Dear Pine River Families,

As we wrap up another incredible school year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the amazing journey we’ve shared. This year, our theme of “Learning is Our Superpower” has truly come to life. Each student discovered and developed their own unique strengths—whether it was courage, creativity, kindness, perseverance, or curiosity—and I couldn’t be prouder of the growth I’ve seen in every child.

But superpowers aren’t just about what comes easy. I’ve been just as inspired by the way students tackled challenges, tried new things, and grew in areas that stretched them. That is where real learning—and true heroism—happens!

As summer begins, I encourage families to keep those skills sharp by reading together, exploring nature, practicing math facts, and writing about summer adventures. Most importantly, make time to just be together. Summer is made for bike rides, bonfires, lemonade stands, and memory-making moments that last a lifetime.

Thank you for sharing your incredible children with us this year. Have a safe, fun-filled summer full of laughter, growth, and sunshine!

With pride and gratitude,

Rachel Card

At the May East China School District Board of Education meeting, Pine River Elementary took center stage in a presentation that captured the spirit of our school year theme: “Learning is Our Superpower!”

Fourth-grade students Kora Robbins, Josie Dennison, Tommy Shubnell, and Connor Kelly confidently stepped up to the mic, representing our school with poise and pride. They shared how this year’s theme has empowered students to recognize their unique strengths, embrace challenges, and grow not just academically, but as kind, curious, and courageous learners. From classroom activities to leadership opportunities, our students gave board members a glimpse into how learning becomes a superpower when students believe in themselves and each other.

Joining the students were fourth grade teachers Amber Alley and Becca Pousha, who spoke passionately about the creative ways staff have woven the superpower theme into daily learning. Whether through integrated lessons, character education, or monthly assemblies, the theme has unified the Pine River community and ignited a deeper love for learning. Principal Rachel Card highlighted the collaborative spirit of Pine River and the importance of cultivating a school culture where every child and adult is seen as a hero in their own learning journey.

We were so grateful for the opportunity to share our story with the board and celebrate what makes our school truly superpowered!

Click below to view the presentation, which is a digital scrapbook highlighting this amazing year!

This summer, our parking lots, sidewalks, and driveways at Pine River will be replaced as part of the ECSD Bond 2020 project. An overview of the site work is shown below. In summer 2026, the inside of the building will be upgraded, and new furniture will be installed.

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Amanda Thoel, our wonderful volunteer photographer, for capturing so many special moments at Pine River Elementary. Her time and talent truly enrich our school community, and we are grateful for her dedication.

We are also excited to share that Amanda is offering Pine River families an exclusive 25% discount on her photography services. If you’re looking to capture family memories or special occasions, this is a great opportunity to support a local talent and enjoy beautiful, professional photos.

Thank you, Amanda, for all you do!

In alignment with Board Policy #5301, we want to inform you of our practice regarding student attendance. Regular school attendance is essential to student success, and we are committed to supporting our students’ consistent presence in class.

When a student reaches 10 absences during the school year, the building principal will send a written notice to the parent/guardian. This letter will encourage regular daily attendance and provide important information about the truancy process. Additionally, a second notice will be sent if a student reaches 15 absences.

We appreciate your partnership in ensuring that your child is present and engaged in their learning every day.

For the upcoming school year, we are making a shift from hosting our traditional open house before school begins to holding it during the second week of school. Our goal is to provide a more meaningful experience for families—more like a curriculum night—where teachers can share important information about the year ahead after they have had a chance to get to know your child. Instead of just dropping off supplies and quickly touring the classroom, this new format allows for more intentional conversations about classroom routines, academic expectations, and ways to support your child’s learning. We are excited for this opportunity to build stronger connections between home and school right from the start!

President- Chelsea Lessick

Vice President- Megan Johnson

Treasurer- Caitlin Middel

Secretary- Sheri Gostiaux Mitchell

Members at Large- Katy Ann Emerich & Holly Tatman

Using a secure Login ID and password, you can log into Skyward Family Access and view your students’ data, such as progress reports, attendance records, report cards, transcripts, lunch information and more. Your one login to Family Access allows you to view data on all your enrolled students in the district, even if there are multiple school sites.

How to log into to Skyward Family Access:

1. Go to the district home web page at www.ecsd.us.
2. Click on the Parents link, then Family Access link.
3. Enter your Login ID and Password on the Skyward Family Access login screen.

Pine River Pioneers are...

Kind,

Courteous,

Respectful,

Responsible,

and always Safe!

All of our students strive to be motivated learners, as well as model citizens. Each month we will honor students from each class who exemplify the following qualities:

Academic

• Student prepares for classroom activities.
  
• Student approaches learning with enthusiasm.
  
• Student has made steady progress in the classroom.
  
• Student has been working to his/her potential.
  
• Student completes all assignments and homework.
  
• Student has a good work ethic and is diligent.

Leadership/ Citizenship/ Character

• Student demonstrates respect of self and others.
  
• Student assists others in need.
  
• Student shows acts of kindness.
  
• Student demonstrates a positive attitude.
  
• Student displays good conduct.
  
• Student is a positive role model by example.
  
• Student participates and puts forth full effort in all areas.
  
• Student follows school rules.

Young Fives/Kindergarten

Mrs. Guzowski's Class: Everett Teets

Mrs. Malburg's Class: Audrey Devroy and Collin Butler

Ms. McCloskey's Class: Morgan Westrick and Emma Mateoca

Mrs. Schneider's Class: Isla Wellman and Steve El Haddad

First Grade

Mrs. Bean's Class: Bear Hill and Hollyn Matthys

Mrs. Jensen's Class: Willow Burton and Harleen Shea

Mrs. Trudeau's Class: Bryson Diem and Alexander Watt

Second Grade

Mrs. Gorski's Class: Eli Brooks and Jayden McLeod

Mrs. Huston's Class: Owen Burmistrzak and Connor Spanski

Ms. Minor's Class: Michael Rosenick and Joni Fryer

Third Grade

Mrs. Sloat's Class: Finley Baciorowski and Korbin Eifert

Mrs. Wahl's Class: Elliott Middel and Logan Potthoff

Mrs. West's Class: Mila Emerich and Kadence Chitwood

Fourth Grade

Mrs. Alley's Class: Ariana Snay and Raelynn Lumley

Mrs. Pousha's Class: Josie Dennison and Kylie Norris

Mrs. Ursitti's Class: AnnaLee Sitarski and Jack Faucher

C.I. Class

Mrs. Kierszykowski's Class: Erin Distelrath and Scarlett Goodale

Pioneers of the Month will be honored at our STARS assembly on Friday, May 30th, at 9:30 a.m. in the gym. Parents of those students being recognized are welcome to attend. Please check in at the office first.

Parents of our Pioneers of the Month may stop in and pick up a yard sign to display at home during the next month. Just buzz the office at the front doors when you arrive, and we will provide you with a sign. Near the end of the month, please return the sign so we can get it ready for a new honoree.

Mission: The mission of the Pine River school community is to work collaboratively, providing an enriched curriculum that allows for intellectual, social, emotional, physical, and creative growth in a positive and safe environment, empowering all children to become productive lifelong learners.

Vision: Pine River Elementary is dedicated to the belief that all students can learn and achieve through the combined efforts of the staff, parents, students, and community.