GLES Annual Event Info & Contacts
This page provides an overview of many of the events that take place at Green Lake Elementary School (GLES) each year. Please note that all details are subject to change and some events may not happen each year. This list is organized by the school calendar (Sept-June), each event includes the audience (who), a description, general time period and contact information. Specific dates are included when available. A comprehensive list of dates and additional events can be found on the calendar page. If you have any questions, please email the PTA Events Coordinator - events@greenlakedragons.org
Monthly Events
Grade-Level Family Potlucks *New this year for 2019-20*
*Kindergarten: October
*1st Grade: November
*2nd Grade: November
*3rd Grade: February
*4th Grade: April/May
*5th Grade: March
A great way to connect with other families and have fun! These potlucks will be organized by the room parents for your child’s grade level. Potlucks will start with the younger grades and be spread out across the year.
Who: All students in the grade level and their families
Time: Beginning in Sept., at least once per year per grade level on a weekday evening
Sample Schedule (subject to change): Kinder-Sept, 1st-Oct, 2nd-Nov, 3rd-Feb, 4th-Feb, 5th-March
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: The room parent for your child’s class
*Kindergarten: October
*1st Grade: November
*2nd Grade: November
*3rd Grade: February
*4th Grade: April/May
*5th Grade: March
A great way to connect with other families and have fun! These potlucks will be organized by the room parents for your child’s grade level. Potlucks will start with the younger grades and be spread out across the year.
Who: All students in the grade level and their families
Time: Beginning in Sept., at least once per year per grade level on a weekday evening
Sample Schedule (subject to change): Kinder-Sept, 1st-Oct, 2nd-Nov, 3rd-Feb, 4th-Feb, 5th-March
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: The room parent for your child’s class
PTA After-School Enrichment Classes (3 sessions per year)
*Winter 2020 registration begins Jan. 6, 2020 @ 12:00pm. Classes begin the week of Jan. 13, 2020.
Various organizations offer fee-based after-school enrichment classes like cooking, coding, comic book writing, yoga, chess, golf, etc. – lots of great options! Classes take place at the school and Green Lake park. Students meet in the cafetorium and are escorted to class by their enrichment teacher. Classes usually last 60-90 minutes after school. GLSA after-school care and Little Explorers can pick kids up from their enrichment classes. Scholarships are available. Registration is on a first come first served basis. Register and view classes at 6crickets.com Please understand that after school enrichment programs are sponsored by the PTA, but individual class providers are responsible for your child. Make sure all contact and medical information is up to date in 6crickets. You are also responsible for picking up your child on time. Many providers have late pickup policies.
Who: All students
Time: Three sessions offered per year - Oct-Dec; Jan-March; and April-June. One or more hours after school, every weekday. Registration for Fall is in early Oct or early Oct., for Winter is in Jan., for Spring is in April.
Location: Classrooms & Green Lake park
Contact: Cory Sebastian - enrichment@greenlakedragons.org
*Winter 2020 registration begins Jan. 6, 2020 @ 12:00pm. Classes begin the week of Jan. 13, 2020.
Various organizations offer fee-based after-school enrichment classes like cooking, coding, comic book writing, yoga, chess, golf, etc. – lots of great options! Classes take place at the school and Green Lake park. Students meet in the cafetorium and are escorted to class by their enrichment teacher. Classes usually last 60-90 minutes after school. GLSA after-school care and Little Explorers can pick kids up from their enrichment classes. Scholarships are available. Registration is on a first come first served basis. Register and view classes at 6crickets.com Please understand that after school enrichment programs are sponsored by the PTA, but individual class providers are responsible for your child. Make sure all contact and medical information is up to date in 6crickets. You are also responsible for picking up your child on time. Many providers have late pickup policies.
Who: All students
Time: Three sessions offered per year - Oct-Dec; Jan-March; and April-June. One or more hours after school, every weekday. Registration for Fall is in early Oct or early Oct., for Winter is in Jan., for Spring is in April.
Location: Classrooms & Green Lake park
Contact: Cory Sebastian - enrichment@greenlakedragons.org
FamilyWorks Supermarket Saturday Food Drive
GLES partners with FamilyWorks Resource Center and Food Banks as part of the PTA’s Social Justice & Equity Committee’s mission to link the school with the local community. Supermarket Saturday food drives run at the QFC on N. 45th and volunteers hand out flyers to shoppers inviting them to shop for FamilyWorks and then collect the resulting donations. School age children and their families are welcome and 16-17 year olds may volunteer unaccompanied with parent/guardian permission.
Who: Kids and their families
Time: One Saturday per month
Location: Wallingford QFC - 1801 N. 45th St.
Contact: Kat Johnson, FamilyWorks Volunteer Coordinator - kathrynj@familyworksseattle.org
GLES partners with FamilyWorks Resource Center and Food Banks as part of the PTA’s Social Justice & Equity Committee’s mission to link the school with the local community. Supermarket Saturday food drives run at the QFC on N. 45th and volunteers hand out flyers to shoppers inviting them to shop for FamilyWorks and then collect the resulting donations. School age children and their families are welcome and 16-17 year olds may volunteer unaccompanied with parent/guardian permission.
Who: Kids and their families
Time: One Saturday per month
Location: Wallingford QFC - 1801 N. 45th St.
Contact: Kat Johnson, FamilyWorks Volunteer Coordinator - kathrynj@familyworksseattle.org
Bi-Monthly Events
PTA General Meeting & Invited Speakers
Get the inside scoop on all the great things happening at GLES and learn about how you can get involved in the way that works best for you and your family. This is also a great opportunity to meet other families and help build the Green Lake community. A few times a year, the PTA brings in speakers on topics relevant to raising kids. Past speakers have included Jason Frelot of Kids & Race, Sharon Chang (How to Talk to Your Kids About Race), and Kai Kunkel of Leading with Love Parenting. All family members are invited to attend PTA meetings. The PTA provides *free* childcare for school age children in the gym and/or library.
Who: All families (free childcare for school-age kids)
Time: Bi-monthly, third Tuesday in September, November, January, March & May
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: PTA Co-Presidents - ptapresident@greenlakedragons.org
Get the inside scoop on all the great things happening at GLES and learn about how you can get involved in the way that works best for you and your family. This is also a great opportunity to meet other families and help build the Green Lake community. A few times a year, the PTA brings in speakers on topics relevant to raising kids. Past speakers have included Jason Frelot of Kids & Race, Sharon Chang (How to Talk to Your Kids About Race), and Kai Kunkel of Leading with Love Parenting. All family members are invited to attend PTA meetings. The PTA provides *free* childcare for school age children in the gym and/or library.
Who: All families (free childcare for school-age kids)
Time: Bi-monthly, third Tuesday in September, November, January, March & May
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: PTA Co-Presidents - ptapresident@greenlakedragons.org
Social Justice & Equity (SJE) Book Club *New this year for 2019-20*
The SJE Committee values "fairness, understanding, and belonging," which shape our efforts to address inequities and structural injustices, to advocate for change, to spark discussion, and to bring groups together and ensure they feel heard. We want this to happen within GLES and across communities. The intention of this book club is to bring one another together, get to know each other better, and to learn from one another.
Who: Parents/adult family members
Time: Bi-monthly, weekday evening
Location: Individual’s home
Contact: Social Justice - socialjustice@greenlakedragons.org and Equity - equity@greenlakedragons.org
The SJE Committee values "fairness, understanding, and belonging," which shape our efforts to address inequities and structural injustices, to advocate for change, to spark discussion, and to bring groups together and ensure they feel heard. We want this to happen within GLES and across communities. The intention of this book club is to bring one another together, get to know each other better, and to learn from one another.
Who: Parents/adult family members
Time: Bi-monthly, weekday evening
Location: Individual’s home
Contact: Social Justice - socialjustice@greenlakedragons.org and Equity - equity@greenlakedragons.org
AUGUST
Social Justice & Equity (SJE) Committee Planning Meeting
The SJE Committee values "fairness, understanding, and belonging," which shape our efforts to address inequities and structural injustices, to advocate for change, to spark discussion, and to bring groups together and ensure they feel heard. We want this to happen within GLES and across communities. Read the Rising Star Academy (formerly Van Asselt Elem.) & Green Lake Partnership Newsletter. The intention of this planning meeting is to bring one another together, get to know each other better and better, and to ultimately drill down what are realistic goals for the next school year (and beyond). Amongst our hopes is to determine how we can cross-utilize the resources and knowledge already present to best achieve our goals.
