Tiger Time News
News from the O.C. Taylor Principal, Lisa Young
Young@Heart, February 11, 2018
Dear O.C. Taylor Parents,
Please remember to scroll down and read our PTA newsletter portion and specific grade level newsletters. Click here to see the Tiger Time News, student video version.
Thank you for coming to Kendra Scott last week to help us fund our Future Explorations! Kendra will be donating $826.78 to OCT in the next couple of weeks. Thank you for buying jewelry for the children! We appreciate your support!
To the BEST of days,
Principal Young
Email: lisa.young@gcisd.net
Website: http://www.gcisd-k12.org/site/Default.aspx?PageID=16665
Location: 5300 Pool Road, Colleyville, TX, United States
Phone: (817) 305-4870
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OC-Taylor-Elementary-School-361871583888299/
Twitter: @OCTYoung
OCT Vision: To empower our children today to create a better tomorrow.
OCT Mission: To create life-long learners and develop servant leaders through authentic, real-world experiences.
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Upcoming Dates
Monday, February 12
Cupid Competitions begin on the Taylor Tiger Morning Show
Spinal Screening (5th ) 10:20 - 11:10
Pops for PALS - sold after school thru TTT
Tuesday, February 13
Pops for PALS - sold after school thru TTT
Wednesday, February 14
Class parties 2:00 - 2:55
Yearbook - Group B - 3:00 - 3:45
Thursday, February 15
GCISD Kindness Day
Choir 2:55 - 4:00
Friday, February 16
Future Explorations 2:00 - 2:50
Monday, February 19
NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS (Perfect day to snuggle up and read!)
Tuesday, February 20
Spring Creek BBQ 5:00 - 9:00
Wednesday, February 21
Yearbook - Group A - 3:00 - 3:45
TTT 2:55 - 3:45
Thursday, February 22
Choir 2:55 - 4:00
Friday, February 23
Kindergarten Rodeo Day Parade @ 2:00
Running Club 3:00 - 3:45
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OCT Updates
AN OPPORTUNITY TO THANK ONE OF OUR CROSSING GUARDS
One of our beloved crossing guards who has helped our children navigate safely to school is no longer able to continue. We wanted to invite students to make THANK YOU cards to him or submit a drawing or a picture. Our Mr. Bob continues to be our crossing guard in front of O.C. Taylor, but our crossing guard who patrolled down at the Summertree subdivision that opens up onto Pool Rd., has moved on. Let's send him our best wishes and thank yous for his watchful eye and helpfulness in getting our kids safely to school.
Cards and drawings will be collected in a box in the front office marked "CROSSING GUARD/PTA THANK YOU."
We will collect them all before Friday, March 1st.
Questions? Contact Betsy Dodson at Betsy.Dodson@gmail.com
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Updates from OCT Counselor, Mrs. Whisman
Please click here to see the February Counselor Corner Newsletter.
GCISD will be celebrating KINDNESS DAY on February 15! Kindness Day is to promote kindness, compassion, and respect and to remind our students and community to follow Rachel's Challenge. Our GCISD Rachel’s Challenge Rally will be on April 21, 2018 at CHHS! Start spreading kindness everywhere you go!
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A Note from Art, Mrs. Morgan
Don’t Mess with Texas Art Contest
Students in grades K-12 are invited to participate in this art contest to help promote litter prevention and keep our state of Texas beautiful. Students can create artwork that promotes Keep Texas Beautiful or Don’t Mess with Texas. The entry deadline is April 20, 2018. For more information, please visit the website https://www.ktb.org/don-t-mess-with-texas-art-contest#Entry
Doodle 4 Google
Students in grades K-12 are invited to participate in the Doodle 4 Google contest. The theme for the contest is “what inspires me.” Students can use a variety of materials to create their doodle but it needs to include the letters G-o-o-g-l-e. The entry deadline is March 2nd, 2018. For more information please visit, https://doodles.google.com/d4g/
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Updates from the Learning Commons, Mrs. Bonacci
Our O. C. Taylor Tigers love listening to audiobooks! We have even earned the Tales2Go Top Listener award for listening to a combined total of over 25,000 minutes in one month!
Some students find it difficult to listen to audiobooks at first. They have to learn how to focus on the reader and block out distractions, but it is worth the effort! Studies show that in addition to improving attentiveness, listening to audiobooks also increases comprehension and vocabulary. For more information check out this article from Reading Rocket or visit Tales2Go to download the app and check out their catalog!
Every O. C. Taylor student has 2 licenses for Tales2Go. Students can log in on their school device, AND on their personal devices! Some families like to listen to audiobooks in the car where they enjoy stories together. This year we have also expanded our collection of ebooks and audiobooks through the Overdrive Media app.
Access is easy through the GCISD ClassLink app. This tool makes it easy to see what is available and it uses ONE login.
If you need assistance accessing any of these resources please email me at dawn.bonacci@gcisd.net I am always happy to help!
For information about the Learning Commons Programs and Services visit this link-
https://www.smore.com/wk447-o-c-taylor-learning-commons
Check out our YouTube Channel to see the student version of the Tiger Time News- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNyhxtBhBp-_OPAja5yoffQ
We are still looking for costumes and/or props for our green screen production studio! Thank you so much for all of your support.
