We Show Cougar Pride When We Give FIVE!

1. Follow directions

2. Use kind words

3. Keep my hands and feet to myself

4. Make safe choices

5. DO MY BEST!

Friday, April 26, 2013

Kildeer Principal's Message 4/26/13


A Look Back...

Kildeer Brings in ANOTHER Blue Ribbon! ~ We have been recognized this week for our PE program, and have officially received another Blue Ribbon for the outstanding work and collaboration of our PE teachers!  We're so proud of their work to promote a healthy life, focused on fun and fitness! All children benefit five days a week from the rewards of physical education at Kildeer.  Thank you and congratulations to Mrs. Blair, Mr. Emde, and Mrs. Lehtman!

 Spring Book Fair & Author Visit ~ A huge thank you to our PTO for their work at the book fair this week and bringing author, Aaron Reynolds, to Kildeer for all of us to enjoy!

 5th Grade Showcase ~ The 5th graders really showed their stuff at the 5th Grade Showcase this week.  Through their collaborative efforts in art, music, and PE, students made a dvd featuring their talents.  Great job to our 5th graders, who are especially thankful for all of their specials teachers!

 Bernie's Book Drive ~ Together we can make a difference!  Such exciting news; Kildeer School
will be donating 12,154 children's books to Bernie's Book Bank! This means we over than tripled our original goal of 4,000 books. Over 2,000 children will receive 6 books each from our donations. Check out this video to see the good this does for kids. Thank you so much to our enthusiastic students, parents, and staff.  Fabulous job!
A Look Ahead... 
ABC Countdown to the End of the School Year begins Wednesday, May 1 ~ The link is posted in the forms section below. Please go to the site to see some of the fun things we have planned for students during our last 26 days of the school year.


A Message from The Student Council~Please Help us Collect Supplies so... 
TOGETHER, WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Orphanage Project
This Summer a group of volunteers including one of our own Kildeer staff is going on a trip to Mexico to help out at an orphanage in need. The orphanage is located in Vicente, Guerrero. The volunteers of this project have decided to do a fun craft called Rain Sticks.

There are 90 students in the orphanage but only 60 children will participate in the project. Student Council is requesting supplies for the fun activity the pupils can enjoy. Rain sticks are fun "tubes" that when you turn them over and over they sound like falling rain. It’s a lot of fun for children to just turn it over and over again and again. The legend of the craft is the more you shake it the more it will rain.

Rain sticks include:
Cardboard paper towel tubes
Colored tape
Aluminum foil
Stickers
Colored pipe cleaners
Uncooked dried rice

You can drop off the supplies at the office, in the art room and some days there will be people at the entry doors for the morning bus and parent drop off.

We would greatly appreciate any donations of the listed supplies.

Duncan, from Student Council


Registration for New Families ~ Do you have or know of any new families in the Kildeer School community? Please remind them to come in and register their children for next year. Your help is greatly appreciated.

Registration Update–Register by May 17 to Save ~ Registration emails were sent out April 1 for the 2013-14 school year. ALL students who will attend District 96 in the Aug. 2013–June 2014 school year must register.  Click on the link in the registration email you were sent to open the online registration form for your student. The subject line of the email reads: "Register your District 96 Student for 2013–2014 School Year."  Please read carefully to confirm the accuracy of the information that appears. It is very important that we have current contact information for your family to send you communications and to reach you in an emergency. Please update your information as necessary. Registration questions? Please call 847.459.4260, ext. 7722

From the Office ~ 
Tardy Students ~ Our tardies are exceedingly numerous, and your efforts to get students here before 8:20 are greatly appreciated. If students are late, please come into the office with your child to sign-in.
Moving over the summer? ~ Please contact the Kildeer Office to get started on the paperwork to provide for a smooth transition.  Thank you.

  Forms & Information
Click here for access to new archived forms, student opportunities, and information.
  • ABC Countdown Calendar ~ click here
Calendar Highlights for Next Week
This is a brief look at what's ahead. Please be sure to follow D96 ENews and our Kildeer PTO Newsletter.
  • Monday, April 29 - MAP Testing begins thru Friday,  May 10th
  • Wednesday, May 1 - ABC Countdown begins.  See link above.
  • Thursday, May 2 - Dessert Day
  • Friday, May 3 - Grade 1 In-House Field Trip @ 9:00-10:30 a.m.
PTO Highlight of the Week
Mark your calendars!  Our PTO Volunteer Breakfast and PTO General Meeting is on May 22nd!

Posted by at

Saturday, April 20, 2013

Kildeer Principal's Message 4/19/13



A Look Back...

Incoming First Grade Mo Willems Reading Night ~ This is always a fun evening, as our little incoming 1st graders get to come to Kildeer for activities to help build excitement and ease any nerves about coming here next year.  Our current first graders and Student Council members welcomed the incoming group by reading stories and facilitating activities, all in the first grade classrooms.  It was a very fun evening!  Thank you to to the PTO for your work to make this such a special night.  Thank you also to the participating teachers and Student Council of Kildeer!

