Salem Avenue Elementary Saber News
May/June 2024
Important Dates
May:
6- MCAP Testing Begins (3rd, 4th, and 5th Grades)
10- Craft & Croissant Event
13- Attendance Celebration -- PTA Meeting
14- Professional Development Day- No School for Students
16- Fifth Grade Transition Event for WHMS
20- Wake Up and Play Event -- 2 Hour Early Dismissal
23- After the Bell Showcase
24- Friday Fun Day -- Mobile Food Pantry Pick Up (Robert W. Johnson Community Center)
27- Memorial Day (Schools and CES Closed)
29- Flying Boxcars Baseball Game (3rd, 4th, and 5th Grade)
June:
3- Spring Fling
6- Last Day for Students -- Summer Sendoff -- 2 1/2 Hour Early Dismissal
7- Last Day for Staff
Attendance Matters
Attendance is very important! Let's finish this year out by showing up to show off what we have learned!!
"Be Here to Get There!!!"
Daily instruction builds on the prior days instruction. Tardy or absent students often find they
miss out on valuable instruction needed to keep up with classmates.
Chronic Absenteeism = 10% or 18 excused or unexcused absences per school year.
After 12 Excused OR Unexcused Absences a Doctor's Note is required.
Our Student Support Team is here to work with you on problem
solving non-health related attendance issues.
Policies and Procedures
*Doors open at 8:30 a.m.
*School Day begins at 8:55 a.m.
*Dismissal begins at 3:25 p.m.
*No Early Dismissals after 3:15 p.m.
Breakfast and lunch are available to students free of charge. Students must be on time for
breakfast.
If your child is tardy, you will need to walk them into the building to sign them in.
If your child is absent, please remember to send in a note stating the reasons for their
absence when they return to school. If your child is sick and seen by a physician, please
request a note from their office. If you are picking up your child for an Early Dismissal, you must show a valid ID.
Per WCPS Wellness Policy unhealthy/sugary snacks (cupcakes) are not permitted for student
birthdays/celebrations. If you wish to provide a healthy snack to celebrate your child's
birthday, please make arrangements with your child's teacher prior to dropping the item off at
the front office. Other celebratory items, such as balloons and flowers, are not appropriate for
the school setting. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
Ongoing communication is vital to a successful school year, feel free to reach out to your
child's teacher anytime. However, please remember teachers are with students most of the
day and may not be able to accept your phone call right away. Remind and/or email are great
ways to communicate with your child's teacher.
MCAP Testing
From May 6th until the end of the month, students in Grades 3-5 will be taking the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) tests. These are vital academic assessments that not only show how our students are doing amongst their peers, but how Salem Avenue is doing as a school compared to other schools within Washington County and the state of Maryland. As these tests are vital tools, it is important that your students are prepared. For students in grades PK through 2nd, it is important for them to be extra quiet and courteous in the hallway as they travel to and from encore or the lunch room, so that testing students are able to concentrate. For students that will be testing during May, it is paramount that students are in school and on time during the testing period. Students who are late will miss out on breakfast, and students that miss testing sessions due to absences or tardies will have to make up those sessions during the testing window. Students who complete all of their testing by May 28th will be rewarded for their commitment and perseverance with a trip to the brand new Meritus Park Ballpark to watch Hagerstown's newest professional team, The Flying Boxcars! Make sure your Saber can be here so they can get there!!!
Grade Level News
Look here to see all of the awesome learning that will be happening in your child's classroom this month!!
Pre K:
- This month your child will be learning:
- Reading: Tell how the illustrations support the story or text.
- Word Work: Continue to learn letter sounds and correct formation of letters.
- Writing: Continue to write sentences with spacing and period. Participate in a shared writing project.
- Math: Continue to represent simple addition and subtraction problems and decompose quantities less than 5 and continue to compare quantities from 1-5.
- Ways you can help:
- When reading, encourage your child to look and discuss the illustrations and photos. How do the illustrations help you to read and better understand the story?
