Jimmy Brown Elementary Newsletter

Last month, we had an attendance challenge. Kindergarten had the best overall attendance for November. They enjoyed a Christmas movie during their lunch on Friday. We will do the same for December 1-December 15. Grade levels with 95% of higher in attendance will have a holiday hat day on December 18. Regular school attendance is crucial for children's academic and social development.

As we look ahead to the new year, we are excited to continue our journey of learning and growth together. We know that 2024 will be another year of amazing achievements for our students, teachers, and families.

Kari Newton

Laura Brooke Smith

12/12

• Candy Cane Orders Due

12/6

• Santa Pictures (orders due 12/4)

12/14

• 5th Grade Caroling
• PTO Meeting 6pm
• Organizing Santa pictures and candy cane orders.

12/19

• Reindeer Games in PE

12/20

• Christmas Parties
• Early Dismissal 1:30pm

12/21-1/3

• Winter Break

1/4

• First Day Back To School

This month, JBE's Parent Teacher Organization will have several fundraisers. Pictures with Santa will be on December 6. They will also be taking candy cane orders this week. They plan on having a Sweet Heart dance in February. PTO will meet on January 4 to make these plans.

K-5 students are getting ready to take part in Reindeer Games on December 19 during activity. They will have different stations. There will be lots of fun!

In library this month, students will listen to Christmas stories and make festive Christmas cards. 3-5 classes will play Christmas Jeopardy.

It is all about Christmas in art this month! Kindergarten will make Santa faces, first graders will make snowman close-ups, and second graders will draw pictures of yummy Christmas cocoa. Third graders will look at artist Charley Harper and will make winter cardinals in his style. Fourth graders will learn a little about stained glass and will make a simulated stained glass painting. Fifth graders will make a snowman huddle.

This month's challenge is to see how many grade levels can reach a 95% attendance rate. These grades will have a holiday hat day December 18.

Regular school attendance is crucial for children's academic and social development. When students are present in class, they have the opportunity to:

• Learn new concepts and skills.
• Practice what they have learned.
• Receive immediate feedback from their teachers.
• Collaborate with their peers.
• Build relationships with their teachers and classmates.

Studies have shown that chronic absenteeism, which is missing more than 10% of school days, can have a significant negative impact on students' academic achievement. Students who miss school frequently are more likely to fall behind in their studies and struggle with standardized tests.

In addition to academic consequences, chronic absenteeism can also lead to social and emotional problems. Students who miss school frequently may have difficulty making friends, feeling connected to their school community, and developing positive self-esteem.