QUE PASA 5/1/2019 (ENGLISH)

Dear Parents,

       I hope you had a blessed Easter with your family! It’s hard to believe that we are now in the month of May and in the liturgical season of Easter, but what does living the spirit of the Easter season mean? Here are three suggestions from, “Be Fearless, Be Joyful, Be Renewed: Living the Spirit of Easter” (www.loyolapress.com).

Live With Joy.  The Passion and Resurrection of Jesus teach us that suffering is transformed through faith in the Risen Christ. With this faith, we are able to hold on to an enduring sense of joy even in the midst of the sadness we experience from the loss of a loved one, a failure to achieve an important goal, or a setback during recovery from an illness.

Live Without Fear.  The Resurrection teaches us that God can overcome anything, even death. When the Risen Christ appears to the women at the tomb and later to his disciples, his first words are “Do not be afraid!” (Mt 28:5). These words speak to our hearts, helping us cope with fear. Our faith allows us to trust that God can overcome our most serious problems.

Live With New Eyes.  Just as the return of spring makes us feel like the whole world is new, the Resurrection of Jesus makes “all things new” (Rev. 21:5).  The Easter spirit is a spirit of renewal that enables us to show up at work with a positive attitude, to renew relationships that have been taken for granted, and to express appreciation and affection to those closest to us. It means to see the world through new eyes—God´s eyes!

We can celebrate our faith by feeding our Easter spirit—embracing joy, living without fear, and seeing the world again—as if for the first time.

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

RE-REGISTRATION FEE FOR 2019-2020

The completed orange re-registration form for the upcoming school year and Registration fee of $475 per student are now past due. Both are required to hold your child’s spot in a class for the upcoming school year.  Please call the office if you have any questions.

FAMILY LOTERIA NIGHT

Save the date for Friday, May 10 and join us for Family Loteria Night!  $3 to purchase a Loteria card for unlimited play and for a chance to win a prize from the prize table.  $5 for a Loteria card to play to win a $50 Target gift card or $50 Safeway Gift card.  Plus, we’ll have a snack bar with food and beverages. See the attached flyer for ways that you can help at this event.  All proceeds will benefit the 7th grade Caritas Camp trip for October 2019! 

SPORTS PAYMENTS

Pending sports registration and uniform payment statements have been going home with your students the last couple of months. New statements will be going home with this week's Que Pasa (5/1/19). Please ensure that your payments are up to date to allow for your child's participation in our sports program next year 2019-2020. Failure to make all payments by June 3rd, 2019 will result in your child's inability to participate in sports next year. Thank you for your attention to this matter and for helping make our sports program a success!

SOCCER COACH NEEDED

Aztecs! Do you play soccer? Are you interested in coaching?! We are very excited to announce that we will be starting a second-grade soccer team next year! The league is not part of CYO, as they do not begin team play until third grade, but we firmly believe that exposing our students to sports at an earlier age can only be beneficial! Please contact our Athletic Director Jim Sanchez at 415-722-3999 if you are interested in helping out! 

NO AFTER SCHOOL SERVICES

There will be no BVCC after school services available on Thursday, June 6 (12:30 Dismissal) and Friday, June 7 (10:00 Dismissal).

The Computer lab will also be closed on Wednesday, June 5 and Thursday, June 6 (both 12:30 Dismissal days); and Friday, June 7 (10:00 Dismissal).

APRIL STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

Homeroom teachers identify Students of the Month at the end of each month.  We celebrate these students because they have exemplified living the St. Peter’s KEYS:

Knowledge feeds GROWTH. 

Every ACCOMPLISHMENT needs courage.

You are LOVE.

SERVICE UNITES.

KINDER - Tiffany Escobar is kind, responsible and a self-motivated learner. She comes to school with a smile on her face and shows excitement for learning. She enjoys writing, learning about God and leading a prayer. Tiffany works hard not only herself, but to help her peers as well. She has the KEYS to embrace new experiences with an open heart and open mind. For all those reasons and more, Tiffany is April's student of the month.

1A - Hilary Benitez is an excellent example of a student living out St. Peter's KEYS. Hilary always practices kindness by treating others as she would like to be treated. She shows love through her patience for others and her ability to forgive, even when it is difficult. Hilary also shows how much she loves to grow her brain by coming to school ready to learn and always trying her best. For these reasons, I am very happy to announce Hilary as first grade's student of the month.

2A - Layla Diaz is our student of the month! Layla tries her best and does not shy away from a challenge. Layla is peaceful and helps others with conflict resolution. Her family really supports her and helps her to succeed. Second graders know they can go to Layla if they need help. Thanks, Layla!   

3A - Isabella Coreas is a hard worker that focuses on her classwork and homework.  She is a responsible student and offers to help other students regularly.  When she finishes her class assignments she frequently asks if she can help by doing jobs in the room.  Keep up your Growth Mindset, it will serve you well, congratulations! 

4A - Gizzele Johnson has worked hard in the classroom all year long. She strives to reach her goals, and works diligently master each skill. She believes in herself and she believes in her classmates! She has also grown as a bucket filler, respecting classmates and teachers. Gizzele has an awesome imagination, and has built confidence public speaking this year. As a class ambassador, she provides a welcoming smile to all our guests. Congratulations, Gizzele!

5A - Karen Hernandez Gallardo is always open to new challenges, which is why she’s made huge academic growth in her STAR scores. Her scores have already gone up by 2 grade levels this year! Even more importantly, she shares her gifts with the school community by welcoming others with a kind spirit, respecting all school rules, and helping others. Congratulations Karen!  

6A - Brenda Hernandez has been a wonderful example of a student with the KEYS this year.  She has the keys to grow as she faces challenges with positivity and faith, she has the keys to love as she shows appreciation for what others do, and she has the keys to unite as she supports and encourages others.  Thank you, Brenda, for your courage while facing challenges and sharing your talents and ideas this school year! 

7A - Angela Miranda is a student who truly lives out St. Peter's School's KEYS.  She is thoughtful, creative, kind, and courageous. And it is for these reasons why she is 7A's Student of the Month.  Good job Angela! 

8A - Santiago Santes has been diligent and consistent in completing his work well, and on time. He is respectful towards his peers and teachers alike, and is a reliable classmate and friend. 

8B - Matthew Jimenez demonstrates critical thinking and optimism when confronted with new challenges. He is trying his best to GROW both mentally and spiritually. His work in student council has SERVED our school and he is committed to making his community a better place for others. His teachers are certain that he will continue to ACCOMPLISH great things as he ventures away from St. Peter's and on to Lowell High School. 

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - I hope everyone had a wonderful spring break! This week, students are learning about working together in groups. We will sing "When We Work Together" and read What's the Big Idea, Molly? The story is about a mouse who works with her friends on a project. After, students will write their own stories that will have characters talking to one another. Students will work in pairs to complete this task. In Math, we will learn to name cubes, cones, cylinders, and spheres.

1A - Welcome back! I hope you had a wonderful Easter! This week, we are reading, writing, and learning about how things get built. In religion, we are thanking God for all of the gifts he has given us. In science, we are continuing our study of sound. In social studies, we are continuing work on our mapping skills.

2A – We are reading King Midas and the Golden Touch--lots of poetry!  We are learning about multiplication by creating arrays in math (twos, fives, and tens).  We will check on our seeds in the garden and learn about rocks in science.  We continue learning mass responses and saying prayers for loved ones. 

3A – Welcome back from Easter vacation. I hope it was restful. I am also hopeful that the students worked on their tablets to complete the 20-minute daily requirement that was an integral part of their homework during our vacation.  This week in Reading, we will complete our unit on the chapter book, Addie's One Wish to the Brightest Star. We are preparing questions to ask author Gloria St. Joy when she visits our classroom to discuss her book.  In Math class, we are beginning our unit on geometry. We will also learn about lines, rays and line segments. 

4A - Welcome back to School! We are back into the swing of things! In Religion, we will be learning about the Easter Season as well as beginning our Unit on Mary, during the month of May. In Math, we will continue with fractions. We will focus on adding and subtracting fractions. We will be spiral-reviewing for our next STAR Testing day. In Reading, we will begin novel reading groups. We will focus on a group novel and work to answer comprehension questions based on our novels. In Social Studies, we will be listening to our Mission Project presentations. Our Mission Writing and Project was due yesterday--Tuesday, April 30. In Science, we will continue to focus on the planets and solar system. 

5A – Welcome back from Spring Break! I hope you all had a wonderful Easter celebration and relaxing week with family. 5th grade will be easing back into the school routine this week. In math, we’ll review the addition and subtraction of fractions and mixed numbers. In ELA, we’ll be diagramming the plot structure of Harry Potter. Students will also be finishing and presenting their math pizza fraction projects this week! Check Class Dojo for more updates and photos! 

6A  Religion – Students will be reading about witnesses to Jesus' resurrection to celebrate the Easter season. Language Arts –Welcome back and I hope everyone had a restful Easter Break. 6A has finished the novel Tuck Everlasting and will work on two culminating projects this week: creating a Ferris wheel to represent the stages of their lives and writing a literary response essay, analyzing the theme of the novel. Students will learn to state a clear thesis statement and support their claim using evidence from the text.   Math – 6A will find the areas and missing dimensions of triangles.  Social Studies – Students are researching Greek gods and goddesses and will begin a group board game for our Ancient Greece Unit.  Science – 6A will discuss what causes seasons.

7A   Religion -  7A will define almsgiving and learn how giving alms and imitating Christ can help us grow in certain virtues. Language Arts - Students are continuing with their nonfiction unit, specifically focusing on text structures and text characteristics. Math – 7A will find the area of circles.   Social Studies – Students are continuing their research of the First American Civilizations: Olmec, Maya, Inca, and Aztec.  Science – Students have completed their work on genetic disorders and now it's time to discuss the systems that make up the human organism.

8A/8B   Religion - This week students will be comparing different accounts of the Resurrection of Christ!  Language Arts - Students are finishing reading the last parts of Romeo and Juliet and are completing a culminating assignment for the play.   Math – Students will find the volume of cylinders.   Social Studies – Students are researching inventions of the 1800s that led to changes in the United States before the Civil War.   Science - Students are building their mousetrap car! This is the final project of their time here at Saint Peter's! Good luck!

REMINDERS

May 2        Free Dress for No Tardies in April

May 2        USF Tutoring Field Trip

May 2        6:00 PM, 8th Grade Confirmation Rehearsal at St. Peter’s Church

May 4        10:00 AM, 8th Grade Confirmation at St. Mary’s Cathedral 

May 6-17   Final STAR Testing Window

May 8        8:30 AM, May Crowning Prayer Service and Student Council Officer Installation

May 9        Ice Cream Field Trip to Garfield Park (Summer  Learning Challenge Prize)

May 10      4A Field Trip to the Exploratorium

May 10      5:00-7:00 PM, Family Loteria Night 

QUE PASA 4/17/2019 (English)

Dear Parents,

       Throughout Lent, the students have been learning and acting upon different ways that they can grow closer to God.  Now that we find ourselves in the middle of Holy Week, I hope you find that your journey through Lent has brought you and your family closer to God, and that together, you can share the love that God the Father has shown us.  Remember Jesus’ gift of the Eucharist on Holy Thursday, and the ultimate sacrifice he made for us on Good Friday so that our sins could be forgiven. Together, take time to say a prayer of thanksgiving for God’s love as we await Jesus’ resurrection on Easter. 

We pray:

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of everlasting life brought about by the resurrection of your son from the dead! This dark night is enlightened by a glimpse of the greatest mystery.  Our minds could never have conceived how you would save us, Lord, nor can we ever fully understand the depths of your love in choosing to do so.  We thank you for all that you have done for us throughout Lent. Now, throughout Easter, grant us the fullness of life.  AMEN.

(Adapted from “The Joy of Lent: Encouragement and Daily Prayers”)

Have a joyous Easter!

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez  

RE-REGISTRATION FEE FOR 2019-2020

The completed orange re-registration form for the upcoming school year and Registration fee of $475 per student are now past due. Both are required to hold your child’s spot in a class for the upcoming school year.  Please call the office if you have any questions.

STUDENT COUNCIL ELECTIONS

Congratulations to all the students who showed courage and leadership as they ran for Student Council Office.  Here are our newly-elected Student Council officers, who will serve as our student leaders in the 2019-2020 school year:

President – Gabriel Sembrana

Vice President – Achella Ramirez

Secretary – Justin Abregana-Reyes

Treasurer – Jose Contreras 

Commissioner of Religious Affairs –  Guadalupe Gonzalez-Cabrera

Commissioner of Safety – Briana Alvarado

Commissioner of Sports – Mariah Castellanos

Commissioner of Communications – Jazmin Gamez

8th Grade representatives – Elijah Langlois and  Angela Miranda

 STEAM FAIR 

Last Friday, our Middle School students all shared their STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) Projects with the whole school!  We had Guest Judges at the Fair, and below are all the STEAM Fair winners!

Strongest Take Away Lesson:

Water Filtration” by Angely (6A)

“Corn Snake & Bearded Dragon” by Yasmin & Sophia (7A)

“Changing Flower Colors” by Victoria, Priscilla, & Kathy (8th)

Most Visually Creative:

“Jet Powered Boat” by Jordan, Mariah, & Tatiana (6A)

“LED Light Throwies” by Achella, Miranda, & Gisele

“Claw Machine” by Daniel, Angel, & Eduardo (8th) 

Exemplary Teamwork:

“Marble Maze” by Brenda & Catherine (6A)

“DIY Rain Cloud” by Jackie & Anadela (7A)

“Dancing Markers” by Amaya & Alondra (8th)

Most Original Project:

“Water Based Piano” by Gio, Gaby, & Alaysha (6A)

“Music & Sound Performance” by Adrian, Braulio, and Elijah (7A)

“Starlite” by Matthew, Emilio, & Kalven (8th)

Best Presentation to Judges:

“Water Powered Wheel” by Aavey, Guadalupe, and Veronica (6A)

“Water Rocket” by Jose, Carlos, and Josiah (7A)

“Moo-moo Milk Machine” by Bianca, Delisa, & Nathalee (8th)

**Special thanks to Mr. Suarez, Ms. Land, Mr. Guzman, and Ms. VanConas for preparing the students and coordinating this event!

BVCC SPRING CAMP

The BVCC Program is hosting a Spring Camp at St. Peter’s School from Tuesday, April 23 through Friday, April 26.  On those days, services will be available from 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM.  Activities include cooking, sports, and STEM, and lunch and snacks will be provided.  Registration forms are available in the school office and in BVCC.  Please call Rochelle at 415-713-0625 or Sheri at 415-850-4812 if you have any questions.

FAMILY LOTERIA NIGHT

Save the date for Friday, May 10 and join us for Family Loteria Night!  $3 to purchase a Loteria card for unlimited play and for a chance to win a prize from the prize table.  $5 for a Loteria card to play to win a $50 Target gift card or $50 Safeway Gift card.  Plus, we’ll have a snack bar with food and beverages. See the attached flyer for ways that you can help at this event.  All proceeds will benefit the 7th grade Caritas Camp trip for October 2019! 

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - This week, we are learning about things in nature that can be used to create new things. We will make a list of natural resources that can be used to create food. After, students will work in pairs to name two foods that are made from things in nature. In Math, we are identifying and comparing flat shapes.

1A - This week, we are reviewing our work on words with the /ar/, /er/, and /or/ sounds. In religion, we are celebrating Holy Week and preparing for Easter. In math, we are reviewing money, time, and measurement. In science we are starting our study of sound. In social studies, we are continuing our unit on mapping skills. Thank you for all your help. Have a wonderful Easter break. :)

2A – We are reading “Money Madness” to learn why money came to be.  We are learning about multiplication by creating arrays of 5’s in math.  We harvested our lettuce and will check on our seeds in the garden; and we’ll learn about rocks and study worms in science. We will read “The Easter Story,” attend Holy Thursday prayer service, and continue to prepare for Easter. Have a restful Spring Break!

3A – 3A is studying about the holiest week of the year for all of us as Catholics. We look forward to watching the 4th graders act out the passion of Jesus through the Stations of the Cross on Wednesday. We will attend our Holy Thursday Prayer Service as we prepare for the events leading up to and including Jesus' resurrection. We continue to do random acts of kindness for our classmates, schoolmates and families. We have collected money for the Missionary Childhood Association and we continue to read the Gospels of St. Matthew. We want to wish all of our families and friends a joyful, blessed and restful week of vacation. 

4A - This week, we will be focusing on the events leading up to Jesus' death and resurrection. We are very excited for our Stations of the Cross today. In Reading, we are all Easter theme. We will be reading stories about Spring, discussing how we have grown during the year, and writing an expository essay! In Math, we will continue to work with fractions and learn how to make fractions in a garden. In Social Studies, we will continue to focus on our Missions projects. In Science, we will switch our focus to flowers. Wishing everyone a very Happy Easter and a nice break!

5A – In religion this week, 5th graders are learning about the Triduum and preparing to lead the Holy Thursday prayer service. We’ll also be combining religion and art for a special egg decorating activity. In math, we will be subtracting mixed numbers. In ELA, we’ll be reading chapter 17 of Harry Potter and discussing characters’ internal conflict. Check Class Dojo for more updates and photos! 

6A  Religion – Students will be interpreting Stations of the Cross and reading about the events during Holy Week in preparation for the Triduum.  Language Arts – 6A continues to analyze text structure and will have a final review before taking our assessment this week. We are also near the end of our novel, Tuck Everlasting, and are diving into deep discussions on the purpose of life, change, and death, using both the lens of our Catholic faith and science.  Math – 6A will continue to find the area and missing dimensions of parallelograms.  Social Studies – Students will be sharing their written myths, viewing the film Hercules, and reading the myths about Hercules' tasks to compare myth to the film.

7A   Religion -  Students will take a chapter and unit test in Religion.  Language Arts - Students are continuing their unit on nonfiction. Currently, they are reading articles and determining the author's point of view based on word choice and tone.  Math – 7A will continue to find the circumference of circles.   Social Studies – Students will begin learning about the First American Civilizations and the physical geography of the Americas.  Science – Students continue to present their genetic disorder presentations and models. 

8A/8B   Religion - Students will be learning about each of the days of Holy Week!  Language Arts - Students are well into their study of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. They are currently reading the play in class, and analyzing important quotes and themes from the text.  Math – 8A and 8B will continue to use the Pythagorean Theorem.   Social Studies – Students will be researching significant events from 1800-1850 and presenting their research to the class--Texas Revolution, Mexican American War, Gold Rush, and Slavery—at that time.  Science - Students continue to work on their laws of motion while preparing for their final project of the year: the mousetrap car project!

REMINDERS

Apr. 18      8:30 AM, Holy Thursday Prayer Service

Apr. 18      12:30 Dismissal

Apr. 19      Good Friday, Easter Vacation Begins

Apr. 20      Easter Sunday

Apr. 29      School Resumes, 12:30 dismissal

May 2        Free Dress for No Tardies in April

May 4        10:00 AM, 8th Grade Confirmation at St. Mary’s Cathedral 

May 10      5:00-7:00 PM, Family Loteria Night 

QUE PASA 4/10/2019 (English)

Dear Parents,

       We are fast approaching the beginning of Holy Week this coming Sunday, which is Palm Sunday.  At school, children have been preparing their hearts for Jesus’ death and resurrection by receiving the sacrament of Reconciliation, making special donations to the Missions, learning about the Stations of the Cross, and writing special prayers. During your Lenten journey, I pray that you and your family have grown closer to God, and continue to strengthen your faith and service towards God during Holy Week and throughout the year.

Let us pray:

Heavenly Father, we enter into Holy Week so that we might accompany you through your passion to your death. We have to remember that your story does not end in sadness. Rather, your story is the greatest love story that we could ever know. Holy Week gives us an opportunity to participate in that love story in a profound and personal way. We pray that you give us a special attentiveness during Holy Week, Lord. Shower us with your grace!  AMEN.

(Adapted from “The Joy of Lent: Encouragement and Daily Prayers”)

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez  

PALM SUNDAY FAMILY MASS

This Sunday, April 14, join us for Palm Sunday Family Mass at 9:30 AM at St. Peter’s Church. A reception in the Parish Hall hosted by Kindergarten, 5A, and 8A will follow mass.  Plus, students who come to Mass in school uniform will receive a free dress pass for the following Monday. 

SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY and SCHOOLWIDE LEARNING EXPECTATIONS

As part of our upcoming WCEA (Western Catholic Educational Association) school accreditation process, faculty and staff examined our school mission statement, philosophy, and Schoolwide Learning Expectations (SLEs)—all available on our school website at  http://www.stpeterssf.org/about. These are guides on how we can help our students and ourselves live out our Core Values to Grow, Accomplish, Love, Serve, and Unite. 

RE-REGISTRATION FEE FOR 2019-2020

The completed orange re-registration form for the upcoming school year and Registration fee of $475 per student are now past due. Both are required to hold your child’s spot in a class for the upcoming school year.  Please call the office if you have any questions.

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

The application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant for the 2019-2020 school year has now begun.  Please go on to mytads.comto begin the application process. Be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Please be sure you have completed the total process by the Archdiocese deadline—April 15, 2019.

STEAM FAIR

STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics.  This Friday, April 12, our Middle School students will be presenting their STEAM Fair exhibits from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM.  Parents are welcome to see the exhibits as well! Special thanks to Mr. Suárez and Ms. Land for coordinating this event, and to Mr. Suarez, Ms. Land, Mr. Guzman, and Ms. VanConas for helping students prepare their exhibits.

STUDENT COUNCIL ELECTIONS

This week, Student Council officer candidates have been campaigning and preparing for elections, which will take place tomorrow!  Prayers to all our candidates who are willing to serve on Student Council and who are showing us all that Every accomplishment needs courage!

BVCC SPRING CAMP

The BVCC Program is hosting a Spring Camp at St. Peter’s School from Tuesday, April 23 through Friday, April 26.  On those days, services will be available from 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM.  Activities include cooking, sports, and STEM, and lunch and snacks will be provided.  Registration forms are available in the school office and in BVCC.  Please call Rochelle at 415-713-0625 or Sheri at 415-850-4812 if you have any questions.

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - This week, we will discuss ways to be good citizens! First, we will begin by reading Hen Hears Gossip and find out how the characters in the story could have been better citizens. We are also going to be blending words with long i: rice, dice, mice, bike, nine, etc. In math, we will go over names of shapes and count their corners.

1A - This week, we are reading, writing, and learning about different sounds and how they are made. In religion, we are discussing the different ways that we can give thanks to God. In math, we are measuring and comparing the lengths of different objects. In science, we are continuing our study of kites and wind. In social studies, we are learning about cardinal directions and working with a compass rose.

2A – We are reading “An Astronaut Handbook’ to learn what it's like to live in space.  In math, we are moving onto arrays to prepare for multiplication. We will check on our seeds in the garden and learn about rocks in science. We continue to pray for loved ones during Lent and prepare for Easter.

3A – This week, we will begin a class read of Addie's Wish to the Brightest Star by Gloria St. Joy.  Upon completion of reading her book, she will visit our classroom to tell us about her writing experiences.  She will also answer our questions about her book and what it is like to be a writer.  In Religion, we continue to focus on the Stations of the Cross after going to church and walking and praying the Stations. In Art, we have completed our clothespin crucifixes and look forward to showing them off to our parents and schoolmates. 

4A - We have another exciting week in 4A! As we prepare for Jesus' death and resurrection, the students are preparing the Stations of the Cross. We are also learning about various parables that Jesus taught his disciples as well the miracles that Jesus performed. In Reading, we are reading our new story, “The Screech Owl Who Liked Television.” We will focus on fact and opinion. In Math, we will continue learning about fractions. In Social Studies, we will complete our unit on Father Serra and the Missions. Our Mission Project research is due this Wednesday! Our Mission Projects are due the week after Easter break. In Science, we will learn about the sun, moon, and earth. 

5A – 5th grade is now on chapter 16 of the first Harry Potter, and we're still loving the book! We’re using this chapter to review homophones and discuss cause & effect pairs. We’ll be learning how to subtract mixed numbers in math. In social studies, we’re working with groups to summarize the most important battles of the Revolutionary War. In science, we’re going to do a very special investigation inspired by Harry Potter’s “Potions” class. Make sure you check Class Dojo for more updates!

6A   Language Arts – 6A is diving into the reading strategy of identifying text structure. Looking for cues in text will really help our comprehension skills and make challenging text more accessible. We're using this strategy as we continue to read the novel Tuck Everlasting.   Math –6A will find the area and missing dimensions of parallelograms.  Social Studies – 6th Grade students are preparing for their first STEAM fair! They have been putting together their projects that connect to Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and/or Math to present to guests and volunteer judges this Friday!  Science – Students will describe how organisms adapt to particular climates. 

7A   Religion -  Students will pray the Lord's Prayer with a greater understanding of its seven petitions.   Language Arts - Students are continuing their unit on nonfiction, transitioning from author's purpose to author's point of view.   Math – 7A will find the circumference of circles and participate in this week's STEAM Fair.  Social Studies – Students will be researching significant pieces of artwork that were created by Renaissance artists and analyzing them as primary sources.  Science – Students will present their genetic disorders presentations and models.

8A/8B    Religion - This week in eighth grade religion students will prepare for Holy Week by learning about what each day signifies! Language Arts - Students are starting their unit reading and analyzing Romeo and Juliet.   Math – Students will use the Pythagorean Theorem.  Social Studies – Students continue to use evidence to respond to the question: Indian Removal--Is it justified?  Science - Students will begin working on their next project: The Mousetrap Car Project!

REMINDERS

Apr. 11      Student Council Primary Elections

Apr. 12      STEAM Fair

Apr. 14      9:30 AM, Palm Sunday Family Mass and Reception

Apr. 17      8:10 AM, Stations of the Cross Prayer Service

Apr. 18      8:30 AM, Holy Thursday Prayer Service

Apr. 18      12:30 Dismissal

Apr. 19      Good Friday, Easter Vacation Begins

Apr. 20      Easter Sunday

Apr. 29      School Resumes, 12:30 dismissal

QUE PASA 4/3/2019 (English)

Dear Parents,

       We are now in the fourth week of Lent.  How are you and your family growing closer to God? Reflect on what makes you unwell, not necessarily physically, but mentally, emotionally, spiritually. What unhealthy thing takes up the space in your heart, mind, and soul that belongs to God?  As today’s Psalm says, let us remember that God is merciful and always present, especially in our times of need.

The LORD is gracious and merciful,
slow to anger and of great kindness.
The LORD is good to all
and compassionate toward all his works.
The LORD is faithful in all his words
and holy in all his works.
The LORD lifts up all who are falling
and raises up all who are bowed down.
The LORD is just in all his ways
and holy in all his works.
The LORD is near to all who call upon him,
to all who call upon him in truth.
The Lord is gracious and merciful.

-Psalm 145:8-9

Merciful Lord, thank you for sending us your Son to free us from sin and make us new.  Help us to look forward in hope to the life that you have planned for us.   AMEN.

(Daily Reflections for Lent 2019, M. Poust)

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez  

SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY and SCHOOLWIDE LEARNING EXPECTATIONS

As part of our upcoming WCEA (Western Catholic Educational Association) school accreditation process, faculty and staff examined our school mission statement, philosophy, and Schoolwide Learning Expectations (SLEs)—all available on our school website at http://www.stpeterssf.org/about. These are guides on how we can help our students and ourselves live out our Core Values to Grow, Accomplish, Love, Serve, and Unite.  

RE-REGISTRATION FEE FOR 2019-2020

The completed orange re-registration form for the upcoming school year is now past due.  Extras are available in the office. The Registration fee of $475 per student is also now due.  Both are required to hold your child’s spot in a class for the upcoming school year.  

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

The application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant for the 2019-2020 school year has now begun.  Please go on to mytads.comto begin the application process. Be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Please be sure you have completed the total process by the Archdiocese deadline—April 15, 2019.  Applications and documents must be approved by TADS by April 15, 2019.

SF GIANTS OPENING DAY

This Friday, it’s opening day for our hometown baseball team, the San Francisco Giants!  Students may come to school wearing a Giants t-shirt or sweatshirt, or an orange and black t-shirt or sweatshirt.  However, students must still wear their uniform pants, skirt, or gray sweats.  

BVCC SPRING CAMP

The BVCC Program is hosting a Spring Camp at St. Peter’s School from Tuesday, April 23 through Friday, April 26.  On those days, services will be available from 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM.  Activities include cooking, sports, and STEM, and lunch and snacks will be provided.  Registration forms are available in the school office and in BVCC.  Please call Rochelle at 415-713-0625 or Sheri at 415-850-4812 if you have any questions.

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - This week, students are going to blend words with long a such as cake, made, bake, and rake. Next, students will write an opinion about a book they have read. They will work in pairs to generate sentences with adjectives and edit their writing. In Math, we will sort and count objects. Words to go over in Math are: heavier, lighter, taller, shorter, and longer. Parents, please help your child learn their sight words! Thank you! 

1A - This week, we are reading, writing, and learning about inventions. In religion, we are continuing to work on kindness. In math, we are beginning to work on telling time. In science, we are continuing our study of wind. In social studies, we are starting our work on mapping skills.

2A – We are reading “My Light” (an expository text) about solar power.  We are continuing with fractions (halves, thirds, fourths) of circles and rectangles.  We will observe what happened to our seeds in the garden and make tea in science. We will pray for loved ones during Lent and prepare for Easter. We are working on being more kind and loving to others.

3A – Welcome to April!  This week, we will move back into our reader after completing several chapter books.  We have successfully learned how to summarize chapter by chapter.  We have also been successful at ACCOMPLISHing our comprehension and vocabulary quizzes. For Math class, our percentage has GROWn with our tablet work in STMath as well as moving forward with our multiplication and division basic facts memorization.  A large part of this process is teaching about fact families and arrays. In Religion, we will again plan a visit to church and walk the Stations of the Cross.  I hope to soon do a meditation with 3A as part of our Lenten offering. 

4A - Happy April! This week in Religion, we will be focusing on the parables that Jesus taught us. We will also begin working on the Stations of the Cross. In Reading, we will finish our story “Me and Uncle Romie,” and begin focusing on our next story “The Screech Owl Who Liked Television.” We will focus on the strategies of Fact/Opinion as well as making inferences. In Math, we will continue to focus on fractions and common factors. In Social Studies, we will focus on our Missions Project and St. Junipero Serra. In Science, we will learn more about the sun, moon, and planets. We will have our progress monitoring in STAR Reading and STAR Math this week. Our Missions Project research is due on Wednesday, April 10th. Thank you for all your help!

5A - This week, 5th graders will use Harry Potter to practice sequencing plot events. We will continue investigating the concentration of solutions in science and map out Paul Revere’s ride in social studies. In religion, 5th graders will learn about the five main categories of prayers. In math, we’ll work on adding fractions with unlike denominators and begin a special pizza fraction project!

6A  Religion – Students will use their Bibles to compare different Lenten stories in the four Gospels.  Language Arts – 6A ended our poetry unit by writing beautiful and powerful lyric poems. We are now moving on to our next novel unit, Tuck Everlasting, a richly written work of fantasy. We'll continue to analyze the text for figurative language, carrying over many of the concepts we learned about in poetry.   Math – 6A students will begin finding the area of parallelograms.  Social Studies – Students are learning about the beliefs and traditions of Ancient Greece and will be writing their own myth.

7A Language Arts - Students are finishing their final poetry portfolios and sharing their work with their class. They are also continuing their study of nonfiction.  Math – 7A will find the area of a circle.  Social Studies – Students are identifying major scientists from the Scientific Revolution and explaining how their inventions and beliefs were revolutionary.    Science – Students continue putting their STEAM projects together while working on their genetic disorder research projects.

8A/8B   Religion - This week, students will be participating in Lenten Reconciliations and will discuss their role in salvation.   Language Arts - Students are finishing their final poetry portfolios and sharing their work with their class. They are also starting to read Romeo and Juliet.  Math – Students will examine angle relationships formed by parallel lines and a transversal.   Social Studies– Students will be reading documents from the removal of Native Americans in the 1830s and deciding if the removal was unjust.  Science - Students continue putting their STEAM projects together while studying the three laws of motion.

REMINDERS

Apr. 3      Free Dress for No Tardies in March

Apr. 4      8:30 AM, 8th grade Lenten Reconciliation

Apr. 8      Student Council Campaigning begins

Apr. 9      8:10 AM, School Mass

Apr. 9      Kinder and 2A Field Trip to Mission Branch Library

Apr. 10    8:30 AM, Student Council candidate speeches in church

Apr. 10    2A Field trip to Cinderella at Mercy High SF

Apr. 11    Student Council Primary Elections

Apr. 12    STEAM Fair

Apr. 14    9:30 AM, Palm Sunday Family Mass and Reception

QUE PASA 3/27/2019 (English)

Dear Parents,

       We are more than halfway through our Lenten journey.  At school, we guide students to open their hearts and minds; how have you opened your hearts and minds with your families during Lent? Here is a Lenten reflection from the Third Sunday of Lent (adapted from Daily Reflections for Lent 2019, Mary Poust):

Remove the sandals from your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground. (Exod 3:5)

So often, we listen to Scripture stories, and brush them off as an event meant for different people in a different time, but the Word of God is alive and meant for us today, right now. Look around your life. Where is your holy ground? During this Lenten season, can you rekindle a sense of awe for the divine and begin to take note of the ordinary moments that provide extraordinary insights? Where is God in those moments? Or perhaps more accurately, where are you? There is a saying circulating in spiritual columns that seems to fit here: If God feels far away, guess who moved?

Praise to you, God of all creation! May we always be mindful of the holy ground on which we tread, and may we be attentive to your call and open to your invitation.  AMEN.

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez  

SCHOOLWIDE LEARNING EXPECTATIONS

As part of our upcoming WCEA (Western Catholic Educational Association) school accreditation process, faculty and staff examined our Schoolwide Learning Expectations, also known as SLEs.  The attached flyer contains our revised SLEs, based on our Core Values to Grow, Accomplish, Love, Serve, and Unite.

3rd QUARTER REPORT CARDS

Today, report cards are being sent home with each student.  Report cards should be signed by a parent/guardian and returned to your child’s teacher by this Friday.  If you have any questions regarding your child’s report card, please send the teacher a message (email or Class Dojo) or leave a message in the office, or schedule an appointment with your child’s teacher so that he/she may plan accordingly.

RE-REGISTRATION FOR 2019-2020

The completed orange re-registration form for the upcoming school year is now past due.  Extras are available in the office. Please return the re-registration as soon as possible in order to help plan for the new school year.  The $475 registration fee per student is due on Friday, March 29.

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

The application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant for the 2019-2020 school year has now begun.  Please go on to mytads.comto begin the application process. Be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Please be sure you have completed the total process by the Archdiocese deadline—April 14, 2019.

BVCC SPRING CAMP

The BVCC Program is hosting a Spring Camp at St. Peter’s School from Tuesday, April 23 through Friday, April 26.  On those days, services will be available from 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM.  Activities include cooking, sports, and STEM, and lunch and snacks will be provided.  Registration forms are available in the school office and in BVCC.  Please call Rochelle at 415-713-0625 or Sheri at 415-850-4812 if you have any questions.

MARCH STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

Homeroom teachers identify Students of the Month at the end of each month.  We celebrate these students because they have exemplified living the St. Peter’s KEYS:

Knowledge feeds GROWTH. 

Every ACCOMPLISHMENT needs courage.

You are LOVE.

SERVICE UNITES.

KINDER - Gabriella Oliva is a very responsible, motivated, and hard-working student. She has the KEYS to accomplish by listening and communicating effectively in social and academic environments. She is a remarkable learner and challenges herself to be at her very best. For all these reasons and more, Gabriella is March's student of the month!    

1A – Aaron Mendoza is an excellent example of a student who is living out St. Peter's KEYS. Aaron comes to school everyday ready to learn and make his brain grow. His curiosity and enthusiasm for learning are contagious and he is a great motivator to those around him. Aaron is extremely kind and is always eager to help a friend in need. For these reasons, I am happy to announce that Aaron is first grade's student of the month.  

2A - Maria Espinoza is 2nd grade's student of the month. Maria has made so much progress this year. She tries her best and is not afraid of a challenge. She works well with others. Maria knows the importance of friendship and supports her friends and classmates in any way she can.   

3A - Angelo Moctezuma Bocanegra has been steadily improving during this third quarter. He works hard on staying focused on his classwork and consistently turning in his homework. He has made great strides at being neater and is aware that our room needs to be orderly and organized. Thank you, Angelo, for showing LOVE for your classmates.  Thank you for UNITING us by giving us reminders to be organized and tidy. 3A is ACCOMPLISHING and GROWING because of your example.

4A - Matthew Chirino-Sandoval is a dedicated and hard-working student. He works diligently through each problem, and applies himself in all areas. He believes in growth mindset and never stops trying! He is kind to all of his classmates, and shows his caring spirit in the way he interacts with others. He is a true bucket filler and an aspiring mathematician. He uses his critical thinking skills to solve our most difficult problems. Congratulations, Matthew!   

5A – Jayden Grajeda has accomplished incredible academic growth this year because he is open to new challenges. He always completes high-quality homework and classwork and is a great leader within his groups. We enjoy the clever jokes and intelligent questions Jayden brings to 5th grade. Keep it up Jayden!

6A - David Rojas has displayed several character strengths this year.  He has shared his artistic and creative talents in art elective, he has set an example of a student who follows technology use expectations, and has been honest with his teachers.  We enjoy his sense of humor and the joy that he brings to our classroom! Thank you for sharing your gifts with us, David!

7A - Abigail Becerra has been a shining example of a student who's living out St. Peter's School's KEYS.  She has shown courage in participating and sharing what she knows in class. She is an amazing friend who has shown qualities of kindness and forgiveness to others.  Keep up the good work Abigail!

8A - A responsible and diligent young lady, Nathalee Estrada is consistent both in her schoolwork and her dependability as a member of the class and school community. She is a team player who doesn't always seek attention, but works hard and is a positive influence on those around her.

8B - With optimism and an open heart and open mind, Odalis Alvarez continues to set goals for herself and face new challenges, like playing on the basketball team for the first time. She demonstrates an appreciation for others around her and continually serves the school, our classroom, and her community. She continues to grow into a faith-filled person who brings light and positivity to others.

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - This week, we are learning about objects we can see in the sky during the day or at night. We will read about what a little mole sees in the sky. Students will make predictions to guess what will happen next in the story and confirm or revise their predictions. In Math, we will sort, count, and compare measurements of objects.

1A - This week, we are reading, writing, and learning about what you can see in the sky. In religion, we are talking about the importance of kindness. In math, we are learning the values of different coins and practicing counting up different amounts. In science, we are using wind vanes to determine the direction the wind is blowing. In social studies, we continue to compare and contrast things from long ago and today. 

2A – We are reading “The Golden Flower,” a Taino Myth from Peru. We are eating fractions this week, and we will be observing what happened to our seeds in the garden. We will pray for loved ones during Lent, and talk about how we can be more kind and loving as well as donate to others.

3A – This week 3A will focus on The Annunciation to Mary by the angel Gabriel and The Stations of the Cross.  We will visit our church to walk the Stations and pray The Passion of our Lord. In Language, we will complete our review of compound words and take a 12 sentence dictation test which will assess short and long vowels as well as compound words and high frequency words for the third grade.  BIG testing week for the class.  Parents, please spend time practicing these very important language areas with your child.  We can only GROW and ACCOMPLISH with study and parent help.  Thank you, I know that they will do well because we're working together!

4A - Welcome to the 4th Quarter! We are now 5th Graders in Training. In Religion this week, we will focus on the parables. Parables are stories that Jesus taught us to help us learn a lesson about our faith and the way we treat others. In Math, we will transition to studying different types of graphs and fractions. We will continue to use our critical thinking skills through word problems! In Reading, we will begin our story of Me and Uncle Romie. During our station work, we will complete our book report on Wonder. In Social Studies, we will continue to learn about the Missions in California. We will be researching our Mission in class. In Science, we will focus on the planets, sun, and moon. We will begin to use our Reading logs again this week.

5A - Last week, 5th graders used pizza to start practicing the addition of fractions. This week, we'll build on that by learning how to add fractions with different denominators. In Language Arts, we'll be using the next stage of our Harry Potter novel study to discuss setting and how it affects stories. In social studies, our class is comparing and contrasting the life of regular people in the U.S. Colonies and England during the Revolutionary War. Make sure you're checking Class Dojo for photos and more updates from our classroom!

