Talent Show:

Tuesday, June 6th is our Buchanan Talent Show! Parents of participants are welcome to view the performance at 1:30 in the gym.

Music Concert:

We are so excited to host a great night of music here at Buchanan. On Thursday June 8th, please join us at the scheduled time below for the music concert. This will be an outside concert on our playground, please bring lawn chairs or blankets. Students can dress "outside fancy."

Kindergarten will be @ 1:15 p.m.

Grades 1 and 2- @ 6:00 p.m.

Grades 3 and 4- @ 7:00 p.m.

We look forward to hearing great music and seeing all our families. We hope you can join for a great night!

PTA Points

Thank you to everyone who took advantage of the spree voucher presale.

Your orders have been collected and will be distributed next week.

We hope you can join us for our final meeting of the year Tuesday, June 6th at 7 p.m. in the LMC. Childcare will be provided.

2023 Summer Reading Program at the Livonia Public Library

The theme for the 2023 Summer Reading Program is "All Together Now." Students keep track of their reading and activities to earn badges on a special reading log. Participants receive a FREE BOOK for every 5 badges they earn on their reading log! There are also many FREE events and activities at the public library this summer, such as magic shows, musicians, art activities, and more!

For more information about the Summer Reading Program, or to register, go to the Livonia Public Library website. After clicking the link, point your arrow at Events, and then click Kid and Tween. Next, click the link that says Summer Reading 2023.

Summer Book Check-Out

Mark your calendars! Mrs. Taylor will be at Buchanan every Monday from 2:30 - 3:00 this summer, starting 6/19. If your child would like to check out LEVELED books please come and check some out! This is a great way to avoid the dreaded summer slide! Most students move down TWO reading levels in the summer due to not reading. Start the new school year on target and avoid that summer sliiiiiiiiiide!!

I hope everyone has a safe, happy, and healthy Memorial Day weekend. The weather looks great. This morning we had a great time dancing outside at arrival and the kids shared so many fun things they are looking forward to doing this weekend. I hope you enjoy. This amazing school year is almost done so I will continue listing important dates so you don't miss a beat.

Monday 5/29- No School Memorial Day

Tuesday 5/30- Happy Tuesday, welcome back to school.

Wednesday 5/31- Field Day ( See teacher emails regarding details)

K-2 (9:30-11:30) 3-4 ( 1:15-3:15)

Thursday 6/1- SHS graduates come to Buchanan to clap out of LPS:(

Friday 6/2- Happy Friday! Dance music in the morning.

June Dates:

• Monday June 5- Ringler/Medellin field trip to U of M Interpretive Center

• Tuesday June 6- 1st grade zoo field trip (9:15-1:30)

Talent show at Buchanan ( Grades 2-4 in gym)

PTA meeting @ Buchanan 7:00p.m

• Wednesday June 7- Kindergarten Round Up ( Morning and Afternoon)

• Thursday June 8- Kindergarten music concert 1: 15 p.m. Grades 1-2 @ 6:00p.m. Grades 3-4 @ 7:00 p.m.

Banter/ Kaufman field trip to U of M Interpretive Center

• Friday June 9- PD day ( No School)

• Monday June 12- 4th Grade to Burton Hollow Swim Club ( 9:15-1:30)

• Wednesday June 14- ½ day

4th grade clap out- 11:50 p.m.

PTA Points:

The PTA is selling discounted vouchers for this year's Livonia spree. Vouchers are good Tuesday through Saturday and run $20 Each. Flyers were sent home this week but if you missed it, please see the attached flyer below.

The cutoff for taking advantage of this presale is June 2nd.

If you haven't checked out our new spirit wear, there is no better time than with our current sale!

Our final meeting of the year will be Tuesday, June 6th at 7:00 p.m. in the LMC we hope to see you there.

We are having a great week at Buchanan. Such a great way to end the year. STEAM night/ Art show was a huge hit. Thank you for joining us. Our second grade classes enjoyed going to Greenmead for the day. They looked adorable.

So many fun things planned for the rest of the year. Save the date!

May Dates:

• Thursday May 25- Reading month award- Picnic lunch and Kona!

• Friday May 26- ½ day of school for students ( Spirit wear day)

• Monday May 29- No school for students

• Wednesday May 31- Buchanan Field Day

June Dates:

• Monday June 5- Ringler/Medellin field trip to U of M Interpretive Center

• Tuesday June 6- 1st grade zoo field trip (9:15-1:30)

Talent show at Buchanan ( Grades 2-4 in gym)

PTA meeting @ Buchanan 7:00p.m

• Wednesday June 7- Kindergarten Round Up ( Morning and Afternoon)

• Thursday June 8- Kindergarten music concert 1: 15 p.m. Grades 1-2 @ 6:00p.m. Grades 3-4 @ 7:00 p.m.

Banter/ Kaufman field trip to U of M Interpretive Center

• Friday June 9- PD day ( No School)

• Monday June 12- 4th Grade to Burton Hollow Swim Club ( 9:15-1:30)

• Wednesday June 14- ½ day

4th grade clap out- 11:50 p.m.

Happy Mid May! The weather has been great and students are getting ready for summer break. However, we still have more learning and growing to do. Please continue to remind your child we are here to learn and be respectful, responsible and safe every day here at Buchanan. Thank you so much for the support. You have great kids and I am honored to work with you.

Happy Mother's Day Weekend! I hope all the moms, step-moms, grandmas, and aunts have a great, restful weekend. It definitely takes a village and everyone in a child's life has a huge impact, I thank you.

STEAM Night is coming...Please join us for an amazing STEAM/ Art Show night here at Buchanan. On Thursday May 18th 6-8, we will have Kona Ice, fun hands on activities and beautiful art displayed throughout the building. We would love to have you.

Buchanan Robo Bears- Good Luck to all our RoboBears on Saturday. We are cheering you on, you make us proud!

May Important Dates:

• Thursday May 18- STEAM NIGHT/ Art & Science Fair (6:00pm - 8:00pm)

• Adams and Gruenewald to Greenmead ( 9:15am - 1:00pm)

• Friday May 26- ½ day of school for students, no PM

• Monday May 29- No school for students

• Wednesday May 31- Buchanan Field Day

PTA Points:

Thank you to everyone who attended our Spring Fling last Friday. It was an incredibly fun night.

A huge thank you to all the families who donated for our raffle baskets.

Our last meeting of the year will be Tuesday, June 6th at 7:00 p.m. in the LMC. Childcare will be provided.

We will be discussing the budget for next year as well as introducing next year's board.

Riley News Below:

PTA Points!

We cannot wait to see everyone tonight at our Spring Fling!

If you did not RSVP, no worries. Wristbands and raffle tickets will be available for purchase at the event.

The PTA is happy to celebrate our staff throughout the entire month of May.

Franklin Inn from Franklin high School hosted a made to order Omelette bar for our staff yesterday.

We have a lot of great things planned throughout the month.

Our new spirit wear store is live.

Use the link below to get all your Bears gear and show your school spirit We have a new logo!

https://1stplacespiritwear.com/schools/MI/Livonia/Buchanan+Elementary+School

The LPS Education Foundation is again offering Star Awards for Teacher/Staff Appreciation Month 2023!

Are you looking for a unique way to thank a Livonia Public Schools staff member? A Star Award honors any LPS employee who has made a difference in a student’s, family’s or fellow staffer’s life. For a $25 donation to the Foundation, a personalized, color certificate will be presented to your honoree, and they will receive recognition on the Foundation's website and social media platforms as well as the district's social media platforms. The certificate will be personalized with your praise to show this LPS employee how much they mean to you!

Please click on the link below to send a Star Award to an awesome LPS staff member!

https://bit.ly/LPSEF-StarAward

Donations received will be used to help fund the Foundation’s Grant Program so all funds will be going back into the schools to provide programs and supplies for our students and staff.

Thank you for your support! This is an ongoing fundraiser and Star Awards may be submitted at any time.

If you have any questions, please email lpsfoundation@livoniapublicschools.org

PTA POINTS:

We cannot believe our Spring Fling is already next week!

Don't worry.... If you didn't get a chance to RSVP, we will be selling both wristbands and raffle tickets at the door.

Please consider signing up to run a game booth during the event! Convenient half hour slots are an easy way to make this a fun night for all Buchanan students while still enjoying the rest of the night with your child.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/805054DA8AC22A6FF2-nhsvolunteers3

Or if you want to help with wristbands and raffle baskets on May 1st or set up of the carnival day or please consider volunteering.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/805054DA8AC22A6FF2-parent

We Hope you can join us for a night of fun Friday, May 5th from 5:30 to 8 and enjoy games, a petting farm, food trucks and Kona ice available for purchase, and so much more.

