February is Almost Over

The crazy weather we have seen this month makes it difficult for young children to understand what the seasons really are. We have had springlike weather, and in 24 hours it has felt like we were transported to the Arctic or even Antarctica. The JK classes experienced this first-hand on their "Winter Nature Hike", Some classes saw beautiful blue skies and, fresh snow, and lots of tracks. It almost got too warm for the way we were dressed. Other classes were postponed because it rained. Then we had slush, and frozen ground, cloudy, overcast skies, but still discovered lots of evidence that animals had been in the area. The second graders have successfully hatched their frog eggs and now have batches of squiggly, squirmy tadpoles to observe.They are also looking forward to maple sugaring time which is fast approaching (calendar-wise). We'll see if winter gives up her hold on everything and the sap begins to run in a few weeks. The third graders have successfully launched their rockets after graduating from Mission Training as astronauts, and are on the long journey to Mars. While on their mission, they will be studying why we have seasons back on Earth, taking a closer look at the moon and its phases, and then examining Mars surface to find a safe place to land. Wish them luck on their expedition. The fourth graders are studying the effects of filter feeders on the turbidity of water, and also how nitrates can pollute our waters. They will also be studying how caves are formed, and the effects of glaciers on land surfaces. After the glaciers, the students will be selecting a science fair topic and preparing a science fair project. The science fair will be held on April 30, 2013, in Mellowes Hall. Please come and take a look at all the great work done by our 4th graders. Last but not least, USM's 1st S.T.E.M. Family Night will be held on Wed. Feb. 27, 2013. We have 12 families registered for a fun night of science, technology, engineering, and math!