The small reprieve from the snow has been nice, but it looks like there is more on the way, so rest up for another round of shoveling and powder skiing! There have been some changes in the calendar that David explained in his email. Please check the updated calendar on the school website for the updated information.

Expedition Express — Cartographer and Commanders:
We are in our final stretch of the Cartographers and Commanders Expedition. Last week we studied the major Mesoamerican tribes (Aztec, Inca, and Mayan). We will be using information to write an argumentative essay. The week of January 30th we will be focusing on our mentor shadowing presentations. And on the first week of February we will start our spring biology expedition, “What the Cell?!” Of course, this may change if we have more snow days.

Crew News:
I know it is not until the spring, but I wanted to remind you that spring fieldwork is planned for April 25-28, and we will need 6 drivers. We will be staying at Half Moon Bay and visiting genetics related sites around the bay area (universities, genetics companies, and museums). In February, I will select student liaisons that will be in charge of planning the fieldwork.

SELS News:
February 2nd and 3rd: Middle School Minimum Days
February 3rd: End of the semester, progress reports will be sent the following week.
February 20-24: Ski Skate Week

Highlights:
I want to highlight all of the students in our crew for the hard work they put into the KidZone Exhibit project. There were a lot of challenges during the planning and building process, but in the end the final products turned out great and they will enhance the already great environment at the KidZone. Also, thank you to the parents who helped at home: gathering supplies, cutting wood, and encouraging your child. We could not have done it without your help.

Here is a link to the Sierra Sun article about the project:
http://www.sierrasun.com/news/education/seventh-graders-donate-medieval-exhibits-to-kidzone/