Aviator Update #11

Dear Duke Families,

This week is extra special for a few reasons.

• First, tomorrow starts the 2nd marking period! Can you believe we are already a quarter of the way through the school year?
• Second, we’re celebrating Red Ribbon Week, where we focus on the importance of healthy living (and drug/alcohol prevention). Let’s work together to promote healthy, safe choices for our students! Tomorrow's theme is for Aviators to wear black and orange to school, and we can't wait to see their Halloween costumes at our PTA's Trunk or Treat Monday evening from 4:30-6.
• Third, our staff is very excited to perform the "MASKED DANCER" Extravaganza for our students on Friday, November 1st as a token of our appreciation for their efforts in our 2024 Boosterthon Fundraiser. It will be a great way to end a fun-filled week.

Katie Kortokrax, Principal

Zach Adams, Assistance Principal

• Oct. 25-31- Red Ribbon Spirit Week
• Mon., Oct 28 - PTA Fall Fest & Trunk or Treat
• Tues., Nov 5 - No School, Election Day
• Wed., Nov 6 - Report Card Distribution
• Thurs., Nov 7 - Veterans Appreciation Event
• Thurs., Nov 7 - 2nd Grade Veterans Day Performance @ 9AM (2nd grade families and Service Members invited)
• Fri., Nov 8 - Two Hour Early Release
• Mon., Nov 11 - Veterans Day, No School

Fridays are School Spirit Days

Wear Red, White and/or Blue or an CWFDES Shirt!

We’re aware of the recent drop in attendance due to illnesses affecting our students. Health always comes first, and we urge you to keep children home when they’re unwell to support their recovery and to protect our community.

At the same time, every day counts in their learning journey! When your child is feeling well, their presence in school is VITAL for growth, connection, and academic progress. Let’s work together to ensure every student thrives by staying engaged and healthy.

The October Attendance Challenge ends on Thursday. Kindergarten has the lead but 5th grade is within reach...

Check our Nutrislice Webpage to:

• View Helpful nutrition info
• Download our FREE mobile app!
• Print menus

• Monday, October 21
• Tuesday, October 22
• Wednesday, October 23
• Thursday, October 24
• Friday, October 25

As we approach the cooler months, nighttime temperatures have dropped significantly, which means our buildings may feel quite cool in the mornings, even though we're not yet ready to turn on the boilers and switch to heat. Given these fluctuating temperatures over the coming weeks, we encourage everyone to dress appropriately for the weather. Layering is recommended to ensure comfort throughout both the warmer and cooler parts of the day.

Once the forecast indicates that nighttime temperatures will consistently fall below 45 degrees and daytime temperatures remain below 55 degrees, we will begin the two-day process of transitioning our school climate control systems from cooling mode to heating mode for the rest of the season. This change typically occurs by October 15th each year; however, we may postpone this switch if extended forecasts suggest a streak of warm weather ahead.

There are so many fantastic things happening in our efforts to support SMCPS students with disabilities. Please use this survey to share your praise, story, or news about successes in your school or department!

Within the Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) is the Google Workspace for Education Additional Services Agreement. In order for students to have access to "additional services," the form granting your student access must be completed.

Captain Walter Francis Duke Elementary

Ms. Katie Kortokrax, Principal

Mr. Zach Adams, Assistant Principal

We welcome your questions and inquiries. Please call 240-309-4658, refer to the SMCPS Website, or our CWFDES website for additional information.

Website: https://schools.smcps.org/cwfdes/
Location: 23595 Hayden Farm Lane, Leonardtown, MD 20650
Phone: (240) 309-4658
Twitter X: @CWFDES_SMCPS