Class Four News

Class Four Announcements

List of 9 items.

  • 25-26 Uniforms

    We've heard from parents that you would like a clear example of which uniforms will be acceptable next year so that you can plan and purchase accordingly. While detailed information will always be in the handbook, we created THIS handout, which has pictures that you may find helpful.

    Additionally, Flynn O'Hara is hosting a uniform fitting event and sale at their Houston Store on June 16th. See THIS flyer for details.

  • April Bridge Book Discussion Questions

    We are excited to continue our Community and Inclusion initiative in Lower School, Building Bridges with Books, with our third and final selection for this school year. This program fosters a sense of unity and understanding among our students by exploring diverse perspectives through literature. Every Lower School faculty member will receive a copy of the featured Bridge Book for their classroom, creating a shared reading experience within our community.

    Our April Bridge Book is We Are Definitely Human by X. Fang, a hilarious alien invasion story with a feel-good message about what it means to be human. Here are some talking points you might use to engage your child with We Are Definitely Human:
    • What do the Lis learn about acceptance and kindness from their visitors?
    • Have you ever felt alone or "alien"? How did you handle it?
    • How can you make others feel welcome?
    We hope this book sparks meaningful conversations in our Lower School community!

  • Books and Breakfast

    All Class Four and Five students are invited to join Books and Breakfast, which meets before school on Day 7. Watch for a permission slip and more information to come home soon!

  • Class 4 Chapel Leaders

    After Spring Break, Class Four students will take over as leaders during our Chapel services. Students who are chosen to be a reader or an acolyte will be notified 24-48 hours in advance. Parents are always welcome to join us for Chapel and find a seat in the balcony.

  • Important Dates

    Important dates for Class Four will be listed here for you to mark your calendar.
    We kindly request that the events marked with an asterisk * are only attended by those parents who have signed up.
    • 5/8/25: St. John's Singers Spring Show @ 2pm
    • 5/9/25: St. John's Singers Spring Show @ 7pm
    • 5/21/25: LS Closing Celebration @ 8:45am in Lowe Theater

  • Library Updates

    ALL Library books are due to the library by May 9th. Thank you for helping your child remember to bring in any books they've checked out by this date.
    Clear off your shelves at home to make way for new summer reading books! The LS Library will be hosting a used book swap May 12th-20th. Students will receive a ticket for each book they donate to the swap (up to 5 books). These tickets may be redeemed for books before school (7:45-8:15), after school (3:15-3:40), or during library classes. Book swap tables will be located on the second floor landing directly outside the LS Library.

  • Maverick Madness Spirit Day (5/20/25)

    Our next Maverick Madness Spirit Day will be on Tuesday, May 20th. Students may wear as much red, black, and SJS gear as possible, or they may wear their normal uniform. Please see pages 31 of the Lower School Handbook for specific guidelines for out-of-uniform dress.

  • Social-Emotional Learning

    During the month of May, our Sharing Circle topics will revolve around communication and creation with self and others. Three of our topic threads are focused on learning about and practicing healthy decision-making and boundaries, revisiting our Lower School theme of Communication, and sharing our school year celebrations. 
     
    Books:
    • The Not-So-Friendly Friend by Christina Furnival
    • Communication Ninja by Mary Nhin
    • A Spot of Celebration by Diane Alber
     
    Table Talk Discussions: 
    • What does it mean to set boundaries? What does it mean to advocate for yourself?
    • Is communication just words? 
    • What is something that you feel proud of this school year? Have you achieved any of the goals you set for yourself?
     
    K-5 Healthy Decision-Making & Puberty Resources: 

  • Summer Science Pet Sitters Needed!

    Host a Science Star This Summer!

    Frank the Corn Snake, Gus the Tree Frog, and Buster the Fat-Tailed Gecko are looking for awesome families to host them over summer break!
    They’re low-maintenance, come fully equipped with their own cages and simple care guides, and make the perfect "practice pets" for kids learning responsibility.

    They may not be soft and fluffy, but Frank, Gus, and Buster bring tons of personality (and are way easier than cleaning up after a puppy)!
    If your family would like to give one of them a summer home, contact Mr. Hunger by Friday, May 16th at chunger@sjs.org .

    These science lab legends are ready to move in!

Class Four Curriculum Snapshots

List of 11 items.

  • Math

    • Multiplying multi-digit decimal numbers using area models, number bonds, partial products, and the standard algorithm
    • Knowing relative sizes of measurement units within one system of units, and converting units of measurement within the same system.
    • Using the four operations to solve word problems involving distances, liquid volumes, masses of objects, and money, including problems involving fractions or decimals and problems that require converting measurements within the customary and metric systems.

  • Language Arts

    • Curating virtual museums of historical fiction books to demonstrate an understanding of historical settings and their impact on characters, plots, and themes
    • Adapting picture books into reader’s theater scripts to strengthen summarizing, sequencing, and dialogue development skills
    • Practicing the conventions of punctuating dialogue in writing

  • Social Studies

    • Exploring how our nation's history shapes our responsibilities and rights as citizens
    • Understanding how the structure and functions of government impact our daily lives

  • Science

    • Programming robots using Lego Mindstorms EV3
    • Debugging code and solving problems to improve robot performance and achieve task goals
    • Working collaboratively in groups by contributing ideas, listening to others, and supporting teammates

  • Skills

    • Organizing their Google Drive
    • Emptying out & cleaning their backpacks (They will use the same one in Class 5.)

  • Spanish

    • Recognizing what language has been acquired throughout the school year
    • Showcasing understanding of our class novel through independent reading and student-led presentations

  • Art

    • Completing Collaborative Mixed Media Posters: Working in groups to create large posters with a theme of celebration
    • Intro to basic paper-folding techniques
    • Practicing following step-by-step instructions to transform flat paper into 3-dimensional forms

  • Music

    • Discovering single 8th notes in syncopated rhythms
    • Learning recorder melodies to fun games and songs
    • Continuing to build familiarity with songs that have a la tonal center

  • Library

    • Enjoying our favorite books of the school year and creating bookmarks

  • Tech Lab

    • Experiencing a free choice of tools and software we used this year to expand our knowledge of their applications

  • P.E.

    • Playing outdoor recreational games to prep for summer FUN
    • Reviewing skills practiced throughout the year in games and tournaments

Key Contacts

List of 10 items.

Resources

Links

  • Common Sense Media
    If in doubt, check it out! A great resource to check the age appropriateness of books, movies, apps, games  and other media is Common Sense Media. In addition to reviews they address issues associated with the use of all kinds of media.
     

St. John's School

|   2401 Claremont Lane Houston, TX 77019   |   713-850-0222
© 2018 St. John’s School. All Rights Reserved.