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Dear Almond Families,
This year’s theme for the Almond staff and students is TEAM: Together Everyone Achieves More. And you, our fabulous school community, demonstrated amazing TEAMwork last week. I’d like to reflect on that whirlwind of activity:
- Sixth grade parents rallied together to get their students ready for a week at Walden West Science camp and carpooled them there
- The weeks of preparation leading up to last Saturday's Walkathon and Silent Auction culminated in a fantastic day of fun, fundraising and community-building
- Our students came together to walk, have fun with their friends, and celebrate our school community
- The Book Fair was setup last Tuesday and was open for a whole week, with a dedicated group of book-loving parents supporting our Almond readers
- Wednesday was the International Walk or Roll to school day, with the LAHS Marching Band and Los Altos Police officers
I can’t express how thankful we as a staff are to be a part of this wonderful TEAM.
Here’s to our supportive, dynamic Almond community,
Raquel
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UPCOMING DATES
- Wed, Oct 24, PTA General Meeting, 8:35 in Multi
- Fri, Oct. 26, Halloween Carnival! 3:30-5:30
- Mon, Nov. 12, Holiday—NO SCHOOL
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Halloween Carnival
Next Friday, Octover 26, is the Almond Halloween Carnival! There will be games and food, tricks and treats! It starts at 3:30, giving you time to go home, put on your costume, and come back to Almond to have fun with your friends! This is not a drop-off event.
Pumpking Decorating Contest
Calling all Pumpkin Carvers!! The Annual Almond Pumpkin Carving/Decorating contest is coming up quickly. If you would like to participate, bring your carved or decorated pumpkin to school on Friday Oct. 26th by 8:30am. The pumpkins will be on display on tables outside the Multi all day and the prizes will be awarded for the most creative pumpkins. Good luck!
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NEWS FROM LAEF
We've Cleared $2 Million! … well on our way to raising $3.5 million for this school year. Thank you to everyone who has donated to help us reach this milestone.
If you made a pledge during our LAEF Phonathon, or have yet to donate, visit laefonline.org/donate, or text your donation to LAEF at 50155. The suggested donation is $1,200 per student enrolled. Donations of any amount are greatly appreciated.
Coming Soon: Free Seminar Co-sponsored by LAEF!
Sleep: Crucial Key to Wellness and Success by Rafael Pelayo, M.D.
Tuesday, October 23, 2018 7:00 - 9:00 pm Los Altos High School,
Eagle Theater 201 Almond Ave, Los Altos, CA, Spanish Translation Available.
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Almond School participates in the Box Tops for Education fundraising program. Each pink coupon from General Mills products is worth 10 cents for our school! K-5 grades were given collection baggies at the end of last year so they could collect all summer long. Please return any collected coupons and place them in the collection bin in the office. This is an ongoing fundraiser and a very easy way for your student to help collect money for our school. Tell neighbors, family, and friends about our program and have them join the fun by collecting them for you.
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Post an Announcement in the Thursday Word? If you have an announcement to include in the Thursday Word, please send it to AlmondThursdayWord@
Dear Almond Families,
Learning, engagement and fun are afoot at Almond school! Students and staff have settled into consistent routines that allow curiosity and learning to fly. Teachers were engaged in a full day of professional development centered around choice and best practices on Friday, September 21st, that provided them with more effective tools to support student learning. There are also many exciting activities still scheduled for the month of October including the Scholastic Book Fair (beginning next week), the Walkathon & Silent Auction (Oct. 13; we still need lots of parent volunteers!) and Walden West (all 6th graders next week). Lots of reasons to celebrate October! I also wanted to let you know that tomorrow morning at our school assembly I will be sharing with all students that we will be engaged in a Cardboard Challenge activity, school-wide. This is a global event that is meant to encourage creativity and help “raise a new generation of innovators and problem solvers who have the tools they need to build the world they imagine.” Over the next few weeks, students will work independently or in collaborative groups to design and construct an invention of their own. We will need lots and lots of cardboard so please look for those requests from your child’s teacher. Here is an inspiring video you can watch with your child that highlights one little boy’s journey in creating his very own cardboard arcade: Caine’s Arcade.
Here’s to a fun and festive October!
Raquel Matteroli
p.s. A 15 year Almond tradition, the Halloween Carnival, is in danger of being canceled due to lack of volunteers. Please look out for an email from the PTA tomorrow and consider signing up to help by contacting Marcsi Elovson (mkratochwill@yahoo.com)
Fun fact about Mrs. Matteroli: discovering the etymology of words is a passion of mine. Did you know that October was actually the eighth month of the old Roman calendar (pre-46 B.C.E.), which began the year in March? Which is why it is called “Oct-ober” even though now it is the 10th month of the calendar year.
UPCOMING DATES
- Oct 8, Author Andrea Beaty to speak to grades 1-3
- Wed, Oct 10, International Walk to School Day (details below)
- Oct 8-12, 6th graders at Walden West--have a fantastic week, 6th graders!
- Oct 11-17, Scholastic Book Fair
- Sat, Oct 13, Almond Walkathon and Silent Auction!
- Thurs, Oct 18, Minimum Day, 12:15 dismissal for all students *please note the time*
- Wed, Oct 24, PTA General Meeting, 8:35 in Multi
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It's almost that time--WALKATHON!
It's already October 4th and the Walkathon is coming in just nine days, on Oct 13th!
If you haven’t registered already, please do register soon.
The Walkathon is our school's most fun and biggest event of this year. We need your help to make it a success - since this is a parent-run event, we need parents, grandparents, older siblings, neighbors, and others to help fill the 200+ volunteer shifts required for a fun and safe day. There are many different ways you can get involved and we appreciate if you are able to sign up below for more than one shift if you can.
Walkathon T-Shirt Sorting and Sales
Sign up your Middle Schooler for Almond Eagle
Look for more information to come home with your student this week.
Thank you and see you at the Walkathon on October 13!
Shipra Agarwalla
Walkathon Chair
GET PREPARED TO BID AT THE WALKATHON SILENT AUCTION! We have over 130 items including vacation homes, adult & kid parties, sports tickets, reserved school parking and much more!
New this year - the silent auction will be online bidding only. Register now to preview the catalog and save your favorites. We are still receiving donations so check back before the auction goes live on October 11th.
Important Silent Auction Dates:
- Oct 4 - Catalogue Preview Opens
- Oct 11 - Online Bidding Goes Live
- Oct 13 - Walkathon 9am-1pm (Silent Auction closes at 12:30pm)
Thank you to the generous families who have already donated to the silent auction. If you have last minute auction donations, please submit here.
Fall Book Fair
The Scholastic Book Fair is coming next week. Please join us for the Grand Opening Coffee on Thursday, October 11 at 8:15am and come buy books to help build our classrooms and school library! You can also order online from today until October 17 at http://www.scholastic.com/
Email Amy Lee at atlee3@gmail.com or Young Kwon at kwonhyeyoung@gmail.com or Joy Yu at jungmin.yu@gmail.com if you have any questions. Want to see the kids during the Book Fair? Consider volunteering for a shift or two here.
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LAEF
We've raised $1.5 Million ... well on our way to our $3.5 Million fundraising goal!
To those of you who have donated this school year -- Thank You!
October 2nd and 3rd is our annual LAEF Phonathon and our team of volunteers is working hard to help us raise the final $2 Million. We strive for 100% participation from all of our LASD families. Donate or Pledge today and help fund teachers at your school. The suggested annual donation is $1,200 per student or $120/month per student. Every donation of any amount is appreciated.
- Watch this 2-minute video to find out exactly what LAEF will support at your child’s school this year.
- Learn more about why our local public schools need your financial support.
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Wednesday, October 10th is International Walk or Wheel to School Day!
Please walk or wheel to school by 8:00am.
The Almond Eagle Mascot will be out welcoming students to school!
There will be yummy snacks for students that have walked or wheeled to
school, as well as the traditional performance by the LAHS Marching
Band at 8:15am on the blacktop.
If you live a little too far away to walk or wheel, please consider
parking and walking the final stretch. We will have walking “carpools”
meeting at Alicia and Almond, and at El Monte and Almond. Los Altos
motorcycle police officers will be on hand to help guide traffic, and
give high fives to our fantastic students!
If you have any questions about International Walk or Wheel day, please email Reena.Grover@gmail.com
Thanks everyone for your participation!
Reena Grover & Kinnery Patel
Walk or Wheel PTA Chairs
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Our school needs Crossing Guards!
