PCK Weekly Newsletter

Dear PCK Families,

This week, we would like to share our perspective on artificial intelligence and outline PCK’s commitment to helping students develop intellectual independence while limiting reliance on AI-assisted tasks.

At PCK, our Core Knowledge curriculum is designed to build essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. These abilities grow from a strong foundation of knowledge and cultural literacy, and they are best developed through active, hands-on learning. Over-reliance on AI can interfere with this process and hinder a student’s growth.

In order to think critically, students must first internalize knowledge. When AI is used to summarize content or solve problems, it can bypass the “encoding” process that helps store information in long-term memory. At this stage in their development, students are building what we often call “mental Velcro,” a base of knowledge that allows new learning to take hold. This requires consistent practice in both storing information and recalling it.

Although the long-term effects of AI use are still emerging, research suggests that frequently offloading cognitive tasks can make it more difficult to perform those tasks independently over time. Skills such as writing, mathematical reasoning, and reading comprehension skills may weaken without regular practice, potentially requiring students to relearn them later.

During these formative years, our goal is to help students build the cognitive strength needed to apply and synthesize their learning. By the time they reach high school and beyond, we believe they will have a solid foundation that allows parents and students together to make the choice whether to use AI as a tool to enhance learning in their later years.

If you are interested in reading more, please see our philosophy on AI.

Thank you for your continued support in prioritizing deep learning in elementary and intermediate education.

Warmly,

Dr. Leanne Weyman

Breanna Warburton

Stephanie Harper

Hello PCK Families,

I hope everyone enjoyed a restful spring break and is enjoying the beautiful weather we’ve been having. As we head into the spring season, I wanted to share some thoughts regarding mental health.

Many people believe that the winter holidays are the peak time for mental health incidents. However, studies often show that the spring season is actually more consistent with an increase in these challenges. Mental health and self-care aren't topics that should wait until our children are older; they are conversations we should begin early on.

We were all children and teenagers once, and we remember the emotional changes that come with those years. Now, as parents and guardians, you see those changes firsthand. You know your child’s behavior, their daily routines, and how they react to frustration. While every child has "up" and "down" days, it is the behavior that shifts beyond their usual pattern that deserves your attention.

If your child or teen is struggling, please don't be afraid to start the conversation. You

can support them by:

• Asking open-ended questions to encourage them to share.
• Listening intently without immediate judgment.
• Following up to show they have your full attention.
• Resisting "quick fixes." It is natural to want to fix a problem immediately, but emotional growth takes time.
• Instead of: "Don't worry, you’ll feel better tomorrow," Try: "I can see this is really weighing on you. I’m here to listen if you want to tell me more."
• Instead of: "When I was your age, I just dealt with it," Try: "That sounds incredibly stressful. I might not have the perfect answer, but we’ll figure this out together."

In closing, even if your child isn’t ready to talk directly about their mental health, simply letting them know you are there to support them through challenging times makes a world of difference.

Stay safe,

Deputy Castillo

CMAS testing begins in just under two weeks! These assessments play an important role in helping us evaluate how effectively we are supporting our students. The results provide valuable insight into student learning, allowing us to make informed, data-driven decisions and continuously strengthen our curriculum and overall learning experience.

We are still collecting snacks for CMAS testing. These will be distributed to classrooms during scheduled breaks to help students stay focused and energized throughout the testing period. Making sure students have access to snacks helps them perform at their best.

If you click the button below, you can view our Amazon Wishlist for a list of remaining snack items needed to support all students during testing.

You can find the testing windows for students in grades 3-8 below. Please note that students in grades K-2 do not participate in CMAS testing.

We appreciate your partnership in encouraging your child to do their best during testing. Please remind them to put forth their best effort, stay positive, and not feel stressed about the results. Whenever possible, we ask that medical appointments be scheduled outside of testing times.

Yesterday, our 1st grade students enjoyed a surprise field trip to the PACE Center, where they attended a performance of Ada Twist, Scientist. This special outing transformed an ordinary school day into a memorable experience, giving students the opportunity to engage with the fine arts in an exciting and meaningful way.

A big thank you to all of our chaperones and staff members who helped coordinate and make this wonderful experience possible!

Our kindergarten and 2nd grade science classes are beginning their life cycle studies! We’re excited to share that we currently have a dozen eggs, generously donated by the Gandolph family, incubating in our science lab.

As part of this unit, students will observe and describe patterns in what plants and animals need to survive. They will also make observations to compare the diversity of life across different habitats.

Throughout the process, students will record their learning by writing and drawing observations as the chicks hatch and grow.

Next month, we invite our community to join us for another Coffee with the Director. This session will focus on PCK’s Strategic Plan and the progress being made to bring it to life. Participants are encouraged to ask questions, share feedback, and learn more about the plan.

