Lilja PTO Newsletter (11/22/21)

Lilja PTO Newsletter (11/22/21)

Upcoming events

• Picture Retake Day 11/23

• Early Release 11/24

• Thanksgiving Break 11/25-26

• Scholastic Book Fair 12/1-2

NPS Engage 11/19

Some key things to note from last Friday's district newsblast:

• Information sessions are planned at each elementary to discuss the impact of the Johnson closure (more below).

• NPS will soon ask for documentation from students aged 5-11 for either Covid vaccination status or their opt in for pool testing in order to participate in extracurricular activities.

• There will be no pool testing this week (Nov 22-24) due to a staffing shortage. Pool testing will resume the week of Nov 29.

• If your child becomes a close contact or infected with Covid, including over Thanksgiving break, you will need to send a negative PCR or rapid molecular test result to Nurse Naser at bnaser@natickps.org, in order to be cleared to return to school.

• There has been a concerning rise in Covid cases across the district. Please remain vigilant and take care during Thanksgiving to celebrate safely.

Lilja Book Fair

Wed 1 Dec & Thu 2 Dec, 2-8pm

Lilja Learning Commons (Library)

We need your help! More volunteers are required to help us set up, be a cashier, and clean up after the event. Click here to sign up.

Families are invited to visit the school library with their child(ren) to shop from a wide selection of books and gifts. All proceeds will go directly towards new books and supplies for the school. You can also directly purchase a book for your classroom from your teacher's wish box at the fair.

Don't forget to hand in the coloring page that was sent home with your child before 1 Dec for their chance to win some cool prizes! A copy is available to print here.

This is a fantastic chance to get much of your holiday shopping done without having to worry about supply chain issues, while supporting a great cause!

You will also get a chance to look through the Lost & Found shelves during the book fair, before the contents are bagged and donated.

For more details visit the book fair page on our website.

Johnson Closure & Lilja

After interviews with Johnson families to discuss which school they will transition to (Lilja, Brown or Memorial), Superintendent Nolin will hold forums at all the affected schools to describe the transition. Currently the exact number of students being redistricted to Lilja has not been confirmed, an extra class could still be added per grade level, and the preschool could be moved to another site. More information will be forthcoming as the plan progresses.  

NPS Draft Enrollment Plan 2023-2026

Recording of 11/15 School Committee Meeting

Spiritwear Store

Thank you to those who have already ordered their Lilja spiritwear! These are in stock now with free delivery so you don't have to worry about shipping delays, and they make a great gift for the holidays.

Sweatshirts are available in Charcoal, Light Gray and Navy blue, in Youth S, M, L & XL. Tees are available in Blue, Green, Purple and Red in Youth XS, S, M, L & XL.

Get your Lilja gear today:

liljapto.org/lilja-spirit-gear

Holiday Card Partner Programs

Don't forget to order your holiday cards through one of our Partner Programs and help the PTO at the same time. You can either shop through Shutterfly using this link, or order from Minted.com and enter code FUNDRAISELILJA at checkout.

Lost & Found Reminder

Please remind your child to check the Lost & Found shelves near the cafeteria, or have a look at the virtual Lost & Found. Parents and caregivers will have a chance to look through the Lost & Found shelves for themselves during the Book Fair (12/1-2), when it will be temporarily moved to be close to the library. After this time, any remaining items will be bagged up and placed in the white donation bins before winter vacation week.

Square 1 Art

We are only one third of the way to reaching our sales goal for the Square 1 Art fundraiser. If you haven't already, search for your child's work and start shopping for fun, personalized gifts like magnets, bags, even dog tags. Order now to have a chance to get your gift in time for the holidays.

shop.square1art.com/Shop/artwork/Search

Staff Spotlight: Christine Norrman

What do you do at Lilja?
I teach third grade.

Can you tell us about your family?
It is just me and my daughter Brooklyn. :) Brooklyn is a Sophmore in high school. She is an incredible person who keeps me on my toes all the time.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I LOVE to travel. I will at any moment get in a car and drive any distance to anywhere.

You get one song to listen to for the rest of your life, what is it?
Anything by PRINCE!

Finish this sentence: I can't live without…
….my daughter.

