Dear Parents,

I hope this message finds you well. As we continue to explore exciting and innovative ways to engage and educate our students, I would like to take a moment to highlight the many benefits of using drones and RC cars in our classroom activities.

1. Encouraging STEM Learning:
Both drones and RC cars offer a hands-on approach to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Students can learn about aerodynamics, robotics, coding, and mechanical engineering in a practical, interactive way. These activities encourage problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity, which are essential skills for their future success.

2. Enhancing Teamwork and Collaboration:
Many drone and RC car activities require students to work together, fostering important skills in communication, teamwork, and leadership. Collaborating on projects where they can brainstorm, plan, and execute will help students learn to work effectively with others, a skill that will serve them well in all areas of life.

3. Promoting Hands-On Learning and Engagement:
Using drones and RC cars allows students to apply theoretical concepts in real-world situations. The excitement of controlling these devices enhances engagement, making learning both fun and meaningful. The interactive nature of these activities increases students’ attention and helps to retain information more effectively.

4. Building Confidence and Independence:
Operating drones and RC cars helps students develop new skills that require focus and concentration. Successfully controlling these devices builds confidence and a sense of accomplishment. As they overcome challenges and refine their techniques, students gain a sense of independence and self-assurance.

5. Expanding Career Exploration:
Introducing drones and RC cars opens students’ minds to the wide range of careers in fields such as engineering, design, aviation, and robotics. By providing them with early exposure to these industries, we are helping to inspire the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.

We are excited to incorporate these activities into our curriculum and look forward to seeing your child’s growth and development as they explore the exciting world of drones and RC cars. If you have any questions or would like more information, please feel free to reach out.

Thank you for your continued support!

We are excited to share some wonderful news about a new initiative that will enrich our students' learning experience—our gardening program, made possible by the innovative Geodome greenhouse at our school!

Gardening is more than just planting seeds; it’s a hands-on, engaging way for children to explore the natural world, develop responsibility, and foster a sense of connection to the environment. With the help of our Geodome greenhouse, students will have the opportunity to grow a variety of plants, from vegetables to flowers, all while learning valuable lessons in science, math, and even art.

The Geodome greenhouse provides a unique environment that allows our students to observe plant growth up close, understand the role of sunlight, water, and soil, and witness the entire lifecycle of plants. This experience strengthens their understanding of ecosystems and the environment, helping them develop a deep respect for nature and sustainability.

In addition to science learning, gardening encourages the development of key skills such as teamwork, patience, and problem-solving. Students will also enjoy the sensory experience of working with soil, plants, and fresh air, which has been shown to improve mental well-being and boost creativity.

We hope this program will not only deepen our students’ academic understanding but also inspire them to become stewards of the earth and develop a lifelong love of nature. We encourage you to talk with your child about the exciting experiences they’ll have in the garden and perhaps even try out some gardening activities at home together.

Thank you for your continued support in making our school a vibrant and enriching place for learning. We look forward to seeing the wonderful growth, both in our plants and in our students, throughout this year!

Dear Parents,

We’re excited to share a creative project with your child that combines art, technology, and design! We will be exploring book nooks—miniature, decorated spaces that fit between books on a shelf and bring stories to life.

As part of this project, students will:
🎨 Use paints and other artistic techniques to personalize their book nooks.
💻 Learn basic CAD (computer-aided design) programs to create custom elements.
🖨️ Experiment with 3D printing to add small, detailed objects to their designs.
🔆 Utilize our Glowforge laser cutter to craft intricate wood and acrylic pieces.

This is a wonderful opportunity for students to mix creativity with STEM skills while making something they can treasure! If you have any questions or would like to support the project, please let us know.

Thank you for your support!

Dear Parents/Guardians,

I hope this message finds you well! At Sunset Elementary, we are always looking for meaningful ways to connect classroom learning to the real world. With that in mind, I would invite you to participate in an exciting opportunity to inspire our students.

We are inviting parents to visit our classroom and share insights about their careers. This is a wonderful chance for students to learn about the variety of professions that exist, the rewards of pursuing a passion, and the challenges that come with different occupations.

Here’s what we’re asking for:

• A brief presentation (10–15 minutes) about your career, including the daily responsibilities, education/training required, and skills that are important for success.

• Insight into the rewards and challenges you experience in your job.

• Time for a short Q&A session where students can ask questions.

Our goal is to give students an understanding of the many paths they can take in the future while highlighting the importance of education and hard work.

If you are interested in participating, please email me at jkrubeck@park6.org and we will find a time that works for you.

Thank you for considering this opportunity to enrich our students’ learning. Your stories and experiences could be the spark that ignites a student’s future career!