MacDowell Newsletter

Parent/Student Handbook On Rights, Responsibilities, And Discipline

Download the vaccine consent form in English.

School Newsletter Vol. 13

November 15, 2021 By sanfelax

NO SCHOOL MONDAY, November 15th (Record Day)

NO SCHOOL November 24-26th (Thanksgiving Break)

LOST AND FOUND: Our lost and found, located next to the main entrance safety desk, is getting full. We have a number of unlabeled sweatshirts, jackets, and water bottles that have not yet been claimed. Please encourage your student to check this area to look for any lost items. Thank you.

Reading Corner – Library Updates

Contact Ms. Raasch via email with any questions: RAASCHTL@milwaukee.k12.wi.us
MacDowell Montessori encourages all families to carve out time in their busy schedules to create a habit of reading aloud with children at home. Reading aloud, even for a short time (10-15 minutes) helps create positive experiences with reading, builds foundational literacy skills, and helps strengthen the adult-child bond. Allowing students to choose the books they read will add excitement and engagement.
Ms. Raasch LOVES to give book recommendations. Don’t hesitate to send her an email if you’re struggling to choose or find books to read together!
All parents are encouraged to take 10 minutes to watch this TED Talk that beautifully explains Why we should all be reading aloud to children | Rebecca Bellingham | TEDxYouth@BeaconStreet

Book Fair Now Open! Please note the change in opening date – it opens Nov. 11th!

MacDowell will host our 2nd Annual Virtual Book Fair from Nov. 11- Nov. 21

→Shop here: https://tinyurl.com/MacReads2021

Our book fair is through Rainbow Booksellers, a wonderful local children’s bookstore, who have hosted our physical book fairs in the past. Please visit the book fair link, families may purchase books directly online and books will be delivered to MacDowell approximately 2 weeks after the close of the book fair. Parent Coordinator Claudine will be in touch to work out the delivery of items and will be mindful that some items might be gifts. Rainbow Booksellers generously gives MacDowell 25% of all sales.

STUDENT COUNCIL DRIVES

Winter Clothing Drive

Dear Parents and Students of Macdowell, This fall our MacDowell Montessori High School Student Council is hosting a winter clothing drive with the help of the student council, from November 15th through December 3rd, to help keep families of our MacDowell community warm this winter. Hand me downs welcome!

We would be grateful if you could help us help our community by reaching a goal of collecting. Please send the items to school with your child where they can then take them to either the library or Room 4 in the basement of the school

Gloves
Hats
Scarfs
Coats (All Sizes)
Boots (All Sizes)
Snow Pants (All Sizes)

Toiletry Drive

Hi Parents and Guardians,

This fall our MacDowell Montessori High School Student Council is holding a drive for toiletries from November 15th through December 3rd. The items provided from the list will be given to students in our school community who are in need. It´ll make it easy for parents to save money and for students to have good hygiene. It will put smiles on the parents and children’s faces to have items that will make them feel fresh and rejuvenated. Please donate and be a hero!

Please send the items to school with your child where they can then take them to either the library or Room 4 in the basement of the school.

Items Needed:

Toothpaste
Toothbrush
Soap
Deodorant
Floss
Mouth wash
Hand sanitizer
Hand soap
Lotion
Tissue packs

Dear Students and Families,

Thank you to everyone that has participated in the $100 incentive for students who vaccinate against COVID-19. We want to continue encouraging eligible students who have received the COVID-19 vaccine to submit their information by following the instructions below.

The district has information about incentive eligibility, receiving the vaccine, and applying for the incentive on the Student COVID-19 Vaccine Incentive webpage. The incentive will be a $100 rewards card mailed to each student at the address listed in Infinite Campus/Parent Portal. Proof of vaccination will be determined by the information listed in the Wisconsin Immunization Registry (WIR).

How do families apply for the incentive?

To apply for the student incentive, a family member can access the online application at mpsmke.com/studentvax. You will need your student’s MPS login information, which is the Student ID (7-digit number) and password. More information can be found in the application. The application is due by 11:59 P.M. on November 15, 2021. The application can be filled out by smartphone.

What does the application include?

Verify that the student’s contact information is correct. If contact information is not correct, please complete the application, then contact your child’s school to update your information before November 15.
Give consent to MPS to verify your child’s COVID-19 vaccination status through the Wisconsin Immunization Registry (WIR).
Give consent to MPS to share your contact information with a third-party partner organization to issue the incentive.

Who is eligible to receive the $100 vaccine incentive?

To be eligible, students must:

- Be 12 years of age or older
- Be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by November 1, 2021
- Complete the online application by November 15, 2021
- Attend any MPS school, including any MPS charter school or partnership school
Note that children ages 12 to 17 are ONLY eligible for the Pfizer vaccine, which requires two doses at least 21 days apart.

Thank you for working to make all of our school communities healthy and safe.

Milwaukee Public Schools

MPS Hosts Vaccine Clinics at 12 Schools

COVID-19 Vaccine Approved for Children Ages 5 to 11

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have approved the COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 to 11. A pediatrician or health care provider is the best source for answers to questions about the vaccine.

MPS will host COVID-19 vaccine clinics to help families access the vaccine. Appointments are not needed. See the complete schedule by downloading a flyer.

A signed consent form is needed for children to receive the vaccine.

Download the vaccine consent form in Spanish.

To view a list of vaccine clinics across the city, including locations with Saturday hours, visit the Milwaukee Health Department COVID-19 webpage.

For more information about vaccines, visit the Wisconsin Department of Health Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Safe Practices Help Avoid Illness: As cold and flu season approaches and COVID-19 remains, following healthy practices to avoid becoming sick.

Wear a face mask in public, even if you are vaccinated.
Maintain 3 feet of physical distance.
Wash hands frequently, especially when returning home.
Get the flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine if you are eligible.

Stay Home When Sick

Check your child every morning for signs of illness. Keep them home if symptoms are present, and contact a health care provider to ask about testing.

ONE of the following symptoms

Cough
Shortness of breath/difficulty breathing
New loss of taste or smell

TWO or more symptoms

Fever of 100.4° F or above
Chills
Sore throat
Muscle or body aches
New onset of headache
Congestion or runny nose
Fatigue
Diarrhea
Nausea or vomiting

Download helpful guidelines for sick children.

BOX TOPS FOR EDUCATION

One of the ways that you can help us earn money for our school is through Box Tops. The traditional clipped Box Tops have been phased out and are not found on as many items, however there is a Box Tops app families can use to scan your store receipt, find participating products and instantly add cash to our school’s earnings online. For information on participating products please see this list: Box Tops Products

HS ATHLETICS

Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) has partnered with Concentra to offer sports physicals for MPS high school athletes. Please see below for guidance to access this opportunity.

The following are a few of the Concentra Clinics that will provide sports physicals for student athletes:

Downtown Milwaukee: 215 N. 35th Street (414)931-7600
Layton Square: 875 W. Layton Avenue (414)489-3800
Airport Milwaukee: 5007 S. Howell Avenue (414)483-7777
Park Place: 11414 W. Park Place (414)359-0800

Or visit www.concentra.com to find the nearest location, center phone number and any changes in hours as any will accommodate our needs for service.

Clinics are open Monday – Friday from 8:00am-5:00pm. The last physical of the day will be conducted no later than 4:15pm.

Student athletes should call ahead and indicate they need an MPS sports physical and inquire as to the best time to visit the clinic.
Students 17 years or younger, must be accompanied by their parent or guardian.
Students must bring their school ID card and their signed sports physical form.
Students under the age of 18 will be required to have their parent or guardian sign Concentra’s Minor Consent Form prior to taking their physical.
There is no cost to student athletes for this service. Concentra will bill Milwaukee Public Schools and costs will be paid from a central account.
Once a student’s physical is complete, they are responsible for loading the signed Sports Physical form to their account in rSchool.
Concentra will also retain an electronic record of the student’s visit.

