Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

 

 

April 9, 2021: Issue 29

Traeger Tales 

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HANDLING HURT FEELINGS

Peer relationships can sometimes be difficult for elementary-age children. Friendships and peer alliances often change as a result of varying maturity levels and changing interests. Shifting relationships, or the end of friendships, can be hurtful, especially for the child who didn’t initiate the change.

Here’s how you can help your child deal with hurt feelings.

• Encourage your child to talk about what has happened, and about how he/she is feeling. Listen, provide support, and acknowledge that your child’s feelings are valid.
• Help your child deal with his/her feelings and keep things in perspective. For instance, if your child says he/she feels bad because a friend didn’t want to play at recess and is afraid that no one likes him/her, you might talk about the things you see that make your child fun and like-able. You might also assure your child that things will likely be better tomorrow.
• Remind your child how special you think he/she is, and let your child know that you will always be there for support.
• Children with a good self-image are less affected by social ups and downs. Help your child develop his/her talents and interests, and look for ways to build your child’s self- esteem and confidence.

 ~Mrs. G. 😃

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Wisconsin Forward Exam testing will begin soon.  Please ensure that your child is in school on their scheduled testing days. Makeups are challenging to schedule and result in lost instructional time.

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You can order Spirit Wear from Fourfold Vinyl & Boutique!  Follow the LINK to order!

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Traeger Elementary Has HEART!

Our Kids Heart Challenge is in full-swing and it’s so great to see our students being heart-healthy.

So far we have 60 students who have taken the online challenge to: Move More, Be Kind or Choose Water.

 We need 140 more students to take the challenge and we will get a BONUS $500 in PE equipment!

 Take the challenge TODAY at http://www2.heart.org/goto/traegerelementary!

Earn Agent KHC when you raise $150+ online.

Top classes will get bonuses and we have all-school bonus levels, too!

Thank you for being a Heart Hero!

If you are an E-academy family and would still like to participate, you can contact Mrs. Wara for more information (heidi.wara@oshkosh.k12.wi.us) 

All About Family Dinner Book Club

Family Dinner Book Club invites you to share a great story, great art, great conversation, and great food each month. This month we are celebrating Earth Day, with the featured book being Alba and the Ocean Clean-Up.

Jodie has created conversation starters and a book list, which you can get here:

https://growingbookbybook.com/books-to-celebrate-earth.../

Laura shares a printable planner of activity ideas.

https://www.sunnydayfamily.com/.../earth-day-free...

And Sarah shares a perfect picnic menu.

https://chefsarahelizabeth.com/.../alba-and-the-ocean.../

Also, follow along with us on our Facebook page!  We love to see pictures of your special dinner.  Plus, we share extra materials to support your book club each month.

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On Thursday, April 29 from 6:00-7:00 we will be holding a virtual family night!  Watch for more information to come!

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Culver's on Westowne is supporting Carl Traeger PSC on Monday April 12th. The fundraiser has changed from past years. You can now support our school during lunch or dinner but you must bring in the flyer for them to count your order towards the fundraiser total. You can share the flyer with family and friends but you must bring in a printed version when ordering.  Flyers went home this week, but here is a LINK to print your own!  Contact CarlTPSC@gmail.com with questions.  

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• April 12
  • PSC Culver's Fundraiser 11am-2pm or 5-7pm
• April 14
  • Early Release No 4K Classes
  • School Colors Day
• April 29
  • Virtual Family Night 6-7pm

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Follow the LINK to the OASD Community Events page.  New information and opportunities are added regularly!

PSC Minutes  

Thursday 4/8/2021, 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Who are we?

PSC Board Members

• President: Nichole Casper
• Vice President: Holly Emons
• Co-Secretaries: Heather Swenson & Jessica Graf
• Treasurer: Jen Sorensen

1. Budget Update - Jen S. 

   1. Adventure Games - $146 made. 

2. Fundraiser Update 

   1. Poco Pizza - Jen S. 

   2. Culver's Fundraiser is Monday the 12th. Have to bring in papers to get funds for Traeger. This is different from past years. Before you could just go and we got a total amount for a time period. Nichole is looking into adding a link to the flyer and sending it to families  teachers. 

   3. Arbys - Jen B. -  Possibly next year! Jen will not be here next year. 

   4. Boxtops & Loaves for Learning - Jen B. 

      1. Need new chair for next year. Most are digital now. We need to push parents to scan them digitally, we are not getting much digitally. You can assign teachers on the app so we can maybe do a contest next year. We will put on the agenda for Sept. 

3. Virtual Bingo Family Fun Night - Jess 

   1. Went smoothly. Families that participated had a great time. 

4. 5th Grade GIft/Advancement 

   1. Advancement will have to be virtual. More details will come out later. Catherine Liebergen and Erin A. will help chair the 5th grade gift. Heather Swenson offered help as well. 

5. Bike to School Week - May 10-14

   1. Bike, scooter, anything without a motor. 

   2. Some concern over students that can’t ride bikes and or do not have bikes. 

   3. Alicia Alsberg will look into a program that helps get bikes to kids. Then we can publicize that as soon as possible. We will advertise on FB and Traeger Tales. 

   4. Nichole is checking into getting a bike from Wheel and Sprocket. 

   5. Mrs. Wara will keep us posted if she needs help. She will also check into West about Mascots or HS volunteers to ride with kids. 

6. Monthly Goody Bags for Teachers

   1. Will do a sign up next year for monthly good bags. We will need to add it to the budget next year. Parents can sign up for a month that works for them. 

7. Staff Appreciation - May 3-7

   1. Becky and Emma are organizing this year. Next year we will need a new chair. 

   2. Mary Geffers is going to help try and raise more money for a meal to be brought in. 

8. Survey for teacher needs

   1. Idea - sign up for recess duty. Mrs. Trebiatowski and Mrs. Miller tried looking into this but it is difficult to put together. Volunteers need training and background checks. Maybe next year? Nichole is working on a survey for teachers to see what they need. 

9. Suggestions/Ideas? 

   1. Wish list for teachers - Alicia A. 

   2. Supply Closet (School Supplies) Needs? - Mrs. Sopata. Teachers will look into needs.

   3. Schedule for PSC Meetings - Heather S.  will put a survey out to board on which days work. 

   4. End of Year DJ Dance Party - Do it by grade level and hire DJ longer. We should move to 2.5 hours instead of 1 hour. Food Service can provide popsicles they are cheaper and healthier. Mandy Stein checking into DJ and Popsicles. 

10. Motion to Adjourn - Sheri Schmidt, 2nd Motion - Mandy Stein 

Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

 

 

March 26, 2021: Issue 29

Traeger Tales 

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showing appreciationThere is no doubt that the pandemic has impacted us in ways that we could never have imagined.  Here at Traeger, we often talk about the silver linings that we have found amid the stormy clouds.  One silver lining is that we have had access to AMAZING professional learning!  We have the ability to attend national conferences from the convenience of our own homes.  Last Saturday, I attended the Teachers College Reading and Writing Project Saturday Reunion.  The project is based at Columbia University and all the sessions were virtual due to the pandemic.  Typically you have to go to New York City to attend the conference.  

The opening keynote for the conference was entitled Social and Emotional Learning During a Pandemic: From Research to Practice by Marc Brackett.  Marc Brackett is Founder and Director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and a professor in the Child Study Center of Yale University. He is one of the world’s leading experts on helping teachers and children develop strategies for emotional well-being in ways that support learning, creativity, decision making, and performance.  

Marc shared some of his latest research with us.  Marc asked teachers all over the country how they are feeling while teaching during the pandemic.  He took their responses and created a word cloud.  Responses that are given multiple times result in a larger font.  The most often cited response will appear the largest.

The number one emotion teachers are feeling right now is anxiety.  Many other feelings were common such as fear, stress, worry, overwhelmed, etc.  It is clear that teachers have a lot going on right now.  

Then, Marc then asked teachers how they want to feel.

The number one thing educators want right now is to feel appreciated.  Related emotions like valued, respected, and supported are also stand out.  We know our wonderful Traeger families appreciate all our staff do.  I have a big favor to ask.  Can you reach out and let them know it?  This includes our paraprofessionals, office staff, classroom teachers, special education staff, nurses, specialists-everyone who works in our building! Whether it is a thank you note, a gratitude email, or a letter from a student, your words matter. Our teachers hold onto those words during difficult times. Your words of appreciation keep them going in ways that I can’t.  Please let them know that you notice how hard they are working to make each day a great day for your most precious children as they learn and grow in their care. Let’s help them finish strong as we enter the last quarter of the year! ~Mrs. G. 😃

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March Madness Tournament of Books

Families, we need your help! For the past month we have had our March Madness Tournament of Books. 16 picture books have been battling it out and we are now down to our final two. We need your help to vote on your favorite. With your family, watch both books and then vote on your favorite by April 5. Thanks for participating in the Traeger March Madness!

Click here to find the books and link to vote.

During the week of Spring Break you can shop at Adventure Games & Hobby and support Carl Traeger Elementary.

A portion of all Haba and Gamewright purchases from March 28th-April 3rd will be donated to Carl Traeger PSC. On Wednesday there will also be an Open Game Night where staff will be happy to show you how to play games from their game library. 

Invite friends and family to shop, there are over 60 different games that will support our school! Get a board game to stop boredom during spring break! We will also have Teacher Wish List games - you can purchase a game for a Carl Traeger classroom. Contact CarlTPSC@gmail.com with questions.  

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Culver's on Westowne is supporting Carl Traeger PSC on Monday April 12th. The fundraiser has changed from past years. You can now support our school during lunch or dinner but you must bring in the flyer for them to count your order towards the fundraiser total. You can share the flyer with family and friends but you must bring in a printed version when ordering.  Flyers will go home after break, but here is a LINK to print your own!  Contact CarlTPSC@gmail.com with questions.  

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Traeger Way Bucket Filling

Starting on Monday, April 5, classes will once again be recognized for following the Traeger Way.  As a way to review and practice our school-wide expectations, staff members will be naming and noticing classrooms that follow the Traeger Way by being respectful, responsible, safe, and trustworthy.  Classes will receive rain drops to add to their class bucket which will be displayed in the cafeteria.  Classes will receive a rainbow and an entry to win an ice cream party for every 10 rain drops that they receive between April 5 and April 16.  There will be an ice cream party awarded at the K/1, 2/3, and 4/5 grade levels. 

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Help Light It Up Blue for Autism Awareness

Every year, people from around the world join together in support of Autism Awareness Month by lighting up their communities or wearing blue. Join us on April 5 as we Light it Up Blue at Traeger!

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Wisconsin Forward Exam testing will begin soon.  Please ensure that your child is in school on their scheduled testing days. Makeups are challenging to schedule and result in lost instructional time.

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Yearbooks can be ordered at the LINK through March 31.  The cost for a yearbook is $14.00.  Yearbooks will be delivered to school in late May.

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PSC Agenda/Minutes - Virtual Meeting LINK

Thursday 4/8/2021, 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Who are we?  PSC Board Members

• President: Nichole Casper
• Vice President: Holly Emons
• Co-Secretaries: Heather Swenson & Jessica Graf
• Treasurer: Jen Sorensen

1. Budget Update - Jen S. 

2. Fundraiser Update 

   • Poco Pizza - Jen S. 

   • Eatons Fundraiser - Erin A. 

   • Spirit Wear - Nichole

   • Arbys - Jen B. 

   • Marcos - Jess G. 

   • Boxtops & Loaves for Learning - Jen B. 

   • Need new chair for next year

3. Virtual Bingo Family Fun Night - Jess 

4. 5th Grade Gift/Graduation - 

5. Bike to School Week - May 10-14

6. Monthly Goody Bags for Teachers

7. Staff Appreciation - May 3-7

   • Lunch ideas: Lunch Box $9 a person (local business)

   • Chairs

8. Survey for teacher needs

   1. - sign up for recess duty

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• March 29-April 2
  • Spring Break
  • Adventure Games Fundraiser
• April 5
  • School Resumes
  • Wear blue for Autism Awareness
• April 6
  • Tri-County Community Dental Clinic for participating students
• April 12
  • PSC Culver's Fundraiser 11am-2pm or 5-7pm
• April 14
  • Early Release No 4K Classes
  • School Colors Day

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Follow the LINK to the OASD Community Events page.  New information and opportunities are added regularly!

Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

 

 

March 19, 2021: Issue 28

Traeger Tales 

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HOW TO REALLY LOVE A CHILD

The end of March is near!! The longer days and warmer sunshine are pleasant reminders that spring is just around the corner. With the “dog days” of winter behind us, it is time to refocus on this opportunity for renewal. I have inserted a poem which I find inspirational, and most importantly, a great reminder of how simple it is to truly LOVE a child. Enjoy!!

How to Really Love a Child

Be there. Say yes as often as possible. Let them bang on pots and pans. If they’re crabby, put them in water. If they’re unlovable, love yourself. Realize how important it is to be a child. Go to a movie theatre in your pajamas. Read books out loud with joy. Invent pleasures together. Remember how really small they are. Giggle a lot.

Surprise them. Say no when necessary. Teach feelings. Heal your own inner child. Learn about parenting. Hug trees together. Make loving safe. Bake a cake and eat it with no hands. Go find elephants and kiss them. Plan to build a rocketship. Imagine yourself magic. Make lots of forts with blankets. Let your angel fly. Reveal your own dreams. Search out the positive. Keep the gleam in your eye. Encourage silly. Plant licorice in your garden. Open up. Stop yelling. Express your love. A lot. Speak kindly. Paint their tennis shoes. Handle with caring. Children are miraculous. By Sark  ~Mrs. G. 😃

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Help Light It Up Blue for Autism Awareness

Every year, people from around the world join together in support of Autism Awareness Month by lighting up their communities or wearing blue. Join us on April 5 as we Light it Up Blue at Traeger!

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Online registration for the 2021 Oshkosh Area School District (OASD) Summer School program is be available through the Infinite Campus (IC) Parent/Student Portal. Online registration will remain open until March 26, 2021.  Follow the LINK to the course guide.

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Yearbooks can be ordered at the LINK through March 31.  The cost for a yearbook is $14.00.  Yearbooks will be delivered to school in late May.

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Wisconsin Forward Exam testing will begin soon.  Please ensure that your child is in school on their scheduled testing days. Makeups are challenging to schedule and result in lost instructional time.

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March 16th, 2021

Dear Parent or Guardian:

Carl Traeger Elementary is in partnership with you regarding your child’s personal safety. REACH Counseling works in conjunction with the Oshkosh Area School District to provide classroom lessons on protective behaviors.  A protective behaviors classroom lesson will be presented in your child’s classroom that includes information about child sexual abuse. It is an extension of what is covered in classroom counseling and is a part of the district’s school counseling class curriculum.  This year, protective behaviors lessons will take place during a two week time frame. Grades 3-5 will have their lessons the week of March 22nd and kindergarten through second grade will have their lessons the week of May 3rd. A reminder letter will be sent out to K-2 families prior to those lessons. See the schedule on the next page for exact times and dates for your child’s presentation. 

Students will be encouraged to identify parents or other trusted adults they can talk to about relationships or if they are being teased, bullied or abused. Students will also be taught how to communicate assertively about how one is being treated and/or about what one needs. They will learn and practice refusal skills (clear "no" statement, walk away, repeat refusal) and most importantly learn they could never be at fault in cases of abuse. 

Parents and guardians are invited to take part in this lesson either through virtually attending the presentation or discussing the topic with their child at home. We are unable to invite caregivers in this year to watch the presentations in-person with the class but we can have you attend virtually. If you have further questions regarding protective behaviors, or would like to virtually attend your child’s lesson, please contact me at (920)424-0221, ext.1226. 

Sincerely,

Miss Heideman, School Counselor                           
kaelee.heideman@oshkosh.k12.wi.us

 

Mrs. Garrison-Bruden, Principal

brenna.garrison-bruden@oshkosh.k12.wi.us

 

 

 

Protective Behavior Schedule

Carl Traeger Elementary

Presentations will consist of a 30 minute lesson. Reach will be facilitating some of the lessons virtually and Ms. Heideman will be facilitating others in-person. K-2 lessons will be taught the week of May 3rd and an additional letter will go out to families prior to that week.

Monday, March 22nd

10:00-10:30 Amel (4/5) 

11:00-11:30 Kordus (4)

11:30-12:00 Wolff (4)

12:00-12:30 Lepper (2/3) 

 

Thursday, March 25th

8:00-8:30 Trebiatowski (3)

2:00-2:30 Purtell (5)

 

Friday, March 26th

9:00-9:30 Branson (3)

11:30-12:00 Gustafson (3)

1:30-2:00 Nyman (5)

 

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• March 22
  • Wear blue and yellow for Down Syndrome Awareness
• March 29-April 2
  • Spring Break
• April 5
  • Wear blue for Autism Awareness
• April 6 and 8
  • Tri-County Community Dental Clinic for participating students

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Follow the LINK to the OASD Community Events page.  New information and opportunities are added regularly!

Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

 

 

March 12, 2021: Issue 27

Traeger Tales 

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Planning for the 2021-2022 School Year

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Class lists are created with the belief that student needs are best met through heterogeneous/mixed groups that take into consideration such variables as student numbers, boy/girl ratios, student behaviors, and achievement levels. The services of our special education teachers and other academic specialists also impact a student’s placement. As a result, requests for classroom placements are usually not necessary.

The talents of our teachers at Traeger Elementary are diverse. Matching teaching and learning styles requires appropriate knowledge of both the learner and the teacher. In addition, OASD Board Policy 434 charges us with the important task of creating balanced classes. It also includes this statement in the Rule:

“Parent/guardian request for assignment of students to specific teachers prior to receiving notice of

placement will be carefully limited to assure an equal opportunity for all students.”

The staff at Traeger Elementary firmly believes in an equal opportunity for all students. We will again utilize the process that was used in the past for classroom placements, considering requests only after balanced classes are first constructed for the upcoming school year.

If parents still would like to submit a request, they must base the request upon a legitimate need of the student, not upon teacher popularity or rumor. Recommendations of other parents are not educational reasons for requesting a teacher. The teacher who may work well with your child’s needs does not necessarily possess the same instructional style that was important for your neighbor’s child or even a brother or sister.

If a parent has an educational reason to support a classroom placement, the following guidelines should be followed:

• Please submit a Request for Specific Teacher of Class Prior to Assignment form, stating the reasons why such a placement is important for your child's education. Forms are available in the office.

• All recommendations should be received in the office no later than Friday, April 9. No requests received after this date will be honored.

The staff at Traeger Elementary is charged with the significant task of creating balanced classes to contribute to the learning environment for ALL students. When parent requests conflict with that goal, honoring the request may not be possible. Due to the need to balance classes, distribute learning abilities, place students together in workable groups, and numerous other variables that must be considered, we are unable to guarantee that requests will be honored. All families will be notified of their child’s classroom placement in August, 2021.

We appreciate our parents as partners in their child’s education. Classroom placements are a very difficult task for our school each year. Thank you for your understanding of the magnitude of this task and its challenges.

~Mrs. G. 😃

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All About Family Dinner Book Club

Family Dinner Book Club invites you to share a great story, great art, great conversation, and great food each month. This month's selection is Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History.

Jodie has prepared conversation starters and compiled a book list of  books about women to get your Family Book Club started. You can get them here.     ---->GET THE BOOK LIST AND CONVERSATION STARTERS

Laura shares a printable planner of activity ideas.--->SEE IT

And, Sarah has a themed menu with recipes from women bloggers to go with the book.--->GET THE MENU

Also, follow along with us on our Facebook page!  We love to see pictures of your special dinner.  Plus, we share extra materials to support your book club each month.

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A note from Mrs. Miller media specialist

March Digital Citizenship Topic: Communicating Online

Soon after kids start reading and writing, they often begin interacting with others online. Whether they're chatting within games or texting family members, kids need the skills to interact respectfully. These skills will help kids -- and the people they're communicating with -- have positive experiences online. Click here for 4 tips!

Digital Citizenship is teaching students how to be respectful, responsible, safe, and trustworthy when using technology.

Books, books, books!

Please look for library books at home and send those back! Thank you!

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Carl Traeger PSC is hosting a Virtual Bingo Night on Thursday March 18th at 5:30PM. We would love for you to join us! Registration is required by March 14th to play. To learn more and register use this link: https://forms.gle/o1ZwtjPdJWMJ43QJ6

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March 21 marks World Down Syndrome Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about Down syndrome and celebrating individuals around the world living with the genetic condition. According to the World Down Syndrome Day website, the date for WDSD being the 21st day of the 3rd month was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome.  We will show our support for students with Down Syndrome by wearing blue and yellow on March 22.

Online registration for the 2021 Oshkosh Area School District (OASD) Summer School program is be available through the Infinite Campus (IC) Parent/Student Portal. Online registration will remain open until March 26, 2021.  Follow the LINK to the course guide.

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Yearbooks can be ordered at the LINK through March 31.  The cost for a yearbook is $14.00.  Yearbooks will be delivered to school in late May.

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Thank you to everyone for helping our morning drop off and pick up run safely and as efficiently as possible given the high volume of traffic!  We appreciate all the patience and kindness you show to our students, staff, and families.  We ask that you extend this to our neighbors as well.  The business across the street from us, Landscape Solutions, should not be used as a turn around.  The have put out cones to remind us.  Please do not move the cones to access their property.

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Parent Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

 

Follow the link for information!

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• March 17
  • Wearin' O'the Green Theme Day
• March 18
  • PSC Bingo Night 5:30-7:00pm
• March 22
  • Wear blue and yellow for Down Syndrome Awareness
• March 29-April 2
  • Spring Break
• April 6 and 8
  • Tri-County Community Dental Clinic for participating students

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Follow the LINK to the OASD Community Events page.  New information and opportunities are added regularly!

PSC Agenda/Minutes - Virtual Meeting      Thursday 3/11/2021, 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Who are we?

PSC Board Members

• President: Nichole Casper
• Vice President: Holly Emons
• Co-Secretaries: Heather Swenson & Jessica Graf
• Treasurer: Jen Sorensen

1. Budget Update - Jen S. 

   1. Jen shared PSC financials - what we have and what we have made. Little fundraisers are helping make a difference with losing the bigger fundraisers this year! Last summer we were budgeting a large negative budget and now we have a very small loss but MUCH better. Thank you to everyone! 

2. Treasurer & VP Board Position Elections

   1. Treasurer- Nominations were opened and Alicia Alsberg was nominated.  Motion to close nominations and cast a unanimous ballot for  Alica Alsberg for Treasurer  by Jacqueline Trebiatowski, second by Nichole Casper.  Motion carried. 

   2. Vice President - Nominations were opened and Holly Emons was nominated.   Motion to close nominations and cast a unanimous ballot for Hooly Emons for Treasurer by Jen Sorensen, second by Nichole Casper.  Motion carried.

3. Fundraiser Update 

   1. Poco Pizza/Schoolhouse B Goods - Jen S. 

      1. Poco Pizza has not responded to communication

      2. Schoolhouse B Goods - not a good fit for a larger fundraiser. 

   2. Eatons Fundraiser - Erin A. 

      1. Spoke with Michelle (owner). Good profit, no cost. Possibly in May. Will bring up in April. 

   3. Adventure Games - Jess 

      1. Spring Break week. In-person try game night on Wednesday of that week. Will be promoted next week. We get a % back from items purchased that week. Teachers can make a game wish list. 

