Swansfield Welcomes Artist in Residence!

• We are excited to announce that a local visual artist, Tara Holl, will be in residence at Swansfield for the month of October, working with all 5th and 4th grade classes to produce a permanent art installation for the cafeteria. Ms. Holl, who specializes in mixed media and fused glass murals, has carried out dozens of school residencies over the last 10 years, including an outdoor mural at nearby Running Brook Elementary.
• Complementing Swansfield's Green School initiative, the mural produced by our students will focus on the ecology of the Chesapeake Bay and depict how our choices here -- in our school, in our homes, in our neighborhood -- can make a difference in protecting the beauty and bounty of the Bay. The mural will be painted in components on a variety of materials -- some new, some recycled -- and will be hung on the wall over the kitchen doors. Once finished, the "Swan Café" will be an even more inviting and inspirational place to eat and play!
• This residency is made possible by two generous grants from the Maryland State Arts Council and the Howard County Arts Council, by PTA Cultural Arts funds, and by donations of time and materials from Swansfield families. Next week, look for a flier with more details about how you can help with this project through volunteering time or passing on old paint!

Ugandan Drummer Ssuuna Helps Students "Come Together"!

• In our first cultural arts assembly for the year, African dancer and drummer Ssuuna will present a program called "Mujje: Come Together" for grades pre-K through 3rd on Wednesday, September 30 at 9 AM. Ssuuna weaves together stories with dance and music from his native Uganda played on authentic African instruments. Ssuuna's program emphasizes traditional values like respect and gratitude as they are passed on through song and story. Ask your child on Wednesday night what they liked best about the program -- and if they start drumming on all the furniture, you'll know where they got their inspiration!

The Ben Carson Reading Room Is Opening Soon!

• What is The Ben Carson Reading Room?
  It is a place where all of the students at Swansfield can go and relax while enjoying a great book! It is painted to look like the outdoors, with comfy bean bags for lounging, and many shelves filled with all types of books.
• What will my child read while in the reading room?
  There are many types of books and magazines available in the room, at all reading levels. Your child can choose whatever they want to read. If your child needs help locating an item of interest, a parent volunteer will offer help.
• How does my child get selected to use the reading room?
  In past years, students were scheduled by reaching preset reading goals. This year each teacher will have a predetermined day and time each week when they will alternate reading groups. This will allow every student an equal opportunity to enjoy this reading space. Some grades may offer additional time based upon teacher/grade incentives throughout the year.
• What if my child can't finish their selection?
  A "Save My Place" card can be filled out and left in the room so that your child can pick up where they left off on their next visit. Also, "Today I Read" bookmarks can be filled out and kept so that your child can locate the book at the Media Center or the local library.
• Will my child have to give up their lunch or recess?
  No, the selected times have been arranged around the daily activities of each grade.
• Want to volunteer in the Carson Reading Room?
  This relaxing environment where our students can grab a beanbag and a great book is in need of volunteers. Come and help us create a warm atmosphere where reading for fun is the goal! Please contact Cindy Garrison: Cindylouwho8812@yahoo.com