
October 18th, 2024
Gháájí' means Half, the month of the Separation of Seasons.

Volume 5, Issue 6
MESSAGE
The first 9 weeks already ended, and we are now in the second quarter of our school year. We hope you all had a chance to meet with your child’s teachers and learn about your child’s progress. Please continue to support your child’s learning, stay involved and support their efforts as they proceed through the school year. Your support has a very deep and significant influence on their success not only in school, but in life in general.
We have several fun events this month planned for our families. Please check the school communications regularly not to miss the fun! Stay warm as we go further into the fall. This is a great time for the family evenings, spent sharing stories, playing board games, enjoying a cup of hot chocolate and just talking with each other.
LITERACY PARADE
On October 16, 2024, TCS students showcased their commitment to promoting reading and literacy through a lively Literacy Parade. Students from Pre-K to secondary levels participated, proudly representing their favorite books and authors. The parade featured vibrant, creative, and colorful costumes inspired by beloved children's literature, including classic titles such as “Charlotte's Web” and "Fry Bread".
Additionally, elements of Diné (Navajo) culture were highlighted: Ms. Helen's class marched proudly as different unique Navajo Rugs to remind and carry on the generational teaching of weaving among Diné families. The students marched throughout the high school, front office, and elementary showing their enthusiasm for reading. The event not only celebrated various literary works but also nurture a sense of community, inspiring young readers to embrace the joy of books and storytelling. The Literacy Parade showed the power of literature to unite and educate, leaving a lasting impact and encouraging message to read! Knowledge is power!
--- Erica Nelson, Parent Advisory Committee
Here is a video of the event:
WINNERS OF THE LITERACY PARADE
ELEMENTARY:
1st Place = Fry Bread (Preschool)
2nd Place = Three Little Pigs (5th Grade)
3rd Place = Pete the Cat (2nd/3rd Dual Language)
SECONDARY:
1st Place = Charlotte's Web (MS Resource)
2nd Place = Raven (Gifted and Talented)
3rd Place = Book Readings (HS Resource)
Thank you for participating and congratulations to our winners!!
STUDENT CORNER
Pumpkin Patch Field Trip for grades Kinder to 2nd
Lower Elementary from grades K-2nd got to experience the fun and family-friendly event at the Galloping Goat Pumpkin Patch located in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. All students were welcomed with a handful of animal feed to give to the nice goats upon arrival. They were also able to get into activities right away from their putt-putt golf, corn hole toss, basketball shoot, bike races and the biggest fun; the 20' X 40' corn pit that housed 22,000 lbs of corn. They were able to get the chance to see farm animals all throughout the festivities as well as gain some knowledge of how production of products are made from the chicken, turkey's, cows, miniature horses and donkeys on the property. They completed their time by getting the chance to take home one pumpkin of their choice as a good bye gift to their fun-filled visit.
--- Talaya Chavez, Substitute Teacher
Pumpkins and Blue Hubbard Squash donated by NAPI
Eric Trevizo, (the field supervisor from the pumpkin patch of last year) went missing in early February of 2024. He was later found near the interstate outside of Las Vegas, NV, and suffered from a stroke. To this day, Mr. Trevizo is still recovering and is no longer able to continue his passion of working in the fields of the pumpkin patch of the Four Corners area. With Mr. Trevizo’s help, he approved our pumpkin picking for our school and community here at To’Hajiilee, NM last school year. I have the utmost gratitude and appreciation for the generosity, along with the staff of Pumpkin Patch Fundraisers.
This year, I took the initiative to reach out to the headquarters in Greensboro, North Carolina, and they approved our pumpkin picking again. Students, staff, and parents were able to pick Pumpkins and Blue Hubbard Squash to celebrate the beginning of the changing season and harvest. The Facilities and Transportation Department traveled on the 15th of October to pick pumpkins for our students and staff. Please continue to keep Eric Trevizo in your prayers as his fighting to make a full recovery.
