IMES Family News

Each year, our goal is to make our vision statement come alive.

Our vision is to create an inclusive, collaborative, and welcoming community of learners who experience a kind, responsible, and safe environment and a sense of belonging. We believe in creating joyful and meaningful academic, social, and emotional learning opportunities, building a foundation for independence and lifelong learning.

As we begin the new school year, we look forward to getting to know our students and learning and growing together!

February

Monday, February 2: IMES Concerts for Grades 4 and 5 (Snow date 2/9)

Friday, February 6: Wear your spiritwear for Spirit Day!

Monday, February 9: ERJC Meeting 6pm at JJHS

Thursday, February 12; Kindergarten Kindness Concert at 10 am

Thursday, February 12: Board of Education Meeting at 7:30 pm

Friday, February 13: IMpact Team Meeting at 8:15 am

Friday,, February 13: 100 Days of School Celebration Grade 1

Friday, February 13: Campus Parent Portal open for Progress Reports

Monday, February 16 - Friday, February 20: Schools Closed for Winter Recess

Tuesday, February 24: PTO STREAM Convention (Snow date 2/25)

Thursday, February 26: Board of Education Meeting at 7:00 pm

Saturday, February 28: PTO Book Fair Launch 11 am - 1 pm

While we have had two snow days, they were already built into the District calendar. We still have reserve days and the calendar has not changed.

*Not all enrichment programs and experiences are represented on this calendar summary.

Since scheduling is a critical step in providing your child with the best program that our district can offer, it’s important that you have a good understanding of the course selection process at the secondary level. We are providing you with this information so that we ensure all students have access to the courses they request and class sizes in those courses follow our guidelines.

We ask that all families pay careful attention to the deadlines noted below.

February 3: 5th grade parents will receive an email with reminders about deadlines and course selections.

February 4: Students entering 6th grade will have access to the Portal for course selection of World Language and Music.

February 9: Portal closes to students for course selection

March 21: Email parents Parent Portal to verify course selections with deadline.

Kindergarten: February is a busy month in kindergarten! In reading, students continue to focus on decoding CVC words through additive and whole-word blending, both in isolation and in continuous text. Children continue to read decodable books and apply skills of pointing one-to-one, recognizing familiar high-frequency words, and decoding CVC words. Students are also learning to retell stories. In writing, students are thinking about topics they are experts on and writing all about them. Kindergarteners also continue to learn to write simple sentences and use checklists to be sure their writing is easy for others to read. In math, students will continue to explore and develop a basic understanding of addition and subtraction. In science, our budding engineers will be modifying and adapting their pinball machine designs as they learn even more about forces and motion.

Grade 1: First graders continue to grow as readers and writers as we move forward in our informational reading and writing units. Students are exploring real-life topics that spark their curiosity and learning how to share facts about what they know. They are practicing organizing their ideas, using pictures and labels, and writing clear sentences to teach others about topics such as animals, weather, and favorite hobbies. As readers, students are learning how to read informational texts with purpose. They are building important skills such as noticing text features and identifying keywords. During word work, students continue to strengthen their phonics skills. They have learned that a digraph is made up of two consonants that work together to make one sound. Now, students are exploring blends, where two or more consonants appear together and each keeps its own sound. During math, students are learning how to organize and represent information using graphs. They will work with tally marks and create picture graphs to show data in meaningful ways. Students are also building number sense by practicing counting beyond 100 using strategies such as counting by tens, using a number chart to 120, and counting along an open number line. We are also excited to be approaching one of our favorite milestones—the 100th Day of School, which will be celebrated in February! Students will enjoy fun and engaging activities centered around the number 100 as we celebrate how much they have learned and grown this year.

