Principal Weekly Update to Families

Hello Prairie Panther Families!

My name is Mrs. Fowler and I am looking forward to a new school year as your Assistant Principal. This is my second year as Assistant Principal at Prairie. As many of you know, I share my time with McKenna and Mill Pond Elementary schools too. This is my 15th year in Yelm Community Schools and each year gets more exciting. I am happy to return this year and excited to see all the great things happening in our school. Let's have a Prairietastic year!

Becki Fowler

Assistant Principal

Pre-orders are now being accepted for 2023–24 Prairie Yearbooks. Order now and save money! Pre-orders are $20 and due by October 13. Yearbooks will go on sale again in the spring; however, the cost will increase to $25. Order forms can be found on our website and are available in the office.

This week students from the Prairie Preschool program began their learning journey. We look forward to watching them learn and grow in the 2023–24 school year! Welcome little Panthers!

Each month students and staff will focus on a new character trait with new learning given each week to what that trait means. Daily, during announcements, Ms. Benny will share a message on the Character Trait of the Month. September's character trait is focusing on "responsibility." Below is this week's message shared during our Morning Announcements.

"People who are responsible always try their best, never make excuses, and are respectful to others. Kids who are responsible do what they are supposed to do and don’t wait for a grown up to ask them."

Prairie Elementary has three amazing Kindergarten teachers on staff — Debbie Bartram, Jeanette Burnham, and Amy Ziesemer! Together these ladies have 62 years of teaching experience. When asked about their classroom philosophy, they were quick to share their favorite quote by D Jump. “Children should leave each day of school with a smile on their face and a story in their heart.” Thank you, Kinder teachers, for helping our littlest students discover the joy of learning!

• September 28: First Day of Popcorn! Flyers went home earlier this week. It's not too late if you wish to purchase a punch card. PTO is not accepting payment by check. Additional order forms are in our office. Parent volunteers are needed (and appreciated) to assist on Popcorn Thursdays!
• October 2: Prairie PTO General Meeting, 5:30–7:30 p.m. in the Prairie gymnasium. The general meeting agenda includes: Watch D.O.G.S. information and Title 1!
• October 28: "Save the Date" for the Prairie Halloween Carnival — Watch for further information!

PTO doesn't exist without the participation of parents and teachers! Time commitments vary. To find out more information on how you can volunteer with upcoming projects, email yelmprairiepto@gmail.com.

At Prairie Elementary, we enjoy honoring students on their birthdays. We will announce student birthdays during the morning announcements and each student will receive a birthday ribbon and birthday pencil from the school. Our school takes great pride in making each child feel special on their birthday. If you would like to send something special, please follow these guidelines.

Distribution of sugary treats is prohibited. If you would like to bring a birthday snack to share, healthy snacks that are commercially wrapped, such as pretzels, baked crackers, or granola bars will be accepted; however, we ask that you consider gifting the classroom a book, or small school supplies such as pencils, erasers, or stickers instead of any food item.

**Important** Do not send cupcakes, doughnuts, or sugary treats for your child’s birthday.

Is your child age 3 to 4 and interested in being part of the Peer Model Developmental Preschool Program? Learn more about eligibility and requirements. Accepting applications starting July 1.

• Wednesday, September 27: Late start—buses will pick up students one-hour later than normal schedule. Classes begin at 9:35 a.m.
• Thursday, September 28: PTO Popcorn Day!
• Friday, September 29: Prairie Assembly, 8:40 a.m.
• Sunday, October 1: Begins Crime Prevention Month, Disability History and Awareness Month, National Bullying and Prevention Month, and National Principals Month.
• Friday, October 6: No school.Teacher Training Day.