The Corley Cheer
Community Edition: April Newsletter
Message from Mrs. Duckworth
Greetings Corley Community!
The month of March was OUTSTANDING! Thank you to our community and staff members who helped to make this month a huge success! Corley Elementary is exceptional and we do a great job of having fun with the community while keeping instruction at the forefront. Our PTA is up and running, thanks to the beautiful Corley Community. It was so great to see our PTA support during the Shamrock Shake. Be on the lookout for them during Field Day and more!
Believe it or not, we have not only arrived at Spring Break but we are getting very close to the Georgia Milestones. As a gentle reminder, please ensure that your students are getting ample rest and breakfast during this time. However, we will provide breakfast as usual on these days. We will continue to work with you as we close the year out.
Thank you again for being such a supportive community for our Corley Scholars. Please read the Community Corley Cheer below and we can't wait to see you soon. Have a wonderful Spring Break!
Corley Administrative Team
Mrs. Hollace Ervin- Special Education Services and Specials
Mrs. Tammy Knox- Kindergarten, 1st Grade, and ESOL Services
Mrs. Morgan Mendieta Hudson- 2nd Grade, 3rd Grade, and ESOL Services
Mr. Gregory Jackson- 4th Grade and 5th Grade
Proud to be your principal,
Mrs. Aleshia Duckworth
April News
Spring Break
Mark your calendars! Spring Break is kicking off Monday, April 1st, to Friday, April 5th. During this week-long break, GCPS is closed. This is the perfect opportunity to recharge, explore new places, or relax at home. Whether a beach getaway or a staycation filled with hobbies, make the most of this time to unwind with your family and come back refreshed for the final stretch of the school year.
GCPS Blueprint for The Future
- Goal 1.B-Staff and Student Wellbeing.
Pre-order a Yearbook Today!
Don't miss this opportunity to get your child's yearbook for the 2023-2024 school year. You can pre-order it online until April 12, 2024 for only $30. Visit MyPaymentsPlus to secure your copy of this memorable keepsake!
GCPS Blueprint for The Future
- Goal 1.B-Staff and Student Wellbeing.
- Goal 2.B-Opportunity and Access.
- Goal 4.A-Preferred Education Destination.
Field Day
Get ready for some sunshine, friendly competition, and tons of fun! Field Day is coming up, with exciting activities planned for all our students.
Here's a look at the schedule by grade level:
- Monday, April 8th: 2nd & 5th Grade
- Tuesday, April 9th: Kindergarten & 3rd Grade
- Wednesday, April 10th: 1st & 4th Grade
Parents Welcome!
We encourage parents to join us for the festivities! Feel free to cheer on your child's class during the games from 9:30 am to 11:30 am.
Early Dismissal Information
Please note that if you need to check your child out early, they must remain with their class until the front office confirms their dismissal. Please head to the main office to complete checkout procedures. However, it's important to remember that students who leave early will miss out on the rest of the fun field day activities!
Kona Ice
Kona Ice will be available for purchase to keep everyone cool and refreshed! See the flyer below for more details.
GCPS Blueprint for The Future
- Goal 1.B-Staff and Student Wellbeing.
- Goal 4.A-Preferred education destination.
All Pro Dads
Our last ALL Pro Dad Chapter Meeting of the 2023-24 school year is on April 19th at 7:30am. The All Pro Dad Chapter is a monthly program that aims to strengthen the bond between fathers and their children. During our fourth meeting we will engage in meaningful conversations and activities centered around the "Forgiveness" curriculum. (Click here to RSVP.)
GCPS Blueprint For The Future
- Goal 1.B-Staff and student wellbeing.
- Goal 4.A-Preferred education destination.
Kindergarten Registration: April 19, 2024
🎒 Attention Corley Elementary School Families! 🎒
Is there a little one at home who will be turning 5 on or before September 1st, 2024? If so, we have exciting news! Kindergarten Registration is just around the corner, and we can’t wait to welcome the class of 2037 to our vibrant school community.
Here are the details you need to know:
🗓️ Kindergarten Registration Date: Mark your calendars for April 19, 2024—that’s when our registration process kicks off for the 2024-2025 school year. It’s an important step as your children take their first educational leap into kindergarten.
🏫 Who Should Attend?: Enrolling parents and their rising Kindergarten students.
📝 Registration Steps:
1. Complete the GCPS Online Registration: Visit the GCPS Online Registration Homepage to get started. Whether you’re new to GCPS or have another child already enrolled, follow the appropriate link to create or use your existing ParentVue account.
