McKinley Dragon Tales
End of the Year 2024
Principal's Corner
Thank you, McKinley community, for yet another incredible school year filled with laughter, learning, and growth. Together, we've shared unforgettable moments, faced challenges, and emerged stronger. As we bid farewell to this academic journey, let's cherish the memories we've created and the knowledge we've gained. May your summer be filled with relaxation and joy, and I look forward to welcoming you all back in the fall for another year of discovery and achievement.
Mr. Daniel Oldham, Principal
Important Dates
9/3/24: First Day of School for 2024-2025 School year
Just for Fun
š There's a doctor in the house! š Let's give a round of applause to our incredible school counselor, Mr. Johnson, who has just earned his doctoral degree! From now on, it's "Dr. J" to all of us. ššØāš We couldn't be more proud of Dr. J's amazing accomplishment, and we're incredibly fortunate to have him as a part of our McKinley team. Congratulations, Dr. J ā you're a shining example of dedication and achievement! šš
Math Olympiad and Continental Math Winners
Congratulations to the Math Olympiad and Continental Math winners! It's incredible to see students excel in their mathematical pursuits and demonstrate such dedication to their goals. Being honored at the Board Meeting is a testament to their hard work and achievements, and they've certainly done McKinley proud. Keep up the fantastic work, and continue to inspire others with your mathematical talents!
Spring Concert
The Spring Concert was a fantastic success! It's always heartwarming to see students showcase their talents after putting in so much effort and practice. Hats off to Mr. Frueh and Mr. Ford for their musical expertise and support of the arts, and of course, to the parents for their dedication in helping their children practice at home. It truly takes a village to make such events memorable. We know everyone involved, from the students to the audience, had a wonderful time!
Special Olympics
McKinley celebrated the vibrant spirit and accomplishments of our students at the Spring Autism Olympic event! Filled with joyous camaraderie, students engaged in exciting activities, creating cherished memories with our dedicated staff, proud parents, and fellow students. From holding the illustrious Olympic torch to capturing triumphant moments on the podium, it was a day brimming with pride, inclusion, and boundless enthusiasm.
McKinley Spring Fair
š The Spring Fair at McKinley was an absolute hit, bringing together our vibrant community for a day filled with joy and excitement! Despite having to move to the rain date, the event proved to be a resounding success, thanks to the incredible efforts of our PTO and dedicated parents who worked tirelessly to ensure everything ran smoothly. From the lively bounce area to thrilling games run by high school volunteers, there was no shortage of entertainment for kids and adults alike. The raffle prizes were nothing short of spectacular, adding an extra element of anticipation to the festivities, and winners went home with beautiful rewards. Food trucks lined up to tantalize taste buds and our talented DJ kept the energy high throughout the evening. Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to making it a memorable day. Here's to many more joyful gatherings in the future! š¶šš¤¹āāļø
The Grad Walk
Come one, come all to McKinley Elementary's heartwarming event: "The Grad Walk"! Picture this: our former students, all grown up in their cap and gowns, walking down the halls they once roamed. Our current kiddos can't believe their eyes! They cheer, high-five, and grin from ear to ear as they see these big kids they will one day become. Let's give a big "Hip-Hip-Hooray" to the Class of 23-24 as they spread their wings and fly into the future!
5th Grade Promotion
š It's time to celebrate our amazing 5th graders as they spread their wings and soar into middle school. Congratulations to the Class of 23-24 on this monumental achievement! Remember, McKinley will always be your home, and you'll forever be part of our dragon family and your handprints will always mark our walls. As you journey into the next chapter of your lives, carry with you the spirit of McKinley and let your HEART shine bright in everything you do. Best wishes on your new adventure! šš
5th Grade Picnic
Imagine a sunny day at Alverthorpe Park, where giggles and fun filled the air as our fifth graders gathered for their yearly class picnic. With games to play, lunches to share, and talks about summer adventures and middle school, there wasn't a dull moment in sight! As they soaked in the sunshine and enjoyed each other's company, new friendships bloomed, and unforgettable memories were created. It's moments like these that remind us why our school traditions are so special and why our students are the heart of our community!
Field Day
Field Day at McKinley was an absolute blast! Thanks to the incredible efforts of Mrs. Olinger, our amazing gym teacher, along with the invaluable support of high school volunteers who tirelessly set up, ran games, and helped with cleanup, the day was a resounding success. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated PTO and parent volunteers whose hard work and enthusiasm made everything possible. With perfect weather adding to the excitement, students reveled in a day filled with laughter, friendly competition, and unforgettable memories. Field Day truly showcased the spirit of community and fun that defines our school.