- Pose simply math problems and ask your child to solve the problem by acting out the math stories, drawing it on paper, or using objects.
Kindergarten:
- Phonics: Students will learn about capital letters. They will learn new tricky words. Students will practice using their knowledge of letter sounds to read stories and write to answer questions about what they read.
Reading: Students will read to learn about how we can take care of the Earth.
Social Studies: Students will learn about economics. They will learn about natural and human productive resources in school. They will learn why those resources are limited. They will learn about choices humans make due to limited resources.
Math: We will review everything we have learned this year in math. We will practice counting to 100 by 1’s and 10’s, writing numbers 1-20, and adding and subtracting within 10.
First Grade:
- CKLA Knowledge: Students will be introduced to early exploration of the American West and learn about key figures such as Daniel Boone, Lewis and Clark, and Sacagawea. They learn how colonists spread westward, including their struggles and successes and their interactions with native peoples.
- CKLA Skills: Students will continue to learn the advanced code, focusing on spelling alternatives for vowel sounds. (Grade 1 Spelling Tree Document) In addition, students will learn about the use of conjunctions and commas as well as noun-verb agreement in sentences. Students will practice the writing process by planning, drafting, and editing an informative/explanatory text.
- Math: Students will Partition circles and rectangles into two and four equal pieces, describe the pieces with words (halves, fourths, and quarters). Students will also tell and write time in hours and half-hours.
Science: Students will use text and media to determine patterns in behavior of parents and offspring that help offspring survive. Students will also make observations to construct an evidence-based account that young plants and animals are like, but not exactly like their parents. As well as use materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs. We will also be exploring the lifecycle of the pillbug.
First Grade will also be going on a field trip to the South Mountain Creamery this month to learn about the production process from Cow to Ice Cream.
Second Grade:
- CKLA Knowledge: Students will be learning about Immigration. This domain will introduce students to the concept of immigration in the United States, an especially important topic because the United States is often referred to as a country of immigrants. Students will learn about the biggest wave of immigration to the United States, which occurred between 1880 and 1920. They will discover why people immigrated, what factors pushed them from their homelands and pulled them to the United States, and why many immigrants settled in particular cities or regions upon their arrival. These basic facts about immigration will help students further their awareness of U.S. history. Learning about immigration to the United States is also an opportunity for students from immigrant families to find out more about their family history and what brought them and/or their ancestors to the United States
- CKLA Skills: The tricky spellings ‘ea,’ ‘ar,’ ‘or,’ ‘i,’ and ‘a’ are taught in this unit. This unit is devoted to introducing several new spelling alternatives for vowel and consonant sounds.
- Math: In this unit, students develop an understanding of equal groups, building on their experiences with skip-counting and with finding the sums of equal addends. The work here serves as the foundation for multiplication and division in grade 3 and beyond. Students begin by analyzing even and odd numbers of objects. They learn that any even number can be split into 2 equal groups or into groups of 2, with no objects left over. Students use visual patterns to identify whether numbers of objects are even or odd. Next, students learn about rectangular arrays. They describe arrays using mathematical terms (rows and columns). Students see the total number of objects as a sum of the objects in each row and as a sum of the objects in each column, which they express by writing equations with equal addends. They also recognize that there are many ways of seeing the equal groups in an array. Later, students transition from working with arrays containing discrete objects to equal-size squares within a rectangle. They build rectangular arrays using inch tiles and partition rectangles into rows and columns of equal-size squares. The work here sets the stage for the concept of area in grade 3.
- Science: Students will make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
Third Grade:
- Reading: In Unit 10, Living in Colonial America, students will read a collection of stories and informational texts about different colonies in early America. The story selections are historical fiction and each is told from a child’s point of view, just as the selections were in Native American Stories. How each colony was started and what life was like when people first arrived are described in the chapters, as well as progress made in the few years after the land was initially settled. Students will notice the similarities and differences among the colonies. Colonies in North Carolina, Virginia, South Carolina, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania are described. Click the link to access Unit 10 Family Letters in English and Spanish.
