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Monday, December 29, 2008
School Directory Reminder
Thursday, December 18, 2008
No School Friday
FGCS will be closed on Fri., Dec. 19 because of snow and ice. Classes
will resume on Jan. 5, after winter break. Have a safe and happy
vacation - see you in 2009!
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
No School Thursday
FGCS will be closed on Thurs., Dec. 18 because of snow and ice.
FGCS follows District decisions regarding school closures and delays.
Please monitor local broadcasts or the District web site
(www.fgsd.k12.or.us) for the latest news.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
No School Wednesday
FGCS will be closed Weds., Dec. 17 because of snow and ice.
FGCS follows District decisions regarding school closings and delayed
starts. Please listen to local broadcasts or check the District web
site (www.fgsd.k12.or.us) for the latest information.
Monday, December 15, 2008
No School Tuesday
FGCS will be closed Tuesday, December 16th.
FGCS follows District decisions regarding school closings and delayed
starts. More snow is predicted for Wednesday, so stay tuned to local
broadcasts or check the District web site at www.fgsd.k12.or.us for
the latest news. We will send email updates as information becomes
available (assuming the power stays on!).
December Newsletter
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| Forest Grove Community School 1914 Pacific Ave. Forest Grove, OR 97116 503-359-4600;503-359-4622(fax) www.fgcschool.org Read the VerticalResponse marketing policy. | |
Sunday, December 14, 2008
No School Monday
Forest Grove Community School will be closed Mon., Dec. 15.
Please listen to local broadcasts or check the District web site at
www.fgsd.k12.or.us for the latest weather-related school closings
information. We will send an email update as soon as new information
becomes available. Remember that FGCS follows District decisions about
school closings and delays.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
School Closings Information
The weather forecasters say that winter is on the way this weekend, so
this is a reminder that FGCS follows Forest Grove School District
decisions about school closings and delays.
Please listen to local radio/TV broadcasts or check the District web
site (www.fgsd.k12.or.us)for word about school delays and closures -
if Forest Grove School District schools are closed, FGCS will also be
closed. If District schools have a delayed start, we will also have a
delayed start.
FGCS students riding District buses should call the District
(503-357-6171) or review the Emergency Closures page at the District
web site for information about snow routes.
We will make every effort to update our web site (www.fgcschool.org)
and voice mail greeting (503-359-4600) to notify you of closures, but
please always check the District web sites and local broadcasts to
confirm any weather-related changes to the school schedule.
If you have questions, please contact Karen Torry at 503-359-4600 or
k.torry@fgcschool.org.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
School Directory
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Monday, December 1, 2008
Weds. Open House & Reminders
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Please join us this Wednesday from 5 to 6:30 p.m. for our Celebrations
of Learning open house. Bring a plate of cookies or other sweet treats
to share, if you are able. We will serve coffee and hot cocoa - to
help keep the celebration green, please bring your own mug.
We are focused this month on student-led service projects and invite
you to participate. Here are a few things classes have planned to help
families in need in our community:
- Rachel's class is collecting non-perishable food and warm
coats, scarves, gloves and mittens. You'll see donation boxes and a
'warming tree' in the main hallway.
- Charlie's class is adopting a local family through the Family
Resource Center; students will collect donations of food and Christmas
gifts for the family. Visit the classroom to find out how you can
help.
- Veronica's class is also adopting a family through the Family
Resource Center as well as putting together care packages to send to
soldiers stationed overseas. Visit the classroom for more information.
- Shannon's class is collecting non-perishable food for a local
food bank. Donation boxes will be in the classroom. This food drive
will continue into January.
We hope to see you on Wednesday! By the way, our open house coincides
with downtown Forest Grove's First Wednesday festivities, including
the annual lights parade starting at 6:30 p.m. Merchants will be open
late and there are activities for all ages.
OTHER NEWS
The Scholastic Book Fair is scheduled for Weds., Dec. 17-Fri.,
Dec. 19. Volunteers are needed to set up on Mon., Dec. 15 and to help
with book sales at the following times: 8:35-8:50 a.m. and 3:05-4:00
p.m. Weds., and Thurs.; 8:35-8:50 a.m. and 1:05-2 p.m. Fri. Please
contact Shannon Carskadon at shannon_carskadon@msn.com to volunteer
your time.
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Forest Grove Community School
1914 Pacific Ave.
Forest Grove, Oregon 97116
503-359-4600; 503-359-4622(fax)
www.fgcschool.org
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Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Reminders and Upcoming Events
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Dear FGCS Families,
- Remember there is no school Weds.-Fri. this week. Happy
Thanksgiving!
- Celebrations of Learning 5-6:30 p.m. Weds., Dec. 3: Please join us
for this open house at school. Coffee and hot cocoa will be served;
please bring a plate of cookies or other sweet treats to share. You're
also invited to participate in student-led service projects by
bringing non-perishable food or warm winter coats, hats and gloves for
donation to the Family Resource Center in Forest Grove and the food
pantry in Cornelius.
- Absent/tardy students: Parents, please call the school office at
503-359-4600 before 8:50 a.m. if your student will be absent or late.
Please do not email or leave voice mail for the classroom teacher
directly; they sometimes don't receive these messages until later in
the day.
Enjoy the long holiday weekend!
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______________________________________________________________________
Forest Grove Community School sent this email free of charge using
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Forest Grove Community School
1914 Pacific Ave.
Forest Grove, OR 97116
503-359-4600;503-359-4622(fax)
www.fgcschool.org
Read the VerticalResponse marketing policy:
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Friday, November 14, 2008
November Newsletter
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Thursday, November 13, 2008
All's Well at Outdoor School
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Dear Level 2 Families - Just a quick note to let you know that
everything is fine with our students at outdoor school on the coast.
Charlie sent an email last night to let us know that it has been
raining steadily, but students have adjusted well, are learning much
and having fun. It will be a trip they'll never forget!
You may have heard that there are some road closures on the northern
Oregon coast, but we have no information at this point that there are
any closures that would affect our return trip to Forest Grove on
Friday. We will notify you immediately if there are any changes.
Weather forecasts are for clearing today and tomorrow. Students are
expected to be back at school at about 2 p.m. We'll get a phone call
from teachers as soon as they are on the road and within cell phone
range.
If you have questions, please feel free to contact Karen at
503-359-4600 or k.torry@fgcschool.org.
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______________________________________________________________________
Forest Grove Community School sent this email free of charge using
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Forest Grove Community School
1914 Pacific Ave.
Forest Grove, Oregon 97116
503-359-4600; 503-359-4622(fax)
www.fgcschool.org
Read the VerticalResponse marketing policy:
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Monday, November 10, 2008
Veterans Day/Outdoor School
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A reminder that school is closed tomorrow - Tues., Nov. 11 - for the
Veterans Day holiday, EXCEPT for Level 2 students departing for
Outdoor School.
Level 2 students should be at school no later than 9:30 a.m.(but,
please, no earlier than 9 a.m.). Parents may drop off students'
luggage and medications 6:30-7:30 p.m. this evening (Mon., Nov. 10).
Please refer to earlier email messages from Level 2 teachers for more
details.
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______________________________________________________________________
Forest Grove Community School sent this email free of charge using
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affordably.
