HLA school leadership regularly send out "e-newsletters" to parents and other members of the HLA community. Posted here are archived copies of e-newsletters from the 2009-2010 school year. If you would like to subscribe to the e-newsletter, please email Michelle Galeotti with the subject line "Add me to the HLA e-newsletter listserv!"
Update to parents June 21, 2010
Update to parents June 9, 2010
Update to parents June 8, 2010
Update to parents June 7, 2010
Update to parents June 4, 2010
Update to parents May 28, 2010
Update to parents May 14, 2010
Update to parents May 4, 2010
Update to parents April 19, 2010
Update to parents April 15, 2010
Update to parents March 26, 2010
Update to parents March 11, 2010
Update to parents March 4, 2010
"Welcome back to all parents and students!" February 22, 2010
School closing announcement February 9, 2010
Update on school fundraiser February 8, 2010
Update to parents January 28, 2010
Update to parents September 30, 2009
"Congratulations on a successful first day!"August 24, 2009.
Greetings!
We are excited to launch our parent portal on the HLA website. You and your loved ones will have the opportunity to view photographs of your child's school activities and special events at HLA. When you log on, please go to the Library section of the portal. To view photos by class click on OPEN ALL FOLDERS. You can find a drop-down arrow next to each class name. When you click on this arrow you should select THUMBNAIL to view the photos easily. It is hoped that during the month of June and over the summer you can “Log On” to the joyful memories your child had during our successful school year.
In addition, please find attached end of year letters from Sara Berman, HLA Board Chair and Maureen Campbell, Principal.
Sara Berman's end of the year letter
Ms. Campbell's end of the year letter to parents
Mr. Campbell's end of the year letter to students
I would like to wish you and your loved ones a happy, joyful, safe, and healthy summer! I look forward to seeing you on the first day of school, August 26, 2010.
Truly,
Maureen Campbell
Principal
Dear HLA Parents,
Beginning today and over the course of this week, you will be receiving an e-mail invitation to join HLA's Website Portal.
The email will be coming from "noreply@hlacharterschool.org <mailto:noreply@hlacharterschool.org>"
The subject line reads "Invitation to join project 'HLA Parents Portal' ....."
The Website Portal gives parents a view into their child's classroom, where you can view different activities in the form of pictures and news bulletins as well as items posted by the various classroom teachers.
Please check your spam/junk mail folders if you do not see the invitation, as it may divert into one of these folders.
INSTRUCTIONS:
Once you receive the e-mail and open it, there will be two links. Click on the bottom link to set your password to the portal and then save it. Once those steps are completed, you will be directed into the portal.
If you don't see the password reset link on the bottom of your invitation or you have questions regarding how to log into the portal, feel free to contact Maria Dopwell Hall via email hla.po.membershipcommittee@gmail.com <mailto:hla.po.membershipcommittee@gmail.com> or via telephone 347-729-2572.
Truly,
Maureen Campbell
Principal
Greetings! This is the last email blast for the 2009-2010 school year. We have had a successful journey this school year! Our partnership has been significant in the support of our children as learners. We are excited to launch our parent portal on the HLA website. You and your loved ones will have the opportunity to view photographs of your child's school activities and special events at HLA. It is hoped that during the month of June and over the summer you can “Log On” to the joyful memories your child had during our successful school year.
IMPORTANT DATES FOR PARENTS:
1. Monday, June 14th - We had an interactive day with the Pepper Steppers Double Dutch performers and an exciting basketball performance that our children enjoyed.
2. Monday, June 21st - Parent/Teacher Conferences 12:00 Dismissal - P/T Conferences will be held by appointment only. There will be half-day dismissal at 12:00 PM, on Monday, June 21, 2010. This is the last P/T Conference session where you will receive your child's final report card. This is an opportunity for parents and teachers to review the progress reports and look at the student work portfolios. You will receive your child's class placement for the 2010-2011 school year. There will be bus service so please adjust your pick-up schedule accordingly. Parents picking up students from school should also note the 12:00 Dismissal.
3. Monday, June 21st - Celebration Certificates - Parents of students in Kindergarten and in Grade 1 will receive a certificate welcoming their child to First Grade or Second Grade for the 2010-2011 school year! These certificates will be presented to parents at the Parent/Teacher conferences. Congratulations on the successful school year!
4.Tuesday, June 22nd - Kindergarten Stepping Up Exercises- Joy! Happiness! Joy! If your child has completed their Kindergarten year, your child will participate in a ceremony and will be “stepping up” to the First grade. The successes of your child are valued and on this special occasion, we will celebrate with you. Due to the capacity limits in our multipurpose room we ask that you limit your family members to 4 (four). Refreshments will be served. The schedule for the Kindergarten Stepping Up exercises is as follows:
Stepping Up Red Room: 8:30-9:00 a.m.
Stepping Up Blue Room: 9:30-10:00 a.m.
Stepping Up Green Room: 10:30-11:00 a.m.
5. Wednesday, June 23rd - Last Day of School for Students
IMPORTANT REMINDERS:
1.PARENT PORTAL ***PARENT PORTAL***PARENT PORTAL***PARENT PORTAL***PARENT PORTAL
Beginning today and over the course of this week, you will be receiving an e-mail invitation to join HLA's Website Portal. The email will be coming from "noreply@hlacharterschool.org <mailto:noreply@hlacharterschool.org>"
The subject line reads "Invitation to join project 'HLA Parents Portal' ....."
