December 17, 2024

E-News

Dear Orchard Families,

Happy Holidays! 

  • Please be sure to check the lost and found tables under the awning on Thursday and Friday! Anything left will be donated on Friday after dismissal. 

  • SING-A-LONG information: While welcoming our Orchard community to the sing-a-long is a favorite Orchard tradition, our growing Orchard family calls for some adjustments. 

    • Please limit attendees to 2 per family.

    • We will again use the cafetorium as a dedicated overflow space with a live stream, viewable only within Orchard School to respect privacy. 

  • School will be closed 12/23-1/1. See you next year!


Virtual Backpack

How to report an absence or tardy

Principal’s Corner:

December comes into focus as Mrs. Ferreri reflects on celebrating the end of a successful marking period. We can all look forward to a promising new year filled with growth and perseverance.

Notes from the Nurse:

To prevent the spread of illness, keep your child home from school if they have cold, flu, or stomach bug symptoms. Please follow the guidelines provided by Nurse Caruso.

Orchard School Happenings: 

Orchard’s Got Talent

Get ready to shine, Orchard! The Annual Talent Show is back on Friday, February 28th. Mark your calendars: the registration deadline is January 17th. All stars, future performers, and their biggest fans are invited! Find all the details and deadlines on the Talent Show flyer. Let's make this year's show the most amazing one yet!

Artsonia

This holiday season, give your child a gift of creativity! Order personalized mugs, t-shirts, and more through Arstonia, featuring your child's artwork. 20% of each purchase supports Ms. Chicas and our art studio. Give unique gifts and support our school's art program. Order your personalized items today and celebrate the creativity in our art studio!

Bingo Night Save the Date

Mark your calendars for Bingo Night on January 24th. More details to come!

Frozen Kids

A magical adventure awaits! Join the Frozen Kids cast and shine on stage. Auditions are Monday, Feb. 3rd after school. Grades 3-5. Register with Curtain Up Studios.

Friends of Orchard Fundraising Campaign

It is once again time to humbly ask for your support for the “Friends of Orchard” Fundraising Campaign. As you may know, this is the largest and most critical fundraiser Orchard holds during a non-auction year. We encourage all Orchard families to consider donating; truly, no donation is too small. Please see the attached letter with more details and information on how to donate.

Yearbooks and Memory Books

The Orchard Yearbook celebrates our entire school community, showcasing each grade level. Purchase your copy each spring for June delivery. Proceeds support our HSA. Please upload your pics to the grade level links all year long.  For questions contact the yearbook committee

The 5th Grade Memory Book is a special keepsake for our graduating class. It showcases photos from their time at Orchard and is a gift from the school, funded by 5th-grade fundraising efforts. Each 5th grader will receive a copy. The Memory Book Committee will soon share private photo album links with 5th-grade parents only.

TIPS TO GET YOUR CHILD’S PHOTOS FEATURED

Meet Your SEPAG Representative for Orchard Elementary

Mike Mase is the Ridgewood SEPAG (Special Education Parent Advisory Group) representative for Orchard Elementary. SEPAG supports families of students with special education needs by advocating and providing resources. If you have questions or need assistance, you can reach Mike Mase. Subscribe today for SEPAG newsletters and events to stay informed. 

Gratitude Corner:

A heartfelt thank you to Amy Dishuk and Heather Madigan for planning a delightful Mom's Night Out event last week at Lulu + Bo Boutique! We also extend our deepest gratitude to Bunny Cooper and Michelle MacDonald for organizing a fantastic holiday luncheon for Orchard's dedicated staff. This annual celebration is always a highlight, and it's a wonderful way to show our appreciation. As the holiday season approaches, the HSA would like to express their sincere thanks to all of the class parents for their efforts in organizing teacher/staff gifts. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who contributed to this thoughtful gesture.

