
January is School Board Appreciation Month and we asked our board members to share a little about themselves.
Alicia Gillen is recently engaged to her life partner, Scott. She has 3 daughters and currently works as a political liaison. In her free time, she enjoys cooking and traveling
One thing she learned during the pandemic is to enjoy quality time with my family. Her family spent every weekend this spring and summer in our RV at different lakes, rivers and campgrounds around the region.
Thank you, Alicia, for your dedication to PCSSD!
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

January is School Board Appreciation Month and we asked our board members to share a little about themselves.
Eli Keller has two kids who attend PCSSD schools. His fiancée, Mary, has 3 kids. He volunteers for the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Arkansas and was recently named as the State Director!
One thing he learned during the pandemic is that more about the people in my life and their personalities. This pandemic showed me who is important in my life.
Thank you, Eli, for your dedication to PCSSD!
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

PCSSD will offer an online school for K-12 students in the 2021-2022 school year. Classes will be taught by certified PCSSD teachers with a flexible approach to learning. Registration is now open. https://youtu.be/prssLvKgVxE
Special thanks to THV11 for producing the commercial. #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Earlier this week state legislators were sworn-in at the State Capitol for the 93rd General Assembly for the State of Arkansas. Congratulations to these men and women who have been elected to represent Pulaski County:
http://ow.ly/DFBx30rsSum
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

The Arkansas Foodbank is looking for Hunger Heroes in Pulaski County. This year the Hunger Heroes program is expanding, opening it up to any student (age 5-18) or organization interested in participating. https://www.pcssd.org/article/380909?org=pcssd #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

January is School Board Appreciation Month and we asked our board members to share a little about themselves.
Brian Maune is married with 6 children and enjoys family time filled with camping weekends both in and out of state. He also enjoys being outdoors for hunting and fishing recreation.
One thing he's learned during COVID is that he and his wife are not blessed with stay-at-home virtual teaching skills. Those kids had to be back in school. He's very thankful for PCSSD teachers!
Thank you, Briane, for your dedication to PCSSD!
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

January is School Board Appreciation Month and we asked our board members to share a little about themselves.
Shelby Thomas, board vice president, has been married for 26 years with 4 kids, 1 son in law and 1 daughter in law. he has 1 grandson with another on the way!
He enjoys playing golf whenever he can find find free time.
One thing he's learned this year that he really likes to cook. During lockdown in 2020, he spent a lot of time cooking for my family. Just call him the "grill master."
Thank you, Shelby, for your dedication to PCSSD!
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

January is School Board Appreciation Month and we asked our board members to share a little about themselves.
Dr. Linda Remele, board president, is married with one son, one step-son, 2 granddaughters and 5 cats.
Her greatest pleasure in retirement is volunteering, especially at McPherson Women’s prison, Care Channel and at Sylvan Hills Middle.
One thing she's learned during COVID, is to reach out to your family and friends to keep in touch since you can’t see them in person. This pandemic is hard for all people at all ages.
Thank you, Dr. Remele, for your dedication to PCSSD!
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

REMINDER: all student lunches are FREE through the rest of the school year. The USDA waiver allows all students to be served meals free of cost through June 30, 2021. More details can be found on our website:
http://ow.ly/xmCG50D5wHH #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Superintendent Dr. Charles McNulty addresses the rise in COVID-19 cases in Arkansas and how the district handles pivoting decisions.
Video: https://youtu.be/wWncdFFYH1s
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Cato Elementary music teacher, Mrs. Wickless, didn't let COVID keep the students from their Christmas/Holiday performance!..Thank you Mrs. Wickless and Cato students for all your hard work!..Hope you enjoy the performances! Merry Christmas/Happy Holidays from Cato Elementary!!
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1tl9ks0ya0edBFVTp0foxNYpBTS_zps-CsQ2JoecysCc/edit?usp=sharing

Merry Christmas / Happy Holidays from Cato Elementary!! Created by: Art teacher, Terri Kassner..
https://youtu.be/z30_Ul0J5-o

Sending out a GREAT BIG THANK YOU to PE teacher: Coach Turner; Art teacher; Mrs. Kassner and Music teacher; Mrs. Wickless for agreeing to do this for Mrs. Bryan, teacher librarian during our '5 Days of Holiday Read Aloud'...I hope you enjoy listening to it as much as we have..You can find some activities to go along with the book on your child's Library Learning Schoology Course. Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DmLs7AZPyIdSjl7WmVGzTXY1Sr3KYQwQ/view?usp=sharing

The Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub, Winrock International, & PCSSD are partnering to challenge students to be innovators. This event challenges students across Arkansas in the field of science & technology.
https://www.pcssd.org/article/363066?org=pcssd
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

