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2/2/25

Dear Laurel Park Families,

Every year, each WCPSS school selects one student for the Spotlight on Students recognition. The purpose of this recognition is to shine the spotlight on students who have demonstrated perseverance and a commitment to meet their social and academic goals in spite of challenges they may face. Congratulations to 5th-grader, Hannah Cziraky, as this year's Spotlight on Students recipient for Laurel Park. The following statement about Hannah was read aloud at last Tuesday's recognition ceremony:

 

Hannah is a very bright and kind young lady. During her time at Laurel Park, Hannah has worked hard to develop skills that allow her to be successful both academically and socially. Hannah expresses care and concern for others to the point where she puts her own needs aside. She strives to continue to improve and grow. Sometimes, the stress of expectations can be overwhelming, yet Hannah works hard to balance her personal expectations with her journey to grow. She perseveres and continues to shine her bright beautiful light with the rest of the classroom community. 
 

 

This week, we are excited to celebrate our amazing counselors, Caren MacEntee (grades K-2) and Ashley Truskowski (grades 3-5), for the incredible support they provide to our Laurel Park community. During National School Counselor Week (Feb. 3-7), we shine a spotlight on the counseling profession and its invaluable impact in schools. Both Ms. MacEntee and Ms. Truskowski work with students individually and in small groups, addressing a variety of needs, while also leading whole-class lessons on broader topics. Our teachers and families rely on their expertise to help solve child-specific challenges, making them an essential part of our collaborative efforts. Let’s take a moment to honor Ms. Truskowski and Ms. MacEntee for all the great work they do!

 

 

Respectfully, 

Charelle Lovett, Principal

Follow LPES on Facebook

 

Upcoming Events / Important Dates (Community Calendar)

  • Feb. 3-7: National School Counselor Week
  • Feb. 3: Track 4 Report Cards and Track 1 Interim Reports Go Home
  • Feb. 7: FYI -- NO pizza for lunch today
  • Feb. 10-14: National Bus Driver Appreciation Week
  • Feb. 12: General PTA Meeting in Media Center @ 6 PM
  • Feb. 14: Yearbook art contest due to the Front Office; Snack Cart (Sign-Up)
  • Feb. 17-21: We 'Lovett' Spirit Week!
  • Feb. 17: Welcome back, Track 3! (Reminder all tracks are on campus)
  • Feb. 24-28: LPES Scholastic Book Fair, Family Shopping 4:15-4:45 PM daily
  • Feb. 27: STEAM Night and Book Fair Family Night; 5:30-7:30 PM

  

2025-26 Track Change Request

If you are seeking to request a track change for the 2054-26 school year, complete the linked form below for EACH child attending Laurel Park Elementary. While school administration would like to grant all requests, state class size limits, keeping families together on the same track, and other variables must be considered when assigning students to tracks/classrooms. This form documents a request for a track change for the 25-26 school year and does not guarantee a seat on a particular track. Track change requests must be submitted by Friday, March 7, 2025. If you do not wish to request a track change, you do not need to complete the form. Track change request form: https://forms.gle/f3FGPkTxwS5t7wc27

 

WCPSS's Statement to Support Families Amid Recent Federal Immigration Orders

Our primary focus remains on the well-being, safety, and education of every student we serve, regardless of their background. We recognize that recent orders may cause uncertainty for some members of our community. We want to reaffirm our commitment to fostering a safe and welcoming environment where all children can learn and thrive. 

 

The Supreme Court’s Plyler v. Doe decision guarantees all children the right to access a public education, regardless of citizenship status. Our district has always complied with federal and state laws and will continue to do so. We are equally committed to ensuring our schools remain safe and welcoming spaces for all students and families.

 

Building leaders have been reminded of the procedures that law enforcement agencies must follow when interacting with students on campus. If law enforcement seeks access to a school, we will consult with legal counsel to ensure compliance with applicable laws.

 

Additionally, our district does not ask for or record information about the immigration status of any family. We will continue to honor all laws protecting the privacy of student records as outlined in board policies. We encourage families to contact their school’s student support services if their child has concerns or social-emotional needs during this time. Click the link to ask individual questions

 

Cary Honor a Teacher Nominations Due Feb. 3

Every year, the Cary Chamber of Commerce recognizes teachers at area schools who have been nominated by the school community for the Cary Honor a Teacher Award. Please take a moment to nominate a Laurel Park teacher who exemplifies teaching excellence, creativity, and inspiration. The nomination window closes on Monday, February 3 at 5 PM. Once five Laurel Park finalists are selected and complete the application process, one will be awarded a plaque and cash prize on May 13 at the Cary Honor a Teacher banquet. Please click the form to nominate a teacher  https://forms.gle/q8enkvFfqGwANqUu8

 

Valentine's Day at Laurel Park 

Valentine’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to foster a sense of community and friendship among our LPES students. Students can participate in Valentine’s Day card exchanges on Friday, February 14 (tracks 1 & 4) or Monday, February 17 (track 3). If your child is participating, please ensure they bring a card for each classmate. (Homemade cards are a fun way to show creativity!) While LPES encourages the exchange of non-food items (such as cards, stickers, pencils, erasers, etc.), we understand that small candy items may also be brought in for sharing. Please note that students will not be eating candy at school, and families can decide if their child is allowed to enjoy the candy at home.