The Website Portal gives parents a view into their child's classroom, where you can view different activities in the form of pictures and news bulletins as well as items posted by the various classroom teachers.
Please check your spam/junk mail folders if you do not see the invitation, as it may divert into one of these folders.
INSTRUCTIONS:
Once you receive the e-mail and open it, there will be two links. Click on the bottom link to set your password to the portal and then save it. Once those steps are completed, you will be directed into the portal.
If you don't see the password reset link on the bottom of your invitation or you have questions regarding how to log into the portal, feel free to contact Michelle Galeotti via email at mgaleotti@hlacharterschool.org <mailto:mgaleotti@hlacharterschool.org> or via telephone 718-377-7200.
I would like to wish you and your loved ones a happy, joyful, safe, and healthy summer! I look forward to seeing you on the first day of school, August 26, 2010.
Truly,
Maureen Campbell, Principal
IMPORTANT DATES FOR PARENTS:
1.Tuesday, June 7th - Parent Organization Meeting - Tonight is the final Parent Organization meeting for the 2009-2010 school year. The meeting will be held at HLA from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. All are welcome!
2. Thursday, June 10th - School Open - HLA will be open for regular school hours.
3. Tuesday, June 15th- New Parent Orientation- We will host an orientation session for the parents of our newly admitted students. This session will be held from 6:30-8:00 p.m. This will be an opportunity for parents to meet with Sara Berman, the HLA Board Chair and the Parent Organization representatives. Moreover, parents will hear more about the HLA instructional program from the teaching staff and administration. We are so thrilled to host this event. Parents of currently enrolled students are welcomed as this is an opportunity to embrace our new family. Please save the date! Refreshments will be served.
4. Monday, June 21st - Parent/Teacher Conferences 12:00 Dismissal - P/T Conferences will be held by appointment only. There will be half-day dismissal at 12:00 PM, on Monday, June 21, 2010. This is the last P/T Conference session where you will receive your child's final report card. This is an opportunity for parents and teachers to review the progress reports and look at the student work portfolios. You will receive your child's class placement for the 2010-2011 school year. There will be bus service so please adjust your pick-up schedule accordingly. Parents picking up students from school should also note the 12:00 Dismissal.
5. Monday, June 21st - Celebration Certificates - Parents of students in Kindergarten and in Grade 1 will receive a certificate welcoming their child to First Grade or Second Grade for the 2010-2011 school year! These certificates will be presented to parents at the Parent/Teacher conferences. Congratulations on the successful school year!
6.Tuesday, June 22nd - Kindergarten Stepping Up Exercises- Joy! Happiness! Joy! If your child has completed their Kindergarten year, your child will participate in a ceremony and will be “stepping up” to the First grade. The successes of your child are valued and on this special occasion, we will celebrate with you. Due to the capacity limits in our multipurpose room we ask that you limit your family members to 4 (four).
Refreshments will be served. The schedule for the Kindergarten Stepping Up exercises is as follows:
Stepping Up Red Room: 8:30-9:00 a.m.
Stepping Up Blue Room: 9:30-10:00 a.m.
Stepping Up Green Room: 10:30-11:00 a.m.
UPCOMING EVENTS FOR STUDENTS:
1.Tuesday, June 15th -Magic Show 'Reading Adventure'- McEntee returns to help support our push for summer literacy. Students will see magic support reading and why it is important to read during the summer.
2.Thursday, June 17th -HWJCI Culminating Activity - The final activity in social studies allows our children to take part in the replication of an Israeli city. Students will “fly” to Israel and visit the Post Office, the Bank, the Shuk and a coffee house before “flying” home.
3.Wednesday, June 23rd - Last Day of School for Students
IMPORTANT REMINDERS:
1.Uniform Dress Code - HLA has a dress code that encourages a sense of community, respect and a focus on learning. No jeans are permitted. Our mission is to have a standard of excellence as a vanguard school. Please be reminded that we have daily visitors and it is important that our staff and students maintain our dress code daily.
2.PARENT PORTAL ***PARENT PORTAL***PARENT PORTAL***PARENT PORTAL***PARENT PORTAL
We are excited to launch our parent portal on the HLA website. You and your loved ones will have the opportunity to view photographs of your child's school activities and special events at HLA. It is hoped that during the month of June and over the summer you can “Log On” to the joyful memories your child had during our successful school year.
Beginning today and over the course of this week, you will be receiving an e-mail invitation to join HLA's Website Portal. The email will be coming from "noreply@hlacharterschool.org <mailto:noreply@hlacharterschool.org>"
The subject line reads "Invitation to join project 'HLA Parents Portal' ....."
The Website Portal gives parents a view into their child's classroom, where you can view different activities in the form of pictures and news bulletins as well as items posted by the various classroom teachers.
Please check your spam/junk mail folders if you do not see the invitation, as it may divert into one of these folders.
INSTRUCTIONS:
Once you receive the e-mail and open it, there will be two links. Click on the bottom link to set your password to the portal and then save it. Once those steps are completed, you will be directed into the portal.
