Welcome back to an exciting 2018-2019 school year! Our staff is thrilled about the upcoming school year and honored that you have entrusted us with the responsibility of helping your child grow both socially and academically.
Here are some highlights of new programs that we will be starting at Anthony this year:
PBL (Project Based Learning): We will focus on project based learning this year which requires students to work on a project that addresses a real world problem or question. Project based learning will be incorporated into each subject area.
STAR Reading Initiative: Here at Anthony, teachers will dedicate time to allow students to read independently each day. This could be for 5 minutes or 20 minutes; however, students will be given the opportunity to read a book of their own choosing. There will be quarterly reading challenges for the school as a whole that will involve Mr. Kessler, Mrs. Gonzalez, or Ms. Bond having to perform a task if the challenge is met.
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math): This year, we will have a STEM class incorporated into our specials rotation. During STEM class, students will be conducting hands-on projects that require the integration of various subjects. The library will be utilized for this class and students will have access to our digital and print resources.
Anthony Student Ambassadors: Mrs. Reardon, our school counselor, and Mr. Kessler, principal, will be implementing a student ambassador program for 3rd-5th grade. A small group of students will be selected, based on certain criteria, to be a student ambassador. These students will learn about leadership responsibilities and have opportunities to practice these leadership skills. More information will be presented to those grade levels after school starts.
Here are some highlights from around the building:
As you drive in the car loop, you will notice a huge United States map painted on the pavement. This was a project completed and paid for by our STUCO! This will be utilized by teachers and students in order to have fun practicing geography skills!
There is new library furniture your students will be using while in STEM class or counseling lessons. The new tables and chairs allow for more flexibility than the old furniture allowed. Teachers and staff will be able to arrange the library area according to the lesson plan or needs of the students.
Please welcome our new staff members! Mrs. Laura Gonzalez-Assistant Principal, Mrs. Cassandra Calderon-Receptionist, Ms. Kelsey Basler-SPED, Ms. Ashley Rosado-1st Grade, and Ms. Maggie Wells-Kindergarten. Please make sure to say hi and give a great Anthony welcome to these new staff members!
The PTO needs you! Our PTO (Parent Teacher Organization) strongly encourages parents and community members to join our PTO. The PTO membership is FREE! There are no obligations to attend any specific meetings or events. All that the PTO asks is that you help out in any way possible. It could be anywhere from regularly helping and attending meetings or just volunteering once at a school event. The PTO is here to support our students and teachers. PTO looks forward to seeing you soon!
Finally, I truly believe that it takes a strong community in order to help every student reach their potential. My door is always open to students, staff, parents and the community. Stop by and say hello.
Thanks,
Scott Kessler
Principal
Anthony Elementary School