Looking Ahead:

12/20 - Holiday Sing-Along

12/23-1/1 - School Closed

1/3 - Talent Show Parent Meeting

1/16 - HSA Meeting

1/17 - Talent Show Registration Deadline

1/20 - School Closed/MLK Day

1/23 - Spirit Day

1/24 - Bingo Night

1/29 - School Closed/Lunar New Year


December 10, 2024

E-News

Dear Orchard Families,

Happy Tuesday! 

  • Orchard Spirit Day is this Thursday!

  • Way to go, Orchard! Together, we raised $1,159.23 in the Coin Drive to support our community. High-five!

December Lunch Menu

Virtual Backpack

How to report an absence or tardy

Notes from the Nurse:

To prevent the spread of illness, keep your child home from school if they have cold, flu, or stomach bug symptoms. Please follow the guidelines provided by Nurse Caruso.

Tech Corner:

Computer Science Education Week celebrates Admiral Grace Hopper and promotes coding through "The Hour of Code." This accessible event encourages kids to learn problem-solving and critical thinking skills. This month, we'll highlight coding platforms designed for children.

Orchard School Happenings: 

Teachers’ Holiday Luncheon 

Volunteers needed! Please join us to volunteer on Friday, December 13th to either help clean up or by donating items. Thank you in advance to everyone who already donated and/or signed up. We couldn't spread holiday cheer and show appreciation for our wonderful teachers and staff without you! Reach out to Michelle Macdonald or Bunny Cooper with any questions. 

Friends of Orchard Fundraising Campaign

It is once again time to humbly ask for your support for the “Friends of Orchard” Fundraising Campaign. As you may know, this is the largest and most critical fundraiser Orchard holds during a non-auction year. We encourage all Orchard families to consider donating; truly, no donation is too small. Please read the letter from our HSA Presidents with more details and information on how to donate.

Ladies Night Out

Join us Wednesday night, 12/11, for a fun-filled evening of shopping and socializing at LULU + BO, a chic new boutique in Midland Park. This exclusive event is just for Orchard moms! Owned by local Ridgewood sisters, Miriam and Erica, LULU + BO offers a unique blend of luxury and boho style, featuring trendy women's apparel, stunning jewelry, and thoughtful gifts. Contact Amy Dishuk or Heather Madigan with questions.

Orchard’s Got Talent

Calling all parents of potential performers and crew members! Join us for a quick but crucial Parent Information Meeting on January 3, 3:00 PM—3:20 PM in the gym. Ms. Chicas will cover everything you need to know: general show info, available positions, and Q&A. Don't miss this chance to get in the loop! We'll keep it short and sweet, but this meeting is packed with information you won't want to miss!

School Play Announcement

A magical adventure awaits! Join the Frozen Kids cast and shine on stage. Auditions are Monday, Feb. 3rd after school. Grades 3-5. Register with Curtain Up Studios.

Bingo Night Save the Date

Mark your calendars for Bingo Night on January 24th. More details to come!

Meet Your SEPAG Representative for Orchard Elementary

Mike Mase is the Ridgewood SEPAG (Special Education Parent Advisory Group) representative for Orchard Elementary. SEPAG supports families of students with special education needs by advocating and providing resources. If you have questions or need assistance, you can reach Mike Mase. Subscribe today for SEPAG newsletters and events to stay informed. 

Yearbooks and Memory Books

The Orchard Yearbook celebrates our entire school community, showcasing each grade level. Purchase your copy each spring for June delivery. Proceeds support our HSA. Please upload your pics to the grade level links all year long.  For questions contact the yearbook committee

The 5th Grade Memory Book is a special keepsake for our graduating class. It showcases photos from their time at Orchard and is a gift from the school, funded by 5th-grade fundraising efforts. Each 5th grader will receive a copy. The Memory Book Committee will soon share private photo album links with 5th-grade parents only.

