United South Central Elementary
March/April - Rebel Review - Rebel Preview
Principal's Corner
March/April Newsletter
Dear Parents/Guardians:
I've often referenced the saying "March In Like a Lion..." in previous March newsletters. However, with the unseasonably warm weather and mild temperatures we have experienced this year, our “lamb-like weather” that has persisted all winter long is set to continue, and it looks to be a warm month. I believe we have earned it; however, we could use some moisture for spring planting. As we close out the month of February and transition from winter to spring with academics and activities, our focus remains on encouraging students to strive for their best.
As we prepare for parent-teacher conferences and MCA assessments this month, it's crucial to enhance our ability to reflect on recent achievements and identify areas for growth. In comparison, short-term observations of your child's progress may only sometimes reveal significant gains; a broader look from the beginning of the year until now provides a clearer understanding of their development. There is much to celebrate.
Join us on Monday, March 4, for parent-teacher conferences from 3:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. These conferences allow you to meet with your child's teacher, discuss progress, and collaborate on strategies to support your student. We've already held conferences twice this year: orientation conferences in September and fall conferences in November. Additionally, on March 4, we'll have an open house conference time from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. for any parent/guardian who wishes to visit with their child's teacher, along with scheduled conferences from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
At these conferences, educators are often asked how parents can help their child(ren) be more successful at school. Given our continued focus on literacy, I want to emphasize the importance of reading to your child daily. Engage them in discussions before, during, and after reading, connecting stories to real-life experiences to deepen their understanding and language skills.
If you're considering attending Parent-Teacher Conferences, you can start preparing strategic questions to address areas for improvement and maximize collaboration with school staff. If you are unable to attend, please feel free to reach out to your child's teacher to maintain open communication.
In closing, I am grateful for your efforts as parents in supporting your child's education. Your partnership is invaluable, and USC Elementary thrives because of your participation and continuous support.
Warm Regards,
Jennifer Taylor
USC Elementary Principal
It’s a Great Day to be a Rebel
Rebel Rights Be Responsible, Be Respectful, Be Safe
Important Dates to Remember
February 29 - March 8 - Scholastic Book Fair in the Media Center
March 1 - Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast in the Commons from 7:00 - 8:15 a.m.
March 4 - Parent/Teacher Conferences from 3:30 to 7:00 p.m.
March 5 - Two-Hour Late Start: buses will be two hours late, and breakfast will not be served that morning. Students may arrive at school at 10:00 A.M.
March 18 - 22 - Spring Week Dress-Up Days (See image below)
March 27 - Kindergarten Round-Up
March 28 & 29 and April 1 - No School - Spring Break
March 31 End of the Third Quarter
Let's Keep Reading and Green Eggs and Ham
Throughout February, USC elementary students celebrated I Love to Read Month! As highlighted in the February newsletter, students engaged in many activities to foster a love for reading at school and home. These included dress-up days, reading opportunities, and a Green Eggs and Ham breakfast on March 1st, where we proudly served 690 individuals, setting a new record!
Although February has come to a close, it's important to remember that every day of the year should be dedicated to promoting reading. The significance of reading cannot be overstated—it serves as the foundation for success in all academic subjects and is essential for functioning in today's society. I encourage you to continue prioritizing reading by encouraging your child to participate actively in their reading journey or simply reading together. Let's celebrate success in reading and keep the joy of reading alive—just read.
* Special recognition is due to Kim Gormley, the Reading Committee, Jamie Gordon Kamm, the kitchen staff, and Jim Elmer and crew for going above and beyond the call of duty to make the Green Eggs and Ham breakfast a success this year.
Second Quarter Rebel Pride Celebration
For this year's quarterly Rebel Pride Celebrations, teachers nominate students from each grade level who consistently embody the USC Rebel Rights of being Respectful, Responsible, and Safe in their daily interactions in the classroom, hallways, and events. The selected students are recognized during the Rebel Pride ceremony, with their names announced, and they receive a framed certificate and a prize. Class rewards differ each quarter, and during the second quarter, students enjoyed a movie with their class.
Respect Award
This award is given to students who go above and beyond, showing respect to staff, students, and property during the quarter.
Pictured (L to R) Henlee Thofson, Jerard Young, Christian Fernandez, Parker Field, Callahan Scholten
Responsible Award
This award is given to students who show up on time, are dedicated to completing work, and help others during the quarter.
Pictured (L to R) Ava Henning, Paizley Crawford, Jesse Solis Guiterres, Easton Schnebly, Reese Leland
Safety Award
This award is given to students who make safe choices, keep their hands and feet to themselves, and follow safety protocols in the classroom and throughout the building.
(L to R) Cathryn Davis, Ferlly Aguilar, Ariadne Contreras Rosa, Angela Hicks, and Norie Leland (pictured below)
Fundraisers for Audie
At USC, we are United in standing with Audie Olsen and her family as she courageously battles leukemia. We have organized a series of fundraisers to demonstrate our solidarity and support. Keep an eye out for a bake sale during the Rebels Boys Basketball Playoff on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, and Hat Days on Fridays. Also, you can purchase bracelets or clothing to support Audie by clicking on this link. The deadline to order is March 6th at Midnight.
Your generosity and support are deeply appreciated.