RESOURCES

How to Get Your Child to LISTEN!

One of the most common questions from parents is: How can I get my kid to LISTEN to me? Here are 2 great guides:

https://www.ahaparenting.com/read/How-get-kid-listen

https://www.positiveparentingsolutions.com/parenting/get-kids-to-listen

Resource Highlight: Violence Prevention Program Websites:

The Violence Prevention Program has a public website with information geared toward families. Through this website, families can gather more information on topics such as bullying prevention, mental health and wellness, Second Step, social and emotional learning (SEL), and trauma. The website link can be accessed here: https://mps.milwaukee.k12.wi.us/en/Families/Family-Services/SEL-Supports.htm

Additionally, additional SEL resources can be found on the VP SEL Google site: https://sites.google.com/milwaukee.k12.wi.us/mpssel/home

Hope & Healing November Event Calendar: The Hope & Healing Team is excited to share the following events for November! Below are the details for online workshops offered by Sojourner & community organizations. Please call 414-810-1545 for more information or view upcoming events HERE

IMPORTANT DATES – Please mark your calendars

NO SCHOOL MONDAY, November 15th (Record Day)

NO SCHOOL November 24-26th (Thanksgiving Break)

SEC Meeting (virtual)
November 17th
5:00-5:30 PM
Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/jci-idna-dvt

PTO
November 17th
5:30-6:30 PM
Zoom link is HERE

REMINDERS

EXTENDED LEARNING OPPORTUNITY – Register now! Seats fill up fast!

The Extended Learning Opportunities Office is sponsoring a select number of seats in a November 24th non-school day learning adventure so MPS students can attend free of cost. Families are responsible for pick-up and drop-off, and students must bring a bag lunch. Confirmation regarding the student’s enrollment will be sent to families via email.
Space is limited, and these free adventures usually fill up quickly.

Urban Ecology Center November Outdoor Adventure
Grades: 1-6
Non-school day date: Wednesday, November 24, 2021 • 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Riverside Park Urban Ecology Center, 1500 E. Park Pl., Milwaukee, WI Description: Students will love building forts and playing outdoor games all while learning how animals and plants prepare for our long Wisconsin winters.
Registration link: (English) https://forms.gle/y7xH2bW15NafXG346

(Spanish) https://forms.gle/RJmnM9PpbavvRtPq9

For additional questions or information, contact Extended Learning Opportunities at 414-475-8238 or elo@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

HS WINTER SPORTS REGISTRATION DEADLINE EXTENDED
REGISTER BEFORE NOVEMBER 22ND.
Register for Winter: Cheer, Boys Basketball, Girls Basketball, Boys Swim, & Wrestling.
Insurance and a physical are required to be uploaded with your registration.
Physical forms can be found on the registration website, or paper copies are located in the main office. Registration must be complete and approved to begin practice!
Registration is completely online and can be accessed by the following link:

https://mpsathletics-ar.rschooltoday.com/home

PTO UN-FUNDRAISER: If you meant to sell popcorn during the PTO fundraiser but didn’t get to it, please consider contributing to the PTO Un-fundraiser. 100% of funds donated will go directly to the PTO. The office will take checks payable to ‘MacDowell PTO’ with the Memo line ‘Un-fundraiser’. Thank you in advance for all of your continued support and help in making this fundraiser a success! ~ MacDowell PTO

REMINDER: NEWSLETTER OPT OUT. Are you already reading our newsletter via email or text? Any family can choose to opt out of the paper newsletter if they wish. Please complete the form below to opt-out, or if you have multiple MacDowell students – tell us who should get the paper newsletter. https://forms.gle/GKyCUQaTRsxQpv9y7

REMINDER: THE PARENT LIBRARY!

QUICK LINKS:

Parent/Student Handbook On Rights, Responsibilities, And Discipline

Guideline for Sick Children

School Newsletter Vol. 12

November 8, 2021 By sanfelax

BRRRR! It’s getting COLD! Please make sure that your child has warm clothing, including jacket, hats, mittens for recess. K5 and all elementary classes go outside every day unless the temperature is below 11 degrees.

Please also check your child’s spare clothing and replace the items with warmer weather attire. Label items, especially sweatshirts, water bottles and jackets, so that they can be returned to their owner if need be. Thank you.

We want YOUR input! The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction is writing the Six-year Plan for Wisconsin’s students served by IEPs. But, it’s everybody’s plan, and we’re looking for input from YOU. DPI is asking you for feedback on seven questions, which will take about ten minutes. Please feel free to add any ideas, connections to projects or people who are doing a good job, or anything else you want WDPI staff to know. Please complete this online survey before December 1, 2021.

Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and ideas about improving outcomes for Wisconsin students with IEPs.

SURVEY LINK: https://tinyurl.com/e6mff9wt

WINTER SPORTS 1ST-8TH GRADE UPDATE: Paperwork has gone home this week Thursday to all students who expressed an interest in joining a team. Teams will be filled by LOTTERY. If your student did not bring home a form to register, please contact Torre Johnson to request a form. Teachers will also have extra forms available. Teams we have for Winter sports: 1st through 3rd Grade Co-Ed Basketball, 4th and 5th Grade Co-Ed Basketball, 6th through 8th Grade Co-Ed Volleyball, 6th through 8th grade boys Basketball. *Please contact Torre Johnson if you have any questions: johns119@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

EXTENDED LEARNING OPPORTUNITY – Register now! Seats fill up fast!

For additional questions or information, contact Extended Learning Opportunities at 414-475-8238 or elo@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

Upcoming Book Fair – SAVE THE DATE!
MacDowell will host our second annual Virtual Book Fair from Nov. 11- Nov. 21

Our book fair will be through Rainbow Booksellers, a wonderful local children’s bookstore, who have hosted our physical book fairs in the past. Rainbow Booksellers is located just off of Vliet and 57th street. Our families will be able to buy books from this specific sale online and books will be delivered to MacDowell approximately 2 weeks later. Parent Coordinator Claudine will be in touch to work out delivery of items, and will be mindful that some items might be gifts. Look out for our Virtual Book Fair link soon!
Rainbow Booksellers generously gives MacDowell 25% of all sales.

COGAT SCREENER – 2nd and 3rd grade
Testing date: Wednesday, November 10th
The Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) assesses students’ abilities in reasoning and problem solving using verbal, quantitative, and nonverbal tests. It is used to help identify students for possible eligibility for gifted and talented programs and is used as a screener for all 2nd grade students.

Due to virtual instruction , CogAT was not administered to 2nd grade students in the fall of 2020. During the 2021-2022 school year, both 2nd and 3rd grade students will be screened using CogAT to ensure all MPS students have an opportunity to participate in the assessment.

All students are screened using a shortened version of the test, which includes three 10-15 minute subtests. Select students are then identified to complete the remaining portions of the CogAT (post screener) based on their screener score. These results are reviewed by district members of the Advanced Academic Program and information is shared with parents of students meeting the qualifications for Gifted and Talented Services.

TOYS FOR TOTS
When: Registration dates are Nov. 1st – Dec. 1st

Where to Register:

Distribution Center – 5880 N. 60th (414) 464-2971

Monday – Wednesday 9 AM until 3 PM; walk in only

Citadel Corps – 4129 W. Villard Avenue (414) 463-3300
- Mondays 9 AM until Noon and 1 PM until 4 PM; call for an appointment
- Tuesdays 1 PM until 4 PM; call for an appointment
- Thursdays 12:30 PM until 3 PM; call for an appointment
- AND Wednesday, December 1st only will be walk in only; 9 AM until Noon
Coldspring Corps – 2900 W. Coldspring Road (414) 763-9797
- Online preregistration beginning November 1st.
- Please call for appointment to complete the process.
West Corps – 1645 N. 25th Street (414) 342-9191
- Mondays through Thursdays 10 AM until Noon; 1PM until 3 PM

What ages of children can receive toys? Children born on or after January 1, 2009 (ages 0 – 12) are eligible to receive toys.

