Ms. Michaeli’s Principal’s Notes

January 2010

Dear Parents:

Registration for entrance in the Kindergarten for September 2010 will take place at PS/IS 87Q beginning on Monday, February 1, 2010 between 9:00 A.M. - 11:00 A.M. daily. If you presently have a child in Pre-Kindergarten and you are zoned for PS/IS 87Q, you are REQUIRED to re-register your child for Kindergarten. If you are zoned for another school, preference will be given to zoned students first.

Beginning February 1, 2010, you may pick up an intake form for Kindergarten. You do NOT have to bring your child at that time. Please provide the school with the information below for registering your child. After all intake forms have been collected, the school will contact you with an offer. At that time you may schedule a time and date to come in and pre-register your child or you may decline the offer. You will also be given a folder with information for you to fill out at home with a physical form to be filled out by your doctor. The state mandates that you have 2 weeks to return the completed physical form along with the contents of the record. THIS INORMATION IS VITAL AND MUST BE RETURNED.

Requirements for registering a student for Kindergarten:
” Student must be born between January 1 and December 31, 2005.
” Must apply to zoned school. Preference will be given to zoned school students.
” Proof of name and date of birth.
” (2) Proof s of address.
” Written proof of Polio, Measles, Rubella, Mumps, DPT. Hepatitis B must be presented at the time of registration. Health forms will be given out and must be returned within a certain period of time. PROOF of all immunizations must be received before April 15, 2009.
” If siblings, provide name and OSIS number.
” If Pre-Kindergarten student, please provide OSIS number.

Key Dates:
” Monday, February 1 - March 12, 2010 submit intake application.
” Monday, March 22, 2010 - notification to families.
” Monday, April 12-Friday, April 25, 2010 - Assigned families will be pre-registered in ATS.

If you have any further questions please contact the office (718) 326-8243, or Mr. Dagnell, parent coordinator at (718) 326-8243, ext. 118.

Sincerely,

Caryn Michaeli
Principal

November 23, 2009

Dear Parents/Guardians:

School will be closed on Thursday, November 26th and Friday, November 27th for the Thanksgiving Holiday.

Thank you and enjoy your time off.

Sincerely,

Caryn Michaeli
Principal

November 2, 2009

Dear Parents:

We have had a wonderful two months of school with a lot of activities going on. Our Hurds Farm trip was a huge success. The students loved the experience of being in a real farm in the country. They were amazed by the Tappan Zee Bridge, the fall colors of the trees, the lack of sidewalks, the sizes of the homes, and real country living. This was the first time that many of our children have experienced a real farm. Next year we plan to take the entire school and family members as well.

We have completed our first round of School-Wide Enrichment. The students rated the activities and I am proud to say they were a huge success. On Wednesday, November 4th, your children will begin their new clubs.

The NY Islanders Hockey Team came to the school and spoke to students in grades 2-8 about team work and supporting one another. The children loved the performance and understood that they are all part of the 87 team. Police Officer Dove from the 104th precinct and Mr. Alvis Brown, Director of safety spoke to the children about gangs, internet safety, and cyber bullying. Many of the students did not realize that they could get in to trouble by threatening someone on AIM. They also did not realize that when they text, or use their electronic devices in the street, they are easy targets for robbery. Please remind your kids to walk in groups when they are out.

I would like to thank the PA for sponsoring the Harvest Dance for the Middle School and Harvest Game Night for the elementary school. Both events had a great turnout and the children had a lot of fun. They also enjoyed the Harvest Parade too.

I would like to remind everyone that the H1N1 vaccine program will begin on November 9, 2009. Parents that have returned the forms will have their children inoculated by Pam, our school nurse.

Parent Teacher Conferences will be held on November 10, 2009. Notices will be sent home regarding appointment times for you to meet with the teachers. School will be closed on Tuesday, November 3, 2009 for students and Thursday, November 11, 2009 for Veteran’s Day. On November 12, 2009 the Chancellor will be at PS/IS 128 for the PEP meeting. The meeting begins at 6:00pm and doors will close at 6:15pm. Guest speakers may sign up at 5:30pm. Please contact Nick Dagnell, Parent Coordinator if you intend to go to the meeting. The CEC meeting will take place at PS/IS 87 on Tuesday, November 17, 2009. The meeting begins at 8:00pm. The SCA will be there to answer questions regarding an extension.

I want to thank all of you who sold candy and supported our school. We are trying to arrange to take the entire school and families to Washington D.C. We are trying to see if we can tour the White House and meet with President Obama. Nick has had many conversations with the White House planning team, Senator Churck Schumer’s office and I will be writing a 250 word narrative on why we should be allowed to visit the White House and meet with the president. We will speak with Amtrack about reserving a train for 87. I will let you know more as we learn more.

By the end of the month you will receive your second set of goal letters. You will also be receiving the school wide CEP goals. Please feel free to come in and meet with Mr. Dagnell to learn how to navigate the ARIS Parent Link.