 

LPES Book Fair and STEAM Night are Coming!

Our annual book fair is February 24-28, from 8:45-4:45 PM daily. This year's theme is "Dive into a Good Book." A special book fair family night will be on February 27 during the annual STEAM Night; a time for students and families to have fun with hands on science, technology, engineering, art, and math activities. The PTA is looking for volunteers to run the registers and stock shelves during the book fair. Please click the link to sign-up! It is a great volunteer opportunity and to see our kids excited about books!

 

 

Thursday, Feb. 27, 5:30-7:30 PM

 

Student Yearbook Art Contest Sponsored by Student Ambassadors

Our K-5 students are invited to submit a design related to "Kindness is Cool" for our 2024-25 yearbook. Students are to create a black/white or color design on 8x11 blank paper. All submissions are due to the Front Office by Friday, February 14. Please contact Lisa Charns (lmcharns@wcpss.net) or Jenna Miller (jcmiller@wcpss.net) with any questions. 

 

Student yearbook art contest

 

 

Save the Date: 5th Grade Moving Up Ceremony Dates/Times Confirmed

We cannot believe our 5th graders will be moving up to middle school in six months. After speaking with Salem and Lufkin Middles, we set our ceremony dates for Thursday, May 29 (Track 1) and Thursday, June 26 (Tracks 3 & 4) at 11:45 AM. More information will be shared with our 5th-grade families closer to the moving up dates. 

 

 

 

Important AIG Links for ALL families

Questions? Contact our AIG teacher, Stephanie Atwell at satwell@wcpss.net.

 

Laurel Park Character Strengths

Each month, a selected character strength is highlighted in the morning announcements and discussed during your child's Classroom Huddle/morning meeting. In February, we will focus on Integrity -- You are honest and have strong moral principles. 

 

Friendly Family Reminders

  • LPES Family Handbook 
  • Smartwatches and Cell Phones: The only electronic device students should bring to school is the district-issued Chromebook. Personal technology (e.g., smartwatches, cell phones) should be turned off during school hours. Parents can call the front office to relay a message to their child.
  • Grades 3-5 Chromebooks: Students are expected to bring their charged Chromebooks to school daily. These are not only used for classwork but for district and statewide testing that occurs throughout the school year.
  • Extra Clothing: We ask all students to have an extra set of clothes at school in case something happens. (We have limited clothes and undergarments in the office.) Please check to ensure the set at school is weather-appropriate and still fits.
  • Lost and Found: Please remind your child to check the lost and found area in the cafeteria. We will donate lost and found items quarterly.
  • Volunteering: Register at www.wcpss.net/volunteer
  • Arriving Late / Leaving Early: Students who arrive at school after 9:15 AM must be signed in by the parent/guardian via the QR code on the front door. Early check-out ends at 3:15 PM. 

 

 

 

 

Laurel Park PTA Information (laurelparkespta.com)

PTA Seeking to Fill Board Positions for the 2025-26 School Year

The LPES PTA is looking to fill several key board positions for the 2025-26 school year, and we’d love your help! Joining the PTA board is a great way to make a meaningful impact on our school community, contribute to the success of our events, and support the growth of our students. We’re seeking parents and guardians who are passionate about our school and eager to make a difference. Most positions don’t require prior experience, and we offer support and guidance throughout your term. If you're interested or have any questions, please reach out to us at lpesptapresident@gmail.com. We’d be happy to share more details about each position!

 

Positions Available:

  • President
  • Vice President of Programs
  • Vice President of Fundraising
  • Secretary
  • Treasurer

 

Submit Photos to the Penguin Passport

Our students experience new and different places during track outs throughout the year. We would love for students to share their adventures with us! Participation builds community, celebrates diversity, and inspires others! Visit https://www.laurelparkespta.com/penguin-passport.html for more information.

 

Join the PTA

Laurel Park has an active PTA that serves as our primary parent-teacher organization. Advocating for public schools and sound instruction is the PTA's priority in supporting the school with clubs, coordinating school events, beautification, playground enhancements, teacher planning days, and instructional resources. PTA members will receive a 10% discount on all spirit wear!