Dairy Queen Fundraiser
We will be participating in a Dairy Queen Fundraiser on May 7^th.  You may dine-in or order carry-out from 4-8 pm on May 7^th .  A  portion of your sales will be contributed to the preschool.  This offer is good at the Dairy Queen located at 411 N Veteran’s Parkway across from Cub Foods.  No flier needed.  You will need to put your receipt in the Shining Lights Preschool container at Dairy Queen after you pay for your order.

Fun Day at Tipton Park
Our Fun Day at Tipton Park is scheduled for Thursday, May 9th. Please see attached note for details.

Graduation
The 4’s class graduation ceremonies will take place on Friday, May 17^th.  The morning class ceremony will be held at 6:00 p.m.  The afternoon class ceremony will be at 7:30 p.m.

Registration for the 2013-2014 School Year
If you are planning on having your child attend Shining Lights Preschool next year and you haven’t registered yet, please see me to register your child.

If your child will be returning to Shining Lights in the fall, information about open house, a calendar, a supply list will be mailed to you over the summer.  You should receive it by August 1^st.  The first day of preschool will be September 3^rd.

Vacation Bible School
Christ Lutheran Church invites children ages 4 years olds through 6^th grade to attend Vacation Bible School on August 4-8 from 6:00-8:15 p.m.  At Kingdom Rock Bible School, kids discover how to stand strong for God!  Kingdom Rock is filled with incredible Bible learning experiences kids see, hear, touch and even taste.  They will hear about God’s incredible love for us through His Son, Jesus Christ.   Registration will be coming in late June.  If you are interested, please contact Christy Malinowski at dcewager@hotmail.com.

Thank you!
Thank you for being a part of Shining Lights Preschool!  I enjoyed watching the children learn and grow.  It was a pleasure to serve you and your family!  Have a fun and safe summer!

Sincerely,
Joan Birdsong

April News

“Donut” Forget to Read!
Thank you so much for reading with your children at home!  Lots of sprinkles were placed on the donut in the hallway!  We will celebrate all of the reading we have accomplished by having a donut party on April 2^nd!  We will eat donuts, play games and each child will receive a new bo

Avanti’s Fundraiser
We will be participating in the Avanti’s Dine to Donate program on Wednesday, April 10^th from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm.  Feel free to invite your friends and family to dine-in, carryout or have food delivered on this day.  20% of your food and beverage subtotal will be donated to Shining Lights.  Please present flier when ordering. This offer will be honored at both locations——407 S. Main in Normal and 3302 E Empire in Bloomington.  Fliers are available at school.

Tuition
Tuition payments are due April 2nd.  Tuition is $110.00.  This is your last tuition payment for the 2012-2013 school year!  Please make checks payable to Shining Lights Preschool.  We appreciate your prompt payments!

Love and Logic
A Love and Logic workshop is available for parents to attend on Saturday, April 20, 2013 from 9:30-12:30 at the Baby Fold Training Center, 612 Oglesby Ave, Normal.  Cost is $10 per person or $15 per couple.  You may pay at the door.  Babysitting is available at no extra cost.  Sign up for babysitting starts March 1^st.  Reservations: please call Julie at 309-451-7128 or jstoll@thebabyfold.org

Facebook
Shining Lights Preschool is now on Facebook.  Please visit our page and like us!

 Shining Lights Preschool Registration for the 2013-2014 School Year
It’s not too late! We still have openings for the 2013-2014 school year!  Please see me if you would like to register.

Kindergarten Registration
Kindergarten Registration for District 87 will take place on various days from April10th-24th.  Please visit their website at www.district87.org for more information. Please call for an appointment.  Parents should bring the child’s certified birth certificate, current immunization and health records and proof of residency.  Your child should attend registration with you.

April 10^th-Washington School 829-7034

April 18^th-Irving School 827-8091

April 10^th-Stevenson School 663-2351

April 18^th-Oakland School 662-4302

April 23^rd & 24th-Sheridan School 828-2359

April 19^th-Bent School 828-4315

Trinity Lutheran School
If you are interested in sending your child to Trinity Lutheran School for K-8, please call 829-7513 or visit their website at www.trinitylutheranlcms.org.  We also have information packets available on the preschool cart.

Recycling
If you have items to be recycled, we collect the following items as part of the Eco Recycling Fundraiser:  cell phones (please no chargers or accessories), inkjet cartridges (ones that contained liquid, not powder), MP3 Players, digital cameras, handheld game systems, laptop computers, ipads and tablets, portable GPS devices, radar detectors, E-Book readers, and graphing calculators.

Labels for Education
We collect Labels for Education and in return we will receive items for the students to use at our school.  Please save your labels and place them in the container by my office.  Please include the UPC code with the label.

Office Depot
If you shop at Office Depot and would like to support the preschool, please present this ID # 70200154 at check out.  5% of your qualifying purchases will be donated to the preschool account to help us purchase supplies.

Looking Ahead…

April 10^th- 4’s Class Graduation Pictures

April 17^th-4’s Class Field trip

April 24^th-3’s Class Field trip

May 7^th- Dairy Queen Fundraiser

May 9^th-Fun Day

May 16^th-Last Day of Preschool

May 17^th-4’s Class Graduation

6:00 p.m. ceremony for the AM class

7:30 p.m. ceremony for the PM class

March News!    

Thank you!
Thank you for participating in the Rosati’s Fundraiser on February 7^th!  We appreciate your support!

Tuition
Tuition payments are due March 5^th.  Tuition is $110.00.  Please make checks payable to Shining Lights Preschool.  We appreciate your prompt payments.
Spring Break            No Preschool on March 27, 28, 29

Reading Program
On March 5^th we will begin a reading program encouraging families to read at home!  Our program is called “Donut” Forget to Read!  From March 5th-March 21^st, please read 10 books to your child at home.  Each time you complete a book, fill out the “sprinkle” attached to this newsletter, color it, cut it out, and tape it on the donut on the wall in the preschool hallway. Have fun reading! We will have donuts at snack time when we return from spring break on April 2^nd to celebrate all the reading we have accomplished!

