Home

Parent Newsletters #1 #2 #3 #4 #5 #6 #9 #10 #11 #12 #13

PARENT NEWSLETTER NO. 1

August 1, 2007
Dear Parents and Students:

Welcome to John H. Russell Elementary School and to the 2007-08 School Year. The Russell Elementary School staff looks forward to meeting and getting to know you. Many activities are being planned and I would like to provide you with important dates as we begin school year 2007-2008. Please mark the dates and times on your calendar for future reference.

Mark your calendar:
• Tuesday, August 21: Open House (K through 3rd Grade) from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
• Wednesday, August 22: Kindergarten through 3rd Grade Students' first day of school
• August 22-28: Kindergarten Screening - 1 p.m. early release for Kindergarten students (Kindergarten Screening in the afternoons)
• Wednesday, August 23: Swimming Program begins (2nd and 3rd Grade)
• August 22-28: PreK class visits (will be arranged with the teachers)
• Friday, August 24: 1st Assembly (0900)
• Wednesday, August 29: PreK students' first day of school
• Wednesday, August 29: First full day for Kindergarten
• Wednesday, August 29: Parent Orientation for grade 1-3 (6:30 p.m.)
• Friday, August 31: Swimming Program ends (2nd and 3rd Grade)
• Monday, September 3: Labor Day - No School
• Sunday, September 9: National Grandparents Day
• Thursday, September 13: Parent Orientation - Grades PreK and Kindergarten at 6:30 p.m.

Dr. Jeter Named DDESS Deputy Director: Dr. Jeter, currently the DDESS New York/Virginia/Puerto Rico and DoDDS-Cuba District Superintendent, has accepted the position of DDESS Deputy Director. Dr. Jeter will take on his new responsibilities October 3. The attached announcement comes with mixed emotion on many levels. We certainly wish Dr. Jeter the best in his new position, but he will truly be missed in Quantico. Please join me in sending your congratulations.

RES Volunteer of the Year: Please join me in congratulating Sonja Schrock as the 2007 The Russell Elementary School Volunteer of the Year. Mrs. Schrock, for two years, has been eager to serve on the PEA Board. During the 2006-2007 School Year, when the office of President was vacated, she quickly stepped right up and tackled the tasks at hand. For two years she has participated and planned the Basket Bingo evening event and has also been actively involved in the Fall Festival, Spring Fling and the Book Fairs. This year she participated in the organization of a very successful Craft Fair. Mrs. Schrock was a key player in updating the PEA bylaws for Russell Elementary School. She is a great communicator with the families and staff members to keep all stakeholders informed of future events. As far as contributions to the whole school and community, Sonja Schrock is outstanding. In addition to being the president of the PEA, she is an incredible volunteer throughout the school year.

QUANTICO SCHOOLS CAFETERIA LUNCH PRICES

BREAKFAST: $1.25, REDUCED BREAKFAST: $.30, LUNCH (K-3): $2.25, LUNCH (4-5): $2.35, LUNCH (6-12): $2.50, REDUCED LUNCH: $.40, Free meals available from USDA. Contact the school office for details.

20 DAY TICKETS:
LUNCH (K-3) $45.00
LUNCH (4-5) $47.00
LUNCH (6-12) $50.00
BREAKFAST $25.00
REDUCED BREAKFAST $6.00
REDUCED LUNCH $8.00
10 DAY TICKETS AVAILABLE FOR LUNCHES

Parents are encouraged to buy a lunch ticket as soon as possible. We offer hot lunches and the meals are prepared by an excellent cafeteria staff. I encourage you to take advantage. Try it, you'll like it! Our Cafeteria Manager will be available Tuesday, August 21, during the Open House from 2:00 - 3:00 so that you may purchase lunch/breakfast tickets or ask questions about lunch/breakfast. The Quantico Schools Cafeteria Menus for August 22 – September 28, 2007 are attached.

NO “ROLLER-SHOES”: Accidents from trendy “roller-shoes” contribute to many visits to the emergency room each year, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. In order to maintain a safe environment at Russell Elementary School “roller-shoes” are not allowed at school. Please be aware of this RES requirement as you buy clothes for next year. They are dangerous, and I appreciate your attention to this item.

COMMUNICATION: In an effort to insure that parents receive timely information from our school, we will begin sending many newsletters and notices via email. Since not all families are online, we will continue to send hard copies home as well.

THURSDAY “RED” FOLDERS: Russell School is designating Thursday as the day to send home compiled newsletters and notices. We will have special "Thursday Red Folders" going home with each child. We will be asking parents to sign and return the red folders. This is an effort to organize our communication with the home and hopefully make it more effective. More details will follow.

PARKING:
Visitors, volunteers and parents are to park in the school parking lot. The parking lot on the other side of Purvis Road is only to be used for overflow parking during special events such as Open House or Parent Orientation.

BUS ZONE:
The road area immediately in front of Russell is designated for buses only! Should you choose to bring your child to school, please use the school parking lot and walk your child into the school. Cars parked in the bus zone will be ticketed.

Thomason Park: We have many new families from Thomason Park. Parents have indicated that they will walk their children to school and walk their children home. Russell Elementary School supports this! It is a great way to get exercise. All student walkers are to be escorted by their parents. Always use the crosswalk at the corner of Purvis Road and Courtney Drive. If you are coming from Quantico Middle/High School use the crosswalk at the corner of the entry road to Quantico Middle High School and Purvis Road.

SWIMMING INSTRUCTION:
Each school year second and third grade RES students are bused to the Base Pool for swim instructions. This program runs from August 23 through August 31. Complete information and permission slips will be given out at our Open House on Tuesday, August 21. Parent volunteers and good weather are essential to the success of our Swim Program. If you are interested in volunteering be sure to sign up at the Open House.

OPEN HOUSE: We would like to invite all students and parents (grades K - 3) to Russell's Open House on Tuesday, August 21, from 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. This is a wonderful opportunity for the children to meet their teacher, see their room, and meet some of the other students who will be in their class. We hope that you are able to attend. Class assignments will be posted at the front entrance and in the halls. Personnel will be available to assist you in getting to the proper class. Transportation is not provided for this day.

PreK: The PreK teachers will call PreK parents to make an appointment for you to visit the teacher at school from August 22-28. Pre-K will begin class on Wednesday, August 29. The PreK a.m. session is from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m. and the PreK p.m. session is from 12:30 to 3:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

GRADES K-3 SCHOOL DAY: School officially begins for grades K-3 on August 22, 2006. It is a full day for 1st – 3rd grade. Kindergarten students will be released at 1 p.m. August 22 thru August 28 for Kindergarten screening each afternoon. Please check the Sentry for the bus schedules. If you bring your child, do not arrive before 8:25 a.m., as there will be no one available to supervise. Kindergarten through third grade will remain in school from 8:30 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.

