Dear Ocean Shore Families,
 
Hello!  It was wonderful to see so many parents last night at our PTO meeting.  I reflected on the evening posted below. 
 
I also wish to acknowledge the outpouring of support towards our 4th grader Andrew Vara and his family.  Many parents expressed their desire to help, even if they did not know the family personally.  Ocean Shore parents Kate Sosnowski and Rebecca Chapman have established a meal train for the family.  Please see the link below if you wish to contribute with a meal or gift card for meal.  What a lovely way to support this family!

 https://www.mealtrain.com/trains/eyrwo2?intro=true

​Reflections from our PTO Meeting:
Last night, the focus of our PTO meeting was on student safety.  Being that “safety” truly encompasses a wide range of topics from school safety protocols to the social and emotional needs of our students, last night’s meetings allowed our community to engage in some very meaningful conversations.  The PTO facilitated three different sessions around topics such as school safety protocols, understanding trauma and how best to provide support, and guiding children to safely use the internet and other online social media platforms. 
 
I enjoyed talking with many parents about the Big 5 Safety protocols.  As I mentioned last night, yesterday a team of Ocean Shore parents and staff attended a training on the safety protocols (posted below for your reference).  One emphasis of the training was a new protocol known as “Think on Your Feet” which I feel is extremely important and transferrable beyond the campus.  This protocol teaches our kids how to look, listen, and think critically about their actions and surroundings in response to a threatening situation whether they are at school, a movie theater or a crowded mall.  At Ocean Shore, this is something our staff and students will be practicing in our next drills.
 
Following the training, our safety team of teachers spent the afternoon reviewing and updating our Comprehensive School Safety Plan, which is dynamic in nature and designed to respond to a variety of situations including how and where our school would evacuate.  Our team also reviewed our student reunification plan in effort to develop the most efficient forms of communication to families in the event of an emergency.  Emergency preparedness is a dynamic process which requires collaboration and flexibility to respond to a variety of circumstances.  Be assured that teachers/staff do have plans in place to address potential circumstances and communication with parents/families will be tailored to address a particular event.  For instance, evacuation routes and designated off-site locations are not generally shared as a matter of safety (so as not to inform someone intent to do harm), and the appropriate method of evacuation and off-site selection will be event/threat specific.   In the event of an emergency, the reunification notification would be provided parents via text, phone, and/or email once the children are safely in a designated area and away from danger or the threat is abated. 
 
This is very important work, and a job we do not take lightly.  There is nothing more important than your child’s safety.  I applaud the efforts of our parent community and PTO to educate themselves on the plans we have in place to respond.  We are fortunate to the have the guidance of the Big 5 Safety Protocols from the San Mateo County Coalition for Safe Schools and Communities.  I invite you to engage in the process with us as we test our practices with our upcoming safety drills.  You will be notified ahead of time to be able to support your child’s understanding at home.  If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.  Again, there is nothing more important than the safety of your child.  I would welcome the opportunity to talk further with you and become involved with our preparations around this topic. Also, check the following websites for more information:  

Common Sense Media 

Big 5 Safety Protocol 

RTS (Trauma Services) 

​Exciting News!  OSS Oceans 411 Receives $15,000 Grant from the Charles A. Becker Foundation!
 
Another exciting announcement was shared last night at our meeting.  Our school received a generous $15,000 grant from the Charles A. Becker Foundation to support Oceans 411!  This is a signature program of our school, and one that I am personally ecstatic to be part of for the first time!  Our Vice Principal Seva and teacher Sheila received this grant from the Becker Foundation.  We are so fortunate to have this funding to provide this extraordinary opportunity for our students!  For many years, Ocean Shore has been ahead of the game when it comes to marine science.  With the onset of the Next Generation Science Standards, schools have more robust standards in their science curriculum.  However this has been in existence at Ocean Shore for over 30 years thanks to the focus of such events like Oceans Week.  Considering the challenges our oceans face and that the students are literally learning about their own “ocean backyard”, having the funding support to see Oceans 411 continue to thrive is supremely exciting.  Join me in extending our gratitude to Eric and the Becker Foundation for their support of our program!  Here are some pictures from last night: 

​Fundraising Updates!
It's back! Empowered Fitness offers the Get Lean Challenge. Two offers! The best deal is the two for one price! Check out the details and registration on the fundraising webpage. Flyers posted on campus! 
 