- Students will explore the Unit Essential Question and Lesson Guiding Questions:
- How did North American exploration lead to the development of Colonies?
- How did the Powhatan react to the settlers arriving from England?
- How were the Pilgrims and Puritans similar and different?
- How did different colonies develop unique characteristics.
- The nonfiction Reader for Unit 11, entitled Introduction to Ecology, consists of selections that will further students’ understanding of habitats and ecosystems, the environment, and food chains. Aspects of ecosystems and the balance of nature are explained as well as producers, consumers, and decomposers in food chains. In addition, how the environment changes both naturally and as a result of human actions is described. Later chapters focus on protecting and preserving the environment and important natural resources. A biography of John Muir is also included. Click the link to access Unit 11 Family Letters in English and Spanish.
- Math: Unit 8 is our last one in 3rd grade. This unit asks students to put it all together- they will consolidate and solidify their understanding of the various skills related to our work over the course of the year: fractions, multiplication, division, Base-10 concepts, area, perimeter, and attributes of quadrilaterals. Students will also continue to work toward the fluency goals of multiplying and dividing fluently within 100. Here are the links to the family support materials in English and Spanish, as well as the Unit 8 video.
Fourth Grade:
- STATE TESTING WILL BE May 6 - May 17th! Please be sure your child is here every day and has a good night of sleep.
- Reading: We began our last unit called Treasure Island. In this unit, students will explore the genre of fiction through a classic novel, Treasure Island. Students will read an abridged version of Treasure Island. This novel chronicles the adventures of the young narrator, Jim Hawkins, who discovers a treasure map when an old pirate stays at his family's inn. Students will focus on character development, setting, and plot as well as literary devices. They will also discover other relevant aspects of the text, such as geography, pirates, and sailing. In this unit, students will continue to practice the various stages of the writing process. They will write and publish an original adventure story, incorporating character development and dialogue.
- Ask your student questions about the unit:
- Who are some of the important characters you have been introduced to in Treasure Island so far?
- What is the setting of the story? Use descriptive words.
- What significant events have happened in the story so far?
- You have learned about the word stun in this unit. What does it mean?
- What is a simile? Can you give me an example of a simile?
- You have been learning about conflict as a literary device used by authors. Can you give me an example of conflict in Treasure Island?
- Math: We are thrilled to share the progress our fourth-grade students have made in math this year. From mastering fractions and multi-digit multiplication to exploring geometry and measurement, their growth has been truly notable.
- To support your child's success, here are some steps you can take at home to review key math concepts:
Review Fractions: Spend time reviewing concepts such as equivalent fractions, comparing fractions, and operations like addition and multiplication with fractions. Practice solving fraction problems together to reinforce these skills.
Practice Multi-Digit Multiplication and Division: Encourage your child to practice multi-digit multiplication and division problems to strengthen their computational skills. Focus on using strategies such as the standard algorithm and partial products.
Explore Geometry Concepts: Take the opportunity to explore geometry concepts together, such as identifying geometric shapes, measuring angles, and discussing features like symmetry. Engage in hands-on activities to make learning geometry fun and interactive.
Your partnership is invaluable, and together, we can ensure our students excel in math and beyond
- Band: Students will present their Spring Concert on Thursday, May 30, at 6:30 PM here at Salem Avenue Elementary. They are nervous and excited to showcase the progress they have made so far with their instruments. Email details were sent out in February, so if you have not heard from me yet this year, please send a note to Mrs. Winters at wintegwe@wcps.k12.md.us
Fifth Grade:
- Reading: We will begin the month by reviewing test taking strategies to best prepare students for their MCAP State Tests for ELA. Students will be receiving points each day of testing, to earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze status of rewards to happen later in the month. Students will be receiving their personalized schedule of testing days in class during the week of April 29th.
- ELA MCAP State Testing will occur: May 6th-9th and May 20th-23rd.
