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Village Explorer Weekly Newsletter

Week of January 15th

Village ExplorerWeekly NewsletterWeek of January 15th

Notes from Principal Peter Kuhns

Village Explorer Student and Families,


It was another great week for our students at Village! Please read the newsletter closely as it has important updates and information for the week ahead.


Peter Kuhns


Principal

No School on 11/15 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Arrival and Dismissal

If you are using a car to drop off your children, please make sure you are using the drop off lanes and not letting your children cross the street without using a designated crosswalk. This is to make sure all of our students are safe during arrival and dismissal.

Report Cards

Our first semester ends on January 25th. Report cards will be sent home the week of January 29th.

Crocs At School

With the surging popularity in Crocs, our PE and Recess staff have noticed a significant increase in students slipping and tripping when playing certain activities such as basketball and kickball. We encourage your child to wear shoes that they feel comfortable in (including Crocs) at school. However, if your child wishes to participate in these activities, please have them come to school with an extra pair of sneakers they can change into so that they can safely participate.

PTO Corner!

Get to know PTO! We are parents, teachers, grandparents, caregivers, staff, and community members who are invested in making VES an enriching and positive environment for our children. The PTO is a non-profit organization and relies on donations and volunteers to support our school. Your $40 membership goes a long way to provide school supplies, field trips & experiences, campus improvements, monthly staff hospitality, movie nights, Veterans Day events, fundraising activities, and much more. Every dollar you contribute goes directly to your student, teachers/staff, and our school. Join to support, Join the PTO Today!


www.villagepto.org

Safe Harbor Coronado Update

Military Corner from Mindy Hayes

Hi Military Families -


Welcome to 2024! I hope you enjoyed your Winter Break and are ready to take the second half of the school year by storm.

o Free Breakfast and Lunch Meals for ALL Enrolled Students for the 2023-2024 School Year – check with your school site for implementation details.

  • HAPPENING NOW! Military Teen Club, Wednesdays, 1:45-2:45 pm @ CMS Granzer Hall – Open to all 6th-8th grade students (military or civilian).

o School Resumes: January 8


SCHOLARSHIP SEASON

Now is the time for graduating high school seniors to apply for scholarships! To help with your search, attached is a PDF titled “List of Military Scholarships” packed with opportunities. Best of luck!

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR MILITARY CHILDREN

Application Deadline: Wednesday, February 14

Applications are now open for the Scholarships for Military Children Program for academic year 2024-2025. The program, entering its 24th year, recognizes the contributions of military families to the readiness of the fighting force and celebrates the commissary’s role in enhancing military quality of life. It’s administered by Fisher House Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping service members, veterans and their families. For scholarship year 2024-25, Fisher House Foundation will award 500 scholarship grants of $2,000 each. There will be at least one recipient selected at every commissary location where qualified applications are received. More applicants may be selected from those commissaries with more significant numbers of applicants.

Apply Now: https://www.fisherhouse.org/programs/scholarship-programs/scholarships-for-military-children/

ALEXANDER KREIGLOWA NAVY & MARINE CORPS DEPENDENTS EDUCATION FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP

Application Deadline: Tuesday, April 30

The Navy League of the United States San Diego Council administers the Alexander Kreiglowa Navy and Marine Corps Dependents Education Foundation Scholarship. The scholarship is open to all California high seniors who are the children of active duty, retired or deceased members of the United States Navy or Marine Corps and provides up to $15,000 per year toward the cost of tuition, books and academic fees. It is renewable for a total of 4 years subject to a minimum GPA and ongoing financial need. More information about the scholarship and the application can be found online at www.navyleague-sd.com/scholarship-program.

SILVER STRAND YOUTH CENTER’S TEEN PROGRAM

Teen Program: Monday-Friday, 2-6 pm

Teen Nights 1st & 3rd Fridays: January 5 and 19, 6-8 pm

**SPECIAL TEEN OPEN REC DAY: Saturday, January 27, 10 am-2 pm

All teens, 12*-18 years (*12 & in 7th grade), are invited to join us for fun, food, fieldtrips, and friendship! Teens are also welcome to bring a friend; military or military sponsored.

