Greetings, Bobcats,

Please join us on Blue Hills Parent Education Night on May 18th from 6:00 - 7:00 PM! We would love to have you and your families join us for a night of learning. Can't wait to see you all there!

Bringing Literacy Home:

Quick and Simple Strategies for Supporting Students' Reading and Writing Skills at Home
Guest Lecturer: Meghan Hargrave, M.Ed.
May 18th from 6:00 - 7:00 PM (virtual meeting)

Caregivers, we are often asked what families can do with their students outside of school or how they can best support their students during the summer. While we never want home or summer to feel like one more "school day" for K-5 learners, we do know there are some tried and true things that can be done to continue reading and writing growth outside of the classroom. You will walk away from this session informed and excited about simple things that can be done at home to support the continued growth of readers and writers.

Meghan Hargrave is a literacy consultant and coach who has worked with Cupertino Unified School District and other districts around the world for over 10 years. This year teachers at Blue Hills and in schools across the district partnered with her to study ways to lift the level of literacy instruction and student growth. She is excited to share some of this knowledge with our parent community.

May 18th from 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM (virtual meeting)

Join via Google Meet: meet.google.com/imh-qstr-uci

Join by phone: ‪(US) +1 617-675-4444‬
PIN: ‪344 986 012 7518‬#

Warmly,

Ms. Mitchell

Principal, Blue Hills Elementary

"Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born"

Greetings, Bobcats,

Thank you all for following safe walking and driving habits when arriving and departing from school! This helps to keep our students, families, and staff safe while at Blue Hills.

Traffic Reminders:

ALL K-5 students who are arriving and departing by car need to be dropped off and picked up in the Blue Hills Traffic Circle Driveway, only. Please do not drop your student off on the DeSanka Ave sidewalk any longer. There have been several close calls recently with parents parallel parking along DeSanka and students entering/exiting vehicles in a way that is not safe. Our staff will kindly remind families of this shift to using only the traffic circle for students arriving/departing by car. Blue Hills Staff members are ready to greet your child at the Traffic Circle and can escort them to their entrance gate or classroom teacher's door. We will also help get your child from the front lawn dismissal lines to the driveway at the end of the school day. TK students will continue using the Goleta Avenue gate for arrival and dismissal. Parents, please be mindful of your speed as you drive through the Blue Hills School Zone.

ALL K-5 students who are arriving and departing by walking, please remember that your family should only be crossing the street at designated crosswalks. Please do not cross the street in areas that are not meant for pedestrians. Please use the sidewalk on the "Blue Hills side" of DeSanka Avenue. There is not a safe sidewalk for pedestrians along the homes directly across from the front of the school.

Biking and Scootering Students, please remember to follow all traffic safety rules. Thank you for storing your bikes and scooters in the bike cage near the parking lot. Always wear your helmet! Thank you for walking your bike through campus to the Goleta Avenue gate in the afternoon when you leave school. This is a much safer (and quieter) street to exit campus from when in bikes and scooters

For More information on how to get to and from school safely, please visit the Safe Routes to School webpage. Thank you for talking to your students about these safety rules, and for keeping Blue Hills a safe place for all of us!

Warmly,

-Ms. Mitchell

Principal, Blue Hills Elementary

"Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born"

Greetings, Bobcats,

This is just a reminder that all in-person students will be coming to campus all 4 days starting next week (April 26th). This means that there will no longer be AA/BB cohorts. All Hybrid students will attend school on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

All Hybrid students TK - 5 will arrive on campus between 7:45 - 8:00. Instruction begins at 8:00. Students will continue to walk themselves to their teacher’s classroom door once they arrive in the morning. The classroom teacher will be ready to greet students by 7:45 and will start handwashing procedures with students as they arrive.

Arrival for all Hybrid students TK - 5: 7:45 - 8:00 AM
(Students will arrive at schools and walk directly to their classroom door through their designated “gate/entrance”
Dismissal for students will be as follows:
TK and K: 10:50 AM
Grades 1-3: 1:05 PM
Grades 4-5: 1:25 PM

(TK students will continue to be dismissed at the Goleta Ave gate. Grades K-5 will continue to be dismissed at their cone on the Blue Hills front lawn on DeSanka Ave.)

This is a reminder that all Hybrid students will be eating snacks and lunch on campus. Please remember to pack a healthy snack and lunch from home. Students will need to bring their snack and lunch with them to school in the morning. Also, all students will need to bring a beach towel with them in their backpack to sit on while they eat. Hot Lunch is available to all students at no cost if they wish, each school day. If your student would like to order a free Hot Lunch, your teacher will take a “lunch count/order” from students in the morning each school day.” Vegetarian and regular meals will be offered. Please find a link to all of the CUSD Lunch Menus HERE. TK and K students will continue to have the option of ordering a Free Grab ‘n Go Brunch, if they would like one. CUSD weekly meal pick-ups are still being offered throughout the district as well.

Remember, starting the week of April 26th, all Hybrid students will attend school 4 days per week on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Please reach out to your teacher if you have questions about this schedule. We are very much looking forward to seeing next week (...both in-person AND virtually!!!)

Don’t Forget:

-Check new scheduling for on-campus days - each M, T, Th, F

-Make a plan with your students for snack/lunch/hot lunch

-Bring a Beach Towel to school each day

-Bring a Water bottle to school each day

-Bring your best smile each day!

-Check in with your teacher if you have questions

Warmly,

Ms. Ann Mitchell

Principal, Blue Hills Elementary School
“Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born”

Happy Friday, Bobcats,

We had a wonderful first few days on campus with students this week and we are looking forward to seeing you soon again!. I wanted to remind Blue Hills families that next week is Spring Break (April 12th - April 16th). Please be sure to refer to the CDPH Travel Guidelines if your family plans on traveling. Reach out to our Attendance Secretary, Kim Yamada, with any questions you may have, or to let us know you’ve traveled. Thank you for helping our school community stay safe and healthy!

School will resume on Monday, April 19th. During the week of April 19th - 23rd, Blue Hills will continue to follow an AA/BB schedule. This means that Hybrid grades 1-5 will either attend school in-person on Monday/Tuesday or on Thursday/Friday, however starting this week, all students (TK - 5) will be on campus for an extended day schedule. TK and K Hybrid students will all continue to attend Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. Your classroom teacher will provide instructional schedules for Distance Learning Students.

Starting the week of April 19th, all Hybrid students TK - 5 will arrive on campus between 7:45 - 8:00. Instruction begins at 8:00. Starting this week, students will walk themselves to their teacher’s classroom door once they arrive in the morning. The classroom teacher will be ready to greet students by 7:45 and will start handwashing procedures with students as they arrive.

Arrival for all Hybrid students TK - 5: 7:45 - 8:00 AM
(Students will arrive at schools and walk directly to their classroom door through their designated “gate/entrance”)
Dismissal for students will be as follows:
TK and K: 10:50 AM
Grades 1-3: 1:05 PM
Grades 4-5: 1:25 PM
(TK students will continue to be dismissed at the Goleta Ave gate. Grades K-5 will continue to be dismissed at their cone on the Blue Hills front lawn on DeSanka Ave.)