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Update from our Clinic, Nurse Katy
- 5th grade parents: Scoliosis (spinal) screenings will be conducted during Specials on Monday February 12th. Parents of girls: Make sure your student wears a bra, sports bra, tube top or bathing suit top underneath their clothing on this day. Remember, unless I have a Doctor's note or a notarized parent note- your student WILL be screened.
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Updates from Gifted and Talented, Mrs. Griffin
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Applications Due
The applications for dual language, STEM programs and tuition-based pre-kindergarten will be open online beginning Friday, February 9, 2018. The application window will remain open until March 9, 2018. If more applications are received than there are available seats, a lottery will be held on March 29, 2018, at 10 am.
Once the application system is open, the application link will be available at this website: http://www.gcisd-k12.org/Domain/3802
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Watch Dogs
We are so excited to have the Watch Dog program back again this year! Thank you to those who have signed up to be a Watch Dog. The process this year is a little different. Here is the form that needs to be submitted along with your background check and t-shirt purchase. Once those things are taken care, Jennifer Howard will send an email with the Signup Genius so you can choose a day to volunteer. We ask that you plan a week in advance when signing up. The calendar will be closed after Friday mornings for the following week to ensure teachers and the volunteers receive schedules. Thank you for understanding and respecting our process and procedure of this program.
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Math Telescoping Exams
Registration for the April 21 Math Telescoping Exams will open on February 22 and close on March 8. Please click here for more information from the district website. Our second testing date will be June 20th with registration from May 3-23, 2018. Click here to read the flyer.
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Colleyville Middle School 6th Grade Informational Night, February 20, 2018
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Cross Timbers Middle School Showcase Open House, February 20, 2018
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FREE GCISD Parent Technology Academy, Feb. 20 at 6:00 p.m.
Take part in what parents are calling:
"Eye-opening event" Danielle D parent of sixth-grade student
"The evening was filled with actionable information for parents raising kids in a digital technology-driven era." Lisa D parent of ninth-grade student
Join us for our next FREE event February 20 at Bear Creek Elementary starting at 6 p.m.
Learn about the must know apps that parents need to be aware of on student phones and more! Learn best practices to balance usage at home as well as ways to help monitor usage. If you have ever wanted to know what that app is your child is using or If its safe to use a particular app, then this is the session for you.
Join the over 200 parents already pre-registered to attend by signing up now!
Session topics will be repeated later in the year so stay and be informed!
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GCISD Nutrition Survey
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GCISD Nutrition Services Farm Fresh Friday, February 23, 2018
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Note from GCISD Nutrition Services
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GCISD is Now Hiring! Join the GCISD TEAM!
Do you know someone ready to join the GCISD Team? Please help spread the word! Great opportunities are available in our auxiliary departments:
- Nutrition Specialists –Part Time with benefits – Work while your students are in school!
- KidzU Extended Care Program Site Aides – Part Time with benefits – Great schedule for local college students!
- Night Custodians
- Bus Drivers & Monitors
- Maintenance Engineers
Apply online at: www.gcisd-k12.org
GCISD is looking for new Subs! Apply Online!
Hey parents and community members! Do you find yourself always on campus volunteering and helping out? Want to be more involved in the classroom and get a paycheck? Then subbing might just be for you!
We are hiring qualified candidates to substitute teach for GCISD. If you are looking to impact kids and help make a difference, we want you! You must have a minimum of 60 college hours to apply. Apply online: www.gcisd-k12.org
If you have any questions, contact erica.pasvar@gcisd.net.
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School Health Advisory Council (SHAC)
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WE NEED YOU TO HELP KEEP O.C. TAYLOR GREAT!
The O.C. Taylor PTA Nominating Committee is gathering the names of people willing to be involved and serve as officers or committee chairpersons during the 2018-2019 school year.
The Parent Teacher Association supports the education of all students, and as you have witnessed, our PTA at O.C. Taylor is very active. Our children benefit from this involvement, and from the many special events and programs that our PTA sponsors. Our school curriculum is enhanced by the Arts & Education program, Environmental Science program, and fun activities like All Decades Night, Fall Festival and the Talent Show. These activities can only continue with the efforts of involved members.
No previous experience is necessary, just a willingness to do quality work. New perspectives and ideas are needed to keep our O.C. Taylor PTA vital. Your support of O.C. Taylor through the PTA is one of the best things you can do for your child.
To express interest in being an officer or committee chairperson on the PTA, please return the PTA Interest Form that will be sent home with your child this week or print a copy of the form here.
Forms must be received by February 23, 2018.
Questions?
Lissa Critz
Nominating Committee Chairperson
CHOCOLATE DECADENCE! LAST CHANCE SIGN-UP!
Please sign up to bring a treat to share (list what your treat will be so we can be sure have a variety). Chocolate Decadence Sign Up
Please drop off your dessert between 7:15 and 8:15 am on Tuesday, February 13, 2018.
Thank you!