If you don't see the password reset link on the bottom of your invitation or you have questions regarding how to log into the portal, feel free to contact Michelle Galeotti via email at mgaleotti@hlacharterschool.org <mailto:mgaleotti@hlacharterschool.org> or via telephone 718-377-7200.
3.Birthday Celebrations - We delight in celebrating your child's birthday at school with his or her friends and teachers! Should you choose for your child to celebrate his or her birthday at school, please bring any celebration snacks to the main office labeled with your child's name and class on the day of the celebration. Please note that HLA does not permit candy at the school and, due to the frequency of persons with allergies to nuts; we do not allow any snacks with nuts or peanut butter.
Truly,
Maureen Campbell, Principal
Dear Parents,
Please come join us for an "End of Year Celebration"!
The Parent Organization is sponsoring a fun day in celebration of this year's accomplishments! The event will be held Sunday at HLA from 2-5 p.m. There will be activities such as face painting, balloon art, bouncers, a magic show, storytelling and much more!!! Come one! Come all!
If you have any questions please feel free to contact the main office at 718-377-7200.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Truly,
Maureen Campbell, Principal
Greetings!
Parents are partners with the school in the education of your child. In response to parent requests, we have developed a summary of the school curriculum. This curriculum guide is attached and provided to you as a resource of information about the school curriculum. As a parent, you may ask, "what does my child need to know as an HLA first Grader? Or, as an HLA parent, a friend of yours may ask you "what is happening in HLA?" It is hoped that this guide will facilitate these discussions.
Let's continue to strengthen our home-school partnership and encourage your child to thrive as a learner in our HLA learning environment.
Learn about HLA's unique curriculum by downloading the 2009-2010 HLA Curriculum Guide now!
Enjoy your holiday weekend!
Truly,
Maureen Cambell
Greetings! It is hoped that this Spring season is full of sunshine and smiles for you and your loved ones! I would like to share a few important dates and updates with you at this time.
IMPORTANT DATES FOR MAY AND JUNE:
Truly,
Maureen Campbell
Principal
Greetings! It is hoped that this Spring season is full of sunshine and smiles for you and your loved ones! I would like to share a few important dates and updates with you at this time.
IMPORTANT DATES FOR MAY AND JUNE:
1. May 6th Peter and the Wolf- An enchanting presentation of a classic tale, “Peter and the Wolf”, will be performed for our children by the Pushcart Players. Anticipated time 10:00 a.m.
2. May 6th Parent Session- Vardit Ringvald will facilitate a session for our parents to discuss the Hebrew Proficiency Approach that we have been engaged in this school year. The session is planned for May 6th, from 6-8 p.m.in the multi-purpose room. Snacks will be served. All are welcome!
3. Week of May 3rd and ongoing - “Race to the Top”. Please complete the post cards and return to your child’s teacher to help New York State win $700 million for our schools.
4. May 11th- Parent Organization- General Membership meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. Jeff Maclin from the NYC Charter Center will be a guest speaker. All are welcome!
5. May 23rd- we are applying for a spectator spot at the Israeli Independence Parade in New York City.
6. May 26th - “Chat with Sara” - An opportunity for parents to chat with Sara Berman, Board Chair, at 6:30 p.m. All are welcome to meet with Sara and enjoy refreshments.
7. Author Visit May 27th- Neil Waldman, author of the children’s book The Starry Night will visit HLA. He will read his book to our children and discuss his journey as an author in Hebrew.
8. June 3rd - Sports Day - We will have an outdoor day at Baisley Pond Park. This will be a fun-filled day for parents, students and staff. Save the date!
9. Sunday, June 6th – “End of Year Celebration”- The Parent Organization is sponsoring a fun day in celebration of this year’s accomplishments! The event will be held Sunday at HLA from 2-5 p.m.
UPDATES
1. NYC Parent Survey Due April 23rd- The NYC Parent Survey was distributed. This survey was an opportunity for you to provide feedback on the learning environment here at HLA. Thank you for completing the survey. Your input is valued and your cooperation in this matter is appreciated.
2. HLA Family Survey- This survey was designed to learn more about the opinions of families. We distributed and collected the survey during the April Parent/Teacher conferences. Thank you for your input! Your cooperation in this matter is appreciated!
3. Free! Vision and Hearing Screening was conducted on April 27th and 28th – This was coordinated between the Department of Health and HLA. If you have any questions please call Nurse Watson at 718-377-7200. However, please note the Department of Health will contact you if there is any need to have any follow-up examinations.
4. Sports Day Held on May 3rd- Due to rainy weather we held the event indoors and enjoyed a fun filled day of structured games, meal time and relationship building. Thank you parent volunteers for being with us.
5. Parent Contact Information/Emergency Cards- If you move, want to change the contact persons or change any of your telephone contact information please let the Main Office IMMEDIATELY. It is important that we are able to reach you in the event of an emergency. All updates to the Emergency Contact Card should be sent in writing to Michelle Galeotti in the Main Office.
6. Spring Footwear- In the best interest of safety it is requested that children do not wear flip flops or open toe sandals. We often go on walking trips and use the staircases daily. To minimize any concern of students facing potential injury while walking or climbing stairs, it is requested that the footwear they wear be secure on their feet. We appreciate your cooperation in this matter.
Truly,
Maureen Campbell, Principal
Greetings! It is hoped that this spring season is full of sunshine and smiles for you and your loved ones! I would like to share a few important "budding" dates and updates with you at this time.