If you weren't at Lilja, what would you be doing?
Hmmm….? I don't know. My love of traveling and National Parks has brought me road tripping across the country about 10 times.

Talk to usWhether you're a new or returning family, we would love to hear from you! If you have any questions, ideas or suggestions, or want to help us out, please contact us at pto@liljapto.org. For PTO updates outside of this newsletter, visit our website or find us on Facebook. For the latest Lilja School Newsletter from the Principal, click here. If you have received this email in error, i.e. you no longer have children attending Lilja, please contact us at pto@liljapto.org and we can remove you from the mailing list.

Lilja PTO Newsletter (11/15/21)

Lilja PTO Newsletter (11/15/21) - UPDATED

Please see below for an update to the newsletter sent earlier today, with new information about the School Committee vote, and the enrollment projections for each school going into 2025.

Upcoming events

• PTO Meeting, Early Release 11/17

• Picture Retake Day 11/23

• Early Release 11/24

• Thanksgiving Break 11/25-26

• Scholastic Book Fair 12/1-2

PTO Meeting THIS WEDNESDAY

Please join us this Wednesday 17 November at 7pm on Zoom to hear an update from the principal and the PTO board: https://bentley.zoom.us/j/93687199488

Everyone is welcome, you can be muted and have your camera turned off if you would just like to watch.

School Committee Meeting UPDATED

The Natick School Committee has just voted to proceed with a phased closure of Johnson Elementary, with the final closure occurring in 2025. The latest enrollment plan, which has been confirmed by Superintendent Nolin, adds no extra grade level classes to Lilja. Instead the redistricted students will be evenly distributed over the existing classes.

We are still seeking clarification on whether the preschool classrooms will be moved, and will include an update on this in next week's newsletter. 

Superintendent's presentation slides.

Online Agenda
A recording of the meeting will be uploaded here once it is available.

Spiritwear Store

Thank you to those who have already ordered their Lilja spiritwear! These are in stock now with free delivery so you don't have to worry about shipping delays, and they make a great gift for the holidays.

Sweatshirts are available in Charcoal, Light Gray and Navy blue, in Youth S, M, L & XL. Tees are available in Blue, Green, Purple and Red in Youth XS, S, M, L & XL.

Get your Lilja gear today:

liljapto.org/lilja-spirit-gear

Natick Service Council Thanksgiving Drive 

We hit our goal! THANK YOU!!!

Just wanted to say a huge thank you to all the Room Parents who helped make this happen and to all the Lilja families who donated to our annual Thanksgiving Drive to benefit the Natick Service Council. You and the other families in your child’s classroom were able to collect enough money to sponsor Natick families in need so they can purchase their own Thanksgiving meal.

Even though we’ve had so much fun in years past collecting food items and delivering the full baskets of all the ingredients for a Turkey dinner to the Natick Service Council, we still came together as a school to support our community during the holidays. And it was another huge success!

Not only did we surpass our goal of $3,300 for sponsoring 1 family of 5 per classroom - that’s 22 large families - like we usually do, but together we collected a total of $3,724.21! The NSC will use this money to help so many families as they support our town’s community members in need over the entire holiday season.

I’m so grateful to be a part of such a wonderful community at Lilja. Thank you again for your generosity and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Laura Viale
Lilja Thanksgiving Drive Coordinator

Holiday Card Partner Programs

Don't forget to order your holiday cards through one of our Partner Programs and help the PTO at the same time. You can either shop through Shutterfly using this link, or order from Minted.com and enter code FUNDRAISELILJA at checkout.

Scholastic Book Fair Dec 1-2

Get set for the biggest literacy event of the Lilja school year! The Book Fair will be held at the Lilja Library from 2-8pm on Wed 1 and Thu 2 December. Look out for a flyer coming home with your child soon with a coloring page that they can return to their teacher for a chance to win a prize. Classroom teachers will also have a special wish box if you would like to help purchase a book for your child's class. 

Lost & Found Reminder

Please remind your child to check the Lost & Found shelves near the cafeteria, or have a look at the virtual Lost & Found. All items not claimed by vacation weeks will be bagged up and put in the white donation bins by the carpark.

NPS Covid-19 vaccine clinics

Thank you to everyone who attended the clinics at Kennedy Middle School this past weekend. Nearly 2,000 kids got their Covid 19 vaccination over the two days, and some of them even met Spider-Man and Moana!