Offer a Count Me In Event for the Silent Auction on the week of March 18-22. Need ideas or want to submit something for the event..the form is available online on the fundraising page or in the parent hall on the fundraising news board. Questions contact ossfundraisingmgr@gmail.com 
 
Flock Your Friends! Did you see the cute flamingos on our campus? Greet your friends, family or make it a Valentine Greeting! Email Mary at OSSFlockers@yahoo.com.  Forms in the parent hallway or on our webpage for prices and more information.
 
Have you checked with your company if there is a donation matching program? Look into it for the possibility your family donation could be matched. 
 
 
Staff Makin’ Waves:
Many thanks to our dear 4th/5th grade teacher Patty who has so lovingly led her class through a challenging week with their classmate Andrew being absent. As she tells us, technology is not something she uses with the most ease.  However, I admired how she challenged herself to learn how to Face Time with Andrew while he is home recovering.  Here is a picture of her 4th graders including him from home in their literature groups this week.

F

From the Front Office:
 
WE NEED YOU! New Year, New Habits!  Can you lend us a few minutes before school in the morning for a week?  Do you find yourself frustrated when dropping off your child for school for the lack of safe driving practices from other parents!  Join our task force and earn bonus volunteer hours!  We are looking for parents willing to help us monitor our two drop-off spots during the 15 minutes before school.  Parents would wear a safety vest (affectionately labeled “Respect the Vest”) and be a presence to encourage parents to be compliant with our traffic rules.  We are also looking for anyone willing to help schedule volunteers.  Let’s tackle this challenge with a solution!  Channel your inner-child that dreamed of being a traffic safety officer, and volunteering with your friends is highly encouraged!  Please email me at jtarango@pacifica.sd.org if you are willing to help! 
 
Important Information for Families Registering a Sibling Into Ocean Shore Next year!  YOU MUST ENROLL YOUR YOUNGER SIBLINGS with the Kindergarten Sibling / Priority Enrollment card! These cards should be turned in as soon as possible, and can be turned into Patricia. These are in the Pacifica School District Kindergarten Enrollment 2019-2020 packet.  Please stop by the front office if you need a copy.  If you have a child who will be 5 years of age on or before September 1, 2019, your child is eligible to attend kindergarten in the fall 2019.  If your child will turn 5 between September 2 and December 2, 2019, please request the Transitional Kindergarten Enrollment Card. 
 
New After School Activities for 3rd - 8th Graders Facilitated by our Own Mika Duff (Ocean Shore School Psychologist)
Karate Club
Grades 3 - 5
Limit of 15 students (first come, first served)
Wednesdays after school
1:15 – 2:00 PM
Starting February 13th
Ending March 27th
Multipurpose Room
 
Exercise is great for every kid, and Karate is a fun way to exercise! Students will learn all about a traditional style of Karate that comes from Okinawa, Japan. Karate means “empty hand” and was originally developed for self –defense, but today Karate is also used as a way to build physical fitness and mental strength, and as a great way to release energy and stress. Students will be taught to block, punch, and kick in a fun, friendly, and safe environment that promotes learning and camaraderie. This club encourages the development of a fun active lifestyle, becoming your best self, and also follows a strict non-violence doctrine. Spaces are limited, please email me to sign up: MDuff@pacificasd.org
 
 
Drawing Club
Grades 6 – 8
Limit of 10 students (first come, first served)
Fridays after school
3:15 – 4 PM
Starting February 15th
Ending March 29th
(March 8this a minimum day, Drawing Club will be held directly after school at 1:15)
Art Room 
 
Release your inner creativity! If you love drawing, come learn how to do it like the pros! Students will learn the basics of drawing and explore concepts like form, construction lines, shapes, perspective, shading, and more. They will learn how to draw some of their favorite cartoon characters and get a chance to draw some characters of their own too. Spaces are limited, please email me to sign up: MDuff@pacificasd.org

Yearbooks are on Sale! Our middle school staff will be working hard to preserve your memories.  Don't let these memories pass you by, order yours today online visit:
www.treering.com/validate
Private OSS passcode: 1014115995473789.  If you have any questions contact tanyaguido@comcast.net

