Weekly Update October 5th, 2024

Toro Parents, 

Welcome to the latest RES updates for the week of October 7th, 2024. We're excited to share a variety of important events and activities happening at Rota Elementary. From our first School Advisory Committee meeting and engaging cultural celebrations to valuable educational programs and support groups, there are plenty of ways for you and your family to get involved. We encourage you to read through the details. As always, your participation is vital to our success, and we look forward to seeing you at these upcoming events.

• SAC Q1 MEETING:  Parents are invited to attend the first quarterly School Advisory Committee (SAC) meeting on October 8th at 11 AM 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! You can join us in person at the elementary school library or virtually. Questions or comments can also be submitted anonymously through this link: Submit Input.
• AMERICAN HISTORY ESSAY CONTEST: The American History Essay Contest is open to all grade 5-8 students, both in school and home-schooled. The topic this year is "Enjoying a new kind of Tea Party," which asks students to imagine participating in a tea party during the American Revolution.  Essays are judged on historical accuracy, organization, and originality.  Refer to the attached document for more information.
• NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH: Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month with Rota Elementary School and the NAVST Rota Diversity Committee! Join us for an exciting event filled with crafts, inspiring speakers, and cake at the Multi-Purpose Building on campus on Tuesday, October 15th at 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Families are welcome! If you are interested in sharing a story about your Hispanic heritage or would like to support the event, please contact Principal Kirk at kenneth.kirk@dodea.edu. We look forward to seeing you there!
• UNITY DAY – OCTOBER 16TH: We invite all students and staff to wear orange in celebration of Unity Day. Join us at 8:30 AM in the school courtyard for a special event featuring a performance by our 2nd grade students. Parents are warmly welcome to attend and share in this important day of togetherness at Rota Elementary.
• NATIONAL BULLYING PREVENTION MONTH: This October, our school will focus on identifying and preventing bullying. Students will learn how to distinguish bullying from conflict, resolve conflicts, and become 'upstanders' by supporting peers. We'll discuss strategies for preventing and reporting bullying, ensuring a safe environment for all at DGF.
• FLU VACCINE CLINICS COMING SOON: Flu vaccines will be available for all beneficiaries starting October 16th.  Vaccines will be available at the Navy Exchange (NEX) on October 16th and 17th, and at DGF School on November 7th and 8th.  For more information, please contact COMM: 956-82-3464 / DSN: 727-3464.
• RED RIBBON WEEK: Lights, camera, action!  Get ready for Red Ribbon Week, October 28 - November 1!  We're celebrating a drug-free life with a week of movie-themed fun, including dress-up days, a character parade, and more!
• LEMON CHAT: Our Military Family Life Counselors are offering small group sessions for students in grades 1-5. The program will run from September 2024 through June 2025. Contact Barbara Angstadt (641-482-865) or Roneiko Henderson (624-262-856) for more information.
• FAMILY DEPLOYMENT GROUP: Join us for the Family Deployment Support Group hosted by Military Family Life Counselors (MFLC) on the 3rd Thursday of every month from 2:50 PM to 4:00 PM in the DGF Elementary Library. Upcoming meetings will take place on October 17, November 14, and December 19, 2024. This is a great opportunity for families to connect and receive support during deployment times. For more information, please contact Barbara Angstadt or Roneiko Henderson at 641-482-8656 or 262-856.
• FEELING OVERWHELMED SUPPORTING YOUR CHILD'S MENTAL HEALTH? Join our free, monthly support group! Learn practical strategies, discover helpful resources, and find ways to manage your own stress while supporting your child. The group meets the first Wednesday of each month from 8:15 to 9:30 in the EDIS Building Conference Room. Call 727-4029 to reserve your space.
• YEARLY & MONTHLY SCHOOL CALENDARS: Stay informed by reviewing the Rota ES annual calendar, along with the calendar for this month. Be sure to check the details for October’s events and activities.
• SCHOOL HOURS: Doors open at 7:50 a.m.; classes start at 8:05 a.m. Late arrivals must be signed in by a parent. Office hours: 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. daily. Contact: 856-82-0220 (off-base) or 682-0220 (DSN). Dismissal: 2:35 p.m. daily, 1:35 p.m. on Wednesdays. Please arrange childcare accordingly.

Warm Regards,

Ken Kirk

Principal

Rota Elementary

2022 National Blue Ribbon School

 Mission – Educate, Engage, and Empower each student to succeed in a dynamic world.

Vision – Excellence in Education for Every Student, Every Day, Everywhere