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Pence Newsletter

May 2025

Pence NewsletterMay 2025

A message from Mrs. Jones

Parents/Guardians-

The final month is quickly approaching! In the final weeks of school, we have a lot of activities planned and are excited to share them with our students. However, it always seems that once Little League games start up, that we are in competition to keep kids engaged and eager to learn at school. We know that summer is right around the corner, but our job for the next few weeks is to finish strong & be our best for our students!

:)Mrs. Jones


Our Pence Family Picture 2024

🧡Our Pence Family🧡 🧡Our Pence Family🧡

Upcoming Dates

May 1st- K-12 ELL Night- 5pm-7pm @ Pence Elementary Gym

May 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th- 2pm Early Dismissal

May 5th & 6th- 4th to 5th Special Education Transition Meetings

May 7th- 9th- Camp Courageous for Pence

May 7th- Ag Day @ FHS for all of Pence (12pm-3pm); Pence Blood Drive (4pm-7pm)

May 14th- FAST Testing Begins

May 23rd- Senior Walk-through @ Pence

May 26th- No School/Memorial Day

June 2nd- Pence Fun Day & Movie

June 3rd- LAST DAY OF SCHOOL; NOON Dismissal; End of Year Assembly/Talent Show/ 4th grade graduation

Field trip fun @ Jefferson County Park! Field trip fun @ Jefferson County Park!

End of the Year Assembly/Talent Show/Graduation Info End of the Year Assembly/Talent Show/Graduation Info

On the last day of school, June 3rd @ 9am, we will be holding our much anticipated End of the Year Assembly/Talent Show/Graduation.

While I would LOVE to have everyone come to Pence for this special time, we truly have no space in the gym once all our students and staff get in there. To accommodate everyone unable to attend, we will be live streaming the fun at Pence. A livestream link will be provided at a later time.

3rd grade SHOE GIVEAWAY! 3rd grade SHOE GIVEAWAY!

Our friends from The Bridge will be back on May 14th to shower all of our 3rd graders will NEW shoes! Thank you to the many volunteers & donors who have made this possible. It's quite an amazing sight!

End of the Year Talent Show Details End of the Year Talent Show Details

Each year for our End of the Year Assembly, we have been fortunate to have various talents showcased for all to see! While we’d love to have everyone on stage who wants to, we narrow it down to 4 at each grade level.

Below is our timeline for try-outs, etc.

*Week of April 28th, any 2nd-4th grader was able to sign-up for a talent show try-outs.

*Week of May 6th- 1st round try-outs-All students who signed-up for a try-out will be able to perform during an assigned recess. We have grade level representatives who will be choosing students/groups to move onto the next round.

*May 14th-16th (7:30-8am)- 2nd/final round try-outs- Students moving onto this round will be given a letter with a designated date/time to come in before school. If that time/date doesn’t work, please be in touch.

*June 3rd- Our 12 talents will take the stage at our End of the Year Assembly.

3rd grade Market 3rd grade Market

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Ready for the market!

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Kids making their purchases.

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Kids shopping the market.

ISASP Testing- DONE! ISASP Testing- DONE!

We are DONE! Thank you for helping your child be successful by getting to bed early, eating breakfast and showing up to school! It takes everyone to get through testing successfully. We anticipate to have data & information to share home by the end of the school year. I'll keep you posted!

FAST Testing & Summer School FAST Testing & Summer School

Starting on May 14th, we will begin our FAST testing with the CBMr, aReading and aMath. From there our summer school team will be meeting to determine eligibility for summer school. There will be letters coming home the week of May 26th. Please make sure you return your letter if you are interested in summer school. Summer school will run June 9th- July 3rd (Monday- Thursday). Any questions about summer school, please let Mrs. Jones know.

Our Pence students thoroughly ENJOYED the FHS band & choir showcase! Our Pence students thoroughly ENJOYED the FHS band & choir showcase!

EXPLORE last day EXPLORE last day

Hello Pence and Washington Parents!

I just wanted to give you all a heads up that the last day of EXPLORERS before and after school programming for this school year will be on Friday, May 16, 2025.

We are having a big party on the 16th, so some students who don't normally stay on Fridays will likely be staying after school for the party. If you have questions, please reach out!

Thank you,

Katie Boatright

Pence Blood Drive Pence Blood Drive

The 3rd blood drive this year will be on Wednesday, May 7th in the Pence gym from 4-7 pm. Our leaders are excited to greet previous donors, and welcome new donors!

The First Annual Mary Kitch Memorial The First Annual Mary Kitch Memorial

The first annual Mary Kitch Memorial Scholarship is being awarded May 5th at Jefferson County Park in the shelter #3 by the pond from 5-7pm. All students that are or have been involved in the ELL program are welcome to come.