Medication Reminder:

Livonia Public Schools’ policy on medication states that “under no circumstances should any school employee attempt to suggest a diagnosis or prescribe or give medicine of any kind, including aspirin, to a student.” If it is absolutely necessary for the child to have medication during the school day, the parents may come to school and give the medicine themselves or have their physician fill out and sign a special permission form (available at the school office) that will allow school personnel to administer the medicine. Please do not send medication to school without the form. This includes any over-the-counter medications, such as cough drops, aspirin, and sunscreen etc. Because of obvious dangers to other pupils, children are not to carry any medicine with them in school to take at their own discretion, with the exception of inhalers and the principal’s approval.

It's the end of April and it has been such a great month. I wish we were having another sunny and warm weekend, but spring will be here soon. Below are important dates for May!

May Dates:

• Friday May 5- Buchanan Spring Fling ( PTA event 5:30pm - 8:30pm)

• Monday May 8- Expectation Assembly 9:15 am

• Wednesday May 10- 4th grade to Riley ( 9:30am - 11:00am)

• Thursday May 11- Benson & Tanner to Greenmead (9:15am - 1:00pm)

• Thursday May 18- STEAM NIGHT/ Art & Science Fair (6:00pm - 8:00pm)

• Adams and Gruenewald to Greenmead ( 9:15am - 1:00pm)

• Friday May 26- ½ day of school for students, no PM

• Monday May 29- No school for students

• Wednesday May 31- Buchanan Field Day

Buchanan Beautification Help Needed:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B0D4FAEAE23A02-buchanan

PTA Points:

Flyers went home this week for our upcoming Spring Fling on Friday May 5th.
Please return your RSVP by Friday the 28th to take advantage of Free
Admission for your Buchanan Student.
RSVPs will not be accepted after this date and walk in tickets can be
purchased at the event.

Please consider volunteering to help with wristband and raffle basket
prep, as well as the day of the carnival set up.
Use the Sign Up Genius Link Below
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/805054DA8AC22A6FF2-parent

Last Night was the Youth Making A Difference Ceremony. Thank you to
everyone who joined this year.

There is still time to sign up for our Spring Photo Shoot. Please see
last weeks PTA points for the full flyer and details.
Photo sessions will be held on Sunday May 21st from 12-4

Honestly, this has been one of my favorite weeks here at Buchanan. We had the opportunity to welcome incoming Kindergarten parents for an information night on Wednesday. It was so fun to meet and see excited parents. Also, our K,1,2 student made the most beautiful and sincere locker signs for our 3rd and 4th grade M-Step students. They were genuinely cheering them on. I have also watched first hand how hard our 3rd and 4th graders are working on doing their best on M-Step. Students have been so positive and excited about the challenge. I could not be more proud. Go Buchanan Bears!

Important Dates coming up:

April Dates:

• Thursday April 20- K,1 field trip to SHS play

May Dates:

• Friday May 5- Buchanan Spring Fling ( PTA event 5:30-8:30)

• Monday May 8- Expectation Assembly 9:15 am

• Wednesday May 10- 4th grade to Riley ( 9:30-11:00)

• Thursday May 11- Benson & Tanner to Greenmead (9:15- 1:00)

• Thursday May 18- STEAM NIGHT/ Art & Science Fair (6:00-8:00)

Adams and Gruenewald to Greenmead ( 9:15- 1:00)

• Friday May 26- ½ day of school for students

• Monday May 29- No school for students

• Wednesday May 31- Buchanan Field Day

June Dates:

• Monday June 5- Ringler/Medellin field trip to U of M Interpretive Center

• Tuesday June 6- 1st grade zoo field trip (9:15-1:30)

Talent show at Buchanan ( Grades 2-4 in gym)

PTA meeting @ Buchanan 7:00p.m

• Wednesday June 7- Kindergarten Round Up ( Morning and Afternoon)

Banter/ Kaufman field trip to U of M Interpretive Center

• Friday June 9- PD day ( No School)

• Monday June 12- 4th Grade to Burton Hollow Swim Club ( 9:15-1:30)

• Wednesday June 14- ½ day

4th grade clap out!

PTA Points:

Thank you to everyone who joined us at our Tuesday meeting! In case you missed it here are some highlights:

The Votes are in! Your 2023-2024 PTA Board has been elected

-President: Katie Klann

- 1st Vice President: Amy Oppie

-2nd Vice President: Lauren Gehringer

-Recording Secretary: Kristie Miller

-Corresponding Secretary: Michelle Ciemnicki

-Treasurer: Christen Lesko-Brown

Save the dates

-Spring Fling: Friday May 5th from 5:30-8

Flyers to be distributed next week

-STEAM Night: Thursday May 18th 6-8

Partially funded by the PTA

- Spring Photo Shoot: Sunday May 21st 12-4

Flyer attached

At our general meeting we proposed an amendment to our current bylaw.

Bylaw Amendment

Current Bylaw

Article VII: Membership and Dues

Section 7. Each member of this PTA shall pay annual dues of $7.00 to the organization. The amount of such annual dues shall include the portion payable to the Michigan PTA and the portion payable to the National PTA

Proposed Change

Article VII: Membership and Dues

Section 7. Each member of this PTA shall pay annual dues of $10.00 to the organization. The amount of such annual dues shall include the portion payable to the Michigan PTA and the portion payable to the National PTA

This proposed change is due to the possible increase of our portion payable to the national PTA which will be voted on over the summer. The national PTA is expected to increase the payment they receive from our memberships from $1.75 each to $4.00 each.

Voting will take place at our next meeting which is Tuesday, June 6th at 7:00. Childcare will be provided.

It was a great week at Buchanan. Students are working so hard learning and growing. I am proud of each and everyone of them. Our 3rd and 4th graders have been practicing tools for the M-Step which starts on Tuesday. We wish these smart kids the best of luck! I hope everyone has a great long weekend and a Happy Easter.

Below are some save the dates:

PTA Points:

Please join us on Tuesday April 11th for a PTA meeting. It is held at Buchanan starting at 7:00pm. Child care is available.

Wednesday 4/12- We look forward to welcoming our incoming Kindergarten parents to an information night hosted at Buchanan. 6:00-7:00p.m. This will be the class of 2036!

STEAM Night... Save the DATE!

Mark your calendars! Buchanan's 2nd Annual STEAM Family Night is on May 18th from 6:00-8:00! See the attached flyer for additional details for the STEAM Night and Science Fair Participation. We need to get an estimate of the number of people that will be coming to the STEAM Night and how many students will be participating in the Science Fair. Students DO NOT have to participate in the Science Fair to attend STEAM Night. Please fill out the slip on the flyer and return to your child’s teacher by Tuesday, April 14th OR complete this Google form Buchanan Family STEAM Night Questionnaire/Science Fair Participation

Its been a great week here at Buchanan. We are finishing up reading month and had an amazing battle of the books on Tuesday. Great job to all the Buchanan Bears that read this month and continue to read over spring break. Students have been working so hard this year and we want to sustain this effort. If your flying, driving or staying home have your child bring a book or journal. Enjoy your time off with your family. I hope you have a safe, happy and healthy week off. I look forward to seeing everyone back on April 3rd.

M-Step Info for 3rd and 4th graders:

Our students have worked so hard this year and now is the time to show that off. Students in 3rd and 4th grade will officially begin the M-Step on April 11. We will test Tuesday - Thursdays for an hour a day. 3rd grade will test from 11:00-12:00 and 4th grade will test from 10:00-11:00. Please help your child by getting them to bed early, a good breakfast and to school on time. Please also if possible refrain from checking your child out during testing times. We have many fun and celebratory events planned to make this a challenge and not stressful. Thank you for your support, we have very smart kids here at Buchanan.

Battle of the Books Thank you!

Battle of the Books was held on Tuesday, March 21. We had 199 students in grades 2-4 on 25 teams who participated in this competition that required students to read specific books and answer questions about each book. Every team worked hard, and we'd like to congratulate all the participants on a job well done!

We could not have held this event without the tremendous help of parents and grandparents who supported this event by leading book study sessions, putting prize bags together, and helping us during the final team battle (including supervising teams, helping with lunch, and helping with cleanup). We would like to thank Buchanan's PTA for their generous support of this event. A big thank you also goes to Buchanan's head custodian, Mr. Miller, for his help both before and during the final team battle. Thank you all very much!

The Battle of the Books Committee

PTA Points:

We would like to Thank everyone who participated in our Readathon fundraiser!!!

