February 21, 2025 Parent Newsletter

Translation | Traducción

Friendly reminder - Translation is available for our newsletters in over 100+ languages. Just click on the translate option to opt for this feature.

Recordatorio amistoso - Hay traducción disponible para nuestros boletines en más de 100 idiomas. Simplemente haga clic en la opción de traducción para optar por esta función.

Lời nhắc nhở thân thiện - Bản dịch có sẵn cho các bản tin của chúng tôi bằng hơn 100 ngôn ngữ. Chỉ cần nhấp vào tùy chọn dịch ở trên cùng để chọn tính năng này.

Learning to read takes practice. Loving to read takes enthusiasm. Read with your child often and create a sense of enjoyment, wonder, and a passion for reading.

1. Demonstrate a positive attitude about education to your children. What we say and do in our daily lives can help them to develop positive attitudes toward school and learning and to build confidence in themselves as learners. Showing our children that we both value education and use it in our daily lives provides them with powerful models and contributes greatly to their success in school.

   In addition, by showing interest in their children's education, parents and families can spark enthusiasm in them and lead them to a very important understanding-that learning can be enjoyable as well as rewarding and is well worth the effort required.

2. Encourage your child to be responsible and work independently. Taking responsibility and working independently are important qualities for school success. You can help your child to develop these qualities by establish reasonable rules that you enforce consistently, making it clear to your child that he has to take responsibility for what he does, both at home and at school, showing your child how to break a job down into small steps, and monitor what your child does after school, in the evenings and on weekends. If you can't be there when your child gets home, give her the responsibility of checking in with you by phone to discuss her plans. Learn more in Encourage Responsibility, Independence, and Active Learning.

3. Encourage your child to read. Helping your child become a reader is the single most important thing that you can do to help the child to succeed in school-and in life. The importance of reading simply can't be overstated. Reading helps children in all school subjects. More important, it is the key to lifelong learning. Learn more in Fun Reading Tips and Activities and Fun and Effective Ways to Read with Children.

4. Encourage active learning. Children need active learning as well as quiet learning such as reading and doing homework. Active learning involves asking and answering questions, solving problems and exploring interests. Active learning also can take place when your child plays sports, spends time with friends, acts in a school play, plays a musical instrument or visits museums and bookstores. To promote active learning, listen to your child's ideas and respond to them. Let him jump in with questions and opinions when you read books together. When you encourage this type of give-and-take at home, your child's participation and interest in school is likely to increase.

5. Monitor your child's television, video game, and Internet use. American children on average spend far more time watching TV, playing video games and using the Internet than they do completing homework or other school-related activities. How to Monitor TV Viewing and Video Game Playing and Help Your Child Learn to Use the Internet Properly and Effectively offer some ideas for helping your child use the media effectively.

Dear Parents,

We want to emphasize the importance of open communication between home and our campus, Spring Creek, especially when it comes to your child’s progress and well-being. We encourage you to reach out to your child’s teachers first with any concerns you may have. Building strong relationships with our teachers is essential, as they can provide valuable insights and support tailored to your child’s needs.

If you have been working closely with the teacher and implementing strategies to address your concerns but find that the situation persists, please do not hesitate to contact our admin intern, Angela Sanchez, or our Counselors (Delma Johnson & Kimberly Hendricks). They are the second level of support and can provide assistance in all areas. They can also facilitate communication with our Assistant Principal, who is also available to address any ongoing issues. Our Assistant Principal, Austin Escobedo, can work with you to explore additional resources, provide guidance on effective strategies, and ensure that your child receives the support they need to thrive.

In the rare case that concerns continue to escalate beyond this point, the final level of support will involve the Principal, Angie Ariza. We genuinely value your partnership in this process, as it plays a crucial role in ensuring the best possible experience and outcomes for your child. Together, we can create a nurturing and effective learning environment for all our students.

We welcome any questions, concerns, or comments you may have, as we believe in working together to find solutions. Open communication is essential, and we encourage you to address any issues directly with us—both parents and staff/campus. This approach allows us to resolve your concerns promptly, before you escalate them to the District which will ultimately refer your feedback back to us. We appreciate the opportunity to assist you!

This is the link to the Parent Handbook where you can find all about our school.

February is Black History Month! Throughout this month, we are celebrating the contributions and achievements of African-Americans in U.S. history during our daily announcements. We are excited to share the highlights for the week of February 10th.

Thank you for your support as we honor and recognize this important history!

Monday, February 24
Good morning! It’s Black History Month, and our theme is African Americans and Labor. Today, we’re learning about the Pullman Porters. These African American men worked on trains, helping passengers travel comfortably. Their hard work also played an important role in the civil rights movement.

Tuesday, February 25
Good morning! During Black History Month, we honor African Americans who made history with their work. Katherine Johnson was a mathematician who worked for NASA and helped astronauts land on the moon. Her achievements remind us that math and science can lead to incredible things.

