Principal's Corner    

A Message from Dr. Beverly N. Lewis, Principal
June 2008
 
Please permit me to thank you for another great school year.  It's hard to believe that the school year will end on Thursday, June 26, 2008.  It has been a wonderful year and I am so proud of the students' and staff's accomplishments.  Special appreciation to the students, parents and staff who are working hard to make the Mahalia Jackson Scholars Academy, the Best School on the Planet.  I am confident that the forthcoming school year will be even more successful.  We are looking forward in continuing our journey to academic excellence.  Best wishes for a safe and enjoyable summer vacation.  Please keep the school informed about your travels and don't forget to send a postcard. 

Be Prepared for the 2008-2009 School Year

Please be reminded that the Mahalia Jackson Academy is a uniform school.  All students are expected to wear their uniforms daily.  Students are to come to school prepared to work with the appropriate tools, must focus on their academic tasks and demonstrate appropriate behavior at all times.  We require the support, cooperation and involvement of our parents to ensure that students achieve their academic goals.  It is extremely important that parents are actively involved in their children's education.  "Together We Can Make a Difference in Educating our Students!"

Parental Involvement

We are urging parents to become involved in their children's education.  Parents' attendance at Parent Association meetings and school events are crucial in supporting your child's education.  It is extremely important that parents support the Parent Association.  Ms. A. Hargrove, PA President has requested that all parents support P.S. 123's Parent Assocation.  "Together We Are Making a Difference in Your Child's Education."

Summer School Schedule

Letters were mailed to the parents of students who are mandated to attend summer school.  These students are expected to attend summer school daily.  Please be informed of the following summer school schedule:

July 1, 2008  First Day of Summer School 
 July 4, 2008  No School, Independence Day
 August 4, 2008  ELA Testing for Grades 3-6
 August 5, 2008   Math Testing for Grades 3-6
 August 6, 2008  Last Day of Summer School   

Summer School Hours

Monday-Thursday
8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Breakfast is served at 8:00 a.m. and lunch at 12:30 p.m.
Students are dismissed at 1:00 p.m.

Important Dates to Mark on Your Calendar
School Year 2008-2009
Tentative School Closings

September 2, 2008:  First Day of School for Students
September 2nd and 3rd:  Early Dismissal for Kindergarten Students Only
September 30th:  Rosh Hashanah
October 8, 2008:  Yom Kippur
October 13, 2008:  Columbus Day
November 4, 2008:  Election Day
November 12, 2008:  Veterans' Day
November 27-28, 2008:  Thanksgiving
December 24th-January 2nd:  Holiday/Winter Recess
January 19, 2009:  Martin Luther King, Jr.

This spring calendar can be found on the Department of Education website.

Parent-Teacher Conferences

 Fall Conferences  Spring Conferences
 November 19, 2008, Evening  March 18, 2009 Evening
 November 20, 2008, Afternoon March 19, 2009, Afternoon

May 2008

A Belated Mother's Day Message

Thinking of you on Mother's Day,
Wishing you happiness today, tomorrow and always
Happy Belated Mother's Day!

End of the School Year Calendar

 Date     Event Additional Information
 Monday, May 26th  Memorial Day No School
Monday, June 2nd Clerical Half Day Students dismissed at 11:30 a.m.
Thursday, June 5th Professional Day No School for Students
Friday, June 6th Dance Festival 9:15 a.m., Auditorium
Tuesday, June 10th First Grade Awards 9:15 a.m., Auditorium   
Wednesday June 11th Second Grade   9:15 a.m., Auditorium
Thursday, June 12th Clerical Half Day Students dismissed at 11:30
Thursday, June 12th Sixth Grade Awards and Poetry Celebration 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
Friday, June 13th Third Grade Awards 9:15 a.m., Auditorium
Monday, June 16th Fourth Grade Awards 9:15 a.m., Auditorium
Monday, June 16th Math and Science Fair 11:30 a.m.
Tuesday, June 17th Fifth Grade Awards 9:15 a.m., Auditorium
Thursday, June 19th Sixth Grade Graduation 9:30 a.m., Auditorium
Thursday, June 19th Sixth Grade Prom 4:00 p.m.-6:30 p.m
Friday, June 20th Kindergarten Ceremony 9:30 a.m., Auditorium
Monday, June 23rd Pre-K Awards 9:30 a.m., Auditorium
Thursday, June 26th Last Day of School Students dismissed at 11:30 a.m., Report Cards Distributed to Parents
Tuesday, September 2nd First Day of School for Students School Yard, 8:30 a.m.


