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November 2023 Newsletter

Updated: Nov 7, 2023

Dates to Remember

No School 11/6 & 11/7 Conferences 11/6 & 11/16 School Board Meeting 11/13 MIPTO Meeting 11/14 Thanksgiving Break, No School 11/22 - 11/24 Gratitude & Giving ends 11/22 For more details visit - Matoska Calendar

Every year, we have a Gratitude & Giving Drive during the month of November in support our mission to build a strong community that represents all students and families, focusing on the philosophy and goals of Matoska for its long-term growth and success. Showing gratitude strengthens relationships which helps build a strong community. And giving helps ensure that we can continue to fund events and unique experiences for our students and families to help Matoska continue to grow.

Visit our program page to learn more about how to participate in this year's drive.

This magical story explores the world of Giants who live above the clouds. Ever since they left Earth a long time ago, the Giants have made a life up above where their job is to keep the sky beautiful. They polish the stars, poke the clouds to let it rain and paint the sunsets. But there is one curious Giant who wonders what life is like on Earth, so she steals a key to the locked up “beanstalk” and embarks on an adventure down below!

Buy your tickets for the following productions below! Or call the box office at 651-478-7427.

Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 // 5:00 PM Get Tickets >

Saturday, Dec. 9, 2023 // 11:00 AM Get Tickets >

Sunday, Dec. 10, 2023 // 11:00 AM Get Tickets >

IB INQUIRERS

A note from Julie Stonehouse

Hello, Matoska families~

I am continuing to share those QR codes that I referenced last month. This month, using the code below or this link, you can watch a brief (3 minute) video that explains Action in the IB. Action is central to student agency. Through taking action, students come to realize the responsibility that comes with being internationally minded and working with others toward a shared purpose.

One of our kindergarten teachers reached out today to share a story from her classroom last week: students were questioning why there was no school on Tuesday, which led to a very brief conversation about Election Day and voting, including that this was a right for adult citizens of the US. Later that afternoon during playtime, some students asked for large paper, got busy illustrating their ideas, and then asked the teacher to add words to explain their posters advocating for kids being able to vote. It was authentic advocacy, even before these students had learned what advocacy was. Way to go learners!!

If you have any questions about this element of the IB, please contact me. Or, if there are particular aspects of our IB school that you would like to learn more about in this column, please let me know! Thanks and happy Autumn!

Julie Stonehouse

julia.stonehouse@isd624.org

"THEATER NIGHT OUT" with Children's Performing Arts

Elf Jr. the Musical runs from December 8th-17th at Lakes International Language Academy and features many White Bear Lake students. By using the code MATOSKA (all caps) provided in the pdf (linked here), families will get $1 off each of their tickets, and for every ticket that has been purchased, we will give $1 back to your PTO!

Get Tickets Here

Any questions can be directed maddier@childrensperformingartsmn.org

DENTAL SEALANT PROGRAM

Our school will be hosting the Minnesota School Sealant Program, where your child has the opportunity to receive FREE or reduced cost preventive dental services at school. A licensed dental professional will be offering sealants, cleanings, and fluoride varnishes to students. Click HERE for details.

BOOK FAIR

The Maker Space is hosting a Scholastic Book Fair during the week of November 27th. Families are welcome to shop on Tuesday, November 28th from 3:00 PM to 7:30 PM. Students will have an opportunity to shop during an assigned time with their class.

Have a couple of hours , they are looking for volunteers.

THANK YOU

Jersey Mike's

Thanks to everyone who came out and supported the Jersey Mike's Fundraiser. We were told it was the best fundraiser Jersey Mike's has ever had and they will be giving us roughly $400. Way to go Matoska Families.

Be on the look out for more opportunities like this in 2024!

Homecoming 2023

Thanks to all the students and parents that helped make bracelets and represented Matoska by walking in the Homecoming parade last month.

Go Bears!