6A  Religion & Social Studies – 6th Grade will be starting off the 4th Quarter by setting personal and academic goals that will lead to a successful ending of the school year.    Language Arts – 6A is wrapping up our Poetry Unit this week, as we continue to analyze poems by great authors like Langston Hughes and Emily Dickinson. We will continue to review by playing poetry bingo, Kahoot, and Jeopardy in preparation for our final exam.   Math - For the start of the 4th Quarter, 6A will continue to express positive and negative fractions as decimals.  Science – Students will describe what determines the climate of an area.

7A   Religion -  Students will explore the Beatitudes as a guide to the values of the Kingdom of God.  Language Arts - Students are compiling all of their original poems they have composed over the past few weeks to create their final portfolio.  Math - 7A will continue to subtract linear equations.   Social Studies – Students are continuing to learn about the Renaissance, this week they will focus on the Protestant Reformation.  Science – Students continue to work through their genetics research projects and models!

8A/8B   Religion - This week, students will be analyzing about the "Trolley Car Dilemma" as part of their morality lesson.   Language Arts - Students are creating their final poem for their Poetry Portfolio, an unstructured poem.   Math - 8A and 8B will continue to solve system of equations algebraically.  Social Studies – Students will set 4th quarter goals and begin 4th quarter with a History Passion Project.   Science - Students are done with their egg drop projects and were VERY successful! Now it's time to start on the evaluation phase of our project!

REMINDERS

Mar. 27    Report Cards sent home

Mar. 28    8:30 AM, Lenten Reconciliation for 7th grade

Apr. 2      8:10 AM School Mass 

Apr. 3      Free Dress for No Tardies in March

Apr. 4      8:30 AM, Lenten Reconciliation for 8th grade

QUE PASA 3/20/2019 (English)

Dear Parents,

       With all the different responsibilities we have as parents, it is very easy for us to feel overwhelmed and tired. Yet let’s not forget how Jesus can be a source of strength and a loving comfort to us, and how we can follow his example to spread that love and be a positive example for our children. 

How true are Jesus’ words, which invite those who are tired and weary to come to Him to find rest! His arms outstretched on the cross show that no one is excluded from his love and his mercy, not even the greatest sinner: no one!

-Pope Francis, 11/12/16

Heavenly Father, your son’s death on the cross stands as a testament to your endless love and care for all of us. No one who seeks you out is excluded from your love, no matter what we have done. No one is cut off from your mercy, no matter how great our suffering. Give me the courage, Lord, to always look to Christ crucified as the promise of mercy for me. In this Lenten season, give me the confidence to trust that your love for me will never die. AMEN.

(from “The Joy of Lent: Encouragement and Daily Prayers”)

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez  

SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY

As part of our upcoming WCEA (Western Catholic Educational Association) school accreditation process, faculty and staff examined our school mission statement and philosophy.  The attached flyer contains our revised mission statement and philosophy, based on our Core Values to Grow, Accomplish, Love, Serve, and Unite.

RE-REGISTRATION FOR 2019-2020

The completed orange re-registration form for the upcoming school year is now past due.  Extras are available in the office. Please return the re-registration as soon as possible in order to help plan for the new school year.

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

The application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant for the 2019-2020 school year has now begun.  Please go on to mytads.comto begin the application process. Be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Please be sure you have completed the total process by the Archdiocese deadline—April 14, 2019.

BASIC FUND

Renewal families will be filling out their BASIC Fund Renewal Application at school on the following days:

·       Monday, March 25 from 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM

·       Tuesday, March 26 from 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM

·       Tuesday, March 26 from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM

·       Wednesday, March 27 from 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM

All student accounts must be current with no past due balances. Please be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Contact the school office if you have any questions.

FREE SPECIAL PROGRAMS!

THE LANTERN CENTER FOR HOSPITALITY AND EDUCATION offers the following FREE services:

·       English Classes for adults: Monday-Thursday from 10:00-11:30 AM

·       Computer Class for adults:  Mondays, 9:00-10:00 AM

·       Afternoon Activities for Families (Computer Access, English Practice, Homework help, Art & Games, Reading, Cooking): Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30-5:30 PM   

·       Children must be accompanied by parent or guardian.

THE LANTERN CENTER is located on 3106 Folsom Street in San Francisco.  For more information, call 415-401-7379.  ALL ARE WELCOME!

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - This week, we will learn about the symbols and places that represent the United States. We will sing the song, "You're a Grand Old Flag" and go over the colors in the U.S. flag. Then, we will read about a girl named Ana who travels to Washington, D.C. and discuss how symbols and special places represent our country. In Math, we will continue to count by ones and by tens to 100. After, students will learn to describe measurements of objects.

1A - This week we are reading, writing, and learning about how we classify and categorize things. In religion, we are continuing to celebrate the Lenten season. In math, we are completing our geometry unit and beginning our unit on money. In science, we are constructing kites and using what we've learned about weather to fly them. In social studies, we are comparing and contrasting how things are today and long ago. 

2A – We are reading “Setting the Rules.” We are measuring in inches and centimeters, and finding the difference between objects.  We will be observing what happened to our seeds in the garden. We will pray for loved ones during Lent and think about how we can be kinder.

3A – This week, we will mail our Animal Bio Book to the publisher. We are excited to see our work published. We should receive our completed book by the middle of April. It will be available for purchase by teachers, parents, and students for the low price of $20.00. In math, we will be taking our multiplication assessment and then moving on to division. In Religion, we will continue to learn about the Lenten season and Lenten practices. This means we'll pray more frequently, learn about and do more almsgiving and continue to try our hardest to keep our Lenten promises. Those may be performing random acts of kindness or making a sacrifice of some kind during this holy period. 

4A - I hope you had a nice long weekend! In Religion this week, we will continue to focus on the season of Lent and working to prepare our hearts for Jesus. We will be tested on our Lenten knowledge this week. In Reading, we will finish our novel Wonder. It has been a great unit for us, and we look forward to reading more novels together. We will complete an in-class book report on Wonder. In Math, we will be learning about the metric unit of length and working with meters, centimeters, and millimeters. In Social Studies, we will talk about the founding of the Missions. In Science, we will conclude our unit on Glaciers. Please continue to read each night for 20 minutes! 

5A - In science this week, 5th graders are investigating how different solutions reach their saturation point. In social studies, students will be mapping out the path of Paul Revere's famous ride. We'll also be adding and subtracting fractions in math and learning about relative pronouns in grammar. 

6A  Religion – Students will be preparing for Thursday's Lenten Reconciliation by reviewing the Act of Contrition.  Language Arts –6A is continuing the poetry unit and will be focusing on annotating poetry in order to identify poetic devices and themes. We will read poems by a diverse group of authors, such as Maya Angelou, Gary Soto, and Shel Silverstein. Students will also familiarize themselves with different poetic forms by writing haikus and odes.   Math – Students will express positive and negative fractions as decimals.  Social Studies – Students are finalizing their compare-and-contrast activity for Christianity and Judaism as part of the Ancient Hebrews Unit.   Science – Students will describe what determines the climate of an area. 

7A   Religion -  Students will pray for the grace to love others, using a meditation on a parable about the Kingdom of God.  Language Arts - Students are continuing to explore and develop their creativity in their Poetry Unit. They are finishing ballad poems, and will move on to the last style of poetry for the unit, limerick poems.  Math – Students will subtract linear expressions.  Social Studies – Students will end 3rd quarter by presenting their Renaissance research videos.   Science – Students are researching for their genetics research project and will begin building their Slides presentation and model.  

8A/8B   Religion - This week are learning about the Stations of the Cross and listening to some words spoken by Pope Francis on salvation!  Language Arts - Students are continuing to explore and exercise their creativity in their Poetry Unit. They have finished elegy poems and are moving on to romanticism poems.   Math – Students will solve systems of equations algebraically.   Social Studies – Students are ending 3rd quarter with a discussion and essay about different documents from George Washington's presidency.   Science - Students are completing prototypes of their egg drop protection devices, refining designs based on initial tests, and completing a final build for Friday's 30-foot egg drop!

REMINDERS

Mar. 21     8:30 AM, Lenten Reconciliation for 5th and 6th grades

Mar. 21    4A Field trip to Garden for the Environment

Mar. 22    END OF 3rd QUARTER

Mar. 24    9:30 AM, Sunday Family Mass

Mar. 25    12:30 Dismissal

Mar. 26    8:10 AM, School Mass

Mar. 27    Report Cards sent home

Mar. 28    8:30 AM, Lenten Reconciliation for 7th grade

QUE PASA 3/13/2019 (English)

Dear Parents,

        As parents, we strive to be role models of open hearts and open minds for our children.  Here at school, we encourage each other to develop a growth mindset and live our St. Peter’s School KEYS so that we can open our hearts and minds.  Lent pushes us to dig out of our souls all the things that have clogged our hearts, the little sins that we clench in our fists, keeping us from opening our hands, hearts, and minds freely. God is offering to not only lift the burden from our shoulders, but also to help in rebalancing our load in the future. Tossing those small bad habits, pushing aside bitterness and resentment so that we might love God with our whole heart, and with all our strength.

What is weighing you down? How might you prayerfully sort through what takes up room in your heart and mind? What habits and grudges can be cleared out, left behind?

God, take away what clutters our hearts, feed us with your Word, so that we might have the strength and freedom to love you with all our hearts, all our souls, all our being.

(Adapted from Daily Reflections for Lent: Not By Bread Alone)

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

AZTEC TREK

We appreciate all families who turned in all their AZTEC TREK fundraising money on time! Our Aztec Trek walk-a-thon and Game Day last Friday was a fun day filled with school spirit and the spirit to GROW, ACCOMPLISH, LOVE, SERVE, and UNITE! 

Congratulations to our individual fundraising winners!

1st place – Rio Rangel in 1A

2nd place – Wyatt Baldago in 5A

3rd place – Dominic Leonor in 1A and Isaac Leonor in 4A

Congratulations to our AZTEC TREK Class winners!

1st place – 4A

2nd place – 1A

3rd place – 3A and 7A

Raffle winners:

Movie tickets – Aurora Ramirez in 6A

$25 McDonald’s gift card – Isaac Leonor in 4A

Golden State Warriors gift pack – Mariah Ibarra-Febo in 3A

SF 49ers gift pack – Mariah Ibarra-Febo in 3A

Retro board games – Jaykob Offril in 4A

Sports board games – Jesus Lopez in 8A

Free Dress Passes – Amariz Araujo Ortega in KA and Wyatt Baldago in 5A

**If you have not yet turned in your mandatory minimum AZTEC TREK collection of $100, please do so immediately. Thank you for your cooperation! 

NO SCHOOL THIS FRIDAY

Since all teachers will be attending an In-Service this Friday, March 15, there is NO SCHOOL for this Friday.  

RE-REGISTRATION FOR 2019-2020

The orange re-registration form for the upcoming school year, along with the new tuition rates for 2019-2020, was sent home with Que Pasa.  Extras are available in the office. Please return the re-registration as soon as possible in order to help plan for the new school year.

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

The application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant for the 2019-2020 school year has now begun.  Please go on to mytads.comto begin the application process. Be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Please be sure you have completed the total process by the Archdiocese deadline—April 15, 2019.

BASIC FUND

New students entering for the 2019-2020 school year must complete the BASIC Fund Application no later than March 15, 2019. 

Renewal families will be filling out their BASIC Fund Renewal Application in March and April.  All student accounts must be current with no past due balances. Please be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Contact the school office if you have any questions.

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - This week, we will read about a boy whose daddy drives a big truck. We will make predictions to guess what will happen in the story. Then, as we read, we will stop to confirm our predictions and see if we were right or wrong. We will also learn about transportation and the vehicles people use to get from one place to another. In Math, we will focus on counting up to 100. Students will use their 100 chart for support during partner work.

1A - This week we are reading, writing, and learning about how people work with animals. In religion, we are continuing to learn about the significance of Lent. In math, we are sorting different solid objects by their attributes. In science, we are constructing pinwheels to measure the speed of the wind. In social studies, we are continuing our study of the US government. 

2A – We are reading “The Woodcutter's Gift” and measuring in inches, centimeters, and sometimes using yardsticks.  We will be observing what happened to our liquids in science. Students are so excited to go to mass and receive the Eucharist!

3A – In Math, 3A continues to practice multiplication and division facts for mastery.  We are also learning about fractional parts and symmetry.  In Language Arts, we will complete our books about our favorite animals and will send the finished product to the publisher at the end of this week. The students are really proud of their writing efforts.  In Religion, we are reviewing the Sacrament of Reconciliation in preparation for our Lenten Reconciliation this Thursday. 

4A - As we continue our Lenten journey with Jesus, we will be focusing on the different symbols of our Lenten season. We will also start to brainstorm an in-class service project. In Reading, we will finish our novel Wonder. The students have done a great job using comprehension skills and strategies for answering comprehension questions, comparing characters, and making connections to other texts, the world, and ourselves. In Math, we will continue to work on our Measurement Unit by learning about capacity and the metric system. In Social Studies, we will finish our mini-unit on the explorers: Francis Drake, Juan Cabrillo, and Sebastian Vincainzo. In Science, we will complete our study of glaciers and earthquakes. We look forward to our next unit of the Sun, Moon, and Planets.  

5A - This week, 5th graders will be examining compound predicates found within Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. Students will also challenge themselves to improve their writing by adding more "vivid verbs" and strong concluding sentences. We will learn about mixed numbers and begin adding fractions in math.

6A  Religion – Students are keeping track of Lenten promises and will begin preparing for next week's sacrament of Confession.   Language Arts – 6A has confronted their fears of public speaking, and students have been doing a great job on their presentations. We will finish the rest of our presentations on 20th century figures this week. We're continuing our introduction to poetry and will focus on identifying sound devices in both classic and modern forms of poetry.   Math - 6A will begin expressing positive and negative fractions as decimals.   Social Studies – Students are learning about Judaism as the religion of the Ancient Hebrews and will compare the traditions of Judaism to those of Christianity.  Science – Students will describe what determines the climate of an area.  

7A   Religion -  This week, students will take a Chapter Test in Religion.   Language Arts - The students are continuing to analyze and create their own poetry in their Poetry Unit. This week they've finished metaphorical poems and will move along with ballad poems.   Math - 7A will subtract linear expressions.   Social Studies – Students are finalizing their Renaissance research and group video project to present to the class.   Science – Now that they have tested their knowledge of genetics, students will now begin work on their genetics research project!

8A/8B   Religion - Students will be learning about forgiveness and how the Church responds to conflict.  Language Arts - The students are continuing to exercise their creativity as they progress in their Poetry Unit. This week they've finished ode poems and will move along with elegy poems.   Math - 8A and 8B will solve systems of equations algebraically and by graphing.   Social Studies – Students are teaching the class about the social, political, intellectual, cultural, and economic contexts of their assigned time period after the Constitution was written.  Science - Students will be hard at work learning about the laws of motion while working on their egg drop project!

REMINDERS

Mar. 14     8:30 AM, Lenten Reconciliation for 3rd and 4th grades 

Mar. 15     No School, Teacher In-Service

Mar. 19     8:10 AM, School Mass

Mar. 21     8:30 AM, Lenten Reconciliation for 5th and 6th grades

Mar. 21    4A Field trip to Garden for the Environment

Mar. 22    END OF 3rd QUARTER

QUE PASA 3/6/2019 (English)

Dear Parents,

        Today, Ash Wednesday, marks the beginning Lent. This is a special liturgical season when we take time to pray, reflect, repent, and renew so that we can grow closer to God as we prepare for the death and resurrection of Jesus.  Here is a reflection (from Daily Reflections for Lent: Not By Bread Alone 2019) to help us begin our journey through Lent with each other and with our children.  

Ash Wednesday is marked with a somber sign of our faith.  The cross on our forehead is meant to leave a lasting imprint deep within, like a spiritual tattoo that will linger long after we complete the 40-day course.  The sacrifices and prayers of the season help us clear a path, but we can’t stop there, not if we want to experience real transformation. God wants nothing less than our hearts broken open so that he might find a resting place within and make us whole. Yes, the exterior practices are important, but what matters most is what happens unseen within our hearts and souls. 

Heavenly Father, guide us in the right ways as we begin our Lenten journey. Give us the courage to allow ourselves to be transformed by your love. Help us to use our Lenten sacrifices to dig deeper into our spiritual center and carve out a space for you alone.  AMEN.

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

CONGRATULATIONS!

22 students on our St. Peter’s School family received the sacrament of First Holy Communion this past Saturday! We welcome them to God’s table as we begin our Lenten journey together.  Special thanks to Mrs. Schusteritsch, Sr. Lucy, Mrs. Toni Ortenzo, and Sr. Marian Rose as they prepared our First Communicants!

WELCOME TO THE SCHOOL FAMILY

Mrs. Fuaau, our 8A homeroom and 7/8 Language Arts teacher, gave birth to a baby boy—Gael Martinez Fuaau—on Monday, March 4!  Mrs. Fuaau and baby Gael are both doing well!

We warmly welcome Mr. Jack Casey to our school faculty.  Mr. Casey comes to St. Peter’s with a variety of teaching experiences, and he will be taking over Mrs. Fuaau’s teaching duties while she is on maternity leave for the remainder of this school year.  Thank you, Mr. Casey!

AZTEC TREK

Your child received a field trip permission form for the AZTEC Trek Walk-a-thon and games.  On March 8, students and teachers will be walking to and around Precita Park and will be participating in field day games at school.  If you have not already signed and returned this permission form, please do so immediately.

Also—if your child has not yet turned in the minimum $100 collection for the AZTEC Trek fundraiser, please submit this collection to the office immediately. This money is now overdue. Thank you for your cooperation on this matter! 

FREE DRESS FOR NO TARDIES

Tomorrow, March 7, is the Free Dress prize for students who had no tardies in the month of February. Your child’s teacher has notified students who have qualified for this prize.

RE-REGISTRATION FOR 2019-2020

The re-registration form for the upcoming school year, along with the new tuition rates for 2019-2020, were sent home with Que Pasa in February.  Extras are available in the office. Please return the re-registration form by March 13, 2019 in order to help plan for the new school year.

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

The application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant for the 2019-2020 school year has now begun.  Please go on to mytads.comto begin the application process. Be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Please be sure you have completed the total process by the Archdiocese deadline—April 14, 2019.

BASIC FUND

New students entering for the 2019-2020 school year must complete the BASIC Fund Application no later than March 15, 2019.  

Renewal families will be filling out their BASIC Fund Renewal Application in March and April.  All student accounts must be current with no past due balances. Please be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Contact the school office if you have any questions.

FREE SPECIAL PROGRAMS!

THE LANTERN CENTER FOR HOSPITALITY AND EDUCATION offers the following FREE services:

·       English Classes for adults: Monday-Thursday from 10:00-11:30 AM

·       Computer Class for adults:  Mondays, 9:00-10:00 AM

·       Afternoon Activities for Families (Computer Access, English Practice, Homework help, Art & Games, Reading, Cooking): Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30-5:30 PM   

·       Children must be accompanied by parent or guardian.

THE LANTERN CENTER is located on 3106 Folsom Street in San Francisco.  For more information, call 415-401-7379.  ALL ARE WELCOME!

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - This week, we will find out about more places where animals live. We will read "Bear Snores" and find out one kind of animal habitat. Then we will learn how to write questions and answers about where animals live. In Math, we will review subtraction and write numbers 19 and 20.

1A - This week we are reading, writing, and learning about insects. In religion, we are continuing to prepare for the Lenten season. In math we are beginning our unit on shapes. In science, we are continuing our study of air. In social studies, we are continuing our study on the branches of government. 

2A – We are reading “Brave Bessie,” and in math we are measuring in inches and centimeters. We will be checking out all kinds of rocks in science. Students will be going to mass and receiving the Eucharist as well as ashes on their foreheads on Wednesday as we begin the Lenten season. 

3A – In Language class, we are in the final stages of  our book project which will be published for purchase before the end of the school year. In Math, we are continuing to practice our multiplication facts through the use of flashcard study, STMath tablet work, homework study sheets, and classroom instruction. In Science, we are learning about women who have made contributions in education, medicine, art, and science. In Social Studies, we are learning about "The Father of Our Country," George Washington, the Washington Monument, and the Lincoln Memorial. 