Sixth Grade Parents' Meeting

Special thanks to the parents of grade six students who attended our graduation committee meeting on Friday, May 9, 2008.  The meeting was productive and presented an opportunity for parents to have input in the planning of the sixth grade graduation.  This school year, the sixth grade awards program will be presented during the evening of June 12th.  This is an opportunity for our students to dress up and be honored and recognized for their achievements.  Ms. Linda Humes, Yaffa Art Productions assigned several artists to work with our sixth grade students to enhance their creativity abilities.  The poetry celebration is a cumulating activity reflective of the students' work this school year with the artists.  The prom will be catered by the Parents Association.  Parents should not purchase attire for the graduation unless they receive a promotional letter from Dr. Lewis that the student has met sixth grade promotional requirements.  During all senior activities, students are expected to model respectful and appropriate behaviors.  Inappropriate dancing during the prom will not be permitted. 

Graduation Attire

Girls: White Dresses (No Low Cut or Strapless), low heeled shoes
Boys: Dark Suits, white shirts, and dark ties, shoes (no sneakers)

Sixth Grade Awards and Poetry Celebration

Students may wear a special or favorite outfit.

Please be informed of the following graduation activities:

 Date Time  Event 
 June 12, 2008 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m  Sixth Grade Awards and Poetry Ceremony Auditorium 
 June 13, 2008 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.  Senior Class Trip Coney Island 
 June 19, 2008 9:30 a.m.  Sixth Grade Graduation, Auditorium 
 June 19, 2008 4:00 p.m.-6:30 p.m.  Sixth Grade Prom Student's Cafeteria 

Principal's Breakfast Meeting with Parents

Parents are invited to meet with Dr. Lewis, Principal, to discuss P.S. 123's programs and expectations for the forthcoming school year.  During this meeting, parents will have the opportunity to share suggestions and recommendations for the involvement.  We need your ideas! Your input is appreciated.  Together We Can Make a Difference.  The principal's breakfast is scheduled for Thursday, May 29th at 9:30 a.m. in room 105.  Please inform Ms. Cadlett, Parent Coordinator if you plan to attend the breakfast.

Parent Association Election Reminders

The PA Scheduled the following dates for the election of new officers for the 2008-2009SY

 Nominating Committee Wednesday, May 21st  9:00 a.m. 
PA Elections June 6th  Following Ms. Padgett's 9:15 a.m. Dance Festival, Auditorium 

April 2008

Preparing Students for the Future that Awaits Them."

We are pleased to inform you that P.S. 123 was one of three schools in New York State to be awarded the 21st Century Technology Grant.  The purpose of the grant is to transform P.S. 123 into a model 21st Century Technology School within three years.  Emphasis will be placed on professional development and resources to create a teaching and learning environment that will provide our students with the technology skills necessary to succeed in the 21st century.  The project will be carefully documented on the web for schools to duplicate our best practices.  As a result of the grant, students will be prepared to meet the challenges of college and the next generation's workforce.

Robotics Comes to P.S. 123

Our fourth and fifth grade students who have excelled in math and science will have an opportunity to participate in a robotics program.  Students will engage in problem solving approaches combined with science and math concepts to create robots.  Students will use lego bricks to create robots with various capabilities.  Our students will showcase their theories and solutions by entering competitions.  Robotics requires critical thinking and problem solving skills which is the best preparation for both higher education and future careers.

City College Engineering Department

City College Engineering Department is proving students the opportunity to create pop-up books.  Pop-up books are mechanical and movable books which unfold and rise from the page to the observer's surprise and delight.  Each page becomes a stage, inviting action and participation.  Parents are invited to attend our first presentation of pop up books during our science fair in May, 2008.

Homework Packets

Please be reminded that schools will be closed from Monday, April 21st, to Friday, April 25th due to the Spring Recess.  Students are to return to school on April 25th.  It is important that all students complete their homework packets.  This is an opportunity to strengthen and deeper your child's understanding of various academic skills.  Celebrate learning with your child.  Visit the museums and the public library with your child.

Do not forget to mail your Parent Survey and Pre-K Application to the Department of Education!

March 2008

Our Thursday, March 13th, Parent-Teacher Conferences were a great success.  Approximately 90% of our parents attended Parent-Teacher Conferences.  Special acknowledgment to the parents who participated in the conferences.  Thank you for your involvement in your child's education.  Our school's goal is for all parents to meet with their children's teachers.  I am urging parents who did not confer with their child's teacher during Parent-Teacher Conferences to schedule an appointment for a conference.  We encourage and urge parents to become active partners in their children's education.  "Together We Are Making a Difference in the Lives of Our Youngsters."