IMPORTANT DATES
CURRCIULUM UPDATES
LEARNING ENVIRONMENT UPDATES
Truly, Maureen Campbell, Principal
Shalom! Following are reminders of upcoming events at the Hebrew Language Academy Charter School:
Item #1 - Parent/Teacher Conferences are April 21, 2010. All students will be dismissed at 12 noon. Please fill out a time preference sheet for your appointment and return it to your child’s teacher. You will be notified with an appointment confirmation.
Item #2 - The Israeli Independence Day Parade is April 20, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. All parents are welcome to meet in the HLA schoolyard. Parents can wear blue and white in support of our parade!
Your participation in student success is valued and appreciated!
Sincerely,
Maureen Campbell, Principal
Greetings! It is hoped that this Spring season is full of sunshine and smiles for you and your loved ones! I would like to share a few important dates and updates with you at this time.
IMPORTANT DATES:
1. Spring Recess March 29th-April 6th - The next school closing is from March 29th - April 6th. Regular sessions will resume on Wednesday, April 7th.
2. HLA Parent Organization General Membership Meeting on April 13th - The next General Membership meeting of the HLA Parent Organization will be held on April 13th at 6:30 p.m. All are welcome! Please attend, if you can.
3. HLA Board Meeting on April 14th - The next HLA Board meeting will be held on April 14, 2010 at 6:30 p.m. in the HLA auditorium. Please attend, if you can.
4. Parent Workshop on April 14th - A survey was distributed to parents and based on the responses, we have scheduled a series of morning and afternoon workshops on topics of high interest. Details will be sent home about the workshops scheduled for April 14th, May 18th and June 9th.
5. HLA Lottery for the School Year 2010-2011 on April 15th - The student application deadline is April 1st and the lottery will be held on April 15th. For the school year 2010-2011 there are 75 available seats in kindergarten and a limited number of seats in grade 1 and grade 2. We recognize and appreciate your support in the student recruitment efforts.
6. Israeli Independence Celebration on April 19th- HLA will engage students, parents, staff and community in classroom activities and a school parade to celebrate Israeli Independence Day. This is an opportunity for the HLA family to expand the children’s learning about the history of Israel beyond the classroom. Further details will be provided prior to this special day.
7. Parent -Teacher Conferences on April 21st - We will coordinate the conferences by appointment only. We will have conferences in the afternoon. This is an opportunity for parents and teachers to review the progress reports and look at the student work portfolios. We look forward to parent-teacher conferences and the opportunity to continue our partnership in the education of our children.
8. NYC Parent Survey Due April 23rd- The NYC Parent Survey was distributed in a green envelope. This survey is an opportunity for you to provide feedback on the learning environment here at HLA. If you have lost the paper survey in the green envelope or are having difficulties, please call the Survey Hotline at (800) 690-8603. If you would like to take the survey online please log on to http://schools.nyc.gov/surveys. If you have completed the survey, thank you! If you still need time to complete the survey, please be reminded that the survey should be completed by April 23rd. Once again, your input is valued and your cooperation in this matter is appreciated.
9. Free! Vision and Hearing Screening on April 27th and 28th - We have scheduled free vision and hearing screening for HLA students with the NYC Department of Health. The scheduled dates will be vision and hearing screening are April 27th and April 28th.
10. Sports Day on May 3rd- Sports Day will be held on Monday, May 3, 2010 at Prospect Park. This will be a day of HLA family fun! Students, parents and staff will have the opportunity to engage in structured games, meal time and relationship building from 9.30am – 1.00pm. Save the Date.
UPDATES
1. Staff Changes- Director of Instruction. HLA is pleased to welcome Lisa DiGaudio and Natalie Zadok to the HLA family. We will continue to work together and nurture a learning environment for our children.
2. Parent Contact Information/Emergency Cards- If you move, want to change the contact persons or change any of your telephone contact information please tell the Main Office IMMEDIATELY. It is important that we are able to reach you in the event of an emergency. All updates to the Emergency Contact Card should be sent in writing to Michelle Galeotti in the Main Office.
3. Parent Organization By-Laws- The Parent Organization by-laws are as a resource for you. This is sent as an email attachment only. Please contact the parent organization if you have any questions.
4. Parent Contact Information- The Parent Organization Parent Contact List is provided to you as a resource. This is sent as an email attachment only.Please contact the Parent Organization if you have any questions.
5. Spring Footwear- In the best interest of safety it is requested that children do not wear flip flops or open toe sandals. We often go on walking trips and use the staircases daily. To minimize any concern of students facing potential injury while walking or climbing stairs, it is requested that the footwear they wear be secure on their feet. We appreciate your cooperation in this matter.
We wish you a healthy, safe and loving Spring recess with your family and friends!
Truly,
Maureen Campbell, Principal
Dear Parents,
1. Spring Celebration. Please join us on Friday, March 26th from 1:00-2:00 p.m. for our first annual Spring Celebration. This celebration will be an opportunity for you to socialize with your child, his/her classmates and the HLA parents in our learning environment. During this time our children will share stories/songs and work with you on a project. Please join us on Friday, March 26th at 1:00 p.m. Feel free to bring a healthy snack to share! We look forward to seeing you!
