The Tiger's Roar
January / February 2024
Dear Orange Grove Families,
We trust this message finds you well. Despite having fewer full weeks of school in January and February, we've experienced significant events that deserve recognition and celebration. Bingo was a massive success, selling out in just 20 minutes. We commenced National School Choice Week with a visit from the State Superintendent and one of our two U.S. Senators. The Great Kindness Challenge, a week-long celebration emphasizing the importance of choosing kindness and making positive choices, was another noteworthy event. This week, we eagerly anticipate our first-semester awards ceremonies, where we will honor the hardworking students for their academic achievements.
National School Choice Week
Elementary Bingo
Our awards ceremonies not only acknowledge academic excellence, effort, and citizenship but will also celebrate the outstanding achievement of 24 students who earned a perfect score on a standardized test last spring. As with last year, we are pleased to offer a livestream option for those unable to attend. Please refer to the graphic below for specific times and links. Subsequently, we have more exciting events lined up, including Middle School Bingo Night and National History Day featuring visits from both the Charleston City Mayor and CCSD Superintendent.
Outstanding schools like Orange Grove thrive on the collaboration between supportive parents, diligent students, and dedicated staff. Your ongoing support is the cornerstone of our success, and we extend our heartfelt thanks for being an integral part of the Orange Grove community.
Warm regards,
John H. Clendaniel
CEO
Livestream now available!
Unable to attend in person? Tune in via our livestream and join us in celebrating your student's success, no matter the distance. Click on the appropriate link below and then select the "Live" tab.
In This Issue
- Next School Year: Important Information - 24-25 Intent to Return, School Choice now open.
- Congratulations! - Spelling Bee, Character Cub, Middle Students of the Month, & more.
- Upcoming Dates & Announcements - 7th & 8th WAHS Info Night, PLC Job Opening, & more.
- Important Reminders - The Auction and Middle Bingo tickets on sale now.
- OG Tigers Athletics - Basketball wrap up; Spring sports kick off!
- Library news you can use! - Battle of the Books update; Jerry Pallotta author visit.
- Happenings @ The Grove - 8th shines in Lion King, Honoring MLK, Jr., School Choice Week visitors, and more!
- OGCS PTO Information - Nothing Bundt Cake fundraiser order pick-up information.
Next School Year: Important Information
24-25 Orange Grove Intent to Return
For students ENROLLED at Orange Grove.
We are starting to plan for the 2024-2025 school year. If you are intending for your child to return to Orange Grove for the 2024-2025 school year, please return the yellow letter that was sent home in your child’s folder with their report card.
- Please DO NOT apply through CCSD's School Choice. Your child will automatically roll up to the next grade level. This includes 5th graders moving up to the Middle School.
- If you have a currently enrolled student and you completed a School Choice application for the 2024-2025 school year to attend Orange Grove, please withdraw your application.
Please be sure to return the yellow Intent to Return letter to your classroom / homeroom teacher before Thursday, February 29, 2024.
24-25 CCSD School Choice application window open
For students NOT ENROLLED at Orange Grove.
If you or someone you know has a child who is hoping to attend Orange Grove for the first time in the 2024-2025 school year, don’t forget that the 24-25 CCSD School Choice application window is open and CLOSES Friday, February 23, 2024 at 5:00p.
- You must apply during the application window (now - February 23 at 5p) to be included in the lottery.
- This includes siblings (rising K-8) of enrolled Orange Grove students who do not currently attend The Grove. When completing the application, please be sure to indicate that you are applying as a sibling. This is a priority that is given to our currently enrolled families.
For information on how to apply, key updates, and important timelines, visit CCSD's School Choice website here.
24-25 Orange Grove CD Application now available
For families looking to apply for Orange Grove’s 4-year-old Child Development program, parents / guardians can pick up a paper application in the Elementary front office, Monday - Friday, between 8:00 am and 2:00 pm. These are due no later than Friday, February 23, 2024, at 3:30 pm.
Congratulations!
January Employee of the Month
Special Education Teacher
Elementary Campus
Congratulations, Mrs. Rhinehart! Check out Mrs. Rhinehart's WTMN Employee of the Month interview with Mr. Clendaniel. Learn more about why she became a special education teacher, who her most influential teacher was growing up, and how Mrs. Rhinehart is making an impact at The Grove.
