Dear Parents and Guardians,
As we embrace the arrival of April, I want to take a moment to highlight how our character trait of the month courage, relates to our April state testing.
April marks the beginning of state testing season for all students in Arizona. These assessments provide valuable insights into our students' academic progress and help us identify areas where additional support may be needed. The test scores are the biggest factor in our state issued school letter grade and can impact funding.
While state testing can sometimes evoke feelings of apprehension, it's essential to approach it with a positive and COURGAGOUS mindset. It's an opportunity for our students to showcase their knowledge and skills, and it's a chance for us, as educators and parents, to support and encourage them every step of the way.
I want to reassure you that our dedicated teachers and staff have been diligently preparing our students for these assessments, ensuring they feel confident, COURAGOUS and well-equipped to excel. Additionally, we have created a supportive and nurturing environment within our school community to help alleviate any stress or anxiety our students may feel during this time.
As we navigate through state testing month, I encourage you to continue providing your child with encouragement, support, and a nurturing environment at home. Ensure they get plenty of rest, eat healthily, and approach each testing day with a positive attitude.
Together, let's empower our students to do their best and showcase their abilities during this testing season. Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership in your child's education journey.
Warm regards,
Principal Harris
It's time to secure your piece of the memories!
Yearbooks are now available for pre-order starting Monday, April 22nd for just $10. Don't miss out on reliving the highlights of the year in full-color paperback!
It's cash only for payments at the front office, and quantities are limitedβfirst come, first serve! Reserve yours today to ensure delivery by the last week of school.
Don't let the memories fade awayβorder now! π
Tuesday, April 30th @5:30-7:00pm π¦π¦π¦
Join us on Tuesday, April 30th from 5:30-7:00 pm for our first-ever movie event! Gather the whole family and enjoy a cozy evening as we watch Madagascar. It's the perfect occasion to celebrate literacy and cherish quality time together.
Don't forget to bring blankets or grab a seat in the cafeteria for maximum comfort! And of course, what's a movie night without snacks? We'll have popcorn and drinks available for purchase, with all proceeds supporting our school initiatives.
Stay tuned for further details. We're eagerly looking forward to seeing you there for an evening filled with fun and entertainment!
5th Grade Teacher: Ms. Kamell
Hi, I'm Ms. Kamell, fifth-grade teacher here at Steele! It's been an amazing journey getting to this point. I've spent the last 13 years working in TUSD elementary schools, soaking up every bit of knowledge and experience along the way. This year marked my debut as a full-fledged teacher, and let me tell you, it's a dream come true. Teaching has been on my radar for as long as I can remember. Once my own daughters graduated from TUSD, I finally took the plunge. Plus, I'm now a proud grandma to a beautiful granddaughter β talk about motivation to make a difference! When I am not at school you can find me gathered around the kitchen, exploring new recipes, and baking with my family, or hanging out with my friends and exploring new places, restaurants and coffee spots.
5ht Grade TA: Mr. Zylks
Hello all!
My name is Ty Zylks and I have been the 5th grade Teachers Assistant for the last two school years. I have loved getting to know all the individual students in each of the years I have been with them. I have also enjoyed running P.E. this year with the class; as we have been able to branch out and learn many games the kids had never played before (like kickball!)! In my personal life, I have been married for 10 years to my beautiful wife Mrs. Zylks and we have been blessed with two very special daughters. We love to hike, kayak, explore the city with each other.
OMA Orchestra Teacher: Mr. Thaler
My name is Raiden Thaler, this is my third year at Steele as the OMA Arts Integration Specialist as well as the Orchestra Director for Steele Elementary and the Elementary grades at Miles ELC. I have a Bachelors and Masters degree in Viola Performance and am a tenured member of the Tucson Symphony Orchestra. It has been great to see Steele's population grow musically in many ways since I began in 2021; students continue to break records and achieve more than the previous generation with my violin and Orchestra classes! I enjoy spending time with my wife and dog, reading, and teaching violin/viola to my private students. Fun Fact: I started learning violin at age 3!