Forest Grove Community School
1914 Pacific Ave.
Forest Grove, Oregon 97116
503-359-4600; 503-359-4622(fax)
www.fgcschool.org
Read the VerticalResponse marketing policy:
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Sunday, November 2, 2008
Drive-Through Decision
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Dear FGCS Families:
We're writing to let you know that we have decided to leave our
drive-through lane closed permanently. With our new modular buildings,
students are passing across the traffic lane throughout the day,
including at release times. After looking at several alternatives and
consulting with the city and our insurance agent, we decided that the
current system provides the safest option. In addition, closing the
lane offers the possibility of providing some hardscape play area and
a courtyard area for student learning and play (stay tuned for
details).
Student pick up and drop off will continue in the same way we have
done it this school year: Please park nearby on the street or in city
parking lots and walk to school to drop off or pick up your child.
City parking lots are located on 19th Ave. behind the Hello Market
(south of the FGCS play yard) and between Pacific and 21st Ave.,
behind the Forest Theater across from FGCS. Please do NOT park in the
bank parking lot next door or other business lots nearby. Your car may
be towed and our downtown business neighbors will not be happy with
us.
Some parents have asked whether they may drop their students off at
the curb and let them walk to school on their own or whether they may
arrange to meet their students at the library or elsewhere downtown.
The answer is that parents are free to make whatever transportation
arrangements they think appropriate for their students, BUT please
notify the classroom teacher and the office in writing of any changes.
In particular, you must notify the office in writing if your child has
permission to self release at the end of the day.
If you have questions, concerns or suggestions, please contact Karen
Torry at k.torry@fgcschool.org or 503-359-4600.
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______________________________________________________________________
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affordably.
Forest Grove Community School
1914 Pacific Ave.
Forest Grove, Oregon 97116
503-359-4600; 503-359-4622(fax)
www.fgcschool.org
Read the VerticalResponse marketing policy:
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Thursday, October 23, 2008
Bowling Night Fundraiser
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| Forest Grove Community School 1914 Pacific Ave. Forest Grove, Oregon 97116 503-359-4600;503-359-4622 www.fgcschool.org |
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Pizza Wednesday - Reminder
Every Wednesday our Fabulous Fundraising Committee serves Pizza
Schmizza slices for lunch, but orders must be placed and paid for by
noon Tuesday. Students may NOT pay for slices on Wednesdays.
All are encouraged to bring their own plates to avoid using paper -
and to receive a small treat. Students should bring their own
beverages and any thing else they need for lunch.
Pizza Wednesday Order forms are available at school (near the
fundraising box in the main floor hailway) or on the Documents page of
our website at www.fgcschool.org. If you have questions or would like
to volunteer to help with Pizza Wednesdays, please contact Misty Lewis
at semile@verizon.net or Tessa Anderson at tessa97119@verizon.net.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Clarification
Dear FGCS Families - Many of you had questions about an email sent
Friday regarding the city ordinance addressing use of skateboards,
scooters, roller skates, etc. Here is the full text of the city
ordinance:
Forest Grove City Code 6.080 Roller Skates, Sleds, Etc.
(1) No person upon roller skates, a skateboard or riding in or by
means of a coaster, toy vehicle or similar device shall use the
streets, except while crossing at a crosswalk or in an authorized
area.
(2) No person shall use the streets for traveling on skis,
toboggans, or similar devices, except where authorized.
(3) No person upon roller skates, or skateboard, or riding in or
by means of a coaster, toy vehicle or similar device shall use
sidewalks in the Central Business District of the City. (ORD 1987-09,
6/22/87)
It appears that 'wheels' of this type are fine on sidewalks in the
city EXCEPT in the Central Business District, where FGCS is located
(for a map of the Central Business District, visit the city's web site
at www.forestgrove-or.gov and click on the Planning Division link
under Cit Services). Skateboards, scooters, roller blades and such are
not allowed on any city streets except at crosswalks.
Again, we know that this ordinance poses a dilemma for families whose
students may be skating, boarding or scootering to school. We aren't
advising families to take any particular action, but simply want to
share information we received from the police department. And, again,
we ask that you encourage your children to act safely and responsibly,
however they are traveling around town.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Scooters, Skateboards & Skates
Dear FGCS Families:
We're writing to make you aware of a city ordinance that affects
students riding skateboards, scooters and roller skates or roller
blades to school.
Teresa Kohl, the city's community service officer, stopped by
today to let us know that city code prohibits riding scooters, roller
skates, skateboards and 'similar devices' on city streets and
sidewalks. She also reported that she had received a complaint from a
neighbor/business owner who had to dodge a scooter coming down the
sidewalk near the school.
This is a difficult issue for us as a school community - we want to
encourage families to drive less and we support students coming to
school under their own power. But, of course, it is important that we
observe the law and maintain positive relationships with our downtown
neighbors.
It appears that the city seldom issues citations for violations of
the "no wheels on sidewalks" ordinance but the police are authorized
to do so and will respond to complaints of unsafe riding. Please take
time to talk with your students about behaving safely and responsibly,
whether the are on wheels or on foot.
If you have questions about the city ordinance, please contact
Officer Kohl at 503-992-3108. If you have questions about school rules
related to skateboards, scooters, etc., please contact Karen Torry at
503-359-4600 or k.torry@fgcschool.org. Thanks for your help keeping
our school and our neighborhood safe.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
High School Mentors Needed
Dear FGCS Families:
Nine of our high school (Level 4) students are currently working on a
variety of projects in their "Self-Directed Learning" (SDL) class.
They
have reached the point in their process where adult mentors are
needed to assist, review and support their work. This will be the
first time many of these freshmen and sophmores will have an outside
expert adult act as a support in their learning efforts. Details of
the mentoring relationship will be negotiated by the mentor and
student, with teacher guidance as needed.
Would you look through the list of goals and projects below and see if
you know of people who could be helpful to our student-researchers? We
would appreciate any relevant materials you might have, as well.
--Repairing a Honda/mechanics
--Creating a scrapbook about horse breeds for our school library
--Photographing nature and extreme sports for display and sale
--Developing a photo-menu of healthful snacks for publication/use
at Pacific Univ.
--Completing and publishing a novel
--Increasing skills in reading, writing and speaking Hebrew
--Increasing skills in drawing human figures and hands for art
portfolio/display
--Creating/publishing a complete animated story for a showing
--Increasing skills in rock band drumming for a show
Each student will be responsible for a presentation in January (end of
semester) before an audience of her/his choice, to include the
principal, teacher and mentor.
If you have suggestions or questions, please contact SDL teacher Robin
Lindsley at r.lindsley@fgcschool.org. Thank you for your help!
Family Bowling Night Oct. 25
Committee is sponsoring a Family Bowling Night on Saturday, October
25th at Rainbow Lanes in Forest Grove.
Bowling for Level 1 and 2 families will be 6-8 p.m.; Levels 3 and 4
will be 8-10 p.m. There will be a costume contest and raffle.
Cost is $10/person for unlimited bowling. Pizza and soda will be
available for purchase. Proceeds will support Outdoor School and
other outdoor learning activities.
If you'd like to volunteer with the fundraising committee, please
contact Misty Lewis at semile@verizon.net.
*Rainbow Lanes is located at 2748 19th Place in Forest Grove, 1/2
block east of Ballad Town Shopping Center/Safeway.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Picture Retakes - Correction
November 6th. An incorrect date was listed in an earlier message.
