Happy Friday! We had a great week of learning at CGE. Thank you to everyone who voted in the election on Tuesday. As you may already know the public voted yes on all three questions on the ballot for South Washington County Schools. More information about how this affects the different schools can be found on the sowashco.org website.

Next week is a typical 5 day week for our students. We are looking forward to a great week of learning. As we continue with our Be Amazing! Be Grateful theme at CGE, I have added some more ideas on how to show gratefulness that you can use at home.

Thanks for your partnership in your child's education. CGE is grateful for you!

Sincerely,

Candy Gram, Principal

Cottage Grove Elementary

Mrs. Tester is offering an afterschool opportunity for GIRLS to learn and play the basic fundamentals of volleyball and basketball, have fun and also meet new friends! This program is offered to girls in grades 3-5 and runs for six sessions for three weeks (2 days per week). www.cecool.com

Cost: $45 course C176

Dates: T/Th's on November 28, 30 and December 5, 7, 12, 14

At Cottage Grove Elementary

Tue/Thu, Nov 28 - Dec 14 3:10 - 4:00 PM There is no bus.

Any questions or need help with registration contact Mrs.Tester gtester@sowashco.org

https://sowashco.ce.eleyo.com/course/23114/winter-2024/cottage-grove-elementary-after-school-girls-basketball-and-volleyball

Square 1 Art

Students in grades K-5 will soon be receiving their custom catalog for our Square 1 Art program. Through this program, you can order magnets, mugs, keychains and other fun products with your child's amazing artwork printed on them. Order now using the Art Search option here: https://shop.square1art.com/Shop/artwork/Search

When you receive the catalog, there will also be a unique QR code for easy ordering.

All orders will be shipped directly to your home address and are scheduled to arrive 2-3 weeks after your order is placed.

Orders due by: 11/28/2023

Jerry's bags

We are collecting Jerry's paper grocery bags to use for our end of the year portfolios. If you have any bags, please send them to school with your child. Thank you!

Mrs. Soucheray

K-5 Art Specialist

CGE will be able to host limited lunch time visitors between , October 9– May 26th this school year. Based on space and safety requirements, one family member listed in Parent Portal may sign up using our NOVEMBER November Sign Up to accompany their child at our guest lunch table. Our reservation link for NOVEMBER is live LINK. We ask families to review the process below so that we can ensure this practice is available:

1. Sign up for the visit no later than the day prior to your visit.
2. Upon arrival for the visit, present identification and complete the Raptor screening.
3. Wear the visitor badge so that it is visible during the entirety of the visit.
4. Go directly to the lunchroom and eat in the guest space with your student.
5. No friends or additional students will be permitted to join the guest space.
6. Visitors may not visit recess time.
7. The visit is limited to guest space during the student’s identified lunch period.
8. Any outside food brought in can only be shared with your student.
9. Do not take pictures, record, or film while at school. Use of cell phones is strongly discouraged for safety and privacy.
10. You may sign up for one spot a month to allow for other families to sign up as well.
11. PLEASE delete your reservation if you are unable to come to allow for other families to sign up.

We ask that you limit your visit to the lunchroom and not accompany your child back to the classroom. We also ask that you not visit your other children in their classroom or drop something off for them.

Are you looking for a way to contribute your time and talents to CGE? Do you have a schedule which would permit you to work during school hours Monday-Friday? Do you like working with children? If you do or someone you know does, we are looking for YOU!

Currently, we have an open 6.25-hour, Special Education paraprofessional position from 8:25 AM-3:10 PM at Cottage Grove Elementary. This position is primarily student contact days so it is aligns with your child/ren's schedule!

**Pay is based upon the current Paraprofessional Union contract with a base starting pay of $20.38.

Some of the primary job functions for a Special Education para would include: Working in a team atmosphere by assisting the SPED teacher in the classroom with students, building positive/trusting relationships with staff/students and helping create a safe learning environment for all students to be successful.

Required Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent; Competencies as required by State of Minnesota, Federal government, and/or SoWashCo Schools including a criminal background check as well as a physical screening. Demonstrates an attitude of enjoying and appreciating children in the elementary age group. Prompt, regular and reliable attendance.

Please contact Principal, Candy Gram for more information on this position at 651-425-5803 or e-mail at cgram0@sowashco.org.