September 29, 2024

Thank you to all of our families who came out to our "Meeting with the STARS" event!  

Mobile Dentist

We have added additional dates for our Smile Mobile Dentist visits! In addition to the previously scheduled dates (November 18-22), the dentist will also be on campus seeing eligible students on the following dates:

• Monday, September 30
• Thursday, October 3

If you are interested in registering your student to see the dentist at school, you may sign up at https://www.myschooldentist.com/SRDPNC_schsrm

You will need to provide proof of Medicaid/NC Health Choice for Children or other dental insurance, pay a reduced fee for the visit, or request donated care.

If your child sees a dentist regularly, and you want to continue care with that dentist, please do so. Contact Carolyn Allen carolyn_allen@dpsnc.net (919) 560-2695 ext 69057 with any questions!

School Custodian Recognition Day

Wednesday, October 2, is school custodian recognition day. We would like to say thank you to all of our school custodians for everything that they do to support our school. They are greatly appreciated!

Picture Day

Say, "cheese!" Photographers from Strawbridge Studios will be on site on Friday, October 4, to take fall photos. These are the photos that will be included in the yearbook, and students are only photographed from the shoulders up. For the best price, you'll need to prepay for fall photos, though you can wait and order online once pictures come back for a slightly higher price. Go to www.strawbridge.net and enter online code FM456558 to prepay for fall photos. Makeup picture day will be Wednesday, December 11 (NEW DATE), for those who miss picture day on October 4, and for those who would like retakes. All students will have the opportunity to be included in the yearbook, even if they miss both picture days.

Club Meetings

Tuesday, October 1

• Basketball 2:15-3:30

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September 22, 2024

Teacher Workday

This is a friendly reminder that tomorrow Monday, September 23, is a Teacher Workday.

Progress Reports

Quarter 1 progress reports will be distributed on Wednesday, September 25. 

Meeting with the STARS

You are cordially invited to attend our Title I event titled “Meeting with the STARS.” This event will be held on Thursday, September 26, at 5:00pm. This will be an opportunity to meet with administration to learn more about how we utilize Title I to support student achievement. You will also meet with your child’s teacher to discuss curriculum, data protocols, and classroom updates. Please see the schedule included:

5:00-5:30 Meet with Administration (Location: Gym)

5:30-6:30 Meet with the Teacher (Location: Classroom)

Sponsorship Letter

Last week we shared a sponsorship letter with all families. We would like to request your support with helping SRE raise funds for our school. If possible, we like to kindly ask that you share this letter with a local business, community organization, church, etc. There has been a decrease in our school funding and we are working to sustain our programs to ensure academic success. Any amount or donation is greatly appreciated. Thank you for your continuous support!  

Club Meetings

Tuesday, September 24

• Basketball 2:15-3:30

Wednesday, September 25

• FEMMES+ 2:15-3:15

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September 15, 2024

I’m pleased to announce that during the 23-24 school year Sandy Ridge met academic growth and improved our overall grade level proficiency composite to 64.5 percent and school performance score to 68 percent. We maintained a school letter grade of a C. I'm extremely proud of our teachers, staff and students!  

Hispanic Heritage Month

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, each morning we will learn about a different person of Hispanic descent who has made significant contributions to the world around them. Students will participate in weekly Hispanic Heritage Trivia from September 16-October 15. 

Additionally, we would like to invite you to our Hispanic Heritage Celebration of Culture Festival on Tuesday, October 15, from 5:00pm-6:30pm. This celebration of culture will highlight Hispanic fashion, food, and music.  This event is open to all Sandy Ridge families.  Additional details will follow. 

Dot Day

Dot day will be held on Monday, September 16.  All STARS are encouraged to wear polka dots. 

SIT Meeting

This is a friendly reminder that our School Improvement Team will meet on Wednesday, September 18, at 2:50. We are looking forward to meeting with our team and selected parent representative. 

PTA Meeting & Membership

Please join us on Zoom for our first Sandy Ridge PTA General Body Meeting of the year on Thursday, September 19, from 7:00pm-8:00pm!  Please see login information included below:

Join Zoom Meeting

Meeting ID:415 731 7298

Passcode: PTARocks

Our PTA Membership is $10

Use this link to join the PTA

Givebacks

Practice Lockdown Drill

I would like to inform you that Sandy Ridge will conduct a practice lockdown drill this week. DPS schools are required to have at least two lockdown drills each school year. The purpose of these drills are to help students understand what to do in the event a lockdown is ever needed on our campus.   

Panorama Survey

I would like to remind you about the upcoming SEL survey for all students, which gives them a chance to tell us how well they understand their social and emotional skills. The survey focuses on social-emotional learning because building social-emotional learning skills is an important goal for our schools. Over the next several weeks, students and teachers will participate in several exercises to better understand these concepts. For several years, we have administered this survey designed to give students a chance to reflect on these skills.

The survey will be administered at Sandy Ridge between Tuesday, September 24, and Monday, Wednesday, October 16, 2024. To access a sample of the Panorama SEL Survey, K-2 click here, 3-5 click here.

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September 1, 2024

We hope that your first week of school has been successful and productive as ours has been in the school building. We appreciate the efforts of our families, students, and staff. Thank you for your patience with our carpool line. 

Holiday

Please be reminded that there is no school on Monday, September 2.  We hope you enjoy your Labor Day. 

mClass Testing

The mClass beginning of the year testing window is approaching and testing will begin on Tuesday, September 3. mClass is a universal screener that measures the development of reading skills of all students in K-5. 

iReady

The iReady beginning of the year testing window will also open this week. Students will be given the assessment over the course of the next three weeks. iReady is a web-based adaptive diagnostic assessment and instruction program. It assesses students’ reading and math skills. The diagnostic assessment identifies which students are experiencing difficulties with specific skills, providing real-time, actionable data and reports to guide teachers in effective intervention. In addition, i-Ready provides intuitive resources for targeted instructional support. 

Carpool Reminders

1. Ensure that your car tag is hanging and visible to staff daily.
2. Please remain in the same lane and do not switch lanes.
3. Please remain in your car during carpool and retrieve your child from the loading zone.
4. Please refrain from parking in the front of the school at the end of the school day.
5. If you arrive early, before 7:15, please stop and wait behind the stop sign.
6. Once your child’s name has been called, we would like to request that you pull up to the color coded loading zone to retrieve your child. 
7. Please take an active role in assisting us with protecting instructional time in the afternoons by allowing students to complete a full school day. Students who are checked out early in the afternoons miss imperative instruction and are at risk of truancy related matters. Transportation changes should not be made after 11:00 and students may not be signed out after 1:45.
8. If your child walks home from school, please contact your child’s teacher and they will be given a walker tag. All walkers will be dismissed with bus riders and walk home from the back parking lot.  No cars are permitted in the bus lot during afternoon dismissal.
9. Please be prepared to experience longer wait times in the event of inclement weather and early release days.

Thank you for following our carpool guidelines and ensuring safety for our students, staff and families.

Bus Reminders

As a reminder, Bus 118 has a double load. The second load is scheduled to leave campus between 2:55pm-3:05pm.

 

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August 25, 2024

We are so excited to begin the 2024-25 school year!  It was so great to see so many families during Open House last week.  We are looking forward to this being a great school year!  During Open House, we distributed fewer carpool tags than we have in the past. This may be attributed to becoming a neighborhood school.  However, if you were unable to get a carpool tag and your child is an afternoon car rider, we will ensure that you receive a carpool tag this week. 

All families are welcome to walk their students to their classrooms on the first day of school. Kindergarten families are welcome to walk students to their classrooms the entire first week of school. As a reminder, kindergarten students will stagger in this week. To adhere to safety protocols and protect instructional time, families are not permitted to walk students into the building during the school year. I would like to request that all families remain in the car during am/pm carpool. This will also improve traffic flow. Old Oxford Rd is usually a very busy highway in the morning, so you are encouraged to consider making a right turn out of the school parking lot in the morning to reduce your wait time. Traffic flow is important, and we would like to encourage you to pull up to the curb and line your cars up accordingly. Once your car comes to a complete stop, students will unload from the passenger side of the vehicle.  We would like to discourage students from exiting the driver’s side of the car because this presents safety issues.  In the event that this does occur, your child will be escorted around the car by an SRE staff member.  

Special accommodations have been made for Pre-K student drop off and pick-up. All Pre-K families are welcome to park in the staff parking lot and walk your children up to the media center each morning. Pre-K student pick-up will be located in the same location. Only Pre-K students and siblings can be picked up and dropped off at the media center. We are working diligently to ensure that every aspect of Sandy Ridge is exceptional, so I would like to request your assistance with this matter.  All students will be grouped outside according to grade level in the front of the school in a designated area.  Please hang your carpool tags and have them visible during pm carpool.    

Morning carpool drop-off is from 7:15-7:40.  This will give students time to get breakfast and report to class on time.  Breakfast and lunch are free for all students this school year.  Instruction will begin promptly at 7:45. Students who arrive after 7:45 are considered tardy. If you arrive after 7:45 you will need to park your car and walk your child to the front entrance and sign them in.  

Lastly, in the afternoon, we will also have a designated staff member call student names to make students aware that their grown-ups have arrived. Again, it is important to have your carpool tag visible to staff daily. Once the name has been called, the student will stand in the color-coded loading zones. 

Please see ways you can assist: 

1. Ensure that your car tag is hanging and visible to staff.  
2. Please remain in your car during carpool and retrieve your child from the loading zone.
3. Please refrain from parking in the front of the school at the end of the school day.
4. If you arrive early, before 7:15, please stop and wait behind the stop sign.
5. Once your child’s name has been called, we would like to request that you pull up to the color coded loading zone to retrieve your child. 
6. Please remain in the carpool lane and follow traffic.  (There will be someone directing traffic)
7. Please take an active role in assisting us with protecting instructional time in the afternoons by allowing students to complete a full school day.  Students who are checked out early in the afternoons miss imperative instruction and are at risk of truancy related matters. Transportation changes should not be made after 1:15 and students may not be signed out after 1:45.
8. If your child walks home from school, please contact your child’s teacher and they will be given a walker tag.  All walkers will be dismissed with bus riders and walk home from the back parking lot.  No cars are permitted in the bus lot during afternoon dismissal.
9. Please be prepared to experience longer wait times in the event of inclement weather and early release days.

Ultimately, our goal is to conduct a safe dismissal plan that will be time-efficient and effective. We appreciate your assistance with the implementation of this plan. Thank you for the shared commitment to the safety of Sandy Ridge students. 

Respectfully,

Dr. Hinton

Principal 

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June 2, 2024

I would like to say congratulations to Ms. Pruett for receiving the EC Excellence Award! I would also like to say congratulations to Ms. Kimberly Watson for receiving Cafeteria Staff of the Year! They have done an exceptional job this school year and we are so proud of them!

3^rd Grade Read to Achieve 

Some 3^rd graders will take the RtA assessment tomorrow, June 3. Please ensure that students are present, arrive at school on time, and get plenty of rest. Testing will begin at 8:00am, so it is important that students arrive to school early, if they intend to eat breakfast at school. 

Please see important dates listed below:

Pruett’s Pre-K Moving Up Ceremony June 5 12:30 in Classroom

Gregory's Pre-K Moving Up Ceremony June 5 12:30 in Classroom

Stinnett’s Pre-K Moving up Ceremony June 5 1:00 in Media Center

Legacy Class Graduation Walk June 6 9:00-10:00

Kindergarten Moving Up Ceremonies June 6 10:00-1:00

5th Grade Moving Up Ceremony June 6 5:00-6:00

Last Day of School June 7 (Early Dismissal 12:15)

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May 19, 2024

On Friday, our students will begin End of Grade testing. Let’s work together and make your child’s experience a positive and successful one. We’ve been preparing at school with daily instruction, small group intervention, and EOG principal data talks. 

Here are some suggestions you can do to help:

• Please ensure your child arrives on time daily
• Please refrain from picking your child up early
• Have your child eat a healthy breakfast at home or at school
• Ensure your child gets a good night rest
• Gently encourage them to do their best

Please see the testing schedule below:

Friday, May 24:  3^rd ELA & 5^th Science 

Wednesday, May 29:  4^th & 5^th ELA

Thursday, May 30:  3^rd Math

Friday, May 31:  4^th & 5^th Math

Monday, June 3:  Makeups

EOG PEP Rally

We would like to continue to encourage our STARS to do well on their EOGs. Therefore, we will be hosting our EOG Pep Rally on Thursday, May 23, at 10:00am. We are excited that we will have K97.5 on campus to help us build excitement. During this time, we will recognize our end of year K-5 Hall of Fame students from each grade level. In addition, there will be a special performance from our dancers, drumline, and selected talent show students. 

Student Staff Basketball Game

Our student staff game will be held on Thursday, May 23, at 1:15pm. If the weather permits, it will be held outside. 

Mental Health Awareness Month

In celebration of Mental Health Awareness Monday, students should wear their favorite sports team shirt or favorite exercise gear on Monday, May 20. Being active helps our minds and bodies stay healthy! 

Please see club meeting dates included below:

Club Meetings

Monday, May 20

• Rainbow Club 2:15-3:15 

Wednesday, May 22

• Outdoor Club 2:30-4:00

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May 12, 2024

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!!

I would like to say thank you to everyone who showed love to our Sandy Ridge staff during Teacher Appreciation Week. You are greatly appreciated!

Kindergarten Performance

You are cordially invited to attend our Kindergarten performance on Thursday, May 16, at 5:30pm. All students should report to their homeroom class at 5:00pm. 