2. Upload Required Documents: Make sure you have the following documents ready:
- An official proof of your child’s birth date (birth certificate or passport).
- Two proofs of residency within our attendance zone (1. lease, property tax, deed & 2. utility- electric, water)
- A Georgia certificate of immunization (Form #3231) or a notarized Affidavit of Religious Exemption.
- Evidence of vision, hearing, dental, and nutrition screenings obtained in the past year (Current Georgia Form #3300).
- A valid photo ID.
3. We’re Here to Assist: During registration, your child will have the opportunity to work with our staff on the Kindergarten Readiness Entry Profile. We’re committed to ensuring a smooth transition for every little learner.
🌟 Let’s make this milestone memorable! For more information, visit the Corley Elementary School website or call us at (678) 924-5330. We can’t wait to meet our newest Corley Patriots! 🏫
💻Can't make it in person? Upload all of the required documents online, submit your registration, and give us a call! ☎
GCPS Blueprint for The Future
- Goal 2.B-Opportunity and Access.
- Goal 4.A-Preferred Education Destination.
GMAS Testing
The Milestones EOG is administered to 3rd–5th grade students each spring. All grades will take English/Language Arts and Mathematics Assessments. Fifth graders also take a science test. The results of these tests provide information about the student’s readiness for the next grade level. Testing dates are as follows:
- April 22-24: Language Arts (3rd-5th)
- April 29-30: Math (3rd-5th)
- May 2: Science (5th only)
Testing will begin at 8:45am so please make sure that your child is on time, well rested, and has a healthy breakfast to help them focus and perform their best! Please note, we cannot accommodate lunch visitors during the testing window from April 22-May 10. Thank you for your understanding!
For GMAS study guides and resources, click HERE.
GCPS Blueprint for The Future
- Goal 2.A-Multi-tiered System of Supports.
- Goal 2.B-Opportunity and Access.
Save the Date: Title I Planning Meeting!
Join us for the upcoming Title I Planning Meeting on Friday, April 26th at 9:30 am!
What is the Title I Planning Meeting?
This annual meeting is your chance to learn about Corley's progress and data, and to share your voice in shaping our school improvement plans for next year.
Why is your input important?
We value your feedback! This meeting is an opportunity for you to share:
- Strategies that helped your child succeed this year
- Ideas for future programs and supports
The information gathered at this meeting will be used at both the district and school level to develop our new Title I Promise/Plan. This plan outlines the strategies we will use to ensure all students achieve their full potential.
What happens after the meeting?
Following the meeting, you will have the opportunity to review and provide feedback on the draft of the new Title I plan.
Why is parent engagement important?
Your participation in this process is critical. Strong partnerships between home and school are key to student success!
We hope to see you there!
GCPS Blueprint for The Future
- Goal 2.A-Multi-tiered System of Supports.
- Goal 2.B-Opportunity and Access.
- Goal 4.A-Preferred Education Destination.
Berkmar Football & Cheer 🏈📣
Media Center Updates
Join us in celebrating neurodiversity and learning more about autism with Ms. Fisher this April!
Students are welcome to visit the Media Center to participate in activities and grab a puzzle piece take-home craft. This is a great opportunity to broaden your understanding and show support for classmates with Autism.
Additionally, all staff and students are invited to participate in a school-wide "Blue Out" on Thursday, April 11th. Wear blue to show your acceptance and support!
GCPS Blueprint for The Future
- Goal 1.B-Staff and Student Wellbeing.
- Goal 2.B-Opportunity and Access.
- Goal 4.A-Preferred Education Destination.
What's Happening in Specials
Take a look at how our Kindergarten through 5th-grade students are building social and emotional skills in SEL Specials with Ms. Fann! From identifying emotions to collaborating in trust-building activities, students are learning valuable tools for success in school and life. In Physical Education (PE), students are exploring new ways of learning with Coach Hodnette and Coach Carmenaty. Through a variety of movement-based activities, our young learners are not only staying active but also enhancing their cognitive skills.
GCPS Blueprint for The Future
- Goal 1.B-Staff and Student Wellbeing.
- Goal 2.B-Opportunity and Access.
- Goal 4.A-Preferred Education Destination.
March Highlights
The School of the Arts Singing Performance
A huge round of applause for the talented fifth-grade singers from Corley Elementary! On Friday, March 15th, they joined over 400 students from across Gwinnett County Public Schools for a captivating performance at The School of the Arts.