Cougar Pride Assembly ~ The theme of our assembly today was "Together We Can...CELEBRATE!"  and boy, did we!  We had so many students to recognize for their efforts, including for reading 20+ Bluestem books, artistic talents, raising over $9,000.00 for the American Heart Association, and of course the hundreds of kids that were recognized for demonstrating our Cougar 5!  Kids also got to hear from Bernie's Book Bank today to understand the full meaning behind their work to collect books for kids who don't have access.    We've already collected passed our goal of collecting 4,000 just in this first week!  We doubled our goal to inspire kids to keep up this amazing work and are now aiming for 8,000.  We are already over 6,000!!  We also celebrated the work we've done through our buddy classrooms, Cougar Communities, that brought all children together from different grade levels to learn strategies that help us all show our Cougar 5 at all times.  If you want to know or be reminded of the themes of that work, check out our Cougar Pride website by clicking here.  Explore the full Cougar Pride website to learn all about the ways we guide our students around social emotional learning.  

A Look Ahead... 
MONDAY (4/22) AT KILDEER IS AN EXCITING NIGHT!  DON'T MISS IT!!  
5:30 p.m. Author Visit with Aaron Reynolds ~ The night kicks off with a visit from author Aaron Reynolds.  He'll be at Kildeer during the day meeting with each grade level.  In the evening he'll join us for parents and kids to enjoy together.  He'll be reading his popular book, Creepy Carrots.  He'll also be signing books. THANK YOU, PTO, for bringing this to our children and families!
6-7:30 p.m. 5th Grade Showcase ~ Be sure to visit the collaborative efforts of our 5th graders using their Art, Music, and P.E. skills in the large gym.
6-8:00 p.m. Spring Book Fair ~ Our Scholastic Book Fair theme – Story Laboratory: Reading Gives You Super Power! – is part of an incredible energy source for reading that brings to school a wonderful selection of fun, engaging, and affordable books kids want to read. Giving kids access to good books and the opportunity to choose their own books will motivate them to read more. And like most acquired skills, the more kids practice reading, the better they’ll get.
Bernie's Book Drive ~ FACT:  61% of at-risk families have no books at all in their homes for their children.  Don't forget to bring in any books your kids have grown out of while you are picking up some new books at our book fair.  We are so proud of this work at Kildeer and kids are experiencing the powerful reward and life lesson of giving back.  Bernie's Books puts books in the hands of kids who otherwise wouldn't have access to reading materials in their home.  We've already blown past our goal of collecting 4,000 books and are currently over 6,000.  We adjusted our goal to collect 8,000 books.  I'm hoping we exceed this as well!  Please bring in your gently used books while visiting us Monday night.  THANK YOU!  Check out this video to see the good this does for kids. 
Pizza ~ We've got dinner covered as well, so come on by and enjoy this night with your family!
Registration for New Families ~ Do you have or know of any new families in the Kildeer School area?  Please remind them to come in an register their children for next year.  Your help is greatly appreciated.
Registration Update–Register by May 17 to Save ~ Registration emails were sent out April 1 for the 2013-14 school year. ALL students who will attend District 96 in the Aug. 2013–June 2014 school year must register.  Click on the link in the registration email you were sent to open the online registration form for your student. The subject line of the email reads: "Register your District 96 Student for 2013–2014 School Year."  Please read carefully to confirm the accuracy of the information that appears. It is very important that we have current contact information for your family to send you communications and to reach you in an emergency. Please update your information as necessary. Registration questions? Please call 847.459.4260, ext. 7722

From the Attendance Office ~ Please remember to call the attendance office if your child will not be in school. That is a big help to us.  Please also remember how important it is to send notes to school with your student regarding changes in after school plans. Notes are appreciated the morning of.  Please make every effort to get your child to school on time.  It is always best for our students to start their day on a positive note.  Our tardies are exceedingly numerous and your efforts to get here before 8:20 are greatly appreciated.

  Forms & Information
Click here for access to archived forms, student opportunities, and information.

Calendar Highlights for Next Week
This is a brief look at what's ahead. Please be sure to follow D96 ENews and our Kildeer PTO Newsletter.
  • April 22-24~ Spring Book Fair 8a.m.-4p.m.
  • Monday, April 22 ~ Evening Book Fair @ 6:00-8:00
  • Monday, April 22 ~Author, Aaron Reynolds Presentation and Book Signing @ 5:30p.m.
  • Monday, April 22 ~ Grade 5 Showcase @ 6:00-7:30 p.m. large gym
  • Tuesday, April 23 ~ EARLY RELEASE DAY @ 2:00 p.m.
  • Thursday, April 25 ~ Dessert Day
  • Thursday, April 25 ~ PTO Incoming 1st Graders Parent Welcome
  • Friday, April 26 ~ Bernie's Book Drive Ends-Help us meet our goal to collect 8,000 books!