Vision and Hearing Screenings
The Mc Lean County Health Department will be conducting vision and hearing screenings for our preschoolers on March 20^th.  The screenings will take place during regular school hours at Shining Lights.

Kindergarten Registration
Kindergarten Registration for Unit 5 will be held on Tuesday, March 20^th.  For more information, please see the preschool bulletin board or visit  www.unit5.org  Kindergarten Registration for District 87 will take place on a various dates in April.  Please go to their website at www.district87.org for more information.  When you go to kindergarten registration, will need to bring the following: your child and a certified copy of the birth certificate. Before school begins, a physical examination form, dental form and vision form will need to be turned in.

Shining Lights Preschool Registration for the 2013-2014 School Year
Please tell your friends and family that registration is now in progress!  There is an $85.00 registration fee due at the time of registration.  Classes will meet on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.  The morning class will meet from 8:45-11:00 and the afternoon class will meet from 12:15-2:30.

Christ Lutheran Church Easter Egg Hunt
You are invited to attend the church Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 30th from 9:30-11:00.  This event includes coloring eggs, making a craft Christ Lutheran Church and snack, hearing the Easter story, playing games and hunting for eggs.  Please see the sign-up sheet in the hallway.  All children who attend must be accompanied by a supervised adult.  This is a FREE activity.  Please feel free to bring your own basket for hunting eggs.  This activity will take place rain or shine!

Love and Logic for Parents
A Love and Logic packet was sent home at parent teacher conferences.  If you are interested in learning more about Love and Logic, a workshop is available for parents to attend on Saturday, April 20, 2013 from 9:30-12:30 at the Baby Fold Training Center, 612 Oglesby Ave, Normal.  Cost is $10 per person or $15 per couple.  You may pay at the door.  Babysitting is available at no extra cost.  Sign up for babysitting starts March 1^st.  Reservations: please call Julie at 309-451-7128 or jstoll@thebabyfold.org.

Labels For Education
Please keep saving the UPC Code on Labels for Education products.  Please see the list of participating products on the next page.  Also, if you have a Kroger or Jewel-Osco card you can register your card online by going to www.elabelsaddup.com and select Shining Lights Preschool as the school you would like to assist.  Every time you purchase a qualifying item we will earn points.  After using the product, simply cut off the label and return it to the collection container by  substitute for a complete eye and vision evaluation by an eye doctor

Kindergarten Registration
Kindergarten Registration for Unit 5 will be held on Tuesday, March 20^th.  For more information, please see the preschool bulletin board or visit  www.unit5.org Kindergarten Registration for District 87 will take place on a various dates in April.  Please go to their website at www.district87.org for more information.  When you go to kindergarten registration, will need to bring the following: your child and a certified copy of the birth certificate. Before school begins, a physical examination form, dental form and vision form will need to be turned in.

Shining Lights Preschool Registration for the 2013-2014 School Year
Please tell your friends and family that registration is now in progress!  There is an $85.00 registration fee due at the time of registration.  Classes will meet on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.  The morning class will meet from 8:45-11:00 and the afternoon class will meet from 12:15-2:30.

Christ Lutheran Church Easter Egg Hunt
You are invited to attend the church Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 30th from 9:30-11:00.  This event includes coloring eggs, making a craft Christ Lutheran Church and snack, hearing the Easter story, playing games and hunting for eggs.  Please see the sign-up sheet in the hallway.  All children who attend must be accompanied by a supervised adult.  This is a FREE activity.  Please feel free to bring your own basket for hunting eggs.  This activity will take place rain or shine!

 Love and Logic for Parents
A Love and Logic packet was sent home at parent teacher conferences.  If you are interested in learning more about Love and Logic, a workshop is available for parents to attend on Saturday, April 20, 2013 from 9:30-12:30 at the Baby Fold Training Center, 612 Oglesby Ave, Normal.  Cost is $10 per person or $15 per couple.  You may pay at the door.  Babysitting is available at no extra cost.  Sign up for babysitting starts March 1^st.  Reservations: please call Julie at 309-451-7128 or jstoll@thebabyfold.org.

Labels For Education
Please keep saving the UPC Code on Labels for Education products.  Please see the list of participating products on the next page.  Also, if you have a Kroger or Jewel-Osco card you can register your card online by going to www.elabelsaddup.com and select Shining Lights Preschool as the school you would like to assist.  Every time you purchase a qualifying item we will earn points.  After using the product, simply cut off the label and return it to the collection container by the church office.  This helps us earn additional points.

February News

Lutheran Schools Week
We’ve had a really fun week at school!  For those families that plan on attending the Saturday evening worship service on February 2^nd, please bring your child to his or her classroom at 5:15.  Parents, please find your seat in the sanctuary.  The service will begin at 5:30.  The children will join you in your seat after they sing.  Thank you for all the cookie donations!

Rosati’s Fundraiser
On Thursday, February 7^th, we will be participating in a Rosati’s Fundraiser located at 1720 Bradford Lane in Normal.  25% of dine-in orders and 20% of carry-out orders will be donated to Shining Lights Preschool.  The Zoo Lady will offer face painting from 5-7 pm.  Please invite your family and friends to order out or eat at Rosati’s on this day.  Rosati’s is open from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.  No voucher is needed–just mention Shining Lights Preschool when ordering.  This offer is good at the Normal location only.