TIPS TO GET YOUR CHILD’S PHOTOS FEATURED

Looking Ahead:

12/11 - Ladies Night Out

12/13 - Teacher Appreciation Holiday Luncheon

12/20 - Holiday Sing-Along

12/23-1/1 - School Closed

1/3 - Talent Show Parent Meeting

1/16 - HSA Meeting

1/17 - Talent Show Registration Deadline

1/24 - Bingo Night


December 3, 2024

E-News

Dear Orchard Families,

Happy Giving Tuesday! 

  • The theme of the month is patience. The Magical Yet, by Angela DeTerlizzi, is available to read on our Storywalk by the big playground. 

  • Turkey Trot Update: we are proud to share that Orchard raised $2,750 for SSA of Ridgewood! Thank you to all who donated and to the students for giving it their all during the Turkey Trot! 

December Lunch Menu

Virtual Backpack

How to report an absence or tardy

Counselors Corner:

Second Step Elementary teaches social-emotional skills like growth mindset, goal-setting, and empathy to all students. This helps them develop skills to be used both in and out of school. Read more about it in this one-sheet provided by Mrs. Rubin.

Orchard School Happenings: 

Reminder | International Academic Competitions (IAC)

Families of students in grades 4 through 8 should received this letter yesterday about the second annual IAC History, Science, and Geography Bees. If your child is interested in participating in one, two, or all three Bees, please remember to register before December 9th.

Orchard Gives Back/Coin Drive & Food Drive

Change for change! Help us fill the collection bins all week long with spare change and non-perishable food items. Let's make this holiday season brighter for those in need! All proceeds benefit the Social Service Association of Ridgewood and Vicinity.

Friends of Orchard Fundraising Campaign

It is once again time to humbly ask for your support for the “Friends of Orchard” Fundraising Campaign. As you may know, this is the largest and most critical fundraiser Orchard holds during a non-auction year. We encourage all Orchard families to consider donating; truly, no donation is too small. Please see the attached letter with more details and information on how to donate.

Teachers’ Holiday Luncheon 

Help us make this holiday season extra special for our teachers and staff at Orchard! The annual Holiday Luncheon is coming up on Friday, December 13th, and we need your support to make it a memorable event. Your donation will go towards a festive meal, beautiful decorations, and a thoughtful gift for every teacher and staff member. Let's show our appreciation for all they do. Volunteer sign-ups will be coming soon. Reach out to Michelle MacDonald or Bunny Cooper with any questions. 

Ladies Night Out

Join us on 12/11 for a fun-filled night of shopping and socializing at LULU + BO, a chic new boutique in Midland Park. This exclusive event is just for Orchard moms! Owned by local Ridgewood sisters, Miriam and Erica, LULU + BO offers a unique blend of luxury and boho style, featuring trendy women's apparel, stunning jewelry, and thoughtful gifts. Contact Amy Dishuk or Heather Madigan with questions.

Meet Your SEPAG Representative for Orchard Elementary

Mike Mase is the Ridgewood SEPAG (Special Education Parent Advisory Group) representative for Orchard Elementary. SEPAG supports families of students with special education needs by advocating and providing resources. If you have questions or need assistance, you can reach Mike Mase. Subscribe today for SEPAG newsletters and events to stay informed. 

Yearbooks and Memory Books

The Orchard Yearbook celebrates our entire school community, showcasing each grade level. Purchase your copy each spring for June delivery. Proceeds support our HSA. Please upload your pics to the grade level links all year long.  For questions contact the yearbook committee

The 5th Grade Memory Book is a special keepsake for our graduating class. It showcases photos from their time at Orchard and is a gift from the school, funded by 5th-grade fundraising efforts. Each 5th grader will receive a copy. The Memory Book Committee will soon share private photo album links with 5th-grade parents only.

TIPS TO GET YOUR CHILD’S PHOTOS FEATURED

Looking Ahead:

12/2-12/6 - Change Drive/Food Drive Week

12/5 - Third Grade Play

12/6 - Pajama Day

12/11 - Ladies Night Out

12/13 - Teacher Appreciation Holiday Luncheon

12/20 - Holiday Sing-Along

12/23-1/1 - School Closed


November 26, 2024

E-News


Dear Orchard Families,


Happy Thanksgiving!


