ARCHIVE NEWSLETTERS - FALL 2020
- NEW FRIDAY SCHEDULE (1.7.21) | STARTING JANUARY 15TH
- SUNDAY WAVE (1.3.21) | HAPPY NEW YEAR & IMPORTANT REMINDERS
- COVID-19 UPDATE (12.18.20) | MANDATORY TESTING ON JANUARY 7TH & STAY-AT-HOME ORDER
- SUNDAY WAVE (12.20.20) | HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
- SUNDAY WAVE (12.13.20) | WINTER & HOLIDAY TRADITIONS, NEW COVID-19 PROTOCOLS & SCHEDULE UPDATES
- SUNDAY WAVE (12.6.20) | HOLIDAY EVENING, EXECUTIVE FUNCTION WORKSHOPS & SCHOOL NEWS
- SUNDAY WAVE (11.29.20) | UPCOMING EVENTS, MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPLORATIONS & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS
- SUNDAY WAVE (11.22.20) | HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
- COVID-19 UPDATE: MOVING INTO DISTANCE LEARNING BETWEEN THANKSGIVING AND WINTER BREAK (11.18.20)
- SUNDAY WAVE (11.15.20) | TRIMESTER 2 SURVEY, SAFETY OVER THE HOLIDAYS & SCHOOL NEWS
- SUNDAY WAVE (11.8.20) | UPCOMING EVENTS, ANNUAL FUND & SCHOOL NEWS
- SUNDAY WAVE (11.1.20) | IMPORTANT WEEK COMING UP, ANNUAL FUND & SCHOOL REMINDERS
- SUNDAY WAVE (10.25.20) | SCHOOL UPDATES, UPCOMING EVENTS & ANNUAL FUND
- SUNDAY WAVE (10.18.20) | MIDDLE SCHOOL RETURN TO CAMPUS, SAVE THE DATES & ANNUAL FUND
- SUNDAY WAVE (10.11.20) | SCHOOL YEAR REFLECTION, MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATE & SAVE THE DATES
- SUNDAY WAVE (10.4.20) | COVID ABSENCE PROTOCOLS, SCHOOL SURVEYS & REMINDERS
- SUNDAY WAVE (9.27.20) | SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING, SPIRIT WEEK & SCHOOL UPDATES
- SUNDAY WAVE (9.20.20) | COVID PROTOCOL UPDATES, HYBRID LEARNING & BACK-TO-SCHOOL NIGHT
- SUNDAY WAVE (9.13.20) | SCHOOL UPDATES & MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPLORATIONS
- AIR QUALITY INDEX (AQI) & BLACKOUT POWER OUTAGE POLICIES (COVID) | (9.9.20)
- SUNDAY WAVE (9.6.20) | WAIVER APPROVED, REOPENING CALENDAR & FEEDBACK
- WAIVER APPROVED | TRANSITION TO HYBRID LEARNING MODEL IN THE LOWER SCHOOL
- SUNDAY WAVE (8.30.20) | BACK-TO-SCHOOL UPDATES & BUILDING COMMUNITY
- SUNDAY WAVE (8.23.20) | BACK-TO-SCHOOL REMINDERS & SCHOOL NEWS
NEW FRIDAY SCHEDULE (1.7.21) | STARTING JANUARY 15TH
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SUNDAY WAVE (1.3.21) | HAPPY NEW YEAR & IMPORTANT REMINDERS
Dear Sea Crest Families,
We are excited to be back and hope all of you had a restorative and pleasant winter break.
We wish every day of the new year to be filled with love, joy, kindness, and good health for everyone in our community.
Happy New Year!
~Lauren Miller
Head of School
SCHOOL NEWS
Coastsider Waves Flag for Peace
Art Installed at City Hall
Half Moon Bay Review. 12/23/20
It took Haley Swem [seventh grader at Sea Crest] nearly half an hour to stitch the word “peace.” When she was done, she had a 10-by-10-inch canvas that read “Unity is peace and peace is thanks.”
The Montara seventh-grader’s art piece was one of the dozens submitted by local kids for a peace flag that now billows outside Half Moon Bay City Hall. Read more.
Thanks to all who participated and submitted their creations! Watch the video below for a compilation of all Sea Crest peace flags.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS
Monday 1/4-Friday 1/8
JK-8 Distance Learning
Students will continue with the same Distance Learning schedule as in December. Details can be found on the class Google sites.
Thursday 1/7
MANDATORY COVID-19 Testing
For ALL students returning to campus next week. Read more.
If you have not signed up yet, please do so here (one testing slot per child). If you have questions, please contact Jacquie Cuvelier.
Friday 1/8 at 12:00 p.m.
MANDATORY Orientation for NEW On-Campus Families
Zoom link sent to parents.
Monday 1/4-Thursday 1/7
Grades 4-8 Executive Function Workshops
Sea Crest is hosting this week a series of workshops to help our students nurture and develop skills, such as time management, organization, perseverance, self-control, focus, task initiation, metacognition, flexible thinking, planning, and working memory.
STARTING ON MONDAY, JANUARY 11TH
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Return to ON-CAMPUS/ Hybrid LearningWe will return to campus on the week of the 11th with a new schedule. Details can be found on the class Google sites. |
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New Schedule ON FRIDAYSLower School: Minimum Day On-Campus/ Hybrid (Grades JK-5) Middle School: Full Academic Distance Learning Day (Grades 6-8) |
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Face Masks Required ON CAMPUSGators are no longer permitted as face coverings |
New COVID-19
Travel/Activity Protocols
If your child(ren) participated in any travel or activities deemed high or highest risk on our chart over winter break must complete this form and will be required to quarantine for 10 days or 7 days with a negative test. Read more.
SAVE THE DATES
Thursday 1/28 at 6:00 p.m. Through Zoom.
Community Open House
Thursday 2/4 at 6:00 p.m. Through Zoom.
State of the School
COVID-19 UPDATE (12.18.20) | MANDATORY TESTING ON JANUARY 7TH & STAY-AT-HOME ORDER
WHAT
All school drive-thru COVID-19 testing. Sea Crest is using Curative testing, it's a saliva collection test that is self (or parent) administered.
WHO
All students returning to campus for in-person instruction in January are required to participate in on-campus COVID-19 testing.
WHEN
Thursday, January 7th, various 15-min time slots are available from 7:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
HOW
- Sign-up for one testing slot per child on Sign-up Genius by Thursday, December 24th. Testing time slots are 15 minutes increments, generally outside of regularly scheduled distance learning school hours to minimize disruption. Please adjust the quantity on the sign-up if you have more than one child to be tested.
- Complete and sign this authorization form and return it to attendance@seacrestschool.org or bring it on the day of testing.
- Watch this video with your child(ren) prior to the testing day so that everyone knows what to expect during testing.
- Look out for an email the week of January 4th that will provide more details about the testing process.
anticipated FAQs
Q: Can my child just quarantine after winter break instead of being tested?
A: No, all students must be tested to come back to campus in January.
Q: What if my child travels or participates in another high-risk activity over break?
A: Please report any travel or other activities deemed high or highest risk on our COVID Travel & Activity Risks chart by completing this form. If your child participates in high-risk travel or activities over the winter break, they need to quarantine according to CDC recommendations: a 7-day quarantine with a negative COVID-19 test. However, timing is important - the test needs to be taken within 48 hours of the end of the 7-day quarantine period. For example, if your child returns from travel via airplane on Sunday 1/3, the quarantine period would expire on Sunday 1/10, however, the COVID-19 test couldn't be administered earlier than 1/8. Therefore, testing provided by Sea Crest on 1/7 wouldn't meet that requirement and families would then be required to coordinate their own testing and provide results to the school. Note, this could delay a student's return to campus on 1/11.
Q: Can parents get tested too?
A: Unfortunately, no. While the testing we provide to our employees as essential workers is free, it is VERY expensive to test non-employees and so we are not able to test anyone that is not a student returning to campus. Curative does conduct weekly testing for free every Monday in Half Moon Bay and we encourage our parents to get tested on a regular basis.
Q: To whom will the test results be sent?
A: Test results will be provided directly to Sea Crest and emailed to the parent who signs the child up for their testing appointment in Sign-up Genius. Sea Crest takes your student's privacy and health information very seriously and will handle all information in accordance with our Policy for Use and Disclosure of Student Information Related to COVID-19, see our Sea Crest Family Handbook Addendum v.2, Appendix E.
Q: What if my child tests positive?