Wednesday, February 26
Good morning! This Black History Month, we’re exploring how African Americans have shaped our world. Did you know that African American workers helped build the State Fair of Texas? Their hard work created a place that many families enjoy every year.

Thursday, February 27
Good morning! Black History Month is a time to honor African Americans who worked hard for justice. Claudette Colvin was a teenager who refused to give up her seat on a bus to stand up for fairness. Her bravery inspired others to fight for civil rights.

Friday, February 28
Good morning! As we finish Black History Month, let’s honor the Tuskegee Airmen. These African American pilots worked hard during World War II to show their courage and skill. They proved that hard work and determination can change the world.

Math fact fluency: It is important to understand that fact fluency is not just about memorizing basic math facts. In class, we will emphasize developing students’ conceptual understanding of these facts rather than focusing solely on rote memorization. We will encourage students to look for patterns and relationships between facts, building on and connecting to what they already know (for instance, if students know 5x5=25, 5x6 is one more group of 5, or 30). This conceptual framework helps anchor students’ recall, making it easier for them to remember the facts through meaningful connections.

What can you do to help at home? We are listing some amazing resources by grade level!

Kinder - Math Fact Fluency Practice

Grade 1- Math Fact Fluency Practice

Grade 2 - Math Fact Fluency Practice

Grade 3 - Math Fact Fluency Practice

Grade 4 - Math Fact Fluency Practice

Grade 5 - Math Fact Fluency Practice

Please help our kids work on math fluency. We have included the goal for each grade level and links to games they can play at home to practice the skills. You can find the links at the beginning of this newsletter.

These are some family tips you can use to support your student at home for the topics they are currently working on:

Grade 5 Module 5:

Topic A Family Tip Sheet

Topic B Family Tip Sheet

Topic C Family Tip Sheet

Topic D Family Tip Sheet

Grade 4 Module 6:

Topic A Family Tip Sheet

Topic B Family Tip Sheet

Topic C Family Tip Sheet

Topic D Family Tip Sheet

Topic E Family Tip Sheet

Grade 3 - Module 5:

Topic A Family Tip Sheet

Topic B Family Tip Sheet

Topic C Family Tip Sheet

Topic D Family Tip Sheet

Topic E Family Tip Sheet

Topic F Family Tip Sheet

Manners Matter Monday is a fun initiative at Spring Creek that encourages kindness, respect, and good manners among all students. Every Monday, we come together as a school to highlight how important it is to interact positively and treat each other with courtesy.

On Manners Matter Monday, students get the chance to practice specific good manners throughout the day. This could mean saying “please” and “thank you,” greeting classmates and teachers, or really listening when someone is talking. Each week has a different theme, so students can explore different ways to show respect and kindness in their everyday interactions.

The main goal of Manners Matter Monday is to create a friendly and respectful environment at Spring Creek. Please help us reinforce these lessons at home, creating a culture of respect and consideration for everyone. Let's work together to teach our kids the importance of good manners!

Garland ISD is using Parent Square as the district's form of communication this year. An email as been sent to you to join if your email address is on Skyward. Please join and register your account so you can receive updates from the district as well as from Herfurth Elementary. Please send me an email if you didn't receive an email to join. In the email please include your full name, email address, phone number, student's name and grade.

GISD offers workshops throughout the year with effective parenting strategies, ideas on how to get more involved and information to help your child be successful in school and in life.

SPED Seminar: Project Search Info Night 01/23/2025 5:15 pm - 6:30 pm

Autism Project: Toileting 01/28/2025 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Autism Project: Autism 101 02/04/2025 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Autism Project: Examining Behavior 1 & 2 02/11/2025 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Autism Project: Examining Behavior 3 & 4 02/18/2025 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Autism Project: Communication 02/25/2025 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Autism Project: Socialization 03/04/2025 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Autism Project: Self-Help Skills 03/11/2025 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

SPED Seminar: Trauma-informed Approaches 03/12/2025 9:00 am - 10:00 am

Autism Project: Toileting 03/25/2025 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Autism Project: Autism 101 04/01/2025 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Autism Project: Examining Behavior 1 & 2 04/08/2025 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

SPED Seminar: Resources for Summer 04/09/2025 9:00 am - 10:00 am

Autism Project: Examining Behavior 3 & 4 04/15/2025 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Autism Project: Communication 04/22/2025 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Autism Project: Socialization 04/29/2025 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Autism Project: Self-Help Skills 05/06/2025 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Autism Project: Toileting 05/13/2025 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Request interpretation services

You have the right to an interpreter at no cost to you. Please print or show the I Need An Interpreter card at your campus to request free over-the-phone interpretation services.

Community Swim

While the GISD natatorium is prioritized for competitions and high school events, it is also available for community use. Visit the Community Swim & Programs page to learn more.

We warmly invite you to get involved and volunteer at Spring Creek! Your support plays a vital role in enriching our students' experiences and fostering a vibrant school community. Whether you can lend a hand in the classroom, assist with events, or share your unique skills, your contributions make a significant impact. Join us in creating memorable moments for our children and strengthening our school's bonds. We look forward to your participation!

