The Lion Update

Hello Vilseck Lions!

I know November has brought some unusual scheduling with several days off, but we truly appreciate everyone who has taken the time to attend parent-teacher conferences. These meetings are so important to us, and we're committed to maintaining close communication with all our families throughout the year.

We're thrilled to share some exciting news—our enrollment numbers continue to grow! We will officially be opening a third PreK classroom starting December 1st. All PreK families have already been notified about this change.

Reminder: Next week we'll be hosting the flu clinic here at VES. Please hold on to your consent forms if you plan to have your child participate.

We hope everyone enjoys a wonderful weekend, and we'll see you back on Tuesday!

As always, thank you for your continued support. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you need anything.

Warmly,
Lindsay Goldsmith

🌟 🗺️🌱 Grade Level Spotlight: Mapping Minds & Digging Into Learning

Fourth Grade: Junior Park Planners on a Mission

Fourth graders recently embarked on a hands-on geography adventure that put their map-reading skills to the test! As part of their unit on the many uses of maps, students took on the role of junior park planners with one goal: to find the ideal location for a new park somewhere in the United States.

To complete their mission, students analyzed four types of maps:

• Population maps to identify areas with enough people to enjoy the park
• Elevation maps to ensure the terrain was suitable
• Precipitation maps to check for favorable weather conditions
• Physical features maps to explore natural landscapes and landforms

Each proposed park location had to meet two specific criteria, and students used data-driven reasoning to make thoughtful decisions. This activity blended geography, critical thinking, and creativity—and showed how maps can shape the way we see and plan the world around us.

Fifth Grade: Idioms in Action & Worms in the Spotlight

Fifth graders have been busy flexing their figurative language muscles with a focus on idioms. To celebrate their learning, students dressed as idioms on October 31st and strutted their stuff in a lively idiom-themed fashion show! From “raining cats and dogs” to “walking on sunshine,” their costumes brought language to life in the most imaginative ways.

In science, fifth graders dove deep into the world of redworms—nature’s tiny decomposers. Throughout the first quarter, students explored the anatomy, life cycle, and behavior of redworms through hands-on activities like journaling and observing worm bins. They discovered how these creatures help break down organic matter, enrich soil, and support healthy ecosystems.

💡 Parent Tip of the Week: Spotting and Soothing Stress Together

Between homework, friendships, after-school activities, and family routines, stress can sneak up on kids — and parents too. The best antidote? Connection.

Try this:
Set aside 10–15 minutes each day for a “no-pressure check-in.” No screens, no agenda  just a chance to talk, play a quick game, or share a snack. Ask open-ended questions like:

• “What was something that made you smile today?”
• “Was there anything that felt tricky or frustrating?”

Even small moments of calm and connection can help kids feel safe, supported, and ready to tackle challenges — both in the classroom and at home.

Bonus tip: Model your own stress strategies. Whether it’s deep breathing, a short walk, or just saying “I need a minute,” showing your child how you manage stress teaches them to do the same.

Have a wonderful weekend, and see you next week!

With Lion Pride,
Dr. Goldsmith