What do I need to bring with me to register for toys? To register children, parents or guardians as Head of Household must provide proof of their own identity, and their residence/address, and proof of the birthdate(s) of their child(ren).

Can I bring my children with me to register for toys?

No. Please do not bring children with you.

For more information: https://tinyurl.com/ya34ykx8

Chromebooks for Students: Students who qualify can receive a Chromebook and/or hotspot from MPS for use at home to complete homework, fill out college applications, and more. Chromebooks are for students to keep and do not need to be returned. This equipment is available thanks to a grant from the federal Emergency Connectivity Fund. These funds are available only for students who would lack access to Chromebooks and/or Internet hotspots in their homes if MPS did not provide them. Devices will be available during the second semester. Families can fill out an online form for each student in the household at https://mpsmke.com/techecf through Wednesday, November 24, 2021.

THE SALVATION ARMY COAT DISTRIBUTION
By Appointment Only
Call (414) 464-2940

Distribution Dates – please note times below:

November 4th, 5th & 6th
November 11 & 12
November 18 & 19

Distribution will take place between 9 a.m. – noon and 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. only on the dates listed above. Noon – 1 p.m. is reserved for restocking and sanitization

IMPORTANT DATES – Please mark your calendars

DAC Meeting
November 4
6:00 – 7:30 PM
The District Advisory Council (DAC) meets monthly to learn about and advise on district strategies and programs impacting families, particularly related to Title I.
This will be a virtual meeting. Link to join the meeting is HERE

Picture Retake day
Tuesday, November 9th

Retake day is for students who were absent on photo day, and for any student who is retaking their photo. If families ordered a picture package before picture day and did not like it, their student needs to bring the picture package back on retake day and take a new picture.
Please make sure your child’s teacher is informed you wish to retake the photo.

SEC Meeting (virtual)
November 17th
5:00-5:30 PM
Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/jci-idna-dvt

PTO
November 17th
5:30-6:30 PM
Zoom link is HERE

NO SCHOOL MONDAY, November 15th (Record Day)

REMINDERS

HS BASKETBALL ANNOUNCER NEEDED!

Have you ever dreamed of being a sports announcer? Now is your chance to live out that dream! Juneau Boys Basketball is in need of an announcer for home games this winter season. It is a paid position, and the announcer would be responsible for announcing 11 varsity games. Game dates are as follows:

November 23 and 30
December 9 and 14
January 5, 18, and 25
February 11, 18, 23, and 25

Please reach out to Ms. Schenk if you are interested in this opportunity so that we can get you hired. If you know of any parents, alumni, or high school students who would be interested, please share this information with them as well. Thank you! Ms. Schenk can be reached at 414-935-1438 and via email: schenkao@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

-Danceworks flyer HERE

-Click HERE to Register

HS WINTER SPORTS REGISTRATION DEADLINE EXTENDED

REGISTER BEFORE NOVEMBER 22ND.
Register for Winter: Cheer, Boys Basketball, Girls Basketball, Boys Swim, & Wrestling.
Insurance and a physical are required to be uploaded with your registration.
Physical forms can be found on the registration website, or paper copies are located in the main office. Registration must be complete and approved to begin practice!
Registration is completely online and can be accessed by the following link:

https://mpsathletics-ar.rschooltoday.com/home

Families should send a text message to: 67587 to connect to the new system.
In the message, send Y or YES to ensure that you continue to receive important texts from your school and district.

REMINDER: THE PARENT LIBRARY!

REMINDER: YEARBOOKS:

If you still wish to purchase a K3-6th grade yearbook from last school year, you can do so through the office, or send payment with your child. Yearbooks are $10 each, payable in cash (exact change) or check made out to MacDowell Montessori.

QUICK LINKS:

School Newsletter Vol. 11

October 29, 2021 By sanfelax

EVENT THIS WEEK ~ MAKER’S MARKET OCT 29TH

The 7th and 8th graders are hosting a Maker’s Market on Friday October 29! We will be selling plants, bracelets, and resin jewelry trays and keychains. Items will range from $2-$15. This Sale is CASH ONLY.

We will be set up outside along the 64th street line 11-11:30 and 3:00-3:30

VACCINE INCENTIVE DEADLINE: To encourage vaccination, Milwaukee Public Schools is offering an incentive to students age 12 years and older who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by November 1, 2021. The incentive will be provided as a $100 rewards card that can be used as cash. To receive the rewards card, parents/guardians must complete an application and provide proof of full vaccination no later than November 15, 2021.

The Student COVID-19 Vaccine Incentive webpage provides information about eligibility, receiving the vaccine, and applying for the incentive.

CITY OF MILWAUKEE HEALTH DEPARTMENT VACCINE INCENTIVE – Milwaukee residents age 12 and older who receive their second COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a $25 incentive! Learn more at Covid-19 Vaccine

A NOTE FROM PRINCIPAL CORONA
HALLOWEEN AT MACDOWELL: We understand that Halloween is an exciting time for the children and we hope that there will be many ways that they celebrate the holiday with their family at home. At MacDowell we do not have Halloween celebrations in the classroom; this is so that we can keep the school day consistent and free from distraction for all of our students and support the students’ learning and focus while they are at school. Please note: Children are not to come to school with candy or arrive dressed in Halloween costume.
Thank you for your understanding.
Principal Corona

PEOPLE PROGRAM PRESS RELEASE

Congratulations to our 9th-grade students who were accepted into the PEOPLE Program! The PEOPLE Program is a precollege pipeline scholarship program through UW Madison. This program prepares students to be a viable college candidate through a variety of supports throughout high school, such as tutoring, practice ACT exams, character development activities, assistance with completing college applications, financial aid and scholarship forms, and visits to UW System campuses.

There were 100 PEOPLE Program seats opened up for 9th Graders in the City of Milwaukee this year, and 14 MacDowell 9th Graders were accepted! More than 20% of our 9th grade class will benefit from this fantastic opportunity.

Students who successfully complete the PEOPLE program will receive a full scholarship to UW Madison. We are so proud of our newest PEOPLE Program students!

Reading Corner – Library Updates

Contact Ms. Raasch via email with any questions: RAASCHTL@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

FINAL NOTICE TO SUBMIT LIBRARY PERMISSION FORMS

Beginning Monday, November 1st, students that have not returned their library permission form will no longer be able to check out new books from the library. Additional copies are in Thursday folders for 5K through 3rd-grade students who haven’t submitted yet. Announcements were made in Upper Elementary classrooms about this deadline and extra copies were made available.

Taking responsibility for this form is an important step in becoming a responsible and reliable patron of the library; it’s like signing up for a library card at a public library. Thank you for supporting your student on their reading journey by helping them return this form!

WINTER SPORTS 1ST-8TH GRADE UPDATE: We have coaches and have registered teams for the following Winter Sports:

1st through 3rd Grade Co-Ed Basketball
4th and 5th Grade Co-Ed Basketball
6th through 8th Grade Co-Ed Volleyball

→ → STILL IN NEED OF A COACH FOR 6th through 8th grade boys Basketball

Please contact Torre Johnson if you are interested in coaching our middle school boys basketball team: johns119@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

Sports registration forms will go home next week, November 4th. If your student does not bring a form home next week to register, please contact Torre Johnson to request a form. Teachers will also have extra forms available.

HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETICS REGISTRATION EVENT
Thursday, November 4
4:00-6:00 PM
Front door, safety desk
Bring signed physical, insurance card, $25 athletic fee, family/doctor/student information.