The Little Rock Zoo is opening their Zoofari Virtual Winter Break Camp this December so that students can continue learning while away from school for a couple of weeks. Find out more information at: https://www.pcssd.org/article/355473?org=pcssd
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Looking for fun, socially distanced holiday activities? Check out this list of places to see holiday lights in central Arkansas from Little Rock Family: https://www.littlerockfamily.com/post/27930/places-to-see-holiday-lights-in-central-arkansas

The Arkansas Department of Education is partnering with Nettleton STEAM School in Jonesboro to offer Arkansas students a unique opportunity to witness a conversation with astronauts aboard the International Space Station. Learn more about the event here:
http://adecm.arkansas.gov/ViewApprovedMemo.aspx?Id=4606

Academies of Central Arkansas hosted its inaugural career exposure event for freshmen this week. We're thankful to businesses who exhibited virtually to speak with our students about career opportunities.We're proud to partner with Little Rock School District North Little Rock School District Jacksonville North Pulaski School District for this endeavor!
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Dr. Monica Meadows is a Gifted & Talented Facilitator at College Station & Daisy Bates elementaries. She is helping other educators reach students from low-income homes by contributing to a new book, "Unlocking Potential."
https://www.pcssd.org/article/355379?org=pcssd
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

The Little Rock Zoo is opening their Zoofari Virtual Winter Break Camp this December so that students can continue learning while away from school for a couple of weeks. Find out more information at: https://www.pcssd.org/article/355473?org=pcssd
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

PCSSD will offer a full-time, 100% online school for students in K-12 next school year (different than our virtual template this year). DRIVEN Virtual Academy will provide flexibility with self-paced options, mentoring programs, and more. If you are interested in DRIVEN Virtual Academy, please complete this survey: https://forms.gle/7QyEFXtzrcec8kMFA
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

According to Classlink, all logins into the PCSSD portal are now working. Classlink identified the issue and will continue to monitor the system. Thank you for your patience this morning!
Status Updates: https://status.classlink.com/#

PCSSD Portal / Classlink Update: The Classlink team is still working with AWS. Several other sites are experiencing similar issues with error code 500. We will continue to update you on our progress. https://status.classlink.com/#

Several elementary schools held mock elections last week to teach students about registering to vote and casting their ballot. Check out these pictures of students learning about their civic duty: http://ow.ly/CxJt50Cbzon
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Scholastic Book Fair is coming November 9-22..Please purchase your child some books to read at home! Books purchased will be shipped to your home...
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/153fe8TDdJWn7QnigdpnWm_KVMnNzfQ-vGdhKZ5vvb4M/edit?usp=sharing

ICYMI: Mandy Hrach KATV spoke with PCSSD about the upcoming launch of Driven Virtual ACademy. This all virtual K-12 school will be a part of PCSSD and will open for 2021-2022 registration in January 2021. http://ow.ly/qYL950C5kWU #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Pulaski County Special School District will present its Annual Report to the Public during the regularly scheduled November Board Meeting.
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2020
Location: PCSSD Central Office Boardroom
Time: 6:00 pm

Earlier this month, schools across the district officially kicked off PBIS: positive behavior interventions and supports. Students can cash in "good behavior" points for prizes throughout the year.
PBIS details: http://ow.ly/nue050C3f0V
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

This is School Bus Safety Week, and the PCSSD Transportation Department is providing some safety tips throughout the week for our bus riding students.
https://youtu.be/-InxhLvLd4E
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

This is School Bus Safety Week, and the PCSSD Transportation Department is providing some safety tips throughout the week for our bus riding students.
https://youtu.be/a4DfjTwaPe4
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

This is School Bus Safety Week, and the PCSSD Transportation Department is providing some safety tips throughout the week for our bus riding students.
https://youtu.be/XaW5txzN1y4
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

This is School Bus Safety Week, and the PCSSD Transportation Department is providing some safety tips throughout the week for our bus riding students.
http://ow.ly/gqKr50BWOc7
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

ICYMI: The charter authorizing panel approved for PCSSD to launch an all-virtual school in the 2021 school year. DRIVEN Virtual Academy has been in the works for 5 years, but comes at pivotal time in education. Details: http://ow.ly/uyrQ50BWA59 #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

This is School Bus Safety Week, and the PCSSD Transportation Department is providing some safety tips throughout the week for our bus riding students.
https://youtu.be/EDP00aHrEYo
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Arkansas Department of Education extended the USDA waiver allowing all students to be served meals free of cost for the remainder of the 2020-2021 school year. This means every PCSSD student will receive free breakfast & lunch this school year. http://ow.ly/uY3S50BTCJy #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

