Grade 1 - Woodbine School

Grade 1

Friday April 10th , 2026

Some highlights from this week:

We have been having so much fun learning about soft c! We discovered that the letter c can make two different sounds. Sometimes it makes the hard /k/ sound like in cat, and sometimes it makes the soft /s/ sound like in cent and circle. We were especially excited to learn that the word bicycle has both sounds—the /s/ sound and the /k/ sound! We’ve been practicing listening for the sound, sorting words, and reading new words with confidence. It has been exciting to see students noticing these patterns in their reading and writing!

Looking forward:

Swimming Field Trip forms went home on Thursday, April 2nd. Please complete and return as soon as you are able to. The $41.71 fee for swimming is available for payment and should be settled through your MyCBE prior to the start of the swim program.

We do require volunteers for this field trip. If you are able to volunteer please click here! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E48ABAB2FA6F9C34-62512217-swimming

Opera Costume Reminder: Your child will need a light grey shirt for their performance in the opera later this month. If your child is a Bo, their costume will be provided by the school.

A quick reminder to please continue sending recycling materials to your child’s classroom. We greatly appreciate your support!

April 13 - 17 - Mrs. Anderson’s class Stampede School (Open Minds)

April 13 - 17 - Ms. Connolly’s class 2School (Open Minds)

April 20 - Swim forms due!

April 24 - PD Day: No school for students

Apr 29 & Apr 30 – Opera Performance (Cast A April 29 10:00am and 6:00pm and Cast B April 30 2:00pm and 6:00pm)

The Grade One Teachers

Mrs. Anderson klanderson@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Connolly msconnolly@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Cook ajcook@cbe.ab.ca

Friday April 3rd , 2026

Some highlights from this week:

We had a very exciting visit from a dental hygenist this week! Our classes learned all about how to keep our teeth healthy and strong. We talked about the importance of brushing and flossing twice a day, choosing healthy foods, and visiting the dentist regularly.

In Science, we have started our new unit on Energy! We are exploring how objects and animals move in different ways by learning about pathways, speed, and movement.

We're officially on "Pip Watch"! Jackie and Shadow's eggs will likely hatch this weekend. If you have time, you could check the live eagle cameras to see what's happening.

Looking forward:

Attention, parents! Your paper towel rolls have a higher calling! Instead of tossing them, send them our way as we gear up for our next science adventure—Energy! Who knew empty paper towel rolls could be so powerful? Feel free to start sending them in whenever you have them. Your recycling bin will thank you!

We are looking for the following supplies:

Paper towel rolls
Cereal boxes
Poor quality painters tape / masking tape
Materials for a “track and support structure” such as paper, newspaper, construction paper, cardboard (cereal boxes, tissues boxes, etc), and paper plates.

Swimming Field Trip forms went home on Thursday, April 2nd. Please complete and return as soon as you are able to. The $41.71 fee for swimming is available for payment and should be settled through your MyCBE prior to the start of the swim program.

Opera Costume Reminder: Your child will need a light grey shirt for their performance in the opera later this month. If your child is a Bo, their costume will be provided by parent council.

April 3 – Good Friday (No School)

April 7 - Open Minds Field trip forms are due for Mrs. Anderson and Ms. Connolly (Reminder: Ms. Cook’s class will be attending Open Minds in June)

April 13 - 17 - Mrs. Anderson’s class Stampede School (Open Minds)

April 13 - 17 - Ms. Connolly’s class 2School (Open Minds)

April 20 Swimming forms due

Apr 29 – Apr 30 – Opera Performance (Cast A April 29 10:00am and 6:00pm and Cast B April 30 2:00pm and 6:00pm)

The Grade One Teachers

Mrs. Anderson klanderson@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Connolly msconnolly@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Cook ajcook@cbe.ab.ca

Friday March 20th, 2026

Have a wonderful and safe Spring Break. See you on Monday, March 30!

Opera Update: We are starting to get costumes organized and have each scene wearing a different coloured shirt. The grade 1s need to have a light grey shirt with no logos.

Wolves (Grade 1s) A light grey shirt

All Bo’s- white shirt (NO LONGER NEEDED. COSTUME PROVIDED BY PARENT COUNCIL)

All Welly’s- a light grey shirt

Please let us know ASAP if your child will be unavailable the evening of their opera performance.

The Grade One Teachers

Mrs. Anderson klanderson@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Connolly msconnolly@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Cook ajcook@cbe.ab.ca

Friday March 13th, 2026

Some highlights from this week:

Wow! Our 100th Day of School was an absolute blast! The excitement was off the charts as we celebrated this big milestone with fun activities, writing projects, and lots of smiles. We even turned ourselves into 100 year olds using an aging app. It’s amazing to see how much our little learners have grown in 100 days—here’s to many more days of discovery and fun!

Looking forward:

We are looking for the following supplies:

Paper towel rolls
Cereal boxes
Poor quality painters tape / masking tape
Materials for a “track and support structure” such as paper, newspaper, construction paper, cardboard (cereal boxes, tissues boxes, etc), and paper plates.

