The Weekly Update Panther Pride

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Summer is a time for sunshine, play, and a much-needed break—but it can also be a season of continued growth and learning. At Alma Public Schools, we proudly offer two exciting summer opportunities to keep students engaged, supported, and prepared for the upcoming school year.

We are still accepting registrations for our K-5 Enrichment Summer School Program and the 5th to 6th Grade Transition Boot Camp. Both programs provide meaningful experiences that combine academics with fun and personal development.

Enrichment Summer School: Learning That Feels Like Summer

Our K-5 Enrichment Summer School is specially designed to help students strengthen core academic skills while engaging in creative and collaborative learning. Through interactive lessons, games, and hands-on activities, students will continue to build their confidence in reading, math, science, and social skills.

This program is ideal for families looking to prevent summer learning loss, reinforce important concepts, and give their children a strong start to the new school year—all in a supportive and fun environment. Students will benefit from small group instruction, project-based learning, and opportunities to explore new interests.

Transition Boot Camp: Preparing for Middle School Success

For our rising 6th graders, the transition to middle school is a significant milestone. To help ease this shift, we’re offering a 5th to 6th-grade Transition Boot Camp in August. This program will familiarize students with their new school routines and expectations while building confidence and connections.

Students will have the chance to:

• Tour the middle school and learn their way around
• Practice using lockers and navigating schedules
• Meet key staff and future classmates
• Participate in team-building activities that support social-emotional growth

By the end of the boot camp, students will feel more comfortable and excited about entering this new phase of their academic journey.

How to Sign Up

Flyers for both programs, along with registration links, are in this week’s Panther Pride Newsletter. We encourage families to sign up soon—spaces are limited, and we want to ensure every student has the opportunity to benefit from these summer programs.

Let’s make this summer a discovery, connection, and learning season. We look forward to seeing your child there!

Your partner in education,

Dr. Konowalow

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As we approach the end of the school year, we want to thank you for your ongoing partnership in your child’s learning. While summer is a time for fun and relaxation, it’s also important to help your child keep their academic skills sharp. Without regular practice, students can experience the “summer slide”—a loss of knowledge and skills gained during the school year. Here are some simple, fun ways you can support learning at home this summer:

📚 Keep Reading Daily

● Make reading a habit: Aim for 15–30 minutes each day.

● Visit the library: Let your child choose books they’re excited about.

● Read together: For younger readers, reading aloud builds vocabulary and fluency.

✏️ Practice Writing for a Purpose

● Start a summer journal: Have your child write about their day or trips.

● Send letters or postcards: Encourage writing to friends or relatives.

● Use creative prompts: "If I were a superhero..." or "My dream summer day..." can spark fun stories! 🔢 Make Math Meaningful

● Use real-life math: Count change, measure recipes, or calculate travel time.

● Play games: Card games, board games, or apps like Prodigy or Khan Academy Kids are engaging ways to reinforce skills.

● Math challenge of the week: Post a fun problem for your child to solve!

🧠📆 Set a Simple Summer Routine

● A little structure goes a long way. Consider setting aside a short “learning time” each day, even if it’s just 20 minutes of reading or math.

📲 Helpful (Free!) Resources

● Storyline Online – Celebrities read children's books: storylineonline.net

● Khan Academy – Math and reading practice: khanacademy.org

● PBS Kids – Educational games and videos: pbskids.org

By weaving small academic activities into your everyday routine, you’ll help your child start the next school year strong and confident.

Educationally Yours,

Jennifer Jaeck MTSS Coordinator

1st Grade Creativity

2nd Grade Creativity

3rd Grade Creativity

4th Grade Creativity

5th Grade Creativity

Student of the Week and Month:

Earning Student of the Week or Month honors as part of a PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) school acknowledgement program can be an exciting and motivating way for students to be recognized for positive behavior. Here are the ways in which students can earn Student of the Week or Month honors: