The STAR
August 26, 2020
Hello Families and officially, WELCOME BACK!
We cannot wait to see our Stars tomorrow! There has been a lot of hustle bustle behind the scenes to prepare for the return of our Stars: getting Chromebooks distributed, gathering materials and supplies, and prepping all the things students need to do their best learning. We want to thank each of you who have contributed to this preparation in any way! Our Teacher Stars are ready for our Ruby Stars!
As things are quite different from previous school years, we want to share a few things for good mention in this first edition. We also look forward to greeting students and families again. It remains an honor to and privilege to serve as your principal and vice principal.
Principal Pharr-Matthews and Vice Principal Kim
First Day of School- Coffee with the Principal
Thursday, August 27, 2020, 5-6 pm
Via Zoom- Invite forthcoming. I will be available to answer questions and provide any clarity with the opening of school. An invite will also be shared via Parent Square. Please plan to log into the Zoom session with your name, no nicknames.
Beginning of School Business
Distance Learning- We will begin the year virtually in distance learning. Teachers have worked very hard to prepare for daily Zoom sessions and synchronous/asynchronous instruction. Teachers have also prepared a welcome letter to be shared with you. Please email me if you have not yet received this.
Attendance- Daily attendance is mandatory. Students are expected to log in to a daily Zoom session where attendance will be counted. If you experience any trouble logging in, please email your teacher. If your student will be absent for the day, make sure to notify the attendance line.
Schedules- Our school day begins at 8:30 a.m. daily. Students should be dressed, in a suitable learning environment, and ready to learn. For the first four weeks of school, an Equitable Start schedule has been shared. Following this four-week period, schedules and class assignment may be adjusted. Teachers will share final schedules following the Equitable Start.
Technology Support- If you are in need of a Chromebook or tech support, please contact our Vice Principal, Jin Kim at jkim@alamedaunified.org. You may also reach out to the AUSD technology at https://www.alameda.k12.ca.us/technologyservices.
Office hours and start time- Due to COVID 19, our office is closed. If you need to reach our office manager, Glenda, or our attendance clerk or Sue, please email them at: gmachrus@alamedaunified.org or sjones@alamedaunified.org
Getting a hold of my teacher- All teachers are expected to check email a few times daily. Teachers are also available by message on Parent Square. You may email or message teachers.
Back to School Night- Schedules for BTSN are posted on our website. These grade level assemblies will begin September 3, 2020. Click the button above for more details.
Learning environment at home- Please find a quiet space at home to support student learning. Ideally, this is an area a way from the television and common traffic areas. An environment similar to the school classroom environment is recommended. Students will be expected to log in and use video during Zoom sessions.
Classroom assignments- All enrolled students have been assigned a classroom teacher. Classroom rosters were thoughtfully balanced with student’s best needs in mind. Therefore, there will be no classroom changes due to teacher preference or social bubbles.
Supply distribution- Supplies will be distributed the week of August 31- Sept. 2. Please see important dates below. Please plan to come on your scheduled date.
Upcoming Events
August 27 (8:30 am) First Day of School
August 27 (5-6 pm) Coffee with the Principal, via Zoom
August 31 (9-3 pm) Distribution of curriculum and supplies (TK, Kinder, 1st)
Sept. 1 (9-3 pm) Distribution of curriculum and supplies (4th, 5th)
Sept. 2 (9-3 pm) Distribution of curriculum and supplies (2nd,3rd/Remote Learners)
Sept. 3-11 (TBD) Back to School Night- See BTSN Button aboveRuby Bridges Elementary School- Home of the Stars!
Email: dpharr@alamedaunified.org
Website: https://rubybridges-alamedausd-ca.schoolloop.com/
Location: 351 Jack London Avenue, Alameda, CA, USA
Phone: 510-748-4006
Twitter: @RBStars