Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!



I hope that everyone has a very Happy and Safe Christmas break. I can't wait to see you next year!

Christmas Riddles


Q. What kind of bird can write?
A. A pen-guin

Q. What do you get if you cross Santa with a detective ?
A. Santa Clues!

Q. What did Adam say on the day before Christmas?
A. It's Christmas, Eve.

Q. Why does Santa Claus like to work in the garden?
A. Because he like to hoe, hoe, hoe!

Q. What happened when the snowwoman got angry at the snowman?
A. She gave him the cold shoulder.

Cats Have Character - Respect!

During December the Bloomfield Elementary School is promoting respect for self and others. Parents can access the Cats Have Character newsletters and other counseling related information at the left of this blog. The December newsletter is filled with ideas to encourage our students to treat others the way they want to be treated. Also, on December 14 from 6:30-8:00 BES families are invited to a Family Fun Night sponsored by BES and PTO. Activities include: ornament making, Christmas card making, refreshments, Mrs. Claus reading stories, estimation games, a surprise visit from Santa Claus to make gift requests, and 2nd grade performing Christmas carols. BES wishes everyone a Merry Christmas!

Winter Awareness Day is November 18

Missouri’s Recent Winter Storms Have Been Costly

Missouri has experienced three severe winter storms since January 2008
that have knocked out power to hundreds of thousands of homes and
businesses and caused millions of dollars in damage to private
property. At the height of the power outages following the January
26-28, 2009 ice storm, 135,000 customers were without electricity. Eight
people died as a result of the storm that left a layer of ice more than 2
inches thick in some parts of southern Missouri.

According to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, there
were 26 cold-weather related deaths during the winter of 2008-09 and 23
deaths during the winter of 2007-08. The National Weather Service, the
State Emergency Management Agency and your local Emergency Management
Agency have set Wednesday, November 18, 2009, as Winter Awareness Day.

“The winter awareness campaign encourages Missourians to prepare for and
protect themselves during a snow or ice storm. Cold weather puts a
strain on your heart. In the event of snow fall, citizens are urged to
the careful when shoveling snow, pushing a car out of a snow bank and to
generally avoid overexertion in the winter,” said SEMA Director Paul
Parmenter.

Important terms the National Weather Service uses when forecasting are
“Winter Storm Watch” and “Winter Storm Warning.”

· Winter Storm Watch indicates that severe winter weather
may affect your area within 12-48 hours.
· Winter Storm Warning indicates severe winter weather is
in the area or expected immediately and can be life threatening.
· Ice Storm Warning is issued for ice accumulations of a
quarter-inch or more.

Missourians can prepare for winter by:

· Creating a family emergency plan and creating an
emergency kit with additional water and food that can be prepared without
cooking in case of a power outage.
· Securing an alternate fuel source such as firewood or a
generator. Make sure your fireplace functions properly. If you have a
generator, make sure you have fuel, your generator functions properly.
Only operate the generator outdoors.
· Creating a winter car kit in the trunk of the car.
This includes a blanket, spare radio with batteries, snacks or energy-type
food, jumper cables, flares, shovel, sand or shingles to give tires
traction.

More information can be found at the following websites:

SEMA Winter Awareness
http://sema.dps.mo.gov/semapage.htm.


Missouri’s Ready in 3 program:
http://www.dhss.mo.gov/Ready_in_3

Missouri Dept. of Transportation’s Road Conditions:
http://www.modot.mo.gov/

National Weather Service - St. Louis Winter Campaign:
http://www.crh.noaa.gov/lsx/?n=winterday

NWS’s Winter Deceptive Killer Brochure:
http://www.weather.gov/os/brochures/winterstorm.pdf

FEMA’s Winter Awareness Campaign:
http://www.fema.gov/areyouready/winter.shtm

Cats Have Character ! Citizenship

Cats Have Character! During November the Bloomfield Elementary School is promoting citizenship and career development. Parents can access the Cats Have Character newsletters and other counseling related information on the blog links. The November newsletter is filled with ideas to encourage our students to obey the rules and work to make their community a better place. We will highlight different careers by having the students and staff dress up on Career Day - November 20. BES will also honor our nation’s veterans with activities during the week of November 9 – 13.

