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We create and maintain a safe and consistent learning community by establishing positive behavioral supports and a culture where all students achieve social, emotional and academic success.
In this issue:
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Principal’s Message
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Dates to Remember
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Counselor Corner
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In the Know
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District Information
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PTSA Information
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Hello Fernwood Families,
It is hard to believe this school year is coming to a close. This has certainly been a year of change and growth not only for our students but for our whole Fernwood learning community. When we set our theme this year to Make Learning Loud, we had little idea just how loud it would ring. Reflecting on the experiences of this past year, I am inspired and excited to think about the possibilities for next year, especially in partnership with families and PTSA. Through PTSA sponsorship, we were able to host community events such as the Glow Dance, Science Fair and the Spelling Bee. We also had our Multicultural night that celebrated and honored the diverse cultures and heritages making up our Fernwood community.
These are just a few of the bigger events that took place this year in our students' learning. There was also so much excitement in the classroom learning that took place over the year. Classes were able to go on field trips to enrich their studies, visiting Olympia, the Oxbow Farm, the Bothell Landing and of course fifth grade’s outdoor education at Camp Cedar Springs. In the classroom, teachers cultivated learning environments that fostered student collaboration with one another, learning to be critical thinkers and honoring one another’s strengths while giving space for individual growth. I am inspired by the students as they demonstrate leadership, empathy for one another, perseverance through challenges and resilience as learners. Our educators’ dedication to students, modeling and guiding students in their social-emotional and academic growth truly Make Learning Loud.
I want to thank the Fernwood community for your support over these last few months. As Fernwood experienced the transition in leadership, and I became Principal, the community’s support had a meaningful impact on all of us. Your words of encouragement, support, and appreciation contributed to such a feeling of belonging, which is what makes Fernwood special and is a source of pride. Thank you for your partnership and ongoing support of our staff and students.
Celebrating our Staff Moving On
In thinking about wrapping up the year, we are so fortunate to have a dedicated staff who care deeply about our students’ individual, social-emotional, and academic needs. As we near the conclusion of the 2023-24 school year, it is important we acknowledge those staff that will not be returning next year so students and families can share their goodbyes. As students begin the 24-25 school year, the staff named below will be retiring, returning to work at another school, or moving on to a new journey in education.
Megan Moyer- 1st Grade Teacher
Megan Moyer has been a 1st grade teacher at Fernwood for many years, touching the hearts of hundreds of children and their families. The experiences Megan and her 1st grade team have created for students will last in students’ memories for years to come. Megan will be able to now enjoy a slower pace, travel and, she assures us, still volunteer at Fernwood.
Lena Panescu Reich- 2nd Grade Teacher
Lena Panescu-Reich first joined Fernwood as a 1st grade teacher last year then moved to 2nd grade this year. Lena shares how her students inspire and always amaze her in their learning. It has been wonderful to have Lena as part of our Fernwood community. Lena will be continuing her teaching in a private school, outside the Northshore School District.
Kari Hopper- 4th Grade Teacher
Kari Hopper has been part of Fernwood for the last few years. In that time, she has taught 3rd grade EAP, 5th Grade EAP and 4th grade. No matter the teaching assignment, Kari teaches with dedication and commitment to student success. Kari will be continuing her teaching career in a private school outside the Northshore School District.
Kyle Redmon- 5th Grade Teacher
Kyle Redmon has been a 4th and 5th grade EAP teacher at Fernwood. He has made an impact on his students and staff as he teaches from the heart and creates a culture of learning in which students thrive. Kyle and his family will be moving, where his young daughters will be able to grow up closer to his extended family.
Arpie Cort- English Language Development Teacher
Arpie Cort has been our ELD teacher at Fernwood for several years. She has taught with a passion for student learning and language development. Arpie connects with her students in special ways and always is sensitive to the needs of her students. Arpie will now be able to take time to pursue her writing and continue to make an impact on young readers.
Iza Alcorn- PE Teacher
Iza Alcorn joined Fernwood as a part time PE teacher three years ago. During that time, Iza found ways to build relationships with her students while teaching the skills of gross motor development. Iza also provided valuable substitute support for the classroom teachers at Fernwood. Iza will be continuing on in her career in education and we know will make a difference to her students.
