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Eagle Flyer
March 14, 2024
Important Dates
March 14-15
Book Swap: book collection during morning drop-off
March 20
Rising 6th Grade Parent Night: 6pm (Virtual Meeting - see more information below)
March 25-29
Staff Appreciation Week
April 1-5
Spring Break : No School
April 17
Kindergarten Roundup 8-10am
Newsletter Translation
To view this newsletter in another language, open it in a browser and click the translate button at the top or on the right.
New Playground!
We're delighted to share the fantastic news that the new play structure has been successfully installed on our upper field! A heartfelt thank you goes out to our dedicated PTA and the generous support of the YMCA, whose contributions made this project a reality.
The PTA played a pivotal role in not only securing funding but also in meticulously planning the space and overseeing the installation process. While the structure stands ready for play, we prioritize safety and will be laying down mulch before allowing students to enjoy it fully. Rest assured, this final step will be completed early next week, and our eager students will soon have the chance to experience the excitement firsthand.
To each and every member of our PTA, we extend a special thank you. Your membership and contributions have provided our students with a much-needed playground that will undoubtedly enrich their school experience.
The Book Swap is Here!
For every 2 books donated, students will receive 1 book buck coupon to choose a "new-to-them" book. We will be collecting gently-used books Thursday, March 14 and Friday, March 15 as students arrive at school. The students will select their books the following week during lunch on the day assigned to their grade. Students can bring in as many books as he/she likes, but the maximum number of book bucks a student can earn is 5.
If you have questions or are interested in volunteering for book collections, organizing/set-up or the swap in the cafeteria please e-mail Amanda Wagman at AmandaWagman@gmail.com or sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090B44A4A92AAA8-48122206-2024
Spread the Word : Kindergarten Roundup!
Harmony at River Eves With OkCello
- Shared article from Roswell Cultural Arts about OkCello's visit to REES on February 28
In the heart of River Eves Elementary School, anticipation buzzed through the halls and lunchroom like a current of electricity on Wednesday, February 28th. Students chattered excitedly, their youthful energy filling the air as they gathered in the school's lunch room. Today was no ordinary day; it was a day filled with music, inspiration, and the promise of something extraordinary. As the students filed in and settled, an indescribable roar of anticipation fell over the room. Knowing a special guests they have been listening to in music class, and learned about would be joining them momentarily.
From the stage, Okorie “OkCello” Johnson, whose fusion of classical cello and modern beats transcended boundaries and captivated the audience. The first notes resonated through the room, filling every corner with rich, melodic tones. The students leaned in, their eyes wide with wonder as they were transported by the music. Barely able to sit still, as they started clapping along.
OkCello's performance was not just a display of musical talent; it was a journey through soundscapes, a narrative woven with emotion and passion. With each stroke of the bow and each beat of his hands, he painted vivid pictures in the minds of the children.
As the performance reached its crescendo, the students erupted into applause, their cheers echoing off the walls. OkCello bowed graciously, his smile radiant with the knowledge that he had touched the hearts of everyone in the room.
But the impact of OkCello's performance extended far beyond the applause and cheers. It planted seeds of inspiration in the minds of the students, igniting a passion for music and creativity that would stay with them long after the final notes faded away.
A handful of students were able to walk up and ask OkCello a variety of questions, like “What made you choose the cello?” and “what was the first song you learn to play?” Creating a face to face opportunity with a local award winning artist. Not something school children get to experience every day.
As the students filed out of the assembly hall, their hearts were full, their spirits lifted by the magic of OkCello's music. And in that moment, River Eves Elementary School was not just a place of learning—it was a sanctuary of harmony and inspiration, where dreams took flight on the wings of music. Students leaving for the day were running by thanking OkCello, and some had a chance to stop, ask him more questions, and even get autographs.
This day was only made possible by the incredible partnership the City of Roswell and Roswell Roots has cultivated through the Inspired exhibit, which features works from Fulton County Schools students across the City of Roswell in honor of Black History Month. This year's exhibit was inspired by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History's (ASLAH) theme of "African Americans in the Arts." Kelsey Thornburgh the Art Educator at River Eves saw this as an opportunity to highlight a local metro-Atlanta artist that Roswell is all too familiar with. Okorie “OkCello” Johnson.
The honor Ms. Thornburgh and the students of River Eves created through this incredible mural was shown to Johnson, who was absolutely blown away. His uncanny features and cello are being displayed at Roswell City Hall next to the likes of Ertha Kitt, Ray Charles, Maya Angelou, and so many more notable historic and nationally accredited figures. He was truly blown away by the honor, and felt inspired to give back. In the moment of seeing the piece, Johnson immediately asked the City of Roswell if they could help get him in touch with River Eves, and offer the students a free concert.
