One quintessential PHA tradition, that brings with it many new experiences, took place this week when many of our fourth-grade scholars participated in the three-day, two-night field trip to Nature’s Classroom. While away, the students and staff who joined them explored the outdoors, learned more about the natural world, hiked for miles, camped in cabins, and (as was highlighted by many students) ate delicious meals together! Check out the photos below for a little insight into the experience:
The fifth-grade scholars are nearing the actualization of a goal they have been working toward for many months now. Over the next few weeks, they will wrap up their civil-rights leader projects. They have researched their leaders, written scripts illustrating their accomplishments, rehearsed their scenes, and are currently in preparation for filming. This hard work will culminate in their movies being premiered on the big screen at Central Square Theater in Cambridge this June!
Last but not least, our sixth graders are arguably most deeply immersed in the process of future preparation. Every day, they engage in preparation for the upcoming milestone of bridging from elementary to middle school. Whether it be reviewing for the upcoming Math MCAS, analyzing the life lessons found in the book Hidden Figures, or engaging in social-emotional learning around preparing for the responsibilities of middle school, our sixth graders are consistently pushing themselves to become the leaders of tomorrow, and we could not be more proud!
It goes without saying that none of these goals would be achievable without the dedication of our wonderful teachers. So, as we enter the spring milestone of Teacher Appreciation Week, I want to invite you to join me in celebrating and sharing gratitude for the wonderful work of our educators. I'm sending a huge note of thanks to each of them and to all of you for everything you do to keep this PHAmily strong!
Be well,
Amy O’Connell
Upper Elementary Interim Principal
LINKS TO HELPFUL RESOURCES
NEW! Teacher Conference Request Form
Please complete this form if you would like to set up a parent-teacher conference. We have time reserved the afternoon of Wednesday, May 13th specifically for conferences, but will also work to accommodate your schedule.
MCAS Practice
Several families have asked about resources to help students get extra practice and build comfort with the testing format before MCAS testing begins in April (see dates below). This link provides access to both computer and paper-based tests in all subject areas.
Counseling Referral
Change can be challenging! Please complete this form if you believe your child requires extra support or check-ins during this transitional time, and a counseling team member will contact you shortly.
Principal Office Hours Sign-Up
Use this sign-up to add an appointment to my calendar. We can meet via phone, online, or in person. Feel free to ask questions, discuss your ideas for our school, or get to know one another!
DATES TO REMEMBER
Monday, May 7 - Friday, May 11 - Teacher Appreciation Week!
Wednesday, May 9 - 4th Grade Coffee with the Teachers
LINK: http://meet.google.com/mhh-krkt-snp
Tuesday, May 7 & Thursday, May 9 - Science MCAS Testing (5th Grade)
Wednesday, May 15 - 5th Grade Coffee with the Teachers
LINK: https://zoom.us/j/93821988790?pwd=TkRqUTdMb0ZrdmJxWEFldCtMMFVyQT09
Wednesday, May 22 - 6th Grade Coffee with the Teachers
LINK: https://meet.google.com/uir-djxo-auf
Friday, May 31 - Coffee with the Leaders
LINK: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82948995758
Tuesday, May 14 & Thursday, May 16 - Math MCAS Testing (4th-6th Grades)
Friday, May 31 - PHA Dental Clinic at the UE Campus
Thursday, June 13 - 6th Grade Bridging Ceremony