Mike Shumate- PE Teacher
Mike Shumate has also been a part time PE teacher at Fernwood for the last two years. He is a thoughtful and caring educator who finds meaningful ways to connect with students and families. Whether it is in class doing warm ups, or at dismissal calling out student names in the car pickup lane, Mike is ready with a warm smile and a quick “How are you”. Mike will continue to impact students through his career in teaching.
Teri Hall- School Assistant
Teri Hall has been a school assistant at Fernwood for many years. She has spent lunch times with our students, supervised recess and supported staff in so many ways both behind the scenes of the classroom and in the classroom. Teri will now be able to relax in retirement and find some new hobbies to enjoy, especially with her grandchildren.
Korry Brehm- School Assistant
Korry Brehm has also supported Fernwood students and staff for many years, both in the lunchroom, at recess as students play and within classrooms. As Korry explores opportunities in her next journey, she will be able to focus on family and interests that will lead to new endeavors.
As teachers, students, or families move on from Fernwood, they still remain a part of our community by the imprint they have left in our lives and hearts. Our Panther Pride extends beyond our school walls and we hope it remains a piece of each individual that has come across our campus.
With appreciation,
Cassie Morton, Principal
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JUNE
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Date |
Event |
Location |
Time |
| 6/7 | Volunteer Appreciation | B138 | 9:30-10:30am |
| 6/11 | Incoming Kindergarten Night | Cafeteria/Classes | 5:30-7:00pm |
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6/11 |
PTSA General Meeting - Celebration |
Library |
7:00-8:00pm |
| 6/12 | NCHS Senior Walk @ Fernwood | ||
| 6/13 | School BBQ Mix it Up | Cafeteria | |
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6/19 |
No School - Juneteenth Observed |
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6/21 |
5th Grade Celebration |
Gym/Cafeteria |
2:00-3:30pm |
| 6/24 | Field Day | ||
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6/25 |
Last Day of School |
Dismissal @ 11:50am |
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| 6/28 | Report Cards Viewable in Parent Vue | ||
| 6/28 | Lost and Found Donated |
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For the month of June students K - 4th grade will have an optional class meeting with their counselor. This lesson will follow a class meeting format and will focus upon students processing the mixed feelings that can be typical for students as they near the end of the school year, which can be a challenge.
Students will also be given the opportunity to reflect upon the year as well as articulate what they are looking forward to this coming summer. We want students to know that while the end of the school year brings about change, they have adults that will always care about them. And as we head into the summer, we will encourage students to take care of themselves, practicing self-care, following healthy habits, and seeking out activities they enjoy.
5th graders will have their June lesson with a focus upon their exciting transition to middle school. They will have the opportunity to share aloud any worries they may have, getting those persistent questions answered, and explore what about middle school they are looking forward to.
And also in the month of June, we school counselors would like to share data with you about our school counseling program to give you a better picture of what made up the FW school counseling program this school year. We strive to keep our program relevant and integral to the student experience. As you know, our direct service to students includes whole groups (via classroom lessons, for example), in small groups, and 1:1. Below you can find a snapshot of how many lessons, groups, and student requests took place this school year.
FWE’s School Counselor Program (Direct Student Service Summary):
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Tier 1 (All Students/Whole Group) |
Over 240 classroom lessons; 66 Lunch Bunch Meetings (serving all of FW’s students) 36 class meetings; & 32 mini-lessons via weekly morning announcements. |
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Tier 2 (Some Students) |
53 different small groups, spanning 3-6 weeks each (topics including newcomer to school, friendships, problem-solving, emotional & self-regulation, and being worry-wise) |
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Tier 3 (Student Requests & as needed on-going support) |
Over 232 and still counting! |
We believe this direct service data shows that school counselors are taking an active role in the FWE student experience!
Lastly, below you will find additional resources that are pertinent to this time of year:
Resources:
Child Development & Positive Parenting
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services
Keep Your Child Safe: Summer Tips
Link to Last June’s Counselor Corner (Corporal Punishment Info for Parents)
If you have any questions or would like to request any additional support for your student, please do not hesitate to reach out! We are here for your student’s success!
