PLA@103 Friday Family News
The PLA@103 Phalen Falcons - United We SUCCEED
PLA@103 Friday Family News
December 13, 2024
PLA@103 Falcons - United We SUCCEED
Read on for information including upcoming early dismissal dates and school breaks, Scholar of the Month Nominations and the Scholar of the Month Recipient, our Falcon Families Read event, cold weather and recess guidelines, Holiday Assistance Resources, safety information about drop off and pick up, important upcoming dates, a partnership with Boys and Girls Club for after school, our wireless device policy, our uniform policy, and information from our school nurse.
Early Dismissal is WEDNESDAY, December 18 at 11:20am
Mark your calendars! Please plan to pick up your car rider at 11:20am on WEDNESDAY, December 18, 2024.
Winter Break - No School - December 19, 2024 -January 6, 2025
There is no school December 19, 2024 - January 6, 2025 due to Winter Break.
Scholars return to school on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.
SCHOLAR of the MONTH Nominations
The following scholars were NOMINATED for Scholar of the Month for November:
KINDERGARTEN-
*Ms. Beal nominated Melanie Rosa-Cruz in Ms. Warren's class and had this to say about the scholar, "Melanie is always so kind and helpful during lunch. She helps her friends get an adult's attention when something is wrong."
*Ms. McKinney nominated Kam’yla Early in Ms. Warren's class and had this to say about the scholar, "She is doing a great job reading and being very helpful to other scholars in the school."
*Ms. Singleton nominated Wood Kelly Carlensky Milien and had this to say about the scholar, "Wood Kelly is a great leader for other students! He listens to teachers and is kind to friends. Wood Kelly has a love for learning and comes to school everyday with a smile and positive attitude. He always works hard and participates during lessons. We love his smile and joy for life!"
*Mr Stock nominated Annie-Berlinda Jean and had this to say about the scholar, "Annie is an outstanding candidate for Student of the Month because she consistently exemplifies respect, hard work, and the Falcon Way. She treats her classmates and teachers with kindness and consideration, creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere in the classroom. Annie approaches every task with determination and enthusiasm, demonstrating her commitment to doing her best and encouraging others to do the same. Whether she’s participating in group activities, following school rules, or helping a friend, Annie is a shining example of what it means to be a dedicated and respectful student. Her exemplary behavior and unwavering effort make her a true role model in our kindergarten class."
*Miss Adams nominated Bervaly Alcius and had this to say about the scholar, "I am excited to recognize Bervaly as my Scholar of the Month! Bervaly consistently goes above and beyond in all of her work. She is not only a great helper to her teachers and classmates but also shows incredible effort in her learning. Over the past month, Bervaly has made significant progress in writing her name, mastering her letters, and improving her letter sounds. Her dedication to her studies and her positive attitude make her a standout scholar in my class. She is always eager to learn and shows kindness to others, making her a role model for her peers."
*Mr. Miller nominated Audias Caceres Marquez and had this to say about the scholar, "Audias consistently follows directions, demonstrating great listening skills and responsibility. He goes above and beyond when completing his schoolwork, showcasing his dedication and enthusiasm for learning. Additionally, he treats all his classmates with kindness contributing to a positive and supportive classroom environment. Audias' efforts are truly commendable!"
FIRST GRADE-
*Ms. Spychalski nominated Kherah Searcy in Ms. Dalton's room and had this to say about the scholar, "Kherah is always participating and applying herself. She is a hard worker and is exceeding my expectations. She's a great role model for other scholars."
*Ms. Dalton nominated Christian Estrada Estrada and had this to say about the scholar, "He's a dedicated ELL scholar who is exceling by focusing intently on his work and actively engaging in class when he can. His determination and effort shine, demonstrating resilience and a strong commitment to learning."
*Mr. Maschino-Smith nominated David Rosales-Bulfeda and had this to say about the scholar, "David is a role model when it comes to knowing PLA's expectations inside the classroom and out. His participation in class is stellar, even when he is unsure, he is not afraid to take a chance on growing his knowledge."
*Mr. Baluja nominated Briana Flores Hernandez in Ms. Teroba's class and had this to say about the scholar, "She is articulate, respectful and helpful."
SECOND GRADE-
*Ms. Williams nominated Marquise Scott and had this to say about the scholar, "Marquise works hard in all his work and does his best. Marquise is a great helper in the classroom."
