September 2021

The First Day of School is fast approaching. While we will miss the lazy days of summer, we are excited to be starting the new year. The teachers are busy getting their rooms ready while I have been busy getting the paperwork and class assignments done. We are almost there. Now to answer the question that is on everyone’s mind what we will be doing regarding masks.

MASKS

As of today, according to the EEC “children under 5 are exempt from the DPH advisory of wearing masks.” * With that said we have decided on the following. We will not put forth a mask mandate but will leave it up to each individual family. Note: If you have your child wear a mask, we are less likely to have to quarantine a classroom in the event we have a positive case. *subject to change

Teachers will be wearing masks indoors when they are unable to distance themselves. While they will be wearing them your children will be able to see their teacher without a mask during many parts of the day.

Parents: Mask will be required for all parents entering the building.

CLASSROOMS

An air purifier is on in each classroom, and we use the product Force of Nature to sanitize and disinfect surfaces and toys.

Health and Safety Protocols

We want the school to be a healthy environment for all. In lieu of a mask mandate we will keep in place health screenings.

Prior to sending your child to school, please answer the following questions, if you answer yes to any of the questions, please do not send your child to school until their symptoms have improved or they have a negative COVID test if one is needed.

Today or in the past 72 hours, have you or any household members had any of the following symptoms?

• Fever (a temperature, felt feverish or had chills?

• Cough?

• Sore throat?

• Difficulty breathing?

• Gastrointestinal symptoms (diarrhea, nausea, vomiting)

• Fatigue?

• Headache?

• New loss of smell/taste?

• New muscle aches?

• Any other signs of illness?

In the past 10 days, have you had close contact with a person known to be infected with the novel coronavirus (COVID 19) or waiting for results?

If your child has any of these symptoms, you should contact their pediatrician, who will advise you if a COVID test is needed. Last year parents did a great job keeping their children home when they were sick, had a runny nose, or they felt they were coming down with a cold.

MEET AND GREET

Five Day and T/TH Programs: September 14th at 9

MWF Programs: September 15th @ 9

A teacher will be at the entrance to greet you and give you a name tag for you and your child.

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

Teachers: September 13th --CPR and First Aid Training

Five Day and T/TH Programs: September 16th (8:45 – 12:30)

MWF Programs: September 17th (8:45 – 12:30)

Drop off will be at the classroom door to begin school. If there is a need, we will change it to our entrance after a few weeks. If you child is new to our school and we make the change you may continue to drop off at the classroom door until you and your child feels comfortable. If you prefer to begin the year dropping off at our entrance, a teacher from every classroom will be there to greet you and assist your child to their classroom

Pick up: We are working through the logistics and will let you know at the Meet and Greet.

TUITION

Payment plan installments are due the first of the month. Invoices will be emailed approximately 5 days prior to the first, you may pay online, by mail or in person. If you would like to switch your method of payment, please let me know.

Tuition is due even if your child, their classroom, or school needs to quarantine. In the event of a Governor’s stay at home order, the upcoming month’s installment will be half and we will go to remote learning. As soon as the stay-at-home order is lifted your installment payment will revert to full payment.

Communication

Our School Calendar is posted in our Parent’s Lounge.

Monthly School Newsletter: you will receive an email when the newsletter is posted to our Parent Lounge.

Class Dojo: You will receive an email from your child’s teacher to join. On the app, you will receive daily/weekly updates and you are able email your teacher.

I am always available if you need an answer asap through email or by phone.

FIELD TRIP

Our first field trip will be to Spencer Pierce Little Farm in Newbury. Drop off will be at 9:15 at the farm and pick up with be at 11:30. This program will be outdoors and will be limited to teachers and students due to SPLF Covid protocols. More information will be provided as we get closer to this trip.

Five Day and T/TH Programs: September 30th

MWF Programs: October 1st.

Due to the MWF field trip, there will be no school for the Five Program on Oct 1st.

Note: In the event this field trip is canceled, there will be no school on September 30th and October 1st as the church is rented out for a Quilters Bazaar from Thursday through Saturday.

SNACK TIME

Please supply their lunchbox with a Napkin, a drink, and a Healthy Snack, and please include a water bottle. J PLEASE remember we are TREE NUT and PEANUT SENSITIVE. Please make sure your child’s snacks DO NOT contain any PEANUTS OR TREE NUTS Products

CHILDREN’S RECORDS

Please notify the office of any changes in address, email addresses, phone numbers, Emergency contacts, or custody agreements. The office will notify you a month in advance, when your child needs a new physical, if it is during the school year.

FIRE DRILLS/LOCK DOWN DRILLS

We will practice fire drills once a month and lock down drills twice a year. The first full week of school we will practice a fire drill. The teachers explain to their class what a fire drill is and then do a walk through with them. In future months, I will use the smoke detector outside the classroom doors to alert the classrooms we are having a fire drill.

During the first month of school, the Newburyport Fire Department will come in and conduct a fire drill.

Parent Participation

At this time there will be no in school parent participation. A way to participate is to video yourself reading a story and we will share with the class. We value your input and look forward to having you come into the classrooms in the future.

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May/June 2021

We Made it!

We started the school year with: Will there be another shutdown? Will we go remote? Will we be able to keep everyone safe? Will the children be able to wear mask? Will the children have fun? Will the teachers be able to teach in masks? The unknowns were many. Now, here we are with six weeks left. All the unknowns are behind us and I am happy we took the risk and provided you and your children with much needed normalcy.

It would not have happened without our wonderful teachers. They are the BEST, and I cannot thank them enough. They put aside their own fears, put on their masks and treated this year like any other. They provided a fun and loving environment for your children to learn and grow.

Who do we appreciate, Mrs. Gray, Mrs. Mirra, Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Forrest, Mrs. Murphy, Mrs. Flansbury and Miss Emily!!!!

Tuition

Invoices for your last installment payment were emailed at the end of April.

Honey Pot Club Sign up

The Honey Pot club is a weeklong themed camp being offered for current students of MMNS and consists of story time, arts and crafts, free play, gym/or outdoor activities and snack time (provided by parent).

