This Week @ Angell Elementary

December 5, 2022

CALLING ALL ALUMNI!!  (OUTREACH FOR CENTENNIAL)

Our staff are planning events and curriculum-relevant activities to honor our centennial milestone.   One of our goals is to create a timeline of sorts with memories, artifacts, and information from alumni.  If you’re an Angell alumnus, we invite you to fill out this survey.  If you have contact with other alumni, please share the link.  Thank you!!

SAFETY & DRIVING REMINDERS

We appreciate your efforts to get your children to school on time.  Please remember to drive safely and slowly in the parking lot. 

SNACK DONATIONS

If you’re able to donate a bag of apples or clementines or packets of applesauce to the office, we’ll get them to kids in need.  Thank you!   (Note: We do have a “share basket” in the cafeteria where kids who get school lunch can donate fresh fruit that they do not want to eat.  Frankly, there’s not much to repurpose but we do try.)

ANGELL & AADL LIBRARY EVENT!!

Our Literacy Coach, Mrs. Poliquin, and our EL teacher, Mrs. Rudberg planned an event at the Traverwood branch of the Ann Arbor District Library on Saturday, December 17th.  The goal is to showcase this library branch, enjoy storytime together, and help folks get library cards if needed.  Please read the Flyer for details.  

GIVING TREE

If you would like to purchase a gift of winter weather clothing or a small toy for someone in our Angell community, there’s a Giving Tree located outside the main office.  Parents (or students if directed by parents) are welcome to stop by anytime to pick an apple (i.e. an item to shop for) from the Giving Tree.  Donations should be dropped off, and unwrapped, by Friday, December 16th.  

SPIRIT WEEK

Monday, 12/19 - PJ day (Monday wake-ups can be hard, come dressed in your pajamas!)

Tuesday, 12/20 - Sweater weather day (Ugly or normal, all sweaters are welcome!)

Wednesday, 12/21 - Wacky hat or hair day

Thursday, 12/22 - Fancy schmancy day (Staff & students are invited to dress up in fancy clothes and/or accessories.  This attire might be their “Sunday best” or whatever fancy means to your child.) 

• Of course, all spirit days are voluntary and intended to be light-hearted and fun.  Creating opportunities for joy and connectedness helps kids feel excited to come to school. If ever you have a question, suggestion, or wonder - please reach out.  I appreciate your perspective and ideas! 

USED BOOK SALE

As you know from prior communications, there will be an Angell used book sale on Friday, December 16th. .  The goal is to help families clear their house of books while raising money to purchase new books for our school library, and encouraging reading!  We are accepting books for children of all ages - board books through young adult, even including cookbooks!  We have drop boxes located at the library, at the school entrances, and outside the office door.  The deadline for dropping off used books is Monday, December 12.

Students will have about 15 minutes to shop at the book sale on Friday, 12/16.  Students will shop with their classroom teacher during the school day.  Most books will cost $1.  If you’d like your child to have spending money, $1 and $5 bills are fantastic!  Locating quarters might also be a great way to clear a junk drawer or piggy bank.  On our end, we’ll teach the value of quarters to all kids by 12/16.  Most kids bring between $1 - $7.  If possible, please send your child to school with money in an envelope or bag, labeled with their name and the dollar amount you’ve provided which they may spend. 

ON THE HORIZON

12/15 - PTO meeting, 9AM, Common Cup or Zoom

12/16 - Used Book Sale

12/18 - Hanukkah starts in the evening

12/19 - 12/22 - Spirit Week (see details above)

12/22 - Classroom winter celebrations & last day of school in 2022!!

12/23 - 1/8 - No school, winter break

12/26 - Kwanzaa starts

1/9 - School resumes

November 20, 2022

Dear Angell Families,

Heading into the Thanksgiving break we want to invite our community to collectively take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate the innumerable things for which we have to be thankful.  For many,  families and friends are high on the list of things for which are we grateful.  I am also grateful for this wonderful school community that we share. 

Research supports that engaging in kindness and gratitude practices can have a remarkably positive impact.  Gratitude activities can enhance positive emotions by both the person receiving and expressing the words of appreciation.  We foster kindness at the start of each student’s day with a kind welcome into the classroom.  Simple things, like making eye contact, smiling, and acknowledging one another by name can make a positive difference.  The morning meeting that kicks off every school day is also a time that teachers and students share gratitude and words of appreciation.  

 Last week, students wrote things for which they are grateful on a paper water droplet.  This week we’ll hang the droplets together making an ocean of gratitude!  Ms. Ryan and I will also lead an assembly on Tuesday to celebrate the season of giving thanks.   

I hope you enjoy the Thanksgiving Break and relish time spent with family and friends.
 

COLD GEAR DONATIONS

Thank you to the families who’ve already dropped off gently used winter gear.  Given the early start to winter weather, we’ve already given out warm coats to students at Angell. Families have been very appreciative! If you have snow pants, boots, or gloves that your kids have outgrown, we’ll happily use them at recess time.  Every day we encounter kids who have simply forgotten a necessary item for recess so the office keeps a stash of extra items.  Gloves are always appreciated. 

OUTDOOR RECESS

As a reminder, in AAPS, we go outside for recess when the real free temperature is above zero degrees.  Please be sure your child has snow pants, boots, gloves, and layers.  It’s a good idea to have extra socks and pants in case they get wet. 

RECYCLE/DONATE BOOK

Do you have gently used children's books in your home that your children have outgrown or don't read anymore?  Please donate them to Angell's used book sale!  The proceeds from the used book sale, scheduled for December 16th, will go towards purchasing new books for the Angell library.  Families can send book donations to school with their child.  Larger sized donations can be dropped off at the school.  

REPORT CARDS

This Tuesday all families can expect to receive report card marks and Fall NWEA scores via email. 

ANGELL ATTENDANCE EMAIL

If your student is going to be absent, please email us at:  ang_attendance@a2schools.org.  Be sure to include the following information:  student name, teacher, date of absence(s) and reason for absence. 

PICTURE RETAKES

If your family wants to retake their child’s school picture, simply bring the unwanted photos to school on Tuesday, November 29th and be sure your child knows to obtain a retake.  We’ll escort kids to the auditorium for retakes in the morning.  If your child is taking their photo for the first time, they will leave with ordering information. 

