At the current time, we have only a very few students who have had head lice, but since head lice can appear at any time of year, I thought I'd remind parents about some policies that we have to follow at Maplewood. Our nurse, Michelle Maclachlan, is here only on Tuesdays; school nurses are hired through the Multnomah Educational Service District (MESD).
The current advice is that parents should periodically check their children for any signs of head lice. The MESD establishes many of our health policies, which include the following:
" Parents are encouraged to check their children regularly for head lice. Students with live lice will be excluded from school and sent home with lice treatment information. The student will be readmitted to school aftertreatment with an FDA (Federal Drug Administration) approved medicated product and re-examination for live lice. Any student with nits only will be allowed in school and monitored for re-infestation of lice. Current evidence does not support classroom or school-wide screening as a measure for decreasing the incidence of head lice among school age children."
At Maplewood, we monitor cases of head lice, to watch for reasonable ways to prevent the spread of head lice. If you have questions about this, feel free to contact Michelle at Maplewood. Additional resources can be found at the MESD Head Lice Resources page at http://www.mesd.k12.or.us/shs/hss/Head%20Lice%20Resources/headliceresourcesindex.shtml
Friday, January 15, 2010
Tuesday, January 05, 2010
Extra Bus Being Added in February
I have been monitoring the number of students and the length of the bus rides for students this year, and I've asked Transportation to make plans to decrease the number of students and the time students are riding the morning and afternoon buses. We currently have three buses that run routes for the beginning and the end of the day; we are now making plans to add a fourth bus beginning in February.
This will entail some changes for all of us - it is very possible that your child's drop-off or pick-up time and bus route # will be changed; at school, it means we have to get an expanded bus zone ready, and get bus schedules to you. We want to make this a smooth transition, which is why we will not be starting the new routes until at least the first week in February. "Stay tuned" for more specifics in January; I wanted to give you a heads-up.
This will entail some changes for all of us - it is very possible that your child's drop-off or pick-up time and bus route # will be changed; at school, it means we have to get an expanded bus zone ready, and get bus schedules to you. We want to make this a smooth transition, which is why we will not be starting the new routes until at least the first week in February. "Stay tuned" for more specifics in January; I wanted to give you a heads-up.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Principal Notes 10-14-09
Late Opening Wednesday, October 21st
This is the second of this year’s 2 Hour Late Openings, in which all PPS schools were required to participate. At Maplewood, our teachers will be working hard on training on our emphasis on writing. On late opening days, the schedule will just have 2 hours added on to the usual time:
- Bus pick-up times will be two hours later than usual (eg. , if your usual bus time is 7:20, on late openings it will be 9:20.
-Child care arrangements will be discussed with Art4Life, who will communicate with the families who have already signed up with them.
-Kindergartners!: Half-day students come all day and will eat lunch at school, and bus students will go home on the afternoon bus. The PPS website at http://159.191.14.135/.docs/pg/400/rid/11786/f/KindergartenLate_Open_Advisory.pdf discusses effects on Half-day and Full Day kindergarten students
New Cafeteria Policy on Milk Substitutions to start on November 9th
PPS schools must implement a new policy from the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) and ODE Child Nutrition (Oregon Department of Education) which states that juice may not be offered as a milk substitute. Currently there is no approved milk substitute available in Oregon. Students will not be required to take milk when they purchase lunch, if they do not drink milk. Students who do not want milk may choose from the other food groups offered to select at least three food groups.
As of November 9th, milk will be the only a la carte beverage sold in the K-5 and K-9 cafeterias. Juice will not be an option at lunch in order to encourage students to limit juice intake and eat more whole fruits as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. There is no limitation on beverages sent from home. Contact Shannon Stember at 503.916.3365 if you have questions.
GRANDPARENTS/SPECIAL FRIENDS - WHEN: Grandparents or special friends can come to Maplewood on Thursday, Oct. 28th . A ceremony will be held starting at 12:30 p.m. in the gym. WHO: Grandparents or Special Friends of your child. Space is limited for the performance and in the room, so it is usual to have one or two people come (but we don’t have room for the “whole family”. WHAT: The student musical performance will be in the gym, and we ask all attendees to stay until the end; after the program in the gym is finished, the adults can go back to the classroom with the students to visit there and see the classrooms; hint: we’ll let our guests all leave school by 2:00 p.m. to avoid the usual traffic jams at the dismissal time at the end of the day. (If you want your child to leave school with someone different than we have on file, or to leave early, we must have a note from you or the hot pink permission slip turned in!) Come enjoy the children, and hear praises for you as their Special Friends or Grandparents! The kids love to see you here!
COSTUME PARADE - FRIDAY, OCT. 31ST - This again will be the day when children can bring costumes to school to wear in an afternoon parade. Students will put on costumes after lunch, and begin the parade at 12:45 p.m. on the playground (in the gym if poor weather). To make this a safe, enjoyable event for everyone, make sure that the costumes are: SAFE (they shouldn’t restrict vision or trip them up; also, absolutely no fake or real weapons should be brought for this school affair) and APPROPRIATE FOR THEIR AGE (no revealing, bloody, or violent costumes) and CONVENIENT (so the student doesn’t have to be stressed about the time limits to get dressed; they will not be allowed to put on costumes until right after lunch).
TAG PARENT INFORMATION SESSION - On Weds. Oct. 28th, from 7:00 to 8:00 at Wilson High School, I will be helping host an informational meeting for parents wanting to learn more about TAG identification and instruction. We will be meeting at Wilson with the parents from all the other Wilson Cluster Schools for a joint meeting, and then we’ll follow this with “bread-out” sessions for each individual school to meet with the Principal and ask more specific questions. Roxanne Coleman, a representative from the district’s TAG office, will be present to offer information and answer questions.
DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIALS TO YOU - It is the policy of the Board of Education to allow organizations that provide educational, athletic or training services or opportunities for children to send information home to students on a schedule established by the school. The Board adopted this policy and the Superintendent has developed an accompanying administrative directive because there is a vast array of excellent community opportunities available to supplement your child’s education, and we want you to be aware of these opportunities.
However, once we decide to allow this type of information to be distributed, state and federal law prohibit Portland Public Schools from restricting certain information based on the viewpoint of the group distributing information. This means that from time to time you may receive materials from a group that holds values that may offend some of our families. You will want to review this material closely to determine if it presents an opportunity in which you want your child to participate.
The organizations providing this information are not endorsed or sponsore6308d by Portland Public Schools. District policy prohibits discrimination on the basis of age, color, creed, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, and sexual orientation (BP 1.80.020). Not all outside organizations comply with the District’s non-discrimination policy. Again, families are strongly encouraged to review all materials closely (3.30.038-AD).
Maplewood has made the decision to distribute materials on Fridays.
From time to time, items may be placed on the Community Information Display Area, where items will be available to students and families. Organizations that choose this mode of distribution will have the opportunity to display their items in this designated area for two months.
If you have any questions regarding this policy or the administrative directive (3.30.038-AD), it is available on the web at www.pps.k12.or.us (click Board of Education, then Policies). You may also contact our office at 503-916-6308.
CONFERENCE SCHEDULING OR RE-SCHEDULING – I have become worried again this year that an unusually high number of parents may have scheduled family vacations during the days that school is cancelled for parent/teacher conferences and Thanksgiving Holiday Nov. 24 through Nov. 29th. I have requested that if a conference is not held that week due to family vacation plans:
• that the conference not be re-scheduled, but
• that any conference information be sent home after the conference week for parents’ information.
My concern is that re-scheduled conferences take more teacher time, which affect teachers’ planning time (the time that they use for valuable curriculum and lesson planning that affects all students). If the conference can’t be held for unavoidable reasons, please contact the teacher for re-scheduling; however, if it is for avoidable reasons such as vacations, please do not request a different meeting time.
Also, because of the high numbers of students here, and the decrease in time allotted by our PPS calendar, I’m also asking that conferences with divorced/separated parents be held when both parents can attend at the same time. It helps with healthy communication to have both parents discuss the child with the teacher together.
LOST AND FOUND - We are setting a record for number of clothing items that are “lost” and then put in our “Found” area (at the top of the cafeteria stairs near the Kindergarten room in 101). It is a huge pile, and usually if filled with clothes that the kids forget somewhere, and with clothes that don’t have any name written on them anywhere. I would strongly suggest that you put your child’s name on the clothing somewhere (on the label, e.g.); also, please make sure you or your child check there for any lost clothing items.
This is the second of this year’s 2 Hour Late Openings, in which all PPS schools were required to participate. At Maplewood, our teachers will be working hard on training on our emphasis on writing. On late opening days, the schedule will just have 2 hours added on to the usual time:
- Bus pick-up times will be two hours later than usual (eg. , if your usual bus time is 7:20, on late openings it will be 9:20.
-Child care arrangements will be discussed with Art4Life, who will communicate with the families who have already signed up with them.
-Kindergartners!: Half-day students come all day and will eat lunch at school, and bus students will go home on the afternoon bus. The PPS website at http://159.191.14.135/.docs/pg/400/rid/11786/f/KindergartenLate_Open_Advisory.pdf discusses effects on Half-day and Full Day kindergarten students
New Cafeteria Policy on Milk Substitutions to start on November 9th
PPS schools must implement a new policy from the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) and ODE Child Nutrition (Oregon Department of Education) which states that juice may not be offered as a milk substitute. Currently there is no approved milk substitute available in Oregon. Students will not be required to take milk when they purchase lunch, if they do not drink milk. Students who do not want milk may choose from the other food groups offered to select at least three food groups.
As of November 9th, milk will be the only a la carte beverage sold in the K-5 and K-9 cafeterias. Juice will not be an option at lunch in order to encourage students to limit juice intake and eat more whole fruits as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. There is no limitation on beverages sent from home. Contact Shannon Stember at 503.916.3365 if you have questions.
GRANDPARENTS/SPECIAL FRIENDS - WHEN: Grandparents or special friends can come to Maplewood on Thursday, Oct. 28th . A ceremony will be held starting at 12:30 p.m. in the gym. WHO: Grandparents or Special Friends of your child. Space is limited for the performance and in the room, so it is usual to have one or two people come (but we don’t have room for the “whole family”. WHAT: The student musical performance will be in the gym, and we ask all attendees to stay until the end; after the program in the gym is finished, the adults can go back to the classroom with the students to visit there and see the classrooms; hint: we’ll let our guests all leave school by 2:00 p.m. to avoid the usual traffic jams at the dismissal time at the end of the day. (If you want your child to leave school with someone different than we have on file, or to leave early, we must have a note from you or the hot pink permission slip turned in!) Come enjoy the children, and hear praises for you as their Special Friends or Grandparents! The kids love to see you here!
COSTUME PARADE - FRIDAY, OCT. 31ST - This again will be the day when children can bring costumes to school to wear in an afternoon parade. Students will put on costumes after lunch, and begin the parade at 12:45 p.m. on the playground (in the gym if poor weather). To make this a safe, enjoyable event for everyone, make sure that the costumes are: SAFE (they shouldn’t restrict vision or trip them up; also, absolutely no fake or real weapons should be brought for this school affair) and APPROPRIATE FOR THEIR AGE (no revealing, bloody, or violent costumes) and CONVENIENT (so the student doesn’t have to be stressed about the time limits to get dressed; they will not be allowed to put on costumes until right after lunch).
TAG PARENT INFORMATION SESSION - On Weds. Oct. 28th, from 7:00 to 8:00 at Wilson High School, I will be helping host an informational meeting for parents wanting to learn more about TAG identification and instruction. We will be meeting at Wilson with the parents from all the other Wilson Cluster Schools for a joint meeting, and then we’ll follow this with “bread-out” sessions for each individual school to meet with the Principal and ask more specific questions. Roxanne Coleman, a representative from the district’s TAG office, will be present to offer information and answer questions.
DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIALS TO YOU - It is the policy of the Board of Education to allow organizations that provide educational, athletic or training services or opportunities for children to send information home to students on a schedule established by the school. The Board adopted this policy and the Superintendent has developed an accompanying administrative directive because there is a vast array of excellent community opportunities available to supplement your child’s education, and we want you to be aware of these opportunities.
However, once we decide to allow this type of information to be distributed, state and federal law prohibit Portland Public Schools from restricting certain information based on the viewpoint of the group distributing information. This means that from time to time you may receive materials from a group that holds values that may offend some of our families. You will want to review this material closely to determine if it presents an opportunity in which you want your child to participate.
The organizations providing this information are not endorsed or sponsore6308d by Portland Public Schools. District policy prohibits discrimination on the basis of age, color, creed, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, and sexual orientation (BP 1.80.020). Not all outside organizations comply with the District’s non-discrimination policy. Again, families are strongly encouraged to review all materials closely (3.30.038-AD).
Maplewood has made the decision to distribute materials on Fridays.
From time to time, items may be placed on the Community Information Display Area, where items will be available to students and families. Organizations that choose this mode of distribution will have the opportunity to display their items in this designated area for two months.
If you have any questions regarding this policy or the administrative directive (3.30.038-AD), it is available on the web at www.pps.k12.or.us (click Board of Education, then Policies). You may also contact our office at 503-916-6308.
CONFERENCE SCHEDULING OR RE-SCHEDULING – I have become worried again this year that an unusually high number of parents may have scheduled family vacations during the days that school is cancelled for parent/teacher conferences and Thanksgiving Holiday Nov. 24 through Nov. 29th. I have requested that if a conference is not held that week due to family vacation plans:
• that the conference not be re-scheduled, but
• that any conference information be sent home after the conference week for parents’ information.
My concern is that re-scheduled conferences take more teacher time, which affect teachers’ planning time (the time that they use for valuable curriculum and lesson planning that affects all students). If the conference can’t be held for unavoidable reasons, please contact the teacher for re-scheduling; however, if it is for avoidable reasons such as vacations, please do not request a different meeting time.
Also, because of the high numbers of students here, and the decrease in time allotted by our PPS calendar, I’m also asking that conferences with divorced/separated parents be held when both parents can attend at the same time. It helps with healthy communication to have both parents discuss the child with the teacher together.
LOST AND FOUND - We are setting a record for number of clothing items that are “lost” and then put in our “Found” area (at the top of the cafeteria stairs near the Kindergarten room in 101). It is a huge pile, and usually if filled with clothes that the kids forget somewhere, and with clothes that don’t have any name written on them anywhere. I would strongly suggest that you put your child’s name on the clothing somewhere (on the label, e.g.); also, please make sure you or your child check there for any lost clothing items.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
New Cafeteria Policy on Milk
PPS schools must implement a new policy from the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) and ODE Child Nutrition (Oregon Department of Education) which states that juice may not be offered as a milk substitute. Currently there is no approved milk substitute available in Oregon. Students will not be required to take milk when they purchase lunch, if they do not drink milk. Students who do not want milk may choose from the other food groups offered to select at least three food groups.
As of November 9th, milk will be the only a la carte beverage sold in the K-5 and K-9 cafeterias. Juice will not be an option at lunch in order to encourage students to limit juice intake and eat more whole fruits as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. There is no limitation on beverages sent from home. Contact Shannon Stember at 503.916.3365 if you have questions.
As of November 9th, milk will be the only a la carte beverage sold in the K-5 and K-9 cafeterias. Juice will not be an option at lunch in order to encourage students to limit juice intake and eat more whole fruits as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. There is no limitation on beverages sent from home. Contact Shannon Stember at 503.916.3365 if you have questions.
Monday, October 12, 2009
flu update
Just wanted to pass on some quick information to update you on flu awareness here. Some information from today includes:
- my polling of teachers this morning shows that averaged over the school enrollment, about 23% of our students are out today. We continue to remind parents that students need to be symptom free (no symptoms without any medication) for 24 hours before they return to school
- PPS sent out this info to me this morning:
H1N1 update
10/8/2009
The H1N1 flu is here - in fact, it’s probably in all schools. The good news is that for the vast majority of infected students and staff, it means a few days home sick and then a return to school.
We are continuing to hear from health officials that the best thing schools can do is to stress prevention measures. Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, wash your hands often with soap and water, and stay home if you are sick.
What’s with the masks?
Starting the week of Oct. 12, those of you in schools may notice MESD nurses wearing masks when caring for sick students. Do not be alarmed. This is a precautionary measure intended to reduce the spread of the virus from a sick student to a healthy one.
Schools with county health centers will see medical staff taking additional precautions. This may include wearing respirator masks and gowns. Health centers serve as primary care providers - similar to a doctor’s office or hospital. Because of that, staff at the centers follow the same guidelines as staff in hospitals and other medical clinics. MESD nurses and school staff are not primary care providers. Their goal is to isolate sick students and care for them until they can be picked up from school.
Vaccination clinics
PPS is partnering with MESD to host community vaccination clinics at five schools: Wilson High School, Marshall Campus, Madison High School, Jefferson High School and Ockley Green K-8 School. MESD -- serving as an agent for the Multnomah County Health Department -- is providing both the medical staff and the vaccine. PPS is simply providing the space and logistical support.
Like all community vaccination clinics operated by MESD or Multnomah County, the school-based clinics provide no-cost vaccinations to anyone who walks through the doors. Children under 18 will need to be accompanied by an adult.
We’re still finalizing the dates and times for the school-based clinics. Once finalized, our school-based clinics will be added to a master schedule of all community vaccination clinics in the county. As soon as we can, we will share that information with you and our families.
- my polling of teachers this morning shows that averaged over the school enrollment, about 23% of our students are out today. We continue to remind parents that students need to be symptom free (no symptoms without any medication) for 24 hours before they return to school
- PPS sent out this info to me this morning:
H1N1 update
10/8/2009
The H1N1 flu is here - in fact, it’s probably in all schools. The good news is that for the vast majority of infected students and staff, it means a few days home sick and then a return to school.
We are continuing to hear from health officials that the best thing schools can do is to stress prevention measures. Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, wash your hands often with soap and water, and stay home if you are sick.
What’s with the masks?
Starting the week of Oct. 12, those of you in schools may notice MESD nurses wearing masks when caring for sick students. Do not be alarmed. This is a precautionary measure intended to reduce the spread of the virus from a sick student to a healthy one.
Schools with county health centers will see medical staff taking additional precautions. This may include wearing respirator masks and gowns. Health centers serve as primary care providers - similar to a doctor’s office or hospital. Because of that, staff at the centers follow the same guidelines as staff in hospitals and other medical clinics. MESD nurses and school staff are not primary care providers. Their goal is to isolate sick students and care for them until they can be picked up from school.
Vaccination clinics
PPS is partnering with MESD to host community vaccination clinics at five schools: Wilson High School, Marshall Campus, Madison High School, Jefferson High School and Ockley Green K-8 School. MESD -- serving as an agent for the Multnomah County Health Department -- is providing both the medical staff and the vaccine. PPS is simply providing the space and logistical support.
Like all community vaccination clinics operated by MESD or Multnomah County, the school-based clinics provide no-cost vaccinations to anyone who walks through the doors. Children under 18 will need to be accompanied by an adult.
We’re still finalizing the dates and times for the school-based clinics. Once finalized, our school-based clinics will be added to a master schedule of all community vaccination clinics in the county. As soon as we can, we will share that information with you and our families.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Open House and Picnic Thursday, Sept 24
Our annual Picnic/Open House will be held on Thursday, Sept. 24th.
5:30 (or when you want to come): Picnic on lawn (or gym if raining)
5:30 Rose City Bluegrass Band plays for your entertainment
6:30 Doors to school open and you can go in to see classrooms, meet teacher, and meet other classmates. See the Maplewood website http://159.191.14.135/.docs/pg/11619 for a flyer and more information
5:30 (or when you want to come): Picnic on lawn (or gym if raining)
5:30 Rose City Bluegrass Band plays for your entertainment
6:30 Doors to school open and you can go in to see classrooms, meet teacher, and meet other classmates. See the Maplewood website http://159.191.14.135/.docs/pg/11619 for a flyer and more information
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Important Upcoming Dates
Mark your calendars for some important dates coming up:
Fri Sept. 11 - First Day for Kindergartners (half and full-day)
Fri Sept. 11 - 8:15 = New Parent Information Meeting in cafeteria
Weds Sept. 16 - Two Hour Late Opening - school starts at 10:00!
