
Gables Elementary Weekly Newsletter
April 16, 2025
SAVE THE DATES
April
- 4/17 Early Dismissal (3pm)
- 4/18-25 NO SCHOOL Spring Break
- 4/28 FLOWER DELIVERY PICK UP 3:00pm-6:00pm
- 4/29 Ohio State Testing Science (5th grade only)
- 4/30 Ohio State Testing Science (5th grade only)
May
- 5/2 Gables Art Show (Volunteers Needed)
- 5/6 Gables Spring Concert (at Centennial)
- 5/7 NO SCHOOL Professional Development
- 5/13 PTA Zoom Meeting
- 5/16 Book Nook (Volunteers Needed)
- 5/23 Gables Talent Show
- 5/26 NO SCHOOL Memorial Day
- 5/27 Field Day (Volunteers Needed)
- 5/28 5th Grade Graduation
- 5/29 Kindergarten Graduation
- 5/29 LAST DAY OF SCHOOL FOR ALL STUDENTS!
Below, you’ll find a list of events and the types of help we need. Even if you only have one hour, your time makes a big difference! We welcome everyone and would love to see new families join in and be part of Gables events.
If you have questions or would like to volunteer, please email Kate Green at kgreen2@columbus.k12.oh.us
Monday April 28th: Flower Delivery
We need helping hands for our flower delivery day!
We’ll be unloading flowers from the truck, sorting them by family orders, and handing them out to parents at pickup. We’re still waiting to hear the exact delivery time, but we’ll need volunteers between 3:30 and 6:00 PM. Any time you can give is a big help!
Friday May 2: Gables Art Show
We need volunteers to help hang up student artwork in the days before the show. During the event, we’ll also need help with the bake sale: both by donating treats and helping to sell them. Keep an eye out for a sign-up sheet from the PTA coming soon!
Friday May 16: Book Nook
We need volunteers to help students choose books and collect payment (just 50 cents per book). Shifts are from 9:30–11:30 AM and 12:30–3:00 PM. This will be our last Book Nook of the school year!
Tuesday May 27th: Field Day
Field Day is a fun outdoor event where students rotate through different activities like bounce houses, water games, and obstacle courses. We need volunteers to help run each station. You can sign up for time slots between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Come join the fun!
STAFF CORNER
NOTES FROM THE OFFICE
As warmer weather arrives and students spend more time outdoors, we often find ourselves needing extra sets of clothes due to wet or muddy conditions. I encourage parents, especially those with younger children, to pack an extra set of labeled clothing in their child's backpack. Additionally, we strive to keep spare clothing available at Gables for unexpected accidents. Currently, our clothing supply needs refreshing, particularly with smaller sizes for both boys and girls. We are in need of extra-small and small pants, shorts, and shirts.
Notes from the Family Ambassador
Spring Break is also a great opportunity to recharge! Consider balancing light academic review with fun and relaxation while your families are on break; whether it's enjoying time outdoors, reading together, or simply unwinding as a family. A refreshed mind and body will help students return ready to do their best as we head into the end of the year. Check out our Spring Break Earth Day boards further down in the Smore for activities and idea's that are age appropriate with your students.
We love to learn.
Kate Green
Family Ambassador
School Counselor Update
Hello Spring!
Spring is here and we hope it stays!
Did you know that playing outdoors has endless benefits including social and cognitive benefits?
Playing outside encourages social skill development like sharing, taking turns, and resolving conflict.
Playing outside increases curiosity about the natural world.
Outdoor play offers valuable learning opportunities such as learning about nature and science.
Outside play can boost a child’s self-esteem and confidence.
Take the time to encourage your child to play outside and join them!!
Happy Spring Break!
Erin Lacey
School Counselor
School Nurse Update
It's a great time to think about keeping our kids happy and healthy while they enjoy some well-deserved fun during Spring Break. Warmer weather means more time outdoors, so be sure your child wears sunscreen, stays hydrated, and dresses appropriately for changing temperatures. Spring also brings seasonal allergies. If your child has known sensitivities, talk to your doctor about preventative medications and make sure the school has any necessary treatments on file. Don’t forget to keep up with handwashing, especially as colds and stomach bugs can still be common this time of year. We hope everyone enjoys a fun, restful break and returns refreshed and ready to finish the school year strong!
PTA NEWS
FUTURE PTA BOARD MEMBERS NEEDED
Hey, amazing parents! Are you ready to help make our school events even more awesome? Join the PTA Board and be a part of the fun! Whether you're a pro at organizing or just love brainstorming creative ideas, we need YOU to help plan! From the upcoming school field day to fun family nights for next year we need fresh faces and ideas. It’s a great chance to meet new friends, support our kids, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Plus, you’ll be the first to hear about all the exciting happenings at school! Let’s work together to create unforgettable experiences for our kids! Interested in getting more involved or learning more? Click below to email for more information!