The top 3 readers were

- Rania Baidas

- Nadia Chiorean

- Brady Heid

The top 3 fundraisers were

- Sophia Zayat

- Lincoln Krawczyk

- Vivienne Casey

This event raised over $13,000! Thank you to everyone who participated and donated.

Due to the large volume of participation, the PTA was able to send every student home with a book.

Last night was our final Riverside Skate night of the year. Thank you to everyone who joined us!

Our next meeting will be Tuesday April 11th at 7 p.m. in the LMC. Childcare will be provided and we will be having elections for next years board, as well as, discussing our upcoming Spring fling. We hope to see you there.

.E-Backpack Mail - Click & Scroll to Find Out What's Happening! (livoniapublicschools.org)

Happy Friday Buchanan Bears~

This has been a great week here at Buchanan. There has been so much learning, fun events, teacher learning and fun Reading Month Activities. Please visit our Facebook Page for more pictures of fun events here at Buchanan.

Dates to Remember:

Wednesday March 22- Report cards are visible on Parent Connect

Friday March 27-31- Spring Break

PTA Points

Thank you to everyone who attended our meeting this past Tuesday.
In case you missed it, we did a recap of our VIP Dance, which was a
huge success, we talked about our ongoing book fair, as well as March
is Reading Month and our Readathon.

Today marks the last day to record your minutes on our Get Moving Fund
Hub, but we are still accepting donations through the 24th! Funds
raised by the PTA go to field trips, staff appreciation, battle of the
books, steam activities, and our upcoming Spring Fling. Please
consider donating via the link below
https://www.getmovinfundhub.com/register?school_uuid=5d49989d85ce5

• New Spirit wear is coming soon...

Our final Riverside Skate Night will be Thursday 3/23 from 6-8 We Hope
to see you there for our last skate of the school year! Flyers will be
arriving home today or Monday.

Nominations for next year's board have concluded. The election will be
held during our April meeting on Tuesday, April 11th. Nominations are
as follows

President -Katie Klann
1st Vice President -Amy Oppie
2nd Vice President - Lauren Gehringer
Treasurer- Christen Lesko-Brown
Recording Secretary - Kristie Miller
Corresponding Secretary - Michelle Ciemnicki

Our next meeting will be Tuesday April 11th

We had a great week at Buchanan, sadly we ended it with a snow day. It was great to see all the smiling faces last night at the V.I.P dance. Everyone was so happy, that was great to see. The PTA did a wonderful job thinking of every detail.

I look forward to seeing everyone on Monday. Below is PTA points and important dates.

March Dates:

3/13 - 3/17 - Scholastic Bookfair @ Buchanan

3/14 - PTA Meeting in the LMC- 7:00 p.m

3/15 - No School

3/21 - Battle of the Books

3/22 - Proficiency & iReady Reports go home, Report Cards are visible in Parent Connect

3/27 - 3/31 - No School - Spring Break

PTA Points:

I would like to thank everyone who joined us at last night's VIP dance. It was an incredible event made possible by our incredible volunteers!

A huge thank you to our staff and students who assisted with the decorations, thank you to the NHS volunteers, and thank you to all our parent volunteers who assisted with decorations, food, and all the pre-dance preparations.

Our book fair runs next week 3/13 through 3/17 and we are in need of volunteers to assist with student shopping. Please note that both Mrs McGuigan's class and Mrs Stromberg's class will be shopping during the makeup time on Friday from 1:00 to 1:30. Use the sign up genius link below to volunteer.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/805054DA8AC22A6FF2-book

March is reading month and our readathon fundraiser is in full swing.

Please register using our get moving fund hub to log in reading minutes and accept donations. Every child who registers will receive a book courtesy of the PTA.

https://www.getmovinfundhub.com/register?school_uuid=5d49989d85ce5

Nominations for next years board have concluded. The election will be held during our April meeting on Tuesday, April 11th. Nominations are as follows

President -Katie Klann

1st Vice President -Amy Oppie

2nd Vice President - Lauren Gehringer

Treasurer- Christen Lesko-Brown

Recording Secretary - Kristie Miller

Corresponding Secretary - Michelle Ciemnicki

Our next meeting will be held both in person and virtually on Tuesday, March 14th at 7:00 p.m. in the LMC. Childcare will be provided.

Use the Google meet link below if you wish to attend virtually

https://meet.google.com/imx-gucd-fti

We did it, a 5 day week! Students are back in the groove of learning and growing. It's so good to see everyone happy and coming to school. We are very excited about reading month and the students love telling me how many minutes they have read, I am so proud. Keep up the great work Buchanan Bears!

Important Dates in March:

3/9 - VIP Dance 5:30pm - 7:30pm ( See PTA Points for more details)

3/10 - Half Day, AM Only

3/13 - 3/17 - Scholastic Bookfair @ Buchanan

3/14 - PTA Meeting in the LMC- 7:00 p.m

3/15 - No School

3/21 - Battle of the Books

3/22 - Proficiency & iReady Reports go home, Report Cards are visible in Parent Connect

3/27 - 3/31 - No School - Spring Break

PTA POINTS

Thank you to everyone for your understanding with the rescheduling of our VIP Dance to March 9th from 5:30-7:30.

We are looking for day-of volunteers to help us make this event amazing. Please consider signing up

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/805054DA8AC22A6FF2-dayofdance

The PTA is proud to join with the school for March is Reading Month! Remember to register on the get moving hub to receive donations and log reading minutes. This is the PTA's largest fundraiser and every child who registers will receive a book.

https://www.getmovinfundhub.com/register?school_uuid=5d49989d85ce5

Show your Buchanan Bear pride with spirit wear for the whole family.

Enjoy free shipping now through 3/20

www.buchananspiritwear.com

Our next meeting will be on Tuesday March 14th in the LMC. Childcare will be provided.

I spoke with the students in the lunch room regarding snack bar and promised them I would include the same info in my newsletter. K-4 students are VERY excited about the snack bar. There are 2 ways to purchase items: 1. Cash (easiest method) or 2. using their lunch account. When getting money off their account, honestly the wait time in line is long, which takes away from their time to eat. Eating lunch is so important to fill stomach so they can learn in the afternoon. There are additional items depending the day but below is a picture of some current options.

What a crazy weather week. I hope everyone has their power back and were able to stay warm.

I can't believe it's almost March! This year is flying by. It has been amazing as a first year principal watching our students grow socially, emotionally and academically. This is so rewarding.

Monday February 27- 100th day of school- (Dress like your 100 years old.)

Tuesday February 28- Spring Picture Day

Wednesday March 1- Reading Month Begins

Below are some important information about Reading Month and the rescheduled dance.

Reading Month Message:

Hello Buchanan Families!

We are super excited about our March Reading Month Challenge, Camp Out and Read. Today is our official kickoff for this reading challenge and it is also tied together with our largest Buchanan PTA fundraiser. Attached you will find more details about these two events. We will be going over all of the details, prizes, and other fun events with the students on Monday. For now, if you can start keeping track of your child's reading minutes along with registering them in the portal when you are able, that would be great. You will also receive a hard copy of the attached note detailing all of the information on Monday.

Here is the link to register your child(ren): https://www.getmovinfundhub.com/register?school_uuid=5d49989d85ce5

We miss your children dearly, hope they are all safe and warm, and we look forward to being back with them all on Monday!

Appreciatively,

Buchanan's Reading Month Committee

Camp Out and Read

PTA Points:

• The PTA would like to thank everyone for their patience with regards to rescheduling our VIP dance that was supposed to be this evening.

We have a new date of Thursday, March 9th from 5:30 to 7:30.

We hope that everyone who RSVP'd can still attend. If for some reason you cannot, please use the attached Google form to process a refund.

https://forms.gle/qHzkeQkCdEFahSNv9

If you had not previously RSVP'd but would now like to attend the dance please send in the attached form by Friday, March 3rd.

It's been another good week of learning and growing here at Buchanan. Below is some updates and I look forward to seeing everyone at the Valentines Dance!

NO School on Monday February 20, 2023

Battle of the Books Update

There are now only 3 weeks left for students to finish reading 2 books and attending 2 study sessions. At our last count, there are over 50 students who have not finished reading their first book yet. Please check with your student to see how many books they have read, and make sure they are reading and attending study sessions. Any student who has not read 2 books by March 14 or attended 2 study sessions by March 17 will not be allowed to participate in the Battle on March 21.

PTA POINTS

Thank you to everyone who joined us at our Tuesday meeting. We discussed our upcoming VIP dance and everything March is reading month.

