April 2024 Newsletter
Ochoa Community School
Ochoa scholars show off what they know during state testing
April is the state testing season. We understand that this period can sometimes bring about feelings of stress and anxiety for both students and parents alike. At Ochoa, we believe that a collaborative effort between school and home is essential in ensuring our students feel supported and prepared during this time.
To help your child navigate through the state testing season with confidence and ease, we would like to share some tips on how you can support them at home:
1. Establish a Positive Routine: Encourage your child to maintain a consistent routine leading up to and during the testing period. Ensure they get plenty of rest each night and have a nutritious breakfast in the morning to fuel their brain for optimal performance. Arrive at school on time everyday.
2. Encourage Healthy Habits: Encourage your child to engage in regular physical activity, practice mindfulness techniques, and take breaks when needed. These activities can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
3. Offer Emotional Support: Be attentive to your child's emotional needs and offer words of encouragement and support. Remind them that it's okay to feel nervous and reassure them of your confidence in their abilities.
4. Maintain Open Communication: Keep the lines of communication open with your child's teachers and school staff. If you have any questions or concerns about the testing process or your child's progress, don't hesitate to reach out for assistance.
5. Celebrate Efforts and Achievements: Regardless of the outcome, celebrate your child's efforts and achievements throughout the testing season. Emphasize the importance of hard work, perseverance, and personal growth.
We hope that these tips will help you support your child during the state testing season and create a positive and nurturing environment at home. Together, we can help our students succeed academically and thrive in their educational journey.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support.
Having Fun in the Garden!
Scholars get to learn about composting. They meet up close the heroes in composting, worms! If you would like to help be a volunteer in the garden please call Chuck at 520-225-2418.
April Perfect Attendance Extravaganza Party!
Get you special invitation to the party.
As you may know, April is a crucial time for academic assessments across the state. In order to encourage and recognize our students' dedication to their education during this period, we are thrilled to announce our April Perfect Attendance Extravaganza Party!
Throughout the month of April, we are offering an incentive for perfect attendance to all Kinder through 5th-grade students. If your child is present every day and arrives on time during the month of April, they will be eligible to be a special guest at our April Perfect Attendance Extravaganza Party.
This party will be a celebration of your child's commitment to their education and will include fun activities, games, snacks, and more. It's our way of showing appreciation for their hard work and dedication.
We believe that regular attendance is essential for academic success, and we want to encourage and support our students in developing positive attendance habits. By attending school every day and being punctual, students not only enhance their own learning but also contribute to a positive and cohesive classroom environment.
We encourage you to motivate and remind your child about the importance of attending school regularly and on time, especially during this crucial testing period.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding the April Perfect Attendance Extravaganza Party or attendance in general, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Thank you for your continued support in your child's education. Together, we can help them achieve their fullest potential.
Ochoa welcomes guests from Japan!
We had the honor of having Researchers from Japan visit Ochoa. Chiharu Obata, Associate Professor at Okayama Prefectual University, Takshi Yamamoto, Professor at Seinan Gakuin University, and Eric Desmarais. They came to observe the Robotics Program in kinder led by Dr. Jung from the Early Childhood Education department from the University of Arizona and our Garden and Ecology program led by Chuck Peralta and Mark Reynolds.
Collaboration is key.
Exploring is fun!
Engaged giving codes to the robot.
Open Enrollment
Thank you for all of you who have registered for next school year. If you have not registered and need support please call the office at 520-225-2400.
5 Health tips for the month of April
Here are five health tips for kids for the month of April:
1. **Prioritize Outdoor Activities**: With the arrival of spring, take advantage of the warmer weather by spending more time outdoors as a family. Plan activities such as nature walks, bike rides, or picnics in the park. Outdoor play not only promotes physical health but also provides opportunities for Vitamin D absorption and reduces stress levels.
2. **Embrace Seasonal Produce**: April brings an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables to the market. Encourage your family to eat a variety of seasonal produce, such as strawberries, spinach, asparagus, and peas. Incorporating these nutrient-rich foods into meals and snacks can boost immunity, support digestion, and provide essential vitamins and minerals.
3. **Stay Hydrated**: As the temperatures rise, it's essential to stay hydrated throughout the day. Encourage your family members to drink plenty of water and limit sugary beverages. Carry reusable water bottles when you're on the go and add slices of fruits like lemon or cucumber for added flavor. Hydration is crucial for maintaining energy levels, supporting metabolism, and promoting overall well-being.
4. **Practice Mindful Eating**: Take the time to enjoy meals together as a family and practice mindful eating habits. Encourage everyone to eat slowly, savor each bite, and pay attention to hunger and fullness cues. Limit distractions such as screens during meal times and engage in meaningful conversations. Mindful eating can help improve digestion, prevent overeating, and foster a positive relationship with food.
5. **Prioritize Sleep**: Quality sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. Establish a consistent bedtime routine for your family and aim for the recommended amount of sleep each night based on age. Create a relaxing environment in the bedroom by minimizing noise and light exposure. Limit screen time before bedtime and encourage calming activities such as reading or gentle stretching. Adequate sleep supports immune function, cognitive performance, and mood regulation.
By incorporating these healthy tips into your family's routine during the month of April, you can promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being for everyone. Remember that small, consistent changes can lead to significant improvements in overall health over time.
Neurons for the Dendrite Depot!
How can your child earn neurons for the Dendrite Depot? Here are some ways:
- Completing homework
- Reading Logs
- Class tests and assignments
- Attendance
- Class or home projects
- If you have any question, contact your child's teacher.
Calendar of Events!
April 1 - AASA Testing begins
April 8 - Panther Pride assemble at 8:30AM
April 8 - PTSA Meeting at 9:00
April 8 - Lunch with your child and Solar Eclipse Experience of a Life Time!
April 26 - Ochoa Fiesta from 4-7PM
April 29 - Junior Achievement Day!
Support Ochoa with you AZ tax donation
Single individuals (or married, filing separately) can receive a credit of up to $200. Married couples filing a joint return can receive a credit of up to $400. We use tax donations to support academics and extracurricular activities. Thank you in advance.
We also have the Ochoa Optimist Club that supports our school with fieldtrips, school events, and classroom supplies. You can make tax donations to the club by writing a check to Ochoa Optimist Club.
Keep you tax donation money at Ochoa and make a difference in our children's education.
How can I access my child's report card, attendance, classroom assignments, etc.
Through Parentview you have access to your child's grades, attendance, class assignments, test results, and more. If you forgot or do not have your password please contact the office for support. 520-225-2400.
ClassDojo
Stay in touch with what is happening at Ochoa and in your child's classroom through ClassDojo.
Character Strong
Our school district has adopted Character Strong Curriculum for our Social Emotional Learning. This month's focus is on Courage. Here are this month's newsletters.