Who: Parents/adult family members
Time: August, weekend evening
Location: Committee member’s home
Contact: Social Justice - socialjustice@greenlakedragons.org and Equity - equity@greenlakedragons.org
The SJE Committee values "fairness, understanding, and belonging," which shape our efforts to address inequities and structural injustices, to advocate for change, to spark discussion, and to bring groups together and ensure they feel heard. We want this to happen within GLES and across communities. Read the Rising Star Academy (formerly Van Asselt Elem.) & Green Lake Partnership Newsletter. The intention of this planning meeting is to bring one another together, get to know each other better and better, and to ultimately drill down what are realistic goals for the next school year (and beyond). Amongst our hopes is to determine how we can cross-utilize the resources and knowledge already present to best achieve our goals.
Who: Parents/adult family members
Time: August, weekend evening
Location: Committee member’s home
Contact: Social Justice - socialjustice@greenlakedragons.org and Equity - equity@greenlakedragons.org
Kindergarten Jumpstart Week
In-coming Kindergarteners have the opportunity to meet their teachers, explore their classroom and tour the school before the big kids show up in September. Parents may have the opportunity to meet the principal with a welcome session on the first day and socialize with other families during lunch on the last day. On the last day of the week, families will also be able to sign up for Family Connection conferences that take place the first week of September. Jumpstart registration begins in the spring. In-coming Kindergarten families will receive a packet with the Jumpstart registration form in the mail. An email with details is sent out in the summer.
Who: New kinder students
Time: One week in August, 9:00am-12:00pm daily
Location: Kindergarten classroom
Contact: Kindergarten teachers
In-coming Kindergarteners have the opportunity to meet their teachers, explore their classroom and tour the school before the big kids show up in September. Parents may have the opportunity to meet the principal with a welcome session on the first day and socialize with other families during lunch on the last day. On the last day of the week, families will also be able to sign up for Family Connection conferences that take place the first week of September. Jumpstart registration begins in the spring. In-coming Kindergarten families will receive a packet with the Jumpstart registration form in the mail. An email with details is sent out in the summer.
Who: New kinder students
Time: One week in August, 9:00am-12:00pm daily
Location: Kindergarten classroom
Contact: Kindergarten teachers
Taking Care of Business Day (TCOB) & PTA Fair
All families (K-5th) have the opportunity to complete district required paperwork (i.e. emergency info, bus transportation, etc.) in exchange for receiving teacher assignments early. Teacher assignments are usually emailed to all families, regardless of whether they attended TCOB, in early September before school starts. Families are also encouraged to drop off school supplies in their classrooms. Families can also join the PTA and learn about ways to get involved in this great community. Volunteer applications can also be completed and parents can sign up to be room parents.
Who: All families
Time: One afternoon in late August, usually 3:00-6:00pm.
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: Jennifer Allen, Admin. Secretary, jjallen@seattleschools.org
All families (K-5th) have the opportunity to complete district required paperwork (i.e. emergency info, bus transportation, etc.) in exchange for receiving teacher assignments early. Teacher assignments are usually emailed to all families, regardless of whether they attended TCOB, in early September before school starts. Families are also encouraged to drop off school supplies in their classrooms. Families can also join the PTA and learn about ways to get involved in this great community. Volunteer applications can also be completed and parents can sign up to be room parents.
Who: All families
Time: One afternoon in late August, usually 3:00-6:00pm.
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: Jennifer Allen, Admin. Secretary, jjallen@seattleschools.org
SEPTEMBER
Kindergarten Family Connection Conferences
Typically these take place the first 3 days of school after Labor Day weekend (Wed-Fri) when Kindergarteners are not in school. Conference sign-up happens the last day of Jump Start week or by email with your child’s teacher. This is a chance for families to meet their Kindergarteners teacher, visit the classroom, and learn about WA Kids
Who: Kindergarten families
Time: First week in September
Location: Kindergarten classroom
Contact: Kindergarten teachers
Typically these take place the first 3 days of school after Labor Day weekend (Wed-Fri) when Kindergarteners are not in school. Conference sign-up happens the last day of Jump Start week or by email with your child’s teacher. This is a chance for families to meet their Kindergarteners teacher, visit the classroom, and learn about WA Kids
Who: Kindergarten families
Time: First week in September
Location: Kindergarten classroom
Contact: Kindergarten teachers
Tears & Cheers Social for In-Coming Kindergarten & New Families
The first day of school can be an emotional time for both kids and parents alike. This is a great opportunity to start those family connections that make Green Lake school so great. The principal will welcome new families followed by time for families to meet each other and learn about all the amazing ways to get involved with the many activities sponsored by the PTA.
Who: In-coming kinder families and families new to GLES
Time: 8:00am on the first day of school for Kindergarten in Sept., usually the first Monday after Labor Day.
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: New Family Liaison - newfamilies@greenlakedragons.org
The first day of school can be an emotional time for both kids and parents alike. This is a great opportunity to start those family connections that make Green Lake school so great. The principal will welcome new families followed by time for families to meet each other and learn about all the amazing ways to get involved with the many activities sponsored by the PTA.
Who: In-coming kinder families and families new to GLES
Time: 8:00am on the first day of school for Kindergarten in Sept., usually the first Monday after Labor Day.
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: New Family Liaison - newfamilies@greenlakedragons.org
Kindergarten Curriculum Night
This is an important night to learn about what your Kinder student will be studying this year, hear about co-teaching in Kindergarten, sign up for volunteering, and get to know your student’s teachers better and the expectations they have for your student during the year.
Who: Kinder families
Time: Sept. weekday evening
Location: Kindergarten classroom
Contact: Kindergarten teachers
This is an important night to learn about what your Kinder student will be studying this year, hear about co-teaching in Kindergarten, sign up for volunteering, and get to know your student’s teachers better and the expectations they have for your student during the year.
Who: Kinder families
Time: Sept. weekday evening
Location: Kindergarten classroom
Contact: Kindergarten teachers
Welcome (Back) to School Family Potluck (all grades K-5th)
Welcome to school to our new families & welcome back to returning families! Time to meet our new families and reconnect with old friends you haven’t seen for 2 whole months! A casual get-together to strengthen our school community. Families are encouraged to bring any dish they’d like to share (kid friendly food encouraged).
Who: all students and their families
Time: A Friday evening in Sept., usually 5:30-7:30pm
Location: Cafetorium & Olallie Garden
Contact: Family Fun Nights Coordinator The PTA is looking for a family fun night coordinator Contact the PTA co-presidents - ptapresident@greenlakedragons.org
Welcome to school to our new families & welcome back to returning families! Time to meet our new families and reconnect with old friends you haven’t seen for 2 whole months! A casual get-together to strengthen our school community. Families are encouraged to bring any dish they’d like to share (kid friendly food encouraged).
Who: all students and their families
Time: A Friday evening in Sept., usually 5:30-7:30pm
Location: Cafetorium & Olallie Garden
Contact: Family Fun Nights Coordinator The PTA is looking for a family fun night coordinator Contact the PTA co-presidents - ptapresident@greenlakedragons.org
Bicycle Safety Rodeo
Bring your bicycle and your helmet to this free event. Rain or Shine. The PTA Active Transportation Group is putting on the Rodeo, which is a fun, interactive, and non-competitive skills course designed for kids to improve their bike handling and traffic safety skills. Held within the controlled and safe environment of our playground, the Bike Rodeo is a great introduction to bicycle handling for kids and families alike. The course may include the following stations: OKAY Corral, Driveway Rideout, Crazy Crossroads, Scanning, Rock Dodge, and the ever so competitive “Slow Race.” We are also looking for volunteers to help out tending to the different stations.
Who: all students and their families
Time: Sept. weekend afternoon
Location: Playground
Contact: Douglas Dohan - douglasdohan@hotmail.com
Bring your bicycle and your helmet to this free event. Rain or Shine. The PTA Active Transportation Group is putting on the Rodeo, which is a fun, interactive, and non-competitive skills course designed for kids to improve their bike handling and traffic safety skills. Held within the controlled and safe environment of our playground, the Bike Rodeo is a great introduction to bicycle handling for kids and families alike. The course may include the following stations: OKAY Corral, Driveway Rideout, Crazy Crossroads, Scanning, Rock Dodge, and the ever so competitive “Slow Race.” We are also looking for volunteers to help out tending to the different stations.
