Valentine’s Day was a lovely way to start this week (pun intended). Faculty, staff, and students enjoyed a visit from the Kindergarten Heart Cart full of treats, paper flowers, and heart-shaped and handmade novelties of all sorts. Every teacher and staff member also had a special bag for Valentine’s mail where notes, cards, and candies were left by many to let each one know how appreciated they are. Thanks to Betsy Rhodes for organizing that. And students exchanged valentines within their classes and with their Cardinal Buddies (though not in-person this time).
Our week has continued with a celebration of the 100th Day of School. We are more than halfway through the year! I, like many of you, wonder where the time has gone. Our youngest students have learned to count to 100, have a solid foundation in reading, writing, and all the basic subjects, plus have gained the social skills necessary for the business of learning (e.g., taking turns). Meanwhile, our eighth graders are looking toward their Career Shadowing experiences next month and beyond that to graduation. Wednesday also saw the final games of the basketball season, which also meant they were the last games at James River for the 8th graders. They and their parents were surprised at the games with a “senior night” tribute. It’s all just speeding by.
As we close out this week, I know many of us are looking forward to a relaxing long weekend, and one eighth grader has very special plans this weekend. Eloïse Koscielny was selected by audition to the VBODA District Band as a clarinetist. She and Leigh Berkley leave tomorrow for this two-day event in Martinsville. Congratulations to Eloïse on being selected as the 18th chair out of 57 clarinetists and to Viyka Hawkins on being named 1st alternate on the baritone. These young ladies and all our student musicians truly amaze me with their dedication to learning and improving.
Thanks, as always, for your support. Enjoy the long weekend!