The PTA has had quite a week prepping for our upcoming dance as well as celebrating everything that we do and who we do it with at our annual Founders Day. This event was held on Wednesday at St. Mary's cultural center where we honored current Vice President Valerie Jackson, and third grade teacher Mrs. Duff.

Nominations are now open to be a part of the 2023-2024 PTA board. Please complete the attached form and email it before March 10th.

Did you know that you can become a member year round. Help us reach our goal of 200 members. Membership and fundraising through the PTA helps contribute to things at the school like stipends for teachers, Battle of the books, STEAM Room, and so much more.

https://buchanan.memberhub.com/store/items/15647

Help is needed for day of coordination for our VIP Dance.

This includes filling popcorn bags, setting up games and hanging decorations.

If you are able to help with any of this, please use the sign up genius link below to volunteer. Help us make this night a wonderful celebration for our students and their VIPs.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/805054DA8AC22A6FF2-vipdance

Important Dates:

February 1- Kindergarten registration begins

www.livoniapublicschools.org/registration

February 14- PTA meeting at 7:00- Buchanan LMC or Virtual (See below for link)

February 17- Random Acts of Kindness Day- Wear your kindness shirts

February 20- No School ( Mid Winter Recess)

February 28- Spring pictures

Cell Phones and Technology Use:

I understand communication is big for our students and some have phone for safety. However, this is a huge responsibility for not only students but also us as parents.

Below are some tips to help keep our kids safe and keep conflict out of schools:

• Monitor and discuss with your child who and what they are texting including pictures, videos and statements that they may think are just jokes.
• Take the time to make sure the apps on your children's phone are age appropriate.
• Time limits are important to ensure good sleep habits
• Limit distraction during sleep time, such as charging device outside of their bedroom.

I understand everyone has their own rules and expectations, I am hoping these suggestions keep our children safe and able to focus on school.

Thank you for your help,

Jen Wilson

PTA Points

Our VIP Dance Will be hosted on Thursday the 23rd from 5:30 until 7:30 p.m. admission is by RSVP only. So please send in your completed forms with the suggested donation if you are able.

We have not held this event since before covid so it's going to be a really fun night.

Did you know that you could become a PTA member year round? We are just shy of 200 members and would love to hit this incredible goal!

Become a member today

https://buchanan.memberhub.com/store/items/15647

Our next PTA meeting is Tuesday, February 14th at 7:00 p.m. We are holding this meeting as a hybrid so you can attend in person with child care or at home via Google meet.

This meeting is going to discuss in further detail our upcoming VIP dance, as well as the announcement of nominations opening for next year's board. We hope to see you there!

The link to attend the meeting is below and will also be posted on our social media.

https://meet.google.com/jpk-ovxw-zqy

Next week is National Random Acts of Kindness Week. On Friday, February 17, we will have a spirit day to wear kindness shirts as a way to promote kindness throughout our school. I have attached a list of 50 things that your child can do that are simple enough to do on their own. I challenge your child to complete as many of these acts of kindness throughout the week. Spread Kindness Everywhere! ( see ideas below to spread kindness)

Important Dates:

February 1- Kindergarten registration begins

www.livoniapublicschools.org/registration

February 20- No School ( Mid Winter Recess)

February 28- Spring pictures

Hello Bears!

February is American Heart Month, and it’s the perfect time to sign up for our school’s Kid’s Heart Challenge and complete Finn’s Mission.

Finn is a young man who was born with a special heart. To honor the 18 surgeries that have saved his life, he’s on a mission to teach 1.8 million families across the nation life-saving Hands Only CPR.

Did you know, most cardiac arrests that happen outside of hospitals happen in home settings? Learning CPR may someday help you be ready to save the life of someone you love!

Register now http://www2.heart.org/goto/BuchananElementary and follow the steps to complete Finn’s Mission.

I appreciate your support of service learning, heart health and lifesaving through KHC.

Thanks so much!

Mrs. Berg-Grant and Mrs. Giorgino

--

PTA Points:

Thank you to everyone who joined us last night at Riverside! As always, we had a blast!

Did you know that you can raise money for our PTA just by doing your grocery shopping?

Help the PTA by shopping at Kroger & Busch’s and selecting “Buchanan Elementary PTA” to receive rewards! Here are the instructions on adding our organization to your account:

https://www.kroger.com/i/community/community-rewards

https://www.buschs.com/resource/pdf/CashForEd_ParticipantInstructions_2020.pdf

Our next meeting is Tuesday February 14th and will be held both in person and via Google meet

We have had a great but short week here at Buchanan. I was so excited to hear all the students tell me about sledding, building snowmen, taking naps and even reading over our 2 days not at school. Good job Buchanan Bears.

If you have any extra boys or girls pants that you are looking to donate, Buchanan office is in need.

Also, don't forget to send boots, and winter gear for recess. We go outside as long as the wind-chill is above 15.

March is Reading Month is right around the corner. Please see the link below if you would like to order a Read Shirt.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to call the office at 734-744-2690.

Buchanan Elementary Read 2023 | MBS, Inc. | powered by OrderMyGear (itemorder.com)

PTA Points

Did you know that you could become a PTA member year round? We are just shy of 200 members and would love to hit this incredible goal!

Become a member today

https://buchanan.memberhub.com/store/items/15647

Our next Riverside skate night will be Thursday February 2nd from 6:00 to 8:00.

Our next PTA meeting is Tuesday, February 14th at 7:00 p.m. We are holding this meeting as a hybrid so you can attend in person with child care or at home via Google meet.

This meeting is going to discuss in further detail our upcoming VIP dance, as well as the announcement of nominations opening for next year's board. We hope to see you there!

Wow, it's been a very busy week here at Buchanan! We are reviewing recess expectations this month and students are doing great! We also had 80's day on Friday, below is a pictures of staff supporting this theme.

I would also like to congratulate Ms. Haapala this weekend, on her upcoming wedding. When she returns she will be Mrs. Blanchard! We all wish her the best.

PTA POINTS:

Thank you to everyone who came to our VIP dance meeting. We had an incredible turnout and we are so excited to work together to make this an incredible event for Buchanan.

More information will come out as we get closer to the date.

Did you know that you could become a PTA member year round? We are just shy of 200 members and would love to hit this incredible goal!

Become a member today

https://buchanan.memberhub.com/store/items/15647

Our next Riverside skate night will be Thursday February 2nd from 6:00 to 8:00.

Flyers will be distributed next week.

Our next PTA meeting is Tuesday, February 14th at 7:00 p.m. We are holding this meeting as a hybrid so you can attend in person with child care or at home via Google meet.

This meeting is going to discuss in further detail our upcoming VIP dance, as well as the announcement of nominations opening for next year's board. We hope to see you there!

It's been another great week here at Buchanan! We started out our week with an all school welcome back assembly.( See picture below) We learned about GRIT and Recess expectations. We even got to meet our new Buchanan Bear. We also introduced flag football, it's been a great and safe week.

Below is coming events:

Monday January 16,- No School

Tuesday January 17- 6:00 PTA Winter Dance planning meeting in the LMC (volunteers make this event possible, please consider helping!)

Thursday January 19- Battle of the Books permission slips are due today!

Friday January 20- 80th day of school ( 80's day theme spirit day)

PTA Points....

We would like to thank everyone who attended our meeting this past Tuesday the 10th.

Our next Riverside Skate night will be Thursday, February 2nd from 6:00 to 8:00.

Flyers will be distributed in the coming weeks.

The PTA has begun planning all of our events for March is reading month. Including our readathon fundraiser, and the spring book fair. More information will be sent home closer to the date.

Our VIP dance is back for the first time since before covid!

This fully indoor event will be held Thursday, February 23rd from 5:30 to 7:30.

An informal planning meeting will take place at the school library on Tuesday the 17th at 6:00 p.m.

Anyone who would like to help with the planning of the event, we are looking for assistance with things like food, decorations, games and prizes, and a quiet activity room.

We hope to see you there!

Welcome Back Families~

I absolutely can't wait to see all the smiling, sweet faces on Monday! I hope everyone had a safe, happy and healthy break! The year has gone by so fast, I just can't believe it's January!

Below are hopefully some helpful tips for a great second half of the year!

Hope to see everyone Tuesday, January 10 @7:00 P.M. for the PTA meeting. We meet in the LMC, child care is available.

January is also hearing and vision testing month here at Buchanan.

OUTSIDE FOR RECESS AND LINE UP AS LONG AS IT IS 15 DEGREES WITH THE WIND CHILL

Children will be going outdoors for recess when the temperature and wind chill combine for 15 degrees or above.