Our Yearbook Coordinator Shahnaz Islam would love to collect photos of Lilja students at this (or any) Covid 19 vaccine clinic to include in the yearbook.

To submit a photo, please use this form.

Square One Art

Square1 Art is a fundraiser project for our school through which you can order items such as mugs, drink bottles and holiday ornaments with your child's artwork on it. It's a great gift for loved ones, and helps Lilja at the same time. Order soon to ensure your item will be received in time for the holidays.

To search for your child's artwork and start your order, use this link:  https://shop.square1art.com/Shop/artwork/Search

Staff Spotlight: Christie Ingoldsby

What do you do at Lilja?
Administrative Assistant to the Principal

Can you tell us about your family?
I live in Millis with my husband, Pat, and my two kids, Braden and Ashlyn. Braden is in 7th grade, and Ashlyn is in 4th grade. We also have a black lab named Buster!

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
When I'm not at work, I'm usually at my kids sporting events. I also love watching the Bruins, going for walks with my dog, and spending time with family and friends.

You get one song to listen to for the rest of your life, what is it?
Right now I would say "All Too Well" by Taylor Swift!

Finish this sentence: I can't live without…
My morning coffee.

If you weren't at Lilja, what would you be doing?
Probably working with animals in some capacity. I'm a huge animal lover.

Talk to usWhether you're a new or returning family, we would love to hear from you! If you have any questions, ideas or suggestions, or want to help us out, please contact us at pto@liljapto.org. For PTO updates outside of this newsletter, visit our website or find us on Facebook. For the latest Lilja School Newsletter from the Principal, click here. If you have received this email in error, i.e. you no longer have children attending Lilja, please contact us at pto@liljapto.org and we can remove you from the mailing list.

Lilja PTO Newsletter (11/8/21)

Lilja PTO Newsletter (11/8/21)

Upcoming events

• Veteran's Day NO SCHOOL 11/11

• PTO Meeting 11/17

• Picture Retake Day 11/23

• Scholastic Book Fair 12/1-2

Morning Mischief Photos

Check out our event photo gallery here! Don't forget to upload a pic and be in to win a spirit gear pack! Your photo may also be featured on our website, Facebook page and the yearbook.

If you are having trouble with the Google form submission, you can also email us the photos directly at pto@liljapto.org and we will send you a photo clearance statement to confirm.

School Committee Meeting

Next Monday 11/15, the School Committee will vote on whether to proceed with a phased closure of Johnson Elementary. Under the proposal, at least one Kindergarten class will be added to Lilja from the next school year (SY22-23), with more classes to be added in the coming years. More information is available in this enrollment planning tool by NPS.

You can read the in depth report on Facilities, Space and Capital Planning, or the shorter version of it in the Executive Summary. Related information can be found on the Capital & Space Planning Information Site. 

If you have any feedback or concerns regarding this vote, please email the School Committee before the meeting at schoolcommittee@natickps.org.

Spiritwear Now Available!

Unfortunately we were unable to get our spirit wear delivered in time for our Halloween event, but the good news is they are now available for sale on our website, and we are offering free shipping!

Sweatshirts are available in Charcoal, Light Gray and Navy blue, in Youth S, M, L & XL. Tees are available in Blue, Green, Purple and Red in Youth XS, S, M, L & XL.

Get your Lilja gear today:

liljapto.org/lilja-spirit-gear

Natick Service Council Thanksgiving Drive

Don't forget to donate to the Lilja Thanksgiving Drive by this Friday November 12th.

venmo.com/u/Lilja-Thanksgiving-Drive

Holiday Card Partner Programs

If you haven't ordered your holiday cards already, why not do it through one of our Partner Programs and help the PTO at the same time? You can either shop through Shutterfly using this link, or order from Minted.com and enter code FUNDRAISELILJA at checkout.

Scholastic Book Fair Dec 1-2

Stay tuned for more information about our upcoming Scholastic Book Fair!

Lost & Found Reminder

Please remind your child to check the Lost & Found shelves near the cafeteria, or have a look at the virtual Lost & Found. All items not claimed by vacation weeks will be bagged up and put in the white donation bins by the carpark.

