Dear Redmond El Families,

Thank you to all who joined us Friday for the Veteran’s Day performances. We are so proud of our students and grateful to our Veterans for their service.

There is NO SCHOOL MONDAY November 11 to honor Veterans Day.

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Does your child have a costume you won’t be using again? We are collecting all gently used costumes to share with students needing costumes next year. If your child won’t use that Mermaid, Ghostbuster, or Black Panther costume again, please send it in to our Costume Shop collection box. It will be cleaned and made available to a lucky kid next year!

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Finally, we appreciate any support you can offer to our PTSA Hawk Fund – these funds support important programs at our school, as well as books for our Library and scholarships for special programs like Field Trips. Any little bit helps!

Donate today at http://redmondelptsa.org

Have a wonderful week,

Kirsten

Hello Families!

As a friendly reminder, the clocks were turned back last night – please make sure your clocks are adjusted so you don’t show up an hour early for school. Enjoy the extra sleep!

We appreciate everyone who has shared family Veteran information with Ms. Schoenen – there is still time to send her a photo if there is a Veteran in your family you’d like us to Honor. her email is mschoenen@lwsd.org.

Veteran’s Day Assemblies are this Friday. 2/3Q and 3 will be performing at both seatings:

1:50 for grades K, 1, 2

2:30 for grades 4, 4/5, 5

There is NO SCHOOL on Monday, November 11, to honor the service of our Veterans.

Have a wonderful week!

Kirsten

Dear Redmond Elementary Families,

Harvest/Halloween celebrations are planned by grade levels to take place on Thursday, October 31. If you have questions about your child’s celebrations, please check with their teacher. If your child will need an alternate activity, please let both your teacher and myself know. If your child wishes to dress up, costume reminders are below:

• Students cannot travel to or from school in anything that covers their face. They must be easily identifiable by school staff and bus drivers, etc. They also must be able to see clearly at all times for safety reasons.
• Costumes must be school appropriate - which means if they are bloody, violent in nature, or revealing, they cannot be worn at school.
• No weapons (including fake weapons) at school.
• It will be up to school staff to determine if a costume is appropriate. Because of this, please either send the costume in a bag, or include a change of clothing in their backpack.

For our budding artists: The deadline for Reflections Arts entries has been extended to October 31 – all entries must be dropped off with completed entry forms in the main office by 3:50 pm, October 31. We hope to to see photographs, visual art, musical or dance entries reflections students’ interpretations of the “Looking Within” theme.

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I am writing to let you know about our upcoming Veterans’ Day Assemblies on Friday, November 8th.  The third grade and 2/3 Quest classes will be performing the program, “We Honor You” at 2:00 and again at 2:30.  Parents are welcome to attend.  We want to send a special invitation out to family members who are currently serving, or those who have served in the military in the past.  The program is to honor your service.

In addition, we are hoping that you may be able to help with a project for the occasion.  We are gathering photos of veterans to include in our slide show for the assemblies.  If you have a family member whose picture you would like to include, please email them to Mrs. Schoenen at mschoenen@lwsd.org.  Please include the name of the person who served (or is currently serving) and which Redmond El student they are related to.  

Thank you for you partnership – have a wonderful week!

Kirsten

Dear Redmond El Families,

Thank you all for joining us last week for conferences! We enjoyed spending time reflecting on your students’ accomplishments so far, and setting goals for the next few months.

Please look through this week’s announcements and reminders, and let me know if you have any questions. Thank you!

~ Kirsten

This week, on Wednesday, 10/23 Students across America recognize Unity Day – thinking about all the things that unite us, and how to end bullying. More information can be found here: 

https://www.pacer.org/bullying/resources/parents/definition-impact-roles.asp 

We invite students and staff to wear orange as a sign of unity, and we will engage in school activities promoting awareness and celebrating kindness, inclusion, and the connections between us. Students have also been working on a Community Painting which will hang in the office and which highlights our common experiences.

*******************************************************************************************************Picture Retakes are Wednesday, 10/23

Students who did not have photos taken or that you would like to have a retake done can have photos retaken on Wednesday, 10/23: You can order photos at www.lifetouch.com

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Reflections Art Contest Deadline Extended to October 31:

The Reflections Program is a National PTA and Washington State PTA cultural arts competition. The purpose of this program is to provide an opportunity for students to use their creative talents by expressing themselves through their own original works.

The National PTA Reflections 2019-2020 theme is Look Within. Students may submit works of art in the categories Dance Choreography, Film Production, Literature, Music Composition, Photography, and Visual Arts.
Rules and entry forms are now available in front of the main office and also in the  PTSA website.

Deadline for entry submission – October 31, 2019 
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For Parents or Guardians of First Grade Students:

In November, the Lake Washington School District will screen all first grade students in order to identify candidates for referral to Highly Capable Services.  Highly capable services provide accelerated learning and enrichment opportunities for eligible students.

We will be using the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) Screening Form.  The assessment takes less than one hour and will be given by the first grade teachers at your child’s school on November 7, 2019, with make-up testing scheduled on November 14. If your child has an IEP or 504 plan, teachers will follow the instructions on that plan regarding testing, including any modifications or accommodations.

Students do not need any special preparation for this screening.  To learn more about the CogAT Screening Form, visit https://www.riversideinsights.com/solutions/cogat?tab=0.

If you wish more information about Elementary Highly Capable Services, please visit our website at www.lwsd.org/hcp or contact us by email at Quest@lwsd.org. If you decide taking the CogAT screener is not right for your child, simply work with your child’s teacher to complete and submit an opt-out form.

Once all first grade students have completed the screening process, the Accelerated Programs Department will contact families whose student(s) who score at the 95^th Age Percentile Rank or higher. At that time, those families will be given the opportunity to complete an online application to participate in further assessment for highly capable services.