Sorry for the confusion.
FGCS
News & Reminders
at 503-359-4600 if you haven't scheduled a conference with your
child's classroom teacher for Weds. or Thurs. FYI - During
conferences, teachers will give you a form asking you to provide
information about your household income. This is an anonymous,
confidential form to collect information the school needs for grant
applications. Please help support our school by completing and turning
in this form when you come in for conferences.
--Lost & Found: We already have a big pile of jackets, sweaters and
miscellaneous items left behind on the playground and elsewhere. We'll
have them out on a table during conferences - please take a look and
claim what's yours. Unclaimed items will be donated to a charitable
clothes closet for foster children.
-- Pizza Wednesdays start next week: Thanks to our fabulous
fundraising committee, we'll again have slices of Pizza Schmizza
available for lunch on Wednesdays throughout the school year. Cost is
$2.50/slice for cheese, pepperoni or Don Ho(Canadian bacon and
pineapple)- sorry, we can't take special requests or provide drinks.
You must order and pay by noon on Tuesday - we can't accept any
same-day orders. Order forms are available near the fundraising box
(located in the hallway of the main building) or on the Documents page
of our web site (www.fgcschool.org). Also, to avoid using throwaway
paper products, we ask students to bring a plate and napkin from home
- you'll get a candy treat AND save trees if you do!
-- School Photo Retakes - Students who missed picturs or want a new
picture taken will have the chance on Thurs., Nov. 11. Students who
missed the opportunity to order student photo identification cards can
do that the same day, even if they are not having a picture taken. ID
cards cost $1.00. Make checks payable to Craig Huston Photography.
-- Late Arrivals: Students arriving after 8:50 a.m. must sign in at
the school office before going to class, including students in the
modular classrooms.
-- Wet Weather: Students should wear or bring a water-resistant jacket
and shoes or boots to school EVERY day, rain or shine - as we all
know, the weather can change very quickly and Oregon winters (and
autumns, and springs) tend to be very wet.
-- Bikes, Scooters and Skateboards - Cheers to all our students coming
to school under their own power, on wheels or on foot. A few rules and
reminders:
- Students may not store boards or scooters in the classroom or
hallways.
- There is a cool, student-built wooden rack under the canopy for
students to lock boards and scooters. We have a limited number of
padlocks students can use for a $5 deposit - see Donna or Vickie in
the office.
- Please don't bike or ride ON school property, including under
the canopy.
- Please lock up your wheels - many bikes, boards and scooters
are being left unlocked outdoors. FGCS will not be responsible for
thefts of any personal items.
- Oregon law requires anyone under 16 to wear a helmet while
riding a bike. The helmet law requires those 15 and younger to wear
helmets while riding scooters, skateboards and inline skates. The law
applies in all public areas, including sidewalks and parking lots.
- Student failure to obey these rules, as with any school rules,
will be addressed as a student conduct issue. Please contact Karen
with any questions at 503-359-4600 or k.torry@fgcschool.org.
Friday, October 3, 2008
Principal's Letter - Conferences
As you know, student goal-setting conferences are scheduled for Weds.,
Oct. 8 and Thurs., Oct. 9. These conferences are a little different
than those in other schools, so I'd like to share a bit of background
to explain why we're using this approach.
Our school was founded on the belief that in order for students to
learn, they must be active partners in their education. One of the
ways we engage students in their education is through student-led,
goal-setting conferences. At these meetings, students share their
goals for the upcoming semester with their parents and teacher. Before
the conferences, students will spend class time reflecting on their
goals and considering how to set attainable and measurable goals. At
the conference, teacher, parents, and student will commit to a plan to
meet the stated goals.
This process is intended to help students be involved in their
learning -- to see that learning is not something that happens to them
but something that they make happen with assistance from others. You
can help your child in this process by taking a supportive, rather
than directive, role at the conference. Let the child decide the
goals. Don't worry if your child's goals aren't what you would have
chosen; what's important here is for your child to take ownership of
their work. If you have a goal for your child that you feel needs
special attention, or if you want to discuss any issues or concerns,
teachers will be happy to arrange a separate time to meet with you.
Goals that your child develops will be included in his/her Personal
Learning Plan and teachers will follow up with students throughout the
semester.
If you have not already scheduled a conference for your Level 1, 2 or
3 student, please stop by or call the office at 503-359-4600 to sign
up for a half-hour slot on Weds. or Thurs. Parents of Level 4
students will be contacted by their students' advisory teachers to
arrange a meeting time.
Teachers are looking forward to this time with you and your children.
Thank you for your support of your students and our school.
Vanessa Gray
Principal
Letter from FGCS Board Chair
Dear FGCS Community:
I'm writing this to let you know that, after five years of thrills,
chills, and excitement, I am stepping down as chair of the FGCS Board
of Directors and leaving my position as a board member. I did not
make this decision lightly, but my kids have shared me with this
school for a long time now, and I need to spend some time with them
before they grow up and leave the nest.
Though I fully believe that the school is in great shape and has
fantastic leadership, my resignation leaves the board even more
shorthanded than it has been already these past few months. When we
started the school, the board had seven members; for a variety of
reasons, over the course of the year, that number has dwindled to 3.
This is not sustainable – no matter how good and dedicated these few
people are, they cannot cover the board responsibilities without
additional help. This is a young and growing school that is off to a
great start but, without a skillful and engaged board, the continued
development of the school will be difficult.
The board has oversight of the school finances, a responsibility to
evaluate the staff and program to ensure adherence to stated mission
and values, and, in addition, must also guide the school through the
process of designing and building a new facility to accommodate the
growth of the school. For this we need expertise in finance, human
resources, education, fundraising, and legal matters, though many of
these skills can be contracted out to experienced professionals if
necessary.
What is absolutely essential to have on the board are members that
care about the school, believe in its mission, and are excited about
helping it grow to its next level. Without that support from the
board, our school staff will be unable to fully deliver the program we
have envisioned. Therefore, if you are looking for a challenging but
extremely rewarding way to become involved with the school, contact a
board member near you to let them know of your interest. They are Jon
Stagnitti (j.stagnitti@fgcschool.org), Alejandro Tecum
(a.tecum@fgcschoolorg) and Janet Taylor (j.taylor@fgcschool.org).
Better yet, attend the next board meeting at 7 p.m. Tues., Oct. 21st
at school to find out more about getting involved.
In closing, I want to say that it has been my greatest pleasure to
work with all of you of who have been involved in the development of
this amazing school. These past years, though often intense, have
been extremely rewarding and I thank all of you who have already given
so much to this endeavor. Though my involvement in the school will
now be mainly through my kids, I'm looking forward to another great
year for the school and everyone in it.
Terry O'Day
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Conferences Oct. 8 and 9
Student goal-setting conferences are scheduled for next week - Weds.,
Oct. 8 and Thurs., Oct. 9. There is no school Weds., Thurs. or Fri.,
Oct. 10, which is a statewide teacher inservice day.
Conferences will be scheduled in half-hour slots 9 a.m.-noon and 1-5
p.m. Wednesday; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and 3-6 p.m. Thursday.
Parents of students in Levels 1, 2 and 3 should call 503-359-4600 or
stop by the office to schedule a half hour conference.