ON THE HORIZON

11/22 - Trimester 1 report cards will be emailed home

11/23 - 11/25 - No school, Thanksgiving Break

11/29 - Photo Retakes (AM)

11/30 - Early release day, dismissal at 1:18PM (Staff attend professional development in the afternoon)

November 13, 2022

Dear Angell Families,

Last week we passed day 50 of school, so as we reach the end of trimester 1, report cards will be emailed home next Tuesday.  Our report cards reflect a standards-based approach. The purpose of a standards-based report card is to provide feedback regarding the progress children are making toward specific content indicators at each grade level. Ideally, our report card allows families to understand more clearly what is expected at each grade level. With this understanding, caregivers can be our partners in helping guide and support their children to reach their fullest potential.  While these articles are written with teachers as the audience, I recommend that parents scan these two articles:  What Teachers Need to Tell Parents About Report Cards and 10 Growth Mindset Strategies to Help Your Students Grow as Learners.  It’s important that we work collectively to cultivate a growth mindset in students - helping them focus on doing their personal best and setting growth goals. 

RESOURCES & WINTER GIVING

AAPS recently added some resources to the Winter Resources Page that may be of interest to some families.  While some Angell families have been contacted directly, if you or your child(ren) need assistance getting winter clothing or gifts this season, the Angell School community would like to help.  Families who need winter support should complete this form by Wednesday, November 16th.  Families who would like to help shop and fulfill these needs will have an opportunity to shop once our Winter Giving Tree is set up.  More to come in late November. 

USED BOOK SALE

On the horizon, December 16th to be precise, our librarians and PTO will host a used book sale at Angell.  The goal is to raise money to purchase books, while helping families clear their house of books that can be purchased for a low price.  It’s a great way for kids to purchase gifts for family members!  More information will be shared next week. In the meantime, we invite you to set aside books your kids have outgrown. 

THANK YOU 

We have a couple of parents who continue to fuel the staff by dropping off coffee and chocolate, and this is much appreciated.  We are grateful for your thoughtfulness and generosity!

LEFTOVER CANDY

If you have Halloween candy you’d like out of your home, feel free to drop it off at Angell.  We’ll share it with staff and occasionally with kids.  (We have a cadre of volunteers who like to help rake, water plants, pick up trash, etc. during their lunch, and we occasionally couple our thanks with candy.)

PICTURE RETAKES

If your family wants a retake their child’s school picture, simply bring the unwanted photos to school on Tuesday, November 29th and be sure your child knows to obtain a retake.  We’ll escort kids to the auditorium for retakes. 

ON THE HORIZON

11/17 - PTO meeting, 9:00AM - ALL are welcome!

11/22 - Trimester 1 report cards will be emailed home

11/23 - 11/25 - No school, Thanksgiving Break

11/30 - Early release day, dismissal at 1:18PM (Staff attend professional development)

NOVEMBER 8, 2022

Angell Elementary is a polling location and our building is closed for students tomorrow -  Tuesday, November 8.  

ACCESSORIES, PHONES, VALUABLES

I invite families to limit the number of unnecessary items brought to school.  As lockers fill with winter gear, there’s less space for items like stuffies. I recommend simply bringing items that students will need. If you and your child feel that they need their accessories please label them with the students name. 

DURHAM TRANSPORTATION - CONTACT INFO

Feel free to phone (734) 994-2330 or click here to reach Durham School Services for contact information including phone numbers and links to email addresses, a list of who to call, a question and concern form that can be emailed, and more about the company.  The new bus tracker will be available in January 2023.  

ON THE HORIZON

11/8 - No school for students (Election day) 

11/21 - Trimester 1 report cards will be emailed home

11/23-11/25 - No school, Thanksgiving Break

11/30 - Early release day, dismissal at 1:18PM

OCTOBER 30, 2022

Hats off to parent Brooke Tomlins for organizing a very festive and very fun Halloween Dance this past Friday.   There was an impressive amount of planning and coordination that went into this family night.   The Halloween festivities continue tomorrow with classroom parties and a whole-school parade starting at 2:30PM.  Most of the parading will take place indoors so that kids get a chance to see one another, but we invite parents to observe the parade outside.  The parade loop has all classes exiting the front doors of Angell and walking around to the K-1/lower playground doors.  Rest assured, pictures will be shared.  We ask that parents do not ask to take their child home early as the school office is sure to be quite busy tomorrow.  Most students will change into their costumes after lunch.  In any event, please be sure all costumes parts are labeled.  Weapons and gore must stay at home. If you would prefer your child not participate in Halloween-related activities, please contact me directly and we will have an alternate activity for them. 

LUNCH PAYMENT OPTIONS: - Payments for breakfast, lunch and/or milk can be made online.  We also accept cash and check. Please make checks out to: AAPS Food Service. Please include your student’s name and name of the school on the memo line or front of the envelope.  Cash is accepted, just be sure to place the cash in an envelope with the school and student name on the front.

ON THE HORIZON

10/31 - Halloween parade 2:30

11/4 - School Spirit Day!  (Wear Angell gear or blue & white)

11/8 - No school for students (Election day) 

11/21 - Trimester 1 report cards are sent home

11/23-11/25 - No school, Thanksgiving Break

October 24, 2022

Good afternoon Angell families, 

Many thanks to the PTO and our parent volunteers for hosting the Movie Night.  It was so great to see families enjoying a fun Friday night together. 

MINDFULNESS & INNER EXPLORER

In an effort to support students' wellness and provide tools for emotion management, we are piloting a mindfulness program called Inner Explorer.  Mindfulness means learning to focus on the present moment, without judgment, rather than focusing on distractions, ruminations, worries or simply being on autopilot.  A growing body of research has shown that a mindfulness practice can help reduce stress, bolster impulse control, and increase kids’ (and adults’) happiness and emotional well-being.  Mindfulness also strengthens our community by promoting empathy and reducing reactivity.   If you want to cultivate mindfulness in your family, I encourage you to read this short article  How to Foster Mindfulness at Home.  Personally, I’ve been trained in the Mindful School curriculum and have seen how impactful a mindfulness practice can be for students and adults alike.  I encourage you to join our pilot of Inner Explorer by using the app at home. Classroom teachers will be sharing a teacher-specific link to join Inner Explorer.  