Please email the Accelerated Programs Office at Quest@lwsd.org with any questions you have about the CogAT screening or about highly capable programs.

Dear Redmond El Families,

We are excited to see you with your students for conferences! Please be on time for conferences as teachers have very tight schedules with little time between your conference and those before and after. Release times this week are:

Monday 10/14: 12:20

Tuesday 10/15: 12:20

Wednesday 10/16: Normal 2:20

Thursday 10/17: 12:20

Friday 10/18: NO SCHOOL

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While you are at conferences, please come visit our Scholastic Book Fair in the library – Mrs. Jones has a wonderful event set up and money raised goes towards filling our own Library shelves with more amazing books to keep our students reading!

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We are just about at the half way point for Walk to School Month. Keep up the good work! We are almost there.

One way that you can get your family motivated to start thinking about not driving is by walking or biking to other activities outside of school hours! Changing your mind set and giving up driving alone to a friend’s house or to the grocery store can really help establish great habits and create a new routine for the family!

For more helpful tips on incorporating walking, biking, or carpooling check out the SchoolPool blog here.

Email the Redmond SchoolPool staff at RedmondSchoolPool@redmond.gov if you have any questions!

Have a wonderful week!

~Kirsten

Dear Redmond Families,

It is that time of year when we turn the heat on and dress in sweaters and boots in the morning – and then the sun comes out and it becomes much warmer by the time kids go to recess. This is when our Lost and Found collection gets big quickly! Many times kids come to school dressed for cool morning weather, and come home without many of the coats or hoodies they were wearing when they left home.

Please put names in everything with permanent ink – jackets, sweaters, hoodies – and even lunchboxes. If we find an item with a first and last name it makes it MUCH easier to return to its owner – otherwise they can sit in Lost and Found for weeks, with kids forgetting all about them, until we eventually need to donate items to charity.

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Wow! Walk to School Day was a huge success.  Let’s keep the magic alive and keep Walking and Rolling through the rest of October!

Students remember to fill out all your walk, bike, carpool, or bus trips on your SchoolPool calendar. If you misplace your calendar, you can print a new one here.

Email the Redmond SchoolPool staff at RedmondSchoolPool@redmond.gov if you have any questions!

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Thursday, October 10: LWSD - Elementary Highly Capable Info Night

6:00 PM

Lake Washington High School

Parent Information Night for parents of current students in grades 1 through 4. Note: Attendance is not required in order to apply.

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Lake Washington High School Performing Arts Center
12033 N.E. 80th St.
Kirkland, WA 98033

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October 11, 2019: Coffee with the Principals (9:30 in the Commons Cafe)

Any parents who would like to chat informally with Ms. Gometz and Ms. Davis are invited to come join us for coffee and light snacks at 9:30. Let us know how the start of the year has gone, ask us any questions you might have, and share your ideas! PTSA President Meg Katselis will also be with us!

Have a wonderful week!

Kirsten Gometz

Dear Redmond El Families,

This week, we are sharing with you a variety of ways to become involved and support our students and our school. We greatly value the support and community you offer all of us, and want our school to feel like home to you as well as your children.

Thank you for being such a wonderful and supportive community!

Kirsten

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Become a LINKS Lunch Buddy Today!

Did you know there are students at Redmond Elementary that are in need of a mentor? Join a student in need of some one-on-one time for lunch, games, crafts and conversation. If you or someone you know is interested, please contact Victoria Goetze-Nelson for more information: vgoetzenelson@lwsd.org or 425-936-1410.

2019-2020 SchoolPool

Participating families can help us raise up to $1,500 for our school.

Why Participate with the Redmond SchoolPool?

• To help students get more daily exercise by walking or biking to school
• To earn rewards for taking the bus
• To share carpooling duties with other families
• To help raise money for our school
• To reduce traffic congestion and local air pollution in our neighborhoods
• It’s fun!
   

How to Participate:

1. Get Your SchoolPool Calendar: Students will be given a calendar they can keep in their notebook or attach to their backpack.  If for some reason their calendar gets misplaced, a new one can be printed here.
    
2. Don’t Drive Alone to School: Each day that students take at least one walking, biking, carpool or bus trip to school they mark the calendar.
    
3. Earn Rewards! At the end of the month, turn in your completed calendar to raise $5 for our PTSA and a coupon for 1 free cookie from Hoffman’s Bakery.

Send any questions you may have to RedmondSchoolPool@Redmond.gov.

Passport Check

This week, students will have first Passport check on Thursday and Friday October  3-4 . 

Passport Club is run by PTSA volunteers and we test Red El students on their geography knowledge. Every student in Grade 1-5 get tested by parent volunteers on these days. 

Our list of Passport Club volunteers is very short. We need more volunteers, training would be provided to new volunteers.

Please use below link to sign up

 https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080949A9AD2CA46-thepassport

Dear Redmond El Families,

Thank you to all who came out last week for shave ice and BINGO – and for voting in the Fun Run Money to the general school fund! This will be used for supplemental learning activities like Field Trips and Assemblies, making school richer for every child!

Orchestra and Band Students: Orchestra and Band begin THIS WEEK. We will be ready to welcome Band and Orchestra students when they arrive via bus. You should be receiving information directly from the directors with specifics if you registered your child.

Watch DOGS 2019-2020: We will be kicking off the next Watch DOGS school year this Thursday in the Redmond Elementary Library. Watch DOGS stands for Dads of Great Students, but it can be any male role mode in our students’ lives. Whether you are a father, stepfather, grandfather, uncle, or self-identify as a “father figure” in any other way, please stop by anytime between 4:00 and 6:00 pm to learn more and sign up!

Thank you for being such a wonderful supportive community!

Kirsten

Dear Redmond Elementary Families,

Thank you, so many times, for such a warm, wonderful, supportive start to the school year! One of our goals this year, as we shared at Curriculum Night, is to build strong partnerships with our families, and last week felt like an excellent start.