Mary Poppins Jr.- Audition Announcement Mary Poppins Jr.- Audition Announcement

Fairfield Youth Performing Arts has announced their auditions for their inaugural production of Mary Poppins Jr., which will be performed at the Fairfield Arts & Convention Center July 25th – July 27th. Auditions will be held at the Golden Magnolia Sanctuary on Friday May 9th at 6 PM and on Saturday May 10th at 2 PM. This production is open to performers K – 11 and volunteers of ALL ages. If your student has already signed up as a FYPA participant, please follow the QR Code to RSVP for the Auditions OR if your student has NOT signed up, follow the SAME QR Code to pre-register and RSVP for the Auditions. RSVP/Pre-register is not REQUIRED to audition, but it helps immensely in planning for a smooth event. If your student is not interested in performing but wants to participate in an artistic, backstage, or technical support role instead, they are welcome in our group as well. If you have any questions, email board@fypa-theatre.org

Update from Title 1 Services

Here is the Title 1 Newsletter with many resources for families.

April 2025 Trojan Trait Superstars April 2025 Trojan Trait Superstars

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2nd grade Superstars!

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3rd grade Superstars!

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4th grade Superstars!


Our April 2025 Trojan Superstars are those who exemplify Trojan Traits

(Respectful, Responsible & Safe) in and out of the classroom. We are honored to recognize these leaders within each class.


2Bo- The 2Bo Trojan Trait Superstar is Kendyl Cline. Kendyl is someone who comes to school in a positive mood every day. You can count on Kendyl for a helping hand inside and outside of the classroom. Her smile is contagious and can light up any room that she walks into. When something is challenging, she doesn’t give up, she will persevere through it. Whatever the task is that Kendyl is doing, she will try her hardest to complete it. Kendyl does a great job of being a leader and synergizing with the other students in our classroom. You are a great example of what a leader looks like, Kendyl. I am very proud of you. Keep up the great work!


2B- The April Trojan Superstar for 2B is someone who always has a positive attitude. She is always kind and respectful to everyone.Everyone can depend on her to be a good friend, and she brightens the classroom every day. This superstar makes everyone feel included and always puts the needs of others above her own. She is always willing to help other students solve problems in a kind and supportive way. She is always appreciative of others’ different perspectives and experiences. In class, she listens attentively and works very hard, showing responsibility and her love for learning. This Superstar approaches every task with a can-do attitude and is willing to take on challenges with determination and perseverance. She follows all the rules in the classroom and throughout the school. I can always count on her to be a leader and great role model for others. Our April Trojan Superstar is JoJo Caplan. Thank you, JoJo, for being a great leader! Keep up the good work! You are truly a Trojan Superstar!


2Bu- The 2BU Trojan Trait Superstar for April goes to Isaac Forrest! Isaac is one of the sweetest people you will ever meet. He is friendly to everyone around him and gives the warmest hugs. Isaac comes to school ready to learn everyday and makes sure to always check our daily schedule to know what we have planned. He synergizes well with others and is someone that can work with anyone. Isaac is always engaged and is an excellent participator during class activities or discussions. Thank you for being such an amazing leader in and out of the classroom. We are so lucky to have someone like you in our classroom. Congratulations, Isaac!


2J- The 2J Trojan Superstar for April is Cam Cook! Cam is a wonderful example of being a hard worker. Throughout the day, Cam works to show his very best in each lesson that we do. He wants to understand each activity and strategy that we are trying in the classroom. He is proactive in his learning as he asks questions and shares his thinking. Cam is also a great volunteer. Each day, Cam is looking for ways that he can take on additional jobs in the classroom. He is quick to offer his help whenever it is needed. Cam also brightens the mood of his classmates and teachers. He is often telling a silly joke and making others laugh. Cam, you make our classroom a better place. We are so lucky to have you as a part of our classroom and Pence family! Keep up the great work!!


2M- The 2M Trojan Trait Superstar April is a student who has grown so much during the 2nd grade school year. This student’s personality has grown this year! He has become so comfortable with his class family. This leader talks with his classmates and teachers about topics that he has in common with others. He is funny and makes his classmates smile! This student is kind to everyone in our class family. Each day, he is willing to help out his classmates, teacher, and the classroom. At the end of the day, you will see this student helping to make sure our room is ready for the next day. This leader is becoming more independent each day! He is so proud of himself when he accomplishes a task! We are so proud of your growth and leadership, Matias Haynes!! We are glad that you are part of our class family!


3SM- The Trojan Trait Superstar in 3Sm this month has been a great leader for a long time in our classroom. This student’s love for others shines through in every decision they make. She is kind, but isn’t afraid to stick up for what she knows is right. This school year I have been proud of the growth she has made in her confidence! She uses her voice for good. She inspires others to find their voice, but helps them when they might need it. She is respectful to all adults and students in the building, not just the ones who are in our classroom. This month the Trojan Trait Superstar in our room is Lily Haney! Thank you for being so trustworthy, kind hearted, and a leader. We are proud of you!!


3H- The 3H Trojan Trait Superstar for April is someone who has endless energy. This student loves learning new things, sharing ideas with others, and spending time with classmates. She shows respect for her teachers and those around her by actively engaging in her learning. She is responsible by making sure to give her best effort on every task, big or small. She synergizes well with others to further her learning, and makes the experience fun for all those around her. Because of all of these reasons, the 3H April Trojan Trait Superstar is Vivian Miller! Thanks for bringing light and laughter into our classroom, Vivian! Keep up the great work!


