We are off to a great start.  Students have been happily getting to know each other once again.

This week I am reading to each class, grades K-5, one of two books: Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes (K-2) and A Bad Case of Stripes by David Shannon (3-5).  Chrysanthemum is about a little girl who went to school and was teased, until she met, Delphinium Twinkle, music teacher.  The message shared with students is that we each possess the power to influence how others feel about themselves and school.  A Bad Case of Stripes is about a girl who is constantly changing because she was not true to herself.  The message here is that if we worry about what other people think, then we cannot be true to ourselves.

This year we have several new staff (bios and pictures are forthcoming).  We welcome a new partnership, Playworks.  Our resident Playworks coach is Kierra Butler, also known as, Coach B.  Coach B has begun supporting transitions to and from recess.  Organizing recess and ensuring that students have a variety of play options.  In later months, she will work with teachers to carve out time for movement and play during class; and train a cadre of 4th and 5th grade students to serve as Jr. Coaches.

Meet Coach B and other Payne partners at Back to School Night, Wednesday, September 6th at 5:30 in the Auditorium.