Recess is 30 minutes in duration, so children should be dressed for remaining outdoors for that length of time.

Students will not be permitted inside at morning arrival unless the temperature is below 15 degrees with the wind chill.

Boots are required during inclement weather or the student will be confined to the blacktop area of the playground during outdoor recess when we have snowy or slushy conditions. Warm coats, gloves/mittens, hats and scarves should be worn during cold weather. Your cooperation in sending children to school dressed appropriately is greatly appreciated.

This is going to be a great week here at Buchanan. I love the K-4 atmosphere in the building this week. Students are excited, smiling, and full of joy. I have seen so many genuinely excited faces this week alone through our Santa shop. Students were being thoughtful picking out gifts for their favorite people. This was by far my favorite elementary school memory. I look forward to seeing all the families in and out of Buchanan this week. Whether you are picking up, dropping off, coming to visit, helping in the LMC or class I look forward to seeing you and am so thankful for your partnership. Together we can do GREAT things!

Lastly, I wish everyone a VERY happy, safe and healthy holiday break. We will see everyone back on Monday January 9th.

Below is next weeks spirt week:)

PTA POINTS

Thank you to everyone who volunteered to assist during our Santa Shop!

It's always a wonderful service to provide for our Buchanan students to pick out something for the important people in their lives

Today was the deadline for Candy Gram purchases. We are thankful to everyone who chose to send some out and the PTA is looking forward to putting them together and distributing them next week!

Did you know that you can become a PTA member at any point in the school year.

Your membership contributions have recently funded new items for the steam room, lunch for the staff during their Monday work day, as well as holiday presents to show all our Buchanan staff our appreciation.

Use the link below to join.

https://buchanan.memberhub.com/store/items/15647

It's been another wonderful week of learning here at Buchanan. I hope everyone enjoys their long weekend. I know this month goes so fast, take the time to enjoy the little moments with your amazing children. They grow up in a blink!

Reminder- there is no school on Monday December 12th. (Professional Development Day)

Kindergarten Families- Please see important message below.

Also, please see PTA points- Santa shop is coming next week. That was one of my favorite memories as a child. I can't wait to see the kids shop!

Please reach out with any questions or concerns,

Jen Wilson

The Livonia Public Schools Education Foundation offers a free opportunity for parents/guardians of kindergarten students to sign up for the Competitive Edge Savings Program.

This is a savings account set up through the Michigan Education Savings Program. Families do not invest a dime, but the Foundation starts the account with seed funds and that fund

grows over the course of the student's educational career in LPS. Upon graduation from an LPS school, the student receives a check from the Foundation to assist with future college or

trade school plans!

There is a Feb. 1 deadline to sign up. This opportunity is only for current kindergarten students.

See links for further information!

Video link: https://youtu.be/fQnjFx76Et4

CE Sign-Up link: https://bit.ly/CompEdgeSignUp

Our classroom membership results are in

Kindergarten - Mrs. Pillai

1st grade- a 3 way tie Mrs. Kamin, Mrs. Jones, and Mrs. Hochkins

2nd grade - Mrs. Gruenewald

3rd grade- Mrs. Duff

4th grade- Mrs. Medellin

Prizes will be distributed to the winning classrooms

Become a member today
https://buchanan.memberhub.com/store/items/15647
Your contribution funds items like new headphones for the entire school, books for the literacy library, supplies for the new STEAM room, and so much more!

Our Santa shop will run from 12/13-12/15 and we need your help.
Volunteers are needed to assist with the student shopping. Morning and afternoon slots are available, please consider signing up via the link below

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/805054DA8AC22A6FF2-santa1

Show your school spirit with items from our spirit wear store
https://www.buchananspiritwear.com

Our classroom membership contest is completed. Thank you to everyone who joined the PTA. We have surpassed last year's membership numbers!

The winning classrooms will be announced next week after everything is tallied.

Become a member today
https://buchanan.memberhub.com/store/items/15647
Your contribution funds items like new headphones for the entire school, books for the literacy library, supplies for the new STEAM room, field trips, and so much more!

Our Santa shop will run from 12/13-12/15 and we need your help.
Volunteers are needed to assist with the student shopping. Morning and afternoon slots are available, please consider signing up via the link below

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/805054DA8AC22A6FF2-santa1

Show your school spirit with items from our spirit wear store
https://www.buchananspiritwear.com

Thank you to everyone who participated in our Little Caesars Pizza kit fundraiser. We raised $990.00!

We hope to see you tonight at Riverside for our December skate night from 5:30-7:30!

Christmas is just around the corner! For many families it is a joyous time of the year. However, for some it is a very stressful time. If you are in need of assistance this holiday season, please contact Mrs. Blazek kblazek@livoniapublicschools.org. All information is kept confidential.

Wishing your family a wonderful holiday season!

Notes from Mrs. Wilson~

I am wishing each and every family a very happy and safe Thanksgiving. I am so thankful for the supportive parents, sweet and amazing kids as well as an outstanding staff here at Buchanan. I am truly blessed to lead this outstanding school and community.

Below are some important dates to mark on your calendars:

Friday December 9- End of 1st card marking (1/2 day for students AM only)

Monday December 12- NO SCHOOL for students. (Professional Development Day)

Wednesday December 21- Report Cards are viewable on Parent Connect

Monday December 26- Friday Jan 6- Holiday Break

Next PTA meeting is Tuesday January 10th at 7:00 p.m.

Thank you so much Buchanan Bears! Our spirit week was a huge success. The children did such a great job with each theme day. The best part was that we were able to raise $410 for the Livonia GoodFellows. Our Buchanan community is the best!

Thanksgiving is next week and a great way to celebrate is by practicing gratitude. Why gratitude? Gratitude changes people to be better. It teaches children about appreciation, generosity and kindness. These are virtues we want to see in all of our children. I have included a quick game that you can print off and play as a family during the holiday weekend.

Printable Family Gratitude Game

Happy Thanksgiving! I am grateful for working with the wonderful children and families at Buchanan!

PTA Points

Thank you to everyone who attended our general meeting on Tuesday!

Our classroom membership contest is in full swing, now through November 30th, the classrooms in each grade with the largest number of PTA members will receive a special prize from the PTA.
Become a member today
https://buchanan.memberhub.com/store/items/15647
Your contribution funds items like new headphones for the entire school, books for the literacy library, supplies for the new STEAM room, and so much more!

Our Santa shop will run from 12/13-12/15 and we need your help.
Volunteers are needed to assist with the student shopping. Morning and afternoon slots are available, please consider signing up via the link below

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/805054DA8AC22A6FF2-santa1

Show your school spirit with items from our spirit wear store
https://www.buchananspiritwear.com

We will be having a whole school spirit week November 14-18. Students are welcome to make a monetary donation. Collection jars will be in the main lobby. All proceeds will be helping the Livonia community and will be given to Livonia Goodfellows. They will use the proceeds to provide Livonia families with gift cards for food, toys and clothing for the holidays. Their mission is to have no child without a Christmas.

Monday - November 14 - Kindness Day (World Kindness Day is on 11/13) Wear a shirt or do something that promotes kindness.

Tuesday - November 15 - Fancy Day

PTA meeting 7:00 @ Buchanan. Child care is provided.

Wednesday - November 16 -Hat/Crazy Hair Day

Thursday - Fancy Day - November 17 - Buchanan Spirit Wear

Friday - November 18 - PJ/ Slipper Day

Thank you for supporting this wonderful cause!

The PTA Board is fundraising through Little Caesars Pizza kits. These kits are made from high quality ingredients and taste so much better than the hot and readys. Plus a large portion goes directly back to the school and allows us to do some really incredible things for our students and staff.

You can shop using the following link through November 23rd

https://fundraising.littlecaesars.com/fundraisers/support/764d1911-7050-42fd-9f69-9b9becdfd2bd

Our classroom membership contest is in full swing! Now through November 30th the classroom with the largest number of PTA members in each grade, will receive a special prize from the PTA.

