North Star News
September 18, 2026
Dear North Star Community,
Welcome to another exciting week at school! As we settle into our daily routines, I want to gently remind everyone that drop-off and pick-up times bring heavy traffic to our surrounding streets. To protect our children, the City has installed a dedicated loading and unloading lane. Please ensure you use this designated lane every day; double parking creates a serious hazard by forcing students to walk between active lines of cars. Additionally, if you park across the street, please help us model safe habits by using marked crosswalks. Our crossing guards are always eager to help your child cross safely. I know you join me in prioritizing our students' well-being over saving a few minutes in line!
I also invite you to join us this coming Tuesday right after drop-off in Room 108 for Dr. Rubalcaba's Listening and Learning Tour. This will be a wonderful opportunity to welcome Dr. Rubalcaba to the North Star community and engage in meaningful discussions about our shared experiences, priorities, and partnerships.
Finally, please join me in wishing our 5th graders a fantastic trip as they head off to Outdoor Education next week! We know they will have an unforgettable time making lifelong memories and exploring hands-on science in nature.
Thank you for your ongoing support, partnership, and commitment to keeping our campus safe!
Sincerely,
Erin Kekos
Principal, North Star
FALL FESTIVAL!
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The biggest event of the year!
WHO: EVERYONE! Bring family and friends!
WHEN: Fri, Oct 2nd, 5-8pm on the school blacktop
WHAT: Games, crafts, face painting, airbrush tattoo, photo booth, food trucks, and prizes!
- Buy discounted Unlimited Play Wristbands for only $8 per child! A wristband opens access to all the kid activities. Pick-up wristbands at Will-Call at the event.
- Volunteers crucially needed the day-of to make this event a success!
- If you have 30 minutes or more to spare, please sign-up!
🔸 Questions? Email events@nsaparents.com
MASTER THE MIX, LIGHTS, & SETS
Fall Play Tech Crew Members Needed!
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WHO: Middle School Scholars
WHEN: Apply by 9/30
COMMITMENT: 10/31-11/8
- We're recruiting 6th-8th grade students for the tech crew for our fall play, "The Day the Internet Died." This is a great opportunity to be part of theater without being on stage.
- Being a tech crew member is a significant but rewarding commitment. The time commitment includes rehearsals and performances over one busy week from Saturday, October 31st, through Sunday, November 8th.
- For more information on the different roles and to apply, please refer to the Fall Play Tech Crew Information document. Application deadline is 9/30.
Want to take your support a step further?
Join the Navigator’s Circle.
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The Navigator’s Circle is more than a giving level—it’s a statement of belief in what’s possible when we come together for our students.
By donating $1,100 per student, or $2,200 for families with 2+ students, you’re helping provide the programs, staff, and resources that give every student the opportunity to Think. Create. Climb.
Why It Matters
- Think Bigger — Leadership-level gifts help expand opportunities and experiences that benefit our entire school community.
- Create More Possibilities — Your support helps bridge the gap between what traditional funding provides and what our students need to learn, grow, and thrive.
- Climb Together — When families step up together, we can reach our fundraising goal and continue building the vibrant, inclusive, and innovative school experience our students deserve.
Note: Navigator’s Circle recognition is based on personal contributions only. Company matching funds do not count toward this giving level, as matching benefits are not available to all donors.
🔸 Please reach out to the fundraising team with any questions. Thank you for supporting NSA!
PHOTO CONTEST | Spirit Day & More!
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Got some great shots? The yearbook is looking for your best photos of scholars showing off their school spirit! Everyone who meets the three criteria below will have their name entered into the randomizer for a chance to win a Starbucks e-gift card!
How to Enter
- Group Vibes: Feature at least 3 scholars having fun together; think of spirit day outfits, sports events, or just hanging out together.
- Visible Faces: Make sure at least 3 kids are facing the camera. Candids and goofy expressions are very welcome; posing is not required!
- Tag the crew: Email the photo with the names and grades of everyone pictured for tracking and indexing.
PS. Please note that while not every photo is guaranteed a spot in the yearbook, all eligible entries are in the running for the gift card!
Newsletter Submissions
If you'd like to add something to our newsletter, fill out this short form by Thursday 10:00am for inclusion in Friday's newsletter.
Have a question, comment, or suggestion? Email us at communications@nsaparents.com.