COLUMBUS CITY SCHOOL NEWS & EVENTS
SPRING BREAK CHOICE BOARDS
Happy Women's History Month!
Shark Lady: The True Story of How Eugenie Clark Became the Ocean’s Most Fearless Scientist
From a young age, Eugenie Clark loved sharks and wanted to learn everything about them — and disagreed with those who considered sharks to be mindless monsters. In this beautifully illustrated story, readers learn how Eugenie dedicated her life to the study of sharks.
Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré
When Pura Belpré came to America from Puerto Rico in 1921, she found work as a bilingual assistant at the New York Public Library. This book tells the story of Pura, a storyteller and puppeteer who championed bilingual literature.
Who Says Women Can’t Be Doctors? The Story of Elizabeth Blackwell
When Elizabeth Blackwell was a child, women weren’t allowed to be doctors. In this book, children learn that Elizabeth “didn’t believe in couldn’t or shouldn’t” and overcame obstacles to become the first woman doctor.
The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin
In rhyming prose, this book tells the story of Temple Grandin, who was diagnosed with autism at a young age. Throughout the story, children will see how Temple used her unique mind and visual thinking skills to become an amazing scientist
Celia Cruz, Queen of Salsa
This book tells the story of Cuban salsa singer Celia Cruz — from her childhood to her rise to fame as the Queen of Salsa
Mae Among the Stars
“If you dream it, believe in it, and work hard for it, anything is possible.” This book tells how Mae Jemison, the first African American woman in space, followed her dreams to become an astronaut.
I Am Malala: How One Girl Stood Up for Education and Changed the World
Malala Yousafzai was only ten years old when the Taliban took control of her region. They said music was a crime. They said women weren't allowed to go to the market. They said girls couldn't go to school. Malala was taught to stand up for what she believes. So she fought for her right to be educated.
Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Drawing on intimate access to Ginsburg's family members, close friends, colleagues, and clerks, as well as an interview with the Justice herself, this book includes original narratives, annotated dissents, rare archival photos and documents, and illustrations. The book tells a never-before-told story of an unusual and transformative woman who transcended divides and changed the world forever.
Audacity
Audacity is inspired by the real-life story of Clara Lemlich, a spirited young woman who emigrated from Russia to New York at the turn of the twentieth century and fought tenaciously for equal rights. Clara refused to accept substandard working conditions in factories and devoted herself to the labor fight, speaking up for those who suffer in silence.
Columbus City Schools Calendar for NEXT YEAR
CCS has released the academic calendar for next school year 2025-2026. If you are a person who likes to look ahead this is great information to have on the calendar.
In partnership with the Grange Insurance Audubon Center, Seeds of Caring is hosting an Earth Day Celebration! CCS students (ages 2-12), along with their caregivers are invited to engage in environmental service projects and activities that include: a book swap (families are encouraged to bring up to 3 gently used books per child to swap for different books), composting and recycling games, upcycled art, wildlife encounters, tree planting (over 300 trees will be available to plant), and so much more.
Saturday, April 19 · 10am - 12pm
Grange Insurance Audubon Center (Located within the Scioto Audubon Metro Park)
505 West Whittier Street Columbus, OH 43215
Please see the link below for more information, and to register for this FREE event.
CCS Staff, Family, and Student Resources and Information - Immigration Concerns
Columbus City Schools (CCS) remains fully committed to providing safe learning environments for students regardless of immigration status, race, sex, sexual orientation, religion, color, national origin, age, gender identity or expression, ancestry, familial status, military status, disability, or genetic information. The safety of our students and staff will always be a key priority and responsibility of the District.
Please See the Smore link below for up to date information from Dr. Chapman regarding district policy and practices related to student safety and wellbeing.
Family Resources from The Education Service Center of Central Ohio
The Educational Service Center of Central Ohio (ESC) has compiled a list of community resources in Central Ohio to help support undocumented students and families. Please feel free to share this information with staff in your school, and provide appropriate resources to families in need.
The Educational Service Center of Central Ohio (ESC) provides school districts and schools with professional development, technology, human resource, and administrative supports, and direct student services that help improve student learning, enhance the quality of instruction, expand equitable access to resources, and maximize operating and fiscal efficiencies.
Please see the list below for recourses.
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS & RESOURCES
Summer Opportunities and Engagement Digital Guide Book
CCS want to help you find the right summer opportunities for your student. Check out this excellent resource for many different summer programs, camps, internships, volunteer hours and employment opportunities for grades K-12.
SUMMER EBT
What is Summer EBT?
The Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer Program for Children (Summer EBT or SUN Bucks) began in 2024 and continues for 2025. Summer EBT/SUN Bucks provides grocery benefits to low-income families with school-aged children when schools are closed for the summer. Summer EBT benefits will either be loaded to a household’s Ohio Direction Card, or a benefit card will be sent in the mail to each eligible child.