Level 4/high school conferences will be handled a little differently.
Conferences days and times are the same but students' advisory
teachers will call parents to arrange individual times.
We look forward to meeting with you next week!
Reminder - Weds. Open House
Learning, an open house for families and the public at the Forest
Grove Community School. This informal event is part of First Wednesday
festivities in downtown Forest Grove - it's a great chance to visit
classrooms and see what students have been learning during the first
month of school. As a bonus, you can pick up organic veggies or have
dinner at the Farmers Market on Main Street before or after you stop
by school. Hope to see you on Wednesday!
Reminder: There is no school Oct. 8-10. Student goal-setting
conferences will be Weds., Oct. 8 and Thurs., Oct. 9. Fri., Oct. 10 is
a statewide teacher inservice day. If you have questions about
conferences, please contact your child's classroom or advisory
teacher.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Thanks, Everyone - We're Almost There!
modular classrooms. Special thanks to:
--Level 3 students who devoted the end of their school day to hauling
tables into the level 4 building
--Students (including a large Level 4 contingent) and parents who came
after school to finish the job
-- Donna Van Dyke, our secretary/jill-of-all-trades, who oversaw the
work
--Gert Jorgensen who donated the beautiful planter boxes and trees
from his nursery, Landsvale Gardens
--Elizabeth Annis and Shannon Perry for recruiting student and parent
help
LEVEL 3 AND 4 CLASSES WILL BEGIN IN THE NEW BUILDINGS ON MONDAY,
SEPTEMBER 29 and we'd like the rooms to be Ready on Day One - if
you're handy with tools (electric drill/screwdriver, stud finder), we
need your help starting at 10 a.m. Saturday to hang boards, projector
screens, clocks, etc., and clean up the grounds around our new
classrooms. You can just show up, but it would be great to know who's
coming - please contact Karen at 503-359-4600 or
k.torry@fgcschool.org. Refreshments provided.
NOTE: At this point, we don't know yet whether the drive-through lane
will be ready on Monday -please check your inbox this weekend for
news.
October 1st Open House
will host Celebrations of Learning, an open house for families and the
community, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Weds., October 1st.
This is an opportunity for parents, siblings, grandparents and
community members to visit our classrooms, talk with teachers, meet
new friends and see what's been happening in the early weeks of
school. We hope you'll join us!
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Moving Day!
ready to be set up so classes can begin there on Monday. Some of our
Level 3 and 4 students have volunteered to move in furniture after
school on Thursday starting at 3:30 p.m. - please come give them a
hand! We also need volunteers to hang up dry-erase and bulletin
boards - if you can help with this, please bring an electric drill
with screwdriver bits and a stud finder.
Questions? Contact Karen at 503-359-4600 or k.torry@fgcschool.
Can't come on Thursday? We may need volunteers over the weekend -
watch your inbox for another message later this week.
Hope to see you Thursday!
P.S. Other Thursday happenings:
-- Meet & Greet 9-10:15 a.m. at Lincoln Park Pavilion 2 - coffee
and pastries will be served. Bring your own cup and come meet other
FGCS parents. There's a play area nearby for little ones.
-- Fundraising Committee Meeting 7 p.m. Grand Lodge Yardhouse
(outdoors): Come learn about fundraising plans for the year and get
involved in supporting our school.
Friday, September 19, 2008
FGCS Updates & Reminders
wonderful getting to know your children and watching our school
community grow. Here's this week's news:
UPDATES
Building: We are sorry to report that the modular buildings are still
not ready for us. Level 3 and 4 students should report on Monday to
the Senior Center and the UCC. These delays have been very frustrating
for us and, we imagine, for students and parents. Here's the status:
Both buildings have passed structural inspections. The electric pole
was installed on Wednesday and the second handicapped ramp is almost
complete. The electrician will be here Monday and we hope to have
power to the buildings Tues. or Weds. The drive-through lane will also
be re-paved this week. We are planning a moving party for next weekend
- details to follow. To volunteer, please contact Karen at
503-359-4600 or k.torry@fgcschool.org.
EVENTS
--Peace Day Celebration 12:30-4 p.m. Sun., 9/21 at McMenamin's Grand
Lodge Yardhouse. Roots & Shoots members (including FGCS students) will
fly giant peace dove puppets, singer-songwriter Dana Lyons will
perform and there will be information/activity tables. Food and
beverages will be available for purchase. The event is free, but
donations to Roots & Shoots are
welcome.
--FGCS Meet & Greet 9-10:15 a.m. Thurs., Sept. 25 at Lincoln Park
Pavilion #2(near the skate park - The FGCS Fundraising
Committee welcomes all parents and family members to come out and meet
other families from FGCS. BYOC (Bring Your Own Cup - coffee will be
provided and there is a great play structure to keep the little ones
entertained.
-- Fundraising Committee Meeting 7:00 p.m. Thurs., Sept. 25 at the
Yardhouse outdoors at McMenamin's Grand Lodge. We have quite a few
activities planned this year, and would love to have many extra hands
that are willing to help.
REMINDERS
Early Release Fridays: Remember that ALL students release at 1:05
p.m. on Fridays.
Late Arrivals: If your students will arrive at school later than
8:50 a.m., please come into the office to sign them in. Last week we
made several unnecessary calls home because students were marked
absent when they were actually at school but had arrived after
attendance was taken and had not signed in.
Pick up and drop off: School starts at 8:50 a.m. The main
entrance (under the canopy)is opene at 8:35 a.m. Please don't drop
children off before 8:35. After 8:50, students should come through the
east office door and sign in.
Student Safety: While our drive-through lane is out of
commission, please continue to park nearby and walk your children to
school. If you allow your children to walk on their own, please remind
them to do so safely. We've had some concerning reports of children
crossing streets without checking for traffic AND reports of drivers
not paying attention to children. We've asked teachers to review safe
walking practices with children and ask you to please do the same at
home. We support students coming to school under their own power but,
above all, want to make sure they are safe.
Footwear: FGCS students and teachers do a lot of walking. While
it's fine for students to wear their favorite slip-ons or flip-flops
in class, they should always bring a pair of sturdy sneakers or
walking shoes for going outdoors. Students without appropriate
footwear are at risk of being left out of activities. FYI, here is the
schedule for PE and Out & Abouts, days when all students MUST have
sturdy shoes:
MONDAY
PE: Shannon (Level 3)
TUESDAY
PE: Rachel (Level 1)
Gretchen (Level 2)
Out & About
Veronica (Level 2), Karen (Level 1) and John (Level 3)
WEDNESDAY
PE: Karen, Veronica
Out & About:
Sherry (level 1), Charlie (Level 2), Level 4 (High School)
THURSDAY
PE: Sherry, Charlie
Out & About: Rachel, Gretchen, Shannon
FRIDAY
PE: Level 4
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Picture Day Friday
were sent home with students last week. Order forms with payment
should be brought to school on Friday. If you'd like to order a
student identification card, please write "Student ID" on the order
form and add $1.00 to your payment total.
Please note that ordering photos is optional, but all students will be
photographed for student records and class composite photos.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Peace Day Celebration
Nations International Day of Peace this Sunday, September 21, from
12:30-4 p.m. at McMenamin's Grand Lodge Yardhouse. Roots & Shoots
members will fly giant peace dove puppets, singer-songwriter Dana
Lyons will perform and there will be information/activity tables. Food
and beverages will be available for purchase. Please join us for this
event, which, in the words of Roots & Shoots founder Jane Goodall,
"celebrates all that is free and noble in the human spirit."
