September-October+2010+Newsletter

** Van Meter Elementary **
 * September/October Newsletter **


 * Dear Parents, **


 * Welcome back to another great year at Van Meter Elementary. We hope that students had a wonderful summer and are ready for an exciting year of learning at Van Meter Schools. **


 * Our custodial staff worked hard this summer to get the school ready for students and staff. I hope that you noticed how shiny and bright our school looked on the first day of school. Our teachers also work hard during the summer. They take classes, attend workshops, develop curriculum and spend many hours in their classrooms. **


 * During inservice days at the beginning of the school year, the elementary staff learned about how to develop Personal Learning Communities (PLCs). Each teacher and administrator will be part of a PLC group. We will spend the first semester learning about Personal Learning Communities and the second semester implementing PLC goals focusing on student achievement. **


 * A team of elementary teachers attended workshops last year and developed a plan to implement Positive Behavior Instructional Supports program (PBIS). The focus of PBIS is to teach and reward positive behaviors. You may hear your children speak about the recognition students receive for exhibiting positive behaviors at school. Other programs being implemented in the elementary include Daily Five, which emphasizes authentic reading experiences and CAB Science, which teaches inquiry-based science strategies. **


 * Each year I remind parents about the many ways that they can support our school. The Van Meter Elementary Parents Committee provides tremendous support for many programs. The first VMEPC meeting is September 16, at 7:00 in the Cafeteria. The Van Meter Educational Foundation provides district-wide support and has been instrumental in the development of school facilities and equipment. The Helping Hands give direct assistance to teachers by preparing materials for the classroom. They meet every Thursday morning. Please contact the Elementary Office for further information on any of these volunteer opportunities. **


 * The attached School Update has important information and calendar of events. Please sign the slip letting us know that you have read the Elementary Newsletter. We appreciate your continued support and look forward to working together to make this a tremendous year for students at Van Meter Elementary. **


 * Sincerely, **


 * Dr. Maribeth Arentsen **
 * Elementary Principal **


 * Please see attached information on the School of Character Award given to Van Meter Elementary. Additional information includes new dismissal procedure for walkers. **