Weds Sept. 16 - 6:15 is the first PTA Meeting
Thurs Sept. 24 - Open House/Back to School Picnic 5:30 is optional picnic and Bluegrass Band on the lawn (or in gym if raining) and 6:30 to 7:30 doors open to come into school to see classrooms and meet teachers/friends
Fri. Oct 2 - School Carnival
Mon. Oct. 5 - Picture Day
Weds Oct. 7 - International Walk/Bike to School Day
Fri Oct. 9 - NO SCHOOL - State In-Service Day
Weds. Oct 21 - Two Hour Late Opening - school starts at 10:00!
Weds Oct 28 - Special Friends/Grandparents Day 12:30
Thurs Oct 29 - Picture Make-Up Day
Fri Oct 30 - Costume Parade in afternoon
Fri Sept. 11 - First Day for Kindergartners (half and full-day)
Fri Sept. 11 - 8:15 = New Parent Information Meeting in cafeteria
Weds Sept. 16 - Two Hour Late Opening - school starts at 10:00!
Weds Sept. 16 - 6:15 is the first PTA Meeting
Thurs Sept. 24 - Open House/Back to School Picnic 5:30 is optional picnic and Bluegrass Band on the lawn (or in gym if raining) and 6:30 to 7:30 doors open to come into school to see classrooms and meet teachers/friends
Fri. Oct 2 - School Carnival
Mon. Oct. 5 - Picture Day
Weds Oct. 7 - International Walk/Bike to School Day
Fri Oct. 9 - NO SCHOOL - State In-Service Day
Weds. Oct 21 - Two Hour Late Opening - school starts at 10:00!
Weds Oct 28 - Special Friends/Grandparents Day 12:30
Thurs Oct 29 - Picture Make-Up Day
Fri Oct 30 - Costume Parade in afternoon
Swine Flu Plans
Maplewood follows the health directives and suggestions from authorities closely, including those from the Multnomah Health Department and the Multnomah Education Service District. If you go to this link from Portland Public Schools: http://www.pps.k12.or.us/families/1180.htm , you will find links to information in several languages talking about suggestions for families.
At this point, the link refers to common sense actions about preventing it through handwashing with soap or alcohol sanitizers; it also give very clear indications that if a child is sick, they should stay home. We will be very cautious this year at Maplewood about this, and "when in doubt, we'll call" to have a child stay home or to be taken home to make sure we help us all from spreading any flu or sickness. Your cooperation and support on this will help a great deal!
At this point, the link refers to common sense actions about preventing it through handwashing with soap or alcohol sanitizers; it also give very clear indications that if a child is sick, they should stay home. We will be very cautious this year at Maplewood about this, and "when in doubt, we'll call" to have a child stay home or to be taken home to make sure we help us all from spreading any flu or sickness. Your cooperation and support on this will help a great deal!
Friday, September 04, 2009
Patience during our "Opening
Our have to tell you how proud I am of our staff for their heroic efforts to be ready for school on Tuesday! Even as I type this, there are still electricians and other workers still around, working right over the desks of several teachers who have had to wait til the last minute to even be able to get to their rooms.
Most noticeably affected are Liberty Looney and Patty Stanich, who have been such strong professionals as they have waited to even be able to walk into their classrooms until 2 days ago! And all our teachers have had construction in the main building to work around.
So, when you come and see the changes and see the rooms at the beginning of this year (you'll be amazed), please give our teachers a pat on the back, and especially give them your patience and support as they work with the children in these new surroundings! We're excited about getting started with this New Year!
Most noticeably affected are Liberty Looney and Patty Stanich, who have been such strong professionals as they have waited to even be able to walk into their classrooms until 2 days ago! And all our teachers have had construction in the main building to work around.
So, when you come and see the changes and see the rooms at the beginning of this year (you'll be amazed), please give our teachers a pat on the back, and especially give them your patience and support as they work with the children in these new surroundings! We're excited about getting started with this New Year!
Kindergarten Programming News
This last week has been extremely busy! During the last two weeks we have met more and more new kindergartners coming to register. In fact, I just confirmed with the district that we do need to add some resources to our Kindergarten program.
Here is what we have as of today: We have a total of 29 students in one class, and 30 in another, and within those classes, we have a grand total of 12 students who are enrolled for Half-Time. That total number is higher than what we want here, and high enough that we earn an additional half-time teacher.
In looking at the recent enrollments, our total numbers, and at the best configuration for these students, here is what is being planned:
1. We will be moving the 12 half-time students into their own separate classroom with a half-time Kindergarten teacher, which will leave 22 to 25 students in the two Full-Time Classrooms. The teachers will be: Paula Sauvageau teaching a Full-Time Class in 110, Beth Hawes teaching the other Full-Time Class in 108, and I will be hiring a teacher for the Half-Time Class which will be in 112. This new teacher will be hired and announced as soon as possible; even though it is late notice, my goal is to have a person hired and ready to begin school for students on the first day of Kindergarten, Sept. 11th.
2. School hours for full-time and half-time students will be the same as before.
3. The Full-Time students and parents will be meeting their teachers at their appointed times.
4. Assessment Appointments: The Half-Time Students and parents will very possibly get an assessment and talk with someone who is NOT going to be their actual teacher (I'm still working as quickly as I can on this). But until you hear otherwise from me, plan on coming in at the times for which you already have an appointment.
5. Changes in full vs. half K : This new set-up will mean that after the school year starts, if a student has to change from full-time to half-time, or from half-time to full-time, it also means that they will have to change teachers/classrooms. If any of you are considering that there might be a change, keep this in mind, and call the school office right away to discuss it with John.
I am sure that his Kindergarten Program will make for a wonderful year for all our students.
Here is what we have as of today: We have a total of 29 students in one class, and 30 in another, and within those classes, we have a grand total of 12 students who are enrolled for Half-Time. That total number is higher than what we want here, and high enough that we earn an additional half-time teacher.
In looking at the recent enrollments, our total numbers, and at the best configuration for these students, here is what is being planned:
1. We will be moving the 12 half-time students into their own separate classroom with a half-time Kindergarten teacher, which will leave 22 to 25 students in the two Full-Time Classrooms. The teachers will be: Paula Sauvageau teaching a Full-Time Class in 110, Beth Hawes teaching the other Full-Time Class in 108, and I will be hiring a teacher for the Half-Time Class which will be in 112. This new teacher will be hired and announced as soon as possible; even though it is late notice, my goal is to have a person hired and ready to begin school for students on the first day of Kindergarten, Sept. 11th.
2. School hours for full-time and half-time students will be the same as before.
3. The Full-Time students and parents will be meeting their teachers at their appointed times.
4. Assessment Appointments: The Half-Time Students and parents will very possibly get an assessment and talk with someone who is NOT going to be their actual teacher (I'm still working as quickly as I can on this). But until you hear otherwise from me, plan on coming in at the times for which you already have an appointment.
5. Changes in full vs. half K : This new set-up will mean that after the school year starts, if a student has to change from full-time to half-time, or from half-time to full-time, it also means that they will have to change teachers/classrooms. If any of you are considering that there might be a change, keep this in mind, and call the school office right away to discuss it with John.
I am sure that his Kindergarten Program will make for a wonderful year for all our students.
PE - New Teacher and Full-Time
News about our Physical Education Program at Maplewood: I am hapy to announce that we ARE going to be able to have a second year of a Full-Time P.E. Teacher for our children!
As you may remember, we were the only school in the Portland Public Schools to apply for, and receive, a grant from the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) a year ago. This grant paid for the salary for a full-time P.E. Teacher all last year, with the additional help of some Maplewood funds. But at the end of the year, we were given the disappointing news that the state was not going to fund it for our second year due to budget limits. Therefore, last spring, Mr. Schalk was transferred to work at Creston Scho0ol - we were sorry to see him go. At that point, though, we were then able to hire Jane Eggert for half-time PE. teaching here.
The most recent news, however, brought positive results for us: two weeks ago, a phone call to me from ODE stated that on their last legislative day, some funding was added at the last minute to fund some salary money for this PE program for one more year, and I was invited to write an application for it. I did that over a weekend, turned it in, and was just told that we will be one of 29 schools in the state to get this grant for one year! So as it stands now, Jane Eggert just yesterday was given the official o.k. to teach here full time, and she is delighted!
Ms. Eggert lives close by, has children who attended Wilson Cluster Schools, and brings energy, passion, and years of experience to this important part of the education of our children! Please join me in welcoming her when you see her!
Friday, May 22, 2009
Principal Notes Memorial Day Weekend
Dear Community - Enjoy your three day weekend! Here is a text version of the Principal Notes that went home today.
No School Monday! Memorial Day Holiday
FIELD DAY WEDNESDAY MAY 27TH - Field day is coming up and we need adult volunteers! K, 1 and 5th graders will participate in field day from 9:30-11:00 while 2, 3, 4 grades will participate from 12:30-2:00. We are looking for 10 volunteers in the a.m. shift and 10 in the afternoon shift. If you can help, please contact Kimmy at kimmy@easystreet.net. Thank you!
WILSON HIGH SCHOOL PRESCHOOL - Now Enrolling for 2009 - 2010 School Year. The Wilson High School Preschool is now enrolling for the Fall 09' school year. We offer a comprehensive part-day preschool program that is taught by Wilson High School students taking Child Psychology and Preschool Teaching Lab Courses. Each day High School Students create and implement preschool lessons to 24 preschoolers (3 to 5 year olds). This program is managed by a Preschool Director and Certified Teacher.
Rates for September 2009 through June 2010:
Monday (8:30am-11:30am) and Wednesdays (10:30am-1:30pm): $200 per month
Tuesday (8:30am-11:30am) and Thursdays (8:30-11:30am): $200 per month
Monday-Thursday: $400 per month
For more information, please contact Erica Meyers emeyers@pps.k12.or.us
SPECIAL EDUCATION PARENT SURVEY - As part of the Special Education audit, Pat Steinburg worked with the SPEAC (Special Education Advisory Council) and the IEP Partners Program to develop a parent survey that will provide valuable input. The web-based survey is now posted on the Special Education home page at http://www.sped.pps.k12.or.us/ It is translated into six languages and available on the web for parents to fill out. Please post the flyers in a prominent location and encourage special education parents to provide us their important input to our audit process.