The Yearbook is in need of photos for events and classrooms. We would love your photos!
You can submit them to treering.com or tanyaguido@comcast.net and in the subject line write - Yearbook 


Photos needed: 

-All and any teacher classroom photos
-1st day of school
-talent show
-koa 
-outdoor movie
-end of year picnic
-social events 
-oceans week 
-Fort Ross 
-robotics 
-band 
-diversity day
-ability awareness day 


Thank you 
Tanya Guido 
 
From the Diversity Leadership Group (DLG)
Ability Awareness Week is coming up next week!  We will host a celebratory potluck for our presenters, staff and guests on Friday 2/1 and would appreciate food donations from the Ocean Shore Community.  Earn hours, and contribute to a good cause.  Brunch food, snacks, baked goods, fruit ~ whatever you want to make, all is welcome.   Drop off in the Staff Room Friday morning.  Please let Jonelle know what you can bring: jonelle.matt@comcast.net
 

From PEF Corner:
 
A wonderful event is approaching you won’t want to miss!  It’s January Jazz!
 
Music Matters in Pacifica (MMiP, a PEF program!) presents January Jazz Night!  Saturday, January 26th, 2019 at the Pacifica Moose Lodge (776 Bradford Way).
 
4pm: Matinee featuring Pacifica School District Jazz Ensembles (Cabrillo, Vallemar, Ingrid B. Lacy, and Ocean Shore Schools) and featuring special guests:  The Terra Nova High School Jazz Ensemble.  $15 for adults, $10 for children under 10 yrs.
7pm: An Adult evening featuring a live musical lineup!  Entry includes Dinner, Silent Auction and a beverage ticket!   $40 per person (21 or older, only).
 
Tickets available at https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4028556 and space is limited, so buy your ticket(s) ASAP.  Save $10 When purchasing a Combination Ticket for Matinee and Evening Admission!  ($45 for both events).  Tickets can also be purchased at the door, at face value.
 
NEXT WEEK HAPPENINGS! (NOTE:   Next Week Is “Abilities Awareness” Week for all of our Students!)
 
1/26  Music Matters in Pacifica (MMiP, a PEF program!) presents January Jazz Night!  Saturday, January 26th, 2019 at the Pacifica Moose Lodge (776 Bradford Way).
 
Monday 1/28:  Live Scan Fingerprinting at Ocean Shore for Parent Volunteers.  Click HERE for the link to sign up for this one-day event. 
 
Friday, 2/1:  School Assembly for all Students in Celebration of Abilities Week
 
Upcoming Dates:
 
Tuesday, 2/12:  Food Allergy Expert & Specialist Dr. Rani Maskatia Shares the Latest in Food Allergy Research, Diagnostics, and Treatment Options
Tuesday, Feb. 12, 7:00 pm, Martin Family Hall. Join us for an educational community event offering information and support to food allergic families and friends featuring Dr. Rani Maskatia, a board-certified allergist and immunologist from Latitude Food Allergy Care who has deep training and expertise in food allergy diagnosis and treatment. You will also hear from experts from the Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research at Stanford, and children and families who have been through treatment will share how it improved their quality of life. This is an open event, please feel free to share the invitation. RSVP event here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/food-allergy-information-session-registration-54938770341
 
 
Weekly Flyers:  

Dear Ocean Shore Families,
 
Hello!  We have an important meeting coming up next week Thursday (1/24) at 6:30 pm for the mandatory PTO General Meeting.  The focus is on student safety and wellness, and I look forward to spending the evening discussing this very important topic with you.  Also, be sure to look at the exciting opportunities for students offered after school.  There is still space available for ASEP.  Click HERE 

Reflections from My Office:
Last night I sent you an email with a link to a site posted on Caring Bridge, regarding the status of one of our 4th graders.  I hope you had a chance to look at it, especially today as some new positive developments occurred overnight!  Please take a look below: 
 

https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/andrewvara
 
I had the chance to visit with Andrew’s class this morning.  His dear teacher Patty led a supportive and constructive discussion about how we can best support Andrew until his return to school.  The class was eager to hear how he was doing in the hospital.  They were very happy to learn that Andrew has a large screen TV allowing him to use his X-Box!  One of his friends shared that he was able to Face Time with Andrew after school yesterday and they even could play video games together!    The kids were all smiles for their friend who they have been missing and worried about his absence.  I speak for all of us at Ocean Shore when I say that Andrew and his family have been in our thoughts and minds the past few days, as he is deeply cared for by us all.  Hearing this positive update this morning and knowing he is in the good care of a wonderful doctor made us take one, giant collective sigh of relief.  While the journey continues for Andrew and his family, we will continue to envelope them in the strength and care of our Ocean Shore community. 
 