Best Regards,
Jennifer Brisbine (Grades K, 2, & 4) jbrisbine@nsd.org and 425-408-4570
Sarah Cue (Grades 1, 3, & 5) scue@nsd.org and 425-408-4572
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End of Year Dates
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Tuesday, June 11th - Safety Patrol Field Trip
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Wednesday, June 12th - NCHS Senior Walk @ Fernwood
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Thursday, June 13th - School BBQ
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Thursday, June 13th - Lipdub 2:00-3:00pm
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Wednesday, June 19th - No School
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Thursday, June 20th - 5th Grade Field - Trip 9:45-2:30pm
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Friday, June 21st - Yearbook Distribution
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Friday, June 21st - 5th Grade Celebration - 2:00-3:45pm
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Monday, June 24th - PTSA to Sell Yearbooks - Limited Quantities
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Monday, June 24th - Field Day
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Tuesday, June 25th - Last Day of School, Dismissal @ 11:50am
Volunteer Appreciation
Our volunteers do so much to support our partnership around carrying out our school’s mission. We will be holding a Volunteer Appreciation Celebration on Friday, June 7th to honor those that have provided ongoing support for us this school year. Specific invitations with more details will be emailed to our volunteers.
North Creek High School Senior Walk
On June 12th, between 1:50 and 2:10 pm, graduating seniors from North Creek High School will conduct a Senior Parade through Fernwood. Graduating seniors often reflect on their elementary years as a mark of how much they have grown and the impact that their early education had on them. The parade will create an opportunity for seniors, who graduated from Fernwood, to return and see past teachers. For our students, seeing seniors as they complete their education in K-12 can be motivation for their own hard work and provide a glimpse of where they are headed. We want to encourage and congratulate those seniors for their accomplishments. Seniors will be walking through campus between 1:50 and 2:10 pm in parade style. Classes will be lining the walkway to cheer them on as they pass through.
Fernwood BBQ Lunch
Thank you to NSD Food Services for offering to provide a special BBQ Lunch! On June 13th, we will be having a special Mix It Up BBQ lunch for students only. Please use the QR code on the flyer to order a lunch for this day. This is the ONLY option for a school lunch this day. In the spirit of building community, we are inviting students to sit with other students in their lunch time, not just in their class.
Field Day
Students will be able to participate in Field Day on Monday, June 24th. Field Day is a chance for students to engage in fun and safe activities as a celebration for all their effort and hard work over the course of the year. The schedule will be shared, along with ways volunteers can participate, once details have been finalized.
Items to Bring
Students may get wet! They can wear a swimsuit under their clothes. No stomachs can show. Please make sure to have your child wear closed-toed shoes. All students may also bring a towel.
Color Day
Students can wear the color below to represent their grade level:
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Kindergarten: Yellow
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1st Grade: Green
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2nd Grade: Purple
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3rd Grade: Blue
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4th Grade: Red
- 5th Grade: Pink
Volunteers
We are in need of 30-40 volunteers for each section of Field Day. Please watch for a sign up document to come out soon!
Medications and Medication Pick Up
Medications your child may have leftover at school will need to get home in a safe manner. Please make arrangements to pick up any medication(s) at school (call or email nurse to schedule a time for pickup).
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Any medications left at Fernwood after Tuesday, June 25th at 1:00 pm will be destroyed (includes emergency medications for seizures, diabetes, EPI Pens, as well as daily and as needed medications).
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Please note that medications cannot go home with students and will need to be picked up by an adult (ADHD, seizure medications, etc).
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Please pick up as needed medication that is not considered a rescue medication by June 21st and rescue medications at the end of the last day your student will be attending school. You can pick up medication from 8:50 AM- 3:50 PM. Contact the school nurse if other pickup arrangements need to be made.
If your child needs to take medication during school hours next year, please have your healthcare provider complete a Medication Authorization Form before school starts in the fall. Bring the completed medication authorization and medication in a properly labeled, original container when school begins in the fall. Forms are available on Fernwood and District websites.
Life - Threatening conditions:
Please review this link if your student has a life threatening condition: https://www.nsd.org/schools/get-started/health-services/students-with-life-threatening-conditions. Students who have Life Threatening Conditions will need to make plans over the summer to have Emergency Medications with physician’s orders at school and ready before the first day of school. For students with preexisting life-threatening conditions, you can receive the packet containing required paperwork when you pick up their rescue medication from the health room. Please contact the school nurse if you need assistance with forms or have questions. (425-408-4506)
Report Cards
Report cards will be viewable in Parent Vue on June 28th. The information within the report card is more robust as compared to your child’s progress report from the fall. For assistance in understanding the scores provided, please see review the following documents based on your child’s grade level:
Class Placements for 2024-25
Student classroom placements will be sent out in late August through ParentVUE. You will be notified when this information is available.
LOST AND FOUND
It’s that time of year when our students come to school with coats on but by the afternoon it's too warm to wear them and they get left on the playground! Our lost and found racks are starting to fill up! If you notice a coat or sweatshirt is missing, please have your students check the lost and found collection located by the gym foyer. Any items that are not claimed by noon on June 28th will be donated to charity!
Community Serve Day at Fernwood
Join us on Sunday, August 25th for Community Serve Day! This one day, thousands of volunteers at 30 local schools will gather to help them prepare for the first day of school. CSD volunteers will help teachers organize their classrooms, spruce up the school landscaping and prep the playgrounds for students. This is a community event, so invite your friends, family and neighbors to join you on Sunday, August 25 from 9am-1pm to volunteer at Community Serve Day 2024.
Registration for volunteers to sign up for Community Serve Day is now open. Registration can be found at Communityserveday.org. Questions? Contact your school site leader, Kristie McVay kmcvay@nsd.org, or email the CSD Team.
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BACKPACKS FOR KIDS - sign up!
The Northshore Schools Foundation (NSF) is gearing up for their annual Backpacks for Kids school supply drive this August. The past few years, NSF has done a one-day, centralized distribution at Pop Keeney. Unfortunately, their staffing numbers have changed, and they are unable to put together a large distribution event this year. Families instead pick up their backpacks at the school that they will be attending in 2024-2025.
Below is the registration form that families must fill out in order to receive a backpack full of supplies. Office staff at the school will be given a list of students and grades who are registered to receive a backpack. Students not on the list will not be able to pick up a backpack during the distribution days. Backpack Registration Form 2024: https://forms.office.com/r/vQ28mNZjik
If you have any questions, please contact the Fernwood Care Team liaison, Kristie McVay at kmcvay@nsd.org / 425.408.4532
Know Someone That Will Be New to Northshore Next Year?
Enrollment is open for the 2024-25 school year for all grade levels, including kindergarten. Please visit the NSD website for full enrollment information for all grades.
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PTSA Meeting:
The month’s PTSA meeting will be on Tuesday, June 11th at 7:00pm in the Fernwood Library. We will showcase the school year's artwork by our wonderful art docents, hear from the construction team regarding construction plans, and meet some of our new PTSA board members.
Join the Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82931673151 Meeting ID: 829 3167 3151
On behalf of the Fernwood PTSA Board of Directors: we hope to see you there.
Yearbook Distribution – June 21st!
The 2023-2024 Fernwood Elementary School yearbooks will be distributed on Friday, June 21st to students who ordered by the April 1st deadline. Yearbooks will be distributed in class, by classroom teachers.
For any students who did not order a yearbook but would still like to purchase one, the yearbook committee will sell a VERY limited number of remaining yearbooks for $40 CASH ONLY (exact change) on Monday, June 24th at 8:30am, on a first come, first served basis until all yearbooks have been sold. Cash sales will take place in front of the Fernwood gymnasium, in person only. Questions can be directed to fernwoodyearbook@gmail.com.
5th Grade Celebration - Limited Space
To all 5th grade parents, you are invited to the 2023-24 5th Grade Ceremony & Celebration! As our 5th grade students take flight into a new chapter of their lives, they leave behind fond memories of friendships, fun and experiences. Please help them celebrate by attending the annual 5th Grade Ceremony and Celebration on the following day and time:
Date: Friday, June 21st.
Time: 2:10 - 3:30 p.m. (split between ceremony and celebration)
Ceremony: 2:10 - 3 p.m.
Celebration: 3:05 - 3:30 p.m.
Locations: Ceremony: Gym, Celebration: Cafeteria
Due to limited space, we ask that attendance is reserved for immediate family only, with TWO per family, INCLUDING a sibling. To help us ensure we have adequate space, please RSVP by clicking on this link.
Reach out to nannanptsa@gmail.com for questions. We are excited to celebrate with you!
- The 5th Grade Teachers and the Fernwood PTSA 5th Grade Celebration Team
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PAST NEWSLETTERS AND WEEKLY UPDATES
- Link - Follow this link to Fernwood's past newsletters for the 23-24 School Year.
- QR Code
