Cougar Connection
A link between home and school
THANK YOU FOR PRACTICING PATIENCE, POSITIVITY, & KINDNESS
Volume 2, Issue 4
Back to School Night
Parents/Guardians are strongly encouraged to attend Back to School Night on Thursday, August 22nd. This is an informational event for parents only. It is an opportunity for you to sit in your child's seat in the classroom and listen to a 25 minute presentation from the teacher. You will learn about grade level curriculum, classroom expectations, and how to help your child at home.
Thursday, August 22nd
5:15 p.m. - 5:45 p.m. 5th Grade Camp presentation in the MPR
5:45 p.m. - 6:10 p.m. Presentations in 3rd-5th grade classrooms
6:15 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Welcome from Principal Angelo
6:35 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Presentations in TK-2nd grade classrooms
7:15 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Teacher Debrief in the Office
Most presentations will allow for some Q&A time. If you have questions/concerns specific to your child please make an appointment with your child's teacher.
Principal's Message
We’ve had a wonderful first week back at school, and I’m thrilled to share that our students are settling in beautifully! The energy and excitement in the hallways have been contagious as our teachers and students begin building strong, supportive classroom communities.
This week, our focus has been on reviewing expectations and routines, ensuring that every student feels comfortable and confident in their learning environment. Teachers have been working hard to create a positive atmosphere where all students can thrive, and I’m proud of the progress we’re already seeing.
As we continue to build upon this strong start, please know that we are committed to making this school year an enriching and successful experience for your child.
Thank you for your continued support!
Breakfast Book Club
As the new school year begins, you have the unique opportunity to enroll your student in the Breakfast Book Club at Emma C. Smith Elementary. Breakfast Book Club is open to children of all reading abilities in grades 1st- 5th. It will meet the third Wednesday of each month* from 7:30 a.m. to 8:27 a.m. Meetings will include a continental breakfast in the multi-purpose room/library before the students are divided into grade-level discussion groups. Parents are needed to help facilitate group activities/group discussions each meeting.
The registration window is open until Sunday, September 1st.
Sign up today for flag football or basketball and earn money for the school at the same time!
Scan the QR code to register.
Your Help is Needed
At Emma C. Smith, we are committed to raising awareness about the importance of regular school attendance for all students. Regular attendance is directly linked to better academic performance, even when absences are only occasional.
Both excused (including Independent Study) and unexcused absences can lead to significant time lost in the classroom. Students are academically at risk if they miss 10 percent of the school year, or about 18 days whether they are consecutive or sporadic. Regardless of the reason, absences can negatively impact learning. While some absences are unavoidable, such as when a child is sick, it is important to get your child/ren to school as often as possible.
Being on time to class is equally as important and crucial for elementary students as it sets the foundation for a successful school day and cultivates lifelong habits of responsibility and punctuality. Students who arrive on time are better prepared to engage in the day's learning activities, build strong relationships with their teachers and peers, and participate fully in the structured routines that foster a positive and productive learning environment. Consistently arriving on time minimizes disruptions, allowing students to maximize their learning opportunities and stay on track academically.
Developing a habit of regular attendance prepares students for success in their careers and in life.
Every student, every day matters.
Universal Lunch & Breakfast
Breakfast will be served in the MPR from 8:00 a.m. - 8:20 a.m. Supervision is provided. Students will enter campus through the parking lot gate and proceed directly to the MPR.
All students have the option to eat a school lunch complete with entree, fruit or vegetable, and a milk. Students may purchase additional meals if they choose. Visit the Child Nutrition Services page for more information.
Stay Informed
Website: livermoreschools.org/smith
Location: 391 Ontario Drive, Livermore, CA, USA
Phone: 925.606.4750