PS261.org Calendar 2007-2008 School Year
Report generated 13 May 2008 05:28:49 PM
Expanded Simple Pocket Future Dates Only
Visit www.ps261.org for Updated Information

August '07
29 Aug 07 Wed PS 261 Clean Up Day 2pm-6pm.
The PS261 PTA wishes you a fun and safe summer AND... Encourages you to mark your calendars and save the date for the PS 261 Clean Up Day - a fun opportunity to reintroduce your children to the school and help teachers clean up and organize before opening day on September 4th. Date: Wednesday, August 29th Time: 2:00pm - 6:00pm (arrive as soon as you can) And: Ice cream and ices will be served. See old friends and teachers and meet new ones! This is a free event sponsored by the PS261 PTA! We look forward to seeing you there!

September '07
04 Sep 07 Tue First Day of School, 2007-2008. Early Dismissal for Kindergarten Only.
04 Sep 07 Tue Welcome Back to School! In the lobby at morning drop-off.
Join us in the lobby as we welcome new and returning students to PS261!
04 Sep 07 Tue Afterschool Begins
05 Sep 07 Wed Early Dismissal for Kindergarten Only
05 Sep 07 Wed Welcome Back to School! In the lobby at morning drop-off.
Join us in the lobby as we welcome new and returning students to PS261!
10 Sep 07 Mon PTA Executive Board Meeting 6:15pm - 7:30pm.
11 Sep 07 Tue Curriculum Night 5:30pm - 7:00pm, in the Auditorium & Individual Classrooms.
Learn what methods your child's teacher has planned for the year, what methods he or she will be using to teach, and how you child's progress will be assessed. 5:30-6:00 - Intro / Teacher Specialists in the Auditorium 6:00-7:00 - Meet with Teachers in their Classrooms Childcare WILL NOT be provided.
13 Sep 07 Thu NO SCHOOL Rosh Hashanah.
14 Sep 07 Fri NO SCHOOL Rosh Hashanah.
18 Sep 07 Tue Candy/Magazine Sale Kick-Off Runs through October 12th.
It's Candy Sale time again. Sale packets will be distributed on Sep. 18 to classrooms. Please read over the information contained in the packet. It will include information on products, how to fill out the forms, and the dates of the sale. As a PTA-sponsored fundraiser, this sale is extremely important to the funding of programs and supplies in the school. Offering candy as well as magazines and gift items, we hope that everyone can find something they might need, and help PS 261 in the process. Questions, problems and comments can be addressed to Susan Hyacinth, and can be delivered to the office mailbox of the PTA. If you are unable to drop by, just give it to your child to deliver to their teacher, and they will see that it gets to me. You can also email me at SLOH815@verizon.net. Thank you very much. Susan Hyacinth Candy Sale Coordinator
18 Sep 07 Tue Grade Rep Meetings 8:30-9:00am, Library (Room 214).
Calling all Class Parents and Grade Representatives! If you are a Class Parent (or aspire to be a Class Parent) or Grade Representative, please join us for a meeting on Tuesday, September 18 at 8:30 (right after drop off) until 9:00 am, in the Library (Room 214), to discuss the role of Class Parent and Grade Representative. Parents who have been Class Parents and Grade Representatives in previous years will share ideas that have been successful in the past. Parents who hope to be Class Parents for the first time should bring any questions and ideas! We look forward to seeing you Tuesday!
19 Sep 07 Wed Candy Sale Continues. Runs through October 12th.
19 Sep 07 Wed Middle School Information Meetings Two informational sessions: 9am AND 6pm.
MIDDLE SCHOOL MEETINGS For Fifth (and Fourth) Grade Parents Wednesday, September 19, 2007 at 9am AND 6pm in the Auditorium This is the chance to learn about your options and the application process. There will be representatives from some middle schools to introduce their schools and answer your questions. [If you cannot attend on 9/19, there will be another meeting on Wednesday, October 11 at 6PM.]
20 Sep 07 Thu SLT Meeting 6:15pm, 2nd Floor Media Center / Library.
24 Sep 07 Mon Candy Sale Continues. Runs through October 12th.
26 Sep 07 Wed PTA General Meeting 6:15pm-7:30pm, Rm. 214 & the Auditorium
To All Members of the PS 261 Community: Please Join Us! • Attend the First PTA General Meeting of the 2007-2008 School Year! • See the SmartBoard In Action! (What’s a SmartBoard?? Come Find Out!) • Reconnect with Old Friends! Connect with New Friends! • Learn About All the Exciting Events the PTA is Planning This Year! • Learn How You Can Get Involved! We Need Your Help! Pre-K and Kindergarten Families – A Special Welcome To Our Community!! Please be in the Library / Info Literacy Room (Rm. 214, on the Second Floor) at 6:15pm SHARP in order to see the SmartBoard Demonstration by teacher Chris Peyser. After the SmartBoard Demonstration, the meeting will continue in the Auditorium.
28 Sep 07 Fri Families As Learning Partners 8:30am - 9:20am.
30 Sep 07 Sun PS261 at the September 30th Atlantic Antic! 10am-6pm, Atlantic Ave. btw. Smith St. & Hoyt St.
PS261 at the September 30th Atlantic Antic! Please come visit (and help staff!) PS 261's tables at the Sunday, September 30th Atlantic Antic The Atlantic Antic is a huge street fair from 10am-6pm that last year brought together many families of current students, PS261 alumni and teachers. Our tables will be between Hoyt and Smith Streets. If you have a talent you can offer at the tables for an hour or so (last year calligraphy, henna designs, face-painting, homemade hummus and a large "moving mural" scroll for children to draw on were offered) OR if you can lend your sweat (for set-up at 9am or clean-up beginning at 5pm) OR if you can lend a friendly smile to help sell raffle tickets or tote bags or cold drinks during the day, then please give parent Ann Biddlecom a call (718-852-8170) or e-mail (annbiddlecom@yahoo.com). Thanks!