MUSIC CLASSES
MPS will offer a variety of lessons for students who want to learn piano, ukulele, woodwinds, brass and more! Classes will run Jan 29 to April 30th and are taught at Hamilton High School and Milwaukee Marshall High School. Classes fill quickly! Register by Dec. 10th at mkerec.net

PTO FUNDRAISER ENDS SOON: Help the PTO raise money for uniforms for our brand new High School Drumline!. The PTO is also raising funds for the startup costs for our high school students’ T-shirt Design Studio Occupation. Each seller must register at www.SupportMyFundraiser.org

Our GROUP ID # is 119180.
PDF of How to Register HERE

PTO fundraiser dates: NOW – Nov 1st

PTO UN-FUNDRAISER: If you want to support the PTO but do not want to sell popcorn please consider contributing to the PTO Un-fundraiser. 100% of funds donated will go directly to the PTO. Please make checks payable to ‘MacDowell PTO’ with the Memo line ‘Un-fundraiser’. Thank you in advance for all of your continued support and help in making this fundraiser a success! ~ MacDowell PTO

MARQUETTE UPWARD BOUND VIRTUAL INFO SESSION
Saturday, December 11th at 10 AM (virtual meeting)
Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math and Science are recruiting all CURRENT 8th and 9th graders interested in going to college. This precollege program is free for students who qualify. Please come out to the information session to learn more about this exciting opportunity!
Zoom meeting link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82804342071#success

IMPORTANT DATES – Please mark your calendars

MAC (Montessori Advisory Committee) Meeting
November 1 from 5:30 – 6:30 PM (virtual)
The Montessori Advisory Committee (MAC) needs your thoughts, ideas, and voice. Join us to help strengthen Montessori education in Milwaukee. Be part of a committee working to make MPS a global leader in Montessori practice. Everyone is welcome at all meetings. Please visit the Zoom link HERE to register.

Picture Retake day
Tuesday, November 9th

Retake day is for students who were absent on photo day, and for any student who is retaking their photo. If families ordered a picture package before picture day and did not like it, their student needs to bring the picture package back on retake day and take a new picture.
Please make sure your child’s teacher is informed you wish to retake the photo.

NO SCHOOL MONDAY, November 15th (Record Day)

REMINDERS

Families should send a text message to: 67587 to connect to the new system.
In the message, send Y or YES to ensure that you continue to receive important texts from your school and district.

REMINDER: NEWSLETTER OPT-OUT. Are you already reading our newsletter via email or text? Any family can choose to opt out of the paper newsletter if they wish. Please complete the form below to opt-out, or if you have multiple MacDowell students – tell us who should get the paper newsletter. https://forms.gle/GKyCUQaTRsxQpv9y7

REMINDER: THE PARENT LIBRARY!

REMINDER: YEARBOOKS:

QUICK LINKS:

Parent/Student Handbook On Rights, Responsibilities, And Discipline

School Newsletter Vol. 10

October 26, 2021 By sanfelax

Event OCT 29th

The 7th and 8th graders are hosting a Maker’s Market on Friday, October 29! We will be selling plants, bracelets, and resin jewelry trays and keychains. Items will range from $2-$15. This Sale is CASH ONLY.

We will be set up outside along the 64th street line 11-11:30 and 3:00-3:30

PICTURE PACKAGES & PROOFS WILL BE SENT HOME TODAY AND EARLY NEXT WEEK

Picture Retake Day, Tuesday, November 9th
Retake day is for students who were absent on photo day, and for any student who is retaking their photo. If families ordered a picture package before picture day and did not like it, their student needs to bring the picture package back on retake day and take a new picture. Another picture package will be sent to school.

PTO FUNDRAISER: PTO fundraiser dates: NOW – Nov 1st

Poppin Popcorn Forms went home in backpacks this week. Please consider fundraising to help us with our goals! We are raising money for uniforms for our brand new High School Drumline and for the startup costs for our high school students’ T-shirt Design Studio Occupation.

Here’s how to Fundraise:

Each seller must register at www.SupportMyFundraiser.org
Our GROUP ID # is 119180.
When Registering, complete the seller information, click the Next button and then start sharing to social media, friends and family!
PDF of How to Register HERE

PTO fundraiser dates: NOW – Nov 1st

LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITY –

Family Advisory Board Information Session
Oct 28, 2021 06:00 PM
The Milwaukee Office of Early Childhood initiatives is looking for individuals who have an interest in what’s best for children prenatally to age 3. Come learn more about the Family Advisory Board and how you can participate.
Register here: https://tinyurl.com/vhhdut3z

NURSE SARAH has created a website where you can view information about staying healthy, download school forms and more. Check it out!

GOOGLE WEBSITE: https://tinyurl.com/MacNurseSarah

HS BASKETBALL ANNOUNCER NEEDED!

November 23 and 30
December 9 and 14
January 5, 18, and 25
February 11, 18, 23, and 25

IMPORTANT DATES – Please mark your calendars

Picture Retake day
Tuesday, November 9th

NO SCHOOL MONDAY, November 15th (Record Day)

REMINDERS

REMINDER: THE PARENT LIBRARY!

-Danceworks flyer HERE

-Click HERE to Register

QUICK LINKS:

Parent/Student Handbook On Rights, Responsibilities, And Discipline

MPS School Calendar
Lunch Menu
Parent/Student Handbook On Rights, Responsibilities, And Discipline
MPS Family Guide

School Newsletter Vol. 9

October 15, 2021 By sanfelax

Have You Signed Up To Meet With Your Child’s Teacher Yet?

→ PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES ARE NEXT WEEK!

Conference sign-up is first-come, first served.
Conferences are VIRTUAL, through Google Meet
Questions? Need help with your child’s schedule or need help signing up? Please contact Parent Coordinator Claudine at nuetzeca@milwaukee.k12.wi.us or 414-935-1339.

→ Please sign up for Conferences at the link HERE

CHECK YOUR FOLDERS (k3-6TH GRADE): Please remember to check your child’s backpack on Thursday for important school work and messages from the school/teacher.

REMINDER – Picture Day Packages and Proof Sheets are coming. We will also have yearbooks for sale in the spring.

If families did not order a photo package prior to picture day, they will receive a proof sheet with customized codes so that they can order photos online.
Families will be able to see the image on this proof sheet and will have until the end of this year to order at https://my.lifetouch.com/. This proof sheet will be in Thursday folders / delivered to 7-12 students in 1-2 weeks.
Picture packages will go home with students in 1-2 weeks.
Retake day is for students who were absent on photo day, and for any student who is retaking their photo. If families ordered a picture package before picture day and did not like it, their student needs to bring the picture package back on retake day and take a new picture. Another picture package will be sent to school.

Please Note: Picture Retake day is scheduled for 11/9/21.

NEWSLETTER OPT-OUT. (K3-6th GRADE) Are you already reading our newsletter via email or text? If so, consider opting out of the paper newsletter in the Thursday Folder. Please complete the form below to opt-out, or if you have multiple MacDowell students – tell us which student should get the paper newsletter each week! https://forms.gle/GKyCUQaTRsxQpv9y7

MPS is offering $100 for students who are fully vaccinated by November 1, 2021.
Milwaukee Public Schools has prepared information and an application to help families apply for a $100 incentive for students. Children age 12 and older who receive two doses of Pfizer vaccine are eligible. You can read more HERE.

BIG BROTHER BIG SISTER MENTOR 2.0: (STUDENTS GR. 9-11) The mentor2.0 program provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee (BBBS) is a proven, technology-enriched, mentoring program for high school students. The goal of mentor2.0 is for students to develop a relationship with a caring adult that can provide additional guidance and support as the student completes high school and moves on to the next phase of their lives. Students can enroll in the program at any time in 9-11th grade, with most matches being made in the Fall.
-For more information, please visit: https://tinyurl.com/4uzwmcfr
-To enroll in the program: https://bbbs.tfaforms.net/f/youthenrollment-m20-0405

CONGRATS TO OUR MACDOWELL SENIOR BRYAH LEWIS, WHO IS THE MPS STUDENT-ATHLETE OF THE WEEK!

