Friday Focus

• A Message from Marcie
• Report Cards
  
• Congratulations, Mr. Medow!
• Dr. Faust's Summer Read
• Important Fall Dates
• Lunch Supervisors and Subs Wanted
• Summer Opportunities for Students

Dear South Park Families,

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our incredible staff for their dedication in supporting the diverse needs of our students and creating a nurturing and exciting learning environment for all. We are lucky to have such a caring and committed group of professionals who demonstrate continuous effort and passion in fostering a positive and enriching school community for the students at South Park.

To our South Park families, thank you for your support and collaboration; we know that raising children today is no easy task. Your dedication and involvement are crucial to our students' success and well-being. We deeply appreciate all you do to work alongside us in nurturing and educating your children. To our 5th grade families, as your children embark on their middle school journey, we wish them continued success and confidence, knowing that your support and dedication have prepared them well for this exciting new chapter.

I hope that everyone enjoys the slower rhythm of summer and embraces the opportunity to make lasting memories with family and friends!

Happy Summer!

-Marcie

Report Cards will be available in Skyward Family Access under the Portfolio tab at 3:00 on June 7th.

For each academic standard, a child will receive an M for mastery, a P for progressing, or an N for Not Yet. Mastery indicates that the child is able to independently and consistently apply the knowledge. Progressing means that the child is still securing mastery. Not yet means that the child continues to work on prerequisite skills.

Today, we celebrate the remarkable retirement of Mr. Medow, who has dedicated 26 years to teaching at South Park Elementary School. Throughout his career, he has touched the lives of hundreds of students, leaving an indelible legacy of kindness, dedication, and inspiration. As one of the most beloved members of our staff, his presence will be deeply missed by students and colleagues alike. Thank you, Mr. Medow, for inspiring so many young minds and for leaving an impact with your kind and gentle heart.

At the top of Dr. Faust's reading list this summer is a book called the "Anxious Generation" by Jonathan Haidt.

"The Anxious Generation" explores the rising levels of anxiety among today's youth, examining the societal pressures and digital influences contributing to this mental health crisis. The book provides practical strategies for parents and educators to support children in managing stress and developing resilience. Families of elementary students will find it especially valuable for its actionable advice on fostering emotional well-being and creating a balanced environment, crucial for their children's early development.

Stay tuned for an upcoming South Park parent event where we will explore the book's key ideas and discuss how we, as a community, can implement its insights to better support our children's mental health and well-being.

We continue to look for lunch supervisors for the 2024-25 school year! The lunch supervision shifts run from 11:20-12:20 and 12:20-1:20. If you know someone interested in working with children to keep them safe and supported while helping them problem-solve with their peers, please have them contact Dr. Faust at mfaust@dps109.org to learn more about our openings for next year.

In addition, we are always looking for substitutes for lunch. If you would like to be added to our sub list, please let Dr. Faust know.