Dear Families,
Over the last few weeks, we have had some visitors at the Bates School. Many of our visitors were prospective families, some were BPS district personnel, and a few were alum! One thing they all had in common was their love of and for the Bates School. Prospective parents were thrilled to see our kindergarteners working in groups and pairs. They were impressed by our very talented 3-5th-grade student leaders that gave tours to groups of parents and answered their questions. Visitors from the district commented on the beautiful artwork and school work displayed in the hallways. They were taken aback by our students’ ability to ask challenging questions and rise to the occasion when given rigorous tasks. Former students also came by to see their favorite school with their favorite educators. We know that the Bates is and will continue to be a gem of a community, thanks to you and the strong partnership we have with families! It is because of this partnership that our students trust us and are able to lead by example.
Before and Aftercare for K1 in 2018-2019?
If you are expecting to have a child in Bates K1 next year and are interested in sending him or her to the YMCA before and/or after-school program, please email jocmarshall@gmail.com .With enough K1 family interest, the YMCA may be open to enrolling 4-year-olds for the 2018-2019 school year.
Lost and Found
Our lost and found is filling up on the first floor by the cafeteria. If you find that your child is missing a sweater, scarf, hat, or another article of outerwear, please have them check the lost and found. As done in past years, we will donate leftover clothing from the lost and found.
City Connects Partnership
Thank you to all the families that have sent or signed statements of support for our partnership with City Connects. This year the school district is using an opportunity index (OI) to distribute partnership fund in a more equitable manner. Based on the OI, the Bates School does not qualify for funding to sustain our City Connects partnership. However, we are looking into creative ways to fund and keep this partnership at the Bates. Thank you, SSC members for meeting twice this month to review the budget. If you have any questions, please email me or call the school.
Making Music Matters 3rd grade
The 3rd grade will have a mini-concert on Tuesday, Jan. 23 at 10 am. Families are invited! Note that these mini concerts usually last between 15-20 minutes.
Family Culture Night is March 8
Family Culture Night is BACK! Please save the date of Thursday, March 8 from 5:30-7:30pm, for an evening celebrating Bates School families’ favorite foods, music, games, dress and more. Look for more information in your child’s backpack soon. If anyone is interested in being on a committee to help out with Family Culture Night, please contact co-organizers Meg Skaar at megskaar@gmail.com and Kristen Bonstein at kristenbonstein@gmail.com.
Sincerely,
Rodolfo Morales, Principal
Phineas Bates Elementary School 