The Wednesday Weekly
November 6, 2024
Message from Ms. Joanna
Dear PS 107 Families,
The day after Election Day always brings with it a range of emotions. Our students came to us today with all of their feelings, and our remarkable staff made sure to listen carefully and remind everyone what our community stands for – kindness, compassion, and care. It is important to remember what is written into our school’s mission statement: Together, we have the power to create a more equitable world. Let us stand together to make that world a reality and continue to create an environment that we can believe in – one that values diversity, inclusion, compassion, and joyful learning.
TONIGHT: REMOTE HOMEWORK FOR ALL STUDENTS, PREK-5
In the event of a future remote learning day, all schools are being asked to “stress test” the NYC Public Schools remote learning systems. This evening, all PS 107 students should log in to their Google Classrooms and complete a brief homework assignment from their teachers. This must be completed at home – and not at afterschool – so that we can get a sense of how many students need help with logging in and whether the system can support many students online at once. If your child has difficulty logging in, please reach out to their teacher.
TOMORROW: NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS + PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES
As a reminder, there is no school for students tomorrow. Only students who are pre-registered for emergency childcare will be admitted to the building. (Families who signed up for this received details via email earlier this afternoon.)
We will also host Parent-Teacher Conferences tomorrow, 11/7, in the afternoon and evening. By now, you should have signed up for a conference slot with your child(ren)'s teacher(s). All conferences will be virtual, unless otherwise requested.
If you would like to meet with one of our specialty or academic intervention teachers, please email them directly to set up an appointment time. They are available during the same windows as classroom teachers, 1-3 pm and 4:30-7:30 pm.
Crystal Barnes, 2nd-5th grade Science: cbarnes13@schools.nyc.gov
Ali Annunziato, PreK-5th grade Physical Education: aannunziato@schools.nyc.gov
Mark Sacoto, PreK-5th grade Physical Education (available from 1-3 pm only): msacoto2@schools.nyc.gov
Gary DiFranco, PreK-5th grade Music: gdifranco2@schools.nyc.gov
Julie Brunner Cross, PreK-5th grade Art: jbrunnercross@schools.nyc.gov
Peg Galella, PreK-2nd grade Library + Academic Intervention/English as a New Language: mgalell@schools.nyc.gov
Arelys Vasquez, 1st grade reading intervention: avasque5@schools.nyc.gov
As a reminder, you will not receive a report card prior to tomorrow’s Parent-Teacher Conferences. As of Fall 2022, PS 107 distributes report cards twice a year, at the end of January and at the end of June. At this first conference, you can expect your child’s teacher to provide you with an update on how they are doing in reading, writing, math, and with social-emotional skills.
GOT EXTRA CANDY?
Last but certainly not least, if you find yourself with an abundance of extra Halloween candy following last week’s festivities, we’re happy to take it off your hands here at PS 107! We try to keep our Conference Room stocked with treats so that our staff can get a quick recharge when they need it. Please drop off candy or other individually wrapped treats with Nadia in the main office anytime. The entire PS 107 staff thanks you!
With gratitude for all of you,
Ms Joanna
Parent Coordinator Updates
SCHOOL INFORMATION
PS 107 PARENT WORKSHOP : GENDER 101
Please join us for our next parent/caregiver workshop called Gender 101, presented by the Ackerman Institute’s Gender and Family Project.
According to the Gender and Family Project, the purpose of training is to increase awareness of gender. This training provides basic information on gender including terminology, language, pronouns, and the impact of gender roles and expectations.
When: Tuesday, November 12th, 5:30-7 pm
Where: Virtual, please scan the QR code to register and receive a zoom link or view the attached flyer.
PS 107 GARDEN SPOTLIGHT
FIFTH GRADE & MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWS
- New! PS 107 PARENT PANEL w/Sarah Green
- Thursday, November 14, 2024 - 7 to 9 pm - Click here to register
- D15 Middle School Fair Presentation from 10-30-24
- Click here
- NEW! Middle School Admissions Timeline
- November 8, 2024: Deadline to register to test for Mark Twain I.S. 239 (21K239) and District 21 Talent Tests
- December 20, 2024: Middle school application closes
- April 9, 2025: Middle school offer release
PICTURE RE-TAKE DAY - 11-19-24
Irvin Simon will be in the building to take pictures of students who missed having their picture taken on September 30. They will also re-take pictures if you would like them done. If this is the case, please notify your child's teacher and cc Nadia at nbenlarbi2@schools.nyc.gov . We need to make a schedule for the day and so advance notice is not only necessary, but appreciated :)
LOST & FOUND - Updated 11-6-24
We still have many jackets here, so come and check them out!
