Sept 29- Oct 3 PLES Family Forecast

Hello PLES Families,

Thank you again for your patience and partnership as we navigated the challenges of reorganizing our school this past week. With over 70 student moves, getting everyone settled was a true team effort, and your support made that huge transition successful. We are so happy to be fully focused on learning!

Successes and Learning Focus

We are thrilled to share some great news and highlight where our staff is focusing their energy:

• Our hot lunch program is off to a wonderful start, and student satisfaction is high—especially with the new menus!
• This week's Professional Development  session focused on new P-2 literacy interventions to ensure every student is reading at grade level.
• Our Grade 3-5 teachers also took an important step by previewing the exciting new curriculum being launched this year.

Moving forward, ourfocus is on supporting every student’s learning and strengthening the vital partnership between our teachers, staff, and our families.

Honoring Truth and Reconciliation

Each year on September 30, we observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This is a day for all of us to honor the children who never returned from residential schools, as well as the survivors, their families, and communities.

• Since there are no classes on Monday, September 29, and Tuesday, September 30, our staff and students wore orange on Friday, September 26, to acknowledge the importance of this day and the principle that "Every Child Matters." 

Focus on Foundational Reading Skills (Grade 1 & 2)

As we get to know our newest learners, we will be implementing Universal Screening in Reading for all Grade 1 and 2 students.

• What is it? This is a short (1–5 minute) activity that helps us quickly see how your child is developing key reading skills. Think of it as a quick "check-up" on their reading journey.
• Why is it helpful? It gives teachers clear data on a child's strengths and areas where they may need additional support. This allows us to plan and tailor instruction so every student gets exactly what they need to thrive.
• A Note for Families: This is not a test and there is no “pass” or “fail.” It is simply a tool for us to ensure we are proactively supporting all students in their learning.

Important Logistics: Pick-Up, Drop-Off, and Weather

We appreciate your cooperation in helping us keep our routines smooth and safe for all students:

• Visitor Check-In: We kindly ask that all visitors stop at the main office immediately upon entering the school building. Our staff is ready to help guide students and ensure any items dropped off are delivered properly.
• End-of-Day Pick-Up (1:45 PM – 2:10 PM): This is our most congested time of the day. To ensure a smooth dismissal, please arrange all pick-ups and messages well in advance. If you need to pick up a student early, please plan to arrive before 1:45 PM.
• Weather Preparedness: Students will be outside in various types of weather. Please ensure they have a change of clothes and are prepared for the day (e.g., we go out in light rain or mist, but not in heavy, prolonged rain).

Key Dates for Your Calendar

Have a great (short) week!

Sincerely,

Mr. Fry

Principal, PLES