The Patriots' Press
March 2020 (MUSIC IN OUR SCHOOLS AND YOUTH ART MONTH)
Dr. Kimberly K. Doucette, Ed.D
Email: kdoucette@cityschools.com
Website: www.cityschools.com/hughmercerelementaryschool/
Location: 2100 Cowan Boulevard, Fredericksburg, VA, USA
Phone: 540-372-1130
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HughMercerES/
Twitter: @kimdouce
PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE
What a fabulous February we had at Hugh Mercer! Last week, Patriots took part in an assembly to honor famous African Americans. Our second grade student leaders did a beautiful job of sharing information and paying respect to those who came before us and shaped out paths.
Our Patriot family has also been very fortunate to be the recipients of the hard work and dedication of our outstanding PTA. They've worked tirelessly to plan and execute a fun-filled, engaging fundraiser to raise money to purchase materials and equipment for our special area classrooms. I'm overwhelmed with all that they've done! They've tirelessly worked nights and weekends, made videos and displays, ordered and distributed T-shirts to every student, brainstormed, created materials, and much more. Our PTA board and volunteers have truly championed our school! Thanks to each who volunteered and donated.
Looking ahead, we have a school holiday on Tuesday, March 3. We also begin the parents/faculty basketball tournament this Wednesday, March 4. Our PTA meeting will be next week, March 11.
Our student pep team and cheerleading squad are ready to cheer, along with our very own HM Patriot mascot. Come out this Wednesday to help them root for our team.
Our School Board meeting will take place tonight, March 2. Tune in for the sharing out of updates on enrollment and expansion.
It's hard to believe Spring Break is just around the corner! I'm so proud of the wonderful progress our students have made in both academics as well as in the 5 C's (collaboration, creative thinking, communication, citizenship, and critical thinking. Each of these components is so important to nurture. Our teachers and staff are sharing opportunities and experiences to shape our kiddos each and every day, to prepare them for life after graduating.
Soon, we will begin planning for next year! Be on the lookout for opportunities for your input and ideas.
Thank you so very much for letting us share our days with your precious children. Thank you for your partnership, as well.
Fondly,
Dr. Kimberly K. Doucette, Ed.D
COMING EVENTS
March 2 – 6
Dr. Seuss Spirit Week
March 2
Cat in the Hat Day (Wear a Hat)
School Board Meeting (7:30 PM) @ WG Center
March 3
Student/Staff Holiday (NO SCHOOL)
March 4
I Can Read w/My Eyes Shut Day (Wear a Shirt You Can Read) or Jersey Day
FCPS HMES vs. JMHS Families/Teachers’ Basketball Tournament (@ JM) - 6:30 PM
March 5
Fox in Socks Day (Wear Crazy Socks)
March 6
Dr. Seuss Day! (Dress Like Your Fave Dr. Seuss Character)
March 9
Bunny Hop (Kindergarten) @ 3:30 PM
March 11
Joint HMES/LUES Parent Advisory Meeting (5:30-6:30 PM) @ HMES
Joint HMES/LUES PTA Meeting (6:30-7:30 PM) @ HMES
March 12
End of Q3 Grading Period
FCPS LUES vs. WGMS Families/Teachers’ Basketball Tournament (@ JM) - 6:30 PM
March 13
Spirit Friday – WEAR GREEN OR DRESS LIKE A LEPRECHAUN
Early Dismissal of Students @ 12:45 PM (followed by staff PD)
March 16 – 20
NO SCHOOL (Spring Break)
March 24 and 25
Class Photo Day (library) – certain classes each day
March 26
FCPS Championship Basketball Tournament (@ JM) - 6:30 PM
March 27
Spirit Friday – SPRING IS COMING! DRESS LIKE A LION OR LAMB
Report Card Distribution
March 30
2nd Graders Tour LUES (Transition Field Trip) @ 9 AM
TITLE 1 - Federal Aid Program
Through Title 1, the feral government designates money to school districts around the country based on the number of students in need in each district. Each district uses its Title 1 money for extra education services for children, such as:
- class size reduction
- additional teachers and paraprofessionals
- parent resources
- instructional materials and supplies
- Tier 2 and Tier 3 support services
The focus of the Title 1 program is to ensure all students meet challenging content and achievement standards. Title 1 also authorizes federal grant programs that provide funds for reading instruction, services to migrant children, services to neglected and delinquent children, comprehensive school reform, and drop-out prevention.
Reading and math support is provided by the Mrs. Tera Addair and Mrs. Jill Kankam (reading; Mrs. Amy Clark (math, Title 1). Administrative support for Title 1 services is provided by assistant principal, Mrs. Kisha T. Frye.