Knight News from York Academy

Knight News

September 27, 2019

CEO Corner

Hello York Academy Families:

We have noticed that a number of Lower School students are being dropped off outside of the closed gates before they open at 7:30 a.m. This has presented some important safety concerns, since these children are unaccompanied while they are outside near the street.

We encourage all parents to use the drop off lane that is accessible from N. Cherry Lane by Gay Avenue or N. Street in front of the school. Please note that parents may not park in the Warehaus lot across from the school entrance because York Academy no longer has access to that space.

Let's all work together to keep our students safe and make morning drop off run smoothly!

Warm regards,

Angela Sugarek

Student Spotlight

Congratulations to ninth grader Fabiola , who was chosen as our "Student Spotlight." Fabiola was nominated for embodying the IB attribute of being open-minded. Open-minded individuals appreciate their own cultures and personal histories, as well as the values and traditions of others. They seek and evaluate a range of points of view, and are willing to grow from their experiences.

Fabiola is a curious and enthusiastic learner who always approaches new concepts with interest and a growth mindset. She is a respectful, active listener who is kind to her teachers and classmates, thoughtful in her work, and goes above and beyond to take care of the classroom, while creating a positive learning environment. Way to go, Fabiola. Keep it up!

Staff Shoutout

Second grade teacher Keri Schmid was nominated for displaying the IB attribute of being caring. Caring individuals show empathy, compassion and respect. They have a commitment to service and act to make a positive difference in the lives of others and the world around them.

Everything Ms. Schmid does is for someone else - or if it isn't - she takes full consideration of how her actions might impact the people around her before she acts. She is kind-hearted and deeply cares for her students. Ms. Schmid shows interest in their home and school lives, while creating strong bonds with their parents/guardians. As an example, while recently dealing with the stress of moving to a new home, she thought only of her colleagues and students. Her nominee notes, "Ms. Schmid is the model we should all aspire to be!" Thank you for being such a wonderful example for our students and families, Ms. Schmid. You are appreciated!

Uniform Store Closes on Monday Night

The York Academy Online Uniform Store is open through Monday, September 30 at midnight. School approved shirts and gym uniforms are available for purchase. The orders will be delivered by October 18.

Please note that the School Spirit Store will open by early November. We will share those dates with you as soon as possible.

PTO Updates & Events

The next PTO Meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 1 at 6 p.m. in the Lower School Media Center (3rd floor). Come learn about the ways our PTO is making a difference and find out how you can get involved! Free childcare will be provided in the multipurpose room.

The first PTO Dress Down Day is set for Friday, October 18 and the PTO Skating Party (K-5) is scheduled on Wednesday, October 23 . Details about both events will be included in the next newsletter and on social media .

Parents' Night Out

Mrs. Chester and Upper School members of the National Art Honor Society (NAHS) are hosting “Parents’ Night Out" on Friday, October 4 . This event will be held at the Upper School from 6 - 9 p.m.

While you go to dinner during First Friday, catch a movie or chill, your children will play games in the Wagman Gym and enjoy (peanut free) snacks while they watch The Lego Movie 2: Second Part (PG) in the Dennis P. Baughman Center for Creative Excellence.

Students and their friends in grades K-7 are invited to join us for this fundraiser, which supports the NAHS spring field trip. Thank you in advance for your support of the visual arts at York Academy!

School Calendar Reminders

Thursday, October 10 is an early dismissal and School Spirit Day. Lower School students will dismiss at 12:15 p.m. and Upper School students will dismiss at 12:30 p.m. Please note that there is no school for students on Friday, October 11 and Monday, October 14.

On School Spirit Days when there is an early dismissal, students may express their YARCS pride at no cost . They can wear York Academy or college-themed shirts/sweatshirts and school appropriate jeans, shorts or skirts. Please help make sure your student exercises good judgment. Learn about the expectations regarding school appropriate attire.

School pictures coming up soon! Lower School pictures are set for Wednesday, October 9 and Upper School picture day is Wednesday, October 16 . Students may dress nicely and are not required to wear school uniforms for the photos.

MYP Fall Play: The Heart of a Lovebird

Our students are having a great time at rehearsals for the first MYP Fall Play. "The Heart of a Lovebird" is locally written by Dave Karchmak and his daughter. Mr. Karchmak has been providing tips and answering questions about the characters during practices. This is a unique experience for our students, since it's not often that actors have the opportunity to work with playwrights!

Here's a short synopsis of the plot: Kelsey and her siblings play a new game called Scitor The Invincible. Unable to beat it, they’re given a clue to “play by their own power,” or whatever that means. Kelsey is determined to figure it out and find out what her "'power" is. Perhaps the wizard can help?

Our students are working hard and there are even two casts. Please save the dates:

Friday, October 11 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, October 12 at 7 p.m.
Sunday, October 13 at 3 p.m.

The main cast will perform on Friday and Saturday, and the understudies will perform on Sunday. We will share a link to buy tickets online shortly (watch Facebook and our website ). You may also purchase tickets at the door. Please come support the arts at York Academy!

Sabores from York Academy

A Celebration of Hispanic Culture in Our Community

As Hispanic Heritage Month comes to a close, members of the Upper School Student Council will host “Sabores from York Academy” on Tuesday, October 15 from 4 – 6 p.m. Join us in the Upper School Wagman Gym and cafeteria for Latin food, music and activities (making maracas, playing the congas, dancing and more).

We would appreciate if you would bring a Latin dish/item to share. Click here to sign up so we can be sure to have enough food and drinks for everyone. Want to get involved or have a question? Email Mrs. Daniels , our Student Council Advisor and Library Media Specialist . We are also excited to collaborate with some community organizations to make this celebration a great success!

Title 1 Family Night

Camping Themed Fun

York Academy students and family members are invited to our Title 1 Family Night on Wednesday, October 16 from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Come in your PJs and enjoy pizza and camping themed fun! Students will learn math, literacy and technology activities that you can do at home to support their learning. Please note that all students must be supervised during the event.

Students in K-5 who attend will receive a homework pass good for October 16 so they can enjoy the night without having to worry about their homework. They will also be able to dress down on October 17 if they turn in the pass to their teacher that morning. A form is coming home with each student today. You can also view it here . Make sure to return the form by October 4 . Thank you!

Basketball Coaches Needed

We are seeking basketball coaches for the boys and girls teams. Coaching or playing experience is preferred. Candidates must have good communication skills, and be highly structured and organized. The following current clearances are required: PA Criminal, PA Child Abuse and FBI Criminal History Background Check. Learn more and apply now.

Through the IB Lens

The MYP focuses on connecting students' studies to real life. In this video, an MYP teacher and student describe how this approach makes learning more relevant and applicable outside of the classroom.

Learn more about the MYP.