- Social Studies: Students will be defining civil rights and their importance to life in the United States, analyzing methods used by individuals and/or groups throughout the 20th century to contribute to the advancement of civil rights for all people and exploring how federal law, Constitutional amendments and the Supreme Court have extended and protected civil rights. Students will also be analyzing examples of the media upholding a free and democratic society, analyzing how interpretations of First Amendment rights to speech and press have changed over time, and developing critical media literacy and online civic literacy skills as they pertain to being an informed citizen in the 21st century.
- Science: Students have been learning about space! Students will be learning about the flow of matter (in ecosystems and plant systems) and energy within living systems in the upcoming investigations. Through hands-on experiments the students will use evidence to support an argument about the movement of matter in plant systems. Additionally, they will develop a model to demonstrate their understanding of the transfer of energy in living systems.
- Math: Students are reviewing for the MCAP State Test. They will be testing in their selected groups between May 6th-May 24th. Please encourage your students to be present for review and testing.
- Band: Students will present their Spring Concert on Monday, May 20 at 6:30pm at Rockland Woods Elementary. The kids are excited to perform the last concert of their Elementary school career and showcase the progress they have made with their instruments. Email details were sent out in February, so if you have not heard from me yet this year, please send a note to Mrs. Winters at wintegwe@wcps.k12.md.us.
Team Tiger News
Word of the Month
Last month's word was Patience. Students show that they are Patient by using mindfulness strategies and calming breaths learned this schoolyear. The challenge for the month was a classroom challenge. Each class was challenged to create an artifact (video, poster, scroll, sign, etc.) that demonstrated the importance of mindfulness strategies. Created artifacts were shown on the morning announcements and classrooms earned extra recess time that was held on alternative playground or location on the school grounds.
Our word for May is Commitment. Salem Sabers will demonstrate that they are Committed to their education by showing up for school every day in the month of May. For each grade, the class with the highest attendance percentage for the month will win an extra special outside recess or game with an Administrator!
This year our Salem Sabers demonstrated everything that makes up a great Friendship! Our Sabers were Kind to each other and were Committed to remembering to be Respectful and Responsible. They exemplified Gratitude when they showed their Patience and Generosity to their friends and teachers. They showed Integrity by remembering to demonstrate Peacefulness, even when they were feeling frustrated or overwhelmed. Let’s take a moment to applaud all of our Salem Sabers for continuing to show that this is truly The Place to Be!!!
Student of the Month
Pre-Kindergarten- Karsyn, Miles, Londyn, Kaylie
Kindergarten- Cameron, Liam, Ava, Dumo, Jamilet
1st Grade- Annabella, Zara, Ezana, Lamont, Diamond
2nd Grade- Emma, Aloni, Killian, Krystal, Celia
3rd Grade- Hian, Chloe, Chloe, Angel, Hunter, Radley
4th Grade- Cinthia, Gracie, Amanda, Corden, Kaleena
5th Grade- Mayzie, Quinn, Carielys, Kolton, Chaveya, Jaylen
Congratulations to all these amazing students who exemplify why The 1323 is "the Place to Be!!!"
Title I/Community School Events
May Reading Bingo Challenge
This month your child will be coming home with a Reading BINGO Challenge form. Students will work towards earning bingo (5 in a row-horizontally, vertically, or diagonally). Students have until the end of May to complete bingo cards & will turn in their completed bingo card with their name written on it. Parents/guardians please help keep track of the bingo cards & activities they have completed! Students that turn in a completed challenge will win a book to keep! Practicing reading at home helps to develop an increased interest in reading and is shown to lead to academic success. Also, it’s a great activity to do as a family!
Craft & Croissant
Join us Friday May 10th at 7:45 AM for a morning family event. Families will enjoy crafting a beautiful and creative bouquet of flowers and have a continental breakfast together. This event will feature information on the various community summer programs that are available to all members of our Salem Saber families! If you are trying to map out your summer plans, or just looking to make some fun family memories, you are going to want to be here for this event!
