Fall or autumn as some call it, is one of my favorite seasons. The colors on the leaves, especially in Michigan, are absolutely gorgeous. The snow has not arrived, but it can be cool enough for a fire in the fireplace. As the seasons change, I want to take this opportunity to thank all of our families and caretakers for all that you continue to do to support our learners! Your role in supporting daily learning is just as important as the work that we do to provide engaging lessons, Thank You!

I want to remind you that October 14-15, we will have our Fall 2020 Parent Teacher Student Conferences! This is a time for the teacher to dialogue with you about your child's progress in meeting the learning expectations for their grade level. Please watch for the teacher sign up directions, as you may select the 15-20 minute time slot that works best for you.

Also, Thursday and Friday, October 15-16, 2020 will be a half day for students ending at 11:59 a.m. I encourage your student to stay engaged in learning in the afternoon by logging on to Dreambox and Lexia for reading and math gains.

Stay Safe and Stay Healthy!

Micole D. Dyson, Ph.D.

Principal

(269) 337-0790

Scheduling/Appointments: Mrs. Janice Garneau

Attendance/Immunizations: Mrs. Lindsay Carr

Behavioral Support: Mrs. Natalie Orbe

Communities In School: Ms. Blaec Arevalo

Unresolved Issues: Dr. Micole D. Dyson

Website: https://www.kalamazoopublicschools.com/WoodsLake
Location: 3215 Oakland Drive, Kalamazoo, MI, USA
Phone: (269)337-0790
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WoodsLakeElementary

We can begin to appreciate diversity by: Increasing our understanding of our own and others’ viewpoint. Examining critically our attitudes towards people who are different from us. Identifying the origins of our negative reactions and recognizing our biases. Being willing to talk, listen and learn.

• DON’T: Discriminate

• INSTEAD: Be open to everyone

• DON’T: Make disrespectful remarks

• INSTEAD: Think before you speak

• DON’T: Focus on differences

• INSTEAD: Appreciate other cultures

• DON’T: Assume limitations

INSTEAD: Make everyone feel welcome

If you were unable to get to the First Day Shoe Fund in-person distribution and would still like your student to receive a pair of shoes, orders are not due until October 16th! Please contact Ms. Blaec at 269-815-8209 or arevalobc@kalamazoopublicschools.net.

Kalamazoo Kids In Tune has started their virtual program: Stronger Together, Celebrating our Diverse-City. We were happy to welcome 21 students from Woods Lake into the KKIT program this year!

If you participated in KKIT in the past and would like to enroll again this year -

it's not too late! Just contact Ms. Donielle at email: dhetrick@kalamazoosymphony.com Cell: 269-929-8253 and we'll get you enrolled. If you have a 3rd or 4th grade student who is interested in joining KKIT for the first time, we will be enrolling new students again next month.

Stay tuned for more information!

The next PTO meeting will be held via Zoom on Monday, October 19, at 5:15 p.m. Please make sure the PTO has your contact info so that you can receive the login information (email WoodsLakePTO@gmail.com).

We invite families, caregivers, teachers, and staff to join the Woods Lake Virtual Village - a special Facebook page created specifically for community support during remote learning. It may be accessed at : https://www.facebook.com/groups/795714871259284/ Please be sure to answer each question when submitting your request to join.

Finally, we look forward to hosting a virtual Scholastic Book Fair later this fall! The shopping period will span two weeks in late November and early December, and books purchased will be shipped directly to homes, in time for the holidays. Look for more specific details next month!

Parent Teacher Conference FAQ

When are Parent/Teacher/Student Conferences?

Conferences will be held on Wednesday, October 14, 4:00-8:00 pm and Thursday, October 15, 12:30-8:30 pm.

How do I sign up for my conference slot?

Teachers will be contacting you with conference scheduling options. Please pick the option that works best for your family's schedule.

If I have multiple children do I have to do all conferences on the same day?

No. You have the freedom to schedule your conference time whenever you are available.

How/when will I be notified of my confirmed time?

Teachers will be notifying families of their confirmed times by Friday, October 9th. Please check all communication platforms for your individual meeting link.