TRAEGER TALESDecember 7, 2023: Issue 14

Easy Ways To Take Control of the Holiday Hustle and Bustle

This was shared by a colleague and resonated with me.  I hope it can be helpful in not letting the holiday bustle take the joy out of the season! ~Mrs. G. 😀

As the holiday season approaches, our lives tend to accelerate into a chaotic whirlwind. There are bustling crowds, never-ending shopping lists, decorations to hang, cookies to bake, wrapping paper to wrestle with … it’s a lot of extras to add to our already busy lives.

Last year, when my to-do list seemed to stretch as long as Santa’s Naughty or Nice List, I knew it was time for a change. I was feeling burnt out creating Christmas magic for my kids when a simpler celebration would be just as special. So, this is me telling you, and myself, to take a step back this year. Here are a few ways I'm planning for a less frenzied (and more festive!) holiday season.

Don’t stress about finding that “perfect” present. This year’s hottest toy? It probably won’t be so hot in a month. For me, books are more meaningful gifts that will hold their allure long after that must-have toy has been tossed. Plus, there’s a whole world of books out there to suit every kind of kid. You’re guaranteed to find something that matches your child’s age, personality, and interests.

Focus on the things you enjoy doing. I’m not one for elaborate crafts, and as for holiday cooking … well, let’s just say you’d find canned tuna and Goldfish® crackers on my Feast of the Seven Fishes menu. Focusing on traditions that hold sentimental value, like our Book Advent Calendar or making our own gift tags, allows my family and I to enjoy the season without feeling overwhelmed by unnecessary extravagance.

Remember what truly matters about the holiday season. At the end of the day, the holidays are all about connection. I’d rather invest in quality, stress-free time with those I love than check all the holiday boxes of twinkly light shows, fancy dinners, and Santa parades.

As 2023 comes to a close, let this be the perfect time to prioritize what really matters: spending quality time with loved ones, savoring cherished traditions, and relishing the magic of the season. (Source: Brightly)

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• Research shows that students who don’t have meaningful social connections are at risk for attendance and behavior problems, dropping out, and committing suicide. ~Panorama

• New research shows that chronic absenteeism was significantly lower at schools with strong family engagement.

• Building strong, trusting relationships that promote a feeling of belonging is fundamental to improving student attendance & engagement. #SchoolEveryDay

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Harmon’s Hellos

Hello CTE families! We have some exciting times coming up in Art! 

Our biggest art show of the year will take place on Saturday, December 9th from 4-7pm at the Masonic Center in Oshkosh. This show will represent every school in the Oshkosh Area School District and feature artwork from Kindergarten through 12th grade. You will be amazed at the skill and talent and it will make a fun family night out.  All are welcome and it is free of charge! 

The following students will represent Carl Traeger Elementary by having artwork featured at this show:

Kindergarten:  Lucas H., Liam D., Maliyah P.

1st:  Burke W., Emmalynn S., Natalie B., Claire H., Aleah D., Leo Y., Lily Z.

2nd:  Audrey L., Landon P., Hudson S., Lincoln S.

3rd:  Maggie F., Will R., Calvin W., Keaton O. Mariyam T.

4th:  Ethan L., Hazel S., Rylee S.

5th: Myles K., Greyson M., Adelyn A., Briza B., Thomas H., Lucy A., Melody S., Alexis T., Addelyn K., Abigail T., Allyana T., Aubrey W.

The other excitement here at Traeger is the ever-popular CLAY unit! From December 11th through the 21st, Kindergarten - 4th grade students will be learning all about clay, how it is used, the properties of clay, as well as experimenting with and creating our own clay projects. It’s the most wonderful time of the year…

It will take most of our winter break for our clay projects to properly dry, and then the first (bisque) firing will begin. Then our projects will need painting, staining or glazing. If your child uses glaze for their project, it will require a second firing. It’s a long process, but one your child will never forget. So expect a little clay under your child’s nails, maybe a little on their clothes, too, but also much excitement!

With much gratitude,

Mrs. Harmon

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Be on the lookout for busses. It is illegal to pass a stopped school bus that has a stop sign extended and lights on. This indicates that children are getting on or off the bus.

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• December 8
  • No School for Students
• December 11
  • Green Bay Packer Theme Day
• December 12
  • K-Kids 6:00pm
• December 13
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• December 14
  • Treb to Paine Art Center
• December 15
  • Branson to Paine Art Center
• December 19
  • Gustafson to Paine Art Center
• December 20
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• December 22-January 1
  • Winter Break
• January 2
  • School Resumes
• January 3
  • Walk to School Wednesday

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

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Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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TRAEGER TALESDecember 1, 2023: Issue 13

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. 😀

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Stuffed Animal Sleepover!!!

     The media center has a group of wolves who live in the media center and are lonely! Last month they invited kindergartners and first graders to bring in a stuffed animal to play with them for the long weekend. They had a blast! See the video from their time together here. 

     Since they mostly followed the Traeger Way, we decided to do this again! Right now we are only going to invite our 2nd and 3rd grade students to bring in 1 stuffed animal friend on Thursday, December 7th. This animal friend will be invited to spend the whole 3 day weekend at school in the media center! We have some fun activities planned for them during their stay. If your family is interested, send 1 stuffed animal friend to school on Thursday, December 7th with your second or third grader. Classes will drop off their friends in the media center before the end of the day and will pick up on Monday, December 11th. Thanks for considering!

~ Mrs. Miller, Ms. Gill & wolves

 

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Harmon’s Hellos

Greetings Traeger Families!

The Art room has been a busy place; creating, thinking and honing our skills. Each grade level has so far completed at least two major projects and we’re moving along toward many more. Here’s a sampling of some of the projects we have completed: Burke’s Wassily Kandinsky tree, Maggie’s bottle study, Ethan’s watercolor chameleon and Audrey’s African elephant!

In December we will be doing everyone’s favorite - our CLAY unit! 

Items needed for the Art room:

• Paper grocery bags for taking artwork home
• Yarn - Any type or color
• Wooden rolling pins

Thank you!

-Mrs. Harmon

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Thank you to everyone who brought in donations for our food drive during the first week!  We will continue to collect items through December 11. 

Did you know in 2022, 12.8 percent of U.S. households were food insecure at least some time during the year, meaning they had difficulty providing enough food for all their members because of a lack of resources. The 12.8 percent of food-insecure households (17.0 million households) includes 5.1 percent (6.8 million) that experienced very low food security, a more severe form of food insecurity in which the food intake of some household members was reduced, and normal eating patterns were disrupted. The 2022 prevalence rates for both food insecurity and very low food security were statistically significantly higher than the rates recorded in 2021 (10.2 percent and 3.8 percent).

Thank you in advance for your support to families in Oshkosh who are struggling with food insecurity!

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• November 29
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• December 1
  • PSC Paint Night 5-7pm
• December 5
  • Grade 2 to Grand Opera House
• December 6
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• December 8
  • No School for Students
• December 11
  • Green Bay Packer Theme Day
• December 12
  • K-Kids 6:00pm
• December 13
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• December 14
  • Treb to Paine Art Center
• December 15
  • Branson to Paine Art Center
• December 19
  • Gustafson to Paine Art Center
• December 20
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• December 22-January 1
  • Winter Break
• January 2
  • School Resumes
• January 3
  • Walk to School Wednesday

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

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Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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TRAEGER TALESNovember 17, 2023: Issue 12

Dear Traeger Families,

Carl Traeger Elementary K-Kids is partnering with the Mid-Morning Kiwanis Club in sponsoring a food drive to support the Salvation Army Food Pantry. Each year, Oshkosh Area School District elementary schools participate in this food drive to help families in the Oshkosh community, reaching 14,000 families, collecting between 4 to 5 tons of food each year. This is the 48th year of this partnership! We are excited to help once again, and we have a goal to collect 1,000 items.

We are pairing the grade levels for the competition!  The pairings are following the lunch period schedule: K & 2, 1 & 4, and 3 & 5 grades.  The K-Kids worked on incentives for when the lunch period brings in the following number of items:

• 100 items - Spirit Day - Wear Traeger Colors
• 200 items - PJ/Comfy Day
• 400 items - Creative Hair/Hat Day

4K - We have incentives for you too!

• 100 items - Stuffed Animal Day 
• 200 items - PJ/Comfy Day

Non-Perishable Food items only - please NO GLASS.

Easy donation opportunities: 

• November 20th Kick Off Night at K-2 Music Concert (boxes will be by the auditorium entrances).  

• December 1st Family Night at Traeger (boxes will be in the entrance).

• School Days, please look for the labeled boxes for your grade level pairing in the cafeteria.

  • Last day to bring in items is December 11th.

If you have any questions about the food drive, please contact Alicia Alsberg, K-Kids Advisor at alicia.alsberg@oshkosh.wi.k12.us

~Mrs. Alsberg and Mrs. G. 

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Welcome to the Pack!

Amanda Zeinert - Cross Categorical Special Education Teacher

Hello, My name is Amanda Zeinert, and I am happy to be back at Carl Traeger Elementary as a Cross Categorical Special Education teacher. This is my tenth year in education. Previously, I was a paraprofessional at Carl Traeger. Then, I taught in the autism program at Oakwood, and recently, I was a Cross Categorical Special Education teacher at Read Elementary. My husband, Eric, and I recently celebrated our 20th wedding anniversary. We are both from the very small town of Wittenberg, WI. We moved to Oshkosh 19 years ago. Growing up in a small town has made me appreciate the many activities Oshkosh has to offer. Eric and I have 2 daughters who both attended Traeger from Kindergarten through eighth grade. My oldest daughter, Melana, is a sophomore at UW Madison. My youngest, Samara, is a junior at Oshkosh West High School. Samara just completed her high school swim season at West and broke 3 school records! She also swims for the Oshkosh YMCA. I have a labradoodle named Maggie who is the best dog! My husband and I enjoy taking her for walks and cuddling with her.In my free time, I love watching Samara swim and going to Madison to have brunch with Melana. I also enjoy reading biographies and books about history. Coming back to Traeger has felt like coming home. I appreciate everyone's warm welcome and I look forward to being a part of the Traeger School Family!

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'Tis the season of giving! 

Once again, the Carl Traeger Elementary community is coming together to support Traeger families during this holiday season, with the gift giving program, Brighten Someone's Holiday.

How can you help and how does it work?

• Select an item(s) from the Brighten Someone's Holiday list below.
• Purchase the item(s) you've selected below.  Be sure to include the code with the item (i.e.; TA:1).  This is necessary to make sure the requested gift(s) is given to the correct child.  
• Please do not wrap the gifts.
• Please turn your gift(s) in to the school office no later than Friday, December 1st. 

The families of Carl Traeger Elementary have been very generous in the past and we look forward to continue to spread the Christmas cheer again this year. Along with the gift requests, there are options to donate cash or online donation, which will be used to purchase any gifts that were not donated.

We have 29 Traeger Families with a total of 80 children needing gifts this year, any support will be GREATLY APPRECIATED!

If you have any questions, please contact Kaelee Heideman (424-0221) or kaelee.heideman@oshkosh.k12.wi.us. 

To sign up for a gift item, please visit our PTBoard Website at the following LINK. 

Thank you Traeger Families!

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Dear Families,

We are thankful for you!

As we prepare to take time off from school November 22-26 for the Thanksgiving break, we are grateful for everyone who has helped to restore a routine for showing up to school while supporting students and families. 

Daily routines are essential for reducing stress and creating a sense of security, especially after the chaotic transitions experienced over the last two years.  

As long as your child is healthy, please encourage showing up to class when school is in session. Every day of school is an important opportunity for students to learn as well as connect to peers and their teachers.

We thank:

·      Our students and their families who do their best to show up to class every day even when it isn’t easy.

·      Our teachers who have gone above and beyond to help make school a welcoming learning environment where students can thrive.

·      Our administrators who help us work together to ensure we are healthy and safe, feel a sense of community and experience the excitement of an engaging learning environment.

·      Our many, many healers and helpers - the support staff and community volunteers who provide the extra hands and attention our children need.

May these days off be restful and healing. 

●   If your family or your child needs support, please reach out to our school social worker Heather Wolters or school counselor Kaelee Heideman for help. 

●   We look forward to seeing you again when school resumes on November 27 .

Thank you for partnering with us!

 Sincerely,

Mrs. G. and the Traeger staff

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Traeger Kindergarten-2nd Grade COLOR Concert

 “Live Life in Color!”

Mark your calendars...MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20th!!!

(6pm at Alberta Kimball Auditorium-West High School). 

You are NOT going to want to miss this year’s Fall Concert brought to you by the Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd Grade Students.  We have created an amazing show for you. This COLOR concert will feature songs about all different colors. The concert will not only feature our Traeger students sharing their amazing voices but will also include a wide variety of talents such as dancing, solos, duets, baton twirling, rocking guitars and some super kids having a fantastic time on stage!

 We cannot wait to perform for everyone and we are again expecting a full auditorium.  We will feature bright COLOR songs and the students are really going to be ROCKING the stage. We want the students to light up the stage and are encouraged to wear ANY bright color. Students will meet their classroom teachers and sit with their class at 5:45 pm. The concert starts promptly at 6:00 pm and will last approximately one hour. 

We sincerely hope you join us and enjoy this wonderful night of fun and great music!!! 

See you Monday, November 20, 2023!

Sincerely, 

Mrs. Schmidt (Music Teacher)

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There will not be a new issue of Traeger Tales next week due to the short week.

 

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• November 19
  • PSC Herd Night 7:00pm 
• November 20
  • K-2 Concert at Alberta Kimball 6:00pm
• November 22-26
  • No School - Happy Thanksgiving!
• November 29
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• December 1
  • PSC Paint Night 5-7pm
• December 5
  • Grade 2 to Grand Opera House
• December 6
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• December 8
  • No School for Students
• December 11
  • Green Bay Packer Theme Day
• December 12
  • K-Kids 6:00pm
• December 13
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• December 14
  • Treb to Paine Art Center
• December 15
  • Branson to Paine Art Center
• December 19
  • Gustafson to Paine Art Center
• December 20
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• December 22-January 1
  • Winter Break
• January 2
  • School Resumes

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

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Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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TRAEGER TALESNovember 9, 2023: Issue 11

BEING GREEN AT HOME AND SCHOOL

Reducing the family's carbon footprint at home and school is easy, and can save you money at the same time.

Low-waste lunch tips

• Try doing a lunch box audit with your kids to see how much packaging you use such as plastic wrap, plastic throw-away spoons, straws and plastic bags, along with prepackaged foods.

• Lunch boxes with their special compartments for sandwiches, fruit, nuts and snacks are the best way to reduce wrapping or packaging of individual items.

• Chilled or frozen juice or water keeps lunch cool and fresh.

• Reusable drink containers reduce packaging waste even further.

Digital stuff

The family's music players, mobile phones and laptops all burn energy, adding to your household's carbon footprint. Simply by recharging the family's digital gadgets at night means your electricity bill will be less and it can reduce peak load on power stations.

Many of the smart ideas kids are learning at school about being energy efficient can be applied at home too. Ask your child to:

• Switch off appliances at the wall

• Look for high energy star ratings on appliances when you buy new ones

• Take shorter showers

• Use natural light during the day.

Getting to and from school

Safe walking or cycling or active travel (any journey which relies more on walking or cycling and less on the car) are great ways to reduce the family's carbon footprint. You can plan the route to school for your child with neighbors, friends, and their parents to share the supervision.

When driving the kids to school, planning journeys to combine trips to work, the shops or appointments also saves on fuel. Try parking a short distance from the school to reduce congestion in school zones at peak times and give you all a few minutes of extra exercise.

~Mrs. G. 😃

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Cough Drops/Medication & Treatment Policies

Just a friendly reminder: over-the-counter medications (INCLUDING COUGH DROPS) intended for occasional use (10 consecutive days or less) will NOT be given to your child unless a Medication/Treatment Request form is signed by the parent and turned into the office.  The medication also needs to be in it's original packaging.  If the medication is to be given longer than 10 consecutive days, a healthcare provider’s signature is required.

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As a school and district, we have set rigorous goals for literacy achievement. In order to achieve those goals and support the individual needs of each student in our classrooms, it is important to engage our families with the work we are doing. Attached is a SURVEY that has been created to gather input from our families on your current knowledge of literacy instruction and support. We will use this information to reflect on our current state and create a plan to support growth in this area. We will leave the survey open until Nov. 17. Thank you in advance for your feedback!

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Every day a student is absent is a lost opportunity for learning. Too many absences not only can affect achievement for the absent student, but also can disrupt learning for the entire class. ~Attendance Works

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Traeger Elementary has taken advantage of TerraCycle’s Tom’s of Maine and Colgate Recycling Programs over the last couple of years. TerraCycle is a global leader in recycling the hard to recycle waste.  

We no longer have the opportunity to earn money for the items we send to Terracycle for this program.  We are discontinuing the collection box at Traeger.  

Our last day to collect will be Thursday November 16th.
 

If you have any of the below items please collect them in a small plastic film bag (like the dentist bag or a bread bag), your student can drop in the box just outside the office!  

 

• 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 packaging

• ANY BRAND of floss containers

• ANY BRAND of deodorant (no aerosol)

Questions please contact: Alicia Alsberg, K-Kids Advisor, alicia.alsberg@oshkosh.k12.wi.us 

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Traeger Kindergarten-2nd Grade COLOR Concert

 “Live Life in Color!”

Mark your calendars...MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20th!!!

(6pm at Alberta Kimball Auditorium-West High School). 

You are NOT going to want to miss this year’s Fall Concert brought to you by the Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd Grade Students.  We have created an amazing show for you. This COLOR concert will feature songs about all different colors. The concert will not only feature our Traeger students sharing their amazing voices but will also include a wide variety of talents such as dancing, solos, duets, baton twirling, rocking guitars and some super kids having a fantastic time on stage!

 We cannot wait to perform for everyone and we are again expecting a full auditorium.  We will feature bright COLOR songs and the students are really going to be ROCKING the stage. We want the students to light up the stage and are encouraged to wear ANY bright color. Students will meet their classroom teachers and sit with their class at 5:45 pm. The concert starts promptly at 6:00 pm and will last approximately one hour. 

We sincerely hope you join us and enjoy this wonderful night of fun and great music!!! 

See you Monday, November 20, 2023!

Sincerely, 

Mrs. Schmidt (Music Teacher)

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PSC Minutes
11/7/23, 6:00-7:00 p.m.  

PSC Mission Statement: The purpose of the Carl Traeger Elementary Parents and Staff for Children (PSC) organization is to serve in a voluntary, supportive and cooperative role bringing home, school and the community together; to make all children, parents and staff feel important, special, capable and a part of the community, to support Carl Traeger Elementary school by providing necessary resources for childrens’ educational benefit.

Who are we?  PSC Officers

• President: Nichole Casper 
• Vice President: Megan Paulik
• Co-Secretaries: Heather Swenson & Mandy Stein
• Treasurer: Jolene Halbach & Nick Zanders
• Communication & Outreach: Kelly Zanders
• Events & Volunteer Coordinator: Megan Paulik
   

1. Introductions

2. Ice breaker - Make cards for teachers. Please bring supplies to create homemade cards

3. Volunteer Opportunities 

   1. Conference- feed the teachers

   2. K2 Concert- Need volunteers

4. Fundraiser Updates

   1. Craft Fair - Nichole 

      1. Admissions 1042 ppl attended $2,084.94

      2. Booth sales $4,925

      3. Concessions $558.30

      4. Food trucks $33.20

      5. Bake sale $631.49 

      6. Total Profit $6424.18

      7. Next year’s craft fair will be 10/19 already booking booth sales for next year

5. Treasurer Update

   1. Funds left over from last year-cash donations.

   2. Picture Fundraiser $1,050 

6. Upcoming Events/Fundraisers

   1. Veterans day event - Nov 9th- Have majority of food. Needing coffee yet.

   2. Brighten Someone's Holiday $460 already for this

   3. Family Paint Night - Dec. 1st

      1. Friday, 5-7pm

      2. Need two volunteers: 4:30-5:30 and 5:30-6:30 

   4. Rocky’s Fundraiser-Dec 21st (20% of sales to Traeger)

7. Next meeting date, time, and location: January 9th, 6pm in library media center (LMC) 

8. Questions

   1. Reviewed school supplies from new vendor for future decision

   2. Timber Rattlers reading program - discuss with Mrs. Runde

   3. Funset vs. Mini golf - majority voted to do both events

   4. Motion to close - Kelly; Second - Kendall

 

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Brighten Someone's Holiday

Dear Families,

Each year the PSC of Carl Traeger Elementary and I lead our “Brighten Someone’s Holiday” campaign to provide gifts for children from families who may be struggling financially.

This program provides at least one clothing item and one toy to each child in the family. I will call you to let you know when gifts are ready to be picked up, usually in the middle of December. Should you choose to participate, your family’s identity will remain completely confidential. 

To participate, please email Kaelee Heideman, school counselor, at kaelee.heideman@oshkosh.k12.wi.us for a paper copy of the registration or complete the LINKED  form and return it to Kaelee. Please complete or return the form by November 9th to ensure gifts are ready by the holidays. 

All of us at Carl Traeger Elementary want to wish you and your family an absolutely wonderful, safe, healthy, and festive holiday season.

Sincerely,
Kaelee Heideman, School Counselor

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K-Kids is fundraising with Fun Pasta Fundraising starting November 4th!

We are raising money to purchase fleece material for making blankets to donate and for additional K-Kid projects.  We need your help in reaching our fundraising goal.  We’ll earn 40% profit from every sale. Order is simple and fun!

What is Fun Pasta?  Fun Pasta is healthy fun pasta shaped like the holidays, sports, collegiate team logos, and more.  The colorful online catalog shows a wide variety of products that will appeal to everyone! 

How can you help? Purchase from and share our Fundraiser!

Go to our Carl Traeger Elementary shopping link: 

https://www.funpastafundraising.com/shop/carl-traeger-elementary_1698710938323

Share our shopping link with family and friends in an email and Facebook.

There is FREE SHIPPING on orders over $65, flat rate shipping of $8.95 on orders under $65.  Minimum online order of $20. Fundraiser closes November 13th.

