DECEMBER 2024 Pre-K Newsletter
Happy Advent to all! May we all use this time to reflect on the glory of our Savior.
I am excited for our Christmas Concert on Dec. 11, at 5:00 p.m.! We’ve been practicing every day. I sent lyrics home last month but if you need a copy, please let me know. It’s called Shine A Light For Peace and it can be found on youtube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BCEsJyha1Tc
We will have a Scholastic Book order due 12/5. https://orders.scholastic.com/GZX4H
As always, please help your child remember to bring a coat for outdoor recess. It’s been frosty out there, and we still try to run outside every day if it isn’t raining (or too cold!) Also, as a reminder, please be sure to notify me and the school if your child is out sick or has different pick up plans.
This month’s studies are the letters Hh, Cc, and numbers 10 & 11. The shape of the month is Star, and the color is yellow. The themes are Winter Holidays, Polar Animals, and Christmas!
Some important dates~
December 5th - Free Dress Festive sweaters or sweatshirts, Scholastic Book order due (Pre-School)
December 5th - Parish Penance Service at 6:30 pm
December 9th - Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception (A Holy Day of Obligation)
December 11th - Christmas Concert 5 PM
December 13th - Noon Dismissal (Professional Development)
December 21- Jan 5 - Christmas Break
We will have a classroom Christmas party on Dec. 19 at 10:00 a.m. I will have a sign-up sheet posted outside my classroom for party treats probably next week or so. I would like to do a gently used or new book (valued under $5.00) exchange. I’ll send more info closer to the date.
My email is mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org if you have any concerns.
Sincerely, Mrs. Phillips ♡
NOVEMBER 2024 PRE-K NEWSLETTER
I don’t know who said, “Fall is my favorite color”, but I’ve noticed the changing leaves this year more so than previous years.The trees just seem more vibrant! It’s certainly due to October’s sunny days and cool nights. I think this change is what makes November the month of gratitude and reflection. We are so fortunate to live in the PNW!
Now that it’s cooler during the day, please help your child remember to bring a coat to school. We try to go outside for recess as much as possible unless it’s too wet or too cold to do so.
This month we will be learning about Veterans, leaves, indigenous people, Thanksgiving and hibernation. We will also study the letters Xx, Vv, and Ll, and the numbers 7,8,9, the shape- square and the color brown. We continue to work on correct pincer grip, especially while holding a writing instrument. My big ask is that you please help us enforce this at home. It’s easier to form correct habits than to correct them later.
We will have a Scholastic book order due 11/7. Our classroom code is GZX4H. You may place orders at https://orders.scholastic.com/GZX4H
Here are some important dates~
November 7th - Free Dress Day and Scholastic book order due (Pre-K)
November 11th - No School - Veterans Day
November 27th - 11 am dismissal
November 28th -29th No school - Thanksgiving break
December 11th - Christmas Concert 5 PM
December 13th - Noon Dismissal (Professional Development)
December 21- Jan 5 - Christmas Break
Don’t forget to “Fall back” November 3rd! Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns. My email is mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org
❤ Mrs. Phillips
Pre-K NEWSLETTER OCTOBER 2024
Hello Pre-K families! It’s hard to believe it’s October already! Fall is definitely in the air.
We’ve been so blessed with beautiful weather. I hope it holds out for most of October. Speaking of which, there is a grey jacket in my classroom that has been unclaimed for about 3 weeks. If your child came home without one, check with me! I also found a piece of jewelry. If your child lost it, I have it in my desk for safekeeping, just have them ask me or send me an email to claim it.
This month we are studying the letters Ff and Pp, and the numbers 3,4,5, and 6. The color is orange and the shape - triangle. Our themes are Spiders, Owls, Fire Safety, the Voting Process, and Pumpkins.
We will have a field trip on Oct. 22 to a Pumpkin Patch. Watch for permission slips to come home. Also, we will have another Scholastic Book Order due Thurs. Oct. 10. Our classroom code is GZX4H. Place orders at clubs.scholastic.com
I would like to have a Halloween Party on the 31st, and even though there are some students who do not join us on that day, I would like to welcome them to the festivities. I will be sending more out on that later in the month so watch for that, as well!
Here are some important dates~
October 3rd - Free Dress Day (refer to handbook for dress down day guidelines)
October 4th - Raffle Drawing 2:45/Blessing of the Animals 2:50
October 10th - Spirit Day - Students may wear their logo wear Mustang t-shirts with uniform pants/shorts/skirt, also Scholastic Book order due (Pre-K)
October 11th - No School (Statewide Teacher Inservice Day)
October 14th - No School for Conference Day
October 15th - Picture Retake Day
October 20th - Sunday Mass (SPPS Participation 1st-8th grade)
October 22nd - Pumpkin Patch Field trip
Thank you for keeping communications open by discussing your child’s needs with me. If you can’t catch me in the carline, send me an email. Or, if your child will be absent or is being picked up by somebody else, please include me in the email to the office to keep me in the loop. My email is mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org .
Have a wonderful October!
Sincerely, ♡ Mrs. Phillips
Pre-K NEWSLETTER SEPTEMBER 2024
Welcome all new and returning Pre-K students and families! I hope your summer break was full of joyful memory-making activities and plenty of recharging as well. I was able to get away for a few trips and spend some quality time with family and friends. For those of you who have been inquiring about Mr. Phillips- his stroke last Spring was scary and threw us into uncertainty, but his recovery has been remarkable and he’s back to his ornery self! Thank you for your prayers.