Reflections from This Week:
On Tuesday, we celebrated Dr. Martin Luther King’s birthday.  Given the rain, we huddled inside the MPR to hear one of his speeches.  Listening to this together as whole school and hearing his voice over the loudspeaker is one of the beautiful traditions our school has celebrated for many years. Given the rain, we changed our venue, which provided a nice opportunity for us to view the video, in addition to hearing his words.  Our teacher Jonathan led the assembly and shared a speech with the students that Dr. King gave to a group of middle school students in 1967.  It was incredibly moving, and I know I was not the only one in the room who found a tear or two rolling down my cheek as you took in the magnitude of the wisdom of Dr. King’s words as he advised students to be their best and not let anyone else determine their destiny.  For me, the tears came when our kids spontaneously erupted into cheers and applause at different moments in the speech, indicating the power and timeless nature of Dr. King’s sage advice.  It was incredibly inspiring! 
 
The beautiful morning concluded with the chorus of all students singing “This Little Light of Mine” where the lyrics had been adjusted to encourage each student to let their light shine on our own Pacifica community.  A few students to lead the school in the song joined our teachers, Jonathan and Jason.  Our volunteer David and our tech crew helped create a beautiful media display to celebrate an important American hero.  I encourage you to ask your child about their takeaway from the morning.  Here are a few images to share with you. 

Staff Makin’ Waves:
I want to recognize the response our team of staff and teachers provided to an emergency situation this week.  Each member intuitively and swiftly jumped in to assist in the need to care for a student.  Our school team is strong.  This week, an emergency tested that strength, and I am incredibly humbled and proud to call each of them partners.  The students of Ocean Shore rest in good hands, everyday - all day long.
  
From the Front Office:
 
WE NEED YOU! New Year, New Habits!  Can you lend us a few minutes before school in the morning for a week?  Do you find yourself frustrated when dropping off your child for school for the lack of safe driving practices from other parents!  Join our task force and earn bonus volunteer hours!  We are looking for parents willing to help us monitor our two drop-off spots during the 15 minutes before school.  Parents would wear a safety vest (affectionately labeled “Respect the Vest”) and be a presence to encourage parents to be compliant with our traffic rules.  We are also looking for anyone willing to help schedule volunteers.  Let’s tackle this challenge with a solution!  Channel your inner-child that dreamed of being a traffic safety officer, and volunteering with your friends is highly encouraged!  Please email me at jtarango@pacifica.sd.org if you are willing to help! 
 
Important Information for Families Registering a Sibling Into Ocean Shore Next year!  YOU MUST ENROLL YOUR YOUNGER SIBLINGS with the Kindergarten Sibling / Priority Enrollment card! These cards should be turned in as soon as possible, and can be turned into Patricia. These are in the Pacifica School District Kindergarten Enrollment 2019-2020 packet.  Please stop by the front office if you need a copy.  If you have a child who will be 5 years of age on or before September 1, 2019, your child is eligible to attend kindergarten in the fall 2019.  If your child will turn 5 between September 2 and December 2, 2019, please request the Transitional Kindergarten Enrollment Card. 
 
From the After School Enrichment Program
ASEP Spring Season Classes begin 1/22 (after MLK day)
 
**ONLINE REGISTRATION Monday 1/4  @ 7:30PM AT WWW.OSSASEP.STORE
 
ASEP IN PERSON REGISTRATION FORM DROP OFF, ON Monday 1/4 TO OFFICE!
Please note ~ ONLINE REGISTRATION TAKES PRIORITY OVER IN PERSON FORMS.
 
Please note there is a pass lock on the website to avoid early registration.  The pass lock will be lifted at 7:30pm on registration day; therefore you WILL NOT need a login or password to purchase classes.  
 