PCSSD Board of Education presented the Q1 Inspiration in Education Award award to Juanita Croon, Helpdesk Manager for the district’s IT department at Tuesday night's meeting. We're all so thankful for Juanita's hard work! http://ow.ly/yGvI50BSBM1 #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

PCSSD Special Education department will host a virtual transition fair next Tuesday, October 20. Transition fairs provide resources about the transition from high school to adulthood. Details online: http://ow.ly/tcoB50BQjiE #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Arkansas Department of Education has a new educational tool for families and teachers called the Social Media Awareness Campaign (SMACtalk) to ensure we all work together to keep students healthy and safe while they learn and socialize online.
https://www.pcssd.org/article/324154?org=pcssd
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Exciting News!
We are having our official kick-off for AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) this Wednesday, October 14th. AVID helps students become more organized and teaches writing strategies for our third through fifth-grade students.
We are inviting all students and teachers to celebrate the kick-off to AVID by wearing any college t-shirt (Razorback, etc.) or a Cato t-shirt this Wednesday.

Parents across the district now have access to the Schoology Parent Portal. The following videos to help you walk through the portal as well as the app.
Schoology Parent Tutorial: https://youtu.be/Wusadq_agCo
Schoology App: https://youtu.be/_YHEGyPxxJA
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

To maintain a positive, productive learning environment and assure confidentiality for students and teachers during distance learning, all parents/guardians are asked to follow the following privacy guidelines. Parents/guardians should email your child’s principal with any questions or concerns regarding privacy or virtual classroom expectations.
Printable PDF available here: https://5il.co/lynw

Schoology is back up and running without issue. However, there might still be issues with logging into Classlink. You can continue to monitor updates here: https://status.classlink.com/

Classlink and Schoology are experiencing issues nationwide. We are hopeful that both will be running at full capacity soon. You can monitor updates on the following websites:
Schoology: https://status.schoology.com/
Classlink: https://status.classlink.com/

McFarland Eye Care is hosting a free eye care day this Saturday (October 3) at their Little Rock and Pine Bluff locations. This is for new and existing patients to provide eye care that might have been delayed due to COVID-19. http://ow.ly/Pr4850BFBY8
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Great news! Our chromebook insurance partner has reopened the portal to enroll. Sign up for chromebook insurance for just $35 for the school year. Deadline is October 31!
More info: https://5il.co/jewe
Link to enroll: https://schooldevicecoverage.com/signup
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Important Message from Principal Lee concerning School Attendance!!
September 29, 2020
Dear Parents & Guardians:
I am sharing this Attendance Information with you to clarify how attendance is taken for students daily.
Traditional Attendance - Students who are enrolled in the traditional option (face-to-face in school daily) will be counted absent if they do not attend school at Cato Elementary on a school day.
Blended Attendance - Students who are enrolled in the blended option (come to school face-to-face (2) days a week and login to complete virtual learning for the days they are not
at school) must attend school on their scheduled days or they will be counted as absent. If students do not login when their teacher directs them to daily they will be counted as absent.
Virtual Attendance - Teachers will count students absent if they do not login to participate in virtual class at a specific time stated by the teacher.
This information should clear up any confusion about school attendance. I want to reinforce that students cannot login when they want to receive credit for attendance.
Thank you for your support and have a great day!
Sincerely,
Principal Lee

Great news! Our chromebook insurance partner has reopened the portal to enroll. Sign up for chromebook insurance for just $35 for the school year. Deadline is October 31!
More info: https://5il.co/jewe
Link to enroll: https://schooldevicecoverage.com/signup

Several central office employees received a special award for a "job well done" from fellow employee, Fred Austin. As part of his "DARE 2 B" program, Fred recognizes employees for their hard work and dedication to students. Thank you Crain Team for helping with the awards. #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

IMPORTANT MESSAGE FOR CATO ELEMENTARY VIRTUAL K-2 PARENTS...for those who did not pick up headphones and toolkits!
Hello, Cato family. We miss you! All K-2 students will take a state-mandated assessment starting September 21. We have set up another time for you to come to Cato to pick up headphones and to sign a security agreement. Please come by Cato Elementary school this Thursday or Friday, September 17th or 18th, anytime from 12 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.Since your child is taking the test at home, training is being provided by your child’s teacher. If you are unable to attend the training, please look for a recording of the training. If you have questions, please call Kim Ballard or Jennifer Kimbrell at 234-5918. Thank you and take care.

The first NWEA MAP growth assessment begins this week. These evaluations guide teachers on how to help students continue to learn. We've added a section on our website with tips for traditional and virtual students: http://ow.ly/im1K50BqlZM #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Message for K-2 Virtual Students (Cato Kids)
Hello, Cato family. We miss you! All K-2 students will take a state-mandated assessment starting September 21. Please come by Cato Elementary school this Tuesday, September 15th, anytime from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. to pick up headphones and to sign a security agreement. Since your child is taking the test at home, training is being provided by your child’s teacher. If you are unable to attend the training, please look for a recording of the training. If you have questions, please call Kim Ballard or Jennifer Kimbrell at 234-5918. Thank you and take care.

