Tuesday, April 12th
Dear Families,
Spring is a busy time of year in many ways and there is a lot happening within the walls (and beyond) of King. Expeditions are launching, students are starting spring sports, and we are able to get outside and use the outdoors regularly. These activities are invigorating as we return to some sense of normalcy while we look forward to how things will be in the future.
We also continue to be responsive to the needs of our students and influencers beyond our control that impact the learning environment. Recently we have learned of the latest TikTok challenge which is very concerning. The Orbeez Challenge, involves using air guns to shoot people with BB sized pellets of water called Orbeez. These can cause injury if striking a person and there is concern that the guns could be mistaken for actual firearms. The use of BB guns have also been associated with this challenge. Please see this article for more information and share the seriousness of these actions with your student.
Another challenge we face is the use of cell phones during school hours. Our policy is for phones to be off and away, ideally in a backpack. Please help to support this messaging at home.
Thank you for your continued support and please don't hesitate to email kingsecretary@portlandschools.org with any questions.
Caitlin LeClair
Celebrations and Highlights
There was a school-wide door decorating contest with the theme of "Spring Into King". Every Crew had 2 weeks to decorate their classroom door and there are some amazing works of art throughout the school. Today the doors were judged and tomorrow we will reveal the name of the team that earned the most points. The team that wins will get to eat from an ice-cream truck that will come to King in May.
Today the Moxie team had a kick-off for their spring expedition. Students were out in the community interviewing people, learning new video and recording technology, and making maps.
Important Dates:
April 18-22: No School
May 26: 7th grade students are dismissed at 11:50 for 6th grade Step Up Day
June 14: Last Student day. 11:50 dismissal
Now Hiring!
Monhegan students spent the day on Monday, April 11 learning about a multitude of career opportunities within walking distance of KMS. At 9am students left the building to explore one of four local job sites: Hannaford Supermarket, Hadlock Field, The Westin Portland Harborview Hotel and Deering Oaks Park. From 11-1 students stayed on campus and seven employers from around the city drove to them. Students explored public works, utility, and emergency services vehicles. Crew members talked to students about their jobs, explaining required training and skills, compensation, and what each of them likes best about what they do. A huge thank you to the Portland Fire Department, CMP, North East Mobile Health Services, City of Portland Public Works, City of Portland Parks Department, Forest Ave. Hannaford Supermarket, the Portland Seadogs, and The Westin Portland Harborview for making this a truly memorable experience for our students!