“We hope that this helps set a precedence for future connections through the partnership Inspired and Roswell Roots aims to create. We are forever grateful to Okorie Johnson for bringing his talents to Roswell, time and time again. But more importantly, for taking time out of his busy schedule to visit and hopefully inspire the youth of Roswell to find their own creative paths through the arts. A special thank you to River Eves Elementary, Principal Gowin, and Ms. T (Thornburgh) for allowing us to be a part of such a remarkable opportunity together.”
-Corinne Sutherlin, Roswell Cultural Arts Supervisor
Think First & Stay Safe Program
Dear Parents and/or Guardians:
We all share a common and critical goal for our children to be safe and protected from all things harmful. In support of this goal, elementary students in Fulton County Schools will soon receive annual lessons designed to increase their personal safety & protection. The Think First & Stay Safe™ program is a research-based program that teaches specific personal safety education by way of interactive classroom lessons, classroom posters, role-plays and corresponding activities. Think First & Stay Safe™ enables students to take an active and necessary role in protecting themselves from harassment, abduction, bullying, exploitation, and various forms of abuse (physical, sexual, emotional). The Health Advisory Committee reviewed and approved this program and selected components will be implemented as part of the elementary curriculum.
Due to the importance and sensitivity of this topic, you are being informed that this material will be presented to your child's class on March 21st of the 2023-2024 school year. Please contact your child's School Counselor, Kiara Exum at (470) 254-9981 or exumk@fultonschools.org if you have any questions. The materials can be made available for preview if needed. Think First & Stay Safe™ prevention lessons will be implemented for all Fulton County Schools K-5 students, unless an opt-out form is returned.
You can also learn more about the detailed lesson plans and research behind this program at www.childluresprevention.com. Please be aware that more information is provided on the website than is used in Fulton County Schools. The plan for Fulton includes key concepts taught at all grades; each grade reviews what was learned in the previous grade(s) and then builds upon that knowledge.
Key Concepts:
- You can use your built-in computer and make safe choices.
- People are like the weather. Most are safe, but they can change.
- Lures are tricks used to get children away from safe adults and safe places.
- Laws help protect children and there are adults who can help you.
- Your instincts help keep you safe.
- A stranger is someone you don’t know.
- Someone may even use threats to trick you.
- No one can take away your dignity.
If you prefer that your child NOT participate in the program, please return this form or send an email as soon as possible. Unless written OPT-OUT documentation is received by 3/20/2024 your child will be a participant in the Think First & Stay Safe™ program.
As always, our counselor is available to discuss any questions you may have about the Think First & Stay Safe™ curriculum.
Sincerely,
Kiara Exum
Annual Parent Perception Survey
As of today, we have only had 16.63% of our parents take the survey. Our goal is to have at least 50% of parents take the survey. Please share your opinion. It only takes a few minutes of your time.
At Fulton County Schools, we truly value the feedback from our parents about their experiences with the district. That is why I encourage all parents to take the Annual Parent Perception Survey. This survey allows parents the opportunity to tell us what they think about their student’s schools and the district. While we always make it a priority to listen to our parents, this survey affords us another opportunity to receive your thoughts and opinions.
The survey is anonymous and confidential. Please complete one survey per school where you have one or more students enrolled. The survey will remain open from Monday, February 12 through Friday, March 15.
The Annual Perception Survey is currently available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, Hindi, and Punjabi. If you or your family would like to take it in a language that is not listed, please email your child’s principal.
The parent FAQ is now available in:
- English FAQ o Spanish FAQ
- Chinese (Simplified) FAQ
- Korean FAQ
- Hindi FAQ
- Punjabi FAQ
To access the parent survey, click https://www.fultonschools.org/annualparentsurvey or scan the QR code with a smartphone. Thank you in advance for making your voice heard!
Relationships Matter!
- Mike Looney, Superintendent of Fulton County Schools
Staff Appreciation Week 2024
The PTA Hospitality Committee is excited to celebrate River Eves’ All-Star Staff the week of March 25-29!
Our Staff Appreciation Week is always a success thanks to the generous donations from our River Eves families. Breakfast, catered lunch from The Varsity and Waffle House, favorite snacks and gift cards of thanks are all planned for this year. Let’s show our staff how much we appreciate all they do each day for our students!
Click HERE to see how you can contribute!
Thank you for your continued support of the teachers and staff at River Eves!
Rising 6th Grade Parent Virtual Meeting- March 20
Holcomb Bridge Middle School will be hosting a VIRTUAL MEETING for parents of rising 6th graders on Wednesday, March 20th at 6:00 pm. Please click on the attachment below for more information on how to join the meeting.
Optional School Tours will be offered on March 27th at 9:00 am and 4:30 pm. To register, please click on the attachment below and scan the QR code at the bottom of the page..
Former River Eves Students are Valedictorian and Salutatorian of CHS
Congratulations to Centennial High School's Class of 2024 Salutatorian, Amy Puri (left) and Valedictorian, Cindy Zheng (right)! Both are former River Eves students!
Congratulations To Our Third Grade Chess Team!
Antoine, Panayiotis, Tripp, Inman and Theo represented River Eves last weekend in the Metro Atlanta K-8 Team State Qualifier Chess Tournament. They did a great job and came in 8th place out of 29 teams in their division. Well done, gentlemen!
2023-2024 Yearbooks - Order Today!
Lost and Found Reminder
Don’t miss out on the best moments of the school year.
Click HERE to purchase your yearbook.
March 15th is the deadline to order!!!!
School Governance Council Candidacy
Attendance Matters ALL DAY, EVERY DAY
Please keep your child home if they are feeling sick (vomiting or running a fever), but don’t forget to email your child’s teacher to inform of their absence/provide a doctor’s note. If your child is missing a lot of school due to illness, check with the teacher about any work that needs to be completed. Also, check in with your child to ensure they're caught up on missed assignments, and to see if they need assistance and/or support to complete them. Reach out to your child's teacher for assistance when necessary.
Help Your Child Succeed in School: Build the Habit of Good Attendance! School success goes hand in hand with good attendance!
- Kasey Vermilya, LMSW, School Social Worker
Join and Support the River Eves PTA!
PTA is a wonderful way to get involved at school. Research shows that students do better in school when their family is involved. There are many ways to share your time and talents. It’s also an excellent way to meet people in our extended school family and receive exclusive access to the River Eves Directory.
Click HERE to Join!
Questions about PTA? Check out our website HERE…Fridays are Spirit Days!
Let's show our school spirit!! Every Friday is Spirit Day! Students are welcome to wear school colors on Fridays and there are some awesome spirit wear options that can be purchased online. Just click on the following link and Go Eagles! MemberHub
Centennial Knights Theatre Presents: 9 to 5
First show is tonight at 7pm!
March 14 & 15 at 7pm
March 16 at 2pm
Please come out for a fun show! Support the Centennial Knights Players Theatre program, including many former River Eves student cast members! Shows are March 14-16!
Buy your tickets here: https://search.seatyourself.biz/webstore/accounts/centennialga/buy-tix?landingMessageSeen=true
Johns Creek Volleyball Camp
Roswell Junior Hornets Volleyball Camp
The Link : Student & Family Engagement Center
Taekwondo Generations
Who Do I Contact for Questions/Concerns?
If you have questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team. The first point of contact will always be your child's teacher.
- Allyson Hewett/Jessie Ivey - Instructional Support Teachers (IST) – Ms. Hewett coordinates programs and service delivery for special education students, as well as the coordination of educational testing for students who are referred for special education services. Parents with questions about the special education process should contact the IST for information. hewettad@fultonschools.org; iveyj@fultonschools.org
- Laura Lavoie - Assistant Principal - Ms. Lavoie oversees student information, grading, standardized testing & discipline. lavoiel@fultonschools.org
- Kiara Exum - School Counselor - Ms. Exum works with school personnel to foster a positive learning environment for children. She assists parents in understanding children and in developing positive attitudes, techniques, and strategies essential for constructive child rearing. Ms. Exum assists parents and children in obtaining special school and/or community services and serves as the 504 chairperson. exumk@fultonschools.org
- Ginny Long - Curriculum Support Teacher (CST) Ms. Long supports parents with questions involving curriculum, class placement, and diagnostic placement assessments. Ms. Long also supports teachers to improve the quality of teaching and learning in science and math. longg@fultonschools.org
- Stacy Storr – Student Support Team Chair and Upper Grades Literacy Coach – Ms. Storr leads the Multi-tiered System of Supports (MTSS) team in using the problem-solving model to identify appropriate interventions to ensure every learner has the opportunity to succeed. Ms. Storr also works with teachers to improve the quality of teaching and learning in reading and language arts and social studies. storrSB@fultonschools.org
- Brittany Brewer – Lower Grades Literacy Coach – Ms. Brewer works with teachers and students to improve the quality of teaching and student learning in reading and language arts. BrewerB3@fultonschools.org
- Ramona Fair – Data Clerk – Ms. Fair provides assistance and support in the maintenance structure and processing of data necessary to facilitate proper scheduling, updating, and monitoring of student records. She is responsible for ensuing attendance, scheduling, and student record data within infinite campus is accurate. She is also responsible for new registration and withdrawals. FairR1@fultonschools.org
- Kasey Vermilya – School Social Worker – Ms. Vermilya serves as the liaison between the school, home, and community to support attendance, social-emotional, and academic needs of students. She also conducts student/family assessments to determine barriers in accessing and engaging in the educational environment to help identify ways to best support students and families. vermilyak1@fultonschools.org
- If further assistance is still needed, contact the Principal, Susan Gowin. gowins@fultonschools.org