Aspen Updates February 5, 2016

Throughout the day on Friday, February 5, we will be making surprise announcements for students to “Drop Everything and Read”.  Please encourage your students to bring a book from home that they can read during those times.  We will be adding all those minutes to our school-wide minute total for our 2 million minute goal.

On Saturday, February 6, Aspen will be holding its annual Family University.  Sign up now by visiting our website and by clicking on the Aspen Family Partnership Council link under the “Important” tab. Come and hear Kim Olver present on the art of using consequences in a way that will enhance a long term healthy relationship with your child rather than harm it.  There is also an awesome educational children’s program planned for kids age four and older.  Don’t miss this incredible opportunity – for parents and Aspen students!

Roller skating begins in PE classes on Monday for grades 2-5. Roller skates or roller blades may not be brought from home.  Protective gear may be brought from home.  Just make sure it is marked with the student’s name.  The company provides the school with wrist guards, helmets and knee pads.

On Wednesday, February 10, our kindergartners will celebrate 100th day with a fashion show in the cafeteria at 8:15 a.m.

Also, Wednesday, February 10 is an early release day.  Students will be dismissed at 11:25, after they have had their lunch.

We will be practicing a severe weather drill on Thursday, February 11.

The PTO will be hosing Valentines Day parties on Friday, February 12 at 1:10 p.m.

Q & U’s Wedding

The wedding was well attended and the Aspen Elementary School kindergarteners will remember the day that Q and U united in literacy matrimony.  The celebration included, U walking down the aisle to the students signing, “/qu/, /qu/, /qu/, /qu/” (to the tune of the Wedding March), vows read by officiate DJ, Lou Loiben, followed by a short reception with plenty of group dancing.

Kindergarten Registration

Walk-in Kindergarten Registration is set for 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 25 and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 26 at Hawthorn Middle School South, 600 N. Aspen Drive, Vernon Hills. Parents must bring registration documents outlined on the kindergarten registration page.

Talent Show

The 2016 PTO sponsored Hawthorn Variety Show is Sunday, March 6. Click here to showcase your special talent and to fill out an entry form. There is a mandatory practice Saturday, March 5.  The last day to register is Thursday, February 18.

Summer School Registration Underway

Sign up now for the Hawthorn Enrichment Institute summer school for District 73 students. Taught by certified District 73 teachers, students will be motivated to return to school in the fall after taking five weeks of classes Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. beginning Tuesday, July 05 through Friday, August 05, 2016. Register and view class catalog hereInformation en Español. Students can take classes that help them brush up on their math and reading skills, explore the world of science, using creative fun methods.

Aspen Updates January 29, 2016

Friday, January 29 is the Birthday Breakfast with Mr. Fredricksen for all students with a birthday in January.  Happy birthday to all!

Friday is also the middle of the 2nd trimester.  Mid terms will be coming home for some students on Tuesday.  Please check those backpacks!

Throughout the day on Friday, February 5, we will be making surprise announcements for students to “Drop Everything and Read”.  Please encourage your students to bring a book from home that they can read during those times.  We will be adding all those minutes to our school-wide minute total for our 2 million minute goal.

The Caring Habit for the month of February is Problem Solving.  A school-wide assembly will be addressing this caring habit and teachers will be holding discussions during class.  Ask your student what they are learning about problem solving this month!

On Saturday, February 6, Aspen will be holding its annual Family University.  Sign up now by visiting our website and by clicking on the Aspen Family Partnership Council link under the “Important” tab. Come and hear Kim Olver present on the art of using consequences in a way that will enhance a long term healthy relationship with your child rather than harm it.  There is also an awesome educational children’s program planned for kids age four and older.  Don’t miss this incredible opportunity – for parents and Aspen students!

AFPC Social Team is Looking for Student Performers

The AFPC is looking for students to perform a few cultural dances at our upcoming Aspen family night to be held Friday, February 19th from 6:30-8. If you are available, please contact Lynn Cieslinski at mike.lynn.cieslinski@comcast.net by February 4th.

Aspen’s 9th Annual Family University 
- Saturday, February 6, 2016

Aspen’s 9th Annual Family University – 
Saturday, February 6, 2016 from 9:00 a.m.-Noon
Parent Program:  All parents will participate in a phenomenal NEW workshop taught by Kim Olver (Glasser Institute Executive Director and Faculty and acclaimed speaker/author) titled “Consequences-Discipline vs. Punishment” with home-school connection breakout sessions led by Mrs. Carson, Mrs. Gerjol, Mrs. Manchester, Mrs. Motley, Kim Olver & Mrs. Szoke.  Parents of students starting at Aspen in the fall of 2016 are invited to register and attend the Parent Program, but the Children’s Program is only for CURRENTLY registered Aspen families. Links to Registration Forms are below.

Children’s Program (children MUST be at least 4 years old and currently enrolled Aspen family):  Our awesome educational program is organized by Mrs. Block, Mrs. Caby, Ms. Sturgill and Mrs. Zurek and taught by Ms. Abel, Mrs. Bonnem, Mrs. Chandler, Mrs. Gifford, Mrs. Howell, Mrs. Loiben, Ms. McNair, Mrs. Medbery and Mrs. Vynnyk.  Kids 4 years old through 1st Grade will learn how to identify their basic needs and meet them responsibly through age-appropriate educational activities which include “Around-the-World” themed team-building games, physical exercise, creative projects and story-telling.  Kids in 2nd Grade and older will focus on how to develop and maintain quality friendships through an engaging and fun science experiment and team-building games.  A snack will be provided.  (Aspen Graduates are needed…if they’d like to volunteer to help, please note so on your registration form or contact Mrs. Carson).  For a detailed description of the Children’s Program, click HERE.

A HUGE thank you to Philly G’s and Tavern on 60 for their generosity in catering lunch!

Registration deadline is February 2!  After that, registration is based on availability.  Please contact Nicole Carson at nc.longdon@gmail.com or (847) 858-5602 if you have any questions.
LINKS to Registration Forms:
Currently Enrolled Aspen Family U 2016 Registration Form

Incoming Aspen Parents (Fall of 2016) Family U 2016 Registration Form

BookFair Volunteers Needed

The PTO’s spring book fair is coming to Aspen and we need your help!  Please click here
to volunteer with set up, student wishlists, order fufillment, and tear down.  You may sign up for as many time slots as you are available!  Thank you for helping to make this important fundraiser a success!

Aspen/ES 2016 Winter Orchestra Concert

Please enjoy these pictures of the 4th and 5th grade orchestra students performing during their winter concert on Thursday, January 14th.  Congratulations to Ms. Lee and all of her students on an outstanding performance!