PCKCS 4-3-08

FROM THE DIRECTOR

By now most of you have received the OC letter announcing the addition of a new (third) Kindergarten class – a bonus class – we are offering next fall. I am very excited to welcome these new students to our school, and I know many of their parents are happy to have a full-day kindergarten option. We still have many logistical details to work through, but I am already looking forward to next fall.

One other change to note as we look forward to the 2008-09 school year is a shift in placement for our 6th grade. Currently, we are one of only a few schools in Douglas County that considers 6th grade middle school. Beginning in August, 2008, we will ‘reclassify’ our 6th grade as an elementary grade. Some of our reasons for making this change include:
• The developmental (maturity) level of 11-12 year olds is more closely aligned with elementary students; we will now align with DCSD middle and elementary schools
• Sixth grade students still need the guidance of a primary or homeroom teacher; there is significant training that must occur in 6th grade in order for the student to be adequately prepared for the changes that occur in 7th/8th grade (e.g. the rotating block schedule, having a different teacher for each subject, and the organization of school work, supplies and locker required for success.)
• The need to provide adequate Parent-Teacher Conference slots for all parents of 6th grade students; the current middle school conference model does not allow enough slots
• The opportunity to improve scheduling and the allocation of support resources for 6th grade were also considerations
From the students’ perspective, this ‘reclassification’ will be relatively invisible. Here’s a look at what will change and what will stay the same:

Change
• A new lunch period (12:15 P.M.)
• A revised class schedule
• No Khaki pants/shorts
• No participation in Middle School socials


Stay the same
• Lockers for 6th graders – they still need to practice
• Location of classrooms / two classroom teachers
• Parent access to the IC Parent Portal
• Grading on a Quarterly basis


The final change impacting next year’s 6th graders has nothing to do with the reclassification of 6th grade as an elementary grade, but it involves a change in the 6th grade teachers. After many years of faithful service, Mrs. Sitzmann and Mrs. Colley have both decided to seek new teaching opportunities outside of Core. We are sad to see them go, but we wish them both the very best in their new positions.

As I wrap up this letter to all of you, I am reminded of a quote that seems most fitting for my close: “Nothing in life is constant, except change.” We can either fight it or roll gracefully with it, and I for one love the excitement of what’s to come. I hope you do, too!

APRIL
10th May menus due
18th Dads & Donuts
18th MS Social
22nd Earth Day
25th & 26th Dinner Theater

Earth Day, April 22nd - The Middle School will be involved in a symposium about water issues, and will have opportunities to hear from a number of community members. Later in the day, older students will mentor younger students in water-related activities. There will also be tree plantings, and an exploration of UV radiation. We are encouraging everyone to try to make it a trash-free day, so, if your student is bringing a sack lunch, please try to use reusable containers. Thank you for your support!

Square One Art Fundraiser – FAQ’s
Do I need to return the original artwork with my order? No
Is the magnet free? Yes
How much do I pay for shipping if I order for more than one child? $1.50 shipping per family.
Orders are due tomorrow, Friday, April 4th

PTO

Dads & Donuts – This very fun event for students and dads will be held again this year – April 18th at 7:00 A.M in the school gym. Moms - we need your help! Please e-mail Cristy Johnston at cristy.johnston@comcast.net.




MS Movie Night (originally scheduled for April 11th) has been postponed.


PCKCS Dinner
Theater April 25th & 26th

The Fiddler on the Roof is only 22 days away from curtain time and the cast and crew are ready!! Ticket sales are hot as well, with the Saturday shows virtually sold out. If you are planning on getting tickets for friends or family please call Cindy Piggott at 303-805-1969 soon so you don’t miss out! As of Wednesday this week, we have only 33 seats left for Friday night, 11 for the Saturday matinee and 7 for the Saturday night show.

Sewing Day, Part II is scheduled for this coming Saturday, April 5th from 10am – 3pm at Joy Lutheran Church. The first day was a huge success thanks to so many hands pitching in (want to know who? Read the “Fiddler News”…). If you can help (sewing, ironing or any other important jobs that need to be done), please join in. The goal is to finish up all costumes for the show. Call Christy Pearson or Yvonne Knapp and let them know you plan to help.

For more details and information about the show, please be sure to read the “Fiddler News” in your Thursday folder today. Call Cindy Piggott at 303-805-1969 for more ticket info.

Thank Yous


To the Cummings family for the art donation of art supplies.


To Mom’s in Touch for the beautiful tulips that lasted all week in out lounge.