A: As your child will not have been on campus the two weeks leading up to testing, Sea Crest will not notify families of a positive case in our community identified through this round of testing. Our policy for a student's return to campus following a positive COVID-19 test is laid out in our Sea Crest Family Handbook Addendum v.2, Appendix D.
Q: What if I have other questions?
A: Please direct any questions about testing to Jacquie Cuvelier (jcuvelier@seacrestschool.org)
BAY AREA STAY-AT-HOME ORDER
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SUNDAY WAVE (12.20.20) | HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
Thank you
For participating in our Winter & Holiday Traditions Celebration on Thursday. We had a great time learning about family traditions from around the world.
Special thanks
To the Domont, Manzano, Miller, Hanepen, and Patel families for sharing and celebrating their traditions with us, and to Mr. Duplantis for the beautiful sing-along.
Happy Holidays
Peace Flag Project
Squares by Sea Crest Students
Wishing you peace, love, and health,
~Lauren Miller
Head of School
IMPORTANT REMINDERS
Winter Break
New Travel/Activity Protocols
- Students that participate in any travel or activities deemed high or highest risk on our chart over winter break must complete this form and will be required to quarantine for 10 days or 7 days with a negative test. Read more.
JK-8 Distance Learning & Grades 4-8 Executive Function Workshops
- Monday, January 4th - Friday, January 8th
Mandatory COVID-19 Testing on Thursday, January 7th
- For all students returning to campus in January. Please sign up (one testing slot per child) by Thursday, December 24th. Read more.
Starting in January
- Face Masks Required: Gators will no longer be permitted as face coverings.
- Adding Fridays: Lower school will have a minimum day of campus/hybrid learning on Fridays, and Middle school will have a full academic distance learning day on Fridays.
Annual Fund Update
- Thank you very much for your support. We are at 92% participation and have raised over $230K this year. We could not have done it without your help. The matching grant is still available through December. Please consider making your tax-deductible gift now and double the impact. Thank you!
Note: We will not publish the Sunday Wave on December 27th.
We will return on January 4th.
Stay Safe. Stay Healthy. Happy Holidays!
SUNDAY WAVE (12.13.20) | WINTER & HOLIDAY TRADITIONS, NEW COVID-19 PROTOCOLS & SCHEDULE UPDATES
Happy Sunday!
We hope this message finds you happy, healthy, and safe. Please read lots of important information below.
Lauren Miller
Head of School
WINTER & HOLIDAY TRADITIONS CELEBRATION
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17TH, 7:00 PM
Members of our Sea Crest community will be sharing some of their favorite Winter & Holiday Traditions.
Join us to learn more and celebrate with us Christmas, Hanukkah, Diwali, Tio de Nadal, and much more!
Get in your jammies, grab some hot cocoa, and get ready for a good selection of stories and music.
We can’t wait to see you!
NEW COVID-19 PROTOCOLS & SCHEDULE UPDATES
Starting in January
President's Week BreakAt this time, we are expecting we will need to do a similar distance learning week following the break. We will continue to monitor case numbers and trends. Return to Campus SurveyIf you have not let us know your decision for on-campus or distance learning following the winter break, or would like to change your previous submission, please fill out this survey by Friday, December 18th. COMPLETE SURVEY HERE |
UPCOMING EVENTS
This Week
Thu 12/17
Holiday Traditions Celebration
Mon 12/21-Fri 1/1
Winter Break
Mon 1/4-Fri 1/8
JK-8 Distance Learning
PARENT RESOURCES
TechaBee Tech Support
This a friendly reminder that we have partnered with TechaBee, an education technology company, to support our technology program. If your family is having trouble logging in, participating in distance learning, or completing an assignment because of a technology hurdle, our support team is here to help!
>>Please feel free to contact help@techabee.com or (925) 494-2101 if you need anything!
SUNDAY WAVE (12.6.20) | HOLIDAY EVENING, EXECUTIVE FUNCTION WORKSHOPS & SCHOOL NEWS
Happy Sunday!
Thank you for participating in the Peace Flag project and the Adopt-a-Family initiative this year. We adopted 9 families and had the privilege to deliver carloads of items to Coastside Hope this morning thanks to your generosity. This initiative is a true testament to our mission and our community.
We have two weeks of distance learning before winter break. We hope our students are safe at home and able to connect to their academics, classmates and teachers. We invite you to join our Holiday Evening via Zoom on Thursday, December 17th.
More information about our return to campus later this week. Have a wonderful rest of your Sunday!
Stay well, safe and healthy,
Lauren Miller
Head of School
SCHOOL NEWS
Peace Flag Project Squares
Thank you for participating in the Peace Flag Project, uploading your squares to Flipgrid, and dropping them off at the multiple locations in town.
Special thanks to our wonderful room parents who set up the zoom events that gave everyone an opportunity to connect. It was lovely popping in to see you and your children enjoying this community building event.
We will keep you posted on the finished product.
Grades 4-8 Executive Function Workshops | January-February 2021
Executive function skills are important throughout life. When children have had opportunities to develop executive function and self-regulation skills successfully, both individuals and society experience lifelong benefits: school achievement, positive behaviors, good health, and successful work.
Sea Crest is partnering with experts in the field and hosting a series of workshops to help our students nurture and develop skills, such as: time management, organization, perseverance, self-control, focus, task initiation, metacognition, flexible thinking, planning and working memory. More details to come!
UPCOMING EVENTS
Sea Crest Holiday Evening on Thursday, December 17th at 7pm
Join us for a holiday zoom event on December 17th at 7pm. Members of the Sea Crest community will be sharing some of their favorite winter traditions. Get in your jammies and grab some hot cocoa. The link will be shared in the next Sunday Wave. We can’t wait to see you!
Wed 12/2-Fri 12/18
JK-8 Distance Learning
Wed 12/9
Trimester 1 Report Cards Emailed Home
Wed 12/21-Fri 1/1
Winter Break
PARENT RESOURCES
Parent Mental Health Webinar - Monday, December 7th from 5:00-6:15 pm
The San Mateo County Office of Education has partnered with the Peninsula Healthcare District to offer a mental health webinar for parents.
Dr. Shashank Joshi from Stanford will be speaking to parents and the community on the topic of "Mental Health 101: When Should Parents Worry?"
—How can parents support the mental health of children and teens, especially during a pandemic? With rates of anxiety and depression on the rise, many parents wonder: Should I be worried?
Click here for more information and tickets. If you have any questions please contact Ashley McDevitt from the Peninsula Health Care District.
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Connect your Amazon account with Sea Crest at smile.amazon.com/ch/94-3250488 and Amazon will donate to our school a percentage of your purchase, at no cost to you. |
SUNDAY WAVE (11.29.20) | UPCOMING EVENTS, MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPLORATIONS & SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dear Sea Crest Families,
We hope you had a lovely break. We are excited to start Trimester 2 on Wednesday. Thank you for your continued support and partnership.
Stay safe and healthy
Lauren Miller
Head of School
UPCOMING EVENTS
Mon 11/30 - Tue 12/1
Professional Days (No School)
Wed 12/2 - Fri 12/18
JK-8 Distance Learning
Lower School will have a special modified schedule for distance learning in December with a common 9:00 am start for all grades JK-5 to help simplify scheduling for families. Please refer to your child's grade level Google Site on Tuesday 12/1 for the daily class schedule and Zoom links.
Middle School schedule for distance learning is not changing from last trimester. Daily classes also start at 9:00 am.
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Thu 12/3 Since our campus will be closed this week, please make sure all your items are dropped or shipped to arrive at 310 Fairway Drive, Half Moon Bay, by the 3rd. If you haven't signed up yet, please consider to do so by clicking below: JK/2nd Grade |
Tue 12/1 - Mon 12/7 Thank you for participating in this week's Peace Flag Zoom events (links sent by room parents). Please upload your creations to Flipgrid and drop them off by the 7th at one of the available locations (to be announced later this week). More details to come! |
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Wed 12/9 |
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T1 MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPLORATIONS GALLERY
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SUNDAY WAVE (11.22.20) | HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
AT SEA CREST, WE ARE THANKFUL FOR
Our blessings throughout the last few months, our faculty and staff we dearly love, our students who bring meaning to our work each day, and you, parents, who support and partner with us to live out our mission.
We are grateful for our health, that in times when many are falling ill, we are able to be with our families and continue to live out each day.
I am personally grateful for this amazing community that has welcomed me and my family each day of the last six months.