--- Jennifer Redhouse, Human Resources
Secondary Students Attend Indigi-STEAM Day on October 17th
The field trip to Explora for the Indigi-STEAM day was informative, engaging, and enjoyable for many of the students and staff. Learning about natural remedies and recipes for cosmetics, the students were hands on with the instructor in the making of natural lip scrubs and roll on oils. Moving forward, the students enjoyed learning about natural dyes used by indigenous peoples in their weaving practices as well as the history behind it. As an instructor at TCS I found it to be enjoyable as well and noticed many of the students intrigued to learn at the event.
---Julianne Lecavalier-Laursen, SPED Educational Assistant
STAFF CORNER
Bio of Marietta Marmon, New Staff
Now comes this lady, Marietta. Who is she? Where did she come from, and how does she fit in? (laughter)
Greetings All: My name is Marietta Marmon and I come from the Pueblo of Laguna. I am reenter the profession of education, again. You see, I’ve been on a short sabbatical, but I will give more information on this as well a bit later.
I was born and raised just south of Laguna Pueblo on a family owned homestead and cattle ranch. I attended the local elementary school, transferred and graduated from Rehoboth Christian School, in 1982.
I went on to obtain my educational credentials from the College of Santa Fe, in Albuquerque, NM; obtained my Master of Arts degree from the University of New Mexico, in 2002. I have been a lifetime learner, and went on to continue with the University pursuing educational administration experience through their certificate program. As I wondered throughout the profession of education, I have worked throughout various local public school districts. It is with and through the power of education that landed me my next role as a Veterinary Assistant. I was influenced again by being a credentialed educator that I thought it was time I pursue a passion of mine, Veterinary education. I recently attended San Juan College at Farmington, and it was through their program that I received my Veterinary Assistant Certificate, definitely a passion of mine and part of a dream come true. See I am not quite finished in this field, well, not just yet. Hee-hee.
Now back to education, I am here to serve in a substitute teacher capacity and am honored your school, Tohajiilee Community, has chosen me to serve in this role. As I understand it, I am here to serve and support all teaching staff on Thursdays and Fridays. I will be serving the needs of the students on these days and look forward to meeting community at special and athletic events throughout the year.
---- Marietta Marmon, Substitute Teacher
PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCE
Staff Pose during Parent Teacher Conference night.
ATHLETICS
Middle School and High School Cross Country
Congrats to the Cross Country team for getting a new canopy with the TCS logo. Go Warriors!
Middle School Cross Country at St. Pius
The Middle School Cross Country team held their final meet at St. Pius in Albuquerque on October 18, 2024. Despite the windy and brisk weather, the students gave it their all. Families were present to cheer on and support the runners.
Here's to a fantastic season for these dedicated runners!
Middle School Volleyball
TCS Middle School volleyball supported Breast Cancer Awareness during their last home game at TCS vs. Laguna.
Middle School Volleyball waiting patiently for the Warrior Bus after attending the Explora Field Trip.
NAVAJO WORD OF THE DAY
Weekly, you will see our Navajo Word of the Day. Practice saying the word, spelling the word, and use it in a sentence.
FAMILY ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
FAMILY ENGAGEMENT AND STUDENT ACTIVITIES CALENDAR
BUS SAFETY WEEK
MONTHLY FOOD DISTRIBUTION
To'Hajiilee Week - November 20th - 26th
LITERACY RESOURCES
Click n the links below to view the resource links.
