The Wednesday Weekly
December 17, 2025
Dear PS 107 Families,
As we head into the final days of 2025, I want to begin with gratitude for the many ways our community continues to show up for one another with generosity, flexibility, and care.
A Big Community Thank You: Book Fair & Holiday Craft Fair
A huge thank you to parents Tyler Mills, Feba Michel, and Rachel Opsal for organizing last week’s annual Powerhouse Book Fair. Supporting a local business and our school at the same time? That’s a win-win we’re always happy to celebrate.
Thank you as well to Steph Shaw and Catharina Oerlemans for organizing our now-annual Holiday Craft Fair this past weekend. What a treat to be able to shop local for the holidays while also benefiting PS 107. These events truly reflect the strength and creativity of our parent community.
Lead-Based Paint Update
Thank you to all of you for your continued support and understanding as, per our schoolwide communication on Sunday, 12/14, we address the lead-based paint recently identified in rooms 105 and 106. Both rooms remain closed to students, including during afterschool, and I’m deeply grateful to our community for your flexibility as we’ve navigated room changes and adjusted drop-off, bathroom, and dismissal procedures.
In particular, I want to acknowledge Ms. Jeannie (K-106) and Ms. Silvetti (K-105), who have recreated welcoming classrooms on the 4th floor and continue to engage their students in joyful, meaningful learning every single day. Our Kindergarteners have also demonstrated tremendous flexibility during their temporary relocation, which we are so pleased to see.
At this time, we anticipate that students will be able to return to their classrooms, and that regular procedures will resume, by no later than Monday, January 5th.
Snow & Ice from the Roof
Some families have also noticed that snow or ice occasionally slides off our school’s roof, sometimes with a very loud (and alarming!) sound. This happens every winter due to the pitch of our roof.
The roof is equipped with snow guards designed to break up snow and ice as it slides so that, if it falls, it is not hazardous. As an added precaution during snowy or icy weather, we encourage families to walk closer to the edge of the sidewalk when passing the building to avoid an unexpected snow shower.
Spirit Days Before Winter Break
We’re ending the year with two fun spirit days:
Monday, 12/22 – Holiday Attire Day
Show how your family celebrates the winter season! Whether that means a festive sweater, clothing worn for holiday celebrations, or winter-themed colors, wear it on Monday.
Tuesday, 12/23 – Schoolwide Pajama Day!
On our last day before the break, get cozy! Students may wear pajamas and bring a favorite stuffed animal to school.
This will be our final Wednesday Weekly of 2025, and I want to thank you for your incredible partnership, generosity, and trust throughout the year. To our families celebrating Hanukkah, I wish you a joyful and meaningful holiday. Hanukkah Sameach!
Wishing all of our families a warm, restful holiday season and a happy, healthy New Year. We look forward to welcoming students back to school on Monday, January 5, 2026.
Warmly,
Ms. Joanna
NYCPS MESSAGES FROM THE CHANCELLOR
Empowering Strong and Healthy Students: The NYCPS School Wellness Policy
CEC 15 & CHANCELLOR TOWN HALL
Sincere thanks to everyone who participated in the recent Chancellor's Town Hall, whether virtually or in-person. If you weren't able to be there, we invite you to watch the recording.
Your thoughtful questions helped us engage in a meaningful conversation with the Chancellor, one that we know will be one step in ongoing advocacy to support our schools and families.
While there was not time to answer every question, we have shared all questions with the Chancellor for follow-up and will pass her responses to the community when we receive them.
How New York Families Can Save for College — and How Some Have $100 Already
Click here to view this informative article regarding the NYC Kids Rise Save for College program.
NYC SCHOOLS ACCOUNT - NYCSA
The NYC Schools Account (NYCSA) is a NYCPS parent account for students that enables parents/guardians to view all of their children’s records - grades, fitnessgrams, attendance, your child’s NYCPS email, etc.
At least one parent/guardian will need to have access to this account. We strongly encourage all parents/guardians to have their own account. Any custodial parent who does not have their own NYCSA , please contact Nadia for instructions and your unique account creation code.
To set up your account, you will need a unique account creation code and your child's OSIS # or Student ID.
- A letter with directions and with your unique account creation code will be sent to you.
- The OSIS# or Student ID is an 9 digit number that can be found in Operoo in the Student Profile.
MARBLE HEALTH DECEMBER & JANUARY WORKSHOPS
Supporting Your Child with Stress
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18 @ 6:00 PM
Supporting Students with Academic and Test Anxiety
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7 @ 8:00 PM
Navigating the Autism Spectrum: Helping Your Child Learn, Connect & Thrive (New!)
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14 @ 8:00 PM
Ayudando a los niños a tener éxito: Estrategias para la función ejecutiva (en español)
THURSDAY, JANUARY 15 @ 7:00 PM
Helping Kids Succeed: Executive Function Strategies
THURSDAY, JANUARY 22 @ 6:00 PM
Managing Screen Time
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28 @ 8:00 PM
HAPPY REINDEER RUN! **NEW DATE**
Woohoo – lots of “antlers,” prizes, and medals are in store for everyone On Saturday December 20th when the PS 107 Track Team will hold their annual Bandit Reindeer Run 5K in Prospect Park!
This 5K is open to PS 107 track team members, parents, friends, family, siblings and other PS 107 students and families. You just need to (Parents, if your child is in 2nd grade or below please plan on having an adult run with your child for safety.) We will run the big loop and finish on Center Drive.
As an extra special holiday treat, the PS 107 Cheer Squad will once again wow us with a pre-race cheer routine as well as ongoing cheering for our runners at the finish line!!
The money raised will go to the Y to give the gift of fitness to those in need in our community.
Sign up for the race through the YMCA Virtual Run 2025 - Park Slope Y - Virtual 5K - Campaign and let us know EVERYONE who is running so we can get enough “antlers.”
Check -in on Center Drive at 1:00 pm
Start at 2 pm from Lake Drive
SHARE THE WARMTH
PS 295 is hosting a coat giveaway for families in the community.
This is open to all caregivers in district 15.
It's first come first serve.
Date/Time: Wednesday, December 17th from 4-6 pm.
Location: 330 18th street at the PS 295 School Gym.
SCHOOL RESOURCES
HELPFUL TIPS
Please click here for helpful tips regarding, absences, late arrivals, and more!
PS 107 FOOD PANTRY
If your family is experiencing food insecurity, please stop by the food pantry!
It is stocked with shelf stable staples and reusable bags are provided.
Sign in with Agent Sharon and tell her that you are going to the cafeteria.
The pantry is located in the basement, across from the cafeteria. It is in the single student bathroom area, in the line of cabinets.
Food Pantry Hours: 8am to 10:30 am Monday through Friday
LOST & FOUND: Donated!
Did you Lose Me? Please check this document to see if there are any missing items that we have found 😄
If you have already claimed an item included here, YAY!
Thank you!
PARENT/CAREGIVER HANDBOOK & DEVICE/SCREEN USE POLICY
If you have questions about school operations, policies, or procedures, be sure to check our Parent Handbook first. Please click this link to view our Device Policy as well : PS 107 Cell Phone, Smart Watch, and Other Device Policy
If you don’t see the answer there, feel free to reach out to your child’s teacher if it is classroom-specific or Nadia Benlarbi, Parent Coordinator, if you have more of a school-wide question, at nbenlarbi2@schools.nyc.gov.
LEARNING RESOURCES
NEW SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL LEARNING CURRICULUM
PurposeFull People: Gratitude
This month, our students are beginning the Gratitude unit in our PurposeFull People social-emotional learning curriculum. They’ll explore what it means to recognize and express appreciation — for people, experiences, and even small daily moments that bring joy.
Families can find ideas for extending these lessons at home here.
