Hello Cornwall School families,

Another big thank you to the Foley family and to FOCS for donating the picnic tables in front of the school! They are replacing some well worn tables and will definitely get a lot of use.

Wishing everyone a wonderful break,

Warmly,

Heather

The school year has started off with a bang in music class here at Cornwall School! The 4th and 5th grade classes have been working on Bucket Drumming and rhythm compositions. Our younger grades have been exploring movement, hand instruments, singing in tune and working their way towards singing solo!

On Wednesday's after school we started Pop Choir! This chorus consists of 3rd through 5th graders. Some of the music we are currently working on is What Do I Know? by Ed Sheeren, Price Tag by Jessie B, the state song These Green Hills and many more.

Starting after Thanksgiving break we will dive into practicing our musical repertoire, stage presence, and audience skills for our upcoming winter concert in January to be performed on the high school stage.

Through the ACSD curriculum grant the music programs of Bridport, Cornwall and Shoreham Elementary schools have received 9 African drums, two Shakeres, and two Agogo bells. Mrs. Cunningham is extremely excited to have each school experience a drum circle, learn about music from Africa and have the opportunity to expand our concert repertoire.

Cornwall School Families - we're getting ready for our BIG BOOK GIVEAWAY before winter break.

For the last library class before winter break, kids will have a chance to pick a few books to keep. If you have new or gently used books you'd like to donate to the giveaway, please send them into school by December 15th.

Thanks for making this special tradition a success!

Hello Cornwall Families, Winter Craft Day 2023 is just around the corner, on Friday, December 15th! This is the time for you crafty people (or not so crafty, but brave enough to give it a whirl!) to shine!

We will, once again, transform the multi-purpose room into a creative workshop filled with fun projects for students to make and enjoy, or spread the joy even further by gifting the crafts to others.

We need you!

If you'd like to offer a craft station, on your own or with a buddy, come up with a craft for children to make. It is important to choose a craft that is accessible to kindergartners through fifth graders, and not explicitly holiday themed. Some examples we have done in the past include wood crafts, hot cocoa packets, bath salts, water globes, note cards, magnets, pet treat bags with treats, and so much more! Keep in mind that students will have approximately 40 minutes to make several crafts so the project should be one that takes no longer than 5-10 minutes. The first 12 volunteers to reach out to me with a craft plan get themselves a coveted table at the 2023 Winter Craft Fair!

Like to craft, but your forte is more with intricate paper snowflakes and decor than managing dozens of kids with scissors and glue guns? Perhaps you'd like to plan some quick-to-assemble-and-deploy decorations for the day (no holiday themed decor, please). The wrapping station is also staffed by volunteers, and is a fun way to be in the midst of the action without the need for a lot of pre-planning!

This is an all day event (from the start to end of the school day), but if you only have a few hours to offer, we may be able to team you up with others who can keep the crafting going! If you aren't available to come on that day perhaps you wish to donate wrapping or crafting supplies?

Please reach out with any questions or thoughts on collaboration. We can pair you with another crafty adult, offer suggestions on possible craft ideas, and reimburse you for materials (up to a maximum of $40).

This is a wonderful event that is as much fun for the volunteers as it is for the kids!

Please let me know if you'd like to be included and what I can do to get you started.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Renee Mosier

renee.mosier@gmail.com

304-479-3391

• 11/17/23 Conference Window closes
• 11/20-11/24/23 NO SCHOOL - Thanksgiving Break
• 12/6/23 Early Release Day, school dismisses at 1:05pm
• 12/15/23 Winter Crafts Day

Sometimes there are changes to the school menu. You can always click here to find the latest one.

Hello Cornwall School families,

A big thank you to families and to FOCS for donating plants to the school. We have received some beautiful large ferns, christmas cactus, philodendrens and other beautiful plants that somebody more knowledgeable about plants than I am could probably identify. All the plants have found homes around the building, they improve the appearance of spaces, and help make the spaces cozy.

Thank you again.

Warmly,

Heather

This fall in Library Media Class all students have been learning library routines, selecting books for research and interest, and building our community of readers. K-2 library media class focuses on read-alouds right now and we've read some really great stories this year that have helped us to hone our observational skills and to make predictions about what might happen next. 3rd - 5th grade students started the year exploring the library with codes, clues, and mini escape room challenges. They have just begun some focused learning around research-- we're thinking about using information in our writing, both through direct quotation and through paraphrasing. This learning has been connected to the units of study in the classroom and provides an academic bridge between the classroom and the library.

Once again Cornwall School and Atria Collective, formerly known as WomenSafe, are partnering to provide sexual abuse prevention programming to students, also known as ACT 1 programming.

Prevention Programming is a requirement in the State of Vermont.

The program will begin in November 2023 and continue for a total of 5 sessions per class. This prevention program provides a comprehensive approach that:

• Teaches children developmentally appropriate skills that can protect them from sexual abuse and/or supports them to go to adults if they have experienced sexual abuse and

• Offers parents, educators, caregivers and community members information and tools that supports the healthy sexual development of children and protects them from sexual abuse.

Classroom programming uses a fun, multi-week, health-based curriculum for elementary ages that supports the development of healthy sexuality, focuses on both victimization and perpetrator prevention and emphasizes adults’ responsibility for taking safe care of children while addressing the barriers for children who experience sexual abuse.

The program’s messages promote a positive approach to:

o Bodies,

o Caring for people who are younger, elder or have disabilities, before they’re 18

o Feelings and understanding other people’s feelings

o Friendships/relationships

o Communication

o Problem solving when a relationship, a secret or touching is confusing

If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Annie Burmeister at 802-388-9180, Tammie Johnson at tammiejohnson@acsdvt.org or Heather Raabe at 802-462-2463.

Please join us at the Cornwall Townhall upstairs theater on Thursday November 16th at 3:45 pm for our presentation of: The Gloupies!