Grade 2: Second grade mathematicians have learned a handful of strategies to subtract two-digit numbers and continue to work to become fluent. February finds us learning how to count coins and tell time to the 5 minutes! Also, a new syllable type will be revealed during phonics! That “bossy r” controls the syllable when it follows the 5 vowels. With /ar/ and /or/ making their own respective sounds, and /er/, /ir/, and /ur/ all making the same sound, we’ll learn that with reading, writing, and practice we’ll begin to recognize and use the correct spellings. Understanding how and why words are spelled supports these young readers and writers as they tackle reading more complex text. February will be filled with persuasive writing with opinions focused on awesome things in their lives like books, fun places, and special people! As writers, students will learn to support opinions with details, evidence, and examples. Grammar lessons focus on identifying parts of speech such as nouns, adjectives, and verbs. Second grade geologists will end their work on how landforms can change rapidly due to stability, then begin a unit in Social Studies about economics. Needs and wants, goods and services, and producers and consumers will be our focus throughout the month of February.

Grade 3: February is an exciting month in third grade, with the Winter Olympics fueling engaging, cross-curricular learning. Students will watch portions of the Olympic opening ceremony and discuss how countries express their cultures and traditions through music, colors, symbols, and other artistic choices. Building on the character analysis work students have already been doing in reading, they will read about Olympic athletes and learn to write focused essays analyzing the traits that help them overcome challenges and persevere, using text evidence to support a central claim. In science, we will continue our unit on weather and climate. Students will extend their learning by examining how climate influences winter sports and impacts Olympic events. In Fundations, students will review open syllables and explore exceptions to this pattern in multisyllabic words, while in math they will build a strong understanding of fractions as numbers—both as parts of a whole and as points on the number line.

Grade 4: In February, fourth graders will shift their focus back to fictional texts. Students will engage deeply with stories by analyzing character development, relationships, settings, challenges, and themes, while strengthening their ability to draw conclusions and support ideas with text evidence. This work lays the foundation for their next challenge: writing thoughtful, well-supported literary essays. Students will learn to craft clear thesis statements, select strong evidence, and explain their thinking in detail as they connect specific parts of a story to its larger meaning. In math, students will extend their understanding of multiplication to include multiplying fractions by whole numbers and will use the four operations to solve problems involving time. They will also read, create, and interpret line plots, applying their fraction knowledge to data measured in halves, fourths, and eighths of a unit through hands-on practice. Finally, students will wrap up their study of European exploration and colonization by connecting these events to the establishment of the 13 English Colonies, then begin exploring the exciting journey toward the American Revolution, one of the most engaging and memorable units of the year!

Grade 5: In the month of February, fifth grade mathematicians will spend a lot of time talking about pizza, cornbread, lasagna, and trays of brownies as they continue their work with fractions. Addition and subtraction of fractions with unlike denominators began in January and is followed by addition and subtraction of mixed numbers. Multiplying and dividing fractions and mixed numbers will come next. In ELA, 5th graders have been working on their informational text reading skills. This has included focusing on text structures, main ideas, and supporting details. Strategies presented during this instruction include stop and jot, connecting text parts and text features, and looking for repeated words. Word attack is another important part of this unit, and 5th grade learners look at ways to use context clues and morphology to determine the meaning of content specific vocabulary. Fifth grade writers will sharpen their pencils and start the work of writing literary essays. This work will focus on organization, introductory phrases, and determining meaningful text evidence.

As per our MTTS District Plan, mandated by New York State, benchmarks, or screenings, took place in January and are continuing in early February for all grades K-5. The assessments are administered as a whole group and individually, depending on the grade and subject area. The results of the screening along with other school data will be reviewed by the IMES Team in early February. If your child qualifies for services, changes their level of services, or exits services based on the criteria outlined across the district, you will receive parent communication no later than February 13.

Classroom Teachers and Special Area Teachers are completing progress reports for our students. Progress Reports will be made available on February 13 via the Parent Campus Portal. You will receive an email when the reports are available for viewing.

