The Lion's Roar
McAvinnue's Weekly Newsletter: Week Of May 10th
MCAVINNUE'S PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE
Hello McAvinnue Community...and Happy Mother's Day!
First, I wanted to wish all of the mother's in the McAvinnue community a very happy and special Mother's Day! Today is your day....take it easy and put you feet up and enjoy this day that is all about you!
Here is a brief history of Mother's Day and how it all came about...some interest information for sure!
Mother’s Day is a holiday honoring motherhood that is observed in different forms throughout the world. In the United States, Mother’s Day 2021 will occur on Sunday, May 9th. The origins of Mother’s Day as celebrated in the United States date back to the 19th century. In the years before the Civil War, Ann Reeves Jarvis of West helped start “Mothers’ Day Work Clubs” to teach local women how to properly care for their children.
These clubs later became a unifying force in a region of the country still divided over the Civil War. In 1868 Jarvis organized “Mothers’ Friendship Day,” at which mothers gathered with former Union and Confederate soldiers to promote reconciliation.
Celebrations of mothers and motherhood can be traced back to the ancient Greeks and Romans, who held festivals in honor of the mother goddesses Rhea and Cybele, but the clearest modern precedent for Mother’s Day is the early Christian festival known as “Mothering Sunday.”
Once a major tradition in the United Kingdom and parts of Europe, this celebration fell on the fourth Sunday in Lent and was originally seen as a time when the faithful would return to their “mother church”—the main church in the vicinity of their home—for a special service.
Over time the Mothering Sunday tradition shifted into a more secular holiday, and children would present their mothers with flowers and other tokens of appreciation. This custom eventually faded in popularity before merging with the American Mother’s Day in the 1930s and 1940s.
Here are a few dates for you to note and mark your calendars:
- Wednesday, May 12th: Early Release Day - Student Dismissal @ 1:30 PM
- Thursday, May 13th: McAvinnue's School Site Council Meeting @ 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
- Friday, May 21st: Picture Day
- Monday, May 30th - No School: Observance Of Memorial Day
- Wednesday, June 16th: Last Day Of School
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact the Main Office at McAvinnue or send Mr. Domina a message a mdomina@lowell.k12.ma.us.
Arrival & Dismissal Reminders
- Please wear a mask when coming to the school. If you are out of your car on school grounds during arrival and dismissal everyone 3 years and older should be wearing a mask.
- During arrival, please follow the directions of the faculty that are located at each of the 4 entry doors ways. Students will need to sanitize their hands before entering the building.
- On the 4th Avenue side of the school, please do not double park your car. Mr. Domina will support getting your child out of your vehicle...so, there's no need walk your child to their assigned entry doorway.
- Please do not park in the bus lanes which are on located on the parking lot side of the building. Student drop off is NOT permitted in this area during both drop off and dismissal times.
- During dismissal, please park your car on the 4th Avenue side of the school when picking up your child. You can also park on the surrounding streets if things are full. Please keep in mind that the earlier that you arrive for pick-up...the greater the chance you will have to secure a parking spot.
If you have any questions about these procedures, please reach out Mr. Domina at mdomina@lowell.k12.ma.us or your child's teacher directly.
Here are important dates to remember over the next month of school:
- Wednesday, May 12th: Early Release Day - Student Dismissal @ 1:30 PM
- Thursday, May 13th: McAvinnue's School Site Council Meeting @ 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
- Tuesday, May 25th: ELA MCAS Testing: Grade 3
- Wednesday, May 26th: ELA MCAS Testing: Grade 4
- Thursday, May 27th: ELA MCAS Remote Testing: Grade 3
- Friday, May 28st: ELA MCAS Remote Testing: Grade 4
- Thursday, May 20th: McAvinnue's School Site Council Meeting @ 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
- Friday, May 21st: Picture Day
- Tuesday, June 1st: Math MCAS Testing: Grade 3
- Wednesday, June 2nd: Math MCAS Testing: Grade 4
- Thursday, June 3rd: Math MCAS Remote Testing: Grade 3
- Friday, June 4th: Math MCAS Remote Testing: Grade 4
- Monday, May 30th - No School: Observance Of Memorial Day
- Wednesday, June 16th: Last Day Of School
Early Release Day: Wednesday, May 12th
Student Dismissal @ 1:30 PM
McAvinnue's School Site Council Meeting
You will be able to access the meeting agenda as well as the Zoom link by clicking below. This information will be posted on Wednesday, May 12, 2021
Kindergarten Registration Begins May 3rd
The Lowell Public Schools Kindergarten registration period for the upcoming 2021-2022 school year will start Monday, May 3rd. Children turning 5 years old on or before September 1, 2021 are eligible to register for kindergarten. Even if your child is currently enrolled in a LPS Preschool program you still need to register for Kindergarten.