   4. Culvers - Jess  

      1. Drive through and ordering ahead. Limited dine in. April 12th 5-7pm. No staff or help needed. Jess will promote on Facebook. 

   5. Raise Craze - Jess https://raisecraze.com/

      1. Pledges donated online for students. Students do kindness in return for pledges.  $10 pledge - Raise Craze takes $1, you get 90%. No minimum or sign up fee. Need 1 staff member to showcase acts of kindness in a physical way (thermometer or graph), 1 parent to promote on facebook, teachers to advertise to families.  Jess will chair. Possibly September next year. 

   6. Boosterthon - Nichole C. - Moved to next year.

   7. Spirit Wear - We will have stock in the office for basic designs and sizes.  

   8. Herd Family Night- Holly 

      1. We put a $100 deposit down for the 2021 season. We can get a deposit back or we can go on a priority list for the Nov 2021-March 2022 season. We will go on the list for next year. 

4. Virtual Bingo Family Fun Night - Jess 

   1. We have a small amount of people registered. Still going on. 

5. 5th Grade GIft/Graduation - 

   1. April agenda. Final decisions have not been made. Slideshow will happen for sure. 

6. Staff Appreciation - May 3-7

   1. Mary Geffers will reach out volunteers that are taking over. Teacher appreciation gift donations can be sent in with child or venmo. 

7. District PTO update - Nichole

   1. Cancelled all meetings and there will be none for the rest of the year. 

8. Motion to Adjourn - Chris Johnson - 2nd - Jessica Graf

Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

 

 

March 5, 2021: Issue 26

Traeger Tales 

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using values to guide good decisions

Children learn to tie their shoes, read and write, solve math problems, and remember science facts and events in history. Children can also learn to be good people. You can help children learn to be honest, to care about others, and to make good choices by talking about morals, values, and ethics together.

• Morals describe how to be a good person.
• Values guide decisions about what is right and what is wrong.  
• Ethics are rules about what is right or wrong.

what we know:

• Values, morals, and ethics guide decisions — now and in the future.
• Openly talking about family values can help children feel secure (especially if adults are willing to listen when children have different values).

try this:

When you see your child doing something that you value, notice it and tell your child what you saw that was good.  Be specific. Here are some examples:

• “I noticed how kind you were to Ben when you tried to cheer him up.”  (Value: caring)
• “I really appreciated that you were honest with me about what happened at school.”  (Value: honesty)
• “How generous of you to give one of your stuffed animals to Carmen!”  (Value: kind)
• “You figured out all by yourself how to get the homework assignment you missed. That’s what I call resourceful!” (Value: resourceful)

Positive values you might notice include:

• Hard-working
• Creative
• Caring
• Brave
• Kind
• Dependable
• Loyal
• Motivated
• Honest
• Respectful
• Helpful

For fun:

Talk about your family values. Start with the short list above. Then create a digital “family values” photo book with your child. For example, the next time your child works hard on an project for school, take a picture of her holding it and add the photo to your “family values” photo book. Add a label or hashtag to the photo and tell how the value of hard work played a role in finishing the project.

Talking about values helps children learn to feel, think, and act with respect for themselves and for other people.   Source: UW Extension ~Mrs. G. 😃

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Yearbook Orders

Follow this LINK to pre-pay for a yearbook.  This link will be active until March 31.

 

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Online registration for the 2021 Oshkosh Area School District (OASD) Summer School program is be available through the Infinite Campus (IC) Parent/Student Portal. Online registration will remain open until March 26, 2021.  Follow the LINK to the course guide.

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Spring Reminders 

• Our playground is extremely wet and muddy this time of year! Please consider packing a spare set of clothes in your child’s backpack. This may help avoid a phone call to parents at work for dry clothes if a mud or rain puddle is encountered outside.

•  This is the time of year when Sawyer Creek can overflow and be very dangerous with rushing water. If your child uses the bridges and walking paths, please talk with them about not playing near the creek and being safe.

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Carl Traeger PSC is hosting a Virtual Bingo Night on Thursday March 18th. To learn more and register use this link: https://forms.gle/o1ZwtjPdJWMJ43QJ6

 

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Many caregivers ask how they can support their student in spelling, vocabulary and writing.  Follow the LINK to a great video that provides fun, engaging ideas that don't need any technology!

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Dear Caregiver,

Wisconsin state law requires schools to provide staff and students with basic awareness materials to prevent suicide. We are sharing this information with all families through the newsletter so that you are also informed of the suicide warning signs. Please contact me or our school counselor if you have any questions about the information or specific concerns regarding your child.

Sincerely,

Mrs. G.

 

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PSC Agenda/Minutes - Virtual Meeting    LINK to join!

Thursday 3/11/2021, 6:00-7:00 p.m.

 

Who are we?

PSC Board Members

• President: Nichole Casper
• Vice President: Holly Emons
• Co-Secretaries: Heather Swenson & Jessica Graf
• Treasurer: Jen Sorensen

1. Budget Update - Jen S. 

2. Treasurer & VP Board Position Elections

   1. Treasurer

   2. VP

3. Fundraiser Update 

   1. Poco Pizza/Schoolhouse B Goods - Jen S. 

   2. Eatons Fundraiser - Erin A. 

   3. Adventure Games - Jess 

   4. Boosterthon - Nichole C. 

   5. Herd Family Night- Holly 

4. Virtual Bingo Family Fun Night - Jess 

5. Staff Appreciation - May 3-7

6. District PTO update - Nichols

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• March 10
  • School Colors Day
  • Early Release 12:30pm
  • No EC/4K Classes
• March 11
  • Virtual PSC Meeting 6:00pm
• March 18
  • PSC Bingo Night 5:30-7:00pm
• March 22
  • Wear blue for Down Syndrome Awareness
• March 29-April 2
  • Spring Break
• April 6 and 8
  • Tri-County Community Dental Clinic for participating students

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Follow the LINK to the OASD Community Events page.  New information and opportunities are added regularly!

Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

February 26, 2021: Issue 25

Traeger Tales 

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WHAT AM I GOOD AT?

Parents play a huge role in helping children develop healthy self-esteem. Parents are the first positive voice children hear. To build your child’s self-esteem, help them see what skills or activities they do well.

Self-esteem is feeling good about yourself most of the time.

What we know:

Kids notice how they compare to other kids their age. Talk about what they may notice. For example, you may say. “Sometimes it seems like it’s hard for you to read aloud. I’m sure you see kids in school who read easily, even if you don’t think they’re any smarter than you.” This opens the door for your child to talk about it.  It may also encourage your child to talk about what he or she is “smart” at doing.

Kids need to talk about both what they are good at and what is hard for them. A nice way to talk about skills your child is not good at is to give examples from family members. For example, maybe Mom always loses the car keys. Or Grandpa isn’t patient. Talking about those types of family examples is a great way to talk about strengths and weaknesses.

Try this:

Download Fable Vision’s The North Star Smart Stars Survey app. The free app helps children see that there are many ways of learning and to identify their strengths. It also helps children see they can work on skills that are harder for them and get better over time.

For fun:

Read the book “The Dot” by Peter H. Reynolds. This book is about a girl named Vashti who thinks she can’t draw. But, she overcomes her doubts and goes on to inspire others. It may take some time for kids to figure out what they are good at or what things they love to do. Help your child explore those strengths, and give them the time they need to do so. Finding and exploring their passion can build children’s self-esteem.

~Mrs. G.  😃 Source: UW Extension

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Save The Date!  

The PSC will be hosting a virtual Bingo night on March 18 from 5:30-7:00pm!  This will be a FREE family night!  It will be a different format than our traditional bingo night and will be an opportunity for our school community to come together for some fun!  More details to come!

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Online registration for the 2021 Oshkosh Area School District (OASD) Summer School program will be available beginning Monday, March 1, 2021, at 8 a.m. through the Infinite Campus (IC) Parent/Student Portal. Online registration will remain open until March 26, 2021.  Follow the LINK to the course guide.

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Read Across America Week

It is time to celebrate Read Across America! Although this event was started to commemorate Dr. Seuss’s birthday, it has evolved into a celebration that encourages a love for reading. This year, we will be celebrating the power of books as we explore how books can act as mirrors (to see ourselves), windows (to peek into the lives of others) and sliding glass doors (step inside and experience life from a different perspective).

We encourage you to get involved in this celebration by checking out more books that go with each theme day and engage in conversations about what we can learn about others from the stories we read. Check out our theme days below and some great books that celebrate the diversity of the world!

• Monday: Let’s Celebrate You - Dress up day: wear something that celebrates what makes you special. 

Find a book that acts just like a mirror for you. Can you see yourself in the characters or the storyline? What can you learn about yourself from the story?

• Tuesday: Look at Those Who Take Action! - Dress up day: Wear a kind message

Find a book that provides a window into the lives of those who take action to create change. How is your life or the lives of others better because of the action these heroes have taken? What action can you take to make a positive change?

• Wednesday: Celebrate Diverse Authors/Illustrators - Dress up day: Dress like your favorite book character or author

Being mindful of the authors of our children’s books helps us to take a step through that sliding glass door to learn more about the lives of others. What did you learn about the characters and their culture? 

• Thursday: Recognize Different Perspectives - Dress up day: Backwards day

Books provide us the opportunity to step through a sliding glass door to experience life in someone else’s shoes. How have books helped you to experience life from someone else’s perspective? How did that change you or your thinking?

• Friday: Learn about Influential Americans - Dress up day: Dress up like someone who inspires you

Wrap up your week by reading books to learn about influential Americans. What do those that influence you and others have in common? How do others inspire you? 

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Circle Drive Pick Up

Thank you to everyone for moving forward to try and maximize the number of cars that can be loading at one time!  If you can have your family name on a piece of paper on the passenger side dashboard it will help our staff get your child to your vehicle.   Thank you!

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Traeger is proud to partner with the Tri-County Community Dental Clinic to provide dental care to students right at school in their mobile clinic on April 6 and 8!  Participation information went home this week and is due back at school by March 5.  Children must be eligible for free or reduced lunch in order to participate.

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• February 25
• March 1
  • Let’s Celebrate You - Dress up day: wear something that celebrates what makes you special. 
• March 2 
  • Look at Those Who Take Action! - Dress up day: Wear a kind message
• March 3 
  • Celebrate Diverse Authors/Illustrators - Dress up day: Dress like your favorite book character or author
• March 4
  • Recognize Different Perspectives - Dress up day: Backwards day
• March 5

  • Learn about Influential Americans - Dress up day: Dress up like someone who inspires you

• March 10
  • School Colors Day
  • Early Release 12:30pm
  • No EC/4K Classes
• March 11
  • Virtual PSC Meeting 6:00pm
• March 18
  • PSC Bingo Night 5:30-7:00pm
• March 29-April 2
  • Spring Break

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Follow the LINK to the OASD Community Events page.  New information and opportunities are added regularly!

Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

February 19, 2021: Issue 24

Traeger Tales 

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DOES 20 MINUTES OF DAILY READING MAKE A DIFFERENCE? LET’S DO THE MATH!

• Student A reads 20 minutes five nights per week.
• Student B reads only 4 minutes a night...or not at all!

1st: Multiply minutes per night x 5 times each week.

• Student A reads 20 minutes x 5 times a week = 100 minutes/week.
• Student B reads 4 minutes x 5 times a week = 20 minutes/week.

2nd: Multiply minutes per week x 4 weeks each month.

• Student A reads 400 minutes a month.
• Student B reads 80 minutes a month.

3rd: Multiply minutes per month x 9 months/school year.

• Student A reads 3600 minutes in a school year.
• Student B reads 720 minutes in a school year.

Student A practices reading the equivalent of ten whole school days a year.

Student B gets the equivalent of only two school days of reading practice.

By the end of 6th grade, if Student A and Student B maintain these same reading habits,

• Student A will have read the equivalent of 60 whole school days.
• Student B will have read the equivalent of only 12 school days.

One would expect the gap of information retained will have widened considerably and so, undoubtedly, will school performance. How do you think Student B will feel about him/herself as a student?

Think about it: Which student would you expect to...

• Read better?
• Know more?
• Write better?
• Have a better vocabulary?
• Be more successful in school....and in life?

Thank you for supporting reading at home! ~Mrs. G.  😃

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Save The Date!  

The PSC will be hosting a virtual Bingo night on March 18 from 5:30-7:00pm!  This will be a FREE family night!  It will be a different format than our traditional bingo night and will be an opportunity for our school community to come together for some fun!  More details to come!

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PSC Minutes      2/11/21       6:00-7:00 p.m.

Who are we? PSC Board Members

• President: Nichole Casper
• Vice President: Holly Emons
• Co-Secretaries: Heather Swenson & Jess Graf
• Treasurer: Jen Sorensen

 

• Budget Update  - Jen Sorensen

  • Swings need repair- we will use the playground fund to pay for this. 

  • Deposits - 2 Box Tops donations, Coke/UsCellular Fundraiser, Photo Fundraiser ($827), Zaronies, Chocolate Boxes

  • Expenses- None in January 

  • Motion to Approve Budget - Liza, 2nd motion - Alicia

• Nominating Committee for Treasurer and VP - Holly & Jess

  • Jess nominates Alicia Alsberg for Treasurer 

  • Holly for VP? Will put elections for both next month. 

• Citywide PTO Meeting - Nichole Casper

  • Per Nichole - Meetings have been cancelled so no new update at this time.

• Fundraiser Updates -

  • Eatons Fundraiser - you get a card to pay for the pizzas. You give the people the coupon and they get the pizza on their own. We could deliver coupons. Chair for this fundraiser in April: Erin Anderson. Will table for next meeting. 

  • Thunderbird Bakery - Jess - Volunteer heavy fundraiser. They provide order sheets and they bake it.  We have to pick up and divide orders and disperse ourselves. 25% profit.  Will table this for the next meeting.

  • Poco Pizza/Schoolhouse B Goods - Jen S. will speak with Shawn to see if they can do a fundraiser. Will update next month and see if we can get chairs if it sounds like a good fit for us. 

  • Vandewalles Chocolate Bars - Jess  - Ready for pick up. Jess delivering those once picked up. 

  • Adventure Games - Jess - Spring break week!  Will advertise specific dates and details on PSC Facebook as soon it is finalized. 

  • Tamara’s Fundraiser - Per Holly - We will move this to next year. 

• Boosterthon - Nichole Casper

  • Per Nichole - waiting for email response from David (our POC for Boosterthon), so no new updates yet. Will table for next meeting.

• Bingo Night Virtual? - Jess

  • Online site where you can play bingo for free. Mrs. G. would host. Cost - $30 for 500 Bingo Cards. They play online and host spins wheel for numbers. Fun night on March 18th at 5:30 - 7:00pm. Jess will check around to find a partner dinner fundraiser. 

• PSC meeting status - in person/virtual/blended?

  • Keeping it virtual for the rest of the year. 

• Any questions/ideas? - Heather Swenson

  • None

• Motion to Adjourn -  Mary Geffers 

• 2nd Motion - Alicia Alsberg 

Upcoming Events/Any Questions? 

-Next Meeting 3/11/21

-Adventure Games Fundraiser during Spring Break

-Candy Bars getting delivered soon

-VP and Treasurer elections at next meeting

 

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Winter Walk to School Day!

We will be participating in the annual state-wide Winter Walk to School Day on February 24 (weather date March 3). Students who walk to school that day will be eligible for prizes from the Safe Routes to School program! We will have a special Polar Bear Walk and Roll day to help cut down on the greenhouse gas emissions which are harmful to polar bears and the Arctic. Walking to school will help us accomplish this!

Do you live too far away from school for your child to walk? Consider dropping him/her a couple blocks away and letting him/her walk the rest of the way. We have many parents who use the path on Woodstock as a drop off point. Walking up the path does not really meet the concept of walking to school. However, if you drop your child off a block or two from the path that would count!

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Picture retake day is scheduled for Thursday, February 25th, 9:30-1:00.  

There will be a 1 hour window that is reserved strictly for eAcademy students, they are welcome to come from 11:00-12:00.  We are still unable to welcome parents/guardians into our building so please send your eAcademy student in the front doors to make their way to the stage.

STUDENTS THAT NEED TO BE PHOTOGRAPHED:

If students have not been photographed this school year, please be prepared to have a photograph taken on re-take day.  All students must be photographed.  Portraits will be needed for your school’s data base.

STUDENTS THAT WOULD LIKE RE-TAKE PHOTOS:

If you want a re-take of your student’s original portrait, please return the original package in its entirety to the photographer on re-take day.  A replacement package will be printed and delivered to the school with your student’s new image.  If you did not purchase photos from the original picture day and want a re-take, please have the student’s picture taken.

STUDENTS WHO WANT TO ORDER SCHOOL PICTURES FOR THE FIRST TIME:

If you would like to order school pictures for the first time, you can print and use the order form .pdf that is attached or obtain one from the school office.  Just fill out the order form and bring it with you to re-take day.

STUDENTS WHO DID NOT ORDER SCHOOL PICTURES AND WOULD LIKE TO ORDER AT A LATER TIME:

If you do not order your student’s portrait on re-take day, you will still be able to order online for the entire school year.  Approximately 3 weeks after the portrait is taken your student will bring home a proof form with their own secure private gallery password.  Online orders get mailed directly to your home and will include a shipping charge of $4.50.

DELIVERY OF RE-TAKE PORTRAITS:

Re-take photos will be delivered to the school approximately three weeks after the re-take day.

 

Carl Traeger Elementary - School Photo Pre-Pay Option

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• February 24
  • Winter Walk To School Day
  • Polar Bear Walk and Roll Theme Day
• February 25
  • Picture Retakes
• March 10
  • School Colors Day
  • Early Release 12:30pm
  • No EC/4K Classes
• March 11
  • Virtual PSC Meeting 6:00pm
• March 18
  • PSC Bingo Night 5:30-7:00pm

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Follow the LINK to the OASD Community Events page.  New information and opportunities are added regularly!

Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

February 12, 2021: Issue 23

Traeger Tales 

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 NEWBERY AWARD WINNERS

This week we will take a look at the 2021 Newbery award winning books.  The Newbery Medal was named for eighteenth century British bookseller John Newbery. It is awarded annually to the author of the most distinguished contribution to literature for children.

2021 Medal Winner

When You Trap a Tiger, written by Tae Keller. This masterpiece of magical realism is an evocative story of love, loss, and hope that brings Korean folklore to life. Through her halmoni’s tales, Lily learns that with stories we can share our past and shape our future. 

2021 Honor Books

All Thirteen: The Incredible Cave Rescue of the Thai Boys’ Soccer Team, written by Christina Soontornvat.  Soontornvat skillfully describes the dramatic real-life rescue of the Thai Boys’ soccer team in 2018 by highlighting the teamwork of the cave divers and the drilling and medical teams which were crucial for the survival of the coach and the twelve boys. All Thirteen exemplifies superb narrative nonfiction writing.

BOX: Henry Brown Mails Himself to Freedom, written by Carole Boston Weatherford. Weatherford masterfully recounts the true story of Henry “Box” Brown, who shipped himself to freedom in a box. All 51 poems, with the exception of one, are sixains—representing the six sides of a box. The poems are filled with emotional intensity and have implications for the present day. 

Fighting Words, written by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley. Della depends on her fierce older sister Suki, especially after escaping an abusive home. In foster care, though, Suki begins to unravel. Bradley creates a survival story that transcends—addressing the toughest of topics with honesty, hope, and humor. Della’s powerful voice lingers long after the last page is turned. 

We Dream of Space, written by Erin Entrada Kelly. In the days before the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster, the Thomas siblings navigate the dangerous space of middle school and the fractured constellation of their family.  With a deftly constructed 80’s backdrop, Kelly’s realistically imperfect characters struggle to connect, only finding success when they abandon their own lonely orbits. 

A Wish in the Dark, written by Christina Soontornvat. Told in the alternating perspectives of two memorable characters, Pong and Nok, Soontornvat sets this story in the Thai-inspired world of Chattana, where light and dark symbolize contrasts between the rich and the poor. A timeless, yet timely, fantasy that highlights social disparities and the value of friendship and justice. 

 Happy New Readings! ~Mrs. G.  😃

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Picture retake day is scheduled for Thursday, February 25th, 9:30-1:00.  

There will be a 1 hour window that is reserved strictly for eAcademy students, they are welcome to come from 11:00-12:00.  We are still unable to welcome parents/guardians into our building so please send your eAcademy student in the front doors to make their way to the stage.

STUDENTS THAT NEED TO BE PHOTOGRAPHED:

If students have not been photographed this school year, please be prepared to have a photograph taken on re-take day.  All students must be photographed.  Portraits will be needed for your school’s data base.

STUDENTS THAT WOULD LIKE RE-TAKE PHOTOS:

If you want a re-take of your student’s original portrait, please return the original package in its entirety to the photographer on re-take day.  A replacement package will be printed and delivered to the school with your student’s new image.  If you did not purchase photos from the original picture day and want a re-take, please have the student’s picture taken.

STUDENTS WHO WANT TO ORDER SCHOOL PICTURES FOR THE FIRST TIME:

If you would like to order school pictures for the first time, you can print and use the order form .pdf that is attached or obtain one from the school office.  Just fill out the order form and bring it with you to re-take day.

STUDENTS WHO DID NOT ORDER SCHOOL PICTURES AND WOULD LIKE TO ORDER AT A LATER TIME:

If you do not order your student’s portrait on re-take day, you will still be able to order online for the entire school year.  Approximately 3 weeks after the portrait is taken your student will bring home a proof form with their own secure private gallery password.  Online orders get mailed directly to your home and will include a shipping charge of $4.50.

DELIVERY OF RE-TAKE PORTRAITS:

Re-take photos will be delivered to the school approximately three weeks after the re-take day.

 

Carl Traeger Elementary - School Photo Pre-Pay Option

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Winter Walk to School Day!

We will be participating in the annual state-wide Winter Walk to School Day on February 24 (weather date March 3). Students who walk to school that day will be eligible for prizes from the Safe Routes to School program! We will have a special Polar Bear Walk and Roll day to help cut down on the greenhouse gas emissions which are harmful to polar bears and the Arctic. Walking to school will help us accomplish this!

Do you live too far away from school for your child to walk? Consider dropping him/her a couple blocks away and letting him/her walk the rest of the way. We have many parents who use the path on Woodstock as a drop off point. Walking up the path does not really meet the concept of walking to school. However, if you drop your child off a block or two from the path that would count!

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•  February 15
  • No School for Students
• February 18
  • Return to 5 day per week in person learning!
• February 24
  • Winter Walk To School Day
  • Polar Bear Walk and Roll Theme Day
• February 25
  • Picture Retakes

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Follow the LINK to the OASD Community Events page.  New information and opportunities are added regularly!

Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

February 5, 2021: Issue 22

Traeger Tales 

 

February is a great month to take a look at the newest award winning children's books! Recently the American Library Association (ALA) announced the Randolph Caldecott Medal and the John Newbery medal winners! This week I am sharing the Caldecott winners and next week we will look at the Newbery awards.  The Caldecott Medal was named in honor of nineteenth-century English illustrator Randolph Caldecott. It is awarded annually to the artist of the most distinguished American picture book for children.