“Doors Open” at 3:40pm and the performance starts at 3:45pm. Please wait in the downstairs lobby if you arrive before 3:40pm. Friends & family of the performers are all invited and welcome. The performance will last about 15-20 minutes.

Performers do not need to wear anything special but should have shoes they can move around comfortably in (so no flip flops, crocs, or heavy winter boots)

If any questions come up feel free to email me: Andrew@interactcreative.org.

Looking forward to it – Hope to see you there!

Andrew

Hello Cornwall Families, Winter Craft Day 2023 is just around the corner, on Friday, December 15th! This is the time for you crafty people (or not so crafty, but brave enough to give it a whirl!) to shine!

We will, once again, transform the multi-purpose room into a creative workshop filled with fun projects for students to make and enjoy, or spread the joy even further by gifting the crafts to others.

We need you!

If you'd like to offer a craft station, on your own or with a buddy, come up with a craft for children to make. It is important to choose a craft that is accessible to kindergartners through fifth graders, and not explicitly holiday themed. Some examples we have done in the past include wood crafts, hot cocoa packets, bath salts, water globes, note cards, magnets, pet treat bags with treats, and so much more! Keep in mind that students will have approximately 40 minutes to make several crafts so the project should be one that takes no longer than 5-10 minutes. The first 12 volunteers to reach out to me with a craft plan get themselves a coveted table at the 2023 Winter Craft Fair!

Like to craft, but your forte is more with intricate paper snowflakes and decor than managing dozens of kids with scissors and glue guns? Perhaps you'd like to plan some quick-to-assemble-and-deploy decorations for the day (no holiday themed decor, please). The wrapping station is also staffed by volunteers, and is a fun way to be in the midst of the action without the need for a lot of pre-planning!

This is an all day event (from the start to end of the school day), but if you only have a few hours to offer, we may be able to team you up with others who can keep the crafting going! If you aren't available to come on that day perhaps you wish to donate wrapping or crafting supplies?

Please reach out with any questions or thoughts on collaboration. We can pair you with another crafty adult, offer suggestions on possible craft ideas, and reimburse you for materials (up to a maximum of $40).

This is a wonderful event that is as much fun for the volunteers as it is for the kids!

Please let me know if you'd like to be included and what I can do to get you started.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Renee Mosier

renee.mosier@gmail.com

304-479-3391

• 11/16/23 3:45pm StoryProv Presentation at Town Hall
• 11/17/23 Conference Window closes
• 11/20-11/24/23 NO SCHOOL - Thanksgiving Break
• 12/6/23 Early Release Day, school dismisses at 1:05pm
• 12/15/23 Winter Crafts Day

Sometimes there are changes to the school menu. You can always click here to find the latest one.

Hello Cornwall School families,

Happy Friday! Wishing everyone a great weekend.

Warmly,

Heather

During this month in Physical Education the students developed the skill of throwing and catching. Through fun games like battleship, trash the neighbors yard, and hula hut castle the students had the chance to work on their form and accuracy while throwing. To develop the skill of catching we had the opportunity to play hero and villain freeze tag, boom city and ring collector. Ask your student which game was their favorite!

Conferences will be held through November 17, with many teachers scheduling on November 3, a day allocated for that purpose..

The goal of these conferences is to talk about how your student is doing in classes so far this school year and to talk about next steps in their learning. Please check in with the teacher or with me if you have any questions.

Mrs. Cunningham will be offering a new chorus option after school on Wednesdays. In Pop Choir students will be able to work with Mrs. Cunningham to sing songs selected from today's popular music and develop their singing skills. The Pop Choir will be performing in our Winter Concert with possibility for more performing opportunities. Pop Choir is available for 3rd through 5th grade on Wednesday afternoons. Come join in the fun!

Grades 3 - 5

Wednesdays, November 1 - January 17

Normal Days: Dismissal - 4:00 PM

Early Release Days (11/8 and 12/6): Dismissal - 2:15 PM

Cornwall Town Hall

Performance on January 18th

Registration link:

https://www.jotform.com/232556188081056

Please register by October 30, 2023

WHO WE ARE:

The Addison Central Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) is an organization led by parents (defined broadly) that focuses on improving the education and experiences of students with special needs and disabilities in the Addison Central School District (ACSD). (Learn more at: www.AddisonCentralSEPAC.org)

WHAT WE DO:

• Support families through information, events, and community.

• Collect community input and help district leaders understand the concerns of families and students.

• Collaborate with ACSD to improve district policies and practices.

STAY IN THE KNOW!

Don’t miss out on SEPAC resources and events! Sign up for updates at the link below.

See the flyer below for information!

In addition, non-perishable food donations for the CVOEO food shelf in Middlebury will be collected.

• 11/3/23 NO SCHOOL - Conference Day
• 11/8/23 Early Release Day. School dismisses at 1:05pm.
• 11/17/23 Conference Window closes
• 11/20-11/24/23 NO SCHOOL - Thanksgiving Break

Sometimes there are changes to the school menu. You can always click here to find the latest one.

Hello Cornwall School families,

We had a beautiful day for Harvest Fest last Friday! Thank you to all of the parents and FOCS who helped make that happen! And please see some pictures from the afternoon below.

Also below you will find some information about community events, after school activities, some school updates and a request for recipes.

Have a great weekend,

Heather

We are making another CORNWALL COMMUNITY COOKBOOK!

Our goal is for all Cornwall students, teachers and staff to contribute their favorite recipe.

Please follow this link https://forms.gle/VMz8N6QK5C69drKB9 to submit your recipe(s).

The deadline for submission is Oct. 27. Please send your recipes to us!

The fourth and fifth graders have completed their identity books. The books highlight important people, places, experiences and ideas in the students' lives.

This week, 4-Winds instructors led a lesson on rotting logs. We were able to dig into some logs in and out of the classroom to look closely at what was inside.