Rebel Bucks
In February, we introduced a new initiative called Rebel Bucks in grades K-4. This program rewards students who demonstrate our Rebel Rights of being Respectful, Responsible, and Safe with Rebel Bucks, which they can then use to shop for prizes at our store. Each classroom has a designated shopping day during the week. Students can choose from various items, including pencils, erasers, stuffed animals, and even lunch with the School Resource Officer, Principal, and Superintendent. This program encourages positive behavior and teaches students valuable lessons about saving and spending money wisely.
It's Time to Order a Yearbook!
Remember to preserve your child's precious memories by ordering a USC Elementary yearbook, capturing their growth and milestones throughout the school year. Yearbooks are available for order until April 4, costing $17.00. Order forms were sent out in December. If you require an additional form, there are extras in the elementary office.
Payment can be made in cash, by check (made out to Strawbridge), or through credit card (online orders include a fee).
To order online, visit the link: https://strawbridge.fotomerchanthv.com/search/YB29666.
Ensure you secure this lasting tribute to your child's elementary experience.
Elementary School Vitals
Entrance into the Building
We kindly request that parents drop off and pick up students outside the main doors for safety reasons. If a parent/guardian needs to access the school building for any reason, they are required to check in at the elementary or high school office and get a name badge prior to entering the building. Ensuring the safety of our students remains our utmost concern, and we appreciate your cooperation in the matter.
Drop off and pick up at USC Elementary
Students will enter the school by the main door by the elementary office
Students can enter the building at 8:10 A.M. after they are lined up outside. Please be mindful to drop your students off as close to 8:10 A.M. as possible to alleviate a long wait before the start of the school day.
Students who have breakfast can access the school building at 7:50 A.M. Upon arrival, they should proceed directly to the Commons Area. After breakfast, students will return outside and enter the elementary building at 8:10 A.M., when the official school day begins. It is important to note that students are not permitted to enter the elementary building until 8:10 A.M.
Students will be dismissed from the main doors by the office.
Crosswalks: To prioritize students' safety, we request that everyone consistently use the designated crosswalks when dropping off or picking up students. We emphasize that our top priority is ensuring the safety of our students, and we discourage any attempts to walk between school buses, as it poses a significant safety risk. We would like for both parents and students to use the designated crosswalks exclusively.
Parking Advisory: To ensure the safety of our students, staff, and visitors, please make sure you are parked legally when dropping off or picking up your children before and after school. You can avoid potential issues by following parking regulations.
Parent Contact Information: Please notify the elementary office if your email address or telephone number changes. It is imperative that we are able to contact you in case of a school-wide emergency or your child becomes ill. Also, keeping your contact information current will ensure you receive notices and announcements from the school.
Extra Clothing: Please send an extra set of clothing with your child. It is important we have an extra set of clothing in the event of spills, mud, accidents, and wet clothing from recess. Thank you.
Outdoor Recess: As spring weather approaches there are days with decreasing temperatures, it's essential to remember that your child(ren) will have outdoor recess every day, weather permitting. Your assistance in ensuring your students come to school adequately prepared for the weather is greatly appreciated. Unless the temperature is 60 degrees or higher, please ensure your child wears a jacket or coat. Additionally, during the winter months, students must have the appropriate outdoor attire, such as layers, hats, mittens/gloves, scarves, boots, and snow pants when the snow is on the ground or mud on the playground. Thank you in advance for your help in making sure your child feels comfortable outside at recess. If you have any questions or concerns, please call the Elementary Office at (507) 553-5810.
Lost and Found: Please consider checking the tables in the Commons area, near the vending machine, for any misplaced items belonging to your child. To prevent your child's items from ending up in Lost and Found, please ensure all clothing is labeled correctly with their name.
Spotlight on...
Spotlight on Second Grade
In Mrs. W’s class, students explored different bird species during science and got creative by crafting birdhouses using cups, pipe cleaners, string, and aluminum foil. They eagerly shared insights into their chosen birds' diets and discussed how their birdhouses offered protection from predators, such as cats.
Spotlight on Kindergarten
Mrs. Hansen’s kindergarten class celebrated the "100 Days of Seeing You" milestone on February 9th, the 100th day of school. The students participated in various activities centered around the theme of 100, making the day extra special and memorable.
Spotlight on First Grade
Students in Mrs. Olson's and Mrs. Stenzel's first-grade classes had a wonderful time dressing up in the spirit of Valentine's Day and decorating cookies during their party.
Spotlight on Fifth and Sixth Grades
Students in the fifth and sixth grades got the opportunity to hear a presentation by Craig Hillier, who challenges young people to make the most of their lives. Throughout his presentation, he shared strategies with the students to help them make positive choices and to inspire them to exceed their potential.
Spotlight on Fifth Grade
The fifth-grade class had the exciting opportunity to revisit the Ordway Theatre in Saint Paul and attend the performance of "Dr. Kaboom," a Science Comedy show that cleverly combined theater arts with the marvels of scientific exploration. Our very own Makinlee Gossen got called up on stage to participate. Fun was had by all!
Out and About at USC
In Memory of Joan Christian 1961 - 2024 - Faith Over Fear
Jennifer Taylor, USC Elementary Principal
Email: jtaylor@unitedsouthcentral.org
Location: 600 11th Street Southwest, Wells, MN, USA
Phone: 507-553-5810