On Your Mark: A Journey Through Great Falls ES

Dev

[Intro Music] Welcome back, everyone, to another exciting episode of the 'On Your Mark' podcast! I'm Dev, and we're here to keep you updated on all the latest happenings at Great Falls Elementary School. Today, we've got a packed agenda, so get ready to dive in!

Sara

Hey everyone, it's Sara here! We've got a lot to cover, from important updates to fun events. Before we get started, a big thank you to our amazing staff. Winter is flying by, and we're almost at Spring Break! Your dedication to our students and each other is truly inspiring.

Dev

Absolutely, Sara. Let's kick things off with the SR&R Mid-Year Review. We need to ensure that all students complete their lessons by March 7. For K-5, the focus is on safe choices at recess—managing peer conflicts, using safe hands and words. For 5-6, it’s about digital citizenship and responsible technology use.

Sara

That's right, Dev. And for the 6th graders, we're also emphasizing how to handle rumors and support peers. Emma, Jen, and I will be assisting with these lessons, so please let us know a good time to stop by. Morning meetings are a great time to fit this in, too.

Dev

Great point, Sara. Moving on, we have a Lockdown Drill scheduled for February 27 at 2:00 PM. It's crucial to review the procedures with your students beforehand. Families will be notified 24 hours in advance, and we have all the resources you need in the newsletter.

Sara

Absolutely, safety is a top priority. Now, let's talk about the upcoming events. We have a lot to look forward to! Starting with Bus Driver Appreciation Week from February 24 to 28. It's a wonderful opportunity to show our gratitude to the hardworking bus drivers who keep our students safe every day.

Dev

That's so true, Sara. Here’s how your class can get involved: K-2 students can make thank-you cards or drawings, 3-4 can write appreciation notes or create a class poem, and 5-6 can make a 'Thank You' banner or record a short video message. A little appreciation goes a long way!

Sara

Absolutely! And speaking of events, we have the Doug Kammerer Assembly on February 27 at 12:45 PM. A few reminders: please wait for grade-level dismissal announcements before heading to the gym, and do not pass through the cafeteria. 4th grade, since this overlaps with recess, you can drop belongings off early or join after recess.

Dev

Thanks, Sara. We're also excited to celebrate Read Across America Week from March 3 to 7. We'll have spirit days and fun activities in the library. Take some time for choice reading in your classrooms and encourage your students to participate. Reading is such a fundamental skill, and this week is all about fostering a love for books.

Sara

Absolutely, Dev. Now, let's talk about School Families & Early Release on February 24. Starting at 9:05 AM, students will begin transitioning. Dismissal will start at 9:55 AM, so be in the hallway to monitor and assist students. Recess duty is also important—Amy Keefer, Jen Roberts, Elza Botha, and Taleah Mizell from 10 to 11 AM, and Allie Boucher, John Boucher, Justin Kantor, and Ashley Forrest from 11 to 12 PM.

Dev

Thanks for those details, Sara. For the afternoon plan: K-2 students will gather in the gym, take attendance, and start rotations after an optional free snack. 3-6 students will be sent to the gym at 12:30 PM for attendance and snacks before beginning rotations. Check the Early Release Plan linked in the newsletter for full details.

Sara

Great, Dev. Moving on to county-based information and opportunities. The Elementary Language Arts Team is hosting monthly collaborative corners for grades 1-6. This is a fantastic opportunity for teachers across the division to collaborate and discuss Benchmark Advance implementation. February's focus is on writing, and March will be on phonics and word study. Register for a session and share your ideas with fellow educators!

Dev

That's a fantastic opportunity, Sara. Now, let's highlight some of the amazing things happening at our school. A huge shoutout to Diane and Allison for brightening our spaces with beautiful flowers. Small acts of kindness really make a big impact, and we are so grateful.

Sara

Absolutely, Dev. We also want to remind everyone about our Student and Staff Shoutouts. Catch a student being Mindful, Accountable, Responsible, or Kind? Submit a student shoutout, and we’ll send a certificate home! Want to recognize an amazing colleague? Fill out a staff shoutout, and they’ll get a certificate in their mailbox.

Dev

Thanks, Sara. Before we wrap up, a few last things. First, the SEL Screening window runs from March 10 to 28. Please plan to administer the screener between March 10 and 21, with makeups happening the following week. If you need small group administration, let us know by March 3. And we’ve revised the SOL Testing Calendar based on your feedback, so feel free to reach out if you have any questions.

Sara

That’s all for now! Thank you for your hard work and dedication. We are getting closer to Spring Break—keep up the great work, and we’ll see you next time!

Dev

[Outro Music] Thanks for tuning in, everyone. Stay safe, stay engaged, and we’ll catch you on the next episode of 'On Your Mark'!