The Golden Dome books were released this week at the Cornwall School Library. Many students have set personal reading goals and are hoping to read at least five.

This week we have begun a research project on European explorers. Pairs of students are looking closely at their chosen explorer and will present their research to the class.

The clock model has been the tool this week to better understand fractions. Next week, we will use money as a model, allowing us to consider fractions with a different set of denominators.

Conferences will be held through November 17, with many teachers scheduling on November 3, a day allocated for that purpose..

The goal of these conferences is to talk about how your student is doing in classes so far this school year and to talk about next steps in their learning. Please check in with the teacher or with me if you have any questions.

The CVFD Open House scheduled for Sunday, Oct 22 has been cancelled due to weather!

Mrs. Cunningham will be offering a new chorus option after school on Wednesdays. In Pop Choir students will be able to work with Mrs. Cunningham to sing songs selected from today's popular music and develop their singing skills. The Pop Choir will be performing in our Winter Concert with possibility for more performing opportunities. Pop Choir is available for 3rd through 5th grade on Wednesday afternoons. Come join in the fun!

Grades 3 - 5

Wednesdays, November 1 - January 17

Normal Days: Dismissal - 4:00 PM

Early Release Days (11/8 and 12/6): Dismissal - 2:15 PM

Cornwall Town Hall

Performance on January 18th

Registration link:

https://www.jotform.com/232556188081056

Please register by October 30, 2023

See the flyer below for information!

In addition, non-perishable food donations for the CVOEO food shelf in Middlebury will be collected.

• 11/3/23 NO SCHOOL - Conference Day
• 11/8/23 Early Release Day. School dismisses at 1:05pm.
• 11/17/23 Conference Window closes
• 11/20-11/24/23 NO SCHOOL - Thanksgiving Break

Sometimes there are changes to the school menu. You can always click here to find the latest one.

Hello Cornwall School families,

Later today, we will celebrate Harvest Fest. Thank you to FOCS for the planning and organizing and thank you to all the volunteers for the work you put in to help make it a fun day! It looks like we'll have great fall weather, and I'm hoping to have photos to include in next week's newsletter.

Have a great weekend,

Heather

We are making another CORNWALL COMMUNITY COOKBOOK!

Our goal is for all Cornwall students, teachers and staff to contribute their favorite recipe.

Please follow this link https://forms.gle/VMz8N6QK5C69drKB9 to submit your recipe(s).

The deadline for submission is Oct. 27. Please send your recipes to us!

Our 4th & 5th grades are busy finishing up our first I.B unit, “Who We Are” and beginning our next unit, “Where We Are in Place & Time.” We are conducting a carrot experiment for the month of October Number Corner and we are just finishing up our egg experiments about matter, diffusion and osmosis. In this next unit we will be looking at explorers and change makers. Last Friday we met with our first grade buddy classrooms and read together. Here are some pictures of our time together on that day.

You may have already heard from teachers regarding parent-teacher conferences. If not, you will hear from them this next week to schedule a time for a fall conference.

Conferences will be held through November 17, with many teachers scheduling on November 3.

The purpose of these conferences is to talk about how your student is doing in classes so far this school year and to talk about next steps in their learning. Please check in with the teacher or with me if you have any questions.

Cornwall School parent and active FOCS member, Mike Magluilo, is releasing his first novel!!

Please join Mike, his family, and the greater community at A Reason to Run Launch Party on Oct 14th from 3:30-5:30pm at the Middlebury Marquis.

• 11/3/23 NO SCHOOL - Conference Day
• 11/8/23 Early Release Day. School dismisses at 1:05pm.
• 11/17/23 Conference Window closes
• 11/20-11/24/23 NO SCHOOL - Thanksgiving Break

Sometimes there are changes to the school menu. You can always click here to find the latest one.

Hello Cornwall School families,

At the end of every newsletter is a section titled "Important Dates". It simply lists upcoming events to be aware of. Especially since we don't have school on Monday, I am also going to highlight those important dates here, but please remember to check that section of the newsletter each week!

• 10/9/23 NO SCHOOL, Indigenous Peoples' Day
• 10/11/23 Picture Day
• 10/11/23 American Flatbread Benefit Bake for Cornwall School (see flyer below)
• 10/13/23 Harvest Fest

Have a great weekend and enjoy the beautiful fall colors!

Heather

CORNWALL COMMUNITY COOKBOOK - Our goal is for all Cornwall students, teachers and staff to contribute their favorite recipe. Please follow this link https://forms.gle/VMz8N6QK5C69drKB9

The deadline for submission is Oct. 27 (and right now we sadly only have 2 recipes). Please send your recipes to us!

Third grade has been traveling to Middlebury College on Wednesday to visit the Knoll and Bi Hall. We have been learning about many things, including the geology of our region. Last week we focused on sedimentary rock and the fossils you can find in it. We learned that there are two types of sedimentary rock: clastic - made of minerals; and biogenic - made from organic material like shells. At the garden we also learned about the two main categories of trees - conifers and deciduous trees - and what makes each type unique.

FOCS has been hard at work preparing for our Harvest Fest celebration scheduled for Friday, Oct. 13 in the afternoon. It is a fun event that students and teachers look forward to each year.

I hear there will be pumpkins, facepainting, hay rides, nature crafts, animals, and more!

Hi Cornwall Families,

Ms. Harvey will begin offering a "Magic: The Gathering" afterschool club for students in grades 3 - 5 beginning next Friday, October 13th and continuing through Friday, December 15th. The class will meet in Ms. Harvey's 3rd Grade classroom from 2:50 - 4:00 PM.

Magic is a great strategy card game where players battle each other with creatures and spells. Each player has a deck of cards they must get to know well so they can best outwit their opponent. New players are welcome, and will be provided with a card deck. (Strong reading skills are helpful but not required.) Returning players are also welcome and will be part of a tournament!