If you someone who is available before and after school, here is an opportunity to make a difference for our students! We need dependable adults to help our students safely cross the street to school. And for $45 a day, it’s a pretty nice gig! Please see this flyer for more information.
Are you a book geek? Love the library?
Our wonderful Ms. Carla in the library would love adults who are willing to shelve books during the day and/or help with other library tasks. Please email cschick@lasdschools.org if you’d like to spend some time in our lovely library!
Dear Almond Families,
Yesterday, we had this school year’s first PTA General Meeting. Thank you to those that attended! We had a fantastic presentation from our Literacy Instructional Support Teacher, Jill Croft. For those of you who were unable to attend, please take a few minutes to familiarize yourselves with our balanced literacy program for all students, TK through 6th grades. Please click here to see the presentation.
Mr. Jeff Baier, our Superintendent, also presented information about the 10th school site. You may read more here. Also, there is a notice below about a Community Meeting discussing this topic. We'd love to see you there.
School Site Council (SSC) is a body of people comprised of Almond parents and school staff members. The purpose of this group is to understand the academic goals and focus of the school, as well as to review how resources are used towards this end. Also, this group gathers input from the school/parent community in relation to the academic, socio-emotional, and balanced education our children are receiving. Often times this group recommends areas to be addressed as a result of this input.
SSC will meet about three to four times a year, usually in the afternoon from 3:15-4:15. We are in need of three parents to join us in these conversations. If you are interested in being a part of the SSC, please email me at rmatteroli@lasdschools.org.
Lastly, and very importantly, I’d like to ask for your assistance after school. We want to be sure our students know that we have consistent behavior expectations at Almond. If you are waiting for an older student, please be sure to supervise your little ones in the rotunda area. The play structures and garden areas are off-limits until 4:00. We want Almond to be a safe place for everyone!
October is going to be a busy month—please read all the messages below and fill up your calendar!
Here’s to being in the swing of things,
Raquel
UPCOMING DATES
- Friday, Sept. 28, Walkathon Theme reveal at morning assembly!
- Friday, Sept. 28, Vision Screening for students in K, 2 and 5
- Sat, Sept. 29, Community Meeting re: 10th Site (details below)
- Wed, Oct 10, International Walk to School Day (details below)
- Oct 8, Author Andrea Beaty to speak to grades 1-3
- Oct 8-12, 6th graders at Walden West
- Oct 11-17, Scholastic Book Fair
- Sat, Oct 13, Almond Walkathon and Silent Auction!
- Thurs, Oct 18, Minimum Day, 12:15 dismissal for all students *please note the time*
It’s time for the LAEF Phonathon -- October 2nd and 3rd
Help us fund teachers at your school!
If you have not yet donated or pledged, Save Us a Call!
Donate or pledge today and we will remove you from our call list.
Our goal is $3.5 million and 100% participation from all of our LASD families. The suggested annual donation is $1,200 per student or $120/month per student. Every donation of any amount is appreciated.
- Find out all the ways your child will benefit from your donation to LAEF this school year.
- Watch this 2-minute video and learn why our local public schools need your financial support.
We need your help at the Phonathon!
Join our board members, parents, principals and teachers to make phone calls on October 2nd & 3rd. Food, drinks, and scripts provided. The more callers we have, the more money we can raise.
Sign up now to help make calls.
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Wednesday, October 10th is International Walk or Wheel to School Day!
The Almond Eagle Mascot will be out welcoming students to school! There will be snacks for students that have walked or wheeled to school, as well as the traditional performance by the LAHS Marching Band at 8:15am on the blacktop.
If you live a little too far away to walk or wheel, please consider parking and walking the final stretch. We will have walking “carpools” meeting at Alicia and Almond, and at El Monte and Almond. Los Altos motorcycle police officers will be on hand to help guide traffic, and give high fives to our fantastic students!
Thank you,
Reena Grover & Kinnery Patel
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WALKATHON / SILENT AUCTION / FALL BOOK FAIR
There are so many ways to get involved with the Walkathon, our school's most fun and biggest event of this year. We need your help to make it a success! Since this is a parent-run event, we need parents, grandparents, older siblings, neighbors and others to help fill the 200+ volunteer shifts required for a fun and safe day. There are many different ways you can get involved and we appreciate if you are able to sign up below for more than one shift if you can.
Walkathon T-Shirt Sorting and Sales
Sign up your Middle Schooler for Almond Eagle
Thank you and see you at the Walkathon on October 13!
Bronwyn O’Malley, Walkathon Volunteer Coordinator
Shipra Agarwalla, Walkathon Chair
Walkathon Silent Auction
Last call for donations! Our deadline is quickly approaching on October 3rd, and we still need donations for the silent auction. Please consider participating!
Donation ideas:
- Host an adult party with some friends
- 80’s, Summer Solstice, Backyard BBQ, Fondue, Martini, Toga, Pool, Wine Tasting, Super Bowl, Game Night, Oscar Night, Cooking Class
- Host a kids’ party
- Treasure Hunt, Tea Party, Pool Party, Cookie Decorating
- Provide your professional services
- Photography package, discount on dental work, tour of your company’s facility, catering
- Donate your vacation home or timeshare
- Sports or special events tickets are a hit!
- Supply a bottle of wine for our wine wall ($30 value or more)
How to donate:
- Submit via donation link: Donate Here
Email: Email Here
Fall Book Fair
The Book Fair is coming soon! The Fair will be open October 11 – 16 (Friday, Monday and Tuesday, 8:15am-3:45pm, Thursday, 8:15am – 2:30pm, and during the Walkathon on Saturday, 8:30am-1:30pm). You can also order online from October 4 through October 17 at http://www.scholastic.com/
Want to see the kids during the Book Fair? Consider volunteering for a shift or two here
Hospitality - Bakers
Can you bake? The PTA's Hospitality Committee needs you to join other Almond parent bakers who make and bring cookies, rice crispy treats, breads, brownies, muffins etc. that are sold or offered at Almond events like Walk-a-thon, Halloween Carnival, Kinder Assessments and 6th Grade Promotion. Please sign up here to bake for one or more of these activities. Thank you!
And though this isn’t Walkabout related, it is a call for help:
Sound System Expertise Needed!
Do you have experience with all things audio? We are in need of someone who can help us revamp our audio system in the Multi. If you are able to lend a hand, please contact our Technology Specialist Donna Murphy at dmurphy@lasdschools.org . Thanks in advance!
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LOST AND FOUND
It’s that time of year! It’s chilly in the mornings and warmer later, and the kids are peeling off their sweatshirts during the day, often leaving them on the playground. Please come take a look if you are missing some wardrobe items, water bottles or lunch boxes. We will be taking the remainders to a local charity at the end of each month. Of course, if we find your child’s name on the label, we will be sure to return it to you (hint, hint…).
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COMMUNITY EVENTS
Community Meeting Saturday, 9/29, Del Medio Park, 2:30-3:30
Come to our Community Meeting and meet with guests of honor, Vladimir Ivanovic and Bryan Johnson, members of the LASD Board of Trustees. They will be on hand at Del Medio Park at 2:30 to give information, answer questions and hear your feedback about the 10th LASD school site planned for the Kohl’s store location. Please click here for the informational flyer in English, for Spanish here, and for Mandarin, here. There will be translators available at the park. We hope to see you there!
The MVLA Parent Education Speaker Series
Sleep: Crucial Key to Wellness and Success
Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2018 - 7:00 - 9:00pm | LAHS Eagle Theatre |201 Almond Avenue
Why is sleep so essential to good health? What are signs of poor sleep and how can you address them? Join us as Dr. Rafael Pelayo explores the crucial role sleep plays in healthy child and adolescent development and shares the latest research in sleep science at Stanford. Dr Pelayo is a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the Stanford Center for Sleep Sciences and Medicine.
Register for this free event at https://mvla2018-19-
Dear Almond Families,
Our classrooms are humming with engaged learners! Thank you for sending your students to our school, on time and well-rested.
With our ever popular October 13 Walkathon quickly approaching, I wanted to let you know of a related upcoming event - our theme for this year's Walkathon will be revealed to the school during assembly next Friday, September 28. I invite you and your family to join us at 8:30am for the theme reveal and share in the school's excitement! It's also a good opportunity for families to learn more about the Walkathon, including important tips for the day, and ask questions at the end of assembly to the parents helping to organize the Walkathon. A reminder to pre-register your children for the Walkathon by September 23 to ensure you get the size and quantity of themed Walkathon t-shirts you would like.
