BearFacts News - 04.01.21

Emerson header

Si tiene alguna duda sobre esta nota debido a la traduccion,
por favor comuniquese con Rafael Friedmann via email: rfriedmann@aol.com

 

MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Dear Emerson Families,

There has been so much transition this week.  Thank you for bearing with us as we try on new processes and procedures.  We are so happy to have students back on campus and we hope that our families in distance learning are enjoying the opportunity to meet some new classmates and, in some cases, a new teacher.  After Spring Break, we will welcome the 3rd through 5th grade in-person students back on campus.  

A Big Shout Out to all the parent volunteers and students who helped us prepare for our first day back on Monday.  The chalk decorations, balloons, and the installation of the new sails helped set the tone for a cheerful return.  The updated bulletin boards in the hallways give us a refreshing feeling of hope and excitement. We appreciate our Emerson parents- thank you for the many ways you have shown your support in the past year.  

As promised by the District, student testing for Covid is now available. This is an optional program for students.  Starting this Friday, April 2nd, students in Kindergarten through 2nd grade will be able to take an oral test, administered by a Nurse on campus.  Testing will be conducted by PMH Laboratories. If you are interested in learning more about this organization visit https://pmhlaboratory.com/about/pmh-laboratory.  Emerson teachers will continue to be testing regularly, as we have been since last November. You can sign your child up for testing by completing this one time Registration Form. You will also need to complete this one time Parent Consent Form.  The Patient Test Request Form will need to be completed each time your student takes the test. Finally, this Uninsurance Program form only needs to be completed if you do not currently have insurance.

With Spring Break approaching, I would like to remind you that we are asking families to quarantine away from school if you are traveling outside of the Bay Area.  We are following Health Recommendation from the City Of Berkeley, which recommends that anyone traveling in a plane, bus, train or other public transportation outside of the Bay Area remain at home for 10 days to monitor the development of Covid-19 symptoms. Here is the website with more details: https://www.cityofberkeley.info/quarantine/. Thank you for your consideration and doing all you can to keep the entire Emerson community healthy and safe.

Our families who have remained in Distance Learning are very important to us.  Going forward, the remaining All School Meetings will take place from 8:30 to 9:00 am.  This will allow everyone to participate.  Our April All School Meeting will be on April 16th and our Read- A -Thon Reward Meeting will be on April 23rd.  Also, we will continue the library book distribution for our Distance Learning students and everyone will receive a free Emerson T-Shirt as a thank you gift from the Heart of Emerson!  Let’s stay strong together, whether in person or distance learning. 

I hope you have a safe and relaxing Spring Break!  

Take good care, 

Jana Holmes 

Upcoming Events and Key Dates

Thursday, Apr 1: Queer Family Meet-Up, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm, https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87177888902
(meeting ID 871 7788 8902)

Monday, Apr 5 - Friday, Apr 9: Spring Recess (No School)

Monday, Apr 12: Emerson Campus Reopens for In-person Learning for Grades 3-5

Saturday, Apr 17: School Picture Day (see below for more information); Order by Apr 15

Find more dates/details: emerson.berkeleypta.org/calendar

Note to Readers: BearFacts articles and calendar items are based on submissions from the community and reviewed and edited under the PTA communication policy.  Inclusion of an item in BearFacts by itself does not indicate sponsorship or endorsement by the PTA, Emerson school staff, or BUSD.

Read-a-Thon Update

Thank you, Emerson students for participating in this year’s Read-a-Thon. You’re really, truly amazing!! Results and prizes will be announced during the upcoming All-School Meeting on April 16th.

Please bring back your Pizza Box Art Kits

(It's not too late if you forgot!)

Here are some suggestions for how to do that so we will have more time for art and less time spent on supply management!

1. Put your name on the pizza box.

2. Put all of the loose art supplies in the plastic pouch for use at school (paint, crayons, gluestick, etc). Bonus points if you write your name on the pouch with a Sharpie!

3. Leave the various unused papers in the box.

4. Keep all of your own art at home to enjoy!

Thank you!!

Ms. Ames

Staying Active During Spring Break

There are some fun, new additions to Coach Robinson’s PE website. Check it out for ideas for staying active during Spring Break - or any time!

Here is the link: https://sites.google.com/berkeley.net/emersonpe

*Note that you need to log in using your BUSD account.

Picture Day in the Park

Roots & Shoots is offering a safe, socially-distanced opportunity to have your student’s school picture taken on SATURDAY, APRIL 17TH (order deadline Thursday April 15th)

More information here: https://order.roots-shoots.com/form-5851357/picture-day-in-the-park-spring-2021

 A few notes:
-Once the order form is received and your payment is complete, you will receive a confirmation email from PayPal.
-After the order deadline, you will receive another email from Roots & Shoots with info about specific location meetup and your student's small group time slot. We are going to break up each time slot into smaller slots with no more than 6-7 students.
-Space limited.

ZOOM FRIENDLY RULE REMINDERS

  1.  Be prepared for class by wearing clothes, putting away toys and ready to participate

  2.  Be aware of your surroundings- remember your teacher and class can see behind you. Try to find a quiet place to join the Zoom meeting.

  3. Mute yourself when you enter the meeting use the microphone bottom and wait for the teacher to call on you to unmute.

  4. Raise your hand and wait for the teacher to call on you- take turns and practice being patient. 

  5. Be respectful- contribute to class positively and be a Zoom leader by participating responsibly.

Find Emerson Online

Website: emerson.berkeleypta.org

Remind: Text @7f6hb to 81010; or go to www.remind.com/join/7f6hb

Facebook: www.facebook.com/emersonpta (or follow @emersonPTA)

About BearFacts News:
BearFacts News is a weekly publication created by parent volunteers. Typically, it is distributed each Thursday in students' Look Folders and posted online at emerson.berkeleypta.org. During Distance Learning, it is only posted on the website.

BearFacts articles and calendar items are based on submissions from the community and reviewed and edited under the PTA communication policy.  Inclusion of an item in BearFacts by itself does not indicate sponsorship or endorsement by the PTA, Emerson school staff, or BUSD.

If you have a news item or announcement to include in the BearFacts News, please send an email to emersonschoolnews@gmail.com. Please keep your message brief and include all the pertinent details including dates, times, locations and contact information. The deadline is each Monday at 6 p.m.

Copyright © 2020. Emerson Elementary PTA. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
2800 Forest Ave.
Berkeley, CA  94705

BearFacts News - 3.25.2021

Emerson header

Si tiene alguna duda sobre esta nota debido a la traduccion,
por favor comuniquese con Rafael Friedmann via email: rfriedmann@aol.com

 

MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Dear Emerson Families, 

The anticipation is growing for our transition into the new distance learning program and our return to in-person.  After a full year of uncertainty, challenges, and trials, we are entering into yet another shift.  As excited as we are, we still ask for your patience and understanding. The pandemic is not over, we must follow strict safety protocols dictated by federal, state, and local health agencies. You can find more information from the district for elementary families at: https://www.berkeleyschools.net/important-information-for-elementary-families-spring-2021/

For students who are remaining in distance learning, Kindergarten through second-grade families should have received classroom teacher assignments earlier this week.  Students in 3rd through 5th grades will be notified of their classroom assignments by Tuesday, March 30th. Ms. Michelle Sinclair, former Principal of Craigmont Elementary School, will be the Administrator in charge of the distance learning program.  Our Emerson staff is collaborating regarding creative ways to maintain community with our families who are continuing in distance learning.  We will provide more information about the April and May All School Meetings and other Special Events that we encourage our distance learning students to attend. 

For students returning to campus, bear with us before and after school. It will take a while to get all the students on campus and release them at the end of the day.  We do not have the capability to supervise students before and after school and parents are not allowed on campus, so please be on time.  Following health guidelines, the front office will be closed to parents. 

Complete the health screening every single morning, before bringing your child to school.  Your responses to the Daily Health Screener will be required and necessary for your child to enter the campus for each school day. The questionnaire verifies whether or not your child has tested positive for Covid-19 if your child has been in close contact with anyone who has tested positive and whether or not your child is experiencing symptoms of Covid-19.  If the answer to any of these questions is “yes,” your child should not come to school. 

The school day is from 8:00 to 1:00 pm.  Kindergarten students are released 15 minutes earlier at 12:45 pm each day. 

Here is our staggered start schedule:

Last name A- K arrive on campus between 8:00- 8:10 am

Last name L- Z arrive on campus between 8:10- 8:20 am 

Students will be offered breakfast when they arrive on campus.  They will eat it outside before going into the classroom.  Please remember to dress your child in layers, as they will be spending a lot of time outdoors.  Also, if you are sending your child with a lunch, make sure they can open everything inside the lunch themselves and that nothing needs to be microwaved.  

To expedite the morning check-in process please come to campus with a piece of paper with your child’s first and last name written on it.   We will refer to this paper to find your child’s name in our Health Screening spreadsheet. 

Kinder and 1st-grade students may complete the health screening and enter the school on Garber street (behind the school). At the end of the day, Kindergarteners should be picked up at 12:45 pm on Garber street. 1st-grade students should be picked up at 1:00 pm on Garber Street.

Second, through fifth-grade students should complete the health screening and enter through the gates on the blacktop according to the staggered start times associated with families’ last names. At the end of the day, which is 1:00 pm, please return to the gate area on the blacktop and staff will assist you to locate your child.  

Importantly, if you need bus transportation to Emerson, you must reach out to the Transportation Department as soon as possible.  Due to social distancing on the bus, transportation offerings will be limited for general education students.  Special education students will have priority.  All students who take the school bus must complete the Daily Health Screener before boarding the bus.  Parents can submit requests via email at transportationdept@berkeley.net or call 510- 644- 6182.  Once bus transportation requests are submitted, parents will be contacted with a start date, schedule pickup and drop-off times. 

If you are returning in person, we ask that you kindly return any district/ school computer that you may have at home.  In-person teachers will use the computers from time to time in the classroom and we would like to have them back.  Also, we will need them for the Spring STAR Assessment and the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress which is typically administered in May.  You may send computers back to school with your child- and please don’t forget the send the charging cord, too. 

I will be holding the third Coffee with the Principal this Thursday, March 25 at 8:15 am. If you weren’t able to make it to this morning’s Coffee with the Principal, please watch the recording which will be sent out via Remind. One thing we have learned during this pandemic is that change is constant. My goal is to keep you updated.  Please stay engaged this Spring as we continue to adjust and refine our practices and policies per the Health Guidance.  Thank you for your support and patience - we appreciate the Emerson community! 

Take good care,

Jana Holmes 

Upcoming Events and Key Dates

Monday, Mar 29: Emerson Campus Reopens for In-person Learning for TK-2nd grade

Tuesday, Mar 30: Grades 3-5 Distance Learning Teacher Assignments Sent by District Office

Monday, Apr 5 - Friday, Apr 9: Spring Recess (No School)

Monday, Apr 12: Emerson Campus Reopens for In-person Learning for Grades 3-5

Find more dates/details: emerson.berkeleypta.org/calendar

Note to Readers: BearFacts articles and calendar items are based on submissions from the community and reviewed and edited under the PTA communication policy.  Inclusion of an item in BearFacts by itself does not indicate sponsorship or endorsement by the PTA, Emerson school staff, or BUSD.

Read-a-Thon Update: Reading Logs Due Tomorrow

Thank you, Emerson students for participating in this year’s Read-a-Thon. You’re amazing!! Don’t forget to use the reading log to record your minutes. Your classroom teacher will let you know how to turn in your reading log. Please make sure it’s turned in by tomorrow, March 26th to be eligible for the prizes. Questions: contact Ms. Jeannie at jeanniewang@berkeley.net or Ashleigh Kanat at ashleigh.kanat@gmail.com. We’ll announce prize winners during an upcoming All-School Meeting.

Announcement from Ms. Ames

Please bring your Pizza Box Art Kits back to school.

We will be doing art in the regular classrooms, so it would be great to have all of your materials with you. There should be a pouch full of supplies (gluestick, sharpie, crayons and/or markers, etc.) and a lot of different papers in the box. Please bring it all back for use at school---- and also include any extra drawing paper that came home in the library bags last month. Thank you so much. I'm looking forward to doing art with you at school!

Ms. Ames

Yearbook Update

Sadly, there will not be an Emerson community yearbook for 2020-21. We realize that with an old link, you can still navigate to the ordering page, and place an order. Please refrain from doing so.

There is currently exploration into a smaller book for 5th graders—meaning it would include photos of the 5th graders, plus the Emerson staff—but NOT kindergarten through 4th grade. IF this goes ahead, we will reach out with details to 5th grade families in April.

If you've already ordered for a student in a lower grade, we will contact you and offer to cancel.

We're hopeful that the next school year will be conducive to producing the yearbook once again!

ZOOM FRIENDLY RULE REMINDERS

  1.  Be prepared for class by wearing clothes, putting away toys and ready to participate

  2.  Be aware of your surroundings- remember your teacher and class can see behind you. Try to find a quiet place to join the Zoom meeting.

  3. Mute yourself when you enter the meeting use the microphone bottom and wait for the teacher to call on you to unmute.

  4. Raise your hand and wait for the teacher to call on you- take turns and practice being patient. 

  5. Be respectful- contribute to class positively and be a Zoom leader by participating responsibly.

Find Emerson Online

Website: emerson.berkeleypta.org

Remind: Text @7f6hb to 81010; or go to www.remind.com/join/7f6hb

Facebook: www.facebook.com/emersonpta (or follow @emersonPTA)

About BearFacts News:
BearFacts News is a weekly publication created by parent volunteers. Typically, it is distributed each Thursday in students' Look Folders and posted online at emerson.berkeleypta.org. During Distance Learning, it is only posted on the website.

BearFacts articles and calendar items are based on submissions from the community and reviewed and edited under the PTA communication policy.  Inclusion of an item in BearFacts by itself does not indicate sponsorship or endorsement by the PTA, Emerson school staff, or BUSD.

If you have a news item or announcement to include in the BearFacts News, please send an email to emersonschoolnews@gmail.com. Please keep your message brief and include all the pertinent details including dates, times, locations and contact information. The deadline is each Monday at 6 p.m.

Copyright © 2020. Emerson Elementary PTA. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
2800 Forest Ave.
Berkeley, CA  94705

BearFacts News - 3.18.2021

Emerson header

Si tiene alguna duda sobre esta nota debido a la traduccion,
por favor comuniquese con Rafael Friedmann via email: rfriedmann@aol.com

 

MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Dear Emerson Families, 

Thank you for completing your survey to indicate your decision to send your child in person or remain in distance learning.  No matter your decision, we remain one Emerson family and we understand that each family’s circumstances are different. We hope to share more specific details about the schedules, teacher assignments, staggered bell schedules, and special offerings soon.  I will continue to host a “Coffee with the Principal” on Thursday mornings to answer questions and help us all prepare for the changes ahead.  I am confident we can work together to successfully navigate the changes ahead of this spring.

One very key component to a smooth start to the day will be your completion of the Daily Health Survey every single evening before your child comes to school.  Your responses to the Daily Health Screener will be required and necessary for your child to enter the campus for each school day.  The questionnaire verifies whether or not your child has tested positive for Covid-19, if your child has been in close contact with anyone who has tested positive and whether or not your child is experiencing symptoms of Covid-19.  If the answer to any of these questions is “yes,” your child should not come to school.  If the health screener is not completed, a staff member will go through the screener questions with your child, which will delay their entry to the campus and may lead to your being called to return to school to pick up your child and take them back home.  We will rely on each family taking the time to complete this form before your arrival on campus each morning. 

Should your child exhibit symptoms of COVID, test positive, or come into close contact with someone with a confirmed case of COVID, you can expect the following from Emerson’s COVID team:

  • Your child will be escorted to an isolated room or area. 

  • You will receive a call and/or text from a COVID team member to notify you and request immediate pick up of your child.

  • You will receive preliminary information about how your child should isolate or quarantine (depending on the circumstance).

  • We will strongly encourage you to contact your child’s medical provider and, if necessary, to get your child tested.

  • Should your child have to remain in isolation or quarantine, we will help you work with their teacher to set up a distance-learning plan.

  • Throughout this process, we will work closely with Berkeley Public Health to support their case investigation and contact tracing efforts.

You also can expect that: 

  • All students and staff will receive health screenings before entering the school building every day.

  • Any student or staff member who exhibits COVID symptoms will be sent home immediately.

  • If your child was in close contact (within 6 feet for 15 minutes or more cumulatively over 24 hours) with an individual who tested positive, we will send emails/letters to provide more information and recommended next steps.

  • Should there be a known positive case in the school community, we will send a communication notifying all parents, guardians, and staff.  

  • In all cases, we will respect the confidentiality of our students, staff, and families. We will not release the names or other identifying information about any members of the Emerson community who test positive, except information that we are legally required to share with the local health department.

Importantly, if you need bus transportation to Emerson, you must reach out to the Transportation Department as soon as possible.  Due to social distancing on the bus, transportation offerings will be limited for general education students.  Special education students will have priority.  All students who take the school bus must complete the Daily Health Screener before boarding the bus.  Parents can submit requests via email at transportationdept@berkeley.net or call 510- 644- 6182.  Once bus transportation requests are submitted, parents will be contacted with a start date, schedule pickup and drop-off times. 

Thank you for your support during this time of transition.  We can do this together!

Take care, 

Jana Holmes 

Upcoming Events and Key Dates

Friday, Mar 12 - Sunday, Mar 21: Emerson’s 2021 Read-a-Thon (see message below)

Monday, Apr 5 - Friday, Apr 9: Spring Recess (No School)

Tuesday, Mar 23: TK- Grade 2 Distance Learning Teacher Assignments Sent by District Office

Monday, Mar 29: Emerson Campus Reopens for In-person Learning for TK-2nd grade

Tuesday, Mar 30: Grades 3-5 Distance Learning Teacher Assignments Sent by District Office

Monday, Apr 12: Emerson Campus Reopens for In-person Learning for Grades 3-5

Find more dates/details: emerson.berkeleypta.org/calendar

Note to Readers: BearFacts articles and calendar items are based on submissions from the community and reviewed and edited under the PTA communication policy.  Inclusion of an item in BearFacts by itself does not indicate sponsorship or endorsement by the PTA, Emerson school staff, or BUSD.