LABEL WINTER GEAR

Given the already full state of our lost and found bins, I want to remind parents to label coats, sweatshirts, mittens, hats, etc.  

HALLOWEEN REMINDER

Given the many moving parts on 10/31, I kindly ask you do not pick up your child early from school that day unless it’s absolutely essential.  It’s sure to be a very busy day in our office. 

ISO: CLOTHING RACK & A SIT 'N SPIN

To better organize our Lost & Found, I’ll happily repurpose a clothing rack if anyone has one to donate.  A rack such as this would be ideal but any clothing rack can likely be used.  I am also seeking a Sit ‘n Spin for K-1 motor integration activities.  If pick-up is needed, just let me know.  

 

ON THE HORIZON

10/24 - Diwali 

10/28 - College Spirit Day! (Go Blue!)

10/28 - Halloween dance, 6-8 PM

10/31 - Halloween parade 2:30ish

11/8 - No school for students (Election day) 

11/21 - Trimester 1 report cards are sent home

11/23-11/25 - No school, Thanksgiving Break

October 17, 2022

Good afternoon Angell Families,

Wow, last week was action-packed!  We took incredible photos in celebration of our centennial school year, we organized guest speakers from DTE and LNSC, and we hosted an incredible Walk-A-Thon.  Many thanks to the PTO and our family volunteers who orchestrated this Angell tradition.  (I’ll let the PTO share an update about fundraising tomorrow.)  Regardless of our goal, I really enjoyed seeing kids genuinely invested in raising money for a therapy dog.  Because most therapy dogs can serve close to ten years, this year’s efforts will positively impact students for many years to come!  Last week staff also engaged in professional development about mindfulness.  Soon, I’ll share a mindfulness resource that families can utilize at home.  

This week is also filled with special events - we have field trips, picture day, parent-teacher conferences, a schoolwide planting event, an early release day, and a movie night.  

At this week’s PTO meeting I am happy to answer questions on the minds of parents but please know that parents can book an appointment with me at https://megfenech.youcanbook.me/   Reach out by email or book a time to meet.  I’m here to support your family!

SCHOOL PICTURES

TOMORROW is picture day!  You can select the picture package of your choice at www.schoolpictures.com, by entering the online code “AA0407Fall22”.   If your child is absent tomorrow, we have a picture makeup day in early November.  We do want everyone’s photo taken for the yearbook. 

IN-PERSON CONFERENCES

If you are coming to the building this Wednesday for in-person parent-teacher conferences, please use the door closest to the parking lot and basketball court. 

WINTER GIVING NEEDS

If your family has encountered financial challenges this fall/winter, please reach out to me at fenechm@a2schools.org or to our office secretary at durhaml@a2schools.org.   We are in the process of collecting needs so we can in turn work on providing families with the winter gear your children might need. 

REPORTING STUDENT ABSENCES

As cold and flu season is now upon us, we have an increase in student absences.  If your student is going to be absent, please email us at ang_attendance@a2schools.org.  Be sure to include the following information:  student name, teacher, date of absence(s), and reason for absence. 

HALLOWEEN

Given the many moving parts on 10/31, I kindly ask that do not pick up your child early from school that day unless it’s absolutely essential.  
 

EARLY RELEASE THIS THURSDAY

Our next early release day is this Thursday, October 20th.  School will dismiss at 1:18PM so staff can attend professional development pertaining to equity and access.  School buses will run in the AM and PM. 

LATE ARRIVALS

Just a reminder, if your child is late to school and the school doors are locked, then parents are responsible to park and walk their children into the building.   When you are buzzed into the school, please come to the office to sign them in and get a tardy pass.  Sometimes it is so busy in the office that Ms. Durham cannot get to the buzzer immediately, so we thank you for your patience. 

CENTENNIAL TULIPS

As one of the many things we’re doing to celebrate our centennial birthday, we are planting 100 tulip bulbs this week.  Each child at Angell will get their hands dirty planting tulip bulbs that should emerge in mid-late April.  

REMINDERS CUB SCOUTS

Interested in scouts?  Here’s the cub scout flyer for an event being held on Oct. 22nd.  It is geared toward all AAPS K-5th grade students.

STILL SEEKING LUNCH VOLUNTEERS OR SUPERVISORS 

We are still in need of RECESS helpers.  We would love adults who can volunteer on a regular basis (e.g. every Friday).   K-2 lunch runs from 11:50AM-12:38PM.  Grade 3-5 lunch runs from 12:30-1:18PM.  Volunteers can simply supervise recess, OR even better - help facilitate games like whiffle ball, throwing a football around,  jump roping, etc.  Currently, we have a parent running a Pokeman Club every Monday during the K-2 lunch.  I am open to other creative ideas - a knitting club, Zumba, help with the walking club, etc!  

Additionally, we hope to hire folks who can work 3-5 days a week from 11:30AM - 1:30PM as paid lunch supervisors.   Please email fenechm@a2schools.or if you are interested in volunteering, or coming on staff as a paid supervisor.  

ON THE HORIZON

10/20 - Early release day (student dismissal @ 1:18PM)

10/20 - PTO meeting, 10AM 

10/21 - Movie Night! (flyer) 

10/28 - Halloween dance, 6-8 PM

10/31 - Halloween parade 2:30PM-ish

11/8 - No school for students

11/21 - Trimester 1 report cards are sent home

October 2, 2022

Last week was another wonderful week of learning and engagement at Angell.  We hosted LNSC assemblies, there were field trips to the Arb, we had a super-efficient fire drill, and kids enjoyed walking club in their pajamas!   Our staff has begun to work in earnest around school improvement plans pertaining to equity & inclusion, literacy, and social-emotional learning.  As a staff, we are on a continuous journey of learning and reflection.  While unrelated to teaching and learning, one thing we consistently reflect upon is the safety of students, and we are experiencing greater congestion in the parking lot as the weather cools. We need your help with a few items to insure the safety of all of our students and families. 

Drop Off Updates: 

Students can be dropped off alongside the curb in the parking lot between 8:30 - 8:48. Please pull ahead as far as possible in the drop-off line. Adults will be available to greet students and help your student exit the vehicle. For the safety of the child, please have them exit the vehicle nearest the curb. If needed, adults will assist Y5 and kindergarten students to walk around the front of the building to the area where students line up to enter the building.

