Parkside Family Newsletter
Newsletter 2: October 2024
Picture Re-Take Day
Picture re-take day is Wednesday, October 30, 2024
NO spring picture day
Volunteers Needed!
Parkside Lunchroom Volunteers Needed!
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0445A5AA28A1F58-51795885-parkside
We are looking for parent/guardian, grandparent or other community volunteers that are willing to help with daily lunchroom tasks for our students! Are you good at opening fruit cups, squirting ketchup and cutting open go-gurt? If so, then this is an opportunity for you!
The volunteers will work alongside a school staff member. Staff members will take the lead on arrival/dismissal procedures and any individual student needs or concerns that arise during lunch. The assistance of volunteers over the lunch hour will allow us to use staff in other ways throughout the building and to address the shortage of substitutes available in the district.
Volunteers will be standing and/or walking around during the entire lunch period (11:15am- 12:50pm). It is a cafeteria where approx 120 students are eating and interacting at a time so being comfortable with noise is helpful too. Consider wearing comfortable clothing and shoes to easily move between tables.
Any volunteers will be required to complete a background check prior to their first volunteer day. The process takes approximately 1 week to complete. Additionally upon arrival at school the volunteer will need to bring an ID to scan for a visitor badge.
Volunteers will receive information regarding the procedures of the lunchroom and seating areas for each grade upon arrival prior to their first volunteer opportunity.
It is also very important to note that as a school volunteer, all student and school-related information is to be kept private and confidential. If you observe or hear a concern while volunteering this should be privately addressed with the principal or office staff. Things you observe, hear or learn during your volunteer experience are not to be shared with other families, on social media or in the community.
Unfortunately we are not able to accommodate younger siblings joining or arrangements for the volunteer to eat with their child during the volunteer time. Additionally, photographs of any kind are not allowable for student privacy reasons during this volunteer time.
Thank you for your consideration and we hope to see you as a Parkside lunchroom volunteer very soon!
Mrs. Trame
PBIS Celebration Floats & Free Time!
Homecoming Spirit Week
Unity Day
The School District of Monroe invites all students, families and community members to WEAR ORANGE on Wednesday, October 16th to show unity for kindness, acceptance, and inclusion and to send a visible message that no child should ever experience bullying. If you would like to learn more, we encourage you to visit the Pacer website at: https://www.pacer.org/bullying/parents/definition-impact-roles.asp
Parkside School Store: A Fun Shopping Experience is Back!
We’re excited to share that the Parkside School Store is returning! This small shop, organized by our dedicated Parkside students and staff, offers a variety of fun and useful items at prices that won't break the bank—everything is $3 or less! Students can shop for notebooks, folders, pencils, erasers, pencil grips, pens, pencil sharpeners, earbuds, and more. Whether they need new school supplies or just want to pick up something fun, the school store has it all!
The Parkside School Store located in Parkside LMC will be open during lunch recess (11:00-12:30) on the following dates:
- Friday, October 18, 2024
- Friday, November 22, 2024
- Friday, December 20, 2024
- Friday, January 17, 2025
- Friday, February 21, 2025
- Friday, March 21, 2025
- Friday, April 25, 2025
A special highlight of the school store is that our 4th graders will be running it, giving them hands-on experience in finance. At the end of the year, the proceeds will be celebrated with an ice cream party to reward their hard work, and the remaining funds will be donated to a charity chosen by the 4th graders. Encourage your child to stop by and see what’s in store—they’re sure to find something they’ll love!
-Mrs. Meier
Title I Math
Race to Read
Once again, fourth and fifth grade students will have a fantastic opportunity to engage in reading and friendly competition–that’s right, it’s Race-to-Read time! Starting in November, fourth and fifth grade students are encouraged to participate in a district-wide book competition, where students will read eight award-winning books and compete against other elementary schools in May.
Students will be responsible for reading the books over the course of the next few months and preparing to answer quiz bowl-like questions for the competition. Participating students will meet several times during their lunch time to help their reading stay on track and to better prepare for the competition in May.
Parkside facilitators, Mrs. Kittoe and Mrs. Kiley will be talking to the fourth and fifth grade students in the next few days to explain the Race-to-Read program in greater detail. Stay tuned for more information in the coming weeks.
Happy reading!
Parkside Art
Hello Parkside! My name is Mrs. Beach and I am filling in for Mrs. Calvert in the art room while she is on maternity leave. The students have been very busy reviewing the Elements of Art and working on their projects! Kindergarten started out their year by creating a gumball machine inspired by artist Wayne Thiebaud and are currently working on mixing colors to create a Fall pumpkin. Meanwhile in First grade, they have been reviewing the primary colors and cutting out geometric shapes to create their very own Piet Mondrian inspired collage. Second graders have been learning all about self portraits and putting their own crazy hair day twist on their own self portraits. In third grade we discovered what Neurographic Art is and created our own Neurographic drawings. Fourth graders have been busy reviewing geometric and organic shapes to create a leaf composition inspired by artist Andy Goldsworthy. Lastly, Fifth Grade has been working hard on one of Mrs. Calvert’s favorite projects! After discussing how to use lines to create a form, they drew a pumpkin landscape and this week have been completing the second step of painting them with watercolors. We know Mrs. Calvert can’t wait to see them!
