

Spring
CES Family Engagement Newsletter

Newsletter April 01, 2025* Vol 2, Issue 8
CES Parents
As we approach the Georgia Milestones Assessment, we want to ensure that our students are well-prepared and confident. The Georgia Milestones is a comprehensive summative assessment for students in grades 3 through high school, measuring their understanding of key concepts in language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies.
To support your child’s success, please consider the following:
✅ Create a Supportive Learning Environment:
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Quiet Study Space: Provide a distraction-free area for focused learning.
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Limit Distractions: Reduce screen time and interruptions during study sessions.
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Encouragement & Positive Feedback: Help build confidence and ease test anxiety by praising their efforts.
✅ Attendance is VERY Important!
Please ensure your child:
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Gets a good night’s sleep before testing days.
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Arrives on time and ready to do their best.
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Has a healthy breakfast at home or at school to stay energized.
✅ Practice for the Test!
Your child can become familiar with the online testing format by visiting GAExperienceOnline.com. Click on “Test Practice” to explore the tools and question types they will encounter.
Your support is essential in helping your child succeed! Thank you for your partnership in their education.
Warm regards,
Mrs. Garner
Parent Instructional Coordinator
THANKS, SAGE FOR OUR SWAG!
April 01-ML Parent Workshop 5-6PM
ELT Afterschool
April 02-Play 2 Learn 9:30 – 11am
April 02-Parent Planning Meeting 3:30-4:30PM
April 03-Raising Canes 3-9PM
ELT Afterschool
April 04-Math Carnival During Specials
April 07-11 SPRING BREAK
April 15-Chick-fil-A Spirit Night 5-7PM 3090 Main Street
April 16-Play 2 Learn 9:30-11:00AM
April 17-4th Grade Field Trip
April-18- GMAS Pep Rally
April 21-25 GMAS 3rd, 4th, and 5th Grade
April 22-Kindergarten Transition Meeting 5-6PM
April 25- KONA ICE
April 25-Student Clubs
April 30-Play 2 Learn 9:30-11:00AM
May-02-Kindergarten Registration 9-12 and 4-6
THIS WEEK!
ML PARENT WORKSSHOP ON APRIL 1ST
TITLE 1 PLANNING DOCUMENT REVIEW
Families,
All decisions regarding our Title I Program at Centerville Elementary School are made at our Title I Planning Meetings. These meetings are open to all parents/guardians, community stake holders, teachers and staff. We use the input from our Annual Title I Planning Meeting to set our LSPI Goals, help decide what type of Parent Workshops we offer throughout the school year, how the Title I funds/budget should be spent, what materials should be purchased for the Parent Center and the school. We also revise and approve Title I Documents and analyze data based on our end-of-the-year parent surveys during our meeting. All stakeholders share in the decision making process for the development of the Title I Plan, Budget and Family and Community Engagement Documentation.
Centerville Elementary School's Title I Planning Meeting was held on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. If you were unable to attend the meeting, you still have an opportunity to review all the materials that were shared at the meeting and to complete an input form. The Document Review period will be held from April 3, 2025 – April 15, 2025. Your feedback is critical for our improvement. If you would like to view these documents, please visit the Family Engagement Center at Centerville ES.
COMING SOON!
CHICK-FIL-A SPIRIT NIGHT APRIL 15TH 5PM-7PM
KINDERGARTEN TRANSITION MEETING APRIL 22ND 5:30PM-6:00PM
KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION AT CENTERVILLE ES MAY 2ND
*Please go online today and register you Little Future General*
READY BY 5 (RB5)
Ready By 5 (RB5) is a FREE 8-week program designed for families with children from birth to age 5. This program offers a unique chance for parents and children to learn together in a fun and engaging way, supporting families in being their child’s first and best teachers.
GWINNETT COUNTY PARENT MENTORS PRESENT
GWINNETT COUNTY PARENT MENTORS PRESENT
For All Families of Students Receiving Special Education Services in Gwinnett County Public Schools
Topic:
“Planning for an Engaging Summer Break”
This session is highly recommended for families of students at all levels (elementary, middle, and high school).
It’s hard to believe but it is already time to begin thinking about the summer break. What will your child do
over the summer months? Planning for a fun and fulfilling summer takes thought, time, and preparation. Now
is the time to begin making and solidifying those summer plans, as many options require registration in the
Spring. In this session, we will discuss options such as summer camp, volunteerism, public library programs,
family field trips and more.