MANY THANKS FOR HELPING US REACH OUR GOAL!  

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The next K-Kids meeting is December 12th at 6 pm in the Media Center.  

ALL are welcome to participate in K-Kids - 

Come check out K-Kids at any time, no sign-up required!

Please reach out with any questions: 

Alicia Alsberg, K-Kids Advisor, alicia.alsberg@oshkosh.k12.wi.us

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• November 10
  • No School for Students
• November 14
  • Grade 4 to Full Steam Ahead
  • Parent Teacher Conferences 3:30-6:45pm
• November 15
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• November 19
  • PSC Herd Night 7:00pm 
• November 20
  • K-2 Concert at Alberta Kimball 6:00pm
• November 22-26
  • No School - Happy Thanksgiving!
• November 29
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• December 1
  • PSC Paint Night 5-7pm
• December 5
  • Grade 2 to Grand Opera House
• December 6
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• December 8
  • No School for Students
• December 11
  • Green Bay Packer Theme Day
• December 12
  • K-Kids 6:00pm
• December 13
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• December 14
  • Treb to Paine Art Center
• December 15
  • Branson to Paine Art Center

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

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Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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TRAEGER TALESNovember 3, 2023: Issue 10

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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 10 and 15 to further enhance our home-school partnerships!

~Mrs. G. 😃 

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Traeger Kindergarten-2nd Grade COLOR Concert

 “Live Life in Color!”

Mark your calendars...MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20th!!!

(6pm at Alberta Kimball Auditorium-West High School). 

You are NOT going to want to miss this year’s Fall Concert brought to you by the Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd Grade Students.  We have created an amazing show for you. This COLOR concert will feature songs about all different colors. The concert will not only feature our Traeger students sharing their amazing voices but will also include a wide variety of talents such as dancing, solos, duets, baton twirling, rocking guitars and some super kids having a fantastic time on stage!

 We cannot wait to perform for everyone and we are again expecting a full auditorium.  We will feature bright COLOR songs and the students are really going to be ROCKING the stage. We want the students to light up the stage and are encouraged to wear ANY bright color. Students will meet their classroom teachers and sit with their class at 5:45 pm. The concert starts promptly at 6:00 pm and will last approximately one hour. 

We sincerely hope you join us and enjoy this wonderful night of fun and great music!!! 

See you Monday, November 20, 2023!

Sincerely, 

Mrs. Schmidt (Music Teacher)

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Brighten Someone's Holiday

Dear Families,

Each year the PSC of Carl Traeger Elementary and I lead our “Brighten Someone’s Holiday” campaign to provide gifts for children from families who may be struggling financially.

This program provides at least one clothing item and one toy to each child in the family. I will call you to let you know when gifts are ready to be picked up, usually in the middle of December. Should you choose to participate, your family’s identity will remain completely confidential. 

To participate, please email Kaelee Heideman, school counselor, at kaelee.heideman@oshkosh.k12.wi.us for a paper copy of the registration or complete the LINKED  form and return it to Kaelee. Please complete or return the form by November 9th to ensure gifts are ready by the holidays. 

All of us at Carl Traeger Elementary want to wish you and your family an absolutely wonderful, safe, healthy, and festive holiday season.

Sincerely,
Kaelee Heideman, School Counselor

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Dear Traeger Families,

On November 9 and 14 we will be holding 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 work together as a team to make your child's educational experiences successful.  Families will be given the choice to meet in person or virtually.  Teachers will be in touch to find out family preference for their conference.

Once again, this year you will be signing up for Parent Teacher Conferences Online.  Conference registration will open at 4:00pm on October 26.

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

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

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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

• 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!

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K-Kids is fundraising with Fun Pasta Fundraising starting November 4th!

We are raising money to purchase fleece material for making blankets to donate and for additional K-Kid projects.  We need your help in reaching our fundraising goal.  We’ll earn 40% profit from every sale. Order is simple and fun!

What is Fun Pasta?  Fun Pasta is healthy fun pasta shaped like the holidays, sports, collegiate team logos, and more.  The colorful online catalog shows a wide variety of products that will appeal to everyone! 

How can you help? Purchase from and share our Fundraiser!

Go to our Carl Traeger Elementary shopping link: 

https://www.funpastafundraising.com/shop/carl-traeger-elementary_1698710938323

Share our shopping link with family and friends in an email and Facebook.

There is FREE SHIPPING on orders over $65, flat rate shipping of $8.95 on orders under $65.  Minimum online order of $20. Fundraiser closes November 13th.

MANY THANKS FOR HELPING US REACH OUR GOAL!  

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The next K-Kids meeting is December 12th at 6 pm in the Media Center.  

ALL are welcome to participate in K-Kids - 

Come check out K-Kids at any time, no sign-up required!

Please reach out with any questions: 

Alicia Alsberg, K-Kids Advisor, alicia.alsberg@oshkosh.k12.wi.us

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PSC Agenda11/7/23, 6:00-7:00 p.m.  

Library Media Center or LINK to join virtually

PSC Mission Statement: The purpose of the Carl Traeger Elementary Parents and Staff for Children (PSC) organization is to serve in a voluntary, supportive and cooperative role bringing home, school and the community together; to make all children, parents and staff feel important, special, capable and a part of the community, to support Carl Traeger Elementary school by providing necessary resources for childrens’ educational benefit.

Who are we?  PSC Officers

• President: Nichole Casper 
• Vice President: Megan Paulik
• Co-Secretaries: Heather Swenson & Mandy Stein
• Treasurer: Jolene Halbach & Nick Zanders
• Communication & Outreach: Kelly Zanders
• Events & Volunteer Coordinator: Megan Paulik
   

1. Introductions

2. Ice breaker - Make cards for teachers. Please bring supplies to create homemade cards

3. Volunteer Opportunities 

   1. Conference- feed the teachers

4. Fundraiser Updates

   1. Craft Fair - Nichole

      1. Admissions 

      2. Booth sales

      3. Concessions 

      4. Food trucks 

      5. Bake sale 

      6. Next year’s craft fair will be 10/19

5. Treasurer Update

6. Upcoming Events/Fundraisers

   1. Veterans day event - Nov 9th

   2. Brighten Someone's Holiday 

   3. Family Paint Night - Dec. 1st

      1. Friday, 5-7pm

      2. Need two volunteers: 4:30-5:30 and 5:30-6:30 

   4. Eatons Pizza-Dec 21st

7. Next meeting date, time, and location: January 9th, 6pm in library media center (LMC) 

8. Questions

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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. 

 

 

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• November 7
  • PSC in LMC 6:00
• November 8
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• November 9
  • Patriotic Theme Day
  • Parent Teacher Conferences 3:30-6:45pm
• November 10
  • No School for Students
• November 14
  • Grade 4 to Full Steam Ahead
  • Parent Teacher Conferences 3:30-6:45pm
• November 15
  • Walk to School Wednesday 
• November 20
  • K-2 Concert at Alberta Kimball 6:00pm
• November 22-26
  • No School - Happy Thanksgiving!
• November 29
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• December 4
  • Grade 2 to Grand Opera House
• December 6
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• December 8
  • No School for Students

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

---

Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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TRAEGER TALESOctober 26, 2023: Issue 9

TRAIN THEIR BRAIN

You can make a difference in your child’s life by training your child’s brain so that your child will successfully function on social, emotional, and academic levels. Here is how:

1. Don’t be afraid to set the limits. Kids need limits to grow happy and healthy!

• Make a schedule for meal times, sleep times, technology time.

• Think of what is GOOD for them- not what they WANT/DON’T WANT. They are going to thank you for that later on in life. Parenting is a hard job. You need to be creative to make them do what is good for them because, most of the time, that is the exact opposite of what they want.

• Kids need breakfast and nutritious food. They need to spend time outdoors and go to bed at a consistent time in order to come to school available for learning the next day!

• Convert things that they don’t like doing/trying into fun, emotionally stimulating games.

2. Limit technology, and reconnect with your kids emotionally.

• Surprise them with flowers, share a smile, tickle them, put a love note in their backpack or under their pillow, surprise them by taking them out for lunch on a school day, dance together, crawl together, have pillow fights.

• Have family dinners, board game nights, go biking, go on outdoor walks with a flashlight in the evening.

3. Train delayed gratification.

• Make them wait! It is ok to have “I am bored“ time – this is the first step to creativity.

• Gradually increase the waiting time between “I want” and “I get.”

• Avoid technology use in cars and restaurants, and instead teach them waiting while talking and playing games.

• Limit constant snacking.

4. Teach your child to do monotonous work from early years as it is the foundation for future “workability.”

• Folding laundry, tidying up toys, hanging clothes, unpacking groceries, setting the table, making lunch, unpacking their lunch box, making their bed.

• Be creative. Initially make it stimulating and fun so that their brain associates it with something positive.

5. Teach social skills.

• Teach them turn taking, sharing, losing/winning, compromising, complimenting others, using “please and thank you.”

Help your kids succeed in life by training and strengthening their brain sooner rather than later!  This story was originally written by Victoria Prooday, a registered Occupational Therapist, Psychotherapist, founder and clinical director of a multidisciplinary clinic for children and parents and was adapted by Deep Roots at Home.   ~Mrs. G. 😃

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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Halloween/Fall Celebrations

Halloween/Fall Celebrations will take place in classrooms on October 31. Thank you for following our Halloween costume guidelines!

• No full face masks are allowed. Our younger students have been scared by many masks and we want to see the children’s faces as they parade.

• Students will only be given 5 minutes to get “dressed” in costumes and will not be excused to the bathroom. Please plan for easy items to add to their regular outfits.

•  Make up should not be worn all day as it is a disruption to the classroom.

• Violent themed costumes are not appropriate for school.

• Board policy clearly prohibits look alike weapons such as toy guns, knives, swords, or other threatening objects. These items are not allowed at school for any reason, and Halloween is no exception.

Each classroom will be notifying parents if they need any help with the celebration. Please remember that all fruit, vegetable, and cheese trays must be purchased already assembled from a grocery store. All dry items such as cookies, cupcakes and crackers must be store purchased.

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Dear Traeger Families,

On November 9 and 14 we will be holding 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 work together as a team to make your child's educational experiences successful.  Families will be given the choice to meet in person or virtually.  Teachers will be in touch to find out family preference for their conference.

Once again, this year you will be signing up for Parent Teacher Conferences Online.  Conference registration will open at 4:00pm on October 26.

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

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

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Brighten Someone's Holiday

Dear Families,

Each year the PSC of Carl Traeger Elementary and I lead our “Brighten Someone’s Holiday” campaign to provide gifts for children from families who may be struggling financially.

This program provides at least one clothing item and one toy to each child in the family. I will call you to let you know when gifts are ready to be picked up, usually in the middle of December. Should you choose to participate, your family’s identity will remain completely confidential. 

To participate, please email Kaelee Heideman, school counselor, at kaelee.heideman@oshkosh.k12.wi.us for a paper copy of the registration or complete the LINKED  form and return it to Kaelee. Please complete or return the form by November 9th to ensure gifts are ready by the holidays. 

All of us at Carl Traeger Elementary want to wish you and your family an absolutely wonderful, safe, healthy, and festive holiday season.

Sincerely,
Kaelee Heideman, School Counselor

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Children in grades 1-5 recently participated in the i-Ready Diagnostic Assessment for math and reading.  This is a computer-based assessment done three times each school year across the district. This is the first time our 1st through 3rd grade students have done a computer-based assessment and that can impact student performance. Therefore, it is only one measure of progress used by our teachers. Parent reports are in the process of being mailed to all students who completed the assessment. Our upcoming conferences would be a great opportunity for you to talk with your child’s teacher about how you can best support your child at home with continued growth.  Mrs. Runde will also be available during conferences to answer any specific questions regarding the assessment reports or your child’s results.  All students will take the assessment in January and May. We look forward to seeing the growth of our students at these times!

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• October 26
  • Conference Scheduling Opens at 4:00pm
  • PSC Trunk or Treat 5-6:30pm
• October 27
  • No School for Students
• October 31
  • Fall Fest Classroom Celebrations
• November 1
  • Walk to School Wednesday
  • End of First Quarter
• November 7
  • PSC in LMC 6:00
• November 8
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• November 9
  • Parent Teacher Conferences 3:30-6:45pm
• November 10
  • No School for Students
• November 14
  • Parent Teacher Conferences 3:30-6:45pm
• November 20
  • K-2 Concert at Alberta Kimball 6:00pm
• November 22-26
  • No School - Happy Thanksgiving!

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

---

Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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TRAEGER TALESOctober 20, 2023: Issue 8

Mean, Rude or Bullying?

Signe Whitson, a child and adolescent therapist and author of 8 Keys to End Bullying and The 8 Keys to End Bullying Activity Book for Kids & Tweens, has a timely message for parents and educators: “there is a real need to draw a distinction between behavior that is rude, behavior that is mean and behavior that is characteristic of bullying.” In Psychology Today, she clarifies the way she identifies the difference and asks adults to remember that distinguishing between them allows “teachers, school administrators, police, youth workers, parents and kids all know what to pay attention to and when to intervene.”

Whitson’s article was prompted by an encounter with a parent, who told her, “Last week, my daughter was bullied really badly after school!" and then went on to describe what Whitson characterized as a benign encounter between playful children throwing leaves. She writes, “While I always want to be careful not to minimize anyone's experience... if kids and parents improperly classify rudeness and mean behavior as bullying — whether to simply make conversation or to bring attention to their short-term discomfort — we all run the risk of becoming so sick and tired of hearing the word that this actual life-and-death issue among young people loses its urgency as quickly as it rose to prominence."

So how does Whitson define the differences? Rude, she says, is “inadvertently saying or doing something that hurts someone else.” In children this takes the form of social errors like “burping in someone's face, jumping ahead in line, bragging about achieving the highest grade or even throwing a crushed up pile of leaves in someone's face.” The critical factor? “Incidents of rudeness are usually spontaneous, unplanned inconsideration, based on thoughtlessness, poor manners or narcissism, but not meant to actually hurt someone.”

Being mean involves “purposefully saying or doing something to hurt someone once (or maybe twice).” Unlike unthinking rudeness, “mean behavior very much aims to hurt or depreciate someone.... Very often, mean behavior in kids is motivated by angry feelings and/or the misguided goal of propping themselves up in comparison to the person they are putting down.” And while Whitson agrees that both rudeness and mean behavior require correction, they are “different from bullying in important ways that should be understood and differentiated when it comes to intervention.”

Bullying is “intentionally aggressive behavior, repeated over time, that involves an imbalance of power.... Kids who bully say or do something intentionally hurtful to others and they keep doing it, with no sense of regret or remorse — even when targets of bullying show or express their hurt or tell the aggressors to stop.” Whitson gives examples of multiple kinds of bullying, including physical and verbal aggression, relational aggression (like social exclusion, hazing, or rumor spreading), and cyberbullying. The key aspect to all of them is the ongoing nature of the behavior, which leaves the victims feeling powerless and fearful.

Whitson is pleased that, in the past few years, “Americans have collectively paid attention to the issue of bullying like never before; millions of school children have been given a voice, 49 states in the U.S. have passed anti-bullying legislation, and thousands of adults have been trained in important strategies to keep kids safe and dignified in schools and communities.” As we continue to improve our response to bullying, she asks all adults who interact with children to remember that “a child's future may depend on a non-jaded adult's ability to discern between rudeness at the bus stop and life-altering bullying.”

~Mrs. G. 😃 (Source: A Mighty Girl)

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Halloween/Fall Celebrations

Halloween/Fall Celebrations will take place in classrooms on October 31. Thank you for following our Halloween costume guidelines!

• No full face masks are allowed. Our younger students have been scared by many masks and we want to see the children’s faces as they parade.

• Students will only be given 5 minutes to get “dressed” in costumes and will not be excused to the bathroom. Please plan for easy items to add to their regular outfits.

•  Make up should not be worn all day as it is a disruption to the classroom.

• Violent themed costumes are not appropriate for school.

• Board policy clearly prohibits look alike weapons such as toy guns, knives, swords, or other threatening objects. These items are not allowed at school for any reason, and Halloween is no exception.

Each classroom will be notifying parents if they need any help with the celebration. Please remember that all fruit, vegetable, and cheese trays must be purchased already assembled from a grocery store. All dry items such as cookies, cupcakes and crackers must be store purchased.

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Dear Traeger Families,

On November 9 and 14 we will be holding 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 work together as a team to make your child's educational experiences successful.  Families will be given the choice to meet in person or virtually.  Teachers will be in touch to find out family preference for their conference.

Once again, this year you will be signing up for Parent Teacher Conferences Online.  Conference registration will open at 4:00pm on October 26.

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

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

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LOST AND FOUND

Our school's Lost and Found is overflowing with treasures waiting to be reclaimed! It's incredible how many items have been left behind – from cozy jackets to water bottles and beyond. The lost and found bins are brimming with goodies just waiting for their owners to come back and claim them. If your child is missing anything, please encourage them to check out the lost and found. Don't wait too long, as we'll be donating unclaimed items to charity in the coming weeks to help those in need.

 

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WELCOME TO THE PACK

  

Kendall Sander - secretary

Hello Traeger Families! My name is Kendall Sander and I am your new School Secretary. When we moved to Oshkosh a few years ago, I began subbing and then worked in Student Services at Oshkosh West. I am a Traeger Mommy of two students here so of course I was excited to join the Traeger Pack. My family and I spend most of our time outdoors. We work in our yard, go camping, and check out Wisconsin trails with our new puppy, Bear. When it's cold or wet weather, we enjoy crafting and playing Legos inside with our fluffy white cat. I look forward to working with and meeting all the wonderful families here and I am excited for a fun first year!

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Bonnie Barkelar - Cross Categorical guest teacher

Hi! My name is Mrs. Bonnie Barkelar. I am a Cross Categorical guest teacher at Traeger. I have taught in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois and Kansas. Mr. Barkelar and I have been married for 45 years , and we have 2 sons. We also have 4 grandchildren. After being away from Oshkosh for 30 years, my husband and I have moved back to Oshkosh. I look forward to working with you and your child.

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• October 21
  • PSC Craft Fair 9-am-2pm
• October 25
  • Walk to School Wednesday
  • Clark/Toppins to 1000 Islands
• October 26
  • PSC Trunk or Treat 5-6:30pm
  • Nyman/Purtell to 1000 Islands
• October 27
  • No School for Students
• October 31
  • Fall Fest Classroom Celebrations
• November 1
  • Walk to School Wednesday
  • End of First Quarter
• November 7
  • PSC in LMC 6:00
• November 9
  • Parent Teacher Conferences 3:30-6:45pm
• November 10
  • No School for Students
• November 14
  • Parent Teacher Conferences 3:30-6:45pm

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

---

Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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TRAEGER TALESOctober 12, 2023: Issue 7

HALLOWEEN IS ON THE WAY!

Halloween is fast approaching. The Halloween/Fall Fest Celebration will take place on Tuesday, October 31.

Your child’s teacher will communicate any needs for donations and volunteers that day. Students in grades K-5 should come to school in normal clothes on October 31. They are welcome to put on a simple costume for a student parade late in the afternoon. We do have some Halloween guidelines to keep the day educational and fun for all students, so please review them as your child selects a costume for the event.

• No full face masks are allowed. Our younger students have been scared by many masks and we want to see all the children’s faces as they parade.

• Students will only be given 5 minutes to get “dressed” in costumes and will not be excused to the bathroom. Please plan for easy items to add to their regular outfits.

• Makeup should not be worn all day as it is a disruption to the classroom.

• Violent themed costumes are not appropriate for school.

• Board policy clearly prohibits look alike weapons such as toy guns, knives, swords, or other threatening objects. These items are not allowed at school for any reason, and Halloween is no exception.

We look forward to a fun season of celebration. Enjoy the colors of autumn! 

~Mrs. G. 😃

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Dear Traeger Families,

On November 9 and 14 we will be holding 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 work together as a team to make your child's educational experiences successful.  Families will be given the choice to meet in person or virtually.  Teachers will be in touch to find out family preference for their conference.

Once again, this year you will be signing up for Parent Teacher Conferences Online.  Conference registration will open at 4:00pm on October 26.

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

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

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Let's Do Lunch

Carl Traeger and Food Service invite you to have lunch with your child any school day.  If you want to have a school lunch, please call the office at least two days in advance so a lunch may be ordered for you.  We have a special table for parents who want to have lunch with their child.  This table is for parents and their own children.  We don't have the capacity for students to invite friends.

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Wear It Forward Traeger WearDo you have some gently used, clean Traeger school apparel that your child has outgrown?  We would love to have you contribute it to our Wear it Forward program!  Just send any gently used Traeger clothing to school and we will help it find a new home.  If you are interested in receiving Traeger school apparel for your child fill out the form at the LINK.

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PSC Minutes
10/10/23, 6:00-7:00 p.m.  

PSC Mission Statement: The purpose of the Carl Traeger Elementary Parents and Staff for Children (PSC) organization is to serve in a voluntary, supportive and cooperative role bringing home, school and the community together; to make all children, parents and staff feel important, special, capable and a part of the community, to support Carl Traeger Elementary school by providing necessary resources for childrens’ educational benefit.

Who are we?  PSC Officers

• President: Nichole Casper 
• Vice President: Megan Paulik
• Co-Secretaries: Heather Swenson & Mandy Stein
• Treasurer: Jolene Halbach & Nick Zanders
• Communication & Outreach: Kelly Zanders
• Events & Volunteer Coordinator: Megan Paulik
   

1. Icebreaker - Favorite Halloween Costume (self or kiddos) 🦇🕷

2. Volunteer opportunities: See highlighted areas BELOW

1. Craft Fair setup & Bake Sale (Nichole) - 10/20 

                          Anyone that wants to help can! The more help the better. 