Star Study Tutoring

This is a friendly reminder that Thursday, May 16, is the final day of tutoring. 

Please see club meeting dates included below:

Club Meetings

Tuesday, May 14

• 3-5 Star Study Tutoring 2:15-4:00

Wednesday, May 15

• Outdoor Club 2:30-4:00

Thursday, May 16

• 3-5 Star Study Tutoring 2:15-4:00 (Last Day)

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May 5, 2024

We would like to send Ms. Knight and the field day committee a huge shout out for doing such a wonderful job with field day! We would also like to say thank you to PTA and any volunteers who worked diligently to make sure field day was a huge success as well. You are greatly appreciated. 

Techer Appreciation Week

This is a friendly reminder that Teacher Appreciation Week begins tomorrow. 

We hit the JACKPOT with our SRE teachers!

These are some ways that you can help show our teachers appreciation:

Monday: Write your teacher a thank you note.

Tuesday: Treat your teachers like kings and queens by bringing them a health and beauty gift. 

Wednesday: Donate a bingo door prize. Sign up at https://bit.ly/2024SRETAW

Thursday: Write a thank you note to a different teacher (Specials, IA’s, Counselors, ESL, Office Staff, AIG, or EC)

Friday: Bring your teacher a fun snack. 

Let’s show our teachers lots of love this week!                                                                                     

Mental Health Awareness Month

We are excited to celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month at Sandy Ridge. To celebrate the importance of mental health and well-being we have some fun activities for every Monday in May.  Tomorrow students are encouraged to wear GREEN on Monday May 6, 2024, to show their support for Mental Health Awareness month. 

EOG Pep Rally Auditions

All 3^rd-5^th grade students are encouraged to audition with a talent show act for our EOG Pep Rally.  Students can audition as a solo act or with a group. Please sign up on the sheet outside the dance room or speak with Ms. Gilreath. Auditions will be held on tomorrow May 6. 

Book Fair

The book fair will begin this week and classes schedule to shop Monday- Thursday.  Families are welcome to come shop after hours on Wednesday, May 8, from 4:00-6:00pm.   Also students will have the opportunity to participate in open shopping on Friday, May 10.

Progress Reports

Quarter 4 progress reports will be distributed on Tuesday, May 7.

Early Release

This is a friendly reminder that Friday, May 10, is an Early Release day and students will be dismissed at 12:15pm. All transportation changes should be made by 9:00am. Students should not be signed out after 11:45am. Afterschool students will be dismissed at the regular time. Thank you for helping us ensure a smooth dismissal process. 

Please see club meeting dates included below:

Club Meetings

Monday, May 6

• Rainbow Club 2:15-3:15

Tuesday, May 7

• 3-5 Star Study Tutoring 2:30-4:00

Thursday, May 9

• 3-5 Star Study Tutoring 2:30-4:00

 

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April 28, 2024

We would like to say congratulations to Mrs. Laws for being named the 2023-2024 DPS School Counselor of the Year!!! We are so proud of her!

Middle School Registration  

This is a friendly reminder that middle school registration will be held this week for the following Middle Schools:

Lowes Grove Middle School: Monday, April 29                                                               

Lucas Middle School:  Tuesday, April 30                                                                                               

Field Day

Filed Day will be held on Friday, May 3, from 8:00-2:00. We are requesting that all volunteers arrive between 7:45-8:15 to assist with setting up. All volunteers should sign is and meet in the gym. Lunch will be served outside. PTA will provide ICEEs for all students, staff and volunteers. PTA will also provide lunch for all staff and volunteers. 

Students are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing, sneakers and bring water bottles. Also, students should wear their assigned grade level t-shirt colors. The colors are as follows:

Pre-K:  Red

K:  Blue

1^st:  Red

2^nd:  Green  

3^rd:  Yellow

4^th:  Blue

5^th:  Black

We would like to say thank you in advance to our PTA and field day volunteers. 

EOG Pep Rally Auditions

All 3^rd-5^th grade students are encouraged to audition with a talent show act for our EOG Pep Rally.  Students can audition as a solo act or with a group. Please sign up on the sheet outside the dance room or speak with Ms. Gilreath. Auditions will be held on Monday, May 6. 

Upcoming Field Trips

Kindergarten: Monday, May 1 - Museum of Life & Science

5th Grade: Thursday, May 2 - Palace Pointe                                       

Please see club meeting dates included below:

Club Meetings 

Monday, April 29

• Volleyball 2:15-3:50

Tuesday, April 30

• 3-5 STAR Study Tutoring 2:30-4:00

Wednesday, May 1

• 3-5 STAR Study Tutoring 2:30-4:00

Thursday, May 2

• 3-5 STAR Study Tutoring 2:30-4:00

 

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April 21, 2024

3-5 EOY Predictive Assessments

Our 3^rd- 5^th graders will continue end of the year benchmark assessments this week. Please ensure that students are present, arrive at school on time, and get plenty of rest. Testing will begin daily at 8:00am, so it is important that students arrive at school early if they intend to eat breakfast at school. Please see the testing schedule included below:

Monday, April 22 - 3^rd Grade Math

Tuesday, April 23 - 5^th Grade Science

Wednesday, April 24 - Make-Ups

Thursday, April 25 - Make-Ups

Middle School Registration

This is a friendly reminder that middle school registration will take place this week for the following middle schools:

• Brogden Middle School:  Monday, April 22
• Githens Middle School:  Tuesday, April 23
• Neal Middle School:  Wednesday, April 24
• Carrington Middle School:  Thursday, April 25                  

Duke Energy Science Night

You are cordially invited to our Duke Energy Science Night on Thursday, April 25, from 5:00-7:00.  Science activities will be available for students. Northern High School culinary students will provide food as well. We are looking forward to seeing you. 

Early Release

This is a friendly reminder that Friday, April 26, is an Early Release day, and students will be dismissed at 12:15pm. All transportation changes must be made by 9:00am. Students may not be signed out after 11:45am. Afterschool students will be dismissed at the regular time.

Wellness Day

DPS staff and students will participate in Wellness Day on Friday, April 26. We are asking all students to dress like a Sandy Ridge Star! Students will learn about being generous and what you can do for someone that does not cost money.

Upcoming Field Trips

First Grade: Monday, April 22 Piedmont Wildlife

Second Grade:  Tuesday, April 23 Museum of Life and Science                                        

Please see club meeting dates included below:

Club Meetings

Monday, April 22

• Rainbow Club 2:15-3:15
• Star Ambassadors 2:30-4:00 (Final Meeting)

Tuesday, April 23

• 3-5 Star Study Tutoring 2:30-4:00
• Outdoor Club 2:30-4:00

Wednesday, April 24

• Volleyball 2:15-3:50 

Thursday, April 25

• 3-5 Star Study Tutoring 2:30-4:00 Canceled

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April 14, 2024

Star Study Tutoring

This is a friendly reminder that there will be No Star Study Tutoring this week. 

3-5 EOY Predictive Assessments

Our 3^rd- 5^th graders will begin end of the year benchmark assessments this week. Please ensure that students are present, arrive to school on time, and get plenty of rest. Testing will begin daily at 8:00am, so it is important that students arrive to school early if they intend to eat breakfast at school. Please see the testing schedule including below:

Wednesday, April 17 - 3^rd ELA

Thursday, April 18 - 4^th & 5^th Grade ELA

Friday, April 19 - 4^th & 5^th Grade Math

Monday, April 22 - 3^rd Grade Math

Tuesday, April 23 - 5^th Grade Science

Wednesday, April 24 - Make Ups

Thursday, April 25 - Make Ups

 

Please see club meeting dates included below:

Club Meetings

Monday, April 15

• Rainbow Club 2:15-3:15
• Drumline 2:15-4:00

Tuesday, April 16

• No Star Study Tutoring

Thursday, April 18

• No Star Study Tutoring

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April 7, 2024

Solar Eclipse

On Monday, April 8, there will be a solar eclipse that will take place near the end of the school day.  Please know that we will have no students participate in recess after 1:45pm. We hope to expedite dismissal as quickly and safely as possible. It will be necessary for students to be reminded not to look directly at the sun during the eclipse time. Thank you for supporting us with reminding students of this expectation as well. 

National Library Week

This week is National Library Week. We would like to take this time to celebrate Ms. Dunn, our school librarian! She has done a wonderful job with supporting our students with gaining a love for reading and learning. This year she played a key role in providing remediation to our students, compiling facts for history trivia, leading Battle of the Books, and much more. She is greatly appreciated and this week we will celebrate her. 

Report Cards

Report Cards will be distributed on Monday, April 8. 

Teacher Workday

I would like to remind you that Wednesday, April 10, is a Teacher Workday. 

First Grade Performance

We are so excited to invite you to our Oceans of Fun first grade performance, which will be held at on Thursday, April 11, at 5:30pm. Students should arrive to the school at 5:00 and report to their homeroom classroom to prepare for the show. Students should wear blue jeans and dark pants.   

Upcoming Field Trips

Monday, April 8 Kindergarten: Schoolhouse of Wonder

Friday, April 12 4^th Grade: Outer Banks

Please see club meeting dates included below:

Club Meetings

Monday, April 8

• Drumline 2:15-4:00
• Star Ambassadors 2:30-3:30 Cancelled

Tuesday, April 9

• 3-5 Star Study Tutoring 2:15-4:00

Thursday, April 11

• 3-5 Star Study Tutoring 2:15-4:00

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March 31, 2024 

I would like to remind you that tomorrow, April 1, is a Teacher Workday. Students will return to school on Tuesday, April 2. 

Thank you to all our families who participated in the Apex FUN RUN Fundraiser. With your support, we raised a total of $10,545 for our school. You are greatly appreciated!

Report cards will be distributed on Monday, April 8. 

Please see club meeting dates included below:

Club Meetings

Tuesday, April 2

• 3-5 Star Study Tutoring 2:15-4:00

Wednesday, April 3 

• FEMMES+ (Final Session) 2:15-3:15
• Volleyball 2:15-3:50
• Outdoor Club 2:30-4:00 

Thursday, April 4

• 3-5 Star Study Tutoring 2:15-4:00

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March 17, 2024

Unpaid Meal Balances

Recently, we have had an increase in unpaid lunch balances. Letters will be sent home to families this week for all students who have an outstanding lunch balance. Please see information included about how you can pay for meals. 

Paying For Meals

Students who receive reduced-price lunch or who buy their lunch can pay for meals using the online meal payment portal: http://www.k12paymentcenter.com/  You will need to know your child’s student ID number, also known as the PowerSchool ID, to set up your account. (If your child receives free lunch, you do not need to pay for lunch.)

The online payment portal allows you to:

• Pre-pay for meals or pay as you go
• View your child’s purchases (meal history)
• View your balance
• Set up automatic payments
• Receive alerts when your pre-paid balance is low or you have past-due payments
• Go to “Manage Profile”

• Click “Send Low Balance Notification” 

Student Attendance

Student attendance is vital to the academic success of our students. This is a friendly reminder that students should not be checked out of school the last 30 minutes of the school day. Truancy has become a concern at Sandy Ridge because we have several students who have missed multiple days of school.  Letters will be sent home this week if your child has multiple unexcused absences. Please submit notes that you have that will potentially excuse any absences that your child may have obtained this school year. Thank you for your support with this. 

POP Celebration

We are looking forward to celebrating our STARs academic growth, positive behavior, and attendance on Friday, March 22, during our People on Point celebration. Students who have exhibited good behavior during the third quarter will attend the MVP Clubs on Friday afternoon. Families are welcome to attend the POP Awards celebration. The celebration schedule is as follows:

K-2 Awards: 8:05-9:35

3-5 Awards: 9:45-11:05

Mobile Dentist

Smile NC Mobile Dentist will be at Sandy Ridge March 18-22, 2024. 

Spring Break

Spring Break will be Monday, March 25-Friday, March 29.  Students will return to school on Tuesday, April 2.

Apex Fun Run

This week we have the Apex team at school teaching the students leadership lessons like being proactive to get things done, finding healthy ways to resolve conflict and work it out, and pausing for a reality check to stay true to who they are. Ask your child what leadership lesson they learned today! The Apex team is putting on a huge event on March 21, to celebrate everything they learn and the money we raise!

Students are aiming to get pledges from 10 sponsors to help raise money for the school, and they are earning thank you gifts for their pledges. On average students complete between minimum 26 and maximum 36 laps with 36 being the most they can get credit for. So if a pledge is made for $1 per lap the donation should be around 30 dollars. To donate, please check out your student’s “Apex VIP Badge” that was sent home earlier this week. All instructions are inside. Just go to www.myapexevent.com and use your student’s special “access code” printed on their VIP Badge to log in and enter your pledges. If you cannot find your code, just email info@apexleadershipco.com. This helps the school and helps us keep track of pledges. Thanks so much and have a wonderful day.

The Fun Run Schedule included below:

Thursday, March 21

PK/K/1: 9:00-9:50

2/3: 10:00-10:50

4/5: 11:00-11:50

 

Club Meetings

Monday, March 18

• Basketball Skills 2:15-3:30
• Rainbow Club 2:15-3:15
• STAR Ambassadors 2:30-3:30

Tuesday, March 19

• STAR Study Tutoring 2:15-4:00

Wednesday, March 20

• FEMMES 2:15-3:15

Thursday, March 21

• 3-5 Star Study Tutoring 2:15-4:00

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March 10, 2024

I would like to remind you of what is happening at Sandy Ridge this week.  We are looking forward to having the Apex team at school teaching the students leadership lessons that will charge our POWERS and master five habits that will unleash the power of leadership! Tomorrow we will have our kick-off pep rally, so look for your child to come home excited with an “Apex VIP Badge” (pledging information).  This year we are raising funds for Community Engagement, Teacher Appreciation and Support, Student Celebrations, Continued Advocacy to SRES Families and so much more!

