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LASD Solar Project

LASD Solar Project

Greetings Almond Community,

Homeroom placement letters were all emailed yesterday evening.

Almond’s outstanding staff is hard at work putting on the finishing touches in launching the 2017-18 school year.

If you pass by campus in the next few days to sneak a peak, you may notice something amiss in our parking lot. The trees have been removed. This was done in preparation of a district wide solar project.

The Los Altos School district is excited to do its part in preserving our environment (reducing our carbon footprint) by installing solar panels at all our school sites. We expect to save $175,000 or more annually on our utility bills as a result of being able to grandfather our current PG&E rate structure. In order to take advantage of this rate structure grandfathering we have a short window of opportunity—meaning the project must be completed before the end of the calendar year (December 31). The solar panels will be on shade structures and installed in school parking lots, except at Oak School where the structures will be installed on the play area blacktop.

Construction will begin across the district on September 18^th and continue for 8–10 weeks. Temporary construction fencing is scheduled to be installed on September 18 and all work and materials will be contained within the fenced area. Construction work will adhere to the noise and safety requirements of all local enforcement codes.

Traffic and parking will be impacted on and around the school sites during construction. We are working with police and traffic control departments to mitigate the impacts on the school neighborhoods. Where possible, we have made alternate parking arrangements. LASD has partnered with GreenTown Los Altos on plans to mitigate traffic. GreenTown is working with school PTAs on the design and implementation of WoW! - walk, bike, and carpool - encouragement programs.

The District is paying for this project out of its operating budget. No bond monies are being used.

Thursday Word August 24th

ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
August 24, 2017

UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER

Thursday, 8/24 - Picture Day Grades 4-6
Monday, 8/28 - Gr. 5/6, Bring Instruments to School
Thursday, 8/31 - Back to School Night
- 6:00pm - 6:40pm Classroom Visits (4-6)
  6:45pm - 7:00pm School Message in Multi (standing, no seats)
  7:05pm - 7:45pm Classroom Visits (TK-3)
Friday, 9/1
- Gr. 5/6, Bring Instruments to School
- Minimum Day (Dismissal @ 12:15pm for Grades 1-6, TK/K @ 12pm)
Monday, 9/4 - Holiday, No School
Wednesday, 9/20 - PTA General Meeting (Multi @ 8:30am)
Friday, 9/22 - LASD Staff Development Day, No School

SCHOOL MESSAGE

A hallmark of a successful relationship is - communication. It is a focus of the Los Altos School District to strengthen the connection between home and school through effective and efficient communication. Almond will be supporting this two way dialogue in the following ways.

Almond Twitter Feed
- On an almost daily basis, either the principal, and/or some teachers will share out happenings that take place at school through pictures and captions.
Thursday Word Email
- This is a collaborative effort between the school and PTA. There will always be a list of events, a succinct message from the school, as well as a variety of reminders of PTA happenings or school information.
Friday Homeroom Teacher Email Blasts
- Every teacher (or grade level) will send a brief email to your inbox on Fridays to share highlights from the prior week and/or “don’t forgets” for the week to follow.
Evidence of Student Learning (Friday Folders)
- In grades TK/K - 4, students will bring home student work in folders on Fridays (kinder may send them home daily for some time). In grades 5/6, students no longer use folders. Their work will be returned to them as it is reviewed. They will either be asked to keep it in their binders, or to take it home. Digital folders will also hold many of their learning artifacts. Feel free to ask them to share their progress with you.
School Coffees
- On a monthly basis, school staff members will make themselves available to the school community to share information about different initiatives within Almond and LASD. There will be a time for questions and a two way dialogue.
- Dates & Tentative Topics
  - Thursday, 8/31/2017, 8:45am, Multi - Mission, Vision, SOAR
  - Thursday, 9/28/2017, 8:45am, Multi - ELA Essential Standards / Reader’s Workshop
  - Thursday, 10/26/2017, 8:45am, Multi - New Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
  - Thursday, 11/30/2017, 8:45am, Multi - Evidence of Learning
  - Thursday, 12/14/2017, 8:45am, Multi - Math Essential Standards / Number Talks
  - Thursday, 1/25/2018, 8:45am, Multi - A Glance into Collaboration
  - Thursday, 2/15/2018, 8:45am, Multi - Measures of Learning
  - Thursday, 3/29/2018, 8:45am, Multi - Beyond Academics
  - Thursday, 4/26/2018, 8:45am, Multi - Application of Learning
  - Thursday, 5/31/2018, 8:45am, Multi - Reflections & Celebrations
School Site Council (SSC)
- Every school in the State of CA is required to convene this group. The intent is to involve both school staff and the parent community in carrying forward the Single Plan for Student Achievement. We look forward to parents joining us who are ready to roll up their sleeves in support of accomplishing our goals.
- Dates
  - Wednesday, September 13, 3:10pm, Library - Agenda TBD
  - Wednesday, October 18, 3:10pm, Library - Agenda TBD
  - Wednesday, January 3, 3:10pm, Library - Agenda TBD
  - March - Date/Agenda TBD
  - April - Date/Agenda TBD

PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW

WORK OPPORTUNITIES @ ALMOND

Two of our amazing staff members are embarking on new professional journeys; Joyce Musselman will now work full time for the Special Education office at the district office and Ricky Character is going to pursue a career in personal training. We are thrilled for them and they will be missed dearly at Almond.
This creates two vacancies; kindergarten aide and office clerk. If you’re interested in either, please let Mrs. Benadom know.
Also - still looking for noon duty support.

HOT LUNCH VENDOR LIAISON STILL NEEDED!
A Hot Lunch Volunteer Coordinator has been found for this. Thank you to that individual!!!!

Hot Lunch Vendor Liaison - communicate with Pasta Market on any issues that arise (including menu); stock lunchroom supplies; hangs weekly menu signs.

Please contact Rachel Harnish, rachelharnish@yahoo.com, Almond PTA President.

THE ALMOND PTA WANTS YOU!
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:

Support your child by bringing parents and teachers together to promote the education, health, safety and well-being of Almond students.
Support our teachers. The PTA coordinates room parents and classroom volunteers, and it pays for classroom supplies and instructional materials.
Support Almond families. The PTA publishes the Almond School Directory and organizes fun family events such as the Ice Cream Social, Walkabout, Science Fair, STEM Expo, International Feast, and the Halloween Carnival.
Support enrichment opportunities at Almond School. The PTA contributes to the Living Classroom Program, the Art Docent Program, and funds the Primary Grade Music Program.

For more information about joining the Almond PTA, please contact Alix Apfelberg, PTA Membership Chair (alix_apfelberg@yhahoo.com, 650-245-6445)

LAEF WELCOMES YOU TO THE 2017-18 SCHOOL YEAR!

Over the past few days you’ve been busy buying school supplies, filling out forms and helping your students settle into a new routine; maybe even a new school. We hope everyone’s year is off to a great start!
We at the Los Altos Educational Foundation (LAEF) are proud to partner with the District and PTAs at each school to provide a well-rounded education and we feel so fortunate to have a school district that cares so deeply about providing a wonderful education for each and every one of our kids. Whether your child’s favorite part of the day is PE, STEM, a Junior High elective or just having a little extra attention from his or her teacher, your donations to LAEF help make that possible.
We hope you will join us in supporting these programs at the suggested level of $1,200 per child. Our goal is $3.7 million and 100% participation from our parent community, so every gift in any amount is appreciated. If you missed the link in the back to school forms, please head towww.LAEFOnline.org to make your donation to LAEF.

Become a LIVING CLASSROOM docent... share your love of nature with kids!

It's time to harvest seeds from heirloom tomatoes, plant our winter wheat and veggies, search the schoolyard for animal homes, and learning about Native California Indian uses of plants! If you like all those things and more, please consider becoming a Living Classroom docent! Living Classroom is looking for docents to help deliver hands-on garden-based lessons to the students of the Los Altos School District. No experience necessary as we provide all the training needed! Our Fall Docent Training will take place on Monday mornings from 9am-Noon from Sep. 11th – Oct. 16th (please see our Fall training flyer for locations).
Want to learn more about our program? Please consider attending one of our upcoming Informational Meetings from 10-11am on Monday 8/21 or Monday 8/28 at the Los Altos School District iLearn Studio, 201 Covington Road, Los Altos and/or visit our website at www.living-classroom.org.
Questions? Email us at livingclassroom@lasdschools.org or call (650) 947-1103.

PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - REPEATED

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS

Are you looking for interesting programs after school right here at Almond?
Take a look at the options we offer including Sports, Technology, Design, Art and Music
*NEW* offerings this Fall –Interior Design, Martial Arts, Jr Chefs Cooking, Lacrosse and Gymnastics. We also have a new Tennis offering.
It’s simple to sign up! Go to the After School Programs schedule on the Almond website.
Please contact Jennel Massey with any questions. Also if you missed the end of year Survey and have feedback on how we can continue to improve the after school offerings, please complete it HERE!

PTA BACK TO SCHOOL REGISTRATION
Welcome Back Parents! 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.

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

[none at this time]

WANT TO SUBMIT SOMETHING TO THE THURSDAY WORD?

Send announcements to us at AlmondThursdayWord@lasdschools.org by 12:00pm Monday, for that week's Word. Keep your announcements brief and, if applicable, send a PDF version of any flyer or additional information to be posted on the website.