While this Thanksgiving may not look as it has in years past, please remind your children of the blessings that we all have, the work that our school has done this fall to help those in need and give them each an extra hug from us.
Wishing you all a Happy and Healthy Thanksgiving.
Lauren Miller
Head of School
AT SEA CREST, WE GIVE BACK
Another Successful Food DriveWe filled four giant bins with food to help many Coastside families in need this winter! |
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Adopt-a-Family
Items are already arriving. Look for an email from Coach Moore and the middle school leadership students who are organizing this activity.
Peace Flag Project
Supporting Peace through Art and joining millions of individuals around the world with a small contribution. Each student, faculty, and staff member will be designing and creating a square to be added to the peace flag. The squares will be a representation of what peace means to our community. The finished squares will be stitched together with many other contributors and the finished product will be on display at the United Nations.
Look for an email from your room parents with a zoom invitation to create our squares together!
Students Made Thanksgiving Cards for our Senior Neighbors
Supporting Local Businesses
We are looking at ways to support our local businesses during these challenging times. More details to come!
>>> Do you own a local business?
We want to hear from you! Please contact Kerri Conlon at kconlon@seacrestschool.org.
COVID-19 UPDATE: MOVING INTO DISTANCE LEARNING BETWEEN THANKSGIVING AND WINTER BREAK (11.18.20)
Dear Sea Crest Families,
I have been carefully weighing out the risks versus rewards of returning to campus for the 8 planned on-campus days in December. We are seeing case numbers rise in our state, and the holidays bring additional risks to our entire community. It is with a heavy heart that I am sharing with you that we will be moving into distance learning for the school days between the Thanksgiving break and the Winter break. This decision has not been an easy one and I personally received much input from my administration and colleagues that are making similar difficult decisions.
If there is one thing pandemic life has taught me, it is the need to stay informed and be able to make decisions, even difficult ones that meet the moment to best guide our health and safety even when they are incredibly disappointing.
I am personally very sad for my own children. They are new to Sea Crest this year and have found being on campus their way to connect and relate to kids in a new community.
I understand that this change presents a particular challenge to the families that not only depend on Sea Crest for their child's education but also for the vital care that allows parents and guardians to work and make a living. We are dedicated to making a place on campus for those families, whether essential workers or parents of young children, who depend on Sea Crest for this essential care. (Please see more information below)
We have had great success bringing students back to campus safely and this is due in large part to the careful research, consideration, and precautions we have taken as a community matched with our protocols and procedures enforced on campus each day.
While I make this decision with much consideration and a heavy heart, I am reminded that this moment is just a moment and will not last forever. Along with this week's difficult news of COVID surges, came news of hope for the future. News of successful vaccine trials, increased testing, and a seeming clarity of purpose and planning to address this pandemic give us hope for brighter days soon to come.
I hope that taking this important precautionary measure will help to ensure that our community enjoys a safe, happy, and healthy holiday season and a continued safe return to campus in January.
Personally, I want to thank this community that has welcomed me over the last 6 months. I have so appreciated your understanding, cooperation, and support along every step of this challenging year. I wish you a very happy and healthy Thanksgiving.
Lauren Miller
Head of School
FAMILIES WHO NEED CHILD CARE DURING THIS TIME
If having your child(ren) on campus is a necessity for your family (e.g. if both parents’ work must be performed outside the home), please complete the form below and we will do our best to provide an on-campus solution for Monday - Thursday the weeks of December 7th and 14th. We ask that all families that can support their student’s distance learning at home please do so.
SUNDAY WAVE (11.15.20) | TRIMESTER 2 SURVEY, SAFETY OVER THE HOLIDAYS & SCHOOL NEWS
Happy Sunday!
I hope this message finds you well, safe and healthy!
Please watch the two videos below: a brief message with a few important school updates, and a 30-min interview with three of our wonderful doctor moms, who are sharing tips and suggestions to stay healthy and safe during the upcoming holiday season.
Stay safe,
Lauren Miller
Head of School
ACTION REQUIRED FOR ALL SEA CREST FAMILIES:
TRIMESTER 2- CAMPUS OR DISTANCE LEARNING?
Learning Options for Trimester 2 (T2)
1) Return to campus for the full T2 on December 7th (after Thanksgiving break)
2) Return to campus for T2 starting in January 2021 (after winter break)
3) Continue/go to in distance learning for T2 with the opportunity to return to campus for T3 in mid March 2021
Action Required: Commitment Survey
Please take a few minutes to complete this commitment survey by Monday, November 16th. Your input is absolutely critical as we continue our planning for the next trimester. We greatly appreciate it.
Recording of the T2 Campus or Distance Learning Town Hall
If you have questions about T2, please click here to view the slides, watch the town hall recording below, or feel free to reach out. We are looking forward to connecting with you and finding a solution for your family.
SUPPORTING COASTSIDE HOPE
Food Drive
BINS ARE HERE!
Mon 11/16-Thu 11/19
Bring a bag with food this week to support Coastside families in need!
Let’s fill a truck again!! Sending love to our community. @coastsidehope @seacrestschoolhmb
Items Needed:
(Please no canned beans)
• Cereal
• Spaghetti Sauce/Tomato Sauce
• Diced Tomatoes
• Spaghetti Noodles
• Canned Soups/Vegetables
• Macaroni & Cheese
• Peanut Butter/Jam/Jelly
• Oatmeal/Quick Oats (1lb bag or less)
• Bagged/Dry Pinto Beans (2lb bag or less)
• Rice
• Kid Snacks/Granola Bars
Non-Food:
• Feminine Hygiene- Pads
• Diapers- Size 1, 2, 4, 6
Adopt-a-Family
Please be on the lookout for a sign up email from our middle school leadership students who are spearheading this program!
>>> All Adopt-a-Family donations benefit Coastside Hope families. Each grade is assigned a family. These are local coastside families who could use a little help this holiday season. If you are able to contribute at all, they would really appreciate it!
COVID UPDATES & REMINDERS
>>> Complete Travel Self-Reporting Form for any upcoming student travel out of the area
>>> Complete Daily Health Screening for student walking or biking to school without an adult (each day)
>>> Complete Authorization to Leave Campus Form in SchoolAdmin system for students walking or biking from school without an adult (once for the year)
California Travel Advisory and Public Health Guidance Regarding Holiday Gatherings |
On November 13, 2020, in response to alarming increases in the incidence rates of COVID-19 in other countries and states, the California Department of Public Health (“CDPH”) issued a travel advisory to California residents recommending 14-Day self quarantine for any non-essential travel out of state. CDPH also issued a new public health guidance regarding holiday gatherings and higher risk activities. |
>>> FREE COVID Testing in Half Moon Bay
Every Monday, 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Ted Adcock Community Center, 535 Kelly Avenue.
- Swab your own mouth and you’re done!
- Walk-up access
- No insurance necessary, but if you have it, bring your information.
- Registration encouraged, walk-ins welcome.
Click here to register or call 1 (888) 777-1690 between 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., each Tuesday through Saturday. Click here for more information.
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We are looking for a volunteer
to courier COVID test samples to the laboratory in Fremont on Monday, November 30th, leaving campus at 10:30 a.m. If you are available, please contact: jcuvelier@seacrestschool.org.
THANKSGIVING BREAK
Mon 11/23 - Fri 11/27
Thanksgiving Break
No School
Mon 11/30 - Tue 12/1
Professional Days
No School
Wed 12/2 - Fri 12/4
JK-8 Distance Learning
Mon 12/7
Return to JK-8 Hybrid Model
On-Campus & Distance Learning
SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS
Supporting Local Businesses
We are looking at ways to support our local businesses during these challenging times...
>>> Do you own a local business? We want to hear from you! Please contact Kerri Conlon (mom of Colton, 6th grade) at kconlon@seacrestschool.org.
Thank you
to the Esposto Family for helping us install our new tent for the outdoor eating area. We appreciate more than ever having a safe, covered, and weather appropriate space outside for our children to enjoy snack and lunch!
Shop at smile.amazon.com/ch/94-3250488 and Amazon will donate to our school a percentage of your purchase, at no cost to you.
Sea Crest School is a 501(c)(3). You need to connect your Amazon account with Sea Crest School only once, and all your purchases will support our school!
SUNDAY WAVE (11.8.20) | UPCOMING EVENTS, ANNUAL FUND & SCHOOL NEWS
Happy Sunday!