1. Setup on Friday 5-7pm. 

2. Craft Fair day of volunteers needed 6am-3pm

3. Bake Sale drop off Friday during school hours or 5-7pm

2. Trunk or Treat - 10/26 5-6:30 - Volunteers needed or we have to cancel the event. 

   1. Decorate your trunk

      1. Spots available; signup on PTBoard! 

   2. Candy collection

      1. Dropoff candy in the monster bin located by the PSC bulletin board in the entryway. Individually wrapped candy only

3. Conferences - 11/9 & 14  (Chair needed!)

   1. Coordinate and provide food for teachers by 3pm each day

   2. Feed the Teachers - $150 budget each day

      1. Looking for donations of desserts and drinks

   3. 45 teachers

4. Post-Concert Social - 11/20 (Chair needed!)

   1. Money raised is for the playground fund 

      1. $2.50 per person for presales

   2. Purchase food

   3. Purchase concert flowers 

      1. Budget - $15

3. Treasurer Update (Jolene & Nick)  

4. Fundraiser Updates

   1. Restaurant Day at Red Robin (Kelly) -  $156.79 Profit

   2. Book Fair (Kenlin/Megan) - Record Sales $12,336 (not including online sales!)

5. Upcoming Events 

   1. Photo Fundraiser - 10/8, 11, & 13 (Kelly) 

   2. Restaurant Day at Buffalo Wild Wings - 10/13 (Jolene)

   3. Veterans Day Assembly  - 11/10 (Nichole)

      1. Provide food (danishes, hot dishes, and coffee) for the assembly. Signup on PTBoard!

   4. Herd Game - 11/18 (Another game on 3/4/24) (Nichole)

      1. Tickets available at https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/ctes

      2. T-Shirts available at https://fourfoldvinylandboutique.com/products/traeger-herdup

   5. Brighten Someone's Holiday (Katie) Signup on PTBoard!

6. Glow Mini-Golf - Opportunity in January. Move Funset BLVD fundraiser or cancel it. Will find out more information and discuss it at the next meeting. 

7. Next meeting date, time, and location: Tuesday, November 7th, 6pm in the Library Media Center (LMC) 

8. Questions

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WELCOME TO THE PACK

 

Olivia gruss - 4k teacher

Hello! My name is Olivia Gruss (students call me Ms. Olivia), and I will be teaching 4K this year. This will be my first year teaching! I am a UW-Whitewater grad. I completed my student teaching in a kindergarten class and alongside a special education teacher. I learned a lot and had so much fun! I can’t wait to enter the crazy tornado of year one, learn so much more, and have even more fun. In my free time, I love to travel, playing on my Switch, and chill with my pets. I look forward to meeting and working with all of you here at Traeger.

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Jenny horsch - 4K Teacher

Hello! My name is Ms. Horsch and I will be teaching 4K this year. This is my first year teaching at Traeger, but my fifth year teaching for Oshkosh Early Learning. Before Oshkosh, I taught in the Appleton School District for five years and Head Start before that. Teaching has always been a passion of mine and I am excited to get to share that with you as our adventure begins! I currently live in Oshkosh with my boyfriend and our English Bulldog, Maggie. I love being an aunt to my three nieces and four nephews. I enjoy playing volleyball, golf, hiking, and traveling. I believe in open communication and by working together, we will be able to provide the best experience for children; making this year a successful one!

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cheryl jirschele - 4K paraprofessional

Hi to the Traeger Family. My name is Cheryl Jirschele. I have been in the district for 18 years all of which have been with Early Learning. I have two grown boys who now are owners of a bowling alley here in Oshkosh. My favorite things to do are bowling and playing softball. When I am not doing those things I am teaching bowling to kiddos of all ages and coaching softball to special needs adults. I look forward to getting to know the friendly faces of Traeger.

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• October 16
  • K-Kids 6:00pm
• October 18
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• October 21
  • PSC Craft Fair 9-am-2pm
• October 25
  • Walk to School Wednesday
  • Clark/Toppins to 1000 Islands
• October 26
  • PSC Trunk or Treat 5-6:30pm
  • Nyman/Purtell to 1000 Islands
• October 27
  • No School for Students
• October 31
  • Fall Fest Classroom Celebrations
• November 1
  • Walk to School Wednesday
  • End of First Quarter
• November 7
  • PSC in LMC 6:00
• November 9
  • Parent Teacher Conferences 3:30-6:45pm
• November 10
  • No School for Students

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

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Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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TRAEGER TALESOctober 6, 2023: Issue 6

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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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The health office staff will be performing the following screenings.

• Vision
• Hearing

If our screening identifies a concern you will be notified via US mail. We would encourage you to follow up with your physician at that time. If you do not receive anything that means your child passed his/her screening and requires no further action. 

If you would like to opt out of these free screenings, please notify your health office as soon as possible.

Elizabeth Lynch, BSN, RN email: elizabeth.lynch@oshkosh.k12.wi.us

920-424-0065 ext 1324

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Stuffed Animal Sleepover!!!

The media center has a group of wolves who live in the media center and are lonely! They want to share their fun adventures with other stuffed animal friends from our families! Right now we are only going to invite our kindergarten and first grade friends to bring in 1 stuffed animal friend on Thursday, October 12th. This animal friend will be invited to spend the whole 3 day weekend at school in the media center! We have some fun activities planned for them during their stay. If your family is interested, send 1 stuffed animal friend to school on Thursday, October 12th with your kindergartener or 1st grader. Classes will drop off their friends in the media center before the end of the day and will pick up on Monday, October 16th. Thanks for considering!

~ Mrs. Miller, Ms. Gill & wolves

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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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WELCOME TO THE PACK

Madison Plate - Paraprofessional Intern

Hello! I'm Madison Plate, I'm an intern from UWO working with the 1st grade class this semester. I'm going to UWO for both Special Education and Elementary Education, this is my fourth year of school, but I will be in school for a fifth year next year due to the double major. I look forward to working with the students and helping them learn! I live with my boyfriend in Beaver Dam currently, but originally am from a small town by Appleton. I spend my free time reading and watching movies based on historical events, mostly World War II, I love learning more about history and has happened and the cause behind certain events. I want to thank everyone for welcoming me to Traeger and helping me figure everything out as I go!

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morgan rau - paraprofessional intern

Hello everyone! My name is Morgan Rau and I am a student clinician from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh. I am double majoring in Elementary and Special Education. Our university has worked with the Oshkosh School District to get student clinicians paid as a paraprofessional which has been a super fun learning experience. I have also done work at Perry Tipler Middle School in their EBD classroom. I am from Downers Grove, IL, and came to Oshkosh to play softball at the university. I have been playing for 16 years and really enjoy all kinds of sports. I have two sisters one is my twin sister, we are fraternal and both go to UWO. My older sister is 8 years older and is a mother to my two nieces who are 1 and almost 3! I am really eager to learn and grow through Carl Traeger Elementary and thank you for welcoming me with open arms!

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TREE-mendous Traeger Students!

Every month each class recognizes a student who consistently follows the Traeger Way!  Congratulations to our September students who are also featured on the bulletin board in the cafeteria!

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PSC Agenda
10/10/23, 6:00-7:00 p.m.  

Library Media Center or LINK to join virtually

PSC Mission Statement: The purpose of the Carl Traeger Elementary Parents and Staff for Children (PSC) organization is to serve in a voluntary, supportive and cooperative role bringing home, school and the community together; to make all children, parents and staff feel important, special, capable and a part of the community, to support Carl Traeger Elementary school by providing necessary resources for childrens’ educational benefit.

Who are we?  PSC Officers

• President: Nichole Casper 
• Vice President: Megan Paulik
• Co-Secretaries: Heather Swenson & Mandy Stein
• Treasurer: Jolene Halbach & Nick Zanders
• Communication & Outreach: Kelly Zanders
• Events & Volunteer Coordinator: Megan Paulik
   

1. Icebreaker

2. Volunteer opportunities 

   1. Craft Fair setup & Bake Sale (Nichole) - 10/20 

      1. Setup on Friday 5-7pm  

      2. Craft Fair day of volunteers needed 6am-3pm 

      3. Bake Sale drop off Friday during school hours or 5-7pm 

   2. Trunk or Treat - 10/26 

      1. Decorate your trunk

         1. Spots available; signup on PTBoard!

      2. Candy collection

         1. Dropoff candy in the monster bin located by the PSC bulletin board in the entryway. Individually wrapped candy only

   3. Conferences - 11/9 & 14  (Chair needed!)

      1. Coordinate and provide food for teachers by 3pm each day

      2. Feed the Teachers - $150 budget each day

         1. Looking for donations of desserts and drinks

      3. 45 teachers

   4. Post-Concert Social - 11/20 (Chair needed!)

      1. Money raised is for the playground fund 

         1. $2.50 per person for presales

      2. Purchase food

      3. Purchase concert flowers 

         1. Budget - $15

3. Treasurer Update (Jolene & Nick)

4. Fundraiser Updates

   1. Restaurant Day at Red Robin (Kelly)

   2. Book Fair (Kenlin/Megan)

5. Upcoming Events 

   1. Photo Fundraiser - 10/8, 11, & 13 (Kelly)

   2. Restaurant Day at Buffalo Wild Wings - 10/13 (Jolene)

   3. Veterans Day Assembly  - 11/10 (Nichole)

      1. Provide food (danishes, hot dishes, and coffee) for the assembly. Signup on PTBoard!

   4. Herd Game - 11/18 (Another game on 3/4/24) (Nichole)

      1. Tickets at https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/ctes

      2. T-Shirts available at https://fourfoldvinylandboutique.com/products/traeger-herdup

   5. Brighten Someone's Holiday (Katie) Signup on PTBoard!

6. Next meeting date, time, and location: Tuesday, November 7th, 6pm in the Library Media Center (LMC) 

7. Questions

8. ---

    

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• October 9
  • Green Bay Packer Theme Day
• October 10
  • PSC Meeting 6:00pm in LMC
• October 11
  • Walk to School Day
• October 13
  • No School for Students
• October 16
  • K-Kids 6:00pm
• October 18
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• October 21
  • PSC Craft Fair 9-am-2pm
• October 25
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• October 26
  • PSC Trunk or Treat 5-6:30pm
• October 27
  • No School for Students

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

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Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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TRAEGER TALESSeptember 29, 2023: Issue 5

BOOK FAIR TONIGHT!

Join us at the Book Fair and Popcorn Social tonight! From 5:30 to 7:00 PM. Families can join us for book shopping at the fair and free popcorn and mix ins! 

By Friday I will have had the pleasure of visiting all classrooms this week and doing book talks. Ask your child about my visit! The book fair is a fundraiser to support the PSC birthday book program. Each Traeger student gets a free book in the month of their birthday or half birthday. Thank you for your support of reading and birthday books! We hope you can join us Friday night! Remember, all purchases benefit our school! Thank you for your support!

~Mrs G. 😃   

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International Walk to School Day - October 4

Walking to school is an excellent way to incorporate regular activity into your child’s day. Each year Traeger celebrates International Walk to School day to promote an active, healthy lifestyle. Each year, our goal is to get as many children to walk to school as possible by participating in a school-wide walk to school using guided routes. We will have three routes that will travel through various neighborhoods in the Traeger area. Each route has several pick-up locations as well as approximate pick up times. We have several celebrity adults with each group to ensure that the children will arrive at school safely.

• Route 1 - Superintendent, Dr. Davis and Assistant Superintendent of Operations, Ms. Conrad
• Route 2 - OASD Board member Chris Wright and Assistant Superintendent of Instruction, Dr. Coleman
• Route 3 - Elementary Director, Mrs. Kohl and Mrs. G.

If possible, we encourage you to participate in the walk to school with your child. All you have to do to participate is have your child and/or yourself at the pick up spot at the designated time. If you do not live close to one of the nearby routes, feel free to drop your child off at one of the route stops before the designated time so he/she can join the walk.

Click on the link to view the routes. Students who use non-motorized transportation will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win prizes donated by Safe Routes to Schools.  Students will also receive a punch on their Frequent Walker/Cyclist card. Cards are available at the doors for students who do not have one.  Students who are not able to walk to school can walk during lunch recess to be eligible for the drawing. We will also have a Be Bright, Be Bold, Be Seen theme day.  Mrs. Wara & Mrs. G. 😃

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WELCOME TO THE PACK

Sara toppins - grade 5 teacher

Hello! My name is Sara Toppins, and I will be teaching fifth grade this year. My journey into elementary education began as a substitute teacher for the district in 2018. I previously worked at Traeger as a building substitute for two and a half years. This is my first year as a classroom teacher! I have a degree in Child Psychology and Sociology from the University of Minnesota and I am wrapping up my coursework for licensure with CESA 6 this year. I am excited to start this next chapter in my teaching career with the wonderful community at Traeger Elementary! My husband and I have been married for 16 years and we live in Oshkosh with our two boys (15 and 11 years old) and our Boston Terrier named Homer. When I am not at school I enjoy traveling, going up north, being the only snowboarder on family ski trips, eating pizza, reading, crossword puzzles, gardening, and running.

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samantha freimund - physical education teacher

Hello everyone.  I have been an educator for 29 years. I began my career at Oshkosh North High School then working at Winneconne and North Fond du Lac. I am excited to return to Oshkosh. I am teaching 5th grade physical education and then am at Jefferson for the rest of the day. I have a twelve year old son who is in 6th grade at Traeger. He plays hockey so that is where a lot of my free time goes. I enjoy being outside, going for bike rides , traveling and time with friends and family. I look forward to meeting and working with everyone at Traeger!

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mason ehret - kindergarten paraprofessional

Hello, my name is Mason Ehret and I am now a para here at Treagor helping out in all three kindergarten classrooms!  I’m 20 years old and this is my second year being a paraprofessional. I was a para in the Janesville WI school district last year in a first grade classroom at a school called Wilson Elementary. There I made lifetime memories and relationships that I hold near and dear to me to this day.

I was studying to be an Elementary teacher at UWO for 3 semesters until I took a semester off to see if the classroom is really what I wanted to do, so I went to work as a para. Now I know after that time that this is what I love doing and what I’m passionate about. I’m currently taking classes through U-Rock online which is through UWW to finish any generals I missed during my semester off and am working towards my elementary education degree.

Outside of work, I am very passionate about weight lifting. It’s something I do every day after work and it’s something that helps me unwind from potential stressful days.

My mother, father, and my younger brother live in Janesville WI. My brother is a senior in high school who is committed to play football at UWEC. My mother works for Mercy Health in the nursing field and my father is a fire inspector for Rock County WI.

My biggest inspiration in my life is my two grandmothers. My grandma Barb was a para for 21 years in the Janesville school district and my grandma Mary Sue who is no longer with us, taught me what unconditional love is. I am forever grateful for those two women in my life and I’m inspired daily by them.

I can’t wait to get to know everyone better here and I’m so grateful for this opportunity to help and learn!

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This fall all 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 October 6 and will 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 Mrs. G. 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

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• September 29
  • Book Fair and Popcorn Social 5:30-7:00pm
• October 2
  • Picture Retake Day
• October 3
  • Witt to YMCA
• October 5
  • Sopata/Alsberg to YMCA
• October 4
  • International Walk to School Day
  • Be Bright, Be Bold, Be Seen Theme Day
• October 9
  • Green Bay Packer Theme Day
• October 11
  • Walk to School Day
• October 13
  • No School for Students
• October 18
  • Walk to School Wednesday

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

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Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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TRAEGER TALESSeptember 21, 2023: Issue 4

THE TRAEGER WAY

Students have reviewed our grade level policy talk videos featuring Ms. Heideman and me.  We shared that while we have many jobs at Traeger, our most important job is to ensure that school is safe. We also explained that as students, it is their job to help keep it safe. We reviewed several board policies as requested by the district and talked about how these rules are in place to keep students safe so they can learn.

Parents also received information about how the discipline process is used when a child struggles to make a good choice at school in the annual discipline letter.  In addition to this information, we also shared that on rare occasions, students making unsafe or highly disruptive choices can be suspended, which means they are not able to be in their classroom for a short time in order to keep everyone safe and learning. We feel it is important that children know what consequences can occur for poor choices at school.

Thank you for your continued focus on safety and learning at Traeger!

~Mrs G. 😃   

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WELCOME TO the pack!

 Amy Roggenbauer - Instructional Support Teacher - Literacy

Hello! My name is Amy Roggenbauer (Mrs. R) and I am an Instructional Support Teacher for Literacy this school year. It is my first year teaching  at Carl Traeger and my 3rd year in the Oshkosh Area School District; however, I have been teaching since 1999. I have been a classroom teacher as well as a Reading Recovery teacher and Reading Specialist. My husband, Buddy and I have been married for 24 years and we have an 18-year-old daughter, Kristen, who is in her first year at UW La Crosse. In my free time, I enjoy reading, playing board games, and watching the Brewers! I am excited to work with both students and staff here at Traeger this year!

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heather wolters - school social worker

Hello! My name is Heather Wolters and I am excited to be a part of the Traeger team. I am the school social worker for Traeger Middle, Traeger El, Oaklawn and Read. I have had the privilege of working in pupil service roles in the Oshkosh Area School district for 20 years. I live in Menasha with my husband Brian and we have two daughters. One who is a sophomore at UWO and our youngest is a junior in high school. In my free time I enjoy traveling, concerts and spending time with family and friends. I am looking forward to being a part of the Traeger school family.

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alicia alsberg - grade 2 teacher

Hello! My name is Alicia Alsberg, and I will be teaching second grade this year. This will be my first 'official' year teaching! I have substitute taught for two years. I completed the RITE Program through CESA6. I had the privilege of student teaching at both Traeger Elementary in 4th Grade and Traeger Middle 6th/8th Grade Literacy. The RITE program was an intense program but I learned so much and I am eager to apply all my knowledge and skills in the classroom. My family loves spending time at Road America, exploring the state and national parks, and going on different adventures. I enjoy anything and everything outside during the summer: gardening, live music, watching the Webfooters, exploring nature, and AirVenture. I am excited to be part of the Traeger Family and I look forward to working with everyone!

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aiden Thull-rost - Teacher associate

Hello! I am Aiden Thull-Rost, the students call me Miss Thull. I am going to be all over the building, helping fill in in the classrooms that need it. Although this is my first year at Carl Traeger, I have been within the district for the last year and a half at Jefferson running their Lighted School House program (after school). I love to be outdoors and travel. I like to paint and bake when I need to wind down or if I have some free time. I look forward to meeting everyone and getting to know Carl Traeger.

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Orange shirt day celebration!

On September 29 we will wear orange to acknowledge the healing journey for those survivors of Indigenous residential schools across the United States and Canada. What is a federal holiday in Canada, is now celebrated by many first nation communities across the United states. "Wearing an orange shirt and promoting the slogan, Every Child Matters, is an affirmation of our commitment to raise awareness of the residential school experience and to ensure that every child matters as we focus on our hope for a better future in which children are empowered to help each other." (orangeshirtday.org).The date was chosen because it is the time of year that children were taken from their homes to residential schools, and because it is an opportunity to set the stage for anti-racism and anti-bullying policies for the coming school year. Orange Shirt Day is also an opportunity for First Nations, local governments, schools and communities to come together in the spirit of reconciliation and hope for generations of children to come. (orangeshirtday.org)

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BLUE SHIRT DAY-OCTOBER 2

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 2, 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 2, 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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We are looking for 3-4 volunteers to walk to school on October 4 for International Walk to School Day. Routes will be determined by the number of volunteers/location, but in the past, we have had locations a little further out so that students can join the group along the way. 

Let Mrs. Wara know no later than September 28 if you are able to help out with a route. Info with starting locations for our routes will go home in Traeger Tales on September 29. Since not all kids are able to walk, we will also offer a walking option at lunch recess. If any parents would like to volunteer to come in and walk with students during lunch recess (K/2nd: 10:35-10:55, 1st/4th: 11:00-11:20, 3rd/5th: 11:25-11:45), please let Mrs. Wara know by September 27.

heidi.wara@oshkosh.k12.wi.us 

All volunteers that are helping out with the walk to school routes and recess walking, will need to complete the district background check process. Please follow the link to complete the background check:  https://www.oshkosh.k12.wi.us/families/volunteer

Note-there is a new process this year!  If you have questions, please call the office.

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Traeger Way Leadership Team

We are looking for a parent representative for our Traeger Way Leadership Team.  Families are important members of the school communities. When schools and families work together toward their common goal of helping all children to be successful, it is much more likely to happen. Families have valuable insights and information about how their children learn best and what types of environmental supports are helpful to them.  Can you commit to one hour a month to our leadership team?  We meet from 3:00-4:00 on the second Monday of the month in the media center.  Children are welcome!   Contact Mrs. G. if you are interested,

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The Carl Traeger Elementary PSC is looking for volunteers to help work the in-person book fair. Students and families can kick-off the school year by purchasing Scholastic books to add to their at-home library and/or to donate books to any of our CTE classrooms. Every purchase at the book fair fundraises Scholastic dollars that we can use to purchase books throughout the school year. 

The weeklong event will cap off with a build your own popcorn social on Friday, September 29th 5:30pm - 7:00pm, so you and your family can grab a snack and grab any last minute books on your list.

Book Fair Hours:
Monday, September 25th Student & Teacher Previews Only (No shopping on this day)

Tuesday, September 26th 10:30am - 6:00pm 

Wednesday, September 27th 10:30am - 4:00pm

Thursday, September 28th 10:30am - 4:00pm

Friday, September 29th 10:30am - 2:30pm & Popcorn Social 5:30pm - 7:00pm

Any help is much appreciated and truly is what makes this book fair possible. Please
visit https://traeger.ptboard.com to sign-up where you can give your time and then more
information will follow closer to the event.

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• September 25-29 
• • Book Fair Week!
• September 25
  • K-Kids 6:00 in LMC
• September 27
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• September 28
  • Green Bay Packer Theme Day
• September 29
  • Book Fair and Popcorn Social 5:30-7:00pm
• October 2
  • Picture Retake Day
• October 3
  • Witt to YMCA
• October 5
  • Sopata/Alsberg to YMCA
• October 4
  • International Walk to School Day
• October 9
  • Green Bay Packer Theme Day
• October 11
  • Walk to School Day
• October 13
  • No School for Students

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

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Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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TRAEGER TALESSeptember 15, 2023: Issue 3

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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• September 18
  • Red Robin Restaurant Day 11:00am-10:00pm
• September 20
  • Walk to School Wednesday
  • Wonderful Wisconsin Theme Day - Wear Red
  • Aronson/Kordus Sailing Field Trip
• September 22
  • No School for Students
• September 25-29 
  • Book Fair Week!
• September 25
  • K-Kids 6:00 in LMC
• September 27
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• September 28
  • Green Bay Packer Theme Day
• September 29
  • Orange Shirt Day
  • Book Fair and Popcorn Social 5:30-7:00pm
• October 2
  • Blue Shirt Day for Anti-bullying
  • Picture Retake Day
• October 4
  • International Walk to School Day

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

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Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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Welcome to the Pack!