Labor Day constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country. https://www.dol.gov/general/laborday/history #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Great news for our PCSSD families: we are now able to offer FREE meals thanks to a recent USDA waiver. That means our virtual, blended and traditional students can eat breakfast & lunch for free through Dec. 31! http://ow.ly/GmaQ50Bh7HE #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

PCSSD will be open for regular business hours tomorrow (Friday, Aug. 28). Schools will operate on their normal Friday schedule (which includes blended Group B students). Extended care and athletic activities will resume tomorrow as well. #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Central Arkansas is expected to feel the impact of Hurricane Laura tomorrow. Based on the most current weather updates, the heaviest impact is expected between 3-4pm. Therefore, PCSSD will dismiss school early on Thursday, August 27. Elementary schools will dismiss at 11:30am and Secondary schools will dismiss at 1:00pm. Dismissal times are for both car and bus riders. District offices will dismiss at 1pm as well. There will be no district athletics events on Thursday, August 27. No decision has been made about school or athletic activities for Friday at this time.

SCHOOLOGY UPDATE: Rachel Blackwell, Digital Learning Facilitator for PCSSD, offers another walk through of what Schoology looks like for students, starting with the log-in process to the student portal. #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence
http://ow.ly/J3U850B8ZV1

Important information for Cato Elementary 4th and 5th Grade Virtual Students..https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1JKCCe0BiGpLBzjJtGcg82TuLmLeScDiMTiEfuTl6w1w/edit?usp=sharing

Important information for Cato Elementary Kindergarten Virtual students:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1J0ZehmTaHPhqTOzBVyXo5zcbm2AkTRau/view?usp=sharing

Ellie Miller, a parent of 6 children wrote this poem earlier this month for @thrive. Mrs. Miller states in the article that, regardless of options, there isn’t a parent who won’t relate to the words of this poem. http://ow.ly/Issp50B6w5T
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Rachel Blackwell, Digital Learning Facilitator, walks through Schoology for students. This is a first look at a student account as the school year begins and courses are added.
VIDEO: https://youtu.be/y0JY3DjwITg
WEB INFO: https://www.pcssd.org/o/pcssd/page/educational-approach
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Hey Parents! Here's more info on Schoology. This Parent Guide is packed with detailed explanations of different features, tools and step-by-step walkthroughs. This guide is designed to help you better understand Schoology. https://support.schoology.com/hc/en-us/articles/201000873-Parent-Guide #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

PCSSD will use Schoology as its Learning Management System (LMS) this school year. Students can submit assignments, review grades, engage in interactive discussions, take tests, and more. Check out this video for more info: https://vimeo.com/46433066 #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

The 2020-2021 bell schedule is now available on the school website: https://cato.pcssd.org/o/cato-elementary/page/school-information--150

12 schools in PCSSD are approved to participate in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) program. CEP provides meals, regardless of eligibility category, at NO CHARGE for students at these schools! Read more here: https://www.pcssd.org/article/282080?org=pcssd #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Parents & Guardians,
If you have not completed the survey for instructional options provided by the district, please note that your child will be placed in the blended option.
You may fill out the form by going to the link below...this is only for those who have not already completed it.
https://forms.gle/WfNdYLd9dMGpkZXN7
Mrs. Lee, Principal

Baptist Health Community Outreach is offering back-to-school immunization clinics in Little Rock throughout the month of August. Check out the schedule on our website: https://www.pcssd.org/article/279757?org=pcssd
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Device Pickup Procedures for Cato Students
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1eo5-iaOtQvuzn6sPjIyJEMS6wMh0_SRGh4RT6I0gfnY/edit?usp=sharing

The revised district calendar for the 2020-2021 school year has been posted on the district website and all school websites. This is a DRAFT version as it must still be approved by the Board of Education, but we wanted to share with you now for planning.
You can find it here: https://www.pcssd.org/o/pcssd/events

REMINDER: Parents, please select one instructional option for each child who attends a PCSSD school. Responses must be completed by Friday, July 24 at 5 p.m. New students should complete this report, too!
https://forms.gle/6eH77dqk2RjVuiBP8

Kids are never too young to learn about diversity. To help broaden understanding of our black community, here is this week's resource as a helpful starting point: what you can learn from a box of crayons! http://ow.ly/fzy850AzBFd #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Superintendent Dr. Charles McNulty and Deputy Superintendent Ms. Alesia Smith visited Salem Media this week to talk about the Roadmap to Reopening. Listen to the segment on Rejoice Little Rock at the 35 minute mark: http://ow.ly/pUrl50AxuOR
#pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

PCSSD is conducting a FINAL SURVEY to plan for the 2020-2021 academic year. Parents will select one instructional option for each child for the year. Parents MUST fill out one survey for each child who attends a PCSSD school. This survey must be completed by Friday, July 24 at 5 p.m. https://forms.gle/93BL5azfHWUuUkUq9
If you're new to PCSSD, please fill out this survey as well!