Please take a moment to review the website www.ossasep.store for all our upcoming Spring session classes.  Classes are subject to change, and move rooms. Please review again when you sign up. 
 
Payment can be made by PayPal, OR Credit Card VIA PAYPAL. A PayPal account will be required to complete any transaction, including Credit Card. Please have your login and password ready at the time of signup. 
 
Please read the FAQ here https://ossasep.store/faq/ for more information prior to signing up. 
 
 Please email with questions.  Thank you for contributing to the success of this program.
 
ASEP COORDINATOR MEGAN McKENNA OSS.ASEP@GMAIL.COM
 
Yearbooks are on Sale! Our middle school staff will be working hard to preserve your memories.  Don't let these memories pass you by, order yours today online visit:
www.treering.com/validate
Private OSS passcode: 1014115995473789.  If you have any questions contact tanyaguido@comcast.net

The Yearbook is in need of photos for events and classrooms. We would love your photos!
You can submit them to treering.com or tanyaguido@comcast.net and in the subject line write - Yearbook 


Photos needed: 
-All and any teacher classroom photos
-1st day of school
-talent show
-koa 
-outdoor movie
-end of year picnic
-social events 
-oceans week 
-Fort Ross 
-robotics 
-band 
-diversity day
-ability awareness day 

Thank you 
Tanya Guido 
 
Student Safety:  Have you noticed the new signs around school?  Thanks to the efforts of an Ocean Shore parent (Jordan Steele-BeDell) and her efforts to coordinate with our local city engineers, our kids’ route to school became a safer passage!  Take a look at the new sign! 

From PEF Corner:
 
A wonderful event is approaching you won’t want to miss!  It’s January Jazz!
 
Music Matters in Pacifica (MMiP, a PEF program!) presents January Jazz Night!  Saturday, January 26th, 2019 at the Pacifica Moose Lodge (776 Bradford Way).
 
4pm: Matinee featuring Pacifica School District Jazz Ensembles (Cabrillo, Vallemar, Ingrid B. Lacy, and Ocean Shore Schools) and featuring special guests:  The Terra Nova High School Jazz Ensemble.  $15 for adults, $10 for children under 10 yrs.
7pm: An Adult evening featuring a live musical lineup!  Entry includes Dinner, Silent Auction and a beverage ticket!   $40 per person (21 or older, only).
 
Tickets available at https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4028556 and space is limited, so buy your ticket(s) ASAP.  Save $10 When purchasing a Combination Ticket for Matinee and Evening Admission!  ($45 for both events).  Tickets can also be purchased at the door, at face value.
 
NEXT WEEK HAPPENINGS!
 
1/20:   MLK Special Beach Clean-UP  Join us January 19th for MLK Day of Service from 9am to 10am for the beach cleanup & from 10am to Noon for the native plants and habitat restoration. More info and registration on our website at www.pacificabeachcoalition.org/annual-mlk-cleanup-planting
 
1/21 NO SCHOOL in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King’s birthday.
 
1/23  OCEAN SHORE MATH FAIR Fun, Food, Games, and Prizes at the MATH FAIR!!
 
All kids in Kindergarten through third grade and their parents are welcome to the Math Fair on Wednesday, January 23rd. You can start the evening with a delicious 7th grade fundraiser dinner at 5:30pm.  After the fundraiser, there will be games and fun at the Math Fair from 6:30-7:45pm in the MPR.  Look for Math Fair posters around the school for more information.  Any questions can be answered by Jason McArthur or any 7th/8th grader

Math Fair Menu
1) Chicken Katsu Rice Bowl $8 - 60
2) Soy Ginger Glazed Ribs Rice Bowl $8 - 40 meals
3) Five Spice Tofu Rice Bowl $8 - 25
All served with a salad and a drink included
Other items for sale: Chips, snacks, cookies, brownies, and other treats.
 
1/24 GENERAL PTO MEETING 6:30 – 9:00 pm!  A very important meeting is approaching!  Save the date for our next General PTO Meeting which parents are required to attend.  The focus of the meeting will be on student safety and wellness, along with an important business meeting.
 
TIME:  6:30 – 9 pm.
Location:  We will begin in the MPR! 
 
