Happy Holidays from Dobson

As we depart for winter break, it is important for us to stop and reflect on what a fantastic fall we have had at James Dobson School.  From the Book Feast to the Winter Solstice Celebrations that occurred today, the Dobson Community is truly thankful for all of the students, parents, faculty and staff that make our school such a lively, nurturing, and most importantly safe place to be.

Reflecting on all that we have to be thankful for, we would be remiss not to include our dynamic Home and School Association.  The Home and School has organized many events so far this year.  One of those delicious events was the Book Feast held in November.  Students were treated to snacks and various food items from their favorite books. 

Students from rooms 103, 104, and 106 showed their thankfulness at a pre-Thanksgiving celebration, where the students and their families enjoyed a Thanksgiving lunch before the holiday.  Students stood at their special place settings and introduced themselves.  Each shared something that they were thankful for this year.  From their families, to the food they were about to eat, each student definitely embodied the Thanksgiving spirit.

December ushered in a new sense of excitement as it became very obvious throughout the school that “The Prince Was Giving A Ball!”  This, and many other songs from Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, could be heard ringing down the halls each day.  As preparations came to a close, the annual musical production of Cinderella came off without a hitch.  Both the student assembly and the evening performance for the parents and community showcased the talent of over 60 of our students from 3rd through 8th grade.  On the evening of December 19^th, the cast and crew entertained more than 200 members of the Dobson community.  The incredible talent and teamwork of the cast and crew helped to make Cinderella one of the best performances to grace the Dobson Stage.

Today, the entire school celebrated the Winter Solstice!  Each class, kindergarten through 5^th grade, went to the library to read the “Polar Express” and was treated to cookies and hot chocolate.  To complete the festivities, these students participated in a massive pajama party and came together in the auditorium to watch the “Polar Express” in style.  Students in 6^th through 8^th grade enjoyed cookies and chocolate milk as they read poetry in their classrooms.

With 2012 coming to a close, we have much to look forward to in the New Year… the arrival of the Buzy Bee, winter and spring sports, the start of our choir program, pep rallies, African American History month, PSSA Prep Season and much, much more!

From the Dobson Faculty and Staff, we would like to wish everyone in the Dobson Community a happy and healthy holiday.  We look forward to seeing everyone on January 2, 2013!

Happy Holidays to the Dobson Family!

     As we move into the final school week of the year before the winter break, I want to take a moment to thank the Dobson family for all the support, care and concern for our small but mighty school.  As you can see by reviewing the highlights on this blog, we have been busy this fall. Our 8th graders, under the guidance of our fabulous Middle Years Math and Science teacher, Ms. McConnell, won the city-wide Math+Science Coalition Video contest, bringing to our small but mighty school public recognition and a visit from the Phillie Phanatic. The Drama and Dance crew is gearing up for the holiday show, the environmental ambassadors and faculty sponsor are getting ready for the school-wide tree adoption ceremonies and our Home and School is sponsoring the annual Winter Solstice celebration. As I write, our winning girls' volleyball team is preparing for the championship game, having won their bracket in the tournament. Yes, our small but mighty school is brimming with excitement and achievement. 

       The year's end is a chance to reflect on all our blessings. I am humbled to serve such a committed faculty and staff who are here for the students. From our Cafeteria Manager, Mr. John, to our own Ms. Seinko, and everyone in between, we are here for your children! Not that it is expected, but if, in your holiday bustle, you are contemplating a gift for your child's teacher, please consider sending in a ream of copy paper. As you may be aware, the budget reductions at the school level this year have had a negative impact on our operating budget. A practical gift such as copy paper would go a long way towards mitigating the financial pinch that we are feeling as a part of the school district of Philadelphia. Though a challenge, our small but mighty school can and will persevere through this current budget crunch with the teamwork of home and school united and with Dobson Dolphin Determination.

     The next Home and School Meeting will focus on a proactive response to our situation. Mark your calendars: January 10th @ 6pm in the Library. I look forward to seeing you then.

     In the meantime, celebrate the joys of the season. It is a blessing to experience the magic of this giving season through the eyes of a child. All the best in 2012.

            Patty Cruice, 

            Principal