Principal’s Message:

Hello Golden Owls,

 

Next week we will have open house from 6:00-7:00 PM. This is an exciting time to join your child in touring their own classroom, and is a great opportunity for students to share what they have been learning in class. We look forward to making this a fun family night complete with CSMA art show in the MUR. This night is truly a family favorite you won’t want to miss! 

Morning drop-off and Afternoon Pick-up

As we are nearing the end of the school year, I wanted to send out some gentle reminders so that we have a better drop-off and pick-up.  Be safe and respectful: 

• As you are turning into the school, please remember that there is only one turning lane. I have noticed several cars turning from the far left lane, and creating an unsafe environment. 

• If driving to campus, only use the drop-off/pickup lane closest to the sidewalk. Do NOT let your child exit or enter your car on the second lane. 

• Parents are STRONGLY encouraged to use the drop-off lane instead of parking in the parking lot. 

  • Parking interrupts the flow of traffic and creates a backlog of cars. 

• Pull all the way forward and have your child exit quickly.

  •  Please have all materials packed and ready to go (water bottles, masks, lunch, library books)

  • Students should put their backpacks outside the car, if they need assistance, one of our staff members will assist them in putting on their backpacks. Please do not get out to assist your child. 

• If you need to get out of the vehicle to assist your child, pull all the way forward to the front of the line. 

  • Stopping in the middle of the drop-off lane stops others from pulling more forward and makes it harder for cars to pass you as you open the driver’s car door. 

• Give bicyclists space. The law requires that you provide at least 3 feet of distance between the car and the bicyclist.

• If walking to campus, only cross the street at the crosswalks.  

In Partnership, 

Principal Vern Taylor

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Events Calendar

March 2023

 

April 2023

 

May 2023

 

 

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In this Newsletter

School News:

• Golden Ticket Winners

• Bookmobile Coming!

• Electives selection for grades 5-7 opens soon

• Earth Hour  - March 25th

• J A Vargas Helps Our Community

• Fuel for the Future: National Nutrition Month

• Parent University: My Digital Tat2: Parent Education for Setting Healthy Boundaries Around Technology Use02

• Parent University: Preparing for Middle School

• 5th grade promotion date

• Not Returning Students for 2023-2024 School Year

• Principal’s Virtual Office Hours

 

Flyers:

• March Lunch Menu - Here

• 2023-2024 School Year Calendar - Link here

 

District News:

• The Board of Trustees will meet on Thursday, March 16 at 6:00 p.m. 

• March 2023 CAC Events

• Seeking members for the Sustainability Task Force

• Crittenden Middle School Spring Musical: Matilda Jr. Ticket Order Form here

• Graham Middle School Spring Musical: Moana Jr. Flyer here

• Health and Wellness Parenting Tip: Calming your Mind

• The View Teen Center: March Events Flyer here

• CSA Empty Bowls Fundraiser: Tickets available now

• CTE Summer Exploration Program - Flyer

• MVHS Spartans Sports Camp: Registration Open Flyer here

• Introducing MVWSD Plus+

PTA News:

• PTA Association Meeting and Executive Board Elections March 22, 2023 8:30 a.m.

• Walkathon - Save the date - Friday March, 31st, 3-6pm

• Square One Art PTA Fundraiser

• Donation Request

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Golden Ticket Winners March 09, 2023
Ethan H.        RM: 1           Elliot R.         RM: 11
Seowon H.     RM: 2           Arif O.           RM: 13
Sohan B.        RM: 3           Maurya B.     RM: 14
Levi J.           RM: 4           Caleb C.         RM: 15
Maya K.        RM: 5           Sofia R.          RM: 16
Perla G.         RM: 6           Layla A.         RM: 17
Hannah C.     RM: 8           Ms. Sunita     RM: 10C
Luciana R.     RM: 9              
Bewinwin L. RM: 10

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School News

 

Bookmobile Coming!

Our Bookmobile will be here this Thursday, March 16th! More details can be found here.

Electives selection for grades 5-7 opens soon

It is the time of year when our incoming middle school students (grades 5-7) choose their elective courses for next year. All 5th-7th graders should select their course electives online by April 7, 2023 through the PowerSchool portal. Fifth- through seventh-grade parents, please look for an email in your inbox dated March 24 with links to course catalogs and directions. Please talk with your student and then log in to your PowerSchool portal account (either student’s or parent’s) beginning March 27 to help your student select his/her electives.  If you have difficulty with PowerSchool, please contact your school secretary. If you have not confirmed your child's enrollment for the 2023-24 school year, elective course selection will not be available.

Earth Hour  - March 25th

Every year, at 8:30pm local time on the last Saturday of March, supporters in over 190 countries and territories unite, taking action on and raising awareness of the issues facing our one home. 

 

But Earth Hour is more than just an hour for Earth - it's a movement for our own futures, for the benefit of people and planet.

 

And it's not only a symbol of solidarity - it's a catalyst for change, harnessing the power of the crowd. 

 

Here are some ways you can give your hour:

Pick up litter in your local area

Go for an outdoor walk

Spread awareness

Cook a sustainable meal

Read an article about the environment or ways to take action

 

Let us know what you'll be doing using #MyHourForEarth! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=niZ54wV6QdE

J.A. VARGAS HELPS OUR COMMUNITY

Ronald McDonald House gives families with a sick child what they need most—each other

Their mission is simple: provide critically ill children with communities of support, access to medical care and the healing power of family and home. Their objectives are clear: ease the emotional and financial burden families endure.

 

Vargas is asking for donations to create care kits for families. Please bring your donation to the classroom or to the office by Friday, March 31.

 

Remember: All items must be new and in original packaging.

• Toiletry Kits: (Travel-sized)

      Shampoo, Conditioner, Bar soap, Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Deodorant

 

• Snack Packs: (Individually packaged, non-perishable snacks)

      Pretzels, Fruit snacks, Granola bars, Cookies, Chips, Small waters/drinks

 

Fuel for the Future: National Nutrition Month

Stay Nourished and Save Money

Healthy eating doesn’t have to be expensive - it’s an important part of taking care of yourself and your family. Here are some ways to stay nourished while saving money: 

• Plan your meals ahead of time and use a grocery list

• Choose seasonal fruits and vegetables, which are often less expensive and more flavorful 

• Resources like SNAP, WIC, and local free food programs can provide additional assistance for healthy food options. 

Eating Right on a Budget (Spanish)

(Repeat) Parent University: My Digital Tat2: Parent Education for Setting Healthy Boundaries Around Technology Use

Date: 3/28/23  

Time: 6:00-7:15 pm  Registration Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88165554763

Kids are online more than ever in this post-COVID world, with increased use of digital technology for academics, entertainment, and social connection.

 

Join My Digital TAT2 for an engaging and informative live webinar on Tuesday, March 28th from 6:00 - 7:15 PM. This event will be presented in Spanish and translated into English.

 

Hear what young people are doing online and how they are affected by the latest apps and trends from the world of technology. Get strategies for how to support responsible, mindful, and healthy use of the internet, social media, and gaming. Learn what you can do to stay connected with your child as their online lives expand.

 

Recommended for all adults who support youth and want to learn thoughtful and supportive ways to navigate media together. For more information about My Digital TAT2 visit: www.mydigitaltat2.org

To submit questions prior to the event, go to mvw.sd/questions. We will do our best to address your question during the session.

Parent University: Preparing for Middle School

Date and Time: April 4, 2023  5:30 - 7:00 p.m.  Registration Link: http://mvw.sd/pu040423

Nervous about middle school? We get it! Change can be daunting, but it can also lead to amazing new experiences. Join us to learn how to support your children as they prepare for the next stage in their academic and social lives. We will feature a panel of staff and students from Crittenden and Graham who will offer lots of wisdom and details about grades six, seven, and eight. See you there!

To submit your questions prior to the event, go to mvw.sd/questions. 

(Repeat) 5th Grade Promotion Date

Each year, we look forward to celebrating with families as our 5th grade students are promoted to middle school. This year, the 5th grade promotion date is Monday, June 5. We will share more specifics about the celebration as details are available.

(Repeat) Not Returning Students for 2023-2024 School Year

If you plan on moving during the summer or know your child will not return to our District for the 2023-2024 school year, please email our school secretary at [email protected].

(Repeat) Principal’s Virtual Office Hours

Principal Office Hours virtually on Wednesdays from 4pm -5pm. Feel free to drop in if you have any questions or if you just want to chat. For office hours, there is no formal agenda, it is a time for you to stop in to say hello, and for us to get to know each other better! I look forward to meeting you!

 

Register in advance for this meeting.

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. 

 

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District News

The Board of Trustees will meet on Thursday, March 16 at 6:00 p.m. 

Some of the topics include:

• Second Interim Financial Report

• Wellness Policy Progress Report

• English Language Learners Reclassification Update

• School Safety Update

For meeting details and agenda, please click here: https://www.mvwsd.org/trustees.