Quick Links…

School & Community News now found via Peachjar:

https://www.peachjar.com/index.php?a=28&b=138&region=53999

Almond Elementary School Website

ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
August 24, 2017

UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER

Thursday, 8/24 - Picture Day Grades 4-6
Monday, 8/28 - Gr. 5/6, Bring Instruments to School
Thursday, 8/31 - Back to School Night
- 6:00pm - 6:40pm Classroom Visits (4-6)
  6:45pm - 7:00pm School Message in Multi (standing, no seats)
  7:05pm - 7:45pm Classroom Visits (TK-3)
Friday, 9/1
- Gr. 5/6, Bring Instruments to School
- Minimum Day (Dismissal @ 12:15pm for Grades 1-6, TK/K @ 12pm)
Monday, 9/4 - Holiday, No School
Wednesday, 9/20 - PTA General Meeting (Multi @ 8:30am)
Friday, 9/22 - LASD Staff Development Day, No School

SCHOOL MESSAGE

Almond Twitter Feed
- On an almost daily basis, either the principal, and/or some teachers will share out happenings that take place at school through pictures and captions.
Thursday Word Email
- This is a collaborative effort between the school and PTA. There will always be a list of events, a succinct message from the school, as well as a variety of reminders of PTA happenings or school information.
Friday Homeroom Teacher Email Blasts
- Every teacher (or grade level) will send a brief email to your inbox on Fridays to share highlights from the prior week and/or “don’t forgets” for the week to follow.
Evidence of Student Learning (Friday Folders)
- In grades TK/K - 4, students will bring home student work in folders on Fridays (kinder may send them home daily for some time). In grades 5/6, students no longer use folders. Their work will be returned to them as it is reviewed. They will either be asked to keep it in their binders, or to take it home. Digital folders will also hold many of their learning artifacts. Feel free to ask them to share their progress with you.
School Coffees
- On a monthly basis, school staff members will make themselves available to the school community to share information about different initiatives within Almond and LASD. There will be a time for questions and a two way dialogue.
- Dates & Tentative Topics
  - Thursday, 8/31/2017, 8:45am, Multi - Mission, Vision, SOAR
  - Thursday, 9/28/2017, 8:45am, Multi - ELA Essential Standards / Reader’s Workshop
  - Thursday, 10/26/2017, 8:45am, Multi - New Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
  - Thursday, 11/30/2017, 8:45am, Multi - Evidence of Learning
  - Thursday, 12/14/2017, 8:45am, Multi - Math Essential Standards / Number Talks
  - Thursday, 1/25/2018, 8:45am, Multi - A Glance into Collaboration
  - Thursday, 2/15/2018, 8:45am, Multi - Measures of Learning
  - Thursday, 3/29/2018, 8:45am, Multi - Beyond Academics
  - Thursday, 4/26/2018, 8:45am, Multi - Application of Learning
  - Thursday, 5/31/2018, 8:45am, Multi - Reflections & Celebrations
School Site Council (SSC)
- Every school in the State of CA is required to convene this group. The intent is to involve both school staff and the parent community in carrying forward the Single Plan for Student Achievement. We look forward to parents joining us who are ready to roll up their sleeves in support of accomplishing our goals.
- Dates
  - Wednesday, September 13, 3:10pm, Library - Agenda TBD
  - Wednesday, October 18, 3:10pm, Library - Agenda TBD
  - Wednesday, January 3, 3:10pm, Library - Agenda TBD
  - March - Date/Agenda TBD
  - April - Date/Agenda TBD

PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW

WORK OPPORTUNITIES @ ALMOND

Two of our amazing staff members are embarking on new professional journeys; Joyce Musselman will now work full time for the Special Education office at the district office and Ricky Character is going to pursue a career in personal training. We are thrilled for them and they will be missed dearly at Almond.
This creates two vacancies; kindergarten aide and office clerk. If you’re interested in either, please let Mrs. Benadom know.
Also - still looking for noon duty support.

HOT LUNCH VENDOR LIAISON STILL NEEDED!
A Hot Lunch Volunteer Coordinator has been found for this. Thank you to that individual!!!!

Hot Lunch Vendor Liaison - communicate with Pasta Market on any issues that arise (including menu); stock lunchroom supplies; hangs weekly menu signs.

Please contact Rachel Harnish, rachelharnish@yahoo.com, Almond PTA President.

Support your child by bringing parents and teachers together to promote the education, health, safety and well-being of Almond students.
Support our teachers. The PTA coordinates room parents and classroom volunteers, and it pays for classroom supplies and instructional materials.
Support Almond families. The PTA publishes the Almond School Directory and organizes fun family events such as the Ice Cream Social, Walkabout, Science Fair, STEM Expo, International Feast, and the Halloween Carnival.
Support enrichment opportunities at Almond School. The PTA contributes to the Living Classroom Program, the Art Docent Program, and funds the Primary Grade Music Program.

For more information about joining the Almond PTA, please contact Alix Apfelberg, PTA Membership Chair (alix_apfelberg@yhahoo.com, 650-245-6445)

LAEF WELCOMES YOU TO THE 2017-18 SCHOOL YEAR!

Over the past few days you’ve been busy buying school supplies, filling out forms and helping your students settle into a new routine; maybe even a new school. We hope everyone’s year is off to a great start!
We at the Los Altos Educational Foundation (LAEF) are proud to partner with the District and PTAs at each school to provide a well-rounded education and we feel so fortunate to have a school district that cares so deeply about providing a wonderful education for each and every one of our kids. Whether your child’s favorite part of the day is PE, STEM, a Junior High elective or just having a little extra attention from his or her teacher, your donations to LAEF help make that possible.
We hope you will join us in supporting these programs at the suggested level of $1,200 per child. Our goal is $3.7 million and 100% participation from our parent community, so every gift in any amount is appreciated. If you missed the link in the back to school forms, please head towww.LAEFOnline.org to make your donation to LAEF.

Become a LIVING CLASSROOM docent... share your love of nature with kids!

It's time to harvest seeds from heirloom tomatoes, plant our winter wheat and veggies, search the schoolyard for animal homes, and learning about Native California Indian uses of plants! If you like all those things and more, please consider becoming a Living Classroom docent! Living Classroom is looking for docents to help deliver hands-on garden-based lessons to the students of the Los Altos School District. No experience necessary as we provide all the training needed! Our Fall Docent Training will take place on Monday mornings from 9am-Noon from Sep. 11th – Oct. 16th (please see our Fall training flyer for locations).
Want to learn more about our program? Please consider attending one of our upcoming Informational Meetings from 10-11am on Monday 8/21 or Monday 8/28 at the Los Altos School District iLearn Studio, 201 Covington Road, Los Altos and/or visit our website at www.living-classroom.org.
Questions? Email us at livingclassroom@lasdschools.org or call (650) 947-1103.

PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - REPEATED

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS

Are you looking for interesting programs after school right here at Almond?
Take a look at the options we offer including Sports, Technology, Design, Art and Music
*NEW* offerings this Fall –Interior Design, Martial Arts, Jr Chefs Cooking, Lacrosse and Gymnastics. We also have a new Tennis offering.
It’s simple to sign up! Go to the After School Programs schedule on the Almond website.
Please contact Jennel Massey with any questions. Also if you missed the end of year Survey and have feedback on how we can continue to improve the after school offerings, please complete it HERE!

[none at this time]

WANT TO SUBMIT SOMETHING TO THE THURSDAY WORD?

Quick Links…

School & Community News now found via Peachjar:

https://www.peachjar.com/index.php?a=28&b=138&region=53999

Almond Elementary School Website

Thursday Word August 17th

ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
August 17, 2017

UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER

Thursday, 8/17
- First Morning Assembly (8:30am, Blacktop)
- Early Release (TK/K @ 12pm, Gr. 1/2 @ 1:25pm, Gr. 3-6 @ 1:45pm)
Friday, 8/18
- New Family Orientation led by Principal (Multi, 6:30pm)
- Back to School Ice Cream Social (Blacktop, 7pm)
Monday, 8/21 - Solar Eclipse
Wednesday, 8/23 - Picture Day Grades TK-3
Thursday, 8/24 - Picture Day Grades 4-6
Thursday, 8/31 - Back to School Night
- 6:00pm - 6:40pm Classroom Visits (4-6)
  6:45pm - 7:00pm School Message in Multi (standing, no seats)
  7:05pm - 7:45pm Classroom Visits (TK-3)
Friday, 9/1 - Minimum Day (Dismissal @ 12:15pm for Grades 1-6, TK/K @ 12pm)
Monday, 9/4 - Holiday, No School
Wednesday, 9/20 - PTA General Meeting (Multi @ 8:30am)
Friday, 9/22 - LASD Staff Development Day, No School

SCHOOL MESSAGE

And just like that...the 2017-18 school year is underway!

It was wonderful to reconnect with many of you at the School Coffee yesterday and to meet some of our new families. Thank you to all the PTA leaders who set up the multi to welcome neighbors and friends. Together, we will make this a glorious year.

On the first day of school students and teachers were busy establishing new routines and reviewing expectations. We have a common language around this; SOAR (Solve problems. Own my learning. Always make good choices. Respect myself and others.) Time in homerooms was also dedicated to building relationships and learning about each other. Our student population contains so much beauty in its diversity; differing backgrounds, languages, cultures, and more. We are very fortunate to weave together into a tapestry that is so vibrant and magnificent.

The Almond Staff hopes you can join us this morning for our first Thursday Assembly at 8:30am. We have something special planned to kick off this year.

Finally - We humbly ask for your support with a few operational logistics to safeguard our students’ safety.

