Dear Lakeside Elementary Families,

As we begin the final week of the first semester, I would like to thank the Lakeside community for a wonderful first half of the school year. Your student(s) have accomplished many amazing things and the staff and I are grateful for the academic and social emotional learning that has occurred while we were also able to enjoy the return of field trips, volunteers, and student clubs. After a full week this week, I hope that the next two weeks are filled with fun, laughter, and relaxation shared with loved ones. We look forward to seeing everyone back for the start of the second semester on Tuesday, January 3. Happy Holidays!
 

First Semester Report Cards
We are approaching the end of the semester and teachers are already beginning to prepare for reporting student progress. First semester report cards for all K-5 students will be available in Skyward at 8:00 a.m. on Friday, January 6. 
 

Winter Specials Showcase
Last Friday our Lakeside students, under the direction of their music teachers, Mrs. Kline and Ms. Pugia, performed a wintry program for staff, students, and families during the Winter Specials Showcase. Thank you to all who were able to join us- we had an incredible turnout! Here is the video slideshow presentation to share some of what your child(ren) has been learning in their Specials classes- Art, Music, P.E., and Spanish. Thank you to our Specials teachers for all of their great work each week with students!

   

First Lego League Challenge (Grades 3-5) State Competition Results
On Saturday, December 10, two First Lego League (FLL) Challenge teams from East Grand Rapids, the Lakeside Lego Lions and Wealthy Elementary Team Power Up, competed in the state competition in Mason, MI. Both teams did an outstanding job showcasing all they had learned throughout the season. At the competition, the Lakeside Lego Lions scored their personal best on the robot game and also presented their innovation project focused on solar energy. The students on this team created a prototype of a solar panel pin that could be worn to generate renewable energy. The Wealthy Elementary Team Power Up received the “Breakthrough Award” for wonderful teamwork and demonstration of the FLL Core Values. Congratulations to these two teams for qualifying for the post season and thank you to their parent coaches for all of the learning and leadership they provided! Information regarding how to sign up for the next season of FLL will be shared through each elementary newsletter this spring.

        
 

Thank you, Fifth Grade Safeties
Each and every day 54 fifth grade students help to keep Lakeside Elementary safe by serving as a Fifth Grade Safety. As a thank you for all that they do, Mrs. Bradley and Mrs. Burnside hosted an appreciation event for Safeties last Friday during recess. Each of the Safeties enjoyed a hot cocoa treat and presented Mr. Howard with a holiday gift. Thank you, Safeties!

 

Lost and Found Clothing Donation
Please visit the Lost and Found this week to claim any items that may have found their way out of your child’s possession. This is a reminder that all items remaining in the Lost and Found after Friday, December 16 will be donated. 

Calendar
Please click here for upcoming events at Lakeside Elementary. Please mark your calendars for the following events:

• Friday, December 16:  Pajama Day for students

• Monday, December 19 - Monday, January 2:  Winter Break

• Tuesday, January 3:  School resumes

• Monday, January 9:  Board of Education Mtg in the EGR Middle School Learning Commons

• Monday, January 16:  No school for students

Warm Regards,

Chess Club for Students in Grades K-5
Lakeside Chess Club will run from January through March 2023. The sign-up is now full. However, if more spots open up, we will post availability in future newsletters. Thank you to the many who showed interest in signing up!

 

Santa Claus Girls Flyer
Santa Claus Girls (SCG) is a non-profit organization that provides both toys and clothing items to children ages 12 and under in time for the holidays. Their mission is to ensure that children ages 12 and under do not go without gifts during this time of celebration. Presents are gift-wrapped and delivered to the children’s residence on Saturday, December 10 by volunteer drivers to be received by a parent or caregiver. Online registration is currently available at http://www.santaclausgirls.org  Several languages can be selected on the website for ease of registration. Ongoing updates are posted to the Santa Claus Girls Facebook page. If you have any questions regarding the program or gift distribution, please visit santaclausgirls.org. More details are available on their flyer linked here.        

 

Harry Potter Yule Ball is Back!
On Saturday, February 25 from 6-9 p.m. East Grand Rapids will be hosting a Yule Ball for all Harry Potter enthusiasts and for anyone who would like to join in on the fun. We are looking for a Lakeside Elementary/parent/guardian who may be interested in being the lead volunteer for our building.  This lead volunteer would be on a committee with the other building's lead volunteers. Please reach out to me at sthelen@egrps.org to learn more. 

 Last week before Holiday break!  Class parties are this Friday, December 16th; look out for emails and communication from your room parents. 

 

 Direct Your Dollars
If you shop at SpartanNash stores please consider bringing your receipts to the main office.  We will submit your receipts to the Direct Your Dollars program and earn money for Lakeside.  Please note, we need the entire receipt. Thank you! 

 Happy Holidays!

Lakeside’s families have been generous with their time, talents and wallets.  The PTO is very grateful for the outpouring of generosity and support from our community.  We’d also like to thank the volunteers who helped at our events throughout the semester.  We would not have been able to do what we do without you.  Thank you!

We wish you all a wonderful holiday season and a relaxing winter break.  We look forward to seeing you in the new year!  

 

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Click here for important Free and Reduced Lunch Information.

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Lunch Menu
Please click here for a digital lunch menu!