The 2020 Caldecott Medal Winner is We Are Water Protectors, illustrated by Michaela Goade and written by Carole Lindstrom. Michaela Goade’s vivid, swirling watercolors capture the sacredness of water and amplify Carole Lindstrom’s passionate call to action and celebration of Indigenous ancestry and community.  Rich symbolism and repeating floral patterns appear alongside distinctive colors and atmospheric light to tenderly frame the defiant young protagonist standing up against the real-life horrors of the Dakota Access Pipeline.

2021 Honor Books

A Place Inside of Me: A Poem to Heal the Heart, illustrated by Noa Denmon and written by Zetta Elliott.  Noa Denmon’s strategic use of light/dark colors and urban environments augment a black child's emotional range from joy and then sorrow and anger when he learns news of a shooting, and subsequently hope and love. Community solidarity, representation of Black Lives Matter, and images of cultural icons such as Beyoncé, Malcolm X, and others add to the power of the art.

The Cat Man of Aleppo, illustrated by Yuko Shimizu and written by Irene Latham & Karim Shamsi-Basha.  War-torn Aleppo is given hope from Mohammad Alaa Aljaleel’s humanitarian efforts to care for the deserted cats in the city. Shimizu’s digitally colored black ink images build a powerful sense of place with thoughtful details and varied perspectives, leading us from scenes of desolation to ones of joy and optimism.

Me & Mama, illustrated and written by Cozbi A. Cabrera.  Cozbi A. Cabrera captures a young girl’s adoration for her mother in a series of masterful acrylic paintings that chronicle a day in their lives. Light, texture, and vibrant color imbue each moment with love, telling a universal, yet an exquisitely specific story that centers everyday Black joy.

Outside In, illustrated by Cindy Derby, written by Deborah Underwood.  Cindy Derby’s brilliant use of watercolor, powdered graphite, and dried flower stems soaked in ink beckons young readers to reflect on the outdoors and their place in the world

Happy New Readings! ~Mrs. G.  😃

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Winter Walk to School Day!

We will be participating in the annual state-wide Winter Walk to School Day on February 24 (weather date March 3). Students who walk to school that day will be eligible for prizes from the Safe Routes to School program! We will have a special Polar Bear Walk and Roll day to help cut down on the greenhouse gas emissions which are harmful to polar bears and the Arctic. Walking to school will help us accomplish this!

Do you live too far away from school for your child to walk? Consider dropping him/her a couple blocks away and letting him/her walk the rest of the way. We have many parents who use the path on Woodstock as a drop off point. Walking up the path does not really meet the concept of walking to school. However, if you drop your child off a block or two from the path that would count!

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WELCOME (Back) TO THE PACK

Gina Panske - Building Assistant

This is my eleventh year in the OASD. I've had the great fortune to be a paraprofessional at Traeger Elementary for all these years. I am now transitioning into the role as the building assistant. I’ve been married for 27 years and have four children, ages 24, 23, 19 and 16. I also have a 1-year old puppy named Ruby.  In my free time I love going to our family cottage and spending time with my family and friends.

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A note from Mrs. Miller media specialist

February Digital Citizenship Topic: Digital Footprint

As soon as you share the first photo of your kid, you're establishing their digital footprint. As kids get older and start creating their own content or engaging with others online, it's important for them to understand the tracks they're leaving behind and what those tracks might reveal. Parents can help guide kids toward creating the kind of footprint they can be proud of.  Click here for 5 tips!

Digital Citizenship is teaching students how to be respectful, responsible, safe, and trustworthy when using technology.

Books, books, books!

Please look for library books at home and send those back! Thank you!

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The Oshkosh Public Library is hosting an online tween book club the first Friday of every month. This is for 9-11 year olds. The next meeting is Friday, February 5th.

Fri., Feb. 5 at 4:30 p.m.
The Exact Location of Home by Kate Messner
Kirby "Zig" Zigonski lives for the world of simple circuits, light bulbs, buzzers, and motors. Electronics are so much more predictable than people. So when his dad's visit is canceled with no explanation and his mom seems to be hiding something, Zig turns to his best friend Gianna and a new gizmo--a garage sale GPS unit--for help. Convinced that his dad is leaving clues behind, Zig sets out to search for answers. Following one clue after another, logging mile after mile, Zig soon finds that people aren't always what they seem . . . and sometimes, there's more than one set of coordinates for home.

Brimming with warmth that will capture readers' hearts, The Exact Location of Home is a must read for middle-graders.  

The most exciting thing about this is that on Saturday, February 27th, they are hosting a virtual "meet the author" with Kate Messner! 

Click here for info about the book club.

Click here for info about the virtual author visit.

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All About Family Dinner Book Club

Family Dinner Book Club invites you to share a great story, great art, great conversation and great food each month. This month's selection is A Garden for a Groundhog.

Jodie has created conversation starters and a book list, which you can get here:

Laura shares a printable activity pack.

And Sarah has a garden-themed menu to go with the book.

Also, follow along with us on our Facebook page!  We love to see pictures of your special dinner.  Plus, we share extra materials to support your book club each month.

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Updated OASD Free School Meal Distribution

Update as of Wednesday, February 3: Free school meals will be available at one distribution time and location only. The distribution will be Wednesdays from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. at Oshkosh West High School (main parking lot - enter on Taft Avenue and exit on Eagle Street). Those accessing free meals cannot enter the school parking lot until 4 p.m. to allow students and staff to safely exit the area before the distribution begins.

• Free Family Food Boxes: In addition to a week’s worth of school meals, families will also be able to receive Farm to Family Food Boxes - a partnership with Feeding America. LEARN MORE

NOTE: No school meals will be sent home with students at the end of their in-person learning days at this time. Families looking for additional school meals for virtual learning days are asked to visit the distribution sites on Wednesdays to receive those meals.

Meal Distribution Details:

1. Meals will be distributed for five days at a time and will include a breakfast, lunch, and supper for each day. 

2. Milk will be offered with all meals. 

3. Meals are available and are free to anyone age 18 and under. 

4. Children do not need to be present to receive free meals, a parent/guardian or sibling may pick up meals. 

5. Children do not need to be enrolled in the Oshkosh Area School District to receive free meals. 

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PSC Agenda - Zoom Meeting LINK

2/11/21

6:00-7:00 p.m.

Who are we?  PSC Board Members

• President: Nichole Casper
• Vice President: Holly Emons
• Co-Secretaries: Heather Swenson & Jess Graf
• Treasurer: Jen Sorensen

1. Budget Update  - Jen Sorensen

2. Nominating Committee for Treasurer and VP - Holly & Jess

3. Citywide PTO Meeting - Nichole Casper

4. Pizza Ranch Fundraiser -

5. Tamara’s Fundraiser -

6. Boosterthon - Nichole Casper

7. Bingo Night Virtual? - Jess

8. PSC meeting status - in person/virtual/blended?

Upcoming Events/Any Questions?

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• February 10
  • Early Release
• February 11
  • Classroom Valentine Celebrations
  • PSC Meeting 6:00pm
• February 12 
  • Classroom Valentine Celebrations
• February 15
  • No School for Students
• February 18
  • Return to 5 day per week learning!
• February 24
  • Winter Walk To School Day
  • Polar Bear Walk and Roll Theme Day
• February 25
  • Picture Retakes

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Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

January 29, 2021: Issue 21

Traeger Tales 

GLOBAL SCHOOL PLAY DAY

For the last two years our school has participated in Global School Play Day (GSPD). GSPD has been promoted by Psychology Today and is celebrated at schools around the world. You can learn more about the benefits of unstructured play by visiting the official GSPD website: www.globalschoolplayday.com.  Due to COVID-19 we are not able to observe GSPD at school.  However, on February 3 we are inviting all of our students to spend some time playing at home.  The goal is to have children engage in extended play without adult intervention or technology-no screens or batteries allowed!  Here are some ideas of things that could be used for play:

• Favorite Toys
• Legos, blocks, cardboard boxes, etc.
• Dress-Up
• Puppets
• Stuffed Animals
• Board Games
• Puzzles
• Sports equipment

Though play day should be unstructured, it may be supervised by adults.  Kids always love this day and want more.  The beauty there is lots of time to play at home!

“You can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation.” ~Plato

~Mrs. G.  😃

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WELCOME TO THE PACK

Elizabeth Morgan-Meckelberg - Student Teacher

I would like to introduce myself to you and your children. My name is Elizabeth Morgan-Meckelberg, the students will be calling me Ms. Morgan-Meckelberg and I will be spending this quarter (until March 23rd) with your children as a student teacher in Mrs. Branson's classroom. I am completing my bachelor’s degree at University of Wisconsin- Oshkosh in Early Childhood education. For my second placement I will be at South Park Middle. I am originally from Oshkosh and I actually went to Washington Elementary when I was in elementary school and I went to Webster Middle.   I came back to both schools and sung while I was in madrigals when I was in high school at North. Some things that I do outside of school is work full-time as a manager at Under Armour. In my free time I like to spend time with my four cats, Jasper, Ollie Jack and TK.

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Emily Buske - School Counseling Practicum Student

Hello there, my name is Emily Buske, or simply “Emily” for the students. I am a professional counseling master’s student at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh and am so excited to be completing my practicum with you all this semester. I absolutely adore golden retrievers, bite-size snacks, and singing in the car and look forward to learning about a few of your favorite things as well! I will be working with Ms. Heideman about one day each week, so be sure to say hi if you see me in the hallways! I can’t wait to meet you and your kiddos soon!

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Best Wishes Miss Eileen!

Congratulations to Miss Eileen from our office who has accepted a new position in the district.  Starting Monday you will see her smiling face at the receptionist desk at central office!  We want to thank her for all she has done to support our Traeger students, staff and families and wish her well in her new duties!  We know she will do a fantastic job!

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February 1st-5th is National School Counseling Week!

Each year the school counseling profession is celebrated during the first week of February. The theme of the week is “School Counselors: All In For All Students.” We will celebrate the way the school counseling role helps support equity and professional collaboration.

Did you know that school counselors used to be called guidance counselors? This is because guidance counselors would “guide” students toward the right answer or the right way to do things. School counselors are no longer called guidance counselors because school counselors help give students the tools to decide what the right answer is for themselves, instead of doing the work for them. 

Kaelee Heideman is Carl Traeger Elementary’s school counselor and she loves her job! Her favorite part of being a school counselor is connecting with students and having conversations with both students and staff about equity. She loves teaching classroom counseling lessons and hopes to be able to get back into everyone’s classroom soon! She’s especially excited about having an intern and practicum student this semester so they can learn about how awesome Traeger is! Ms. Heideman also loves that her dog, Milo, has become an honorary school counselor and therapy dog during virtual learning- he really steals the show! 

Ms. Heideman takes on many roles at Traeger. She teaches classroom counseling lessons, works with students in small groups, and meets with students individually. She helps support PBIS and the Traeger Way and is included on the school’s crisis response team. She is part of the school’s equity team and has been enjoying the staff social justice book club!

If you ever have any concerns about your child or would like to get more information on Ms. Heideman’s comprehensive school counseling program, please feel free to contact her at kaelee.heideman@oshkosh.k12.wi.us or 920-471-3433 ext 1226. 

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Circle Drive Pick Up

Our first two weeks of hybrid have gone well!  We are working with children to stay behind the orange line until their vehicle comes to a complete stop.  Please remind your child of this important safety procedure.  You may have noticed that we have a very long traffic line.  As we think about a return to five days a week in school, we need your help to ensure we can move traffic along as quickly and safely as possible.  There are two things parents can do to help out.  The first is to move as far forward in the drive as possible.  This allows us to maximize the number of vehicles that are able to pick up at one time.  The other thing we need your help with is teaching kids to independently get themselves and their gear into the car.  It might not seem like an impediment if you have to get out and help your child, but if you multiply that by many cars it causes traffic to back up.  You can turn this into a game at home.  Try beat the clock and see how quickly they can get loaded.  You might even offer an incentive to help your child master this important life skill.  It will also make your life easier!  Please share this information with anyone who picks up your child.  One last tip is to have your pickup number written on a large piece of paper.  This helps us in getting the numbers to the classroom quickly.  Thank you in advance for helping us streamline our pickup process!

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OASD Food Service Meal Distribution Change

Starting next week Wednesday, February 3rd, we will once again be partnering with Feeding America to help distribute the Farm to Family boxes along with our school meals. To accommodate for this, we will be going down to one meal distribution on Wednesdays. The distribution will be from 4:30-6:30pm at Oshkosh West High School. 

Family food boxes will be available to anyone in the community. Five days worth of meals from the school district will also be available for any child 18 and under. We encourage families looking for meals for eAcademy students, meals for student's virtual days or meals for children not yet enrolled in school to visit this distribution. 

We are asking that anyone interested in picking up boxes or meals not enter the parking lot prior to 4pm to ensure students and staff can safely exit the parking lot before the distribution begins. 

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• February 10
  • Early Release
• February 11
  • Classroom Valentine Celebrations
  • PSC Meeting 6:00pm
• February 12 
  • Classroom Valentine Celebrations
• February 15
  • No School for Students
• February 18
  • Return to 5 day per week learning!

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Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

January 22, 2021: Issue 20

Traeger Tales 

SCHOOL SAFETY

Over the next few weeks Oshkosh Area School District Elementary Schools will be reviewing and practicing ALICE Drills.  ALICE is a program used by school districts to enhance current best practices related to addressing crisis situations.  Each classroom will review the components of ALICE and practice scenarios that will include barricading, locking down or evacuating.  Each building principal will lead a drill for the entire school walking through a scenario that includes an unsafe person in the building and each classroom will decide what option to pursue.  Our drill will take place on February 4 and 5 and due to COVID-19 will not include an evacuation to the YMCA.

All students will go through the ALICE training with their classmates.   The focus of the training/presentation will be empowering our students to understand the options they have in order to make important decisions in a time of crisis.  Similar to doing fire drills, ALICE training is designed to take students and staff through situations and allow them to “drill” various scenarios and how they would respond.  If a student does not feel comfortable before, or any time during the training, that student should let his/her teacher know.   If you have any questions regarding ALICE and/or the training, please feel free to contact me at 920-424-0221.  The safety and security of our students is our top priority!

You can learn more about the ALICE framework by viewing the following 

podcast:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8kwd0lZqGk

   ~Mrs. G. 😃 

As we close the first semester, I thought I would send out a Virtual Gallery of art collected over the last months to celebrate everyone's hard work! Special thanks to all the parents and adults who helped students during virtual learning. An extra big shout out to the students, who kept making art at home and coming to our live art meets! You are all amazing and inspire me every day! Hoping for a new year filled with many more fabulous art projects!

Winter Art Gallery

~Ms. Moucha

Picture Days

We will have 2 picture days this year to accommodate our A/B schedule.  They will be held on January 25 and 26 during the school day.  

In order to eliminate the mixing of cohorts, there are specific time blocks set aside for our eAcademy families: 

-January 25 - 9:00AM-11:00AM on the Stage

-January 26 - 11:00AM-1:00PM on the Stage

Follow the LINK to order online!

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Please find the following hands-on learning fun through the public library. 

 

TIY (Try It Yourself) Kits

Wonderlab STEAM Take Home Kits

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WELCOME TO THE PACK

Taylor Gulbrand - School Counseling Intern

Hello!  My name is Taylor Gulbrand and you can call me Ms. G or Ms. Gulbrand! I will be working with Ms. Heideman this semester as I learn how to be a school counselor! I am currently in my 2nd year of my master's degree in Professional Counseling at UW Oshkosh. Before my time at UWO, I graduated from UW Green Bay with double majors in Psychology and Human Development, and a minor in Music Performance. In my free time I love spending time with my friends and family, singing and dancing, exploring nature, and growing my indoor plants! I am so excited to have the opportunity to learn with you all! I look forward to meeting you! 

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PSC Agenda/Minutes - Virtual Meeting    

Thursday 1/14/2021, 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Who are we?

PSC Board Members

President: Nichole Casper

Vice President: Holly Emons
Co-Secretaries: Heather Swenson & Jessica Graf Treasurer: Jen Sorensen

1. Budget Update - Jen Sorenson

   1. Photography fundraiser check and US Cellular checks should be entered soon.

   2. Holiday Gift Board Credit - We will carry over the credit for next year to cover gifts needed. 

   3. Motion to accept report - Sheri Schmidt, Second - Liza Oestreich

2. City Wide PTO Report - Nichole Casper

   1. They cancelled the last meeting. Next meeting is next week. Email Nichole if you want information. 

3. Fundraising Update - Jessica Graf

   1. Fire Escape and Popcorn deliveries - super easy and went well

   2. Zaronies fundraiser - check going straight to Treasurer. $301.67

   3. Adventure Game & Hobby: Possibly over spring break in March. One day games would be out and they would teach you. Fundraiser would run 1 week. Jess is Chair. 

   4. Culvers - not hosting fundraisers at this time. 

   5. Vandewalles Chocolate Bars - $24 a box, WIll see if parents are interested in selling boxes. Jess can sell some from her store. WIll be posted next week on PSC Facebook. 

   6. Spirit Wear - More designs coming soon from Nichole Casper. 

4. In Person PSC meetings? - Brenna

   1. In-person regulations: safety plan and 25 person limit needed. 

   2. Interest to have in-person and online. Possibly have a dual option. Technology can be reserved. Have a mediator to watch chat and help online participants communicate. 

5. Holiday Giving Board Update - Katie Zurawski

   1. We had less families and kids this year. We had 23 families and 57 kids. We raised more money this year than last year. Program went smoothly and everyone received gifts. This year we had digital options - google docs and venmo. Katie is looking for 1 or 2 people to help her next year. 

6. School Crossing Guard Week January 18-22

   1. Jess will get something and deliver. We want to get something to Oshkosh OPD from Traeger to show gratitude. There is $25 in the budget. 

7. Nominating Committee - Heather Swenson

   1. Treasurer and Vice President positions are open. 

   2. Nominating Committee: Jess Graf and Holly Emmons

   3. Election in February. 

8. Herd Fundraiser - We have a credit that we could reach out for a potential refund. Holly will reach out to check into this. 

9. Pizza Ranch Fundraiser - Frozen bake at home pizzas. Buy for $7 and sell for $10. We may have an issue storing pizzas that are not picked up right away. Hold off for now. Put on next agenda. 

10. Eatons Fundraiser - you get a card to pay for the pizzas. You give the people the coupon and they get the pizza on their own. We could deliver coupons. Chair for this fundraiser in April: Erin Anderson. 

11. Cupcake Punch Card - Holly Emmons

    1. You get a cupcake each month. Extra one on your birthday month. We pay $26 and sell for the amount we choose between $36-40.  April fundraiser.

12. Thunderbird Bakery - Idea from Heather Branson. They will give back 25%. Jess will reach out to them to see what we can do. May fundraiser.

13. Motion to adjourn - Jess Graf  Motion to second - Mandy Stein 

NEXT MEETING: February 11, 2021 at 6:00pm

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• January 25
  • Picture Day
• January 26
  • Picture Day
• February 10
  • Early Release
• February 11
  • Classroom Valentine Celebrations
• February 12 
  • Classroom Valentine Celebrations
• February 15
  • No School for Students

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Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

January 15, 2021: Issue 19

Traeger Tales

Teaching Children About Diversity

People have many different personality traits and physical features. So, it seems normal when we pick out the differences between ourselves and others. However, making judgments about these differences can interfere with our openness, our willingness to try new experiences, and our acceptance of others who are different from us. As adults, we have the ability to reflect on our own biases, expand our understanding of differences, and challenge our preconceptions about different groups of people. Children need examples of others who are open and accepting of differences because they are heavily influenced by the behaviors of adults. Parents can play an active role in shaping their children’s behaviors, helping them to be more accepting of and kind toward those who look different from them.

Children tend to base their stereotyping on physical traits, such as race, gender, or age. Children understand their environment through categorization, so they make sense of the world by grouping people together according to how they look. As a result, children will most likely identify with a group of people who have a similar appearance to them, and they will become disengaged from people who appear different from them. For example, if a Latina girl's family or classroom divides people by race or gender, she will most likely believe that someone who is physically dissimilar from her is very different from her. This experience of sub-grouping in her family or classroom will reinforce any differences and create negative judgments or behaviors toward the other group of people. Likewise, when parents or teachers talk about the differences among groups of people in a negative way, children learn to separate themselves from others who appear different.

Parents can help their children value and appreciate diversity in everyday experiences by modeling behaviors that are open and kind toward others.

• Practice Unity. Do not segregate yourselves from people based on gender, age, disability, race or ethnicity, religion, or sexual orientation. Parents can provide their children with living examples of equality when interacting in a kind way with people who appear different from them.
• Use Kind Language. Refrain from using explicit remarks that categorize people. For example, there is a popular saying, “boys go to Jupiter to get more stupider, girls go to college to get more knowledge.” Even though this may seem harmless, it instills an idea in children that girls are smarter than boys, which could lead to segregation. As parents, it would be beneficial to be neutral or affirming of different groups.
• Be Kind in Action. Sometimes, we are not aware of our body language around others. For example, a white individual might act standoffish around an African American individual. By increasing our awareness of our nonverbal behaviors and treating everyone the same, we model for our children how to treat others with equality and kindness.
• Have Multicultural Experiences. As a family, becoming engaged in multicultural experiences could be a fun learning experience for everyone. Diversity experiences lead to fewer stereotypes. Introduce your children to diverse groups, such as a new religious setting or cultural community events. The whole family will discover new things about themselves and others through participation in new cultural experiences.
• Redirect Intolerant Behavior. If you witness your child acting or speaking out in judgment of diverse groups, speak with him about it. Talk with him about why it is important to treat everyone with kindness and equality.

It is important for children to have role models who motivate them to engage in multicultural activities. While children are in many different learning environments, parents have the greatest impact on how their children perceive and act toward others. These strategies for valuing diversity can also be shared with other family members, friends, or teachers. Through collaboration, caregivers can reduce stereotyping in children, leading to stronger relationships with all types of people. As children become more comfortable with diverse people, they will gain mutual acceptance of themselves and others. They will no longer think of themselves as different from others. Rather, they will feel more connected with their peers and become more accepting of peoples’ differences.

~Mrs. G. 😃

Source: Melissa M. Gericke, B.A. & Janet L. Muse-Burke, Ph.D., Marywood University

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FOOD SERVICE POSITIONS AVAILABLE

Looking to earn some extra money?  The OASD Food Service Department has a number of openings!  You can apply on WECAN for any of the positions.  You can call Food Service with any questions you may have. 

Carl Traeger Elementary - Lunch Shift - 10:25-12:55

Emmeline Cook - Breakfast Shift - 7:00 -9:00

Emmeline Cook - Lunch Shift - 10:50 - 12:30

Oakwood - Lunch Shift - 10:30 - 12:45

Read - Lunch Shift - 10:15 - 12:15

Webster Elementary - 2 Lunch Shifts available - 10:35 - 12:50

Carl Traeger Middle - Lunch Shift - 10:30 - 1:00

Merrill Middle - Breakfast Shift - 7:15 - 8:45

South Park - Lunch Shift - 11:25 - 1:35

Webster Middle - Lunch Shift - 10:45 - 1:30

West High - Assistant Cook Float - 6:30 - 12:30 - 5.5 hours per day or more if needed

West High - Assistant Cook - Temporary Position - 7.75 hours per day 6:15 - 2:30

North High - Assistant Cook - 5 hrs per day - 11:00 - 4:30 

North High - Cook Helper - 4.5 hrs per day - 10:45 - 3:45

Substitute Workers - flexible to work at any school

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Picture Days

We will have 2 picture days this year to accommodate our A/B schedule.  They will be held on January 25 and 26 during the school day.  