If you need to park in the lot, please note that we will be blocking off the small section of the parking lot at the rear of the building.  We’ve found this area is a safety risk when parents are backing up and kids/families are on foot.  We will soon block off this rear section of the parking lot during arrival to ensure safety for kids on foot. 

Pick Up Reminders: 

Grade 3-5 students can be picked up alongside South University Ave. Please do not block the area reserved for the school buses. Thank you for following the signs that are posted. 

K-Grade 2 students should be picked up alongside the curb in the parking lot. Students should stand near the fence and wait to be called to enter their vehicle. Please pull ahead as far as possible in the line and remain in your vehicle. Fifth-grade safeties, Mrs. Genoa or Mrs. Ryan will help students into their cars.  If your child needs assistance with his / her seat belt, please pull into a parking spot or as far ahead as possible in the line. Cars that have students loaded must wait until there’s room to pull out. NEVER reverse while in the pick-up line.

Thank you for helping to keep our Angell students safe! 

RECESS & WEATHER REMINDERS

Fresh air and free play are priceless, so throughout AAPS, we go outside for recess unless the real feel temperature/wind chill is below zero.  We also go outside if there’s light rain or drizzle.  Please ensure your children are ready for all weather conditions.  If your family needs help acquiring winter or rain gear, please reach out. 

PEANUT/TREE NUTS 

While several classrooms are nut-restricted for snacks, students are permitted to bring items with peanuts or tree nuts in their lunches.  We have one designed peanut/tree nut-free table in the cafeteria to accommodate students with allergies.  Note: our cafeteria “hot lunches” are always nut-free so kids who purchase lunch can sit at the nut-free table at any time. 

WALK-A-THON FUNDRAISER

Our biannual Run-a-Thon is right around the corner on Wednesday, October 12th   The event takes place during the school day and is a great community event! Click for Pledge forms and information about the Walk-A-Thon.  Please see the FAQs here if you have any wonders about our plan for a therapy dog.  Thus far, feedback has been incredibly postitive and kids are very excited. 
 

BACKGROUND CHECK/ICHAT FORM FOR VOLUNTEERING

If you know you have the bandwidth to volunteer at some point this school year, you can hand in this volunteer background check/iChat form to the office at any time. 

COMMUNITY EVENTS/RESOURCES

From time to time, I’ll share local events that encourage inclusivity and/or offer children opportunities for extended learning.  

• Family Book Party with Black Me Read, October 7th - see www.shopbooksweet.com/events/ 

• JFS’  Walk a Mile event, October 9th - Flyer 

• Kelsey Museum, free event, October 16th - Flyer 

ON THE HORIZON

10/5 - ***Yom Kippur & SPIRIT WEAR order deadline 

10/12 - Fall Walk-A-Thon!  Information & Schedule

10/18 - School Picture Day

10/19 - Schoolwide P-T conference night (Other date options should have been communicated by teachers) 

10/20 - Early release day (Dismissal @ 1:18 PM)

10/28 - Halloween dance (PTO-sponsored evening event)

10/31 - Halloween parade 2:30 PM

September 25, 2022

Dear Angell Families,

Last Thursday’s school picnic was a delight!  I relish the opportunity to meet families and see families interact with one another.  It feels so wonderful to have in-person events and I appreciate our PTO’s efforts to strengthen our community and sense of belonging. 

NOON HOUR SUPERVISORS NEEDED

We are in need of extra lunchtime supervisors/helpers.  We need adults who want to want to volunteer on a regular basis (e.g. every Friday).  Additionally, we want to hire folks who can work 3-5 days a week from approximately 11:30AM - 1:30PM.   Please email fenechm@a2schools.or if you are interested in volunteering or coming on staff as a supervisor.  

FUN FRIDAYS

Every couple of weeks we’ll host a “fun Friday” spirit day.  This Friday, September 30th will be a pajama day!  Note: I do not recommend pajamas with footies. 

WALK-A-THON

If you haven’t heard yet, we have a pawsitively awesome plan for our biannual fall walk-a-thon.  Information and pledge forms will come home in backpacks later this week.  

HALLOWEEN - A FEW NOTES
- If your child does not want to celebrate Halloween on Monday, October 31st when we host a schoolwide parade, please let me know.  I am happy to sensitively plan another activity for your child.  

- Want to donate an old costume to a fellow Angell family?   We invite you to bring gently used costumes to Angell.  

- If your family is already shopping for Halloween costumes, please avoid costumes with weapons, gore, and scary accessories. 

COMMUNITY EVENTS/RESOURCES

From time to time, I’ll share local events that encourage inclusivity and/or offer children opportunities for extended learning.  

• JFS’  Walk a Mile event, October 9th - Flyer 

• Kelsey Museum, free event, October 16th - Flyer 

ON THE HORIZON

9/26 & 9/27 -  ***Rosh Hashanah

10/5 -  ***Yom Kippur 

10/12 - Fall Walk-A-Thon!  (Details about this annual event will come from the PTO)

10/18 - School Picture Day 

10/21 - PTO sponsored Outdoor Movie Night 

10/28 - PTO sponsored Dance

10/31 - Halloween Parade (Appr. 2:30-3:30PM)

September 18, 2022

Good afternoon Angell Families,

We did it!  Our students and staff completed the first full week of the 22-23 school year.  It was a busy week as we hosted Curriculum Night, started NWEA testing, and increased academic rigor.  Thank you to the parents who joined us at Thursday’s PTO meeting and offered to help orchestra our many PTO-sponsored events.  These events are wonderfully engaging, enriching, and memorable!  Even though the weather might be blustery, I hope for a good turnout at this Thursday’s PTO-sponsored picnic.  Lastly, thank you to the families who have dropped off snacks to fuel our kids and coffee/chocolate to fuel our staff.  These contributions are greatly appreciated and help us all feel a sense of belonging and love from this remarkable school community.   

DROP-OFF

Please practice a safe and speedy dropoff.  Have little ones practice taking off their seatbelt and departing the car with safe expediency.  Let's all work together to reduce back-ups along Washtenaw Ave. 

PICK-UP

If you use the pick-up loop after school, please remind your child to be ready and waiting for your arrival.  Pick-up is delayed when we have to find kids who’ve wandered to the playground. 