Questions: 619-435-5056

MOVIE NIGHT: THE UPSTANDERS

Thursday, January 18, 6-7:30 pm, FREE

Coronado High School Theater, 650 D Avenue

Join Safe Harbor Coronado for a screening of “The Upstanders,” a documentary about the power of connection to end bullying, followed by a panel discussion. Recommended for middle and high school students and parents. Open to the community.

Register: https://safeharborcoronado.org/upcoming-workshops

2024 TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE NASA WEBINAR

Tuesday, January 23, 9-10 am

Monday, April 8, a total solar eclipse will cross North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. Join NASA, on Tuesday, January 23, for an informational webinar and update on the plan for the April Eclipse. In this webinar, you will learn about:

· The science behind solar eclipses

· Connections to NASA’s study of the Sun

· How to view eclipses safely

· NASA’s latest plan for public and student egagement

Register: https://nvite.jsc.nasa.gov/RSVP/?id=mebdj

TRANSITION TO TK / KINDER BRIEFS FOR THE 2024-2025 SCHOOL YEAR

Tuesday, January 30, 3-4 pm @ NASNI Child Development Center

Wednesday, January 31, 3-4 pm @ Crown Child Development Center

Thursday, February 1, 3-4 pm @ NAB Child Development Center

Now is a great time to think about your child beginning school in the fall – SY 2024-2025! What school will your child attend? When does school start? What is the age to enroll in Kinder or TK? What is TK? Is your child ready? Meet with the NBC School Liaison to hear about...

* Eligibility * Readiness * Registration Requirements * Resources * Transitional Kindergarten * and more!

Questions: 619-991-2509 or nbcslo@us.navy.mil

EXCEPTIONAL FAMILY MEMBER PROGRAM (EFMP)

The Metro San Diego EFMP team produces a great, monthly newsletter full of information, webinars, resources, and contact numbers. Check out the January 2024 edition attached. For questions about enrollment, call the Regional MTF Coordinators Office at 619-532-8586.
Info: http://sandiego.navylifesw.com/fleet-family/support-center/ffsc-services

2024 U.S. SENATE YOUTH PROGRAM REPRESENTATIVES ANNOUNCED

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced two outstanding high school students to represent California in the 62nd annual United States Senate Youth Program. Aaron Combs of San Diego, a senior at Canyon Crest Academy in the San Dieguito Union High School District, and Emi Sakamoto of Culver City, a senior at Culver City High School in the Culver City Unified School District, were selected as California’s delegates in this highly competitive program for their exceptional leadership skills, noteworthy commitments to their schools and communities, and academic and extracurricular achievements. The two delegates will receive a $10,000 scholarship for undergraduate studies and an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C. to participate in Washington Week this spring. To learn more about the students and the program, please read the December 5, 2023, CDE news release.

AROUND-THE-CLOCK HELP WITH TUTOR.COM

Tutor.com is a program that provides on-demand, online tutoring and homework help at no cost to eligible service members, civilian personnel, and their dependents. With live, expert tutors available 24/7, military-connected students can receive academic help at their moment of need—anywhere they have an internet connection.

· Work with a tutor from any internet-connected device, anywhere in the world

· Connect to an expert tutor available on demand 24 hours a day, 7 days a week*

· Get online tutoring help three ways: request a tutor’s help right now, schedule a future tutoring session, or upload a document for offline review and get comments back within 24 hours

· Use the free Tutor.com app for IOS and Android mobile devices—take a picture of a homework problem and upload it for the tutor to see

Get Started Today: https://tutor.com/military

UPDATES TO THE 2024-2025 FAFSA EXPERIENCE

Big changes to the 2024-2025 FAFSA form are being made to create a better experience for students and families. Changes include:

· expanded eligibility for federal student aid

· a more streamlined application process, and

· a better user experience for the FAFSA form.