CCSD Spelling Bee - Middle recap
OG Middle is so proud of Charlie G. for representing us at the CCSD Spelling Bee in January. It was an action packed night, filled with many challenging words, nervous spellers, and an anxious crowd. Charlie mastered voracious and get ready for this one – retinitis-pigmentosa! Charlie put his heart and soul into preparing for the CCSD Bee and we thank him for all of his hard work and efforts!
January Terrific Kids @ the Elementary
Congratulations to our January Terrific Kids! Watch the video to learn more about these stellar students and why they were chosen as their class's Terrific Kid this month.
Celebrating our Middle School Students of the Month
Please join us in congratulating the Middle School Students of the Month for January! Click on the video below to learn more about these awesome students and how they modeled this month's character trait.
December Elementary Character Cub Winners!
Back row (left to right) - Aria G. (4F), Luke F. (4F), Oliver S. (4F), Zach W. (3F), Wyatt W. (2F), Lincoln R. (3D)
Front row (left to right) -Mary Pat D. (4C), Wesley M. (K5), Jude L (1E), Charlotte C. (2F), Max M. (1C), Khalid A. (2E)
January Character Cub Winners @ the Elementary!
Back row (left to right) - Christopher T. (1G), Andy W. (2F), Isabelle B. (1G), Zion K. (3F), Levi F. (3A), Douglas G. (3A
Front row (left to right) -Clara B. (K4), Reese R. (K1), Ava M. (K6), Sofia S. (K6), Lily F. (K7), Madyx E. (K2), Elijah F. (K2)
FEBRUARY
February 6: Elementary Awards Ceremonies (8a - 4th grade / 9a - 5th grade / 10a - 3rd grade)
February 7: Middle School Awards Ceremonies (8:15a - 8th grade / 9:15a - 7th grade / 10:15a - 6th grade) / 100th day of school @ Elementary / West Ashley High School Information Night 6p @ Middle Cafe
February 8: PTO Bundt Cake pick up (click here for more details) / 100th day of school @ Middle
February 13: PTO General Meeting & 3rd Grade Performance 6p @ Elementary
February 14: Valentine's Day Free Style Day / Middle Bingo Night 5p @ MS Café (buy tickets here)
February 16: Early Release (Elementary @ 11:40a / Middle @ 12:15p) / Jerry Pallotta K-5th Author Visit
February 19: Presidents Day / No School
February 20: Internet Safety Presentation by SC Attorney General's Office (Adults ONLY) 6p @ Middle Café
February 22: Charter Board Meeting 6p @ Elementary / 8th Grade NHD Project Viewing & Awards 5p @ Middle Library
February 23: 24-25 CCSD School Choice application window CLOSES at 5p
February 25: Chorus practice 2p @ Elementary
February 28: PTO Board Meeting 1:50p @ Elementary
February 29: 24-25 Intent to Return Form due
MARCH
March 1: Q3 progress reports home
March 12: PTO General Meeting & 2nd Grade Performance 6p @ Elementary
March 15: Early Release (Elementary @ 11:40a / Middle @ 12:15p)
March 18 - 28: Preview & Book Fair @ Elementary (Middle - more details coming soon)
March 24: Chorus practice 2p @ Elementary
March 27: PTO Board Meeting 1:50p @ Elementary
March 28: End Q3 / Charter Board Meeting 6p @ Elementary / Chorus Spring Show 6:30p @ WAHS
March 29: Early Release (Elementary @ 11:40a / Middle @ 12:15p) / Middle School Field Day
APRIL
April 1 - 5: Spring Break / No School / Offices Closed
April 8: No School / Teacher Work Day
View the 2023-2024 OGCS Calendar here.
The PLC is hiring!
The Preschool Learning Center at Orange Grove serves children ages 3 months to 4 years old. We are seeking loving, experienced Child Caregivers to start immediately. Child care experience and high school diploma, or equivalent, required. Candidates must be 21 years of age or older to apply. Click here for more information and to apply.
WAHS Information Night
Mr. Ryan Cumback, Principal at West Ashley High School, invites OGCS 7th and 8th grade students and their families to join him on Weds. 2/7 at 6p in the Middle School Cafe for an evening about all things WAHS. He will give a brief presentation and overview of the programs they offer and then will open it up for questions.