Presented by:
Dawn Albanese – Parent Mentor
GCPS Special Education Department
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
10:00am – 11:30am Session - In Person
J. Alvin Wilbanks Instructional Support Center, 437 Old Peachtree Road, NW, Suwanee, GA 30024, Building
200, Central Gwinnett Room 2.111
Registration link for 10:00am session:
https://forms.gle/DfiQ6wSLp32X614Q8
OR
6:00pm – 7:30pm Session – Zoom
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Registration link for 6:00pm session:
https://gcpsk12-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/jQ4LzTO-RIS19CF1Wm-iqw
If you have any questions, please contact Dawn Albanese:
dawn.albanese@gcpsk12.org , (678) 301-7212
LOS PADRES CONSEJEROS DEL CONDADO DE GWINNETT
PRESENTAN
Para TODAS las familias de estudiantes que reciben servicios de Educación Especial, en las Escuelas Públicas
del Condado de Gwinnett (GCPS, por sus siglas en inglés)
Tema:
“Planear unas vacaciones de verano cautivadoras”
Esta sesión es muy recomendable para familias con estudiantes en todos los niveles (primaria,
secundaria intermedia y bachillerato). Es difícil de creer, pero ya es hora de empezar a pensar en
las vacaciones de verano. ¿Qué hará su niño durante los meses de verano? Planear un Verano
divertido y gratificante requiere consideración, tiempo y preparación. Ya que muchas opciones
requieren que se haga inscripción en la primavera, ahora es cuando uno debe comenzar a planificar y
confirmar los planes de verano. En esta sesión hablaremos de opciones como campamentos de verano,
voluntariado, programas de las bibliotecas públicas, excursiones familiares y más.
Presentación a cargo de:
Dawn Albanese – Padre consejero
Departamento de Educación Especial de GCPS
Martes, 11 de marzo de 2025
Sesión presencial de 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
J. Alvin Wilbanks Instructional Support Center, 437 Old Peachtree Road, NW, Suwanee, GA 30024
Building (edificio) 200, Central Gwinnett Room (salón) 2.111
Enlace para inscribirse en la sesión de las 10:00 de la mañana:
https://forms.gle/DfiQ6wSLp32X614Q8
O
Sesión en Zoom de 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Después de inscribirse, usted recibirá por correo electrónico una confirmación con la información para unirse a la reunión
Enlace para inscribirse en la sesión de las 6:00 de la tarde:
https://gcpsk12-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/jQ4LzTO-RIS19CF1Wm-iqw
Si tiene alguna pregunta, por favor comuníquese con Dawn Albanese:
dawn.albanese@gcpsk12.org , (678) 301-7212
Centerville Elementary School Proudly Presents
Family Engagement eTips
Monday, March 31, 2025
Tuesday, April 01, 2025
Wednesday, April 02, 2025
Show your child how to find answers without asking you
Thursday, April 03, 2025
Friday, April 4, 2025
Memory boosters help your child study smart
Only 48% of children in our community start school prepared to learn. Early brain development is a key factor in making sure children in Gwinnett County are ready to thrive in kindergarten and beyond!
A parent is a child's first teacher. Gwinnett Building Babies’ Brains focuses on building awareness around early learning opportunities for families of children ages birth through five.
Children exposed to positive early learning experiences—like reading, singing, and talking with caregivers—are less likely to have academic and behavioral problems in school. They are more likely to be strong readers by 3rd grade and graduate from high school.
This early learning initiative is vital to our community's success, Building Babies' Brains Gwinnett offers a toolkit with resources and opportunities to help enhance brain development in children under the age of 5.
Gwinnett Building Babies’ Brains encourages parents to follow them on social media and check out their website using the information below.
Website: https://buildingbabiesbrains.com/
Facebook: Building Babies’ Brains Gwinnett
Instagram: buildingbabiesbrains.gwinnett
Twitter: @B3_Gwinnett
Play 2 Learn
REGISTERING STUDENTS NOW....
It is a FREE program offered at all Gwinnett elementary schools.
Looking for children ages birth to 5 years to be a part of our Play 2 Learn program. Class is comprised of 20 students enrolled. Please see Mrs. Garner (Family Engagement Center) to register your child.
Our main goal of this program:
- Build the capacity in parents to be their child's first teacher
- Expose children to a high quality school environment
- Provide social opportunities for children
- Increase access to books and resources for children and parents
We meet Wednesday mornings 9:30am - 11:00am
(an adult must stay with child during the class).
Must provide:
- copy of birth certificate
- must reside in Gwinnett County
- two proofs of residency
- identification of enrolling parent
- P2L enrollment form completed
These items must be submitted before your child can start the program.
Our Play 2 Learn@home website is filled with exciting read-alouds, easy ideas for activities at home, and important early learning resources.
Please complete the Georgia Parent Survey
The Georgia Parent Survey is designed to give parents an opportunity to share input about their child's school. The information parents provide by completing the survey will be used as part of the calculation of the school's School Climate Star Rating with the state. Individual data results from the Georgia Parent Survey will not be available to personnel of Gwinnett County Public Schools and will not be posted online.
Parents may complete the survey using a personal computer, smartphone, or tablet. Parents that do not have access to the Internet may contact Brookwood Elementary to arrange to complete the Georgia Parent Survey at the school.
Please click here to complete the survey. We appreciate you taking the time to complete the survey!