2. 2010 NYC Department of Education Learning Environment Survey. The Survey has been sent home on Thursday, 3/11/10 in a bright green envelope. This Survey gives all parents and teachers in NYC Public Schools the opportunity to give feedback about the learning environment of their schools. The Survey helps school leaders understand what key members of our school community have to say about the learning environment at HLA. The Surveys are targeted for arrival during the week of March 8th. You have the option to complete a hard copy of this Survey, or complete a Survey online. The deadline for completing the survey is April 23rd. This year's slogan is "Your School, Your Voice!" We encourage you to participate in the NYC Survey effort next month.
3. New Hires. Our Hebrew Studies Teacher in the Blue Room has joined the HLA Family. Welcome, Natalie Zadok, to the HLA family! Justin Johnson is a school aide in the Main Office and Food Services. Welcome, Justin, to the HLA Family! Lisa DiGaudio, will join the HLA Family on March 15th as the Director of Instruction. We are excited about enriching our professional team with the addition of a newly-created position. This role will enhance the coordination of our consultants; our instructional program; and the delivery of instruction in the classroom, with the goal of improving student achievement. Welcome, Lisa DiGaudio to the HLA family!
4. Hebrew Names Project - Reminder. We have been reaching out to Parents who have not yet returned this form, to ensure that all of our students are afforded a chance to participate in this important project. Thanks to all those who have already responded!
5. Projected Register Form - Reminder. This form is needed to project the student register and project the availability of seats for the 2010-2011 school year at HLA. We have been reaching out to Parents who have not yet returned this form and are missing only ten (10) forms to date. Thanks to all those who have already responded!
6. Automated Dialing System Implemented - Reminder. The "One Call Now" automated dialing system is one of the many ways we will communicate with you. This system allows us to reach the entire parent body (as well as staff members) with one pre-recorded call. HLA's entire school roster can be contacted within five minutes! If you find that there are any issues with receiving the calls, please notify the Main Office and changes can be made to your contact information for this purpose.
7. Student Recruiting - Reminder. Our student recruiting process for the next academic year is well under way. Realizing that word-of-mouth is the best recommendation, please continue to spread the word about the success and growth of our children at HLA. Encourage friends, relatives and neighbors to visit the HLA website and complete an application if they have children who are of age to attend our school. Important dates to remember are: April 1 (deadline to receive applications); and April 15 (lottery site TBD). There are 75 seats available for Kindergarten and a limited number of seats for first and second grade as well. A hard copy of our brochure will be distributed to all current HLA students' families. You are encouraged to share with friends, neighbors or co-workers. All are welcome!!
8. School Calendar. Many parents are inquiring about 1/2 days based on the NYCDOE calendar. HLA has a full day of school each day the week of March 15th. As a reminder, the next recess for HLA students will be from Monday, March 29th through Tuesday, April 6th. Classes will resume on Wednesday, April 7th.
9. School Trips. Several trips are planned for the month of March. The Brooklyn Museum will be visited by our Grade K and Grade 1 classes on March 17th, 24th and 25th (two classes per day). The Jewish Children's Museum will be visited by Grade 1 on March 22nd. Our children and staff participate in walking trips on a regular basis to the local park and the local community. We are excited about these opportunities for our children.
10. School Yard. The school yard will be completed in the Spring and provide a space for activities such as morning lineup, afternoon dismissal, story time, free play, physical education classes and school events.
11. Bus Safety. We encourage you to speak with your child about the importance of safety on the school bus. Please speak to your child about keeping on his/her seat belt at all times. It has been brought to our attention that some students are using inappropriate language on the bus. Please speak with your child about appropriate language to use in public. In this way, we can encourage our children to follow safety rules of conduct on the bus as partners. Your cooperation in this matter is appreciated.
Thanks to all of you for your continued dedication to the success of our children. Please be reminded to complete the NYCDOE Parent Survey! Please be reminded about our Spring Celebration on Friday, March 26th, from 1:00-2:00 p.m.!
Sincerely,
Maureen Campbell, Principal
Dear Parent:
1. Automated Dialing System Implemented. In response to concerns raised by Parents with regard to the timeliness of mass phone calls in connection with events like school closings or bus issues, HLA is happy to announce that we have engaged with a company called "One Call Now." This company provides services for many schools in the New York area and allows us to reach the entire parent body (as well as staff members) with one pre-recorded call. HLA's entire school roster can be contacted within five minutes! Our first use of this system was in connection with the snow day closing last week, and went very well. If you find that there are any issues with receiving the calls, please notify the Main Office and changes can be made to your contact information for this purpose.
2. New Hire - Hebrew Studies Teacher in the Blue Room. Natalie Zadok will be starting as the Hebrew Studies Teacher in the Blue Room, on Monday, March 8th. Welcome to the HLA family!
3. Hebrew Names Project - Reminder. Please remember to complete the "Hebrew Names Project" Survey Form and return to your child's teacher as soon as possible. We have been reaching out to Parents who have not yet returned this form, to ensure that all of our students are afforded a chance to participate in this important Project. Thanks to all those who have already responded!
4. Projected Register Form - Reminder. This form was distributed to all students via backpack. Please ensure that the form is completed and returned to your child's teacher as soon as possible. This form is needed to project the student register and project the availability of seats for the 2010-2011 school year at HLA.