NPS Covid-19 vaccine clinics

If you missed out on a spot in this Saturday's Covid vaccine clinic at Kennedy Middle School, NPS's local partner, VCare, led by Natick Resident Vipul Patel, will also hold a free COVID vaccine clinic for kids 5-11 on Sunday November 14, 9-2pm.

Please register using the registration link for the clinic: https://hipaa.jotform.com/VCarePharmacy/NPSVaccineSuperheroes  

Staff Spotlight: Jen Violet

What do you do at Lilja?
Math Specialist/Coach. In this position I support teachers and students in the area of mathematics.  I hope to create a positive culture around mathematics where students and teachers can feel confident and have fun.

Can you tell us about your family?
I have been married for 17 years and have 2 daughters.  Aubrey is 12 and Morgan is 9.  I love spending time with my family.  We love to go camping in the summer.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I like to garden (both flowers and vegetables).  I like to get outdoors and walk.  I enjoy yoga & meditation to relieve stress.

You get one song to listen to for the rest of your life, what is it?
You Can Close Your Eyes- James Taylor

Finish this sentence: I can't live without…
Coffee, unfortunately it is my vice.

What's a surprising fact about you?
I was super shy & introverted as a kid.  Now I get up in front of kids and adults to lead workshops and professional development.

If you weren't at Lilja, what would you be doing?
I always thought being a toy designer would be cool.  I do LOVE what I do so I would probably design educational toys for math.

Talk to usWhether you're a new or returning family, we would love to hear from you! If you have any questions, ideas or suggestions, or want to help us out, please contact us at pto@liljapto.org. For PTO updates outside of this newsletter, visit our website or find us on Facebook. For the latest Lilja School Newsletter from the Principal, click here. If you have received this email in error, i.e. you no longer have children attending Lilja, please contact us at pto@liljapto.org and we can remove you from the mailing list.

Lilja PTO Newsletter (11/1/21)

Lilja PTO Newsletter (11/1/21)

Upcoming events

• NPS Space Planning Forum 11/1

• Panera Fundraiser 11/3

• PTO Meeting 11/17

• Picture Retake Day 11/23

• Scholastic Book Fair 12/1-2

Morning Mischief - THANK YOU!

Thank you to everyone who helped make our Morning Mischief event a success! We raised over $2,000 for the PTO, which will go straight back into programs benefitting the students and teachers at Lilja. Particular thanks to the families who brought decorated vehicles, and the parents and staff who helped at our tables. Finally, a special shoutout to Lilja's head custodian Mark D'Agostino, who spent a lot of extra time helping us before and after the event, and our principal Stefani Wasik for selling raffle tickets.

Photo Submissions

We want your photos! Upload a pic from the event here and be in to win a spirit gear pack! Your photo may also be featured on our website, Facebook page and the yearbook.

If you are having trouble with the Google form submission, you can also email us the photos directly at pto@liljapto.org and we will send you a photo clearance statement to confirm.

Winners

Congratulations to Carol Izuto who won our 50/50 Raffle, and Miles Willard who won the candy count with his guess of 1,492, which was the closest to the actual number of 1,498!

NPS Space Planning Forum

Don't miss the community forum tonight to discuss issues of class sizes and offerings across Natick Public Schools.

Community Forum
Monday, November 1 @7PM
Join the meeting via Computer or Phone App:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81394916525
Meeting ID: 813 9491 6525

You can read the in depth report on Facilities, Space and Capital Planning, or the shorter version of it in the Executive Summary. Related information can be found on the Capital & Space Planning Information Site. 

Panera Fundraiser 11/3

Take the night off and help the PTO by dining in or getting takeout from Panera at 9/27 plaza this Wednesday 3 November, 4-8pm! Order online or on the app, use code PRFUND at checkout, or show this flyer to your cashier.

Natick Service Council Thanksgiving Drive

Thanksgiving Drive is BACK this year!

There is nothing quite as magical as giving and knowing you made a difference in someone’s life.

We are excited to announce that Lilja will again be helping the Natick Service Council (NSC) by sponsoring Natick families in need this Thanksgiving. For over a decade, each classroom at Lilja have donated the ingredients for a Thanksgiving meal for one family, contributing 20-24 full turkey dinners to the NSC. They distribute Thanksgiving meals to over 200 Natick families per year, and we are so proud that Lilja plays a part in this mission.