Sincerely,

Caryn Michaeli
Principal

Hurd’s Farm Reflections

Math:
The Hurd’s farm corn maze was designed to look like Henry Hudson’s ship, The Half Moon. On graph paper, using coordinate graphing design you own corn maze in any shape that you would like. Make sure that there is a way in and a way out.

Writing:
Using your experience at Hurd’s farm and your knowledge of Fable and Tall Tale elements, create your own Fable or Tall Tale. Remember the story should take place at the farm. Remember to be creative and imaginative.

To: All Teachers in Grades 3 - 8

From: Caryn Michaeli

Re: School-Wide Homework Assignment

The following assignment is to be completed by the students. The trip to the farm should be educational as well as fun. Some facts about the farm are as follows:

The 4 acre corn maze is in the shape of Henry Hudson’s ship The Half Moon.

The corn maze master will be there to explain to the children how the corn maze is made.

Some stations in the maze are about Native Americans and some are about the European explorers.

The students will be following a map using visual and language clues.

The students will be able to create animal and bird shapes using giant tangram pieces.

The students will learn about planting, growing, and harvesting crops.

Riddles about wildlife will be posted along the Eco-Trail

September 15, 2009

Dear Parents/Guardians,

I am proud to report that the opening of the school this year was
smooth. I am glad to see everyone and welcome our new family members
to 87. During my walk through the school I saw everyone hard at work
and focused. It felt as if we never left for summer vacation.

During the next 2 weeks your children will be assessed in reading,
writing, math, science, and social studies. Goals will be established
for every child. You will receive letters from your child’s teacher
indicating his/her goals. Please provide us with your input on how
your child learns best and what your child’s needs are.

We will have curriculum week from September 21st through September
25th. Meetings will take place at 8:30am.

” Monday, September 21st grades k and 1
” Tuesday, September 22nd grades 2 and 3
” Wednesday, September 23rd grades 4 and 5
” Thursday, September 24th grades 6 and 7
” Friday, September 25th grade 8

Mr. Dagnell, Ms. Fradella, Ms. Engel, Ms. Vaughan and Ms. Guarino will
be available to tutor you on the ARIS parent link. Please make sure to
see them so you can review your child’s information. Some parents have
indicated that the data is incorrect.

This week I asked the children for club requests. I was surprised to see that the children requested last year’s offerings. It just proves that exposure to many experiences allow for informed choices.

Club requests will go out this week to students in 2nd through 8th
grade. Please review your child’s choices and have them return their
club request to me as soon as possible. I would like our school wide
enrichment program to begin as soon as possible.

As always, I look forward to you coming in to see me or any of the
staff at any time. I look forward to another exciting and productive
year.

WELCOME BACK!

Sincerely,

Caryn Michaeli
Principal

KINDERGARTEN SUPPLY LIST

2 - FOLDERS

2 - ELMERS GLUE

2 - BOXES OF CRAYOLA CRAYONS

1 - SCISSOR

1 - BOX OF SHARPENED PENCILS

2 - PACKAGES OF DRY ERASE MARKERS

1 - OLD SOCK (dry erase board eraser)

2 - PACKAGES OF BABY WIPES

1 - SMOCK LABELED WITH CHILD’S NAME

WATER COLORS LABELED WITH CHILD’S NAME

CHANGE OF CLOTHES LABELED WITH CHILD’S NAME

2 - BLACK AND WHITE NOTEBOOKS

2 - BOXES OF TISSUES

1 - PACKAGE OF CRAYOLA MARKERS LABELED WITH CHILD’S NAME

1 - PACKAGE OF COLORED PENCILS

1st Grade Supply List

” Pencils w/erasers

” Colored pencils

” Markers

” Box of crayons

” 4 glue sticks / 1 liquid glue

” Scissors w/round edge

” Gallon of Ziploc bags

” 1 pack of index cards (to be kept at home)

” 2 boxes of tissues

” 2 rolls paper towels

” 2 packs of baby wipes or Wet Ones

” 6 notebooks:

a. red - homework
b. green - Science
c. blue - Writing
d. yellow - Reading response
e. purple - Math
f. extra

” 3 Folders
a. red - homework
b. green - Science
c. extra

MIDDLE SCHOOL 6, 7, 8 GRADE SUPPLY LIST

12 - MARBLE NOTEBOOKS

2 - BOXES OF PENS (BLUE OR BLACK INK ONLY)

2 - BOXES OF PENCILS

1 - CASE FOR PENS AND PENCILS

1 - RULER

2 - PACKS OF LOOSE LEAF PAPER

2 - PACKS OF GRAPH PAPER

1 - PACK OF CONSTRUCTION PAPER

1 - BOX OF TISSUES

1 - ROLL OF PAPER TOWELS

10 - DIFFERENT COLORED FOLDERS

1 - POCKET PENCIL SHARPER

1 - PACKAGE OF COMPUTER PAPER (500 SHEETS)

1 - USB FLASH DRIVE ( 1 GB minimum) available online for $5.99)