4A - Happy March! In Religion, we will continue to focus on the Beatitudes. We will work on ways to act out the Beatitudes in our daily lives. In Reading, we will continue to focus on our novel Wonder. We are over halfway through our novel study, and have been working on comprehension strategies as well as developing our vocabulary. In Math, we are beginning our next unit of Measurement. We will continue to focus on our multiplication and division facts each day to make sure we retain the information. In Science, we will focus on earth's changing surface by studying glaciers and earthquakes. In Social Studies, we will continue learning about St. Junipero Serra and the founding of the Missions in California. Please encourage your child to read every night and to use STMath as a way to improve and challenge our Math skills. 

5A - This week, 5th graders have officially been accepted to Hogwarts! We're continuing our Harry Potter novel study by reading chapter 6 together and completing a special math activity. 5th graders will learn the conversion rate for Galleons, Sickles, and Knuts, and go school supply shopping! We're also going to use our knowledge of character traits to describe the book's 3 main characters. In math, we're learning about Least Common Multiples (LCMs) and Least Common Denominators (LCDs).  

6A  Religion – Students will be preparing for Lent by learning about the different types of Lenten promises and setting a personal Lenten promise.  Language Arts – We will be diving into the rich and beautiful world of poetry this week. Students will begin by analyzing the difference between literal and figurative meanings in language and an overview of poetic terms. Students will also try out their public speaking skills by presenting on their historical figures. We're excited to see all of the hard work students have put into researching and creating their Google Slides.   Math - This week 6A will begin comparing and ordering integers.  Social Studies – Students will be beginning their Ancient Hebrews Unit.   

7A   Language Arts - Students are continuing with their poetry unit. They had fun writing about themselves and a struggle they have faced in their "Selfie" poems. Now they are writing metaphorical poems as they also construct a poetry portfolio.  Math - 7A will add linear expressions.  Social Studies – Students are starting a Late Middle Ages stop motion video project about different events during the Late Middle Ages in Europe.  Science – Students are getting ready to test on genetics and heredity as they prepare to begin their research on genetic disorders.  

8A/8B   Religion - Students will brainstorm possible things they can do for this Lenten season and will learn about the history of the sacrament of penance.   Language Arts - Students are progressing with their poetry unit. They enjoyed writing and sharing about themselves and their heritage in their "Where I'm From" poems. Now they are writing ode and elegy poems as they continue to create their poetry portfolio.   Math - 8A and 8B will solve systems of equations by graphing.   Social Studies – Students are starting a SPICE (social, political, intellectual, cultural, and economic) context project about the first 5 presidents of the United States.  Science- Students will be introduced to the egg drop project...a project that introduces them to our physics semester.

REMINDERS

Mar. 7      Free Dress for No Tardies in February

Mar. 8      AZTEC Trek Walk-a-Thon and Game Day 

Mar. 12    8:10 AM School Mass

Mar. 14    8:30 AM, Lenten Reconciliation for 3rd and 4th  grades 

Mar. 15    No School, Teacher In-Service

QUE PASA 2/27/2019 (English)

Dear Parents,

       This coming Saturday, 23 students in our St. Peter’s School family will be receiving the sacrament of First Holy Communion!  Communion is a sacred time for a follower of Jesus. Each time we receive this most blessed sacrament, we should spend some reflective moments in self-examination to prepare for this beautiful time of remembrance.

      Let us keep our First Communicants in our prayers in their final days of Communion preparation, and use this time for ourselves to remind us of the gift of salvation that Jesus gave to us all.

Lord Jesus,

Bless the children coming forward to receive Holy Communion for the first time.  May this be an initial step into a lifelong love of the Eucharist.  Give them a hunger for this sacred food so that they turn to you for comfort, guidance, and wisdom as they grow into full discipleship.  Thank you for their innocence and goodness. May their hands, extended in anticipation of your Body and Blood, inspire ALL of us to cherish this sacred sacrament.  AMEN.

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

THANK YOU!

Thank you to all the parent volunteers and donations that made our Annual Family Dinner and Dance a successful event last Saturday!  Special school events like these would not be possible without the help of parent volunteers. If you’d like to help plan future school community events, please contact Mrs. Jimenez at sjimenez@sanpedro.org. 

AZTEC TREK

Last week, your child received a field trip permission form for the AZTEC Trek Walk-a-thon and games.  On March 8, students and teachers will be walking to and around Precita Park and will be participating in field day games at school.  If you have not already signed and returned this permission form, please do so by this Friday, March 1.

Also—if your child has not yet turned in the minimum $100 collection for the AZTEC Trek fundraiser, please submit this collection to the office immediately. This money is now overdue. Thank you for your cooperation on this matter! 

LIFETOUCH SPRING PICTURES

Students have the option of taking Spring Pictures tomorrow, on Thursday, February 28.  If your child will be taking photos that day, he/she may be in appropriate free dress.

RE-REGISTRATION FOR 2019-2020

Last week, the orange re-registration form for the upcoming school year, along with the new tuition rates for 2019-2020, were sent home with Quye Pasa.  Extras are available in the office. Please return the re-registration form by March 13, 2019 in order to help plan for the new school year.

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

The application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant for the 2019-2020 school year has now begun.  Please go on to mytads.comto begin the application process. Be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Please be sure you have completed the total process by the Archdiocese deadline—April 14, 2019.

BASIC FUND

New students entering for the 2019-2020 school year must complete the BASIC Fund Application no later than March 15, 2019. 

Renewal families will be filling out their BASIC Fund Renewal Application in March and April.  All student accounts must be current with no past due balances. Please be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Contact the school office if you have any questions.

FREE SPECIAL PROGRAMS!

THE LANTERN CENTER FOR HOSPITALITY AND EDUCATION offers the following FREE services:

·       English Classes for adults: Monday-Thursday from 10:00-11:30 AM

·       Computer Class for adults:  Mondays, 9:00-10:00 AM

·       Afternoon Activities for Families (Computer Access, English Practice, Homework help, Art & Games, Reading, Cooking): Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30-5:30 PM   

·       Children must be accompanied by parent or guardian.

THE LANTERN CENTER is located on 3106 Folsom Street in San Francisco.  For more information, call 415-401-7379.  ALL ARE WELCOME!

FEBRUARY STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

Homeroom teachers identify Students of the Month at the end of each month.  We celebrate these students because they have exemplified living the St. Peter’s KEYS:

Knowledge feeds GROWTH. 

Every ACCOMPLISHMENT needs courage.

You are LOVE.

SERVICE UNITES.

KINDER - Camila Soto Hernandez is an incredible role model and a diligent student. She has the KEYS to grow by facing challenges with optimism and faith in God. She works hard and wants to succeed and grow in every way she can. As shown through her substantial growth. Camila's work ethic and focus on doing well is an inspiration to her classmates.

1A – Sonia Estrada is a shining example of a student who is always trying to live out St. Peter's KEYS. She lights up the room with her smile and positivity. Sonia always shows love for God and others. This is seen in the countless kind acts that Sonia does for those around her. Sonia is always willing to try something new and is not afraid of a challenge. 

2A - Ella Jimenez loves learning! She helps her classmates when they need it and she always does her homework. She enjoys playing with her friends and works cooperatively in groups. Ella focuses on her work and listens attentively.  

3A - Although he was SOTM for January, Isaiah Arguello has continued to grow soooo much farther that he was voted to continue on for this month!  He has ACCOMPLISHED academically, shown LOVE to his table partners and his teacher. He has been of SERVICE during the time that a substitute was needed in the classroom as well as UNITING the class for our various projects. Isaiah we are all very proud of you because you have GROWN into an exceptional third grader. 

4A - Nelly Alfaro Ortiz comes to school each day with a smile on her face. She is determined. Nelly is open to new challenges! Long division is no easy task, and Nelly worked hard to master this skill! She is respectful to her fellow students and to her teachers, and is willing to help anyone in need. She welcomes every she meets with a kind spirit and is a true bucket filler! She is an aspiring author and using her writing skills to bring joy to our classroom.

5A – Brisia Castillo works so hard in all subjects and has her homework every single day. Her openness to new challenges has helped her grow tremendously as a reader and mathematician this year. Brisia always follows the classroom rules, and she is always willing to show her classmates love by helping when needed. Her kind spirit makes 5th grade a better place to learn every single day! Yay Brisia!

6A - Guadalupe Gonzalez has been a wonderful example of a student with the KEYS this year! She has accomplished so much this year and continue to grow! Guadalupe is an awesome support to her teachers and her classmates, asks great questions, and does not give up in the face of challenges! Thank you for your hard work and positive attitude this year Guadalupe, we are lucky to have you.

7A - Gabriel Sembrana lives out St. Peter's School's KEYS each and every day. He brings to the classroom an optimism and energy that is always positive. He is a good friend, teammate, and classmate. Keep up the good work Gabriel! 

8A - As an enthusiastic learner, Oscar Castaneda constantly grows by embracing new experiences and faces challenges with optimism. He is willing to ask those difficult questions and use all the necessary tools to achieve success. Oscar also spreads love and unity by continuously strengthening our school community as an ambassador, tour guide and Student Council officer, ALL with a smile on his face. 

8B - Emilio Ramirez has shown us that when you set goals and embrace new experiences, you can accomplish and grow. Emilio lives our core values by demonstrating critical thinking and communicating effectively. He faces challenges with optimism and will do great things when he moves on from St. Peter's.

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - This week, we will read a story about taking care of different kinds of pets. As good readers, we will make predictions, think aloud, and make connections. We will continue to work on our handwriting and identify the upper and lowercase forms of Gg. In Math, we will add numbers and objects to make 20. Parents, please help your child learn their sight words: he, she, with, was, for, have, of, they. 

1A - This week in first grade we are reading, writing, and learning about how animals survive in nature. In religion, we are starting to prepare for the Lenten season. In math, we are finishing up our addition and subtraction extension. In science, we are beginning our study of matter and the different phases. In social studies, we are learning about the different branches of government. 

2A – We are reading “Golden Flower” and “Why Fir Tree Keeps his Leaves.” We are wrapping up our coins unit and moving onto measuring with inches.  In science, we are going to see what happened to our solids in water after 2 weeks of soaking and check our lettuce plants in the garden. Students are preparing to receive the Eucharist for the first time, remembering Jesus and his sacrifices for us, and the special meaning of mass. The students are very excited about making their First Communion! They will soon be able to receive the Eucharist with you at mass. Please talk with your child so they are not anxious. See you tonight, February 27, at 5:45 p.m. in St. Peter's Church for First Communion rehearsal and parent meeting.

3A – In Language class this week, 3A will continue writing non-fiction stories about their favorite animals. In Math, we continue studying multiplication.  We are examining arrays, multiplication and division fact families, and tablet work with concentration on multiplication.  We will continue our assessment of High Frequency 3rd grade words during Spelling class.  In Religion, we are learning about the various types of prayer.

4A - This week in Religion, we will be focusing on the "modern day" Beatitudes. How can we connect the Beatitudes to our own lives? In Math, we will be completing our Division unit! The students have done a great job on a very difficult concept. In Reading, we will continue reading our novel, Wonder. As we continue through Part 2, students will be bringing home nightly questions. In Social Studies, we will continue to learn about St. Junipero Serra and the Mission Era. In Science, we will be focusing on earthquakes and connecting what we learned on our field trips to our labs. Please continue to read for 20 minutes every night! 

5A - Fifth grade is finishing February by learning all about equivalent fractions in math! 5th graders will do some special activities with food and fractions this week. We'll also revise our persuasive essays before officially publishing them, and work on analyzing character motivations as we continue with chapter 5 and 6 of Harry Potter.

6A  Religion – Students will be making cards for their buddies who are celebrating their First Holy Communion this weekend.   Language Arts – Students are wrapping up their Google Slideshows this week. They continue to practice the challenging rules of bibliographies and also confront most people's biggest phobia: public speaking! Students will learn how to communicate clearly and effectively, with a composed and professional manner.   Math – Students will find the absolute value of an integer.   Social Studies – Students continue to learn about the achievements of Ancient Civilizations.   Science – 6A students will relate thunderstorms to tornados.

7A   Religion - 7A will recognize Jesus' call to build a just society that honors and promotes human dignity.  Language Arts - Students have finished their Selfie Poem, describing an obstacle, its difficulty, and ways one has learned from it. They will have an opportunity to share their creations with the class. Students will also apply the unique characteristics of poetry by reading and annotating poems.   Math – Students will add linear expressions.   Social Studies – Students will learn about the Black Death and how the disease and the effects it had on Europe.  Science – Students create a family tree and trace inherited traits over a few generations! 

8A/8B   Religion - In eighth grade religion this week students will be taking their ACRE test!   Language Arts - Students have begun their Poetry Unit. They have reviewed the different techniques, characteristics, and forms. They are now beginning the creative process by composing a "Where I'm From" Poem. Thank you to all those who watched the 8th graders Final Zoot Suit Performance! They did an incredible job embodying the Pachuco culture, from the way that they dressed to the way that they danced!   Math – Students will continue to write an equation of a line.   Social Studies – Students are finishing the film Selma and will finish the Constitution unit with an essay about freedoms and responsibilities.  Science - Students continue to explore energy as they prepare to face off with gravitational energy in their egg drop project.

REMINDERS

Feb. 27     5:45 PM, First Communion rehearsal and Parent  Meeting in church

Feb. 28     LifeTouch Spring Pictures (Optional)

Mar. 2      10:00 AM, First Holy Communion Mass    

Mar. 6      8:10 AM, Ash Wednesday School Mass

Mar. 7      Free Dress for No Tardies in February

Mar. 8      AZTEC Trek Walk-a-Thon and Game Day 

QUE PASA 2/20/2019 (English)

Dear Parents,

       Even after celebrating Presidents’ Day this past long weekend, let us continue to remember our nation’s leaders, service men and women, and even ourselves as Christian citizens.  Together, let us offer this prayer (from unlockingthebible.org):

Dear God,

Thank you for your common grace and every good gift.  We know freedom, industry, jobs, healthcare, and a stable economy come at no small cost. Thank you for the men and women who’ve sacrificed to serve our Presidents and country by protecting and leading us. Thank you for making your “sun rise on the evil and on the good, and for sending rain on the just and on the unjust” (Matthew 5:45). You show your goodness and kindness through these common, good gifts.

Show us how we can contribute, serve, speak, and act in a way that exalts Christ (Colossians 3:17).  We want to do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to you, Father, through him. We want to use our gifts and opportunities to better our country and ultimately honor Jesus’ name.  May your Church be the hands and feet of Christ to our nation.

We ask this in your holy name.  AMEN.

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

AZTEC TREK

Your child has received a collection envelope and flyer for the AZTEC TREK.  Students and families can help support our school by collecting pledges for our walk-a-thon and game day.  This is our only mandatory school fundraiser, and it helps to keep St. Peter’s School’s tuition the lowest in the Archdiocese.  The minimum mandatory amount to be collected by each student is $100, but the more money a student collects, the more prizes and class points can be earned!  The due date for all money to be turned in is this Friday, February 22. Thank you in advance for your support!

FAMILY DINNER AND DANCE
Join us at our annual Family Dinner and Dance!  This year, it will be held this Saturday, February 23.  Ticket forms were sent home last week and are also available in the office.  Tickets are limited, so don’t wait until the last minute!  

FAMILY MASS

This Sunday, February 24 is our Sunday Family Mass at 9:30 AM.  Students who attend mass in full uniforms will receive a free dress pass for the following Monday.

LIFETOUCH SPRING PICTURES

Students have the option of taking Spring Pictures next week on Thursday, February 28.  If your child will be taking photos that day, he/she may be in appropriate free dress.

RE-REGISTRATION FOR 2019-2020

Being sent home with Que Pasa is the re-registration form for the upcoming school year, along with the new tuition rates for 2019-2020.  Please return the re-registration form by March 13, 2019 in order to help plan for the next school year. 

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

The application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant for the 2019-2020 school year has now begun.  Please go on to mytads.comto begin the application process. Be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Please be sure you have completed the total process by the Archdiocese deadline—April 14, 2019.

BASIC FUND

New students entering for the 2019-2020 school year must complete the BASIC Fund Application no later than March 15, 2019. 

Renewal families will be filling out their BASIC Fund Renewal Application in March and April.  All student accounts must be current with no past due balances. Please be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Contact the school office if you have any questions.

FREE SPECIAL PROGRAMS!

THE LANTERN CENTER FOR HOSPITALITY AND EDUCATION offers the following FREE services:

·       English Classes for adults: Monday-Thursday from 10:00-11:30 AM

·       Computer Class for adults:  Mondays, 9:00-10:00 AM

·       Afternoon Activities for Families (Computer Access, English Practice, Homework help, Art & Games, Reading, Cooking): Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30-5:30 PM   

·       Children must be accompanied by parent or guardian.

THE LANTERN CENTER is located on 3106 Folsom Street in San Francisco.  For more information, call 415-401-7379.  ALL ARE WELCOME! 

The LANTERN CENTER is hosting a Workers’ Rights Workshop on Tuesday, February 26 from 10:15-11:30 AM.  Mujeres Unidas y Activas will be making a special presentation.

UNIFORM CHECK-IN

Please ensure that your child follows uniform policy as posted by the school office and stated in the school handbook.  All undershirts, including long-sleeve undershirts, should be white.  If your daughter wears tights, they should be solid black or white and extend to the ankle.  Socks must be black or white and extend above the ankle.  Shoes may not have blue or red on them, and boots may not be worn.

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - This week, we will write about an animal and create an animal card for it. We will begin by brainstorming our ideas on a word web. Also, we will learn about baby animals; discover how their behavior and appearance are the same and different. In Math, we will count and write numbers 15-18. Parents, please continue to help your child with homework. Thank you for all that you do! 

1A - This week we are reading, writing, and learning about how different animals work together in the wild. In religion, we are continuing our study of the Sacrament of Baptism. In math, we are working on subtracting from larger numbers. In science, we are finishing our study of the moon. In social studies, we are reading about U.S. Presidents. 

2A – We are reading “Grace for President.” For math, keep counting with quarters, dimes, nickels, pennies, half dollars, and dollar bills. (Please let your child play with coins!). We are going to see what happened to our solids in water in science. We are learning about the Eucharist--we remember the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. The students are getting excited about making their First Communion! Mark your calendar for First Communion rehearsal meeting next Wednesday, February 27 at 5:45 PM in St. Peter's Church.

3A – 3A is going on a field trip this Thursday to the California Academy of Sciences.  We will take in a tremendous amount of KNOWLEDGE. We will learn about our Solar System in the Planetarium.  We will observe a webcam of the coral reef in the aquarium. Lastly, we will walk through the academy's rainforest and discover many fascinating creatures and plant life.  When we return we will begin an investigation of all three areas that we visited and do several research activities.   

4A - I hope you had a nice President's Day weekend! This week in Religion, we will be focusing on the Beatitudes. We want to live out the Beatitudes each day to become closer to God. In Reading, we will begin Part 2 of Wonder. We are working on our comprehension skills and developing our vocabulary. In Math, we will continue with long division and work on long division word problems. In Science, we will focus on glaciers and earthquakes and study how both have changed earth's surface. In Social Studies, we will be discussing St. Junipero Serra and the missions. Our mission project is coming home soon! Please remember our cereal box book report is due on Monday, March 4th. 

5A - This week in math, 5th graders are building their fraction sense by practicing placing fractions closer to 0, 1/2, or 1 on a number line. We're now on chapter 4 of Harry Potter and are starting an imaginative writing activity inspired by the novel. In social studies, students will learn about the causes of the Revolutionary War. 

6A  Religion – Students will have their 9th visit with Paula Pardini as part of their Building Bridges program. Her final visit will be March 4th.  Language Arts – Students continue to research their historical figures and are finding out quite a few interesting facts about these inspiring people. This week we'll focus on using correct citations and learn the rules of creating a bibliography and why it's so important in academic writing. Students will also learn a key idea in creating slide show presentations: simpler is better!   Math- 6A will use integers to represent real-world problems.   Social Studies – Students are researching SPICE (social, political, intellectual, cultural, and economic) details of their assigned Ancient Chinese Dynasty. They will share their research with their classmates this week!   