IMPORTANT Announcement for PARENTS - AFTER SCHOOL DESTINATION FORM: This form must be completed and returned to your child's teacher. It will be available at the Open House. Additional forms may be obtained in the office if needed. If a permanent change needs to be made, a new AFTER SCHOOL DESTINATION FORM must be filled out.

**Any short term change in the destination of your child after school that would involve NOT taking his/her usual bus (i.e., pick up by parent, friend, going to Day Care, going to Brownies, etc.) must be sent to the child's teacher in writing. Otherwise, the child will ride the bus that is indicated on his/her form. This policy is for the safety of your children.

PARENT ORIENTATION: Orientation night for Parents of Russell Elementary students will be held on two evenings this year:
• Wednesday, August 29: Parent Orientation – Grades 1-3 at 6:30 p.m.
• Thursday, September 13: Parent Orientation - Grades PreK and Kindergarten at 6:30 p.m.
These are evenings set aside to give parents information about school procedures and their child's class. We look forward to seeing you there.

SUPPLY LISTS: You should have received a supply list during the last week of school or at the time of registration. However, if you would like another copy, please feel free to stop by the school and pick one up. They are available in the main office.

Again, welcome to the NY/VA Domestic Dependents Elementary and Secondary Schools (DDESS) and to John H. Russell Elementary School. If you have any questions, please call the school at (703) 221-4161. Thank you so much for your continued support at RES. I look forward to another outstanding school year!

Back to top

Parent NewsLetter #2
September 13, 2007

Mark your calendar:
Thursday, September 13: Parent Orientation - Grades PreK and Kindergarten (6:30 p.m.)
Friday, September 14: Club Assembly for 2nd and 3rd Grades (0900)
Friday, October 5: Assembly
October 8-12: Fire Prevention Week
Monday, October 8: Columbus Day - No School
Wednesday, October 10: "Reptiles Alive" (PEA sponsored program) from 9:00 to 9:30 for the general program and through 10:30 for the smaller group "encounters"
Thursday, October 11 : Individual fall pictures
October 23-31: Red Ribbon Week
Friday, October 26: End of Grading Period (46 days)
Monday, October 29: Teacher Work Day - No school for students
Wednesday, October 31: Fall Hike
Oct 29 - Nov 2: The RES Book Fair

Dear Parents and Students:
The opening of school has gone exceptionally well. Thank you for your support and cooperation. The students have taken to the routine and have adjusted very nicely to the schedule. We look forward to a very successful year and to working with all.

SCHOOL HOURS: K-3: 8:30 am – 2:50 pm, Pre-K: AM: 8:30-11:00 am, PM 12:30-3:00 pm
School opens for the students at 8:25 a.m. Parents who walk or drive students to school should arrive at school no earlier than 8:25 a.m. If you arrive earlier, please stay with your child until 8:20.

News From The Nurse
The school year is off to a great start. Just a few reminders for you…
Please remember to have an adult bring medications to school.
Students are not permitted to carry medications for any reason.
Time is winding down to get immunizations complete.
If your child has an appt. already scheduled please call me.
I would love to note this and avoid extra reminder calls.
Vision and Hearing screening will begin in a few weeks.
If you don’t receive a referral letter, your child passed the screenings.
Please feel free to call me at any time!

Your School Nurse at Russell Elementary School, 703-221-4161

Bus Stops/Motor Transportation
The beginning of this year was extremely smooth thanks to everyone’s cooperation and support. Stops are set by Motor Transportation and are based on information given to them from the school. Motor T provides transportation and, along with Russell Elementary School employees, maintains the safety of all students. Please talk with your children about their behavior at the stops and on the bus. If children cannot behave on the buses, they may lose their privileges of riding. The Motor T Bus rules for all Quantico schools are below:

TRANSPORTATION RULES AND REGULATIONS
A. The Quantico Dependents School System may provide transportation for pupils, but is not required to do so.
B. It is the desire of our school system that students ride the buses to and from school in safety and comfort. In order to make this possible, we expect students to act in accordance with the attached rules and regulations.
C. It is essential that the home and the school system work together in this program.
D. These regulations govern the students while they are riding the bus. The school assumes no responsibility for the conduct of the children while walking to school or for those waiting at the bus stops.

• Be at the bus stop on time.
• Keep head and arms inside bus.
• Refrain from eating while on the bus.
• Keep feet out of aisle.
• Board bus only at designated stops.
• Remain seated until the bus stops.
• Cross the street in front of the bus.
• Commit no disturbances, such as spitting, chewing gum, swinging on bars, yelling, pushing, annoying others, or disturbing driver or students in any other way.
• Use no profanity.
• Refrain from throwing items on the floor of the bus or out of the windows.
• Refrain from placing books, lunches, or other articles where other passengers may stumble over them.
• Refrain from smoking on the bus.
• Cooperate with all requests of the bus driver.
• Maintain a complete silence whenever overhead lights are on.
• Ride only on bus to which you have been assigned. Transportation for students who do not regularly ride the bus can be provided for after-school activities such as scouts, riding classes, religious instruction, etc., from the school when space is available. Written requests will be required.
• All students are required to ride their regular bus unless there is a written parental request.

*IMPORTANT: PARENTS - AFTER SCHOOL DESTINATION OF YOUR CHILD: This form was included with the handouts at Open House on August 21. It was to be completed and returned to your child's teacher at the Open House or on the first day of school. If you did not complete it at the beginning of school please complete/update it as soon as possible, and please keep it updated throughout the year.

Reminder: Bus Drivers cannot honor a student request to be dropped at a different stop because of safety considerations. The child will ride the bus that is indicated on his/her form. This policy is for the safety of your children.

EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS: Please ensure that all emergency contact numbers (home phone, work phone, cell phone, two local emergency contacts) are updated for the school.

NOTE: Pre-Kinder parents are expected to receive students at the bus stops. If parents are not there, students are brought back to the school, phone calls are made and personnel remain at school in order to ensure the safety of students. Please ensure that students are picked up. Make sure you provide all contact information to teachers and the Russell main office in case of emergency. Pre-K WILL NOT be accepting bus stop changes—unless it is a permanent change in destination for the remainder of the school year.

Visits to the classroom
Visits to the classroom are encouraged. Please call ahead and let the teacher know you would like to visit. Don’t be surprised if the teacher asks you to help. We are always looking for volunteers at Russell, and would love to have you! If you are a visitor/volunteer in the building you must sign in at the main office and receive a visitor/volunteer sticker/badge. Please do not go to the classroom without the teacher’s knowledge or without arrangements having been made prior to the visit.

