Cragin Community Update
August 2024
Welcome Cragin community!
I would like to welcome you to the 2024-2025 school year! I am excited to return for a third year as the principal of our fantastic school. I look forward to working together to continue Cragin’s tradition in creating a very caring, collaborative, and dedicated community that support each other and our mission of creating well rounded educated cougars. As your principal, I am committed to building relationships and working together with you. I strive to always be available, be transparent when communicating and look forward to meeting each one of you.
Principal
Alexander Rodriguez
Welcome back to school!
Welcome back to school, Cragin Cougars! We’re thrilled to have you back with us! On July 31st, we hosted our Meet the Teacher event, giving families the opportunity to meet their students' teachers and explore their classrooms. Our campus was decked out with fantastic decorations to boost school spirit, and we’re grateful to everyone who helped bring it all to life!
Open House / Title 1 Meeting
What a great way to Kick off the school year! We had a successful Meet the Teacher and Open House / Title 1 Meeting. It was so nice to talk to families and thank you to those who stopped by and introduced themselves. We also hosted a game of interactive BINGO game in which students and parents got to locate various places around campus for a chance to spin the wheel for a prize! Parents were also entered in a Raffle when they filled out a survey! What a Win! Thank you for your participation!
Stories that Soar Assembly
We recently held an exciting and interactive Stories that Soar Assembly, where students have the opportunity to craft their own unique stories. They then can place their creations into the Magic Box, from which stories will be selected to be transformed into live performances. What a wonderful way for students to see their imaginative tales come to life on stage! September 13th will be the last day for students to participate in placing your great stories into the Magic Box. The Magic Box is placed in front of the Office. Don't miss out!
Kinder Mini Morning Olympic Race
As we wrap up August, we want to highlight some of the exciting things happening on campus! Our Kindergarteners had an absolute blast participating in a mini track race right before the bell rang. It was a delightful and energetic way to start the day!
Specials!
Specials began the week of the 12th, and students have since started visiting the library to check out books. It’s great to see them diving into reading and exploring new stories! They also began attending the counselor’s classroom for Character Strong classes, and OMA classes are now underway as well! It’s been a busy and exciting start to the term, with plenty of opportunities for learning and growth.
Meet Ms. Karen Hundersmarck
Hi! I took these few days to introduce myself to students and what my role is. However, I think it is important for you to also know who I am.
A little about me:
I’m Ms. Karen and I am so excited to be here with you all this year. I have a MA in Developmental Psychology and currently completing my Clinical Licensure Program. I have been in the mental health field for over ten years, and this is my fourth year in a school setting. I am looking forward to incorporating my experience in our Character Strong curriculum. My hope is to create a welcoming, inclusive, safe environment for all. One that empowers children to be confident, successful, and lifelong learners. I was born and raised in Boston, MA and have been in Tucson for about seven years. I have three younger sisters and a younger brother. When I am not at Cragin, I spend my time with my family exploring new areas for our son to enjoy. Additionally, my wife and I enjoy supporting local businesses and using our Tucson Foodie membership to try new restaurants.
What Else
In addition to Character Strong, I will be providing support during transitional times (pick up/drop off, lunch, recess etc.) In addition to Character Strong, I will be providing support during transitional times (pick up/drop off, lunch, recess etc.)
As the year takes off, I will be conducting targeted small groups to help support students with peer relations, effective communication, self-esteem, advocacy, etc.
Reminders
What Is Said In Here, Stays In Here
Unless
-Someone is hurting you
-You want to hurt someone else
-You want to hurt yourself
-You give me permission to share
Upcoming
I will begin Character Strong Lessons with students 8/12 as Follows:
Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Meet Ms. Karina Acuña
Hello Cragin Families, my name is Karina E. Acuña and I am delighted and excited to serve as the Community Liaison here at Cragin Elementary.
I’ve enjoyed these first weeks of school so far as I get to talk to the kids, know the staff and parents.
I also want to thank each one of you for welcoming me to this wonderful school. I am excited and I am fully committed to support and assist the school, families and students with resources, services and basic needs.
My goal is also to encourage parents and community members to be more engaged at our site
by volunteering at our school activities and be part of our community I’ve seen a diverse community, and I am excited to serve but we cannot do this alone.
Join our Cafecito / Coffee talks with Mr. Rodriguez once a month in Room 5.
I’ll be sending emails, flyers and information to everyone.
Yo Hablo Español
Room 5
Coupon Book Fundraiser
This is our first fundraiser for the year. Your child might have brought home a packet about this. This starts September 3rd - September 24th. You can start selling starting on the 3rd. These are very similar to the Entertainment books back in the day. They are a small book that has tons of coupons to different restaurants, businesses, and entertainment. These books are $25 each. However, if you sell 5 books, then you get 1 FREE!!! Relatives in other states can even buy one in their area. The whole family can get one. If you need help, just ask PTO President Liz Niemeyer.
