UPCOMING DATES – Please mark your calendars

*All are welcome to our meetings! 

SEC Meeting: Wednesday, September 15th
5:00—5:30 PM
This will be a virtual meeting
Google Meet link: https://meet.google.com/pbf-jvvt-tef

PTO Meeting: Wednesday, September 15th
5:30-6:30 PM
Zoom Meet link: https://tinyurl.com/MacPTO9
Meeting ID: 833 1819 0441
Passcode: 4TheKids

 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

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.
Meetings are 5:30–6:30 p.m. on Mondays every month at MPS Central Services, 5225 W. Vliet Street, Milwaukee, WI 53208. Meetings are held in room 206–208 unless designated as a virtual meeting. The October meeting will be virtual. 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.

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 soon!

 

SCHOOL NEWS

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!!!!

 

CUB SCOUTS INFORMATIONAL MEETINGS
 Any boy or girl entering K5 thru 5th grade can join Cub Scouts.
 

–CUB SCOUT PACK 105 INFO MEETING
Friday, September 10th at 6 PM
Any boy or girl K5-5th grade
St Vincent Pallotti Church Gym
201 N 76th Street
Questions? Can’t make the meeting? Contact Brett Surinak at 414-467-8997

 –CUB SCOUT PACK 179 INFO MEETING
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

 

UPDATED SPECIAL EDUCATION DONATION REQUEST From Mr. Jaeger

THANK YOU to those who have donated to Mr. Jaeger’s project! He is still looking for a few items, please consider supporting if you are able.

Updated needs:

• Paper Shredders (new or used as long as they work)
• Opaque Storage bins – no light through ( 20 qt or larger) with Lids
• 1 rolling trash bin with lid 
• 20 oz plastic tumbler with straw  – looking for 2 dozen total

If you are able to donate any of these items, please sign up HERE – this sign up will help make sure we receive the correct amount of what we need. We appreciate your support!

REMINDERS

SPIRIT WEAR SALE:  Our Sale is up and running through Dunn’s!

MacDowell and Juneau items may be purchased online NOW through SEP 24th. 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

 

!!!! OPT-IN TO TEXT MESSAGING: This will allow you to receive updates regarding transportation changes, school newsletters, school closings and so much more. Follow these instructions to ensure you are receiving important information:

1. Families should send a text message to: 67587 to connect to the new system. 
2. 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:

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.

 

MPS has created a Family Guide with important information about returning to in-person learning this fall. 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!

 

QUICK LINKS:

MPS School Calendar

Lunch Menu

Parent/Student Handbook On Rights, Responsibilities, And Discipline

NO SCHOOL FRIDAY 9/3 & MONDAY 9/6 – Labor Day

 

GENERAL REMINDERS

SCHOOL FORMS:

Please make sure you return our school forms as soon as possible:

–MPS Media Release Form

-Census Verification Report

–MPS Protocol Medical Consent Form

-Alternative Household Income Form –– It is vitally important that we receive the Household Income Form, as it is tied to funding for our school.

Thank you.

SCHOOL NEWS

 

SEC Meeting: Wednesday, September 15th
5:00—5:30 PM
This will be a virtual meeting—link to be shared soon.

 PTO Meeting: Wednesday, September 15th
5:30-6:30 PM
This will be a virtual meeting—link to be shared soon.
 

*All are welcome to our meetings!

 Congratulations Team MacDowell! We were the recipients of the $1,000 grant and the 2021 School Participation Award for having the most registered participants for the Back to School Run, held last weekend. Thank you all for supporting our efforts. We want to especially thank Ms. Lauren Simmons for organizing our team again this year. Thank you Ms. Lauren!

SAVE THE DATE – OPEN HOUSE AND BACK TO SCHOOL SOCIAL
Friday, September 24th
4-6PM @ MacDowell
See flyer below and linked here
RSVP here: https://tinyurl.com/MacSocial21

SPIRIT WEAR SALE:  Our Sale is up and running through Dunn’s!  MacDowell and Juneau items may be purchased online NOW 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

CONGRATS TO OUR MACDOWELL JUNIOR TIA RICHMOND, WHO IS THE MPS STUDENT-ATHLETE OF THE WEEK!

SPECIAL EDUCATION DONATION REQUEST From Mr. Jaeger

Our high school special education resource room is creating opportunities for students to learn and practice some skills that would be useful in workplaces. Currently we have begun a subscription service to high school staff to deliver coffee, iced tea and ice water but are limited by the amount we can provide at this time. We also would like to increase our sustainability within the building by composting our coffee grounds along with other plant materials found at lunch. We want to mix that food waste with shredded paper in order to provide good worm bedding for our soon to arrive order of Red Wiggler worms.

Needs:

• Paper Shredders (new or used as long as they work)
• Opaque Storage bins – no light through ( 20 qt or larger) with Lids
• 5 gallon plastic pails
• 1 rolling trash bin with lid 
• 20 oz travel mugs for coffee – looking for 2 dozen total
• 20 oz plastic tumbler with straw or – looking for 2 dozen total
• dish drying racks

I know our parent community is awesome, and I am looking forward to being able to bring these additional services within our school community. 

**If you are able to donate any of these items, please sign up HERE – this sign up will help make sure we receive the correct amount of what we need. We appreciate your support!

Cheers,

Mr. Justin Jaeger

 

SAVE THE DATE – PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCE

Parent-Teacher Conferences will be held on the evening of Monday, October 18, and Wednesday, October 20, 2021 from 3:45PM to 7:30PM on both nights. Conferences will be virtual over the platform Google Meet and a sign up will be shared with families in the near future.

 

REMINDERS

 

REMINDER: PICK UP SIGNS FOR K3-6th Grade: Orange pick-up name signs that had not yet been handed out have been put in student backpacks. Please check your child’s backpack for this sign. If you still need an orange sign, please contact Parent Coordinator Claudine at nuetzeca@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

Thank you.

 

HS ATHLETICS: The deadline to register for High School Fall sports is Wednesday, September 8, 2021. Registration includes the online registration, physical and insurance uploaded, and athletic fee paid.  The registration system can be found at https://mpsathletics-ar.rschooltoday.com/home

Should you need assistance registering, please reach out to Ms. Schenk at schenkao@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

 

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:

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.

 

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

Mental health conditions can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background. If left untreated, a person’s quality of life can be negatively impacted. However, we can learn to respond to the warning signs of mental health concerns.  September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. We can look and listen for any of these warning signs as it relates to suicide prevention:

• Talking about suicide or death
• Giving away possessions or putting affairs in order
• Reckless behavior, increased drug or alcohol use
• Statements or feeling of hopelessness, isolating from family and friends
• Withdrawal from activities or sudden mood changes.

If you see signs that your child or someone you know might be depressed or thinking about suicide, take them seriously.  Ask if they are considering suicide.  Listen, be sympathetic and offer hope.  Keep them safe.  Remove access to the means to carry out a suicide.  Be prepared with information on how to get help.

• Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline anytime at 1-800-273-8255
• Text “hope” to the Crisis Text Line anytime at 741741
• Take the person to an emergency room or call 9-1-1 in a critical situation

There are many strategies to reduce the risk of suicide and increase youth resiliency:

• Help children establish strong family and community connections.
• Limit time on social media.
• Help children form friendships.
• Encourage children to develop interest they can explore to build competency.
• Teach children that it is OK to fail.  That is how we learn.

We encourage you to reach out to your school social worker, psychologist or counselor if you need any assistance with securing resources for your child.  There is a lot of work to be done to destigmatize mental health.  Let’s support our youth and community so that everyone feels free to ask for help when they need it.

*Information retrieved from Suicide Prevention: The Role of Parents by Shereen Walter https://ed100.org/blog/suicide-prevention

 

UPCOMING EVENT

American Red Cross Sickle Cell Strong Blood Drive
In honor of MacDowell student Demarus
September 3, 2021 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
@ MacDowell
Appointments are strongly encouraged. To make an appointment click HERE
Note: All presenting donors will get a $10 Gift Card by email thanks to Amazon and a Red Cross campfire mug while supplies last!