REGISTER FOR K: This year there have been several parents who have indicated that they felt there would not be a pressing reason to enroll for kindergarten soon. But in fact, it would be very advantageous to register as soon as possible. There is no longer a need to put down a deposit for the Fee for Service, (Full Day) program. But having our enrollment numbers be as “up-to-date” as possible will help us have the best program and best teachers be prepared for the fall!
CALENDAR FOR NEXT YEAR - NOTE CHANGES! - There are some important changes for the school calendar next year! The first day of school for First through Fifth graders will be Tuesday, Sept. 8th (the first day after Labor Day weekend), and the first day for Kindergarteners will be Friday, Sept. 11th. ALSO, NOTE THAT THERE WILL BE REGULARLY SCHEDULED LATE OPENINGS FOR ALL SCHOOLS IN PORTLAND! On the third Wednesday morning of each month, except November, there will be a two hour late opening; Maplewood will begin at 10:00 that morning, instead of 8:00! This is part of a district-wide calendar recently approved by the School Board; these late opening hours were to replace the usual full-day Professional Development days (three) that were dropped from next year’s calendar. The calendar for trimester schools such as Maplewood can be found at http://www.pps.k12.or.us/news/events.php (click on trimester calendar).
LAST DAY OF SCHOOL - Our official last day for students this year is Wednesday, June 10th (it was originally scheduled to be the day before, but one day was added to help make up for some of the snow days).
Upcoming Events:
May 25 - NO SCHOOL – Memorial Day
May 27 - Field Day
May 30 - Maplewood’s 1st Annual Rummage Sale! 9:00 – 3:00 pm
At Wildwood Preschool/Friends Church
June 3 - Junior Rose Festival Parade
June 4 - 5th Grade vs Staff Basketball Game @ 1:20 pm
June 9 - End of Year Assembly for students, followed by 5th grade
“Promotion” ceremony
June 10 - Last Day for Students!
No School Monday! Memorial Day Holiday
FIELD DAY WEDNESDAY MAY 27TH - Field day is coming up and we need adult volunteers! K, 1 and 5th graders will participate in field day from 9:30-11:00 while 2, 3, 4 grades will participate from 12:30-2:00. We are looking for 10 volunteers in the a.m. shift and 10 in the afternoon shift. If you can help, please contact Kimmy at kimmy@easystreet.net. Thank you!
WILSON HIGH SCHOOL PRESCHOOL - Now Enrolling for 2009 - 2010 School Year. The Wilson High School Preschool is now enrolling for the Fall 09' school year. We offer a comprehensive part-day preschool program that is taught by Wilson High School students taking Child Psychology and Preschool Teaching Lab Courses. Each day High School Students create and implement preschool lessons to 24 preschoolers (3 to 5 year olds). This program is managed by a Preschool Director and Certified Teacher.
Rates for September 2009 through June 2010:
Monday (8:30am-11:30am) and Wednesdays (10:30am-1:30pm): $200 per month
Tuesday (8:30am-11:30am) and Thursdays (8:30-11:30am): $200 per month
Monday-Thursday: $400 per month
For more information, please contact Erica Meyers emeyers@pps.k12.or.us
SPECIAL EDUCATION PARENT SURVEY - As part of the Special Education audit, Pat Steinburg worked with the SPEAC (Special Education Advisory Council) and the IEP Partners Program to develop a parent survey that will provide valuable input. The web-based survey is now posted on the Special Education home page at http://www.sped.pps.k12.or.us/ It is translated into six languages and available on the web for parents to fill out. Please post the flyers in a prominent location and encourage special education parents to provide us their important input to our audit process.
REGISTER FOR K: This year there have been several parents who have indicated that they felt there would not be a pressing reason to enroll for kindergarten soon. But in fact, it would be very advantageous to register as soon as possible. There is no longer a need to put down a deposit for the Fee for Service, (Full Day) program. But having our enrollment numbers be as “up-to-date” as possible will help us have the best program and best teachers be prepared for the fall!
CALENDAR FOR NEXT YEAR - NOTE CHANGES! - There are some important changes for the school calendar next year! The first day of school for First through Fifth graders will be Tuesday, Sept. 8th (the first day after Labor Day weekend), and the first day for Kindergarteners will be Friday, Sept. 11th. ALSO, NOTE THAT THERE WILL BE REGULARLY SCHEDULED LATE OPENINGS FOR ALL SCHOOLS IN PORTLAND! On the third Wednesday morning of each month, except November, there will be a two hour late opening; Maplewood will begin at 10:00 that morning, instead of 8:00! This is part of a district-wide calendar recently approved by the School Board; these late opening hours were to replace the usual full-day Professional Development days (three) that were dropped from next year’s calendar. The calendar for trimester schools such as Maplewood can be found at http://www.pps.k12.or.us/news/events.php (click on trimester calendar).
LAST DAY OF SCHOOL - Our official last day for students this year is Wednesday, June 10th (it was originally scheduled to be the day before, but one day was added to help make up for some of the snow days).
Upcoming Events:
May 25 - NO SCHOOL – Memorial Day
May 27 - Field Day
May 30 - Maplewood’s 1st Annual Rummage Sale! 9:00 – 3:00 pm
At Wildwood Preschool/Friends Church
June 3 - Junior Rose Festival Parade
June 4 - 5th Grade vs Staff Basketball Game @ 1:20 pm
June 9 - End of Year Assembly for students, followed by 5th grade
“Promotion” ceremony
June 10 - Last Day for Students!
Friday, May 15, 2009
Updates for imminent events!
"Run to the Music" on Monday, May 18 . Remember to send your children with running clothes/shoes this Monday! (Weather should be nice!) And please consider helping them to get pledges to help raise money to be able to retain Music for next year. We are very near reaching this goal, but need to come up with close to $5000 to put us over the top (we’ve usually raised this money through a Run every year!). I believe local newspapers are going to come take photos and write a story about this, as part of story about parents raising funds to help out public education.
Meeting with State Legislators Monday at 7:00 - I am going to attend a meeting with Senators Burdick and Bonamici, and Representatives Greenlick and Nolan this Monday, and I’ve been asked to give a very short testimony to them on the effects of budget cuts on a school such as Maplewood. You are welcome to come, signaling with your presence, an indication of the importance you place on educational budgets. It will be held at the Temple Beth-Israel, 1972 NW Flanders St. from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Bike Fair Tomorrow! - Southwest Neighbors Crime Prevention and Public Safety Committee invites you, your family, and your bike to a Bicycle Rodeo and Safety Fair on Saturday, May 16th from 2:00 p.m.-4:00pm at Bridlemile Elementary School, 4300 SW 47th Drive (under the covered basketball court). Please join this committee for a fun-filled afternoon that includes a safety training, bike rodeo for kids and teens, bike swap, and inspection. At this event, participants will learn about the rules of the road, effective signaling, and how to share the road with other vehicles. Kids and teens will navigate their way through an obstacle course and improve riding skills. Attendees are invited to bring their old bikes, accessories to a buyer-direct exchange based on availability with no commissions. Volunteers at the fair will perform inspections of bikes. It's a free event and refreshments will be available. We are also looking for volunteers to help assist with this event. For more information, contact Jan Weston, organizer at 503-293-4301 janweston@comcast.net; Nancy Hand, Committee Chair at 503-452-9483 enchand@hotmail.com.
Field Day Wednesday May 27 Field day is coming up and the parents need adult volunteers! K, 1 and 5th graders will participate in field day from 9:30-11:00 while 2, 3, 4 grades will participate from 12:30-2:00. We are looking for 10 volunteers in the a.m. shift and 10 in the afternoon shift. If you can help, please contact Kimmy at kimmy@easystreet.net. Thank you!
Calendar for Next Year - NOTE Changes! - There are some important changes for the school calendar next year! The first day of school for First through Fifth graders will be Tuesday, Sept. 8th (the first day after Labor Day weekend), and the first day for Kindergarteners will be Friday, Sept. 11th. ALSO, NOTE THAT THERE WILL BE REGULARLY SCHEDULED LATE OPENINGS FOR ALL SCHOOLS IN PORTLAND! On the third Wednesday morning of each month, except November, there will be a two hour late opening; Maplewood will begin at 10:00 that morning, instead of 8:00! This is part of a district-wide calendar recently approved by the School Board; these late opening hours were to replace the usual full-day Professional Development days (three) that were dropped from next year’s calendar. The calendar for trimester schools such as Maplewood can be found at http://www.pps.k12.or.us/news/events.php (click on trimester calendar).
Cafeteria Money Info - Any remaining account balances (positive or negative) on students’ meal accounts at the end of the year will be automatically held for students at their current school or transferred to students’ new schools within the district. If your student is leaving the district, then you may call Marci, our Cafeteria Lead at503-916-5219 to arrange for a refund.
Free and Reduced Lunches - I want to remind people that applying for Free or Reduced Lunch assistance can be done at any time during the year. If you believe that you may qualify for this assistance due to your income now, you can get an application through the school office. I believe, by the way, that school lunches will increase by 10 cents starting next fall.
"TAG Parent 101: For Parents of Newly-Identified Children" Wed, May 20, 2009 - BESC - Board Room - 7-8:30 PM All PPS parents and the general Portland community are invited to attend this meeting for an opportunity to have your questions regarding the TAG identification process answered, and what programs and services are available for your child. More TAG Info, including this message, can be found at http://www.tag.pps.k12.or.us/.docs/pg/10597
Register for K: This year there have been several parents who have indicated that they felt there would not be a pressing reason to enroll for kindergarten soon. But in fact, it would be very advantageous to register as soon as possible. There is no longer a need to put down a deposit for the Fee for Service, (Full Day) program. But having our enrollment numbers be as "up-to-date" as possible will help us have the best program and best teachers be prepared for the fall!
Wish list - We could use some help with stitching up about 4 tears in our stage curtain.
Future Events
May Lifeskills Theme = Responsibility
Mon. May 18 - "Run to the Music!"