There is no charge for the event, but donations to Roots & Shoots are
welcome.
Roots & Shoots is an international group that engages young people in
projects supporting animals, the environment and the human community.
The Forest Grove group, which includes students from FGCS and Tom
McCall Upper Elementary School, is led by teacher Charlie Graham and
meets weekly after school at Tom McCall. Information will be sent home
soon about meeting days and times.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Upcoming Events
upcoming events.
THIS WEEK
-- 5 p.m. Weds., Sept. 17 - Pre-register for the Sidewalk Chalk
Art Festival at Valley Art Association on Main Street. Squares are
available for the first time this year on Pacific Ave. in front of the
school. Festival is 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sat., Sept. 20.
-- Fri.,Sept. 19 - Student Picture Day at FGCS. Please send in
order form with payment on Friday. Write "student ID" and add $1.00 to
your order if you'd like to purchase a student identification card.
Stop by the office if your student's order form didn't make it home.
NEXT WEEK
-- 9-10:15 a.m. Thurs., Sept. 25 at Lincoln Park Pavilion #2
(near the skate park) - FGCS Meet & Greet: The FGCS Fundraising
Committee, led by parent volunteer Kelly Daily, welcomes all parents
and family members to come out and meet other families from FGCS.
This is a BYOC (Bring Your Own Cup) event. Coffee will be provided
and there is a great play structure to keep the little ones
entertained.
--7:00 p.m. Thurs., Sept. 25 - Fundraising Committee meeting at
the Yardhouse outdoors at McMenamin's Grand Lodge. We have quite a few
activities planned this year, and would love to have many extra hands
that are willing to help.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
FGCS Updates
Everything has gone so smoothly -- thanks to all of you for your
cooperation and support. Some updates and reminders:
-- Levels 3 and 4: Work on the modular classrooms is almost - but not
quite - complete, so we are planning for one more week in our
temporary locations. Level 3 classes will remain at the Senior Center
and the high school at the UCC Church. We will notify you just as soon
as we have news that we can move into the new buildings. By the way,
your kids have received high marks from both of our short-term
landlords for being respectful guests and good stewards of our
temporary homes.
-- Student Pictures Sept. 19: Craig Huston Photography will be at
school Fri., Sept. 19 to take student pictures. Order forms were sent
home with Level 1 and 2 students today; forms for Levels 3 and 4 will
be sent home Friday, Sept. 12. Forms with payment should be brought to
school no later than the 19th. Please note: You may order a student ID
card for only $1.00, but (for some reason) this is not listed on the
form - please write in 'Student ID Card' and add $1.00 to your payment
total.
-- Enrollment Paperwork: New and returning families, please return
forms to the office immediately. Returning students should have
brought home a packet of forms this week; new student families
received them earlier this summer. Please stop by the office if you
need replacement forms.
-- Medications: Students are not allowed to carry any medications
(prescription or over-the-counter) at school. This school District
rule includes inhalers, topical creams and medications in pill or
liquid form. If a student needs to take medication during the day, a
parent or guardian must bring it to school with a doctor's
prescription or note. Please do not send medications, including
refills, with your student to school.
Lunch Volunteers Urgently Needed: Please help our hardworking teachers
take a lunch break every day - volunteer to supervise students having
lunch in their classrooms. If you really want to be our heroes,
volunteer to stay for after-lunch recess, too. Please contact Vickie
at 503-359-4600 or v.jares@fgcschool.org.
-- 4-H Leaders and Co-Leaders Wanted: FGCS is trying to develop 4-H
clubs at school this year to offer opportunities for students to
develop skills and engage in fun activities. We are looking for adult
volunteers to act as leaders or co-leaders. Please contact Donna at
503-359-4600 or d.vandyke@fgcschool.org if you'd like to get involved.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
We Did It!
The building is ready for our first day of school tomorrow. Many, many
thanks to the crew of parents and students who took time on a sunny
Sunday to move HEAVY furniture, configure computers, sweep sidewalks,
haul recycling and much, much more. One parent was even heard to say,
"This is fun!" Thanks, too, to our amazing teachers and staff who have
devoted so many summer hours to FGCS. We're all looking forward to a
great year with your children.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS
-- School starts for all students at 8:50; students may arrive
starting at 8:35 a.m. Dismissal is at 3:05 for Level 1, 3:20 for
Levels 2 and 3, 3:35 for Level 4. Please pick up your student
promptly. All students dismiss at 1:05 p.m. every Friday.
-- No drive-through pick up or drop off this week. Please park on the
street or in free city lots nearby and walk to school. Please don't
pass through the parking lot - it's still a construction zone.
-- Level 3 will meet at the Forest Grove Senior Center; Level 4 will
meet at the Forest Grove UCC Church. We will let you know as soon as
we're able to start classes in the modular buildings.
--Returning families: If you need to update contact or pick-up
information, ask for a form in the office. We must have written notice
of any changes.
See you all tomorrow!
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Thank You, Volunteers!
A huge thank you to the parents, students and other volunteers who
took time on a beautiful Saturday afternoon to assemble classroom
tables, haul trash, stamp books, set up computers, sharpen pencils,
dust and much much more. I am more grateful than I can express for the
amazing commitment you all show to our school community.
The final push is tomorrow - starting at 11 a.m., we will begin moving
furniture into one of modular buildings and start setting up those
classrooms. Students won't be in those buildings next week, but we can
hang dry erase boards and do other tasks. We'll also do a final
spruce-up around the building to make sure everything is set for
Monday. Please come by and help if you can. Tools that would help:
heavy-duty push broom, power washer, power drill with screwdriver
bits, power washer. If you have a trailer and could haul brush out of
the school yard, that would be a huge help.
Hope to see you at 11 a.m. tomorrow. Again, many thanks to all the
volunteers who gave their time today -
Karen Torry
Friday, September 5, 2008
Work Party P.S.
weekend - staff will also be on site all day today (Friday, Sept. 5th)
and will be happy to put volunteers to work. It's not glamorous but
it's all part of getting ready for the first day of school.
Many hands make light work ... hope to see you at school this weekend!
FGCS Teachers & Staff
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1914 Pacific Ave.
Forest Grove, Oregon 97116
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Thursday, September 4, 2008
Lunch & Recess Volunteers
classroom teachers work hard all day helping your children learn and
grow. Unlike other public schools, however, FGCS does not have funding
for staff to supervise students at recess and lunch - we rely on
volunteers. Without enough volunteers, teachers give up their lunch
periods and short breaks to do this important work. Last year we were
fortunate to have a core of faithful regular volunteers but this year
- with three new classes - we need a bigger group.
Please help our teachers by volunteering your time at lunch and
recess. The need is especially great during our first week of school
when staff will be supporting teachers in three locations and our play
yard is temporarily off limits during the modulars construction.
Morning recess are at 10:20 (Level 1) and 10:40 (Level 2). Lunch
periods begin at 11:20 (Level 3), 11:40 (Level 1), 11:50 (Level 4) and
12:10 (Level 2).