HALLOWEEN - A FEW NOTES
- If your family does not want to celebrate Halloween on Monday, October 31st when we host a schoolwide parade, please let me know.  I am happy to sensitively plan an other activity for your child.  

- Want to donate an old costume to a fellow Angell family?   We invite you to bring gently used costumes to our Fall Picnic!  We’ll collect costumes, oragnize them, and them have them available for “shopping” at a future date.  (Somewhat related, if you have gently used winter gear, please hold onto it for a few more weeks.  We’ll host a similar winter gear exchange for families who might want to trade up to a new size. We also have families with lesser means that we’ll help outfit with cold-weather gear.)

- If your family is already shopping for Halloween costumes, please keep weapons, gore, and scary accessories at home. 

TEACHING ASSISTANTS NEEDED

Do you know anyone who loves kids and wants a full-time job?  We need to hire 1-2 teaching assistants to work with kids in grades K-2.  Special education experience is not required.  We are seeking adults (with 60+ college credit hours) who enjoy working with small groups of kids, and are available M-F, 8:45 AM - 3:48 PM.  For more information, please email me at fenechm@a2schools.org To apply, go HERE

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES

Classroom teachers will contact families directly with options to sign up for fall Parent/caregiver-Teacher conferences.  We are happy to offer in-person and Zoom conferences, and we expect 100% of our families to sign up for conferences. We value your partnership! 

ON THE HORIZON

9/20 - Early release, dismissal for ALL students @ 1:18PM 

9/22 - Fall Picnic for Angell Community, 6-8PM (Please see the email sent by the PTO)

9/26 & 9/27   ***Rosh Hashanah

10/5  ***Yom Kippur 

10/12 - Fall Walk-A-Thon!  (Details about this annual event will come from the PTO)

10/18 - School Picture Day 

10/21 - PTO sponsored Outdoor Movie Night 

10/28 - PTO sponsored Dance

10/31 - Halloween Parade (Appr. 2:30-3:30PM)

September 11, 2022

THIS WEEK @ ANGELL: EVENTS & REMINDERS

CURRICULUM NIGHT

We will be hosting Curriculum Night this Tuesday, September 13th, from 6:00-7:30 PM.   During the evening, you will see your child’s classroom while hearing about the curriculum your child will be taught this year.   The layout of the evening will look as follows:

• 6:00 - 6:25 PM  - Classroom Teacher presentations

• 6:30 - 6:55PM -  Repeat Classroom Teacher presentations for families' convenience 

• 7:00 - 7:30PM - Principal & PTO session, New Life Church 

Support staff will be on hand to help families find their child’s classroom.  Please join us in two days!  (If you aren’t able to attend this Tuesday, staff will email their presentations to families.  Also, we look forward to scheduling parent-teacher conferences with ALL families in mid-late October.   Our partnerships with families are very valuable and much appreciated!)

VOLUNTEERING
Staff are in the process of organizing volunteer needs and invitations.  We are excited to have parents/caregivers back in the building soon!  If you have a desire to volunteer during lunchtime, on a regular basis, please email Ms. Lynn Gary at garym@aaps.k12.mi.us to share your availability and interest (i.e. lunchroom or outdoor supervision.)  

SNACK DONATIONS FOR KIDS

Because life happens, kids don’t always show up with daily snacks.  And some days (e.g. Mondays and PE days) kids are just hungrier than others.  If you can donate nut-free snacks like applesauce, popcorn, fruit leather, goldfish, pretzels, etc. to the office, we’ll happily house a stash for kids in need.  

CHOCOLATE DONATIONS FOR STAFF

On a far more trivial note, if you have an urge to purchase chocolate, or get it out of your house, the office will gladly take chocolate donations to resupply our candy stash for staff.  (Nuts are okay.)   While our staff is energized by our love for children, we are partially fueled by chocolate and caffeine.  ;) 

PLANTS NEEDED

Got a green thumb or too many house plants to manage? Angell is collecting house plants to help purify our air, green our space, and bring life into this 99-year-old building.  If you’d like to repurpose, purchase, or split an easy to care for indoor plant, we’ll happily find plants a home in our library or stairwells.  Our kids on Green Crew will help water the plants weekly. 

SAFETY PATROL

Thanks to the facilitation of Ms. Lee, 5th grade teacher, our 5th-grade Safety Patrol will start their posts this week!  Please offer suggestions if you see ways we can work together to keep our kids safe. 

STUDENT GROUPS

While we are still getting settled into the normal routines and rhythms of school, we are in the process of planning a K-2 and gr. 3-5 Green Crew and a Student Council.  More to come on ways that we’ll engage your children in leadership roles and encourage hands-on learning.

WALKING CLUB

One “club” we offer that does not require teacher leadership or a student application process, is the lunchtime Walking Club.  Following in the footsteps of Mr. Gary Court, I am hosting a lunchtime walking club for kids of all ages.  On the days that I am able, I simply keep track of the laps kids take around the school.  Five laps around the building allows students to earn one plastic foot charm.  I’ve hosted this already 2-3 times ans it’s amazing to see how engaging (and healthy) it is for kids!

ON THE HORIZON

9/20 - Early release day, dismissal for all students  @ 1:18PM 

9/22 - Fall Picnic for Angell Community, 6-8PM (Please see the email sent by the PTO)

9/26 & 9/27  Rosh Hashanah

10/12 - Fall Walk-A-Thon!  (Details about this annual event will come from the PTO)

10/18 - School Picture Day 

10/21 - PTO sponsored Outdoor Movie Night 

10/28 - PTO sponsored Dance

10/31 - Halloween Parade (Appr. 2:30-3:30PM)

REMINDERS FROM THE PTO (At this juncture the PTO will send a separate email every Tuesday but here are some important reminders.  We invite feedback if you’d prefer one combined weekly email.)

PTO Membership Survey: Every parent or guardian of an Angell student is automatically a member of the PTO. The Angell PTO's mission is to build a sense of support, pride, and enthusiasm, while encouraging parent and staff involvement in service of our children's education. What we accomplish in a school year requires participation from every family. That will look different for every family and that's ok! This might be setting up tables for our Book Fair, serving as Room Parent for your child's classroom, or chairing the Talent Show. If you haven’t already done so, please complete our Engagement Survey to select how you’d like to get involved this year.