Thank you for your continued patience as our buses get into their smoothly operating routine. And if your student rides a bus, thank a driver! They have been working hard this week to teach safety and routines, and to ensure all students reach their destinations safely.

For families of 4^th and 5^th graders: Your students saw and heard the instruments they have an opportunity to play this year if they join elementary band or orchestra. There will be information sessions for parents/families this Wednesday, 09/11, with opportunities to rent instruments:

6:30 PM: Band Information will be at Redmond Middle School

7:30 PM: Orchestra Information will be at Clara Barton Elementary

If you have a child interested in an instrument and rental fees are a hardship, please let us know.

That’s it for this week. If you have not yet sent in supply fees and plan to do so, please do by the end of this week.

Thank you!

Kirsten Gometz

Well, we are here. What a year it has been!

From all of us, thank you for the gift of having shared this year with your child and your family. Every member of our community makes this a better and more vibrant place to be.

Last Week, I shared that Mr. Aguirre, Ms, Tynes, and Ms. Findley will all be moving to different schools next year. Ms. Mathre will also be moving within the district, to teach Safety Net at Frost Elementary. We wish her well and will miss her smiling face!

THIS WEEK:

• Yearbooks have arrived and will be distributed to students on Monday. A Limited number will be available in the office for purchase ($20). These are first come, first served and we cannot hold these for anyone. Thank you to PTSA President Meg Katselis for her help in putting this year’s yearbook together!
• Dismissal on Wednesday is at 3:50.
• The last day of school is Thursday, 06/20. Students will dismiss at 12:20. Report cards will come home with them that day.
• 5^th Grade Promotion is at 10:00 am on Thursday in the gym. If you have a 5^th grader heading to RMS in the fall, the RMS athletics packet is attached to this email in case your student is interested in any sports participation.
• Next Year, on August 29, Meet the Teacher  will be held 3:00-4:00 and Curriculum Night will be that night. Please keep an eye on the Reader Board and emails in August as more detailed information is available.

It has been an amazing year, full of challenge and growth. We are amazingly proud of your children and have loved partnering with you. Thank you, and have a wonderful summer.

Kirsten Gometz

Hello Red El families,

What a beautiful weekend! A sign of summer, coming up quickly!

Thank you to the many of you who have supported our fun run by sending in pledges or forwarding the link to your family and friends. We are making great progress! The students will all participate in the Run for Red EL THIS THURSDAY, and will also participate in some Field Day activities as well. Please make sure they are dressed in comfortable running clothes, socks and shoes they can run in (no boots, sandals, or open toed shoes). We want them to have fun AND stay safe.

Thank you to our PTSA for their support in helping this Fun Run happen, and for providing our kiddos with popsicles once they are done! It looks like it will be a perfect day.

As we near the end of the year, we wanted to let you know of a few teachers who will be leaving for different roles in different schools. Please join me in saying thank you and wishing farewell to Mr. Aguirre (5^th grade), Ms Tynes (Special Education), and Ms. Findley (1^st grade). All are moving to positions and schools they are excited about, and we will miss them very much.

As a reminder, this week’s Wednesday is an early release (2:20)

NEXT Wednesday, June 19, is a FULL DAY (3:50 release).

Thursday, June 20 is the LAST Day of school and a half day (12:20 release).

Summer is getting close! We are so proud of the growth your students have made, and have loved sharing this year with you!

Dear Redmond EL Families,
 
We are getting very close to the end! Thank you to our amazing volunteers and our PTSA Aweards committee, as well as our Volunteer Tea committee for Friday’s celebration. It was a wonderful reminder of the power of a volunteer – special recognition to Morgan Seymour, Paul Leto, Teresa Huntley, Cody Aguirre, Carol Grammer, Kelsee Herrick, and especially Officer Marshall Tolbert, Lifetime honoree for all of his work as a lunch buddy in support of our kids.
 
A few reminders:
•    Pledging is now open for the Run for Red El Fun Run – every dollar raised will go directly to your kids in the form of field trips, assemblies, and academic enrichment!
•    The last day to turn in Library books is this Friday, June 7 – after that, the library must assign fines to make sure we have our full inventory, or that we can replace any missing books.
•    Tdap immunization info for students moving on to middle school can be delivered to our office so we may update records – the printable PDF form is attached to this email.
•    The last day for students is Thursday, June 20, with a 12:20 release.
Your students are doing an amazing job and we are still teaching right through the last week – so please make sure we have every student here on time every day!
 
Have a wonderful week!
 
Kirsten
 

Dear Redmond El Families,

There is NO SCHOOL on Monday, May 27, because of Memorial Day.

Tuesday, May 28 is a full school day.

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Help for Our Community

As many of you know, there was a serious fire near Redmond Elementary last night. While everyone escaped safely, one of our families has been displaced and has lost almost all of their possessions. Many of you have contacted me asking how to help. These items would be most helpful:

• Boys’ shirts, sizes 7 and 8
• Boys’ pants or shorts, sizes 6 and 7 (also underclothes and socks)
• Boys’ shoes/sneakers, sizes 13/1 and 12/13
• Gift cards to Grocery Stores, Target, and Fred Meyer

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Thanks to the efforts of our custodian, many of our Lost and Found items have made their way back to their owners. We will hold onto any remaining items until the end of the school year, when any unclaimed items will be donated to charity.

Enjoy your long weekend and thank you for being such a wonderful and supportive community.

Kirsten

Hello all!
 