Similar to last year, monetary donations are preferred over direct food donations, so that families are able to purchase their own Thanksgiving meal.

Lilja has had great success in years past by having each classroom sponsor one family of 4-5 people. To keep the tradition going, we will be asking for donations through your classroom so each class can raise enough money to sponsor one family.

This is a wonderful way to keep this Thanksgiving Drive meaningful and teach our students what it means to be part of a community. The deadline to contribute is Nov 12th.

Your Room Parents will send an email to your child’s class to collect funds for your classroom. Or you can donate here: venmo.com/u/Lilja-Thanksgiving-Drive

Thanks in advance for your generosity!

Holiday Card Partner Programs

If you haven't ordered your holiday cards already, why not do it through one of our Partner Programs and help the PTO at the same time? You can either shop through Shutterfly using this link, or order from Minted.com and enter code FUNDRAISELILJA at checkout.

New Month, New Menu

Don't forget to check out the new November lunch menu from Natick Food Service here.

Did you know that participating in the school lunch program (which is free for this school year) can have wider benefits for all children at the school, and the district? Find out more in this article.

Lost & Found Reminder

Please remind your child to check the Lost & Found shelves near the cafeteria, or have a look at the virtual Lost & Found. All items not claimed by vacation weeks will be bagged up and put in the white donation bins by the carpark.

NPS Covid-19 vaccine clinics

In case you missed it in last Friday's NPS blast from Dr Nolin:

Vaccine Clinics for Kids Ages 5-11
I have been working with a private donor and the Natick Board of Health, and we have two vaccine clinics for 5-11 year olds ready to go. We are just waiting another week while the FDA fully approves and the vaccines are released. It is our vision to do Saturday clinics at both middle schools. I will also (hopefully) provide tours with our student leaders of the new KMS while people are there. NATICK VACCINE CLINIC DATES ARE TBD

There are also hundreds of vaccination sites across the state that have indicated their willingness to vaccinate children ages 5-11. Many accept walk-in appointments, including CVS and Walgreens pharmacies, Market Basket and other grocery chains, and community health centers. More information on these sites, as well as safety information and helpful questions and answers, are all available at mass.gov/covidvaccine.

Staff Spotlight: Becky Moss

What do you do at Lilja?
I am the Lilja Librarian (actual title is Elementary Library Media Paraprofessional) What I do is a different question. 

Can you tell us about your family?
My husband Charlie is a house painter, actor and all around great guy. Our daughter Julia is a recent college grad currently living in Oregon — too far away for words!

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Being outside in nature

You get one song to listen to for the rest of your life, what is it?
(So hard to pick one!) Spain, Chick Corea

Finish this sentence: I can't live without…
People!

What's a surprising fact about you?
For one season I played on the Men’s JV Soccer team in college (yes Title IX) 

If you weren't at Lilja, what would you be doing?
Relocating to a library in the Pacific Northwest!  

Talk to usWhether you're a new or returning family, we would love to hear from you! If you have any questions, ideas or suggestions, or want to help us out, please contact us at pto@liljapto.org. For PTO updates outside of this newsletter, visit our website or find us on Facebook. For the latest Lilja School Newsletter from the Principal, click here. If you have received this email in error, i.e. you no longer have children attending Lilja, please contact us at pto@liljapto.org and we can remove you from the mailing list.

Lilja PTO Newsletter (10/25/21)

Lilja PTO Newsletter (10/25/21)

Upcoming events

• Morning Mischief 10/31

• NPS Space Planning Forum 11/1

• Panera Fundraiser 11/2

• PTO Meeting 11/17

PTO Meeting

Thanks to those who attended our virtual meeting last week. If you missed, it, the minutes are now available at liljapto.org/meetings

NPS Space Planning Forum

You have probably received a number of emails about the community forum on space planning for Natick Public Schools. This was originally planned for tonight but has now been rescheduled for next Monday, November 1 at 7pm on Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81394916525

The proposed closure of Johnson could have a very large impact on the Lilja community, and the town as a whole, so we strongly urge everyone to find out more about the plans and take part to have your say.

