The Roar of the Mountain Lions
Monterey Elementary-November 2026
Dear Monterey Families,
As we begin the second nine weeks of the 2026–2027 school year, I want to take a moment to celebrate the wonderful things happening throughout our school community. This year, we are embracing our theme, Mission Monterey, with a shared commitment to learning, growing, and working together to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed. Each day, I am reminded of the incredible energy of our students, the dedication of our staff, and the strong support of our families. Monterey is truly a special place to learn and grow!
Our students continue to engage in meaningful learning experiences as they read, write, problem-solve, collaborate, and build the skills they need for the future. The progress made during the first nine weeks has provided a strong foundation for continued academic achievement and social-emotional growth. We are excited to see what the remainder of the year will bring as we continue our Mission Monterey journey!
I also want to extend a heartfelt thank-you to our families for your continued partnership and support. Your involvement makes a tremendous difference in your child's educational experience. Whether you are supporting learning at home, volunteering, attending school events, or offering words of encouragement each morning, please know that your contributions are valued and appreciated. It truly takes a village, and we are grateful to have such a caring Monterey community.
As we move into the cooler months, we know that seasonal illnesses can sometimes affect student attendance. We appreciate your continued efforts to ensure your child attends school regularly and that appropriate documentation is provided when absences occur. Every school day is an opportunity to learn, connect, and grow, and consistent attendance plays an important role in student success.
We have already created some wonderful memories this school year! Our students and families showed tremendous support for our Paw-a-thon fundraiser, and we were especially excited to host our first-ever Community Trunk or Treat! It was wonderful to see families come together to fellowship, enjoy fun and festive activities, and support our PTA. The smiles, laughter, and sense of community made the evening truly special. These moments remind us that Monterey is more than a school; it is a family!
As we continue through the school year, I encourage everyone to stay connected, get involved, and embrace the opportunities ahead. Together, through our Mission Monterey spirit, we will continue building a school community where every student feels valued, supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their fullest potential.
Thank you for allowing us to be part of your child's journey. I am excited about all that lies ahead and look forward to continuing our mission together!
With Monterey Pride,
Lezlie Yaeger
Principal of Monterey Elementary
The Community Empowerment Center at Booker T. Washington offers one-stop support for RCPS families by bringing key services and trusted partners together under one roof. Whether you’re new to the area or looking for continued support, we’re here to help your family feel confident and connected. From enrollment assistance to family workshops, the center supports every stage of your child’s school journey.
The Community Empowerment Center can help families with:
- Welcome Center (assistance with student enrollment, translation services, and navigating RCPS programs)
- Health Services (immunizations, screenings, mental and physical wellness navigation)
- Family Resources (food pantry, clothing closet, basic needs referrals)
- Workshops and Classes (adult education, financial literacy, parenting support, and job readiness)
- Navigation Supports (mental health services, housing stability, and financial empowerment)
Click HERE to learn more about the new Community Empowerment Center.
Student ID Badges
All RCPS students will need their school issued ID badge to scan on and off the bus each day. Additionally, students can also use their badges to:
- Check out library books at their school and through Roanoke Public Libraries
- Early dismissal and tardy check-in
- Log in to specific computer programs
- Pick up their lunch
- Check into the nurse
- Enter school-sponsored events
- And receive a discounted rate through Valley Metro
If a student loses their ID badge, families should immediately contact the school, so the ID can be deactivated. The first two ID replacements will be free. Additional replacements must be purchased for $5 from the school.
To read more about the new student ID badge program, click HERE.
Visitors
Monterey Mascot Shop
The Mascot Shop is where families, students, and supporters can grab fun and spirited merchandise featuring our school logo! From t-shirts to hoodies, to sweats and backpacks, there is something for everyone to show off their Monterey pride.
Even better-10% of all sales go directly back to Monterey Elementary to support school programs, classroom resources, and student activities. It's not just shopping--it's fundraising for our community.
Check out the link here!
Message From the PTA
Message From the PTA
THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! The success of our newly reimagined Trunk-or-Treat and Autumn Treats event would not have been possible without the incredible support of our families, volunteers, and school community. Thank you to everyone who donated, decorated trunks, provided treats, and joined us for an evening of fun and fellowship. This year, we refreshed and expanded what was previously known as Pumpkin Palooza, and the overwhelming participation and positive feedback made it a tremendous success. We are grateful for the time, creativity, and enthusiasm that helped create such a memorable experience for our students and families. Your partnership continues to make our school community a special place to learn, grow, and celebrate together!
PTA Meetings:
If you would like to attend any PTA meetings, please e-mail Ms. Laughlin at tlaughlin@rcps.info for more info on how to access our meetings. The next virtual PTA meeting is November 5th at 5:30.
Ways to support the PTA:
Consider linking your Kroger account to Monterey Elementary PTA through the Community Rewards. Kroger will donate a percentage of what you spend to our PTA at no cost to you.
We are always looking for more parent helpers and would love to have your help. Follow the Monterey Elementary PTA Facebook page for information about upcoming meeting and opportunities to help—https://www.facebook.com/montereyelementarypta/
Why should I join the PTA?
As a member of our PTA, you are supporting your student's school and educational successes. You are also a voting member. When you come to a PTA board meeting you can vote on how we should spend funds or how to improve a program. Please consider joining the PTA. There is a $7 fee for each member that joins. A portion of this fee pays for local and state PTA membership fees, and a portion goes directly to our school’s PTA.
How to Join to PTA?
It is just $7 to join the PTA. Click the box below to join!
Stay up-to-date with new information-Click here or scan the QR code to follow us on Facebook.
Monterey Elementary
Lezlie Yaeger~Principal
Quiana Fields~Assistant Principal
Website: Monterey Elementary School / Homepage (rcps.info)
Location: 4501 Oliver Road Northeast, Roanoke, VA, USA
Phone: (540) 853-2933
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MontereyElementary