Principal's Desk
December 2007
Mr. Michael H. LaMarca, Principal

Music at Buchanan Elementary
From Mr. Liebegott

We are very fortunate in the Mifflin County School District to have great support for the music program.  Our music curriculum is designed to improve student knowledge of music and its meaning in our society, as well as other diverse cultures.  Here at Buchanan, we learn about the elements of music, including rhythm, melody, and harmony by singing and playing instruments.  We also learn to appreciate new or unfamiliar styles and genres of music.  Finally, we learn how music is connected to math, science, language arts, and social studies.

This year, the students will be participating in a song writing project. Each class will be assigned one of the MCSD Character Traits. We will then write a new set of words to a familiar folk song. After all of the classes have completed their song, we will have an assembly to present them to each other.

Another program that is very well regarded is the instrumental music program. Students in 4th and 5th grades are given the opportunity to learn to play an instrument in a band setting.  The lessons are given to them free of charge and take place during the school day.  Research has shown that students who play an instrument  are generally more successful in other content areas. Not only do they learn to play an instrument, they gain important tools with regards to commitment, dedication, and perseverance.

The final highlight of our music program is the chorus.  Interested 4^th and 5^th grade students are allowed to join the chorus.  This group meets once a week and works to prepare music for the Winter and Spring Concerts. We sing a wide variety of music, both familiar and unfamiliar, and learn about proper singing techniques.

I would like to take this opportunity to invite you to join us on Tuesday, December 11 at 7 p.m. for our Winter Concert. Both the band and chorus will be performing holiday selections. The concert will be held in the Buchanan Elementary Cafeteria.

Thank you for your support of music in the Mifflin County School District.

Mifflin County Communities That Care

Mifflin County Communities That Care is bringing the SAFE HOMES program to Mifflin County!  This program was developed by the PA Liquor Control Board and provides parents with a tool that makes it easy to communicate and work with other parents in order to keep our children safe and drug-free.  If you are interested in more information, contact Communities That Care at 248-3994 or visit the Mifflin County School District website: www.mcsdk12.org .

Tips for Raising a Successful Student

From Family Education Network:                 

http://school.familyeducation.com

Many things contribute to a child’s success in school, but research has shown that parental involvement is one of the most important. The key is to make learning an enjoyable activity, while not putting too much pressure on your child.

Developing educational habits outside of school is important because children do not only learn when they are in school. Children learn everywhere. Here are some healthy habits to work into your regular routine.

1. Make reading an important part of your home life.

2. Know what interests your children.

3. Provide a quiet and comfortable learning environment for your child.

4. Keep a positive attitude about school.

Home & School Meetings - every 3rd Tuesday of the month
                       All Parents Encouraged To Attend! Held in Buchanan Library @ 6:30 p.m.
                        Next Meeting-Tuesday, January 15

Santa Sale-  Tuesday, December 4-Thursday, December 6

 Tuesday, December 18- 9:30– LAHS Chorus
                                        1:30– Santa’s List Assembly

Winter Band and Chorus Concert - Tuesday, December 11 @ 2:00p.m. and 7:00p.m.

December 24-January 1- Christmas Vacation

Arrival Time Information

Please be aware that we do not have supervision at school prior to 7:45 a.m. If your child is riding the bus, this should not be a problem. If you are bringing your child to school, please arrive between 7:45-8:10 a.m. Your cooperation in this matter is greatly appreciated. Students planning to eat breakfast should arrive by 8:00a.m.

Breakfast Cost: $1.00
Extra Milk: 35 cents
Lunches: $1.75

2007-2008 Character Traits

1st quarter– Honesty
2nd quarter–  Optimism
3rd quarter– Respect
|4th quarter–  Responsibility