Special Dates: Mark on Your Calendar

Sixth Grade Graduation - Thursday, June 19, 2008
Kindergarten Ceremony - Friday, June 20, 2008
Grade Level Awards Programs - Week of June 2nd and June 9th
Art and Dance Festival - Friday, June 4th

Resolving Student Conflicts: Stopping School Bullies

During the warm weather, it seems that students are involved in more conflicts and disputes with classmates.  There are many ways that you can help your child resolve conflicts without engaging in physical disputes as outlined:

  • Remind your child that we all disagree sometimes.  It's how we handle conflicts that matters.
  • Encourage your child to talk things out.  Help your child learn how he or she feels and permit others to express their feelings.
  • Tell your child to avoid using mean words that can hurt others and intensify conflicts.
  • Stress the importance that your child should never push or hit in a conflict.
  • Teach your child how to cool down when angry.  Take a few deep breaths, or count to ten.
  • Help your child to learn how to get along with peers.
  • Tell your child that it is okay to try to resolve a conflict.
  • Show by your words and actions that we should treat others the way we want to be treated.
  • When you meet with the staff at school to discuss a conflict involving your child, it is important that you be a good role model.  Praise your child for handling conflicts peacefully.

Remember: Children learn by what they see and hear.  Regardless of how upset you may be, set a good example for your child and behave responsibly.  Our guidance intervention team: Ms. Figueroa, Ms. Lovell, Ms. Clark, and Ms. Cadlett are available to meet to resolve student conflicts and disputes.  It is critical that students focus on improving their academic performance.  We are striving to reinforce our school's motto, "Living and Learning with Respect, Pride and Dignity."  

January 2008

Celebrating the academic successes of our students and the increase in student achievement, P.S. 123 is no longer on the State's academic warning and corrective action lists.  It is my privilege to inform you that Public School 123 was removed from the State's List of Schools for not meeting their academic targets.  This is a testament to the hard work and commitment of our students, faculty and parents.  We have worked extremely hard to improve students' academic skills as evidenced on the "B" rating received on the Department of Education's Progress Report and the "Well Developed Rating" received on the Quality Review Report.  Educating our students is a team effort.  We must continue our journey to academic excellence.  Personal accountability and responsibility are expected from all stakeholders.  Together, we are making a difference in our students' lives.

ELA State Examinations Dates

Please be reminded that students on grades 3 - 6 are scheduled to take the English Language Arts State Examinations according to the following schedule:

Grade

Testing Dates

January 8th – 9th

Grades 3 and 5

January 8th, 9th and 10th

Grade 4

January 15th, 16th and 17th

Grade 6


It is important that all students are present to take the State Examinations and report to school no later that 8:40 a.m.  Good Luck and Success on your examinations!

Good Attendance Is a Key to Academic Success

Schools are responsible for teaching your child.  We can not instruct your child, if she or he is absent.  Learning builds day by day.  When your child is absent, a day of learning is missed.  Research shows that children who attend school regularly perform better on State Examinations.  Being late for school hinders a child's learning.  A student who is 10 minutes late every day will miss 30 hours of instruction during the school year.  Your child's success in school depends on having a solid educational background - one that can only be gained through regular school attendance.

Helping Your Child to Create Their Academic Goals

Goals keep children focused on the future.  Goal setting is the foundation for responsible behavior and success in school.  It is crucial that you help your child create their goals.  You may ask your child the following questions to help with the formulation of their goals:
  •  How much improvement would you like to see on this week's test?
  • How would you like to improve your grades this marking period?
  • What are two things you would like to accomplish this school year?
  • What will be needed to achieve those goals?

Goals help students focus on what's important and what's not.  If our students have a vision of where they want to go, they're more likely to get there.  Students with goals find it easier to say "no" to irresponsible behaviors...because they are saying "yes" to their vision for the future.  Students on grade K-6 will maintain ongoing goal setting portfolios.

Schoolwide Uniform Policy

In accordance with the Chancellor's Regulations, students are required to wear uniforms to school daily.  Please ensure that your child wears his or her school uniform daily to school.  Your cooperation is appreciated. 

