Hawk Happenings: Parent Newsletter

Dear Parents and Families,

We are excited to welcome you and your child back for another amazing school year at St. Helena Early Learning Center! As we prepare to begin this journey together, our team is energized and committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for all of our learners.

Our school theme this year is “Ready... Set... Grow!” — a reminder that each day is a new opportunity to plant seeds of knowledge, character, and confidence in every child. We look forward to partnering with you to ensure that your child thrives academically, socially, and emotionally.

Here are a few reminders as we get started:

• First Day of School: August 5th

• School Hours: 8am - 3:30pm

• Meet & Greet/Orientation: August 1st from 1-3pm

• Uniform Expectations & Supply Lists: Included below

Please be on the lookout for more information from your child’s teacher and our school throughout the year. As always, we welcome your involvement and encourage open communication.

Let’s make this year a great one — full of learning, growth, and joy!

Warm regards,

Mrs. Smith

The mission of the St. Helena Early Learning Center is to foster a culture of literacy and numeracy through small group and multi-sensory learning experiences that support learner success and promote strong community engagement

• Prioritize phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.

• Use CKLA, DIBELS, and Amira to monitor and support reading growth.

• Build number sense and problem-solving using Zearn and hands-on strategies.

• Emphasize conceptual understanding with math talks and models.

3. HQIM Implementation

• Teach CKLA and Zearn with fidelity and consistent lesson internalization.
• Align instruction to standards and curriculum pacing guides.

4. Data-Driven Instruction

• Use assessment data to group learners and adjust instruction.
• Monitor progress through iReady, DIBELS, and classroom checks.

5. Developmentally Appropriate Practice

• Integrate academics with play, movement, and SEL.
• Support learner engagement through routines and interactive centers.

6. Differentiation

• Scaffold instruction to meet individual needs.
• Use flexible groups, visuals, and supports for all learners.

7. Vocabulary & Oral Language

• Teach key vocabulary daily.
• Provide frequent opportunities for structured conversation.

8. Clarity & Ownership

• Use child-friendly learning targets and success criteria.
• Encourage goal setting and self-reflection.

Our District Vision is to create an equitable, productive school culture that increases learner success, develops educator effectiveness and builds public confidence.