In order to eliminate the mixing of cohorts, there are specific time blocks set aside for our eAcademy families: 

-January 25 - 9:00AM-11:00AM on the Stage

-January 26 - 11:00AM-1:00PM on the Stage

Follow the LINK to order online!

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Please find the following hands-on learning fun through the public library. 

 

TIY (Try It Yourself) Kits

Wonderlab STEAM Take Home Kits

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Thank you to all of our families for participating in One Book One CommuniTE.  Special thanks to our PSC for all their support-this would not be possible without it!  We hope you enjoyed the Vanderbeekers of 141st Street.  We had two amazing author visits with Karina Yan Glaser this week!  Her message was so applicable to what our young writers do every day!  We are excited to share one of Karina's recipes from her book!  Enjoy!

 

 

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Adult Crossing Guard Recognition Week

Each day, dedicated adult crossing guards across Wisconsin show up at their assigned crossings to assist students in their journeys to and from school.  Right now our crossing guard position at the corner of Oakwood and Newport is being staffed by members of the Oshkosh Police Department.  Please show your appreciation to then for keeping our children safe!

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PSC ZaRonis Fundraiser

Special thanks to everyone who supported this great fundraiser!  We raised $301.67 for your PSC!

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• January 18
  • No School
• January 25
  • Picture Day
• January 26
  • ​​​​​​​Picture Day

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Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

January 8, 2021: Issue 18

Traeger Tales

Happy New Year!

Many people use the passing of another year as a time to reflect on the past and set goals for the New Year. The end of the second quarter is approaching and report cards will be posted in Infinite Campus on January 20.  One area in which students will be receiving grades is Life and Career skills:

Flexibility and Adaptability - Applies problem solving skills in a changing environment.

Initiative and Self-Direction - Works towards goals with pride.

Social and Cross-Cultural Skills - Interacts effectively with others.

Productivity and Accountability – Accountable for group or individual tasks in a timely manner.

Leadership and Responsibility- Encourages others to contribute positively to school and/or larger community.

As a parent you can support your child in these areas by discussing and reinforcing these concepts with your child at home. You can also help by ensuring that your child has a nutritious breakfast each day. Studies show that kids who eat breakfast behave better than kids who don't. But what can a parent do when a child refuses to eat this most important meal of the day? If the child says he or she isn't hungry, be patient and allow him or her to begin slowly. Eventually, most children will get accustomed to eating early in the morning before school. They begin to understand that it helps improve their all-around performance and ward off hunger before lunch.

Many simple but healthy food choices are available. Just find a few that your child agrees upon and you will eliminate morning squabbles. Here are some suggestions on the types of foods to stock up on and other ways to get through the breakfast controversy:

• Cheese sticks or cubes, yogurt or fruit can be a great, fast start. It may not be a full breakfast in your mind, but at least your son or daughter is eating something nutritious.

• Get out the blender and make smoothies together. A varied combination of such things as bananas, strawberries, yogurt, frozen yogurt and fruit juices can give a child a great start to any day. There are also pre-packaged instant breakfast drinks that offer a lot of nutrients.

• Whole grain toast with peanut butter can be a healthy choice as well as instant oatmeal. The flavors of oatmeal available these days can satisfy even the fussiest of eaters.

• Granola bars and healthy breakfast bars can also be a quick alternative. Make sure to read the labels to identify if the bars really do have any nutrients instead of just sugar and sodium.

• Frozen waffles, pancakes and French toast are fast and can be made even healthier with a helping of strawberries or blueberries on top.

• Don't turn on the television, computer or radio while you sit down with your child to eat breakfast.

• Have your child set his or her alarm 15 minutes early to allow for breakfast time.

As a busy parent, I know it can be challenging to prepare breakfast on top of all the other tasks necessary to get kids to school on time each day. At Traeger we are fortunate to have a school breakfast program.  This year all students have the opportunity to receive a nutritious breakfast right in their classroom. Whether your child has breakfast at home or school, we thank you for your support in helping each child start the day ready to learn!

~ Mrs. G 😀 

Model 3 Begins January 11!

We are excited to welcome children back to our building on January 11!  As we continue navigating the challenges of learning during a pandemic, the district has reviewed feedback from families and teachers and has revised hybrid learning curriculum to better meet the needs of our learners, families, and staff. Students will be in the same cohort group they were in fall, but will be attending on set days each week either on Monday/Thursday or Tuesday/Friday.  Wednesday will be a virtual day for all students. 

Here is what you can expect beginning on January 11 and 12:

• In person learning: Morning Meeting, Math, Reading, Writing, Phonics/Word Study, Science or Social Studies lessons daily with an emphasis on small group or 1-1 instruction to meet the needs of all students.  Students will also have specialist classes on in person days.

• Virtual learning: Live instruction in Morning Meeting, Number Corner and Interactive Read Aloud daily, assignments to support reading, writing, and math daily (*your child’s classroom teacher will communicate details and schedules with you)

• Wednesday: Live instruction in Morning Meeting, Interactive Read Aloud and daily assignments to support reading, writing, and math daily (*your child’s classroom teacher will communicate details and schedules with you)

• Quarantined/Absent children: Live instruction in Morning Meeting and Interactive Read Aloud daily, assignments to support reading, writing, and math daily and recorded videos from missed literacy and math lessons (*your child’s classroom teacher will communicate details and schedules with you). If quarantined, expect your child to meet with their classroom teacher on Wednesday for a 1-1 or small group lesson. 

• Week at a Glance: Week at a Glance will continue to be posted in Google Classroom. 

Classroom teachers will provide details specific to your child’s daily routines and schedule.

Now is a great time to start getting ready by practicing wearing a mask for an extended period of time if your child is not in the habit.  This is also a good time to practice opening any lunch items as we need students to be independent for safety reasons.  Lastly, practice putting on and off boots and snow gear quickly.  We have included some calendars to help with knowing when cohorts are in session and when they are learning at home.

We appreciate your flexibility, patience and partnership as we continue working through another change! 

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Winter Safety

Safety is important in the winter, especially on the playground at school! Please take some time to review with your child a few of our playground rules for winter:

• Boots and snow pants must be worn to play in the woodchip area or on the field. If children do not wear boots, they bring in water on their shoes with the snow. The classrooms then get wet and it is difficult to manage an orderly learning environment throughout the day.

•Due to COVID-19, Classroom teachers are providing supervision for their own class for all recesses.  All students must go out and stay in the class designated area.  If a child does not have boots/snowpants they may get wet.  Please consider sending extra socks and pants for your child as they will have to live with their choices.  

• Snow is NEVER to be thrown.  This year we will have a designated target for snow throwing, but that is the ONLY place snowballs may be thrown.
• No sliding on the ice is allowed. The threat of injury is too great.
• The slide must be used one child at a time, feet first. Ice can accumulate on the slides, so children should always be careful when using them in winter.
• No tunnels or snow forts with roofs will be allowed on the playground. The danger of collapsing on top of children is too great. Please respect the
“creations” of other students and leave their forts and large snow “boulders” in tact. (This means do not knock over someone else’s fort.)
• No climbing on snow hills. The threat of injury is too great.

Thank you! We want our winter fun at school to be safe and enjoyable for everyone!

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Picture Day!

We have rescheduled our picture days for January 25 and 26!

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Karina Yan Glaser Author Visit

Next week we have the privilege of connecting with the author of The Vanderbeekers of 141st St. During our virtual author visit, there will be an opportunity to ask questions. In order to make this time valuable, we are asking students to submit questions ahead of time. If your child would like to ask a question of the author, please fill out this FORM by Monday, January, 11 . Questions will be reviewed and children that are chosen will be contacted before next Wednesday. If your child doesn't feel comfortable asking the question in front of the school or if their question isn't chosen, there is also an opportunity to write a letter to the author. We bet you will get a response! ATTACHED is the contact information if you are interested in that.  Post a picture of the letter to our Facebook page for a chance to win a signed copy of a Vanderbeeker book! There are three other books in the Vanderbeekers series.  If your family is interested in ordering a signed copy of any of the Vanderbeeker books you can do so at the LINK.

 

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PSC ZaRonis Fundraiser

Support our school and enjoy ZaRonis pizza, specialty MAC, and appetizers on Monday, January 11th . Order between 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. and a portion of proceeds will be donated back to Traeger.

Order at the link below:

https://weborder8.microworks.com/zaronis

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OASD Free School Meal Distribution During Model 3: Hybrid Learning

While the OASD is in Model 3: Hybrid Learning school meals (for virtual learning days, eAcademy students, and anyone age 18 and under) will be distributed as follows:

Meal Distribution During Model 3: Hybrid Learning: Meal distributions will continue to occur on Wednesdays ONLY at the following locations and times:

• North High School (circle drive in front of school) from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

• West High School (in front of door 20) from 12:15 - 1:15 p.m.

• West High School (in front of door 20) from 3:15 - 4:15 p.m.

• North High School (circle drive in front of school) from 5 - 6 p.m.

NOTE: No school meals will be sent home with students at the end of their in-person learning days at this time. Families looking for additional school meals for virtual learning days are asked to visit the distribution sites on Wednesdays to receive those meals.

Meal Distribution Details:

• Meals will be distributed for five days at a time and will include a breakfast, lunch, and supper for each day. 

• Milk will be offered with all meals. 

• Meals are available and are free to anyone age 18 and under. 

• Children do not need to be present to receive free meals, a parent/guardian or sibling may pick up meals. 

• Children do not need to be enrolled in the Oshkosh Area School District to receive free meals. 

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Ring in the New Year with the Carl Traeger PSC January 14, 2021 at 6:00! It's our first meeting of the New Year and it's time to make some resolutions. Want to make a difference in your child's life? Start by attending a virtual PSC meeting and become knowledgeable about all the great ways you can get involved or just find out what is going on at Carl Traeger! Never been to a meeting before? There is not a better time to start!

PSC Agenda - Virtual Meeting

Zoom Link

Thursday 1/14/2021, 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Who are we? PSC Board Members

• President: Nichole Casper
• Vice President: Holly Emons
• Co-Secretaries: Heather Swenson & Jessica Graf
• Treasurer: Jen Sorensen

1. Budget Update - Jen Sorenson

2. City Wide PTO Report - Nichole Casper

3. Fundraising Update - Jessica Graf

4. In Person PSC meetings? - Brenna

5. Holiday Giving Board Update - Katie Zurawski

6. School Crossing Guard Week January 18-22

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Out-Of-Attendance and Open Enrollment

Please follow the link to information regarding deadlines to apply.

 

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• January 11
  • Model 3 Begins!
  • School Colors Day!
  • PSC Zaroni's Fundraiser!
• January 12
  • School Colors Day!
• January 14
  • Virtual PSC 6:00pm 
• January 18
  • No School
• January 25
  • Picture Day
• January 26
  • ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Picture Day

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Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

December 18, 2020: Issue 17

Traeger Tales

BUILDING STRONG RELATIONSHIPS THROUGH COMMUNICATION

From the beginning of life your child has been communicating with you. Communication with your child can be amazing. Do you remember seeing your child’s first smile or celebrating your child’s first word? Communication can be challenging, too. It doesn’t feel quite as amazing when a child communicates by having a temper tantrum, rolling his eyes or slamming a door. Naming emotions and showing your child examples of body language can help them understand how actions may express what someone is feeling or thinking.

Body language is a type of non-verbal communication where actions are used to show feelings.

What we know:

As kids get older it can still be really difficult for them to understand and express their feelings, thoughts and emotions. It may also be difficult for them to pick up on body language (non-verbal cues) from other people. Our job as a parent is to help them build strong and positive relationships by using good communication skills.

You might think, I can’t get them to put away their backpack, how will I get them to listen to a lesson on communication? Don’t worry. Communication can be taught by little everyday actions.

Try this:

• Describe Actions: You can help your child better understand how actions communicate. You can look at someone who is looking down with his arms crossed and ask your child, “What might he be feeling?” Or when your child communicates with actions you can describe it for them. For example, you can say to your child, “When you roll your eyes at me, you seem annoyed and I feel disrespected.”

• Start the Conversation: You can teach your child how to start a conversation. Talk to your child during car rides about where you are going and what you see. Talk during commercials about the TV show you are watching. Just as you taught your child new words as a toddler, you can show them how to start a conversation.

• Build on the Story: You can help your child learn to listen and build on someone else’s story. After your child has told you something, repeat some of it back and then follow up with a related question like, “it sounds like she was really excited about getting the award. How did other people around her act?”

For fun:

The Pixar short film For The Birds is a fun way to have a talk with your child about how body language and tone are used to communicate with others. Do you both agree on what the birds are saying?   ~ Mrs. G. 😀 (Source UW Extension)

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Traeger Virtual Holiday Sing Along

Mrs. Schmidt has provided our Traeger students with an all School Holiday Sing Along for many years and although we are Virtual at this time, she would like to still get our school family together to share in some Festive Music and Holiday Cheer. Please login to Mrs. Schmidt’s Music Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/mrs.schmidtsmusicroom. 

Mrs. Schmidt will be Facebook LIVE on Monday, December 21st at 6pm. The Sing Along will last approximately 30 minutes and all Traeger students, staff, families and friends are invited to join in our 1st ever Virtual Holiday Sing Along!

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Looking for a fun family activity?  Follow the LINK to learn about Ms. Moucha's Brown Bag Sweater Challenge!

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Our school community has been reading The Vanderbeekers of 141st St. It has been so exciting to hear all of the great conversations and thinking around this family’s story. The author, Karina Yan Glaser, loves to hear from her fans. Now is a great time to send her a letter to share your thinking and see if she writes you back! Click on this LINK for her contact information. Post a picture of your letter on our Facebook page to be entered into a contest to win a signed copy of the third VanderBeekers book, The Vanderbeekers to the Rescue.

Mrs. Runde will be hosting two exciting opportunities over break!  

K-2 students can join Mrs. Runde for a virtual story hour and craft on Monday, December 28 1:00.  From a student computer go to meet.google.com use the join code rundereads.   Students should come with a piece of white paper and a pencil.  Attendees will be entered in a drawing to win a signed copy of the second VanderBeekers book, the VanderBeekers and the Hidden Garden.

On New Years Day at 1:00, Mrs. Runde will host First Chapter Friday and share the first chapters of some great books for students in grades 3-5.  Attendees will be entered into a drawing to win a signed copy of the second VanderBeekers book, the Vanderbeekers and the Hidden Garden.  From a student computer go to meet.google.com use the join code rundereads.

If you want to listen to any of the Vanderbeekers chapters over the break, click on the LINK!

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Model 3 Begins January 11!

We are excited to welcome children back to our building on January 11!  As we continue navigating the challenges of learning during a pandemic, the district has reviewed feedback from families and teachers and has revised hybrid learning curriculum to better meet the needs of our learners, families, and staff. Students will be in the same cohort group they were in fall, but will be attending on set days each week either on Monday/Thursday or Tuesday/Friday.  Wednesday will be a virtual day for all students. 

Here is what you can expect beginning on January 11 and 12:

• In person learning: Morning Meeting, Math, Reading, Writing, Phonics/Word Study, Science or Social Studies lessons daily with an emphasis on small group or 1-1 instruction to meet the needs of all students.  Students will also have specialist classes on in person days.

• Virtual learning: Live instruction in Morning Meeting, Number Corner and Interactive Read Aloud daily, assignments to support reading, writing, and math daily (*your child’s classroom teacher will communicate details and schedules with you)

• Wednesday: Live instruction in Morning Meeting, Interactive Read Aloud and daily assignments to support reading, writing, and math daily (*your child’s classroom teacher will communicate details and schedules with you)

• Quarantined/Absent children: Live instruction in Morning Meeting and Interactive Read Aloud daily, assignments to support reading, writing, and math daily and recorded videos from missed literacy and math lessons (*your child’s classroom teacher will communicate details and schedules with you). If quarantined, expect your child to meet with their classroom teacher on Wednesday for a 1-1 or small group lesson. 

• Week at a Glance: Week at a Glance will continue to be posted in Google Classroom. 

Classroom teachers will provide details specific to your child’s daily routines and schedule.

Now is a great time to start getting ready by practicing wearing a mask for an extended period of time if your child is not in the habit.  This is also a good time to practice opening any lunch items as we need students to be independent for safety reasons.  Lastly, practice putting on and off boots and snow gear quickly.  We have included some calendars to help with knowing when cohorts are in session and when they are learning at home.

We appreciate your flexibility, patience and partnership as we continue working through another change! 

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PSC ZaRonis Fundraiser

Support our school and enjoy ZaRonis pizza, specialty MAC, and appetizers on Monday, January 11th . Order between 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. and a portion of proceeds will be donated back to Traeger.

Order at the link below:

https://weborder8.microworks.com/zaronis

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Brighten Someone’s Holiday

Thank you to all the generous families who have donated gifts and/or gift cards to Brighten Someone’s Holiday. We were able to support our very own Traeger families and 59 kids will have a better holiday season because of you! We’d also like to thank Katie Zurawski, Jennifer Borgmann and Kaelee Heideman for all their leadership in making this possible!

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• December 21 
  • Be Bright Like a Light Bulb OR Ugly Sweater Day
  • Holiday Sing Along with Mrs. Schmidt - 6:00pm
• December 22
  • PJ Polar Express Day
• December 23-January 3
  • Winter Break
• January 4
  • School Resumes
• January 6
  • Early Release
• January 11
  • Model 3 Begins!
  • PSC Zaroni's Fundraiser!
• January 14
  • Virtual PSC 6:00pm 

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Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

December 11, 2020: Issue 16

Traeger Tales

A LITTLE CARING GOES A LONG WAY

Empathy in children is linked to stronger relationship skills. Strong relationships help a person feel happy. Teaching children to care for others is a great way to help children be happy when they are older. There are a variety of strategies to build empathy in children.

Empathy is the ability to understand and share someone else’s feelings.

What we know:

• When children are asked to think about how other children feel, it can help them to better understand and share someone else’s feelings.

• Children who can see and know how someone else feels are more likely to get along with other people.

• When children consider how other people feel, they are more likely to reach out and help others.

Try this:

Many children believe that their parents value success more than being a caring person. You can show your child that it is important to you that they care about other people. Share age-appropriate news stories with your children and start a conversation. News sites for children like TIME for Kids allow you to filter news by age group and find news for your age child. Read stories like this TIME for Kids article about Hurricane Harvey with your child and talk about it together. Ask:

• How do you think those children felt during the storm? Why?

• How do you think you would feel if you lost your home and all your things?

• What can we do to help?

Try this too:

You can use your child’s life to help him think about how other people feel. When your child says that there is a new kid at school you can ask, “How do you think it feels to be in a new place?  How do you think it feels to not know anyone?”  By talking about other children’s problems, you build empathy and help your child begin to see how other people feel when things are new or difficult.  ~ Mrs. G. 😀 (Source UW Extension)

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Material Exchange 

Thank you all for your feedback regarding our previous material exchange! We know some of you had to make multiple trips to school within only a few days and we are working to make sure that is not the case this time around!  Our next material exchange will occur Monday, December 14 through Wednesday December 16 and this will be your opportunity to pick up ALL materials you will need through winter break.

Each and every student will have a math kit to pick up as well as certain grade level materials.

Monday, December 14: 8-3

Tuesday, December 15: 8-7

Wednesday, December 16: 8-3

Thank you for your continued patience during virtual learning!

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A note from Mrs. Miller media specialist

December Digital Citizenship Topic: Privacy & Security

When kids start to go online, whether they're playing multiplayer games, using educational apps, or just following their curiosity on Google, it's important that they understand the basics of online privacy and safety. With some general guidelines around what information is and isn't OK to share, and some help from parents when they're unsure, kids can have fun and learn a lot in the digital world. Click here for 5 tips!

Digital Citizenship is teaching students how to be respectful, responsible, safe, and trustworthy when using technology.

Books, books, books!

Don’t forget all of the ways we can get books into your kiddos hands right now.

 

Theme Days for the countdown to winter break!

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Traeger Virtual Holiday Sing Along

Mrs. Schmidt has provided our Traeger students with an all School Holiday Sing Along for many years and although we are Virtual at this time, she would like to still get our school family together to share in some Festive Music and Holiday Cheer. Please login to Mrs. Schmidt’s Music Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/mrs.schmidtsmusicroom. 

Mrs. Schmidt will be Facebook LIVE on Monday, December 21st at 6pm. The Sing Along will last approximately 30 minutes and all Traeger students, staff, families and friends are invited to join in our 1st ever Virtual Holiday Sing Along!

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Looking for a fun family activity?  Follow the LINK to learn about Ms. Moucha's Brown Bag Sweater Challenge!

Student Writing Wanted!

Has your child been working hard on some great writing during virtual learning? Would you like to share the gift of stories with others? Maybe it is the writing they are doing during Writer's Workshop or maybe they have been doing some other writing on their own! We are looking to share some of our students' great work with our business community. If you have a story, a poem, a song, or any other writing your child would like to share, please drop it off during our school pick up or mail it to Traeger Elementary Attn: Mrs. Runde.  You can also email it to Mrs. Runde at julie.runde@oshkosh.k12.wi.us.  Please put Community Writing in the subject line.  We will take care of getting your story copied and out into our community during the week of Dec. 19 for others to enjoy during this holiday season!

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Paint at home & support your school!

Get creative with your family by ordering an art kit from Fire Escape. A portion of all kits ordered will be donated to Carl Traeger PSC. Kits are ordered online and include instructions, paintbrushes, and the 3-5 paints we used to create the example project.

To see all the details and support our fundraiser visit: https://bit.ly/39usUUq

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virtual check ins for 3-5 students

Ms. Heideman and Mrs. D will be hosting grade level gatherings for 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders again next week! All Traeger students, including eAcademy students, are welcome to join! Here is the schedule and links to join!

• 5th grade: Tuesday at 12:00  link: https://meet.google.com/  join code: ctegrade5
• 4th grade: Thursday at 11:30 link: https://meet.google.com/ join code: ctegrade4
• 3rd grade: Friday at 12:00 link: https://meet.google.com/ join code: ctegrade3

We hope to see you there!

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• December 14
  • Material Pick Up 8-3
• December 15
  • Material Pick Up 8-7
• December 16
  • Material Pick Up 8-3
  • Winter Wonderland Day- blue or white or sparkles
• December 17 
  • Fancy Day!  We need an excuse to dress up!
• December 18
  • Elf / Reindeer Day (any type of reindeer antler hat or gear / elf shirt or elf on a shelf apparel)
• December 21 
  • Be Bright Like a Light Bulb OR Ugly Sweater Day
  • Holiday Sing Along with Mrs. Schmidt - 6:00pm
• December 22
  • PJ Polar Express Day
• December 23-January 3
  • Winter Break

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Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

December 4, 2020: Issue 15

Traeger Tales

THE GIFT OF TIME

Children love the gifts of the holidays! At school we hear all sorts of wishes for the gifts children will receive this Christmas.  While material gifts are fun, they break down over time. Children lose interest in them and move on to another toy they “have” to have.

One gift your child will never tire of is your undivided attention. Take time over the next few weeks to spend some quality time with your child. Invest in your child and watch the payback and returns for years to come.