Our teaching staff will be taking part in a district-wide Professional Learning Day tomorrow, and will be excited to share their new knowledge with your students on Monday!
Here's to a wonderful long weekend,
Raquel
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UPCOMING DATES
- Tomorrow, Friday, 9/21, NO SCHOOL
- Monday, Sept. 24, Photo Re-takes, 8:30-12
- Wednesday, Sept. 26, PTA General Meeting, 8:35, Multi
- Friday, Sept. 28, Walkathon Theme reveal at morning assembly!
- Friday, Sept. 28, Vision Screening for students in K, 2 and 5
- Wed, Oct 10, International Walk to School Day (details TBD)
- Oct 8-12, 6th graders at Walden West
- Oct 11-17, Scholastic Book Fair
- Sat, Oct 13, Almond Walkathon and Silent Auction!
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Our biggest fundraiser of the year, The ALMOND WALKATHON, is on Saturday, October 13. It will be a day that includes a silent auction, music, food, and, of course, lots of walking. Do not miss this fun day!
Since this is a fundraising event with proceeds going directly to our school, a donation of $75 for each child is requested, but any amount is appreciated. Many parents choose to donate a flat amount on behalf of their child, but you are also welcome to solicit donations from family and friends. If you are not able to donate at this time, you are still encouraged to register and come join the fun.
A specially designed Walkathon t-shirt is available to pre-order on the Walkathon registration form ($10/shirt). Students are encouraged to wear this t-shirt to school the day before the Walkathon and to the Walkathon. The shirts are different each year to match the theme selected for the year, and can also be worn for various Almond spirit days throughout the year. Please register and pre-order your t-shirt(s) by September 23 to ensure you get the size and quantity of shirts desired.
Register now and we will see you on October 13!
Silent Auction
We need donations for the silent auction from our generous Almond families and local businesses. Please consider participating!
Donation ideas:
- Host an adult party with some friends
- 80’s, Summer Solstice, Backyard BBQ, Fondue, Martini, Toga, Pool, Wine Tasting, Super Bowl, Game Night, Oscar Night, Cooking Class
- Host a kids’ party
- Treasure Hunt, Tea Party, Pool Party, Cookie Decorating
- Provide your professional services
- Photography package, discount on dental work, tour of your company’s facility, catering
- Donate your vacation home or timeshare
- Sports or special events tickets are a hit!
- Supply a bottle of wine for our wine wall ($30 value or more)
How to donate:
- Submit via donation link: Donate Here
- Email: Email Here
Fall Book Fair
The Scholastic Book Fair will be open Thursday, October 11 though Tuesday, October 16. Purchase books and Almond will get back up to 50% of proceeds! If you would like to volunteer, or have any other questions about the Book Fair, please contact Amy Lee at atlee3@gmail.com or Young Kwon at kwonhyeyoung@gmail.com or Joy Yu at jungmin.yu@gmail.com.
Stop in during the Walkathon!
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News from LAEF
We've raised $1 Million ... well on our way to our $3.5 Million fundraising goal!
We are grateful to the families who have donated this school year.
If you have not yet donated or pledged, Save Us a Call!
Our annual LAEF Phonathon is coming up on October 2nd and 3rd. Donate or pledge today and we will remove you from our call list.
Our goal is $3.5 million and 100% participation from all of our LASD families. The suggested annual donation is $1,200 per student or $120/month per student. Every donation of any amount is appreciated.
- Find out all the ways your child will benefit from your donation to LAEF this school year.
- Watch this 2-minute video and learn why our local public schools need your financial support.
Sign up now to help make calls for the LAEF Phonathon and invite your friends to join you! New volunteers are welcome. We'll teach you everything you need to know. You'll have a great time and make a difference for your school!
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Almond Community Service - Meal Packaging Event for Rise Against Hunger
Join us for a fun and hands-on community service event, great for the whole family! We will be packing meals of dried beans, rice, vitamins and dehydrated vegetables to support Rise Against Hunger, a wonderful nonprofit organization dedicated to relieving hunger in developing countries.
When: Saturday, September 29th, 3:30pm to 5pm
Where: Los Altos United Methodist Church - Creekside Center
655 Magdalena Avenue, Los Altos
RSVP: Please RSVP by September 25th to Polly Liu at polly@beau-coup.com and indicate number of people attending. All ages welcome. Please note that this is not a drop off event.
School Site Council
If you love learning more about data, boy I have the group for you! Specifics about how students are performing and how the staff is addressing needs is what the School Site Council addresses. Not only do we look at data, we also plan how we address scores and communicate this to our community. More information about the School Site Council
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Community News and Events
LASD Board of Trustees Candidate Forum
The League of Women Voters candidate forum for the Los Altos School District Board of Trustees will be held on Thursday, September 27, from 7:00-8:30p in the Orchard Room of the Los Altos Library (13 N. San Antonio Road, Los Altos). The candidates will share their vision for the school district and answer questions from the audience. This event will be recorded and will be available to watch following the event at www.lwvlamv.org.
This event is presented by the League of Women Voters of Los Altos Mountain View, the Los Altos Library, and the Los Altos Mountain View AAUW. The League of Women Voters is a nonprofit organization, committed to providing voters with unbiased information which they can use to make informed choices. The League does not support or oppose candidates for public office.
From the City of Los Altos:
El Monte Avenue Sidewalk Gap Closure Project - Public Meeting and Complete Streets Commission (CSC) Meeting on September 26, 2018
An Open House has been scheduled at the Community Chambers at City Hall on Wednesday, September 26, 2018, from 6-7pm to provide information and gather input regarding the El Monte Avenue Sidewalk Gap Closure project. This Safe Routes to School project is intended to improve pedestrian safety for the many local school children traveling along El Monte Avenue as they walk to and from school. The project limits extend between Almond Avenue to the north and Clark Avenue to the south. The project includes the addition of a five-foot wide decomposed granite pedestrian pathway with pressure treated wood header on the west side, storm drain improvements, ADA compliant curb ramps, high visibility crosswalks, and a rectangular rapid flashing beacon (RRFB) at Almond Avenue and Mills Avenue. Parking on the west side of El Monte Avenue between Almond and Higgins Avenues will be eliminated as part of this project.
Staff and the design consultant will be available to provide information, answer questions and receive feedback at the Open House. The Complete Streets Commission (CSC) will hold its regular meeting following the Open House at 7pm. The CSC is scheduled to receive an update on the project and the public is welcome to attend to gather information and provide input on the project.
Crosswalk Intersection Improvment Projects
The City of Los Altos will soon begin street repairs throughout the city, and your commute to Almond may be affected. If you would like more information on these projects around Los Altos, please visit the City website atwww.losaltosca.gov. Look for the following project updates under City Projects on the website homepage:
“Street Resurfacing” Project TS-01001
“Street Slurry Seal” Project TS-01004
“City Alley Resurfacing” Project TS-01009
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After School Programs
Winter Fashion Accessory Design, At Almond!
Dream it, design it and then DO it with 3DKids Academy, in this all new twist on our popular fashion accessory program. We'll design and sew some cozy fleece accessories to warm up those long winter months, then throw in some jewelry making and other projects as time permits. Students will absorb lessons in design, color theory, composition, and construction techniques, including hand and machine sewing, embellishing, and more. Most importantly, we'll have fun!!!
Tuesdays, 3:00-4:30PM Grades 2-6
January 23-April 4 (no class 2/20, 3/13)
(Supervision provided from 2:40)
$300 includes all supplies, material and instruction.
Space is limited. Sign up online at https://www.3dkids.academy/
Dear Almond families:
I am happy to share that over 60 Almond families joined us last night at our Family Literacy Night event in the Almond library! I saw second graders reading favorite books with their grandparents, third graders teaching kindergartners the rules of game play and our youngest friends “writing in the air” by dictating their own stories to an adult. Rasheed and Mabel, our K-1 furry friends, were the stars of the night! Families were engaged in many activities covering the four major areas of balanced literacy (reading, writing, speaking and listening) such as the:
- Reading Goals area (reading)
- Storyboarding station (writing)
- Literacy Games room (speaking and listening)
- Headbands Huddle (speaking and listening)
Sticking with the school-wide theme of TEAMwork (Together Everyone Achieves More), students were encouraged to collaborate with each other and their families to lift the level of their thinking through play. We heard a lot of positive feedback about the event and are planning on coordinating another night this school year. Look out for the invite!