Previous Units:
- PurposeFull People’s Family Newsletter on Respect
- PurposeFull People Family Newsletter on Responsibility
SCHOOL NEWS
- No Afterschool on December 23rd
- PS 107 PTA November Meeting Link
CLUBS AND MEETINGS
MATH MAGIC
Join us weekly in the PS 107 Art Room for Math Magic! Every Wednesday, from 7:30am until 8:20am, enjoy puzzles, games, coffee for the adults (bring your own reusable mug if possible), doughnuts, and Pi. All ages and skill levels welcome. Parents must stay with students—no drop-offs. Questions? Contact Elaine Mui at eemooey@gmail.com
THURSDAY MORNING TRACK RUN (TMTR)
Every Thursday at 7am, weather permitting, students in grades K-5 and their guardians are invited to join the legendary PS 107 Track Team for a weekly morning run in Prospect Park. TMTR will meet in front of PS 107 where participants will warm up before heading to Bartel-Pritchard Square for a 30 minute run/trot/jog. No running experience required - we hope to see you there!
FUNDRAISERS
ANNUAL FUND
The PTA board would like to extend our immense gratitude to everyone who donated to the Annual Fund since Giving Day, and to the three amazing PS 107 families who anonymously matched your donations!
We've exceeded our match and have raised $47,775 thus far in December!
If you’ve been waiting until the end of the year to make your tax-deductible donation, there’s still time before the new year to make your one-time or monthly donation via Konstella, check (to “PS 107 PTA”), or stock donation. Friends or family members outside the PS 107 community can make a gift via this public URL.
Thank you so much for powering this community effort, and for ALL of the ways you show up for all of our kids!
If you have questions about the Annual Fund, please contact PS 107 parent Betsy Goldfarb (betsy@ps107.org)
Why support the Annual Fund?
PS 107 relies on PTA support to supplement DOE funding, which consistently falls short of what's needed. This partnership between families and the school makes possible important programs such as Art and Science, as well as supplies, curriculum materials, extra classroom support, and so much more. THANK YOU in advance for your contribution! Please contact PS 107 parent Betsy Goldfarb with any questions about the Annual Fund: betsy@ps107.org.
FOLEY FIRS CHRISTMAS TREE FUNDRAISER
Foley Firs will be selling Christmas Trees on 8th Ave and 8th St from now until Monday December 23rd. Free delivery! Mention PS 107 when buying your tree and Foley Firs will donate $10 to our PTA for each tree sold. You can also order online - be sure to enter PS107 during checkout. Reach out to foleychristmastrees@gmail.com for more details.
PARENTS SUPPORTING SPECIAL EDUCATION (PSSE) GOURMET POPCORN SALE
Tuesday, December 23, 2025
Afternoon Pickup
PSSE is partnering with Popcorn For the People, a social enterprise company dedicated to creating jobs for neurodiverse adults. They offer 5 delicious flavors of gourmet popcorn: Caramel, Cheddar, Kettlecorn, Butter, Espresso.
Makes great grab bag or stocking stuffers at $10 per bag!
Order in advance: email Lisa with the number of bags you would like to order, and we can arrange drop off before or after school this week or next week. Proceeds will benefit PS 107 including sensory tools for Classrooms and Support Services.
Bag size: 4 cups of popcorn.
Click here to view the link in Konstella.
SPECIAL EVENTS
COMMUNITY HELP IN PARK SLOPE (CHiPS) FOOD DRIVE
Every Wednesday at morning drop-off, rain or shine, the Aid and Action Committee will be collecting food donations for CHiPS, a soup kitchen and food pantry which helps support neighbors currently experiencing food insecurity. Find volunteers by the school’s main entrance where they will be collecting:
Sandwiches, (please label w/ contents)
Bread Packages
Lunch Meat Packages
Eggs
Tortillas
Individually Portioned Prepared Meals, (please label w/ contents)
Microwavable meals
Jars of Peanut Butter and/or Jelly
Cereal/Instant Oatmeal
Shelf Stable Milk and Juice
Fruit Cups
Fresh Fruit
Individually Wrapped Snacks
Ziplock and Grocery Bags, and
Plastic cutlery
Paper towels
Lysol/clorox wipes
Ground coffee
Mac and cheese
Spaghetti sauce
Shelf stable milk (32oz)
Water (16.9 oz)
Canned beans
Pasta
Rice
Mayonnaise
Mustard
Canned meats (tuna/sardine/chicken)
Canned fruit
Canned soup
Eggs
Butter
Students can now earn the Food Drive Merit Pin by volunteering at the CHiPS collection table on Wednesday mornings. Email Julie Mee Schmidt (juliem@ps107.org) if your child would like to volunteer for this service project.