All Parents - Please remind your children that if they arrive prior to 8:15am, it is important that they (and you, if you’re with them) wait in the rotunda in the front of school and not advance onto campus. We offer supervision starting at 8:15am and need to keep the campus clear until then.
All TK/Kinder Parents - It seems so tempting to park your car in the drive through to pick up your child. Please don’t. This is a fire lane and it cannot be blocked. Please park in the parking lot or neighborhood.
All TK/Kinder Parents - Please do not approach the classrooms until the 12pm bell rings. Please wait in the rotunda. That is the round area in the front of the school directly outside of the multi. We ask this of you so we may keep the blacktops clear until dismissal.
Parents in Grades 1 & 2 - Please wait in the rotunda until your student comes to you once the bell has rung. The teacher will walk them down to the front of school. If you remain at school until the next dismissal, please supervise your own children. Please support your child in a quiet activity. Please do not allow them to play tag, chase, etc…
Parents in Grades 3 thru 6 - Please wait in the rotunda until your student comes to you once the bell has rung. Your child is a big kid now and will find you.
To All Parents - Our play structures are only available to students during school hours. Structures are closed immediately after school and reopen at 3:30pm. This is due to liability issues. The campus must be cleared before children begin playing under your supervision.
To All Parents - If using the drive through to pick up your child, please do not exit your car under any circumstances. This is a fire lane and we may not have vehicles in the drive through.
Dogs are not permitted on campus during school hours unless part of the instructional program and prior arrangements secured.
To report an absences call 917-5454, or email almondsecretary@lasdschools.org.
Remind your children that our sidewalks are for pedestrians. Please ask them to walk their bikes and scooters as soon as they step onto the sidewalk.

Thank you very much for your ongoing support.

PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS

Are you looking for interesting programs after school right here at Almond?
Take a look at the options we offer including Sports, Technology, Design, Art and Music
*NEW* offerings this Fall –Interior Design, Martial Arts, Jr Chefs Cooking, Lacrosse and Gymnastics. We also have a new Tennis offering.
It’s simple to sign up! Go to the After School Programs schedule on the Almond website.
Please contact Jennel Massey with any questions. Also if you missed the end of year Survey and have feedback on how we can continue to improve the after school offerings, please complete it HERE!

PTA COMMITTEE CHAIRS NEEDED!!!!

Hot Lunch Volunteer Coordinator - schedule parent volunteers for daily Hot Lunch service; put out the schedule before each Fall 2017 semester and Spring 2018 semester (shift reminders automated); educate new parent volunteers on hot lunch rules; recruit parent volunteers as needed for shifts.
Hot Lunch Vendor Liaison - communicate with Pasta Market on any issues that arise (including menu); stock lunchroom supplies; hangs weekly menu signs.
Walkathon Silent Auction Chair - 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.
Yearbook Editor - take or secure photos of students in many activities throughout the year and official school photos; use memorybook.com software to organize the yearbook; add original artwork, messaging to pages to customize; organize delivery before the end of the school year.

Please contact Rachel Harnish, rachelharnish@yahoo.com, Almond PTA President.

NOON DUTY JOB OPPORTUNITY
We are in need of lunch supervision support for grades 1 - 6. If you would like to help us out from 12pm - 1pm and get paid a whopping $17.61/hour, please let me know. We need support every day of the week but will take any time you’re willing to spare. Also, if you know of a friend who might be interested in such an opportunity, please have them contact me. THANKS!

PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - REPEATED

[none at this time]

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

[none at this time]

WANT TO SUBMIT SOMETHING TO THE THURSDAY WORD?

Quick Links…

School & Community News now found via Peachjar:

https://www.peachjar.com/index.php?a=28&b=138&region=53999

Almond Elementary School Website

ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
August 17, 2017

UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER

Thursday, 8/17
- First Morning Assembly (8:30am, Blacktop)
- Early Release (TK/K @ 12pm, Gr. 1/2 @ 1:25pm, Gr. 3-6 @ 1:45pm)
Friday, 8/18
- New Family Orientation led by Principal (Multi, 6:30pm)
- Back to School Ice Cream Social (Blacktop, 7pm)
Monday, 8/21 - Solar Eclipse
Wednesday, 8/23 - Picture Day Grades TK-3
Thursday, 8/24 - Picture Day Grades 4-6
Thursday, 8/31 - Back to School Night
- 6:00pm - 6:40pm Classroom Visits (4-6)
  6:45pm - 7:00pm School Message in Multi (standing, no seats)
  7:05pm - 7:45pm Classroom Visits (TK-3)
Friday, 9/1 - Minimum Day (Dismissal @ 12:15pm for Grades 1-6, TK/K @ 12pm)
Monday, 9/4 - Holiday, No School
Wednesday, 9/20 - PTA General Meeting (Multi @ 8:30am)
Friday, 9/22 - LASD Staff Development Day, No School

SCHOOL MESSAGE

And just like that...the 2017-18 school year is underway!

The Almond Staff hopes you can join us this morning for our first Thursday Assembly at 8:30am. We have something special planned to kick off this year.

Finally - We humbly ask for your support with a few operational logistics to safeguard our students’ safety.

All Parents - Please remind your children that if they arrive prior to 8:15am, it is important that they (and you, if you’re with them) wait in the rotunda in the front of school and not advance onto campus. We offer supervision starting at 8:15am and need to keep the campus clear until then.
All TK/Kinder Parents - It seems so tempting to park your car in the drive through to pick up your child. Please don’t. This is a fire lane and it cannot be blocked. Please park in the parking lot or neighborhood.
All TK/Kinder Parents - Please do not approach the classrooms until the 12pm bell rings. Please wait in the rotunda. That is the round area in the front of the school directly outside of the multi. We ask this of you so we may keep the blacktops clear until dismissal.
Parents in Grades 1 & 2 - Please wait in the rotunda until your student comes to you once the bell has rung. The teacher will walk them down to the front of school. If you remain at school until the next dismissal, please supervise your own children. Please support your child in a quiet activity. Please do not allow them to play tag, chase, etc…
Parents in Grades 3 thru 6 - Please wait in the rotunda until your student comes to you once the bell has rung. Your child is a big kid now and will find you.
To All Parents - Our play structures are only available to students during school hours. Structures are closed immediately after school and reopen at 3:30pm. This is due to liability issues. The campus must be cleared before children begin playing under your supervision.
To All Parents - If using the drive through to pick up your child, please do not exit your car under any circumstances. This is a fire lane and we may not have vehicles in the drive through.
Dogs are not permitted on campus during school hours unless part of the instructional program and prior arrangements secured.
To report an absences call 917-5454, or email almondsecretary@lasdschools.org.
Remind your children that our sidewalks are for pedestrians. Please ask them to walk their bikes and scooters as soon as they step onto the sidewalk.

Thank you very much for your ongoing support.

PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS

Are you looking for interesting programs after school right here at Almond?
Take a look at the options we offer including Sports, Technology, Design, Art and Music
*NEW* offerings this Fall –Interior Design, Martial Arts, Jr Chefs Cooking, Lacrosse and Gymnastics. We also have a new Tennis offering.
It’s simple to sign up! Go to the After School Programs schedule on the Almond website.
Please contact Jennel Massey with any questions. Also if you missed the end of year Survey and have feedback on how we can continue to improve the after school offerings, please complete it HERE!

PTA COMMITTEE CHAIRS NEEDED!!!!

Hot Lunch Volunteer Coordinator - schedule parent volunteers for daily Hot Lunch service; put out the schedule before each Fall 2017 semester and Spring 2018 semester (shift reminders automated); educate new parent volunteers on hot lunch rules; recruit parent volunteers as needed for shifts.
Hot Lunch Vendor Liaison - communicate with Pasta Market on any issues that arise (including menu); stock lunchroom supplies; hangs weekly menu signs.
Walkathon Silent Auction Chair - 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.
Yearbook Editor - take or secure photos of students in many activities throughout the year and official school photos; use memorybook.com software to organize the yearbook; add original artwork, messaging to pages to customize; organize delivery before the end of the school year.

Please contact Rachel Harnish, rachelharnish@yahoo.com, Almond PTA President.

PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - REPEATED

[none at this time]

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

[none at this time]

WANT TO SUBMIT SOMETHING TO THE THURSDAY WORD?

Quick Links…

School & Community News now found via Peachjar:

https://www.peachjar.com/index.php?a=28&b=138&region=53999

Almond Elementary School Website

Thursday Word August 8th

ALMOND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Welcome to 2017-18
August 4, 2017

SCHOOL MESSAGE

We are very excited to welcome you all back on August 16th! It will be glorious to reconnect, hear about your summers, and catch up.

This year, our focus will be to “Bring It All Together” through “Mission Possible.” Over the past four years, our district and school have invested a great deal in building the professional expertise of our education teams. This document provides a synthesis of that work. We are positioned and ready to focus our efforts on bringing our Almond mission, vision, and goals to life to meet the LASD goal to “Meet the individual learning needs of ALL students.”

Please note the following adjustment in our morning community assemblies - they will take place on Thursday mornings this year (not Fridays). The reason for this is because a change was made to our music schedule for 4th - 6th grade. This requires coordination across the district and our music days this year are Mondays and Fridays. If we continued our music time on Fridays, that would cut out 15 minutes of music instruction each week. And, that’s not best for kids. As a staff we brainstormed how to adjust and our best solution was to move morning assemblies to Thursday mornings. We treasure this time together because it affords us the opportunity to build school culture through common messaging. As always, we welcome parents to join in the fun on Thursdaymornings from 8:30am - 8:45am.

We have been contacted by some of your regarding the CAASPP reports. This past spring, students in grades 3 - 6 took the state standardized assessment. Results are trickling into the district office. There is a requirement that the parent copy be mailed home within 20 days of the receipt of the LASD copy. The reports have not all come at once. This occurred last year as well. It is possible that you will receive a report for one of your children before the rest. Some reports last year didn’t arrive until December.