Theme: Summertime Fun! Week: June 14th – 18th Time: 8:45-12:30 Cost: $175.00 per child Limit: 12 children

Registration will begin on May 7th through sign up genius. After you sign up, an invoice will be emailed to you to pay online. If you have any questions about the camp program, please speak to Mrs. Riley or Mrs. Gray.

Scholastic Book Orders

This is the last order for the school year. May Book orders are due by the 14th. Fliers were sent home and may be viewed online at scholastic.com as well. Our school code is: DK2M4.

Orders placed after the 14th may not arrive before the end of school. Thank you for those who ordered throughout the year!

Mismatched and Movie Day

On Thursday, May 13th (Mrs. Mirra and Mrs Smith’s classes) and Friday, May 14th, please send your child in mismatched clothing. We will be watching a movie as well.

Memorial Day

We will be closed on May 31st in observance of Memorial Day.

Year End Information

End of the year folders with progress reports, extra clothing and medication held at school will be sent home on Tuesday, June 8th and Wednesday, June 9th, unless attending the Honey Pot Club.

Parent’s Day Show

Our In-School Parent’s Day Show will be held on Thursday June 10th (Mrs. Mirra’s and Mrs. Smith’s classes) and Friday June 11th (Mrs. Mirra’s, Mrs. Forrest’s and Mrs. Gray’s classes). Information to follow.

Last Day of School

Thursday June 10th is the last day of school for Mrs. Mirra’s and Mrs. Smith’s classes.

Friday June 11th is the last day for Mrs. Mirra’s, Mrs. Forrest and Mrs. Gray’s classes.

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April 2021

HAPPY SPRING!!!

We made it to April!! Thank you for being diligent about keeping your children home when they are not feeling well, if you have traveled or been around large groups. It has made a tremendous difference this year. I can not believe how fast the time is going by; we have 10 weeks left of school. 😊

ST. PATRICK’S DAY

Hope your children had fun celebrating St Patrick’s Day. They looked very cute in their green attire. Thank you to those who sent in our party snacks. YUMMY!!

NO SCHOOL

Friday, April 2nd: Good Friday

CRAZY HAT DAY

We will be having Crazy Hat Day on April 8th (Mrs. Mirra’s & Mrs. Smith’s classes) and April 9th. Mrs. Smith’s Five-Day Students please feel free to wear your hats both days. Please use your child’s imagination in creating these crazy hats. We look forward to seeing their creations.

SPRING VACATION

We will be closed the week of April 19th-23rd for Spring Vacation. We will reopen on Monday April 26th.

SCHOLASTIC BOOK ORDERS

The March Book Orders should be arriving next week. Thank you for ordering!

April Book orders will be due by April 16th. Fliers may be viewed online at scholastic.com. Our school code is: DK2M4.

Upcoming Events

Mismatch and Movie Day: May 13th & 14th

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March 2021

What a difference a year makes!! At this time last year, we were planning on celebrating St. Paddy’s Day but ended up teaching remotely for the rest of the year and spending the summer wondering if we would return in September. Like the saying “If you build it, they will come”! We opened and you came! Though things may seem different, to our students nothing has changed except they have to wear masks while learning, playing, and having a fun day…Here at Mrs. Murray’s School! 😊

Teddy Bear and Pajama Day

On Thursday, March 11th (Mrs. Smith/Mrs. Mirra) and Friday, March 12th (Mrs. Gray, Mrs. Forrest & Mrs. Mirra)Your child may wear their pajamas and bring in their favorite Teddy Bear. If your child does not have a Teddy Bear, they may borrow one of ours.

St. Patrick’s Day Party

To get into the spirit, please have you child wear a little or a lot of GREEN. Parties will be held on Tuesday, March 16th (Mrs. Mirra’s class) and Wednesday March 17th (rest of the school). To sign up for treats, please look for the sign-up genius email which will be sent shortly.

Vaccinations

The teachers are in the process of scheduling their vaccinations. There are limited times available, so they are not able to pick. So far, those who have been able to get appointments have different days. Providing no one has any adverse effects; it should not interfere with school.

Music Class

We have started whole school Music Class to get ready for Parent’s Day, yes, we are extremely optimistic. It is being held in the gym, the children are wearing masks and the classes are separated. Our Kindergarten students will not be participating as they will be getting ready for their own end of the year celebration.

Upcoming….

April 2nd: No School: Good Friday

April 19th – April 23rd: April Vacation

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December 2020

In house Registration for September 2021

Registration forms were emailed on November 30th. Forms were emailed on December 7th, for those who withdrew this year due to Covid. Public registration begins on December 14th. If you know of a family looking for the Best Preschool 😊, please have them fill out the contact form on our website.

Thanksgiving Feast

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving Feast. We made turkey headbands, butter, johnny cakes (corn pancakes) and popcorn.

Community Service:

· “Thank you” Flyers for Veteran’s Day: Michael’s Harborside included them in there mail out to 625 local veterans.

Christmas Sing along

The teachers will post a video of their class singing a couple of Christmas songs.

Christmas Pajama Parties

We will be having our parties on Thursday, December 17th (Mrs. Smith’s and Mrs. Mirra’s class) and Friday, December 18th (Mrs. Gray’s, Mrs. Forrest’s, and Mrs. Mirra’s). Please have your children wear Christmas pajamas to school. We will be doing our traditional gift exchange with a twist at the individual parties. Maybe (wink, wink) Santa will pay us a window and classroom door visit (masked, of course).

Gift Exchange: you have a choice this year: buy a $10 grab gift: boy buys for boy and girls buy for a girl, wrap and put to a boy/girl from: your child’s name or buy a $10 grab for your child and only your child’s name on it. It is fun exchanging within the class but wanted to give everyone a COVID option. Please send in on or before December 15th. Thank you!!

Holiday Treats

Sign up genius emails will be sent by December 9th for party treats.

School Cancellations

Just a reminder, we usually follow the Newburyport Public School systems, but with Hybrid Learning, I am not sure exactly how they will call snow days this year. Until we hear more about their procedure, please wait to hear from us.

