Bulldog Blast
Wednesday, January 10th, 2024
Please see the following important reminders:
🍎 Parent Meeting Request Form: In our effort to continue NACS parent/guardian engagement with the Administrative Team, we have added another way for parents/guardians to schedule a meeting with an Administrative Team member. You can schedule a meeting by clicking this link or scanning the QR code, to complete the Google form. Once your request has been received, you will receive a follow-up email with confirmation of your request. An additional phone call and/or email will be sent to confirm your scheduled meeting date and time.
📓 Parent/Guardian Information & FOCUS: Parents, tomorrow, Thursday 1/11, you should expect two forms sent home regarding updating contact information in our FOCUS system and income guidelines for Title 1. Please make sure to check your child's school bag. Forms are due by Friday, 1/19 Questions? csantiago@northwoodcs.org
📓 Upcoming Parent Meetings: Next Wednesday, 1/17 we will be hosting TWO parent-related meetings. At 8:30am SPED families are welcome to join the SPED team in the school cafeteria for a meet and greet. At 5:30 via ZOOM we will continue to host our monthly Community Check-in for all K-8 guardians. Please see the below flyers for more information. Thank you!
🍎 Save the Date: 8th Grade Pictures are scheduled for Tuesday, March 12th, 2024.
Please note the following:
- Graduation gowns are provided by Lifetouch Studios. Caps are not worn in graduation pictures. Traditionally girls wear golden rod yellow and boys wear maroon.
- RETAKES will not be available for 8th-grade pictures.
- Pictures will also be available for purchase online after picture day. We will have a picture day code closer to the event. Thank you!
📓 Upcoming Holiday: Friendly reminder, Monday, 1/15 school will be closed in observance of MLK Day.Interested in the Greater Philadelphia King Day of Service? CLICK HERE to learn more. Additional opportunities are listed below in our Community Corner section of the blast.
🍎 8th Grade Guardians: Next week you can expect a letter coming home with class dues information. Please make sure to check your child's school bag, thank you!
ACTION REQUIRED: Intent to Return Form
Please complete this form to confirm your child(ren)'s re-enrollment to Northwood Academy Charter School for the 2024-2025 school year.
This re-enrollment is due by January 31st, 2024. If re-enrollment is not complete for your child(ren) by the due date, this may result in loosing their spot for the next school year.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact Ms. Mohamad (Amohamad@northwoodcs.org)
After-School Clubs: Sign-Ups will be open this FRIDAY, 1/12/24
Northwood will continue to use the platform called FamilyID for club registration. Upon clicking on the registration link below you will be prompted to set up an account (this only takes a minute).
- All information for each club can be found on Northwood's FamilyID Afterschool Clubs: Winter 2024 page at the following link: CLICK HERE to sign up for after-school clubs.
*PLEASE NOTE FOR ANIME CLUB AND DUNGEONS & DRAGONS CLUB THERE IS A REQUIRED PAPER PERMISSION FORM BEFORE REGISTERING ON FAMILYID. IF YOU HAVE NOT COMPLETED THIS STEP YOU WILL NEED TO REQUEST A FORM FROM MRS. SANDOVAL.
Bsandoval@northwoodcs.org*
Parent Corner:
Winter Weather:
With winter weather in full swing don't forget to reference our "Inclement Weather" landing page on the school's website for our specific policies and procedures.
Apply Philly Charter:
Dear Northwood Academy Charter School Parents,
We hope this message finds you well. As we prepare for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year, we want to bring your attention to an important enrollment reminder.
Please be aware that having a currently enrolled child at Northwood Academy Charter School (NACS) does not automatically register their sibling. For each new child entering Northwood, you must complete the lottery process, regardless of any siblings already attending NACS.
While siblings are given priority in the enrollment process, it's crucial to note that their acceptance is based on availability within the grade, and they may be placed on a waitlist.
We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we work to ensure a fair and transparent enrollment process. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to the school administration.
Thank you for your ongoing support.
Coffee and Conversation: SPED Parent Meeting, 1/17:
Wednesday morning, 1/17 join the Special Education Team for a brief meet and greet in the school cafeteria (8:30am). Please note RSVPs are required and due by Monday, 1/15 at 12:00pm.
Thank you and we look forward to seeing you then!
ZOOM information will be shared upon RSVPing to Ms. Urbano, thank you!
Important Reminder: Prohibition of Delivery Services for Takeout Food at School
We would like to bring to your attention an important matter regarding our school's policies on food delivery services.
Please note that students are strictly forbidden from using delivery services such as DoorDash, Grubhub, or Uber Eats to have takeout food sent to the school premises. This policy is in place to ensure the safety, security, and well-being of all students, as well as to maintain a conducive learning environment.