I’m excited to share our new strategy for optimizing learning time this year. Our 3’s group and 4’s group will be in separate rooms during small group rotations Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Our mornings will start and end together, but we hope this one difference will cut down on distractions. The 3’s group will be led by Tori Wolf and I will continue to teach the 4’s group. This is the only major change to our classroom routine.
The studies for September are the letters Kk, Ss, Aa -
The numbers 0,1,2 and the shape- Circle.
Our themes are school feelings, kindness, listening ears, Johnny Appleseed.
We will have a Scholastic book order due 9/12.
Important dates~
9/2 Labor Day - Holiday (No school)
9/3 First Day of School
9/5 Back to School Night/BBQ
9/12 Scholastic Book orders due (Pre-K) and school pictures
I hope you are as excited as I am for the new school year! Please note in addition to the hardcopy of the monthly newsletter, it can also be found on the school’s website. Go to the Saint Paul Parochial School site, touch the “current families” tab, drop down to “Preschool blog”.
My email address is mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org
Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns. I also ask that if for any reason your child is not able to attend class, has a change in who picks them up, or has alternative plans of any kind, please let me know via email and include the office.
Sincerely, Mrs. Phillips ♡
Pre-K FAQs
Birthdays
If you would like to celebrate your child’s birthday with the class, please let me know in advance. Just shoot me an email so I can schedule it. We can celebrate after learning centers and before recess, about 10:00 a.m. Treats can be a small cupcake, cookie, bag of goldfish, etc., and a small cup of juice.
Book orders
Scholastic book orders are a great way to both support your child’s love of books and give the classroom points to get resources. Our classroom code is GZX4H. I may not send a flyer home every month, but that doesn’t mean you cannot order. It might mean your order is sent with the next classroom order.
Drop-off
Arrival is 7:45 and assembly starts at 7:55. Occasionally we get tearful or sad at drop-off. This is normal and somewhat expected. To discourage prolonged crying, I recommend a quick drop-off when starting school. You may accompany them in to the building the first month or so to get them settled. If your child can find the classroom alone, even better! Our goal is to instill confidence and ownership of their space through familiar routines.
Newsletter
As I mentioned in the September newsletter, you will receive a hardcopy at the first of every month, and it can also be found on the school website. It will keep you briefed on our monthly activities.
Recess
We strive for outdoor recess every day from 10:30 to dismissal. If it’s rainy, too cold, or too hot (!) we have indoor recess in the classroom. Be sure to have your child bring coats or jackets in the event it’s cool and we do go outside.
Parent volunteers
We have wonderful Assistants in Pre-K; Ms. Halsey, Ms. Marlie, Mrs. Nicklous. We typically wouldn’t need extra help in the classroom unless it’s a big project or field trip. I will always let you know in advance.
JUNE 2024 Pre-K Newsletter
As the school year comes to a close I would like the pre-K parents to know what a privilege it has been to spend my mornings teaching your children. I’m proud of their accomplishments! For those returning to me next year, I love your enthusiasm and look forward to another fun year of skill building. And for those moving on to Kindergarten next year, I am confident they are prepared and eager to continue a lifetime journey of learning.
And speaking of moving on to Kinder- my 4’s group will have a brief graduation ceremony at 10:45 on Tuesday, June 11 in the classroom with treats. (Sign up sheet outside classroom.) Parents are welcome to join us! Let us congratulate them;
Gavin Everett Alithia
Treyton Enzo Sutton
Abigail Addison Harley
Fred Josephine Jocelyn
Parker Alexandra Adley
This month we are studying the letter Yy and doing a shape, number, alphabet review. Our theme is Summer Safety. Here are some important dates;
June 3rd- Dress Down Day: Mismatch Day
June 4th- Dress Down Day: Tie Dye/Tropical
June 5th- Dress Down Day: SuperHero
June 6th- Dress Down Day: Red White Blue
8th Grade Graduation 7 PM
June 7th - No School - Conferences as needed
June 10th- Kickball Tournament
June 11th - Preschool Graduation 10:45 AM
Field Day (1:00) and Talent Show (2:15)
June 12th - Last Day of School 11 AM Dismissal
Also, we have been enjoying some end of the year show-and-share time. The schedule was sent home last week. It can also be found on the blog. The remainder is as follows-
Tuesday June 4
Abigail
Parker
Alithia
Louis
Gavin
Wednesday June 5
Sage S.
Grace
Rhys
Sutton
Thursday June 6
Remi
Lorene
Everett
Treyton
*RESCHEDULED- LAST CHANCE!
Tuesday June 11
Harley
Kate
Addison
Sage B.
I ask that you please encourage fine motor development with your child over the summer by doing any tracing, handwriting practice, coloring, play-doh, etc,. I hope your summer is also filled with the kind of events and occasions that build happy memories. I look forward to hearing all about them next Fall!