3 - GLUE STICKS

1 - BOX OF CRAYONS

1 - BOX COLORED PENCILS

2 - PACKAGES OF 3X5 INDEX CARDS

5TH GRADE SUPPLY LIST

” 10 Durable pocket folders.
” 10 Marble hardcover notebooks (No spiral or binders)
” 2 packages of loose-leaf paper
” 2 packages of Yellow legal lined paper.
” 1 ream of White copy paper.
” 1 box of Gallon or Sandwich Ziploc bags.
” 3 pens (blue or black).
” 2 packages of 24 count #2 pencils.
” 1 package of cap erasers.
” 1 ruler with metric and customary measurements (plastic only).
” 1 Protractor.
” 1 3-pack glue sticks.
” 1 bottle Elmer’s glue
” 1 box of markers
” 1 box of crayons.
” 3 Post-it pads.
” 2 boxes of Tissues
” 2 rolls of paper towels.
” 2 boxes of Baby Wipes
” 1 Flash Drive (1G or Higher-this will be used at home and at school to save all computer projects and writing assignments).
” A dictionary (FOR HOME)

4th GRADE SUPPLY LIST

You will need the following supplies for the next school year. Please bring them with you on the first day of school. Thank you.

” 5 thick black and white marble composition notebooks. No loose-leaf binders.

” 1 box of colored pencils.

” 6 pocket folders.

” 2 packages of wide ruled, loose-leaf paper. Keep one at home for homework.

” 3 packages of #2 pencils.

” 1 pair of sturdy metal safety scissors.

” 2 small pencil sharpeners that catch the shavings. (Bring one to school, and leave on at home, so you can be prepared with sharpened pencils everyday).

” 2 boxes of tissues, 1 roll of paper towels, 1 packages of baby wipes. (These supplies will be used throughout the school year).

” 1 box of large clear storage bags. (For books)

Summer assignment:

1. Please practice time tables. You will need to know multiplication facts.
2. Keep a daily journal. Write about what you do, and what you think.
3. Read about 30 minutes each day, choose topics that you enjoy. Keep a log.
4. Have a wonderful summer filled with joy, and laughter! Don’t forget to smell the flowers, and count the fireflies. We will see you in September.

Third Grade Supply List

6 - black & white composition notebooks

8 - two pocket folders - any kind

48 sharpened #2 yellow pencils

24 pack Crayola or Prang crayons

4 Expo dry erase markers

2 boxes Crayola markers - 1 thin, 1 thick

4 glue sticks-NO liquid glue please!

1 soft cloth or plastic pencil case with zipper-no boxes please!

1 children’s scissor

2 packs of loose leaf

2 post-it notes

3 red pens and 3 blue pens

1 ruler-cm and inches

1 box gallon size easy slide Zip lock bags

2 boxes of tissues

2 rolls of paper towels

2 containers of baby wipes
Thank you for your continued cooperation. We are looking forward to a great year.

2ND GRADE SUPPLY LIST

You will need the following supplies. Please purchase them this week and bring them to school in September.
(6) Thick bound black and white marble notebooks. Please put your child’s first and last name on each notebook. DO NOT put the subject. We will do that in class. (NO LOOSELEAF BINDERS please).

(1) Box of Crayola crayons to be left in school.

(1) Box of Crayola (they last longer then other brands) washable, colored markers (Classic Colors).

(1) Box of Crayola color pencils.

(1) 4 oz. bottle of Elmer’s Glue.

(1) Large Elmer’s glue stick.

(10) Plain pocket folders: 2-blue, 2-red, 2-yellow, 2-green, 2-purple.

(2) Packages of wide ruled, loose-leaf paper. One package for school and one to be kept at home.

(3) Packages of #2 yellow pencils. Please sharpen all pencils in each package!

(1) Pair of metal, safety scissors.

(1) 12″ ruler with both centimeters and inches.

(2) Packages of Post-Its.

(2) Expo Dry Eraser Markers plus an old sock or rag, in a zipper plastic bag. These will be used with our white boards in class. Please mark the bag with your child’s name.
Class Donations:
1 Box of tissues
1 Roll of paper towels
1 Package of baby wipes
1 Box Hefty bags with zipper, jumbo 2.5 gallon

June 1, 2009

Dear Parents,
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your support during this trying time of the H1N1 virus. Many of you have called me, emailed me, and reached out to the school. You are to be commended for your efforts in helping us keep our children healthy and trying to prevent the spread of this illness. I want to remind everyone that I am not only committed to our children’s education, but to their general health and welfare as well. I have had the opportunity to see our children grow and change during the past 5 years and as a principal and parent, I only want the best for them. Every one of you has received my cell phone number. Keep it and call me for questions, comments, or just to talk.

I would also like to take this time to thank all of you for emailing Senator Addabbo and Councilwoman Crowley with regards to our extension. The emails are quite important. It shows that the school community is together in this fight. We have been neglected for far too long. We are graduating our fifth cohort of students and we still are waiting for correct facilities while schools that do not even have middle schools have their extensions. If the emails keep coming in dribs and drabs that does not allow those in power to forget that we are here. Frequent emails by different parents over a period of time sends the message that we will be relentless until we get what our children deserve.

