You may have been reading in the newspapers about the Hour of Code, a push by educators and technology companies to introduce students to the idea of software coding.  The programs are developmentally appropriate, engaging, and, I confess, more than a little compelling.  Peggy Harvey, our technology instructor, taught many of the grade level classes to use the programs.  In the first grade, Tara Livolsi was so interested that she took Mrs. Geran's class to the computer lab and asked the students to try programming too.  Even at this early level, the students could understand the patterns required in coding.  Between Tara's and my efforts, most of the students successfully completed several coding puzzles.  You can try the coding programs at home too by going to tynker.com.  It might be a great family activity during the snowstorm tomorrow.  I know I am going to take advantage of the snow and spend a little time on the tynker.com on Sunday.  Let me know what coding puzzles you enjoyed.  Happy Coding!

Blanchard's Winter Band Concert Rocks

On December 9th and 10th, Blanchard Elementary School Band held its annual Winter Concert.  The Advanced Band  played On Wisconsin, Two Renaissance Sketches, Triton Fanfare, Jazzy Brown Jug (a crowed favorite) and Frosty the Snowman.  The Woodwind Ensemble played Greensleeves, Can-Can, and The Pink Panther.  The Percussion Ensemble played the interesting Strateejurie.  The Brass Ensemble played Music from the Royal Fireworks, Trumpet Voluntary, Rock of Ages, and Freddie the Freeloader.  Finally, the Gold Stage Band played Blue Train, Caribbean Fever, Can't Help Falling in Love, and Blanchard's anthem, Louie, Louie.  The Winter Concert is especially meaningful to our community because the sixth grade teachers and students host a breakfast for our senior citizens who also remain for the concert.