Sincerely, 💚 Mrs. Phillips
Show-and-Share Schedule
Wednesday May 29
Enzo
Fred
Harley -------------------------> Make-up day June 11
Jocelyn
Thursday May 30
Treyton ----------------------> Make-up day June 6
Addison -----------------------> Make up day June 11
Adley
Charlotte
Arlo
Tuesday June 4
Abigail
Parker
Alithia
Louis
Gavin
Wednesday June 5
Sage S.
Grace
Rhys
Sutton
Thursday June 6
Remi
Lorene
Sage B.-----------> Make up day June 11
Everett
Kate--------------> Make up day June 11
MAY 2024 Newsletter SPPS Pre-K
It’s a busy wrap-up to a busy year, but we’re almost there! Pre-K has been practicing a song for the spring concert (May 23rd). Lyrics went home the last part of April for “What I Am”. Please let me know if you need another copy. It can be found on Youtube (look for muppets!).
We have been raising caterpillars in the classroom for the last 3 weeks. They are chrysalids, currently undergoing metamorphosis, and about to emerge as Painted Lady butterflies. When they are ready, we will set them outside and wish them well. This is one of my favorite Pre-K activities. The classroom as a whole is pretty excited for them! Ask your child to explain the process!
We will have the final Scholastic book order of the year this month. Orders due by 5/14. The link to order with classroom code is https://orders.scholastic.com/GZX4H
Or, to shop by flyers https://clubs.scholastic.com/all-flyers
May studies include letters Ii, Ff, Oo and a 1-20 number review. Shape; crescent and color; blue. Our themes are insects, Ocean animals and National symbols.
IMPORTANT DATES~
May 14th - Scholastic Book Order due (Pre-K)
May 21st - Kinder visits 9:00-9:30, Pre-K open house 3-4:00
May 23rd - Spring Concert
May 27th - No School Memorial Day
June 12th - Last day of school
Please contact me with questions or concerns. My email is mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org Don’t forget this newsletter can also be found on the Preschool blog at the school’s website.
Sincerely, ❤ Mrs. Phillips
APRIL 2024 Pre-K Newsletter
“Spring: A reminder of how beautiful change can really be.”- Unknown
Welcome back from Spring Break! I hope everyone had a wonderful, relaxing break spent with family and friends. I wish you all the blessings of the Easter season.
Don’t forget to have your child redeem their Spring Break Homework for a prize. They can bring them in on any weekday this month.
This month in Pre-K will be busy. We will learn about the coming Solar Eclipse, Animal babies, Plants, & Earth Day. We will study the color purple, diamond or rhombus, the letters Uu, Gg, Xx, Zz, and numbers 19 & 20.
We will have a Scholastic book order due April 9.
https://orders.scholastic.com/GZX4H click on Books and Resources and shop by age/grade. Or shop by flyers https://clubs.scholastic.com/all-flyers
Here are some important dates~
April 8th - Solar Eclipse from 10:30-12:15 (only 26% in Oregon)
April 9th - Scholastic Book Orders due (Pre-K)
April 12th - 11 AM Dismissal (Archdiocesan Inservice)
April 25th - Spring Photos
As always, please contact me with any questions or concerns, or if your child will be out for any reason.
My email is mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org.
Happy Spring! ❤ Mrs. Phillips
MARCH 2024 SPPS Pre-K Newsletter
It looks like March is coming in like a lion - or maybe I’m just tired of the cold and wet weather! But Spring will begin later this month and I LOVE Spring! Rainbows, baby animals, Spring flowers… “Each time a flower blooms, the world is reminded that there is beauty in new beginnings.” (regards to M. Dhliwayo)
This month we will be talking about Reading Across America, Spring Weather, Women’s History Month, Hedgehogs, St. Patrick’s Day, and Easter.
Our March studies will include the letter Bb, and the numbers 16, 17, 18. Our shape of the month is ovals, and the color green.
We will have a Scholastic Book Club order due March 7. Please see attached flyer. You can go to https://orders.scholastic.com/GZX4H to view other flyers and to place your order. I will automatically be notified by Scholastic via email to submit our classroom orders. Your book orders give our classroom points to use for new classroom books and various other resources.
~Important Dates~
March 1st - 11 AM Dismissal - SPPS Professional Development
March 3rd- SPPS Sunday Mass 9 AM
March 6th - Report Cards sent home
March 7th - Free Dress - First Thursday of the month & Pre-K book order due
March 25-29 - No School - Spring Break
April 1st - School Resumes
If you have questions or concerns, please contact me at mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org
Have a wonderful March! ☘❤ Mrs. Phillips
February 2024 Pre-K Newsletter
Happy Heart month! I’m really excited about February for a couple of reasons.
Firstly, the field trip to the Oregon Children’s Theatre’s production of “Goodnight Moon” on Tuesday, February 6th at 10:15 a.m. I can’t wait!
Next, we will have a Valentines party on Tuesday,Feb.13 at 10:00 a.m. instead of the 14th. This was a school-wide decision because Ash Wednesday falls on the 14th this year. We will have a Valentine exchange so I’ve provided a class list (with newsletter hardcopy). The valentines can be homemade, store bought, or purchase candygrams from the 5th & 6th graders. If you buy candygrams, you buy them at school in advance, take them home to fill them out, and return them to the 5&6th graders to add a piece of candy, then they deliver them to the classroom. I will have a sign-up sheet outside the classroom for party food (drinks and cupcake or cookie).
