Orion Gazette
Feb 27-Mar 3
Calendar of School Events
February
Feb 27 Principal Campus Advisory 3:30 pm Virtual
Feb 28 Ealy dismissal at 11:45 am
March
Mar 3 8:30-9:00 am Principal Coffee in the Cafeteria
Mar 3 9:15 am Parent Cooperative Advisory Meeting - Live in the library
Mar 9 7:30 pm PTO
Mar 15 4:00 pm School Site Council - Live and virtual
Mar 15 5:30 pm English Language Advisory Council
Mar 17 St. Patrick's Day - Wear Green
Mar 20-Mar 24 Early Release - Parent Teacher Conferences
Mar 31 9 am Mandarin Immersion Advisory Meeting - virtual
A Message from Principal Katherine - Orion - One School - Two Programs
You have heard share me for the past 4 years our school mantra:
"Orion Alternative is home to two unique programs, our Parent Cooperative Program, and the Mandarin Immersion program."
I share this message frequently with our school community, across RCSD and the Redwood City community to ensure all stakeholders understand that we are truly unique at Orion and offer different educational pathways for children and their families in Redwood City.
Each program has unique educational and cultural outcomes but all parents on this campus have the shared goals of ensuring their children's health and safety, preparing them for life as productive adults, and teaching cultural values.
On February 15, Assistant Principal Mrs. Winnie Wong, Parent Engagement Specialist Mrs. Brianna Turner, and I had the opportunity to present our Single Plan for Student Achievement to the Redwood City Trustees in an open public forum. We shared our school-wide successes along with ongoing work and focus to improve academic and social-emotional outcomes for all students at Orion.
Our elected school board officials along with the RCSD leadership reaffirmed our school identity and focus, two programs - one school - one community with one Single Plan for Student Achievement (the SPSA) that guides our Orion school.
Whether a parent chooses the Mandarin Immersion Program or the Parent Cooperative Program at Orion school, they are joining a unique community that celebrates both programs.
It is an honor and a privilege to cultivate this unique community of two programs with our dedicated staff, amazing students, and supportive families.
Multilingual Orion Students Recognized for Reaching for the Stars
Our school and district goal is to ensure that English Learner students reclassify from English Learner to Fluent English proficient within 5 years of consistent schooling in the US. Reclassification is when a child demonstrates language proficiency sufficient to be successful in their academic classes. A high level of English proficiency is necessary to provide access to college and a career.
We were thrilled to recognize and celebrate Orion students that met the reclassification criteria this school year at our Glow Celebration on February 17.
Parent Volunteers Host a Glow Party
Principal Campus Advisory
The purpose of the Principal Campus Advisory is to contribute actionable ideas to support a positive school culture at Orion Alternative. Orion is home to two unique programs.
The advisory committee has three focus areas: shared spaces at Orion, shared traditions at Orion, and year-long programming.
The advisory team is comprised of parents and staff from both programs.
This week team will brainstorm ideas where we can intentionally build student relationships across both programs.
Guests are welcome to listen to the work of the committee.
Monday, Feb 27, 2023, 03:30 PM
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Parent Cooperative Advisory
Join us for the second Parent Cooperative Advisory LIVE in the library and virtual.
https://rcsdk8-net.zoom.us/j/5683805514?pwd=Mi83OW9Cb0VLNml6M1pjOUxoY0JBQT09
Join the co-op program next Friday 9:15-10:30, after the principal’s coffee for our advisory meeting and multicultural prep and planning. We’ll review program goals and spring priorities and begin working on multicultural activities. This will be a great chance for new and returning parents to mingle, get to know each other, and share ideas. We’ll meet in room behind the library. Questions? Reach out to lillimilton@gmail.com
Friday, Mar 3, 2023, 09:15 AM
Orion Library
Starship Corner
Submit your own event or notice info for the gazette: Gazette submissions google form
Spring Auction
Save the date for the Orion School Spring Auction. It is coming back to be a fun event, IN PERSON! Event will take place on April 22 at The Hub. Snacks, drinks and both a silent and live auction to take place. Join Auction committee to get this fun event planned and running smoothly https://www.konstella.com/app/group/639188da9b989b3a44e91a0d/chats
Plant Fundraiser
Flower Power fundraiser- now through May 15th. Purchase bulbs and plants for your garden or for the school! https://www.flowerpowerfundraising.com/index.php/marketplace/seller/profile/shop/orionmandarinimmersion