October Bobcat Blast

Dear Parents and Guardians of Newberry Elementary School,

It is an absolute honor to introduce myself as a dedicated partner in your child’s learning journey. I am originally from Wisconsin, and most recently, I have had the privilege of serving as an Assistant Principal at Red Land High School for many years. I am excited to bring my experience, passion, and student-centered approach to the Newberry community. As we embark upon the remainder of this school year together, I want to emphasize my unwavering commitment to ensuring that every student who walks through our doors feels supported, challenged, and empowered to achieve success.

At Newberry Elementary School, we believe that academic growth and social-emotional development go hand in hand. I am deeply committed to fostering an environment where students are inspired to take risks, develop confidence, and cultivate a love of learning. This work is only possible when we collaborate closely with families and the community, and I look forward to building strong, positive relationships with each of you.

Your partnership is essential. Whether through open communication, shared problem-solving, or celebrating your child’s achievements, I am here to work alongside you every step of the way. Together, we can create meaningful learning experiences and ensure that every student thrives.

Thank you for welcoming me into the Newberry community. I look forward to connecting with all families and if you would like please use the email below to schedule a meeting to further discuss your child and Newberry. I am excited for the year ahead and grateful for the opportunity to support our students’ success. As always, I am only an email or phone call away.

Your Partner in Learning,

Mrs. McGowan

smcgowan@wssd.k12.pa.us

717-938-2111

October 5: Fire Prevention Assembly K-2:

Students will have the opportunity to meet our Local Firefighters and will listen to a presentation. After the presentation students will explore the fire trucks.

October 9: Remote Learning Day:

On Scheduled Remote Learning Days, teachers will provide Choice Board activities for students to complete independently. The work will be due the following Tuesday, October 13. All students will be marked present, unless reported as absent by their parent or guardian.

October 12: No School for Students and Staff:

Students will return to in-person learning on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.

October 21: West Shore Unity Day:

Unity Day was started by PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center and provides us with an opportunity to stand united against bullying and in support of kindness, acceptance, and inclusion. On Wednesday, October 21, all West Shore students, staff and community members are invited to wear the color orange.

October 22: Bobcat Bash:

Students will be attending the Bobcat Bash assembly to celebrate and recognize those who demonstrated Responsibility. We are excited to highlight students that exemplify our traits monthly and to create a culture of positive peer interactions as well as kindness throughout the year. The students and staff make Newberry an amazing community where all can learn and grow.

October 28: Fun Run:

Students will be walking/running throughout the day and are encouraged to wear white or neon so their glow sticks can shine brightly! This is a fundraiser for the PTO.

October 29: Harvest Party & 2nd Grade Pumpkin Carving:

Harvest Classroom Parties Volunteers are coordinated through the classrooms and will focus on celebrating the harvest. Students will be doing crafts, participating in games, and will have snacks available.

October 30: Parent Conferences, No School For Students:

Parent Conferences will be held October 30th. Please watch for communication via SeeSaw to sign up for conferences with your student's teacher. Students will return to in-person learning on Monday, November 2.

The month of October we will be focusing on giving as well as receiving specific and intentional feedback. Students will have the opportunity to complete Scary Good Staff cards pointing out something amazing a staff member has done. Staff will have the opportunity to complete Scary Good Student cards giving specific and intentional feedback. Please watch for the cards after the first two weeks of October!

SCHOOL COUNSELING LESSONS

Each month, I teach classroom lessons in each homeroom. We focus on positive social-emotional skills. Here is a summary of each topic covered last month.

Newberry has a Student Assistance Program or SAP team. The SAP team is a group of trained professionals from the school and local community agencies that offer assistance to students who need support for many different reasons. The goal of the SAP team is to help remove any barriers to learning that students may be experiencing. The SAP team will help you find services and assistance within the school, and if needed, in the community. We will provide you with information, and then you make the choices that best fit your needs and wishes. If you would like to learn more about our SAP team or think that your child may benefit, please contact Mrs. Ferree.

If any student is in need of additional food for the weekend, or in need of specific items, such as sneakers, coats, book bags, etc., please reach out to Mrs. Ferree via Seesaw or phone call at any time.

As the holiday season approaches, there are several local churches and community groups who help to provide gifts for students in need. If you think your family is in need of this type of support, please contact Mrs. Ferree by October 30th.

At Newberry, we believe in using data to inform our instructional practices to target areas of continued growth for every learner. Throughout September, students engaged in Acadience testing, which we were excited about the results. We are using this information to inform learner groupings, differentiate instruction and ensure all students are receiving the supports they need. In October we will be starting Math WIN for First and Second grades. Math WIN “What I Need”, will focus on student needs for acceleration or remediation, and is new to the Newberry schedule this year. This is an exciting opportunity to focus on continual growth for all regardless of their level.

Assessment Summary:

All Learners: Acadience Reading assessment

All Learners: Acadience Mathematics assessment

Kindergarten: Kindergarten Acceleration Program (KAP) screener

Grades 1-2: Kickstart Mathematics

Grades 3-4: Reflex Mathematics

Grades 3-4: Exact Path Diagnostic and Firefly

The quick assessments will allow us to quickly monitor progress and make instructional pivots to ensure learners needs are being met. Thank you for your support in this initiative so we can continue to grow all Newberry learners through a growth mindset!

We welcome you into the Bobcat Community and are always seeking individuals to volunteer in an array of capacities.

• Volunteer Clearance Policy & Procedures - Adults wishing to volunteer in our schools are required to complete the Volunteer Application Process before being approved to do so.

We are excited to continue to invite you to become an active part of the Newberry Elementary School PTO! The PTO plays a vital role in supporting our students, teachers, and school community through events, fundraising, and volunteer opportunities.

Your participation; whether it’s attending meetings, helping with school events, or sharing your ideas; makes a meaningful difference in the experiences and opportunities available to our students. Joining the PTO is also a wonderful way to connect with other families, collaborate with staff, and stay informed about all that is happening at Fairview.

We encourage all to be involved as we embark upon this journey to excellence. Your time, talents, and support help us create a stronger, more vibrant school community for every learner.

Newberry is off to a great start for the 2026-2027 school year! The PTO has been busy planning so many events and fundraisers and could use your help! If you have any thoughts, ideas, or questions, please reach out to us (nbPTO17319@gmail.com) or join us at our next meeting (Library - November 10 @ 6:00). Follow our Facebook page for important information, updates and upcoming events: Newberry Elementary PTO - Etters, PA.

• Annual Notices - Numerous federal laws require school districts to provide students, parents, and/or the public with notices.

• Care Solace - Care Solace assists individuals find mental health care providers and substance use treatment centers. Their services may be accessed by students, staff and their families at no cost to you, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, 365 days per year, and in 200+ languages. To utilize Care Solace, call 1-888-515-0595 or visit www.caresolace.com/westshore.

• Employment Opportunities - We have a variety of open positions perfect for parents, grandparents, and other caregivers interested in working a schedule similar to our students.
• Transportation Exception Request - May be used to request a bus stop different from the assigned stop associated with the child’s residence provided the alternative stop is in the same school attendance area as the child’s school.
  
• Free and Reduced Price Meal Application Information - Families who may qualify are encouraged to apply for free or low cost meals this school year.
  
• Electronic Absence Submission - If your child will not be in school for the day due to illness or doctor/dentist appointment, you can submit their absence electronically through PowerSchool.
• Technology Help Center - Contains videos, resources, FAQs, and guides on using Seesaw, Schoology, PowerSchool, iPads, Chromebooks, and more.
  

• Damage, Loss, Theft of District Technology Devices and Chargers - Information related to device expectations and repair costs.