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June 2024 PTA Meeting Minutes

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Takoma Park Elementary School (TPES)
Piney Branch Elementary School (PBES)
Parent & Teacher Meeting (PTA)
Tuesday, June 4, 2024 from 7 – 8pm on Zoom 

Agenda will include: 

(1) Upcoming TPES and PBES dates and announcements

(2) MCPS Summer Reading Challenge Presentation

(3) Takoma Park Middle School PTA Introduction

(4) Treasurer’s reports 

(5) Vote on TPES & PBES Executive Committees for ‘24-’25 School Year

(6) End of Year Statements from Mrs. O & Dr. G.

(7) Q&A

(8) Closing

 

7:00 PM: Meeting Kick-off 

Chris Campbell, PBES VP Communications – Welcome 

  • Intro to topics to be discussed

7:05 PM: Upcoming Dates & Announcements

Claire Dean, TPES VP 

Chris Campbell, PBES VP Communications 

TPES ANNOUNCEMENTS:  Read by Claire Dean, TPES VP 

  • Library books are due! If you have library books still at home, please have your child return them. Check your take home folder for any info on books you may have at home.
  • Second Grade Walking Field Trip to PBES: Wednesday, June 5, 9:30am
    • Second graders will visit Piney Branch Elementary School (PBES) and will leave at 9:30am, so please be sure your child arrives to school on time! 
  • Crossing Guard Appreciation Day: June 5th – The City of Takoma Park will set up tables at the guard posts so students can leave a token of appreciation on their way to school. If you have time to make a card or artwork, please do so to thank the crossing guards that work to keep us all safe. 
  • Second Grade Promotion Save the Date: June 10 at 9:45 AM at TPMS – Second grade families, save the date! 
  • At-Home Chromebooks – If your student has an MCPS at-home Chromebook and they are leaving MCPS, please bring the Chromebook, charger and carrying case back to TPES by June 7th. You can send it in with the student or drop it off at the front office. If they are moving to a different MCPS school or staying at TPES then they can keep the Chromebook at home all summer.
    • 2024-2025 TPES PTA Executive Committee Openings

We need YOU! Yes, YOU! We have several critical positions on our PTA board that must be filled or critical services and funds will be cut. We have not had anyone step up yet! If not you, then please send us an email nominating or recommending someone! The following positions are open:

  • Non-board roles are also vital and many volunteers are aging out of TPES so we have several needs: 
  • NAACP Representative 
  • Room Parent Coordinator 
  • Teacher/Staff Appreciation Committee Co-Chair
  • Social Services Coordinator

Please reach out to Kaitlin Caruso at president@tpespta.net or Clare Dean at vp@tpespta.net if you want to volunteer for the PTA next year

PBES ANNOUNCEMENTS: read by Chris Campbell, PBES VP Communications 

  • Returning Musical Instruments
    • This is a friendly reminder that all Instrumental Music students using a school instrument must return their instrument to Mrs. Pratt by Wednesday, June 5. Students may leave it with Mrs. Pratt at the end of their last class, or leave it on the counter in the Instrumental Music room.
  • PB Jelly Volunteer Needed for Tomorrow
    • Volunteer has been found.
  • Shark Tank Volunteers Needed
    • Fourth grade will be having their 4th annual shark tank assembly on Friday, June 7th from 9:45-10:45am. We are hoping we can recruit two parents/business owners in the community to be judges on the panel. If you are interested please reach out to brogan_plummer@mcpsmd.org for more information
  • Flash Yearbook Sale
    • Next Monday, June 10, 2024, we will hold a Yearbook Flash Sale from 9–9:30am for families who missed the opportunity to purchase a yearbook and would like to do so now. Yearbooks will be sold in the front hallway for $20 on a first come, first serve basis. Please reach out to Java Robinson (java_m_robinson@mcpsmd.org) if you have any questions.
  • MCPS Drive for Supplies
    • Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) and Learn Shop, Inc., have enjoyed a 23-year partnership collecting new and reusable school supplies at the close of the school year and donating these supplies to students and families in need for the start of the next school year. Donations of new or gently used school supplies may be dropped off at the PBES entrance through June 13.
  • 5th Grade Promotion
    • Wednesday, June 12th at 2:00 p.m. Seating is limited so please allow for two guests per student. The Clap Out will be at 3:15 p.m.
    • Volunteers are needed to decorate for the 5th grade promotion! Please reach out to pbes.pta@gmail.com if you are interested in either purchasing supplies or participating in the decoration. 

Huge thank you to our volunteers from this past year.

  • 2024-2025 PBES PTA Executive Committee Openings

7:15 PM: Aphra Adkins: MCPS Summer Reading Challenge for all age groups. Dave Burbank (TKPK Library Associate) was unable to attend this evening.

There is a summer reading challenge through the county:

7:25 PM: TPMS PTA Introduction – Ramata Diop, President TPMS PTA

  • Discussion of open positions and activities over the summer:
  • Open positions for next year:
    • Board Positions: 
      • Fundraising VP
      • Corresponding Secretary (Communications)
      • Membership VP
      • Montgomery County Council Delegate
      • NAACP Parent Council Rep
  • Committee Positions:
    • 6th Grade Welcome Picnic Chair
    • Safe Routes to School Liaison
    • MCCPTA Gifted Talented Committee Liaison
    • MCCPTA Special Needs Committee Liaison
    • International Night Committee Chair
    • Minit Grants Committee Chair
    • Books & Basketball Committee Chair
    • Staff Appreciation

Find out more here:

https://www.tpmspta.org/ptsa-board-elections/

If interested please email tpms.pta.president@gmail.com

 

There will be July and August events for meet and greet for incoming TPMS students

Contact for Ramata: tpms.pta.president@gmail.com

 

7:30 PM: Budget Updates

Amy Swift, TPES PTA Treasurer

Vote approved to extend the budget as a summer budget.

  • Rachael Pierotti, PBES PTA Treasurer – Budget presentation of current year to date and proposed 2024-2025 Budget

Vote: Approved

Membership voted to approve the budget for 2024-2025.

Questions: Treasurer (Rachael) email: pbesptatreasurer@gmail.com.

7:35 PM: Vote on TPES & PBES Executive Committees for ‘24-’25 School Year

  • Vote on the new upcoming year’s executive committee members for TPES 

Co-VP of Membership -Jessi Binder and Erin Nichols Co-Membership Secretaries – Lesley Perry (2nd term) and Lillie Rosen

Vote: Approved

  • Vote on the upcoming year’s executive committee members for PBES

All members are continuing, PBES PTA still has a couple open positions that need to be filled, but no need to vote on current positions.

7:45 PM: End of Year Statements from Mrs. O & Dr. G.

Mrs O and Mr Weerts: A huge thank you to everyone – Staff felt very supported by PTA. Excited to have the 2nd graders come visit PBES and have the 5th graders visit TPMS.

Summer school will be held for Joann Laleck at PBES. 

Thank you!

Dr. G: This is a very exciting time of the year! Second grade promotion on Monday. The 2nd graders are trying to put together a newspaper. If you have experience in word processing, please volunteer to help make it happen. It’s been a wild year but a good one. Thanks to volunteers and staff for getting it done!

7:50 PM: Q&A

Q: Can I order a year book for PBES?

A: Next Monday, June 10, 2024, we will hold a Yearbook Flash Sale from 9–9:30am for families who missed the opportunity to purchase a yearbook and would like to do so now. Yearbooks will be sold in the front hallway for $20 on a first come, first serve basis. Please reach out to Java Robinson (java_m_robinson@mcpsmd.org) if you have any questions.

Q: I don’t recall whether or not I ordered a Year book. How can I confirm?

A: The contact for all yearbook sales at Piney Branch ES is Ms. Robinson (java_m_robinson@mcpsmd.org)

Q: When will yearbooks be distributed?

A: TPES: early next week, same for PBES.

Q: Do kindergarteners get a yearbook?

A: If you buy one.

Q: Why doesn’t the PTA earn anything from the book fair?  I thought a portion of Scholastic Book Fair proceeds were supposed to support the school in some way?

A: It earns Scholastic Dollars for the school to spend, but it’s not cash.

Q: And the school spends it on books?  Do you have an estimate on how many books were earned for the school?

