Principal Thoughts
Hello Park Community Families and Friends,Recently I had the privilege of traveling to Mexico with my wife Lisa and some friends. We had a great time and the weather was fantastic. However, every time I travel I am always happy to return to the United States and more importantly to my home in the Fox Valley.
We have a lot to be thankful for in our area. Safe communities to live in, many employment opportunities, and great schools. Park Community Charter School is a great school with a terrific staff and wonderful students. I am so proud to serve as principal and each day I am energized by the students that walk our halls.
In Mexico we watched a performance of native dancers which portrayed the history of the country. We also saw a parade for a local church celebrating the beginning of the Christmas season. Just like other communities in the world we have many proud community traditions right here in Kaukauna. This week the 28th Annual Electric City Christmas Parade is taking place on December 6th. Park Community students and parents will be walking with me by the Grignon Mansion float. We are using this opportunity to highlight our connection to our community partners. The theme of this year's parade is "Over the River and Through the Woods" Our spin on this will be "Park Community Students Walk Over the River and Through the Woods to Learn with our Community Partners". I hope our participation in the parade becomes an annual event for our school.
During the holiday break please take a moment and remember the good things we have in our community and to celebrate your family and friends.
Happy Holidays!
Seeking Your Input: District Vision Survey
Recently, the District has talked about the District Vision Committee (DVC), a group created to engage our school community in a continuous improvement process and examine the current reality of our District's culture, fiscal sustainability and student achievement, and how they relate to our vision for the District. As we continue through our four steps - Education, Vision, Explore and Action - we'd like you to take 10-15 minutes to complete the District Vision Survey. The survey can be taken online or via a paper copy. You likely have already received the survey invitation via e-mail, and you will be receiving a paper copy in the mail. It's input from all of you, through this survey, that keeps our work moving forward on a path of success. Thank you, in advance, for your understanding, input and willingness to be a part of this process.To take the survey in Spanish simply click on the “Español” link on the top right of the survey’s “Start” page and the entire survey will change over to Spanish. You may also request a Spanish paper copy version by calling 766-6100.
Teacher Feature
Special Education - Mrs. VandeLoo
Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Kaukauna and even went to Park School for Kindergarten through 3rd grade.
Where did you go to High School and/or college?
I went to Kaukauna High School and graduated for UW-Oshkosh.
Total years in Kaukauna Area School District?
This is my eleventh year teaching in the Kaukauna Area School District.
What is your favorite thing about teaching your grade level or working in an elementary school?
I love working at the elementary level because it is hard to walk down the hall without a student giving you a hug or a big smile.
What makes Park Community a special school?
Park Community is a special school because of the sense of community within the school. Kids are making connections that will last forever!
Special Education - Mrs. Opperman
Where are you from? I am from Freedom, WI.
Where did you go to High School and/or college?
I went to Freedom High School and then attended college at the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh. I graduated with a Dual major in Elementary Education and Special Education.
Total years in Kaukauna Area School District? This is my second year in Kaukauna Area School District and my second year teaching.
What is your favorite thing about teaching your grade level or working in an elementary school?
My favorite thing about teaching Special Education at Park Community Charter School is that I am able to teach and work with students in multiple grade levels. I enjoy the uniqueness of each grade level and having that connection with students in a variety of grades.
What makes Park Community a special school?
Park Community is a special school because of the school family environment that is created each and every day. Through Conscious Discipline, the students are able to work in a positive and safe learning environment, while developing into amazing young people.
Special Education - Mrs. Meredith
Where are you from? Fond du Lac.
Where did you go to High School and/or college?
I went to High School at St. Mary’s Springs. I went to UW-Stevens Point for undergrad and grad school.
Total years in Kaukauna Area School District? 23 years
What is your favorite thing about teaching your grade level or working in an elementary school?
I love working with all the different grade levels in the elementary schools.
What makes Park Community a special school?
I think the community based learning partners and conscious discipline program we use at Park Community make it a very special school.
