Dear Sicomac Families,
This is truly a wonderful time of year filled with chances to reflect on what matters most and what we are grateful for. At Sicomac, we are so fortunate to have a school full of energetic, curious, and kind students who consistently show up as their best selves. We are surrounded by teachers and staff who work tirelessly, support one another, and continuously look for ways to elevate learning for every child. And we have amazing families who partner with us every day and who care deeply about our school community. Thank you for everything you do to ensure that each of our Sicomac Eagles is safe, supported, and ready to thrive at school every day (beginning at 8:50).
School-wide Assembly
Our November school-wide assembly highlighted our theme of gratitude. Third graders wowed us with their Thanksgiving Day Parade-style balloon creations, and we proudly welcomed our newest student leaders. Safety Patrol members were officially sworn in, and Student Council representatives took their oaths as well. We are incredibly proud of these students for stepping into leadership roles and already making a positive impact throughout our school.
Friends from Finland
This past Monday, we had the privilege of hosting Dr. Kaisa Vuorinen and her colleague, Louis Bui, from Finland. They spent the day with me visiting classrooms and observing math, reading, morning meeting, and lunch and recess. They also had the chance to meet with staff and speak with many of our students.
Dr. Vuorinen was deeply impressed by the engaging energy in our classrooms and the strong culture of care throughout the building at Sicomac. She noted the meaningful ways we provide individualized instruction, use small-group practices throughout the day, and intentionally build character and soft-skills by embedding practice opportunities throughout the school day. Below, I've included a message from Dr. Vuorinen to our families:
Dear Sicomac School Families,
My name is Dr. Kaisa Vuorinen, an educational expert from Finland and founder of See the Good! I have spent over 15 years researching strengths-based education and school well-being, and I recently had the privelege of spending a day at your school.
Your children are learning an an exceptional environment. From the moment I arrived, I felt the warmth, calm, and safety that make Sicomac such a special place. The classrooms I visited wer beautifully designed; peaceful, and welcoming.
What impressed me most were the relationships. Teachers use warm, encouraging voices, build warm and positive connections, and create a supportive atmosphere where students feel seen and valued.
Your children showed remarkable courage and kindness. They welcomed me openly, shared their ideas, and engaged deeply in learning. Their enthusiasm reflects the strong, nurturing culture you have built together. Sicomac School is a warm, connected community where well-being and learning flourish side by side. It was an honor to visit, and I look forward to future collaboration.
Warmly,
Dr. Kaisa Vuorinen, PhD, Finland
iReady Middle of Year Diagnostic
On Monday and Tuesday, students in Kindergarten through 5th grade will participate in the Middle of Year iReady Diagnostic. This assessment helps us identify the skills students have already mastered and the areas where they may benefit from additional support. It also allows us to measure the academic growth they have achieved so far this year. Thank you for encouraging your child to do their best! We look forward to using the data to support continued progress for our students.
Here's What's Coming Up at Sicomac
12/10 - PTO Meeting (Virtual) 7:30pm
12/11 - 4th & 5th Grade Chorus Holiday Concert 10:00am
12/12 - Sicomac Polar Express
12/12 - Report Cards on Genesis 3:00pm
12/23 - Minimum Day
12/24-1/4 - School Closed for Holiday Recess