PCSSD will host a community meeting to discuss what coming back to school could and should look like this fall. Tune in Wednesday, July 1 at 8:30 am to hear from PCSSD community stakeholders.
MEETING LINK: https://youtu.be/SXHRjEg8tgs

On Monday, June 29, PCSSD food partner, ECO Kidz, will distribute a 6-day meal box. This will cover meals for June 29 - July 3 and Monday, July 6). There will be a meal service delivery on Tuesday, July 7 with a 2-day box and Thursday, July 9 with a 2-day box. We will resume regular Monday(3-day box) and Thursday (2-day box) pickup on Monday, July 13.

NOW HIRING! PCSSD has more than 50 job openings right now. Check out the openings to see if there's something that might be a good fit for you. http://ow.ly/ogZ150AhBkS

PCSSD is following up on a previous survey sent earlier this month. Your responses to the survey are crucial as we plan for staffing, logistics, and safety precautions. The following survey is REQUIRED for all students. Parents must fill out one survey for each child who attends a PCSSD school. Please complete the survey by 5 p.m. on Friday, June 26. The survey has also been emailed to all parents.
SURVEY: https://forms.gle/ALwVFMm6ePb36mz57

Buildings may be closed, but registration is still open! Families with students returning to PCSSD must register. Registration information can be found online at pcssd.org/register. If you have questions, please contact Yolanda Richards at yrichards@pcssd.org.

The Little Rock Zoo is offering both virtual and on-grounds Zoofari camps this summer to provide fun-filled and educational programming for children. The camp is specifically geared toward elementary-aged children, but is fun for the whole family. https://www.pcssd.org/article/258066?org=pcssd

The Little Rock Zoo is offering both virtual and on-grounds Zoofari camps this summer to provide fun-filled and educational programming for children. The camp is specifically geared toward elementary-aged children, but is fun for the whole family. https://www.pcssd.org/article/258066?org=pcssd

For many kids, wearing a mask might seem uncomfortable and scary. UAMS created book to help children adjust to why it's important to wear mask. It even includes activities to do with younger children.
https://view.publitas.com/uams-1/my-teacher-wears-a-mask/page/1

Message from Principal Lee regarding report cards:
*Report Cards for K-1 were emailed to the parents through SchoolStatus.
*Report Cards for 2nd-5th grade can be accessed through HAC just like the 3rd nine weeks.
*The 4th nine weeks grades were reported as CREDIT or NO CREDIT per PCSSD grading policy.
We hope you enjoy your summer!!

Cato Elementary: Year in review: 2019-2020
Have a GREAT summer!!
https://bit.ly/3eGZGkv

Superintendent Dr. Charles McNulty and Shawn Burgess, assistant superintendent for human resources, discuss what it will look like for PCSSD to reopen for students in fall 2020.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=idmzAgdSNdE #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Congratulations to all our students from the superintendent's Cabinet at PCSSD! You are officially finished with the 2019-2020 school year. Check out this message of appreciation for you as head into summer break. https://youtu.be/1SlonalhXOU #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Congratulations Cato Elementary 5th Grade!! We are so proud of you and all you have accomplished this year! We know you will do great things next year in middle school! Enjoy this small celebration of your time at Cato! Put together by Mrs. Wickless..
https://bit.ly/3eaY2Y1

REMINDER!!
Please find attached procedures for turning in library books and devices...Some important things to make sure of: 1. STAY in vehicle 2. Have chromebooks fully charged.. 3. Empty chromebook bags of everything except the charger and chromebook... 4. Put your child's name on a piece of paper and tape to passenger side window(so it can be easily read by teacher with walkie talkie) 5. Place all things (library books and devices) being returned to school in the passenger side of the car, so teacher can easily get to them.. 6. Your child's belongings will be brought out to you. Thank you so much for assisting us in making this process as safe as possible for all involved. Principal, Shyrel Lee

Cato Elementary staff missed ending the year with our students at school and in our classrooms. We're so proud of all of our students for their hard work this year. We can't wait to see everyone in the fall!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9bpcQ6rUU8g&feature=youtu.be