Check this document for some updated pictures : Did You Lose Me?
*If you see an item you now have in your possession, please just ignore the picture in the document
The FLAG Award for Teaching Excellence recognizes and celebrates extraordinary public school teachers who inspire learning through creativity, passion, and commitment.
One grand-prize winner from each of the five NYC boroughs will receive a $25,000 unrestricted cash prize, and their schools will receive a $10,000 grant designated for use in an arts-based initiative designed by each winner.
The nomination process is open until November 24, 2024.
Click here if you would like to nominate a teacher: https://flagaward.org/
CAFETERIA SURVEY
Please provide your feedback regarding cafeteria offerings via this survey (available in all DOE languages).
Note: The survey takes approximately five minutes to complete and will be open until December 13.
NYCPS / DISTRICT 15 / COMMUNITY
ELECTION REFLECTION FROM CHANCELLOR MELISSA AVILES-RAMOS
Please see the attached letter of reflection regarding Election results.
*Translations are available for download at schools.nyc.gov/messagesforfamilies
D15 FAMILY WORKSHOP : LUNCH & LEARN SERIES
This 7 part series will share ideas & strategies to positively support your child's behavior at home.
Join us Friday's at 12pm : Nov 8 & 22 , Dec 6 & 20
Zoom link:
https://zoom.us/j/93903954056?pwd=GKhLyG6NlUSeb9gw0fvNlO1339A2X3.1#success
NYCPS is hosting a citywide family and community resource fair at Murry Bergtraum High School (411 Pearl Street; New York, NY 10038) on November 16 from 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
If you are interested please register (https://bit.ly/FACEResourceFair ) by November 15.
The event will be a space for all school families to have fun and connect with NYCPS offices, community-based organizations, city agencies, cultural institutions, and more.
CEC15
CEC15 VACANCY
CEC15 currently has a vacant seat on the council for the parent of a Multi Lingual Learner student and is accepting applications. Please apply to the DOE directly at CCECinfo@schools.nyc.gov. Do not submit the application to CEC15. Eligible candidates will be invited to attend a candidate forum (date to be determined). Do not delay your application.
*Applications in nine languages and all information about eligibility to CECs can be found here. Please also visit CECd15.org to learn more about our organization.
Basic eligibility rules require that the applicant be a parent of a student in grades Kindergarten through 8th, or in a Pre-K program, who currently attends a non-charter public school or Pre-K program in the district where the applicant wishes to serve on the CEC. Please follow the links for more requirements.
** See attachment below for translated flyers
CEC 15 Calendar/Business Meetings
Date: Tuesday, November 19th
Time: 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Location: Brooklyn High School Of The Arts, 345 Dean St, Brooklyn, NY 11217, USA
This meeting will be held in person with a livestream option via zoom, please register now using the following link: https://nycdoe.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJArduGprDkvHNBVVL2taVGsdgRRteI_4TOG
Date: Tuesday, December 10th
Time: 6:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Location: PS 516 Annex - 4308 4th Avenue
This meeting will be held in person with a livestream option via zoom, please register now using the following link:
https://nycdoe.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJcpcuivqTwvH9Rj4DA9U-7XmSr33TASHlZk
*A list of upcoming meetings is available at CEC15.org
FAIR FARES NYC
Fair Fares NYC is a City program created to help New Yorkers with low incomes manage their transportation costs. For more information, please visit the FAIR FARES NYC website.
REMINDERS
FAMILY INCOME FORMS
All families should complete the Family Income Inquiry Form, which helps schools receive money for their programs ,whether or not they qualify for free or reduced lunch. The deadline for submission is December 13.
NYC SCHOOLS ACCOUNT - NYCSA
This is a NYC DOE parent account for students grades K - 12 that enables parents/guardians to view all of their children’s records - grades, fitnessgrams, attendance, your child’s DOE email, etc. At least one parent/guardian will need to have access to this account.
We strongly encourage all parents/guardians to have their own account. Any parent with children in grades k-5 who does not have their own NYSCA , please contact nbenlarbi2@schools.nyc.gov for instructions and your unique account creation code.
JOIN KONSTELLA!
Did you know that Konstella is where the school calendar information can be found?
In addition, a great deal of schoolwide parent communication at PS 107 is sent out via the Konstella platform.
If you are not already signed up for Konstella, please follow the directions here.