October '07
01 Oct 07 Mon Candy Sale Continues. Runs through October 12th.
06 Oct 07 Sat 4th & 5th Graders: MS 447 Open House 10:00am, 345 Dean Street.
The Math & Science Exploratory School MS 447 will be holding an Open House on Saturday October 6, 2007, at 10:00am. 345 Dean Street Brooklyn NY 11217 - Meet Staff/Parents - Tour building - Open Discussion with Administration - Information Session - Registration not necessary
08 Oct 07 Mon NO SCHOOL Columbus Day observed.
10 Oct 07 Wed PTA Executive Board Meeting 6:15pm - 7:30pm.
11 Oct 07 Thu Middle School Information Meeting 6pm, in the Auditorium
MIDDLE SCHOOL INFORMATION MEETINGS Attention Fifth and Fourth Grade Parents!!! Thursday, October 11th, 2007 6pm, in the Auditorium Representatives from the following schools are scheduled to speak (barring changes on their end) at our Middle School Informational Meetings: The following schools are currently scheduled to come and speak to our 4th and 5th grade parents: * IS/HS 429 Global Studies * MS 497 International Studies - Carol Scott * MS 442 New Horizons * Arts & Letters * Institute for Collaborative Studies - Manhattan * MS 463 School of Journalism This meeting will explain your options and the application process; what will vary are the representatives from different middle schools who will be present to answer your questions. Note: This is the second of two Middle School Informational Meeting dates.
12 Oct 07 Fri Candy Sale Ends.
13 Oct 07 Sat PS261 Fall Festival 1pm to 5pm.
Come Join the PS261 Community at our Annual Fall Festival! “Celebrating the Arts in Our Brand New Playground” Saturday, October 13th, 2007 1:00pm-5:00pm PS261 Schoolyard Come One, Come All - It’s Time To Celebrate! Dance Expression - Move your body with Patricia H and Friends! Special Dedication Of our New Playground at 2:30pm PoemAgination - It’s open mic time, bring your favorite piece to share! Drummers - Hear the beat of the drummers--bring your own music! Nan-O-Drama - Bring your dress-up gear and witty personalities! It’s parade time! Food Art with Nina P - Children get creative with your food & PS261 food artist “Writers Creative” With M Fenton - Photo Journalists, Creative Writers and Editors needed to cover the Fest for November’s School Newsletter Knitting With Chris - For Kids and Adults! Bring Your Projects! Ask the Expert! PLUS The Black Cowboys, Inflatable fun, Games, Arts & Crafts Galore, Great Eats and Much, Much, More! The goal of our annual Fall Fest is to nurture our PS 261 community. All funds collected will go towards the expenses of the event. Thank you! Sponsored by the PS261 PTA
17 Oct 07 Wed SLT Meeting 6:15pm, 2nd Floor Media Center / Library.
18 Oct 07 Thu Middle School Principals' Forum 7pm-9pm, Secondary Schools Complex, 237 7th Avenue.
Third Annual Middle School Principals' Forum Thursday, October 18 7:00 - 9:00 PM Secondary School Complex 237 7th Avenue, between 4th and 5th Streets Subway: F to 7th Avenue; M or R to 4th Avenue Bus: B67; also B63, B69, B75 Free child care Free interpretation in Spanish, Chinese, Arabic (To request another language, send an email to CEC15@schools.nyc.gov by October 11.) This is a chance for 5th grade parents and interested others to hear from all District 15 middle school principals on one night. It's a great way to get a feel for each school, and to figure out which ones you might want to consider for your child. It is usually very well-attended, standing-room-only, so please try to be early to get a seat.
22 Oct 07 Mon Monday Morning Workout 8:30-9:10am, in the Gym. Registration req'd.
Oct 22, Nov 5, Nov 19.
23 Oct 07 Tue Fifth Grade Breakfast & Bake Sale 7:45am-8:20am, in the Lobby.
25 Oct 07 Thu Direct Appeal Begins
26 Oct 07 Fri Families As Learning Partners 8:30am - 9:20am.
30 Oct 07 Tue Parent Math Evening 6pm-7:30pm.
Join us for a K-5 Parent Math Evening! Tuesday, October 30th 6:00pm - 7:45pm Come and experience the Problem-solving and methematical reasoning that happens on your child's grade level! Childcare provided in the Gym! Kindergarten: Routines and Counting Strategies in Kindergarten (facilitator: Jocelyn Benford) First Grade: An Attribute Investigation (facilitator: Jennifer Costanzo) Second Grade: Halloween Party Bags Investigation (facilitator: Diana Holliday) Third Grade: Skittles Data Collection Investigation (facilitator: Anne Farmer) Fourth Grade: Polygon Investigation (facilitator: Theresa Foley) Fifth Grade: Arrays and Factor Pairs Investigation (facilitator: Nicole Blyden)

