The TORO Bulletin - Week of April 20th, 2026
A Note from the Principal
Dear Parents and Families,
I want to begin this week's newsletter by extending a heartfelt thank you to our wonderful PTSA, the USO, Dr. Cypers, and all the dedicated volunteers who helped make our MOMC Family Night such an incredible success. To the parents and students who attended—thank you for joining us and making it a truly special evening celebrating our military children!
As we look ahead, we have a busy week, particularly this Wednesday:
- Earth Day Celebrations: Our Kindergarten and 1st-grade students will be celebrating Earth Day with special activities.
- Administrative Assistants Day: Please join me in showing appreciation for our amazing front office staff who keep our school running smoothly every single day.
- EOY Testing: Our 4th and 5th-grade students will officially kick off their End-of-Year (EOY) assessments.
Please take a few moments to read through the rest of this newsletter to check out all of this information, testing schedules, and more. Have a fantastic week!
Pictures of the Week
Rota Goes Purple for MOMC
ROTA, Spain — April is the Month of the Military Child (MOMC), a special time to honor the resilience and unique sacrifices of youth in military families. This year, Rota Elementary School pulled out all the stops with an action-packed "Purple Up!" week to show our students the appreciation they deserve.
A Splash-Tastic Kickoff
The festivities kicked off Wednesday morning with an electric Purple Up! Assembly. The campus turned into a sea of purple as the crowd enjoyed:
- Student Highlights: Energetic performances by 2nd, 4th, and 5th graders (joined by MHS guests), alongside inspiring speeches from students sharing their unique military experiences.
- Admin Antics: The crowd went wild watching Assistant Principals Ms. Rodriguez and Mr. Gostowski get covered in silly string, while Principals Mr. Kirk and Dr. Schonfeldt braved a chilly plunge into the dunk tank!
"Seeing the smiles on our students' faces as they watched us hit the water was worth every chilly drop," said Principal Kirk. "This week is about more than just fun; it’s about ensuring every military child at Rota knows they are seen, valued, and supported by a community that truly understands their journey."
Family Fun & Weekend Winners
The celebration continued Wednesday evening with the MOMC Family Night, an event designed to connect the whole community. The USO hosted a high-energy dance for the kids, while child psychologist Dr. Scott Cypers delivered an engaging talk for parents. Families also explored a community resource fair and enjoyed a free cook-out dinner provided by the PTSA.
Because one day wasn't enough, the fun extended into the weekend! On Friday, the USO and PTSA teamed up to host a lively Purple Up! Bingo Night, where families gathered for friendly competition and fantastic free prizes.
A Heartfelt Thank You
A massive thank you to all the volunteers, participants, community members, the USO, MWR, and the PTSA for making this week a huge success. Your hard work and generosity showed our military children exactly how much they mean to the Rota community!
Coming Up This Week!
🌍 Join Us for Our Earth Day Celebration!
Come celebrate the beauty of our planet with our amazing Kindergarten and 1st-grade students! We warmly invite all families and friends to join us for a special morning dedicated to Earth Day.
Our little learners have been working hard to prepare a wonderful presentation. They will be singing songs, sharing a few words about protecting our environment, and getting their hands dirty as they help plant beautiful new olive trees on campus.
Event Details
- When: Wednesday, April 22nd
- Time: 9:00 a.m.
- Where: Toro Courtyard
- Featuring: Kindergarten & 1st Grade Students
It will be a brief but meaningful morning of community, nature, and joy. We can’t wait to see you there to cheer on our students and celebrate our earth together!
📝 Upcoming ELA Assessments for 4th & 5th Graders!
ttention 4th and 5th-grade families! Our students will be taking their end-of-year English Language Arts (ELA) assessments on Tuesday and Thursday mornings.
To help our students feel confident and ready to do their best, we ask for your partnership at home. Please ensure your child:
- Gets a great night's sleep the evening before each test.
- Eats a healthy, nutritious breakfast to fuel their brain.
- Arrives at school on time so they have plenty of time to settle in and relax before testing begins.
Thank you for your continued support in helping our students finish the year strong!
🌟 Celebrating Our Amazing Administrative Assistants!
Wednesday, April 22nd is Administrative Professionals' Day, and we want to take a moment to recognize the true heartbeat of our school's front office: Ms. Nino and Ms. Roman!
Whether they are helping a sick student, assisting our staff with daily operations, or warmly greeting parents and visitors, Ms. Nino and Ms. Roman go above and beyond to keep our school running smoothly. We are incredibly thankful for everything they do behind the scenes and on the front lines to support our entire school community.
How You Can Help Us Celebrate:
- Drop by the Front Office: Take a moment on Wednesday to stop by, say hello, and wish them a wonderful day.
