The Lion Update

Dear VES Families,

What an incredible final week before winter break! Your school spirit was absolutely wonderful to see—and our teachers took it to the next level with their "underground" spirit, especially when they dressed up like students. The joy and laughter throughout the building was contagious!

Our Kindergarten performance was the highlight of the week. It was absolutely adorable and brought our entire VES Lions community together in the best way possible. The hot cocoa provided by Ms. Fischer and Student Council was truly the cherry on top of a memorable week.

I know we've had quite a few staff members and students battling illness recently, and we hope everyone feels better very soon. Please take care of yourselves and each other.

As we head into the break, I want to express my deepest appreciation for this community and your partnership. Your support of our school and your children's learning means everything to us.

Looking Ahead: When we return in the new year, our Specials schedule will be changing. This adjustment is what's best for both our students and staff, and I'll share the new schedule details in my weekly email.

We were also honored to welcome special visitors this week—Dr. Bahaney (District Director for Student Excellence), Mr. Martin (District Superintendent), and Dr. Ramaglia (Community Superintendent). I loved the opportunity to share all the great things happening at VES with our senior leadership team.

As you enjoy this holiday season, I hope you take time to rest and connect with family and friends. These moments together remind us of what truly matters—the time we spend with those we love is precious.

Thank you for an amazing 2025. See you in the new year!

With gratitude,
Dr. Goldsmith

🌟 Grade Level Spotlight: Second Grade: 

Penguins, Presents, and Problem-Solving

Our second graders have been busy wrapping up their Benchmark Unit 3 on habitats. Through reading, researching, and writing, they’ve explored fascinating non-fiction topics—most notably the life of the Emperor Penguin. Their curiosity and hard work have truly brought these lessons to life!
🎁 Speaking of “wrapping up,” students also took part in a meaningful community project: wrapping gifts for an orphanage adopted by the local Red Cross and chapel. This activity beautifully ties into the Second Grade Social Studies curriculum, which teaches that a community is where people live, work, play, and solve problems together. What a wonderful example of our students putting those lessons into action!
🔬 In Science, second graders have been investigating solids, diving into hands-on explorations that spark questions and deepen their understanding of the world around them.
We are so proud of their efforts—in the classroom and beyond—as they learn not only academic skills but also the importance of compassion and community.

💡  Parent Tip of the Week: 🌟 Keep Routines Light but Consistent

As Winter Break nears, excitement is high and schedules can get busy. A helpful way to support your child is to maintain a light version of their daily routine. Keeping consistent bedtimes, reading together for a few minutes each day, or practicing simple math facts during downtime helps children transition smoothly back to school after the holidays.

Balance is key—mix in plenty of fun family traditions, outdoor play, and rest. Even small moments of structure alongside the joy of the season will help your child feel secure, energized, and ready to return to learning in January.