 

QUICK LINKS:

 

MPS RETURN TO THE CLASSROOM FAMILY GUIDE

MPS School Calendar

Lunch Menu

 

GENERAL REMINDERS

Primary-aged children (K3-K5) should wear clothing that is easy for them to manage on their own when using the bathroom. Pants with elastic waistbands are easier to manipulate than buttons, zippers, snaps, and belt buckles. Rompers and overalls are also difficult to take off and on for most students.

Parents are strongly encouraged to label their child’s belongings, including water bottles, lunch boxes, and backpacks. With young children, backpacks and other personal items may be misplaced. A label will ensure that we can return items to their owners.

Masks are required for all students and staff while indoors and on buses. Masks will not be required while outdoors/at recess. Please make sure that your child’s mask is clean and well-fitting and that you practice mask-wearing with your child so that their nose and mouth are completely covered. Thank you.

OPT-IN TO TEXT MESSAGING: This will allow you to receive updates regarding school news, school closings and so much more. Follow these instructions to ensure you are receiving important information:

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

UPCOMING NO SCHOOL DAYS:
FRIDAY 9/3 NO SCHOOL Labor Day
&
MONDAY 9/6 NO SCHOOL Labor Day

SCHOOL NEWS

MACDOWELL DAY 1 CELEBRATION
MacDowell rolled out the red carpet on August 16 for students returning to in-person learning. Students and families were welcomed by Superintendent Dr. Keith P. Posley, Milwaukee Board of School Directors President Bob Peterson, Mayor Tom Barrett, Sheriff Earnell Lucas, district administrators, and others.

-Please enjoy this video recap of the first day of school.

-Journal-Sentinel photos: https://www.jsonline.com/picture-gallery/news/2021/08/16/first-day-school-mps-students-macdowell-montessori/8151360002/

-MPS Press Release: https://mps.milwaukee.k12.wi.us/News/MPS-schools-welcome-students-back-for-in-person-learning.htm

 

SAVE THE DATE – PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCE
Parent-Teacher Conferences will be held on the evening of Monday, October 18, and Wednesday, October 20, 2021. Please stay tuned for more information.

HS ATHLETICS: The deadline to register for High School Fall sports is Wednesday, September 8, 2021. Registration includes the online registration, physical and insurance uploaded, and athletic fee paid. The registration system can be found at https://mpsathletics-ar.rschooltoday.com/home
Should you need assistance registering, please reach out to Ms. Schenk at schenkao@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

PICK UP SIGNS FOR K3-6th Grade: Orange pick-up name signs that had not yet been handed out have been put in student backpacks. Please check your child’s backpack for this sign. If you still need an orange sign, please contact Parent Coordinator Claudine at nuetzeca@milwaukee.k12.wi.us
Thank you.

SPIRIT WEAR SALE: We are organizing a MacDowell and Juneau spirit wear sale! Items will include t-shirts, hoodies and canvas bags. Orders will be delivered to the school and then distributed through student backpacks. Look for the upcoming flyer soon!

The 2021-22 Parent/Student Handbook on Rights, Responsibilities, and Discipline is available to download. The Parent/Student Handbook on Rights, Responsibilities, and Discipline can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/4yn633rk

COMMUNITY RESOURCES

FREE TUTORING for 1st-12th GRADE STUDENTS
As the school year kicks off, we wanted to share a free opportunity through UW Milwaukee available for families. In response to the changing educational landscape caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, a collaborative of universities have implemented free online tutoring services to K-12 students across the state of Wisconsin. The UWM Virtual Tutoring Program (VTP) provides free, online support from qualified tutors.

There is no charge for this program. Families can register their children and select the type of tutoring support to best meet their needs. Once matched with a tutor, the pair is expected to meet weekly via Zoom for 30- to 45-minute sessions. To learn more about the program, watch this video from a VTP family and tutor about their experience this past spring.

The fall session of the VTP will begin in early October, but registration is open now. To sign up, families can complete this form: https://forms.office.com/r/SyZ1xFP64e

EMERGENCY BROADBAND BENEFITS
What is it?
The Emergency Broadband Benefit is a temporary FCC program to help households struggling to afford internet service during the pandemic.
The benefit provides:
• Up to $50/month discount for broadband services;
• Up to $75/month discount for households on qualifying Tribal lands; and
• A one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet purchased through a participating provider.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
A household is eligible if one member of the household:
• Has an income that is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or participates in certain government assistance programs;
• Receives benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch or breakfast program;
• Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year;
• Experienced a substantial loss of income due to job loss or furlough since February 29, 2020; or
• Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating provider’s existing low-income or COVID-19 program.

LEARN MORE
Visit fcc.gov/broadbandbenefit

HUNGER TASK FORCE SEPTEMBER FOOD DRIVE
When: Saturday, September 11
10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Where: Hunger Task Force, 201 S Hawley Ct, Milwaukee, WI 53214

This exciting distribution event will offer struggling families of all kinds a boost in food. You’ll get milk, eggs, farm produce, peanut butter, fruit/nut mix, cereal and more! Join us drive-thru style at Hunger Task Force—you don’t even need to leave your vehicle to receive your items. Seniors, families, children and individuals are all welcome!

There are income eligibility guidelines to receiving the food, as follows:
• 1 person: $3,190 / month
• 2 people: $ 4,310 / month
• 3 people: $5,430 / month
• 4 people: $6,550 / month
• 5 people: $7,670 / month
• 6 people: $8,790 / month

https://www.hungertaskforce.org/events/september-food-distribution/

REMINDERS

BBBS IS ENROLLING NOW!
Big Brothers Big Sisters is enrolling MacDowell students now! (grades 1-8)
Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) is a one-on-one mentoring program. We are very fortunate that BBBS has been a part of our MacDowell community for the last 16 years. There is no cost for families, and there are no household guidelines or qualifiers to enroll. Matching is done based on common interests and personality. Students meet with their mentor once a week during the school day.

If you are interested in BBBS for your child (grades 1-8), enroll here: https://bbbs.tfaforms.net/f/youthenrollment-school-0405
If you have questions about BBBS at MacDowell, please reach out to Pam Hinton.
Email: phinton@bbbsmilwaukee.org or at 414-831-4573.

BBBS Mentor 2.0
BBBS Mentor 2.0 is a separate program open to any MacDowell 9th-11th grade student. Mentor 2.0 provides support and guidance, helping high school students graduate and succeed in both college and the workforce. We are fortunate in that MacDowell is the only school in MPS to host the Mentor 2.0 program. Mentors and mentees interact weekly online and meet monthly in-person at the school. Once approved, matches are made when classes begin in the fall, and are based on shared interests, personalities, and experiences.

What does the Mentor 2.0 curriculum focus on?
• Relationship Building: Fosters a strong mentor/mentee relationship through sharing professional experiences, networking skills, short/long-term goal planning, and leadership development.
• Non-Cognitive Skills: Develops study skills, social skills, and learning strategies to enhance students’ educational achievement.
• College Knowledge: Strengthens college aspirations, and builds an understanding of college eligibility, the application process, and support systems.

• Students at MacDowell start this program in their freshman year and continue it throughout the rest of their high school career.
• For more information on Mentor 2.0 see the video here https://youtu.be/dL2EHmhF9ug
  For more information on how to apply: contact James at 414.831.4570 or jzarate@bbbsmilwaukee.org

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.

UPCOMING EVENTS

 

American Red Cross Sickle Cell Strong Blood Drive
In honor of MacDowell student Demarus
September 3, 2021 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
@ MacDowell

Appointments are strongly encouraged. To make an appointment click HERE

 

QUICK LINKS:

MPS RETURN TO THE CLASSROOM FAMILY GUIDE

MPS School Calendar

Lunch Menu

Welcome to the 2021-2022 school year! 

We are excited to begin a new school year, and ready to provide a positive, safe and rigorous learning environment for our students!