*Ms. Miller nominated Alexandro Sebastien Jeune in Ms. Hesser's class and had this to say about the scholar, "Alexandro always gives 100% during O.G. time."
*Ms. Hesser nominated Antonio Bledsoe and had this to say about the scholar, "Antonio is always a hard worker and does his best to be here on time every day before the bell! He gets everything he needs to done above and beyond and then will go to help others!! Antonio is always respectful and kind to everyone around him."
*Ms. Harris nominated Ayden Thompson and had this to say about the scholar, "Ayden has been improving academically. In the last 10 weeks, he has received seven 100%, two 94%, and 95% on Vimme. He has also increased his reading score and moved to a higher RAI group last week. He has asked to take Rigby Readers home to read and work on the comprehension questions with his mom. He is a good friend to everyone. He makes sure everyone is happy and safe and goes out of his way to help support others when learning new material. He asks every day if he had a good day because he is so concerned with always doing the right thing. Ayden should be our scholar of the month because he is a shining star in our class and school and is a wonderful example of what it means to be a scholar at PLA 103."
THIRD GRADE-
*Ms. Oberson nominated Marely Guillermo-Martinez and had this to say about the scholar, "I’m nominating Marely for Scholar of the Month because she has proven herself to be a leader. Marely displays a strong sense of pride in everything that she does at school."
*Ms. Brooks nominated Sirinety Jones in Ms. Bingham's class and had this to say about the scholar, "I nominated Sirinety for Student of the Month because she has excellent attendance, she always shows kindness to everyone around her, and comes to school ready to work. She does what is asked the first time, and participates every day in our Reading Intervention group!"
*Ms. Mundorf nominated Bradley Martinez and had this to say about the scholar, "Bradley is coming to school everyday ready to learn and succeed in everything he does. He is always completing his work in a timely manner and always makes sure to triple check his work before it is completed. With the highest grades in the class, he is always sharing his knowledge with his classmates and using his skills to teach those around them when they need help."
FOURTH GRADE-
*Ms. Friedly nominated Linsi Ramirez and had this to say about the scholar, "Linsi is a tremendous leader. She works hard and is always helping others. Linsi participates, follows along, asks questions and applies high level thinking to her work."
*Ms. Stevenson nominated Kahley Searcy and had this to say about the scholar, "Kahley is always working hard and participating in class. This past month, Kahley has welcomed a new student in such a friendly way. I can always count on Kahley to have a positive attitude and try her very best."
FIFTH GRADE-
*Mr. Dickey nominated Jefferson Bonilla-Solano and had this to say about the scholar, "Jefferson has been on the classroom leaderboard consistently and always has a good attitude. Great job Jefferson."
*Ms. Leslie nominated Corbin Wills and had this to say about the scholar, "He is a kind and generous scholar. He is an active participant in his learning and strives to do to his personal best."
*Mr. Forey nominated Evelyn Diaz Sanchez and had this to say about the scholar, "Evelyn comes to school to learn! She loves a challenge in class, and she is always wanting more. Evelyn is a great peer model of respectful, responsible, and safe at school."
*Ms. Hornaday nominated Aubrielle Dunn and had this to say about the scholar, "Aubrielle is always in a great mood when she walks into the classroom in the morning. Having Aubrielle in my room is always such a joy because she brings the laughter in with her. She is always willing to help others. She works super hard to get her work done no matter the challenge that is in her way. She has shown tremendous growth in her behavior from the beginning of the year until now."
SIXTH GRADE-
*Ms. Hollowell nominated Isaac Baten-Ramirez and had this to say about the scholar, "Isaac has faced a lot of challenges this year. However, he makes sure to always complete his assignments and work to his full potential in class."
*Ms. Tschudy nominated Jose Diaz Ulloa in Ms. Dominguez's class and had this to say about the scholar, "Jose has been working hard in classes as well as doing extra homework to improve his English."
*Ms. Dominguez nominated Jonathan CaCeres and had this to say about the scholar, "Jonathan is a hard worker. He comes to school everyday ready to learn. He try's his best on all his assignments and tests. He remains calm and focuses on himself and his school work even when his classmates aren't."