7A   Language Arts - Students are continuing their unit on Poetry. After reviewing different poem techniques and characteristics, they will begin the creative process by composing a Selfie Poem.   Math - 7A will simplify algebraic expressions.   Social StudiesStudents will begin designing their family shield - inspired by the Crusaders during the Middle Ages.  Science – Students are breeding their monsters with another monster and following inheritance of traits over two generations of monsters! 

8A/8B   Religion - This week in eighth grade religion students will be preparing for their ACRE test which they will be taking next week!   Language Arts - Students are finalizing the play Zoot Suit with a culminating 1940's Dress-Up Presentation and Swing Dance Performance. They have researched the Pachuco style and participated in dance lessons this past week. They will have their final performance this Thursday, February 21. ¡Vamos a bailar el swing!   Math - Students will write an equation of a line.   Social Studies– Students will complete their Constitution by the end of next week by reflecting on how the Constitution is followed today and the responsibilities that come with the freedoms that are listed in the document. 8th Grade will also watch the film Selma in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King's efforts to pass the 24th amendment and change voting laws in the United States.   Science - Students are beginning their study of different types of energy and transitioning into their next project: The Egg Drop.

REMINDERS

Feb. 22      AZTEC Trek Money Due

Feb. 23      5:00-8:00 PM, Family Dinner and Dance

Feb. 24      9:30 AM, Sunday Family Mass

Feb. 25      12:30 Dismissal

Feb. 26      8:10 AM, School Mass

Feb. 27      5:45 PM, First Communion rehearsal and Parent Meeting

Feb. 28     LifeTouch Spring Pictures  (Optional)

Mar. 2      10:00 AM, First Holy Communion Mass      

QUE PASA 2/13/2019 (English)

Dear Parents,

       Tomorrow we celebrate Valentine’s Day, a day that we celebrate by sharing special notes of friendship and love.  February is also the month of the Holy Family, a family that we could look towards as an example of unconditional love.  Below is a prayer the we can offer together, to remind us of our love for our family, and to remind us that we are a school family working together to help our children open their hearts and minds.  As stated in our school philosophy: We are a family--somos una familia--with parents, students and educators working together.

JESUS, Son of God and Son of Mary, bless our family. Graciously inspire in us the unity, peace, and mutual love that you found in your own family in the little town of Nazareth.

MARY, Mother of Jesus and Our Mother, nourish our family with your faith and your love. Keep us close to your Son, Jesus, in all our sorrows and joys.

JOSEPH, Foster-father to Jesus, guardian and spouse of Mary, keep our family safe from harm. Help us in all times of discouragement or anxiety.

HOLY FAMILY OF NAZARETH, make our family one with you. Help us to be instruments of peace. Grant that love, strengthened by grace, may prove mightier than all the weaknesses and trials through which our families sometimes pass. May we always have God at the center of our hearts and homes until we are all one family, happy and at peace in our true home with you.   AMEN.

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

AZTEC TREK

Your child has received a collection envelope and flyer for the AZTEC TREK.  Students and families can help support our school by collecting pledges for our walk-a-thon and game day.  This is our only mandatory school fundraiser, and it helps to keep St. Peter’s School’s tuition the lowest in the Archdiocese.  The minimum mandatory amount to be collected by each student is $100, but the more money a student collects, the more prizes and class points can be earned!  The due date for all money to be turned in is next week--Friday, February 22. Thank you in advance for your support!

FAMILY DINNER AND DANCE
See the attached flyer and ticket order form for our annual Family Dinner and Dance!  This year, it will be held on Saturday, February 23.  Tickets are limited, so purchase your tickets early!

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

The application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant for the 2019-2020 school year has now begun.  Please go on to mytads.comto begin the application process. Be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Please be sure you have completed the total process by the Archdiocese deadline—April 14, 2019.

BASIC FUND

New students entering for the 2019-2020 school year must complete the BASIC Fund Application no later than March 15, 2019.  

Renewal families will be filling out their BASIC Fund Renewal Application in March and April.  All student accounts must be current with no past due balances. Please be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Contact the school office if you have any questions.

UNIFORM CHECK-IN

Please ensure that your child follows uniform policy as posted by the school office and stated in the school handbook.  All undershirts, including long-sleeve undershirts, should be white.  If your daughter wears tights, they should be solid black or white and extend to the ankle.  Socks must be black or white and extend above the ankle.  Shoes may not have blue or red on them, and boots may not be worn.

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - This week, we will continue to name different kinds of weather. We will read a poem about weather, and how weather affects people and places. We will also write a weather report and draw a picture to go with it. In Math, we will continue to identify numbers, add and subtract. 

1A - This week we are reading, writing, and learning about how animals' bodies help them. We are working on words with the long asound with the ai and ay spelling pattern, such as in words like rain and play. In religion we are continuing our study of the Sacrament of Baptism.  In math, we are working on the addition and subtraction of larger numbers. In science, we are continuing our study of the moon. In social studies, we are learning about and celebrating Valentine's Day. 

2A – This week, we are reading poetry. KEEP COUNTING with quarters, dimes, nickels, and pennies (please let your child play with coins!). We are going to be investigating solids and water in science. We are making timelines of our lives. We are learning about the Eucharist and Jesus' sacrifice for us. 

3A – This week in Science, we are continuing our study of crayfish. Some of our investigation is focusing on how they raise their offspring, how they protect themselves, and how they get their food. In math, we will focus on fact families in multiplication and the 0's and 1's multiplication rules.  Please help your child by practicing the memorization of the basic multiplication facts.    

4A - Happy Valentine's Day! This week in Religion, we will focus on the Beatitudes. Knowing and living the Beatitudes will help strengthen our faith and bring us closer to Jesus. In Reading, we will continue to focus on our novel Wonder. We are working to develop new vocabulary, comprehension skills, and analyzing characters. In Math, we will continue our quest to master division! Long division is a tricky math skill, and we are working diligently to understand the correct steps. In Social Studies, we will return back to our computer program and begin to focus on Junipero Serra. In Science, we will continue to focus on our energy unit and recap our field trip to the California Academy of Sciences. 

5A - This week, 5th grade is officially kicking off our fractions unit! We're starting off by learning how to find the greatest common factor of 2 numbers. In Language Arts, we'll wrap up our persuasive writing unit and start our class novel study of the first Harry Potter.

6A  Religion – Students will be locating Bible verses about God's love in the spirit of Valentine's Day. Language Arts – Students are continuing their non-fiction unit with a research project on a historical figure. Students will learn how to gather information from credible sources, avoid plagiarism by rephrasing and synthesizing information, use correct citations, and design a professional and clear slide presentation. This is a challenging project that will really help our minds to grow!   Math - Students will continue to divide mixed numbers and begin using integers to represent real world situations.  Social Studies – Students will be researching ancient Chinese dynasties for a group research project.  Science – Students will describe how rain, hail, sleet, and snow develop.

7A   Religion -  This week, students will take a Religion test. Language Arts - Students have finalized their reading on Freak the Mighty. They will now transition to the Introduction to their Poetry Unit.   Math - 7A will simplify algebraic expressions and add linear equations.  Social Studies – Students will be studying the Black Death and how this event changed the history of Europe.Science – Students continue their study of genetics and look to create offspring of their own monsters!

8A/8B   Religion - Students will discuss the importance of peacefully resolving disagreements, which relates to our new chapter focused on the Protestant Reformation.  Language Arts - Students are finalizing their reading on Zoot Suit. As the trial comes to a close for the Pachucos, students will create a Letter of Appeal on behalf of a character in the play. They will use evidence from the text and elements of an appeal.  Math – 8A and 8B will continue to graph a function using the x- and y- intercepts and write linear equations.  Social Studies – Students are finishing the presentation of their amendment speeches.  Science - Students are done with the chemistry portion of their school year and are now heading into studies of physics. First thing they will study: the laws of motion.

REMINDERS

Feb. 18      Presidents’ Day Holiday, No School

Feb. 19      8:10, AM School Mass

Feb. 20      School Panoramic Photo Day

Feb. 22      AZTEC Trek Money Due

Feb. 23      5:00-8:00 PM, Family Dinner and Dance

Feb. 24      9:30 AM, Sunday Family Mass

Feb. 25      12:30 Dismissal

QUE PASA 2/6/2019 (English)

Dear Parents,

       It’s hard to believe that it’s already February!  This week, we reach our 100th day of school.  It’s a day to celebrate our accomplishments, but also an opportunity to reflect on our learning.  We continue to promote and practice a Growth Mindset--to model to our children to challenge ourselves and show how we can grow by learning from our mistakes and to reflect on how “Knowledge feeds GROWTH.”  Yet let’s not neglect our spiritual growth.  I offer these petitions to help keep our spirits strong and faithful: 

We lay our prayers before the Lord, who gives us strength.

We pray that those who lead us in faith and serve our Church, Pope Francis, our bishops, and pastors continue to be guided by the Holy Spirit.

We pray for national, state, and local leaders, that their work is focused on their desire to serve.

We pray for the students, families, faculty, and staff of our school, that we never forget our call to discipleship.

Guide us so that we may grow closer to you, O Lord.

In the power of your Spirit and in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, we pray.  AMEN.

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

AZTEC TREK

Your child has received a collection envelope and flyer for the AZTEC TREK.  Students and families can help support our school by collecting pledges for our walk-a-thon and game day.  This is our only mandatory school fundraiser, and it helps to keep St. Peter’s School’s tuition the lowest in the Archdiocese.  The minimum mandatory amount to be collected by each student is $100, but the more money a student collects, the more prizes and class points can be earned!  The due date for all money to be turned in is Friday, February 22. Thank you in advance for your support!

100th DAY CELEBRATION

To commemorate our 100th Day of School, students may come to school dressed like they are 100 years old this Friday, February 8.  In the afternoon, students in grades Kinder through 5th will also participate in 100th day “stations.”

FAMILY DINNER AND DANCE
See the attached flyer and ticket order form for our annual Family Dinner and Dance!  This year, it will be held on Saturday, February 23.  Tickets are limited, so purchase your tickets early!

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

The application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant for the 2019-2020 school year has now begun.  Please go on to mytads.comto begin the application process. Be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Please be sure you have completed the total process by the Archdiocese deadline—April 14, 2019.

BASIC FUND

New students entering for the 2019-2020 school year must complete the BASIC Fund Application no later than March 15, 2019. 

Renewal families will be filling out their BASIC Fund Renewal Application in March and April.  All student accounts must be current with no past due balances. Please be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Contact the school office if you have any questions.

UNIFORM CHECK-IN

Please ensure that your child follows uniform policy as posted by the school office and stated in the school handbook.  All undershirts, including long-sleeve undershirts, should be white.  If your daughter wears tights, they should be solid black or white and extend to the ankle.  Socks must be black or white and extend above the ankle.  Shoes may not have blue or red on them, and boots may not be worn.

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - This week in Kindergarten, we are learning about weather and how it can affect people and places. We will read about the rainy season in a part of Africa. We will read Rain by Manya Stong, which is a fantasy story. Students will be reminded that fantasy stories are made up and have characters, people, or animals who are not real. Then students will listen as I read and find out how the weather changes in the story. After, we will write about what we like to do on a rainy day. We will use a word web to brainstorm our ideas before writing a personal narrative. In math, we will continue to use ten frame charts when adding. Students will use counters and beads for support. 

1A - This week in first grade we are reading and discussing the ways that we get our food. We are practicing words that end in -ookand -ood. In religion, we are naming special gifts that we should thank God for. In math, we are working on counting by 2s, 5s, and 10s. In science, we are observing the moon and its different phases. In social studies, we are learning about Chinese New Year.

2A - We are reading and acting out 2 folktales, “How the Beetle got Her Colors” and “How the Finch Got its Colors.” KEEP COUNTING with quarters, dimes, nickels, and pennies (please let your child play with coins!). We are going to be investigating solids and water in science. Student Council members will visit us to talk about their role in student government. We are talking about making better choices and preparing for First Reconciliation on February 6 at 5:45 PM in St. Peter's Church. Please talk with your child about Reconciliation so they are not anxious.

3A – 3A continues to work on comprehension and academic vocabulary for Mr. Popper's Penguins. We are nearing the end of this twenty chapter book and the kiddos are thoroughly enjoying it. We will have our assessment of this book next week. In Math class, we will begin working on multiplication in class as well as in our homework assignments. Parents, please practice the basic multiplication facts nightly with your children. In Science, our crayfish have finally arrived!!!! We are investigating and learning about them in our Science lab on Tuesdays and Thursdays. We will continue to learn about their habitats and body parts for this month and much of the month of March. Ask your children about all that they have discovered about these fascinating crustaceans. 

4A - Happy 100th Day of School! The 4th Graders have been working for 100 days to get smarter and build their mental stamina. This week, we will finish our unit on the Sacraments in Religion. In Reading, we will continue to focus on our book Wonder. The students are doing a great job of reading the novel, as well as using their comprehension skills to focus on character development and plot. In Math, we are moving into long division. We are focusing on each step, and are encouraging each other to use the steps as additional support. In Science, we will focus on our field trip to the California Academy of Sciences (Thursday, February 7th). In Social Studies, we will complete our poster projects.

5A - This is a big week for 5th grade! We're wrapping up our long division math unit. Students will show off all the skills they've learned on an assessment.  In Language Arts, we're starting our novel study of Harry Potter! I'm so excited to introduce 5th graders to this magical world that will expand their reading comprehension skills. 

6A  Religion – Students are working in groups to define and present the important vocabulary terms and religious figures from their assigned chapter in Blest Are We.   Language Arts – Students will be analyzing how advertisements try to influence us using the rhetorical techniques of ethos, pathos, and logos. We'll also be creating our own advertisements using these techniques.   Social Studies – Students will begin learning about the physical geography of Ancient China and will have a Lunar New Year celebration on Friday, February 8th. 

7A   Language Arts - Students are finalizing their reading of Freak the Mighty. They will continue to respond to a series of comprehension questions to ensure understanding of the overall content. They will also participate in post-reading activities to end the novel.   Social Studies – Students will be learning about the physical geography of Europe and the early Middle Ages.  Science – Students are now committed to learning about heredity and genetics. This week they will create monsters using a Punnett Square. 

8A/8B   Religion - Students will be learning about the meaning and importance that spiritual devotions have in their personal faith life.   Language Arts - Students are continuing their reading on Zoot Suit. As the trial continues for the Pachucos, students will create a Letter of Appeal on behalf of a character in the play. They will use evidence from the text and elements of an appeal to complete.    Social Studies – Students will be studying the Bill of Rights and giving a two minute speech convincing their classmates to pass their amendment.  Science - Students are now done with their rockets and the analysis portion begins before starting our semester of Physics.

REMINDERS

Feb. 4-15      STAR Testing Window #3

Feb. 6           Free Dress for No Tardies in January

Feb. 6           5:45 PM, First Reconciliation in Church 

Feb. 7           4A Field Trip to the Academy of Sciences

Feb. 8           100th Day Celebration; Dress Like You’re 100 Years Old!

Feb. 12         8:10 AM School Mass

Feb 12          5A Field Trip to 826 Valencia

QUE PASA 1/30/2019 (English)

Dear Parents,

       Happy Catholic Schools Week!  This week, we’ve been taking the time to reflect on Catholic education and all the ways that we learn to grow, accomplish, love, serve, and unite here at St. Peter’s School. We are thankful that here, both our faith and our minds can grow.  In gratitude, I offer this prayer (adapted from www.thereligionteacher.com): 

Almighty Father,

You sent forth your Son as a beacon of hope for all people.  As Teacher, he has given us the prime example of the importance of education.  As disciples, we look to him for inspiration and strength.  Thank you for the many sisters, brothers, priests, and laypeople who have dedicated their lives in service to our Catholic schools.  Thank you for the teachers and administrators who sustain our schools today.  Thank you for the parents who have given support and witness to the importance of Catholic education in their daily lives.  Thank you for the students who work hard to further their education.

Bless St. Peter’s School and the many people who advance our mission.  May our building be a home for those who seek to grow in faith, knowledge, and service of others.  May our community always support one another and exhibit hospitality to newcomers.  Fill our minds with knowledge and wisdom.  May our understanding of the world help us to grow in appreciation for it.  Fill our hearts with gladness.  May we always turn to you in times of need.  Fill our hands with the tools we need to serve others.  May we show them your unceasing love through our actions.  AMEN.

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

AZTEC TREK

Your child has received a collection envelope and flyer for the AZTEC TREK.  Students and families can help support our school by collecting pledges for our walk-a-thon and game day.  This is our only mandatory school fundraiser, and it helps to keep St. Peter’s School’s tuition the lowest in the Archdiocese.  The minimum mandatory amount to be collected by each student is $100, but the more money a student collects, the more prizes and class points can be earned!  The due date for all money to be turned in is Friday, February 22. Thank you in advance for your support!

THANK THE PARISH THURSDAY BAKE SALE

Tomorrow, we conclude Catholic Schools week with “Thank the Parish Thursday!”  Students will be taking the time to write letters or complete an art project to thank those that help our St. Peter’s parish and parish school.  Student Council and 8th grade will also be hosting a Bake Sale during recess times, and proceeds will be donated to our church!

NO SCHOOL FRIDAY

Since all teachers must attend an in-service for their professional development, there will be no school this Friday, February 1.

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

The application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant for the 2019-2020 school year has now begun.  Please go on to mytads.comto begin the application process. Be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Please be sure you have completed the total process by the Archdiocese deadline—April 14, 2019.

BASIC FUND

New students entering for the 2019-2020 school year must complete the BASIC Fund Application no later than March 15, 2019.  

Renewal families will be filling out their BASIC Fund Renewal Application in March and April.  All student accounts must be current with no past due balances. Please be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Contact the school office if you have any questions.

JANUARY STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

Homeroom teachers identify Students of the Month at the end of each month.  We celebrate these students because they have exemplified living the St. Peter’s KEYS:

Knowledge feeds GROWTH. 

Every ACCOMPLISHMENT needs courage.

You are LOVE.

SERVICE UNITES.

KINDER - Alani Alas is very polite, kind, and helpful to those around her. She is a hard-working student, a great listener and has an outstanding work ethic. She engages in weekly masses and morning prayers. She does a great job of staying on-task and completing her classwork and homework in a timely manner. For all these reasons and more, Alani is January's student of the month. Keep up the great work, Alani! 

1A - Leandro Camacho is an excellent example of a student who exemplifies St. Peter's KEYS. He is an extremely hard worker who takes pride in his work and loves to make his brain grow. Leandro is caring and supportive to those around him and is quick to help anyone in need. Leandro is very brave and is always trying to make good choices, even when it is difficult. For these reasons, I am proud to name Leandro as first grade's student of the month.

2A - Veronica Juarez is always challenging herself so she can grow academically. She never gives up and tries to accomplish as much as she can. She shows love by helping others. She serves her St. Peter's Community by helping out with whatever needs to be done. Veronica is a real team player. 

3A - Isaiah Arguello is a very focused and hard-working student. He is willing to help his table partners as well as his friends and his teacher.  Recently, Isaiah scored the highest in the class on our forty-one word spelling test. He LOVEs a challenge and excels because he gives it his all, ALL THE TIME. Keep it GROWing, Isaiah!!!   

4A - Emilio Flores has shown tremendous growth throughout this school year. He has focused on his worked, turned in high quality assignments, and increased his participation in class. He works well in partners and in groups, and help makes all students feel welcome in our classroom community. His great sense of humor brings a lot of smiles to our classroom. His dedication and work ethic is seen in our classroom and during this basketball season! He treats everyone with kindness and respect, and is an awesome bucket filler! Congratulations, Emilio! 

5A – Daniela Perez has GROWn tremendously in 5th grade because she sets goals and completes the steps it will take to reach them. She ACCOMPLISHes by applying literacy strategies to help her better comprehend what she reads. Our class sees how she SERVEs and shows LOVE by making choices based on the teachings of Jesus and the Works of Mercy. Daniela UNITEs our class by encouraging her classmates and working collaboratively with groups. Daniela's quiet sense of humor and warm smile make our class better every day. Congratulations, Daniela!

6A - Aavey Carreto has been a wonderful example and support to her peers this year!  She is kind and shows great effort towards her schoolwork. Aavey takes responsibility for her own learning and has set measurable goals for the New Year to set herself up for success! Thank you, Aavey, for being a great example of a student with the KEYS!  