Read-a-Thon Update

Emerson students - you rock! You’re challenging yourselves and discovering new types of books to read. Keep up the great work - you have a few more days left to read, read, read. The Read-a-Thon ends at the end of the day on March 21.

Don’t forget to use the reading log to record your minutes. Your classroom teacher will let you know how to turn in your reading log. Please make sure it’s turned in by March 26 to be eligible for the prizes.

If you have any questions, contact Ms. Jeannie at  jeanniewang@berkeley.net or Ashleigh Kanat at ashleigh.kanat@gmail.com.

CHECK OUT THE “DAD’S PAD”   

The “Dad’s Pad” is a new offering by the BUSD Office of Family Engagement & Equity. This group will be an exciting space for African American fathers and father figures to regularly come together, under the Leadership of Dr. Khalid White, to build community in an empowering space. Please sign up now if you are interested.

ZOOM FRIENDLY RULE REMINDERS

  1.  Be prepared for class by wearing clothes, putting away toys and ready to participate

  2.  Be aware of your surroundings- remember your teacher and class can see behind you. Try to find a quiet place to join the Zoom meeting.

  3. Mute yourself when you enter the meeting use the microphone bottom and wait for the teacher to call on you to unmute.

  4. Raise your hand and wait for the teacher to call on you- take turns and practice being patient. 

  5. Be respectful- contribute to class positively and be a Zoom leader by participating responsibly.

Find Emerson Online

Website: emerson.berkeleypta.org

Remind: Text @7f6hb to 81010; or go to www.remind.com/join/7f6hb

Facebook: www.facebook.com/emersonpta (or follow @emersonPTA)

About BearFacts News:
BearFacts News is a weekly publication created by parent volunteers. Typically, it is distributed each Thursday in students' Look Folders and posted online at emerson.berkeleypta.org. During Distance Learning, it is only posted on the website.

BearFacts articles and calendar items are based on submissions from the community and reviewed and edited under the PTA communication policy.  Inclusion of an item in BearFacts by itself does not indicate sponsorship or endorsement by the PTA, Emerson school staff, or BUSD.

If you have a news item or announcement to include in the BearFacts News, please send an email to emersonschoolnews@gmail.com. Please keep your message brief and include all the pertinent details including dates, times, locations and contact information. The deadline is each Monday at 6 p.m.

Copyright © 2020. Emerson Elementary PTA. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
2800 Forest Ave.
Berkeley, CA  94705

BearFacts News - 3.11.2021

Emerson header

Si tiene alguna duda sobre esta nota debido a la traduccion,
por favor comuniquese con Rafael Friedmann via email: rfriedmann@aol.com

 

MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Dear Emerson Families, 

We are busy preparing for a return in person. We have socially distanced furniture in the classrooms, cleaned and sanitized, ordered and assembled supplies, decluttered, decorated, and much more. We know that the decision whether or not to continue in distance learning is yours to make. We will respect your choice, but we need you to complete the Superintendent’s survey today by noon if you have not done so already.  Here is the survey. 

This past week, I recorded a video intended to be shared with families to help you prepare for the changes on campus. I want to thank our video volunteers, including Mr. Phil and two fifth-grade students, Leo and Acadia. Some of the topics we covered were:  what to expect with the daily health screening, changes in the way students move about campus, what you should bring to school, outdoor activities - such as lunch and recess, and safety and cleaning procedures and expectations.  For students returning to campus, staff will spend a good deal of time addressing new school procedures and routines.  We will also focus on our student’s social and emotional well-being as we adjust to our new normal.  

In the weeks ahead we will face many challenges together. I thank you for your partnership.  I encourage you to stay engaged and strive to learn about the changes on campus that are intended to keep us all safe. You will be expected to fill out a health screening each evening before bringing your student to school.  Each student will need to be “checked in” every morning, and the process will be much smoother and faster if the health form is filled out as expected, the evening before.  Another important change you should be aware of is that parents will not be allowed on campus. After clearing the health screening with your child at the gate, your child will say goodbye to you and then walk to the classroom to wash their hands and begin their day.  We will follow the State and City of Berkeley health guidelines, which restrict visitors and parents from entering the school campus.  

Although we will have students on campus for classes, we will limit our large group gatherings.  All School meetings and parent’s meetings such as PTA and School Site Council will continue via Zoom. Social distancing and mask-wearing will continue until the federal, state, and local health agencies indicate it is no longer needed.  Thankfully, the number of Bay Area citizens who are receiving the vaccine is increasing each day.  We are grateful that we will soon be able to welcome students onto the campus. The light is at the end of the tunnel and we are grateful for your continued support.  

Take care,

Jana Holmes 

Upcoming Events and Key Dates

Thursday, Mar 11: Enrollment Survey due by noon (follow link to survey)

Friday, Mar 12 - Sunday, Mar 21: Emerson’s 2021 Read-a-Thon (see message below)

Tuesday, Mar 16: Family Literacy Night, Elephant and Piggie Storytime (see message below)

Apr 5 - Apr 9: Spring Recess (No School)

Find more dates/details: emerson.berkeleypta.org/calendar

Note to Readers: BearFacts articles and calendar items are based on submissions from the community and reviewed and edited under the PTA communication policy.  Inclusion of an item in BearFacts by itself does not indicate sponsorship or endorsement by the PTA, Emerson school staff, or BUSD.

Enrollment Survey for Remainder of 2020/2021 School Year

Berkeley Public Schools plans to reopen Elementary school campuses on March 29th for TK-2nd grade and April 12th for grades 3-5.
In order for principals and teachers to prepare for students, we need to know by Thursday, March 11th your enrollment choice - either for your child to continue in distance learning or return to in-person learning. Please make sure that you complete this survey by noon today.

Read-a-Thon Begins Tomorrow

Tomorrow is the first day of our 2021 Read-a-Thon. For the next ten days, we encourage all students to read as much as they can, while raising money for Emerson. We’re striving for full participation - meaning we hope every student will find some time to read at home! There will be prizes for the top three students in each grade who read the most minutes and a schoolwide prize if all together we read 100,000 minutes!  If you haven’t already, please visit https://99pledges.com/fund/emersonreads to find your student’s page. You can forward the link to your student’s page to friends and family far and wide!  

Here are forms you may need: Student and Family Guide/ Student and Family Guide-Spanish and the Reading Log 

Questions: contact Ms. Jeannie at jeanniewang@berkeley.net or Ashleigh Kanat at ashleigh.kanat@gmail.com.

March Shout Outs

Hello, Emerson Community! We want to celebrate and congratulate our March Shout Out students! Please check out this Flipgrid to see special video shout outs from your teachers.

MARCH FLIPGRID LiNK

As always, have a fine, fine day! 

Love, The Emerson Staff

March Shout Outs (2).jpg
March Shout Outs (3).jpg

Save the Date!

A fun Family Literacy Night is coming your way!

Do you love Mo Willems' Elephant and Piggie stories?

So do we!

Join Ms. Rachel and Ms. Jeannie for an evening story time.

Here are the flyers for the event: English and Spanish

What: Elephant and Piggie Storytime

Date: Tuesday, March 16th

Time: 7:00-7:30pm

Where: Zoom webinar link on flyer

Why: Listen to some great stories! Add more minutes to your Read-A-Thon Reading Log!

Join the Spring Racial Equity Circle

Registration - Now Open

At Emerson, equity is more than just a word. We invite you to become part of a dynamic community of parents at the 8th Racial Equity Circle. The pandemic has shown clearly the huge disparities in our education system and we need our community now more than ever. As we emerge from this difficult year, let’s emerge stronger with an Emerson that is welcoming to all families.

Tuesdays March 16 - April 27 (total of six meetings), 6:30-8:30 pm via Zoom

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/yXq3T687T86qPJmq5

Find out more about racial equity efforts at Emerson: https://emerson.berkeleypta.org/equity

CHECK OUT THE “DAD’S PAD”   

The “Dad’s Pad” is a new offering by the BUSD Office of Family Engagement & Equity. This group will be an exciting space for African American fathers and father figures to regularly come together, under the Leadership of Dr. Khalid White, to build community in an empowering space. Please sign up now if you are interested.

ZOOM FRIENDLY RULE REMINDERS

  1.  Be prepared for class by wearing clothes, putting away toys and ready to participate

  2.  Be aware of your surroundings- remember your teacher and class can see behind you. Try to find a quiet place to join the Zoom meeting.

  3. Mute yourself when you enter the meeting use the microphone bottom and wait for the teacher to call on you to unmute.

  4. Raise your hand and wait for the teacher to call on you- take turns and practice being patient. 

  5. Be respectful- contribute to class positively and be a Zoom leader by participating responsibly.

Find Emerson Online

Website: emerson.berkeleypta.org

Remind: Text @7f6hb to 81010; or go to www.remind.com/join/7f6hb

Facebook: www.facebook.com/emersonpta (or follow @emersonPTA)

About BearFacts News:
BearFacts News is a weekly publication created by parent volunteers. Typically, it is distributed each Thursday in students' Look Folders and posted online at emerson.berkeleypta.org. During Distance Learning, it is only posted on the website.

BearFacts articles and calendar items are based on submissions from the community and reviewed and edited under the PTA communication policy.  Inclusion of an item in BearFacts by itself does not indicate sponsorship or endorsement by the PTA, Emerson school staff, or BUSD.

If you have a news item or announcement to include in the BearFacts News, please send an email to emersonschoolnews@gmail.com. Please keep your message brief and include all the pertinent details including dates, times, locations and contact information. The deadline is each Monday at 6 p.m.

Copyright © 2020. Emerson Elementary PTA. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
2800 Forest Ave.
Berkeley, CA  94705

BearFacts News - 3.04.2021

Emerson header

Si tiene alguna duda sobre esta nota debido a la traduccion,
por favor comuniquese con Rafael Friedmann via email: rfriedmann@aol.com

 

MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Dear Emerson Families, 

Welcome to the month of March! It’s been a year since we sheltered in place and many of us cannot wait to move into the next phase, one in which families can choose to continue in distance learning or return to an in- person hybrid schedule. Once negotiations have been finalized you will be asked to make a final decision for your family.  We have lots to accomplish in the weeks to come and we will need to partner with you.  Using our usual communication tools, including BearFacts messages, Remind messages, Robotic Phone Calls and our Room Parents we will invite you to a Parent Information Meeting and make all School Reopening information available to you. We encourage you to stay engaged in the weeks ahead.

One critical task to accomplish prior to the return in person is to make sure that the school office has your child’s updated immunization records.  According to legislation, students must have updated T-Dap, Polio, etc. vaccinations before attending school in person.  Ms. Gaby, School Secretary, is emailing and calling parents who have missing records.  Please seriously respect this request and provide us with your child's immunization records as soon as possible.  If you have any questions please contact Gabriellapara@berkeley.net.  

As referenced in the Superintendent message last Friday, Emerson Elementary completed a safety and planning walk with Staff from the City of Berkeley and BUSD.  During this site visit, the City of Berkeley's Deputy Doctor, City of Berkeley Program Manager, and BUSD Risk Assessors set up a model classroom that will serve as a prototype for the rest of our classrooms.  In addition, we created plans for a staggered school entry, student and staff bathroom usage and use of the hallways.  Furthermore, we mapped out a plan for lunch time and playground usage.  We will maximize our outdoor space to allow for cohorts of students to eat outside and play in a staggered schedule.

March will be a busy month.  Please make a note that Friday, March 5 is the end of the second trimester.  Report cards  will be emailed to you by Ms. Gaby or Ms. Michelle by Monday, March 15th.  If you have questions about the report, please contact your child’s teacher. 

This year's theme for the Office of Family Engagement & Equity’s Black History Month Oratorical is Black Women Triumph.  Grades 3-5 are encouraged to submit entries for the competition and they are due Monday, March 22.  Ms. Lily will hold office hours on Mondays from 1- 2 pm and Fridays from 3-4 pm to help students prepare.  For more information please follow the link here. 

The PTA Parent/ Staff Equity Circles will begin this month.  Speaking from personal experience, as I was a participant last Spring, this is an excellent opportunity to learn from the engaging and experienced consultation Ms. Pamela Smalls.  She will equip you with the tools to raise a child who is able to navigate our complex and diverse world with understanding and appreciation.  

We celebrate Cesar Chavez, his advocacy for social and economic justice and the spirit of “Si, se puede!”  (Yes, you can).  We are planning a special All School Meeting on March 26th with more details to come. 

Last, but not least, we encourage you to participate in our Read A Thon.  Yes, it will look different this year, but the excitement is the same.  We will announce the Read-a-Thon to students at the All School Meeting on Friday, March 5th, and students can begin collecting pledges right away (see notice below). The 10 days of reading officially begin on Friday, March 12th! We hope your child will enjoy the “mystery guests” who will read some engaging stories to get us started!

Yes, we have lots to look forward to and we hope you will join us in keeping the Spirit of Emerson alive this spring.  We will need your ongoing support and continued flexibility as we engage in an exciting month with lots of changes and reasons to celebrate.

Take care,

Jana Holmes

Upcoming Events and Key Dates

Friday, Mar 5, 9:00AM: All School Meeting

Wednesday, Mar 10: Spirit Day

Friday, Mar 12 - Sunday, Mar 21: Emerson’s 2021 Read-a-Thon (see message below)

Tuesdays, Mar 16, 23, 30 and Apr 13, 20, 27: Spring Racial Equity Circles (see message below)

Apr 5 - Apr 9: Spring Recess (No School)

Find more dates/details: emerson.berkeleypta.org/calendar

Note to Readers: BearFacts articles and calendar items are based on submissions from the community and reviewed and edited under the PTA communication policy.  Inclusion of an item in BearFacts by itself does not indicate sponsorship or endorsement by the PTA, Emerson school staff, or BUSD.

Read-a-Thon Packets Mailed Home

Emerson Read-A-Thon packets were mailed home to each student earlier this week. The packet contains a student and family guide to how the Read-a-Thon will work, a reading log (which will replace your student’s regular reading log during the Read-a-Thon), and two bookmarks to color in and use during the Read-a-Thon. Tomorrow, the Read-a-Thon will be announced to students during the All-School Meeting, and parents will receive an email with a link to our Read-a-Thon campaign page. If you don’t receive an email, you can search for your student’s page here: http://www.99pledges.com/fund/emersonreads. Questions: contact Ms. Jeannie at  jeanniewang@berkeley.net or Ashleigh Kanat at ashleigh.kanat@gmail.com.

Join the Spring Racial Equity Circle

Registration - Now Open

At Emerson, equity is more than just a word. We invite you to become part of a dynamic community of parents at the 8th Racial Equity Circle. The pandemic has shown clearly the huge disparities in our education system and we need our community now more than ever. As we emerge from this difficult year, let’s emerge stronger with an Emerson that is welcoming to all families.

Tuesdays March 16 - April 27 (total of six meetings), 6:30-8:30 pm via Zoom

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/yXq3T687T86qPJmq5

Find out more about racial equity efforts at Emerson: https://emerson.berkeleypta.org/equity

Reopening WorkING GROUP

A group of Emerson parents has set up a googlegroup to communicate, collaborate and help support schools reopen safely, at Emerson and beyond. There are many community members involved, many updates and important work ahead. If you would like to learn more and get involved, please click on this link and send a request to join.

Hope to hear from you,

Reopening Work Group Members

CHECK OUT THE “DAD’S PAD”   

The “Dad’s Pad” is a new offering by the BUSD Office of Family Engagement & Equity. This group will be an exciting space for African American fathers and father figures to regularly come together, under the Leadership of Dr. Khalid White, to build community in an empowering space. Please sign up now if you are interested.

ZOOM FRIENDLY RULE REMINDERS

  1.  Be prepared for class by wearing clothes, putting away toys and ready to participate

  2.  Be aware of your surroundings- remember your teacher and class can see behind you. Try to find a quiet place to join the Zoom meeting.

  3. Mute yourself when you enter the meeting use the microphone bottom and wait for the teacher to call on you to unmute.

  4. Raise your hand and wait for the teacher to call on you- take turns and practice being patient. 

  5. Be respectful- contribute to class positively and be a Zoom leader by participating responsibly.

Find Emerson Online

Website: emerson.berkeleypta.org

Remind: Text @7f6hb to 81010; or go to www.remind.com/join/7f6hb

Facebook: www.facebook.com/emersonpta (or follow @emersonPTA)

About BearFacts News:
BearFacts News is a weekly publication created by parent volunteers. Typically, it is distributed each Thursday in students' Look Folders and posted online at emerson.berkeleypta.org. During Distance Learning, it is only posted on the website.

BearFacts articles and calendar items are based on submissions from the community and reviewed and edited under the PTA communication policy.  Inclusion of an item in BearFacts by itself does not indicate sponsorship or endorsement by the PTA, Emerson school staff, or BUSD.

If you have a news item or announcement to include in the BearFacts News, please send an email to emersonschoolnews@gmail.com. Please keep your message brief and include all the pertinent details including dates, times, locations and contact information. The deadline is each Monday at 6 p.m.

Copyright © 2020. Emerson Elementary PTA. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
2800 Forest Ave.
Berkeley, CA  94705

BearFacts News - 2.25.2021

Emerson header

Si tiene alguna duda sobre esta nota debido a la traduccion,
por favor comuniquese con Rafael Friedmann via email: rfriedmann@aol.com

 

Message from the Principal

Dear Emerson Families,

I hope this message finds you healthy and enjoying some Spring sunshine. With the month of February drawing to a close, the second trimester is finishing up. This seems like an opportune time to look back at all we have accomplished this Fall and Spring. We have pivoted so much this year, all while keeping the Heart of Emerson alive. We continue to offer the students a strong education, while supporting their social and emotional growth.  With an eye on diversity and inclusion, we have celebrated Cultural Events, held Student Rewards such as the Petting Zoo and Body Break, distributed lots of Books and Materials, and kept the Rainbow Fridays and Black Lives Matter in the forefront.  Although we recognize nothing can replace the power of being in person together, I hope you will acknowledge that we have put our best foot forward for our students. 