Please read the volunteer guidelines determined by GISD:

https://garlandisd.net/connect/volunteer/volunteer-our-schools

Link to application: English

Link to application: Spanish

Once your background check is clear, please reach out to Ms. Bermea (our amazing office aide). These are some of the activities you can support our school with:

1. Classroom Assistance: Help teachers with lesson preparation, student supervision, and small group activities.

2. Library Support: Assist in organizing books, helping students find resources, and maintaining a conducive reading environment.

3. Tutoring and Mentoring: Provide one-on-one support to students who need extra help in specific subjects.

4. Gardening and Outdoor Projects: Help maintain school gardens and outdoor learning spaces.

5. Administrative Support: Assist with clerical tasks, such as copying, filing, or organizing materials.

6. Cultural Enrichment: Share your skills, hobbies, or cultural background through workshops or presentations.

7. Cafeteria Support: Help supervise students during lunch and assist with meal distribution.

8. Community Outreach: Help coordinate partnerships with local businesses and organizations to enhance school programs.

On the days that you volunteer, you can have lunch with your student (without using your 5 passes)!

Don’t forget to stop by and shop at our Book Fair to find great reads for your home library! We will be open on Friday and Monday from 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM.

Looking for a way to show appreciation for your child’s teacher? You can purchase a book for their classroom library, too! Come support our school and spark a love of reading! 📖✨

On Tuesday, Feb. 25, our 5th-grade students will take their Science Mock Test! To help them do their best, please ensure they get a good night’s sleep, have a healthy breakfast, and start the day in a positive way. Thank you for your support in setting them up for success! 💡📚✨

Starting next week, our Grades 2-5 Emergent Bilingual (EB) students will begin TELPAS testing. TELPAS (Texas English Language Proficiency Assessment System) measures students’ progress in learning the English language in the areas of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. This assessment helps us track their growth and ensure they receive the support they need to succeed.

Please encourage your child to get plenty of rest and arrive on time each day. Thank you for your support!

Please remind your students that toys should stay at home. While we allow outdoor balls like basketballs and footballs for recess, other toys can be a distraction in the classroom and interrupt valuable learning time. Our goal is to keep the focus on instruction and ensure a productive learning environment for all students. Thank you for your support! 🎓📚

As part of our school-wide positive behavior support system, we have made it a goal to recognize students who follow Spring Creek's Guidelines for Success. STING tickets are designed to acknowledge and reward students who excel in demonstrating these key behaviors. The Guidelines for Success are pictured to the right. When a student earns a STING ticket, they receive a positive phone call home from one of the administrators and are also entered into a raffle to win a trip to the STING Store! The idea behind this initiative is to implement something meaningful for both students and parents.

.....students are diving into exciting lessons, with a focus on building essential skills and setting goals for a successful year ahead!

This week in Mrs. Garcia’s 2nd-grade, students have been hard at work learning how to conserve and replenish Earth’s resources (TEKS 2.5C). Using an engaging anchor chart titled "Cómo ayudar al mundo a no gastar el agua," students collaborated in groups, each taking on a specific role to explore ways to save water and protect our environment. Through teamwork and discussion, our young learners are building a strong sense of responsibility for taking care of our planet! 💧♻️👏

4o

We’re excited to continue tutoring for our 1st graders who have been personally invited by their homeroom teacher and have received parent permission. Sessions will begin the week of January 20th and will take place on Tuesdays & Thursdays from 3:30-4:10 PM.

Thank you for your ongoing support!

We are continuing tutoring for our 2nd graders who have been specifically invited by their homeroom teacher and have received parent permission. This is a reminder that tutoring sessions are held on Tuesdays & Wednesdays from 7:30-8:00 AM.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s homeroom teacher.

We are in need of a parent volunteer to join our Language Proficiency Assessment Committee (LPAC). The LPAC is responsible for identifying and assessing students who are English Language Learners (ELLs) and ensuring they receive the appropriate language support programs, such as bilingual education or ESL classes. This committee plays an important role in supporting our emergent bilingual students and ensuring their success.

If you are interested in volunteering or would like more information, please contact, Nancy Tijerina. Your involvement would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you for your support.

Best regards,

Nancy Tijerina, LPAC Chair

nntijerina@garlandisd.net

972-675-3060

Parents, you can place your order online for the Spring Creek yearbook for the 24-25 school year. All orders this year must be placed online before April 8th 2025. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the yearbook, please contact Ms. Grimes (sgrimes@garlandisd.net)

Link to order the yearbook:

https://ybpay.lifetouch.com/Order/SelectStudent?isAdvertisementOnly=False

Our school code is 14894825

GISD hours for elementary campuses are from 8:10 AM 3:30 PM. We will open our doors each day at 7:30 AM. We ask that parents stay with their children until 7:30 AM since we have no staff on duty to supervise until that time.