Covington Howler May 2, 2017
Covington Elementary commits to a high level of learning for every student and adult. Together we foster a safe culture, where we learn actively and collaboratively, think creatively and critically, develop perseverance, live respectfully and responsibly, and contribute positively to our diverse community and beyond. |
IMPORTANT DATES
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Message from the Principal |
Dear Covington Community, With the arrival of May this week, we’ve entered a unique time during a school year. We’ve reached a nexus where we simultaneously work on end of the year projects and prepare for the upcoming school year. It’s a busy time! One of the important pieces of work that lies ahead for our staff is the building of next year’s classes. The time and thoughtfulness put in by grade level teachers as they create class lists for the upcoming year is impressive. Teachers work to build heterogeneous classes that factor in such elements as learning styles, friendships, genders, and a list of many more factors. Watching this work, as teachers pour hours into the process, is an affirmation to the dedication of the teachers and how well they know their students. The process takes several sessions and isn’t really totally complete until the class lists are posted on Monday, August 14th. My experience tells me that teachers are the best ones to build the classes. They spend the most time with their students and understand each student’s needs the best. Parents, in the past, have been able to give input, through a form in the office. However, this year, we are asking for parent input differently, as we are doing away with the input form. If you have input to give your child’s current teacher, we are asking you to give that input to the teacher directly- either in an email or a meeting. Parent input that is helpful for us to know includes information on how you see your child’s learning style. It is not appropriate to request a certain teacher. We request that you refrain from doing that as we cannot guarantee such a request can be granted. Staffing for next year is not finalized so making a teacher request is not practical for that reason alone. If you find it necessary, you may also set up a meeting with me or email me directly with your input regarding placement for next year. Please know that class building is something we take very seriously. We want the best for ALL of our students and we know that building classes is a critical piece to their success. Regards, Wade Spenader- Principal |
Opt In to Important Text Messages |
How would the school relay critical information to you if there was a power outage? Sending a school-wide email blast isn’t an option in that situation. However, there is a way you can get critical information via text. Our effective home-school partnership hinges on consistent and strong communication. As we move forward to strengthen communication, LASD is excited to launch a new communication service that will allow us to communicate with you via SMS text messaging. This service will be used to enhance our existing methods of communication and will be used only to provide information that is timely and relevant such as emergency notifications and minimum day reminders. In order to participate in the new service you must indicate your willingness to receive text messages via your phone. Please note, although the district does not charge for this service, normal text message charges may apply according to your wireless contract. To opt in just send “Y” or “YES” to 67587.
You can opt out anytime by replying to one of our messages with ‘stop.” |
Multicultural Fair This Friday! |
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LAEF |
Spring Music Concerts Are Coming: May 10th-19th
“I would teach children music, physics, and philosophy; but most importantly music, for the patterns in music and all the arts are the keys to learning.” ― Plato. LAEF is proud to sponsor LASD Music for grades 4-6. Join us and enjoy classical pieces, folk songs, popular music, and film favorites. Fourth graders will be singing and playing their recorders. Fifth graders will have their 1st full ensemble performance in the band, orchestra, or chorus. Sixth will have their final performance in the band, orchestra, or chorus. For more information, please go to ttp://www.losaltos.k12.ca.us/ |
Egan Needs Volunteers |
Volunteer for Egan’s Viking Showcase - June 1, 2017. Egan's VIKING SHOWCASE is coming on Thursday, June 1, and we need your help! Previously known as Portfolio Day, the Viking Showcase provides the opportunity for our 8th grade students to reflect on their personal and academic growth and to receive acknowledgment for their work. This is accomplished in an interview format. We welcome parents and community members to volunteer as interviewers. The interview process increases student motivation, builds a sense of accomplishment, and fosters community involvement with the school. Past participants have truly enjoyed this invaluable experience. Please save the date and sign up to volunteer at Viking Showcase Volunteer. Confirmation emails will be sent once we have assigned all volunteers. See Egan’s website for more information: Viking Showcase. If you have any questions, please contact Gayle Mujica at gaylemujica@mac.com or Susan Cook at Susanlyanecook@gmail.com
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LASD & COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS |
School & Community News now found via Peachjar:https://www.peachjar.com/ |
How to Submit an Article to the Covington Howler |
Post an Announcement in the Howler? If you have an announcement to include in Howler, please send it to sevard@lasdschools.org. Announcements must be received by 12:00pm on Friday in order to be considered for the Howler scheduled for the following Tuesday. |