Happy first Sunday in December, Harris Park families!
It’s hard to believe how quickly this year is flying by. As we head into the final month of 2024 and prepare for the new year, I’d like to share a few updates and reminders with you.
Our students and staff have achieved so much this year! We continue to hold high expectations for academic success while encouraging our students to develop resilience and perseverance. Learning is hard work, but it’s also rewarding. We’re so proud to see our students taking on challenges with grit and determination, meeting and exceeding expectations along the way. These character traits will serve them well throughout their lives.
Tomorrow, December 2nd, is an early release day. School will end at 1:40. There is no after school programming other than for those students already enrolled and attending Scholars Unlimited. All students must be picked up by no later than 1:50. Our next early release date is December 16th.
As a reminder, supervision and entry to Harris Park begin at 7:30 AM. Students may be dropped off between 7:30 and 7:40 AM, either at the front or back of the school. Our school day runs from 7:35 AM to 2:50 PM. Please make every effort to arrive on time, as the state considers tardiness equivalent to an unexcused absence. Punctuality is also an essential life skill, and we appreciate all you do to instill these invaluable habits in your children. Thank you for your continued support!
We’re excited to host a Holiday Shop in the library on December 3rd, 4th, and 5th from 3:15 PM to 5:30 PM. This is a great opportunity for students to shop for affordable gifts while practicing math and money skills!To make the experience smooth:
- Please place all money in a sealed envelope labeled with your child's name.
- If your child has permission to purchase gifts for other students, kindly list those students' names on the envelope and include your signature to indicate approval.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Our December PTA meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, December 10th, from 4:00 PM to 4:45 PM in the library. If you’re interested in joining, please email Laurie Perila at lperila@wps.org.
Our winter holiday break is December 23 through January 6 with students returning to school on Tuesday, January 7th.
Over the winter break, I encourage you to spend some time reading with your children. Cozy up with a book and some hot cocoa—it’s a perfect way to connect and foster a love of reading. Ask questions like, “What do you think will happen next?” or “Which character do you relate to and why?” These conversations help build comprehension and critical thinking skills.
Here are a few additional activities to keep young minds engaged during the holidays:
- Have your child write a grocery list, sounding out words as they go.
- Practice adding the prices of two or more items while shopping.
- Estimate total costs and compare with the actual price.
- Let your child measure ingredients while baking or cooking.
- Write thank-you notes for holiday gifts.
- Play math games with cards or practice reading signs and labels during errands.
These small activities can make a big difference in keeping their skills sharp while making fun holiday memories.
Thank you for your continued partnership in your child’s education—we are so grateful for the amazing families in our community.
Love,
Mrs. Mills (Richey)
Monday, December 2
- 7:35-1:40 Early Release Day, student pick up at 1:40 PM
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, December 3, 4, & 5
- 3:00-5:15 Holiday Gift Shop in the library
- Place all money in a sealed envelope labeled with your child's name.
- If your child has permission to purchase gifts for other students, kindly list
Tuesday, December 10
- 4:00-4:45 PTA Meeting in our Harris Park Library, email lperila@wps.org for information
Monday, December 16
- 7:35-1:40 Early Release Day, student pick up at 1:40 PM
Monday through Friday, December 16-20
- Spirit Days!
- Monday - Mittens Monday - wear winter hats, scarves, and gloves...or mittens
- Tuesday - Twinkle Tuesday - bright colors, holiday lights, garland, festive jewelry, etc.
- Wednesday - Wacky Sweater Wednesday - wear fun, silly, unique, festive, etc. sweaters
- Thursday - Thermal Thursday - wear your favorite flannel
- Friday - Snug As a Bug In a Rug Friday - wear school appropriate PJs and bring a blanket
Monday, December 23 through Monday, January 6
- No School, Winter Holiday
Tuesday, January 7
- Students return from Winter Holiday
Moved? New Phone Number? Keep the Harris Park Team Updated!
Please be sure that we have current phone numbers and email addresses for you. The best way to update your contact information is through the Parent Portal in Infinite Campus. If you need assistance with your Parent Portal, please call 303-428-1721. We can provide you with your user name and reset your password for you.