3S- The 3S Trojan Trait superstar is someone that leads by example. She works diligently to ensure her work is done to the best of her ability and seeks first to understand to make sure that she gets the content. This student is a proactive leader that thinks win and win to make sure all her peers' voices are heard and valued. Watching this student work in small group or partner groups it is evident that this student is a leader, as she truly synergizes with peers and puts first things first to help others. Students summed up our leaders characteristics simply, stating that she is loving, honest, respectful, inclusive and genuine. Congratulations Dylan Perry! We are so lucky to have you leading in our classroom!


3O- The Trojan Trait Superstar for the month of April in 3O is Dean Cassiday. Dean is kind to classmates and adults at Pence. Dean also thinks win-win and is always willing to work with any of his classmates. He synergizes well with others in class and on the playground. Dean can be found showing his Trojan Traits throughout the school building as well. Whether walking through the halls, or while at specials, Dean can be counted on to do the right thing. We are so happy to have Dean as a part of our class family this year. Keep up the great work, Dean!


3M- The April Trojan Trait Superstar in 3M is someone who was described as kind, nice, and caring by MANY of his classmates. This student always makes sure people are all right (even if it’s the tiniest scratch, said a classmate). Our Superstar is great at making people laugh and he laughs at peoples’ jokes (even if they’re not funny, said the same classmate). I can count on Quinntin Sutherland to be doing his best, helping others do their best, and adding positivity to our class family. One of Quinntin’s classmates wrote, “Quinntin should be a Trojan Trait Superstar because he is kind to others and does his best to learn.” Your leadership is noticed by many Quinntin, keep up the good work!


4N- We are thrilled to announce that Aviva Bar-Shimon has been recognized as our April Trojan Trait Superstar! Aviva embodies a truly giving spirit, always on the lookout for ways to celebrate and share joy with her peers. Her enthusiasm for making others feel valued and appreciated is contagious, creating an uplifting atmosphere in our classroom. Not only is Aviva generous, but she also displays remarkable courage and a curious mind. She isn't afraid to ask questions and explore new ideas, showing a genuine eagerness to learn and grow. Her inquisitive nature inspires those around her to dive deeper into their own learning journeys. Furthermore, Aviva's kindness and inclusivity shine through in everything she does. She makes every effort to ensure that everyone feels welcome and included, fostering a sense of community among her classmates. Her positive attitude and friendly demeanor make her a true joy to have in class. Congratulations, Aviva! Your contributions and spirit make a significant difference, and we are so proud to celebrate you as our April Trojan Trait Superstar! Keep shining bright!


4F- April’s Trojan Superstar for 4F is Ledger Logli! Ledger works hard during class, helps others with patience, and is a good friend to others. I’ve been very proud of Ledger and how he’s been working so hard on his leadership skills. He has been proactive when it comes to choosing to stay away from others that are not making good choices. Ledger uses Habit 4, Think Win-Win while playing at recess and when working with partners and groups. He has also been doing great at synergizing with others. Ledger is awesome at helping classmates and me when it comes to technology issues. He is one of my afternoon cleaning crew students, and between Ledger and the others, they use teamwork and get our room looking nice and organized. He is a great example of a Superstar!


4R- April's Trojan Trait Superstar for 4R is Elijah Arnold. This year, Elijah Arnold has faced numerous challenges as he adjusts to being new in the district. Recently, he has demonstrated significant improvement in making positive choices. Elijah actively participates in class by raising his hand and serves as a role model for his peers. He is open to redirection and shows a clear understanding of taking ownership of his actions. Elijah excels at stopping at the beginning and end of each day to check in with adults, ensuring he shares hugs and high fives during his good mornings and goodbyes.


4T- The Trojan Trait Superstar for 4T is proudly awarded to Owen Day, who is consistently going above and beyond in the classroom each and every day! He demonstrates exceptional gratitude toward others and arrives ready to learn with a positive attitude. No matter where he is, Owen shows what it means to be respectful, responsible, and safe. In the classroom, Owen shines by sharing his ideas, reading aloud, and always offering a helping hand. He is a team player who values the voices of his peers and works hard to include everyone. Since the beginning of the year, Owen has been a true leader, living out the 7 Habits daily and encouraging others to do the same. Congratulations, Owen Day! You are a fantastic role model and a true leader. Keep shining, Superstar, you deserve it!


4Ry- The April Trojan Trait Superstar for 4Ry is Valerie Kessel! Valerie’s ability to work with, and include everyone is commendable. During partner work, she carefully guides her partner to the correct answer, allowing her partner to discover it for him or herself, without simply giving it away. She is a deep thinker and always makes valuable contributions to class discussions and activities. Valerie is a perfect example of a person who admirably “rolls with the punches” that life throws at her, while maintaining a positive attitude and outlook on life. Her work ethic and leadership skills are top notch! Keep being your awesome self, Valerie!


Angela Jones
Pence Elementary Principal/ FCSD Special Education Director
1000 South 6th Street

Fairfield, IA 52556

641-472-2957

angela.jones@fairfieldsfuture.org


Pence Mission Statement: Pence loves me for who I am, celebrates my growth & encourages me to be my best. At Pence, I matter. #giddyup

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