UPCOMING TRIPLE P – POSITIVE PARENTING PROGRAM – CLASSES. Register today! Classes include topics such as behavior at school, self-esteem and more. Each event will have a drawing at the end for one $50 Amazon gift card!
Register and see upcoming classes here: https://surveymonkey.com/r/MPStriplep

ANNOUNCING THE PARENT LIBRARY! We have a wide variety of books and audiobooks on the topic of parenting that guardians may check out if they wish. Please see the list below and touch base with Ms. Claudine if you are interested in a copy. Books/audiobooks would be checked out under the student’s name and could be delivered through the student or picked up from the main office. Please see our Parent Library list with links to descriptions HERE.

PTO FUNDRAISER: Help the PTO raise money for uniforms for our brand new High School Drumline!. The PTO is also raising funds for the startup costs for our high school students’ T-shirt Design Studio Occupation. Fundraiser dates will be announced soon.

TRAVEL THE WORLD ON YOUR DAYS OFF SCHOOL: GRADES K5-5TH | 9AM-4PM AT DANCEWORKS. Each Danceworks School Day Off Workshop will explore a different country of the world. Discover traditions, music, and the day to day life of children thousands of miles away. Gain insight and discover similarities between other cultures and peoples. Registration for all workshops will close one week before the workshop date. Space is limited – it’s never too early to register! Masks will be required to be worn by all students regardless of vaccination status. Scholarships available! Applications can be found on their website.
-Danceworks flyer HERE
-Click HERE to Register

Hope & Healing Event Calendar
The Hope & Healing Team is excited to share the following events for October! Below are the details for online workshops offered by Sojourner & community organizations. Please call 414-810-1545 for more information.
Upcoming events include, but are not limited to Latinx Diversity Festival, dance classes, and more. For more information please see this LINK

IMPORTANT DATES – Please mark your calendars

Parent-Teacher Conferences
Monday, October 18 from 3:45 PM to 7:30 PM
Wednesday, October 20 from 3:45 PM to 7:30 PM

NO SCHOOL OCTOBER 22ND & OCTOBER 25TH

Picture Retake Day
Tuesday, November 9th

REMINDERS

ELEMENTARY COACHES NEEDED! Winter Elementary Sports Team Registration is happening soon! We are hoping to form several sports teams for Winter Athletics, but we need coaches to make it happen! Please consider volunteering your time. See below for details. Coaches are paid through Milwaukee Recreation. We will notify parents which teams we have and the registration procedure, based on the teams that we are able to form. Please contact Torre Johnson if you are interested or have any questions. johns119@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

-Games are held on Saturdays, practice is 1 day a week minimum, practice ideally begins shortly after school dismissal time.

BASKETBALL COACHES and ASSISTANTS needed! The teams we are wishing to form are:

1st through 3rd Co-Ed Basketball
4th and 5th Co-Ed Basketball
6th through 8th grade Co-Ed Basketball

HS ATHLETICS REGISTRATION: Register for WINTER SPORTS NOW. Register for Winter: Cheer, Boys Basketball, Girls Basketball, Boys Swim, & Wrestling.
Insurance and a physical are required to be uploaded with your registration.
Physical forms can be found on the registration website, or paper copies are located in the main office. Registration must be complete and approved to begin practice!

Registration is completely online and can be accessed by the following link:
https://mpsathletics-ar.rschooltoday.com/home
See HS Athletics Flyer HERE

QUICK LINKS:

School Newsletter Vol. 8

October 8, 2021 By sanfelax

PICTURE DAY FOLLOW UP: If families did not order a photo package prior to picture day, they will receive a proof sheet with customized codes to order online at https://my.lifetouch.com/. Families will be able to see the image on this proof sheet and will have until the end of this year to order. All proofs will be sent when picture packages are sent to school in about 2-3 weeks.

Please Note: Picture Retake day is scheduled for 11/9/21.

→ PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCE SIGN-UP LINKS ARE NOW LIVE!

→ Please sign up at the link HERE

COACHES NEEDED!

We are hoping to form several sports teams for Winter Athletics, but we need coaches to make it happen! Please consider volunteering your time. See below for details. Coaches are paid through Milwaukee Recreation. Please contact Torre Johnson if you are interested or have any questions. johns119@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

-Games are held on Saturdays, practice is 1 day a week minimum, practice ideally begins shortly after school dismissal time.

BASKETBALL COACHES and ASSISTANTS needed! The teams we are wishing to form are:

1st through 3rd Co-Ed Basketball
4th and 5th Co-Ed Basketball
6th through 8th grade Co-Ed Basketball

VOLLEYBALL COACH and ASSISTANT needed!

6th-8th Grade Co-Ed Volleyball

We will notify parents which teams we have and the registration procedure, based on the teams that we are able to form.

PTO FUNDRAISER IS COMING SOON! Please look for flyers in next week’s Thursday folder.

Reading Corner – Library Updates

Contact Ms. Raasch via email with any questions: RAASCHTL@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

This week the 5K students will start coming to the library with their teachers for an Orientation Tour. I will teach them about the library process and where to find books at their level. All students from 5K through 6th grade will have completed Orientation Tours by the end of next week. The tours have increased excitement about the library and interest in books and our overall circulation statistics are growing by the week!

We are still missing a LOT of books from the library; mostly books that were checked out pre-pandemic and never returned because the school closed. Please take a look around your home for books that belong to MacDowell library; they will have a labeled barcode and spine label. There are no fines for overdue books – we just want to get them back into circulation. Thank you to all the students and families that have found books and returned them so far!

WELCOME POSTER

Our middle school students made this poster in the first week of school. The poster says ‘You Hold the Future of the World in Your Hands.” The students wanted to make something to be bright and welcoming to the little kids who get dropped off in the morning, some who have not been in our school building before. It is displayed in the entrance stairwell on the 64th street side. Each hand is decorated with kind words, encouragement, or pictures that are comforting as we welcome our students to our school.

SPARE CLOTHING: As the season has turned cooler, please remember to check your child’s spare clothing and replace the items with warmer weather attire. Please also remember to label items, especially sweatshirts and jackets, so that they can be returned to their owner if need be. Thank you.

IMPORTANT DATES – Please mark your calendars

8th Grade On Demand Writing
All grade 8 students will participate in the district’s on-demand writing activity. MacDowell will assign the writing assessment to students on Wednesday, October 20. This activity will provide teachers with a writing sample and allow for equitable access to apply to a select criteria high school during early admissions.

The on-demand essay activity is a text-dependent analysis, computer-based activity, and is expected to be completed in one sitting.
Once students log into the activity, a prompt will be randomly generated, and students will have two hours to complete their response.
Students with disabilities and English learners will sign in using a special assignment code that removes the timer and allows for unlimited time to complete their essay.
Additionally, all prompts are translated into Spanish and students can respond in Spanish.