 Valentine’s Parties!
Our Valentine’s Parties will take place in the classrooms on Thursday, February 14th.  We will have regular class on this day.  The morning party will start at 10:15.  The afternoon party will start at 1:45.  If you would like to help with the parties, please sign up in the classroom.  Please bring a valentine for every child in the class.  Your child’s name needs to be written on each valentine in the “from” section.  Please do not write names in the “to” section on the valentine.  It is more fun for the children to deliver their valentines if they do not have to match the correct name with the correct bag.  In the 3’s room there are 12 children in the morning and 12 children in the afternoon.  In the 4’s room, there are 19 children in the morning and 16 children in the afternoon.

School Closing Information
When school is closed due to inclement weather it will be announced on WJBC (1230 AM), WBNQ (101.5 FM), and B-104 (104.1 FM).  It will also be announced on NBC 25/HOI-19.  You can also find school closings on these websites:  www.wjbc.com, www.wbnq.com, www.wbwn.com, and www.centralillinoisnewscenter.com.  Whenever Unit 5 Schools are closed,Shining Lights Preschoolis closed too.  I will also try to send out an email as soon as I know about the school closing.

Tuition
Tuition payments are due Tuesday, February 5th.  Please make checks payable to Shining Lights Preschool.  Tuition is $110.00.  We appreciate your prompt payments!

Registration for the 2013-2014 School Year
Please tell your friends and family that registration is now in progress!  There is an $85.00 registration fee due at the time of registration.

Classes will meet on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.  The morning class will meet from 8:45-11:00 and the afternoon class will meet from 12:15-2:30.

Kindergarten Registration
Kindergarten Registration for Unit 5 will be held on Tuesday, March 19th.  4’s/Pre-K class-please see attached flier for more information.  Kindergarten Registration for District 87 is usually in April.  I will let you know when I find out about the specific dates.

Labels for Education
Please keep saving the UPC code on Labels for Education products.  Sometimes in the Sunday Pantagraph coupon section you will find an insert for Labels for Education Bonus Points.  If you see one, please bring it in and we will be able to collect extra points.  Also, if you have a Kroger or Jewel-Osco card, you can register your card online at www.elabelsforeducation.com and select Shining Lights Preschool as the school you would like to assist.  Every time you purchase a qualifying item we will earn points.

Office Depot 5% Back to Schools Program
If you shop at Office Depot and would like to support the preschool, please present this ID # 70200154 at check out.  5 % of your qualifying purchases will be donated to the preschool account to help us purchase supplies.

Eco Recycling
We collect the following items to be recycled:  cell phones (please no chargers or accessories), inkjet cartridges (liquid, not powder), MP3 Players, digital camera, handheld game systems, laptop computers, ipads and tablets, portable GPS devices, radar detectors, E-Book readers, and graphing calculators.

Looking Ahead…

Rosati’s Fundraiser- Feb 7^th at

Normal location only

Free face painting from 5-7pm

 No Preschool—Feb 19^th and 20th due to parent teacher conferences

Dental Care Lesson– Feb 21^st  Presented by Heidi German, nurse consultant from CCRRN

March 20^th-Vision and Hearing Screenings at preschool

No Preschool –Mar 26, 27, 28 due to Spring Break

January News—-Welcome Back!

I hope everyone had a wonderful time with friends and family over break.  We are excited to be back in school!

School Closing
When school is closed due to inclement weather it will be announced on WJBC (1230 AM), WBNQ (101.5) FM), and B-104 (104.1 FM).  It will also be announced on NBC 25/HOI-19.  You can also find school closings on these websites:  www.wjbc.com, www.wbnq.com, www.wbwn.com, and www.centralillinoisnewscenter.com.

Whenever Unit 5 Schools are closed,Shining Lights Preschoolis closed too.  I will also try to send out an email as soon as I know about the school closing.

Thank you!
Thank you so much for donating winter items for boys and girls in need.   The Baby Fold was very appreciative of your donations.

Also, thank you so much for all the donations we received for the Christmas party.  We really appreciate all the contributions.  We are glad so many guests were able to join us for the Christmas Party!
Help Us Stay Healthy!
Please keep in mind that frequent hand washing reduces the spread of germs.  Also, if your child is ill, he or she must stay home until he or she is well again. Please refer to preschool handbook for more specific information. To report an absence, please call 452-5609 X 3 or send an email to us at ashiningstart@frontier.com.
Labels for Education
Please keep saving the UPC Code on Labels for Education products. You may place the labels in the box on the cart in the preschool hallway.

Eco Recycling Fundraiser
If you have items to be recycled, we  collect the following items as part of the Eco Recycling Fundraiser:  cell phones (please no chargers or accessories), inkjet cartridges (ones that contained liquid, not powder), MP3 Players, digital cameras, handheld game systems, laptop computers, ipads and tablets, portable GPS devices, radar detectors, E-Book readers, and graphing calculators.

Office Depot 5% Back to Schools Program
If you shop at Office Depot and would like to support the preschool, please present this ID # 70200154 at check out.  5% of your qualifying purchases will be donated to the preschool account to help us purchase supplies.

Tuition
Tuition payments of $110.00 are due on Tuesday,  January 8^th.   Please make checks payable to Shining Lights Preschool.  We appreciate your prompt payments!  If you are unable to bring your check in, please mail it to:  Shining Lights Preschool, 311 N Hershey Rd, Normal, IL 61761.

Prayer Calendars
You will find a prayer calendar attached to this newsletter.   It has been a very valuable tool to help guide my prayer time for my children on a daily basis.   I hope you find it helpful too!
Registration for the 2013-2014 School Year
Registration will begin on Wednesday, January 9th at 8:30 a.m. for families who are currently enrolled, alumni families, and Christ Lutheran Church members.

On January 16th, registration is open to the public at 8:30 a.m.

There is an $85.00 registration fee due at the time of registration.

Tuition for both classes will be  $1035.00 for the entire school year or 9 payments of $115.00 year. Classes will meet on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from September through May from 8:45-11:00 and 12:15-2:30.