I would also like to congratulate Jeanne Forster, parent of a 4th grader, for being elected to serve on the District 24 CEC. It is my hope that this might carry weight in future decisions not only regarding the community but our school. I would also like to thank Jeanne for nominating me for the Everyday Hero Award which I received on Thursday, May 28, 2009 from Senator Adabbo, Councilwoman Crowley, and the Ridgewood/Glendale Kiwanis Club. Three positive things came out of that event. The first is that Senator Adabbo told me to tell the parents to “keep the emails regarding the school extension coming.” As a result, Carlos Mercado, PA President sent out a template letter which Mr. Dagnell sent out. The second is that Councilwoman Crowley informed me that we are still not on the capital plan and she is trying to block it from being approved unless our extension is on. We are her #1 priority and the price tag quoted from the School Construction Authority was substantially less than what the other schools received. The third positive is that the Kiwanis Club is going to try to put an after school program into our school in September. During these times when money is scarce, I feel that this is exciting, generous, and enables us to become a more active part of the community.

Last, I am so proud of our children. This year 74% of our students are levels 3 and 4 on the NYS ELA exam and 87% are levels 3 and 4 on the NYS Math exam. I would like to remind you that we will be sending out summer homework packets. When our children come back to school in September, they tend to drop 2 reading levels. They slow down with their math skills. Last year was the first year that we did not send home summer work packets. Our students dropped with their reading and math skills significantly in September. Therefore, I am asking you to please make sure that your children read a little bit every day and write a summary of what they have read. We will be sending home graphic organizers with ideas on how to use them. We will also send home practice math packets. All of the children can log on to Reading Plus, Study Island, and VMath Live. We will forward all logins and passwords. The children enjoy these programs and they do help with reading and math achievement. I will be in school during July and the first week of August. If you need clarification with any of the assignments, just ring the doorbell.
I wish you all a wonderful, healthy, relaxing summer. Enjoy the quality time with your children. These days go by so quickly and before you know it, they are all grown up.
Sincerely,
Caryn Michaeli
Principal

May 20, 2009

Dear Parents:

I know that many of you are worried about the H1N1 (Swine) Flu. To date we are very fortunate that we had no confirmed cases in our school. However, I would like to caution people from spreading rumors by saying, “My child has Swine Flu” when the child has not been tested for it and in fact do not meet the criteria. My friend who is a Principal called me and said, “Ca, I got it!” I asked her, “How do you know?” Her response was, “I feel tired, I have a fever, cough and my body aches”. I asked her were you tested? She said, “I have Tamma Flu”. The next day she felt better. She did not have swine flu: swine flu cases are confirmed by the Department of Health (DOH). They will test for it and the results will come back in 3 to 4 days. With that said I am asking you to please keep your children home if they are sick and let them stay home for 24 hours after their symptoms go away. This will prevent the spread of any virus. Moreover, there is more than one strain of the flu going around. Our children seem to be complaining about a sore throat, accompanied by fever. This is not swine flu.

In addition, make sure to remind your children to wash their hands frequently, especially after touching their hands, eyes, nose and mouth. Remind your children not to share drinks and to make sure they cover their mouth when they cough. Alcohol based hand sanitizers should not be over used.

Please let us know if your children are sick and the status of their condition. If you have any questions please turn to reliable sources instead of listening to rumors. Below is a list of emails that me and the Assistant Principals along with Mr. Dagnell, Parent Coordinator can be reached:

” Cmichae@schools.nyc.gov. - Ms. Michaeli, Principal
” CSymbou@schools.nyc.gov. - Ms. Symbouras, Assistant Principal
” Mguarin2@schools.nyc.gov. - Ms. Guarino, Assistant Principal
” ndagnell@schools.nyc.gov. - Mr. Dagnell, Parent Coordinator

On a positive note, our Cirque De Soleil trip was a huge success. Seventy parents showed up for the event and were thrilled. Thank you for letting your children buy ice cream. Due to the profits we were able to donate $ 6,033 of our school funds towards the $9,000 cost of the buses and the show. Culture is very important and our children deserve to be exposed to wonderful shows. We hope to offer many more of these events next year.

Sincerely,

Caryn Michaeli
Principal

April 8, 2009

Dear Parents:

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all of you a restful, enjoyable spring vacation. I am disappointed to say that there are still talks about budget cuts. Let everyone know if you could change one thing it would be SMALL CLASS SIZE. Smaller classes mean more learning, and more clubs and enrichment programs. Let people know we need SMALLER CLASS SIZES.

I want to remind everyone that we contact you frequently. Every time you get an email, every time you get a letter, every time you get a phone call or every time you see a person who works in the school who talks to you, THAT IS CONTACT. Most of all it revolves around your child’s academic progress.

Every month we send you progress reports, contact goal letters, and checklists, about what your child is studying in school in all areas, and all skills broken down week by week. Look at the back of this letter. We give these notices to your children. Whether your child gives the notices to you is another question.