PTO MEETING THIS THURSDAY MORNING:  This Thursday we’ll host our first PTO meeting!   PTO meetings are open to ALL parents/caregivers. We’ll meet at the University Lutheran Chapel (ULC) located at 1511 Washtenaw Ave.  The Angell and ULC parking lots are connected by a small set of stairs.  Please note that, from Washtenaw Avenue, ULC is to the left of the school entrance (not to be confused with New Life Church, which is to the right of the school).  The community room is at the rear of the chapel and can be found by either entering through the main chapel doors or via the Common Cup Cafe (walk to the back of the coffeehouse and up the stairs on the right). We will cover upcoming event information and our treasurer’s report.  We welcome new ideas, perspectives, and assistance. 

Family Contributions and Fundraising: Each year our PTO spends tens of thousands of dollars to provide enrichment opportunities including field trips, supplies, special projects like updating our school library, staff appreciation gifts, and events like our annual International Celebration. This school year, we anticipate spending $125 per student.  We invite every family to contribute what they can toward these costs by making a tax-deductible 'Family Contribution' to our PTO. If you can afford a gift of $125 per student in your household (or more!), that would go a long way toward covering our annual expenses. To make your family’s contribution please complete this Contribution Form. If you have questions about fees/suggested amounts, or to make a payment plan, please email your PTO treasurer.

September 5, 2022

Dear Angell Families, 

Staff, students, and families have all commented that last week was a smooth start at Angell.  Thank you for your role in launching this great year!  It was wonderful to celebrate the end of our first week with an assembly Thursday morning.  At the assembly we sang and signed a welcome song, introduced all staff, and set the tone for an inclusive, supportive, and celebratory school year.  Angell is celebrating its 100th school year!!  More to come on how the entire community can help us honor this incredible milestone. 

As we round the corner to a more typical week of school, I invite you to talk to your child about the power of “yet".   As academic expectations increase, as specials classes bring new challenges, and as we all encounter new situations, please remind your child that struggles are an opportunity to grow and preserve.  When you hear your child, or yourself,  using the word “cannot”, simply add the word “yet” to the end of the statement.  For example, “I cannot tie my shoes…..yet”, or “I cannot play an instrument….yet”.   Video clip for adults: www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-swZaKN2Ic  Video clip for lower elementary kids: www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLeUvZvuvAs  

If we have not met, yet, please introduce yourself at arrival or dismissal.  I have a lot of names to learn so I thank you in advance for granting me grace in meeting everyone and memorizing names.  

Warm regards,

Meg Fenech, Principal 

PLEASE, NO EARLY DROP-OFFS

We do not have outdoor supervision for students until 8:40AM.  Please do not drop your child off to school unattended before this time. We do have breakfast service that begins at 8:30AM. Your child can come to the front OR side entrance and ring the bell at that time to come in for breakfast.

BUS TRACKER

AAPS Bus Tracker has been disabled. AAPS will introduce a new family bus tracking system soon! We apologize for the inconvenience. 

COVID CASE REPORTING

If your child tests positive for COVID-19, you must fill out this form. This will alert the AAPS nursing team who will follow up with your family to determine the return to school date and answer any of your questions. Here also is a “What to do if you test positive” one-pager with more information. 

REMINDER: NO FREE MEALS THIS YEAR UNLESS QUALIFIED

Please apply for the Free and Reduced Lunch program. It's easy and can be done from your cell phone. AAPS Free & Reduced Lunch Application Link

MEDICATION DROPOFF

Parents/caregivers must be the one to bring their child’s medication to the office for check-in.  This is a district policy.  

SAFETY PATROL

Soon, you can expect our 5th grade student leaders and Safety Patrol to help with safe arrival and dismissal.  We’ll get the orange flags back along Oxford this week. 

PHONE NUMBERS/CONTACT INFO

Gone are the days when kids had to pick up corded phoned and dial all phone numbers from memory.  That said, ALL students should memorize 1-2 emergency numbers.  Please ensure your child has emergency contact info stored in their brain or backpack. (Rest assured, we have all contact info in the office but it’s an important life skill to know emergency numbers.) 

ATTENDANCE EMAIL 

Just a friendly reminder to email us at Ang_attendance@a2schools.org if your child is going to be absent.  Please include your child’s name, grade, teacher, and reason for absence. Thank you!

FLAGS

Adorning our main hallway, we proudly display the flags of countries from where our families originate.  If we are missing your family’s country or origin or affinity, you are invited to donate a flag (2.5’’x4’) or simply email me and I’ll get one ordered. 

CURRICULUM NIGHT

We will be hosting Curriculum Night IN PERSON on Tuesday, September 13th from 6:00-7:30 PM.   During the evening, you will see your child’s classroom and learning space while hearing about the curriculum your child will be taught this year.   The layout of the evening will look as follows:

• 6:00-6:25 PM  - Classroom Teacher presentations

• 6:30-6:55PM -  Repeat of Classroom Teacher presentations for families' convenience

• 7:00-7:30PM - Principal’s session and staff introductions, New Life Church 

Please join us!

ON THE HORIZON

9/13  - Curriculum Night, 6PM

9/15 - PTO meeting, 9AM (Common Cup Cafe) 

9/20 - Early release day, dismissal @ 1:18PM 

9/22 - Fall Picnic for Angell Community, 6PM

10/18 - School Picture Day!

Aug 28, 2022

In less than 20 hours, our staff will be stationed around Angell to warmly welcome your child to the 2022-23 school year.  Please reassure your child that any feeling they are experiencing is valid and likely to be quite commonplace.  I recommend teaching kids that the feeling of anxiety is physiologically almost the same as the feeling of excitement. Both feelings produce an elevated heart rate and a feeling of butterflies in your stomach.  Ask your child to reframe any anxious feelings as excitement about the unknown opportunities and fun they will experience at school.  We are here to nurture and support them academically and emotionally. 

Thank you to the many folks who were able to join us last Wednesday at the meet & greet.  I look forward to meeting additional families tomorrow and throughout the coming months.  I am grateful to be a member of this diverse and supportive school community. 