A: Scholastic dollars can be used on books and school supplies, etc. We count the amount in scholastic dollars. The total scholastic dollars were $7,000 this year for PBES.

PBES used Scholastic. However TPES did a different book fair: Per Amy Swift, TPES tried Book Worm this year instead of Scholastic. Approximately $3500 from book fair.

Q: Do we know what the impact of the MCPS budget cuts will be on PBES?

A: Mrs Oberdorf  received notice that PBES was losing an allocation but in reviewing the numbers that may be rescinded.

Q: Is there any way we can support you as a parent advocacy community around the note MCPS sent out about increases in class sizes, etc?

A: Dr. G: Please help get the word out to folks with rising Kindergarten students to please get those rising Kindergarteners registered!! K enrollment is down and if TPES does not get more kids enrolled for K it will impact the number of K teacher positions.

Q: Is there a deadline for volunteering for a PTA position for PBES? 

A: No, we’ll take you when you volunteer!

Q: Will we lose instrumental music? We are so sad we are losing Ms Pratt?

A: No. There is no change in the instrumental music program. We’ll be hiring a new person. We share allocation with Rolling Terrace with PBES comprising the larger allocation.

Q: Is Kid Adventure having a summer camp this year at PBES? 

A: They won’t be at PBES because Laleck will be here this year. KA will be at TPES.

7:58 PM: Thank you!


joycekmcdonough@gmail.com

May 27, 2024 Dolphin Digest – TPES PTA Weekly Newsletter

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In this issue: 
1. June PTA Meeting: Tuesday, June 4, 7-8pm 
2. 2024-2025 TPES PTA Executive Committee Openings
3. TPES Art Show @ TPES: Wednesday, May 29, 7-8pm
4. First Graders Field Trip to Glen Echo: Thursday, May 30th

5. All Library Books Due Friday, May 31st 

6. Second Grade Walking Field Trip to PBES: Wednesday, June 5, 9:30am
7. Crossing Guard Appreciation Day: June 5th
8. Second Grade Promotion Save the Date: June 10
9. We Need Your Feedback on Dreambox
10. At-Home Chromebooks
11. Upcoming TPES Events 
 
1. June PTA Meeting: Tuesday, June 4, 7-8pm 
Please join us for our last PTA meeting of the school year! We’ll have our election for the 2024-25 PTA board and Dave Burbank, librarian associate in the Children and Youth Services at the Takoma Park Library, will join us to discuss their summer reading program and other enrichment opportunities.
 
2. 2024-2025 TPES PTA Executive Committee Openings
We need YOU! Yes, YOU! We have several critical positions on our PTA board that must be filled or critical services and funds will be cut. We have not had anyone step up yet! If not you, then please send us an email nominating or recommending someone!  
The following positions are open:
Executive Secretary
Membership Secretary
VP Communications
VP Membership
VP Fundraising
VP Equity
Non-board roles are also vital and many volunteers are ageing out of TPES so we have several needs: 
NAACP Representative
Room Parent Coordinator
Teacher/Staff Appreciation Committee Co-Chair
Book Fair Committee Co-Chair
Social Services Coordinator
Please reach out to Kaitlin, Claire, or Amy with any questions or interest: president@tpespta.net. Elections will take place at our June 4 PTA meeting!
 
3. TPES Art Show @ TPES: Wednesday, May 29, 7-8pm
The TPES Art Show will showcase your child’s art from the year. Art will be displayed by class throughout the walls of the school.
4. First Graders Field Trip to Glen Echo: Thursday, May 30th
Reminder that first grade has their field trip to Glen Echo THIS Thursday! Check in with your teacher for more details!
5. All Library Books Due Friday, May 31st 
Please check high and low for any remaining TPES library books. All books should be returned by this Friday, May 31st.
6. Second Grade Walking Field Trip to PBES: Wednesday, June 5, 9:30am
Second graders will visit Piney Branch Elementary School (PBES) and will leave at 9:30am, so please be sure your child arrives to school on time!
 
7. Crossing Guard Appreciation Day: June 5th

The City of Takoma Park will set up tables at the guard posts so students can leave a token of appreciation on their way to school. If you have time to make a card or artwork, please do so to thank the crossing guards that work to keep us all safe:

Donna Warren – Philadelphia and Cedar
Emma Reyes – Philadelphia and Holly
Pamela Sprouse – Piney Branch and Philadelphia
Edward Welch – The junction Ethan Allen @ Carrol
Jordan Bondo – Philadelphia and Maple
Harriet Saxton – Maple Ave and Grant Ave
Virina James – Maple Ave and Sherman Ave

 
8. Second Grade Promotion Save the Date: June 10
Second grade families, save the date! The school will send more information. In years past, the ceremony has taken place at Takoma Park Middle School in the morning but we’ll need to wait for official word from Dr. Gadsden.
 
9. We Need Your Feedback on Dreambox

TPES is determining whether to continue our Dreambox Math subscription so needs your feedback. Please complete this 2-minute survey: Dreambox Feedback Form If your child has never used Dreambox, this survey is still for you! Help us stay smart with our spending!

 
10. At-Home Chromebooks

If your student has an MCPS at-home Chromebook and they are leaving MCPS, please bring the Chromebook, charger and carrying case back to TPES by June 7th. You can send it in with the student or drop it off at the front office. If they are moving to a different MCPS school or staying at TPES then they can keep the Chromebook at home all summer.

11. Upcoming TPES Events 

May 29: 1st Grade Field Trip to Glen Echo
May 29: Career Day
May 29, 7pm: Art Show
May 30, 7pm: Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting
May 31: All Library Books Due
June 4: PTA Meeting
June 5: 2nd Grade Walking Field Trip to Visit PBES
June 5: Crossing Guard Appreciation Day
June 10: Second Grade Promotion
 
Translation | Traducción | ትርጉም
joycekmcdonough@gmail.com

May 13, 2024 Dolphin Digest – TPES PTA Weekly Newsletter

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In this issue: 
1. REMINDER: NO SCHOOL TOMORROW – ELECTION DAY
2. May PTA Meeting Minutes
3. 2024-2025 TPES PTA Executive Committee Openings
4. Dress for Field Day THIS WEEK: May 13, 15, 16
5. TPES vs. PBES Soccer Game NEW DATE: Thursday, May 23, 6:15pm
6. THANK YOU for Contributing to Teacher Appreciation Week
7. TPES Art Show Help Needed to Hang Student Art
8. Parent Input for Next Year’s Class
9. Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting: May 30, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.
10. Second Grade Promotion Save the Date: June 10
11. Upcoming TPES Events 
 
1. REMINDER: NO SCHOOL TOMORROW, Tuesday, 5/14 – ELECTION DAY
On the ballot include: U.S. Senate candidate, U.S. House Representative (including our 8th district), Montgomery County School Board (1 at-large seat and our District 4)

2. May PTA Meeting Minutes
Meeting minutes for our PTA meeting last week can be found here and includes upcoming dates, an update about TPES’s Food Forest, class assignment information from principals, and treasurer’s report. (Notes not available from breakout rooms.)


3. 2024-2025 TPES PTA Executive Committee Openings
Several parents are staying on to serve another term but others have reached term limits or will no longer have children at TPES, so the following positions are open:
Executive Secretary
Membership Secretary
VP Communications
VP Membership
VP Fundraising
VP Equity

You can find descriptions here: https://tpespta.net/get-involved/tpes-pta-volunteer-descriptions/

Non-board roles are also vital and many volunteers are ageing out of TPES so we have several needs:

NAACP Representative
Room Parent Coordinator
Teacher/Staff Appreciation Committee Co-Chair
Book Fair Committee Co-Chair
Social Services Coordinator

We need YOU! Our PTA is vital part of TPES, helping to provide necessary supplies to teachers and the school, providing opportunities for afterschool enrichment (including scholarships for students to participate), planning community-building events and organizing additional learning opportunities, such as assemblies and providing funding for field trips. Without parent volunteers, this work can’t happen, so please consider stepping up, even if you can only commit a certain amount of time!

Please reach out to Kaitlin, Claire, or Amy with any questions or interest: president@tpespta.net. Elections will take place at our June 4 PTA meeting!

4. Dress for Field Day THIS WEEK: May 13, 15, 16
Children should wear closed toed shoes appropriate for running, and they may get wet (not soaked) during water activities so dress appropriately!

1st Grade: THIS Wednesday, 5/15,  9:30-11 a.m. (Rain date 5/22) Still need 1 volunteer at First Aid and 1 volunteer at Ping Pong Ball Carry for one hour

2nd Grade: THIS Thursday, 5/16, 9:30-11 a.m.

5. TPES vs. PBES Soccer Game NEW DATE: Thursday, May 23, 6:15pm

Please join us Thursday, May 23rd at Washington Adventist University for a friendly soccer game between the staff and parents of TPES vs. the staff and parents of PBES! The game will begin at 6:15 PM and there will be a dance party on the field after the game (around 7 PM) for kids and families! There will be pizza for $1 a slice while supplies last (we encourage you to bring cash, as well as your water bottles!) and to wear merchandise or school colors, as well as make signs to encourage the school(s) you’re cheering on!! We look forward to seeing you there! And cross your fingers for weather and weather forecasts to be favorable!

6. THANK YOU for Contributing to Teacher Appreciation Week 

We would like to extend our gratitude to the parents and neighborhood businesses who donated and gave discounts to make last week a success. Thank you to the following businesses who contributed to our TPES Teacher Appreciation Week: Takoma BevCo., Tabletop, Azalea City Nails, People’s Book, Fulfillery, House Mouse Books, Yoga Heights and Willow Street Yoga. Thank you to the parents who made our staff feel appreciated with the notes, flowers, gift cards, and food contributions!
Finally, a special thanks goes out to TPES parents, Betsy Cohen, Mercedes Castelo, Erin Mohan, and Orly Keiner, for all of your work to organize last week’s special events. You are ALL amazing!!

7. TPES Art Show Help Needed to Hang Student Art

We are looking for parents to help hang student art up on the walls! All you will need to do is pick a time (as many slots as you are available) and report to the Art room 407 to retrieve the artwork and the location where it is to be hung. If you have extra hanging supplies, donations of staples, staplers, masking tape, glue sticks, and scissors are welcome!

Link to the parent volunteer sign-up!: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094BAFAA29A1FACE9-49251402-artshow

8. Parent Input for Next Year’s Class

Please use the attached form to tell the school about your child’s learning style and needs. The form is an opportunity to provide input into your child’s class placement for the 2024-2025 school year. This spring, TPES staff will begin the process of developing classes for next year. This work will continue into the summer. The school’s goal is to make the best student-teacher match possible and staff will use the information in this form to help guide their work. Second grade families should still use this form; PBES will use the information for the same purpose.

9. Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting: May 30, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.
The staff of Takoma Park Elementary School will host an incoming kindergarten parent meeting on May 30, 2024. The meeting will be held virtually and will include interpreters for Spanish and Amharic. To register, please email Anne_M_Hottel-Cox@mcpsmd.org. Help us spread the word!
10. Second Grade Promotion Save the Date: June 10

Second grade families, save the date! The school will send more information. In years past, the ceremony has taken place at Takoma Park Middle School in the morning but we’ll need to wait for official word from Dr. Gadsden.

11. Upcoming TPES Events 

May 13: Kindergarten Field Day
May 14: No School, Election Day
May 15: First Grade Field Day
May 16: Second Grade Field Day
May 23: TPES vs. PBES Soccer Game
May 29: Career Day
May 30, 7pm: Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting
June 10: Second Grade Promotion
 
Translation | Traducción | ትርጉም
joycekmcdonough@gmail.com

May 2024 PTA Meeting Minutes

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Takoma Park Elementary School (TPES)
Piney Branch Elementary School (PBES)
Parent & Teacher Meeting (PTA)
Tuesday, May 7, 2024 from 7 – 8pm on Zoom 

Agenda will include: 

(1) Upcoming TPES and PBES dates and announcements
(2) Food Forest and Gardening Club at TPES
(3) Treasurer’s Reports
(4) Dr. Gadsden and Ms. Oberdorf to speak about class assignments
(5) Breakout rooms for rising K, 3rd and 6th grade parents

Spanish Translator: Mercedes Castelo

Amharic Translator: There will be no Amharic translation provided. 

7:00 PM: Meeting Kick-off 

Kaitlin Caruso, TPES PTA President Welcome 

  • Intro to topics to be discussed
  • Plea for Executive officers for upcoming school year 
    • Descriptions of open positions will be sent out this week. Please consider joining the executive board!

7:05 PM: Upcoming Dates & Announcements

JOINT TPES/PBES ANNOUNCEMENTS: read by Joyce McDonough, TPES VP Communications 

  • May 9 – TPES/PBES Soccer game this Thursday, May 9 between parents and teachers of TPES vs. parents and teachers of PBES! Event will be held at Washington Adventist University. Anyone who is playing, please arrive at 5:45 for warm-up. The game will start at 6:15 PM and will end by 7 PM with a dance party for children on the field. Attendance is FREE! Pizza will be served for $1 a slice! Quantity will be limited! We hope to see as many of you as possible out there for this wonderful community-building event!

TPES ANNOUNCEMENTS:  Read by Joyce McDonough, TPES VP Communications

    • There will be an Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting-May 30, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. The staff of Takoma Park Elementary School will host an incoming kindergarten parent meeting on May 30, 2024. The meeting will be held virtually and will include interpreters for Spanish and Amharic.
    • Please fill out the parent input form sent out by Dr. Gadsden to tell the school about your child’s learning style and needs. The form is an opportunity to provide input into your child’s class placement for the 2024-2025 school year. This spring, the staff at TPES will begin the process of developing classes for next year. This work will continue into the summer. The goal is to make the best student-teacher match possible and to use the information in the form to help guide that work. 
    • Thank you to everyone who volunteered for the TPES Book Fair! 
      • Online Book Fair: Our online book fair will remain open through the school year.  There are books for all ages available at the online fair.  TPES PTA receives 15% of the proceeds for books purchased through the online fair.  https://www.bookwormcentral.com/TakomaPark
      • Please contact Claire Dean and Lesley Perry at bookfair@tpespta.net.  
    • This week is Teacher Appreciation Week and we are still seeking gifts to raffle off to teachers. Some ideas include giving time for pet sitting, a homemade casserole, your favorite cookie recipe, gift cards, gift certificates, etc. Gifts in any amount are appreciated and welcomed! Please reach out to Betsy Garcete to let her know what you can contribute: esthergarcete@gmail.com
    • Kindergarten Enrollment 2024-25 Now Open Kindergarten online registration is now open. For information regarding kindergarten enrollment for the 2024-25 school year, including important documents needed to register, please visit the MCPS website (https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/info/enroll/kindergarten/). If you have any questions or would like more information on how to enroll at Takoma Park Elementary School, please call 240-740-0980 or email Ms. Hottel-Cox at anne_m_hottel-cox@mcpsmd.org. 
  • Yearbooks! If you’d like to order a yearbook for your child, please use this link. Yearbooks cost $22 and will be distributed at the end of the school year. 

PBES ANNOUNCEMENTS: ready by Chris Campbell, PBES VP Communications 

  • New Art Gallery! Ms. Cantu is putting together a beautiful display of student’s art from classes past and present in a new gallery wall space. The PTA is seeking donations to help fund this exciting project. Donate here! The gallery system will allow us to change out the artwork for years to come.
  • Teacher Appreciation Week: Teacher Appreciation Week is happening this week up and there are ways you and your student can thank our staff for BEE-ing the BEST! Thank you to everyone who donated or helped decorate! 
    • We are still looking for volunteers to help with Clean-Up on Friday. Sign up here! 
    • Friday, May 10: BEE Yourself: Students and staff can dress to express their silly sides!
  • Volunteers Needed for Instrumental Concert Bake Sale on May 22: Your help is needed on May 22! Please consider signing up to either staff the bake sale table or bring a dozen baked goods. This is a fundraiser for the PBES PTA and your support is appreciated! Sign up here!
  • May 16: 4th/5th grade choral concert
  • PBES Yearbooks: Yearbooks are on sale now. The price is $20. They may be ordered online here.

7:15 PM: Sharon Broderick, Co-Chair, Food Forest and Gardening Committee 

  • Presentation on Food Forest and TPES Gardening Club 
  • Vision for forest garden on TPES grounds; incorporates fruit and nut trees, bushes, 
  • Started last year to build garden boxes; planted for the first time last year
  • Working with MCPS to get proper approvals to get more planting in the fall
  • First tree plantings: April 2024; all growing; persimmon, serviceberry, hazelnuts, spicebush, witch hazel on nature walk along TPES playground edge
  • TKPK owns land on other side; working with Arborist to develop the nature walk there
  • 45 students in student garden club! They love to water the plants
    • Posters in the atrium
    • food tasting in atrium this wednesday from what has been grown
    • Plans for 2nd grade group to meet during the week
  • Applying for grant for funds 
  • Planting and clean up event on May 11 1-4pm
    • Planting along the nature walk
    • 45-100 plants coming

7:25 PM: Treasurer’s Reports 

  • Amy Swift, TPES PTA Treasurer
    • Month of April
    • Lots of revenue coming in from Read-a-Thon and Book Fair
    • Book Fair: amount is what we took in cash/checks that goes back to Book Fair venue
    • PayPal admin charges: looking for ways to cut those
    • Exceeded expected income for year; under budget in spending
  • Ingrid Gardiner, PBES PTA President
    • Running about $10,000 behind on donations; over on fundraising; more should be posted
    • Programming costs don’t currently include the pool and other incoming costs

7:35 PM: Dr. Gadsden and Ms. Oberdorf

  • Speaking about class assignments for 2024-2025 school year 
  • Ms. Oberdorf (PBES)
    • Started process for class assignments a few weeks ago
    • Gathering data on students; teacher input in addition to scores
    • Start setting up potential classes; balance in demographics, gender, service groups, interventions, enrichment
    • Form for parent input being sent shortly
    • Staff meeting to present drafts of class rosters
    • Collaborate with TPES for rising third graders
    • Long process (3 months); 200 sets of students at a time
    • Hoping to make the best matches for all students
  • Dr. Gadsden (TPES)
    • Similar process as PBES
    • Forms for current second graders are shared with PBES; no need to fill out two
    • Cannot honor “keep with” requests; can honor “keep apart” requests
    • Do the best we can to have a balanced room and that every child in the room has another child who looks like them.
  • Cap on class sizes at PBES because a Focus school
  • TPES expects to have 9 K, 9 1st, 6 2nd grade classrooms; moving toward co-teaching model in hopes of bringing down the student teacher ratio; will be about 25 kids per class, but smaller for reading and math.
  • PBES going from 9 to 8 third grade classes; district monitors enrollment to adjust the number of classes.
  • 5th grade promotion ceremony: June 12 at 2pm

7:40 PM: Breakout rooms for incoming K parents, 3rd grade parents and 6th grade parents

Kindergarten Breakout Rooms (Dr. Gadsden to present before questions) 

  1. Claire Dean 
  2. Kelley Seay

Third Grade Breakout Rooms: 

  1. Christine Kahler Smith 
  2. Mari Quenemoen 

Sixth Grade Breakout Rooms: 

  1. Becca Jones-Albertus
joycekmcdonough@gmail.com

May 6, 2024 Dolphin Digest – TPES PTA Weekly Newsletter

/in /by
In this issue: 
1. May PTA Meeting TOMORROW – Tuesday, May 7th, 7-8pm via Zoom
2. Teacher Appreciation Week is THIS WEEK
3. TPES vs. PBES Soccer Game: Thursday, May 9, 6:15pm
4. Anacostia Watershed Cleanup @ TPES: This Saturday, May 11th, 1-4pm
5. Parent Input for Next Year’s Class
6. Calling All Parents and Guardians – Field Day is Coming: May 13, 15, 16

7. TPES Art Show: Thursday, May 23
8. Career Day Volunteers Needed: May 29
9. Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting: May 30, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.
10. Upcoming TPES Events 
 
1. May PTA Meeting TOMORROW – Tuesday, May 7th, 7-8pm via Zoom
Agenda will include 1) Upcoming TPES and PBES dates and announcements; 2) Food Forest and Gardening Club at TPES; 3) Treasurer’s Reports; 4) Process for Class Assignments for Next Year by TPES and PBES principals; 5) Breakout Rooms for Rising K, 3rd and 6th Grade Families for Panel Discussion on the Transition. Zoom link will be sent tomorrow afternoon directly from Dr. Gadsden.
2. Teacher Appreciation Week is THIS WEEK
Let’s show our appreciation for our amazing teachers and staff this week! A HUGE thank you to those who have signed up to bring a breakfast item for our staff breakfast tomorrow. If you didn’t get to sign up, here are still some ways to show appreciation: 
  • Have your child make a card of appreciation for their teacher(s)! 
  • Donate a GIFT CARD for this week’s teacher raffle. We are still in need of more gift cards in any amount and to a store of your choice! Drop off in the front office. 

3. TPES vs. PBES Soccer Game: Thursday, May 9, 6:15pm
Please join us this Thursday, May 9th at Washington Adventist University for a friendly soccer game between the staff and parents of TPES vs. the staff and parents of PBES! The game will begin at 6:15 PM and there will be a dance party on the field after the game (around 7 PM) for kids and families! There will be pizza for $1 a slice while supplies last (we encourage you to bring cash, as well as your water bottles!) and to wear merchandise or school colors, as well as make signs to encourage the school(s) you’re cheering on!! We look forward to seeing you there!

 
4. Anacostia Watershed Cleanup: This Saturday, May 11th, 1-4pm
The students and families of TPES are invited to help pick up litter and plant native plants on May 11th, 1-4pm at the TPES school grounds and the areas surrounding in the Anacostia Watershed

5. Parent Input for Next Year’s Class

Please use the attached form to tell the school about your child’s learning style and needs. The form is an opportunity to provide input into your child’s class placement for the 2024-2025 school year. This spring, TPES staff will begin the process of developing classes for next year. This work will continue into the summer. The school’s goal is to make the best student-teacher match possible and staff will use the information in this form to help guide their work.

6. Calling All Parents and Guardians – Field Day is Coming: May 13, 15, 16
Field Day is coming for all grade levels in May. We need many parent volunteers to have a successful experience for our children. Be on the lookout for a signup link to help out with this fun day. The dates are as follows:Kindergarten- May 13th, 9:30-11:00 a.m. Rain date-May 20th, 9:30-11:00 a.m.
First Grade- May 15th, 9:30-11:00 a.m. Rain date-May 22nd, 9:30-11:00 a.m.
Second Grade- May 16th, 9:30-11:00 a.m. Rain date-May, 23rd, 9:30-11:00 a.m.
7. TPES Art Show: Thursday, May 23

 Our school Art Show is May 23rd! The Art Show Team is seeking parent volunteers to help hang art in our halls from May 13th through May 22nd! Keep an eye out for our sign-up sheet coming out soon from Ms. Kelley.

8. Career Day Volunteers Needed: May 29

No matter what you do – banker, nurse, architect, dentist, police officer, lawyer, military, computer engineer, bus driver, or doctor – the children can learn about the world of work from you! So, if you, a relative, a neighbor, or a friend has a job that you love to talk about and share with others, being a Career Day speaker would be a perfect fit!

Volunteering does not guarantee that you will be called on to present. We will do our best to make sure we get a wide variety of careers to showcase to our students. If you are selected, you are committing to stay the entire morning session and present to 3 different classes. Each presentation will last 30 minutes (20 minutes of talking, 10 minutes of Q&A with students).

If you are interested in being a Career Day speaker or know someone who might be, please complete the interest form before April 26, 2024!
If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Althofer at Max_P_Althofer@mcpsmd.org or Mrs. Ampofo at Charlotte_Ampofo@mcpsmd.org.

9. Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting: May 30, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.
The staff of Takoma Park Elementary School will host an incoming kindergarten parent meeting on May 30, 2024. The meeting will be held virtually and will include interpreters for Spanish and Amharic.