Think First and Stay Safe/ Child Lures lessons
Parents, please see important information about the Think First and Stay Safe/ Child Lures lessons taught by our school counselors below:
SEL Character Word Of The Month
What is Courage?
Gather students and play the Courage music video below. Invite students to stand up and sing along. Lead students in learning and repeating the definition of Courage.
Please click the link https://youtu.be/sblbIAfF03gand watch the video.
Reflection
- What did you learn about Courage from the song?
CENTERVILLE'S PARENT INSTRUCTIONAL COORDINATOR
Bio
I am thrilled to introduce myself as your Parent Instructional Coordinator here at Centerville Elementary School. My name is Emily Garner, and I am deeply committed to supporting you and your family in your educational journey. I currently live in the Snellville area. I received my BS degree in Community Health Education from Morris Brown College. I received my MA degree in Early Childhood Education from Central Michigan University. I have worked in Gwinnett County Schools for 16 years. I joined the Centerville family in 2017 as a Special Education Teacher.
As the Parent Instructional Coordinator, my primary goal is to serve as a bridge between our school and our wonderful parent community. I am here to facilitate communication, provide resources, and create opportunities for collaboration that will enhance your child's educational experience.
As your Parent Instructional Coordinator, my goal is to create a welcoming and supportive environment where parents and guardians are empowered to motivate their children in our ever-changing world of learning. I am here to support you; through the resources we have in the Family Engagement Center.
I bring with me a passion for family engagement and a strong belief in the power of partnership between parents, educators, and students. Together, we can create a nurturing and enriching environment where every child can thrive.
I look forward to getting to know each and every one of you, listening to your ideas and concerns, and working together to make our school community even stronger. Please feel free to reach out to me at 678.639.3721 with any questions, suggestions, or if you simply want to connect.
Let us embark on this exciting journey together, dedicated to the success and well-being of our children. I cannot wait to meet you all and build a supportive and collaborative relationship.
Emily Garner
Parent Instructional Coordinator
🌟 Learning Never Ends 🌟
Summer break is almost here, but learning doesn’t have to stop! This time away from school is a wonderful opportunity for children to explore new interests, dive deeper into subjects they love, and unleash their creativity in exciting ways.
Whether it’s through reading books, hands-on projects, educational apps, or summer learning programs, there are countless ways to keep their minds engaged. Encouraging your child to stay curious and creative will help foster a lifelong love of learning.
We hope this newsletter has provided helpful ideas and resources to support summer learning at home. Most importantly, we wish you and your family a fun, safe, and enriching summer! 🌞
🔆 Summer Enrichment Opportunities 🔆
Your child is invited (INVITATION ONLY) to ride the wave
of learning this summer…
June 9–June 27
Summer Learning Support + Enrichment + Achievement
(SEA) program
This free summer program will offer extended learning opportunities to support the grade-level readiness of students who need to meet promotional criteria through an engaging learning environment.
Elementary school students will attend the free Summer Learning SEA program from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and middle school students will attend from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. during the three-week session (June 9–June 27). June 19 is a school holiday. Learn more about the program and registration in the Frequently Asked Questions page.
Meals (breakfast and lunch) are provided for children participating in the SEA program at no cost to families.
GCPS Digital Summer Support
GCPS Digital Summer Support
On the Student Portal, go to Additional Resources to find a link for Digital Summer Support.
GCPS Digital Summer Support
Once on the Digital Summer Support eCLASS page, students and families will find information on the two digital platforms available to support learning over the summer.
GCPS Digital Summer Support
Students will be able to launch their learning, using one of these platforms:
• Amplify offers practice in reading;
• iReady supports mathematics; and
Students do not need to complete work in both platforms. Each platform will provide K–8 students with targeted learning opportunities in reading and/or mathematics, using the student’s answers to determine areas in which they need more help.
These digital tools are a great way to keep students connected and learning at their own pace during the summer!
Students can keep their skills sharp this summer with self-paced, digital support opportunities! Digital summer support will be available to K–8 students from June 6 through July 7 on the Digital Summer Support eCLASS page.
For more information: Digital Summer Support
SUMMER CAMPS COMING SOON!
SUMMER READING SKILLS CAMP
Summer Reading Skills is designed to improve reading and study skills, and to stimulate greater interest in reading.
Please contact Tiffany Gilbert @ 1-888-202-5114 with any questions.
Camp Warrior King Summer Camp
CES Families,
We are thrilled to announce our exciting partnership with Camp Warrior King Summer Camp at Zoar Church for the upcoming summer! This camp offers a fantastic opportunity for your children to experience fun, adventure, and personal growth.
Camp Dates:
May 27th - July 25th
For more information and to register, please scan the attached QR Code.
ONE SOURCE SUMMER CAMP
Rising 6th Grade Summer Reading List📖
As our fifth grade students prepare to transition to middle school, let's start the summer off with reading! At Shiloh Middle School, rising 6th grade students are encouraged to read at least 1 book over the summer. When they return to school, they will complete a variety of writing tasks and activities related to their reading selection.