Aviator Update #12

Dear Duke Families,

We’ve had a wonderful week filled with school spirit and fun! We kicked things off with the PTA’s Trunk or Treat event and wrapped up with the Masked Dancer Extravaganza. Smiles and laughter were everywhere! If your student hasn’t told you already, ask them about their favorite performances from the Masked Dancer—it was a memorable experience for everyone.

This week will be a bit unusual, with no school on Tuesday for Election Day and an early-release on Friday. But we’re ready to SOAR through it!

Best regards,

Katie Kortokrax, Principal

Zach Adams, Assistance Principal

• Tues., Nov 5 - No School, Election Day
• Wed., Nov 6 - Report Card Distribution
• Thurs., Nov 7 - Veterans Appreciation Event
• Thurs., Nov 7 - 2nd Grade Veterans Day Performance @ 9AM (2nd grade families and Service Members invited)
• Fri., Nov 8 - Two Hour Early Release
• Mon., Nov 11 - Veterans Day, No School
• Fri., Nov 15 - Fall Picture Day (Retakes)

Fridays are School Spirit Days

Wear Red, White and/or Blue or an CWFDES Shirt!

An email with an invitation was sent to all parents/guardians who are active duty, veterans or are retired from the military. We asked that you RSVP'd by Friday, November 1st. If you haven't responded but would like to attend, please RSVP by tonight (at the latest) to ensure we have enough coffee and pastries for all attendees. Thank you for your service to our country and your unwavering support of our school.

On November 14, 2024, Frank Kros will present, Wonder Words: Using the Power of Language to Help Kids Learn and Thrive from 6 pm- 8 pm at the Forrest Career & Technology Center, Dohrman A. The workshop is free but registration is required via email to parnersforsucess@smcps.org

Classic Photography will be photographing new students, students who were absent on the original picture day, and any student whose parents are requesting a retake.

Parents of the students participating on Retake Day should be aware of the following:

• If a student was absent on the initial picture day, their name will appear on the unphotographed list so that you are aware that they need to have their picture taken for the yearbook.
• If a parent has expressed interest in having their child’s picture retaken, this can also be done on retake day. The student should bring the original photo package, including the original envelope and all picture products, to turn into the photographer when they come to sit for a new picture. You do NOT not need to fill out a new order form.

Duke Elementary would be 'Muffin' without its wonderful teachers and staff members. Lets show them how much we appreciate their hard work and dedication to the safety and education of our children by baking (or buying) them muffins. Check out the sign up below and grab a spot to donate an item. Items can be shipped to or dropped off at 41456 Culpepper Way, Leonardtown OR in the office no later than Monday, November 11th. Since this day is a holiday, you are more than welcome to drop your goodies off on my porch. I will make sure they get to the school. Thank you for your support and please reach out if you have any questions.

Congratulations to our kindergarteners who won the October Attendance Challenge.

Unfortunately, illness has hit our community hard in October. We completely understand and want you to stay home when you're sick and contagious! We are really hoping that our students are healthy and get back to good attendance habits in November. As of right now, approximately 20% of our students are considered chronically absent (i.e., 114 of our students have been absent 6 or more days thus far, which is equivalent to 10% of the school year). When you're well, be here before the bell!

Thank you for making regular school attendance a priority!

Check our Nutrislice Webpage to:

• View Helpful nutrition info
• Download our FREE mobile app!
• Print menus

• Monday, October 28
• Tuesday, October 29
• Wednesday, October 30
• Thursday, October 31
• Friday, November 1

There are so many fantastic things happening in our efforts to support SMCPS students with disabilities. Please use this survey to share your praise, story, or news about successes in your school or department!

Within the Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) is the Google Workspace for Education Additional Services Agreement. In order for students to have access to "additional services," the form granting your student access must be completed.

Captain Walter Francis Duke Elementary

Ms. Katie Kortokrax, Principal

Mr. Zach Adams, Assistant Principal

We welcome your questions and inquiries. Please call 240-309-4658, refer to the SMCPS Website, or our CWFDES website for additional information.

Website: https://schools.smcps.org/cwfdes/
Location: 23595 Hayden Farm Lane, Leonardtown, MD 20650
Phone: (240) 309-4658
Twitter X: @CWFDES_SMCPS