Here’s how you can help:

• Help your child ask 10 people for a pledge for the Apex event at our school.
• Create a video of your child asking for pledges and email it to everyone you know or post it to your social media if you choose.
• Ask your child about the Apex Power Lessons they are learning in class. They will come home with a habit bracelet each day as a reminder.
• Come to the Fun Run on March 21^st and cheer on your kiddos.

Club/Tutoring Dates

Monday, March 11

• Basketball Skills 2:15-3:30
• Rainbow Club 2:15-3:15
• Drumline 2:15-4:00

Tuesday, March 12

• 3-5 Star Study Tutoring 2:15-4:00

Wednesday, March 13

• Outdoor Club 2:30-4:00

Thursday, March 14

• 3-5 Star Study Tutoring 2:15-4:00

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March 3, 2024

Women’s History Month

I’m excited to announce that Sandy Ridge students and staff will celebrate Women’s History during the month of March by highlighting female inventors daily along with a read aloud and weekly trivia.

Read Across America Week

In our efforts to encourage, motivate, and inspire students to read, we will celebrate Read Across America Week Monday, March 4-Thursday, March 7. Read Across America Spirit Week activities are included below:

• Monday, March 4- Fox in Socks Day (Wear your silliest socks to celebrate Dr. Seuss’s book Fox in Socks!)
• Tuesday, March 5- Where the Wild Things Are Day (Wear animal print to celebrate Maurice Sendak’s book Where the Wild Things Are!)
• Wednesday, March 6- The Day the Crayons Quit Day (Wear the color assigned to your grade level to celebrate Drew Daywalt’s book!)
  • Kindergarten- Yellow
  • 1^st Grade-Green
  • 2^nd Grade-Orange
  • 3^rd Grade-Purple
  • 4^th Grade-Pink
  • 5^th Grade-Tie-Dye/Rainbow
• Thursday, March 7- Hair Love Day (Style your hair in the coolest way you can think of to celebrate Matthew A. Cherry’s book Hair Love!)
• Friday, March 8- REVISION (Pajama Day will be postponed due to Battle of the Blues)

Spring Pictures

This is a friendly reminder that spring pictures will be taken on Tuesday, March 5.

Battle of the Book Competition

We would like to wish our Sandy Ridge Stars the best of luck as they compete in BOB competition on Wednesday!!!

Battle of the BLUES

We will celebrate Battle of the Blues on Friday March 8, with school wide activities. All students and staff are encouraged to wear their Duke or Carolina gear!!

Early Release

This is a friendly reminder that Friday, March 8, is an Early Release day and students will be dismissed at 12:15pm. All transportation changes must be made by 9:00am.  Students may not be signed out after 11:45am. After-school students will be dismissed at the regular time. Thank you for helping us ensure a smooth dismissal process. Please see club meeting dates included below:    

Club/Tutoring Dates

Monday, March 4

• Basketball Skills 2:15-3:30
• BOB 2:30-3:30
• STAR Ambassadors 2:30-3:30

Tuesday, March 5

• 3-5 Star Study Tutoring 2:15-4:00
• BOB 2:30-3:30

Wednesday, March 6

• BOB Competition
• 2:30-4:00 Outdoor Club

Thursday, March 7  

• 3-5 Star Study Tutoring 2:15-4:00

---

February 25, 2024

Club/Tutoring Dates

Monday, February 26

• Basketball Skills 2:15-3:30
• BOB 2:30-3:30
• STAR Ambassadors 2:30-3:30

Tuesday, February 27

• 3-5 Star Study Tutoring 2:15-4:00
• BOB 2:30-3:30

Wednesday, February 28

• FEMMES+ 2:15-3:15

Thursday, February 29       

• 3-5 Star Study Tutoring 2:15-4:00
• BOB 2:30-3:30

---

February 18, 2024 

Teacher Workday

This is a friendly reminder that tomorrow, Monday, February 19, is a Teacher Workday. 

Progress Reports

Quarter 3 progress reports will be distributed on Tuesday, February 20. 

Battle of the Books

All Battle of the Books practices for the remainder of the season are for competition team members and alternates only. 

Practice Lockdown Drill

I would like to inform you that Sandy Ridge will conduct a practice lockdown drill this week. DPS schools are required to have at least two lockdown drills each school year. The purpose of these drills are to help students understand what to do in the event a lockdown is ever needed on our campus.   

Club Meetings

Tuesday, February 20

• 3-5 Star Study Tutoring 2:15-4:00
• BOB 2:30-3:30

Thursday, February 22       

• 3-5 Star Study Tutoring 2:15-4:00

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February 11, 2024

No School Tomorrow

As a reminder, there will be no school for students Monday, February 12, due to absences within our transportation department that will prevent us from operating buses tomorrow.  

100^th Day of School

I’m excited to announce that Tuesday, February 13, is the 100^th day of school!   

Class Photos

Class photos will be taken on Thursday, February 15. 

Early Release

This is a friendly reminder that Friday, February 16, is an early release day and students will be dismissed at 12:15pm. All transportation changes must be made by 9:00am. Students may not be signed out after 11:45am. After-school students will be dismissed at the regular time. Thank you for helping us ensure a smooth dismissal process.

Upcoming Dates to Remember

Monday, February 19:  Teacher Workday

Tuesday, February 20:  Quarter 3 Progress Reports

 

Club/Tutoring Dates

Tuesday, February 13

• Step Club 2:15-4:00
• STAR Study Tutoring 2:30-4:00

Wednesday, February 14

• Rainbow Club 2:15-3:15
• Outdoor Club 2:30-4:00

Thursday, February 15       

• BOB 2:30-3:30
• STAR Study Tutoring 2:30-4:00

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January 28, 2024

FEMMES+ starts this week! It's not too late to sign up! Be sure to let your child's teacher know if you sign them up now.

FEMMES+ After School Program Registration
Sandy Ridge Elementary School
WEDNESDAYS 2:15-3:15PM
PROGRAM DATES:
1/31, 2/7, 2/28, 3/20, 4/3
**NO CLASS on 2/14, 2/21, 3/6, 3/13**

Females and Allies Excelling More in Math, Engineering, and Science (FEMMES+) is an educational outreach program for students in 4th-6th grade. The program aims to empower females and other underrepresented individuals in the STEM fields. The goal of FEMMES+ is to give all students regardless of their race, gender, ethnic background, etc. an engaging experience in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields. By using a diverse body of Duke student volunteers, we hope to demonstrate that anyone can excel in these fields. Through hands-on engaging activities, students are able to learn in a supportive environment. We hope to build our participant’s confidence in their academic skills and to empower them to pursue their dreams.

In this 5-week after-school program, volunteers will work with a small group of students and guide them through hands-on activities and introduce them to both basic and advanced chemistry, biology, physics, engineering, and mathematics concepts. The programming will occur in-person at the school.

Questions? Contact femmesatduke@gmail.com or (417) 880-5562

Registration form in English: http://tinyurl.com/femmes-s24-signup
Registration form in Spanish: http://tinyurl.com/femmes-s24-signup-spanish

Motown Black History Performance and the Minority Business Expo

You are cordially invited to the Motown Black History Performance and Minority Business Expo on Thursday, February 1. The show will begin at 5:30 and all 4th & 5th grade students should arrive no later than 5:00. Costumes were due last Tuesday. If your child has not turned in their costume, please check ClassDojo for the description of the costume. Messages were shared by the enrichment team and costumes should be submitted as soon as possible. Every 4^th and 5^th grade student should turn in a costume. In addition, vendors will be on site at 4:45. 

Club Meetings

Wednesday, January 31                           

• FEMMES+ 2:15-3:15
• Outdoor Club 2:30-4:00

Thursday, February 1    

• BOB 2:30-3:30

 

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January 22, 2024

Important Dates to Remember

Tuesday, January 23

• PreK/K/5th Grade Dental Screening
• Q2 Report Cards Issued

Club Meetings

Monday, January 22

• 2:15-3:30 Basketball
• 2:15-3:45 Dance Club
• 2:30-3:30 STAR Ambassadors 

Wednesday, January 24

• 2:15-3:15 Rainbow Club

Thursday, January 25

• 2:30-3:30 BOB

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January 14, 2024

Teacher Workday

This is a friendly reminder that Monday, January 15, is Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday, and Tuesday, January 16 is a Teacher Workday. 

POP Celebration

We are looking forward to celebrating our STARS academic growth, positive behavior, and attendance on Friday, January 19, during our People on Point celebration. Students who have exhibited good behavior during the second quarter will attend the Sneaker Ball on Friday afternoon. Families are welcome to attend the POP Awards celebration. The celebration schedule is as follows:

K-2 Awards: 8:05-9:35

3-5 Awards: 9:45-11:05

Important Dates to Remember

January 23 Quarter 2 Report Cards   

Club Meetings

Thursday, January 18                  

• BOB 2:30-3:30
• ELL Tutoring 2:30-4:00

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January 7, 2024

mCLASS Testing

The mCLASS middle of the year testing window is approaching and testing will begin on Wednesday, January 10. As a reminder, mCLASS is a universal screener that measures the development of reading skills of all students in K-5. We are looking forward to seeing the growth that our students have made this year.

i-Ready

The i-Ready middle of the year testing window will also open this week. Students will be given the assessment within the next three weeks. i-Ready is a web-based adaptive diagnostic assessment and instruction program. It assesses students’ reading and math skills. The diagnostic assessment identifies which students are experiencing difficulties with specific skills, providing real-time, actionable data and reports to guide teachers in effective intervention. In addition, i-Ready provides intuitive resources for targeted instructional support. 

Important Dates to Remember

January 12 End of Quarter 2

January 15 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday

January 16 Teacher Workday

Club Meetings

Monday, January 8                      

• Dance Club 2:15-3:45

Tuesday, January 9                      

• ELL Tutoring 2:30-4:00

Thursday, January 11                  

• BOB 2:30-3:30
• ELL Tutoring 2:30-4:00

---

January 2, 2024 

I hope everyone had a wonderful winter break.  We are looking forward to our students returning to school tomorrow, January 3.   Please see club meeting dates included.    

Club Meetings

Thursday, January 4

• ELL Tutoring Canceled
• BOB Canceled

---

December 17, 2023

We would like to send a huge shout out to our dancers, drumline, 2^nd and 3^rd grade Sandy Ridge Stars!  They did an amazing job during the Shine Bright Night of Lights Extravaganza.  I would also like to say thank you to our PTA and volunteers who supported our event and worked diligently to help us raise funds for our school.  We appreciate all families who attended our event. 

Winter Break

Tuesday, December 19 will be the last day for students.  Winter Break will be Wednesday, December 20-Tuesday, January 2.  Students and staff will return to school on Wednesday, January 3.   

Club Meetings

Monday, December 18   

• Basketball Skills 2:15-3:15
• Dance Club 2:15-3:45 (Winter Break Party)
• Star Ambassadors 2:30-3:30 (Winter Break Party)

Tuesday, December 19    

• No ELL Tutoring 

---

December 10, 2023

Club Meetings  

Monday, December 11

• Basketball Skills 2:15-3:15 postponed to December 18
• Dance Club 2:15-3:45

Tuesday, December 12

• No Drumline
• No Step Practice
• No ELL Tutoring

Thursday, December 14

• No Drumline
• No ELL Tutoring
• BOB 2:30-3:30

 

 

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December 3, 2023

We would like to send a huge shout-out to our Sandy Ridge dancers and drumline, who performed in the Henderson parade yesterday. We would also like to thank Ms. Knight, Ms. Cooper, and Mr. Epps for doing such a wonderful job with working so diligently with our STARS! Next week our STARS will perform in the Durham parade.   

Rainbow Club

Sandy Ridge will begin an after-school Rainbow Club, which will focus on creating a safe, affirming space for LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse students in grades K-5, staff, families, and allies.

Discussion and activities will include and affirm the rich diversity in our school and Durham community, including race, culture, disability, and more.

Offered in partnership with Rainbow Collective for Change and with funding from the Whole Schools Fund Grant from DPS Foundation.

If you are interested in your child joining the club, please complete the enrollment form.  Separate forms are required for siblings. 

Carolyn Allen will serve as the club leader, and she will share a hard copy of the registration form on January 3, 2024.  If you have additional questions about the club, please feel free to contact her Carolyn_Allen@dpsnc.net.

Rainbow Club will meet in the Sandy Ridge Media Center from 2:15-3:15 on the following dates except where noted:

Wednesday, January 24 (meet in the art room)
Wednesday, February 14
Monday, March 11
Monday, March 18
Monday, April 15
Monday, April 22
Monday, May 6
Monday, May 20

Pickup will be in front of the school at 3:15.

3-5 MOY Predictive Assessments

3^rd-5^th Grade Students will begin their benchmark assessments this week. Please ensure students are present, arrive to school on time, and get plenty of rest. Testing will begin daily at 8:00am, so it is important that students arrive to school early if they intend to have breakfast at school. Please see the testing schedule below: 

Monday – 5^th Grade Science

Tuesday – 4^th and 5^th  ELA 

Wednesday – 4^th and 5^th Math

Thursday – 3^rd Grade ELA

Friday – 3^rd Grade Math

Monday, December 11th, and Tuesday, December 12th – Makeups                                                                          

Progress Reports

Quarter 2 progress reports will be distributed on Tuesday, December 5. 

Swim for Charlie

Ms. Lewis and Mrs. Williams’s class will participate in Swim for Charlie.

 

Club Meetings

Monday, December 4   

• Basketball Skills 2:15-3:15
• Dance Club 2:15-3:45
• STAR Ambassadors 2:30-3:30

Tuesday, December 5   

• Drumline 2:15-4:00
• ELL Tutoring 2:30-4:00

Thursday, December 7 

• Drumline 2:15-4:00
• BOB 2:30-3:30
• ELL Tutoring 2:30-4:00

---

November 26, 2023

Swim for Charlie

This is a friendly reminder that Mrs. Williams' and Ms. Lewis’ students will participate in Swim for Charlie this week.    

Picture Retakes

Any student who missed fall pictures will have an opportunity to take their photo on Thursday, November 30. 

PTA Meeting

You are encouraged to join our PTA Meeting Zoom Link for our Sandy Ridge PTA meeting on Thursday, November 30, at 7:30 pm.

Club Meetings

Monday, November 27              

• Basketball Skills 2:15-3:15
• Dance Club 2:15-3:45

Tuesday, November 28              

• Drumline 2:15-4:00
• ELL Tutoring 2:30-4:00

Thursday, November 30                           

• Drumline 2:15-4:00
• BOB 2:30-3:30
• ELL Tutoring 2:30-4:00

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November 19, 2023

Popcorn Fundraiser

Thank you to everyone who supported our popcorn fundraiser.  Your support is greatly appreciated!

Climate Survey

This is a friendly reminder about the upcoming survey that all fifth, seventh, and eleventh graders will be asked to take to tell us how they feel about attending Durham Public Schools. It's called a Climate Survey and we administer it every year. We want to know what makes them feel good or proud to be a DPS student, and if there are things we need to improve so that they can feel good about learning in DPS. We would appreciate your consent using the Google form that you should have received via email. It will be administered between Monday, November 20, and Tuesday, December 19.

NEW for 2023-24: Parental Opt-In Due to Parents’ Bill of Rights (opt-in form link)

Please call the school if you have questions or concerns so that we may answer them. Thank you for your consideration.

TSI-AT Notification

Sandy Ridge has been identified as a Targeted Support and Improvement-Additional Targeted Support (TSI-AT) school by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. More information about this status can be located by clicking on the link below:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1A6AMO12E8LAkEBsbqaB6pmmAdVpmb3Nc3jHRyDES8Dk/edit?usp=sharing

No School

This is a friendly reminder that Wednesday, November 22, – Friday, November 24, is Thanksgiving break. There will be no school for students. 

Club Meetings

Monday, November 20              

• Dance Club 2:30-3:45

 

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November 12, 2023

Popcorn Fundraiser

Did you miss out on ordering popcorn from the 4th Grade Fundraiser? Have you already eaten all of your popcorn and crave more? We have great news for you... here's another opportunity to support Sandy Ridge and get delicious popcorn for your family and friends. Popcorn makes a great gift for the holidays! Go to https://bit.ly/SREPOPS to place your order between Monday, November 13, and Friday, November 17. Please share with your family and friends! Thank you for your support!

Swim For Charlie

Swim for Charlie will continue this week for Mrs. Eley and Mrs. Granson’s classes.  

Showcase of Schools

Durham Public Schools is hosting its annual Showcase of Schools on Saturday, November 18, and it promises to be an inspiring and informative event.

The Showcase of Schools is a wonderful opportunity to witness the diverse educational programs and opportunities we offer to our students and their families. It is a celebration of the hard work and dedication of our educators and staff, as well as a chance to engage with our vibrant community.

What to Expect:

• Explore exhibits and displays from each of our schools.
• Interact with dedicated principals, teachers, and staff who will be there to answer questions and provide insights.
• Learn about our innovative curriculum, extracurricular activities, and support services.
• Discover the unique talents and achievements of our students.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023
• Time: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
• Location: Durham Convention Center, 301 W. Morgan Street, Durham, NC

No School

This is a friendly reminder that Wednesday, November 22 – Friday, November 24 is Thanksgiving break.  There will be no school for students. 

Club Meetings

Monday, November 13              

• Basketball Skills 2:15-3:15
• Dance Club 2:15-3:45

Tuesday, November 14

• Drumline 2:15-4:00
• ELL Tutoring 2:30-4:00

Wednesday, November 15        

• FEMMES 2:15-3:15  

Thursday, November 16                           

• Drumline 2:15-4:00
• BOB 2:30-3:30
• ELL Tutoring 2:30-4:00

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November 5, 2023

I would like to send a huge shoutout to our drumline. Yesterday, they had an opportunity to participate in North Carolina Central University homecoming parade. They did an outstanding job and we are extremely proud of them! We also appreciate Mr. Epps' hard work and dedication. He has done an amazing job with our STARS!

No School

This is a friendly reminder that Wednesday, November 7, is a Teacher Workday and Friday, November 10, is a holiday. There will be no school for students. 

Duke Field Trip

On Monday, November 6, our 3^rd- 5^th grade students will attend Education Day at Cameron Indoor Stadium.     

Swim For Charlie

Swim for Charlie will begin this week for Mrs. Eley and Mrs. Granson’s classes.  

Report Cards

Quarter 1 report cards will be distributed on Thursday, November 9. 

Club Meetings

Monday, November 6                 

• Basketball Skills 2:15-3:15
• Dance Club 2:30-4:00

Wednesday, November 8           

• FEMMES+ 2:15-3:15  

Thursday, November 9                

• Drumline 2:15-4:00
• BOB Canceled  
• ELL Tutoring 2:30-4:00

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October 29, 2023

Teacher Workday

This is a friendly reminder that Wednesday, November 1, is a Teacher Workday. 

ELL Tutoring

ELL Tutoring is canceled on Tuesday, October 31. 

POP Celebration

We are looking forward to celebrating our STARS academic growth and positive behavior on Friday, November 3, during our People on Point celebration. Students who have exhibited good behavior during the first quarter will also visit the MVP Privileges Star Store. Families are welcome to attend the POP celebration. The celebration schedule is as follows:

K-2 Awards: 8:05-9:35

3-5 Awards: 9:45-11:15

Club Meetings 

Monday, October 30                   

• Basketball Skills 2:15-3:15
• Dance Club 2:30-4:00

Tuesday, October 31                   

• Drumline 2:15-4:00
• ELL Tutoring Canceled

Thursday, November 2                

• Drumline 2:15-4:00
• BOB 2:30-3:30
• ELL Tutoring 2:30-4:00

---

October 22, 2023

RED RIBBON WEEK

Red Ribbon Week is October 23-27! Sandy Ridge will be celebrating making healthy choices and learning anti-bullying strategies. We would LOVE for your child to participate! Spirit days are as follows: 

• Monday, October 23--Star Jersey Day: Wear your favorite jersey
• Tuesday, October 24--Celebrity Day: Dress as your favorite celebrity
• Wednesday, October 25--Wacky Tacky Wednesday: Show us your Wackiest, Tackiest Outfit!
• Thursday, October 26--Throwback Thursday: Here's another chance to wear clothes from the 70s, 80s, or 90s
• Friday, October 27--College Day: Represent your favorite college.

Throwback Thursday PBIS Kickoff

On Thursday our students and staff will revisit STAR expectations during our STAR kickoff with role playing, skits, singing, dancing and much more. We are looking forward to this event. Behavior expectations are very important at SRE. 

ELL Tutoring

On Tuesday, October 24, we will begin English Language Learners Tutoring. It is not too late to return your child's permission form. We would love for all students who were invited to attend. Tutoring will be held from 2:30-4:00.  

Wellness Day

Durham Public Schools will host a school-based Wellness Day on Friday, October 27, for students and staff to strengthen bonds and address their physical, mental, and social health. On this day, modified social activities will occur during normal school hours.

Club Meetings

Monday, October 23

• Basketball Skills 2:15-3:15

Tuesday, October 24

• Drumline 2:15-4:00
• ELL Tutoring 2:30-4:00

Wednesday, October 25

• FEMMES+ 2:15-3:15

Thursday, October 26

• Drumline 2:15-4:00
• Battle of the Books 2:30-3:30
• ELL Tutoring 2:30-4:00 

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October 15, 2023 

I would like to say thank you to all of our families who attended our Race for the Culture event and made donations to our canned food drive. Your continuous support is greatly appreciated!

Unity Day

On Wednesday, October 18, our STARS will wear orange in celebration of Unity Day to unite for kindness, acceptance, and inclusion to prevent students being bullied. Our students will use positive affirmations and participate in a school-wide activity. 

Swim for Charlie

The 2^nd grade Swim for Charlie Family Information Meeting has been postponed to Thursday, October 26 at 5:30pm.  

Club Meeting Dates  

Monday, October 16       

• Basketball Skills 2:15-3:15

Tuesday, October 17     

• Drumline 2:15-4:00

Thursday, October 19     

• Drumline 2:15-4:00
• Battle of the Books 2:30-3:30

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October 8, 2023

Early Release Day

This is a friendly reminder that Wednesday, October 11 is an early release day and students will be dismissed at 12:15pm.  All transportation changes must be made by 9:00am.  Students may not be signed out after 11:45am.  Afterschool students will be dismissed at the regular time.  Thank you for helping us ensure a smooth dismissal process.

Book Fair and SPIRIT WEEK

Our first Book Fair is this week!  The book fair is October 9-13.

There will be a SPIRIT WEEK to support our book fair! The days are as follows: 

• Monday, October 9--Silly Socks Day
• Tuesday, October 10--Future So Bright, Gotta Wear Shades (sunglasses and neon colors)
• Wednesday, October 11--Wacky Hair Wednesday
• Thursday, October 12--Pajama Day
• Friday, October 13--Sandy Ridge Day (wear your school spirit!!)

We will have a family shopping night for the book fair on Thursday, October 12. Families are encouraged to shop at our book fair as they complete the Race for the Culture activities.

Can Food Drive

We are doing a Canned Food Drive in conjunction with the book fair to serve our community in a different way. Please collect non-perishable food items as a class through Friday, October 13. The class per grade level with the most canned food will win a treat!

Race for the Culture

On Thursday, October 12 from 5:30-7:00 you are cordially invited to our Race for the Culture Multicultural Night where students and parents are welcome to celebrate Latin American culture through exploring and navigating cultures and countries of Latin America. Families will be able to acquire knowledge through the sharing of stories, food, and art that is unique to individual students. Each participant will be presented with a passport with a list of countries to explore. The class that has the most students in attendance will have the opportunity to participate in the PRINCIPAL SWEET CHALLENGE.  Students will pour ice cream and sundae toppings on our Mr. Cooper and I at the end of the event. We can’t wait to see you!

Club Meeting Dates

Monday, October 9       

• Basketball Skills 2:15-3:15

Tuesday, October 10

• Drumline 2:15-4:00

Thursday, October 12

• Drumline 2:15-4:00

**No FEMMES+ or Battle of the Books (BOB) this week!**

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October 1, 2023

Fall Pictures

This is a friendly reminder that fall pictures will be taken on Wednesday, October 4. 

Progress Reports

Durham Public Schools adopted standards-based grading several years ago. Standards-based grading communicates a student’s level of understanding for a particular standard. As you view your child’s progress report, please keep the following information in mind:

4 - Exceeds the standard

3 - Meets the standard

2 - Meets some of the standard

1 - Does not meet the standard

C - Consistently Demonstrates

S - Sometimes Demonstrates

R - Rarely Demonstrates

 

Club Meeting Dates  

Monday, October 2           

• Basketball Skills 2:15-3:30

Wednesday, October 4

• FEMMES 2:15-3:15

Thursday, October 5

• BOB (Battle of the Books) 2:30-3:30

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September 17, 2023

Kindergarten Health Assessments & Vaccination Record

This is a friendly reminder that the state of North Carolina requires the kindergarten health assessment and vaccinations to be submitted within thirty days of school. The deadline is quickly approaching.  Therefore, I would like to encourage you to contact Mrs. Maria Rodriguez, who serves as our data manger. 

Mobile Dentist

This is a friendly reminder that the mobile dentist will be on campus this week from September 18-22.

Meeting with the STARS

You are cordially invited to attend our Title I event,“Meeting with the STARS.” This event will be held on Thursday, September 21, at 5:30pm.  This will be an opportunity to meet with administration to learn more about how we utilize Title I to support student achievement. You will also meet with your child’s teacher to discuss curriculum, data protocols, and classroom updates. Please see the schedule included:

5:30-6:00 - Meet with Administration (Location: Gym)

6:00-6:30 - Meet with the Teacher (Location: Classroom)

Teacher Workday

Monday, September 25 is a Teacher Workday.

Progress Reports

Progress Reports will be distributed on Friday, September 29. 

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September 10, 2023

I’m pleased to announce that Sandy Ridge again ranked in the top 20 percent of schools in the state for academic growth. We are also celebrating exceeding academic growth and improving our school letter grade to a C. I'm so proud of our teachers, staff, and students!  