Mon. May 25 - NO SCHOOL Memorial Day
June 3 (Weds) Junior Rose Festival Parade
June 4 - Staff vs. 5th graders Basketball Game 1:20 in gym
June 9 - 12:30 End of Year Assembly for students, followed by 5th grader "Graduation" ceremony
Meeting with State Legislators Monday at 7:00 - I am going to attend a meeting with Senators Burdick and Bonamici, and Representatives Greenlick and Nolan this Monday, and I’ve been asked to give a very short testimony to them on the effects of budget cuts on a school such as Maplewood. You are welcome to come, signaling with your presence, an indication of the importance you place on educational budgets. It will be held at the Temple Beth-Israel, 1972 NW Flanders St. from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Bike Fair Tomorrow! - Southwest Neighbors Crime Prevention and Public Safety Committee invites you, your family, and your bike to a Bicycle Rodeo and Safety Fair on Saturday, May 16th from 2:00 p.m.-4:00pm at Bridlemile Elementary School, 4300 SW 47th Drive (under the covered basketball court). Please join this committee for a fun-filled afternoon that includes a safety training, bike rodeo for kids and teens, bike swap, and inspection. At this event, participants will learn about the rules of the road, effective signaling, and how to share the road with other vehicles. Kids and teens will navigate their way through an obstacle course and improve riding skills. Attendees are invited to bring their old bikes, accessories to a buyer-direct exchange based on availability with no commissions. Volunteers at the fair will perform inspections of bikes. It's a free event and refreshments will be available. We are also looking for volunteers to help assist with this event. For more information, contact Jan Weston, organizer at 503-293-4301 janweston@comcast.net; Nancy Hand, Committee Chair at 503-452-9483 enchand@hotmail.com.
Field Day Wednesday May 27 Field day is coming up and the parents need adult volunteers! K, 1 and 5th graders will participate in field day from 9:30-11:00 while 2, 3, 4 grades will participate from 12:30-2:00. We are looking for 10 volunteers in the a.m. shift and 10 in the afternoon shift. If you can help, please contact Kimmy at kimmy@easystreet.net. Thank you!
Calendar for Next Year - NOTE Changes! - There are some important changes for the school calendar next year! The first day of school for First through Fifth graders will be Tuesday, Sept. 8th (the first day after Labor Day weekend), and the first day for Kindergarteners will be Friday, Sept. 11th. ALSO, NOTE THAT THERE WILL BE REGULARLY SCHEDULED LATE OPENINGS FOR ALL SCHOOLS IN PORTLAND! On the third Wednesday morning of each month, except November, there will be a two hour late opening; Maplewood will begin at 10:00 that morning, instead of 8:00! This is part of a district-wide calendar recently approved by the School Board; these late opening hours were to replace the usual full-day Professional Development days (three) that were dropped from next year’s calendar. The calendar for trimester schools such as Maplewood can be found at http://www.pps.k12.or.us/news/events.php (click on trimester calendar).
Cafeteria Money Info - Any remaining account balances (positive or negative) on students’ meal accounts at the end of the year will be automatically held for students at their current school or transferred to students’ new schools within the district. If your student is leaving the district, then you may call Marci, our Cafeteria Lead at503-916-5219 to arrange for a refund.
Free and Reduced Lunches - I want to remind people that applying for Free or Reduced Lunch assistance can be done at any time during the year. If you believe that you may qualify for this assistance due to your income now, you can get an application through the school office. I believe, by the way, that school lunches will increase by 10 cents starting next fall.
"TAG Parent 101: For Parents of Newly-Identified Children" Wed, May 20, 2009 - BESC - Board Room - 7-8:30 PM All PPS parents and the general Portland community are invited to attend this meeting for an opportunity to have your questions regarding the TAG identification process answered, and what programs and services are available for your child. More TAG Info, including this message, can be found at http://www.tag.pps.k12.or.us/.docs/pg/10597
Register for K: This year there have been several parents who have indicated that they felt there would not be a pressing reason to enroll for kindergarten soon. But in fact, it would be very advantageous to register as soon as possible. There is no longer a need to put down a deposit for the Fee for Service, (Full Day) program. But having our enrollment numbers be as "up-to-date" as possible will help us have the best program and best teachers be prepared for the fall!
Wish list - We could use some help with stitching up about 4 tears in our stage curtain.
Future Events
May Lifeskills Theme = Responsibility
Mon. May 18 - "Run to the Music!"
Mon. May 25 - NO SCHOOL Memorial Day
June 3 (Weds) Junior Rose Festival Parade
June 4 - Staff vs. 5th graders Basketball Game 1:20 in gym
June 9 - 12:30 End of Year Assembly for students, followed by 5th grader "Graduation" ceremony
Wednesday, May 06, 2009
Principal Notes 5-6-09
MAPLEWOOD FLAG – Did you know that we have a stitched flag made for us several years ago by parent Joan Wallace? We have people take this flag to special places all over the globe. Would you like to take it to a special place and have a photo taken (as an example, photo above was taken at President Obama’s Inauguration). This flag has been to the North Pole, South Pole, various places in Europe, and to the top of Mt. St. Helens, among other locations. Please let the office know if you would like to take the flag at any point; we have a calendar set up to coordinate it's trips!KAISER OFFERS FREE HEALTH INSURANCE FOR KIDS - Kaiser Permanente, in partnership with schools and the Multnomah Education Service District, is offering free health insurance to grade K-6 children attending Multnomah County public schools. The insurance is free — there is no premium — but families must pay a small co-pay for office visits and prescriptions. Once enrolled, children are covered through age 19 if they remain in school. To qualify, children must meet three main requirements:
Attend school – Children must attend a public school in Multnomah County. Charter schools and publicly funded alternative programs also qualify.
Grades K-6 – To enroll, children must be in grades K-6. Siblings can also be covered if they are age 3 or older (through 12th grade).
Income – Families must earn 250 percent or less of the federal poverty level. For a family of four, this is about $4,600 per month, or $53,000 per year.
Kaiser offers the insurance as part of its community benefit program, which, among other goals, seeks to expand access to medical care for the uninsured. About 4,000 children already are covered through this no-premium plan; Kaiser and MESD want to double enrollment by the end of the year. In addition to the Kaiser insurance, the Oregon Health Plan offers low-cost health insurance to children from families that earn up to 185 percent of the federal poverty level. According to the latest census data, 107,000 Oregon children — about one in nine — lacked health insurance in 2005-07, the latest period for which data are available.
For questions about the Kaiser program or the Oregon Health Plan, or to enroll, contact MESD: 503-257-1732, speterso@mesd.k12.or.us.
NOTES COMING FROM THE PARENT MEETINGS WITH PRINCIPAL - “Everything You’ve Wanted to Know About Maplewood But Were Afraid to Ask” was held twice this year; my goal is to write some notes about the questions and then post them on the website and to update my blog site so that people can see them! I appreciated the parent participation and their questions!
APRIL 24 – BOOKBAGGERS - My congratulations go to David Dacklin for his detailed, thoughtful organization of this great event. One of our honored station hosts was Pepye Ladd, who actually began this activity 25 years ago! We were sorry to hear that this may be the last year in which she will be able to participate, as she is keeping so busy with family and community activities. I have attended all these events since the 2001 event, and am continually amazed and pleased to see the community involvement and the emphasis on children and children’s literature.
Attend school – Children must attend a public school in Multnomah County. Charter schools and publicly funded alternative programs also qualify.
Grades K-6 – To enroll, children must be in grades K-6. Siblings can also be covered if they are age 3 or older (through 12th grade).
Income – Families must earn 250 percent or less of the federal poverty level. For a family of four, this is about $4,600 per month, or $53,000 per year.
Kaiser offers the insurance as part of its community benefit program, which, among other goals, seeks to expand access to medical care for the uninsured. About 4,000 children already are covered through this no-premium plan; Kaiser and MESD want to double enrollment by the end of the year. In addition to the Kaiser insurance, the Oregon Health Plan offers low-cost health insurance to children from families that earn up to 185 percent of the federal poverty level. According to the latest census data, 107,000 Oregon children — about one in nine — lacked health insurance in 2005-07, the latest period for which data are available.
For questions about the Kaiser program or the Oregon Health Plan, or to enroll, contact MESD: 503-257-1732, speterso@mesd.k12.or.us.
NOTES COMING FROM THE PARENT MEETINGS WITH PRINCIPAL - “Everything You’ve Wanted to Know About Maplewood But Were Afraid to Ask” was held twice this year; my goal is to write some notes about the questions and then post them on the website and to update my blog site so that people can see them! I appreciated the parent participation and their questions!
APRIL 24 – BOOKBAGGERS - My congratulations go to David Dacklin for his detailed, thoughtful organization of this great event. One of our honored station hosts was Pepye Ladd, who actually began this activity 25 years ago! We were sorry to hear that this may be the last year in which she will be able to participate, as she is keeping so busy with family and community activities. I have attended all these events since the 2001 event, and am continually amazed and pleased to see the community involvement and the emphasis on children and children’s literature.
BIKE FAIR - Southwest Neighbors Crime Prevention and Public Safety Committee invites you, your family, and your bike to a Bicycle Rodeo and Safety Fair on Saturday, May 16th from 2:00 p.m.-4:00pm at Bridlemile Elementary School, 4300 SW 47th Drive (under the covered basketball court). Please join this committee for a fun-filled afternoon that includes a safety training, bike rodeo for kids and teens, bike swap, and inspection. At this event, participants will learn about the rules of the road, effective signaling, and how to share the road with other vehicles. Kids and teens will navigate their way through an obstacle course and improve riding skills. Attendees are invited to bring their old bikes, accessories to a buyer-direct exchange based on availability with no commissions. Volunteers at the fair will perform inspections of bikes. It's a free event and refreshments will be available. We are also looking for volunteers to help assist with this event. For more information, contact Jan Weston, organizer at 503-293-4301 janweston@comcast.net; Nancy Hand, Committee Chair at 503-452-9483 enchand@hotmail.com.
