Dear Tyler Families,

Please be advised that Tyler Elementary School will be closed on Thursday, October 3rd, in observance of Rosh Hashanah. Classes will resume as usual on Friday, October 4th. Enjoy the day off, and we look forward to seeing everyone back at school!

Tyler Elementary School will be administering the Virginia Language and Literacy Screening System
(VALLSS) to all kindergarten students in Prince William County. Approximate testing windows: September 30th - October 22nd.

Make-up testing will continue throughout the testing window as needed. For more information, visit the PALS Legacy website at https://literacy.virginia.edu and click on the tab “Families +”.

Please feel free to contact Stephanie Richards, Tyler's Reading Specialist, at richarsm@pwcs.edu or 703-754-7181 if you have any questions about VALLSS testing or procedures.

The Impact Aid Survey will be available in ParentVUE starting September 30, 2024. We encourage all parents and guardians to complete the survey by the deadline of November 30, 2024. Your participation is essential in helping us secure vital funding to support our students and programs. Thank you for your cooperation!

Mrs. Krause loved going into all the first grade classrooms to do the first Gifted Education lesson of the school year! This first lesson focused on creative thinking! Students listened to the book, "Beautiful Oops" by Barney Saltzberg! Students then had opportunities to design their own beautiful creation! In PWCS, all students in kindergarten through second grade participate in enrichment lessons taught by gifted resource teachers. The lessons focus on nurturing critical and creative thinking skills and expose all students to challenging opportunities. The Early Talent Development program recognizes students with gifted potential and provides targeted support to develop that potential.

Just a quick heads-up: the PTO Store will be open every Friday at a table in our cafeteria. To make sure your child has enough time to shop, please remember:

• Store Hours: Every Friday
• Cut-off Time for Purchases: 8:43 AM

Children only have time to shop after arrival and before the first bell rings, so we suggest planning ahead to avoid any rush with breakfast and shopping. This can help ensure a smooth start to the day.

Thanks for your support!

From September 15 to October 15, we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to honor the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. This month-long celebration highlights the diverse backgrounds and experiences of those whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

Origins and Significance

Hispanic Heritage Month began as a week-long celebration in 1968, introduced by Congressman George E. Brown. It was later expanded to a month by President Ronald Reagan in 19881. The dates are significant as they coincide with the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua on September 15, followed by Mexico on September 16 and Chile on September 182.

Contributions to American Society

Hispanic and Latino Americans have profoundly influenced various aspects of American life. From arts and entertainment to science and public service, their contributions are vast and varied. Notable figures include civil rights leaders like Cesar Chavez, artists like Frida Kahlo, and athletes like Roberto Clemente1.

Celebrating the Culture

Throughout the month, we celebrate with festivals, educational activities, and cultural events that showcase the vibrant traditions of Hispanic and Latino communities. This is a time to enjoy traditional foods, music, dance, and art, and to learn more about the history and achievements of Hispanic Americans2.

In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, 4th grade students are learning about Mexican Talavera Tiles in art class. They are creating a printmaking project using traditional tile designs and colors. Students also have the option of designing their own tile that demonstrates radial symmetry.

Students learned that Talavera Tile is crafted, glazed, and painted by hand. Its origins are from 17th century Mexico with the arrival of people from Spain, who introduced new methods of tile and pottery making. The area of Puebla, Mexico is known for its clay, and two types are used in Talavera pottery. While the style of Talavera pottery can be seen in stores everywhere, authentic Talavera pottery is expensive. There are only around 20 shops that produce certified Talavera pottery.

We encourage everyone to participate in the events and activities planned for Hispanic Heritage Month. It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn, appreciate, and celebrate the rich cultural tapestry that Hispanic and Latino Americans bring to our community.

4th grade families we need your help! In recognition of Hispanic Heritage month, 4th graders will be creating a Talavera Tile printmaking project in art class. We would love to include student artwork in our newsletter and social media posts - but we need your permission first. Please take a moment to fill out this form. Thank you for your support!

https://forms.office.com/r/xE5ZMJ8wey

Rosh Hashanah, which means “head of the year” in Hebrew, is the Jewish New Year. This significant holiday marks the beginning of the High Holy Days, a ten-day period of introspection and repentance that culminates in Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.