November '07
05 Nov 07 Mon Monday Morning Workout 8:30-9:10am, in the Gym. Registration req'd.
Oct 22, Nov 5, Nov 19.
06 Nov 07 Tue NO SCHOOL Election Day / Chancellor's Conference Day.
06 Nov 07 Tue Pre-K Bake Sale 7:30am 'til the food runs out!
Help raise funds for the Pre-K while voting!
08 Nov 07 Thu PTA General Meeting & Potluck Dinner 6:15pm-7:30pm, in the Auditorium
PTA Meeting Agenda: 1. Welcome 2. Approval of minutes from September general meeting 3. Intro of new faculty 4. Intro of Arts faculty and parent volunteers 5. Principal Mills' Report 6. Co-Presidents' Report 7. SLT nominations 8. New business PTA Meeting is immediately followed by our annual PS261 Pot Luck Dinner! P.S. 261 exhibits what this great city and nation are all about: diversity. We’re truly a melting pot consisting of various nationalities, backgrounds and cultures. Therefore, we thought it was only fitting to give our potluck this year an international theme. This is a great opportunity to share our rituals, favorite ethnic foods, traditional clothing and history with the entire school. It’s an educational experience for our children and a great way to connect with other families. Our potluck will be held on Thursday, November 8, 2007 immediately following the PTA meeting. Sign-up sheets for food donations will be distributed by class parents in each grade. Some of the dishes will include recipes and descriptions that will be on display to explain its significance and origin. Please join us for an evening filled with great food, laughter and education of our nations all around the world. We look forward to working together as only P.S. 261 does. Yours truly, 2007 Potluck Committee
09 Nov 07 Fri Picture Day
12 Nov 07 Mon NO SCHOOL Veterans Day observed.
13 Nov 07 Tue HALF-DAY, Noon Dismissal for All Students Parent-Teacher Conferences 1-3:30 & 6-8:30pm.
14 Nov 07 Wed 5th Grade Harvest Bake Sale In the School Lobby.
Harvest BAKE SALE Wednesday, November 14 from 8:00AM Featuring the Pumpkin vs. Sweet Potato Pie Showdown! Enter your favorite PUMPKIN or SWEET POTATO PIES for the final Taste-off! (They're both orange, mashed, sweet and spicy, baked in flaky crust... let's find out which one is really better!) PLEASE DONATE BAKE SALE ITEMS: Bagels, coffee & fixings, juice boxes, muffins, creamed cheese, cupcakes, etc. -- and don't forget to send in your pies! (pies and cakes should be pre-cut) ALL PROCEEEDS WILL GO TOWARD DEFRAYING THE COSTS OF SENIOR CLASS ACTIVITIES. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! The Fifth Grade is creating a Family Cookbook to sell as part of this fundraiser. We're asking all families, friends, & staff to donate kid-friendly recipes to be included. We're looking for items with a harvest theme - especially those Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Pie recipes - and we welcome any other special treats you'd like to share. The best part of cooking is the fun & love put into the preparation! All recipes should be submitted by Thursday, November 8, 2007. So please forward your recipes to the email addresses below:
14 Nov 07 Wed Morning Open House 9:00am
14 Nov 07 Wed PTA Executive Board Meeting 6:15pm - 7:30pm.
Proposed Agenda for EB Mtg. 11/14/07: 1. Approval of minutes from EB Meeting in October 2. Groundswell Mural Project with 261 3. Co-Presidents' Report 4. Treasurer's Report 5. Principal's Report 6. SLT Report 7. Committee Reports:
  • Fundraising
  • 5th Grade
  • After School
    • 8. New Business 9. Adjournment Reminder: Next EB meeting is scheduled for Monday, December 3rd at 6:15pm.
    15 Nov 07 Thu SLT Meeting 6:15pm, 2nd Floor Media Center / Library.
    16 Nov 07 Fri PS261 Basketball Fundraiser 6:30pm-8:00pm, in the Gym.
    Calling all TEAM PLAYERS (that means EVERYONE)! Please turn-out on November 16th at 6:30pm for a Basketball Tournament to raise much-needed money for the 5th Grade Graduation Class! We know that 99% of the PS261 parent-body are major basketball fans (as we found out in the middle of a snow storm last year). We need to SEE ALL OF YOU on the court Friday Night at 6:30pm!! Where: PS261 Gymnasium When: November 16th Time: 6:30pm-8:00pm Who: All Parents and Teachers Alike Cost:
  • $5 to play
  • $3 for admission to spectate
  • $5 plate of food If you'd like to help out by bringing food, contact someone listed below:
    • 19 Nov 07 Mon Monday Morning Workout 8:30-9:10am, in the Gym. Registration req'd.
    Oct 22, Nov 5, Nov 19.
    22 Nov 07 Thu NO SCHOOL Thanksgiving Recess.
    23 Nov 07 Fri NO SCHOOL Thanksgiving Recess.
    30 Nov 07 Fri Families As Learning Partners 8:30am - 9:20am.

