News from Around Brown - June 2011

Library News

Summer is here! Splash your kids into the public library’s summer reading program if you need books or fun things to do.

Also, a reminder that all library books should have been returned by June 7th. If you think your book is lost please pay the appropriate amount:

Paperback $ 10.00

Hardcover $ 20.00

Have a fantastic summer! Bon été!

Marie-France Gagnon, Teacher-librarian

QSP Fundraiser Returns This Fall

The QSP Magazine Fundraiser will be returning to our school this fall so please save your magazine orders (new or renewal) and order through our campaign to support your child’s education. If you can't wait until our campaign begins this fall, you can order any time of the year at http://www.qsp.ca/.

Exciting News From the Outreach Committee

Sage Garden Project is Underway

If you bought a water bottle at Garden Fete, than you have already seen the logo for the Sage Garden and may be wondering what it is all about. It is part of a garden and art mural project which is currently underway at Brown School. The project was kicked off in May when a Native Elder came and talked to each class about the importance of plants to native culture and the significance of the medicine wheel.

The Sage garden will be planted in the garden area near the sitting rocks. A series of murals that depict the plants and their properties will be attached to the fence to add colour and interest to the school yard.

Many of the classes in the school have been involved in creating artwork for the murals.  The classes were assigned a plant and asked to research its properties, the types of insects it attracts and any medicinal uses. The students then collaborated as to how to depict this information in a mural. The painting of the murals will take place this week and we are hoping that all stages of the garden will be completed by the end of the school year.

Brown is Bringing Back the Canadian Wild!

In April, the Earth Rangers and their animal ambassadors visited Brown to help raise awareness about the need to protect endangered species and their homes in Canada.  Without hesitation, the Brown community took on the challenge to protect the Jefferson salamander of the Happy Valley Forest (Ontario), the grizzly bear of the Great Bear Rainforest (BC), the peregrine falcon of the Upper Bay of Fundy (New Brunswick) and the wolverine of Crow's Nest Pass (Alberta).  Through a "Wild and Wacky" spirit day, a bake sale and a pledge campaign, the students raised an incredible $7,525.51!  What a great way to show your commitment to preserving our precious biodiversity right here at home, Brown!!  Great job!                                                     

Thank you from the Outreach Committee

A big thank you to all the students who participated in this year's Outreach Committee activities.  It was fun and we accomplished a lot.  A special thank you to teachers Mme Breslin, Mme Sulymko and Ms Hirsch!  Looking forward to reacquainting ourselves with our fellow members, as well as meeting new members, in September.  Have a great summer!