The chorus, led by the dedicated Ms. Adams, delivered a remarkable performance that left the audience in awe. Their hard work and passion for music truly shone through. We are incredibly proud of their accomplishment!
GCPS Blueprint for The Future
- Goal 1.B-Staff and student wellbeing.
- Goal 2.B-Opportunity and Access.
Career Week
During the week of March 18-22, Corley Elementary was filled with energy as we held our annual Career Week! Students participated in a variety of activities designed to introduce them to the exciting world of work.
The week was a great opportunity for students to learn about different careers, explore their interests, and start thinking about their futures. We'd like to thank our Corley Counselors and the volunteers for their hard work in making Career Week a success!
GCPS Blueprint for The Future
- Goal 1. B-Staff and student wellbeing.
- Goal 4. A-Preferred Education Destination.
Marvelous Moosey Author Visit
We were thrilled to welcome children's book authors Steve and Dawn Woodburn to Corley Elementary!
The Woodburns are the creators of the delightful children's book, "Marvelous Moosey." The heartwarming story follows Moosey, a young moose who learns from his wise friend, Winston the Owl, that "being unique is marvelous." Inspired by this message, Moosey sets out on a journey to spread joy and kindness, making new friends around the world.
The visit was a wonderful opportunity for our students to meet the authors, hear them read "Marvelous Moosey," and learn more about the creative process behind writing children's books. It was a truly inspiring day!
GCPS Blueprint for The Future
- Goal 1.A-Cultural Competence.
- Goal 2.B-Opportunity and Access.
GCPS Tapestry Art Show
Every year, Gwinnett County Public Schools requires that each school participates in the Tapestry Art Show. Ms. Flores Santos has created a BEAUTIFUL display to represent the artistic greatness among our Corley Scholars. We are so thankful for her creativity and leadership. It was a joy to see our school's display at the J. Alvin Wilbanks Instructional Support Center (ISC).
GCPS Blueprint for The Future
- Goal 1.B-Staff and student wellbeing.
- Goal 2.B-Opportunity and Access.
School Social Work Week
March was Social Work Month, and here at Corley Elementary, we wanted to take a moment to recognize School Social Work Week!
School social workers play a vital role in our school community. They work to support teaching and learning by helping to ensure that every student thrives. This includes removing barriers to education, promoting social and emotional well-being, and advocating for student success.
We are incredibly grateful to our social worker, Mr. Vargas, for his dedication to excellence, empathy, and equity in education. His work helps create a positive learning environment for all our students.
Thank you, Mr. Vargas!
GCPS Blueprint for The Future
- Goal 1.B-Staff and Student Wellbeing.
- Goal 2.A-Multi-tiered System of Supports.
- Goal 2.B-Opportunity and Access.
- Goal 4.A-Preferred Education Destination.
Gwinnett Regional Science, Engineering + Innovation Fair
We are excited to announce the incredible achievement of our very own 3rd grader, Maxton A.! Maxton recently participated in the Gwinnett Regional Science, Engineering + Innovation Fair, where he impressed the judges with his project on Food Insecurity.
Maxton's dedication, creativity, and passion for science were evident in his project, which earned him a well-deserved 1st place win in his category! We are incredibly proud of Maxton's accomplishment and his commitment to tackling important issues.
Congratulations, Maxton!
GCPS Blueprint for The Future
- Goal 1.B-Staff and Student Wellbeing.
- Goal 2.B-Opportunity and Access.
- Goal 4.A-Preferred Education Destination.
Book Fair
Our Spring Scholastic Book Fair, held during parent-teacher conferences, was a resounding success! It was a week filled with excitement as students explored the wide selection of books, from captivating chapter books to colorful picture books.
The Book Fair provided a wonderful opportunity for families to connect and discover new reads together. Parents and teachers enjoyed browsing alongside students, helping them select books that sparked their curiosity and fueled their love of reading.
Thanks to everyone who participated! The funds raised from the Book Fair will be used to support Media Center programs, as well as purchase new titles for Corley's bookshelves.
But the love of reading doesn't stop here! Mark your calendars – we're thrilled to announce a special BOGO (Buy One, Get One) Book Fair in May. This is a fantastic opportunity for our Corley scholars to stock up on books and head into summer with adventures waiting at their fingertips!
GCPS Blueprint for The Future
- Goal 2.B-Opportunity and Access.
