Content Row
ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
November 2, 2017
UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER
SCHOOL MESSAGE
In approximately two weeks, first trimester standards based report cards will be emailed home. This will provide families with an update on student progress in relation to a variety of academic areas. Here is information regarding the LASD Mastery Rubric. You can also find the LASD Curriculum Guides here.
About a week later, parent conferences will be underway. The intended focus of this time together is to engage in conversation about your child’s strengths and areas of need. A child’s evidence of learning will encompass multiple measures that include assessments, student work, and teacher observation.
One piece that may be included is the baseline data from the iReady Diagnostic administered in late August, early September of 2017 for students in grade 1-6. Some questions have arisen regarding a change in level from the end of the prior year to the start of this new year. In some cases, some students had scale scores that went down. Here is a table that includes the scale scores denoted for each grade level (columns) and then subdivided into ability levels (rows). As you follow an ability level across a row, you can see changes in the range from one grade level to another. When a student took the diagnostic at the end of last year, their performance was compared within that prior grade level range. When a student took the diagnostic at the beginning of this year, the psychometrics adjust to the new grade level range. In other words, one cannot compare the score of last year to this year. That is why we consider the data collected in August/September BASELINE data for this year. Students will be taking the diagnostic again in January. This will provide a viable update in regards to progress per this one measure.
PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW
UPDATE ON THE SOLAR PROJECT AFFECTING THE PARKING LOT
Due to delays with paperwork at the state architect’s office, the next phase of construction (drilling and pouring concrete) is postponed until the week of November 13. We still expect to complete construction by the December 31 deadline.
AMC8 MATH - TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14TH, 3:15pm
DAILY PLAYGROUND SUPERVISION FILLED - What does this mean?
STUDENT COUNCIL
AUCTION ITEMS STILL AVAILABLE
ANNUAL ALMOND PUMPKIN CARVING & DECORATING CONTEST WINNERS - CONGRATULATIONS
Silliest: Maria Krupina
Spookiest: Justin Goins
Crowd Favorite: Brayan Hernandez
Best Use of Pumpkins: Amelle Badey
Thanks to everyone who participated in the fun this year! Every entry was fabulous, spooky and truly delightful.
PTA: TWO EASY PEASY POMEGRANATE SQUEEZY WAYS TO HELP
BOOKWAVE
WALKATHON DONATIONS STILL AVAILABLE
LAEF: Thank You!
The LAEF Phonathon was a big success with 61 parents, LASD staff, and volunteers calling LASD families. We are grateful to those of you who have donated this school year. Your support is making a difference for all our TK-8 students by funding STEM, arts, literacy, wellness, and personalized learning.
LAEF: $50K Challenge Match Deadline is around the corner
It’s not too late for every dollar you give to LAEF to get doubled by our Board of Directors! There are matching funds still available, but we need you to donate by 11/17. The suggested donation is $1,200 per student, and every gift in any amount will help us meet our $3.7M goal. To learn more, pledge or donate, go to LAEFonline.org.
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
SUPPORT PUPPY POUND RESCUE
Hi Almond families! We are girl scout troop 61016. We are here today to talk about doing a puppy food drive for the puppies at puppy pound rescue. There will be a collection in the office. ”Taste of The Wild” is preferred, but all donations are also appreciated. We will be collecting November 1 - 15. There will also be cash donation boxes in every classroom to help puppies with medical needs. Thanks for helping!!! - Troop 61016
One Dollar for Life invites you to a fundraiser at Chef Chu’s! 15% of your total order (dine-in or takeout) will be donated to ODFL.
Date: Monday, November 13, 2017
Time: 11:00am-9:30pm Reservations are recommended for large groups
Every dollar donated will go directly to support a project. This year we are building projects in: Zambia; Kenya; India; Nicaragua; Nepal; and South Africa.
We build Bigger People and a Better World. It’s Working!
You MUST present this flyer when paying for ODFL to receive the donation!!
S.O.A.R. CELEBRATIONS
(listed alphabetically by last name)
WANT TO SUBMIT SOMETHING TO THE THURSDAY WORD?
Send announcements to us at AlmondThursdayWord@
Quick Links…
School & Community News now found via Peachjar:
https://www.peachjar.com/
Almond Elementary School Website
Copyright © 2003-2016 Los Altos School District. All rights reserved.
ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
November 2, 2017
UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER
SCHOOL MESSAGE
In approximately two weeks, first trimester standards based report cards will be emailed home. This will provide families with an update on student progress in relation to a variety of academic areas. Here is information regarding the LASD Mastery Rubric. You can also find the LASD Curriculum Guides here.
About a week later, parent conferences will be underway. The intended focus of this time together is to engage in conversation about your child’s strengths and areas of need. A child’s evidence of learning will encompass multiple measures that include assessments, student work, and teacher observation.
One piece that may be included is the baseline data from the iReady Diagnostic administered in late August, early September of 2017 for students in grade 1-6. Some questions have arisen regarding a change in level from the end of the prior year to the start of this new year. In some cases, some students had scale scores that went down. Here is a table that includes the scale scores denoted for each grade level (columns) and then subdivided into ability levels (rows). As you follow an ability level across a row, you can see changes in the range from one grade level to another. When a student took the diagnostic at the end of last year, their performance was compared within that prior grade level range. When a student took the diagnostic at the beginning of this year, the psychometrics adjust to the new grade level range. In other words, one cannot compare the score of last year to this year. That is why we consider the data collected in August/September BASELINE data for this year. Students will be taking the diagnostic again in January. This will provide a viable update in regards to progress per this one measure.
PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW
UPDATE ON THE SOLAR PROJECT AFFECTING THE PARKING LOT
Due to delays with paperwork at the state architect’s office, the next phase of construction (drilling and pouring concrete) is postponed until the week of November 13. We still expect to complete construction by the December 31 deadline.
AMC8 MATH - TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14TH, 3:15pm
DAILY PLAYGROUND SUPERVISION FILLED - What does this mean?
STUDENT COUNCIL
AUCTION ITEMS STILL AVAILABLE
ANNUAL ALMOND PUMPKIN CARVING & DECORATING CONTEST WINNERS - CONGRATULATIONS
Silliest: Maria Krupina
Spookiest: Justin Goins
Crowd Favorite: Brayan Hernandez
Best Use of Pumpkins: Amelle Badey
Thanks to everyone who participated in the fun this year! Every entry was fabulous, spooky and truly delightful.
