Winter Traditions

Every family has special traditions and many of them happen this time of year.  For some, it may be enjoying a special movie snow falls or serving meals at a shelter.  For others, it could be a trip to the mountains or giving and receiving gifts for Christmas or Hanukkah. 

Think about a few of your family traditions, especially those that happen this time of year. Describe the tradition and what you enjoy most about it.

Please remember to check your spelling and punctuation before submitting your comment.

Target and Ellen Deserving Schools Grants

Fifty of the most incredible and deserving schools in the nation will be receiving $100,000 in the Target and Ellen DeGerenes Deserving Schools Contest.  Write a 2500 word essay on why the school is incredible and what you would do with Target's help and assistance.
 If you think our school should receive a grant, check out Ellen's site.  You can have your family or friends help you write an essay and enter our school to win.  (As always, you will need your parent's permission to enter.)

Should Students Be Required to Learn a Foreign Language?

Should students have to learn a foreign language?

Many cash-strapped schools across the United States are cutting out foreign language classes. Some people say students should spend more time mastering reading and writing in English, instead of other languages. Others argue that knowing a language other than English is now more important than ever. They say that having foreign-language skills may give kids an advantage when they look for jobs in the future.  What do you think?

Volunteer

"Many schools in the U.S. require students to take part in community-service programs, especially close to the holidays.  Some people say volunteering is good for kids because it teaches them the value of helping in their community.  Others say volunteering, by definition, is a choice and shouldn't be forced on kids.  What do you think?"

From Scholastic News, Vol. 80 No 9

Saving a Language

We know that computers and other technologies are often quite helpful.  For example, technology is helping to save the Cherokee language. 

• Do you think it is important to try to preserve the language?  Why or why not? 
• Do you have any other suggestions about how the language can be saved?