PPES News: Project Gold!

Dear Parents,

Here's your update for the week!

1. You may have noticed our new student service program for 5th and 6th graders that we call "PROJECT GOLD." (Growing Outstanding Leaders Division) These students went through a rigorous interview process that included training and resume building to emerge as school leaders. They are supporting us in the office ("Pinnacle Peak Elementary School, student speaking!" is their phone greeting!), on the kindergarten playground, the library, and a handful are serving as playground equipment managers and technology support. They began training this past week and are learning quickly. We appreciate your patience and support as they get up to speed, but we could not be more impressed with their character, dedication, and sense of community. A special thanks for Mrs. Brunsman and Mrs. Romney for helping to see this idea to fruition. There will be much more to come on PROJECT: GOLD!
2. I had a great question from a parent about Accelerated Reader and realized it hasn't been a topic of late. Thus, I wanted to revisit the school's stance on the program. In essence, it is teachers' discretion whether or not they wish to use it to support their reading program. I found, as a teacher, that it was a motivator for some students, and a nuisance for others. So, it is important teachers get this flexibility. My expectation, however, is that any student who wishes to use AR has the opportunity. Thus, the library is poised to support test taking and book recommendations at any time!
3. Last, I will keep you posted on the solar project. However, as soon as it clears the permit process in the coming weeks, it will begin. For about six weeks, we will have a significant parking challenges and we are going to be launching an intensive car pooling (and other alternatives!) campaign in which we hope most of you will be involved. Certainly, there is more to come, but start loosening up those phone dialing fingers, now. It soon will be time to find some transportation buddies!

That's all for now. Thanks for your support of our Yellow Wednesdays, which demonstrate anti-bullying awareness. We've had amazing success due to Student Council's efforts. Can't wait to see all the yellow this week. Also, Mr. Hicks returns this week, so we're excited to see him sporting the color. He's probably looking for a yellow Toronto Maple Leafs shirt as I speak. :)

Enjoy the rest of your Sunday.

Mike