THE CAFETERIA CORNER
FREE AND REDUCED LUNCH PROGRAMS
WHO ARE THEY FOR, AND HOW DOES PARTICIPATION ACTUALLY HELP THE CAFETERIA KEEP COSTS DOWN?

The free and reduced lunch program was developed to help families with the high cost of lunch. It is not a welfare program and no one should feel like it is. It is a benefit to you, if you qualify, and should be taken advantage of by you. All information is kept strictly confidential and every child’s lunch ticket looks the same.

Everyone, whether you were on free and reduced last year or not, must re-apply this year. If you were on free and reduced last year, you are automatically approved for the first two weeks of school. If you do not re-apply after the first two weeks of school, you will be changed to regular priced meals. Applications are available in each school’s office. We suggest you pick up a copy early to avoid the rush and send to the address below or bring it in personally.

If you do qualify for free or reduced breakfast and lunch your cost is less, or free, because USDA picks up the rest of the cost and sends it to our cafeteria every month. What a bargain! Reduced lunch prices are just $6.00 for breakfast and $8.00 for lunch for a 20 day ticket instead of $25.00 for breakfast and $45.00 to $50.00 for lunch for a 20 day ticket.

Child Nutrition Program Director, 3308 John Quick Rd Suite 200A, Quantico, VA 22134, (703) 640-9431. The Child Nutrition Program office is on the 2nd floor of Burrows Elementary School.

QUANTICO SCHOOLS CAFETERIA LUNCH PRICES
BREAKFAST: $1.25, REDUCED BREAKFAST: $.30, LUNCH (K-3): $2.25, LUNCH (4-5): $2.35, LUNCH (6-12): $2.50, REDUCED LUNCH: $.40, Free meals available from USDA. Contact the school office for details.
20 DAY TICKETS:
LUNCH (K-3) $45.00
LUNCH (4-5) $47.00
LUNCH (6-12) $50.00
BREAKFAST $25.00
REDUCED BREAKFAST $6.00
REDUCED LUNCH $8.00
10 DAY TICKETS AVAILABLE FOR LUNCHES

Parents are encouraged to buy a lunch ticket as soon as possible. We offer hot lunches and the meals are prepared by an excellent cafeteria staff. I encourage you to take advantage. Try it, you'll like it! Our Cafeteria Manager is Mrs. Patty Grogg. She is always available during the morning and through lunch so that you may purchase lunch/breakfast tickets or ask questions about lunch/breakfast.

PARKING:
Visitors, volunteers and parents are to park in the school parking lot. The parking lot on the other side of Purvis Road from the school is to be used for overflow parking and during special events such as Open House and/or Parent Orientation.

Children need to wear tennis shoes to PE classes. Tennis shoes are safe and provide the foot with stability. Flip flops are not safe for active play. We go outside everyday for lunch recess and tennis shoes allows the children to play actively and safely. There have been reports recently on Channel 4 and in the Washington Post concerning the wearing of flip flops, crocks and heels. The first two can lead to plantar fascitis and heels to a shortening of the Achilles tendon. Please remind your children to wear tennis shoes to school. Thank you.

BUS ZONE:
The road area immediately in front of Russell is designated for buses only! Should you choose to bring your child to school, please use the parking lot at the end of the building and walk your child into the school. Cars parked in the bus zone will be ticketed.

Thomason Park: We have many families from Thomason Park. Parents walk their children to school and walk their children home. Russell Elementary School supports this! It is a great way to get exercise. All walkers are to be escorted by their parents. Always use the crosswalks.

Again, welcome to the DDESS NY/VA/PR/DoDDS Cuba School District and to John H. Russell Elementary School. If you have any questions, please contact the school at 703-221-4161. Thank you so much for your continued support at RES.

Back to top

October 4, 2007

John H. Russell Elementary School Mission Statement: Our school community provides quality opportunities and experiences that inspire the children of our military families to become creative problem solvers, life-long learners, and productive members of a diverse technological world.

Mark your calendar:
• Friday, October 5: Assembly
• October 8-12: Fire Prevention Week
• Monday, October 8: Columbus Day - No School
• Wednesday, October 10: "Reptiles Alive" (PEA sponsored program) from 9:00 to 9:30 for the general program and then continues until 11 a.m. with smaller group "encounters"
• Thursday, October 11 : Individual fall pictures
• October 23-31: Red Ribbon Week
• Friday, October 26: End of Grading Period (46 days)
• Monday, October 29: Teacher Work Day - No school for students
• Wednesday, October 31: Fall Hike
• Oct 29 - Nov 2: The RES Book Fair
• November 5-8: Parent/Teacher Conferences for K-3. Early Release days for K-3, and students will be dismissed at 1:00 p.m. each day. PM Pre-K classes WILL be in session.
• Monday, November 12: Veterans Day – No School
• Thursday, November 15: Retakes

Red Ribbon Week
October 23-31, 2007
Red Ribbon Week focuses on educating students about healthy choices, especially the choice to avoid drugs. The need for drug prevention efforts never diminishes. Each year there are millions of new students just starting their journey through school who have not yet heard the anti-drug messages expressed during Red Ribbon Week.

Dear Parents,
We have seen a few cases of fever and sore throat in our students. Some have been diagnosed with Strep throat. Our fever policy requires students to be sent home with a fever >100.0F and stay home until the fever is gone for 24 hours (without Tylenol or Motrin). This policy is in place to ensure your child is well before returning to school.
According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the single most important thing we can do to keep from getting sick and spreading illness to others is to clean our hands. One of the most common way people catch colds is by rubbing their nose or eyes after touching someone or something that is contaminated with the cold virus.
Please help your family stay healthy with these tips!
Clean your hands…
? After you use the bathroom
? Before you eat
? Before, during and after you prepare food
? When your hands are dirty
? After handling animals or animal waste
? More frequently when you or someone you live with is sick

How to clean your hands…
? Wet your hands and apply soap
? Rub hands together vigorously to make a lather
? Rub for 20 seconds
? Rinse under running water
? Dry hands with disposable towel or air dryer
? Turn off faucet with paper towel if possible
*If soap and water are not available – consider using alcohol based wipes or gel to clean hands

Your School Nurse

Arrival/Departure: The arrival time is 8:20-8:30 for students who are driven to school in private vehicles or who walk with their parents. There is no supervision prior to 8:20 AM. Breakfast is served from 8:20 to 8:45 each morning. Late arrivals require a tardy slip and must be signed in by a parent in the office. Early departures for appointments, etc. require children to be signed out by a parent as well.