Families can use the money to buy food during the summer at grocery stores, farmers markets, and other authorized retailers. Families will receive a one-time benefit of $120 for each eligible child and participation will not affect children or families’ immigration status.
How do I know if my child is eligible to receive Summer EBT/Sun Bucks and how do I apply?
Many families will get Summer EBT/SUN Bucks automatically if they are getting other benefits, but some families may need to apply for the program. If your household already participates in SNAP, OWF, or if income eligible and receiving Medicaid benefits, your child will automatically be enrolled to receive summer benefits. You do not need to fill out an application or take any further action.
Similarly, households who have been approved for free/reduced meal benefits at their school will be submitted to automatically receive the summer benefit with no further action.
If you are not automatically enrolled, but you believe that your child might be eligible, you should submit a school meal application to your school foodservice department as soon as possible. If your child attends a Community Eligibility Provision School (a school receiving universal free meals, without the collection of income applications), there will be an online application available at sebt.ohio.gov for households to apply for Summer EBT/SUN Bucks directly. When applying, you will be asked to provide your child’s name, school, date of birth, address, and some additional details. You will also be asked to report your household’s income. You will not need to provide any other documents or information including social security number, proof of citizenship, or pay stubs to apply.
Columbus on the Cheap
Here is the link for the calendar of events happening around Columbus for the entire month of March. There are over 60+ events to choose from for just this coming weekend!
https://www.columbusonthecheap.com/events/calendar/
Have fun in Columbus this weekend with free and cheap events! From Bows to Birds at the Audobon Center to Indoor playgrounds, to Farmers Markets, find something fun for the whole family.
Need Help? Check out our Community Partners.
Here is a list of Columbus Community Partners providing assistance.
Asian American Community Center - is a non-profit community-based organization serving needs of all Asian Pacific Islanders in Central Ohio. AACS has led efforts to empower and develop the local Asian community through its expansive and proactive programs and services.
LSS 211 offers services from homeless shelters to senior living. Call 211.
City of Columbus CARES Act offers assistance with utilities.
Cap4Kids provides resources for families in the areas of meals, housing, utilities, mental health and lots more.
Charitable Pharmacy of Central Ohio offers pharmacy services and medicines, counseling on proper medication usage, health screenings, wellness education, and social program assistance for those who cannot afford them. (614) 227-0301
Community Refugee and Immigration Service (CRIS) is an independent non-profit agency serving refugees, asylees, and immigrants in central Ohio. They help refugees and immigrants achieve successful integration into the central Ohio community.
Clintonville Resource Center serving all of Central Ohio by providing assistance through the food pantry, child and youth programs, senior services and kinship care programs.
Ethiopian Tewahado Social Services (ETSS) assists immigrant and refugee families and low-income individuals in Central Ohio through education, training, supportive services, and self-development opportunities.
Franklin County Childrens Services Guide provides information on local emergency or non-emergency assistance to families.
Mid Ohio Food Bank provides food locations by zip code.
MY Project USA is a non-profit organization. It is the first and the only national initiative that is addressing the challenges facing the American Youth, especially in the immigrant and refugee communities from various Muslim countries.
OhioKAN ensures every kinship and adoptive family who wants support navigating the resources available to them can get it.
Project Connect provides help to families living in shelters, car, motel, campground and doubled-up families.
Teaching Tolerance provides guidance for educators on how to handle students that are going through the stress/fear of deportation.
GENERAL SCHOOL INFORMATION
About Gables Elementary
If you are calling the school office about your student, and your call is not answered, please leave a message on the Gables Office voicemail and your call will be returned promptly.
Attendance Email:
If your child will be absent, please email below. If you are just running late to school, please bring your child into the school, you do not need to call ahead.
attendance.gables@columbus.k12.oh.us
Attendance Phone: 1-380-997-6025
PTA Email: gablesgators@gmail.com
Family Ambassador: Kgreen2@columbus.k12.oh.us
FACTline Email: factline@columbus.k12.oh.us
FACTline Phone: 614-221-FACT (614-221-3228)
Email: gableses@columbus.k12.oh.us
Website: ccsoh.us/GablesES
Location: 1680 Becket Avenue, Columbus, OH, USA
Phone: 614-365-5499
Learn the Gator Way!
Be Responsible!
Be Respectful!
Be Safe!
Be Kind!
That's the Gator Way!
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Parent Portal
Is Your Parent Portal Account Activated? Stay engaged in your child's education by setting up and signing into the Columbus City Schools Parent Portal. Through the Parent Portal, you'll be able to securely access valuable information on your student(s):
- Teacher Contact
- Grades and Course Schedules
- Daily Attendance
- Missed Assignments
- Complete your Annual Update