US Department of Education offer resources to help you understand the changes, and additional resources and updated information continue to be pushed out. Check out helpful webinar video recordings at https://www.youtube.com/@FSAOutreach or visit https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa

CALSOAP COLLEGE ACCESS PROGRAMS 2023-2024

CALSOAP provides information about postsecondary education and financial aid to elementary through high school students while raising their academic achievement levels. Programs include: Cash for College 1:1 Workshops, College Bound Webinars, 1:1 College Advising, and College Make It Happen middle school webinars. For full details visit https://calsoapsandiego.org.

7TH ANNUAL BLACK COLLEGE EXPO
Thursday, February 8, 10:30 am-2:30 pm

Students of all racial and ethnic backgrounds are encouraged to attend the expo, hosted by the San Diego County Office of Education in partnership with the National College Resources Foundation. High school students and parent have the opportunity to connect with historically black colleges and universities with potential for on-the-spot college scholarships and acceptances awarded to qualifying students at the expo. Scholarships are available. Interested students must submit an essay of 500 words or less about “Why is a college education important to me.”

Free Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sdcoe-presents-7th-annual-san-diego-black-college-expo-tickets-719069565427

OPERATION BIGS

Big Brothers and Big Sisters of San Diego County is now enrolling youth in Operation Bigs; a free program providing mentoring and support to students of military families. Youth must be a least 7 years old, a military dependent, and able to participate 2-4 times a month for at least one calendar year.
Info: https://sdbigs.org/operationbigs/ Questions/Enroll: Ania Boyd, 619-504-5277

YOUR COMMAND CAN BE A PARTNER IN EDUCATION

The Partnership in Education (PIE) Program is designed to encourage support of the local schools through Navy volunteer efforts. PIEs offer opportunities for military and civilian members attached to commands to give their time as volunteers at local schools. The program contributes military resources and services to help nurture the intellectual, emotional, social, and physical growth of children and youth. In addition, this program forges a partnership between commands and the local schools and increases awareness of the US military’s mission. Here are a few ways your command can support a PIE. Can you think of others?

• Be a guest speaker or reader.

• Plan a field trip to the ship.

• Establish a pen pal or video project.

• Provide positive, healthy engagement during lunch recess by playing outdoor games with students.

• Share an expertise or hobby with students.

• Assist with school self-help projects on campus.

Contact the School Liaison Program at 619-991-2509 or nbcslo@us.navy.mil to start your PIE today!
Individual active duty volunteers are also needed for Operation Pals, a weekly after school program, plus special event assistance. Contact the Navy School Liaison at nbcslo@us.navy.mil to be added to the Volunteer Distribution List.

SCHOOL-BASED MILITARY FAMILY LIFE COUNSELORS

Your school-based MFLCs are here and ready to listen and provide confidential feedback to support military students and parents through short-term, situational, problem-solving counseling sessions. MFLCs are also available to provide school-based support to school staff. Start your conversation today!

Chula Vista Elementary School District:

· Arroyo Charter, David Perlstein – 619-517-2959

· Olympic View, David Perlstein – 619-517-2959

· Salt Creek, Donna Castelli – 619-241-1999

Coronado Unified School District: (as of Aug 22)

· Silver Strand, Grace Medrano – 619-592-0093

· Village, Kimberly La Sala – 619-816-0320

· Coronado Middle, Michele Dozier – 619-592-0821

· Coronado High – 858-275-9428


FREE NATIONAL PARKS PASS FOR MILITARY

Current US military members and their dependents get free entrance to more than 2,000 Federal recreation sites with the Interagency Military-Annual Pass. Plus, check out the free Interagency Military-Lifetime Pass for Gold Star families and Veterans.

Information: https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm

FREE TRANSIT FOR YOUTH – EXTENDED THRU JUNE 2024

Anyone aged 18 and under can ride transit for free as part of the SANDAG Youth Opportunity Pass pilot program. Get your Youth PRONTO app account or card* today to get unlimited rides on the bus, Trolley, COASTER, and SPRINTER through June 30, 2024.

Info: https://youthopportunitypass.sandag.org/

*NOTE: The Navy School Liaison has a limited number of Youth PRONTO cards on hand. Please call 619-991-2509 to arrange distribution.

EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE FROM NAVY MARINE CORPS RELIEF SOCIETY

Natural disasters come quickly and unexpectedly. If your home is affected by a hurricane, tornado, flood, fire, or other disaster, The Navy Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) can help. Whether the base is evacuated or you need to evacuate your home and family please reach out.

Information/Assistance: northisland@nmcrs.org or 619-545-4477/After-hours emergency 877-272-7337

FREE SPECIAL EDUCATION RESOURCE FOR MILITARY FAMILIES

Navy Child & Youth Programs is happy to bring military families a FREE resource to support you in your Special Education journey…access to Special Ed Connection. Special Ed Connection provides easy to use resources and tools to help you gain a clear understanding of special education requirements and services and how they work. From legal rights to practical application and from student referrals to IEPs, this resource explains specific procedures and provides real-world application strategies to help you learn the complexities surrounding special education supports and services.

For access, email: nbcslo@us.navy.mil

SPECIAL EDUCATION ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION

The South County SELPA (Special Education Local Plan Area), Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) team offers free, collaborative efforts available to all families in resolving Special Education disagreements. To learn more about ADR resources, facilitated IEP meetings and mediation, read a newsletter with upcoming event information, or to submit a request for support, visit: www.sdcoe.net/scselpa-adr.

PARENT EDUCATION VIRTUAL WORKSHOPS

Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC) Parent Programs is offering a new series of Parent Education Virtual Workshops for military-connected parents and professionals who work in support of military-connected children.

- Perfectionism and Your Military Child – January 9, 9 am

- How to Stay Connected When a Service Member is Away – January 10, 9 am

- Identifying How Your Military Child Learns – January 16, 9 am

- Helping Your Unorganized Child Get Organized – January 17, 9 am

- Time Management for Young Children – January 23, 9 am

Register: https://www.militarychild.org/webinars

Not available to attend the live webinar? Register at the links above to receive the recording. Plus visit the website to view recordings of previous webinars.

TASK WORKSHOPS

TASK helps families navigate special education, disability services and assistive technology. They provide families with emotional support, information, and direction. TASK is the Parent Training and Information Center (PTI) for San Diego County. They offer multiple workshops and support groups to help you navigate the challenges you face. Workshops are available in English or Spanish and are offered free of charge.

  • Introduction to Assistive Technology Webinar – January 9, 10 am
  • Introduccion a la Tecnologia de Asistencia Webinar – January 11, 10 am
  • Navigating IEPs Webinar (English & Spanish) – January 18, 10:30 am
  • Aplilcaciones de Habilidades Sociales y de Vida Webinar – January 23, 10 am
  • Navigating Special Education Webinar – January 25, 6 pm
  • Social and Life Skills Apps Webinar – January 26, 10 am

Register & More Events: https://taskca.org/calendar/?month=jan&yr=2024

ANCHORED4LIFE E-LEARNING SERIES

Anchored4Life invites families and caregivers to view and utilize a series of videos full of fun and engaging activities to introduce, practice, and strengthen resiliency life skill development with youth. From “Choices & Consequences” or “Communication” to “Goal Setting,” “Positive Attitude” or “Stress Management” and more, there are dozens of great videos to tap into: http://anchored4life.com/e-learning-series/

HOMESCHOOLING IN CALIFORNIA

Considering the idea of homeschooling your student(s) but have questions? The California Department of Education is a great place to start: https://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/ps/homeschool.asp. You can also find answers with the Homeschooling Legal Defense Association. HSLDA is a non-profit advocacy organization available to help you make sense of the laws and understand your legal homeschooling rights: https://hslda.org/.

YOU CAN HOMESCHOOL THROUGH HIGH SCHOOL: RECORDED WORKSHOP

Watch a very informative 45-minute recorded workshop hosted by the Homeschooling Legal Defense Association. They cover course credits, career counseling, transcripts, diplomas and more!