Rosh Hashanah is celebrated on the first and second days of Tishrei, the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar. This year, it begins at sunset on October 2nd and ends at nightfall on October 4th. The holiday commemorates the creation of the world and is a time for Jews to reflect on their actions over the past year and seek forgiveness for their sins.

One of the central observances of Rosh Hashanah is the sounding of the shofar, a ram’s horn, which is blown in synagogues to call people to repentance. Traditional customs also include attending synagogue services, reciting special prayers, and enjoying festive meals with symbolic foods such as apples dipped in honey, which represent the hope for a sweet new year.

At our school, we are proud to celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures and traditions that make up our diverse community. Rosh Hashanah is a wonderful opportunity for all of us to learn about and appreciate Jewish customs and values. By embracing and understanding each other’s traditions, we foster a more inclusive and compassionate environment for everyone.

Rosh Hashanah is a time for personal reflection, prayer, and community. It encourages individuals to think about their lives, make amends, and set intentions for the coming year. As we celebrate this holiday, let’s embrace its spirit of renewal and strive to bring more kindness and compassion into our world.

Shanah Tovah! Wishing everyone a happy and sweet new year!

Meet Maria Trochan: Tyler’s Energetic Physical Education Teacher!

At Tyler ES, we are incredibly fortunate to have Mrs. Trochan, our spirited and dedicated Physical Education teacher. With a career spanning 27 years in education, Mrs. Trochan has spent the last 16 years bringing joy and movement to our students.

A Day in the Life of Mrs. Trochan

Mrs. Trochan’s favorite part of her job is seeing kids move and smile all day long. Her enthusiasm is contagious, and she believes in the power of physical activity to brighten anyone’s day. Whether it’s a game of soccer, a fun relay race, or a dance-off, Maria ensures that every student finds joy in movement.

Words to Live By

Mrs. Trochan lives by the quote, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” This mantra not only inspires her students to give their best effort but also reflects her own adventurous spirit.

Fun Fact Alert!

Did you know that Mrs. Trochan once rode a bike all the way from Raleigh, NC to Washington, DC? This incredible feat showcases her determination and love for adventure.

Beyond the Gym

When she’s not at school, Mrs. Trochan loves spending time with her family and diving into a good book. Her favorite author is Nicholas Sparks, and she enjoys the heartwarming stories he tells.

A Superpower Wish

If Mrs. Trochan could have any superpower, she would choose the ability to keep everyone young. Her wish speaks volumes about her caring nature and her desire to see everyone enjoy life to the fullest.

Favorites

• Sports Teams: Rangers, Yankees, Giants
• Movie: The Sound of Music
• TV Show: NCIS
• Food: Fruit, especially berries

A Message to Tyler Families

Mrs. Trochan is passionate about creating a positive and active environment for all students. She believes in the importance of physical education and is dedicated to helping each child find their love for movement.

Join us in celebrating Maria Trochan, a true gem at Tyler, who makes every day a little brighter and a lot more fun!

Dear parents, our Lost and Found will be cleaned out at the end of each month. Please remind your child to check the Lost and Found section in the morning for any missing items, as unclaimed items will be donated.

We warmly invite all parents to join our Family Engagement Series, a wonderful opportunity to connect, learn, and grow together as a community. This series includes interactive workshops, informative sessions on child development, and fun family activities designed to strengthen the bond between parents and children. Don’t miss out on this chance to engage with other families and gain valuable insights to support your child’s growth and well-being.

Target Audience: Students and families in preschool-Grade 5

6:30-7:30 p.m. on Tuesday October 1, 2024 – Live Zoom Webinar or In Person

Join us on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, for an informative session on how you can extend your child's learning journey using their school iPad. We will explore educational apps and accessibility features to support learning at home.

Presenters for this session: Gail Charnick, Instructional Technology Coach, and Sean Ward, Instructional Technology Coach, with Prince William County Public Schools

Register for Tuesday, October 1 – Zoom Webinar or In Person

In Person Location: Sinclair Elementary School, 7801 Garner Dr., Manassas, VA 20109

For language accommodations, please complete the request form for the October 1 event by Thursday, September 26.

Target Audience: All PWCS students and families

6:30-7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, October 8, 2024 – Live Zoom Webinar

Join us on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, for a webinar that will provide an overview of the Varsity Tutors for Schools platform, a free online resource for grades K-12 designed to support your students’ academic growth. You will learn how to access these resources through the school portal.