Want to know more about how you can support your child at home? Here is a one page info sheet on Ways parents can support reading and writing at home. Curious about the research behind the beneficial impact of reading? Look here: 9 reasons to read more.
I also wanted to say a HUGE thank you to Jill Croft, our literacy Instructional Support Teacher, who coordinated this wonderful event for our community. And thank you to our teachers and staff that also supported this event with the gift of your time.
Here’s to many more Almond family engagement events to come!
Raquel
UPCOMING DATES
- Friday, Sept. 21, Staff Development, No School
- Monday, Sept. 24, Photo Re-takes, 8:30-12
- Wednesday, Sept. 26, PTA General Meeting, 8:35, Multi
- Friday, Sept. 28, Vision Screening for students in K, 2 and 5
- Wed, Oct 10, International Walk to School Day (details TBD)
- Oct 8-12, 6th graders at Walden West
- Oct 11-17, Scholastic Book Fair
- Sat, Oct 13, Almond Walkathon and Silent Auction!
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LAEF
Our annual LAEF Phonathon is coming up on October 2nd and 3rd. If you haven't yet made a donation, please donate or pledge today and Save Us a Call!
With a goal of $3.5M, every donation of any amount is appreciated. LAEF strives for 100% participation from all of our families.
- Read the full scoop on how your child will benefit from LAEF this school year.
- Watch a 2-minute video and find out why our public schools need your financial support.
Sign up to help with the Phonathon at LAEFonline.org and help us raise over $500,000. It’s a fantastic opportunity to build community spirit and educate families about the teachers and staff that LAEF is funding at your school this year.
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PTA Updates
You can now register your child for the Walkathon and order themed T-shirts with student’s names for the students as well as your entire family. To ensure the correct size of the t-shirt, pre-order them by September 23. Some of you have already registered and ordered the t-shirts. For those who haven’t yet, we encourage you to register soon, order t-shirts and book your calendar for Saturday, October 13th from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm for the Walkathon.
We are still looking for more donations for the Silent Auction that takes place during the Walkathon! Please consider donating event tickets, hosting a party, or loaning your vacation home. If you have any questions or need donation ideas, please contact Stefanie Friedland at stefsein@gmail.com.
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Other School Updates
Parking lot safety:
As a reminder, we ask that you GO SLOWLY through our parking lot. Students should enter and exit the cars on the passenger side only. Make eye contact or wave to each other before proceeding, and take the extra time to be safe. This may mean leaving your house a few minutes earlier. We want everyone to get to their destinations safely!
After school, please remind your student to stay on the sidewalk while waiting for their driver, and to only cross in the crosswalk with our crossing guard's protection. They should not be walking around the parking lot looking for their car.Please share all safety information with your child’s after-school drivers.
Vision Screening:
The District Nurses will be doing vision screening, for both near- and far-sightedness, at Almond School for all Kindergarten, 2nd, and 5th grades on September 28th, 2018. If your child has glasses or contacts, please make sure that they wear them to school on the day of the screening. LASD Health Services will mail a referral form to the parents of students who do not pass the vision screening.
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Cub Scouts Open Enrollment
It is not too late to sign up for Cub Scouts this year. Anyone from 1st grade up to 4th grade can sign up for Scouts at Almond. Each den in the pack is grade focused and only includes kids from that grade. We have a great schedule of events from hiking and camping to rocket shoots, pinewood derby races and more. Email info@pack77.com for more information or check out our website at www.pack77.com for details. Our next event is the annual start of the year campfire for the whole pack at the Lucie Stern Community Center in Palo Alto as well as a Saturday night Cub/Parent Weekend campout at Boulder Creek. Check the calendar for details and times.
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Post an Announcement in the Thursday Word? If you have an announcement to include in the Thursday Word, please send it to AlmondThursdayWord@
Dear Almond Families,
During the past week every student at Almond listened to the story, The Dot, and reflected on what it means to trust in yourself and not be afraid to “Make your Mark” on the world. With that idea in mind, each student then cut and decorated a feather, some adding fun symbols and etchings and others writing positive messages on their feathers. The culminating display is breathtaking: Almond Eagle Wings Project
I hope you have had the opportunity to take a picture of your child standing with the wings stretched out behind them. It’s hard not to want to insert yourself in that fun, small space in between. If you haven’t found the time yet, please note that we will be taking the wings down before our long weekend so that we may find a more permanent place to exhibit our school-wide project. (If you have any creative ideas, please email me at rmatteroli@lasdschools.org to share. The project spans about 18 feet across).
If you would like to find out more about The Dot and the international movement behind the message, you can click here: International Dot Day
A huge thank you to Jill Croft, our Literacy IST, for leading that project!
Here’s to believing in yourself and making your mark,
Raquel
UPCOMING DATES
- Tomorrow, Aug. 31: Minimum Day: 12:15 pm dismissal
- Sept. 3: Labor Day/No School
- Sept. 12: PTA Board Meeting, 8:35, Conference Room
- Sept. 12: Family Literacy Night, 6-7:30, Library
- Sept. 21: Staff Development Day/No School For Students
- Sept. 24: Photo Re-takes, 8:30-10:00
Sept. 26: PTA General Meeting, 8:30, Multi
PARKING LOT ETIQUETTE
- Pull your car close to one ahead of you before letting students out. This leaves more room for other cars to enter drive through.
- Please have students exit on the passenger side only.
- No drop off/pick up at the 2nd lane!
- Drivers MUST stay in car at all times.
- Please use the crosswalk, and be aware of traffic. Walking while using your cell phone can be dangerous!
- Bikes and scooters must be walked as soon as they are on campus.
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 add registrar@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 OPEN NOW!
Complete your family’s registration in the back to school system any time between August 18th and September 14th. Log in via THIS link.
SCHOOL START and END TIMES
Transitional Kinder, M/T/W/F = 8:45am – 2:45pm*, 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 8/22 – 9/17 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.
Here is a link to a file you can download and print.
Hot Lunch – Our vendor is 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.
PTA Back To School system now available
Please register for the Almond Back To School System. During this process you can provide family contact information, signup for volunteer opportunities, and complete PTA and LAEF donations. Every little bit counts! This is a great way to stay connected with the Almond community and support all of the wonderful programs your children enjoy.
Please complete your family’s registration any time between now and September 14th. This is a different registration system than the infosnap process that registers your child for school.
Log in via this link.
LAEF welcomes you to the 2018-19 School Year!
We are proud to support the Los Altos School District (LASD) to provide a well-rounded education for your student. This school year, LAEF is funding teachers and staff for STEM, Wellness, Literacy, and Arts at your school.
Check out our video “LAEF Supports your School” (2 min.). Enjoy photos of LASD students participating in LAEF funded programs. Learn about the benefits of LAEF and see how your support for LAEF can bring school to life for your child, whether it be through PE, computer science, music, or an art docent lesson.
Parents are encouraged to donate $1,200 per student for this school year. We welcome donations of any amount. Our goal is $3.5 million and 100% participation. Visit LAEFonline.org to learn more about LAEF and Donate or Pledge Today!
Become a LIVING CLASSROOM docent... share your love of nature with kids!
Do you like connecting kids with nature and teaching them where our food comes from? Want to make a difference for our planet and promote environmental stewardship? If so, 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 Docent Training will take place at the Los Altos School District iLearn Studio on Monday mornings from 9-Noon starting September 10th (apprentice-style training also available for those who cannot attend Monday morning trainings). Click HERE to view our docent training flyer. Questions? Email us atlivingclassroom@lasdschools.
Post an Announcement in the Thursday Word? If you have an announcement to include in the Thursday Word, please send it to AlmondThursdayWord@
LASD WANTS YOU!
Have you thought about being a Substitute teacher?
Substitute Teacher Training –September 27th 9am-12:00
No Cost $$
The Silicon Valley economy is doing well and unemployment is quite low. For LASD, this means fewer people interested in substitute teaching. We are looking for parents who would be interested in helping our schools by becoming a substitute teacher. We realize this may initially sound a bit unnerving, but it is actually a wonderful way to learn more about the learning of our students. You can choose your schedule, working as often or as little as you would like as well as at the schools of your choosing. We conducted this training in 2017 and had terrific feedback and results with our new substitutes. We could really use your help, so please consider the opportunity.
If you would consider joining our substitute teaching pool, we are offering a free mini-training hosted by our Human Resource & Curriculum Departments. Mark your calendars for Thursday,September 27th from 9am-12:00pm. For more information click the link here and/ or contact Erin Green, Director of Student and Staff Services egreen@lasdschools.
