Hello OCRS families,
We have another short, "zig zag" week leading up to the Thanksgiving holiday break. Thanksgiving is a time that many of us think about and reflect on the people and parts of our lives we are grateful for. It's also a time that can be emotional as we remember the important people in our life that are no longer with us. We understand that this can also be the case for our students, even if they themselves may not fully understand all of their "big feelings". If your child may be struggling as the holidays approach, please let us know so that we can help support them at school.
NO SCHOOL Thursday, November 23rd and Thursday, November 24th for Thanksgiving Break
There is NO SCHOOL on Thursday 11/23 and Friday 11/24 for the Thanksgiving Break. We wish a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday to all OCRS families!
PTA "Turkey Trot" Fundraiser
The PTA is sponsoring a "Turkey Trot" for the students as a fundraiser on Monday, 11/20 during the school day. It's a very low-key event where families can "sponsor" a student online with a fixed dollar amount. Because it's during the school day, this is not an event where families are invited to attend, however Mr. Barrette and the PTA board members will take pictures to share out with all families.
Essentially, grade levels will have a short time-slot during the school day to run laps around the school together with a "buddy" grade level. It's NOT a race, it's more like lets see how many kids can participate for their entire time slot and cheer each other on.
Use this link to sponsor an OCRS student for their "trot" on Monday!
https://ocrs-turkey-trot.cheddarup.com
Learning More About the New Eureka2 Math Program
As the district implements our new elementary math curriculum, Eureka2 (Squared), we want to support families and caregivers in learning more about the materials, models, and strategies students will be using.
Please complete this online survey to provide information on the type of support that would be most helpful to you as a parent and family. We will use your feedback to plan how we reach out and work with families about the new math program.
Gift of Giving Smithfield Fundraiser
Please see the linked flyer for information about the "Gift of Giving" fundraiser in partnership with the Smithfield Paper Store.
SSELAC Meeting on Wednesday, November 29th at 6:30 PM
The next Smithfield Special Education Local Advisory Committee meeting is being held on Wednesday, November 29th at 6:30 PM at Pleasant View Elementary School in the Media Center. The guest speaker is Tarzwell and Trubiano Law. Enter Door 4 when you arrive at Pleasant View Elementary School.
Tri-County Head Start Information
Free Early Childhood Education Program for children through 5 years old and Prenatal moms! You can apply for our programs ONLINE at https://www.tricountyri.org/services/early-childhood-education/head-start-early-head-start/, calling 401-519-1979, or emailing Klarson@tricountyri.org. See the linked flyer for additional details.
PTA Information
PTA Snowflake Bazaar
The PTA is hosting their annual Snowflake Bazaar on Saturday, December 2nd from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Old County Road School. We invite and encourage all OCRS students and families to stop by and enjoy the bazaar!
Penguin Patch Holiday Shop
The PTA Penguin Patch Holiday Store is a fun way for students to shop for family members and experience the spirit of giving while learning to earn, budget and save! This event will be going on December 11th through 15th and will take place during the school day. If anyone would like to volunteer, please reach out to JessRDHNYC@gmail.com. Any volunteer will have needed to complete Mr. Barrette's Volunteer Training and have an up to date BCI on file.
Upcoming Dates and Events
View and subscribe to the OCRS Public Events Calendar at https://oldcounty.smithfield-ps.org/o/old-county-road-elementary/page/monthly-calendar. Click on the "Add to Google Calendar" button to subscribe to the calendar using your own calendar app.
PTA Turkey Trot on Monday, November 20th
NO SCHOOL, Thanksgiving Break, Thursday November 23rd and Friday November 24th
SSELAC Meeting, Wednesday November 29th at 6:30 PM at Pleasant View Elementary School
PTA Snowflake Bazaar, Saturday December 2nd from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Picture Retakes, Wednesday December 6th
PTA General Meeting, Thursday December 7th at 6:00 PM
NO SCHOOL, Parent-Teacher Conferences, Wednesday December 13th
Kindergarten Gingerbread Houses, Friday December 15th at 1:30 PM
NO SCHOOL, Holiday Break, Monday December 25th through Monday January 1st
Thank you,
Mr. Barrette