Register here: https://form.jotform.com/232754200072041

Chris Kramer

FOCS Afterschool Coordinator

Middlebury Community Music Center and Friends of the Cornwall School are excited to offer the after school program, Ghanaian drumming, dancing and singing. Each week, Cornwall School students will gather in the upstairs studio at the Cornwall Town Hall and learn traditional Ghanaian music, dance and drumming, while getting the chance to try traditional percussion instruments from Ghana. The session will culminate in a short presentation for families and guests. No experience required, just an enthusiasm for and interest in dancing, drumming and singing. Weekly snacks will be provided. Register today for this exciting opportunity!

Registration link:

https://mcmcvt.asapconnected.com/?org=5241#CourseID=267268

Tuesdays, October 3 - December 19

3:00 - 4:05 PM

Grades K - 5

Cornwall Town Hall

Registration Fee: $55

Hi Cornwall Families,

The deadline for signing up for Tuesday afterschool Ghanaian drumming and dancing has been extended. The class will now start next Tuesday, October 10th.

Ghanaian Drumming and Dancing

Tuesdays, October 10 - December 19

Grades K - 5

3:00 - 4:05 PM

Cornwall Town Hall (a parent volunteer will walk the students over, and we are working on having students take the bus)

Registration Fee: $50

Register Here: https://mcmcvt.asapconnected.com/?org=5241#CourseID=267268

Cornwall School parent and active FOCS member, Mike Magluilo, is releasing his first novel!!

Please join Mike, his family, and the greater community at A Reason to Run Launch Party on Oct 14th from 3:30-5:30pm at the Middlebury Marquis.

CONGRATULATIONS MIKE!

• 10/9/23 NO SCHOOL, Indigenous Peoples' Day
• 10/11/23 Picture Day
• 10/11/23 American Flatbread Benefit Bake for Cornwall School (see flyer above)
• 10/13/23 Harvest Fest

Sometimes there are changes to the school menu. You can always click here to find the latest one.

Hello Cornwall School families,

There is a LOT of info below! Please read on regarding safety at dismissal, PE, an FOCS Dahlia fundraiser, an after school music opportunity, Cornwall Fridays, and more!

Have a great weekend,

Heather

Please note that for safety reasons, students who are being picked up at the end of the day will not be dismissed until after the school buses have left. Below is an excerpt from our handbook:

Dismissal

The school day ends at 2:50pm. Buses depart promptly at 2:55pm. Parents who pick up their children should plan to be at school at 2:50pm.

Buses:

• Students riding the bus home will be dismissed to the bus by their classroom teacher

• When all bus riders are safely on the bus and buses have left school property, we will begin dismissing all other students

• The bus will leave school by 2:55pm

Pick-Up:

• After the buses have left the property, all students departing by car will wait for their ride with their teacher and class. Teachers will dismiss students to their parent/guardian only once the parent/guardian is on the grass or the parent’s car has moved forward in the queue .

During this month of PE our students have been practicing expectations, routines and teamwork. As we are building our PE community we also completed our skills unit of kicking. During this unit students had the chance to practice foot skills in stations and mini soccer games. We look forward to continuing to build a fun and safe community in PE.

Miss T

Cornwall parent Stephanie Powers is excited to create garden designs with her stunning dahlias. Look for them next week at a pop-up flower tent in front of Cornwall School.

The gift of flowers can be such a delightful way to show you care or are thinking of someone. Teachers, administrators, friends etc...or simply for your own kitchen, you deserve it!

Middlebury Community Music Center and Friends of the Cornwall School are excited to offer the after school program, Ghanaian drumming, dancing and singing. Each week, Cornwall School students will gather in the upstairs studio at the Cornwall Town Hall and learn traditional Ghanaian music, dance and drumming, while getting the chance to try traditional percussion instruments from Ghana. The session will culminate in a short presentation for families and guests. No experience required, just an enthusiasm for and interest in dancing, drumming and singing. Weekly snacks will be provided. Register today for this exciting opportunity!

Registration link:

https://mcmcvt.asapconnected.com/?org=5241#CourseID=267268

Tuesdays, October 3 - December 19

3:00 - 4:05 PM

Grades K - 5

Cornwall Town Hall

Registration Fee: $55

On Fridays, students and staff are encouraged to wear Cornwall related clothing. It could be a Cornwall School t-shirt, it could be the school colors of blue and green, or it could be town of Cornwall clothing.

Hi Cornwall families,

I want to take a moment to introduce Friends of Cornwall School (FOCS) and let you know a little about who we are and what we do. I will do my best to keep it short and sweet as I know we all get bombarded with information!

FOCS is a parent/community group that focuses on supporting the students, teachers and staff at Cornwall School. We do this through events, financial support through fundraising, and volunteering our time.

EVENTS:

- FOCS MEETINGS are the 1st Thursday of every month from 8-9am in the school’s library. Meeting reminders and the agenda will be posted in Mrs. Raabe’s weekly email the Friday before every meeting.

- HARVEST FESTIVAL - Friday, Oct 13 in the afternoon. Parents run stations that focus on the harvest and fall crafts. We often have a hay ride, cider press, pumpkin decorating, and more! Details and sign-up will be distributed shortly.

- WINTER CRAFTS - Friday, Dec 15, all day. Parents run craft stations throughout the multi-purpose room.

- MOVIE NIGHT - Friday night in March (date TBD). Kids wear their jammies and bring their sleeping bags/blankets for a movie and snacks in the multi-purpose room

- TEACHER AND STAFF APPRECIATION WEEK - May 6-10. Notes of appreciation encouraged by all students, followed by a teacher/staff lunch

- MUDDY BUDDY CHALLENGE - Friday, May 31 in the afternoon. Parents run obstacle stations and kids work in teams to complete them. Also a fundraiser.

- ALL OUT DAY - June (date depends on last day of school). Kids, teachers and staff spend the day at a local State Park

FUNDRAISING: There are a few fundraising events coming up. We’ll have more as the year progresses.

