The Core

October 29, 2021, Volume 13, Issue 12

Notes from the Principal

Hello Orchard Parents,

It's hard to believe that it is the end of October and Fall is almost over. We just have three weeks before our Parent Conferences and Thanksgiving break.

In advance of the upcoming holidays, we are asking parents for donations for families in need. Though this is not a PTO fundraiser, the PTO manages the donations for us so we can then put the donations to good use. Please see the letter below for more details on how you can donate.


We have a special request for families - please give yourself plenty of time when dropping your child off at school. There are students of all ages being dropped off so it is really important to make sure we each take special care when driving through our drop-off lanes.

We have several families that come through the neighborhood walking or by bike to school. There are even a few dogs as part of the group. Please be aware and allow plenty of space so that everyone can arrive at school safely. Thank you!



Although the menu below is up-to-date, the "supply chain" is showing up in our food service deliveries. Day-to-day selections may be changing and we'll do our best to keep you updated.


Important Dates:

Tuesday, November 2nd - Voting and Teacher In-Service, No School

Monday, November 8th - Picture Retake Day


We wish everyone a safe and enjoyable weekend. For all families who are Trick or Treating, we are asking that candy and treats stay at home. Please remember moderation is best.

Take some time to read with your child.

Mark Trifilio

Happy Diwali to all our families who will be celebrating next week!


Quote of the Week:

“Why fit in when you were born to stand out?”

~ Dr. Seuss

1st Grade Artwork

School Nurse Notes

Test To Stay

The recording of the Town Hall was recorded for Vermont health professionals and representation from the Agency of Education will join together for a virtual Town Hall, hosted by CVSD, to explain the process, the science, and answer questions about the test-to-stay program. We'll share the link when it is available.


COVID-19 Vaccine for 5-11 Year Olds--Approval Process:

  1. This week, the FDA voted to recommend emergency use authorization of Pfizer vaccine, for ages 5-11.
  2. ACIP (Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices) meets on November 2nd/3rdscuss.
  3. Once the CDC director gives the endorsement, based on ACIP recommendations, vaccine administration may begin.
  4. The soonest Vermont can expect to administer the Pfizer Pediatric 5-11 year old vaccine will be November 4th.


COVID Vaccine: What Parents Need to Know

This John's Hopkin's article (click to view) outlines important facts and answers questions for parents/guardians. Vaccination is the best tool to help prevent the spread of COVID-19!


Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself, your loved ones, and others against the virus and its variants; the vaccine helps to prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Getting vaccinated as soon as you can and wearing a mask indoors in public helps to maximize protection from the very contagious Delta variant and spreading it to others.


Booster Shots
You can get a booster shot if you are 18 or older and you received your:

  • 2nd dose of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine at least six months ago or
  • Johnson and Johnson at least two months ago

For Pfizer and Moderna boosters, you should get a booster if you are under 65 and feel at risk of getting COVID-19. The CDC defines risk as:

  • having certain medical conditions
  • working in a job that increases your risk of COVID-19 because you are indoors, exposed to the public and to other workers
  • living in a long term care facility, group home, college dormitory, or other congregate settings
  • Black, Indigenous, or a person of color (BIPOC) or live with someone who is BIPOC.


If you choose to get a different vaccine type for your booster than the type you first got, you cannot make a booster appointment through the Health Department until November 1.

For more information, click on the links below:


Halloween and Holidays--If You Celebrate, Consider the Following Safety Tips:
  • Wear masks in indoor public settings (do NOT put a mask on a child younger than 2)
  • Avoid crowded indoor spaces and parties
  • Trick or treat outside and limit crowds
  • If you feel sick or have symptoms, don't attend or host a gathering
  • Delay travel until fully vaccinated
  • Get vaccinated if you are eligible


Be well,

Kara Cassani, RN & Darcy Mazlish, RN

Orchard School Nurses
SBSD Elementary Health Services
p. (802) 652-7303
f. (802) 652-7354

Ms. Goodrich's Class Celebrating their 100 Goal with Shaving Cream!

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News from the PTO

Square 1 Art: Your child should be coming home today or early next week with Square 1 Art packets. The pamphlet displays your child's art and shows a variety of options that you can order as cool gifts for that special family member or hard-to-buy-for person. With over 40 unique and useful keepsakes ready to purchase, your child's artwork is the perfect gift for any occasion or celebration. Nothing says “you’re loved” like “I made this art keepsake just for you!” Contact Kristin Mount at Orchardschoolvt@gmail.com with any questions.


November PTO Meeting: Join the PTO meeting Wednesday, November 3rd at 6:30. Topics for the month include playground updates, Fun Run final numbers and budget, and some possible events for Spring, such as the play and an Artist Residency. Here is the Zoom link: https://howardcenter.zoom.us/j/82623190624?pwd=QnFQdWJrZlhGVHN1Qk5Hdm9PNkdVUT09


Still not on Konstella? Konstella is a parent portal for people to connect with one another (e.g., to set up playdates), for community event reminders, and for committee sign-ups. Add your child to their classroom today! https://www.konstella.com/cd/YHHCGJ


Questions or Comments for the PTO? Please email Orchardschoolvt@gmail.com

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SB Recreation Department News

Our Community Glow Walk event originally scheduled for this Saturday at the stormwater pond on Market Street has a date change and we are kindly asking if you might help us to get the word out to families. Due to the rain, we’re expecting we have moved up the event to this Friday.

2nd Annual Community Glow Walk

New Date: FRIDAY 6 – 8 pm

Stormwater pond on Market Street

https://www.facebook.com/events/435932907874332?ref=newsfeed


  • We will be handing out glow necklaces and treats.
  • SBPD SRO’s will be handing out treats.
  • Our Sponsor SeaComm FCU has provided boxes of treats.
  • Hangry the Donut Bar will be selling donuts and hot chocolate.


Brett Leonard, CPRP

Recreation Specialist

South Burlington Recreation & Parks

180 Market St, South Burlington, VT 05403

Office: 802-846-4137 Cell: 802-233-4834