CHIPMUNK COURIER
Chesterbrook Elementary School PTA Digest
2015-2016 Edition #15
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 Holiday Shopping, Amazon and Chesterbrook
 
Holiday Shopping? If so, don't forget to use the Chesterbrook Amazon link when making your online purchases. Amazon.com will contribute 2 - 10% of EVERY item sold (including downloads) to Chesterbrook PTA.  In addition, the more items ordered and shipped, the higher the percentage we earn each month!  It's easy money on money you are already spending. Just visit the PTA website and click on the Amazon link. 
 
Remember to use this PTA Amazon link BEFORE adding items to your cart, including items in your wish list.
Please bookmark or add to this link to your favorites:PTA Amazon Link
FCPS Funding Update

As has been shared by Dr. Garza, FCPS is facing a $50- $75 million deficit for the next school year and significant cuts are under consideration. The Budget Task Force has released its report, available for review click to view budget . In addition, a 5 minute video presentation on the budget process is also available to review click here to view video. 
 
A non-partisan, grassroots organization named #IAMFCPS has created a website and Facebook page with detailed information for citizens interested taking action to support the full funding of FCPS.  Interested parties can support their petition (click here to sign petition) and can write to elected officials (click here to write officials) 
 
Additional information on #IAMFCPS is available on the #IAMFCPS Facebook Page and inquiries can be directed to iamfcps@gmail.com. 
 
Holiday Treats for Staff

On Tuesday, December 15th, the PTA will provide a holiday breakfast for the staff and faculty to show our appreciation for all that they do for our school.  If you are interested in providing a dish, beverages, or sweet treat for this event, please sign up here.

If you have any questions regarding this event please email Amanda Abraham.  Thank you in advance for your help and participation!
Before/After School Activity Registration Opens Dec. 14th at 7:00 pm  

The fall session of our Before and After School Activities were more popular than ever.  The winter session will begin the week of January 11th and registration opens Friday, December 14th.  Classes include popular favorites and some exciting new opportunities, too. 

*Does registration get you anxious?  Did you know that parent coordinators are guaranteed one (1) spot for one of their children in the class they chair?  We continue to be woefully understaffed with parent volunteers.  One parent volunteer coordinator per class is needed in order for this program to continue.  Please email Wendy Cumberland if you are willing to serve. 

Activities for the Winter Session include:  Art Brains, Chess Club, Computer & Coding Club: Python Programming, Computer & Coding Club: Electronics with Minecraft Redstone, Computer & Coding Club: Minecraft Modding, Fitness Warriors, Guitar Club, Zumba and more!  

Additional information is available on the PTA website here.
Important Dates

December 14 - Before/After School Activity Registration Opens, 7:00pm
December 15 - Holiday Treats for Staff
December 18 - Two hour early release
December 19 - January 3 - Winter Break
In Case You Missed It
  • Register your Grocery Cards here.
  • Spirit Wear is now available for purchase. Buy here.
  • Don't Forget to Clip Box Tops!
  • Use our Amazon site when making purchases to help the school. Click here to access the site.
  • Join the PTA here.
  • Become a Family Friend of the PTA here.
  • Become a Business Friend of the PTA here.
Friends of Chesterbrook

Your donations help support the following PTA programs:
  • Student Support including updated technology (iPads and laptops), STEM programs, grade-wide grants (GRECO/Colonial Days, Science Fair), field trips, as well as PE, art and music equipment.
  • School Support including staff development, teacher stipends, classroom materials (WordMasters, etc.), media center support, and capital expenditures (new common area furniture and whiteboards).
  • Enrichment Programs including cultural arts and science appreciation assemblies, family fun events such as The Brain Show, health and wellness programs, International Night and the Discovery Gardens.
To join or find out more about the Friends programs:
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