A Note From Mr. Graves

Does your youngster prefer to read alone, with family members, or in the company of friends? With these ideas, he can do all three this winter.

Choose themes

Encourage your child to read more by coming up with wintry themes for choosing books. For example, he might name “ice-skating” or “penguins” and pick out a biography of an Olympic skater or an adventure tale set in Antarctica. After he finishes each book, he can write the title on a paper snowflake and tape it to a wall. How many snowflakes can he hang up?

Discuss poetry

On a snowy day—or any day—read winter poetry together. Get a volume like It’s Snowing! It’s Snowing! (Jack Prelutsky) or Winter Bees & Other Poems of the Cold (Joyce Sidman). Boost your youngster’s reading comprehension by talking about the poets’ word choices. Why did Prelutsky write “the air is a silvery blur”? What did Sidman mean by “the sun’s pale wafer”?

Read with friends

Your child can see friends over winter break and practice reading at the same time by forming a book club. They might pick a chapter book to read, then meet to discuss it and enjoy a related snack, craft, or game. Or they could each bring a different picture book and take turns reading aloud. Idea: Suggest that they keep their club going all year long!

We are excited to share an incredible opportunity to support a meaningful project that will benefit all students in our district. This year, the Gahanna-Jefferson Education Foundation (GJEF) Gala will feature a Fund-A-Need initiative focused on purchasing and installing communication boards at each elementary and preschool playground. We encourage you to support the cause in any way you can.

Communication boards are visual tools that use pictures, symbols, and words to help individuals express their thoughts, needs, and emotions. These boards are particularly useful for students with limited verbal communication, those learning English as a second language, and even young children still developing their vocabulary. Communication boards provide students with an inclusive way to connect and engage with peers during play.

While these boards are an invaluable resource for students with specific communication needs, their benefits extend to every child on the playground. Here’s why:

• Promoting Inclusion: Communication boards foster an environment where all students can participate and communicate effectively, regardless of their language or abilities.

• Encouraging Social Interaction: By providing visual cues, these boards help children initiate conversations, make friends, and engage in collaborative play.

• Building Language Skills: For students developing their vocabulary or learning English, communication boards offer a fun and interactive way to learn new words and phrases.

• Supporting Emotional Expression: Playgrounds are not just for physical activity—they are spaces where children express their feelings and build relationships. Communication boards give all students a voice to share their emotions and ideas.

How You Can Help: The GJEF Gala is a fantastic way to bring our community together in support of this initiative. Here’s how you can contribute:

• Register for the FREE Online Silent Auction: Includes entry into the raffle for a $250 Amazon gift card.

• Donate to Fund-A-Need: Every contribution, big or small, brings us closer to making these communication boards a reality.

• Spread the Word: Share this initiative with family and friends who may also be interested in supporting our schools.

Together, we can make a lasting impact by creating inclusive spaces where every child feels seen, heard, and valued. Thank you for your ongoing support of our students and schools. We hope to see you at the Gala on February 22, 2025!

GJPS Families,

Please be the biggest cheerleader for GJPS by volunteering for the 2025 Biggest Pep Rally Ever!

Please click on the following link, review available slots and sign up today! Volunteer Sign Up

Thank you for being involved! Go Lions!

• February 11: -PTA Meeting 7:00 P.M.
• February 14: Chuck E. Cheese Fundraiser 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. (see above flyer)
• February 14: Staff Professional Development Day (no school)
• February 17: President's Day (no school)
• February 20: Parent Teacher Conference Night
• February 25: Parent Teacher Conference Night