Important Dates to Remember
March 20 School Site Council Meeting 3:15 pm
March 23 Principals Coffee 8:30 am– Staff Room
March 23 6-7 pm - Open House
March 24 Spring Pictures
April 4 Parent University: Preparing for Middle School - 5:30-7:00pm Zoom
April 5 PTA Meeting 7pm - Staff Room
April 10 -14 Spring Recess – No School
April 20 PTA – Multicultural Fair
April/May CAASPP Testing dates (grades 3-5)
May 11 Reclassification
May 16 Science Night 3:00 pm
Landels News
Deal Landels Families,
Our staff and students are so excited to welcome you to our in-person Open House on Thursday, March 23rd! Families are invited to visit all classrooms and celebrate student learning. Here’s the schedule:
6:00 - 6:10pm - Welcome message on blacktop
6:10 - 7:00pm - Classrooms and MUR open (Art show in the MUR)
6:45 - 7:15pm - Ice cream social sponsored by PTA (on the blacktop - MUR will remain open)
Please keep in mind that Open House is NOT a time for parent-teacher conferences. If you have specific questions about your child’s progress, please contact your child’s teacher to meet at a different time.
CAASPP Testing
Please join us at next week’s principal’s coffee to learn more about CAASPP testing. It is very important that all 3rd-5th graders are present for testing. Not only is this an opportunity for students to demonstrate their understanding of grade-level content, but the data also helps us to improve our instruction and plan for intervention. Please ensure that your child is present on testing days (see below) and avoid scheduling appointments during the testing block (8:30-10:10am). Thank you!
April 25th-April 27th - ELA Testing for 3rd-5th
May 2nd-May 4th - Math Testing for 3rd-5th
May 9th-May 10th - Science Testing for 5th Only
Safety Reminders - Arrival
If you walk your child on campus, please make sure to leave by 8:10am. We are a closed campus from 8:10am-3pm (8:10-12:15pm on minimum days). Only scheduled volunteers that have signed in at the office should be on campus during school hours.
Dismissal
When picking students up by car, please remember to stay in your car so as not to impede the flow of traffic. For the safety of students and staff, children are expected to stay with their adult or sit/stand by the benches until their adult arrives. Children should not be running/playing at this time.
Thank you!
Pieter Dolmans
5th Grade Potluck
On March 17, 2023 Graham PTA and MVEF are hosting a casual potluck-style dinner to welcome future Graham 6th graders and other new Graham Middle School families (including those who enrolled mid-year this year) to Graham Middle School.
This is a great opportunity for students and families to meet each other and make new friends, explore the school, and learn more about the programs that Graham Middle School, the PTA, and MVEF provide.To help with planning a great afternoon, please use this link to register: http://bit.ly/3KQJkcg
CSMA Art Show Volunteers for Open House
We are looking for volunteers to help set up the Art Show in the MUR. Please fill out the Art Show Volunteer Form if you are available to help during the week of March 20, even if you are only available for a few hours.
LANDELS HELPS OUR COMMUNITY
Ronald McDonald House gives families with a sick child what they need most—each other.
Their mission is simple: provide critically ill children with communities of support, access to medical care and the healing power of family and home. Their objectives are clear: ease the emotional and financial burden families endure.
Landels is asking for donations to create care kits for families
Remember: All items must be new and in original packaging.
· Toiletry Kits: (Travel-sized)
Shampoo, Conditioner, Bar soap, Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Deodorant
· Snack Packs: (Individually packaged, non-perishable snacks)
Pretzels, Fruit snacks, Granola bars, Cookies, Chips, Small waters/drinks
Please bring your donation to the office by Friday, March 31.
We have a box for each grade level.
LEAP
Discuss the classes below with your student and have him/her sign up in the office if interested.
Story Time (Grades K-3, max 15 students)
Tuesday, Mar21, 3-4pm, Room 3
Come enjoy listening to the story of Pippi Longstocking!
H.I.T.S. Tennis (Grades K-1, max 12 students)
Thursdays, Mar16-Apr27, 12:30-1:30pm, Blacktop
Learn the fundamentals of tennis through drills and games, and gain life skills like Honesty, Inspiration, Teamwork, and Sportsmanship.
MVWSD News
The Board of Trustees will meet on Thursday, March 16 at 6:00 p.m.
Some of the topics include:
· Second Interim Financial Report
· Wellness Policy Progress Report
· English Language Learners Reclassification Update
· School Safety Update
For meeting details and agenda, please click here: https://www.mvwsd.org/trustees.
Electives selection for grades 5-7 opens soon
It is the time of year when our incoming middle school students (grades 5-7) choose their elective courses for next year. All 5th-7th graders should select their course electives online by April 7, 2023 through the PowerSchool portal. Fifth- through seventh-grade parents, please look for an email in your inbox dated March 24 with links to course catalogs and directions. Please talk with your student and then log in to your PowerSchool portal account (either student’s or parent’s) beginning March 27 to help your student select his/her electives. If you have difficulty with PowerSchool, please contact your school secretary. If you have not confirmed your child's enrollment for the 2023-24 school year, elective course selection will not be available.