I have plenty of extra registration packets if you need more for friends!
Lutheran Schools Week
Lutheran Schools Week is early this year!  It will be celebrated January 27^th-February 2^nd.  More information about this special week will be coming home soon!  Please mark your calendars to join Christ Lutheran Church on Saturday, February 2^nd for the 5:30 evening worship service (preschoolers will sing during the service) and pizza party immediately following the service.

Field Trips
Please make your calendar!  More information and permission slips will be coming home closer to the date.

3’s class–March 13^th
Normal Public Library 9:15-11:00 and 12:45-2:30

3’s class—April 24^th Miller Park Zoo 9:00-11:00 and 12:30-2:30

4’s/Pre-K class–March 6^th Rising Stars Academy 9:00-10:45 and 12:30-2:15

4’s/Pre-K class–April 17^th Schnuck’s and Rosati’s in Normal 9:00-11:00 and 12:30-2:30

Looking Ahead— January 9^th-Registration at 8:30 for current and alumni families, Christ Lutheran Church members

January 16^th-Registration is open to the public at 8:30

January 22^nd-No Preschool-Unit 5 Teacher Inservice

January 29th- 31st –Lutheran Schools Week

February 2^nd-Children will be singing in the 5:30 Saturday evening church service/ pizza party immediately following service
February 7^th—Rosati’s Pizza Fundraiser-Normal location only

February 14^th–Valentine Parties 10:15 and 1:45

February 19^th and 20^th–No Preschool Parent Teacher Conferences

December
December will be full of many fun Christmas activities.  We are excited about sharing the Christmas story with the preschoolers and celebrating the Birth of Jesus!

Tuition
Tuition payments of $110.00 are due on or before Tuesday, December 4^th.  Please place your tuition in the box on the cart in the hallway by the director’s office.  We appreciate your prompt payments!  Please make checks payable to Shining Lights Preschool.  If you are unable to bring your check in, you may mail it to:  Shining Lights Preschool, 311 N Hershey Rd, Normal, IL 61761.

Thank You!
We are thankful for the grandparents and special guests that attended our program on November 13^th!  It was a blessing to share this special day with them!

Ministry & More
Ministry & More is very thankful for all the food donations they received from the food drive.  They appreciate our help!  They were able to provide food items to those in need.

Sharing Joys
The morning classes will have the opportunity to sing for the Sharing Joys Senior Citizen group at church during preschool on December 11th.

Giving Tree
Please feel free to place hats, scarves, gloves and mittens on the Christmas tree located in the preschool hallway.  We will donate these items to The Baby Fold.  The Baby Fold will distribute these items to boys and girls in need.  The Baby Fold would like to have our donations by December 12^th.

Journey to the Manger
Christ Lutheran Church would like to invite you to “Journey to the Manger” on Sunday, December 9^th.  You can take a FREE guided 20-minute walking tour and experience “The Journey” Mary and Joseph took so many years ago.  This tour features live drama, animals and singing.  “Journeys” begin inside every 15 minutes between 5:00-7:30.  This event is for all ages to enjoy.  Free cookies and hot chocolate will be available.  Meals are also available for purchase between 4:30-7:00.

Preschool Christmas Parties
Christmas parties will take place on Thursday, December 20th.   We will have regular class time at the beginning of the day.  Parents, grandparents and siblings are welcome to attend. The program begins at 10:00 for the morning class and 1:30 for the afternoon class in the church sanctuary.  The children will sing for you and we will present the Christmas story.  After the Christmas Program in the sanctuary, please join us in the fellowship hall for cookies and lemonade.  If you would like to donate cookies, plates, or napkins, please sign up on the sheet in the hallway.  The children do not exchange gifts at the party.

Inclement Weather/School Closing Information
 When school is closed due to inclement weather it will be announced on WJBC (1230 AM), WBNQ (101.5 FM), and  B-104 (104.1 FM) .  It will also be announced on NBC 25/HOI-19.  You can also find school closings on these websites:  www.wjbc.com, www.wbnq.com, www.wbwn.com, www.centralillinoisnewscenter.com.  Whenever Unit 5 Schools are closed, Shining Lights Preschool is closed too.  I will also try to send out an email to everyone as soon as I know about the closing.
Labels for Education
Please keep saving the UPC Code on Labels for Education products.  Also, if you have a Kroger or Jewel-Osco card you can register your card online by going to www.elabelsaddup.com and select Shining Lights Preschool as the school you would like to assist.  Every time you purchase a qualifying item we will earn points.  After using the product, simply cut off the label and return it to the collection container by the church office.  This helps us earn additional points.
Eco Recycling Fundraiser
If you have items to be recycled, we collect the following items to be recycles: cell phones (please no chargers and accessories), ink jet cartridges (ones that contain liquid, not powder), MP3 Players, digital cameras, handheld game systems, laptop computers, ipads and tablets, portable GPS devices, radar detectors, E-Book readers, and graphing calculators.
Registration for the 2013-2014  School Year
Registration will begin on Wednesday, January 9th at 8:30 a.m. for students who are currently enrolled, their siblings, alumni families, and Christ Lutheran Church members.

On Wednesday, January 16^th at 8:30, registration is open to the public.  There is an $85.00 registration fee.  Tuition for both classes will be $1035.00 for the entire year or 9 payments of $115.00.  Classes will meet on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from September through May.  The morning class will meet from 8:45-11:00 and the afternoon class will meet from 12:15-2:30.  Please feel free to visit us at www.shininglightspreschool.com.  Registration packets will be available online and at school soon!
A Christmas Idea for You
If you have a lot of Christmas books at your house and wrapping paper scraps, you might want to try this.  Wrap up each book.  Then each day in December unwrap a Christmas book and read it together as a family.
Merry Christmas!
Our last day of school in 2012 will be Thursday, December 20^th.  Then we will see you back at school on Tuesday, January 8th, 2013.  Please remember to watch for school closings in case of inclement weather!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Food Drive
Ministry & More is an organization located in Bloomington that helps those in need.  We will be collecting non-perishable foods at preschool for this ministry. If you would like to help out, please bring your donations to your child’s classroom by Tuesday, November 20th.  Thanks for helping!

