Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Upper Elementary School
Published December 6, 2020
Volume 63
Adam Vinson - Upper Elementary School Principal
A MESSAGE FROM MR. VINSON
In Philippians 4:2-3 Paul calls for unity between two women who are at odds with each other. Not only does he affirm the value of each woman, he intentionally does not choose sides. I believe that in a case like this neither woman was technically right in their position or stance. Instead, they shared varying opinions and perspectives about something and were at odds about what to do next. Rather than trying to affirm one as right and one as wrong, Paul appeals to both to seek unity and agreement with each other. The only way this is possible is if both women are willing to take a step back and see the perspective of the other. I find this passage convicting because I am tempted to see myself as right in most situations. What a great reminder that as a believer who is committed to the gospel, I have to strive to see the views of others and be willing to do whatever necessary to pursue unity with those around me, even if I don’t always agree with someone.
LAST WEEK IN CHAPEL
Coach Carr spoke on our need to love God and to love others (Matt. 22:36-40) and explained that by doing so, we will begin to faithfully live out the tag lines for each of our Houses.
DECEMBER MEMORY VERSE: John 3:16-17 (ESV)
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.
LIONS OF THE WEEK
Congratulations to the following students that were nominated by their teachers for making good choices or setting a good example recently.
4th Grade = Gracie Smelley
5th Grade = Lucy Jackson
CHRISTMAS DRESS DOWN DAYS
Thursday, December 10: Candy Cane (Red and White)
Monday, December 14: Christmas Sweater (regular or ugly) and Christmas Socks
Tuesday, December 15: Cozy Christmas (Pajamas)
Wednesday, December 16: Holiday Cheer (Red and Green)
JUST READ REMINDER
Don’t forget to turn in your “Just Read” forms to your homeroom teacher as Mr. Vinson will be providing a reward next week for our students’ Quarter 2 performance!
SIX FLAGS “READ TO SUCCEED” TICKETS EXTENDED
Six Flags is extending the deadline for those who earned tickets last school year. Tickets will now be valid through August 31, 2021. Learn more at www.sixflags.com/read
THE HOLLY JOLLY TROLLY
The Christmas trolly full of holiday treats will be returning on Monday (Dec. 7), Tuesday (Dec. 8) and Thursday (Dec. 10).
END OF FALL SEMESTER (LAST WEEK SCHEDULE 12/14-12/18)
Dr. Anthony has granted us half days the final week of the Fall Semester as we look towards Christmas Break. We WILL NOT have a typical class Christmas party due to COVID restrictions, but we will have a Christmas breakfast to share with the students one day of the week.
Monday-Wednesday (School with half-day dismissal)
NOTE: Please arrive at the appropriate time, and do not arrive earlier to avoid traffic issues.
Students with Pre-K siblings - Dismissal begins at 11am
Students without Pre-K siblings - Dismissal begins at 11:30am
Thursday (Teacher Workday, Lower School programs - NO SCHOOL for students)
NOTE: Pre-K-3rd grade will have Christmas programs taking place on campus throughout the day.
Friday (NO SCHOOL - MERRY CHRISTMAS)
*For students who are unable to be picked up at the half day dismissal time on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday, we will provide free care until 3:30pm. Normal After School rates will apply after 3:30pm.
AFTER SCHOOL CLUB SCHEDULE
For details, please email Lisa Railey (lisa.railey@tcslions.org)
Tuesday - Drama Club - 4th-5th grades
Wednesday - Art Club - 4th-5th grades
Thursday - Chess Club - 1st-5th grades
Friday - Running Club - 4th-5th grades
Reminders
Sick Absences - Be sure to email Adam Vinson (adam.vinson@tcslions.org)
House Competition - Follow along all year www.tcshouses.weebly.com
Staff Contacts
Director of Student Life - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)
Available to assist with student life-related questions (field trips, parties, etc.), discipline issues, and social and emotional-related challenge.
Dean of Students - Ryan Tipton (ryan.tipton@tcslions.org)
Available to assist with disciplinary concerns.