The Insider At Salem Elementary School  “We Learn, Grow & Accomplish TOGETHER!”

DATES TO REMEMBER FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17th— Young Audiences of CT performance “Soro Bindi” 2:00 PM—3:00 PM (Gymnasium)

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20th Presidents’ Day/Winter Break—No School

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21st— Winter Break—No School

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24th— CELEBRATION OF THE ARTS BANQUET United States Coast Guard Band Congratulations to Mae Czuba and Mason Dupuis who were nominated for the CT Association of Schools Brass Quintet—“The Little Cutter (CAS) Outstanding Artists awards. Mae and Mason, along with their families attended a CAS sponsored That Could” recognition dinner at the Aqua Turf Restaurant in Southington on Tuesday, February 7th. Mrs. Ritchie 10:00 AM—10:45 AM (Library) and Mrs. Kohary attended as well and were so proud to honor our two award winners! 3rd & 4th Grade Only

REMINDERS... Kindergarten registration for the 2012-2013 school year is beginning

now. Preschool lottery for 2012-2013 will

be held on 5/31/2012. NEW—February PPS due March

9th.

New Year….New Leadership 100th DAY OF SCHOOL Opportunities… First graders enjoyed sharing their collections of 100 items on the 100th day of school on Friday, Feb- Principal Advisory Committee (PAC) ruary 10th. Healthy Heart Challenge (Feb.) ART CONTEST MYSTIC ART CENTER Square One Art Tiles (Winter) Select classes, 1st-4th ,voted on artwork that they felt should be submitted to the Mystic Arts Center’s

Attached to this issue… upcoming “Young at Art” show. The winners are: K— John Whittaker 1st— Ethan Len 4th - Grace Leininger Summary of BOE approved Budget nd rd from PTO 2 —Julia Giegel 3 - Eva-Lynn Lincoln Nuts and Bolts of School Budgets More information about the show and how the voting worked will be provided in in March’s parent news- January’s Principal’s Problem Solv- letter. ers! (CONGRATULATIONS!) Dr. Seuss, Grandparents’ & Seniors’ SAVE THE DATE Day Flyer Grandparents’/Senior Citizens’ Day & Dr. Seuss Day - Friday, March 2nd (See Attached Flyer) Science Club flyer and Sign-Up Sheet (NEW!) PROPOSED SCHOOL CALENDAR SY2012-2013 Yearbook Order Forms Please visit our website to review the proposed school calendar for SY2012-2013. We ask that parents PTO Family Dance send any suggestions/comments/concerns/issues to Jennifer Kayser, Executive Assistant to the Super- Salem School Proposed 2012-2013 intendent, at [email protected] by February 29, 2012. All responses will be collected and pre- Calendar sented to the Board of Education prior to their vote scheduled for March 5, 2012. Thank you. The cal- CMT Schedule (3rd & 4th Grade endar is also attached for your review. Only) CMT Letter (3rd & 4th Grade Only)- Electronic Version Only TRANSPORTATION COUNCIL Principal Problem Solver (February)- The Salem School District invites you to participate in our survey assessing the Electronic Version Only overall quality of our Salem Transportation Program. Please visit our website to Box Tops Spring Collection)- participate in our survey. We will keep this survey open for responses through Feb- Electronic Version Only ruary 29, 2012. Thank you very much for your participation. Your input matters. Thank you! Volume 5, Issue 3 Have a wonderful week! February 15, 2012 Cynthia Ritchie

Published by the Salem School PTO See the full proposed budget at Summary of BOE Proposed Budget www.salemschools.org/budget

Budget Calendar Thurs March 8, Board of Finance Public comment BOE presents proposed budget BOF may approve an initial BOE budget amount Thurs March 22, Board of Finance BOF approves Town and BOE budgets for presentation at Public Hearing Mon April 2, Board of Education Public comment BOE may adjust budget line items to meet BOF-approved amount (if necessary) Wed April 11, Board of Finance Public Hearing Town and BOE budget presentations Public question, answer, and comment Thurs April 12, Board of Finance BOF approves final proposed budget amounts for Town and BOE Wed May 2, Town Meeting All town voters may participate Town Meeting may decrease the budget, and sends budget to referendum Wed May 9, Budget Referendum Citizens vote

Highlighted Changes in the Proposed Budget Re-align staffing to support improved student instruction and learning • Full-day Kindergarten • More time for academic and social growth • Reassign current staff • Language Arts curriculum and instruction • Improve curriculum and instruction in reading and writing, align with Common Core State Standards • Reallocate existing staff position to Language Arts teaching specialist • Math curriculum and instruction • Improve curriculum and instruction, align with Common Core State Standards • Better coordinate Middle School math courses with East Lyme • Reallocate existing staff position to Math teaching specialist • Technology instruction • Improve technology curriculum and instruction for students and teachers • Refocus two existing computer teacher positions to Instructional Technology Specialist and Technology Literacy teacher • Library Media Services • Improve library services coordination with both elementary and middle school curriculum units • Increase part-time position from 0.5 to 0.7 • General Education instructional aide support • Use grant funding to increase presence of instructional aides in classrooms for support of all students • Decreased staffing • Based on enrollment decrease and program changes, eliminate 1.2 employee positions • Facility Maintenance • Implement improved long-term planned and cycled maintenance schedule to better care for the Town’s most valuable building From the Office of the Superintendent of Schools