10. Upcoming TPES Events 

May 7: May PTA Meeting, 7-8pm via Zoom
May 9: TPES vs. PBES Soccer Game
May 11: Anacostia Watershed Cleanup @ TPES
May 13, 15, 16: Field Day
May 14: No School, Election Day
May 23: TPES Art Show
May 29: Career Day
May 30, 7pm: Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting
 
Translation | Traducción | ትርጉም
joycekmcdonough@gmail.com

April 29, 2024 Dolphin Digest – TPES PTA Weekly Newsletter

/in /by
In this issue: 
1. Next PTA Meeting – Tuesday, May 7th, 7-8pm via Zoom
2. Seeking 2-4 Additional Kindergarten Parents to Participate in Panel for Incoming K Families
3. Teacher Appreciation Week is coming up May 6-10: Need fruit and quiches!
4. TPES vs. PBES Soccer Game: May 9, 6:15pm
5. Parent Input for Next Year’s Class
6. Incoming Kindergarten “Parents Only” Registration and Tour: May 2-3
7. Anacostia Watershed Cleanup: May 11th, 1-4pm
8. Calling All Parents and Guardians – Field Day is Coming: May 13, 15, 16
9. TPES Art Show: Thursday, May 23
10. Career Day Volunteers Needed: May 29
11. Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting: May 30, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.
12. Upcoming TPES Events 

1. Next PTA Meeting – Tuesday, May 7th, 7-8pm via Zoom
After a brief presentation from the TPES Food Forest, we’ll go into breakout rooms for panel discussions on: 1) transition to Takoma Park Middle Schoo for current fifth graders; 2) transition from TPES to PBES for current second graders; and 3) transition to Kindergarten for rising Kindergartners. Zoom link will be sent a few hours before the meeting.
Do you know a rising K family who you’d like to invite? Please send them this link to register (so they can receive the Zoom link): https://forms.gle/zW5Fot93DRDRDxAL8
 
2. Seeking 2-4 Additional Kindergarten Parents to Participate in Panel for Incoming K Families
The PTA is looking for volunteers to join us at our May 7th PTA meeting, from 7-8pm, for a panel discussion for rising K families to share your experience and answer questions about the transition and what to expect.  If you can help, please email Joyce McDonough at communications@tpespta.net.
 
3. Teacher Appreciation Week is coming up May 6-10
We have a wonderful team of parent volunteers who are planning activities to help our TPES teachers and staff feel loved and appreciated for all of the hard work they put in each and every day for our children! If you are interested, there are a couple ways you can also help, which are listed below. 
  • Have your child make a card of appreciation for their teacher(s)! Your room parent might have already sent out a message about this, but as a reminder, we encourage you to have your child make a card for their classroom teacher, specials teachers or other support staff they admire. Please have students bring in their cards the week of May 6-10. 

4. TPES vs. PBES Soccer Game: May 9, 6:15pm
We have a full roster for TPES, including five teachers – thank you! This should be a lot of fun! We are still looking for volunteers to 1) help organize a bake sale, 2) help with logistics on the day of, 3) a referee (and maybe line judges), and 4) an emcee/announcer.  Please reach out to president@tpespta.net if you are interested in volunteering in one of these ways. And if you’re not playing or volunteering, we encourage you and your family to come out to watch the game…the kids will be so excited to see their teachers in action! What: Friendly soccer game of TPES Staff and Parents vs. PBES Staff and Parents
Date: May 9th, 2024 (Rain date: May 23, 2024)
Location: Washington Adventist University Field 
Time: 
5:45 PM – Players arrive for warm-up
6:15 PM – Game Begins
7:00 PM – Dance party on the field for children 

Dinner: Pizza will be served for $1 a slice, as well as water and juice. Pizza supply will be limited, so come on the early side if you want to grab some for dinner! 
Cost: There is NO fee to attend, but if your family is inclined, there will be a $5 suggested donation to help cover costs and fundraise for the PTAs of both schools. 

Team Captains:
TPES: Nick Dean (nickdean10@gmail.com)
PBES: Becca Jones-Albertus (beccaj@gmail.com)

*If you are playing for TPES, please wear a white shirt. If you are playing for PBES, please wear a dark blue or black shirt. 
 
5. Parent Input for Next Year’s Class

Please use the attached form to tell the school about your child’s learning style and needs. The form is an opportunity to provide input into your child’s class placement for the 2024-2025 school year. This spring, TPES staff will begin the process of developing classes for next year. This work will continue into the summer. The school’s goal is to make the best student-teacher match possible and staff will use the information in this form to help guide their work.

6. Incoming Kindergarten “Parents Only” Registration and Tour: May 2 and 3

TPES will host “parent only” registration days on May 2nd, and May 3rd . The registration will include a paperwork/enrollment check, parent interview, and tour of the building. Please contact Mrs. Hottel-Cox via email (Anne_M_Hottel-Cox@mcpsmd.org) to schedule your registration. For information regarding kindergarten enrollment for the 2024-25 school year, including important documents needed to register,please visit the MCPS website (https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/info/enroll/kindergarten/).

7. Anacostia Watershed Cleanup: May 11th, 1-4pm
The students and families of TPES are invited to help pick up litter and plant native plants on May 11th, 1-4pm at the TPES school grounds and the areas surrounding in the Anacostia Watershed

8. Calling All Parents and Guardians – Field Day is Coming: May 13, 15, 16
Field Day is coming for all grade levels in May. We need many parent volunteers to have a successful experience for our children. A Signup Genius link will be sent out next week for parents to sign up to help and have fun with our kiddos. The dates are as follows:

Kindergarten- May 13th, 9:30-11:00 a.m. Rain date-May 20th, 9:30-11:00 a.m.
First Grade- May 15th, 9:30-11:00 a.m. Rain date-May 22nd, 9:30-11:00 a.m.
Second Grade- May 16th, 9:30-11:00 a.m. Rain date-May, 23rd, 9:30-11:00 a.m.

9. TPES Art Show: Thursday, May 23

 Our school Art Show is May 23rd! The Art Show Team is seeking parent volunteers to help hang art in our halls from May 13th through May 22nd! Keep an eye out for our sign-up sheet coming out soon from Ms. Kelley.

10. Career Day Volunteers Needed: May 29

No matter what you do – banker, nurse, architect, dentist, police officer, lawyer, military, computer engineer, bus driver, or doctor – the children can learn about the world of work from you! So, if you, a relative, a neighbor, or a friend has a job that you love to talk about and share with others, being a Career Day speaker would be a perfect fit!

Volunteering does not guarantee that you will be called on to present. We will do our best to make sure we get a wide variety of careers to showcase to our students. If you are selected, you are committing to stay the entire morning session and present to 3 different classes. Each presentation will last 30 minutes (20 minutes of talking, 10 minutes of Q&A with students).

If you are interested in being a Career Day speaker or know someone who might be, please complete the interest form before April 26, 2024!
If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Althofer at Max_P_Althofer@mcpsmd.org or Mrs. Ampofo at Charlotte_Ampofo@mcpsmd.org.

11. Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting: May 30, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.
The staff of Takoma Park Elementary School will host an incoming kindergarten parent meeting on May 30, 2024. The meeting will be held virtually and will include interpreters for Spanish and Amharic.

12. Upcoming TPES Events 

May 2-3: Incoming Kindergarten “Parents Only” Registration and Tour
May 6-10: Teacher Appreciation Week
May 7: May PTA Meeting, 7-8pm via Zoom
May 9, 6:15pm: TPES vs. PBES Soccer Game
May 11th, 1-4pm: Anacostia Watershed Cleanup @ TPES
May 13, 15, 16: Field Day
May 14: No School, Election Day
May 23: TPES Art Show
May 29: Career Day
May 30, 7pm: Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting
 
Translation | Traducción | ትርጉም
joycekmcdonough@gmail.com

April 22, 2024 Dolphin Digest – TPES PTA Weekly Newsletter

/in /by
In this issue: 
1. THANK YOU to Making Book Fair a Huge Success
2. Parent Input for Next Year’s Class
3. TPES Recognized as a Maryland Green School 
4. Second Grade Musical, “Dinosaurs and More”: Thursday, April 24, 7pm @ TPMS
5. National Take Your Child to Work Day: Thursday, April 25
6. LAST CHANCE! Cheer on D.C. United and Support TPES PTA: Saturday, April 27, 7:30pm 

7. TPES/PBES Rainbow Club: April 28, 12-2pm @ Loft Collective
8. Incoming Kindergarten “Parents Only” Registration and Tour: May 2 and May 3
9. Seeking Kindergarten Parents to Participate in Panel for Incoming K Families
10. Seeking Gifts/Donations for Teacher Appreciation Raffle: May 6-10
11. TPES vs. PBES Soccer Game: May 9, 6:15pm
12. Anacostia Watershed Cleanup: May 11th, 1-4pm
13. Calling All Parents and Guardians – Field Day is Coming: May 13, 15, 16
14. TPES Art Show: Thursday, May 23
15. Career Day Volunteers Needed: May 29, 2024
16. Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting: May 30, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.
17. Upcoming TPES Events 
1. THANK YOU to Making Book Fair a Huge Success
Thanks to all the volunteers who helped make our first book fair with an independent book store a HUGE SUCCESS! Special thanks to Claire Dean, Lesley Perry, Amy Swift, and Ms. Anderson! Final tallies still being calculated but we grossed over $14K!
 