Regards,

Meg Fenech, Principal 

NEW INFORMATION

DAY ONE DROP-OFF

Ideally, we would like to have parents say goodbye to their children without coming into the building.  Coming into the building can make separation harder for kids because it blurs the line of where and when goodbyes happen.  Having a lot of extra adults in the school can actually make arrival feel and sound overwhelming. Please prep your child today for drop-off.  Staying with your child as they line up outside their assigned door is a great compromise!  All week Y5/K-3 teachers will warmly greet their students at their assigned door.  Gr. 4-5 teachers will meet kids at the outdoor doors for at least two days.  (After that, upper elementary students tend to prefer the autonomy.)  We also have staff stationed along South University to greet kids off the bus and help them get to their assigned arrival door. 

PTO/FAMILY COFFEE TOMORROW

THE PTO will host our annual parent coffee & connection event tomorrow. We’ll meet outside near the basketball court for coffee, snacks, and casual conversation from 8:45-9:45 AM.  Our lovely PTO will be there to greet folks, answer inquiries, and recruit parents into upcoming volunteer opportunities.  

BUS TRACKER

Our school bus partner, Durham School Services has provided an application, Bus Tracker, that will allow parents and guardians to view the location of their child(ren)’s bus in real time in relation to their assigned bus stop. For more information, to sign-up and create your secure login, or to use the application on your smartphone or web browser, please go to: www.durhamschoolservices.com/durham-bus-tracker

MEDICAL NEEDS

If your child has any medical needs, please read this letter carefully. Letter for incoming students with medical needs

REPEATS/REMINDERS

NEED-TO-KNOW

Please take some time to read the Need-To-Know document , and then bookmark it for future reference.

AFTER-SCHOOL/DISMISSAL PLAN

It is imperative that every family completes this pick-up/dismissal form NOW if you haven’t already done so.

NEW FAMILIES

All enrollment documents must be received by August 29th.  Our office staff, Ms. Durham and Mr. Reid, have reached out directly to families who still have outstanding documents.

‘

FREE OR REDUCED LUNCH: FOOD BENEFITS

If your family qualifies, go to  https://annarbor.familyportal.cloud/   Choose Guest. From there, choose Application.  OR, printable applications can be found HERE if you would like to fill one out and send it with your child to school.  We also have have paper copies in the office. 

FALL COVID GUIDANCE  (Shared Friday in Dr. Swift’s email)

The district COVID and Health Guidance page has been updated with fall guidance, the August 23 community webinar recording and slide show, FAQs, the daily symptom checker and a new one-pager on What to Do If You Test Positive. Student and parent/family volunteer COVID cases must be reported to AAPS if the individual was on campus within 48 hours of their symptoms starting or testing positive (if no symptoms). Beginning Monday morning, there are new COVID report forms for families to use when reporting their student’s case and for staff/volunteers:  Student Report Form: bit.ly/StudentCOVIDCase22-23

ON THE HORIZON

8/29 - First day of school (8:45 AM-3:48 PM) & welcome back coffee for parents 

9/2 - No school

9/5 - No school

9/13  - Curriculum Night

9/15 - PTO meeting, 9 AM

10/18 - School Picture Day!

August 21, 2022

Good evening Angell Families,

Welcome to the 2022-2023 school year!  I am excited to welcome all staff to the building tomorrow, in addition to hosting an orientation for our Kindergarten students.  This week our staff is rather busy setting up their rooms, attending meetings, collaborating with new colleagues, and thoughtfully preparing for the first day of school - Monday, August 29th!  We are welcoming a few new folks to our Angell team.  Please join me in welcoming: 

• Mrs. Vonnie Mato: 2nd grade teacher

• Mrs. Julia Newman: 5th grade teacher

• Mrs. Lisa Genoa: SISS Resource Room 

• Mrs. Carissa Perry: Social Worker

• Mrs. Jennifer Poliquin: Building Literacy Coach

• Mrs. Jennifer Haft: Occupational Therapist

Though I have been an administrator for 12 years, this is my first year serving the Angell School community, so I look forward to meeting our 300+ students and their families. I hope everyone will enjoy the last week of summer break. 

Lastly, if you missed last Sunday’s communication, you can view past communications at https://www.a2schools.org/domain/4521 

Warm regards,

Megan Fenech

Principal, Angell Elementary

NEED-TO-KNOW

Got questions about drop-off, lunch menus, or COVID protocols?  Please take some time to read this comprehensive Need-To-Know document, and then bookmark it for future reference.

AFTER-SCHOOL/DISMISSAL PLAN

It is imperative that every family completes this pick-up/dismissal form by Saturday, August 27th.  (You can complete it once class placement emails go out Tuesday night.)

POPSICLES EVENT

This Wednesday’s Popsicles on the Playground event is an informal Meet & Greet opportunity for ALL families.  Classroom teachers will be on the playground to meet children from 4:30-5:30PM.  Remember, parking is very challenging, so you are encouraged to walk or bike.  Y5-K teachers will be on the lower playground, grade 1-2 teachers will be on the basketball court, and grade 3-5 teachers will be in front of the school. 

TOUR SIGN-UP

If your family is NEW to Angell, are offering short building tours on Wednesday, August 24th between 5:00-6:30PM.  We are not entering classrooms, rather, we are walking the hallways so your child can locate their classroom, the office, the specials classrooms, etc.   Your tour guide will also answer questions you might have to orient you to Angell Elementary.   (If you are a pre-existing Angell parent who hasn't been inside the school yet, rest assured there will be future opportunities to be in the building.)  Sign up HERE 

COVID UPDATES 

If you haven’t already, please review Dr. Swift’s message sent out this afternoon regarding Back-to-School updates and Covid Guidance.   AAPS Fall 2022 COVID-19 Health Guidance here

EXTENDED DAY: BEFORE & AFTER CARE

Registration for Angell Elementary After Care will open on Tuesday, Sept. 6 at 10:00 AM. If staffing has stabilized for us to offer the AM program, that will be included as an option in the link on 9/6. Registration is available on a first-come, first-served basis.  The anticipated start date for this program is Monday, Sept. 26.  Please use this link to register. 

• The program registration is for full-week AM and/or full-week PM.   AM fees will be $256 per month and PM fees will be $384 per month charged each month from September - May. The first payment will be due 9/25. We are not able to offer registration for select days each week or drop-in care.