    PTO Highlight of the Week
    Don’t forget to buy your Flower Certificates from the PTO before you start planting for Spring!  Sale ends May 17th.

    Posted by at

    Saturday, April 13, 2013

    Kildeer Principal's Message 4/12/13



    A Look Back...

    Cultural Arts Thodos Dance ~ Students loved the performance by Thodos Dance this week!  Thank you to the PTO for finding this talent to share with our students.  The year of Cultural Arts assemblies we've had this year has been outstanding.  Thank you also for all of the parent volunteers who have helped out with the assemblies this year.  We have the best parents in the world!!!

    Fifth Grade Variety Show ~ What a night to remember!  Many of our fifth graders performed and participated as emcees and stage crew in our Fifth Grade Variety Show.  These children worked so hard to put on a show that was filled with talent of all kinds.  There was dancing, singing, instrumental performances (including an iPad piano!), a karate demonstration, a game show, fun commercials, and much more.  The creativity and talent soared!  I even got to get in on the fun when some moms asked me to surprise their boys by coming in at the end of their Harlem Shake dance in the Champ costume.  Although I couldn't see a thing, I hear the boys were quite surprised!  I can't wait to see the video playback on that and all the fun that was had over the night.  The emcees did a wonderful job cracking us up and keeping the fun rolling.  The stage crew made the whole production seem effortless!  A few of the boys (with the fabulous assistance of Mrs. Sarlitto) created a picture montage that captured all of the fun over the course of the rehearsals that brought tears to my eyes. The grand finale was ALL of the kids dancing to "Gangnam Style" together!  Absolutely precious!

    Of course, none of this could have happened without the leadership and very hard work of the PTO Variety Show committee.  They also had many parents who stepped in to help out.  This group of individuals did an outstanding job and gave our fifth grade participants a night they will never forget.

    On a personal note, this was a night where motherhood and work came together under one magical evening.  A special thank you to student Mary who watched over Jocie (my daughter) all night!  She will be talking about this night forever and has told me she MUST go to Kildeer very soon to see all of her new friends.  It fills me up to know that a place I feel is my second home feels the same way for my daughter.  Thank you to everyone!


    A Look Ahead... 

    Blue Ribbon Gazette ~ Please click the link below to read the new edition put to press by Kildeer's Newspaper Club.
    https://docs.google.com/a/kcsd96.org/file/d/0BxJJfEpPSUbrZkJYaXZ1UEx0dVU/edit

    Cougar Pride Assembly ~ On Friday, April 19th students and staff come together to celebrate Kildeer. This is a great day for student to wear their Cougar Apparel or Kildeer colors of blue and yellow.

    Registration Update–Register by May 17 to Save ~ Registration emails were sent out April 1 for the 2013-14 school year. ALL students who will attend District 96 in the Aug. 2013–June 2014 school year must register.  Click on the link in the registration email you were sent to open the online registration form for your student. The subject line of the email reads: "Register your District 96 Student for 2013–2014 School Year."  Please read carefully to confirm the accuracy of the information that appears. It is very important that we have current contact information for your family to send you communications and to reach you in an emergency. Please update your information as necessary. Registration questions? Please call 847.459.4260, ext. 7722

    From the Attendance Office ~ Please remember to call the attendance office if your child will not be in school. That is a big help to us.  Please also remember how important it is to send notes to school with your student regarding changes in after school plans. Notes are appreciated the morning of.  Please make every effort to get your child to school on time.  It is always best for our students to start their day on a positive note.  Our tardies are exceedingly numerous and your efforts to get here before 8:20 are greatly appreciated.

    Bernie's Book Drive ~ WE ARE READY TO GO! Our Bernie's Book Bank drive OFFICIALLY starts on Monday. The kids have been so excited and are anxious to get started. We are getting bins to collect the books on Friday so bring in the books from Monday, April 15-april 26. Our goal is 4,000 books but we would GLADLY take more!

    Spend the evening with us on Monday, April 22 and see our author, Aaron Reynolds, at 5:30 pm, view the 5th grade homemade CDs and visit the book Fair. Pizza will be available for dinner.

      Forms & Information
    Click here for access to archived forms, student opportunities, and information.

    Calendar Highlights for Next Week
    This is a brief look at what's ahead. Please be sure to follow D96 ENews and our Kildeer PTO Newsletter.
    • Friday, April 12 ~ 5th Grade Variety Show @ 7:00 p.m.
    • Monday, April 15 ~ Bernie's Book Bank Drive begins
    • Thursday, April 18 ~ Dessert Day
    • Thursday, April 18 ~ Evening Story Time @ 6:30-7:30 p.m. This is an event for INCOMING FIRST GRADERS, CURRENT FIRST GRADERS, AND THEIR PARENTS ONLY!  No Siblings.  Please abide by this request.
    • Friday, April 19 ~ PTO Special Lunch - Go Roma
    • Friday, April 19 ~ Cougar Pride Assembly - Students and Staff Only ~ Where your Kildeer spirit wear or blue and gold!
      PTO Highlight of the Week

      Ready for Spring?  Our PTO Flower Sale begins April 15th!  Evening Story Time for our Incoming and current first graders in on April 18 at 6:30 p.m. No siblings, please.