We will be using Artsonia.com again this year in the art room. Artsonia is a free, online platform that creates a digital portfolio of student artwork and serves multiple purposes for families, students, and the art program. Please check out your students portfolio and share it with family, near and far!
Parkside Fall Classroom Celebrations
Classrooms will be participating in a variety of Halloween and fall activities including a party. If your child does not celebrate Halloween, you prefer not to have your child participate in this event or would like further information about the specific activities feel free to contact your child's classroom teacher.
There will NOT be any Halloween costumes/activities on October 31st.
Please look for communication from your child's teacher regarding specific classroom plans for treats and activities on this date.
PTO Fall Fun Festival
*If your child does not celebrate Halloween, you prefer not to have your child participate in this event or would like further information about the specific activities feel free to contact your child's classroom teacher.
Note: Volunteer disclosures are required and must be completed at least 1 week in advance if you sign up to volunteer at school for this event.
Student Flu Vaccine Clinic at Parkside
This vaccine will be provided FREE of charge from Green County Public Health and the Wisconsin Immunization Program as part of a community immunization exercise.
- Complete and sign the consent form (complete a separate consent form for each child)
- Return the signed consent form to your child’s school Health Office by Wednesday, October 16th
If you have any questions about the vaccine or the vaccination clinics, please call Green County Public Health at (608) 328-9390.
Fall Conferences
Thursday, November 14th – 4:00-7:00 PM
Thursday, November 19th – 4:00-7:00 PM
Skyward Conference scheduling will be available online starting on Wednesday, October 30th at 8 a.m.
🍂 Mindful Moments 🍂
WOW! It is hard to believe that it is already October. The season is changing, leaves are becoming colorful and the weather is getting cooler. We are now a month into school and children are learning great ways to focus. Fall is a great time to bring awareness to our senses and how they can help us focus and be present. There are so many different smells, things to see, hear, taste and touch. Here are some activities you can do with your child(ren) to be mindful of their surroundings and focus using their senses.As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, let’s take a moment to appreciate the beauty of this season together.
For Parents: Take a deep breath and notice the colors around you. Share what you see with your child—how the orange, yellow, and red leaves create a tapestry against the sky. Let this be a reminder to pause and find joy in simple moments.
For Children: Encourage them to look closely at a fallen leaf. Feel its texture and notice its shape. What colors do you see? How does it feel in your hand? Remember, just like the leaves, we all change and grow.
Together, let’s find gratitude in the little things—like warm drinks, cozy sweaters, and time spent together. This fall, let’s embrace the beauty of nature and the warmth of family.
Have an amazing October!
~Mrs. Houston
Parkside LMC
During the first month of school students learned and reviewed library procedures such as organization, taking care of books, and how to use Destiny which is our district library catalog .
Some exciting changes in the library include self checkout of books for grades 3-5and the return of Makerspace once a month for all students.
ALICE Drill- Reunification Information
In the month of September all classrooms reviewed safety procedures for various types of emergency events that may happen at school (medical, fire, storms, intruder or emergency evacuation). The students did an excellent job reviewing these procedures and asking questions. If you have questions about any of these procedures feel free to contact the school office.
We wanted to share information with families regarding our emergency procedures in the event that we would have a situation where an off-site reunification process would be required. The School District of Monroe follows procedures outline by the Office of School safety. An offsite reunification would require families to report to the location and provide information about their child/student via this card as well as provide required identification information. This process is to ensure the safety of all involved.
School District of Monroe Backpack Buddies Program
The Backpack Buddies Program works to support families that do not have enough food to adequately support all members of the family. The program regularly delivers a pack of food to supplement the food source within the home and is completely funded with community donations.
If you are interested in participating in the Backpack Buddies program, please contact the School Counselor or Health Aide at your child's school. Please know that your family name and child(ren)'s identity are kept confidential. Privacy is a top priority.
Wellness Information
5 Foods That Can Strengthen Kids’ Minds Did you know that there are certain foods that are especially beneficial for a kid’s brain? And, no, it’s better than just increasing the veggies. Here are 5 easy ones to add to the menu! Eggs- a good source of protein & they contain choline, which is essential for memory & brain development. Eggs support brain cell communication & overall mental clarity. Added bonus-eggs are fairly inexpensive & there are so many different ways to prepare them! Avocados- rich in healthy monounsaturated fats that promote healthy blood flow. Avocados can improve brain function & support a healthy mood. They can be blended in smoothies for added creaminess. Unsweetened Greek Yogurt- contains protein, zinc, choline & iodine which are all vital to brain development. Yogurt is also a great probiotic source. Add some fresh fruit to sweeten the deal. Nuts & Seeds- walnuts, almonds & peanuts are full of protein & omega fatty acids that a developing brain needs. Pumpkin seeds, especially, may enhance memory & boost your mood. Also, great additions to your yogurt or eaten by themselves. Dark Berries- are full of antioxidants, particularly vitamin C & flavonoids, which protect brain cells & can enhance memory & cognitive function. Blueberries are a superfood high in antioxidants, making them a powerful brain food. Fresh or frozen, they are great additions to smoothies, yogurt, or eaten on their own.
