Dear Second Grade Parents,
       We recognize the significance of a birthday in a second grader's life and the desire children have to celebrate that special day in school. We would like to share with you a new birthday tradition at Newtown Elementary.
       In the past children celebrated birthdays by bringing a sweet snack for the class.  Since Newtown Elementary is a peanut-free school we are asking that you don't send food of any type for your child's birthday.  Instead the birthday child is encouraged to "treat" the class to a "birthday book" (wrapped in paper if you wish) for the classroom library.  This book becomes a permanent part of the classroom library and the birthday child is recognized by a bookplate inside the cover.  The donated book can be a favorite of the birthday child or reflect a special interest. 
         The Second Grade Team feels that this alternative to sweets is not only meaningful and more healthful, but it also sends a message to children of the value of enjoying books and reading.  Thank you for helping create a tradition of lasting "food for thought" in the form of a book.              

Second Grade Team