Vista Views
August 21, 2019
Principal's Message
On Friday, it was wonderful to see everyone come together for our inaugural Alta Vista Family Picnic. Despite the hot weather, the field was filled with families and laughter. Thank you all for making this such as success.
Tonight, you'll want to join us for Back to School Night. It's a chance for you to hear more about what your child will be learning in the classroom, find out about volunteer opportunities, and learn about special events that will be happening throughout the year. New this year, the Home & School Club is opening the cafeteria at 5:30 for light refreshments and to share more about how you can be involved at school. It's an important night and we look forward to seeing you there.
Looking for dinner table conversation starter? Ask your child about today's school dance.
BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT SCHEDULE
5:30-6:00
(Cafeteria)
Join the AVHSC for light refreshments in the cafeteria to kick off the Back to School Night festivities! Visit with friends, meet new Alta Vista community members, learn about our amazing Enrichment Programs and how you can get involved at the school.
6:00-6:45
(Classrooms)
Classroom presentations in first through third grades
6:45-7:15
(Cafeteria)
Principal's Welcome
Home & School Club General Meeting
7:15-8:00
(Classrooms)
Classroom presentations in fourth and fifth grades
LUNCH SCHEDULE - THIRD/FOURTH/FIFTH GRADES
- In the past, when there was a disagreement over a game or someone's feelings were hurt, students would typically come to office for support at the end of lunch. Unfortunately, this resulted in lost time in the classroom as we worked to resolve the issues. Switching recess and eating times gives us the opportunity to sort out problems without impacting instruction.
- The change also allows students time to relax and become more focused before heading back into the classroom. We are already seeing increased engagement and a positive impact on learning.
- Last year, there were multiple concerns from parents about intermediate students not eating their lunches in order to get out to play as quickly as possible. Since changing times, we are seeing more students eating the delicious lunches you've prepared for them. Additionally, our primary students have a few extra minutes to eat before the older students arrive for lunch. This has been a benefit for those handful of students who need additional time.
We started out the year with students sitting at assigned tables. This allows us to set up routines and expectations that are important throughout the year. While first and second graders will continue sitting at their "teacher's table", today our intermediate students were thrilled to be able to sit at any of their grade level tables. They rose to the challenge - continuing to clean up the lunch area and be respectful to adults and peers. Seeing that they have quickly adapted to the new routines and expectations, intermediate students will continue to have the option to select their own table. Because our primary students benefit from the structure of classroom table assignments, first and second graders will continue to sit at their "teacher's table".
Parking Concerns
If you would like to escort your child to the classroom or meet them after school, please consider parking a few blocks away and walking onto campus. Not only is it a healthy choice, but it is also a safe choice and a kind choice.
Thank you for helping Alta Vista be a good neighbor in our community.
BACK TO SCHOOL MOMENTS @ ALTA VISTA
Coming Events - Save the Date
8/21 - Back to School Night (Details Above)
8/30 - No School (Professional Development Day)
9/2 - No School (Labor Day)
9/6 - Picture Day
9/6 - Home & School Club Movie Night
Alta Vista Elementary School
Email: baileyc@unionsd.org
Website: altavista.unionsd.org
Location: 200 Blossom Valley Drive, LG
Phone: 408.356.6146
Twitter: @TeamAltaVista