Panther Express
January 20th - 23rd, 2026
No School Tomorrow
Principal's Message.
- This week, we continue ACCESS testing for all students who meet ESOL eligibility criteria.
- In addition, we're excited to welcome the Atlanta Braves and their mascot, BLOOPER, to Park Street on Thursday for a presentation on baseball and living a healthy, active life.
- Our 5th graders have an opportunity to visit Marietta High School's College and Career Academy. They will have an opportunity to participate in classes that support: nursing, architecture, engineering, construction, and other career pathways available to ALL MARIETTA CITY STUDENTS!
- We wish our Reading Bowl participants luck at the district competition this Friday.
The Power of Being Present.
As we start this new chapter, I want to emphasize two factors that more than any others correlate with student success: consistent attendance and punctuality.
Why Every Day Counts.
When a student is absent, they don’t just miss a lesson; they miss the collaborative discussions, the hands-on activities, and the social connections that make learning meaningful.
Academic Momentum: Lessons are often sequential. Missing one day can make the next day’s material feel overwhelming.
Confidence: Students who attend regularly feel more connected to their peers and more confident in their ability to keep up with schoolwork.
The Importance of "On Time."
Arriving at school on time is just as vital as being here. The first 15–20 minutes of the day often set the tone for the rest of the day.
Morning Routine: This is when teachers share daily goals, distribute materials, and build classroom community.
Reducing Anxiety: Walking into a classroom late can be stressful for a child. Arriving early allows them to settle in, organize their thoughts, and start the day with a sense of calm.
Our Shared Goal.
We understand that illnesses and family emergencies happen. However, we ask for your support in prioritizing school attendance whenever possible. By ensuring your child is here and on time, you are sending a powerful message that their education and their presence in our community are valued.
Thank you for your continued support and for being such an integral part of our school family. Let’s make 2026 a year of incredible growth and achievement!
Your Proud Panther Principal,
Mr. Soto
w: (770) 429-3180, ext. 7016
c: (470) 650-5607
Family Safety Drill Notification:
Park Street Families.
On Tuesday, Jan. 13th, we conducted our state-required safety drills as part of our regular safety procedures. These drills are practiced monthly in schools to ensure staff and students are prepared to respond to various events, including building evacuations, lockouts, lockdowns, and sheltering.
If at any time you have questions regarding our safety drills, please feel free to reach out to me directly.
Thank you,
Mr. Soto
PARK STREET CALENDAR
Performing Panthers / Chorus Schedule
- Wednesday, Jan. 21 - 3:30-5:30 - Music Room
- Wednesday, Jan. 28 - 3:30-5:30 - Music Room
- Wednesday, Feb. 10 - 3:30-5:30 - Music Room
- Wednesday, Feb. 11 - 3:30-5:30 - Music Room
- Wednesday, Feb 24. - 3:30-5:30 - Music Room
- Wednesday, Feb. 25 - 3:30-5:30 - Music Room
If you have any questions about the Performing Panthers or the Finding Nemo cast, please don't hesitate to get in touch with Mrs. Elena Prestwood at eprestwood@marietta-city.k12.ga.us
January 2026 PTA Newsletter
Grade Level Newsletters
School Information
Student Health and Attendance
Keeping illness out of the school is one of the best defenses for all types of sickness. If your son or daughter is ill, please keep them home. This allows your child to recover and prevent others from becoming sick.
If your child stays home for more than 48 hours due to an illness, don't hesitate to get in touch with your child's teacher and or Nurse Nicole. Our school nurse is here for guidance and support.
Return to School Protocol
- Symptoms clear within 24 hours → return to school*
- *Must be fever-free for 24 hours
Thank you for helping keep Park Street a healthy place to learn, grow, and thrive.
-Mr. Soto
Community Opportunities
Before & After School Programs
Girls Inc. Afterschool Program
Marietta City Community Schools: Before and After School Programs
Marietta Police Athletic League (Marietta PALS)
Marietta Boys & Girls Club