WINTER GEAR SALE
We’ve got your winter gear needs covered! The PS 107 Gear Store is OPEN, and we've got your winter needs covered!
Order online by Thursday, December 18th and pick-up on Friday, December 19th. Stock up on your favorite 107 wear and check off your last-minute shopping—all while supporting our school! For any questions contact dannyfried@gmail.com.
STAFF HOLIDAY POTLUCK
It's the most delicious time of the year at PS 107! Let's treat teachers and staff to the Annual Holiday Potluck on Friday, December 19th. This includes breakfast, lunch, and afternoon treats. Potlucks are a wonderful PS107 tradition; teachers and staff revel in all of the delicious foods and treats that families bring. There are a multitude of ways for everyone contribute to this event, so please check out the list on Konstella and if you are able, sign-up to bring a dish, help set up, serve, or clean!
LICE CHECK
The PTA organizes school-wide lice checks as needed throughout the year to help prevent and/or contain the spread of lice around our school. The next check will take place on Thursday, January 8th. Please contribute to the cost of school-wide, professional lice checks by submitting a one time payment of $15 per child using this link: Lice Checks Once Annual Fee
BROOKLYN NETS GAME FUNDRAISER
The NBA is back! On Saturday, February 7th at 3pm, join us at the Barclays Center to cheer on the Brooklyn Nets while supporting our school at PS 107's annual fundraiser game. Tickets are $55 (lower level) or $30 (upper level), with $10 from every ticket going directly to the PTA. Purchase tickets here. *Get your tickets by January 7, 2026 to get the best price and to guarantee your seats will be in the PS 107 reserved sections.
*Please contact Nadia for scholarship information :💙💛
LIVE BAND KARAOKE WITH THE OCCASIONALISTS
Warm up those vocals, book the babysitter and save the date for a fun night out to benefit the PS 107 PTA. On Friday, February 6, from 6-10pm, you can sing live band karaoke with The Occasionalists at Littlefield (635 Sackett St) -- or simply dance, drink and cheer on the talent. This event is open to everyone so if you have friends or family who would love a night out and to support PS 107, please invite them to save the date, too!
DISNEY ON ICE
Save the date: On Sunday, February 1st, at 1pm, join PS 107 families at the Barlcays Center where Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party, a fast-paced, family-friendly production that follows the search for Tinker Bell through stunning worlds. Explore the colorful spirit realm of Coco with Miguel, brave the ocean with Moana, marvel at Belle’s enchanted chandelier, sing with Elsa, and watch Stitch crash the action with mischievous surprises - all while raising money for the PTA. Featuring spectacular ice skating, daring aerial stunts, and memorable moments from Aladdin, Toy Story, and The Little Mermaid, this is sure to be an event to remember!
Tickets on sale now through Zeffy.
*Please contact Nadia for scholarship information :💙💛
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
GRADE LEVEL BOOK CLUBS ARE BACK!
Love books and building community? PS 107 Book Clubs are gearing up for another great year—and we’re looking for a few volunteers to help make it happen! Grades 3, 4, and 5 still have openings for Book Club Leads (or co-leads) to help plan and host their grade’s monthly book club gatherings. If you’re interested in helping out — we’d love to hear from you! Email adam@ps107.org and christine@ps107.org to learn more or sign up.
2025-2026 NYCPS CALENDAR - click here
2025-2026 KONSTELLA/SCHOOL CALENDAR - click here
UPCOMING EVENTS
December 17 - Share the Warmth Coat Giveaway @ PS 295 4-6 pm
December 20 *New Date* - PS 107 REINDEER RUN
January 7 - PS 107 Day!
January 8 - Schoolwide Lice Check
HOLIDAYS / SCHOOL CLOSURES
December 23- No Afterschool at PS 107
December 24 to January 2 : Winter Recess School Closed
JOIN US ON INSTAGRAM!
Scan the QR code and follow our 107 IG account!