1/26  Music Matters in Pacifica (MMiP, a PEF program!) presents January Jazz Night!  Saturday, January 26th, 2019 at the Pacifica Moose Lodge (776 Bradford Way).
 
Upcoming Dates:
 
Food Allergy Expert & Specialist Dr. Rani Maskatia Shares the Latest in Food Allergy Research, Diagnostics, and Treatment Options
Tuesday, Feb. 12, 7:00 pm, Martin Family Hall. Join us for an educational community event offering information and support to food allergic families and friends featuring Dr. Rani Maskatia, a board-certified allergist and immunologist from Latitude Food Allergy Care who has deep training and expertise in food allergy diagnosis and treatment. You will also hear from experts from the Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research at Stanford, and children and families who have been through treatment will share how it improved their quality of life. This is an open event, please feel free to share the invitation. RSVP event here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/food-allergy-information-session-registration-54938770341
 
 
Weekly Flyers:  

Dear Ocean Shore Families,
 
Happy New Year!  I hope 2019 arrived with rejuvenation!  I have enjoyed hearing the stories from our children about their Winter Break adventures.  It sounds like our Ocean Shore families traveled far, enjoyed skiing and snow, or had restful time at home with family and friends.  My dog Bea and I took a long road trip to visit friends.  We went as far as the Guadalupe Valley in Mexico.  It was great and a wonderful reminder that we live in such a beautiful part of the world.  The California coast can’t be beat!
 
Reflections From My Office: 
Yesterday was “5th Grade Step Up Day” at Ocean Shore.  This day was pretty special and one I will long remember.  During the school day, the 5th graders were invited to tour our middle school classrooms and hear from our current middle school students and teachers.  The event began by inviting the kids into the staff lounge!  The look on their faces when they learned they were allowed to gather in this special room reserved for our teachers to eat lunch was priceless.  Eyes wide, they were eager to take in the surroundings.  Our 4/5 teacher Patty, Vice Principal Seva and myself greeted them where we explained we intentionally invited them into the staff lounge to impress upon them how much we wanted them to continue their Ocean Shore experience through their middle school years. 
 
We then walked our kids through the classrooms and concluded the day in Jonathan’s class where a panel of 6th, 7th and 8th graders spoke about the different opportunities, electives and programs they would have available to them as middle schoolers at Ocean Shore.  One 5th grader was ecstatic to learn that by joining the advanced band elective as a 7th grader, he might be able to join the field trip to Six Flags!  Other students were excited to learn from some 8th graders that elective classes offered such as debate, cooking, computer programming, and songwriting.  One 8th grader explained how much he has enjoyed being a peer mediator – an elective class led by our school counselor.  He explained how much he was learning by working with younger students at recess in the Peace Garden to help them resolve conflict around topics such as who was fairly “out” at kickball.  Most importantly, something unique to Ocean Shore is the ability for our middle school kids to take multiple electives in a single trimester as opposed to the same elective class everyday.  They could be helping manage the Coffee Cart with our special needs class one day and be Teacher’s Assistant the next day!
 
A question that arose a few times was the topic of homework.  One 6th grader explained it well when she said that while there is more homework, this is consistent with all other 6th grade experiences at all schools.  The reason why there is more homework is because students are able to handle more at school and kids get time to complete assignments at school.  She then reassured the 5th graders that as long as they were “responsible” with managing their time at school, they will not have any trouble finishing their work!  I think the whole class let out a little silent sigh of relief! 
 
The middle school kids talked to the students for 30 minutes and answered their questions.  It was quite a sweet moment when you realize that nothing is more impactful than when kids teach other kids – something that Ocean Shore rests upon often.  It was a great afternoon and as I explained to them, we love them all very much and hope they continue to call Ocean Shore home for their middle school years!
 
In the evening, we hosted a similar event for parents.  Teachers such as Beccy, Sarah and Natalie joined Seva and I to host a panel of current Ocean Shore middle school students and our stellar alumni of current high school and college students.  Their insight was very valuable in how they shared that they felt their years at Ocean Shore prepared them to be successful in high school.  They spoke about the leadership roles they readily assumed and the ways they felt they had an advantage over their peers by their ability to know how to collaborate with their peers and were unafraid to ask for help from their teachers.  They explained how they never flinched when asked to give an oral report because this was “just something we always do” at Ocean Shore – having presentations and teaching opportunities embedded into every classroom. 
 