2. Parent Input for Next Year’s Class

Please use the attached form to tell the school about your child’s learning style and needs. The form is an opportunity to provide input into your child’s class placement for the 2024-2025 school year. This spring, TPES staff will begin the process of developing classes for next year. This work will continue into the summer. The school’s goal is to make the best student-teacher match possible and staff will use the information in this form to help guide their work.

3. TPES Recognized as a Maryland Green School
Congratulations! TPES has been recognized as a Maryland Green School! The Maryland Green School award represents a school-wide commitment to environmental literacy that includes staff, students, and the community. Your efforts make a difference today and in the future! Thank you all so much for your continued support keeping TPES green!! (And to Ms. Archuletta for spearheading this effort!)

4. Second Grade Musical, “Dinosaurs and More”: Thursday, April 24, 7pm @ TPMS
The second grade students will be performing their musical “Dinosaurs and More” this Thursday, April 25, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. at Takoma Park Middle School. All are welcome to come see our children transformed into dinosaurs.

5. National Take Your Child to Work Day: Thursday, April 25

If you will be taking your child/children to work with you, please provide a note or email Mrs. Hottel-Cox at Anne_M_Hottel-Cox@mcpsmd.org, our attendance secretary, prior to the absence from school and it will be excused.

6. LAST CHANCE! Cheer on D.C. United and Support TPES PTA: Saturday, April 27, 7:30pm 
Come cheer on D.C. United on MCPS Night as they take on the Seattle Sounders FC on Saturday, April 27 at 7:30pm. TPES will have its own section. A portion of the ticket sales go to support the TPES PTA so we can continue to offer support to the school. Tickets for the TPES section can be purchased here:  https://fevo-enterprise.com/Takomapark5  Go D.C. United and TPES Dolphins!

7. TPES/PBES Rainbow Club: April 28, 12-2pm @ Loft Collective
The joint TPES/PBES Rainbow Club is having our spring meet-up on April 28th from 12-2 at The Loft. Email rainbowclubtkpk@gmail.com for more information.

8. Incoming Kindergarten “Parents Only” Registration and Tour: May 2 and May 3

TPES will host “parent only” registration days on May 2nd, and May 3rd . The registration will include a paperwork/enrollment check, parent interview, and tour of the building. Please contact Mrs. Hottel-Cox via email (Anne_M_Hottel-Cox@mcpsmd.org) to schedule your registration. For information regarding kindergarten enrollment for the 2024-25 school year, including important documents needed to register,please visit the MCPS website (https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/info/enroll/kindergarten/). 

9. Seeking Kindergarten Parents to Participate in Panel for Incoming K Families
The PTA is looking for 3-5 volunteers to join us at our May 7th PTA meeting, from 7-8pm, for a panel discussion for rising K families. We’ll be hosting three separate Zoom breakout rooms (1) rising 3rd grade families, 2) rising 6th grade families, 3) rising K families). If you can help, please email Joyce McDonough at communications@tpespta.net.
10. Seeking Gifts/Donations for Teacher Appreciation Raffle: May 6-10
The PTA is seeking gifts to be raffled off to teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week, May 6-10. Some ideas include giving time for pet sitting, a homemade casserole, your favorite cookie recipe, gift cards, gift certificates, etc.  Gifts in any amount are appreciated and welcomed! Please reach out to Betsy to let her know what you can contribute: esthergarcete@gmail.com
11. TPES vs. PBES Soccer Game: May 9, 6:15pm
The details for the event are below, but what we need to make this game possible are…PLAYERS! Whether you are a seasoned player or have never kicked a soccer ball, we welcome you to sign up for a fun evening of exercise and friendly competition! If you are interested in playing, please fill out your name on this Google Sheet(make sure to look at the tabs at the bottom to sign up for the right school). The team captains and their emails are listed below, so please feel free to reach out to either Nick or Becca with any questions you have. If you don’t want to play, but still want to be involved, we are looking for volunteers to help organize a bake sale and to help with logistics on the day of (as well as a referee!). Please reach out to president@tpespta.net if you are interested in volunteering in one of these ways. And if you’re not playing or volunteering, we encourage you and your family to come out to watch the game…the kids will be so excited to see their teachers in action!What: Friendly soccer game of TPES Staff and Parents vs. PBES Staff and Parents
Date: May 9th, 2024 (Rain date: May 23, 2024)
Location: Washington Adventist University Field
Time:
5:45 PM – Players arrive for warm-up
6:15 PM – Game Begins
7:00 PM – Dance party on the field for childrenDinner: Pizza will be served for $1 a slice, as well as water and juice. Pizza supply will be limited, so come on the early side if you want to grab some for dinner!
Cost: There is NO fee to attend, but if your family is inclined, there will be a $5 suggested donation to help cover costs and fundraise for the PTAs of both schools.Team Captains:
TPES: Nick Dean (nickdean10@gmail.com)
PBES: Becca Jones-Albertus (beccaj@gmail.com)
*If you are playing for TPES, please wear a white shirt. If you are playing for PBES, please wear a dark blue or black shirt.

12. Anacostia Watershed Cleanup: May 11th, 1-4pm
The students and families of TPES are invited to help pick up litter and plant native plants on May 11th, 1-4pm at the TPES school grounds and the areas surrounding in the Anacostia Watershed

13. Calling All Parents and Guardians – Field Day is Coming: May 13, 15, 16
Field Day is coming for all grade levels in May. We need many parent volunteers to have a successful experience for our children. A Signup Genius link will be sent out next week for parents to sign up to help and have fun with our kiddos. The dates are as follows:

Kindergarten- May 13th, 9:30-11:00 a.m. Rain date-May 20th, 9:30-11:00 a.m.
First Grade- May 15th, 9:30-11:00 a.m. Rain date-May 22nd, 9:30-11:00 a.m.
Second Grade- May 16th, 9:30-11:00 a.m. Rain date-May, 23rd, 9:30-11:00 a.m.

14. TPES Art Show: Thursday, May 23

 Our school Art Show is May 23rd! The Art Show Team is seeking parent volunteers to help hang art in our halls from May 13th through May 22nd! Keep an eye out for our sign-up sheet coming out soon from Ms. Kelley.

15. Career Day Volunteers Needed: May 29, 2024

No matter what you do – banker, nurse, architect, dentist, police officer, lawyer, military, computer engineer, bus driver, or doctor – the children can learn about the world of work from you! So, if you, a relative, a neighbor, or a friend has a job that you love to talk about and share with others, being a Career Day speaker would be a perfect fit!

Volunteering does not guarantee that you will be called on to present. We will do our best to make sure we get a wide variety of careers to showcase to our students. If you are selected, you are committing to stay the entire morning session and present to 3 different classes. Each presentation will last 30 minutes (20 minutes of talking, 10 minutes of Q&A with students).

If you are interested in being a Career Day speaker or know someone who might be, please complete the interest form before April 26, 2024!
If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Althofer at Max_P_Althofer@mcpsmd.org or Mrs. Ampofo at Charlotte_Ampofo@mcpsmd.org.

16. Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting: May 30, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.
The staff of Takoma Park Elementary School will host an incoming kindergarten parent meeting on May 30, 2024. The meeting will be held virtually and will include interpreters for Spanish and Amharic.

