November News 2008

Welcome to the month of giving thanks for all we have.  I would like to begin by giving thanks to the community that surrounds our students and school.  This community is full of supportive individuals and families, who give to the school both financially and with their time and energies.

At the end of October, the PTO held their annual Halloween party for island children and families.  This event is organized and staffed by caring adults, who give of their time so others might have a fun and safe evening.  Thank you to all the business who donated supplies, to the fire and police department who gave out glow sticks and to everyone who helped with the party.   

November brought our annual book fair to the school; again volunteers gave endless hours helping to run the event.  Students come with money in hand, eager eyes and a desire to purchase a book to read.  The adults there support the love of reading and set an example to us all.

We held a monkey election on the 4^th, giving students the chance to vote, and hopefully establishing a commitment in each of them to continue voting throughout their lives.  Thankfully we live in a country that allows its citizens so many freedoms, among them the freedom to vote. 

The 5^th grade worked on a musical production and gave 2 wonderful performances.  Last year these students worked with the Vineyard Playhouse, staffed by adults who care about children.  This year more adults are continuing to give students a variety of experiences, education beyond the classroom that ties history together with the stage.  Thanks to our island community, we might be watching a future actor, stage director, set designer or play write. 

The 8^th grade students have been working with the sheriffs department through our health and physical education programs.  Team building is the theme and the weeks of work will take them to the ropes course to test their knowledge and ability to come together and reach a goal.  Individuals sharing their talents so the whole class functions as a unit. 

And as always, the Edgartown School staff arrives each day, ready to inspire the students with a desire to learn, grow and spread their wings.  The building we use is a gift from the community, a sign of their belief in educating the future generations.  The staff is also a gift, committed to their job and the belief that each child is special; each child has their own gifts to give and our job is to give them knowledge which will allow them to make the most of their lives.  I am thankful for each individual who works in the school and gives of their time and energy far beyond the hours they are in the school.

Wishing everyone a great Thanksgiving and a moment to reflect on all we have to be thankful for.

I can be reached by email at afligor@mvyps.org or at the school 508-627-3316.