5. 2010 NYC Department of Education Learning Environment Survey - Reminder. This Survey gives all parents, teachers and students in NYC Public Schools the opportunity to give feedback about the learning environment of their schools. We will distribute a hard copy of the Survey to you, our parents, as well as our teachers. The Survey helps school leaders understand what key members of our school community have to say about the learning environment at HLA. The Surveys are targeted for arrival during the week of March 8th. You have the option to complete a hard copy of this Survey, or complete a Survey online. The deadline for completing the survey is April 23rd. This year's slogan is "Your School, Your Voice!" We encourage you to participate in the NYC Survey effort next month.
6. Addition of Director of Instruction Role - Reminder. HLA will be enriching our professional team with the addition of a newly-created position, the Director of Instruction. This role will enhance the coordination of our consultants; our instructional program; and the delivery of instruction in the classroom, with the goal of improving student achievement. We are excited about the development of our school as a professional family!
7. Upcoming Parent Organization General Membership Meeting - Reminder. The next General Membership meeting of the Parent Organization is scheduled for Tuesday, March 9th at 6.30pm. Please be sure to attend if you can.
8. Student Recruiting - Reminder. Our student recruiting process for the next academic year is well under way. Realizing that word-of-mouth is the best recommendation, please continue to spread the word about the success and growth of our children at HLA. Encourage friends, relatives and neighbors to visit the HLA website and complete an application if they have children who are of age to attend our school. Important dates to remember are: April 1 (deadline to receive applications); and April 15 (lottery at HLA). There are 75 seats available for Kindergarten and a limited number of seats for first and second grade as well. A hard copy of our brochure will be distributed to all current HLA students' families. You are encouraged to share with friends, neighbors or co-workers. All are welcome!!
9. School Calendar. As a reminder, the next recess for HLA students will be from Monday, March 29th through Tuesday, April 6th. Classes will resume on Wednesday, April 7th.
10. Bus Safety. We encourage you to speak with your child about the importance of safety on the school bus. Please speak to your child about keeping on his/her seat belt at all times. It has been brought to our attention that some students are using inappropriate language on the bus. Please speak with your child about appropriate language to use in public. In this way, we can encourage our children to follow safety rules of conduct on the bus as partners. Your cooperation in this matter is appreciated.
Thanks to all of you for your continued dedication to the success of our children.
Sincerely,
Maureen Campbell
Principal
Welcome back to all parents and students!!
NEW ITEMS OF NOTE:
1. 2010 NYC Department of Education Learning Environment Survey. This Survey gives all parents, teachers and students in NYC Public Schools the opportunity to give feedback about the learning environment of their schools. We will distribute a hard copy of the Survey to you, our parents, as well as our teachers. The Survey helps school leaders understand what key members of our school community have to say about the learning environment at HLA. The Surveys are targeted for arrival during the week of March 8th. You have the option to complete a hard copy of this Survey, or complete a Survey online. The deadline for completing the survey is April 23rd. This year's slogan is "Your School, Your Voice!" We encourage you to participate in the NYC Survey effort next month.
2. Makeup Picture Day. The makeup date for the student photographs is this coming Wednesday, the 24th of February. This makeup date is for individual photos that were not satisfactory. If you would like your child to take another photo, please be sure to send the unsatisfactory individual photos ONLY (do not include the group photo), back to your child's teacher with a note to please return to Lifetouch. There is no additional charge for taking the makeup photos.
3. Addition of Director of Instruction Role. HLA will be enriching our professional team with the addition of a newly-created position, the Director of Instruction. This role will enhance the coordination of our consultants; our instructional program; and the delivery of instruction in the classroom, with the goal of improving student achievement. We are excited about the development of our school as a professional family!
4. Upcoming Parent Organization General Membership Meeting. The next General Membership meeting of the Parent Organization is scheduled for Tuesday, February 23rd at 6.30pm. Please be sure to attend if you can.
5. Student Recruiting. Our student recruiting process for the next academic year is well under way. Realizing that word-of-mouth is the best recommendation, please continue to spread the word about the success and growth of our children at HLA. Encourage friends, relatives and neighbors to visit the HLA website and complete an application if they have children who are of age to attend our school. Important dates to remember are: April 1 (deadline to receive applications); and April 15 (lottery at HLA). There are 75 seats available for Kindergarten and a limited number of seats for first and second grade as well. A hard copy of our brochure will be distributed to all current HLA students' families. You are encouraged to share with friends, neighbors or co-workers. All are welcome!!
Thanks to all of you for your continued dedication to the success of our children.
Sincerely,
Maureen Campbell
Principal
Dear Parent:
Due to anticipated inclement weather conditions, we will have a SCHOOL CLOSING TOMORROW, FEBRUARY 10, 2010, based on the decision of the New York City Department of Education. We are making this decision today to give parents as much time as possible to make alternative plans for tomorrow. As a new school, it is valuable for you to be informed of our procedures for school closings or school delays. Please see the information below for your convenience.
What is a school closing? A school closing means students, faculty, and staff should NOT come to school.
What is a school delay? A school delay means the school will open two (2) hours later than the regularly scheduled time.
