North Star News - November 2023
Photo: Arctic Light Elementary student outside during a Playworks led recess.
What's inside?
- Spotlight on Family Partnership
- Alaska EdVenture Podcast: Episode 4
- Science Curriculum Public Comment Period Open
- Updating Contact Information
- Job Opportunities
- and more!
Dear Parents and Guardians,
I hope this letter finds you well! I wanted to take a moment to emphasize the crucial role that parents and guardians play in their child's educational journey and thank you for the support you provide your child and the school district on a daily basis.
Research and experience have repeatedly demonstrated that parental involvement significantly impacts a child's academic success and overall well-being. By actively participating and supporting your child's education, you are laying the foundation for their future achievements and instilling in them a lifelong love for learning. Your engagement in their educational experience not only enhances their academic performance but also fosters their social and emotional development.
This year we have three primary goals: Improved literacy rates, improved attendance, and improved culture and climate within our schools.
Parents can significantly aid their child's literacy development by fostering a home environment that encourages reading and communication. First and foremost, parents can read with their children regularly, exposing them to a variety of books and engaging in discussions about the stories. Encouraging questions and active participation during reading sessions helps enhance comprehension and critical thinking skills. Providing a wide range of reading materials, including books, magazines, and newspapers, in the home promotes a reading culture. Additionally, parents can be strong role models by demonstrating their own love for reading. Encouraging writing, whether through journaling, storytelling, or creative writing, also aids in improving literacy. By creating an atmosphere that values and celebrates literacy, parents empower their children to become enthusiastic, confident, and skilled readers and writers.
Parents can play a pivotal role in helping their students with attendance by establishing a daily routine that emphasizes the importance of punctuality and regular school attendance. This can include setting consistent bedtimes, preparing for the school day in advance, and creating a positive morning environment. Additionally, parents can maintain open communication with their children about the value of attending school regularly, highlighting the connection between attendance and academic success. Recognizing and addressing any underlying issues that may contribute to absenteeism, such as health concerns or social challenges, is also essential. By being proactive, supportive, and involved in their child's school life, parents can reinforce the significance of attendance, motivating their students to be present and engaged in their education.
Furthermore, your communication with teachers and staff plays a vital role in ensuring that your child receives the necessary support and guidance to excel in their studies. By maintaining an open and collaborative dialogue with educators, you can stay informed about your child's progress and address any challenges they may be facing effectively. I encourage you to participate in parent-teacher conferences, school events, and volunteer opportunities within the district. Your presence and involvement not only benefit your child's education but also creates a strong sense of community within our schools.
When parents and guardians actively engage in their child's education, students are more motivated, focused, and confident in their abilities. Your partnership with us in this educational journey is invaluable, and we are committed to providing you with the necessary resources and support to help your child thrive.
Thank you for your continued support and dedication to your child's education. Together, we can create a nurturing and empowering learning environment that sets the stage for your child's success now and in the future.
Sincerely,
Dr. Luke Meinert
FNSBSD Superintendent
Podcast Episode 004 of Alaska EdVenture is Live
On this episode of Alaska EdVenture, Superintendent Dr. Luke Meinert is joined by two high school students, Shelby Seekins and Liam Wade. Shelby serves as Student Body President at West Valley High School and as Head Chairman Region 6 Student Council. Liam Wade serves as Sophomore Class President at North Pole High School and as Vice Chairman Region 6 Student Council.
They discuss their involvement in regional student council, the Alaska Association Student Government Conference resolutions that were debated, and how to promote student engagement.
Emergency Test Update | Communications
Last month, the school district sent TEST emergency messages via email, text message, and automated phone call. If you did not receive messages, please ensure your contact information is up-to-date. Contact information for parents/guardians can be viewed and edited in PowerSchool. Your school office can help you get your PowerSchool account set up. District staff members can check in ESS, update with change form then submit to HR.
Free & Reduced Meal Application Verification Process | Nutrition Services
The Nutrition Services Department has started the meal application verification process. The U.S. Department of Agriculture National School Lunch Program regulations require the district to verify that family income information listed is accurate. We identify a random sample and notify those selected via email and USPS. Thank you to those who have responded to our information requests. For those who haven’t, please consider doing so before November 15, 2023. Anyone who doesn’t respond will have the meal benefits for their children rescinded and begin paying full price for meals on November 27, 2023.
Immunizations Requirements for School | Nursing Services
The immunization deadline is November 20, 2023, any non-compliant student will be excluded from school on this date. If your student is non-compliant, you would have received a letter or phone call stating what is needed. Please submit your student's up-to-date vaccination records or exemptions to your school's Admin or Health Office.
Science Curriculum - Public Comment Period Open | Teaching & Learning
The FNSBSD is currently revising its Science curriculum for grades 6-12. Draft two of the high school curriculum is now available for review and public comment. A strong and effective final document depends on careful deliberation of proposed changes. Input from educators, parents, students, and the community is a vital factor in the curriculum revision process. Public comment closes on November 5, 2023.