There will be a Scholastic Book order due Feb. 8th. Site; https://orders.scholastic.com/GZX4H
Our February studies are the letters Mm, Ee,Tt, Dd and the numbers 13, 14, 15, 16.
The color- pink, the shape- heart. Themes are Black History Month, Lunar New Year, President’s Day and Dental Health.
Important dates~
February 2nd - No School - Staff Faith Formation Day
February 3rd - Auction
February 5th - Conferences as Needed
February 8th - Dress Down Day (for 1st Thursday of the month)
February 19th - No School - Presidents' Day
February 20th - No School - Professional Development
Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns. My email is mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org
♡ Mrs. Phillips
January 2024 Pre-K Newsletter
First, I’d like to wish everyone a happy and healthy New Year! As busy as I was on Break, I still missed everyone and hope they had a wonderful, magical Christmas.
The Pre-K basket for the school auction is coming along. Our theme is “Games”. We have until January 10th to complete our basket. We still need some small games for any age group and I was thinking there would be many sales after Christmas to make it easier. Thank you in advance for supporting the school auction.
This month’s studies are the letters Qq, Ww, and Jj. Numbers 11,12,13. The shape is rectangle, and the color white. Themes for January include Penguins, Winter (hibernation), and Dr. MLK Jr. We will have a Scholastic book order Jan. 9. Please use this address when ordering online- (you can also access catalogs there)
https://orders.scholastic.com/GZX4H
Here are some important dates~
January 9th - Scholastic Book orders due (Pre-K)
January 12th - 11 AM Dismissal (Professional Development Day)
January 15th - No School (Martin Luther King Jr Day)
January 17th - Progress Reports
January 30-February 3rd - Catholic Schools Week (watch school’s weekly newsletter for schedule of events)
February 4th - SPPS Dinner Dance Auction
Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns. My email address is mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org
Sincerely, Mrs. Phillips
DECEMBER 2023 SPPS Pre-K NEWSLETTER
Happy Advent season. May His light shine on our hearts to prepare us for His birth. The first Sunday of Advent is Dec. 3.
The Christmas Musical is Dec. 6 at 6:00 p.m. at the Community Hall. We have been practicing the song “What Christmas Is About” and lyrics were sent home the week after Halloween.
Pre-K will sing first, so please drop your child with me at 5:50 downstairs before going upstairs to find a seat. When we are finished singing, your child will join you in the audience.
There will be no December Scholastic book order.
There were some topics we didn’t get to in November, so we will cover them in December. We will be studying Indiginous People and Winter Holidays, the letter Ll, and numbers 9, 10.
We will have a Christmas Party and book exchange on December 14th at 10:00 a.m. Please bring a wrapped, new or gently used book (valued under $5.00) to exchange. I will have a sign up sheet for party treats posted outside the classroom. I hope everyone can join us even if it isn’t their regular school day.
Important Dates~
December 6th - SPPS Musical at the City Hall 6:00 pm
December 18th - January 1st Christmas Break
January 2nd - School Resumes
Please contact me with concerns or questions at mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org
May the Christmas spirit be with you the whole month through.
♥️ Mrs. Phillips
November 2023 Pre-K Newsletter
What a beautiful Fall it’s been with all the sunshine and colorful trees. My least favorite part is the rain and frost, of course, but I am thankful for Autumn and I remember how lucky we are to have the varied seasons as some places on Earth do not experience it the same.
It’s getting cold out there! A quick reminder to send your child to school with a
coat or jacket so they may enjoy outdoor recess!
The November schoolwide service project is to collect canned food for a local food bank. Each classroom will focus on contributing specific things. They’ve asked Pre-K students to bring in peanut butter and jelly/jam up to Nov. 22. Let’s do our part to make it a success!
November themes are; Veterans, Indigenous Peoples, Giving Thanks
November studies are; The letters Vv and Ll, numbers 6,7,8, the color brown, and squares.
Scholastic Book orders will be due Nov. 8. (Classroom code GZX4H)
Important Dates~
October 30th - No School - Accreditation Day
November 1st - All Saints Day Mass 2 PM
November 8th - Scholastic Book orders due (Pre-K)
November 10th - No School (Veterans Day)
November 22nd - Report Cards go out/ 11 AM dismissal/last day of canned food drive
November 23rd-24th - No School for Thanksgiving
As always, please notify me if you have questions or concerns. My email is
mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org
Also please be sure to include me in emails to the office when your child will be absent.
Have a beautiful November!
Sincerely, Mrs. Phillips
October 2023 SPPS Pre-K Newsletter
Happy Autumn! September flew by so fast! As my Dad used to say, “Time flies like an arrow but fruit flies like a banana!” Corny, I know, but my Dad was the King of Dad Jokes.
The Pre-K classroom has settled into learning groups and daily routines. I am not surprised to learn that their favorite subject is recess! But hopefully they will never lose the curiosity it takes to become a life-long learner. I strive to make that process fun and engaging for them.
We have already planned our first field trip to the Pumpkin Patch, (Oct. 10) and permission slips will be coming home soon. Watch for them in your child’s backpack.
This month’s studies are;
The letters Aa, Rr, Cc, Pp and the numbers 3,4,5. The color is orange, the shape of the month is triangle. This month’s themes are apples, pumpkins, nocturnal animals, and robots.
Here are some important dates~
October 2nd CASE Training for Volunteers 6 PM
October 8th SPPS Sunday Mass
October 12th Picture Retakes
October 13th No School - Professional Development Day
October 16th Conferences (No School)
October 20th Blessing of the Animals
October 25-27th SPPS Accreditation Visit
October 27th - 11 AM Dismissal -Accreditation Presentation
October 30th - No School - Accreditation Day
October 31st - Halloween parties in classrooms
The Pre-K Halloween party will be on Tues. Oct. 31 at 10:00 a.m. Students may bring a costume to change into for the party. We will have fun activities like cookie decorating, games and a craft. A sign-up sheet for drinks, sugar cookies, frosting, etc will be posted outside the classroom. If you are able to provide any of these items, please sign up.
Scholastic Book clubs are now digital. If you would like to order books through Scholastic, use this address- https://orders.scholastic.com/GZX4H . Orders are due 10/11/23 and I will place the orders no later than 10/16/23. Points earned by your orders provide free books for the classroom. Please contact me with any questions or concerns at mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org , ❤️ Mrs. Phillips
P.S. - Pre-K Parents!
Pre-K will celebrate Halloween on Tuesday Oct 31 at 10:00 a.m.! Have them bring a costume that is easy to change into! We will have drinks and treats, thanks to some generous families. (There will be more opportunities to sign up for treats later in the year.) A reminder of the list;
Frosting - Rebekah Goldman (rec’d, thank you!)
Frosting - Parker Reed
2 doz plain sugar cookies to decorate Halloween themed - Dayl Hazenberg
Pumpkin pie bites - Heather Trotter
Jug of juice - Alex Wells
I have all the rest. You are welcome to join us. This is going to be FUN!
Pre-K SEPTEMBER 2023 Newsletter
WELCOME all new and returning Pre-K families! I hope everyone had a spectacular Summer! I’m excited to start the school year and hope you are, too. I have been at St. Paul Parochial for 17 years and teaching Pre-K for 16 of those years. I like to keep everyone informed with a Monthly newsletter which is also posted on the Preschool Blog. It can be found on the school website under “Current Families”.
Here are the September Studies; Virtue of the month;
Letters Ss, Kk, Nn, Hh Kindness
Numbers 0, 1,2,3
Shape -Circle, Color -Red
Our September Themes;
School, Kindness, Neighborhoods, and How Animals Say “Hello”
~Important Dates~
9/4 - Labor Day (No School)
9/5 - First Day of School
9/12 - School Picture Day
9/13 - Back to school night/BBQ
Drop-off can feel scary at first for some children. It is ok to drop your child off at the classroom for the first few days as your child becomes familiar with the classroom. After the first few days, parents usually drop their children off at the door and let them travel through the hallway to the classroom independently. This helps the students gain confidence and establish a healthy love for school through familiar routines.
Our approximate daily schedule is as follows;
7:55 Assembly
8:00 Return to classroom for Circle Time, Calendar
8:20 Rotations (Reading, Writing, Computer, Puzzle/Games, Potty breaks)
10:00 Story/Singing time, Mystery Science, or Weekly Reader Movie
10:30 Recess
11:00 Dismissal. Please notify me in advance if your child will be going to the Early Learning Center or Car line, or will be picked up by someone other than yourself.
Please feel free to contact me with concerns or questions, or change in pick-up plans, or if your child will be out due to illness, family trips, etc,. My email address is mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org
Sincerely, Mrs. Phillips
JUNE 2023 NEWSLETTER SPPS Pre-K
And just like that…we find ourselves at the end of the school year! The students, Mrs. Gray, Mrs. Nicklous and I have shared a lot of memories and have had fun learning and growing.Thank you for a rewarding year, and know that memories of your children will always be with me.
I’d also like to express how pleased I am with their performance at the Spring Concert last week. Their teamwork skills were tested and they did a great job!
We will have a Graduation ceremony at 8:00 a.m. on 6/12 during morning prayer for the 4’s group. Parents are welcome to join us! Those students advancing to Kindergarten next Fall are;
Adelaide Callen Charlie Cruz Elijah Kieran Lonnie
Lynnly Nataleigh Orion Royce Samuel Stella Stetson Xavien
The last few days left will be spent reviewing and wrapping up. Your child is welcome to come and join in our field day activities on June 13th at 2:00. Please email the office to let them know they will attend, so they can be placed on a team.
DATES TO REMEMBER
May 31 - June 2 - 5th/6th grade Outdoor School
June 1st - First Thursday of the month free dress
June 7th - Talent Show 2:15 pm
June 8th - 8th grade graduation 7 pm
June 9th - No School (Conferences as needed)
June 12th - Pre-K Graduation during morning assembly 8 am
June 13th - Field Day 2:00 PM
June 14th- Last Day (11 am Dismissal)
As always, please contact me with any questions or concerns. My email address is mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org Have a wonderful summer.
~ Mrs. Phillips
SPPS Pre-K MAY 2023 NEWSLETTER
Happy, Happy May! The trees have finally leafed-out and the flowers are bursting! It seems everything is a little later this year but, better late than never! I hope you’re enjoying Spring.
Last month we learned so much about ways to keep our Earth healthy, including recycling, planting, and composting. We also learned about habitats, food chains, and endangered animals. They seemed very engaged and interested. Ask them what they learned or found interesting!
