Benson Bobcat Blog

Earth Day Clean Up

2010-04-29T14:34:00.002-04:00

Benson Students pitched in to clean up the community on Earth Day. In teams, students were assigned a neighbourhood area and worked together to pick up garbage and beautify the area. Take a look at the slideshow below to see 1C and 1M cleaning up the yard. Way to go Bobcats!

Benson Boys Buy Books!

2010-04-29T14:31:00.001-04:00

Ever wonder what boys like to read? Mrs. Moore and 5 boys from grades 6, 7 and 8 spent some time at Chapters this week choosing books for the school library. The boys made some excellent selections. Look for these new novels, manga, information books and much more on the library shelves soon!

The Book Fair is Coming!

2010-04-21T22:03:00.000-04:00

Due to popular demand, the Scholastic Book Fair is coming back to Benson School! Please visit the Benson Library May 6 - 11 to purchase up some great books!

We invite you to share in this celebration of books and reading with us.

Students will visit the Book Fair during class time and can purchase books during that visit. If you are unable to visit the Fair, look over the attached Highlights flyer with your child and use the Student Wish List form to select books. Then, simply send it and the correct amount of money to school with your child.

Don’t forget to enter our Family Event Draw. You could win $50 in books – $25 for your family and $25 for your child’s classroom!

We hope to see you at the Book Fair.

Benson Bobcats Google Search

2010-04-21T11:17:00.000-04:00

Pink Shirt Campaign to Raise Anti-Bullying Awareness

2010-04-14T20:20:00.000-04:00

Benson Bobcats were 'in the pink' on Wednesday as they supported the anti-bullying Pink Shirt Day campaign. Students from JK - Grade 8 donned pink clothing and participated in anti-bullying activities throughout the day. Thanks to Mr. Cutting and the Safe School Committee for leading Benson students in awareness of this event.

Hot Chocolate for Haiti

2010-02-02T12:42:00.000-05:00

Students at Benson extended their hearts to Haiti by raising money for the
earthquake victims. Students participated in this fundraiser by purchasing hot
chocolate knowing the money raised was going to a good cause. Students were
very excited about being part of the board-wide initiative to help the many
people in need. In addition, Benson's Parent Council and students have been very
instrumental and creative with raising money. Parent Council has been
organizing and running special activities every Friday to raise money for
Haiti. Great job Bobcats!

Benson Holiday Concert

2009-12-15T21:29:00.000-05:00

The Benson Bobcats showed their holiday spirit today as we joined together in the gym to celebrate the season. Special thanks to Mr. Williamson for his hard work with the music students and in organizing this concert. Happy holidays Bobcats!

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Senior Centre Choir 12/15/09 at OneTrueMedia.com

2009-12-15T09:34:00.001-05:00

The Grade 3, 4 and 4/5 classes visited the Centre for Seniors Windsor to sing some holiday carols. The boys and girls sang several songs, accompanied by the intermediate drumming team. Following the choir, students were treated to cookies and candy canes. What a wonderful way to shine in our community!

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Door Decorating 12/11/09 at OneTrueMedia.com

2009-12-11T13:21:00.001-05:00

The Benson students put their artistic skills to work designing and creating holiday themed doors. Enjoy the short video below displaying the holiday creations.

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Spelling Bee

2009-12-09T21:10:00.000-05:00

Splendid Spelling Today in the Benson Gym!
Congratulations to the students pictured below who represented the Gr. 4-8 classes at the annual Benson School Spelling Bee today.

Special thanks to Mrs. Hillman, Miss MacMillan and Mrs. Laberi for judging the competition which was organized by Mrs. Vidamour.
The competition at the spelling bee was fierce!! Ultimately Raymond (6M) spelled his way to victory by correctly spelling the word, 'momentum'. Alvin (5J) ran a close second, but was tripped up by the word 'harness'. Raymond will be representing Benson this spring at the Regional Spelling Bee. Good luck Raymond!

