Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Happy Holidays!


I hope everyone enjoyed their holiday break with family, friends, relaxation and good times!
Seems like it was just yesterday when I was writing to all of you about what the months of September and October brought us at Memorial. November came and went faster then the turkey I devoured over Thanksgiving (and the pies, stuffing, coleslaw, broccoli...)!
November was a very busy month for all grades. Kindergarten has been extremely busy with new and fun fitness exercises, as well as components of teamwork and throwing.
The first and second graders have also been learning different aerobic moves and exercises. Students have seemed to really be enjoying the over hand throwing activities we have been doing as well.
The third through fifth graders have been learning the fundamentals of basketball such as different dribbling, passing and shooting techniques. Each student has made noticeable strides in developing these new techniques. One aspect I strive to achieve is to make the unit enjoyable for everyone involved. Each student is taught proper fundamentals in hopes that should they want to continue playing the specific unit or sport, they have a solid base and continue to grow athletically and physically to maintain fitness throughout their lives.
One of my favorite aspects of November has been the ballroom dancing for the 5th graders! Ms. Tina from Miss Tina Dance Studios in Gloucester, MA comes in and teachers our 5th graders different dances such as the tango, the merengue (my personal favorite), the polka and the swing! With the 5thgraders, one of the aspects I enjoy the most is the attitude that the students bring each class. Students are very respectful and cooperative with one another while learning new ways to help stay physically fit. Mrs. Collins (the P.E. teacher over at Essex) and myself are in the beginning stages of putting together a fun concert for parents to come and watch. Here is Ms. Tina’s website if you would like to learn more:

During the holiday season it is easy to sometimes forget the importance of the meaning behind them. I truly am blessed with this amazing opportunity to help teach the students here at Memorial ways to stay physical active. I appreciate all the students and the great attitudes each individual student brings to class. I hope everyone enjoys these last few weeks of December!

-Mr. Luke Boria