Enjoy the remaining week. We eagerly anticipate your return. :-)

DETAILS REGARDING THE 2017-18 SCHOOL YEAR

STAFFING UPDATES

Sarah Johnston has taken a job in another district. We wish her the very best.
Jessica Saretsky is moving back east due to a wonderful job opportunity for her husband. It was such a blessing to have had Jessica on staff for four years. She will be dearly missed.
Rachel Gassner will be partnering with Rachel Doblick to teach 2nd Grade.
Joan O’Dell will be joining the kinder team.
Anju Vriksha will be joining the 6th grade team.

STAFF LISTING
Transitional Kindergarten: Lisa Schubert
Kindergarten: Leanne Kridl, Laurie Lamb, Joan O’Dell
First Grade: Jenny Eldridge, Savanna Goltzer, Samantha Nguyen
Second Grade: Rachel Doblick, Rachel Gassner
Third Grade: Sarah Hall, Joann Martinez, Tammy Reilly
Fourth Grade: Annie Daggett, Kelsey Greene, Jenny Wishnack
Fifth Grade: Laura Better, Vicki Burke, Kaitlyn Pasket
Sixth Grade: Allison Aubrey, Jasen Stuart, Anju Vrikshay
STEM Instructional Support Teacher: Beth Leach
Literacy Instructional Support Teacher: Jill Croft
PE Teachers: Mary Alber (TK/K), Doug Core (1-6)
ELD Teacher: Jessica Mountz
RSP Teacher: Melissa Powell
Speech Teacher: Julie Chen
School Psychologist: Kristin Clouser
Office Staff: Jane Sanders, Joyce Musselman
Custodial Staff: Manny Casino, Manuel Vejar
Technology Specialist: Sauro Mangianelli
Librarian: Carla Schick

DISTRICT INFOSNAP – Online Registration
Please look for an email from Registrar@lasdk8.org with instructions about completing the InfoSnap Online Registration. It is recommended that you addregistrar@lasdk8.org to your contacts to prevent the email from going into spam folders.
LASD InfoSnap registration is not the same thing as the PTA Back to School System. You must complete BOTH.

PTA BACK TO SCHOOL SYSTEM ONLINE THIS TUESDAY!
Complete your family’s registration in the back to school system any time between August 8th and September 2nd. Log in via THIS link.

SCHOOL START and END TIMES
Transitional Kinder, M/T/W/F = 8:45am – 2:25pm*, Th = 8:45am - 1:30pm*
Kindergarten, M/T/W/F = 8:30am – 2:30pm*, Th = 8:30am - 1:15pm*
Grades 1 & 2, M/T/W/F = 8:30am – 2:40pm*, Th = 8:30am - 1:25pm
Grades 3 thru 6, M/T/W/F = 8:30am – 3:00pm*, Th = 8:30am - 1:45pm
*From 8/16 – 9/11 TK and Kinder will dismiss at 12pm to allow students a transition period to extended day as well as an opportunity for teachers to assess students and collaborate with team members to ensure your child’s success.
Please note that all end times have been changed since the 2016-17 school year. This was done to increase lunch to a 45 minute time block for students.
Here is a link to a file you can download and print.

UPCOMING DATES

Friday, 8/11 - Homeroom Assignment Letters
Sunday, 8/13, 5pm - New Family Orientation led by PTA
Monday, 8/14, 5pm - New Family Orientation led by PTA
Tuesday, 8/15, 10:30am - TK Bear Party
Tuesday, 8/15, 1pm - Kinder Lemonade Party
Wednesday, 8/16 - First Day of School, Back to School Coffee (8:30am)
Thursday, 8/17, 8:30am - First Morning Assembly
Friday, 8/18, 6:30pm - New Family Orientation led by Principal
Friday, 8/18, 7pm - Back to School Ice Cream Social
8/23 & 8/24 - Pictures Days (details to follow)
Thursday, 8/31 - Back to School Night (details to follow)

Homeroom Assignment Letters will be emailed to you on Friday, August 11th.

Hot Lunch – Our vendor will be Pasta Market. All entrees are in compliance with California SB12 and the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) regulations, regarding portion sizes, calories, fat content, and sugar content for elementary schools. Registration and ordering will open on August 8th at this link [https://pastamarket.boonli.com]. The school password is “AES181”. The first ordering deadline will be midnight on Sunday, 8/13.

First Day of School & Back to School Coffee - Wednesday, August 16th, 8:30am
Once your child is in class, please join the PTA for coffee and snacks in the multi. Learn about Almond events, sign up to volunteer, and catch up with friends!

New Family Orientation - Friday, August 18th, 6:30pm – 6:55pm
All families new to Almond (kindergarten and others) are invited to join Principal Benadom and the PTA for a brief presentation, Q&A session in the multi.

Back to School Ice Cream Social - Friday, August 18th, 7pm
All Almond families are invited to the Almond playground for FREE ice cream sundaes served by the Almond PTA.

Back to School Night – Thursday, August 31st
The time schedule will be divided by grade levels and communicated the first week of school.

WANT TO SUBMIT SOMETHING TO THE THURSDAY WORD?
Send announcements to us at AlmondThursdayWord@lasdschools.org by 12:00pm Monday, for that week's Word. Keep your announcements brief and, if applicable, send a PDF version of any flyer or additional information to be posted on the website.
Quick Links…
School & Community News now found via Peachjar:
https://www.peachjar.com/index.php?a=28&b=138&region=53999
LASD News
Almond Elementary School Website
Copyright © 2003-2013 Los Altos School District. All rights reserved.

ALMOND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Welcome to 2017-18
August 4, 2017

SCHOOL MESSAGE

We are very excited to welcome you all back on August 16th! It will be glorious to reconnect, hear about your summers, and catch up.

Enjoy the remaining week. We eagerly anticipate your return. :-)

DETAILS REGARDING THE 2017-18 SCHOOL YEAR

STAFFING UPDATES

Sarah Johnston has taken a job in another district. We wish her the very best.
Jessica Saretsky is moving back east due to a wonderful job opportunity for her husband. It was such a blessing to have had Jessica on staff for four years. She will be dearly missed.
Rachel Gassner will be partnering with Rachel Doblick to teach 2nd Grade.
Joan O’Dell will be joining the kinder team.
Anju Vriksha will be joining the 6th grade team.

PTA BACK TO SCHOOL SYSTEM ONLINE THIS TUESDAY!
Complete your family’s registration in the back to school system any time between August 8th and September 2nd. Log in via THIS link.

UPCOMING DATES

Friday, 8/11 - Homeroom Assignment Letters
Sunday, 8/13, 5pm - New Family Orientation led by PTA
Monday, 8/14, 5pm - New Family Orientation led by PTA
Tuesday, 8/15, 10:30am - TK Bear Party
Tuesday, 8/15, 1pm - Kinder Lemonade Party
Wednesday, 8/16 - First Day of School, Back to School Coffee (8:30am)
Thursday, 8/17, 8:30am - First Morning Assembly
Friday, 8/18, 6:30pm - New Family Orientation led by Principal
Friday, 8/18, 7pm - Back to School Ice Cream Social
8/23 & 8/24 - Pictures Days (details to follow)
Thursday, 8/31 - Back to School Night (details to follow)

Homeroom Assignment Letters will be emailed to you on Friday, August 11th.

Back to School Ice Cream Social - Friday, August 18th, 7pm
All Almond families are invited to the Almond playground for FREE ice cream sundaes served by the Almond PTA.

Back to School Night – Thursday, August 31st
The time schedule will be divided by grade levels and communicated the first week of school.

Thursday Word August 4th

ALMOND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Welcome to 2017-18
August 4, 2017

SCHOOL MESSAGE

We are very excited to welcome you all back on August 16th! It will be glorious to reconnect, hear about your summers, and catch up.

Enjoy the remaining week. We eagerly anticipate your return. :-)

DETAILS REGARDING THE 2017-18 SCHOOL YEAR

STAFFING UPDATES

Sarah Johnston has taken a job in another district. We wish her the very best.
Jessica Saretsky is moving back east due to a wonderful job opportunity for her husband. It was such a blessing to have had Jessica on staff for four years. She will be dearly missed.
Rachel Gassner will be partnering with Rachel Doblick to teach 2nd Grade.
Joan O’Dell will be joining the kinder team.
Anju Vriksha will be joining the 6th grade team.

PTA BACK TO SCHOOL SYSTEM ONLINE THIS TUESDAY!
Complete your family’s registration in the back to school system any time between August 8th and September 2nd. Log in via THIS link.

UPCOMING DATES

Friday, 8/11 - Homeroom Assignment Letters
Sunday, 8/13, 5pm - New Family Orientation led by PTA
Monday, 8/14, 5pm - New Family Orientation led by PTA
Tuesday, 8/15, 10:30am - TK Bear Party
Tuesday, 8/15, 1pm - Kinder Lemonade Party
Wednesday, 8/16 - First Day of School, Back to School Coffee (8:30am)
Thursday, 8/17, 8:30am - First Morning Assembly
Friday, 8/18, 6:30pm - New Family Orientation led by Principal
Friday, 8/18, 7pm - Back to School Ice Cream Social
8/23 & 8/24 - Pictures Days (details to follow)
Thursday, 8/31 - Back to School Night (details to follow)

Homeroom Assignment Letters will be emailed to you on Friday, August 11th.

Back to School Ice Cream Social - Friday, August 18th, 7pm
All Almond families are invited to the Almond playground for FREE ice cream sundaes served by the Almond PTA.

Back to School Night – Thursday, August 31st
The time schedule will be divided by grade levels and communicated the first week of school.

Thursday Word June 8th

ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
June 8, 2017

UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER

Thursday, 6/8
- Last Day of School
- 6th Grade Promotion (multi doors open @ 8:45am, ceremony @ 9am)
- MINIMUM DAY (school starts *8:30am* and ends at *11:30am*)

SCHOOL MESSAGE

Have a wonderful summer!

PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW

SCHOOL SUPPLIES FOR 2017-2018

Last chance to order for FREE school delivery! You can quickly and easily order your supplies for next year!
Order by June 10th for DISCOUNTED PRICE and FREE school delivery, OR order by July 12th for home delivery (shipping charges apply).
School-Pak is the simple way to shop for school supplies. You'll enjoy brand name products you know and trust, pre-packaged kits that meet teacher approved lists, and easy payment options.
Please email Deidre Caldbeck at dhollars@gmail.com if you have any questions.

BE AN ALMOND NEW FAMILY AMBASSADOR
Joining Almond with children who are older than kindergarten can be intimidating, especially coming from another part of the US or another country, and we would like to help make it less so. Our community is becoming more and more diverse, in large part because so many people are moving here from the other parts of the globe, but that makes understanding and integration even more challenging. As part of my PTA New Families role, I am hoping to recruit some families who are willing to be resources for families who are new to Almond this coming fall, with children in grades 1 to 6. We will provide the new folks with a "frequently asked questions" guide, and I will offer to answer questions along with the amazing Almond office team, but it would be great to match them up with a family they can email or call with extra questions, ideally in their native language and/or with children in the same sort of grades. If you are willing to be an Almond New Family Ambassador, please email me on zsofip@hotmail.com. Please include your name, the grades of your children in 2017-18, and -- if applicable -- which other language(s) you speak/where you are originally from. Thanks in advance! Zsofia Puszta-McIntyre

PTA HOT LUNCH
Dear Hot Lunch Recipient Parents,
Your PTA is in need of two parents to volunteer to help coordinate hot lunch for the 2017-2018 school year. The positions and descriptions are as follows:

Hot Lunch Volunteer Coordinator - schedules the daily parent volunteers for hot lunch service, puts out the volunteer schedule before each semester, inputs automated reminder for workers shifts, educates new parents on the hot lunch process and rules, recruits parent volunteers as needed.
Hot Lunch Liaison - communicates with our vendor Pasta Market on all issues including menu, stocks the lunch rooms supplies and puts up weekly menu signs.

In addition we need parents to volunteer to serve hot lunch.

Hot Lunch Volunteers - oversee hot lunch delivery, serve hot lunch with Pasta Market staff, record refrigerator temperature, help 6th grade students should any issues arise, can do bi-monthly, monthly, 2x/week, weekly.

Hot lunch at Almond School is run by the PTA and is an elective program that is dependent on parent volunteers. It is a program that will be discontinued if we do not have enough volunteer support. During the last year we have negotiated 2 staff from Pasta Market to help which has cut our volunteer needs in half but we still need to fill these positions or we are in danger of losing the program.
Thank you for considering,
Rachel Harnish
PTA Executive Vice President
rachelharnish@yahoo.com

S.O.A.R. CELEBRATIONS
(listed alphabetically by last name)

Ruthann Bruzelius, 6/1/17, Respecting self and others
Grace Chen, 6/1/17, Owning learning
Sofia Colace, 6/1/17, Owning learning, Always making good choices
Jon Leonard, 6/1/17, Always making good choices
Conor McIntyre, 6/6/17, Always making good choices
Ava Sabharwal, 6/6/17, Solving problems, Owning learning, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others
Daniel Sopapunta, 6/1/17, Solving problems
Niki Tan, 6/1, Always making good choices
Roman Steciw, 6/1/17, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others
Yuta Watanabe, 6/6/17, Owning learning - Wow! Yuta has learned so much English!
Alex Winey, 6/1/17, Always making good choices
Stephanie Yen-ko, 6/6/17, Solving problems, Owning learning, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others

WANT TO SUBMIT SOMETHING TO THE THURSDAY WORD?

Quick Links…

School & Community News now found via Peachjar:

https://www.peachjar.com/index.php?a=28&b=138&region=53999

Almond Elementary School Website

Thursday Word June 1st

ALMOND THURSDAY WORD

June 1, 2017

UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER

Friday, 6/2
- TK/Kinder Spring Music Concert (11am, Multi)
- Minimum Day (School Ends at 12:15pm)
Thursday, 6/8
- Last Day of School
- 6th Grade Promotion (multi doors open @ 8:45am, ceremony @ 9am)
- MINIMUM DAY (school starts *8:30am* and ends at *11:30am*)

SCHOOL MESSAGE

Almond School Focus for 2017-18

Promote a positive and supportive school environment so that students may SOAR (solve problems, own learning, always make good choices, respect self and others).
Provide students with high quality, engaging first instruction that leverages proven and effective learning structures such as the workshop model, direct instruction, multidisciplinary and project based learning opportunities.
Respond to diverse academic learning needs through concentrated instruction.
Include students in self-assessment as part of a balanced assessment philosophy.

Student Homeroom Placement
In 2017-18 students will be heterogeneously placed into grade level homerooms. The staff has received clear guidance regarding the many factors to consider in developing balanced homerooms. Teachers are working together creating groups of students without any associated teacher. Over the summer, I will be assigning teachers to the various groups. As principal, I monitor each and every homeroom list and will make all final decisions regarding placement. We will share homeroom placement information via email with parents the Friday before school starts in August (8/11).

Staffing Adjustments
The saying goes, “The only constant in life is change.” Each year, teachers communicate with LASD leadership the different grade levels they’re interested in teaching. Each year, our leadership team works with teachers to ensure they’re positioned in a spot that inspires them, grows their expertise, and best leverages their skillset. A change in grade level is not a reflection that the previous grade level wasn’t a right fit, nor does it signal unhappiness. Instead, it is simply a new professional opportunity.

Updates Regarding Staff Departures for the 2017-18 School Year
We thank each member that is transitioning to a new opportunity for their time and dedication here at Almond and we wish them our very best.

Joseph Chan will be joining the LASD music team and lending his talents to all elementary schools across the district.
Cassidy Dadigian will be moving to Washington State.
Caitlin Florek will be teaching 4th grade at Loyola Elementary.
Diana Psyras will be joining her husband in retirement.

Teaching Roster for 2017-18

Transitional Kindergarten: Lisa Schubert
Kindergarten: Sarah Johnston, Leanne Kridl, Laurie Lamb
First Grade: Jenny Eldridge, Savanna Goltzer, Samantha Nguyen
Second Grade: Rachel Doblick, TBD
Third Grade: Sarah Hall, Joann Martinez, Tammy Reilly
Fourth Grade: Annie Daggett, Kelsey Greene, Jenny Wishnack
Fifth Grade: Vicki Burke, Laura Ohlund, Kaitlyn Pasket
Sixth Grade: Allison Aubrey, Jessica Saretsky, Jasen Stuart
Instructional Support Teacher (IST), STEM: Elizabeth Leach
Instructional Support Teacher (IST), Literacy Focus: Jill Croft
PE Teachers: Mary Alber, Doug Core
ELD Teacher: Jessica Mountz
RSP Teacher: Melissa Powell
Speech Teacher: Julie Chen

More About Those Joining Almond

Jill Croft : [Every elementary school will have an Instructional Support Teacher (IST) this upcoming year who is focused on literacy.] I have been a teacher in LASD for 18 years. I am passionate about literacy and helping all students grow to become engaged and enthusiastic readers. I am excited to collaborate with teachers at Almond in the implementation of Reader’s Workshop. In my spare time I enjoys reading, DIY projects, hiking, and spending time with my husband Mike, and my 11 and 8 year old sons, Drew and Charlie.
Savanna Goltzer: I am thrilled to join Los Altos School District next year as a first grade teacher at Almond! I was born and raised in the Bay Area and come from a family of teachers that have instilled a passion for education within me from a young age. After graduating from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo with a degree in English, I returned home to the Bay Area to begin my journey as a teacher. In June, I will graduate from Santa Clara University, earning my Master of Arts in Teaching and Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. I have had the pleasure of student teaching at Almond this school year, and I am so excited to become a part of the wonderful team of teachers there. I am very excited to start teaching and I cannot wait for August!
Kaitlyn Pasket: I was born and raised in the Bay Area. When I was younger, I would have my siblings play pretend school with me, and I would be the teacher. I enjoyed every aspect of it, but it wasn’t until I was in 4^th grade that my teacher fully initiated the spark in me to pursue a career in teaching. I wanted to become a teacher that was engaging and connected with all of the students, just like she did. I started my teaching journey by attending CSU Monterey Bay to receive my Bachelors of Arts Degree in Liberal Studies with a minor in Human Development. From there, I came back to the Bay Area to obtain my Master’s Degree in Teaching and Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from Santa Clara University. I completed my student teaching at Almond Elementary. I am beyond excited to officially become an eagle at Almond Elementary and being a part of the LASD family!

PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW

STUDENT COUNCIL

The homelessness fundraiser is over. We have raised $2,318.46 to donate to the Community Housing Project. We were so close to reaching our goal! Mrs. Nuyen's class won for the most money raised for the months of April/May. Thank you those who supported this cause.
Homeroom Challenge spirit day is on Friday! What will your homeroom come to school dressed as? We can’t wait to see!

