Dear PTS families,

Welcome to the gorgeous November colors in Phoenix and Talent and a very busy, though short month in the Phoenix-Talent School District.

We pack a lot into a month that only has 15 school days, but it also happens to be one of our most important and eventful stretches of the year.

As I’m sure you know by now, every school in PTS will be holding fall conferences on November 20-21, and I cannot stress enough how important it is that you sign up, show up and get the lowdown on what’s happening in your school with your student. A strong school-family relationship is an essential ingredient to a successful educational experience, and these conferences are all about building and strengthening those relationships. November also includes Phoenix High’s second-annual Holiday Gift Fair November 18-19, the week-long Thanksgiving break November 20-24, and don’t forget that there is no school tomorrow as we observe Veterans Day.

Now for some recent highlights from across PTS.

• It may seem like ancient history but it was only about two week ago that the Pirate Country Parade took over Phoenix, and what an uplifting – and somehow dry! – experience it was, as always. Thank you, Breeze Chapman, for making it all happen and also for, perhaps through sheer will, making good on your no-rain promise/prediction (the streak continues). It is always so encouraging to see all of PTS come together to celebrate Phoenix High’s homecoming week. So much school spirit, so many smiles. What’s not to love?

• If you were able to make it out to one of our Halloween events then you know how much fun they were again this year. The Trunk or Treat events at Orchard Hill Elementary and Talent Elementary were a blast, and Phoenix Elementary’s Halloween parade was a big hit again. If you missed it, you can watch the videos on our YouTube channel.

• Talent Middle School’s community leadership students took charge of the school’s spirit week, which included dress-up days, lunchtime activities, a costume contest and staff appreciation gifts.

• Orchard Hill students from Mr. Carson’s fifth-grade class took a field trip to PHS and were able to work with the tools in Mr. Ford’s construction science building. OES principal Mr. Vallier thought it would be a great opportunity to let his students get a little taste of what it will be like to be a Phoenix High Pirate, and another OES visit to PHS – next time to Ms. Rollins’ art class – is in the works.

• Phoenix Elementary hosted a Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) event last week. This wonderful collaboration between staff and community members was organized by Community Care specialist Laura Millette and RISE instructional assistant Susie Serna.

• And finally, PTS was honored to host the Director of the Oregon Department of Education, Dr. Charlene Williams, last week. Dr. Williams visited Phoenix Elementary to read a story to the bilingual immersion kindergarteners, then observed Mrs. Boyles’ fourth-grade class in action. The kinders proved to be a respectful, attentive audience, and they loved the story – watch the video to see for yourself.

That’s all I got for you this month, PTS. Don’t forget that there is no school tomorrow as we celebrate Veterans Day, and please remember to sign up for your school’s fall family conference if you haven’t already.

Lastly, our regular attender rate (the percentage of students who attend at least 90% of their enrolled days) is now sitting at 74% district-wide, including 80% at our elementary schools. That’s a big improvement over last school year but it would be great to hit 80% before the winter break. I know we can do it, PTS.

Brent Barry, Superintendent

Attending our upcoming Fall Conferences (if you haven't signed up yet, please do so) is crucial for parents to stay informed and engaged in their child's education. Here are the top five reasons why every parent should attend these conferences:

1. Understanding Your Child's Progress: Parent-teacher conferences provide an opportunity for parents and guardians to gain insight into their child's academic and social progress. Teachers can share information about your child's strengths, weaknesses, and areas where they may need extra support. This knowledge allows parents/guardians to better understand their child's educational journey and make informed decisions to help them succeed.

2. Building a Strong Partnership: Attending these conferences helps foster a positive and collaborative relationship between parents/guardians and teachers. It demonstrates to your child that their education is a priority and that their success matters to both their parents/guardians and teachers. Building this partnership can lead to better communication and a more supportive learning environment.

3. Addressing Concerns and Challenges: If you have any concerns about your child's academic performance, behavior, or social interactions, our Fall Family Conferences are an excellent platform to discuss these issues with the teacher. Teachers can provide valuable insights, suggestions, and strategies to address any challenges your child may be facing in school.

4. Setting Educational Goals: Our Fall Family Conferences offer a chance to set and discuss educational goals for your child. By collaborating with the teacher, you can identify specific areas for improvement and work together to create a plan to help your child reach their full potential. This can lead to a more tailored and effective approach to your child's education.

5. Staying Informed About School Activities: Fall Family Conferences are also an opportunity to learn about extracurricular activities, school policies, and upcoming events. By staying informed, you can actively support your child's involvement in school activities, ensuring they have a well-rounded educational experience.

• November 10: PTS recognizes Veterans Day (no school).

• November 11: Veterans Day.
  

• November 18-19: Phoenix High Holiday Gift Fair.

• November 20-21: Fall Family Conferences.
  

• November 20-24: Thanksgiving break (no school).

• November 29: Phoenix High Senior Career and College Night (6-8 p.m.).

Email: brent.barry@phoenix.k12.or.us
Website: https://www.phoenix.k12.or.us/Page/1
Location: 401 West 4th Street, Phoenix, OR, USA
Phone: 541-535-1517
Facebook: facebook.com/PTSRising
Twitter: @Phoenix_Talent