March 2023 CAC Events 

SELPA 1 CAC and the Learning Challenge Committee are your groups for special education and broader learning challenge needs. We are ALL having learning challenges right now, and CAC and LCC are here to help. If you have questions about learning challenges and special education needs, email [email protected] or check out www.selpa1cac.org

We encourage families to learn about the sensory needs all children: Try a Sensory Diet

Behavioral Panel of Experts - Challenging Behaviors and Strategies at different ages

Presented by SELPA 1 CAC / Palo Alto CAC

Wednesday March 22, 7 pm on Zoom

Does your child have behavioral challenges at school and at home?

Behavior is communication. Join the CAC and expert panelists from CAPTAIN and PENT for a presentation on strategies to help with behaviors at different ages. Although CAPTAIN is focused on those students with autism spectrum concerns, these insights are suitable for all students. Have a specific question - submit your question ahead of time to our panel here: Questions for the Panel

Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEkduCurTorHNSOp-szKwNTJdpzNXprqunq

Missed our Parent Education events last year?

We have a YouTube channel with many of our past events including last year’s Inclusive Fun Fair for summer camps and recreational activities, Anxiety and Depression in Children with Learning Challenges, SMART Goals and IEP Troubleshooting, and more. Channel is here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuy7IcVz-4LTDxv2Jaq13nw

Seeking members for the Sustainability Task Force

MVWSD is seeking members for a Sustainability Task Force to work on current and future environmental and sustainable practices at our schools and campuses.  The goal of the group is to give meaningful feedback to the superintendent and support MVWSD towards achieving its goals of becoming more green in its facilities and practices. 

We are seeking a combination of district-level leaders, principals, teachers, staff members, and parents who represent the interests of both elementary and middle schools. Committee members will be expected to attend and participate in meetings held every other month (on average) online during the school year in the evening hours. Applications are due by March 23 and found at this link. More information is at https://www.mvwsd.org/about/committees. 

Crittenden Middle School Spring Musical: Matilda JR.Form to buy Tickets here

Crittenden Middle School proudly presents the story of a girl who dreams of a better life, and the children she inspires. This show will have audiences rooting for the "revolting children" who are out to teach the grown-ups a lesson.  Packed with high-energy dance numbers and catchy songs, Matilda JR. is a joyous girl power romp. Children and adults alike will be thrilled and delighted by the story of the special little girl with an extraordinary imagination.

Showtimes:

Friday, March 24th – 7:30 pm
Saturday, March 25th – 7:30 pm
Sunday, March 26th – 2:00 pm

Performances will be held in the Crittenden Middle School Auditorium, 1701 Rock Street. 

Parental Guidance Note: This show may not be appropriate for children under the age of 7. 

Tickets may be purchased in advance online (see the links on the attached flyer) or by dropping off your payment and order form at the Crittenden Front Office, no later than Monday, March 20th at 2:30pm. If shows are not sold out in advance, tickets will be available for purchase at the Box Office 30 minutes prior to showtime.  See the attached Ticket Order Form for details on pricing and online ticket purchases.

Graham Middle School Spring Musical: Moana Jr. Flyer Here

Get ready to set sail on a musical adventure with "Moana Jr."! Featuring beloved songs like "How Far I'll Go" and "You're Welcome", this musical is a must-see for fans of all ages! 

The students, staff, and parents have been working so hard for months to present the best performance. Don't miss your chance to experience the magic of "Moana Jr." on stage! 

Tickets are now available for purchase here. The show information is as follows:

Graham Middle School Auditorium

March 24th and 25th 7:30 pm

March 26th 2:00 pm

Adult Ticket: $15

Student Ticket: $10

Health and Wellness Parenting Tip: Calming Your Mind

When we feel stressed, our minds tend to jump to the past (I should have...) or to the future (What if...?). The problem is that we cannot change the past nor control the future. Focusing on the present can help us take control of our current situation and help us feel calmer and more relaxed.

Watch this video to learn more about how mindfulness can help you (or your child) be more present and relaxed. 

To calm your (or your child’s) mind:

1. Look around you, and name five things you see. Pick one object, and describe what it looks like, what color, what size, and what shape it is. 

2. Look for four things you can touch. Pick one of those items to touch, and describe how it feels. 

3. Name three things that you can hear. At first, it might seem that there is not much to hear, but listen carefully. Focus on one sound, and describe it. 

4. Look for two things you can smell. Focus on one smell, and describe it.

5. Find one thing you can taste. Focus on the taste and describe it.

You can repeat these steps every time you feel stressed to come back to the present moment. 