The Nuts and Bolts of School Funding*

The funding of public education is a subject school operational budget is about 69% of Salem School District continues to receive an that seems to be always in the news - local, the comprehensive town budget. annual ECS grant that is approximately state, and national. However, many people $3,000,000 per year, an amount that has readily admit that they lack a comprehensive In communities where property values are been relatively stable. understanding of how schools are funded. In growing very slowly or declining, paying for Connecticut, a school district's money comes the increasing needs of schools can aggravate Federal Funding from three sources: local tax revenues, state the local property tax burden. This is grant funding, and federal grant funding. especially a challenge in communities that are Additionally, each town approves an annual home to large proportions of low income Federal school funding is determined by the budget through a specific process. residents and/or people living on modest fixed U.S. Congress in the fiscal year before it will be incomes (such as senior citizens). Thus, finding used. For example, in 2004-2005, approximately $536 billion was dedicated to Town Budget Process an acceptable "balance" between the needs of the school district and other groups / agencies education and given to the states. On average, in the town can be challenging. federal funding amounts to roughly 5.4% of The budget process depends on the structure Connecticut school districts’ funding. The of each town or city in Connecticut. Overall, Although there is no direct correlation reason why the Federal government's share of funding for public education is determined by between an age-group and their needs in a education funding is small is because the State's Education Cost Sharing Grant and town's budgeting process, a snapshot of a traditionally school funding was considered then sent to each town to offset the cost town's demographics can provide insight into the responsibility of the states. Federal of education to their youth. Just because general expectations of its citizenry. Salem's funding by law is intended to supplement education money is received in a town from most recent demographic town profile (2010) state funding, but not to replace state funds. the Education Cost Sharing Grant (ECS, see documents that 66% of the population is That said, the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) below) does not mean that the money is comprised of persons between the ages of was passed with the expectation that there required to be spent only on public education. 18-64 and 7% of the population is comprised would be an increase in both federal funding of persons above the age 65+. and the federal role in public education. Town officials are responsible for reviewing, Specifically, NCLB requires more testing of modifying, and approving school budgets The State of Connecticut, in recognition of the students in grades 3-8 and provides new every year. The budget created by the school fact that demographics of a town can create a funding for the federal Title I program, which district's professional educators is sent to the potential gap between the needs of the youth is designed to serve low-income students. Board of Education for review and approval. and the needs of other age groups, developed After the budget is approved by the Board of the Minimum Expenditure Requirement which NCLB is actually a reauthorization of the Education, they send the budget to the town outlined the minimum amount towns needed Elementary and Secondary Education Act finance committee for its review. In Salem, to spend of their own funds towards (ESEA) of 1965, which provided additional approval of the school budget is in the hands education. In 2008, the MER was replaced by funding for elementary and secondary school of the Salem Board of Finance members who the Minimum Budget Requirement (MBR). programs for children from low income decide the specific budget that is sent to a MBR allows towns to divert from 35% to 85% families, as well as school library resources, Town Meeting in which the budget is of their state funding increase for non- textbooks, and other instructional material. presented for review and approval by Salem education to other uses such as property tax These funds also go towards supporting residents. Following the Town Meeting, the relief. The only towns not allowed to do so are supplemental education centers and services, budget is sent to referendum. ones that are in their third year or more of strengthening state departments of failing to make Adequate Yearly Progress in education, and for professional development All citizens are afforded the opportunity to math or reading as outlined by No Child Left for teachers. participate in the town budget process and Behind. Salem School District has continued to may attend board meetings, hearings, and make the required AYP and does, therefore, Currently, the Salem School District receives town meetings. For town officials to be not qualify for protection from the portion of approximately $68,000 per year from federal equipped to make quality decisions that the MBR law that allows for no diversion of grants, that support general education reflect the wishes of the citizens-at-large, all education funds.. remedial and intervention initiatives and constituent groups should participate in the approximately $200,000 for special education process. As taxpayers and constituents, programs and services (Individuals with parents are a crucial component in the effort State Funding Disabilities Education Act, IDEA). The IDEA to ensure that all areas of the town budget, funds, as well as the other federal grant specifically the public schools’ budget, receive Cities and towns in Connecticut receive state funds, are used for specific purposes to offset adequate funding. They can help in assuring aid for public education through the the overall cost of delivering educational that quality budgets are sent to referendum Educational Cost Sharing (ECS) Grant. Each programs in Salem, and do, therefore, reduce and supported by votes of the citizenry by town’s ECS Grant is computed by a formula the operational budget bottom line. learning how public schools are funded and by that reflects the state’s effort to balance the becoming involved in their local town budget ability of the state’s municipalities to fund In conclusion . . . process. their public schools. District Reference Groups are a mechanism to classify school districts School operational budgets are not immune to Local Funding into categories. These categories are used to inflationary factors and contractual cluster similar districts with respect to student obligations that require increases annually just achievement/test scores, socioeconomic Local property taxes are used to fund a town’s to maintain the “status quo.” Finding the right status, and size of district. The most affluent balance between the needs of the local school share of the public school operational budget. districts are in the DRG A and the poorest In theory, this means that the higher the value district and the needs of the community-at- districts are in DRG I. Salem School District is large is paramount to the overall fiscal health of a town's taxable real estate, the more included in DRG C, along with twenty other capable is that town to fund its public schools of a community. In that property values towns with similar characteristics. correlate with the overall quality of a school from property taxes. In Salem, approximately 66% of the school operational budget funding district and its ability to provide “high quality” Currently, the DRG categories have nothing to educational programs, the annual school comes from local property taxes. do with a town’s education funding from the budget requires a funding level that supports state because for several years the funding st In some smaller towns, as much as 80% of the and sustains student access to 21 century from the state has been based on an annual learning experiences. To be perceived as a town’s overall annual budget, raised primarily increase of the prior year’s funding, instead of through property taxes on houses, apartment desirable place to raise a family and to live, a based on the ECS formula. However, over time community must provide adequate funding to buildings and commercial properties, goes to funding across most DRG's has decreased. support the local public schools. In Salem, the support the quality of its school system.