Important Reminders
Middle Bingo Night
Make sure to buy your student's ticket for the Middle School Bingo Night on 2/14 at 5p. Don't miss this drop off event for OG Middle students only - tickets are going fast!
Follow us on Instagram
Keep up-to-date on all things Orange Grove! Follow us today @orangegrovecharterschool
Throwback Thursdays!
Don't forget that every Thursday, from now through June, students may wear any style day bottoms when paired with their The Groove tie-dye t-shirt.
OG Tigers Athletics
🏀🐅 Orange Grove Monthly Sports Round-up 🐅🏀
Sr. Boys Basketball - A Season of Excellence:
The Sr. Boys Basketball Team, under the expert guidance of coaches Adam Goldwyn and Mark Johnson, has left an indelible mark on the court this season, embodying the spirit of the Tigers with each game. Special acknowledgment to standout players like Thaver H., Daniel K., and the entire team for their unwavering commitment. As we bid farewell to this season, let's reflect on the achievements and eagerly anticipate the exciting prospects that lie ahead for the Sr. Boys.
Jr. Boys Basketball - A Season of Triumph:
The Jr. Boys Basketball Team has etched their names in the annals of Tiger history with a season marked by triumph and growth. Guided by the expert coaching duo of Nate Romberger and Eric Adams, these young talents, including standout players like Mason R. and George M., and the entire roster, have showcased not just skill but resilience and sportsmanship. As the season wraps up, we celebrate their achievements and eagerly anticipate the continued evolution of this promising team.
Sr. Girls Basketball - A Journey to Remember:
Under the strategic guidance of Coach Ashley Blum, our Sr. Girls Basketball Team has woven a narrative of teamwork, determination, and skill throughout the season. Kudos to players like Sarah G. and Emma A., and the entire squad for their outstanding contributions. As we bid adieu to this chapter, we honor the Sr. Girls for their commitment and eagerly look forward to the next chapter of their athletic journey.
Jr. Girls Basketball - Playoffs Bound, Chasing Championship Dreams:
A resounding cheer for our Jr. Girls Basketball Team as they clinch a well-deserved spot in the playoffs! Coached by the dynamic duo of Keith Robinson and Chris Howey, these young athletes, including standout performers like Claire E., Eva R., and the entire squad, have demonstrated exceptional skill and determination. The playoffs offer an exciting opportunity for the Jr. Girls to chase their championship dreams. Let's rally behind them, fill the stands with orange and black, and show our unwavering support as they embark on this thrilling postseason journey. They kicked off their championship push last Sunday, February 4th at Charleston Collegiate. Please see our athletics website for semifinal and final round information!
Elementary Boys & Girls Basketball - Season Still in Play:
Our Elementary Boys and Girls teams are over half way through their seasons, but there are still plenty of games left to watch! Check out the teams' schedules below and come out to cheer on these hard working teams!
🔥 What's Next:
Get ready for an exhilarating spring as the Orange Grove Tigers unleash their prowess across various sports!
🏆 Baseball Bonanza:
Click here to access each team's schedule.
OG White, Orange, and Black Baseball Teams are gearing up for an epic season. Watch out for power hitters, skilled pitchers, and solid defense as these teams aim for victory.
⚽ Soccer Showdown:
Click here to view soccer schedule.
Our OG Soccer Team, with a mix of agility and strategy, is ready to dominate on the field. Expect thrilling matches and spectacular goals as they navigate through the competition.
🎾 Tennis Thrills:
Click here to access each team's schedule.
Our OG Tennis Team is prepared to serve up some excitement. Watch skilled rallies and precision shots as our tennis players showcase their finesse on the court.
⚾ Softball Sensation:
Click here to view the softball schedule.
The OG Softball Team is set to hit it out of the park. Get ready for powerful swings, strategic plays, and dynamic teamwork as they aim for success.
Thank you for being an integral part of Orange Grove Tigers. Go Tigers! 🧡🐅🖤
📢 Stay Connected and Cheer on Our Tigers! 📣
Parents, mark your calendars and gear up to witness the exciting journey of our young athletes! To stay updated on game schedules, match highlights, and all things sports-related, make sure to regularly visit our school website and follow us on Orange Grove social media. Your support and encouragement mean the world to our teams!
