Dear Robert H. Down School Community,
A Note on Recent Events
As we process the tragic news from Minneapolis, our hearts are heavy with grief for the victims, their families, and the entire community. This senseless act of violence is a somber reminder of the challenges we face as a society. In moments like these, it is more important than ever that we come together as a school community to support one another, lean on our shared values of empathy and compassion, and foster a sense of safety and belonging for all.
Counseling and Mental Health Support
A huge thank you to everyone who joined us for the Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Workshop. We're grateful to our counselor, Sonda Frudden, for leading a fantastic evening this past Tuesday. For a brief overview of our Social Emotional Learning program at Robert Down, please click here.
This year, we’re launching Promenade with the Principal, a new event to discuss important topics. Our first one is on Wednesday, September 3, from 9 AM to 9:30 AM. The topic will be Counseling and Mental Health Services. You'll get to meet our school counselor, Sonda Frudden, and our mental health therapist, Julia Triplett, to learn about the support they provide for our students.
After-School Choir
Thanks to our general music teacher, Mr. Jared Masar, we’re offering after-school choir for students in Grades 3-5. The choir will meet on Tuesdays, starting September 9. Click here for more information and to sign up.
Community Event
Did you know that two of our very own Robert Down students, Tenar Karai and Emmi Leyva Nguyen, are in the Forest Theater production of “Annie?” If you or your family are looking for a fun activity to do as a family, tickets can be purchased here. The show runs Thursdays-Sundays until September 21.
Important Safety Updates
Successful Evacuation Drill: Our students did an excellent job during last Friday's evacuation drill. They followed all instructions, and we were able to account for everyone within six minutes. Our next drill will be on Friday, October 10, at 10:20 AM and will focus on earthquake safety.
Parking and Drop-off/Pick-up: For the safety of our students, please do not double-park in any loading zones on Pine Avenue, Spruce Avenue, and 13th Street. Always pull completely to the curb and watch for children as you merge back into traffic.
Join Our "Culture of We"
We are committed to nurturing a sense of belonging at Robert Down and encourage every family to get involved.
Safety Committee: Safety continues to be a priority for us as a school and as a District. If you are interested in serving on our School Safety Committee and/or serving as a representative for Robert Down in the District Safety Committee, please indicate that on this form. Many thanks to those of you who already indicated your interest through the Family Survey earlier this year.
Walk with P.R.I.D.E: Plan to join us on Saturday, September 6 from 9AM-12PM on the Rec Trail by Lovers Point and raise funds that directly benefit classrooms and programs. Click here to make a donation. More information will be sent home this week.
RHD PTA is looking for individuals to donate items to the RHD Mix & Mingle Gift Basket. Please click here to sign up to donate an item or two.
Off-Campus Activity Parent/Volunteer Driver Form In order to volunteer as a driver for field trips this year, you must be cleared to drive with our District in addition to being fingerprint cleared. The driver form must be completed once per school year. (Fingerprints only need to be cleared once while your child is enrolled in PGUSD.)
Upcoming Dates to Remember
September 1st: Labor Day- NO SCHOOL
September 3rd: Promenade with the Principal- Topic: Counseling and Mental Health Services @ 9:00AM
September 6th: Walk with P.R.I.D.E. at Lovers Point 10AM-12PM
September 15-October 15: National Hispanic Heritage Month
September 17: Constitution Day
September 24: Picture Day
Wishing you a wonderful Friday and Labor Day weekend!
Sincerely,
Emily Tsai Brownfield, Principal