We have been practicing The Kindness Song for the concert May 24. We abbreviated it to the chorus, one verse, and the chorus again. If you need a copy of the lyrics please let me know.
I really loved hearing about our pets! For the month of May I would like each student to bring one (1) favorite toy for show and share. I expect them to really talk about it, though, with little to no prompting. To make this work, I will assign when they may participate, (see below). Students may bring a toy to talk about during their assigned week on any day except Fridays . If you need to switch, let me know! If they miss their week, then they may try again on the 30th or 31st of May for a “make-up” show and share.
Show And Share Schedule
May 1-4 - Charlie, Xavien, Adelaide, Royce, Stetson
May 8-11 - Kieran, Harley, Lonnie, Stella, Callen, Treyton,
May 15-18 - Elijah, Lynnly, Samuel, Jocelyn, Cruz, Gavin
May 22-25 - Addison, Orion, Frederick, Nataleigh, Sutton
May 30, 31 - Make-ups
This month, we will be studying the crescent shape, the color blue, the letters Oo, Qq, and Zz. There will be more review of our numbers and math concepts like symmetry. We will also learn about hermit crabs and bubble science. We will have a ‘last chance’ to order books through Scholastic. Due date on final orders of the school year is May 11. I will not do a June order.
DATES TO REMEMBER
April 27th - CASE training 3 pm
May 4th - Free Dress (first Thursday of the month)
May 24th - Spring Musical 4:30 pm at the St Paul Community Hall
May 26th - Noon Dismissal
May 26th - Art Show (Muffins for Moms/Donuts for Dads) 7:30-8:15 AM
May 29th - No school (Memorial Day)
Please contact me if you have questions, concerns, or changes in plans for your child’s pick-up at mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org ♡ Mrs. Phillips
Name Leprecauns
Friday Group
Favorite book presentations
Callen really likes this book!
SPPS Preschool Newsletter ~ April, 2023
Welcome back from Break! I hope everyone is refreshed and ready for the home stretch. I had a “staycation” this year. Sometimes just relaxing at home with no expectations feels good, too. It also seems to suit my INFJ personality well.
I really loved seeing the children present their favorite books in March! There was a lot of enthusiasm and knowledge being shared. So on that note...
The students are always sharing cute stories with me about the animals in their lives and they have so much to say. So, for the month of April, I would like to continue with the classroom presentations by sharing a photo of your pet or pets (April 11 is National Pet Day and April 26 is National Kids and Pets Day). If you have no pets, a grandparent’s pet (or other family member) would also work! The students should be able to identify the pet and really talk about their pet(s) with their fellow classmates. What is it? What is it’s name? What cute behaviors does it have? What does it eat? Does it do any tricks? What fun activities do you do with your pet? There are so many things to discuss. We will cover a few per day on every Tue-Wed-Thurs starting April 4 for the remainder of the month.
In April, we will study the letters Ee, Ii, Nn, the oval shape, the color purple. Our themes will be the hatching of baby chicks, Easter, plants, insects, & Earth Day, (April 22). If your child finished the Spring Break homework packet, be sure to have them return it for a prize. Also, this month we will forego the Scholastic book orders in lieu of the Book Fair.
IMPORTANT DATES~
April 3rd - 2023-2024 Registration Begins for Current SPPS Families
April 6th - Free Dress Day (First Thursday of the Month)
April 7th - Good Friday (Noon Dismissal) Stations of the Cross 11:15
April 8th - Egg Hunt 10:00 am/Bake Sale 9:30 am
April 16th - SPPS Sunday Mass participation
April 17th - Registration Begins for New SPPS Families
April 21st - Noon Dismissal (Archdiocesan Teacher Inservice)
May 24th - Spring Musical
May 26th - Art Show (Muffins for Moms/Donuts for Dads) 7:30-8:15 AM
As always, be sure to let me know if there are questions or concerns, or if your child will be out or has other pick up plans. My email mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org -Mrs. Phillips
March 2023 SPPS Pre-K Newsletter
I really enjoyed our Stuffed Toy Presentations and I think the students had fun with it, too! This month, in honor of Read Across America Day (March 2) I would like to continue reinforcing our presentation skills with books. Preferably an age-appropriate picture book. It can be a book they love, a book they recommend, their favorite nighttime book, a book that was a favorite gift, etc. The idea is to talk about it, give a brief synopsis, tell what they like, why they like it, and in general be ready to give information. Kind of like an oral book report (shhh! don’t tell them that!!). They do not need to be fluent readers to participate in this presentation. They may bring their book to present to the classroom any M-W-Th during the month of March.
Pre-K Scholastic Book orders are due 3/7.
This month we will be studying the Diamond (shape), the color green, numbers 19 & 20, and the letters Mm, Rr, and Xx. Our themes are Reading, Weather, St. Patrick’s Day, and we will be learning about beavers.
Important Dates~
March 2nd - Spring Pictures -Free Dress Day
March 7th - Pre-K Scholastic Book orders due
March 27th - 31st - Spring Break
Please be sure to notify me directly regarding absences, change in pick-up plans, or any other concerns. My email is mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org
February 2023 SPPS Pre-K Newsletter
Happy February to All!