- Goal 4.A-Preferred Education Destination.
SEL Day
At Corley Elementary, we are committed to nurturing the whole child – and that includes our faculty and staff! Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) isn't just for students; it's a school-wide initiative that benefits everyone.
What is SEL?
SEL focuses on building healthy social and emotional skills. This includes skills like self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. By developing these skills, students are better equipped to succeed in all areas of life, both inside and outside the classroom. The same is true for our staff – strong social-emotional skills allow them to navigate challenges, manage stress, and build positive relationships with students and colleagues.
How Corley Implements SEL:
- Curriculum: Ms. Fann leads a comprehensive SEL curriculum that provides students with opportunities to learn and practice social-emotional skills.
- Staff Development: Our entire team participates in ongoing professional development focused on SEL best practices. This ensures we are all equipped to identify and support students' social-emotional needs, and to develop our own social-emotional skills.
- Focus on Kindness: We actively promote kindness and reflection around the concept of becoming "Purpose-Full People." This includes reviewing the impact of kindness and exploring ways to foster it within our school community.
- Staff Wellbeing: We recognize the importance of staff well-being, which directly impacts students' experience. On SEL Day, we celebrated by transforming the Wellness Room into a haven of relaxation and connection. Faculty and staff were treated to healthy snacks and refreshments, providing an opportunity to de-stress, connect with colleagues, and recharge.
We believe that a strong foundation in social-emotional skills is essential for the success of our entire school community. Through our comprehensive SEL program, we are creating a positive and supportive learning environment where everyone can thrive.
GCPS Blueprint for The Future
- Goal 1.B-Staff and Student Wellbeing.
- Goal 2.B-Opportunity and Access.
- Goal 4.A-Preferred Education Destination.
🍀ShamROCK Shake🍀
Corley Elementary's 3rd annual "ShamROCK Shake!" was a roaring success! The night was filled with energy as Corley students danced the night away to the tunes of our very own "DJ Leprechaun," Mr. Huttinga!
We'd like to extend a huge thank you to everyone who helped make this event possible:
- Dr. Davis & Ms. Santangelo: Thank you for your dedication in planning this fun-filled event for our students!
- DJ Leprechaun (Mr. Huttinga): Your awesome music selection, dazzling lights, and energetic MC skills kept the party going all night!
- Staff Volunteers: We are incredibly grateful to all the staff members who volunteered their time to set up, chaperone, and help make the event run smoothly.
- Parents and Berkmar HS Volunteers: A special shout out to our Corley parents and the volunteers from Berkmar High School who also lent a hand. Your support is invaluable and creates a wonderful sense of community spirit.
The ShamROCK Shake is a cherished tradition at Corley, and it wouldn't be possible without the hard work and dedication of so many. Thank you for making it a night to remember!
GCPS Blueprint for The Future
- Goal 1.B-Staff and Student Wellbeing.
- Goal 2.B-Opportunity and Access.
- Goal 4.A-Preferred Education Destination.
Title I Parent Workshops (GMAS)
Want to help your child succeed on the Georgia Milestones? We recently held a workshop to provide tips and strategies for test preparation.
Couldn't make it? No worries, you can still access the helpful information! We've attached the presentations in both English and Spanish below. These resources will equip you to support your child's learning and boost their confidence on test day.
If you have questions, please reach out to our Family Engagement Center.
GCPS Blueprint for The Future
- Goal 2.A-Multi-tiered System of Supports.
- Goal 2.B-Opportunity and Access.
Fine Arts Week
GCPS Blueprint for The Future
- Goal 2.B-Opportunity and Access.
- Goal 4.A-Preferred Education Destination.
Read Across America
Corley staff & students celebrated Read Across America Week with a week of fantastic dress-up days that ignited our love of reading. Huge thanks to Ms. Rouse, Ms. Santangelo, and Ms. Fisher for masterminding this creative adventure!
Here's a peek into the themed days that had everyone flipping for a good book:
- College Gear Day: Students and staff repped their favorite colleges, showing their school spirit and maybe hinting at their future literary pursuits!
- Camera Ready Day: Everyone put on their best smiles and donned their sharpest outfits, channeling their inner bookworms and getting ready to make a great impression on their favorite authors.
- Cultural Attire Day: Our classrooms became a global library! Students and staff showcased their cultural heritage through clothing and accessories, celebrating the diversity of stories waiting to be discovered.
- Character Day: Fiction came to life! Students dressed as their favorite characters, proving that the best adventures are often found between the pages of a book.