- DAHLIA BOUQUETS FOR SALE - Oct 2-6th. Thanks to Stephanie Powers and her gorgeous blooms! Dahlia bouquets will be for sale outside of the school from drop off to pick up!

- FLATBREAD BENEFIT BAKE - Oct 11, 5-9pm (see flier below)

- CORNWALL COMMUNITY COOKBOOK - Our goal is for all Cornwall students, teachers and staff to contribute their favorite recipe. Please follow this link https://forms.gle/VMz8N6QK5C69drKB9

We’re excited about a wonderful year at Cornwall School. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have. We’re here for you!

Have a wonderful day!

Molly Daly and FOCS

• 10/4/23 Early release day. School is dismissed at 1:05pm
• 10/5/23 8am FOCS meeting in library
• 10/9/23 NO SCHOOL, Indigenous Peoples' Day
• 10/11/23 Picture Day
• 10/13/23 Harvest Fest

Sometimes there are changes to the school menu. You can always click here to find the latest one.

Hello Cornwall School families,

I hope you are all able to enjoy this beautiful fall weather! Please read below for our most recent information and updates.

Have a great weekend,

Heather

Second grade has been focused on learning the many different things that make each of us Who We Are! We have made "Beetle Glyphs" in Math as one way to represent "Who We Are." We are continuing to have conversations about why making decisions for ourselves is important. An activity that everyone has enjoyed as we continue to talk about Who We Are is "4-Corners". This is an activity where students are able to take turns saying something they like and then their classmates move to a designated corner to show their like/dislike to the shared idea.

We have been working on building our stamina for independent reading and writing with a goal of 20 minutes for both exercises! Our class has enjoyed learning and using math materials to create patterns, measure items in the classroom and create shapes of all sizes! We are beginning to learn about all the seasons we get to experience in Vermont through reading new stories!

We are continuing to think a lot about what it means to be a community and why listening to each other, explaining our ideas and helping others when they make a mistake are all important parts of being a strong learning community.

We have some exciting news to share! The American Heart Association has announced that Cornwall School has received the Heart of Gold Award! They stated, “We value your commitment to your students and school community for continuing this lifesaving work. You are the reason the American Heart Association continues to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.”

I also want to say thank you to everyone who contributed to our Kids Heart Challenge, it is greatly appreciated by all, it truly does make a difference. We have earned this award by participating in the kids heart challenge and by helping raise money for their organization.

Best,

Sierra Thornton (Miss T)

Physical Education Teacher

Hi Cornwall families,

First and foremost, I want to say a huge THANK YOU to all of the families who came to the Back To School Potluck. The food was yummy, the company was wonderful, and despite the down pour the spirits were high. I’d like to give a special THANK YOU to EJ Bartlett and Kristen & Greg Waggoner for organizing the event for FOCS.

I want to take a moment to introduce Friends of Cornwall School (FOCS) and let you know a little about who we are and what we do. I will do my best to keep it short and sweet as I know we all get bombarded with information!

FOCS is a parent/community group that focuses on supporting the students, teachers and staff at Cornwall School. We do this through events, financial support through fundraising, and volunteering our time.

EVENTS:

- FOCS MEETINGS are the 1st Thursday of every month from 8-9am in the school’s library. Meeting reminders and the agenda will be posted in Mrs. Raabe’s weekly email the Friday before every meeting.

- HARVEST FESTIVAL - Friday, Oct 13 in the afternoon. Parents run stations that focus on the harvest and fall crafts. We often have a hay ride, cider press, pumpkin decorating, and more! Details and sign-up will be distributed shortly.

- WINTER CRAFTS - Friday, Dec 15, all day. Parents run craft stations throughout the multi-purpose room.

- MOVIE NIGHT - Friday night in March (date TBD). Kids wear their jammies and bring their sleeping bags/blankets for a movie and snacks in the multi-purpose room

- TEACHER AND STAFF APPRECIATION WEEK - May 6-10. Notes of appreciation encouraged by all students, followed by a teacher/staff lunch

- MUDDY BUDDY CHALLENGE - Friday, May 31 in the afternoon. Parents run obstacle stations and kids work in teams to complete them. Also a fundraiser.

- ALL OUT DAY - June (date depends on last day of school). Kids, teachers and staff spend the day at a local State Park

FUNDRAISING: There are a few fundraising events coming up. We’ll have more as the year progresses -

- DAHLIA BOUQUETS FOR SALE - Oct 2-6th. Thanks to Stephanie Powers and her gorgeous blooms! Dahlia bouquets will be for sale outside of the school from drop off to pick up!

- FLATBREAD BENEFIT BAKE - Oct 11, 5-9pm. SEE FLIER ATTACHED

- CORNWALL COMMUNITY COOKBOOK - Our goal is for all Cornwall students, teachers and staff to contribute their favorite recipe. Please follow this link https://forms.gle/VMz8N6QK5C69drKB9

We’re excited about a wonderful year at Cornwall School. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have. We’re here for you!

Have a wonderful day!

Molly Daly and FOCS

As stated in the handbook regarding attendance and truancy,

• 10/4/23 Early release day. School is dismissed at 1:05pm
• 10/9/23 NO SCHOOL, Indigenous Peoples' Day
• 10/11/23 Picture Day
• 10/13/23 Harvest Fest (more info to come in October)

Sometimes there are changes to the school menu. You can always click here to find the latest one.

Hello Cornwall School families,

We are about to complete our first 5 day school week of the school year! Students have been practicing routines and learning new routines each day as they are becoming familiar with their schedules, their learning community, and expectations in different spaces around the building.

Thank you to FOCS for organizing our Potluck dinner, and thank you to teachers and families for participating in Back-to-School Night after dinner. We weathered the rain and ended up with a beautiful evening!