Five Pulaski County Special School District teachers are newly certified from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. https://www.pcssd.org/article/246726?org=pcssd #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Please find attached procedures for turning in library books and devices...Some important things to make sure of:
1. STAY in vehicle
2. Have chromebooks fully charged..
3. Empty chromebook bags of everything except the charger and chromebook...
4. Put your child's name on a piece of paper and tape to passenger side window(so it can be easily read by teacher with walkie talkie)
5. Place all things (library books and devices) being returned to school in the passenger side of the car, so teacher can easily get to them..
6. Your child's belongings will be brought out to you.
Thank you so much for assisting us in making this process as safe as possible for all involved.
Principal, Shyrel Lee

Some elementary teacher librarians in PCSSD participated in the "pass the book" challenge. The goal of this challenge is to support reading and get readers engaged. What is your favorite book you've read during quarantine? http://ow.ly/QBKH50zyAU2 #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Some elementary teacher librarians in Pulaski County Special School District participated in the "pass the book" challenge. The goal of this challenge is to support reading and get readers engaged. Enjoy! https://youtu.be/kAc_tFJVQ-c

In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week, Cabinet sent us messages of thanks for their teachers. Check out the messages. **Thank you, teachers!** #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yRcs6j3vrx8&feature=youtu.be

Parents, if you have not registered your child for next year please do so now. Go to the PCSSD Home Page under registration. There you will complete information for returning students. Your child will not have access to technology and other needed learning resources if they are not registered. Finally, we need to know who is returning to prepare class schedules and assignments. Thank you.

Cato Elementary appreciates each and every one of our teachers. During Teacher Appreciation Week, a few of our students wanted to share a message of thanks just for you!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q536NUj1rU8&list=PLmQKbLpVDHMnkez_ijC8oD3JAbQQNBQFF&index=22

Parents, if you have not registered your child for next year please do so now. Go to the PCSSD Home Page under registration. There you will complete information for returning students. Your child will not have access to technology and other needed learning resources if they are not registered. Finally, we need to know who is returning to prepare class schedules and assignments. Thank you.

P.E. coaches from elementary schools across the district share a few words of encouragement for their students. Let's stay active and keep on moving! http://ow.ly/TYkK50ztHRY #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Parents, if you have not registered your child for next year please do so now. Go to the PCSSD Home Page under registration. There you will complete information for returning students. Your child will not have access to technology and other needed learning resources if they are not registered. Finally, we need to know who is returning to prepare class schedules and assignments. Thank you.

Parents, if you have not registered your child for next year please do so now. Go to the PCSSD Home Page under registration. There you will complete information for returning students. Your child will not have access to technology and other needed learning resources if they are not registered. Finally, we need to know who is returning to prepare class schedules and assignments. Thank you.

Parents, if you have not registered your child for next year please do so now. Go to the PCSSD Home Page under registration. There you will complete information for returning students. Your child will not have access to technology and other needed learning resources if they are not registered. Finally, we need to know who is returning to prepare class schedules and assignments. Thank you.

Parents, if you have not registered your child for next year please do so now. Go to the PCSSD Home Page under registration. There you will complete information for returning students. Your child will not have access to technology and other needed learning resources if they are not registered. Finally, we need to know who is returning to prepare class schedules and assignments. Thank you.

P.E. coaches from elementary schools across the district share a few words of encouragement for their students. Let's stay active and keep on moving! http://ow.ly/TYkK50ztHRY #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

Parents, if you have not registered your child for next year please do so now. Go to the PCSSD Home Page under registration. There you will complete information for returning students. Your child will not have access to technology and other needed learning resources if they are not registered. Finally, we need to know who is returning to prepare class schedules and assignments. Thank you.

Parents, if you have not registered your child for next year please do so now. Go to the PCSSD Home Page under registration. There you will complete information for returning students. Your child will not have access to technology and other needed learning resources if they are not registered. Finally, we need to know who is returning to prepare class schedules and assignments. Thank you.

Superintendent Dr. Charles McNulty explains the approach to updating the grading policy for students in PCSSD. Students and parents, watch the video to hear more about the reason for the change. https://youtu.be/tFiIWVNTTy4

Superintendent Dr. Charles McNulty explains the approach to updating the grading policy for students in PCSSD. Students and parents, watch the video to hear more about the reason for the change. https://youtu.be/tFiIWVNTTy4

Spirit Week at Cato Elementary
April 20-24
https://bit.ly/3bD7kv9
Please send photos to lbryan@pcssd.org