This year we held 27 workshops and events. It is unfortunate that we arranged for a Saturday workshop that parents signed up for and no one showed up. We have opened the school doors at night for workshops that parents signed up for and only one or two people showed up. This costs the school money that is taken away from the children. We need to pay for security. We need to pay to keep the building open. We need to pay for staff members. We have offered many events. It is up to you to attend them.

I want to remind everyone about our clubs. We have 54 clubs. Clubs are sometimes referred to as ENRICHMENT ACTIVITIES. All of our kids get Health, Art, Physical Education, and Computer. Our theatre program includes puppetry, drama, and the CASA Program. We also have dance, track, yoga, movie making and more. Visit our website at www.psis87q.org to learn more about our clubs and our after school tutoring programs.

Last, I am pleased to write that many positive things are happening at PS/IS 87. On February 19, 2009, our pre-kindergarten classroom was featured in the Queens Ledger. The article spoke about the integration of art into learning. We are very proud of our pre-k curriculum and as a result our pre-kindergarten teacher has been asked to teach teachers across the city. In addition, we were selected as the Ambassador School of the United States of America to represent the United States during the World Math Day competition. Live interviews were heard throughout the day on 880 AM radio. The Daily News, Queens Section also covered the events of World Math Day in our school. Congratulations to all of the students who participated both in school and at home. We believe our ranking is number 17 out of 226 countries. On Tuesday, April 7, 2009, our second graders were shown on Channel 4 and NY1 demonstrating against budget cuts. An article covering our second graders will be published in the Ridgewood Times Ledger. On April 29, 2009 we will be hosting the Consulate General and Head of International Education from Finland.

We look forward to more excitement as we look towards next year.

Sincerely,

Caryn Michaeli
Principal

April 8, 2009

Dear Parents:

We have managed to secure tickets for Cirque du Soleil’s “Kooza” which will be performing on Randall’s Island on Thursday, May 14, 2009 for grades 6, 7, and 8, and Friday, May 15, 2009 for grades 3, 4, and 5. Tickets for adults are about $250.00 and $175.00 for children. We have managed to secure tickets for $21.00 per child. I am willing to cover $10.00 per child leaving a balance of $11.00 which you would have to cover.

Sincerely,

Caryn Michaeli
Principal

Return to Ms. Michaeli, Principal

____ My child will attend Cirque du Soleil’s “Kooza”.

____ My child will NOT attend Cirque du Soleil’s “Kooza”.

____ I will be chaperoning Cirque du Soleil’s “Kooza”.

________________________ ________ _____________________________
Student Name Class Parent Name/Phone number

March 9, 2009

Dear Parents:

I am pleased to write that many positive things are happening at PS/IS 87. On February 19, 2009, our pre-kindergarten classroom was featured in the Queens Ledger. The article spoke about the integration of art into learning. We are very proud of our pre-k curriculum and as a result our pre-kindergarten teacher has been asked to teach teachers across the city. In addition, we were selected as the Ambassador School of the United States of America to represent the United States during the World Math Day competition. Live interviews were heard throughout the day on 880 AM radio. The Daily News, Queens Section also covered the events of World Math Day in our school. Congratulations to all of the students who participated both in school and at home. We believe our ranking is number 17 out of 226 countries. On Jan. 30, 2009, we hosted the Superintendent along with key personnel from the Denver Public School system. We represented the NYC Department of Education’s Office of Accountability in order to demonstrate how we implement the Children’s First Initiative. We were acknowledged by the Chancellor’s Office as well as the Executive Director, Irma Zardoya for our great work. Each year we continue to grow and get better at what we do.

I would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone that our school’s Leadership Team has developed new school-wide goals since our previous goals have been met.

Our new goals are:
By June 2009, 30% of the staff will develop curriculum on grammar, mechanics, and conventions.
We at PS/IS 87 feel that children must learn correct punctuation and grammar beginning at an earlier age. Early exposure allows children to master these important writing skills. We began this focus two years ago, however, now we would like to solidify the expectations that need to be met each year and on a grade by grade basis. This will allow you to support this portion of your child’s learning at home.

By June 2009, Science teachers will teach lessons using the scientific method.
The steps in the scientific method are: Problem/statement
Hypothesis
Materials
Procedure
Results
Conclusion

Once again, early exposure to scientific language will make it easier for our students in grades 4-8 that need to complete science exit projects. These steps are carried out in all science classes. However, the labels for each portion of the experiment may not be identified. Science is often ignored though it is quite important. Our goal is to make the scientific method understandable and usable for our students.

This month the DOE will be sending out its parent surveys for the third year in a row. Parents will have the option of filling out the surveys on paper or online.

Parent Teacher conferences will be held on Thursday, March 19, 2009, from 12:30 - 3:10pm and 5:30-8:00pm. If you do not receive a letter indicated your time preference, please call Mr. Dagnell at the above number, ext. 118.

I look forward to seeing then.

