Purple House 5 2023-2024

Dear Purple Families,

What a whirlwind of a week! From our field trip to KidZania, where learners explored careers, collaboration, and the value of education, to a truly beautiful Winter Program filled with art, music, and Purple House joy, our hearts are full.

We are endlessly grateful for our wonderful parents who support us in so many ways. Whether you were able to chaperone on our field trip, cheer on your children during their performance, or simply encourage them at home, please know how much I appreciate you. Your partnership makes all the difference.

I am so grateful and honored to be part of this journey with your amazing children. Thank you for sharing them with us each day!

Warmly,
Ms. May Voltz
Purple Fifth Grade Teacher

Our learners had an incredible time at KidZania, stepping into a world designed just for kids, where they “work,” earn, and discover how education opens doors to exciting futures! Throughout the day, children explored a variety of careers, from health-care professionals, and broadcasters, to first responders.

Using the Argument-Driven Inquiry (ADI) model, our young scientists are diving deep into how reflected light behaves through two hands-on investigations. Learners are planning fair tests, gathering evidence, and comparing their observations to refine their claims. This process not only strengthens their understanding of how light travels and reflects, but also builds their skills in scientific reasoning, collaboration, and communicating ideas clearly.

Learners worked together using Teach TCI to deepen their understanding of slavery in America’s past. Through guided lessons, primary sources, and thoughtful discussions, they explored the human stories, injustices, and lasting impact of this period in history. I am proud of how respectfully and responsibly they approached such an important and challenging topic.

With colder weather, winter holidays, and field trips on the calendar, we invite you to prepare now! Visit our Spur store to acquire the necessary gear for the upcoming season, including our super popular RJ-branded hoodie in two beautiful school colors as well as vintage items for a great deal! Our fuzzy blanket is a great gift idea! Place your orders today! rjlpto.org/spurstore Items will be delivered during the week ending December 12th.

Pesky rodents are eating the carrots… will our strawberry plants be on the menu next?

Today we visited our garden with Mrs. Keiko and discovered a few clever critters have been treating it like their personal salad bar! Learners immediately shifted into scientist-and-engineer mode, observing clues, asking questions, and brainstorming ways to protect our precious strawberries. Together, we’re planning to educate others and outsmart the rodents. Stay tuned as our young gardeners are ready to defend their crops!

We will host a Little Library at Lee for future Spurs/Cowboys on January 30. Please share the invitation below. Thank you, Holly, for organizing this fun event.

• Date: December 18
• Setup: 1:15-2pm
• Party: 2-2:45pm
• Cleanup: 2:45-3:00pm

Looking for a way to serve our community? The Lions Club of Coppell helps CISD learners throughout the school year. They have helped Lee learners with glasses, weekend food and daily snacks, school supplies, and gift cards for families in need. Please consider giving to their cause this holiday season. We will have a box in the front vestibule for learners to donate to.

This December, we’d love for families to join us in some joyful math play! Two of our favorite resources, the NRICH and Transum Maths Advent Calendars. Open a brand-new math challenge each day leading up to winter break. These puzzles are clever, engaging, and perfect for building perseverance and mathematical reasoning in a low-pressure, high-fun way.

Learners can cozy up with a cup of cocoa, click on the day’s number, and dive into an interactive puzzle that gets everyone thinking, noticing, wondering, and talking math together. Parents, this is such a sweet way to model a growth mindset and celebrate the beauty of problem-solving right alongside your child.

Grab a comfy blanket, open the next door on the calendar, and enjoy a moment of curiosity and connection with math!

As we move into the holiday season, we know families may have special plans and events, but consistent school attendance remains essential for your child’s learning and growth. Every day of instruction matters, especially during this time of year when key concepts are being introduced and reinforced. We kindly remind families that Texas state law requires students to attend at least 90% of school days to receive credit for the year, and extended absences can impact academic progress. If your family anticipates travel or unavoidable absences, please communicate with us at: leeattendance@coppellisd.com as soon as possible so we can help support your child. Thank you for partnering with us to keep our students learning, connected, and thriving.

DECEMBER TO REMEMBER

PANORAMA WINDOW

Dec 9: 5th Grade TX Wildlife Visit

Dec 10: PTO Luncheon

Dec 11: Winter Choir Performance (2:00 and 6:30) Special treat at this event!

Dec 12: Therapy Dog Day

4/5 Girls Growth & Development (2:00 Music Room)

Fifth-grade designer of learning experiences at RJ Lee Elementary a Net Zero school in Coppell, Texas.

Our Guiding Purpose: We empower learners to positively impact the world by designing learning experiences that promote relationships, risk-taking, and collaboration in a flexible learning environment.

Apple Teacher

HEB Excellence in Education State Finalist 2018

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