Message to Cato Parents:
Just want you to know that Cato teachers and I truly miss seeing your child’s face! This is a very different time in your child’s school experience but it is important that you know we care about your child and you!
Last week we initiated PCSSD elementary block schedule. I encourage you to make sure your child is connected to learning daily. It is important that your child continues to learn during this time so when school opens he/she will be ready.
Your child will receive a grade for his/her participation. That means it is important for your child to complete assignments in the AMI Packet or log-in to complete lessons on their Chromebook or iPad daily. Grades will be given regarding your child’s participation and completion of assignments. Again, grades will be given based on your child’s participation and efforts to complete assignments. If your child has a problem with their AMI packet, contact our literacy and math coaches at (https://5il.co/ew2i); look for Mrs. Duncan and Mrs. Ballard’s numbers. If your child has a device and needs support make sure you connect with your child’s teacher.
Finally, we are here for you and your child! Please contact us when needed. Stay healthy, stay safe and stay in.
Sincerely,
Principal Lee

Superintendent Dr. Charles McNulty provides an update on the AMI instructional calendar for the remainder of the year. Pay attention the dates - there are differences for seniors and K-11 students. https://youtu.be/Oacm5U-vBJQ #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

This message is to inform you that if you have not picked up your child's AMI Packet you can get it from one of the boxes at the front entrance at Cato. Use the URL (https:5il.co/ew2i) if your child needs help from our Literacy and/or Math
Coaches.

Arkansas Activities Association extended the "COVID-19 Dead Period" for all AAA member schools through May 30, 2020. This means that all teams are not allowed to practice, lift weights together, play games, or travel to competition. Athletic facilities are also closed. Spring sports competition remains suspended.

Cato Teachers and Staff want to say that we truly miss our Cato Students
https://bit.ly/3aOWMZv

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS FOR AMI INSTRUCTION: We understand that many families may experience challenges in scheduling. The most important expectation is completing and submitting assignments as close as possible to when they are due. Teachers will offer digital face to face lessons with students 2-4 days per week. Students should make an effort to attend live instruction. Sessions will be recorded. Download suggested student expectations and AMI schedules here: https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/652100/cato-ami.pdf

The Maumelle Fire Department is turning to Facebook to show students and families some of their equipment this morning! Firefighters are broadcasting at 10 a.m. and will display their state-of-the-art firetrucks, gear, and the firehouse. It is a great opportunity for students to learn about their community and those who serve and protect everyday. #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

PCSSD will prepare and distribute meals all week at 20 different locations around the county. Pick up times for the meals will be 11:30am - 12:30pm. Reminder, these are only for children (18 & under) present at pick up. Full list can be found here: http://ow.ly/dP9N50z0mrm.

Don't forget, AETN (Arkansas PBS) is providing in-home learning & activities w/ PBS KIDS educational programming starting today. Sign up for educational support: http://ow.ly/aNsN50yUEIe & check out more online resources: http://ow.ly/tQeY50yUEQU #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

A message from Superintendent Dr.Charles McNulty: He clarifies next steps for seniors, outlines 4th quarter grading and explains how PCSSD will continue to operate as AMI days start back up on Monday, March 30. https://youtu.be/JmdcwXNDqiE

Message from Principal Lee
March 18, 2020
Dear Cato Families:
I hope you are doing well during this time. It is important for me to reach out to you to say thank you for your support and partnering with our Cato Team to keep your child engaged in learning and growing.
All classroom teachers, Mrs. Bryan, Mrs. Duncan, Mrs. Ballard, and Mrs. Wickless are interacting with your child and sending resources for them to use daily. Please continue to monitor your students' academics by ensuring that they are completing daily assignments found in the AMI packets and Google classrooms. Students have access to their Lexia and Dreambox accounts. Your child knows the expectations and must complete at least 20 minutes of Lexia and Dreambox lessons daily. Completing assignments and reading will sustain their academic progress. That is what we want at this time.
It is vitally important that your child sticks to a schedule to complete assignments, have physical activity, read at least 20 minute per day, enjoy free time with family and do what they enjoy doing. Please help monitor your child’s usage while completing online assignments.
Again, thank you for your support and allowing our Cato Team to educate your child.
Take care and be safe!
Mrs. Lee

We know AMI days can be difficult. How's the homework coming along? How are you staying entertained? From homework to box forts, let us know and we'll share your pictures! You can tag us in a post or email them to communication@pcssd.org. #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

PCSSD Nutrition and Transportation are teaming up to deliver meals to 21 drop off sites this week between 11:30am - 12:30pm from Tuesday, March 17 thru Friday, March 20. These meals are for children ages 18 and under. http://ow.ly/Oary50yNkG7

We are providing the latest updates on COVID-19 on our website here: http://ow.ly/Ct8z50yM19E. We'll have information regarding AMI assignments, food availability, and more.