* Source: The Nuts and Bolts of How Your Child’s School is Funded, published by Connecticut Appleseeds whose work is supported by grants from the William Caspar Graustein Memorial Fund and the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation.

A CONGRATULATIONS

TO Terrific!

Salem Elementary School’s

Principal ’s Way to Go! Problem

Awesome Solvers!! Job!

Abigail Belleville Rachel Limburg Emma Belleville Jonathan Limburg Cameron Cunningham Rachel Limburg Emily D’Aiuto Ryan McShane Lindy Erikson Riley Morrow Corey Filewich Josh Mukherjee Kevin Filewich Marcus Orsini Helen Gillespy Cooper Pazzaglia Kayleigh Jensen Isabel Pazzaglia Each student was Karenna Kung Emma Robson awarded a very Grace Leininger Gavin Thomas special “rainbow” version of a PAWS Jack Leininger Katie Thomas medal. COOL! James Leininger Grace Vlaun Anna Limburg

You Are Invited!! Dr. Seuss Day and

Grandparents’/Seniors’ Day!

When: Friday, March 2nd

WHERE: Salem Elementary School Media Center TIME: 10:30—11:30 K –AM Guests to visit in classroom. 10:30—11:15 Gr. 1—4 Guests to visit in classrooms for a special activity. Reading Celebration in Gym Dr. Seuss Movie 11:15—12:10 Gr. 1—4 Quiet Reading Time (on towels) - stuffed animals, pajamas and/or slippers are welcome! Shoes must be worn. K-AM K students may join elementary students in the gymnasium if they are 11:30—12:10 accompanied by an adult. Guests should also bring a book. Gr. 3 & 4 12:10—12:40 Guests are welcome to join. (Please provide your own lunch.) Lunch Gr. 1 & 2 12:00—12:40 Guests are welcome to join student in specials. Specials Gr. 1 & 2 12:45—1:15 Guests are welcome to join. (Please provide your own lunch.) Lunch 12:45—1:00 Gr. 3 & 4 Recess Gr. 3 & 4 1:00—1:35 Guests are welcome to join student in specials. Specials

1:40—2:20 K—PM Guests are welcome to visit PM K specials.

2:20—3:20 K—PM Guests are welcome to visit the kindergarten classroom.

Science Club Salem Elementary School

It is my pleasure to announce that a new, after school “science club” is forming at Salem Elementary School for 4th grade students. Participation will be on a first come first served basis, so get your signed registration form in to Mrs. Borges as soon as possible to reserve your spot.

WHEN? Wednesdays, Dismissal – 4:45pm WHERE? Mrs. Borges’ grade 4 classroom Session 1: February 29, March 7, 14, 21, April 4 Session 2: April 25, May 2, 9, 16, 23

(It will be the parent/guardian’s responsibility to provide transportation home.)

Please read the descriptions of experiments attached and rank your top 5 choices in order of preference. I will use this information to create two sessions to place students into. It may be possible to attend both sessions depending on the number of students interested in joining. Please also indicate which session date you would prefer below. You will be notified as to which session(s) you will be placed. Please have your child return all 3 pages to Mrs. Borges as soon as possible to reserve your spot.

Student Name: ______

Session Preference (please circle one): 1 2

Parent/Guardian Signature: ______

If you would be interested in volunteering during any session to help, please indicate which date(s). ______Science Club for Grades 4 Students

____ 6. The Changing Moon (from NSTA’s Picture Perfect Science Lessons book) Make observations of the moon each night for a month, model how the moon changes shape Skills/Standards: science as inquiry, earth and space science

____ 7. Bubbleology (online) Investigate the effects of adding corn syrup and glycerin to bubble solution to see which produces a larger bubble and a bubble that lasts the longest, introduction to surface tension Skills/Standards: science as inquiry, physical science http://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair- projects/project_ideas/Chem_p025.shtml

____ 8. Cabbage Chemistry (online) Identify common household solutions as acids or bases using cabbage juice as a ph indicator. Skills/Standards: chemistry http://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair- projects/project_ideas/Chem_p013.shtml

____ 9. Air Olympics! (from Connecting Science and Literature book) Investigate properties of air; air takes up space, can move things, has weight, moving air is called wind Skills/Standards: physical science