Sincerely,

Caryn Michaeli
Principal

March 9, 2009

Dear Parents/Guardians:

Parent teacher conferences will take place on Thursday, March 19, 2009. Dismissal will be at
11:20am for all students except Pre-kindergarten. AM session will be dismissed at 10:25 AM and there will NOT be any Pre-kindergarten PM session. Please make sure that you have arranged to pick up your children.

We will be holding two parent - teacher conference sessions. The first session will take place from 12:30pm - 3:10pm. The second session will take place from 5:30 - 8:00pm. Please choose three times that you are able to meet with your child’s teacher and indicate the time below. Return the tear off sheet no later than Tuesday, March 17, 2009. You will receive written notification from your child’s teacher about your appointment time. Please note that every effort will be made to accommodate your requested time.

Sincerely,

Caryn Michaeli
Principal

March 3, 2009

Dear Parents:

Due to yesterday’s school closing the New York State Math Test is re-scheduled. The Math exam is now scheduled for March 4-5 for grades 3 and 5 and March 4-6 for grade 4.

This information will be posted on the website today.
Sincerely,

Caryn Michaeli
Principal

February 23, 2009

Dear Parents:

We will be celebrating the closing of our second round of School Wide Enrichment activities on Thursday, February 26, 2009 at 8:30 a.m. in the auditorium. I would like to remind you that despite the fact that we do not have funding, we have been able to provide our students with an excellent enrichment program.

The children are excited about clubs and this has been a wonderful addition to our educational program. Our Club Fest will be a showcase of the following:

” Junior Dancers - Cha Cha Slide
” Drama - “Sitting Down”
” Cosmetology - Make-up Through the Years
” Chorus - “God Bless the USA”
“Neverland”
“Doe a Deer”
“The Canoe Song”
” Movie Making - Kid made flicks

Also to be showcased in our halls will be our enrichment walk:

” Scapbooks display
” Origami display
” Lego display
” Pillows
” Jewelry
” Hook rug
” Origami
” Recycling Art
” Cartooning Club
” and much more

I look forward to celebrating the enrichment program with you on Thursday, February 26, 2009. See you then.

Sincerely,

Caryn Michaeli
Principal

February 13, 2009

Dear Parents:

I would like to take this opportunity to convey our goal towards addressing academic expectations for the students. Each child has received goals in reading, writing, math, science and social studies. Additionally, children have goals for music, gym, art, and computer. These goals are what the children should be working towards. It is our hope that as they continue to grow these goals will be met. Please be reminded that goal letters, progress reports, or Acuity results in English Language Arts or Math is sent home on a monthly basis as well as the monthly curriculum calendars. Please contact us if you do not receive them.

Our school’s Comprehensive Education Plan (CEP) goals are:

” By June 2009, 75% of classrooms will integrate technology based learning into their classrooms. So far, 100% of this goal has been met. All classrooms have computers and we have utilized five different educational computer based programs; Reading Plus, Study Island, Castle Learning, VMath Live and Fast ForWord.
” By June 2009, 75% of students will demonstrate the use of problem solving strategies through journal writing. So far, this goal has been met all children write to convey mathematical thinking.
” By June 2009, parental involvement will increase by 25%. We have had meetings with parents including core and school wide enrichment celebrations, core units, parent workshops, and Test Prep workshops on Math and English Language Arts. We have achieved 20% of this goal.

This month we look forward to the official opening of our state of the art Science Lab. Thanks to former Councilman Gallagher who gave us $250, 000 which enabled the lab to be built. It comes equipped with a prep room, gas; elect computers, sink, projector and shower. It meets High School specifications. Now Ms. Daniel will work from science room which will benefit our children. In addition, 40 security cameras will be placed throughout the inside and outside of the school. The security officers will have a station as well as the Assistant Principals, Principal and Parent Coordinator offices. This will allow for greater viewing of what both inside and outside of the school. We are also waiting for our computers, projectors, and smart boards to be delivered. The goal is to have 10 computers in each room. The Science rooms, Social Studies room and ten other rooms will have smart boards. These are interactive boards that act in lieu of white boards. Students can touch the screen.

Last, I would like to remind all of our school’s Zero Tolerance policy when it comes to fighting or threats taking place both in school, outside of school and over the Internet.. As you have seen recently I have increased police presence around the school in order to convey that instances of that nature will be taken to the correct authority. In addition, there has been an increased police presence because we are concerned about the double-parking that is taking place on 68th Avenue. Because our school is partners with the 104th precinct they have willingly offered to patrol our neighborhood during dismissal.

Have an enjoyable President’s week off and I hope to see you all on Thursday,
February 26, 2009, for our second School Wide Enrichment Fair. As always, you are always welcome to walk into the school and see or meet with anyone at anytime, no appointments necessary.

Sincerely,

Caryn Michaeli
Principal

This year PS/IS 87 is hosting a “Kindergarten Tour” on Tuesday, February 24, 2009 at 9:30 AM. Our Kindergarten students are a wonderful group eager to show us off!

Please join us to celebrate their accomplishment and feel free to bring us your future Kindergartener to see our learning environment….

Thank you and we look forward to seeing you the 24th!!

