Expedition Express

I’ve Been Working on the Railroad:  The task of constructing a Transcontinental Railroad was truly a “crazy” idea by Theodore Judah, but the students in our crew have embraced the challenge to learn about the people responsible for the completion of this monumental project.

Students are currently working hard on their scripts that they will perform during our Celebration of Learning.  Each child has selected a major player on the railroad and is writing a Chautauqua historical fiction narrative based on that character.  They will transform into that character next month.  

Questions of the Week:

  • Describe the character you will portray at Celebration of Learning on December 19?
  • What important role did that person have in the construction of the railroad?
  • In your opinion, what was the most difficult part of the building of the railroad in the 1860’s?

How can I help my child prepare for their Chautauqua?

  1. Begin by thinking about what your child would like to wear to Celebration of Learning to dress in character. This should not be a BIG deal, but rather look in your closet for time period clothing of a railroad worker in the 1860’s.  Flannel shirts, overalls, work gloves, tools, etc.  If your child is Abraham Lincoln or a business man, a more business type attire would be great.  A button down shirt and tie would do the trick.
  2. Practice at home each evening.  Scripts will come home after Thanksgiving break.  
Crew News

Nevada County Library:  Our crew will be walking to the Nevada County Library on Thursday, November 21. Please be sure your child brings their library books to school that day.  We will walk, snow, rain, or shine. Send your child with the appropriate outerwear to walk in any weather condition.
Harvest of the Month:  This Friday, Nikki Riley will serve up Persimmons for Harvest of the Month.  Be sure to ask your child what they thought of their new fruit experience.
Daily Planners:  Remember to read and inital Daily Planners every night.  
Holiday Homework:  During Holiday breaks, the only required homework is nightly reading.  Students should read 4 – 5 days during their breaks.  A reduced amount of homework is sent home for the week prior to the holiday break.
Book Orders:  There will be one more Scholastic Book Order sent home following the Thanksgiving Break. This is a great opportunity to order holiday gifts for your budding readers.  Kids love getting new books to read and this keeps their reading skills strong during the breaks.
SELS News

Minimum Day:  Wednesday, November 20 is a Minimum Day.  K-5 students will be dismissed at 1:00
Bear Walk:  If you have not returned your Bear Walk donations, please finish all collections and turn them in before Thanksgiving Break.
Gratitude Dinner:  Mark your calendar for the annual SELS Gratitude Dinner on Friday, December 6th. This event is an ALL SCHOOL dinner at the Recreation Center.  More information will come home soon. Looking forward to spending an evening with all of you and your wonderful children. I am truly grateful for each and every family in our crew.
Dates to Remember:
  • Nov. 20:  Minimum Day – School dismissed at 1:00
  • Nov. 21:  Nevada County Library (dress for weather)
  • Nov. 22:  Harvest of the Month
  • Nov. 25 – 29:  NO SCHOOL – Thanksgiving break
  • Dec. 06:  Gratitude Dinner – Truckee Recreation Center
  • Dec. 19:  Celebration of Learning – 6:00 – 7:30