____ 10. Make your own silly putty! –introduction to polymers Investigate the optimal blend of glue and borax to make the best silly putty (“slimiest vs. stretchiest”) Skills/Standards; chemistry, scientific inquiry http://www.stevespanglerscience.com/experiment/glue-borax- gak, http://coolscienceclub.tripod.com/id5.html

Experiments (please rank your top 5 choices)

____ 1. The Lunchbox Derby (from NSTA’s Mixing It Up book) design, build, and race cars made from fresh produce Skills/Standards: force, motion, energy, scientific investigation, reasoning, logic

____ 2. Investigating Impact Craters (from NSTA’s Mixing It Up book) Create craters and examine the various structures that form upon impact Skills/Standards: force, motion, earth/space science, mathematics-measurement, graphing

____ 3. Turtle Hurdles (from NSTA’s Picture Perfect Science Lessons book) Simulate and explore the many threats to sea turtles and the ways humans can help them survive, identify between dangers from human actions and natural dangers, explore life cycles through literature Skills/Standards: life science, science in personal and social perspectives

____ 4. Oil Spill! (from NSTA’s Picture Perfect Science Lessons book) Explore the effects of oil spills on plants, animals, and the environment and investigate cleanup methods through a simulated oil spill. Skills/Standards: Scientific Inquiry, science in personal and social perspectives

____ 5. Sounds of Science (from NSTA’s Picture Perfect Science Lessons book) Explore how sound is produced by vibrations, make a straw instrument and investigate how to vary its pitch, design and build an instrument that produces a high and low pitch. Skills/Standards; physical science, science and technology

Salem School YEARBOOKS are on SALE NOW!!! Use the attached order form or order online at http://jostensyearbooks.com/?REF=A01024120

Yearbooks are $26 and checks can be made payable to Salem School. Please turn in all orders to Ms. Desillier. 8th Grade students DO NOT need to buy yearbooks,

they will be provided.

Salem School PTO Family Dance

When: Friday, March 2nd 6:30pm to 8:00pm Where: Salem School Gym

All Salem School students and families are invited to attend this free family event. Dance to your favorite music with all your Salem School friends. Mingle with other parents and enjoy a night of family friendly fun!

No drop offs please! All students must be accompanied and supervised by an adult.

We look forward to seeing you there!!!

SALEM SCHOOL DISTRICT SALEM, CT

September 2012 DRAFT February 2013 23/23 2012 – 2013 15/114 S M T W T F S SCHOOL CALENDAR S M T W T F S 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Board of Education Approval 1 2 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 TBD 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 17 18 19 20 21 22 23  August 28 24 25 26 27 28 16 17 18 19 20 21 22

23 24 25 26 27 28 29 HOLIDAYS AND VACATIONS  September 3: Labor Day March 2013 30  October 8: Columbus Day 19/133  November 6: Election Day S M T W T F S  November 12: Veteran’s Day October 2012 1 2 22/45  November 21: Early Dismissal  November 22 –23: Thanksgiving 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 S M T W T F S  December 24 –31: Holiday Recess 1 2 3 4 5 6  January 1: New Years Day 10 11 12 13 14 15 16  January 21: Martin Luther King Day 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 7 8 9 10 11 12 13  February 18: President’s Day 14 15 16 17 18 19 20  February 19 – 22: Winter Recess 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 21 22 23 24 25 26 27  March 29: Good Friday 31  April 15 – 19: Spring Recess 28 29 30 31  May 27: Memorial Day April 2013 November 2012 STAFF 17/150 18/63 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT S M T W T F S (NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS) 1 2 3 4 5 6 S M T W T F S  August 24, 2012 (Staff Orientation/PD) 1 2 3  August 27, 2012 (Staff PD) 7 8 9 10 11 12 13  November 6, 2012 (Regional/District PD 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Day or Parent Conferences) 11 12 13 14 15 16 17  March 28, 2013 (Staff PD) 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 18 19 20 21/ 22 23 24 28 29 30 LAST DAY OF SCHOOL 25 26 27 28 29 30  June 14, 2013: Early Dismissal May 2013

22/172 December 2012 CALENDAR BREAKDOWN (186) Student Days 182 S M T W T F S 15/78 Staff Orientation 1 1 2 3 4 S M T W T F S Staff Professional 1 Development Days 3 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 REPORT CARDS DISTRIBUTED 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 December 2012 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 March 2013 26 27 28 29 30 31 June 2013 (Last Day of School) 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 June 2013 30 31 School Hours Early Dismissal 10/182 MS 7:35 – 2:25 7:35 – 12:25 S M T W T F S January 2013 Elem 8:40 – 3:30 8:40 – 1:30 Kindergarten 8:40 – 3:30 8:40 – 1:30 1 21/99 Pre-Kind. 8:40 – 11:35 8:40 – 11:35 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 S M T W T F S 14 Snow/emergency days will be made up in this 9 10 11 12 13 / 15 1 2 3 4 5 order: If one snow/emergency day is needed, 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 school will be held on 6/17. If a 2nd day is needed, 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 school will be held on 6/18 and so forth. If needed, 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 the February break and/or April break may be 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 shortened or eliminated to make up 30 snow/emergency days. 27 28 29 30 31 KEY / = Early Dismissal _ = No School jlk = Staff PD = Last Day of School CMT SCHEDULE SALEM SCHOOL DISTRICT March 6-22, 2012

NOTE: The times below (in the calendar) reflect the time allotted for the indicated CMT. Plan for ten min. for directions only.