Our NO SCHOOL ANNOUCEMENTS will be sent via email, class dojo, and posted on our Facebook page. We will try and have NO SCHOOL announcements posted as soon as possible.

T-Shirt Sale

We have discounted our logo Tee shirts and sweatshirts. The short/long sleeve tees are now $5.00, and our hoodie sweatshirts are $10.00. We have limited sizes left: Gray Sweatshirts (youth small), white long sleeve Hanes extra small (2-4) and yellow short sleeve Gildan Heavy Cotton XS youth. They will be in the entryway. If you would like one, please let me know.

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NOVEMBER 2020

Halloween

Everyone looked so cute in their costumes and enjoyed the treats at their Halloween Parties. Thank you to the parents who provided them. Even though our sing along was a little different this year, your children did a great job singing their Halloween songs. Hope you were able to see them on Class Dojo.

No School

Tuesday, November 3, 2020: Election Day: Hope Church is used for polling.

Wednesday, November 11, 2020 as we observe the Veteran’s Day Holiday.

Wednesday, November 25th – 27th: Thanksgiving Break

Thanksgiving

Monday November 23rd (Mrs. Forrest’s and Mrs. Mirra’s class) and Tuesday November 24th, (Mrs. Gray’s, Mrs. Smith’s, and Mrs. Mirra’s Two Day), we will be cooking our Thanksgiving Feast. We will be making Butter (heavy cream) Johnny Cakes (jiffy corn muffin mix) Air popped popcorn and apple juice. No additional snack will be needed.

SNOW DAY POLICY

We usually follow the Newburyport Public School systems, but with Hybrid Learning, I am not sure exactly how they will call snow days this year. Until we hear more about their procedure, please wait to hear from us.

Our NO SCHOOL ANNOUCEMENTS will be sent via email, class dojo, and posted on our Facebook page. We will try and have NO SCHOOL announcements posted as soon as possible.

REGISTRATION FOR SEPTEMBER 2021-2022

On Monday, November 30th, we will begin current student and sibling registration. A Registration Form will be sent via email. Please check off your program choice and return with a $300 nonrefundable deposit* for one child by December 11, 2020 to secure your child’s spot. Public registration begins on December 14th.

*two or more children, the nonrefundable deposit is $500.00.

COMMUNITY SERVICE:

Veteran’s Day Thank You Cards

All our classes colored in “Thank You “cards. We photocopied them and dropped them off at Michael’s Harborside. Their Veteran’s Day Luncheon will be a little different due to COVID. Instead of the luncheon, they will mail 625 Veteran’s a Thank you Veterans Dinner Option that will include our card. Our little way of saying Thank you to our Veterans.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Christmas Party Pajama Day and Gift Exchange: DECEMBER 17th & 18th.

Christmas Sing a long: on class dojo

Winter Break: December 19th-January 1, 2021. School reopens on Monday, Jan 4, 2021.

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OCTOBER 2020

As I write this, we will be wrapping up our second full week of school. Though it may be a little different, we feel the changes have not affected the way we teach and interact with your children. I credit our amazing teachers. They made the adjustments to their curriculum and schedule and assured me “We got this”, which is always been their motto. We are incredibly lucky to have them. They make MMNS the absolute Best Preschool and “First time” Kindergarten Program!

Drop Off/Pick Up:

Our new procedures have been working well and will continue to use them. If you have any suggestions on how to improve our system, please let me know.

Tuition Payment Plan

Your payments are due on the first. Last year I sent the invoices 10 days prior, this year they will be sent 5 days prior.

Enrollment

Enrollment has stopped for this year with a few exceptions in our youngest classroom. In January, we will revisit this decision.

CPR

All teachers were recertified on September 14th and we are current with our First Aid Certification

Cold/Allergy Season

As we start to get into cold/allergy season, we feel having the children wear their masks as much as possible will help minimize the spread of illnesses. Mask breaks will be given at snack and on an as needed basis. If your child is exhibiting symptoms due to allergies, please note this on your screening form. I will check their file and will be in touch if allergies are not list. Reminder: If someone is sick in your house, please take that into consideration before sending your child to school.

Masks

Please make sure your child is wearing a clean mask every morning and there are two additional masks in their cubbies.

School Pictures

As you know many small businesses have been affected by COVID 19. The many restrictions currently in place have devastated the businesses of School Photographers. We have the absolute best photographer, Michael from Northeast School Pictures and want to help him keep his business afloat. He will be coming to the school on Monday, Oct 19th for the whole school. Those in Mrs. Mirra’s Tues/Thursday class may bring their child on Monday morning to have their pictures taken.

Changes: Michael will be wearing a mask and maintaining 6’ foot distance at all times. The classroom teacher will assist him by helping the children with their masks, putting them on the stool and fixing their hair if needed. This year, there will not be a whole school picture, but classroom photos will be made using the children’s individual pictures. Flyers will be sent home on Wednesday/Thursday, Oct 14th/15th.

Parent Participation

Please feel free to read a story on video and send it to us to share with your child’s class.

Halloween Parties

Mrs. Smith’s Class and Mrs. Mirra’s T/Th: Oct 29th

Mrs. Gray’s and Three-Day Programs: Oct 30th

No lunch boxes are needed. We will be using sign up genius for signing up to bring in our party treats. The link will be emailed next week.

Costumes

Children may wear their costumes to school. Please leave any costume “weapons” at home.

Parade

We have decided weather permitting (no rain, strong wind or extreme cold) to have our Halloween Parade outside. Details to follow

Sing A long

The classes will be learning a couple of Halloween songs. The teachers will video them singing in the costumes and will share it on class dojo.

Fire Department Visit

We are working on this. Date to be announced.

Fire Drill

All classes did a “walk through” Fire drill in Sept. This month, we will be doing a whole school fire drill.

No School: Oct 12th- Columbus Day

Upcoming Event: Thanksgiving Feast: 11/23 & 11/24

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December 2019

In house Registration for September 2020

Registration forms were emailed on November 25th. If you are registering your child/sibling, please return the form with your nonrefundable deposit by December 12th When your contract is signed by the office, your child will be registered.