I hope this message finds you well, safe and healthy. Please watch the following video or read below for updates about the annual fund, trimester 2 town hall and return to campus survey, new travel guidelines, and other school announcements.
Thank you for your partnership and stay safe!
All the best,
Lauren Miller
Head of School
Middle School Pick-up Lane Change
Middle School students will be picked up from the inner lane (see map below for your reference) starting tomorrow Monday, November 9th.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Trimester 2 Learning Choices TOWN HALL: Campus or Distance Learning
Thu 11/12
6 p.m.
Zoom link will be emailed to parents this week.
Trimester 2 Learning Choices SURVEY: Campus or Distance Learning
Fri 11/13
Coastside Hope Food Drive
Mon 11/16-Thu 11/19
We are partnering with Coastside Hope and hosting a Food Drive to help Coastside families in need.
Let’s fill a truck again!! Sending love to our community. @coastsidehope @seacrestschoolhmb
Items Needed:
(Please no canned beans)
• Cereal
• Spaghetti Sauce/Tomato Sauce
• Diced Tomatoes
• Spaghetti Noodles
• Canned Soups/Vegetables
• Macaroni & Cheese
• Peanut Butter/Jam/Jelly
• Oatmeal/Quick Oats (1lb bag or less)
• Bagged/Dry Pinto Beans (2lb bag or less)
• Rice
• Kid Snacks/Granola Bars
Non-Food:
• Feminine Hygiene- Pads
• Diapers- Size 1, 2, 4, 6
Mon 11/23 - Fri 11/27
Thanksgiving Break
No School
Mon 11/30 - Tue 12/1
Professional Days
No School
Wed 12/2 - Fri 12/4
JK-8 Distance Learning
Mon 12/7
Return to JK-8 Hybrid Model
On-Campus & Distance Learning
HAVE YOU DONATED TO THE ANNUAL FUND?
yes!
WE ARE AT 76% PARTICIPATION!
Your meaningful gift will impact EVERY Sea Crest student this year!
NO?
WE ARE COUNTING ON YOU!
A donation of $1,100 per student or $110 a month will get us to our goal!
But as always, any amount is appreciated, and all donations help benefit our kids!
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>>> You will receive a car magnet with your pledge AND help your class reach 100% participation! |
SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS
Author Reading Recording |
Head of school, Lauren Miller, with Sea Crest parent and author, David Casentini, as he reads his story: Molly's New Pony, Sir Wallace McGee. A story of courage to be all you can be! |
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS
We are looking for a volunteer to courier COVID test samples to the laboratory in Fremont next Friday, November 13th, leaving campus by 12:30 p.m. If you are available, please contact: jcuvelier@seacrestschool.org.
Crossing Guard Pick-up Volunteers (starting at 2:15 p.m.) If you are interested, please contact: ltarling@seacrestschool.org.
Feedback Survey
We are committed to continuing to gather feedback and adjust as needed.
Currently Accepting Applications for 2021-22
Now Enrolling Siblings!
Please let us know if your family is planning to apply for a sibling. We are looking forward to welcoming another member of our family to our school. Please contact Stephanie Hanepen at admission@seacrestschool.org.
Help us spread the word!
Admission season is in full swing. Please invite your friends, neighbors and family to sign up for a sneak peek or a virtual tour to learn more about our school.
JK-K Sneak Peek
Fri 11/13@9am
Admission Event for New Families: a morning meeting, hands-on activities, and a parent Q&A session. Space is limited: seacrestschool.org/sneakpeek
SUNDAY WAVE (11.1.20) | IMPORTANT WEEK COMING UP, ANNUAL FUND & SCHOOL REMINDERS
Hello Sea Crest Families!
I hope this message finds you happy, healthy, and safe... and that you had a fun Halloween with your families. It was great to see your costumes on Thursday on zoom and in person!
We have a very important week coming up and I have a short story to share with you called "We Disagree". Please watch the following video and read below for school updates and save the dates.
All the best,
~Lauren Miller
Head of School
THANK YOU FOR CELEBRATING HALLOWEEN WITH US!
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Thank you
to the Velyvis, Merrill, Conlon and Morehouse families for the delicious treats for faculty and staff delivered in the past weeks!
HOLIDAY PLANNING
As you plan for the holidays, we want to be sure that everyone understands our school's self-reporting requirements aimed to keep our community safe this year. As a reminder, families are required to self-report travel to another country, state or county where transmission rates are high or increasing.
If your child is traveling over the holidays, please complete this Travel Self-Reporting Google form. In addition, please remember that out-of-town guests in your home also increase your family’s risk of contracting the virus. You are required to self-report any time you have had close contact with someone confirmed COVID-19 positive.
For a detailed description of all of our school’s COVID-19 Protocols, please see our Family Handbook COVID-19 Addendum v.2
UPCOMING EVENTS
Author Reading
Thu 11/5 at 7:00 p.m.
You are invited to join Head of School, Lauren Miller, with Sea Crest parent and author, David Casentini, as he reads his story: Molly's New Pony, Sir Wallace McGee. A story of courage to be all you can be!
Join us via zoom. Link will be sent on Wednesday.
Trimester 2 Campus or Distance Learning Town Hall
Thu 11/12 at 6:00 p.m.
THANKSGIVING BREAK (NO SCHOOL)
Mon 11/23 - Fri 11/27
Thanksgiving Break
No School
Mon 11/30 - Tue 12/1
Professional Days
No School
Wed 12/2 - Fri 12/4
JK-8 Distance Learning
Mon 12/7
Return to JK-8 Hybrid Model
On-Campus & Distance Learning
HAVE YOU DONATED TO THE ANNUAL FUND?
yes!
Your meaningful gift will impact EVERY Sea Crest student this year!
NO?
We are counting on you!
>>> Why do we have an Annual Fund? Click here to learn more.
>>> If you have any questions, please contact Ambar Pina, Director of Advancement.
PARENT RESOURCES
The importance of clean air in classrooms—during the pandemic and beyond.
Click here to read the article by Brown Center Chalkboard. 10/28/2020
SUNDAY WAVE (10.25.20) | SCHOOL UPDATES, UPCOMING EVENTS & ANNUAL FUND
Happy Sunday!
I hope this message finds you well and safe.
Please watch the video or read below for school updates and save the dates.
Stay happy, safe, and healthy!
~Lauren Miller
Head of School
Important Notice: Distance learning students who are unable to attend online classes due to Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) will be excused. Please let us know by calling the school at (650) 712-9892 or emailing attendance@seacrestchool.org.
THANKSGIVING BREAK- SAVE THE DATES
Mon 11/23 - Fri 11/27
Thanksgiving Break
No School
Mon 11/30 - Tue 12/1
Professional Days
No School
Wed 12/2 - Fri 12/4
JK-8 Distance Learning
Mon 12/7
JK-8 Hybrid Model
On-Campus & Distance Learning
A week of distance learning after the Thanksgiving break will support the health and safety of our community by allowing time for (1) all of our staff to be COVID-19 tested and (2) any symptoms to emerge after potential exposure. We will pivot back to our blended model on Monday 12/7. Read more.
As you prepare for this holiday season, we encourage you to review the CDC's guidelines on travel and holiday celebrations. Also, remember our Community Pledge where we've all committed to do our part to mitigate the spread of the virus in our community.
BUSY WEEKEND AROUND CAMPUS
Flu shots, COVID testing, picture days, more preparations to welcome our last grades (7th-8th) back to campus this week and to continue our journey of hybrid learning!
It was great to see families back on campus for picture days on Friday and Saturday, even with masks and physically distanced, we all felt a wonderful sense of community!
UPCOMING EVENTS
6th Grade First Day of Hybrid Learning
Monday, October 19th
Regular Schedule:
Drop-off, 8:40-8:45 am
Pick-up, 3:00-3:10 pm
7th Grade First Day of Hybrid Learning
Monday, October 26th
Regular Schedule:
Drop-off, 8:40-8:45 am
Pick-up, 3:10-3:20 pm
8th Grade First Day of Hybrid Learning
Tuesday, October 27th
Regular Schedule:
Drop-off, 8:40-8:45 am
Pick-up, 3:10-3:20 pm
THANK YOU
Thank you to Bridget Jett (Brandon's mom- 4th grade) and her family for providing the beautiful, locally grown pumpkins for this fun school-wide celebration!
If you are looking for pumpkins to celebrate the season, please consider visiting their farm in Pescadero and picking your own pumpkins directly from they were grown!