Next week’s Show and Tell: Describe how you got your name. (For example, does it mean anything, are you named for someone special, do you have a nickname?)

This will be our last show and tell

Mar 19 – Student Led Conferences 5pm-8pm (please bring your child with you)

Mar 20 – Student Led Conferences 8am-12pm (please bring your child with you)

Mar 19-20 – Cultural Fair

Mar 19 – Used Book Fair in library

March 23 - 27 Spring Break!

Mar 30 – First Day Back from Spring Break

Apr 3 – Good Friday (No School)

Apr 29 – Apr 30 – Opera Performance (Cast A April 29 10:00am and 6:00pm and Cast B April 30 2:00pm and 6:00pm) - more information regarding which cast your child is in will be coming home soon

From The Office:

Spirit Week:

Monday 16: Anything But a Backpack

Tuesday 17: Wear All Green
Wednesday 18: Uniform –Wear any uniform

Thursday 19: PJ Day

Opera: NOTE THE TIME CHANGE BELOW!!

CAST A:

April 29: Morning performance: 10:00am in Woodbine’s gymnasium

PM performance: 6:00pm

CAST B:

April 30: Afternoon performance: 2:00pm

Evening performance: 6:00pm

Student Led Conferences, Used Book Sale, and Cultural Fair

Please come with your child to view their learning in their classroom on:

Thursday March 19 - 5-8pm OR

Friday March 20 - 8-noon

Lost and Found

Our Lunchroom Staff have reviewed the Lost and Found area and returned all labeled items to their respective owners. We kindly ask that you take a look at our Lost and Found area to check for any missing belongings before the upcoming deadline.

Donation Date: Any items remaining at the end of the day on March 20 will be donated.

The Grade One Teachers

Mrs. Anderson klanderson@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Connolly msconnolly@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Cook ajcook@cbe.ab.ca

Friday March 6th, 2026

Some highlights from this week:

This week in Social Studies, we talked about helpers and leaders in our communities. We discussed the many people who help make our communities safe, organized, and supportive—such as teachers, firefighters, police officers, and community volunteers. Students shared their ideas about what makes someone a good leader and how leaders help others. It was wonderful to hear the thoughtful connections students made about ways they can also be helpers and leaders in our classroom and community.

This week in literacy, we began learning about Magic E! Students discovered how adding a silent e to the end of a word can completely change the vowel sound. Magic E works it’s “magic” by making the vowel say its name. We practiced changing words such as kit → kite and cut → cute and noticed how one small letter can make a big difference in how a word sounds and looks. The class had lots of fun experimenting with new word pairs and seeing Magic E in action as we continue building our reading and spelling skills.

This week we had a very exciting visitor! Sara, the director from Calgary Opera, joined us to work with students as we continue preparing for our upcoming opera residency. Students had the opportunity to practice their lines, learn more about performing, and experience what it’s like to work with a real opera director. As we work together in music and during rehearsals, we are continuing to focus on positive behaviour, including listening carefully, following directions, and showing respect for our performers and teachers. These expectations help make our rehearsals successful and enjoyable for everyone.

In writing, students have been working on self-biographies! We have been thinking about who we are and what makes us unique. After drafting our writing, students had the opportunity to edit and improve their work, adding details and making their writing clearer. To go along with their biographies, students are working on creating self-portraits, carefully drawing and colouring pictures of themselves. It has been so fun to see students reflect on who they are and proudly share their writing and artwork together.

In math, we have been enjoying working on addition and subtraction! Students have been practicing how numbers can be put together and taken apart to help us solve different problems. Through hands-on activities, discussions, and practice, students are building confidence in using strategies to figure out answers. It has been wonderful to see students sharing their thinking and celebrating their growing math skills.

Looking forward:

Tuesday, March 10th we’ll be doing a walking field trip to the ridge overlooking Fish Creek Park. Our objective is to look for and journal about natural and constructed landmarks in our community. Please ensure your child is dressed appropriately for the weather. (Snowpants, for sitting on the ground are essential as well as hats and mittens.) Students will be supervised by the grade one teachers: Mrs. Anderson, Ms. Connolly and Ms. Cook. Expectations about behaviour and safety will be reviewed in advance.

100 Day - The 100th day of school is almost here, and we’re ready to celebrate in style! On this special day, we’ll be dressing up as 100-year-olds—think glasses, canes, cardigans, and grey hair! It’s a fun way to mark how much we’ve learned and grown over the past 100 days. We’ll also be doing activities all about the number 100. Get ready for a day full of laughter, learning, and lots of "old-age" wisdom! 100 day will be on March 12th.

Next week’s Show and Tell: Bring a flag from another country. Tell about the flag and the country.

March 12 - 100 Day of School

Mar 19 – Student Led Conferences 5pm-8pm

Mar 19-20 – Cultural Fair

Mar 19 – Used Book Fair in library

Mar 20 – Student Led Conferences 8am-12pm

Spring Break!