Benson Cares Anti-Bullying Poster Contest

2009-12-04T09:19:00.000-05:00

Many Benson students participated in the Benson Cares, Stop Bullying Poster Contest. Students from grades 1 to 8 were invited to create a poster that sent a powerful message about bullying. Many teachers took this poster contest as an opportunity to discuss the impact bullying can have on someone and how bystanders can prevent and stop bullying.
Special thanks to the students on the Safe School Committee who encouraged other students to get involved in this contest, and who continue to promote good character within our school.
The winners of this years Benson Cares, Stop Bullying Poster Contest:
(Grade 5 to 8 category) (Grade 1-4 category)
1st. Writtick D. 1st. Matayah C.
2nd. Nancy T. 2nd. Laila B.
3rd. Bashar A. 3rd. Sierra M.
A big thank-you is extended to everyone who
participated!

2009-12-04T09:14:00.001-05:00

We Care, We Can Food Drive - HUGE Success

Benson students once again displayed great character by supporting the "We
Care, We Can" food drive. Students enthusiastically participated by
encouraging one another to bring in cans and were very excited about the
thought of helping others and making a difference in their community. Mrs. Hillis' class donted the most cans with a total of 160 cans. Way to go grade 2!

Great job Bobcats for showing what caring looks like in action!

We Can, We Care Can Drive

2009-11-19T14:42:00.000-05:00

During the month of November Benson staff and students participated in our Board-wide "WE CARE, WE CAN" food drive. Thank you to Mr.Cutting and the Safe School Committee for organizing this events. Way to go Bobcats!

Accommodation Meeting

2009-11-16T09:46:00.000-05:00

November 10, 2009
Dear Benson and Taylor School Parents and Guardians:

You have previously received a letter inviting you to a meeting to discuss proposals regarding accommodation issues at both Benson and Taylor Schools. Due to unforeseen circumstances, it has become necessary to adjust the meeting dates and times.

Please note that we will now meet with both the Benson and Taylor communities at Taylor School on Tuesday, November 17, 2009 at 5 p.m. in the gymnasium.

The previously scheduled meeting for November 26 is cancelled.

At this meeting we will review the recommendations from June 2009, provide a status update about the viability of options available at this time.

We look forward to seeing you on November 17, 2009 and apologize for any inconvenience.
Sincerely,

Superintendent of Education
Warren Kennedy, Director of Education

New Slogan for Benson School!

2009-10-11T21:26:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to Mackenzie in 6M!! She designed and created the artwork for the winning slogan poster in our recent poster contest. "Benson Bobcats Stand Above the Rest!"

It was a very difficult decision for the Benson staff to choose a winner. Take a look at some of the other awesome slogans and posters created by 5/6V and 6M.

Literacy Day at Benson

2009-05-07T20:49:00.000-04:00

Benson families celebrated Literacy Day today. In the morning, parents visited classrooms to engage in literacy activities with their children. Hundreds of new library books were displayed in the school library. The new Ontario Early Years Centre made a great debut this morning. This afternoon students participated in a school wide Read A Thon. Guest readers visited the classrooms and students were invited to the library to borrow some of the exciting new resources.
Way to read Benson!

Staff and students enjoying the new library books purchased with the Ministry Library Resource Initiative grant.

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

We Love Literacy!

2009-04-30T09:25:00.000-04:00

Thursday, May 7 - All Families Welcome!

AM - Family Literacy Morning

Classroom Open House - 9:15 - 10:45 AM
You are invited to work together with your child and teachers in a variety of literacy and numeracy activities. Learn tips to help your child learn! Visit the library where hundreds of new books and other resources will be on display.
Ontario Early Years Open House - 9:15 - 10:45 AM
Take a tour of the future site of our Ontario Early Years Centre. Food and child care will be provided.
Q & A Session - School Social Services Team - 11:00 - 11:50 AM
Parents, come and learn about accessing basic needs support at 221WindsorEssex.ca

PM - Read A Thon
Students will participate in a school wide read a thon in the afternoon. Remember to collect those pledges and return your pledge forms by Monday, May 11. All proceeds from the readathon go directly to the classroom.