- Career Dress-Up Day: The week culminated in a day where students envisioned their futures! They donned outfits representing their dream careers, turning classrooms and hallways into a showcase of doctors, firefighters, artists, engineers, and everything in between!
Laughter, creativity, and a shared passion for reading filled the week. It was a powerful reminder of the magic books hold – to transport us, inspire us, and connect us all.
GCPS Blueprint for The Future
- Goal 2.B-Opportunity and Access.
- Goal 4.A-Preferred Education Destination.
Puppet Show
Corley's first graders were recently treated to a delightful puppet show presented by the Gwinnett County Public Library! The show brought to life the whimsical stories of Jan Thomas, including "Rhyming Dust Bunnies," "A Birthday for Cow," "My Friends Make Me Happy," and "Here Comes the Big Mean Dust Bunny."
The talented puppeteers captivated the students with their performance, sparking their imaginations and leaving them with smiles all day long. It was a wonderful reminder of the power of storytelling and the joy of books!
GCPS Blueprint for The Future
- Goal 1.B-Staff and student wellbeing.
- Goal 4.A-Preferred Education Destination.
Important Reminders
Play 2 Learn
The Play 2 Learn program focuses on building the capacity of parents and caregivers to be their child's first teacher, as well as providing an opportunity for children to learn and play in a group setting. Caregivers are invited to bring children (ages birth to five) to a 90-minute session each week.
Join the PTA Today!
PTA is coming to Corley, and we need your support! We'd like to encourage all staff and families to join PTA! Please scan the QR code or CLICK HERE to pay the $5.00 membership fee and show your support for PTA @ Corley!
While this is not a requirement, we would love for you to join our Parent-Teacher Association to help build community. You can give your time, talent, and resources to join our collective efforts in promoting quality education, arts, and community involvement to build a healthy environment and safe neighborhood for all of our families.
GCPS Blueprint For The Future
Goal 1.A-Cultural Competence.
Goal 4.B-Post-secondary and Workforce Readiness.
Goal 4.A-Preferred Education Destination.
MyPaymentsPlus
My Payments Plus is a multi-purpose website we use here at Gwinnett County Public Schools. Once you create an account, you can use the site to pay for school lunches and field trips or to review and sign important documents. For help registering for an account, you can watch this quick how to video.
Need help? Call the MPP Parent Support Phone Number: 1-877-237-0946.
Free & Reduced Lunch
Children need healthy meals to learn. Gwinnett County Public Schools offers healthy meals every school day. Breakfast costs $1.50; lunch costs $2.25 for elementary and $2.50 at middle and high schools. Your children may qualify for free meals or for reduced-price meals. The reduced price is $.30 for breakfast and $.40 for lunch. Below are some common questions and answers to help you with the application process. Click HERE for complete the online application.
WHO CAN GET FREE OR REDUCED-PRICE MEALS?
- All children in households receiving benefits from SNAP or TANF are eligible for free.
- Foster children who are under the legal responsibility of a foster care agency or court are eligible for free.
- Children participating in their school’s Head Start program are eligible for free.
- Children who meet the definition of homeless, runaway, or migrant are eligible for free.
- Children may receive free or reduced-price meals if your household’s income is within the limits on the Federal Income Eligibility Chart.
Safety Reminders (Student Arrival)
School Hours
Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- All visitors must check in at the welcome desk and please be prepared to provide some form of identification upon request.
- Students should arrive between 8:15 am - 8:50 am.
- Morning announcements and the tardy bell rings at 8:50 am.
- Dismissal bell rings at 3:15 pm.
- If you are checking your child out early, please do so before 2:30 pm. This leaves our bus lanes open for bus arrivals. Also, please remember that a picture ID is required for all student check-outs. Thank you!
Important Dates
- April 1st-5th: Spring Break
- April 8th: College Spirit Wear Day
- April 8th: Field Day for 2nd and 5th grade
- April 9th: Field Day for K and 3rd grade
- April 10th: Field Day for 1st and 4th grade
- April 11th: Blue Out: Wear Blue for Autism Acceptance Month
- April 19th: All Pro Dad Meeting
- April 22-24th: Language Arts GMAS (3rd-5th)
- April 26th: Title I Planning Meeting @ 9:30am
- April 29-30th: Math GMAS (3rd-5th)
- May 1st: Asian American & Pacific Islander Month
- May 2nd: Science GMAS (5th only)