Mar 30 – First Day Back from Spring Break

Apr 3 – Good Friday (No School)

Apr 29 – Apr 30 – Opera Performance (Cast A April 29 2:00pm and 6:00pm and Cast B April 30 2:00pm and 6:00pm) - more information regarding which cast your child is in will be coming home soon

From The Office:

Student Lead Conferences

Student Led Conferences are a great time for you to come into the classroom and view your child’s learning and progress. For Grade 1 – 6, you do not need to book in a time, just show up with your child and expect to spend 15-30 minutes in their classroom.

Conferences are on Thursday, March 19^th, 5 PM to 8 PM and Friday March 20^th, 8 AM to 12 PM.

Opera:

Our school opera with the Let’s Create an Opera program is really starting to come to life! Earlier in the project, students worked with a librettist to create the story and a composer to write the music. Since then, our music classes have been busy learning and practicing the songs together.

This week we welcomed our stage director, Sara Staples, a Calgary-based opera performer and voice teacher who has performed across North America and enjoys working with young performers. With her guidance, students are now bringing the story to life through staging, movement, and expression—and the excitement has been incredible to see.

Because we will be presenting four performances (two daytime shows for students and two evening shows so families can attend), we have created two casts. Sara has been working with the different casts this week and will continue rehearsals as the production takes shape. It has been wonderful to see the opera suddenly feel like a real performance!

Cast A: Wednesday April 29, 2026
Cast B: Thursday April 30, 2026

Afternoon performances: 2:00pm
Evening performances: 6:00 pm

Used Book Collection & Sale

Do you have a “a-lot” of books at home? Our amazing parent volunteers from School Council are collecting gently used books (story books, fact books, graphic novels, and board books) for our upcoming used book sale. Please send any used book donations to the school between March 9–18. There are boxes setup in front of the office for any donations!

Then, during Parent–Teacher Conferences on March 19, families are invited to visit the library and fill a bag of books for $20. Please note that the sale is cash only, so remember to bring real money!

Cultural Fair:

We are excited to invite you to our second annual Cultural Night on the evening of March 19th, taking place during Parent-Teacher Conferences.

This special event celebrates the rich diversity of our Woodbine community and provides families with the opportunity to share their heritage through food, traditional attire, performances, art, music, and cultural displays. It is always a meaningful evening of connection, learning, and celebration for our students and families.

We are currently looking for families who would like to host a cultural booth representing a country or region that is meaningful to them. If you are interested in participating, please email Ms. Rosenbaum by Friday, March 13, 2026.

We look forward to coming together to celebrate the vibrant cultures that make our school community so special.

The Grade One Teachers

Mrs. Anderson klanderson@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Connolly msconnolly@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Cook ajcook@cbe.ab.ca

Friday February 27th, 2026

Some highlights from this week:

Report Cards came home this week! You can find them on your MyCBE account.

Addition and subtraction is our current focus in math. Students are learning to solve problems using different strategies such as with objects, ten frames, and numberlines.

We’re practicing for our opera in Music class. Ask your child about their role.

Looking forward:

The 100th day of school is almost here, and we’re ready to celebrate in style! On this special day, we’ll be dressing up as 100-year-olds—think glasses, canes, cardigans, and grey hair! It’s a fun way to mark how much we’ve learned and grown over the past 100 days. We’ll also be doing activities all about the number 100. Get ready for a day full of laughter, learning, and lots of "old-age" wisdom! 100 day will be on March 12th.

Next week’s Show and Tell: Bring your favourite rock and gem

Mar 5 – Spring Photos

March 12 - 100 Day of School

Mar 19 – Student Led Conferences 5pm-8pm

Mar 19-20 – Cultural Fair (more Information to come)

Mar 19 – Used Book Fair in library (more information to come)

Mar 20 – Student Led Conferences 8am-12pm

Spring Break!

Mar 30 – First Day Back from Spring Break

From The Office:

Student Led Conferences:

Conferences are on Thursday, March 19^th, 5 PM to 8 PM and Friday March 20^th, 8 AM to 12 PM.

If your child is in Kindergarten, Ms. Harper will be e-mailing a link to sign up for conferences on either Thursday or Friday. This is to ensure physical space for all families to be able to explore their child’s learning in the classroom.

Reminder that this is not the time to discuss concerns about your child with the teacher but an opportunity to celebrate your child’s learning.

Cultural Fair

We are excited to invite you to our second annual Cultural Night on the evening of March 19th, taking place during Student-Led Conferences.

We are currently looking for families who would like to host a cultural booth representing a country or region that is meaningful to them. If you are interested in participating, see the email that was sent from Ms. Rosenbaum that had an attached letter for details and return the form (or email your information) to Ms. Rosenbaum by Friday, March 6, 2026.

We look forward to coming together to celebrate the vibrant cultures that make our school community so special.

The Grade One Teachers

Mrs. Anderson klanderson@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Connolly msconnolly@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Cook ajcook@cbe.ab.ca

Friday, February 20th, 2026

Looking forward:

February 15th is Pink Shirt Day! This special day reminds us about the importance of kindness, inclusion, and standing up for one another. We will be having meaningful conversations about how our words and actions can make others feel, and how we can choose kindness each and every day. Even small acts of kindness can make a big difference! We invite all students to wear pink on February 25th as a symbol of support and our commitment to creating a caring and inclusive classroom community.