  • Tomorrow is a minimum day - no lunch will be served, and pick-up is at 12:45 pm.

  • When we get back it will be a new month. Place your lunch orders for December now.


December Lunch Menu


Virtual Backpack

How to report an absence or tardy


Principal’s Corner:

Mrs. Ferreri has some important reminders for the month ahead! 

In her monthly letter, she expresses gratitude for the Orchard community and highlights the importance of empathy, both for students and adults, as a key focus for the month of November.


Orchard School Happenings: 

Orchard Gives Back/Coin Drive & Food Drive

Change for change! Help us fill the collection bins with spare change and non-perishable food items. Let's make this holiday season brighter for those in need! All proceeds benefit the Social Service Association of Ridgewood and Vicinity.

Friends of Orchard Fundraising Campaign

It is once again time to humbly ask for your support for the “Friends of Orchard” Fundraising Campaign. As you may know, this is the largest and most critical fundraiser Orchard holds during a non-auction year. We encourage all Orchard families to consider donating; truly, no donation is too small. Please see the attached letter with more details and information on how to donate.

Virtual Book Fair

Need holiday gifting ideas? It's not too late. The book fair is still open online! Shop, enjoy, and use up those gift cards! Happy Shopping!

Teachers’ Holiday Luncheon 

Help us make this holiday season extra special for our teachers and staff at Orchard! The annual Holiday Luncheon is coming up on Friday, December 13th, and we need your support to make it a memorable event. Your donation will go towards a festive meal, beautiful decorations, and a thoughtful gift for every teacher and staff member. Let's show our appreciation for all they do. Volunteer sign-ups will be coming soon. Reach out to Michelle MacDonald or Bunny Cooper with any questions. 


Ladies Night Out

Join us on 12/11 for a fun-filled night of shopping and socializing at LULU + BO, a chic new boutique in Midland Park. This exclusive event is just for Orchard moms! Owned by local Ridgewood sisters, Miriam and Erica, LULU + BO offers a unique blend of luxury and boho style, featuring trendy women's apparel, stunning jewelry, and thoughtful gifts. Contact Amy Dishuk or Heather Madigan with questions.

Meet Your SEPAG Representative for Orchard Elementary

Mike Mase is the Ridgewood SEPAG (Special Education Parent Advisory Group) representative for Orchard Elementary. SEPAG supports families of students with special education needs by advocating and providing resources. If you have questions or need assistance, you can reach Mike Mase. Subscribe today for SEPAG newsletters and events to stay informed. 

Yearbooks and Memory Books

The Orchard Yearbook celebrates our entire school community, showcasing each grade level. Purchase your copy each spring for June delivery. Proceeds support our HSA. Please upload your pics to the grade level links all year long.  For questions contact the yearbook committee

The 5th Grade Memory Book is a special keepsake for our graduating class. It showcases photos from their time at Orchard and is a gift from the school, funded by 5th-grade fundraising efforts. Each 5th grader will receive a copy. The Memory Book Committee will soon share private photo album links with 5th-grade parents only.

TIPS TO GET YOUR CHILD’S PHOTOS FEATURED

Gratitude Corner:

We're so grateful to Jen Zolcinski and Nancy Wong for putting together an amazing book fair! The kids had a blast choosing their books, and the new vendor was a hit. We also want to express thanks to Sarah Wodenshek for organizing the birthday books, a wonderful surprise for our students that they'll cherish for many years to come!

Looking Ahead:

11/27 - Kindergarten Show 

11/27 - Minimum Day

11/28-29 - School Closed 

12/2-12/6 - Change Drive/Food Drive Week

12/5 - Third Grade Play

12/6 - Pajama Day

12/5 - Third Grade Play

12/11 - Ladies Night Out

12/13 - Teacher Appreciation Holiday Luncheon

12/20 - Holiday Sing-Along