    December '07
    03 Dec 07 Mon PTA Executive Board Meeting 6:15pm - 7:30pm.
    10 Dec 07 Mon Winter Book Fair Begins 8:00am-3:30pm, in the Auditorium Lobby. One Week Only!
    11 Dec 07 Tue Winter Book Fair Continues 8:00am-3:30pm, in the Auditorium Lobby. Ends Friday!
    11 Dec 07 Tue Fifth Grade Parents Meeting 8:35am, in the Auditorium.
    This meeting will be brief, as we’re aware that some parents are scheduled to attend the Open House at M.S. 51 @ 10 am on 12/11/07. Topics for discussion: Fifth-grade Fundraising Parent involvement - How can each of us make a difference? Upcoming events: Fifth-grade Raffle – Tickets on sale now. Drawing will be held on Wednesday, December 19th Winter Decorations & Bake Sale – Thursday & Friday, 12/13 & 12/14 Selling alternative snacks in the cafeteria during lunch PS 261 website – Stay in the loop! Parents please subscribe to 5th grade list serve Hope to see you there! For more info contact: Ramona (Jonathan’s mom/Class 5-412) 917-417-2244 Schanequa (Courtney’s mom/Class 5-413) 347-661-3603
    12 Dec 07 Wed PTA General Meeting (AM) 8:30am - 9:20am, in the Auditorium.
    12 Dec 07 Wed Winter Book Fair Continues 8:00am-3:30pm, in the Auditorium Lobby. Ends Friday!
    12 Dec 07 Wed The Comet Mail Post Office begins! Stamps on sale in the Lobby, 8:00am-8:25am.
    Stamp sales at the General Post Office will begin on Wednesday, December 12th in the lobby from 8:00-8:25am and will continue at those times every day until December 18th. The General PO sells:
    • Stamps - 5c
    • Strip of 5 stamps - 25c
    • Designer postcards - 10c
    • Holiday cards - 25c
    • Pre-stamped envelopes - 10c
      • Stop by and stock up on supplies. Then... write lots of letters! Write to your lovely child, a favorite teacher, you child's friends, the world's best custodians and more! Click here for a directory with all the teachers' names, addresses and zip codes. Please make sure you address the envelopes correctly (there's an example of how to do it on the bottom of the directory). If you really don't get it, ask your child. "Your mail, delivered at the SPEED of light!"
    13 Dec 07 Thu SLT Meeting 6:15pm, 2nd Floor Media Center / Library.
    13 Dec 07 Thu 5th Grade Winter Decorations & Gifts / Bake Sale In the Cafeteria.
    13 Dec 07 Thu Winter Book Fair Continues OPEN LATE, 8:00am-6:30pm, in the Auditorium Lobby. Ends Tomorrow!
    13 Dec 07 Thu The Comet Mail Post Office continues! Stamps on sale in the Lobby, 8:00am-8:25am.
    Stamp sales at the General Post Office will begin on Wednesday, December 12th in the lobby from 8:00-8:25am and will continue at those times every day until December 18th. The General PO sells:
    • Stamps - 5c
    • Strip of 5 stamps - 25c
    • Designer postcards - 10c
    • Holiday cards - 25c
    • Pre-stamped envelopes - 10c
      • Stop by and stock up on supplies. Then... write lots of letters! Write to your lovely child, a favorite teacher, you child's friends, the world's best custodians and more! Click here for a directory with all the teachers' names, addresses and zip codes. Please make sure you address the envelopes correctly (there's an example of how to do it on the bottom of the directory). If you really don't get it, ask your child. "Your mail, delivered at the SPEED of light!"
    13 Dec 07 Thu Shaina the Lice Lady 8:00am-9:00am, in the Lobby. She answers your questions & demonstrates lice removal techniques!
    14 Dec 07 Fri Winter Book Fair Ends 8:00am-3:30pm, in the Auditorium Lobby. Ends Today!
    14 Dec 07 Fri 5th Grade Winter Decorations & Gifts / Bake Sale In the Cafeteria.
    14 Dec 07 Fri The Comet Mail Post Office continues! Stamps on sale in the Lobby, 8:00am-8:25am.
    Stamp sales at the General Post Office will begin on Wednesday, December 12th in the lobby from 8:00-8:25am and will continue at those times every day until December 18th. The General PO sells:
    • Stamps - 5c
    • Strip of 5 stamps - 25c
    • Designer postcards - 10c
    • Holiday cards - 25c
    • Pre-stamped envelopes - 10c
      • Stop by and stock up on supplies. Then... write lots of letters! Write to your lovely child, a favorite teacher, you child's friends, the world's best custodians and more! Click here for a directory with all the teachers' names, addresses and zip codes. Please make sure you address the envelopes correctly (there's an example of how to do it on the bottom of the directory). If you really don't get it, ask your child. "Your mail, delivered at the SPEED of light!"
    14 Dec 07 Fri Shaina the Lice Lady 8:00am-9:00am, in the Lobby. She answers your questions & demonstrates lice removal techniques!
    17 Dec 07 Mon The Comet Mail Post Office continues! Stamps on sale in the Lobby, 8:00am-8:25am.
    Stamp sales at the General Post Office will begin on Wednesday, December 12th in the lobby from 8:00-8:25am and will continue at those times every day until December 18th. The General PO sells:
    • Stamps - 5c
    • Strip of 5 stamps - 25c
    • Designer postcards - 10c
    • Holiday cards - 25c
    • Pre-stamped envelopes - 10c
      • Stop by and stock up on supplies. Then... write lots of letters! Write to your lovely child, a favorite teacher, you child's friends, the world's best custodians and more! Click here for a directory with all the teachers' names, addresses and zip codes. Please make sure you address the envelopes correctly (there's an example of how to do it on the bottom of the directory). If you really don't get it, ask your child. "Your mail, delivered at the SPEED of light!"
    18 Dec 07 Tue The Comet Mail Post Office ENDS TODAY! Stamps on sale in the Lobby, 8:00am-8:25am. LAST DAY!
    Stamp sales at the General Post Office will begin on Wednesday, December 12th in the lobby from 8:00-8:25am and will continue at those times every day until December 18th. The General PO sells:
    • Stamps - 5c
    • Strip of 5 stamps - 25c
    • Designer postcards - 10c
    • Holiday cards - 25c
    • Pre-stamped envelopes - 10c
      • Stop by and stock up on supplies. Then... write lots of letters! Write to your lovely child, a favorite teacher, you child's friends, the world's best custodians and more! Click here for a directory with all the teachers' names, addresses and zip codes. Please make sure you address the envelopes correctly (there's an example of how to do it on the bottom of the directory). If you really don't get it, ask your child. "Your mail, delivered at the SPEED of light!"
    19 Dec 07 Wed Holiday Dance Assembly 1 show: 9:15am, in the Auditorium.
    19 Dec 07 Wed Epilepsy Training - Parents Workshop 9:00am, in the Library, Rm. 214.
    20 Dec 07 Thu Holiday Dance Assembly 2 shows: 9:15am & 1:30pm, in the Auditorium.
    21 Dec 07 Fri Last Day of School Before Winter Recess
    24 Dec 07 Mon NO SCHOOL Winter Recess.
    25 Dec 07 Tue NO SCHOOL Winter Recess.
    26 Dec 07 Wed NO SCHOOL Winter Recess.
    27 Dec 07 Thu NO SCHOOL Winter Recess.
    28 Dec 07 Fri NO SCHOOL Winter Recess.
    31 Dec 07 Mon NO SCHOOL Winter Recess.