PTA Meeting & Membership

Our first PTA meeting is on Zoom on Tuesday, September 12, at 6:30 p.m.!  Please see login information included below:

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/4157317298?pwd=UVJBam8xV0pQV0l1SnBGbzJBOWtldz09

Meeting ID

415 731 7298

Passcode V4q2M8

Our PTA Membership is $10

Use this link to join the PTA

Givebacks sandyridge.memberhub.com

Battle of the Books

There will be a Battle of the Books interest meeting for 4th and 5th grade students on Tuesday, September 12, at 2:15. A permission slip is required to attend.

Mobile Dentist

It's not too late to sign up to see the dentist! Return your completed registration form or sign up online today!

Great news! Our school has partnered with Smile Programs (mobile dentists) to offer in-school dental care September 18-22, 2023. Sign your child up today at www.myschooldentist.com.

If your child sees a dentist regularly, and you want to continue care with that dentist, you should do so. Please contact Mrs. Allen with any questions or contact Smile North Carolina at (855) 481-8639.

Dot Day

Dot day will be held on Friday, September 15.  All STARS are encouraged to wear polka dots. 

Attendance

This is a friendly reminder to send a note to the office when your child is absent.  For additional information please see the link included below:

https://www.dpsnc.net/Page/2176

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September 4, 2023

Carpool

I would like to say thank you to all of the families for doing such a wonderful job with following carpool expectations. This is a friendly reminder that no students can be picked up from the main entrance following dismissal except through the carpool line, so please remain in your vehicle and follow the line to pick up your student(s). We are working to keep our students safe. We would also like to reduce outgoing afternoon traffic from the staff parking lot, which causes delays in the carpool line.  

Early Dismissal

We have noticed a peak in early dismissals. As you know, we value and strive to protect instructional time daily. Instruction begins at 7:45 and ends at 2:15. Please be mindful of picking students up early on a  consistent basis.  

Beginning of Grade Testing - 3^rd Grade

The BOG3 reading test establishes a baseline measure of beginning third-grade students' reading skills. Students who score an achievement level 3 or higher on the BOG3 reading test demonstrate reading proficiency appropriate for third-grade students, which satisfies the requirements of the Read to Achieve legislation. Third grade students will take the BOG3 on Thursday, September 7.  Please make your best effort to ensure that students get plenty of rest and are present and on time for school. 

mCLASS Testing

mCLASS is a universal screener that measures the development of reading skills of all students in grades K-5 through two main assessments: Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills (DIBELS) assessments. The mCLASS testing window will open next week. All K-5 students will begin their beginning of year assessment on Monday, September 11. 

iReady

iReady is an online program that helps students in reading and math. It helps determine students' needs, personalize instruction, and monitor their progress. The iReady assessment window will open Wednesday, September 6. 

Thanks Kindly,

Lanisha Hinton
Principal

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May 22, 2023

On Friday, our students will begin End of Grade testing. Let’s work together and make your child’s experience a positive and successful one. We’ve been preparing at school with daily instruction, small group intervention, and EOG principal data talks. 

Here are some suggestions of things you can do to help:

• Ensure your child arrives on time
• Have your child eat a healthy breakfast at home or at school
• Ensure your child gets a good night's rest
• Gently encourage them to do their best

Please see the testing schedule below:

Friday, May 26            3^rd ELA and  5^th Science 

Tuesday, May 30          Makeups

Wednesday, May 31    4^th and  5^th Math

Thursday, June 1         4^th  and 5^th ELA

Friday, June 2              3^rd Math and Makeups

Monday, June 5            RTA and Makeups

 

Proctors Needed

We are still in need of volunteers to proctor on May 26, May 31, June 1, and June 2^. All proctors will need to be trained no later than Wednesday, May 24.  If you are interested in proctoring, please contact Mr. Robert Lavender. 

EOG PEP Rally

We would like to continue to encourage our stars to do well on their EOGs. Therefore, we will be hosting our EOG Pep Rally on Thursday, May 25 at 8:50am. The PEP Rally will be held outside in the bus parking lot.  During this time, we will recognize our end of year K-5 Hall of Fame students from each grade level. In addition, there will be a special performance from our step team and drumline. Families are welcome to attend.

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May 14, 2023 

Wishing a very happy Mother’s Day to all of our Sandy Ridge mothers!! Thank you for being such wonderful mothers and trusting us daily with your children!!

Volunteers Needed for Testing

EOG testing is quickly approaching. We are in need of volunteers to proctor for EOG testing.  If you are interested in proctoring, please sign up at http://www.bit.ly/SREDurhamVolunteers

If you have any questions, please reach out to Mr. Lavender at Robert_Lavender@dpsnc.net

 

Club/Tutoring Meeting Dates

Monday, May 15           

• We Are Queens  2:30-4:00
• BOB Celebration  2:30-3:30

Wednesday, May 17

• Garden Club  2:15-4:00

Thursday, May 18

• Durham Cares  2:30-4:00

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May 7, 2023

Thank you

I would like to say thank you to the PTA and all of our families who showed our teachers and staff love during teacher appreciation week. Your love, support, and gifts are greatly appreciated. I would also like to send a huge shout out to all parents who volunteered for field day.

Returning Student Registration

The 2023-2024 Back to School Registration Form opened on Friday. This is required for all students returning to Sandy Ridge, moving to middle school, or going to another school next year. You can also request bus transportation for the upcoming school year by completing this form. You are encouraged to complete this form at your earliest convenience. Please see the email that was shared by Carolyn Allen. If you have questions please direct them to Carolyn_Allen@dpsnc.net or call 919-560-2695.

Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month

In celebration of Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month, our students will participate in daily trivia to recognize the contributions and influence of Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Americans to the history, culture, and achievements in the United States.  

Progress Reports

Progress Reports will be distributed in Tuesday, May 9.

School Nurse Day

On Wednesday, May 10, we will celebrate School Nurse Day. We would like to recognize our school nurse Mrs. Rebecca Worlu for meeting the medical needs of our students and all the support that she has provided.We greatly appreciate her!

mCLASS Testing

Our mCLASS testing window has opened and testing will begin tomorrow for K-3 students. The window will be open for the next two weeks. As a reminder mCLASS is a universal screener that measures the development of reading skills of all students in K-5. We are looking forward to seeing the growth that our students have made this year.

Star Study Tutoring

The last day of Star Study Tutoring is Thursday, May 11.

Club Showcase

You are cordially invited to attend our Club Showcase on Thursday, May 11 at 5:30. All dancers, drumline, and clay club members should arrive no later than 5:00pm.

 

Club/Tutoring Meeting Dates

Tuesday, May 9

• STAR Study Tutoring (K-5th)  2:15-4:00
• Basketball  2:15-3:30

Thursday, May 4

• STAR Study Tutoring (K-5th)  2:15-4:00

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April 30, 2023

Teacher Appreciation Week

I would like to say thank you to all of our teachers and staff for what you do on a regular basis to support students and improve academic achievement.  This week we will celebrate teacher appreciation week.  Please see updates included about how you can get involved:

Monday 5/1

Wear your baseball hat to school in celebration of teachers.  You can also bring signs, notes and drawings to cheer your teachers on!

Tuesday 5/2

Teachers are invited to a carb load for the games with bagels and cream cheese in the lounge.

Wednesday 5/3

GAME DAY! Bring a gift for your teachers because they are ALL STARS!

Thursday 5/4

7^th Inning Stretch + Concessions: Bring your teachers a fun snack!

Friday 5/5

HOME RUN! Grown-ups volunteer are needed for field day! PTA will provided lunch in the lounge for staff!

SIGN UP TO DONATE FOOD!

http://bit.ly/SREallstars

SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER FOR FIELD DAY

http://www.bit.ly/SREDurhamVolunteers

Early Release Day

Wednesday is an early release day and students will be dismissed at 12:15pm. Transportation changes will not be accepted after 9:00am. Students cannot be signed out after 11:45am on early release days.  

1^st Grade Performance

Our 1^st grade performance will be held on Wednesday, May 3, at 6:00pm. All families are welcome to attend. 

Field Day

We are excited to announce that our students will participate in field day on Friday, May 5. We appreciate all of our families who have signed up to volunteer. Additional families are encouraged to sign up at http://www.bit.ly/SREDurhamVolunteers.    

Club/Tutoring Meeting Dates

Monday, May 1

• Dance Club    2:30-4:00
• Garden Club   2:30-4:00

Tuesday, May 2  

• STAR Study Tutoring (K-5th)  2:15-4:00

Thursday, May 4

• STAR Study Tutoring (K-5th)  2:15-4:00
• Durham Cares  2:15-4:00

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April 23, 2023

Congratulations to our step team and Mrs. Knight for receiving 3^rd place in the Hillside High School Step Show.  They did an amazing job.  We are so proud of them!

Apex Fun Run

Our students had a blast solving the Mystery of the X-Factor and becoming great leaders. I would like to send a huge THANK YOU to our Sandy Ridge Family for all of your contributions and support of the Apex Fun Run fundraiser. I’m pleased to announce that, as a result of your help, our school raised a total of $19,305.98. Again, thank you for all of your support!

Benchmark Testing

3^rd-5^th Grade makeup benchmark test will be taken on Monday, April 24. 

K-2 Durham Bulls Game

Our Sandy Ridge stars have been working so hard this school year. As a reward, our K-2 students will attend the Durham Bulls game on Tuesday, April 25.  We appreciate all of our parents who volunteered to chaperone for the K-2 and/or 3-5 game.   

SRE EOG 20 Day Review

EOG testing is quickly approaching. Our teachers and staff are working diligently to prepare students for EOGs.  Our 20-day review will be held from April 26-May 25. During this time, students will practice test-taking strategies and work to prepare for their EOGs. 

Club/Tutoring Meeting Dates

Monday, April 24           

• Dance Club  2:30-4:00

Tuesday, April 25

• STAR Study Tutoring (K-5th)  2:15-4:00

Thursday, April 27

• STAR Study Tutoring (K-5th)  2:15-4:00

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April 16, 2023

Benchmark Testing

3-5 benchmark testing will be held this week. Please ensure that students receive their proper rest the night prior to testing, eat breakfast, and arrive at school on time daily on testing days. This end of year data will be utilized to determine next steps for each student and support with planning our 20 day EOG testing review. Please see testing dates included below:

Monday, April 17            4th & 5th Grade Math

Tuesday, April 18            4th & 5th Grade Reading

Wednesday, April 19    5th Grade Science & 3rd Grade ELA

Thursday, April 20        3rd Grade Math

Monday, April 24          Make Ups

 

Apex Fun Run

Thank you to all of our families that have contributed to our Fun Run fundraiser!  You are greatly appreciated!  We have the Apex team at school teaching the students leadership lessons like how to be fearless when things are hard, how to adapt to new situations, and how important it is to care about our effort in all we do. Ask your child what leadership lesson they learned last week! The Apex team is putting on a huge event on April 21st to celebrate everything they learn and the money we raise!

Students are aiming to get pledges from 10 sponsors to help raise money for the school, and they are earning awards for their pledges. On average, students complete between a minimum of 26 laps and a maximum of 36 laps, with 36 laps being the most they can get credit for. So, if a pledge is made for $1 per lap, the donation should be between $26 minimum - $36 maximum dollars. To donate, please check out your student’s “Apex VIP Badge” that was sent home earlier last week. All instructions are inside. Just go to www.myapexevent.com and use your student’s special “access code” or QR code printed on their lanyard to log in and enter your pledges. If you cannot find your code, just email info@apexleadershipco.com. 

 

Club/Tutoring Meeting Dates

Monday, April 17           

• Garden Club  2:30-4:00
• Clay Club  2:30-4:00
• We Are Queens 2:30-4:00 CANCELLED

Tuesday, April 18

• STAR Study Tutoring (K-5th)  2:15-4:00

Thursday, April 20

• STAR Study Tutoring (K-5th)  2:15-4:00 CANCELLED  
• Durham Cares   2:30-4:00

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April 2, 2023

National Assistant Principals Appreciation Week (April 3-7)

In celebration of National Assistant Principals Week, I would like to take a moment to recognize our amazing assistant principal, Mr. Cooper. He has made a positive impact on the lives of our students and staff. He is an exceptional leader and we are grateful to have him as a member of the Sandy Ridge family.

National School Librarian Day (April 4)

In addition, April 4 is National School Librarian Day. I would like to say thank you to Ms. Dunn for everything that she does to promote the love of reading. She has played a huge role in helping our students learn important facts about Black History and Women’s History. We are thankful to have her as a member of the Sandy Ridge family as well.

Book Fair & Change Drive

I’m excited to announce that our book fair will be held from April 6-14!   

It’s Book Fair time again—which means it’s CHANGE DRIVE time again! Last fall, we raised over $800 as a school and made sure that EVERY STAR could get a book from the Book Fair. What an incredible thing!! Back then, the winning class earned a cookie decorating party from me (Ms. Dunn). This go around, we’ve upped the ante a bit! Each grade level will compete together—which means that everyone in the winning grade level will get the prize—and it’s sure to be one of their favorite experiences all year!

So, what is the prize?

The winning grade level will get to duct tape our VERY favorite assistant principal, Mr. Cooper, to the wall!!

So start digging through those couch cushions, and your STAR could get this amazing experience of bonding with their classmates—and literally BOND Mr. Cooper to the wall (temporarily, of course! He’s such a great sport.)

