Brown Elementary Update
December 13 2024
From the Desk of Dr. Cole Harms
Hello Brown Bears!
Can you believe that this is our last newsletter of 2024?! This year has been flying by—and I for one have loved every minute as a Brown Bear.
This past week was the winter bazaar. It was exciting to see the engagement and enthusiasm that our students had for purchasing gifts for loved ones. It was like they didn't even realize they were doing math too! Not only was there some great addition, subtraction and budgeting happening, there was also an opportunity for some SEL work where students needed to really think about what others would like to receive, rather than what they were interested in. It was a wonderful weeklong event! Thank you to the PTO organizers, volunteers and those who donated to the bazaar.
Coming up, we have our ALL SCHOOL PAJAMA DAY on Friday, December 20th. Anyone who would like to come to school in their PJs (staff included!) is welcome to do so.
Happy Holidays and I look forward to seeing you in 2025!
Erica
Check out the photo below of the Main Office Staff ROCKIN' their Brown Spirit Wear!
L. to R: Karen Cushing, Chris Crosby, Becky Lepow, Robin Slattery, Erica Cole Harms
Supporting Learning: How School and Home Can Partner Together to Increase Attendance
We recognize that every family's life is unique and complex. Our goal is to partner with you in supporting your child's educational growth while respecting the choices and challenges that individual families may face.
Why Attendance Matters
Consistent school attendance helps your child:
Stay connected with learning and classmates
Build confidence in their academic skills
Develop important life skills like routine and responsibility
We Understand Life Happens
We know that unexpected situations arise, and families balance multiple responsibilities. Our approach is about support, not judgment. We're here to work with you, not against you.
Helpful Attendance Guidelines
When possible, try to schedule any and all appointments outside school hours
Communicate with the school if extended absences are necessary so you can be informed of the district protocol
Use Pick Up Patrol to keep us informed about your child's attendance
Our Commitment to You
We will provide support for students who miss class upon their return
We view attendance as a collaborative effort between school and family
Compassionate Communication
If your child will be absent, please:
Notify the school as soon as possible
Share any challenges you're experiencing that might impact attendance
In turn, the school will:
At 8+ absences: Main Office will send home a notice regarding absences. Someone from the school (counselor, nurse, administrator) may also reach out to check in with families.
At 10+ absences: Vice-principal will reach out to families.
Together, We Can Support Your Child's Success
Thank you for being an essential partner in your child's educational journey.
Counselor's Corner
Student Shout Outs
Grade 1: Aisha Kabir - Aisha showed empathy in the cafeteria when she included a friend who couldn't find a spot to sit and was feeling upset. Aisha invited her to sit in the empty spot that was at her table!
Grade 2: Amit Pikatz- Amit comes to school ready to learn every day. He is a good listener, and works hard to do his best. Amit is also a very good friend. He always includes others and helps them if he sees they need help. Amit is a wonderful part of our class!
Grade 4: Abigail Lundy - Abigail is not just a great reader, she is always responsible with her library books, and makes a point to help keep the library in excellent shape.
Grade 4: Erik Loja - Erik noticed that there were some pencil markings on the wall outside of the counselor's office and took the time to grab an eraser and clean it up! Thanks, Erik for practicing respect and helping to keep our school clean!
**REMINDERS**
NO SCHOOL on December 23 - January 1 for December Break
Please make sure you have completed all of your yearly forms in PowerSchool.
Please make sure you have filled out PickUp Patrol--any changes to pick ups must be completed by 1:30 pm on the day of the change.
If you are able to send snacks in with your students, please make sure they have one in their backpack every day. We will make sure no student goes hungry!
- Monday December 23: December Break begins. Friday, 12/20 will be the last day of school in 2024!
- Thursday, January 2: First day of school after December break.
Natick Public Schools does not discriminate in employment nor its educational programs, services, and activities based on race, creed, color, age, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, physical and intellectual differences, immigration status, homeless status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Please be aware all electronic communication to and from Natick Public Schools is public record and subject to public disclosure per Massachusetts General Law Chapter 66, Section 10.