At the end of each week, we participate in some school-wide community building. Later today, we will hold our first All School Meeting (ASM) of the school year. We will hold ASMs every other Friday, with buddy classes meeting together on the alternate Fridays.

Have a great weekend,

Heather

First graders are working hard to learn about ourselves, learn about our classmates, and build a peaceful community. Our "Sharing the Planet" unit has us focusing on the strengths that each person brings to a group. We are reading books about being an individual, and finding connections as we share some favorites. Also, the class is deep in the slow, thoughtful process of building classroom rules.

This first grade class is excited to reach new heights in reading, writing, and mathematizing! We are laying the foundation by practicing key routines. Students are building stamina and independence for reading and writing, practicing letter sounds and formation, and thinking carefully about groups of 2, 5, and 10. We celebrate our hard work with silly songs and fun cheers!

A favorite activity so far this year is building trains with dominoes or pattern blocks. To inspire us, we watch videos of impressive domino creations at lunch time. We talk about how even the professionals knock down their lines by accident, but then they keep going!

The Cornwall School Directory is now available.

If you would like a copy of the directory, you may email Laurie at lballantine@acsdvt.org and let her know if you would prefer an electronic or paper copy.

We're excited to let you know that Andrew Ritter, who taught afterschool acting last year, is returning this fall! He'll be teaching a K-1 class on Tuesdays and a Grades 2 - 5 class on Thursdays.

We're exploring Tuesday/Thursday options to cover the opposite grades, but for now we wanted to get this out to you. See class descriptions and sign-up links below!

-Chris Kramer

FOCS Afterschool Coordinator

STORYPROV (Grades K-1)
Tuesdays, 3:00 - 4:05 PM

September 26 - November 14

Cornwall Town Hall (a volunteer will walk the kids over)
This theater based class combines the fields of improvisation for the stage with stories and storytelling. Students will engage in a variety of interactive games & exercises while also learning and reinforcing the fundamental aspects of creating a story. Using real stories as inspiration, the ensemble will ultimately learn how to make up a collaborative story on the spot and may give an informal presentation on the last day of class.

Sign Up Here:
https://form.jotform.com/232543912133146

STORYPROV II (Grades 2-5)

Thursdays, 3:00 - 4:05 PM

September 28 - November 16

Cornwall Town Hall (a volunteer will walk the kids over)

This theater based class combines the fields of improvisation for the stage with stories and storytelling. Students will engage in a variety of interactive games & exercises while also learning and reinforcing the fundamental aspects of creating a story. The students will also be introduced to a variety of theatrical concepts like staging, voice, give and take of focus, character creation and listening. Using real stories as inspiration, the ensemble will ultimately learn how to make up a collaborative story on the spot and may give an informal presentation on the last day of class.

Sign Up Here:
https://form.jotform.com/232485136862057

When: Sep 17, 2023, 12 to 3 PM

The Cornwall Historical Society and the DAR invite you to visit five historic buildings from 11AM – 3PM, each featuring exhibits celebrating Cornwall's vibrant history and community.

At 12:30 PM Steve Payne will present a program about the Town's early families in the beautiful DAR building at the junction of RTS 30 & 74.

At 1:15PM, in the Cornwall Congregational Church, Anne Collins will be speaking about Cornwall's cemeteries, including updates on the new cemetery mapping project, and veterans of the Revolutionary & Civil Wars.

And at 2:15 archivist Danielle Rougeau will share a presentation on the Merino sheep era at the historic Glen Dale sheep barn at 1455 Cider Mill Rd.

The Blacksmith Shop at 1488 VT RT 30 will be open from Noon to 3 with parking available at Windfall Orchard across the street.

In addition, a demonstration of wool spinning will be held at the Glen Dale Barn and works of art – featuring many local artists – will be on display at the Town Hall in addition to information about our 'Boot Strap School".

• 10/4/23 Early release day. School is dismissed at 1:05pm
• 10/9/23 NO SCHOOL, Indigenous Peoples' Day
• 10/13/23 Harvest Fest (more info to come in October)

Sometimes there are changes to the school menu. You can always click here to find the latest one.

Hello Cornwall School families,

What a hot week it's been! As I've said to some parents and teachers, students have done a really great job of taking care of each other and themselves this week. They've adjusted recess play, taken water breaks, and checked on each other. We all know that being uncomfortable can also affect our mood, and students have also done a great job of acknowledging how they felt while still participating in learning and activities.

Have a great weekend!

Warmly,

Heather

Friends of Cornwall School (FOCS) Invites You and Your Family to Back-to-School Potluck & Information Night on Wednesday, September 13, from 5:15-7:30 p.m.

Please join us in welcoming the 2023-24 school year with our annual family potluck! It’s a wonderful way to reconnect with old friends, meet our new Cornwall School families and staff, and learn more about Friends of Cornwall School (FOCS).

Teachers will open their classrooms for Back-to-School Night after dinner. There will be three opportunities to meet with your students’ teachers, so if you have more than one child, you will be able to hear from multiple teachers.

​​Kids can stay out on the playground while parents head inside to learn more.

We are asking for parent volunteers to supervise the playground while parents rotate into the classroom. You can sign up here, and thank you, parents, for making this possible!

If you can help set up or have any questions, please get in touch with the Back-to-School committee.

EJ Bartlett ebartlett@middlebury.edu

Kristen Waggoner kristenadahlgren@gmail.com

Greg Waggoner gregwaggoner55@gmail.com

We look forward to seeing you then!

Friends of Cornwall School (FOCS)

Kindergarten has been learning and creating rules and routines as part of our How We Organize Ourselves unit. We have talked about our hopes and dreams for the school year and what rules and routines might help us reach those goals. We listed many 'do' and 'don't' rules. This class is especially thoughtful about how to be kind.

We sorted our 'do' and 'don't' rules into categories and have decided most could fall into one of four groups:I can take care of myself, I can take care of others, I can take care of materials and belongings, and I can take care of the environment. We will focus on these guiding principles this year as we learn and play together!