Consider becoming a PTA member. your $7.00 gets you voting rights and helps provide so much for the school. Through our memberships and fundraising the PTA has provided Raz kids subscriptions to 11 classrooms, purchased 500 pairs of headphones for the school, and will help sponsor more family fun events.

https://buchanan.memberhub.com/store/items/15647

Reflections, the National PTA's annual art competition, is now accepting entries! The program offers students the opportunity to create works of art in one of six categories: Dance Choreography, Film Production, Literature, Music Composition, Photography, and Visual Arts. The theme for this year is "Show Your Voice." All entries are due November 11, 2022. Entries can be emailed to valerieRjackson@gmail.com or dropped off in the front office. For more information, rules and guidelines, and the entry form please use the links below:

PTSA Reflections Web Page

https://livoniaptsacouncil.org/work/reflections-arts-awards-competition/

Reflections Rules & Guidelines

https://www.livoniapublicschools.org/cms/lib/MI50000451/Centricity/Domain/18/2022-23-reflections-rules-brochure.pdf

Reflections Entry Form

https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/review?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:4563d9c5-b5df-4666-8265-a78213b6620d

Show your Buchanan Bear pride with items from our spiritwear store

https://www.buchananspiritwear.com

We hope to see you at our next meeting Tuesday November 15th @ 7 pm in the LMC.

Ms. Medellin won a $300 classroom make over grant from Meemic! This was a great day at Buchanan. Thank you Meemic.

Mrs. Wilson's Notes:

Wow, we had such a fun and busy week here at Buchanan! Halloween was amazing, students were so happy and excited to celebrate with their teachers and classmates. Thank you to parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles that could stop in to visit. The Boo Bash / Trunk or Treat was outstanding as well. It was a beautiful night and the costumes were so creative and fun! Thank you to all the families that decorated trucks for our students. I have started adding pictures on our facebook page, (Buchanan Elementary) so please visit and enjoy.

Just a reminder there is no school on Tuesday, November 8th, 2022 - Our amazing staff will be out in the district learning and growing. Have a great day.

Lastly, Congratulations to our very own Falcon Flag cheerleaders for placing 3rd in pom and our Freshman cheerleaders for placing 1st in pom and 3rd cheer. We are all so proud of the hard work and dedication you put into the whole season.

Good Luck to the Falcon Flag football team this weekend in the Super Bowl. Do your best and make us proud.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Trunk or Treat. It was an incredible night made possible by all our wonderful families who donated and sponsored vehicles! Thank you!

Treat buckets were sent home with the candy estimate winners on Monday.

The pumpkin classroom winners are:

-Kindergarten

-Mrs. Jones

-Mrs. Benson

-Mrs. Trantham

-Mrs. Banter

Thank you to everyone who participated. We had some really amazing pumpkins!

Thank you to everyone who participated in our MSU/U of M coin war.

U of M won with an astounding 6300 points to MSU's 3100! And we raised over $200 to go towards school enrichment!

The PTA Board is fundraising through Little Caesars Pizza kits. These kits are made from high quality ingredients and taste so much better than the hot and readys. Plus a large portion goes directly back to the school and allows us to do some really incredible things for our students and staff.

You can shop using the following link through November 23rd

https://fundraising.littlecaesars.com/fundraisers/support/764d1911-7050-42fd-9f69-9b9becdfd2bd

Consider becoming a PTA member. your $7.00 gets you voting rights and helps provide so much for the school. Through our memberships and fundraising the PTA has provided Raz kids subscriptions to 11 classrooms, purchased 500 pairs of headphones for the school, and will help sponsor more family fun events.

https://buchanan.memberhub.com/store/items/15647

Reflections, the National PTA's annual art competition, is now accepting entries! The program offers students the opportunity to create works of art in one of six categories: Dance Choreography, Film Production, Literature, Music Composition, Photography, and Visual Arts. The theme for this year is "Show Your Voice." All entries are due November 11, 2022. Entries can be emailed to valerieRjackson@gmail.com or dropped off in the front office. For more information, rules and guidelines, and the entry form please use the links below:

PTSA Reflections Web Page

https://livoniaptsacouncil.org/work/reflections-arts-awards-competition/

Reflections Rules & Guidelines

https://www.livoniapublicschools.org/cms/lib/MI50000451/Centricity/Domain/18/2022-23-reflections-rules-brochure.pdf

Reflections Entry Form

https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/review?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:4563d9c5-b5df-4666-8265-a78213b6620d

This week has been great at Buchanan. Thank you for all the support and sharing your sweet children with us.

Friday 10-28-22- Boo Bash- I can't wait to see all the Bears here tonight in their costumes. Remember we still follow the school rules after school and have fun safely! Please come say hi, I will be here tonight. ( 5:30-7:30)

Monday 10-31-22 ( Halloween)

2:45p.m. Grade 1-4 will have a Halloween parade outside (weather permitting) here at Buchanan. Parents and family members can find a place outside the building to stand and see all of the students pass by. In the event we have rainy weather, the doors will open at 2:40pm and the parade will take place inside. Parents and family members will find a place in the hallway to view the parade.

Once the parade concludes, parents can sign out their students at their exterior classroom doors.

Just as a reminder- Toy weapons, masks and make up are NOT permitted during the day at school.

Tuesday 11-1-22- Happy November (Lunch menu is below)

Thursday 11-3-22 Picture Re-takes

Outdoor Recess- Student go out for two recess's a day. It's starting to get colder however, we do go out as long as the real feel is 15 degrees or higher. Please dress your child accordingly or send layers. Hats and gloves come in handy as well. If you are in need of any of these items, please reach out to Mrs. Blazek. 734-744-2690.

Look at these amazing Kindergarten authors. They labeled their cover page and wrote about bats. They were so excited to share. Well done authors. We are all so proud of you!

I have again so many thank yous, I am not even sure where to start.

Thank you to the PTA for an amazing dinner for the staff the week of conferences, it was amazing. We even had lunch the next day.

Thank you Cantoro's for all the amazing donations and assistance throughout the year. We appreciate the generosity.

Thank you again to all the parents for donating candy and PTA for organizing the upcoming Boo Bash on Friday October 28th, 5:30-7:30. I can't wait to see our Bears having a blast.

Lastly, thank you to the community for joining the PTA, with your donations the PTA purchased 500 headphones! We already have 175 here and ready for our students. (see picture below)

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend, Please reach out or stop by if you have an questions or concerns, I have an open door policy.

The Pandemic has had an astonishing effect on our children. The Zones of Regulation help our children identify how they are feeling. The next step is to teach children what to do when they are experiencing these "Big Feelings." By creating a calm down place at home is a positive way to help your child to regulate his/her emotions and calm his/her body. The following article explains how to create a calm down place and when to use it. Although the article is geared for preschoolers it is applicable for all ages.

How to Create a Calm Down Corner at Home

Flyers for Youth Making A Difference have come home this week. Please Consider signing up for this amazing program that helps our youth get involved in their community.

Join us for our Riverside State night Tonight from 5:30 to 7:30! We hope to see you there!

We also hope to see you at our Trunk or treat on Friday, October 28th from 5:30 to 7:30. Please consider decorating a vehicle to pass out treats or donating food and non-food treats. Please use the sign up genius

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/805054da8ac22a6ff2-trunk

The PTA has set up a coin war for the U of M versus Michigan State game. The bins are in the front entrance of the school. It's a fun game. Pennies and dollars give points to your team, while silver takes away points from your opponent. Please consider supporting this fun event with your spare change, which will conclude after boo bash.
Send your spare change in a Ziploc bag labeled with which team you would like it to be put in.

Consider becoming a PTA member. your $7.00 gets you voting rights and helps provide so much for the school. Through our memberships and fundraising the PTA has provided RAz kids subscriptions to 11 classrooms, purchased 500 pairs of headphones for the school, and will help sponsor more family fun events at the school like our upcoming Trunk or Treat!
https://buchanan.memberhub.com/store/items/15647

Reflections, the National PTA's annual art competition, is now accepting entries! The program offers students the opportunity to create works of art in one of six categories: Dance Choreography, Film Production, Literature, Music Composition, Photography, and Visual Arts. The theme for this year is "Show Your Voice." All entries are due November 11, 2022. Entries can be emailed to valerieRjackson@gmail.com or dropped off in the front office. For more information, rules and guidelines, and the entry form please use the links below:

PTSA Reflections Web Page
https://livoniaptsacouncil.org/work/reflections-arts-awards-competition/
Reflections Rules & Guidelines
https://www.livoniapublicschools.org/cms/lib/MI50000451/Centricity/Domain/18/2022-23-reflections-rules-brochure.pdf
Reflections Entry Form
https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/review?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:4563d9c5-b5df-4666-8265-a78213b6620d

Thank you to our families that attended Parent/Teacher Conferences this week. The best way you can support your child to grow academically, socially and emotionally is to stay involved in their education. That means communicating with your child's teacher, ask questions and keep up the positive feedback throughout the school year.

The conference doesn’t end here. You have the right to know, at any time, about your child’s progress. A telephone call or email to your child’s teacher, will allow you to set up an appointment at a time convenient to both of you. Teachers value the interest and opinions of parents.