Who: all students and their families
Time: Sept. weekend afternoon
Location: Playground
Contact: Douglas Dohan - douglasdohan@hotmail.com
Fall Gathering and Potluck for Families of Color
This potluck provides an opportunity for families of color to build community and engage in meaningful conversation. This event is a part of the PTA's Social Justice & Equity (SJE) Committee which values "fairness, understanding, and belonging," that shape our efforts to address inequities and structural injustices, to advocate for change, to spark discussion, and to bring groups together and ensure they feel heard.
Who: A family in which any member identifies as a person of color,* including multiracial and transracial adoptive families. A person of color* is a term that describes people whose heritage is from underrepresented racial & ethnic communities in the U.S. and covers all and any peoples who identify as Native American, African/Black, Latinx/Hispanic, Asian, South Asian, Middle Eastern, Pacific Islander, multiracial, or mixed race.
Time: Friday evening in the fall
Location: Cafetorium or at a partner school
Contact: Social Justice - socialjustice@greenlakedragons.org and Equity - equity@greenlakedragons.org
This potluck provides an opportunity for families of color to build community and engage in meaningful conversation. This event is a part of the PTA's Social Justice & Equity (SJE) Committee which values "fairness, understanding, and belonging," that shape our efforts to address inequities and structural injustices, to advocate for change, to spark discussion, and to bring groups together and ensure they feel heard.
Who: A family in which any member identifies as a person of color,* including multiracial and transracial adoptive families. A person of color* is a term that describes people whose heritage is from underrepresented racial & ethnic communities in the U.S. and covers all and any peoples who identify as Native American, African/Black, Latinx/Hispanic, Asian, South Asian, Middle Eastern, Pacific Islander, multiracial, or mixed race.
Time: Friday evening in the fall
Location: Cafetorium or at a partner school
Contact: Social Justice - socialjustice@greenlakedragons.org and Equity - equity@greenlakedragons.org
Kindergarten Fall Potluck
This event is a great way for Kinder families to get to know each other and get outdoors. Details will be sent to families a few weeks before the event. Families are encouraged to bring any dish they’d like to share (kid friendly food encouraged).
Who: Kinder students and their families
Time: A Saturday afternoon in the fall
Location: usually at Carkeek Park
Contact: PTA Event Coordinator - events@greenlakedragons.org
This event is a great way for Kinder families to get to know each other and get outdoors. Details will be sent to families a few weeks before the event. Families are encouraged to bring any dish they’d like to share (kid friendly food encouraged).
Who: Kinder students and their families
Time: A Saturday afternoon in the fall
Location: usually at Carkeek Park
Contact: PTA Event Coordinator - events@greenlakedragons.org
OCTOBER
1st-5th Grade Curriculum Night
Learn about curriculum, expectations, upcoming events and plans for this school year from your student's teacher. Two sessions are scheduled for the convenience of families with more than one child. PTA provides childcare for school age children.
Who: Families with 1st-5th grade students
Time: Weekday evening in Sept or Oct. Two sessions offered to accommodate siblings, usually in 30 minute increments.
Location: Introduction by the Principal in the Cafetorium
Contact: Classroom teachers
Learn about curriculum, expectations, upcoming events and plans for this school year from your student's teacher. Two sessions are scheduled for the convenience of families with more than one child. PTA provides childcare for school age children.
Who: Families with 1st-5th grade students
Time: Weekday evening in Sept or Oct. Two sessions offered to accommodate siblings, usually in 30 minute increments.
Location: Introduction by the Principal in the Cafetorium
Contact: Classroom teachers
National Walk to School Day
A great way to get outside and get some exercise. The PTA’s Active Transportation Committee will have a table set up with fun swag for walkers.
Who: all students
Time: Weekday morning
Location: Playground
Contact: Douglas Dohan - douglasdohan@hotmail.com
A great way to get outside and get some exercise. The PTA’s Active Transportation Committee will have a table set up with fun swag for walkers.
Who: all students
Time: Weekday morning
Location: Playground
Contact: Douglas Dohan - douglasdohan@hotmail.com
Room Parent Orientation *New Event 2019-20*
This is a new event to help orient room parents to their important role. There will be an emphasis this year on community building through grade level events outside of school like potlucks, meet-ups, etc. This is also a time for room parents to connect with each other, share ideas and resources, and have a good time!
Who: Room parents (sign up at Taking Care of Business or by emailing the classroom teacher and the room parent coordinator)
Time: Early October
Location: Neighborhood restaurant
Contact: Room Parent Coordinator - roomparents@greenlakedragons.org
This is a new event to help orient room parents to their important role. There will be an emphasis this year on community building through grade level events outside of school like potlucks, meet-ups, etc. This is also a time for room parents to connect with each other, share ideas and resources, and have a good time!
Who: Room parents (sign up at Taking Care of Business or by emailing the classroom teacher and the room parent coordinator)
Time: Early October
Location: Neighborhood restaurant
Contact: Room Parent Coordinator - roomparents@greenlakedragons.org
Walk and Roll-A-Thon Student Fundraiser
A major student driven fundraiser and one of the most fun all-school events of the year. Students walk, jog or roll (students who use wheelchairs) a 1/4 mile course on the playground for an hour, collecting pledges from friends, neighbors, grandparents, etc. for the number of laps completed. Pledge forms are sent home in advance. The class that raises the most money wins the coveted BIG SHOE! Although having spectators is wonderful, what we really need are volunteers. If you plan on coming to cheer for the kids, please consider volunteering. A schedule for the day and FAQ can be found on the Walk’n Roll-A-Thon web page. *Volunteer paperwork must be completed for family members to participate*
Who: all students, families can volunteer
Time: Early October on a Friday, during the school day.
Location: Playground (rain or shine)
Contact: Kai Kunkel and Angie Serwald - development@greenlakedragons.org
A major student driven fundraiser and one of the most fun all-school events of the year. Students walk, jog or roll (students who use wheelchairs) a 1/4 mile course on the playground for an hour, collecting pledges from friends, neighbors, grandparents, etc. for the number of laps completed. Pledge forms are sent home in advance. The class that raises the most money wins the coveted BIG SHOE! Although having spectators is wonderful, what we really need are volunteers. If you plan on coming to cheer for the kids, please consider volunteering. A schedule for the day and FAQ can be found on the Walk’n Roll-A-Thon web page. *Volunteer paperwork must be completed for family members to participate*
Who: all students, families can volunteer
Time: Early October on a Friday, during the school day.
Location: Playground (rain or shine)
Contact: Kai Kunkel and Angie Serwald - development@greenlakedragons.org
Kindergarten Parents Night Out
A fun evening for Kinder parents to get to know each other in a casual, fun setting. Hosted by the PTA, this evening includes appetizers and great conversation. Drinks are available for purchase at the event location.
Who: Kinder parents/adult family members (adults only)
Time: Weekday evening in October
Location: Neighborhood restaurant
Contact: New Family Liaison - newfamilies@greenlakedragons.org
A fun evening for Kinder parents to get to know each other in a casual, fun setting. Hosted by the PTA, this evening includes appetizers and great conversation. Drinks are available for purchase at the event location.
Who: Kinder parents/adult family members (adults only)
Time: Weekday evening in October
Location: Neighborhood restaurant
Contact: New Family Liaison - newfamilies@greenlakedragons.org
NOVEMBER
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Parent-teacher conferences offer an opportunity for you and your child’s teacher to communicate about academic progress, build a supportive partnership and for you to provide the teacher with important information about your child. Seattle Public Schools provides a few tips to help families prepare for the face-to-face meeting and conversation
Who: all parents
Time: Mid-November, before Thanksgiving break
Location: Classrooms
Contact: Classroom teachers
Parent-teacher conferences offer an opportunity for you and your child’s teacher to communicate about academic progress, build a supportive partnership and for you to provide the teacher with important information about your child. Seattle Public Schools provides a few tips to help families prepare for the face-to-face meeting and conversation
Who: all parents
Time: Mid-November, before Thanksgiving break
Location: Classrooms
Contact: Classroom teachers
Tree Sale School Fundraiser
Begins Friday after Thanksgiving and ends when trees run out! (usually mid-December)
GLES has been doing this successful, relationship-building fundraiser since 1985! It’s a great opportunity for parents and kids to get together and sell trees to the community. A portion of the playground is used to store and sell trees. Two or more families sign up for 2-3 hour shifts during a weekday evening or on the weekend. Volunteers share the tasks of taking payments (check, cash, credit card), answering questions about trees (info sheet provided), restocking supplies (hot chocolate, water, etc), set up/clean up, and helping customers tie trees onto their cars. There is also a designated “tree person” who is available to help families who have signed up to volunteer. This person restocks the trees, uses the saw to cut trees, and oversees the set up/clean up. “Tree people” are always needed - email the Volunteer Coordinator for more information if you want to help out!