We have also been observing the changes of a monarch caterpillar. We are reading books to learn more and answer our questions about the life cycle of the Monarch Butterfly. Our projects are helping us to learn about the butterfly as well as how to attend, follow directions, and use materials during learning times.

The Cornwall School Directory will be available Monday, September 11, 2023. To be included in the directory, please be sure to turn in your school paperwork by September 8.

If you would like a copy of the directory, you may email Laurie at lballantine@acsdvt.org and let her know if you would prefer an electronic or paper copy.

Wednesdays: Papier Mache!

Grades: K - 5

Time: 2:50 - 5:00 PM

Location: Cornwall School

Dates: September 13 - October 25 (no class October 4)

Come try out papier mache with Cornwall mom and artist Caitlin Hirschberg!

Sign-Up: https://form.jotform.com/232417046431044

Sign-Up: https://form.jotform.com/232327151070040

Grade 5 boys and girls interested in working on their basketball skills and playing more games, we have a great opportunity for you!

Mini-metro basketball has been around for more than 30 years. Come join the grade 5/6 team from Middlebury! We have both a boys team and a girls team. Games are every Sunday starting on Nov. 5th. We will have one or two practices a week throughout October in Middlebury. We work on fostering a positive environment and focus on skill and team development.

Tryouts will be on Sept. 9th for the grade 5/6 boys at the Town Rec. gym from 4:30 to 5:45pm. The grade 5/6 girls tryouts/first practice will be on Sept. 10th from 5:45 to 7:00pm at the same gym. In both cases, please arrive up to a half hour early to get fitted for uniforms.

The Middlebury Basketball Association will be covering all fees and expenses. Players will need to travel for some games; we will also host games in Midddlebury at the Town Rec. gym.

For more information please email info@middhoops.com

• 9/4/23 NO SCHOOL - Labor Day
• 9/13/23 Back to School Night and Potluck

Sometimes there are changes to the school menu. You can always click here to find the latest one.

Hello Cornwall School families,

Thank you for your help in making this first week back to school one filled with smiles, laughter, and learning!

In addition to information about busing, Back to School night and the FOCS potluck , after school activities, etc., you will also find photos of our new staff members.

Have a great, and hopefully rain-free, weekend!

Warmly,

Heather

The Cornwall School Directory will be available Monday, September 11, 2023. To be included in the directory, please be sure to turn in your school paperwork by September 8.

If you would like a copy of the directory, you may email Laurie at lballantine@acsdvt.org and let her know if you would prefer an electronic or paper copy.

FOCS would like to invite you to join our first meeting of the year on Thursday, Sept 7 at 8am in the school’s Library. FOCS hosts a number of events for the school community throughout the year, including after school programming, and we’d love your help, thoughts, questions and support.

All are welcome!

If you have any questions, please email Molly Daly at mollyrsheehan@yahoo.com

Per the transportation agreement between Betcha and ACSD, a parent/guardian must be present to send and receive all kindergarten and first grade students onto and off of the bus each day.

Should you want your kindergarten/first grade student to get off the bus with an older sibling, you must send that request to the school. The school will then approve the request and pass it to the bus driver.

Bus drivers will not follow requests that have not been approved by the school.

Friends of Cornwall School (FOCS) Invites You and Your Family to Back-to-School Potluck & Information Night on Wednesday, September 13, from 5:15-7:30 p.m.

Please join us in welcoming the 2023-24 school year with our annual family potluck! It’s a wonderful way to reconnect with old friends, meet our new Cornwall School families and staff, and learn more about Friends of Cornwall School (FOCS).

Teachers will open their classrooms for Back-to-School Night after dinner. There will be three opportunities to meet with your students’ teachers, so if you have more than one child, you will be able to hear from multiple teachers.

​​Kids can stay out on the playground while parents head inside to learn more.

We are asking for parent volunteers to supervise the playground while parents rotate into the classroom. You can sign up here, and thank you, parents, for making this possible!

If you can help set up or have any questions, please get in touch with the Back-to-School committee.

EJ Bartlett ebartlett@middlebury.edu

Kristen Waggoner kristenadahlgren@gmail.com

Greg Waggoner gregwaggoner55@gmail.com

We look forward to seeing you then!

Friends of Cornwall School (FOCS)

Wednesdays: Papier Mache!

Grades: K - 5

Time: 2:50 - 5:00 PM

Location: Cornwall School

Dates: September 13 - October 25 (no class October 4)

Come try out papier mache with Cornwall mom and artist Caitlin Hirschberg!

Sign-Up: https://form.jotform.com/232417046431044

Sign-Up: https://form.jotform.com/232327151070040

Grade 5 boys and girls interested in working on their basketball skills and playing more games, we have a great opportunity for you!

Mini-metro basketball has been around for more than 30 years. Come join the grade 5/6 team from Middlebury! We have both a boys team and a girls team. Games are every Sunday starting on Nov. 5th. We will have one or two practices a week throughout October in Middlebury. We work on fostering a positive environment and focus on skill and team development.

Tryouts will be on Sept. 9th for the grade 5/6 boys at the Town Rec. gym from 4:30 to 5:45pm. The grade 5/6 girls tryouts/first practice will be on Sept. 10th from 5:45 to 7:00pm at the same gym. In both cases, please arrive up to a half hour early to get fitted for uniforms.

The Middlebury Basketball Association will be covering all fees and expenses. Players will need to travel for some games; we will also host games in Midddlebury at the Town Rec. gym.

For more information please email info@middhoops.com

• 9/4/23 NO SCHOOL - Labor Day
• 9/13/23 Back to School Night and Potluck

Sometimes there are changes to the school menu. You can always click here to find the latest one.

Hello Cornwall School families,

This week, teachers and staff have been working and learning together across the district as we plan for the school year. We're looking forward to seeing you next week!