Lunch/recess duty is a fun way to get to know your child's classmates,
get some fresh air and make a real difference in our school community.
Our volunteer coordinator, Vickie Jares, will happily show you the
ropes. Please contact Vickie at 503-359-4600 or v.jares@fgcschool.org.
Thanks for your support!
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______________________________________________________________________
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Forest Grove, Oregon 97116
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Work Party at School
Crews will be hard at work the next few day getting them ready for
occupancy. Although Level 3 and 4 classes will still meet in
temporary locations next week, it's time to start getting the 'mods'
ready for classes.
Please come to school this weekend to help out. Staff and volunteers
will be here 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (or until we drop) Saturday and Sunday.
Here are jobs that need to be done:
1. Assemble classroom tables (bring electric screwdriver or electric
drill w/Philips screwdriver bits)
2. Move classroom furniture into the modulars
3. Hang dry-erase boards and bulletin boards
4. Unpack and shelve books
5. Haul away recycling and trash (we'll pay dump fees if needed).
6. Pick up trash and pull weeds.
Please contact Karen at 503-359-4600 or k.torry@fgcschool.org if you
have questions. We look forward to seeing you this weekend!
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______________________________________________________________________
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Forest Grove, Oregon 97116
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Monday, September 1, 2008
Important Updates and Reminders
Dear FGCS Families:
Happy Labor Day! At FGCS, most of us are celebrating the day
by laboring to get ready for the first day of school next Monday,
September 8th. Here are some updates, reminders and a request for your
help as we get ready to welcome 200 students next week.
UPDATES
Pick up/Drop off 1st Week of School: We have just been notified by the
contractor overseeing installation of the modular classrooms that work
will continue through the first week of school. For the safety of
student, staff and visitors, we are closing the parking lot and
drive-through lane for the first week while work is completed.
Students will enter and exit through the west doors under the canopy
(not the office door).
DROP OFF: Please plan to park nearby on the street or in free city
parking lots and walk your student to school. Please don't park in
business lots as your car may be towed. If your student is able to
safely walk unescorted from your car to school, please park in a way
that avoids backing up traffic and, most important, please make sure
your student takes a safe route.
PICK UP: Students will wait for pick up in class groups under and near
the canopy on the west side of the building. Please park nearby and
walk to pick up your student; do not walk through the parking lot.
Please note that unless students are authorized to self-release we
cannot allow them to leave school on their own at the end of the day.
We are sorry for the inconvenience this creates and assure you that
we are doing everything we can to resolve this situation as quickly as
possible. If you have questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact
Karen at 503-359-4600 or k.torry@fgcschool.org.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS
TEMPORARY CLASSROOMS: Students in Level 3 (7th/8h) and Level 4
(9th/10th) will meet the first week of school in temporary locations
as we finalize installation of our modular classroom buildings, which
are scheduled to arrive Weds., Sept. 3rd.
Level 3 classes will meet at the Forest Grove Senior Center at 2037
Douglas St. To drop off students, turn onto Douglas Street from
Pacific Ave., drive past the senior center parking lot to 21st Ave.
Teachers will be waiting to greet students at the rear building doors
on 21st Ave. starting at 8:35 a.m. Students will dismiss from the
center at 3:20 p.m.
Level 4 students will meet at the Forest Grove UCC, 2032 College Way,
across the street from Pacific University, just two blocks from FGCS.
To drop off students, take Main St. to 21st Ave.,turn east on 21st
Ave., then turn right on College Way. Teachers will be waiting to
greet students at the entrance on College Way starting at 8:35 a.m.
Students will dismiss from this location at 3:35 a.m.
SCHOOL SUPPLIES: Lists of supplies students are asked to bring in are
posted at our web site: www.fgcschool.org. All students should bring
in their supplies during the first week.
ENROLLMENT PAPERWORK DUE NOW: New families should have turned in all
paperwork by now. If you have not yet done so, please turn these
documents in to Donna in the office as soon as possible.
CONTACT & RELEASE INFORMATION: If your email address, phone number or
other contact information has changed, please let us know right away
by calling the office (503-359-4600) or emailing our school secretary,
Donna (d.vandyke@fgcschool.org). Please also let us know if there is
any change in pick up or release plans for your student.
Looking forward to seeing you all next week!
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Forest Grove, Oregon 97116
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Wednesday, August 27, 2008
FGCS Updates
Dear FGCS Families:
The first day of school is less than two weeks away and
teachers and staff are busy preparing for the arrival of students on
Monday, September 8. We're writing to update you on the status of
building plans and to ask for your help in preparing for the new year.
Building Update – Level 3 and 4 parents, please take note: Plans for
placing modular classroom buildings for Levels 3 and 4 continues at a
fast pace - however, we hit a snag when the Planning Commission
delayed final approval of our city permit until Tuesday, Sept. 2.
Because of this delay, the 'mods' may not be ready for our first day
on Sept. 8, so we have secured temporary classrooms nearby at the
Forest Grove UCC Church and the Senior Center.
We are eager to have our entire community together on one campus and
so we aren't thrilled at the prospect of starting the year with some
of us in temporary spaces - please be assured that we are working very
hard to get everyone settled in their permanent school homes. We
expect to need these temporary spaces for a short period of time, if
at all, but parents should plan on delivering students to the
temporary locations for the first day of school. Teachers and staff
will work together to make sure students have a positive experience
whatever the physical location of their classrooms and staff. Thanks
for your understanding and patience. If you have any questions, please
contact Karen at 503-359-4600 or k.torry@fgcschool.org.
Here are the details about our short-term temporary spaces:
Level 3 students (7th/8th) will meet at the Forest Grove
Senior Center, 2037 Douglas St. To drop off students, turn onto
Douglas from Pacific Ave., drive past the senior center parking lot to
21st Ave. Teachers will be waiting to greet students at the building
doors on 21st Ave. starting at 8:35 a.m. Students will dismiss from
the center at 3:20 p.m.
Level 4 (9th/10th) students will meet at the Forest Grove UCC,
2032 College Way, across the street from Pacific University, just two
blocks from FGCS. To drop off students, take Main St. to 21st Ave.,
turn east on 21st Ave., then turn right on College Way. Teachers will
be waiting to greet students at the entrance on College Way starting
at 8:35 a.m. Students will dismiss from this location at 3:35 a.m.
We will keep you updated, so please check email regularly or
contact Karen Torry (503-359-4600 or k.torry@fgcschool.org) if you
have questions.
All Hands on Deck – FGCS needs help getting the building, grounds and
classrooms ready for the first day of school. Here are times and
ways that you can help:
Thurs., Aug. 28 and Fri., Aug. 29, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. We need
people to move classroom furniture (we have a freight elevator that
makes it easier), shelve books, pull weeds, pick up trash, take items
to the recycling center or Goodwill, and do miscellaneous other tasks.
Contact Karen Torry at 503-359-4600 or k.torry@fgcschool.org if you
can help – or just stop by.
Weds., Sept. 3 and Fri., Sept. 4, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Help art
teacher Teresa Perrin organize the art room. Call 503-359-4600 if
you'd like to let Teresa know you can help – or just show up. Electric
drills and hand tools (screwdrivers, wrenches, etc.) would be helpful.
