Weekly Update February 10th, 2025

Toro Families,

                I hope this newsletter finds you well!  As we move through February, we have a lot of exciting things happening here at school. This week's newsletter is full of important information, from upcoming events like our SAC meeting and spring photos, to reminders about school breaks and Valentine's Day celebrations. I encourage you to take a few minutes to read through it all – there's something for everyone!  We're looking forward to a great week and, as always, appreciate your partnership in making our school community so special.

Warm Regards,

Ken Kirk

Principal

Upcoming Events & Important Information

• School Advisory Committee (SAC). Parents are invited to attend the third quarterly School Advisory Committee (SAC) meeting on February 11th at 1500 in the library. The SAC is a group of elected parents and full-time school employees committed to partnering with the principal to provide valuable insight on educational programs, resources, services, and policies. Your input is important! Questions, feedback, or comments can also be submitted anonymously through this link: https://forms.office.com/r/ykQajcW4yk
• No School: February 14th-18th. Please note that there will be no school from February 14th through the 18th. This break includes President's Day and a scheduled In-Service Training day for teachers. Students will return to school on Tuesday, February 19th.
• Spring Photos Alert! 📸 Get ready for picture-perfect moments! Spring photos will be held on February 24th for 1st and 3rd graders, February 25th for 2nd, 4th graders, and PSCD students, and February 26th for our PreK and Kindergarten kids. Make sure your child is dressed to impress and ready to shine! 🌟
• Valentine's Day Classroom Celebrations. As Valentine's Day approaches, we want to ensure a balanced approach in our classrooms, respecting instructional time while allowing for some festive engagement. Our priority remains a productive learning environment. For specific guidelines regarding classroom activities, treats, and parties, please refer to the attached Valentine's Day Celebration Guidelines document. We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining a focus on learning while still allowing students to enjoy the spirit of the holiday.

Updates & Reminders

• Nominate an Inspiring Teacher! The nomination period for the District Teacher of the Year (TOY) award is open from January 6 to February 14, 2025. This DoDEA program honors teachers who make a positive impact on students and communities. Parents are encouraged to nominate teachers who have inspired their children. Visit the http://www.dodea.edu/teachers/teacherofyear.cfm to submit your nomination. Help us recognize a deserving teacher’s dedication! Thank you for your support!
• Calling all STEM enthusiasts! Our 5th Annual STEM Expo is April 30, 2025! Share your STEM expertise with our students – see the attached flyer for details and to RSVP by March 27th. Contact Mary Chambers at mary.chambers@dodea.edu with questions.
• Fifth Grade Yearbook Dedications. Celebrate your fifth grader's accomplishments by dedicating a special message to them in the yearbook! Submit your 2-3 sentence message and 2 photos (maximum) by scanning the QR code or emailing them to rotaesyearbook@gmail.com. The deadline is March 31st. Don't miss this opportunity to personalize their yearbook memory!

Community News

• Military Family Life Counselors (MFLCs) Available: We have Military Family Life Counselors available to provide support and resources to military-connected students and families. MFLCs offer confidential, non-medical counseling on a variety of issues. If you're interested in learning more about MFLC services or connecting with a counselor, please stop by the school office.
• Free Online Tutoring with Tutor.com: Your student has access to free online tutoring through Tutor.com! This valuable resource offers support in a variety of subjects. For more information, including how to access Tutor.com, please refer to the attached flyer in this week's newsletter.
• Student Support Resources Available! Facing challenges? Our school provides comprehensive support. The attached flyer details available resources including counseling services (MFLC, school counselors, IBHC), chaplain support, and emergency contacts. Don't hesitate to reach out for help!
• EDIS Parent Support Group. Struggling to support your child's mental well-being? EDIS offers a monthly support group (first Wednesday, 8:15-9:30 AM, EDIS Building Conference Room) to help parents connect, learn coping skills, and reduce stress. Call 727-4029 to reserve your space.

Clubs & Activities

• Lego Robotics Club. The club meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:45 to 3:45 p.m., and on Wednesdays from 1:45 to 2:45 p.m.

The Nurse's Corner

• Health Reminder for Parents: To maintain a healthy school environment, please keep your child at home if they exhibit any symptoms such as fever (100°F or higher), new rashes with fever, vomiting, diarrhea, draining skin sores, worsening respiratory symptoms, eye redness with discharge, or general unwellness. Your cooperation is essential in preventing the spread of illness. For questions, contact the school nurse.

PTSA News

• Popcorn Subscription: PTSA's Popcorn Wednesdays program offers half-year subscriptions (1 bag/$10, 2 bags/$15, delivered through May 21st), individual bags ($1), and requires orders for weekly popcorn before 7:30 AM on Wednesdays; payments are accepted via check (payable to DGF PTSA), cash (USD only), or online; the renewal deadline is January 16th, and a free popcorn day is scheduled for April 23rd.
• Celebrate Spirit Fridays! Get ready for Spirit Fridays at Rota Elementary! Every Friday, students can show their school pride by wearing blue. All participants will be acknowledged, and the class with the highest percentage of students in blue will earn special recognition from the PTSA. Let's come together to celebrate our school spirit every week!
• Spirit Wear: Rota Elementary School is having a winter release and restock of their spirit wear. Youth and adult sizes are available. A QR code is provided for online shopping to support the PTSA.
• PTSA: So Much More Than You Think! Your PTSA is hard at work behind the scenes, making our school a better place. We organize fun events like Field Day and the Winter Bazaar, fundraise to provide new supplies and learning tools, run weekly programs, and even support our teachers with funding and appreciation events. Consider becoming a member or volunteer—we always welcome new help!
• Calling All Volunteers! Rota ES PTSA needs your help! We're looking for volunteers to support our school community. Scan the QR codes (see image) to join our WhatsApp chat or Facebook page and find out how you can get involved. Every bit of help makes a difference! Questions? Email us at DGFPTSAVOLUNTEER@gmail.com.

School Calendars

• Stay informed by exploring the Rota ES annual calendar and this month's school calendar. Find lunch menus and details about the Student Meal Program at https://www.mynavyexchange.com/studentmealprogram/.

Employment Opportunities

• NOW HIRING: Educational Aides and Substitute Teachers! Join our team to support military-connected students. We’re looking for enthusiastic individuals for entry-level federal positions offering professional growth, flexible part-time schedules, competitive wages, and benefits—no college degree required! For more details, check out the attached flyers or visit usajobs.gov.

Contact Us

Office Hours

7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (Daily)

Doors Open to Students at 7:50 a.m.

Instructional Hours

8:05 a.m. to 2:35 p.m. (Mon, Tues, Thurs, & Fri)

8:05 a.m. to 1:35 p.m. (Wednesday)

Note: Late arrivals must be signed in by a parent.

Phone Numbers

Off-Base: 856-82-0220

DSN: 682-0220

Report School Attendance

rotaes.attendance@dodea.edu

School Registration Inquiries

rotaes.registrar@dodea.edu