ART - Mrs. Mueller’s Artist Tidbits
Kindergarten learned that texture is how things feel! We created lion heads that included real string and straw so that we could feel their manes!
1st Grade created adorable Dachshunds in sweaters! Since Doxies get cold in this cool weather we designed our dog’s awesome sweaters using patterns.
2nd Grade students reviewed the rainbow and created beautiful tropical parrots. We used our rainbow knowledge, thanks to ROY G BIV to color their feathers in vibrant rainbow patterns.
3rd Grade looked at some amazing stained glass windows and used their new information to design their own window. It could tell a story or it could be nature in theme like the ones we saw. We used watercolor to give them a light translucent feel.
4th Grade has moved onto Russia! We looked at some of the amazing building built in Russia. We discussed how they are different from the building we see here in America. They got a chance to be their own architect and design a building filled with color and pattern
Featured Artist’s of the Month!
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| Karlee Schuh 1st Grade McMullin |
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| Nora Boucher 4th Grade Serwe |
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| Madison Deering 3rd Grade Hinkens |
Congratulations to Karly Meredith!
She won this year’s contest for the Holiday Card design. Watch for her card and others on highway 55 across from the middle school this December!
A message from Mrs. VanderLoop in the “FILLING STATION”
November seemed to blow away like the falling leaves. All of a sudden it isA message from Mrs. VanderLoop in the “FILLING STATION”Kindergarteners accepted responsibility for using the iPads that we have the privilege of having. They signed a contract for respectful, responsible use of the devices. Now they use them in their classroom on a regular schedule.
First Graders continued their research project about squirrels. They learned how to take a picture on the iPad. After taking a picture of a squirrel using the app Screen Chomp, they practiced reading their fact from the many we gathered. Next they opened the app and recorded themselves reading the information. Just in time for Thanksgiving we had so much fun with the book One is a Feast for a Mouse. We had to understand the importance of a characters size. One pea was a feast for a mouse, but for us it would not be enough to fill us up. Students helped me with the repetitive chorus.
Second Graders used the iPads to take a picture in order to complete their research project on owls. However, due the fact that Thanksgiving came SO fast we had to postpone completion of our research in order to enjoy two “Thanksgiving activities.” We enjoyed a “circle story” that actually included an owl with “silent wings.” Students nodded their heads when I read that because our research said owls are silent when they go after their prey. We also used the Dictionary to look up cornucopia. We talked about the job of a Dictionary : pronunciation, definition, spelling, syllables, part of speech, suffixes and sometimes a picture. Then students did a cornucopia hunt in the library and they did it in silence. Books bring us such fun adventure!
Third Graders had practice using the Library Catalog. They had to complete title, author and subject searches. We decided that we need another attempt in order for everyone to experience each kind of search. As students are completed their study of Native Americans, we read a very appropriate legend. After identifying the traits of a legend, I read one but did not provide the title. They had to fill in the blank The Legend of the __________.We learned about bogs and how clever the Paleo Indians were in creating the Legend of the Cranberry. Wisconsin is one of the top five states in the production of cranberries. A book on cranberries revealed how they are harvested and the bogs are created.Fourth Graders completed the study of the Dewey Decimal System. They were given specific call numbers and the search was on. They now also appreciate the effort of the Library assistants who shelve all the nonfiction titles they check out.
Physical Education with Mrs. Wells and Mrs. Stratton
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| Mrs. Wells |
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| Mrs. Sratton |
The 2nd, 3rd, and 4th graders finished up disc golf and volleyball. In volleyball, we learned how to correctly pass and set. Playing volleyball takes a lot of practice because we have to think before we hit the volleyball. If the ball is in front of us and below our shoulders, we can pass the ball; but if the ball is behind us and above our shoulders, we should set it. The 4th grade students were even able to use the volleyball nets and play 3 catch volleyball.
The kindergarten and 1st graders worked on loco-motor movements (walk, run, skip, gallop, hop, jump, and slide). One of our favorite ways to practice loco-motor movements is tag. We played all sorts of tag games: high 5 tag, mirror tag, fire and ice tag- just to name a few.