Fri., Sept. 5 or Sat., Sept. 6 – Help parent volunteer David
Cebula get our computer lab ready for students. Please email Dave at
d.cebula@fgcschool.org to volunteer.
Pick up and Drop Off
Parents dropping off and picking up students have two options:
park and walk your student to school or use our school drive-through.
If you park nearby and walk: Please park on the street or in
one of the nearby free city lots. Please do not park in the bank or
other private business lots – your car may be towed.
If you drive through: For morning drop off, turn onto A Street
from Pacific Ave. or 19th Ave., stop at the designated spot and make
sure your student exits your car safely. Please note that there is no
supervision for students outside the school building before school
begins. Students must remain in the building once they enter, even if
class has not yet begun.
For afternoon pick up, please follow the same route. Teachers or staff
will usher students to cars. Please observe a one-way traffic flow and
do NOT attempt to pass other vehicles. If you have students dismissing
at different times, please arrive at the later time or park and walk
to pick up your student – this will minimize traffic backing up onto A
Street. Finally, please turn off your engine while you are waiting to
reduce emissions.
Questions? Contact Karen at 503-359-4600 or k.torry@fgcschool.org. A
traffic flow and parking mat will be included in the Student-Family
Handbook you'll soon receive and will be posted at our web site.
Reminders
High school students and their parents are invited to meet
teachers and discuss personalized learning plans on Tues., Sept. 2 or
Weds., Sept. 3 from 7-8:30 p.m. at school. Please come and meet our
high school team and talk about plans for the coming year. Teachers of
students in Levels 1-3 will contact parents for family visits.
School supplies lists are posted on our web site at
www.fgcschool.org
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Saturday, August 23, 2008
Fwd: FGCS News & Updates
Date: Tue, Aug 19, 2008 at 10:02 AM
Subject: FGCS News & Updates
August 14, 2008
Dear FGCS Families:
We are sorry for the delay in getting this newsletter to you. Sending
messages to our large all-school email list has proven problematic. We
are trying to solve the problem but, at this point, we are unable to
send attachments to the whole list - for that reason, school supplies
and class lists are NOT attached here. Supplies lists will be posted
on our web site at www.fgcschool.org as soon as possible, copies will
be available at school OR you can email Karen at k.torry@fgcschool.org
for an individually emailed copy. Class lists will be posted at school
OR you can call the school office at 503-359-4600 to ask about your
student's placement. Thanks for your patience and understanding as we
deal with these 'technical difficulties.'
Onto the news and updates …
Family Visits: Remember that the first week of September is devoted to
family visits – classroom teachers will contact you to schedule a time
and place to meet. If you no longer plan to enroll your student at
FGCS (or if you don't wish to receive this newsletter), please notify
the office immediately at 503-359-4600 or v.gray@fgcschool.org. We
have waiting lists for most ages and need to notify families of
openings as soon as possible. When you call or write, please provide
your student's name, your name and your email address so we can take
you off the mailing list.
School Supplies: Many of you have let us know you're eager to take
advantage of back-to-school sales. Please note that the lists are
specific to level. As you do your shopping, we encourage you to keep
in mind our school mission of stewardship. There are many 'green'
options available for many of your purchases, from notebooks
containing 100% recycled papers to 'tree-free' paper and pencils to
canvas (rather than PVC-containing vinyl) lunch bags. Sometimes (but
not always) these items cost more but, if possible, we ask you to
consider making a more sustainable purchase. Here are links to just a
couple of online resources (if you Google 'green school supplies,'
you'll get 2 million hits!):
http://cts.vresp.com/c/?ForestGroveCommunity/ff292ad7fc/5d8f77155b/3b088a8244
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Back-to-School Picnic 4-6 p.m. Sunday, August 24th at Lincoln Park
pavilions 1 and 2: Let's come together as a school community – visit
with old friends, make new ones and find out more about plans for the
school year. Please bring an entrée and salad or dessert to share –
we encourage you to take advantage of our local bounty with food from
your garden or local farmers markets if you can. Bring your own table
service (plates, cups, utensils, napkins) and a picnic blanket or
chairs. Frisbees, soccer balls and other outdoors toys would be
welcome! Iced tea and lemonade will be provided. We'll have
information about student clubs and after-school classes, as well as
volunteer opportunities at school. If you'd like to help with set up
or clean up, please contact Donna Van Dyke at d.vandyke@fgcschool.org
or 503-359-4600.
Building Update: Work continues to secure two modular classroom
buildings for our middle/high school classes. We hope and plan to have
these classrooms ready by the first day of school but have secured
temporary classrooms in local churches as a back-up plan that we hope
not to need. We will update you as more information becomes available.
If you have questions, please contact Karen Torry at
k.torry@fgcschool.org or 503-359-4600.
Schedule/Early Release Fridays - School will start at 8:50 a.m. for
all students. Level 1 students will be released Monday through
Thursday at 3:05 p.m., Levels 2 and 3 at 3:20 p.m. and Level 4 at 3:35
p.m. Please plan to pick up your student promptly at the release time;
if you are delayed for any reason, please call the office as soon as
possible. All students are released at 1:05 p.m. on Fridays.
No Lunch on Fridays: We are trying something different this year to
preserve more of our early-release Fridays for learning activities.
Rather than providing a full lunch period, we will provide a short
snack time in the morning. Please plan to send your student a healthy,
filling snack rather than a full lunch – good options include cheese,
fresh fruit and nuts.
Calendar: An eagle-eyed parent alerted us that there was an error in
the school year calendar we sent earlier this summer. The days off
circled on the calendar were all correct but the wrong dates were
listed below in one or two places. A corrected calendar has been
posted on our web site at www.fgcschool.org. Again, please note that
our calendar varies slightly from the District calendar – please
always refer to our web site for our schedule.
"Dress for Success"- At FGCS, that term means coming to school ready
for work and play that is active, often outdoors and may involve
getting wet or dirty. Student dress should be casual and comfortable.
Waterproof or water-resistant walking shoes or boots are ideal in many
settings, particularly for Out & Abouts. Students should always bring
a waterproof or water-resistant jacket to school (even if it's sunny
in the morning) because we go outside for recess and Out & About rain
or shine (OK, we might stay in if it's a torrential downpour and
definitely if there's thunder or lightening). We do keep a supply of
back-up gear on hand, but students who come to school without clothing
or footwear appropriate for the weather or activity may have to miss
out if we don't have the right item or size that day. We do not yet
have room for students to keep boots and jackets at school but
students are welcome to store these items in their backpacks in case
they are needed.
Calling All Volunteers – FGCS depends on the involvement of family and
community members to thrive. There are many opportunities to volunteer
– from supervising recess and chaperoning Out & Abouts to serving on
our technology committee or board of directors. We have a pressing
need between now and September 8th for help setting up classrooms and
getting our school buildings ready by September 8th – this could
involve moving furniture, installing shelves, clean up and
organization. To help with these tasks, please contact Karen Torry at
k.torry@fgcschool.org or 503-359-4600.
Saturday, July 19, 2008
News & Updates
Dear FGCS Families:
We hope this finds you all well and enjoying the beautiful
A quick note about this email message: We are in the process of updating our database and transferring management of the system to school staff. To try to avoid being filtered out by spam detectors, we are sending this message in several batches that may arrive at different times.
