Elementary News

We had a wonderful and eventful week filled with guest readers for Read Across America, Green Eggs and Ham activities for our Kindergarteners, and IREAD Testing. Thank you to all the families who supported their students by reading together, dressing up, and ensuring our 2nd and 3rd grade testers were well-rested and ready to start their day positively during testing. With this warm weather upon us, we hope you have a chance to enjoy some time outdoors this weekend!

Another sign of spring is the upcoming Daylight Saving Time change. Remember to set your clocks forward one hour on Saturday night as Sunday, March 8th at 2:00 am is the official time to "spring forward."

March 2 - 6 - Read Across America Week (see dress up days below)

March 3 & 4th IREAD Testing (Grades 2/3) - IMPORTANT

March 8 - Spring Forward (move clocks ahead one hour)

March 9 - 4th grade INDY Mobile Experience

March 10 - Mac El PTO Meeting 3:30 pm

March 17 - St. Patrick's Day

March 20 - 27 - SPRING BREAK!

April 7 - Mac El Spring Pictures

April 8 - Pipe Creek Spring Pictures

April 9 - Maconaquah Roundup @ Pipe Creek (see below) 4:30 - 6:00 pm

This weekend we “spring forward” one hour for Daylight Saving Time. While the extra evening daylight is nice, the time change can temporarily affect children’s sleep schedules. Many students may feel a little more tired than usual for a few days, which can impact focus, mood, and morning routines at school. The good news is that most children adjust within a few days to a week, and a few small changes at home can make the transition much easier.

Tips to help kids prepare for the time change:

• Move bedtime earlier. Try shifting bedtime 10–15 minutes earlier for a few nights to help your child adjust.

• Stick to a consistent routine. A predictable bedtime routine (bath, reading, quiet time) helps signal that it’s time to sleep.

• Limit screens before bed. Turn off TVs, tablets, and phones 30–60 minutes before bedtime.

• Get morning sunlight. Natural light helps reset the body’s internal clock. Opening blinds or stepping outside in the morning can help.

• Be patient during the adjustment. Children may be a little extra tired or emotional for a few days as their bodies adapt.

A little extra sleep and routine can go a long way in helping students feel their best at school next week! Thank you for partnering with us to help our students stay rested, ready to learn, and successful each day. 🌟

Student IREAD results should be available next week teachers. Once teachers have received the results, they will contact families by phone. Students will NOT be told results in class. Please allow your student's teacher time to reach out to you as they will be making many phone calls. See the slide show below for information and state guidance regarding IREAD and next steps.

If there is a change in your child's transportation, whether they will be picked up or riding a bus, it MUST be communicated with the front office. This can be done by sending a note to school or calling the office. If you call the office, please make sure you speak with a person. There is a central list at each elementary school, which allows us to check when students are unsure and the teacher may not be available. Do not just send a message to the teacher. The office MUST be notified. Thank you!

NOTE: Transportation changes should be in to the office by 2:00 pm.

We love having you visit our schools! To ensure the safety of all our students, anyone who wishes to volunteer or have lunch with their student must first complete a volunteer background check. You can find the link under the Parent Resources tab on our website.

A friendly reminder: for the safety of our students, please remember to bring your photo ID whenever you visit the school for any reason, including student pickup, lunch, or meetings.