Our “New Year’s Goals” presentation went well. I like setting attainable goals with my students and I really think they enjoyed sharing their goals with their peers. The same with the “Families” presentations. Recognizing the similarities and differences of families is a big part of inclusion and acceptance. We learned that our families work together, have fun together, help one another and love each other in similar ways!
For February I would like each student to bring in and celebrate their favorite stuffed animal with presentations Feb. 7, 8, and 9. The guidelines are as follows-
One presentation/stuffy per student
Be prepared to discuss who gave you/where you got your stuffy
Be ready to talk about activities you do with your stuffy
Share it’s name, how it makes you feel, etc,.
A Scholastic book flier is being sent home Jan. 31. Please have orders in by Feb. 7.
Our February studies include the color pink, the heart shape, letters D, G, V and the numbers 16, 17, 18. Themes for the month are Groundhog’s Day, President’s Day, Valentine’s Day, Black History and Dental Health.
Speaking of Valentine’s Day, let’s exchange Valentines and have a special classroom treat Tuesday Feb. 14! Here is a classroom list-
Enzo Gavin Frederick Harley Jocelyn Treyton Addison Sutton Callen Charlie Cruz Elijah Lonnie Lynnly Adelaide Nataleigh Kieran Royce Samuel Stella Stetson Xavien Mrs. Gray Mrs. Nicklous Mrs. Phillips
Please have your child make a Valentine for each student. Store-bought or homemade Valentines are great! I treasure a homemade Valentine I received a few years ago from a student. It’s still on my refrigerator at home! Reminder, the school will also be selling candygrams beginning Feb 7 for 25￠/ea.
Important Dates-
Jan 30- Feb 3 Catholic Schools Week
1 Progress Reports
3 No School – Faith Formation Day
4 SPPS Dinner Dance Auction
6 No School - Conferences
7 Pre-K Scholastic book orders due
17 Random Acts of Kindness Day
20 No School–Presidents Day
21 No school - Archdiocese Prof Dev
As always, please let me know if you have concerns or questions. My email is;
mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org
Sincerely, Mrs. Phillips
~Let us welcome February and take every chance to show love to all we meet.~
January 2023 SPPS Pre-K Newsletter
Welcome back and Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a pleasant and safe Christmas and New Year’s with family and friends. I also hope the icy weather didn’t ruin any of your plans. Now that Winter is in full swing- (brrr !) I have so much planned for January! And just a reminder to all parents and caregivers, this newsletter is also found on the school website https://www.saintpaulparochial.org under the Current Families tab. I like the idea of going paperless and I don’t usually send monthly hardcopies of the newsletter home with the students although I am this month as a reminder to all.
Our Studies this month are shape; Rectangles, color; White, letters; Ss, Kk, Ww, and the numbers 13, 14, 15. Our Themes are penguins, Dr. King, Scientists, and snow.
Dates to Remember-
January 13th - No School (Accreditation Work Day)
January 16th - No School (Holiday)
January 30- February 3 - Catholic Schools Week*
*Please watch the school weekly newsletter for updates on how we will be celebrating Catholic Schools Week.
I am sending two worksheets home to be completed and returned to present to the classroom.
The first one is “New Year New Goals” due by Jan. 10. Have your child color the page and help them fill in the goals. We will discuss them in class.
The second worksheet is “My family” due by Jan 17. I originally intended to send this in December but the month got away from me. Have your child draw your family and help them complete the sentence “My family likes to…” Your child will also present these to the class.
Also remember to have your child return the homework I sent home prior to break for a prize.
As always I can be reached by email at mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org should you have any questions, change in schedules, or concerns. Thank you for your continued support at home and have a blessed New Year.
- Mrs. Phillips
DECEMBER 2022 SPPS Pre-K NEWSLETTER
‘Tis the Season! Wishing all of our SPPS families hope, peace, love and joy this Advent Season.
Pre-K has been practicing “Baby Jesus, We Love You” for the Christmas Concert on Wednesday, Dec. 14 at 7:00 pm. I sent the lyrics home two weeks ago. There are hand motions that go along with this song, ask your child if they know them. Pre-K performs first at 7:00 sharp, so meet me on the 2nd floor of the Community Hall at about 6:45, 15 min. prior to our performance. Drop your child with me and have a seat. After we sing, Pre-K students disperse to the audience to sit with their families.
I would like to have a book exchange with the kiddos on Thurs. Dec 15th at about 10:00 am. Please bring a wrapped book before that date. It can be any age-appropriate book, new or gently used, valued under $5.00. It will be a surprise to see what they’ll end up with, and hopefully a “new” book to keep and enjoy.
I will be sending each student homework to work on during Winter Break. It involves their name and numbers to trace. We have been working on correct pincer grip while sitting at a desk or table. Have them say the letters/numbers as they trace. When they complete all pages and return them to me after the Break, they may choose a prize from the prize box.
The December Studies are the color yellow, Star shape, the letters Cc and Jj, numbers 10, 11, & 12. We are also learning about the Nativity and Reindeer.