Next week’s Show and Tell: A picture or a drawing of a place you would like to visit.

February 24 - Report Cards and IPPs available for viewing

February 25 - Pink Shirt Day

February 27 - No school for students - Non Instructional Day

March 5 - Spring Photos

March 12 - 100 Day in School

March 19 - Student Led Conferences 5pm-8pm

March 20 - Student Led Conferences 8am-12pm

SPRING BREAK

March 30 - First Day Back from Spring Break

The Grade One Teachers

Mrs. Anderson klanderson@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Connolly msconnolly@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Cook ajcook@cbe.ab.ca

Friday February 6th, 2026

Looking forward:

Next week’s Show and Tell: Something Red

Students that share Thursday are invited to share on another day this week as we do not have school Thursday or Friday.

February 12 & 13 - Teachers Convention (no school for students)

February 16 - Family Day (no school for students)

February 19 - School Dance 6-8 pm

February 24 - Report Cards and IPPs available for viewing

February 25 - Pink Shirt Day

February 27 - No school for students

From the Office:

Yearbook Cover Contest

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We are excited to invite students to participate in our Yearbook Cover Design Contest!

If your child is interested in entering the contest, they are encouraged to create an original design for the front cover of this year’s school yearbook. All submissions are due by Monday, March 2nd.

Yearbook Cover Criteria:
Each design must include:

· The yearbook title & school name

· The school year

· Representation of all our Den Group themes:

o Red Fox

o Yellow Eagle

o White Deer

o Black Bear

Submission Details:

· Artwork should be original and student-created

· All submissions must be handed in to the school office

· Please ensure the student’s name, grade, and homeroom are clearly written on the back of the submission

We look forward to seeing our students’ creativity and how they represent our Den community. Thank you for your continued support!

Call for Parent Volunteers!

As our school-wide, year-long Let’s Create an Opera residency gains momentum, we are inviting parents to join a volunteer committee. We are looking for a small group of parents who may be interested in helping with costume preparation and other support as needs arise throughout the project. Your involvement would help make this exciting experience a success for our students. Please email Ms. Rose at csrosenbaum@cbe.ab.ca if you are interested

The Grade One Teachers

Mrs. Anderson klanderson@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Connolly msconnolly@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Cook ajcook@cbe.ab.ca

Monday, February 2, 2026

Happy Groundhog Day! Unfortunately with our sunny morning today, Balzac Billy did see his shadow which means we'll be having six more weeks of winter.

Show and Tell: Bring a picture of someone you love. (Students can bring a photograph, drawing or you can send your student's teacher an email with the photo.)

Yearbook Cover Contest

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We are excited to invite students to participate in our Yearbook Cover Design Contest!

Yearbook Cover Criteria: Each design must include:

· The yearbook title & school name

· The school year

· Representation of all our Den Group themes:

o Red Fox

o Yellow Eagle

o White Deer

o Black Bear

Submission Details:

· Artwork should be original and student-created

· All submissions must be handed in to the school office

· Please ensure the student’s name, grade, and homeroom are clearly written on the back of the submission

We look forward to seeing our students’ creativity and how they represent our Den community. Thank you for your continued support!

Call for Parent Volunteers!

As our school-wide, year-long Let’s Create an Opera residency gains momentum, we are inviting parents to join a volunteer committee. We are looking for a small group of parents who may be interested in helping with costume preparation and other support as needs arise throughout the project. Your involvement would help make this exciting experience a success for our students. Please email Ms. Rose at csrosenbaum@cbe.ab.ca if you are interested

Friday January 23, 2026

Some highlights from this week:

Math → We began looking at the meanings of addition and subtraction. In this unit, students will be learning about different tools and strategies for adding and subtracting. Grade one students learn to add and subtract to and from 20.
UFLI → This week in UFLI, our students worked on the FLSZ rule and words ending in -ck. Ask your child how they know when we double words that end in f, l, s, and z. We will be regrouping and starting our new intervention groups next week.
Writing → Students continued working on their writing. They are focusing on using sentence starters and encoding (spelling words) unfamiliar words in their writing.
Art → In art this week, classes read Snowmen at Night and then created snowman art that focused on perspective.

Looking forward:

Next week’s Show and Tell: A Stuffy or Blanket that Brings You Comfort

Jan 30: No school for students
Feb 12 -13: No school for students- Teacher’s Convention
Feb 24: Report Cards and IPPs available for viewing
Feb 27: No school for students

From the Office:

A friendly reminder that Alien In-Line forms are due back on Monday, January 26th.

The Grade One Teachers

Mrs. Anderson klanderson@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Connolly msconnolly@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Cook ajcook@cbe.ab.ca

Friday January 16, 2026

Some highlights from this week:

Math → Made number paths to 20 to use with our upcoming units focusing on addition and subtraction.
Science → Explored different objects around our classrooms and ways we can use our senses to describe them.
Writing → Show what you know writing about Woodbine School
Reading → Classes worked through a short-vowel review and added two new decodable passages to their reading folders to practice in class.
PE → Worked on their basketball dribbling skills through games like pirate’s treasure and red light green light.

Looking forward:

Next week’s Show and Tell: Two objects which are opposite (big, small, wide, narrow)

Jan 30 - System Professional Learning - No school for students
Feb 12 -13: No school for students- Teacher’s Convention
Feb 24 - Report Cards and IPPs available for viewing
Feb 27 - Non Instructional Day - No school for students

Reminder - please do not bring toys from home.

From the Office:

Morning Entry Reminder

To ensure a smooth and safe start to the day, please remember that students should not enter the building via the Main Entrance before the morning entry bell. All students are directed to enter through their designated doors at bell time. Thank you for helping us maintain our morning routine!

Volunteer Call: Fun Lunch Program Needs Your Help!

Our Fun Lunch program is a favorite event for the students, but we are in urgent need of volunteers to help distribute the lunches.

We currently have very few volunteers, and unfortunately, we are at the point where we may have to cancel upcoming Fun Lunches if we don't receive additional support.

If you are available to spare some time on an upcoming Fun Lunch day, your help would be immensely appreciated in keeping this popular program running! Please sign up via your Healthy Hunger account.

The Grade One Teachers

Mrs. Anderson klanderson@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Connolly msconnolly@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Cook ajcook@cbe.ab.ca

Friday January 9th, 2025

Happy New Year! Welcome back!

Some highlights from this week:

In Physical Education, we have started learning about invasive games. Students have been building skills through games like Pirate Treasure and Safe Zone, where they practiced moving safely in shared spaces, working as a team, and understanding simple game strategies. These games help develop spatial awareness, cooperation, and fair play. We will soon be moving into floor hockey, where students will continue to build these skills while learning how to use equipment safely and respectfully.
We recently wrapped up our learning about Earth systems, where students explored land, water, air, and how living things are all connected. We are now beginning a new science unit Matter! Students will be investigating different materials, learning how to describe their properties using our senses, and discovering how objects can change.
This week, students began learning about number lines in math. We explored how numbers are placed in order, how they increase as we move to the right, how we can use benchmark numbers and how number lines can help us count.
Ms. Connolly and Ms. Cook’s classes met their grade 3 buddies. They introduced themselves and read passages from their UFLI duotangs.

Looking forward:

Next week’s Show and Tell: Tell about your favourite animal – come to school with three interesting facts to share.

January 14: Opa fun lunch

The Grade One Teachers

Mrs. Anderson klanderson@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Connolly msconnolly@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Cook ajcook@cbe.ab.ca

Friday, December 19, 2025

New Show and Tell schedules have been sent out.

School resumes Monday, January 5th.

Happy Holidays to you and your family!

The Grade One Team

Friday, December 12th, 2025

Some highlights from this week:

This week, we explored story elements of the story The Wizard of Oz! We learned about the characters, setting, problem, and solution, and talked about how each part helps tell the story. Students loved identifying Dorothy and her friends, describing where the story takes place, and discussing the problem Dorothy and the other characters face and how they are solved. This helped us better understand how stories are organized and how all the parts work together to make a complete, meaningful and interesting story.

In Science, we continued our learning about Earth Systems by identifying the four seasons using pictures and visual clues. Students looked closely at changes in weather, plants, animals, and human activities to help determine the season. We also talked about ways we can take care of the Earth, such as respecting nature, reducing waste, and being mindful of how our actions affect the environment. This helped students build awareness of their role in caring for our planet.

In Math, students began their look at 3D shapes. Our work will continue next week with sorting real-life objects into their 3D shape groups and looking at the different attributes of 3D shapes.

Looking forward:

Next week’s Show and Tell: Free choice (must fit in their backpack and not be valuable)

Dec 15 – Spirit Day - Twin Day (If your child didn't arrange to dress the same as a twin, they can wear blue pants and a red shirt to twin with other grade one students).

Dec 16 – Grade 1 and 2 – Wizard of Oz Field Trip

Dec 17 – Spirit Day - Crazy Crocs and Socks

Dec 17 – Fun Lunch – Maverick’s Donuts (Sign up using Healthy Hunger website)

Dec 17 – School Council Meeting

Dec 19 – Last day of classes

Dec 19 – Spirit Day - PJ Day

Jan 5 – Classes resume

The Grade One Teachers

Mrs. Anderson klanderson@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Connolly msconnolly@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Cook ajcook@cbe.ab.ca

Friday December 5th, 2025

Some highlights from this week:

This week in Math, we continued exploring 2D shapes and took a closer look at symmetry. Students learned that a shape is symmetrical when it can be folded into two matching sides. We had lots of fun testing different shapes, making “fold lines,” and discovering which ones had more than one line of symmetry. To put our learning into action, students created their own symmetrical monsters, carefully designing matching features on each side.

In Science, we explored how different animals get ready for winter by learning about hibernation and migration. Students were excited to discover the many ways animals survive the cold—from long winter naps, to travelling great distances, to growing thicker fur or changing their behaviour. We loved sorting various animals into the category that best matched what they do in winter.