Tamaron Hunt
PLEASE DONATE! GALLON-SIZED ZIPLOC BAGS & EARBUDS
As part of our support for Rachel's Challenge, O.C. Taylor has been asked to collect donations of gallon size Ziploc bags and earbuds. All donations will support the 2018-2019 GCISD Back To School Fair.
Please drop all donations in the box in the lobby.
We are excited about the other Rachel's Challenge activities too, including Kindness Day on February 15th and the Fun Run and Rally on April 21st!
Contact OCT Diversity Council Chair, Rebecca Rodriguez at beckeg@yahoo.com with any questions.
Thank you!
WAY TO GO, WALK-TO-SCHOOLERS!
WHEN IS STEALING ENCOURAGED?
Are you trying to decide on a New Year’s resolution? I’ve had a little trouble narrowing down one. From ditching sweets to setting my phone aside, there are plenty of choices for a healthy and productive year.
That’s why a top goal of mine is to be more involved with PTA.
And if you find yourself in a similar boat – too many “need-tos” and “should-dos” – feel free to steal my resolution! (On a side note, my other goals are to do 10 minutes of ab work a day and eat more veggies. Feel free to steal those, too.)
Do you have a similar resolution to be more involved with PTA this year? Do you have a Healthy Lifestyles success story? If so, please share! I would love to hear from you.
Wishing everyone a happy and healthy New Year!
Healthy Lifestyles
Marisa Livingston
REFLECTIONS RECEPTION, Wed. March 7th, 6 - 7:30 pm PDEB
A REFLECTIONS RECEPTION will be held on Wednesday, March 7th at 6:00-7:30p, in the Bronco Bowl Room at the Professional Development Educational Building located at 5600 Colleyville Blvd. Map link is here: http://www.gcisd-k12.org/Page/18852
The Reception is informal, so you may come and go. Light refreshments and pizza will be provided.
We'll have a slideshow of advancing entries to Council
Mr. David Zahrndt, GCISD Fine Arts Director, is our guest speaker.
We are excited about promoting this program so even more students participate next year! Please stop by!
Questions? RSVP Laurie H. Ackermann at :Laurietamar@gmail.com
ATTENTION 5TH GRADE PARENTS!
The Colleyville Middle School PTA and Cross Timbers Middle School PTA are soliciting members and officers for next year's PTA. If interested, fill out the form for the school you will be attending below.
FIRST GRADE SUPPORTS GRACE CEREAL DRIVE!
February is 1st Grade's turn
TO SUPPORT THE GRACE CEREAL DRIVE
Collection baskets will be outside FIRST GRADE classrooms for the month of February. Buy an extra box of cereal and SPREAD THE LOVE!
Questions? Concerns: contact Athena Wiginton at apw@thewigintons.com
APPLE TREE PROJECT
Don't forget the O.C. Taylor Apple Tree! Teachers need items from the Apple Tree. Apple Tree is an easy way to donate items teachers and staff need at the school.
Simply click he link below to see different "needs" around the school. If you choose to help, please make sure to mark as taken! Once taken, please send your item(s) to school with your child, attaching the name of the staff member for who it is intended.
Apple Tree List
Thanks so much! If you have any questions, please contact:
Jenifer Richards – Apple Tree coordinator
Jennifer Ditto - VP Volunteer
February:
2/13 Staff Appreciation Event
2/14 Valentine's Day parties
2/19 Professional Learning Day/Presidents' Day Holiday - No School
2/27 Spring School & Club PIctures
2/28 Boosterthon Pep Rally
March
3/8 6:30 pm Open House
3/9 Boosterthon Fun Run
3/12 - 16 SPRING BREAK
TBD 1st Grade Music Program
3/22 6:30 PTA Pizza & Salad Dinner, Choir Program & Spirit Shop
3/30 No School (if no Inclement Weather Days)
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Thank you!
We think your kids are..... G-G-G-G-reat!
GCISD - Building Excellent Schools Together
GCISD LEAD 2021- BUILDING EXCELLENT SCHOOLS TOGETHER!
The mission of Grapevine-Colleyville ISD is to be THE BEST and through the district’s strategic plan, called LEAD 2021, we continue building on the foundation started in 2011-2012. LEAD stands for Leading Excellence – Action Driven. For more information about LEAD 2021, please visit the district website. There are some exciting educational experiences going on in GCISD!
GCISD’s WHY?
Redefining Education because your future matters today!
GCISD’s Portrait of a Graduate
Skilled Problem Solvers
Communicators
Global Citizens
Self-regulated Learners
Collaborators
Stay Connected at O. C. Taylor Elementary School
We have a number of ways to keep in touch with our school. Be sure to read, subscribe to and join these resources to get all the latest news.
Facebook: If you’re a Facebook member be sure to join the O.C. Taylor Elementary Facebook Group to get updates in your feed. This group is meant to provide another way to get news and updates.
Website: The school’s website has the latest news, updates, and calendars, as well as general information about the school, resources for parents, volunteer opportunity information, event information and ways to donate.
Twitter: We regularly post events and upcoming news on Twitter. Follow me on Twitter: @OCTYoung and follow our hashtag #OCT4U.