DATES TO REMEMBER
December 1st Free Dress
December 2nd Free Dress
December 2nd Noon Dismissal - Archdiocesan Inservice and poinsettia pick up
December 14th Christmas Concert 7 pm
December 16th Free Dress (Christmas theme)
December 24th Christmas Eve Mass 5 PM
December 19th - Jan 2nd Christmas Break (School resumes January 3rd)
Please let me know if you have questions or concerns by contacting me via email mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org
NOVEMBER 2022 SPPS Pre-K NEWSLETTER
The weather has finally started acting like its season so I’d like to remind everyone to be sure to send your child to school with a jacket or coat. Unless it’s wet or raining, or freezing, we will enjoy an outdoor recess. On those days when we have indoor recess, we enjoy dancing to GoNoodle, coloring pages, games, puzzles, or playing with the toys in the bins.
This month we will be learning about Veterans Day, Native American traditions, and Thanksgiving. We will also cover the letters Ll, Tt, Uu, and numbers 7,8, & 9. The shape of the month is the square, and the color of the month is brown.
The Scholastic Book Order is due Nov 7. I will not be doing an order for December.
Some important dates to remember-
Nov 7- Scholastic Book Orders due (Pre-K)
Nov 11- No school, Veterans Day
Nov 24 & 25 - No School, Thanksgiving Holiday
Thank you to everyone who chaperoned the Pumpkin Patch Field Trip. We always have more fun when things go smoothly, and you definitely helped with that.
I would also like to give my heartfelt thanks to the whole Pre-K class and their families for the prayers, beautiful bouquet, and gift on my brother’s passing. Your kindness and thoughtfulness means so much.
Please contact me with questions or concerns at mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org
Sincerely, Mrs. Phillips
OCTOBER 2022 Pre-K NEWSLETTER
🍂 Happy Fall! 🍁It’s hard to believe we flew through September and are heading into October already! One thing I’m looking forward to is a Pumpkin Patch Field Trip on Oct. 20. Watch for a permission slip in your child’s backpack about 2 weeks prior to the trip. We’ll have more details at that time.
I will try to send a Scholastic Book Club pamphlet home with your child every month. Of course, ordering is optional, and you don’t really need the flyer to order books. Just use our classroom code GZX4H. I’m such a fan of Scholastic book clubs because I remember them when I was a child. (I just looked it up and they’ve been around for 102 years!) I also love books and I enjoy sharing my love of books with my students. Story time is always popular because it’s the moment of the day everyone is paying very close attention to see what happens next! Your purchases also help us earn points which can be spent on more books, puzzles, or other learning aids for the classroom.
October studies; shape- triangle, color- orange, letters Bb, Ff, Pp Numbers 4,5,6
October themes are Bats, Fire Safety, Autumn, Pumpkins
Some important dates to remember;
October 6th Free Dress Day (may wear non-uniform clothing), Pre-K book orders due
October 7th No School (Archdiocesan Curriculum Inservice)
October 10th Conference Day - No School
October 13th Spirit Day
October 14th Picture Day (all Pre-K students are welcome to join us that day)
October 20th Spirit Day & Pumpkin Patch Field Trip
October 27th Spirit Day
October 28th Pre-K Halloween Party 10:00 a.m. (All Pre-K welcome to join that day)
October 31st Halloween
We will celebrate Halloween on October 28th at 10:00 a.m. Even if you do not usually come on Fridays, please join us if you can! Bring your Halloween costume and get ready for games and activities! Feel free to contact me with questions or concerns. My email is mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org
Autumn is God’s way of showing us how beautiful change can be.
SEPTEMBER 2022 Pre-K NEWSLETTER
Greetings New and Returning Pre-K Families!
I enjoyed seeing you at our Supply Day last Thursday! For those who couldn’t make it, no worries! I’ll try to catch you up and if I don’t answer your questions in this newsletter, please feel free to contact me at mphillips@saintpaulparochial.org We will have a classroom blog up and running soon! It will be linked to the school website homepage.
Mrs. Davidson and Mrs. McCarthy will continue to greet all students by the front door each morning. You are welcome to drop your children off at the classroom for the first few days as the students become familiar with the classroom. After the first few days of school, parents usually drop their children off at the front of the building and allow them to travel the hallways to the classroom independently. This independence helps the students gain confidence and establish a healthy love for school through familiar routines.
We will join the school for Assembly each morning at 7:55 a.m.
Here is an approximate daily schedule;
7:55 Assembly
8:00 Return to classroom, warm-up activity or free play
8:30 Circle Time, Calendar
8:45 Group Potty Break
9:00 Rotations (Reading, Writing, Computer, Puzzle/Games)
10:00 Story/Singing Time, or Mystery Science/Weekly Reader movie
10:30 Recess
11:00 Car line (pick-up) Please notify me in advance if your child will be going to the early learning center or will be picked up by someone other than yourself.
September studies; Circle, the color red, numbers 1,2,3, letters Aa, Ff, Gg
September themes; You Are Special, Handwashing, 5 Senses, Trying Our Best
DATES TO REMEMBER
September 6th First Day of School (a reminder that arrival begins at 7:45 am each day with the school day beginning at 8:00)
September 7th Back to School BBQ 5:00 pm
September 23rd No School (Teacher Inservice)
If you would like to celebrate your child’s Birthday in class with a small treat, please give me advance notice so we can plan for it in our schedule. Feel free to email me and I’ll try to get back with you as soon as possible. I’m really looking forward to the 2022-23 school year, and I hope you are too!!!
Sincerely, Mrs. Phillips