Elementary Start Time:9:15 (Directions: 9:15-9:25) Middle School Start Time:8:45 (Directions 8:45-8:55) MARCH 2012 Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday 1 2

Practice Test Practice Test (Grades 3-8) Make-ups (60 min)

Time TBA

5 6 7 8 9 Direct DRP (Grades Editing and Reading Comp. Practice Test Assessment of 3-8) Revising I (Grades 3-8) make-ups Writing 45 min. (Grades 3-8) 45 min. (Grades 3-8) 60 min. 45 min.

Note: If snow day, DAW will be given 3/7/12. DRP will then be given on 3/20/12 12 13 14 15 16

Science-5th Reading Math I Math II Math III grade: Comp. II Grades 3-6 Grades 3-7: (Grades 5-8 65 min (Grades 3-8) and Grade 8: 60 min. only) 45 min. 60 min 60 min. 8th grade: 70 Grade 8: 70 min Grade 7: 70 min. min

Supplemental DRP (Grade 6) 45 min

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

19 20 21 22 23

Make-ups Make-ups Make-ups Make-ups (Last Day) After checking After checking that all test that all test materials are in materials are in Checked test order, earliest order, earliest materials must return date if return date if be returned no make-ups no make-ups are needed for are needed for grades 3 & 4) grades 5-8)

Notes: If there is a snow day, the test scheduled for that day will be moved to March 20 or a later date as needed (except for DAW, which will be moved to March 7th, see note above). If there is a late opening, testing will occur at 11:45 for Middle School and 11:00 for Elementary School grades 3 & 4.

Principal Ritchie’s

Problem Solvers

The Principal’s Problem Solver Program February’s Challenge

Kids have GREAT ideas and I always look forward to hearing about them! As many of you already know, my challenges are ones that allow students to apply lessons learned in school to real-life settings. Often times, these challenges ask kids to think creatively, to work collaboratively (with a parent, friend or sibling) and to apply math skills to budget for their ideas. Challenges will be focused on making a posi- tive difference in the lives of others and also on school improvement initiatives.

This month’s Principal’s Problem Solver Challenge takes us to our lunchroom. I challenge students to think of creative ideas and activities that can be incorporated into our lunch times. Are there activities, contests, games, challenges, entertainment, etc. that can be added to our cafeteria experiences? Please share your ideas through pictures, drawings and words. Please display your thoughts on poster board.

Here are your requirements: 1. Your activity needs to be safe. As we know, students cannot run or move around when they are chewing. 2. You may have the use of microphones, the large projector screen, and the computer to project on the screen. You may use the music player. 3. You will have a budget of $1,000.00 (per year) to purchase any supplies you need. 4. You may use three to four adult volunteers to support your ideas/program if you need them. 5. Remember – lunch periods are 30 minutes only. 6. You cannot add or change the lunch menu. This challenge focuses on changing or improving the lunchroom environment. 7. Remember, lunch time is a time for talking with friends and socializing. Talking is necessary. 8. How often will you do your activity? Everyday? Once a week, etc.? Explain. 9. Have fun….develop leadership activities for kids. How could kids take charge of this activity?

GOOD LUCK! HAVE FUN! BE CREATIVE!

**Challenge DUE DATE: Friday, March 9th**

Sincerely,

Mrs. Ritchie

Please note that all students who complete 3 out of 5 PPS Challenges (from January through May) will earn a ticket to take a special field trip that will occur in June. More details will be shared soon. 

We Want Your BoxTops!!!

We are now collecting Box Tops for the spring collection. If we collect $600 in Box Tops the kids will get to have an extra spirit assembly filled with lots of fun activities for all ages! All Box Tops are due by Friday February 24th. Good Luck and GET CLIPPING!

clip box tops and earn cash for our school!

Earn cash for your school every time you shop for groceries. Clip Box Tops from hundreds of your favorite products.* Each Box Tops coupon is worth 10¢ for our school—and that adds up fast!