To make the event accessible to as many community members as possible, it will be held virtually. Coffee with the Director will take place on Thursday, April 16, from 9:00-10:00 a.m. Please click the button below to RSVP.

As a reminder, students should not bring toys into the classroom unless otherwise approved by the teachers. Starting next week, we will no longer allow any squishy or filled fidget items, including those similar to the popular NeeDoh toys, in our building. We have made this decision because these products tend to break easily, and the material inside has caused damage in several areas of the school.

Thank you for your partnership in helping us maintain a safe and well-kept school environment!

If you are considering a change of schools for the 2026-27 school year, we advise you complete our Intent to Return Form. This form helps us prepare for record transfers to your child’s new school, as well as other administrative steps required during the transition.

Please note that submitting this form does not constitute an official withdrawal from PCK. If your plans change and you decide to remain at PCK, completing the form will not affect your child’s enrollment status. Its purpose is simply to support a timely and smooth transition, should one be needed.

Families with students currently in 8th grade who will be transitioning to high school do not need to complete this form.

We're searching for teachers and staff to help support our mission starting in the 2026-27 school year!

If you or someone you know is interested in working with PCK students and helping support the standard of excellence our school strives to achieve, we would love to hear from you.

You can view all current openings by clicking the button below.

Registration closes soon for our K-5 Boys Volleyball Camp!

This camp gives students the opportunity to learn volleyball fundamentals alongside our talented players and coaches. Campers will be paired with team players who will guide them through the basic skills and fundamentals of the game in a fun, supportive environment.

As part of the experience, each camper will receive a t-shirt that can be worn on PCK Spirit Days.

Camp Date and Time

• Tuesday, March 31: 3:15-4:35 p.m.

You can click the button below to register your student. Registration is open until Sunday, March 29.

Currently, the only club open for registration is our Homework Club. You can find details and registration information below. Be sure to check back next year for additional clubs available in our 2026 fall session!

Meeting Dates: Monday-Thursdays, 3:20-4:15 p.m.

Meeting Location: Room 115

Grades: 3-6

At this club students will have the opportunity to work on their homework while a teacher is there to guide them through their work. Registration for Homework Club can be completed below, and will be open throughout the remainder of the school year.

Help Shape the Future of PCK

The PCK Board of Directors serves as the guiding force behind our policies and principles. Composed of dedicated parents, the Board of Directors helps guide the school’s long-term success. Board members set strategic priorities, approve new policies, monitor progress toward goals, and ensure the school remains financially strong and aligned with its mission.

Currently, seven community members sit on the board, each elected by the PCK community to serve three-year terms. To maintain our vibrant community and uphold our values, we encourage all interested parents to consider submitting a letter of interest.

If you're ready to make a difference and contribute to PCK, please submit a letter of interest via email to pckoperatingcouncil@ckcs.net by Tuesday, April 7.

This letter of interest should contain the following:

• A brief biography
• Why you are interested in joining the Board
• A school-wide goal or strategic priority would you like to help champion
• A professional headshot

For more information, including board bylaws, please visit the Board of Directors page on the PCK website through the button below.

PCK Auction & Palooza is Coming

The PCK Palooza & Auction is right around the corner! Don’t miss out on the savings and make sure to grab your early bird tickets today. Early bird pricing is available now through March 30 for all PCK families, from preschool through 8th grade.

Additionally, we are partnering with 20 Mile Athletic Center for childcare during the Palooza & Auction. Families may leave their students at the athletic center from the hours of 5:30-9:30 p.m. on the date of the event where students will have open gym time, crafts, obstacle courses, and more.

Join us for a memorable evening celebrating our school community, filled with games, delicious food, and music. To purchase your early bird tickets or register your student for childcare, simply click the buttons below.

Our next meeting will take place on Wednesday, April 8 at 8:15 a.m. This meeting will have a virtual option, which can be found in the newsletter the week before this meeting.

We warmly invite the PCK community to join us for an opportunity to engage with our team and learn more about the vital role we play within Parker Core Knowledge.

The SAC serves an essential function by providing accountability in an advisory capacity. Our purpose is to inform, encourage, and create opportunities for parents or guardians to engage meaningfully with the school's performance, budget and improvement plans.

For this week’s Volunteer Spotlight, we’re excited to recognize everyone who helped make our Pi Day celebration so memorable! This event was a fun and engaging way to explore the mathematical concept of pi as an irrational number which was paired with a sweet treat that helped students connect learning to a meaningful experience.

Every grade level was filled with pies and supported by dedicated volunteers who generously gave their time to serve students throughout the day. This showing of community involvement sends a powerful message to our students that they are supported and valued in their educational journey.

We are truly grateful for everyone who contributed. Your support makes a lasting impact and helps strengthen our school community.