W. L. Morse 2008-2009 News

Holiday Concerts Are a Big Success!

On December 4th, all students participated in our annual Holiday Concerts led by our music teacher, Joy Giuseffi. The second graders participated in a sing-along of some of our favorite songs of the season. We ended by filling the auditorium with ringing as each student rang a homemade jingle bell bracelet. The third graders saw elves, broke the piñata and celebrated the coming of snow days. We even had a visit from Mrs.Claus!  The concert ended with the entire student body singing America while each held up a flag for our country. For the first time, the third graders were able to repeat their concert in the evening so family and friends who aren't normally able to could attend. Thanks to all of you who came to these wonderful events! (Posted 12/9/08 )

From the Library…

The students at W.L. Morse School recently listened to the classic story of imagination, Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson. Inspired by Harold’s original adventure in which he explores the world outside his bedroom window, purple crayon in hand, many of the 2^nd and 3^rd graders went home and mimicked Harold themselves. What ensued could be considered Harold mania! The library bulletin board is an inspiring artistic tribute to our students’ rich imaginations and ability to make connections to literature.  Their original stories and images range from Harold underwater, Harold and the Headless Horseman, Harold and J.F.K, to Harold at the Taj Mahal.  For families who would like to explore with Harold, Crockett Johnson has written several additional titles, including Harold and the Purple Crayon Treasury: Five Adventures and Harold y el lapiz color morado (en español), many of which are available at the Warner Library. (Posted 12/8/08)

Clothing Sale Success!!!

W.L. Morse’s Second Semi-Annual “Gently Used Clothing Sale” was a wonderful success this past weekend.  Thanks to the dedicated help from the EPTA, staff and student volunteers, $1500 was earned to be put towards “Green” projects within the school.  Thank you to all who donated clothing to this worthwhile event.  Thanks also go to those who came to replenish their wardrobes.  Wonderful clothing was recycled and will be reused, allowing us to save the earth in our own way. (Posted 11/3/08)

Third Graders at Morse School Study Cubism

An exhibit of student work will be on view at the  Warner Library beginning November 7th

After comparing and contrasting realistic and abstract paintings in the art studio, third grade artists began the year by making Cubist-style paintings. Cubism was a school of painting popular in Europe during the early part of the last century.  Cubist painters used geometric shapes to create abstract paintings.  Unlike other styles, abstract art does not concern itself with creating photographic representations of the world.

Cubists used geometric forms in different ways.  Some Cubist painters wanted us to recognize “things” in their work but Robert Delaunay and his spouse Sonia believed that color and shape alone could create beautiful art.  They worked together for many years making paintings that looked like fragmented rainbows.  In the spirit of the Delaunays, the third grade used templates to create designs filled with overlapping shapes and then colored their work with tempera paint.

Along with our discussions of art history and shapes, students were able to develop their understanding of color theory.  While painting, each child had a color wheel at their side to consult as they mixed their custom colors.  Lively “color conversation” took place at all worktables.     (Posted 10/27/08)

Morse Celebrates Its Character!

New at Morse this year…At Morse, Character Counts! This new initiative embraces the pillars of character: citizenship, responsibility, honesty, trustworthiness, friendship, and perseverance. Students will participate in morning meetings which engage them in learning about these ideals and ways to actively demonstrate their understanding and personification of them. At the end of each week, classes will be recognized for the achievement of measurable goals. We are looking forward to recognizing our wonderful students this year! (Posted 9/14/08)

Click here for the Morse 08- 09  Student Handbook

Visit Our News Archive