Starting the week of April 19th, Hybrid students will be eating snacks and lunch on campus. Please remember to pack a healthy snack and lunch from home. Students will need to bring their snack and lunch with them to school in the morning. Also, all students will need to bring a beach towel with them in their backpack to sit on while they eat. Hot Lunch is available to all students at no cost if they wish, each school day. If your student would like to order Hot Lunch, your teacher will take a “lunch count/order” from students in the morning each school day.” Vegetarian and regular meals will be offered. Please find a link to all of the CUSD Lunch Menus HERE. TK and K students will continue to have the option of ordering a Free Grab ‘n Go Brunch, if they would like one. CUSD weekly meal pick-ups are still being offered throughout the district as well. Meal pickups will be offered to students through Spring Break as well.

Starting the week of April 26th, all Hybrid students will attend school 4 days per week on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Please reach out to your teacher if you have questions about this schedule. We are very much looking forward to seeing you after Spring Break (...both in-person AND virtually!!

Don’t Forget:
-Check new timing/schedules for Hybrid arrival and dismissal per grade level
-Make a plan with your students for snack/lunch/hot lunch
-Bring a Beach Towel to school each day
-Bring a Water bottle to school each day
-Bring your best smile each day!
-Check in with your teacher if you have questions

Warmly,

Ms. Ann Mitchell
Principal, Blue Hills Elementary School
“Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born”

Greetings Blue Hills Parents and Families,

I'd like to take this opportunity to provide you with a link to the most recent board meeting and provide information about the District’s re-opening for in-person learning scheduled to start on April 5, 2021, at all schools.

For a full viewing of the Board Meeting, you can view the complete video at http://go.boarddocs.com/ca/cusdk8/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=BQE8MZ1EFEA7

Hybrid Re-opening Date - April 5, 2021 (Board Presentation Link)

The hybrid/in-person model will bring groups of students in grades TK-8 onto campus for a portion of the school day and/or week. All schools will start with an AA/BB schedule with the exception of TK/K who will be on an AM/PM schedule.

The week of April 5th will be a transition week at all school sites. Schools have informed parents of the schedule for that week.

The schedule below will begin the week of April 19, please refer to your school site communication regarding specifics.

• Grades TK-K and Elementary SDC: 12 hours per week on campus; 3 hours on campus/4x per week with am/pm teaching.

• Grades 1-5: 10 hours per week on campus; 5 hours on campus/2x per week with hybrid/concurrent teaching + DL support time block.

• Grades 6-8: 8 hours per week on campus; 4 hours on campus/2x per week with hybrid/concurrent teaching + office hours

The District will work towards expansion to a 4-day on-campus schedule.

Distance learning will continue when students are not on campus. The District ensures that regardless of the instructional model a family chooses (hybrid or full distance learning), students will have opportunities for continued rigorous learning opportunities, academic support and interventions, and opportunities that support social-emotional wellness and connectedness.

In preparation for re-opening, staff will be on campus, March 31, April 1, and April 2 preparing classrooms and attending mandatory health and safety training. Teachers will hold one live meet on each of these days for the purpose of attendance and engagement. The balance of these three days will be asynchronous learning (similar to a Wednesday schedule).

April 9, 2021, will be the last day parents may request a shift to the hybrid model. School sites will make every effort to accommodate requests that come in on or before the 9th, but movement will only be made if there is available space.

The Board acknowledged that throughout this pandemic, our students, families, and staff have experienced differing levels of hardship that will require increased support and equitable services in the months ahead. We are eagerly waiting to see our students return to the classroom, and we are committed to ensuring all students have the resources and services they need to recover from this crisis together.

Thank YOU!

We are busily working on preparing our campus to safely and joyfully welcome students back to both In-Person Learning and Distance Learning, and we can’t wait to share what we’ve planned at Blue Hills! I wanted to extend my personal gratitude to our entire Blue Hills Staff - teachers, specialists, custodians, and support staff! They have been tremendously supportive and kind colleagues to one another and have remained flexible, positive, and focused on student learning and wellbeing. They have continued to impress me with their dedication to their students and their families. This year has presented us with so many challenges, but we have found strength in navigating this road together. I am so proud to be working alongside such a dedicated school community! Please help celebrate and recognize the hard work of our Blue Hills Educators and support staff! Thank you to each of them, to our PTA and BHEF parent groups’ supportiveness, and to each of our Blue Hills families as we take this next step together.

Warmly,

Ms. Mitchell

Principal, Blue Hills Elementary School

“Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born”

Greetings Blue Hills Parents and Families,

This is a very exciting message to be writing, as it contains a lot of information about our soon-to-be In-Person Hybrid Learning Model and new Distance Learning Model. I know all of your families have been eagerly waiting to hear details about our school’s schedule and timelines. Thank you all so much for your patience as our Blue Hills staff planned, collaborated, and laid the foundation for the next chapter of learning this year.

Our Blue Hills students will continue their studies in one of two ways this Spring: as an In-Person Hybrid Learner or as an At-Home Distance Learner. We are fortunate enough to have been able to accommodate each family’s requests in selecting for their student to be a Hybrid or Distance Learner. Thank you for your continued partnership.

Later this afternoon, you will receive an email from your classroom teacher letting your family know which days of the week your Hybrid student will be coming to campus. If your student has selected to be a Distance Learner, your email will confirm that they will continue to receive instruction from home this Spring.

March 31st, April 1, and April 2nd will be Preparation Days. Our Blue Hills Staff will be participating in safety training, collaborating with colleagues, and preparing their workspaces, so they are ready to welcome students into their classrooms for Hybrid learning. Teachers will also be planning what instruction will look like for their Distance Learners. Classroom teachers will hold a Morning Meet with their students, and then students will have asynchronous work for the remainder of the day (similar to our current Wednesday schedule).

The week of April 5 will be a transition week for our students and staff and will follow a modified Hybrid schedule. Your teacher will provide you with the schedule for this week in this evening’s email. This Hybrid Transition Week will allow us to refine our drop-off/pick-up procedures and help our in-person students learn the procedures/routines that are part of hybrid learning. This week, Distance Learners will also be getting used to their new daily schedule.

Spring Break will take place across CUSD from April 12-16.

On Monday, April 19, we will begin our Expanded Hybrid Schedule. TK and K students will be coming to campus 4 days a week for about 3 hours, each of those days. Grades 1-5 students will be coming to campus 2 days per week, for about 5 hours, each of those days. Wednesdays will remain the same as they currently are, and will continue to be primarily asynchronous so that teachers may plan, participate in Professional Development and Staff Meetings, and prepare instruction for the coming week. Your teacher will provide you with the schedule for your students’ Expanded Hybrid Model in this evening’s email.

Principal’s Coffee with Ms. Mitchell:

We know there is a lot more information to share! Ms. Mitchell will be holding a Principal’s Coffee on Wednesday, March 24 at 10:00 AM (link below) to share logistical information regarding Blue Hill’s School-Wide Hybrid and new Distance Learning model and what families can expect. This event will be recorded, so if you cannot attend, you can view it later. In addition to Ms. Mitchell’s school-wide blast emails, teachers will be sending information through emails and newsletters as we get closer to April 5.

LINK to 10:00 AM Principal’s Coffee on March 24th:

Meeting ID

meet.google.com/goa-pzva-nzr

Phone Numbers

(‪US‬)‪+1 617-675-4444‬

PIN: ‪492 444 284 6757#‬

...Interested in being a Hybrid Parent Volunteer on our Campus?