We are encouraged that the Emerson staff have begun to receive their Covid vaccinations in partnership with the CIty of Berkeley.  The negotiations to finalize the plan to return to school in a Hybrid model continue.  The in-person target date for Kinder, 1st and 2nd Grades is Monday, March 29.  After Spring Break, Grades 3- 5 are expected on Monday, April 12. If this changes I will let you know. 

At this time, we do not know what the daily hybrid student schedule will look like.  Once I know, I will get the information to you and set up an Emerson Community Parent Meeting. During the Parent Meeting we will review the procedures and processes involved in transitioning back to campus. This way you will be able to talk to your child to prepare them for the expectations. We will need to partner in this. Many things will be different.

During the hybrid schedule we do know that students will be on campus for either a Monday and Tuesday block or a Thursday and Friday block, with Wednesdays remaining distance learning.  Parents will need to document their student’s health (attestation) each morning prior to school arrival. Once on campus, staff will check students, ensuring the health check was completed by parents and that the student is not symptomatic.  Parents will not be allowed to go into the school.  Students will be expected to wear a mask, social distance and remain in stable cohorts while on campus.   

The choice to send your child in person or continue in distance learning is yours.  We will ask for your final decision once we have a finalized plan. 

There will be a lot to discuss and sort out in the coming weeks, but it will be worth it.  It will be so nice to see the students we have missed so much.  I am confident that we can work together to make sure we are all safe and that the students get the education they so deserve.

I am thankful for you and your ongoing support.  Thank you for your patience and all you do for the Emerson community and your own family.

Sincerely, 
Jana Holmes

Upcoming Events and Key Dates

Wednesday, Mar 3, 7:00 - 8:00PM: Queer Family Gathering (Allies Welcome!)

Friday, Mar 5, 9:00AM: All School Meeting

Wednesday, Mar 10: Spirit Day

Friday, Mar 12 - Sunday, Mar 21: Emerson’s 2021 Read-a-Thon (see note below)

Tuesday, Mar 16, 23, 30: Spring Equity Circles

Find more dates/details: emerson.berkeleypta.org/calendar

Note to Readers: BearFacts articles and calendar items are based on submissions from the community and reviewed and edited under the PTA communication policy.  Inclusion of an item in BearFacts by itself does not indicate sponsorship or endorsement by the PTA, Emerson school staff, or BUSD.

February Shout Outs

Hello, Emerson Community! We want to celebrate and congratulate our February Shout Out Students! Please check out this Flipgrid to see special video shout outs from your teachers. https://flipgrid.com/+februaryshoutouts

As always, have a fine, fine day!

Shout out - k-3.png
Shout out - 4-5.png

The Read-a-Thon is Coming!

The Emerson Read-A-Thon is a school-wide celebration of reading! Beginning March 12th through the 21st, we spotlight the power of reading, providing an opportunity for students and their families to focus on books and read together, with a little competition sprinkled in! We’re using a new platform this year called 99Pledges to help us collect pledges during this time of Covid-distancing. More information will be mailed home to each student next week.

More Paper for your Art Kits

Depending on when your library bag pick up day is, you may have already received, or you will soon receive, more paper for art projects. Upper grades are also getting some more specialty supplies for future art projects. Please put any paper and supplies you get into your art kits so you will have what you need for your next art class.

Spring Equity Circle Registration - Now Open

This year’s Spring Equity Circle registration is now open, and we invite all families to join us. Find more information and the link to sign up at:https://emerson.berkeleypta.org/equity.

Reopening WorkING GROUP

A group of Emerson parents has set up a googlegroup to communicate, collaborate and help support schools reopen safely, Emerson and beyond. There are many community members involved, many updates and important work ahead. If you would like to learn more and get involved, please click on this link and send a request to join.

Hope to hear from you,

Reopening Work Group Members

CHECK OUT THE “DAD’S PAD”   

The “Dad’s Pad” is a new offering by the BUSD Office of Family Engagement & Equity. This group will be an exciting space for African American fathers and father figures to regularly come together, under the Leadership of Dr. Khalid White, to build community in an empowering space. Please sign up now if you are interested.

ZOOM FRIENDLY RULE REMINDERS

  1.  Be prepared for class by wearing clothes, putting away toys and ready to participate

  2.  Be aware of your surroundings- remember your teacher and class can see behind you. Try to find a quiet place to join the Zoom meeting.

  3. Mute yourself when you enter the meeting use the microphone bottom and wait for the teacher to call on you to unmute.

  4. Raise your hand and wait for the teacher to call on you- take turns and practice being patient. 

  5. Be respectful- contribute to class positively and be a Zoom leader by participating responsibly.

Find Emerson Online

Website: emerson.berkeleypta.org

Remind: Text @7f6hb to 81010; or go to www.remind.com/join/7f6hb

Facebook: www.facebook.com/emersonpta (or follow @emersonPTA)

About BearFacts News:
BearFacts News is a weekly publication created by parent volunteers. Typically, it is distributed each Thursday in students' Look Folders and posted online at emerson.berkeleypta.org. During Distance Learning, it is only posted on the website.

BearFacts articles and calendar items are based on submissions from the community and reviewed and edited under the PTA communication policy.  Inclusion of an item in BearFacts by itself does not indicate sponsorship or endorsement by the PTA, Emerson school staff, or BUSD.

If you have a news item or announcement to include in the BearFacts News, please send an email to emersonschoolnews@gmail.com. Please keep your message brief and include all the pertinent details including dates, times, locations and contact information. The deadline is each Monday at 6 p.m.

Copyright © 2020. Emerson Elementary PTA. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
2800 Forest Ave.
Berkeley, CA  94705

BearFacts News - 2.18.2021

Emerson header

Si tiene alguna duda sobre esta nota debido a la traduccion,
por favor comuniquese con Rafael Friedmann via email: rfriedmann@aol.com

 

Message from the Principal

Dear Emerson Families,

We are excited that a target date has been set for a return to in- person hybrid learning!  As the Superintendent announced on Tuesday evening, the projected start date for students in Grades Kindergarten through Second grade is Monday, March 20.  Students in grades Three through Five are to begin on Monday, April 12 (after Spring Break).  The details of the hybrid schedule are still being worked out and we thank those who completed the survey.  Once I have more information about the schedule and all the other details I will share them with you.  The good news is the light is at the end of the tunnel and we look forward to seeing your children on campus again. 

In addition, Emerson has been selected as a pilot site for a new Covid testing program, which the district may use to replace the current contract with Curative.  The new tests will be provided through a company called PMH Laboratories, Inc.  This test will be a self- administered nasal or mouth swab, supervised by a company provided Nurse.  This pilot may eventually lead to a partnership, which offers testing to BUSD students and staff.  

What we have done to prepare for a return to In Person Learning: Air purifiers are placed in each classroom, library and office space. The water faucets and paper towel dispensers throughout the school have been converted to touchless.  The office has been equipped with a plexi-glass barrier.  We have additional plexi- glass barriers to use at the school entry way for student and staff attestation.  Hand sanitizer stations are installed and available throughout the school.  We have PPE for students and staff who do not have their own. Social distance signs and markers are placed through the school. The School Safety plan is posted in the front office and is updated to reflect Covid requirements. 

What we are still working on: The PTA has agreed to use Covid relief funds to purchase additional items to support Emerson school reopening.  Some of the items include HEPA Air purifiers for bathrooms, canopies and shades for outside coverage, additional classroom and PE equipment, additional face shields for staff, hallway dividers for one way hallways, water bottles for students, another cot for the nurses’ area and a Ring doorbell/ camera for the front of the school.  

Sadly, I am announcing Ms. Anyea, Speech and Language Therapist, is on a leave from Emerson which we expect will last through the remainder of the school year.  We all value Ms. Anyea and will miss her.  We are expecting a replacement Speech Language Therapist to come on board with us Mid- March.  Please let me know if you have any questions. 

With PTA support, we have been able to schedule a special “Body Break Reward” for students on Wednesday, Feb. 24th for the 9:00 am meeting.  Ms. Alicia Langlais, M.S.Ed., M.A. is a trained dancer, who is inspired by African and Popular Dance moves. She will reward our students by teaching them some fun dance steps to get them up and moving.  

Thank you for your support and take care,

Jana Holmes 

Upcoming Events and Key Dates

Thursday Feb 18, 7:00 - 8:30PM: Racial Equity Conversation

Friday, Feb 19, 9:00AM: Black History Month All School Meeting

Monday, Feb 22, 6:00 -  7:00PM: BUSD Community Advisory Council (join meeting via Zoom)

Tuesday, Feb 23, 3:00 -  5:00PM: 4th & 5th grade Library distribution

Wednesday, Feb 24, 7:00 - 8:30PM: PTA Association meeting

Find more dates/details: emerson.berkeleypta.org/calendar

Note to Readers: BearFacts articles and calendar items are based on submissions from the community and reviewed and edited under the PTA communication policy.  Inclusion of an item in BearFacts by itself does not indicate sponsorship or endorsement by the PTA, Emerson school staff, or BUSD.

The Read-a-Thon is Coming!

The Emerson Read-A-Thon is a school-wide celebration of reading….and it’s coming March 3/12 - 3/21! Keep an eye out for more information in next week’s BearFacts!

Racial Equity Conversation

Please join us tonight (February 18 from 7-8:30pm) for this month’s equity conversation with Ms Pam, open to all families!

Black History Beyond February: Teaching all children the importance of black history, and why we celebrate all year long

Here’s the Zoom link and the Meeting ID: 832 6015 5614 Passcode: 915879

And don’t forget, this year’s Spring Equity Circle registration is now open, and we invite all families to join us. Find more information and the link to sign up at:https://emerson.berkeleypta.org/equity.

CHECK OUT THE “DAD’S PAD”   

The “Dad’s Pad” is a new offering by the BUSD Office of Family Engagement & Equity. This group will be an exciting space for African American fathers and father figures to regularly come together, under the Leadership of Dr. Khalid White, to build community in an empowering space. The first session is on Feb 23. Please sign up now if you are interested.

COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT PROJECT

The Community Empowerment Project is offering virtual sessions designed for families who identify as African American or Black and have a child with a developmental disability. Topics will help Black families access services for their family, especially during these trying times. For more information see this FLYER 

REMINDER: PLEASE COMPLETE THE FAMILY SURVEY

If you missed it, please take a moment to read Superintendent Dr. Stephens’ letter to families with a review of hybrid learning plans and an important family survey.

ZOOM FRIENDLY RULE REMINDERS

  1.  Be prepared for class by wearing clothes, putting away toys and ready to participate

  2.  Be aware of your surroundings- remember your teacher and class can see behind you. Try to find a quiet place to join the Zoom meeting.

  3. Mute yourself when you enter the meeting use the microphone bottom and wait for the teacher to call on you to unmute.

  4. Raise your hand and wait for the teacher to call on you- take turns and practice being patient. 

  5. Be respectful- contribute to class positively and be a Zoom leader by participating responsibly.

Find Emerson Online

Website: emerson.berkeleypta.org

Remind: Text @7f6hb to 81010; or go to www.remind.com/join/7f6hb

Facebook: www.facebook.com/emersonpta (or follow @emersonPTA)

About BearFacts News:
BearFacts News is a weekly publication created by parent volunteers. Typically, it is distributed each Thursday in students' Look Folders and posted online at emerson.berkeleypta.org. During Distance Learning, it is only posted on the website.

BearFacts articles and calendar items are based on submissions from the community and reviewed and edited under the PTA communication policy.  Inclusion of an item in BearFacts by itself does not indicate sponsorship or endorsement by the PTA, Emerson school staff, or BUSD.

If you have a news item or announcement to include in the BearFacts News, please send an email to emersonschoolnews@gmail.com. Please keep your message brief and include all the pertinent details including dates, times, locations and contact information. The deadline is each Monday at 6 p.m.

Copyright © 2020. Emerson Elementary PTA. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
2800 Forest Ave.
Berkeley, CA  94705

BearFacts News - 2.11.2021

Emerson header

Si tiene alguna duda sobre esta nota debido a la traduccion,
por favor comuniquese con Rafael Friedmann via email: rfriedmann@aol.com

 

Message from the Principal

Dear Emerson Families,

Happy Chinese New Year, also known more widely as the Lunar New Year!  During this time of year, many families throughout the world, including the United States, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Tibet, Macau, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam celebrate the New Year with varied traditions that center around family gatherings.  2021 is the year of the Ox, which signifies the admirable qualities of hard work, intelligence, and reliability without a need for praise.  If you are interested in learning more about the traditions and celebrations of the Lunar New Year, you may find some children friendly suggestions here.  

Here at Emerson we continue to prioritize our focus on Equity and Inclusion. If you would like to learn more about how to raise an empathetic child, who employs critical thinking and enjoys positive anti-biased relationships, consider joining the next PTA Equity Study Circle hosted by skilled educator Ms. Pamela Harrison Small.  As a former and ongoing participant, I can attest to how powerful and informative these circles are.  We are so fortunate to be able to offer the Emerson community the Equity Circles. We encourage you to take advantage of them. Save the date for the 8th Equity Circle beginning in March/April via Zoom, with more information to come. 

This past week, Alameda County announced COVID-19 vaccinations for education workers, who are part of the Phase 1B vaccination tier, may begin on February 8. County Superintendent of Schools L.K. Monroe stated, "This is an important step forward for our school communities. The Alameda County Office of Education is committed to supporting public health efforts to swiftly vaccinate education staff - teachers, classified staff and administrators - against COVID-19."  

In addition, our district is moving forward with plans to provide COVID testing to students. Once I have more information, I will share it with you. 

As this pandemic drags on, we find ourselves in the long dark winter that so many predicted.  This situation is really hard for everyone, including students, staff and parents.  Let us remember that we are a community, and although we have differing opinions and perspectives we must not lose our compassion for each other.   Let us continue to find ways to build bridges and support each other.  I am grateful for the Hearts on the Emerson fence. This project is a symbol of our teamwork because it was made possible through the collaboration of parents, students and staff.  If you haven’t had a chance to see it yet, take a look at the picture below.  It reminds us why Emerson is such a special place: we are a unique, caring and inclusive community that builds strong educated children.  Thank you for all you do for our students.

Take good care,

Jana Holmes

Upcoming Events and Key Dates

Thursday, Feb 11: Superintendent’s Town Hall on Reopening Schools (see below for Zoom link)

Friday, Feb 12: Lincoln’s Birthday, NO SCHOOL for students

Monday, Feb 15: Presidents’ Day, NO SCHOOL for students

Tuesday, Feb 16, 3:00 -  5:00PM: 2nd & 3rd grade Library distribution

Tuesday, Feb 16, 6:00 - 7:00PM: Black Parent & Principal Learning Circle

Wednesday, Feb 17, 5:30 - 7:00PM: School Site Council Meeting

Thursday Feb 18, 7:00PM: Racial Equity Discussion

Friday, Feb 19, 9:00AM: Black History Month All School Meeting

Tuesday, Feb 23, 3:00 -  5:00PM: 4th & 5th grade Library distribution

Wednesday, Feb 24, 7:00 - 8:30PM: PTA Association meeting

Find more dates/details: emerson.berkeleypta.org/calendar

Note to Readers: BearFacts articles and calendar items are based on submissions from the community and reviewed and edited under the PTA communication policy.  Inclusion of an item in BearFacts by itself does not indicate sponsorship or endorsement by the PTA, Emerson school staff, or BUSD.

Emerson playground PPE

Just a reminder that according to Health Regulations, you must wear a mask while on the Emerson playground. Thank you for helping keep our Emerson community safe!

Superintendent's Town Hall on Reopening Schools

Dr. Stephens will offer more information at another Town Hall at 7:00 pm on Thursday, February 11th.  We hope you can join via Zoom or watch on the BUSD YouTube channel.

HeART PROJECT ON THE FENCE  

We are still collecting hearts for the fence outside Emerson! Return your student’s artwork next time you swing by Emerson for a materials pick-up or library book return, or send by mail to Emerson Heart Project, 2800 Forest Ave, Berkeley, CA, 94705. Art should be 4” wide x 6” tall, so we can laminate and protect it from the elements.

bearfacts pic.jpg

We're looking for Spring Enrichment Recommendations...

In this era of zoom learning, we are looking for recommendations for fun and engaging after school enrichment classes that other Emerson students might enjoy. We're collecting a list to share with Emerson families along with the Spring 2021 BUSD catalog of online enrichment classes. 

Please send ideas and recommendations to: emersonenrichment@gmail.com.
Thanks!

CHECK OUT COACH ROBINSON’S NEW PE WEBSITE

The website is full of health and fitness tips and includes links to videos. Bookmark it and check back often - it’s a work-in-progress and more material is being added. Let's stay healthy together!

https://sites.google.com/berkeley.net/emersonpe

ZOOM FRIENDLY RULE REMINDERS

  1.  Be prepared for class by wearing clothes, putting away toys and ready to participate

  2.  Be aware of your surroundings- remember your teacher and class can see behind you. Try to find a quiet place to join the Zoom meeting.

  3. Mute yourself when you enter the meeting use the microphone bottom and wait for the teacher to call on you to unmute.

  4. Raise your hand and wait for the teacher to call on you- take turns and practice being patient. 

  5. Be respectful- contribute to class positively and be a Zoom leader by participating responsibly.

Find Emerson Online

Website: emerson.berkeleypta.org

Remind: Text @7f6hb to 81010; or go to www.remind.com/join/7f6hb

Facebook: www.facebook.com/emersonpta (or follow @emersonPTA)

About BearFacts News:
BearFacts News is a weekly publication created by parent volunteers. Typically, it is distributed each Thursday in students' Look Folders and posted online at emerson.berkeleypta.org. During Distance Learning, it is only posted on the website.

BearFacts articles and calendar items are based on submissions from the community and reviewed and edited under the PTA communication policy.  Inclusion of an item in BearFacts by itself does not indicate sponsorship or endorsement by the PTA, Emerson school staff, or BUSD.

If you have a news item or announcement to include in the BearFacts News, please send an email to emersonschoolnews@gmail.com. Please keep your message brief and include all the pertinent details including dates, times, locations and contact information. The deadline is each Monday at 6 p.m.

