2. It Takes a Village!
Parents and community groups can play a
key role in providing extended learning
opportunities for students beyond the
school day and school year.
These efforts are critical to the well being
of the school and when well implemented
will result in an open and positive school
climate for educators and parents as well
as improved learning experiences for
students.
3. Work Well with Parents
More effective teachers communicate more with
parents.
More effective schools communicate more with
parents.
For example, from the Taylor et al., 2002 study, more
effective schools often had site councils, focus
groups, teachers calling home at least once a
month, letter or newsletter, traveling folder home.
Effective Schools, Accomplished Teachers
by Barbara M. Taylor and P. David Pearson, Eds. Mahwah,
NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum, 2002
5. School Supplies
• With the help of community volunteers and one of our
business sponsors, Cargill, we will be sponsoring a
one-day school supply giveaway for any student
entering Southeast Polk schools.
Last year we enjoyed helping 591 students get a
fresh start to the first day of school with a new
backpack containing nearly all of the items on the
school supply list.
Pre-registration for this service ensures we will have
enough for all families who need support and allow us
to better plan for support from our wonderful
volunteers who help with this service. Please contact
Central Place by August 1.
6. New Shoes for You
In May, June, and July, families with a child entering a
Southeast Polk school (and who also meet income
guidelines) may sign their children up to receive a
new pair of tennis shoes for the beginning of the
school year.
The activity is made possible through a partnership
with the Altoona Payless Shoe Store, our church
communities, and an anonymous donor.
Watch the website to learn more about our plans for a
new and improved registration process for New
Shoes for You.
7. Jump Start
Jump Start is a free summer session focusing on
school readiness for children entering any
Southeast Polk kindergarten.
Jump Start is for children who have had little or
no preschool, although your child may be able to
attend if additional assistance is needed to be
ready for kindergarten.
Jump Start will be held Monday through
Thursday from 8:30 to 1:00. Breakfast and lunch
will be included.
8. Kid’s Cafe
Join us for our 8th year of FREE Kids' Cafe
summer lunch and literacy activities.
Sessions are 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.,
Monday/Wednesday, June 4-27.
Activities include a healthy lunch, reading,
learning, crafts, and games. Local volunteers will
lead the activities.
Open to any SEP student, ages 4 (by September
15) to 5th grade (in fall).
9. Bilingual Books
The Read To Me Foundation is a nonprofit
organization whose mission is to distribute free,
new, hardcover bilingual (English/Spanish)
children's books.
Southeast Polk was selected to receive 200 new
books, to be distributed to those who participate
in our programs.
These books will be delivered inside the book
bags courtesy of a Prairie Meadows grant.
10. Environmental Science and
Stewardship Camp
A summer camp for SEP high school students
interested in the environment is doing more than
providing an opportunity to learn about prairie wildlife
and plants.
The students are building confidence and developing
their own vision for a career in science through a
partnership between Drake University and Metro
Waste Authority.
The students have a morning session that exposes
them to ecological techniques to understand plants
and animals. The afternoon is devoted to stewardship
activities.
The week-long camp is held at Metro Waste
Authority’s 73-acre environmental protection area
near Runnels, Iowa.
11. Discussion
Were any of these community opportunities new
to you?
Have you experienced any of these
opportunities?
How might we help our students and families
take advantage of these resources?
What other offerings might be helpful to our
parents and families?