To help streamline our school's Hybrid campus procedures and help keep our students and staff safe and cared for, we are looking for a set of dedicated parent/family member volunteers to help provide support on campus during our Hybrid learning model. These campus volunteers would need to be willing to commit to a set schedule of volunteering. (Sorry, no drop in volunteers at this time). All volunteer duties would take place outdoors only. Volunteers would complete training with CUSD and would also follow all CUSD health and safety guidelines. Blue Hills would GREATLY appreciate your support! Please fill out THIS FORM to indicate that you'd like to help support our school with your volunteerism!

Thank YOU!

We are busily working on preparing our campus to safely and joyfully welcome students back to both In-Person Learning and Distance Learning, and we can’t wait to share what we’ve planned at Blue Hills! I wanted to extend my personal gratitude to our entire Blue Hills Staff - teachers, specialists, custodians, and support staff! They have been tremendously supportive and kind colleagues to one another and have remained flexible, positive, and focused on student learning and wellbeing. They have continued to impress me with their dedication to their students and their families. This year has presented us with so many challenges, but we have found strength in navigating this road together. I am so proud to be working alongside such a dedicated school community! Please help celebrate and recognize the hard work of our Blue Hills Educators and support staff! Thank you to each of them, to our PTA and BHEF parent groups’ supportiveness, and to each of our Blue Hills families as we take this next step together.

Warmly,

Ms. Mitchell

Principal, Blue Hills Elementary School

“Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born”

Dear Blue Hills Parents and Families,

We are excited to announce that Blue Hills will be reopening for students on April 5th! As discussed at recent Board Meetings, each CUSD school will start with a modified Hybrid schedule for the weeks of April 5th and April 19th. (Spring Break is during the week of April 12th). This two-week transition will allow our teachers to establish new routines for managing both groups of learners, as well as ensure our health and safety protocols and in-person logistics are taught and implemented.

Currently, about 50% of our students have chosen to return to campus. In-person hybrid learners will be assigned to an “A or B stable group” since we will be safely limiting the number of students in a classroom at one time. Students in Group A will come to school on Monday and Tuesday, and students in Group B on Thursday and Friday. During the first two weeks of April 5 and April 19, in-person learners will be on campus for 2 hours from 8:00-10:00 a.m.

Our teachers, staff, and specialists are absolutely exceptional! I am confident they will all be prepared to meet the needs of our learners, whether learning from the classroom or at home. If your student receives special services, your student’s Case Manager will be reaching out to you soon to talk about times for service sessions.

What can you expect?

--If you have selected for your child to return to in-person learning, you will receive notification from your teacher indicating their placement in Cohort A (M/T) or B (Th/F) by March 16th.

-- CUSD has sent all families an InformedK12 form which indicates whether they wish to attend hybrid instruction at Blue Hills, or if their student will remain in Distance Learning. All families should fill out this form to indicate their instructional preferences for their students. This form is due by March 10th. If you have questions about this, please contact Ms. Kim Yamada, our Blue Hills Attendance Secretary via email at Yamada_Kimberley@cusdk8.org

--Before starting Hybrid instruction on April 5th, all families can expect to receive a detailed schedule from their Blue Hills classroom teacher so that they know what a typical day/week will look like for students for the two weeks mentioned above. While we do not anticipate the instructional times shifting, the curricular content within the instructional blocks may shift based on teacher judgment.

--We anticipate that Upper-Grade PE and Music may shift to asynchronous class sessions during the transition, and as we continue into an expanded hybrid model.

--We will expand the time on campus beginning the week of April 26th. The expended Hybrid Schedule will be used by all students; in-person and at home. Those details are still being coordinated with Blue Hills Staff so you can expect another update from me shortly after the March 11th Board Meeting. The Blue Hills Expanded Hybrid model will still follow the A and B Cohort models described above, but hybrid students will remain on campus for approximately 5 hours per day. Distance Learning students will continue to receive instruction synchronously and asynchronously. This Expanded Hybrid Schedule will include instruction as well as recess and lunch.

Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. All are welcome to join me in a Principal Office Hours session by signing up HERE. You may also send me an email at Mitchell_Ann@cusdk8.org

Please know that all Blue Hills staff members are all working around the clock to plan, and prepare our campus and our classrooms for the safe and joyful return of students. We look forward to your continued support and partnership during this exciting transitional time as we welcome students back onto our campus! Each of us appreciates your patience, flexibility, and kindness as we navigate our return to Blue Hills. We can’t wait to see our Bobcats in person soon!

Warmly,

Ms. Ann Mitchell

Principal, Blue Hills Elementary

“Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born”

Greetings Blue Hills,

I would like to take this opportunity to provide you with a link to last week’s board meeting and provide information about the District’s Phase 3 Re-opening plan, and how this relates to Blue Hills Elementary Schiool.

For a full viewing of the Board Meeting, you can view the complete video at http://go.boarddocs.com/ca/cusdk8/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=BQE8KW1EB235

Hybrid Re-opening Date - April 5, 2021 (Board Presentation Link)

We are confident based on County Metrics, safety protocols, vaccination availability, and our partnerships with our employees, that we will be able to open the week of April 5, 2021. This is our target date for Phase 3 hybrid implementation based on all of the information we have available at this time. The hybrid model will bring cohorts of students in grades TK-8 onto campus for a portion of the school day and/or week. Distance learning will continue when students are not on campus. The District ensures that regardless of the instructional model a family chooses (hybrid or full distance learning), students will have opportunities for continued rigorous learning opportunities, academic support and interventions, and opportunities that support social-emotional wellness and connectedness.

We look forward to bringing staff and students back onto the Blue Hills campus safely this spring. Our Staff is working and colaborating to plan for an April 5, 2021 re-opening that supports the needs of distance and hybrid learners simultaneously. By March 16, 2021, I will provide our Blue Hills School Community more specific information about student schedules and times that students will be invited to return to campus.

Additionally, March is National Wonen;s History Month! The Library of Congress, National Archives and Records Administration, National Endowment for the Humanities, National Gallery of Art, National Park Service, Smithsonian Institution and United States Holocaust Memorial Museum join in commemorating and encouraging the study, observance and celebration of the vital role of women in American history!

Women’s History Month had its origins as a national celebration in 1981. Since 1995, presidents have issued a series of annual proclamations designating the month of March as “Women’s History Month.” These proclamations celebrate the contributions women have made to the United States and recognize the specific achievements women have made over the course of American history in a variety of fields. Celebrate the contributions of all women and our women leaders with Blue Hills!

Warmly,

Ann Mitchell

Principal, Blue Hills Elementary School
"Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born"

Greetings Blue Hills,

Each and every day, Blue Hills celebrates and welcomes the beautiful diversity in our school and local community! This month we call specific attention to Black History Month! Please make it a priority to celebrate and highlight Black History Month this February, and be sure to empower our children to recognize, value, and appreciate multiculturalism every day in the community around us. Here are some resources you may want to check out at home with your children.

https://www.tolerance.org/

https://www.pbs.org/parents/thrive/teaching-your-child-about-black-history-month

https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/explore/history/black-history-month/

The Hill We Climb - Amanda Gorman

https://www.ted.com/playlists/230/10_great_talks_to_celebrate_bl

Additionally...

