November Newsletter

Happy Fall Silver Firs Families!

The school year is in full swing and we are so proud of how our Jaguars are settling in, learning, and growing each day at Silver Firs Elementary School! As we head into November, we want to share a few thank-you’s, some important reminders, and upcoming dates to keep on your radar.

A Big Thank You!!!

Thank you to all the parents and guardians who attended recent conferences! Your involvement makes such a difference in your students' education. Meeting with teachers, asking questions, and partnering with us shows your child that home and school are truly a team. Your presence strengthens our learning community and helps your student know that their work matters.
If you weren’t able to join us this time, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your student’s teacher. We’re always happy to connect and support your child’s success together.

Reminder… Attendance Matters

We want to remind everyone of the importance of attendance at Silver Firs and across the Everett Public Schools district. Frequent absences and/ or tardies to class can make it harder for students to keep up with classroom activities, discussions, and group learning.

Here’s a parent-friendly breakdown of what you should know:

• When to report an absence: If your child is going to be absent, please email SFEAttendance@everettsd.org, by calling the attendance line at 425-385-6505, or by using the ParentVue app. Be sure to include the student’s name, date(s) of absence, and reason.
  
  

• Tardies and early departures: Arriving late or leaving early still affects learning time. Please work on your home routines to support your students arriving at school on time. Teachers at SFE pick up their students outside around 9:10. If your student arrives after 9:15 they are tardy.
  
  

• Excused vs. unexcused: Absences are considered excused when a parent/guardian documents one of the district-approved reasons (illness, family emergency, religious observance, medical emergency, etc.). If the absence doesn’t meet those criteria or no note is provided, it may be counted as unexcused.

• Travel - Washington state allows families 5 days of excused attendance for travel. Any days over 5 and your travel will be marked unexcused.
  
  

• Why it matters: Good attendance supports continuity of learning. High absenteeism can lead to gaps in knowledge, slower progress and social concerns.
  
  

• Your help counts: Please schedule appointments outside of school hours whenever possible, travel during planned holidays and breaks, ensure your child is on time each day, and let us know early when an absence must happen. Support at home makes a big difference!

• If you are concerned about your child’s attendance please connect with the school and we can support you!
  
  

Mark Your Calendars – November Dates

• November 6 - Veterans Day Assembly 9:45 - 10:30

• November 7 – Early Release at 1:00 PM! Please make arrangements to pick up your student(s) on this day.

• November 11 – No School in observance of Veterans Day.
• November 26-28 – Fall Break- No School! Enjoy the time with your family, and we look forward to welcoming the students back rested and ready after the break on Monday December 1st!

Thank you again for your continued support and partnership. Your engagement in your child’s education—whether through conferences, attendance, or daily encouragement—makes a meaningful difference. Let’s keep charging ahead together into a fantastic November!

Cheers,

Michelle Strickler (AP)