7A - Carlos Hernandez is a shining example of a student who lives out St. Peter's School's KEYS.  This Fortnite wiz is one of the top students in class. He is kind and serves his community doing charitable works.  He is also a great friend to his classmates, helping them whenever they need some help. Keep up the good work Carlos!   

8A - Jesus Lopez demonstrates growth and love by continuously striving to better himself, both in and outside the classroom. He constantly lends a helping hand to those around him, his peers, teachers and staff, not because he has to, but because he genuinely wants to. Jesus also continues to grow academically, by asking thought-provoking questions and sharing his enthusiasm for learning. These admirable qualities only solidify his kind and determined nature as an 8th grade leader. Way to go Chuy, keep up the great work! 

8B - Selena Muñoz demonstrates critical thinking in the classroom and makes choices based on the teachings of Christ. Her family has instilled in her a strong sense of service, and she shares her time and gifts with those in her community. Selena shows others the impact one can have when they truly have an open heart and an open mind.  

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - This week in Kindergarten, we are learning about how the weather changes throughout the year. We will talk about the seasons and how they repeat every year such as winter, spring, summer, fall and then winter again. We will read Mama, is it summer yet? In math, we will review how to make ten when added to the given number and finding the total amount of objects. We will continue to use counters, dominos, number cards and connecting cubes for support in our learning.

1A - This week we are reading, writing, and learning about how life is different today than it was long ago. In religion, we are celebrating Catholic Schools Week. In math, we are looking at place value to help us compare and order numbers. In science, we are tracking the amount of rainfall we are receiving using a rain gauge. In social studies, we are continuing to learn about different important U.S. symbols.

2A - We are reading “How the Beetle Got Her Colors” and learning about quarters, dimes, nickels, and pennies (please let your child play with coins!). We are going to be investigating solids and water in science. We are talking about making better choices and preparing for First Reconciliation (February 6 at 5:45 PM in St. Peter's Church). Please talk with your child about Reconciliation so they are not anxious.

3A – 3A continues to learn about the welcoming sacraments of our church.  In math, we are moving on to multiplication. Parents, please practice the multiplication facts each night with your child.  In Science class, we are anxiously awaiting the arrival of our live crayfish.  We will be studying them throughout the month of February and into March.  The students are very interested in learning about these strange crustaceans. Our class definitely has the keys to GROW and ACCOMPLISH during this exciting investigation.  We will learn about their behavior, habitat, and eating habits.  We'll learn how they move, protect themselves and the different names for their body parts.      

4A - This week, we will be celebrating Catholic Schools! Each day, we will explore why we love St. Peter's and attending a Catholic school. In Religion, we will continue our focus on the Sacraments. We will create a lapbook as a way to demonstrate our knowledge. In Reading, we will begin our novel Wonder. We are very excited for this novel study! In Math, we will continue to focus on division and our divisibility rules. In Social Studies, we will continue our California Native Tribe research and create our posters in the classroom. In Science, we will begin our Energy unit. We look forward to celebrating Catholic Schools' Week!

5A - This week in 5th grade ELA, we're continuing our study of author's purpose by writing our own persuasive essays! In math, we're finishing up our long division unit with a focus on dividing 2-digit divisors by large numbers. We're also learning religion vocabulary in preparation for the big 5th grade ACRE test.

6A  Religion – Students will participate in different Catholic Schools Week events and practicing the Work of Mercy: Forgiving others.   Language Arts – We continue trying to identify bias in writing and will be learning how to use rhetorical techniques in our own persuasive writing.   Math - This week 6A will divide mixed numbers.  Social Studies – Students will begin learning about the physical geography of China and how geography affects the lifestyle in China.   Science – Students will explain the role of water vapor in the atmosphere and how it affects the weather.

7A   Religion -  7A will give examples of actions that can reflect the values of God's kingdom.  Language Arts - Students are continuing to read Freak the Mighty and answering Comprehension Questions. Additionally, they are discovering the unique bond between Max and Kevin. The constant reference of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table has been the foundation of their friendship, seeking quests to “…rescue fair maidens and slay dragons!”   Math - 7A will apply the Distributive Property to rewrite algebraic expressions.   Social Studies – Students will begin to compare the feudal system in Japan to the feudal system in Europe. Science – Students have wrapped up their studies of cellular reproduction and now it's time to begin our study of genetics and heredity. 

8A/8B   Religion - Students will be celebrating Catholic Schools Week by analyzing how the Church in the middle ages affects how we live as Catholics today.   Language Arts - Students are well into Zoot Suit; they have completed Act 1 and will begin Act 2 next week. Will the Pachucos win the appeal or continue to suffer unfair punishment? Students will also interpret the role of Pachuco, is he real or an imaginary character to Henry Reyna?   Math - 8A and 8B will continue to graph linear equations using the slope and y-intercept.  Social Studies – Students will display their amendments in a way that Rauschenberg completed his work.   Science - Students are evaluating their performances for their first project. Evaluation like this is important because it focuses our desire to improve in the future.

REMINDERS

Jan. 31         Bake Sale (during recess times)

Feb. 1          NO SCHOOL - Teacher In-Service Day

Feb. 4-15      STAR Testing Window #3

Feb. 5           8:10 AM School Mass

Feb. 6           Free Dress for No Tardies in January

Feb. 6           5:45 PM, First Reconciliation in Church 

Feb. 7           4A Field Trip to the Academy of Sciences

QUE PASA 1/23/2019 (English)

Dear Parents,

       This week marks the beginning of the 3rd quarter.  It’s another fresh start as we begin a new section of the school year.

       During this time, let’s not forget our growth mindset, and remember that we can be positive examples of growth for our children. There’s still much more we can learn, and there’s still plenty of time in this school year to be challenged, to ask questions, and to live out our core value: GROW! I’m trying to keep an open mind and keep a growth mindset, too. I feel like I’m learning a lot this year, and I know there’s still a lot more for me to learn. United, let’s not be afraid to try new things and learn from our mistakes; because, like our St. Peter’s KEYS state: Every accomplishment needs courage and Knowledge feeds growth.  Every day, with our children, we’ll keep on growing!

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

AZTEC TREK

Last week, your child received a collection envelope and flyer for the AZTEC TREK.  Students and families can help support our school by collecting pledges for our walk-a-thon and game day.  This is our only mandatory school fundraiser, and it helps to keep St. Peter’s School’s tuition the lowest in the Archdiocese.  The minimum mandatory amount to be collected by each student is $100, but the more money a student collects, the more prizes and class points can be earned!  The due date for all money to be turned in is Friday, February 22. Thank you in advance for your support!

SUNDAY FAMILY MASS and CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

To show our appreciation for our Catholic Schools, we will be celebrating Catholic Schools Week next week, from January 27-31.  Please see the attached flyer for details on the special events of the week!  Below is a brief list of events:

Sunday, 1/27 – 9:30 AM Family Mass and Reception

Monday, 1/28 – Multicolor Monday

Tuesday, 1/29 – Grandparents Day Mass at 8:30 AM

Wednesday, 1/30 – Works of Mercy Wednesday

Thursday, 1/31– Thank the Parish Thursday (Bake Sale)

Friday, 2/1 – Free Day Friday (No School)

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

The application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant for the 2019-2020 school year has now begun.  Please go on to mytads.comto begin the application process. Be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Please be sure you have completed the total process by the Archdiocese deadline—April 15, 2019.

BASIC FUND

New students entering for the 2019-2020 school year must complete the BASIC Fund Application no later than March 15, 2019.  

Renewal families will be filling out their BASIC Fund Renewal Application in March and April.  All student accounts must be current with no past due balances. Please be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Contact the school office if you have any questions.

PARENT VOLUNTEERS 

We depend on parent volunteer support throughout the school year! Some upcoming events include our FAMILY DANCE and CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK FAMILY MASS RECEPTION.  If you would like to help plan future events and fundraisers, or would like to join one of our parent groups, please contact Mrs. Jimenez at sjimenez@sanpedro.org or leave your name and number at the office.

UNIFORM CHECK-IN

As the weather gets colder and you bundle up your child, please ensure that he/she follows uniform policy as posted by the school office and stated in the school handbook.  All undershirts, including long-sleeve undershirts, should be white.  If your daughter wears tights, they should be solid black or white and extend to the ankle.  Socks must be black or white and extend above the ankle.  Boots may not be worn.

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - This week in Kindergarten, students are going to sing a song about some foods that are grown on farms. We will also read to find out about the kinds of foods that people grow. Students will be reminded that some of the pronouns that they have learned include he, she, it, we, you and I. In Math, we will learn to make 10. Students will find the number that makes ten when added to the given number. 

1A - This week in first grade we are reading, writing, and learning about folktales. In religion, we are learning about the significance of the Our Father. In math, we are using our knowledge of place value to compare two-digit numbers. In science, we are observing and comparing different types of clouds and discussing how they move across the sky. In social studies, we are learning about different U.S. symbols. 

2A - We are reading “Dear Primo” and learning about quarters, dimes, nickels, and pennies—please let your child play with coins! We are going to be investigating particulate solids on the schoolyard in science. We are talking about making better choices and preparing for Reconciliation. Please take the time to talk with your child about Reconciliation so that they are not anxious. 

3A – This week, we continue reading Mr. Popper's Penguins.  We are also researching the habits and habitats of penguins during Science Class.  In Social Studies, we are learning about women who have made great contributions to our world.  In Math, we are working on multiplication strategies using our tablets during rotational model time. Finally, but importantly, we are studying the Sacraments of Christian Initiation - Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation. 

4A - Welcome to the 3rd Quarter! We are excited to start the 2nd half of the year, and becoming "5th Graders in Training!” In Religion this week, we will continue to focus on the Seven Sacraments as a way for us to experience God's Grace. We will have a Religion Test on Friday. In Reading, we will begin on next story, Me and Uncle Romie.  We will also begin our first home book report this week. In Math, we will continue to focus on division. Students will use their multiplication skills to help us with our long division problems. In Social Studies, we will have a Native California project where we will research one California tribe. In Science, we will begin our unit on energy. Let's have a great second half of 4th Grade!

5A - This week, we're learning about long division with two-digit divisors in math. In reading, we're focusing on identifying the author's purpose in a variety of texts. In social studies, we're learning about life in the New England colonies. Please make sure your child is continuing to practice their division fact fluency at home! 

6A  Religion – 6th Grade will be hosting the Family Mass Reception on Sunday January 27th at 9:30 a.m. and bringing juice and coffee cups. Thank you for your support in starting Catholic Schools Week!   Language Arts – It's the beginning of 3rd Quarter and a fresh start! We are beginning our unit on non-fiction text this week, with a focus on persuasive writing. We'll be identifying bias in writing by distinguishing between facts and opinions in a text.   Math - To start the third quarter, 6A will begin dividing fractions.  Social Studies – Students are acting out Ancient Indian tales and identifying the morals of the stories.

7A   Language Arts - Students are continuing to read Freak the Mighty. In addition to their reading, students will also respond to a series of comprehension questions to ensure understanding of the overall content.   Math - 7A will identify and use mathematical properties to simplify algebraic expressions.   Social Studies – Students are learning about Feudalism in Medieval Japanese Society.   Science – Students are wrapping up their mitosis dance as we prepare to begin our conversation on chromosomes and genetics.

8A/8B   Religion - This week, we will be discussing the Crusades and the effect they continue to have on the Church today.  Language Arts - Students are well into Act 1 of the play Zoot Suit. The overarching themes of Culture Clash and Racial Discrimination the Chicanos faced during the 1940's are stirring up lively discussions. Students are finding similarities of past and present examples in their own society. They are continuing to record their thoughts of tone and mood in their Reporter's Notebook.  Math -  8A and 8B will graph linear equations using the slope and y-intercept.   Social Studies – Students will begin their amendment projects as the final steps of the Constitution Unit.   Science - Rocket flight conditions are excellent this week. Students will fly their rockets and begin their post-lab analyses of their respective performances.

REMINDERS

Jan. 23         8th Grade Graduation Photo Day

Jan. 23         Report Cards sent home

Jan. 27         Catholic Schools Week Sunday Family Mass and Reception, 9:30 AM

Jan. 27-31    CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

Jan. 28         12:30 Dismissal

Jan. 28         USF afterschool tutoring resumes

Jan. 29         8:30 AM Mass for Grandparents Day

Jan. 31         Bake Sale (during recess times)

Feb. 1           NO SCHOOL - Teacher In-Service Day

QUE PASA 1/16/2019 (English)

Dear Parents,

       This Friday, we look forward to celebrating the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as we have a special school prayer service in his honor.  He is a role model for us and our students as we discuss how others should be treated with dignity and love.  We can reflect on how Dr. King is an example of thinking critically, living out the KEYS, and taking action for social justice.  It’s a perfect opportunity to apply our growth mindset along with the children, and to take action through service!

       At the same time, we pray for peace in our world.  I am reminded of Jesus’ words: “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you.”  Like Jesus and Dr. King, let us remember to be examples of respect and peace for our children.

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

AZTEC TREK

On Monday, we had a special assembly to introduce the AZTEC TREK, our annual mandatory fundraiser. Going home with each child today is the collection envelope for the AZTEC TREK.  Students and families can help support our school by collecting pledges for our walk-a-thon and game day.  This is our only mandatory school fundraiser, and it helps to keep St. Peter’s School’s tuition the lowest in the Archdiocese.  The minimum mandatory amount to be collected by each student is $100, but the more a student collects, the more prizes and class points can be earned!  The due date for all money to be turned in us Friday, February 22.  See the attached flyer for more details. Thank you in advance for your support!

COMPUTER LAB

Due to an emergency, Mr. Minh, our after school computer lab supervisor, will not be at school from January 7-18. The computer lab will be closed from January 7-18 and will re-open on January 22 (after the MLK holiday).

NO SWEATS THIS FRIDAY

Since we will be attending a school prayer service this Friday in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., all children must be in complete uniform, and not in the gray school sweats.  Also, no free dress passes may be used on this day.

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

To show our appreciation for our Catholic Schools, we will be celebrating Catholic Schools Week from January 27-31.  Please see the attached flyer for the various themes of each day! 

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

The application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant for the 2019-2020 school year has now begun.  Please go on to mytads.comto begin the application process. Be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Please be sure you have completed the total process by the Archdiocese deadline. 

BASIC FUND

New students entering for the 2019-2020 school year must complete the BASIC Fund Application no later than March 15, 2019. 

Renewal families will be filling out their BASIC Fund Renewal Application in March and April.  All student accounts must be current with no past due balances. Please be sure you have your 2018 income tax information or 2018 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Contact the school office if you have any questions.

PARENT VOLUNTEERS 

We depend on parent volunteer support throughout the school year! Some upcoming events include our FAMILY DANCE and CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK FAMILY MASS RECEPTION.  If you would like to help plan future events and fundraisers, or would like to join one of our parent groups, please contact Mrs. Jimenez at sjimenez@sanpedro.org or leave your name and number at the office.

UNIFORM CHECK-IN

As the weather gets colder and you bundle up your child, please ensure that he/she follows uniform policy as posted by the school office and stated in the school handbook.  All undershirts, including long-sleeve undershirts, should be white.  If your daughter wears tights, they should be solid black or white and extend to the ankle.  Socks must be black or white and extend above the ankle.  Boots may not be worn.

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - This week in Kindergarten, students will learn to identify main events in fiction text. We will identify the most important events in a story, retell, and recognized events that happen to the main character. 

1A - This week, we are reading and discussing how plants change as they grow and working on reading and writing words with the long i sound. In religion, we are praying through song and thanking those who donated books to our classroom over Christmas. In math, we are continuing to work on place value for numbers up to 100. In science, we are making thermometers to demonstrate how air temperature is taken. In social studies, we are learning about Martin Luther King Jr. and the importance of standing up for what is right.

2A - We are reading “Volcanoes” and learning about quadrilaterals (2-dimensional shapes) and cubes. We are going to be investigating spills in science. We are talking about making better choices and preparing for the sacrament of Reconciliation. 

3A – 3A is continuing to read Mr. Popper's Penguins during Language Arts class. Also in Language Arts, we are studying the 120 high-frequency third grade words that we use so often in our writing. In Social Studies, we will focus on Dr. MLK, Jr.  We'll learn about his life and what makes him the great American hero that we look up to for our continuing struggle for equality. Math focus this month is on word problems. We are looking for key words that tell us which operation to use in solving these problems. One of our ongoing GOALS is to begin multiplication on February 4. We are challenging ourselves to work harder on STMath here at school and at home. 3A, remember our GROWTH MINDSET rule! NEVER GIVE UP OR GIVE IN!!!

4A - What a great start to 2019! In Religion this week, we will continue to focus on the 7 Sacraments and learn how God fills us with Grace. In Reading, we will begin to read Coming Distractions: Questioning Movies. We will begin to focus on the differences between facts and opinions. In Math, we will begin our division unit! The students will focus on 2 by 1 digit division as well as 3 by 1 digit. In Social Studies, we will focus on a mini-project about California Native Peoples; this will lead us into our Mission unit during the 3rd quarter! In Science, we will focus on energy. We will begin to use our stations during our Literacy Block and Math classes. Please continue to read each night and use STMath!

5A - In 5th grade this week, our class is focusing on writing better main idea sentences for our paragraphs. We're learning about the original 13 US colonies in Social Studies and continuing our quest to become division fact masters in math. 

6A  Religion – 6th Graders are leading weekly masses in January and writing cards to the imprisoned as a Work of Mercy for January.   Language Arts – Students continue to build on their academic vocabulary using Greek and Latin roots. We have also concluded our first novel, Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry, and will be working on their culminating projects this week.   Social Studies – Students continue with their Ancient India Unit.  They will act out some Ancient Indian tales and identify the moral and author's purpose in the stories.  

7A   Language Arts - Students are continuing their introduction to Freak the Mighty. They participated in a series of pre-reading activities: the author and various themes/topics to ensure comprehension as students begin reading the novel this week.   Social Studies – Students are ending Quarter 2 with a Passion Project research presentation about different cultural aspects about life in Medieval China and Japan.   Science – Students have now tested their knowledge of mitosis...now it's time to choreograph its dance!

8A/8B   Language Arts - Students are finalizing their Night Literary Analysis Essay this week. They also thoroughly enjoyed the Holocaust Guest Speaker this past Tuesday. The presentation allowed them to put a face to the experiences they read in the novel. As they wrap up Night, students will transition to the introduction of their next text, a play, Zoot Suit by Luis Valdez.    Social Studies – Students are finalizing Quarter 2 with a project about the Branches of Government to distinguish between the roles and responsibilities of each of the three branches.  Science - Rocket launch has been delayed by a week. This week we conduct test flights and next week we launch for flight distances.

REMINDERS

Jan. 16         AZTEC TREK Fundraiser begins

Jan. 16         First Communion Parent Meeting, 5:45 PM in Church

Jan. 18         End of 2nd Quarter

Jan. 18         Martin Luther King, Jr. Prayer Service, 8:30 AM

Jan. 21         Dr. MLK, Jr. Holiday, No School

Jan. 23         8th Grade Graduation Photo Day

Jan. 23         Report Cards sent home

Jan. 27         Catholic Schools Week Sunday Family Mass and  Reception, 9:30 AM

Jan. 27-31    CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

Jan. 28         12:30 Dismissal

QUE PASA -- 1/9/2019 (ENGLISH)

Dear Parents,

       Happy New Year!!!  I pray that everyone enjoyed a blessed Christmas with loved ones.  I am thankful for another year filled with hope, challenges, and growth.  Together, let us start 2019 with a prayer:

Lord, You make all things new.

You bring hope alive in our hearts

And cause our Spirits to be born again.

Thank you for this new year,

For all the potential it holds.

Come and kindle in us a mighty flame

So that in our time, many will see the wonders of God

And live forever to praise Your glorious name.  

AMEN.

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

COMPUTER LAB

Due to an emergency, Mr. Minh, our after school computer lab supervisor, will not be at school from January 7-18. The computer lab will be closed from January 7-18 and will re-open on January 22 (after the MLK holiday.

PARENT VOLUNTEERS

We depend on parent volunteer support throughout the school year! Some upcoming events include our FAMILY DANCE and CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK FAMILY MASS RECEPTION.  If you would like to help plan future events and fundraisers, or would like to join one of our parent groups, please contact Mrs. Jimenez at sjimenez@sanpedro.org or leave your name and number at the office.