Video: https://hslda.org/post/you-can-homeschool-through-high-school?utm_source=facebook.com&utm_medium=ads&utm_campaign=Outreach&utm_content=You+Can+Homeschool+Through+High+School+Webinar

SPOUSE LICENSURE & BUSINESS COST REIMBURSEMENT DUE TO PCS

The FY20 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) authorized the Navy to reimburse members up to $1,000 for State licensure and certification costs of a spouse of a Service member arising from relocation to another licensing jurisdiction due to a permanent change of station (PCS). NDAA FY23 expanded authorization to include business costs and extended the deadline to December 31, 2029.
Full Details: MPM 1754-040

SAN DIEGO ZOO AND SAN DIEGO ZOO SAFARI PARK FREE ADMISSION FOR ACTIVE DUTY ALL YEAR

Active duty U.S. Armed Forces personnel receive free admission (all year long) and all the benefits of the 1-Day Pass to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park upon presenting a Common Access Card (CAC) or Uniformed Services ID Card at the front gates. Complimentary admission is reserved exclusively for active duty service members upon presenting valid ID. Military spouses and dependents 3 years and older are encouraged to purchase discounted tickets through the base MWR Ticket Office or may receive a 10% discount off the 1-Day Pass at a park ticket window.

Info: https://sandiegozoowildlifealliance.org/

SEAWORLD FREE ADMISSION FOR ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY AND FAMILIES CONTINUES

For your service and sacrifice, SeaWorld thanks and salutes you. SeaWorld holds the men and women of our armed forces and their families in the highest regard, and are honored to host you at their parks as their guests. Through the Waves of Honor program, military personnel and up to three direct dependents may enjoy one complimentary admission to SeaWorld® San Diego. Offer is available online and for visitation thru Dec. 31, 2024.

Register: https://seaworld.com/san-diego/tickets/military-discount-active/

FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN WITH MWR’S COMMUNITY RECREATION

MWR’s Community Recreation team is planning a full calendar of family-friendly events. Up next: 4-Week Chess Class, Trip to Anaheim Ducks Hockey Game, Monster Jam, Disney on Ice: Frozen and Encanto, Valentine’s Photoshoot Minis, Oil Change Class, Valentine’s Day Doormats, Floral Legos and Mimosas, and SO much more. Check them out (and register) at https://coronado.navylifesw.com/programs/b4100479-fe24-41c9-8ed0-c5c71ebaf790. Follow MWR Community Recreation on Facebook and Instagram for the most up-to-date info: @NavyLifeNBC and @SanDiegoNavyCommunityRecreation

Info: 619-437-3028

SPOTLIGHT EVENT

Chess Class

NAB Community Recreation Center

Every Friday, January 5, 12, 19, and 26, 6 pm; $20

Want to become a chess master? Take our four-week long class every Friday to learn all the ins and outs of chess. Class is open to all ages! All participants who attend at least two classes receive their own chess board.

Register: https://runsignup.com/Race/CA/Coronado/4WeekChessClass

CALIFORNIA STATE LIBRARY PARKS PASS

Californians can now check out a FREE vehicle day-use pass at your local public library for entry to over 200 participating state parks. The pass is valid for entry of one passenger vehicle with the capacity of nine people or less or one highway licensed motorcycle. For full details and to view an interactive map with CA’s public libraries and nearby participating state parks, visit https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=30806.

DOD MWR DIGITAL LIBRARY: OPEN 24/7

Free resources for children, teens and adults. DoD MWR Libraries offers a huge selection of learning resources and content for all ages and interests, including:

  • E-books and audiobooks
  • Movies and music
  • Newspapers and magazines
  • Academic support (prep tests and online tutoring)
  • Professional development
  • Reference and research
  • DIY activities and projects

Set up your profile today: https://dodmwrlibraries.org/

WEEKLY ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT

There are numerous organizations who provide valuable assistance and resources to military families. Each week, I will highlight one such organization.

This week’s organization: USO San Diego, https://sandiego.uso.org/, 619-235-6503
USO San Diego strengthens America's military by keeping them connected to family, home, and country throughout their time in service. In San Diego, USO has four locations. One of which is located in the historic NTC training grounds. This location serves as a home away from home for our local Active Duty and their families. USO is here to support. Check out their website and Facebook page to see the great programming they offer such as, MilSpouse Connect, MilKids Club, Teen Talk, Mobile Farmers Market, Wednesday Night Dinner, and more. Visit https://www.facebook.com/usosandiego


Let me know if I can be of assistance with any school-related questions or Navy resource inquires.