Halloween- Save the date for the Buchanan Halloween Parade. We will have a parade for grades 1-4 on Monday October 31st @2:45. Kindergarten teachers will reach out with their plans for Halloween.

Thank you to everyone who joined us at our general meeting this week.

In case you missed it here are some highlights

- the PTA purchased supplies to jump start the new steam room

- Raz-Kids program was renewed in 11 classrooms

-500 new sets of headphones were purchased for the entire school

Join us for our Riverside State night on Friday, October 21st from 5:30 to 7:30

We also hope to see you at our Trunk or treat on Friday, October 28th from 5:30 to 7:30. Please consider decorating a vehicle to pass out treats or donating food and non-food treats. Please use the sign up genius

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/805054da8ac22a6ff2-trunk

The PTA has set up a coin war for the U of M versus Michigan State game. The bins are in the front entrance of the school. It's a fun game. Pennies and dollars give points to your team, while silver takes away points from your opponent. Please consider supporting this fun event with your spare change, that will conclude after boo bash.

Send your spare change in in a Ziploc bag labeled with which team you would like it to be put in.

Just wrapping up another great week here at Buchanan. Students are learning routines, classrooms continue to build a safe and caring community and overall students are happy and learning.

Conferences are this week and this too is one of my favorite days to have that one on one time with your child's teacher. This is a great time to ask questions, hear how your child is doing here at school and most importantly celebrate and make goals. Please stop in and say hi if you have extra time:)

Here's this weeks schedule and some save the dates:

Saturday 10/8/22- PTA photo fundraiser ( Buchanan 12-4) Make sure you are signed up!

Monday 10/10/22- All school assembly

Tuesday 10/11/22- Picture Day- Bring all your smiles

PTA meeting- 7:00 Buchanan LMC (Babysitting is available) Please join us:)

Wednesday 10/12/22- PM conferences

Thursday 10/13/22- All day and evening conferences (NO SCHOOL for students )

Friday 10/14/22- Students are back, we miss you!

These past weeks I had the pleasure of teaching in all of the first grade classrooms. I introduced the children to the Four Zones of Regulation. This helps children first identify that their body is having a feeling. We then practiced naming the feeling and finally we practiced strategies to help us get back to "green" or ready to learn. Once we are able to notice and name these emotions that we are feeling or that someone else may be feeling we are then able to help them. The first grade teachers will use this strategy to "check in" with their students. This will allow them to intervene if a child might need some assistance throughout the day. Children will also be able to use this strategy to help their friends. Building a positive classroom culture is a top priority at Buchanan.

Wow, its October! How did that go so fast? This week has been a great week at Buchanan. I saw so many happy students at the PTA sponsored book fair. Thank you to all the volunteers that made that happen for our children.

Reminder- No school on Monday 10/3- This is a professional Development Day for our teachers. Enjoy the day, its suppose to be sunny and 63. Fingers crossed it stays that way.

Friday 10/7-

• Reading Proficiency Reports and iReady reading and math reports come home in student backpacks. These reports summarize our beginning of the year testing. If you have any questions please reach out to your son or daughter's teacher.

Please also make sure you received a conference link from your child's teacher. Virtual or in person is your choice. If you have not seen it please reach out. Conferences are a great opportunity to be an active member of your child's team. We are on your team to help your child socially, emotionally and academically.

As always please reach out if I can be any help or you have any questions, my door is always open.

As you have seen in many Buchanan Blast's, these wonderful ladies have offered articles and guidance to support students and families. I wanted to take a minute to introduce them.

Mrs. Taylor (looking at the picture on my left) is our academic EST, has many roles, her focus is to help students that need extra reading intervention perhaps out of the classroom. She is a rock star in helping students be successful here at Buchanan.

Mrs. Blazek (looking at the picture on my right) is our Social and Emotional EST. She too has many roles, however her focus is the social, emotional and medical needs of our Buchanan Bears. Mrs. Blazek is very talented in helping students and families here at Buchanan. We are incredibly blessed to have them both here at Buchanan.

Did you know that your child's day starts off with a morning meeting? Teachers all through Buchanan are using social emotional learning strategies to create lasting meaningful relationships with your child. According to the article below there are many other benefits to including social emotional learning throughout the school day.

10 Reasons Why SEL Belongs in Schools

Mrs. Hurula's class was working so hard on their special person of the week letters. I stopped in and saw AMAZING first grade writing. Students were using 5 colors in their illustrations, they were using their BEST handwriting and stretching words on their own. This is so great to see on week 4 of school. Go first grade!

Join the PTA: Membership is easy! Your $7.00 does so much for the
school and gives you voting rights in decisions affecting our school,
staff, and students. https://buchanan.memberhub.com/store/items/15647

Spirit wear: Show your school spirit in Buchanan branded items!

https://buchananspiritwear.com

Book Fair: Our fall Scholastic Book Fair was a great success! Staff
members who became PTA members all received $50.00 each to shop for
their classrooms

Follow us on Facebook: @BuchananElementraySchoolPTA

Email us: pta.buchanan1@gmail.com

Our next meeting is Tuesday October 11th at 7 pm. Childcare will be provided.

Our first Riverside Skate Night will be Friday October 21st 5:30-7:30
(More details to follow)
Save the date for our Trunk or Treat/ Boo Bash Friday October 28th

See below for the Photo session scan code

Wow, how is our 3rd week of school already complete? I have enjoyed every second of the school year. I have seen students learning letters, how to rhyme, students helping other students out of the kindness of their hearts, STEM activities being done as a team and morning meetings getting to know each other. I am honored and excited to the Buchanan Principal with such amazing Bears! Buchanan staff have been focusing the last 3 weeks on getting to know students, establish routines and also getting to know where each student is academically. We are all excited for a year full of learning and making positive memories.

Here are some important dates to mark your calendar:

Week of Monday 9/26 - Friday 9/30

Buchanan Book Fair (Teachers will inform you of your child's shopping day and time)

Monday, September 26, 2022 - Please look for a link after 4:00 p.m. from your child's teacher to sign up for a conference. You may choose between virtual and in person.

Monday, October 3, 2022 - No school for students. (Professional Development for Teachers)

Saturday, October 8, 2022 - Family Photo Fundraiser, see flyer below.

Tuesday, October 11, 2022 - Buchanan Fall Picture Day; PTA meeting @7:00 in the LMC (Babysitting is available)

Wednesday, October 12, 2022 - Evening Conferences

Thursday, October 13, 2022 - NO School for students. Conferences all day and evening.

Friday, October 14, 2022- Full day of school for students

Last week I promised to share one of my favorite ways to have organic conversations with my own children that expands their general knowledge. My children and I love to take walks and while we do, we play a game called '3 Treasures'. The goal of 3 Treasures is to find 3 interesting things while on our walk. There are really no rules to this game! Instead, questions are asked and I do my best to give answers and foster that innocent curiosity. Last week my 3 year old spotted a camper in someone's driveway and I promise you there were questions asked until he feel asleep! Play 3 Treasures in the car, on the way to school or at a restaurant! I can't wait to hear what treasures you find!!

Did you know by giving your child age developmental appropriate chores can help set them up for future success?

10 Reasons Why Children Need Chores to Help with Success

Our second week of school is complete. We have had an amazing week here at Buchanan. Kids are happy, safe and learning. Students started the week at our Monday assembly. Lots of smiles and excitement. Our safety dills went well and I am so proud of all the grades listening to expectations and practicing each drill. Lastly, I have seen so many morning meetings, math and ELA lessons and the students are so engaged and excited to be back in school.

State testing letter coming home today

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Last spring, students throughout the state of Michigan in grades 3-8 and 11 took the state’s required assessments M-STEP, MiAccess and MME (includes PSAT and SAT). These assessments are designed to require students to demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Many of the subject area tests also require students to write responses and show their work, instead of merely selecting a multiple choice response.

Today, your student will bring home the Parent Report from the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) which includes your student’s scores on the 2022 State Testing. The letter will explain the results and additional information and test results can be found on the Michigan Department of Education’s website at www.michigan.gov/mstep.

Theresa L. O'Brien

Chief Academic Officer

Thank you everyone who joined us at our first PTA meeting of the year on Tuesday evening. We had an incredible turnout and we are always so happy to meet our incoming members.

The book Fair is being held 9/26 through 9/30.

If you would like to help with classroom shopping times, please use the sign up genius below to volunteer

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0549ACAD2EA4FB6-book3

A special shout out to the Stevenson NHS. Through their wonderful efforts we are able to provide child care at every PTA meeting.

The next PTA meeting is October 11th at 7:00 p.m. in the library. Hope to see you there!