ON THE HORIZON

8/22 - Kindergarten Readiness/ Orientation day (Just for Kindergarten, not Y5 students)

8/24 - Popsicles on the Playground: Meet & Greet (4:30-5:30 PM) and NEW family tours (5:00-6:30 PM)

8/29 - First day of school (8:45 AM-3:48 PM) & welcome back coffee for parents 

9/2 - No school

9/5 - No school

9/13  - Curriculum Night

9/15 - PTO meeting, 9 AM

August 14, 2022

Greetings Angell Families, 

I hope this email finds your family in the midst of a joyful summer.  Our office staff (i.e. Lisa, Janet, and I) are busy preparing for a successful launch this year.  We are finalizing class placements, preparing staff professional development, enrolling new families, and completing dozens of startup tasks.  Essentially, we are preparing to welcome 300+ kids back into the building in a manner that’s safe and joyful.  Student safety will always be of the utmost priority - physically, socio-emotionally, and academically.

Below you can read sufficient notes about school events and information.  You can expect similar messages sent weekly. 

I am eager to connect face to face soon!  In the meantime, please reach out with any questions, concerns, or comments,  

Warm regards,

Meg Fenech, Principal 

fenechm@a2schools.org

KINDERGARTEN READINESS/ORIENTATION 

We are excited to offer an opportunity for your Kindergarten student to get a "headstart" on beginning their Kindergarten year at Angell.  On Monday, August 22nd, our Kindergarten teachers, Mrs. McKee and Mrs. Ziolkowski, are offering sessions for students to come to Angell and get acquainted with our school.  Our Kindergarten teachers will provide time for students to get to know each other, work on socialization skills, practice classroom routines, play games, and become familiar with the building and playground.  This opportunity will definitely help your child gain confidence and increase comfort when the first day of Kindergarten occurs on Monday, August 29th.  Please register at 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60b0849afad2da1fa7-angell3 

CLASS PLACEMENTS/SCHEDULES

Families will learn who their child’s K-5 homeroom teacher the evening of Tuesday, August 23rd.  We will email need-to-know school information along with your child’s classroom placement. 

POPSICLES ON THE PLAYGROUND (MEET & GREET) AND ORIENTATION

Please mark your calendar for an informal meet & greet on the playground, Wednesday, August 24th.   If you cannot attend, that’s okay, this is an optional time to connect with Angell staff and families.

• 4:30 - 5:30 PM - Teachers & staff will be stationed on the playground to meet families.  (Thank you to the PTO for providing popsicles.) 

• 5:30 - 6:15 PM -  Orientation & tours for NEW-to-Angell Families  (sign-up forthcoming) 

 Given our very, very limited options for parking, we encourage you to walk or bike to school. 

2021-22 BELL SCHEDULE & CALENDAR

Click here to see the AAPS calendar at a glance.  Our bell schedule is 8:45 AM - 3:48 PM.  (PLEASE know that timely arrival is really important for kids and teachers.  We thank you in advance for getting your child to school on time.  It’s important for their success.)

BUS ROUTES

Check here bus route numbers, stops, and times.  

REC & ED AFTER-SCHOOL CLASSES

Registration for fall Rec & Ed programming starts this Monday at 10:00AM. You can explore all the offerings at  https://www.aarecedonline.com/  

• After-School Classes (by school)

• Instructional Sports

• Early Childhood Classes & Early Childhood Instructional Sports

SCHOLARSHIPS ARE AVAILABLE! Please call (734) 994-2300 ext. 0 for details.

EXTENDED DAY: BEFORE/AFTERCARE

The Rec & Ed staff is working hard to recruit adequate supervisors in order to host Before & After Care at Angell!   As soon as we have a green light to enroll families you can expect communication via email.  In the meantime, general extended day information can be found at https://www.a2schools.org/Page/4206 

SCHOOL SUPPLIES

We will purchase the classroom materials that students need so you do NOT need to purchase things like paper, pencils, markers, folders, etc. But….if you are interested in making donations, teachers and the office are always appreciative of soft tissues, cleaning wipes, and coffee!  We are purchasing a new coffee maker that uses ground coffee or k-cups.  If you want to donate some caffeine to our hardworking staff, we’d be appreciative.  

ENROLLMENT DOCUMENTS & OFFICE HOURS

If you are new to Angell or if you have a change of address, be sure you have provided the office with the necessary documents.  You can reach Lisa Durham, school secretary, at durhaml@a2schools.org or (734.994.1907)  We are back in the office M-F with open hours 9:30-11:30 AM and 1:00-3:00 PM. 

AAPS VIRTUAL PROGRAMMING OPTIONS

If you are still considering AAPS’ online school program for the fall, visit www.a2schools.org/a2village 

SAVE THE DATE

On the first day of school, the PTO will host our annual parent coffee & connection event. Weather permitting, we’ll meet outside for coffee, snacks, and casual conversation. So mark your calendar on 8/29/22 from 8:45-9:45 AM.  Our lovely PTO will be there to greet folks, answer inquiries, and recruit parents into upcoming volunteer opportunities.  

SCHOOL LUNCH & BREAKFAST

School meals are no longer free-of-charge unless your family qualifies for support. To load money onto your child’s account, please visit Ann Arbor Family Portal.  Menus are viewable at https://a2schools.nutrislice.com/   

To learn more about free & reduced lunch, please see https://www.a2schools.org/Page/8315.  

PARENT HOMEWORK 

PLEASE start labeling your child’s clothes, water bottles, lunch boxes, etc. with their last name.  A simple sharpie marker is sufficient. Mabels Labels sells affordable labels at https://mabelslabels.com/en_US/fundraising/support/ 

AAPS COMMUNITY RESOURCES

If your family is seeking resources pertaining to a wide variety of needs - food, internet, medical, etc. be sure to visit - https://www.a2schools.org/Page/15636 

COVID HEALTH & SAFETY PROTOCOLS

We are operating under these Back to School / AAPS COVID-19 Health & Safety Protocols until August 26th.  When we have updated protocols, you can expect an email. 

ON THE HORIZON

8/22 - Kindergarten Readiness or Orientation day 

8/24 - Popsciples on the Playground: Meet & Greet (4:30-5:30 PM) and NEW family orientation (5:30 PM)

8/29 - First day of school (8:45 AM-3:48 PM) & welcome back coffee 

9/2 - No school

9/5 - No school

9/13  - Curriculum Night

9/15 - PTO meeting, 9 AM