Don't Let the Pigeon into Grade One!

The boys and girls in our class are incredibly kind-hearted, responsible kids who work really hard to make smart choices each day. They're a fantastic bunch! During the first week, we all promised to "Care, share and be fair" by pledging with our hand prints. Have you seen this sign by our door?

Can your child find his or her hand print?

But, rules are meant to be broken. At least, that's what our new friend, the pigeon, keeps telling us!

This past week we have really enjoyed a series of books by author Mo Willems that feature a persuasive, sassy pigeon who is always pushing the limits!

Such hilarious books! We loved them!

What's that pigeon up to now?

The boys and girls really enjoyed a YouTube clip of Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! We think you will love it, too!

Inspired by the picture books, the students set out to create their own set of rules for the pigeon, just in case he ever swings by Holy Redeemer! Would he know how to behave in school?

We followed the directed drawing instructions by Mo Willems himself to draw our own unique pigeons. Then the students each told Mrs. Beliveau what they didn't want the pigeon to do, and she typed it into a speech bubble. Then we did lots of careful cutting and gluing. 

Ta da! Our very own set of pigeon rules!

This project was excellent for reviewing our classroom and school expectations, and the students were so engaged. Who knew drawing a pigeon was so easy? There are now little pigeon doodles everywhere! To see all of our pigeon projects, please check our hall bulletin board.


Follow the pigeon's tweets at @The_Pigeon. 
For loads of fantastic Mo Wilems "pigeon-themed" fun, visit Pigeon Presents.



Project inspired by Art Dish with MJ. 

Care, Share and Be Fair

I think every student in our Grade One class would agree that it has been a joyful first week of school! We have been learning and playing together for four days, but it feels as though we have known each other much longer. I am so thankful to be able to work with such an energetic, compassionate and creative group of children!

 Our first few days were busy! We have been focussing on developing our daily routines. Thank you for being patient as we wait for the delayed shipment of our Agendas and Kangas. Once the Agendas arrive, please get into the habit of initializing them each evening. I will check them each morning. They are an excellent communication tool and help build responsibility in our little learners.

We have also been familiarizing ourselves with our classroom rules. Our classroom rules are simple; we have all promised to do our best to care, share and be fair. Be sure to look for these rules posted on the board by our classroom door, as each child sealed their promise with a handprint. Can you find your child's handprint?

The boys and girls imagined what would happen if we didn’t have rules to follow. We read two outrageous books by author David Shannon, No David! and David Goes to School. The students squealed in disbelief at some of the goofy choices David makes!

Below is a link to a video of No David!. Enjoy!