Who: all family members can volunteer
Time: Day after Thanksgiving until mid-December
Location: Playground
Contacts: PTA Volunteer Coordinator - volunteers@greenlakedragons.org or Jon Larson - treesale@greenlakedragons.org
Begins Friday after Thanksgiving and ends when trees run out! (usually mid-December)
GLES has been doing this successful, relationship-building fundraiser since 1985! It’s a great opportunity for parents and kids to get together and sell trees to the community. A portion of the playground is used to store and sell trees. Two or more families sign up for 2-3 hour shifts during a weekday evening or on the weekend. Volunteers share the tasks of taking payments (check, cash, credit card), answering questions about trees (info sheet provided), restocking supplies (hot chocolate, water, etc), set up/clean up, and helping customers tie trees onto their cars. There is also a designated “tree person” who is available to help families who have signed up to volunteer. This person restocks the trees, uses the saw to cut trees, and oversees the set up/clean up. “Tree people” are always needed - email the Volunteer Coordinator for more information if you want to help out!
Who: all family members can volunteer
Time: Day after Thanksgiving until mid-December
Location: Playground
Contacts: PTA Volunteer Coordinator - volunteers@greenlakedragons.org or Jon Larson - treesale@greenlakedragons.org
DECEMBER
PTA Gift Card Drive for Winter Holiday Bags
Donations of grocery gift cards are always welcome for families in need in our school community. A few weeks before winter break, there is a drive to support GLES families that may need financial support during the Winter holidays. Donations of grocery gift cards from Safeway, QFC, Fred Meyer, and Target may be turned into the school office. Please note the dollar amount on each card.
Who: all families are invited to participate
Time: Mid-December, before Winter break
Location: Drop off in the office
Contact: Aaron Kaufman - aaron_kaufman@hotmail.com and Sarah Heath - sarah1896@hotmail.com
Donations of grocery gift cards are always welcome for families in need in our school community. A few weeks before winter break, there is a drive to support GLES families that may need financial support during the Winter holidays. Donations of grocery gift cards from Safeway, QFC, Fred Meyer, and Target may be turned into the school office. Please note the dollar amount on each card.
Who: all families are invited to participate
Time: Mid-December, before Winter break
Location: Drop off in the office
Contact: Aaron Kaufman - aaron_kaufman@hotmail.com and Sarah Heath - sarah1896@hotmail.com
JANUARY
MLK Jr. Day Student March
In past years, students have made signs on issues of social justice and participated in a march around the neighborhood. This event is usually organized by the classroom teachers. *Volunteer paperwork must be completed for family members to participate*
Who: students, parents can volunteer
Time: January weekday morning
Location: School neighborhood
Contact: Classroom teachers
In past years, students have made signs on issues of social justice and participated in a march around the neighborhood. This event is usually organized by the classroom teachers. *Volunteer paperwork must be completed for family members to participate*
Who: students, parents can volunteer
Time: January weekday morning
Location: School neighborhood
Contact: Classroom teachers
School Play - 5th Grade
Each year, 5th grade students have an opportunity to show off their acting and singing talents in the school play. Auditions are usually in September or October and students participate in an after-school class specific to the play.
Who: 5th grade students perform, all families are invited to attend the performances
Time: Weekend afternoon and evenings
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: Molly Goldman - molly.goldman@gmail.com
Each year, 5th grade students have an opportunity to show off their acting and singing talents in the school play. Auditions are usually in September or October and students participate in an after-school class specific to the play.
Who: 5th grade students perform, all families are invited to attend the performances
Time: Weekend afternoon and evenings
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: Molly Goldman - molly.goldman@gmail.com
Author Visit(s)
April 22, 2020: Roger Fernandes
A local or visiting children’s book author presents their work and their writing methods to students. There are usually two or more author visits per year. One usually takes place the same time as Young Author’s Day in April. Families can fill out book order forms that are sent home in take-home folders in advance. The author will autograph books for students who return their order forms on or before the day of the author visit. Past author visits have included Suzanne Kaufman (All Are Welcome), Jessixa & Aaron Bagley (Vincent Comes Home), Kelly Milner-Halls (Animals: Can You Tell the Facts from Fibs?), Ben Clanton (Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea), Kevin Henkes (Chrysanthemum), Martha Brockenbrough (Shark Week), and Kirby Larson (Dash).
Who: all students
Time: Weekday during school hours
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: Librarian - Andrea Bernasconi, PTA coordinators - Ansley Hack - ansleydickens@gmail.com and Anjali da Victoria Lobo - anjalisimone@gmail.com
April 22, 2020: Roger Fernandes
A local or visiting children’s book author presents their work and their writing methods to students. There are usually two or more author visits per year. One usually takes place the same time as Young Author’s Day in April. Families can fill out book order forms that are sent home in take-home folders in advance. The author will autograph books for students who return their order forms on or before the day of the author visit. Past author visits have included Suzanne Kaufman (All Are Welcome), Jessixa & Aaron Bagley (Vincent Comes Home), Kelly Milner-Halls (Animals: Can You Tell the Facts from Fibs?), Ben Clanton (Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea), Kevin Henkes (Chrysanthemum), Martha Brockenbrough (Shark Week), and Kirby Larson (Dash).
Who: all students
Time: Weekday during school hours
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: Librarian - Andrea Bernasconi, PTA coordinators - Ansley Hack - ansleydickens@gmail.com and Anjali da Victoria Lobo - anjalisimone@gmail.com
New Student/In-Coming Kindergarten School Tours (Day & Evening)
This is a great time to show prospective new families what GLES is all about. Current families are asked to volunteer to help give tours and answer questions (only about your kid’s grade).
Who: New families or families with in-coming kindergartners; current parents are invited to volunteer
Time: Weekday and weekday evening in Jan. and/or Feb.
Location: Greeting in the Cafetorium
Contact: New Family Liaison - newfamilies@greenlakedragons.org
This is a great time to show prospective new families what GLES is all about. Current families are asked to volunteer to help give tours and answer questions (only about your kid’s grade).
Who: New families or families with in-coming kindergartners; current parents are invited to volunteer
Time: Weekday and weekday evening in Jan. and/or Feb.
Location: Greeting in the Cafetorium
Contact: New Family Liaison - newfamilies@greenlakedragons.org
STEM Night Science Fair Kick-Off Assembly
In the past, the Pacific Science Center has presented during assemblies to get students excited about STEM Night Science Fair which usually takes place in March.
Who: all students
Time: Weekday in January
Location: Cafetorium during an assembly
Contact: Dean Stevens - deanystevens@me.com and Kimberly Decker - kimberlybdecker@gmail.com
In the past, the Pacific Science Center has presented during assemblies to get students excited about STEM Night Science Fair which usually takes place in March.
Who: all students
Time: Weekday in January
Location: Cafetorium during an assembly
Contact: Dean Stevens - deanystevens@me.com and Kimberly Decker - kimberlybdecker@gmail.com
Math Night
Come join the GLES community to celebrate math. Learn math games and get online resources. Raffle prizes may be available. Volunteers are needed for this event.
Who: all students and their families
Time: Weekday evening in Jan. or Feb.
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: TBD
Come join the GLES community to celebrate math. Learn math games and get online resources. Raffle prizes may be available. Volunteers are needed for this event.
Who: all students and their families
Time: Weekday evening in Jan. or Feb.
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: TBD
Vocal Music Performance
Students will perform songs that they have been learning over the semester. Due to the size of the school, not all of the students will be performing at the same time, some will perform in the Spring (May or June). Instrumental music is performed by 4th and 5th graders in the Spring.