Have a nice weekend!


Enjoy your weekend!

mindy.e.hayes.naf@us.navy.mil

Key Links and Resources


CUSD App: Please download our new CUSD app, which consolidates school communications for staff and families:


Google: https://bit.ly/3EDdhHt

Apple: https://apple.co/3hLW2Kb

2023-2024 Calendar of Events

September 4, 2023: NO SCHOOL/Labor Day Holiday

September 12, 2023: TK-2 Picture Day

September 13, 2923: Preschool Picture Day

September 14, 2023: 3-5 Picture Day

September 14, 2023: School Board Meeting

September 19th 2023: PTO Meeting at Village: Childcare and Snacks provided (5:00-6:30 PM)

September 29, 2023: NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS/Teacher Workday


October 2nd - 6th 2023: Fall Spirit Week

October 9, 2023: NO SCHOOL/District Fall Holiday

October 6, 2023: Coronado High School Homecoming Parade and Game *Updated

October 11, 2023: Before School Membership Event (7:30 AM)

October 12, 2023: PTO Bingo for Books (5:30 PM)

October 19, 2023: School Board Meeting

October 30-November 3, 2023: Family/Teacher Conferences (all students) /Early Release at 1:40pm


November 1, 2023: Turkey Dinner Lotto

November 9, 2023: Veterans Day Event

November 9, 2023: PTO Movie Night (5:00-8:00 PM)

November 10, 2023: NO SCHOOL/Veterans’ Day Holiday

November 14, 2023: PTO Meeting at Village: Childcare and Snacks provided

November 16, 2023: School Board Meeting

November 20-24, 2023: NO SCHOOL/Thanksgiving Recess


December 1, 2023: Coronado Holiday Parade

December 6, 2023: PTO Before School Membership Event

December 14, 2023: School Board Meeting

Friday December 22-January 5, 2024: NO SCHOOL Winter Recess


January 15, 2024: NO SCHOOL/Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday

January 16, 2024: PTO Meeting at Village: Childcare and Snacks provided (5:00-6:30)

January 22-26, 2024: Great Kindness Challenge

January 25, 2024: End of Semester 1

January 26, 2024: NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS/Teacher Workday

January 29, 2024: Start of Semester 2 -- Report Cards for Semester 1 sent home


February 7, 2024: PTO Before School Membership Event (7:30 AM)


February 16, 2024: NO SCHOOL/Lincoln Presidents Day Holiday

February 19, 2024: NO SCHOOL/Washington Presidents Day Holiday

February 23, 2024: PTO Movie Night (Granzier Hall)


March 4-8, 2024: Read Across America Week

March 12, 2024: PTO Meeting at Village: Childcare and Snacks provided (5:00-6:30)

March 20, 2024: School Wide "Fun Run Jog-A-Thon"

March 27, 2024: Village Open House (5:00-6:00)

Friday March 29-April 5, 2024: NO SCHOOL Spring Recess



April 17-19, 2024: Family/Teacher Conferences (by invitation/request)/Early Release 1:40pm

April 19, 2024: Biliteracy Awards and Cultural Fair

April 22-26, 2024: Spring Spirit Week

April 24, 2024: Administrative Professionals Day

April 30, 2024: PTO Meeting at Village: Childcare and Snacks provided (5:00-6:30)


May 6-10, 2024: Certificated Staff Appreciation Week

May 6-31: State Testing in Grades 3, 4, 5

May 23, 2024: PTO Village Elementary Open House

May 20-24, 2024: Classified Staff Appreciation Week

May 27, 2024: NO SCHOOL/Memorial Day Holiday


June 10-14, 20204: 5th Grade Promotion Week

June 13, 2024: Last Day of School/5th Grade Promotion/Early Release at NOON

Peter Kuhns
Peter is using Smore to create beautiful newsletters