17. Upcoming TPES Events 

April 24, 7pm: Second Grade Musical @ TPMS
April 25: National Take Your Child to Work Day
April 27, 7:30pm: DC United Game Fundraiser
April 28, 12-2pm: Rainbow Club @ The Loft
May 2-3: Incoming Kindergarten “Parents Only” Registration and Tour
May 6-10: Teacher Appreciation Week
May 7: May PTA Meeting
May 9, 6:15pm: TPES vs. PBES Soccer Game
May 11th, 1-4pm: Anacostia Watershed Cleanup @ TPES
May 13, 15, 16: Field Day
May 23: TPES Art Show
May 29: Career Day
May 30, 7pm: Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting
 
Translation | Traducción | ትርጉም
joycekmcdonough@gmail.com

April 2024 PTA Meeting Minutes

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Takoma Park Elementary School (TPES)
Piney Branch Elementary School (PBES)
Parent & Teacher Meeting (PTA)
Tuesday, April 9, 2024 from 7 – 8pm on Zoom 

7:00 PM: Meeting Kick-off 

Chris Campbell, PBES VP Communications 

  • Intro to topics to be discussed

7:05 PM: Upcoming Dates & Announcements

Chris Campbell, PBES VP Communications 

Joyce McDonough, TPES VP Communications

JOINT TPES/PBES ANNOUNCEMENTS: ready by Chris Campbell, PBES VP Communications 

  • April 10 –  No School for Students – Grading and Planning for end of term
  • April 22 – Asynchronous Day for Students – Professional day for teachers There is no school for students on Monday April 22nd. Students will receive asynchronous assignments to bring home on Wednesday, April 17th. Students will return the assignments following the asynchronous learning day
  • May 9 – TPES and PBES Soccer Game – Details to be shared soon

PBES ANNOUNCEMENTS: read by Chris Campbell, PBES VP Communications 

  • 5th Grade Panoramic Picture: The 5th grade panoramic picture will be taken on April 17th. Orders are now being accepted.
  • PBES Yearbooks: Yearbooks are on sale now. The price is $20. They may be ordered online here. 

TPES ANNOUNCEMENTS:  Read by Claire Dean, TPES PTA Vice President

  • There will be an Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting-May 30, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. The staff of Takoma Park Elementary School will host an incoming kindergarten parent meeting on May 30, 2024. The meeting will be held virtually and will include interpreters for Spanish and Amharic.
  • Please Submit Your Read-a-thon Pledges Read-a-thon pledges were due April 8 but we’d never turn away your donations! 🙂 Pledges support all PTA programs, and the Read-a-thon historically has been one of the TPES PTA’s most important fundraisers! You can submit pledges via PayPal here:  https://tpespta.net/read-a-thon/. Or you can make a check payable to TPES PTA and put it in your child’s Dolphin Folder or mail it to TPES PTA at 7511 Holly Avenue, Takoma Park MD 20912.
  • Volunteers Needed for TPES PTA Book Fair with Bookworm Central: April 15-19. The book fair is less than ONE WEEK away and we still have MANY volunteer openings. Please consider signing up here. This will be our first time supporting Northern Virginia-based Bookworm Central rather than Scholastic and want to make it a huge success!
    • Evening Book Fair Hours: The Book Fair will be open for evening shopping hours from 5:00 – 7:00 PM on the following dates:
    • Tuesday, 4/16:  Pajama Night!  Come dressed in your coziest pajamas for some book shopping.
    • Thursday, 4/18:  Dress as Your Favorite Book Character!  Celebrate a love of reading by dressing as a favorite book character while you shop (No masks, weapons, etc.).
    • PTA Donations for Book Purchases: The PTA is committed to ensuring that every child can shop for a book during the book fair.  If you are interested in donating to help the PTA fund books for our TPES community, please donate here and note in the Comments that the donation is toward book fair vouchers.
    • Teacher Wishlists: Teachers will have a chance to prepare lists of books that they would like for their classroom during Preview Day on 4/12.  Parents can purchase those books for classroom and specials teachers during either the on-site book fair or at our online book fair.
    • Online Book Fair: Our online book fair will remain open through the school year.  There are books for all ages available at the online fair.  TPES PTA receives 15% of the proceeds for books purchased through the online fair.  https://www.bookwormcentral.com/TakomaPark
    • Please contact Claire Dean and Lesley Perry at bookfair@tpespta.net.  
  • Teacher Appreciation Committee Seeking Gifts/Donations for Teacher Raffle We are seeking gifts to raffled off to teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week, May 6-10. Some ideas include giving time for pet sitting, a homemade casserole, your favorite cookie recipe, gift cards, gift certificates, etc.  Gifts in any amount are appreciated and welcomed! Please reach out to Betsy to let her know what you can contribute: esthergarcete@gmail.com
  • STEM Night Feedback Did you come to STEM Night? If so, we’d love your feedback. Please fill out this form to share your thoughts. 
  • Kindergarten Enrollment 2024-25 Now Open Kindergarten online registration is now open. For information regarding kindergarten enrollment for the 2024-25 school year, including important documents needed to register, please visit the MCPS website (https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/info/enroll/kindergarten/). If you have any questions or would like more information on how to enroll at Takoma Park Elementary School, please call 240-740-0980 or email Ms. Hottel-Cox at anne_m_hottel-cox@mcpsmd.org. 
  • Come cheer on D.C. United on MCPS Night as they take on the Seattle Sounders FC on Saturday, April 27 at 7:30pm. Takoma Park Elementary School will have its own section. A portion of the ticket sales go to support the TPES PTA so we can continue to offer support to the school. Tickets for the TPES section can be purchased here:  https://fevo-enterprise.com/Takomapark5  
  • Yearbooks! If you’d like to order a yearbook for your child, please use this link. Yearbooks cost $22 and will be distributed at the end of the school year. 

7:10 PM: TPES Career Day (Kaitlin Caruso)

  • Career Day will take place at TPES on May 29, 2024 from 9:30 to 11:20 am
  • No matter what you do – banker, nurse, architect, dentist, police officer, lawyer, military, computer engineer, bus driver, or doctor – the children can learn about the world of work from you! So, if you, a relative, a neighbor, or a friend has a job that you love to talk about and share with others, being a Career Day speaker would be a perfect fit!
  • Volunteering does not guarantee that you will be called on to present. We will do our best to make sure we get a wide variety of careers to showcase to our students. If you are selected, you are committing to stay the entire morning session and present to 3 different classes. Each presentation will last 30 minutes (20 minutes of talking, 10 minutes of Q&A with students).  
  • If you are interested in being a Career Day speaker or know someone who might be, please complete the interest form before April 26, 2024!
  • If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Althofer at Max_P_Althofer@mcpsmd.org or Mrs. Ampofo at Charlotte_Ampofo@mcpsmd.org.  

7:15 PM: Kaysi-Ann Webley,  (Special Projects Coordinator – City of Takoma Park)

  • Presentation on  Earth Day/Free Bike Repairs/Bike Month/Spring Safe Routes Survey 
  • Funds from TKPK 5K to TPES and PBES $661.02 for each school
  • Parent Surveys: 
    • PINEY BRANCH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL URL: http://www.saferoutesdata.org/surveyformparent.cfm?key=6693730 
    • TAKOMA PARK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL URL: http://www.saferoutesdata.org/surveyformparent.cfm?key=2690359

Presentation:

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1ELjncL0W2DlS38Egur6KRVgbLjizdiu8/edit#slide=id.p1

7:25 PM: Koko Lawrence and Ashley van Norden (PBES Special Educators)

  • Understanding Neurodiversity and how to support at neurodivergent kids at school and at home  

https://www.canva.com/design/DAGBvweeHeY/uC_bDnW8zLOlt1ykQ4XCDw/edit?utm_content=DAGBvweeHeY&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton

Resources: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/17o8tpP2M8t-In1BtAkcwA5X1zAbRQKMwH57CR8cxdsw/edit#slide=id.p

7:40 PM: Q & A

Q&A – Koko and Ashley’s presentation

Q: Does the school offer testing?

A: Yes, if we go through child find and determine impact, with consent, can be tested. We have a school psychologist for assessments. Parents can also seek outside specialists.

Q: Can you talk about the 2 E (Twice Exceptional) program options for students with that diagnosis.

A: There are special educations services so students can receive pull out intervention, some receive in class support. No specific programming outside tailoring.

https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/curriculum/enriched/gtld/

Q: What is the timeframe between when a family enters the child find process and when they ultimately receive supports (if required)

A:  About 90 days.

