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The Cougar Connection
Principal News & Notes: February 2024
Semester Two is Upon Us
As we embark on the exciting journey of the second semester of the school year, it is with great joy and enthusiasm that I reach out to you, reflecting on the tremendous growth and accomplishments we have witnessed in our students during the first semester. In fact, at our last Administrative and Supervisory Meeting in January, Cold Spring was spotlighted for having 80% or more students meeting and/or exceeding literacy and mathematics benchmarks. We are so proud of our students and staff for all their hard work!
Our students have shown remarkable dedication, curiosity, and resilience in their academic pursuits. We have witnessed them overcoming challenges, embracing new concepts, and forming friendships that contribute to a positive and thriving learning environment here at Cold Spring. Their achievements, both big and small, are a testament to their hard work and the unwavering support of our dedicated teachers, staff, and parents.
As we step into the second semester, we are thrilled to continue fostering an environment where growth is not just encouraged but celebrated. We are committed to providing the tools, resources, and support necessary for each student to reach their full potential. Together, we will build on the foundation laid in the first semester and reach new heights of success and learning.
To support our students' continued growth, we would like to share some tips for successful study habits at home. Encourage a designated study space free from distractions, establish a consistent routine, and promote a healthy balance between school and leisure activities. Remember, perseverance and grit are key ingredients in overcoming challenges. Encourage your child to view difficulties as opportunities for growth, and remind them that learning is a journey filled with both triumphs and setbacks.
Let's make the second semester a time of continued exploration, discovery, and growth. Together, as a strong and supportive community, we can inspire our students to reach for the stars and achieve their dreams.
Wishing you all a successful and fulfilling second semester!
Coming Up At Cold Spring
February Calendar
Cold Spring Elementary School Website
Cold Spring Elementary School Phone Number: 240-740-4390
February 5th -9th - National School Counseling Week
February 5th - Report Cards Distributed, Grade 5 Family Life Virtual Parent Meeting (5th grade parents only)
February 6th - PTA Meeting
February 7th - 5th Grade Chorus Concert, 7pm
February 14th - Class Valentine Parties
February 19th - President's Day, No School
February 22nd - Cougar House Team Building Event
February 23rd - Donuts with Grownups PTA Event, Principal Coffee
Things to Know
Celebrating Black History Month
As we step into the month of February, we embark on a journey of celebration, reflection, and learning – it's Black History Month! This annual observance provides us with a unique opportunity to honor and recognize the invaluable contributions of Black individuals throughout history and in today's world.
Black History Month is not just a time to look back at the struggles and triumphs of the past, but also a moment to appreciate the rich tapestry of cultures, achievements, and resilience that shape our present and future. At Cold Spring, we believe in fostering an inclusive environment that embraces diversity, encourages understanding, and empowers every student to appreciate the strengths that come from our unique backgrounds.
This month, our classrooms will come alive with stories of remarkable Black leaders, inventors, artists, scientists, and activists who have left an indelible mark on our world. We will explore the extraordinary accomplishments that have paved the way for progress and celebrate the vibrant tapestry of Black heritage that weaves through our collective history. Together, we can inspire the next generation to appreciate the beauty of our differences and work towards a more inclusive and equitable future.
As we commemorate Black History Month, let us also remember that our commitment to inclusivity extends beyond February. Together, let's continue fostering an environment where every child feels seen, heard, and valued, and where the celebration of diversity is woven into the fabric of our daily lives.
Valentine's Day Information
Cold Spring Elementary students will celebrate Valentine’s Day on Wednesday, February 14,
2024, with a small party in classrooms. Room Parents will be assigned to parties and have worked with classroom teachers to make sure all logistics and activities are appropriate. No additional volunteers are needed. Please check with your student’s teacher for their specific party time and details.
A SWEET thank you to Ms. Azoff and all our Room Parents for their help planning this fun and memorable experience for our students.
Absences & Tardies
Did you know that good school attendance correlates directly with high grades?
The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) evaluates every school in Maryland based on a variety of factors, one of which being the percentage of students who are considered chronically absent. A student is chronically absent if they are absent 10.0 percent or more of the school days in which they are enrolled, regardless of the reason for the absence. For a full school year, that is 18 days, or less than two days per month.
We have noticed a large increase in students who are late to school. Please make sure your students arrive prior to 9:00am as that is the start of instruction. Our bell rings at 8:53am for students to enter the building. We recognize winter months bring more drivers, but you must then account for the long car rider line to ensure your child is on time.
Ms. Okoroha is working to track absences and tardies and send communication to families so we can work towards getting more students in the building on time and daily.