    January '08
    01 Jan 08 Tue NO SCHOOL Winter Recess.
    02 Jan 08 Wed First Day of School Following Winter Recess
    07 Jan 08 Mon PTA Executive Board Meeting 6:15pm - 7:30pm.
    17 Jan 08 Thu SLT Meeting 6:15pm, 2nd Floor Media Center / Library.
    18 Jan 08 Fri Student March on Borough Hall 10am.
    PS 261 honors Dr. Martin Luther King in a special way this year. Students in 3rd, 4th and 5th grade will mark the historic March on Washington by marching on Borough Hall on the morning of Friday, January 18th at 10:00 a.m. this year. Many classes will march up to Borough Hall with historically accurate signs from the march itself and some select students will give parts of the "I have a dream" speech standing on the steps of the hall. In addition, some students will share their essays about how the dream is alive at PS261 - and we hope to have a little freedom songs as well. We will be honored to be met by Borough President Marty Markowitz who will introduce the students of PS261. We will need parent volunteers to help accompany the kids to Borough Hall from the school that morning and back. We would welcome parents from all grade levels, even if your child's class is not included. It will be a very special morning and one that is not to be missed!
    18 Jan 08 Fri Basketball Fundraiser 6pm, in the Gymnasium.
    Calling all Parents, Family Members, & Friends Join us Friday, January 18, 2008 @ 6 pm for

    Family vs. Faculty Basketball

    $3 Admission, $5 to play Refreshments for Sale!!! Special Half Time Activities!!!! So come out to join the fun…And bring a friend!!! This is a Fifth-Grade Fundraiser to help defray the costs of Senior Activities for the Class of 2008. Thank you for your support! And 5th grade families please join the 5th grade list serve at www.ps261.org for information on this & other Senior Class fundraisers & activities. To volunteer & get more info...
    19 Jan 08 Sat Dance-a-thon 2pm-4pm, in the Cafeteria.

    Dance-a-thon!!

    ...a fun way to raise money for the school... Saturday, January 19th, in the Cafeteria 2:00pm - 4:00pm The children get friends and family to sponsor them to dance to 20 songs. They collect the money before Jan. 19th (assume the students will dance to all 20 songs) and bring it to the event along with their pledge form. A really cool dance teacher will take students through all kinds of dance games (dance freeze, limbo, etc. - all very easy and lots of fun). The two classes that raise the most money will win either a pizza party or an ice-cream party for the entire class. It really is a wonderful event. We hope you can make it! For pledge forms or additional information, see your Class Parent.
    21 Jan 08 Mon NO SCHOOL Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
    23 Jan 08 Wed PTA General Meeting 6:15pm-7:30pm, in the Auditorium
    23 Jan 08 Wed 5th Grade 'Hawaii In January' Bake Sale NOTE: Date Subject To Change.
    The Fifth Graders are bringing the Tropics to you! Tuesday, January 22 Hawaii In January Bake Sale Please Donate:
  • Food, Baked Goods and Items from Africa, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Mexico, the Middle East, Puerto Rico, South America, Southern Asia and the South Pacific - everywhere warm!
  • Leis and Grass Skirts
  • Cold Weather Gear -- keep knitting!
    • For more information, contact the Fifth Grade Committee.
    25 Jan 08 Fri Families As Learning Partners 8:30am - 9:20am.
    29 Jan 08 Tue Picture Retake Day

    February '08
    11 Feb 08 Mon SLT Meeting 6:15pm, 2nd Floor Media Center / Library.
    12 Feb 08 Tue Evening Open House 6:30pm.
    13 Feb 08 Wed Black History Month Celebration 9:15am and 10:30am.
    14 Feb 08 Thu 5th Grade Valentine's Day Bake Sale In the school lobby.
    14 Feb 08 Thu Black History Month Celebration 9:15am.
    15 Feb 08 Fri Last Day of School Before Midwinter Recess
    15 Feb 08 Fri Pajama Day Kick-Off for Read-A-Thon The Read-A-Thon runs through Feb. 29th.
    Hey Kids - Good News! On Friday, February 15th you can SLEEP IN a little later! That's because Friday February 15th is PAJAMA DAY!!! That's right! PS261 will kick off the READ-A-THON with PAJAMA DAY. So sleep in a wear your PJ's to school...why not? Your teacher will!!! ...And get ready to record your reading for the READ-A-THON!! Parents: Your children will be receiving Read-a-thon packets from their teachers. Packets include instructions on how to participate in this great fundraiser. Write to us if you have any questions:
    18 Feb 08 Mon NO SCHOOL Midwinter Recess (including Washington's Birthday).
    19 Feb 08 Tue NO SCHOOL Midwinter Recess (including Washington's Birthday).
    20 Feb 08 Wed NO SCHOOL Midwinter Recess (including Washington's Birthday).
    21 Feb 08 Thu NO SCHOOL Midwinter Recess (including Washington's Birthday).
    22 Feb 08 Fri NO SCHOOL Midwinter Recess (including Washington's Birthday).
    25 Feb 08 Mon First Day of School Following Midwinter Recess
    28 Feb 08 Thu Black History Month Celebration 6:30pm.
    29 Feb 08 Fri Read-A-Thon Ends.
    29 Feb 08 Fri Movie Night 6pm-9pm, in the Auditorium.
    Come Join Us for Family Movie Night -Showing “HOODWINKED” Friday, February 29th from 6 to 9 pm in the Auditorium Admission: $3 per person Refreshments for sale For more info please contact: Schanequa (Courtney’s mom) 347-661-3603 or neenah74@yahoo.com Ramona (Jonathan’s mom) 347-585-9008 or molove2u2@yahoo.com This is a fundraiser to help defray the costs of Senior Activities for the Fifth Grade "Class of 2008." Thanks for your support!
    29 Feb 08 Fri Emergency PTA Meeting 8:30am-9:30am, in the Auditorium.
    Please attend this Emergency Meeting of the PS261 PTA, as we will be talking about the latest DOE budget cuts, their impact on PS261, and how we can help to deal with the crisis. New York City Council member David Yassky will be in attendance.
    29 Feb 08 Fri Deadline for March PS261 PTA Newsletter
    29 Feb 08 Fri Families As Learning Partners 9:30am - 10:30am. Immediately follows the Emergency PTA Mtg.