HELPFUL TIPS
MAKING SCHOOL DAY DISMISSAL PICK-UP CHANGES
If there is a change to your child’s dismissal, please be sure to note the change on the Daily Dismissal form in Operoo. If it is a same day change, please email your child’s teacher and cc Nadia at nbenlarbi2@schools.nyc.gov in addition to making any changes on the Daily Dismissal form. You can also contact the main office at 718-499-2054.
MAKING AFTERSCHOOL DISMISSAL CHANGES
If you need to add a new pick up person for your child in afterschool, please make sure to update this on 6Crickets (Click Here). Afterschool and PS 107 partner in many ways, but not with our information applications. They can't access Operoo and we can't access 6Crickets.
Thank you for your assistance in ensuring your child's safety 😊
LOWER GRADES
Please be sure to send your children to school with a full change of clothes. Accidents can happen easily when they are younger as they often get distracted and don’t check in with their bodies. Please be sure to return your child with a new set the next day if they need to be replaced.
LABEL!
Please parents, remember to label your student’s water bottles, lunch boxes, backpacks, and clothing with their full name (last names are essential!) and if there is space, please include their class number. We want to be able to return all fabulous items to their rightful owner!
IDENTIFICATION
When entering the school building you must present your ID to the safety agent when signing in.
One helpful tip is to take a picture of your id. Often, we will have our phone with us even if we don’t have our id. This way, you always have it handy :)
PTA Updates
UPCOMING EVENTS
- Book Club Meetings – MONTHLY: Tuesdays, 7:30am
- Math Magic Meeting – WEEKLY: Wednesdays, 7:30am
- CHiPS Food Drive – WEEKLY: Wednesdays, 8:20am
- Thursday Morning Track Run – NOT MEETING Thursday, November 7
SAVE THE DATE
Terracycle Waste Day Collection – Wednesday, November 13, 8:20am
Parents Supporting Special Education (PSSE) Meeting – Thursday, November 14, 12pm
AAPI Affinity Group Meet-Up - Friday, November 15, 8:30am
Special Education Middle School Panel – Wednesday, November 20, 7pm
Winter Craft Fair – Saturday, December 14
Disney On Ice – Saturday, January 18, 7pm
CLUBS AND MEETINGS
THURSDAY MORNING TRACK RUN (TMTR)
Every Thursday, rain or shine, students and guardians are invited to join the legendary PS 107 Track Team for a weekly morning run in Prospect Park.TMTR will meet in front of PS 107 each Thursday at 7am, where participants will warm up before heading to Bartel-Pritchard Square for a 45 minute run/trot/jog. No running experience required - we hope to see you there!
BOOK CLUBS
Everyone is a reader – some just haven’t found their favorite book yet! If your child is looking for literary inspiration or loves to talk about a good book with friends, please consider joining us for monthly book club meetings Tuesday mornings. Meetings are underway for Grades K, 1, 3, and 5; registration information and meeting details for these grades have already been emailed. Note: Participating students in all grades must remain with a parent or guardian throughout book club meetings.
Want to be a PS 107 Literacy Legend and lead a book club for grade 2 or 4? Sign up using the link here.
MATH MAGIC
On Wednesday mornings from 7:30-8:20am, join us in the 4th floor art room for games, puzzles, worksheets, coffee, doughnuts, and Pi. (Bring your own reusable mug, if possible.) Sharpen your math skills with friends and mingle with kids and parents from other grades. All ages and proficiencies welcome. Please note: Participating kiddos are asked to remain in the art room until 8:20am and parents or guardians of students in all grades are asked to stay for the duration. We hope to see you there!
PSSE MEETING
The Parents Supporting Special Education November meeting is Thursday, November 14th, from 12-1pm on Zoom. Please join us for a general neurodiversity Q&A with PS 107 parent Dr Erica Miller, licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in neuropsychological assessments and evidence-based treatments, as well as updates on the new sensory area and upcoming PSSE projects and events.
AAPI AFFINITY GROUP MEET-UP
Please join us for the AAPI Affinity Group coffee meet-up on Friday, November 15th at 8:30am at Pasta Louise (1114 8th Avenue at 12th Street). We would love to meet parents and guardians of any PS 107 students who identify as AAPI. If you have any questions or would like to reach out, please email the group co-lead Yumi Kobayashi (kobayashi.y@gmail.com). Looking forward to seeing old friends and meeting new ones; we hope to see you there!
FUNDRAISERS
ANNUAL FUND
Contribute to the Annual Fund, which directly supports essential school programs and resources. Here’s how:
- Donate via Konstella here,
- Share this link with non-Konstella using friends and family, or
- Leave a check made out to PS 107 PTA with Ms. Nadia in the office.