Introducing MVWSD Plus+
We are pleased to introduce a new district program that aims to provide qualifying students with enriching summer and after-school care. Two opportunities are coming soon:
+Summer Camp 2023
Summer learning is getting a makeover! +Summer Camp will be hosted at district sites and operated by partners YMCA and Right At School. These full day camps will feature YMCA’s and RAS’s award-winning programs as well as exciting and enriching workshops led by MVWSD teachers, CSMA Art and Music instructors, and Canopy outdoor educators.
+Afterschool for the 2023-24 School Year
Qualifying students will be able to attend Right At School, YMCA, or Beyond the Bell after school clubs free of charge. These programs will support students from the end of the school day until 6pm and full-day during certain school year breaks, such as Thanksgiving week.
Who qualifies?
Students who are socioeconomically disadvantaged and/or English Learners. If you have questions or think you may qualify, contact your school office.
For more details, check out our MVWSD Plus+ website and please look for individualized applications by the end of March.
Seeking members for the Sustainability Task Force
MVWSD is seeking members for a Sustainability Task Force to work on current and future environmental and sustainable practices at our schools and campuses. The goal of the group is to give meaningful feedback to the superintendent and support MVWSD towards achieving its goals of becoming more green in its facilities and practices.
We are seeking a combination of district-level leaders, principals, teachers, staff members, and parents who represent the interests of both elementary and middle schools. Committee members will be expected to attend and participate in meetings held every other month (on average) online during the school year in the evening hours. Applications are due by March 23 and found at this link. More information is at https://www.mvwsd.org/about/committees.
Fuel for the Future: National Nutrition Month
Stay Nourished and Save Money
Healthy eating doesn’t have to be expensive - it’s an important part of taking care of yourself and your family. Here are some ways to stay nourished while saving money:
· Plan your meals ahead of time and use a grocery list
· Choose seasonal fruits and vegetables, which are often less expensive and more flavorful
· Resources like SNAP, WIC, and local free food programs can provide additional assistance for healthy food options.
Eating Right on a Budget (Spanish)
Crittenden Middle School Spring Musical: Matilda JR.
Crittenden Middle School proudly presents the story of a girl who dreams of a better life, and the children she inspires. This show will have audiences rooting for the "revolting children" who are out to teach the grown-ups a lesson. Packed with high-energy dance numbers and catchy songs, Matilda JR. is a joyous girl power romp. Children and adults alike will be thrilled and delighted by the story of the special little girl with an extraordinary imagination.
Showtimes:
Friday, March 24th – 7:30 pm
Saturday, March 25th – 7:30 pm
Sunday, March 26th – 2:00 pm
Performances will be held in the Crittenden Middle School Auditorium, 1701 Rock Street.
Parental Guidance Note: This show may not be appropriate for children under the age of 7.
Tickets may be purchased in advance online (see the links on the attached flyer) or by dropping off your payment and order form at the Crittenden Front Office, no later than Monday, March 20th at 2:30pm. If shows are not sold out in advance, tickets will be available for purchase at the Box Office 30 minutes prior to showtime. See the attached Ticket Order Form for details on pricing and online ticket purchases.
Graham Middle School Spring Musical: Moana Jr.
Get ready to set sail on a musical adventure with "Moana Jr."! Featuring beloved songs like "How Far I'll Go" and "You're Welcome", this musical is a must-see for fans of all ages!
The students, staff, and parents have been working so hard for months to present the best performance. Don't miss your chance to experience the magic of "Moana Jr." on stage!
Tickets are now available for purchase here. The show information is as follows:
Graham Middle School Auditorium
March 24th and 25th 7:30 pm
March 26th 2:00 pm
Adult Ticket: $15
Student Ticket: $10
Parent University: Preparing for Middle School
Date and Time: April 4, 2023 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. Registration Link: http://mvw.sd/pu040423
Nervous about middle school? We get it! Change can be daunting, but it can also lead to amazing new experiences. Join us to learn how to support your children as they prepare for the next stage in their academic and social lives. We will feature a panel of staff and students from Crittenden and Graham who will offer lots of wisdom and details about grades six, seven, and eight. See you there!
To submit your questions prior to the event, go to mvw.sd/questions.
Health and Wellness Parenting Tip: Calming Your Mind
When we feel stressed, our minds tend to jump to the past (I should have...) or to the future (What if...?). The problem is that we cannot change the past nor control the future. Focusing on the present can help us take control of our current situation and help us feel calmer and more relaxed.
Watch this video to learn more about how mindfulness can help you (or your child) be more present and relaxed.
To calm your (or your child’s) mind:
1. Look around you, and name five things you see. Pick one object, and describe what it looks like, what color, what size, and what shape it is.
