Parent Newsletter

April 2024

What Do You Want To Learn About?

Dear Families,

The end of the school year is rapidly approaching, but the learning never stops. Our students are getting ready for the annual Showcase Night on May 15th. They will be showing off their projects on topics they selected themselves. Topics cover art, science, reading, writing, math, pop culture, and more!

All projects will be completed in class with the support of the teachers. Students will not be bringing their projects home to work on them. We want to make sure that projects are truly made by our students, not the adults they live with. This evens the playing field and allows our students to show off their amazing abilities.

While you are at Showcase Night, make sure to check out all of the projects. You never know what you might learn about. Last year a 5th grader demonstrated an open heart surgery. Our kindergartners researched and wrote about their favorite animals. And we even had a special guest--a bearded dragon!

Our students are amazing and this will be their time to shine!

Sincerely,

Mrs. Chandler

Awards Criteria

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There is nothing that we love more than celebrating our amazing students. Have you wondered how students are chosen for awards each month?

Student of the Month (PreK-5th)--Teachers and other staff select students who are role models that embody the month's character trait.. The character trait focus changes every month.
Honor Roll (K-5)--Students who earn all 3s (Meets Standards/At Grade Level Expectations) and 4s (Exceeds Standards/Above Grade Level Expectations) on their quarterly report card earn a spot on the honor roll.
ELA and Math Benchmark Growth Awards (2-5)--Students who improve at least one proficiency level on the benchmark tests earn this award. Proficiency levels progress from Minimally Proficient to Partially Proficient to Proficient and to Highly Proficient. Benchmark tests are given three times a year.
ELA and Math Benchmark Proficiency Awards (2-5)--Students who score Proficient or Highly Proficient on their benchmark tests earn this award. Benchmark tests are given three times a year.
DIBELS Growth (K-3)--DIBELS assesses a student's literacy skills. Students who improve at least one proficiency level earn this award. DIBELS proficiency levels progress from Well Below Benchmark to Below Benchmark to At Benchmark to Above Benchmark. DIBELS is given three times a year.
DIBELS Proficiency Awards (K-3)-- DIBELS assesses a student's literacy skills. Students who score At Benchmark or Above Benchmark on DIBELS earn this award. Benchmark tests are given three times a year.

Tax Credit Donations

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Did you know that Arizona families can donate to their local schools and receive a tax credit? The deadline to claim the deduction on your 2024 taxes is April 15, 2024. Those who are married and file jointly can receive credit for up to $400, while those who file individually can receive credit for up to $200. Donation money can be used for things such as equipment, fine arts, extracurricular activities, and field trips. Donations can be made at the link below.

Donate to Our Schools (tusd1.org)

Now Hiring

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The TUSD Exceptional Education Department is hiring for Dunham positions for the 2024-2025 school year. There are three autism aide positions available. If you are interested, visit the TUSD jobs page and apply for job #7658.

Exceptional Education Teacher Assistant (Open-Until-Filled) (tusd1.org)

March Character Strong Focus

Courage is the ability to do what is right even when it is hard.

Wish List

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Weekly Prizes--Small prizes to be used for our weekly PBIS drawing for students who earn Panther Paws. We will accept anything! Past donations have included party favors, markers, stickers, coupons for free items/food at local businesses, and dollar store items.

Microwave--We had two microwaves in the Teachers' Lounge, but one sadly melted. Two microwaves help to ensure that everyone has time to heat their lunches during their break.

2024-2025 Registration

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Remind your friends and family that registration is open for the 2024-2025 school year. The earlier they register, the better picture we will have of how many teachers we will need for next year.