Lincoln Log

Dear Abraham Lincoln Families,

As we wrap up the last few days of January, we’re looking ahead to an exciting February! Next month brings Groundhog Day, the 100th Day of School, Valentine’s Day celebrations, and February Break. It’s a busy time, so please be sure to check in with your child’s teacher to stay updated on classroom events and your child’s progress.

~ Mrs. Ireland

At Abraham Lincoln, we take attendance seriously because consistent school attendance is directly linked to student success. We track attendance weekly and will begin sharing our monthly progress with students and staff through a visual display in the school. I will also include these updates in each newsletter so families can stay informed.

Here is our Average Daily Attendance (ADA) so far this year:

• September: 95%

• October: 92%

• November: 95%

• December: 95%

• January: 94%

Our goal is to maintain 95% or higher each month, and we are excited to work together to reach it!

You can help support strong attendance by scheduling appointments outside the school day whenever possible and planning family vacations during scheduled school vacation weeks. Every day of learning matters, and we appreciate your partnership in helping our students be present, engaged, and ready to learn.

We are looking for a volunteer to come in once a week for about an hour to help shelve books in our Book Room. If you are interested, please contact Meghan Schall at mschall@bangorschools.net.

The Abraham Lincoln PTO is looking ahead to a fun and engaging spring filled with family-centered events that celebrate our students, staff, and school community. While this time of year can feel busy with weather and seasonal illnesses, spring is when family involvement truly brings these events to life, and even small contributions make a big difference. Upcoming opportunities include Cabin Fever Family Night, the Spring Book Fair, Staff Appreciation Week, the Spring Fair, Garden Clean-Up Day, field trips and enrichment activities, and a spring fundraiser. Volunteers are needed to help with planning, event support, donations, and creative ideas across all events. Families interested in getting involved are encouraged to sign up for a committee using the provided link, and the PTO will follow up with next steps. Questions are always welcome, and families can also stay connected through the PTO Facebook group and email listserv.

*February 3 - PreK and K Registration Night 4:00-6:00

*February 11 - Early Release 12:00 Dismissal; PTO Meeting 5:15; School Committee Budget Workshop 7:00

*February 12 - 100th Day of School

*February 16-20 - No School - February Break

*February 23 - Back to School

*February 25 - School Committee Meeting 7:00

PreK Shadow Match:

Cut out simple shapes (circle, star, square) and draw matching outlines on paper. Can your child match the shape to its shadow?

Sound Sorting:
Collect small items that make noise (keys, paper, spoon on cup). Have your child close their eyes and guess what made each sound.

Silly Opposites:
Say an action and have your child do the opposite (you say "sit," they stand; you say "quiet," they whisper). Great for listening and thinking!

Riddle:
I move up and down but I’m not alive. What am I?
(Answer: a seesaw)

Kindergarten–Grade 1 Mystery Bag:
Put several items in a bag. Without peeking, your child feels one and describes it so you can guess what it is.

Build a Bridge:
Using only paper, cups, or blocks, can your child build a “bridge” strong enough for a small toy? Problem-solving + creativity!

Finish the Drawing:
Draw a squiggle and have your child turn it into a picture. What could it become?

Riddle:
What gets bigger the more you take away?
(Answer: a hole)

Grades 2–3 Number Puzzle:

Pick a number (e.g., 12). Ask your child how many different ways they can make it using addition, subtraction, or even simple multiplication.

Secret Code:
Write a short message using a simple letter code (A=1, B=2). Your child decodes it—and can write a message back using their own code.

Two-Truths-and-a-Fib (Math Edition):
Give three math statements, and your child finds the one that isn’t true.
Example:

• 6 + 4 = 10

• 12 – 2 = 11

• 5 + 5 = 10
  (Fib: 12 – 2 = 11)

Riddle:
You can catch me, but you can’t throw me. What am I?
(Answer: a cold)

The Bangor School Department is partnering with Smart Social, an excellent resource that helps families navigate the digital world safely and confidently. Smart Social offers free tools, videos, and tips to help parents guide children in making positive choices online and using social media responsibly.

We encourage all families to explore these resources and start conversations at home about digital safety and balance. Check it out here: Smart Social

We’re excited to share Beyond the Bell, a new podcast that takes listeners inside the heart of our schools! Each episode dives into the inspiring stories, innovative practices, and everyday moments that make our school community so special. You’ll hear from teachers, staff, community members, and experts who bring unique perspectives on education today — from school psychologists and coaches to educational leaders.

Tune in and explore what’s happening beyond the bell!
🎧 Listen here: Beyond the Bell Podcast

Each year, the UMA Bangor Dental Hygiene Clinic hosts a special event just for kids called Give Kids a Smile Day. This year, the event will take place on February 20, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Students in the Dental Hygiene Program provide care to patients of all ages as part of their curriculum, under the supervision of faculty who are registered and certified dental hygienists. On Give Kids a Smile Day, volunteer dentists also join the clinic to support students and faculty in providing care.

This is a free dental care day for children and teens ages 5–19 and is a wonderful opportunity for families, especially those who do not currently have a dental home.

Please see the attached flyer for additional information. If you have questions, you may contact the clinic at 207-262-7872 or by email at umadental@maine.edu.

Thank you for helping us share this valuable resource with families in our school community.

At the heart of Abe is the belief that strong learning begins with curiosity and a willingness to explore. Whether students are tackling a puzzle, asking thoughtful questions, or working through a challenge, the focus isn’t on getting it right the first time—it’s on thinking deeply and trying again.

When children stretch their minds and experiment with new ideas, they build confidence, resilience, and a love of learning. We encourage families to notice and celebrate those moments of effort at home—when your child sticks with something, tries a new approach, or wonders, “What else can I try?”

Early Release dismissal is at 12:00 PM.