

Dragon Blast
August 2024

February 28, 2025
A Busy Month at The Howse!
February was filled with exciting learning experiences and celebrations! We honored Black History Month and welcomed Mayor DeBaptiste, who engaged our third, fourth, and fifth graders in a meaningful discussion. Meanwhile, our kindergarten through second-grade students participated in Health for Humanity Yoga, exploring the benefits of Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) for a healthy body, mind, and spirit.
One of the highlights this month was a PBIS reward—an incredible Virtual Reality session with our district technology team! Students took virtual trips to the Golden Gate Bridge, the Great Wall of China, explored the ocean depths, and even created their own rainforest.
Throughout February, we focused on empathy. Be sure to check out the beautiful hearts displayed on classroom doors and hallways next week during conferences, showcasing how our students are learning to understand and share the feelings of others.
As we step into March, our character theme is Honesty. We look forward to partnering with you at conferences next week and starting the final trimester strong!
Important Dates
March 5 - End of 2nd Trimester
March 5-7 - Conferences
March 12 - Honors Band Concert at Rustin
March 19 - No School for students, Inservice Day
March 21- Spring Pictures
March 21 - Report Cards available online
March 31 - No School, Eid Al Fitr
West Chester Way Maker-Mrs. Pezone!
We are thrilled to share that our very own Mrs. Pezone has been recognized as a West Chester Way Maker! This new initiative honors educators and staff who go above and beyond to educate, inspire, and support our students in achieving their personal best. Mrs. Pezone exemplifies The West Chester Way through her dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to our school community.
Calling All Poets!
Does your student love playing with words and expressing their creativity? Enter the District Poetry Contest for a chance to share their voice! This is an opportunity to showcase talent, explore new ideas, and compete with students from across the district. All grade levels are welcome to participate.
Submit your best poem and let your words shine! 📖✨
For more details, ask your teacher or read more about it below.
PSSA Testing in Grades 3-5
4th and 5th Grade Spring Track Meet
Nurse's Notes
PTO Pit Stop
Thank you to Book Fair Committee Chairs Shilpa Mudiganti, Katie Price, and Katrin Golightly for making such a wonderful week of literacy possible. To our crew of volunteers who made the shopping possible, we love you!
On Monday, February 17th, 64 bowlers and even more parents gathered at the Bowling Palace in Downingtown for some bonding time outside of the house and outside of the school. A fun time was had by all and many families were really appreciative of the opportunity to participate.
Thanks to Dana Kelly, head of the 5th grade fundraising committee for organizing another fun family night!
Recently, the Hospitality Committee also sponsored the efforts to restock the staff lounge with the little snacks and paper necessities that make the day just a little easier. Thank you to everyone who contributed by sending money, ordering supplies, or dropping off snacks. Thanks to our Hospitality Committee Co-chairs Kaitlin Prosser and Laura McGrory for keeping our MCH teachers and staff happy!
Colors of India Celebration
Save the date for this celebration honoring the Indian tradition of Holi! April 5th 2:00 - 4:00 pm at MCH Cost $7 per person (max. cost of $20 per family) The first part of the event will feature crafts, stories, dance as well as samples of traditional Indian food. We will then begin our color fun, which in Indian culture symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. Participants in the color fun portion will get delightfully messy, so be sure to read the details on the registration page. This is not a drop-off event and children must be supervised by an accompanying adult. Don't let the kids have all the fun - we encourage ALL family members to enjoy this colorful event! This is our second year running the event and we are so excited to offer this opportunity to all families. It was very well attended last year!
Spring Fair 2025
Mary C. Howse Elementary School
Email: jpavlo@wcasd.net
Website: https://www.wcasd.net/mch
Location: 641 West Boot Road, West Chester, PA 19380
Phone: 484 266 1300