We have a few new staff members and a few staff position changes for this upcoming school year. Mr. Brian Fink and Mrs. Danita Tyler will return to MacDowell as Assistant Principals in the fall, and in addition, we have added Mr. Chip Johnston as a third Assistant Principal for the 2021-2022 school year.  Mr. Johnston has served as Assistant Principal at Nicolet High School in Milwaukee County last school year, and spent many years in Milwaukee Public Schools, including many years at MacDowell, as a high school Social Studies Teacher, and IB Diploma Programme Coordinator. Mr. Johnston will work to ensure that our IB Middle Years Programme candidacy and authorization proceed as scheduled, and will work to support instruction and students at the 7th through 10th grade levels.  We are excited to have his expertise in the IB curriculum to help us support our expansion of IB at MacDowell to include the Middle Years Programme for the first time!  We are confident that the experience and expertise of the administrative team will continue to benefit and enhance MacDowell’s school community.

In addition, we have new members of our support staff to introduce.  We have a new High School Psychologist join our team, Christopher Archer.  We also have a new full-time librarian, Ms. Tracy Raash, and a new full-time nurse, Nurse Sarah Gruettner. 

At the primary level, we have had two teacher retirements this year.  Ms. Magda Soucie and Mrs. Mary Johnson retired after many years of dedicated service at MacDowell; as a result, we are welcoming two new primary teachers. We are pleased to welcome Mrs. Rebecca Milaeger to the MacDowell family.  Mrs. Milaeger will be taking over Ms. Soucie’s classroom, which has moved to Room 200.  Mrs. Ashley Beermann has moved her classroom to Room 208. We are also pleased to welcome Ms. Amy Berkin to our staff, who is taking over Mrs. Mary Johnson’s classroom. 

We are welcoming some familiar faces to our paraprofessional team as well; Ryan Schmitz and Gail Mosser are both joining our para team after serving our school for many years as parent volunteers.  

At the 9th and 10th grade level, we are excited to announce that Ms. Mohni Kueng will be joining our Special Education team; she will work to support 9th-grade students this upcoming school year.  She will join Mr. Jaeger, Mr. Horn, and Mr. Eide and work diligently to support student needs. 

We are overjoyed to be adding a new full-time instrumental music teacher to our staff. Mr. Eric Ash joins us at MacDowell this year; he will work with students at the middle and high school level, providing Orchestra and Modern Band Instruction.  We hope that with this additional specialist time, we can provide rich experiences for our students here at MacDowell.   

~Principal Corona

---

Parent Coordinator Corner

Hello MacDowell families!  I am your parent coordinator Ms. Claudine, this will be my 6th year working at MacDowell. I love my job and this school is very special to me.  I am also a proud MacDowell parent – I have a son that is in 6th grade and a daughter that is in 3rd grade.  My job is to keep families involved, engaged and informed.  I help organize school events, write and send out our school communication, support leadership opportunities like the PTO, DAC and SEC, and I manage our volunteers.  If you are interested in volunteering or serving on one of our leadership committees, let’s talk! We are always happy to have volunteers serve in whatever capacity they are able and we are extremely thankful for those who can offer their time, talent, and energy. Volunteer opportunities include: literacy and math tutors, general assistants (photocopying, laminating materials), coaches, gardeners, field trip chaperones, and event volunteers. We are also in need of a 2nd DAC representative. This person would serve a leadership role at the district level.  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

School Leadership Groups:

SEC (School Engagement Council)

The SEC is a place that brings together families, staff, students, and community to work to support and inform shared leadership, equity, and cultural relevance resulting in increased student achievement. Our meetings are open to all even if you are not a member. Our School Engagement Council meets once a month, generally the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 5PM. Dates and times are posted in our school newsletter. 

PTO (Parent Teacher Organization)

Our PTO is a volunteer organization made up of parents/guardians, teachers, administrators and staff. We work to improve the educational experience for the MacDowell students by organizing and supporting community events and fundraising for items that are not otherwise in our school budget, prom and more. PTO meetings are held on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 5:30 and anyone is welcome to attend. Dates and times are posted in our school newsletter. 

DAC (District Advisory Council)

The DAC is a leadership committee at the district level. The DAC works to ensure that parents of all students have an opportunity to share their ideas about the needs of children, assist in the planning and operation of Title I programs for children and participate in evaluating the success of Title I efforts. School DAC Representatives as well as other families or community members are welcome to attend meetings, which are held the first Thursday of the month. MacDowell is in need of another DAC member to serve as an official representative for our school. Please reach out if you are interested in serving on the DAC! More info here: https://tinyurl.com/2uyv2zma

School Communication

• I send out the School Newsletter every Thursday via email and a paper copy via Thursday folders for K3-6th grade students. Other messaging is pushed out to families as needed, so please continue to check your emails.
• By default, school communication is sent via email. If you wish to also receive school communication via text message you can opt-in by sending a text message to the number 67587 with “Y” in the message. This will allow you to receive both MPS text messaging and MacDowell’s texts.
• Our school website is updated regularly. School Newsletters, school events, school hours, staff emails and more can be found on our website. Our school website is http://www5.milwaukee.k12.wi.us/school/macdowell/
• You may also register to receive news updates on our school website, scroll down and enter your email in the box called ‘Subscribe for School Updates’. You will have to respond yes to the automated email opting yourself into these web updates.  This will send you an email with our new website posts.
• Please also follow and like us on Facebook.
• Please join our MacDowell PTO Facebook group, which is searchable by ‘MacDowell PTO’. Let us know your name and your child’s name when you request to join.

If you need to reach me, my phone number is 414-935-1339 and my email address is: nuetzeca@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

If you would like to text me you can join my Remind class at @pcmac. There are 2 ways to join: 

• On your iPhone or Android phone, open your web browser and go to the following link: rmd.at/pcmac
• Follow the instructions to sign up for Remind. You’ll be prompted to download the mobile app.

• OR, you can text the message @pcmac to the number 81010.

---

GENERAL REMINDERS

Parents are strongly encouraged to label their child’s belongings, including water bottles, lunch boxes, and backpacks. With young children, backpacks and other personal items may be misplaced.

Masks are required for all students and staff while indoors and on buses.  Masks will not be required while outdoors/at recess. Please make sure that your child’s mask is clean and well-fitting and that you practice mask-wearing with your child so that their nose and mouth are completely covered. Thank you. 

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.

SCHOOL NEWS

BBBS IS ENROLLING NOW!

Big Brothers Big Sisters is enrolling MacDowell students now! (grades 1-8)

Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS)  is a one-on-one mentoring program. We are very fortunate that BBBS has been a part of our MacDowell community for the last 16 years. There is no cost for families, and there are no household guidelines or qualifiers to enroll. Matching is done based on common interests and personality. Students meet with their mentor once a week during the school day.

Big Brothers Big Sisters is enrolling MacDowell students now! (grades 1-8)

If you are interested in BBBS for your child(ren), enroll here: https://bbbs.tfaforms.net/f/youthenrollment-school-0405

If you have questions about BBBS at MacDowell, please reach out to Pam Hinton. 

Email: phinton@bbbsmilwaukee.org or at 414-831-4573.

—–

BBBS Mentor 2.0

BBBS Mentor 2.0 is a separate program open to any MacDowell 9th-11th grade student. Mentor 2.0 provides support and guidance, helping high school students graduate and succeed in both college and the workforce. We are fortunate in that MacDowell is the only school in MPS to host the Mentor 2.0 program. Mentors and mentees interact weekly online and meet monthly in-person at the school.  Once approved, matches are made when classes begin in the fall and are based on shared interests, personalities, and experiences.

What does the Mentor 2.0  curriculum focus on?

• Relationship Building: Fosters a strong mentor/mentee relationship through sharing professional experiences, networking skills, short/long-term goal planning, and leadership development.
• Non-Cognitive Skills: Develops study skills, social skills, and learning strategies to enhance students’ educational achievement.
• College Knowledge: Strengthens college aspirations, and builds an understanding of college eligibility, the application process, and support systems.

Students at MacDowell start this program in their freshman year and continue it throughout the rest of their high school career. For more information on Mentor 2.0 see the video here https://youtu.be/dL2EHmhF9ug

For more information on how to apply: contact James at 414.831.4570 or jzarate@bbbsmilwaukee.org

---

UPCOMING NO SCHOOL DAYS

FRIDAY 9/3  NO SCHOOL Labor Day

MONDAY 9/6 NO SCHOOL Labor Day

---

UPCOMING EVENTS 

Run Back to School

Join our team! MacDowell students and families are welcome to join us! The school with the most number of participants is eligible to receive a $1,000 grant. Advanced registration details are below.  If you haven’t signed up yet, there’s still time to join us! 