SCHOLARS of the MONTH Recipients for NOVEMBER
Please help us congratulate the following scholars for being chosen as November's Scholar of the Month:
Kindergarten-
Bervaly Alcius
First Grade-
Christian Estrada Estrada
Second Grade-
Marquise Scott
Third Grade-
Sirinety Jones
Fourth Grade-
Linsi Ramirez
Fifth Grade-
Jefferson Bonilla-Solano
Sixth Grade-
Jonathan CaCeres
Our Staff Member of the Month:
Ms. Yessy Benitez
Introducing Our Newest Initiative...
PLA@103 Falcon Families Read!
Here at PLA@103 we work hard to help our scholars grow and reach their personal best. One skill that all life-long learners need is READING! The competition began December 2! Our scholars and their families have already started reading and recording their minutes!
Do you already have a library card? If not, you can get one for free at your local Marion County Public Library. (While you don't HAVE to have a library card, it's fun to check-out books from your local library to read with your family at home.)
Read on for all the details:
From December 2-January 17, scholars and families should set a goal to read at least 15 minutes five days a week. Track your reading on the Falcon Families Read paper reading log we sent home (ask your teacher for another one if needed!) or scan the QR code in the bottom left of this flyer to submit your minutes online. Individual prizes will be given for 525 minutes, 700 minutes, and 875 minutes or MORE! Classroom prizes will be awarded per grade level, and an overall TOP CLASSROOM will be chosen! Extra points can be earned by submitting photos with your library card and/or of you/your family reading!
Cold Weather Guidelines
Winter Weather and Recess
Parents/Families,
Please be sure your child is coming to school dressed appropriately for the weather. Recess will take place outdoors as the weather permits, and scholars should be dressed for that. Coats, hats, and gloves are a necessity. If your child is in need of a winter coat, hat, or gloves, please contact the school.
Ideally, recess should take place outdoors on school grounds as weather, space, and safety permit. Outdoor recess allows children to get fresh air, provides an opportunity for children to engage in moderate to vigorous physical activity, and gives students more activity options than most indoor spaces. Outdoor recess is an important part of a child’s school day and schools are highly encouraged to provide students with the opportunity to play outside whenever possible. PLA@103 uses the following guidelines to determine whether recess is held indoors or outdoors each day:
Holiday Assistance Resources
We have gathered information for those looking for holiday assistance:
Please find holiday assistance resources in English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole HERE.
DO NOT PULL INTO THE BUS LANES BY THE SIDEWALK
All cars should pull up to the circle. NO CARS can be in the bus lane by the sidewalks until all 6 buses have been loaded and have departed.
Car Rider Procedures
Please Follow These Procedures to Keep Our Scholars Safe
*Please note, we have more buses this year. The front sidewalk/curb IS NOT available, and is not the designated drop off area due to safety concerns. Cars may not be in the bus lane until all six buses have been loaded and have departed.*
MORNING DROP OFF
*Doors open at 7:30am
* Do not drop scholars off before 7:30am. due to safety concerns.
* Do not drop scholars off anywhere but the circle drive.
* Pull as far forward as possible; do not drop scholars off until you've
pulled up to where staff are directing you to go
* Encourage your scholar to exit the vehicle quickly
* Stay in line. Dropping children off in the middle of the
circle drive is an extreme safety hazard that puts your child(ren) and others at risk.
* If you arrive after 8:15am, you must walk your child to the door and buzz to be let in.
Your child will be marked tardy.
* If you arrive at 10:30am or later, your scholar will not be admitted unless you
provide a written excuse from a medical professional. This will be an unexcused absence.
*Please note, we have more buses this year. The front sidewalk/curb IS NOT available as the pick-up line. Cars may not be in the bus lane until all six buses have been loaded and have departed.*
AFTERNOON DISMISSAL/PICK-UP
* If your child is walking home, they will not be dismissed until the busses have left.
* If your child is a car rider, you must be in the car rider line ON THE CIRCLE.
* There will be a staff member at the entrance to the circle drive.
You must stop and speak to them to give them your car rider number.
* Your child will not be dismissed from class until you've given your car rider number.
* DO NOT cut line. Your number will be skipped, and you'll end up waiting longer.
* DO NOT park and walk up to the building. STAY IN LINE.
* We know the line looks long, but it moves fast when everyone
cooperates and follows the procedures.
* Stay in line. Do not encourage your child to walk into the parking lot.
This is an extreme safety issue.
* Encourage your child to enter the vehicle quickly so the line can move efficiently.
* Talk to your child about exiting the building quickly.