Personal Mobile Devices
Although personal mobile devices are permitted on school grounds, all personal mobile devices should be turned off and out of sight unless otherwise directed to use by a staff member. Personal Mobile devices are prohibited for instructional use, during lunch periods, and between classes/transitional time. If your child has a smart watch, please ensure that their notifications are silenced and that watches are not receiving alerts during the school day. In recent weeks, there has been an increase in distractions during classroom instruction involving smart watches. Students have been receiving texts from family members or receiving other alerts, which are causing instruction interruptions. In addition, please remind your child to be sure that their personal mobile devices are off or silenced during class time. If you need to get an emergency message to your child during school hours please call the office directly, as our staff is happy to help! Schools are not responsible for personal property. MCPS Policy:
https://ww2.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/policy/pdf/cogra.pdf
Happy National School Counseling Week (5/5-5/9)
In the heart of our vibrant elementary school community, we pause to celebrate the invaluable contributions of our esteemed school counselor, Mrs. Felsher. With unwavering dedication and a compassionate spirit, Mrs. Felsher has become an indispensable pillar of support, leaving a mark on the lives of students, parents, and staff alike.
From fostering a nurturing environment to providing essential guidance, Mrs. Felsher has consistently demonstrated a commitment to the holistic well-being of each and every student. Parents, guardians, staff, and students express profound gratitude for the open lines of communication Mrs. Felsher establishes, offering a reliable source of insight into their child's emotional and academic development. The warm and approachable demeanor of our counselor has made them not only a trusted advisor, but also a confidant for families navigating the challenges of growing up.
As we reflect on the impact Mrs. Felsher has had on our school community, it is evident that her tireless efforts have not only enhanced the educational experience but also created a foundation for lifelong success. The entire school community stands united in gratitude, extending heartfelt appreciation to Mrs. Felsher for her exceptional work in shaping the bright futures of our students.
HAPPY NATIONAL SCHOOL COUNSELING WEEK!
Congratulations to our PTA Reflections Winners!
- Emily Udler – Photography – Award of Merit
- Leo Burch – Photography – Honorable Mention
Spotlight on Specials - What is Happening in Music, Art, PE, and Media?
From the PTA
Restaurant Night
Restaurant Night – Wednesday, February 21st, California Tortilla, 11am-9:30pm
Please mark your calendars for our February restaurant night fundraiser at California Tortilla on Wednesday, February 21st. See flyer here.
Volunteers Needed!
The yearbook committee needs a few volunteers! Please reach out to Paola Garber if you can donate a bit of your time to help put together this year's yearbook over the next few months! garber.paola@gmail.com
A Message from the Yearbook Committee
The yearbook committee is excited to create lasting memories for this school year, and we need your help! If you have fantastic photos of your kids, we would love to include them in the 2023-2024 yearbook.
Please use the following links to submit photos for specific events:
- First Day of School: First Day of School Photos
- Back to School Bash: Back to School Bash Photos
- Halloween: Halloween Photos
If you have any questions or need assistance, please don't hesitate to contact Paola Garber at garber.paola@gmail.com
PTA Reflections Winners
The winners for this year's Reflections Arts Program at the MCCPTA (county) level have been announced!
Congratulations to the Cold Spring students whose artwork has advanced for participation and judging to the state level competition:
- Emily Udler – Photography – Award of Merit
- Leo Burch – Photography – Honorable Mention
PTA Meeting 2/7
The next PTA meeting is coming up this Tuesday, February 6th at 7 pm via Zoom. Mrs. Galusha will be presenting around Eureka Math. We hope you will join us!
Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/91217492612?pwd=VzJ6L3ZmREhPVEZZamdtREpjWitBQT09
Meeting ID: 912 1749 2612
Passcode: 453776
From our Staff Appreciation Chair, Lindsay Koosed
We only need a few more volunteers to help stock the staff lounge for the month of May, and then the entire school year will be covered! Please sign up below, so we know this is taken care of. Thank you!
Please help us take care of our wonderful faculty and staff by keeping their staff lounge stocked with goodies! We have 43 staff members, so a Costco-sized box is enough to make sure everyone finds something they like. Once you sign up and leave your email, I will email you directly with my address so you can drop off your donation before the date listed on this Signup Genius. I will then bring everything to school at once to minimize disruption. Please let me know if you have any questions and thank you!!
Sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E094BAAA92DA4F94-stock
Principal Coffee February 23rd, 9:15am
Join Cold Spring administration for coffee and conversation. The topic will be "A Day in the Life of..." and Mrs. Hambrecht will highlight various roles in the building and share how their time is spent, to give us some perspective about how the days unfold at Cold Spring.
International Fair, Friday, March 8th, 5:30-7:30pm
The International Fair is planned for Friday, March 8th at 5:30-7:30. We need a few committee volunteers to plan the event - food, cultural performances, fashion show, and table displays. If you would like to volunteer, please contact Paras at parastoo@hotmail.com.
Cold Spring Elementary School
Please contact Principal Hambrecht or Assistant Principal Legarreta with any questions!
Email: Natalie_M_Hambrecht@mcpsmd.org
Website: https://www2.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/coldspringes/
Location: 9201 Falls Chapel Way, Potomac, MD, USA
Phone: 240-740-4390