SWINE FLU - Like many of you, I have been watching the news reports about swine flu, and today received this message from PPS, which I think covers the most important messages. I've cut and pasted it below:
Swine flu information
As you have likely heard so often, please take this opportunity to remind your children and others about the following prevention measures:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
- Stay home if you are sick. Influenza is most often passed through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
A PARENT'S CONTRIBUTION TO THE ARTS (from an article in the Wilson H.S. Newsletter) - (Dave Garnand is an ex-member of our Maplewood Site Council)
Ever wondered where our young students get their talent? Just look at our parents. A perfect example is David Garnand (photographer) - parent of Isaac (Wilson), Tom Wilson), and Isabelle (Maplewood), and husband of Liz Garnand, president of Wilson Area Arts Council. David's first solo abstract nature photography show opened last weekend at Multnomah Arts Center and runs through May 27 (MAC Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-9:30pm and Saturday 9am-12:30pm). In addition to this exhibition, two of David's photographs were selected by the Lake Oswego Festival of the Arts 2009 Artist's Vision Juried Show, and he also generously donated one of his photographs for the recent Wilson Auction. David states that his dad always had a camera with him when they traveled. "He loved taking scenic pictures, vistas, beautiful nature scenes. When he gave me his Kodak Instamatic I looked through the viewfinder and saw a whole other world." So stop by the Multnomah Arts Center and take a look at David's exhibit. Check out his website at: http://www.davidgarnand.com. Congratulations, David!
REGISTER FOR K - This year there have been several parents who have indicated that they felt there would not be a pressing reason to enroll for kindergarten soon. But in fact, it would be very advantageous to register as soon as possible. There is no longer a need to put down a deposit for the Fee for Service, (Full Day) program. But having our enrollment numbers be as “up-to-date” as possible will help us have the best program and best teachers be prepared for the fall!
WISH LIST - We could use some help with repairing our stage curtain. We have received offers to help with rebuilding stairs to stage and re-painting the benches.
Upcoming Events:
May 4-8 - Teacher Appreciation Week
May 7 - Book Sale, Party Boards, and Hanging Plant Pick-
Up (Picnic only if weather is nice) 5:00 – 7:30 pm
May 8 - Family Dance Party in the gym 6:00 pm
May 13 - PTA Meeting 6:15 pm
May 18 - “Run to the Music”
May 25 - NO SCHOOL – Memorial Day
May 27 - Field Day
June 3 - Junior Rose Festival Parade
June 4 - 5th Grade vs Staff Basketball Game
June 10 - Last Day for Students!
May 4-8 - Teacher Appreciation Week
May 7 - Book Sale, Party Boards, and Hanging Plant Pick-
Up (Picnic only if weather is nice) 5:00 – 7:30 pm
May 8 - Family Dance Party in the gym 6:00 pm
May 13 - PTA Meeting 6:15 pm
May 18 - “Run to the Music”
May 25 - NO SCHOOL – Memorial Day
May 27 - Field Day
June 3 - Junior Rose Festival Parade
June 4 - 5th Grade vs Staff Basketball Game
June 10 - Last Day for Students!
Summer - Installation of new modular with two classrooms
Plan to Save Music Program at Maplewood
Update on Maplewood Staffing and Fundraising Efforts:
I want to let you know that I turned in my staffing requests, based on what the district allotted me for that staffing equivalent (“FTE”). There is some good news and some worrisome news for us.
The Worrisome News:
q Updated budget restraints in the present economy has meant that we do not at the present time have enough FTE or funds to be able to retain Music for next year.
q The State of Oregon grant to continue our Full-time P.E. teacher was eliminated.
q Although we have raised a great deal through our Annual Campaign, there has been a smaller percentage of families this year who contributed any amount to the campaign.
The Good News:
q Our enrollment was based on how many students I believe we will enroll next year, which helps our amount of FTE. Our enrollment is at its highest level.
q Our Foundation funds enabled us to retain half-time P.E.
q The District committed to having at least three specialist sessions per child per week, including requirements for Library and P.E. They added some FTE for us to be able to retain Computer Lab.
q Our FTE will allow us to add a third class for First Grade for next year to keep the class numbers for this year’s large number of Kindergarteners.
q We are only about $9000 away from being able to keep Music, which our parents feel is very possible to obtain through added focus on Scrip, Campaign, and a different focus on our Run in May.
OUR PLAN? Renewed Focus on Saving Music at Maplewood -
q Renew efforts to raise money at no cost to families by increasing participation in Scrip. We don’t need people to spend more money, we just need more people to purchase scrip.
q Renew our message to families who have not made a pledge to our campaign that to purchase scrip.
q “Party Boards” and Family Dance Night fundraising this week will add to our goal.
q Renew our message to families who have not made a pledge to our campaign that any amount, no matter how small, can make a big difference. We have about 230 families here, and only about 45 families have made a contribution so far.
q Instead of having our usual Young Audience “Run for the Arts”, we are going to host our own “Run to the Music” on Monday, May 18 . Organizing this ourselves will let us keep overhead costs to “zero”, and all pledges raised will go to our fund to pay for keeping music here.
I am confident, as are the parent coordinators, that we can make this goal, and be able to provide Music, Computer/Technology, Library, and P.E. to our students. Watch for the information coming from our parent coordinators on how each part of our plan will work! We don’t have much time, but the end result will surely be worth it to the students!
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Principal Notes 4-09-09
SCHOOL IN SESSION AT MAPLEWOOD TOMORROW
In order to make up one of the snow day cancellations, Maplewood will have school this Friday, April 10th.
BYE BYE BIRDIE AT ROBERT GRAY MIDDLE SCHOOL - Be sure to get your tickets for the musical Bye Bye Birdie at Gray coming this April 30 (6:30pm), May 1 (7:00pm) & May 2 (2:00pm). The student actors and crew have been rehearsing every Monday - Thursday and some Saturdays to bring you a quality theatrical experience. Tickets are $5 for students & seniors, $7 for adults, $20 for a family 4-pack, and $10 for reserved seating. Order your tickets by contacting Christy Caton at christycaton@msn.com, or by calling 503-246-0891. Plus, Salvador Molly's will reimburse your ticket price with a free Cheesy Poof appetizer when you bring your ticket stub in to their Hillsdale location! Thank you! Christy Caton - RGMS parent, BBB Producer, PPS teacher
********************************************************************
Parent Meeting with Principal #2:
“Everything You’ve Wanted to Know About Maplewood But Were Afraid to Ask”
Tues April 28th 6:00 to 8:00
Maplewood Library
- Childcare provided by 2 Art4Life Staff in cafeteria -
This parents-only meeting with me is another chance to exchange information between you and I on any subject you’d like to discuss. Examples of questions could be “What should I do when my child says they don’t want to come to school?”, or ”How do you make decisions about budget cuts?”, or “How do you choose the class placements?”, or other subjects you choose.
To help me plan the best, please send me the questions you’d most like to have answered before the meeting (either by email, or drop off a note to me, or just pass on to me when you see me).
*********************************************************************
REGISTER FOR K - This year there have been several parents who have indicated that they felt there would not be a pressing reason to enroll for kindergarten soon. But in fact, it would be very advantageous to register as soon as possible. There is no longer a need to put down a deposit for the Fee for Service, (Full Day) program. But having our enrollment numbers be as “up-to-date” as possible will help us have the best program and best teachers be prepared for the fall!
BUILDING TAG PLAN - Between now and June 1st, I will be required to turn in a “Building TAG Plan”, and I welcome your input into what this plan includes. This plan is to include documentation of what we do here to address Talented and Gifted students’ rate and level of learning. You can write me or send me information about your input and ideas; a draft version of the TAG Plan is posted on the TAG bulleting board across the hall from the library door in school.
WALK TO SCHOOL DAY – On Thursday, April 23rd, our Safe Routes to School representatives are going to hold another Walk to School Day, and this time will have Portland Mounted Police and their horses to help with one of the routes.
WISH LIST – We could use some help with repairing our stage curtain, and with re-painting the benches in the gym. I also have wondered if someone could help us replace the moveable stairway from the gym floor to the stage (it had to be completely dismantled).
In order to make up one of the snow day cancellations, Maplewood will have school this Friday, April 10th.
BYE BYE BIRDIE AT ROBERT GRAY MIDDLE SCHOOL - Be sure to get your tickets for the musical Bye Bye Birdie at Gray coming this April 30 (6:30pm), May 1 (7:00pm) & May 2 (2:00pm). The student actors and crew have been rehearsing every Monday - Thursday and some Saturdays to bring you a quality theatrical experience. Tickets are $5 for students & seniors, $7 for adults, $20 for a family 4-pack, and $10 for reserved seating. Order your tickets by contacting Christy Caton at christycaton@msn.com, or by calling 503-246-0891. Plus, Salvador Molly's will reimburse your ticket price with a free Cheesy Poof appetizer when you bring your ticket stub in to their Hillsdale location! Thank you! Christy Caton - RGMS parent, BBB Producer, PPS teacher
********************************************************************
Parent Meeting with Principal #2:
“Everything You’ve Wanted to Know About Maplewood But Were Afraid to Ask”
Tues April 28th 6:00 to 8:00
Maplewood Library
- Childcare provided by 2 Art4Life Staff in cafeteria -
This parents-only meeting with me is another chance to exchange information between you and I on any subject you’d like to discuss. Examples of questions could be “What should I do when my child says they don’t want to come to school?”, or ”How do you make decisions about budget cuts?”, or “How do you choose the class placements?”, or other subjects you choose.
To help me plan the best, please send me the questions you’d most like to have answered before the meeting (either by email, or drop off a note to me, or just pass on to me when you see me).
*********************************************************************
REGISTER FOR K - This year there have been several parents who have indicated that they felt there would not be a pressing reason to enroll for kindergarten soon. But in fact, it would be very advantageous to register as soon as possible. There is no longer a need to put down a deposit for the Fee for Service, (Full Day) program. But having our enrollment numbers be as “up-to-date” as possible will help us have the best program and best teachers be prepared for the fall!
BUILDING TAG PLAN - Between now and June 1st, I will be required to turn in a “Building TAG Plan”, and I welcome your input into what this plan includes. This plan is to include documentation of what we do here to address Talented and Gifted students’ rate and level of learning. You can write me or send me information about your input and ideas; a draft version of the TAG Plan is posted on the TAG bulleting board across the hall from the library door in school.
WALK TO SCHOOL DAY – On Thursday, April 23rd, our Safe Routes to School representatives are going to hold another Walk to School Day, and this time will have Portland Mounted Police and their horses to help with one of the routes.
