This Week @PS 88Q
October 18th, 2026
A Message From Mrs. O'Shaughnessy
Staying connected with our families has always been one of my highest priorities. One of the ways I do that is through our weekly family newsletter, something I am happy to say I have not missed in many years. In fact, this tradition began during the pandemic as a way to keep our school community informed, connected, and supported. Since then, many of newsletters have been shared, and they are all archived as a record of the incredible learning, celebrations, and experiences that have taken place at The Seneca School.
One of the reasons I have remained committed to using Smore for our newsletter is because it helps ensure that all families have access to important information. The platform can translate content into more than 50 languages, making it easier for families to read updates in the language they are most comfortable using. It is also designed with accessibility features that help make our communications available to all members of our school community. As a diverse school with families who speak many different languages, that accessibility and inclusivity matter deeply to me.
Today, however, I experienced an unexpected technology challenge. For reasons I am still trying to determine, the Smore account I have been using to create and distribute our newsletters was suddenly blocked. After a little troubleshooting and the creation of a brand-new account, we are back online!
The good news is that the newsletter will continue without interruption. The bad news is that the mailing list connected to the previous account may have been lost. Oh no!
To make sure you continue receiving our weekly newsletter directly in your inbox, please take a moment to complete the form below and add your email address to our new mailing list: Newsletter Email Sign-Up – Fill out form
I will continue sharing the newsletter through NYCPS Messenger, posting it on our school website, and providing it to teachers as always. However, signing up through the link above will help me rebuild our mailing list and ensure that you continue receiving the newsletter directly each week.
Thank you for your patience and support. Maintaining strong communication between home and school is incredibly important to me, and I remain committed to keeping our families informed, connected, and engaged in all of the wonderful things happening at PS 88Q.
Have a Great Week!
It is Time For the Caring Closet
At P.S. 88Q, we believe that caring for one another is an important part of building a strong school community. Our annual Caring Closet helps provide clothing and essential items to students and families who may need a little extra support throughout the year.
We are now accepting donations and would be grateful for any contributions. Families who would like to donate may drop off items in the main lobby during school hours.
Donations of new or gently used children's clothing, coats, hats, gloves, scarves, and other family essentials are always appreciated.
Every donation, big or small, helps us ensure that members of our school community have access to the items they need. Thank you for helping us continue this tradition of kindness, generosity, and support for one another.
Donation Drop-Off Location: Main Lobby
Together, we can make a difference for our Seneca School families. 💙💛
Fall Festival
Annual Title I Meeting
At P.S. 88Q, we value our partnership with families and believe that parents and caregivers are essential members of our school community. As a Title I school, we are required to hold an Annual Title I Parent Meeting to provide families with important information about our school's programs and resources.
During this meeting, families will learn about:
✅ What it means to be a Title I school
✅ How Title I funds support students and families at P.S. 88Q
✅ Our school's academic goals and priorities
✅ Curriculum and assessment information
✅ Family engagement opportunities throughout the year
✅ Parents' rights under Title I
✅ The School-Parent Compact and Parent and Family Engagement Policy
✅ How families can provide input and help shape school programs and initiatives
This meeting is an opportunity to learn more about the programs that support student success and to ask questions about our school's plans, services, and resources.
We strongly encourage all families to attend and participate in this important conversation. Working together, we can continue to ensure that every child at The Seneca School has access to high-quality learning experiences and the support they need to thrive.
Date: October 28, 2026
Time: 9am
Location: PS 88Q
We look forward to seeing you there and partnering with you throughout the school year!
PTA/PAC Meeting
We warmly invite all PS 88Q families to attend our monthly PTA and Parent Advisory Council (PAC) Meeting on Thursday, October 22.
These meetings are a wonderful opportunity to stay informed about school initiatives, learn about upcoming events, hear important updates, and share your ideas and feedback. Strong family-school partnerships help us create the very best learning environment for our children, and your voice is an important part of that work.
During this month's meeting, families will receive updates about:
- School programs and upcoming events
- Family engagement opportunities
- PTA activities and initiatives
- School priorities and student learning
- Ways families can become involved and support our school community
Whether you are a returning family or new to The Seneca School, we encourage you to join us. Your participation helps strengthen our community and ensures that we continue working together to support every student.
Middle Schools Admissions and Open Houses
Shout Outs
One of the things that makes PS 88Q such a special place is the kindness, generosity, and support we show one another every day. We'd love to take a moment to celebrate the staff members, families, and community members who make a difference in our school.
Has a staff member gone above and beyond? Has a staff member brightened your day? Has a family helped out, volunteered, or shown kindness to another member of our community?
We invite you to submit a Seneca Shout-Out and help us recognize the people who make our school such a warm and welcoming place. Selected shout-outs may be featured in future newsletters!