March is Women's History Month. Ruth Hawkins is a strong advocate for historic preservation and heritage tourism in the Delta. The Arkansas State University Heritage Sites program has grown under her leadership. She was inducted into the Arkansas Women's Hall of Fame in 2017.

STATEMENT 3/3: Thank you for understanding our decision to follow the Governor's orders.

STATEMENT 2/3: In a statement on Wednesday, March 11, it was announced that Governor Hutchinson has the sole authority to close public school campuses. PCSSD will continue to work closely with state offices and health departments as we monitor the progress of COVID-19.

STATEMENT 1/3: Per direction by the Governor of Arkansas, Pulaski County Special School District will be closed until March 30. The decision came after an increase in the number of COVID-19 cases across the nation.

Registration is now open for students *RETURNING* to PCSSD for the 2020-2021 school year. Registration can be done online through the registration portal: https://pcssd-cas.hosted.src-solutions.com/cas_PulaskiCountySSD/login

Congratulations to PCSSD athletic director, Danny Ebbs, on his selection to be placed into the Arkansas Activities Association Arkansas High School Coaches Association Hall of Fame. What an honor! Congrats, Danny! http://ow.ly/IFMA50y45kT

If you would like to send your child to PCSSD, registration is now open for the 2020-2021 school year! All the registration info can be found online at http://ow.ly/430u50xUd8h or by visiting your school's registrar's office.

Due to a power outage in the area, Sylvan Hills NORTH campus and Cato Elementary will dismiss at 11:30 a.m. today. Buses riders will depart at 11:30 and car riders can be picked up at this time. This will be an AMI day.

UALR is hosting a Community Night of Coding Monday (Dec. 9) from 5-8pm in the EIT building. There will be workshops and demos, Hour of Code activities for all ages, computer science hands-on demos and more! Register here: http://ow.ly/jkGC50xtGPE

The Sylvan Hills High School Concert Choir is performing with the Little Rock Wind Symphony Dec. 5 at UA-Pulaski Tech CHARTS Theater at 7:30 p.m. The choir will perform with the symphony on a medley of Christmas tunes from Broadway and perform a pop a capella arrangement of “Do You Hear What I Hear” by Michelle Wier. Get your tickets at: http://charts.uaptc.edu/events #pcssdproud #equityandexcellence

PCSSD schools held grand re-openings on Tuesday to change the name of our school Media Centers to Library Learning Centers. Check out all the cool pictures of the new looks: http://ow.ly/jMbY50x3awq

REMINDER: Schools are closed Wednesday - Friday for teacher and leadership professional development. See you Monday, Nov. 4!

Don't forget that students get a little fall break NEXT week. Schools are closed Wednesday (Oct. 30) - Friday (Nov. 1) for districtwide professional development. You can find all district events on the website: https://www.pcssd.org/o/pcssd/events

We have a hero at CATO ELEMENTARY! 5th grade teacher, Wendy Sanabria, performed the heimlich on a student who was choking on a piece of granola during breakfast last week. We are so thankful that she took action and the student is safe!

Red Ribbon Week Celebrations:
Monday: “We are the Future: Let’s Make it Drug Free”-
Wear college tshirt, military ambition or profession
Tuesday: “I’m a Jean-ius”-
Wear blue jeans, red shirt, and crazy socks
Wednesday: “Hunter for Friends Who Don’t Do Drugs”-
Wear Camouflage
Thursday: “Be on a Drug Free Team”-
Wear favorite team jersey or t-shirt
Friday: “Together We Turn the World Pink” Breast Cancer Awareness-
Wear PINK shirts

**ATTENTION** Phones are down at several PCSSD schools and admin offices. Our IT department is working with Windstream to resolve the issue. You track the outage here: https://downdetector.com/status/windstream/map/

October is National Bullying Prevention Month. The National Bullying Prevention Center provides a "Kids Against Bullying" pledge encouraging kids to speak up against bullying, support those being bullied & to be a friend when they see bullying. http://ow.ly/snaM50wEVmm

The calendar can now be found in EVENTS. Important district-wide dates will be posted on the PCSSD website. School-specific dates will be posted on their respective school websites. You can view the "At-A-Glance" calendar here: https://5il.co/amrb

We’re thrilled to announce Pulaski County Special School District‘s new app! It’s everything PCSSD, in your pocket. Download the app on Android: http://bit.ly/2IcfiP3 or iPhone: https://apple.co/30qo7uT.

We celebrate Fri-Yay every 2 weeks for the kids with enough DoJo points. Will YOU have enough to celebrate this week?

The Health Room is in need of small size girls panties and boys briefs. Please try to donate if possible. Thanks in advance!

Don't forget! The Cato Elementary Fundraiser begins this week! Check out the great deals and let's raise some money for our school!

I hope your day is going well!

I hope all is having a great morning!