Halloween School Celebration
Thursday, October 29th
Costumes:
Students are encouraged to wear costumes to school and during zoom meetings:
- Comfortable to wear all day
- No costume masks that cover the entire face
- No props, weapons or accessories that are not securely attached to the costume
Spooky Stories:
- Special guest storytellers during lunch
- Special recorded stories for distance learners
Pumpkin Decorating Contest:
Each student is receiving a pumpkin at school or delivered to home (distance learners) to decorate this week and post on a school-wide Flipgrid:
- Ideas for pumpkin decorating can be found online
- Pumpkins can be painted/decorated and do NOT have to be carved
- Please say your name and grade when you post your pumpkin
- Student council will choose a winner from each grade from the Flipgrid entries
- Winners will be announced and awarded
Trimester 2 Campus or Distance Learning Town Hall
Thursday, November 12th
Author Reading
Thursday, November 5th at 7:00 p.m.
You are invited to join Head of School, Lauren Miller, with Sea Crest parent and author, David Casentini, as he reads his story: Molly's New Pony, Sir Wallace McGee. A story of courage to be all you can be!
Join us via zoom. Link will be sent in the next Sunday Wave.
ANNUAL FUND- DID YOU KNOW?
1) The Annual Fund helps us balance our budget, fulfill our mission and provide learning options to meet the needs of all of our families. We need your support!
2) You can complete the online pledge now and...
- Donate using a credit card (select one-time payment)
- Set up monthly payments (select recurring payments)
- Pay your pledge later via check (select future pledge on the online form and send a check to Sea Crest School)
3) Where does the money go?
4) Your class and the school needs you to reach...100% participation!
5) Your meaningful gift makes a huge difference for EVERY Sea Crest Student!
>>> Why do we have an Annual Fund? Click here to learn more.
>>> If you have any questions, please contact Ambar Pina, Director of Advancement.
A MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
On behalf of the Sea Crest Board of Trustees, I am pleased to share the Board’s approval of Ms. Miller’s three strategic goals for the 2020-2021 school year. The first goal is to safely open and operate the school throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, be it students in distance learning, on campus or in a hybrid. The second goal is to work with the Senior Leadership Team and Administration team on the structure, functionality and roles that are best suited for Sea Crest today and moving forward. The third goal is to help uncover Sea Crest’s “Why” by identifying who we are, what we do and finally why we do it. This includes taking an overall audit of the school’s programs and curriculum to ensure alignment with Sea Crest’s mission statement.
The Board also defined its own goals for the 2020-2021 school year. First, the Board will support Ms. Miller in meeting her three strategic goals. Second, the Board will evaluate unique financial issues associated with COVID-19, while continuing to identify the resources necessary to ensure long-term financial sustainability. The Board’s third goal is to create a strategic development program to cultivate long-term, sustaining relationships and enhance the culture of philanthropy among Sea Crest’s School’s families. Fourth, the Board will identify authentic methods to increase cultural competency and inclusivity in the school community. The Board’s fifth goal is to update the Master Facilities Plan to align with the school’s sustainability and programmatic strategic objectives. Finally, the Board will continue to develop leadership plans that strengthen the Board of Trustees.
We look forward to collaborating with Ms. Lauren Miller and the Sea Crest School community on this year’s goals in the months ahead. As always, a heartfelt thank you for your collective and enthusiastic support for the amazing community of teachers, administrators, parents and of course, the wonderful students that make up our school.
Wishing you and your family a peaceful and healthy Fall season.
~Tanya Gulesserian
Chair, Sea Crest Board of Trustees
PARENT RESOURCES
What Do I Say? What Do I Do? Parenting Through Election 2020
Online Workshops for Parents and Caregivers
October 29th, 2020
9.30 am & 5:00 pm
The Institute for Social and Emotional Learning (IFSEL) invites you to join for a compassionate session to support you to lead your families peacefully into a tricky time around the election. Find out more and sign up here.
SUNDAY WAVE (10.18.20) | MIDDLE SCHOOL RETURN TO CAMPUS, SAVE THE DATES & ANNUAL FUND
Happy Sunday!
I hope this message finds you well and safe.
For the lower school, this week, we are finally feeling we found a grove with our hybrid learning. We still welcome your feedback, but it is gratifying to once and for all find some routine in this very unpredictable year.
We are looking forward to welcoming some of our 6th graders tomorrow and the rest of middle school next week. Please mark your calendars for the town hall on November 12th for an interactive discussion and important updates regarding Trimester 2. Please know that the Trimester 2 on-campus vs. distance learning survey will be sent out on November 13th.
We have some fun upcoming events to look forward to: picture days, Halloween celebrations for all, and our first speaker series of the year- author and Sea Crest parent David Casentini, an evening for the whole family.
This week, we launched our annual fund. This year, the annual fund is more critical to Sea Crest than ever. Please join the entire faculty/staff and board of trustees in your participation. Your meaningful gift makes a huge difference for every Sea Crest student.
Stay happy, safe, and healthy!
Lauren Miller
Head of School
MIDDLE SCHOOL RETURN TO CAMPUS
Welcome Back!
Sixth graders returned to campus for orientation last Thursday and will have their first full day of hybrid learning tomorrow!
We are looking forward to welcoming 7th and 8th grade on October 26th and 27th respectively.
UPCOMING EVENTS
6th Grade First Day of Hybrid Learning
Monday, October 19th
Regular Schedule:
Drop-off, 8:40-8:45 am
Pick-up, 3:00-3:10 pm
7th Grade First Day of Hybrid Learning
Monday, October 26th
Regular Schedule:
Drop-off, 8:40-8:45 am
Pick-up, 3:10-3:20 pm
8th Grade First Day of Hybrid Learning
Tuesday, October 27th
Regular Schedule:
Drop-off, 8:40-8:45 am
Pick-up, 3:10-3:20 pm
Picture Days
Friday, October 23rd & Saturday, October 24th
- School photos are optional
- Parents or guardians must be present
- Photos will be taken outside and from a distance
- Families must follow our COVID health and safety protocols on campus
- Only students getting the picture taken can momentarily be unmasked
- Siblings can use the same time slot
First come, first served basis.
Halloween School Celebration
Thursday, October 29th
Students are encouraged to wear costumes to school and during zoom meetings:
- Comfortable to wear all day
- No costume masks that cover the entire face
- No props, weapons or accessories that are not securely attached to the costume
Each student will receive a pumpkin at school or delivered to home (distance learners) to decorate the week of Halloween and post on a school-wide Flipgrid.
Student council will choose a winner from each grade. Winners will be announced and awarded.
More details to come!
Trimester 2 Campus or Distance Learning Town Hall
Thursday, November 12th
Author Reading
Thursday, November 5th at 7:00 p.m.
You are invited to join Head of School, Lauren Miller, with Sea Crest parent and author, David Casentini, as he reads his story: Molly's New Pony, Sir Wallace McGee. A story of courage to be all you can be!
Join us via zoom. Link will be sent in the next Sunday Wave.
ANNUAL FUND
Our school tuition does not cover the full cost of a Sea Crest education but keeping tuition as low as possible enables more students to attend our school.
The Sea Crest Annual Fund helps us bridge the gap, balance our budget, fulfill our mission and provide learning options to meet the needs of all of our families.
During these unprecedented times, Sea Crest is showing its ability to thrive and we need your support to continue: giving to the mission, connecting with the moment, and investing in the future.
>>> Why do we have an Annual Fund? Click here to learn more.
>>> If you have any questions, please contact Ambar Pina, Director of Advancement.
PARENT RESOURCES
Taarika Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit mental health organization that focuses on mental health in children and adolescents.
With both their Podcast- "Mindful, Beautiful and Thriving" and their new Youtube channel- "Supporting the Whole Child" (launched on World Mental Health Day- October, 10th 2020), they hope to raise awareness about mental health in children and adolescents.
Leena A. Khanzode MD, is the President of the Taarika Foundation, Director of Silicon Valley Psychiatry, LLC, Adjunct Lecturer, and Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Stanford University.
SUNDAY WAVE (10.11.20) | SCHOOL YEAR REFLECTION, MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATE & SAVE THE DATES
Happy Sunday,
We are rounding out our seventh week of school and there is so much to reflect on: the hurdles that we've overcome, the successes that we've had, the numerous lessons that we learned, the challenges we know will continue to meet us in all the different paths that we're taking, but mostly the hope and optimism as we're seeing a glimmer of routine and normalcy, students learning and teachers connecting. That is really driving us in the work that we do.