Who: Students at various grade levels and their families
Time: Weekday evening in January
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: Auna Stewart, Vocal Music teacher - aestewart@seattleschools.org
Students will perform songs that they have been learning over the semester. Due to the size of the school, not all of the students will be performing at the same time, some will perform in the Spring (May or June). Instrumental music is performed by 4th and 5th graders in the Spring.
Who: Students at various grade levels and their families
Time: Weekday evening in January
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: Auna Stewart, Vocal Music teacher - aestewart@seattleschools.org
FEBRUARY
STEM Night Science Fair Poster Prep Night
This event is an opportunity for student groups to work on their STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) Poster Night posters that they’ll be presenting at STEM Night Science Fair in March. Donations for poster-making supplies will be accepted during the event.
Who: all students participating in STEM Night Science Fair in March
Time: Weekday evening in Feb.
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: Dean Stevens - deanystevens@me.com and Kimberly Decker - kimberlybdecker@gmail.com
This event is an opportunity for student groups to work on their STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) Poster Night posters that they’ll be presenting at STEM Night Science Fair in March. Donations for poster-making supplies will be accepted during the event.
Who: all students participating in STEM Night Science Fair in March
Time: Weekday evening in Feb.
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: Dean Stevens - deanystevens@me.com and Kimberly Decker - kimberlybdecker@gmail.com
Black Lives Matter at School Week & Assembly
GLES and the GLES PTA are proud to show our support for SPS system commitments to racial equity and social justice. GLES-teacher designed BLM t-shirts are usually offered to staff and students for free prior to the beginning of the week. Staff, parents and students are encouraged to wear them all week. The Seattle Education Association Center for Race and Equity have developed resources for teachers based on the following themes: Monday: Restorative Justice, Empathy, and Loving Engagement; Tuesday: Diversity and Globalism; Wednesday: Trans-Affirming, Queer Affirming, and Collective Value; Thursday: Intergenerational, Black Families, and Black Villages; Friday: Black Women and Unapologetically Black. These themes are based on the thirteen guiding principles of the Black Lives Matter movement (see link below).
Assembly: BLM week will conclude with our weekly assembly and will include the GLES student council raising the BLM flag on the GLES flag pole. Family members are invited to attend and show your support for GLES commitment to racial justice in schools and communities. About BLM: The Black Lives Matter at School movement is a powerful, non-violent peace movement that systematically examines injustices that exist at the intersections of race, class, and gender. The principles associated with Black Lives Matter highlight a concern about the historic exclusion of people of color that recognizes the value of human life regardless of racial and gender identity. In addition, the thirteen guiding principles of Black Lives Matter define a multifaceted approach to justice that can create the conditions for improving relations between people of different races.
For those looking for resources to understand BLM at school, this FAQ is a great start.
Who: all students and staff
Time: First week of February
Location: school-wide
Contact: Classroom teachers, PTA Social Justice - socialjustice@greenlakedragons.org and PTA Equity - equity@greenlakedragons.org
GLES and the GLES PTA are proud to show our support for SPS system commitments to racial equity and social justice. GLES-teacher designed BLM t-shirts are usually offered to staff and students for free prior to the beginning of the week. Staff, parents and students are encouraged to wear them all week. The Seattle Education Association Center for Race and Equity have developed resources for teachers based on the following themes: Monday: Restorative Justice, Empathy, and Loving Engagement; Tuesday: Diversity and Globalism; Wednesday: Trans-Affirming, Queer Affirming, and Collective Value; Thursday: Intergenerational, Black Families, and Black Villages; Friday: Black Women and Unapologetically Black. These themes are based on the thirteen guiding principles of the Black Lives Matter movement (see link below).
Assembly: BLM week will conclude with our weekly assembly and will include the GLES student council raising the BLM flag on the GLES flag pole. Family members are invited to attend and show your support for GLES commitment to racial justice in schools and communities. About BLM: The Black Lives Matter at School movement is a powerful, non-violent peace movement that systematically examines injustices that exist at the intersections of race, class, and gender. The principles associated with Black Lives Matter highlight a concern about the historic exclusion of people of color that recognizes the value of human life regardless of racial and gender identity. In addition, the thirteen guiding principles of Black Lives Matter define a multifaceted approach to justice that can create the conditions for improving relations between people of different races.
For those looking for resources to understand BLM at school, this FAQ is a great start.
Who: all students and staff
Time: First week of February
Location: school-wide
Contact: Classroom teachers, PTA Social Justice - socialjustice@greenlakedragons.org and PTA Equity - equity@greenlakedragons.org
Global Reading Challenge
In-School Challenges: late January - early February
City Final: late March @ Central Library
This citywide program is a collaborative effort between The Seattle Public Library (SPL) and the Seattle Public Schools. The purpose of the challenge is to encourage reading as a fun and recreational activity that allows 4th and 5th grade students of all reading abilities to engage in the sport of reading. Students form teams of 7 and read 10 books, then take part in a trivia competition, answering questions about the books, to determine the winner for the city of Seattle. Details can be found on the SPL website
Who: 4th & 5th grade students
Time: January-March
Location: 4th-5th graders participate in school
Contact: Andrea Bernasconi, Librarian
In-School Challenges: late January - early February
City Final: late March @ Central Library
This citywide program is a collaborative effort between The Seattle Public Library (SPL) and the Seattle Public Schools. The purpose of the challenge is to encourage reading as a fun and recreational activity that allows 4th and 5th grade students of all reading abilities to engage in the sport of reading. Students form teams of 7 and read 10 books, then take part in a trivia competition, answering questions about the books, to determine the winner for the city of Seattle. Details can be found on the SPL website
Who: 4th & 5th grade students
Time: January-March
Location: 4th-5th graders participate in school
Contact: Andrea Bernasconi, Librarian
Jump Rope Night
A fun night playing games and getting active with the GLES community!
Who: all students and families
Time: Weekday evening in Feb.
Location: Gymnasium
Contact: Vondell Johnson, PE Teacher, vljohnson@seattleschools.org
A fun night playing games and getting active with the GLES community!
Who: all students and families
Time: Weekday evening in Feb.
Location: Gymnasium
Contact: Vondell Johnson, PE Teacher, vljohnson@seattleschools.org
MARCH
STEM Night Science Fair
Student groups present posters on their investigations of a Science/Tech/Engineering/Math (STEM) question of interest to them. Raffle prizes are awarded to poster presenters. Investigations are done at home. There is a poster-making night in the cafeteria a few weeks before STEM Night Science Fair for students to work together. Parent volunteers are needed for set-up and clean up.
Who: all students can participate, even kinders!
Time: Weekday evening
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: Dean Stevens - deanystevens@me.com and Kimberly Decker - kimberlybdecker@gmail.com
Student groups present posters on their investigations of a Science/Tech/Engineering/Math (STEM) question of interest to them. Raffle prizes are awarded to poster presenters. Investigations are done at home. There is a poster-making night in the cafeteria a few weeks before STEM Night Science Fair for students to work together. Parent volunteers are needed for set-up and clean up.
Who: all students can participate, even kinders!
