March 2025 EMSD Newsletter

March Snapshot

Growing Through Play at the Early Learning Center
Early Learning Students at Play
EMSD Human Resources Department
The Technical Side of Technology
Parent University
Student IAR Assessments: What You Need to Know
Supporting Student Mental Health: A guide for EMSD Families
Digital Backpack

School Breakfast and Lunch Menus
March/April Calendar of Events

Growing Through Play at the East Moline Early Learning Center

At the East Moline Early Learning Center, we are proud to continue our 30-year legacy of providing a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment for our youngest learners. Serving approximately 200 students, ages 3 to 5, our mission is to create a culture where every child has the unique opportunity to explore and learn through play. Our mantra, "Growing Through Play," captures the heart of our approach, emphasizing the power of hands-on, developmentally appropriate experiences that foster growth in all areas of a child’s development.

Our dedicated staff is committed to building a strong school family where each member contributes their unique strengths to support the learning and well-being of all students. Collaboration is key to ensuring high levels of learning for every child, and we engage in daily, meaningful interactions that promote academic, social, and emotional growth.

As we continue to settle into our newly renovated, state-of-the-art facility, we remain deeply committed to our community and the partnership we share with families. Together, we create an environment where children can thrive, and families play an active role in their child’s educational journey.

We are excited for another year of growth, learning, and discovery as we continue to support our youngest learners in reaching their fullest potential. For more information about the early childhood programming available at the East Moline Early Learning Center, or to have your child screened to be considered for enrollment, please call our office at 309-865-6900.

Early Learning Students at Play

EMSD Human Resources Department

Spotlight on HR: Supporting Our East Moline Family

The Human Resources department is dedicated to ensuring East Moline School District remains a welcoming, supportive, and thriving environment for all employees. Our team is here to assist with everything from benefits and leave requests to system access and employment verification. One of our favorite parts of the job is welcoming new employees to EMSD—because we truly believe it is an amazing place to work!

Here’s how we can help:

Jacci Henson (jhenson@emsd37.org) supports employees with benefits enrollment, FMLA leave requests, and setting up retirement contributions to 403b accounts, IMRF voluntary contributions, or TRS supplemental savings plans.

Shelly Murphy (smurphy@emsd37.org) manages employment verification for mortgages and background checks, onboards substitutes and student teachers, and handles work injury cases.

Mary Clark (mclark@emsd37.org) ensures employees have the system access they need, manages Frontline and Skyward absence reporting, and assists with Frontline or timesheet questions and access issues. She is also a great resource regarding staff attendance policies, such as when superintendent approval is required for a personal day.

Tracy Anderson (tanderson@emsd37.org) leads the HR department, works with prospective employees to learn about EMSD, supports questions about licensure or teacher evaluation, and helps employees understand contract and district policies.

Whether you have a question or need assistance, our team is here to help. Visit our HR webpage for helpful resources and more information. If you or someone you know is interested in joining our team, check out our current job openings—we’d love to welcome you to EMSD!

The Technical Side of Technology

When we think about technology use, we often see students with Chromebooks, using different educational programs. Helping students understand the nuts and bolts inside the devices we use also has a powerful impact. When we know more about the devices we use, it opens up pathways to exploration of new career paths. It also aids in digital citizenship, taking more ownership of the devices we care for. Recently, Mr. Smith from the Technology Department took apart a device with students in Mrs. Manis' Science classes at Wells. Students had many questions about all the parts that help these devices work. A big thanks to Mr. Smith for sharing his passion about technology with our Wells students!

An adult taking apart a Chromebook as students observe

Parent University Offerings

Check out the wide variety of offerings for the 2024-2025 school year from authors, speakers, and other experts by clicking the image below. These are learning opportunities for parents/guardians are sponsored by the Glenbard Parent Series (GPS) and offered virtually via Zoom.

Student IAR Assessments: What You Need to Know

Beginning the week of March 3rd, students in grades 3 - 8 will take the Illinois Assessment of Readiness (IAR). This test covers both English Language Arts and Math. In addition, grades 5 and 8 will take the Illinois Science Assessment. These assessments are required by the state and help us understand how our students are growing academically, compared to their peers across the state. The state uses this information to provide more support and resources to the schools in the greatest need. Testing will take place throughout the month of March. Please check with your child's teacher to find out specific dates of testing.

Let's work together to build your child's confidence and prepare them for upcoming state testing! Here are some practical ways you can support their success:

Time Management: Help your child arrive at school on time, ensuring a smooth start to the testing day.
Optimal Performance: Ensure they get a good night's sleep to maximize their focus and concentration.
Brain Power: Provide a nutritious breakfast or encourage them to eat at school to fuel their minds and bodies.
Understanding the Task: Encourage them to listen carefully to instructions and clarify any questions beforehand.
Maintaining Composure: Teach them simple techniques, like deep breaths, to stay focused and composed.
Positive Reinforcement: Encourage them to do their best! Some of the questions may be difficult - all we ask is they try their best!

Remember, your positive reinforcement and encouragement are invaluable. By working together, we can help your child feel confident and do their best! Thank you for your partnership.