Cold Weather Recess Reminder
Be sure your student is prepared for the
weather before coming to school!
(Please label sweatshirts, coat, gloves, hat, etc.)
Inclement Weather at Drop Off
When it is raining or there is a negative "feels like" temperature:
- Students arriving on the East side of the building will enter through the K/1 recess doors (door #5).
- Students arriving on the West side of the building will enter through the 3rd grade recess doors (door #10).
- Students will sit in the hallway outside their classrooms to wait for the morning bell to ring, breakfast will be available in the cafeteria like usual.
- Please remember that the front DRIVEWAY IS FOR BUS DROP OFF ONLY.
PTO Clothing Fundraiser
Watch for more information about the PTO clothing/ spirit wear coming home soon!
PTO Bullets Pizza Fundraiser
Watch for more information for a "take & bake" pizza and cookie dough fundraiser coming home soon.
Forward Test Results Coming Home!
Watch you students folders for their Forward Test Results.
Here is a link below for more information regarding Forward Test results.
https://dpi.wi.gov/sites/default/files/imce/assessment/pdf/Forward_Brochure_for_Families.pdf
Spanish Version: https://dpi.wi.gov/sites/default/files/imce/assessment/pdf/Forward_Brochure_for_Families_ES.pdf
Parkside Music Concert Dates
Monday, December 16- Parkside 2nd & 3rd Grade 6:30pm @ MHS PAC
Monday, March 3- Parkside Kindergarten & 1st Grade 6:30pm @ MHS PAC
Thursday, March 20- 5th Grade Combined Elementary Chorus Concert 7pm @ MHS PAC
Monday, May 19- 4th & 5th Grade 7pm @ MHS PAC
Questions about the Upcoming Referendum
Visit the district website for more information regarding the upcoming referendum by clicking above on "Referendum Information".
Calendar of Upcoming Events
*all events are subject to change at any time
September 3: 1st Day of School (full day)
September 4: PTO Meeting in PS LMC 6-7pm
September 4-9: PTO Monroe Papa Murphy's Pizza Fundraiser
September 19: Cheese Days Rally at PS
September 23-27: Homecoming week spirit days
September 25: 5th Grade Field Trip
October 1: Picture Day
October 2: 5th Grade Field Trip
October 2: PTO Meeting in PS LMC 6-7pm
October 4: No School
October 8: 4th Grade Field Trip
October 18: School Store open during lunch recess
October 24: PTO Fall Fun Day & Classroom Parties
October 25: No School
October 30: Picture Retake Day
November 6: PTO Meeting in PS LMC 6-7pm
November 14-21: PTO Fall Book Fair in PS LMC
November 14: Fall Conferences 4-7pm
November 19: PTO Breakfast & Books Event 7:15-7:45am
November 19: Fall Conferences 4-7pm
November 22: School Store open during lunch recess
November 26: PTO Bowling Fundraiser
November 27-December 2: No School
December 4: PTO Meeting in PS LMC 6-7pm
December 16: 2nd/3rd Concert at MHS PAC 6:30pm
December 18-23: PTO Monroe Papa Murphy's Pizza Fundraiser
December 18: PTO Book Swap
December 20: School Store open during lunch recess
December 23- January 1: No School
January 8: PTO Meeting in PS LMC 6-7pm
January 10: GFWC Poetry & Short Story contest for K-12th grades Due
January 17: End of Semester 1
January 17: School Store open during lunch recess
January 20: No School
February 5: PTO Meeting in PS LMC 6-7pm
February 6: 1st Semester Report Cards Go Home
February 20: Monroe Art Center collaboration performance for grades K-5
February 21: School Store open during lunch recess
February 27: PTO Family Movie Night in Gym (Doors open 5:45, movie starts 6pm)
February 28: No School
March 3: K/1st Grade Concert at MHS PAC 6:30pm
March 5: PTO Meeting in PS LMC 6-7pm
March 13: Spring Conferences 4-7pm
March 18: Spring Conferences 4-7pm
March 20: 5th Grade Combined Elementary Chorus at MHS PAC 7pm
March 21: School Store open during lunch recess
March 24-28: No School
April 2: PTO Meeting in PS LMC 6-7pm
April 7-12: PTO Spring Book Fair in PS LMC
April 8: PTO Breakfast & Books Event 7:15-7:45am
April 10: Parkside Open House 4:30-6:30pm
April 18: No School
April 25: School Store open during lunch recess
May 7: PTO Meeting in PS LMC 6-7pm
May 16: Kindergarten Round Up (no school for current kindergartners)
May 19: 4th/5th Grade Concert MHS PAC 7pm
May 22: PTO Family Fun Night
May 26: No School
June 4: Final report cards go home
June 5: Last day of school (half day, no lunch)