UNIFORM CHECK-IN

As the weather gets colder and you bundle up your child, please ensure that he/she follows uniform policy as posted by the school office and stated in the school handbook.  All undershirts, including long-sleeve undershirts, should be white.  If your daughter wears tights, they should be solid black or white and extend to the ankle.  Socks must be black or white and extend above the ankle.  Boots may not be worn.

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - This week in Kindergarten, we will read “My Garden” by Kevin Henkes. Before reading the story, we will text talk; students will identify if the story is fiction or non-fiction. Students will also begin thinking what might be the author's purpose for writing. Perhaps to entertain, persuade, or inform? Where and when do think this story takes place? Who is the main character of the story? Then, as we read the story, students will be listening for important events at the beginning, middle, and end of the story that may answer questions or confirm predictions. In math, we will review addition and subtraction. We are moving forward to subtract from 5 or less. (fluency)

1A - Welcome back! I hope you all had a great Christmas break. This week we will be reading and discussing how we measure time. In religion, we are finishing learning about of the wonder of God's Creation. In math, we are beginning our unit on place value by practicing grouping and counting by 10s. In science, we are finally working on our rockets fueled by compressed air, and in social studies we are learning about earning, saving, and spending money.

2A - We will be reading “Rain Forests,” learning about 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional shapes, and investigating spills (bring recyclable water bottles, please). We will be preparing for First Reconciliation (memorize the Act of Contrition).  Mark your calendars: First Communion meeting on January 16 at 5:45 p.m. in St. Peter's Church.

3A – Happy New Year and welcome back to school.  3A is starting off the 2019 year with a book writing project that will be completed by the end of February.  We are hoping to publish our writing effort for parents, family and friends to purchase.  In Math class, we continue to focus on our third grade curriculum using our tablets, small group math centers, and class instruction.  Please continue to use STMath at home as well as the study of basic math facts to help the students improve their knowledge in mathematics. On Friday, we will have a pizza lunch because of your phenomenal support with our December food drive. WE truly accomplish, love, serve and unite as a class and as a school.   

4A - Welcome back, 4A! I hope you had nice and relaxing breaks. We are back to work, and setting our new goals for 2019. In Religion, we will be focusing on the 7 Sacraments as a way for us to recall the Sacraments we have already participated in, and understand the Sacraments ahead of us. In Math, we will be reviewing multiplication this week. Please practice multiplication facts at home! In Reading, we will create an interactive notebook for our next story, "Once Upon a Cool Motorcycle Dude." In Social Studies, we will learn about Native Californians, this will segue us into our Missions Project during 3rd Quarter! In Science, we will continue to focus on changes in landforms. Please continue to encourage your child to use our STMath program at home. Thank you!

5A - Welcome back from break! This week, 5th graders will be setting goals for 2019 and sharing the book talk presentations they worked on over break. In math, we'll check in on our division fact fluency and examine the importance of place values in decimals.

6A  Religion – 6A is setting goals for the New Year and reviewing the Ten Commandments from the book of Exodus.  Language Arts – I hope everyone had a restful and merry holiday and a happy New Year! This week, 6A ELA will continue where we left off in Roll of Thunder as we approach closer to the novel's climax. We will also begin to look at common Latin and Greek roots to build our academic vocabulary.   Math – Students will divide whole numbers by fractions.  Social Studies – Students are learning about the physical geography and the religious beliefs of the people of Ancient India.   Science – 6A will compare and contrast dominant life-forms in Mesozoic and Cenozoic Eras.

7A   Religion - 7A will offer ways to work towards a just and peaceful society.   Language Arts - Welcome back! Students have ended their Unit on A Christmas Carol. They are now moving on to the Introduction of their next novel, Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick.  Math – Students will evaluate simple algebraic expressions.   Social Studies – Students will begin Medieval Japan by learning about the physical geography and the early settlement of the island of Japan.   Science – Students will review biological levels of organization and then switch their focus onto defining all steps of mitosis.

8A/8B   Religion – Eighth graders are jumping into the new year by discussing how various religious orders allow for individuals in the Catholic church to nourish their faith.   Language Arts - Welcome back, Class of 2019! Students are closing their Night Unit with a Literary Analysis Essay, interpreting the significant events, topics, and themes in the novel. On Tuesday, January 15, students will also have a Holocaust Guest Speaker Presentation.  Math – Students will find the slope of a line.   Social Studies – Students are continuing their Constitution Unit by learning about the roles and responsibilities of the Executive Branch.   Science - Students review their measurement abilities as they put the finishing touches on their rocket project. Flight date is January 17th.

REMINDERS

Jan. 16         First Communion Parent Meeting, 5:45 PM in Church

Jan. 18         End of 2nd Quarter

Jan. 18         Martin Luther King, Jr. Prayer Service, 8:30 AM

Jan. 21         Dr. MLK, Jr. Holiday, No School

Jan. 23         8th Grade Graduation Photo Day

Jan. 23         Report Cards sent home

QUE PASA 12/19/2018 (ENGLISH)

Dear Parents,

       I share this prayer (written by Christine Sine) with you all:

The coming of our Lord is near,
And we wait in joyful expectation.
Draw close, Lord Jesus Christ,
Shed your light on all that is filled with darkness.
The coming of our Lord is near,
And we wait with hope filled hearts.
Draw close, God’s beloved son,
Teach us the wonder of your all-embracing love. 

AMEN.

       During this Advent, I keep the entire St. Peter’s School family in my prayers--I am grateful to be a part of this loving community.  I pray that everyone has a safe and relaxing winter break.  Have a joyous Christmas and a happy new year!  See you in 2019!

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

ST. PETER’S CHURCH CHRISTMAS SERVICES

You are invited to join in the Eucharistic celebrations on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at St. Peter’s Church!

December 24 – 7:00 PM,  Special Concelebrated Mass

December 25 – 9:30 AM Mass (English) and 12:00 PM (Spanish)

COMPUTER LAB

The computer lab will be CLOSED on Wednesday-Thursday, December 19-20, and will re-open when classes resume after Christmas vacation, on Monday, January 7.

BVCC WINTER CAMP

If you would like your child to participate in the BVCC Winter Camp, open from December 26-28 and January 2-4, you can fill out and return the registration form which was sent home.  Forms are also available in the school office and in the Parish Hall with the BVCC After School Program. 

DECEMBER STUDENTS OF THE MONTH!

Homeroom teachers identify Students of the Month at the end of each month.  We celebrate these students because they have exemplified living the St. Peter’s KEYS:

Knowledge feeds GROWTH.

Every ACCOMPLISHMENT needs courage.

You are LOVE.

SERVICE UNITES.

Kinder - Fabio Bucio is a role model student who sets a positive example for his peers. He has excellent work ethic and enjoys helping others. Fabio always comes to class prepared and creates high quality work that exceeds expectations. He engages in weekly school mass and morning prayer assemblies. For these reasons, Fabio is December's student of the month!

1A - Angel Robledo is an excellent example of a student who is always trying to live out St. Peter's KEYS. Angel takes his learning very seriously and is great at staying focused on his work and challenging himself. He is kind and loving to those around him and is quick to offer help to anyone in need. Angel is a great listener and team player. For these reasons Angel is first grade's student of the month!

2A - Daniel Saavedra is the Student of the Month for December.  He always does his best and is eager to try new things. Daniel listens carefully and focuses on his work.  Good job, Daniel!  

3A – Danna Sanchez is a perfect example of our KEYS. Danna is one who SERVES by helping others before being asked. She is often seen cleaning the 3rd grade play area after recess.  She shares her classroom materials and her snacks when someone is without theirs.  Furthermore, Danna shows GROWTH in her academics and her behavior.  She consistently strives to receive a "1" in behavior and study skills.    

4A - Sara Becerra comes to school every day with a smile on her face, and is ready to learn. She takes full responsibility of her learning, and is an extremely hard worker. She focuses on respecting classmates and adults, as well as being a bucket filler to everyone she meets. She is an active participant in class, and motivates others around her to stay focused and to keep trying. Congratulations, Sara!

5A – Carlos Mendoza brings so many great qualities to 5th grade. He UNITEs our class with his great listening and by following directions the first time, SERVEs his classmates by helping them with assignments, and brings LOVE and joy to 5th grade with his clever jokes. We love that Carlos isn't intimidated by challenges and is always willing to try something new. He has GROWn a lot this school year by working to stay focused on task in class. All of this hard work has allowed him to ACCOMPLISH great things academically!  

6A - Diego Diaz has been a joy to have in the classroom this year and has what it takes to be successful in 6th grade and beyond!  This is Diego's final month at St. Peter's and we know that he will take what he has learned here to his new school.  Diego's new classmates and teachers will be lucky to have him as he will surely show them what it means to be a student with the KEYS to GROW, ACCOMPLISH, LOVE, SERVE, and UNITE! Thank you Diego for the kindness, positive attitude, and support you have given to your classmates and teachers throughout the years.  You will always be a member of our St. Peter's family!  

7A - Angela Miranda is a great example of someone who lives out St. Peter's School's KEYS.  She is so thoughtful and provides a refreshing point of view each day in class.  She is a leader and a great example of someone our younger students here at St. Peter's School can look up to.  Finally, she is a great friend to her 7A classmates. 

8A - Victoria Colvin exhibits what it means to grow as a WHOLE person, through her spiritual, emotional, physical, and academic well-being. She is constantly seeking ways to create an impact, a voice, within herself and the school community. She accomplishes and serves as a strong role model and leader. Way to go Victoria!

8B - Daniel Mejia has shown us all what it truly means to face challenges with optimism and faith. When he is facing difficulty, he still manages to think of others and show gratitude. He continually wants to grow and try new things and is willing to be a pioneer and lead the way for others. Daniel truly lives the teachings of Christ in the joy and love he shares with the world.  

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - This week, we will continue to blend sounds to make words. Students will participate in our Daily Five stations. So far, it's helping students feel more comfortable in their reading ability. In math, we will work on math facts. Parents, please continue to help your child with subtraction. This seems to be a challenge for most students.

1A - This week we are continuing our trip around the world to learn about how Christmas is celebrated in different countries. In religion, we are continuing our Acts of Kindness Advent Calendar in preparation for the birth of Jesus. In math, we will be reviewing our units on subtraction and data and graphing. We are also preparing and practicing for our singing of ‘Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer’ at Thursday's Christmas Prayer Service. Please join us if you can. Merry Christmas and have a wonderful break!

2A - We will be reading “Rain Forests.”  We will be creating and interpreting bar graphs, sorting bits and pieces, and watching our paperwhite bulbs grow, we continue to prepare for Jesus' birth, and please start practicing the Act of Contrition. Have a restful break!

3A – SUCH A BUSY WEEK THROUGHOUT ST.PETER'S SCHOOL. As we await the birth of Christ and prepare for the Christmas holiday vacation, 3A is making presents for our parents, writing cards to our loyal benefactors and decorating our classroom. We are having some fun activities such as assembling movable reindeer, making St. Nicholas puppets, and a working on a sequencing worksheet from our recent read, The Polar Express. 3A is taking this opportunity to wish everyone a peaceful Christmas with rest and relaxation. MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL AND TO ALL A GREAT NEW YEAR.

4A - This week, we will continue to focus on the season of Advent and preparing our hearts for Jesus' birth. In Reading, we will be focusing on various Christmas stories. We will be creating Book Reports based on these stories, and we will write our own Christmas story. In Math, we will use this week to review addition, subtraction and multiplication. Through Christmas stations, we will work individually, with partners, and in small groups to practice our skills. We will also take part in "Merry Graphmas" during this week; we will study various graphs and participate in them as a class each day. In Science, we will participate in Christmas STEM projects. In Social Studies, we will continue the Christmas theme and learn about how different countries celebrate Christmas. We will also be attending the Mission Public Library on Wednesday. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

5A - 5th grade is wrapping up the last school week of 2018 with some exciting events! We went on a class field trip to the Exploratorium on Tuesday, and we’re working on holiday graphing activities in math and presenting our book club's plot diagrams of Christmas stories. Have a wonderful Christmas with your families!

6A  Religion – Students are finalizing their Jesse Tree ornament project and preparing for the Christmas Program.  Language Arts – 6A is nearing the climax of our novel, Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry, and the tension between the characters is building. Will the Logan family be able to find justice in an unjust world? Students have had interesting conversations about how we seek change when we see something wrong in our world.   Math - This week 6A will continue to multiply fractions.   Social Studies – Students are reading about Christmas traditions around the world.   Science – Students will take a test on Earth's early history.

7A   Religion - 7A will take a Unit Test in Religion.  Furthermore, I would like to wish all 7A families nothing but happiness, love, and God's blessing this Christmas and New Year's holiday.  Language Arts - Students have finalized their unit on A Christmas Carol by watching the movie. In doing so, they are able to visualize the play's content. When they return from break, students will be introduced to their second novel, Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!   Math – Students will begin learning about algebraic expressions.   Social Studies – Students finished A Long Walk to Water and are reflecting through essays on the ways that access to water change entire communities.  Science - Students are now beginning to look into tissues as they prepare to start their research on organ systems. Our first step will be to describe how cells replicate through mitosis.

8A/8B   Language Arts - Students have finalized their reading of Night. They will create a culminating Tear Art Visual to represent their feelings and reactions to an event in the novel. In doing so, they will be able to illustrate how mood and symbolism can convey a message to the reader. More importantly, students will be able to highlight the devastation that the main character and other Jewish prisoners endured, while capturing the human emotion that is so vivid in the novel. Have a very Merry Christmas! See you in 2019, class of 2019!   Math -  Students will finish up their math project and begin learning about constant rate of change.  Social Studies – Students are finalizing their Legislative Branch weeks by taking a Congress Quest, following a bill in Congress that they are interested in, and researching California’s Senators and their Representative.  Science - Students continue to build their rockets. This week's focus will be building the nose cone and finding volume.

REMINDERS

Dec. 19-20        Computer Lab Closed

Dec. 20             9:00 AM Christmas Prayer Service and Program

Dec. 20             12:30 Dismissal

Dec. 20-Jan. 6   CHRISTMAS VACATION

Jan. 7                 Classes Resume  (Regular Schedule, 7:55 AM – 3:00 PM)

Jan.8                 8:10 AM School Mass

Jan. 16              First Communion Parent Meeting

Jan. 18              End of 2nd Quarter

QUE PASA 12/12/2018 (English)

Dear Parents,

      We continue preparing our hearts for the coming of Jesus, and this week we celebrate Mary and St. Juan Diego on the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.  In the Advent prayer below (by Kelly Balarie), I sense a connection with Juan Diego’s story of faith, love, and courage that is still so relatable today. Even through the challenges in our lives, we can turn to God and our Blessed Mother Mary for strength, just as St. Juan Diego did. 

Lord,

Advent is here, but so are old habits.

Advent is here, but gone are people we love.

Advent is here, but fears surface.

You say, "I see all that, and I can handle all that."

You say, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

You say, "Peace is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I give you. I do not give it as the world does. Do not be worried and upset; do not be afraid."

You say, "Tell everyone who is discouraged, Be strong and don’t be afraid! God is coming to your rescue."

What looks unscalable, You boost me over.

What seems unbearable, You bring me through unbelievably.

What can't be managed, You say, "Let down your guard and I will guard you."

Amen.

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

ST. PETER’S FOOD DRIVE

The 8th graders are leading the school in a service project of collecting dry or canned foods and cash donations for the SF Marin Food Bank to help feed the thousands of hungry families who live in the Bay Area.  Last year, we collected over 1,200 pounds of food.  Let’s match or beat that goal!  The homeroom that collects the most donations per student will win a special prize.  

WINTER CLOTHING DRIVE

Thank you so much for the support you have already offered in donating cold weather clothing items for the Oakland parish of Mary Help of Christians! The collection continues through Wednesday, December 19 and our focus going forward should be jackets in good condition, of all sizes!  Thank you and God Bless!

TUITION POLICY FOR 2nd SEMESTER

All student tuition accounts must be up to date and paid through December 2018 in order for your child to return to class for the 2ndSemester on January 7, 2019. 

If your tuition is not paid by December 15, 2018 your child will not be able to return to class on Monday, January 7, 2019. 

Please plan ahead so your tuition is received on time by December 15, 2018.  

If you have any questions, please call the Tuition Office at (415)647-8662.

LAS POSADAS 

BVCC is hosting Las Posadas at St. Peter’s School this Friday, December 14, from 6:00-7:30 PM.  There will also be food for sale.  All are welcome to join the celebration.

HOLIDAY EVENTS NEXT WEEK

Please see the attached flyer for details on our school holiday activities for next week!  Tuesday 12/18 is “Holiday Sweater Day,” Wednesday 12/19 is “Holiday Hat Day,” and Thursday 12/20 is our Christmas Prayer Service and Program, followed by a student game in the gym.  

COMPUTER LAB

The computer lab will be CLOSED on Wednesday-Thursday, December 19-20, and will re-open when classes resume after Christmas vacation, on Monday, January 7.

BVCC WINTER CAMP

If you would like your child to participate in the BVCC Winter Camp, open from December 26-28 and January 2-4, you can fill out and return the registration form which was sent home last week.  Forms are also available in the school office and in the Parish Hall with the BVCC After School Program.  

PARENT VOLUNTEERS 

We depend on parent volunteer support throughout the school year!  Our wonderful school events would not be possible without our loving parent volunteers! Some upcoming events include Family Lotería Night and the Family Dance.  If you would like to help plan future events and fundraisers, or would like to join one of our parent groups, please contact Mrs. Jimenez at sjimenez@sanpedro.org or leave your name and number at the office.

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - This week in Kindergarten, we are going to discuss ways to help out in a community. We will read Roadworks to discuss the ways that people improve their community. Students will also learn how to write a sentence about a worker. In Math, we will learn how to add and subtract within 5 fluently. 

1A - This week we will be taking a trip around the world to learn how Christmas is celebrated in different countries. In religion, we are continuing our Acts of Kindness Advent Calendar in preparation for the birth of Jesus. In math, we will be reviewing our units on subtraction and data and graphing. We are also preparing and practicing for our singing of ‘Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer’ for next week's Christmas Prayer Service.

2A - We will read “Ways to Enjoy Music” and create and interpret bar graphs.  We’ll sort bits and pieces, watch our paperwhite bulbs grow, and learn about reading maps.  We will prepare for Jesus' birth by talking about better choices and start practicing the Act of Contrition.

3A – In Religion, 3A will read the story and learn about Our Lady of Guadalupe, practice our Mass responses, and practice our Christmas Carols for the convalescent hospital and the Christmas Program on December 20. In Language Arts, we will finish writing our Christmas cards for the residents of Sheffield Convalescent Hospital. On the December 13 we will walk to the convalescent hospital and share our Christmas spirit with some very special people.

4A - Happy 2nd Week of Advent! This week, we will continue to focus on preparing our hearts for the season of Advent. We will learn about a variety of Christmas traditions as well as the Jesse Tree. In Reading, we will finish our “Stormalong” story, and focus on our Christmas picture books to discuss character development. We will also read, "Once upon a Cool Motorcycle Dude" and focus on the skill of comparing and contrasting. We will finish our Multiplication unit in Math this week, and transition into our Division unit. Please continue to practice math facts at home! In Social Studies, we will compare all of California regions through our new online Social Studies Curriculum. In Science, we will continue to focus on landforms and weathering. 

5A - This week, 5th graders are working to identify the plot structure elements in holiday stories with their book clubs. In math, we're learning how to plot points on a graph. We'll continue our gingerbread story unit in Language Arts and publish our special "Transformed into Gingerbread" writing assignment. 5th grade will celebrate the end of this Language Arts unit with a gingerbread-themed party on Friday! 

6A  Religion – Students will be leading the Mass for Our Lady of Guadalupe this week.   Language Arts – 6th Graders continue to meet their goals on our literacy program Lexia PowerUp, and students are showing amazing growth on their reading levels. We are also continuing to read our novel, Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry, and analyzing the racial inequalities faced by African Americans during the Jim Crow era. We will be looking at non-fiction text to compare segregation and racism then and now.  Math - 6A will multiply mixed numbers.  Social Studies – Students are beginning the physical geography of India.   Science – Students will take a test on early Earth history.  

