December 2024 PAWPrints

Dear Panther Families,

December is here and along with cooler temperatures and disappearing daylight, we often see the joy AND stress that the holiday season can sometimes bring. The upcoming weeks can become a little overwhelming as families prepare for family gatherings, special travel, and other activities that take place this time of year. As much as we'd all like to feel that we are organized and well-prepared for the upcoming weeks, it can still prove to be somewhat stressful.

We see increased stress at school during this time as well. At school, students sometimes show stress by crying, acting out, or shutting down. We find that many times, children lack the words to describe or regulate their emotions and that makes it hard for them to know how to handle them. Over the next several weeks, we will spend a lot of time talking and helping children learn how to manage feelings. Feelings are a part of who we are and we each experience a wide range of emotions - that's a good thing! The challenge comes when we aren't sure how to manage feelings like anger, disappointment, and frustration. Please be sure to talk with your child's teacher if you have any special concerns regarding your child's ability to manage their feelings. We are here to help!

December is a very busy time of year and we are all excited for our winter break. During the break, there will be many opportunities for you to create a stronger bond with your child and continue to support their academic growth and success. The holidays are a good time for storytelling around the dinner table, or routines like bedtime reading that cultivate connections between home and school.

I want to wish all of you a safe and restful holiday season filled with family and friends. I look forward to seeing each of you in 2025!

Melissa Schnitzmeier

Principal/Superintendent, Pioneer Elementary

Read all about it!

Read all about it!

Read all about it!

Read all about it!

Read all about it!

Read all about it!

Oh my goodness! I did it and forgot to send. I apologize for it being late. Here it is:

As we move into the holiday season, the library is buzzing with excitement! December is a wonderful time for students to explore new books, engage in creative activities, and reflect on the year’s reading adventures. 

Book Checkout: Students can check out up to  2 books at a time. Please remind your child to return their books on time to ensure they have access to new ones for winter break reading!

Looking for a great book to read over the winter break? Here are some of our library’s top picks:

These titles are perfect for cozy winter reading and are available for checkout in the library!

Happy December!

There will be two seats open on the Pioneer School Board.

There will be one seat open on the Board that is a 3 year term. There will also be one seat open on the Board that is a 1 year term.

You may pick up a nomination petition in the school office after December 12 or contact Mrs. Michael and she can email the form to you.

You must reside and be registered to vote in Pioneer School District to run for the School Board.

Nomination Petitions must be turned in by March 27 by 5:00 pm.

The election will be held in May.

School Board meetings are held the 2nd Monday of each month at 4:30 pm – the public is always welcome. If you have any questions about the Pioneer School Board, please contact Mrs. Michael

12/3 - 6TH-8TH Hot Lunch - Chicken Noodle Soup

AR Bike Raffle Assembly

12/9 - Blankets & Bears Assembly

Board Meeting

12/10 - Hot Lunch - Ground Beef Tacos

12/16 - Santa's Secret Shop

12/17 - Santa's Secret Shop

12/19 - Christmas Program

12/23 - 1/2 - WINTER BREAK

We sure love our community events!