Rosscarrock School We are your neighbourhood School 2008-2009

Kindergarten to grade 6

Learning is our central purpose

Principal’s message This school is a gem! Walk with me down the hallways and peek into classrooms and see why we love our school. Young people and adults are learning together in a happy, supportive environment.

Welcome to Rosscarrock School • Motto “Rosscarrock Cares”.

• Kindergarten to grade six.

• Small community school 140 students.

• Many students walk to school.

• Out of area students choosing Rosscarrock School: 40.

Rosscarrock School: • High quality staff love working here.

• Diversity of students – many cultures are represented. • Excellent physical appearance inside.

• The community enjoys playground constructed September 2007.

Our students include… • 21% English as a Second Language (speaking 22 languages from 21 countries) • 27% with special needs on Individual Program Plans.

• 19% aboriginal students

Programs and unique features • Daily Physical Education • .4 Music Specialist • .3 Literacy Support Teacher • Mentorship Program – Big Brother/Big Sisters find mentors for selected students.

Support for students: • Resource teacher coordinates student services.

• High quality ESL and Literacy Support.

• Educational Assistants works directly with children.

• Fuel for School Breakfast Program.

• Lunch Program: hot soup Tues/Thurs.

Support for students • Homework Club Monday to Thursday after school.

• After school Y Program for grades 4 to 6.

• The Rosscarrock Community and Family parents, students and the community at large with help and resources.

Celebrating student work

Recent guest educators • Calgary Reads volunteers – all year • Two Quest Theatre plays every year.

• Quest Theatre week long residency, November 2008.

• Liz Sullivan – artist in residence 07-08 • David Thiaw, African drummer and his band – October 2007 • University of Calgary, Archaeology In-school Interpretive Program, January 2009 • Three Left Feet, dance instructors.

“Our School, Our Community” mural Dena Seiferling, Calgary artist

As you enter the school…

Lunchroom staff supervise students

Library • All students sign out books.

• Resources for research.

• Teachers read quality literature.

Library improvements • $20 000 new books.

• Freshly painted walls.

• Improved shelving.

• Library assistant works with students.

Computers support learning

The Reading Room • Guided reading resources K to 3.

• Books support classroom reading instruction.

• Books for home reading.

New Resources that support student learning • Social studies texts K – 6.

• New music instruments.

• New math resources.

• New literacy resources for grades 4 – 6.

Active Parent Council • Parents and school work together.

• New playground September 2007.

• New computers in lab and classrooms.

• Fundraising supports swimming, off campus activities, Guest Educators.

Parent Council, staff and community constructed new playground – September 2007.

Building Improvements • New roof – August 2006.

• Installed sink in lunchroom.

• New mailboxes, cupboard and coat closet in staffroom.

• Hallways, library and other public spaces “de-cluttered”.

• Hallways and offices painted Jan 09.

School Development goals: 2008-2009

1. Student achievement in the area of writing will

• Increase % of students at the Acceptable Standard in grade three and six to 85%. Increase % achieving Standard of Excellence in grades 3 and 6.

2. Student achievement in the area of writing will improve.

• Increase % of students at Acceptable Standard in grade three and six to 85%. Increase % achieving Standard of Excellence in grades three and six.

How you help our students.

• Learning is our central purpose. • Model being a learner.

• Show respect to others.

• Get along with others in the community.

• Have fun together.