      Posted by at

      Friday, April 5, 2013

      Kildeer Principal's Message ~ 4/5/13


      A Look Back...

      4th Grade Musical ~ Mr. Tatar did an amazing job with our 4th graders for their musical, Beebop Aesop! What a fun night!  Thank you to the full specials team for their help to also make the night such a success for the kids.

      Kildeer Blue Ribbon Gazette ~ Click here to read the latest edition of our student news paper!

      A Look Ahead... 


      Straight from the Superintendents

      On Wed., Apr. 10, 7 p.m., at Stevenson High School (West Building, Rm. 2104), superintendents from Districts 96, 102, 103, and Stevenson will talk about ways they are working together to improve student learning and organizational efficiency. Their discussion will also focus on the new Common Core learning standards.
      Join District 96 Superintendent Julie Schmidt and her peers to learn more. 
      Stevenson High School is located at One Stevenson Drive, Lincolnshire. Park in Lot B.


      Registration Update–Register by May 17 to Save ~ Registration emails were sent out April 1 for the 2013-14 school year. ALL students who will attend District 96 in the Aug. 2013–June 2014 school year must register.  Click on the link in the registration email you were sent to open the online registration form for your student. The subject line of the email reads: "Register your District 96 Student for 2013–2014 School Year."  Please read carefully to confirm the accuracy of the information that appears. It is very important that we have current contact information for your family to send you communications and to reach you in an emergency. Please update your information as necessary. Registration questions? Please call 847.459.4260, ext. 7722

      From the Attendance Office ~ Please remember to call the attendance office if your child will not be in school. That is a big help to us.  Please also remember how important it is to send notes to school with your student regarding changes in after school plans. Notes are appreciated the morning of.  Please make every effort to get your child to school on time.  It is always best for our students to start their day on a positive note.  Our tardies are exceedingly numerous and your efforts to get here before 8:20 are greatly appreciated.

      Parent-to-Parent Network (P2P) ~ As busy families, it's harder than ever to connect with other parents experiencing the same pleasures–and challenges!–involved in raising our kids. Building community in our schools and as a district helps us develop friendships and support each other. The District's Parent-to-Parent (P2P) Network exists for that very purpose, and I hope you have been able to attend some P2P programs this year. If your calendar allows, the last P2P program of sounds like fun:
      Moms Need to Laugh
      The D96 Parent-to-Parent Network is inviting all moms to The Grove Country Club (formerly Hillcrest), 3217 Rt. 53, Long Grove, at 10:30 a.m. on Fri., Apr. 12, for a program presented by Second City-trained professional keynote Sally Edwards. This program is just for fun–for moms who could use a good laugh and a comedian's insight into "women's life stages' and "the secret to a good life." Don't miss this chance to meet other District 96 moms and enjoy some time together. The program is FREE. Guests also have the option to stay for lunch afterward if they choose ($18, including beverage, tax, and tip; order when seated from a menu including salads and sandwiches). DO YOU PLAN TO ATTEND?

      Bernie's Book Drive ~ Children can start bringing books in for our gently used book drive on April 15th.  The kids are getting excited to reach our goal of collecting 4,000 books!  

        Forms & Information
      Click here for access to archived forms, student opportunities, and information.

      Calendar Highlights for Next Week
      This is a brief look at what's ahead. Please be sure to follow D96 ENews and our Kildeer PTO Newsletter.
      • Monday, April 8 ~ EARLY DISMISSAL @ 2:00 p.m.
      • Monday, April 8 ~ Variety Show Dress Rehearsal @ 2-4:40 p.m.
      • Monday, April 8 ~ Parent/Teacher Conferences @ 5-8:30 p.m.
      • Tuesday, April 9 ~ NO SCHOOL
      • Tuesday, April 9 ~ Parent/Teacher Conferences @ 10:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. 
      • Thursday, April 11 ~ Dessert Day
      • Friday, April 12 ~ 5th Grade Variety Show @ 7:00 p.m.
        PTO Highlight of the Week
        Make sure to checkout the remaining auction items for sale from Bingo Blast! You can get some great deals while also supporting Kildeer! 
         We also have our Olivia’s Past Day of Fashion on April 11th! Bring in your girlfirends, have fun, and 15% goes to our PTO!
        Posted by at

        Friday, March 22, 2013

        Principal's Message 3/22/13

        A Look Back... 

         Cougar Communities ~ A MUST SEE!  This is a total blast.  Check out this link to view the Cougar Communities video about responsible decision making our students got to experience this week.  This work contributes to the social emotional learning of our students and gives opportunities for kids across grade levels to talk about ways we support one another as a school family.  By clicking this link you'll be able to learn about many teachings our students have received this year.  So....don't miss it!  Click here.