Just a few quick notes this week – SBA tests are scheduled this week for the following dates:
Monday, May 20: Make-up Tests
Tuesday, May 21: Grades 3 and 5
Wednesday, May 22: Grade 3
Thursday, May 23: Grades 4, 4/5Q, and 5
 
There is NO SCHOOL on Monday, May 27 to celebrate Memorial Day
 
There IS school on Friday, May 24 and Tuesday, May 28 – Snow Make-up Days
 
We have been making extra efforts to reunite students with items in Lost and Found. Because we no longer have room to hold it all, we will donate items to charity after this week.
 
If your family is in need of children’s coats or hoodies, please come view items on Saturday, May 25 from 10:00 am – 12:00 noon by the Drop Off Lane – any unclaimed items are free to you before we donate.
 
Have a wonderful week!
 
Kirsten Gometz
 

Dear Redmond El Families,
 
THANK YOU so much for the wonderful show of appreciation you gave to our amazing teachers last week – and for the incredible potluck lunch put on by so many of you. It was a wonderful way to end a fantastic week – we are so very grateful for your partnership. Thank you, too, to all who came out on Friday night and especially to our Associate Principal Taylor Davis-Mitchell for coordinating the community meal!
 
Many grades will be testing this week for SBA (Smarter Balanced Assessments). Please know that our teachers have worked hard to help your 3rd-5thgraders prepare – all we ask of you is a good night’s sleep, a nutritious breakfast, and to send a healthy snack if your student is not fasting. Please make sure your student is at school ON TIME – we cannot bring them in to start testing if the session has already begun. We are aware that these can be long days and the best thing we can do is make sure that the kids – and teachers – know we believe in them. SBA schedule for this week is as follows:
Monday, 05/13: Grades 3, 4, and 4/5Quest
Tuesday, 05/14: Grades 3, 4, and CLC
Wednesday, 05/15: CLC
Thursday, 05/16: Grades 3, 4/5 Quest, 5, and CLC
Friday, 05/17: None
Finally, if your child is scheduled to test but is Sick, PLEASE do keep them home – we can arrange make-up tests as needed.
 
Have a wonderful week!
 
Kirsten Gometz
 

Hello Redmond El families,
 
This week, in addition to being the first week many grades begin SBA testing, we also celebrate teacher appreciation week! Please join me and our students in thanking our teachers for their heartfelt hard work every day – in grade level classrooms, teaching English or Safety Net or Special Education… they are amazing and we love them.
 
Monday and Tuesday: Bring a flower for your teacher! These can be bought, picked, or drawn with crayon – all are loved!
Wednesday: Make a card or draw a picture! 
Thursday: Parent Potluck – please use the signupgenius set up by one of our parents to make and bring a food item to feed our teachers! This was  HUGE hit last year! 
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30e0f4caaab2eabfa7-redmond1
Friday: Thank Goodness It’s Friday! – Send a “comfort item”: your teacher might appreciate – a comfy pair of socks, a nice soap, a magazine, or a thoughtful note from you – something to help them relax and enjoy the weekend, and know that their hard work is appreciated.
 
Thank you for helping celebrate all the hard work our teachers do every day!
 
  
Kirsten Gometz 
 

Dear Redmond Elementary Families,
 
Beginning last week, and with support and coaching from our Student Council, Redmond Elementary students have been “Doing One Thing” to help our planet – picking up litter, donating old clothes, reusing or recycling items as they are able. We applaud their efforts and encourage your family to talk with your child about how to act as stewards for our planet – this Earth Week and every day.
 
As we care for our planet, this Friday also offers us an opportunity to honor the parts of our planet our families came from – International Night is a wonderful celebration of our diverse community. We hope you will join our PTSA and all participating families for food, fun, music, and culture. Scholarship tickets are available; contact your teacher to secure these.
 
Have a wonderful week – and if you haven’t already, please VOTE!
 
Kirsten
 

Dear Redmond Elementary families,
 
We deeply value the partnership between school and our parents and families that we share through our PTSA. Next year, we have several PTSA board chairs who will be finishing and we would love to engage you in our PTSA!
 
As a PTSA board member, you can help bring in extra programs, oversee yearbook creation, oversee Vision and Hearing screening for our students, or plan events like the Family Dance.
 
We need you! If you are interested please let me know and I will connect you with our PTSA board to talk about open roles for next year! ALL ARE WELCOME!
 
Contact us TODAY about options to help your school in the 2019-2020 School year!
 
Kirsten Gometz, Principal
 
 

Dear Redmond Elementary Families,
 
Welcome Back! We missed you! We hope you enjoyed your week, and that everyone is going to come back rested and healthy! (As a reminder, students must be kept home for a full 24 hours after a fever or any incidents of vomiting – we appreciate your help in keeping everyone here as healthy as possible!
 
This week, students will have class photos taken on Tuesday, April 16. EVERY student will receive a class photo free of charge, thanks to our friends at Lifetouch photography. Our PTSA needs volunteers to help with this process – If you are an approved LWSD volunteer, please sign up here:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0a49adae28a5f49-help
 
Next Friday, one of the best nights of the year occurs – International Night! We hope to see everyone there as we learn from one another about the many cultures at Redmond Elementary through food, dance, artifacts, and song. Tickets are $10 per family in advance, and $12 at the door as available.
 
Have a wonderful week!
 
Kirsten
 

Thank you to everyone for your level heads and especially to the fifth grade parents and teachers who had to be flexible in the moment on Friday afternoon. The office staff and particularly Mrs. Mitchell handled the concerns and necessary precautions amazingly, and it was a testament to how seriously we take safety and how well everyone helped the students remain calm. I am SO proud of our team and of your students, who did an amazing job!
 
We also owe recognition and gratitude to the Redmond Police Department – as soon as we notified them that we were going into Lockdown, there were multiple officers on site checking the school and its vicinity on bicycle, on foot, and in patrol cars. I saw at least 6 officers, and they assessed the situation quickly and seriously, and were able to assure our safety in under 30 minutes. Thank you, RPD!
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There will be NO SCHOOL April 8-12 for April Break. Be safe, rest up, get HEALTHY, and we will see you all on April 15!
 