Please make sure to RSVP by Tuesday, May 7th.
5th Grade Transition Night for WHMS
5th grade families, you are invited to join us on Thursday, May 16th at 6pm to get ready for the transition to middle school! Administrators, teachers, and support staff from Western Heights Middle School will be here at Salem to help families understand the changes their students are about to embark on this upcoming fall! If you are looking for information on all the exciting opportunities that Western Heights and middle school offer, have questions, or are finding that you or your child is feeling anxious or confused about the transition to middle school, this is the night to come out and ask them! Let's help our Sabers get ready to grow into Grizzlies!
After the Bell Showcase
As we wind down the year, we want to invite families of students enrolled in After the Bell to our fourth and final showcase of the year, to be held Thursday May 23rd, at 4:15 PM. Come see the awesome work & displays your students did for this session of after the bell. Asking parents/guardians to arrive at the school at 4:15 pm. This showcase will be held outdoors shine or rain. A light dinner will be provided for students and families present.
Mobily Food Pantry Pickup
The Robert W. Johnson Community Center in collaboration with the Maryland Food Bank offers a monthly Mobile Food Pantry. On Friday, May 24th from 11 AM-2 PM families may walk or drive to the Community Center which is located at 109 W North Avenue in Hagerstown and pick up food.
Note: Clients wishing to participate MUST show a form of identification (State ID, Utility Bill, Mail) and sign in to acknowledge participation in the Maryland Food Bank Program.
Micah's Backpack Program
Salem Avenue is very fortunate to participate in the Micah’s Backpack weekend food
supplement program sponsored by The Hagerstown Area Religious Council. This program
provides students in need with a bag of food and snacks every Friday to be enjoyed over the
weekend. The bags also contain extra food for long weekends and holiday breaks. If you are interested in your child participating in the Micah's Program, please contact
Asher Kennedy Title I School Family Liaison at kenneash@wcps.k12.md.us or 301-766-8313.
HARC Resource List
Hagerstown Area Religious Council, the organization that sponsors the Micah's Backpack Program throughout all of our Washington County Schools has recently updated their resource list. This list includes the many food banks and pantries, as well as resources related to Mental Health, Clothing and Hygiene Products, and the betterment of all of Washington County's many citizens. Please check the list out HERE.
Learning Lending Library
Summer heat have you wanting some indoor fun? Looking for ways to practice skills at home? Have bored kids who want something different to do? Check out Salem Avenue's Learning Libraries. Located inside the front lobby, we have math games with skills from basic number awareness, up to complex operations! There are also Learning Labs, which are all contained within blue drawstring bags. These Learning Labs are centered around a given topic and include Books in both English and Spanish, bookmarks and a card of facts around the topic, and two activities for kids to do with their families at home. Our Learning Lab subjects are Healthy Eating, Dinosaurs and Archeology! Both the Math Games and the Learning Labs are available on a first-come-first serve basis inside the front lobby. Located below the secretary's window. Make sure to check them out!
Note: Please make sure if you borrow a math game or Learning Lab, that you return it when you are finished so that other families may enjoy the fun of learning at home!
About Salem Avenue Elementary
Principal: Thomas Garner
Assistant Principals: Cory Baker and Colleen McCray
Email: kenneash@wcps.k12.md.us
Website: http://salemavenue.weebly.com/
Location: 1323 Salem Avenue, Hagerstown, MD, USA
Phone: 3017668313
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/salem.avenue.9?mibextid=LQQJ4d
If you are interested in being part of our decision making committee, or are in need of assistance or information on our many community resources and partners, contact either Asher Kennedy, Title I School Family Liaison at kenneash@wcps.k12.md.us or Dominic Gianninoto,
Community School Specialist at gianndom@wcps.k12.md.us.
Key #2: Communicating of Epstein’s Six Types of Involvement
If you prefer a paper copy of the newsletter, contact Asher Kennedy, Title I School Family
Liaison, at 301-766-8313 or via email at kenneash@wcps.k12.md.us.