DAC Meeting
October 7
6:00 – 7:30 PM
The District Advisory Council (DAC) meets monthly to learn about and advise on district strategies and programs impacting families, particularly related to Title I.
This will be a virtual meeting. Link to join the meeting is HERE

SEC Meeting (virtual)
Wednesday, October 13th
5:00—5:30 PM
This will be a virtual meeting.
Google Meet joining info: https://meet.google.com/pne-tcpw-ubz

Annual Title 1 Meeting (virtual)
Come learn about what is a Title I Schoolwide Program!
We will also discuss our school’s goals and School-Parent Compact and you will have an opportunity to share your feedback. All families are encouraged to attend.
Wednesday, October 13th
5:30 PM
This will be a virtual meeting.
Google Meet joining info: https://meet.google.com/pne-tcpw-ubz

PTO Meeting (virtual) Wednesday, October 13th
6 PM
This will be a virtual meeting.
Google Meet joining info: https://meet.google.com/pne-tcpw-ubz

Parent-Teacher Conferences
Monday, October 18 from 3:45PM to 7:30PM
Wednesday, October 20 from 3:45PM to 7:30PM
NO SCHOOL OCTOBER 22ND & OCTOBER 25TH

REMINDERS

MPS Vaccine Mandate UPDATE:
The Milwaukee Board of School Directors has approved a COVID-19 vaccination requirement for all staff. Religious and medical accommodations will be allowed, but exempt individuals will be required to take part in COVID-19 testing twice per week. Employees will need to become fully vaccinated by November 1, 2021.
The Board also approved an incentive of $100 for MPS students age 12 and older who become fully vaccinated by November 1. Information will be coming soon. Families should take note that children must receive BOTH doses of the Pfizer vaccine by November 1, 2021, in order to be eligible. The second dose of Pfizer vaccine must be given at least 21 days after the first dose, so children should receive their first Pfizer dose no later than October 8, 2021.

REMINDER: VOLUNTEER for MacDowell: If you are interested in volunteering or serving on one of our leadership committees, let’s talk! Volunteer opportunities include: library assistants, literacy and math tutors, general assistants (photocopying, laminating materials), coaches, gardeners, field trip chaperones, and event volunteers. If you are able to help our community in any way, please fill out the information on my Google Form here: https://tinyurl.com/s9c2ske7
REMINDER: YEARBOOKS: If you still wish to purchase a K3-6th grade yearbook from last school year, you can do so through the office, or send payment with your child. Yearbooks are $10 each, payable in cash (exact change) or check made out to MacDowell Montessori.
QUICK LINKS:

Parent/Student Handbook On Rights, Responsibilities, And Discipline

https://mpsathletics-ar.rschooltoday.com/home

School Newsletter Vol. 7

October 1, 2021 By sanfelax

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCE SIGN-UP LINKS ARE NOW LIVE!

→ Please sign up HERE

PICTURE DAY – OCTOBER 1ST: Order forms have already been sent home, and you can also order online. All students will have their photos taken, even if they do not order a picture package. Our School ID for ordering online at mylifetouch.com is EVT4QXCD9

******** We will have a Make-Up Photo Day for those students not in attendance this Friday. We will publish that date once we have it confirmed.

CONGRATS TO OUR MACDOWELL SENIOR CORAN SHAW, WHO IS THE MPS STUDENT-ATHLETE OF THE WEEK!

Reading Corner – Library Updates

Contact Ms. Raasch via email with any questions: RAASCHTL@milwaukee.k12.wi.us
Watch for the Library Permission Form. Please review it with your child before signing and returning to your child’s teacher by next week, Weds. Oct. 6.
Grades 1-6 are beginning to come to the library this week for Orientation Tours. 5K students will be invited to start towards the end of next week. Students will learn the procedures for visiting the library, review the Library Permission Form, and get a tour of where they can browse for books!
We encourage MacDowell families to carve out at least 15-20 minutes daily to read aloud to their children, and/or alongside them, and/or support independent reading habits, depending on the age of your child.

The Board also approved an incentive of $100 for MPS students age 12 and older who become fully vaccinated by November 1. Information will be coming soon. Families should take note that children must receive BOTH doses of the Pfizer vaccine by November 1, 2021, in order to be eligible. The second dose of Pfizer vaccine must be given at least 21 days after the first dose, so children should receive their first Pfizer dose no later than October 8, 2021.

Families will receive more details from the district in the coming weeks, including how to apply for the incentive, when and how the incentive will be distributed, and more. Read more about this important decision!
K3-6th grade Newsletter Reminder: In order to be more environmentally conscious of our paper usage, and because we have many families with siblings enrolled at MacDowell, we will begin sending only (1) paper newsletter home each week. Families with siblings in K3-6th grade will only receive (1) paper newsletter, and it will be given to the child you designate below. If you do not designate a child, we will send it home to your oldest K3-6th grade student.

In addition, any family who reads and receives the digital school newsletter via email and/or text may choose to opt out of the paper newsletter entirely if they wish.

*Please note: Thursday Folders of all students should still be checked weekly for class work and teacher communication.

Please complete this form if you have more than one K3-6th grade child who attends MacDowell, OR if you are requesting a paper opt out and we will make the adjustment as soon as possible. https://forms.gle/GKyCUQaTRsxQpv9y7

Thank you! ~Ms. Claudine

SAVE THE DATE – ANNUAL TITLE 1 MEETING

Come learn about what is a Title I Schoolwide Program!

Wednesday, October 13th at 5:30 PM (virtual)

We will also discuss our school’s goals and School-Parent Compact and you will have an opportunity to share your feedback.
All families are encouraged to attend.
EVENT FOR GIRLS IN GRADES 6-8

Girls in grades 6-8 are invited to Middle school night at Juneau Volleyball! It will be next Thursday, Oct. 7. Students interested in staying for the game are invited to come to Room 2 after school and hang out with the varsity team before they get ready to play against South Division. The match begins at 5.

Those who attend will share in some food, comradery, and then enjoy the varsity match. Any questions? Contact Mr. Jaeger jaegerjr@milwaukee.k12.wi.us
OPPORTUNITY FOR 9TH GRADE PARENTS:

Register here for Zoom Link: https://forms.gle/dSujSdAb4JAH3wmR6

HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETICS: Winter registration is completely online and can be accessed by the following link:

REMINDERS

EXTRACURRICULAR OPPORTUNITY (6th-12th Grade)

The Student Enrichment Program for Underrepresented Professions (StEP-UP) at MCW is designed to bring opportunities to middle, high school, and college students in the Milwaukee area who are interested in careers in medicine and the sciences.

The program aims to increase access and retention in medical and graduate school among students underrepresented in medicine and contribute to resolving health disparities in Wisconsin.

StEP-UP is a competitive program designed to provide opportunities to local middle school, high school and college students from disadvantaged backgrounds, underrepresented cultural and ethnic groups, and individuals with disabilities. Their target ethnic groups include African Americans, Mexican- Americans, Native Americans (American Indians and Alaska Natives), Hmong, and Mainland Puerto Rican.

Their academic year programs will start on Saturday, November 6, 2021. The application deadline is Friday, October 1st. Please see the flyer and apply here: mcw.edu/stepup

MPS Family Guide Assists Parents: MPS has created a Family Guide with important information about in-person learning. Get information about health and safety procedures, COVID-19 mitigation strategies, ways to keep students safe, and other important updates in schools. Check out the Family Guide today on the MPS Roadmap to Readiness website!

UPCOMING DATES – Please mark your calendars

FAFSA EVENTS

Do you have an 11th or 12th grade student that is planning to attend college?
Would you like information on the various ways to pay for college? If yes, come to one of our FAFSA Events below! *Please see the flyer with documents/information required to complete the FAFSA

FAFSA Event / Paying for College Overview
September 30th
5PM
(virtual)
https://meet.google.com/vei-vnbk-grf

*See FLYER HERE

FAFSA Work Session

*IN person, 12th Grade Parents only
October 7th
3:30-5PM
MacDowell College and Career Center.
*See Flyer HERE

PICTURE DAY
OCTOBER 1ST
Forms were sent home recently. All students will have their photo taken, even if they do not order photos.
Our School ID for ordering online at mylifetouch.com is EVT4QXCD9

MAC (Montessori Advisory Committee) Meeting
October 4 from 5:30 – 6:30 PM (virtual)
The Montessori Advisory Committee (MAC) needs your thoughts, ideas, and voice. Join us to help strengthen Montessori education in Milwaukee. Be part of a committee working to make MPS a global leader in Montessori practice.Everyone is welcome at all meetings. Please visit the MAC Zoom link to register. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

SEC Meeting (virtual)
Wednesday, October 13th
5:00—5:30 PM
This will be a virtual meeting.

Annual Title 1 Meeting (virtual)
Wednesday, October 13th
5:30 PM
This will be a virtual meeting.

PTO Meeting (virtual) Wednesday, October 13th
6 PM
This will be a virtual meeting

Parent-Teacher Conferences
Monday, October 18 from 3:45 PM to 7:30 PM
Wednesday, October 20 from 3:45 PM to 7:30 PM

NO SCHOOL OCTOBER 22ND & OCTOBER 25TH

OTHER REMINDERS

CROSSING GUARD POSITION: MacDowell needs a crossing guard! There is a shortage of crossing guards, and we have a vacancy at the corner of Mt. Vernon and 64th Street. Pay is $12.69 an hour and the hours are 7:20 – 8:10 am and 3:00 – 3:40 PM. Questions or want to apply? Call 414-935-7990. Please help spread the word!!!!

Families should send a text message to: 67587 to connect to the new system.
In the message, send Y or YES to ensure that you continue to receive important texts from your school and district.

REMINDER: VOLUNTEER for MacDowell: If you are interested in volunteering or serving on one of our leadership committees, let’s talk! Volunteer opportunities include: literacy and math tutors, general assistants (photocopying, laminating materials), coaches, gardeners, field trip chaperones, and event volunteers. If you are able to help our community in any way, please fill out the information on my Google Form here: https://tinyurl.com/s9c2ske7

REMINDER: YEARBOOKS:

QUICK LINKS:

Parent/Student Handbook On Rights, Responsibilities, And Discipline

https://forms.gle/GKyCUQaTRsxQpv9y7

School Newsletter Vol. 6

October 1, 2021 By sanfelax

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCE SIGN-UP LINKS ARE NOW LIVE!

→ Please sign up HERE

SENIOR DEADLINE: Attention parents of 12th Grade Students! It’s hard to believe but the time has come to start thinking about your student’s Senior Photos! We would like a Senior Photo, Baby Photo (If available), and Senior Quote from each graduating Senior by February 1st, 2022. The photos are needed for our yearbook, graduation slideshow, and hallway display. During graduation, we run a slideshow for each student displaying their Photo, Accolades, Baby Photo, and Senior Quote. In addition, in our school’s main hallway we will display the Senior Photos and Accolades of our 2022 graduates since they deserve to be celebrated! Please submit these items electronically at tinyurl.com/MacSeniorPhotos2022

CONGRATS TO OUR MACDOWELL SOPHOMORE ANNA HEFFERNAN, WHO IS THE MPS STUDENT-ATHLETE OF THE WEEK!

OPEN HOUSE IS THIS WEEK! (OUTDOORS) All are invited and welcome!

RSVP here: https://tinyurl.com/MacSocial21

Reading Corner – Library Updates

Contact Ms. Raasch via email with any questions: RAASCHTL@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

More students are accessing the library each week and it’s been wonderful to watch enthusiasm for books and reading increase each day with many students! Over the next couple of months, all classes will be invited to come to the library for a Library Orientation to ensure all students and teachers know how to access all the wonderful books we have and understand how to become responsible and reliable patrons of the MacDowell Library. Stay tuned for a permission form coming home in next week’s newsletter!

We encourage MacDowell families to carve out at least 15-20 minutes daily to read aloud to their children, and/or alongside them, and/or support independent reading habits, depending on the age of your child.

Montessori philosophy and teachers recommend that our youngest children (K3-K5) are read to about REAL LIFE things (non-fiction) as often as possible to help construct their understanding of the world around them. They will have plenty of time to explore all the wonderful fantasy options available once they’ve reached the second plane of development (grades 1-6).

MacDowell is going green! (K3-6th grade Newsletter update)

In order to be more environmentally conscious of our paper usage, and because we have many families with siblings enrolled at MacDowell, we will begin sending only one copy of the newsletter home each week. This means that families with siblings in K3-6th grade will only receive (1) newsletter home, and it will be given to the child you designate below.

In addition, any family who reads and receives the digital school newsletter via email and/or text may choose to opt out of the paper newsletter entirely if they wish.

*Please note: Thursday Folders of all students should still be checked weekly for class work and teacher communication.

Please complete this form designating a student, if you have more than one K3-6th grade child who attends MacDowell, OR if you are requesting a paper opt-out and we will make the adjustment as soon as possible.

Thank you! ~Ms. Claudine

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

High school Senior Demarus Torrence works with students in Ms. Rebecca’s class as a Teaching Assistant every other day during his first Block. Demarus works on sandpaper letters, sounds, and sound books with Ms. Rebecca’s K4 and K5 students. Here he is pictured with Tatum working on her sound book. It’s nice for the children to be able to work with him one on one in a quiet area on their sounds. They are always eager to work with him and Demarus is a really great role model to our students.

ACT PREP

Mini-Courses ACT Preparation Class prepares 11th-12th graders for the official ACT test. Students gain direct instruction in the math, reading, English, and science reasoning as well as the writing section of the ACT test. Class instruction also covers test taking strategies so students become familiar with the types of questions they will encounter and learn a variety of strategies to answer those questions. Students participate in an unofficial pre- and post-test experience that familiarizes them with the ACT testing process.

Students must have a core GPA of 2.5 to be eligible for the ACT Preparation Class. Program fee is $185 for the session. DPI Pre-College Scholarships are available to students who are eligible for free/reduced lunch.

The deadline for registration is Friday, September 24th and students can register directly at www.uwm.edu/actprep.

In addition to the preparation class, Mini-Courses offers a one-time test taking experience to 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students. There is a $25.00 fee and there is no grade point average requirement. A DPI scholarship is not available for this experience.

Interested students can register online or download the printable brochure found on the Mini-Courses’ website at www.uwm.edu/actprep.

MENTAL HEALTH MEETINGS AND EVENTS

September 27th at 7pm – More Than Sad – For Parents: From the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. The More Than Sad for Parents program teaches parents how to recognize signs of depression and other mental health problems, initiate a conversation about mental health with their child, and get help.

This program is appropriate for general audiences and for participants age 18+.

https://morethansadsept272021.attendease.com/

September 30th at 7pm – Panel Discussion with Milwaukee Community Members and the Office of Violence Prevention: Suicide and Suicide Prevention among Black and Brown Community Members: Please complete the information below to receive a Zoom link for the event: https://mcwisc.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bQm22xoFlRGWCTY

EXTRACURRICULAR OPPORTUNITY (6th-12th Grade)

The program aims to increase access and retention in medical and graduate school among students underrepresented in medicine and contribute to resolving health disparities in Wisconsin.

Their academic year programs will start on Saturday, November 6, 2021. The application deadline is Friday, October 1st. Please see the flyer and apply here: mcw.edu/stepup

UPCOMING DATES – Please mark your calendars

MacDowell Open House and Back to School Social (outdoors)
Friday, September 24th
4-6 PM @ MacDowell
RSVP here: https://tinyurl.com/MacSocial21

Foro Latino is set for Monday, September 27, 2021 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. This year’s event will be held virtually. Families should register by September 24 at https:// tinyurl.com/ MPSForoLatino
Families will be able to learn more about managing behavior, referrals, transitioning to college and career, and more!

Download a flyer.

FAFSA EVENTS
Do you have an 11th or 12th-grade student that is planning to attend college?
Would you like information on the various ways to pay for college? If yes, come to one of our FAFSA Events below! *Please see the flyer with documents/information required to complete the FAFSA

FAFSA Event / Paying for College Overview
September 30th
5PM
(virtual)
https://meet.google.com/vei-vnbk-grf

*See FLYER HERE

FAFSA Work Session
*IN person, 12th Grade Parents only
October 7th
3:30-5PM
MacDowell College and Career Center.

