Loyal Lions- Monthly Edition
San Mateo Elementary Newsletter- December 2025
Early Check Out Policy!
As a reminder, students will not be released after 2:15 PM per DCPS policy. In addition, please reserve early pick up for days when it is absolutely needed. We understand that appointments and emergencies come up at times but please ensure your child is in school the entire day when possible.
Pik My Kid Dismissal System!
We will use PikMyKid again this year for dismissal. All families should download the app. This will allow you to have access to change your child's dismissal, who is allowed to pick up and see when your child is dismissed from school. All changes must be completed by 2:00pm daily. Due to safety considerations, we will not take any dismissal changes by phone throughout the day.
Volunteers Needed!
Classroom volunteers may return to our classrooms on an as needed basis. If the teacher needs a volunteer, he/she will reach out to families. Volunteers may not bring younger siblings to LSE when they volunteer. If you would like to be a volunteer in our school when needed, please make sure you have filled out the volunteer information at https://dcps.duvalschools.org/site/Default.aspx?PageID=29120 or click the icon below.
A volunteer application is good for two years. The same application is needed for those wishing to volunteer in the classroom, chaperone field trips and eat lunch with their child on campus. We encourage any parents, grandparents or other family members who may want to get involved at LSE to fill out this application as early as possible in the school year. Applications can take up to a few weeks to be approved.
Art:
In art we are working continuing to work on our art pieces for the Winter Night of the Arts on December 11th!
5th Grade will be creating murals.
4th Grade will be creating an artwork based on winter.
3rd Grade will be creating an artwork based on the school theme.
2nd grade will be learning about Artist & Illustrator Rob Dunaway and creating a painting.
1st Grade Will be creating a winter hat design for a contest on Winter Night of the Arts.
Kindergarten classes will each do a different artwork for the art show.
Music:
We will continue to work on our Holiday Songs for the Winter Night of the Arts on December 11th!
Physical Education: Students are working on cooperative sports this month.
Memberships are good for one year and help with funding the PTA programs and events. Single memberships are $10.
School Advisory Council
What is SAC?
A School Advisory Council is an elected committee made up of parents, staff, administrators, businesses, community members and students (in secondary schools) who work together to help a school improve. By state law, school boards must establish an advisory council for each school.Become a SAC member!
Get involved! Being a School Advisory Council member is a good way to be an important part of your child's education. Please contact Tammy Boyd at habermant@duvalschools.org for more information.
Meetings are held in the SME Media Center
Fortify FL
FortifyFL is a suspicious activity reporting tool that allows you to instantly relay information to appropriate law enforcement agencies and school officials. Visit https://getfortifyfl.com/ to submit a tip online or download the FortifyFL app.
Business Partners Needed!
We need you! Interested in being a business partner here at SME? Our business partners are invaluable here at SME. If you own or manage a business and would like to learn more about the perks of being a SME business partner, please reach out to Mrs. Griffin at (904)696-8750 or GriffinD@duvalschools.org
Kids Kare
San Mateo Elementary School #218
600 Baisden Road
Jacksonville, FL 32218
Grades K - 5
District #16
School Telephone (904) 696-8750
School Fax: (904) 696-8748
School Hours: 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Extended Day Hours: 7:00am – 8:00am & 3:00pm – 6:00pm