THE GIFT OF TIME

Imagine there is a bank which credits your account each morning with $86,400. It carries over no balance from day to day, allows you to keep no cash balance, and every evening cancels whatever part of the amount you had failed to use during the day.

What would you do? Draw out every cent, of course! Well, everyone has such a bank. Its name is TIME. Every morning, it credits you with 86,400 seconds. Every night it writes off, as lost, whatever of this you have failed to invest to good purpose.

It carries over no balance. It allows no overdraft. Each day it opens a new account for you. Each night it burns the remains of the day. If you fail to use the day’s deposits, the loss is yours.

There is no going back. There is no drawing against the “tomorrow”. You must live in the present on today’s deposits. Invest it so as to get from it the utmost in health, happiness and success!

The clock is running. Make the most of today. ~Anonymous

I hope this holiday season is filled with many wonderful memories together with your children! ~ Mrs. G. 😀

Paint at home & support your school!

Get creative with your family by ordering an art kit from Fire Escape. A portion of all kits ordered will be donated to Carl Traeger PSC. Kits are ordered online and include instructions, paintbrushes and the 3-5 paints we used to create the example project.

To see all the details and support our fundraiser visit: https://bit.ly/39usUUq

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All About Family Dinner Book Club

Family Dinner Book Club invites you to share a great story, great art, great conversation and great food each month. This month's selection is We're All Wonders.

Jodie has created conversation starters that you can download and print here:

https://drive.google.com/.../1582S5YlquTMlvkq5Xh5.../view

Laura shares a Christmas kindness tradition.

https://www.sunnydayfamily.com/.../christmas-kindness...

And Sarah has a themed menu to go with the book.

https://chefsarahelizabeth.com/.../were-all-wonders.../

Also, follow along with us on our Facebook page!  We love to see pictures of your special dinner.  Plus, we share extra materials to support your book club each month.

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Virtual check ins for K-2 students

Hi everyone! Our school counselor, Ms. Heideman, and behavior interventionist, Mrs. D, will be hosting virtual check ins for Kindergarten, 1st grade, and 2nd grade next week. All students in those grade levels, including eAcademy students, are welcome to join this fun opportunity to check in and chat with each other! Here is the schedule with the links to join!

2nd grade- Tuesday at 11:30 link: https://meet.google.com/ code: ctegrade2

1st grade- Tuesday at 12:00 link https://meet.google.com/ code: ctegrade1

Kindergarten- Wednesday at 11:30 link https://meet.google.com/ code: ctek

We hope to see you there!

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Paint at home & support your school!

Get creative with your family by ordering an art kit from Fire Escape. A portion of all kits ordered will be donated to Carl Traeger PSC. Kits are ordered online and include instructions, paintbrushes and the 3-5 paints we used to create the example project.

To see all the details and support our fundraiser visit: https://bit.ly/39usUUq

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Theme Days for the countdown to winter break!

Holiday Shopping? Be sure to remember Carl Traeger Elementary!

AmazonSmile is a simple and automatic way for you to support your favorite charitable organization every time you shop, at no cost to you. When you shop at smile.amazon.com, you’ll find the exact same low prices, vast selection and convenient shopping experience as Amazon.com, with the added bonus that Amazon will donate a portion of the purchase price to your favorite charitable organization.

To shop at AmazonSmile simply go to smile.amazon.com from the web browser on your computer or mobile device. You use the same account on Amazon.com and AmazonSmile.

On your first visit to AmazonSmile (smile.amazon.com), you need to select Carl Traeger PSC Carl Traeger Elementary School to receive donations from eligible purchases before you begin shopping. The AmazonSmile Foundation will donate 0.5% of the purchase price from your eligible AmazonSmile purchases.

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We are once again partnering with the Mid-Morning Kiwanis Club in sponsoring a food drive. Each year, Oshkosh Area School District elementary schools participate in this food drive to help families in the Oshkosh community. This is the 46th year of this partnership!  Things look a little different this year and we are grateful for any assistance you can offer.  We will be accepting food donations through December 10.  You can drop off donations any time during our office hours.  We are excited to help once again, and we know that our awesome Traeger families can help us meet our goal.

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• December 9
  • Early Release
• December 16
  • Winter Wonderland Day- blue or white or sparkles
• December 17 
  • Fancy Day!  We need an excuse to dress up!
• December 18
  • Elf / Reindeer Day (any type of reindeer antler hat or gear / elf shirt or elf on a shelf apparel)
• December 21 
  • Be Bright Like a Light Bulb OR Ugly Sweater Day
• December 22
  • PJ Polar Express Day
• December 23-January 3
  • Winter Break

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Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

November 20, 2020: Issue 14

Traeger Tales

ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE

As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday we often spend time reflecting on what we are thankful for.  However, Thanksgiving isn't just a day...it's how we can live our lives everyday.  The Attitude of Gratitude mindset teaches us the importance of seeking the positives from every experience and being thankful for all that we have. Through this mindset, we learn that we can use the positives or the negatives of our lives as the foundation on which to build. Choose the positives, and we are on our way toward extraordinary success; choose the negatives, and we embark on path toward disappointment, resentment, and suffering. In these lessons, we guide students to focus on all the things they have, leaving no time to be distracted by what they don’t.

The 4 critical components of Attitude of Gratitude:

1. Treasure Yourself – We create the wonderful lives we want by harvesting the great things within us. There are often things we don’t like about ourselves, but we must recognize that we’re made of far more wonderful things than not. We need to recognize our own worth and see our uniqueness as something to treasure and develop so we can live the extraordinary lives we’re meant to live.

2. Be More Grateful – We all have the choice to focus on the good or the bad in life. If we focus on the positive things, they expand and guide us down the path to our dreams. If we spend our time in regret, jealously, and anger, then the negatives multiply and we likely find our dreams sidelined and our goals unattained. We must simply be more grateful, reflecting as much as possible on the good things in our lives as well as those that are coming to us.

3. Thank it Forward – One of the best and quickest ways to feel better and become happier is to do something for someone else. And the easiest as well as one of the most powerful things we can do for someone is express gratitude for who they are and what they mean to us. Thanking someone provides two wonderful gifts: it makes the other person feel good, and makes us happy at the same time.

4. Elevate Your Perspective – People who have achieved great lives point to moments of great adversity and challenge when they learned a critical lesson or built the essential skill that allowed them to be successful. Knowing this, we understand why it is important to seek the positives from all situations, even those that seem completely negative. When we do this, we get better, learn, and grow in essential ways that help us to live richer and fuller lives.

Top 5 Dos and Don’ts at Home:

1) Do practice gratitude every day, even if it’s only to tell your children how grateful you are to have them in your life. If you have a journal, write down the things that you’re thankful for every day, both the big and small. Verbalizing what you’re grateful for is a powerful way that both you and your children can keep from taking things for granted and remain thankful for all that you have.

2) Do say “thank you” regularly. Showing your gratitude to neighbors and teachers with a kind note or word is one small way to show your appreciation for them. Teaching your children to do the same is important in helping them to feel gratitude for the lives and friends that they have.

3) Don’t let the bad times be all bad. Become an “inverse paranoid” and believe that the universe is conspiring to do you good, and the bad times and obstacles are there to teach you something useful. Try saying to yourself, “I can’t wait to find out what good will come from this!” This helps you look at all situations as leading toward positives in life.

4) Do write a thank you note to your children for what you appreciate about them. For example, you might write and leave a note that says, “Thank you so much for picking up your room today without me even asking. You are an incredible kid and I am so thankful to have you in my life!”

5) Do treasure yourself and take care of yourself as a role model for your child. Many parents treasure their children but not themselves. Think about how you are living your life. Are you maximizing your potential? Enjoying how you spend your time? If parents are not able to live extraordinary lives and let themselves shine for all to enjoy, what kind of lives are we modeling for our children?

Activities to Do with Your Child:

1) A New Story of Me – link

2) Being More Grateful – link

3) My Thank You Notes – link

4) Gratitude Journal -buy a journal for child to write in every night what they are thankful for

With gratitude for all our Traeger families,

~Mrs. G.  😃 (Source: 7 Mindsets)

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We are once again partnering with the Mid-Morning Kiwanis Club in sponsoring a food drive. Each year, Oshkosh Area School District elementary schools participate in this food drive to help families in the Oshkosh community. This is the 46th year of this partnership!  Things look a little different this year and we are grateful for any assistance you can offer.  We will be accepting food donations through December 10.  You can drop off donations when exchanging materials or any time during our office hours.  Please note our office will NOT be staffed the week of November 30.  We are excited to help once again, and we know that our awesome Traeger families can help us meet our goal.

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Because we are not able to participate in art shows or school hallway displays this year, I thought I would put together a video to bring a fall art show to you!  The Carl Traeger artists have been working so hard and I wanted to take to time to celebrate their creations!  Thank you to all the adults out their helping with the projects, finding materials, taking photos and submitting!  I will begin a winter gallery next week! ~Ms. Moucha

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Our school is ready for our annual Kindergarten-5th grade book club called One Book One CommuniTE. Thanks to the generous support of the PSC, every family (including eAcademy) will receive a copy of the same book--The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street by Karina Yan Glaser.   

One Book,One CommuniTE includes all grade levels in a shared literary experience. The book was chosen as a more recently published book from a series that will give us a peek into the lives of a bi-racial family from Harlem, NY. Readers will get to know the Vanderbeekers in this funny and lively story about the connections we make and the unexpected twists and turns life can take. We hope to bring our school family together around the family’s adventures in the first book in this Vanderbeeker series.

We look forward to joining you on this journey as you take the opportunity to connect with your family while helping your child/ren build a lifelong love of reading! With your support at home, we can create a powerful reading community at Traeger Elementary.  Please pick up your copy by November 24 at the school office!  Information and a reading calendar are included with the book.

Click here to sign up for an item!

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WELCOME TO THE PACK

Allison Berndt - Paraprofessional

Hi! My name is Allison Berndt and I’m an EBD Paraprofessional! It is my first year at Carl Traeger. I went to Fox Valley Tech. In my free time I like to run and go camping! I also like to hike and hang out with my friends. I’m so excited for my first year!!

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PSC Minutes 

Thursday 11/12/2020, 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Who are we?

PSC Board Members

• President: Nichole Casper
• Vice President: Holly Emons
• Co-Secretaries: Heather Swenson & Jessica Graf
• Treasurer: Jen Sorensen

1. Budget Update  - Jen Sorenson - September and October

   • Very few changes to the budget, two private donations. 

2. Back To School Supplies Fundraiser - Jen Sorenson

   •  Tabling for future PSC meetings since we are not sure what next school year will look like 

3. Photography Fundraiser Update 

   • Did not fill all the spots but still a great fundraiser. The photographer will do this again next year and we will pick earlier in the year dates. We raised $912! The photographer will reach out to families on how to get to photos. Any questions - Message Heather on PSC Facebook.

4. City Wide PTO Report- Nichole Casper 

   •  Not able to attend for October. 

5. Spirit Wear Sale Update - Nichole Casper 

   • Donations from sales will be made to the Venmo account each month. 

6. Brighten Someone's Day Update - Katie Z. 

   • 189 line items (25 already filled at the time of meeting)

   • Hoping to help 59 children (23 families) 

   • Venmo account set up for direct monetary donations (CarlTPSC) 

7. Fundraising Update- Jessica Graf

   • Help Needed for 2 events: OshPop & Boosterthon 

   • OshPop Nov. 18th-December 1st  (order pick up on Dec 7th) 

   • Fire Escape Fundraiser Dec. 1st-10th (pick up Dec. 16th) 

   • Facebook posts scheduled for cheesecake, Brighten Someone's Holiday, ZaRonis fundraiser and reminders about spirit wear and Amazon - please comment, like & share whenever possible 

   • Amazon - easier now than ever before, set up your preferred non-profit right in the app (still need to visit smile.amazon.com when checking out on computer) 

   • Box Tops - download app and scan grocery receipts 

8. Motion to Adjourn: Jessica G. 2nd Motion: Sheri S.
    

Next PSC Meeting: January 14th

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• November 25
  • Virtual Turkey Trot!
• November 25-27 
  • No School - Thanksgiving Break
• December 9
  • Early Release
• December 23-January 3
  • Winter Break

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Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

November 13, 2020: Issue 13

Traeger Tales

Model 4 Feedback

Recently families had the opportunity to provide feedback on how Model 4, Virtual Learning, was going for them.  We wanted to know what is going well, how you feel about work load, how families are doing, and suggestions for improvement.  Our grade levels spent some time reviewing the data during collaboration this week and will be using your feedback as they plan for the coming weeks.  We wanted to share some insights from a school level.

Some families had trouble finding silver linings in this storm, but many noted celebrations which included:

• Safety
• Spending time together
• Flexibility
• Seeing growth
• Understanding what is being taught
• Completing work
• Getting into a routine
• 1-1/small groups
• Independence
• Growth in technology skills

Overall, people were comfortable with the workload with a satisfaction rating of over 70% in all areas.  

Many families expressed a desire to return to in person learning.  We want that as well and can't wait until we can safely welcome kids back into school!  In the meantime our staff will continue to do whatever it takes to support our students.   They are working tirelessly to provide a quality education during these unprecedented times.  We appreciate your feedback and will utilize it to make improvements going forward.

~Mrs. G.

 

 

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eAcademy Information

For information and process for enrolling/unenrolling from eAcademy for second semester please visit the eAcademy Website at:  https://www.oshkosh.k12.wi.us/district/school-curriculum/oasd-eacademy 

If you are looking for additional information to further assist with decisions, feel free to reach out to the eAcademy coaches / staff at each level:  

Kim Groth - Elementary - kimberly.groth@oshkosh.k12.wi.us

Melissa Schiek - Elementary - melissa.schiek@oshkosh.k12.wi.us

Jean Framke - Middle School - jean.framke@oshkosh.k12.wi.us

Jennifer Thede, North HS - jennifer.thede@oshkosh.k12.wi.us

Duane Hartkopf, West HS - duane.hartkopf@oshkosh.k12.wi.us

Julie Ruck, SPED Virtual Support Teacher - julie.ruck@oshkosh.k12.wi.us

Lisa Lieder - Program Coordinator - lisa.lieder@oshkosh.k12.wi.us

Marcie Gundlach - Principal - marlene.gundlach@oshkosh.k12.wi.us

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A note from Mrs. Miller media specialist

November Digital Citizenship Topic: Media Balance

Help your kids find balance with technology. 

From phones and tablets to streaming movies and YouTube, tech and media are everywhere. Kids love easy access to shows, games, and information. Parents and caregivers love that kids can learn on the go (and stay busy when dinner's cooking). But it's easy to overdo it when the phone never stops pinging and the next episode plays automatically. Families can keep media and tech use in check by following a few simple practices.

Digital Citizenship is teaching students how to be respectful, responsible, safe, and trustworthy when using technology.

Books, books, books!

Don’t forget all of the ways we can get books into your kiddos hands right now.

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Virtual check ins for K-2 students

Hi everyone! Our school counselor, Ms. Heideman, and behavior interventionist, Mrs. D, will be hosting virtual check ins for Kindergarten, 1st grade, and 2nd grade next week. All students in those grade levels, including eAcademy students, are welcome to join this fun opportunity to check in and chat with each other! Here is the schedule with the links to join!

2nd grade- Tuesday at 11:30 link: https://meet.google.com/ code: ctegrade2

1st grade- Tuesday at 12:00 link https://meet.google.com/ code: ctegrade1

Kindergarten- Wednesday at 11:30 link https://meet.google.com/ code: ctek

We hope to see you there!

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WELCOME TO THE PACK

Jody Pinkerton - Second Grade eAcademy Teacher

I'm excited to be joining Traeger Elementary School! This is my 26th year teaching in the Oshkosh Area School District. I have a degree in Elementary Education with a Math Minor from UW-Whitewater and a Masters in Reading Education from UW-Oshkosh. Reading has always been a passion of mine. My husband, Mark and I have two sons. Lucas is a sophomore at UW-Madison and Logan is a Junior at Oshkosh North. The cutest member of our family is Lola, a poodle/shih tzu mix. As a family we love sports, traveling, and spending time in the outdoors. I look forward to meeting and getting to know the students and families at Traeger Elementary.

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Join us for our Virtual Traeger Turkey Trot. I would love to have as many families join as possible for our Fun Run/Walk on November 25! At any point during the day on November 25, complete a 3.2K (2 mile) run or walk (use MapMyRun.com to create a route). Find a “training schedule” in your child’s specialist google classroom (K-4) to help get you ready for the big race!

Follow Mrs. Wara’s Facebook page (Traeger Elementary Physical Education) to check into the event on the 25th and to post pictures! 

Use this link to order a Traeger Turkey Trot t-shirt.

https://jaegerwi.itemorder.com/ (sale code: trot20).

Shirts can be ordered until Friday, November 13. Shirt pick up will take place at Traeger on Monday 23rd or Tuesday 24th. You will be contacted to arrange a pick up time for your shirts.

Follow the calendar to work up to our virtual 3.2K on November 25. Here are some daily activities/challenges to help get you ready to complete your 3.2K.

Use “Map My Run” (https://www.mapmyrun.com/dashboard) to help keep track of how far you’ve gone. Day of the race, you can either map out your own route or use the track at the high school(s) to help keep track of your distance.

 

Please email Mrs. Wara with any questions! heidi.wara@oshkosh.k12.wi.us 

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Click here to sign up for an item!

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• November 25
  • Virtual Turkey Trot!
• November 25-27 
  • No School - Thanksgiving Break
• December 9
  • Early Release
• December 23-January 3
  • Winter Break

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Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

November 6, 2020: Issue 11

Traeger Tales

The Importance of Attendance

No matter what learning model we are in-Virtual, Hybrid or In Person-we can't educate kids who are not present!  Getting kids to attend school is one of the most important things parents can do!  Here are some points to ponder...

• Absences add up. Even if your child misses just a few days here and there, his/her grades, and most importantly learning, are likely to suffer.
• Elementary attendance impacts reading. Frequent absences in elementary school have been shown to significantly affect a student’s reading skills.
• Elementary attendance problems can negatively impact a student’s future. Research shows that by sixth grade, attendance problems become a leading indicator that a student will drop out of high school.
• Attendance affects social growth. At school, students learn to interact with others, make friends, and build relationships with adults outside their family.

Tips to Improve Attendance in any Learning Model

• Develop routines. Get everything your child needs for school ready the night before. Set out (or have your child set out) clothes, shoes, socks, coat, and backpack.
• Be informed. Know bus pick up times, parent drop off times, and school bell times. Determine what time your child needs to be “out the door” to get to school on time.
• Get support. If you have difficulty getting your child to and from school, or if your child doesn’t seem to want to go to school for any reason, talk to your child’s teacher, school counselor, or an administrator.

Thank you for all you are doing to help your child engage in learning!

~Mrs. G. 😃 

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Are you wondering if you child has library books that need to be returned to school?  You can watch this Video to learn how to access Destiny to see what books your child has checked out from the media center.  This is a great time to round up the books so they can be returned to school next week!

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Model 3 hybrid schedules

On November 12 will resume in person attendance using the new Model 3 Hybrid Schedule.  Students will remain in the same A or B cohort group. 

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WELCOME TO THE PACK

Hannah Moon - Second Grade Teacher

This is the start of my teacher career and I couldn't be happier being a part of such a supportive team! I recently graduated from the University of Wisconsin Green Bay with my bachelor's in education and a minor in First Nation Studies. I completed my student teaching semester in a second-grade class at Oneida Nation Elementary School. It was a privilege to continue to grow in my understanding of cross-cultural education and see first hand how to integrate culture in the classroom. I am a member of Muskogee Creek Nation which is a tribe located in Oklahoma. I come from a big family of nine siblings! Some things I enjoy doing is hiking, biking, and painting! I am also a big traveler. I try to visit one new state every summer. However, this last summer I went on a camping trip instead! Let's get creative this year!

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Traeger celebrates each child’s birthday by wishing students a happy birthday over the morning announcements, and for students with summer birthdays, we announce half birthdays.  Each child receives a birthday book courtesy of the PSC and classrooms also  have birthday traditions.  Per board of education guidelines, birthday treats are not allowed.  If you send a treat we will not be able to serve it.  Should you feel the need to send something, a gift to benefit the class is always welcome.  This could include a book with an inscription written by your child or perhaps a favorite game for indoor recess.  If you choose to celebrate your child’s birthday outside of school, the invitations may not be given out in the classroom, building or playground.  We do not want hurt feelings if a student does not receive an invite. Mailing them or delivering them on your own are great options.  You can use the PSC directory to get this information.

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Join us for our Virtual Traeger Turkey Trot. I would love to have as many families join as possible for our Fun Run/Walk on November 25! At any point during the day on November 25, complete a 3.2K (2 mile) run or walk (use MapMyRun.com to create a route). Find a “training schedule” in your child’s specialist google classroom (K-4) to help get you ready for the big race!

Follow Mrs. Wara’s Facebook page (Traeger Elementary Physical Education) to check into the event on the 25th and to post pictures! 

Use this link to order a Traeger Turkey Trot t-shirt.

https://jaegerwi.itemorder.com/ (sale code: trot20).

Shirts can be ordered until Friday, November 13. Shirt pick up will take place at Traeger on Monday 23rd or Tuesday 24th. You will be contacted to arrange a pick up time for your shirts.

Follow the calendar to work up to our virtual 3.2K on November 25. Here are some daily activities/challenges to help get you ready to complete your 3.2K.

Use “Map My Run” (https://www.mapmyrun.com/dashboard) to help keep track of how far you’ve gone. Day of the race, you can either map out your own route or use the track at the high school(s) to help keep track of your distance.

 

Please email Mrs. Wara with any questions! heidi.wara@oshkosh.k12.wi.us 

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National school psychologist week - November 9-13

For more information on who school psychologists are and what we do, click here! 

How to Contact Your School Psychologist, Ms. Berndt: 

Email: megan.berndt@oshkosh.k12.wi.us

Phone: (920) 385-9671

Virtual Office: Welcome!

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Have You Started Your Holiday Shopping?  Ordering something from Amazon? We have a great way you can start supporting our school while shopping on Amazon. Instead of going to amazon.com, simply go to Amazon Smile at www.smile.amazon.com and designate “Carl Traeger PSC Carl Traeger Elementary” as your charitable organization or go to https://smile.amazon.com/ch/39-1912920 and click on “Start Shopping.” Amazon will donate 0.5% of the price of your eligible AmazonSmile purchases to Carl Traeger PSC Carl Traeger Elementary School whenever you shop on AmazonSmile.   If you shop on the mobile app, you need to set up your account on the Amazon website and then your app purchases will generate funds for Traeger.  AmazonSmile is the same Amazon you know. Same products, same prices, same service.

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PSC Tamara's Cheesecake Fundraiser

Support our school and enjoy some delicious Tamara's cheesecake!  Orders are due November 14th for pick up on November 20 or 21-just in time for Thanksgiving!  The PSC will earn $7 for each cheesecake sold!  Order at the link below!  

https://www.cognitoforms.com/TamarasTheCakeGuru/CheesecakeFundraiserCarlTraegerPSC

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• November 10
  • Parent Teacher Conferences 4-7pm
• November 11
  • Early Release at 12:30pm
• November 12
  • Virtual PSC Meeting 6:00pm
• November 14
  • Cheesecake Fundraiser Orders Due!
• November 25
  • Virtual Turkey Trot!
• November 25-27 
  • No School - Thanksgiving Break

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PSC Agenda - Virtual Meeting

Thursday 11/12/2020, 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Zoom LINK

Who are we?

