Welcome Back!
Dear VFMS Families
Welcome to the 2015-16 school year, one that I hope will be filled with plenty of learning, accomplishments, fun and friendships. For me that is what school should
be all about. The VFMS PTO supports Matt Gibson and his wonderful team in as many ways as we can and we are always on the look out for new ideas and initiatives. We also need the help of you, the parents, to make this support possible.
Over the past few years, as a result of feedback we received, we have reduced the number of fundraising activities we organize in favour of a direct donations programme and a concentration on fewer events which will really benefit our
children. We hope that this eliminates a lot of pressure for parents and students alike. We are working with Mr Gibson to identify the best ways to use the money we raise from direct donations. In the past we have bought iPads and accessories and I would like to share some of the feedback we received, below:
"Thank you for the funds for the iPads. In science class we have used them for research. They worked well because there is no time taken for network connecting and they are so mobile. In social studies we made news trailers for current events."
Students also used iMovie to create videos about various topics related to our studies of Russia. The iPads and apps like iMovie are natural motivators due to the high interest level of students. They are always excited to use them and in this case were able to choose a topic related to a personal interest.
Also, I have found a couple students that typically struggle with direct classroom instruction have been able to shine with iPad projects, boosting their motivation and confidence. We will continue to use them well." Jeff Eickhoff, 6th Grade Science Teacher
We know that the first couple of weeks of the new school year are always challenging as everybody settles into their new routine but please do take a moment to look at the PTO website which contains important information and also links through to many informative websites. If you are not receiving the PTO blast, which comes out every Sunday afternoon, please sign up on the website. We are looking for volunteers to assist with health screenings on Wednesday September 9th (more information below) and for parent chaperones for the 7th and 8th Grade Welcome Back Dance on Friday September 18th. We are also hoping to participate in Walk to School Day in October and would be very happy to hear from any parents who would be interested in helping to organize this.
5th and 6th Grade Curriculum Night will be held on Tuesday September 8th and 7th and 8th Grade Curriculum Night the following evening, Wednesday September 9th both starting at 6:50pm. We encourage you to attend. Meet the Principal Coffees for all grades will take place in January/February 2016.
I look forward to seeing familiar faces and meeting new ones at VFMS. Please do not hesitate to contact me at president@vfmspto.org with any questions or suggestions.
Sarah Culbert, VFMS PTO President 2015-16
nt Directory! 
