Dear Center Community,
A few belated but extremely important thank yous to extend this week since we didn't publish a Chat last week.
December 2nd was National Special Education Day. At Center Elementary, we are truly fortunate to have an exceptional team of special educators who play a critical role in fostering the success of all students. Our special educators work tirelessly to meet the diverse and unique needs of our students, offering personalized support, encouragement, and innovative teaching strategies. They collaborate with classroom teachers, families, and support staff to ensure every child has the tools and opportunities they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
The dedication, patience, and creativity they bring to their work enrich our school community and help us build an inclusive environment where every child is valued and supported.
Please join us in expressing our heartfelt gratitude to our special education team for their unwavering commitment and the meaningful impact they have on our students' lives:
Special Education Teachers: Nicole Carlson, Megan Iannalfo, Erica Johnson, Jen Krafsig, Katie LaRochelle, Claire Yankopoulos
Speech and Language Pathologists: Heather Tassinari, Shannen Yost
BCBA: Annie Gieseker
Occupational Therapist: Erin Beals
Physical Therapist: Melanie Mezares
School Psychologist: Gabby Morin
Thank you to our CSPTO for treating staff to coffee and muffins on the last "Thankful Thursday" in November. What a nice, warm treat on a cold, wet, day. We are grateful to partner with such a generous, kind, and appreciative community.
The PTO needs your help. The winter gift room is a long standing tradition at Center but it can't work without you! Currently, 8 of 24 volunteers have signed up to help students shop. Please press this link if you are able to give event a little bit of time. https://signup.com/mobileweb/2.0/vspot.html?activitykey=12317142012#choose_event_page
Congratulations to our second grade students who won the PRIDE bucket filling contest for November. They will enjoy an extra recess.
Staff Update:
Gabby Morin, our school psychologist, has chosen to pursue another career path. Her last day at Center will be Friday, December 13th. We wish her well in her new endeavors. The position has been posted and we will provide updates as we have them.
Center Chirps:
- Nurse Felzani is in need of small pants (sizes 4/5 and 6/7) for the nurses' office and would gladly take outgrown clothes that anyone is willing to donate.
A reminder that Thurday, December 12th is a half day for all students. Students will be dismissed at 11:45, please let your teacher know if this impacts their dismissal plans.
Warm Regards,
Dianna and Donna
Food Services Information
This year, and moving forward, Massachusetts is offering all school lunch and breakfast at no charge to students. This does not automatically make families eligible for any other benefits. We strongly encourage families that feel they are eligible for transportation or extended day reduced tuition to fill out the online free and reduced meal application. The links can be found below. https://cpsnutrition.com/index.php?sid=1478035692058&page=lunchapps
If you do qualify for benefits you most likely will be eligible for SNAP benefits. https://www.mass.gov/snap-benefits-formerly-food-stamps
Some examples of SNAP benefits are discounts on gas, electric utilities and internet services.
Please visit our school nutrition website at https://cpsnutrition.com/index.php?sid=1478035692058 for more information about our program and also a link to the free and reduced lunch application.