S.O.A.R. CELEBRATIONS
(listed alphabetically by last name)

Georgeanne Brothers, 5/22, Owning learning, Always making good choices.
Svea Delingat, 5/22, Owning learning, Always making good choices.
Brayan Hernandez Gonzalez, 5/26, Owning learning. Brayan makes a great effort in his learning.
Daniela Hughes, 5/22, Owning learning, Always making good choices.
Zac Jackson, 5/19, Owning learning, Always making good choices.
Josh Kozo, 5/30, Owning learning, Always making good choices.
Natalie Larson, 5/22, Owning learning, Always making good choices.
Olivia Lee, 5/22, Owning learning, Always making good choices.
Andrew Onodera, 5/24, Owning learning.
Michael Park, 5/26, Respecting self and others. Michael is always thoughtful and kind to other students.
Haley Phillips, 5/22, Owning learning, Always making good choices.
Jackson Robles, 5/22, Owning learning, Always making good choices.
Avish Roy, 5/22, Owning learning, Always making good choices.
Diya Ruhela, 5/22, Owning learning, Always making good choices.
Daisy Sanders, 5/22, Owning learning, Always making good choices.
Felix Wikman, 5/24, Respecting self and others.
Evan Zhu, 5/22, Owning learning, Always making good choices.

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

Free One-on-One Reading Program offered by Teen Tutors
Are you interested in helping your child (Kindergarten to second grade) learn to read or practice reading skills? Teen Tutors is launching a reading program at the Los Altos Library on Saturdays with two sessions: 10:30am-11:15am and 11:15am-12pm. Come meet by the children’s desk to get started. Your child can receive free one-on-one attention from a trained high school volunteer. They can choose their favorite books to read, or have appropriate books chosen for them. Help your child develop a love of reading and practice reading comprehension skills! Early readers are welcome. The program is open to kindergarten through second graders.
Sessions available:

June 10, 17, 24, July 1
July 8, 15, 22, 29
August 5, 12, 19, 26

To register, visit http://tinyurl.com/TTReadToMe

WANT TO SUBMIT SOMETHING TO THE THURSDAY WORD?

Quick Links…

School & Community News now found via Peachjar:

https://www.peachjar.com/index.php?a=28&b=138&region=53999

Almond Elementary School Website

Thursday Word May 25th

ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
May 25, 2017

UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER

Thursday, 5/25 – Open House (5:30-6 Art Show in Multi, 6-7:00 Classroom Visits, 7:05-7:15 Volunteer Appreciation)
Wednesday, 5/24 - Walk or Wheel to School
Friday, 5/26 - Minimum Day (School Ends at 12:15pm)
Tuesday, 5/30 - Grade 1 thru 3 Spring Music Concert (1pm, Multi)
Friday, 6/2
- TK/Kinder Spring Music Concert (11am, Multi)
- Minimum Day (School Ends at 12:15pm)
Thursday, 6/8
- Last Day of School
- 6th Grade Promotion (multi doors open @ 8:45am, ceremony @ 9am)
- MINIMUM DAY (school starts *8:30am* and ends at *11:30am*)

SCHOOL MESSAGE

...from Krisaana Gunsagar, 2016-17 Student Body President.

Nothing is impossible, if you try!

I wanted to remind you that every single one of you is capable of achieving your goals. Throughout history, people have been proving that nothing is impossible. They have discovered and created things that defy what everyone has ever known. Those people have literally made mindsets grow. But it was far, far from easy. They had to fight for it, work for it, and overcome challenges. They had to try! Sometimes they had to tune out the entire, discouraging world. So, if anyone ever tells you that you can’t do it, or. that’s never going to happen, cover your ears and sing at the top of your lungs, "Nothing is impossible, if you try!".

Trying isn't always easy either. Your dreams don’t just come true with a snap of your fingers. There will always be challenges to overcome to achieve your goals. Think of life as an obstacle course race. Your goal is the finishing line, but before you can get there, there will be many obstacles in your way. Your shoelace might come undone or you might slip scaling a wall. What if you couldn't go somewhere because of your race or gender. Yes, in life there are many obstacles, that is no secret, but we are very fortunate to have a lot of help. Before any race, you have to train. That’s where school comes in. All the things you learn in school: having a growth mindset, problem-solving, teamwork, perseverance, etc., is all to train you for life. Our school doesn’t teach you this because the standards say so. Our teachers want you to know all this so that when the time comes you can use your skills to get over obstacles. Besides teachers, there will be others helping you complete your obstacle course. Your team members, coach, family, and friends will always be there for you, sitting in your bleachers of life. Remember, there will always be obstacles but if you set your mind to it, use your knowledge, and try your best, you can do anything.

PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW

STUDENT COUNCIL

The fundraiser to support the homeless has come to an end! The money is still being counted, but the final money raised will be announced at the Friday Assembly. The class with the most money raised for May can choose from a movie or ice cream party or to donate the party money to the homeless.
Safety Patrol has been asking for spare change since Monday. They have raised more than 80 dollars this week!! Thank you to those who donated!
Next week is spirit week. Due to the long weekend, Spirit week will start on Tuesday. Come dressed up for a different spirit day each day of the week!
- Tuesday = Tie Dye or Tie day
- Wednesday = Hawaiian Day
- Thursday = Role Model Day
- Friday = Homeroom Challenge

ATTENTION PARENTS WHO PURCHASE HOT LUNCHES

Your PTA is in need of two parents to volunteer to help coordinate hot lunch for the 2017-2018 school year. The positions and descriptions are as follows:
- Hot Lunch Volunteer Coordinator - schedules the daily parent volunteers for hot lunch service, puts out the volunteer schedule before each semester, inputs automated reminder for workers shifts, educates new parents on the hot lunch process and rules, recruits parent volunteers as needed.
- Hot Lunch Liaison - communicates with our vendor, Pasta Market, on all issues including the menu, stocks the lunch rooms supplies and puts up weekly menu signs.
- Hot Lunch Volunteers - oversees hot lunch delivery, observes students in hot lunch lines, communicates with Pasta Market staff as needed, records refrigerator temperature, helps 6th grade students should any issues arise, can do bi-monthly, monthly, 2x/week, weekly, daily.
Hot lunch at Almond School is run by the PTA and is an elective program that is dependent on parent volunteers. It is a program that will be discontinued if we do not have enough volunteer support. During the past year we have negotiated 2 staff from Pasta Market to help which has cut our volunteer needs in half but we still need to fill these positions or we are in danger of losing the program.

2018 SPRING GALA AND AUCTION

Next year Almond School will hold its bi-annual Spring Gala and Auction. This event is the school's biggest fundraiser and a wonderful way to meet and socialize with other Almond parents, all in support of our amazing school and children. The PTA is looking for several people to help plan this fun event:
- Spring Gala/Auction Co Chairs:
  - Management of Auction Committee (delegating the following responsibilities below amongst the committee as needed)
  - Communications/negotiations with a 3rd-party auction company for support
  - Participation in and coordination of volunteers/parents to solicit donation of auction items from local businesses/vendors and Almond families
  - Space planning and set-up of physical auction
- Spring Gala/Auction Treasurer
  - Collection of bids
  - Collection and tallying of payments (with support from on-line auction service)
If you have experience with event planning or you are enthusiastic for a new challenge, and would like to make an important contribution to our school, please let me know. We also have past Auction chairs who are happy to provide information if you would like to get a better understanding of the role(s).

LAEF: Tick-tock…three weeks and $59,325 to go!
In these final weeks of the 2016-17 school year, we are counting on 40 more LASD families to donate, fulfill their pledges, or submit a corporate match. We are so close to meeting LAEF's $3.7M fundraising goal, but we still have $59,325 to go. Every dollar makes a big difference! Please give or request a corporate match via LAEFonline.org or drop a check in our school’s office this week. Thank you.

Project Cornerstone/ABC Reading

In May, grades 1st-5th will be reading The OK Book by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Tom Lichtenheld. In this clever and literal play on words, OK is turned on its side, upside down, and right side up to show that being OK can really be quite great. Whether OK personifies an OK skipper, an OK climber, an OK lightning bug catcher, or an OK whatever there is to experience, ok is an OK place to be. And being OK just may lead to the discovery of what makes one great. This lesson celebrates the real skills and talents children possess, while encouraging and empowering them to discover new sparks and interests through a growth mindset.
The 6th graders are hearing the book "Who Moved My Cheese? For Kids" By Spencer Johnson, M.D. and his 12 year old son Christian Johnson. This book is told as a parable to allow kids to explore the topic of how people handle change. Resiliency and the power to control how we react to new situations will be discussed. The children’s version of this book is an excellent resource to help sixth-graders develop a positive approach to the changes they face as they prepare to move to junior high school.
Our Kinder students will be listening to Try and Stick With It by Cheri Meiners. This lesson focuses on the ability to be flexible and having perseverance. Children with a can do attitude learn that with perseverance they can accomplish and learn new things. With this growth mindset, students are taught to view challenges as something new to learn.
More information about the ABC Program.

SCHOOL CROSSING GUARD POSITIONS
All City Management Services Inc. is a family-owned company providing School Crossing Guard services for over 30 years. We currently have several positions open, right here in Los Altos. These are paid, part-time and seasonal positions. To qualify you must be 18 years old or older. No experience is necessary. Paid training is provided. Please call us at (800) 540-9290 for more information.

PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - REPEATED

FROM LASD HEALTH SERVICES

Medications that have resided in the nurse’s office will be available for pick up from June 8^th 2017 (last day of school) until June 14^th 2017.
We cannot store medications over the summer. If you are leaving before school ends, please pick up medications early. An adult must pick up the medication.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES FOR 2017-2018

It's time to order school supplies for next year! Almond Elementary is now available for ordering online at School-Pak. Go to https://www.schoolpak.com/catalog/almond-elementary and quickly and easily order school supplies for next year. Order by June 10th for DISCOUNTED PRICE and FREE school delivery, or order by July 12th for home delivery (shipping charges apply).
School-Pak is the simple way to shop for school supplies. You'll enjoy brand name products you know and trust, pre-packaged kits that meet teacher approved lists, and easy payment options.
Please email Deidre Caldbeck at dhollars@gmail.com if you have any questions.