PSC Board Members

• President: Nichole Casper
• Vice President: Holly Emons
• Co-Secretaries: Heather Swenson & Jessica Graf
• Treasurer: Jen Sorensen

1. Budget Update  - Jen Sorenson - September and October

2. Photography Fundraiser Update - Heather (Not Present - Has conferences at her school). We did not fill all the spots this year but we still raised money for the PSC! Good News - The photographer will do this again next year and we will pick earlier in the year dates. We still raised $912! The photographer will reach out to families on how to get to photos. Any questions - Message Heather on Carl Traeger PSC Facebook.

3. City Wide PTO Report- Nichole Casper

4. Spirit Wear Sale Update - Nichole Casper

5. Brighten Someone's Holiday Update - Katie Z. 

6. Fundraising Update- Jessica Graf

   • Help Needed for 2 events: OshPop & Boosterthon

   • Upcoming Fundraisers... 

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Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

October 30, 2020: Issue 10

Traeger Tales

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STUDENT SUCCESS          STARTS AT HOME

As we reflect on all of our success from the first quarter, we are grateful for the fabulous partnerships we have with our Traeger families! You probably know that a student’s academic success is affected by many factors and this year caregivers have an even greater impact! When it comes to achievement, activities outside the virtual classroom, especially at home, can be just as influential as what happens inside the classroom.

The following are five important areas to emphasize to ensure the success of your children:

• Establish a daily routine by providing a quiet time and place for your children to study. Be firm about bedtimes so the child is well-rested and alert in the classroom. Having dinner together as a family is also important because it gives you an opportunity to talk about your children’s daily school activities, projects, and expectations. Encourage communications through conversation and questioning.

• Monitor your children’s extracurricular activities closely. Whenever possible, arrange specific after school activities or supervised care, always monitor television watching, and install computer software to block inappropriate websites. Also be mindful of video game content. If you can’t be home right after school, call or email frequently to check in with your children, or have a trusted neighbor, relative, or friend stop by. Search out after-school programs and association activities that could serve as alternatives for children going home alone after school.

• Reading books, magazines, and newspapers and talking about what is learned from them is another important aspect to pursue at home. Discussing current events and/or the day’s activities is a good habit to develop. Tell stories, share problems, and write letters, notes, and messages to one another. These types of communication bring families closer together, especially today, when everyone is busy with his or her own individual activities and commitments.

• Stay in touch with teachers and school staff, and express sincere interest in your children’s progress at school. Work together with your children’s teachers to set age-appropriate goals and standards, and to recognize and promote special talents. Compliment your children and share school success stories with family and friends.

• Be a positive role model. Demonstrate ways that achievement relates to hard work and dedication. Discuss the value of a good education to possible career options, and explore ways your children can turn their true interests into satisfying career possibilities.

We are looking forward to our parent teacher conferences on November 5 and 10 to further enhance our home-school partnerships!

~Mrs. G. 😃 

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DEVELOPING  SELF-CONTROL

Even though elementary-aged children may learn rules and understand the importance of following them, they often have trouble with self-control. They sometimes make choices that are disruptive, harmful, or disrespectful, even when they know they shouldn’t.

Here’s how you can help your child develop better self-control and make smarter choices.

Talk about it. Have your child verbalize what he/she should and shouldn’t do in a given situation. (“When I’m mad, I can’t throw things. I should sit down and count to ten.“)

Reward good self-control. When your child exhibits good self-control, compliment him/her. Be specific. (“I can tell you wanted to yell at your brother when he messed up your room, but you didn’t. I’m proud of you.”)

Model good behavior. Adults sometimes do things they know they shouldn’t. For ex- ample, if you’ve taught your child to always be kind to others and never yell, it can be confus- ing to see parents get angry while driving or yell at others when they’re frustrated.

Use the same calming strategies you teach your child (e.g., breathing, walking away, and counting to ten). 

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Honoring our Veterans    

November 11, 2020

If you have a “HOMECOMING PHOTO” or your Military Photo, we would love to share it with our school community. Another option would be to send a short video of a meaningful story about your time of service. In the past we have invited our Veterans to share in the classrooms after the assembly. This video would be an opportunity for students to learn more about your experience. If you could include the year the photo was taken and your name (we also need this information for the video) that would be AWESOME!

Please email a copy of the photo and/or video to teresa.moucha@oskosh.k12.wi.us  

NO LATER THAN NOVEMBER 6th at 3:00 p.m.   

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WELCOME TO THE PACK

Jackie Gill - Media Assistant

Hello, my name is Jackie Gill and I'm the new library assistant, and new to the Oshkosh Area School District this year. I am also a children's book author and illustrator, and have written 6 of the 25 books published that I've illustrated so far. Look me up online under Jacqueline Paske Gill! I grew up in Sarasota, Florida and moved to Neenah with my son Colby, where I worked for the Neenah Joint School District as a substitute teacher for the past 4 years while working on children's books. We live with my boyfriend, Dennis and his 2 kids, Mason and Alexa. Winter is still a big adjustment compared to summer all year round in Florida, which I miss, but I love art and books, and I love working with kids, so the library is the perfect place for me.

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virtual check ins for K-2 students

Hi everyone! Our school counselor, Ms. Heideman, and behavior interventionist, Mrs. D, will be hosting virtual check ins for Kindergarten, 1st grade, and 2nd grade next week. All students in those grade levels, including eAcademy students, are welcome to join this fun opportunity to check in and chat with each other! Here is the schedule with the links to join!

2nd grade- Tuesday at 11:30 link: https://meet.google.com/ code: ctegrade2

1st grade- Tuesday at 12:00 link https://meet.google.com/ code: ctegrade1

Kindergarten- Wednesday at 11:30 link https://meet.google.com/ code: ctek

We hope to see you there!

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Join us for our Virtual Traeger Turkey Trot. I would love to have as many families join as possible for our Fun Run/Walk on November 25! At any point during the day on November 25, complete a 3.2K (2 mile) run or walk (use MapMyRun.com to create a route). Find a “training schedule” in your child’s specialist google classroom (K-4) to help get you ready for the big race!

Follow Mrs. Wara’s Facebook page (Traeger Elementary Physical Education) to check into the event on the 25th and to post pictures! 

Use this link to order a Traeger Turkey Trot t-shirt.

https://jaegerwi.itemorder.com/ (sale code: trot20).

Shirts can be ordered until Friday, November 13. Shirt pick up will take place at Traeger on Monday 23rd or Tuesday 24th. You will be contacted to arrange a pick up time for your shirts.

Follow the calendar to work up to our virtual 3.2K on November 25. Here are some daily activities/challenges to help get you ready to complete your 3.2K.

Use “Map My Run” (https://www.mapmyrun.com/dashboard) to help keep track of how far you’ve gone. Day of the race, you can either map out your own route or use the track at the high school(s) to help keep track of your distance.

 

Please email Mrs. Wara with any questions! heidi.wara@oshkosh.k12.wi.us 

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PSC Tamara's Cheesecake Fundraiser

Support our school and enjoy some delicious Tamara's cheesecake!  Orders are due November 14th for pick up on November 20 or 21-just in time for Thanksgiving!  The PSC will earn $7 for each cheesecake sold!  Order at the link below!  

https://www.cognitoforms.com/TamarasTheCakeGuru/CheesecakeFundraiserCarlTraegerPSC

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An investment in schools is an investment in our community's quality of life. This 90-second video answers the "Why now?" question related to our capital funding request on the November 3rd ballot. We understand that we are living in challenging times. In fact, it is why the phased-in tax impact of question 2 is so important. However, we also know that as a community we must come together to build our future. Ultimately, voters have the chance to take advantage of the "Why now?" opportunities outlined in the video and explained further in our FAQ section on our referendum webpage.

To learn more about the two referendum questions visit www.oshkosh.k12.wi.us/referendum.

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• November 5
  • Parent Teacher Conferences 4-7pm
• November 10
  • Parent Teacher Conferences 4-7pm
• November 11
  • Facebook Live Veterans Day slideshow 11:00am
  • Early Release at 12:30pm
• November 25
  • Virtual Turkey Trot!
• November 25-27 
  • No School - Thanksgiving Break

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Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

October 22, 2020: Issue 9

Traeger Tales

Honoring our Veterans    

November 11, 2020

Thank you so much for your service to America! We are so grateful for your dedication, responsibility, and respect for our country.

This year we would like to honor our veterans through a LIVE sharing of our Veterans Day Video on our Traeger Facebook Page. We will air it at 11:00 a.m. on 11/11. In the past we have had a large school assembly and breakfast. This year we wanted to keep this school tradition alive in a way that would be meaningful to our students, families, and Veterans. It is so important for all of us to remember and honor those who have been members of the Armed Forces. We are really excited to meet you and learn more about you!

We have one request. If you have a “HOMECOMING PHOTO” or your Military Photo, we would love to share it with our school community. Another option would be to send a short video of a meaningful story about your time of service. In the past we have invited our Veterans to share in the classrooms after the assembly. This video would be an opportunity for students to learn more about your experience. If you could include the year the photo was taken and your name (we also need this information for the video) that would be AWESOME!

Please email a copy of the photo and/or video to teresa.moucha@oskosh.k12.wi.us  

NO LATER THAN NOVEMBER 6th at 3:00 p.m.

With Sincere Gratitude,

The Veteran’s Day Planning Committee     

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One of our annual Traeger traditions is our Halloween costume parade.  Whether we are in person or continue to be virtual, we will not be able to hold our parade in our normal manner.  This year we are going to do a virtual parade with a slideshow.  Mrs. Kidd sent out a Google form so you can send in a picture of your child in his/her Halloween costume.  Please remember that this slideshow will be viewed by Kindergarten through 5th graders so keep your costumes appropriate; nothing too scary, no weapons, and don't cover your face.  Photos are due by October 28.  If you misplaced the email, please contact Mrs. Kidd at abigail.cornell@oshkosh.k12.wi.us

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Carl Traeger Elementary School

Virtual K-5 Parent-Teacher Conferences

November 5 and November 10 from 4:00-7:00pm

Dear Traeger Families,

On November 5 and 10 we will be holding virtual Parent-Teacher Conferences for Carl Traeger K-5 students.  The focus of this conference will be your child’s progress this year and how we can continue work together as a team to make your child's educational experiences successful.  

Once again, this year you will be signing up for Parent Teacher Conferences Online.  Conference registration will open at 4:00pm on October 22.

Due to limited slots, one slot per family per child.  Dates available will be on a first come, first serve basis.  So, please sign-up early for a 15 minute conference slot for your child.

To pick a slot, enter this link in your internet browser:

http://www.ptcfast.com/schools/Carl_Traeger_Elementary

Registration Deadline:  October 30 at 3:00pm - Parents who do not sign up will be scheduled and sent an appointment.

If you would like to schedule a conference with our art, music or physical education specialists please email them directly and they will reach out to you to set up a conference.

• K-4 Music Mrs. Schmidt <jennifer.schmidt@oshkosh.k12.wi.us>
• K-4 Art Ms. Moucha <teresa.moucha@oshkosh.k12.wi.us>
• K-4 PE Mrs. Wara <heidi.wara@oshkosh.k12.wi.us>
• Amel, Nyman, Purtell Music Ms. Schneider (long term sub for Mrs. Cibula)<april.schneider@oshkosh.k12.wi.us>
• Amel, Nyman, Purtell Art Ms. Larson <jenna.larson@oshkosh.k12.wi.us>
• Amel, Nyman, Purtell PE Mrs. Zerbe <traci.zerbe@oshkosh.k12.wi.us>

If you have any questions or need assistance scheduling your conference, please contact Carl Traeger Elementary at 920-424-0221.

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WELCOME TO THE PACK

Jenna Larson - Art Specialist

 

Hi! My name is Jenna Larson and I am excited to be joining the Carl Traeger staff as an art teacher! Although this is my first year teaching, I have spent the past (almost!) 20 years as a Substitute Teacher in the Oshkosh Area School District and as an active part of the Fox Valley art community. My husband and I have three amazing children, ages 14, 12, and 10. In our free time we enjoy adventuring, creating, playing, laughing, and relaxing together. If I am not creating art, you will most likely find me in the garden, on the tennis court, or in the kitchen! I look forward to joining the staff of Carl Traeger and having a fun and creative school year!

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Internet Tips

District-wide we are hearing of so many internet issues. We try to troubleshoot as best as we can, but we have also compiled a list of some other things that you can try too. Check to see if any of these will help!

• If possible, turn your camera off in Google Meet. This lowers the bandwidth that is getting used.

• Disconnect all devices that are using the WiFi network (cell phones, tablets, etc) that aren’t a school device during work time. Multiple devices connecting will slow everything down.

• Close tabs that you do not need for what you’re working on. The more tabs that are open and running, the slower it will be for you.

• Music/video streaming can bog down the wifi, be aware if you are working and having music playing from your device at the same time.

• Avoid Streaming Media on another device on the same network. 

• Clear browsing history, cache, and cookies.

• Your wireless router sitting in the dark corner of the basement is not the best place to have it. Preferably on the same level that you’re working and not having to go through many walls or even worse, walls with pipes in them.

• If you are having troubles with your device connecting to the internet try testing it out at the Public Library or McDonalds/Starbucks. If it is not having problems at either of those locations it might be your Router or an issue with your connection to your ISP.

•  Reboot your modem or router

• Upgrade your modem or router - recommended every two years as equipment becomes obsolete with new technology. Check with your internet service provider if there is an upgrade or a newer modem that you need.

Make your teacher aware if your internet connection is preventing you from accessing an assignment or materials needed for an assignment.

virtual check ins for 3-5 students

Ms. Heideman and Mrs. D will be hosting grade level gatherings for 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders again next week! All Traeger students, including eAcademy students, are welcome to join! Here is the schedule and links to join!

• 5th grade: Tuesday, October 27th at 12:00 link: https://meet.google.com/  join code: ctegrade5
• 4th grade: Thursday, October 29th at 11:30 link: https://meet.google.com/ join code: ctegrade4
• 3rd grade: Friday, October 30th at 12:00 link: https://meet.google.com/ join code: ctegrade3

We hope to see you there!

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• October 23
  • No School
• October 28
  • Halloween costume pictures due to Google form for costume parade
• November 4
  • Picture Day if in person
• November 5
  • Picture Day if in person
  • Parent Teacher Conferences 4-7pm
• November 10
  • Parent Teacher Conferences 4-7pm
• November 11
  • Facebook Live Veterans Day slideshow 11:00am
  • Early Release at 12:30pm
• November 25-27 
  • No School - Thanksgiving Break

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Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

October 16, 2020: Issue 8

Traeger Tales

Feeling All My Feelings

Children whose parents support them when they express feelings have stronger social skills and better friendships. Just like adults, children feel different emotions such as happiness, sadness, embarrassment, and anger. Children’s emotions get more complex as they get older. This can be hard for children to understand. You can help by talking to them about how they feel in different situations.

Happy: glad, cheerful, calm, safe, playful, proud, joyful

Sad: gloomy, unhappy, hurt, disappointed, lonely, awful

Mad: annoyed, mean, crabby

Afraid: anxious, worried, concerned, alarmed, trembly

What we know:

• Parents teach children about emotions when they talk about how they feel and show feelings at home.
• When parents show more happiness and joy, their children also show more happy feelings and have a greater understanding of emotions.

Try this:

Teach your child about emotions by choosing different words to share how you feel. Try using words like “grateful” or “disappointed” instead of “happy” and “sad.”

For fun:

Use movies or TV shows to start a conversation about emotions. Grab some popcorn and cuddle up to watch Inside Out for your next movie night. In this movie, the main character, Riley, feels mixed emotions for the first time. You hear what’s going on inside Riley’s brain while she’s going through big life changes – like moving to a new city. Children may relate to what Riley is feeling, helping them to understand their own and others’ emotions.

Here are a few questions that you could ask your child about the movie:

• What feelings did you have during the movie? Joy? Excitement? Sadness?
• How did Riley feel during the movie?  Why do you think she felt that way?
• Can you tell me about a time that you felt angry? Or joyful?
• What helped Riley feel better? What helps you to feel better when you’re sad?

For more information, read this Parent Toolkit article on using Inside Out as a parenting opportunity.

~ Mrs. G. 😃 (Source: UW Extension)

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october counselor's corner

By Kaelee Heideman

October is National Bullying Prevention Month!
Bullying has become an issue we are increasingly aware of. It can occur in many forms. It is important to recognize the different forms bullying can take and how to get help if it is happening.

What’s the difference between bullying and peer conflict?
The core components of bullying are: unwanted aggressive behavior; observed or perceived power imbalance; and repetition of behaviors or high likelihood of repetition (stopbullying.gov). One child may be bullying another if every day on the playground they are name calling or hitting. The power imbalance may come into play if a third grader is doing this to a first grader.

Peer conflict, however, is something that happens once. Sometimes our friends might say something unkind or might push us. While these behaviors are unexpected and have consequences, they are not considered bullying because they happen just one time. Peer conflict can often be resolved through mediation with a teacher, counselor, or supervisor. Peer conflict is a natural part of life and happens all throughout our lives. 

What is cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying is bullying that takes place over digital devices, including cell phones, computers, and tablets. Cyberbullying might occur through texting, emails, and various apps or social media forums. Cyberbullying includes sending, posting, or sharing negative, harmful, false, or mean content about someone else. The content is often meant to cause embarrassment or humiliation. Some cyberbullying even crosses the line into unlawful or criminal behavior. Students sometimes assume they can get away with sending this content because it “disappears” or is “anonymous,” but there are always ways to track down the harmful content. Cyberbullying incidents are increasing in frequency, especially as children are spending more time doing things virtually.

How can I prevent cyberbullying?
The most important thing you can do is be aware of how your student is using technology. What apps are they allowed to have on their phone? Who are their contacts? What is the primary purpose of them having a phone, computer, or tablet? Be sure to have a way for your student to let you know if they are receiving inappropriate content or are witnessing it being sent to someone else. If your student reports cyberbullying to you, know which outlets are most appropriate to report to. You can report inappropriate and offensive content on social media apps directly to the platform.

If you have questions or concerns about a student who is being bullied, you can always reach out to Ms. Heideman, our school counselor, for support through email: kaelee.heideman@oshkosh.k12.wi.us

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Carl Traeger Elementary School

Virtual K-5 Parent-Teacher Conferences

November 5 and November 10 from 4:00-7:00pm

Dear Traeger Families,

On November 5 and 10 we will be holding virtual Parent-Teacher Conferences for Carl Traeger K-5 students.  The focus of this conference will be your child’s progress this year and how we can continue work together as a team to make your child's educational experiences successful.  

Once again, this year you will be signing up for Parent Teacher Conferences Online.  Conference registration will open at 4:00pm on October 22.

Due to limited slots, one slot per family per child.  Dates available will be on a first come, first serve basis.  So, please sign-up early for a 15 minute conference slot for your child.

To pick a slot, enter this link in your internet browser:

http://www.ptcfast.com/schools/Carl_Traeger_Elementary

Registration Deadline:  October 30 at 3:00pm - Parents who do not sign up will be scheduled and sent an appointment.

If you would like to schedule a conference with our art, music or physical education specialists please email them directly and they will reach out to you to set up a conference.

• K-4 Music Mrs. Schmidt <jennifer.schmidt@oshkosh.k12.wi.us>
• K-4 Art Ms. Moucha <teresa.moucha@oshkosh.k12.wi.us>
• K-4 PE Mrs. Wara <heidi.wara@oshkosh.k12.wi.us>
• Amel, Nyman, Purtell Music Ms. Schneider (long term sub for Mrs. Cibula)<april.schneider@oshkosh.k12.wi.us>
• Amel, Nyman, Purtell Art Ms. Larson <jenna.larson@oshkosh.k12.wi.us>
• Amel, Nyman, Purtell PE Mrs. Zerbe <traci.zerbe@oshkosh.k12.wi.us>

If you have any questions or need assistance scheduling your conference, please contact Carl Traeger Elementary at 920-424-0221.

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WELCOME TO THE PACK

Elizabeth Barczak - 4K Assistant

Hi! My name is Elizabeth Barczak and I am the new 4K para working with Mrs. Gorski and Ms. Czap. I have 14 years of teaching experience and LOVE the 4Kers! I live in Neenah with my husband, twin boys who are 10 (Caleb and Sam), and two cats (Boris and Pickles). During the spring quarantine, I learned the new skill of refinishing furniture. I've refinished many pieces of my own, and also some pieces for friends. My other hobbies include gardening, reading, doing jigsaw puzzles, and being outside.

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Digital Citizenship Week 

October 19-23, 2020

Dear OASD Families,

We teach our students to be responsible, respectful, safe, and trustworthy. This includes when they’re on a device too! We know our students are online right now more than usual. That’s why talking about digital citizenship topics is so very important. D.C. topics include communicating online with others, privacy, media balance, copyright, cyberbullying, and how to determine real VS fake information.

For the past few years, OASD has recognized the National Digital Citizenship Week at our schools. This year we are offering a few opportunities for you to do with you children at home as well.

1. Digital Learning Agreement: Read through this together with your child.

• K-5th Digital Learning Pledge

• 6th-12th Digital Learning Agreement

2. Police Officer Video: Watch this video put together by Officer Tori Heidemann of the OAPD and a teacher at Oshkosh North High School.

• 3rd-5th Video (Parents, watch this first and decide if it’s appropriate for your kids. There is one sensitive topic.)

• 6th-12th Video (Warning: the topic of sexting is addressed.)

3. Interact Module: WDOJ- Internet Crimes Against Children Unit created this module for parents and kids to do together. It’s meant for starting a discussion around these topics. 

• Interact 6th-12th/Parent Module

Parents only: 

• Guide to Setting up Parental Controls

• Follow our Internet Safety Resources for Parents Facebook page

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virtual check ins for K-2 students

Hi everyone! Our school counselor, Ms. Heideman, and behavior interventionist, Mrs. D, will be hosting virtual check ins for Kindergarten, 1st grade, and 2nd grade next week. All students in those grade levels, including eAcademy students, are welcome to join this fun opportunity to check in and chat with each other! Here is the schedule with the links to join!

2nd grade: Tuesday, October 20th at 11:30 am              https://meet.google.com/  code: 2ndgrade

1st grade: Tuesday, October 20th at 11:00 am                https://meet.google.com/  code: 1stgrade

Kindergarten: Wednesday, October 21st at 11:30 am  https://meet.google.com/ code: kindergarten

We hope to see you there!

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This November’s election is not just about electing our next president and other leaders - it’s also about school funding for the Oshkosh Area School District. Read our Referendum at a Glance (bit.ly/3mYlTiO) for the quick facts about the two ballot questions - or learn even more on our referendum webpage - www.oshkosh.k12.wi.us/referendum.