Presenter for this session: Sarah Marr, Senior Director of Partnerships, with Varsity Tutors for Schools

Register for Tuesday, October 8 - Zoom Webinar

For language accommodations, please complete the request form for the October 8 event by Thursday, October 3.

Target Audience: All PWCS students and families

6:30-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 10, 2024 – Live Zoom Webinar

Join us on Thursday, October 10, 2024, for a webinar that focuses on the Prince William County Public Schools’ security team. We will share details of our training programs for school security officers, staff, and students within our district.

Presenters for this session: Jacob Edwards, Supervisor of Crisis Management, and Marcos Bocanegra, Senior School Security Officer, with Prince William County Public Schools

Register for Thursday, October 10 - Zoom Webinar

For language accommodations, please complete the request form for the October 10 event by Monday, October 7.

Target Audience: Elementary school students and families

6:30-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 17, 2024 – Live Zoom Webinar

Join us on Thursday, October 17, 2024, for a webinar that will focus on what Specialty Programs are available at the elementary school level. We will review the program offerings and discuss the application process, including deadlines. We will also discuss transportation options for students attending Specialty Programs.

Presenter for this session: Kelly Brown, Supervisor of Advanced Academics and Specialty Programs, with Prince William County Public Schools

Register for Thursday, October 17 - Zoom Webinar

For language accommodations, please complete the request form for the October 17 event by Monday, October 14.

Target Audience: All PWCS students and families

6:30-7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, October 22, 2024 – Live Zoom Webinar

Join us on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, for a webinar to learn how Prince William County Public Schools is fostering strong connections with families and the community. Learn about our Family Engagement Series, meet School Parent Liaisons, and get to know about our Family Academic and Community Engagement Specialists (FACES) and Community Hubs. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage and connect!

Presenter for this session: Yanet Boyd, Supervisor of Family and Community Engagement, with Prince William County Public Schools

Register for Tuesday, October 22 - Zoom Webinar

For language accommodations, please complete the request form for the October 22 event by Thursday, October 17.

When: Wednesday, October 23, 2024, from 6-7 p.m. via Zoom online seminar

Join us for a webinar that will provide students and families with valuable information about the new Virginia Literacy Act (VLA) and what this means for your student. An overview of the main elements of the law will be provided and specific changes you will notice this year in literacy instruction and the updated Virginia Language and Literacy Screening System (VALLSS) for students in kindergarten - grade 3.

REGISTER HERE: https://pwcs-zm-edu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_lvVrBNm2Q_iwDhEq2yPv2A

To request an interpreter, please complete this form by October 18, 2024. https://forms.office.com/r/hYJvbFHHJc

Substitute teachers, teacher assistants, bus drivers, custodians, food service associates, and lifeguards are in high-demand and needed on an ongoing basis. Go to pwcs.edu/employment

APPLY TODAY

Visit www.pwcs.edu/employment Questions? Call 571-402-3868

Join the Prince William County Food and Nutrition Department.

Visit https://jobs.pwcs.edu/jobs

PWCS provides free translation and interpretation services to multilingual families to ensure they have access to essential information about their child's education, and that they can communicate with school officials in their preferred language. For more information please visit:

https://www.pwcs.edu/departments/translation_services/index

Parents,

Our library circulation system provides the option for parents to restrict access to specific titles in circulation in our school library, if they choose that option for their child. While the school shall make reasonable efforts to ensure that the student is not provided with access to such materials, it is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to ensure that the student understands the restriction and does not attempt to access the materials.

If you are interested in restricting specific library titles for your student(s), please visit the “Parent Library Controls” webpage for more information.

Restriction of library materials using the “Additional User Type” is a parent's responsibility. Librarians and school administrators can provide access to the link but cannot provide support within the system.

We are excited to announce that all PWCS schools have removed pork products from our menus and introduced new halal items. These changes aim to cater to our diverse community and enhance your dining experience.

Food Services: If you would like to ensure specific dietary blocks are in place for your child, please contact Mrs. Battles directly at BattleUL@pwcs.edu. She will be happy to assist you with any dietary concerns or special requests.

You can find food menus, nutrition information, and more on the Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) Food and Nutrition Services website1. They offer breakfast and lunch in all schools, and there are free meals available for students at 68 schools. If you need further details, feel free to contact the PWCS Food and Nutrition Department at 703-791-7314.

