Happy New Year from Griggs! I am beginning with a New Year's resolution to revive our elementary blog and make it something that is beneficial to our homeschool families. My goal is to update this blog weekly and encourage interaction. I am open to your comments and suggestions regarding this blog and look forward to using it as a tool to get to know you better.
Many of us like to begin a new year by taking a look back at what we have done over the past year, and looking forward to plan for an even better year to come. I would like to use this opportunity to give you a peek inside Griggs over the past year, and also let you know what we are looking forward to in the year to come.
As many of you know, Griggs has had some staff turnover this year and I am new to my position. We sadly said good bye to Mrs. Valenzuela as Elementary Supervisor, but are so happy that she is continuing on as a teacher for our 7th and 8th graders, and is a course author as well. Working behind a computer is a huge change for me after classroom teaching and I appreciate all of the personal videos, pictures and notes from the students. Thank you for making me feel welcome! My learning curve has been steep, but I am making progress every day.
Griggs has completed an accreditation for the North American Division of Seventh Day Adventists this fall. Accreditations are a lot of work, but all went very well. Our strategic planning this fall has been focused on reviewing and updating the elementary curriculum. I am excited about the progress and plans already in place. One of the first exciting updates for the elementary curriculum is implementation of the "By Design" science series for elementary. This science curriculum was specifically designed by the North American Division, and is a creation based science program with a Christian world view. Third grade has already launched and first, second, and fourth grades will not be far behind.
We are also looking for new and innovative ways to increase our personal interaction with our students and families. We have launched a story time for the elementary students. Participants have enjoyed our "practice runs" and we look forward to worship stories from Junior Guide on Fridays at 11:30 am EST. I hope to see you there! Watch for upcoming information about Griggs open house nights coming soon. We are also exploring some alternative assessments which would allow you to videotape projects such as "ABC books" rather than mailing them in.
Homeschooling is a serious commitment, but as you look back over the past year, I am confident that you will find that all of your efforts were well invested in the lives of your children. If you have any positive experiences you would like to share to encourage other families, please feel free to comment below.
I wish you many blessings as you begin this New Year!
Cindy Cancel
ps. Up next... We have many families embarking on their homeschooling journeys at the beginning of January. Where to begin?