We are committed to continuing to getting your feedback. We want to hear from you and we want to make it better. Please know that myself, the administrators, and every faculty and staff member at Sea Crest is working tirelessly day in and day out to create the safest, most engaging, most loving, and most supportive place for all of our children to learn and to connect and to thrive this year.
On that note, please read below all the incredible things that are continuing to happen on campus and in our digital classrooms. This week and going forward we are searching for all of those ways to connect and I appreciate your feedback and your patience.
Wave Message 10.11.20
Please remember to reach out to me with anything that may come up. Thank you for your partnership as we move forward.
Stay happy, safe, and healthy!
Lauren Miller
Head of School
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Our faculty and staff met (virtually) as a group on Friday to continue our work towards bringing your children a year of learning that is meaningful and robust while meeting the needs of the moment. We reflected on our successes and looked forward to the challenges ahead.
Teachers created their goals that align with our institutional theme of “understanding our why” under the theme of thriving not just surviving during this challenging year. We continued our work on articulating our curriculum alignment in each subject area from grades JK-8 and are excited to share out more details on this progress in the coming months. We know that professional development days are time spent away from our students. We take that seriously and are committed to using that time to further our mission of the school.
MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATES
Middle School Parent Teacher Conferences
Thursday, October 15th-Friday, October 16th
A wonderful opportunity to meet with your child's teachers and share feedback about how the year has started. Conferences will be a 10-minute zoom meeting with your child's core teachers. Sign-ups will be emailed on Monday, October 12th at noon.
Return to Campus
We are excited to move forward with our Hybrid Learning Model in Middle School. We are staggering the return to campus beginning with 6th grade.
6th Grade In-Person Learning Orientation
Thursday, October 15th
Drop off, 8:40-8:45 am
Pick-up, 11:30 am
(Asynchronous day for 6th-grade distance learning students)
Distance Learning Town Hall for All Middle School Families
Thursday, October 15th
6:00-7:00 pm
6th Grade First Day of Hybrid Learning
Monday, October 19th
Regular Schedule:
Drop-off, 8:40-8:45 am
Pick-up, 3:00-3:10 pm
SAVE THE DATES
Picture Days
Friday, October 23rd & Saturday, October 24th
School photos, which are optional this year, will be taken on campus. Parents must be present and assist their children. Sign-ups will be emailed next Friday, October 16th at noon.
Halloween School Celebration
Thursday, October 29th
Students are encouraged to wear costumes to school and during zoom meetings:
- Comfortable to wear all day
- No costume masks that cover the entire face
- No props, weapons or accessories that are not securely attached to the costume
Each student will receive a pumpkin at school or delivered to home (distance learners) to decorate the week of Halloween and post on a school-wide Flipgrid.
Student council will choose a winner from each grade. Winners will be announced and awarded.
More details to come!
Author Reading
Thursday, November 5th at 7:00 p.m.
You are invited to join Head of School, Lauren Miller, with Sea Crest parent and author, David Casentini, as he reads his story: Molly's New Pony, Sir Wallace McGee. A story of courage to be all you can be!
Join us via zoom. Link will be sent in the next Sunday Wave.
SCHOOL BULLETIN
Feedback Survey
We are committed to continuing to gather feedback and adjust as needed.
Many thanks
to the Parent Association Board (PAB) for sending in delicious treats and coffee to our faculty and staff last week. Special thanks to Bridget, Kristina and Irene for organizing this special surprise!
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS
We are looking for a volunteer to courier COVID test samples to the laboratory in Fremont next Friday, October 23rd, leaving campus by 12:30 p.m. If you are available, please contact: jcuvelier@seacrestschool.org.
SUNDAY WAVE (10.4.20) | COVID ABSENCE PROTOCOLS, SCHOOL SURVEYS & REMINDERS
Happy Sunday,
I hope you are having a lovely weekend. There are many important news and announcements in this Sunday Wave. Please read carefully the details below.
Once again, thank you for your flexibility and partnership during this challenging school year.
Stay happy, safe, and healthy!
Lauren Miller
Head of School
COVID ABSENCE PROTOCOL UPDATES
Reporting Student Absences
Parents must notify the school of student absence as early as possible by emailing attendance@seacrestschool.org or leaving a voicemail at 650-712-9892 x200. If a student is experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, has had a positive COVID-19 test result, or known COVID-19 exposure, they are required to quarantine at home and may not return to school for at least 10 days. See Family Handbook COVID-19 Addendum v.2 Appendix D for detailed Return to School requirements depending on the individual circumstances.
The first day they are off-campus will be treated like a regular school sick day. Beginning the second day of the quarantine, if the student feels well enough to attend school virtually, they are able to shift to Distance Learning.
Non-Quarantine Absences
Students that have elected to participate in on-campus learning may not participate in Distance Learning except in the case of quarantine. Non-quarantine absences (e.g. for vacation) will be treated like they would during a normal school year where a student misses class and may receive assignments for missed work from their teacher.
NEW LOWER SCHOOL SCHEDULE STARTING MONDAY, OCTOBER 5TH
New On-Campus Schedule
*Note: This schedule takes into consideration the possibility of the middle school returning to campus in mid-to-late October.
Distance Learning Schedule Updates
Please look at the slide deck on your Google Site for any grade-level adjusted start times.
Thank you for your partnership as we continue to navigate these uncertain times.
ACTION REQUIRED: IMPORTANT SURVEYS
Middle School Campus Reopening Plan & Commitment Survey
As we continue our planning for the possibility of the middle school returning to campus in mid-to-late October, please complete the survey below by Tuesday, October 6th.
MIDDLE SCHOOL RETURN-TO-CAMPUS SURVEY
Lower School Feedback Surveys
lower school distance learning feedback survey
Getting a flu shot this fall is more important than ever to protect yourself, your family and our community!
A flu shot can reduce your risk of getting flu and help save scarce medical resources needed to care for people with COVID-19. It’s important for everyone to do their part to stay healthy this flu season
MAP Growth Assessment Town Hall Recording
(Grades 3-8)
Air Quality Index (AQI) Policy Reminder (COVID) |
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Sea Crest School is using Purple Air website to monitor the AQI (Air Quality Index) when it reaches or is predicted to reach over 130 AQI. Read more. School administration will make a call for school closure by 7:00 a.m. for the day. Parents will be notified via the emergency alert system. Please reply to this email if you are not receiving our emergency alerts or need to update your emergency information. |
SUNDAY WAVE (9.27.20) | SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING, SPIRIT WEEK & SCHOOL UPDATES
Happy Sunday,
Please watch the following video or read below for school updates and highlights as we continue to provide as many choices of learning as possible this school year.
Stay happy, safe, and healthy!
Lauren Miller
Head of School
SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING (SEL)
SEPTEMBER FOCUS: BUILDING COMMUNITY
Lower School
Getting to Know Each Other
Reading stories...
Exploring essential questions...
How can I have a growth mindset at school?
Making connections...
Establishing community norms...
Next month the focus will shift to exploring emotions and self-awareness with an emphasis on recognizing our feelings and developing strategies to regulate and calm down/cool-off when needed.
Middle School
What's Behind My Mask
We drew and described ourselves with a focus on our positive attributes. After we finished drawing and writing, we got to color together, which led to amazing social time and great conversations about life issues, food, social justice, and how much we miss each other!
BACK-TO-SCHOOL NIGHT RECORDINGS
Thank you for attending last week's Back-to-School Night events! We hope that you enjoyed the opportunity to connect with your teachers and hear more about the learning journey your child will embark on this school year.
Teachers are posting the slides and recording of their presentations on the class Google Site for your reference.
Thank you for your partnership for a successful school year!
UPCOMING EVENTS
All-School Spirit Week
September 28th-October 2nd
- Crazy Hair Day (Monday)
- Wear Your Favorite Mask (Tuesday)
- Bring Picture of Your Pet (Wednesday)
- Dress Up Fancy (Thursday)
- Wear School Swag (Friday)
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MAP Testing Town Hall Thursday, October 1st6:30 p.m. Zoom link will be emailed to parents. |
SCHOOL BULLETIN
Getting a flu shot this fall is more important than ever to protect yourself, your family and our community!
A flu shot can reduce your risk of getting flu and help save scarce medical resources needed to care for people with COVID-19. It’s important for everyone to do their part to stay healthy this flu season
We are looking for parent volunteers to periodically courier COVID test samples to a laboratory in Fremont. First opportunity will be next Friday, October 2nd, leaving campus by 12:30 p.m. If you are available, please contact: jcuvelier@seacrestschool.org.