7A   Language Arts - Students have wrapped up their reading on A Christmas Carol. They will participate in a Change of Heart Activity, focusing on Scrooge’ s BEFORE and AFTER character transformation. Through this, they will be able to identify how and why he has a "change of heart.” Math - 7A will continue to divide fractions and begin evaluating algebraic expressions.  Social Studies – Students are finalizing an art project for their Africa Unit and is comparing the early West African Civilizations.    Science – Students have wrapped up their study of cells and organelles and now it's time to start looking into biological levels of organization. They will frame the rest of our year! 

8A/8B   Religion – Students will be introduced to Unit 3 which focuses on the role of the Church in medieval society and will begin to prepare for their ACRE exam!  Language Arts - Students are continuing to read Night. They focused on answering what it means to be a bystander, a person who is present but does not take a stand, or an upstander, a person who takes a stand against an act of injustice or intolerance. They discovered how many truly stand up to cruelty, during the Holocaust and even in modern times.   Math – Students will start projects on multi-step equations and begin finding a constant rate of change.   Social Studies – Students are learning about the Legislative branch in the Constitution Unit and each student will research a bill that is in Congress right now to become a law.    Science - Students are in full engineering mode. The mission is to power a rocket using a safe chemical reaction!

REMINDERS

Dec. 11-12       St. Peter’s Christmas Shop

Dec. 12            9:30 AM School Mass – Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe

Dec. 13             8:30 AM Advent Reconciliation, 8th Grade

Dec. 13             3A Field trip to Sheffield Convalescent Hospital

Dec. 14             6:00 PM, Las Posadas with BVCC

Dec. 18             5A Field Trip to the Exploratorium

Dec. 19             4A Field Trip to Mission Branch Library

Dec. 19-20        Computer Lab Closed

Dec. 20             9:00 AM Christmas Prayer Service and Program

Dec. 20             12:30 Dismissal

Dec. 20-Jan. 6   CHRISTMAS VACATION

Jan. 7                 Classes Resume

QUE PASA 12/5/2018 (English)

Dear Parents,

      This week and next week, we will celebrate two feasts of Mary: the Feast of the Immaculate Conception and the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.  It’s very appropriate that we celebrate Mary during the season of Advent as we prepare for the coming of Jesus, because without Mary, and without her faith, strength, and love, we wouldn’t have Jesus.  After all, Jesus is the reason for the season.

      Pope Francis wrote an Advent reflection a few years ago that reminds us of how Mary is a role model for us today.  Mary also reminds me of our Sisters of Mercy, past and present--like Sr. Marian Rose, Sr. Lucy, Sr. Paulina, and Sr. Toni Lynn--who answered the call of Mercy at St. Peter’s.  As Pope Francis describes, Mary is a loving mother who inspires us all to put God first in our lives.  Here’s a part of what Pope Francis wrote:

“We bet on hope, on the hope of peace, and it will be possible! The journey is never finished. Just as in each of our own lives, there is always a need to restart and to rise again. Mary is a model of this spiritual attitude, to this way of being and of journeying in life.Although she was just a simple girl, she carried in her heart the hope of God.  In her womb, the hope of God took flesh, became man, and made history: Jesus Christ.  Let us be guided by her, she who is mother, she is a ‘mama’ and knows how to lead us. Let us be guided by her in this time of waiting.”                                                                                                

      So let’s remember Mary, during Advent and every day, and how she is a role model for us to have courage, to put God first in our lives, and to have open hearts and open minds.  And when we do that, GREAT things can happen!

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

NO SWEATS THIS FRIDAY

Since we will be attending school mass this Friday in honor of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, all students must be in complete uniform.  No gray sweats may be worn this Friday.

CHRISTMAS SHOP

St. Peter’s School will be hosting a Christmas Shop for students on December 11-12! This will be a safe Christmas shopping experience for children, right here at school. Please see the attached flyer and budget envelope for more details!

ST. PETER’S FOOD DRIVE

The 8th graders are leading the school in a service project of collecting dry or canned foods and cash donations for the SF Marin Food Bank to help feed the thousands of hungry families who live in the Bay Area.  Last year, we collected over 1,200 pounds of food.  Let’s match or beat that goal!  The homeroom that collects the most donations per student will win a special prize.  

WINTER CLOTHING DRIVE

Thank you so much for the support you have already offered in donating cold weather clothing items for the Oakland parish of Mary Help of Christians! The collection continues through Wednesday, December 19 and our focus going forward should be jackets in good condition, of all sizes!  Thank you and God Bless!

TUITION POLICY FOR 2nd SEMESTER

All student tuition accounts must be up to date and paid through December 2018 in order for your child to return to class for the 2ndSemester on January 7, 2019. 

If your tuition is not paid by December 15, 2018 your child will not be able to return to class on Monday, January 7, 2019. 

Please plan ahead so your tuition is received on time by December 15, 2018.  

If you have any questions, please call the Tuition Office at (415)647-8662.

LAS POSADAS 

Save the Date—BVCC is hosting Las Posadas at St. Peter’s School on Friday, December 14, from 6:00-7:30 PM.  All are welcome to join the celebration.

BVCC WINTER CAMP

If you would like your child to participate in the BVCC Winter Camp, open from December 26-28 and January 2-4, you can fill out and return the registration form which was sent home last week.  Forms are also available in the school office and in the Parish Hall with the BVCC After School Program.  

PARENT VOLUNTEERS 

We depend on parent volunteer support throughout the school year!  Our wonderful school events would not be possible without our loving parent volunteers! Some upcoming events include Las Posadas, Family Lotería Night, and the Family Dance.  If you would like to help plan future events and fundraisers, or would like to join one of our parent groups, please contact Mrs. Jimenez at sjimenez@sanpedro.org or leave your name and number at the office.

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - This week in Kindergarten, we will continue to write and produce descriptive sentences. We will work together to write describing words and include it in our writing. In Math, we will solve subtraction word problems, add and subtract within 10. 

1A - This week we are reading and discussing the ways that we get around by learning about maps and directions. In religion, we are learning about Advent and preparing for the arrival of Jesus. In math, we are continuing our unit on data and graphing. In science, we are hoping for dry weather so we can execute our rocket experiment. In social studies, we are learning about the difference between the things that we want and need.

2A - We will be reading “Wild Weather” and telling time to 5-minute intervals.  We will sort bits and pieces, watch our bulbs grow, and learn about presidents Obama and Washington.  The Advent Season has begun, and we are learning the Act of Contrition.

3A – This week in Religion class we are learning about the season of Advent.  We'll be studying the many symbols that are associated with the season.  In Language Arts we're reviewing our high frequency word lists from Kindergarten through 2nd grade.  We will also be practicing our third grade word lists as well as high frequency nouns.  3A will continue the rotational model in Math class with group work, math stations and STMath with our tablets.

4A - Happy December! This week, we will continue to learn about the season of Advent. We are working to prepare our hearts for Jesus' birth. In Math, we will continue to focus on multiplication. We will learn about 2- digit by 2-digit multiplication and the various ways those problems can be solved. In Reading, we will focus on our next story: "Stormalong" and develop our comprehension skills of understanding characters and making predictions. We will also focus on a writing piece, "If I was stuck in a snow globe!" In Social Studies, we will continue to work on our new online curriculum. The students will be working on their Chromebooks during this time. In Science, we will focus on landforms and weathering. Please remember to check planners and homework folders each night for any updates!

5A - This week, 5th grade will start our holiday story unit by reading The Night of Las Posadas and The Polar Express. We'll continue to practice summarizing and differentiating between important and interesting details with these texts. In math, 5th graders will practice interpreting and writing numerical sentences. In religion, we'll prepare for our Advent reconciliation on Thursday.

6A  Religion – Students will be starting a Jesse Tree Project for the Advent season, and they will have Reconciliation on Thursday December 6th.  The class is also preparing to lead the Our Lady of Guadalupe Mass next week.   Language Arts – Students will continue to explore the social context of our novel Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry, based in the Jim Crow era. We'll discuss the inequalities faced by African Americans as we follow the Logan family as they encounter different challenges because of their race.  Math - 6A will practice multiplying fractions.  Social Studies – Students are finalizing their Egypt Unit and will begin to learn about the physical geography of India.  Science – Students are learning about dominant life forms of the Precambrian time and Paleozoic era.  

7A   Religion – Students will contemplate on the meaning and importance of prayer.   Language Arts - Students are continuing to read A Christmas Carol, focusing on character development: physical descriptions, inner desires and important traits. As they reach the end, they are rapidly realizing Scrooge's transformation from a selfish, greedy businessman to a generous, kind-hearted human being.   Math - 7A will practice dividing fractions.   Social Studies - Students will complete a group project comparing the three early civilizations of West Africa.  Science – Students look at cells and prepare to test on cell structures.

8A/8B   Religion – This week we will be completing Unit 2 on The Growth of Christendom by taking a test and then will be heading out for the retreat! Language Arts - Students are continuing to read Night. Many lively discussions have already taken place as they learn of Elie's journey through the concentration camps. They will focus next on answering what it means to be a bystander or an upstander when they return from Retreat.   Math – Students will identify proportional and non-proportional linear relationships by finding a constant rate of change.    Social Studies – Students are taking a tour of the murals in the Mission District with Precita Eyes to learn more about the history and artwork of the Mission.    Science - Students work on their rocket project for a couple of days before going on their Confirmation retreat to Occidental! Have a great time!

REMINDERS

Dec. 5-7        8th Grade Retreat in Occidental

Dec. 6           8:30 AM Advent Reconciliation, Grades 5-6

Dec. 7           9:30 AM School Mass – Feast of the Immaculate Conception

Dec. 11          8:30 AM Advent Reconciliation, 7A

Dec. 11-12     St. Peter’s Christmas Shop

Dec. 12         9:30 AM School Mass – Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe

Dec. 13         8:30 AM Advent Reconciliation, 8th Grade

Dec. 13        3A Field trip to Sheffield Convalescent Hospital

Dec. 14        6:00 PM, Las Posadas with BVCC

Dec. 18        5A Field Trip to the Exploratorium

Dec. 19        4A Field Trip to Mission Branch Library

QUE PASA 11/28/2018 (English)

Dear Parents,

      December is almost here--the last month of 2018!  Even though we’re near the end of the year, this Sunday marks the beginning of a church season—ADVENT.  Advent is a time of preparation for Jesus’ birth.   

      The teachers and I will be teaching the students about Advent, and how our preparations could include special acts—such as saying extra prayers, reading the bible, attending an additional Mass, giving to the school’s weekly Missions collection, or doing extra good deeds—because doing those special acts will make more room in our hearts for Jesus.  Some classes are following an Advent calendar or constructing Advent wreaths, yet some classes might also be planning special service projects to help those in need.  Whatever your child and your family do during Advent, remember that Jesus is the reason for the season.  The children have heard this at school, but continue this lesson at home.  Let’s all be examples of open hearts and open minds, and know that we wouldn’t be celebrating if it wasn’t for our savior, Jesus Christ.    

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

CHRISTMAS SHOP

St. Peter’s School will be hosting a Christmas Shop for students on December 11-12! This will be a safe Christmas shopping experience for children, right here at school. Please see the attached flyer for more details!

ST. PETER’S FOOD DRIVE

The 8th graders are leading the school in a service project of collecting dry or canned foods and cash donations for the SF Marin Food Bank to help feed the thousands of hungry families who live in the Bay Area.  Last year, we collected over 1,200 pounds of food.  Let’s match or beat that goal!  The homeroom that collects the most donations will win a special prize. 

BVCC WINTER CAMP

If you would like your child to participate in the BVCC Winter Camp, open from December 26-28 and January 2-4, you can fill out and return the registration form which was sent home.  Forms are also available in the school office and in the Parish Hall with the BVCC After School Program.  

UNIFORM CHECK-IN

As the weather gets colder and you bundle up your child, please ensure that he/she follows uniform policy as posted by the school office and stated in the school handbook.  All undershirts, including long-sleeve undershirts, should be white.  If your daughter wears tights, they should be solid black or white and extend to the ankle.  Socks must be black or white.  Boots may not be worn.

PARENT VOLUNTEERS 

We depend on parent volunteer support throughout the school year!  We experienced wonderful school events—the Halloween festival, Family Movie Night, and 140th Anniversary—and those would not have been possible without our loving parent volunteers! Some upcoming events include our Christmas prayer service and reception, Family Lotería Night, and the Family Dance.  If you would like to help plan future events and fundraisers, or would like to join one of our parent groups, please contact Mrs. Jimenez at sjimenez@sanpedro.org or leave your name and number at the office.

NOVEMBER STUDENTS OF THE MONTH!

Homeroom teachers identify Students of the Month at the end of each month.  We celebrate these students because they have exemplified living the St. Peter’s KEYS:

Knowledge feeds GROWTH. 

Every ACCOMPLISHMENT needs courage.

You are LOVE.

SERVICE UNITES.

Kinder - Alexander Quiroz Galdamez demonstrates a positive attitude towards school and is a hard-working student. He is also respectful and kind to his peers. Alexander follows the classroom rules, helps students when needed and comes in everyday with a smile on his face. Keep up the good work Alexander! 

1A - Rio Rangel is an excellent example of a student who lives out St. Peter's KEYS. Rio is loving and kind to all those around her. She comes to school ready to learn and faces new challenges with an open heart and open mind. She works together with her classmates to achieve goals and help those in need. 

2A - Christopher Chirino-Sandoval always tries his best and likes to challenge himself to grow. He is thoughtful, caring, and honest. 

3A – Yazmin Montes is a hard worker who stays focused on her classwork, turns her homework in on time, and is very organized. She is consistently willing to help other students or her teacher. Yazmin exemplifies the St. Peter's KEYS by serving others, showing courage through her perseverance and study habits. 

4A - Jaykob Offril comes to school each day ready to learn and with a smile on his face. He is a hard worker who is very diligent and inquisitive! He demonstrates persistence in every aspect of his school work and he focuses on his high-quality work as a way he can grow as a student! He treats his classmates with respect and encourages others to try their best. He believes in the "Power of Yet" and is a true bucket filler. Congratulations, Jaykob!

5A – Damaris Ceron Ramos works so hard in everything she does and lives out St. Peter's Keys every single day. She has already GROWn so much in math and reading this year. Her high scores in ST Math and RAZ Kids show how much she is able to ACCOMPLISH because of this hard work. Her LOVE for her classmates and willingness to SERVE her peers and teachers help UNITE our class. Congratulations Damaris! 

6A - Alaysha Flores has been a joy to have in 6th grade and she always comes to school ready to learn. Alaysha has the KEYS to be successful in middle school and she has great intellectual curiosity, always asking questions to learn more! Alaysha is a wonderful support to her peers and her teachers and we are lucky to have her in 6th grade! Thank you Alaysha!

7A - Achella Ramirez works extremely hard and in the First Quarter was recognized as an Honors student at St. Peter School. As one of our Classroom Ambassadors, she welcomes everyone with an open mind and heart. She is a wonderful friend, classmate, and teammate. Keep up the good work, Achella!

8A - Bianca Langlois has demonstrated what it means to embrace new experiences with an open heart and open mind. She constantly tackles everything that has been thrown at her, from high school applications, Student Council duties as Vice President and serving as a tour guide for prospective families, ALL with a smile on her face. Bianca has also shown growth and curiosity in her academics by asking questions, putting forth effort and producing a final product to be proud of! Keep up the GREAT work Bianca! 

8B - Amaya Hernandez continues to show that she IS Love. Her positive and generous spirit demonstrates her gratitude for all that God has given her. She shares her time to help all those who need it, from our youngest students, to her peers, and her teachers. She encourages and supports others to strengthen her community. Amaya is a shining example of our KEYS. 

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - Welcome back! I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving break. This week, Kinder will begin Unit 4 and explore different tools that people use to do their jobs. For instance, a baker uses a spatula, measuring cup, bowl, blender, etc. As a whole class, we will talk about the many jobs that we see in our neighborhood (mailman, police officer, fire-man, doctor). In Math, we will continue to add and subtract to find the total amount.

1A - This week in first grade we are reading, writing, and learning about how people help out in the community. In religion, we are continuing to learn about God's Creation. In math, we are completing our subtraction unit and beginning our data and graphing unit. In science, we are experimenting with how air moves objects by constructing rockets. In social studies, we are talking about the important places in our community. 

2A - Students will be reading “Biblioburro” and telling time (hide your digital clocks!). We will talk about preparing for Advent season. The First Communion meeting is tonight at 5:45 in St. Peter's Church.

3A – Welcome back after Thanksgiving vacation. This week in Language Arts, 3A is beginning their first chapter book, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Parents - the students will be bringing home comprehension worksheets every other night to be completed. They will be bringing the chapter book home to help recall facts. PLEASE be sure that they bring the book back each day as we will continue reading in class. During math class, we will continue our rotational model using tablets to increase our knowledge of third grade math skills and improve our STAR test scores. Also, we'll continue to study basic math facts. We have six students that have mastered the addition/subtraction facts through the 12's and are on to the multiplication facts. 3A is working hard and continuing to excel in their studies. This class believes that accomplishments need courage and they are courageous. 

4A - We have an excitng week ahead in 4A! We will be focusing on the season of Advent during Religion. We will learn the importance and meanings of the different Advent symbols. We will begin to prepare our hearts for Jesus' birth. In Reading, we will focus on our book report. Students will analyze characters, discuss problems in the story, and write their own review! In Math, we will focus on larger digit multiplication leading up to two-digit by two-digit multiplication. We will also focus on multiplication word problems. In Social Studies, we will build on our knowledge of regions and discuss the early history of California. In Science, we will begin our focus on landforms. 

5A - Welcome back from Thanksgiving! 5th graders will be wrapping up our study of the Mayflower and the first Thanksgiving in social studies this week. In Language Arts, students will work to distinguish between important and interesting details so we can create better summaries of what we read. In math, we're officially kicking off our study of fractions! As always, check Class Dojo for daily updates from our classroom.

6A  Religion – Students will be continuing with the stories of Exodus and will be visited by Paula Pardini for Building Bridges.  Language Arts – We will begin our first novel unit, Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry, a riveting story about a family struggling to make it through the Great Depression, as they face racism, poverty, and violence. Students will be practicing citing textual evidence as they analyze the text.   Math - Students will continue to divide decimals by decimals and begin to multiply fractions.   Social Studies - Students will begin preparing for an Egypt Quest: Studying Vocabulary terms and Egypt Essay Questions.

7A  Religion - I hope all families enjoyed their time together during the Thanksgiving holiday.  We are blessed and have lots to be thankful for.  Language Arts - Welcome back! I hope everyone had a restful and filling Thanksgiving! Students are beginning to read A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. They are participating in small and whole group Reader's Theater to incorporate the element of drama. They are also taking a deeper look into the play's content with a variety of lesson extensions, starting with "Marley's Ghost."  Math - Students will continue to multiply fractions and begin dividing fractions.   Social Studies – Students will begin their research on a West African Civilization.   Science - Welcome back students! It's time to make these last few weeks of the year count. We will wrap up our time looking at cells, cell parts, and microscopes!

8A/8B   Religion – This week in religion, students will be wrapping up Unit 2 on the Eastern Church.   Language Arts - Welcome back! I hope everyone had a relaxing and delicious Thanksgiving! Students are beginning to read Night by Elie Wiesel. They are also preparing Cornell Style Notes to record the novel's content and personal observations. They are continuing their HSPT preparation with a presentation of strategies, general hints, tips and advice to ensure success in January.   Math – Students will continue to solve multi-step equations and practice using the distributive property to help solve them.  Social Studies – Students will be studying the main principles of the US Constitution.   Science - It's time to get serious about our rocket project. This week we continue on our measurement skills and look to start building our rockets by the end of the week.

REMINDERS

Nov. 28        5:45 PM First Communion Parent Meeting in Church 

Dec. 4           8:30 AM Advent Reconciliation, Grades 3-4

Dec. 5           Free Dress for No Tardies in November

Dec. 5-7        8th Grade Retreat in Occidental

Dec. 6           8:30 AM Advent Reconciliation, Grades 5-6

Dec. 7           9:30 AM School Mass – Feast of the Immaculate Conception

Dec. 11         8:30 AM Advent Reconciliation, 7A

Dec. 11-12    St. Peter’s Christmas Shop

Dec. 12         9:30 AM School Mass – Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe

Dec. 13         8:30 AM Advent Reconciliation, 8th Grade