For the past 7 years we have had our motto of Work Hard, Have Fun, Do Good at DE.  This year we have decided to expand on that motto and turn it into a creed.  This creed will form the basis of our Social Emotional Learning and Growth Mindset work that we will engage in this year. A creed is a statement of core beliefs that guides our actions, attitudes, and interactions. It serves as a compass, helping us navigate challenges, celebrate successes, and contribute positively to our community.

Now, let’s break down our creed for the school year:  Work Hard, Have Fun, Do Good

Work Hard:

1.    Persevere through challenges:

o   When faced with difficulties, we don’t give up. Instead, we persist, learn, and grow.

o   Challenges become opportunities for growth and resilience.

2.    Show commitment to learning:

o   We actively engage in our education, valuing knowledge and curiosity.

o   Learning is a lifelong journey, and our commitment fuels progress.

3.    Have consistently good effort:

o   We put forth our best effort consistently, whether in academics, sports, or personal endeavors.

o   Consistency builds habits that lead to excellence.

Next, let’s explore the other aspects of the creed:

Have Fun:

o   We celebrate achievements, big or small.

o   Positive collaboration with peers enhances our experiences.

o   Active participation in learning and play brings joy and fulfillment.

Do Good:

o   Our choices matter, even when no one is watching.

o   Striving to be the best version of ourselves benefits everyone.

o   Kindness, empathy, and responsibility create a positive impact.

Remember, this creed isn’t just words; it’s a commitment we make to ourselves and our community. By living these values, we contribute to a supportive and thriving environment.

Mark your calendars for the following important dates in September:

9/4: FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

9/9: PTA MEETING 6-7 PM CANCELLED

9/13: NFL Spirit Day ~ Wear your favorite team shirt!

9/19: DE OPEN HOUSE 6:30 PM

9/25: PICTURE DAY

9/25: PTA’S SCOOT AND BIKE ICE CREAM SOCIAL 6:00 PM

9/25: BEGINNING INSTRUMENTAL NIGHT 7:00 PM

9/27: EI Spirit Day ~ Wear your NEW East Irondequoit t-shirt! (Coming home soon!)

As we embark on another exciting school year, we want to emphasize the critical role that consistent attendance plays in your child’s academic success and overall development. Here are some key points and statistics to highlight why regular attendance is so important:

Academic Achievement

• Higher Test Scores: Students who attend school regularly are 1.7 times more likely to achieve proficiency in core subjects like math and reading compared to those with irregular attendance.

• Early Literacy: Children who are chronically absent in preschool, kindergarten, and first grade are much less likely to read at grade level by the third grade, making them four times more likely to drop out of high school.

Social and Emotional Benefits

• Better Social Skills: Regular attendance helps children develop better social skills and adjust more easily to the school environment.

• Community Connection: Students who attend school consistently feel more connected to their community and peers, fostering a sense of belonging and support.

Long-Term Impact

• Future Success: Chronic absenteeism is a strong predictor of whether students will drop out of school before graduation. Students who do not complete their high school education are more likely to live in poverty, suffer poor health, and become involved in the criminal justice system.

• Health and Well-being: More than 6.5 million children in the United States, approximately 13% of all students, miss 15 or more days of school each year. This can have significant long-term effects on their health and well-being.

How You Can Help

• Set a Routine: Establish a regular bedtime and morning routine to ensure your child gets enough sleep and is ready for school each day.

• Communicate: Keep open lines of communication with your child’s teacher and school staff. If your child is facing challenges that affect their attendance, let the school know so they can provide support.

• Encourage Engagement: Encourage your child to participate in school activities and make friends. Feeling engaged and connected can motivate them to attend school regularly.

By working together, we can ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed. Thank you for your continued support in making consistent attendance a priority.

DE Main Office Contact information:

Mrs. Trina Yue; School Secretary 339-1245 or pyue@eastiron.org

Miss Lauren Ennis; Attendance Clerk 339-1352 or lennis@eastiron.org

CEP:

When parents or guardians submit the CEP Household Income Form (complete in the Parent Portal or Download Form) regardless of income level, their children become eligible to receive their school supplies from the district at no cost.  Additionally, the student also becomes eligible for various other benefits such as no cost Electronic Device Protection (iPads and laptops), no cost instrument rental, ACT and AP Test Waivers, MCC Dual Enrollment Tuition Waivers, and more.

Device Protection Plan (DPP):

Students in Grades 3-12 must have a completed Device Protection Plan agreement on file to be able to take a device home (indicating the acceptance of the terms for DPP coverage).

There is no longer an initial fee to enroll in this plan, however damage fees still apply (fees explained in Device Protection Plan).

To complete the Device Protection Plan: (Grades 3-12 ONLY):

• Go to the Infinite Campus Parent Portal Online: Device Protection Plan agreements are accessible in the Infinite Campus Parent Portal to digitally sign.

OR…If you do not have access to a computer or mobile device to be able to complete the Device Protection Plan:

• Stop by the main office of your student’s school to complete the Device Protection Plan online.

• Sign and return the physical copy that was mailed home to the main office of your child’s school.