PTA: TWO EASY PEASY POMEGRANATE SQUEEZY WAYS TO HELP
BOOKWAVE
WALKATHON DONATIONS STILL AVAILABLE
LAEF: Thank You!
The LAEF Phonathon was a big success with 61 parents, LASD staff, and volunteers calling LASD families. We are grateful to those of you who have donated this school year. Your support is making a difference for all our TK-8 students by funding STEM, arts, literacy, wellness, and personalized learning.
LAEF: $50K Challenge Match Deadline is around the corner
It’s not too late for every dollar you give to LAEF to get doubled by our Board of Directors! There are matching funds still available, but we need you to donate by 11/17. The suggested donation is $1,200 per student, and every gift in any amount will help us meet our $3.7M goal. To learn more, pledge or donate, go to LAEFonline.org.
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
SUPPORT PUPPY POUND RESCUE
Hi Almond families! We are girl scout troop 61016. We are here today to talk about doing a puppy food drive for the puppies at puppy pound rescue. There will be a collection in the office. ”Taste of The Wild” is preferred, but all donations are also appreciated. We will be collecting November 1 - 15. There will also be cash donation boxes in every classroom to help puppies with medical needs. Thanks for helping!!! - Troop 61016
One Dollar for Life invites you to a fundraiser at Chef Chu’s! 15% of your total order (dine-in or takeout) will be donated to ODFL.
Date: Monday, November 13, 2017
Time: 11:00am-9:30pm Reservations are recommended for large groups
Every dollar donated will go directly to support a project. This year we are building projects in: Zambia; Kenya; India; Nicaragua; Nepal; and South Africa.
We build Bigger People and a Better World. It’s Working!
You MUST present this flyer when paying for ODFL to receive the donation!!
S.O.A.R. CELEBRATIONS
(listed alphabetically by last name)
WANT TO SUBMIT SOMETHING TO THE THURSDAY WORD?
Send announcements to us at AlmondThursdayWord@
Quick Links…
School & Community News now found via Peachjar:
https://www.peachjar.com/
Almond Elementary School Website
Copyright © 2003-2016 Los Altos School District. All rights reserved.
ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
October 26, 2017
UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER
SCHOOL MESSAGE
“As you walk down the fairway of life you must smell the roses, for you only get to play one round.” - Ben Hogan (for those who aren’t golfers, he’s one of the great ones)
Let’s pause for a moment and recognize some of the beautiful roses among us.
PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW
Almond Spook-a-thon
JOB OPPORTUNITY - DAILY PLAYGROUND SUPERVISION 2:15 - 3:15PM
Volunteers Needed for Teacher Appreciation Lunch
The PTA Staff Appreciation Committee organizes a teacher luncheon each year during the November parent/teacher conferences. Teachers and staff can quickly pop into the staff room for a warm lunch in between their conferences on Monday, November 20. In order to host this lunch, we rely on parent volunteers to provide soups, sides, desserts and drinks. If you are able to contribute, please sign up here: Sign-Up - November Soup Parent / Teacher Conference. Contact Lynn Kostow or Andrea Bocking with any questions.
LAEF: Thank You!
The LAEF Phonathon was a big success with 61 parents, LASD staff, and volunteers calling LASD families. We are grateful to those of you who have donated this school year. Your support is making a difference for all our TK-8 students by funding STEM, arts, literacy, wellness, and personalized learning.
LAEF: $50K Challenge Match Deadline is around the corner
It’s not too late for every dollar you give to LAEF to get doubled by our Board of Directors! There are matching funds still available, but we need you to donate by 11/17. The suggested donation is $1,200 per student, and every gift in any amount will help us meet our $3.7M goal. To learn more, pledge or donate, go to LAEFonline.org.
STUDENT COUNCIL
The 2017-2018 Student Council Officers would like to introduce themselves to the Almond Community and share their vision for the year ahead.
The English Learner Advisory Committee Needs You!
Almond Community Service Event - Ecumenical Hunger Program Food Pantry Volunteer Event!
S.O.A.R. CELEBRATIONS
(listed alphabetically by last name)
WANT TO SUBMIT SOMETHING TO THE THURSDAY WORD?
Send announcements to us at AlmondThursdayWord@
Quick Links…
School & Community News now found via Peachjar:
ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
October 19, 2017
UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER
SCHOOL MESSAGE
The parking lot is being prepped for Monday’s, 10/23 Solar Parking Lot Project; RESERVED spots have been demarcated.
RESERVED spots are for:
Unfortunately, for eight weeks, there will not be a single spot available for school families to utilize. Many Almond staff members will be parking in the neighborhood and will have tags provided by LASD to support local law enforcement who will be monitoring activity in the streets. Families - Please DO NOT park in any spot in the parking lot while the solar project is underway.
Why must we even bother to send this message? Because currently, reserved and staff spots are not respected by some members of our community. When you see a spot that says staff and you park in that spot, even for 15 minutes, you create a situation where a staff member pulls into their workplace and cannot find a place to situate their vehicle and must then circulate and find alternate options. When you park in the reserved spot of a family who contributed a sizable financial donation to not only benefit our school, but to also allow for the convenience of an in and out spot, you are essentially communicating that their generosity is not of value.
Almond staff will be monitoring the parking lot during arrival time, ensuring that any spot occupied is occupied by someone with an official tag that is being provided by LASD. If a car without a tag is located in a spot, announcements will be made to have that individual move their car immediately, and if necessary, parking enforcement will be contacted.
Thank you to the many members of our community who heed by these guidelines and support an effective atmosphere of mutual respect in our parking lot on a daily basis.
PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW
LAEF: HELP SUPPORT OUR TEACHERS
The Los Altos Educational Foundation (LAEF) provides funding for our teachers and staff in the areas of STEM, arts, literacy, wellness and personalized learning. The Foundation’s biggest fundraiser, the Phonathon, is coming up on October 24th and 25th and we are asking for every family to participate in two ways:
SPACE AVAILABLE AT 49er YOUTH CAMP @ Loyola!!!
S.O.A.R. CELEBRATIONS
(listed alphabetically by last name)
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
Girl Scout Bake and Jamba Juice Sale for Hurricane Victims - October 24th
WANT TO SUBMIT SOMETHING TO THE THURSDAY WORD?