Copyright © 2020. Emerson Elementary PTA. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
2800 Forest Ave.
Berkeley, CA  94705

BearFacts News - 2.04.2021

Emerson header

Si tiene alguna duda sobre esta nota debido a la traduccion,
por favor comuniquese con Rafael Friedmann via email: rfriedmann@aol.com

 

Message from the Principal

Dear Emerson Families,

Welcome to February, the shortest month of the year, often considered the last month of Winter. We have lots to celebrate, including Groundhog Day, Presidents Day weekend, Valentines Day, and Black History. All week we placed a special emphasis on Black Lives Matter, and tomorrow during our All School Meeting we will continue our reflection on the challenges and accomplishments of our African American community.  We are so grateful for the many student performances we receive and we look forward to highlighting our youth with Shout Outs and recognitions- please join us as we usher in a new month.

If you had a chance to listen in to the Superintendent’s State of the Union address, followed by the Parent TownHall you will see that the viewpoints and perspectives about how to safely reopen our schools remain varied. You have probably seen the BFT position, here: http://berkeleyteachers.org/resource/community-faq-about-reopening-schools-person-instruction. My understanding is the BUSD PTA Council may be creating a position statement as well. District leadership is committed to reopening safely once we are permitted to do so and collective bargaining agreements are completed.

In terms of vaccines, we should register with California’s pilot program at https://myturn.ca.gov/screening, a central hub we can learn when we are eligible for vaccines and schedule appointments. At this time, Covid vaccines are not coordinated for staff, students, or families by BUSD. 

At Emerson, we have now received Air Purifiers for the majority of classrooms and offices, with five more delivered last week. In addition, the district has contracted to install new HEPA air filters in each passive ventilation system. School staff has reviewed a list of additional items to be purchased for school safety, which has been priced out, itemized, and submitted to the PTA.  After PTA review and approval, the Office staff and I will begin ordering the supplemental supplies. Shout out to Ms. Leah Lopez, Office Assistant, for all her hard work researching and pricing these items! Our goal is to return to campus in the safest way possible for all students and staff.

Thanks to Ms. Rachel, Librarian, the Library Book distribution is returning this month.  Distributions for Kindergartners and 1st graders are from 3-5 pm on Tuesday the 9th. During our Room Parent meeting last week, we discussed a need for parent volunteers to drop off materials to families who are unable to make it to the school during distribution.  Please be on the lookup for a signup document from your Room Parent if you can volunteer to help with home deliveries. 

As a friendly reminder, please don’t forget to turn in your Admissions paperwork for incoming Kindergarten and Middle Schooler students.  Registration forms are due to the district office by February 5, 20201. You may refer to the BUSD Admissions page for more information at https://www.berkeleyschools.net/admissions. 

Take good care,

Jana Holmes


Upcoming Events and Key Dates

Friday, Feb 5, 9:00AM: All School Meeting

Tuesday, Feb 9, 3:00 -  5:00PM: K & 1st grade Library distribution

Friday, Feb 12: Lincoln’s Birthday, NO SCHOOL for students

Monday, Feb 15: Presidents’ Day, NO SCHOOL for students

Tuesday, Feb 16, 3:00 -  5:00PM: 2nd & 3rd grade Library distribution

Tuesday, Feb 16, 6:00 - 7:00PM: Black Parent & Principal Learning Circle

Wednesday, Feb17, 5:30 - 7:00PM: School Site Council Meeting

Thursday Feb 18, 7:00PM: Racial Equity Discussion

Friday, Feb 19, 9:00AM: Black History Month All School Meeting

Tuesday, Feb 23, 3:00 -  5:00PM: 4th & 5th grade Library distribution

Wednesday, Feb 24, 7:00 - 8:30PM: PTA Association meeting

Find more dates/details: emerson.berkeleypta.org/calendar

Note to Readers: BearFacts articles and calendar items are based on submissions from the community and reviewed and edited under the PTA communication policy.  Inclusion of an item in BearFacts by itself does not indicate sponsorship or endorsement by the PTA, Emerson school staff, or BUSD.

BLM@SCHOOL WEEK RESOURCES

We have been celebrating, educating, and discussing the Black Lives Matter movement as part of BLM@School this week. Teachers are covering content in class, so be ready to discuss with your students. Here are some great resources to keep the conversations going!

‘Open Schools’ Convention

Date: Sat., Feb. 6, 12:00 Noon. Place: MLK Jr. Civic Center Park, 2151 MLK Jr. Way, Berkeley.

Students, parents, allies and supporters of opening schools for live in-person instruction here in Berkeley, and across California, will gather to hear updates and organize for action.

More information: https://www.busdparents.com/event-details/open-schools-convention

HeART PROJECT ON THE FENCE  

We are still collecting hearts for the fence outside Emerson! Return your student’s artwork next time you swing by Emerson for a materials pick-up or library book return, or send by mail to Emerson Heart Project, 2800 Forest Ave, Berkeley, CA, 94705. Art should be 4” wide x 6” tall, so we can laminate and protect it from the elements.

bearfacts pic.jpg

We're looking for Spring Enrichment Recommendations...

In this era of zoom learning, we are looking for recommendations for fun and engaging after school enrichment classes that other Emerson students might enjoy. We're collecting a list to share with Emerson families along with the Spring 2021 BUSD catalog of online enrichment classes. 

Please send ideas and recommendations to: emersonenrichment@gmail.com.
Thanks!

CHECK OUT COACH ROBINSON’S NEW PE WEBSITE

The website is full of health and fitness tips and includes links to videos. Bookmark it and check back often - it’s a work-in-progress and more material is being added. Let's stay healthy together!

https://sites.google.com/berkeley.net/emersonpe

ZOOM FRIENDLY RULE REMINDERS

  1.  Be prepared for class by wearing clothes, putting away toys and ready to participate

  2.  Be aware of your surroundings- remember your teacher and class can see behind you. Try to find a quiet place to join the Zoom meeting.

  3. Mute yourself when you enter the meeting use the microphone bottom and wait for the teacher to call on you to unmute.

  4. Raise your hand and wait for the teacher to call on you- take turns and practice being patient. 

  5. Be respectful- contribute to class positively and be a Zoom leader by participating responsibly.

Find Emerson Online

Website: emerson.berkeleypta.org

Remind: Text @7f6hb to 81010; or go to www.remind.com/join/7f6hb

Facebook: www.facebook.com/emersonpta (or follow @emersonPTA)

About BearFacts News:
BearFacts News is a weekly publication created by parent volunteers. Typically, it is distributed each Thursday in students' Look Folders and posted online at emerson.berkeleypta.org. During Distance Learning, it is only posted on the website.

BearFacts articles and calendar items are based on submissions from the community and reviewed and edited under the PTA communication policy.  Inclusion of an item in BearFacts by itself does not indicate sponsorship or endorsement by the PTA, Emerson school staff, or BUSD.

If you have a news item or announcement to include in the BearFacts News, please send an email to emersonschoolnews@gmail.com. Please keep your message brief and include all the pertinent details including dates, times, locations and contact information. The deadline is each Monday at 6 p.m.

Copyright © 2020. Emerson Elementary PTA. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
2800 Forest Ave.
Berkeley, CA  94705

BearFacts News - 1.28.2021

Emerson header

Si tiene alguna duda sobre esta nota debido a la traduccion,
por favor comuniquese con Rafael Friedmann via email: rfriedmann@aol.com

 

Message from the Principal

Dear Emerson Community,

We are proud that Emerson was highlighted in the Superintendent’s State of the District address this week. As you know, we are committed to the Emerson Way: educating our students with high expectations, while nurturing their social and emotional growth. In addition, our staff conducts all their work with a lens of equity and inclusion. We are excited about next week’s continued exploration of social justice, anti-racism, and celebration during Black Lives Matter week. We are pleased that The Berkeley Unified School Board has designated the first week of February as Black Lives Matter week. The teachers are preparing lessons to explore these themes with the students, and I am preparing a special BLM message for the All School Meeting on Friday, February 5. If you are interested in supporting these efforts at home, here are some resources: 

Black Lives Matter Book List, curated by BUSD Library Services:

Kid-friendly version of the 13 Principles

Talking with young children about race

If you would like to learn more about how to raise an empathetic child who employs critical thinking and enjoys positive anti- biased relationships, consider joining the next PTA Equity Study Circle hosted by skilled educator Ms. Pamela Harrison Small. As a former and ongoing participant, I can attest to how powerful and informative these circles are. We are so fortunate to be able to offer the Emerson community the Equity Circles. We encourage you to take advantage of them. Save the date for our next group, beginning in March/April, with more information to come. 

Last week, the state of California launched a new website about school reopening. The website includes information about the state’s new “In-Person Instruction” grant, revised school reopening guidelines for schools, and updated requirements for schools. At this point, BUSDs top challenges are receiving clearance from the state health agencies to begin the phased reopening and securing a bargaining agreement with the four labor partners collectives. For more information about the district reopening progress, please visit presentation to the School Board on the 20th. It is noteworthy that the Emerson staff, along with all BUSD staff, are now provided with Covid testing every other week. In addition, the Board of Education recently approved a partner to provide COVID-19 testing to students when schools reopen. These are all important steps in the road to reopening.

As a friendly reminder, please don’t forget to turn in your Admissions paperwork for incoming Kindergarten and Middle Schooler students. Registration forms are due to the district office by February 5, 2021. You may refer to the BUSD Admissions page for more information at https://www.berkeleyschools.net/admissions. 

Thank you for your support and take good care,

Jana Holmes


Upcoming Events and Key Dates

Monday, Feb 1: Registration opens for parents to attend the March/April Racial Equity Circle.

Tuesday, Feb 2, 3:00 -  5:00PM: 4th &5th grade Library distribution

Wednesday, Feb 3, 7PM: Queer Family Meet-Up

Friday, Feb 5, 9:00AM: All School Meeting

Tuesday, Feb 9, 3:00 -  5:00PM: K & 1st grade Library distribution

Wednesday, Feb 10, 7:00 - 9:00 PM: PTA Association meeting

Friday, Feb 12: Lincoln’s Birthday, NO SCHOOL for students

Monday, Feb 15: Presidents’ Day, NO SCHOOL for students

Tuesday, Feb 16, 3:00 -  5:00PM: 2nd & 3rd grade Library distribution

Thursday Feb 18, 7PM: Racial Equity Discussion

Find more dates/details: emerson.berkeleypta.org/calendar

Note to Readers: BearFacts articles and calendar items are based on submissions from the community and reviewed and edited under the PTA communication policy.  Inclusion of an item in BearFacts by itself does not indicate sponsorship or endorsement by the PTA, Emerson school staff, or BUSD.

GET READY FOR BLM@SCHOOL WEEK

Emerson Families, join us as we celebrate, educate, and discuss the Black Lives Matter movement with the BLM@School Week Feb 1-5. Teachers will be covering content in class, so be ready to discuss with your students. Here are some great resources to get started!

HeART PROJECT ON THE FENCE  

We are still collecting hearts for the fence outside Emerson! Return your student’s artwork next time you swing by Emerson for a materials pick-up or library book return, or send by mail to Emerson Heart Project, 2800 Forest Ave, Berkeley, CA, 94705. Art should be 4” wide x 6” tall, so we can laminate and protect it from the elements.

bearfacts pic.jpg

QUEER FAMILY MEET UP

Queer families and our allies are welcome to enjoy a social hour with informal discussions of gender, parenting, and queer culture on Wednesday, February 3 at 7pm. All families are welcome - we’ll start this month with a children’s story! 

We're looking for Spring Enrichment Recommendations...

In this era of zoom learning, we are looking for recommendations for fun and engaging after school enrichment classes that other Emerson students might enjoy. We're collecting a list to share with Emerson families along with the Spring 2021 BUSD catalog of online enrichment classes. 

Please send ideas and recommendations to: emersonenrichment@gmail.com.
Thanks!

CHECK OUT COACH ROBINSON’S NEW PE WEBSITE

The website is full of health and fitness tips and includes links to videos. Bookmark it and check back often - it’s a work-in-progress and more material is being added. Let's stay healthy together!

https://sites.google.com/berkeley.net/emersonpe

Support Emerson PTA - BECOME A MEMBER TODAY!

The Emerson Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) brings together parents/guardians, teachers/staff and friends of Emerson to work for a positive school experience for all children at our school. As a member, you can vote on programming and spending decisions. Parents, guardians, extended family members or friends of all Emerson students are invited. Please renew membership every year. Please sign up ONLINE at https://emerson.berkeleypta.org/pta-membership. A donation of $10/person is suggested but NOT required. For questions, contact cluetters09@gmail.com.

ZOOM FRIENDLY RULE REMINDERS

  1.  Be prepared for class by wearing clothes, putting away toys and ready to participate

  2.  Be aware of your surroundings- remember your teacher and class can see behind you. Try to find a quiet place to join the Zoom meeting.

  3. Mute yourself when you enter the meeting use the microphone bottom and wait for the teacher to call on you to unmute.

  4. Raise your hand and wait for the teacher to call on you- take turns and practice being patient. 

  5. Be respectful- contribute to class positively and be a Zoom leader by participating responsibly.

Find Emerson Online

Website: emerson.berkeleypta.org

Remind: Text @7f6hb to 81010; or go to www.remind.com/join/7f6hb

Facebook: www.facebook.com/emersonpta (or follow @emersonPTA)

About BearFacts News:
BearFacts News is a weekly publication created by parent volunteers. Typically, it is distributed each Thursday in students' Look Folders and posted online at emerson.berkeleypta.org. During Distance Learning, it is only posted on the website.

BearFacts articles and calendar items are based on submissions from the community and reviewed and edited under the PTA communication policy.  Inclusion of an item in BearFacts by itself does not indicate sponsorship or endorsement by the PTA, Emerson school staff, or BUSD.

If you have a news item or announcement to include in the BearFacts News, please send an email to emersonschoolnews@gmail.com. Please keep your message brief and include all the pertinent details including dates, times, locations and contact information. The deadline is each Monday at 6 p.m.

Copyright © 2020. Emerson Elementary PTA. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
2800 Forest Ave.
Berkeley, CA  94705

BearFacts News - 1.21.2021

Emerson header

Si tiene alguna duda sobre esta nota debido a la traduccion,
por favor comuniquese con Rafael Friedmann via email: rfriedmann@aol.com

 

Message from the Principal

Dear Emerson Families,

I hope you have been enjoying the unseasonably warm weather.  As difficult as this pandemic has been, it is an opportunity to shift priorities, focus on what is truly important, and be thankful for what we have.  I am grateful for my family and the times we have together.  We have shifted from running around, frenziedly meeting many obligations, to simple pleasures such as taking walks, riding bikes, and cooking together. I hope you are finding joy in small pleasures. 

This week we welcome new leadership in the White House. Since I am writing this message prior to the transition, I do not know if it will be a peaceful or disrupted Inauguration Day.  As Black woman, I am extremely proud of my sorority sister, Berkeley’s very own, Vice-President-Elect Kamala Harris, as she steps into her groundbreaking role as the first woman of color to hold this position.  I am also expectant that President-Elect Joe Biden will be able to draw from his rich political and personal life experiences, his history as an ally and collaborator, to help heal this Country.  It’s no doubt that the road ahead is extremely challenging, but the possibility for a brighter future is finally here. 

With an extended shelter in place order, and new strains of the Corona virus found in the Bay Area we turn our attention to the vaccine. According to reports from last week, the Covid vaccine has been administered to approximately 889,000 people with a goal to reach a million adults who are 65 and over to receive it over this past weekend. It is reported the State of California has over 3 million doses, and 30% have been given out.  According to Governor Newsom, sites have been procured to help increase administration efficiency, including Disneyland, Dodger Stadium, and Cal Expo in Sacramento.  While we are still in the beginning stage of vaccination, the next phase, Tier B1 includes school staff, food industry, agricultural workers, and nonmedical first responders.  For more information about the vaccine roll-out please see https://covid19.ca.gov/vaccines.  

Please don’t forget to turn in your Admissions paperwork for incoming Kindergarten and Middle Schooler students.  Registration forms are due to the district office by February 5, 2021. You may refer to the BUSD Admissions page for more information at https://www.berkeleyschools.net/admissions. 

Here is some good news! A big special Shout Out and Thank You to the Emerson community — we have surpassed our Heart of Emerson goal of raising $110,000!  Thank you for recognizing the importance of our Art, PE, English Learner, Office Support, and Student Support programs.  Your vote of confidence means so much and we are beyond thrilled to plan for the 2021- 2022 school year, knowing that we can continue to provide the students in the best way possible.  Stay tuned for a special thank you t-shirt for every student in the school.  Also, be sure to keep an eye out for the students’ HeART work, hung on the fences, when you come to return your library books to the bins in the front of the school.  

Take good care and thank you for your support.

Jana Holmes 

Upcoming Events and Key Dates

Thursday, Jan 21: Racial Equity Discussion, 7-8:30pm

Monday, Jan 25: Staff Development Day, NO SCHOOL for students

Friday, Feb 12: Lincoln’s Birthday, NO SCHOOL for students

Monday, Feb 15: Presidents’ Day, NO SCHOOL for students

Find more dates/details: emerson.berkeleypta.org/calendar

Note to Readers: BearFacts articles and calendar items are based on submissions from the community and reviewed and edited under the PTA communication policy.  Inclusion of an item in BearFacts by itself does not indicate sponsorship or endorsement by the PTA, Emerson school staff, or BUSD.

Racial Equity Discussion TONIGHT: What to Do When the Dust Settles

We’re excited to host the next installment of Emerson’s Racial Equity Discussions this Thursday the 21st (tonight) at 7pm. Zoom link will be sent via Remind later this afternoon.

What to do when the dust settles: Healing after the whirlwind of conflicting emotional responses to American history in the making

This discussion will address how to provide context and opportunity for our children to address their emotions, support separating facts from misinformation, and react responsibly.

Green Program for 4th and 5th Graders

bearfacts1.7.2021.jpg

Check Out Coach Robinson’s New PE Website

The website is full of health and fitness tips and includes links to videos. Bookmark it and check back often - it’s a work-in-progress and more material is being added. Let's stay healthy together!

https://sites.google.com/berkeley.net/emersonpe

We're looking for Spring Enrichment Recommendations...

In this era of zoom learning, we are looking for recommendations for fun and engaging after school enrichment classes that other Emerson students might enjoy. We're collecting a list to share with Emerson families along with the Spring 2021 BUSD catalog of online enrichment classes. 

Please send ideas and recommendations to: emersonenrichment@gmail.com.
Thanks!

Thank you from the Heart of Emerson

Heart of Emerson Web Badge (no border).jpg

We did it together! We reached our donation goal for the Heart of Emerson fundraising campaign! Thank you Emerson families, staff, and community for being a part of the Heart of Emerson. Stay tuned for the Emerson PTA's announcement and school-wide gift (T-shirts for all students and staff).

Support Emerson PTA - BECOME A MEMBER TODAY!

The Emerson Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) brings together parents/guardians, teachers/staff and friends of Emerson to work for a positive school experience for all children at our school. As a member, you can vote on programming and spending decisions. Parents, guardians, extended family members or friends of all Emerson students are invited. Please renew membership every year. Please sign up ONLINE at https://emerson.berkeleypta.org/pta-membership. A donation of $10/person is suggested but NOT required. For questions, contact cluetters09@gmail.com.

ZOOM FRIENDLY RULE REMINDERS

  1.  Be prepared for class by wearing clothes, putting away toys and ready to participate

  2.  Be aware of your surroundings- remember your teacher and class can see behind you. Try to find a quiet place to join the Zoom meeting.

  3. Mute yourself when you enter the meeting use the microphone bottom and wait for the teacher to call on you to unmute.

  4. Raise your hand and wait for the teacher to call on you- take turns and practice being patient. 

  5. Be respectful- contribute to class positively and be a Zoom leader by participating responsibly.

Find Emerson Online

Website: emerson.berkeleypta.org

Remind: Text @7f6hb to 81010; or go to www.remind.com/join/7f6hb

Facebook: www.facebook.com/emersonpta (or follow @emersonPTA)

About BearFacts News:
BearFacts News is a weekly publication created by parent volunteers. Typically, it is distributed each Thursday in students' Look Folders and posted online at emerson.berkeleypta.org. During Distance Learning, it is only posted on the website.

BearFacts articles and calendar items are based on submissions from the community and reviewed and edited under the PTA communication policy.  Inclusion of an item in BearFacts by itself does not indicate sponsorship or endorsement by the PTA, Emerson school staff, or BUSD.

If you have a news item or announcement to include in the BearFacts News, please send an email to emersonschoolnews@gmail.com. Please keep your message brief and include all the pertinent details including dates, times, locations and contact information. The deadline is each Monday at 6 p.m.

Copyright © 2020. Emerson Elementary PTA. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
2800 Forest Ave.
Berkeley, CA  94705

BearFacts News - 1.14.2021

Emerson header

Si tiene alguna duda sobre esta nota debido a la traduccion,
por favor comuniquese con Rafael Friedmann via email: rfriedmann@aol.com

 

Message from the Principal

Dear Emerson Community,

Well, we had about 5 days in 2021 before a major crisis ensued.  The Insurrection at the Capitol was certainly another wake-up call that America is in turmoil and needs a great deal of intervention and healing.  It can be tough to know how to talk to our elementary students about these sensitive topics.  According to my experience and research, we can help by facilitating honest discussions with students that do not pass our adult burdens onto them.  It is important for us to create a safe environment for children’s questions to be asked and emotions to be expressed. At Emerson, we have ongoing conversations about social justice and equity that continue throughout the year.  And then we acknowledge these painful, yet teachable moments to promote critical thinking in ourselves and our youngest citizens.  If you tuned into the Principal’s Message during last week’s All School Meeting you would have heard that I attempted to do just that. In the months ahead we will continue to hold conversations addressing racism, civil rights, white privilege, and what it means to be an ally during our MLK Jr Assembly, Black Lives Matter week, and Black History Month Assembly and lessons. 

If you would like some resources to partner with the school in these courageous conversations here are some places you can start.  These are provided by our School-Based Therapist, Ms. Marlis Rosmark, and our Emerson PTA Equity Group:

- Sesame Street in Communities: 

https://sesamestreetincommunities.org/topics/traumatic-experiences/

- How to talk with your kids about the news: https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/news.html

- How to talk with your kids about difficult news by the American Psychological Association: https://www.apa.org/topics/talking-children

- Helping children cope with terrorism by the National Association of School Psychologists.

https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources-and-podcasts/school-climate-safety-and-crisis/mental-health-resources/war-and-terrorism/helping-children-cope-with-terrorism

-A link to the 13 Principles from Black Lives Matter that is elementary friendly 

-Embrace Race https://www.embracerace.org/

-Conscious Kid: https://www.instagram.com/theconsciouskid

We are extremely pleased by the enthusiasm shown from our Emerson students for the upcoming MLK Jr Holiday celebration.  We have over a dozen student submissions that we will present this Friday at 9:00 am during our All School Meeting.  We also look forward to learning more about the 1963 Children’s March from our School Librarian Ms. Rachel.  Thank you Ms. Melgoza, first-grade teacher, for helping us plan this event.  We hope you enjoy your long weekend as a time to reflect and recommit to creating a safe, equitable, and inclusive environment for all.  

Take good care,

Jana Holmes 

Upcoming Events and Key Dates

Friday, Jan 15: Dr Martin Luther King Jr All School Meeting, 9-9:45am

Monday, Jan 18: Dr Martin Luther King Jr Holiday, No school for students

Wednesday, Jan 20: She Persisted, Virtual Musical Event, 4-5 pm

Wednesday, Jan 20: School Site Council meeting, 5:30-7:00pm

Thursday, Jan 21: Racial Equity Discussion, 7-8:30pm

Monday, Jan 25: Staff Development Day, No school for students

Find more dates/details: emerson.berkeleypta.org/calendar

Congratulations to January Shoutouts

Hello, Emerson Community! We want to celebrate and congratulate our January Shout Out Students! Please check out this Flipgrid to see special video shout outs from your teachers. https://flipgrid.com/+januaryshoutouts

As always, have a fine, fine day!
Love, The Emerson Staff

Screen Shot 2021-01-10 at 9.48.08 PM.png
K-3 January Shout Outs.png
4, 5, P.E. January Shout Outs.png

She Persisted: The Musical — Special Field Trip with Guest Speaker

Next Wednesday, as many celebrate a day that will also be very special in Berkeley history as Kamala Harris, one of the city's own daughters, makes history in Washington D.C., BUSD students are welcome to a district-wide event organized by Willard Ambassadors.
BUSD students are invited to a special "virtual event" to watch the hit musical She Persisted with a very special BUSD-exclusive visit with its co-creator, writer and lyricist Adam Tobin. She Persisted is a story about women's rights, based on Chelsea Clinton’s best-selling book of the same name. A kid makes a trip to a Women's History Museum that soon turns into a time-traveling adventure. During her journey through time, she encounters many inspiring women who made history. Here is a website with more information about the play.
All students and teachers in BUSD are welcome. The watch party via Zoom will be on Inauguration Day, January 20th, 4-5pm, using this link: tinyurl.com/ShePersistedBUSD
Any questions, contact Emerson/Willard mama Michelle Hlubinka at binka@mit.edu

Green Program for 4th and 5th Graders

bearfacts1.7.2021.jpg

Check Out Coach Robinson’s New PE Website

The website is full of health and fitness tips and includes links to videos. Bookmark it and check back often - it’s a work-in-progress and more material is being added. Let's stay healthy together!

https://sites.google.com/berkeley.net/emersonpe

We're looking for Spring Enrichment Recommendations...

In this era of zoom learning, we are looking for recommendations for fun and engaging after school enrichment classes that other Emerson students might enjoy. We're collecting a list to share with Emerson families along with the Spring 2021 BUSD catalog of online enrichment classes. 

Please send ideas and recommendations to: emersonenrichment@gmail.com.
Thanks!

Thank you from the Heart of Emerson

Heart of Emerson Web Badge (no border).jpg

We did it together! We reached our donation goal for the Heart of Emerson fundraising campaign! Thank you Emerson families, staff, and community for being a part of the Heart of Emerson. Stay tuned for the Emerson PTA's announcement and school-wide gift (T-shirts for all students and staff).

Support Emerson PTA - BECOME A MEMBER TODAY!

The Emerson Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) brings together parents/guardians, teachers/staff and friends of Emerson to work for a positive school experience for all children at our school. As a member, you can vote on programming and spending decisions. Parents, guardians, extended family members or friends of all Emerson students are invited. Please renew membership every year. Please sign up ONLINE at https://emerson.berkeleypta.org/pta-membership. A donation of $10/person is suggested but NOT required. For questions, contact cluetters09@gmail.com.

ZOOM FRIENDLY RULE REMINDERS

  1.  Be prepared for class by wearing clothes, putting away toys and ready to participate

  2.  Be aware of your surroundings- remember your teacher and class can see behind you. Try to find a quiet place to join the Zoom meeting.

  3. Mute yourself when you enter the meeting use the microphone bottom and wait for the teacher to call on you to unmute.

  4. Raise your hand and wait for the teacher to call on you- take turns and practice being patient. 

  5. Be respectful- contribute to class positively and be a Zoom leader by participating responsibly.

Find Emerson Online

Website: emerson.berkeleypta.org

Remind: Text @7f6hb to 81010; or go to www.remind.com/join/7f6hb

Facebook: www.facebook.com/emersonpta (or follow @emersonPTA)

About BearFacts News:
BearFacts News is a weekly publication created by parent volunteers. Typically, it is distributed each Thursday in students' Look Folders and posted online at emerson.berkeleypta.org. During Distance Learning, it is only posted on the website.

If you have a news item or announcement to include in the BearFacts News, please send an email to emersonschoolnews@gmail.com. Please keep your message brief and include all the pertinent details including dates, times, locations and contact information. The deadline is each Monday at 6 p.m.

Copyright © 2020. Emerson Elementary PTA. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
2800 Forest Ave.
Berkeley, CA  94705

BearFacts News - 1.7.2021

Emerson header

Si tiene alguna duda sobre esta nota debido a la traduccion,
por favor comuniquese con Rafael Friedmann via email: rfriedmann@aol.com

 

Message from the Principal

Dear Emerson Families,

Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a safe and relaxing Winter Break.  My family celebrated Kwanzaa and we enjoyed many rich discussions centered on the holiday’s themes of collective commitments, creativity, and faith.  We looked back on the last year and recognized what is truly important: family, community, and gratefulness for what we have.  As good as it feels to turn the page away from 2020, I can’t help but anticipate that things may become more difficult before they get easier.  Despite all this, I continue to be extremely thankful for the Emerson community.   I know that we will push on, dedicating ourselves to nurturing and educating our cherished students in the safest manners possible.

We have reason to hope, with the release of the Covid 19 vaccine. Unfortunately, we anticipate there may be an infection surge with infection rates rising after holiday travel and gatherings.  The California State plan includes a proposal for school staff to be vaccinated in the next Tier 1B (approx 8 million people).  Although there are some mixed feelings surrounding the vaccine, this does bring us light at the end of the tunnel. According to Governor Newsom, 92% of the ICU hospital beds are filled in Northern California. In addition, a new more aggressive strain of the Covid 19 virus has been detected in Southern California. We need relief from this pandemic and believe it is coming.  You can stay up to date with Covid updates by visiting the https://covid19.ca.gov/state-dashboard/. 

You should have received a letter with an information packet from the school recently.  This mailing contains more information about Emerson’s Covid Liaison Team and how we are responding and preparing for the return of students to campus. Please take the time to read through the packet, which includes guides from the City of Berkeley Public Health.  If you have questions, please feel free to reach out to me.  

Believe it or not, January is a time to begin thinking about registration for next year.  The district Admissions staff are working remotely, so all enrollment will be done virtually.  The incoming Emerson Kindergarten Night Zoom is scheduled for January 12 at 7:00 pm.  Each Middle School will hold a  January Zoom information Night.  Elementary and Middle School preference forms are due between January 4 and February 5. Please visit the admissions website at www.berkeleyschools.net/admissions for the Middle School Zoom schedule, enrollment forms, and more information. Questions can be mailed to: www.berkeleyschools.net/admissions.

Good news: we are very close to meeting our Heart of Emerson Fundraising goal.  It’s not too late to contribute if you have not done so already.  Thank you for your participation with Coach’s Winter Break workouts.  We have received so many beautiful student HeART projects, which will be laminated and put up to decorate our playground fence.  It’s been so wonderful to see the support for our fabulous Art and PE programs, which are needed now more than ever.

Again, Happy New Year, and may this year bring us all health and peace.

Jana Holmes 

Upcoming Events and Key Dates

Thursday, Jan 7: Kindergarten Literacy Night, 5-6pm

Tuesday, Jan 12: Kindergarten Info Night, 7-8pm (for Zoom links go to www.berkeleyschools.net/admissions)

Friday, Jan 15: Dr Martin Luther King Jr All School Meeting, 9-9:45am

Monday, Jan 18: Dr Martin Luther King Jr Holiday, No school for students

Wednesday, Jan 20: School Site Council meeting, 5:30-7:00pm

Thursday, Jan 21: Racial Equity Discussion, 7-8:30pm

Monday, Jan 25: Staff Development Day, No school for students

Find more dates/details: emerson.berkeleypta.org/calendar

Green Program for 4th and 5th Graders

bearfacts1.7.2021.jpg

Check Out Coach Robinson’s New PE Website

The website is full of health and fitness tips and includes links to videos. Bookmark it and check back often - it’s a work-in-progress and more material is being added. Let's stay healthy together!

https://sites.google.com/berkeley.net/emersonpe

We're looking for Spring Enrichment Recommendations...

In this era of zoom learning, we are looking for recommendations for fun and engaging after school enrichment classes that other Emerson students might enjoy. We're collecting a list to share with Emerson families along with the Spring 2021 BUSD catalog of online enrichment classes. 

Please send ideas and recommendations to: emersonenrichment@gmail.com.
Thanks!

Thank you from the Heart of Emerson

Heart of Emerson Web Badge (no border).jpg

In only one month, the Heart of Emerson is at 85% of our dollar goal of $110,000! Thank you to teachers and staff, families, and each student. The support is inspiring and puts us in good shape for next year.

Please donate if you haven’t already. We are so close to our dollar goal, and participation counts, too!

More Heart of Emerson updates can be found here.

Another way to help: choose Emerson Elementary PTA as your Amazon Smile donation charity, and 0.5% of your purchase amount will be donated to Emerson. You must have an Amazon account, and use the smile.amazon.com link EACH time for the purchase to count towards Emerson. Click on this link to choose Emerson as your Amazon Smile charity.

Support Emerson PTA - BECOME A MEMBER TODAY!

The Emerson Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) brings together parents/guardians, teachers/staff and friends of Emerson to work for a positive school experience for all children at our school. As a member, you can vote on programming and spending decisions. Parents, guardians, extended family members or friends of all Emerson students are invited. Please renew membership every year. Please sign up ONLINE at https://emerson.berkeleypta.org/pta-membership. A donation of $10/person is suggested but NOT required. For questions, contact cluetters09@gmail.com.

ZOOM FRIENDLY RULE REMINDERS

  1.  Be prepared for class by wearing clothes, putting away toys and ready to participate

  2.  Be aware of your surroundings- remember your teacher and class can see behind you. Try to find a quiet place to join the Zoom meeting.

  3. Mute yourself when you enter the meeting use the microphone bottom and wait for the teacher to call on you to unmute.

  4. Raise your hand and wait for the teacher to call on you- take turns and practice being patient. 

  5. Be respectful- contribute to class positively and be a Zoom leader by participating responsibly.

Find Emerson Online

Website: emerson.berkeleypta.org

Remind: Text @7f6hb to 81010; or go to www.remind.com/join/7f6hb

Facebook: www.facebook.com/emersonpta (or follow @emersonPTA)

About BearFacts News:
BearFacts News is a weekly publication created by parent volunteers. Typically, it is distributed each Thursday in students' Look Folders and posted online at emerson.berkeleypta.org. During Distance Learning, it is only posted on the website.

If you have a news item or announcement to include in the BearFacts News, please send an email to emersonschoolnews@gmail.com. Please keep your message brief and include all the pertinent details including dates, times, locations and contact information. The deadline is each Monday at 6 p.m.

Copyright © 2020. Emerson Elementary PTA. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
2800 Forest Ave.
Berkeley, CA  94705

BearFacts News - 12.17.2020

Emerson header

Si tiene alguna duda sobre esta nota debido a la traduccion,
por favor comuniquese con Rafael Friedmann via email: rfriedmann@aol.com

 

Message from the Principal

Dear Emerson Families,

Happy Winter Break!  My hope is that your family is safe and ready to celebrate the holiday season in good health.  I want to thank you for your support of Emerson’s students, staff and parent community.  May 2021 brings increased health and peace for all.  

If you had an opportunity to visit the Emerson TownHall Meeting last week you learned we have formed an Emerson Covid Liaison Task Force that works with the City of Berkeley Health Department to address Covid cases. You will be receiving a mailing with more information about what you can expect from this team. The district has committed to transparency regarding positive cases of Covid 19 while respecting staff and students’ rights to patient and educational privacy. The district website publicly reports the number of positive Covid cases by site. These numbers are kept up to date and indicate that we have recently had a new case on campus.  This case did not affect any students but we want you to know this has occurred.  We wish our affected staff member a speedy recovery.  

You can refer to this site to learn about reported Covid cases on the Berkeley campuses: https://www.berkeleyschools.net/coronavirus/case-dashboard/ 

We are proud of the good work of the Berkeley Unified School Board in the renaming of Jefferson Elementary School.  This month, the school has been officially renamed Ruth Acty Elementary School.  The name changed followed an intensive community process triggered by the Black Lives Movement.  The new name recognizes an inspiring educator, who was the first Black teacher in Berkeley Unified School District, hired in 1943.  She was assigned to teach Kindergarten at Longfellow School, where 30% of the students were Black.  She went on to dedicate 50 years of her life to teaching students in Berkeley, from Kindergarten to Adult School.  She retired from BUSD in 1991 when she was 78.  For more information, visit this link: Ruth Acty School.

As a reward for the outstanding progress and contributions to our Heart of Emerson fundraising campaign, Coach Robinson will offer two Winter Workouts for the entire family.  Please join her on Monday, December 21, and Monday, December 28 at 9:00 am for a heart-healthy workout. Join her on her regular Zoom Link here.  Thankfully, we are well on the way to reaching our fundraising goal.  Please consider giving to help us close the remaining fundraising gap. The link to donate is here: https://emerson.berkeleypta.org/heart-of-emerson. 

When we return from Winter Break, the Gardening enrichment class will shift from Grades 3-5 to Kindergarten through 2nd grade.  Please check your homeroom teacher’s schedule for the changes.  We are excited for our younger students to have an opportunity to learn more about health, nutrition, and environmental science through the Gardening Program with Ms. Jeannette. 

The All School Meetings have been such a joy this school year!  We love promoting Rainbow Fridays, Classroom Shout Outs, and our amazing student performances.  During Winter Break, we encourage your child to create submissions for our two January All School Meetings.  The first meeting on Friday, January 8 will feature creative student performances of all types. Grades K-2 should email submissions to MollySalyk@berkeley.net and Grades 3-5 should email submissions to Loribarnes@berkeley.net. Submissions for the January 8 All School Meeting are due by Monday, January 4.  Don’t forget to complete the parent permission form.

The Friday, January 15 All School Meeting will celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. We want our meeting to include submissions from students. This could be a performance piece, 1-2 sentence video sharing why they celebrate MLK Jr, or a piece of art. If your student would like to participate, please email submissions to Ms. M at orianamelgoza@berkeley.net by Friday, January 8th.  Here is a flyer with more information about the MLK Jr Assembly. We will need your parent permission form.

Happy Holidays, 

Jana Holmes 

Upcoming Events and Key Dates

Thursday, Dec 17: Racial Equity Discussion - Having Hard Conversations about Race, 7:00pm - 8:30pm (details below)

Friday, Dec 18: Spirit Day - Wear Your Pajamas!

Monday, Dec 21 - Friday, Jan 1: Winter Recess Break, No School

Monday, Dec 21: Coach Robinson’s Winter Workout for the entire family, 9:00am (Zoom Link here)

Monday, Dec 28: Coach Robinson’s Winter Workout for the entire family, 9:00am (Zoom Link here)

Monday, Jan 4: School Resumes

Find more dates/details: emerson.berkeleypta.org/calendar

Congratulations to December’s Shout Outs!

Hello, Emerson Community! We want to celebrate and congratulate our December Shout Out Students! Please check out this Flipgrid to see special video shout outs from your teachers: https://flipgrid.com/+decembershoutouts

Dec shout out k-3.png
Dec shout out 4-5.png

Equity Corner - Tonight!

Having Hard Conversations about Race: The Practice

We've almost made it to the end of 2020, a year filled with so much hardship that it can be hard to put it into perspective. Many of us made commitments this year to stand up to injustice, speak out against racism, and work towards a world we dream about for our kids.

The Emerson community is committed to making our world more equitable and simple conversations with our communities can make a big difference. Join us tonight - Thurs. the 17th at 7pm as Ms. Pam leads us through "Having Hard Conversations about Race: the practice." Justice starts with all of us caring enough to stand up for what's right and showing our children how to be thoughtful citizens of the world.

Watch out for a Remind announcement this afternoon with the Zoom link!

Contact Viv (Ace, 4th) with questions: vivwhite@gmail.com 415-279-2932

Stay tuned for a Racial Equity Circle invitation for the Spring.

Check Out Coach Robinson’s New PE Website

The website is full of health and fitness tips and includes links to videos. Bookmark it and check back often - it’s a work-in-progress and more material is being added. Let's stay healthy together!

https://sites.google.com/berkeley.net/emersonpe

We're looking for Spring Enrichment Recommendations...

In this era of zoom learning, we are looking for recommendations for fun and engaging after school enrichment classes that other Emerson students might enjoy. We're collecting a list to share with Emerson families along with the Spring 2021 BUSD catalog of online enrichment classes. 

Please send ideas and recommendations to: emersonenrichment@gmail.com.
Thanks!

Thank you from the Heart of Emerson

Heart of Emerson Web Badge (no border).jpg

In only one month, the Heart of Emerson is at 85% of our dollar goal of $110,000! Thank you to teachers and staff, families, and each student. The support is inspiring and puts us in good shape for next year.

Please donate if you haven’t already. We are so close to our dollar goal, and participation counts, too!

More Heart of Emerson updates can be found here.

Another way to help: choose Emerson Elementary PTA as your Amazon Smile donation charity, and 0.5% of your purchase amount will be donated to Emerson. You must have an Amazon account, and use the smile.amazon.com link EACH time for the purchase to count towards Emerson. Click on this link to choose Emerson as your Amazon Smile charity.

Yearbook Planning

We still don’t have volunteers to help with the 2020/21 Emerson Yearbook. Is anyone interested in pulling something together? Perhaps a 5th grade parent who would like to assemble an abbreviated version for the graduating students, or anyone with ideas and bandwidth? We are happy to give you access to our existing yearbook platform, especially while there's plenty of time. Drop a note to Michelle (mfalise@gmail.com).

Support Emerson PTA - BECOME A MEMBER TODAY!

The Emerson Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) brings together parents/guardians, teachers/staff and friends of Emerson to work for a positive school experience for all children at our school. As a member, you can vote on programming and spending decisions. Parents, guardians, extended family members or friends of all Emerson students are invited. Please renew membership every year. Please sign up ONLINE at https://emerson.berkeleypta.org/pta-membership. A donation of $10/person is suggested but NOT required. For questions, contact cluetters09@gmail.com.

ZOOM FRIENDLY RULE REMINDERS

  1.  Be prepared for class by wearing clothes, putting away toys and ready to participate

  2.  Be aware of your surroundings- remember your teacher and class can see behind you. Try to find a quiet place to join the Zoom meeting.

  3. Mute yourself when you enter the meeting use the microphone bottom and wait for the teacher to call on you to unmute.

  4. Raise your hand and wait for the teacher to call on you- take turns and practice being patient. 

  5. Be respectful- contribute to class positively and be a Zoom leader by participating responsibly.

Find Emerson Online

Website: emerson.berkeleypta.org

Remind: Text @7f6hb to 81010; or go to www.remind.com/join/7f6hb

Facebook: www.facebook.com/emersonpta (or follow @emersonPTA)

About BearFacts News:
BearFacts News is a weekly publication created by parent volunteers. Typically, it is distributed each Thursday in students' Look Folders and posted online at emerson.berkeleypta.org. During Distance Learning, it is only posted on the website.

If you have a news item or announcement to include in the BearFacts News, please send an email to emersonschoolnews@gmail.com. Please keep your message brief and include all the pertinent details including dates, times, locations and contact information. The deadline is each Monday at 6 p.m.

Copyright © 2020. Emerson Elementary PTA. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
2800 Forest Ave.
Berkeley, CA  94705

BearFacts News - 12.10.2020

Emerson header

Si tiene alguna duda sobre esta nota debido a la traduccion,
por favor comuniquese con Rafael Friedmann via email: rfriedmann@aol.com

 

Message from the Principal

Dear Emerson Families,

Happy Holidays! I hope your family is safe and healthy. This is the time to be grateful for what we have and reflect before we start a new year. I am thankful for the Emerson community of students, parents, and staff.  The resilience demonstrated by our community is truly amazing. I am inspired by the many parent volunteers who have stepped up in many meaningful ways during these difficult times. Thank you for making space and time in your hearts for Emerson.

We continue to raise funds for the Heart of Emerson campaign.  Happily, we are well on our way to our goal.  Please consider donating to help us close the remaining fundraising gap.  We hope your child participates in Art class with Ms. Ames this week.  Your child is invited to create their HeART fixture to be included as a symbol of love on our school fence. We thank Ms. Ames for her skillful instruction, which encourages students to be creative and productive.  You are also invited and encouraged to participate in Coach Alessandra’s Winter Break family exercise sessions. This will be an excellent opportunity to emphasize fitness and stay connected as a community during the Winter Break. She will offer one session during each week of Winter Break- stay tuned for the Zoom links.  The Heart of Emerson fundraising campaign specifically supports our Art, PE, and English Learner programs. Your generosity also ensures our Office Assistance position continues. Your donation also supports funding for student field trips and class materials. Thank you for thinking of us during this giving season. The link to donate is here at:  https://emerson.berkeleypta.org/heart-of-emerson

As I’m sure you are aware, Covid 19 cases are dramatically rising in the Bay Area. There are significant concerns about the availability of ICU beds in local hospitals.  Therefore, a Stay at Homes order has been enacted by a coalition of Health Departments, which are expected to remain in place until at least early January.  At this time, we believe the Emerson playground can stay open during after school hours- if this changes we will let you know. 

Unfortunately, the target date of January 13, set by the BUSD School Board for a return to hybrid in-person seems increasingly unlikely.  The Stay At Home orders do not allow for in-person school programs to begin until we move from the Purple (most restrictive, widespread, tier) to the Red (Substantial) tier and remain there for four weeks.  At this time, the Alameda County Office of Education is not approving any waivers for Elementary Schools to open.  Superintendent Stephens is planning a Townhall to update us after Winter break.  In the meantime, I hope you and your family remain safe and healthy.  As always, I am available for questions and concerns.  You can reach me via email or my cell phone.

Take care and be safe,

Jana Holmes

Upcoming Events and Key Dates

Wednesday, Dec 16: Family Literacy Event, A Cozy Winter Story Time, 9:00am - 9:30am (details below)

Wednesday, Dec 16: School Site Council Meeting, 5:30pm

Thursday, Dec 17: Racial Equity Discussion - Having Hard Conversations about Race, 7:00pm - 8:30pm (details below)

Friday, Dec 18: Spirit and Pajama Day

Monday, Dec 21 - Friday, Jan 1: Winter Recess Break, No School

Find more dates/details: emerson.berkeleypta.org/calendar

We're looking for Spring Enrichment Recommendations...

In this era of zoom learning, we are looking for recommendations for fun and engaging after school enrichment classes that other Emerson students might enjoy. We're collecting a list to share with Emerson families along with the Spring 2021 BUSD catalog of online enrichment classes. 

Please send ideas and recommendations to: emersonenrichment@gmail.com.
Thanks!

Please join us for a special

Emerson Family Literacy Event!

A Cozy Winter Story Time

Featuring our favorite Berkeley Public Librarian, Mr. Michael

Date: Wednesday, December 16

Time: 9:00-9:30am

Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83614551216

*Packets of hot chocolate will be in your library book bags (see schedule below). Please save your hot chocolate for this special event.

Upcoming Library Book Bags Schedule:

2/3 - Tuesday, December 15, 3:00-5:00

Equity Corner

The Emerson Equity Team is happy to share some upcoming ways to work together and learn about racial equity in our school and beyond.

We welcome everyone to Monthly Racial Equity Discussions for the Emerson community on the 3rd Thursday of each month from 7-8:30pm. Our whole community is invited to have a facilitated discussion about racial equity with Ms. Pamela Small at these discussions (Zoom links to follow):

  • Dec 17: Having Hard Conversations about Race: the practice (just in time for the holidays!)

Stay tuned for a Racial Equity Circle invitation for the Spring.

Email us with any questions or ideas:
Kelly Shimoda (Winnie, 1st) kelly.shimoda@gmail.com
Viv White (Ace, 4th) vivwhite@gmail.com

Heart of Emerson Web Badge (no border).jpg

We are the Heart of Emerson! This year more than ever the Emerson PTA is depending on you AND your communities to reach our fundraising goal. More donations no matter what amount, from more people, so please share the Heart of Emerson with your friends and family during November Break. Look for our paper letter in the mail, with "heart" inside!

Please note that our Venmo account @EmersonPTA may ask for the last four digits of the account holder's phone. THIS IS 9291 and NOT the landline listed on the Emerson website.

Another way to help: choose Emerson Elementary PTA as your Amazon Smile donation charity, and 0.5% of your purchase amount will be donated to Emerson. You must have an Amazon account, and use the smile.amazon.com link EACH time for the purchase to count towards Emerson. Click on this link to choose Emerson as your Amazon Smile charity.

Virtual Small Group Tutoring

We are excited to offer small group tutoring during the last hour of the Emerson school day. The fourth grade has been piloting this new program and the students are using the time with a volunteer to check in on assignments and to practice new skills. For example, one group is learning sign language!

If you are interested in learning more, ask your teacher during your Parent Teacher conference or email Ms. Totten (taylortotten@berkeley.net).

Yearbook Planning

Currently there are no plans for a 2020/21 Emerson Yearbook. Is anyone interested in pulling something together? Perhaps a 5th grade parent who would like to assemble an abbreviated version for the graduating students, or anyone with ideas and bandwidth? We are happy to give you access to our existing yearbook platform, especially while there's plenty of time. Drop a note to Michelle (mfalise@gmail.com).

Support Emerson PTA - BECOME A MEMBER TODAY!

The Emerson Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) brings together parents/guardians, teachers/staff and friends of Emerson to work for a positive school experience for all children at our school. As a member, you can vote on programming and spending decisions. Parents, guardians, extended family members or friends of all Emerson students are invited. Please renew membership every year. Please sign up ONLINE at https://emerson.berkeleypta.org/pta-membership. A donation of $10/person is suggested but NOT required. For questions, contact cluetters09@gmail.com.

ZOOM FRIENDLY RULE REMINDERS

  1.  Be prepared for class by wearing clothes, putting away toys and ready to participate

  2.  Be aware of your surroundings- remember your teacher and class can see behind you. Try to find a quiet place to join the Zoom meeting.

  3. Mute yourself when you enter the meeting use the microphone bottom and wait for the teacher to call on you to unmute.

  4. Raise your hand and wait for the teacher to call on you- take turns and practice being patient. 

  5. Be respectful- contribute to class positively and be a Zoom leader by participating responsibly.

Find Emerson Online

Website: emerson.berkeleypta.org

Remind: Text @7f6hb to 81010; or go to www.remind.com/join/7f6hb

Facebook: www.facebook.com/emersonpta (or follow @emersonPTA)

About BearFacts News:
BearFacts News is a weekly publication created by parent volunteers. Typically, it is distributed each Thursday in students' Look Folders and posted online at emerson.berkeleypta.org. During Distance Learning, it is only posted on the website.

If you have a news item or announcement to include in the BearFacts News, please send an email to emersonschoolnews@gmail.com. Please keep your message brief and include all the pertinent details including dates, times, locations and contact information. The deadline is each Monday at 6 p.m.

Copyright © 2020. Emerson Elementary PTA. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
2800 Forest Ave.
Berkeley, CA  94705

BearFacts News - 12.03.2020

Emerson header

Si tiene alguna duda sobre esta nota debido a la traduccion,
por favor comuniquese con Rafael Friedmann via email: rfriedmann@aol.com

 

Message from the Principal

Dear Emerson Families,

Welcome back! We hope you enjoyed a safe Thanksgiving holiday with your family. We have lots planned for the three weeks leading up to Winter Break. Through distance learning, we are doing our best to keep the Spirit of Emerson alive. Our plan is to return in person, stronger than ever, knowing that we pulled together during these challenging times.

As you are probably aware, almost the entire state of California is experiencing rising COVID cases and we have returned to the Purple (widespread) most restrictive tier. This means that in-person learning can not take place until we return and remain in the Red (substantial) tier for at least two weeks. In the meantime, the district and our school site will continue preparations for a return to campus. Please join us next Tuesday, December 8 at 6:00 pm for an Emerson Town Hall meeting I will be hosting with the PTA Co-Presidents, and Emerson staff. We will provide an update from District and leave time for questions and concerns.  

I want to thank the PTA Equity Committee for their continued commitment to raising inclusion awareness in our community. You are invited to join us tonight, Thursday, December 3, at 6:00, for a workshop hosted by Emerson Parent, Sara, and Ms. M, first-grade teacher, on the topic of Gender Identity for students. You will be provided with resources and a thought-provoking discussion.  As a follow-up, join us on December 17, at 6:00 pm, when Ms. Pamela Small will guide us in a workshop around the Art of Having Hard Conversations about Race. Come learn and build an accepting community with us!

Come to the distribution of the materials, on Tuesdays from 3- 5 pm, this month to pick up your PTA donated cup of hot chocolate. This is to be enjoyed during our special holiday family literacy event on Wednesday, Dec. 16th. This event will take place during the 9 am morning meeting. Our hosts will be Ms. Jeannie Wang, Literary Coach, and Ms. Rachel Budge, our New Librarian.  A special guest appearance will be made by Mr. Michael from the City of Berkeley library.  Don’t miss this cozy storytime with a sweet treat, which will jump-start us into Winter Break! 

We understand that this pandemic and its continued stress can be difficult to manage.  We are pleased to announce that Ms. Marlies Rosmark, School-Based Therapist, is now offering a support group for single parents coping with the stress of COVID. This group will meet weekly in the late afternoon. If you are interested, please email mrosmark@bacr.org call or text 510- 559-3039.

The Heart of Emerson campaign is in full swing.  Please donate during this season of giving.  We need your support more than ever. We want to hold onto our full-time Art, PE, and Office Support positions for the 2021- 2022 school year, but without your donations, it may not be possible. Your contributions also go toward an expanded English Learner program, field trips for students, and teaching supplies for classrooms.  We hope you will give as generously as you can this month. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to Emerson. 

Sincerely,

Jana Holmes

Upcoming Events and Key Dates

Thursday, Dec 3: Let’s Talk Gender with Ms. Melgoza, 6:00pm - 7:00pm (details below)

Friday, Dec 4: All School Meeting, 9:00am

Tuesday, Dec 8: Emerson Town Hall Meeting to Discuss Reopening Plans, 6:00pm - 7:00pm (zoom link to follow)

Wednesday, Dec 16: Family Literacy Event, A Cozy Winter Story Time, 9:00am - 9:30am (details below)

Wednesday, Dec 16: School Site Council Meeting, 5:30pm

Thursday, Dec 17: Racial Equity Discussion - Having Hard Conversations about Race, 7:00pm - 8:30pm (details below)

Friday, Dec 18: Spirit and Pajama Day

Monday, Dec 21 - Friday, Jan 1: Winter Recess Break, No School

Find more dates/details: emerson.berkeleypta.org/calendar

PTA Equity Discussion:  Let’s Talk about Gender

Join the fabulous Ms. Melgoza, 1st grade teacher at Emerson, as she shares welcoming ways to talk with children about gender and identity.

Date: Thursday, Dec. 3

Time:  6:00 pm

Zoom link:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89622066741

Meeting ID: 896 2206 6741

Please join us for a special

Emerson Family Literacy Event!

A Cozy Winter Story Time

Featuring our favorite Berkeley Public Librarian, Mr. Michael

Date: Wednesday, December 16

Time: 9:00-9:30am

Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83614551216

*Packets of hot chocolate will be in your library book bags (see schedule below). Please save your hot chocolate for this special event.

Upcoming Library Book Bags Schedule:

4/5 - Tuesday, December 1, 3:00-5:00

K/1 - Tuesday, December 8, 3:00-5:00

2/3 - Tuesday, December 15, 3:00-5:00

Equity Corner

The Emerson Equity Team is happy to share some upcoming ways to work together and learn about racial equity in our school and beyond.

We welcome everyone to Monthly Racial Equity Discussions for the Emerson community on the 3rd Thursday of each month from 7-8:30pm. Our whole community is invited to have a facilitated discussion about racial equity with Ms. Pamela Small at these discussions (Zoom links to follow):

  • Dec 17: Having Hard Conversations about Race: the practice (just in time for the holidays!)

Stay tuned for a Racial Equity Circle invitation for the Spring.

Email us with any questions or ideas:
Kelly Shimoda (Winnie, 1st) kelly.shimoda@gmail.com
Viv White (Ace, 4th) vivwhite@gmail.com

Heart of Emerson Web Badge (no border).jpg

We are the Heart of Emerson! This year more than ever the Emerson PTA is depending on you AND your communities to reach our fundraising goal. More donations no matter what amount, from more people, so please share the Heart of Emerson with your friends and family during November Break. Look for our paper letter in the mail, with "heart" inside!

Please note that our Venmo account @EmersonPTA may ask for the last four digits of the account holder's phone. THIS IS 9291 and NOT the landline listed on the Emerson website.

Another way to help: choose Emerson Elementary PTA as your Amazon Smile donation charity, and 0.5% of your purchase amount will be donated to Emerson. You must have an Amazon account, and use the smile.amazon.com link EACH time for the purchase to count towards Emerson. Click on this link to choose Emerson as your Amazon Smile charity.

Virtual Small Group Tutoring

We are excited to offer small group tutoring during the last hour of the Emerson school day. The fourth grade has been piloting this new program and the students are using the time with a volunteer to check in on assignments and to practice new skills. For example, one group is learning sign language!

If you are interested in learning more, ask your teacher during your Parent Teacher conference or email Ms. Totten (taylortotten@berkeley.net).

Mrs. Dalloway’s Fundraiser Update - Thank You!

Thank you to the Emerson Community for supporting our November Mrs. Dalloway's Fundraiser! A grand total of $4,525.00 in gift certificates was purchased. Mrs. Dalloway's will donate 15% ($678.75) to Emerson!!!!

Thank you for your generosity!

Yearbook Planning

Currently there are no plans for a 2020/21 Emerson Yearbook. Is anyone interested in pulling something together? Perhaps a 5th grade parent who would like to assemble an abbreviated version for the graduating students, or anyone with ideas and bandwidth? We are happy to give you access to our existing yearbook platform, especially while there's plenty of time. Drop a note to Michelle (mfalise@gmail.com).

Support Emerson PTA - BECOME A MEMBER TODAY!

The Emerson Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) brings together parents/guardians, teachers/staff and friends of Emerson to work for a positive school experience for all children at our school. As a member, you can vote on programming and spending decisions. Parents, guardians, extended family members or friends of all Emerson students are invited. Please renew membership every year. Please sign up ONLINE at https://emerson.berkeleypta.org/pta-membership. A donation of $10/person is suggested but NOT required. For questions, contact cluetters09@gmail.com.

ZOOM FRIENDLY RULE REMINDERS

  1.  Be prepared for class by wearing clothes, putting away toys and ready to participate

  2.  Be aware of your surroundings- remember your teacher and class can see behind you. Try to find a quiet place to join the Zoom meeting.

  3. Mute yourself when you enter the meeting use the microphone bottom and wait for the teacher to call on you to unmute.

  4. Raise your hand and wait for the teacher to call on you- take turns and practice being patient. 

  5. Be respectful- contribute to class positively and be a Zoom leader by participating responsibly.

Find Emerson Online

Website: emerson.berkeleypta.org

Remind: Text @7f6hb to 81010; or go to www.remind.com/join/7f6hb

Facebook: www.facebook.com/emersonpta (or follow @emersonPTA)

About BearFacts News:
BearFacts News is a weekly publication created by parent volunteers. Typically, it is distributed each Thursday in students' Look Folders and posted online at emerson.berkeleypta.org. During Distance Learning, it is only posted on the website.

If you have a news item or announcement to include in the BearFacts News, please send an email to emersonschoolnews@gmail.com. Please keep your message brief and include all the pertinent details including dates, times, locations and contact information. The deadline is each Monday at 6 p.m.

Copyright © 2020. Emerson Elementary PTA. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
2800 Forest Ave.
Berkeley, CA  94705

BearFacts News - 11.19.2020

Emerson header

Si tiene alguna duda sobre esta nota debido a la traduccion,
por favor comuniquese con Rafael Friedmann via email: rfriedmann@aol.com

 

Message from the Principal

Dear Emerson Community,

As we prepare for Thanksgiving break, I want to express my gratitude for the parents, students, and staff at Emerson. I am inspired by this anonymous quote: “It’s not happiness that brings us gratitude. It's gratitude that brings us happiness.”  I am so thankful for the staff who tirelessly work to preserve and enhance the culture of Emerson, the parents who are juggling to support their children at home, and the students who are resilient and persistent.  My wish is for your family to be safe and well as we move through this holiday season.

Sadly, this week we see the uptick in the COVID infections statewide and we have moved back to the Purple (Widespread) tier.  This evening at 6:00 pm, we will learn more about the district and site plans for reopening at the Superintendent Town Hall for Elementary Parents. A Spanish Town Hall will follow at 7:00 pm. You can expect a survey requesting your input after the Town Hall, and we hope you will participate.

Also this evening, we invite you to join an Emerson Racial Equity Discussion, from 7:00 to 8:30 pm. This month’s topic is Black Lives Matter. Ms. Pamela Small, Consultant, will facilitate a discussion to enlighten us about the movement’s origin and why it is relevant to all our children, regardless of race. We are excited about this conversation and hope you will join us.  

We understand that this pandemic and its continued stress can be difficult to manage. We are pleased to announce that Ms. Marlies Rosmark, School-Based Therapist, is now offering a support group for single parents coping with the stress of COVID. This group will meet weekly in the late afternoon. If you are interested, please email mrosmark@bacr.org or call or text 510-559-3039.

We invite your student to submit a student performance for our next All School Meeting, which will be on Friday, Dec. 4. If your child creates a video of their talent over the Thanksgiving break, please email it to mollysalyk@berkeley.net (Kinder- 2nd) or loribarnes@berkeley.net (3-5th Grade). Don’t forget to complete and submit the parent permission form, which can be found here. The deadline for submissions is Monday, December 1. 

The Heart of Emerson Fundraising Campaign officially kicks off this week! We need your help- we are in dire financial shape- most of our typical fundraisers are not possible with distance learning. Your donations support vital student programs such as Art, PE, English Learners, office support, and supplies for teachers. In order to avoid making large cuts to the programs our students and families have come to enjoy and expect, we are asking that you donate what you can as soon as possible.

I hope you and your family have a safe and peaceful holiday.  Thank you for your continued support. 

Take care, 

Jana Holmes

Upcoming Events & Key Dates

Monday, Nov 16 - Friday, Nov 20: Parent/Teacher Conferences

Thursday, Nov 19: Town Hall for Elementary Schools with Superintendent Stephens, 6:00pm (details below)

Thursday, Nov 19: Black Lives Matter workshop (details below)

Friday, Nov 20: Schedule change - No School - Parent/Teacher Conferences

Monday, Nov 23 - Friday, Nov 27: No School - Thanksgiving holiday

Tuesday, Dec 1: Giving Tuesday - Heart of Emerson

Friday, Dec 4: All School Meeting, 9:00am

Find more dates/details: emerson.berkeleypta.org/calendar

Heart of Emerson Web Badge (no border).jpg

We are the Heart of Emerson! This year more than ever the Emerson PTA is depending on you AND your communities to reach our fundraising goal. More donations no matter what amount, from more people, so please share the Heart of Emerson with your friends and family during November Break. Look for our paper letter in the mail, with "heart" inside!

Please note that our Venmo account @EmersonPTA may ask for the last four digits of the account holder's phone. THIS IS 9291 and NOT the landline listed on the Emerson website.

Another way to help: choose Emerson Elementary PTA as your Amazon Smile donation charity, and 0.5% of your purchase amount will be donated to Emerson. You must have an Amazon account, and use the smile.amazon.com link EACH time for the purchase to count towards Emerson. Click on this link to choose Emerson as your Amazon Smile charity.

Virtual Small Group Tutoring

We are excited to offer small group tutoring during the last hour of the Emerson school day. The fourth grade has been piloting this new program and the students are using the time with a volunteer to check in on assignments and to practice new skills. For example, one group is learning sign language!

If you are interested in learning more, ask your teacher during your Parent Teacher conference or email Ms. Totten (taylortotten@berkeley.net).

November ‘Shout Outs’!

Hello, Emerson Community! We want to celebrate and congratulate our November Shout Out Students! Please check out this Flipgrid to see special video shout outs from your teachers. https://flipgrid.com/+novembershoutouts

As always, have a fine, fine day! 

Love, The Emerson Staff

Shout out.png
Shout Out 2.png

Town Hall Webinar: Reopening Elementary Schools
Join Superintendent Stephens for a Town Hall on reopening Elementary Schools. Begins at 6pm on Thursday, November 19th.

Zoom Link:
https://berkeley-net.zoom.us/j/87146007484?pwd=SWhpWnhZL0NNZVVpSEpqWlVnRC9CQT09
Passcode: 871357

Join by Phone:
16699006833
Webinar ID: 871 4600 7484
Passcode: 871357

Equity Corner:
The Emerson Equity Team is happy to share some upcoming ways to work together and learn about racial equity in our school and beyond.

We welcome everyone to Monthly Racial Equity Discussions for the Emerson community on the 3rd Thursday of each month from 7-8:30pm. Our whole community is invited to have a facilitated discussion about racial equity with Ms. Pamela Small at these discussions (Zoom links to follow):

  • Nov 19: Black Lives Matter. A workshop to help Emerson parents better understand the BLM movement, its origins, and why it is relevant to all of our children's lives, regardless of their race.

  • Dec 17: Having Hard Conversations about Race: the practice (just in time for the holidays!)

Stay tuned for a Racial Equity Circle invitation for the Spring.

Email us with any questions or ideas:
Kelly Shimoda (Winnie, 1st) kelly.shimoda@gmail.com
Viv White (Ace, 4th) vivwhite@gmail.com

Support Emerson PTA - BECOME A MEMBER TODAY!

The Emerson Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) brings together parents/guardians, teachers/staff and friends of Emerson to work for a positive school experience for all children at our school. As a member, you can vote on programming and spending decisions. Parents, guardians, extended family members or friends of all Emerson students are invited. Please renew membership every year. Please sign up ONLINE at https://emerson.berkeleypta.org/pta-membership. A donation of $10/person is suggested but NOT required. For questions, contact cluetters09@gmail.com.

ZOOM FRIENDLY RULE REMINDERS:

  1.  Be prepared for class by wearing clothes, putting away toys and ready to participate

  2.  Be aware of your surroundings- remember your teacher and class can see behind you. Try to find a quiet place to join the Zoom meeting.

  3. Mute yourself when you enter the meeting use the microphone bottom and wait for the teacher to call on you to unmute.

  4. Raise your hand and wait for the teacher to call on you- take turns and practice being patient. 

  5. Be respectful- contribute to class positively and be a Zoom leader by participating responsibly.

Find Emerson Online

Website: emerson.berkeleypta.org

Remind: Text @7f6hb to 81010; or go to www.remind.com/join/7f6hb

Facebook: www.facebook.com/emersonpta (or follow @emersonPTA)

About BearFacts News:
BearFacts News is a weekly publication created by parent volunteers. It is distributed each Thursday in students' Look Folders and via email. 

If you have a news item or announcement to include in the BearFacts News, please send an email to emersonschoolnews@gmail.com. Please keep your message brief and include all the pertinent details including dates, times, locations and contact information. The deadline is each Monday at 6 p.m.

Copyright © 2020. Emerson Elementary PTA. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
2800 Forest Ave.
Berkeley, CA  94705

BearFacts News - 11.12.2020

Emerson header

Si tiene alguna duda sobre esta nota debido a la traduccion,
por favor comuniquese con Rafael Friedmann via email: rfriedmann@aol.com

 

Message from the Principal

Dear Emerson Community,

Last weekend we witnessed history as Oakland born, Kamala Harris, became the first woman of color to be elected as Vice President of the United States.  We know that many in the Bay Area are extremely proud and have a shared connection to the Vice-President Elect because she attended Thousand Oaks Elementary School in Berkeley.  As a child of immigrant parents from India and Jamaica, we find inspiration in her accomplishments and celebrate her diverse background.   Kamala Harris represents a trailblazer who has demonstrated that young girls, of all backgrounds, can now strive to become President of the United States. 

Next week, November 16- 20, are Parent / Teacher conferences.  The first trimester is drawing to a close, and it’s time to schedule a meeting with your homeroom teacher to review report cards. Conference week is a time to check in with staff to discuss how your student is progressing academically and socially.  During the conference week, students will participate in morning meetings,  enrichment, and intervention classes only.  There is no school on Friday, November 20. 

The Superintendent is holding a Town Hall meeting for Elementary School parents on Tuesday, November 17 at 6:00 pm.  During this meeting, he will give an update about the district-wide phased elementary school reopening plans.  We encourage you to attend this informational meeting via Zoom (link to follow).  

We need your help.  We anticipate Emerson will face significant funding challenges for the 2020- 2021 school year.  Most of our typical fundraisers have been postponed or canceled.  In the past, the funding that we receive from the PTA supports Art, PE, and English Learner programs for all students.  Without your help, these programs may be cut back for 2020- 2021. If you are able, please contribute by purchasing gift certificates from Ms. Dalloways, a local Berkeley bookstore, between November 11- 14.  We will receive 15% of the proceeds.  You must be careful to indicate Emerson-Berkeley in the Order Comment Field at the bottom of the check-out page.  This is important because there is an Emerson Elementary in Oakland too.  This is a great opportunity to support Emerson and complete some early holiday shopping.  

The stress this pandemic continues to place upon our community is immeasurable.  School-based therapist Ms. Marlies Rosmark is currently facilitating a support group for parents who meet once a week.  If you are interested in joining the next session, which will run for about 6- 8 weeks, please contact her at mrosmark@bacr.org or 510-559-3039.  

As we enter the holiday season, I am reminded how grateful I am for our Emerson community. We hope you see the value of our dedicated staff, who have found ways to continue many of our Emerson traditions during distance learning including All School Meetings, Spirit Days, Special Events (such as the Petting Zoo Visit), Library book distribution, Rainbow Fridays and much more.  Emerson is a special place and we are grateful for your partnership. 

Take care, 

Jana Holmes

Upcoming Events & Key Dates

Wednesday, Nov 11: No School - Veterans Day

Wednesday, Nov 11 - Saturday, Nov 14: Mrs. Dalloway’s Fundraiser (details below)

Saturday, Nov 14: PTA Equity Retreat (details below)

Monday, Nov 16 - Friday, Nov 20: Parent/Teacher Conferences

Thursday, Nov 19: Town Hall for Elementary Schools with Superintendent Stephens, 6:00pm (details below)

Thursday, Nov 19: Black Lives Matter workshop (details below)

Friday, Nov 20: Schedule change - No School - Parent/Teacher Conferences

Monday, Nov 23 - Friday, Nov 27: No School - Thanksgiving holiday

Find more dates/details: emerson.berkeleypta.org/calendar

MRS. DALLOWAYS 12th ANNUAL SCHOOL BENEFIT FUNDRAISER

Wednesday - Saturday, Nov 11-14 - Online event. All day. All night. 4 days!

How it Works: Purchase gift certificates online from Mrs Dolloay’s Bookstore during our 4-day fundraiser, Nov 11-14 and Mrs. Dalloway’s will donate 15% of your purchase to Emerson-Elementary-Berkeley. Purchase as many gift certificates as you want, in any denomination, and redeem either online or in person (when the store reopens). Mrs. Dalloway's keeps a digital record of all gift certificates, and they never expire. Spread the word to your friends, neighbors, and out-of-town family. Anyone anywhere can participate and support our school.

IMPORTANT:

  • In order for your purchase to be counted, YOU MUST ENTER “Emerson - BERKELEY” IN THE ORDER COMMENTS FIELD at the bottom of the Checkout page. Please note there is an Emerson Elementary in Oakland so it it important to write “Emerson- BERKELEY”

  • Gift certificates MUST be purchased between November 11-14.

Click HERE to purchase gift certificates!

Mrs. Dalloway's School Fundraiser is an easy and safe way to raise money for your school!
Looking for gift ideas or book suggestions? Visit Mrs. Dalloway's website and check out our
Holiday Recommendations for Adults & Kids.

Questions? Contact info@mrsdalloways.com

Town Hall Webinar: Reopening Elementary Schools
Join Superintendent Stephens for a Town Hall on reopening Elementary Schools. Begins at 6pm on Thursday, November 19th.

Zoom Link:
https://berkeley-net.zoom.us/j/87146007484?pwd=SWhpWnhZL0NNZVVpSEpqWlVnRC9CQT09
Passcode: 871357

Join by Phone:
16699006833
Webinar ID: 871 4600 7484
Passcode: 871357

Equity Corner:
The Emerson Equity Team is happy to share some upcoming ways to work together and learn about racial equity in our school and beyond.

We welcome everyone to Monthly Racial Equity Discussions for the Emerson community on the 3rd Thursday of each month from 7-8:30pm. Our whole community is invited to have a facilitated discussion about racial equity with Ms. Pamela Small at these discussions (Zoom links to follow):

  • Nov 19: Black Lives Matter. A workshop to help Emerson parents better understand the BLM movement, its origins, and why it is relevant to all of our children's lives, regardless of their race.

  • Dec 17: Having Hard Conversations about Race: the practice (just in time for the holidays!)

Come find out why the Emerson PTA focuses our efforts on racial equity. Everyone is welcome to join us for a deeper dive with the PTA Equity Retreat. We will build community, look at the opportunity gap at Emerson, and learn important skills that parents can use to welcome and support all of our families (and how far we have to go!).

  • Nov 14, 9am - 1pm: PTA Equity Retreat (Zoom link to follow)

Stay tuned for a Racial Equity Circle invitation for the Spring.

Email us with any questions or ideas:
Kelly Shimoda (Winnie, 1st) kelly.shimoda@gmail.com
Viv White (Ace, 4th) vivwhite@gmail.com

Support Emerson PTA - BECOME A MEMBER TODAY!

The Emerson Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) brings together parents/guardians, teachers/staff and friends of Emerson to work for a positive school experience for all children at our school. As a member, you can vote on programming and spending decisions. Parents, guardians, extended family members or friends of all Emerson students are invited. Please renew membership every year. Please sign up ONLINE at https://emerson.berkeleypta.org/pta-membership. A donation of $10/person is suggested but NOT required. For questions, contact cluetters09@gmail.com.

ZOOM FRIENDLY RULE REMINDERS:

  1.  Be prepared for class by wearing clothes, putting away toys and ready to participate

  2.  Be aware of your surroundings- remember your teacher and class can see behind you. Try to find a quiet place to join the Zoom meeting.

  3. Mute yourself when you enter the meeting use the microphone bottom and wait for the teacher to call on you to unmute.

  4. Raise your hand and wait for the teacher to call on you- take turns and practice being patient. 

  5. Be respectful- contribute to class positively and be a Zoom leader by participating responsibly.

Find Emerson Online

Website: emerson.berkeleypta.org

Remind: Text @7f6hb to 81010; or go to www.remind.com/join/7f6hb

Facebook: www.facebook.com/emersonpta (or follow @emersonPTA)

About BearFacts News:
BearFacts News is a weekly publication created by parent volunteers. It is distributed each Thursday in students' Look Folders and via email. 

If you have a news item or announcement to include in the BearFacts News, please send an email to emersonschoolnews@gmail.com. Please keep your message brief and include all the pertinent details including dates, times, locations and contact information. The deadline is each Monday at 6 p.m.

Copyright © 2020. Emerson Elementary PTA. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
2800 Forest Ave.
Berkeley, CA  94705

BearFacts News - 11.05.2020

Emerson header

Si tiene alguna duda sobre esta nota debido a la traduccion,
por favor comuniquese con Rafael Friedmann via email: rfriedmann@aol.com

 

Message from the Principal

Dear Emerson Community, 

As I write this week’s message, I, like many Americans, am not sure what to anticipate on Election Night. In our homes, our children may be feeling some anxiety.  We all know this election is very charged and there is no doubt America is divided.  Yet we can create a teachable moment in our families where we model empathy and the art of civil disagreement without demonizing those we don’t agree with.  Here are some suggestions for managing this complex topic with your child: article link. 

It is good news that COVID cases continue to decline in Alameda County.  We anticipate that next week the State of CA will reclassify us from the Orange,  Moderate Tier to the Yellow, Minimal Tier. The Berkeley Unified School District is taking a phased approach to reopening, with programs opening at four elementary schools with a target date of November 9.  Emerson is not one of the schools that will reopen in November; however, we are poised to learn from the open elementary programs and will continue preparations for a return to campus.  K- 2 grades return target date is January 13 and the 3-5 grade target date is January 20.  For updated information about the district’s path to reopening please visit the Elementary School Reopening Readiness Dashboard.  You can also stay informed by listening to the Wednesday School Board meeting. 

Emerson’s site-specific completed preparations include:  

Touchless faucets in classrooms

Air purifiers in classrooms

Updated cleaning protocols 

Hand sanitizer in classrooms and hallway stations

Plexiglass in office

Safety signage and stickers throughout and outside the school

PPE supplies available for staff/students 

Covid Liasion Site Response Team- trained by Berkeley Health Dept. 

Temporary School Safety Officer Assigned to Emerson 


A partial list of tasks yet to be completed: 

Additional signage on classrooms, throughout the school

Finalized egress plans for the entering, exiting, and school day movement

COVID training and testing protocols for staff 

Family enrollment in Daily Self Screening program 

Approval of safety plan by Alameda County Office of Education

Creation of hybrid learning schedule specifics after negotiations with labor partners is finalized


I realize you may have growing questions about how the reopening of school will look.  We are planning an Informational Session with the PTA and School Staff to provide you with a forum for updates and questions.  We care about your family and want you to be safe.  We want to provide the best educational environment possible, given our current limitations.  We anticipate the hybrid school model will be considerably different than the school practices you are used to.  However, what won’t change is our dedication to your student’ safety, academic, and social-emotional success. If you have questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out. 


Take care,  Jana Holmes 

Upcoming Events & Key Dates

Friday, Nov 6, 9:00AM - All-School Meeting (zoom link to follow)

Wednesday, Nov 11 - No School - Veterans Day

Wednesday, Nov 11 - Saturday, Nov 14 - Mrs. Dalloway’s Fundraiser (details below)

Saturday, Nov 14 - PTA Equity Retreat (details below)

Monday, Nov 16 - Friday, Nov 20 - Rescheduled - Parent-Teacher Conferences

Thursday, Nov 19: Black Lives Matter workshop (details below)

Friday, Nov 20 - Schedule change - No School - Parent-Teacher Conferences

Monday, Nov 23 - Friday, Nov 27 - No School - Thanksgiving holiday

Find more dates/details: emerson.berkeleypta.org/calendar

MRS. DALLOWAYS 12th ANNUAL SCHOOL BENEFIT FUNDRAISER

Wednesday - Saturday, Nov 11-14 - Online event. All day. All night. 4 days!

How it Works: Purchase gift certificates online from Mrs Dolloay’s Bookstore during our 4-day fundraiser, Nov 11-14 and Mrs. Dalloway’s will donate 15% of your purchase to Emerson-Elementary-Berkeley. Purchase as many gift certificates as you want, in any denomination, and redeem either online or in person (when the store reopens). Mrs. Dalloway's keeps a digital record of all gift certificates, and they never expire. Spread the word to your friends, neighbors, and out-of-town family. Anyone anywhere can participate and support our school.

IMPORTANT:

  • In order for your purchase to be counted, YOU MUST ENTER “Emerson - BERKELEY” IN THE ORDER COMMENTS FIELD at the bottom of the Checkout page. Please note there is an Emerson Elementary in Oakland so it it important to write “Emerson- BERKELEY”

  • Gift certificates MUST be purchased between November 11-14.

Click HERE to purchase gift certificates!

Mrs. Dalloway's School Fundraiser is an easy and safe way to raise money for your school!
Looking for gift ideas or book suggestions? Visit Mrs. Dalloway's website and check out our
Holiday Recommendations for Adults & Kids.

Questions? Contact info@mrsdalloways.com

Equity Corner:
The Emerson Equity Team is happy to share some upcoming ways to work together and learn about racial equity in our school and beyond.

We welcome everyone to Monthly Racial Equity Discussions for the Emerson community on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 7-8:30pm. Our whole community is invited to have a facilitated discussion about racial equity with Ms. Pamela Small at these discussions (Zoom links to follow):

  • Nov 19: Black Lives Matter. A workshop to help Emerson parents better understand the BLM movement, its origins, and why it is relevant to all of our children's lives, regardless of their race.

  • Dec 17: Having Hard Conversations about Race: the practice (just in time for the holidays!)

Come find out why the Emerson PTA focuses our efforts on racial equity. Everyone is welcome to join us for a deeper dive with the PTA Equity Retreat. We will build community, look at the opportunity gap at Emerson, and learn important skills that parents can use to welcome and support all of our families (and how far we have to go!).

  • Nov 14, 9am - 1pm: PTA Equity Retreat (Zoom link to follow)

Stay tuned for a Racial Equity Circle invitation for the Spring.

Email us with any questions or ideas:
Kelly Shimoda (Winnie, 1st) kelly.shimoda@gmail.com
Viv White (Ace, 4th) vivwhite@gmail.com

Support Emerson PTA - BECOME A MEMBER TODAY!

The Emerson Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) brings together parents/guardians, teachers/staff and friends of Emerson to work for a positive school experience for all children at our school. As a member, you can vote on programming and spending decisions. Parents, guardians, extended family members or friends of all Emerson students are invited. Please renew membership every year. Please sign up ONLINE at https://emerson.berkeleypta.org/pta-membership. A donation of $10/person is suggested but NOT required. For questions, contact cluetters09@gmail.com.

ZOOM FRIENDLY RULE REMINDERS:

  1.  Be prepared for class by wearing clothes, putting away toys and ready to participate

  2.  Be aware of your surroundings- remember your teacher and class can see behind you. Try to find a quiet place to join the Zoom meeting.

  3. Mute yourself when you enter the meeting use the microphone bottom and wait for the teacher to call on you to unmute.

  4. Raise your hand and wait for the teacher to call on you- take turns and practice being patient. 

  5. Be respectful- contribute to class positively and be a Zoom leader by participating responsibly.

Find Emerson Online

Website: emerson.berkeleypta.org

Remind: Text @7f6hb to 81010; or go to www.remind.com/join/7f6hb

Facebook: www.facebook.com/emersonpta (or follow @emersonPTA)

About BearFacts News:
BearFacts News is a weekly publication created by parent volunteers. It is distributed each Thursday in students' Look Folders and via email. 

If you have a news item or announcement to include in the BearFacts News, please send an email to emersonschoolnews@gmail.com. Please keep your message brief and include all the pertinent details including dates, times, locations and contact information. The deadline is each Monday at 6 p.m.

Copyright © 2020. Emerson Elementary PTA. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
2800 Forest Ave.
Berkeley, CA  94705

BearFacts News - 10.29.2020

Emerson header

Si tiene alguna duda sobre esta nota debido a la traduccion,
por favor comuniquese con Rafael Friedmann via email: rfriedmann@aol.com

 

Message from the Principal

Dear Emerson Community,

This week brought its own set of new challenges.  Some of us woke up Monday morning to power outages and gusting winds. Thank you for your flexibility and patience. Through all of this, it has been difficult to strike the balance between too much communication and not enough.  I do my best to avoid sending you Remind messages on the weekend, recognizing that during the week you may be getting many.  During distance learning, we want to make sure you are aware but don’t want to inundate you with text and emails either.  Please know we are aware of the potential for information overload, but our goal is to keep you informed. 

If you were a participant in the last School Board meeting webinar you may know that the target date for the school reopening has been pushed to January 13, 2020.  This decision meets our school community with mixed emotions of relief and disappointment. It is important to understand that Emerson Elementary is under the umbrella of Berkeley Unified School District and we can not act independently.  However, we are taking steps to ready for the eventual school opening, including installation of touchless drinking fountains, air purification systems in the classrooms, hand sanitizing stations in the classrooms and hallways, safety markings throughout the school, plexiglass in the main office, and the development of a school-wide updated safety plan and much more. Still, Emerson can not open without the approval of the district submitted plans to Alameda County Health Department and Office of Education.  If you have questions about the school reopening progress I welcome you to visit the district School Reopening Dashboard at: https://www.berkeleyschools.net/coronavirus/elementary-dashboard/ or contact me directly at janaholmes@berkeley.net. 

The stress this pandemic continues to place upon our community is immeasurable.  School-based therapist Ms. Marlies Rosmark is currently facilitating a support group for parents which meets once a week.  If you are interested in joining the next session, which will run for about 6- 8 weeks, please contact her at mrosmark@bacr.org or 510-559-3039.  

Finally, we anticipate Emerson will face significant funding challenges for the 2020- 2021 school year. Most of our typical fundraisers have been postponed or canceled. If you are able, please show your support by purchasing a gift certificate from Ms. Dalloways, local Berkeley bookstore, between November 11 - 14.  We will receive 15% of the proceeds, but you must be careful to indicate Emerson-Berkeley in the Order Comment Field at the bottom of the Checkout Page. This is important because there is an Emerson Elementary in Oakland too.  This is a great opportunity to support Emerson and complete some early holiday shopping.

Take good care,

Jana Holmes

Upcoming Events & Key Dates

Monday, Nov 2 and Tues, Nov 3 - 4th and 5th grade book bag pick-up

Friday, October 30 - Schedule change - School WILL be in session.

Wednesday, Nov 11 - No School - Veterans Day

Wednesday, Nov 11 - Saturday, Nov 14 - Mrs. Dalloway’s Fundraiser (details below)

Saturday, Nov 14 - PTA Equity Retreat (details below)

Mon., Nov 16 - Fri, Nov. 20th - Rescheduled - Parent-Teacher Conferences

Turs., Nov 19: Black Lives Matter workshop (details below)

Friday, Nov. 20th - Schedule change - No School - Parent-Teacher Conferences

Find more dates/details: emerson.berkeleypta.org/calendar

MRS. DALLOWAYS 12th ANNUAL SCHOOL BENEFIT FUNDRAISER

Wednesday - Saturday, Nov 11-14 - Online event. All day. All night. 4 days!

How it Works: Purchase gift certificates online from Mrs Dolloay’s Bookstore during our 4-day fundraiser, Nov 11-14 and Mrs. Dalloway’s will donate 15% of your purchase to Emerson-Elementary-Berkeley. Purchase as many gift certificates as you want, in any denomination, and redeem either online or in person (when the store reopens). Mrs. Dalloway's keeps a digital record of all gift certificates, and they never expire. Spread the word to your friends, neighbors, and out-of-town family. Anyone anywhere can participate and support our school.

IMPORTANT:

  • In order for your purchase to be counted, YOU MUST ENTER “Emerson - BERKELEY” IN THE ORDER COMMENTS FIELD at the bottom of the Checkout page. Please note there is an Emerson Elementary in Oakland so it it important to write “Emerson- BERKELEY”

  • Gift certificates MUST be purchased between November 11-14.

Click HERE to purchase gift certificates!

Mrs. Dalloway's School Fundraiser is an easy and safe way to raise money for your school!
Looking for gift ideas or book suggestions? Visit Mrs. Dalloway's website and check out our
Holiday Recommendations for Adults & Kids.

Questions? Contact info@mrsdalloways.com

Equity Corner:
The Emerson Equity Team is happy to share some upcoming ways to work together and learn about racial equity in our school and beyond.

We welcome everyone to Monthly Racial Equity Discussions for the Emerson community on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 7-8:30pm. Our whole community is invited to have a facilitated discussion about racial equity with Ms. Pamela Small at these discussions (Zoom links to follow):

  • Nov 19: Black Lives Matter. A workshop to help Emerson parents better understand the BLM movement, its origins, and why it is relevant to all of our children's lives, regardless of their race.

  • Dec 17: Having Hard Conversations about Race: the practice (just in time for the holidays!)

Come find out why the Emerson PTA focuses our efforts on racial equity. Everyone is welcome to join us for a deeper dive with the PTA Equity Retreat. We will build community, look at the opportunity gap at Emerson, and learn important skills that parents can use to welcome and support all of our families (and how far we have to go!).

  • Nov 14, 9am - 1pm: PTA Equity Retreat (Zoom link to follow)

Stay tuned for a Racial Equity Circle invitation for the Spring.

Email us with any questions or ideas:
Kelly Shimoda (Winnie, 1st) kelly.shimoda@gmail.com
Viv White (Ace, 4th) vivwhite@gmail.com

Staff Corner:
Hello Emerson students and families. We miss you so much and hope that you are all doing well. This week some Emerson staff members answered the question: If you could go back in time and give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Watch here. Enjoy!

Student Corner:
Here you can check out some of our ADORABLE Emerson students answering the question: What is your favorite Halloween or Dia de Los Muertos memory?

This week's question is: How does it feel being a student during distant learning?
Here is where you can share your answer with a song, dance, picture or story to be shared with the Emerson community.

Support Emerson PTA - BECOME A MEMBER TODAY!

The Emerson Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) brings together parents/guardians, teachers/staff and friends of Emerson to work for a positive school experience for all children at our school. As a member, you can vote on programming and spending decisions. Parents, guardians, extended family members or friends of all Emerson students are invited. Please renew membership every year. Please sign up ONLINE at https://emerson.berkeleypta.org/pta-membership. A donation of $10/person is suggested but NOT required. For questions, contact cluetters09@gmail.com.

ZOOM FRIENDLY RULE REMINDERS:

  1.  Be prepared for class by wearing clothes, putting away toys and ready to participate

  2.  Be aware of your surroundings- remember your teacher and class can see behind you. Try to find a quiet place to join the Zoom meeting.

  3. Mute yourself when you enter the meeting use the microphone bottom and wait for the teacher to call on you to unmute.

  4. Raise your hand and wait for the teacher to call on you- take turns and practice being patient. 

  5. Be respectful- contribute to class positively and be a Zoom leader by participating responsibly.

Find Emerson Online

Website: emerson.berkeleypta.org

Remind: Text @7f6hb to 81010; or go to www.remind.com/join/7f6hb

Facebook: www.facebook.com/emersonpta (or follow @emersonPTA)

About BearFacts News:
BearFacts News is a weekly publication created by parent volunteers. It is distributed each Thursday in students' Look Folders and via email. 

If you have a news item or announcement to include in the BearFacts News, please send an email to emersonschoolnews@gmail.com. Please keep your message brief and include all the pertinent details including dates, times, locations and contact information. The deadline is each Monday at 6 p.m.

Copyright © 2020. Emerson Elementary PTA. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
2800 Forest Ave.
Berkeley, CA  94705