Tuition
Tuition payments of $110.00 are due on or before Tuesday, November 6th.  Please place your tuition in the box on the cart in the hallway by the director’s office.  We appreciate your prompt payments.  Please make checks payable to Shining Lights Preschool.

Thank you!
Thank you for supporting the Monical’s Pizza Community Day Fundraiser on October 23^rd. Thank you to everyone who helped out at the Fall Parties and donated items!  We appreciate all the support!

Grandparent or Special Friend Day
Grandparent or Special Friend Day is Tuesday, November 13^th.   If your child’s grandparents are unable to attend, your child may invite a special friend to come on this day.

The times are 10:15-11:00 for the AM Class and 1:45-2:30 for the PM Class.  When grandparents or special friends arrive, they will check in at the front table and then find a seat in the fellowship hall.  The children will sing for them.  After they sing, we will have a special story, refreshments, visit the classroom and participate in crafts.

Labels for Education
We are still collecting Labels for Education.  If you are saving labels, please be sure the UPC Code is on the label.  Recently, we were able to purchase a microscope, magnifying glasses and small white boards to practice writing.  We have a new collection box on the cart in the preschool hallway for all the labels!

Eco Recycling Fundraiser
If you have items to be recycled, we collect the following items in the container by the church office, as part of the Eco Recycling Fundraiser:  cell phones (please no chargers and accessories), ink jet cartridges (ones that contain liquid, not powder), MP3 Players, digital cameras, handheld game systems, laptop computers, ipads and tablets, portable GPS devices, radar detectors, E-Book readers, and graphing calculators.

 Inclement Weather/School Closing Information
When school is closed due to inclement weather it will be announced on WJBC (1230 AM), WBNQ (101.5) FM), and B-104 (104.1 FM).  It will also be announced on NBC 25/HOI-19.  You can also find school closings on these websites:  www.wjbc.com, www.wbnq.com, www.wbwn.com, and www.centralillinoisnewscenter.com.

Whenever Unit 5 Schools are closed,Shining Lights Preschoolis closed too.  I will also try to send out an email as soon as I know about the school closing.
Staying Healthy!
Please keep in mind that frequent hand washing reduces the spreading of germs.  Also, please remember if your child is ill, he or she must stay home until her or she is well again.

How Much Sleep Do Children Need?
Have you ever had concerns about your child’s behavior?  Have you ever considered if he or she might not  be getting enough sleep?  Some basic guidelines can be found on this website: www.webd.com/parenting/guide/sleep-children          

Looking Ahead
Nov. 1st—Progress Reports sent home

Nov. 13^th—Grandparent or Special Friend Day at 10:15 and 1:45

Nov. 20th^—Thanksgiving Feast for preschool children

Nov. 21^st-22nd—No Preschool-Happy Thanksgiving!

Dec. 20th—Christmas Parties at 10:00 and 1:30

Dec. 25th-Jan 7th-No School!  Enjoy your Christmas Break!

Jan. 8^th—First day back to school in 2013

Contact Information
Questions, Concerns, or to Report an Absence:  Please call 452-5609 X 3 or send an email to Joan at ashiningstart@frontier.com.

Sometimes I am in the classrooms or at a meeting so if you need to give us an urgent message during school hours, and you are unable to reach us at 452-5609 X 3,

Please call:  452-5609 X 2.  The church secretary will get the message to us.

Tuition
Third installment tuition payments of $110.00 are due on or before Tuesday, October 2nd.  Please place your tuition payment in the box on the cart in the hallway.  We appreciate your prompt payments.  If you are unable to bring your check in, you may mail it to: Shining Lights Preschool, 311 N Hershey Rd, Normal, IL 61761.

Emails and Updated Information
Frequently I send out email updates to all the preschool families.  If you have not received any emails from me, please make sure I have your current email address on file.  If you move or change phone numbers during the school year please inform us as soon as possible so we know how to contact you.

Website and Facebook

Please visit our website

www.shininglightspreschool.com and our facebook page.  Like us on Facebook!

Birthday Treats
If you would like to bring treats for your child’s birthday, feel free to contact me about a month before your child’s birthday.  All treats brought to school must arrive unopened and packaged by the store or bakery.  If you would like to bring juice, it needs to be 100% juice.  Due to food allergies in our school, all treats may not contain any type of nuts or bananas.

 Hand-washing Activity
Heidi German, a nurse consultant from the Child Care Resource and Referral Network, is coming to our preschool on October 24^th, to discuss proper hand-washing techniques with the children.

Fire Safety
On October 3rd, Matt Swaney, a firefighter from a Normal fire station will be visiting our preschool to help us learn about fire safety.

Fall Parties

Fall Parties will take place on Wednesday, October 31st.  Please have your child arrive at preschool in his or her costume for the day.  We will have regular class on this day until the parade begins at 10:15 for the morning class and 1:45 for the afternoon class.
The children will parade around the inside of the church building in their costumes.  You are welcome to watch from the lobby areas as the preschoolers parade through the church collecting candy from the church staff.   After the parade, the children will have a class party.  The teachers will provide more information about the parties soon.

Monical’s Pizza Fundraiser

On Tuesday, October 23^rd we will be participating in a Monical’s Community Day Fundraiser.  If you eat at Monical’s or order carry out on this day, Monical’s will contribute 20% of the bill to Shining Lights preschool.  Please invite your friends, family and neighbors to join you for pizza.  Fliers must be presented when ordering.

