Practicing Gratitude
SGA Poster designed by Melany, Class of 2026
Dear Friends,
Where to begin! It’s been such a great week with the start of the basketball season and planning for our big party on Wednesday. We are also working on bigger projects: Our third iteration of the Nora Mural is going up and it’s research paper writing season! Additionally, teachers are preparing for Field Trip Week upon our return from the extended Thanksgiving Break (Thursday-Monday).
Happenings that need little extra attention include our Thanksgiving Reunion on Wednesday. Current students provide the food, structure and clean up for this party. It is a great way to experience all that is involved in hosting a party. So please be sure you take a little time this weekend to purchase groceries needed for dishes to bring on Wednesday. See Marcia’s note below if you have questions about what to bring. During the morning, different classrooms have activities for our students and guests to participate in. Set up and clean up are important activities too. Many hands make short work, and we will dismiss school after the building is ready for Tuesday’s return to classes. This includes moving desks and chairs, wiping down tables, storing games and decorations away, washing dishes, and bringing leftovers home. We will begin cleaning at noon.
Attention also is needed to be ready for Field Trip Week when we return. This is a week we set aside for specific classes to take excursions around town. Global Literature, US History, Music, Photography and Art Classes will be leaving the building on separate days. Students will need Metrocards, walking shoes and weather appropriate clothing. Students not on field trips will have classes as scheduled.
With all the hustle and bustle of the season we have also noted an uptick of students out with cold, flu and COVID. Sickness impacts us all. We want to support those who are recovering and do what we can to prevent getting sick. Please take time to get your COVID booster and the flu vaccine, and please alert us if you are specifically diagnosed with an illness. Montgomery County is particularly concerned with the increase in RSV among children.
Precautionary measures we can take:
Get enough rest and eat your fruits and veggies
Wash your hands frequently
Stay home if you are actively symptomatic with fever, vomiting or diarrhea
Test for COVID if you have any symptoms of cold or flu
Wear a mask
Get your flu and COVID vaccines
We’ve been practicing gratitude mindfulness in morning meeting this week. Actively seeking small moments of kindness or beauty over time strengthens your ability to notice the good.
This school would not be what it is without you. I am so grateful to work with each of you: families, students, teachers and administrators, board, and those who have come and gone, yet who still support our work. Thank you! You each bring light to my world and I hope you can feel some glimmer of it in yours.
Wishing you a beautiful Thanksgiving.
Peace,
Mara
(Nora News will return in December.)