We apologize in advance to those who may receive duplicate messages or whose students are no longer enrolled at FGCS. Please bear with us as we work out the kinks in our new system and create an up-to-date address book. A million thanks to Sherie Pitt, who has volunteered countless hours over the past several years managing the database and helping us stay in contact with our community. To report problems or concerns about email communications, please contact Karen at k.torry@fgcschool.org or 503-359-4600.
Back to School Picnic
Mark your calendars! Our 2nd back-to-school picnic, this year called the Community School Local Harvest Gathering, will take place from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday, August 24th at Lincoln Park Pavilions 1 and 2 near the skate park. We’ll send details closer in time to the event, so watch your inboxes.
Supplies, Class Lists and Student-Family Handbook
School supplies lists will NOT be emailed to families this year but will be posted on our web site by the second week of August. Class lists and the updated student-family handbook will be emailed to families around the same time. The handbook will also be posted at the web site and paper copies will be available upon request.
Staff News
In addition to welcoming 70 new students this year, we are pleased to announce several additions to our teaching staff. We are fortunate to have hired well-qualified, exceptional people who are eager to be involved with your children's growth as scholars, stewards and citizens. If you have questions about teachers, please contact Vanessa Gray at v.gray@fgcschool.org or 503-359-4600. Here is a brief introduction to each of our new teachers:
Level 1 - Karen Thias is new Level 1 classroom teacher. Karen has been a classroom teacher in single-age and mixed-age elementary classrooms for more than eight years. She has strong interests in science, art, and writing, and brings those passions alive in her classroom.
Level 2 - Gretchen Ziemer, while not a new staff member, will take on a different role at the school as our new Level 2 classroom teacher. Before becoming our Out and About teacher, Gretchen had experience teaching PE, health and environmental studies. Gretchen is also enrolled in Pacific's Master of Arts in Teaching program, so she'll have the opportunity to put theory into practice in a very real way!
Level 3 - Shannon Perry has been hired as the Level 3 (7th/8th grade) language arts and social studies teacher, replacing Megan Densky, who has accepted a teaching position in
Level 4
Elizabeth Annis will teach language arts and a first-year Spanish elective to Level 4 students next year.
Rick Boudreau, who served as a Level 3 instructional assistant this year, will put his varied talents and experiences to work teaching PE to all classes and teaching civics and economics courses for Level 4 students. Rick, who has a graduate degree in political science, has been a journalist and worked with international, non-governmental organizations. He is also a former tennis instructor and competes regionally.
Brook Waldman will teach high school Algebra and Geometry, with an emphasis on applied skills, drawing on Brook’s varied background, which includes teaching math and science, outdoor education and construction. Brook, who is working on his master’s degree in teaching, may be the only person you’ll ever meet who holds a certificate in bamboo building and lists cardboard furniture construction alongside welding, pottery and cooking under ‘other skills’ on his resume.
Rochelle Auran will teach high school biology. Rochelle holds a graduate degree in zoology, has taught college-level biology and has 20 years’ experience working in professional laboratories.
School Schedule
Background: As most of you know, we earlier announced plans to begin the school day at 8 a.m. rather than 8:50 in the coming school year. This change was suggested in response to desire expressed by some families for an earlier release that would make it easier for their middle and high school students to participate in after-school district sports and activities. Because this represented a significant schedule change, our Board of Directors took the matter under advisement and sought input from the school community through our web site feedback page. A synopsis of that feedback will be posted on the web site soon. After reviewing the matter, the Board decided to maintain the daily schedule we used this past year. The Board stated that it will continue to study the matter and may consider schedule changes at a later date. Please contact board chair Terry O’Day at t.oday@fgcschool.org with any questions about the Board’s decision.
Schedule: School will begin for all students at 8:50 a.m. School doors will open at 8:35 and students should be in their classrooms, ready to go by 8:50.
Dismissal times will be as follows:
Level 1: 3:05 p.m.
Levels 2& 3: 3:20 p.m. (please note this is a change for Level 3)
Level 4: 3:35 p.m.
School Calendar
The first day of school for FGCS is Monday, September 8. A complete school calendar is attached. If you have trouble opening or printing this document, you can pick up a copy in the school office. Please note: Although we follow the District calendar in most respects, we have some days off when other District schools are in session and are in school on some days when other District schools are closed. Our calendar will be posted on the school’s web site: www.fgcschool.org and will be regularly updated with special events. For questions about the calendar, please contact Vanessa at v.gray@fgcschool.org.
Facilities Update
As many of you know, we learned shortly before the end of the school year that our landlord was unable to proceed with plans to renovate the third floor of our building to add new classrooms because the project was simply too expensive. We are now planning to construct a second school building on site, while continuing to occupy two floors of our current building. Planning and construction of the new building will take one to two years but will ultimately result in a beautiful, functional school campus.
Meanwhile, here is how we are making room for our three new classrooms. We plan to place two modular classroom buildings on the property to house our Level 3 (7th/8th) and Level 4 (9th/10th) classrooms. These buildings each have two 850-square-foot classrooms and will be completely refurbished with new paint, flooring and extra windows. Although they won’t have the character of our current building, they will be large, comfortable spaces. Placing the modular classrooms requires a city permit, for which we have applied; a hearing is set for Monday, August 4 at the Community Auditorium. The FGCS Board has approved hiring an architect to provide technical support on this project.
In our current building, there will be some changes, too. Karen Thias, our new Level 1 teacher, will move into Veronica’s old room while Veronica and Gretchen, our new Level 2 teacher, will move into the downstairs classrooms. Sherry, Rachel and Charlie all will remain in their same classrooms. This interim plan is intended to keep our whole school community in close proximity and keep all classes in a level in the same building while we make permanent plans for the future. If you have any questions about facilities issues, please contact Karen at k.torry@fgcschool.org.
Volunteer Opportunities
FGCS is a school created by volunteers and are ongoing success depends on the strong support of parents, friends and community volunteers. Here are just a few ways you can help:
The downstairs classrooms will get a fresh coat of colorful paint over the summer, so please contact Gretchen (g.ziemer@fgcschool.org) or Veronica v.dolby@fgcschool.org) if you’d like to join the paint crews. We will also need volunteer help setting up the modular classrooms, assembling classroom tables, hanging bulletin boards and doing other tasks to get our facilities ready for students. If you’d like to be notified about work days, please send your contact information to Karen at k.torry@fgcschool (or leave a voice mail at 503-359-4600).
We also have an immediate need to develop a core of volunteers able to help with computer and other technology issues. We have a small core of extremely talented, hardworking volunteers who help in this area, but we need a larger group as our school grows. Specifically, we need people to contact local businesses and organizations who may have computers to donate, to pick up those donations, to upgrade systems, install software and install desktops and printers in classrooms. Tech-minded students are more than welcome! To help in this way, please contact Karen at k.torry@fgcschool.org.
Our intrepid fundraising work group can also use more volunteers to help with Pizza Wednesdays, Scholastics book fairs and other efforts. Please contact Misty Lewis at semile@verizon.net.
Unlike other public schools, FGCS depends on volunteer help to supervise lunch times and recess to allow teachers to take a short break during the school day. Helping out at lunch and recess is a great way to get to know students and it provides a tremendous support to our hardworking teachers. To volunteer at recess or lunch, contact Vickie Jares at v.jares@fgcschool.org.