December 2007

It is hard to believe that it is December already. Winter has arrived along with the busy holiday season. Thank you for your outstanding participation in the parent – teacher conferences held on November 13th. We were pleased to learn about your child by meeting with you. We hope you have learned about your child as a student as well. It is extremely important that we continue to work together to improve student achievement. During the holiday recess, please support your child’s learning.  Students on grades K – 6 will receive holiday homework packets. The homework packets on grades 3 – 6 will provide ELA Sample Test Passages and Questions to help students prepare for the NYS English Language Arts Examination administered in January, 2008. Please ensure that your child complete the homework assignments. The holiday recess is also an excellent time for students to visit the library. Encourage your child to spend time reading each day. Read with your child and discuss the books read to ensure understanding. Challenge your child to learn something new each day. Your commitment to support your child’s learning will help improve his or her academic skills. Educating your child is a home – school partnership.

 

On behalf of P.S. 123’s Staff, please permit me to wish our families a safe and happy holiday season. Together, we are making A Difference in Our Students lives.


Progress Reports

The Department of Education recently graded all schools with an A, B, C, D, or F.  The progress reports will enable parents to understand how well schools are doing. P.S. 123 was graded “B.” We must continue to work hard to improve student achievement. The Department of Education created many new tools to enable parents, teachers and administrators to improve students’ academic performance.  In addition, we will discuss the school’s Quality Review, Learning Survey and the new Accountability Tools. We are looking forward to your attendance at this meeting.

 
GED Program

Public School 123’s GED Program for parents will begin in January, 2008. The program is supported by Columbia University. This is an opportunity for parents to earn their GED. Classes are held in the Parent Resource Room which is housed in P.S. 123’s basement. We are in need of thirty parents to begin the GED Program. If you are interested in participating in the GED Program, please contact Ms. Cadlett, Parent Coordinator.  Do not miss this great opportunity to earn your GED.


January Calendar of Events

Please be reminded that the 2007 – 2008 School and Testing Calendars were distributed twice. The calendars are also on the School’s DOE Website. Students must be present at 8:40 a.m. to take the test on the designated dates.

 
Non Attendance Dates
 

December 24– January 1

Students return to school on January 2, 2008

Winter Recess

(Including Christmas and New Year’s Day)

Monday, January 21, 2008

No School: Dr. King’s Birthday


ELA State Examinations Dates

Grade

Testing Dates

January 8th – 9th

Grades 3 and 5

January 8th, 9th and 10th

Grade 4

January 15th, 16th and 17th

Grade 6

 
Acuity Assessment

Date

Type of Assessment

January 23, 2008

Math Predictive 1


November 2007

Welcome to the Fall Parent –Teacher Conferences. The conferences scheduled for November 13th (1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.) will provide opportunities for you to be informed about your child’s progress. There is much to be gained when parents and teachers meet to discuss the progress of the students. Sharing information about your child with the teacher will help to create an instructional program that will meet the learning needs of your child. When you attend Parent-Teacher Conferences, please speak frankly with the teacher and identify activities which can help you support your child’s learning at home. In order to make your conference a productive one, I would like to suggest the following questions you may want to ask the teacher:

1. Does my child participate in the classroom activities?

9. Does my child understand what he/she has read?

2. Does he/she join classroom discussions?

10. Does he/she know the number facts?

3. Does my child show self-control in school situations?

11. Can he/she express his/her thoughts and ideas clearly?

4. How does my child get along with other children?

12. How is my child’s written work?

5. Does he/she relate well to the teacher and other adults?

13. Does my child obey school rules?

6. How is my child progressing in him /her academic work?

14. How does my child behave in the classroom, cafeteria, etc?

7. Does he/she seem to enjoy reading?

15. Does my child seem happy in school?

8. Can my child read orally?

16. What can I do to support my child’s learning at home?


October 2007

“Failure Is Not an Option at the Mahalia Jackson Scholars Academy”

Parent Involvement is a crucial component in improving students’ academic skills. When parents are involved in their children’s education, there is evidence of improved academic performance. We are appreciative of the parents who are ensuring that their children are maintaining excellent attendance, punctuality and completing classroom assignments.  Students who are not achieving grade level standards will not be promoted to the next grade. It is extremely important that our students invest the time, energy and effort in improving their academic skills for promotion to the next grade. P.S. 123 is providing academic support to help students improve their academic or social skills. Parents are encouraged to enroll their children in the following school activities:

v The Scholars Morning Academy – Provides academic support in small groups to students in reading and math, Monday – Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. Students may eat breakfast prior to attending the academy at 7:30 a.m.

v The Extended Day Morning – Provides academic support to students in reading on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

v Academic Interventions during the school day for students who are not achieving grade level standards in reading and mathematics.

v Columbia Presbyterian Mental Heath Clinic – Provides counseling to students to strengthen their focus on learning.

v Graham Windham Services for Families – Provides counseling for students and their families to improve students’ academic performance.

