Alameda Friday Newsletter
September 6, 2024
September 6, 2024
Dear Families,
Despite the warm temperatures and our shortened day today, week two was a great success. Our kindergarten students have done an amazing job adjusting to their new life at Alameda. They are pretty much silent in the cafeteria (just like at home, I am sure…) and are already reading, writing, and solving problems. Our 1st through 5th graders are jumping in where they left off, and are starting to dig into iReady Math, Wit and Wisdom (ELA), and plenty more.
Yesterday we had our first fire drill of the year. The students and staff did an excellent job evacuating the building. They remained calm and were perfectly silent once they got outside. All classes meet on the field (our designated meeting location for any evacuation), where we ensure all students are accounted for, and then we provide instruction or information to the students.
In addition to monthly fire drills, we will also have school wide lockdown, earthquake, and secure the perimeter (this is when there is a threat outside) drills. Before we do any of these drills, our teachers will talk with their class about why we practice these and how to react in a real life situation. Our goal is to realize the benefits of practicing without making the practice itself a negative and scary experience. It is certainly a delicate balance, but our staff does an excellent job.
Last week I discussed our new Social-Emotional Learning curriculum. Another way we are promoting a safe and kind school climate will be to recognize positive behavior. Students will be given “Eagle Tickets” when they are seen making a positive contribution to our school community by a staff member. Our focus is around common spaces - hallway, cafeteria, and playground. The ticket will go into a jar (one jar per grade level) and a couple of times per month we will have a drawing, with the winner getting a small prize. Once the entire school collects 1,000 tickets we will have a schoolwide celebration. We all know the critical importance of hearing plenty of positives and for students to have the opportunity to model for one another. We hope this helps highlight all the great things taking place everyday at Alameda.
My apologies for the confusion and excessive email and text messages today. We are still figuring out Remind, our new system. Please see some links below to get up to speed on how you can make sure you receive all messages coming from PPS and Alameda.
I hope everyone has a nice weekend - looks like cooler temperatures are on the way!
See you Monday.
Regards,
Matt GoldsteinPrincipal
LEARN. GROW. THRIVE.
Before & After School Programs 2024-2025
Dear Alameda Families,
Are you looking for a nurturing environment for your child to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally? Enroll them in our YMCA Before and After School Program conveniently located on-site at Alameda. Our programs provide a supportive atmosphere where your child can explore interests, acquire new skills, and engage in interactive learning. With dedicated staff fostering personal growth, your child will gain confidence for the future. For families looking for financial support, the YMCA accepts ERDC. The Y also has the Open Door Program, where families can apply for a discounted rate.
Current participating families will have an opportunity to register prior to the open registration date listed below. Please contact your location's Site Director for more information.
Open Registration: May 21, 7:00am