by Don Davis
Your Community Representative of the Shared Decision Making Team 

Secret Santa Shop
 Last month, the Parents Group sponsored the Secret Santa Shop. All the students had a chance to shop for their parents, brothers, sisters, or friends. They sold a lot of great gifts, and the children enjoyed shopping. Chairpersons of the event were Cathy and Scott Fairbanks. Many thanks to the parents who helped run the Santa Shop.

Winter Concert
 Don't forget that the Winter Concert is Wednesday, December 5, at 7:00 pm. The school band and chorus will perform. We expect a full house, so come early.

From the Principal's Desk
by Mr. Chilson

 As we begin the month of December, the children of Apalachin Elementary School have been very busy!

 The children are having a wonderful time with our second, brand new playground. Our first playground, "Rocket City," was opened in October. The second playground, "Cyber Shock," was ready for use at the beginning of November. Both playgrounds are of superior quality and offer the children several physically challenging, enjoyable play opportunities.

 As we enter the holiday season, the spirit of giving and caring abounds through the halls of AES. Locally, the children have already donated many, many items to the Lions Club Food and Toy collection. Nationally, we have collected dollars for the children of Afghanistan, as requested by President George Bush. In weeks to come, the children will be assembling holiday wreaths for the many service organizations that provide support for the Apalachin Community.

 As a gesture of support for our American troops in Afghanistan, the students were asked to bring in pictures of local service men and women to display. The support has been tremendous as several service men and women adorn the walls of AES as a reminder of their bravery and patriotism.

 Best wishes from the staff of AES for a safe and Happy Holiday Season!