#PackPride
The past two weeks have been very busy at Three Fires. The talent show captivated an audience of over 700 staff and students, showcasing the incredible talents of our students. From record-breaking pogo stick stunts to unforgettable drum performances, our students displayed great courage and bravery.
Our 5th-grade students gifted the school with beautiful perennial gardens, planting over 100 plants around the front of the building. This initiative not only adds beauty to our school entrance but also instills a sense of pride and environmental responsibility among our young learners.
The highly anticipated third and fourth grade kickball tournament concluded with Mrs. Halberg's classroom emerging as the victorious team after an intense final against Mrs. Spisak's classroom. The event taught valuable lessons of sportsmanship and teamwork, and we are grateful for the overwhelming support from families in attendance.
Last Thursday, our 5th-grade students celebrated their elementary graduation with a special ceremony, picnic, and Survivor Games. Mr. Johnson's class emerged as the ultimate survivors, and the day was filled with joy and excitement, including a DJ, bounce slide, and snow cones. We extend our gratitude to the parent volunteers who made this day memorable.
Despite the scorching weather, our students persevered and enjoyed a successful field day. Water games and refreshing popsicles provided relief from the heat. A special thanks to Mr. Holmes and Mr. LaRente for their excellent organization and the abundance of activities. Gratitude to all parent volunteers for their invaluable support!
As the school year comes to a close, I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for your support. I would also like to extend a thank you to our exceptional team of teachers, secretaries, aides, and everyone who played a part in making these culminating activities unforgettable. Their dedication ensured that our students had a memorable experience. Your trust in us to provide your child's elementary education means the world to us. On behalf of the entire Three Fires Staff, I want to express our appreciation for your commitment to our school family. As summer approaches, I hope you have a chance to relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy precious moments with your loved ones. See you in August!
Bob Starkey
Vacancies at Three Fires - Apply Now and Interview Next Week!
Three Fires is currently looking to fill vacancies for Special Needs Paraprofessionals for the 2023/2024 school year. We are seeking individuals who are interested in making a positive impact on students with special needs. Interviews will be conducted soon, so interested applicants are encouraged to apply online as soon as possible. The job qualifications, responsibilities, and application process information can be found through the provided link. Please feel free to share this posting with anyone who might be interested. https://howell.tedk12.com/hire/ViewJob.aspx?JobID=785
Pathways to Potential Resources
There are many resources available to families in Livingston County now and through the summer months. To apply for Food, Cash, Medicaid, Emergency Housing or Utility Assistance visit www.michigan.gov/mibridges. If you need assistance applying for benefits, call (517) 548-0200. Michele Brown, the DHHS Pathways to Potential Success Coach at Three Fires, is available Monday through Friday from 8-4:30 at (517) 245-5401 to connect you with additional resources. If you are in crisis or not sure which agency to turn to, call 211. Supported by the United Way, 211 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. A specialist will be available to connect you to the best available resources for your family’s needs.
Counselor’s Corner: Jeanie Nemeth
As we approach the end of the school year, it's important to recognize that this transition can be unsettling for both children and parents alike. The routine and structure that school provides will soon be replaced with a summer break, and this change can evoke various emotions in our students. Children may feel sad about leaving their teachers and friends behind, fearing that they might lose touch over the summer. The stability and comfort of the school routine are significant for them, and it's crucial to acknowledge and address these feelings. If you sense that your child is experiencing these emotions, here are some practical tips to help them navigate this transition:
- Plan enjoyable summer activities together, such as swimming, bonfires, or trips to the library.
- Listen to your child and be available to talk about their concerns. Share your own experiences of dealing with life changes.
- Help them find a balance between structured activities and downtime, allowing them to entertain themselves and develop independence.
- Encourage them to write letters or emails to friends, teachers, or family members.
- Create a summer "bucket list" to engage their imagination and foster excitement.
- Lastly, take a moment to enjoy the summer before rushing into planning for the next school year.
Howell Library Summer Reading Program and Events
Howell Carnegie District Library's 2023 2023 Summer Reading Challenge is easy and fun for all ages/ Pick up your child's age group's Bingo card in the library or participate online. Read, explore the library, and be engaged this summer as you complete activity squares on your card to get BINGOs and chances to win prizes. Visit www.howelllibrary.org to find out more! The Howell Carnegie District Library will also host great family events this summer, such as Cirque Amongus & More, 3,2,1, Blast Off!... A Family Science Show, And the Beat Goes On A Family Musical Celebration with Katie Welty, Family Art, Community, and more! Some require registration; some have a free lunch after the event; see the Howell Library events calendar for details.
Howell Public Schools Family Perception Survey
Each year the district conducts a Family Perception Survey. The responses from the survey help the district evaluate its current practices and identify its strengths and areas for improvement. If you have not already done so, please take a few minutes to complete the Family Perception Survey by Friday, June 2, at 5:00 p.m. You can access the survey at https://bit.ly/3VUXTPJ.
Highlander Reading Express
This summer, the Highlander Reading Express will be in various locations around our community. The Reading Express is the district's mobile library. This year the Reading Express will run on Tuesday and Thursday. On Tuesdays, the Reading Express will be in the Hidden Creek Subdivision and the Rolling Ridge Subdivision. On Thursdays, it will visit Southeast Elementary, Marion Township Park #1, and on select Thursdays, Howell Estates. To view the schedule, locations, and times, please visit HowellSchools.com/ReadingExpress.
Food Service Account Balances
As the school year winds, please check your child's school meal account to ensure all overdue balances are paid. Payments can be made through the Meal Magic Family Portal by sending in payment with your child or mailed to the Howell Public Schools Food Service Department at 1200 W. Grand River, Howell, MI 48843.
Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/threefireselementary, find our PTO on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ThreeFiresElementaryPTO/, find us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/HowellTFE