    March '08
    01 Mar 08 Sat First Annual PS261 Singalong 2pm-4pm, in the Auditorium.
    The 1st Annual PS 261 Community Singalong Parents and children are invited to come to experience the joy of group singing. PS 261 parents will lead students and other parents in a campfire-style singalong song circle. Parent musicians are invited to bring their guitars, banjos, harmonicas, tambourines, violins - or any other instrument- and play along. Lyric sheets with chord charts will be provided. Parents who'd like to teach a song to the group and lead the singing for that song are highly encouraged to do so, and should contact Rick Knutsen (see below) or pick up a Singalong form, available in the main office in early February, so that lyric sheets can be prepared. Note that this is not the Talent Show, nor is it meant to be a showcase for parent performers. Songs should be easy to learn, not too musically complex for young children to sing- preferably with good singalong choruses. Examples might include: If I Had a Hammer Three Little Birds (Bob Marley) Take Me Out to the Ballgame You Are My Sunshine On Top of Spaghetti We Shall Overcome Jamaica Farewell Leaving on a Jet Plane This Land Is Your Land Songs not in English (like, say, Los Pollitos) are also welcome, as long as they have a relatively short, simple chorus for the children to learn. Even if you don't think of yourself as a singer, come and sing with us! Show your children the spirit of community we can create when we raise our voices in song together. Suggested donation to the PTA: $3/parent $2/child $8/families of 4 or more 3/4/08 gmp - This event was attended by 36 people. It was great fun!
    03 Mar 08 Mon PTA Executive Board Meeting 6:15pm - 7:30pm.
    07 Mar 08 Fri Movie Night 6pm-9pm, in the Auditorium.
    10 Mar 08 Mon 5th Grade Parents Meeting 6:00pm, location TBA
    ATTENTION: Fifth Grade Parents There will be a Parent Meeting Monday, March 10th @ 6:00 pm The Agenda will include: Senior Trip Senior Dues Senior Activities (Dance & Graduation) Scholarships & fundraising Questions & Answers All Parents/Guardians are encouraged to attend.
    12 Mar 08 Wed PTA General Meeting 8:30 AM - 9:15 AM, in the Auditorium
    Agenda: 1. Approval of Minutes 2. Co-Presidents' Reports 3. Principal's Report 4. Treasurer's Report 5. Direct Appeal Update 6. DOE Budget Cuts Update 7. New Business
    13 Mar 08 Thu NOON DISMISSAL: Parent-Teacher Conferences (today only) 1:00pm-3:30pm and 6:00pm-8:30pm.
    14 Mar 08 Fri PS261 Basketball Fundraiser III 6:30pm-8:30pm, in the Gym.
    Calling all Parents, Family Members, Faculty, & Friends Please Join us for Family Basketball Night III Friday, March 14th, 6:30 to 8:30 pm $3 Admission $5 to play Refreshments for sale! VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED!!!! This is a fifth grade fundraiser to help defray the cost of Senior activities for the class of 2008. Thanks for your support.
    17 Mar 08 Mon 5th Grade Green Bake Sale In the school lobby.
    Please support the Fifth Grade GREEN BAKE SALE on Monday, March 17th Starting at 8 am in the School Lobby VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED!!! This is a fundraiser to help defray the costs of Senior Activities for the Class of 2008. Thank you for your support!
    18 Mar 08 Tue SLT Meeting 6:15pm, 2nd Floor Media Center / Library.
    P.S. 261 SLT AGENDA -Tuesday, March 18 , 2008 1. Meeting called to order and welcome – (2 minutes) 2. Summary and approval of prior meetings minutes (3 minutes) 3. School Update Vice Principal (15 minutes) 4. CEP (15 minutes) 5. Elections for next year (5 minutes) 6. SLT update for PTA newsletter (5 minutes) 7. Other Open Items (10 minutes) 8. Confirm April Meeting date & Adjourn (5 minutes)
    19 Mar 08 Wed Rally Against DOE Budget Cuts at City Hall 3:00pm, Big Yard.
    RALLY against the school budget cuts WHEN: Wednesday, March 19th WHERE: Meet at 261 playground at 3:00pm March to City Hall together for Rally at 4:00pm WHAT DO THE SCHOOL BUDGET CUTS MEAN FOR PS261? CANCELLED! Math and ELA after school preparation CANCELLED! After school chorus, dance and band practice CUT BACK! staff hours during arrival and dismissal CANCELLED! Substitute teachers for professional development / professional consultants CUT BACK! School supplies will be drastically limited; THAT MEANS LESS TOILET PAPER, BOOKS, STATIONERY ETC. GONE There is no extra money in our budget for emergency situations CANCELLED! Our mentoring program – which paired our new teachers with veteran teachers after hours – is cancelled. These promises were made last year by NY’s City and State Leaders:
  • To build more schools
  • To fund full-day Pre-Kindergarten
  • To lower class size
  • To improve middle schools
  • To expand English Language Learners programs
  • To keep after-school programs and tutoring services Instead they are cutting vital school budgets! This affects all public schools in Brooklyn. We must fight now to ensure the city leaders keep the promises they made to our kids and preserve the vital budgets that our children need and deserve. WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP? JOIN THE MARCH ON WEDNESDAY! MEET AT PS261 MARCH 19TH AT 3PM!
    • 21 Mar 08 Fri NO SCHOOL Good Friday.
    28 Mar 08 Fri Afterschool Show: Charlie And The Chocolate Factory 7:00pm, in the Auditorium.
    29 Mar 08 Sat Family Tea Party 2:30pm-5:00pm, in the cafeteria.
    The PS261 Parent Teachers Association cordially invites you to our

