The Agora Pulse
September 2022
Agora Vitals with Dr. Butler
Last year, our school adopted a floating holiday called Charter Day to acknowledge and celebrate charter schools in general and our school specifically. This year, Charter Day will be held on Friday, October 20.
To learn more about the celebration, click HERE.
Academic Calendar 2023-2024
Agora's school calendar is a vital organizational tool that outlines the academic year's schedule, including important dates, holidays, breaks, and events. Be sure to download a copy to assist you with planning for your student. Below are upcoming important dates.
- October 2: Board Meeting @ 4:00 PM, Board Docs
- October 11: (AM) Half Day for Students | (PM) Asynch for Students | Staff In-Service
- October 11: ParentSquare Tech Session @ 3:00 PM
- October 19: Charter Day Virtual Family Campfire Event @ Noon
- October 20: Charter Day | School/ Office Closed
- October 25: (AM) Half Day for Students | (PM) Asynch for Students | Staff In-Service
- October 25 and 26: Annual Title I Parent Meetings (dates and times are listed below)
To download a copy, click HERE.
Celebrate Charter Day Around The Campfire
On Friday, October 20th, Agora will be closed in recognition of Agora's Charter Day. As the leaves change colors and the air gets crisper, we have an exciting, virtual family event planned just for you! Join us and gather around the virtual campfire to share your stories, memories, and experiences that make Agora special to you and your family. We can't wait to see you at the virtual campfire!
How to Participate:
- Prepare a short story or memory to share (1 minute or less).
- Wear BLUE or dress in your Agora spirit wear.
- Have your favorite Fall snack or drink on hand.
- Click on the meeting link at the scheduled time to join the virtual campfire.
Virtual Family Campfire Event to Celebrate Charter Day
Date: Thursday, October 19, 2023
Time: 12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
Click here to join the meeting
Please log in with the Learning Coach first and last name.
ParentSquare Tech Session - Getting Started for Parents
We are excited to announce that Agora adopted a new form of school-to-home communication called ParentSquare. This unified communications platform is designed to keep parents and guardians informed and encourage greater engagement and connection with Agora. It provides a safe way for district administrators, school principals, teachers, staff, and parents to:
- Send and receive school and class information
- Share pictures and files
- See calendar items
- and much more . . . all in one centralized place!
All district and school, grade level and classroom information will now be sent to your computer or phone via email and/or text. Join us to understand what ParentSquare is and how Agora will communicate using this fantastic program. We will walk through the features and help answer any questions you may have.
Date: Wednesday, October 11, 2023
Time: 3:00PM
Join on your computer, mobile app or personal device
Click here to join the meeting
Please log in with the Learning Coach first and last name.
Monitoring Student Progress
By the end of October, the first quarter will nearly be over. The beginning of the school year is a critical time in ensuring that your student is on track with their classes and progress. Now is a great time to check.
The following videos give a quick overview of how to do this:
If you ever have questions regarding grades or progress for your student, don’t hesitate to contact their teachers for assistance.
Agora's New Mascot!
Dragon
Knight
Lion
Phoenix
Wolf
It's time for you to select your favorite. Which one do you feel best represents Agora's Mission, Vision and Core Values. To cast your vote, click HERE.
Attendance Matters - Parent Attendance Pledge
At Agora, we are committed to helping our students reach their highest potential. Consistent attendance fosters a positive learning environment and equips children with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in school and in life. We understand that every parent wants the best for their child's education. Consider embracing the Agora Parent Attendance Pledge below to support your child's academic journey.
As a committed Agora parent, I pledge to:
- Prioritize Daily Attendance: I will prioritize my child's daily attendance at school as a fundamental step toward their success.
- Monitor Attendance: I will diligently keep track of my child's attendance and absences, staying informed about their school engagement.
- Establish a Morning Routine: I will assist my child in setting an alarm at least half an hour before school begins each day to ensure a punctual start.
- Promote Good Health: I will encourage my child to attend school regularly, except when genuinely ill, and emphasize the importance of good health for effective learning.
- Ensure Internet Accessibility: In case of Internet connectivity issues, I will arrange for my child to access the internet through a relative, friend, or neighbor who can provide assistance.
- Address Technical Problems: If my child encounters technical difficulties with their computer, I will promptly contact tech support to resolve any issues.
- Submit Excuses When Necessary: If my child is absent, I will send an excuse to the attendance office through the Sapphire Parent Portal within 3 days.
- Engage in Communication: I will proactively read and respond to emails, texts, and calls from school staff each day to stay informed and connected.
- Display the School Calendar: I will display the school calendar in an area visible to both my child and me for easy reference.
- Schedule Appointments Thoughtfully: I will schedule medical and dental appointments on weekdays after school hours whenever possible. If a daytime appointment is necessary, I will ensure my child attends school for the majority of the day.
- Seek Help When Needed: When facing challenges that impact my child's attendance, I will confide in an adult at the school and actively seek assistance to overcome obstacles.
By taking this pledge, you are demonstrating your commitment to being an active partner in your child’s education. You are making your child's school attendance a top priority, providing them with a strong foundation to cultivate valuable habits for their educational journey.
Literacy Updates
Did you know October is National Cookbook Month? Spending time preparing meals with your children is a great way to bond while building literacy skills!
- Virtual Book Store: Agora’s Virtual Book Store is always open! Agora always receives at least 15% of sales, which funds regional literacy events around the state. Grow your home library while supporting literacy across Agora!
- Mobile Library: Agora’s mobile library is on the go again this year! Reach out to your family coach for more details on where and when you can borrow books.
College and Career Updates
Agora can assist with career exploration, post-secondary options, and college planning. To view events happening across the state, view or download the PDF below.
If any questions, contact Kristin Thatcher, College and Career Readiness Coordinator, at kthatcher@agora.org.
Family Mental Health
World Mental Health Day is about raising awareness of mental health and driving positive change for mental health. Click HERE to read this month's Mental Health Newsletter which contains tips to support communities and families to live mentally healthier lives. Also, be sure to visit Agora's Virtual Calming Room for relaxation techniques to manage emotions during stressful times.