Send announcements to us at AlmondThursdayWord@
Quick Links…
School & Community News now found via Peachjar:
https://www.peachjar.com/
Almond Elementary School Website
Copyright © 2003-2016 Los Altos School District. All rights reserved
ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
October 12, 2017
UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER
SCHOOL MESSAGE
SENT EARLIER TODAY…
Greetings Almond Families,
Due to the projection of unprecedented, unhealthy air quality for the next several days in the Bay Area, the Walk-a-thon scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 14th has been postponed. The health of our students, as well as staff, volunteers & participants must be first and foremost.
The fires in the North Bay are proving to be historical in their impact. We've cheered students in the past through both extreme heat and chilly rain. However, the already poor air quality is projected to worsen significantly for the next few days.
The Almond PTA is coordinating with other district PTAs to research options for rescheduling this fun, important community-building and fundraising event. We are looking at future Saturdays and are willing to be creative. Stay tuned for details.
I want to thank our event chairs and all the parents who have prepared t-shirts, medals, food and the course itself. So much time and energy has been invested. Your children may be disappointed - please reassure them that we will celebrate a successful event together - soon!
While postponing this annual family event is not what we were hoping, we need to keep all of our community members' health and wellness in mind. We are saddened by this inconvenience, but we are fortunate to not be contending with potentially catastrophic losses like our friends and family in the North Bay. We have been moved to support so many suffering in disaster zones recently - this is close to home.
A group of Almond parents are considering how we might utilize the time that was already set aside on Saturday to organize a relief effort to help families up north who are facing tremendous hardships. Once a concrete plan is in place, we will communicate it to you in the event you’d like to participate.
Thank you for your understanding. Please look for future information about the rescheduling of our Walk-a-thon.
Sincerely,
Erika Benadom
PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW
WALKING, WHEELING, & CARPOOLING
LAEF: PHONATHON ON THE WAY!
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR TEACHER APPRECIATION LUNCH
PROJECT CORNERSTONE OCTOBER MESSAGE
S.O.A.R. CELEBRATIONS
(listed alphabetically by last name)
WANT TO SUBMIT SOMETHING TO THE THURSDAY WORD?
Send announcements to us at AlmondThursdayWord@
Quick Links…
School & Community News now found via Peachjar:
https://www.peachjar.com/
Almond Elementary School Website
Copyright © 2003-2016 Los Altos School District. All rights reserved.
ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
October 12, 2017
UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER
SCHOOL MESSAGE
SENT EARLIER TODAY…
Greetings Almond Families,
Due to the projection of unprecedented, unhealthy air quality for the next several days in the Bay Area, the Walk-a-thon scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 14th has been postponed. The health of our students, as well as staff, volunteers & participants must be first and foremost.
The fires in the North Bay are proving to be historical in their impact. We've cheered students in the past through both extreme heat and chilly rain. However, the already poor air quality is projected to worsen significantly for the next few days.
The Almond PTA is coordinating with other district PTAs to research options for rescheduling this fun, important community-building and fundraising event. We are looking at future Saturdays and are willing to be creative. Stay tuned for details.
I want to thank our event chairs and all the parents who have prepared t-shirts, medals, food and the course itself. So much time and energy has been invested. Your children may be disappointed - please reassure them that we will celebrate a successful event together - soon!
While postponing this annual family event is not what we were hoping, we need to keep all of our community members' health and wellness in mind. We are saddened by this inconvenience, but we are fortunate to not be contending with potentially catastrophic losses like our friends and family in the North Bay. We have been moved to support so many suffering in disaster zones recently - this is close to home.
A group of Almond parents are considering how we might utilize the time that was already set aside on Saturday to organize a relief effort to help families up north who are facing tremendous hardships. Once a concrete plan is in place, we will communicate it to you in the event you’d like to participate.
Thank you for your understanding. Please look for future information about the rescheduling of our Walk-a-thon.
Sincerely,
Erika Benadom
PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW
WALKING, WHEELING, & CARPOOLING
LAEF: PHONATHON ON THE WAY!
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR TEACHER APPRECIATION LUNCH
PROJECT CORNERSTONE OCTOBER MESSAGE
S.O.A.R. CELEBRATIONS
(listed alphabetically by last name)
WANT TO SUBMIT SOMETHING TO THE THURSDAY WORD?
Send announcements to us at AlmondThursdayWord@
Quick Links…
School & Community News now found via Peachjar:
https://www.peachjar.com/
Almond Elementary School Website
Copyright © 2003-2016 Los Altos School District. All rights reserved.
ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
October 5, 2017
UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER
SCHOOL MESSAGE
A number of parents and some staff have expressed safety concerns regarding our parking lot and drive through. This is only going to become more complex once the Solar Project begins. We are begging for cooperation from our parents/guardians and students with the following things.
PARENTS & GUARDIANS
STUDENTS
PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW
SOLAR PROJECT SUPPORT: Here Comes the Sun!
WALKATHON & SILENT AUCTION - OCTOBER 14
ALMOND BAKERS
The PTA's Almond Hospitality is volunteer parent bakers for the various school events (BookFair, Walkathon, Carnival, Junior Olympics, Graduation, Kinder Orientation) throughout the year. Some items are sold to fundraise and others are for reception purposes. Please join in this great tradition of helping the PTA and signup to bake cookies or another yummy treat for the upcoming Walkathon here.
VISION SCREENING
The District Nurses will be doing vision screening, both near and far, at ALMOND SCHOOL for all Kindergarten, 2nd, and 5th grades on October 30th, 2017. If your child has glasses or contacts, please make sure that they wear them to school on the day of the screening. The nurse will mail a referral form to the parents of students who do not pass the vision screening.
PTA YEARBOOK COMMITTEE CHAIR NEEDED
FALL BOOK FAIR
LAEF: HELP SUPPORT OUR TEACHERS
S.O.A.R. CELEBRATIONS
(listed alphabetically by last name)
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
Parent Education / Involvement Opportunities:
WANT TO SUBMIT SOMETHING TO THE THURSDAY WORD?
Send announcements to us at AlmondThursdayWord@
Quick Links…
School & Community News now found via Peachjar:
https://www.peachjar.com/
Almond Elementary School Website
Copyright © 2003-2016 Los Altos School District. All rights reserved.
ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
October 5, 2017
UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER
SCHOOL MESSAGE
A number of parents and some staff have expressed safety concerns regarding our parking lot and drive through. This is only going to become more complex once the Solar Project begins. We are begging for cooperation from our parents/guardians and students with the following things.
PARENTS & GUARDIANS
STUDENTS
PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW
SOLAR PROJECT SUPPORT: Here Comes the Sun!
WALKATHON & SILENT AUCTION - OCTOBER 14
ALMOND BAKERS
The PTA's Almond Hospitality is volunteer parent bakers for the various school events (BookFair, Walkathon, Carnival, Junior Olympics, Graduation, Kinder Orientation) throughout the year. Some items are sold to fundraise and others are for reception purposes. Please join in this great tradition of helping the PTA and signup to bake cookies or another yummy treat for the upcoming Walkathon here.
VISION SCREENING
The District Nurses will be doing vision screening, both near and far, at ALMOND SCHOOL for all Kindergarten, 2nd, and 5th grades on October 30th, 2017. If your child has glasses or contacts, please make sure that they wear them to school on the day of the screening. The nurse will mail a referral form to the parents of students who do not pass the vision screening.
PTA YEARBOOK COMMITTEE CHAIR NEEDED
FALL BOOK FAIR
LAEF: HELP SUPPORT OUR TEACHERS
S.O.A.R. CELEBRATIONS
(listed alphabetically by last name)
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
Parent Education / Involvement Opportunities:
WANT TO SUBMIT SOMETHING TO THE THURSDAY WORD?
Send announcements to us at AlmondThursdayWord@
Quick Links…
School & Community News now found via Peachjar:
https://www.peachjar.com/
Almond Elementary School Website
Copyright © 2003-2016 Los Altos School District. All rights reserved.
ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
September 28, 2017
UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER
SCHOOL MESSAGE
At this morning’s School Coffee, Jill Croft (Almond’s Literacy IST - Instructional Support Teacher) and six students from Mrs. Better’s class, shared information about Reader’s Workshop.
A balanced literacy program contains the following components:
Almond teachers - teach students. They do not teach Reader’s Workshop. One of the tools that they will use in building literacy skills with their students this year will be Reader’s Workshop. It is one structure that provides a framework to incorporate many of the components that develop effective readers, writers, speakers, and listeners.
The Reading Workshop model contains a variety of instructional strategies. Mini-lessons jump start the session to deliver direct, explicit instruction around an identified class need. While students read books of their choice independently, teachers may conference with different students to check in on fluency, comprehension, and book selection. Teachers might also identify small groups of students who need further instruction around a particular need. A teacher selected book, called an anchor text, might be read aloud over several weeks to students as a means to focus on particular reading skills. In the upper grades (3-6), students may participate in book clubs. Reader’s Workshop notebooks are utilized to assist students in digging deeper into their text and to ensure they are developing the necessary skills to write about what they’re reading.
We very much appreciated the thoughtful questions that arose from our parent community this morning. Some have been paraphrased below.
Q: Is there a balance between kids choosing their own books and the teacher making certain selections?
A: Yes. We understand that if children do not receive some guidance, they might select books that do not grow them as readers but instead keep them stagnant. The anchor text that is read together as a class is identified through the Reader’s Workshop curriculum. This book will be the same in each unit and within the grade level. The books that students read during independent time will be ones they choose. A teacher will confer with students to help determine if the book is appropriately challenging them. In addition, if a child appears to become stuck reading a series in a particular genre, the teacher would likely assist them in exploring other options. Finally, book talk books are being pulled from a collection that was ordered through our district. Teachers may or may not give students choice in their selection. It will depend on the circumstance, but will be balanced.
Q: Are students limited to reading books at a specific level?
A: No. The levels are determined through the F&P assessment. This one measure provides information about a child’s “instructional” level (A-Z). Some teachers have leveled their classroom libraries into baskets that have the letters identified. Other teachers have organized their books into genres and the books themselves have the letters indicated on them. This leveling system is intended to guide students in selecting books within a range...not just “that” letter. If a child shows interest in reading a book at a higher level as a result of the content, as long as the child doesn’t become frustrated or disheartened with navigating through the text, a child will not be prevented from reading a book in which they are interested in.
Q: Do all students know their levels? When will we, the parents, know them?
A: As a staff, we agreed to share out the F&P Levels with parents at the November Conferences so that we could provide a context around this singular data point. During the coffee, it became apparent that we do not have a consistent practice around how we communicate this information to students. We will be discussing this as a staff in the upcoming weeks. We DO NOT WANT students walking around thinking, “I am a level G.” Instead, the language we would like to encourage is, “My current instructional level in reading is near the ‘G’ range.” We will be certain to calibrate around these ideas and couple them with our heavy efforts in Growth Mindset work to ensure healthy self perceptions around reading.
Q: My child shared that one of the books their class started to read in book club contained content that was too mature for their age range. What is being done to safeguard against this?
A: We do have book club sets from the publisher that range from Level A (kindergarten) to Level Z (8th grade). Through this experience, we learned that some of the X, Y, Z books might contain mature content. As a result, we will be looking through these levels and identifying which books may fall into this category. We will be explicit in communicating this with families and their students so that if they wish not to read these books, they will be able to make that decision.
Q: When will children be taught “how” to read? Will there be intentional work around vocabulary development?
A: Reader’s Workshop is just one structure that will be utilized to foster a love of reading. In grades K-3, Almond is implementing another tool to support the teaching of phonics instruction - PhonoGraphix. Our teachers just completed the training on this strategy. This will be taught during WINN time because we do not want to reteach the alphabet’s letters and sounds to those who already know them, and we want to ensure we teach critical spelling patterns to those still needing this instruction. In grades 4-6, students have different rates of fluency (how smoothly they read) and comprehension (what they understand from the text). This can at times be hindered through a struggle with vocabulary. While research has proven that traditional vocabulary tests do not actually grow vocabulary, our state standards still emphasize the need to learn about prefixes, suffixes, root words and more. This will take place during word study time and will likely take place outside of the Reader’s Workshop structure.
Q: My 6th grader says they’re not doing Reader’s Workshop.
