Thursday Folder
1/17/13

From the Desk of Mr. G 

Our recent parent seminar, Social Media 101, generated rave reviews!  Parents walked away with strategies they could implement right away to support student use of technology in responsible ways.  If you were not able to join us last Thursday evening, here's a link to a "MUST SEE" website: 

 

http://wayzata.k12.mn.us/Page/13863 

 

If you click on the link and review the tabs on the left side of the webpage you will find a Top Ten link, as well as practical information about screen time and social networking.  I'd suggest dedicating at least 15 protected minutes to review the website and then commit to following-up and implementing 2-3 ideas.  I also have a few DVDs ready from the first portion of the Social Media parent seminar.  Please contact me if you'd like to check one of those out.

 

Please join us for the next session (to be held during the school day to be inclusive of those that missed the evening opportunity):

 

MyWay & iPads: A Hands-On Parent Seminar

Thursday, February 7th

8:30-10:45 a.m. in the Media Center

Learn key elements of the district's iPad roll-out and how student learning will continue to take center stage.  Important information that parents should know about digital citizenship and supporting students technology fluency and safety will also be provided.  Parents will be interacting first-hand with the session content using the school's iPads. 

 

Kind Regards,

Mr. Brad Gustafson, Principal

New practice MCA test for 3-8th Grade

Dear 3rd - 8th Grade Parents,

 

In January and February, all Wayzata Public Schools students in grades 3-8 will take the Optional Local Purpose Assessment (OLPA) in mathematics. The OLPA is a new for 2012-13. It is provided by the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) as a practice test for the MCA-III Mathematics Online assessment. It uses Minnesota-specific items and provides test results to teachers on student performance that can be used to target instruction and/or plan for additional supports before the MCA-III Mathematics Online test in April. Because the OLPA test is intended for practice and teacher instructional planning only, students will not receive an individual score report of their OLPA performance. If you have questions about the OLPA test and how teachers are using the information for instructional planning, please contact your child's teacher or building principal.

 

Sincerely,

Stacey Lackner, Ph.D.

Director of Research and Evaluation

Wayzata Public Schools  

KICKS to hold food drive 

KICKS (Kids in Community Kare & Service) is sponsoring a food drive for the entire Greenwood Community.  For a student message about how you can get involved, click HERE

Read-a-thon volunteers needed

Volunteers are needed for Greenwood's Read-a-thon. The event runs throughout the month of February.  Those interested are asked to commit an hour or two each week.   A brief informational meeting will be held at 9:30 am Friday, January 18, at the Medina Caribou (by Target). If you are unable to make the meeting, please contact Ann Ciardelli at annciardelli@gmail.com

Skate with the Trojans

The Wayzata Girls High School Hockey Team invite the public to skate with them on January 21, from 1-2 pm at the Plymouth Ice Arena.  Participants are invited to stay for poster signing and pizza from 2-3 pm.  This event is free.  All skaters must wear helments.  Knee and elbow pads are recommended. 

Worth Repeating

PTA Grant Committee Formed  

The PTA has formed a grant committee to consider proposals for funds to improve our school.  This process is open to teachers and staff as well as parents.  If you have an idea that would require funding please consider applying.  Please click here for more information and the application form.

We are in need of four PTA parent members and three Greenwood teachers/staff to serve on the grant committee.  It has the important work of reviewing and approving requests.  We expect to complete the process in two 1-2 hour meetings.  If you are interested or have questions, please email PTA Vice-President, Amy Albert at
 amy.albert@yahoo.com or 612-386-9351.   

What's Happening in Community Education 

Winter and Spring WISHES classes are now open for registration!  To browse class offerings and register, visit www.ceregistration.wayzata.k12.mn.us .
  • Kung Fu classes starting soon!  Join a fun non-competitive, full participation Kung Fu class that focuses on developing leadership, discipline, concentration and coordination skills for a healthy mind and body. Improve your coordination, strength, flexibility and endurance.  Parents: don't just sit on the sideline! Register and participate with your child in class.
  • MathWiz Enrichment - For advanced math students.  The MathWiz program helps students develop problem solving skills and prepares them for math competitions.
  • Extreme Legos - Helicopters and Spy Planes - Build a helicopter, egg beater, paddle boat and spy plane.  Use your projects to investigate basic engineering concepts.
  • Project Runway - Learn hand stitching and sewing machine techniques in this fun hands-on class.  Sew your own Valentines or Spring Flower pillowcase and take it home!
  • Fencing - Try the exciting and growing sport of fencing!  New and returning fencers invited! 
  • Super Hero Film School - Batman, Superman, Spiderman or Wonder Women!  Pick your favorite characters to star in your own mini movie.
  • Art Classes Galore!  Explore your creative side in Carnival Days Drawing Class, Angry Birds Art Class or Art Studio 2.
  • Join us for Young Scientist Roundtable on January 8 at 7:00 pm at Central Middle School for "Exploring Great Mysteries About Prime Numbers." 
  • Mark your calendars for the 17th Annual Parenting Forum on Saturday, February 2 at Central Middle School 8:30 am - 12:30 pm. 
Lunch Menu

To view January's lunch menu, click HERE.  

Events
January 21 - No School

January 25 - No School

February 2 - Parenting Forum and Marketplace

February 7 - MyWay & iPads: A Hands-On Parent Seminar
Sincerely,
Greenwood Elementary



Greenwood Elementary
18005 Medina Road, Plymouth, MN 55446-2919
Phone: 763-745-5500 Fax: 763-745-5591  


Connect WITH THE US  Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter