From the Head of School
What a quick week with only 3 days on campus, but there was still time to accomplish a lot. I saw PK and JK enjoying PE with Coach B while reinforcing concepts they were learning in class, Students in art creating straight line animals drawings, students of all ages enjoying their Tot Pot lunches, and those students interested in running for student council busy making posters and writing speeches. The candidates for office will share their speeches at the next all school assembly on September 24th.
We are just over 2 weeks into the school year and already we’re hearing the words “I can’t find …...”. This weekend would be an excellent time for you to check in with your student to see how it’s going. Are they feeling frustrated because they can’t find things or is it going well? Are they using the tools provided – planners, Managebac(LS) or Renweb(MS) to check their assignments? Are they remembering to bring their computer charger? Are they getting to bed on time so that they can make it to school on time? Are they eating a healthy breakfast so their bodies have the fuel they need to function efficiently? Order and structure are extremely important for people of all ages, particularly children. No matter how young, having structure provides security because students know what to expect. Having routines makes it much easier for your student to accomplish what they need to in a timely manner. Starting strong sets the tone for the year. Let’s strive for excellence.
Want to Volunteer?
As we continue to take steps towards normalcy on our campus, we are looking to re-start the PTO, Room Parent and Parent Volunteer Programs. Fliers will be handed out at Back-to-School night as well as sent home in back packs on September 23rd. The fliers will list the opportunities available to get involved. You are welcome to sign up for as many as you wish. Once we know who is interested, we will contact you with additional information.
Please note – to be a volunteer on campus, you must be fully vaccinated and provide a copy of your vaccination card to the office. Volunteers will be required to wear a mask and will have to check in at the office to be screened before coming on to campus.
Parking Lot Reminders
Please remember:
The speed limit is 10 mph.
Be cautious of younger students and older visitors when backing out of your parking space.
Parents dropping off in the morning are asked to stay with their student until they have been cleared by the GPS staff to come on to campus .
Preschool parents must walk their student to their classroom in the morning.
Students in Kindergarten through 8th grade may use carpool drop off.
All parents must park and pick up their student in person at the designated area or classroom.
Help us keep the parking area safe for all of the GPS community.
Meet Claudia Rivera
We welcome a new staff member to our Preschool faculty, Claudia Rivera. Miss Claudia brings a wealth of experience to create a loving and safe environment for our youngest learners in the Blue Room.
My name is Claudia Rivera. This is my first year at GPS and I am excited to get to know all of you and your children better throughout the school year. My own daughter actually attended First Pres. Weekday School many years ago, having Ms. Mary as a science teacher, before it recently merged with GPS. As a parent, I know first-hand the value and dedication this school adds to a child’s most precious early childhood school years. As a teacher, I have over 20 years of experience teaching children in the San Fernando Valley. I earned my Child Development Associate Teacher Permit through the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. In addition, I maintain a current Pediatric First Aid & CPR training certificate as well as an Associate Teacher, Infant Care Teacher, and Preschool certificates from Pierce College. I stay current in early childhood education by being a member of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the California Association for the Education of Young Children (CAEYC). I am well versed in Outdoor and Creative Curriculum for Early Childhood Development. My philosophy is to install joy and rigor into every child’s heart for the love of learning in a fun way. I like to conduct hands-on projects so the children can experience learning by using all of their senses. If you ever have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to me. I can’t wait to have a great school year caring for your child and teaching them to play, learn and grow together!
We are happy to have Miss Claudia at GPS.