The progress report reflects your child’s progress in relation to the current NY State Standards. Student performance is reported on a continuum from beginning to secure for the specified time of year. As the year progresses and as children move from one grade level to the next, schoolwork becomes more challenging, and expectations increase accordingly. Therefore, the assessment indicators -beginning, developing, approaching secure, and secure- may vary as the student moves from semester to semester, or from year to year. Thus, a rating of “secure” may change in a particular area over time. Due to the pacing and/or complexity of the curriculum, some indicators may not be expected at the beginning or middle of the year, therefore, you may see NE, indicating a standard is not expected for that time of year. (See Progress Report Rating Scale below.)

The grade reporting system includes information about your child’s approach to learning as a whole (work and study habits), and their progress in academic areas. Within each academic category, there is an ‘At-a-Glance' description of the content area topics that are addressed at that time of year, as well as the standards that are being assessed. Teachers use a variety of methods to determine strengths and areas that require attention and support. The teacher comments section aims to give you a holistic view of your child as a learner and address specific learning goals.

Katonah-Lewisboro values ongoing communication between home and school. While there is one dedicated parent-teacher conference in our school calendar, families and teachers can reach out at any time to set up additional communication. This report may be a resource for helping students set goals as they seek to advance to the next level. We will continue to help all children grow at their own level of ability and readiness. We remain committed to your child’s success and creating a positive elementary school experience.

Progress Report Rating Scale

Beginning (B): Not yet demonstrating any independence in meeting standard expected at this time of year.

Developing (D): Starting to show some independence in meeting standard at this time of year.

Approaching Secure (A): Demonstrating independence in meeting standard at this time of year, however it is not yet consistent.

​Secure (S): Independently and consistently meeting standard expected at this time of year​.

(NE): Not expected at this time.

Additional Information:

• The progress report includes sections for ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies, Visual Arts, Music and PE all in one multi-page document. The same rating scale is applied throughout.
• If you have questions about the content of your child's progress report, please reach out directly to the classroom teacher(s).

This spring, all KLSD students in Grades 3-8 will be taking NYS ELA, Math and Science tests via Computer Based Testing (Note: The NYS Science Test is only taken in Grades 5 and 8). The 3rd, 4th and 5th Grade ELA State Test will be on April 14 and 15 and the 3rd, 4th and 5th Grade Math State Test will be on April 28 and 29. The 5th Grade Science State Test will be on May 7.

Kindergarten

Kindergarten students will focus on final preparations for their Kindness Concert, with special attention to singing together, using dynamics (loud and soft), and making smooth transitions between songs. After the concert, students will build a strong understanding of tempo through fun, movement-based songs using unpitched percussion instruments. They will also be introduced to the woodwind family of the orchestra.

First Grade

First-grade students will continue developing note-reading skills using Orff instruments, identifying notes on the staff while performing simple rhythms. They will explore the families of the orchestra through Peter and the Wolf, learning about strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion while connecting music to emotions and storytelling. Students will also celebrate the African influence on music in the Americas by exploring rhythms from North America, the Caribbean, and Latin America.

Second Grade

Second-grade students will focus on dynamics in music, learning common dynamic markings and how they affect musical expression. As they continue building a strong foundation in music theory, students will explore composition by creating a short piece that includes familiar rhythms and dynamic changes. Students will also celebrate the African influence on music in the Americas by exploring rhythms from North America, the Caribbean, and Latin America, and by learning about African American composers and musicians.

Third Grade

Third-grade students will continue strengthening their recorder skills, performing songs using the notes B, A, G, D, and C. Emphasis will be placed on producing a clear tone and playing together as a unified ensemble. Students are encouraged to practice at home and to bring their recorders and books to each class. In addition, students will explore jazz music, learning about the Blues and the contributions of influential Black musicians such as Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Ella Fitzgerald.

Fourth Grade

Fourth-grade students will continue developing their ukulele skills, strengthening chord proficiency while learning to play popular songs. Students will also step back in time to explore the music of Haydn and Mozart. In addition, they will explore jazz improvisation and learn about the contributions of influential Black musicians, including Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Ella Fitzgerald.