I was in awe of not only what the alumni and middle school students shared but also how they shared it.  They spoke with confidence and poise, and articulated how they felt they were given life skills that will transcend any curriculum.  When we think about how we want to send our students into the “real-world” – equipped with the ability to be problem-solvers and peacemakers – I think we can give our Ocean Shore students a passing grade.  With a society and world that is increasingly reliant on screens to communicate, it was refreshing to see that our students who are now in high school are able to draw upon successfully both the digital literacy and verbal communication skills requisite of the 21st century learner. While these intrinsic skills are nurtured during their formative middle school years, they also are equipped with the academic rigor allowing them to be advanced in their high school courses.  The alumni proudly talked about how they were able to advance their math pathway, and were given opportunities in middle school to do math enrichment activities promoting their ability to accelerate and self-motivate.
 
I look forward to replicating this event in the future!  I was exceptionally proud of the “product” our school produces – our students.  I encourage you to talk with a few of our Ocean Shore alumni about how they felt they were incredibly prepared to be successful students – and future leaders of our world! 
 
Her is a look at our 5th graders in the staff lounge and the middle school student panel talking to the students:

Staff Makin’ Waves:
Over the winter break, we were grateful for the help of one of our school volunteers, David Bradley.  A big thank you to David Bradley who oversaw the migration of our whale skull indoors over the break to keep them protected from the rain! Monday morning David and our parent volunteer John Edwards finished moving the bones to a safer location.  The bones have been drying for just over two weeks now, safe from the elements and with the aid of a dehumidifier. Though very fragile, they look better already. 
Parents Makin’ Waves: Thank you to Adrian Smith, a 3rd grade parent. He created the wonderful Oceans 411 promotional video and is volunteering on the Oceans 411 committee -planning for Oceans 411 for this year.  We are grateful for this support! 
 
From the Front Office:
 
New Year, New Habits!  Can you lend us a few minutes before school in the morning for a week?  Do you find yourself frustrated when dropping off your child for school for the lack of safe driving practices from other parents!  Join our task force and earn bonus volunteer hours!  We are looking for parents willing to help us monitor our two drop-off spots during the 15 minutes before school.  Parents would wear a safety vest (affectionately labeled “Respect the Vest”) and be a presence to encourage parents to be compliant with our traffic rules.  We are also looking for anyone willing to help schedule volunteers.  Let’s tackle this challenge with a solution!  Channel your inner-child that dreamed of being a traffic safety officer, and volunteering with your friends is highly encouraged!  Please email me at jtarango@pacifica.sd.org if you are willing to help! 
 
Important Information for Families Registering a Sibling Into Ocean Shore Next year!  YOU MUST ENROLL YOUR YOUNGER SIBLINGS with the Kindergarten Sibling / Priority Enrollment card! These cards should be turned in as soon as possible, and can be turned into Patricia. These are in the Pacifica School District Kindergarten Enrollment 2019-2020 packet.  Please stop by the front office if you need a copy.  If you have a child who will be 5 years of age on or before September 1, 2019, your child is eligible to attend kindergarten in the fall 2019.  If your child will turn 5 between September 2 and December 2, 2019, please request the Transitional Kindergarten Enrollment Card. 
 
Yearbooks are on Sale! Our middle school staff will be working hard to preserve your memories.  Don't let these memories pass you by, order yours today online visit:
www.treering.com/validate
Private OSS passcode: 1014115995473789.  If you have any questions contact tanyaguido@comcast.net
 
School Safety Update:
From Safe Routes to School:  Please Lend Your Voice!  Safe Routes to School brings us Y-Bikes and Lower Your Carbon Footprint Days. In the past, the district has received some support for infrastructure as well. Two years ago, Pacifica had such a good response rate that we got some extra funding!
 
Thank you for taking the time to complete this survey. Your feedback allows us to adjust Safe Routes to School (SRTS) education and encouragement program features to best meet the needs of each individual school.  Your feedback will also be shared with decision makers throughout the county who can address infrastructure issues regarding safe walking and biking.  This survey will take approximately 5 minutes to complete.
 