S.O.A.R. CELEBRATIONS
(listed alphabetically by last name)

Kyle Anderson, 4/21/17, Owning learning. Kindergarten PE.
Clare Chang, 5/18/17, Owning learning, Always making good choices.
Benjamin Chock, 5/18/17, Solving problems, Owning learning.
Amber Clark, 4/21/17, Owning learning, Always making good choices. Kindergarten PE.
Ben Crawford, 5/23/17, Always making good choices. Ben has made AMAZING progress these past few weeks!
Alex Crosby, 5/23/17, Respecting self and others. Alex is always willing and eager to help out classmates in need.
Michelena de Senna, 4/7/17, Owning learning. Kindergarten music.
Nirelle De Witt, 5/17/17, Owning learning.
Verona Diesch, 5/18/17, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others.
Ari Frank, 4/21/17, Owning learning, Always making good choices. Kindergarten PE
Jungsoo Hahn, 5/23/17, Always making good choices. Jungsoo works very hard, always tries her best, and is always eager to help adults and other students.
Prisha Jain, 5/19/17, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others. Always helps others and respectful to everyone.
Sofia Kang, 5/18/17, Respecting self and others. Always kind and helpful to others.
Luna Latko, 4/7/17, Owning learning. Kindergarten music.
Max Lee, 5/19/17, Always making good choices , Respecting self and others. Always helps in the classroom.
Jack Meyer, 5/22/17, Owning learning, Always making good choices. Jack owned his learning by staying focused and making good choices.
Anishka Pradhan, 4/7/17, Owning learning. TK music.
Olivia Quino, 4/21/17, Owning learning. TK PE
Angel Rios, 5/22/17, Always making good choices. Angel made the choice to help pick up balls at the end of lunch recess for two weeks straight!
Rodrigo Rios, 5/18/17, Respecting self and others. Being a good friend to everyone!
Camille Steciw, 5/14/17, Solving problems.
Blake Thompson, 5/18/17, Owning learning. Hard worker!
Tyler Vaughn, 4/7/17, Owning learning, Always making good choices. Kindergarten music.
Alex Winny, 5/17/17, Always making good choices.
Kyle Wolcott, 5/22/17, Always making good choices. Kyle made the choice to help pick up balls at the end of lunch recess

Thursday Word May 18th

ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
May 18, 2017

UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER

Friday, 5/19
- Character Spirit Day
- Jamba Juice Sales After School - 6th Gr. Fundraiser
- 6th Grade Boys Basketball Tournament (3:45pm, Blach)
Saturday, 5/20 - Almond Beautification Day (9am-12pm)
Tuesday, 5/23 - 6th Grade CSTEM Showcase (3:30-5pm, Blach)
Thursday, 5/25 – Open House (5:30-6 Art Show in Multi, 6-7:00 Classroom Visits, 7:05-7:15 Volunteer Appreciation)
Wednesday, 5/24 - Walk or Wheel to School
Friday, 5/26 - Minimum Day (School Ends at 12:15pm)
Tuesday, 5/30 - Grade 1 thru 3 Spring Music Concert (1pm, Multi)
Friday, 6/2
- TK/Kinder Spring Music Concert (11am, Multi)
- Minimum Day (School Ends at 12:15pm)
Thursday, 6/8 - Last Day of School (8:30am - 11:30am)

SCHOOL MESSAGE

The Starbucks Unicorn Frappuccino took the country by storm. Its sparkles and swirls drew in customers and drained baristas for a single week. Attaching this majestic creature to a coffee drink yielded a mystical and whimsical beverage.

When 12 Almond staff members take time out of their busy lives to share their work in educating children, an opportunity for magic arises. While we didn’t have a large showing in the audience, reflecting on our accomplishments and learnings was well worth the preparation.

Here is a copy of the presentation.
Here is a video of the hour+ via a mobile device (so not the best sound quality, but at least it’s something).

Should you wish to share your thoughts and feedback on the efforts of the Almond staff, please take this survey. It will close next Friday.

PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW

STUDENT COUNCIL

This Friday is Character Day. Your child can dress up as any character from a movie, book, or TV show.
If you do not know almond is currently raising money for the homeless. Our goal is 2,750 dollars! We a couple hundred dollars away from goal (we have raised over $1,900 so far!)! We are raising money for CHPs learning academy. The fundraiser is ending soon so make sure to donate! The class with the most money raised for the month of May can choose from a movie and ice cream party, or to donate the party money to the homeless.
Starting Thursday, the safety patrol crew will be asking for spare change to donate to our fundraiser to support the homeless at the drop off area. It will be quick. This is just a little heads up.

PTA HOT LUNCH

Almond Hot Lunch Program is looking for a Volunteer Liaison chair for Year 2017-2018, please send an email to Bing Cai (bingxue.cai@gmail.com) or Jon Meyer (jondmeyer@yahoo.com) if you are interested in this position.
Almond Hot Lunch Program is also looking for volunteers who will help to serve school hot lunch on weekly or monthly basis, please contact Bing Cai (bingxue.cai@gmail.com) if you are able to help.
Thanks to all parents who involved in Almond Hot Lunch Program, without your help, this voluntary program will not be able to run successfully.

Friday the 19th - Jamba Juice sale! - Our 6th Grade class will be selling Jamba Juice this Friday the 19th after school in the front of the school. Jamba Juice will be $3 as usual. Please come out and support the 6th grade class as they raise funds for their Promotion and Class Gift. Friday promises to be a warm day so please do come prepared as those juices will go fast.

PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - REPEATED

Environmental Stewardship Day on Saturday, May 20 from 9:00 AM-12:00 PM

This will be a community beautification day at Almond School where students, parents, and members of the community will help to maintain our gardens, plant flowers, and clean up the campus in time for Open House! If you have a 6th grade student looking for community service hours, this will also satisfy three hours of volunteer work.
This is part of Katia Gibson’s (Los Altos High senior and daughter of staff member Martha Gomez) Girl Scout Gold Award project, and everyone is invited. Students must have a parent supervisor to participate. No prior gardening experience is necessary, and we will teach various techniques such as pruning, planting, and mulching our gardens. Tools will be provided, but we would encourage you to bring your own labeled tools if you have them.
If you or your student would like to participate, please fill out the Google form: goo.gl/5g72Yp
Questions or concerns, please reach out to katiamariegibson@gmail.com.

Egan's VIKING SHOWCASE is coming on Thursday, June 1! Previously known as Portfolio Day, the Viking Showcase provides the opportunity for our 8th grade students to reflect on their personal and academic growth and to receive acknowledgment for their work. This is accomplished in an interview format. We welcome parents of both 7th and 8th grade students, as well as community members and leaders to volunteer as interviewers. Learn more at: http://eganschool.org/egan/6696-PD.html
Please save the date and sign up to volunteer at Viking Showcase Volunteer. Confirmation emails will be sent once we have assigned all volunteers.
Questions? Contact Lori Bogard Toomre at loribogard@yahoo.com or Natasha Stirrup at natashastirrup@hotmail.com.

FROM LASD HEALTH SERVICES

Medications that have resided in the nurse’s office will be available for pick up from June 8^th 2017 (last day of school) until June 14^th 2017.
We cannot store medications over the summer. If you are leaving before school ends, please pick up medications early. An adult must pick up the medication.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES FOR 2017-2018

It's time to order school supplies for next year! Almond Elementary is now available for ordering online at School-Pak. Go to https://www.schoolpak.com/catalog/almond-elementary and quickly and easily order school supplies for next year. Order by June 10th for DISCOUNTED PRICE and FREE school delivery, or order by July 12th for home delivery (shipping charges apply).
School-Pak is the simple way to shop for school supplies. You'll enjoy brand name products you know and trust, pre-packaged kits that meet teacher approved lists, and easy payment options.
Please email Deidre Caldbeck at dhollars@gmail.com if you have any questions.

YEARBOOK

We hope that everyone had a great Spring Break!!
If you haven’t done so already, it’s time to order your copy of the 2016-17 Yearbook! (Yearbooks were *not* ordered during the Back-to-School Registration, so you need to do it now!)
There are 2 easy ways to reserve your copy:
(1) Order online and pay by credit card - go to this link: https://almondpta.squarespace.com/yearbook/order
(2) Fill out a Paper Form and pay by check or cash. Paper forms are available in the school office.
Yearbooks will be delivered to the classrooms in early June and quantities are limited, so order your copy now!
Email Leon with any questions (leonyao.pta@gmail.com)
Thanks, Fintan McCabe & Leon Yao (Yearbook Committee)

S.O.A.R. CELEBRATIONS
(listed alphabetically by last name)

Kseniia Antipina, 5/12/17, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others. Great listener!
Amelle Badey, 5/12/17, Always making good choices.
Kavya Bhaskaran, 5/12/17, Owning learning. Challenging herself by choosing higher level books.
Aiden Chavda, 5/12/17, Always making good choices.
Zoey Chong, 5/12/17, Owning learning. Hard worker and knowing all math facts!
Alena Gonebnaya, 5/17/17, Owning learning. Alena is patient with whomever she works and works very hard on her own work.
Oliver Heit, 5/17/17, Owning learning.
Reina Ishii, 5/17/17, Always making good choices, Solving problems. Reina and a classmate picked up other students' paper towels off the floor without prompting.
Liam Jensen, 5/12/17, Respecting self and others. Being positive and helping others.
Joohee Kim, 5/12/17, Owning learning. Hard worker and learning all math facts!
Tabs Lee, 5/10/17, Solving problems. Tabs was an upstander who helped friends solve a conflict.
Yunia Lee, 5/17/17, Owning learning, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others.
Kavin Lingham, 5/17/17, Owning learning.
Misael Lopez, 5/17/17, Owning learning. Refocusing during learning time at the back table.
Nate Mauss, 5/17/17, Owning learning. Great job owning his learning by asking for help and diligently working.
Ella McFarlane, 5/12/17, Owning learning. Engaged learner!
Isabel Solis, 5/17/17, Always making good choices, Solving problems. Isabel and a classmate picked up other students' paper towels off the floor without prompting.
Meena Stanger, 5/17/17, Always making good choices. Did a great job using her time to help others in class when she finished work early.

