Birchwood Banner
March 2024
Mission & Vision
Mission: Birchwood ABC promotes a positive Attitude, excellent Behavior, and a Commitment to lifelong learning
Vision: Our commitment is to ensure all students receive a high quality education and to produce responsible students in a safe environment that values lifelong learning
Principal's Corner
As we transition into spring (hopefully soon) and close out Quarter 3, I want to take a moment to extend my appreciation to our dedicated team of educators who pour their hearts into nurturing our students' potential every day. Their unwavering support and commitment make a profound difference in the lives of our students, and I am grateful for all that they do!
We are headed right into spring break the week of March 11th-15th. When students return post spring break, we will be rapidly approaching AK Star testing for grades 3-5, which will occur between the last week of March/first week of April. Ensuring that students are well-rested is crucial for their academic success, particularly during testing periods. Here's why:
Enhanced Cognitive Functioning: A good night's sleep is essential for cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and problem-solving.
Improved Concentration: Adequate sleep helps students maintain focus and concentration during testing. Sleep deprivation can impair attention and lead to increased distractibility, making it difficult for students to stay on task.
Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Lack of sleep can contribute to feelings of stress and anxiety, which can negatively impact academic performance.
Optimal Physical Health: Sleep plays a vital role in overall physical health and well-being. Chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to a range of health problems, including weakened immune function, increased risk of obesity, and cardiovascular issues.
Improved Problem-Solving Skills: Sleep is essential for consolidating learning and problem-solving skills. During sleep, the brain processes and organizes information gathered throughout the day, strengthening neural connections and enhancing cognitive function.This consolidation process is crucial for academic success.
Prioritizing sleep is essential for students' academic success and overall well-being. By ensuring that students are well-rested, educators and parents can support their ability to perform at their best during testing and other academic activities.
Let's continue to foster a love of learning and a spirit of collaboration within our school community. Together, we can empower our students to reach new heights and embrace the endless possibilities that lie ahead.
Thank you for entrusting us with your child's education and for being valued members of our school family.
Thank you,
Principal Hershman
P.E. Corner
JNYO State Competition
Congratulations to all the students who competed last weekend at the state event. Our kids did very and we are so proud of all of them. Congratulations to Dawson for taking 4th place in the seal hop! A special shoutout to Mrs. Middleton for making our banner this year!
Kids Heart Challenge
Our students raised over $1,000 for the Kids Heart Challenge!
Classroom Challenge Winner- Mrs. Means Class
Top Fundraisers: 1st Noah S, 2nd Isabella T, and 3rd Cooper H
Avocado Drawing Winner- Jacob C.
Healthy Futures Spring Challenge
February activity logs are due by March 5th to Mr. Olson or Ms. Rachel. This month we are doing a double prize, get those March activity logs filled out. [activitylog]
Thank you
This weird weather threw our outdoor PE unit a little out of whack, but classes were able to get out to XC ski, snowshoe, sled and a little snowman building. A HUGE thank you to the amazing volunteers that were able to make it in to assist students with these outdoor activities!
Student Teacher for PE
Mrs. Rachel Arvelo, our school secretary will be completing her professional term with us at Birchwood ABC. She will be observing and leading Physical Education classes for the remainder of the year as she finishes this final collegiate step to becoming a P.E. specialist. Beginning after Spring Break, Ms. Arvelo will be conducting lessons here and there for all classes and will be the lead teacher for Mrs. Dennis’s class. Welcome to P.E. Ms. Arvelo!
Science Fair
If you are available to help judge the science fair on Tuesday March 5th, from 9:30am-1:00 pm please email Mrs. Senn ( Senn_Rebekah@asdk12.org). Breakfast and lunch will be provided. THANK YOU!!!
Art Corner
Taxidermy Donations
Art Class is in search of Taxidermy Donations to enhance our observation drawing skills. If you have items or know someone looking to find a good home for them, please email cunninghamturner_c@asdk12.org or drop off items at the art room. Your support is greatly appreciated!
Visiting Artist
Visiting Artist Delaney Smith - Vaughn from Denton, Texas will be in residence on May 6th and 7th. During Delaney's visit, all students will have the opportunity to learn about paper-making, recycling art, conservation, and sculpture casting. This hands-on workshop will not only enhance their artistic skills but also instill a sense of responsibility for the environment and promote creativity and innovation.
Student Council
Valentines Cookie Sales
Dear Parents,
Thank you for contributing to our successful Valentine's Day fundraiser! Unfortunately, the zoo assembly, which was our original goal for the funds, is no longer an option for the spring semester. Instead, students have voted to have a week-long spirit week with prizes and giveaways, as well as upgrade our recess equipment.
Thanks again for your support.
Sincerely, Student Council
Full Circle “Eat Healthy Initiative”
We are excited to share an initiative that promotes healthy eating and supports our Student Council. Full Circle delivers a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables all year round, ensuring you and your family have access to healthy options. When you subscribe, 12% of each order goes directly to our Student Council, helping us fund important projects and activities at our school.
Click the link below and use code "ABC" to register for the convenience of home delivery:
Author Visit
"Local author Brooke Hartman will be visiting our campus on April 9th. The Student Council and our Parent Teacher Organization have collaborated to provide students with this exceptional experience and fundraising opportunity for our school. Students can preorder books until March 22nd. Please complete the attached form following the provided ordering instructions. Preordered books will be signed in person by Brooke on April 9th. Checks should be made out to Brooke Hartman and delivered to Mrs. Turner's (Student Council Advisor) mailbox."
PTA CORNER
Book Fair
We are looking for volunteers to help us with the book fair! Please see this sign up genius for more information!
https://m.signupgenius.com/#!/showSignUp/70A054BA8AF2BA4F85-48003121-spring
Muffins with Mom
If any dads or father figures would like to help serve our wonderful moms please reach out to birchwoodpta@gmail.com
Staff Doors
PTA is also looking for volunteers to help us decorate the Staff's Doors! Please read more about it in this sign up genius:
https://m.signupgenius.com/#!/showSignUp/70A054BA8AF2BA4F85-48006578-teacher
Examples:
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Character Trait
Diligence: Constant and earnest effort to accomplish what is undertaken.
Dates to Remember
March 6th- Science Fair Open House 5:30 pm
March 6th-Dr. Suess Dress Up Day
March 8th-Student release grading day
March 11th-15th- Spring Break
March 20th- Pajama Dres Up Day
March 21st- BAC Meeting 6pm
March 22nd- Red, White, and Blue assembly 2pm
March 25th-29th-Book Fair
March 27th-Muffins with Moms
March 29th-Hat Day
Thank you to our Sponsors
Tara Murdoch-Barndt and 773d Logistics Readiness Squadron