 

Melissa Harmon - Art Teacher Grades K-4

Hello! I am Mrs. Harmon and it is my pleasure to teach Art at Traeger this year. This year I teach Kindergarten through fourth grade, as well as two resource classes. I LOVE teaching Art (especially at the elementary level) and have done so in Oshkosh for the last 25 years. I have even taught some CTE parents and teachers! What an honor! I am originally from Green Bay and went to UW Oshkosh for both my bachelors and masters degrees. I live in Winneconne with my husband, high school-aged son and our beloved dog. Besides keeping busy with our son’s school and sporting events, we enjoy being outdoors, enjoying live music and Packer games. I personally love to paint, draw, read, build, sew and write- but even more I love to share these experiences with my students! Thank you for being such a warm and welcoming school. I have loved being a part of the Carl Traeger family already.

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Makayla Keefe - Grade 5 Art Teacher

Hello! My name is Makayla Keefe, and I will be teaching fifth grade art this year. This will be my first full year of teaching. Last year I only taught for half of the year at Jefferson Elementary and Lakeside Elementary, and was student teaching the other half at North High School and here at Carl Traeger Elementary. I am a UW Oshkosh graduate, and also attended UW Stevens Point my first 2 years. In my free time, I love to hike, cook, and make art. I have always loved art and I am so excited to spread that love of art to the students!

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Breana Egan - Speech Language Pathologist

Hi! My name is Breana Egan (students call me Mrs. Bre) and this is my 4th year as a speech language pathologist (SLP). I completed my undergrad and graduate degrees at UW-Stevens Point and have been in the OASD since then. This year, I will be servicing students in Kim Rost's room at CTE. I also provide services to students in the Ready 4 Learning programs at CTE and Shapiro, CTMS, and TRIO Academy. My hubby, Tyler, and I have been married for two years, have loved on our dog Winnie for one year, and have our first bundle of joy on the way! In my free time, I love to read, go camping, enjoy time at our cabin in the Northwoods, go fishing, and spend time with my family and friends! I look forward to working with CTE staff and students this year!
 

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Traeger Way Leadership Team

We are looking for a parent representative for our Traeger Way Leadership Team.  Families are important members of the school communities. When schools and families work together toward their common goal of helping all children to be successful, it is much more likely to happen. Families have valuable insights and information about how their children learn best and what types of environmental supports are helpful to them.  Can you commit to one hour a month to our leadership team?  We meet from 3:00-4:00 on the second Monday of the month in the media center.  Children are welcome!   Contact Mrs. G. if you are interested,

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Walk and Roll Wednesdays

Each Wednesday is Walk/Bike to School Day at Traeger! Students who use non-motorized transportation can receive a punch on their frequent walker/biker card. When a card is filled with ten punches it can be turned into the office for a prize drawing.  Staff will punch cards on Wednesdays when students enter the building.

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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.

PSC Minutes 
9/12/23, 6:00pm - 7:00pm 

Library Media Center or LINK to join virtually

PSC Mission Statement: The purpose of the Carl Traeger Elementary Parents and Staff for Children (PSC) organization is to serve in a voluntary, supportive and cooperative role bringing home, school and the community together; to make all children, parents and staff feel important, special, capable and a part of the community, to support Carl Traeger Elementary school by providing necessary resources for childrens’ educational benefit.

Who are we? PSC Officers:

• President: Nichole Casper 
• Vice President: Megan Paulik
• Events & Volunteer Coordinator: Megan Paulik
• Communication & Outreach Coordinator: Kelly Zanders
• Co-Treasurers: Jolene Halbach & Nick Zanders
• Co-Secretaries: Mandy Stein & Heather Swenson
   

1. Welcome new families & little about the PSC - Nichole

   1. Calendar of events

   2. New this year, Restaurant Days - Adding one each month because it’s a simple way to make money with little effort on our end

   3. Concert socials

      1. Change from ice cream to something else

      2. Funds are solely designated for the playground

   4. Why to volunteer 

      1. 5 PRIDE PRINTS - Students can purchase staff time or goodies 

      2. Event chairs get reserved seating at concert or Bingo nights

      3. Support the school - Books, field trips, staff appreciation, Field Day, classroom supplies, PBIS, SOAR, etc.

   5. PTBoard - One stop location for event and volunteer sign 

2. Icebreaker

3. Upcoming Fundraisers & Events

   1. Red Robin - Megan

      1. 9/18 - Time TBD due to changes in fundraising requirements

   2. Book Fair & Popcorn Social - Kenlin

      1. Book Fair: September 25th-29th

      2. Popcorn Social: Friday, the 29th 

      3. Budget: $100 

      4. Need Book Fair volunteers for 1-4 pm and one evening and need some for popcorn social

      5. Book fair packets go home next week

      6. Supports birthday books - handed out on each child’s birthday (or half birthday if actual birthday is in the summer)

   3. Photography Fundraiser - Kelly

      1. October 8th, 11th, & 13th

      2. Local photographer - 15 min sessions

      3. $125 for a session and $50 comes back to school

   4. Craft Fair - Nichole

      1. Setup: Friday, October 20th

      2. Bake Sale/Event: Saturday, October 21st

      3. 80 vendors

      4. NEED VOLUNTEERS

         1. Looking for someone to shadow concessions because chair will not be doing it next year 

4. Donation for Conferences

   1. $300 to feed 48 teachers for two dates

5. Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities 

   1. Book Fair

   2. Popcorn Social

   3. Craft Fair

   4. Trunk or Treat

      1. Thursday, Oct 26th

      2. Hot chocolate 

         1. Brewing Futures came last year but we’re looking to sell our own hot chocolate this year so need volunteers (budget: $100)

         2. Or looking for donation from a business

      3. Create candy donation box

         1. Needed by September 18th

         2. Box will be placed in vestibule for candy donations (must be individually wrapped)

   5. Teacher Appreciation Monthly

      1. Sign up to sponsor a month

6. Treasurer Report - Jolene

   1. Budget is planned in April so it can be voted on in May

   2. Restaurant Days - share with friends & family

   3. Coca Cola days - bring them in if you don’t want to enter

7. Future Agenda

   1. PSC Meeting: October 12th

   2. Book Fair update - Megan

   3. Trunk or Treat: Thursday, October 26th - Nichole 

      1. In need of individually wrapped candy donations

   4. Herd game - Nichole

   5. Looking for volunteers for the Social after the K-2 Concert on Monday, November 20th

   6. Brighten Someone’s Holiday - Katie

8. Motion to adjourn: Megan; Second: Jolene

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We're excited to announce Carl Traeger Elementary PSC's Restaurant Days. Each month, CTE is partnering with a different local restaurant who will provide our school with a kickback of their proceeds on a designated date and this month, we're thrilled to kickstart it with Red Robin Gourmet Burgers! All you have to do is grab a bite to eat between 11:00am - 10:00pm on Monday, September 18th and mention Traeger/this fundraiser, then we can 20% of the sale. Easy and beneficial for our school! So don't worry about meal prep or making something for the family come Monday, and stop by RR all for a good cause!

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The Carl Traeger Elementary PSC is looking for volunteers to help work the in-person book fair. Students and families can kick-off the school year by purchasing Scholastic books to add to their at-home library and/or to donate books to any of our CTE classrooms. Every purchase at the book fair fundraises Scholastic dollars that we can use to purchase books throughout the school year. 

The weeklong event will cap off with a build your own popcorn social on Friday, September 29th 5:30pm - 7:00pm, so you and your family can grab a snack and grab any last minute books on your list.

Book Fair Hours:

Monday, September 25th Student & Teacher Previews Only (No shopping on this day)

Tuesday, September 26th 10:30am - 6:00pm 

Wednesday, September 27th 10:30am - 4:00pm

Thursday, September 28th 10:30am - 4:00pm

Friday, September 29th 10:30am - 2:30pm & Popcorn Social 5:30pm - 7:00pm

Any help is much appreciated and truly is what makes this book fair possible. Please visit https://traeger.ptboard.com to sign-up where you can give your time and then more information will follow closer to the event.

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• September 18
  • Red Robin Restaurant Day 11:00am-10:00pm
• September 20
  • Walk to School Wednesday
  • Wonderful Wisconsin Theme Day - Wear Red
  • Aronson/Kordus Sailing Field Trip
• September 22
  • No School for Students
• September 25-29 
  • Book Fair Week!
• September 25
  • K-Kids 6:00 in LMC
• September 27
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• September 28
  • Green Bay Packer Theme Day
• September 29
  • Book Fair and Popcorn Social 5:30-7:00pm
• October 2
  • Picture Retake Day
• October 4
  • International Walk to School Day

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

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Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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TRAEGER TALESSeptember 8, 2023: Issue 3

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Fulfilled, happy, confident, responsible, kind, and loving. We have learned that these are goals families want for their children, and as teachers, what we want for our students.

We recognize that as a family member, you are our students’ first teacher and we want to partner with you to help our children become tolerant, compassionate, and caring adults. To support achieving these goals and to help our students build their social and emotional skills, we are pleased to share that we are implementing Harmony SEL in our school community.

Social and emotional learning (SEL) helps children by promoting their health and emotional well-being and contributing to the prevention of violence, truancy, bullying, and substance abuse. In addition, SEL is associated with significant gains on academic achievement tests.

Harmony is designed to build healthy relationships among students by having them engage in activities that promote understanding and respect. Over the course of the five units listed below, students will enhance their abilities to learn, work, and spend time together.

• Diversity and Inclusion
• Critical Thinking
• Communication
• Problem Solving
• Peer Relationships

Information will be sent home periodically, sharing activities in each unit. You will find out more about Harmony Goals, Meet Up, Buddy Up, and other fun strategies being used in the classroom. We welcome your feedback. To learn more about Harmony please visit harmonysel.org.

Thank you for your support! ~Mrs. G. 😃

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Hello, Traeger Families - We are excited to announce an improved field trip process for families. Beginning in the 2023-2024 school year, all field trip permission slips will be electronic and we are moving to cashless payments for field trips. This is a new process for our entire district and is meant to streamline and improve our service to families. 

Additional information will be shared by teachers as they plan for field trips. However, we want to highlight the following features: 

• Our new online field trip process must be completed via the Infinite Campus Parent Portal. 

• All online transaction fees have been waived, including payments made by credit card, debit card, and checking/savings account. 

• If a field trip is sponsored by the district, the cost of the trip is waived for families who are eligible and approved to receive free and reduced priced meals. (This will be communicated to impacted families.)

Our school secretary will be available to assist families as needed and if a parent/guardian is unable to complete the online field trip process, we can provide support in-person or over the phone. 

We look forward to providing your child(ren) with enriching field trip experiences that contribute to their educational journey. We appreciate your continued partnership and engagement!

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Children may arrive at 7:30 and enter their assigned door to go to their classroom.  The staff work day begins at 7:30 therefore 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.  4K parents need to accompany their child to the their meeting spot. Please ensure that your child is dropped off in time to enter the building through their assigned door.  Should you need an earlier drop off time, the YMCA does offer before school childcare services.  More information can be found at the LINK.

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Safety and Security at Carl Traeger Elementary

The Oshkosh Area School District is deeply committed to keeping students, staff, and school communities safe, secure, and focused on teaching and learning. The District’s Emergency Preparedness Collaborative Operations Team (EPCOT) is continually reviewing current and past safety events, along with proactive strategies to address the ongoing and ever-changing needs of school safety. Additionally, each school has an extensive emergency management plan that is reviewed regularly. Please see below for a few important safety and security reminders specific to Carl Traeger Elementary.

Carl Traeger Elementary, along with all schools in the district, provides a secure entrance.  Upon arrival, visitors must ring the doorbell to gain access to the building.  Visitors who are dropping off items such as lunches, boots, etc. will be asked to leave the item on the table in the vestibule.  Office staff will retrieve the items and arrange for students to pick them up.  The door between the vestibule and the office will remain locked at all times.

If visitors need access beyond the vestibule, the door will be unlocked and visitors will enter the office.  All visitors who enter the building, need to sign in through our kiosk system.    A visitor badge will be issued and must be worn and visible while in the building.  Visitors must check out at the office when leaving.

IMPORTANT:  EVERY visitor must gain access to the vestibule via the office screening process.  Visitors should NOT let other people into the building who are behind them or when they are exiting the building.  

REMINDER: Review and update your Emergency Contact Settings in IC! In an emergency, District staff will work with school staff to notify families of the situation as quickly as possible. To ensure that you receive emergency communications from the District please check your Contact Preferences within Infinite Campus (IC). You can choose how you are notified in an emergency situation, and update your phone number(s) and email addresses if needed.

Instructions - Updating Emergency Notification Settings in IC

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IMPORTANT CONFERENCE DATES 2023-2024!! 

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

November 9 and November 14 3:30-6:45 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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At Carl Traeger Elementary, we prioritize the well-being and academic success of our students. To create an optimal learning environment, we have adopted a "Water-Only" policy for beverages in the classroom. We believe that staying hydrated is crucial for young minds to stay focused, alert, and engaged throughout the school day. Therefore, we kindly ask that students bring only water to sip on during class time. Water not only supports cognitive function but also fosters healthy habits that can last a lifetime. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us provide a refreshing and productive space for our students to learn and thrive.

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SCHOOL APPAREL

We have a Carl Traeger Elementary school spirit wear that is always available for ordering!

Just order online, pay and have it sent directly to your students' classroom. 

Here is the link below:

https://fourfoldvinylandboutique.com/collections/carl-traeger-elementary

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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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Communication with Staff

We are so fortunate to have a staff full of dedicated professionals at Carl Traeger Elementary who have chosen education for their careers. Although we know our staff are superheroes, they are not superhuman. Like all of us, they require downtime to dedicate to themselves and their loved ones in order to rest and recharge so they can be at their best for your children each day. 

In order to be mindful of their need for downtime, teachers are not expected to respond to contacts after their contract hours. In addition, we live in an age of instant access. However, our teachers are busy throughout the day providing our students with the love and attention they need to learn and grow. Therefore, it is not always possible to respond to communication immediately.

It IS an expectation that our staff:

1. Respond to all communication within 36 hours

2. Staff will not respond to emails between the hours of 6:00pm and 6:00am or on weekends/holidays

3. Provide consistent communication and keep families informed 

4. Respect the privacy of all students and maintain professionalism in all communication

We also know that school is not our students’ whole lives. Your children need down time, play time and family time so they are able to come to school each day prepared to put forth their best. Therefore, any homework that is assigned is intended to reinforce the skills we are working on at school. 

We look forward to partnering with you as we support learning and growth this year!

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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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Recently, the Wisconsin RtI Center recognized our school in BEHAVIOR at the SILVER level for our work toward fully implementing a school-wide system that, according to national research, leads to improved student outcomes.

By establishing our equitable, multi-level system of supports, we increase consistency of effective instruction, build staff knowledge and skills to equitably support all learners, use data to proactively identify and provide support for students, and create a positive culture that nurtures relationships with students and their families, and communities. This strong foundation helps learners gain the skills needed to graduate ready for college or a career!

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News From the Office

• Student hours for 2022-2023 are 7:45am-2:45pm.  All K-5 students should enter the building through door 21 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.

• 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! There is no school on September 22.

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Dear Carl Traeger Elementary Families, 

We are excited to announce that Girls on the Run will return to Carl Traeger Elementary this fall!  Girls on the Run will meet twice a week for 90 minutes starting the week of September 12th.  Practices will be Tuesdays and Thursdays 3:00pm-4:30pm starting on the school playground.  There will be a celebration 5k run Saturday, November 11th at Fox Valley Technical College in Appleton. The season ends on November 16th with our final practice. 

You can register online at www.girlsontherunnew.org.  The full program fee is $160.00; however financial assistance is available.  GIRLS ON THE RUN IS FOR EVERY GIRL.  No one is ever denied access to the program based on financial circumstances.  Pay what you can!  Simply check the box requesting financial assistance when you register.  The program fee includes 20 lessons, handouts and supplies, registration for the 5k event, a program shirt, 5k run shirt, water bottle, healthy snacks at each practice, finisher’s medal, a 5k goody bag, and trained Girls on the Run coaches.

What is Girls on the Run? Utilizing a fun, research based, experience-based curriculum, the program creatively integrates running to inspire 3rd through 5th grade girls to be joyful, healthy and confident. Meeting two times per week in small teams, we teach life skills through dynamic, conversation-based lessons and running games. The 20-lesson curriculum is delivered by certified Girls on the Run® coaches and includes three parts: understanding ourselves, valuing teamwork and understanding how we connect with and shape the world at large. 

We believe that life-changing experiences can be fun too—for everyone—the girls, coaches, families and other volunteers. A typical Girls on the Run practice will include laughter along with self-reflection, beaming smiles and radiant faces. Here, girls learn that there are no limits and no constraints. Only opportunities to be remarkable. At Girls on the Run, running is not just a metaphor. We use this activity to inspire and motivate girls, encourage lifelong health and fitness, and build confidence through accomplishment. We invite you to learn more about Girls on the Run by visiting us at www.girlsontherunnew.org.

Please contact me at kaelee.heideman@oshkosh.k12.wi.us with any questions!

Sincerely,
Kaelee Heideman, School Counselor and Girls on the Run Coach

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PSC Photo Fundraiser

October is the perfect time to get in gorgeous photos with your loved ones. We're excited to work with local photographer, Alicia Jennerjohn and her business, Jenali, to offer this incredible deal for our CTE families! $125 includes a 15-minute photo session at the beautiful Sheldon Nature Preserve. You will receive all edited photos plus $50 from each session will go to our PSC in order to support our year-round events for the school. Upon registering, please pay for your session in full via Venmo at @jenali2020. If payment has not been received within 48 hours of signing up, Alicia will reach out with a reminder. If payment has not been paid within 24 hours of your reminder, your name will be removed from your session and the timeslot will become available for another family. We know things happen. In the event you need to cancel, you will be refunded $75 of the $125 purchase. The remaining $50 will be donated to the PSC. Please review the available spots at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0c4eafa92ca4fec43-photo#/ and click on the signup button to get your spot!

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PSC Agenda 
9/12/23, 6:00pm - 7:00pm 

Library Media Center or LINK to join virtually

PSC Mission Statement: The purpose of the Carl Traeger Elementary Parents and Staff for Children (PSC) organization is to serve in a voluntary, supportive and cooperative role bringing home, school and the community together; to make all children, parents and staff feel important, special, capable and a part of the community, to support Carl Traeger Elementary school by providing necessary resources for childrens’ educational benefit.

Who are we? PSC Officers:

• President: Nichole Casper 
• Vice President: Megan Paulik
• Events & Volunteer Coordinator: Megan Paulik
• Communication & Outreach Coordinator: Kelly Zanders
• Co-Treasurers: Jolene Halbach & Nick Zanders
• Co-Secretaries: Mandy Stein & Heather Swenson
   

1. Welcome new families & little about the PSC - Nichole

2. Icebreaker

3. Upcoming Fundraisers & Events

   1. Red Robin - Megan

   2. Book Fair & Popcorn Social: September 25th-29th - Megan

      1. Popcorn Social: Friday, the 29th 

      2. Budget:

   3. Photography Fundraiser: October 8th, 11th, & 13th - Kelly

   4. Craft Fair: Saturday, October 21st - Nichole

      1. Setup: Friday, October 20th

      2. Bake Sale

4. Donation for Conferences

5. Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities 

   1. Book Fair

   2. Popcorn Social

   3. Craft Fair

6. Treasurer Report

7. Future Agenda

   1. October 12th PSC meeting

   2. Book Fair update - Megan

   3. Trunk or Treat: Thursday, October 26th - Nichole 

      1. Create monster box

      2. In need of individually wrapped candy donations

   4. Herd game - Nichole

   5. Looking for volunteers for the Ice Cream Social after the K-2 Concert on Monday, November 20th

   6. Brighten Someone’s Holiday - Katie

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• September 12
  • 6:00pm PSC mtg. in LMC
• September 13
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• September 15
  • Amel Sailing Field Trip
• September 20
  • Walk to School Wednesday
  • Wonderful Wisconsin Theme Day - Wear Red
  • Aronson/Kordus Sailing Field Trip
• September 22
  • No School for Students
• September 25-29 
  • Book Fair Week!
• September 25
  • K-Kids 6:00 in LMC
• September 27
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• September 28
  • Green Bay Packer Theme Day
• September 29
  • Book Fair and Popcorn Social 5:30-7:00pm
• October 2
  • Picture Retake Day

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

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Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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TRAEGER TALESAugust 2023: Issue 1

ANOTHER GREAT YEAR BEGINS!

Carl Traeger Elementary is gearing up for the 2023-2024 school year!  Classroom and building preparations are underway as we anxiously await the arrival of students!  The first day of school will be here before you know it!  Students in grades 1-5 will begin on September 1.  The district is doing a staggered start schedule for kindergarten, with some students starting on September 1 and others starting on September 5.  Families have been notified of their kindergartener's start date.  ALL kindergarteners will attend school on September 6.

Our K-5 Open House and Get to Know You Conferences will once again be held before the start of the school year.   Kindergarten families with a September 1 start date are invited to a parent information session at 4:30pm on August 24 in the media center.  Families will be able to visit their child's classroom from 5:00-6:00pm.   Kindergarten families with a September 5 start date will have their parent information session and classroom visit on August 29 with the same timeframe.   Each grade 1-5 family will schedule a 15 minute appointment on August 24 or August 29 to bring in school supplies and meet the teacher.  We are excited to offer this one-on-one time before the school year starts.  Get to Know You Conference sign up for first-fifth graders begins August 15 at 8:00am.  https://www.ptcfast.com/schools/Carl_Traeger_Elementary.  Families will receive information about class placement via email on August 14.