Caryn Michaeli

Principal

P.S./I.S. 87
The Middle Village School
Energizing Minds - Setting an Example for the World
A Knowledge Network Teaching and Learning Organization
67-54 80th Street, Middle Village, N.Y. 11379
Tel: (718) 326 - 8243 Fax: (718) 894 - 3797

Principal Assistant Principals
Caryn Michaeli Carolyn Symbouras
Melissa Guarino

September 21, 2008

Dear Parents,
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you who supported the school and the restoration of funds last June. Thankfully all of our money was restored.

I am happy to report that we had a successful school opening. During the last four and a half years that I have been the principal of PS/IS 87, many improvements have taken place. Two second grade classrooms were created three years ago in order to meet the compliance mandates for lower grades. They were used as administrative offices which was not beneficial to the students. A bathroom was created in the pre-kindergarten classroom so the little ones would not have to leave the room. Two years ago the library was created and filled with books for students, teachers, and parents. Laptops were purchased for the library as well. The computer lab got a computer upgrade and the school decided to use Dell computers. This year, we are anxiously awaiting the completion of our middle school science lab fully equipped with electricity, water, and gas. To add to this year’s list, the terrible condition to the physical plant itself has been repaired. All of the bricks have been replaced. New windows were put in. All of the rooms have been re-plastered and painted. Many rooms had new floors installed. New furniture has been purchased for all of the classrooms. Most of the classrooms now have either desktops or laptops. We are still waiting for our multi-media center to be installed by the school construction authority.

Academically, three years ago we began to offer classes for the specialized high school exam. Two years ago we implemented Regents classes for our upper grade students in Earth Science and math. Another enhancement to our educational curriculum is the offering of Spanish to all middle school students. Students that excel in the language will be able to take the foreign language proficiency exam allowing for high school credits.

Last year we embarked on the course of Core Knowledge focusing on the link between social studies and literacy, as well as vocabulary development. This year we have expanded our implementation of Core Knowledge to include the science curriculum in grades K thorough 3, as well as the literacy portion school wide. At this point, students are exposed to a solid, sequenced, and spiraled curriculum. In addition, this year we are launching our school wide enrichment program. This program is geared to children’s interests and allows them to excel in areas that are not academic. Approximately 50 activities were offered to students. These activities will be rotated every three months. In addition, we have expanded our implementation of Core Knowledge to include the science curriculum in grades K thorough 3, as well as the literacy portion school wide. At this point, students are exposed to the solid, sequenced, and spiraled curriculum of social studies, literacy, art, and music

Finally, I am proud to say that Councilman Como has awarded the school with $500,000 for security cameras and technology. It is our hope to purchase smart boards and try to provide as many students as possible with laptops.

I look forward to a productive, rewarding year. Please feel free to see me or my administration at any time. No appointment is necessary.

Sincerely,

Caryn Michaeli
Principal

P.S./I.S. 87
The Middle Village School
Energizing Minds - Setting an Example for the World
A Knowledge Network Teaching and Learning Organization
67-54 80th Street, Middle Village, N.Y. 11379
Tel: (718) 326 - 8243 Fax: (718) 894 - 3797

Principal Assistant Principals
Caryn Michaeli Carolyn Symbouras
Melissa Guarino
September 12, 2008

Dear Parents,
I would like to offer you the opportunity to meet with your child’s teacher and learn about this year’s curriculum. This year, we will conduct our meet and greets next week. Open school week will take place in November. This will allow you to visit the classes while the teachers actually teach and the students are present.

The curriculum days are as follows:
Monday, September 15, 2008 K and 1 8:15am - 9:00am
Wednesday, September 17, 2008 2 and 3 8:15 - 9:00am
Thursday, September 18, 2008 4 and 5 8:15 - 9:00am
Friday, September 19, 2008 6, 7, and 8 8:15 - 9:00am

I look forward to seeing you there.

Sincerely,

Caryn Michaeli
Principal

P.S./I.S. 87
The Middle Village School
Energizing Minds - Setting an Example for the World
A Knowledge Network Teaching and Learning Organization
67-54 80th Street, Middle Village, N.Y. 11379
Tel: (718) 326 - 8243 Fax: (718) 894 - 3797

Principal Assistant Principals
Caryn Michaeli Carolyn Symbouras
Melissa Guarino

September 2, 2008

Dear Parents/Guardians,
Welcome back to school. I am pleased to report that a lot of work was completed during the summer months. All of the classrooms had new windows installed, some of the classrooms had their floors replaced, and all of the walls have been plastered and painted. Our science lab is set to be completed by the end of December 2008 or January 2009. The scaffolding is set to come down by December as well. We will probably have our yard back by the spring.

In response to the parent surveys, we had added an enrichment piece via the School Wide Enrichment model for students in grades 2 through 8. This was very well received by the middle school students last year and I anticipate that it will be a rewarding experience for your children. We have found that the students are tired at the end of the school day and need some rejuvenation in order to keep their continued interest in school. Academic Intervention Services will be provided during the school day by a certified teacher. Supplemental services along with Regents classes taking place after school should be forthcoming within the next two weeks. Please review the list of clubs below with your child. Your child should choose the three enrichment activities that he or she would like to participate in. We will try to honor first choices, however, if a first choice is not feasible, we will honor it the second time around. Enrichment activities will be rotated every three months.