We truly believe that all children can learn and achieve grade level standards. However, we require the assistance of our parents to work collaboratively with the school staff to improve student achievement. Failure is not an option at P.S. 123. Parents must work with their students to ensure that they are completing academic tasks, attending school regularly and exhibiting appropriate behavior. Parents can make a difference in improving students’ academic performance and we expect our parents to be active partners in improving student achievement.

Homework Tips for Parents

There are many reasons why teachers assign homework. Together, parents and teachers can help children develop good study habits and attitudes to become lifelong learners. Homework completed and submitted to the teacher for review provides an opportunity to assess students’ understanding of the skill. It is crucial that students complete homework assignments daily. Parents are requested to review and sign students’ homework assignments each day. Please refer to the following homework tips for developing your child’s academic skills:

  • Your child is assigned homework each night. Ensure that your child completes his or her homework assignments.
  • Encourage your child to establish a regular time to do homework. Develop a schedule to avoid procrastination.
  • Ask your child if he/she understands the homework assignment. If they do not, work a few examples together. You can also obtain assistance with homework from the UFT Homework Helpline.
  • Ask your child to show you the homework after the teacher has corrected it. It is important that you and your child review the corrected homework assignment.
  • Make sure your child has a specific place to do homework that offers ample lighting, minimal noise and plenty of work space.
  • Stay in contact with your child’s teacher. Ask about their classes, what they are studying and how you can support learning at home.
  • Don’t do your child’s homework for them. Help they learn how to complete the assignment independently.
  • Show your child that you think homework is important. If you are at work during homework time, ask to see their work when you get home.
  • Praise your child for doing well. Nothing builds self-esteem like praise from parents.
  • Maintain a portfolio of your child’s “best pieces” for ongoing assessment review.
  • Help students organize their assignments by recording them on calendars or planners, along with due dates, dates turned in, etc.

By applying the above stated homework tips will help you develop your child’s learning habits throughout the educational process.

Parent Involvement

There are many ways that you can get involved in your child’s education:

  • Talk with your child every day about his or her school experiences.
  • Read the school’s handbook and notices sent from the school.
  • Become acquainted with your child’s teacher.
  • Consult your child’s teacher or school staff when you have concerns.
  • Keep abreast of your child’s academic progress.
  • Join the school’s parent’s organization and participate in its activities.
  • Volunteer at school. Be an active parent in your child’s education.

Helping Your Child Resolve Conflicts

It is extremely important that students are trained to resolve conflicts. Please review the following strategies for helping your child resolve conflicts in school:

  • Remind your child what we all disagree sometimes. It’s how we handle conflicts that matters.
  • Encourage your child to talk things out. Help your child learn to say how he or she feels and to permit others to express their feelings, too.
  • Tell your child to avoid using mean words that can hurt others and intensify conflicts.
  • Stress the importance of your child never pushing or hitting in a conflict.
  • Teach your child how to cool down when angry. Take a few deep breaths, or count to ten.
  • Help your child learn to cooperate with others to end conflicts.
  • Tell your child that it’s Okay to say “I’m sorry,” and that it’s good to forgive others.
  • Explain to your child that if a conflict can’t be resolved, it’s best to walk away or ask a teacher or staff member to help find a solution.
  • Show by your words and actions that we should treat others the way we want to be treated.

Be a good role model in all you do. Praise your child for handling conflicts peacefully.

September 2007

On behalf of the entire faculty, it is my sincere pleasure to welcome you and your child to another exciting school year.  We are also extending a special welcome to those parents and students who are new to P.S. 123.  We hope that your summer was enjoyable and every one is ready to get back into the routines and schedules of school. 

This school year promises to be filled with both challenges and great opportunities that will impact and improve the quality of education and student performance.  P.S. 123 selected the Knowledge Network as our Learning Support Organization.  Dr.  Kathleen M. Cashin is the Chief Executive Officer.  The Knowledge Network focuses on a curriculum that is a grade-by-grade, multidisciplinary curriculum utilizing specific content to be taught in social studies, science, music, and visual arts.  Emphasis is placed on ongoing assessment through students' projects which will strengthen their fund of general knowledge.  The curriculum ensures that students are instructed on what they are expected to know and learn on each grade level.  Many teachers have been trained in the facilitation of the Core Knowledge Curriculum.  We are looking forward to this wonderful opportunity for our youngsters.   