Time: Weekday evening
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: Dean Stevens - deanystevens@me.com and Kimberly Decker - kimberlybdecker@gmail.com
Annual School Auction Fundraiser
Online Saturday March 14 - 21, 2020
Get ready for one of the most fun nights of the year! Our annual auction is our school’s largest fundraiser and everyone is encouraged to attend (this is an adult only event). Tickets to the auction can be purchased in advance and include dinner, beer and wine, and loads of amazing items to bid on! All items are donated by local businesses and GLES families, and include items such as vacation rentals, restaurant certificates, unique Seattle excursions, and everything in between. At this event, parents can also buy tickets for all the unique teacher experiences (e.g. kid karaoke party, puppy party, stuffy sleepover, etc.), parent parties (e.g. Green Lake Rocks concert, Oktoberfest beer tasting party, ‘80’s karaoke party, etc.), and the highly coveted raffle prizes. The evening concludes with a live auction that includes all the priceless student classroom art projects. Proceeds from all “purchases” go directly to the school. More Auction Info
Who: parents and family members (this is an adult-only event)
When: Saturday in late March
Time: 5:00-11:00pm
Location: Bell Harbor Conference Center
Contact: Sara Woods and Emily Jensen - auction@greenlakedragons.org
Online Saturday March 14 - 21, 2020
Get ready for one of the most fun nights of the year! Our annual auction is our school’s largest fundraiser and everyone is encouraged to attend (this is an adult only event). Tickets to the auction can be purchased in advance and include dinner, beer and wine, and loads of amazing items to bid on! All items are donated by local businesses and GLES families, and include items such as vacation rentals, restaurant certificates, unique Seattle excursions, and everything in between. At this event, parents can also buy tickets for all the unique teacher experiences (e.g. kid karaoke party, puppy party, stuffy sleepover, etc.), parent parties (e.g. Green Lake Rocks concert, Oktoberfest beer tasting party, ‘80’s karaoke party, etc.), and the highly coveted raffle prizes. The evening concludes with a live auction that includes all the priceless student classroom art projects. Proceeds from all “purchases” go directly to the school. More Auction Info
Who: parents and family members (this is an adult-only event)
When: Saturday in late March
Time: 5:00-11:00pm
Location: Bell Harbor Conference Center
Contact: Sara Woods and Emily Jensen - auction@greenlakedragons.org
School Spirit Week
This is a fun week for kids to dress-up and show their school spirit school-wide. In the past, kids have had favorite book character day, sports day, GLES spirit wear day, crazy hair day, super hero/heroine day, etc.
Who: all students who want to participate
Time: Week-long during the school day
Location: School-wide
Contact: Classroom teachers
This is a fun week for kids to dress-up and show their school spirit school-wide. In the past, kids have had favorite book character day, sports day, GLES spirit wear day, crazy hair day, super hero/heroine day, etc.
Who: all students who want to participate
Time: Week-long during the school day
Location: School-wide
Contact: Classroom teachers
Literacy Night
Come join the GLES community to celebrate literacy. Last year’s theme was "Camp Reads-A-Lot?" There were games to play, crafts to make, and reading by the "campfire". Other activities included a raffle and a visit to the GLES library for parents to get their adult library card and check materials out for at-home use. Students all also get a free book! Books are donated by GLES families. Volunteers are needed for this event.
Who: all students and their families
Time: Weekday evening
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: The PTA is looking for an organizer. Contact the PTA co-presidents - ptapresident@greenlakedragons.org
Come join the GLES community to celebrate literacy. Last year’s theme was "Camp Reads-A-Lot?" There were games to play, crafts to make, and reading by the "campfire". Other activities included a raffle and a visit to the GLES library for parents to get their adult library card and check materials out for at-home use. Students all also get a free book! Books are donated by GLES families. Volunteers are needed for this event.
Who: all students and their families
Time: Weekday evening
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: The PTA is looking for an organizer. Contact the PTA co-presidents - ptapresident@greenlakedragons.org
APRIL
Young Author’s Day & Author Visit
April 22, 2020 with Roger Fernandes
The day usually begins with an author visit (see January “Author Visit” for a description). Then, students from all grades are placed in about 65 small groups to share their own story, essay or poem. Teachers, staff, parents, and family volunteers sit with a group of around 7 students from grades K-5 and listen as each student reads a piece of their own writing. There is an orientation for volunteers when they arrive, usually in the library. A handout with instructions and discussion questions is provided to volunteers. It's a fantastic opportunity to support the creativity of our young writers in a meaningful way! Parents have the option of being in a group with their own child. *Volunteer paperwork must be completed for family members to participate*
Who: all students participate, parent & family volunteers needed
Time: Weekday during school hours in April
Location: School-wide
Contact: Kai Kunkel - kaikunkel@gmail.com and Ansley Hack - ansleydickens@gmail.com
April 22, 2020 with Roger Fernandes
The day usually begins with an author visit (see January “Author Visit” for a description). Then, students from all grades are placed in about 65 small groups to share their own story, essay or poem. Teachers, staff, parents, and family volunteers sit with a group of around 7 students from grades K-5 and listen as each student reads a piece of their own writing. There is an orientation for volunteers when they arrive, usually in the library. A handout with instructions and discussion questions is provided to volunteers. It's a fantastic opportunity to support the creativity of our young writers in a meaningful way! Parents have the option of being in a group with their own child. *Volunteer paperwork must be completed for family members to participate*
Who: all students participate, parent & family volunteers needed
Time: Weekday during school hours in April
Location: School-wide
Contact: Kai Kunkel - kaikunkel@gmail.com and Ansley Hack - ansleydickens@gmail.com
Earth Day Student March
In past years, students have made signs and participated in a march around the neighborhood. This event is usually organized by the classroom teachers. *Volunteer paperwork must be completed for family members to participate*
Who: all students, parents can volunteer
Time: Weekday morning, around April 22 (Earth Day)
Location: School neighborhood
Contact: Classroom teachers
In past years, students have made signs and participated in a march around the neighborhood. This event is usually organized by the classroom teachers. *Volunteer paperwork must be completed for family members to participate*
Who: all students, parents can volunteer
Time: Weekday morning, around April 22 (Earth Day)
Location: School neighborhood
Contact: Classroom teachers
Spring Gathering and Potluck for Families of Color
This potluck provides an opportunity for families of color to continue to build community and engage in meaningful conversation. This event is a part of the PTA's Social Justice & Equity (SJE) Committee which values "fairness, understanding, and belonging," that shape our efforts to address inequities and structural injustices, to advocate for change, to spark discussion, and to bring groups together and ensure they feel heard.
Who: A family in which any member identifies as a person of color,* including multiracial and transracial adoptive families. A person of color* is a term that describes people whose heritage is from underrepresented racial & ethnic communities in the U.S. and covers all and any peoples who identify as Native American, African/Black, Latinx/Hispanic, Asian, South Asian, Middle Eastern, Pacific Islander, multiracial, or mixed race.
Time: Friday evening in the Spring
Location: Cafetorium or at a partner school
Contact: Social Justice - socialjustice@greenlakedragons.org and Equity - equity@greenlakedragons.org
This potluck provides an opportunity for families of color to continue to build community and engage in meaningful conversation. This event is a part of the PTA's Social Justice & Equity (SJE) Committee which values "fairness, understanding, and belonging," that shape our efforts to address inequities and structural injustices, to advocate for change, to spark discussion, and to bring groups together and ensure they feel heard.
Who: A family in which any member identifies as a person of color,* including multiracial and transracial adoptive families. A person of color* is a term that describes people whose heritage is from underrepresented racial & ethnic communities in the U.S. and covers all and any peoples who identify as Native American, African/Black, Latinx/Hispanic, Asian, South Asian, Middle Eastern, Pacific Islander, multiracial, or mixed race.
Time: Friday evening in the Spring
Location: Cafetorium or at a partner school
Contact: Social Justice - socialjustice@greenlakedragons.org and Equity - equity@greenlakedragons.org
Smarter Balanced Assessments
Washington State requires all districts to administer the Smarter Balanced assessments each spring. They measure how well students are meeting College and Career Readiness Standards, help teachers and districts identify which students need more support, cover Math and English Language Arts (ELA), take about 2.5-4 hours per subject, are given to students in grades 3 to 8 and 10, and are required for federal and state accountability. Additional information can be found on the Seattle School District’s website.
Who: 3rd, 4th & 5th graders
Time: Usually begins in April or May, administered during the school day
Location: 3rd, 4th, 5th graders - library and/or classrooms
Contact: Classroom teachers
Washington State requires all districts to administer the Smarter Balanced assessments each spring. They measure how well students are meeting College and Career Readiness Standards, help teachers and districts identify which students need more support, cover Math and English Language Arts (ELA), take about 2.5-4 hours per subject, are given to students in grades 3 to 8 and 10, and are required for federal and state accountability. Additional information can be found on the Seattle School District’s website.
Who: 3rd, 4th & 5th graders
Time: Usually begins in April or May, administered during the school day
Location: 3rd, 4th, 5th graders - library and/or classrooms
Contact: Classroom teachers
MAY
Bike to School Month
Students learn about bicycle safety at a school assembly and are encouraged to participate in Bike to School Day (see below). Classes participate in the School Bike Challenge going for the Golden Pedal Prize for the school with the largest percentage participation. Each student receives a bike tracking calendar to record every day they biked or scooted (not just to school - all rides count) to participate in the challenge. The class in each grade level with the highest percentage of bike tracking calendars submitted will win a prize. In the past, every student who turned in their bike tracking calendar received a bicycle benefits sticker ($5.00 value) to put on their helmets which is good for discounts throughout Seattle...including 2-for-1 Mighty-O Donuts. In addition, students who turned in their calendar were entered into drawings for prizes from Cascade Bicycle Club. More information on the PTA's Active Transportation Committee.