BAKING ® Cereal: Bite-Size Brownies Mix® Muddy Buddies® • Ziploc® Brand Snack Bags Desserts: • Berry Lucky Charms® Cereal • Pillsbury® Sweet Moments® Molten ® Select • Ziploc® Brand Storage Bags • ® Brownie Mixes • Chocolate Lucky Charms® Cereal Lava Brownies Chex Mix® Snack Mix • Ziploc® Brand Vacuum Bags • Betty Crocker Complete Desserts® ® Cereal: Breads and Rolls: Chex Mix® Treat Bars • Ziploc® Brand Zip ‘n Steam™ Bags • Betty Crocker® Cookie Pouches • Oatmeal Crisp® Almond Cereal • Pillsbury® Breadsticks ® Snacks Containers: • Betty Crocker® Decadent Supreme® • Oatmeal Crisp® Raisin Cereal • Pillsbury® Country Italian Bread Fiber One® 80 Calorie Honey Squares • Ziploc® Brand Snap ‘n Seal Containers • Betty Crocker® Frosting Raisin Nut Bran Cereal • Pillsbury® Crescent Rolls Fiber One™ 90 Calorie Brownies • Ziploc® Brand Twist ‘n Loc® Containers • Betty Crocker® Gluten Free Brownie Mix Reese’s Puffs® Cereal • Pillsbury® Crescent Rounds Fiber One® Bars • Betty Crocker® Gluten Free Cake Mix Total® Cereal: • Pillsbury® Crusty French Bread Fiber One® Squares PAPER PRODUCTS • Betty Crocker® Gluten Free Cookie Mix • Total® Blueberry Pomegranate Cereal • Pillsbury® Flaky Twists Fiber One® Toaster Pastries Bath and Facial Tissue: • Betty Crocker® Sunkist® Lemon Bars • Total® Cinnamon Crunch Cereal • Pillsbury® Grands!® Biscuits Fruit Roll-Ups® Simply Fruit™ Fruit Rolls • COTTONELLE® Bath Tissue • Betty Crocker® SuperMoist® Cake Mix • Total® Cranberry Crunch Cereal • Pillsbury® Grands! Jr.® refrigerated biscuits Gardetto’s® • KLEENEX® Anti-Viral Tissue (75 & 112 count) • Betty Crocker® Variety Dessert Mixes • Total® Honey Clusters Cereal • Pillsbury® Grands!® Sweet Rolls Golden Graham® Snack Bars • KLEENEX® Facial Tissue (184 Colors, 200, 240 • Betty Crocker® Warm Delights® Desserts • Total® Plus Omega 3 Cereal • Pillsbury® Pizza Crust Lärabar® Multipaks & 260 count) • Betty Crocker® Warm Delights® Minis • Total® Raisin Bran Cereal • Pillsbury® Simply...™ Biscuits Milk ’n Cereal Bars • SCOTT® 1000 Count Bath Tissue • Fun da-Middles® • Whole Grain Total® Cereal • Pillsbury® Sweet Rolls ® Granola Bars: • SCOTT® Extra Soft Bath Tissue • Reese’s® Dessert Bar Mix ® Cereal Butter, Margarine and Spreads: • Nature Valley® Chewy Granola Bars with Yogurt Towels & Napkins: Breads, Muffins and Rolls: ® Cereal: • LAND O LAKES® Butter (sticks) • Nature Valley® Chewy Trail Mix Bars • KLEENEX® Dinner Napkins (50 count) • Betty Crocker® Boxed Muffin • Wheaties Fuel® Cereal • LAND O LAKES® Fresh Buttery Taste® Spread • Nature Valley® Crunchy Granola Bars • SCOTT® Paper Towels • Betty Crocker® Quick Breads (sticks and tubs) • Nature Valley® Healthy Heart Chewy • SCOTT® Rags in a Box • Betty Crocker® Complete Pancake Mix FRESH PRODUCE • LAND O LAKES® Margarine (sticks and tubs) Granola Bars • SCOTT® Shop Towels • Betty Crocker® Pizza Crust • NEW Green Giant® Fresh: Bagged Asparagus • LAND O LAKES® Spreadable Butter • Nature Valley® Nut Clusters • VIVA® Paper Towels • ® Baking Mix Boxes • NEW Green Giant® Fresh: Baby Cut Carrots Products • Nature Valley® Roasted Nut Crunch Bars Wipes: • Bisquick® Gluten Free • Green Giant® Fresh: Broccoli Cheese: • Nature Valley® Sweet & Salty Nut Granola Bars • COTTONELLE FRESH® Flushable Moist Wipes • Bisquick Heart Smart® Mix • Green Giant® Fresh: Cauliflower • LAND O LAKES® Snack’N Cheese To-Go!® Nature Valley® Granola Thins • SCOTT® Pre-Moistened Wipes • Green Giant® Fresh: Iceberg Lettuce NEW Nature Valley® Protein Chewy Bars • Fiber One™ Complete Pancake Mix • LAND O LAKES® Chunk Cheese varieties in DISPOSABLE TABLEWARE & COOKWARE • NEW Green Giant® Fresh: Mushrooms NEW Ocean Spray® Fruit Flavored Snacks • Fiber One™ Muffin Mix the Dairy Case Disposable Cookware • NEW Green Giant® Fresh: Onions Sunkist® Fruit Snacks Gold Medal® Flour • LAND O LAKES® Pre-Sliced Deli Cheese (in the • Hefty® EZ Foil® Pans • NEW Green Giant® Fresh: Potatoes deli or dairy case) BEVERAGES • NEW Green Giant® Fresh: Raisins APPAREL: PRINTED SHIRTS FOR SCHOOLS Disposable Cups: • ALPINE LACE® Pre-Sliced Deli Cheese (in the • Hefty® Clear Colors Disposable Cups Nestle® Juicy Juice® All Flavors • Green Giant® Fresh: Romaine Hearts deli or dairy case) Hanes® Printed T-shirts Nestle® Juicy Juice® (8-pack) 4.23 & 6.75 oz • NEW Green Giant® Fresh: Mesh Bag Sweet Potatoes • Hanes® Beefy-T® T-Shirt • Hefty® Crystal Clear Disposable Cups LAND O LAKES® Eggs: • Hefty® Easy Grip® Disposable Cups Nestle® Juicy Juice® Bottles (6-pack) 10 oz • LAND O LAKES® All-Natural Eggs • Hanes® ComfortBlend® EcoSmart™ FROZEN • Hefty® Zoo Pals® Cups Nestle® Juicy Juice® Bottles 48, 64 & 96 oz • LAND O LAKES® Omega 3 Eggs • Hanes® ComfortSoft® Heavyweight Green Giant® Vegetables: Disposable Plates and Serveware: Nestle® Juicy Juice® Sparkling Fruit Juice • LAND O LAKES® Cage Free Eggs • Hanes® Cool DRI® T-Shirt • Green Giant® Bagged Vegetables with Sauce • Hefty® Crystal Clear Plates (4-pack) 8.4 oz • LAND O LAKES® Organic Eggs • Hanes® nano-T™ T-Shirt • Green Giant® Just For One!