Thanksgiving Feast

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving Feast. We made turkey headbands, butter, johnny cakes (corn pancakes) and popcorn.

CPR/First Aid

Teachers will be taking CPR/First Aid on December 2nd.

Community Service:

• Food Drive: Thank you to the families who contributed to our annual food drive which benefited the Pettengill House in Salisbury, Ma.

• Placemats for Veteran’s Day: Our local Veterans loved the placemats our children made for their dinner at Michael’s Harborside. One wonderful veteran sent us a thank you. He made our day.

• Senior Moments Sing along: On Thursday, December 12th, we will sing some Christmas songs to a group of seniors who meet in the church’s café.

Christmas Sing along

On Tuesday December 17th (Mrs. Gray’s class and the T/Th class) and Wednesday December 18th (3-day class) we will have a Christmas sing along for parents in the gym. It will begin at 9:05 am. Hope to see you there!

Christmas Parties

We will be having our parties on Tuesday December 17h and Weds. December 18th. We will be doing our traditional gift exchange at the parties. Children should bring in a $10.00 gift on or before December 13th. Girls buy for a girl and boys for a boy. Please wrap, sign your child’s name to it and give it to their teacher. Maybe (wink, wink) Santa will pay us a visit, courtesy of the Newburyport Fire Department.

Holiday Treats

Sign up genius emails will be sent by December 10th for party treats. If you signed up for the Halloween Party, please allow a day for those who didn’t to sign up first. Thank you.

School Cancellations

Just a reminder if Newburyport Public school cancels due to weather we will be closed as well. If they call a delay, we will open at 8:45 unless you receive notification from MMNS that we have delayed or cancelled.

T-Shirt Sale

We have discounted our logo Tee shirts and sweatshirts. The short/long sleeve tees are now $5.00, and our hoodie sweatshirts are $10.00. We have limited sizes left. They will be in the entryway. If you would like one, please let me know.

Upcoming Events:

SCHOOL REOPENS: Thursday JANUARY 2,2020

January 9/10: Nutrition (older classes) No School: Monday January 20, MLK DAY

January 23/24: Puppeteer

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November 2019

In House Program-Nutrition

Mrs. M came in and discussed healthy snacks.  She showed us the Crazies and the Crash. After she showed us how much sugar were in some snacks. We had to choose which snack was a better choice.

Fire Department Visit

Thank you to Newburyport Firefighters Ken Parseghian (Mrs. Becky’s husband), and Chris Richard (Colbie’s Dad) who came to visit.  The children had fun climbing on the fire truck and watching them put on their “turn out gear”.  They showed us a great video on fire safety and talked about having a fire drill plan at home, how to get out of our house and what to do if our clothes catch on fire. 

Police Visits

Thank you to Sgt. Gregory Whitney (MMNS alumni) and Officer John Gavin (Joshua’s Dad) of the Newburyport Police Dept. for bringing in their police cruisier for us to crawl through and their safety talk to the children. Thank you to Detective Bob DeMeo of the Massachusetts State Police and Meaghan DeMeo (Jackson, Ben and Lauren’s parents) for coming in, reading a story, having a safety talk with the children, bringing badges and a cruiser for the children to climb through.  

Both days the children learned that Policeman are there to protect and help them if needed.

Halloween

Your children did a great job parading around the gym and singing their Halloween songs. Thank you to the parents who provided our treats.  They looked awesome!  

No School

Tuesday, November 5, 2019: Election Day:  Hope Church is used for polling.

Monday, November 11,2019 as we observe the Veteran’s Day Holiday. 

Wednesday, November 27th – 29th:  Thanksgiving Break

 Thanksgiving

Monday November 25th and Tuesday November 26th, we will be cooking our Thanksgiving Feast. We will be making Butter (heavy cream) Johnny Cakes (jiffy corn muffin mix) Air popped popcorn and apple juice.  No additional snack will be needed. 

SNOW DAY POLICY

There will be NO SCHOOL at MRS MURRAY’S if the NEWBURYPORT PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM Cancels/Announces no school due to inclement weather.  WE will OPEN at regular time if Newburyport Public School calls a 2-hour delay, (even if they list no pre-k classes, that is for the PUBLIC SCHOOL ONLY).

Our NO SCHOOL ANNOUCEMENTS will be sent via email, class dojo, and posted on our Facebook page. We will try and have NO SCHOOL announcements posted as soon as possible.

REGISTRATION FOR SEPTEMBER 2020-2021

On Monday, November 27th, we will begin current student and sibling registration. A contract will be sent via email.  Please check off your program choice and return with a $300 nonrefundable deposit* for one child by December 12, 2019 to secure your child’s spot.  Public registration begins on December 13th.

*two or more children, the nonrefundable deposit is $500.00.

COMMUNITY SERVICE:

Pettengill House Food Drive

The first two weeks of November we will be collecting food donations for the Pettengill House in Salisbury.  There will be a box in the hall to place your donations if you wish to participate.

Veteran’s Day Placemats

All our classes will be making “Thank You “placemats which will be photocopied and used at the Veteran’s Day luncheon held at Michael’s Harborside.  Our little way of saying Thank you to our Veterans.

Operation Christmas Child

Notices about Operation Christmas Child went home last week with your child.  The Hope Community Church participates in Operation Christmas Child and is a drop off location for this collection.  Shoeboxes are packed for a boy or a girl with some items from the suggested list.  Tape on the appropriate label, include $9 to help with shipping and bring back to school unwrapped. If you choose to fill a box, we will deliver them to the church, and they will be wrapped and sent out to Samaritan’s Purse.  Shoe boxes are available in the church lobby if needed.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Christmas Party and Gift Exchange:  DECEMBER 17th & 18th.

Christmas Sing a long: DECMBER 17 & 18th at 9:05 in the gym.

Winter Break: December 19th-January 1st 2020. School reopens on Thursday Jan 2,2020.

