4th Grade News

Wednesday, September 18, 2019

Dear 4th Grade Families,

Thank you for all of the support you are giving your child and the Havens
community. It was great that every student heard of Ms. Jepsen's passing from
their parents. We talked in class Monday morning - we emphasized that everyone
reacts differently to sad news - some with tears, some with questions, some like to
stay busy, and some like to take time to reflect. We reassured the students that all
of these feelings and reactions are ok. Lori Morris and Ms. Dolid visited our
classrooms as well to talk and answer questions. We are thankful for their
support.

We also feel thankful to have been part of an amazing 4th grade team with Ms.
Jepsen. We work so well together sharing activities, lessons, and step in for each
other when needed. Miss Michele and Ms. Roine have stepped in as part of this
team with the same dedication to their students Ms. Jepsen has always modeled.
Ms. Mortan and Ms. Finney are continuing to work on lesson plans and support
Miss Michele and Ms. Roine.

This week we are staying with our daily schedules with a few modifications.
Routines are important for the kids and for us, too. 4th grade always makes time
for art, so we’ll of course be making room for art this week. The 4th grade classes
will also be harvesting the garden with the help of 5th grade students who were
part of Ms. Jepsen's class last year. One of Katie's passions was the garden and
the 5th graders are excited to lend their expertise. We can’t think of a better way
to honor Katie this week.

Many thanks,
Ms. Mortan, Ms. Finney, Miss Michele, Ms. Roine