The Weekly Update #4

I hope that your break has been wonderful! Recently I was finishing up some shopping, and out of the corner of my eye, I saw a sweet student watching me. I waved at the student, and he shyly waved back at me. It was a pretty innocent moment. I asked him if he was having a good break, and he nodded his head. I think that being a young student, and seeing someone from the school outside of the school is a little confusing! As this student and his family walked away, I reflected on the many "students" that have impacted my life. A simple math problem includes my 20 years as an educator, 7 of those at two schools with 500 students in each school as an instructional coach, and two of those at our school. If I added those students that I have worked with, in some capacity, that means that I have worked with over 2,000 students. I have learned humor, resilience, tenacity, compassion, and how to have that "teacher look." Additionally, I have worked with parents that have expressed sorrow, gratitude, and concern. I am better because of these youth and parents that have been part of my life. To watch a child learn, connect with talents, and move forward with strong goals is amazing. Thank you for your support and your trust in our wonderful teachers. They work hard and they have so much compassion. January is a wonderful time to recommit to our academic goals and move forward strong with our year! Thank you for all that you do!

LEADERSHIP IN PTA NEEDED

Our current PTA is finishing their time in the current leadership roles. They are in need of replacements. There are many benefits of having a PTA at our school. The following positions are currently open for replacement.

President: Oversees and conducts all meetings. Creates each months agenda. Leads discussion with the principal and teacher rep at monthly 1 hour meeting. Helps facilitate activities. Makes phone calls for donations.

Secretary: Takes minutes at each meeting. Helps facilitate activities. Assists in any way the group needs. Makes phone calls.

Treasurer: in charge of all financial paperwork. Holds the checks and does end of year taxes (super easy). Helps facilitate activities.

HOW PTA SUPPORTS OUR SCHOOL

Fundraising (Within the last 5 years, our PTA has purchased: Swing set for the playground, large arch for school assemblies and activities, buddy benches, maturation kits for 5th grade, matching funds for teacher wish lists and supplies for classroom student rewards (games, etc.), emergency kits in classrooms, books and treats for Books and Buddies, and many more things!

Books and Buddies

Spirit Week Winners

Reflections Contest

School Shirts

Fall Fundraiser

Field Day

Many Hands Make Light Work

DREAMER'S WEEK AT ORCHARD HILLS ELEMENTARY - Jan. 13 - Jan. 17

This week, our students will focus on their "DREAMS." Each day we will focus on a different perspective of "dreaming, and we will focus on this during the monthly Principal Read Aloud.

D - Jan. 13 (DRESS UP DAY - DRESS AS YOUR FUTURE SELF)

• I DECIDE MY FUTURE

R - Jan. 14

• REALIZE MY POTENTIAL

E - Jan. 15

• EXPECT THE BEST FROM ME

A - Jan 16

• ATTITUDE CHANGES DREAMS INTO REALITY

M - Jan. 17

• MAKE THINGS HAPPEN ONE DAY AT A TIME

You may not be aware that the United Way has started a chapter organization in Payson, Utah. This incredible organization offers after school activities for families, and is free of charge. Some of their current offerings include:

Computer Coding (computers and internet provided at the program)

Piano Lessons

Guitar Lessons (guitar at the program)

Support with homework/reading

Day Activities for Young Children

Many of these programs are directed from an affiliation through Thanksgiving Point as well as through BYU students.

"The Payson Community Center is a place where local students and families can thrive through early education, literacy, and STEM classes - available in both English and Spanish. We also focus on providing mental health support and creating new opportunities for the entire community."

If you want to provide incredible opportunities for your child outside of school, this is a wonderful way that the community can support you!

January 13-17 - Dreamer's Week

January 20 - No School, Martin Luther King Day

February 10-14 - Caught You Caring Week

February 17 - No School, President's Day