SUNDAY WAVE (9.20.20) | COVID PROTOCOL UPDATES, HYBRID LEARNING & BACK-TO-SCHOOL NIGHT
Happy Sunday,
Please see below for important updates on campus protocols, our recently launched hybrid learning model, and back-to-school night reminders.
We are looking forward to connecting with you this week.
Stay safe,
Lauren Miller
Head of School
COVID CAMPUS PROTOCOL UPDATES
New Parking Lot Procedures
- Drop-off: Use either lane. For safety, we recommend:
- Outer lane (close to curb) if the child is on driver's side of the car
- Inner lane if the child is on passenger's side of the car
- Pick-up: Use only assigned grade lane:
- Outer lane: JK / 1 / 3 / 5
- Inner lane: K / 2 / 4
- One parent must assist the child to safely get out of the car and gather their belongings.
- When ready, the child and parent will be directed to stand on an outdoor marker for the wellness check (symptom inquiry, touch-free temperature and face covering check).
General Reminders
- The driver and all passengers in the car (over 2 years old) must wear masks during drop-off and pick-up.
- Display your family placard on the passenger-side dashboard.
- Only arrive during scheduled windows. Please wait off campus in the case of early arrival.
- Obey traffic laws on the street
- when turning left into the parking lot, always yield to oncoming traffic (including parents that have just exited our parking lot from the other gate)
- when exiting the parking lot, be sure to look out for pedestrians on the sidewalk.
Attendance
To report absences, please contact the school's email address
attendance@seacrestschool.org or call 650-712-9892 x200. Please do not email teachers.
~Thank you for your partnership!
DISTANCE LEARNING FEEDBACK
Many thanks to the families who recently completed our distance learning survey. We greatly value your feedback as we continue to fine-tune our programs. On a scale from 1 (Poor) to 5 (Excellent), here is a summary of the results:
Lower School:
- Overall Positive Experience: 84% rated the general distance learning program positively (4- good or 5- excellent)
- Working Well: Communication & Learning/Instruction
- Areas of Opportunity: Schedule, Workload & Technology/Accessibility
Middle School:
- Overall Very Positive Experience: 97% rated the general distance learning program positively (4- good or 5- excellent). Note: No aspects of the survey were rated 1-poor)
- Working Well: Technology/ Accessibility & Learning/ Instruction
- Areas of Opportunity: Workload, Schedule & Technology (some aspects)
This week, on Back-to-school Night your family will have the opportunity to connect with our division directors and teachers to learn more about our programs moving forward. We look forward to virtually seeing you this week!
UPCOMING EVENTS
This Week
3-5 In-Person Learning Orientation (1/2 Day)
Monday, September 21st
This Week
3-5 Distance Learning Orientation
Monday, September 21st
Zoom link emailed to parents.
2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
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Tuesday, September 22nd JK-2 Hybrid Learning
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Middle School Back-to-School Night
Tuesday, September 22nd
6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
(Zoom link will be emailed to parents)
Lower School Back-to-School Night
Thursday, September 24th
6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
(Zoom link will be emailed to parents)
SUNDAY WAVE (9.13.20) | SCHOOL UPDATES & MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPLORATIONS
Happy Sunday,
I hope you all are doing well and staying safe. The air quality on top of the pandemic adds a layer of stress and anxiety to all. Please remember to find moments of joy with your kids as we all navigate the ever changing unknowns.
I met with the Board of Trustees on Saturday for our annual retreat. It was fulfilling and inspiring to work together on the goals of the school and the future endeavors. I am excited to share more details in the coming months.
Today, I made the decision to close campus tomorrow (9/14) due to the ongoing poor air quality in our community. Tomorrow will be our regularly scheduled distance learning. Please see reopening adjustments below. These decisions are hard to make, but the health and safety for all is and will remain my top priority.
Please join me in sending our love and prayers to our neighbors as they battle the fires.
Stay safe,
Lauren Miller
Head of School
SCHOOL NEWS
TechaBee Tech Support
Powered by Beehively
We have partnered with TechaBee, an education technology company, to support our technology program. Read more.
If your student is having trouble to log in, participate in online learning, or complete an assignment because of a technology hurdle, our support team is here to help!
Please feel free to contact help@techabee.com or (925) 494-2101 if you need anything!
Air Quality Index (AQI) & Blackout Power Outage Policies (COVID) |
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Sea Crest School is using Purple Air website to monitor the AQI (Air Quality Index) when it reaches or is predicted to reach over 130 AQI. Read more. School administration will make a call for school closure by 7:00 a.m. for the day. Parents will be notified via the emergency alert system. |
Music Program
We are excited to announce our new Music Teacher, Kirk Duplantis.
Mr. Duplantis has over a decade of experience teaching music to children and has a passion for music education and the impact it can have on a student's life.
Mr. Duplantis will be teaching lower school in Trimester 1 and middle school starting in Trimester 2.
Emergency Alerts
Sea Crest School uses Alma Student Information System (SIS) to send emergency alerts via email and automated phone call or text.
Please look for an email from Alma next week to activate your account, confirm or update your contact information, and select your notification preferences, including SMS alerts.
LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS REOPENING
Town Hall Recording
Reopening Final Preparations
Thank you for your partnership!
This Week
K-2 In-Person Learning Orientation
Rescheduled for
Tuesday, September 15th
1/2 Day
Next Week
3-5 In-Person Learning Orientation
Monday, September 21st
1/2 Day
LOWER SCHOOL DISTANCE LEARNING
This Week
K-2 Distance Learning Orientation Rescheduled for
Tuesday, September 15th
Zoom link emailed to parents.
2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Next Week
3-5 Distance Learning Orientation
Monday, September 21st
Zoom link emailed to parents.
2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPLORATIONS
Middle School students have been busy delving deep, learning new skills and brainstorming ideas as part of the Middle School Explorations.
Photography Class
Laces_ by Chloe
Laces_ by Chloe
Explorations classes this trimester include: Cooking, Fitness, Social Media studies, Geocaching, Nature Journaling, Women Studies, Coding, Service Learning and Photography.
Each Friday in the Middle School Community Share Out Assembly, each exploration class shares what they have been learning with the whole of the Middle School.
Middle School Community Meeting
Middle School Share Out
Remembering 9/11_ by Julia
Photography Class
Danger Dog_ by Zander
Danger Dog_ by Zander
Cooking Class
Peanut Butter Brownies_ by Addison
Peanut Butter Brownies_ by Addison
Nature Journaling
Observing a Plant at Close Range_ by Caroline
Observing a Plant at Close Range_ by Caroline
BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHTS COMING UP
Middle School Back-to-School Night
Tuesday, September 22nd
6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
(Zoom link will be emailed to parents)
Lower School Back-to-School Night
Thursday, September 24th
6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
(Zoom link will be emailed to parents)
A MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
The Board of Trustees is pleased to introduce new board members, Graciela Krabbenschmidt, Keith Holden and Kerri Conlon. Graciela is an educator, has worked with migrant students and under-served families for 20 years and is a parent of three alumni, Gabriel, Jonathan and Christopher. Keith has worked in Special Education for over 20 years, is Head Varsity Football Coach at Half Moon Bay High School and is parent of Paxton (5th grade) and Addison (8th grade). Kerri has 20 years of event management experience, is actively involved in various local charitable organizations and is a parent of Colton (6th grade). We also welcome new officer, Karin Manuele, as Chair of Head Support and Evaluation Committee, and we are honored that Jim Bartel will continue on the Board as Trustee Emeritus.
The Board held its annual retreat this weekend and established five major goals for the year in the following areas:
- Cultural Competency and Inclusion
- Cultivating Long-Term Sustaining Relationships with Families
- Enhancing the Culture of Philanthropy
- Ensuring a Strategic Financial Plan and Master Facilities Plan
- Identifying Resources Necessary to Support Our Head of School
We look forward to continuing our work to define the long-term vision for the school and to ensure its financial sustainability in collaboration with Lauren Miller as our new Head of School.