Trunk or Treat

All families are welcome to attend the “Trunk or Treat Celebration” at the church from 3-5 on Sunday, October 28^th.  Children will go between decorated car trunks in the parking lot “treating” for candy, prizes and playing games.  Children please wear your costume and bring your own bag to collect candy and prizes.  All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Labels for Education

We collect Labels for Education and in return we will receive items for the students to use at our school.  Please save your labels and place them in the mesh container in my office.  Please include the UPC code with the label.

Recycling

If you have items to be recycled, we collect the following items as part of the Eco Recycling Fundraiser:  cell phones (please no chargers or accessories), inkjet cartridges (ones that contained liquid, not powder), MP3 Players, digital cameras, handheld game systems, laptop computers, ipads and tablets, portable GPS devices, radar detectors, E-Book readers, and graphing calculators.

Looking Ahead

Oct 23rd ^—–Monical’s Community Day

 Oct 28^th—Trunk or treat in the church parking lot from 3-5pm

Oct 31st—Fall Parade and Parties  10:15 and 1:45 PM

Nov. 1^st—–Progress Reports will be sent home.  Parent teacher conferences will be held on February 19 and 20.

Nov. 13th —-Grandparent or Special Person Day

Nov. 21^st-22nd—No Preschool-Happy Thanksgiving!

Contact Information
Questions, Concerns, or to Report an absence:  Please call 452-5609 X 3 or send an email to Joan at ashiningstart@frontier.com.

Sometimes I am in the classrooms or at a meeting so if you need to give us an urgent message during school hours, and you are unable to reach us at 452-5609 X 3,

Please call:   452-5609 X 2.  The church secretary will get the message to us.

Family Night–Ice Cream Social
Please come to the Preschool Family Night—Ice cream Social on Thursday, September 20^th from 6:00-7:00.  We will be serving ice cream by the playground equipment.  Please feel free to bring your own lawn chairs or a blanket to sit on.  If it rains, we will serve ice cream in the church fellowship hall by the kitchen.  We hope to see you there!  Please sign up by Tuesday, September 18^th!

Welcome!
Welcome to Shining Lights Preschool!   I am looking forward to working with you and your child.

Please feel free to contact me whenever you have questions or concerns.  You may reach me at school by calling

452-5609 X 3 or emailing me at ashiningstart@frontier.com.

Absent
Please call the school at 452-5609 X 3 or send an email to ashiningstart@frontier.com if your child will be absent.

Handbooks and Paperwork
Please read through the preschool  handbook, sign the back page and return it to school on or before September 4th.  We must keep this page in your child’s preschool file.

Dismissal Time
Please use the yellow cards in this envelope at dismissal time for the first few weeks of school.

Tuition
Tuition for the entire school year is $990.00.  Tuition may be paid in one lump sum to Shining Lights Preschool or 9 installments of $110.00 may be paid.  Please make checks payable to Shining Lights Preschool.  If you choose to pay by installments, the first installment is due at open house.  Then payments are always due by the first Tuesday of the month.  The tuition box will be placed in the hallway each month for you to deposit your payment.

Anytime during the year, if you are unable to bring your payment to school, please mail it to:

Shining Lights Preschool
311 N Hershey   Rd
Normal, IL 61761.

Here is the tuition payment schedule:

August 27th (open house)

September 4th

October 2nd

November 6th

December 4th

January 8th

February 5th

March 5th

April 2nd

T-shirts
If you would like to order a t-shirt, please let me know by September 6th.  The price of a T-shirt is $8.00.  The shirts come in sizes 2-4, 6-8, 10-12 and 14-16.

Volunteers
 Volunteers are always appreciated!  If you would like to volunteer at Shining Lights Preschool, please let us know.

Also, if you work at State Farm and you volunteer more than 40 hours per school year, State Farm will donate $500.00 to the preschool as part of the Good Neighbor Grant Program.  Thank you to all of our past volunteers!

Snack Calendars
The monthly snack calendar will be posted in the classroom, in the preschool hallway and on our website at www.shininglightspreschool.com.  If you would like to bring birthday treats for your child’s birthday, we would be happy to schedule it on the snack calendar.  We also celebrate half birthdays for summer birthdays.  Please let us know ahead of time what you will be bringing for treats.

Substitute Teachers
 We are in need of substitute teachers and assistants.  Substitute teachers need to meet the DCFS qualifications.  If you are interested or know someone who might be, please see me for more information.

Labels for Education
 Shining Lights Preschool collects Labels for Education and in return we will receive items for the students to use at our school.  Please save your labels and place them in the mesh container in my office.  Please include the UPC code with the label.  A list of participating products is included in this envelope.  Also, if you have a Kroger or Jewel-Osco card, you can register your card online by going to www.elabelsaddup.com and select Shining Lights Preschool as the school you would like to assist.  Every time you purchase a qualifying item we will earn points.  After using the product, simply cut off the label and return it to the collection container at school.  This helps us earn additional points.

Recycling
  If you have items to be recycled, we collect the following items as part of the Eco Recycling Fundraiser:  cell phones (please no chargers or accessories), inkjet cartridges (ones that contained liquid, not powder), MP3 Players, digital cameras, handheld game systems, laptop computers, ipads and tablets, portable GPS devices, radar detectors, E-Book readers, and graphing calculators.

School Pictures
 Expert A Photography will be taking our school pictures on September 26th.  More information will be sent home closer to the date.

Family Night
 Family Night at the preschool is scheduled for Thursday, September 20thfrom 6:00-7:00.  This is a fun time for you to get to know other preschool families.  We will have ice cream and a social time.  More information will be sent home prior to his event.

Field Trip to Rader Family
The 3’s and 4’s classes will take a field trip to Radar Family Farms on Thursday, September 27th.  A note with more details, directions, and a permission slip will be sent home at least two weeks before the field trip.  Parents and siblings are welcome to attend.  Rader’s charges $7.00 for parents and siblings 3 and up to attend the field trip.  Feel free to learn more about our first field trip by visiting www.raderfamilyfarms.com.