Kindergarten Registration Period
The Kindergarten registration period will go from May 3rd - July 25th and will be split into 3 rounds:
- Round 1 - Register between May 3rd and May 23rd to be eligible for the 1st lottery on June 9, 2021
- Round 2 - Register between May 24th and June 20st to be eligible for the 2nd lottery on July 7, 2021
- Round 3 - Register between June 21st and July 25th to be eligible for the final lottery on August 4, 2021
We encourage families to register during the 1st round of registration (May 3rd - May 23rd). While we can't guarantee placement in your preferred school, being eligible for the 1st lottery increases your chances of getting the seat of your choice. For more information about kindergarten registration, please visit our website: www.lowell.k12.ma.us/kindergartenregistration
UPDATE: MCAS Update: Grades 3 & 4
Here is the updated testing schedule that McAvinnue will follow during the month of May:
- Tuesday, May 25th: ELA MCAS Testing: Grade 3
- Wednesday, May 26th: ELA MCAS Testing: Grade
- Thursday, May 27th: ELA Remote MCAS Testing: Grade 3
- Friday, May 28th: ELA Remote MCAS Testing: Grade 4
- Tuesday, June 1st: Math MCAS Testing: Grade 3
- Wednesday, June 2nd: Math MCAS Testing: Grade 4
- Thursday, June 3rd: Math Remote MCAS Testing: Grade 3
- Friday, June 4th: Math Remote MCAS Testing: Grade 4
Stay tuned as these dates are subject to change. More information to follow over the next few weeks.
MCAS Opt-Out
Parents have the option to have their child "officially" Opt-Out of having their child participate in the MCAS Assessment for this school year.
If you would like to opt-out of MCAS, you can:
- Write a letter or email to me (mdomina@lowell.k12.ma.us) or your child's teacher requesting an opt out of the ELA and Math Exam this year.
- Please fill out the form below and send it to the school. This form is mostly for high school but can also be used Grade 3 and Grade 4.
Please keep in mind that your child will be held harmless if you choose to opt out of MCAS testing for this school year ONLY.
McAvinnue's Picture Day: Friday, May 21st
In-person students will take their pictures during the school day and we will follow all approved COVID-19 safety precautions. Remote students will take their pictures after school on this day starting at 3:45 PM.
We will send home the picture order form with in-person students when they are delivered to the school. Remote students will be able to pick up the picture order form at the school when they come for their photo session.
More information to come over the next few weeks.
lowell public schools racial justice series part II
Part Two of Lowell Public Schools' Racial Justice series will focus on listening to and understanding the lived experiences of our Asian American community members and their experiences with racism and discrimination.
The Office of Equity and Engagement is currently looking for AAPI community members who would like to share a "personal story" of racism that they experienced at one of the sessions listed below. If you are willing to share a personal story please email mdomina@lowell.k12.ma.us by Friday, May 14th.
The entire school community is invited to attend these listening sessions and you do not have had to go to Part I of the series to attend Part II. Registration information and Zoom links will be added to this post when they are made available.
Schedule for Listening Sessions:
- 5/19 from 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM for Elementary level families
- 5/20 from 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM for Middle School level families
- 5/27 from 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM for High School level families
New Student Registration Information
Registration is now open for all students new to the district in Grades K-12.
There are three ways families may register:
- Registration via Computer (recommended): Click on this link. This will take you to the Aspen registration portal. You will need to create an account with Aspen before entering your child’s information. For help with creating an account, click here. Please note that this option is only compatible with a desktop or laptop.
- Registration In-Person: Come into the Family Resource Center, located at 151 Merrimack Street, to use a computer and fill out the form. The Family Resource Center is open Monday through Friday from 7am until 4pm each day. Please note that the last walk-in registration can be started at 3:40pm. However, after-hours appointments will be available if scheduled in advance. In order to minimize wait time for in-person registrants, we encourage you to call 978-674-4321 to schedule an appointment since the office is limited to 21 guests due to social distancing guidelines.