We are excited to be able to offer school pictures on August 24 and 29 as well.  Please have your child’s picture taken AFTER your conference so that we can stay on schedule.  You can prepay for your pictures at the LINK.  Yearbook sales will take place second semester.

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 this visit 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.)

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Meet Mrs. G.

This is my 24th 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 thirteenth 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 37 years.   Our son, CJ, is 34 and our daughter, Emma, is 32. 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 baby,” Nutmeg and we are expecting a puppy in December.  In my free time I enjoy gardening, reading, traveling, decorating for the holidays, knitting, home projects, cooking and strumming my ukulele.  

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 😃

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Carl Traeger Elementary Classroom Teachers 2023-2024

4K

Mrs. Gorski, Ms. Gruss & Ms. Horsch

Kindergarten

Mrs. Ballard, Mrs. Minten & Mrs. VanHeuklon

First Grade

Mr. Demeny, Mrs. Martin & Ms. Weiss

Second Grade

Mrs. Alsberg, Mrs. Sopata & Mrs. Witt

Third Grade

Mrs. Branson, Mrs. Gustafson, & Mrs. Trebiatowski

Fourth Grade

Mr. Amel, Ms. Aronson, & Mrs. Kordus

Fifth Grade

Mr. Clark, Mrs. Nyman, Mrs. Purtell, & Mrs. Toppins

Special Education

Ms. Hartwig, Mrs. Rost & Mrs. Walsh

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Please welcome our new staff:   

• Mrs. Alsberg - Second Grade Teacher
• Ms. Gruss - 4K Teacher
• Mrs. Harmon - Art Teacher
• Ms. Horsch - 4K Teacher
• Ms. Jirschele - 4K Para
• Ms. Keefe - Art Teacher
• Ms. Lange - PE Teacher
• Mrs. Roggenbauer - Literacy Resource Teacher
• Mrs. Sander - School Secretary
• Mrs. Toppins - Fifth Grade Teacher
• Ms. Wolters - Social Worker

Due to the number of sections this year, we again have additional support for art (Makayla Keefe), music (Maria Cibula) and physical education (Taylor Lange).  First hour each day will be taught to fifth graders by these traveling staff members.

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News From the Office

• Watch for a separate communication with arrival and dismissal procedures.  in an effort to enhance our security, all K-5 students will use door 21 to enter school in the morning.

• Student hours for 2023-2024 are 7:45-2:45.   If students arrive in the classroom after 7:45 they are marked tardy.

• In an effort to provide safety and security, the doors remain locked before, during and after the school day.  

• Breakfast will be served in the classroom.  We do NOT have early arrival time for breakfast.

• Students may arrive at 7:30am-no earlier.  The YMCA provides before school childcare for families who may need it.  Students should NOT be playing on the playground before school.  More specific information will be provided closer to the start of school.

• Carl Traeger and Food Service invite you to have lunch with your child any school day.  If you wish to order a school lunch, please call the office at least two days in advance so a lunch will be ready for you.

• Please read the attendance procedures in the Family Handbook.  Students are only allowed to miss part or all of 10 school days for any reason the entire year.  This includes illness, vacation, weddings, funerals, ...anything.  Any vacation days taken after 10 absences will be unexcused.

• Oshkosh Transit System provides service to Traeger.  The cost is FREE!  Maps and detailed information are in the school office and the Family Handbook.  Please contact Oshkosh Transit System at 232-5340 for more information on this service.

• If your child requires medication to be administered during the school day, please drop off completed Medication/Treatment Request forms and medications in the originally labeled containers to the school office, preferably before school starts.

• The YMCA offers child care at our school site before and after school hours.  Please contact them for more information, as the program fills up quickly!  More information about enrollment can be found at the LINK.

• As you review supply lists for the school year, please note teachers may have additional supplies requested in their teacher letter.  Teachers may also have additional requests of supplies for the classroom after school begins.

• 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 on sight after school child care.  Children age 8 and up who are YMCA members are able to walk to the YMCA after school.

• Thanks to our custodial crew for all their hard work in preparing for another school year!  It is great to start the year with shiny floors, clean rooms and tidy hallways!

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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.”

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• August 24
  • 4:00-7:15pm Get to Know You Conferences by appointment/Kindergarten Family Meeting 4:30pm
• August 29
  • 4:00-7:15pm Get to Know You Conferences by appointment/Kindergarten Family Meeting 4:30pm
• August 31
  • Chalk the Walk
  • Kindergarten Play Date 4:00-6:00pm
• September 1
  • Grades 1-5 First Day of School; select kindergarten students
• September 4
  • Labor Day - No School
• September 5
  • First day of school for select kindergarten students
• September 6
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• September 12
  • 6:00pm PSC mtg. in LMC
• September 13
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• September 20
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• September 22
  • No School for Students
• September 25-29 
  • Book Fair Week!
• September 27
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• September 29
  • Book Fair and Popcorn Social 5:30-7:00pm
• October 2
  • Picture Retake Day

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

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Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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TRAEGER TALESJune 2, 2023: Issue 37

 

A WONDERFUL YEAR!

Thank you for another wonderful year at Traeger Elementary! The children have done so much wonderful learning throughout the year.  It is hard to believe the year is coming to an end!

Thank you for sharing your children with us each day. Traeger has a community of families that is generous, giving, and supportive. We appreciate you all!

Thank you for ALL your support as we continued to navigate education during a pandemic.  Caregiver support is one of our greatest assets at Traeger. We appreciate your time and care!

Thank you for sharing your ideas, concerns, and successes with us throughout the year. The partnership with our families is so beneficial in educating the children, and we appreciate the feedback!

Thank you for continuing to encourage learning over the summer! Keep your child reading, writing, and computing throughout the summer. Children are curious and love to learn new things, and learning with their family over summer is a great extension to the classroom!

Thank you for sharing your children with us.  We will see you at Get to Know You Conferences August 24 and 29, and on the first day of school on September 1.  

 ~ Mrs. G. 🙂 

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LOOKING AHEAD TO 2023-2024

While we wrap up one terrific school year, we are also preparing for the upcoming year. The district has reviewed the status of the budget and enrollment numbers. Staffing is based on district guidelines which include kindergarten through third grades at 24 students and grades four and five at 27 students.  Based on these guidelines we have some shifting.  We will continue with three sections K-2, go down a section at third grade, have three sections at fourth grade and increase a section at fifth grade.  Ms. Aronson will be moving from fourth to fifth grade.  We will also be welcoming another 4K classroom.

We have several staffing changes.  Ms. Jensema, Ms. Moucha, Mrs. Schiltz and Mrs. Terzynski are retiring-see their messages below.  Our art position has been filled by Melissa Harmon, who is joining us from Oaklawn.  Mrs. Hellmer is moving to Berlin to teach 4K.  Mrs. Larscheid has been reassigned to Shaprio/Lakeside and Breana Eagan will be taking over her caseload.  Mrs. Lepper has accepted a second grade position at Oaklawn.  Ms. Moon is relocating to Milwaukee and will be teaching at her former elementary school!  Ms. Larson will be at the Merrill/Webster site next year and Mrs. Zerbe will be at Tipler.  Our extra art and PE sections will be taught by the Jefferson staff - Taylor Lange and Makayla Keefe.  Ms. Cibula transferred to Jefferson so she will be staying with us for music.  Watch for further updates next fall. 

We wish everyone well as they embark on new adventures and look forward to getting to know our new school family members!  We are looking forward to continuing the Traeger tradition of excellence in education for 2023-2024! 

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CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR RETIREES! 

chari Jensema - school social worker

How long have you been in the OASD?  What positions have you held and what buildings have you been in?

I have worked for OASD for 10 years. I have worked as a school social worker. I have worked at CTE, CTM, Washington, Jefferson, Read, Merrill El,, Merrill M. and Oaklawn Elementary schools.

What is the largest change you have seen in education over the span of your career?

Public schools have become wrap-around services for many students and families, providing many services such as mental health treatment, teaming with local agencies to provide support within the school setting. 

What advice do you have for students?

Always believe in yourself no matter what obstacles you face. Follow your passion and explore your career path with something you love to do

What big plans do you have for the future?

My plans for the future are to travel, spend as much time in the winter at my Florida home and spend time with my family.

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Teresa Moucha - Art Teacher

How long have you been in the OASD?  What positions have you held and what buildings have you been in?

I taught Art part-time in Chippewa Falls for 3 years and then I moved to Oshkosh where I have taught for 28 years. I have taught art at Jefferson, Oaklawn, Lakeside, Franklin, Smith, Oakwood, Traeger Middle and South Park Middle. I was on the original Traeger Elementary opening team 26 years ago.

What is the largest change you have seen in education over the span of your career?

The biggest change in education is in the area of technology! Some of the changes in content delivery are so amazing as with our BenQ boards and Google Drive. Covid took our new skills with technology to a new level when we taught virtually. 

What advice do you have for students?

For my students, "Always follow your intuition fearlessly and keep making amazing art from your heart!"

What big plans do you have for the future?

I have started a business, HeArt Center Studios LLC. and look forward to making art, practicing Yoga, and sharing my love of both with others. I am retiring full of gratitude for having been given my career here in Oshkosh and at Carl Traeger Elementary. 

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Sharon Schiltz - Autism Paraprofessional

How long have you been in the OASD?  What positions have you held and what buildings have you been in?

I have worked for Oasd for 12 years. I have worked as a teacher assistant at Shapiro elementary. I then worked at Carl Traeger Middle as an assistant. My final 4 years have been at Carl Traeger Elementary.

What is the largest change you have seen in education over the span of your career?

The largest change I have seen is,more of a focus on working as a team with students and staff, being a school family.

What advice do you have for students?

My advise to students is to keep working hard like you are and know you are valuable and loved. 

What big plans do you have for the future?

To start my retirement off, I will be have the pleasure of seeing my son get married. My family will being going on a mission trip to help at an orphanage in Nicaragua in August. I have been blessed to work with such wonderful staff and students and will miss you all.

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Ann Terzynski - Literacy Instructional Support Teacher

How long have you been in the OASD?  What positions have you held and what buildings have you been in?

I have had a great career in the OASD for the past 26 years!  I have worked at Jefferson Elementary for 11 years as a Teacher of Students with Learning Disabilities.  I moved to Merrill Elementary and worked a a literacy coach and interventionist for around 5 years.  During this time at Merrill, I also provided qualifying students at Lourdes, Trinity Lutheran, Martin Luther, Grace Lutheran and Valley Christian Schools literacy intervention.  In 2013, I moved to Carl Traeger Elementary as a Literacy Interventionist and continued my teaching at the Oshkosh private schools.

What is the largest change you have seen in education over the span of your career?

The greatest change I have seen in education over the past 26 years is the use of technology to help students and staff access resources to help learning and have new ways to express themselves.

What advice do you have for students?

After much thought, I would remind students to be curious about the world around you.  Learn about people, ideas, and places by reading and talking with people.  Being curious can help you stay positive about yourself, make connections with people and help you grow personally.

What big plans do you have for the future?

My plans for retirement include travel to Australia to visit family and friends.  My husband and I are also planning on relocating to Houston to be closer to my 3 adult children.  I want to thank the Carl Traeger School and Parent community for providing many opportunities for me to teach in my chose speciality area and help children grow academically and personally.  Over the past 10 years, I have worked with many excellent and caring educators.  I have also been fortunate to have the guidance and leadership of our principal, Mrs. G. I have had a very satisfying career.  Thank you to all.

 

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SCHOOL GARDENS

We are in need of volunteers to weed and water our school garden beds!   So far only one family has signed up!

If you are interested, please click on this LINK and sign up for a week to water.

Note: A watering “key” is needed to turn on the outdoor watering spout.  The key will need to be passed from one family to another. Please include your contact info on the sign up document so you can plan how to hand off the key to the next person/family.

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Tips to Make Summer Reading Happen

by Mrs. Runde

1. CHOICE: Let your kids choose the books that they read. Kids Need to Pick Out Books.

2. BOUNTY: Fill your house with lots of books. More books = more chances for your children to find a fantastic, amazing, very good book that they can’t put down.

Recently, we set a new money spent record at the bookstore. Gulp. I shouldn’t even tell you but it was well over $300. There’s something magical about mom taking you to the bookstore where you can pick all the books you want to read. (Magically expensive. But worth it.)

Of course, we do visit the library weekly, and it’s much more economical.

3. LIBRARY: Use your library. Let your kids go WILD and check out lots of books!

4. TIME: Kids need opportunities for reading. So, make sure they’re not filling all their time with TV, video games, and iPad time.

5. TECHNOLOGY: Don’t forget about audiobooks, Kindles, iPads, and Nook reading. Ebooks and audiobooks count as reading, too. (See: audiobooks for tweens & audiobooks for teens.)

6. READABILITY: Make sure your child is reading books that he or she can actually comprehend. When choosing a book, use the 5 finger test to decide if it’s a just-right book. During and after reading, ask your child to tell you a little bit about the story. If you haven’t read the story, read the back and ask questions pertaining to that summary. Make sure your child is understanding what he reads — and that he KNOWS IF HE DOESN’T. For more clarity about reading comprehension, visit this post.

7. COZY READING SPACE: Kids LOVE a Cozy Book Nook. It doesn’t have to be fancy but it does need to involve the kids. Find a corner – those work best. Let your child add pillows, lamps, books, stuffed animals, a headlamp or flashlight, and create a special space.

Read more tips on how to make an enticing book nook.

8. DOWNTIME: Kids Need Margins Just Like We Do. We all need unscheduled time to rest and relax. Kids especially. Remember to make time during the day for rest and reading.

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• June 27
  • Sparty's Water Games 1:00pm on the playground
• July 31
  • Sparty's Birthday Bash 1:00pm on the playground
• August 14
  • Sparty's Dog Days of Summer Fun 1:00pm on the playground
• August 24
  • Get to Know You Conferences/School Pictures 4-7:15pm
  • Kindergarten Parent Meeting Time TBD
• August 29
  • Get to Know You Conferences/School Pictures 4-7:15pm
  • Kindergarten Parent Meeting Time TBD 
• September 1
  • First Day of School!

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

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Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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This is the final edition of Traeger Tales for 2022-2023!

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TRAEGER TALESMay 26, 2023: Issue 36

END OF YEAR CONVERSATIONS 

With the end of this school year in sight, do what you can to make sure your child finishes strong and feels good about the end of the school year—and excited about what’s to come!

•  Ask your child about his/her experiences this year. What were the best parts of the year? What were the hardest parts? Is there anything you wish you would have done differently? What new friends did you make?
•  Talk about next year. If your child is transitioning to a new school, talk about what the school will be like, and what your child can expect. Check out the school’s website and visit the school if possible.
•  Ask your child to start thinking about what he/she would like to accomplish this summer, perhaps read a certain number of books or learn a new skill (e.g., rollerblade, draw on the computer, play tennis).

STAYING ENGAGED IN CLASS

Toward the end of the school year, student engagement in class (paying attention and participating) can diminish. This can make classes frustrating and unproductive. Here’s how you can help.

• Talk to your child about the importance of finishing the year strong. If you see your child starting to slack off, monitor his/her homework and grades more closely.
• As a way to encourage your child to stay focused on learning, each night at dinner, challenge your child to share two things he/she learned in school that day.
• Remind your child to stay engaged and to ask and answer questions in class. Students are much more engaged when they raise their hands often and participate in class discussions. They also find that the time goes a lot faster.

TALK ABOUT IT!

Talk to your child about how he/she feels about this year coming to a close. Some kids feel excited, nervous, and sad—sometimes all at once. Make sure your child knows that all these feelings are normal.

~Mrs. G. 😃 

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BEING SMART WITH SCREEN TIME

As school days wind down and the amount of free time your child has sky rockets, many parents find that an increase in screen time (using a tablet, computer, phone, or TV) sky rockets as well. Here are some tips for making sure your child has a healthy relationship with technology over the summer.

Keep it about learning. Your child likely enjoys using technology for entertainment and learning, but without direction from teachers, the learning often falls by the wayside. Look for opportunities to keep it educational, such as restricting technology use to educational games and apps only, or allowing your child to practice writing skills by exchanging emails (with your supervision) with friends and family.

Encourage activity and creativity.

Rather than passively sitting and watching videos for hours, encourage your child to make his/her own videos on a topic of his/her choice. Your child might narrate instructional videos about building LEGO sets, how to do a particular dance, or do a craft. Send the videos to family and friends, or watch them all together.

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Old PE shoes that you no longer have a need for? Mrs. Wara will have a shoe donation bucket outside the gym door for gently used gym shoes to be donated! 

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Last Day of School Dismissal traffic on the last day of school is typically VERY heavy. It is often difficult to get in or out of the driveway on that day.  Please plan ahead and consider walking or biking to school next week.  If you do drive to school on the last day, please be prepared for long traffic lines upon departure. Thank you!

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End-of-Year Celebration

The countdown to the last day of school has begun! 

To celebrate and say goodbye for the summer, all Traeger students, staff and parents are invited to attend the end-of-year celebration and dance. This will be held on the playground from 1:30-2:30 pm on Friday, June 2.  Ed Eaton from Sound Sensations Entertainment will be our DJ and each student will receive a popsicle during the event.

At 2:30 pm all students must go back inside with their teachers for final wrap-up and goodbyes. Students will be dismissed at 2:45 pm.   

Volunteers are needed to help with this event. Please head to https://traeger.ptboard.com/ to see what volunteer opportunities are available and how you can help.

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• What: 5th Grade Advancement/DARE Graduation
• Who: Parents and Family of 5th Grade Students
• When: Thursday, June 1 at 1:30 PM (Gallery Walk at 1:15)
• Where: Carl Traeger Elementary School Gym

We hope you can join us as we celebrate elementary school and bid our 5th graders farewell!

The fifth grade celebration is Thursday, June 1 at 1:30. Parents are invited to come watch their fifth graders be recognized for successful completion of the elementary years and the DARE curriculum!

This year students will be participating in one of many ways: greeting guests, saying the Pledge of Allegiance, singing the school song, sharing a favorite memory, presenting the class gift, or participating in a gallery walk of their favorite projects. Students are encouraged to dress nicely for this event.

Parents will have the opportunity to enjoy the gallery walk from 1:15 to 1:30 or immediately after the ceremony.  The gallery walk will be set up in the elementary school gym.   After the ceremony we will have a reception in the cafeteria with with cookies and lemonade.  Students and families can mingle and reminisce about all the great times we have had together.

Join us in the elementary school gym as we honor our fifth grade students and send them off to middle school!

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SCHOOL GARDENS

We are in need of volunteers to weed and water our school garden beds!  

If you are interested, please click on this LINK and sign up for a week to water.

Note: A watering “key” is needed to turn on the outdoor watering spout.  The key will need to be passed from one family to another. Please include your contact info on the sign up document so you can plan how to hand off the key to the next person/family.

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• May 29 
  • No School - Memorial Day
• May 31
  • Walk to School Wednesday
  • Third Grade to Bubolz
• June 1
  • Second Grade to Green Bay Botanical Gardens
  • 5th Grade Advancement/DARE Graduation 1:30pm
• June 2
  • Last Day of School!
  • Dance Party on the Playground 1:30pm

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

---

Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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TRAEGER TALESMay 19, 2023: Issue 35

 

COPING WITH ANXIETY 

It’s normal to get anxious in a new situation.  When your child has to face something new, here are some concrete steps you can take as a parent to help ease them in.

1. Validate, validate, validate.
Tell your child that what they’re feeling is normal. It is perfectly okay for a child to feel their feelings, even if those emotions aren’t comfortable. Gently commenting on those feelings won’t make them worse—it will actually help your child feel understood. Try something like, “It’s okay to feel worried,” or “It’s hard to try new things sometimes.”

2. Keep a “You can do it!” attitude.
Express full confidence in your child’s ability to manage the situation they are in. Let them know that you believe they can handle the new challenge (even if it is hard). You can say statements like, “You’ve got this,” or “I know you can handle this.”

This confidence will work really well with your validation to show your child that you understand what they’re going through but still know they can do it. It might sound like, “I know you’re worried about going to the birthday party, AND I know you can do it.”

3. Take small steps toward a goal.
Some situations are harder for kids than others. Before you put your child in a new environment, think about whether you believe they can handle it right now. If it is too difficult, set them up for success by breaking up the task beforehand. Then start with a mini-step instead. For example, instead of just dropping your child off at soccer practice, let them know you will stay and watch. For the next week, make a plan to stay for only half of practice and then build toward dropping off and leaving. Make sure to tell the truth — no sneaking off if they seem more comfortable than you expected!

4. Practice makes progress.
For some kids, it’s going to take more than one time to warm up to a new situation. Give your kids time and don’t give up on something just because the first time was a little rough. Most things take a couple tries to get good at. Think of a skill you’ve been working on for yourself and compare it to the first time you tried it. I’d imagine you’re better now than when you first started. Putting kids in a new environment is the same—the more they do it, the easier it will get. If they quit piano after just one lesson, they’re probably never going to learn that it gets easier with time. Set a specific number of practices or lessons in advance and stick to it so your child can learn what happens to their worries when they keep trying.

5. Praise goes a long way.
It feels great when someone tells you they notice your hard work, doesn’t it? Let your child know they are doing an awesome job just by trying something new. Say something like, “I’m so proud of you for going to a new school even though you were worried,” or “Awesome job walking to the bus stop by yourself. I know that was a hard one.” You can praise effort toward a goal, even if your child hasn’t fully gotten to the end goal yet.

6. Check yourself.
As caregivers, it can be tough to see a child worrying. Children are emotional sponges; they pick up on what the adults in their lives are feeling. Make a plan to manage your emotions so that you can help your child through a new situation. Remind yourself that your child is safe—you wouldn’t put them in a dangerous situation. We can’t protect children from their feelings because feelings are natural, but we can help them through their feelings by supporting, validating, and giving them confidence.

Mrs. G.  😃 ~Source Read Brightly

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TREE-mendous Traeger Students!

