Movie night at school

Last night was great.

St Marks had a back to school/ play ground/ movie night that started at 6.

We picked up E at Delasalle and after she changed we headed over.

At first Ella was not comfortable approaching her friends from last year.  And she didn't want the food that was for sale right away.  Elizabeth and I did though - Corn dogs and Tom Thumb mini donuts...mmm good. Ella did eat later though.

Ella hung out with Hailey and I could she was getting more comfortable.  Then another friend showed and Ella hung back - so did the other friend.  But, then after awhile Ella and Hailey found some other kids to play with and Elizabeth was hanging with the now 8th graders and enjoying those kids.  I got to visit with some parents and chatted with Mary when she walked by with the dogs.  And later Ella went back to A to try again and they both chatted and discussed getting together.  ;-)

It was a great night weather wise and turns out a great night socially too.

We also got to see the update to the cafeteria.  Mr Z contracted with an artist/friend to redo the walls in the cafeteria.  If we had more vacation time we could volunteer to help paint the figures.  What we saw looked great and I can't wait to see it all done.

I had an interesting conversation with Mr Z (Principal of the school).  He told me that Ella told him she was probably going to be a trouble maker this school year.  Thankfully he kept a straight face and talked it over with her.  She was thinking her worries about being in middle school were going to make her change into a trouble maker and Mr Z was able to refocus her.  I hope that Ella took that message in.  She also chatted with Mrs W (middle school English teacher) and she also reassured her that it will be ok.  Ella has been very anxious about this change but I keep telling her she will be ok and within a week she will wonder why she worried.  Soon sweet girl you will believe you can handle the tough stuff and come out shining.

The only bummer was when we found out Miss Groshens is not coming back.  She was Ella's first teacher at St Marks in 3rd grade and was such a gem.  I have not heard yet where she is going but I know she will continue to do well.  We will miss you Miss Groshens and I thank you again for being the person Ella needed after her tough year in 2nd grade at Yinghua.

Happy school year.