Learning with Leffers

Celebrate and learn about MLK with these free family-friendly activities from Indy Family Resources .   Many local museums and attractions offer free admission. 

Welcome back!  I hope everyone had a restful break.  This new semester if full of opportunities to explore Carmel Middle School and all it has to offer.  Below are some tentative dates you will want to mark on your calendar.   Please check your e-mail for notices from CMS as these dates get closer.   CCS Parent Information Nights   & Demo Concert  You should have recently received an email from CCS regarding Parent Information Nights about Middle School programming and scheduling. There are three options to choose from, and you only need to attend one. Students are welcome to attend as well and check out a demonstration performance from band, choir and orchestra. The dates are as follows: Clay MS - January 14th at 6:30pm in the Auditorium Creekside MS - January 27th at 6:30pm in the Auditorium Carmel MS - February 4th at 6:30pm in the Auditorium An  Activity Night  is also scheduled.  This is an event for students...

Wishing you all a restful and fun-filled break!  Here are some pictures from last week's gingerbread project.  I apologize that not all students are included in these photos.  We had several students out sick this past Friday.   Mrs. Leffers

 PTO is excited to announce the first ever book swap during our party this Friday.  Please bring in a wrapped book (gently used or new) with your child.   Students will participate in a book swap as well as games and a craft.  All festivities start at 1:30 on Friday.  We hope to see you there. Mrs. L

Our new unit in  TCI  focuses on identifying the key features of the early British colonies.  Today students participated in a colony simulation to help them better understand the work needed to set up a new settlement.  Each group worked cooperatively to choose the supplies they would need for the trip as well as select a location for their new colony.   Students discussed and debated on which supplies would be most helpful in their journey, and many groups had to make sacrifices for the good of the colony .  At the end of the simulation students presented their findings and where they chose to settle. 

I look forward to our trip to the Palladium more than any other field trip we take.   The look of amazement that crosses a child's face when he/she enters this grand establishment is priceless.  Today's performance did not disappoint.  Not only did the conductor do an excellent job of involving our students in the performance, but his enthusiasm for music inspired many members of our class. Next semester your child will have a chance to visit one of the instrument try-ons at the middle school.  I encourage students to attend even if they are remotely interested.  How fortunate we are to have such high-quality performing arts programs in our city.  For more information on upcoming family friendly events please visit  http://www.carmelsymphony.org/ Mrs. L