Parsons Pirates Update

Dear Parsons Families,

I think we are all ready for this snow to be over! I hope all of you stayed warm and safe on Friday. It was my daughter's 17th birthday so it was a nice surprise to spend extra time with her.

March is flying by! We are enjoying our guest readers and "getting booked" during Reading Month. Similar to getting "booed" at Halloween, classes have been "getting booked" with new books this month. Happy Reading!

Sincerely,

Sarah Aherne

Way to go GSD! The Governor came to GSD on Wednesday because of multiple recommendations from government officials that our district was a shining star in improving student learning and outcomes using innovative and engaging practices, especially during the pandemic! As one of the newest members of GSD with extensive experience in other districts, I can honestly say that GSD's dedication to their students, staff, and community is top notch!

Check out the article!

https://www.thenewsherald.com/2023/03/09/governor-and-gibraltar-educators-discuss-how-to-get-kids-back-on-track-after-pandemic/

Staff Challenge-Is there a staff member at Parsons who's kindness you really appreciate? Let them know at this form. Let's spread that positivity! https://forms.gle/sLVFkZSUXYXxghQWA

Kindergarten enrollment for the next school year opened Tuesday, February 21. There is a pre-enrollment link on the website. This pre-enrollment must be complete before calling the school to schedule an appointment. If you are School of Choice Intra District, you must enroll at your building of residence not your preferred school. If you are School of Choice Out of District, you must enroll at the Board Office with Karyn. Kindergarten Round Up will be Tuesday, April 11. Kindergarten screening will take place August 22 and August 23. You will sign up for a time during enrollment at the building. We can't wait to meet our newest pirates!

The Guidance Center is holding a FREE live screening documentary and LIVE Q&A at Crystal Gardens on March 21st, talking about the pros and cons of social media/technology. The movie is appropriate for any age, but recommended for 5th graders and up. Pizza, beverages, and popcorn are included. I have attached the flyer and trailer below if you are interested. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9qVi63wG2OM

It has been brought to our attention that there is a 5th grade group chat that is very large and active after school. While we cannot control social media after school, recently some drama that is occurring in this chat is carrying over into the school day. Recently, some of the 5th grade teachers have had to have discussions with students and solve issues at school. Please have conversations with your student about their social media and technology use. We encourage you to ask questions about this group chat and be aware of your child's social media.

March is Reading Month! We have a reading calendar created by Ms. Fairris and Mrs. Krause. We have special guest readers! Check with your teacher to see if they are having family guest readers as well.

March 17- Carlson High School Students

March 24-Representative Churches is reading to 3rd-5th grades at 11:15

Run Club is under new direction with Mrs Scheetz and Mr Ziemba taking the reins. They presented their new ideas at the last PTO meeting. Due to layout of Parsons and concern for students safely running indoors, they would like to start in April so Parsons students can utilize the track. This year Run Club will be before school for students in 2nd -5th grade. With the late start, Parsons will not participate in the Martian Marathon. However, Mrs. Scheetz and Mr. Ziema are planning on holding our own Marauderthon in June complete with t-shirts and medals. Stay tuned for more information!

Way to go Pirates! Thanks to a last minute donation from Briley in Mrs. Krause's class we reached our goal! We raised $8,167. The top student in donations was Riley Villalpando!

Stay tuned for a date for students who raised over $100 to pie Mr. Grima or Mrs. Aherne in the face!

There are still some slots for Watch D.O.G.S. Here is the link to sign up. Thank you to the great Dads, Grandpas, and Uncles who help us learn!

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409054caca922abfa7-watchdogs#/

We are seeing so many sicknesses in the schools! Please check out this letter to see when GSD recommends you keep your child home.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1X1h-iSol2YD68QRJndqs3bNInfpnLoISC0h1E_B7-Ck/edit?usp=sharing

March 14: PTO meeting 6:00

March 17: Guest Readers from Carlson

March 22: Half Day Dismissal 11:55

March 24: PJ Day Fundraiser for 5th Grade Party $1

March 27-31: Spring Break

April 6: End of 3rd quarter, Half Day Dismissal 11:55

April 7: No School, Skate Night

April 10: MSTEP opens

April 11: Kindergarten Round Up

April 17: Bowling Night

April 27: Muffins with Mom

May 22-24: 5th Grade Camp

May 29: Memorial Day No School

May 31: Donuts with Dad

June 2: Carlson High School Graduation

June 9: Field Day

June 12: 5th Grade Party, 5th Grade Graduation

June 13: Last Day of School, Half Day Dismissal 11:55, 5th Grade Clap Out

Email: ahernes@gibdist.net
Website: https://www.gibdist.net/parsons-elementary
Location: Parsons Elementary School, Middle Gibraltar Road, Gibraltar, MI, USA
Phone: (734) 379-7050