- HLA regular school day hours are 8:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m., therefore for an HLA-authorized delayed school opening, the hours will be 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
How do I get the news about a school closing or a school delay? By 6:00 a.m., the decision is announced on:
- the 311 Information Line
- the Department of Education website Home Page at http://schools.nyc.gov/calendar
On the following radio stations in the city: WINS (1010 AM); WCBS (880 AM); WABC (770 AM); WLIB (1190 AM); WADO (1280 AM); WBLS (107.5 FM); WNYE (91.5 FM).
On the following television stations: WCBS (Channel 2); WNBC (Channel 4); WNYW (Fox Channel 5); WABC (Channel 7); WNYE (Channel 25).
Once again, there is NO SCHOOL on WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 10, 2010 due to inclement weather.
Sincerely,
Maureen Campbell
Principal
Dear Parent:
Thank you for your support of our fundraiser. Ms. Campbell and her staff have provided a schedule for our students to purchase items for Valentine Day, if you would like them to do so. Here is the schedule:
Tuesday: Red room; Yellow room; Blue room.
Thursday: Orange room; Green room; White room.
Please seal any money that you are sending with your child in an envelope, printed with your child's name and class on it.
Please remember to check your child's knapsack for purchased items.
Due to overwhelming response we regret to inform you that the Antlers are no longer available.
Supplies of other items are limited.
FINALLY, PLEASE REMEMBER TO SEND BACK THE SLIPS FOR THE HEBREW NAMES PROJECT AND THE PROJECTED REGISTER, TO YOUR CHILD'S TEACHERS.
Thank you,
The Parent Organization
Dear Parent:
NEW ITEMS OF NOTE:
1. Morning Lineup now takes place in the Auditorium. Following HLA's ability to begin using the Auditorium, our morning lineup now takes place in the Auditorium instead of in the hallways outside the classrooms. As a reminder, our school day begins promptly at 8.00am. Please drop your child off early enough for them to participate in the communal activity of morning lineup and the reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance with their peers.
2. Hebrew Names Project. As partners, we have developed a dynamic Hebrew Studies program where our children are valued and engaged in learning through the home-school partnership. We are excited to introduce a new component to our program. This will connect your child to the Hebrew language in a personal way. Your support and cooperation in this exciting project is needed and encouraged. Please review and complete the "Hebrew Names Project" Survey Form and return to your child's teacher as soon as possible.
3. Upcoming Board Meeting. The next HLA Board Meeting is scheduled for February 3rd at 6.00pm, in the Auditorium. Please be sure to attend if you can.
4. Upcoming Parent Organization General Membership Meeting. The next General Membership meeting of the Parent Organization is scheduled for February 9th at 6.00pm, in the Auditorium. Please be sure to attend if you can.
5. UPDATE - Scholastic Book Fair. The first HLA Scholastic Book Fair was held during the week of January 19th following the break for Martin Luther King Day. The Book Fair was a huge success! Thank you to all of those who participated.
6. UPDATE - Parent Teacher Conferences. Parent-Teacher conferences were held January 21st. Thanks to all of those parents who were able to attend. If for some reason you were not able to make your scheduled time but would still like to meet with the teachers, please call the main office and leave a message for your child's teachers to schedule a makeup meeting time.
7. Holiday Recess Dates. As a reminder, the next school closing will be the week of February 15-19 in observance of President's Week. Regular sessions will resume on Monday February 22nd.
8. Parent Volunteers. We welcome Parent Volunteers to work in the main office. Please contact the main office and let us know if you are available to work and what your preferred time frame is and we will be sure to utilize your skills and abilities. A form will be sent home with the children via backpack, which should be completed in order to volunteer in the main office. If you are interested in volunteering in the class rooms, this would involve direct contact with the children and would therefore require potential Volunteers to be fingerprinted. Please contact the Parent Organization to get further information on the fingerprinting process and next steps to Volunteer in this capacity.
9. REMINDER - Student Recruiting for 2010-2011. We have begun our student recruitment process for the next academic year. Realizing that word-of-mouth is the best recommendation, please continue to spread the word about the success and growth of our children at HLA. Encourage friends, relatives and neighbors to visit the HLA website and complete an application if they have children who are of age to attend our school. For those who do not have web access, hard copies of applications are available in the main office. Weekly tours are given each Monday at 9.00am and again at 5.00pm.
10. HLA's Peanut-Free Policy. Thank you for your support in creating a "PEANUT-FREE" environment at HLA. This policy is needed as we have children with severe allergies. We very much rely on, and always appreciate, your sensitivity in this regard. THANK YOU!! YOU ARE APPRECIATED!!
ONGOING REMINDERS:
1. Bus service. As a reminder, HLA's Administrative Assistant, Michelle Galeotti, is responsible for the coordination of the busing. Please follow up with her to let her know of any serious delays or issues with busing, so that she can report any incidents to the Office of Pupil Transportation. PARENTS PLEASE NOTE: you will also be required to call the OPT line directly at 718-392-8855 to report and track your incident. The complaint should be recorded as coming from the school as well as the parents.
2. Lost and Found. Please remember that the Lost and Found is in the Main Office and should be checked whenever your child loses something. If you are unable to come to the school, please send a note with your child describing the article of clothing your child misplaced. We will gladly look through the Lost and Found for you and send the article of clothing back with your child, if found.
3. Parent Organization Bulletin Board. Half of the large bulletin board at the ramp entrance to HLA has been dedicated to announcements and postings by the Parent Organization. Be sure to check it out whenever you visit the school.
