Yes, there is homework!

There is Science (girls receive 2 days), SS, and Math work due tomorrow. Much time was given in class to get ahead in the work. The boys had much of the morning to accomplish work, while the girls were in music hearing a talk by Mrs. Connors. Most of the boys did not take advantage of the time.

I asked each one if he understood the homework and each responded in the affirmative. Check the blog.

Feast of Sts. Michael, Gabriel, and Rafael

Monday, we celebrate the Feast of the Archangels. How often do we take them for granted? How often do we make up our own rules when it comes to these creations of God?

Michael threw Lucifer out of heaven, Gabriel visited Mary, and various angels were also messengers for God to his people. At the end of each rosary, the kids say the prayer to our Guardian Angels. Each of us has been given our own angel who will remain with us for eternity.

Invoke these holy spirits. Ask for their protection. Stories abound by people who have devotions to the angels and how the angels have protected them or their family. Archangels and Guardian Angels, guide us and protect us!

Math Club?

We have an opportunity to take part in a math club, and an option to compete, online, against other schools. This would be, apparently, a rigorous challenge if our kids want to compete. This may be something you want to discuss with your student(s). There may be a fair amount of extracurricular work involved.

The Verdict Is In

As we wait for the verdict in "To Kill A Mockingbird," testing begins-but we will take what time there is to continue with the book. We have also started the movie, so the kids can list the differences between the two.

Testing Week

Be sure your kids get plenty of rest for the Iowa Basic Test next week. Try to get some food into your son or daughter before he/she heads to school. Kids think with a clearer head when they have some nourishment.

Almost Finished

The seventh and eighth grade classes are near the end of the book. We should be past page 200 today. The kids will also see the movie with Gregory Peck and the students will have to provide a number of differences between the book and the movie. Some of the students are having difficulty focusing on the reading, but this will (or, should) help them as they proceed to high school. The expectation is that they plod through, inspite of their interest or disinterest.

From a historical perspective, we have discussed the time period (1930s), the location (south) and the civil right status of African Americans. Just prior to this period, our SS books provide a basic look at Reconstruction and the North-South reactions to this post Civil War rebuilding.

Fall Break Will Be Here Soon!

Enjoy your weekend with an activity you love.

Pray For Us, Mother of God.

Today, the Church celebrates the birth of Mary. She is God's perfect creature. She said yes to the Angel, Gabriel, when he asked her to give flesh to the eternal word. What a powerful and loving mother we have in heaven.

If you have a photo that you would like to have placed on a poster board, next to Our Lady of Grace, please send it with your son or daughter. We are asking for Mary's prayers and protection.

O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee!

There's Nothing Like A Day of Tests

Yes, mom and dad, the kids should sleep well tonight. A couple of tests and a pop quiz will do it every time. Science, Math, Geography, and Social Studies. Next week, there will be a Religion test.

A 7th grade note: all of the boys are in the front row, now. They all have a front row view of their teacher: just so you know in case they start experiencing nightmares.

You Sure You Studied?

Tests abound this week: Social Studies, Geography, Science, and Math. Next week, Religion. We do a thorough review before each test, and the students have about 20 minutes prior to the test to review.

Chickens Come Home To Roost

It's time for those pesky progress reports! Most are doing well, and many have improved from last year. For some of the younger students the change to a middle school atmosphere takes some getting used to. Parents should always feel free to contact me, especially through the blog. Thanks for your support and patience.