Every month each class recognizes a student who consistently follows the Traeger Way!  Congratulations to our April students who are also featured on the bulletin board in the cafeteria!

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End-of-Year Celebration

The countdown to the last day of school has begun! 

To celebrate and say goodbye for the summer, all Traeger students, staff and parents are invited to attend the end-of-year celebration and dance. This will be held on the playground from 1:30-2:30 pm on Friday, June 2.  Ed Eaton from Sound Sensations Entertainment will be our DJ and each student will receive a popsicle during the event.

At 2:30 pm all students must go back inside with their teachers for final wrap-up and goodbyes. Students will be dismissed at 2:45 pm.   

Volunteers are needed to help with this event. Please head to https://traeger.ptboard.com/ to see what volunteer opportunities are available and how you can help.

---

 

• What: 5th Grade Advancement/DARE Graduation
• Who: Parents and Family of 5th Grade Students
• When: Thursday, June 1 at 1:30 PM (Gallery Walk at 1:15)
• Where: Carl Traeger Elementary School Gym

We hope you can join us as we celebrate elementary school and bid our 5th graders farewell!

The fifth grade celebration is Thursday, June 1 at 1:30. Parents are invited to come watch their fifth graders be recognized for successful completion of the elementary years and the DARE curriculum!

This year students will be participating in one of many ways: greeting guests, saying the Pledge of Allegiance, singing the school song, sharing a favorite memory, presenting the class gift, or participating in a gallery walk of their favorite projects. Students are encouraged to dress nicely for this event.

Parents will have the opportunity to enjoy the gallery walk from 1:15 to 1:30 or immediately after the ceremony.  The gallery walk will be set up in the elementary school gym.   After the ceremony we will have a reception in the cafeteria with with cookies and lemonade.  Students and families can mingle and reminisce about all the great times we have had together.

Join us in the elementary school gym as we honor our fifth grade students and send them off to middle school!

---

 

Celebrate Our Local Author 

Our very own, Ms. Gill, will be at Caramel Crisp Corner on Sunday celebrating her newly published books!  We are so lucky to have a local author and illustrator in our Carl Traeger Family!  Be sure to attend and support all our local authors, especially Ms. Gill, on Sunday from 1-4pm!

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PSC Meeting: Thursday, May 11th, 2023 

PSC Mission Statement: The purpose of the Carl Traeger Elementary Parents and Staff for Children (PSC) organization is to serve in a voluntary, supportive and cooperative role bringing home, school and the community together; to make all children, parents and staff feel important, special, capable and a part of the community, to support Carl Traeger Elementary school by providing necessary resources for childrens’ educational benefit.

PSC Officers:

• President: Nichole Casper 
• Vice President: Megan Paulik
• Communication & Outreach: Kelly Zanders
• Co-Secretaries: Heather Swenson & Mandy Stein 
• Co-Treasurers: Nick Zanders & Jolene Halbach

1. Icebreaker

2. Bingo update

   1. Total profit - $3600

      1. 50/50 raffle - $464 profit (ran out of tickets)

      2. Pick of the Pack - $450 profit (need to precount tickets next year)

      3. Registration - 448 participants (Max was 450) - $896

   2. Ideas for next year: 

      1. Ice cream treats/dessert time

      2. Silent auction with items donated by staff that are free (baking with Branson, extra recess for class, etc.) - let the staff know by January

      3. Volunteer instruction sheet

      4. Participant instruction sheet in envelope and hang signs (include color of tickets and what they are for)

      5. Need basket for kids heads/tails winner

      6. Have ready-made form with the prize baskets to easily write the winners

      7. Use cellophane instead of saran wrap

3. Treasurer Update

   1. Private donations from Bingo

   2. Unused teacher appreciation donations need to be allocated for next year’s teacher appreciation; use for spa activity suggestion

   3. If work at a bank, look for company matches

   4. Proposed budget for 2023-2024 school year

      1. Special Budget Note: We had to take out a lot of the budget that we normally pay for. At our budget meeting we had to balance the budget.  Estimates were conservative. Our hope is to put things back in that we do help out with if we make more from our fundraisers next year. Ideas AND help for fundraisers are welcome! 

      2. Motion to Approve by Mandy Stein

      3. Second the Motion by Jenny Hunt 

4. Upcoming Event Volunteers Needed

   1. Golf Outing - May 21st (Kelly)

      1. Still looking for volunteers to run hole games

   2. End of Year Dance – June 2nd (Mandy)

      1. One volunteer spot open to monitor doors from 1:50-2:10

5. Upcoming Fundraisers 

   1. Golf Outing – May 21st

      1. Registration open until May 18th

      2. 17 teams registered so far

   2. 5th Grade Gift – stuffed animal day to support donation

      1. Purchasing Tree(s) to replace trees that were taken down

         1. Planting on May 25th in front of building

         2. Received through City of Oshkosh at a discount; they will come plant but 5th graders can help

      2. Fire Escape created thumbprint tree picture

      3. Plaque - added 4 years back 

   3. Book Fair 

      1. Next year’s dates 9/25-9/29

6. Volunteer opportunities for upcoming school year

   1. Kindergarten Playdate

      1. Thursday August 31st (First day is Friday Sept. 1st). 

      2. Parents and kids can play on the playground. Kelly Zanders will help. 

   2. Teacher Meals for Get to Know You (GTKY) Conferences

      1. August 24 and 29 4:00pm - 7:15pm each night. 

      2. Grab and go items they can eat quickly. 

   3. PSC Table at GTKYC – Shifts to hand out flyers/magnets. 

      1. We will add PSC meeting dates to the flyer: 

         1. 9/12, 10/10, 11/7, 1/9, 2/13, 3/ 5, 4/9, 5/14

      2. Need help in 30-60 minute shifts. 

7. Open Discussion

   1. Bowling date is not set in stone because Revs doesn’t set 2024 calendar until August

   2. Photo fundraiser

      1. Not offering with prior photographer but have a new photographer looking to donate time and doesn’t have timing conflict

      2. Kelly will look into dates

8. Next Meeting - Tuesday, September 12, 2023 in Library/Media Center (LMC)

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DONATIONS WANTED! - PLEASE HELP-WE DON'T HAVE ANY YET!

Each month our students have the opportunity to exchange their Pride Prints for a variety of incentives ranging from school supplies to books to time with staff.  After the last Pride Print Cart visit, we want to be able to provide motivation for students to continue to follow the Traeger Way.  We are looking for donations that can be used for drawings on the last day of school at the dance party.  Students can place their Pride Prints in the containers of the items they would love to win.  We are hoping parents can help out with donations.  Our theme is Summer Fun!  We can put smaller items together – all donations are appreciated!

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SCHOOL GARDEN

Hello Traeger Families!

Several years ago Growing Oshkosh, a non-profit urban farm, partnered with OASD to bring raised bed gardens to our schools.  While Growing Oshkosh is no longer in existence, we continue to plant and maintain our garden beds for our school community.  Again, this year, our Empower Academy class will be planting our beds.   We need help from our families to maintain the beds throughout the summer.

All families are welcome to enjoy and work with the school gardens throughout the spring, summer, and fall. The school gardens will require some watering and light weeding throughout the growing season. 

Families are encouraged to bring their children to the gardens throughout the summer to see how the plants are progressing and take home any produce that is ready. All the produce grown in the gardens is free and can be harvested by anyone at any time!

We invite families to sign up for one week over the summer months to water the gardens if needed. 

If you are interested, please click on this LINK and sign up for a week to water.

Note: A watering “key” is needed to turn on the outdoor watering spout.  The key will need to be passed from one family to another. Please include your contact info on the sign up document so you can plan how to hand off the key to the next person/family.

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• May 23
  • K-Kids 6:00pm in LMC
• May 24
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• May 26
  • Field Day
• May 29 
  • No School - Memorial Day
• May 31
  • Walk to School Wednesday
  • Third Grade to Bubolz
• June 1
  • Second Grade to Green Bay Botanical Gardens
  • 5th Grade Advancement/DARE Graduation 1:30pm
• June 2
  • Last Day of School!
  • Dance Party on the Playground 1:30pm

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

---

Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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TRAEGER TALESMay 11, 2023: Issue 34

 

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SMALL STEPS, BIG GOALS

How did Barack Obama become president? Why is Serena Williams such a good tennis player? We often look at the end of the story – the A+ or the star athlete – and think that success came without effort. Instead, success often takes great effort and planning. Parents and teachers build children’s goal setting and problem solving skills by talking about the little steps needed to reach large goals. Here’s how to do it.

Teach children how to think rather than what to think by asking questions and offering choices.

What We Know:

You can help your child move from “what do I want to be?” to “how can I be that?” by helping them identify simple steps that can lead to their long-term goal. Even young children are capable of thinking about the steps to solving a problem. As early as age 4, children can offer many solutions to a problem. And, by age 8, children can think of the steps needed to reach a goal and the problems they might have along the way.

Parents can teach children how to think rather than what to think by asking questions and offering choices. For very young children the questions are simple: “Would you like the door open or closed?” “Would you like one book or two books?” By elementary school, the questions can be more complicated: “What could you do differently?” “How did that make you feel?” “What can you try next?”

Try This:

Help your child set and achieve big personal goals by reading picture books that show how lots of little steps are needed to reach a goal. (The We Are Teachers website has a list of 12 books about reaching goals to check out from your library.) While you are reading, ask questions about how the character becomes successful like: “Was she always good at playing the violin?” “How did he become a better runner?” “What happened when she made a mistake?”

For Fun:

Watch Dr. Becky Bailey’s TedX Talk “Wiring the Brain for Success” for an entertaining look at the brain science behind how our mental state prepares us to reach goals.  (Source: UW Extension)

Mrs. G.  😃

---

 

DONATIONS WANTED!

Each month our students have the opportunity to exchange their Pride Prints for a variety of incentives ranging from school supplies to books to time with staff.  After the last Pride Print Cart visit, we want to be able to provide motivation for students to continue to follow the Traeger Way.  We are looking for donations that can be used for drawings on the last day of school at the dance party.  Students can place their Pride Prints in the containers of the items they would love to win.  We are hoping parents can help out with donations.  Our theme is Summer Fun!  We can put smaller items together – all donations are appreciated!

---

 

Hello Traeger Families!

Several years ago Growing Oshkosh, a non-profit urban farm, partnered with OASD to bring raised bed gardens to our schools.  While Growing Oshkosh is no longer in existence, we continue to plant and maintain our garden beds for our school community.  Again, this year, our Empower Academy class will be planting our beds.   We need help from our families to maintain the beds throughout the summer.

All families are welcome to enjoy and work with the school gardens throughout the spring, summer, and fall. The school gardens will require some watering and light weeding throughout the growing season. 

Families are encouraged to bring their children to the gardens throughout the summer to see how the plants are progressing and take home any produce that is ready. All the produce grown in the gardens is free and can be harvested by anyone at any time!

We invite families to sign up for one week over the summer months to water the gardens if needed. 

If you are interested, please click on this LINK and sign up for a week to water.

Note: A watering “key” is needed to turn on the outdoor watering spout.  The key will need to be passed from one family to another. Please include your contact info on the sign up document so you can plan how to hand off the key to the next person/family.

---

 

Fifth Grade Advancement and DARE Graduation

Thursday, June 1

1:30pm

Elementary Gym

 

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Golf Outing: Sunday, May 21st Our golf outing is back! Join us for the 3rd annual Carl Traeger Elementary PSC Golf Outing scheduled for Sunday, May 21st at Lake Breeze Golf Course in Winneconne. We invite all CTE families, staff, and friends to participate in this 18-hole foursome scramble. Registration is open with early bird pricing at $65 per person or $260 per foursome with breakfast, snacks, and lunch included. Plus, there will be hole events with fun prizes throughout the course. Learn more and signup today before the event sells out at:  https://traeger.ptboard.com/formvw?store=3016&form=9.

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• May 11
  • PSC 6:00pm in LMC
• May 16
  • Demeny/Aronson to Paine Art Center
• May 17
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• May 23
  • K-Kids 6:00pm in LMC
• May 24
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• May 26
  • Field Day
• May 29 
  • No School - Memorial Day
• May 31
  • Walk to School Wednesday
  • Third Grade to Bubolz
• June 1
  • Second Grade to Green Bay Botanical Gardens
  • 5th Grade Advancement/DARE Graduation 1:30pm
• June 2
  • Last Day of School!
  • Dance Party on the Playground 1:30pm

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

---

Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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TRAEGER TALESMay 5, 2023: Issue 33

 

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BIKE TO SCHOOL WEEK

 

Hey Traeger families!  In an effort to promote physical health and an active lifestyle, next week May 8-11, is Bike to School Week at Traeger.  All week long your kids will have a chance to earn tickets for prizes!  On Thursday we will give away prizes donated by Safe Routes to School and a bike donated by the PSC!  All kids have to do is get themselves to school by any means other than a motorized vehicle.  This could include walking, biking, scootering, or rip sticking.  It’s that easy!  Each day that they do this, they will earn a ticket to go into the prize drawings at the end of the week.  Wearing a helmet will earn them a ticket too!  We realize that these non-motorized means of transportation just aren’t realistic in some cases.  If this is the case, just send your child to school with a helmet to earn a ticket each day.

On Wednesday, May 10, we have some staff and local celebrities leading bike trains.  If your child would like to participate in this, check out the map.

Just to add to the excitement, we are going to be having some fun theme days next week:

We hope to see lots of bikes and helmets at school next week! ~Mrs. Wara &  Mrs. G.  😃

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DONATIONS WANTED!

Each month our students have the opportunity to exchange their Pride Prints for a variety of incentives ranging from school supplies to books to time with staff.  After the last Pride Print Cart visit, we want to be able to provide motivation for students to continue to follow the Traeger Way.  We are looking for donations that can be used for drawings on the last day of school at the dance party.  Students can place their Pride Prints in the containers of the items they would love to win.  We are hoping parents can help out with donations.  Our theme is Summer Fun!  We can put smaller items together – all donations are appreciated!

---

 

PSC Meeting: Thursday, May 11th, 2023 LINK to join virtually

PSC Mission Statement: The purpose of the Carl Traeger Elementary Parents and Staff for Children (PSC) organization is to serve in a voluntary, supportive and cooperative role bringing home, school and the community together; to make all children, parents and staff feel important, special, capable and a part of the community, to support Carl Traeger Elementary school by providing necessary resources for childrens’ educational benefit.

PSC Officers:

• President: Nichole Casper 
• Vice President: Megan Paulik
• Communication & Outreach: Kelly Zanders
• Co-Secretaries: Heather Swenson & Mandy Stein 
• Co-Treasurers: Nick Zanders & Jolene Halbach

 

6:00pm - 7:00pm  Monthly PSC Meeting 

1. Icebreaker

2. Bingo update

3. Treasurer Update

   1. Proposed budget for 2023-2024 school year

4. Upcoming Event Volunteers Needed

   1. Golf Outing - May 21st (Kelly)

   2. End of Year Dance – June 2nd (Mandy)

5. Upcoming Fundraisers 

   1. Golf Outing – May 21st

      1. Registration open until May 18th

   2. 5th Grade Gift – Gum/hat/stuffed animal day to support donation

      1. Purchasing Tree(s)

   3. Book Fair 

6. Volunteer opportunities for upcoming school year

   1. Kindergarten Playdate

   2. Teacher Meals for Get to Know You (GTKY) Conferences - August 24 and 29 4:00pm - 7:15pm each night

   3. PSC Table at GTKYC – Shifts to hand out flyers/magnets

7. Open Discussion

8. Next Meeting - September

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END OF YEAR HEALTH INFORMATION

Medications at school

All medications are to be picked up​ by parent/guardian on or before the last day of ​school – June 2, 2022​. Our policy will not allow us to keep them for the next school year.

If you know your student will need medication next school year, we are asking you to obtain an order from your doctor/nurse practitioner before the start of the next​ school year. You can pick up this Medication/ Treatment Request form from your school secretary before the end of this​ school year. A physician/nurse practitioner signature must accompany all medications/treatments.

If you have any questions, do not hesitate to call the Health office at 424-0065 Ext 1483.

The medication/treatment form, when completed by you and your doctor, can be given to the school secretary along with the properly labeled container of medication at the start of the next school year.

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Fifth Grade Advancement and DARE Graduation

Thursday, June 1

1:30pm

Elementary Gym

 

---

Golf Outing: Sunday, May 21st Our golf outing is back! Join us for the 3rd annual Carl Traeger Elementary PSC Golf Outing scheduled for Sunday, May 21st at Lake Breeze Golf Course in Winneconne. We invite all CTE families, staff, and friends to participate in this 18-hole foursome scramble. Registration is open with early bird pricing at $65 per person or $260 per foursome with breakfast, snacks, and lunch included. Plus, there will be hole events with fun prizes throughout the course. Learn more and signup today before the event sells out at:  https://traeger.ptboard.com/formvw?store=3016&form=9.

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• May 10
  • Bike to School Day
• May 11
  • PSC 6:00pm
• May 12
  • No School for Students
• May 16
  • Demeny/Aronson to Paine Art Center
• May 17
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• May 23
  • K-Kids 6:00pm in LMC
• May 24
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• May 26
  • Field Day
• May 29 
  • No School - Memorial Day
• May 31
  • Walk to School Wednesday
  • Third Grade to Bubolz
• June 1
  • Second Grade to Green Bay Botanical Gardens
  • 5th Grade Advancement/DARE Graduation 1:30pm
• June 2
  • Last Day of School!
  • Dance Party on the Playground 1:30pm

---

Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

---

Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

---

 

TRAEGER TALESApril 28, 2023: Issue 32

 

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NATIONAL STAFF APPRECIATION NEXT WEEK

Next week is Staff Appreciation Week!  It is a time to thank the men and women who dedicate their days to educating and supporting your children each day.   We are especially grateful for all the extra efforts of our staff during the pandemic!  If your child/family would like to write a personal message to a staff member follow this LINK or this LINK for a template.  Children can bring completed notes to school any time next week.

The Traeger Staff is a dedicated team, focused on helping students achieve their fullest potential while engaging them in the learning process.  As a staff we also recognize the important role that parents and families play in a child’s education.  Thank you for your involvement with your child.  The partnership between home and school is important and we appreciate you!

 Thank you for sharing your children with us each day! 

~Mrs. G. 😃

A good teacher is like a candle, it consumes itself to light the way for others."

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I Am A Teacher

By John Wayne "Jack" Schlatter (Adapted from his book I Am A Teacher)

I was born the first moment that a question leaped from the mouth of a child.

Throughout the course of a day I am called upon to be an actor, friend, nurse and doctor, coach, finder of lost articles, money lender, psychologist, substitute parent and a keeper of the faith.

I am the most fortunate of all who labor. I know that what I build with love and truth, will last forever. I am privileged to see that life is reborn each day with new questions, ideas and friendships.

And who do I have to thank for this wonderful life I am so fortunate to experience? You, the public and the parents who entrust to me their greatest contribution to eternity, their children.

I have wept for joy at the weddings of former students, laughed with glee at the birth of their children and stood with head bowed in grief and confusion by graves dug too soon for bodies far too young.

I have a past that is rich in memories, I have a present that is challenging, and fun, because I am allowed to spend my days with the future.

I Am A Teacher And I Am Thankful For It Every Day.

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Bike to School WeekCarl Traeger Elementary will be celebrating Bike to School Week May 8-12!  We have lots of great activities planned!  A Bike Month Calendar will be coming home.  Students can record the number of minutes they ride each day and turn the calendar in at the end of the month for a chance to win a bike related book.  On May 10 we would like to do a bike train.   We have some staff and celebrity riders that will be joining us.  Watch for more information about Bike to School Week next Friday in Traeger Tales!

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Fifth Grade Advancement and DARE Graduation

Thursday, June 1

1:30pm

Elementary Gym

 

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DONATIONS WANTED!

Each month our students have the opportunity to exchange their Pride Prints for a variety of incentives ranging from school supplies to books to time with staff.  After the last Pride Print Cart visit, we want to be able to provide motivation for students to continue to follow the Traeger Way.  We are looking for donations that can be used for drawings on the last day of school at the dance party.  Students can place their Pride Prints in the containers of the items they would love to win.  We are hoping parents can help out with donations.  Our theme is Summer Fun!  We can put smaller items together – all donations are appreciated!

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    It’s Tick Season!!  

I know, it’s not something to be excited about, but we can learn about ticks to make tick season more tolerable. The beautiful playground and woods surrounding our school are the exact type of area that ticks love to live in. So, what can our students do to prevent ticks from attaching to their skin? 

Students should watch for ticks on their clothes when entering the building in the morning and after any recess. If the tick is crawling on their skin or clothes they should remove the tick immediately and notify a teacher or recess supervisor. If a student finds a tick that is already attached to their skin they should come to the health office as soon as they notify their teacher. While we are unable to remove the attached tick at school, we will call and notify parents what we have found. Parents can then come to school and remove the tick or take the child home to remove the tick. Please remember that if you do remove an attached tick at home it is best to keep the tick in a clear baggie in case you later need to identify the type of tick. 

The CDC has great information on tick removal, bite prevention and when to contact a doctor after a tick bite. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me at elizabeth.lynch@oshkosh.k12.wi.us

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Date Change

Due to a schedule conflict the May PSC meeting will be held on May 11 at 6:00pm.

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Golf Outing: Sunday, May 21st Our golf outing is back! Join us for the 3rd annual Carl Traeger Elementary PSC Golf Outing scheduled for Sunday, May 21st at Lake Breeze Golf Course in Winneconne. We invite all CTE families, staff, and friends to participate in this 18-hole foursome scramble. Registration is open with early bird pricing at $65 per person or $260 per foursome with breakfast, snacks, and lunch included. Plus, there will be hole events with fun prizes throughout the course. Learn more and signup today before the event sells out at:  https://traeger.ptboard.com/formvw?store=3016&form=9.