Wizard of Oz field trip forms - please return. Thank you so much to those parents who have contacted teachers about volunteering. We now have enough volunteers for this field trip.

On Friday, students worked with their den groups to build community and make holiday cards for veterans.

Looking forward:

Next week’s Show and Tell: Your favourite book

Dec 9 - Photo Retake Day (Please let your child’s teacher know if you would like a photo retake)

Dec 16 – Grade 1 and 2 – Wizard of Oz Field Trip

Dec 17 – Fun Lunch – Maverick’s Donuts (Sign up using Healthy Hunger website)

Dec 17 – School Council Meeting

Dec 19 – Last day of classes

Jan 5 – Classes resume

From the Office

Food Drive

As part of Woodbine’s Wellness Curriculum to be kind to others, we are having a Reverse Advent Calendar Food Drive. Instead of getting a gift each day like a typical advent calendar we are giving a gift of food each day to support the Calgary Food Bank. Please click HERE for suggested donation items. You are welcome to donate any non-perishable items, however please no glass jars.

We will be competing in Den Groups to see which Den is able to bring the most items. The winning Den will win a popcorn movie afternoon in the new year.

Thank you for your support in teaching the importance of giving and helping others.

Sledding at Woodbine School

Woodbine School has a great hill for sliding and sledding. We permit safe sliding, feet first during recess and lunch recess. However sledding is not permitted at any time when staff are on supervision (morning entry, recess, lunch). All students are aware of this rule. The school and classrooms do not have space to store sleds for after school activities.

Lost & Found

Last day to check out items in our Lost & Found area will be December 18. Items left over at the end of the day will be donated. Items labelled with student names will be returned to their owners.

The Grade One Teachers

Mrs. Anderson klanderson@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Connolly msconnolly@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Cook ajcook@cbe.ab.ca

Friday November 21st, 2025

We had a busy week this week!

Some highlights from this week:

In math, students wrapped up their patterning unit and translated their knowledge into a winter scene art. Ask your student about the different techniques they used!

This week, we started our Literacy Intervention Groups. Students were split into four groups for targeted literacy support. Home reading will be starting on Thursday. Please check your student’s backpack for their folder with a home reading letter for parents and the first book and activity.

We wrapped up our Social Studies unit focused on Citizenship. We are looking forward to moving onto our unit Earth Science in Science.

Parent / Teacher Conferences – November 27 & 28:

This conference is an opportunity for parents/guardians and teachers to discuss your child's current learning. Parents can book appointments with teachers via your MyCBE account. 

Access to book appointments with teachers will be available from 06:00 am on Wednesday, November 19 and close for booking at 11:59 pm on Wednesday, November 26. Conferences will be held in-person, in your child's classroom. For information on how to book a conference please refer to the Woodbine Weekly.

Looking forward:

Next week’s Show and Tell: Something with stripes

Nov 24-25: Let’s Create an Opera – joining Music Classes

Nov 27:Gr 1-6 – Parent/Teacher Conferences – 5:00-8:00 pm
Nov 28: No School for all students - Parent/Teacher Conferences – 8-noon

Dec 9: Photo Retake Day

Dec. 16: Wizard of Oz field trip. Please contact your child’s teacher about volunteering.

The Grade One Teachers

Mrs. Anderson klanderson@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Connolly msconnolly@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Cook ajcook@cbe.ab.ca

Friday November 14th, 2025

Welcome back from Fall Break!

It was so wonderful to reconnect with students this week. We picked up right where we left off and jumped back into learning together with excitement. It truly felt great to be back in our classroom!

Some highlights from this week:

This week, we continued our work with patterns. Students explored a variety of repeating patterns and learned to identify the core—the part of the pattern that repeats. We had lots of fun building, sorting, and describing patterns together!

In the gym, we have been working on both underhand and overhand throwing. Students practiced their technique, aimed at different targets, and had a lot of fun building their throwing skills!

Today we worked on an art project that explored different kinds of lines such as wavy, curved, and straight—as well as patterns. Students used these elements to design and build their own 3D creations, filling them with fun repeating designs. It was such a creative and exciting afternoon! Ask your child about the process!

Looking forward:

Next week’s Show and Tell: Bring or wear your favourite shirt

Nov 17-18: Let’s Create an Opera –Composer Zenon joining Music Classes
Nov 19: Healthy Hunger Fun Lunch – A&W
Nov 20: School Council AGM and Parent Association Meeting – 6 pm

Nov 21: IPP’s going home (if your child has one)
Nov 24-25: Let’s Create an Opera – joining Music Classes

Nov 27:Gr 1-6 – Parent/Teacher Conferences – 5:00-8:00 pm
Nov 28: No School for all students - Parent/Teacher Conferences – 8-noon

The Grade One Teachers

Mrs. Anderson klanderson@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Connolly msconnolly@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Cook ajcook@cbe.ab.ca

Friday November 7th, 2025

IMPORTANT REMINDERS:

As winter weather approaches, please consider the following:

Please ensure your child is dressed for the weather. Students are outside twice a day until the temperature drops below - 20C.In the coming weeks we may be doing some journaling outside as we prepare for our Open Minds experience. Please ensure students are dressed appropriately for the weather daily.
To encourage independence, please encourage your child to put on their own winter gear. Students should independently dress themselves. The order we encourage is snowpants, boots, jacket (zipped up) and mittens or gloves last. Please see photo below:
Please label all winter gear. Mitts, hats, boots and scarves are very easy to misplace. In order to help your child’s gear make it home, please put their names on anything that they may take off during the day. We know nobody wants to buy 5 pairs of mittens this winter!