Thank you,
 
Kirsten Gometz
 

Dear Redmond El Families,
 
Tell your neighbors and friends: Register early for 2019-20 Kindergarten
If you live in Lake Washington School District (LWSD) and your child will be five years old on or before August 31, 2019, now is the time to register them for Kindergarten! Registration takes place at your neighborhood school during regular school hours through the beginning of the 2019-20 school year.
While registration will continue throughout the school year and summer, parents are highly encouraged to register students as soon as possible. Doing so helps ensure class sizes are balanced and adequate staff are hired in time for the new school year. 
Visit the Kindergarten Information webpage for more information.
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Talking to Your Child About Sexual Health
Lake Washington School District is excited to partner with the King County Public Health Department in hosting an informational parent event: How to Talk to Your Child About Sexual Health. Our presenter is Becky Reitzes, Health Educator and Family Planning for King County Public Health. This event will be held at the Resource Center Board Room on Tuesday, April 23 from 7:00-8:00 p.m. This informative evening will provide strategies and tips for parents to help them engage in age-appropriate conversations with their children about a topic that can be considered difficult to discuss.
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DreamBox Learning: Personalized Digital Resource   
 
Based on the recommendation of the Capital Technology Advisory, DreamBox Learning has been made available to all elementary schools for broad scale piloting in 2018-19.  DreamBox Learning, a supplemental adaptive math program, meets current best practice in digital learning approaches with research and efficacy studies supporting use of the program within math instruction.
 
DreamBox Learning is a program that:
•    Adapts to each learner
•    Builds on each learner’s prior personal knowledge
•    Empowers learners to make self-directed choices
•    Continually assesses to form a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts
•    Utilizes data to individualize instruction appropriately
Teachers participating in the pilot are incorporating DreamBox into their math instruction and may ask that students continue their learning at home.  The recommended time between home and school use is 30-60 minutes per week for K-2nd grade students and 60-90 minutes per week for 3rd - 5th grade students. Efficacy studies do not support usage beyond the recommended minutes per week.
 
Parents can support their child’s work in DreamBox Learning at home in the following ways:
•    Provide time to use DreamBox Learning at home (with a computer or iPad)
•    Set up a parent access account to monitor progress
•    Encourage lesson completion (this helps the program adapt to individual needs)
•    Allow independent work within the program (the program adjusts based on student responses and will adapt accordingly)
•    Encourage the use of the “Help/Hint” button when questions arise
 
Parents who wish to experience DreamBox Learning can go to www.dreambox.com, click on “Parent” and then click on “Try Sample Lessons” (found in the middle of the page).
 
Have a wonderful week!
Kirsten
 

Dear Redmond El Families,
 
This week, please join us in recognizing and celebrating our dedicated and amazing Classified Staff Members. Who are they?
 
•    They are the crossing guards who greet your child at crosswalks in all weather, or who welcome them when they arrive on the bus each morning.
•    They are the health room and front office staff who take care of bumps, upset tummies, and care for your child when they are not well, and who welcome each visitor to our school.
•    They are the kitchen staff arriving early to prep breakfasts and lunches, making sure every child has a delicious and healthy meal ready for them.
•    They are our classroom aides and paraprofessionals, aiding in coaching behavior and helping every student reach their best potential.
•    They are our custodians, who lovingly clean and tent the spaces our kids learn, eat, and play in, every day.
Please join us this week in saying thank you in any way you can – a smile, a card, a flower, or simply a “Thank you for what you do” when you see them. We are so lucky to have this dedicated crew!
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Below is the information sent out earlier this week – the LWSD’s plans to make up instructional time lost during our snowy adventures this year. Please let me know if you have any questions! Have a wonderful week!
~ Kirsten
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The district has finalized plans to make up for the days and time missed due to the February snow events. The 2018-19 calendar has been modified to reflect the changes. As a reminder, school districts can request a waiver from the state for missed school days during the Governor’s declared state of emergency. Districts are not allowed to seek a waiver that would impact the required K-12 average instructional hours of 1,027. After analysis of both requirements, it was determined that a total of 3.5 days must be made up to maintain compliance with both requirements. The 2018-19 calendar has May 28 built-in as a snow day, so a total of 2.5 days must be made up beyond the built-in snow day.
The following modifications will be made to the 2018-19 calendar:
1.    Wednesday, May 1: change from an early release to a full day for students
2.    Wednesday, May 8: change from an early release to a full day for students
3.    Friday, May 24: change from a non-school day to a school day for students
4.    Tuesday, May 28: change from a non-school day to a school day for students
5.    Wednesday, June 19: change from a half day to a full day for students
6.    Thursday, June 20: added as a half day for students (last day of school)
 
These changes were made in consideration of students, families and staff. It should be noted that high school graduation dates and times will not be affected by these changes. Families with preschool students will receive communication from their program about any changes. We appreciate your flexibility as we fulfill the state required hours.
 

Dear Redmond El Families,
 
This is a short reminder that this Friday, March 8, there is NO SCHOOL for students while teachers engage in professional development. This Friday, we will be learning together and from one another about Equity, SIOP (an instructional protocol to support English Language Learners across settings), Next Generation Science Standards and progress updates on our new Science Curriculum Adoption process.
 
Have a wonderful week!
 
Kirsten
 

The last few weeks certainly were exciting! Thank you to all of you who helped us with your patience, your understanding when weather impacted school, and your kindness and flexibility. You are a wonderful community and we love working with your children every day.
 
Earlier today you should have received an email from our district regarding our recent unprecedented weather conditions; if you did not; I will include it at the bottom of this email. We do not yet know what the plan will be to make up for the missed instructional hours during our snow events but will inform you as soon as we are able.
 