WISH LIST – We could use some help with repairing our stage curtain, and with re-painting the benches in the gym. I also have wondered if someone could help us replace the moveable stairway from the gym floor to the stage (it had to be completely dismantled).
Friday, October 17, 2008
Principal Notes Oct. 17, 2008
NO SCHOOL NEXT FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24TH
This is a District-wide Professional Development Day, and school offices will be closed!
GRANDPARENTS/SPECIAL FRIENDS - WHEN: Grandparents or special friends can come to Maplewood on Thursday, Oct. 23rd. A ceremony will be held starting at 12:30 p.m. in the gym. WHO: Grandparents or Special Friends of your child. Space is limited for the performance and in the room, so it is usual to have one or two people come (but we don’t have room for the “whole family”. WHAT: The student musical performance will be in the gym, and we ask all attendees to stay until the end; after the program in the gym is finished, the adults can go back to the classroom with the students to visit there and see the classrooms; hint: we’ll let our guests all leave school by 2:00 p.m. to avoid the usual traffic jams at the dismissal time at the end of the day. (If you want your child to leave school with someone different than we have on file, or to leave early, we must have a note from you or the hot pink permission slip turned in!) Come enjoy the children, and hear praises for you as their Special Friends or Grandparents! The kids love to see you here!
MAPLEWOOD AWARDED FUNDS FROM INTEL - I received this message today from Intel: I am pleased to inform you that Intel volunteers invested 259 hours at Maplewood Elementary during the 2007-2008 school year, earning your school a $2590 grant from the Intel Foundation through the Volunteer Matching Grant (VMG) program. I want to congratulate you and your volunteers on this wonderful investment of time. A big thanks goes to Scott Noble, Christina Foulger, and Slobodan Mrdjan who donated a great amount of volunteer time, which earned us this funding amount which I’m putting in a discretionary account until we decide where to allocate these funds! If you know of other Intel employees, please remind them.
COSTUME PARADE - FRIDAY, OCT. 31ST - again be the day when children can bring costumes to school to wear in an afternoon parade. Students will put on costumes after lunch, and begin the parade at 12:45 p.m. on the playground (in the gym if poor weather). To make this a safe, enjoyable event for everyone, make sure that the costumes are: SAFE (they shouldn’t restrict vision or trip them up; also, absolutely no fake or real weapons should be brought for this school affair) and APPROPRIATE FOR THEIR AGE (no revealing, bloody, or violent costumes) and CONVENIENT (so the student doesn’t have to be stressed about the time limits to get dressed; they will not be allowed to put on costumes until right after lunch).
LIFESKILLS - The Lifelong Guidelines are the behavior guidelines that our school community will be practicing this year. These five guidelines (Trustworthiness, Truthfulness, Active Listening, No Put-Downs, and Personal Best) are based upon a respect for others and self and provide a safe environment in which learning can take place. The specific Lifeskill that our school focused on in October was Active Listening. Some of the ways that we can explore the Lifeskill of Active Listening include:
• Practice note-taking skills
• Listening to different forms of music
• Listing the characteristics of an active listener
• Attending an in-school or community performance and practicing active listening skills
In addition to modeling Active Listening for your child, there are ways that parents can help improve their children’s listening skills. You can support your child by:
• Reading aloud increasingly longer stories, staring with picture books and working up to chapter books and asking him/her to share what pictures come to mind as the story progresses
• Asking him/her to retell and evaluate TV programs
• Providing opportunities for your child to remember and follow increasingly difficult, multi- step instructions
• Identifying nature sounds during a walk in the woods, park, or while strolling along the beach
TAG PARENT INFORMATION SESSION - On Weds. Oct. 29th, from 7:00 to 8:00 at Wilson High School, I will be hosting an informational meeting for parents wanting to learn more about TAG identification and instruction. We will be meeting at Wilson with the parents from all the other Wilson Cluster Schools for a joint meeting, and then we’ll follow this with “bread-out” sessions for each individual school to meet with the Principal and ask more specific questions. Roxanne Coleman, a representative from the district’s TAG office, will be present to offer information and answer questions.
DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIALS TO YOU - It is the policy of the Board of Education to allow organizations that provide educational, athletic or training services or opportunities for children to send information home to students on a schedule established by the school. The Board adopted this policy and the Superintendent has developed an accompanying administrative directive because there is a vast array of excellent community opportunities available to supplement your child’s education, and we want you to be aware of these opportunities.
However, once we decide to allow this type of information to be distributed, state and federal law prohibit Portland Public Schools from restricting certain information based on the viewpoint of the group distributing information. This means that from time to time you may receive materials from a group that holds values that may offend some of our families. You will want to review this material closely to determine if it presents an opportunity in which you want your child to participate.
The organizations providing this information are not endorsed or sponsore6308d by Portland Public Schools. District policy prohibits discrimination on the basis of age, color, creed, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, and sexual orientation (BP 1.80.020). Not all outside organizations comply with the District’s non-discrimination policy. Again, families are strongly encouraged to review all materials closely (3.30.038-AD).
Maplewood has made the decision to distribute materials on Fridays.
From time to time, items may be placed on the Community Information Display Area, where items will be available to students and families. Organizations that choose this mode of distribution will have the opportunity to display their items in this designated area for two months.
If you have any questions regarding this policy or the administrative directive (3.30.038-AD), it is available on the web at www.pps.k12.or.us (click Board of Education, then Policies). You may also contact our office at 503-916-6308.
CONFERENCE SCHEDULING OR RE-SCHEDULING – I have become worried again this year that an unusually high number of parents may have scheduled family vacations during the days that school is cancelled for parent/teacher conferences and Thanksgiving Holiday Nov. 24 through Dec. 1st. I have requested that if a conference is not held that week due to family vacation plans:
• that the conference not be re-scheduled, but
• that any conference information be sent home after the conference week for parents’ information.
My concern is that re-scheduled conferences take more teacher time, which affect teachers’ planning time (the time that they use for valuable curriculum and lesson planning that affects all students). If the conference can’t be held for unavoidable reasons, please contact the teacher for re-scheduling; however, if it is for avoidable reasons such as vacations, please do not request a different meeting time.
Also, because of the high numbers of students here and the limited times for conferences, I’m also asking that conferences with divorced/separated parents be held when both parents can attend at the same time. It helps with healthy communication to have both parents discuss the child with the teacher together.
LOST AND FOUND - We are setting a record for number of clothing items that are “lost” and then put in our “Found” area (at the top of the cafeteria stairs near the Kindergarten room in 101). It is a huge pile, and usually if filled with clothes that the kids forget somewhere, and with clothes that don’t have any name written on them anywhere. I would strongly suggest that you put your child’s name on the clothing somewhere (on the label, e.g.); also, please make sure you or your child check there for any lost clothing items.
Upcoming Events:
Oct 17 - Maplewood Carnival!
Oct 21 - Kindergarten Vision/Dental Screening
Oct 23 - Grandparents/Special Friends Day at 12:30 pm
Oct 24 - NO SCHOOL – Professional Development Day
Oct 28 - 1st grade Vision/Dental Screening
Oct 29 - TAG Parent Meeting at Wilson High School 7 to 8 pm
Oct 31 - Sally Foster Orders Due
Oct 31 - Costume Parade 12:45 pm
Nov 10 - NO SCHOOL – Teacher Planning Day
Nov 11 - NO SCHOOL – Veteran’s Day
This is a District-wide Professional Development Day, and school offices will be closed!
GRANDPARENTS/SPECIAL FRIENDS - WHEN: Grandparents or special friends can come to Maplewood on Thursday, Oct. 23rd. A ceremony will be held starting at 12:30 p.m. in the gym. WHO: Grandparents or Special Friends of your child. Space is limited for the performance and in the room, so it is usual to have one or two people come (but we don’t have room for the “whole family”. WHAT: The student musical performance will be in the gym, and we ask all attendees to stay until the end; after the program in the gym is finished, the adults can go back to the classroom with the students to visit there and see the classrooms; hint: we’ll let our guests all leave school by 2:00 p.m. to avoid the usual traffic jams at the dismissal time at the end of the day. (If you want your child to leave school with someone different than we have on file, or to leave early, we must have a note from you or the hot pink permission slip turned in!) Come enjoy the children, and hear praises for you as their Special Friends or Grandparents! The kids love to see you here!
MAPLEWOOD AWARDED FUNDS FROM INTEL - I received this message today from Intel: I am pleased to inform you that Intel volunteers invested 259 hours at Maplewood Elementary during the 2007-2008 school year, earning your school a $2590 grant from the Intel Foundation through the Volunteer Matching Grant (VMG) program. I want to congratulate you and your volunteers on this wonderful investment of time. A big thanks goes to Scott Noble, Christina Foulger, and Slobodan Mrdjan who donated a great amount of volunteer time, which earned us this funding amount which I’m putting in a discretionary account until we decide where to allocate these funds! If you know of other Intel employees, please remind them.
COSTUME PARADE - FRIDAY, OCT. 31ST - again be the day when children can bring costumes to school to wear in an afternoon parade. Students will put on costumes after lunch, and begin the parade at 12:45 p.m. on the playground (in the gym if poor weather). To make this a safe, enjoyable event for everyone, make sure that the costumes are: SAFE (they shouldn’t restrict vision or trip them up; also, absolutely no fake or real weapons should be brought for this school affair) and APPROPRIATE FOR THEIR AGE (no revealing, bloody, or violent costumes) and CONVENIENT (so the student doesn’t have to be stressed about the time limits to get dressed; they will not be allowed to put on costumes until right after lunch).