*See Flyer HERE

Parent-Teacher Conferences
Monday, October 18 from 3:45PM to 7:30PM
Wednesday, October 20, 2021 from 3:45PM to 7:30PM

NO SCHOOL OCTOBER 22ND & OCTOBER 25TH

REMINDERS

Seeking a soccer coach!
We are looking for a 4th-6th grade soccer coach. If you are interested or have questions, please contact Torre Johnson at johns119@milwaukee.k12.wi.us
Game Location: South Stadium
Game Time: Saturday Afternoon
Practice: 1x week minimum

Families should send a text message to: 67587 to connect to the new system.
In the message, send Y or YES to ensure that you continue to receive important texts from your school and district.

REMINDER: YEARBOOKS:
If you still wish to purchase a K3-6th grade yearbook from last school year, you can do so through the office, or send payment with your child. Yearbooks are $10 each, payable in cash (exact change) or check made out to MacDowell Montessori.

QUICK LINKS:

School Website

Parent/Student Handbook On Rights, Responsibilities, And Discipline

https://mps.milwaukee.k12.wi.us/News/MPS-seeks-community-feedback-about-upcoming-projects.htm

School Newsletter Vol. 5

September 20, 2021 By sanfelax

Keep Your Family Safe and Healthy: We can all do our part to stay healthy and avoid COVID-19. Please continue to follow practices to keep our children and community safe. Students who are sick or have COVID-19 symptoms should not come to school. Any person showing symptoms or having exposure to COVID-19 must report this to the school immediately at 414-935-1411.

Wear a face mask in public, even if you are vaccinated.
Maintain 3 feet of physical distancing.
Wash hands frequently, especially when returning home.

Check your child every morning for signs of illness. Keep them home if symptoms are present, and contact a health care provider to ask about testing.

ONE of the following symptoms

Cough
Shortness of breath/difficulty breathing
New loss of taste or smell

TWO or more symptoms

Fever of 100.4° F or above
Chills
Sore throat
Muscle or body aches
New onset of headache
Congestion or runny nose
Fatigue
Diarrhea
Nausea or vomiting

PLEASE SEE THE GUIDELINES FOR SICK CHILDREN pdf HERE and below: https://tinyurl.com/4w9w69aw

COVID-19 TESTING PROGRAM
MPS is participating in the Wisconsin Department of Health Services K–12 COVID-19 testing program. The district will offer a lab-based PCR test to students and staff who exhibit COVID-19 symptoms at school. Collecting a specimen for testing involves inserting a small swab into both nostrils. Testing is voluntary and will take place only with written consent from a parent/guardian.

Below is a link to the consent form for COVID-19 testing, please return this form to the school office if you consent to testing for your student. https://tinyurl.com/34hdz24x

SAFETY DURING DROP OFF AND PICK UP
Our top priority for the school drop-off and pick-up lines is ensuring that students are safe. Please note these important safety reminders:

Stay aware of students and staff and follow the speed limit on school grounds.
Stop at the crosswalks and the stop signs.
Do not stop in the middle of the street and let your child out.

Reading Corner – Library Updates
Our new full-time librarian, Ms. Raasch, has been in the library for over a week now and she’s really excited to be here at MacDowell Montessori! She’s noticed that there are LOTS of books missing from the library that were checked out pre-pandemic or during the pandemic and never returned. The search is on for ALL misplaced and overdue library books!

Students and parents, please look around your house for misplaced library books from the MacDowell library. A lot of books went missing over the past few years (as they did in most libraries!) and we hope that we can work together as a community to get our library books back on the shelves! Look under your beds, in between the couch cushions, and in your cars, etc. Please promptly bring all library books back, no matter how overdue they might be. No fines will be assessed for overdue books, we just want to reshelve them so they can continue to circulate with our students!

Many students have begun checking out books and the excitement is spreading! Please watch for library books that might come home and help your student keep track of them so books can be returned on time to the library and remain in circulation!

Triple P – Positive Parenting Program
Triple P teaches families with children 0-12 years of age how to spend less time battling misbehavior and more time building close relationships. We offer practical advice, backed by science and the successes seen by thousands of families. You’ll develop positive parenting skills to manage stress and encourage healthy habits. Meetings are virtual. Please see the flyer below for a range of classes or the link below:
https://tinyurl.com/cfrs7y5a

Seeking a soccer coach!
We are looking for a 4th-6th grade soccer coach. If you are interested or have questions, please contact Torre Johnson at johns119@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

Game Location: South Stadium
Game Time: Saturday Afternoon
Practice: 1x week minimum

MPS seeks community feedback about upcoming projects.
Milwaukee Public Schools will receive financial support under the federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief fund (ESSER). MPS anticipates about $504 million to allocate over the next three school years and is looking for community participation to help prioritize efforts. The public is invited to read the proposed plan and help prioritize the projects that have been identified. Please read more and access our survey on our ESSER funding web page here:

MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCE: Below please find a resource for a free one hour training for teens about mental health. The program is recommended for teens ages 14 and older.

September 20th
6-7 PM

It’s Real: Teens and Mental Health provides youth with general mental health information and resources. The presentation defines mental health and includes guidance on starting a conversation about mental health and engaging in self-care. The program includes a PowerPoint presentation and script prepared by experts and a resource list for participants.

The goal of the presentation is to provide:

General mental health information and resources to youth
Information on how to notice signs of deterioration in mental health
Tips and strategies on how to start a caring conversation about mental health
Information on how to engage in methods of self-care

PLEASE NOTE: This program is not intended to be utilized for clinical services, support groups, or crisis intervention programs.

Registration information is here: Home – American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

UPCOMING DATES – Please mark your calendars

CUB SCOUT PACK 179 INFO MEETING
Any boy or girl entering K5 thru 5th grade can join Cub Scouts.
Tuesday, Sept 21 at 6:30 PM
Any boy or girl K5-5th grade
Fernwood Montessori School
3239 S Pennsylvania Ave
You can also learn more about Pack 179 and sign up at:
www.facebook.com/FernwoodCubScouts

MacDowell Open House and Back to School Social
Friday, September 24th
4-6 PM @ MacDowell
See flyer linked here
RSVP here: https://tinyurl.com/MacSocial21

MPS Hosts Foro Latino for Families with Special Needs Students
Children with special needs will be the focus of MPS’ 18th annual Foro Latino event. Information and workshops will be provided to improve access to supports for children with special needs.
Foro Latino is set for Monday, September 27, 2021 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. This year’s event will be held virtually. Families should register by September 24 at https:// tinyurl.com/ MPSForoLatino

Families will be able to learn more about managing behavior, referrals, transitioning to college and career, and more!
Download a flyer.

PICTURE DAY
OCTOBER 1ST
Forms will be sent home this week. Our School ID for ordering online at mylifetouch.com is EVT4QXCD9

Parent-Teacher Conferences
Monday, October 18 from 3:45PM to 7:30PM
Wednesday, October 20, 2021 from 3:45PM to 7:30PM
*Look for sign-up links NEXT WEEK!

NO SCHOOL OCTOBER 22ND & OCTOBER 25TH

REMINDERS

SPIRIT WEAR SALE – LAST CHANCE! Our Sale closes this Sunday at midnight!

MacDowell and Juneau items may be purchased online through SEP 19th. A $3 bagging fee will apply to each order. Orders will be delivered to the school and then distributed through student backpacks. Please note that items will not be received at the school until at least 4-5 weeks after the sale closes.

SALE LINK HERE: https://tinyurl.com/MacSpirit21

Families should send a text message to: 67587 to connect to the new system.
In the message, send Y or YES to ensure that you continue to receive important texts from your school and district.

REMINDER: YEARBOOKS:

QUICK LINKS:

Parent/Student Handbook On Rights, Responsibilities, And Discipline