I'm sorry I haven't sent out any news for the past 2 weeks. Our Bobcats were very busy the past two weeks. The children in second grade were learning the concept of multiplication and they were having so much fun with this new concept. Ask them to explain what they learned about mulitiplication and have them show you their mathematical thinking. The students in third grade were also studying multiplication but they had to make the connection to division as well. They had some creative ways of showing the multiplication and division fact families.
The first and second graders also completed the biographies they had been writing. When you come by to visit us at Baldwin, you will find many of their biographies displayed in the hallways; you will even find one about our Head Custodian, Betty and one about me. If you have a first or second grader, ask them to tell you about the biography they wrote and the process they went through to get it to the publishing stage. Way to Go Baldwin Bobcats!!
Let me begin by thanking all of the Baldwin Families that attended the Ross F. Baldwin Dedication on November 14th. It was a very special celebration for all of us especially for Mr. Baldwin's family and for the Baldwin students and staff. Our Bobcat Choir was amazing. They graced us with their beautiful voices and honored Mr. Baldwin with a melody of patriotic songs. They also showed all of the guests their Bobcat pride by singing the Baldwin School song. At the end of the celebration, the choir took a picture with Mr. Baldwin's son, Randy Baldwin, and the picture was posted on the AISD website under AISD Photos, campus events. At the dedication, we learned that Mr. Ross F. Baldwin was an advocate of public education and that he mentored many children in Austin schools. We also learned that Mr. Baldwin believed in "service before self." He gave of his time, talents and treasures to help others especially children. We are honored to be learning at Baldwin Elementary and I hope that together we will continue to uphold Mr. Baldwin's legacy of giving. Other photos of the dedication can also be viewed on the AISD website.
In this same spirit of giving, I want to thank all of the children that have donated a coat to the "Coats for Kids" campaign. Our PTA is working with the Baldwin children and families to collect coats to help others who may not have a coat for this winter. We have a box in the school foyer designated for this collection. Although we have collected some coats, we still need more. Please look through your closets and send us your coats that no longer fit anyone in your family. Thanks for your help with this campaign.
On Friday, November 12, I had a special guest working with me for half of the day. A first grader, Eli, was principal for 1/2 that day. This special afternoon was part of the silent auction. Eli and I visited all of the classrooms that Friday afternoon discussing the work that was posted in the hallways and the work that was taking place in the classrooms. Eli took extensive notes and he had great ideas, questions and connections. I am very proud of Eli and how focused he was on the task at hand. Eli's observations helped me see things from a different perspective. Thank you Eli for being a great student and principal!
This next week is a short week but I guarantee it will be a busy one. Tuesday is College Awareness Day so please have your child wear his or her favorite college/university shirt. We hope to have a representation of the many different choices our children can have to continue their learning after high school graduation. It will be a fun day for all of us!
Don't forget we only have classes on Monday and Tuesday of this week and then we get to take some time off for the Thanksgiving Holidays. We return back to learning on November 29th.
Also, December 6-10 will be our First Baldwin Book Fair. It is perfect timing for anyone that is looking for some great gifts for the holidays and birthdays. Mark your calendars so you can come by our library during book fair week to do some shopping!
I want to wish all of you a Happy Thanksgiving! I am grateful for all that you do to help us be the best at Baldwin Elementary!
Roaring with Pride,
Dr. Peña