Back to School 2024
August 2, 2024
Dear Lowell Families,
Welcome to the start of an exciting new school year! Whether you are a returning family or joining us for the first time, we extend a warm welcome to every one of you. The purpose of this newsletter is to let you know some key information to ensure we are collectively prepared for the upcoming school year.
- We will continue to be a late-start school. Here are our bell times:
- M, Tu, Th, F – Doors open at 8:40, school starts 8:55, and school releases at 3:25.
- Wed – Doors open at 8:40, school starts 8:55, and school releases at 2:10.
- Bus route information will be sent directly to families closer to the end of the month. If you have specific questions, please utilize the “Let’s Talk” option on the SPS-Transportation website.
- Breakfast and lunch will continue to be free to all students at no-cost this year.
- The First Day of School for 1st – 5th graders will be Wednesday, Sept 4. School doors open at 8:40 and school releases at 2:10. Preschool and Kindergarten’s first day is Monday, Sept 9.
- Enrollment continues and class lists are in process. Your child’s teacher will reach out to you with a personal introduction via phone or e-mail the week of August 26.
- If you are receiving this email and will no longer be attending Lowell, please email Tammy Watson at tawatson@seattleschools.org to let us know about the enrollment change.
- Welcome to Kindergarten: When kindergarten teachers call to introduce themselves the week of August 26, they will also schedule a Family Connection Conference. These 1-1 family-teacher conferences will be held between Sept 4-6, either in-person or over Microsoft Teams, depending on your preference. Please check out this welcome video from our Kindergarten team, sharing ideas that can support readiness. Due to budget limitations, there will not be a Kindergarten Jump Start event this year at Lowell.
- Monday Food Hub: This August, the Lowell Food Hub is excited to offer meal kits for pick-up every Monday from 12pm-4pm! Meal kits will include recipes for two lunch/dinner meals and one breakfast. Expect tasty options like cereal, pancakes, stir-fries, and casseroles! Sign up to reserve a food bag, sign up.
- Childcare: The Boys and Girls Club operates an after-school program on-site at Lowell. If you would like more information about registration, please email Erika Kerr at EKerr@positiveplace.org
- School Supplies: Lowell does not have a school supply list – and please do not feel like you need to purchase anything. Students may bring their own backpack and/or pencil case if they would like. Our supplies are shared collectively. If you would like to contribute, please work directly with your child’s teacher to see what specific needs they have for their classroom.
- All families are invited to our annual kick-off engagement event, Popsicles on the Playground. This will be on Tuesday, Sept 3 from 2:30-3:30. This will be a chance to meet your new teacher, connect with friends, enjoy music, do some chalk art, play outside, and high-five our Dragon mascot. Our Community Partners, including the school-based Health Center, will be on-site to support with questions. Backpacks will also be available for pick-up.
Here are some ways to stay connected to Lowell staff and families:
- Download the Talking Points app. It is through this app that the district, school, and your child(ren)s teacher(s) may communicate with you. Be sure to regularly do app updates to ensure you continue receiving these messages throughout the year.
- Set up your Source account. The Source is Seattle Public Schools’ tool that allows parents to view attendance, grades, test scores, and schedules.
- Visit the Lowell PTA website where you can learn about how to get involved in supporting the school and join the email listserv to get regular updates. Direct questions to PTA President Courtney Zier at president@lowellelementary.org
- Visit the Lowell Website. This will provide information about upcoming events and our current newsletter, along with photos of the school and staff rosters/contact information.
We will send out family email updates at least monthly, beginning in late August. If you have any questions in the meantime, please feel free to e-mail cldziedzic@seattleschools.org
With excitement for the year ahead and gratitude for your partnership,
Ms. Chelsea Dziedzic (pronounced Jay-Jick), Lowell Principal
Ms. Antonia Woods, Lowell Assistant Principal