Newly Elected School Board Members Sworn In
The Honorable Superior Court Judge Earl Peterson administered the Oath of Office to newly elected school board members Bobby Burgess, Timothy Doran, and Meredith Maple.
Board Reorganization of Elected Seats:
• Brandy Harty, President
• Timothy Doran, Vice President
• Erin Morotti, Treasurer
• Chrya Sanderson, Clerk
• Melissa Burnett, Member
• Bobby Burgess, Member
• Meredith Maple, Member
Lights On Afterschool
On October 26, our Afterschool programs celebrated the annual Lights On Afterschool event to highlight the many ways afterschool programs support students by providing opportunities to learn about—STEM, Arts, Music, and Physical Fitness. The events send a powerful message that more kids need quality afterschool programs. FNSBSD currently offer has seven afterschool sites here in interior Alaska. Lights On Afterschool is an annual national event organized by Afterschool Alliance.
Interior Alaska Participants Selected for ASAA Alaska All-State Music Festival
Over 753 auditions were submitted and only 345 students from across the state were selected for the various ensembles in the upcoming ASAA All-State Music festival. Over 50 students, plus 10 alternates, were chosen to participate from the Fairbanks area. The ASAA All-State Music Festival is an audition-based honors music festival. Selected students from around the state of Alaska work with conductors at the top of their field in large ensembles of orchestra, band, mixed choir, or treble choir to showcase their talent. Click here for a list of the nominated students.
Donor Wall Recognition
Thank you to the Lathrop High Wrestling Booster Club for donating over $30,000 to the Lathrop wrestling team! Financial or in-kind donations directly impact students by supporting district programs. Learn how to partner with the FNSBSD and view the FY24 Donor Wall here.
Recess Program Improves Student Play at Arctic Light Elementary
"Playworks has been so beneficial for our students! Kids are excited to go to recess, they are learning new games, and they are helping each other," said Principal Rachel Blackwell. Arctic Light Elementary recently partnered with Playworks to improve playground-to-classroom environments within the school community. Playworks is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping schools enhance recess and student playtime through safety, engagement, and empowerment, where every child can join. Click here to learn more about Playworks.
Updating Contact Information in Powerschool | Technology
Keeping your contact information up to date at your child's school and with the district is essential for their safety, well-being, and academic success. Your child's school and the district need to be able to reach you quickly in case of an emergency, and we also want to keep you informed of your child's progress and upcoming events. Follow the steps here to update your information.
Connect With Your Student through SEL | Student Support Services
Social-emotional learning (SEL) is an important part of your child's education. Why is this important? It makes your child's school life better, improves their behavior, and helps them do well academically. To promote social and emotional learning in our students, as parents and caregivers, we can ask our children questions to start meaningful conversations.
Before asking your child about their day, make sure you set your phone aside and really pay attention to what they’re saying. Sometimes, children don’t want to talk because they don’t feel heard and other times, they say more with their body language than with words. That’s why it’s important to be fully present, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
Keep in mind that children, like adults, sometimes need some time to decompress before they want to chat. If your child is not very responsive after your first question, try again later.
If you’re still struggling with getting your child to open up about their day, try connecting first. Do a fun activity together that lightens the mood and creates an open environment. And then, ask any of the questions in the graphic and let the conversation flow.
2023-24 Academic Calendar | Communications
Supporting Regular Student Attendance
Our schools partner with our families in supporting attendance. If you need assistance, we may be able to help! Please reach out to your school or the district if your student faces roadblocks from attending regularly. Our district also has connections with community partners to support additional needs. Find out more or request assistance at Bright Futures Fairbanks / Request BFF Support
Snow Removal Priorities at Schools | Facilities Management
Our Facilities Management Department (FMD) follows a priorities chart for snow removal at schools. FMD is equally dedicated to each school and will provide the most essential services throughout the district before commencing with additional snow removal.
Family Support with Alaska Reads Act | Teaching & Learning
The district and the State agree on the importance of family engagement and the value of partnering with parents in the education of their children. Throughout the Alaska Reads Act, there are multiple prompts to initiate communication with parents, inform them about their child’s reading progress, and consult with parents on the Reading Achievement Plan and grade level progression. Click here to learn more.
Surplus Items Now Available in Online Auctions
The district is now holding surplus auctions on GovDeals.com, an online auction service for State, Local, and Educational agencies to conduct online sales of their surplus property.
Join Our School Community as a Substitute Employee!
Are you a parent looking to make a difference in your child's school community? Here's a fantastic opportunity for you! Become a substitute employee with us, and enjoy a flexible schedule that complements your family's needs. As a substitute, you'll play a vital role in supporting our schools and students, all while benefiting from a schedule that accommodates your life.
If you're interested in contributing to your child's educational journey and becoming an essential part of our team, click here for more information on this rewarding opportunity.
