EC February Newsletter

Dear Families,

February is here, and winter has certainly made itself known! With the colder temperatures, we’ve been spending more time indoors, but that hasn’t stopped us from staying active and having fun. Our students have been finding creative ways to move their bodies, build friendships, and enjoy learning through indoor games, movement activities, and hands-on experiences.

Even on chilly days, the energy and excitement around the building continue to shine. It’s been wonderful to see the children laughing, learning, and making the most of our time together despite the winter weather.

This month you will be receiving your student's first semester report card. We'll also be celebrating our 100th day of school and Friendship Day. Also, this month with the hopes of more families joining us, our FAB meeting will be an evening, virtual meeting. You'll see more information in this newsletter's FAB Corner.

As a reminder, February Vacation will take place from Monday, February 16th through Friday, February 20th. School will be closed. We hope this break provides your families with time to relax, recharge, and enjoy time together.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support and partnership. We look forward to all the great moments still to come this winter!

Warmly,
MaryFrances Tintle
Director

2/2: Early Release; 1:30pm dismissal

2/10: Virtual Pre-K information session; 5:30-6:30pm

2/11: Early Release; 1:30 dismissal

2/12: 100th Day of School- Spirit Day

2/13: Semester One Report Cards go home

2/13: Busy Bee Assembly 2:00-2:30pm

2/13: Friendship Day- Spirit Day

2/16-2/20: School Closed for February Break

2/23: Return to School

2/25: Early Release; 1:30 dismissal

2/27: Non-Dress Code Day

Last fall, our Early Childhood students explored what animals need to thrive in their habitats and how natural elements such as wind and water shape the land around us. This season, Kindergarten students will explore the concept of construction as they see themselves as “makers,” designing and building structures while identifying what makes them strong and beautiful. First graders will learn about how people use resources like goods and services to shape and support their community. Second graders will read and write about how people and places shape one another through stories, music and art. Our Pre-K students will engage in interest-based thematic units including the effects of winter, the unique structures of birds, and the animal habitats around the world.

The Family Advisory Board (FAB) is a collaborative group of parents and caregivers who partner with school leadership to strengthen our campus community. FAB provides a space for families to share feedback, exchange ideas, and support initiatives that enhance the educational experience for all students.

Through regular meetings and family-led efforts, FAB helps foster open communication between families and the school, builds community connections, and supports our dedicated teachers, staff, faculty, and administrators. The meetings and its topics are driven by EC campus families, and all EC Campus families are welcome to participate—whether by attending meetings, volunteering, or contributing in ways that fit their time and interest

EC FAB has shifted from our previous in person meeting day and time to accommodate our families busy schedules! Our EC Campus FAB meetings will now take place every third Wednesday of the month, held virtually at 6:30 PM ET.

These meetings are a great opportunity to:

• Share feedback and ideas

• Learn about campus updates and initiatives

• Collaborate with other families and school leadership

We look forward to seeing all of our families virtually on February 18th at 6:30 PM.

Meeting Link: https://meet.google.com/rcy-kmxw-ovc

*If you need translation during the meeting, please email EC FAB Chair April Love (alove50295@gmail.com) at least two days before the meeting.

Would you like to connect with other FAB families across all the PHA Campuses?

Parent & Family Weekly Wednesday Zoom meetings are back! These virtual gatherings provide a welcoming space for families to connect, share, and help strengthen our PHA community. We invite you to join us on Wednesdays at 5:30 PM on Zoom as we continue building meaningful connections together.

Meeting Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83580160175?pwd=eKzYeDhnot0XelMODQ3luqJttKubMp.1

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Family Volunteer Opportunities

Family involvement plays a powerful role in strengthening our school community and supporting student success. Whether you have a little time or a lot, there are many meaningful ways to engage beyond attending FAB meetings. Getting involved helps build connections with other families, supports our educators, and shows our children the value of community partnership.

Current ways to get involved:

• Classroom Parent
  Interested in serving as a classroom parent? This role helps support communication, coordination, and community-building within your child’s classroom.
  To sign up and start the next steps, please fill out this form:
  
  

• Staff & Educator Appreciation, Teacher Lounge Snacks
  We love showing appreciation for our incredible teachers, staff, faculty, and school support teams who care for our children every day. FAB is One easy way to help is by donating snacks for the teacher lounge.
  Suggested snack items:
  
  

• Cheez-Its

• Popcorn

• Drink Mix

• Milk chocolate

• Granola bars
  
  

• Drop-off instructions:
  Please label your snack donation for “teachers lounge snacks” and drop off at the EC Campus front office with Ms. Cathy.

• School Uniform Collection

• We are seeking donations of gently used school uniforms to support PHA families throughout the year. If your child has outgrown uniforms that are clean and in good condition, please consider donating them to help another student in our community.

• Interested in donating?

• Please drop off at the front office.
  

Please stay on the lookout for more FAB opportunities throughout the year as we continue to build community, support our school, and partner with families in meaningful ways.

Questions or Concerns: Contact EC FAB Chair, April Love (alove50295@gmail.com)

As winter weather continues, we want to partner with families to help keep all students safe during cold and snowy days. Please review the reminders below as you prepare your child for school:

🧤 Dress for the Weather
Please be sure your student comes to school dressed appropriately for cold temperatures. This includes:

• Warm winter coat

• Hat

• Mittens or gloves

• Boots

• Snow pants

Being properly dressed helps students stay warm and comfortable, especially during arrival, dismissal, and outdoor activities.

🎿 Travel Safely to School
Whether walking or driving your child to school, please take extra care during winter conditions:

• Stay aware of your surroundings

• Pay close attention to traffic

• Use crosswalks whenever possible so you remain visible among snowbanks

Thank you for your continued support in helping keep our school community safe during the winter months. Stay warm and safe!