- Registration for Mobile Devices: Email familyresourcecenter@lowell.k12.ma.us to request an online registration form that is compatible with mobile devices like a phone or tablet. Families can also call 978-674-4321 to discuss any need for support or accommodations.
Transfer Information
Family Resource is now accepting requests for transfers for next school year. Families may call 978-674-4321 or email familyresourcecenter@lowell.k12.ma.us to make their request. The deadline for requests is May 21st.
LPSD Pooled Testing Information & Consent Form
We are continuing to offer voluntary free weekly COVID-19 testing. This testing will lower the risk of spread of COVID-19 by helping to identify those positive cases in people who do not show any symptoms of COVID-19. Testing will be conducted on Wednesday each week.
We hope that you will participate by signing a consent form for your child. The more students and faculty who participate, the safer our schools will be!
We have created an easy to use newsletter that contains the following information:
- What is the COVID-19 testing program?
- How can my student participate in the program?
- Online consent form translated in multiple languages
- How does it work?
If you have any questions, please contact Nurse Robin at rmcneil@lowell.k12.ma.us, The Family Resource Center at (978) 674-432 or The Equity and Engagement Office at (978) 674-4326.
You can access the Pooled Testing newsletter using the link below that includes the online consent form.
LPSD School Calendar 2021-2022 School Year
Please click the link below for the recently approved LPSD School Calendar for the 2021-2022 school year.
Change Of Address Form
McAvinnue's "Virtual" Morning Announcements
Missed McAvinnue's "Virtual" Morning Announcements? You can watch the videos on the McAvinnue's Learner's Google Site and on McAvinnue's YouTube page. Links can be found below for each.
These announcements bring the in-person and remote students together in the usual way we launch each day of school with some important information...while having some fun!
Google Learner's Site:
https://sites.google.com/view/mcavinnueelementaryschool/home?authuser=0
YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAUzGwuFaKMy13iFbHpSiMw?view_as=subscriber
McAvinnue's Week In Review!
McAvinnue's "Jiji" ST Math Day!
"Good News" in Room 209i!
Online Emergency Contact Form
Due to the uncertainty of this school year and limiting access to the building, we have created an online emergency form for you to complete below. Using the same form, we have provided information in both English and Spanish for your convenience.
You can complete this form or complete a paper copy that we have used in previous school years. This form will be sent home with those students that will be at McAvinnue for in-person learning. However, the paper copy of the emergency form can also be picked up at McAvinnue for those families who will be working remotely to start the school year.
PLEASE COMPLETE ONE FOR EACH CHILD ENROLLED AT MCAVINNUE!
If you could like a paper copy of the emergency form, please contact Ms. Nancy in the Main Office and she will set you up with what you need to complete.
If you have changed any numbers or have new primary care providers that you would like to add, please complete the form below or reach out to us with this new information. It's important to do this as we start to return to students to in-person learning for the second half for this school year.
Remote Daily Meal Service: Spring 2021
- Students will receive two breakfasts and two lunches on Mondays and Wednesdays at these sites.
- Students will also receive meals for the weekend days on Fridays at all of our meal sites.
- All LPS students are eligible for meal service. All meals are free of cost. No student ID is required and students don’t have to be present to pick up a meal. A parent or neighbor can pick up the student’s meal.
- Meals will be served outside in a grab and go format at the front or back of the school, depending on the location.
- Please remember to wear a mask or face covering and follow social distancing protocols when visiting the meal sites.
Any updates to the remote learning meal service schedule will be posted here:
McAvinnue's Yoga Pose Of The Week: "Eagle"
We will try another new pose this week called the "Eagle". This new pose will allow us to work on maintaining a clam and clear focus using a technique that maximize balance integration and unique upper body positioning. We will practice the "Eagle" pose daily during our "Virtual" Morning Announcements during this up and coming week. You can get an early head start and practice this technique before we launch into another exciting week!
WE'VE GOT TECH SUPPORT FOR YOU!
McAvinnue's Virtual & In-Person Learning And Information Spot For Students
Click The Button Below To Access The Site
Lowell Public School District Tech Support - Week Of May 10th
The LPSD IT Team will continue have a "Technology Tent" set-up at the following locations during the times listed below this up and coming week. No appointment is necessary and you can pick which location works best for you.
- Tuesday, May 11th @ 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM - Reilly Elementary School (115 Douglas Rd. - rear door facing rear parking lot)
- Thursday, May 13th from 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM at the Stoklosa Middle School (560 Broadway St. - side door facing parking lot)
Bring the charger for the device that you need support with.