2. Look for four things you can touch. Pick one of those items to touch, and describe how it feels.
3. Name three things that you can hear. At first, it might seem that there is not much to hear, but listen carefully. Focus on one sound, and describe it.
4. Look for two things you can smell. Focus on one smell, and describe it.
5. Find one thing you can taste. Focus on the taste and describe it.
You can repeat these steps every time you feel stressed to come back to the present moment.
March 2023 CAC Events
SELPA1 CAC
SELPA 1 CAC and the Learning Challenge Committee are your groups for special education and broader learning challenge needs. We are ALL having learning challenges right now, and CAC and LCC are here to help. If you have questions about learning challenges and special education needs, email [email protected] or check out www.selpa1cac.org
We encourage families to learn about the sensory needs all children: Try a Sensory Diet
Behavioral Panel of Experts - Challenging Behaviors and Strategies at different ages
Presented by SELPA 1 CAC / Palo Alto CAC
Wednesday March 22, 7 pm on Zoom
Does your child have behavioral challenges at school and at home?
Behavior is communication. Join the CAC and expert panelists from CAPTAIN and PENT for a presentation on strategies to help with behaviors at different ages. Although CAPTAIN is focused on those students with autism spectrum concerns, these insights are suitable for all students. Have a specific question - submit your question ahead of time to our panel here: Questions for the Panel
Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEkduCurTorHNSOp-szKwNTJdpzNXprqunq
Missed our Parent Education events last year?
We have a YouTube channel with many of our past events including last year’s Inclusive Fun Fair for summer camps and recreational activities, Anxiety and Depression in Children with Learning Challenges, SMART Goals and IEP Troubleshooting, and more. Channel is here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuy7IcVz-4LTDxv2Jaq13nw
The View Teen Center: March Events
The View Teen Center is a free facility in Mountain View (263 Escuela Ave) for all Mountain View and Los Altos 6th - 12th grade students. The center is open Monday through Friday: 3:30 - 7 p.m. and Saturday: 1 - 6 p.m, and features a game room, makerspace, kitchen, computer/study room, outdoor area, and much more! March Teen Center events include a Career Day, Basketball Tournament, a St. Patrick’s Day celebration, and a Bike to Boba. See attached flyer for details about more upcoming events and programs or visit their webpage for more information.
CSA Empty Bowls Fundraiser: Tickets available now
Empty Bowls is Community Services Agency's annual fundraiser benefiting Homeless Services. Featuring bottomless ice cream, beautiful bowls, and fun children’s activities, this year’s event takes place on Sunday, April 30th from 2-4pm in Rengstorff Park. Purchase your tickets online now. If you are in need of services, please call 650-968-0836.
MVHS Spartans Sports Camp: Registration Open
Spartans Sports Camp is proud to announce that registration for Summer Camp 2023 is now open. Camp will run June 12 - July 28 this summer, and include sports, performing arts, and academic enrichment camps. Spartans Sports Camp is operated entirely by the MVHS Athletic Department and all proceeds go directly to support the sports programs at MVHS. For more information and registration, visit www.SpartansSportsCamp.com.
CTE Summer Exploration Program
Limited spaces are available for CTE’s Summer Exploration program (June 5 - 29) for students grades 7 - 12. The program is interactive with a "learn by doing" focus and students experience hands-on learning on STEAM topics. Classes include Animation, Fashion Design & Textile Art, Film & Video Production, Medical Assisting, Medical Science/Health Careers, and Veterinary Science. Registration opens in April. For more information, visit www.SVCTE.org or contact Kiran Grewal at [email protected].
PTA News
March 23 Ice Cream Social
Volunteers needed to help with our Open House Ice Cream Social! Please email [email protected] to help!
PTA will be hosting an ice cream social after the Open House as well as selling gear and hosting a visit from Lanny! Excited to see everybody on campus for that next week.
Movie Night Round Up
Thanks to everyone who came out to the MUR for movie night last Friday. We really enjoyed hosting you all and look forward to doing it again!
PTA is bringing afterschool Art Club by CSMA
Starting soon, in a collaboration between PTA and CSMA, we will opening up registration for CSMA Art Club, a 60 min afterschool enrichment activity that will last 9-weeks! Watch Konstella for the sign up form coming soon!
Grades 3-5 Wednesdays starting March 29, 3-4pm
Grades K-2 Thursdays starting March 30, 12:30-1:30pm
See attached flyers.
Questions? Email [email protected]
Flyers
March Lunch Menu
Silicon Valley Reads Career Fair
CTE Summer Exploration Program
Living Classroom: Docents Needed!
The View Teen Center: March Events
MVHS Spartans Sports Camp: Registration Open
Graham Middle School Spring Musical: Moana Jr.
Crittenden Middle School Spring Musical: Matilda JR.
Landels PTA Meeting Schedule 2022/2023
ART Club by CSMA Grades K-2
ART Club by CSMA Grades 3-5