First Grade

Starting first grade was a big deal for Jaden and Cody this fall. It's the year that they go to the "big school," or the main school building, on our campus. Their kindergarten classrooms last year were still in the early childhood building, so the transition felt like a big (but exciting) change. The week before school started, we attended the school's orientation night which included a classroom visit. Jaden and Cody were quite eager to see their classroom lockers! The lockers are storage spaces for the kids' backpacks, lunches, and jackets.

It was also fun to see where their desks were and who they'd be sitting by!

When Day 1 finally arrived at the end of August, both boys seemed only slightly nervous to start school. They were particularly excited about their new backpacks.

The other big change about this school year was that we decided to put the boys in different classes for the first time. We had been pondering this change, and the boys' kindergarten teacher recommended it too, mostly as a way to boost each boy's individual confidence and to (at least partially) lessen their comparing, competitive spirits with each other. Both boys seemed very open to the change as well. Cody's teacher, Mrs. Griedl, is a sweet, energetic, and positive lady. Cody was super excited about his year with her!

Jaden had an interesting start to his school year because his teacher, Mrs. Schaekel, missed the entire first week due to a family funeral. Jaden said his substitute was "really nice," but he was particularly pleased about having his real teacher back for week two! We love Mrs. Schaekel's loving heart and spunky spirit. 

Adley, Mommy, and Daddy were all able to attend the opening chapel along with Jaden and Cody on the first day of school. We didn't sit with the boys, but we were able to give them hugs after the service and wish them well. Adley enjoyed clapping along to the praise songs during chapel.

Cody and Jaden's first homework assignment was assembling an "All About Me" bag to share with their class on the first week of school. They were supposed to put the following items in their bags: a baby picture of themselves, a family picture, something they are good at, a favorite hobby/pasttime, something that is important to them, and a favorite food.

Cody drew a "Salem cross" on the front of his bag and filled his bag with one of his handwritten stories, a book from his favorite series, a copy of his favorite piano song, Lego Ninjago characters, a cross, a mini football helmet, and a bag of Cheetos.

Jaden put into his bag a Dragon Masters chapter book, an Eagles football helmet, a marble, a cross, one of his handwritten stories, and a peppermint.

It was fun to see what each boy picked for his bag. We are thankful that the boys' transition to 1st grade was a smooth one, and we are excited for the year ahead!