Have you gone cashless (I have--mostly!)? Not to worry—you can add your kiddo’s “change” directly to our Starlight the Book Fairy e-Wallet by following this link: https://shop.scholastic.com/ewallet/fund?lang=en_US&walletId=e997d44a-0563-4832-835a-e87d71a8abf2. Once you load your funds, email me at Rachel_dunn@dpsnc.net to let me know your kiddo’s name and grade level so that I can make sure to properly attribute the funds to the right grade level and student! (The wallet says “1^st grade,” but don’t worry—the funds in the Starlight the Book Fairy’s eWallet can benefit any STAR of any grade level. They just make me pick one. J)

Email me at Rachel_Dunn@dpsnc.net if you have any questions! How much can we raise for our STARS???

Quarter 3 Report Cards

Report Cards will be distributed on Thursday April 6.

No School

Good Friday Holiday - April 7

Teacher Workday - April 10

Club/Tutoring Meeting Dates  

Monday, April 3             

• Garden Club  2:30-4:00
• Dance Club  2:15-4:00 
• We Are Queens  2:30-4:00

Tuesday, April 4

• STAR Study Tutoring (K-5)  2:15-4:00

Thursday, April 6

• STAR Study Tutoring (K-5)  2:15-4:00
• Durham Cares  2:30-4:00

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March 19, 2023

Stone Soup Musical/Title I Event
You are cordially invited to attend our 3rd grade Stone Soup Performance and Title I Event, which will be held this Thursday, March 23, from 5:30pm-6:30pm.  All 3-5 families are welcome to attend to hear more about our Recipe for Success prior to the 3rd grade musical. All families in attendance will receive a Recipe for Success handout and a few cans of Campbell’s soup. We hope to see you there!

POP Awards Celebration
On Friday, March 24, we will celebrate academic achievement, positive behavior and perfect attendance during our 3rd quarter POP Celebration. Parents are welcome to attend and seating is limited. The awards ceremony schedule is as follows:
K-2:  8:05-9:35
3-5:  9:45-11:15

Spring Break
Spring Break is March 27-31.  All students and staff will return to school on Monday, April 3. 

Club/Tutoring Meeting Dates

Monday, March 20     

• Clay Club  2:15-4:00
• We Are Queens  2:30-4:00

Tuesday, March 21

• Star Study Tutoring (K-5)  2:15-4:00

Thursday, March 23

• Star Study Tutoring (K-5)  2:15-4:00

Friday, March 24

• FEMMES  2:15-3:15

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March 12, 2023

 

2^nd Grade CogAT Testing

Our 2^nd graders will begin CogAT testing tomorrow, Monday, March 13, through Wednesday, March 15. This is friendly reminder to ensure that your child gets enough sleep, eats breakfast, and is at school on time this week.

Spring Picture Day

Spring Pictures will be taken on Thursday, March 16.

K-2 Star Study Tutoring

Star Study Tutoring will begin this week for K-2 students. Tutoring will be held on every Tuesday and Thursday to review reading and math. All students will be released at 4:00. You still have time to submit your tutoring forms.

Club/Tutoring Meeting Dates

Monday, March 13

• Garden Club  2:15-4:00
• Dance Club  2:15-4:00

Tuesday, March 14

• Star Study Tutoring K-5  2:15-4:00
• Basketball  2:15-3:30

Thursday, March 16

• Star Study Tutoring K-5  2:15-4:00

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March 5, 2023

 

National School Breakfast Week

In honor of National School Breakfast Week (NSBW) March 6-10, 2023, School Nutrition Services will be celebrating with events and activities at every school, each day. This year’s theme is “Dig In to Breakfast.” Our activities will include daily announcements, coloring sheets, give-a-ways, and inviting Sandy the Star to breakfast.

Tornado Drill

As spring is quickly approaching, we must start preparing for severe weather! Sandy Ridge will participate in the State-Wide Tornado Drill on March 8, at 9:30 A.M.

5^th Grade Tutoring Dismissal Time Change 

I would like to inform you that 5^th grade students will be dismissed from tutoring at 4:00 beginning this week. 

Club/Tutoring Meeting Dates

Monday, March 6          

• Clay Club  2:15-4:00
• We Are Queens  2:30-4:00

Tuesday, March 7

• Star Study Tutoring (3rd-5th)  2:15-4:00
• Basketball  2:15-3:30

Thursday, March 9

• Star Study Tutoring (3rd-5th)  2:15-4:00

Friday, March 10

• FEMMES  2:15-3:15

 

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February 26, 2023

 

Thank You! 

I would like to say thank you to everyone who attended our Black History Performance. It was a huge success and we are so proud of our Sandy Ridge STARS!!! Also, we appreciate our PTA for supporting us with concessions and the food truck.   

Crown Act Spirit Week

Durham Public Schools is celebrating CROWN Act Spirit Week! Show off your CROWN and use the hashtag #DPSCrownWeek2023 to help us celebrate the law promoting a respectful and open world for natural hair. #WeAreDPS

Monday: Big Hair, Don’t Care
Tuesday: Braids & Twists
Wednesday: Crown of Colors
Thursday: Natural Hair/Crown Apparel
Friday: Locs of Power

Send your pics to carolyn_allen@dpsnc.net be shared on social media!
 

5^th Grade Wax Museum

In celebration of Black History month, our 5^th grade students will present their wax museum research projects in the media center on Tuesday, February 28. Parents/guardians of 5^th grade students are welcome to attend. The presentations are scheduled based on their ELA Reading Block. If you have questions, please contact your child’s teacher on Class Dojo. Please see the schedule included below:

• Block 1: 8:30-9:30
• Block 2: 11:00-12:00

Women’s History Month

I’m excited to announce that Sandy Ridge students and staff will celebrate Women’s History during the month of March by highlighting female music artists, daily read alouds, and trivia.

Read Across America Week

In our efforts to encourage, motivate, and inspire students to read, we will celebrate Read Across America Week from Thursday, March 2 - Monday, March 6. Read Across America activities are included below:

Read-A-Thon - Thursday, March 2 (School-wide Reading Competition)

Caught You Reading - Friday, March 3 (Receive a special treat and photo if caught reading)

Women’s History Makers Space - Monday, March 6 (Visit makers space to make women’s history bookmarks)

 

Battle of the Book Competition

We would like to wish our Sandy Ridge STARS the best of luck as they compete in BOB competition tomorrow!!!

 

Club/Tutoring Meeting Dates

Monday, February 27

• Garden Club  2:30-4:00
• Dance Club  2:15-4:15

Tuesday, February 28

• Star Study Tutoring (3rd-4th)  2:15-4:00
• Star Study Tutoring (5^th )  2:15-4:30
• Basketball  2:15-3:30
• Drumming 2:30-4:00

Wednesday, March 1

• Drumming  2:30-4:00
• Step Practice  2:15-4:00

Thursday, March 2

• Star Study Tutoring (3rd-4th)  2:15-4:00
• Star Study Tutoring (5^th )  2:15-4:30
• Durham Cares  2:30-4:00

Friday, March 3

• FEMMES  2:15-3:15

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February 20, 2023

No School   

Monday, February 20, is a Teacher Workday.

Progress Reports

Quarter 3 progress reports will be distributed on Tuesday, February 21.   

Black History Performance & Wax Museum

In celebration of Black History month, this year’s theme is NC Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Our 5^th grade Black History performance will be held on Thursday, February 23, from 5:30-6:30.  Please join us for our wax museum, singing, dancing, stepping and much more. Smokehouse Bandits will be onsite and there is still time to preorder. Please see the information included below: 

SANDY RIDGE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PTA WELCOMES:

The Smokehouse Bandits
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2023
FOOD TRUCK
4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
SRE SCHOOL BUS LOT

The Smokehouse Bandits BBQ Cooking Team will be on campus serving up their delicious menu in celebration of our Black History Night Program.

PRE-ORDERS ARE RECOMMENDED FOR FASTEST SERVICE & ARE AVAILABLE STARTING FEBRUARY 16TH ONLINE AT: https://streetfoodfinder.com/smokehouse76
 

Club/Tutoring Meeting Dates

Tuesday, February 21

• Battle of the Books (BOB)  2:15-3:30
• We Are Queens  2:30-4:00
• Star Study Tutoring (3rd-4th)  2:15-4:00
• Star Study Tutoring (5^th )  2:15-4:30
• Basketball  2:15-3:30

Wednesday, February 22

• Battle of the Books (BOB)  2:15-3:30
• Step Practice  2:15-4:00

Thursday, February 23

• Star Study Tutoring (3rd-4th)  2:15-4:00
• Star Study Tutoring (5^th )  2:15-4:30

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February 12, 2023

Black History Month Luncheon  

Sandy Ridge staff and students will celebrate Black History month with a luncheon on Tuesday, February 14. Thank you to all of our families who have signed up to attend. When you arrive, please sign in at the main office and you will be escorted to the cafeteria to join your child for lunch.

Class Picture Day

This is a friendly reminder that Friday, February 17, is class picture day.

ACCESS Testing Begins

Our English Language Learners will continue ACCESS testing this week throughout the month of February. As a reminder, it is important that students are present and on time for school during testing. These results will be utilized to make informed decisions about students’ education. ACCESS measures what students know and can do in the English domains of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing.

 

Club/Tutoring Meeting Dates

Monday, February 13

• Battle of the Books (BOB) 2:15-3:30
• Clay Club 2:15-4:00

Tuesday, February 14

• Battle of the Books (BOB) 2:15-3:30
• Star Study Tutoring (3rd-4th) 2:15-4:00
• Star Study Tutoring (5^th ) 2:15-4:30
• T3 Labs Basketball 2:15-3:30

Thursday, February 16

• Star Study Tutoring (3rd-4th) 2:15-4:00
• Star Study Tutoring (5^th ) 2:15-4:30
• Durham Cares 2:30-4:00

Friday, February 17

• FEMMES+ 2:15-3:15

 

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February 5, 2023 

National School Counseling Week

I would like to bring your attention to the unique contribution that our school counselors have made to our entire student body and school community. Sending a special thank you to Mrs. Crystal Laws, Kacy Snow and Crystal Sterling for always going the extra mile to ensure that our students' social and emotional needs are met on a daily basis. They are greatly appreciated!  

 

ACCESS Testing Begins

Our English Language Learners will begin ACCESS testing tomorrow, Monday, February 6, and continue to test throughout the month of February. It is important that students are present and on time for school during testing. These results will be utilized to make informed decisions about students’ education. ACCESS measures what students know and can do in the English domains of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing.

 

Black History Month Celebration Week

Sandy Ridge staff and students will celebrate Black History month with spirit week.  Please see the information included below:

Monday, February 6: HBCU PRIDE

Come dressed to represent your favorite HBCU

Tuesday, February 7: AFRICAN PRINT DAY  

All of you are invited to wear your bold, royal African prints. You can also wear an outfit of yellow, green, and red to honor and recognition of the history and legacy of the black diaspora!

Wednesday, February 8: PRESIDENTIAL EXCELLENCE DAY

Barack Obama was America’s first black president and Kamala Harris is our first female Asian/Black vice-president. Come dressed for success in your business attire. 

Thursday, February 9: THROWBACK THURSDAY  

Bellbottoms, fanny packs, and big hair. Show your fashion from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.   

Friday, February 10: BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL FRIDAY  

Wear all black attire as a reminder that black is beautiful!

 

Star Study Tutoring 

This is a friendly reminder that star study tutoring will begin this week for 3rd-5th grade students. Tutoring will be held every Tuesday and Thursday to review reading, math and 5^th grade science. Third and fourth grade students will be released at 4:00. Fifth grade tutoring will be extended and students will be released at 4:30 due to 3 tested subject areas.   

 

Early Release   

This is a friendly reminder that Wednesday, February 8, is an early release day and students will be dismissed at 12:15pm. All transportation changes must be made by 9:00am. Students may not be signed out after 11:45am. Afterschool students will be dismissed at the regular time. Thank you for helping us ensure a smooth dismissal process.

 

Marvelous Movie Night

You are invited to attend our Title I Marvelous Movie night on Thursday, February 9, from 5:30-6:30.  During this time, our students will enjoy a movie and popcorn, while you have the opportunity to meet with your child’s teacher regarding their mClass and iReady data and receive important updates. We hope to see you there. 

 

100^th Day of School

We are pleased to announce that Friday, February 10, is our 100^th day of school. 

 

Club/Tutoring Meeting Dates

Monday, February 6

• Battle of the Books (BOB) 2:15-3:30           
• Garden Club 2:15-4:00
• Dance Club 2:15-4:00
• We Are Queens 2:30-4:00

Tuesday, February 7

• Battle of the Books (BOB) 2:15-3:30
• Star Study Tutoring (3rd-4th) 2:15-4:00
• Star Study Tutoring (5^th ) 2:15-4:30

Thursday, February 9

• Star Study Tutoring (3rd-4th) 2:15-4:00
• Star Study Tutoring (5^th ) 2:15-4:30

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January 29, 2023

3-5 Star Study Tutoring

Star Study tutoring forms are due.  Please return it at your earliest convenience, if you have not had an opportunity to do so. Tutoring will begin on Tuesday, February 7. 

 

Yearbooks

The early bird deadline for yearbook sales is Tuesday, January 31.  Yearbooks can be purchased at $15.00.

 

Growing Together Community Meeting

On Wednesday, February 1, at 5:30 we will host a Growing Together community meeting for our families.  The meeting will be held in the gym and staff will be available to support you with questions pertaining to your child’s school assignment.

 

SRE PTA General Body PTA Meeting  

The PTA meeting will be held on Thursday, February 2, from 6:30-7:30 via Zoom. 