As you know, BHEF, or Blue Hills Educational Fund, is a non-profit organization that raises money to enhance the educational experience for all students at Blue Hills Elementary School. In order to ensure that BHEF continues to be able to operate and support Blue Hills, our BHEF Board must be fully staffed. We are in great need of recruiting parent volunteers for BHEF positions that will be open in the 2021-22 school year due to family matriculation. Below is a list of items that BHEF would like to continue to support each and every school year... BUT WE NEED YOUR HELP AND VOLUNTEERISM TO DO SO :)

BH Tech Support, BH Art and Music teachers, Librarian, and Instructional Assistants (including live/interactive online sessions for groups or individuals)
Social-emotional curriculum: Second Step
Professional development to enhance virtual learning, and literacy training for teachers
Events to help foster a sense of community and connectedness for BH students

Please email BHEF at BlueHillsEducationalFund@gmail.com or Principal Mitchell if you are interested in contributing as a BHEF Board Member in one of these positions:

BHEF Treasurer:

Records income & expense entries in QuickBooks
Prepares P&L Statement for each board meeting
Sends out donation tax receipts
Manages annual budget
Handles finances for BHEF events
Maintains permanent records to track unit funds and financial transactions
Chairs budget committee and prepares annual budget for adoption by the association
Pays all BHEF bills as authorized by board
Prepares reports for every board meeting and an annual financial report
Ensures taxes and reports required by BHEF bylaws, insurance or federal and state governments are completed and submitted by the due dates

BHEF Parliamentarian:

Assists the president to manage meetings and advises on parliamentary procedure
Chairs the Bylaws Committee

Reviews unit bylaws annually and revises bylaws every three years
Arranges nominating committee’s first meeting, providing information on the nomination and election process

BHEF Secretary:

Takes minutes at board meetings
Handles BHEF correspondence as directed by the president
Maintains and preserves BHEF records and important documents

BHEF President:

Arranges nominating committee.
Oversees and coordinates the work of an executive board to run BHEF effectively
Presides at BHEF board meetings
Serves as the official contact, communicator, and representative of a BHEF
Designated as an authorized signer for BHEF checks, contracts, and payments
Serves as an ex-officio member of all committees except the nominating committee
Works with other BHEF leaders to connect families, school, and community to support student success

Thank you for your continued support!

Please visit the BHEF page on our Hub to learn more!

Warmly,

Ann Mitchell

Principal, Blue Hills Elementary School
"Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born"

Greetings Blue Hills,

Each and every day, Blue Hills celebrates and welcomes the beautiful diversity in our school and local community! This month we call specific attention to Black History Month! Please make it a priority to celebrate and highlight Black History Month this February, and be sure to empower our children to recognize, value, and appreciate multiculturalism every day in the community around us. Here are some resources you may want to check out at home with your children.

https://www.tolerance.org/

https://www.pbs.org/parents/thrive/teaching-your-child-about-black-history-month

https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/explore/history/black-history-month/

The Hill We Climb - Amanda Gorman

https://www.ted.com/playlists/230/10_great_talks_to_celebrate_bl

Additionally...

As you know, BHEF, or Blue Hills Educational Fund, is a non-profit organization that raises money to enhance the educational experience for all students at Blue Hills Elementary School. In order to ensure that BHEF continues to be able to operate and support Blue Hills, our BHEF Board must be fully staffed. We are in great need of recruiting parent volunteers for BHEF positions that will be open in the 2021-22 school year due to family matriculation. Below is a list of items that BHEF would like to continue to support each and every school year... BUT WE NEED YOUR HELP AND VOLUNTEERISM TO DO SO :)

BH Tech Support, BH Art and Music teachers, Librarian, and Instructional Assistants (including live/interactive online sessions for groups or individuals)
Social-emotional curriculum: Second Step
Professional development to enhance virtual learning, and literacy training for teachers
Events to help foster a sense of community and connectedness for BH students

Please email BHEF at BlueHillsEducationalFund@gmail.com or Principal Mitchell if you are interested in contributing as a BHEF Board Member in one of these positions:

BHEF Treasurer:

Records income & expense entries in QuickBooks
Prepares P&L Statement for each board meeting
Sends out donation tax receipts
Manages annual budget
Handles finances for BHEF events
Maintains permanent records to track unit funds and financial transactions
Chairs budget committee and prepares annual budget for adoption by the association
Pays all BHEF bills as authorized by board
Prepares reports for every board meeting and an annual financial report
Ensures taxes and reports required by BHEF bylaws, insurance or federal and state governments are completed and submitted by the due dates

BHEF Parliamentarian:

Assists the president to manage meetings and advises on parliamentary procedure
Chairs the Bylaws Committee

Reviews unit bylaws annually and revises bylaws every three years
Arranges nominating committee’s first meeting, providing information on the nomination and election process

BHEF Secretary:

Takes minutes at board meetings
Handles BHEF correspondence as directed by the president
Maintains and preserves BHEF records and important documents

BHEF President:

Arranges nominating committee.
Oversees and coordinates the work of an executive board to run BHEF effectively
Presides at BHEF board meetings
Serves as the official contact, communicator, and representative of a BHEF
Designated as an authorized signer for BHEF checks, contracts, and payments
Serves as an ex-officio member of all committees except the nominating committee
Works with other BHEF leaders to connect families, school, and community to support student success

Thank you for your continued support!

Please visit the BHEF page on our Hub to learn more!

Warmly,

Ann Mitchell

Principal, Blue Hills Elementary School
"Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born"

Greetings Blue Hills,

Today is the first day of Black History Month 2021! Please make it a priority to celebrate and highlight Black History Month this February, and be sure to empower our children to recognize, value and appreciate multiculturalism every day in the community around us. Here are some resources you may want check out at home with your children.

https://www.tolerance.org/

https://www.pbs.org/parents/thrive/teaching-your-child-about-black-history-month

https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/explore/history/black-history-month/

The Hill We Climb - Amanda Gorman

https://www.ted.com/playlists/230/10_great_talks_to_celebrate_bl

Additionally...

As you know, BHEF, or Blue Hills Educational Fund, is a non-profit organization that raises money to enhance the educational experience for all students at Blue Hills Elementary School. In order to ensure that BHEF continues to be able to operate and support Blue Hills, our BHEF Board must be fully staffed. We are in great need of recruiting parent volunteers for BHEF positions that will be open in the 2021-22 school year due to family matriculation. Below is a list of items that BHEF would like to continue to support each and every school year... BUT WE NEED YOUR HELP AND VOLUNTEERISM TO DO SO :)

BH Tech Support

BH Art and Music teachers, Librarian, and Instructional Assistants (including live/interactive online sessions for groups or individuals)

Social-emotional program: Second Step

Professional development to enhance virtual learning, and literacy training for teachers

Events to help foster a sense of community and connectedness for BH students

Please email BHEF at BlueHillsEducationalFund@gmail.com or Principal Mitchell if you are interested in contributing as a BHEF Board Member in one of these positions:

BHEF Treasurer

Records income & expense entries in QuickBooks

Prepares P&L Statement for each board meeting

Sends out donation tax receipts

Manages annual budget

Handles finances for BHEF events

Maintains permanent records to track unit funds and financial transactions

Chairs budget committee and prepares annual budget for adoption by the association

Pays all BHEF bills as authorized by board

Prepares reports for every board meeting and an annual financial report

Ensures taxes and reports required by BHEF bylaws, insurance or federal and state governments are completed and submitted by the due dates

BHEF Parliamentarian

Assists the president to manage meetings and advises on parliamentary procedure

Chairs Bylaws committee to review unit Bylaws each year and revise Bylaws every three years

Arranges nominating committee’s first meeting, providing information on the nomination and election process

BHEF Secretary

Takes minutes at board meetings

Handles BHEF correspondence as directed by the president

Maintains and preserves BHEF records and important documents to pass on at the end of the term

BHEF President

Arranges nominating committee. Oversees and coordinates the work of an executive board to run BHEF effectively

Presides at BHEF board meetings

Serves as the official contact, communicator, and representative of a BHEF

Designated as an authorized signer for BHEF checks, contracts, and authorizations for payment

Serves as an ex-officio member of all committees except the nominating committee

Works with other BHEF leaders to connect families, school, and community to support student success

Thank you for your continued support!