McKinley Raffle
McKinley's final raffle of the year was a roaring success! Throughout the year, students demonstrated their exemplary HEART behavior, earning coveted dragon tickets for their efforts. As anticipation mounted, excitement filled the air as the raffle drew near. We hope all our students enjoyed the festivities, with prizes galore and smiles all around. A heartfelt thank you goes out to our dedicated teachers who generously raffled off their time to spend special moments with our students, making this event even more memorable. Here's to another year of fostering positivity and camaraderie at McKinley!
Pledge of Character
Happy Retirement šš
Wishing a heartfelt farewell and happy retirement to three beloved members of the McKinley family! Ms. Stearns, your dedication and passion as our cherished 2nd-grade teacher have touched the lives of countless students, leaving an indelible mark on our school community. Ms. Bauer, your nurturing care and unwavering support as our school nurse have kept us healthy and safe, earning our deepest gratitude. And to Ms. Jung, your tireless commitment as a paraprofessional, providing invaluable support to our students, has made a lasting impact on their lives. Thank you for your years of service and dedication to McKinley and the district. You will be dearly missed, and we hope your retirement is filled with joy, relaxation, and new adventures. Books have been dedicated in your honor to our school library so your years of service will always be remembered! Cheers to you all!
Have a GREAT summer, McKinley! šš
McKinley HEART
Schoolwide Positive Behavioral Intervention and Support (SPWBIS) / HEART at McKinley is a program to promote and maximize academic achievement and behavioral competence. As part of the SWPBIS program, we have several clear rules for the behavior we expect in all areas of our school (e.g. classroom, hallways, playground, cafeteria, gymnasium, etc.). We explicitly teach our students our expectations of Honesty, Excellence, Awareness, Respect, and Tolerance. We will also reward them frequently with positive notes and prizes for their great behavior. You will be able to ask your child, What are the rules in your school? How do you follow those rules? What happens when a teacher sees you following the rules?
Basic Information
SCHOOL HOURS
Arrival 8:30-8:50 AM
Dismissal 3:20 PM
The school campus (including fields and playgrounds) is closed to the general public during school hours.
If a child is absent, parents must report it. An absence can be submitted on Skyward (see directions linked at the bottom of this newsletter) in advance of the date for appointments, or can be submitted on the day of the absence. Submitting an absence on Skyward is the recommended way of alerting the school of your childās absence and removes the need for you to call the Child Check line.
If you do not report your childās absence on Skyward, you must contact the Child Check phone or email line prior to 8:30 AM on the day of the absence: 215-663-0430 option#2. Please provide the following information: Childās name, your name, teacherās name, date(s) of absence, and the reason for the absence. Note: āVacationā is not considered an excused absence in Abington School District, as per the districtās attendance policy.
Families can retrieve transportation information via Skyward.
Log into the Skyward information system using your assigned login name and password. You may need to click āOpen Family Accessā after logging in.
Select the āBusingā tab on the left-hand side as shown below. Your studentās busing information will be shown on the right-hand side.
During the first few weeks, expect bus schedules to fluctuate as everyone adjusts to the new bus routes. If your concern is about the location of a bus stop or driver, you will need to contact the Abington Transportation Department at 215-884-0421. If your child is experiencing a problem with other students, please contact our Asst. Principal, Ms. Corbett.
SUPPLIES AND MATERIALS
Suggested supply lists are posted on ASDās Family Resources page. Students are encouraged to bring a water bottle, and we have water refilling stations in the building. Cell phones are not necessary, but students who bring cell phones to school must keep the phones off and in their backpack throughout the school day.
K-2 Students Only: Please consider (optional) sending in a labeled bag with a spare set of clothing including a shirt, underwear, pants, and socks in the event of an emergency.
MEDICINE
The administration of medicine to students by the nurse may be authorized only in emergency cases and only upon the completion and submission of the Medication Form as well as documentation from the doctor. All medicines must come to school in the original container and be kept in the nurseās office. It is the parentsā responsibility to bring medication to school. No medication should be sent into school with a student.
MEDICAL INSURANCE
Parents and guardians have the option to purchase private student accident medical insurance. Please inquire with the Business Office at 215-881-2541 to obtain a brochure regarding the available coverage and enrollment/purchase information.
During the day, all exterior doors are locked, and everyone enters via the main entrance. To maintain building safety, a limited number of essential visitors will be allowed. Visitors must present a photo ID or wear an ASD-issued volunteer badge. Parents and guardians interested in volunteering at the school will need to obtain volunteer certifications in order to be approved to volunteer.