Tanya Gulesserian
Chair, Sea Crest Board of Trustees
PARENT RESOURCES
Free Webinar:
Supporting Your Smart & Struggling Student through Distance Learning
by Parents Place, JFCS' Center for Children and Youth
Wednesday, September 23rd
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
AIR QUALITY INDEX (AQI) & BLACKOUT POWER OUTAGE POLICIES (COVID) | (9.9.20)
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SUNDAY WAVE (9.6.20) | WAIVER APPROVED, REOPENING CALENDAR & FEEDBACK
We are happy to announce that our waiver to provide in-person instruction was approved by San Mateo County on September 3rd. Sea Crest will be joining an ever growing list of schools that have gone through the rigorous process of planning for a safe school reopening, following the many procedures and protocols as outlined by the CDC, State of California and County of San Mateo.
Providing as many safe options for students and parents this year is our goal. We are happy to be able to provide the 76% of families that have chosen to return to school a safe place to do so, while providing the other 24% the ability to stay in distance learning. It is no easy feat to adapt and adjust our schedules, programs, and access to your teachers, but we are committed to work hard each day to meet the needs of our students and the moment. Thank you to everyone in our community for the flexibility and support as we navigate this challenging academic school year.
At this time, the lower school will be transitioning into our hybrid model of learning. Families who have opted to learn on campus Monday-Thursday will begin on the following 9/14 K-2, 9/21 3-5th. Please note that JK students will continue to learn on-campus Monday-Thursday and Middle School will continue in distance learning at this time.
Learn more about our Campus Reopening Plan here.
As promised we have included a survey below to get feedback on the start of the year for all grades. Please take a moment to fill it out.
I hope everyone is having a safe and restful holiday weekend.
Best,
~Lauren Miller, Head of School
LOWER SCHOOL REOPENING CALENDAR & MODIFIED SCHEDULE
ALL-SCHOOL DISTANCE LEARNING FEEDBACK
Please use the survey below to share your feedback, questions or comments about distance learning during the first two weeks of school. We greatly appreciate your feedback.
SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK HERE
We need volunteers to help us cover crossing guard and recess duties! As we transition into our hybrid model and modified in-person schedule, we are managing a significantly increased number of small, physically distanced cohorts and need your help. Volunteers will be trained and COVID tested.
There are other volunteer opportunities. Please email communications@seacrestschool.org if you would like to help.
Lower School Reopening Town Hall
Thursday, September 10th
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
(Zoom link will be emailed to parents)
Michelle Giacotto and Lauren Miller will be answering your questions about our transition to the hybrid model and logistic considerations for the upcoming weeks.
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Warmest THANKS to our wonderful parents who are sending in treats, presents and notes to our dedicated faculty and staff working on campus. We are immensely grateful for your kindness and support! |
BACK-TO-SCHOOL NIGHTS POSTPONED TWO WEEKS
DUE TO HYBRID MODEL TRANSITION
Middle School Back-to-School Night
Tuesday, September 22nd
6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
(Zoom link will be emailed to parents)
Lower School Back-to-School Night
Thursday, September 24th
6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
(Zoom link will be emailed to parents)
WAIVER APPROVED | TRANSITION TO HYBRID LEARNING MODEL IN THE LOWER SCHOOL
Yesterday, September 3rd, Sea Crest School’s application for a waiver to provide in-person instruction was approved by San Mateo County. As you know the waiver process and reopening plan were both highly detailed and required the school to demonstrate its ability to uphold the "Four Pillars" for a safe return to campus.
The waiver approval means that we will be able to transition to a hybrid model of learning in the lower school. We will stagger the start dates for the different grade level divisions to allow for a safe and smooth transition for students.
Students who have opted to learn on campus Monday-Thursday will begin on the following dates:
Monday, Sept 14th- Students in K-2nd grade
Monday, Sept 21st- Students in 3rd-5th grade
Please note that Junior Kindergarten students will continue to learn on campus Monday-Thursday and Middle School students, as mandated by the State of California's monitoring list, will remain in distance learning throughout this transition.
Faculty and Staff are meeting today to finalize our return to campus planning. Please read this week's Sunday Wave for next steps and important details. The Sunday Wave will also contain our first back to school survey to collect feedback on distance learning. We ask that you save any feedback, questions, and suggestions to include in the survey.
Have a wonderful and safe holiday weekend! Please remember to practice social distancing and wear a mask.
Sincerely,
Lauren Miller
Head of School
SUNDAY WAVE (8.30.20) | BACK-TO-SCHOOL UPDATES & BUILDING COMMUNITY
Thank you for your partnership this school year and for joining our coffee on the first day of school. If you were unable to attend, you can watch the video above or view the slides here. Happy new school year!
~Lauren Miller, Head of School
Student Council welcomes our community to the 2020-2021 school year with a first day of school skit, interviews with Mrs. Miller, and a class roll call cheer challenge!
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Thank you for your generosity! Together, we filled a truck with food for coastside families in need. We will always be grateful. What a fantastic way to start the school year! |
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Faculty and staff enjoyed welcoming your children back to school this week. We hope that they were as excited to see their teachers and friends as we were to see them! |
LOWER SCHOOL UPDATES
Revised distance learning schedule that prioritizes core learning time and small group instruction while allowing students to have the same lunch break and similar start/ end times to the day. We hope this will be helpful for multiple sibling families and those working together in small learning pods. Read more.
Our waiver application has been submitted and has received very positive feedback from the San Mateo County Office of Education. After official approval, our most optimistic timeline for a gradual return to campus would be mid-September. Our plans depend greatly on having an accurate count of the K-5 students who will be learning on campus. Please take a moment to complete the survey by Monday, August 31st.
UPCOMING EVENTS: *NEW DATES*
BACK-TO-SCHOOL NIGHTS
Middle School Back-to-School Night
Tuesday, September 8th
6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Lower School Back-to-School Night
Thursday, September 10th
6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
COMMUNITY NEWS
Coastal Repertory Theatre for Kids & Adults. Fall registration is open. Classes begin September 1st, 2020. All classes are online via Zoom. Click here to register.
Peninsula Girls Chorus Coastside will be singing together from home. Fall registration is open for girls in grades 3-5 who love to sing. Rehearsals will be held online via Zoom. Wednesdays, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Starting Wednesday, September 16th, 2020. Click to register.
SUNDAY WAVE (8.23.20) | BACK-TO-SCHOOL REMINDERS & SCHOOL NEWS
Dear Sea Crest Families,
Our thoughts and prayers are with our families and members of the Coastside community that are currently being impacted by the fires.
Our intent is to continue our schedule for this week. Please let us know if your family is unable to pick up materials or need particular accommodations moving forward. We will be more than happy to work with you and make arrangements as needed.
Please stay safe and don't hesitate to reach out if we can be of any help. Moments like this define our close-knit community. "We are each other's keepers."
All the best,
Lauren Miller
Head of School
"Your home: Sea Crest School"
In this challenging year, remember we are here just as our teachers were for us.
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~Your Faculty & Staff
"Ain't No Mountain High Enough"
No matter how far we may seem, we will get to you... our students.
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~Your Faculty & Staff
BRING A BAG, GET A BAG
Monday, August 24th
Kindergarten-1st Grade
9-11am
2nd-3rd Grade
11am-1pm
4th-5th Grade
1-3pm
6th-8th Grade
3-5pm
We are partnering with Coastside Hope and hosting a Food Drive tomorrow Monday. When you pick-up your school supplies, please bring a bag of food for a Coastside family in need. |
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Let’s fill this Truck!! Sending love to our community. @coastsidehope @seacrestschoolhmb |
Items needed:
*Please no canned beans
-Cereal
-Spaghetti sauce
-Tomato sauce
-Spaghetti noodles
-Diced tomatoes
-Chunky soups (i.e. Progresso)
-Mixed canned vegetables
-Macaroni & cheese
-Peanut butter
-Oatmeal/quick oats
-Bagged/dry pinto beans
-Rice
-Kid snacks (i.e. fruit snacks)
-Granola bars
Non-Food Items:
-Feminine hygiene pads
-Diapers (size 6)
If you are looking for a place to donate to those impacted by the fires, please consider the Coastside Crisis Fund.
Thank you in advance. Now more than ever our Coastside community can use our support.
BACK-TO-SCHOOL ORIENTATION
TUESDAY, AUGUST 25TH
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26TH
Back-to-School Coffee with Lauren
Parents @ 9:15 am
Zoom Link will be sent on Tuesday
Sharing Exciting News!
Warmest congratulations to Joanna, Mrs CW, on the birth of her sweet baby girl, Riley. So many happy and wonder-filled times ahead for her!
If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to us at communications@seacrestschool.org.
Thank you for being a vital part of our community!