 

Magnet Application Window

This is a friendly reminder that the magnet application window is open now. If you have a student who will be 5 years old on or before August 31 of this year, please be sure to complete a magnet lottery application before February 6, at 5 p.m. Tell your friends and neighbors what you love about Sandy Ridge and encourage them to apply as well. Students can only enroll in Sandy Ridge this fall after completing the magnet lottery application and assignment process. If you have any questions, please contact our Magnet Coordinator Mrs. Allen.

 

Club Meeting Dates  

Monday, January 30

• Battle of the Books (BOB): 2:15-3:15           
• Clay Club: 2:15-4:00

Thursday, February 2

• Durham Cares: 2:30-4:00

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January 22, 2023

Congratulations to the following students for receiving district recognition as Durham’s Finest Art Students:

Cameron S.

Phinelie M.

Eden S.

Michael W.

 

Report Cards

Quarter 2 report cards will be distributed on Tuesday, January 24.

 

Star Study Tutoring

Star Study Tutoring will be provided for all 3-5 students who have been identified as our target students. Target students are students who need supplemental academic support to be proficient and/or on grade level. Star Study Tutoring forms should be returned no later than Thursday, February 26.

 

Club/Tutoring Meeting Dates

Monday, January 23

• Battle of the Books: 2:15-3:30
• Garden Club: 2:30-4:00
• Dance Club: 2:15-4:15
• We Are Queens: 2:30-4:00

Tuesday, January 24

• Last Day of ELL Tutoring

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January 8, 2023

Magnet Application Window

The application window for the 2023-2024 school year opens tomorrow (January 9). If you have a student who will be 5 years old on or before August 31 of this year, please be sure to complete a magnet lottery application before February 6 at 5 p.m. Tell your friends and neighbors what you love about Sandy Ridge and encourage them to apply as well. Students can only enroll in Sandy Ridge this fall after completing the magnet lottery application and assignment process. If you have any questions, please contact our magnet coordinator, Mrs. Allen.

Dean of Students

We are excited to welcome Mrs. Phebe Eley to the Sandy Ridge family.  She is joining the team with over 20 years of experience in education as a teacher, coach and administrator.  She will serve as our Dean of Students and MTSS Coordinator.

Club Meetings

Monday

• Battle of the Books (BOB) 2:15-3:15           
• Garden Club  2:30-4:00

Tuesday & Thursday

• ELL Tutoring  2:30-4:00

Testing

Our K-3 and 4th grade RTA students will begin middle of the year mClass testing on Wednesday, January 11.

 

People on Point Celebration and Awards Ceremony

On Friday, January 13, we will celebrate our students’ academic success and positive behavior.  Students who have met their dojo goal will attend the “Just Keep it Poppin Party.”

 

In-School Visitation

I would like to inform you that after two years of restricted visitation, Durham Public Schools has updated our procedures for visiting elementary schools during operational hours. These changes have been made on you and your students’ behalf to ensure that safety, relationships, equity, independence and instructional time remain our priorities. These changes will begin this week, on Monday, January 9. Please see our school classroom visitation protocol and plan included below and in the Principal’s Corner.

 

Sandy Ridge Classroom Visitation Protocol and Plan

 

Safety	Staff and star patrol will welcome carpool students daily through the loading zones at the front entrance.  There is designated parking for families who need to walk their students into the building.   All visitors will sign into the visitor management system in the main office and obtain a visitor badge after 7:45 to adhere to safety protocols.
Relationships	We highly encourage an inclusive and welcoming environment at Sandy Ridge, where students feel safe, comfortable and respected. Throughout the building we’ve implemented the following:  During morning carpool/bus duty staff and star patrol students will hold encouraging signs to affirm our commitment to be welcoming and inclusive. The statements on the signs include: It’s great to see you You are loved You belong here You are a STAR   “The Hug Zone” locations are designated for the first station (red square) and the designated parking spaces at the front of the school. Families are strongly encouraged to take advantage of “The Hug Zone” before 7:35 a.m. to prevent student tardiness.  The Sandy Ridge Star mascot will welcome students on a daily basis during morning carpool and bus drop off. Throughout the year, the mascot will hand out Sandy Ridge Stars with positive affirmations.
Equity	All volunteers/helpers will follow the DPS volunteer process and policy.    All Volunteers must have a current volunteer approval on file with Durham Public Schools  https://www.dpsnc.net/volunteers  All Volunteers must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19  All volunteers must be screened upon entering the building  Masks are recommended at all times (indoors and outdoors) All volunteers must depart immediately at the end of their shift.
Independence	During carpool students will be welcomed by staff in the loading zone. Families are encouraged to drop their child off between 7:15 and 7:45. Counselors will be available for families who need additional support with transitioning into the building.  2022-23 Carpool Letter
Instructional Time	Administration will maintain an open door policy for all families daily. Families are encouraged to support instructional time by ensuring that students are dropped off on time daily and refraining from checking students up early.    Conferences with your student’s teacher will be scheduled upon request and all required school staff will attend.  Family communication will continue through weekly updates through School Messenger, Class Dojo, newsletters, and phone calls.

 

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January 3, 2023

Happy New Year Sandy Ridge Family & Friends! 

I hope everyone has enjoyed a relaxed and joyful winter break. This is a friendly reminder that students will return to school tomorrow, Wednesday, January 4. In addition, ELL tutoring will resume on Thursday, January 5. We are looking forward to welcoming our students back to school bright and early tomorrow morning. 

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December 18, 2022

Club/Tutoring Meeting Dates

Monday, December 19 

• BOB: 2:15-3:15
• Garden Club: 2:30-4:00
• We Are Queens: 2:30-4:00

Tuesday, December 20 

• Early Release: 12:15 *Please note the DPS After School program will be closed on 12/20. All students must depart campus at 12:15 p.m.

Wednesday, December 21-Tuesday, January 3

• Winter Break

Wednesday, January 4

• Students Return to School

 

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December 11, 2022

 

MOY Benchmark Testing

This is a friendly reminder that we will administer makeup benchmark testing for 3-5^th grade students on Monday and Tuesday of this week.  If your child missed their benchmark test last week, we need your support in ensuring that they are present and on time for school. 

We Are Queens

On Monday, December 12, our Sandy Ridge Queens will have a Pizza & Packing Party from 2:30-4:00. (This event has been postponed--more details to follow.) Our Queens have worked diligently to identify and plan a community service project, which will take place afterschool tomorrow.  They will also participate in the parade on Saturday, December 17.  We are so proud of our Queens!

Battle of the Books

Battle of the Books is canceled on Monday, December 12.

Picture Makeup Day

This is a friendly reminder that picture makeups will be taken on Tuesday, December 13. 

Gingerbread Baby Kindergarten Performance

The performance will be held on Thursday, December 15 at 5:30.  Students participating in the show should report to school at 5:00.  All families are welcome to attend. 

Club/Tutoring Meeting Dates

Monday, December 12 

• BOB Canceled
• We Are Queens  Canceled 

Tuesday, December 13 & Thursday, December 15  

• ELL Tutoring:  2:30-4:00

Wednesday, December 14

• T3 Basketball 2:15-3:30

Friday, December 16

• We Are Kings: 1:30

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December 4, 2022

Benchmark Testing

This week our 3^rd -5^th grade students will complete their MOY benchmark testing. I would like to encourage you to ensure that all students get their proper rest and arrive at school on time each day.

Please see the testing schedule included below:

Monday, Dec. 5 -  5th Grade Science

Tuesday, Dec. 6 - 5th Grade ELA

Wednesday, Dec. 7 - 5th  Grade Math

Thursday, Dec. 8 - 3rd/4th Grade ELA

Friday, Dec. 9 - 3rd/4th Grade Math

Monday, Dec. 12 - Makeups

Tuesday, Dec. 13 - Makeups   

Fall Book Fair & Spirit Week

In celebration of the fall book fair, our students will show their Sandy Ridge pride by participating in spirit week. Please see how students can participate below:

Monday December 5: Wacky Hair Day

Make your hairstyle as wacky as you can!

Tuesday December 6: Silly Socks & Shoes Day & Family Shopping Night 5:00-6:30

Who says socks and shoes have to match? Get Silly!

Wednesday December 7: Future So Bright, Gotta Wear Shades  

Break out the neon colors and sunglasses!

Thursday December 8: Throwback Thursday  

Raid your grown-up’s closet and throw it back to the 90’s, 80’s or beyond!

Friday December 9: Sandy Ridge Day

We are the Sandy Ridge STARS! Wear your turquoise, lime green, and stars!

Club Meeting Dates

The following clubs will meet this week:

Monday, December 5

• We Are Queens 2:30-4:00
• Garden Club 2:30-4:00

Tuesday, December 6 & Thursday, December 8

• ELL Tutoring 2:30-4:00

 

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November 27, 2022

PTA General Body Meeting

Our PTA general body meeting will be held on Thursday, December 1, at 6:30 p.m. We would love to see you there. The meeting link will be shared separately.   

Progress Reports

Progress reports will be distributed on Friday, December 2.

Club Meeting Dates

The following clubs will meet this week:

Monday, November 28

• Battle of the Books (BOB) 2:15-3:15

Tuesday, November 29, and Thursday, December 1

• English Language Learning (ELL) Tutoring 2:15-4:00

Wednesday, November 30

• T3 Basketball 2:15-3:30

 

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November 20, 2022

 

Thanksgiving Holiday

This is a friendly reminder that there is no school on Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday of this week in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. We will return to school on Monday, November 28.  We hope all SRE families enjoy your break. 

SRE Club Meeting Dates

Please see the following club meeting dates included below:

Monday, November 21

• We Are Queens 2:30-4:00
• Battle of the Books 2:15-3:15
• Garden Club 2:30-4:00

 

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November 13, 2022

 

5th Grade Student Climate Survey

Students in 5th grade will be taking a survey regarding the school climate and the overall learning environment at our school (online) on Monday, November 14. This survey will help our school learn more about the school’s climate and safety and to help make our school better, along with supporting student success. Please encourage your child to take the survey seriously and answer questions honestly. Thank you for your help and support with our Student Climate Survey.

Club Meeting Dates

The following clubs will meet this week:

Monday, November 14

• Battle of the Books (BOB) 2:15-3:15
• FEMMES 2:15-3:15

Tuesday, November 15 and Thursday, November 17

• English Language Learning (ELL) Tutoring 2:15-4:00

2^nd Grade Performance

You are cordially invited to our 2^nd grade Native American History Fable Performance on Thursday, November 17, from 5:00-6:30 p.m.   

 

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November 6, 2022

 

Upcoming Workdays & Holidays

This is a friendly reminder that Tuesday, November 8, is a Teacher Workday.  Friday, November 11, is Veteran's Day Holiday and there will be no school. 

SRE Club Meeting Dates

Please see the following club meeting dates included below:

Monday, November 7

• We Are Queens 2:30-4:00
• FEMMES 2:15-3:15
• Battle of the Books 2:15-3:15

Wednesday, November 9

• T3 Basketball 2:15-3:30

ELL Tutoring

English Language Learner (ELL) Tutoring will begin on Thursday, November 10.  All students must be picked up at 4:00. 

 

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October 30, 2022

 

Upcoming Workdays & Holidays

Tomorrow, Monday, October 31, is a Teacher Workday.  In addition, I would like to inform you that Tuesday, November 8, is also a Teacher Workday.  Friday, November 11, is Veterans Day Holiday and there will be no school. 

Morning Carpool

This is a friendly reminder that the parking lot is only utilized for staff parking and Pre-k drop-off.  Please display your Pre-K carpool tags each morning to access the parking lot.  We are striving to maintain a safe carpool drop-off.   

ident-a-Kid Picture Day

On Thursday, November 3, a photographer will be on site to take photos for ident-a-kid child IDs. If you would like to purchase an ID for your child, please look for an order form that came home on Friday, October 28, or download your own at https://identakid.com/files/online-app-1.pdf. Students must have payment in hand in order to be photographed. Please be sure to send exact change or a check or money order only. Any siblings that do not attend SRE are welcome to attend if you would like to bring them at 8:45 AM. Online payments are not accepted and the photographer cannot make change. There is no makeup picture day.

1 ID Card - $9
2 ID Cards - $12
4 ID Cards - $15
Each additional card after 4 - $3

If you have any questions about the ident-a-kid program please email
identakidprograms@gmail.com or call 919-673-4171   

 

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October 23, 2022

 

Thank you to all of the families who attended our Hispanic Heritage Festival. Our fourth grade students did an outstanding job with their performance! Also BATALÁ DURHAM had a stellar performance. BATALÁ is a community-based reggae band in Durham.  I would like to send a huge shout out to Patricia Olivieri, who is a SRE parent and member of BATALÁ.  We also would like to say thank you to our wonderful PTA for collaborating with our staff to support this performance.  You are greatly appreciated! 

EARLY RELEASE

This is a friendly reminder that tomorrow is an early release day and students will be dismissed at 12:15pm.  All transportation changes must be made by 9:00am.  Students may not be signed out after 11:45am.  Afterschool students will be dismissed at the regular time.  Thank you for helping us ensure a smooth dismissal process.

RED RIBBON WEEK

We will celebrate Red Ribbon week to affirm the commitment of making healthy choices.  Please see Red Ribbon spirit week details including:

Monday, October 24                     Pajama Monday (Wear your favorite pajamas)

Tuesday, October 25                    Tie Dye Tuesday (Wear tie-dye clothing)

Wednesday, October 26               Wacky Wednesday (Wear mismatched clothing)

Thursday, October 27                   Throwback Thursday (Wear clothes from the 80s & 90s)

Friday, October 28                        Character Day (Dress as a character from your favorite book)   

KIDZNOTES

Kidznotes Mozart class will begin on Wednesday, October 26.  K-2 Students enrolled in the beginning Kidznotes class (Mozart) will meet on Mondays and Wednesdays in the music room from 2:15-4:15.  Students should be picked up from the bus parking lot. 