We kindly request your support in communicating this information to your child and reinforcing the importance of adhering to school rules. Students are encouraged to bring their own lunches or make use of the school cafeteria for their meal needs.
Thank you for your cooperation in helping us maintain a safe and focused educational environment. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this matter, please feel free to contact the school office.
REMIND APP SIGN-UP
If you have not done so already, sign up to get essential weekly alerts from us via the school Remind app
Remind is a free, safe messaging app that keeps Northwood Academy families up to date with what’s happening in the classroom and school. Additionally, our weekly Bulldog Blast is sent out via Remind, along with other timely announcements throughout each week. Please sign up for our Remind notifications to stay on top of important updates from teachers and receive schoolwide updates in real time.
Create a Remind account to receive Northwood's schoolwide alerts!
- Go to remind.com/join/nacsnews (or download the free iOS or Android app)
- Click Sign Up
- Provide a full name, email address, and password
- Choose your role
- Follow the instructions to start using Remind
To sign up and receive alerts via text message, text @nacsnews to the number 81010 and select the appropriate role.
Note: Each teacher has a different class code for their individual classes. Please contact your child's teacher to receive this information. Take note, not all teachers have a separate Remind classroom.
If you have followed the above instructions and are still having difficulties or not receiving NACS information please reach out to the Remind Help Desk for further assistance https://remind.ada.support/chat/
NORTHWOOD PARENT ASSOCIATION:
Are you eager to stay in the know about all the exciting events happening at your child's school? Do you want to lend a helping hand and get involved in the school community as a parent volunteer? Look no further! Our Parent Association is here to help you stay informed and engaged.
By filling out our simple form, you'll be sure to receive all the latest updates on school events, volunteer opportunities, and more. **Please note, if you completed this form last year you do not need to complete it again**
Don't miss out on any of the action - sign up today and stay in the loop with our Parent Association!
Power Kids: Pennsylvania's Electronic Library
Do you know about Power Kids, Pennsylvania's electronic library? With Power Kids, you and your child can access things like:
- BookFlix: Watch videos and read books
- CyberSmarts: Learn how to be a safe, responsible and smart citizen with eBooks
- TrueFlix: Learn about people, places, nature, history and science from videos and eBooks
- Chat with a Librarian
In addition, many libraries throughout Pennsylvania offers their members access to downloadable or streaming eBooks and audiobooks through Axis 360 and Hoopla. Enjoy new bestsellers and old favorites on your compatible digital device! Check with your library for additional info.
WIDA TESTING:
The WIDA ACCESS is an annual state required assessment for all students, considered to be English Language Learners, in all grades K-8. The WIDA website provides the following basic information about the test:
- The test provides information about students’ English language abilities in school. Educators use this information to make decisions about students’ education.
- ACCESS measures what students know and can do in English in the domains of Listening, Reading, Speaking and Writing.
- Students do not need to study for the test, but rather, focus on demonstrating their language abilities.
At Northwood, our students will test between the dates of 1/29/24 and 2/16/24. Parents and Guardians who have children involved in testing, will receive further details in January. Questions? ACarlson@northwoodcs.org
Welcome, Ms. Hatchell!
Next Tuesday we will welcome our new Social Work Intern. Our Master’s Level Social Work Intern, Essence Hatchell, is a graduate student from Widener University with a strong passion for servicing youth and families. We look forward to her coming on board for the remainder of this school year! Please welcome Ms. Hatchell!
Community Corner:
Northeast Frankford Boys & Girls Club:
Are you ready to take your basketball skills to the next level?
Starting in the New Year the NE Frankford BGCis hosting Basketball Workouts 6pm-7:30pm! All that’s needed is a good attitude , Club membership along with comfortable workout clothing. Questions? 215-743-7515
Northeast Phila. Cocoa with a Cop Community Event with PPD (2nd, 7th, 8th, 15th Police Districts)
WHEN?
Saturday January 13th, 2024, 11:00 am-1:00 pm inside Mission BBQ
WHERE?
11000 Roosevelt Blvd.
Christmas Tree Recycling Program:
Last week marked the start of the Streets Department's annual Christmas Tree Recycling program!
From now through January 13th, residents can recycle trees for FREE at one of their designated locations. Trees should be untied and free of decorations, lights, and ornaments.
To find a drop-off site near you, visit https://bit.ly/3UwYdSb. Happy New Year and happy recycling!
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at the Please Touch Museum!
Recognized as one of the nation’s top children’s attractions, the Please Touch Museum includes two floors of interactive exhibits and its famous 115-year-old carousel. On this Martin Luther King Jr. Day, families can join in a series of special activities and projects including a community resource fair, a rap performance by the Young Flames, interactive storytelling and the construction of two murals: one by local artist Amiracle portraying King that will be created in real-time and a collaborative Community Commitment mural that guests can contribute to by creating pieces of stained glass in the Creative Arts Studio.