A: That is correct. The 6th graders began this school year with a Writer’s Workshop unit. They have been using the mini-lesson structure, drafting, revising, publishing (and more) to develop personal narratives. They are completing this unit in the next few weeks and will then engage in a Reader’s Workshop unit next. They will alternate between reading and writing throughout the year.
Q: Is every teacher and grade level then doing both Reader’s and Writer’s Workshop?
A: No. District wide, we are all working together to implement the Reader’s Workshop structure into our instruction around literacy. All teachers will be teaching writing, because it is a Common Core State Standard (CCSS). Some teachers have elected to incorporate Writer’s Workshop as well. This is where the art vs. the science of teaching comes in. In order to meet the many varying needs of students, teachers utilize a variety of practices to ensure students get what they need.
Q: My child is assigned homework to respond to their reading that doesn’t get marked. Is this to be expected?
A: Homework is a topic that elicits a wide range of perspectives from families. Some parents would prefer that there not be any homework, while some believe their children do not receive enough. When we do assign homework, we do so with the following things in mind. It should be able to be accomplished independently and should be reinforcing already learned information. If a child cannot complete their homework accordingly, then that will inform the teacher that additional instruction is needed. Some homework may be graded, other homework might not. If a teacher were to give feedback on every single output a student produces, they would not have adequate time to spend designing the learning. Therefore teachers are often strategic in identifying work on which feedback will be provided. If an assignment is for practice, that might not get marked up by the teacher. However, if a teacher is working with students on finalizing a writing piece associated with their reading, they will then likely provide specific guidance or feedback.
If you have a questions or concerns about Reader’s Workshop or literacy instruction, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your teacher.
PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW
INTERNATIONAL WALK TO SCHOOL DAY
PTA YEARBOOK COMMITTEE CHAIR NEEDED
WALKATHON & SILENT AUCTION
LAEF: WE’VE RAISED $1 MILLION!
S.O.A.R. CELEBRATIONS
(listed alphabetically by last name)
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
Why Parents Matter More Than Peers: Restoring A Healthy Balance in Adult-Child Relationships
SELPA 1 CAC Parent Education Panel with Special Education Administrators!
WANT TO SUBMIT SOMETHING TO THE THURSDAY WORD?
Send announcements to us at AlmondThursdayWord@
Quick Links…
School & Community News now found via Peachjar:
https://www.peachjar.com/
Almond Elementary School Website
Copyright © 2003-2016 Los Altos School District. All rights reserved.
ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
September 28, 2017
UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER
SCHOOL MESSAGE
At this morning’s School Coffee, Jill Croft (Almond’s Literacy IST - Instructional Support Teacher) and six students from Mrs. Better’s class, shared information about Reader’s Workshop.
A balanced literacy program contains the following components:
Almond teachers - teach students. They do not teach Reader’s Workshop. One of the tools that they will use in building literacy skills with their students this year will be Reader’s Workshop. It is one structure that provides a framework to incorporate many of the components that develop effective readers, writers, speakers, and listeners.
The Reading Workshop model contains a variety of instructional strategies. Mini-lessons jump start the session to deliver direct, explicit instruction around an identified class need. While students read books of their choice independently, teachers may conference with different students to check in on fluency, comprehension, and book selection. Teachers might also identify small groups of students who need further instruction around a particular need. A teacher selected book, called an anchor text, might be read aloud over several weeks to students as a means to focus on particular reading skills. In the upper grades (3-6), students may participate in book clubs. Reader’s Workshop notebooks are utilized to assist students in digging deeper into their text and to ensure they are developing the necessary skills to write about what they’re reading.
We very much appreciated the thoughtful questions that arose from our parent community this morning. Some have been paraphrased below.
Q: Is there a balance between kids choosing their own books and the teacher making certain selections?
A: Yes. We understand that if children do not receive some guidance, they might select books that do not grow them as readers but instead keep them stagnant. The anchor text that is read together as a class is identified through the Reader’s Workshop curriculum. This book will be the same in each unit and within the grade level. The books that students read during independent time will be ones they choose. A teacher will confer with students to help determine if the book is appropriately challenging them. In addition, if a child appears to become stuck reading a series in a particular genre, the teacher would likely assist them in exploring other options. Finally, book talk books are being pulled from a collection that was ordered through our district. Teachers may or may not give students choice in their selection. It will depend on the circumstance, but will be balanced.
Q: Are students limited to reading books at a specific level?
A: No. The levels are determined through the F&P assessment. This one measure provides information about a child’s “instructional” level (A-Z). Some teachers have leveled their classroom libraries into baskets that have the letters identified. Other teachers have organized their books into genres and the books themselves have the letters indicated on them. This leveling system is intended to guide students in selecting books within a range...not just “that” letter. If a child shows interest in reading a book at a higher level as a result of the content, as long as the child doesn’t become frustrated or disheartened with navigating through the text, a child will not be prevented from reading a book in which they are interested in.
Q: Do all students know their levels? When will we, the parents, know them?
A: As a staff, we agreed to share out the F&P Levels with parents at the November Conferences so that we could provide a context around this singular data point. During the coffee, it became apparent that we do not have a consistent practice around how we communicate this information to students. We will be discussing this as a staff in the upcoming weeks. We DO NOT WANT students walking around thinking, “I am a level G.” Instead, the language we would like to encourage is, “My current instructional level in reading is near the ‘G’ range.” We will be certain to calibrate around these ideas and couple them with our heavy efforts in Growth Mindset work to ensure healthy self perceptions around reading.
Q: My child shared that one of the books their class started to read in book club contained content that was too mature for their age range. What is being done to safeguard against this?
A: We do have book club sets from the publisher that range from Level A (kindergarten) to Level Z (8th grade). Through this experience, we learned that some of the X, Y, Z books might contain mature content. As a result, we will be looking through these levels and identifying which books may fall into this category. We will be explicit in communicating this with families and their students so that if they wish not to read these books, they will be able to make that decision.
Q: When will children be taught “how” to read? Will there be intentional work around vocabulary development?