Fairy Tale Day

2009-04-13T12:45:00.000-04:00

Once Upon A Time.....Miss Moffat and Mrs. Gelinas celebrated with their classes at a Fairy Tale Celebration. Students dressed as fairy tale characters, performed a very elegant waltz and shared a potluck lunch! ...and they lived happily ever after!
BubbleShare: Share photos - Play some Online Games.

Bobcat Blab #1

2009-02-20T20:06:00.001-05:00

The Grade 7 media class has been working with Mr. Kennedy to create a bi-weekly podcast reflecting their own interest. The first Bobcat Blab podcast was created by Izaya, Yehya, Jessica, Dania, Writtick and Don and feature a poetry corner, riddles and "did you know?". Listen up!

School Spelling Bee

2009-01-23T13:57:00.000-05:00

Ready, Set, Spell!
Congratulations to the students pictured below who represented their classes at the annual Benson School Spelling Bee this month.

Special thanks to Mrs. Hillman, Mrs. Moore and Mrs. Champagne for judging the competition which was organized by Mrs. Laberi.

The competition at the spelling bee was fierce!! Ultimately Nhi (8C) spelled her way to victory by correctly spelling the word, 'elite'. Katilyn (7/8K) ran a close second, but was tripped up by the word 'stoic'. Nhi will be representing our school March 1 at the Regional Spelling Bee held at St. Thomas of Villanova Festival Theatre. Good luck Nhi!

2009-01-12T20:40:00.000-05:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Holiday Concert 2008

2008-12-17T20:56:00.000-05:00

The Benson auditorium was filled with holiday spirit on the evening December 16th. Students sang, danced, played, acted and joked their way through a fantastic holiday programme.
Ondraya was an entertaining Master of Ceremonies and there were starring performances from:
JK and SK- Jingle Bells medley , jokes and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
1C and 1/2M - Kris Kringle’s Jingle Bell Band and Must Be Santa
2P - The Snowman and The Gingerbread Man poems
3M - Why Santa Hired the Elves dramatic presentation and The Elves Freeze Dance
Mme. Kazoun’s Grade 4’s and Mrs. Lynn’s ESL class - Ding Din Don C'est Noel
Mrs. Moore and Miss Landry’s Dance Team featuring dance moves from girls in 5/6M and 6/7K - Hip Hop Sleigh Ride
3/4G. 4SW and 5J Candlelight Silent Night choir
4SW and 5J African Noel Choir and Live Percussion
BAND (Students from 6/7K, 7/8K and 8C) O Canada!, A Christmas Sleigh Ride, First Rockin’ Christmas

Book Fair Success!

2008-11-30T18:40:00.000-05:00

Thank you to the staff and students for supporting the book fair this year. Many of you are now enjoying some excellent reading selections, and we raised almost $1000 in book credit for our school library! We will be conducting our draw for the Family Event winner and the poster winners at the assembly on Monday, Dec. 1. Thanks. Mrs. Moore

Remembrance Day

2008-11-11T20:54:00.000-05:00

Students in 4SW and ESL attended the Remembrance Day service at the Downtown Windsor centotaph. Students paid their respects to the soldiers who have in the past and continue today to keep peace for our country Canada. Students met Mayor Eddie Francis and talked with several veterans who were also in attendance at the centotaph. Back at school Ms. Landry, Mrs. Pohanka and their team put on a touching ceremony in the school auditorium. Classes participated by presenting class-made wreaths as symbols of our respect.

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Little Ones Learn Mad Science!

2008-11-09T11:45:00.000-05:00

The Junior and Senior Kindergaten and Grade One students are budding little scientists! On Friday, November 7, our youngest students learned about magnets and made other scientific discoveries under the guidance of the presenters from Mad Science!

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Eric Walters Visits Benson

2008-11-09T11:36:00.000-05:00

On Thursday, November 6, award winning author Eric Walters visited Benson School. The Junior and Intermediate students enjoyed listening to his dynamic presentation. His passion for life is evident in his sharing of his writings, his humour and his tales about children less fortunate than we are. You can take a look at some of the projects the students have been working on with Mrs. Moore in the library regarding Eric Walters and his novels on the Benson Library Wiki.

