Hello Upham Community,

I recently spent some time observing some of our fourth graders working on math. I noticed a particular student working diligently and showing some frustration. Moving closer I could see the student was working through the problem and actually doing well. I asked them if they were having any problems. The student quickly retorted, “I am so stupid.” Now, I have heard all sorts of complaints and comments from students, and yet, this time I was shocked. Students are anything but “stupid.” It was hard to hear and I reflected on the comment before finally reaching out to the student and demonstratively telling them, “You are not stupid!” “There are many people here that will help you accomplish wonderful things.” “Everyone needs help, everyone.” “Never forget that!” It reminded me of this story that I wanted to share.

Wishing to encourage her young son’s progress on the piano, a mother took her boy to a Paderewski concert. After they were seated, the mother spotted an old friend in the audience and walked down the aisle to greet her. Seizing the opportunity to explore the wonders of the concert hall, the little boy rose and eventually explored his way through a door marked “NO ADMITTANCE.”

When the house lights dimmed and the concert was about to begin, the mother returned to her seat and discovered that the child was missing. Suddenly, the curtains parted and spotlights focused on the impressive Steinway on stage. In horror, the mother saw her little boy sitting at the keyboard, innocently picking out “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.”

At that moment, the great piano master made his entrance, quickly moved to the piano, and whispered in the boy’s ear, “Don’t quit.” “Keep playing.”

Then, leaning over, Paderewski reached down with his left hand and began filling in a bass part. Soon his right arm reached around to the other side of the child, and he added a running obbligato. Together, the old master and the young novice transformed what could have been a frightening situation into a wonderfully creative experience. The audience was so mesmerized that they couldn’t recall what else the great master played. Only the classic, “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.”

Perhaps that is the way it is with all of us. We all need help at certain times. We can try our best and sometimes without help the results aren’t always graceful flowing music. However, with the hand of a Master, our life’s work can truly be beautiful. Now, I am not in any way professing to be a master. What I am exposing is this (to you and your children):

The next time you set out to accomplish great feats, listen carefully. You may hear the voice of the Master, whispering in your ear, “Don’t quit.” “Keep playing.”

From the Desk of Nurse Warmington

Masks

Please make sure your child has extra masks (2-3) each day in their backpack. Please inform your child where they can find them in their backpack. Many of our students have masks packed but don’t know where to look for them. Please make sure your child’s mask fits–has one that is snug and covers their nose and mouth completely! 

Water Bottles Please remind your child to bring a reusable water bottle with them every day. The hydration station is open for water bottle refills. We want to be environmentally proactive at Upham. Please help us, hydrate our students and save the environment. 

 

Thank you for allowing us to influence your wonderful children. What an honor it is!

Your support is welcomed and greatly appreciated.

Dare to Dream,

Mr. Dees

Upcoming Dates

Wednesday, November 24- Early Dismissal

Thursday and Friday, November 25/26- NO SCHOOL Thanksgiving Recess

Monday, November 29- NO SCHOOL Teacher Professional Day

 

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