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August 2023
Principal's Corner
My name is Tammy Hershman, and I am the new Principal of Birchwood ABC Elementary. I am honored to be in this position and serve the community that I live in. I have been working in education for many years. I have worked in some capacity in just about every role within the educational system; registrar, lunch room, secretary, 21st Century program, interventionist, assistant principal, and classroom teacher. I am a mother of five amazing kids and four bonus kids! All have grown and left the nest except for three. Our youngest is in 10th grade and our twins are in 11th grade. They keep us busy with their high school activities. I am also a proud grandma of three grandchildren. I believe that learning is a life-long process, and I am learning new things every day. I am excited for the 2023/24 school year. This year my focus will be on; fostering a culture of inclusivity, respect, and collaboration within the school community while continuing to uphold our commitment to excellence in education and to ensure that every student receives the support they need to achieve their goals. I want to make sure that every student feels like they belong here at Birchwood ABC. As a parent, I understand your perspective, and as a professional, I am here to help. If you have any questions, call or stop by the building, or you may email me: hershman_tammy@asdk12.org.
With gratitude,
Tammy Hershman
New Staff Showcase
Janet Collins - Resource Paraprofessional
Emily Coppa - 3rd Grade Teacher
Jen Dittbrender - Preschool Paraprofessional
Denise Ray - Kindergarten Teacher
Rebekah Senn - Health Teacher
Chesnea Wetzel - Kindergarten Paraprofessional
Back to School Information
School will soon be back in session. We are eager to see the students' smiling faces and to hear all about their summer adventures. We also look forward to working collaboratively with our whole school community to make the 2023-2024 school year a positively memorable year.
The ASD Elementary School Handbook can be found at: https://www.asdk12.org/students/handbooks/
The Birchwood ABC Elementary School handbook, ASD Calendar and other guidance on school specific operations, such as, Drop-off and Pick-up procedures, morning line-up, etc., can be accessed through our school website @: https://www.asdk12.org/birchwoodabc
A general class materials list can also be found on or school website. Teachers will provide families with a more specific list for their class.
Enjoy your last week of summer vacation! And we will see our 1st – 5th grade students on Thursday 8/17, 2023 and our PreK and K students on Thursday 8/24, 2023.
Back to School Night
Back to School Night and Class Posting will be Wednesday 8/16 from 5:00-6:00pm. The building will not be open to the public during this event. Class Lists will be posted on the front fence. Teachers will be available outside to meet families. Both the PTA and BAC will be available to answer questions. The PTA will be providing a welcome back treat.
Open House
First Day of School for 1st - 5th grades, Thursday 8/17
· Students will line up with their class on the outside basketball court. Signs with the teacher’s name will be visible for the 1st few days, see diagram below.
· Lineup begins at 8:40AM. Students enter the building at 8:50AM and classes begin at 9:00AM.
· Parents are permitted to walk with their child to class on the first day of school. We do request that parents do not remain in the classroom after morning announcements have concluded.
First Day of School for PreK & K grades, Thursday 8/24
· PreK students will be met at the bus or front doors and escorted to the classroom by their teacher or para each day.
· Kindergarten students will line up with their class on the basketball court. Signs with the teacher’s name will be visible for the 1st week.
· Lineup begins at 8:40AM. Students enter the building at 8:50AM and classes begin at 9:00AM.
· Parents are permitted to walk with their child to class on the first day of school. We do request that parents do not remain in the classroom after the morning announcements have concluded.
Meals at School
Each class will be scheduled for a lunch period that will be eaten in the cafeteria. Lunch options include students bring a lunch from home or eating a lunch offered by ASD. Lunches are available for purchase. ($4.75). Lunches coming from home should include nutritious items. Please do not include pop or candy. Additionally, we will not have a breakfast program at Birchwood ABC for K-5 students.
Apply Online for Free and Reduced-Price Meals
School Pictures
PTA Corner
September Character Trait
Dates to Remember
Aug 17th 1st-5th grade classes start
Aug 24th PreK/Kinder classes start
Aug 31st Open House
Sept 4th Labor Day-No School
Sept 28th Picture Day