We are all looking forward to getting back to normal, and we know you (and your kids) are too. Finally, as a reminder, please ensure you have several local contacts listed as emergency contacts for your child.
 
Welcome back. We missed you.
 
Kirsten
 

Dear Redmond El Families,
 
By now, hopefully you have received word that there is no school because of inclement weather on Monday. We will know by tomorrow at 7:00 what the plan is for Tuesday.
 
BIG THANKS to everyone who came early to pick up students on Friday and who were so patient as we sorted through the many requests. You were understanding and we so appreciate you.
•    We had several parents who came to school once the snow started on Friday to pick up their children and in some cases, either grandchildren or children of a friend. As a reminder: we can ONLY release students to people who are listed as emergency contacts. We made several calls to family members to ensure safe release plans. PLEASE UPDATE YOUR EMERGENCY CONTACTS so in an emergency, you know that you have someone local as a back-up plan.
•    ALWAYS BRING PHOTO IDENTIFICATION when you come to school to pick up a student. Especially in an emergency, when we have all hands on deck, there can be no expectation that you will be greeted by someone who knows you. Your child’s safety is always our first priority.
•    To all parents of 5th graders: Outdoor Education is POSTPONED until March. We would have loved to have gone but the roads were not safe, and as the schools in Tacoma and Gig Harbor are already closed for tomorrow. Stay tuned for more information!
Thanks to our PTSA, we welcomed the TAIKO Japanese Drums group on Friday and were treated to assemblies in which several students were able to join them in playing the giant drums, It was an amazing experience and we are grateful to our PTSA for bringing these experiences to our students!
 
That’s it for tonight – stay warm, stay safe, and we will see you soon. As a reminder, there is NO SCHOOL on Thursday, 02/14, Friday, 02/15, and Monday, 02/18 for Midwinter break.
 
Thank you!
 
Kirsten
 

Dear Redmond El Families,
I hope that whether you are watching football or not today, that your family is having fun and keeping warm! Please see information below about two important topics, measles and weather.
Measles Information
As you may be aware, on January 25, Governor Inslee declared a public health state of emergency after reports of 31 confirmed cases of measles were identified in the state. Most of the confirmed cases are in Clark County and there is one confirmed case in King County. We currently do not have any cases of measles in Lake Washington School District. 
 
This unusual occurrence of measles may generate some concern or questions. To help keep you informed, district processes and state law for vaccinations is outlined below:
•    In order to attend school, Washington State Law requires kindergarten students to receive 5 required immunizations: 
o    Hepatitis B
o    DTap/Tdap (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis
o    Polio
o    MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
o    Varicella (Chickenpox)
 
•    Lake Washington School District works with the Washington State Department of Health to comply with state laws on required vaccinations. In order for students to attend school, all parents are required to complete and return a certificate of immunization OR a certificate of exemption. This is filed within each student’s school record. If either certificate has not been completed and on file, students may not attend school. 
o    Details about Certificates of Immunization:
This form requires the healthcare provider to verify the completion of the 5 required vaccines. The parent is required to sign this form and return it to school.
o    Details about Certificates of Exemption:
A parent or guardian may exempt their child from some or all vaccination listed above. Exemption types include “religious,” “personal/philosophical,” and “medical.” Exemption Certificates are required to be signed by the health care provider and the parent and the form must be returned to school. A person who has been exempted from a vaccination is considered at risk for the disease or diseases for which the vaccination offers protection. Exempted children/students may be excluded from school or child care settings and activities during an outbreak of the disease that they have not been fully vaccinated against. Find district information regarding vaccinations here: https://www.lwsd.org/programs-and-services/health-services/immunizations
 
•    Following state law and Lake Washington School District processes, vaccination reports are documented weekly by the health room secretary and the school nurse. Students must get vaccination doses at correct timeframes to be in compliance with requirements. Students who do not comply and who do not have required documentation are withheld from school attendance. 
We currently do not have any cases of measles in Lake Washington School District. We are urging families to monitor their children for signs of measles. If you believe your child may have measles, please call their health care provider — do not go in. If you must take your child to the Emergency Room, please call ahead to let them know you are coming and that you suspect measles. If your child has not been fully immunized with the MMR vaccine, please talk with your health care provider about getting the immunization. You can also contact your school nurse for more information and resources.
Measles is extremely contagious, and can be serious, especially for young children. If your child has measles, please keep them home.
•    Measles virus travels through the air. You can get measles if you go near someone who has the virus because the virus stays for up to two hours in the air of a room where a person with measles has been.
•    You can catch measles from an infected person as early as four days before they have a rash and for up to four days after the rash appears.
•    Almost everyone who has not had the vaccine will get measles if they are exposed to the measles virus.
•    Foreign travel or exposure to foreign travelers increases the risk for measles.
•    Measles is the deadliest of all childhood rash/fever illnesses.
The best protection against measles is to get vaccinated. Make sure to protect yourself and your children with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
 
Measles Symptoms
Measles starts with:
•    fever
•    diarrhea
•    coughing
•    runny nose
•    red and watery eyes
•    tiredness
After a few days, a rash begins, which usually starts on the face and can spread over the entire body. Measles usually lasts 7 to 10 days.
 
In some people, especially people who are have chronic medical problems, are pregnant, or are malnourished, measles also leads to serious problems such as pneumonia, brain damage, blindness, deafness, and death.
 
