The TORO Bulletin - Week of August 31st, 2026
Upcoming Events
- Friday, Aug 28th
- SAC Elections
- Wednesday, Sept 2nd
- Early Release @ 1:35 p.m.
- Friday, Sept 4th
- Special Early Release @ 10:55 a.m.
- Monday, Sept 7th
- No School - Labor Day
- Wednesday, Sept 9th
- Early Release @ 1:35 p.m.
- Friday, Sept 11th
- 9/11 School Ceremony
- Bingo Night @ 4:30 p.m.
A Note from Rota ES School
Rota Elementary Families,
Welcome to the latest edition of our school newsletter!
We’ve had an outstanding couple of weeks kicking off the year. We are thrilled to report a highly successful first week for our prekindergarten students—thank you to the families and staff who helped make their start so smooth. Meanwhile, our K-5 students have officially put their second week in the books and are already settling wonderfully into their classroom routines.
Make Your Voice Heard: SAC Voting Please take a brief moment to cast your vote for this year’s School Advisory Committee (SAC) members. The SAC plays a critical role in guiding our goals and priorities, and your participation ensures our entire community is represented.
Upcoming Calendar Reminders Be sure to track the calendar updates detailed below, paying special attention to:
- Special Early Release: Students will be dismissed on Friday. September 4th, at 10:55 a.m.
- Labor Day Weekend: Classes will not be in session on Monday, September 7. We hope your family enjoys the extended weekend!
Thank you for your continued partnership.
School News & Updates
🗳️ Cast Your Vote for Our SAC Parent Representatives!
We are excited to announce the election for this year's School Advisory Committee (SAC) parent representatives, and we need your voice!
The SAC plays a crucial role in guiding our school's goals, programs, and improvement plans. Having dedicated parent representatives ensures that your perspectives are heard and valued in our daily decision-making process.
Here are the important details:
- What: Voting for the 2026–2027 SAC Parent Representatives
- Who Can Vote: All current parents and guardians
- Deadline: Sunday, August 30th at 3:00 p.m.
- How to Vote: VOTE HERE!
Please take a few moments to review the candidates and cast your ballot. Your participation directly impacts our school community's success!
Thank you for your continued support and engagement.
🍎 Quick Reminder: Labor Day Weekend Schedule!
Hello, Families!
As we gear up for the holiday, please mark your calendars with a couple of quick schedule updates so you can kick off your long weekend smoothly:
- Friday, September 4th: Special early release at 10:55 a.m.
- Monday, September 7th: No School in recognition of Labor Day.
We hope everyone has a fantastic, safe, and restful extended break. Enjoy the extra time with your kids, and we will see them bright and early when classes resume on Tuesday.
Enjoy the long weekend!
Community News & Resources
Homework Help, Anytime You Need It!
As our kids get settled into their new classes this August, evening homework can sometimes feel like a hurdle. Whether it's tricky new math concepts or practicing writing skills, I want to share an amazing, totally free tool we have access to: Tutor.com for U.S. Military Families.
Because we're living here in Spain, the best part is that this service is available 24/7. Your elementary student can connect with an expert tutor right when they need help, without worrying about stateside time zone differences. The tutors don't just give out the answers; they focus on real conceptual learning to make sure the kids truly understand the material.
It’s completely safe and anonymous, and all the work happens in a recorded digital classroom. They can help with everything from foundational math and science to social studies and English.
It's fantastic for building early confidence. In fact, one parent even shared, "My 7-year-old son is actually motivated to do his homework because of it"! Overall, 97% of students who use the platform report feeling more confident in their learning.
You can check your eligibility and get your family signed up quickly at www.tutor.com/military.
PTSA News & Updates
Welcome to the Rota Elementary PTSA!
The Rota PTSA warmly welcomes our returning and new families to what promises to be an incredible school year! We are excited for this new year and hope to see many friendly faces helping to make a difference for our students, staff, and the entire school community.