         Cultural Arts Assembly ~ Thank you to our PTO for the fun-filled assembly this week!  It was a great way to kick off our Spring Break.

         Boys/Girls Night Out ~ Both events were a huge success.  Country Meadows and Kildeer PTO's and parents do so much to make this special for our students.  Thank you so much!  
         A Look Ahead... 

        Attention 5th Grade Parents!  Please join us for a casual, informal discussion with Woodlawn Principal, Mr. Grana, at 8:45 a.m. on Friday, April 5th.  This is an opportunity to join Mr. Grana and me to ask questions about the transition to middle school.  If you decide to join us, we ask that you please r.s.v.p. to pcampbell@kcsd96.org so that we are able to prepare badges and determine an appropriate space.  Thank you!

        Security Enhancements ~ If you didn't already see the Superintendent's Message with this information, click here to read about the security enhancements that will be in place very shortly across the district.

        Conferences ~ April 8 and 9 If you don't already have information about the upcoming parent/teacher conferences, contact your child's teacher.

         Girls on the Run ~  Many of our girls who participate in the after school club, Girls on the Run, will be participating in a 5k run at the end of the school year.  Anyone is welcome to take part in this fun family event, regardless of whether or not they are in the program.  For more details, click here.
        From the P.E. Depart ~ Pedometer Program
        Dear Parents,

        We are very excited to be able to have your child participate in our “Take Home Pedometer Program” at Kildeer. This is offered to all 5th grade students as a part of our physical fitness unit.  The objective of this program is to identify the activity levels of each student, assess those levels, and determine if he/she is in the healthy range.  We are hoping that with the information that is collected via their responses from their worksheets, we can discover new ways to increase everyday lifestyle activities.  To maintain healthy levels of physical activity, students need to accumulate 10,000 -12,000 steps a day.  We are most fortunate to be in a district that supports daily physical education, and this program should help students and parents realize how important it is to be engaged in physical activity OUTSIDE of school.

        Beginning in April, your child’s class will be responsible for checking out a pedometer and activity worksheet.  We will let the students know when it is their turn to take a pedometer home since we only have a limited number as of right now.  They will keep this pedometer for a week and wear it daily.  The pedometer should be put on in the morning and taken off before bed.  The number of steps taken for each day will be recorded on the activity sheet, however this information will not be shared with their classmates.  The students will also be responsible for answering several questions on the worksheet as well.  The worksheet, along with the pedometer, will be returned the following week.  The worksheet will become a part of the student’s fitness unit.  Although your child’s fitness level will not be used as a part of their physical education grade, the completion of this assignment will be included. We also understand that many activities, such as swimming, can not be recorded as steps but surely can be included on their activity sheet.

        The pedometers are bar-coded or numbered and will be checked out from the PE office (worksheet included) and assigned to each student.  It is the student’s responsibility to take care of their pedometer and complete their daily worksheet.  A parent signature is also required on their worksheet when the assignment has been completed.

         IF THE PEDOMETER IS LOST OR BROKEN, A $20.00 FEE WILL BE CHARGED TO COVER THE EQUIPMENT EXPENSE.

        We are hoping that the children will have fun learning new ways to “get off the couch” or away from their computers and video games!  If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call us.

        Thank you for your support on behalf of your child.

        Mrs. Blair , Mr. Emde and Mrs. Lehtman

        Updates on our Author Visit & Bernie's Book Drive! ~ 
        Author Visit:
        We are not taking any more Author Visit Pre-Orders at this time. The books Creepy Carrots and Back of the Bus will be available for purchase at the book fair and the author will stay to autograph these books after the evening visit. Mrs. Schumer has also ordered a small number of extra copies of many of the titles that can be purchased on a first come, first serve basis after she picks them up April 14th. The kids are excited for our visit with Author Aaron Reynolds.

        Bernies Book Bank:
        Kildeer kids are ready to help! All the kids have been informed about our book drive from April 15-April 26th. Many kids have already said that they have books ready to donate. I had one student tell me today she has already been able to gather over 400 BOOKS!  Wow!  The difference Kildeer will make!  Please hang on to these books until these dates since we will not have bins for storage until then. We also asked the kids to check with you before they bring in the books! Thanks ahead of time for your help.  This annual event is very special to us and makes a difference for so many.

        Forms & Information
        Click here for access to archived forms, student opportunities, and information.