- Show Your Appreciation: Consider bringing a card, a simple thank-you note, or a small token of appreciation to show them just how much they mean to us.
Let's make sure Ms. Nino and Ms. Roman feel the love and gratitude they deserve this Wednesday!
Spring Re-registration: SY 2026-2027
It’s time to confirm your student’s enrollment status for the upcoming school year. All parents must submit a re-registration request via the DSIS Family Portal to indicate if their student is returning or leaving.
Quick Tips for Success
- Select the Right Section: Use the "Current Student Re-Registration" tab.
- Upload Documents: If your orders are expired or expiring, upload new ones or extensions in the Documents tab.
- Update Info: Review and edit contacts, employment status, and student health records. Clearly mark any emergency contacts to be added or removed.
- Deadlines: Complete the process as soon as possible (no later than the end of the school year) to help with staffing and resource planning.
Important Notes
- Next Steps: The School Registrar will contact you if more information is needed.
- Space-Available Students: Re-registration does not guarantee a seat for the next year. Your school will contact you regarding additional requirements.
- Support: If you have questions or technical issues, please contact your School Registrar.
Upcoming Events, Important Information, & Reminders
📚 From the Library: End-of-Year Wrap Up
As we approach the end of a fantastic school year, it’s time to start gathering our favorite stories and returning them to the library shelves. To ensure all our books are accounted for before summer break, please take note of the following deadlines:
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Last Day for Checkouts | Thursday, May 21 |
| All Books Due Back | Tuesday, May 26 |
Closing Procedures
- Final Checkouts: Students are encouraged to grab their final reads by May 21. After this date, we will begin our annual inventory process.
- Search Your Shelves: Please take a moment this week to look under beds, in backpacks, and on home bookshelves for any stray library books.
- Returning Items: Books can be dropped off in the library return bin during school hours.
Thank you for your help in keeping our collection complete for next year’s students! If you have any questions regarding lost books or account balances, please stop by the media center to speak with our library staff.
Happy Reading!
¡Olé! Get Ready for Sevillana Day! 💃🥘
Mark your calendars for a vibrant celebration of Spanish culture! On Wednesday, April 29th, our school will be hosting our annual Sevillana Day. We have a fantastic lineup of festive activities planned for our students and community.
Here is what you can look forward to:
- Dress to Impress: Students are invited to come to school dressed in their best Sevillana attire! Whether it's a traditional ruffled flamenco dress, a tailored vest, or simply a bright flower in your hair, we encourage everyone to show off their festive spirit.
- A Taste of Spain: We are bringing the flavors of Andalusia to the cafeteria! A delicious, authentic paella will be served at lunch for any students who choose to partake.
- Live Performances: Our incredibly talented Sevillana Dance Club has been practicing hard and will be showcasing their skills twice during the day:
- 1:00 p.m.: A special performance during the school day for the entire student body.
- 4:00 p.m.: A spectacular encore performance to officially kick off STEAM Night!
We can't wait to see the school filled with color, music, and energy. We look forward to celebrating with you!
Study Trips: Important Guidelines!
We are excited as our grade levels get ready for their upcoming study trips, which are wonderful opportunities for students to learn outside the classroom. To guarantee that every excursion is safe, organized, and successful, please follow the outlined key guidelines for families. These policies help staff maintain continuous supervision and focus:
- Mandatory Bus Travel: All students must ride the provided bus to and from the destination.
- Meeting at the Venue: Parents and siblings are kindly asked not to meet the group at the study trip location. Having extra guests arrive at the venue adds significant challenges to managing the group and supervising the students effectively.
- No Siblings on Trips: Younger preschool-age children and siblings from other classrooms are not permitted to accompany the group. This rule ensures that staff can dedicate their full attention to the participating class.
- Return for Check-Out: There is a strict policy against non-emergency early check-outs directly from the trip location. All students must return to the school campus on the bus before they can be officially checked out.
Thank you for your ongoing support in making these study trips a fantastic educational experience for Rota Elementary School students!
🚀 Get Ready for Rota Elementary's STEAM Night!
Join us for a spectacular evening of discovery and fun at our upcoming STEAM Night! Bring the whole family for hands-on activities exploring Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. Admission is completely free for all students and their families!
Event Details:
- Date: April 29th
- Time: 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM
- Location: DGF Elementary School (Gym & Cafeteria)
What to Expect:
- STEAM Passports: Pick up your passport right at the entrance! Visit different stations to complete fun activities and collect stamps along the way.
- Opportunity Drawing: Complete at least 8 stations to enter our Grand Prize Drawing. There will be one lucky winner selected per grade level (UPK - 5th Grade)!
