Happy Holidays!

Good Afternoon,

I want to start off by wishing every a safe, happy, and healthy Holiday break. I hope everyone is able to spend quality time with the ones you cherish most, as I know it can be a very busy time of season with lots of emotions. The 4th Graders earned a much deserved celebration today for all of their hard work and efforts so far this school year. I am looking forward to our return on January 2nd, and picking up where we left off ready to build on all of their growth this first part of the school year. We have lots to look forward to, but it's important to sharpen the saw this break, recharge, and then we will be our best versions of our selves when we return. Happy Holidays to everyone!

Week in Review:

Leader in Me:  This week, students learned how to say no to less important things and how to say no to negative peer pressure. Students learned to use self-regulation strategies when they feel big emotions from negative peer pressure. Invite your learner to teach you about the comfort zone and the courage zone.

Writing: This week, 4th grade writers focused on adding insight and explanation to their literary essays, strengthening their beginnings and endings. They worked on crafting engaging starts and impactful conclusions. Students also reflected on each part of the writing process, considering their progress and areas for improvement.

Math: This week, 4th grade mathematicians focused on reviewing how to order fractions and decimals on a number line in preparation for the Unit 3 test. They spent time practicing key concepts and reinforcing their understanding of these skills. The review allowed students to revisit everything they've learned so far in the unit, giving them a chance to feel confident and ready for the test. 

Reading: This week, 4th grade readers focused on analyzing narrative nonfiction texts. They practiced gathering text evidence, quoting key moments, and studying characters’ actions and growth. Students also connected these details to themes in the story to strengthen their understanding and comprehension.

Content: This week, our 4th graders began exploring Wisconsin’s government as part of their Social Studies unit. They learned about how the United States developed its government after the Revolutionary War and how that history led to the creation of local, state, and federal governments. Understanding the differences between these levels of government can be tricky, but students focused on learning how Wisconsin’s government operates and how it fits into the larger U.S. system. 

  • Thank you to a parent who shared this great resource which can benefit your 4th grader and family! Every fourth grader in the US is eligible to receive a free pass for their family to visit America’s natural wonders and historic sites, which accesses hundreds of parks, lands and waters for an entire year! Visit everykidoutdoors.gov/rules.htm for more information and to get your pass!


A Look Ahead:

  • December 23rd - January 1st - No School
  • Madison Field Trip - Thursday, April 10th
  • See below on information from the District for subbing opportunities!


That's all for this week!

Have a great weekend!


Mr. VW









Do you want to make a difference in Kaukauna? 
Would you like to help your child's school out? 
Do you like kids?
Are you good with kids? 
 
Then you should become a KASD SUB!! 

Talented and skilled substitute teachers and educational assistants are critical to our district. Becoming a sub aids in the instructional and procedural continuity of the district. We are so thankful for our wonderful subs! 

To become a Certified Substitute Teacher the state requires a minimum of an associate's degree and the completion of an 8 hour Substitute Training Program - in person or self guided modules from the comfort of your own home - through CESA 6 (see first link below). Once the 8 hours are complete, you will receive the certification of completion. You will then log onto the Department of Public Instruction website (DPI) (see second link below) and apply for the Short Term Substitute License. In the application, DPI will require you to upload your completion certification from the substitute training program. 

Here is the link to the CESA 6 substitute training program: 

https://www.cesa6.org/teachers/educator-licensing/substitute-teacher-training

After the program is complete, here is the link to DPI - where you will need to go after you acquire the certificate from CESA: 

https://dpi.wi.gov/licensing/apply-educator-license/sub-permit

To become an Educational Assistant Substitute no degree or certification is necessary! You just have to like kids and be reliable! Please log onto WECAN, and apply today to become an EA sub. Your school and district thank you!

Both positions - Certified Subs and EA Subs - are posted on WECAN.  Here's the link:https://wecan.waspa.org/    Please apply when you're ready and I will reach out to you once your application comes through.  

Feel free to reach out to me with any questions. 

Thank you!



Holly Parks
Human Resources and Business Services Associate
Kaukauna Area School District




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