        Calendar Highlights for Next Week
        This is a brief look at what's ahead. Please be sure to follow D96 ENews and our Kildeer PTO Newsletter.
        • Monday, March 25 ~ March 29 ~ SPRING BREAK
        • Monday, March 25 ~ Passover Begins at Sundown
        • Friday, March 29 ~ Good Friday
        • Sunday, March 31 ~ Easter
        • Monday, April 1~ School Resumes
        • Tuesday, April 2 ~ Board of Education Meeting @ 7:00 p.m. Ivy Hall
        • Thursday, April 4 ~ Dessert Day
        • Thursday, April 4 ~ 4th Grade Music Performance @ 7:00 p.m.
        • Friday, April 5 ~ Keepin' Up with Kildeer - 5th grade parents meet with Mr. Grana @ 8:45 a.m.
        • Monday, April 8 ~ EARLY DISMISSAL @ 2:00 p.m.
        • Monday, April 8 ~ Variety Show Dress Rehearsal @ 2-4:40 p.m.
        • Monday, April 8 ~ Parent/Teacher Conferences @ 5-8:30 p.m.
        • Tuesday, April 9 ~ NO SCHOOL
        • Tuesday, April 9 ~ Parent/Teacher Conferences @ 10:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. 
        • Wednesday, April 10 ~ Variety Show Dress Rehearsal @ 3-5:30 p.m.
        • Thursday, April 11 ~ Dessert Day
        • Friday, April 12 ~ 5th Grade Variety Show @ 7:00 p.m.
        The Kildeer Staff Wishes You a Safe and

          PTO Highlight of the Week

          Don’t forget our Day of Fashion at Olivia’s Past in Long Grove on April 11th.  15% of sales will go directly to our Kildeer PTO!


          Thanks to our PTO for all of your support!
          Posted by at

          Friday, March 15, 2013

          Kildeer Principal's message - 3/15/13


          A Look Back... 

           5th Grade Transition To Middle School Information ~ Parents of current 5th graders, if you missed the orientation program presented this week on Tues., Mar. 12, here are MIDDLE SCHOOL PARENT ORIENTATION PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS. School supply kits for students who will attend Woodlawn next year must be purchased through Woodlawn by Mar. 22 (the original deadline of Mar. 15 has been extended by 1 week, so order promptly). MORE INFO

           A Look Ahead... 
          Author Visit & Bernie's Book Drive! ~ Last chance to pre-order books from our visiting author, Aaron Reynolds. ALL ORDERS ARE DUE MONDAY, MARCH 18TH!  He will be presenting at our school on April 22 and will autograph these books for the kids. Remember that he will also be doing a family presentation in the evening, so mark your calendars now. This is the same evening as Fine Arts Night and evening hours for the book fair. Pizza will also be served, so plan on spending the evening at Kildeer School on April 22.  Helpful links:
          Learning Center Website for more information about our author
          Form to pre-order books for our Aaron Reynolds visit

          OUT WITH THE OLD AND IN WITH THE NEW!  Time for spring cleaning of your bookshelves.  Bring in your gently used books between April 15-April 26th. Then treat your kids to some new books at the bookfair the week of April 22nd.  Our school goal is to collect at least 4,000 books for local children in need of books. We are also having a contest to see which classroom can collect the most books. Click here to check out the wonderful organization, Bernie's Book Bank, that we partner with for this cause.  Their mission is to put quality children’s books into “at-risk” homes, ensuring that children have access to books from birth, and arrive to school “reading ready."

           Creating balanced class lists           that meet the needs of all students is a tremendously difficult job that takes many hours of thoughtful dialogue between classroom teachers, administrators, and other staff members. We at Kildeer take it very seriously. The process for class list creation is as follows:
          • First, teachers think about the social and academic needs of each of their current students while recording pertinent information to assist in the decision making process.
          • Next, teachers meet together as grade level teams to form class lists that are balanced in terms of academic, social, and emotional needs as well as considering friendships and other areas. This is no easy task and often takes several meetings. Teachers consider each child’s personality, academic needs, friendship patterns, etc. as they make a match for each individual child. Specialists and the specials team collaborate with the teams as needed during this process as well, and I attend each of these meetings.
          • Each grade level team types a draft set of class lists that are then submitted to me. One at a time, I will consider each student and his/her placement. At this time, parent input is also considered. Any changes in the draft lists are reviewed by the classroom teachers to ensure balance. 
          • Final class lists are then created in August with summer changes for move ins/outs reflected.
          This process happens at grades 1-4. Willow Grove creates the class lists for our incoming kindergartners enrolled there and I will add in students who attend private kindergartens. Our 5th grade team actively works with Woodlawn to provide data and input related to placement decisions as well.
          We strongly believe that this detailed and collaborative process creates learning environments that benefit all students. It is a delicate balancing act which takes much consideration and thought by professionals who know and care about your children. Our goal is to create balanced class lists that promote the success of each child. Please know that your child is placed in a classroom for very specific reasons. The process benefits all students. Because of the input and thought given by teachers, parents, and administrators, we are very reluctant to make changes once this process occurs, as removing or moving one child can disrupt the balance of a class, impacting all students. 

          I welcome any insight you wish to share about your child’s strengths, needs, and learning style. I will take into consideration pertinent information about your child’s learning style and needs, received on or before FRIDAY, APRIL 26th, 2013. While we welcome your input, specific teacher requests will not be honored. Please put your thoughts in writing and address them to me (Jenny Smith) either via hard copy letter or email (jsmith@kcsd96.org).  

          *I cannot express enough how important it is that your thoughts are in writing. Verbal information is nearly impossible to track. Further, please direct all of this communication to me as ultimately I am responsible for reviewing final class lists in August when teachers are not working.  