 

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October 2019

Apple Crest Orchard Trip  

Thank you to all the parents who joined us.  We had beautiful weather for apple picking and our students had fun, unfortunately our overall experience at the farm was not what we expected.  The wait time was a little too long for preschoolers.  We will be looking for a new farm for Sept. 2020. If you have any suggestions, please let me know.

In House Programs

The Newburyport Fire Dept will be visiting us on October 3rd & 4th. They will teach us about Fire Safety, show us their gear, and we may even get a chance to climb on their firetruck!

Our Nutritionist, Christine Mastrangelo aka Mrs. M will begin our nutrition program for all the classes on October 10th & 11th.

Police Department Visit:  Details to follow

NO SCHOOL 

October 14th Columbus Day Observation

SCHOOL PICTURES

We have the BEST school photographer! Michael from Northeast School Pictures will be coming in:

·        Thurs Oct. 17Th for the Two Day and Four/Five Day PreK Program

·        Friday Oct 18th for the Three-Day Program.

We will be sending out order forms soon.  Please return the order form and payment on or before picture day. Pictures will be taken of all students, only students paying for pictures will receive a picture package. SATISFACTION IS GUARANTEED!

To receive a refund, simply return the entire package to the school with in one week.

 HALLOWEEN CELEBRATIONS

·        Weds October 30th for the Three-Day Program

·        Thurs. October 31st for the Two Day and Four/Five Day PreK Program  

No lunchboxes are needed.  We will be using signupgenius.com for signing up to bring in our party treats. You will be emailed the link. 

If your child has a food allergy/special nutritional needs, please speak with me about the snack for the day.

Costumes

Children should wear their costumes to school. Please leave any costume “weapons” at home.

Please drop your child off at their classroom.

Our “Horrible’s Parade” and Sing a long will begin at 9:05 in the gym. It should last about 15 minutes.

Scholastic Books

This month’s Scholastic Reading Club Flyers are available online at scholastic.com/reading/club.  With every order you help our school earn free books and supplies. 

First Time Ordering ONLINE?

Go to scholastic.com/reading club, enter our one-time class activation code: DK2M4.

Shop and submit your child’s book order by OCTOBER 25, 2019. Your books will be delivered directly to the school classroom

UPCOMING EVENTS:

·        Nov. 5: No School: Election Day

·        Nov 11: No School: Veteran’s Day

·        Nov 14/15: Nutrition (Older Classes)

·        Nov 25/26: Thanksgiving Feast

·        Nov 27-29: NO SCHOOL THANKSGIVING BREAK

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 SEPTEMBER 2019

The First Day of School is almost here! While we are sad to see the lazy days of summer go, we are looking forward to beginning the school year.  The classrooms are ready, and the teachers are excited to meet their new students and their families.

 Meet and Greet

 On Monday, September 9th, from 9-10:00 children attending our Three-Day MWF Program, will have an opportunity to meet their teachers prior to the first day of school on Wednesday, September 11th.

 On Tuesday September 10th, from 9-10:00 am, children attending our Two/PreK Four-Five Programs will have an opportunity to meet their teachers prior to the first day of school on, September 11th for the Four-Five program, and on Thursday Sept.12th for Two-day program.

 Note.  If your child is attending our Preschool Four Day program (younger classes), your child may attend both Meet and Greets. If you have any questions about which Meet and Greet to attend please email me at driley@mapreschools.com.

 At the Meet and Greet

 Please check in.. You will need to sign the acknowledgement page of the handbook, check to see if your child’s file is complete and get a name tag for you and your child.

 First Day

 The First Day of School will bring a wide range of emotions for YOU and your child. To help with first day jitters, we suggest making a “quick exit”.

Bring your child into their classroom and greet the teacher. Let your child know he/she will have a fun day, and that you can’t wait to hear about their day at pick up. Give them a big hug and kiss and say goodbye. The classroom teacher will do their “magic” to get your child started with their school day.

If you have a reluctant child, just breathe and let the teacher take them from you. We understand that it is very hard to do but…we have found over the many years of teaching if you prolong your goodbye, it prolongs your child’s chance to settle in. We will be in touch to let you know how your child is doing either by calling you or texting you a picture of your smiling child.

 Tuition

 The second payment of 10 was due on September 1st.  There is a 15-day grace period.  After the 15th a $15.00 late charge may be added. Our return check fee is $30.00.  If you have any questions, please let me know.

 Handbook

 Reminder:  Our handbook is posted on our website in the Parent’s Lounge.  Please read prior to the Meet and Greet.  At the Meet and Greet, we will have you sign the acknowledgment page for your child’s file.

 FIELD TRIP

 Our first field trip will be to Applecrest Farm, 133 Exeter Road (Rt.88), Hampton Falls, NH 03844 Drop off at the farm is at 9:45 for a tour which will start promptly at 10:00AM and pick up at the farm is at 11:15AM. All parents are welcome to join us. The cost for you will be $5:00. This field trip is not sibling friendly. Sign up to join us will be the week of the 16th.

 On Thursday Sept.26h the following programs will participate in field trip:

 Our T/TH programs and Mrs. Gray PreK class.

 On Friday Sept 27th the following programs will participate in the field trip:

 Our MWF programs

 No School

 There will be no school on Friday September 27th for students attending Mrs. Gray’s Five-Day Program.

 SNACK TIME

 Your child will have snack either at 10:30 or 11:00. In their lunch box, please include a napkin, a water bottle or drink, and a Healthy Snack.

 PLEASE remember we are TREE NUT and PEANUT SENSITIVE. Please make sure your child’s snacks DO NOT contain or may contain any PEANUTS OR TREE NUTS Products.

 CHILDREN’S RECORDS

 Please notify the office of any changes in address, email addresses, phone numbers (cells included), Emergency contacts, or custody agreements.

 The office will notify you a month in advance, if your child needs a new physical during the school year.

 FIRE DRILLS/LOCK DOWN DRILLS

 We will practice fire drills once a month and lock down drills twice a year.  The first day of school we will practice a “walk through” fire drill.  Your child’s teacher will explain what a fire drill is. After they will walk the class through the classrooms and out the School’s entrance explaining as they go what your children need to do.