Thanksgiving Meals at Elementary Schools | Nutrition Services
As Thanksgiving approaches, we wanted to do a special event! On November 15, 2023, Nutrition Services we will be serving a Thanksgiving meal at the elementary schools. The items listed on the regular school menu will not be served. Instead we will have delicious turkey, mashed potatoes, green beans, cantaloupe, and a dessert.
Viewing Your Child's Reaching Achievement Plan | Teaching & Learning
If your child qualifies for a Reading Achievement Plan (RAP), the school will notify you. The tutorials below will show you how you can view your child’s RAP from your Parent/Guardian PowerSchool account. If you do not have an account, please contact the school's front office for support.
Achieving Success through Collaboration | Student Support Services
Our Student Support Services (SSS) team collaborates with families to address barriers to student success, offering academic, behavioral, social, and emotional support. The SSS team maintains regular communication with parents and work together to meet students' needs. Learn more about our programs in our Student Support Services Booklet.
After School Programs (ASP) | Student Support Services
After School Programs have been shown to increase a student's regular school day attendance.
For more information about after school activities for students, please contact the school’s administration. Questions about the grant funded Afterschool programs?
Check out our 21st CCLC Afterschool Programs available in the FNSBSD.
Looking for Special Education Teachers and Paraprofessionals! | Human Resources
We are looking for extraordinary people! Our Special Education teachers and paraprofessionals serve with passion and purpose and are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of our students and school community. Join an amazing team of special education professionals and make a difference today; we offer Flexible Schedules, Competitive Pay, School Options and Diverse Opportunities.
Alaska Native Education Program (ANE) | Student Support Services
Supporting Cultural Enrichment for Your Child
- Our ANE program is dedicated to supporting Alaska Native/American Indian students in grades K-12 and enriching the cultural experience for all students in our district. As a parent with children in our schools, you play a crucial role in their educational journey.
Guidelines for Your Child's Well-being
- The cultural standards offered by the ANE program provide essential guidelines for schools and communities to ensure the cultural well-being of our youth. These standards can be used to assess family environments and parenting support systems.
Promoting Parental Involvement in Your Child's Education
- One vital way to meet these standards is by encouraging parental involvement in your child's education. Your active participation is key to creating a supportive educational environment for your children.
For more information, visit our ANE website or contact our program office. Thank you for being an essential part of our ANE community!
Touring Alaska Room | Alaska Native Education
Kellie Lynch, our Alaska Room Coordinator, led a wonderful family fiddle fest at Weller Elementary last May, underlining the vital role of family engagement in our district. The Alaska Room Program offers cultural experiences and support to our district year-round. This event, in collaboration with the Fairbanks Native Association and Weller Elementary, highlights the importance of family engagement within our district
You can request the Alaska Room at your school through the Alaska Room School Interest Form.
What is the Migrant Ed Program Parent Advisory Committee (PAC)? | Migrant Education
The PAC is a group of parents and guardians like you, who want to help make the Migrant Education Program better. We want to hear from you because your thoughts and ideas are really important! Any parent or guardian with a child in the Migrant Ed Program can join.
Family Engagement at Title 1 Schools | Student Support Services
Family engagement is an essential component of the Title I Program at each Title I School. For reference, the Title I Schools have dedicated areas on their websites for their School-Parent-Student Compacts and Family Engagement Plans.
Arctic Light, Anne Wien, Denali, Hunter, Ryan, Salcha, Ticasuk, Two Rivers
Reading Support via your Student’s ClassLink | Teaching & Learning
ClassLink is an online platform our district uses to provide students with access to all of their digital learning resources in one place. Students can use their ClassLink login to access things like online textbooks and educational apps, including the four reading apps your student can use to build their reading skills at home. For questions, please contact your child’s teacher.
- First Step- Access ClassLink step sheet & Video tutorial
- Second Step- access Reading Support Apps
Student Activities | Athletics
Click the google sheet links below for activity calendars.
Upcoming Events
NOV 10 | Veterans Day
NOV 10 | 6:00 p.m. Weller Elementary 40th Anniversary & Alumni Night, Weller Elem.
NOV 23–24 | Holiday (Schools & District Offices Closed)
Board of Education Meetings
NOV 7 | 6:00 p.m. Board Regular Meeting
NOV 7 | 5:30 p.m. School Board Special Meeting
NOV 15 | 5:30 p.m. Board Budget Committee
NOV 21 | 5:30 p.m. School Board Special Meeting
NOV 21 6:00 p.m. Board Regular Meeting
Fairbanks North Star Borough School District
Email: publicrelations@k12northstar.org
Website: https://www.k12northstar.org
Location: 520 5th Avenue, Fairbanks, AK, USA
Phone: (907) 452-2000
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fsdk12/
Instagram: @fsdk12
Twitter: @fsdk12
THE FAIRBANKS NORTH STAR BOROUGH SCHOOL DISTRICT IS AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT AND EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY INSTITUTION, AS WELL AS A TOBACCO AND NICOTINE-FREE LEARNING AND WORK ENVIRONMENT.