    Third Annual Tea Party


    Date: Saturday, March 29, 2008 Time: 2:30pm-5:00pm Place: Cafeteria, a.k.a. “Il Italiano Camera De Giochi Room” Prices: Adults - $10.00; Child - $5.00 Enjoy an afternoon of assorted tea, delicious finger foods, and delightful entertainment & ambiance inspired by the Italian culture.
    29 Mar 08 Sat Afterschool Show: Charlie And The Chocolate Factory 1:00pm, in the Auditorium.

    April '08
    02 Apr 08 Wed PTA Executive Board Meeting 6:15pm - 7:30pm.
    04 Apr 08 Fri Movie Night 6:15pm - 8:30pm, in the Auditorium.
    Movie: Ratatouille
    09 Apr 08 Wed PTA General Meeting 8:30am-9:20am, in the Auditorium
    10 Apr 08 Thu 5th Grade Meeting 8:00am SHARP, Principal Mills' office.
    15 Apr 08 Tue Picture Day - K & 5th Grade Graduation Photos
    17 Apr 08 Thu SLT Meeting 6:15pm, 2nd Floor Media Center / Library.
    17 Apr 08 Thu Spring Bake & Plant Sale All Day, In the school lobby.
    Please support the Fifth Grade SPRING has Sprung!! Plant & Bake Sale Thursday, April 17th In the school lobby Starting at 8 am Volunteers and donations are needed: adults to work the sales tables, set-up, clean-up.
    18 Apr 08 Fri Parent Volunteers Needed 8AM, in the Library, 2nd Floor.
    Open call for Parent Volunteers to help with the library on Friday, 4/18. We need folks to shelve newly purchased books from scholastic, weed out books to put in the system, add books to the system and shelve said books. Help at any or all of these stages would be great starting at 8am in library. I will leave a note with Ebony at security desk that parents will be coming. If any one interested can email me in advance so I can give her a list of names, that would be great, but don't let not rsvp'ing deter you.
    18 Apr 08 Fri 5th Grade Meeting 8:00am SHARP, Principal Mills' office.
    18 Apr 08 Fri Families As Learning Partners 8:30am - 9:20am.
    18 Apr 08 Fri Last Day of School Before Spring Recess
    21 Apr 08 Mon NO SCHOOL Spring Recess.
    22 Apr 08 Tue NO SCHOOL Spring Recess.
    22 Apr 08 Tue Earth Day
    23 Apr 08 Wed NO SCHOOL Spring Recess.
    24 Apr 08 Thu NO SCHOOL Spring Recess.
    25 Apr 08 Fri NO SCHOOL Spring Recess.
    28 Apr 08 Mon First Day of School Following Spring Recess
    29 Apr 08 Tue Spring Book Sneak Peek (Parents & Teachers Only) 8:00am-3:00pm, in the Auditorium Lobby.
    30 Apr 08 Wed The PS261 Annual Science Fair 6:00pm - 8:00pm, in the cafeteria
    We all know how much PS261 children love science! This is an opportunity for students to follow their own interests - planning and conducting an experiment around a topic of their choice. All 4th and 5th Grade students will be required to present a project. Younger students who wish to participate are encouraged to do so and will be awarded extra credit for their projects. Time will be spent during 4th and 5th Grade science classes to help students choose and plan a project. Gathering materials, conducting the experiment and writing up the presentation should be done at home. We will be sending a packet in the coming week to all 3rd - 5th Graders to help students plan and record their experiments. Additional packets will be available in the science room for any interested families. As always we are available to answer any questions you may have. We can't wait to see what the children come up with! Happy Experimenting! Carmelo and Jessica
    30 Apr 08 Wed Spring Book Fair Begins (Open Late 6pm-8pm) 8:00am-3:00pm, and OPEN LATE 6:00pm-8:00pm, in the Auditorium Lobby.