You can also contact the Help Desk at (978) 674-2024 for assistance.
HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES
COVID-19 Data & Guidelines
Due to some technical difficulties on the state's COVID-19 database, there isn't any available data to share for effective on Thursday, May 6th.
This section will be updated if and when the technical difficulties have been fully resolved. Please check back this week for any updates that may be available.
COVID-19 Vaccine Local Opportunities
FAMILY INFORMATION & RESOURCES
PBS KIDS: Race & Equity
Click the picture below to access great resources that you can use with your child when speaking to them about race, racism, and equity!
The program will be in-person this year following social distancing and mask wearing guidelines. Students will be provided with lunch. It is open to all McAvinnue 4th Grade students.
Check out the pictures below for more information and click the button to sign-up. There are only 67 slots and they are being assigned first come first served.
For more information or questions you may have, please email Mr. Stahl at mstahl@lowell.k12.ma.us. for support and clarification.
Summer Opportunities In Lowell
Download the list below to see all of the great summer opportunities available to our kids and families!
The Greater Boston Food Bank
The Greater Boston Food Bank will be at the STEM Academy (43 Highland Street) will take place from 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM. You can begin to line up starting at 1:30 PM.
The next food pantry is Tuesday, May 11th. Other dates for this school year are listed on the flyer.
This food pantry is a drive-up distribution of assorted foods for all Lowell Public School students and their families. All food bank clients are required to wear a mask to ensure the safety of our volunteers as well as other clients and community members. Please bring reusable grocery bags, baskets, or a cart to carry your food.
Please see the flyer below for more details.
Additional Food Pantry Opportunities
You can also contact Mrs. De La Luz directly for support at adelaluz@lowell.k12.ma.us
Community Connections & Daycare Options for Families
Here is a list of daycare options in Lowell:
Community Team Work (CTI) (978) 454-5100
Families who are already enrolled in a CTI program...
Call or text school-age coordinators to request a slot
Billy 978-995-0028, wma@commteam.org
Karen 978-729-7216, kshannon@commteam.org
CTI will have full and half day slots for CTI kids
Families who are not enrolled in a CTI program
If you’ve filled out a CTI application in the past...
Contact Karen (978) 729-7216, kshannon@commteam.org to see if where you are on the waitlist
If you’ve never filled out a CTI application...
Fill out an application at 17 Kirk St., 126 Phoenix Ave
Or call the main CTI number (978) 454-5100 to request an email version of the application.
YWCA: (978) 454-5405 or (978) 458-9983; 41 Rock St in Lowell
The YWCA is offering full-day remote slots for families who are working with the Department of Children and Families (DCF)
Call your DCF worker and/or the YWCA to request a slot
YMCA: (978) 454-7825; 1 YMCA Dr in Lowell
Karen Espinola is the school-age director
Fill out a application online or at the YMCA to request a slot
Debbie Doben is the preschool director if your child is preschool age
Family Childcare: Call programs to see if they have openings near you
Bethel Family Childcare (978) 458-6577
Clarendon Family Childcare (978) 454-3026
Child Development and Learning (CDE) (978) 275-2843
ACRE Family Childcare (978) 937-5899
CTI: See above contact information
Girls Inc: (978) 458-6529, 220; Worthen St. in Lowell
Accept girls ages 5-14 years old
Accept Child Care Circuit vouchers, DCF vouchers, and private pay (income-based, sliding scale)
Call Pam Lerocque (Director of Finance & Administration) to check on openings
Girls Inc. has full and part-day options, but no transportation
Boys and GIrls Club: (978) 458-4526; 657 Middlesex St in Lowell
School-age openings for after-school only
Teens who are working with the Department of Children and Families can call BGC or DCF to see if they’re eligible
Follow McAvinnue On Social Media
FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/McAvinnueElementarySchool
Twitter: https://twitter.com/McAvinnueLPS
Instagram: http://instragram.com/mcavinnueelementarylps
McAvinnue's Weekly Family Read-Aloud
"Llama Llama Mother's Day Present"
Our Vision
#McAvinnuePride #BeTheDifference #NextLevel
Email: mdomina@lowell.k12.ma.us
Website: https://www.lowell.k12.ma.us/Domain/21
Location: 131 Mammoth Road, Lowell, MA, USA
Phone: (978) 937-2871
Facebook: facebook.com/McAvinnueElementarySchool/
Twitter: @McAvinnueLPS