Tuscan Tidings
Newsletter, Issue 2, Vol. 11 | 12.23.21
Principal's Message
Greetings Tuscan Family~
We hope this month's edition of the Tuscan Tidings finds you and your loved ones safe, healthy, well and ready for a wonderful Holiday Recess!
Earlier this month, as December came upon us with the holidays and gift giving season in mind, Mrs. Makasakit and Mrs. Skawinski’s 5th Grade Team spent time brainstorming and reflecting on the non-material gifts that we have and can offer to our friends and loved ones. The 5M/5Sk students made "gift boxes" that described and illustrated their many gifts, skills and talents. School subjects, sports, hobbies, friendship traits and family contributions were among some of the gifts shared. Students enjoyed this feel-good activity that allowed them to recognize their talents and the significance of non-material gifts.
As the calendar year comes to a close, when we think about our awesome Tuscan School family our hearts are filled with gratitude. The return to in person learning for our wonderful students is a privilege that can never be taken for granted. We are beyond thankful for our phenomenal Tuscan Teachers who all give so much of themselves to foster student learning and meet the social/emotional needs of Tuscan’s children. Thank you to all Tuscan Teachers for the daily commitment to keeping Tuscan’s children healthy and engaged in learning. Know that we are always deeply grateful for the opportunity to share in this important work of keeping Tuscan’s children safe and well-educated.
We are deeply grateful for the outstanding support and generous gifts that we receive from our amazing Tuscan PTA and awesome Tuscan parents. As a caring Tuscan Family you have also generously offered support to make the holiday season brighter for your neighbors and community members in need. Your concern and generosity are truly a gift.
We hope that while taking care of your children and families, each of you will remember to also take good care of yourself. Know that your health and well-being are important! If you need anything, please do not hesitate to reach out to us via email at ROARforTuscan@somsd.k12.nj.us as we are here for you and stand ready to offer guidance for accessing resources and support.
Thank you again for all you have done in support of student learning at Tuscan!
Wishing you and your family a wonderful Holiday Recess and a very Happy & Healthy New Year that fills your hearts and homes with love and laughter!
Ms. Malikah Tamar Majeed, Tuscan School Principal
Mr. Brad Bertani, Tuscan School Assistant Principal
Ms. Angela Thompson, Tuscan School Nurse
Tuscan Pajama Drive Collects 430+ Pairs of Pajamas!
Tuscan’s Pajama drive is an annual tradition that Mrs. Sinclair began in 2010 as a community service project to provide a cozy new pair of pajamas for local children in need.
On December 22, 2021, all pajamas were donated to Family Assistance Resource Center (FARC Community) of Orange, NJ.
Thank you to all Tuscan families, faculty and staff who made the 2021 Pajama Drive such a success!
The Best Children’s Books of 2021!
The children's books on the websites listed below have been carefully selected by librarians, editors, and educators. Many of these titles are available at the Tuscan School Library, the Maplewood and South Orange Public Libraries or through MackinVIA.
Enjoy!
■ The 2021 New York Times/New York Public Library Best Illustrated Children’s Books
■ Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) - Notable Children’s Books - 2021
■ The Best Books of 2021 from Bank Street College (There are several lists, divided by age level.)
■ The Best Books of 2021 from School Library Journal
Additional Resources:
Ms. Popp
Tuscan School Library Media Specialist
TUSCAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
The School District of South Orange and Maplewood
Email: ROARforTuscan@somsd.k12.nj.us
Website: www.somsd.k12.nj.us/tuscan/
Location: 25 Harvard Avenue, Maplewood, NJ, USA
Phone: 973-378-5221