Red Ribbon Week Oct. 26-30

The Bloomfield R-14 School District is gearing up for Red Ribbon Week during October 26-30. The Red Ribbon Campaign was started when drug traffickers in Mexico City murdered Kiki Camarena, a DEA agent, in 1985. This began the continuing tradition and displaying of Red Ribbons as a symbol of intolerance towards the use of drugs. The mission of the Red Ribbon Campaign is to present a unified and visible commitment toward the creation of a drug-free America. The district’s Red Ribbon Week theme is “Band together to be drug-free.” Many fun activities are planned during the Red Ribbon Campaign. These activities include pledges, dress-up days, and a school-wide parade. All students will be given the opportunity to sign a pledge to be drug-free. That pledge will go into a drawing for small prizes during the week. Students and staff will show their commitment to making healthy choices by dressing up each day. Monday is Mix-Up Day, Tuesday is Purple and Gold Day, Wednesday is Pajama Day, Thursday is Camouflage Day, and Friday is Costume Day. We will celebrate being drug-free with a school-wide parade at 1:30PM on Friday, October 30. The parade route will begin at the HS gym, go up Seneca Street, turn right on South Prairie Street, turn right on Center Street, and continue back to school. Parents and friends are invited to watch the fun. Check out more information at:
http://ncadi.samhsa.gov
http://nida.nih.gov/pubcat
http://dmh.missouri.gov/ada/adaindex.htm
http://drugabuse.gov/prevention/risk.html
http://nodrugs.com
http://dpri.com
http://drugfree.org

National School Bus Safety Week Oct. 19-23


National School Bus Safety Week is sponsored by the National Association for Pupil Transportation and is held each year during the third week of October. Here are some websites to find more information regarding school bus safety:
http://teachersandfamilies.com/open/parent/busbasics.cfm
http://schoolbussafety.com
http://childparenting.about.com/od/healthsafety/aschoolbussafety.htm
http://dss.mo.gov/stat/safety/bus.htm

Cats Have Character! Self-Discipline

For October Bloomfield Elementary School is promoting self-discipline and drug prevention. Parents can access newsletters and other counseling related information under the newsletter link on the left of this blog. The Self-Discipline newsletter provides parents with ideas to encourage our students to be in control of their thoughts and actions. Bloomfield Elementary will celebrate Red Ribbon Week during October 26 – 30. The Red Ribbon Campaign was started when drug traffickers in Mexico City murdered Kiki Camarena, a DEA agent, in 1985. This began the continuing tradition and displaying of Red Ribbons as a symbol of intolerance towards the use of drugs. The mission of the Red Ribbon Campaign is to present a unified and visible commitment toward the creation of a drug-free America. The Bloomfield Elementary Red Ribbon Week theme is “It’s up to ME to be drug FREE.” We have many fun activities in store for Bloomfield Elementary this month.

Get Your Angries Out

I found a great website to help families when angry feelings start to surface. Everyone gets the angries, but sometimes they make us say and do things that we don't really mean. This website has resources to help families learn how to release those mads in safe ways, so that no one gets hurt and everyone feels better. Check it out at http://www.angriesout.com/

Celebrate Your Weekend

We have had a great week at BES. I know everyone is looking forward to the 3 day weekend. I found some fun ways for you to celebrate. Saturday is National Cheese Pizza Day so chow down on some delicious pizza (I'll have to add pepperoni to mine). Sunday is National Read A Book Day which is one of my favorite hobbies. Then, of course, Monday is National Labor Day. I always thought it was funny that we called it Labor Day, but most people don't have to go to work...HHHMMMMM Have a great weekend!

Cats Have Character!

Bloomfield Elementary School has an exciting comprehensive guidance program component entitled “Cats Have Character.” “Cats Have Character” promotes 10 different character traits throughout the school year: Integrity, Responsibility, Self-Discipline, Citizenship, Respect, Perseverance, Compassion, Honesty, Trustworthiness, and Fairness. A Student/Parent Newsletter and Staff Newsletter will be provided each month by Mrs. Mayo. Parents can access the newsletters at the left of this blog. Each newsletter will be full of ideas to encourage our students to learn about and demonstrate character every day. Lessons and activities will be incorporated in the school day to reinforce the importance of each character trait. The character trait for August is Integrity. The students and staff at Bloomfield Elementary will engage in activities that encourage being strong enough to do what you know is right.