4. Reminder re Early Pick Up Rules. As a reminder, the latest time for "early release" is 3.30pm. Please be certain that if there are any changes in your child's routine (for example, a relative will be picking up your child instead of sending them on the bus), please be sure to call the main office by NO LATER THAN 3.15PM so that the change can be made. We thank you again for your help with keeping dismissal as organized and safe for our children as possible.
Thanks to all of you for your continued dedication to the success of our children.
Sincerely,
Maureen Campbell
Principal
Dear Parent:
Shalom! Following are updates for the first week of October.
Parent Organization. We will be holding our inaugural Parent Organization (“PO”) meetings Tuesday, October 6, 2009 in two sessions, from 8.30am – 9.00am and again from 6.00pm – 6.30pm, to accommodate working parents’ schedules.
In connection with these meetings, attached please find the following documents:
Parent Handbook. Each HLA household will receive a copy of the HLA Parent Handbook. The Handbook is critical to your child’s career with HLA and outlines rules, responsibilities, best practices and guidelines for our partnership. The purpose of having this essential document in a binder format is to facilitate the easy updating of the binder to include any written notices you receive from the school, report cards, correspondence, memos, etc.
For parents who are not able to attend the PO meetings on the 6th of October, a copy of the Parent Handbook will be sent home in your child’s backpack on October 7th. The Handbook will be accompanied by a Parent Handbook Receipt. Please sign and date the Receipt and send back to your child’s teacher the following day.
Lunch forms. Your child received a state-mandated Lunch Form which should be completed and sent back to your child’s teacher, addressed to the attention of Ms. Connelly in the main office. Please ensure that this form is sent back no later than Friday the 9th of October so that HLA is in compliance with the state’s requirements. A copy of this Form is attached to this email.
The Lunch Form is used to determine the dollar amounts for which HLA is eligible for reimbursement from the state for the meals and snacks provided to the children each day. If you feel as though you are NOT eligible for free or reduced lunches and would therefore like to “opt out” of completing the forms, please send a note indicating as such so that you are not continually contacted in connection with the missing form for your child. PLEASE NOTE THAT IF YOU OPT OUT OF COMPLETING THIS FORM, YOU WILL BE CHARGED A NOMINAL FEE FOR THE FOOD THAT YOUR CHILD IS PROVIDED EACH DAY. Each family will be invoiced on a monthly basis.
Halloween. In the best interest of safety and nutrition, HLA will not host any Halloween celebrations. Therefore please take this into consideration and kindly do not send your child in costume nor send them with any candy for distribution or consumption.
Early pickups. It is important to note that dismissal for bus children begins at 3.40pm. Once dismissal begins for the children who ride the bus home in the afternoon, it becomes a hazard to have parents coming and going from the building, and creates confusion for both the children as well as the monitors responsible for escorting the children to the buses.
A cutoff period for parent pickups has therefore been instituted, whereby parents or guardians can come to pick up the children for early release until 3.30pm. After 3.30pm, parents or guardians will be required to wait until 4.00pm to pick up their children. In the event of an emergency or a change in schedule for your child, please contact Michelle Galeotti in the main office before 3.00pm to notify us that your child will be picked up early. In this way, we can prepare the child to leave class without disrupting the rest of the class and the dismissal process for the other children.
Permission Slips for Walking Trips. As a reminder, there are Permission Slips for Walking Trips that the children will be taking with their classes. Please complete the Permission Slip if you have not already completed one, so that your child is not left behind when his classmates go on these trips. If you have already completed and returned this Slip to your child’s teacher, you do NOT need to complete another one.
Second Meeting - Chat with the Board Chair. Sara Berman has scheduled another “Chat with the Board Chair” on Tuesday, October 6th from 6.30pm – 7.30pm and will immediately follow the Parent Organization evening session. Refreshments will be served. The previous Breakfast Chat was a huge success. Feedback from the Parents in attendance was instrumental in enhancements to HLA’s program. Please try to attend this session as this provides our Parents with an intimate forum to discuss feedback, comments and concerns in connection with your child’s education at HLA.
Yours sincerely,
Maureen Campbell
Principal
Dear Parent:
Congratulations on a successful first day of school!
The phones went out for a while (as some of you may have discovered) but now they are working again. In addition , the office internet connections crashed during the day but quickly bounced back. Most important, our children loved every minute of their day exploring new teachers, new settings, and new best friends.
A few key administrative items to take note of are noted below.
The buses used to transport the children back and forth to HLA are provided by the Department of Education in the Office of Pupil Transportation (OPT). While we tried our best to ensure that everything flowed as smoothly as possible, HLA is unfortunately NOT in control of bus service. That said, we want to work with you (to the extent possible) on matters related to busing that are indeed within our control:
It is CRITICAL that HLA have the most recent, updated information on your child's Emergency Card at all times. If you move or if a cell phone number is changed, we will not have any way to access you in the event of an emergency. In addition, your child will not be released to any individual NOT listed on the child's Emergency Card. All updates to Emergency Card information should be sent in writing to the attention of Sheryl Connelly, in our office. Ms. Connelly will then update the card and ensure that the most recent information is reflected.
We are looking forward to a wonderful year with your children.
Sincerely,
Maureen Campbell
HLA Principal