Emergency Preparedness: We strongly urge parents to make prior emergency arrangements for their child to stay with a neighbor or prepare them as to what they should do in emergency circumstances, to include when there is an early closing of school.

UPDATE SCHOOL INFORMATION: It is imperative that your contact information be kept current with the front office. Should there be a change during the school year, please let us know. You are encouraged to stop or call the school to verify the accuracy of existing information.

PARENT EDUCATORS ASSOCIATION: New and returning parents are welcome to join and participate in the Parent Educators Association at Russell.

HELP REQUESTED - ABSENCES: Parents are asked to call the school by 10:00 a.m. on the day their child is absent. We will appreciate your assistance with this procedure for your child's safety. The school will attempt to call parents if we do not have an excuse for your child's absence that day. The office number is 703-221-4161.

Again, welcome to the NY/VA Domestic Dependents Elementary and Secondary Schools (DDESS) and to John H. Russell Elementary School. If you have any questions, please call the office at any time.

Principal

Back to top

PARENT NEWSLETTER NO. 4
October 26, 2007

Dear Parents,
As you know Parent/Teacher Conferences for grade K-3 will be here from November 5 through November 8. DoDEA just launched a new Public Service Announcement on the importance of attending Parent Conferences. It features Dr. Tafoya and will air on AFN worldwide and the Pentagon Channel between now and mid November. You can view the broadcast at the following website:

http://www.dodea.edu/pressroom/video.cfm

You can also find another PSA at this site that will air in the Pacific only featuring Dr Bresell.

Mark your calendar:

• Friday, October 26: End of Grading Period (46 days)
• Monday, October 29: Teacher Work Day - No school for students
• Tuesday, October 30: Science Night w/Pizza and Bake Sale
• Wednesday, October 31: Fall Hike
• October 29 – November 2: Red Ribbon Week
• October 29 - November 2: The RES Book Fair
• November 5 – 8: Parent/Teacher Conferences for K-3. Early Release days. K-3 students will be dismissed at 1:00 p.m. each day. PM Pre-K classes WILL be in session.
• Thursday, November 15: Retakes

DISMISSAL PLAN: Parents, please remember to notify your child’s teacher in writing of any changes to the routine dismissal plan. Phone calls to the office should only be used if there is an emergency. Confusion and last minute changes with dismissal plans may result in a student not arriving at a destination where an adult is waiting.
Youth Center Parents: In an effort to insure the safety of your children, please notify the Youth Center each time your child has a change of after school destination.

John H. Russell, Jr.: Below is a biography of John H. Russell, Jr., the person our school is named after.

JOHN H. RUSSELL, JR.

John H. Russell was the 16th Commandant of the Marine Corps, from March 1, 1934 to November 30, 1936.

He was born on November 14, 1872 at Mare Island, California. He was the son of a Rear Admiral in the Navy.

John Russell was a graduate of the Naval Academy in 1892. He spent two years as a Naval Cadet and then transferred to the Marine Corps. This was followed by a course at Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C., where he earned the reputation as a student of military arts. As a result of this reputation, he was assigned as a teacher of various schools.

During the Spanish-American War, he served aboard the USS MASSACHUSETTS in Commodore Schley’s “Flying Squadron.” He also served on the USS YOS MIT and USS OREGON.

John Russell married Miss Mable Howard of Washington, D.C. on June 12, 1901.

He saw duty in China, the Canal Zone, Mexico and most important, Haiti; the latter first as Commander of the 1st Brigade, then as High Commissioner, which is rare for a military person. Following nine years in Haiti, he was transferred to Quantico, Virginia, for the next two years. February, 1933 he was assistant to the Commandant in Washington, D.C. and on April 5, 1934 he became Commandant.

John Russell held the top Marine Corps job only two years, but great changes occurred during that time. He totally revised the schools and added more where the need called for such. Quantico became the center of the Marine Schools and there was a great addition of permanent buildings and facilities. Because of his great feeling for education, John Russell did much to establish a firm foundation for the Marine Corps.

He retired in December 1936, in Coronado, California, where he wrote a military column for a San Diego newspaper. He died on March 6, 1947.

DoDEA COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

The Community Strategic Plan (CSP) contains the strategic direction for the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) for the years 2006-2011. DoDEA provides education to eligible Department of Defense (DoD) military and civilian dependents from preschool through grade 12 with two distinct programs: the DoD Domestic Dependent Elementary and Secondary Schools (DDESS) for dependents at locations within the continental United States where DoD operates schools, and the DoD Dependents Schools (DoDDS) for dependents outside the continental United States. The DDESS system serves an estimated 25,500 students in 63 schools located in seven states, Guam, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. The DoDDS system serves approximately 65,500 students in 154 schools in 13 countries. Courses of study in DoDEA schools parallel those found in public schools in the United States. This plan provides the strategic direction for all DoDEA schools and offices, yet provides the flexibility to address unique issues and challenges that each program and each community must address.
The process used to develop this 5-year plan, along with the vision, mission, guiding principles, goals, outcomes, members, and glossary of terms, are contained in the following pages. The plan provides a road map for keeping DoDEA in the forefront in advancing the Department of Defense's agenda for education, and as a leader in the Nation for improving student performance and achievement.
VISION – Communities Committed to Success for ALL Students

MISSION – To Provide an Exemplary Education that Inspires and Prepares All DoDEA Students for Success in a Dynamic, Global Environment

GUIDING PRINCIPLES
• Success for All Students
• Trust and Respect for Others
• Uncompromising Advocacy for Students
• Development of Lifelong Learners
• Equal Access to Quality, Rigorous Education
• New and Motivating Challenges to Inspire Excellence
• Teaching with High Expectations
• Safe and Stable Learning Environment

GOAL 1: Highest Student Achievement:
All students will meet or exceed challenging standards in academic content so that they are prepared for continuous learning and productive citizenship.

Outcome A: Student Performance and Assessment
All students will achieve or exceed proficiency levels aligned to clearly defined program and curricular performance standards. Individual student progress will be continually measured using multiple local and system-wide performance-based assessments.

Outcome B: Opportunities to Learn and Citizenship
All students will have access to varied and challenging learning opportunities and appropriate interventions and/or modifications to meet the standards and foster lifelong learning and productive citizenship.

GOAL 2: Performance-Driven, Efficient Management Systems
DoDEA will use performance-driven management systems that operate in a timely, efficient, and equitable manner; place resource allocation and decision-making at the lowest operational level; and facilitate a safe environment conducive to optimum student achievement.

Outcome A: Efficient Management System of Facilities, Equipment, and Materials
All levels will participate in the development and implementation of an equitable plan to identify and schedule maintenance, life-cycle replacement, and upgrades to facilities, equipment, technology, and materials that support an environment conducive to learning.

Outcome B: Resource Allocation/Academic and Student Support Services
An annual budget plan will be designed and implemented at all levels in direct support of the CSP. All appropriate operational levels will have the resources, authority, and accountability to ensure equitable student access to programs and support services necessary to meet academic standards.

Outcome C: Secure and Safe Environment:
All DoDEA levels will have a safe, secure, and well-managed environment conducive to learning.

Goal 3: Motivated, High Performing, Diverse Workforce
The DoDEA workforce will be motivated, diverse, and committed to continuous professional growth and development resulting in exemplary performance and optimum student achievement.

Outcome A: Personnel Management Practices
In support of student achievement, administrators at all levels will continually recruit, hire, support, evaluate, and recognize personnel in order to retain a highly diverse, motivated, and committed workforce.
Outcome B: Continuous Professional Development and Training
Personnel at all levels will participate in ongoing professional development and training to support standards that enhance job performance.

Goal 4: Promoting Student Development through Partnerships and Communication
Every level of DoDEA will develop, promote, and maintain partnerships and communications to enhance student development.

Outcome A: Partnerships
All levels of the organization will develop, promote, and maintain partnerships to enhance social, emotional, and academic growth.
Outcome B: Communication
All schools, districts, areas, and headquarters will effectively communicate using a planned, systematic approach.

For more details, visit: http://www.dodea.edu/csp/

Thank you, parents, for your contributions and support! If you have any questions, please call the office at any time.
Principal

Back to top

November 15, 2007

Dear Parents,

The Parents' Page on the DoDEA website contains great resources for parents. Please go to:

http://www.am.dodea.edu/ddessasc/parentsstudents/parentlinks.html

The page is reviewed and updated monthly, and it has a wealth of information. Thank you for your support.

Mark your calendar:

• Friday, November 16: Thanksgiving Feast
• Wednesday, November 21 – Friday, November 23: Thanksgiving Break (no school)
• Friday, December 7: Monthly Assembly – 9 a.m.
• Wednesday, December 12: Reading Counts Store
• Thursday, December 13: Winter Program – 9 a.m. and 7 p.m.
• Saturday, December 22, 2007 through Sunday, January 6, 2008: Winter Break (no school)

ADULT COMPUTER CLASSES: Beginning Wednesday, November 28th Russell Elementary School will offer adult computer classes. The class scheduled from 9:00-10:00 will offer the basics of desk top publishing. From 10:00-11:00, we will focus on more advanced applications beginning with Microsoft Excel. Both classes will meet in the keyboarding lab (room #19). If you are interested in either or both of these classes, please send a note in with your student.

From the Media Center: I would like to thank the PEA and all their volunteers who helped make the Book Fair a success. Over $900 was made and this money will be used to purchase new books, Reading Counts quizzes, and other items for the Media Center.

AMERICAN EDUCATION WEEK: The 86th Annual American Education Week (AEW) will be observed from November 11-17, 2007. Many DoDEA schools will celebrate American Education Week along with other schools and educational organizations across the nation. Our schools take on an additional role and significance in our communities, often providing the stability, routine and focus for families affected by current global events, deployments and separations.

DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE: PARENTS – The following is the American Education Week 2007 message from DoDEA Director
From November 11-17, DoDEA will join school districts across the nation in celebrating American Education Week. This year's theme is, “Great Public Schools: A Basic Right and Our Responsibility.”

The theme is designed to remind people that great schools are the result of the commitment, dedication, and perseverance of educators, school staff, parents, students and communities. This week-long observance spotlights and pays tribute to many people of different backgrounds coming together in a unified effort and contributing their time and talent to build the best public schools. This celebration also reminds us of the responsibility we have to provide students with quality public schools so they can learn, grow, prosper, and achieve to their highest potential.

Learning involves people from many different specialties working together as a team. Education is not just about teachers and students and schools are not just buildings. Education is a dynamic process that involves people, ideas, and a desire to build a better future for everyone. The theme of American Education Week reflects the calling, challenge, and commitment we have to our students that will guarantee them a lifetime of endless possibilities.

Our schools take on an additional role and significance in our communities -- often providing the stability, routine and focus for families affected by current global events, deployments and separations. Our teachers and staff truly understand the challenges of military life and they are an integral part of the quality of life for military families all over the globe. Our schools recognize the importance and benefits of strong connections between home and school. The interaction between children, parents and teachers cannot be underplayed. If the partnership between teacher and parent is strong, the child’s chances of success multiply.

American Education Week helps draw public attention to the great work that happens in our schools daily. Across DoDEA, schools, PTAs, teacher associations, and community groups are planning a number of events and activities to emphasize this team effort. It is especially important for parents and other community members to come to the military community's schools, and more importantly, to come to their child's classroom, to see for themselves what teachers are doing to open minds and hearts to create lifelong learners.

I ask you to join me in celebrating this important week and I thank you to your untiring efforts and commitment to ensuring success for all our students.

COLD WEATHER: The cold weather is here. Please remember to send you children with warm clothes so they will be comfortable to go outside at recess each day. Please mark your child’s clothing items with the name. Clothes are brought to the main office during the winter and having the names on the clothing will make it easy to return to your child.

MOVING OR WITHDRAWAL: If you are moving or have orders to PCS in the future, please give Russell Elementary School at least one week’s notice. Teachers and the principal need time to update the child’s records before a copy of the records may be made available for parents to hand carry to the next school.

UPDATE SCHOOL INFORMATION: If you move at any time or changes occur, it is imperative that you update your address and telephone numbers as soon as possible with the school office.

Youth Center Parents: In an effort to insure the safety of your children, please notify the Youth Center each time your child has a change of after school destination.

Thank you, parents, for your contributions and support! If you have any questions, please call the office at any time.
Principal

Back to top

February 7, 2008

Welcome to the February edition of the John H. Russell Parent Newsletter!

February is:
National Black History Month
National Children’s Dental Health Month
American Heart Month

Mark your calendar:
• February 12, 2008: Valentine Family Night
• February 13: Work/Inservice Day (no school for students)
• February 18: President’s Day (Federal Holiday) – No School
• February 29: Final Jump Rope Assembly
• March 3: Read Across America Day
• March 14, 2008: Spring Fling

ATTACHMENTS:
• February 11 – March 21 Quantico Schools Cafeteria Menus
• Annual Asbestos Letter

Lunch recess: This is a reminder, we go outside for lunch recess every day and children need to dress appropriately for the weather. Our weather is so changeable it's probably best to dress in layers and wear hats and gloves when it's cold outside. Thank you for your assistance in this matter.

INCLEMENT WEATHER
Please ensure that your child is dressed appropriately for the weather conditions. Students need to be prepared for all kinds of weather this time of year, which include long sleeves, jackets, sweaters, coats, gloves/mittens, and something to cover the ears and head. We appreciate your support for the benefit of your children.
CLOSING OF VADDESS SCHOOLS DURING INCLEMENT WEATHER:
The inclement weather policy states that the duty officer will notify all local radio stations of school closings when it snows. In the event that the announcement of the closing of base schools is not broadcast prior to 7:15 am, a normal routine day will be in effect for all personnel. Radio stations and TV stations which announce closings are listed. For the weather code updates, stay tuned to Base TV Channel 49, or the radio and TV stations listed below, or call the MCB PAO hot line at (703) 784-3638:

TV CHANNELS: MCB 49, WRC-TV 4, WTTG-TV 5, WJLA-TV 7, NEWS CHANNEL 8, WUSA-TV CH 9

AM Radio Stations: WPWC 1480AM, WFLS 1350AM, WDCT 1310AM, WABS 780AM, FWFVA 1230AM, WFWC 1420AM, WPRW 1460AM, WPKX 730AM, WMAL 630AM, WROX 107AM, WTOP 1500AM, WWDC 101AM

FM RADIO STATIONS: WTEK 106.7FM, WCXR 105.9FM, WBQB 101.5FM, WAVA 105FM, WEZR 106.7FM, WXRA 106FM,

Circumstances where the closing of school may be necessary are: extreme heat within certain schools that are not air-conditioned, lack of electricity or fuel, breakdown of equipment, severe weather conditions, or national emergencies.

We strongly urge parents to make prior emergency arrangements for their child to stay with a neighbor or condition them as to what they should do in such a situation. If there is an early release of the students from school, RES staff members will call the designated phone tree parent with the up-dated information. The parent will then call remaining families within the specific class room.

Base Schools: The New York and Virginia Domestic Dependent Elementary and Secondary Schools (NY and VADDESS) are not a part of Prince William or Stafford County School Systems; therefore, announcements pertaining to these two systems do not affect Quantico Schools.

Thank you, parents, for your contributions and support! If you have any questions, please call the office at any time.

February 27, 2008

RES Mission Statement:
Our School Community provides quality opportunities and experiences that inspire the children of our military families to become creative problem solvers, life-long learners, and productive members of a diverse technological world.

Goal 1: All students will improve their writing skills across the curriculum.
Goal 2: All students will improve their problem solving skills across the curriculum.

Honesty is the Word of the Month for February
Responsibility is the Word of the Month for April
Friendship is the Word of the Month for May

Mark Your Calendar:
• February 29: Jump Rope Assembly (0900)
• March 3: Read Across America Day
• March 9: Daylight Savings Time begins
• March 14: Spring Fling
• March 17: St. Patrick’s Day
• March 17-21: TerraNova Testing for 3rd Grade students
• March 20: Spring begins
• March 21: End of Grading Period
• March 24-28: Spring Break – No School
• April 7: Teacher Workday (no school for students)
• April 13 – 19: National Environmental Week
• April 14 - April 17: Parent/Teacher Conferences for K-3. Early Release days. K-3 students will be dismissed at 1:00 p.m. each day. PM Pre-K classes WILL be in session.

FROM THE NURSE:

FEVER (> 100°F) – Students must stay home until fever free for 24 hours without the use of Tylenol or Motrin. This means 1 well day at home before returning to school.
COUGH DROPS are considered an over the counter medication and are not allowed at school.
If your child requires any type of medication while at school, please call me to discuss options and procedure.

YEARBOOKS: Remember to order your 2007-2008 John H. Russell Elementary School Yearbook. Just $15 to capture your school year.

Read Across America, Monday, March 3, 2008: Our school will be celebrating the birthday of Dr. Seuss on Monday, March 3. Every school in America is invited to join in the fun of this nation-wide project to express the importance of reading in America’s schools. Many of the teachers have planned special classroom activities such as D.E.A.R. Dr. Seuss time—Drop Everything and Read Dr. Seuss. Guest readers will be coming into many classrooms to read their favorite Dr. Seuss books. Mr. Ekanger will be dressing up like the Cat -In -the –Hat. Each child will get a Dr. Seuss sticker to wear that day. Ms. Zysk will be reading a riddle each morning of that week, and students will be challenged to find the book that matches the riddle. Other teachers are asking students to wear hats on March 3 for a “Hats Off to Dr. Seuss!” theme. A big birthday cake will be served after the students finish their lunches on March 3 (with a healthy fruit choice option) and the www.Seussville.com website has been added to “Resources” on the school’s website. Parents can help by finding out what the class is doing, and by encouraging their children to read outside of school. The Seussville website can be used at home. It has an educational “Storymaker” choice in which students may write and read their own stories. Please join in our fun and excitement as we prepare to “Read Across America” on March 3! Russell E.S.

Jump Rope Assembly
Friday, February 29, is our jump rope assembly which begins at 9:00. This is an opportunity for any child to show off his/her skills learned this month. Don’t forget to wear comfortable clothes and good jumping shoes. Ask your child if he/she is going to participate and then come and enjoy the athletes.

Spring Fling: March 14, 2008, 6 to 7:30 pm A carnival with all classrooms presenting a game for the children to participate in. The PEA will operate food concessions, selling food and drinks.

SUBJECT: National Environmental Week The National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) has established the week of April 13-19 as a time to build support for more environmental education in schools. The goal of National Environmental Education (EE) Week is to involve thousands of educators and millions of students in environmental activities that celebrate Earth Day and increase the awareness of the work needed to protect the natural gifts of our planet.

Standardized Testing: During the week of March 17-21 3rd grade RES students will be administered the CTB Multiple Assessments/TerraNova. The content of CTB Multiple Assessment/TerraNova is based on the same national standards guiding the DDESS curriculum. The test format provides a number of open-ended test items requiring students to explain the processes used to attain their answers. It also uses authentic maps and other literature as the basis for test items rather than using material developed for the test. Please be aware of this week for 3rd grade students. Do not make medical appointments for your child from 8:30 a.m. – 11:20 a.m. each day during the week. In that way interruptions will be reduced, and enable your child to be present for this important testing. It is imperative that students be on time for school during TerraNova assessment week. Thank you for your assistance.

FROM THE COUNSELOR: Russell has an awesome community of parents and children. We were able to send ten packages of cards, candy, gum and school supplies overseas, thanks to your generosity and support. The packages sent had a combined weight of over 100 pounds. We already had one response back from a marine who received a package and distributed the cards and his exact words were, “It was like a ray of sunshine on a gloomy day.” Thank you for supporting our school activities! RES Counselor

PARENT NEWSLETTER NO. 10
March 13, 2008
RES Mission Statement:
Our School Community provides quality opportunities and experiences that inspire the children of our military families to become creative problem solvers, life-long learners, and productive members of a diverse technological world.

Goal 1: All students will improve their writing skills across the curriculum.
Goal 2: All students will improve their problem solving skills across the curriculum.

Patience is the Word of the Month for March
Responsibility is the Word of the Month for April
Friendship is the Word of the Month for May
Mark Your Calendar:
• March 14: Spring Fling
• March 17: St. Patrick’s Day
• March 17-21: TerraNova Testing for 3rd Grade students
• March 20: Spring begins
• March 24-28: Spring Break – No School
• April 4: End of Grading Period
• April 7: Teacher Workday (no school for students)
• April 13 – 19: National Environmental Week
• April 14 - April 17: Parent/Teacher Conferences for K-3. Early Release days. K-3 students will be dismissed at 1:00 p.m. each day. PM Pre-K classes WILL be in session.

Standardized Testing: During the week of March 17-21 3rd grade RES students will be administered the CTB Multiple Assessments/TerraNova. The content of CTB Multiple Assessment/TerraNova is based on the same national standards guiding the DDESS curriculum. The test format provides a number of open-ended test items requiring students to explain the processes used to attain their answers. It also uses authentic maps and other literature as the basis for test items rather than using material developed for the test. Please be aware of this week for 3rd grade students. Do not make medical appointments for your child from 8:30 a.m. – 11:20 a.m. each day during the week. In that way interruptions will be reduced, and enable your child to be present for this important testing. It is imperative that students be on time for school during TerraNova assessment week. Thank you for your assistance.

Spring Fling: March 14, 2008, 5 to 7:30 pm A carnival with all classrooms presenting a game for the children to participate in. The PEA will operate food concessions, selling food and drinks.

Back to top

PARENT NEWSLETTER NO. 11

April 3, 2008

RES Mission Statement:

Our School Community provides quality opportunities and experiences that inspire the children of our military families to become creative problem solvers, life-long learners, and productive members of a diverse technological world.

Goal 1: All students will improve their writing skills across the curriculum.

Goal 2: All students will improve their problem solving skills across the curriculum.

April is:

The Month of the Military Child

National Volunteer Month

Turn Off TV Month

Responsibility is the Word of the Month for April

Friendship is the Word of the Month for May

Mark Your Calendar:

April 4: End of Grading Period
April 7: Teacher Workday (no school for students)
April 8-11: PEA Book Fair
April 11: April Assembly at 0900
April 13 – 19: National Environmental Week
April 14 - April 17: Parent/Teacher Conferences for K-3. Early Release days. K-3 students will be dismissed at 1:00 p.m. each day. PM Pre-K classes WILL be in session.
April 18: Turn Off T.V. Assembly at 0900
April 21 – 25: Turn Off T.V. Week
April 22: Earth Day
April 24: Spring Pictures (individual and Class pictures)
April 25: Volunteer Breakfast and Assembly
May 1: Spring Program at 0900 and 7 P.M.
May 2: Yearbook Dedication Assembly at 0900

DoDEA DIRECTOR’S STATEMENT ON THE MONTH OF THE MILITARY CHILD

"We celebrate the Month of the Military Child to stress the importance of providing children with quality services and support to help them succeed in a global environment. Military children assume many special responsibilities that deserve our understanding and recognition.”

Director of DoDEA

The Month of the Military Child

Russell Elementary School will join the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) and the Department of Defense (DoD) and military communities worldwide in celebrating April as Month of the Military Child.

We set aside this time to thank you and your children for the daily sacrifices you make and the challenges you face and overcome. We realize your children assume special responsibilities, accompany your family to assignments around the globe, endure hardships of separation and deployment, and reap the rewards of world-class citizenship and travel that make them and their role unique in our society. You and your children deserve nothing less than our unconditional support and total understanding.

Our school and the entire DoDEA organization are part of the community support network that is always available to you and your families and can always be depended on to provide exemplary educational programs which inspire and prepare all students for success in the global environment.

We are proud and fortunate to serve you and especially your children. We are grateful for your selfless dedication to our nation. We truly believe military children are the greatest and we are committed to helping all our students achieve their highest academic potential.

Throughout April, our school will sponsor a variety of activities in observance of the Month of the Military Child. We invite you to join our celebrations or volunteer wherever you can so we can make this celebration a family and community occasion.

Thank you for your continued support and thank you for sharing your children with us.

FITNESS:

There are many opportunities right here at your fingertips on base for you to take advantage of---for example from Semper Fit ... http://www.quantico.usmc-mccs.org/Semper_Fit/SemperFit_Rec.htm

Physical Fitness classes at Barber gym (including Yoga) http://www.quantico.usmc-mccs.org/Semper_Fit/Physical_Fitness.htm
Health Promotion Classes--such as Nutrition, Blood Pressure, Cholesterol... http://www.quantico.usmc-mccs.org/Semper_Fit/Health_Promotion.htm

The Quantico MCCS website provides a wealth of information/activities/resources available to you. http://www.quantico.usmc-mccs.org/index.htm

Month of April upcoming events to keep in mind...

***Child Abuse Prevention Month---blue awareness ribbons will be passed out at the gates at various times, FAP has a variety of programs/activates offered throughout the month http://www.quantico.usmc-mccs.org/Family_Services/FAP.htm

***Alcohol Awareness Month---CSAC offering treatment and prevention http://www.quantico.usmc-mccs.org/Family_Services/CSACC.htm

***Month of the Military Child---MCCS Children's Health and Fitness Fair, Saturday April 26th 0800-1100 at Butler Stadium...1 mile Fun Run, Group exercise classes, Obstacle course, Health Promotion Screenings, etc.

SUBJECT: Teacher of the Year Award Program

NOTE: More information will be coming out soon about the Teacher of the Year Program. Below is an overview of the program. If you would like to nominate a teacher, write a letter to the principal explaining why the teacher should be Teacher of the Year!

The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) has been invited to participate in the National Teacher of the Year Program sponsored by the Council of Chief State School Officers and ING. The mission of the National Teacher of the Year Program is to recognize and honor contributions of the American classroom teacher and to focus attention on excellence in teaching. This program is an opportunity for DoDEA to highlight the significant role our teachers play in the lives of our students.

Each district may select one teacher to be considered for the DoDEA Teacher of the Year. A panel will convene at DoDEA HQ in early October to select, from district nominees, the DoDEA Teacher of the Year. The DoDEA Teacher of the Year will represent the “state” of DoDEA in the national competition.

1. A peer, administrator, parent, or student may nominate a teacher by writing a letter to the teacher’s principal explaining why that teacher should be Teacher of the Year. This letter of nomination will become a part of the teacher’s application package.
2. The completed application with the principal’s endorsement and the letter of nomination should be submitted to the district superintendent or designee on or before May 2, 2008.
3. A panel consisting of the superintendent or designee, a curriculum liaison, and the current District Teacher of the Year will convene to review the applications and conduct interviews with the top candidates.
4. Only the teacher selected as the District Teacher of the Year completes the 2009 DoDEA/national application form.

Operation Purple Registration Opens March 24th: Registration for the 2008 Operation Purple summer camps opens March 24th and will only be available online through May 5th. Families are encouraged to apply to the location closest to their home, as transportation costs are not covered.

This year NMFA's Operation Purple camps will host children at 64 locations in 37 states and territories: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the Virgin Islands.

Information about specific camp locations is available on the Operation Purple website at http://www.operationpurple.org/. Specific camp information will be available when registration opens.

Source: http://www.nmfa.org/site/PageServer?pagename=government_and_you_enews_20080318#5

Yearbooks may still be purchased at the cost of $18.00

PARENT NEWSLETTER NO. 12

April 17, 2008

RES Mission Statement:

Goal 1: All students will improve their writing skills across the curriculum.

Goal 2: All students will improve their problem solving skills across the curriculum.

April is:

School Library Media Month

The Month of the Military Child

National Volunteer Month

Turn Off TV Month

Responsibility is the Word of the Month for April

Friendship is the Word of the Month for May

Mark Your Calendar:

April 18: Turn Off T.V. Assembly at 0900
April 21 – 25: Turn Off T.V. Week
April 22: Earth Day
April 24: Spring Pictures (individual and Class pictures)
April 25: Volunteer Breakfast and Assembly
May 1: Spring Program at 0900 and 7 P.M.
May 2: Yearbook Dedication Assembly at 0900
May 4-10: DoDEA Observes National Teacher Appreciation Week

EARLY WITHDRAWAL DATE – May 23: Each year we announce an early withdraw date for families having orders to depart the installation prior to the end of our school year. As with prior years, an early withdrawal may occur for up to two weeks prior to the last instructional day. The parent/sponsor must show their military orders to the school principal/registrar validating the need. If the school receives a request that meets these criteria, the school may allow the withdrawal and take final action on the report card. For Quantico, the early withdrawal date for SY 2007-2008 is May 23.

TEACHER OF THE YEAR PROGRAM, 2009 NOMINATIONS: The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) has once again been invited to participate in the 2009 National Teacher of the Year Program sponsored by the Council of Chief State School Officers and Scholastic, Inc. The mission of the National Teacher of the Year Program is to recognize and honor contributions of the American teacher and to focus attention on excellence in teaching. This program is an opportunity for DoDEA to highlight the significant role our teachers play in the lives of our students.

Each district may select one teacher to be considered for the 2009 DoDEA Teacher of the Year. A panel will convene at DoDEA HQ in early October to select, from district nominees, the DoDEA Teacher of the Year. The Teacher of the Year will represent the “state” of DoDEA in the national competition.

Parents, this is your opportunity to contribute to this process again. A peer, administrator, parent, or student may nominate a teacher by writing a letter to the teacher’s principal explaining why that teacher should be Teacher of the Year. This letter of nomination will become a part of the teacher’s application package. If you would like to nominate one of RES’s wonderful educators please turn your letter in to me before April 25, 2008. I am attaching the flyer and Attachment 1 (provides additional guidance) to the Parent Newsletter for your convenience.

PARENT NEWSLETTER NO. 13

May 1, 2008

RES Mission Statement:

Goal 1: All students will improve their writing skills across the curriculum.

Goal 2: All students will improve their problem solving skills across the curriculum.

Friendship is the Word of the Month for May

Mark Your Calendar:

May 1: Spring Program at 0900 and 7 P.M.
May 2: Yearbook Dedication Assembly at 0900
May 4-10: DoDEA Observes National Teacher Appreciation Week
May 6: National Teachers’ Day
May 7: National Nurses’ Day
May 9: Word-of-the-Month Assembly
May 13: Kindergarten Field Trip
May 22: Second Grade Field Trip
May 26: Federal Holiday – Memorial Day (no school)
May 27: Field Day
May 30: Sock Hop
June 6: Last Day of School for SY 2007-2008

REMINDER: GRADES K-3 SCHOOL DAY: Kindergarten through third grade classes are scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to 2:50 p.m. If you bring your child, do not arrive before 8:25 a.m., as there will be no one available to supervise until the buses arrive. Thank you for your cooperation. If your child is late, you must sign your child in at the main office.

DoDEA NEWS RELEASE

DoDEA Observes National Teacher Appreciation Week – May 4-10

ARLINGTON, VA – The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) will join schools around the country and the National Parent Teacher Association (PTA) in recognizing the nation’s teachers during National Teacher Appreciation Week.

This year, Teacher Appreciation week is scheduled from May 4-10. "Great Teachers Make Great Public Schools," is the enduring theme for the week-long celebration highlighting the crucial role teachers play in making sure every child receives a quality public education.

The origins of Teacher Appreciation events are a little bit complicated. Although most agree that sometime around 1944 Arkansas teacher Mattye Whyte Woodridge began corresponding with political and education leaders about the need for a national day to honor teachers and show teacher appreciation. It was First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, who, in 1953, persuaded the 81st Congress to proclaim a National Teacher Day and it wasn’t until 1980 that the National Education Association encouraged Congress to observe the day but that victory was short-lived since it only occurred that year. In 1985 the National Parent Teach Association established Teacher Appreciation Week as the first full week of May and since that year, teachers, administrators, parents and students have taken the time each year to thank teachers for the hard work they do each day to make public schools great for every child.

“It’s my great pleasure each year to encourage participation in activities to show our teachers know how much they are appreciated,” said Dr. Joe Tafoya, DoDEA Director. “Our service members and their families sacrifice much to ensure we all reap the benefits of our democracy. Our teachers make sure that a quality education is one thing military families don’t have to sacrifice. I personally thank all of our teachers for their commitment and determination to do that most important thing – teach our students.”

DoDEA plans, directs, coordinates, and manages the education programs for Department of Defense (DoD) dependents who would otherwise not have access to a high-quality public education. DoDEA consists of the Department of Defense Dependents Schools (DoDDS) located overseas, and the Department of Defense Domestic Dependent Elementary and Secondary Schools (DDESS) located in the United States and its territories and possessions. DoDEA provides education to eligible DoD military and civilian dependents from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.

Privacy and Security Notice
Accessibility Notice