Who: all students
Time: Month of May
Location: Bike rides throughout the month at home or in the community
Contact: Douglas Dohan - douglasdohan@hotmail.com
Students learn about bicycle safety at a school assembly and are encouraged to participate in Bike to School Day (see below). Classes participate in the School Bike Challenge going for the Golden Pedal Prize for the school with the largest percentage participation. Each student receives a bike tracking calendar to record every day they biked or scooted (not just to school - all rides count) to participate in the challenge. The class in each grade level with the highest percentage of bike tracking calendars submitted will win a prize. In the past, every student who turned in their bike tracking calendar received a bicycle benefits sticker ($5.00 value) to put on their helmets which is good for discounts throughout Seattle...including 2-for-1 Mighty-O Donuts. In addition, students who turned in their calendar were entered into drawings for prizes from Cascade Bicycle Club. More information on the PTA's Active Transportation Committee.
Who: all students
Time: Month of May
Location: Bike rides throughout the month at home or in the community
Contact: Douglas Dohan - douglasdohan@hotmail.com
National Teacher Appreciation Week
May 4-8, 2020
The first full week of May, teachers are celebrated during Teacher Appreciation Week. We are so thankful for the many educators working to help all of our students. Take some time to thank a teacher in your life! In the past, some room parents have solicited donations from families and purchased gifts for the teachers from the whole class. Gift cards are a great gift! Use the hashtag #teacherappreciationweek to share your thanks with the Seattle Public Schools community on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Find out about how the PTA recognizes Teacher Appreciation Week at GLES.
Who: all students and their families
Time: First full week in May
Location: Classrooms and teacher break room
Contact: Room Parents, Room Parent Coordinator - roomparents@greenlakedragons.org and Ansley Hack - ansleydickens@gmail.com
May 4-8, 2020
The first full week of May, teachers are celebrated during Teacher Appreciation Week. We are so thankful for the many educators working to help all of our students. Take some time to thank a teacher in your life! In the past, some room parents have solicited donations from families and purchased gifts for the teachers from the whole class. Gift cards are a great gift! Use the hashtag #teacherappreciationweek to share your thanks with the Seattle Public Schools community on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Find out about how the PTA recognizes Teacher Appreciation Week at GLES.
Who: all students and their families
Time: First full week in May
Location: Classrooms and teacher break room
Contact: Room Parents, Room Parent Coordinator - roomparents@greenlakedragons.org and Ansley Hack - ansleydickens@gmail.com
National Bike to School Day
May 6, 2020
The PTA’s Active Transportation Committee sets up a table in front of the school and hands out swag to students who biked to school that day. More information on the PTA's Active Transportation Committee.
Who: all students
Time: Weekday morning
Location: Outside in front of the school.
Contact: Douglas Dohan - douglasdohan@hotmail.com
May 6, 2020
The PTA’s Active Transportation Committee sets up a table in front of the school and hands out swag to students who biked to school that day. More information on the PTA's Active Transportation Committee.
Who: all students
Time: Weekday morning
Location: Outside in front of the school.
Contact: Douglas Dohan - douglasdohan@hotmail.com
Volunteer Appreciation
It has become a wonderful tradition at Green Lake for staff to show their appreciation for all of our Green Lake Families by hosting an assembly in honor of all that they do for their kids and the Green Lake Staff. Staff bring the goodies and there is a wonderful presentation by the kids (usually a video). Staff also recognize the 5th grade volunteers that have gone above and beyond the call of duty and honor one 5th grade parent and educator with the Golden Acorn Award for their outstanding work with the community and the students.
Who: All families (students will remain in their classrooms)
Time: Friday morning in May or June, 8:00-9:30am
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: Jennifer Allen, Admin Secretary, jjallen@seattleschools.org
It has become a wonderful tradition at Green Lake for staff to show their appreciation for all of our Green Lake Families by hosting an assembly in honor of all that they do for their kids and the Green Lake Staff. Staff bring the goodies and there is a wonderful presentation by the kids (usually a video). Staff also recognize the 5th grade volunteers that have gone above and beyond the call of duty and honor one 5th grade parent and educator with the Golden Acorn Award for their outstanding work with the community and the students.
Who: All families (students will remain in their classrooms)
Time: Friday morning in May or June, 8:00-9:30am
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: Jennifer Allen, Admin Secretary, jjallen@seattleschools.org
3rd & 4th Grade School Play
May 29-30, 2020
3rd & 4th grade students have an opportunity to show off their acting and singing talents in the school play. Auditions are usually in the winter and students participate in an after-school class specific to the play.
Who: Performed by 3rd & 4th graders; all students and families can attend the performances
Time: Weekend afternoon matinee and evening shows in the Spring
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: Molly Goldman - molly.goldman@gmail.com
May 29-30, 2020
3rd & 4th grade students have an opportunity to show off their acting and singing talents in the school play. Auditions are usually in the winter and students participate in an after-school class specific to the play.
Who: Performed by 3rd & 4th graders; all students and families can attend the performances
Time: Weekend afternoon matinee and evening shows in the Spring
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: Molly Goldman - molly.goldman@gmail.com
PTA Happy Hour & Recruitment
Each year brings changes to the PTA board and other positions. Children graduate and move on to middle school and so do their parents. Or parents move on to other roles in the PTA. The PTA is always looking for parents who are interested in taking on active roles and supporting all the great activities that take place at GLES. None of this is possible without parent participation and we need all the help we can get! The happy hour is a fun way to find out about open PTA roles for the following year and get to know other parents. All are welcome!
Who: All parents!
Time: Weekday evening
Location: PTA Board Member's home or neighborhood restaurant
Contact: PTA Co-Presidents - ptapresident@greenlakedragons.org
Each year brings changes to the PTA board and other positions. Children graduate and move on to middle school and so do their parents. Or parents move on to other roles in the PTA. The PTA is always looking for parents who are interested in taking on active roles and supporting all the great activities that take place at GLES. None of this is possible without parent participation and we need all the help we can get! The happy hour is a fun way to find out about open PTA roles for the following year and get to know other parents. All are welcome!
Who: All parents!
Time: Weekday evening
Location: PTA Board Member's home or neighborhood restaurant
Contact: PTA Co-Presidents - ptapresident@greenlakedragons.org
In-Coming Kindergarten Ice Cream Social
An opportunity to visit the school, meet other families with in-coming kindergartners and families of kids heading to 1st grade. Hosted by out-going Kindergarten families.
Who: In-Coming Kindergartners and their families (siblings too!)
Time: Weekday evening
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: New Family Liaison - newfamilies@greenlakedragons.org
An opportunity to visit the school, meet other families with in-coming kindergartners and families of kids heading to 1st grade. Hosted by out-going Kindergarten families.
Who: In-Coming Kindergartners and their families (siblings too!)
Time: Weekday evening
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: New Family Liaison - newfamilies@greenlakedragons.org
Kindergarten Family Breakfast
Usually hosted by Kindergarten dads, uncles and grandpas. Have breakfast with your kiddo to celebrate Mother’s Day and the end of the school year. This is a great time to build our school community with the whole family. The PTA provides the food and the dads, uncles, and grandpas set-up and prepare it.
Who: Kindergartners and their moms, aunts, &/or grandmas (Dads, uncles &/or grandpas host)
Time: May or June, Weekday morning; usually 8:00-9:00am
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: Kindergarten Room Parents
Usually hosted by Kindergarten dads, uncles and grandpas. Have breakfast with your kiddo to celebrate Mother’s Day and the end of the school year. This is a great time to build our school community with the whole family. The PTA provides the food and the dads, uncles, and grandpas set-up and prepare it.