A: Reader’s Workshop is just one structure that will be utilized to foster a love of reading. In grades K-3, Almond is implementing another tool to support the teaching of phonics instruction - PhonoGraphix. Our teachers just completed the training on this strategy. This will be taught during WINN time because we do not want to reteach the alphabet’s letters and sounds to those who already know them, and we want to ensure we teach critical spelling patterns to those still needing this instruction. In grades 4-6, students have different rates of fluency (how smoothly they read) and comprehension (what they understand from the text). This can at times be hindered through a struggle with vocabulary. While research has proven that traditional vocabulary tests do not actually grow vocabulary, our state standards still emphasize the need to learn about prefixes, suffixes, root words and more. This will take place during word study time and will likely take place outside of the Reader’s Workshop structure.
Q: My 6th grader says they’re not doing Reader’s Workshop.
A: That is correct. The 6th graders began this school year with a Writer’s Workshop unit. They have been using the mini-lesson structure, drafting, revising, publishing (and more) to develop personal narratives. They are completing this unit in the next few weeks and will then engage in a Reader’s Workshop unit next. They will alternate between reading and writing throughout the year.
Q: Is every teacher and grade level then doing both Reader’s and Writer’s Workshop?
A: No. District wide, we are all working together to implement the Reader’s Workshop structure into our instruction around literacy. All teachers will be teaching writing, because it is a Common Core State Standard (CCSS). Some teachers have elected to incorporate Writer’s Workshop as well. This is where the art vs. the science of teaching comes in. In order to meet the many varying needs of students, teachers utilize a variety of practices to ensure students get what they need.
Q: My child is assigned homework to respond to their reading that doesn’t get marked. Is this to be expected?
A: Homework is a topic that elicits a wide range of perspectives from families. Some parents would prefer that there not be any homework, while some believe their children do not receive enough. When we do assign homework, we do so with the following things in mind. It should be able to be accomplished independently and should be reinforcing already learned information. If a child cannot complete their homework accordingly, then that will inform the teacher that additional instruction is needed. Some homework may be graded, other homework might not. If a teacher were to give feedback on every single output a student produces, they would not have adequate time to spend designing the learning. Therefore teachers are often strategic in identifying work on which feedback will be provided. If an assignment is for practice, that might not get marked up by the teacher. However, if a teacher is working with students on finalizing a writing piece associated with their reading, they will then likely provide specific guidance or feedback.
If you have a questions or concerns about Reader’s Workshop or literacy instruction, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your teacher.
PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW
INTERNATIONAL WALK TO SCHOOL DAY
PTA YEARBOOK COMMITTEE CHAIR NEEDED
WALKATHON & SILENT AUCTION
LAEF: WE’VE RAISED $1 MILLION!
S.O.A.R. CELEBRATIONS
(listed alphabetically by last name)
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
Why Parents Matter More Than Peers: Restoring A Healthy Balance in Adult-Child Relationships
SELPA 1 CAC Parent Education Panel with Special Education Administrators!
WANT TO SUBMIT SOMETHING TO THE THURSDAY WORD?
Send announcements to us at AlmondThursdayWord@
Quick Links…
School & Community News now found via Peachjar:
https://www.peachjar.com/
Almond Elementary School Website
Copyright © 2003-2016 Los Altos School District. All rights reserved.
ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
September 21, 2017
UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER
SCHOOL MESSAGE
In order to bring our Almond mission and vision to life, the Almond staff has renewed its pledge to honor the following Collective Commitments.
These promises manifest throughout each day as teachers work together as a team. While students are placed in homerooms, through our Thursday Early Release Collaboration days, we work intentionally to create a grade level team and school wide team mentality. The progress of a learner does not simply belong to the homeroom teacher, it is the collective responsibility of our entire staff.
At times homerooms may work together where teachers co-teach. Through WIIN & TIG, students may spend time in other classrooms to further certain skills, understandings, and content.
We are eager to partner with our parent community in this effort to foster a WE mentality. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s homeroom teacher, or Erika Benadom (Almond Principal), with your reflections and thoughts.
PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW
INTERNATIONAL WALK TO SCHOOL DAY
WALKATHON & SILENT AUCTION
LAEF: FOR EVERY CHILD IN EVERY GRADE IN ALL LASD SCHOOLS!
Did you know that your donation to LAEF supports STEM, arts, literacy, wellness and personalized learning NOW through June 2018? Here are some ways elementary students benefit from LAEF this school year.
Every TK-8th grade student in LASD will benefit from LAEF-funded programs, and that’s why our goal is 100% parent participation. The suggested donation per student is $1,200 (or $120 per month for 10 months). Every gift in any amount is appreciated.
Learn more & make a donation today at www.laefonline.org.
ABC (Asset Building Champion) Reading/ Project Cornerstone
S.O.A.R. CELEBRATIONS
(listed alphabetically by last name)
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
Please join us for our September SELPA 1 CAC Parent Education event.
Challenges of Dyslexia, Wed Sep 20, 7-9 PM, Santa Rita Elementary, Los Altos
Join Lindamood-Bell Center Director, Leila MacCurrach, for a conversation about how intensive instruction that builds the imagery-language foundation can enable students of all backgrounds and prior diagnoses to learn to read and comprehend to their potential. Lindamood-Bell's intensive, one-to- one, process-based instruction has been used to strengthen the sensory-cognitive functions needed for reading and comprehension. The method has been proven successful for individuals with learning challenges, including dyslexia, hyperlexia, ADHD, and ASD.
WANT TO SUBMIT SOMETHING TO THE THURSDAY WORD?
Send announcements to us at AlmondThursdayWord@
Quick Links…
School & Community News now found via Peachjar:
https://www.peachjar.com/
Almond Elementary School Website
Copyright © 2003-2016 Los Altos School District. All rights reserved.
ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
September 14, 2017
UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER
SCHOOL MESSAGE
In a few communications this year, we have shared a version of THIS document with you. It’s termed “Almond’s Golden Circle,” adopted from Simon Sinek’s work that emphasizes WHAT, HOW, WHY. It synthesizes what we believe are effective, proven practices to optimize learning. Through experience, we know that when students participate in instruction that balances exposure to diverse ability levels, while also carving out time to focus on specific needs, ALL children thrive.
Each student is part of a grade level homeroom. These homerooms were designed to create a classroom environment rich in diversity. For the last five weeks we have been focusing on establishing a strong sense of community in these base camps. Teachers and students have been developing strong relationships that will carry them through a year full of adventure.
In the next few weeks, each grade level will begin concentrated (or targeted) instruction during which students will receive support or extension on a specific area of need/mastery in language arts and/or mathematics. For the past two years we have called this “regrouping.”
Why not call it the same thing this year?
When using the term “regroup,” the focus is on rearranging students. When referring to this practice as concentrated (or targeted) instruction, the focus rightfully remains on the learning that will be achieved. The words that grown ups use in naming, often has little worth to children. Therefore we are going to use terms that support those we serve, our students.
Grades K thru 3:
W.I.N.N. - (pronounced “win”) - What I Need Now - Meeting the specific needs that a particular group of student share at a particular time around literacy and/or math.
Grades 4 thru 6:
T.I.G - (pronounced “tig”) - Targeted Instruction Groups - Meeting the specific needs that a particular group of students share at a particular time around literacy and/or math.
Why has it taken Almond over a month to get this going this year?
We learned last year that we need three things to be in place before supporting learners with WINN / TIG. 1) Strong homeroom foundations must be secured. 2) Effective communication to students and families must be in place about how we will be working together as a school staff. 3) Crystal clear clarity must exist in the needs and strengths of each student to effective determine how to target this focused instruction.
All of these groups will be fluid. This means that the support or extension that a child might need around one unit or topic of learning, might be different than the next. Each grade level will also have a slightly different approach or configuration to their WINN / TIG time. We will be closely monitoring the growth of all students through classroom assessments.
The Almond staff is committed to excellence. Your children’s success in learning is our primary concern. Not only do we want them to succeed in mastering the fundamentals around literacy and mathematics, we also want them to become deep thinkers who are able to articulate their ideas. Above all else, we want students to develop into remarkable human beings who are full of joy and able to contribute positively to the world.
Please look for a message in your homeroom/grade level teacher’s Friday email blast around specific start dates for WINN / TIG and for additional details.
PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW
PTA BACK TO SCHOOL REGISTRATION REMINDER
Of 396 families, 263 have completed this process - that’s a 66% completion rate. This is better than last week, but I still believe we can do way better than this. Please remember to do your Almond PTA Back to School registration available at this link Back To School • Page - Almond Elementary School. It is the best way to sign-up for the PTA, which is only $15. It is also the easiest way to sign-up for Bookwave, Birthday Book Club and buy discounted Spring Gala tickets. This is different than the Los Altos School District's InfoSnap registration that you completed.
ALMOND WALKATHON & SILENT AUCTION - OCTOBER 14
The Walkathon site is now live. Use this site to order t-shirts, register your child and sponsor your child. The site can also be shared to have friends and family sponsor your child in the walkathon. T-shirt orders are due by Sunday, September 17. Volunteers are an important part of making the walkathon a success. Please sign up here to volunteer. Also, please consider donating to the silent auction. Read more about the walkathon here.
SCHOOL SITE COUNCIL (SSC)
We had our first meeting yesterday, in the library, at 3:10pm. Here is the agenda that include the topics that were covered. Our next meeting is Wednesday, October 18th, at 3:10pm, in the library.
FROM MRS. SCHUBERT
Do you have any pony beads that your children have outgrown? TKers loves using these beads to strengthen their fine motor skills. If you have any extra beads taking up space in your house please bring them to room 2 or to the Almond Office. Thank you so much!
LAEF: For EVERY child in EVERY grade in ALL LASD Schools!
Did you know that your donation to LAEF supports STEM, arts, literacy, wellness and personalized learning NOW through June 2018? Here are some ways elementary students benefit from LAEF this school year.
Every TK-8th grade student in LASD will benefit from LAEF-funded programs, and that’s why our goal is 100% parent participation. The suggested donation per student is $1,200 (or $120 per month for 10 months). Every gift in any amount is appreciated. Learn more & make a donation today atwww.laefonline.org.
PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - REPEATED
[None at this time.]
S.O.A.R. CELEBRATIONS
(listed alphabetically by last name)
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
CAMP OPPORTUNITY
WANT TO SUBMIT SOMETHING TO THE THURSDAY WORD?
Send announcements to us at AlmondThursdayWord@
Quick Links…
School & Community News now found via Peachjar:
https://www.peachjar.com/
Almond Elementary School Website
Copyright © 2003-2016 Los Altos School District. All rights reserved.
ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
September 7, 2017
UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER
SCHOOL MESSAGE
In “Our How’s and Why’s” document shared with you earlier this school year, the following was detailed in one particular section.
Student Feedback
Learners who receive clear guidance regarding their progress know how to focus their efforts going forward.
…
•Multiple Measures - no one assessment will ever tell us everything we need to know about a child, thus we incorporate several to provide a comprehensive picture [of mastery and learning needs].
We will be using the data results from various assessments to inform our design of learning for all children.
ESGI and F&P results will be shared at parent conferences in November.
iReady printouts will be sent home with students on Friday, 9/15. Please note that this first administration of iReady is intended to set a baseline. It cannot be compared to the end of last year’s results. In the prior year, your child was at a different grade level and measured on different grade level standards. Comparing last year to this year is comparing apples to oranges. The next administration of iReady will be during January.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher, or Mrs. Benadom, regarding any questions about how we utilize data to support the design of instruction.
PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW
ONLY 60% COMPLETE - PTA BACK TO SCHOOL REGISTRATION
Of 396 families, 238 have completed this process - that’s a 60% completion rate. This is better than last week, but I still believe we can do way better than this. Please remember to do your Almond PTA Back to School registration available at THIS link before end of day on 9/20. This is different than the Los Altos School District's InfoSnap registration that you completed.
BIRTHDAY BOOK CLUB PTA CHAIR STILL NEEDED
This person works with the school librarian to coordinate the purchase and delivery of grade appropriate books to the students whose parents have opted to participate. The books are donated to the Almond library on behalf of the child's parents. Book selection is made by the school librarian.
READER’S WORKSHOP NEEDS YOU!!!
Across LASD our teachers are engaging students in Reader’s Workshop to create an enriching learning experience for children around literacy. As part of this initiative, LASD purchased books for our classrooms and our library. Jill Croft, Almond’s Literacy IST, needs some help to get these resources into the hands of kids and teachers. This is the help needed:
If you can lend a hand, please contact Jill directly at jcroft@lasdschools.org.
LAEF: For EVERY child in EVERY grade in ALL LASD Schools!