    May '08
    01 May 08 Thu Spring Book Fair Continues 8:00am-3:30pm, in the Auditorium Lobby.
    02 May 08 Fri Spring Book Fair Continues 8:00am-3:30pm, in the Auditorium Lobby.
    05 May 08 Mon PTA Executive Board Meeting 6:15pm - 7:30pm.
    05 May 08 Mon Spring Book Fair Continues 8:00am-3:30pm, in the Auditorium Lobby.
    06 May 08 Tue Spring Book Fair Continues 8:00am-3:30pm, in the Auditorium Lobby.
    06 May 08 Tue National Teacher Appreciation Day
    06 May 08 Tue Teacher Appreciation Breakfast 7:30am - 9:00am, in the Cafeteria.
    07 May 08 Wed Spring Book Fair Continues 8:00am-3:30pm, in the Auditorium Lobby.
    07 May 08 Wed PS261 Math Games Night 6:15pm-7:30pm, in the Cafeteria.
    Bring Your Brain For Math Games!! Parent Volunteers needed to help sell pizza & juice!!
    08 May 08 Thu Spring Book Fair Continues 8:00am-3:30pm, in the Auditorium Lobby.
    09 May 08 Fri Spring Book Fair Ends 8:00am-12:00pm, in the Auditorium Lobby.
    09 May 08 Fri 5th Grade Mother's Day Bake & Plant Sale All Day, In the school lobby.
    Please support the Fifth Grade! Mother's Day is ALMOST HERE! Volunteers and donations are needed: adults to work the sales tables, set-up, clean-up.
    11 May 08 Sun Mothers Day
    14 May 08 Wed Talent Show Volunteer Meeting 8:00am-8:30am, in the Auditorium. Preceding the PTA General Mtg.
    14 May 08 Wed PTA General Meeting 8:30am-9:20am, in the Auditorium
    Proposed Agenda: Call To Order SLT Explanation and Q&A
    15 May 08 Thu SLT Meeting 6:15pm, 2nd Floor Media Center / Library.
    15 May 08 Thu Picture Retake Day - Kindergarten & 5th Grade Graduation Photos In the Auditorium.
    16 May 08 Fri Principal For A Day Special Guest Principals: Superbowl Champion New York Giant #91 Justin Tuck & Green Bay Packer #25 Ryan Grant.
    Our NFL players Justin Tuck #91 from the New York Giants, and Ryan Grant #25 from the Green Bay Packers, will be here as Principals For A Day on this Friday, May 16th, 2008. The players have a full schedule for the entire school day, spending time with students from each of the grades. We respectfully ask that you refrain from requests for photographs and / or autographs unless you have purchased a ticket. Tickets will be sold Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday of this week, from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM in the school lobby, at $50.00 each. The ticket entitles you to 1 professional picture taken in the auditorium (services donated by a PS261 parent / professional photographer) as well as 1 article (that you provide) signed. Since this is a PTA Fundraising Event, and the players are waiving any and all fees for appearing at PS261, we respectfully ask that you purchase a ticket if you wish to get a photograph with / autograph from the players. This applies to the entire PS261 Community - teachers, staff, families & students. If getting your picture taken with the players and getting an autograph is not your thing, please consider donating your ticket to a child who might not otherwise get such a special opportunity. Thank You!
    16 May 08 Fri SLT Nominations Close 6:00pm Today
    17 May 08 Sat PS 261 Junior Talent Show (Grades Pre-K,K,1,2) 3:00-4:30 PM, in the Auditorium.
    17 May 08 Sat PS 261 Senior Talent Show (Grades 3,4,5) 5:00-7:00 PM, in the Auditorium.
    21 May 08 Wed 5th Grade Trip AM Departure.
    23 May 08 Fri 5th Grade Trip PM Arrival.
    26 May 08 Mon NO SCHOOL Memorial Day Observed.
    28 May 08 Wed PTA Executive Board Meeting 6:15pm - 7:30pm.

    June '08
    04 Jun 08 Wed PTA General Meeting (PTA Elections) 8:30am-9:20am, in the Auditorium
    05 Jun 08 Thu NO SCHOOL Chancellor's Conference Day.
    06 Jun 08 Fri Grandparents Day Celebration 9am - 11am, Auditorium.
    PS261 is inviting all grandparents to join us in our Fourth Annual Grandparents Day Celebration. This is a very special day for our school and we hope that all our grandparents will be able to attend. Join us for breakfast and special performances provided by several of our classes. You are then invited to spend the rest of the morning in your grandchild's classroom where the teachers have planned fun activities.
    12 Jun 08 Thu SLT Meeting 6:15pm, 2nd Floor Media Center / Library.
    13 Jun 08 Fri Annual PS261 Spring Auction 7:00-10:00pm, NY City Explorers
    Get set to have a great evening with your fellow parents and friends of PS 261. Enjoy good eats and drink, and be ready to place your bids on fabulous auction items. Volunteers urgently needed to help with promoting the event, requesting donations and helping out the night of the event. If interested, please notify the contacts listed below. We also welcome donations of items from our exceptionally talented teachers and parent community! More information to follow and again, please save the date. We look forward to you joining us! TO DONATE ITEMS FOR THE AUCTION: Click Here for the Donation Form
    18 Jun 08 Wed PTA Executive Board (Transition) Meeting 6:15pm - 7:30pm.
    19 Jun 08 Thu 5th Grade Dance 6pm-9pm, in the Gymnasium.
    Volunteers are needed to chaperone, set-up, decorate, clean-up. We need a volunteer photographer to take individual keepsake pictures, food donations, cake, punch/beverages, tabelclothes, Class of 2008 decorations, etc.
    20 Jun 08 Fri Pre-K Graduation Date Subject To Change.
    23 Jun 08 Mon Fifth Grade Graduation 9:00am.
    24 Jun 08 Tue Kindergarten Graduation Date Subject To Change.
    26 Jun 08 Thu Last Day of School for All Students