Here is the one with books for ages 3-12:
https://booksmart.worldreader.org/home
Unite for Literacy books (for kids 0-8 years old) with narration in different languages (including Navajo). The first link is Tohajiilee page with some books featuring local families:
https://www.uniteforliteracy.com/Tohajiilee/library?authuser=0
This link is general library for Unite for Literacy:
https://www.uniteforliteracy.com/?authuser=0
Also, parents can sign up to receive these small books for free, mailed to their addresses. Here is the link to sign up (for kids 0-8 years old) :
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Math Medic Foundation: https://mathmedicfoundation.org/
Summer Resource Programs: https://pathwaystoscience.org/Undergrads.aspx
STUDENT HANDBOOK
BREAKFAST AND LUNCH MENU
October 21st
- BREAKFAST: Strawberry Yogurt Parfait, Fresh Strawberries, Granola, and Choice of Milk
- LUNCH: Chicken Teriyaki, Brown Rice, Veggies, Pineapple Chunks, and Choice of Milk
October 22nd
- BREAKFAST: Blueberry Pancakes, Apple Wedges, and Choice of Milk
- LUNCH: Beef Stew, Broccoli, Dinner Roll, Orange Chunks, and Choice of Milk
October 23rd
- BREAKFAST: Ham Egg Cheese Combo Bar, Toasts, Fruit Cup, Banana, and Choice of Milk
- LUNCH: Beef Tacos, Tortilla Chips, Fresh Strawberries, and Choice of Milk
October 24th
- BREAKFAST: Waffle, Watermelon Chunks, and Choice of Milk
- LUNCH: Grill Cheese Sandwich, Tomato Soup, Celery Sticks, Apple Wedges, and Choice of Milk
October 25th
- BREAKFAST: Breakfast Pizza, Orange, and Choice of Milk
- LUNCH: Mandarin Orange Chicken, Veggies, Graham Cracker, Melon Chunks, and Choice of Milk
October 28th
- BREAKFAST: Waffle, Watermelon Chunks, and Choice of Milk
- LUNCH: Braised Beef with Gravy, Mash Potatoes, Green Beans, Dinner Roll, Fresh Strawberries, Slushie, and Choice of Milk
- BREAKFAST: Hashbrown, Apple Wedges, and Choice of Milk
- LUNCH: Enchiladas, Refried Beans, Mexican Rice, Slice Peaches, and Choice of Milk
October 30th
- BREAKFAST: Cinnamon Roll, Fruit Cup, and Choice of Milk
- LUNCH: Meatloaf, Mash Potatoes, Dinner Roll, Broccoli, Apple Wedges, and Choice of Milk
October 31st
- BREAKFAST: Biscuit with Turkey Gravy, Fresh Grapes, and Choice of Milk
- LUNCH: Chili Beans, Cornbread, Garden Salad, Rainbow Fruit Salad, and Choice of Milk
November 1st
- BREAKFAST: Pancake, Apple Sauce, and Choice of Milk
- LUNCH: Turkey and Cheese Croissant, Broccoli Salad, Peaches Slices, and Choice of Milk
IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER
School Calendar of Events:
October 2024
- 21st - 25th: National School Bus Safety Week
- 21st: ECH Field Trip - Pumpkin Patch
- 22nd: Dine Language & Culture Field Trip: Pumpkin Patch
- 22nd: Lady Warriors Volleyball vs. Pinehill (Home) Varsity DIG PINK
- 23rd: NMSU Career Fair (9th-12th)
- 26th: Lady Warriors Volleyball vs. Shiprock (Home) Varsity
- 28th: CBNHC Presentations (Middle & High school)
- 29th: Lady Warriors Volleyball vs. Tse Yi Gai (Home) Varsity
- 29th: Gifted & Talented Field Trip - Big Jim Farm
- 30th: Fall Festival
- 31st: Early Childhood Trick or Treat
November 2024
- 1st-2nd: Cross Country District Meet - TBD
- 2nd: Lady Warriors Volleyball vs. Pinehill (Away) Varsity
- 5th: ACT
- 8th: National STEAM Day
- 9th: Cross Country State Meet - TBD
- 11th: Veterans Day (HOLIDAY) - No School for Students & All Employees
- 14th-16th: Volleyball State Championships
- 20th-26th: To'Hajiilee Week
- 26th: Turkey-in-the-Hole
- 27th: Thanksgiving Break - No School (Students & School Year Employees)
- 28th-29th: Thanksgiving Break - No School (Students & All Employees)
RESOURCES
Previous Parent Newsletter
Volume 5, Issue 1: https://secure.smore.com/n/d5a4s
Volume 5, Issue 2: https://secure.smore.com/n/pdaet1
Volume 5, Issue 3: https://secure.smore.com/n/xrvqc
Volume 5, Issue 4: https://secure.smore.com/n/p4bw9
Volume 5, Issue 5: https://secure.smore.com/n/5rf74]
Volume 6, Issue 6: https://secure.smore.com/n/u40c63