Come join us, cheer on our Tigers, and be part of the roaring crowd as our talented athletes showcase their skills on the court. Your presence and enthusiasm make a significant difference in our students' sporting experience!
Athletic Director / Middle School PE Teacher
Library news you can use!
Congratulations to our 4th and 5th grade Battle of The Books finalists! Following the Orange Grove Battle of the Books event in February, the winning team will move on to represent The Grove at the CCSD competition. We'll keep you posted!
Upcoming Teen Events @ Hurd/St. Andrews Library
Hurd / St. Andrews Library: February Children's Newsletter
Check out all the Children's Area events happening in February at our local CCPL library.
Have library-related questions?
Happenings @ The Grove
8th Grade Shines in Lion King
Our 8th grade vocal performing arts students took a well deserved bow last month after an excellent performance of the Broadway Junior, The Lion King. We are so proud of the work put in last semester by these students as well as Mrs. Webster, Mrs. Miller, and Mrs. Clendaniel! Enjoy highlights from the show in the video below.
Orange Grove Honors MLK Jr.
Orange Grove celebrated Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. earlier last month. Check out a few of the creative ways our students honored his birthday in the video below. May his dream find life in us all!
Winter Chorus Concert Highlights
Our dedicated chorus is already hard at work preparing new songs for their Spring Concert on Thursday, March 28 at 6:00p at West Ashley High School. We can't wait to see what they have in store for us! In anticipation of another amazing performance next month, here are highlights from their Winter Concert last December in the video below.
Senator Scott & Superintendent Weaver Visit The Grove
In honor of School Choice Week, Orange Grove hosted US Senator Tim Scott and State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver. Our school was chosen based on our reputation of excellence. During the tour, the pair experimented floating polar bears with Mrs. Lyon’s class and shot hoops with Coach Nate before solving some very difficult third grade math with Mrs. Thurman. The Grove was proud to show off our amazing school! Enjoy highlights from the visit in the video below.
Bundt Cake Order Pick-Up: Thursday, February 8
We have completed another successful fundraiser! Our OG community is AMAZING! All Nothing Bundt Cakes fundraiser orders will be distributed this Thursday, February 8th.
Please note the pick-up details below. Questions? Please email us at ogcsptofundraising@gmail.com.
If your Nothing Bundt Cakes order was submitted for your Elementary student:
- Small orders (6 or less bundlets / NO 8” Cakes) will be sent home with your Elementary student on Thursday.
- Large orders (7 or more bundlets / 1 or more 8” Cakes) can be picked up at the Elementary Campus between 3:00 – 6:00 pm on Thursday. Please come to bus loop side door near the cafeteria to pick up your order.
If your Nothing Bundt Cakes order was submitted for your Middle School student:
- Small orders (6 or less bundlets / NO 8” Cakes) will be sent home with your Middle School student on Thursday.
- Large orders (7 or more bundlets / 1 or more 8” Cakes) can be picked up at the Middle School between 3:30 – 6:00 pm on Thursday. Please come to the Middle School Front Office to pick up your order.
Thank you to everyone who has signed up to help out on pick-up day. If you are interested in helping but haven't had a chance to sign-up yet, we have a few open spots at the Middle School. Click to sign-up here: Middle School PTO Bundt Cake Volunteer Sign-Up
Upcoming PTO Events
Our next Board Meeting is on Wednesday, February 28 at 1:50 pm at the Elementary campus. The board will be discussing plans for the remainder of this school year as well as next year's open board and committee member positions. Join us and learn about the many ways you can get involved. If you are unable to attend in person, a Zoom link will be available. Please email ogcsptopresident@gmail.com for details.
Join us for our next General Meeting on Tuesday, February 13 @ 6p at the Elementary campus. 3rd grade will also be performing during the meeting.
New PTO website
For all things PTO at The Grove, make sure to visit our new website. You can find PTO event information, meeting dates, volunteer opportunities, and more, so make sure to check back often!
Click on the logos below to learn more about our business partners who generously support The Grove. Thank you!
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ORANGE GROVE CHARTER SCHOOL
1225 Orange Branch Road, Charleston, SC 29407
(843) 763 - 1520
Middle Campus
505-B Arlington Drive, Charleston, SC 29414
(843) 852 - 7929
Email: tigers_roar@orangegrovecharter.com
Website: www.orangegrovecharter.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/orangegrovecharterschool/