Fifth Grade

Fifth-grade students will continue learning music from Matilda Jr., focusing on healthy vocal production and improving overall ensemble sound quality. During class, students have begun blocking and staging scenes as part of their preparation for the performance.

On February 25th and 26th, students in grades 3–5 will experience an African drumming class with Mr. Henry Jones! Mr. Jones has over 25 years of experience teaching music and has led many classes for students of all abilities in our area. We are fortunate to collaborate with Mr. Jones to bring his knowledge, experience, and insight to the Increase Miller community. This residency program offers our students an exciting and transformative exploration of drumming and songs from West Africa. Thank you to the PTO for making this event possible!

Dear IMES Families,

Ahead of our annual PARP (Pick a Reading Partner) celebration this March, the IMES library is currently seeking donations of used, good condition elementary books for our K-5 book swap which is scheduled for all grades the week of March 23rd. We will be collecting donations through the month of February until Friday, March 20th (but please note, the sooner the better). If your bookshelves are overflowing at home, please consider looking through them and sending in some of the books that you are ready to pass along. Books can be dropped off in the donation bin at the front of the school, or directly to Mrs. Hoffman in the library. Thank you for helping to make this event a fabulous success for the students!

February is an exciting and creative month in the art room! Students are beginning their special artworks for our Square 1 Art Fundraiser. During art class, students are creating original pieces inspired by a variety of artists and styles, including Jeff Koons, Heather Galler, Ted Harrison, and Jen Aranyi. Students are also exploring important art concepts such as color value and creative expression through the art process.

These meaningful artworks will later be transformed into keepsake items such as prints, magnets, or other custom products that families can purchase. While the creative process begins now, families will receive more detailed information about the Square 1 Art Fundraiser in the Spring.

This IMES PTO fundraiser is a wonderful way to celebrate student creativity while also supporting our school. We can’t wait for families to see the beautiful and imaginative artwork your children are creating! Stay tuned for more details!

Our 4th and 5th grade students are taking the lead in PE through student-led fitness workouts! These leadership opportunities empower students to design and guide warm-ups and exercises for their classmates, building confidence, responsibility, and teamwork while reinforcing lifelong fitness skills.

Across grades K–5, students are also staying active and engaged with Winter Olympics–themed PE activities. Through fun, age-appropriate games inspired by winter sports, students practice movement skills, cooperation, and sportsmanship while celebrating the excitement of the Olympic spirit. These activities promote physical fitness, creativity, and a love of movement for all learners.

During February, our K-5 Classrooms will continue to learn about emotions and self-regulation with our Social Worker, Ms. Ryan. She will be discussing Size of the Problem and Size of the Reaction during our February Sharing Assemblies and classroom lessons. We help students recognize that the size of their problem should match the size of their reaction.

Our book of the month is Marvelous Now written by Angela DiTerlizzi and illustrated by Lorena Alvarez Gomez. Through rich, imaginative language and vibrant illustrations, this picture book invites readers to notice the small, everyday wonders happening right now—from puddles and shadows to quiet thoughts and big feelings. The book encourages slowing down, paying attention, and appreciating who we are and what we’re experiencing in the moment, rather than rushing ahead or dwelling on the past. The book reminds students to be self-aware (thoughts and feelings), regulate and manage (pause instead of react), and empathize (people experience the moment differently).

February is Black History Month, and we are celebrating the achievements of African Americans and recognizing their central role in U.S. history. Also known as African American History Month, the U.S honors the contributions and sacrifices of African Americans who have helped shape the nation. The event was created by historian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent African Americans to highlight the achievements, resilience and cultural significance of the African American community. Our heritage learning board features Martin Luther King Jr. and other notable leaders who have positively contributed and influenced our society. During our K-2 and 3-5 Sharing Assemblies and during our daily Morning Announcements we will highlight remarkable individuals, both past and present.