Sometime today or on Monday, you will also receive a district-wide newsletter which will include a message from our interim Superintendent, Dr. Tim Williams, as well as meal service and bus route updates.

If you have any back-to-school questions please call 802-462-2463.

Warmly,

Heather

Pop in, have a popsicle, and meet the new teachers!

WHEN: Tuesday, August 29, 2023 from 2:30-3:30. Pop in any time during that window!

WHERE: West Field (kindergarten side of building). If it is raining, we will meet inside in the Multi-purpose room.

WHY: To meet the new teachers and say "hi".

Classrooms will not be open as teachers may still be preparing them. A more in-depth back-to-school event will be held on 9/13, which will provide an opportunity to see the classrooms and learn more about class activities, curricula, etc. More information will be coming in a future newsletter.

Check out the new ACSD website! If you haven't or if you would like to access it quickly right now, simply click on the title (Have you seen the new website?) above, and it will take you there. You'll see a tab for each school, and information will be added/built as the year goes on.

• Wednesday, August 30 is the first day of school!
• School begins at 7:50am.
• Children are welcome to arrive anytime after 7:40am, but not before, as there is no supervision.
• Students are dismissed at 2:50 pm.
• On the first day, please send children with a note about their after school plans unless you are picking your child up. Call Laurie in the front office (802-462-2463) if there is a change in dismissal plans.
• Please look for annual forms in your child's backpack on the first day of school and return all forms to Laurie by Friday Sept 1.

• August 30, 2023 First day of school
• 9/4/23 NO SCHOOL - Labor Day
• 9/13/23 Back to School Night and Potluck

Sometimes there are changes to the school menu. You can always click here to find the latest one.

Hello Cornwall School families,

Please see below for information about the first day of school, the website, and an invitation to a quick Meet and Greet with the new teachers!

You can also find information about school meals, bus routes and how to engage and connect with our school this year.

If you have any back-to-school questions please call 802-462-2463.

We're looking forward to seeing you soon!

Warmly,

Heather

Pop in, have a popsicle, and meet the new teachers!

WHEN: Tuesday, August 29, 2023 from 2:30-3:30. Pop in any time during that window!

WHERE: West Field (kindergarten side of building). If it is raining, we will meet inside in the Multi-purpose room.

WHY: To meet the new teachers and say "hi".

Classrooms will not be open as teachers may still be preparing them. A more in-depth back-to-school event will be held on 9/13, which will provide an opportunity to see the classrooms and learn more about class activities, curricula, etc. More information will be coming in a future newsletter.

Check out the new ACSD website! If you haven't or if you would like to access it quickly right now, simply click on the title (Have you seen the new website?) above, and it will take you there. You'll see a tab for each school, and information will be added/built as the year goes on.

• Wednesday, August 30 is the first day of school!
• School begins at 7:50am.
• Children are welcome to arrive anytime after 7:40am, but not before, as there is no supervision.
• Students are dismissed at 2:50 pm.
• On the first day, please send children with a note about their after school plans unless you are picking your child up. Call Laurie in the front office (802-462-2463) if there is a change in dismissal plans.
• Please look for annual forms in your child's backpack on the first day of school and return all forms to Laurie by Friday Sept 1.

• August 30, 2023 First day of school
• 9/4/23 NO SCHOOL - Labor Day
• 9/13/23 Back to School Night and Potluck

Sometimes there are changes to the school menu. You can always click here to find the latest one.

Hello Cornwall School families,

I hope you've been having a fun, relaxing summer with your families. We are excited for the new school year and hope you are too!

• Wednesday, August 30 is the first day of school! School begins at 7:50am.
• Children are welcome to arrive anytime after 7:40am, but not before, as there is no supervision.
• Students are dismissed at 2:50 pm. On the first day, please send children with a note about their after school plans unless you are picking your child up. Call Laurie in the front office (802-462-2463) if there is a change in dismissal plans.

Below you'll find an introduction to new staff members as well as teaching assignments for the 2023-2024 school year. I plan to send a newsletter each week, including a little more information about the start of school in each newsletter.

We value our Cornwall families and can't wait to welcome your children back and work with you this year!

Warmly,

Heather

We'd like to welcome and introduce our new staff members -pictures will come later!

Wendy Taylor- Wendy Taylor has spent the last two years working and learning as a paraprofessional and a substitute within ACSD and is excited to begin her first year as a classroom teacher. She moved to Vermont to attend Middlebury College, fell in love with the state, and hopes to make it a permanent home. For the past few summers, she has worked at a marine science camp in Orleans, MA, teaching hands-on, exploratory science lessons and collecting cool ocean facts! Wendy is looking forward to getting to know everyone at Cornwall School as our first grade teacher.

Sarah Trudo- Mrs. Sarah Trudo is thrilled to be joining Cornwall School as the second grade teacher this school year! She was born and raised in Castleton, Vermont and received a Bachelor’s Degree in Multidisciplinary Studies from Castleton University. She currently working towards obtaining my Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction through Southern New Hampshire University and is certified to teach both Elementary Education and Special Education (K-age 21).

K - Val Calzini

1st - Wendy Taylor

2nd - Sarah Trudo

3rd - Mindy Harvey

4th/5th classes - Kerry Burns-Collins and Andrew Hirsch

Special Education - Patricia Roeding and Liam Battjes

SLP - Sue Rakowski

Intervention - Claire Benjamin

Art- Sarah Flinn

Library - Abby Adams

Spanish - Meeka Kai-Sands

PE - Sierra Thornton

Music - Kate Cunningham

Band - Sarah Metcalf

Counselor - Tammie Johnson

Nurse - Haysal Jones

Chef - Dan Whittemore

Administrative Assistant - Laurie Ballantine

Paraprofessionals - Kellie Meyer, Roxanne Ross, and Larissa Traverse

• August 30, 2023 First day of school

Sometimes there are changes to the school menu. You can always click here to find the latest one.