Greetings Kent Middle School Families,

Physical Education Dance Unit – Through the month of December in Kent Physical Education classes, all students will be participating in the annual dance unit. A favorite among many students and teachers alike, the dance unit provides time and space for students to practice movement, expression, teamwork, collaboration, and creativity through the learning and performance of choreographed dance routines.

Led by PE teacher Jason Gatti in 5th grade, and dance instructor Rosie Wendell in 6th through 8th grades, students will be working in groups and learning choreographed moves to a number of their favorite songs. In addition to the composed choreography, each group will design their own introductory and concluding dance sequence, and then perform their group’s dance to the rest of the class at the end of each week. Students will learn basic elements and steps of a variety of dances, and apply these steps to choreographed numbers danced to songs that they love. Contagious dancing energy abounds at our school as students learn and practice some sophisticated steps, and have a ton of fun moving and shaking with their peers and teachers. Traditionally, dancing extends well beyond the PE classrooms, with spontaneous dance routines popping up all around campus! Much appreciation to our PE team, dance instructor Rosie Wendell, and the KSPTA for supporting this important experience for our students each year!

First Trimester Report Cards – First trimester report cards will be available for students and families in Aeries starting the evening of Monday, December 12th. These report cards will highlight the most essential skills and concepts learned through the first trimester of school in each class, and will capture your child’s current level of proficiency in each area. We look forward to clear communication about your child’s progress, and to continuing to nurture maximum academic, social, and creative growth through the second trimester and beyond.

Let’s have a great week ahead!