The Newburyport Fire Department will conduct a fire drill within the first month of school.

 For future fire drills, a handheld smoke detector will be used to alert the classes we are having a fire drill. Each month it will be done from a different location/time.

UPCOMING EVENTS

·         School Pictures

·         The Fire Dept. will visit us for Fire Safety.

·         No School:  Columbus Day

·         The Police Dept. will visit us for a Safety Talk

·         Halloween Parties and Parade

 

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August 2019

WELCOME TO MRS. MURRAY’S NURSERY SCHOOL

As the new school year approaches, we are very busy getting everything ready for an exciting year of learning, making new friends and having fun!

There have been some changes to MMNS 

 ·  We had to say goodbye to Alyssa Turturro. Alyssa decided to change careers and go into real estate, but she promised to come back and visit.  We wish her well in her new career.  

·   We are excited to introduce three new teachers: Lindsay Forrest, Ashley Murphy and Loren Flansbury who are very excited to be joining us. Please see their bios below.

·   Our classrooms and hallway have been painted and Mrs. Gray will be making new ocean theme curtains for each room.

In the upcoming days, the teachers will be in and out of their classrooms getting them organized for your children.  If they haven’t been it touch with you, they will be soon.  

MEET AND GREET

We look forward to reconnecting with our returning families and welcoming our new ones. 

On Monday, September 9th, from 9-10:00 children attending our Three-Day MWF Program, will have an opportunity to meet their teachers prior to the first day of school on Wednesday, September 11th.

On Tuesday September 10th, from 9-10:00 am, children attending our Two/PreK Four-Five Programs will have an opportunity to meet their teachers prior to the first day of school on, September 11th for the Four-Five program, and on Thursday Sept.12th for Two-day program.

Note.  If your child is attending our Preschool Four Day program (younger classes), your child may attend both Meet and Greets. If you have any questions about which Meet and Greet to attend please email me at driley@mapreschools.com.

Handbook

Our handbook is posted on our website in the Parent’s Lounge.  Please read prior to the Meet and Greet.  At the Meet and Greet, we will have you sign the acknowledgment page for your child’s file.

Annual Calendar

Our annual calendar is posted in the Parent’ Lounge to help you plan out your year with us. 

Tuition

Our annual tuition is broken down into 10 monthly installments.  The first payment was due on August 1st.  Invoices are emailed out 10 days prior to the due date.  Payments are due on the 1st of each month.  There is a 15-day grace period.  After the 15th a $15.00 late charge will be added. Our return check fee is $30.00.  If you have any questions, please let me know.

Openings

We have one opening in our PreK Three Day Program.  If you know of anyone looking, please have them email me.   Thank you!

Learn about our new teachers:

Lindsay Forrest

I currently live in Newburyport with my husband, 4 little girls and our 2 pups. All my girls have gone to MMNS and the youngest will be completing her last year starting this September!

I grew up on Long Island, NY and graduated from New York Institute of Technology with a Masters in School Counseling. While working towards this degree I worked in a special needs program through one of the public schools in NY and absolutely loved my job.

Once I moved to MA in 2007, I worked at a school for children with Autism. I was there for almost 4.5 years and left once my first daughter was born.

I am excited to get back into the teaching field since 3 out of my 4 girls are now in public school full time and working with kids is something I have always loved doing!

Ashley Murphy  

I have lived in Newburyport since 2010 with my husband and our four kids. Although I grew up in the Berkshires, moved to Boston to attend college at Northeastern and fell in love with this end of the state.

At NU, I attended the five-year co-op program which allowed me to work and take classes. This opportunity was when I realized that I love being in the classroom. I graduated NU in 2003 with my bachelors in American Sign Language Interpreting. After college, I began my career as a Special Education teacher and have been teaching kids of all ages and disabilities. Along the way I received my M.Ed. in Severe Disabilities and my C.A.G.S. as a Reading Specialist.
I’m very excited to be working here at Mrs. Murray’s - it’s a big part of my family’s life and a wonderful community.

 Loren Flansbury 

Working with children brings me so much joy and I feel very fortunate to have joined the MMNS team. I am so excited to spend the upcoming year exploring, learning and having fun with the children.

I have a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and over the years I have worked with children from ages 2 through 16 in various capacities including day care, instructional support, special education and social emotional learning. I am in the process of receiving my certification through the MA Department of Early Education and Care.

My husband and I have lived in Newburyport for 26 years. We have a teenaged son and cockapoo, both which keep us very busy. Together we enjoy camping, good food and travel

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May/June 2019 

Tuition

May Tuition invoices were emailed on April 24th. The payment is due on May 1st and is the last payment for most.  Please refer to your contract.  Payments received after the 15th, may be assessed a $15.00 late charge. If you did not receive it, please let me know.

Spencer Peirce Little Farm Field Trip

We had two great days at the farm. Miss Arlene and her crew are the best! Thursday, we had perfect weather, Friday not so much but that did not deter Miss Arlene.  She made both days enjoyable for our students.  From learning about Nellie, how to shear a sheep, feeding the animals to the very fun tractor ride.  Fridays group even learned about the Tale of two kitchens.  If you liked the trip and would love to show your children how a real sheep is sheared, please visit SPL Farm on May 4th for their Vintage Baseball Game and Sheep Shearing Festival.  For more information, visit  my.historicnewengland.org/2663/3113

Honey Pot Club Sign up

The Honey Pot club is a weeklong themed camp being offered for current students of MMNS and consists of story time, arts and crafts, free play, gym/or outdoor activities and snack time (provided by parent).  

Theme: Under the Sea   Week: June 10th – 14th Time: 8:45-12:30 Cost:  $130.00 per child   Limit:  24 children

Registration begins on Wednesday May 1, 2019. There will be a sign-up sheet in the front entry way.  After you sign up, an invoice will be emailed to you to pay on line.   If you have any questions about the camp program, please speak to Mrs. Riley or Mrs. Gray.