® Vegetables • Hefty® Diamond Deluxe™ Paper Plates Yogurt: • Hanes® Tagless® T-Shirt CEREAL Grands! ® Breakfast Sandwiches • Hefty® Elegantware® Plates and Bowls • Fiber One® Yogurt 4pks Hanes® Printed Polo Shirts Basic 4® Cereal Pillsbury® Egg Scrambles™ • Hefty® Everyday Foam Plates and Bowls • Simply … Go-GURT® Hanes® Printed Sweatshirts ® Cereal: Pillsbury® Pancakes (full & mini size) • Hefty® Hearty Meals™ Plates and Platters • ® Bites • Hanes® ComfortBlend® EcoSmart™ • Apple Cinnamon Cheerios® Cereal Pillsbury® ® Pastries • Hefty® Superweight™ Plates and Bowls • Yoplait® Delights® Parfait 4pks • Hanes® Premium Cotton • Banana Nut Cheerios® Cereal Pillsbury® Toaster Scrambles® Pastries • Hefty® Supreme™ Plates and Bowls • Yoplait® Go-GURT® Yogurt • Hanes® Ultimate Cotton® • Berry Burst Cheerios® Cereal NEW Romano’s Macaroni Grill® • Hefty® Zoo Pals® Funtensils • NEW Yoplait® Greek with Nature Valley® Granola • Chocolate Cheerios® Cereal Totino’s® Crisp Crust Party Pizza® SCHOOL & OFFICE SUPPLIES* • Hefty® Zoo Pals® Plates and Bowls • Yoplait® Kids Yogurt • Cinnamon Burst Cheerios® Cereal Totino’s® Pizza Rolls® Pizza Snacks • Boise® X-9® Hi-Brite Multipurpose Paper** • Yoplait® Kids Yogurt Drink • NEW Dulce de Leche Cheerios® Cereal Totino’s® Pizza Stuffers • Boise® HD:P™ All-In-One Multipurpose WASTE BAGS • Yoplait® Light® 4pk • Frosted Cheerios® Cereal NEW ® Paper** • Hefty® Cinch Sak® Waste Bags • Yoplait® Light Parfait with Granola • Fruity Cheerios® Cereal • Boise® X-9® Multipurpose Paper** • Hefty® EasyFlaps® Waste Bags • Yoplait® Original 4pk • ® Cereal MEALS & SIDES • Boise® FIREWORX® Colored Paper** • Hefty® The Gripper® Tall Kitchen Waste Bags • Yoplait® Smoothie • MultiGrain Cheerios® Cereal Betty Crocker® Specialty Potatoes • Boise® HD P™ Premier Print Ink • Hefty® Kitchen Fresh® Tall Kitchen Waste • Yoplait® Splitz® Yogurt • NEW Multi Grain Cheerios® Peanut Butter Cereal Green Giant® Create a Meal® Jet/Laser Printer Paper** Bags • Yoplait® Trix® Multipack Yogurt • Oat Cluster Cheerios® Crunch® Cereal Green Giant® Canned Veggie Multi Pack • Avery® Dividers • Hefty® Ultra Flex™ Waste Bags Helpers: • Yogurt Burst Cheerios® Cereal SNACKS • Avery® Durable Binders • ® Mixes WATER FILTRATION SYSTEMS AND FILTERS Cascadian Farm® Cereals Betty Crocker® Fruit-Flavored Shapes: • Avery® Glue Stic • Chicken Helper® Mixes • Brita® Bottle Chex® Cereal: • Batman™ Fruit Flavored Shapes • Avery® Heavy Duty Binders • Tuna Helper® Mixes • Brita® Faucet Filtration Systems • Chocolate Chex® Cereal • Care Bears™ Fruit Flavored Shapes • Avery® Labels Hamburger Helper® Complete Meals • Brita® Faucet Replacement Filters • Cinnamon Chex® Cereal • Create A Bug™ Fruit Flavored Shapes • Avery® Label Pads ®: • Brita® Pitchers • Corn Chex® Cereal • Create A Dino™ Fruit Flavored Shapes • Avery® Name Badges • Old El Paso® Dinner Kits • Brita® Pitcher Replacement Filters • Honey Nut Chex® Cereal • My Little Pony™ Fruit Flavored Shapes • Avery® NoteTabs • Old El Paso® Original Seasoning • Brita® UltraMax Dispenser • Multi-Bran Chex® Cereal • Polly Pocket™ Fruit Flavored Shapes • Avery® Office Cards • Old El Paso® Reduced Sodium Seasoning • Rice Chex® Cereal • Fairytale Princess® Fruit Flavored Shapes • Avery® PocketTabs PRODUCTS WITH LIMITED AVAILABILITY • Old El Paso® Re-fried Beans • Strawberry Chex® Cereal • Scooby-Doo™ Fruit Flavored Shapes • Avery® Report Covers Cereals: • Old El Paso® Taco Shells • Wheat Chex® Cereal • Shark Bites Fruit Flavored Snacks • Avery® Sheet Protectors • Boo Berry® Cereal • Old El Paso® Tortillas Cocoa Puffs® Cereal: • Spider-Man® Fruit Flavored Shapes • Avery® Sticky Notes • Count Chocula® Cereal ® Soups • Cocoa Puffs® Combos Cereal • Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles™ Fruit • Avery® T-Shirt Transfers • Country® Corn Flakes Cereal Progresso® Broth • Cocoa Puffs® Brownie Crunch™ Flavored Shapes • Hi-Liter® Brand Highlighters • Franken Berry® Cereal Restaurant Favorites® ® Cereal • Tonka™ Fruit Flavored Shapes • Marks-A-Lot® Markers Desserts: • Romano’s Macaroni Grill® Dora The Explorer® Cereal • Transformers Fruit Shapes • Hershey’s® Brownie Mix • Wanchai Ferry® STORAGE BAGS & CONTAINERS Fiber One® Cereal: Betty Crocker® Fruit-Flavored Snacks: Disposable Plates and Serveware: Suddenly Salad® Mixes Storage Bags: • Fiber One® Caramel Delights™ Cereal • Betty Crocker® ® • Waverly™ Collection by Hefty® • Ziploc® Brand Big Bags • Fiber One® Honey Clusters® Cereal • Betty Crocker® Fruit by the Foot® Plates and Cups REFRIGERATED & DAIRY • Ziploc® Brand Slider Freezer Bags • Fiber One® Raisin Bran Clusters® Cereal • Betty Crocker® Fruit Roll-Ups® Meals: Cookies and Bars: • Ziploc® Brand Slider Storage Bags NEW Frosted Toast Crunch™ Cereal • Fruit Roll-Ups® Fruit Stickerz® • Macaroni Grill® Multi-packs • Pillsbury® Big Deluxe® Cookies • Ziploc® Brand evolve® Bags ® Cereal • Fruit by the Foot® Mini Feet Refrigerated & Frozen: • Pillsbury® Create 'n Bake® Cookies • Ziploc® Brand Flexible Totes ® Cereal • Fruit Roll-Ups® Mini Rolls • ALPINE LACE® Sliced Swiss Cheese • Pillsbury® Ready To Bake! ™ Cookies • Ziploc® Brand Freezer Bags ® Cereal: ® (Club Stores) • Pillsbury® Simply Bake® Bars • Ziploc® Brand Fresh Produce Bags • Berry Berry Kix® Cereal Cascadian Farm® Granola Bars Fiber One® Frozen Muffins • Pillsbury® Simply...™ Cookies • NEW Ziploc® Brand Perfect Portions™ Bags • Honey Kix® Cereal Cheerios® Snack Mix • Pillsbury® Sweet Moments® • Ziploc® Brand Sandwich Bags ® Cereal Chex Mix® Gourmet Blends