Our students love their weekly library visits! Please help your child remember to return their library books on their library day so they can check out two new stories to share and enjoy at home. Thank you for helping build a love of reading in our classroom community!

Anderson - Thursday’s

Connolly - Wednesday’s

Cook - Tuesday’s

Remember to please leave all toys at home so they do not get lost or damaged.

Some highlights from this week:

This week, students explored sorting by classifying objects based on various attributes such as colour, size, and shape. We have now begun our new unit on patterns. Students are learning that every pattern has a core, which is the part that repeats to create the pattern. Through hands-on activities, students will be identifying, describing, and extending patterns using shapes, colours, and movements.

In Social Studies, students are continuing to learn about communities and citizenship. We have been exploring what it means to be part of a community and the different groups that we are a part of. We are excited to take a look at some Canadian symbols next week!

In Science, students are learning about the scientific method. We conducted an experiment to find out: “Which candy dissolves the fastest?” Ask your child which candies we tested and about the winner(s).

On Friday, we joined a small Remembrance Day assembly to honour and remember those who have served our country. Students listened respectfully and took time to reflect on what peace and kindness mean to them.

Looking forward:

No show and tell the week of Nov. 10th!

Nov 10-12: Fall Break - No school for students

Nov 13: Classes resume

Nov 13: School Photos

Nov 19: Healthy Hunger Fun Lunch - A&W

Nov 27: Parent/Teacher Conferences - 5:00 - 8:00 pm

Nov 28: Parent/Teacher Conferences - 8:00 - noon

Dec 16: Wizard of Oz Field Trip (VOLUNTEERS NEEDED)

Calgary Campus Open Minds

This year, our grade one classes will each be participating in a week-long, daily field trip experience through Calgary Campus Open Minds. This unique program gives students the chance to learn in real-world settings and connect their classroom learning to the community around them.

Mrs. Anderson’s class will be going to Stampede School April 13 - 17th.

Ms. Connolly’s class will be going to 2School at the CBE Education Center April 13 - 17th.

Ms. Cook’s class will be going to Library School at the Central Library June 1 - 5th.

To make this opportunity possible, we rely on parent volunteers. We require a minimum of 3 volunteers each day per class, though ideally, we’d like 5 volunteers. If you have a valid volunteer clearance and are able to help, please email your child’s teacher.

Please note: All volunteers must have a valid CBE police clearance. This process can take a month or more, so if you are interested in volunteering, we encourage you to begin the application as soon as possible.

We’re looking forward to this amazing learning experience and hope you can join us!

The Grade One Teachers

Mrs. Anderson klanderson@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Connolly msconnolly@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Cook ajcook@cbe.ab.ca

Friday September 26th 2025

Some highlights from this week:

We have begun our printing program and we are working at printing our letters starting at the top. We discussed small, tall and fall letters and how to properly place them on the lines. We also learned about the letters and actions for /s/, /a/ /m/ and /t/. Here is our song to support letter formation https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BJnZePnDo-U

In Science, we have begun our first unit exploring Earth Systems. Each class chose a tree to observe throughout the four seasons. Please ask your child where their class tree is located. We are excited to watch our tree change throughout the year. We talked about how the seasons are a predictable and repeating cycle.

In Social Studies, we began exploring the idea of groups we belong to and what the word community means. Together, we discovered that communities can be found in many places—our classroom, our families, our neighbourhoods, and even in the activities we enjoy. As we shared our ideas, we noticed how these groups connect us to one another and help us feel like we belong. This learning ties beautifully into our year-long guiding question: “How are we all connected?”

This week, our class learned about the Canadian hero Terry Fox and his incredible Marathon of Hope. We talked about his courage, determination, and the way he continues to inspire us. To honour his legacy, we participated in a Terry Fox Run.

This week, we are so sad to say goodbye to our amazing Mrs. Facca. She has been such an amazing part of our Woodbine team, bringing kindness, care, and joy to our students each day. We will miss her dearly and wish her all the best in her next adventure. As we are so sad to say goodbye to Mrs. Facca, we are also so excited to welcome Ms. Cook to our Woodbine team! We know she will step into this role beautifully, bringing her own warmth and talents to our community. We are so grateful for the time we shared with Mrs. Facca and look forward to all the wonderful things ahead with Ms. Cook.

Looking forward:

Alien In-Line Forms - As this activity is fast approaching, please return as soon as possible.