2012-2013 Open House Information
Monday, August 27th
AM classes-please attend open house from 5:30-6:15 pm
PM classes-please attend open house from 6:30-7:15 pm

More information and a school supply list will be mailed out by August 1st

Registration for the 2012-2013 School Year
It’s not too late!  We still have openings for the 2012-2013 school year!  Classes for children who have turned 3 or 4 by September 1, 2009 will meet on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.  The morning session meets from 8:45-11:00 and the afternoon session meets from 12:15-2:30.

There is an $85.00 registration fee and tuition is $990.00 for the school year or 9 payments of $110.00.

Monical’s Fundraiser
On Tuesday, May 8th, we will be participating in a Monical’s Community Day Fundraiser.  If you eat at Monical’s or order carry out on this day, Monical’s will contribute 20%  of the bill to Shining Lights Preschool.  Please invite your neighbors, friends and family.  You must present a flier when ordering.

Thrivent Activity
On Saturday, May 5th, at 9:00 AM we will be participating in a hands-on volunteer service activity funded by Thrivent Chapter.  Thrivent is providing funds for our preschool to purchase new mulch for the playground.  If you are a Thrivent member, please let me know if you are willing to help us spread the mulch on the playground.  We are very thankful for the funds provided by Thrivent.

Vacation Bible School
You are welcome to attend Bible School at Christ Lutheran Church from June 10th-14th from 6:00-8:15 p.m.  The theme this year is Babylon-Daniel’s Courage in Captivity.

Looking Ahead…
May 1st-Tuition is due
May 10th-Fun Day at Tipton Park 8:45-11:00 and 12:15-2:30
May 17th-Last Day of Preschool
May 18th-Graduation at 6:00pm for AM classes and 7:30 for PM Classes
Enjoy your summer!
September 4th-First Day of School for the 2012-2013 School Year
We can’t wait to see you!

Lutheran Schools Week
The children did a wonderful job singing in the evening church service on March 10^th.  We are so glad many of you were able to attend.  During the Lutheran Schools Week coin drive, the amount of money contributed to the preschool container was $569.62 and the total amount of money contributed to the church container was $81.77.  Altogether we raised $651.39!  It was so wonderful to see everyone giving so cheerfully!  Thank you for all of your donations.  These funds will be a great benefit to His Little Lamb Ministry and Clare House.

 A Good Book to Read…
 Creative Correction (Extraordinary Ideas for Everyday Discipline) by Lisa Whelchel

 Facebook
Shining Lights Preschool is now on Facebook.  Please visit our page and like us!

Shining Lights Preschool Registration for the 2012-2013 School Year
It’s not too late! We still have openings in the afternoon classes for the 2012-2013 school year!  Please see me if you would like to register.

Kindergarten Registration
Kindergarten Registration for District 87 will take place on various days from April11th-27th.  Please visit their website at www.district87.org for more information. Please call for an appointment.
April 11^th-Washington School 829-7034
April 18^th-Irving School 827-8091
April 18^th-Stevenson School 663-2351
April 19^th-Oakland School 662-4302
April 24^& 25th-Sheridan School 828-2359
April 27^th-Bent School 828-4315

Trinity Lutheran School
If you are interested in sending your child to Trinity Lutheran School for K-8, please call 829-7513 or visit their website at www.trinitylutheranlcms.org.

Christ Lutheran Church Easter Egg Hunt
You are invited to attend the church Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 7th from 9:30-11:00.  This event includes coloring eggs, making a craft and snack, hearing the Easter story, playing games and hunting for eggs.  Please see the sign-up sheet on the director’s cart.  All children who attend must be accompanied by a supervised adult.  This is a FREE activity.  Please feel free to bring your own basket for hunting eggs.  If you do not have a basket, a plastic bag will be available for you to use.  This activity will take place rain or shine!

 Reading Program
Please keep reading home and bring in those chocolate chips to tape to the will by the cookie! We will have a cookie party on April 17^th to celebrate reading!

Monical’s Fundraiser
On Tuesday, May 8th we will have a Monical’s Community Day Fundraiser.  If you eat at Monical’s or order carry out on this day, Monical’s will contribute 20% of the bill to Shining Lights Preschool.  Fliers will be available closer to the date.  Please feel free to invite your friends, family, and neighbors to eat at Monical’s on this day.

Labels for Education and Eco Recycling
We are still collecting Labels for Education.  If you are saving labels, please be sure the UPC Code is on the label.  We also collect empty ink jet cartridges and old cell phones.  If you would like to recycle these items, please place them in the container at school.

Tuition
Tuition payments are due April 3rd.  Tuition is $110.00.  Please make checks payable to Shining Lights Preschool.  We appreciate your prompt payments!

Looking Ahead…
April 4^th- 4’s Class Graduation Pictures
April 5^th- Easter Egg Hunt at school
April 17^th-Cookie Party for Reading!
April 19^th-4’s Class Field trip to Schnuck’s and Rosati’s    9:00-11:00 and 12:30-2:30
April 25^th-3’s Class Field trip to Miller Park Zoo                 9:00-11:00 and 12:30-2:30
May 8^th- Monical’s Pizza Fundraiser
May 10^th-Fun Day at Tipton Park
May 17^th-Last Day of Preschool
May 18^th-4’s Class Graduation         6:00 p.m. for AM and 7:30p.m. for the PM class

Contact Information
Please feel free to contact me whenever you have a question or concern.  You may reach me at school by calling 452-5609 X 3 or emailing me at ashiningstart@frontier.com.

Thank you for participating in the Rosati’s Fundraiser on February 9th! We appreciate your support!