PTA MEETING

Our PTA General Body meeting will be held on Thursday, October 27, at 6:30 PM.  The meeting will be held via Zoom. Join the Zoom Meeting at
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/4157317298?pwd=UVJBam8xV0pQV0l1SnBGbzJBOWtldz09

Meeting ID: 415 731 7298
Passcode: V4q2M8 

ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS TUTORING

The ELL Resource Center tutoring has been postponed until November 8 10. If you received a permission form and have not had an opportunity to return it, please return it at your earliest convenience. Additional information will follow. 

PEOPLE ON POINT CELEBRATION & AWARDS

On Friday, October 28, we will celebrate positive behavior, attendance, growth and academic achievement. We are returning to an in-person awards ceremony for students only. Students who have met their Dojo point total goal will attend the Glow and Groove Celebration.

 

 

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October 16, 2022

 

Morning Drop Off

We have noticed an increase in the number of families dropping their students off in the staff parking lot in the morning, and this is a safety concern. As a reminder, only families with students in Pre-K should park in the staff lot to walk their students up for drop off. We will be distributing special car tags to these families to allow them access to the staff parking lot in the morning. All other families will be required to utilize the carpool line for drop off. Staff members and/or Safety Patrol members assist with the car line each day until 7:45 a.m. If there is no staff or Safety Patrol member there to open your car door, this means your student is tardy. Please park and come inside the front office to sign them in. Thank you for your help in ensuring that all students are able to enter the building in the safest manner possible. 

Hispanic Heritage Festival

Our Hispanic Heritage Festival will be held this Thursday, October 20, from 5:00-6:30. It will consist of a 3-part performance, which includes food, the performance and crafts. Find the schedule HERE. SRE PTA invites you to share a meal with our school community during the event. There will be additional items for sale to families who may not have had the opportunity to pre-order. These additional food items will be on a first come first serve basis. We hope to see everyone there!

4^th Grade Families: Please be reminded to send your child's costume for their performances this week, no later than Tuesday. Each class has specific costume needs. If you have any questions, please follow up with your child’s teacher. On the day of the performance, all students should arrive at school at 4:45. This will allow time for your children to change into their costumes. Each class has a specific schedule for the event, which will be explained once they arrive at 4:45pm. Please check-in with your teacher at the music room to get this information and your child's costume.  

FEMMES+

Our FEMMES+ group will meet on Monday, October 17, from 2:15-3:15.

UNITY DAY

In recognition of Bullying Prevention Month, we will celebrate Unity Day on Wednesday, October 19, by wearing orange to show unity of kindness, acceptance, and inclusion to send a visible message that no child should ever experience bullying. 

RTA TESTING

We will conduct our (RTA) Read to Achieve testing (for select 4th grade students only) on Thursday, October 20. 

EARTHQUAKE DRILL  

SRE will conduct a practice earthquake drill on Friday, October 21 from 10:20-10:30. 

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October 9, 2022

 

Hispanic Heritage Festival

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, we are highlighting South American countries and students are given the opportunity to participate in daily trivia.  We would like to invite you to our Hispanic Heritage Festival on Thursday, October 20 @ 5:00pm. This event is open to all Sandy Ridge families. Food will be available by pre-order only through October 12. Please see order forms that were shared with students on Friday or download yours HERE. The schedule for this event can be found HERE.

Smile Mobile Dentist

This is a friendly reminder that Smile Mobile Dentist will visit Sandy Ridge October 10-12. These visits are optional, and only students who return COMPLETED forms with valid insurance information OR payment attached will be eligible to see the dentist.

Picture Day

Picture day will be held on Friday, October 14. Download and print your order form HERE or pay online. Go to www.strawbridge.net, click "Order Pictures", and enter the following code: FM399246. 

 

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October 2, 2022

We would like to say thank you to all of our families who came out to join us for our “Meeting with the STARS” Title I event. 

In addition, we would like to acknowledge Mr. Carlos Arevalo, who is a parent volunteer who came out to mow our school garden.  We greatly appreciate his support in helping SRE maintain our school garden.  

Lastly, on Wednesday October 5, will be a Teacher Workday and there will be no school for students. 

 

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September 26, 2022

 

Durham Public Schools mandates all schools to participate in school-wide emergency practice drills. This requirement includes fire, severe weather, and lockdown simulations that prepare students and staff for any emergency that may occur during the instructional day.

Today, September 26, we practiced our highest level of security alert in an announced lockdown drill. This drill was conducted by school administration. Our staff is working diligently to ensure the safety of our students every day. This letter is to inform you of the drill conducted today. There are a few areas that we will work together to improve. Therefore, we will make plans to conduct another practice drill soon. Please know that we will continue to take every measure to ensure the safety of our children. Thank you for your continued support of Sandy Ridge.

 

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September 25, 2022

Kindergarten Health Assessments & Immunization Record

This is a friendly reminder that the state of North Carolina requires all Kindergarten students to submit the following within the first thirty days of school: a Health Assessment Form (completed by a medical provider) and an up-to-date immunization record. The deadline is quickly approaching. Therefore, I would like to encourage you to contact Mrs. Maria Rodriquez, who serves as our data manger. 

Battle of the Books Interest Meeting

We will host our Battle of the Books interest meeting tomorrow, September 26, from 2:15-3:00. We would love for all 4th and 5th graders who are interested to come and join us!  The meeting will be held in the media center. Students who join BOB will have the opportunity to work on small group projects and compete at the district level if chosen. 

FEMMES+

Our FEMMES+ group will meet tomorrow, September 26, from 2:15-3:15.  Student dismissal will take place in the back of the school at the bus parking lot. (Registration is required)

Early Release

Students will be released at 12:15 on Wednesday, September 28. I would like to kindly request that all transportation changes be made prior to 9:00am.

Meeting with the STARS

You are cordially invited to attend our Title I event titled, “Meeting with the STARS.” This event will be held on Thursday, September 29 at 5:30pm. This will be an opportunity to meet with administration to learn more about how we utilize Title I to support student achievement.  You will also meet with your child’s teacher to discuss curriculum, data protocols, and classroom updates. Please see the schedule included:

5:30-6:00-Meet with Administration (Location: Gym)

6:00-6:30-Meet with the Teacher (Location: Classroom)

*Light refreshments will be served

Progress Reports

Progress reports will be distributed on Friday, September 30.  However, progress reports will be made available early to families who attend the “Meeting with the Stars” Title I event. 

 

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September 18, 2022

 

PTA Support

I would like to say thank you to all of our families who attended our virtual PTA meeting last week.  I’m very grateful to all of our families who showed interest in volunteering to support our PTA, students, and staff.  Your support is greatly appreciated!

Ident-A-Kid

We are excited to announce that our Ident-a-kid computer system is up and running.  This system will be utilized for late check-in, early dismissal, and visitor management.  This is a friendly reminder that if your child is late, we kindly ask that you exit your car and sign your child in.  Thank you for supporting us with this. 

Meeting with the STARS

You are cordially invited to attend our Title 1 event, “Meeting with the STARS.”  This event will be held next Thursday, September 29, at 5:30pm.  This will be an opportunity to meet with administration to learn more about how we utilize Title I to support student achievement.  You will also meet with your child’s teacher to discuss curriculum, data protocols, and classroom updates.  Please see the schedule included:

5:30-6:00- Meet with Administration (Location: Gym)

6:00-6:30- Meet with the Teacher (Location: Classroom)

*Light refreshments will be served

Car Rider Late Pickup

Our dismissal is at 2:15, at which time our car rider pickup begins.  If you arrive after 2:35, you must come in to sign a late pickup form.  Once you accrue 5 late pickups we will ask that you schedule a meeting with the school social worker to determine if there is a solution.  If, for any reason, you are planning to be late, please contact the main office and your child’s teacher on dojo.  I appreciate your understanding with this matter.  

 

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September 15, 2022

Save the Date!

We are excitedly preparing for a year full of STAR performances and other fun events. Mark your calendar now so you don’t miss out! If your student needs to wear anything specific for a performance they are participating in, you will be notified as soon as we have that information. Please note, these dates are subject to change. Check our school website calendar for the most up-to-date information regarding events and happenings.

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September 4, 2022

 

I am pleased to announce that, based on newly released data, Sandy Ridge ranked in North Carolina’s top 20 percent for academic growth during the 2021-2022 school year.  We are very proud of our hardworking staff and students, who strived to make this happen! 

Labor Day Holiday

Please be reminded that there is no school tomorrow, Monday, September 4, in observance of Labor Day. 

Carpool

I would like to say thank you to all of the families for doing such a wonderful job following carpool expectations. This is a friendly reminder that no students can be picked up from the main entrance following dismissal. We are working to keep our students safe and to reduce outgoing afternoon traffic from the staff parking lot. 

Early Dismissal

We have noticed a peak in students being signed out of school early.  As you know, we value and strive to protect daily instructional time.  Instruction begins at 7:45 and ends at 2:15.  Please be mindful of picking students up early on a consistent basis.  I hope you enjoy the remainder of your evening and we will look forward to seeing you on Tuesday.

Beginning of Grade Testing- 3rd Grade

The BOG3 reading test establishes a baseline measure of beginning third-grade students' reading skills. Students who score an achievement level 3 or higher on the BOG3 reading test demonstrate reading proficiency appropriate for third-grade students, which satisfies the requirements of the Read to Achieve legislation.  3rd grade students will take the BOG3 on Thursday, September 7.  Please make your best effort to ensure that students get plenty of rest, are present, and on time for school. 

mCLASS Testing

mCLASS is a universal screener that measures the development of reading skills of all students in grades K-3 and select 4th grade students through two main assessments: Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills (DIBELS) and the Text Reading Comprehension (TRC) assessments.  The mCLASS testing window will open this week.  All K-3 students will complete their beginning of year assessment between Tuesday, September 6th and Thursday, September 22. 

 

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August 28, 2022

 

We are so excited about beginning the 2022-23 school year!  It was so great to see so many families during Open House.  We are looking forward to this being a great school year!  During Open House, we distributed over 200 carpool tags. 

We are planning to make special accommodations for kindergarten families and students this year.  All kindergarten families are welcome to walk their students to their classrooms on the first day of school.  There will be staggered entry for kindergarten, so this will apply to families who have students beginning on Tuesday as well.  Pre-pandemic, we allowed all families to walk their students into the building for the first week of school.  However, in order to adhere to safety protocols, we are no longer permitting families to walk students into the building.  I would like to request that all families remain in the car during the am/pm carpool.  This will also improve traffic flow.  Old Oxford Rd is usually a very busy highway in the morning, so you are encouraged to consider making a right turn out of the school parking lot in the morning to reduce your wait time. Traffic flow is important and we would like to encourage you to pull up to the curb and line your cars up accordingly.  Once your car comes to a complete stop, students will unload from the passenger side of the vehicle.  We would like to discourage students from exiting the driver’s side of the car because this presents safety issues.  In the event that this does occur, your child will be escorted around the car by an SRE staff member.  

Special accommodation has been made for Pre-K parent drop off and pick-up. So all Pre-K families are welcome to park in the staff parking lot and walk their children up to the media center each morning.  Student pick-up will be located in the same location.  We are working diligently to ensure that every aspect of Sandy Ridge is exceptional, so I would like to request your assistance with this matter.  All students will be grouped outside according to grade level in the front of the school in a designated area.  Please hang your carpool tags and have them visible during pm carpool.    

The morning carpool drop-off time is 7:15-7:40.  This will give students time to get breakfast and report to class on time.  Instruction will begin promptly at 7:45.  Students who arrive after 7:45 will be considered tardy.  If you arrive after 7:45, you will need to park your car and walk your child to the front entrance and sign them in.   

Lastly, in the afternoon, we will also have a designated staff member call student names to make students aware that their parents have arrived.  Again, it is important to have your carpool tag visible to staff daily.  Once the name has been called, the student will stand in the color-coded loading zones. 

 

Please see ways you can assist:

1. Ensure that your car tag is hanging and visible to staff.  
2. Please remain in your car during carpool and retrieve your child from the loading zone.
3. Please refrain from parking in the front of the school at the end of the school day.
4. If you arrive early (before 7:15), please stop and wait behind the stop sign.
5. Once your child’s name has been called, we would like to request that you pull up to the color coded loading zone to retrieve your child. 
6. Please remain in the carpool line and follow traffic.  (There will be someone directing traffic)
7. Please take an active role in assisting us with protecting instructional time in the afternoons by allowing students to complete a full school day.  Students who are checked out early in the afternoons miss imperative instruction and are at risk of truancy related matters. Transportation changes should not be made after 11:00 (9:00 on Early Release days) and students may not be signed out after 1:45 (11:45 on Early Release Days).
8. If your child walks home from school, please contact your child’s teacher and they will be given a walker tag.  All walkers will be dismissed with bus riders and walk home from the back parking lot.  No cars are permitted in the bus lot during afternoon dismissal.
9. Please be prepared to experience longer wait times in the event of inclement weather and early release days.

Ultimately, our goal is to conduct a safe dismissal plan that will be time-efficient and effective.  We appreciate your assistance with the implementation of this plan.  Thank you for the shared commitment to the safety of Sandy Ridge students.