Where: 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA 19131
When? Monday, January 15, 2024 | 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Martin Luther King and the Art of Protesting
You're never to young to stand up for your rights! Learn about the protesters from the Civil Rights Movement and how they stood up for equal rights. Afterwards, make a poster for your own cause and join the Tacony protest! For students Grade 3 and up.
When? Tuesday, January 16th, 4:00 p.m.
Where? Tacony Library 6742 Torresdale Avenue (Torresdale Ave. & Knorr St.) Philadelphia, PA 19135-2416 (215-685-8755)
2024 MLK Weekend Celebration at AAMP!
2024 Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration!
Sponsored by Citizens
January 12th - 15th
In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. and through the generosity of Citizens, the African American Museum is hosting a weekend of activities including performances, meaningful discussions, family activities, and access to exhibits.
This year’s theme, "Shifting the Cultural Climate," illuminates the need to be change agents in confronting a culture of violence and injustice and celebrates the power of the individual and the collective to inspire change for their communities and the next generation, while embracing love for our community, humanity, and ourselves.
On behalf of Citizens, we are pleased to extend reduced admission throughout the weekend celebration. Learn More about our celebration. 701 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Festival at Woodmere Art Museum
The Chestnut Hill area Woodmere Art Museum invites visitors to its annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Festival- a special family program that celebrates the words and legacy of Dr. King. Children will be inspired by stories of the courage, strength, and determination of many determined to make liberty and racial equality a reality in their lives. Artmaking projects will celebrate the words and activism of Dr. King and other legendary people involved in the Civil Rights Movement.
At 2 pm, enjoy a special performance by the award-winning singer and storyteller, TAHIRA, in an interactive show filled with compelling tales of freedom stories and songs.
When? Monday, January 15th, 12:00 pm -3:00 pm
Where? 9201 Germantown Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19118
The event is free with registration.
Tacony Branch - Free Library of Philadelphia Update:
Have you heard the good news?! Starting January 6th, Saturday service is back at
Tacony Branch - Free Library of Philadelphia. https://libwww.freelibrary.org/blog/post/5205
The Welcoming Center:
Bushrod Branch Library: Free Library of Philadelphia:
The Literacy Enrichment Afterschool Program (LEAP) offers K-12 out-of-school programming in Neighborhood Libraries. This programming fosters an inclusive, informal learning environment for children, teens, and families, with accessible learning activities that build on life skills, Maker philosophies, and wellness concepts.
Friday, January 19th, 1PM -4 PM at 2228 Cottman Ave Philadelphia, PA 19149
Tuesday, January 23rd, 5 PM-7 PM at 2601 North 11th Street
PGW Workshop:
If you need assistance with your energy bills the ECA will be hosting an energy conservation workshop at the Max Myers Rec on January 22nd. They will be giving away free weatherization kits!
If you have any questions about this or need assistance, please call 215-342-6340.
1601 Hellerman St, Philadelphia, PA 19149
Greater Olney Library Upcoming Events:
SAVE THE DATE:
What is Safe2Say Something?
Here’s how it works:
- Submit an anonymous tip report through the Safe2SaySomething system
- The crisis center reviews and processes all submissions
- The crisis center sends all submissions to school administration and/or law enforcement for intervention
- If needed, the crisis center may contact the tipster anonymously through the app
Safe2Say Something PA:
Submit an anonymous tip here.
Mental Health is just as important as physical health!
FAMILIES IN TRANSITION: NORTHWOOD IS HERE TO HELP
If you and your family lack fixed, regular, or adequate housing (for example, living in a shelter, transitional home, or even doubled-up with other people) due to loss of housing or economic hardship, you may qualify for certain rights and protections under the federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, which ensures educational stability for students experiencing homelessness.
To learn more about the rights of eligible families, click here for a brief video.
If you qualify for rights under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, contact our school social worker at dominiqueharris@northwoodcs.org for more information.
Are you or someone you know in need of housing, food, health, and safety services? Please check out these resources from Project HOME: Where To Turn Guide.
Please review Northwood's Homeless Students Policy here: McKinney-Vento Policy.
Important Dates on the Horizon
Monday, 1/15, School Closed in Observance of MLK Day
Wednesday, 1/17/24, SPED Coffee & Conversations with Mrs. Leite (8:30am-9:30am)
Wednesday, 1/17/24, January Community Check-In (Zoom Webinar, 5:30 pm)
Friday, 1/19, 7th Grade Field Trip (Franklin Institute)
Friday, 2/2, Kindergarten Field Trip (Legoland)
More events to come!
Connect with Northwood
Website: northwoodcs.org
Location: 4621 Castor Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, USA
Phone: (215) 289-5606
Facebook: facebook.com/Northwood-Academy-Charter-School-153041454730750/
Twitter: @northwoodcs