Safety First!
Please enter and exit through the door by the secretary’s office. The other doors should be locked at all times for safety reasons. At times people have been exiting through the doors by the 3’s dismissal area. These doors do not always get pulled shut all the way, leaving the doors open. Please help us stay safe! Thank you!

Tuition
Tuition payments are due March 6th. Tuition is $110.00. Please make checks payable to Shining Lights Preschool. We appreciate your prompt payments.

Lutheran Schools Week
Lutheran Schools Week March 4th-10th is National Lutheran Schools Week. The theme is Securing Each Child’s Future-Equipped. The key verses are from 2 Timothy 3:16-17.

Tuesday, March 6-Wear your Shining Lights Preschool T-shirt or school colors
Wednesday, March 7-Preschoolers will see “His Little Lamb Puppet Ministry” Presentation
Thursday, March 8-Pajama Day
Saturday, March 10-Worship Service at 5:30 and Pizza Dinner following service-Please remember to turn in your form by February 29th if you plan on attending.

Money Drive- during the week of March 6th-10th

Our mission project for the week will be to raise funds for “His Little Lamb Ministry” (which is a ministry that shares the “Good News” of Jesus with preschoolers through a puppet/variety show) and Clare House.

Facebook
Shining Lights Preschool is now on Facebook. Please visit our page and like us!

A Good Book to Read…
Parenting with Love and Logic, Teaching Children Responsibility by Foster Cline, M.D. and Jim Fay

Field Trips
March 1st– 3’s Class is going to Normal Public Library
9:15-11:00 and 12:45-2:30

March 21st—4’s Class is going to Rising Stars Academy
9:00-10:45 and 12:30-2:15

April 19th—4’s Class is going to Schnucks grocery store and Rosati’s Pizza
9:00-11:00 and 12:30-2:30

April 25th—3’s Class is going to Miller Park Zoo
9:00-11:00 and 12:30-2:30

Spring Break: No Preschool on March 27, 28, 29

Looking Ahead…
April 4th- 4’s class Graduation Pictures
April 5th – Easter Egg Hunt at school
May 10th- Fun Day at Tipton Park
May 17th- Last Day of Preschool
May 18th- 4’s Class Graduation

Kindergarten Registration
Kindergarten Registration for Unit 5 will be held on Tuesday, March 20th. For more information, please visit www.unit5.org

Kindergarten Registration for District 87 will take place on a various dates in April. I still haven’t seen all the dates posted online yet. Please feel free to check their website at www.district87.org for more information. So far I only have registration information for Stevenson School. At Stevenson, registration will take place on April 18th. Please call the office at 663-2351 to set up an appointment.

You will need to bring the following: your child, a certified copy of the birth certificate, and proof of residency. Before school begins, a physical examination form, dental form and vision form will need to be turned in.

Shining Lights Preschool Registration for the 2012-2013 School Year
There are still afternoon spots available next year in the 3’s and 4’s class. Please let us know if you would like to register.

Reading Program
On March 13th we will begin a reading program encouraging families to read at home! Our program is called “If You Read Some Books, We will Give You a Cookie Party!” More information will be sent home on March 13th.

Rosati’s Fundraiser
On Thursday, February 9^th, we will be participating in a Rosati’s Fundraiser located at 1720 Bradford Lane in Normal.  25% of dine-in orders and 20% of carry-out orders will be donated to Shining Lights Preschool.  The Zoo Lady will offer face painting from 5-7 pm.  Please invite your family and friends to order out or eat at Rosati’s on this day.  No voucher is needed–just mention Shining Lights Preschool when ordering.  This offer is good at the Normal location only.

Valentine’s Parties!
Our Valentine’s Parties will take place in the classrooms on Tuesday, February 14th.  We will have regular class on this day.  The morning party will start at 10:15.  The afternoon party will start at 1:45.  If you would like to help with the parties, please sign up in the classroom.  Please bring a valentine for every child in the class.  Your child’s name needs to be written on each valentine in the “from” section.

Please do not write names in the “to” section on the valentine.  It is more fun for the children to deliver their valentines if they do not have to match the correct name with the correct bag.

In the 3’s room there are 10 children in the morning and 9 children in the afternoon.  In the 4’s room, there are 18 children in the morning and 12 children in the afternoon.

School Closing Information
When school is closed due to inclement weather it will be announced on WJBC (1230 AM), WBNQ (101.5 FM), and B-104 (104.1 FM).  It will also be announced on NBC 25/HOI-19.  You can also find school closings on these websites:  www.wjbc.com,  www.wbnq.com, www.wbwn.com, and www.centralillinoisnewscenter.com. Whenever Unit 5 Schools are closed, Shining Lights Preschool is closed too.  I will also try to send out an email as soon as I know about the school closing.

Tuition
Tuition payments are due Tuesday, February 7th.  Please make checks payable to Shining Lights Preschool.  Tuition is $110.00.  We appreciate your prompt payments!

Registration for the 2012-2013 School Year
Please tell your friends and family that registration is now in progress!  There is an $85.00 registration fee due at the time of registration.

Tuition for both classes will be $110.00 a month.  Classes will meet on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.  The morning class will meet from 8:45-11:00 and the afternoon class will meet from 12:15-2:30.

Kindergarten Registration
Kindergarten Registration for Unit 5 will be held on Tuesday, March 20th. Kindergarten Registration for District 87 has not been finalized.  I will let you know when I find out about the specific dates.

Looking Ahead
Please mark your calendars!

No Preschool—Feb 21^st and 22^nd due to parent teacher conferences

Heidi German, a nurse consultant from the CCRRN, will present a lesson on dental care—Feb 29th

Lutheran School’s Week special activities–Mar 6, 7, 8

Saturday, March 10^th at 5:30 p.m. church service (preschoolers sing during the service) and pizza party immediately following

No Preschool –Mar 27, 28, 29 due to Spring Break