Q: Is there any education being provided to the students to normalize neurodivergency?

A: Educators and classrooms have been intentional about embracing normalizing differences and providing accommodations such as different seating types, etc.

Q: I know this presentation was specific to PB, I’m wondering if TPES has similar accommodations?

A: All processes are same for MCPS.

7:50 PM: Budget Updates

Amy Swift, TPES PTA Treasurer

Rachael Pierotti, PBES PTA Treasurer

Q: What happens to any money left over at end of year

A: Rolls over and will get applied to next year’s budget.

7:58 PM: THANK YOU

Ingrid Gardiner,  PBES PTA President

  • Reminder that next meeting will be on May 7 @ 7 PM 

REQUEST: If anyone is able or knows anyone willing to be a translator, please reach out. We would like to provide translation and have not been able to for the last few meetings.

PTA Suggestion Box:

Please share comments and ideas for meeting topics:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSffIWOOmTZloAzFJHnvKrJiRaD-hNiRRt-18VfwFjZyZgWTmg/viewform



joycekmcdonough@gmail.com

April 15 Dolphin Digest – TPES PTA Weekly Newsletter

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In this issue: 

  1. April PTA Meeting Minutes Now Available
  2. TPES PTA Book Fair THIS WEEK with Bookworm Central: April 15-19
  3. Spring Individual & Class Pictures: April 18th & 19th
  4. Asynchronous Learning Day for Students: April 22 
  5. National Take Your Child to Work Day: Thursday, April 25
  6. Cheer on D.C. United and Support TPES PTA: April 27, 7:30pm 
  7. TPES/PBES Rainbow Club: April 28, 12-2pm @ Loft Collective
  8. Seeking Gifts/Donations for Teacher AppreciationRaffle: May 6-10
  9. TPES Art Show: Thursday, May 23
  10. Career Day Volunteers Needed: May 29, 2024
  11. Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting-May 30, 2024 at 7 p.m.
  12. Kindergarten Enrollment 2024-25 Now Open
  13. Pedestrian Safety Art Contest
  14. Upcoming TPES Events 
  1. April PTA Meeting Minutes Now Available

The April PTA meeting minutes are now available here and on our website and includes announcements and important dates, TPES Career day, Earth Day/Free Bike Repairs/Bike Month/Spring Safe Routes Survey, and presentation by PBES special education teachers on neurodiversity .

  1. TPES PTA Book Fair THIS WEEK with Bookworm Central: April 15-19

All students will visit the Book Fair in Room 500 with their classes.

  • School Day Shopping: Here’s the class visit schedule.
  • Evening Hours:  The fair is open Tuesday and Thursday 5:00-7:00pm for families to visit. Tuesday – Pajama Night! Thursday – Dress as your favorite book character! Kush Food Truck will be serving up yummy food outside.
  • eWallet: Visit https://www.bookwormcentral.com/ to set up your child’s eWallet so you don’t need to send cash with your child (though we accept cash, too!).  Please note that the eWallet will not work unless you see “STATUS:  Card on File.”  That means that the credit card successfully linked to your child’s eWallet.  Volunteers can look up eWallets so do not worry if you forget to print it.
  • Build a teacher’s classroom library: “Wish list” folders are located at the book fair entrance. If you can’t make it in person, send a note with your child and we’ll help them purchase an item their teacher will appreciate.
  • Online fair: For at-home shopping and a much wider selection, including for all-ages, shop our online fair open until June.
  • Volunteering: Shifts remain! Sign up online.

Questions? Email bookfair@tpespta.net.

  1. Spring Individual & Class Pictures: April 18th & 19th

 Freed Studios will be at TPES to take Individual and class pictures on April 18th & 19th (Thursday & Friday). Check your child’s take home folder for an order form and for more information.

  1. Asynchronous Learning Day for Students: April 22 

Students will not come to school on April 22, 2024. Instead, students will have a “work from home” day. They will be provided school work, online and in paper form to be completed on that day. Students will be provided packets of school work that will also be available on MyMCPS Classroom. Attendance for school will be taken based on the work turned in to the teacher. Students who do not turn in work will be marked absent that day. All work must be turned in by May 6, 2024. The staff will be engaging in professional development on that day but there will be a small number of staff available to answer questions and help with computer challenges.

  1. National Take Your Child to Work Day: Thursday, April 25

If you will be taking your child/children to work with you, please provide a note or email Mrs. Hottel-Cox at Anne_M_Hottel-Cox@mcpsmd.org, our attendance secretary, prior to the absence from school and it will be excused.

  1. Cheer on D.C. United and Support TPES PTA: April 27, 7:30pm 

Come cheer on D.C. United on MCPS Night as they take on the Seattle Sounders FC on Saturday, April 27 at 7:30pm.  Takoma Park Elementary School will have its own section. A portion of the ticket sales go to support the TPES PTA so we can continue to offer support to the school. Tickets for the TPES section can be purchased here:  https://fevo-enterprise.com/Takomapark5  Go D.C. United and TPES Dolphins!

  1. TPES/PBES Rainbow Club: April 28, 12-2pm @ Loft Collective

The joint TPES/PBES Rainbow Club is having our spring meet-up on April 28th from 12-2 at The Loft. Email rainbowclubtkpk@gmail.com for more information.

  1. Seeking Gifts/Donations for Teacher AppreciationRaffle: May 6-10

We are seeking gifts to raffled off to teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week, May 6-10. Some ideas include giving time for pet sitting, a homemade casserole, your favorite cookie recipe, gift cards, gift certificates, etc.  Gifts in any amount are appreciated and welcomed! Please reach out to Betsy to let her know what you can contribute: esthergarcete@gmail.com

  1. TPES Art Show: Thursday, May 23

 Our school Art Show is May 23rd! The Art Show Team is seeking parent volunteers to help hang art in our halls from May 13th through May 22nd! Keep an eye out for our sign-up sheet coming out soon from Ms. Kelley.

  1. Career Day Volunteers Needed: May 29, 2024

No matter what you do – banker, nurse, architect, dentist, police officer, lawyer, military, computer engineer, bus driver, or doctor – the children can learn about the world of work from you! So, if you, a relative, a neighbor, or a friend has a job that you love to talk about and share with others, being a Career Day speaker would be a perfect fit!

Volunteering does not guarantee that you will be called on to present. We will do our best to make sure we get a wide variety of careers to showcase to our students. If you are selected, you are committing to stay the entire morning session and present to 3 different classes. Each presentation will last 30 minutes (20 minutes of talking, 10 minutes of Q&A with students).

If you are interested in being a Career Day speaker or know someone who might be, please complete the interest form before April 26, 2024!

If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Althofer at Max_P_Althofer@mcpsmd.org or Mrs. Ampofo at Charlotte_Ampofo@mcpsmd.org.

  1. Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting-May 30, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.

The staff of Takoma Park Elementary School will host an incoming kindergarten parent meeting on May 30, 2024. The meeting will be held virtually and will include interpreters for Spanish and Amharic.

  1. Kindergarten Enrollment 2024-25 Now Open

Kindergarten online registration is now open. For information regarding kindergarten enrollment for the 2024-25 school year, including important documents needed to register, please visit the MCPS website (https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/info/enroll/kindergarten/).

If you have any questions or would like more information on how to enroll at Takoma Park Elementary School, please call 240-740-0980 or email Ms. Hottel-Cox at anne_m_hottel-cox@mcpsmd.org.

  1. Pedestrian Safety Art Contest

The Montgomery County Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program has launched our annual Pedestrian Safety Art Contest for all elementary school (private & public) students in Montgomery County. The purpose of the contest is to have students use their creativity to educate themselves and others about the importance of walking safely. Not only is it important for students to go to school, but they MUST get there safely.

  1. Upcoming TPES Events 

April 15-19: TPES Book Central Book Fair

April 18-19: Spring Individual & Class Pictures

April 22: Asynchronous Learning/Snow Make Up Day

April 25: National Take Your Child to Work Day

April 27, 7:30pm: DC United Game Fundraiser

May 6-10: Teacher Appreciation Week

May 7: May PTA Meeting

May 23: TPES Art Show

May 29: Career Day

May 30, 7pm: Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting

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