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• April 28
  • Bingo Night!
• May 3
  • Walk to School Wednesday
  • Amel to Paine Art Center
• May 5
  • Kordus to Paine Art Center
• May 10
  • Bike to School Day
• May 11
  • PSC 6:00pm
• May 12
  • No School for Students
• May 16
  • Demeny/Aronson to Paine Art Center
• May 17
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• May 23
  • K-Kids 6:00pm in LMC
• May 24
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• May 26
  • Field Day
• May 29 
  • No School - Memorial Day
• May 31
  • Walk to School Wednesday
  • Third Grade to Bubolz
• June 1
  • Second Grade to Green Bay Botanical Gardens
  • 5th Grade Advancement/DARE Graduation 1:30pm
• June 2
  • Last Day of School!
  • Dance Party on the Playground 1:30pm

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

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Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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TRAEGER TALESApril 20, 2023: Issue 31

BINGO NIGHT!

Friday evening, April 28, the cries of “Bingo!” will echo through the school cafeterias as we gather for our annual Spring Bingo & Basket Raffle event! Join us for a fabulous evening of fun! Doors will open at 4:30 with concessions available and browsing of the popular classroom baskets, which will be given away at the end of the evening.  New this year is a special basket raffle called Pick of the Pack!  Here is how it works:

• 5 of the BEST baskets will be set aside for this special raffle opportunity
• Each ticket is $5. We will sell 100 tickets.
• People can buy as many tickets as they want.
• The winning ticket will be pulled at the start of BINGO. 
• The winner gets to pick one of the 5 baskets to keep and win before BINGO begins!
• The other 4 baskets will go back into the BINGO basket drawings for the end of the night winners.

Admission is $2 per person, and each child will receive 5 basket tickets as they enter. As we play BINGO from 5:30 to 7:00, the prizes will include additional basket tickets. At 7:00, we will stop playing BINGO and all tickets will be turned in for the basket drawings. The drawings will begin at about 7:10 and conclude around 7:30. There will also be adult raffle tickets on sale for $1 or 6 for $5. Back for another year! We will play "Heads or Tails" - free for the children, $1.00 for adults. We will also have tickets available for purchase for a 50/50 raffle and a chance to win one of our adult raffle baskets. Volunteer information can be found below. We need your help to make this wonderful event possible! Classroom theme basket information went home. Basket items are due back Monday, April 24.  Basket themes can be found at the LINK.  Join us for the fun! I look forward to seeing you at BINGO!  ~Mrs. G. 😃

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Date Change

Due to a schedule conflict the May PSC meeting will be held on May 11 at 6:00pm.

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SAVE THE DATE!!!

This year is going to be our best field day yet!! Field day is set for Friday, May 26. There will be opportunities to volunteer in the morning (with set up) or in the afternoon to help run stations. Volunteer sign up will come out in May!!

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From the Health Office

If your child has a current health plan or emergency plan on file with school, you will receive a copy during the summer to update for the upcoming school year.

If your child has a change in their health or has a healthcare need at school, please contact our school district nurse, Liz Lynch,  via email during the summer and she will contact you at the beginning of the school year to discuss. elizabeth.lynch@oshkosh.k12.wi.us

If your child will need to take medication at school, please work with your doctor to have the following form completed and signed before the start of the school year.  As a reminder, the directions on the medication bottle must match the written order on the medication request form.

Medication Treatment/Request Form

If you have a child with a severe allergy and/or asthma, or seizures the following forms will need to be completed for our school nurse. Inhalers, Epi-Pens, Allergy medications, etc., must be in their original containers.  Expiration dates will be monitored.

Allergy & Anaphylaxis Emergency Plan

Asthma Action Plan for Home and School

Seizure Action Plan

Continue to stay healthy and enjoy your summer. 

Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns.

Liz Lynch, BSN, RN, NCSN

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UPCOMING PSC EVENTS!

Bingo Night: Friday, April 28th One of our biggest events of the year is on the books: Bingo Night on Friday, April 28th! This is one of our most popular events and always sells out, so if you haven’t already, be sure to get your Bingo cards and pizza at https://traeger.ptboard.com/formvw?store=3016&form=10 today! We’re also looking for volunteers as this event in particular takes so many wonderful people to make this happen. To help with this fun evening, grab a friend and signup at https://traeger.ptboard.com/sgnvw?signup=jW9Q47QzTcShlWq00YYZkXN___5-C8el-3___nnSIg7t.

Golf Outing: Sunday, May 21st Our golf outing is back! Join us for the 3rd annual Carl Traeger Elementary PSC Golf Outing scheduled for Sunday, May 21st at Lake Breeze Golf Course in Winneconne. We invite all CTE families, staff, and friends to participate in this 18-hole foursome scramble. Registration is open with early bird pricing at $65 per person or $260 per foursome with breakfast, snacks, and lunch included. Plus, there will be hole events with fun prizes throughout the course. Learn more and signup today before the event sells out at:  https://traeger.ptboard.com/formvw?store=3016&form=9.

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• April 26
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• April 27
  • Kindergarten to Heckrodt
• April 28
  • Bingo Night!
• May 3
  • Walk to School Wedneday
  • Amel to Paine Art Center
• May 5
  • Kordus to Paine Art Center
• May 10
  • Bike to School Day
• May 11
  • PSC 6:00pm
• May 12
  • No School for Students
• May 16
  • Demeny Aronson to Paine Art Center
• May 17
  • Walk to School Wednesday

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

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Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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TRAEGER TALESApril 14, 2023: Issue 30

severe weather awareness week

Next week is Tornado and Severe Weather Awareness Week in the state of Wisconsin.  On April 20 we will practice a tornado watch followed by a drill as part of the state-wide observance. In this situation, students are asked to move to their safe area and take the safety “tuck” position.

 

Did you know...

• Wisconsin averages 23 tornadoes annually? Last year Wisconsin had 28 confirmed tornadoes, but the state has had as many as 62 in one year!

• Peak tornado season in Wisconsin is April to August but can occur any time. Kenosha had tornadoes as part of the January 7, 2008 storms.

• Tornadoes are most frequent between 4 PM and 9 PM.

• About 80% of tornadoes that hit Wisconsin are relatively weak, with winds under 110 mph. Only 1% are violent with winds over 170 mph.

~Source: Wisconsin Department of Emergency Management

Our school tornado drill is a great reminder to families to be sure everyone knows the safest place at home to go in the event of a tornado. Wishing you a safe spring!  ~Mrs. G. 😃

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Join K-Kids for The Fox-Wolf Watershed Cleanup

The Fox-Wolf Watershed Cleanup is an event where more than a thousand volunteers pick one of 65+ sites to remove garbage and debris in and around the water.

The Cleanup provides plastic gloves so participants do not have to handle the trash. Gardening gloves can be helpful too.  You will also receive garbage bags.

        This program is a lot of fun because you get to explore and hunt for trash near rivers and in woodland areas. It is a great community service activity to do with young children because it is easy and fun.

        K-Kids recommends the Fox-Wolf Watershed Cleanup as a way to help the environment by picking up trash.

Fox-Wolf Watershed Cleanup takes place May 6th from 9:00 am to 11:30 am, to register Fox-Wolf Registration: https://fwwa.org/events-calendar-fwwa/watershed-cleanup/  

Join Carl Traeger Elementary K-Kids team. Some families registered for Oshkosh - Rainbow Park & Butte des Morts River Trail, please register for any site you are feeling connected to.

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Flags for First Graders

Recently our first grade classes had some special guests from Voiture 751-40 & 8. The program includes a magic show that has the first graders putting red and white ribbons, 50 stars, and some thread into a magic container.

With the help of some magic dust and the kids providing the magic word “abracadabra” at the top of their lungs, a flag is magically formed. With the newly formed flag in place the students recite the Pledge Of Allegiance. The program also includes a little flag history, flag etiquette, the proper flag folding procedure, and a short question and answer period. The program concludes with the students receiving their own small flag on a wood base. The wood bases for the flags are made using wood donated by local businesses and are manufactured by local high school industrial arts classes.

This year’s schedule will visit every public and parochial school in Winnebago County and provide flags to over 2000 first graders. The 40 & 8 is an independent veteran's organization of men and women U.S. Veterans. The name originates from World War I when troops were transported to the front lines in French boxcars called voitures. On the side of each boxcar was stamped the numbers 40/8, meaning the boxcar could hold either forty men or eight horses. Thank you members of the 40 & 8 for your generosity!

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Unnecessary vehicle idling is a contributor to air pollution and increased health risk in our community.
One of the areas where unnecessary idling occurs the most is at our school when children are being
dropped off or picked up. High concentrations of idling vehicles greatly increase the presence of toxic
chemicals such as; nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds. By turning our
engines off in school zones, we can drastically decrease the amount of toxic chemicals that we release
near our children. Join us in creating a healthier environment for our children.

Facts about vehicle idling:
1. Children take in more air than adults per pound of body weight, therefore children near idling
take in more harmful emissions than adults.
2. Athletes take in even more air during practices and games.
3. Idling prolongs the cold start period for an engine, leading to increased amounts of emissions.
4. Stopping an engine for a short time ( from several seconds to a few minutes) reduces the fuel
consumption of gasoline vehicles, while idling vehicles continued to consume fuel during the
idling process.
5. The higher the concentration of idling cars, the higher the concentration of
pollutants/ particulates entering the air.
6. Emissions have shown an increased effect of asthma symptoms in 7- 8% of the population,
especially for young children ( American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine,
2005)

What you can do:
1. Reduce your idling in school zones and near children' s sporting events.
2. Talk with other parents about idling. Pass along the message to stop vehicle idling in school
zones.
3. Consider carpooling to reduce emissions.
4. Reduce your idling during other times of non-moving traffic (trains, open bridges, etc.)

Please join us as we seek to reduce the level of idling in the City of Oshkosh, and, in particular, at our
Oshkosh Area Schools. Thank you for taking steps to provide your child with a healthier school
environment.

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With the advent of warmer weather we have noticed kids arriving earlier to school.  Our staff work day begins at 7:30am so kids should not be arriving before that time.  Thank you for your help in ensuring that kids are safe and supervised!

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UPCOMING PSC EVENTS!

Bingo Night: Friday, April 28th One of our biggest events of the year is on the books: Bingo Night on Friday, April 28th! This is one of our most popular events and always sells out, so if you haven’t already, be sure to get your Bingo cards and pizza at https://traeger.ptboard.com/formvw?store=3016&form=10 today! We’re also looking for volunteers as this event in particular takes so many wonderful people to make this happen. To help with this fun evening, grab a friend and signup at https://traeger.ptboard.com/sgnvw?signup=jW9Q47QzTcShlWq00YYZkXN___5-C8el-3___nnSIg7t.

Golf Outing: Sunday, May 21st Our golf outing is back! Join us for the 3rd annual Carl Traeger Elementary PSC Golf Outing scheduled for Sunday, May 21st at Lake Breeze Golf Course in Winneconne. We invite all CTE families, staff, and friends to participate in this 18-hole foursome scramble. Registration is open with early bird pricing at $65 per person or $260 per foursome with breakfast, snacks, and lunch included. Plus, there will be hole events with fun prizes throughout the course. Learn more and signup today before the event sells out at:  https://traeger.ptboard.com/formvw?store=3016&form=9.

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PSC Meeting Minutes: Tuesday, April 11th, 2023 

PSC Mission Statement: The purpose of the Carl Traeger Elementary Parents and Staff for Children (PSC) organization is to serve in a voluntary, supportive and cooperative role bringing home, school and the community together; to make all children, parents and staff feel important, special, capable and a part of the community, to support Carl Traeger Elementary school by providing necessary resources for childrens’ educational benefit.

PSC Officers:

• President: Nichole Casper 
• Vice President: Megan Paulik
• Co-Secretaries: Heather Swenson & Mandy Stein 
• Treasurer: Nick Zander & Jolene H
• Communication & Outreach: Kelly Zanders

5:00-6:00 PM  BINGO & CRAFT FAIR Committee Meeting

1. BINGO update – Megan

   1. Pizza

   2. Registration

      1. Utilizing middle and elementary doors – split by alphabet

      2. Need to two tables

   3. Concessions

      1. Costco/Sam’s – water, soda, Gatorade, candy

      2. Candy bars from Vande Walls (opportunity for additional fundraising)

   4. Prize Patrol –  prizes and tickets – 

   5. Adult raffle

      1. Need change

      2. Include sponsor acknowledgements on baskets

      3. Megan-building reservation to secure location/tables

      4. Need to track number of tickets sold

      5. Classroom baskets – Mary needs helpers next week M/T/W from 8-10:30 – come to cafeteria

2. CRAFT FAIR – Nichole 

3. Golf

6:00-7:00 PM  Monthly PSC Meeting 

1. Ice Breaker

2. Vote on VP, Communication Outreach & Treasurers

   1. VP nomination-Megan P

      1. Kelly Z motion; Nick Z second

   2. Communication Outreach-Kelly Zanders 

      1. Karisa motion; Jenny H second

   3. Treasurers-Nick Zanders & Jolene H

      1. Megan motion; Kenlin second

3. Upcoming Volunteer or Donation Opportunities

   1. Teacher Appreciation Week – Nichole

      1.  Plan for the week - Sign up on PTBoard to help out on one of these days:

         1. Donuts/coffee 

         2. Snacks 

         3. Gift Cards (89 $5 gift cards)

         4. Kitkats - PURCHASED

   2. End of Year Dance – Mandy

      1. DJ booked

      2. Volunteers will be needed to hand out popsicles and watch doors

      3. Keep dance time 1:30-2:30

   3. Bike to School week – Nichole

      1. Bike to school day is May 10th; dress up days all week

      2. Tickets for bike to school and wearing helmets 

      3. Bikes, locks, & helmet donations - If any parents have connections or would like to donate, please reach out to the PSC. 

   4. Field Day – Nichole/Heidi

      1. Sponsors for bounce houses and t-shirts

      2. 20x20 tent 

      3. Verve will have music cube and handing out & providing popsicles

4. Fundraisers Update:

   1. Eatons - $280 (look into locking in 2x for next year)

   2. Herd - $162 + &18.72 for apparel 

5. Treasurer update 

6. Upcoming Fund 

   1. BINGO – April 28th

      1. Volunteers needed: prize patrol, admissions, adult raffles, concessions

      2. Change this year - baskets were purchased for teachers to put donations in.

      3. Live auction for “pick of the night baskets/pick of the pack” - sell 100 $5 tickets for one of the classroom baskets

      4. Looking for donations of trinkets/goodies leftover from birthday parties, etc.

      5. 139 people signed up so far; paper forms went out to teachers today so will be coming in this week - Forms due 4/20

      6. Need 7 more adult raffle baskets

   2. Golf outing – May 21st – registration is open 

      1. Early bird pricing closes May 1st

      2. Need hole sponsors, raffle donations or goodie items

   3. 5th grade gift 

      1. Gum/hat day to support donation 

         1. $200 set aside could be used to make plaque that shows what each class donates every year

      2. Ideas for this year

         1. New Mascot Costume

         2. Plant a Tree and put a plaque 

7. VOLUNTEER opportunities for upcoming school year:

   1. Kindergarten Playdate

      1. Looking for outgoing kindergarten parent (hosted before the first day of school) - bring snacks

   2. Teacher meals for Get to Know You (GTKY) Conferences – scheduled for August 

   3. PSC Table at Open House – shifts to hand out flyers/magnets

8. Summer events - Need dates by next meeting

   1. Ice cream party– June  

      1. Consider Dairy Queen, Ardy & Ed’s or Leon’s

   2. Pool night @ Pollock Pool – July 

   3. Bowling @ Rev’s – August 

9. Additional comments 

   1. Yoga for teachers and raffle chair massages for teachers

   2. Budget meeting later this month to plan for next year

10. Tina motion to adjourn; Jenny second

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• April 18
  • K-Kids in LMC 6:00
• April 19
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• April 20
  • Earth Day Theme Day-Wear Green and Blue
• April 21
  • No School for Students
• April 26
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• April 27
  • Kindergarten to Heckrodt
• April 28
  • Bingo Night!
• May 3
  • Walk to School Wedneday
  • Amel to Paine Art Center
• May 5
  • Kordus to Paine Art Center

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

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Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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TRAEGER TALESApril 6, 2023: Issue 29

 

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How To Teach Your Kids To Care About Other People-Empathy is a skill parents can cultivate.

As deep-seated divisions, vitriol and disturbing news fill headlines, many people are wondering what happened to the qualities of empathy and kindness in our society.

In the same vein, many parents are wondering how to raise kids who will be a force for love and goodness in the face of bitterness and hate.

Huffington Post spoke to psychologists, parents and other experts about how to instill empathy in children.

Talk About Feelings

“The gateway to empathy is emotional literacy,” said Michele Borba, an educational psychologist and the author of numerous parenting books, including UnSelfie: Why Empathetic Kids Succeed in Our All-About-Me World.

A simple way to foster emotional literacy is by promoting face-to-face communication in the age of texting and smartphones. “Digital-driven kids aren’t necessarily learning emotions when they pick emojis,” Borba said. “Make it a rule in your house to always look at the color of the talker’s eyes because it will help your child tune in to the other person.”

Another key aspect is teaching kids to identify their own emotions early on. “Use emotional language with kids. Say things like, ‘I see you’re really frustrated,’ or, ‘I see you’re really mad,’” Laura Dell, an assistant professor at the University of Cincinnati’s School of Education, told HuffPost.

“Before children can identify and empathize with other people’s feelings, they need to understand how to process their own feelings,” she continued. “Once they can identify their own emotion, they’re better able to develop those self-regulation skills to control their own emotions ― and then take the next step to understand the emotions of others.”

Ravi Rao, a pediatric neurosurgeon turned children’s show host, believes parents should teach feelings as much as they teach things like colors and numbers.

“You’ll see parents walking through the park and taking every opportunity to ask, ‘What color is that man’s jacket?’ ‘What color is the bus?’ ‘How many trees are there?’” he explained. “You can also practice emotion by saying things like, ‘Do you see the woman over there? Does she look happy or does she look sad?’”

Rao also recommends playing a “guess what I’m feeling” game at home by making happy or sad faces and asking your children to identify the emotion. “You just get their brains in the habit of noticing the signals on other people’s faces.”

Once kids have a better sense of emotions and how things make them feel, you can ask them about the emotional perspectives of others. “You can ask things like, ‘How do you think it made Tommy feel when you took his toy?’ or, ‘That made Mommy really sad when you hit me,’” said Borba.

Use Media To Your Advantage

Watching TV or reading books together presents another great opportunity to cultivate empathy, according to Madeleine Sherak, a former educator and the author of Superheroes Club, a children’s book about the value of kindness.

“Discuss instances when characters are being kind and empathetic, and similarly, discuss instances when characters are being hurtful and mean,” she suggested. “Discuss how the characters are probably feeling and possible scenarios of how the situations may have been handled differently so as to ensure that all characters are treated kindly.”

Borba recommends engaging in emotionally charged films and literature like The Wednesday Surprise, Charlotte’s Web, Harry Potter and To Kill a Mockingbird.

Set An Example

Parents need to walk the walk and model empathy themselves, noted Rao.

“Kids will pick up on more things than just what you say. You can say, ‘Pay attention to other people’s feelings,’ but if the child doesn’t perceive or witness you paying attention to people’s feelings, it doesn’t necessarily work,” he explained.

Rao emphasized the importance of parents using language to convey their own emotional states by saying things like, “Today, I’m really frustrated,” or, “Today, I’m really disappointed.” They can practice empathy when role-playing with dolls or action figures or other games with kids as well.

It’s also necessary for parents to recognize and respect their children’s emotions, according to Dell.

“For kids to show empathy to us and others, we need to show empathy to them,” she explained. “Of course it’s tough as a parent trying to get multiple kids to put on their clothes and shoes and get out the door to go to school in the morning. But sometimes it makes a difference to take that pause and say, ‘I see it’s making you really sad that we can’t finish watching ‘Curious George’ this morning, but if we finished it, we wouldn’t be able to make it to school on time, and it’s really important to get to school on time.’”

“It doesn’t mean you have to give in to their wants all the time, but to recognize you understand how they feel in a situation,” she added.

Acknowledge Children’s Acts Of Kindness

“Parents are always praising children for what grades they got or how they did on a test. You can also boost their empathy by letting them know it matters to develop a caring mindset,” said Borba, noting that when children do things that are kind and caring, parents can stop for a moment to acknowledge that.

“Say, ‘Oh, that was so kind when you stopped to help that little boy. Did you see how happy it made him?’” explained Borba. “So your child realizes that caring matters, because you’re talking about it. They then begin to see themselves as caring people and their behavior will match it.”

Expose Them To Differences

“Parents have to help their children grow up and thrive in a diverse society through education about and exposure to others who are different, whether culturally, ethnically, religiously, in physical appearance and ability or disability,” Sherak said.

There are many ways to expose your children to the diversity of the world ― like reading books, watching certain movies and TV shows, eating at restaurants with different cuisines, visiting museums, volunteering in your community, and attending events hosted by various religious or ethnic groups.

“It is also important to follow up such visits and activities with open discussions and additional questions and concerns, if any,” said Sherak. “It is also valuable to discuss differences in the context of our children’s own environments and experiences in the family, at school, in their neighborhoods, and in the larger community.”

Parents can urge local schools to promote cross-cultural awareness in their curricula as well, said Rao.

“We also just have to eliminate jokes about race and culture from our homes,” he added. “Maybe back in the day making jokes about race like Archie Bunker seemed acceptable and part of what the family did when they got together on holidays. But that actually undermines empathy if the first thought a child learns about a race or group of people is something derogatory learned from humor. It can be very hard to then overcome that with other positive messages.”

Own Up To Your Mistakes

“If you make a mistake and behave rudely toward someone who messes up at a store checkout, for example, I think you should acknowledge that mistake to kids,” said Dell. After the bad moment, parents can say something like, “Wow I bet she had a lot on her hands. There were a lot of people at the store right then. I should’ve been a little kinder.”

Acknowledging and talking about your own lapses in empathy when your kids are there to witness them makes an impression. “Your child is right there watching, seeing everything,” Dell explained. “Own up to moments you could’ve made better choices to be kinder to the people around you.”

Make Kindness A Family Activity

Families can prioritize kindness with small routines like taking time at dinner every night to ask everyone to share two kind things they did, or writing down simple ways to be caring that they can all discuss together, said Borba. Playing board games is another way to learn to get along with everybody.