LIFESKILLS - The Lifelong Guidelines are the behavior guidelines that our school community will be practicing this year. These five guidelines (Trustworthiness, Truthfulness, Active Listening, No Put-Downs, and Personal Best) are based upon a respect for others and self and provide a safe environment in which learning can take place. The specific Lifeskill that our school focused on in October was Active Listening. Some of the ways that we can explore the Lifeskill of Active Listening include:
• Practice note-taking skills
• Listening to different forms of music
• Listing the characteristics of an active listener
• Attending an in-school or community performance and practicing active listening skills
In addition to modeling Active Listening for your child, there are ways that parents can help improve their children’s listening skills. You can support your child by:
• Reading aloud increasingly longer stories, staring with picture books and working up to chapter books and asking him/her to share what pictures come to mind as the story progresses
• Asking him/her to retell and evaluate TV programs
• Providing opportunities for your child to remember and follow increasingly difficult, multi- step instructions
• Identifying nature sounds during a walk in the woods, park, or while strolling along the beach
TAG PARENT INFORMATION SESSION - On Weds. Oct. 29th, from 7:00 to 8:00 at Wilson High School, I will be hosting an informational meeting for parents wanting to learn more about TAG identification and instruction. We will be meeting at Wilson with the parents from all the other Wilson Cluster Schools for a joint meeting, and then we’ll follow this with “bread-out” sessions for each individual school to meet with the Principal and ask more specific questions. Roxanne Coleman, a representative from the district’s TAG office, will be present to offer information and answer questions.
DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIALS TO YOU - It is the policy of the Board of Education to allow organizations that provide educational, athletic or training services or opportunities for children to send information home to students on a schedule established by the school. The Board adopted this policy and the Superintendent has developed an accompanying administrative directive because there is a vast array of excellent community opportunities available to supplement your child’s education, and we want you to be aware of these opportunities.
However, once we decide to allow this type of information to be distributed, state and federal law prohibit Portland Public Schools from restricting certain information based on the viewpoint of the group distributing information. This means that from time to time you may receive materials from a group that holds values that may offend some of our families. You will want to review this material closely to determine if it presents an opportunity in which you want your child to participate.
The organizations providing this information are not endorsed or sponsore6308d by Portland Public Schools. District policy prohibits discrimination on the basis of age, color, creed, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, and sexual orientation (BP 1.80.020). Not all outside organizations comply with the District’s non-discrimination policy. Again, families are strongly encouraged to review all materials closely (3.30.038-AD).
Maplewood has made the decision to distribute materials on Fridays.
From time to time, items may be placed on the Community Information Display Area, where items will be available to students and families. Organizations that choose this mode of distribution will have the opportunity to display their items in this designated area for two months.
If you have any questions regarding this policy or the administrative directive (3.30.038-AD), it is available on the web at www.pps.k12.or.us (click Board of Education, then Policies). You may also contact our office at 503-916-6308.
CONFERENCE SCHEDULING OR RE-SCHEDULING – I have become worried again this year that an unusually high number of parents may have scheduled family vacations during the days that school is cancelled for parent/teacher conferences and Thanksgiving Holiday Nov. 24 through Dec. 1st. I have requested that if a conference is not held that week due to family vacation plans:
• that the conference not be re-scheduled, but
• that any conference information be sent home after the conference week for parents’ information.
My concern is that re-scheduled conferences take more teacher time, which affect teachers’ planning time (the time that they use for valuable curriculum and lesson planning that affects all students). If the conference can’t be held for unavoidable reasons, please contact the teacher for re-scheduling; however, if it is for avoidable reasons such as vacations, please do not request a different meeting time.
Also, because of the high numbers of students here and the limited times for conferences, I’m also asking that conferences with divorced/separated parents be held when both parents can attend at the same time. It helps with healthy communication to have both parents discuss the child with the teacher together.
LOST AND FOUND - We are setting a record for number of clothing items that are “lost” and then put in our “Found” area (at the top of the cafeteria stairs near the Kindergarten room in 101). It is a huge pile, and usually if filled with clothes that the kids forget somewhere, and with clothes that don’t have any name written on them anywhere. I would strongly suggest that you put your child’s name on the clothing somewhere (on the label, e.g.); also, please make sure you or your child check there for any lost clothing items.
Upcoming Events:
Oct 17 - Maplewood Carnival!
Oct 21 - Kindergarten Vision/Dental Screening
Oct 23 - Grandparents/Special Friends Day at 12:30 pm
Oct 24 - NO SCHOOL – Professional Development Day
Oct 28 - 1st grade Vision/Dental Screening
Oct 29 - TAG Parent Meeting at Wilson High School 7 to 8 pm
Oct 31 - Sally Foster Orders Due
Oct 31 - Costume Parade 12:45 pm
Nov 10 - NO SCHOOL – Teacher Planning Day
Nov 11 - NO SCHOOL – Veteran’s Day
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
SOME SCHEDULED EVENTS FOR '08-'09
Dear Community, We have not yet scheduled ALL the events as yet, but here are ones that I know about at this point:
Future Events
October Lifeskills Theme – Active Listening
10/2 Picture Day.
10/08 Walk/Bike to School Day.
10/10 NO SCHOOL - Statewide In-Service Day
10/17 Carnival.
10/23 Grandparents/Special Friends Day.
10/24 NO SCHOOL - Professional Development Day
10/29 TAG Parent Meeting (to be held at Wilson H.S. 7 to 8 p.m.)
10/31 (Friday) Costume Parade.
November Lifeskills Theme = Effort
11/10 &11/11 NO SCHOOL - Planning Day and Veterans Day
11/17-Nov. 25th Scholastic Book Fair.
11/24 and 25 – NO SCHOOL - Parent Teacher Conferences, day and evening
11/27and 28 – Thanksgiving
11/26 – Deadline to turn in TAG Nominations to
12/1 NO SCHOOL - Planning
December Lifeskills Theme = Organization
12/19 Winter Sing-a-long in afternoon
12/22 Begin Winter Break
January Lifeskills Theme = Initiative
1/5 – Return from Winter Break
1/19 NO SCHOOL
1/30 NO SCHOOL - Professional Development Day
FEB. Lifeskills Theme = Patience
Feb 4 –
Feb. 16 – NO SCHOOL - Presidents Day
March Lifeskills Theme = Perseverance
March 2 – Read Across
March 6 Friday – Planning
March 23-27 – NO SCHOOL – Spring Break
April 10 Professional Development Day April 22
May Lifeskills Theme = Responsibility
May 2 – School Auction
May 7 – Spring Sing Celebration?
May 4th-8th Teacher Appreciation Week.
May 25 – NO SCHOOL Memorial Day
June 3 (Weds) Junior
Friday, June 20, 2008
Summer Reading Ideas
Dear Community, I was looking at the last PTA newsletter for June, and thought there were many pieces of great information there, including several lists/recommendations for summer reading - whether your child is in kindergarten and just learning to read, or in the intermediate grades and wants to compete in the "Battle of the Books" competition next fall. If you don't have the June issue, email me at jblanck@pps.k12.or.us and request to have a .pdf of the issue sent to you. Happy Summer, and Happy Reading! - John
Friday, May 23, 2008
Principal Notes May 22, 2008
NO SCHOOL MONDAY! – Monday, May 26th is Memorial Day – have a great 3 day weekend!
This will happen ONLY IF 2 THINGS HAPPEN:
1) - If weather cooperates that day, and
2) - If they get the volunteers to sign up for it by 1:30 pm on Tuesday, May 27th.
VOLUNTEERING: By 1:30 pm on Tuesday, May 27th, volunteers will need to email Kimmy at kimmy@easystreet.net and indicate when they can help as scheduled below:
1. We need 16 volunteers from 9-11 and 16 volunteers from 12-until the
games are done and their stations are put away (Probably 2:30ish).
2. We need 5 volunteers to help gather all of the items for the games on Wednesday at 2:15 until complete.
3. We need 4 volunteers to help with set up on Thursday, May 29th at 8:00 am
4. We need all of these volunteers committed by Tuesday, May 27th by 1:30 pm
· Any remaining account balances (positive or negative) on students’ meal accounts at the end of the year will be automatically held for students at their current school or transferred to students’ new schools within the district.
· If your student is leaving the district, then you may call Marci Jenkins, Cafeteria Lead at 503-916-5219 to arrange for a refund.
LIBRARY MATERIALS DUE BY MAY 30TH – Please make sure that all books, magazines, or reference materials from the school library are returned by then. Fees for lost books should also be turned in by then as well. Thank you!
MEDICATION IN THE OFFICE – Medication left at school must be picked up by the parent or it will be destroyed at the end of the school year per district policy. If your child has any unused medication in the office please make arrangements for picking it up before the last day of school.
REMEMBER “HILL STREET BLUES” T.V. SERIES? – Just before the Day Sergeant finished their daily meeting and sent out the officers for their duty, his last words were: “And Hey - let’s be careful out there.” I was thinking to myself that I’d like us all to “be careful out there” with ourselves, and with our children, at this stressful time of year.
This year as in all school years, during the last 3 weeks of school, we remember that: parents are stressed getting ready for summer; teachers are stressed trying to balance keeping the children engaged in learning and yet getting ready to say goodbye to their students (and trying to deal with the demands of their Principal and District); and the students themselves – well, that’s a longer story.
The best description for some of the emotions for the students is similar to that seen in teenagers getting ready to leave home: they are excited about going on (to summer, or to another teacher or another school in the fall), and yet they feel partly sad and afraid and also a little guilty. As one psychologist put it, the kids feel guilty that they are excited to move on, but also think: “Why would I be excited to move on from the people who have loved me and cared for me for the past (one, or several) years?” So some teens will actually “act out” and in a sense try to “pick a fight” or find flaws in their parents (teachers) to justify their guilt. I know that this doesn’t apply to all students, but I do believe that it makes sense that kids’ (and adults’) behaviors sometimes are actually more complicated than what shows on the surface.
Because emotions might be running high for people now, and because of the pressures to do so much at this time of year, I just want to advise students and parents and staff to “be patient with yourselves and others”; enjoy these last 11 days of school and appreciate each other; be kind when you see others feeling some stress and know that they might be doing the best they can with what they’ve got; and take care of yourselves and others (or….. “Hey, lets be careful out there”).
Upcoming Events:
May 26 - Memorial Day – NO SCHOOL
May 28 - 5th Grade to visit
May 29 - Reading Friends Pizza Party – 11:15 am
May 30 - 2nd grade Picnic at
May 30 - Student Council Party – 11:15 am
June 2 - 5th grade Jet Boats
June 3 - Staff vs 5th grade Basketball Game – 12:45 pm
June 5 - PTA Meeting - 6:15 pm
June 6 - 4th grade Play – 1:00 pm
June 9 - Year End All School Assembly – 12:30 pm
June 10 - 5th grade Talent Show – 10:00 am
June 10 - Last Day of School!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)