United South Central Elementary

December Newsletter

Rebel Rights

Be Responsible, Be Respectful, Be Safe

As we approach the end of 2024, gear up for the upcoming year, and embrace the Christmas holiday, I want to extend warm wishes to all USC elementary students and families for a safe, joyful, and healthy Holiday Season. Amid the hustle and bustle of the season, I hope you have time to reflect on the past, moments with loved ones, and the joy of festive celebrations. May you create lasting memories.

In reflection, this has been a remarkable first half of the year at USC Elementary, and we look forward to continuous improvement in 2025. In our pursuit of enhancing literacy initiatives, the cohesive community at USC Elementary has been a pivotal force in steering these literacy transformations with their knowledge rooted in their LETRS (Language Essential for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) training.

This year, we have integrated UFLI (explicit phonics instruction) into whole-group lessons, providing a strong foundation for all students. Additionally, students meet in Tier II small groups, where they receive targeted instruction tailored to their ability levels, with extra support as needed. Those who have mastered foundational concepts engage in acceleration activities to deepen and extend their learning. Teachers have embraced a collaborative approach, working within and beyond the classroom to align goals and design meaningful, student-centered learning experiences. These efforts reflect our commitment to prioritizing the best outcomes for every student.

This year, school staff have partnered with our elementary counselor, Mr. Wimmer, to create a classroom environment where students feel a strong sense of belonging. This collaboration encourages students to articulate their thoughts, embrace challenges, confidently ask questions, and develop problem-solving skills. These efforts enhance social and emotional growth and foster an atmosphere where students are empowered to act with integrity and make thoughtful choices.

Teachers use the Be Good People curriculum to reinforce essential life skills and foster a positive, inclusive learning environment. Each Monday, students are assigned a weekly mission: expressing gratitude, seeking assistance, following rules, or solving problems collaboratively. Teachers build on these missions by tailoring lessons to meet student’s unique needs, ensuring the concepts are meaningful and applicable. This approach promotes integrity, social awareness, and personal accountability, creating a solid foundation for meaningful connections and increased academic engagement.

Recognizing that learning extends beyond the classroom, especially during the holiday season, we strive to provide diverse experiences and events throughout the year to strengthen our sense of community. Homecoming, field trips, concerts, dress-up days, and Rebel Pride Celebrations foster connection and school spirit and reinforce our unique sense of community. These opportunities are made possible through your generous support of our fundraising efforts, and this community spirit makes USC Elementary unique.

While we close out the year and welcome a new one, remember to make it The Most Wonderful Time of the Year. I would like to extend my sincere wishes to you—Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, and a joyous Winter Solstice! Thank you for the ongoing support of your students and USC Elementary School. I sincerely appreciate everyone who contributes to making United South Central such an exceptional community. Embrace the season, and here's to a Healthy and Prosperous 2025!

Warm Regards

Jennifer Taylor
USC Elementary Principal
It’s a Great Day to be a Rebel!

On December 9, under Emily Rajtar’s leadership, the USC community united for a benefit supporting Audie Olson in her fight against cancer. The event featured a pasta meal, silent auction, raffle, and gift basket sales. The overwhelming turnout exemplified the true spirit of USC, as families, friends, and the community came together to demonstrate compassion and generosity. The collective effort showcased what makes our community so special, rallying together to support one of our own during a time of need. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this remarkable event.

December 6 - 5th grade GingerBread House Event - 5th Grade Parents Welcome
December 9 - USC Elementary Christmas Concert (K-2) at 2:00 P.M. and 7:00 P.M.
December 10 - USC Elementary Christmas Concert (3-5) at 2:00 and 7:00 P.M.
December 11 - 3rd Grade field trip to Ordway Concert, leaving at 7:30 am and returning at 2:45 pm
December 13 - Pre-school Holiday Movie
December 17 - School Board Meeting at 6:00 P.M in the Community Education Room
December 19 - Big Rebel/Little Rebel Holiday Party
December 20 - Holiday parties in respective classrooms and a movie
December 22 - January 1: Holiday Break/New Year
January 2 - School resumes

Morning supervision at USC begins at 8:00 a.m., but we’ve noticed students arriving as early as 7:15 a.m. Please remind your student to arrive as close to 8:00 a.m. as possible, whether they are dropped off, walk, or bike to school. Breakfast starts at 7:50 a.m., and before 8:00 a.m., staff members are involved in meetings and other duties, so we are unable to provide supervision prior to that time. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

This year, we are continuing our quarterly Rebel Pride celebrations, recognizing students who consistently exemplify being Respectful, Responsible, and Safe. Teachers nominate outstanding students from each grade level based on their demonstration of these values in various settings, including classrooms, hallways, and events. During the Rebel Pride ceremony, nominated students are honored with a formal announcement of their names, a framed certificate, and a medal. The celebrations also include school wide rewards that vary each quarter. In the first quarter, students enjoyed a read-in pajama day. This quarter, students will go for a movie outing at either the Flame or Kee Theatre.