Anti Bullying Poster Contest Winners

2008-10-30T21:05:00.000-04:00

Anti-Bullying Poster Contest

Wow! Benson students are fantastic media artists! We had so many wonderful entries, many of which are decorating our front hallway.
Congratulations to the contest winners!

Primary - Hridita, Livia and Rawand
Junior/Intermediate - Denise, Nhi and Rebecca

Visit www.moblyng.com to make your own!

Walk-A-Thon

2008-10-24T21:49:00.001-04:00

On behalf of the Benson staff and students, we would like to sincerely thank all our families and community friends for their warm generosity in pledging donations in support of our school walkathon. The proceeds will benefit all students (e.g. extra-curricular activities, field trips, house league incentives, etc.). Our entire school walked proudly with great school spirit! We’d also like to thank Ms Colebrook’s grade 8 class as they raised approximately $1200.00 as our top class and the school raised a total of just over $4000.00! A job well done!
Mr. Petrusenko
BubbleShare: Share photos - Craft Ideas

School Council News

2008-10-24T21:49:00.000-04:00

Our school council would like to encourage parents to attend our next school council meeting on Wednesday, November 26 at 12:30 in the auditorium. If you have any suggestions or questions, a Parent Suggestion Box is now available. One is located just outside the main office and the other is located in the Ontario Early Years’ room. Our school council chair, Mrs. Caroline Postma has also graciously offered to have parents contact her directly through her e-mail address as she looks forward to acting as a liaison between our parents and the school. Caroline’s address is: cpostma@city.windsor.on.ca

Harrier Meet

2008-10-12T11:44:00.000-04:00

The Harrier team had a beautiful, sunny day to travel to Malden Park to take place in the long distance running races. Thank you to Mrs. Hillis for taking the time to practise with us and to Mrs. Gelinas for accompanying us to the meet.

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Peaceful Happenings at Benson School

2008-09-21T17:35:00.000-04:00

Pinwheels for Peace
On the morning of September 19, 2008, J.E. Benson School joined many other schools across Windsor and Essex County, by taking part in the International art and literacy project, Pinwheels for Peace.
All week long leading up to this event, students joined Mrs. Moore in the library for a literacy lesson based on peace and to create pinwheels decorated with words and drawings which express their feelings of peace. Friday morning the students planted their pinwheels in the front schoolyard facing Wyandotte Street, as a public statement showing how Benson students promote peace at school, throughout our community and the world!

Toonies for Terry
Students continued to think of others Friday afternoon by participating in the annual "Toonies for Terry" Terry Fox Walk. Students raised funds by collecting loonies and toonies. A donation will be made to the Terry Fox Foundation to help find a cure for cancer.

Safe School Committee
The J.E. Benson Safe School Committee is made up of students who want to make Benson a safe and caring community for all learners! This team of student leaders meet weekly with Mr. Cutting, our CYW, to plan events, be trained as playground coaches, and share ideas to promote peaceful interactions at Benson School. One of their first initiatives is an Anti-Bullying Poster Contest.

Anti-Bullying Poster Contest
Students are participating in a school-wide poster creation contest to increase awareness about bullying and to continue our quest to prevent bullying in our school community. Winning posters from each division will be highlighted on our school web site and prominently displayed in the welcoming foyer of our school.

Welcome Back!

2008-09-04T20:46:00.000-04:00

Welcome back to the 2008/2009 school year!

This photo is from an old classic TV show, Welcome Back Kotter... funny stuff (really, moms, dads, and grandparents will back me up, just ask them:-)

We are all looking forward to another superb year at Benson School. Remember to get your AUP and Media Release forms signed and returned so that we can start adding your fine work to this blog!

:-) Mrs. Moore

Grade 8 Graduation

2008-06-22T17:24:00.000-04:00

Believe You Can Achieve!

Our Benson Grade 8 graduates said goodbye to their elementary years this past Thursday during a beautiful and inspirational graduation ceremony. Congratulations to all graduates!

