OWNCS Elementary PYP Newsletter

Principal's Message

Dear Families,

As we conclude this school year, our Pillar of Focus for June is Citizenship. Citizenship is about contributing positively to our community, taking responsibility for the world around us, and working together to create a better future.

This month, students will explore ways they can be active, caring members of their community—whether it’s helping a classmate, respecting shared spaces, or making a positive impact through service. Together, we’ll reflect on how we can carry these lessons forward into the summer and beyond.

As the school year comes to a close, I want to express my gratitude for your partnership and support. It has been a joy to see our students grow in character and knowledge. Let’s celebrate their achievements and look forward to the possibilities ahead.

Wishing you a safe and joyful summer!

With Gratitude,

Ms. Pryor

School Initiative

Pillar of the Month - Citizenship

This month, we’re focusing on Citizenship—the idea that every student has a role to play in making their community a better place. Being a good citizen means showing respect, taking responsibility, and caring about others at home, in school, and in the world around us. Whether it’s picking up trash, helping a classmate, or participating in school-wide projects, students are learning that their actions matter. Families can reinforce this at home by talking about kindness, fairness, and the importance of being part of a team—whether that team is a family, a classroom, or a community.
- I can be an inquirer at home by:
  - - Help with household responsibilities without being asked.
    - Be honest, respectful, and kind to family members.
    - Take care of shared spaces and clean up after yourself.
- I can be an inquirer at school by:
  - - Follow classroom rules and encourage others to do the same.
    - Include others in games and group work.
    - Stand up for what’s fair and kind—even when it's hard.
- I can be an inquirer in my community by:
  - - Help clean up your neighborhood or schoolyard.
    - Participate in community events or service projects.
    - Show respect for public spaces and the people around you.

Learner Profile of the Month - Thinker

At school, we encourage students to be Thinkers—children who use their minds to explore, solve problems, and make thoughtful decisions. Being a thinker means going beyond memorizing facts. It means asking meaningful questions, making connections, and applying what they learn in creative and responsible ways. By developing this skill, students become more independent, reflective, and confident in their ability to face challenges. At home, families can support this trait by encouraging children to explain their thinking, consider different perspectives, and find solutions when things don’t go as planned.
- I can be reflective at home by:
  - - Solve real-life problems (e.g., create a plan for organizing your room).
    - Play strategy games or puzzles that challenge your brain.
    - Ask “What if…?” questions during reading or conversations to explore new ideas.
- I can be reflective at school by:
  - - Think of more than one way to solve a math or science problem.
    - Reflect on your work and make improvements based on feedback.
    - Join class discussions and explain why you think the way you do.
- I can be reflective in my community by:
  - - Think of creative ways to help others (e.g., make a kindness calendar).
    - Ask questions about how things work in your neighborhood or city.
    - Use your voice to suggest improvements for your school or park.

Community Spotlight:

Current Events

The entire school worked hard to complete the final Spelling Bee of the year—what an exciting way to celebrate our learning! Meanwhile, our kindergarten students have been busy planning out a beautiful garden for the roof. We are so excited and proud of their incredible initiative to help our school grow—literally and figuratively! Thank you, kindergarten, for the beauty you intend to add to our school community and for helping us start the new school year with something truly special.

Upcoming Events

As the school year comes to a close, we wish everyone a happy, safe, and fun-filled summer! May all the "flowers" of knowledge and experiences you’ve gathered this year blossom into a beautiful garden of growth over the summer. As a school community, we look forward to continuing our journey together, supporting and guiding students as they take their next steps in learning and discovery.

Literature Suggestions for Thinkers:

The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes

This is a story co-written by Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein. It is about Beatrice, who is known for never making mistakes, until she finally does. This thoughtful story shows how thinking through problems, learning from errors, and embracing imperfection are part of being a true thinker. It encourages kids to reflect, make decisions, and grow through challenges.

Not a Box

This simple yet powerful story authored by Antoinette Portis, follows a young rabbit who uses a cardboard box to imagine endless possibilities—from a rocket ship to a robot suit. The book celebrates creativity, problem-solving, and independent thinking. It encourages students to think beyond what they see, make connections, and use their imagination to explore and invent—hallmarks of being a true thinker.

If I Built a School

In this imaginative and creative story written by Chris Van Dusen, a boy named Jack dreams up the perfect school—complete with hover desks, a zoo, and robots that make lunch. As Jack explains his vision, readers see him thinking critically and creatively to solve problems and design a space where learning is exciting. The book celebrates innovation, imagination, and the kind of bold thinking that pushes ideas forward.

Page updated

Report abuse