Events, happenings, and our students’ successes!
On Thursday, March 27 the Grades 1, 2 and 3 classes visited the Royal Ontario Museum to take part in a lesson on the new Dinosaur Exhibit. The students were fascinated by the size of some of the skeletons on display in the beautiful new addition to the ROM. We learned many interesting facts and the students showed their engagement by asking equally intriguing questions.
On February 13, the Grade 1,2 and 3 classes went to the Hummingbird Centre to watch the musical drama of Flat Stanley. We went on the Funky Fun Bus which was multi-coloured. At first, we were afraid that we were going to be late for the performance because the bus wouldn’t start, however, we arrived just on time. The children loved the lively performance and wonderful music. I’m sure that parents have had some requests to acquire these story books.
The grades 3 - 6 classes took a trip back in time on Monday, October 22, when they visited Black Creek Pioneer Village. The grades 3, 4 and 5 classes experienced what it was like to be a child in Upper Canada in the 1800’s, by doing pioneer chores. They teased, carded and spun wool, made rag rugs, baked, washed dishes (yes, it’s true, parents!) and carried buckets of water. In the wood shop, they made wooden spoons, drilled holes, and used a weaving loom.
The grade six class supplemented their study of the Rebellions of 1837 with a mock trial and debate. They also visited the various buildings and talked about the issues and concerns of Upper Canadians in the early 1800’s.
The children learned a lot about the lives of pioneer children and adults, and I think, learned to appreciate hot running water and microwave ovens!
On Halloween, Laurel Academy students visited 33 Division, just next door. The staff there had prepared a wonderful “haunted house”, and there were more than a few playful shrieks heard from inside! One of the officers spoke to the children about Halloween safety, reminding them to walk well away from the road, not to eat anything untiil their parents inspect it, and to stay in areas they’re familiar with. Afterwards, the children were given loot bags full of treats, colouring activities, and a reflective band to wear while trick-or-treating.
Laurel Academy staff and students would like to express a sincere thanks to the staff at 33 Division who made this visit lots of fun!
A little report and some pictures can be found at
http://www.torontopolice.on.ca/d33/20071101-d33_community_bulletin.pdf