The Lion Update

Dear Lion Families,

What a wonderful week at VES! Even with our snow delay on Thursday, we accomplished so much together.

A huge highlight was our Career Day, beautifully facilitated by Ms. Fischer. Thank you to all our presenters who shared their time and expertise with our students! It was incredible to see our students' eyes light up as they learned about different career possibilities and began envisioning their own futures. Events like these help our students see the amazing opportunities available to them.

As we head into Thanksgiving break, I hope each of you takes time to rest, recharge, and focus on what matters most - family and friends. This is a special season to reflect on all we're grateful for, and I am especially grateful for this incredible VES community.

A quick reminder as temperatures continue to drop: please make sure your child comes to school dressed warmly with a heavy coat and appropriate winter gear. We do go outside for recess whenever possible, and we want everyone to stay comfortable and healthy!

Wishing you all a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with warmth, laughter, and good food.

With gratitude,

Dr. Goldsmith

🌟 Grade Level Spotlight: Pre-K

 Exploring Exercise through Creative Curriculum

Our Pre-K students have been busy learning all about health and physical development as part of the Creative Curriculum’s Exercise study. Children rotated through engaging movement stations where they practiced underhand throwing, scooping and catching, dancing with scarves, and playing exercise dice games that encouraged them to try different kinds of movements.

These hands-on activities helped children build important skills such as balance, coordination, and body control, while also supporting social–emotional learning as they took turns, encouraged peers, and celebrated one another’s efforts. Students also strengthened their language skills by sharing and describing their favorite exercises.

The excitement and energy in Pre-K were unmistakable as students discovered new ways to move their bodies and learned how exercise in the snow!

💡 Parent Tip of the Week: 🚻 Encouraging Positive Bathroom Behavior at School

Help your child understand that using the bathroom at school is a responsibility, not just a break from class. Here are a few ways to reinforce respectful behavior:

• Talk about timing: Encourage your child to use the bathroom during appropriate times—like recess or lunch—and not as a way to avoid classwork.
• Respect privacy: Remind them that bathrooms are private spaces. Teach them to respect others' boundaries and avoid playing or socializing in the restroom.
• Keep it clean: Reinforce the importance of flushing, washing hands, and throwing trash away properly. A clean bathroom helps everyone feel comfortable.
• Report concerns: Let your child know it's okay to tell a teacher or staff member if something seems wrong or unsafe in the bathroom.

By setting clear expectations and talking openly, you help your child build good habits that support a respectful school environment. 👍