We will continue to place emphasis on creating a caring, safe, and respectful learning environment.  We also expect our students to demonstrate rigorous academic performance, creative talents, and critical thinking skills.  I know that the 2007-2008 school year will bring another year of collaborative partnerships and team work to improve student achievement.  Staff, parents, and community partnerships will continue to work together to make "P.S. 123, the Best School on the Planet."  My door is always open to you, but please remember your first line of communication is the classroom teacher.  Best wishes to you and your child for an exciting, enriching, and productive school year.  See you on September 4, the first day of school.  

July/August 2007

Summer school is a wonderful opportunity to help students improve their academic skills for promotion to the next grade.  Our committed and dedicated summer school staff members are working hard to improve students' reading and mathematics skills.  It is important that parents ensure that our youngsters adhere to the following school summer expectations:
    * Students must report to school at 8:00  a.m. for breakfast and 8:30 a.m. to begin their instructional day.
    * Students must complete class and homework assignments.
    * Students must exhibit appropriate behavior and follow the rules.
    * Parents should not remove students from their class prior to the 12:30 p.m. dismissal.

There are many fun ways parents can help children practice their reading, writing, and math skills.  Help your child improve his or her academic skills by encouraging reading daily, providing opportunities to write and reviewing math basic facts.  You can visit the public library with your child to identify books of interest.  Encourage your child to read and maintain a journal of summer readings.  If you need additional instructional ideas, please inform Ms. Cadlett, Parent Coordinator.

P.S. 123's Summer Community Partnerships

We are pleased to inform you that several community agencies are providing services this summer at P.S. 123.  Parents are encouraged to register their children for teh following summer programs:

* Sports and Arts Program - Students are provided the opportunity to engage in academic tasks, sports, and art activities.  The program is in operation Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.  Ms. Regina Abraham is the site coordinator.

* Graham Windham Agency - is sponsoring an Artist in Residence Program for students.  Students will explore the Harlem Community to gather information to illustrate on canvas.  Graham Windham is also offering parenting classes to provide strategies for building students' self esteem and positive discipline strategies.  Students can also receive counseling.  Ms. Lovelace is the site director.  A housing liaison, Ms. Josie Harris, is assigned to assist parents with their housing needs.  

* Columbia Presbyterian Mental Health Clinic - Students are provided an opportunity to participate in a wellness program.  Dr. Jackson is the site coordinator.

Parent Summer Workshops

Parents are encouraged to attend the following workshops from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. in room 205.  Hope to see you there!

Wednesday, July 11, 2007:
Summer School Orientation

Wednesday, July 18, 2007: 
Reading and Math Strategies

Wednesday, July 25, 2007:
Positive Discipline Strategies

Wednesday, August 1, 2007:
Building Your Child's Self-Esteem

June 2007

Please permit me to thank you for another phenomenal school year.  It's hard to believe that the school year will end on Wednesday, June 27, 2007.  It has been a wonderful year and I am so proud of the students' and staff's accomplishments.  Special appreciation to the students, parents, and staff who are working hard to make the Mahalia Jackson Academy, the Best School on the Planet.  I am confident that the forthcoming school year will be even more successful.  Best wishes for a safe and enjoyable summer vacation.

Congratulations to Our Graduating Class of 2007

Graduation is a time for celebrating all the possibilities your future holds and the many choices and challenges that awaits you.  Your sixth grade graduation ends your elementary school chapter.  As you begin a new chapter in your schooling, you  must continue to work hard to achieve your academic goals.  Remember that there is nothing in life that is too hard to achieve.  There is no limit to the goals you can attain - the successes you can achieve - your possibilities are as endless as your dreams.  Congratulations on your graduation and Good Luck in Junior High School! 

Congratulations Parents on Your Child's Graduation!

On behalf of the entire faculty, it is my sincere pleasure to congratulate you and your child on a productive and rewarding school year.  First, I would like to acknowledge the parents of our sixth grade graduating class of 2007.  You are the first teachers, who helped to shape the lives of our youngsters and nurtured their dreams.  You have helped your child to reach this special day.  Be sure to take a moment to feel proud of yourselves and celebrate your child's graduation with pride! You have helped your child reach this special day.  Be sure to take a moment to feel proud of yourself.  We are extremely proud of our students' academic achievement.  We wish them continued success on their journey to academic excellence. 

Special Appreciation to our Website Editors: Ms. D. Johnson and Ms. Z. Paraskevopoulos