River Birch Insider
May 21, 2021
I have been extremely fortunate to serve in public education for almost 20 years and my next step will allow me to continue serving students and communities in Indiana. Starting on July 1, I will be the Chief Education Officer for Gibraltar Design. This position will involve helping Gibraltar lead the design process of school construction and renovation across Indiana.
I will have special time with the students to close out the school year, but I wanted this message to specifically thank our River Birch families. Thank you for your partnership and support in making this a wonderful school for our students over the years. I have had the pleasure of watching your children learn and grow into the leaders that will make our community, state, and world a better place. I am excited to hear of what they accomplish!
Dr. Wyndham will begin the process of selecting who will have the honor to be the next principal of this amazing school. I am extremely confident in the continued success and next steps for this school community. Avon Community School Corporation is truly a place that leads with heart, and I thank them from the bottom of mine for allowing me to be a part of this great community.
Sincerely,
Mr. Kingery
Summer Counseling Support Available
The district was awarded a grant from the United Way/Lilly Endowment to provide responsive supports to students focusing on mental health and learning loss. These summer check-ins are one way that we will provide support to students while we are away from school.
Here is a brief overview of how that support will look:
- I will commit to checking in with your student virtually once a week for 6 weeks.
- Check ins would last 20-30 minutes per student.
- Check ins would look similar to:
- Review last week
- Discuss any challenges or successes
- Discuss 1 coping strategy
- Look ahead to upcoming week
- Identify any speed bumps or potential problems
If you are interested in this support for your student, please click the button below to contact Ms. Kopke directly. A consent form will be sent home with your child next week.
Contact Ms. Kopke
Ms. Kopke's Spring Mindfulness Room
STEM For Elementary Schools
Beginning next school year, all K-4 students will engage in STEM and Innovation learning opportunities during their related arts rotation. While this has been in place at River Birch for a few years already, starting next year ALL elementary students will have this opportunity. There are many benefits to STEM education. Here are a few of them:
· Improve creativity
· Increase collaboration and communication skills
· Empower critical thinking skills
· Boost curiosity
· Explore STEM careers at an early age
2021-2022 Virtual Learning
At this time decisions are being made as to the capacity and scope of our virtual learning program for grades K-12 for the 2021-2022 school year. There will be a virtual learning option for Kindergarten through 12th grade. Currently we are finalizing our detailed plan which includes an application process. Once all information is reviewed the decision will be communicated throughout the district. Thank you for your patience as we navigate decisions regarding the upcoming 2021-2022 School Year. Click the photo to learn more.
Honor An Educator with the AEF
Parents, here's a great opportunity to express your appreciation to a teacher who means a lot to you and your child. You may purchase a sign for $10 to honor their favorite educator and AEF will place it at the teacher's school on your behalf. Proceeds benefit the AEF's grant program.
Click the photo to order a sign today!
Summer Camps & Community Events
Walk-In Immunization Clinic
The Hendricks County Health Department is offering an immunization clinic on June 3 in partnership with the Indiana Immunization Coalition at the Hendricks County Government Center. The clinic runs from noon to 6:00 pm. (Note: This is not a COVID vaccine clinic.) Click the photo to learn more and to register.
Facilities to Host Surplus Furniture Sale
The ACSC Facilities Department is holding a surplus furniture sale at Hickory, Pine Tree, Sycamore, and White Oak. The sale will run from 8 am-noon on June 4. Browse a wide variety of items that have usefulness beyond their service in Avon Schools. Cash and checks are accepted while supplies last.
Click the picture for more information.
May 27: Last Student Day
July 29: First Day of the 2021-2022 School Year!
Vision
Educate. Excite. Excel.
The students of River Birch Elementary have access to the education every child needs along with the learning and life experiences they deserve, so they can succeed today and tomorrow.
Mission
River Birch Learning Leaders create a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment that provides opportunities for learning and leadership through interdisciplinary experiences supported by strong relationships with students, family, and community.
Beliefs
The River Birch Way promotes community, collaboration, and a safe and productive learning environment. The River Birch Way says that as leaders we are:
Safe: Students at River Birch Elementary keep their hands and feet to themselves, use materials and equipment as instructed, and follow emergency procedures led by their teachers.
Respectful: Students at River Birch Elementary show whole body listening, follow the River Birch Rules, and are kind to others.
Responsible: Students at River Birch Elementary take ownership of their actions.
Leaders: Students at River Birch Elementary find their voice by using the 7 Habits of Happy Kids to be their best selves in school, at home, and in our community.
River Birch Elementary
Principal
Mrs. Heather Gorgas, HMGorgas@avon-schools.org
Assistant Principal
Ms. Kyle Kopke, KEKopke@avon-schools.org
Counselor
Email: hmgorgas@avon-schools.org
Website: avon-schools.org/riverbirch
Location: 5456 East County Road 75 North, Avon, IN, USA
Phone: 317.544.6800
Facebook: facebook.com/RiverBirch.Elem
Twitter: @RiverBirch_Elem