Music With Brian

2008-06-12T20:23:00.000-04:00

Today the boys and girls in JK, SK, 1M, 1/2C and 2M enjoyed a fantastic concert on our front lawn. We sang and danced to the musical stylings of Music With Brian. Tiko did a great job as "Father Duck" and all of the students showed us their very best dance moves! What a special way to spend a warm Thursday afternoon!

Ojibway Park

2008-06-08T21:19:00.000-04:00

The Grade 1's and 2's in Ms. Mellanby and Mrs. Crowder's classes visited Ojibway Park last week. The students explored the marsh, scooped up tadpoles, did some bird watching and even spotted a deer. What an exciting way to start off the month of June!
BubbleShare: Share photos - Play some Online Games.

Medieval Feast in 4L

2008-06-08T20:54:00.000-04:00

The Grade 4 students have been learning about Medieval times. Students in 4L and 3/4SG built their very own model castles and brought them in for the students to display in a walk through. Wow, what creative and intricate castles!
4L celebrated the end of this social studies unit with a Medieval Feast. Students drew names to choose the royal members who presided over the feast. Brianne and Joel, Omar and Hena were the class royalty. They were the only ones to eat the feast with utensils!! The jesters and peasants enjoyed the feast in true medieval fashion...with their bare hands. A deliciously royal time was had by all!
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Bobcats Jump Rope For Heart

2008-06-08T20:48:00.000-04:00

On Friday, June 6 Benson students participated in the Heart and Stroke Foundation's Jump Rope For Heart fundraiser. The students kept active all day skipping and throwing hoops! Keep jumping Bobcats!
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Activity Thon Fundraiser

2008-05-22T22:28:00.000-04:00

Great job Bobcats! You helped to raise almost $2000 for our school in our ActivityThon Fundraiser! Click the play button below to see students involved in reading, board games and other fun activities which do not involve turning on the TV!

Firefighters Visit Benson School

2008-05-22T21:08:00.001-04:00

Benson students in Grades 1,2 and 3 are learning fire safety from some of Windsor's own firefighters. We had a talk about fire safety, demonstation of fire fighting equipment, a tour of the fire truck and a question and answer period. Thank you to our settlement worker Heidi Lui for organizing this activity.

Turn Off the TV Week

2008-05-14T20:26:00.000-04:00

What a great week! Following a rainy start on Monday, Tuesday saw many students participating in our Activity Week with after school activities such as crafts, fooseball, baseball, skipping, jewellery making and science experiments. We are learning that even though the TV is waiting for us at home, there are SOOOO many things to do after school that are even more fun! On Wednesday many more students joined in activities such as painting, golf, skipping, baking and ping pong. Thursday afternoon we will be heading over to Wilson Park for our Track and Field events. Friday is our ACTIVITY-THON Fundraiser! The entire school will join in reading, physical activities, a neighbourhood walk, board games, activity centres and a school assembly featuring a Turn off the TV Media spot created by Mrs. Moore's Early Literacy students and Gr. 7 & 8 dance groups! Remember to collect those pledges and return your yellow form on Friday!

Learning Through the Arts

2008-05-10T21:49:00.000-04:00

The Learning Through the Arts Program has been a tremendous success at Benson School this year! This program which brings professional artists to the students has been a highlight for students in 1/2C. To share their excitement in creating unique art pieces, click play on the slide show below.

3K Citizenship Assembly

2008-05-07T22:52:00.001-04:00

Students in 3K know what it takes to be a good citizen at Benson School. Mr. Kennedy and the class worked on creating an original rap song sharing what they know with the rest of the school. Take a look at Benson's first ever original music video highlighting their fantastic presentation at the last school assembly!

Blue Spruce Winner!

2008-05-04T22:19:00.000-04:00

The Primary classes have been casting their votes this week to choose their favourite Blue Spruce picture book! Over the past few months in Early Literacy, the students have been enjoying Canadian picture books especially selected by the Ontario Library Association. After reading and discussing all ten nominees, the students selected Scaredy Squirrel Makes a Friend by an overwhelming margin!