          Latest Edition of the Kildeer Blue Ribbon Gazette made by our student Newspaper Club! ~ click here.  

          2013-2014 District 96 School Year Calendar Approved ~ Please visit this link to view the school calendar for next year.

          Attention Parents of Fifth-Graders ~ The D96 Parent-to-Parent (P2P) Network is partnering with Woodlawn and Twin Groves Middle School principals and staff to present a brand-new transition program for parents whose current fifth-grade students will be attending middle school in August 2013.

          Forms & Information
          Click here for access to archived forms, student opportunities, and information.
          Form to pre-order books for our Aaron Reynolds visit-Due MONDAY!

          Calendar Highlights for Next Week
          This is a brief look at what's ahead. Please be sure to follow D96 ENews and our Kildeer PTO Newsletter.
          • Tuesday, March 19 ~ EARLY RELEASE DAY @ 2:00
          • Wednesday, March 20 ~ Cultural Arts Program  @ 12:45 - 2:45
          • Thursday, March 21 ~ Grade 5 Girls Night Out @ 7:00 - 8:30
          • Thursday, March 21 ~ Dessert Day
          • Monday, March 25 ~ March 29 ~ SPRING BREAK
          • Monday, April 1~ School Resumes
            PTO Highlight of the Week

            It’s our 5th Grade Girls Night Out on March 21st!

            Parents,
            Did you know the important role school volunteers play in making schools better and helping students succeed? The PTO provides opportunities to children and families that help to establish a community. They also provide additional resources that impact student learning in the classroom. Thank you to all of our volunteers who make such a difference!
            Sincerely,
            Jenny Smith
            Principal
            We would love for you to become involved in your Kildeer PTO! We are looking for volunteers to chair our 2013/2014 committees.  Check out the PTO newsletter for details!



            Thanks to our PTO for all of your support!
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            Friday, March 8, 2013

            Principal's Message 3/8/13


            A Look Back... 


             ISAT Testing is well underway and should wrap up on Monday, with the exception of makeup testing for children whom have been absent.  

             Hoops for Heart/Jump Rope for Heart
            Over 120 students participated in our Hoops for Heart (5th grade) and Jump Rope for Heart (2nd, 3rd and 4th grade) events. Not only did the children do a terrific job and get a lot of exercise, but they also had tons of fun as well. We are also thrilled to announce that as of this date, Kildeer school has raised over $8,000.00 for the American Heart Association to help provide the necessary funding for research to fight heart disease. We are so proud of everyone who joined us to help make this happen. Hooray for Kildeer!!! :)
            ~Mrs. Blair and Mr. Emde

             Fourth-Grader Wins "Artist of the Week" on Artsonia- the Largest Kids' Art Museum
            Long Grove, IL -- March 4th, 2013-- Francesca, a first grade artist in Miss Jones class loves to share her artwork with others and last week it really paid off!  Her recent "Snakes" picture (www.artsonia.com/Francesca329) received over 1400 online votes earning Francesca the honor of "Artist of the Week" on Artsonia, the largest kids' art museum.  A commemorative plaque from Artsonia, which features her artwork, is being presented to Francesca by her art teacher, Mrs. Norman.
            The winning piece is from "Snakes - 4th Grade," a class project that was published on Artsonia by Mrs. Norman.  After first learning about Snakes in their homeroom, the students headed for the art room, where they discussed what snakes look like using colors, shapes and sizes. Francesca and her classmates then created their own Snakes masterpieces. The entire school art gallery is available for viewing at www.artsonia.com/schools/KildeerCountryside1. 

            From artwork submitted the previous week, Artsonia selects twelve random art submissions from each of four different age groups (grades PreK-3, 4-6, 7-9, 10-12) to represent the finalists in that week's contest. Voting is open to the general public every Wednesday-Saturday, with the winners from each age group being awarded on Sunday.
            More than 19 million pieces of artwork are viewable on Artsonia, and any teacher or parent can create an online art gallery for their child or school. Artsonia provides several online features such as fan clubs and personal guest-books, as a way for families to encourage the creativity and imaginations of their young artists. In addition, family members can purchase keepsakes imprinted with the child's artwork, with Artsonia donating 20 percent of their annual product revenue back to school art programs.
            Headquartered in Gurnee, Ill., Artsonia was established in 2000 as an online kid's art museum providing free, educational resources for kids, families and schools to create art projects. Since its inception, Artsonia continues to integrate technology in the classroom, develop multi-cultural understanding through art and increase family involvement in children's education. To find out more, visit and see your child's artwork gallery, visit www.artsonia.com.
             A Look Ahead... 