We are also excited to welcome Henry Jones who will be teaching African Drumming to our third, fourth, and fifth graders Mr. Jones will be leading workshops in our general music classes during the last week in February.

We also recognized Lunar New Year this week. We welcomed the Chinese Cultural Center back to IMES to perform dances and teach us some Chinese words and phrases. See some of the pictures below and ask your child about what they learned!

We are excited to continue our work with our Start With Hello 5th Grade Leaders! Throughout February, these student leaders will be visiting recesses for kindergarten through 4th grade to help model Start With Hello steps and ideas, promoting inclusion and kindness across our school community. Our leaders have also shared wonderful ideas for creating posters around the school to further highlight and celebrate this important schoolwide effort.

IMES Green Teams have met a few times and have discussed the topic of waste, particularly in classrooms and in the lunch room. Green Team members also met with Mr. Wilson, our head custodian, to ask questions about the waste system in our cafeteria. Mr. Wilson shared data about waste, recycling, and compost bins. The Green Team discussed this data and explored ways to reduce waste in our building. The Green Team is planning to spread awareness about options to reduce waste to our school community. The Green Team is also preparing to ‘kick-off’ the Waste-Free Wednesday (Every Day) campaign in March. This message will be shared at an upcoming assembly and signage about the Waste Free Wednesday campaign will be spread throughout the building. All students at IMES will have opportunities to earn ‘Green Eagle Eyes’ for their sustainable efforts!

We will once again participate in the 'Valentine's for Vets program.

The Valentines for Vets program gives school children an opportunity to create Valentine’s Day cards for our local veterans, letting them know we appreciate everything they’ve sacrificed, and that they aren’t forgotten.

The Valentine’s Day cards will be delivered to local Veteran’s organizations this month.

As a reminder, please be sure your child comes to school in clothing that is appropriate for outdoor play.

If the temperature, including the wind chill, is below forty degrees, students should wear the following:

• Warm coats
• Long pants

On snowy days in order to play in the snow (including sledding) students will also need:

• Snow pants
• Boots
• Hats
• Gloves

Please be aware that if a student is not dressed appropriately, he or she will be unable to attend outdoor activities (including recess). If the temperature including the wind chill falls below twenty degrees, the students will stay inside for recess. Dr. Louis A. Corsaro, the school district physician, has advised us in these matters.

Please remember to enter in all dismissal changes in Visitor Aware by 12 PM. Late submissions have increased and this causes confusion for teachers, students, and staff. It is important that dismissal changes are communicated by the designated time. If you have any questions, you can contact Eden Ladd at eladd@klschools.org.

DASA seeks to ensure a safe and supportive environment for all students, free of discrimination, intimidation, harassment, taunting and bullying. If you are aware of an incident or have a concern, please contact one of us listed below. You will be asked to complete the BOE Incident Reporting Form (see "button" below for attachment).

Kerry Ford, Principal and IMES Dignity Act Coordinator 763-7155 or kford@klschools.org

Michael Weschler, Assistant Principal (designee) 763-7117 or mweschler@klschools.org

Kiri Ryan, Social Worker (designee) 763-7155 or kryan@klschools.org

A written excuse is required by New York State Law each time a child is absent or late. The excuse should be sent with the child when he/she returns to school or on the day of lateness. In addition to the specific dates, the reason for the absence or lateness should be stated in the note and signed by a parent or guardian.

Parents are requested to enter their child's absence in our new Visitor Aware System (see directions above). If a child is absent and you do not enter their absence in Visitor Aware, the school will attempt to contact the parent. This is done for the safety and protection of the child.

Thank you to Ms. Willett and the Grade 5 orchestra students for performing at our January Sharing Assemblies!

Thank you to our Kindergarten Teachers for planning the Q & U wedding!

Thank you to the IMES PTO for supporting our enrichment programs, including heritage celebrations like Lunar New Year, and field trips!

Thank you to our custodians, especially Rich Wilson, for preparing the campus after our big snowfall!