They are not to stop by other classrooms or hang around in the halls talking to friends.
* Honking adds unnecessary noise and stress to the procedure. Please don't honk.
* Do not encourage your child to come to your vehicle if you are far back in line.
If you are changing the way your scholar gets home (permanently or temporarily) please call the office before 1:30pm (317-226-4103).
Scholars will not be dismissed early unless you arrive before 1:30pm. Please plan accordingly.
The office phones will not be answered after 1:30pm so that we may carry out safe and organized end-of-day and dismissal routines.
THANK YOU FOR FOLLOWING THESE PROCEDURES TO KEEP OUR SCHOLARS SAFE.
IMPORTANT DATES
Mark Your Calendars
* December 2-January 17 - Falcon Families Read
* Decmber 18 - 11:20am EARLY DISMISSAL- Please plan ahead and be on time!
* December 19-January 6 - WINTER BREAK - No School!
* January 7- Scholars Return to School
* January 15- 11:20am EARLY DISMISSAL - Please plan ahead and be on time!
* January 20- NO SCHOOL - Martin Luther King Jr. Day
* February 5- 11:20am EARLY DISMISSAL - Please plan ahead and be on time!
* February 17 - NO SCHOOL- Presidents Day
* February 26 - Spring PIT Day Conferences - Your scholar's teacher will be in touch if a conference is requested.
* March 3-14 - IREAD testing for grades 2nd and 3rd
* March 28 - 11:20am EARLY DISMISSAL - Please plan ahead and be on time!
* March 31-April 4 - SPRING BREAK - No School!
* April 7 - Scholars return to school
* April 9 - 11:20am EARLY DISMISSAL - Please plan ahead and be on time!
* April 14-May 9 - ILEARN testing for grades 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th
* May 26 - NO SCHOOL - Memorial Day
* June 4 - 11:20am EARLY DISMISSAL - Please plan ahead and be on time! LAST DAY OF SCHOOL
Boys & Girls Club Afterschool Resource
WIRELESS DEVICE PROHIBITION
PLA@103 Updated Cellphone/Device Policy
In response to the statewide Senate Bill (SB 185) passing and going into effect as state law in 2024, PLA@103 will operate within the following guidelines and procedures regarding all personal student devices (including cell phones and smart watches) during the school day (7:30am-2:30pm):
Scholars are encouraged to keep all electronic devices (including cell phones and smart watches) home during the school day.
Scholars who chose to bring their personal devices (including cell phones and smart watches) to school will be required to keep the device(s) in their backpack or a protected collection container within the classroom based on the teacher’s discretion.
If the device is out during the school day, the scholar will be asked to give it to the teacher until the end of the school day.
If the scholar refuses to turn in their device, the teacher will refer them to the Dean through an official write-up.
Progressive discipline will be instituted in ordinance with SB 185.
1st offense - give phone to teacher; warning; teacher documents and informs parent
Official write up to Dean if scholar refuses to turn in phone; teacher documents and informs parent
2nd offense - write up to Dean; Dean contacts parent; phone stays with Dean until parent can retrieve
3rd offense - write up to Dean; Dean contacts parent; ISS; phone stays with Dean until parent can retrieve and meet with Dean or administrator
4th offense - write up to Dean; Dean contacts parent; 2 days ISS; phone stays with Dean until parent can retrieve and meet with Dean or administrator
5th offense - write up to Dean; Dean contacts parent; wireless device suspension (scholar’s device will remain with Dean during the school day for 1-2 weeks depending on severity of the insubordination)
6th offense and beyond - write up to Dean; Dean contacts parent; wireless device suspension (scholar’s device will remain with Dean during the school day for 1-2 weeks depending on severity of the insubordination); parents, Dean, administrators meet to discuss next steps in regards to OSS or expulsion.
UNIFORM POLICY
School Nurse Corner
Welcome to Nurse Sara's Corner!
Please see important health information from Nurse Sara below (click the images to enlarge).
PICTURES FROM AROUND THE SCHOOL
PLA@103 Mission & Vision
Mission: Our mission is to ensure that each of our scholars meet high academic and social standards, and thrive as leaders at home, in their communities, and in the world.
Vision: Our ultimate goal is that our scholars master key academic skills, and demonstrate strong character as exhibited by: honesty, service to others, a superior work ethic, and a strong vision for and belief in their futures.