 

• October 23
  • No School
• November 4
  • Picture Day if in person
• November 5
  • Picture Day if in person
  • Parent Teacher Conferences 4-7pm
• November 10
  • Parent Teacher Conferences 4-7pm
• November 11
  • Early Release at 12:30pm
• November 25-27 
  • No School - Thanksgiving Break

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Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

October 9, 2020: Issue 7

Traeger Tales

Model 4 -Virtual Learning

The pandemic has certainly changed the face of education.  This year we have to be prepared to shift back and forth between in person, hybrid, and virtual models of education.  Decisions about the safest model for learning will be made based on community data.  Follow the LINK to the OASD COVID dashboard.  

At this time we will be continuing with Model 4 (virtual learning) and want to share what you can expect during this time.  There will be a combination of live (synchronous) and recorded (asynchronous) instruction.  All Traeger teachers will be using Google Classroom as our platform for housing instructional resources.  Each week you will find “A Week at a Glance” posted on the first page or stream within Google Classroom.  This provides an overview of what your child will be doing for the week.  Staff continue to reflect and revise their Google Classroom layout to make it more user friendly.  Teachers will continue to follow our district curriculum, making adjustments as needed for the virtual environment.  We will follow our normal pacing and teach our district standards.  

Each day your child will be able to participate in a live morning meeting at a set time.  These meetings will not be recorded as they are often very personal in nature.  Students will receive math lessons at least 4 days a week and may be live or pre-recorded depending on the content being taught.  Live math lessons will be recorded so students not in attendance can access the material.  Number Corner will also be pre-recorded and posted each day.  A daily read aloud will also be live or prerecorded (live sessions will be recorded).  Daily prerecorded reading and writing lessons will be posted. In grades K-3 recorded daily pre-recorded phonics lessons will also be posted.  At least one science lesson will be posted weekly.  Most lessons will typically have follow up independent learning activities.

In addition to these lessons, teachers will be incorporating more opportunities for kids to meet with their teacher, with a goal of working toward 3 weekly individual or small group live opportunities per student (this will vary for our split class teachers).  This helps teachers check in with students and provide more individualized learning opportunities and feedback throughout the week.  

Our specialist teachers will also post “A Week at a Glance” in your child’s specialist Google Classroom which will include both synchronous and asynchronous learning.   Art, music, and PE teachers will host a live session once a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at a set time.  These sessions will be recorded and posted for students who are unable to attend the live session.  Specialist resources support a week of learning based on when your child has a live lesson.  Specialists will also be offering opportunities for students to connect in small groups on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  You can also find lessons and activities from our school counselor, Ms. Heideman in the specialist classroom.

Teachers will continue to assess and grade during virtual learning, which is different from last spring.  Students may be submitting pictures of assignments, turning in electronic assignments, recording videos in Flipgrid, participating in live assessments along with other means of assessment.  Teachers may also be using some of their small group time to assess students.  Some assessments are informal and are used to guide instruction.  Other assessments will be graded and entered into our electronic gradebook in Infinite Campus.  

We know parents are continuing to work and our goal is to have students be as independent as possible with their learning.  It is important that children complete all of the lessons/activities assigned as lessons will continue to build on previous learning.  Videos are a wonderful resource as children can pause and re-watch if they did not get the concept the first time.  Do not feel like you need to watch all the videos.  It is very easy to feel the need to ensure that all your child’s work is 100% accurate; however, we want students to have the opportunity to learn from mistakes.   Please allow your child to engage in productive struggle as this is when learning occurs! 

If you have any questions about your child’s education, I encourage you to reach out to your child’s teacher.  Now more than ever we appreciate your participation and partnership!

~ Mrs. G. 😃 

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Referendum At A Glance

Remember to Vote on the School Referendums Nov. 3rd!

The November 3rd election is not just about our next president and other leaders - it’s also about whether the Oshkosh Area School District will receive continued operational funds and investments in our school buildings. 

If voters approve question one, the district will be able to maintain academic programs, technology for learning, and student support services - with no tax increase. If voters approve question 2, capital funds would be used to provide safe and accessible schools, flexible and collaborative learning spaces, and cost-effective schools to maximize taxpayer investment. If the referendums are not approved, the district will face millions in budget cuts and continued maintenance of aging buildings without the benefit of important improvements.

Be sure to learn about the two referendum questions (visit https://www.oshkosh.k12.wi.us/referendum) and vote on or before November 3rd. Everything you need to find out where, when, and how to vote is on the MyVoteWisconsin website.

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virtual check ins for 3-5 students

Hi everyone! Our school counselor, Ms. Heideman, and behavior interventionist, Mrs. D, will be hosting virtual check ins for 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades next week. All students in those grade levels, including eAcademy students, are welcome to join this fun opportunity to check in and chat with each other! 

5th grade: Tuesday, October 13th at 12:00 pm 

4th grade: Wednesday, October 14th at 11:30 am 

3rd grade: Friday, October 16th at 11:30 am 
We hope to see you there!

WELCOME TO THE PACK

Megan Berndt - School Psychologist

Hi everyone! My name is Ms. Berndt or Ms. B, and I am the new school psychologist! This is my first year as a school psych, and I'm so excited to be here at Traeger Elementary! The past couple of years I was a substitute and summer school teacher. I'm currently finishing up my graduate studies at UW-Milwaukee, and before that, I attended Marquette University, in which I studied elementary education and psychology. I love to spend a lot of time outdoors and stay active by backpacking, biking, and boxing! I also really enjoy photography and music! A life goal of mine is to one day get my private pilot license! I look forward to meeting and working with all of you!

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A note from Mrs. Miller media specialist

Books, books, books!

Click here to see all of the ways we can get books into your kiddos hands right now.

Something new that is not listed on this document is audiobooks. We are so excited to have just subscribed to Tales2Go. This subscription allows students to listen (only) to a book and there are thousands of titles! Here are the directions for getting started. An exciting feature is that you can download the app onto a tablet or phone at home to make it easier to listen to for car rides!

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Bullying Prevention Month

October is National Bullying Prevention Month.  Children's literature is a great springboard for learning and talking about this important issue.  Below are great titles followed by conversation starters on the topic of bullying.

Books About Bullying for Children

-Junkyard Wonders by Patricia Polacco

-Bully by Patricia Polacco

-I Walk With Vanessa: A Story About a Simple Act of Kindness by Kerascoët

-Chick-O-Saurus Rex by Lenore and Daniel Jennewein

-Arnie and the New Kid by Nancy Carlson

-Red by Jan De Kinder

-The Juice Box Bully by Maria Dismondy

-My Friend Maggie by Hannah E. Harrison

-First Day in Grapes by L. King Perez

-The Smallest Girl in the Smallest Grade by Justin Roberts

-Spirit Day by Joy Yang

-The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes

-Save Me a Seat by Sarah Weeks 

Conversation Starters About Bullying

-Have you ever witnessed someone being bullied? How did it make you feel? What did you do?

-How did the main character in the story deal with bullying? 

-What can you do to stop bullying?

-What do you want others to know about bullying?

-Why do you think some people choose to bully?

-Have you ever been bullied? 

 

Source: https://growingbookbybook.com

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• October 14
  • Early Release
  • No 4K Classes
• October 23
  • No School

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PSC Agenda: Thursday 10/8/2020, 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Who are we? PSC Board Members                

President: Nichole Casper Vice President: Holly Emons
Co-Secretaries: Heather Swenson & Jessica Graf Treasurer: Jen Sorensen

 

1. Budget Update  - Jen Sorenson (Not Present) - Will table for next meeting.

2. Virtual Book Fair - Mary Geffers

   • $2,042 in sales as of today for the online book fair. $510.50 for scholastic books. 

3. Photography fundraiser update 

   • Saturday Oct. 17th 10:30AM and Saturday Oct. 24th 1:00PM. $95 for 5 edited photos and a disc. Lots of spots left. Sarah Bradway and Amanda Sue Hurray volunteered in September (not present- Heather will reach out to them separately).

4. Ideas for Covid safe fundraiser:

• Community Connection Us Cellular Fundraiser: $406 made 

• Raise Monday Campaign - no strings attached. Just a fundraiser for the PSC. Jenny B. and Mary G. can check with middle school PTO, they do something similar. Table for next meeting. 

5. City Wide PTO Report- Nichole Casper

• Last meeting was all about the referendum. There is a 18minute video available and will be posted. Next meeting is Oct. 15th via zoom. Reach out for an invite. 

 6. Brighten Someone's Day -Katie Z. 

• Paypal/Venmo account to receive donations? People would need to comment what the donation is for so funds are for Brighten Someone’s Day. Nichole will have the secretary set this up.  

• How can we make this happen safely? No contact drop off during school hours. Katie can pick up after. 

• Restrictions on # of families and gifts? Maybe” 2 needs a want” to limit gifts and families to make this work Katie will check into this. 

  7. Scouts: Wreaths Sale going on right now to support Scouts. Reach out if you need some! 

 8. End of meeting. Mary Geffers - Motion to close.  Mandy Stein -Second motion. 

Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

October 2, 2020: Issue 6

Traeger Tales

Changing the Way You Look at the World

If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change – Wayne Dyer.

Perspective taking requires you to put yourself in another person’s position and imagine what you would feel, think, or do if you were in that situation. Perspective taking helps children to be more successful as adults because they are better able to deal with other people. Seeing and understanding the world from someone else’s point of view is an important life skill you can teach children to build healthy and satisfying relationships.

Perspective-taking is thinking about how another person might feel and think when something is happening.  This may also be called their point of view.

What we know:

Children with better perspective-taking skills are less likely to be involved in conflicts with other children. It helps them know how to behave in social situations, care for others, communicate effectively, solve problems, and work together. Understanding what others are thinking also helps children feel more comfortable in new situations.

Try this:

Take time to listen to your child. When you listen and care about their thoughts and feelings, you demonstrate how to care about another person’s point of view. Over time, children learn how to care about another person’s point of view because they have felt it themselves. As parents you can:

• model how to look for and listen to another person’s perspective,
• explain your own views and talk about your thoughts and feelings, and
• talk with your children about the possible feelings and thoughts of someone else.

Check out this Michigan State Extension resource to learn more ways to help develop perspective taking.

For fun:

Consider reading some of the books about point of view on Adrienne Gear’s list with your children to help them gain a better understanding of someone else’s perspective.

~Mrs. G. (Source UW Extension)

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Referendum At A Glance

Future funding for all Oshkosh Area Schools and our school buildings will be decided by voters in the November 3 election. Question one would renew existing funds for operating our schools, paying our staff, and providing learning materials. Question two would provide funding to invest in school building improvements across the district - for safe, flexible, and cost-effective schools. Learn more about what will happen if the questions are or or not approved in this Referendum At A Glance or by visiting the referendum website. 

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MISSING BOOKS!  CAN YOU HELP?

Our PSC has generously donated thousands of dollars over the last few years to help us purchase books for our guided reading library.  We are currently missing approximately $1000 in books.  Could you please check your homes and send any books that you may find back to school?  Thank you in advance for your help!

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WELCOME TO THE PACK

Leigh Wiitanen - Educational Interpreter

I have been with OASD for 15+ years as an sign language interpreter. I have worked at all levels (EC-HS). Currently working as the sign language interpreter with 4k in the afternoons and working the other half of my day as a cross cat paraprofessional. I am a military wife to a deployed soldier in the Army Reserves. We just celebrated 14 years of marriage. We have a 6 year old son Ethan and a 4 year old daughter Trinity. We live in Appleton.  We love the outdoors, spending time at our family cottage in the Dells and soaking up family time.
 

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• October 5 
  • Blue Shirt Day to Stomp Out Bullying
• October 6
  • Traeger Colors Theme Day
• October 7
  • Pajama Theme Day
• October 8
  • Work Out Theme Day
  • PSC 6:00
• October 9
  • Spooky Theme Day
• October 14
  • Early Release
  • No 4K Classes
• October 23
  • No School

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PSC Virtual Meeting Agenda 

Zoom Link

Thursday 10/8/2020, 6:00-7:00 p.m. 

Who are we?

PSC Board Members

President: Nichole Casper

Vice President: Holly Emons
Co-Secretaries: Heather Swenson & Jessica Graf

Treasurer: Jen Sorensen

1. Budget Update  - Jen Sorenson 

2. Virtual Book Fair - Mary Geffers

3. Photography fundraiser update  

4. Ideas for Covid safe fundraisers

5. City Wide PTO Report- Nichole Casper

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Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

September 25, 2020: Issue 5

Traeger Tales

PBIS Home-School Connection

Schools that implement PBIS utilize school-wide behavior expectations to communicate how students should behave in all areas of the building. When students demonstrate the expected behavior, they are recognized for “doing the right thing.” At Traeger we do this with our blue/pink Pride Prints that are given to individual students. When a whole class is following the Traeger Way they will receive a class Pride Print.

When students demonstrate inappropriate behavior, they are re-taught the behavior expected from them. For serious misbehavior, an office discipline referral is initiated. Each school’s behavior expectations are unique because the expectations are determined by the building staff.

Many parents have found that using the same expectations as their child’s school has also supported behavior at home. When home and school have the same behavior expectations and use the same language it is easier for children to make good decisions.

Working Together

Parents can support positive behavior for their child by:

1. Requesting a copy of the School and/or Classroom Expectations Matrix.

2. Placing a copy on the refrigerator for easy reference.

3. Discussing the expectations with their child.

4. When contacted regarding problem behavior, refer to the Matrix and discuss the correct choice their child could have made. 

Thank you for your support!  Mrs. G. 😃

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COVID DATA AND SYMPTOMS

In an effort to still track return to school dates for students, we would like you to continue to notify your student's school when they have symptoms, have tested positive or have been a close contact/household contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID. Please either call 920-424-0221 or email elizabeth.lynch@oshkosh.k12.wi.us 

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Our annual Scholastic Book Fair is online this year from September 20th through October 3rd.  It may not be as fun as our in-person fair, but there are definitely some perks --  shop in your pajamas and no waiting in line to check out.  Traeger families have been so generous in past years, raising almost $10,000 in sales at our in-person fairs.  My goal is to raise at least $5,000 in sales during this two week online fair.  Books make great gifts, so don't forget to shop for those upcoming birthdays and the holidays are right around the corner.
Please click on the link below ... happy shopping!
Thanks for your support!

Mary Geffers

geffersmj@yahoo.com

https://www.scholastic.com/bf/traegerelementaryschool

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School Funding Requests on Nov. 3 Ballot

The Oshkosh Area School District has two school funding requests on the Nov. 3 ballot:

• Q1: renew existing funds for school operations

• Q2: invest capital funds to improve district school buildings

If voters approve Q1, funds would support academic programs, technology for learning and student support services - with no tax increase.

If voters approve Q2, funds would be invested in our school buildings to improve safety and accessibility, provide more flexible learning spaces, address building maintenance needs and create more cost-effective schools.

Learn more at www.oshkosh.k12.wi.us/referendum. 

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A note from Mrs. Miller media specialist

Chromebook help

If you are having technical difficulties at home with your chromebook, please email: maggie.miller@oshkosh.k12.wi.us (me) I will reach out to you and we will get your issue resolved!

E-books

Did you know that we have ebooks to check out? Watch this video to see how to do that!

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Picture Days

We have rescheduled our picture days to November 4 and 5.

In order to eliminate the mixing of cohorts, there are specific time blocks set aside for our eAcademy families: 

-November 4 - 9:00AM-11:30AM on the Stage

-November 5 - 11:00AM-1:30PM on the Stage

Follow the LINK to order online!

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Virtual Attendance/Participation

It is the parent's responsibility to take attendance (instructions below) on their child's virtual learning days. 

-If you do take attendance, it will be recorded as present and nothing will show up on your child's attendance tab.

-If you forget to take attendance, it will automatically change to "XDLD" (exempt digital learning day) at 11:59 PM.  This does not hurt your child's attendance and does not count against their 10 days.

-The system does not allow our office  to make any changes to your child's virtual day attendance.  Only the parent can check them in and if you forget, the XDLD will remain on your child's attendance.

Instructions for taking Virtual Attendance

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WELCOME TO THE PACK

Wendy Dey - Paraprofessional

Hello! My name is Wendy Dey (students call me Mrs. Dey (like "eye")) and I am a paraprofessional. This is my first year at Carl Traeger Elementary but my 13th year in the district. My most recent position was working at Oakwood as a 4K para. I am so excited to get to know the students and families here at Carl Traeger. My husband Willis and I have 4 adult children. Two are out of college living their adult lives and my youngest 2 are twins and in their 3rd year of college. In my free time, I love being outside, hanging out with my family, walking my 2 dogs, and exercising at the Y. I can already tell that the Traeger School family is special and am happy to be here.

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BLUE SHIRT DAY-OCTOBER 5

Have you been bullied? Chances are you have.

According to Stomp Out Bullying, a national anti-bullying program website, one in every four children is bullied. Indeed, it is estimated that 160,000 students nationwide miss school each day because they fear a bully.

On October 5 the Carl Traeger Elementary Community would like to bring awareness to the issue of bullying by participating in a world day of bullying prevention known as “Blue Shirt Day”. On Monday, October 5, we invite all members of the Carl Traeger Elementary staff, students, parents, and visitors to join us in wearing blue to bring awareness to the issue of bullying. We further invite you to discuss bullying in your homes with your children, as well as ways to maintain healthy friendships at home and at school. Only when children feel safe are they able to learn.

For more information about Blue Shirt Day, the world wide day of bullying prevention, please visit www.stompoutbullying.org.

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• October 5 
  • Blue Shirt Day to Stomp Out Bullying
• October 8
  • PSC 6:00
• October 14
  • Early Release
  • No 4K Classes
• October 23
  • No School

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Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

September 18, 2020: Issue 4

Traeger Tales

Is That a Good Choice?

Will children always make the choice we want them to make? No; and that’s okay! At times, we may be upset with decisions children make. As children grow older and become more independent, they will make more decisions on their own. It is natural to want to help children make good decisions. It can be hard to let them face a bad outcome and learn how their choices impact themselves and other people. Parents and caregivers help children to think through and make responsible choices.

Good judgement develops through practice and reflection.

What we know:

Each child is learning about life.  They are learning about how they fit in.  They are learning how what they do impacts the people and things around them. When children are told they made a bad choice, they tend to give up without fixing the problem.  When this happens they also don’t learn how to do something differently the next time.

Try this:

According to Myrna Shure’s book Raising a Thinking Child, teaching children to pause and think about what might happen before acting can help them to see different options.  Asking “what could you do different next time?” or saying, “let’s think of another option” can help a child think about other ways to problem solve. Follow these steps (outlined in our video “Perspective“) to help kids practice problem solving and make good choices:

1. First, find out what the problem is by asking your child what happened or what is the matter. Then ask how your child feels.
2. Next, ask your child what he or she did and ask how that made them feel.
3. Once you understand what happened, ask if they can think of other ways to solve the problem. Help your child to think of a several ideas and talk about which ones are best.

When we help children think about and talk about their problems, we can help them learn to make good choices. You can read more at Aha!Parenting.com about how helping your child develop good judgement builds responsibility and helps them make decisions that are right for their age. If you want to learn more you may want to sign up for a University of Wisconsin – Extension Raising a Thinking Child class. Contact your local UW-Extension office for more information.

Print this as a 1-page handout (Is That a Good Choice?, PDF).

~Mrs. G. (Source UW Extension)

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Picture Days

We will have 2 picture days this year to accommodate our A/B schedule.  They will be held on September 28 and 29 during the school day.  

In order to eliminate the mixing of cohorts, there are specific time blocks set aside for our eAcademy families: 

-September 28 - 9:00AM-11:30AM on the Stage

-September 29 - 11:00AM-1:30PM on the Stage

Follow the LINK to order online!

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Virtual Attendance/Participation

It is the parent's responsibility to take attendance (instructions below) on their child's virtual learning day. 

-If you do take attendance, it will be recorded as present and nothing will show up on your child's attendance tab.

-If you forget to take attendance, it will automatically change to "XDLD" (exempt digital learning day) at 11:59 PM.  This does not hurt your child's attendance and does not count against their 10 days.

-The system does not allow our office  to make any changes to your child's virtual day attendance.  Only the parent can check them in and if you forget, the XDLD will remain on your child's attendance.

Instructions for taking Virtual Attendance

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WELCOME TO THE PACK

Jackie Chapman - ESOL Teacher

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Hello Everyone! My name is Jackie Chapman and I am teaching ESOL this school year. It is my first year teaching at Carl Traeger Elementary and I will also be working at the Middle school. I first started teaching in 2005. I've taught High School English, worked as an interventionist, and also at Bilingual school teaching fourth and fifth grade. I also own an art studio and teach painting classes! My husband, Ben and I have six children; Eli (16), Jocelyn (14), Katherine (14), Lillian (12), Simon (12), and Madeleine (9). I live in Kaukauna and I also have a cabin in the Black River Falls area. In my free time, I enjoy sewing, spending time in the woods either at our cabin or camping, spending quality time with all of my family, and traveling to new places! I am so excited about this new chapter in my life and being a part of the Traeger team!

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BLUE SHIRT DAY-OCTOBER 5 & 6

Have you been bullied? Chances are you have.

According to Stomp Out Bullying, a national anti-bullying program website, one in every four children is bullied. Indeed, it is estimated that 160,000 students nationwide miss school each day because they fear a bully.

On October 5 & 6, the Carl Traeger Elementary Community would like to bring awareness to the issue of bullying by participating in a world day of bullying prevention known as “Blue Shirt Day”. On Monday, October 7, we invite all members of the Carl Traeger Elementary staff, students, parents, and visitors to join us in wearing blue to bring awareness to the issue of bullying. We further invite you to discuss bullying in your homes with your children, as well as ways to maintain healthy friendships at home and at school. Only when children feel safe are they able to learn.

For more information about Blue Shirt Day, the world wide day of bullying prevention, please visit www.stompoutbullying.org.

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Happy Birthday! Traeger celebrates each child’s birthday.  We wish students a happy birthday over the morning announcements, and for students with summer birthdays, we announce half birthdays. Each child receives a birthday book courtesy of the PSC. Classrooms also have birthday traditions. Per board of education guidelines, birthday treats are not allowed. If you send a treat we will not be able to serve it. Should you feel the need to send something, a gift to benefit the class is always welcome. This could include a book with an inscription written by your child or perhaps a favorite game for indoor recess. If you choose to celebrate your child’s birthday outside of school, the invitations may not be given out in the classroom, building or grounds. We do not want hurt feelings if a student does not receive an invite. Mailing them or delivering them on your own are great options.

 

• September 28 & 29
  • Picture Days
• October 5 & 6
  • Blue Shirt Days to Stomp Out Bullying
• October 8
  • PSC 6:00
• October 14
  • Early Release
  • No 4K Classes
• October 23
  • No School

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Our annual Scholastic Book Fair is online this year from September 20th through October 3rd.  It may not be as fun as our in-person fair, but there are definitely some perks --  shop in your pajamas and no waiting in line to check out.  Traeger families have been so generous in past years, raising almost $10,000 in sales at our in-person fairs.  My goal is to raise at least $5,000 in sales during this two week online fair.  Books make great gifts, so don't forget to shop for those upcoming birthdays and the holidays are right around the corner.
Please click on the link below ... happy shopping!
Thanks for your support!

Mary Geffers

geffersmj@yahoo.com

https://www.scholastic.com/bf/traegerelementaryschool

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Welcome to the Traeger Green Team - our mission is to improve the environment and reduce our environmental impact at Traeger Elementary and in our community through education, reducing waste, recycling, minimizing our carbon footprint, and improving health & wellness.