Please call your medical provider or building nurse if you have questions regarding measles.
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Weather Watch for February 4, 2019
We are aware snow is forecast in some areas of Lake Washington School District (LWSD) overnight and into Monday, February 4. We will post on the LWSD website (www.lwsd.org) by approximately 5:30 a.m. on Monday morning if there are any changes to school schedules due to weather. If conditions worsen after 5:30 a.m., we may be required to update our notification at a later time.
As a reminder, our district covers 76 square miles, so conditions can vary widely across the district. Our decision regarding delays and closures is based upon our ability to safely run our buses and the conditions at the schools buildings. Please assume that school is running on time if you do not receive an alert from us or from local news stations. We also post school closure announcements on our district webpage (www.lwsd.org) on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/LakeWashingtonSchools) and on Twitter (@LakeWashSchools). You can also sign up to receive alerts on FlashAlert.net.
See you soon – stay warm!
Kirsten
 

Dear Redmond Elementary Families,
 
Tomorrow, your student(s) will be bringing home their first semester report card! They will be excited to share their progress with you, so please go through it with them and ask questions, celebrating successes where you see them. If Standards Based grades are new to you, think of them this way – a “3” is the Grade Level Standard for the end of the school year. If your student is showing scores of 3, then they are hitting targets we want them to be able to accomplish by the end of the year. If you are seeing 2s or 2.5s, then they are approaching standard – a good conversation to have with your child’s teachers is whether there are things that would be helpful for you to practice with your child at home to stay on track. If your child is scoring a 1 or 1.5 in any areas, conferences will be a time that you can discuss any concerns and determine how we can all work together to help your child increase his or her achievement. Any scores over a 3 indicate that your child is demonstrating skills above the grade that they are in. Please bring your child and their report card with you to your conference this week. If you have not yet scheduled a conference, it’s not too late! You can contact your child’s teacher today.
 
Schedule This Week:
Monday: Regular 3:50 release
Tuesday: HALF DAY Students release at 12:20
Wednesday: Regular 2:20 release
Thursday: HALF DAY Students release at 12:20
Friday: HALF DAY Students release at 12:20
 
THANK YOU to all who have contributed to the coin drive and GoFundMe for Yahir! He was released from the hospital on Friday and we are expecting him to start back at school on February 4!
 
Have  WONDERFUL Week!
Kirsten
 

Dear Redmond Elementary Families,
 
This week is a busy one! On Thursday night, you are invited to join us as our PTSA hosts Family Art and Music Night – all entries from this year’s Reflections Arts contest will be shared, and students will have a chance to try out many instruments brought by the team at “Bach to Rock”. We will also announce the winner of this year’s yearbook cover art contest on Thursday!
 
On Friday, all grade levels will join together to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. We will sing and recognize his important civil rights work in assemblies Friday morning. There will be NO SCHOOL on Monday, January 21 to honor MLK’s Birthday. 
 
For parents of 5th grade students: please see below for news from Redmond Middle School’s principal, Jon Young.
 
If you have a student in 4/5 Quest who will be going to Kamiakin Middle School next year, their welcome event is this Tuesday, January 15, information that should have already reached you directly from Principal Joe Joss.
 
Have a wonderful week!
Kirsten Gometz
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Dear Parents,
 
On Tuesday, January 29th Redmond Middle School will be hosting a parent night for all current 5th graders who will be attending RMS next year.  This event starts at RMS at 6:30pm.  This will be a great chance to see and tour Redmond Middle, meet the administration and counseling staff, and have any questions answered for you.   This evening is geared toward parents only.  RMS counselors will be visiting the 5th grade classrooms in early February to register students for their middle school classes. 
 
Our 5th grade students will be visiting Redmond Middle this spring for an orientation activity.  The student leadership at RMS has put together a wonderful formal program that includes student lead tours, Q & A with a student panel, and fun games and trivia.  They too will be able to meet the admin, counselors, and some of the 6th grade teachers.  This event is scheduled for June 13, 2019.  More information will come later for this event.
 
Jon Young
Principal
Redmond Middle School

Welcome back, everyone!
 
I hope everyone was able to enjoy time together, and to ring in the new year in whatever tradition your family celebrates. We are excited to welcome you all back tomorrow!
 
If anyone received new jackets, gloves, etc. over break, today is a good day to put your child’s name in them with a permanent marker – we donated over 60 jackets and sweaters over break, and realize that keeping kids dressed is challenging and costly. If there is a name in a coat, we can always get it back to its owner!
 
This week: for parents of 5th graders in Mrs. Huntley, Mr. Aguirre, Mrs, Galligan, Mrs. Emitu, and Mrs. Herrick’s classes – there is an Informational Parent Meeting about Outdoor Education at 6:30 on Thursday night in the D wing. This will be very helpful in answering any questions and concerns you might have, as well as helping you and your child prepare for the amazing experience that Outdoor Ed will be! Thank you to our parents who have already volunteered as cabin leaders!
 
Our Yearbook Cover Art contest deadline is this Wednesday, January 9 – entries are being collected in the office. 
 
Happy New Year to all!
 
Kirsten Gometz
 

Dear Redmond Elementary Families,
 
Thank you to all who participated in our Parents’ Night Out on Friday – the wind storm and power outage added extra fun, but we loved the time with your kids and raised around $600 to support Outdoor Ed!
 
As we get ready for Winter Break, here are a few important reminders:
•    ALWAYS bring Photo ID when coming to school to visit or to get your child. We will always ask for it, so please do not be upset. Your students’ safety is always our top priority.
•    If you are planning to miss ANY days of school this year, please ensure that you submit a Preplanned absence form (available in the office) in advance. Absences that do not receive preapproval are marked as unexcused. Additionally, please be aware that if you are requesting an excessive number of days out of school, trips may not be approved because of the impact on your child’s education.
•    We will be donating any unclaimed Lost and Found items during break. We have 50-60 jackets and hoodies and do not have the space to keep them. Please encourage your child to check for missing items, and feel free to come check yourself if there is something you have not seen lately.
Finally, THANK YOU to all who donated to make the season warmer and happier for families who may be food insecure or struggling this year. This community cares for one another in ways that inspire all of us, every day.
 
There is NO SCHOOL for Winter Break will be from December 24-January 4. The first day back for everyone is Monday, January 7.
 