Respect Award

This award is given to students who go above and beyond, showing respect to staff, students, and property during the quarter.

Pictured (L to R) Blake Sichmeller, Henlee Thofson, Angela Hicks, Zion Korynta, and Violet Korynta

This award is given to students who show up on time, are dedicated to completing work, and help others during the quarter.

Pictured (L to R) Bria Thofson, Landon Fendrich, Titus Walton, Adeline Goette, and Everson Stiernagle

This award is given to students who make safe choices, keep their hands and feet to themselves, and follow safety protocols in the classroom and throughout the building.

(L to R) Connor Kluender, Daivona Jones, Daniela Valle-Mejia, Ayden Koziolek, and Eleanor Hander

On November 11, 2024, USC held our annual Veterans Day Celebration to honor and thank Veterans for their invaluable service to our country. Elementary and high school students participated with musical performances, singing and playing in the band, and two high school students read a story honoring Veterans. This year’s guest speaker, Dane Giese, a USC graduate and Marine, brought special significance to the event. A special thank you goes to Dane, to all who attended, and to Pierre Stencel, our elementary teacher currently serving in the military. Let’s continue to express our gratitude for Veterans' sacrifices, not only on Veterans Day but year-round.

On November 8, 2024, our elementary students embarked on an enchanting adventure to the Land of Oz! They joined Dorothy, the Lion, Tin Man, Scarecrow, and Toto on their journey to meet the Wizard. The students were captivated by the vibrant storytelling, cheering on each character as they faced challenges along the yellow brick road. The performance was filled with moments of laughter, suspense, and heartfelt lessons, leaving a lasting impression on the students. We are grateful to Mrs. Wegner and the entire cast for the invitation to experience this wonderful play, an experience that brought stories to life and sparked a love for theater and imagination!

Sixth graders enthusiastically participated in the Game of Life, a hands-on activity that simulated real-world financial decisions and career planning. Students took on various roles, from managing budgets to navigating unexpected expenses, providing valuable lessons about responsibility and future planning. The activity not only engaged students in practical learning but also sparked meaningful conversations about goal-setting and making informed choices. A special thank you to Pam Krill and to all of the business owners who volunteered their time for this event.

We kindly request parents and guardians supervise their elementary-age children during our athletic and activity events. This helps everyone focus on enjoying the game and contributes to a well-managed, safe environment for all attendees. We truly appreciate the energy and enthusiasm of our events and want to ensure a positive experience for all participants. If adequate supervision is not provided, supervisors may need to dismiss individual students from the event to maintain order. This includes running around the Commons and being in areas in the school that are prohibited during games. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Elementary School Hours

Classes begin at 8:20 a.m. and are dismissed at 3:03 p.m. Students who are not in class by 8:20 a.m. will be marked tardy. If students arrive after 8:40 a.m., they will be marked absent.

Drop off and pick up at USC Elementary

• Students will enter the school by the main door by the elementary office

• Students can enter the building at 8:10 A.M. after they are lined up outside. Please be mindful to drop your students off as close to 8:10 A.M. as possible to alleviate a long wait before the start of the school day.

• Students who have breakfast can access the school building at 7:50 A.M. Upon arrival, they should proceed directly to the Commons Area. After breakfast, students will return outside and enter the elementary building at 8:10 A.M., when the official school day begins. It is important to note that students are not permitted to enter the elementary building until 8:10 A.M.

• Students will be dismissed from the main doors by the office.

Parking Notice: Make sure you are legally parked when dropping off and picking up students before and after school. Parking is off-limits in front of the school, where buses load and unload students. Do not park in any of the HANDICAP DESIGNATED AREAS.

Crosswalks: To prioritize students' safety, we request that everyone consistently use the designated crosswalks when dropping off or picking up students. We emphasize that our top priority is ensuring the safety of our students, and we discourage any attempts to walk between school buses, as it poses a significant safety risk. We want parents and students to use the designated crosswalks exclusively.

Entrance into the Building: For safety reasons, parents will drop off and pick up students outside the main doors. To encourage a smooth and organized school environment, parents are required to make an appointment when meeting with a teacher, counselor, or administrator. Additionally, parents and guardians have access to the front office but are not permitted in the school building during school hours without prior approval. Students are not permitted to bring visitors to school, and visitors are not allowed during breakfast or lunch. This policy helps maintain a focused and productive atmosphere for all students, and we appreciate your cooperation in this matter.

Parent Contact Information: Please notify the elementary office if your email address, mailing address, or telephone number changes. It is imperative that we contact you in case of a school-wide emergency or your child becomes ill. Also, keeping your contact information current will make sure you receive notices and announcements from the school.