Unfortunately, since clubs are unable to meet, we will not hold Green Team meetings this year.  Keep up your work of loving and caring for our earth, she needs us now more than ever!  "Like" the FB page Traeger Elementary, Green Nature-Ally for continued updates about our mission!

TerraCycle Recycling Programs: Colgate and Tom’s of Maine have partnered with TerraCycle.  For every item collected we receive $0.02 - back to Traeger Green Team.

The programs accept ONLY EMPTY oral hygiene products and deodorant tubes which includes - PLEASE ONLY include items listed below…. We do not want to sort through more than necessary:

• Any brand of toothpaste tubes and caps 

• Any brand of toothbrushes (DO NOT INCLUDE ELECTRIC OR BATTERY OPERATED TOOTHBRUSHES or HEADS)

• Any brand of toothpaste cartons

• Any brand toothbrush outer packaging (ex. of blister packaging - not to go in curbside)

• Any brand of floss containers

• Any brand of deodorant

Due to COVID this year we are NOT collecting in school.  Please collect from your household. Families please contact Alicia Alsberg, abalsberg@gmail.com to arrange a drop off, for Traeger Elementary Staff please contact Mary Jo Vanderloop, mary.vanderloop@oshkosh.k12.wi.us. 

Traeger Elementary Green and Healthy School - Seedling School 

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Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

September 11, 2020: Issue 3

Traeger Tales

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Humankind. Be Both.

Kindness is the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate. Kindness makes people feel good and helps develop friendships. In a recent study, kids who did kind things for others had more friends. Social and relationship skills, such as kindness, can be developed. One way to practice this skill is through random acts of kindness.

Random Act of Kindness – doing something nice for a person when it is not expected.

Social skills are the skills needed to get along with other people.

What we know:

Nine to eleven year-olds who practiced kindness had bigger circles of friends because they didn’t see some classmates as different or as outsiders. Practicing random acts of kindness helps children be more thoughtful friends.

Try this:

Help your child think of age-appropriate “random acts of kindness” they can do with you or alone. Start with nice things to do at home or in the neighborhood, like:

• clean the dishes without being asked,
• put a note that says something nice under a parent’s pillow, or
• shovel a neighbor’s sidewalk or mow their lawn.

Then help your child think about people at school they could do something nice for, such as:

• classmates who have only a few friends,
• teachers,
• school cooks,
• custodians, or
• bus drivers.

Randomactsofkindness.org has a collection of kindness ideas. Help your child think of different kindnesses for different people. For example, one day your child could let someone go ahead of him in the lunch line, the next day your child could sit with a child who eats lunch alone, and another day your child could make a thank you card for the school cooks.

Try this too:

Watch the video Kindness Boomerang – “One Day” with your child. Count each time someone is helpful. Ask them to watch what happens to the first helper at the end of the video. That is the “boomerang” effect when something is returned to you. In the video, you can see the kindness returned to the first person who helped — like a boomerang.

For fun:

Watch this remake of the same video by third graders.

~ Mrs. G. 😃  (reprinted from UW Extension)

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Infinite Campus Messenger

 

One of the benefits of our student information system, Infinite Campus, is the messenger program. Through the Parent Portal you have the option to set up your account to receive messages in your Portal Inbox, via Email, Voice, and/or Text. In order to save paper we e-mail the link to Traeger Tales. There may be times we send out a message via phone or text as well, so it is important that we have current contact information in our system.

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WELCOME TO THE PACK

Madysen Weiss - First Grade Teacher

Hello! I am Madysen Weiss. I am a recent graduate from UW Oshkosh. I am working at Carl Traeger Elementary as a first-grade teacher. I’m lucky enough to be a first year teacher during the COVID-19 pandemic. I thrive on challenges, so I am excited and ready. I have worked the past three years at the YMCA’s Summer Fun Club where I have come to know many Oshkosh students. I want to thank all the staff that have accepted me and helped me get caught up, I hope to return the favor.

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Joke of the Week!

“Knock Knock!”

“Who’s there?”

“Joke”

“Joke who?”

“Joke of the week!!”

Do you have a favorite joke or riddle that you would like to share with the school? Here’s your chance!

Every Friday morning during announcements we will be telling a joke of the week submitted by a Traeger student. Just fill out the application below and we will randomly select one joke each week. Keep in mind that your joke must be appropriate for school.

 

Student name________________________________

Grade/teacher________________________________

Please check one of the following:

____Yes, I would like to read my joke over the loudspeaker.

____No, I would prefer to have the office read my joke.

Please submit your joke on the following lines:

______________________________________________

______________________________________________

______________________________________________

______________________________________________

______________________________________________

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News From the Office

• When dropping off or picking up your child please do not leave your vehicle.  Children who use the circle drive should be independent.  This keeps traffic flowing.  Please practice this skill if your child does not have it mastered.

• We have a number of students who are being marked tardy.  Students need to be ready to go into school at 7:40 when the bell rings so they can be in their classrooms at 7:45.  If you arrive when or after the bell rings your child will not likely make it to class on time.

• After school supervision is provided until the circle drive is cleared.  If you are late picking up your child you will need to buzz the office.

• It is imperative that Infinite Campus contact information is accurate.  If phone numbers change please update your account or call the office so we can make changes.  

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Book Fair Update

Welcome back!!  We cannot have our annual Book Fair and Ice Cream Social this year, that would have taken place next week, September 15-18.  Stay tuned for more information on an online Book Fair.

 

• September 16
  • Early Release at 12:30
  • No 4K Classes
• September 28 & 29
  • Picture Days

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PSC Agenda: Thursday 9/10/2020, 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Who are we?

PSC Board Members                     President: Nichole Casper

Vice President: Holly Emons         Co-Secretaries: Jessica Graf and Heather Swenson

Treasurer: Jen Sorensen

 

• Budget Update  - Jen Sorenson

  • Mrs. G: Slideshow on site budgets and why we need PSC funds.

    • Examples of items funded by site budget: tables, chairs, doors, birthday/classroom/guided reading books, art/gym/music supplies, celebrations, and much more. With a limited budget and so many high cost items we need PSC funds to help.

  • Jen: Went over Excel document on this year's budget. 

    • Amazon Smile - could be a larger donation to school than the past with more promotion and information sent out to families.  

    • Box Tops - Last donation received Jan 2020. Jen S. and Jen B. will look into this.

    • A lot of zeros for events that may not happen because of Covid restrictions. 

      • • Some events cancelled or on hold: Craft Fair, Ice Cream Socials, Funset, Bingo Night, Boosterthon, Family Nights, Veterans Day

        • Some events still going on: Culvers (Eventually), Herd, Open Gym, Possibly Online Book Fair (Mary Geffers)

• Budget: Sheri Schmidt Motion Approved, 2nd by Emma Hill. Motion Carried

• Added reimbursement for Mrs.G for classroom equipment. Motion to add to budget - Sheri . 2nd - Katie Z. 

• Photo Fundraiser - Heather Swenson 

  • Oct. 17th at 10:30AM and Oct. 24th at 4:00pm. Rain days - Oct 18th and 31st. 1 Location, 1 photographer. 15 minute session- 60% of funds go to PSC. $95 for 5 lightly edited photo prints and a disk. Cattail Creek Photography.  Could use 1 or 2 volunteers. Sarah Bradway and Amanda Sue Hurray volunteered.

  • Flyer will be printed at school and put in mailboxes next week. Online sign up will be active right away.

• Committee Chair Update - Holly Emmons 

  • Need Chairs for: All covered for now (until we have more fundraisers), will revisit at the January Meeting.

• Spiritwear Update  - Nichole Casper

  • Nichole will send some designs to the school next week. 15% back to school. Her plan is to change the designs quarterly.

• Citywide PTO Meeting - September 17; 6:00; Central office

  • Representative: Nichole will try to go to next week's meeting. We are looking for future representatives.  

• Ideas for Covid safe fundraisers? 

  • Us Cellular - Sheri Schmidt

  • Dec. Cupcakes, Nov. Cheesecakes  - Holly Emons

  • OshPop, Zaronis - Jess Graf 

  • Eaton’s Pizza - Heather

  • Asked participants to look into more ideas and bring them to the  October PSC Meeting. 

• Virtual Watch Party: For upcoming referendum. Reach out to Mrs. G. if you want an invite. 

• Motion to end meeting: Jen S. 2nd Motion: Liza O. 

Upcoming Events/Any Questions? Next PSC Meeting is October 8th

Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

September 4, 2020: Issue 2

Traeger Tales

IMPORTANCE OF MINDSET

WHAT IS MINDSET AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?

Mindset is a simple idea discovered by world-renowned Stanford University psychologist Carol Dweck in decades of research on achievement and success. Dr. Dweck identified two mindsets people can have: a fixed mindset and a growth mindset. In a fixed mindset, people believe their basic qualities, like intelligence or talent, are fixed traits. They spend their time documenting their intelligence or talent instead of developing them, and believe that talent alone creates success, which is wrong. In a growth mindset, people believe that their most basic abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. This view creates a love of learning and a resilience that is essential for great accomplishment. Virtually all people who achieved top performance had these qualities. Research shows that people with this view reach higher levels of success than people with fixed mindset beliefs. Teaching a growth mindset creates motivation and productivity in the worlds of business, education, and sports. It enhances relationships, and increases achievement. 

HOW CAN YOU SUPPORT A GROWTH MINDSET IN YOUR CHILDREN?

No parent thinks, “I wonder what I can do today to undermine my children, subvert their effort, turn them off of learning, and limit their achievement.” Of course not. We think, “I would do anything, give anything, to make my children successful.” Yet many of the things we do boomerang. Our best intentioned judgments and our motivational techniques often unintentionally send the wrong message. In fact, every word and action sends a message. It tells children – or students or athletes – how to think about themselves. It can be a fixed mindset message that says: “You have permanent traits and I’m judging them,” or it can be a growth mindset message that says: “You are a developing person and I’m interested in your development.” The most important thing you can do to help your child develop a growth mindset is to praise them for effort rather than for talent. Messages like “You learned that so quickly! You’re so smart!” teach the child that they either are or aren’t smart, and that effort is a sign of weakness. When they encounter difficulty in the future, they tend to then feel not smart and retreat. Instead, messages such as “I like the way you approached that problem”, or “Good job to hang in there and find a different strategy that did work,” or “Sorry, that seemed to be too easy for you, let’s do something more challenging,” teaches kids that effort is something we can all benefit from to reach our full potential, and that they need to be working purposefully and taking on challenges in order to grow. 

HOW CAN I LEARN MORE? 

You can visit the Mindset Works website, www.mindsetworks.com, read Dr. Carol Dweck’s book Mindset, or visit the Mindset Works Parenting pages at www.mindsetworks.com/parents to learn about ways to infuse the growth mindset into your parenting. (Source: Mindset Works) ~Mrs G. 😃   

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IMPORTANT CONFERENCE DATES 2020-2021!!  MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

November 5 and November 10 4:00-7:00 pm--This will be your opportunity to meet individually with your child’s teacher and discuss your child’s progress and goals.

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Early Release Days

School will dismiss at 12:30 PM on the following Wednesdays:

• September 16
• October 14
• November 11 
• December 9
• January 6
• February 10
• March 10
• April 14
• May 12

Please mark your calendars! There will be NO 4K classes on these dates.

Staff will be participating in various collaboration sessions on these early dismissal days.  Their work day is actually extended beyond the regular work day to allow for large blocks of collaboration time as a team, building, or district.

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School Day Snacks

Carl Traeger Elementary will again be offering milk as a snack this year. With normal breakfast and lunch consumption, school age children should need nothing more than one mid-morning/mid- afternoon snack milk during the school day. Keep in mind, many children go home after school and have a snack. A good definition of a healthy snack is one that is low in added sugars and sodium, and provides important nutrients like fiber, protein, and heart healthy fats, such as those found in nuts. Parents may elect to send a snack to school with their child. Please consult the suggestions the Traeger Family Handbook. Snacks should be sent daily in single serving portions.

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Ordering something from Amazon? We have a great way you can start supporting our school while shopping on Amazon. Instead of going to amazon.com, simply go to Amazon Smile at www.smile.amazon.com and designate “Carl Traeger PSC Carl Traeger Elementary” as your charitable organization or go to https://smile.amazon.com/ch/39-1912920 and click on “Start Shopping.” Amazon will donate 0.5% of the price of your eligible AmazonSmile purchases to Carl Traeger PSC whenever you shop on AmazonSmile. AmazonSmile is the same Amazon you know. Same products, same prices, same service. Thanks for helping make our school amazing!

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The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students who are 18 years of age or older ("eligible students") certain rights with respect to the student's education records. These rights are:

1. The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days after the day a written request is received.

2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA.

3. The right to provide written consent before the school discloses personally identifiable information (PII) from the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

4. The right to know that school districts can disclose education records to each other without parent consent if student is enrolling or transferring to another district.

5. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by a school to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:

Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, DC 20202

Note: for a review of additional details for each of the above items, please go to the following website:

http://www2.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/lea-officials.html

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Morning Drop Off

Children may arrive at 7:30 and enter their assigned door to go to their classroom.  Children should not be be at school prior to that time and should not play on the playground! All children should be entering school from the playground in the morning.  Only 4K parents may accompany their child to the playground doors. Please ensure that your child is dropped off in time to enter the building through their assigned door.  Children should be wearing their masks during this time as there is a potential for congestion.

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WELCOME TO THE PACK

Hannah Groth - Kindergarten Teacher

Hello everyone! My name is Hannah Groth and I will be teaching kindergarten this year. I graduated from UWO in May. This is my first year teaching and I am excited to be back at Traeger. I was a practicum student and I student taught here. I am originally from the LaCrosse area. I grew up in a small town called West Salem. I love the Fox Valley and I am excited to start my teaching career here. In my free time, I enjoy traveling (although COVID ruined my summer plans...), being outdoors, reading, and spending time with my family. I have had such great experiences at Traeger and I am so thrilled to be apart of the Traeger family. I look forward to meeting & working with you all this year!

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News From the Office

• Student hours for 2020-21 are 7:45am-2:45pm.  All children should enter the building through their assigned door from the playground.  

• Sometimes parents are surprised to see their child has been marked tardy.  This can happen if children dilly dally in the hallway.  Please remind your child about the importance of being in the classroom when the bell rings.  You can access your child’s attendance information in Infinite Campus.

• Parents need to log into Infinite Campus on your child's virtual days to submit your attendance.  Instructions are at the LINK.

• When calling your child in for the day you can reach our voicemail 24 hours a day. It does ring several times before going to voicemail, so please stay on the line. 

• Reminder! Our first Early Release day is September 16. Students will be dismissed at 12:30pm. There are no 4K classes on Early Release days. Please make arrangements for your child to be picked up.

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• September 10
  • Virtual PSC meeting at 6:00pm
• September 16
  • Early Release at 12:30
  • No 4K Classes
• September 28 & 29
  • Picture Days

PSC Agenda 

Thursday 9/10/2020, 6:00-7:00 p.m.

LINK to Zoom meeting

Who are we?

PSC Board Members

President: Nichole Casper

Vice President: Holly Emons
Co-Secretaries: Jessica Graf and Heather Swenson

Treasurer: Jen Sorensen

 

1. Budget Update  - Jen Sorenson
    

2. Photo Fundraiser - Heather Swenson
    

3. Committee Chair Update - Holly Emmons
    

4. Spiritwear Update  - Nichole Casper

 

5. Citywide PTO Meeting

 

6. Ideas for Covid safe fundraisers?

 

Upcoming Events/Any Questions?

 

Carl Traeger
Elementary School 

 

August 2020: Issue 1

Traeger Tales

ANOTHER GREAT YEAR BEGINS!

Carl Traeger Elementary is gearing up for the 2020-2021 school year!  Classroom and building preparations are underway as we anxiously await the arrival of students!  The first day of school is Tuesday, September 1, and it will be here before you know it!  

We have a lot of enrollment changes this summer which has resulted in some shifting of staff.  We had to redo our class lists, so parents will be notified later normal this year about class placement.  Once we have everything finalized you will receive information about your child's placement.  Teachers will then be reaching out to schedule a Get to Know You Conference.  

Teachers are anxious to meet families and welcome students to their classrooms!  Everyone gets a little nervous before the first day of school, so hopefully meeting the teacher prior to the first day will help calm those nerves.  

The beginning of the year is a wonderful time to celebrate and reinforce the essential link between school and home.  Throughout the year please feel free to contact any of the Traeger staff, myself included, to make your child’s learning experience more positive and productive!   Welcome Back! 

~Brenna Garrison-Bruden 😃  (AKA Mrs. G.)

Meet Mrs. G.

This is my 21st year as a member of the Oshkosh Area School District. I grew up in Fond du Lac and graduated from UW Oshkosh. I have a Master's Degree in Educational Administration from Marian University. For nearly eight years I had the privilege of team teaching second and third grades at Webster Stanley Elementary. In February 2008 I began my three and one half year principalship at Webster. I am very excited to begin my tenth year at Carl Traeger Elementary. Our school staff has a reputation for being on the cutting edge of teaching and learning and for doing whatever it takes to meet the needs of students and families. I look forward to reconnecting with children and families and welcoming new members to our school family.

My husband, Chris, and I  have been married 34 years.   Our son, CJ, is 31 and our daughter, Emma, is 29. It seems like just yesterday our children were starting their elementary careers. I can’t believe our kids are all grown up and living on their own.  Now that we are empty nesters, Chris and I enjoy doting on our “fur babies,” Ginger and Nutmeg.  During the pandemic we took on a lot of projects around the house.  

Remember that I am here for you and your family. Sometimes just someone to listen, some words of advice or an extra pair of hands is just what you might need to help you through those challenges we all face as families in our society, today. Don't ever hesitate to call me here at school (424-0221) or at home (921-6322) - that is what I am here for - to help you and your child. Here's to a successful launching of another great school year!  Brenna 😃

Early Dismissal Wednesdays

Please mark your calendars for the early dismissal dates this year.  The city bus does pick up on early dismissal days, but we need to call them to stop at Traeger.   Please call the office if your child will be riding the city bus on early release days so we can ensure that the city bus stops at school.

School will dismiss at 12:30 on the following Wednesdays.  There are NO 4K classes on Early Release Days:

• September 16
• October 14
• November 11
• December 9
• January 6
• February 10
• March 10
• April 14
• May 12

Staff will be participating in various collaboration sessions on these early dismissal days.  Their work day is actually extended beyond the regular work day to allow for large blocks of collaboration time as a team, building, or district.

Carl Traeger Elementary Classroom Teachers 2020-2021

4K

Mrs. Gibson & Mrs. Gorski

Kindergarten

Mrs. Ballard, Ms. Groth & Mrs. VanHeuklon

First Grade

Mrs. Cardinal, Mrs. Martin & Ms. Weiss

Second Grade

Ms. Moon, Mrs. Sopata & Mrs. Witt

Second/Third Grade

Mrs. Lepper

Third Grade

Mrs. Branson, Mrs. Gustrafson & Mrs. Trebiatowski

Fourth Grade

Mrs. Kordus & Mrs. Wolff

Fourth/Fifth Grade

Mr. Amel

Fifth Grade

Mrs. Nyman & Mrs. Purtell

eAcademy

Mr. Clark, Ms. Konen, & Mrs. Pinkerton

We had several staffing changes over the summer.  Mrs. Rindo (ELL) and Mr. Kleinhans (APE) have been reassigned to other buildings.   Mrs. Liebergen resigned and Mrs. Druecke took a position in another district closer to home.  Best wishes to Mrs. Wolosek who retired.  We also have several name changes due to summer weddings!  Ms. Cornell is now Mrs. Kidd; Ms. Klinka is now Mrs. Gustafson and Ms. Gross is now Mrs. Ballard.

Please welcome our new staff:  Hannah Groth who is joining the kindergarten team.  Madysen Weiss is joining our first grade team.  Hannah Moon will be teaching second grade.  Jackie Chapman will be serving English language learners and Corey Knudsen will be teaching adaptive physical education.  Jordan Blevins has joined our paraprofessional team.  We are still looking to fill several paraprofessional positions. 

Due to the number of sections this year, we again have additional support for art (Jenna Larson), music (Maria Cibula) and physical education (Traci Zerbe).  First hour each day will be taught to fifth graders by these traveling staff members.

News From the Office

• Watch for a separate communication with COVID-19 procedures.

• Student hours for 2020-2021 are 7:45-2:45. 

• In an effort to provide safety and security, the doors remained locked before, during and after the school day.  

• Due to the pandemic, breakfast will be served in the classroom.  We will NOT have early arrival time for breakfast this year.

• Students may arrive at 7:30am-no earlier.  Students should wear their mask when they are dropped off or arrive on school grounds and go directly to their classroom through their pod door.  Students should NOT be playing on the playground before school.  More specific information will be provided closer to the start of school.

• Middle school students are dismissed almost an hour after elementary dismissal.  We are not able to provide supervision for students to wait for middle school siblings.  Please make alternative arrangements if this impacts your family.  The YMCA does provide after school child care.

• Due to the pandemic we are not able to have guests for lunch this year or have volunteers in the building. 

 

• September 1
  • First Day of School!
• September 7
  • No School - Labor Day
• September 10
  • Virtual PSC meeting at 6:00pm
• September 16
  • Early Release at 12:30
  • No 4K Classes
• September 29
  • Picture Day

               WE ARE IN NEED OF NOON HOUR                  CAFETERIA SUPERVISORS

Do you enjoy interacting with children and being a positive role model?  Have we got an opportunity for you!  

TIME NEEDED: 10:30 AM -12:30 PM Monday thru Friday

DUTIES: Supervise students in the lunchroom

REQUIREMENTS:

• Noon Hour Supervisor Application

• Criminal Background Report Authorization

(included in application packet)

• Tuberculin Skin Test Certification (WI. Statute 118.25)

• Visit Oshkosh Area School District Central Office to fill out paperwork in the payroll office

If interested please contact the Carl Traeger Elementary office at 424-0221.

The Value of an After-School Conversation

Asking your kids about their school day is a good idea, according to Vanderbilt University researchers.

Why? The researchers say they already knew that children learned best with their mothers or a peer, but it wasn’t clear whether this was because the children were getting feedback and help, or merely because they were explaining their solutions to someone. In the study, the researchers had mothers simply listen to their children without providing any assistance.

 “The basic idea is that it is really effective to try to get kids to explain things themselves instead of just telling them the answer,” says Bethany Rittle-Johnson, professor of psychology at Vanderbilt’s Peabody College of Education. “Explaining their reasoning, to a parent or perhaps to other people they know, will help them understand the problem and apply what they have learned to other situations.”

 

 

June 3, 2020

May 29, 2020

May 22, 2020

May 15, 2020

May 8, 2020

May 1, 2020

April 24, 2020

April 17, 2020

April 9, 2020

April 3, 2020

March 20, 2020

March 13, 2020

March 6, 2020

February 28, 2020

February 21, 2020

February 14, 2020

February 7, 2020

January 31, 2020

January 24, 2020

January 17, 2020

January 10, 2020

December 20, 2019

December 13, 2019

December 6, 2019

November 22,2019

November 15, 2019

November 8, 2019

November 1, 2019

October, 24, 2019

October 18. 2019

October 11, 2019

October 4, 2019

September 27, 2019

September 20, 2019

September 13, 2019

September 6, 2019

August 2019