SCHOLASTIC BOOK ORDERS

May will be the last time to order book for this year. May Book orders will be due by May 10th.  Fliers may be viewed online at scholastic.com.  Our school code is:  DK2M4. 

Orders placed after the 10th may not arrive before the end of school.  Thank you for those who ordered throughout the year!

Nutrition

Did you know that Pizza is healthy and covers all the food groups depending on your toppings?  Well, we did.  Mrs. M will be joining all the classes on Thursday May 9th and Friday May 10th.  We will have a Pizza Party in celebration of what we learned from her this year.  Note:  still send in your child’s snack for the day as we will have one slice of cheese pizza at the end of the day.  The pizza will be from our friends at Anchor Pizza in Newburyport. 

Pre-K Annual Art Shows:

Mrs. Gray’s class will have their art show on May 9th from 8:45-9:15 am.

Mrs. Smith’s class will display their art work the week of May 20th  

Memorial Day

We will be closed on May 27th in observance of Memorial Day.

In house Programs

Curious Creatures will be in the house on May 23rd and 24th.

Peter Sheridan will be joining us for a musical sing along on May 30th and 31st.

Year End Information

End of the year folders with progress reports, extra clothing and medication held at school will be sent home on Tuesday June 4th and Weds. June 5th, unless attending the Honey Pot Club.

Parent’s Day Show

Our Parent’s Day Show will be held on Thursday June 6th (4-day, 2-day classes) and Friday June 7th (MWF classes)

Please drop your children off at their classrooms for 8:45 am. The show starts at 9:30 am in the church sanctuary and will last approximately 30-45 minutes.  The sanctuary is Handicap accessible. All family members and friends are welcome to attend.

After the show, the children will be dismissed to their parents.   At that time, you are welcome to join us in the café for our cast party J 

A sign up for party treats will be emailed to you.  Please remember NO PEANUTS, PEANUT BUTTER, or TREE NUT PRODUCTS .  

Note: Children will not be returning to their classrooms, no lunch boxes are needed that day.

Last Day of School

Thursday June 6th is the last day of school for the 4/5-day, 2-day Programs.

Friday June 7th is the last day for the 3-day Programs.

 

 

 

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April 2019

 

 

HAPPY SPRING!!!

TUITION

April Tuition invoices were sent out on March 23rd. The payment is due on April 1st. Payments received after the 15th, may be assessed a $15.00 late charge. If you did not receive it, please let me know.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY

Hope your children had fun celebrating St Patrick’s Day.  They looked very cute in their green attire. Thank you to those who sent in our party snacks.  YUMMY!!

ANIMAL DAY PARADE AND SING A LONG

We are so proud of our children, okay your children but we get to claim them as ours for a little bit.   They did an awesome job marching and singing.  They learned five new songs in record time and only needed a little help from the teachers.  Now on to learning new songs for the big end of the year program:  Our Parents Day Sing along, which will be held on the last two days of school. (more info to come in the May Newsletter)

NUTRITION

Mrs. M will be in on April 4th & 5th for the older classes. If your child has tried a new food, please remind them to tell Mrs. M even if it wasn’t their preference. 

SPRING VACATION

We will be closed the week of April 15th-19th for Spring Vacation. We will reopen on Monday April 22nd even though the Nbpt Public Schools will be closed due to a staff development day.

SPENCER PEIRCE LITTLE FARM FIELD TRIP

We will be visiting SPL Farm on Thursday April 25th for the 2, 4/5-day programs and on Friday April 26th for the 3-day program.  Rain or Shine!

Drop off and Pick up will be at the Farm. Please drop off your child by 9:15AM to their teacher and pick up at 11:30AM. IF you would like to join us on the field trip you are more than welcome to, please let the office know so we include you in our count.  There is no cost for attending.

Attire:  Please dress for outdoor activities, as we will be outside most of the morning. Boots may be appropriate as the grass may be “dewey”.  

Due to the number of students, this field trip is not sibling friendly.

Note: Students in Mrs. Gray’s Five-Day Program will have no school on Friday, April 26th.

Directions:  Take I-95 to Route 113, Newburyport. Route 113 turns into Route 1A (High Road). Follow Route 1A for 3.7 miles. Turn left onto Little’s Lane.

SCHOLASTIC BOOK ORDERS

The March Book Orders should be arriving this week.  Thank you for ordering!

April Book orders will be due by April 12th.  Fliers were not sent home but may be viewed online at scholastic.com.  Our school code is:  DK2M4. 

HONEY POT CLUB SIGN UP

The Honey Pot club is a weeklong themed camp being offered for current students of MMNS and consists of story time, arts and crafts, free play, gym/or outdoor activities and snack time (provided by parent).  

Theme: Under the Sea   Week: June 10th – 14th  Time: 8:45-12:30  Cost:  $130.00 per child   Limit:  24 children

Registration begins on Wednesday May 1, 2019. There will be a sign-up sheet in the front entry way.  After you sign up, an invoice will be emailed to you to pay on line.   If you have any questions about the camp program, please speak to Mrs. Riley or Mrs. Gray.

Upcoming Events

May 9th/10th:  Nutrition End of Year: Pizza Party

May 9th: Mrs. Gray’s Art Show

May 23rd/24th: Enrichment Program: Curious Creatures

May 27th:  No School-Memorial Day

May 30th/31st:  Peter Sheridan Sing a long

 

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MARCH 2019

 

VALENTINE’S DAY PARTIES

Love was in the air.  Everyone looked so cute in their Valentine’s Day Colors.  The children had fun passing out and receiving their special valentines. We hope you and your child had a good time looking at them all.  Thank you to the parents that brought in the treats for our party. Our tables looked festive and your children enjoyed them. 

 NUTRITION

Mrs. M will be in on March 7th and 8Th for the older classes.  Please have your child try a new grain.  Mrs. M loves to ask the children if they tried something new and if it was their preference or not. 

ST. PATRICK’S DAY

We will be celebrating St. Patrick’s Day on March 14th and 15th.  Of course, it is GREEN DAY, please have your child wear a little or a lot.  Please watch for the sign-up genius email to sign up to bring in treats.  Guess what?  No grapes this time.