Outdoor Recess: Winter weather is here! It is essential to remember that your child(ren) will have outdoor recess every day, weather permitting, unless it is below 0 degrees or if it is raining or wet outside. In such cases, recess will be held indoors. Your assistance in ensuring your students come to school adequately prepared for the weather is greatly appreciated. Unless the temperature is 60 degrees or higher, please ensure your child wears a jacket or coat. Additionally, during the winter months, students need to have the appropriate outdoor clothing such as layers, hats, mittens/gloves, scarves, boots, and snow pants when the snow is on the ground or mud on the playground.

Extra Clothing: Please send an extra set of clothing with your child. It is important to have an additional set in case of spills, mud, accidents, and wet clothing from recess. Thank you.

Lost and Found: Lost and Found tables are located in the Commons area, near the vending machine. To prevent your child's items from ending up in Lost and Found, please ensure all clothing is labeled correctly with their name.

In Mrs. Feists' third-grade classroom, students engaged with three different mental math strategies for subtraction. After being introduced to each method, students practiced all three in small groups. Using number lines, they worked collaboratively to count back, count on, and apply other subtraction strategies to solve simple problems. This comprehensive approach ensured students gained familiarity and confidence with multiple methods, enhancing their problem-solving skills and reinforcing their understanding of subtraction concepts.

In November, our fifth and sixth graders participated in an exciting "book tasting" event, giving them the chance to sample a wide variety of books across genres like fiction, non-fiction, mystery, historical fiction, memoir, graphic novels, science fiction, fantasy, and more, all while enjoying some tasty treats. Students browsed five different books, jotting down notes about each one, and ultimately selected their favorite for the upcoming book club. Over the next few weeks, they will dive into their chosen book, reading independently before gathering with their book club leader and group for discussions, and some hot chocolate, just in time for winter break. Happy reading.

On Friday, December 6, fifth-grade students, along with family members, came together to create "Extreme" Gingerbread Houses. Amidst the gallons of frosting, gingerbread, and pounds of candy, smiles and laughter filled the Commons during this delightful event. A special thank you to Kim Anderson, Ellen Gordan Kamm, and Jamie Gordan Kamm for orchestrating this memorable occasion and making the frosting. Undoubtedly, it was one of the Year's Most Wonderful Events.

During Ms. Norman's reading block, students practiced using their senses to visualize scenes in the story Prince Charming Loses His Bride. As they read, students learned to create vivid mental images by imagining the sensations described in the text: Prince Charming grooming his hair, the princess clicking her heels, and the characters enjoying a picnic while smelling spicy foods and congealed mayonnaise. This exercise helped students connect with the story in a deeper, more imaginative way. It is exciting to see their creativity and comprehension skills continue to grow!

In Mrs. Henning's second-grade class, students engaged in an exciting UFLI (University of Florida Literacy Institute) lesson focused on blending and decoding words with ar, or, and ore. This phonemic awareness activity helped students strengthen their reading skills as they practiced identifying and pronouncing words with these vowel sounds. It has been fun to see their progress and enthusiasm for learning!

In Mrs. Simon’s first grade class, students have been working on the short vowel sound “u” in their phonics lesson. After wrapping up their lesson, they dove into the enchanting book Abuela by Arthur Dorros. The story follows Rosalba and her grandmother, or "Abuela," as they embark on a magical journey, flying high above the bustling streets, vibrant sights, and lively people of New York City sparkling below them. To prepare for this reading adventure, students explored key “power words” in the story, including docked, close, harbor, and unload. Focusing on these words helps students develop vocabulary skills and deepen their comprehension, an approach strongly supported by the science of reading. Research shows that building background knowledge and understanding essential vocabulary before reading can enhance a child’s ability to decode and connect with text meaningfully. Mrs. Simon’s class is excited to continue their literacy journey, one story and power word at a time!

This week, our third-grade students had an engaging and insightful session with our school counselor, Mr. Wimmer. Together, they explored the differences between "rock problems" and "pipe cleaner problems" as part of their social-emotional learning. Through thoughtful discussions, students learned to identify problems that are large, fixed, and unchangeable, like a rock, and those that are smaller, flexible, and solvable, like a pipe cleaner. They also practiced strategies for tackling each type of challenge by using "I" messages for pipe cleaner problems and when to ask an adult to help with rock problems, equipping them with valuable tools for problem-solving both in school and in life.

In November, students at USC enjoyed flashlight reading in the Media Center, an activity that added excitement and creativity to their reading experience. The imaginative setting invited students to connect reading with storytelling and make-believe, sparking their creativity and making the experience both engaging and memorable.

Email: jtaylor@unitedsouthcentral.org
Location: 600 11th Street Southwest, Wells, MN, USA
Phone: 507-553-5810