- At-Home Project Competition: Check out the incredible student projects on display. The top participants will be taking home some awesome prizes!
Questions? Please reach out to Teresa Bejar at teresa.bejar@dodea.edu.
We can't wait to see your family there for a night of learning, creativity, and imagination!
⚾ Calling all Future Softball Stars! ⚾
Ready to improve your skills on the field? Rota Middle High School is thrilled to announce a Youth Softball Clinic open to all K-8 students on Rota Naval Base!
This is a fantastic opportunity for young players to learn from the RMHS coaches and players in a fun, supportive environment. Whether your child is new to the game or looking to refine their technique, this clinic will offer valuable tips and drills.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Who: K-8 Students Only
- When: Saturday, April 25 | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Where: Field 2, Rota Naval Base
- Cost: $30 Sign-up
- Required: Please bring a water bottle!
Don't wait! Spots are filling up fast.
To register, simply scan the QR code on the flyer below. For any questions, please contact the RMHS athletics office.
We can't wait to see you on the field!
🍭 Step into "Reading Land" at Our Spring Book Fair! 🍭
Get ready for a super sweet adventure! The Rota ES PTSA invites you to the Spring 2026 Scholastic Book Fair, magically transformed into a candy-coated Reading Land.
Join us during the week of April 27th to explore a wonderful selection of books, exciting STEM toys, colorful journals, and much more. Whether you're looking for the next great story or a fun new gadget, there is something for everyone!
Event Details:
- When: Week of April 27th
- Entry: Free! All are welcome to join the fun.
- Payment Info: USD Card or Cash only. (Please note: Students cannot use cards without an adult present).
We can't wait to see you there for a truly delicious reading experience!
Community News, Resources, & Supports
🌱 Build Calm and Connection: Mindful Parenting Workshop
Parenting is rewarding, but let’s be honest—it can also be incredibly stressful. If you’ve ever found yourself yelling, feeling frustrated by repeat behaviors, or worrying about the future, you aren’t alone.
The Fleet & Family Support Center is hosting a 6-week Mindful Parenting class designed to help you move from feeling overwhelmed to being intentional. This supportive, practical program focuses on building confidence and creating lasting connections with your children.
What to Expect:
- Stay Grounded: Learn techniques to remain calm and focused during stressful moments.
- Self-Discovery: Explore how your own upbringing influences your parenting style.
- Goal Setting: Identify what you truly want for your children and practical ways to get there.
- Communication: Tips for establishing open dialogue and healthy boundaries.
Event Details:
- When: March 23 & 30 | April 6, 13, 20 & 27
- Time: 1000–1200
- Where: Fleet and Family Support Center
- Who: Open to all service members and adult family dependents.
How to Register:
Ready to bring more peace to your household? You can register by scanning the QR code in the flyer above or by contacting Fleet & Family directly:
- Visit: BLDG 3293
- Call: +34 956 82 3232
- Email: usn.rota.navstarotasp.mbx.ffsc@us.navy.mil
What is Child Find?
Is your child reaching their milestones? If you have questions about your child’s development or learning, now is the time to get answers.
Child Find is a free service provided by DODEA for children from birth to age 21. It’s designed to identify developmental delays or learning challenges early, ensuring every child gets the support they need to thrive.
Mark Your Calendar!
Our final screening date for this school year is:
- Date: April 15th
- Who: Military and civilian dependents (Ages 3-5 not currently enrolled at Rota Elementary).
When Should You Seek Help?
You should consider scheduling a screening if:
- You have general concerns about your child’s learning or development.
- Your child struggles with speech, vision, hearing, or motor skills.
- There is a diagnosed condition or health issue impacting their growth.
Take Action Today
Screenings are free and easy to schedule. To learn more or to book an appointment, please contact Rota Elementary School:
📞 Call: 856-82-0220
Your Guide to Student Support: Navigating the Rota Roadmap
It is perfectly okay to not be okay. Whether you’re feeling the stress of a deployment, struggling with a move, or just feeling overwhelmed by school, your well-being is our top priority. The Student Support Roadmap is here to help you find the right level of care when you need it most.
🚦 Know Your Level of Need
- Green: No immediate safety issues.
- Yellow: You have some concerns for your safety.
- Red: High concern for safety; you need immediate help to stay safe.
🛣️ Available Support Pathways
Depending on your situation, there are several dedicated teams ready to listen and help:
- For Everyday Support: Reach out to School Mental Health Support or the Rota School Complex staff (teachers, counselors, or the principal) during school hours.
- For Specialized Counseling: * MFLC (Military & Family Life Counselors): Great for talking through stressful life events (requires parent permission).
- FFSC (Fleet & Family Support Center): Helps with adjusting to life in Rota or deployment stress. Call 956-82-3232.
