Principal's News
We had an outstanding turn out at our Literacy Night. We hope you were able to learn more about our new reading program called HMH with the scavenger hunt. Our new reading program has routines and structures built into it. Routines and structures are so important and have so many benefits. Here are just a few of the benefits:
Building good habits: Routines can help your body and mind into the habit of being productive.
Enhance focus: Routines can help you improve your focus and productivity.
Promoting independence: Routines can help children learn how to follow directions and rules.
Building consistency and routine: Routines can provide a sense of consistency and security, which can help children feel comfortable and decrease anxiety.
By now many of you have met with your child's teacher for a conference. Conferences are just another way that we partner with you so that we can provide your child with what they need to be successful socially, emotionally, and academically.
If you ever have any questions, please reach out to us.
Sincerely,
Ms. Eckerle & Mr. Hobson
Just added: Golden Apple Nomination Information
Beginning today, Friday, November 1st, the nomination window for the 2024-2025 Golden Apple Awards will open. Anyone can nominate a teacher for Golden Apple: students, families, community members or other educators by following the directions on the Golden Apple webpage: https://www.k12albemarle.org/our-division/golden-apple-award
Nominations will close on Monday, January 27th, 2025. The following timeline of events will take place between the close of the nomination window and the award ceremony:
- Nominations close: Monday, January 27, 2025
- Final Principal/Headmaster approval of all nominees due: February 11, 2025
- Selection Committee meeting: March 2025
- Golden Apple Ceremony: Wednesday, May 14, 2025, in the Lane Auditorium located at 401 McIntire Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22902
Merry Murray
If you are interested in helping a Murray family this holiday, visit our Merry Murray sign up.
You can donate a grocery card, or you can purchase an outfit or shoes for a child. You can also purchase a special gift request. These are the items families have asked for from Toy Lift. Your purchase would be donated to Toy Lift, but earmarked for the Murray student, ensuring they get what they wanted for Christmas.
All donations should be delivered to the Murray office. Please note the due dates on the sign up. For questions, please contact Cindy Payne.
News from the Department of Technology
This year, we’re excited to focus on building strong digital citizenship skills with our students! Our goal is to empower them to be responsible, respectful, and safe in all their online interactions. A key emphasis at the start of the year has been on taking care of our devices. This includes closing laptops when not in use, restarting daily, keeping food and drinks away from devices, and checking for updates regularly.
For our older students, we’re also discussing the importance of seeking consent before taking photos or videos and practicing kindness and respect in all online conversations. Additionally, we’re teaching the value of privacy—covering topics such as using social media settings wisely, managing digital footprints, and understanding the potential impact of online actions. Together, we’re helping students become mindful digital citizens, prepared to engage positively and safely in today’s digital world.
Family Council
This year’s second Family Council meeting focused on Elementary Math. For the full scoop, check out our NEW Substack.
Important Dates and Reminders
November 4 - No School
November 5 - No School
November 19 - Picture Make-up Day/Retakes
November 21 - Math Night
November 27 - No School
November 28 - No School
November 29 - No School
Please check out the school calendar for all other school events: https://mes.k12albemarle.org/about/calendar