In December, the 2nd and 3rd graders will start skating. The 4th grade students will be working on teamwork and cooperation. While kindergarten and 1st graders will be learning with the parachute, and will continue to work on loco-motors.
Music With Mrs. Krueger
The kindergarteners continued to work on their singing voice in November. They did a wonderful job learning Proud Of Our Veterans. Some of the other songs that they worked on are: Thank You, The Turkey Ran Away, 5 Fat Turkeys, I Like Thanksgiving, and Thanksgiving Day.
1st grade
The 1st graders worked on the vocabulary of note names. They are doing very well learning their notes. They also worked on are: Proud Of Our Veterans and gave an amazing performance on Veteran’s Day! They also enjoyed a few more songs of the season: I Like Thanksgiving, The Giving Of Thanks, The Whacky Gobbler, and Thanksgiving Day.
2nd grade
The 2nd graders spent the beginning of November preparing for the Veteran’s Day program, learning Proud Of Our Veterans. They gave an amazing performance on Veteran’s Day! Believe it or not, they also took a sneak peak at some of the music for the 2nd grade spring concert. Please mark your calendars! The spring concert will be Thursday, April 6 at 6:30 pm
3rd grade
The 3rd graders sang their hearts out and gave an amazing performance for Veteran’s Day! They also learned a little about Jazz music and singing the blues. They enjoyed learning many songs of the season: Thanksgiving Blues, Mashed Potatoes, Cranberries Forever, and I Want Some Pumpkin Pie!
4th grade
The 4th graders continued working on recorders during the month of November. They have learned the white belt and yellow belt so far. They also worked on Proud Of Our Veterans and sang it at the Veteran’s Day program. They were amazing!
The holiday season is a wonderful time of year; especially for children. However, this time of year also presents a challenge for healthy eating. With all of the holiday parties and activities preparing healthy meals and snacks sometimes just doesn’t happen. One solution help prevent over indulgence on holiday treats is to send non-food items in for your child’s school celebration(s). The following are some non-food treats to share that children love;
Pencils/Pens
Eraser toppers
Friendship bracelets
Trading cards
Stampers
Stickers
Dollar stores party favors
Dollar store coloring/activity books
Story books
Notepads
Pretend tattoos
Key chains
Book marks
Super balls (for the older kids)
Neon colored high-lighters
Folders
These items are a great alternative to the high sugar and high fat treats. Plus children love them.
December Classroom Guidance
During the month of December, I will be visiting all of the K-4 classrooms and talking with students about Celebrating Differences! In each grade level we will discuss the importance of respecting each other’s differences and getting to know people on the inside…not judging by the outside. Each class will have a project or activity that displays the concept of diversity. Kindergarten will work on getting to know themselves and each other as well as read a book about how everyone is different. First grade will share a story that encourages respect for everyone…titled Elmer the Elephant. Second grade will read a book and share a song titled “Don’t Laugh at Me” and third graders will be making “people packages” and learning that we all have different “wrappings” on the outside… it is what is inside that matters. Fourth grade classes will learn about prejudices and stereotypes through a Dr. Seuss Sneetches lesson. As always, feel free to call me at 766-6134 Ext. 3164 with any questions or concerns.
News from the School Nurse
The holiday season is a wonderful time of year; especially for children. However, this time of year also presents a challenge for healthy eating. With all of the holiday parties and activities preparing healthy meals and snacks sometimes just doesn’t happen. One solution help prevent over indulgence on holiday treats is to send non-food items in for your child’s school celebration(s). The following are some non-food treats to share that children love;Pencils/Pens
Eraser toppers
Friendship bracelets
Trading cards
Stampers
Stickers
Dollar stores party favors
Dollar store coloring/activity books
Story books
Notepads
Pretend tattoos
Key chains
Book marks
Super balls (for the older kids)
Neon colored high-lighters
Folders
These items are a great alternative to the high sugar and high fat treats. Plus children love them.