- We also accept gifts of stock here - stock donations are tax-free!
YOUR GIFT MATTERS! Many thanks to our amazing school community for all of the ways you contribute.
SPECIAL EVENTS
TERRACYCLE WASTE DAY COLLECTION
Terracycle accepts hard-to recycle packaging and other trash in exchange for points to trade in for cash for our school, planting trees for deforestation, and more. Bring hard-to-recycle items of trash to school on Wednesday, November 13th at morning drop-off, outside the main entrance. Items being collected for recycling include oral care items and deodorant containers, squeezy pouches (rinsed with caps on), Brita filters and pitchers, and torn/stained (non-donatable) kids clothing.
COMMUNITY HELP IN PARK SLOPE (CHiPS) FOOD DRIVE
Every Wednesday at morning drop-off, rain or shine, the Community Outreach Committee will be collecting food donations for CHiPS, a soup kitchen and food pantry which helps support neighbors currently experiencing food insecurity.
Find volunteers by the school’s main entrance where they will be collecting:
o Sandwiches, (please label w/ contents)
o Bread Packages
o Lunch Meat Packages
o Eggs
o Tortillas
o Individually Portioned Prepared Meals, (please label w/ contents)
o Microwavable meals
o Jars of Peanut Butter and/or Jelly
o Cereal/Instant Oatmeal
o Shelf Stable Milk and Juice
o Fruit Cups
o Fresh Fruit
o Individually Wrapped Snacks
o Ziplock and Grocery Bags, and Plastic cutlery
PSSE SPECIAL EDUCATION MIDDLE SCHOOL PANEL
Join the PSSE Special Education Middle School Panel on Wednesday, November 20th from 7-8:30pm on Zoom (link to follow) to hear from current Middle School parents on their special education experiences at local Middle Schools.
DISNEY ON ICE
Step inside the magical adventures of Disney's Frozen and Encanto as they are brought to life like never before at Disney On Ice. Over 140 tickets have already been purchased by PS 107 families; join in the fun on Saturday, January 18th at 7pm at the Barlcays Center. Tickets can be purchased through Zeffy for $45 each, with $11 per ticket going to the PTA.
If you would like to attend but need financial assistance, please contact Parent Coordinator, Nadia Benlarbi.
2024-2025 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
CLASS PARENTS
Class parents are still needed for the following classes: 3-304, 4-303, 4-307, 5-301, and 5-305.
If you are the parent of a child in one of the above classes, please consider volunteering as a class parent using the link here.
SPECIAL EVENT LEADS
PS 107 is a school like no other thanks in large part to the generous efforts of our school community. We are currently looking for leads/planners for the following school events; please consider donating your time using the links below:
Winter Craft Fair (Saturday, December 14th)
During the Winter Craft Fair, the big yard is transformed into a seasonal holiday marketplace where teachers, students, guardians, and members of the school community come together to buy and sell their home-made wares.
If you are able to help plan this charming, beloved event, please sign up on Konstella here.
STEM Day (Saturday, March 15th)
During STEM Day, PS107 will turn into an interactive Science-Technology-Engineering-Mathematics Extravaganza! If you have a background in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics and are willing to help organize this interdisciplinary event, please sign up on Konstella here.
Spring Auction
Our auction in the spring is the single largest fundraising event of the year. We will need leaders to make it a success, so if you are interested in getting involved in a high impact fundraiser for the school, this is the event for you! Please sign up on Konstella here.
If you are unable to lead the event but want to help out, consider signing up to help get some great items for auction! This is a flexible volunteer role that can be done around your schedule. Sign up to be an auction donations volunteer on Konstella here.
SUPPORTING THE PTA = SUPPORTING PS 107
Thank you to everyone in our school community for all of the ways you show up!
School Calendar
2024-2025 NYCPS CALENDAR
For the complete 2024-2025 school year calendar, please click here.
*Please note that Parent teacher conferences on 11/7 and 3/6 are non attendance days for students. This is not reflected in the DOE calendar but was a school based decision.
For the complete 2025-2026 school year calendar, please click here.
UPCOMING EVENTS
November 7 - Parent Teacher Conferences
November 8 - PS107 Farmstand & Bake Sale Fundraiser
November 12 - Gender 101 Parent Workshop - 5:30 to 7 pm
November 14 - Middle School Parent Panel 7 to 9 pm
November 19 - Picture Re-Take Day!
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
November 7 - Parent Teacher Conference Day - Student non-attendance day/ Teacher Professional Development
November 11 - Veteran's Day - School Closed
November 28 & 29 - Thanksgiving Recess - School Closed