WHEN: Saturday, August 28th

TIME: start time: 9 AM

WHERE: Start & Finish Line: Wick Playfield (park in the lot next door, behind the MPS Central Services building: 5225 W. Vliet St.)

COST: $5 for youth/$15 for adults ($20 for adults after Aug. 12) Fee includes an event t-shirt and race bag. 

REGISTER HERE: https://tinyurl.com/z9dan988 (Be sure to enter your team name as MacDowell)

PLEASE NOTE: Our team captain Lauren Simmons will pick up t-shirts for all those who have registered by this Friday, August 20th so that you do not have to go to the drive-through event if you do not want to (to be held on Thursday, August 26th.) Ms. Lauren will distribute them to participants the morning of the run at 8:15 a.m by Wick field near the playground. Any questions? Please contact her at: ljsimmons08@gmail.com

American Red Cross Sickle Cell Strong Blood Drive

In honor of MacDowell student Demarus

September 3, 2021 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm

@ MacDowell

Appointments are strongly encouraged. To make an appointment click HERE

QUICK LINKS:

MPS RETURN TO THE CLASSROOM FAMILY GUIDE

MPS School Calendar

School Website

Lunch Menu

MacDowell families, 
This historic and unique school year is nearly over. What a year it’s been! We want to thank our families because we know that it has been with your support and encouragement that so many of our students engaged in their lessons and classes each day.

STUDENT ENROLLMENT:
As we look toward the next school year, for our planning purposes it is important for us to know whether your student(s) will continue at MacDowell next year.  Please take a moment to complete our short Enrollment Form at your earliest convenience so that we can plan efficiently. 
If you have multiple MacDowell students, please complete the form for all your children. Thank you in advance.  
Complete the form here: https://forms.gle/sEP59X2DxgPtJEjf7

Important Dates

HS FINAL EXAMS – See exam schedule and info HERE

• Monday, May 24 (2 Exams)
• Tuesday, May 25 (3 Exams)
• Wednesday, May 26 (2 Exams)

8th Grade Completion Ceremony
Tuesday, May 25
5PM
MacDowell Auditorium
5 tickets will be allotted to each student who is completing. Due to restrictions, no additional tickets will be available.

Senior Graduation Rehearsal and Picnic (students only)
May 26th
MacDowell
12-3 PM

Last Day of School
May 26
Senior Cap and Gown Pick Up (Inside the main doors of the school / Fees must be paid in full to pick-up your items including graduation tickets) 

• • Thursday, May 27th from 9 am-12 pm
  • Friday, May 28th from 12 pm-3 pm 

High School Graduation
June 1
4 PM
North Division HS Auditorium, 1011 W. Center Street • Milwaukee, WI 53206
Students are to arrive by 3:30 pm. Doors open for families at 3:30 pm – Each student receives 5 tickets. Due to restrictions, no additional tickets will be available.

School News

CHROMEBOOK AND MATERIAL RETURN
Please sign up to return our MPS Chromebook(s) with charger(s), Montessori materials, textbooks, and novels to MacDowell Montessori next week.  

• • • Drop off will take place on 64th street (not on Mt. Vernon) May 26-28th by appointment.
    • Please park your car and return the items to one of the tables at Door 4 and Door 5 on 64th street. Please wear a mask when you are dropping off.

 If you would like to return your child’s Chromebook and Materials earlier than May 26th- please have your child return these items to his/her classroom or 1st block teacher.

The Montessori Materials we are asking for include the packet of bead bars (given to K5 and 3rd-grade students) as well as the plastic materials such as cards and counters, metal inset, Teens board, Tens board, box of sticks, stamp game, fraction circles, grammer box template, and sentence analysis template.
Novels (grades in parenthesis): Of Mice and Men (7/8), The One and Only Ivan (7/8) American Born Chinese (7/8), Everything That Rises Must Converge (11th), The Complete Short Stories of Ernest Hemingway (12th)
Textbook: Mathematics for the International Student (11th gr. & 12th if IB testing)

Here is a picture of some, but not all of the Montessori materials we need to be returned.

(not pictured: cards and counters, packet of bead bars, grammer box template, box of sticks. Note: your metal inset shape may vary)
We are not in need of other photocopied papers, journals or maps returned. 
If you cannot make any of these days or times, please contact the office at 414-935-1400 to schedule an appointment.  
Sign up HERE: https://tinyurl.com/a3xjdvts

---

SUPPORTING LITERACY AT HOME DURING THE SUMMER:
WI FACETS is offering a free webinar discussing Supporting Literacy at Home During the Summer this Thursday, May 20th from 12pm-1pm.
They will discuss the “summer slide”, the 5 components of reading and everyday opportunities for families to engage with their children around literacy.
You will learn about picking the “right” book and be provided many resources, tips and
strategies to promote summer reading with your children and why it’s so important.
Please register at https://wifacets.org/events/event/supporting-literacy-home-during-summer-2

---

EARN AND LEARN Summer Youth Employment Program
Every career starts with a first job. Workplace learning introduces youth to the world of work and helps them develop critical skills for success.

The EARN & LEARN Summer Youth Employment Program (EARN & LEARN) started in 2007 and is designed to provide meaningful work experiences and career exposure to young adults ages 14-24 years old, residing in Milwaukee County and the City of Milwaukee. To date, Employ Milwaukee, in partnership with Mayor Tom Barrett of the City of Milwaukee and numerous community partners and stakeholders, has provided paid EARN & LEARN work experiences to over 40,000 young adults in the community.

The program seeks to provide:

• • • Structured, well-organized work-based learning experiences
    • Role models that encourage youth to continue in or return to school
    • Career assessment, awareness, and exploration as part of the learning experience and
    • Opportunities that may lead to unsubsidized employment for youth making the transition from school.

Participants may work up to 20 hours per week for 6-8 weeks. Each Friday, Employ Milwaukee hosts professional development and job readiness skill workshops and enrichment activities. Work experiences available through our EARN & LEARN Program range from developing culinary skills at the Wisconsin State Fair Park to working in medical facilities.
Interested in being an EARN & LEARN participant?
The application period has been extended and is now open through May 27th, 2021 at 4:00 p.m.
APPLICATION HERE: https://www.employmilwaukee.org/Employ-Milwaukee/Programs–Services/Job-Placement/Earn–Learn-Summer-Youth-Employment/Earn–Learn-Participants.htm

---

Want to know more about raising a child who has mental health or behavioral difficulties? NAMI Basics OnDemand is an online 6-session education program for parents, caregivers, and other family members who provide care for youth (ages 22 and younger) who are experiencing mental health symptoms. This program is at no cost to participants.

NAMI Basics is now available state-wide for parents and caregivers of children and adolescents living with mental health, emotional, and behavioral difficulties.

• • • explore the causes of behavioral difficulties
    • discover the critical role families play in treatment
    • learn effective coping skills for yourself and your childThis course is offered at no cost and taught by trained teachers with lived experience.
      JUNE 12TH – JULY 24TH
      SATURDAYS, 9:00-11:30 A.M

For any specific questions or if a parent would like to register for this class, please have contact Denise Fischer at 262.409.2723 or dfischer@namisoutheastwi.org

NO CLASS JULY 3RD. REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY JUNE 2ND.

This virtual NAMI Basics class is made possible by NAMI Wisconsin. Priority registration
will be given to those living in parts of Wisconsin without a local NAMI affiliate or for
those whose local NAMI affiliate does not offer NAMI Basics. Learn more:
https://namisoutheastwi.org/support-and-education/mental-health-education/nami-basics/

---

MPS will host walk-in vaccine clinics at five schools starting Monday, May 17
All Wisconsin residents age 12 and older are now eligible for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services is expanding vaccine eligibility based on guidance from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that the vaccine is safe and effective for this age group. In collaboration with the Milwaukee Health Department, MPS will host walk-in vaccine clinics at five schools starting Monday, May 17. All youth will need a consent form signed by a parent/guardian, and no appointment is required.
INFO: MPS will host walk-in vaccine clinics at five schools starting Monday, May 17

---

EMERGENCY BROADBAND BENEFIT (EBB): Starting May 12, 2021, eligible MPS households will be able to enroll in the EBB program to receive a monthly discount on the cost of broadband service from an approved provider. Visit www.GetEmergencyBroadband.org.
Eligible MPS households may receive a $50 monthly discount for broadband services as well as a one-time discount of up to $100 for a computing device per family.