Did you know that your donation to LAEF supports STEM, arts, literacy, wellness and personalized learning NOW through June 2018? Here are some ways elementary students benefit from LAEF this school year: Literacy aides in 1st and 2nd grade, STEM and computer science teachers, Librarians and certified PE instructors, Plus music and art! Every TK-8th grade student in LASD will benefit from LAEF-funded programs, and that’s why our goal is 100% parent participation. The suggested donation per student is $1,200 (or $120 per month for 10 months). Every gift in any amount is appreciated. Learn more & make your tax-deductible donation today at www.laefonline.org.
PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - REPEATED
NOON DUTY @ ALMOND!
We’re currently leveraging the support of our kinder aides on the grade 1 - 6 blacktop at lunch until extended day starts on 9/11. This has afforded us added grown ups to support the safety of students. We will be operating on bare bones if we don’t find some able bodies to support supervision at lunch. I’ve tapped the high school - no luck. If any of you are able to lend an hour, even once a week, we’d love to have your assistance in supervising lunch activities from 11:55pm to 12:55pm. Please contact Mrs. Benadom if you’re interested.
S.O.A.R. CELEBRATIONS
(listed alphabetically by last name)
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
PARENT EDUCATION RE: SPECIAL EDUCATION
The Community Advisory Committee for SELPA 1 (Special Education Local Plan Area) is offering a variety of parent education and support for all learners. For more information, please visit their website at : http://www.selpa1cac.org/
**Almond Kindergarten Daisy Girl Scout Troop**
AN OPPORTUNITY TO LEND A HAND - Disaster and First Responder Awareness
WANT TO SUBMIT SOMETHING TO THE THURSDAY WORD?
Send announcements to us at AlmondThursdayWord@
Quick Links…
School & Community News now found via Peachjar:
https://www.peachjar.com/
Almond Elementary School Website
Copyright © 2003-2016 Los Altos School District. All rights reserved.
ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
August 31, 2017
UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER
SCHOOL MESSAGE
On September 18th, a very large portion of our parking lot will be inaccessible to make way for the solar panel project. There will be one row of parking that remains. Each spot in that row will be reserved for the following: nurse, handicap, auction winners, Art Docents, Living Classroom, Hot Lunch, traveling math & music teacher, and very few open staff spaces. There will be no parent parking.
We appreciate how inconvenient this is. We appreciate that this will add a bit of travel time to everyone’s morning routine. We appreciate that this is not ideal.
Our Almond staff has been preparing its own game plan for parking because none of us will have reserved spots and there will likely only be 3-5 spaces available for the ~50 of us to share. We’re scoping our neighborhood parking. We’ve reached out to families who live nearby to ask if we can borrow driveway parking for the 8 weeks of construction. And, we’re exploring carpool options.
It’s important that you begin thinking through your plan as well. If you live within walking distance, please consider walking during this project. If you live within biking distance, please consider biking. If you have friends that live near school, please inquire if they have driveway parking available for drop off and pick up.
Starting on Tuesday, 9/5, we will be gathering information in our homerooms regarding how each student got to school. We will be offering incentives each week for the top three classes with the highest "Walk or Wheel" percentages.
We recognize the challenge this inconvenience presents to all. We hope it also affords an opportunity to build some new relationships, practice our abilities to be flexible and patient...all for the ultimate purpose making this a greener world through Solar Energy.
PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW
DESPERATELY SEEKING HOT LUNCH VENDOR LIAISON - So that our hot lunch program can continue...
ALMOND SINGERS STARTS SOON
Almond Singers, under the direction of Mrs. Margaret Barnett, will have their first rehearsal Tuesday September 5th from 7:30am to 8:15am, in the Multi. If you'd like your student to become an Almond Singer, please sign-up through Back to School registration (BTS) or contact Sandrine Steciw atsandy94025@yahoo.com.
STILL REQUIRED - PTA BACK TO SCHOOL REGISTRATION - DEADLINE EXTENDED TO 9/20
Of 395 families, only 190 have completed this process, that’s a 48% completion rate. We can do better than that! Please remember to do your Almond PTA Back to School registration available at THIS link. This is different than the Los Altos School District's InfoSnap registration that you completed.
NOON DUTY @ ALMOND!
We’re currently leveraging the support of our kinder aides on the grade 1 - 6 blacktop at lunch until extended day starts on 9/11. This has afforded us added grown ups to support the safety of students. We will be operating on bare bones if we don’t find some able bodies to support supervision at lunch. I’ve tapped the high school - no luck. If any of you are able to lend an hour, even once a week, we’d love to have your assistance in supervising lunch activities from 11:55pm to 12:55pm. Please contact me if you’re interested.
PTA WALKATHON SILENT AUCTION CHAIR STILL NEEDED
Support needed to secure donations of items and parties for auction; set-up and run silent auction during the Walkathon event on 10/14/17 on the blacktop at Almond school. Please contact Rachel Harnish if interested.
THE ALMOND PTA NEEDS YOU - 165 members so far this year of 395 families, 41%. Let’s increase our participation!
The Almond Parent Teacher Association (PTA) welcomes you to the 2017-2018 school year and invites you to join our PTA. You can join via the online back to school process (click here) or pick up a PTA membership form in the Almond School Office. Your PTA membership includes discounts at Legoland, Aquarium of the Pacific, California Academy of Sciences, Google Express and more. By joining you will:
For more information about joining the Almond PTA, please contact Alix Apfelberg, PTA Membership Chair (alix_apfelberg@yhahoo.com, 650-245-6445)
Almond Walkathon - Save the Date
This year's walkathon is Saturday, October 14, 2017. It will be a fun day with music, silent auction, food, and, of course, walking. Please watch this space for a link to register, order t-shirts, pledge donations and volunteer. Please consider donating something for the silent auction (contact Stefanie Seinfeld). For all other walkathon questions, please contact Barbara or Suzanne.
PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - REPEATED
AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
**Almond Kindergarten Daisy Girl Scout Troop**
AN OPPORTUNITY TO LEND A HAND - Disaster and First Responder Awareness
WANT TO SUBMIT SOMETHING TO THE THURSDAY WORD?
Send announcements to us at AlmondThursdayWord@
Quick Links…
School & Community News now found via Peachjar:
https://www.peachjar.com/
Almond Elementary School Website
Copyright © 2003-2016 Los Altos School District. All rights reserved
11/13/24 10:34 PM