Enjoy your time together, We will miss you, and look forward to growing together in 2019!
 
Kirsten
 

Thank you to our Amazing PTSA for putting together such an amazing “Wizard’s Ball” themed family dance on Friday night! Everything looked wonderful and I am so glad so many of you were able to join us.
 
We have two more community opportunities this week: First, this is our final week collecting toys, gloves, socks, and donations to help families in need. We have an envelope in the office for gift cards to Target, Fred Meyer or any local grocery stores – ALL items and donations collected will go directly to a Redmond El family in need. Thank you SO much to those who have already brought in items!
 
Second: This Friday December 14 is our Outdoor Education Fundraiser – Parents’ Night Out! Presale tickets are available through tomorrow, for 45 per child or $10 per multi-kid families. Limited tickets will be available at the door. We will feed the kids (Pizza, water, and popcorn) and will run movies and craft activities – Redmond teachers and staff are volunteering their evening to entertain your kids and help us raise funds to put towards 5th grade Outdoor Education – ALL money raised will go towards ensuring an amazing outdoor education experience for our 5th graders! IF you are participating – we will sign kids in from 5:30-6, and signing out at 8:00 pm. PLEASE make sure you have photo ID with you at drop-off AND pick-up. We are so excited! If you have questions please email me or Mrs. Herrick at kherrick@lwsd,org
 
To all of our families celebrating Hanukkah – we hope it;s been a wonderful celebration! Happy Hanukkah!
 
Thank you all! Have a wonderful week,
 
Kirsten
 
 

Dear Redmond Elementary Families,
Once again, we are running a Giving campaign to help our families who might need a little help this year.
From December 3 to December 14, we will be collecting donations of toys and gift cards. Gift cards for groceries, or to Target or Fred Meyer are very helpful so that families can help care for their children this winter. Also, movie passes are a great way for families to spend some time together over break.
We welcome any new, unwrapped toys or gifts for boys or girls aged 5-12, and warm mittens and socks.
We know that sometimes we can give a little extra, and sometimes we may need help. Wherever you land this year, we are glad you are part of our community.
If YOUR family would like help this year, we would be honored to do so. Please send a note to me or email me at kgometz@lwsd.org, and include the names and ages of the children in your family as well as any wishes they might have.
Thank you!
Kirsten
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Estimadas familias de Redmond Elementary,
Una vez más, estamos participando en una campaña de donaciones para ayudar a nuestras familias quienes necesitan un poco de ayuda este año.
Del 3 al 14 de diciembre, estaremos recolectando donaciones de juguetes y tarjetas de regalo. Las tarjetas de regalo pueden ser para comestibles, o para Target o Fred Meyer. Estas son muy útiles para que las familias puedan comprar cosas importantes por sus hijos este invierno. Además, los pases de películas son una excelente manera para que las familias pasen un tiempo juntas durante las vacaciones.
Damos la bienvenida a cualquier juguete o regalo nuevo y en la caja original para niños o niñas de 5 a 12 años de edad, y guantes y calcetines nuevos.
Sabemos que a veces podemos dar un poco más, y otras veces necesitamos ayuda. Donde sea este año, nos alegra que forme parte de nuestra comunidad.
Si SU familia quisiera ayuda este año, nos sentiríamos honrados de hacerlo. Envíeme una nota o envíeme un correo electrónico a kgometz@lwsd.org, e incluya los nombres y edades de los niños de su familia, así como los deseos que tienen.
¡Gracias!
Kirsten
 

Dear Redmond Elementary Families,
 
Welcome back! We hope you had a wonderful long weekend, and that you are able to spend time enjoying your family.
 
This Tuesday, Our new superintendent Dr. Stavem will be visiting Redmond Elementary to learn about our school and our community. We are excited to welcome her, and will be wearing our Redmond Elementary colors and Spirit wear as we show her who we are. If your child has any Redmond EL spirit wear or any red or black clothing, we encourage them to wear it on Tuesday.
 
This week, we end our food drive – collecting non-perishable items both to donate to Open Kitchen but also to help with pantry packs. Thank you to all who have helped! Friday is our last day for food collection.
 
A Reminder to All: Any time there is any change to your child’s after school pick-up or ride plan, please email the teacher AND the office staff (rmayeda@lwsd.org; cgrammer@lwsd.org). If a child will need to ride a bus that does not usually do so, or will be riding a different bus, we need a note to the office ON THAT DAY so that we can write a bus pass. All drivers should be checking students for bus passes if they are not a usual rider, and are not expected to allow a student on the bus unless they have a bus pass in hand. 
 
Finally, please ensure that your students are picked up from school by 4:00 every day.
 
Thank you so much for your cooperation and support.
 
Kirsten
 

Dear Redmond Elementary Families,
 
We have a short week this week, and time to be grateful for all that is good in our lives. We, at Redmond El, are grateful for you and your children, and that we get to spend our days in growing kids. Redmond Elementary has a strong community, where we take care of one another. Happy Thanksgiving to you!
 
THIS WEEK:
Tuesday, 11/20: Picture retakes
Wednesday, 11/21: EARLY RELEASE 12:20
Thursday, 11/22: NO SCHOOL THANKSGIVING 
Friday, 11/23: NO SCHOOL
 
This year, we will again be coordinating a GIVING campaign. We will be collecting gift cards, gifts of warm clothing, toys and books, and groceries or grocery gift cards for our families.
 
We will run this campaign from December 3-December 14, and will deliver or arrange pickups for families during the week of December 17-21.
 
We all have moments when we are able to help, and moments when we need the help of others. If your family could use assistance this year, please email me at kgometz@lwsd.org or send a note to the office with my name. However your family will spend this winter break, we want it to be a happy occasion, and we’d love to help!
 
Have a wonderful (short!) week.
 
Kirsten