15 years ago, a seven year old in Kalamazoo practically knocked me off of my chair when he asked me what a butterfly was! Had he never seen a butterfly before?! Had he never read a book about butterflies?! How had he actually lived for 7 years and avoided a butterfly all that time?!

I was emotional about this event because this particular child had so little knowledge about so many common things in our world. What was he being robbed of? The answer is simple, natural conversations.

Our children's natural curiosity and their never ending WHY's are the most perfect times to expand their knowledge and grow their little brains.

Recently I was reading a book about butterflies with my son. He was able to figure out difficult words in the book because he has held butterflies, helped me raise butterflies in the summertime, been to a butterfly house, read books about butterflies, drawn pictures of butterflies on the back of placemats. Now imagine the same student from Kalamazoo reading that book and you will quickly see that he has no chance of keeping up.

Look back here next week to see one of my favorite ways to have organic conversations with my kids.

Attention parents! Stay connected with all of the fantastic things happening at Buchanan Elementary by following Buchanan Elementary on Facebook and @buchanan_lps on Twitter!

Happy Friday! Thank you all for such a great night last night at open house. This is always one of my most favorite nights of the year. It was great seeing all the families and proud students. I hope you enjoyed learning about your child's day here at Buchanan.

As I sit here and reflect about the first week of the 2022-2023 school year, I am nothing but proud and impressed. I am so proud of the kindness I have seen with our Buchanan Bears. I witnessed our older students noticing younger students unsure of where to go or needing help with backpacks, our older students stepped up to help without being asked. This melted my heart. I was also so impressed with the students and staff on Wednesday, our first full day. We lost power for three hours, students and staff made the absolute best of the situation. We even had fun and laughter was throughout the building all afternoon. I am even more excited for a great school year of learning, growing and joy.

Lastly, I’d like to thank the amazing Buchanan PTA, they have been so supportive and visible from Kona with the Kindergarten and of course Open House/ Curriculum night. The students enjoyed the magician so much while parents learned about their child’s classroom. A HUGE thank you to our PTA. Please consider joining the PTA as they have many more events planned for our Buchanan Bears. See below for more details.

As a building principal and mother of 3, safety is very important to me and Livonia Public Schools. This week all students will be practicing safely drills here at Buchanan. This is a great time to discuss safety drills at home too!

Monday, September 12, 2022 - Monday morning assembly

Tuesday, September 13, 2022 - PTA meeting at 7:00p.m. in the Buchanan LMC. Please come and hear all the exciting events planned for your children this year.

Wednesday, September 14, 2022 -

Thursday, September 15, 2022 -

Friday, September 16, 2022 - Have a wonderful weekend!

• Join the PTA: Membership is easy! Your $7.00 does so much for the school and gives you voting rights in decisions affecting our school, staff, and students. Anyone who joins in the month of September is eligible to win one of two $50.00 Cantoro Market Gift cards!

https://buchanan.memberhub.com/store/items/15647

• Spirit wear: Show your school spirit in Buchanan branded items! Visit the store

https://buchananspiritwear.com Act now, free shipping!!

• Book Fair: Our fall Scholastic Book Fair will be held Monday 9/26 through Friday 9/30. Look for information to come home with your student(s) next week!

• Follow us on Facebook: @BuchananElementraySchoolPTA

• Email us: pta.buchanan1@gmail.com

• Our First meeting of the year is Tuesday September 13th @ 7 We hope to see you there!

A friendly reminder of parking lot etiquette:

Just a reminder to all parents/grandparents/guardians, that our parking lot can be a very dangerous place while dropping off students at the building so please keep these things in mind:

• Reduce your speed while entering and exiting the parking lots.

• The cut off time to use the designated exit lane is 8:40. We do this to ensure the safety of students and other vehicles who need to exit the parking lot.

• Obey stop signs unless otherwise directed by Bobby. If Bobby is unable to be at the crosswalk, please stop at all times. When dropping off your student, please pull all the way forward. This allows space for other vehicles behind yours to drop off their children simultaneously

• Be sure your student(s) are packed up and ready to exit the vehicle (backpack, water bottle, jacket, lunch box, etc... all should be easily accessible to your student and staff members).

• Be cautious of other traffic, especially buses, as you pull away from the designated drop off area.

Thank you for keeping our children safe here at Buchanan!

Our sweet little kindergarteners are having recess at the end of the day. If you are picking up your child at the end of the day please stay in your car or the front of the building until 3:50. This is for the safety of our children. Thank you!

College comes quick…a great way to get prepared! See Below for more information. This information was share at Kindergarten Curriculum night as well.

LPS Education Foundation (google.com)

IS YOUR CHILD GETTING ENOUGH SLEEP?

Many children end up extending their bedtimes over the summer. Going back to school is a great time for getting your child on a more consistent sleep schedule. Did you know that lack of sleep can cause loss of cognitive function, concentration difficulties and lower test schools. The following article from the Cleveland Clinic tells you how much sleep your child needs and how to help them get it.

Is Your Child Getting Enough Sleep?

Hi Buchanan Families~

The Buchanan staff is getting so excited for the first day of school. We will be wearing Buchanan shirts if you or your child needs ANY assistance. Also, please make sure your child's teacher knows how your child is getting home each day.

See our updated map where your child will line up in the morning.

You will also see a beautiful first day of school sign in front of the building. ( see below) You may use as a photo opt, if you are able. We hope you enjoy this special morning.

We look forward to seeing everyone on Thursday 9/8 for Curriculum Night and Open House.

Please join us for an exciting night of learning all about your child's day at school. The generous PTA has arranged a show by DynaMike the magician for your school aged students while you learn this years curriculum and classroom expectations.. DynaMike will have 2 sessions to meet both Curriculum night needs. Open house is at 6:00pm for K-4, your child will show you their class and school.

Thursday September 8, 2022

5:30-6:00 K-2 Curriculum Night

6:00-6:30 K-4 Open House

6:30-7:00 3-4 Curriculum Night

Welcome to the first weekly update for the 2022-23 school year! I hope you look forward to this weekly newsletter coming out every Friday. The Buchanan staff is so excited to see all the boys and girls on the first day of school. Please enjoy this special morning . Give your baby a HUGE hug, and wish them the best first half day! Our first day ends at 12:10pm

Wednesday, August 31- Check parent connect for your child's teacher assignment.

https://www.livoniapublicschools.org/domain/273

Thursday, September 1- Kona with the Kindergarten Kiddos on the Buchanan playground 6:00pm-7:00pm

Please stop by the PTA welcome table to find out all the amazing events planned for this year.

Friday, September 2-5 Labor Day weekend. Enjoy!

Monday ,September 5- No School

Tuesday, September 6- First day! 1/2 day- 12:10 dismissal

Wednesday, September 7- First full day. Lunch is available

Thursday, September 8- Curriculum Night/ Open House

Friday, September 9-

Free and Reduced-Price Meals

• Parents are able to apply for free and reduced-price meals online. Please CLICK HERE to submit an application.
  
  If you would rather submit a paper application, please CLICK HERE to download and print the application. All submission instructions are included in the file.

  HOW TO APPLY FOR FREE OR REDUCED-PRICE MEALS - CLICK HERE

Report an Absence

Parents should excuse absence by using one of the following methods:

1. Fill out the “Report an Absence” form on the Buchanan website main page under Quick Links. (preferred method) Buchanan Attendance Form (google.com)

2. If you are unable to access our website, please call the Buchanan Attendance line 734-744-2690 (option #1).

If your student will be tardy, an adult must walk them into the building and sign them in for the day. If your student will be leaving early during the school day, please try to avoid lunch & recess times.

Anxiety and Returning to school

Blessings in a Backpack-Livonia is an all-volunteer program designed to provide students who are in need with enough food for three meals a day during the weekends. If you participate in this program, your child will receive a bag at the end of every week of school (Thursday or Friday) filled with non-perishable food for the weekend. There is no cost to you for participating in this program. No further information is required. Your information will not be shared. If you would like to have your child participate in this program, fill out and submit the form using the link below as soon as possible. We are requesting your name and email address, so that a confirmation of registration will be emailed to you. Delivery will begin the week of September 13th.

https://forms.gle/VNJbU83y2LgjMxNf8

If your child participated in the program last year, we do need a new enrollment form for this school year.

Currently, we are providing prepackaged bags so we are unable to customize for allergies or religious dietary needs. We apologize for any inconvenience.

****You will need to complete a separate form for each child that you wish to enroll.****

If you have any additional questions, please feel free to email us at biablivonia@gmail.com