"A complete lunch offering includes these components: protein, grains, fruits, vegetables, and milk. Several choices within each category are available daily from which students can select a complete lunch. Students must select at least three components with at least one being a fruit or vegetable to make a meal".

Are you tired of working evenings and weekends? Would you like to be off during your child’s school breaks? Are you looking for a job that truly has an impact on your community? Consider working for PWCS Nutrition!

The PWCS Food and Nutrition Department is seeking passionate, dedicated, fun-loving applicants for all areas of the county. We strive to provide wholesome, enjoyable, high quality, nutritious meals to our students, so they can be ready to learn and take full advantage of the educational opportunities provided to them. The work we do is important, and the people who do it are inspiring. If these values are important to you too, come be part of our team!

The number of hours needed varies by school. Most shifts fall between 9am and 3pm. Employees have weekends, evenings, school holidays/breaks, and snow days off. In addition, PWCS Nutrition employees received free school lunch every day they work! The starting pay is $15.83 an hour, and there are opportunities for growth and advancement! Ready to join us? Go to https://jobs.pwcs.edu/Jobs/, and choose “Classified – FOOD SERVICE” from the job type drop down menu. Click the job link you are interested in applying for, and then click “log in to apply.” For help with the online application, contact Human Resources at 703-791-8050.

If you have questions or need additional information, please contact the PWCS Food and Nutrition Department at

703-791-7314. We look forward to hearing from you!

National School Lunch Week (NSLW) is October 15-18, 2024! This year, the PWCS Food and Nutrition Department held a Division-Wide Recipe Contest in September for students and staff to submit recipes to be added to the school breakfast or lunch menus. Winners from the PWCS Nutrition Recipe Contest will be announced during NSLW, and their recipes will be featured at PWCS Nutrition’s Annual Food Show on November 14th from 6-8pm at Patriot High School.

We encourage parents, guardians, and other family members to come join us for lunch during NSLW! Stop by the cafeteria and see for yourself the delicious and healthy choices available to students every day! Adult school lunches cost $4.65 and can be paid with cash. School lunch at PWCS includes your choice of an entrée, hot side, milk, and access to our unlimited Self-Serve Fresh Fruit and Garden Bars! Visit www.pwcsnutrition.com to view our daily menus!

Back to School Health Reminders

Medical Requirements for New Students: State law requires all students entering public schools for the first time to receive a comprehensive physical exam. This exam must be completed no earlier than 1 year before school entry. Students will not be allowed to attend school until this physical is on file. Please bring the completed physical to the school office as soon as you receive it from the doctor. Tyler office will be open all summer to receive your registration documents.

Immunizations: Students must meet minimum immunization requirements for school entry. Documented proof of adequate age-appropriate immunizations; administered within spacing and age requirements must be provided prior to school entry.

Health Conditions: Students who may need emergency treatment or health services for a medical condition are advised to have a Health Treatment Plan signed by both a doctor and a parent/guardian on file at school. Some conditions that require a treatment plan include asthma, diabetes, seizure disorders, bleeding and blood disorders, cancer, certain heart conditions and life-threatening allergies. All forms can be obtained in the school office or on the Tyler Elementary School website under the Nurse’s page.

Medication: We encourage all medications to be taken at home whenever possible. For those children requiring medication during the school day, a medication consent form must be completed. Over the counter medications given at school according to the manufacturer’s directions can be given with parental completion of the consent form. Prescription medication, as well as over-the-counter medications not taken per the manufacturer’s directives, will require a physician’s signature. All medications must be brought to the school by a parent/guardian and are to be in their original, sealed container.

Vision and Hearing Screenings: Each school year students in kindergarten, third grade and new students will have their vision and hearing screened. Parents/Guardians will only be notified if further evaluation is recommended.

If a child becomes noticeably sick or injured while at school a parent/guardian is called and may be asked to take the child home. Children who have the following symptoms will need to be picked up.

- A temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher

- A rash/skin eruption of unknown origin

- Vomiting or Diarrhea

- A suspected contagious illness

- A serious injury

- Obviously ill

Please have a plan in place making it possible for children to be picked up in the event of illness. The clinic has very limited resources for sick children. Children are to be fever free for 24 hours before returning to school following an illness. Please also give children 24 hours after vomiting and/or diarrhea before allowing their return to school.