Great Job!

What a great week! Thank you for making this week so enjoyable. It's exciting to be back with all of you. Have a wonderful weekend...enjoy the beautiful weather!

Welcome Back to School!

Wow! I can't believe the summer went so fast. I hope you had a great break and are ready to start off the 2009-2010 school year with a smile. I'm looking forward to this new year and the exciting activities that BES has in store. I can't wait to see you all on the first day!

Have a Great Summer!

I hope you have a very relaxing and fun summer. Let me know how many books you read and the cool places you visit. Enjoy your time off from school. Have fun and stay safe!

Stories to Grow By

Here is a cool website to use this summer. This site has fairytales, folktales & children's plays with positive themes for kids. I use some of these stories in the comprehensive guidance lessons throughout the school year. Enjoy!
http://www.storiestogrowby.com/default.html

Go for the Gold!

MAP testing is underway for 3rd-5th grades. Attendance is very important during achievement testing. Be sure to get a good night's sleep and eat a healthy breakfast every day. This is the chance for our students to shine and Go for the Gold!

MAP Testing for 3rd-5th Grades

Bloomfield Elementary has been working hard all year and we are ready to show off during MAP Achievement Testing. Third through Fifth Grade will be completing the Missouri Assessment Program (M.A.P.) during April 27- May 1.
Here are some test taking tips for students and parents:
1. Get plenty of rest the night before each testing session.
2. Eat a healthy breakfast.
3. Be at school every day.
4. Do your very best – testing is very important. This is your chance to shine!
5. Don’t get stressed. Use the stress relieving techniques Mrs. Mayo taught you.
6. Take your time.
7. Answer all of the questions thoroughly.
8. Go back over your work and check for careless mistakes.

Check out these websites for more information on testing and test anxiety:
http://www.schoolspecialtypublishing.com/newsletter_jan09.aspx
http://www.schoolspecialtypublishing.com/newsletter_jan08.aspx
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/153281/how_to_beat_test_anxiety.html?cat=7
http://www.schuylervilleschools.org/parentnewsletters/junior%20high/jrhigh.testanxiety.htm
http://parentingteens.about.com/cs/education/a/test_taking.htm
http://www.education.com/reference/article/Ref_Helping_Your_Test/
http://www.schoolcounselor.org/content.asp?contentid=283

Cats Have Character!

During the month of April the Bloomfield Elementary School is promoting trustworthiness. Parents and staff can click on the April newsletter at the left hand side of this blog. This newsletter is filled with ideas to encourage students to show others that they can count on them to do the right thing. Parents, educators, and the community can help promote trustworthiness by modeling good character and encouraging our students to live with integrity, by being honest, reliable, and loyal. Living with integrity means having the courage to do what is right, to speak about what you think is wrong, and to try new things even when they are difficult or you might fail. Integrity often takes the willingness to do what is right, even if it is costly or risky. Honesty is being truthful and sincere in your actions and words, and accomplishing goals fairly, without cheating or stealing. Reliability is shown by keeping your promises, doing what you say you will do, and being dependable. Loyalty means protecting and supporting your family, friends, school, and country.

Terra Nova Achievement Testing

Kindergarten, First Grade, and Second Grade are getting a chance to shine this week. Terra Nova Achievement Testing is going on throughout the week of April 6-9. Please help our students do their very best by encouraging them to:
1.Get plenty of rest the night before each testing session.
2.Eat a healthy breakfast.
3.Be at school every day.
4.Do your very best – Achievement testing is very important. This is your chance to SHINE!
5.Take your time. Only one short portion of the test is timed.
6.Don’t get stressed. Use the stress relieving techniques Mrs. Mayo taught you
7.Answer all of the questions thoroughly.
8.Go back over your work and check for careless mistakes.

MAP Testing Changes

Due to inclement weather the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has extended the testing window for the Missouri Assessment Program (MAP). Bloomfield Elementary has changed the MAP dates to April 27-May 1.