DECEMBER SCHOOL COUNSELING NEWS!! From Mr. Zamost
During the month of December, I will be visiting all of the K-4 classrooms and talking with students about Celebrating Differences! In each grade level we will discuss the importance of respecting each other’s differences and getting to know people on the inside…not judging by the outside. Each class will have a project or activity that displays the concept of diversity. Kindergarten will work on getting to know themselves and each other as well as read a book about how everyone is different. First grade will share a story that encourages respect for everyone…titled Elmer the Elephant. Second grade will read a book and share a song titled “Don’t Laugh at Me” and third graders will be making “people packages” and learning that we all have different “wrappings” on the outside… it is what is inside that matters. Fourth grade classes will learn about prejudices and stereotypes through a Dr. Seuss Sneetches lesson. As always, feel free to call me at 766-6134 Ext. 3164 with any questions or concerns.
K-Kids Update!
On Thursday, December 8th we will be deciding our next service project! This comes as the holidays approach so students will be selecting a project to meet a need in the community surrounding giving and kindness. I want to give a shout out to all the K-Kids for putting on the animal food/supply drive as we have two full boxes of donations! Stay tuned for what K-Kids will be offering next.Bad Weather Coming? Emergency School Closing Information
In the event of a school closing due to weather you will receive a notification through Infinite Campus Messenger. It is extremely important that your contact information in the program be up to date. Please follow the directions on the Park Community website Click Here
Please Dress for the Weather
This is an unpredictable time of year weather-wise. Please be sure to send your child prepared for the worst Mother Nature has to offer. It is very important that the children go outside to play at recess; however, they need to be dressed for the weather. We do want to keep your child healthy. When the snow falls ALL students must have boots, in addition to snow pants if they play in the snow. If you have difficulty providing winter wear, please contact the office as we have donated items to share. It is also recommended that students keep a dry pair of socks and pants in their backpack in case clothing gets wet.
Lost and Found
Are you missing any items of clothing, mittens, hats? Please check out our Lost and found box in the school lobby.
Old Christmas Tree Light Collection
Tis the season for trimming and decorating and getting rid of light strings that do not work any more. Park Community will be collecting used lights in our lobby. They will be recycled and can be dropped off at any time. Thanks!
EARLY CHILD DEVELOPMENT
Parents often wonder if their child’s functioning is within normal expectations for their age. While no two children are alike in their skill development or social functioning, the following guidelines may be helpful:
By one year, most children will do things such as:
Pull to a stand and walk with assistance. Say one or two simple words (ma-ma, da-da, etc.) Pick up small objects with thumb and first two fingers. Drink from a cup when it is held for them. Enjoy playing “peek-a-boo” or “patty cake
By two years, most children will do things such as:
Run reasonably well. Use 2-3 word sentences (more juice, no go bye-bye, etc.) Point to animals or objects in a book. Bring a familiar object from another room when asked. Play near other children, and use toys meaningfully.
By three years, most children will do things such as:
Dress self with minimal help. Speak in short sentences. Nest objects of different sizes and match objects by color. Imitate lines and circles on paper. Begin to play with other children.
By four years, most children will:
Catch many types of questions. State full name and age when asked. Copy a plus sign. Enjoy pretend play with other children.
If you suspect that your child may have delays or other difficulties, you can arrange for a free screening to help determine if developmental testing and special services might be needed. Special school services can begin at the time of a child’s third birthday, and are provided at no cost to the family. County services are available for infants and toddlers with special needs. Residents of the Kaukauna Area School District many contact Lisa Sheppard at 766.6150 or Sarah Newberry at 766.6113 for further information
Upcoming Events
December 7th - Pizza Hut Fundraiser - 11:00 - 8:00 PM (Carry out, Delivery and Dine In)
December 13th - PAC Meeting - CANCELED - No December Meeting
December 21st - KHS Orchestra at Park Community
December 23rd - January 2nd Winter Break No School