Your child is beginning a new journey. Keep them engaged in learning by encouraging healthy habits. Frequent hand washing will be their best defense against illness. Encourage exercise, adequate rest, daily breakfast, and nutritious snacks and meals.

Dear Tyler families,

Please use one of the following three methods to notify the school of your child’s absence, late arrival, early dismissal, or change in dismissal. You can notify the school via email at tyes-frontoffice@pwcs.edu by phone, or through our online portals.

1) Email us at tyes-frontoffice@pwcs.edu

The email address can also be used for any other communications with the front office to ensure an efficient outcome. Please notify the school before 9:30am on the day of the absence.

2) ParentVUE - Please use ParentVUE as your second step for reporting current or future absences. Parents can submit attendance and notes for the same day and up to 30 days in the future, and upload supporting documentation such as doctor’s notes.

• When you login, choose the student that is or will be absent.
• Click " Report Absence” , then enter the information in the pop-up screen.
• Make sure you click on the correct date(s) and always provide a reason for the absence(s).

Click here for a link to use ParentVUE or to learn more about the program: site://www/about_us/the_hub/parent_vue_information

3) NEW Attendance & Dismissal Form (Reporting an Absence, Late Arrival, Early Dismissal or Dismissal Change)Click hereto open the form.

We are excited to invite families to take advantage of MySchoolBucks, a convenient online platform that allows you to keep track of what your students are eating at school. With MySchoolBucks, you can easily monitor meal purchases, view account balances, and even set up low-balance alerts to ensure your child never misses a meal. This tool not only helps you stay informed about your child’s nutrition but also promotes healthy eating habits. Join us in making school meals a seamless and transparent experience for everyone!

Reach Out to Our Social Worker!

If you or your student need assistance, our dedicated social worker is here to help. Whether it’s emotional support, resources, or guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re committed to ensuring every member of our community feels supported and valued. Please contact our social worker for any help you may need.

Top Dog Coordinator: Drew Blincoe

Contact: tylerwatchdogs@gmail.com

What is Watch D.O.G.S.?: Fathers, grandfathers, step-fathers, uncles, and other father figures volunteer to serve at least one day a year in a variety of school activities as assigned by the school principal or other administrator.

To volunteer: Online sign-up calendar

To learn more about the program: visit the Watch D.O.G.S website

We welcome visitors to enjoy lunch with their student at our designated visitor table. Due to space limitations, students cannot bring classmates to join them.

An optional allergy table is available for students with life-threatening allergies. To avoid cross-contamination, visitors should not sit at the allergy table when space is limited.

Reminders:

• Bring a government-issued photo ID (no digital copies).
• Stay in the main office or at the grey table until you leave. Wandering in hallways is not allowed for safety reasons.
• Students and their siblings need to remain seated at the table with their parent during lunch

Thank you for your cooperation!

McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance

To avoid being chronically absent (missing 10% or more of the school year), please be sure to plan vacations and trips during regularly scheduled school breaks. Below are links to this year's school calendar as well as next year's calendar for planning purposes.

2024-2025 Student Calendar

Tyler is excited to welcome our visitors and volunteers! Please, don't forget that all visitors and volunteers must present a photo ID and be checked into our RAPTOR system upon arrival. Please note that digital IDs cannot be accepted. Safety is our top priority!

PWCS staff members utilize School Status as the primary way to communicate with families. You will see this image at the bottom of email communications. We are learning that these messages may be going to 'junk mail' for some of our families. Please check your 'junk mail' folder for these message. Additionally, we are able to make phone calls using School Status which will appear to come from a new phone number (area code may be 804).

We want every student to feel celebrated on their special day. As a regular part of our morning announcements, birthdays are announced. Students are invited to come to the office for their birthday pencil. This has become a popular tradition at Tyler that we look forward to continuing. We understand that families may also want to do something special for their child's birthday.

Open Special Day Certificate for more information on student birthday celebrations.

*Birthday party invitations are NOT permitted to be passed out at school. Thank you for helping us to keep the focus on learning.

Special Day Certificate (Word)

PWCS is committed to ensuring safe and welcoming environments for students and staff. If a safety concern or crisis occurs in or near our schools, PWCS uses standard terms to communicate with families. Watch this video to become familiar with the terms.

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