The View Teen Center: March Events Flyer here

The View Teen Center is a free facility in Mountain View (263 Escuela Ave) for all Mountain View and Los Altos 6th - 12th grade students. The center is open Monday through Friday: 3:30 - 7 p.m. and Saturday: 1 - 6 p.m, and features a game room, makerspace, kitchen, computer/study room, outdoor area, and much more! March Teen Center events include a Career Day, Basketball Tournament, a St. Patrick’s Day celebration, and a Bike to Boba. See attached flyer for details about more upcoming events and programs or visit their webpage for more information.

CSA Empty Bowls Fundraiser: Tickets available now

Empty Bowls is Community Services Agency's annual fundraiser benefiting Homeless Services. Featuring bottomless ice cream, beautiful bowls, and fun children’s activities, this year’s event takes place on Sunday, April 30th from 2-4pm in Rengstorff Park. Purchase your tickets online now. If you are in need of services, please call 650-968-0836.

CTE Summer Exploration Program - Flyer

Limited spaces are available for CTE’s Summer Exploration program (June 5 - 29) for students grades 7 - 12. The program is interactive with a "learn by doing" focus and students experience hands-on learning on STEAM topics. Classes include Animation, Fashion Design & Textile Art, Film & Video Production, Medical Assisting, Medical Science/Health Careers, and Veterinary Science. Registration opens in April. For more information, visit www.SVCTE.org or contact Kiran Grewal at [email protected].

MVHS Spartans Sports Camp: Registration Open Flyer here

Spartans Sports Camp is proud to announce that registration for Summer Camp 2023 is now open. Camp will run June 12 - July 28 this summer, and include sports, performing arts, and academic enrichment camps. Spartans Sports Camp is operated entirely by the MVHS Athletic Department and all proceeds go directly to support the sports programs at MVHS. For more information and registration, visit www.SpartansSportsCamp.com.

Introducing MVWSD Plus+

We are pleased to introduce a new district program that aims to provide qualifying students with enriching summer and after-school care. Two opportunities are coming soon:

+Summer Camp 2023

Summer learning is getting a makeover! +Summer Camp will be hosted at district sites and operated by partners YMCA and Right At School. These full day camps will feature YMCA’s and RAS’s award-winning programs as well as exciting and enriching workshops led by MVWSD teachers, CSMA Art and Music instructors, and Canopy outdoor educators.  

+Afterschool for the 2023-24 School Year

Qualifying students will be able to attend Right At School, YMCA, or Beyond the Bell after school clubs free of charge. These programs will support students from the end of the school day until 6pm and full-day during certain school year breaks, such as Thanksgiving week.

Who qualifies? 

Students who are socioeconomically disadvantaged and/or English Learners. If you have questions or think you may qualify, contact your school office.

For more details, check out our MVWSD Plus+ website and please look for individualized applications by the end of March.

 

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PTA News

 

PTA Association Meeting and Executive Board Elections March 22, 2023 8:30 a.m.

We will hold elections for next years’ PTA Executive Board on March 22, 8:30 a.m. Register here, agenda available here. Please try to attend this meeting as we need a quorum in order to elect our new board members.

 

Thank you to those PTA members who have volunteered to fill positions for next year’s Executive Board! Here is a list of nominees.  We are still looking for a Vice President role as well as other committee roles. See a list of open positions with a summary of the role and timeline here and/ or contact Shannon Lundin [email protected], Kim Cheng [email protected]

 

Walkathon - Save the date - Friday March, 31st, 3-6pm

We have been busy planning a Walkathon fundraiser for 3/31. Check out our event teaser video! 

The Walkathon aims to get students moving in a fun-filled family event with prizes, music, and more. It is our main fundraiser of the year-- we hope to fundraise over 50% of next year's PTA budget, which goes towards after-school enrichment, assemblies, classroom supplies, community events, and much more.

Our goal is to walk over 2000 laps and raise $25,000.

 

Please consider volunteering to make our first in-person Walkathon a successful event, we will need all the available hands we can get! 

Volunteer sign-up: https://tinyurl.com/JAVWalkathon2023

 

Square One Art PTA Fundraiser

For this fundraiser Ms. June helped students create a piece of artwork that was submitted by PTA to Square One Art. They take your child's artwork and transfer it to gift items like coffee mugs, key chains etc…These are great gifts for mothers day and family members!

 

A catalog will be coming home with your student soon but you can get a head start and order online now.

 

Simply search for your child's art using Art Search, and enter state, school name, and your student's name. Your student's art and code will appear, and you may order!

 

Order by:  4/7/2023

 

Donation request: 

We are looking for an ipad (version 12 or up) or android tablet (version 7 or up) to use at events for gear and concession sales and membership and Konstella sign ups. If anyone has an old tablet they would be willing to donate please contact [email protected]