            Creating balanced class lists that meet the needs of all students is a tremendously difficult job that takes many hours of thoughtful dialogue between classroom teachers, administrators, and other staff members. We at Kildeer take it very seriously. The process for class list creation is as follows:
            • First, teachers think about the social and academic needs of each of their current students while recording pertinent information to assist in the decision making process.
            • Next, teachers meet together as grade level teams to form class lists that are balanced in terms of academic, social, and emotional needs as well as considering friendships and other areas. This is no easy task and often takes several meetings. Teachers consider each child’s personality, academic needs, friendship patterns, etc. as they make a match for each individual child. Specialists and the specials team collaborate with the teams as needed during this process as well, and I attend each of these meetings.
            • Each grade level team types a draft set of class lists that are then submitted to me. One at a time, I will consider each student and his/her placement. At this time, parent input is also considered. Any changes in the draft lists are reviewed by the classroom teachers to ensure balance. 
            • Final class lists are then created in August with summer changes for move ins/outs reflected.
            This process happens at grades 1-4. Willow Grove creates the class lists for our incoming kindergartners enrolled there and I will add in students who attend private kindergartens. Our 5th grade team actively works with Woodlawn to provide data and input related to placement decisions as well.
            We strongly believe that this detailed and collaborative process creates learning environments that benefit all students. It is a delicate balancing act which takes much consideration and thought by professionals who know and care about your children. Our goal is to create balanced class lists that promote the success of each child. Please know that your child is placed in a classroom for very specific reasons. The process benefits all students. Because of the input and thought given by teachers, parents, and administrators, we are very reluctant to make changes once this process occurs, as removing or moving one child can disrupt the balance of a class, impacting all students. 
             
            I welcome any insight you wish to share about your child’s strengths, needs, and learning style. I will take into consideration pertinent information about your child’s learning style and needs, received on or before FRIDAY, APRIL 26th, 2013. While we welcome your input, specific teacher requests will not be honored. Please put your thoughts in writing and address them to me (Jenny Smith) either via hard copy letter or email (jsmith@kcsd96.org).  I cannot express enough how important it is that your thoughts are in writing. Verbal information is nearly impossible to track. Further, please direct all of this communication to me as ultimately I am responsible for reviewing final class lists in August when teachers are not working.  

             Author Visit! ~ We are so excited to have Aaron Reynolds join us for a day of reading fun. He will be presenting to our students during the day on Monday, April 22. As a bonus treat, he will also do a different presentation in the evening for parents and families. Our book fair will be happening that evening too. Visit the Kildeer website (right on the homepage) for the order form- Aaron will even sign the books! Books will be on display in the office starting the week of March 4th, and Mrs. Schumer will introduce the books to all the kids. Creepy Carrots will be available the night of the presentation for purchase at the book fair. What a fun night! THANK YOU PTO!  Click here for access to our Learning Center website for more information on this and online resources you'll love!

            Latest Edition of the Kildeer Gazette made by our student Newspaper Club! ~ click here.

            2013-2014 District 96 School Year Calendar Approved ~ Please visit this link to view the school calendar for next year.


            Attention Parents of Fifth-Graders ~ The D96 Parent-to-Parent (P2P) Network is partnering with Woodlawn and Twin Groves Middle School principals and staff to present a brand-new transition program for parents whose current fifth-grade students will be attending middle school in August 2013.

            This don’t-miss program on Tues., Mar. 12, @ 7 p.m., Woodlawn Middle School Gym, for ALL District 96 parents of current fifth graders will feature a student panel for Q&A and practical transition tips, middle school staff, and Principals Heather Friziellie and Greg Grana.

            Please note that this program replaces the school-based programs presented in previous years. One program/one date for ALL parents of current D96 fifth-grade students: Tues., Mar. 12, 7 p.m., Woodlawn Middle School gym, 6362 Gilmer Rd, Long Grove 60047.

            Forms & Information
            Click here for access to  archived forms, student opportunities, and information.

            Calendar Highlights for Next Week
            This is a brief look at what's ahead. Please be sure to follow D96 ENews and our Kildeer PTO Newsletter.
            • Friday, March 8 ~ PTO Family Skate @ 6:00-8:00 p.m.
            • Sunday, March 10 ~ Daylight Savings Time Begins - Spring Ahead 1 hr.
            • Monday, March 11 ~ ISAT Testing continues
            • Wednesday, March 13 ~ Progress Reports Issued
            • Wednesday, March 13 ~ Variety Show Walk-thru @ 3:00-5:00 p.m.
            • Thursday, March 14 ~ Boys Night Out - 5th grade boys
            • Friday, March 15 ~ PTO Special Lunch - McDonalds
            • Friday, March 15 ~ Foundation Dinner @ 6:00p.m. Arboretum Club
            • Friday, March 15 ~ Variety Show Walk-thru @ 3:00-5:00 p.m.
              PTO Highlight of the Week


              Great Skate TONIGHT at 7pm at Glacier Ice Arena!   Please come and support your PTO at this fun family event. 
              5th Grade Boys Night out on March 14th!   5th Grade Girls Night Out on March 21st!
              Don’t forget to order your School Supply Kits for next year.  Orders are due March 15th.

              Thanks to our PTO for all of your support!
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