As October wraps up, our school is buzzing with excitement! From fall-themed activities to enrichment opportunities to after school clubs, students have been fully engaged and motivated. As we move into November, we're looking forward to more learning opportunities and ways to connect with families and the community. Stay tuned for details about upcoming events and celebrations--- there's so much more in store!
Tomorrow, October 25th, we will be having a "Walk, Bike, or Roll" to School event! Weather permitting, we encourage students to hit the streets and get some exercise in the morning before the school day starts!
I'm inviting students to join me and some teachers at the Essex Public Safety Building tomorrow morning at 7:50am to join me on a walk to school! If your child is interested, please drop your student off no earlier than 7:40am on Friday at the Public Safety Building (11 John Wise Ave). Let's get those steps in!
EES students just participated in a heartwarming coin challenge to raise funds for hurricane relief and recovery efforts. Through their generosity and determination, they collected an impressive $1,957.60. The overall class winner for the Coin Challenge was Mrs. Demetri's 5th grade class (pictured below), raising a total of $516.61!! They earned a well-deserved extra recess this afternoon!
Every coin brought in by the students will make a meaningful difference, helping communities impacted by the hurricane build and recover. This effort showcases the power of compassion and teamwork, even at a young age! All donations will be made to Red Cross.
Yee-Haw!
We Love Reading!
Students enjoyed our school book fair! Thank you to Mrs. Silag, Mrs. Donovan, and Copper Dog Books!
October is Bullying Prevention Month
Here at EES, we are committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for all students. Bullying prevention is a team effort, and parents & caregivers play a vital role in ensuring our school remains a welcoming place for every child. During the month of October, I’ll be sharing some tips and resources for how you can support our bullying prevention efforts at home.
Week 3: Navigating Online Behavior and Digital Kindness
These days, bullying doesn’t just happen face-to-face—it can also happen online. Even if your child doesn’t have their own device, they may come across social media or online platforms when they’re with friends. At school, we use RULER strategies like the Meta-Moment to help students take a breath and think before they react, whether they’re in person or online. You can keep the conversation going at home by asking your child about what they see online and encouraging safe, respectful, and kind choices.
If you’re looking for some helpful resources, check out StopBullying.gov for tips on preventing cyberbullying or take a peek at some great books, like The Technology Tail by Julia Cook, which explains digital footprints in a fun and easy way. Another great option is Cliques, Phonies, & Other Baloney from the Smart Girl’s Guide series, which helps kids navigate bullying, peer pressure, and friendships, both in person and online.
Another great option is You Got a Phone! (Now Read This Book) by Elizabeth Englander, which is perfect for kids just starting to use devices. It’s filled with practical advice on staying safe online, managing screen time, and dealing with cyberbullying.
The students in grades pre-K through 5th grade art class recently completed drawings that will be printed on all sorts of cool items for purchase through the Square 1 Art fund-raising program. Square 1 offers families the option to purchase gift items with their child's art printed on them. Friends of Essex Elementary school will be able to receive a portion of funds from the orders. These funds can be used for enrichment opportunities and items needed for the schools. The Square 1 order form packets will be passed out to students during their art class next week. All items ordered will be mailed to the student's home.
In addition to Square 1 Art lessons, students in PreK to 5th grade have been learning about clay and how to make pinch pots, funny face mugs, bowls, and hand shaped soap dishes.
Once all clay items have been fired, the students will begin glazing them.
Look for brightly colored ceramic projects on display within the upcoming weeks.
Friday, October 25, 2024: Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day
Wednesday, October 30, 2024: Wear Pink to school to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Thursday, October 31, 2024: Wear Halloween colors to school
Friday, November 8, 2024: Early Release at 11:45am
Monday, November 11, 2024: No School- Veteran's Day
Friday, November 15, 2024: Messy Art Night
The Cape Ann Kids Holiday Fund supports children in our community by providing gifts for local families. Please click here for information on how to donate and how to apply for support.
Eastern Essex Regional Public Health Coalition
The Eastern Essex Regional Public Health Coalition (EERPH) was formed by an agreement between Hamilton, Wenham, Essex, and Rockport, and exists to improve the ability of local health departments to meet state legislated requirements for public health services. EERPHC staff, consisting of a regional social worker and Regional Public Health Nurse, assess and help provide needed public health nursing, mental health education and support, and social services in the community. Residents are welcome to reach out directly to EERPHC for support.