Spring Achievement Testing

Bloomfield Elementary has been working hard all year and we are ready to show off during Spring Achievement Testing. Kindergarten through Second Grade will be taking the Terra Nova Achievement Test during the week of April 6-9. Third through Fifth Grade will be completing the Missouri Assessment Program (M.A.P.) during March 30 - April 3.
Here are some test taking tips for students and parents:
1. Get plenty of rest the night before each testing session.
2. Eat a healthy breakfast.
3. Be at school every day.
4. Do your very best – testing is very important. This is your chance to shine!
5. Don’t get stressed. Use the stress relieving techniques Mrs. Mayo taught you.
6. Take your time.
7. Answer all of the questions thoroughly.
8. Go back over your work and check for careless mistakes.

Check out these websites for more information on testing and test anxiety:
http://www.schoolspecialtypublishing.com/newsletter_jan09.aspx
http://www.schoolspecialtypublishing.com/newsletter_jan08.aspx
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/153281/how_to_beat_test_anxiety.html?cat=7
http://www.schuylervilleschools.org/parentnewsletters/junior%20high/jrhigh.testanxiety.htm
http://parentingteens.about.com/cs/education/a/test_taking.htm
http://www.education.com/reference/article/Ref_Helping_Your_Test/
http://www.schoolcounselor.org/content.asp?contentid=283

Cats Have Character!

For March Bloomfield Elementary School is promoting honesty and successful test taking skills. Parents and staff can go to the link under Newsletters at the left of this blog to access the March newsletter with ideas to help our students to be truthful and sincere. Parents and staff are also encouraged to help our students apply self-management skills needed for educational achievement as well as preparing for achievement testing at the end of March and beginning of April.

Radon Test Kits

Free radon test kits can be ordered on-line from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services' Radon Program at www.dhss.mo.gov/Radon or by calling toll free 1-866-628-9891.

Cats Have Character - February

For February Bloomfield Elementary School is promoting compassion and citizenship. Parents and staff can go to the link on this blog to access the February newsletter with ideas to help our students to be kind and thoughtful toward others. Parents and staff are also encouraged to help our students understand their role as a citizen in a local and global community. During the comprehensive guidance lessons presented throughout the month students will explore their personal roles related to family, school, and community

National School Counseling Week

National School Counseling Week 2009 is being celebrated during the week of February 2 - 6. The theme for this year is "School Counselors: Making a Difference." National School Counseling Week, sponsored by the American School Counselors Association, focuses public attention on the unique contribution of professional school counselors within U.S. school systems and highlights the tremendous impact school counselors can have in helping students achieve school success and career planning. Being a school counselor is one of the most fulfilling, yet difficult jobs I have ever had. I am so thankful for the relationships I have made over the years with students and staff. Every morning I look forward to making a difference in the lives of those I encounter throughout the day. This week is an opportunity for me to say thank you to everyone who makes my job so rewarding!

School Board Recognition Week

This week is National School Board Recognition Week. Our students and staff greatly appreciate how hard our school board works to make our school successful. The students are showing their appreciation to our school board with cards, letters, posters, and newspaper articles. A GREAT BIG THANK YOU goes out to David Cooper, Don Lafferty, Tom Sanders, David Battles, Ryan Mayo, Trevor Pulley, and Bill Robison.

Missouri Assessment Program (MAP)

Bloomfield Elementary has been continually practicing for achievement testing in the spring. Third - Fifth Grades will be using the state assessment called MAP. Third and Fourth Grades will be tested on Communication Arts and Mathematics objectives. Fifth Grade will be tested on Communication Arts, Mathematics, and Science. Here is a link that parents can access for more information about MAP:
http://its.leesummit.k12.mo.us/parentmap.htm

Cats Have Character!

For January Bloomfield Elementary is promoting perseverance and improving educational achievement. The January Newsletter (located on the left hand side of this blog) is full of ideas to encourage our students to work hard and not give up. Goal setting is an important part of perseverance. Parents and staff are encouraged to help our students think ahead, plan activities in order, and understand cause and effect.

Happy New Year!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. I wish everyone a blessed 2009!