visit boxtops4education.com for more great ideas to earn cash for our school! JANUARY 2012

* Box Tops packaging arriving in stores starting in June 2011. **Only select weights and sizes of these brands are available in reams carrying the Box Tops for Education coupon. NESTLÉ® and JUICY JUICE® are registered trademarks of Société des produits Nestlé S.A.,Vevey, Switzerland. All Boise trademarks are owned by Boise Paper Holdings, L.L.C., or its affiliates. The trademark BOISE is owned by Boise Cascade, L.L.C., or its affiliates. Ziploc® is a registered trademark of S.C. Johnson and Son, Inc. All rights reserved. Kleenex®, Scott®, Viva®, Huggies®, Pull-Ups®, Goodnites®, Kotex®, Depend®, Poise® and Cottonelle® are the registered trademarks of Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. Hefty®, Easy Grip®, Elegantware®, Zoo Pals®, The Gripper®, Cinch Sak® and Kitchen Fresh® are registered trademarks of Pactiv Corporation. Avery®, Hi-Liter® and Marks-A-Lot® are registered trademarks of Avery Dennison Corporation. LAND O LAKES, ALPINE LACE, FRESH BUTTERY TASTE, and SNACK’N CHEESE TO-GO! are registered trademarks of Land O’Lakes, Inc. BRITA and BRITA Logo are registered trademarks of Brita, LP. Yoplait is a registered trademark of YOPLAIT MARQUES (France) used under license. Romano’s Macaroni Grill® is used under license by . Trademarks referred to herein are the property of their respective owners.