STUFFED ANIMAL DAY AND SING A LONG

On Thursday March 28th (2-day and 4-day programs) and Friday March 29th (3-day program), please have your child bring in their favorite stuffed animal.  We will be showcasing their choice at our First Stuffed Animal Day Parade and Sing along.  Please join us at 12:05 in our gym. 

SCHOLASTIC BOOKS

 Flyers will go home on Monday and Tuesday.  Please place your order online at scholastic.com.  Our school code is DK2M4.  Thank you for your past orders. These orders help to supply points which are used by our teachers to purchase new books for their classrooms.  To date: 20 books have been purchased. 

HONEY POT CLUB

 The Honey Pot Club is a week-long program based on a theme TBA in the April Newsletter. 

To be held the week of:  June 10th – 14th  Time: 8:45 – 12:30  Cost: $130.00   Limit:  24 children   Registration begins on May 1st. 

 OPENINGS

 We have a few openings left:

In our Preschool MWF Program: 4 spots   T/TH Program: 1 spot

In our PreK 4/5 Day Program:  1 spot

Thank you to those who have been spreading the word.  It is much appreciated!

UPCOMING EVENTS

 Nutrition (Older classes) April 11th & 12th

Spring Break:  15th – 19th

Spence Pierce Little Farm Field Trip:  April 25th & 26th

 

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February 2019 

Progress Reports

Progress Reports went home Thursday Jan.31 and Friday Feb. 1,2019.  They do not need to be returned.

CPR Renewal

The teachers completed CPR on January 14, 2019.

Nutrition

Mrs. M will be in on February 7th and 8th for all classes.

Valentine’s Day Parties

Valentine’s day is RED day, wear a little or a lot! Our party days are Wednesday February 13th, for Mrs. Smith’s, Mrs. Turturro’s, and Mrs. Mirra’s classes, and on Thursday February 14th for Mrs. Gray’s, Mrs. Turturro’s and Mrs. Mirra’s classes.  Watch your email for the sign-up genius list of snacks. A separate email will follow with class list names for Valentine Cards.

Winter Break

There is no school the week of February 18th-22rd for our winter break. School will reopen on Monday February 25th.

Reminder, Our Health Care Policy

 We want the school to be a healthy environment for all. Please contact the school if your child will be absent due to illness.  Any contagious disease (chicken pox, conjunctivitis, head lice, strep throat, influenza etc.) needs us to discreetly inform the other parents what is going around. A notice would be sent home via email (without names) All children must be free of an elevated temperature, diarrhea and vomiting for 24 hours without the use of medications, before he/she is to come to school. If your child is on an antibiotic, we ask that the child remain out of school for 24 hours after the medication has been started.  Please keep your child at home when he/she displays diarrhea, vomiting, an unusual rash, eye inflammation, severe cough, congestion or an extremely runny nose. Children will be excluded from the program if running a temperature or showing other symptoms of illness, vomiting, infectious diarrhea, pain or severe discomfort, are too sick to participate, or have a contagious disease or infection.

 

School Cancellations Reminder

 If Newburyport Public Schools is cancelled due to inclement weather, Mrs. Murray’s will be closed.  If Newburyport calls a delay, Mrs. Murray’s will still be open unless you hear from the school via phone, email or text.

Registration for September 2019: We have a few openings in our program for September 2019. If you know of anyone that may be interested, please ask them to give us a call 978-462-2441 or they can email us at  info@mapreschools.com.

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

March 7th & 8th Nutrition Older classes

March 14th & 15th St Patrick’s day parties GREEN DAY

March 20th:  FIRST DAY OF SPRING!!

March 28th & 29th:  Stuffed Animal Parade and Sing A long. Time: 12:05

 

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January 2019

 

Happy New Year!

May this new year all your dreams turn into reality and all your efforts into great achievements.

Christmas Singalong/Party

Your children did an awesome job; learning 5 songs in a short period of time is not easy. We hope you enjoyed the sing along. There were lots of Happy faces at our Christmas parties and Gift exchange. Thank you to all the parents who supplied the treats for our party. We would like to thank the Newburyport Fire Department, for making it possible to have a visit from Santa!

Progress Reports

The Teachers will be working on progress reports this month. Reports will be sent home on January 31st/February 1st.

CPR

After school on January 14th, the teachers will be recertifying their CPR.

No School

We will be closed on Monday January 21st, in honor of Martin Luther King Day.

Nutrition Classes

Mrs. M will be coming in on January 17th and 18th for the older classes to continue her monthly nutrition classes.

Pajama & Movie Day

On Thursday January 24th and Friday January 25th, we will be having a Pajama and Movie Day. Children may wear their Pajamas to school and we will have a movie at the end of the day.

 Registration 2019

Public Registration has begun. If you have any friends interested in enrolling for September 2019, please have them give us a call 978-462-2441 or email us at info@mapreschools.com.  You are OUR BEST form of advertising.

Snow Day Policy

If Newburyport Schools are cancelled due to inclement weather, WE WILL BE CLOSED. If the Newburyport public school calls a 2-hour delay, WE WILL STILL BE OPEN at 8:45 unless you receive an email or call from Mrs. Murray’s Nursery School.

For up to date information, please check our website, Facebook, class dojo, your email or call the school.

Illnesses

We want the school to be a healthy environment. All children must be free (without medication) of an elevated temperature, diarrhea, or vomiting for 24 hours before he/she is to return to school. If your child is on an antibiotic, they need to be on it for at least 24 hours before returning to school. PLEASE keep your child at home when he/she displays diarrhea, vomiting, fever, an unusual rash, eye inflammation, severe cough, congestion or an extremely runny nose.

Please notify the school if your child will be absent.

Parent Participation

Parents are always welcome to come in to read a story, do a project or both. If you would like to come in, please feel free to set up a time with your child’s teacher.

Upcoming events in February:  

7th/8th: Nutrition (all classes)

13th/14th: Valentine’s Day Party

18th -22nd: No School:  Winter Break

 

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