- EDIS Mental Health: Offers medical/mental health counseling for anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
- For Low-Barrier Access: The Integrated Behavioral Health Clinic (IBHC) offers tools for sleep, stress, and mood with no referral needed. Call 956-82-3618.
- For Spiritual or Personal Guidance: Command Chaplains are available for school issues, grief, or faith concerns. Call +34 956 82 2161.
🚨 Emergency & Crisis Support
If you are in danger of hurting yourself or others, please use these resources immediately:
- Crisis Line: Call 988 on base for 24/7 support.
- Emergency Department: Go directly to the ER or call 911 on base (112 off base).
Important Note: You don't have to navigate these challenges alone. If you aren't sure where to start, stop by the School Mental Health office—they can help connect you to the right resource.
Support Your Child with MFLC Services
Did you know your child can access free, confidential support through the Military & Family Life Counseling (MFLC) program right here at school?
Our MFLC counselors are dedicated to helping students navigate the unique challenges of military life, including:
- School transitions and moves
- Deployments and reunions
- Peer relationships and social skills
- Emotional well-being and academic success
Action Required: Complete the ROI Form
To allow your child to receive individualized support from the MFLC, we must have a completed Release of Information (ROI) form on file. Without this form, the counselor is limited to general classroom interactions only.
How to get a form:
- Pick one up at the front office.
- Request to have one sent home with your student.
Thank you for partnering with us to support your child’s emotional health and success!
PTSA News & Updates
Capture the Memories!
The 2025-2026 school year has been one for the books—literally! The Rota Elementary School PTSA is officially opening Yearbook Pre-Orders. From first-day smiles to field day fun, make sure your student has a permanent keepsakes of their favorite moments. The final countdown for all orders ends April 17. Scan the QR code in the flyer below to grab yours today!
Did You Know the PTSA Does That?
Our Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) works behind the scenes to make our school year unforgettable! From funding essential supplies to hosting our favorite traditions, here is a look at what we’ve been up to:
- School Events: We bring the fun with events like Field Day, Story Time, the Book Fair, our annual Fun Run, and the Winter Bazaar.
- Upgrades & Supplies: We invest directly in our students' education by purchasing new supplies and modern learning tools for our classrooms.
- Teacher Support: We show our gratitude by funding classroom needs and hosting a special Teacher Appreciation Week every year.
- Weekly Programs: Don’t forget—we make fresh popcorn and run the Toro Store every Wednesday!
- Fundraising: All of this is made possible through your memberships, yearbook sales, and school merchandise.
Join the Team!
We are always looking for new members and volunteers to help bring these programs to life. Whether you have an hour a week or an hour a month, we’d love to have you.
👕 DGF Elementary Merch is Officially Here!
It's time to show your school spirit and support the PTSA! Our brand-new DGF Elementary merchandise has arrived, featuring our fierce bull mascot on cozy sweatshirts and bright tees.
Whether you're looking to outfit the kids or grab some gear for yourself, we've got you covered with both Youth and Adult sizes available. Best of all, every purchase directly supports our PTSA programs!
Ready to gear up?
- Shop Online: Visit dgfptsa.givebacks.com
- Quick Access: Scan the QR code on the official merch flyer to go straight to the store.
School Calendars
Student Meal Program
Get Involved! - Employment & Volunteer Opportunities
Join the Rota Elementary Team for the 2026–2027 School Year!
Are you passionate about education and eager to support military-connected students? Rota Elementary School is currently hiring for multiple roles with the Department of War Education Activity (DoWEA). Whether you are a seasoned professional or looking for an entry-level position, there is a place for you on the team of Toro educators!
Current Opportunities Include:
- Teaching Positions: Make a lasting impact in the classroom as a full-time federal educator. These roles offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and professional development opportunities.
- How to apply: Use the Employment Application System at webapps.dodea.edu/eas/login.cfm
- Educational Aides & Substitute Teachers: Support student success in flexible, entry-level roles—no college degree required! Enjoy part-time schedules, competitive wages, federal benefits, and room for growth.
- How to apply: Search for openings on USAJobs.gov
Want to learn more? Explore DoDEA careers and resources by visiting dodea.edu/offices/human-resources/work-dodea.
School Information
📢 Action Required: Update Your Contact Information!
Have you moved or changed your phone number recently? If your contact information (such as your address or phone number) has changed since you enrolled your student, please update your details with the elementary front office.
It is vital that we have your most current information on file so we can reach you quickly in case of an emergency.
How to Update Your Information:
- 📞 Call: 856-820-220
- ✉️ Email: Cristina.Nino@dodea.edu
Please act now to ensure we can always stay connected!
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