Second to Fourth Grade Offerings:

Computers Students will learn how to work with computers (10 spots).

Card Games Students will learn mathematics, problem solving, and strategic thinking through card playing. Students will learn how to play Black Jack, Rummy, Poker, and more. (20 spots)

Brain Puzzles Students will learn how to analyze situations through computerized brain games and puzzles. (10 spots)
Women’s Leadership This is a first offering to female students only. Female students will learn how to take on leadership roles. Students will learn how female leaders are portrayed through fairy tales, myths, fables, and more. (10 Spots)

Chorus Students in this school will learn a variety of songs as well as how to harmonize.
(20 spots)

Track and Sports Students that participate in this activity will need signed permission slips that allow them to go off of school grounds in order to run. Students will learn how to sprint as well as establish endurance for long term running. (10 spots)

Puppetry Student will make their own puppets and participate in performing puppet shows for the school community. (10 Spots)

Paper Crafts Students will learn a variety of art techniques utilizing paper. They will be exposed to origami and other types of paper folding activities. (20 spots)

Games Students in this club will learn how to play board games. (10 spots)

Scrapbook Students will create and make their own scrap books. (10 spots)

Cooking Students in this club will learn how to make a variety of foods - from fruit salad to pies. (20 spots)

Recycling Art Students will support the “Going Green” initiative by creating art projects. (10 spots)

Calligraphy/Charcoal Students will learn how to do calligraphy as well as create pictures using charcoal. (10 Spots)

Drama Students will work towards writing and performing a play for the school community. They will work on scenery as well as set design. (10 spots)

Paper Art Student will learn how to use paper to make collages. (10 Spots)

Needlepoint Students will learn how to create works of art with needle point (20 spots)

Fifth to Eighth Grade Offerings:

Mosaics Students will create works of art using the mosaic craft. (20 Spots)

Art Club (20 spots)
Pilates Students will learn and participate in Pilates. (20 spots)

Logic Games Students will learn analytical skills through logic games (20 spots)

Movie Club Students will watch and analyze movies, themes, how movies are made (10 spots)

Chorus Students will participate in the formulation of a middle school chorus. (20 spots)

Cartooning Students will learn how to create comic books, comic books styles, and publish their own comic books. (10 spots)

Sports Students will participate in various sports activities.

Track and Sports Students that participate in this activity will need signed permission slips that allow them to go off of school grounds in order to run. They will be dismissed from Juniper Valley Park. Students will learn how to sprint as well as establish endurance for long term running. (20 spots)

Animal Rights Movement Students will learn about animal cruelty and how they can take a stand against harming animals and saving endangered animals. (10 spots)

Cooking Students will learn to make a variety of foods without oven use. (10 spots)

Sewing Students will create stuffed animals and pillows. (10 spots)

Yoga Students will learn the art of meditation through yoga (10 spots)

Crafts Students will create cell phone holders, (20 spots)

Aerodynamics Students will learn about aircrafts. (10 spots)

Scrapbook Students will create and make their own scrap books. (20 spots)

Beading Students will learn the jewelry making craft through bead weaving. (20 spots)

Book Binding Students will learn how to make books and create their own books (10 spots)

Mural Making Students will create large murals which will be hung in the auditorium (10 spots)

Board Games Students will play a variety of board games in order to foster higher order thinking skills (10 spots)

School Centennial Celebration Students will help prepare the school for its 100th celebration. (10 spots)

Drawing Students will learn the art of drawing (10 spots)

Knitting Students will learn how to knit (20 spots)

Peer Mediation Students will learn how to become peer mediators in the school (10 spots)

Please fill out the attached activities request form and hand in your child’s request sheet to his or her teacher by Friday, September 5, 2008.

I look forward to an exciting year.

Sincerely,

Caryn Michaeli
Principal

P.S./I.S. 87
The Middle Village School
Energizing Minds - Setting an Example for the World
A Knowledge Network Teaching and Learning Organization
67-54 80th Street, Middle Village, N.Y. 11379
Tel: (718) 326 - 8243 Fax: (718) 894 - 3797

Principal Assistant Principals
Caryn Michaeli Carolyn Symbouras
Melissa Guarino

September 6, 2008

Dear Parents/Guardians:

I am writing this letter to offer you the opportunity to allow your child to stay at school during the extended days on Tuesday’s, Wednesday’s, and Thursday’s and therefore be dismissed at 3:05, the same time as your older children. This is a sibling courtesy and will ease the burden of having to run to and from school in order to pick up all of your children.

If you would like to accept this offer, please notify me as soon as possible. If you accept this offer, your child will be dismissed at 2:15 Monday’s and Friday’s and 3:05 Tuesday’s, Wednesday’s and Thursday’s.

Sincerely,

Caryn Michaeli
Principal

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