---

SUMMER READING
Please remember that it is important that you continue to read to your child and encourage your student reader to read over the summer. Summer Reading makes an important difference when children go back to school. Research shows that kids who don’t read during the summer actually enter the next school year reading on a lower level than they ended the previous year. Let’s all work to stop the ‘Summer Slump.”

The Milwaukee Public Library Super Reader Program begins June 1!
Students can sign up and track their progress online here: mpl.beanstack.com

Parents/Guardians, the MPL also has an adult summer reading program with great prizes to raffle off for those that complete various reading activities.

–Looking for great book recommendations for your child? Check out MPS Reads lists here:
https://mps.milwaukee.k12.wi.us/en/Programs/Literacy/MPS-Reads.htm

-Another great source for book recommendations is through MPL’s Library Now. Choose “Novelist K-8’ to find suggestions based on what your child enjoys reading. You can also find audiobooks, eBooks, videos and more through Library Now.
https://mpl.org/librarynow/

Important Dates

Monday, MAY 17th – NO SCHOOL

HS FINAL EXAMS
MacDowell Montessori follows a modified final proficiency schedule. 

• Monday, May 24 (2 Exams)
• Tuesday, May 25 (3 Exams)
• Wednesday, May 26 (2 Exams)

8th Grade Completion Ceremony
Tuesday, May 25
5PM
MacDowell Auditorium
5 tickets will be allotted to each student who is completing. Due to restrictions, no additional tickets will be available.

Senior Graduation Rehearsal and Picnic
May 26th
12-3 PM

Last Day of School
May 26

Senior Cap and Gown Pick Up (Inside the main doors of the school / Fees must be paid in full to pick up your items including graduation tickets) 

• Thursday, May 27th from 9am-12pm
• Friday, May 28th from 12pm-3pm 

High School Graduation
June 1
4PM
North Division HS Auditorium, 1011 W. Center Street • Milwaukee, WI 53206
Students are to arrive by 3:30 pm. Doors open for families at 3:30 pm – Each student receives 5 tickets. Due to restrictions, no additional tickets will be available.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

 

---

School News

 

EMERGENCY BROADBAND BENEFIT (EBB): Starting May 12, 2021, eligible MPS households will be able to enroll in the EBB program to receive a monthly discount off the cost of broadband service from an approved provider. Visit www.GetEmergencyBroadband.org. 

Eligible MPS households may receive a $50 monthly discount for broadband services as well as a one-time discount up to $100 for a computing device per family. 

Emergency Broadband Benefit FCC Flyer HERE 

---

UW MILWAUKEE VIRTUAL SUMMER CAMP

6-8th Grade Students

Planning for the Future Virtual STEM Program is now accepting applications. The program emphasis is on academic, leadership, and social skills development for middle school students in grades 6–8. DPI scholarships are available for eligible students.
Camp details:
July 1 – July 30th, 2021
Monday – Thursday 8:30 – 1PM (Fridays are reserved for virtual field trips)
Information and application below:
Due 6.11.21 UWM PFF Summer Middle School.pdf

---

FOX6 SALUTES 2021 GRADUATING SENIORS: View and submit photos

It’s almost graduation time and FOX6 is excited to salute high school seniors for their accomplishments. We invite you to send FOX6 a picture of a graduating high school senior. Tell us a little about your special grad – what their plans are after graduation, what makes you most proud. Pictures will be featured here and some mentioned in FOX6 newscasts! 
To submit: https://www.fox6now.com/salute2seniors

---

SUMMER ACADEMY / SUMMER SCHOOL REGISTRATION REMINDER

Grades K5-8: Session runs June 22 to July 29 from 8:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.   Fernwood Montessori will be a Summer Academy site for K5-6th grade students, so there is Montessori Summer school if parents choose that option. Students in grades 6-8 can participate in the Summer Academy Exploration Camp or choose other program options.
K5-8th Grade Registration (Registration will close on Monday, June 7, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. )
https://tinyurl.com/yzr36trv

High School students can catch up on credits or get ahead. 
Two sessions are available from 8:30 A.M. to 12:30 P.M.:

• June 7-July 2 (Registration for the June session will close on Friday, May 14, 2021 at 11:59 p.m)
• July 6-July 29 

High School Registration: https://tinyurl.com/4fa7zfbs
Visit mpsmke.com/summeracademy for all the details.

---

SUMMER READING
As we are nearing the end of the school year please remember that it is important that you continue to read to your child and encourage your student reader to read over the summer. Summer Reading makes an important difference when children go back to school. Research shows that kids who don’t read during the summer actually enter the next school year reading on a lower level than they ended the previous year. Let’s all work to stop the ‘Summer Slump.”
The Milwaukee Public Library Super Reader Program begins June 1!

Students can sign up and track their progress online here: mpl.beanstack.com
Parents/Guardians, the MPL also has an adult summer reading program with great prizes to raffle off for those that complete various reading activities.
-Looking for great book recommendations for your child? Check out MPS Reads lists here:
https://mps.milwaukee.k12.wi.us/en/Programs/Literacy/MPS-Reads.htm
-Another great source for book recommendations is through MPL’s Library Now. Choose “Novelist K-8’ to find suggestions based on what your child enjoys reading. You can also find  audiobooks, eBooks, videos and more through Library Now.
https://mpl.org/librarynow/

Important Dates

SEC
Wednesday, May 12
5:00 – 5:30 PM
Via Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/eoy-uojq-omr

PTO
Wednesday, May 12
5:30 – 6:30 PM
Via Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/sei-thzt-skw

Monday, MAY 17th – NO SCHOOL

FINAL EXAMS
MacDowell Montessori follows a modified final proficiency schedule. 

• Monday, May 24, 2021 (2 Exams)
• Tuesday, May 25, 2021 (3 Exams)
• Wednesday, May 26, 2021 (2 Exams)

8th Grade Completion Ceremony
Tuesday, May 25
5PM
MacDowell Auditorium
5 tickets will be allotted to each student who is completing. Due to restrictions, no additional tickets will be available.

Senior Cap and Gown Pick Up (Inside the main doors of the school / Fees must be paid in full to pick up your items including graduation tickets) 

• Thursday, May 27th from 9am-12pm
• Friday, May 28th from 12pm-3pm 

High School Graduation
June 1
4PM
North Division HS Auditorium, 1011 W. Center Street • Milwaukee, WI 53206
Students are to arrive by 3:30 pm. Doors open for families at 3:30 pm – Each student receives 5 tickets. Due to restrictions, no additional tickets will be available.

 

School News

 

REMINDER: Vaccines Still Available

All Milwaukee residents age 16 and older are now eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Visit the Milwaukee Health Department website for information and details about scheduling a vaccine, or contact your healthcare provider.

Everyone 16 years and older is eligible for Covid-19 Vaccine

• All 16 and 17 year olds must have parent/guardian consent
• Vaccines are provided free of charge
• Insurance information will not be collected
• Thousands of vaccines are available daily

---

Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) is a program that provides grocery benefits to parents to replace the value of missed school meals. Children who did virtual learning (learned at home or on a home computer) for any portion of the 2020-21 school year may be eligible to receive P-EBT.

Link to apply: https://access.wi.gov/s/pebt?language=en_US

Questions about P-EBT

If you have questions about the P-EBT program, there is information including frequently asked questions and answers on the DHS P-EBT web page. You can also reach out to the PEBTsupport@wisconsin.gov or P-EBT support line at 1-833-431-2224 (8am-4pm, M-F). Be prepared to provide:

• your child’s full name and grade level
• your child’s school name and the location of the school
• your full name and contact information for follow-up: phone and email
• your preferred language, if not English
• if applicable: your case number (this can be found at the bottom of each page of your letter)
• a description of your problem, issue or question

---

REMINDER! Opt in to Receive District and School Text Messages 
Did you know that you could have school communication texted to you instead? If you want text messaging send  a text message to 67587 with “Y” in the message. This will opt you in to both MPS text messaging and MacDowell’s texts.

---

UWM COLLEGE FOR KIDS & TEENS: The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee offers spring and summer courses in science, math, language, social sciences, arts, and more for students in K5 through high school. Prices vary and a limited number of scholarships are available! Visit uwm.edu/sce/kids for course descriptions and schedules. Registration is open now!

For spring programming, visit the spring programming page or call (414) 227-3360 to ask about scholarships available.

---

8th Grade Completion Ceremony

5 tickets will be allotted to each student who is completing. Due to restrictions no additional tickets will be available. The ceremony will be held in the MacDowell Auditorium on Tuesday, May 25th at  5PM

---

Senior Graduation Information

Ceremony information, Cap and Gown pick up, Senior fees information can be found on this document here: MacDowell 2021 Important Graduation Info.pdf

---

Harley-Davidson Youth Apprenticeship Program – Menomonee Falls location

MPS students: Would you like to gain real work experience in an industrial skilled trade? Pilgrim Road employees produce engines and transmissions for the final assembly plant in York, PA. We are looking for students who are interested in exploring and getting hands on experience in an industrial skilled trade as a Manufacturing Youth Apprentice. We are currently hiring for our Industrial Electrician, Machine Repair, and Tool & Die Youth Apprenticeship Programs. Join our team and help build the world’s most sought-after motorcycles.

The Youth Apprenticeship (YA) integrates school-based and work-based learning to instruct students in employability and occupational skills defined by Wisconsin industries. The Harley-Davidson Youth Apprenticeship provides training based on statewide youth apprenticeship curriculum guidelines. Students are instructed by qualified teachers and skilled worksite mentors. Students are simultaneously enrolled in academic classes to meet high school graduation requirements, and are employed by Harley-Davidson.

Education Required

• MPS high school senior or junior in 2021-22 school year

For Full Details see: H-D YA job description-Updated 5-6-21.docx

---

MPS Senior DNC MacBook Award

Seniors need to submit an online application that demonstrates financial need (Pell grant eligible), acceptance to a college or university, and submit a short video sharing their college and career plans. Students can get assistance with their application through their School Counselor or College and Career Center Advisor. Applications are due on May 21, 2021 at 4:00 pm and winners will be announced at the Senior Send-Off on June 7, 2021.

 Apply here: https://tinyurl.com/2bxw6ztb

---

Seniors are reminded to complete their FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). If they need help completing the FAFSA families can contact:

Crystal Bruce Konuah: By text: 414-454-9164 brownc5@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

Stella Nathan: By text at 414-369-2868 or email nathanse@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

Important In-Person Student Reminders

Safety Concerns for Morning drop off and End of Day Pickup

Our top priority for the school drop off and pick up lines is ensuring that students are safe.  Our drop off line is cleared by 8:15, and traffic is very congested at 8:00AM.  A good suggestion if your schedule allows, is to arrive at 8:15 when the traffic flow is much better.  Please review the procedures below to ensure a prompt and secure drop off and pick up. Thank you.

Drop off/Pick up Reminders:

1. 1. Drop off time is from 8:00 to 8:20 am.
   2. K3-6th grade traffic moves North to South on 64th Street. Drop off and pick up is only on the school side of the street.
   3. 7-12th grade traffic moves South to North on 65th Street and drop off and pick up is behind the bus line.
   4. Do not let your child out in the middle of the street.
   5. Parents/guardians should stay in their cars. 
   6. Students at drop off should be ready to exit vehicles immediately, with masks on, and only from the passenger side.
   7. When you have reached the Hug and Go zone on 64th Street and have pulled as far forward as you can, stop and let your children exit/enter your car FROM THE CURB SIDE ONLY. 
   8. Cars should pull up to the farthest sign so that we are able to unload 4-5 cars at a time. Students should only be released between the marked signs unless we direct you otherwise. When you pull all the way forward, more children can load/unload simultaneously.
   9. Cars in line should pull up as far to the right as possible to allow for the flow of traffic.
   10. Please always have your yellow sign displayed for K3-6th grade pick up.
   11. No dogs allowed.

 

Any child arriving after 8:20 AM must enter via the main entrance door on Mt. Vernon Ave.

Final Reminder: Covid-19 testing consent forms need to be returned by Friday, April 30th in order for a student to remain in in-person learning. Failure to return the consent form will result in your child being assigned to our virtual learning environment. We are sending forms home with a letter from Principal Corona again today. Please have your child return this form to their teacher as soon as possible. View a copy of the letter HERE

A PDF copy of the form can be downloaded here: https://files.constantcontact.com/f2f33cc0401/8eb82ee7-d6e1-4069-9a1a-c1c201b2fdef.pdf

**We will accept digitally signed forms – please email them to Ms. Claudine at nuetzeca@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

Random testing of classrooms will be done for all students, K3-12 

Illness: When parents call to report a child sick, they need to declare what symptoms their child has, so we can immediately enact the Contact Tracing Protocols, if necessary.

 

Important Dates

DAC meeting (District Advisory Council)
Thursday, May 6, 2021
Via Zoom: DAC Meeting Link

Special Education Leadership Institute for Families
Tuesday, May 4
6:00 – 7:30 p.m. via Zoom
MPS will offer valuable training and classes to help parents, guardians, and family members gain the insight and skills needed to ensure their child succeeds in school. Topics include Individualized Education Programs (IEP), rights and responsibilities, and student conduct.
Register at: https://tinyurl.com/SELIF2021
See the flyer HERE for more information

SEC
Wednesday, May 12
5:00 – 5:30 PM
Via Google Meet

PTO
Wednesday, May 12
5:30 – 6:30 PM
Via Google Meet

Monday, MAY 17th – NO SCHOOL

School News

 

MILWAUKEE RECREATION PRESENTS:
FAMILY DRIVE-IN MOVIE DAY

Saturday, May 15th (Rain Date – May 22nd)
Join us for a family-friendly drive-in movie experience like no other! Sign up to see one or multiple movies throughout the day.
Location: Central Office (5225 W. Vliet St.).
Snacks: Popcorn and water will be provided!
View and download the flyer HERE
Don’t forget to pack additional snacks to enjoy during the film.
Entrance Fee: $20 per vehicle

Sign up at mkerec.net/movie

 

 

---

Yearbook Deadline Extended!
HOW TO SUBMIT

• You can still submit Yearbook photos!
• Please send class photos with the blue Lifetouch background.
• Please include the student’s name in the email message.

WHERE TO SUBMIT

• K3-6th grade students: Please email photos to Ms. Claudine with the Subject Line ‘Yearbook’ to nuetzeca@milwaukee.k12.wi.us
• 7th – 8th-grade students: Please submit your Yearbook photo to your Seminar Classroom
• 9-11th Grade Yearbook Photo Submission HERE
• 12th Grade Yearbook Photo Submission HERE

Please use the Lifetouch “Snaps at Home” link to create your yearbook photo (blue/free background) and then submit. https://lifetouch.com/picture-day-snaps-at-home/

• Families should be aware that they do not have to pay for a photo to get their child’s photo in the yearbook. We are requesting a photo with the blue (free) background for uniformity. Simply screenshot the image from Snaps @ Home and submit it to us.

WHAT TO SUBMIT

1. Class photo with blue/free Lifetouch background.

We would also love to have photos of:
-Virtual field trips
-Students at work
-Practical life
-First day of school pictures
-Mask selfies
-Student hobbies 
-Students and their pets
-Holidays / birthdays

 

Please make sure that the student’s photo is as clear as possible and has been uploaded with the blue Lifetouch background.
Looking for tips in taking a class photo at home? Click HERE

Yearbook questions? Please contact Ms. Claudine at nuetzeca@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

PICTURE DAY SNAPS @ HOME INFO

Lifetouch + Shutterfly have come together to offer a program called Picture Day Snaps @Home. This year only, through the convenience of the Shutterfly app, you can capture a quick snap, add your favorite Lifetouch background and order a picture package all while @home!

How Picture Day Snaps works:

1. Download the Shutterfly app. Shutterfly App link HERE
2. Select a picture package. Packages start as low as 4.99 not including shipping. 
3. Smile! Snap a quick pic or upload a photo from your Photo Library
4. Customize your image with your favorite background.
5. Order your picture package. Picture packages are shipped directly to your home.

 

---

Summer Academy / Summer School Registration Reminder

Get ready for Summer Academy! Visit mpsmke.com/summeracademy for all the details.

Grades K5-8: Session runs June 22 to July 29 from 8:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.   Fernwood Montessori will be a Summer Academy site for K5-6th grade students, so there is Montessori Summer school if parents choose that option. Students in grades 6-8 can participate in the Summer Academy Exploration Camp or choose other program options.

K5-8th Grade Registration (Registration will close on Monday, June 7, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. )

https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/9d632fa5051e4bb5aaa0b6eb20e5750f

High School students can catch up on credits or get ahead. 

Two sessions are available from 8:30 A.M. to 12:30 P.M.:

• June 7-July 2 (Registration for the June session will close on Friday, May 14, 2021 at 11:59 p.m)
• July 6-July 29 

High School Registration: 

https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/7987432c41824d749bdb652ece3b4bff

---

FAMILY FRIDAY NEWSLETTER: 

The district sends a weekly newsletter to all MPS families on Fridays. The Family Friday Newsletter contains districtwide news, updates, and resources that help keep families informed of the great happening in MPS. This news is separate from the MacDowell Newsletter.

To view the latest Family Friday Newsletter, view the Family Friday Newsletter web page on the MPS website HERE.

Want to receive the Family Friday Newsletter in your inbox? Sign up using the link on the Family Friday Newsletter web page. For questions or assistance, please contact the Department of Communications & Marketing, comm@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

---

MPS Lunch MENUS: https://mps.milwaukee.k12.wi.us/en/home/Lunch-Menu.htm

 

Important In-Person Student Reminders

Covid-19 testing consent forms need to be returned by Friday, April 30th in order for a student to remain in in-person learning. Failure to return the consent form will result in your child being assigned to our virtual learning environment. We are sending forms home with a letter from Principal Corona again today. Please have your child return this form to their teacher as soon as possible. View a copy of the letter HERE

Random testing of classrooms will be done for all students, K3-12 grade.

Correction: The week of April 25th (next week) will be our first testing week.

Illness: When parents call to report a child sick they need to declare what symptoms their child has, so we can immediately enact the Contact Tracing Protocols, if necessary.

 

Important Dates

Monday, April 26th
In-person learning will begin for 9-12th grade students for those who have selected to be in person. 

Tuesday, April 27th
Special Education Leadership Institute for Families
MPS will offer valuable training and classes to help parents, guardians, and family members gain the insight and skills needed to ensure their child succeeds in school. Topics include Individualized Education Programs (IEP), rights and responsibilities, and student conduct.
6:00 – 7:30 p.m. via Zoom
Register at: https://tinyurl.com/SELIF2021
See the flyer HERE for more information

School News

 

School Handbook

Linked below you will find the MacDowell Montessori COVID-19 Handbook, which communicates with you our most up-to-date plan for the remainder of the 20-21 school year.  Please review this handbook to understand our new procedures.

Link to MacDowell Handbook HERE

---

Yearbook Deadline Extended!

HOW TO SUBMIT

• Yearbook Photo Submission has been extended one week!  Photos due April 26th.
• Please send class photos with the blue Lifetouch background.
• Please include the student’s name in the email message.

WHERE TO SUBMIT

• K3-6th grade students: Please email photos to Ms. Claudine with the Subject Line ‘Yearbook’ to nuetzeca@milwaukee.k12.wi.us
• 7th – 8th-grade students: Please submit your Yearbook photo to your Seminar Classroom
• 9-11th Grade Yearbook Photo Submission HERE
• 12th Grade Yearbook Photo Submission HERE

What are we looking for? 
We need your student’s school pictures for the classroom/grade level pages. Please make sure that the student’s photo is as clear as possible and has been uploaded with the blue Lifetouch background.
Looking for tips in taking a class photo at home? Click HERE
 
For school photos please use the Lifetouch Snaps @ Home link to create your yearbook photo (blue/free background) and then submit. https://lifetouch.com/picture-day-snaps-at-home/

Families should be aware that they do not have to pay for a photo to get their child’s photo in the yearbook. We are requesting a photo for K3-11th grade students with the blue (free) background for uniformity. Simply screenshot or download the image from Snaps @ Home and submit it to us. 
Yearbook questions? Please contact Ms. Claudine at nuetzeca@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

---

State Testing

Dear Parent/Guardian:

Milwaukee Public School students will participate in spring state assessments. Some assessments can be administered in both virtual and in-person formats. Other assessments can only be done in-person. If your child is in virtual learning and you want your child to report in-person for the purpose of participating in state testing, please contact your child’s school directly to make arrangements.  Information on policies regarding student participation in these assessments and procedures for opting out are available on the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction website at https://dpi.wi.gov/assessment/faq.

Below are the assessments, descriptions and eligible testing dates within the state testing windows of each spring assessment:

 

Forward                          (3 – 8 & 10) April 14 – May 14 In – person only

 

PALS                                (K4 – 2) April 19 – June 4 Virtual and In – person

 

ACT Aspire                     (9 – 10) April 26 – May 19 In – person only

 

ACCESS for ELLS         (K5 -12) April 14 – May 21 In – person only

 

Civics                               (9 – 12) Ongoing In – person or Virtual       

 

Dynamic Learning Maps  (3 – 11) April 14 – May 14 In – person or Virtual

 

For more information on the assessments your child takes in MPS, please visit www.mpsmke.com/assessment and download a copy of A Parent’s Guide to Assessment.

If you have any further questions or concerns, please contact your child’s school or the Department of Research, Assessment and Data at (414) 475-8258.

 

---

PTO Fundraiser Reminder

If you haven’t already, please get registered for the PTO Fundraiser. 

This is an online sale only. Please do not send orders to school.

See instructions on how to register below.

Download the PDF of this reminder HERE

 

 

 

---

Summer Academy / Summer School Registration Reminder

Get ready for Summer Academy! Visit mpsmke.com/summeracademy for all the details.

Grades K5-8: Session runs June 22 to July 29 from 8:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.   Fernwood Montessori will be a Summer Academy site for K5-6th grade students, so there is Montessori Summer school if parents choose that option. Students in grades 6-8 can participate in the Summer Academy Exploration Camp or choose other program options.
K5-8th Grade Registration (Registration will close on Monday, June 7, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. )
https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/9d632fa5051e4bb5aaa0b6eb20e5750f

 

High School students can catch up on credits or get ahead. 
Two sessions are available from 8:30 A.M. to 12:30 P.M.:

• June 7-July 2 (Registration for the June session will close on Friday, May 14, 2021 at 11:59 p.m)
• July 6-July 29 

High School Registration: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/7987432c41824d749bdb652ece3b4bff

---

Meal Program Reminders

Virtual Students & Remote Learning Days: 

• Pre Ordered meals will be available for pick-up at most MPS schools on school days between 9:00 am and 10:00 am. 
• Pre Ordered meals will consist of one breakfast, one lunch, two 8 oz milks. 
  • Meals must be ordered 7 business days prior to the start of the meal pick up period.
• Meal orders, including special dietary needs meals, can be placed using the online pre order form: http://bit.ly/MPSMealOrder

 

In-Person Students 

• Students attending in-person school will receive breakfast and lunch on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday
• Pre-ordering is available for Wednesday pick-up. 
• Meal substitutions will be provided to students with Special Dietary Needs forms on file. 
  • If your student has a new or updated special dietary need, please complete the MPS Special Dietary Needs: Eating and Feeding Evaluation Form and email it to dasjl@milwaukee.k12.wi.us.
  • If your student has life threatening food allergies with anaphylactic reactions, please inform your school and classroom teacher. 

Download the flyer here: Meal Program Updates Spring 2021.pdf

Important Dates

Monday, April 19th
In-person learning will begin for 4th-8th grade students who have selected to be in person.

Reopening Parent/Guardian Info Session
Wednesday, April 21st from 2-3PM for 9-12 grade families only.
Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/fxi-jktm-iid

SEC Meeting
April 21, 2021 from 5-5:30 PM
Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/chh-jpsd-zws

PTO Meeting
April 21, 2021 from 5:30-6:30 PM
Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/sei-thzt-skw

Monday, April 26th
In-person learning will begin for 9-12th grade students for those who have selected to be in person.

School News

School Handbook
Attached below you will find the MacDowell Montessori COVID-19 Handbook, which communicates with you our most up-to-date plan for the remainder of the 20-21 school year. Please review this handbook to understand our new procedures.
Link to MacDowell Handbook HERE

Ms. Claudine has emailed a letter to all parents and guardians confirming their student(s) designation of in person or virtual. The subject of this email was ‘Reopening Assignment Confirmation’. Please check your email for this information.

Covid-19 testing forms were sent home with in-person K3-3rd grade students on Wednesday and will be sent home again on 4/16. Please have your child return these forms to their teacher as soon as possible. Covid-19 testing will begin the week of April 19th. Thank you.

Yearbook Reminder
This is a reminder that we will have a yearbook this year and that we need your help!

HOW TO SUBMIT
Yearbook Photo Submission deadline is APRIL 19

• K3-6th grade students: Please email photos to Ms. Claudine with the Subject Line ‘Yearbook’ to nuetzeca@milwaukee.k12.wi.us
• 7th – 8th-grade students: Please submit your Yearbook photo to your Seminar Classroom
• 9-11th Grade Yearbook Photo Submission HERE
• 12th Grade Yearbook Photo Submission HERE

What are we looking for?
Priority #1 is school pictures for the classroom/grade level pages. Please make sure that the student’s photo is as clear as possible. Looking for tips in taking a class photo at home? Click HERE

For school photos please use the Lifetouch Snaps @ Home link to create your yearbook photo (blue/free background) and then submit it. https://lifetouch.com/picture-day-snaps-at-home/

Families should be aware that they do not have to pay for a photo to get their child’s photo in the yearbook. We are requesting a photo for K3-11th grade students with the blue (free) background for uniformity. Simply screenshot or download the image from Snaps @ Home and submit it to us. If you do want to pay for photos, the information is below.

We would also love to have photos of:
-Virtual field trips
-Students at work
-Practical life
-First day of school pictures
-Mask selfies
-Student hobbies
-Students and their pets

PICTURE DAY SNAPS @ HOME INFO
Lifetouch + Shutterfly have come together to offer a program called Picture Day Snaps @Home. This year only, through the convenience of the Shutterfly app, you can capture a quick snap, add your favorite Lifetouch background and order a picture package all while @home!

How Picture Day Snaps works:

1. Download the Shutterfly app and create an account. Shutterfly App link HERE
2. Select a picture package. Packages start as low as 4.99 not including shipping
3. Smile! Snap a quick pic or upload a photo from your Photo Library
4. Customize your image with your favorite background.
5. Order your picture package. Picture packages are shipped directly to your home.

MacDowell has applied for candidacy and has been accepted as a candidate for the IB Middle Years Program! (Grades 7-10)

For more information read our IB Program updates below.

IB Program Updates
Coordinator: Nick Beermann beermany@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

Greetings from the Coordinator
The purpose of this monthly column is to update you on the International Baccalaureate Program and generally what our Juniors and Seniors are up to. I intend to spend some time each newsletter to brief you on a component of the IB program.

MacDowell seeking authorization for the Middle Years Program
The Montessori high school Diploma Program (DP) has been in existence since 2006 and at MacDowell since 2012. We are now working towards adding an IB Middle Years Program (MYP) to our adolescent program for grades 7-10. This will help us achieve two goals: 1. Create a more continuous, consistent curriculum across our entire adolescent program and 2. To better prepare our students for the Diploma Program at 11th and 12th grade. This authorization process started in January and will continue through the end of next school year. In that time, teachers will undergo loads of professional development and common planning to bring our curriculum in line with the IB evaluation and course standards.

What does this mean for our students?
All 7-10th grade students will begin taking IB Middle Years courses in the Fall of 2021. Because we are an MYP Candidate, students will be required to take a foreign language as a core curriculum. As a result, we will be hiring a part-time Spanish Teacher. Students will be required to take project-based courses as a part of the MYP program and will complete a Community Project in their 8th grade year, and a personal project in their 10th grade year to complete the Middle Years Program.

How will the program change with the addition of the MYP?
The Montessori Philosophy and IB Pedagogy are very compatible, which makes the development of our classes to fit the IB MYP scheme very seamless. Students will see changes to the grading standards and some curriculum changes; it will all be in an effort to create more cross curricular connections and consistency in expectations as they move from grade to grade. Students will also see the addition of a “design” curriculum which will introduce them to design principles and project cycles. This curriculum will form the basis for the “PBL” class in middle school and specific “design” classes in 9th and 10th grade. Finally, the MYP includes two major projects. In 8th grade, students will complete the “Community Project” where students will design and implement a large service project. In 10th grade, students complete the “Personal Project” where students will design and implement a project that they are personally interested in.

What’s going in IB right now?
Seniors: April will be the busiest month for our IB Testers this year. Students have been working away on science experiments, historical investigations and mathematical analysis. April is when the “Internal Assessments” are submitted, typically consisting of a paper for each class they are testing in. Due to the pandemic our students are not taking the exams in May, so the Internal Assessments make up the bulk of their assessment score for IB.

Juniors: The IB teachers are working hard to engage students at a high level with the curriculum and planning for the return to the classroom for many of our students. Students are taking “Theory of Knowledge” to explore the philosophy of knowing. Teachers have also been holding extra “IB” sessions on Wednesday to review material and begin preparing students for the examination process next year.

Special Education Leadership Institute for Families
Families, students, and staff are invited to join us for 90 minutes each Tuesday evening for six weeks, April 20 – May 25, 2021. MPS will offer valuable training and classes to help parents, guardians, and family members gain the insight and skills needed to ensure their child succeeds in school. Topics include Individualized Education Programs (IEP), rights and responsibilities, and student conduct. Attend all sessions or select individual sessions that are appropriate
to your unique needs. MPS will host daily virtual meetings on Zoom from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Register at: https://tinyurl.com/SELIF2021

See flyer with dates and full details.
Meal Program Updates
The Department of Nutrition Services is committed to providing healthy meals at no charge to anyone age 18 and under, regardless if they attend remote or in-person learning. Below is a summary of upcoming changes that affect MPS meal service.
Stop, Grab, and Go locations and weekend meal bundles ended on 4/1/21.
In-person and pre-order meals will replace Stop, Grab, and Go meal service.

In-Person Students

• Students attending in-person school will receive breakfast and lunch on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday
• Pre-ordering is available for Wednesday pick-up.
• Meal substitutions will be provided to students with Special Dietary Needs forms on file.
• If your student has a new or updated special dietary need, please complete the MPS Special Dietary Needs: Eating and Feeding Evaluation Form and email it to dasjl@milwaukee.k12.wi.us.
• If your student has life threatening food allergies with anaphylactic reactions, please inform your school and classroom teacher.

Remote Students & Remote Learning Days:

• Pre Ordered meals will be available for pick-up at most MPS schools on school days between 9:00 am and 10:00 am.
• Pre Ordered meals will consist of one breakfast, one lunch, two 8 oz milks.
• Meals must be ordered 7 business days prior to the start of the meal pick up period.
• Meal orders, including special dietary needs meals, can be placed using the online pre order form: http://bit.ly/MPSMealOrder

Download the flyer here: Meal Program Updates Spring 2021.pdf

School Calendar for the 2021-22 School Year

Downloadable PDF can be found HERE
Mark your calendars!

The first day of school will be August 16th, 2021

MPS School Calendars on the MPS Website HERE