First Grade Fun! Mrs. Hoffmann’s First Grade class is off to a great start! First Graders have been doing lessons and activities centered around a story in their reader called The Storm. The story is about a boy who is afraid during a thunderstorm. His grandpa comforts him during the storm. In Religion, Mrs. Hoffmann talked with the students about how Jesus comforts them during their time of need and when they are scared. They discussed how they can turn to Jesus through prayer to help them during a difficult time. In Science, First Grade worked with their lab partners in the Science Lab on a rain cloud experiment! They used a pipet to drop blue dye in shaving cream, which was on top of a beaker filled with water. The shaving cream represented a cloud. When the “rain cloud” filled up, the blue dye came “raining” down. During this experiment the students observed gravity pulling the water droplets (dye) down from the clouds (shaving cream), just like when it rains or storms. “The students really enjoyed this culminating activity that connected Literature and Science,” Mrs. Hoffmann explained.
Spectacular Second Grade! Second grade is a special year for the students. They each embark on an amazing spiritual journey with Jesus. The children prepare to meet Jesus in the sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Eucharist. “This is a wonderful time of growth in knowledge and participation in our faith,” said Mrs. Eberly. Students learn about the history of these sacraments and their importance in their day-to-day lives. In preparation for the sacrament of Reconciliation, Second Grade learns that Jesus’ command to love continues throughout their lifetime! It will be a series of successes and failures. Mrs. Eberly explained, “One of the great joys of life is that when we fail to love, we can always trust in God’s mercy and forgiveness.” As they begin their studies for the sacrament of Holy Eucharist, the students gain a deeper understanding of exactly what takes place during Mass, and what each part means. They have a special spiritual bond with their Eighth Grade prayer pals, praying for them and encouraging each other as both classes prepare to receive special sacraments. Eighth Grade and Second Grade prayer pals meet each month, and the older students assist the younger students in seasonal and spiritual activities.