Who: Kindergartners and their moms, aunts, &/or grandmas (Dads, uncles &/or grandpas host)
Time: May or June, Weekday morning; usually 8:00-9:00am
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: Kindergarten Room Parents
Instrumental & Vocal Music Performance
Students will perform songs that they have been learning over the semester. Due to the size of the school, not all of the students will be performing at the same time, some students will perform in January in a vocal music performance. Instrumental music is performed by 4th and 5th graders.
Who: Students at various grade levels and their families
Time: Weekday evening in the Spring (May or June)
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: Auna Stewart, Vocal Music teacher - aestewart@seattleschools.org and Alexander Dugdale, Instrumental Music teacher - agdugdale@seattleschools.org
Students will perform songs that they have been learning over the semester. Due to the size of the school, not all of the students will be performing at the same time, some students will perform in January in a vocal music performance. Instrumental music is performed by 4th and 5th graders.
Who: Students at various grade levels and their families
Time: Weekday evening in the Spring (May or June)
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: Auna Stewart, Vocal Music teacher - aestewart@seattleschools.org and Alexander Dugdale, Instrumental Music teacher - agdugdale@seattleschools.org
JUNE
Rising Star Academy-GLES Annual Partnership Celebration
Come meet other families from Rising Star Academy (formerly Van Asselt Elem.) and help build community between our two schools. To help kids continue to get to know each other, they usually play soccer and ultimate frisbee games as well as other activities. Snacks and drinks are provided. Read the Rising Star & Green Lake Partnership Newsletter.
Who: all students and their families
Time: Weekend afternoon in June
Location: Local park
Contact: Social Justice - socialjustice@greenlakedragons.org and Equity - equity@greenlakedragons.org
Come meet other families from Rising Star Academy (formerly Van Asselt Elem.) and help build community between our two schools. To help kids continue to get to know each other, they usually play soccer and ultimate frisbee games as well as other activities. Snacks and drinks are provided. Read the Rising Star & Green Lake Partnership Newsletter.
Who: all students and their families
Time: Weekend afternoon in June
Location: Local park
Contact: Social Justice - socialjustice@greenlakedragons.org and Equity - equity@greenlakedragons.org
Field Day
June 12, 2020; 9:00am-1:00pm
Students head to Green Lake park for some fun and games. Volunteers can help set up/clean up, run a station (like face painting), or a sports game. *Volunteer paperwork must be completed for family members to participate*
Who: all families, parents can volunteer
Time: Friday morning in June; usually 9:00-1:00pm
Location: Green Lake park
Contact: Vondell Johnson, PE Teacher, vljohnson@seattleschools.org
June 12, 2020; 9:00am-1:00pm
Students head to Green Lake park for some fun and games. Volunteers can help set up/clean up, run a station (like face painting), or a sports game. *Volunteer paperwork must be completed for family members to participate*
Who: all families, parents can volunteer
Time: Friday morning in June; usually 9:00-1:00pm
Location: Green Lake park
Contact: Vondell Johnson, PE Teacher, vljohnson@seattleschools.org
End of the Year Family Potluck
We opened the year with a Welcome Back potluck and we close the year with a final potluck to celebrate another great year with our amazing Green Lake School community. In the past, musical families and school staff have performed on our stage. Families are encouraged to bring any dish they’d like to share (kid friendly food encouraged).
Who: all students and their families
Time: Friday evening in June; usually 5:30-7:30pm
Location: Cafetorium, Olallie Garden and/or playground (weather depending)
Contact: Family Fun Nights Coordinator The PTA is looking for a family fun night coordinator. Contact the PTA co-presidents - ptapresident@greenlakedragons.org
We opened the year with a Welcome Back potluck and we close the year with a final potluck to celebrate another great year with our amazing Green Lake School community. In the past, musical families and school staff have performed on our stage. Families are encouraged to bring any dish they’d like to share (kid friendly food encouraged).
Who: all students and their families
Time: Friday evening in June; usually 5:30-7:30pm
Location: Cafetorium, Olallie Garden and/or playground (weather depending)
Contact: Family Fun Nights Coordinator The PTA is looking for a family fun night coordinator. Contact the PTA co-presidents - ptapresident@greenlakedragons.org
Islandwood Camp for 4th Graders
Continuing the GLES tradition, all 4th graders will attend Islandwood Camp, an overnight camp on Bainbridge Island. Islandwood’s school overnight program extends learning beyond the classroom, engaging students in critical thinking, scientific investigations, and actions that build awareness of and concern for the wellbeing of people and our planet.
Who: 4th graders
Time: 3 nights/4 days in June
Location: Islandwood Camp on Bainbridge Island
Contact: 4th Grade teachers
Continuing the GLES tradition, all 4th graders will attend Islandwood Camp, an overnight camp on Bainbridge Island. Islandwood’s school overnight program extends learning beyond the classroom, engaging students in critical thinking, scientific investigations, and actions that build awareness of and concern for the wellbeing of people and our planet.
Who: 4th graders
Time: 3 nights/4 days in June
Location: Islandwood Camp on Bainbridge Island
Contact: 4th Grade teachers
5th Grade Week
Time to celebrate all that the 5th graders have accomplished and have some fun! In the past, this has included a trip to the golf course for a round of putt putt and ultimate frisbee and other games at Green Lake park.
Who: 5th graders
Time: Various, during the school day in June
Location: Various
Contact: 5th Grade teachers
Time to celebrate all that the 5th graders have accomplished and have some fun! In the past, this has included a trip to the golf course for a round of putt putt and ultimate frisbee and other games at Green Lake park.
Who: 5th graders
Time: Various, during the school day in June
Location: Various
Contact: 5th Grade teachers
Kindergarten Graduation
In the past, the graduation takes place at Green Lake park so that all family members can attend. Teachers walk the students down from the school. Each student receives a “diploma” from their teachers.
Who: Kindergarten students and their families
Time: Weekday morning in June
Location: Green Lake park near the playground
Contact: Kindergarten teachers
In the past, the graduation takes place at Green Lake park so that all family members can attend. Teachers walk the students down from the school. Each student receives a “diploma” from their teachers.
Who: Kindergarten students and their families
Time: Weekday morning in June
Location: Green Lake park near the playground
Contact: Kindergarten teachers
5th Grade Promotion
A special event celebrating all the accomplishments of the 5th graders.
Who: 5th graders and their families
Time: Weekday afternoon in June, followed by evening family picnic at a local park
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: 5th Grade teachers
A special event celebrating all the accomplishments of the 5th graders.
Who: 5th graders and their families
Time: Weekday afternoon in June, followed by evening family picnic at a local park
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: 5th Grade teachers
FLASH Family Night for 5th Graders
A welcoming workshop about puberty for 5th graders and family adults. The night usually begins with pizza in the cafetorium followed by 2 workshops, 1 for girls and 1 for boys. They are fun, informative workshops about the changes of puberty. Parents can attend with their child. A parent of the opposite sex can attend with their son or daughter. Kids are referred to their families regarding controversial issues. The goal of the workshop is to increase your family’s communication, so kids come to you first.
Who: 5th graders and their families
Time: Weekday evening in June
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: 5th Grade teachers
A welcoming workshop about puberty for 5th graders and family adults. The night usually begins with pizza in the cafetorium followed by 2 workshops, 1 for girls and 1 for boys. They are fun, informative workshops about the changes of puberty. Parents can attend with their child. A parent of the opposite sex can attend with their son or daughter. Kids are referred to their families regarding controversial issues. The goal of the workshop is to increase your family’s communication, so kids come to you first.
Who: 5th graders and their families
Time: Weekday evening in June
Location: Cafetorium
Contact: 5th Grade teachers
JULY
In-Coming Kindergarten Meet-Ups
A fun way to meet and get to know other new kinder families. They are usually scheduled the last week in June for the following summer months. Make sure to sign up to get email notices during the Ice Cream Social!
Who: In-coming Kindergarteners and their families
Time: Various times during the day and evening in July & August.
Location: Playground
Contact: Kindergarten parent. The PTA is looking for a coordinator. Contact the Events Coordinator - events@greenlakedragons.org
A fun way to meet and get to know other new kinder families. They are usually scheduled the last week in June for the following summer months. Make sure to sign up to get email notices during the Ice Cream Social!
Who: In-coming Kindergarteners and their families
Time: Various times during the day and evening in July & August.
Location: Playground
Contact: Kindergarten parent. The PTA is looking for a coordinator. Contact the Events Coordinator - events@greenlakedragons.org