Please visit the BHEF page on our Hub to learn more!

Warmly,

Ann Mitchell

Principal, Blue Hills Elementary School

"Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born"

Greetings Blue Hills,

This week is the beginning of The Great Kindness Challenge! This week (and every week) is a wonderful time to spread kindness to those around you and do something extraordinary to care for our community! This is a national event taking place between January 25th and January 29th. from HERE are some ways you and your family members can participate in this event from home! Learn more about The Great Kindness Challenge HERE!

This is a reminder that our school campus is closed. It is important that during school hours 7:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday through Friday, only staff are on our campus. Please help spread the word to our community. Thank you for your help and responsibility to keep Blue Hills a safe place to be!

Warmly,

Ann Mitchell
Principal, Blue Hills Elementary School
"Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born"

Greetings Blue Hills,

I hope you all had a wonderful Holiday Break and spent some much-needed time unwinding, relaxing and enjoying time with your family! We are ready to get back at it here at Blue Hills and cant wait to jump into the first week of school in the New Year!

Below, please take a look at some important information regarding CUSD Registration procedures.

Important information regarding Priority Registration & Open Enrollment for 2021-2022

Priority Registration - January 11, 2021- February 10, 2021

Priority Open Enrollment - January 27, 2021 - February 10, 2021

For more information, please visit the CUSD Registration Website for the Priority Registration NEW STUDENT INTEREST FORM and registration information.

For questions regarding registration please email:

registration_bluehills@cusdk8.org studentassignment@cusdk8.org

Coming Up…

• Thurs. 1/7 at 6:00pm - CUSD Board Meeting (Meeting link on CUSD home page at 5:45pm)

• Mon. 1/18 - MLK Day- No School

Warmly,

Ann Mitchell
Principal, Blue Hills Elementary School
"Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born"

Blue Hills,

Following last week’s Board Meeting, I felt it was important to summarize two important topics discussed. You can view the complete video at:

http://go.boarddocs.com/ca/cusdk8/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=BQE8F61DE11F.

Reopening of Schools Update

Staff shared information related to where we are in Phase 2A and our plans to go in Phase 2B (expansion of learning hubs) and 2C (site-based pilots). In the new year, sites will explore ways to further support students as described in the District’s Strategic Plan. The Board was in favor of exploring ways to reach more students in Phase 2B and 2C while continuing with the great work that is taking place through distance learning across the District. While waiting for conditions to improve, staff will look at expanding hubs and using in-person pods to provide more opportunities for sites to pilot innovative ways to enrich and support our student’s social-emotional wellness outside of distance learning.

Staff presented metrics that must be met prior to opening in Phase 3 and identified checkpoints over the next few months to review metrics and determine readiness. Metrics in green are complete.

Metric 1: Level of Community Spread

❏ Santa Clara County officially declares “Orange” on state tiered system and remains in “Orange” until the identified student return date

❏ SCCPH prediction that tier will remain stable or improve

Metric 2: Staffing Level

❏ Parent commitments finalized (# students in-person and # students DL only)

❏ Classroom and support staff fully in place (may include subs)

❏ Requests for leaves/accommodations addressed and implemented

❏ COVID-19 testing available for employees at no cost

Metric 3: Campus Readiness

❏ All school sites certified by Santa Clara County Public Health

❏ Site and District checklists completed. No outstanding critical needs.

Metric 4: Success of Current Phase

❏ No campus closures due to COVID cases for the prior 2 weeks

❏ Overall positive feedback (anecdotal) from staff and participants in the current phase; concerns addressed prior to launching the next phase

Staff also highlighted that all parents will be asked to complete a Parent Selection Form (Survey #2) by December 18, 2020, at 5 PM. In addition, the District’s Reopening Plan is available and will be updated as necessary.

Sample Phase 3 Hybrid Instructional Models were presented and discussed. Understanding parent’s desires and commitments are critical to finalizing Hybrid schedules as well as finalizing staffing and making modifications to student placements and teacher assignments.

Regardless of the model a family chooses for Phase 3, the Board expressed how important it is that students in both options receive rigorous learning opportunities and that both options provide equitable access to such learning experiences and opportunities in both time and content. It was stated that it is highly likely that a shift to Phase 3 will create a shift in teacher(s) for students. This lack of consistency raised concerns from Board Members based on community comments they have heard.

Building Long-Term Fiscal Stability

Over the past few months, the Board has heard and understands the desire of the community to identify ways to continue to bring in funds to the District without closing schools or limiting programs for students. Staff shared information regarding a potential Parcel Tax on the ballot in May 2021. The passage of a Parcel Tax in 2021 will allow CUSD to support our Strategic Plan and could guarantee:

● No new cuts to programs or positions in 2021-2022

● No school closures for 2021-2024

● Staff salary increases for the current year 2020-2021 and each year for the next 3 years ● No Structural Deficit in our multi-year projections

● Long-term financial stability

The Board indicated support for the District’s recommendation to place a Replacement Flat Rate Parcel Tax Measure on the May 4, 2021, ballot. The Replacement Flat Rate Parcel Tax Measure would include the current $250 Parcel Tax and increase the total amount to $398 for 8 years. If passed, this parcel tax would increase the annual dollar amount to CUSD by approximately $14M annually. The Board was supportive of the Parcel Tax amount and encouraged staff to pay keen attention to ways in which schools can enhance current programs for students, expand middle school offerings (including two electives), and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (intervention, social-emotional wellness, and mental health supports). Supporting the priorities outlined in our Strategic Plan is of critical importance to the Board moving forward as we allocate funds and priorities and are able to provide competitive compensation for our employees.

Moving forward, your engagement with the District is essential. Please join us as we continue discussing important topics with the Board. Between now and the end of 2020, there are a variety of opportunities for your engagement:

December 15, 2020, Special Board Meeting, 6 PM

December 17, 2020, Regular Board Meeting, 5 PM

No Later than 5 pm, December 18, 2020, complete the Parent Selection Form (Survey #2)

Once again, thank you for your partnership. Please remain safe with the new County Orders in place and we wish you and your family the very best during this holiday season.

Warmly,

Ann Mitchell
Principal, Blue Hills Elementary School
"Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born"

Dear Blue Hills Community,

This week is Inclusive Schools Week and we are celebrating, recognizing and showing respect to Blue Hills and CUSD members who are differently abled! Everyone has gifts and strengths to share and we are all welcomed as part of our school and district community!

Inclusive Schools Week is an annual event sponsored by the Inclusive Schools Network (ISN), which is held each year during the first full week in December. Since its inception in 2001, Inclusive Schools Week has celebrated the progress that schools have made in providing a supportive and quality education to an increasingly diverse student population, including students who are marginalized due to disability, gender, socio-economic status, cultural heritage, language preference, and other factors. The week also provides an important opportunity for educators, students and parents to discuss what else needs to be done in order to ensure that their schools continue to improve their ability to successfully educate all children.

This year, the Inclusive Schools Week’s theme is “The Time for Inclusion is Now!” Join us in celebrating Inclusive Schools Week December 7-11, 2020!Through our celebration of Inclusive Schools Week, let’s make certain that our definition of the term ‘inclusion’ is broad enough to encompass all aspects of the opportunities before us. ISN’s activities for celebrating each remaining month of this year will provide schools and communities with another vehicle for learning, growing and recognizing “The Time for Inclusion is NOW!”

Visit the Inclusive School Network (ISN) website to learn more at https://inclusiveschools.org/inclusive-schools-week/

Here are some inclusivity resources for Distance Learning:
https://inclusiveschools.org/distance-learning-resources/

Warmly,

Ms. Mitchell

Principal, Blue Hills Elementary School
"Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born"

Dear Blue Hills Community,

I know that the past week was probably very different from Thanksgiving weeks in the past but I hope you were able to relax and enjoy time together as a family. I loved getting outside for walks, catching up on some of my favorite shows, a little baking, and just relaxing with family. I also had time to reflect on how extremely grateful I am for our entire Blue Hills Community. I hope you and your family enjoyed some time together this past week as well.

Blue Hills Read-A-Thon:
It's Read-A-Thon month here at Blue Hills!​ Read books and help raise funds for our school! Please join us in our virtual Read-A-Thon and fundraiser! Give your family and friends a chance to support Blue Hills by sponsoring students as they read throughout the months of November and December. Now more than ever, our Blue Hills community needs each member's support to keep our school strong. Our Read-A-Thon is a healthy, simple, and fun way to contribute. Please consider donating on behalf of your student and inviting family members and friends to donate as well.

​Your student can keep track of their number of pages read on their own or they can download the reading log linked below. At the end of Read-a-Thon, inform your sponsors how much you read and what they agreed to donate. (And of course, flat donations are welcome all month as well.) The donate button can be found on our Blue Hills Read-A-Thon webpage or you can go to the PTA PayPal page at paypal.me/bluehillspta. Your Read-A-Thon donations support the PTA which helps make possible teacher classroom funds, Project Cornerstone, STEAM, Music, Art, Library, and lots of other important projects. Thank you for your donations and for being part of this special Blue Hills community. Ready, set, READ! :)

Report Cards:
The first trimester came to a close on Nov. 13, so teachers have been busy working on report cards over the last couple of weeks. Report cards will be made available to you electronically via the “Documents” tab in ParentVUE no later than December 9th at 5:00pm. Here are instructions on How to Access the Report Card in ParentVue.

I encourage you to review the “CUSD Parent’s Guide to the Report Card”. Scores will be provided in the areas of behaviors that support learning, work habits, and the academic areas. When you review the report card with your child, please use the report card to talk to your child about growth. Talk to them about what they’ve been learning and what they see as a next step. Don’t forget to celebrate their hard work so far! On behalf of the staff, we look forward to continuing to help your child(ren) grow this year!

Reminders / Upcoming Events

• Now through Dec 15th - Blue Hills Read-A-Thon

• Fri. 12/4 at 5:00pm - Report Cards Available through ParentVue

• 12/10 CUSD Board Meeting

• 12/17 CUSD Board Meeting

• 12/21-1/1 - Winter Recess - No School

Warmly,
Ms. Mitchell

Principal, Blue Hills Elementary School
"Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born"

Report Cards

The first trimester came to a close on Nov. 13, so teachers have been busy working on report cards over the last couple of weeks. Report cards will be made available to you electronically via the “Documents” tab in ParentVUE no later than December 9th at 5:00pm. Here are instructions on How to Access the Report Card in ParentVue.

I encourage you to review the “CUSD Parent’s Guide to the Report Card”. Scores will be provided in the areas of behaviors that support learning, work habits, and the academic areas. When you review the report card with your child, please use the report card to talk to your child about growth. Talk to them about what they’ve been learning and what they see as a next step. Don’t forget to celebrate their hard work so far! On behalf of the staff, we look forward to continuing to help your child(ren) grow this year!

Project Cornerstone - Giraffes Can’t Dance

This month, students will listen to the Project Cornerstone book Giraffes Can't Dance by Giles Andreae. This story tells the tale of Gerald the giraffe who is able to dance to his own tune when he gets some encouraging words from an unlikely friend. Click here to read information for parents and guardians about this month's lesson in optimism and personal power!

Reminders / Upcoming Events

• Mon., 11/30 - Charleston Wrap Fundraiser Begins (goes until Dec. 4)

• Fri. 12/4 at 5:00pm - Report Cards Available through ParentVue

• Sat. 12/5 4:00pm-8:00pm - Chipotle Dinner Night Fundraiser

• 12/10 CUSD Board Meeting

• 12/16 School Site Council Meeting

• 12/17 CUSD Board Meeting

• 12/21-1/1 - Winter Recess - No School

Dear Blue Hills Community,

As Cupertino Union School District (CUSD) plans for re-opening in January 2021, the District is seeking information from parents to determine what type of learning environment they prefer for their child when in-person/on-campus instruction resumes. This survey is the first of two surveys that parents will be asked to take. This first survey is not a commitment, but an opportunity to share your desires at this time.

This first survey aims to gather initial information from parents about their learning environment desires as the District prepares for Phase 3. Different Instructional Models for in-person learning are being explored by District staff, teacher leaders, and the Phase 3 Implementation Team. The District will provide information about the in-person learning model in the second survey so all parents will have access to more information. The District will require commitments at the time of the second survey, scheduled for the first week of December.

This survey must be completed by Monday, November 16, 2020, at 5 PM. You will be asked to complete the survey once for each child enrolled in a CUSD school. For a link to the survey, please check your email.

Warmly,

Ms. Mitchell

Principal, Blue Hills Elementary School
"Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born"

Dear Blue Hills Community,

Did you know that World Kindness Day is this Friday? We can celebrate all week - and all year! World Kindness Day is a global day that promotes the importance of being kind to each other, to yourself, and to the world. This day, celebrated on November 13 of each year, has the purpose is to help everyone understand that compassion for others is what binds us all together. This understanding has the power to bridge the gap between nations.

On World Kindness Day, groups and individual people are encouraged to go out of their way to be kind to others, whether that be at home, work, school, or just out in public. Celebrate by pledging to do at least one intentional act of kindness on that day to benefit someone else. It can be as straightforward or as involved as you like. No matter what you decide to do, your act of kindness will unite you with others dedicated to changing the world one kind act at a time.

This day is also meant to celebrate and encourage the good deeds that others already do. On World Kindness day, be sure to let others around you know how much you appreciate their kindness and generosity. Sometimes saying, “thank you,” is one of the kindest things you can do and probably isn’t heard as often as you’d think!

World Kindness Day Activities:
There are a lot of great ways to make World Kindness Day even more special. Maybe you’re looking for a more hands-on project as you celebrate WKD. Or perhaps you want something your family or students can do to remember why kindness is so important. Whatever you are looking for, these are some great examples of activities for World Kindness Day:

An excellent idea for the family while only using toothpaste and toothpicks

A reminder of the importance our words

Participate in The Kindness Rocks Project! Grab a rock painting kit and use your painted rocks to spread kindness.

A simple and fun way for kids to spread kindness is through sidewalk chalk

Don't forget to spread kindness today, and everyday, Blue Hills!

Warmly,

Ms. Mitchell

Principal, Blue Hills Elementary School
"Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born"

Dear Blue Hills Community,

I'd like to share some updates with you regarding our District's Phase 3 Plan. All students will continue in full distance learning until at least January 8, 2021. However, we are in the midst of planning for Phase 3 to ensure we meet and follow all requirements issued by the Public Health Department and the State. The return models in Phase 3 being explored will allow students opportunities to return to campus through a phased approach, gradually bringing grade levels back.

At the Board Meeting on November 5, 2020, the District will provide the Board (and community) with more concrete information about the January Phase 3 plans and what families can expect. We are in the process of developing a comprehensive community survey where families can indicate if they plan on returning regardless of the Phase 3 model, plan to remain in full Distance Learning or need more information before committing to a Phase 3 choice. Be on the lookout for continued communication.

Warmly,

Ms. Mitchell

Principal, Blue Hills Elementary School
"Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born"

Dear Blue Hills Community,

Thank you for all of the families who visited Blue Hills last week to pick up their student's learning materials from their teachers. I loved seeing all of our Blue Hills parents and students as they drove by, even if it was for just a short moment!

On Friday morning, I hosted my second Principals Coffee Event for our school community. I presented to our parents about our newest curriculum adoption at Blue Hills, our emotional curriculum Second Step! Please take a look at my slide deck to learn more about this curriculum and how it is currently being implemented in your student's classroom.

During the most recent CUSD Board Meeting (10/21), the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) made up of parents, community leaders, staff members, and Union leaders shared their process and final products to meet the Board Charge.

Each scenario presented by a CAC member identified the Board and CAC criteria met. A variety of schools were called out in the scenarios presented and I understand the sensitivity and emotion involved when school closures are discussed. I deeply appreciate and care for each and every one of you in our community and know that we must remain supportive of the process, kind to one another, and keenly focused on ensuring all students in the District have what they need to become creative, exemplary learners with the skills and enthusiasm to contribute to our community.

The intent of this meeting was to provide information to the Board and community. In subsequent Board Meetings, the Board will discuss and deliberate the pros and cons of presented scenarios. Following multiple conversations in October and November in public meetings, Trustees will determine the changes to be implemented. Please consider participating in each meeting to understand the discussion and planning, and to voice public comment.

As stated at the Board Meeting on 10/21:

“CUSD is more than the schools of which it is made up. It’s the combined energy and creative spirit of our teachers, families, administrators, and staff. We can think of this as a game of winners and losers. Or, we can see it as an opportunity to create a new CUSD. Holding true to the values that matter most and building together a tomorrow that fits in our pockets while still delivering the high-quality education we all want for our kids.

Let's do our best to embrace the changes that come with open hearts and open minds. We can model serenity in the face of adversity to our kids, or we can let our own anxieties taint their reactions. The more we repeat to them and ourselves that everything will be alright, everything will in fact be alright. Kids are more resilient than we give them credit for.”

Warmly,

Ms. Mitchell

Principal, Blue Hills Elementary School
"Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born"

Dear Blue Hills Community,

We have scheduled a mandatory Materials Pick-Up day to distribute the new Science curriculum workbooks and other items from your child’s teacher. Please adhere to the schedule below, and follow all health and safety guidelines to minimize contact.

If you have questions for Principal Mitchell, please email her at mitchell_ann@cusdk8.org If you have questions for our school’s Technology Specialist, Mr. Workman, please email him at workman_maxwell@cusdk8.org If you have questions for our school’s Attendance Secretary, Kim Yamada, please email her at yamada_kimberley@cusdk8.org If you have questions for your child’s teacher, please reach out directly.

Materials Distribution Date and Time Schedule:

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21st:

10:30 - 11:00am BH STAFF ONLY: DISTRIBUTION SET-UP

11:00 - 11:30 am TK & Kinder - Ms. Roberts, rm 1, Mrs. Jackson, rm 2 & Mrs. Jung, rm 3

11:30 am - 12:00 pm 1st grade - Mrs. Hunt, rm 8 & Mrs. Hickman, rm 20

12:00 - 12:30 pm 2nd grade - Mrs. Wu, rm 12, Mrs. Nieman, rm 13 & Ms. L. Moore, rm 19

12:30 - 1:00 pm 3rd grade - Mrs. Szeto, rm 16 & Mrs. K. Moore, rm 21

1:00 - 1:30 pm 4th grade - Mrs. Sterns, rm 10 & Mrs. Tamsen, rm 11

1:30 - 2:00 pm 5th grade - Mrs. Schmied, rm 5 & Ms. Jennings, rm 15

2:00 - 2:30 pm Make up time, for all grades

Note: Families with more than one child at Blue Hills will pick up materials for all their children at the scheduled time for their oldest child. (For example, a family with a 1st grader and a 5th grader will pick up materials for both children from 1:30-2:00 pm.)

Families who miss their assigned time can pick up materials from 2:00-2:30 pm only on Wednesday, October 21st.

TO KEEP EVERYONE SAFE AND MOVING QUICKLY

Please follow these instructions:

1. Have your child’s full name, teacher’s name and grade level written on a piece of paper. PLACE this sheet of paper in your car’s windshield on the passenger side.

2. Drive through the Blue Hills parking lot in the drop-off lane. Please STAY INSIDE YOUR CAR at all times. No one will be permitted to exit the vehicle.

3. The driver and all passengers in the car must wear a face covering at all times.

4. NO WALK UPs, DRIVE THROUGH ONLY! If your family does not have access to a vehicle, please email Principal Mitchell to talk about alternative materials pick-up procedures.

5. Pop your trunk open from inside the car, or roll down the back-seat passenger-side window and a staff member will drop the materials into your car. This limits staff contact with you. If possible, please keep the back passenger seat clear so that you can receive the materials.

6. Remember that this is a time to receive your student’s materials and supplies, not to chat with the teacher. If you have questions, or would like to talk with your child’s teacher, please reach out to set up a time to talk via phone or Google Meet.
   

Thank you for your attention to health and safety protocols and for your cooperation.

Warmly,

Ms. Mitchell
Principal, Blue Hills Elementary School
"Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born"

Greetings Bobcat Families!

Each year we join other Californians in participating in the International ShakeOut Day on the third Thursday of October, which this year is Thursday, October 15. There has been a lot of uncertainty over the past few months. Work environments are adapting and changing. Schools are considering how to operate. It seems like every day, we are confronting new challenges. Even though we are not on campus together, I encourage every family to make a plan together to prepare for an earthquake. We can and should still practice how to be safe when the earth shakes, especially when your situation changes.

This year, on October 15 at 10:15, families can participate in the Great California Shake-out . Please click HERE for more information on how you can participate and make a plan for your family and loved ones. In the event that a major emergency occurs, it is critical to have practiced safety procedures, such as “Drop, cover, and hold-on.” I hope that you can participate wherever you are with your family.

Blue Hills staff will be reviewing and updating our school's Emergency Plan that describes how our teams will working together for our overall safety in an emergency. When school is in session on campus, our emergency plan will be in place and communicated with our families.

None of us want to be involved in a real emergency, but practicing and being prepared will be key in keeping our kids and staff safe. Please be assured, the safety of our Bobcat students and staff is a top priority.

Warmly,

Ms. Mitchell
Principal, Blue Hills Elementary School
"Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born"

Greetings Bobcat Families!

Did you know that today is World Teachers' Day? This whole week, UNESCO will be celebrating and paying tribute to some of the most important people in our children's lives! Don't forget to do something special for you teacher and let them know how much they are appreciated! You can learn more about UNESCO's World Teacher's Day HERE

More Information from UNESCO on World Teachers' Day:

"In 2020, World Teachers’ Day will celebrate teachers with the theme “Teachers: Leading in crisis, reimagining the future”. The day provides the occasion to celebrate the teaching profession worldwide, take stock of achievements, and draw attention to the voices of teachers, who are at the heart of efforts to attain the global education target of leaving no one behind.

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly added to the challenges faced by already over-extended education systems throughout the world. It is no exaggeration to say that the world is at a crossroads and, now more than ever, we must work with teachers to protect the right to education and guide it into the unfolding landscape brought about by the pandemic.

The issue of teacher leadership in relation to crisis responses is not just timely, but critical in terms of the contributions teachers have made to provide remote learning, support vulnerable populations, re-open schools, and ensure that learning gaps have been mitigated. The discussions surrounding WTD will also address the role of teachers in building resilience and shaping the future of education and the teaching profession.

This year, in view of the current situation, the celebrations will take place online. As well as the World Teachers' Day Opening Ceremony and UNESCO-Hamdan Prize Awards Ceremony on 5 October, and the Closing Ceremony on 12 October, there will be a series of national, regional and global events throughout the week."

Above information from: https://en.unesco.org/commemorations/worldteachersday

Warmly,

Ms. Mitchell
Principal, Blue Hills Elementary School
"Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born"

Greetings Bobcat Families!

On Wednesday, September 30th Blue Hills will be hosting Dr. Blake Brandes for a Virtual Assembly for all of our TK-5th grade students. The school-wide assembly will take place at 10:00 AM.

Blake’s assemblies feature age-appropriate and engaging Growth Mindset and Grit lessons infused with beatboxing, comedic storytelling, and family-friendly freestyle rapping. The presentations are customized differently for elementary, middle, and high school students with stories, humor, and messages that resonate with each audience.

The outcomes of the Growth Mindset and Grit assemblies are to help students feel excited to learn new things (rather than feeling afraid or discouraged) and to help them keep going when they encounter challenges in their educational and personal lives, and are based on the research of Carol Dweck (author of Mindset) and Angela Duckworth (author of GRIT).

That same evening (September 30th at 6:00), parents and families will be invited to attend a Parent Ed Workshop with Blake Brandes. All Blue Hills Parents are invited to attend the Parent Ed workshop and are encouraged to bring their children to the event as well. In order to provide deeper support for students and their families, Blake will host a 45-minute Parent Ed Night presentation designed to support Blue Hills parents and guardians in understanding and implementing the Growth Mindset with their children. The evening also includes a Q&A for parents who are able to stay after the presentation.

Please click HERE to read more about our Virtual Assembly and Parent Ed Night

Please click HERE to read more about Blake Brandes

Blue Hills Elementary Virtual Growth Mindset Assembly
10:00-10:45am on Wednesday, Sept. 30
Check your email for Ms. Mitchell's blast with Zoom information or ask your teacher for the Zoom link and password

************AND**************

Blue Hills Elementary Virtual Growth Mindset Parent Night
6:00-7:00pm on Wednesday, Sept. 30
Check your email for Ms. Mitchel's blast with Zoom information or ask your teacher for the Zoom link and password

Looking forward to seeing all of our Bobcat Families on Wednesday!

Warmly,

Ms. Mitchell
Principal, Blue Hills Elementary School
"Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born"

• 10/7/20: DELAC - Imagine Learning Presentation
• 10/20/20: PAC/DELAC
• 12/8/20: PAC/DELAC
• 2/2/20: PAC/DELAC
• 2/9/20: DELAC only (10:30 - 12:30)
• 4/20/20: PAC/DELAC
• 5/25/20: PAC/DELAC

Greetings Blue Hills Bobcats,

We have made it to the second full week of instruction at Blue Hills! Teachers and specialists are working to the best of our abilities, to replicate what students would receive if they were back in our classrooms. We know kids need structure and consistency. This is why each grade level has developed a "Week at a Glance" structure, available here on our Hub, so that lessons and instruction occur at regular, predictable times of the day. It is very important that students and families treat our school's start time as you would if we were physically back in school. Students should have finished their breakfast, be dressed and be seated in at their work station and have the needed learning tools prepared and organized for the day. Students have scheduled live time with their teachers and time to work independently on projects or assignments, just like they would if we were back at school. We know it can be tricky to navigate getting on several meets throughout the day. Some parents have found it helpful to set an alarm or place a clock by the student’s work area. When that wonderful time comes and we can be physically back on campus, this consistency and structure will make for a much easier transition for our students.

Having tech problems? Sometimes it’s difficult for your teacher to be able to troubleshoot in the moment with you, if they have a class full of students waiting for instruction. Please use the following help desk to answer any questions/issues you may have:

https://sites.google.com/cusdk8.org/cusd-tech-help

In addition, you may find the following tech support videos helpful: Tech Support Videos for Parents:

● Google Classroom on laptops and Chromebooks

● Google Classroom on iPads

● Seesaw on laptops and Chromebooks

● Seesaw on iPads

Wishing you health and happy learning,

-Ms. Mitchell

Principal, Blue Hills Elementary School

“Not Unto Ourselves Alone Are We Born”

1. Have your child’s full name, teacher’s name and grade level written on a piece of paper. PLACE this sheet of paper in your car’s windshield on the passenger side.

2. Drive through the Blue Hills parking lot in the drop-off lane. Please STAY INSIDE YOUR CAR at all times. No one will be permitted to exit the vehicle.
3. Parent will display identification (Drivers License, Passport) on the windshield when the teacher gets to the car.
4. The driver and all passengers in the car must wear a face covering at all times.
5. NO WALK UPs, DRIVE THROUGH ONLY! If your family does not have access to a vehicle, please email Principal Mitchell to talk about alternative materials pick-up procedures.
6. Pop your trunk open from inside the car, or roll down the back-seat passenger-side window and a staff member will drop the materials into your car. This limits staff contact with you. If possible, please keep the back passenger seat clear so that you can receive the materials.
7. Remember that this is a time to receive your student’s materials and supplies, not to chat with the teacher. If you have questions, or would like to talk more with your teacher, please reach out to set up a time to talk via Meet or phone.