Announcing the 2018-2019 MVLA Parent Education Speaker Series
The MVLA Parent Education Speaker Series is excited to announce our speaker line-up for the 2018-2019 school year. Six nationally and internationally recognized experts will join us to discuss a wide range of topics including – navigating today’s college search process and financial aid options; exploring the crucial impact of sleep on the wellness and success of children and teens; raising resilient kids in a stressful world; fostering increased well-being; engaging the power of self-compassion; and optimizingthe college experience to prepare young adults for the jobs of tomorrow.
Finding the Right Fit College at the Right Price, Lynn O’Shaughnessy
September 11, 2018 – 7pm – MVHS Spartan Theatre. Register at Eventbrite
Sleep: Crucial Key to Wellness and Success, Rafael Pelayo, M.D.
October 23, 2018 – 7pm – LAHS Eagle Theater
Raising Resilient Kids in a Stressful World, Katie Hurley, L.C.S.W.
November 29, 2018 – 7pm – LAHS Eagle Theater
The Myths of Happiness: The Science and Practice of Increasing Well-being, Sonja Lyubomirsky, Ph.D.
January 29, 2019 – 7pm – MVHS Spartan Theatre
Self-compassion: The Surprising Power of Being Kind to Yourself, Kristin Neff, Ph.D.
March 7, 2019 – 7 pm – LAHS Eagle Theater
There is Life After College: Navigating School to Prepare for the Jobs of Tomorrow, Jeff Selingo
April 9, 2019 – 7pm – MVHS Spartan Theatre
Please visit the MVLA Parent Education Speaker Series [mvlaspeakerseries.org]
Dear Almond Families,
These past two days have been filled with many smiles, words of welcome and joy. It was a lot of fun to pull all of the students into the multi yesterday for our kick-off-the-year assemblies. We talked about our year-long theme of TEAMwork (Together Everyone Achieves More) and how we can accomplish so much more working as a team than we can alone. We reviewed playground expectations so that we all hold a consistent message of safety, proper use of equipment and fun! We watched a sweet and silly message from Kid President about "20 Things We Should Say More Often." In the spirit of teamwork, I shared that the entire student body at Almond will be participating in school-wide projects each month. We have one currently underway and are excited to share it with you next Tuesday at Back to School Night. Stay tuned! But the most important message I wanted to leave with your children was a sense of belonging and community. Almond school belongs to the students, the staff, the families and the community. Working together, we can continue to make it a place of learning and growth.
For a little family fun, you can watch this again with your child: 20 Things We Should Say More Often.
Here’s to a sense of belonging!
Raquel
UPCOMING DATES
- Aug. 24, 8:30 am - First Morning Assembly (changed back to Fridays)
- Aug. 24, 6:00 pm - New Family Orientation led by Principal
- Aug. 24, 7:00 pm - Back to School Ice Cream Social
- Aug. 28 - Back to School Night
- Aug. 29 & 30 - Pictures Days
- Aug. 31: Minimum Day: 12:15 pm dismissal
- Sept. 3: Labor Day/No School
- Sept. 21: Staff Development Day/No School For Students
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Welcome to the Thursday Word- Almond’s weekly newsletter which goes out to our families on Thursdays. The Thursday Word contains important information so please be sure to read it weekly.
Visitor Sign-Ins: If you are going to be on campus at times other than drop-off and pick-up, you MUST sign in at the office. Please put on a GREEN visitor tag or teal volunteer lanyard so that staff knows you have signed in. If we don’t see a green nametag on you or a volunteer lanyard, please don’t be offended if we ask you to retrieve one at the office. This is a safety issue so we know who is on the campus.
Arrival and departure at school: We ask that no student be on campus before 8:15am each day. Supervision of the campus begins at 8:15. We also ask that all students clear the campus by 3:10pm- unless working with a teacher, at an after-school club, or DIRECTLY supervised by an adult. Directly supervised is defined as within close proximity of the student.
Playground Safety and Expectations: Staff has spent time familiarizing students with playground rules and expectations. A list of those rules and expectations can be found here. Since the rules are based on safety, we ask that students follow these rules before and after school as well- not just at recess and lunch.
Hot Lunch Volunteers:
We are still in need of Hot Lunch Servers. Please consider offering your time to help us out!
Please share all of this information to any child care providers you may be using- as the Thursday Word only goes to our families enrolled at Almond.
Back to School Night is next Tuesday, August 28th. Please join us that night and listen to your child’s teacher share information about the year ahead. The schedule is:
- 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)
Look for information from your individual teacher regarding location as some grade levels will meet in either the library or multi. Hope to see you all there! This is an adults only evening.
SCHOOL START and END TIMES
Transitional Kinder, M/T/W/F = 8:45am – 2:45pm*, 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 8/22 – 9/17 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.
Here is a link to a file you can download and print.
Hot Lunch – Our vendor is 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 is open at this link [https://pastamarket.boonli.
New Family Orientation - Friday, August 24th, 6:00pm – 6:30pm
All families new to Almond (kindergarten and others) are invited to join Principal Matteroli and the PTA for a brief presentation, Q&A session in the multi.
Back to School Ice Cream Social - Friday, August 24th, 7:00pm
All Almond families are invited to the Almond playground for FREE ice cream sundaes served by the Almond PTA.
PTA Back To School system now available
Please register for the Almond Back To School System. During this process you can provide family contact information, sign up for volunteer opportunities, and complete PTA and LAEF donations. Every little bit counts! This is a great way to stay connected with the Almond community and support all of the wonderful programs your children enjoy.
Please complete your family’s registration any time between now and September 14th. This is a different registration system than the infosnap process that registers your child for school.
Log in via this link.
Los Altos Educational Foundations (LAEF) welcomes you to the 2018-19 School Year!
We are proud to support Almond and to provide a well-rounded education for your student this school year. This school year, with your support, LAEF will fund teachers and staff for STEM, Wellness, Literacy, and Arts. Whether your student’s favorite part of the day is PE, art, music, STEM, computer science or library, your donations to LAEF help make it possible.
Parents are encouraged to donate $1,200 per student to LAEF this school year. We welcome and encourage donations of any amount. Our goal is 100% participation from our parent community. Visit LAEFonline.org to learn more about LAEF and Donate Today!
Become a LIVING CLASSROOM docent... share your love of nature with kids!
Do you like connecting kids with nature and teaching them where our food comes from? Want to make a difference for our planet and promote environmental stewardship? If so, 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 Docent Training will take place at the Los Altos School District iLearn Studio on Monday mornings from 9-Noon starting September 10th (apprentice-style training also available for those who cannot attend Monday morning trainings). Want to learn more about our program? Please consider attending our upcoming Informational Meeting from 10-11am on Monday 8/27 at the LASD iLearn Studio located at 201 Covington Road, Los Altos. Please spread the word and bring a friend! Click HERE to view our docent training flyer. Questions? Email us at livingclassroom@lasdschools.
Post an Announcement in the Thursday Word? If you have an announcement to include in the Thursday Word, please send it to AlmondThursdayWord@
Community Announcements:
Your Kids Can Thrive in aFast-Changing World
A workshop presented by Ashoka, a global non-profit organization dedicated to helping society develop the next generation oF changemakers.
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How do you instill empathy, hope, and possibility in your child?
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How can we help the young people we care about find their power?
At Ashoka, we believe that the experience of changemaking, or working empathetically with a team to solve a problem, is the answer to these questions. When children and adults master the skills of empathy, leadership, teamwork and changemaking, they are realizing their own power to catalyze change; learning that the status quo can be challenged; and discovering that our collective success increasingly depends on our ability to be changemakers.
Join with people throughout our community to further explore how to create a community culture that supports children and adults to be changemakers. We will also be exploring the need to re-imagine parenting for the 21st Century.
WHEN: Friday, August 24, 2018
6pm Appetizers
6:30-8:30 Event
WHERE: Los Altos United Methodist Church, Creekside Center
655 Magdalena Ave
Los Altos, CA 94024
Childcare provided
Please register at http://bit.ly/
ALMOND THURSDAY WORD
June 7, 2018
UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER
- Thursday, 6/7
- Minimum Day Dismissal - 11:30am
- Wednesday, 8/22 (First Day of 2018-19 School Year)
PRINCIPAL MESSAGE
Dearest Almond Community,
Thank you for the opportunity to serve you these past five years! Today is not goodbye, it is...until we meet again.
Here is a link to the amazing “This Is Me” flash mob that the staff and students organized. That moment in time will remain one that I treasure in my collection of memories. Thank you again for this gift!
Following is my address to this year’s 6th graders as they prepare to embark on their next adventure.
It has been one of the greatest privileges of my life to know each of you.
The highlight of my days has been greeting you by name, peering into those beautiful eyes of yours, and offering you a smile.
Why greet you by name?
Because it communicates that YOU matter and that YOU are important enough to remember.
Why look into your eyes?
Because by doing so I can read your emotions, gain insight into how you’re feeling, and better understand you.
Why send you a smile?
Because within each of us is light, goodness, and love. A smile is one way for me to send the light and love in my heart to you. It’s my way of wishing you the most wonderful day ever!
Over the years, we’ve laughed together, played together, learned together, and danced together. Through all of that, some of us have had a couple of opportunities to work through some challenges together. Whether they were difficulties with friends, hurdles around school work, or maybe something different altogether - we’ve chatted and problem solved. I recently stumbled upon a quote from Viola Davis, one of my all time favorite actors, that I think every young person would benefit from considering.
“They tell you to develop a thick skin so things don’t get to you. What they don’t tell you is that your thick skin will keep everything from getting out, too. Love, intimacy, vulnerability. - I don’t want that. Thick skin doesn’t work anymore. I want to be transparent and translucent. For that to work, I won’t own other people’s shortcomings and criticisms. - I won’t put what you say about me on my load.”
There are 80 of you standing before us today. Eighty individual, magnificent, original, and brilliant human beings who have greatness in you to contribute to a more abundant world. Know your worth. Believe in yourselves. Filter out the noise. Follow your hearts. Be brave. Color outside the lines. Take risks. And as you do all of this...listen to the one, single person who matters most and who will be with you for your entire life. Yourself.
Congratulations sixth grade class of 2018! Keep SOARING!!!
Know that I am always on your team,
Erika Benadom
PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW
SCHOOL SUPPLIES FOR 2018-19, SCHOOLPAK!
- It's that time of year for you to purchase the prepackaged school supplies from SchoolPak! If you purchase before June 8th, your school supplies will be shipped to the school and delivered to your child's classroom before their first day. We provide this service since it should reduce your school supply costs by over 25% if you were to go buy on your own.
- Here's the link: https://www.schoolpak.com/
catalog/almond-elementary - If you would prefer to get the supplies on your own, you can go to the website and select the grade you are interested in, and scroll down - you will see the complete list of items.
- If you any questions, please do not hesitate to email me. Thanks! Darin, SchoolPak Coordinator, darinpmedeiros@gmail.com
MAGICAL BRIDGE COIN DRIVE
- Thank you to everyone for contributing to this wonderful cause. Below are the total amounts raised by grade level for a whopping $1,247.61. To determine the highest grossing grade level, we divided by student count. And the winner of the private play date is...KINDERGARTEN!
- TK - $12.58
- K - $ 362.59
- 1 - $126.01
- 2 - $119.62
- 3 - $47.79
- 4 - $437.49
- 5 - $91.53
- 6 - $50.00
LIVING CLASSROOM THANK YOU!
- The Los Altos School District Living Classroom program consists of 37 dedicated volunteers who, along with staff, delivered 482 nature-based garden lessons to approximately 3,600 elementary school children in the Los Altos School District this year. 94% of TK-6 grade classes throughout the district participated in our voluntary program which consists of science, math and social studies lessons that are aligned with Common Core and Next Generation Science Standards and which promote environmental literacy and stewardship as well as healthy eating habits.
- Thank you to Almond parents Renee Boustead, Liesse Jackson, and Aki Watanabe for leading and assisting with so many lessons this year! A big THANK YOU also goes out to all the amazing parents who signed up to help with lessons in their child’s classroom. We could not have done it without you!
- New docents are taught Living Classroom lessons by staff and experienced docents on Monday mornings from September through March. Living Classroom welcomes new members to join the next docent-in-training class in the fall. To learn more, come to our Informational Coffee on Monday, August 27th at 10am in the iLearn Studio at the district office (201 Covington Road, Los Altos).
- For more information, check us out at www.living-classroom.org and/or email livingclassroom@lasdschools.
org. - Thanks and have a wonderful summer! Caroline Chan.
REPEATED ANNOUNCEMENTS
LASD NURSES
- Medications will be available for pick up from Thursday June 7th 2018 (last day of school) until Wednesday June 13th 2018.
- 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.
S.O.A.R. CELEBRATIONS
(listed alphabetically by last name)
- Saanvi Agrawal, 5/31/18, Solving problems, Owning learning, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others. Always listening.
- Seyon Ahn, 5/31/18, Solving problems, Owning learning, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others. Always listening.
- Nickan Arshi, 5/31/18, Solving problems, Owning learning, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others. Inviting friendship.
- Ishaan Bardhan, 5/31/18, Solving problems, Owning learning, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others. Reading and helping classmates spell.
- Cara Buckley, 5/31/18, Solving problems, Owning learning, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others. Keeps on trying to do her best and not giving up!
- Sophie Chan, 5/31/18, Solving problems, Owning learning, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others. Always following directions.
- Zoe Couillaud, 5/31/18, Solving problems, Owning learning, Respecting self and others. Playing with new friends.
- Alex Elovson, 5/31/18, Owning learning. You are truly amazing! You are brave and a complete ROCK STAR! We are all proud of you!
- Sola Endo, 5/31/18, Solving problems, Owning learning, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others. Learned to communicate in English!
- Kyle Hiltgen, 6/1/18, Owning learning, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others. Always has "whole body" listening on the rug. :-)
- Kate Jensen, 5/31/18, Solving problems, Owning learning, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others. Learned to read this year!
- Nate McFarlane, 5/31/18, Solving problems, Owning learning, Respecting self and others. Playing with new friends.
- Alison Park, 5/31/18, Solving problems, Owning learning, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others. Always listening.
- Anya Patel, 5/31/18, Solving problems, Owning learning, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others. Inviting friendship.
- Ayan Patel, 5/31/18, Solving problems, Owning learning, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others. Listening and staying focused.
- Gissel Plantillas, 6/1/18, Owning learning, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others. Always having "whole body" listening on the rug.
- Ivy Taylor, 5/31/18, Solving problems, Owning learning, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others. Learned to read this year!
- Vikram Thvar, 5/31/18, Solving problems, Owning learning, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others. Inviting friendship.
- Nathaniel Wang, 5/31/18, Solving problems, Owning learning, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others. Working well with others.
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
May 31, 2018
UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER
- Friday, 6/1, Minimum Day - Dismissal at 12:15pm
- Tuesday, 6/5
- TK/K CSMA Parent Concert (1pm, Multi)
- Gr. 1 - 3 CSMA Parent Concert (2pm, Multi)
- Thursday, 6/7
- Last Day of School
- Morning Assembly (8:30am, Multi)
- 6th Grade Promotion (8:45am doors open for seating, 9:00am ceremony begins)
- Minimum Day Dismissal - 11:30am
PRINCIPAL MESSAGE
My stream of thoughts during this morning’s assembly...
“Interesting. There are kids wearing tutus. I wonder why? My goodness there are lots of Walkathon shirts. Did I miss the memo? Ladders? Why couldn’t Manuel tell me why they’re out here. Wow, there are lots of parents here to see Mrs. Matteroli. That’s awesome. I hope she gets a super warm welcome. It’s time to present her with the balloons and present? Where’s Kristin? I don’t see her. Why can’t I get a hold of anyone in the office on the walkie? Where is Kristin? Oh, there she is. Hey, is that my husband? Why is he here? Stay focused Erika. Stall for the balloons. Jokes. The kids always love to tell their jokes. Alright. Almost done. Time for the pledge. Oh that’s right, the 6th graders are going to present a class gift. Wait a minute...the whole 6th grade is presenting? What is Anju doing with a purple cape? What is going on? OMG! Alex is rapping to Glorious. He’s so killing it. Is this what the first graders were so excited about? Stay present. Pay attention. Teachers with wigs. Hey, I remember that move from ‘Born This Way.’ Is that Jenny Eldridge dancing front and center? This IS the surprise. There’s more?!?!? The little ones are joining in. Swallow those tears Erika...you have kindergartners behind you. Ohhhh, and the TK students are here too. That’s right. They wanted to meet the new principal. Mary is here too. Oh Mary - she helped me prep for so many crazy assembly ideas. I can’t hold it in. This is so beautiful. Look at their faces. They are so proud. Their smiles go from ear to ear. They’ve been working so hard for this. They have been keeping this surprise for so long. They are awesome!!! I am THE luckiest person in the Universe to have had the opportunity to be their principal. THE luckiest. The kids. This staff. We’ve had SO much fun together. I will miss them. All of them. I will carry each and every one of these extraordinary little and big people in my heart forever. Forever!”
Student Homeroom Placement
As mentioned in an earlier newsletter, teachers are working together creating groups of students without any associated teacher. In 2018-19 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. The principal will assign teachers to the various groups, monitor each and every homeroom list, and make all final decisions regarding placement. Homeroom placement information will be communicated via email with parents the Friday before school starts in August (08/17/18).
Updates Regarding Staff Departures for the 2018-19 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.
- Jenny Wishnack (4th grade) will be retiring.
- Sauro Manganelli (tech specialist) will be retiring.
- Manuel Casino (daytime custodian) will be retiring.
- Rachel Doblick (2nd grade) will be a Literacy Instructional Support Teacher at Loyola.
- Laura Better (5th grade) will be teaching in Belmont, closer to home.
- Allison Aubrey (6th grade) will be moving to Tennessee.
- Kristin Clouser (school psychologist) will be working at Los Gatos High School, closer to home.
- Elizabeth Leach (STEM teacher) will be a LASD Coordinator of Curriculum & Instruction at the district office.
Teaching Roster for 2018-19
- Transitional Kindergarten: Lisa Schubert
- Kindergarten: Leanne Kridl, Laurie Lamb, Joan O’Dell
- First Grade: Jenny Eldridge, Savanna Goltzer, Samantha Nguyen
- Second Grade: Rachel Gassner, Brianna Lopez, Tammy Reilly
- Third Grade: Sarah Hall, Joann Martinez
- Fourth Grade: Annie Daggett, Kelsey Greene, Emily Simon
- Fifth Grade: Vicki Burke, Kathy Day-Bobb, Kaitlyn Pasket
- Sixth Grade: Jasen Stuart, Anju Vriksha, TBD
- Instructional Support Teacher (IST), STEM: TBD
- 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
- Brianna Lopez (2nd grade) - I taught 5th grade for two years in San Carlos and am overjoyed to take on a new role as a 2nd grade teacher. This will be my third year teaching and the time is flying by. Teaching 2nd grade has always been a dream of mine, I'm excited to have the chance to make my dream a reality. Literacy is my passion and I love teaching students how to find a love for reading. When I am not teaching I like to spend time with my family, friends and my dog, Toby. Toby is very energetic and enjoys going on long runs with me. I am working on my Master's Degree in Primary Reading, which is taking up most of my free time. I will finish my Master's in August and I'm looking forward to having more time to enjoy the school year.
- Emily Simon (4th grade) - I am so excited to be joining the Almond community in 4th grade! I just finished my first year teaching in Los Altos at Covington in 2nd grade. I grew up next door in Palo Alto, and I love teaching in a community (and climate) so near and dear to my home. I started to love teaching at my first job with Galileo Learning in the Bay Area, but have taught all over including Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, and schools in the Greater Boston Area. I used to teach middle school drama in Boston, and I love incorporating theater across disciplines to engage students in the fun of learning. I am looking forward to meeting the parents, staff, and students that make Almond an incredible community of learners.
- Kathy Day-Bobb (5th grade) - I am a 27-year teaching veteran having taught all grade levels, two years of college, and have spent over fifteen years of my career in this district. Teaching 5th grade at Santa Rita for the last several years has been my last assignment. I am passionate about engaging students in the learning process with their peers while they grow as individuals. In my personal life, I spend time exercising, socializing with friends and traveling, when I can. I like to spend time with my 25-year-old daughter who lives in Minneapolis near my seven siblings living in Iowa. I am excited for a new learning and teaching adventure here at Almond.
PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW
MESSAGE FROM LASD BOARD OF TRUSTEES
- LASD’s Board of Trustees is seeking community perspectives regarding the plan for the proposed new school site—and they would love to hear from you!
- Next week, the district will launch a ThoughtExchange, an online forum where you can share community perspectives. The online forum is convenient, easy to use and confidential—and I hope you will participate. You will receive an emailed invitation to participate, or you may pre-register here. Visit ThoughtExchange to learn more or email support@thoughtexchange.com. Learn more about LASD’s progress in obtaining a new school site here.
- Thank you for supporting our students.
LAEF: We’re in the home stretch!
Help us raise the final $100K to fully fund teachers at your school this year. A gift of $50, $100 or even $300 will make a difference! It's not too late to donate or apply for a corporate match. Donate now.
LAST JAMBA JUICE SALE - Thursday and Friday!
Almond's 6th graders will have their final Jamba Juice sale after school on Thursday, May 31 and Friday, June 1 in the Rotunda. The all-fruit 10 oz smoothies will cost $4, and the proceeds will be donated to a Santa Rosa elementary school. The fires destroyed 140 students' homes as well as the school's K-2 grade classrooms and library.
SCHOOL SUPPLIES FOR 2018-19, SCHOOLPAK!
- It's that time of year for you to purchase the prepackaged school supplies from SchoolPak! If you purchase before June 8th, your school supplies will be shipped to the school and delivered to your child's classroom before their first day. We provide this service since it should reduce your school supply costs by over 25% if you were to go buy this yourselves.
- Here's the link: https://www.schoolpak.com/
catalog/almond-elementary - If you would prefer to get the supplies on your own, you can go to the website and select the grade you are interested in, and scroll down - you will see the complete list of items.
- If you any questions, please do not hesitate to email me. Thanks! Darin, SchoolPak Coordinator, darinpmedeiros@gmail.com
STUDENT COUNCIL
- We have very much enjoyed being your Student Council Officers. We can’t believe that it is the end of the school year! Thank you so much for an amazing year!
- We also can't wait to see what your class has come up with for our final spirit day, Homeroom Challenge, on Wednesday, June 6th!
REPEATED ANNOUNCEMENTS
LASD NURSES
- Medications will be available for pick up from Thursday June 7th 2018 (last day of school) until Wednesday June 13th 2018.
- 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.
S.O.A.R. CELEBRATIONS
(listed alphabetically by last name)
- Brooke Anderson, 5/30/18, Owning learning. Being an active participant in her problem-solving group. Mrs. Burke :-)
- Liliana Aliashvili, 5/20/18, Respecting self and others. Helped store PE gear.
- Ruby Border, 5/25/18, Owning learning. Never hesitates to ask questions or to ask for help on challenging math problems. Mrs. Burke :-)
- Chloe Caldbeck, 5/30/18, Respecting self and others. Put away PE equipment.
- Aiden Cwik, 5/30/18, Always making good choices. Consistently having "whole body listening" on the rug! :-)
- Axel Edin, 5/29/18, Owning learning, 5/29/18. Working well with a peer and engaging the peer in decision making on an activity in Problem Solving rotation.
- Ben Elkin, 5/30/18, Respecting self and others. Helped with PE gear.
- Juliana Enos, 5/20/18, Respecting self and others. Helped put away PE equipment.
- Ayumi Ikeda, 5/30/18, Owning learning. Ayumi always goes above and beyond in her assignments and is always ready to learn. <3 Mrs. Reilly :-)
- Karen Izaguirre, 5/30/18, Respecting self and others. Helped put away PE equipment.
- Prisha Jain, 5/30/18, Always making good choices. Prisha is always willing to help out in the classroom and help others. She was especially helpful during Open House time! <3 Mrs. Reilly :-)
- Sophia May, 5/30/18, Always making good choices. Consistently having "whole body listening" on the rug! :-)
- Sameer Mishra, 5/24/18, Owning learning, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others. You are helpful and know what to do without being asked.
- Benjamin Park, 5/30/18, Owning learning. Consistently uses Math Talk Stems in Problem Solving. Mrs. Burke :-)
- Maliha Parmar, 5/30/18, Solving problems, Owning learning, Always making good choices, Respecting self and others. Maliha is always making great choices and is kind to others! <3 Mrs. Reilly :-)
- Ayumu Sano, 5/30/18, Owning learning. Ayumu has worked really hard to learn English and interact with others. <3 Mrs. Reilly :-)
- Maggie Wang, 5/30/18, Owning learning. Maggie is always taking detailed notes in math and pushing herself to succeed. <3 Mrs. Reilly :-)
- Addison Wolcott, 5/30/18, Respecting self and others. Helped pick up PE gear.