Borba also recommended volunteering together as a family or finding ways that your children enjoy giving back.

“If your kid is a sports guru, then helping him do arts and crafts with a less privileged kid might not be the best match, but you can find other opportunities for face-to-face giving that match their interests,” she explained. “Help them realize the life of giving is better than the life of getting.”

Families might also consider writing down their own mission statements, suggested Thomas Lickona, a developmental psychologist and author of How to Raise Kind Kids: And Get Respect, Gratitude, and a Happier Family in the Bargain.

“[It’s] a set of ‘we’ statements that express the values and virtues you commit to live by ― for example, ‘We show kindness through kind words and kind actions’; ‘We say we’re sorry when we’ve hurt someone’s feelings’; ‘We forgive and make up when we’ve had a fight,’” he explained.

Lickona also recommended holding everyone accountable to the family values at weekly family meetings centered around questions like, “How did we use kind words this week?” and, “What would help us not say unkind things even if we’re upset with somebody?”

“When kids slip into speaking unkindly ― as nearly all sometimes will ― gently ask for a ‘redo,’” he said. “‘What would be a kinder way to say that to your sister?’ Make it clear that you’re asking for a redo not to embarrass them, but to give them a chance to show that they know better. Then thank them for doing so.”

Another piece of advice from Lickona: Just look around.

“Even in today’s abrasive, angry, and often violent culture, there are acts of kindness all around us. We should point these out to our children,” he said. “We should explain how kind words and kind deeds, however small ― holding the door for someone, or saying ‘thank you’ to a person who does us a service ― make a big impact on the quality of our shared lives.”  ~Mrs. G. 😃

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TREE-mendous Traeger Students!

Every month each class recognizes a student who consistently follows the Traeger Way!  Congratulations to our March students who are also featured on the bulletin board in the cafeteria!

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• Consistent, predictable routines for learning every day can create a sense of safety and are essential to attendance, engagement and achievement.  ~Attendance Works   

• Showing up matters for R.E.A.L. It is an opportunity to:

  • Build Routines

  • Increase Engagement

  • Provide Access to resources

  • Support Learning   

• Is Your Child Missing School Due to Anxiety?

  • Follow the LINK for more information to support your child.

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UPCOMING PSC EVENTS!

Bingo Night: Friday, April 28th One of our biggest events of the year is on the books: Bingo Night on Friday, April 28th! This is one of our most popular events and always sells out, so if you haven’t already, be sure to get your Bingo cards and pizza at https://traeger.ptboard.com/formvw?store=3016&form=10 today! We’re also looking for volunteers as this event in particular takes so many wonderful people to make this happen. To help with this fun evening, grab a friend and signup at https://traeger.ptboard.com/sgnvw?signup=jW9Q47QzTcShlWq00YYZkXN___5-C8el-3___nnSIg7t.

Golf Outing: Sunday, May 21st Our golf outing is back! Join us for the 3rd annual Carl Traeger Elementary PSC Golf Outing scheduled for Sunday, May 21st at Lake Breeze Golf Course in Winneconne. We invite all CTE families, staff, and friends to participate in this 18-hole foursome scramble. Registration is open with early bird pricing at $65 per person or $260 per foursome with breakfast, snacks, and lunch included. Plus, there will be hole events with fun prizes throughout the course. Learn more and signup today before the event sells out at:  https://traeger.ptboard.com/formvw?store=3016&form=9.

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PSC Meeting: Tuesday, April 11th, 2023 

PSC Mission Statement: The purpose of the Carl Traeger Elementary Parents and Staff for Children (PSC) organization is to serve in a voluntary, supportive and cooperative role bringing home, school and the community together; to make all children, parents and staff feel important, special, capable and a part of the community, to support Carl Traeger Elementary school by providing necessary resources for childrens’ educational benefit.

 

PSC Officers:

• President: Nichole Casper 
• Vice President: Megan Paulik
• Co-Secretaries: Heather Swenson & Mandy Stein 
• Treasurer: Nick Zander & Jolene H
• Communication & Outreach: Kelly Zanders

 

5:00-6:00 PM  BINGO, GOLF & CRAFT FAIR Committee Meeting

1. BINGO update – Megan

   1. Pizza

   2. Registration

      1. Utilizing middle and elementary doors – split by alphabet

      2. Need to two tables

   3. Concessions

      1. Costco/Sam’s – water, soda, Gatorade, candy

      2. Candy bars from Vande Walls (opportunity for additional fundraising)

   4. Prize Patrol –  prizes and tickets – 

   5. Adult raffle

      1. Need change

      2. Include sponsor acknowledgements on baskets

      3. Megan-building reservation to secure location/tables

      4. Need to track number of tickets sold

      5. Classroom baskets 

2. CRAFT FAIR – Nichole 

 

6:00-7:00 PM  Monthly PSC Meeting LINK to join virtually

1. Ice Breaker

2. Vote on VP, Communication Outreach & Treasurers

   1. VP nomination-Megan P

   2. Communication Outreach-Kelly Zanders 

   3. Treasurers-Nick Zanders & Jolene H

3. Upcoming Volunteer or Donation Opportunities

   1. Teacher Appreciation Week – Nichole

      1.  Plan for the week

         1. Donuts/coffee 

         2. Snacks 

         3. Gift Cards (89 $5 gift cards)

         4. Kitkats

   2. End of Year Dance – Mandy

   3. Bike to School week – Nichole

      1. May

      2. Tickets for bike to school and wearing helmets 

      3. Bike & helmet donation 

   4. Field Day – Nichole/Heidi

      1. Sponsors for bounce houses and t-shirts

      2. 20x20 tent 

      3. Verve will have music cube and handing out & providing popsicles

4. Fundraisers Update:

   1. Eatons

   2. Herd

5. Treasurer update 

   1. Proposed Budget

6. Upcoming Fund 

   1. BINGO – April 28th

   2. Golf outing – May 21st – registration is open 

   3. 5th grade gift – gum/hat day to support donation 

7. VOLUNTEER opportunities for upcoming school year:

   1. BooHoo Wahoo Kindergarten Breakfast – looking for outgoing kindergarten parent (hosted the morning of the first day of school) 

   2. Teacher meals for Get to Know You (GTKY) Conferences – scheduled for August 

   3. PSC Table at Open House – shifts to hand out flyers/magnets

 

8. Summer events

   1. Ice cream party @ Rhapsodies – June  

   2. Pool night @ Pollock Pool – July 

   3. Bowling @ Rev’s – August 

 

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Wisconsin Forward Exam testing is in process!  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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Please congratulate the following students for having art in the annual ART FEST at the Oshkosh Public Library, to celebrate Youth Art Month in April! All art in the show was made by our local elementary students. It is an exhibition of works by Oshkosh Public School children in grades Kindergarten through grade 5. It is open for viewing in the Lower Level during regular library hours. 

April 7-April 26th

Reception is April 16th from 2:00-5:00

We hope to see you there! 

• Lucy Abalan 4
• Jack Anderson 5
• Braxton Bednarek 1
• Ryleigh Bohn 4
• Luca Bolanos 2
• Garrett Casey 2
• Olivia Fletcher 1
• DJ Janke 5
• Brynlee Kernen Kindergarten
• Jocelyn Lawsing 5
• Sophia Morales 1
• Adelle Neubauer 5
• Mitchell Oestreich 4
• Maggie Recker 5
• Keaton O'Rourke 2
• Hailey Peck 4
• Morgan Sparr 5
• Michaela Vang 3
• Calvin Wara 2
• Sully Webb 1
• Olivia Weigandt 5

 

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• April 11
  • PSC in LMC 6:00pm
• April 12
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• April 18
  • K-Kids in LMC 6:00
• April 19
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• April 21
  • No School for Students
• April 26
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• April 27
  • Kindergarten to Heckrodt
• April 28
  • Bingo Night!

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

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Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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TRAEGER TALESMarch 31, 2023: Issue 28

How Hard Should You Push Your Child to Try New Things?

One of the many challenges of being a parent is knowing how hard to push your child into something new — or to stick with something they’re thinking of giving up on — and when to back off. I’m a mom of two and I often feel myself bouncing between being pushy and relaxed. Like: No, you don’t have to play sports if you don’t think it’s your thing. Sure, you can skip that camp you’re nervous about. But also, you need to be brave when things feel frightening and learn to seize new opportunities even when you feel unsure. And on it goes.

Of course, knowing when you’re pushing too hard, or not pushing enough, is an art, not a science, and a very specific one at that. No one can ever really say where that sweet spot is, and parents and kids might never see eye to eye. (Twenty years later, my own mom still sometimes laments that I gave up the trumpet, an instrument I was truly terrible at, in high school.)

Are you trying to figure out when to push your child to try something new, or empowering them to quit something they say they’re not into? Here’s some guidance to have in mind.

“Ask yourself: Am I doing this for me or for them?”

Again, no one can tell you whether you’re doing the right thing by pushing your child to try something that they’re not particularly excited about. But a quick gut check can help.

“Get clear about why you’re asking your child to do something new,” said Robbin McManne, founder of Parenting for Connection.

Ask yourself: Are they doing this for me? Or am I doing this for them?

As parents, we sometimes push kids into things that have more to do with ourselves for any number of reasons. We may be comparing them and ourselves to other kids and families, and are feeling worried about falling behind. Or maybe we were pushed into certain things when we were a child. Maybe we’re holding on to the idea that kids “should” do certain things, but we’re not even really clear where that idea comes from.

On the other hand, you might be pushing your kiddo because you really think this is an important experience, whatever it is, and one that will really help them in the long run. And there are benefits to pushing kids beyond their comfort zone — for the right reasons.

“We know that being able to tolerate discomfort is a wonderful life trait, and in addition to that, it makes [kids] grittier and more resilient,” said Dr. Harold S. Koplewicz, a child and adolescent psychiatrist and the founding president of the Child Mind Institute, in a blog post on the group’s website.

So really ask yourself: “Are you meeting them where they’re at, or where you think they should be?” McManne said.

Get curious

In order to determine how hard you should push your child, it is essential to have a good understanding of why they’re resisting or putting up boundaries.

“Curiosity is everything,” McManne said. “Ask them why? How come?”

That might sound obvious, but when we’re busy parenting — and feeling frustrated that our kids aren’t just going along with our plans — it’s easy to stop taking that time to get to the root of children’s hesitancy. Maybe there’s a problem you can solve together. Or maybe your child is really showing you a personal boundary that you should respect.

“Ask yourself: Are they doing this for me? Or am I doing this for them?”

Helping children develop emotional intelligence, or EQ, from a young age can help with this process, because it helps them name what they’re feeling.

Sometimes when you probe why your child isn’t interested in something you think they should be, you might uncover a bigger underlying issue that you can help with.

“Sometimes when pushing kids you bump into a real limitation. It can be an anxiety disorder, or a learning disability,” Koplewicz explained on the CMI website. It’s not that they don’t want to do it; it’s that it’s genuinely too hard without additional and specific support.

Ease them in

When your child is really reluctant to try something new, it is important to be respectful of that, McManne said, and go slow. Just like you’d probably like someone to take their time and be gentle with you if you were learning a new skill or, say, starting a new job and trying to learn the ropes.

“You offer compromises,” she said. So say you have a toddler who is really reluctant to go into the pool at swim lessons. Model confidence, McManne said, and take it slow. Maybe they just put their feet in at first. Maybe you sit at the edge of the pool with them. Again, your goal is to meet them where they are — then nudge them forward.

McManne said she often talks to clients about an idea from the book “The Yes Brain: How to Cultivate Courage, Curiosity and Resilience in Your Child,” which talks about how parents have to provide some “pushin’” while also acting as the “cushion.”

Encourage your child to try new things and work through discomfort, as that is a skill that will help them develop resilience and serve them well in life. But respect their boundaries and be empathetic.

“You need to be that soft place for your child to land,” McManne said. (Source: Huffington Post)

~Mrs G. 😃   

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Come one, come all, you are welcome here! 

Carl Traeger Elementary School is proud to present its 4th annual diversity celebration on Wednesday, April 12th from 12:30-2:30 pm!

Students will visit displays featuring different countries, cultures, communities, and abilities in our cafeteria. 

We would like to invite you to join in our celebration and share a display representing a country, culture, community, or ability that you have a connection to! Displays may include information, flags, pictures, objects, clothing, music, or language. We are unable to include food in our presentations. Each display must fit at one table in the cafeteria.

Please contact Kaelee Heideman, School Counselor, at kaelee.heideman@oshkosh.k12.wi.us or 920-424-0221 if you have questions or interest in presenting!! 

If you are interested in presenting a display to our students, please fill out this form and return it to the school office by Friday, April 7th. You can fill out a digital copy here.

Name/s of Presenter/s: _______________________________________

Child’s Name: ______________________________________________

Will your child present with you? Yes___ No___

Country/Culture/Community/Ability Presenting: _____________________

What do you plan to present? (Information, flags, pictures, objects, clothing, music, language, etc.)  *Please note that presenters are responsible for bringing their own equipment. Displays cannot include food*

__________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________

Will you need access to a power outlet for anything?  Yes ____  No ____

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Traeger “Forgiveness” Family Book Club

It’s time to sign up for our next book club! This month’s theme is “forgiveness”. Mrs. Runde has chosen a picture book and a chapter book that allows you to explore the topic of forgiveness through these fictional stories. The picture book is intended for students at any grade level and the chapter book is intended for students in grades 4 and up. Both books are intended to be read as a family to ensure opportunities to have conversations about big topics and learn more about others through stories. Resources are created to support you with your family discussion. If you are interested in receiving the resources to have your own family book club, please complete the attached FORM by April 6 at 3:00 and resources will be sent home on Monday April 10.
 

   

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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 3 as we Light it Up Blue at Traeger!

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UPCOMING PSC EVENTS!

Bingo Night: Friday, April 28th One of our biggest events of the year is on the books: Bingo Night on Friday, April 28th! This is one of our most popular events and always sells out, so if you haven’t already, be sure to get your Bingo cards and pizza at https://traeger.ptboard.com/formvw?store=3016&form=10 today! We’re also looking for volunteers as this event in particular takes so many wonderful people to make this happen. To help with this fun evening, grab a friend and signup at https://traeger.ptboard.com/sgnvw?signup=jW9Q47QzTcShlWq00YYZkXN___5-C8el-3___nnSIg7t.

Golf Outing: Sunday, May 21st Our golf outing is back! Join us for the 3rd annual Carl Traeger Elementary PSC Golf Outing scheduled for Sunday, May 21st at Lake Breeze Golf Course in Winneconne. We invite all CTE families, staff, and friends to participate in this 18-hole foursome scramble. Registration is open with early bird pricing at $65 per person or $260 per foursome with breakfast, snacks, and lunch included. Plus, there will be hole events with fun prizes throughout the course. Learn more and signup today before the event sells out at:  https://traeger.ptboard.com/formvw?store=3016&form=9.

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Wisconsin Forward Exam testing has begun!  Please ensure that your child is in school on their scheduled testing days. Makeups are challenging to schedule and result in additional lost instructional time for students.

 

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• April 3
  • Light Up Blue for Autism Theme Day
• April 4
  • School Colors Day
• April 5
  • Walk to School Wednesday
  • Paraprofessionals are the Heart of our School-Wear Red
• April 6
  • Paraprofessionals are Valued Members of our Team-Favorite Sports Apparel Day

• April 7

  • No School for Students

• April 11
  • PSC in LMC 6:00pm
• April 12
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• April 18
  • K-Kids in LMC 6:00
• April 19
  • Walk to School Wednesday
• April 21
  • No School for Students

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Questions, Concerns, Suggestions

At Carl Traeger Elementary, we are dedicated to providing the best educational program possible for our children. Should something occur that you have a question about or are unhappy with, please give your child's teacher a call first and then your child's principal so that they can work together with you to address your need. Brenna Garrison-Bruden can be reached at 424-0221.  If you have a concern that you have been unable to resolve with a staff member or the principal, you may call the district office at 424-0395 and they will help you address your concern and/or connect you with others who can help.

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Community Flyers and Events

The Oshkosh Area School District invites families to explore all that Oshkosh has to offer. A variety of community events, activities, and resources are available on the District's Community Links webpage. This listing is updated in real-time so please check back often to stay in the know!

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TRAEGER TALESMarch 17, 2023: Issue 27

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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March Madness Book Tournament

For the last month we have had 16 picture books battling each other. K-2nd grades have voted on their favorites to advance and 3rd-5th grades voted on their favorites. We are down to our final 2 and we need your help! Would your family click here to read our final 2 books and then vote on your favorite? Thanks for your help in choosing our winner!

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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 3 as we Light it Up Blue at Traeger!

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Online registration for the 2023 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 27, 2023 at 3:00pm.  Detailed course information about all course options, including special camps and registration instructions are available on the OASD Summer School Webpage in the Summer School Course Guide. 

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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 additional lost instructional time for students.

 

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PSC Mission Statement: The purpose of the Carl Traeger Elementary Parents and Staff for Children (PSC) organization is to serve in a voluntary, supportive and cooperative role bringing home, school and the community together; to make all children, parents and staff feel important, special, capable and a part of the community, to support Carl Traeger Elementary school by providing necessary resources for childrens’ educational benefit.

PSC Minutes  

March 14th @ 5:00 p.m. Volunteer Meeting

PSC Agenda/Volunteer Meetings- March 14th, 2023 
5-6pm Golf/ Craft Fair: BINGO Volunteer Meeting

1. Golf Outing - Sunday, May 21st, 2023

• Volunteers

  • Event planning

    • Lead Volunteers - Kelly, Mandy, and Paul (TBD)

  • Sponsorships 

    • Title sponsor - Quandt Plumbing

    • Lunch sponsor - Wihlm Dental

    • Nichole sent form to get additional sponsors

    • Dinner sponsor will be adjusted to breakfast/snack

  • Volunteers needed for

    • Raffles, Breakfast/Lunch, Prizes, Games, Marketing, and Signage

    • Nichole reach out for goodie bag type items

    • Signage - additional signs for putt against principal, closest to pizza box, registration, extra blank cart signs 

    • Jolene will coordinate games again

    • Mandy will reach out to the course for lunch ideas

    • Include breakfast in clubhouse before golf begins and snacks on cart 

2. Craft Fair explanation - October 21st - Heather/Nichole

• Last Year Committee Chairs - No updates

  • Bake Sale - Sarah (TBD)

    • Set up Friday the 20th (night before) to bag up goodies. 

  • Concessions - Heather needs Co-Chair 

    • Contact same 3 vendors and sub vendor

  • Admissions - Kelly Zanders

  • Vendors - Nichole Casper

  • Setup - Megan Paulik

    • Set up Friday the 20th (booths, tables, signs, etc) 

3. BINGO Night - April 28th - Megan Paulik
Volunteers will needed from: 430pm-730pm

•  Committee Chairs - No updates

  • Concessions coordinator - Erin Anderson

  • Front Table/Registration - Megan Paulik

  • Classroom Baskets - Kara Boss 

  • Adult Raffle Baskets - Katie Zurawski

  • 50/50 Raffle - Dustin Montalvo

  • Prize Patrol - OPEN

    • Volunteers 4th grade and up

  • Pizza - Mandy Stein

• OWHS Student Volunteers & Boy Scouts

  • OWHS - help with concessions

  • Boy Scouts - help with prize patrol

 

Regular Meeting @ 6pm

Who are we?  PSC Officers

• President: Nichole Casper 

• Vice President: Megan Paulik

• Co-Secretaries: Heather Swenson & Mandy Stein

• Co-Treasurers: Jolene Halbach & Nick Zanders

• Communication & Outreach: Kelly Zanders

 

1. Introduction

2. Icebreaker

   1. Fav and least fav fundraiser to help plan next year’s budget

   2. Suggestion to include local businesses more that don’t require a lead/volunteers 

3. Upcoming Volunteer & Donation Opportunities

   1. BINGO

      1. Adult Baskets

   2. 5th Grade Graduation/Dare Graduation

      1. Come up with way to earn fund and what will be donated to school (last year was donation to Makers Space)

   3. Teacher Appreciation (first week in May) - Theme = “Friends” TV show - looking for someone to chair each day below

      1. Donuts & Coffee - looking for donation from coffee shop (Nichole reached out to Dunkin) - bring day of

      2. Gift cards - looking for $5 donations (89 staff members) -sign up on PT Board (due April 24th)

      3. Snacks - fruit, baked goods, chips, etc.

      4. Kit kats - “we were on a break” - donate kit kat candy bars

   4. Golf (see pre-meeting notes)

4. Fundraiser Updates

   1. Funset - Mandy

      1. Sold 99 wristbands out of 100 - profit was $506

   2. Herd and apparel - Nichole

      1. Stick to 2 games/year 

      2. Rollover deposit for next deposit

      3. Suggestion to look into Timber Rattlers

   3. Ice Cream Social - Megan

      1. Sold 171 sundaes - profit $561.50

      2. Start scooping at 6:30 and last person comes through at 7:30 so consider something easier for next year, but wait until we know who the volunteers will be

5. Treasurer Update 

   1. Voting on Budget for BINGO - Mandy motion to approve; Nichole second; approved

   2. Voting on Budget for Golf - Jenny motion to approve; Heather second; approved

6. Upcoming Events

   1. Culver’s Night (April 24th) - canceling because requires 5 volunteers and cannot be children

   2. Teriyaki Madness - possibility to replace funds budgeted for Culvers ($400) - looking for other suggestions

   3. BINGO - April 28th

   4. Golf - May 21st 

   5. Pizza - March 29th - Eaton’s (both locations) - all day/no form required - STOCK UP!

7. Nominating Committee Report - Jenny provided update from Kenlin that no other nominations other than current officers

   1. Vice President: Megan Paulik

   2. Co-Treasurers: Jolene Halbach & Nick Zanders

   3. Communication & Outreach: Kelly Zanders

8. VP, Co-Treasurer,  and Communication & Outreach Elections - Nichole Casper

   1. Will vote on officer positions next month

9. Next Meeting-April 11th

10.  Additional Comments, Questions or Ideas 

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