LINK TO SURVEY - https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/1819_English
 
From the After School Enrichment Program
ASEP Spring Season Classes begin 1/22 (after MLK day)
 
**ONLINE REGISTRATION Monday 1/4  @ 7:30PM AT WWW.OSSASEP.STORE
 
ASEP IN PERSON REGISTRATION FORM DROP OFF, ON Monday 1/4 TO OFFICE!
Please note ~ ONLINE REGISTRATION TAKES PRIORITY OVER IN PERSON FORMS.
 
Please note there is a pass lock on the website to avoid early registration.  The pass lock will be lifted at 7:30pm on registration day; therefore you WILL NOT need a login or password to purchase classes.  
 
Please take a moment to review the website www.ossasep.store for all our upcoming Spring session classes.  Classes are subject to change, and move rooms. Please review again when you sing up. 
 
Payment can be made by PayPal, OR Credit Card VIA PAYPAL. A PayPal account will be required to complete any transaction, including Credit Card. Please have your login and password ready at the time of signup. 
 
Please read the FAQ here https://ossasep.store/faq/ for more information prior to signing up. 
 
 Please email with questions.  Thank you for contributing to the success of this program.
 
ASEP COORDINATOR MEGAN McKENNA OSS.ASEP@GMAIL.COM
 
Sharp Park Clean Up Day! 
Ocean Shores adopted beach, Sharp Park, has their monthly beach cleanup tomorrow (1/12) at 9am. For more info and to sign up visit https://www.pacificabeachcoalition.org/ 
 
Bring the family; everybody’s hours count as volunteer hours. 
 
 
From PEF Corner:
 
A wonderful event is approaching you won’t want to miss!  It’s January Jazz!
 
Music Matters in Pacifica (MMiP, a PEF program!) presents January Jazz Night!  Saturday, January 26th, 2019 at the Pacifica Moose Lodge (776 Bradford Way).
 
4pm: Matinee featuring Pacifica School District Jazz Ensembles (Cabrillo, Vallemar, Ingrid B. Lacy, and Ocean Shore Schools) and featuring special guests:  The Terra Nova High School Jazz Ensemble.  $15 for adults, $10 for children under 10 yrs.
7pm: An Adult evening featuring a live musical lineup!  Entry includes Dinner, Silent Auction and a beverage ticket!   $40 per person (21 or older, only).
 
Tickets available at https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4028556 and space is limited, so buy your ticket(s) ASAP.  Save $10 When purchasing a Combination Ticket for Matinee and Evening Admission!  ($45 for both events).  Tickets can also be purchased at the door, at face value.
 
NEXT WEEK HAPPENINGS!
MONDAY 1/14:  Environmental Action Team (EAT) meeting from 6-8 in the library

TUESDAY 1/15:  MLK Celebration Day on Tuesday, January 15th! Help show respect by wearing your best for this important celebration! We will celebrate the life and lessons of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on his real birthday this Tuesday, January 15. The staff at Ocean Shore and the Diversity Leadership Group is asking students to honor this day by being “kids of character.” To that end, we would like students to dress for a special occasion—to wear clothing that is personally meaningful or that reflects our sense of school community with the OSS logo. We will continue the Ocean Shore tradition of listening to the words of Martin Luther King Jr. and singing “This Little Light of Mine” in the schoolyard (or hallways if it is raining). The event will begin at 8:30 and conclude before 9. All are welcomed to stay on campus for the celebration."

THURSDAY1/17:  Diversity Leadership Group (DLG) meeting from 6-8 pm in the library. The Diversity Leadership Group welcomes your voice in an upcoming discussion of school culture. If you would like to propose a topic for consideration or assist in planning Celebrate Diversity Day, join the January meeting. For more information, contact Lissin at Lissin@EarthCapades.com.
 
 
FRIDAY 1/18:  Picture Retake Day!  
Upcoming Dates:
 
1/21 NO SCHOOL in observance of Dr. Marting Luther King’s birthday.
 
1/24 GENERAL PTO MEETING!  A very important meeting is approaching!  Save the date for our next General PTO Meeting which parents are required to attend.  The focus of the meeting will be on student safety and wellness, along with an important business meeting.  More details will be coming soon!
 
TIME:  6:30 – 9 pm.
Location:  We will begin in the MPR! 
 
Weekly Flyers: