December 10, 2023

A Note from the Director

Dear Families,

This week is winter spirit week and we're looking forward to having some fun alongside our learning as we complete the final week of school before winter break. Scroll down to see the daily themes, starting with tomorrow's "Mismatched Monday."

We shared the inclement weather and gift giving policy email this past week. To be inclusive and fair to all staff members, individual gifts to staff are not encouraged. We suggest a personal "thank you" note to the team, or a contribution to the PTA, which uses the funds for regular staff appreciation events. You can make a contribution in honor of a particular staff member or team. Prior to checking out, click on "fill out form" to write a brief note that will be shared with staff.

Two other reminders: check out the Covid/Seasonal Virus Protection email also sent recently; and some families have inquired about how to find the "2023-2024 Student-Parent Directory." You can access it by logging into Operoo and looking in the Form Library tab.

We're making plans for our IvyMoves theme in January. As always, our initiative aims to help us not only think about the many reasons to stay active but also to get moving! We will have a step challenge, information and resources from the Adaptive PE team, and a community event.

IvyNotes will return on Sunday, January 7. Until then, have a wonderful winter break.

Sincerely,

Susan Holt

NEWS YOU NEED!

Dates to Remember

December 18-29

Winter Break

January 2

Professional Day

No School for Students

January 3

Students Return

January 15

MLK Day

No School for Students or Staff

Top PTA News

January 3-8

Plan to send in or drop off snacks for January 10 staff appreciation event

January 9

Winter PTA Meeting

March 9

St. Patrick's Dance

Scroll down to the PTA section for more information about the snack drive and more.

Dress Up Tomorrow for Spirit Week!

Tomorrow marks the beginning of Winter Spirit Week to count down to winter break. So, start by finding some mismatched clothes and funky patterns for Monday. Follow that up by wearing a jersey or hat from your favorite sports team on Tuesday, mittens/hats for winter wear Wednesday, Ivymount School branded clothes or school colors on Thursday, and PJ's or comfy clothes for Friday. Get ready to show some spirit!

PHS Student Business Sells Soaps & Dog Treats

Post High School students had a chance to show off their wares and practice a variety of skills by hosting a table at a local Holiday Market on Saturday. They joined dozens of local artists and food trucks to sell their handmade dog biscuits and artisan soaps.

The business creates opportunities for students to practice valuable skills like money management and communication, fostering independence and empowerment.

It was a busy day at the market, but the students have a few items still available for sale. These one-of-a-kind creations are perfect gifts for your furry friends or loved ones! Simply visit the Ivymount Barkery and Soapery, where you can place an order that will be delivered via backpack.

Proceeds will be used to purchase more ingredients for future handmade items and to offer community-based opportunities for students.

Purchase Soap & Dog Treats

Students Wrap Up IvyCares With Self-Care

Students in 180 and 182 closed out IvyCares month with a self-care activity. Working as a group, students prepared their own soap mixture, which was then poured into molds to create different shapes. During the activity students practiced following directions and working together.

Fun at the Book Fair

Thank you to families and staff for supporting the Ivymount Book Fair. Enjoy your books!

Apps for Literacy and Learning

Ivymount School's SMART team is always on the lookout for resources to share with families and staff. For families who may be purchasing iPads or other tech devices for their students during the holidays, the team recommends that you check out Reading Rockets, a national public media literacy initiative offering information and resources on how children learn to read, why some students struggle, and ways to help.

Reading Rockets has curated a list of Apps for Literacy and Learning. Check it out and enjoy reading during the winter break!

Donate Winter Clothing

Our Aspire Post High School has launched its Annual Winter Clothing Drive. They are collecting coats, blankets, and winter clothing for men, women, and children from now until February. Items should be new or gently used but in good condition.

The items will be donated to Bethesda Cares, a community outreach program for people experiencing homelessness. The administrative team at Bethesda Cares has told Ivymount staff that it's very grateful to receive donations, noting that its clients need clothing and other essentials throughout the year.

Students have set up a collection box in the front entrance where you can drop off items.

PTA NEWS AND UPDATES

Mark Your Calendar to Donate Snacks for Staff Appreciation

The PTA is kicking off 2024 with a staff appreciation snack bar that will be set up on January 10. Families can donate boxes or bags of nut-free snacks and treats. In addition to individually wrapped store-bought items, homemade snacks and baked goods are welcome. If possible, please individually package homemade items for easier distribution.

Label items “PTA Snack Bar” and send with your student, deliver during drop-off/pickup, or stop in during front desk hours (8 am to 4 pm). Send in snacks starting on Wednesday, January 3 through arrival on Monday, January 8.

Join the St. Patrick's Day Dance Committee

The Ivymount School PTA is excited to host a St. Patrick's Day Dance on March 9, 2024. This dance is open to all programs and ages across the whole school. We are looking for a few volunteers for the Dance Committee to help with planning and coordination.

If you are interested in volunteering, please email Gillian.Economou@gmail.com