Next week’s Show and Tell: Bring something from nature

Sept 29: No school - IPP Meetings (invite only)

Sept 30: National Day of Truth and Reconciliation - No school

Oct 1: Orange Shirt Day

Oct 2: School Council AGM

Oct 7: Photo Day

Oct 13: Thanksgiving Day - No school

Oct 14: Alien In Line Grades K-6 (Please return forms)

Oct 15: Healthy Hunger Fun Lunch- Taco Time (Sign up through healthyhunger.ca)

Oct 24: School Council’s Halloween Dance

Calgary Campus Open Minds

Mrs. Anderson’s class will be going to Stampede School April 13 - 17th.

Ms. Connolly’s class will be going to 2School at the CBE Education Center April 13 - 17th.

Ms. Cook’s class will be going to Library School at the Central Library June 1 - 5th.

To make this opportunity possible, we rely on parent volunteers. We require a minimum of 3 volunteers each day per class, though ideally, we’d like 5 volunteers. Families will be able to sign up for volunteer spots during our Open House on October 25th when you visit our classrooms.

We’re looking forward to this amazing learning experience and hope you can join us!

The Grade One Teachers

Mrs. Anderson klanderson@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Connolly msconnolly@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Cook ajcook@cbe.ab.ca

Friday, September 19, 2025

Some highlights from this week:

On Tuesday we had a visit from Calgary Opera. We learned about what opera is and even created a mini-opera with our students. We’re looking forward to working with them this year.

Library days

Mrs. Facca- Tuesday- Students are allowed to take out two books each week. One book stays at their desk and the other may go home. I have put the books into a bag to keep the books in good condition; please return the books in this bag- DO NOT THROW IT OUT!!! I will be giving the students larger bags in the next week or so. Students can have their book at home for the week but it will have to be returned no later than Tuesday to be able to take out another book.

Ms. Connolly- Wednesday- Students are allowed to sign out two books each week. Both books can go home. I will be providing a large ziploc bag for the books to travel back and forth in.

Mrs. Anderson- Thursday- Students are allowed to sign out two books each week. Both books can go home. I will be providing a large ziploc bag for the books to travel back and forth in.

Calgary Campus Open Minds

Mrs. Anderson’s class will be going to Stampede School April 13 - 17th.

Ms. Connolly’s class will be going to 2School at the CBE Education Center April 13 - 17th.

Mrs. Facca’s class will be going to Library School at the Central Library June 1 - 5th.

We’re looking forward to this amazing learning experience and hope you can join us!

Alien In-Line Forms - Please return as soon as possible.

Show and Tell

-Begins on Monday, September 22nd. Information was sent home this week. This week’s topic is to share a picture of your family. We would like to keep these at school for the duration of the school year. You can either send in a photo or email a photo to your child’s teacher and we’ll print it at school.

Looking forward:

Sept 22: First day of running club, return forms

Sept 25: Terry Fox Run

Sept 25: Parent and Teacher Welcome Night 5-7pm

Sept 30: National Day of Truth and Reconciliation- No school

Oct 1: Orange Shirt Day

Oct 7: Photo Day

Oct 15: Healthy Hunger Fun Lunch- Taco Time (Sign up through healthyhunger.ca)

The Grade One Teachers

Mrs. Anderson klanderson@cbe.ab.ca

Ms. Connolly msconnolly@cbe.ab.ca

Mrs. Facca syfacca@cbe.ab.ca

Friday, September 12, 2025

Some highlights from this week:

What a great start we have had! We are learning routines and getting to know each other through lots of fun activities and conversations. We would like to extend our most sincere appreciation to you for sending your children back to school, prepared and ready for all that we have asked of them.

Here are some reminders of items we would love for you to send to school. (Many of you have done some of these things already. Thank you!)

1. Please clearly label everything you send to school. (backpack, lunch kit, snack container, shoes, water bottle, etc..) It is surprising how many water bottles look alike!

2. Paperwork from the school office came home with your child last week for you to review. Some documents need to be returned to the school.

3. Slip on shoes (Velcro, elastic laces, etc) are fantastic for both indoor and outdoor shoes. If your child is working on shoe tying, please make sure they are very confident in their own tying skills, before sending lace up shoes. We tied up a lot of shoes this week!

4. Send snacks in their own container that can be kept separate from the lunch kit. This makes it much easier for small hands to find and access what they need during busy transitions in our coatroom areas. It also prevents lunches from being eaten by 10:30.

5. On Fridays, dismissal time is 1:05 pm. Please send an extra snack on Fridays. We will be hungry!

6. Please make sure your child is dressed for the weather as we are spending as much time playing and learning outside as possible. If it is a bit rainy and windy, we would still like to go outside and we want everyone to be feeling warm and comfortable.

7. This year we will be using the blog to communicate with families. You can access our blog through the school website. Please check there for classroom updates and communication weekly.

8. We will be beginning our speaking and listening program (show and tell) the week of September 19th. Each child will have the opportunity to bring a specific item based on the weekly topic. More information will be forthcoming.

Grade 1 Teachers

Mrs. Anderson

Ms. Connolly

Mrs. Facca

Last Modified: 2026-04-10 22:55:51.54733 +0000 UTC