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

70TH ANNUAL LOS ALTOS PET PARADE

Mark Your Calendars! The 70TH ANNUAL LOS ALTOS PET PARADE will be held on Saturday, May 20th at 10 a.m.!

Almond families and their pets (dogs, cats, birds, goats, fish, horses, reptiles, stuffed animals or no animals at all) will meet in their green Almond wear at 9:15am downtown (details on where in a few weeks). If you child wo

Thursday Word May 11th

ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
May 11, 2017

UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER

Thursday, 5/11
- LASD Spring Concert Gr. 4-6 (12:45pm, Multi)
- Seussical Performance (4pm, Multi)
- Seussical Performance (7pm, Multi)
Friday, 5/12
- Grades 3 thru 6 CAASPP Testing (CAT Math)
- 6th Grade Girls Basketball Tournament (3:45pm, Blach)
- Seussical Performance (4pm, Multi)
- Seussical Performance (7pm, Multi)
Saturday, 5/13
- Seussical Performance (4pm, Multi)
- Seussical Performance (7pm, Multi)
Tuesday, 5/16 - State of the School (6pm, Multi)
Friday, 5/19 - 6th Grade Boys Basketball Tournament (3:45pm, Blach)
Saturday, 5/20 - Almond Beautification Day (9am-12pm)
Tuesday, 5/23 - 6th Grade CSTEM Showcase (3:30-5pm, Blach)
Thursday, 5/25 – Open House (5:30-6 Art Show in Multi, 6-7:00 Classroom Visits, 7:05-7:15 Volunteer Appreciation)
Friday, 5/26 - Minimum Day (School Ends at 12:15pm)
Tuesday, 5/30 - Grade 1 thru 3 Spring Music Concert (1pm, Multi)
Friday, 6/2
- TK/Kinder Spring Music Concert (11am, Multi)
- Minimum Day (School Ends at 12:15pm)
Thursday, 6/8 - Last Day of School (8:30am - 11:30am)

CAASPP stands for CA Assessment for Student Performance & Progress
CAT stands for computer adaptive test.
PT stands for performance task.

SCHOOL MESSAGE

Last week, the Almond PTA spoiled the school staff by showing their appreciation of us through a daily gesture. THANK YOU!

Today, LASD celebrates a certificated and classified employee of the year for each site. Those receiving this distinction have been selected by their peers for exemplifying the qualities we hope each member of our organization embodies.

It is my true pleasure to announce and celebrate our honorees at Almond this year; Mrs. Wishnack (certificated employee of the year) and Jane Sanders (classified employee of the year).

Mrs. Wishnack creates a sense of (what I call) “magic” in her classroom. She turned 158 years old this year, yet still approaches teaching as though she were in the infancy of her career. She incorporates crafts that students are eager to create. She is very clear in her expectations of learning and demonstrates abundant patience in allowing students to meet them. Mrs. Wishnack has a sophisticated sense of humor that takes students a bit of time to appreciate. She cares deeply for her students and dedicates her own time to supporting them when needed after school. Mrs. Wishnack is a treasure at Almond School that we consider priceless.

Jane Sanders has a heart of gold. She is typically the first person to welcome new families to our school. She fields a variety of needs throughout the day. Regardless the request, she receives it with a smile and an aim to please. She takes time to connect with students, their families, and staff. When in the presence of Jane, it is common to feel that you are the most important person existing at that moment because she gives you her all. She revels in the beauty of each child and honors their individuality. Jane Sanders is not just a mother to her own children, she is a caring nurturer to all of us.

Join me in recognizing these two amazing members of the Almond Staff!

PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW

STUDENT COUNCIL

Just a few more days to donate to support the homeless. We have raised over $1,900 so far! That’s only a couple hundred dollars away from our goal of $2,750. Continue donating money for Community Housing Partnership’s Learning Academy. Starting Monday, Safety Patrol will partner with Student Council to ask for any spare change to donate during drop off time. Every penny counts!
Friday May 19th is Character Day! Dress like your favorite character from a book, movie or TV show. Have fun with it and show your spirit!

LAEF: Spring Music Concerts Are Coming: May 10^th-19^th

“I would teach children music, physics, and philosophy; but most importantly music, for the patterns in music and all the arts are the keys to learning.” ― Plato. LAEF is proud to sponsor LASD Music for grades 4-6. Join us and enjoy classical pieces, folk songs, popular music, and film favorites. Fourth graders will be singing and playing their recorders. Fifth graders will have their 1^st full ensemble performance in the band, orchestra, or chorus. Sixth will have their final performance in the band, orchestra, or chorus. For more information, please go to http://www.losaltos.k12.ca.us/District/Portal/Music.

REQUEST FROM TK
Parents, if any of your children have outgrown Magna Tiles, TK would love to take them off your hands. Our littlest eagles love building with them. - Thanks, Mrs. Schubert

FROM LASD HEALTH SERVICES

Medications that have resided in the nurse’s office will be available for pick up from June 8^th 2017 (last day of school) until June 14^th 2017.
We cannot store medications over the summer. If you are leaving before school ends, please pick up medications early. An adult must pick up the medication.

PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - REPEATED

Environmental Stewardship Day on Saturday, May 20 from 9:00 AM-12:00 PM

This will be a community beautification day at Almond School where students, parents, and members of the community will help to maintain our gardens, plant flowers, and clean up the campus in time for Open House! If you have a 6th grade student looking for community service hours, this will also satisfy three hours of volunteer work.
This is part of Katia Gibson’s (Los Altos High senior and daughter of staff member Martha Gomez) Girl Scout Gold Award project, and everyone is invited. Students must have a parent supervisor to participate. No prior gardening experience is necessary, and we will teach various techniques such as pruning, planting, and mulching our gardens. Tools will be provided, but we would encourage you to bring your own labeled tools if you have them.
If you or your student would like to participate, please fill out the Google form: goo.gl/5g72Yp
Questions or concerns, please reach out to katiamariegibson@gmail.com.

Egan's VIKING SHOWCASE is coming on Thursday, June 1! Previously known as Portfolio Day, the Viking Showcase provides the opportunity for our 8th grade students to reflect on their personal and academic growth and to receive acknowledgment for their work. This is accomplished in an interview format. We welcome parents of both 7th and 8th grade students, as well as community members and leaders to volunteer as interviewers. Learn more at: http://eganschool.org/egan/6696-PD.html
Please save the date and sign up to volunteer at Viking Showcase Volunteer. Confirmation emails will be sent once we have assigned all volunteers.
Questions? Contact Lori Bogard Toomre at loribogard@yahoo.com or Natasha Stirrup at natashastirrup@hotmail.com.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES FOR 2017-2018

It's time to order school supplies for next year! Almond Elementary is now available for ordering online at School-Pak. Go to https://www.schoolpak.com/catalog/almond-elementary and quickly and easily order school supplies for next year. Order by June 10th for DISCOUNTED PRICE and FREE school delivery, or order by July 12th for home delivery (shipping charges apply).
School-Pak is the simple way to shop for school supplies. You'll enjoy brand name products you know and trust, pre-packaged kits that meet teacher approved lists, and easy payment options.
Please email Deidre Caldbeck at dhollars@gmail.com if you have any questions.

YEARBOOK

We hope that everyone had a great Spring Break!!
If you haven’t done so already, it’s time to order your copy of the 2016-17 Yearbook! (Yearbooks were *not* ordered during the Back-to-School Registration, so you need to do it now!)
There are 2 easy ways to reserve your copy:
(1) Order online and pay by credit card - go to this link: https://almondpta.squarespace.com/yearbook/order
(2) Fill out a Paper Form and pay by check or cash. Paper forms are available in the school office.
Yearbooks will be delivered to the classrooms in early June and quantities are limited, so order your copy now!
Email Leon with any questions (leonyao.pta@gmail.com)
Thanks, Fintan McCabe & Leon Yao (Yearbook Committee)

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS-ACTION Required
Please complete a short survey on your experience with the after school programs this year. I appreciate your feedback so we can make next year even better!

S.O.A.R. CELEBRATIONS - (NEW SECTION)
(listed alphabetically by last name)

Shanley Davey, 5/5, Solving problems. Owning learning. Shanley has been owning his learning and making good choices to help him focus.
Tony Hong, 4/17, Owning learning. Tony is focused and double checks his work carefully in math.
Sophia Hu, 4/30, Sophia always treats everyone in our class with kindness. She is a very helpful young lady.
Everly Kraska, 5/5, Owning learning. She jumped 2 levels in reading! :-)
Ethan Ling, 5/10, My son Lucas knows Ethan from reading. Throughout this school year, he has been caring for Lucas as a little brother, and including him as a fun buddy. I am so grateful for Ethan. He is such a great model for Lucas, on how to treat younger peers inside the Almond community.
Maxx Matthai, 5/10, My son Lucas knows Maxx from reading. Throughout this school year, he has been caring for Lucas as a little brother, and including him as a fun buddy. I am so grateful for Maxx. He is such a great model for Lucas, on how to treat younger peers inside the Almond community.
Sara Pradhan, 4/30, Always making good choices. Follows directions and is quiet & respectful when the teacher is talking.
Leonardo Romero Fernandez, 5/5, Owning learning.
S

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