Principal's Message - Welcome to Park Orchard!
Park Orchard Grizzlies!
It's here! The 2023-2024 school year! I would like to welcome all of our Grizzlies back to school! I am looking forward to this year and the things I know we will accomplish together. This year, we are thrilled to carry forward our "KIND is Cool" theme, building upon the foundation of kindness we established in previous years. Throughout the year, we will focus on the power of kindness in our daily interactions, fostering empathy, respect, and understanding among our Grizzly community. Kindness is not just a word; it's a way of life. It's about showing compassion, lending a helping hand, and embracing the uniqueness of every individual. Together, we will engage in activities, discussions, and initiatives that reinforce the value of kindness and its impact on our school and beyond.
I am honored and humbled to begin my 6th year leading Park Orchard Elementary as your Principal. The opportunity to work alongside such amazing students, dedicated teachers and staff, and supportive families is a true blessing. Together, we make our school a vibrant and nurturing environment where every child can thrive. It is my belief that the elementary school years are important and critical times for all children. What happens during these years will have lasting impressions on their growth and development. I am energized and deeply committed to making a positive difference in the lives of your children. Thank you for entrusting your children to us. I look forward to continuing our work together as we strive to support OUR students in accomplishing their goals!
Here is some important information for you as you make plans for your family.
Office Hours: Beginning on August 21st, our school office will be open 9 am-3 pm.
Class Lists: Due to FERPA Laws, we will no longer post class lists on our office windows. Your child's teacher will contact you by 5pm on Friday, August 25th.
Open House: Monday, August 28th from 6-7 pm.
First Day of School: 1st - 5th-grade students will begin school on Wednesday, August 30th at 9:00 am.
Kindergarten Students: Kindergarten Teachers will conference with parents August 30th, August 31st and September 1st. The following week will be a slow start for Kindergarten students - half of the classes will attend school on either September 5th or 6th. Your child's teacher will communicate which day will be your child's slow start day. ALL Kindergarten students will begin attending school full time on Thursday, September 7th.
School Hours: Mondays (late start) school hours are 10:15am-3:30pm. Tuesday-Friday school hours are 9:00am-3:30pm.
School Supply Lists: The lists are available here as pdf documents- OR - you can access them here for easy online shopping. We have also posted the ALL School List on our Park Orchard Elementary Facebook Page.
Stay Connected: Please like us on Facebook @parkorchard and/or join us on Remind for regular updates by following the directions on this link: ParkOrchard_Remind
To all my fellow GRIZZLIES - together, let's make the 2023/2024 school year an exceptional journey filled with growth, kindness, and unforgettable moments. I look forward to witnessing your achievements and successes as you flourish academically, socially, and emotionally. Enjoy the rest of your summer! We will see you soon!
Mrs. Ward
Principal