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
May 24, 2018
UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER
- Thursday, 5/24
- Open House
- Class Visits, 6pm - 7pm
- Volunteer Appreciation from Staff on Blacktop, 7:05pm - 7:15pm
- Open House
- Friday, 5/25
- Superhero Spirit Day
- Minimum Day - Dismissal at 12:15pm
- Monday, 5/28, Holiday - NO SCHOOL
- Tuesday, 5/29, 4th Grade Instrument Quest (5pm - 7pm, Covington Multi)
- Wednesday, 5/30, 4th Grade Instrument Quest (5pm - 7pm, Covington Multi)
- Thursday, 5/31
- Introduction of Principal Matteroli to Students @ Morning Assembly
- School Coffee following assembly in Multi to Welcome Principal Matteroli
- Friday, 6/1, Minimum Day - Dismissal at 12:15pm
- Tuesday, 6/5
- TK/K CSMA Parent Concert (1pm, Multi)
- Gr. 1 - 3 CSMA Parent Concert (2pm, Multi)
- Thursday, 6/7
- Last Day of School
- Morning Assembly (8:30am, Multi)
- 6th Grade Promotion (8:45am doors open for seating, 9:00am ceremony begins)
- Minimum Day Dismissal - 11:30am
PRINCIPAL MESSAGE
This week our PTA honored parent volunteers who gave given a tremendous amount of their time to make Almond the extraordinary place that it is. Here is a document that lists the service of many. Thank you to all. (Please forgive us if we missed anyone.)
While so very many support in countless ways, there are 10 individuals to whom I would like to express personal gratitude. These people shoulder great responsibility by taking on PTA Board Member roles which entail an ongoing offering of service throughout the year. It has been a blessing to work alongside each of you.
PTA 2017-18 Board: President – Rachel Harnish, VP/Secretary – Marcsi Elovson, Treasurer – Lori Sevcik, VP of Communications – Amy Mendenhall, Historian – Tammy Reilly, Parliamentarian – Jon Meyer, VP of Technology - Wayne Crosby, VP of Membership - Alix Apfelberg, Financial Secretary - Michelle Park, Auditor - Darren Crawford.
At this time, I’d also like to highlight two parents, one current Almond parent, and one former: Jennifer Walker and Julie Watson. These two amazing women were celebrated by the country Project Cornerstone organization for their above and beyond dedication to the social emotional learning of our children. Thank you for giving so much of yourselves.
There are many of you who might not have appeared on a list yet you have made Almond School a welcoming, wonderful place because of your giving and compassionate hearts. Join us at 7:05pm on the blacktop after Open House classroom visits so that we may gift you a token of gratitude.
PTA & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS - NEW
STUDENT COUNCIL
- We can’t wait for superhero day tomorrow! We can’t wait to see everyone in their super outfits!
- We are very excited to tell you our last spirit day of the year is…HOMEROOM CHALLENGE! This means that your class individually will get to choose your own spirit day! It's going be so fun to see everyone in their amazing ideas from their homeroom. Our last spirit day will be on Wednesday, June 6th!
LOST AND FOUND
Desperate times call for desperate measures. Our heap of clothes became so large we needed to get creative with how to showcase these missing items. Here is a video and our latest tactic. Come by and check out whether any of these ownerless clothes are yours. Next week they’re getting packaged up and shipped to GoodWill.
LAEF: Help us raise the final $175K to fully fund programs at your school this year. A gift of $50, $100 or even $300 will make a difference! It's not too late to donate or apply for a corporate match. Donate now.
BOXTOPS 4 EDUCATION
Collect – BoxTop4education coupons are on the packaging of hundreds of grocery products that you might use every day. When the PTA sends them in, Almond collects money. You can help by cutting off and collecting BoxTops and turn in to the Office! Some BoxTop products: Cheerios, Annie’s products, Gogurt, Green Giant veggies, Ziploc, Hefty, SCOTT and much more!
This is the LAST REMINDER to order the 2017-18 Almond Yearbook!
(Yearbooks were **not** ordered during the Back-to-School Registration, so you need to do it now!) There are 2 easy ways to purchase your copy:
- Order online and pay by credit card - go to this link https://almondpta.squarespace.
com/yearbook/order - 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)
MAGICAL BRIDGE FUNDRAISER
- Magical Bridge is so appreciative of our efforts towards raising funds for Magical Bridge Playground in Mountain View's Rengstorff Park!! So far, our school district community has raised a total of $2,450 in online donations alone!
- We would love to see these numbers go up, so keep spreading the word on our coin drives. Every coin counts!
- Almond has specifically raised $700 via 3 donors! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! Here’s the link to donate more.
SELPA 1 CAC for Special Education has a lot of ideas for the future, and we need your help! We would like to know what events and programs you would like to see for the future. We also plan on a Life Skill workshop on time, money and home management, and we would like you to tell us more about what you would like to see in this workshop. Please take a few minutes to fill out the short surveys below, and be sure to share them with others!
Events and Programs survey:
- English: https://goo.gl/forms/
4gzWE2Y3xqLg22Ra2 - Espanol: https://goo.gl/forms/
hRGVcmqKP5JUfPeM2
Life Skills Management Workshop survey:
- English: https://goo.gl/forms/
zU5iFd6fAbKspsy63 - Espanol: https://goo.gl/forms/
dmqhvV5LZrifEMU43
REPEATED ANNOUNCEMENTS
LASD NURSES
- Medications will be available for pick up from Thursday June 7th 2018 (last day of school) until Wednesday June 13th 2018.
- 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.
Egan's VIKING SHOWCASE is coming on Thursday, May 31! Hi Almond Parents. If you are interested to find out what 8th grade will look like for your children, here is a great volunteer opportunity. The Viking Showcase provides the opportunity for Egan's 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 from LASD, community members, and leaders to volunteer as interviewers.The interview process increases student motivation, builds a sense of accomplishment, and fosters community involvement with the school. Past participants have truly enjoyed this invaluable experience. Please save the date and sign up to volunteer at Viking Showcase Volunteer Sign Up. Sign up with a friend! You can note in your sign up that you want to be paired with a specific interviewer. Questions? Contact Natasha Stirrup at natashastirrup@hotmail.com.
S.O.A.R. CELEBRATIONS
(listed alphabetically by last name)
- Ayda Chaffee, 5/21/18, Respecting self and others. Listening respectfully for all of music class! :-)
- Carys Chiu, 5/22/18, Owning learning. Carys works hard in class and makes fantastic connections between what she learns in class, reads during independent time, and experiences in life. Mr. Stuart & Ms. Aubrey
- Ryan Ghasemfar, 5/22/18, Owning learning, Always making good choices. Ryan is working hard and focusing to finish his work on time!
- Krish Grover, 5/21/18, Respecting self and others. Listening respectfully during music! :-)
- Jonathan Hu, 5/21/18, Owning learning, Respecting self and others. You have mastered your presentation skills. You have also learned how to collaborate will with others. Way to grow! :-)
- Isabelle Hwang, 5/22/18, Owning learning, Always making good choices. Isabell consistently makes good choices. She is focused and dedicated to learning. She produces high quality work and inspires those around her to do the same. Mr. Stuart & Ms. Aubrey
- Tabs Lee, 5/21/18, Owning learning, Respecting self and others. Thank you for being kind and helping others. You are owning your learning by persevering when something is difficult for you. Way to grow! :)
- Ethan Ling, 5/21/18, Solving problems, Owning learning, Respecting self and others. You have been making better choices in class when collaborating with others. Way to grow! :-)
- Nate Mauss, 5/21/18, Owning learning. You are owning your learning by getting all your work in on time. Way to grow! :-)
- Angel Oregon, 5/22/17, Owning learning. You've made HUGE growth on your iReady Math scores!
- Emily Palma, 5/17/18, Owning learning. 76 points of growth on iReady Reading!
- Fiona Tang, 5/22/18, Owning learning, Always making good choices. Fiona is dedicated to learning and demonstrates a strong work ethic. She challenges herself every day and asks questions when she doesn't understand. Mr. Stuart & Ms. Aubrey
- Hayden Taylor, 5/21/18, Owning learning, Always making good choices. Your mindset towards reading has now adjusted to a growth mindset. Way to grow! :-)
- Sabrina Yen-Ko, 5/22/18, Owning learning. Sabrina is fully engaged in class, and asks critical questions. She truly owns her learning and seeks a deep understanding of lessons. Mr. Stuart & Ms. Aubrey
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
[None at this time.]
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.
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