What We Do
Your involvement directly supports our school. Through fundraising and memberships, the PTSA is able to provide:
- School Events: We organize fun activities like Field Day, Story Time, the Book Fair, the Fun Run, and the Winter Bazaar.
- Upgrades & Supplies: We use our funds to purchase new learning tools and supplies for our classrooms.
- Programs: We run the Toro Store and make popcorn every Wednesday.
- Teacher Support: We fund classroom needs and host Teacher Appreciation Week to support our amazing educators.
Why Join the PTSA?
Beyond supporting our students and staff, PTSA members enjoy some fantastic exclusive perks! When you become a member, you will receive:
- A free Purple Up shirt in April.
- An official PTSA member lanyard.
- A PTSA spirit stick keychain.
- Exclusive discounts on select events and products throughout the year.
Get Involved Today!
Show off your Toro pride and help us make this year unforgettable. Joining is quick and easy!
Click the link below to sign up and join the PTSA:
https://linktr.ee/rotadgfptsa?utm_source=qr_code
Call for PTSA Volunteers!
Our Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) works behind the scenes to make our school year incredible. From funding essential supplies to hosting our favorite traditions, your PTSA team is always hard at work for our community.
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 on board to help support our students and teachers.
To sign up today, please click I WANT TO VOLUNTEER or for more information, please contact: rotadgfptsapresident@gmail.com.
Transportation Services
🎒 Getting To & From School: Everything You Need to Know!
Whether your student rides the bus or gets dropped off, here is your quick guide to school transportation policies and procedures!
Contact the Transportation Office 📍 Location: Elementary Main Office 📧 Email: Rota.SBO@dodea.edu
Riding the Bus (PK – 12th Grade)
Need bus service? Step one is to request Form 4500 from the Transportation Office.
- Registration: All families must have an active registration on file. Pick up a form from the office (or request one via email), complete it, and return it to Rota.SBO@dodea.edu. You are also welcome to drop by in person during regular office hours.
- Renewals: Returning families needing to update their information or renew their spot for the current academic year can request and submit a pre-registration form at any time.
- Bus Stops & Passes: Once registered, your bus stop details will be sent via email. Bus passes will be handed directly to students on their first morning ride.
Bus Stop Safety & Buddy System
- 4th Grade & Up: Students are approved to walk to and from the bus stop independently.
- 3rd Grade & Below: Students must have an adult or designated "responsible person" present at the bus stop.
- Responsible Persons: A designated person can be a sibling or helper in 7th grade or above, provided they are authorized by the parents in writing.
Car Riders & Pick-Up Numbers
Safety is our top priority, which means all car-rider vehicles must display a currently assigned car number.
- Annual Requirement: Car-rider numbers are reset every school year. Numbers from previous school years are not valid, and all families must ensure they are using a current-year number.
- How to Get Your Number: Simply fill out your details on the provided spreadsheet or stop by the Transportation Office to complete the quick paperwork.
Student Meal Program
What's for Lunch? A Parent's Guide to the NEX Student Meal Program
Ensure your child's lunch account is always ready to go! The NEX Student Meal Program provides nutritious, balanced meals to help students power through their school day, and managing your account is easier than ever.
Here are the top reminders for parents to keep in mind throughout the school year:
- Pre-Pay & Monitor Online: You can easily fund your student’s account ahead of time through the online family meal portal. The portal also allows you to track exactly what your child is purchasing for lunch each day.
- Balanced, Affordable Meals: A standard meal is $3.50 for elementary students and $3.75 for secondary students. To qualify as a full meal, students receive an entrée, up to two fruits, two vegetables, and ice-cold milk (students must select at least one serving of a fruit or vegetable).
- Free & Reduced Meal Applications: If you believe your family qualifies for free or reduced-price meals, you can submit an application online at any time. Please note that a new application must be submitted annually, as prior-year eligibility expires 30 days into the new school year.
Manage Your Account Today To set up your family portal, add funds, view upcoming monthly menus, or apply for the free and reduced meal program, visit the official hub at: mynavyexchange.com/studentmealprogram
.
School Calendars
Get Involved!
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.
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