Some of the students in 3K chose to record a podcast to explain why they voted the way they did. Click to hear Rawand discussing In My Backyard, Sarah discussing Please Louise, and Alvin, Daniel, Heather, Elijah, Harman and Jessika supporting their vote for Scaredy Squirrel Makes a Friend.

Benson Idol!

2008-04-30T19:33:00.000-04:00

"Benson Idol".... where all the participants are winners!!

Benson School students have been rehearsing for weeks now, perfecting their singing, dancing and instrumental skills.
Today, in our auditorium, these fantastic students presented "Benson Idol" for parents, classmates and staff. Under the direction of Mrs. Harrison, Miss Landry and Mr. Williamson, Benson students were invited to showcase their unique talents. The participants wowed the audience with singing, dancing, martial arts, gymnastics, instrumental talents and much, much more! Way to go Benson Idols ... you are all stars! The play button below for more pictures of our Benson Idols.

New Class Web Page

2008-04-29T03:22:00.000-04:00

Check out Mr. Malmberg's new class web page The 6M Mix!

Faith Nolen Visits Benson

2008-04-21T08:05:00.000-04:00

Friday, April 18th Benson School hosted singer, Faith Nolen. There was a celebration of diverse cultures as Faith invited students to join in singing and dancing their way through songs embracing a wide variety of cultures. The space was packed with swaying, rocking, singing and friendship! Thank you Faith Nolen for visiting our school and bringing your enthusiasm!

SK Earth Day Tips

2008-04-17T20:37:00.000-04:00

Mrs. Hillis' SK class have been talking about saving our planet! Visit their podcast for some Eco tips!

Earth Day Tips from JK and SK

2008-04-17T20:20:00.000-04:00

Visit our Podomatic page hear our JK students and their Earth Day Podcast. They share some tips to keep our Earth happy!

Precious Plastecine Art!

2008-04-11T18:48:00.000-04:00

Mrs. Moore's Early Literacy classes have been learning about Canadian author and illustrator Barbara Reid. She is known for her detailed illustrations created with plastecine.
Click the play buttons below to watch short animoto videos featuring creations from our Primary students.
1M

1/2C

2M

3K

Class of the Week Interview

2008-04-07T18:26:00.001-04:00

Last week Mrs. Pickersgill's AM JK class were featured on AM 800. Click here to listen to that interview.

Tiger Day!

2008-03-30T11:39:00.000-04:00

Staff and students will celebrate the Detroit Tiger baseball opener on Monday, March 31. Show your school spirit by wearing you Tiger gear and support Mrs. Pohanka's favourite team!

JK - AM Class of the Week!

2008-03-26T20:23:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to Mrs. Pickersgill and her JK AM class. They have been selected as the AM 800 Class of the Week and will be hosting guests from AM 800 Thursday, April 3. The boys and girls will also be enjoying a delicious complimentary breakfast from McDonalds. Way to go JK AM!

Breakfast Club Volunteers Needed

2008-03-17T10:15:00.000-04:00

Benson School is always looking for dedicated volunteers either in the classroom or in other capacities. Currently, there is a need for anyone who can help our students in the Breakfast Club getting students off to a great day with a nutritious breakfast. If you can help out on any day from Monday to Friday during the hours of 8-9 am, please call Mr. Petrusenko at 254-3761. Thank you so much.

Welcome

2008-03-14T20:24:00.000-04:00

Welcome to the new blog for J.E. Benson School, home of the Bobcats!

Posted here will be current, up to the minute information for all of our Benson families.

We hope that everyone had a restful and entertaining March Break. We are ready to get back to stretching those minds!! Here are a few engaging literacy sites to keep students busy until Monday:

1. For Primary/Junior students:

Create sentences and put words in order: http://www.xmleducation.co.uk/magnets.html

2. For Junior/Intermediate students:

Spell your name with images from Flickr

http://metaatem.net/words/

3. For Primary students:

Have fun reading and working with words:

http://www.starfall.com/

4. For everyone:

Visit the Windsor Public Library online. Click Kids Corner : Fun & Activities, then Tumblebooks to listen to great stories on your computer.

http://www.windsorpubliclibrary.com/

Have fun! See you next week:-)
Mrs. M.