Dear Saunders Families, 

We are enjoying the energy in the building in the month of March.  We have events related to both academics and extra-curricular activities coming up in the near future.  Here are some things taking place and some upcoming events: 

1. Writing SOL:  The writing SOL will take place this week for all 8^th grade students.  Testing will take place on the following schedule:

• Tuesday 3.14 - Multiple Choice (make-up 3.15)
• Thursday 3.16 - Short Answer (make-up 3.17)

For more details, contact your student's Language Arts or Creative Writing teacher. 

2. Earthquake Donation Drive:  This week, theStudent Council Association is sponsoring a donation drive for earthquake victims in Turkey and Syria (March 13-17). Suggested donation ideas include: blankets, jackets, gloves, scarves, hats, hygiene products, and diapers. There will be a box in the mixing bowl to place donations in the mornings before the announcements.  If you would like to contribute monetarily, please donate using this link: https://secure.givelively.org//donate/bridge-to-turkiye/kahramanmaras-earthquake-relief-fund/eyosias-ada-coskunkal.  If we reach our donation goal of 200 items, students will pie Mr. Byrd in the face on Monday, March 20th!

3. March Spirit Week is THIS WEEK!  This Week (March 13-17) is March Spirit Week.  Students and teachers can show theirspirit by dressing up each day:

• Monday- Pajama Day
• Tuesday- Favorite Movie/Book Character Day
• Wednesday- Country vs. Country Club Day
• Thursday- Jake from State Farm Day (red shirt, khaki pants) 
• Friday- Happy St. Patrick's Day (wear green!) 

4. Saunders Book Fair:  The Saunders Book fair will begin next Monday, 3.20.  Students will be able to purchase books from 3.20 - 3.28.  For further information, contact Ms. Crothers in the Saunders library.   
5. Fun Friday and School Dance:  March 31 is the PTSO/NJHS Fun Friday and School Dance following school.  The theme is dress as your "Bestie Dance Party."  There will be volleyball, basketball, and the dance party!  Tickets will be sold by the PTSO in the cafeteria from 3.20 - 3.30 during lunches.  Tickets are $3. 
6. One Read:  In homeroom during March, we are all reading our One Read book, The Crossover by Kwame Alexander.  Students are participating in reading the book and related activities. 
7. Summer Program for Sixth Grade:  We are planning to host a summer program for upcoming sixth graders on August 8, 9, and 10.  If you have current fifth grade students that will attend Saunders, mark your calendars.  More details to come. 
8. Spring Sports Tryouts:  If you have students who are interested in Soccer, Baseball, Softball, or Track, Spring tryouts begin 3.27.   Students must have all paperwork (physical and concussion papers) in by 3.22.  Contact the following coaches with questions:
   • Soccer - Mr. Baroz
   • Baseball - Mr. Holman
   • Softball - Ms. Lowry
   • Track - Mr. Wrighten
9. Family Engagement Series: The PWCS Family Engagement Series is a virtual series that provides knowledge and resources of PWCS programs and services along with community partners to build the capacity of PWCS families. PWCS families register for each session using a Zoom registration. Language accommodations will be offered upon requests. All sessions start at 7 p.m. and are one hour in length. Attached is a flyer with upcoming sessions for March 2023.
10. School Network and Devices:  Please remind your students that school issued devices should be used primarily for instruction and completing school assignments.  Students should remember to use their issued device in a manner that follows the Division’s Responsible Use and Internet Safety Policy and should never try to circumvent network safeguards.  This includesthe use of any methods or tools to bypass the school division’s internet safety and security measures. Students found trying to bypass the Division’s network security measures could face disciplinary consequences.

This Week:

• 13-3.17 - March Spirit Week!
• 13 @ 5:15 pm - Wrestling vs. Benton (home)
• 14 - 8^thGrade Writing SOL (multiple choice)
• 16 - 8^thGrade Writing SOL (short answer)

Upcoming Events:

• March 20 - 28 - Book Fair
• 20 @ 5:15 pm - Girls Basketball vs. Hampton (home)
• 23 - Reading Field Test
• 27 - Spring Tryouts begin for students
• 31 - PTSO Fun Friday & Dance
• 2-4.7 - Spring Break!

We hope your child is thriving and enjoying school at Saunders.  Our goal is to partner with you to provide the best environment for an excellent education for every student.  Please reach out if we can be of assistance. 

Mr. Jeremy Byrd

Principal

PWCS Family Engagement Series Flyer

February 27 Newsletter