If you are unable to attend the meeting, you can also make a submission in writing to the Natick School Committee at schoolcommittee@natickps.org

For more information about the plans from NPS, please refer to this executive summary or full report. 

Morning Mischief THIS SUNDAY!

Less than one week to go until the PTO's first in person, school wide event for the year! If you have already registered, you will receive an email shortly with more information about what to expect. Fingers crossed the weather cooperates!

If you registered as a Trunk or Treat vehicle and didn't already receive an email with more information about this, please email pto@liljapto.org and we will be in touch.

Entry is free but we would appreciate a donation of $5-10 per family to help us cover the costs of putting on the event. If you haven't already, you can donate via Konstella here or on the day.

Panera Fundraiser 11/3

Take the night off and help the PTO by eating at Panera at 9/27 next Wednesday 3 November! Order online or on the app, use code PRFUND at checkout, or show this flyer to your cashier.

Virtual Lost & Found

A virtual lost & found has now been set up on our website here liljapto.org/virtual-lost-found

Photos will be updated whenever possible, but remind your child to check the shelves opposite the cafeteria if they are missing an item, chances are it is there.

Picture Retake Day

If your child missed Picture Day, or you need a new picture taken for some reason, Lifetouch has confirmed that they will be back at Lilja to do retakes on Tuesday 23 November. Please confirm with your child's classroom teacher before this date if your child needs to have their photo taken.

Outdoor Lunch

We have been very lucky with the weather for outdoor lunch up until this week! Unfortunately as the courtyard is not a covered area, outdoor lunch will not be offered on days when it is raining. Rest assured no child will be forced to eat in the rain! Hopefully the weather will clear up to have this option available again soon.

Thanksgiving Drive

Lilja's annual efforts to help families in need through the Natick Service Council will be starting soon! Due to Covid, we will again be running a cash donation drive as opposed to collecting physical items. Last year we raised around $3,000, hopefully we can meet or even beat that this year. More details on how to donate will be available in upcoming newsletters.

Staff Spotlight: Joanna Tsacoyeanes

What do you do at Lilja?
I teach 4th grade!

Can you tell us about your family?
I'm from a long line of teachers! On my mom's side, I'm the 4th generation of elementary teachers!

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Hiking, walking, yoga, reading, traveling

What's a surprising fact about you?
I've performed in the ballet The Nutcracker over 60 times!

Talk to usWhether you're a new or returning family, we would love to hear from you! If you have any questions, ideas or suggestions, or want to help us out, please contact us at pto@liljapto.org. For PTO updates outside of this newsletter, visit our website or find us on Facebook. For the latest Lilja School Newsletter from the Principal, click here. If you have received this email in error, i.e. you no longer have children attending Lilja, please contact us at pto@liljapto.org and we can remove you from the mailing list.

Lilja PTO Newsletter (10/18/21)

Lilja PTO Newsletter (10/18/21)

Upcoming events

• PTO Meeting 10/20

• Morning Mischief 10/31

• PTO Meeting 11/17

• Scholastic Book Fair 12/1-2

PTO Meeting 10/20

We had a great turnout at the first meeting, so please join us again (or for the first time) this Wednesday 20 October at 7pm on Zoom: https://bentley.zoom.us/j/93687199488

Our meeting lets you hear directly from Principal Wasik, find out more about upcoming events, and how the PTO is helping the school. All are welcome, you can even bring your dinner and a drink and leave your camera off if you just want to listen in. 'See' you then!

Coming Soon: Show your Lilja Lion Spirit!

We are excited to announce that new Lilja branded spirit wear will be available for sale soon! You can show your Lilja Lion Pride and support the PTO at the same time.

Sweatshirts, t-shirts, magnets, drink bottles and tote bags should be available for purchase at our Halloween event, as well as at other events and even on our website going forward.

Express & Explore with Ms Golestani

A reminder that enrollment for the after-school enrichment program run by NPS at Lilja opens this afternoon (10/18) at 6pm. Click here to register.

Come on board with Ms. Golestani to Lilja’s fun and artsy afterschool program where you can make your imagination come true through painting, printing, cutting and gluing. Lilja Art Enrichment is a creative place where you can improve your artistic skills, learn different techniques and art styles to express your ideas and explore new ways to bring them to life!

Room 403
8-Week Session: $105
Dates: 12/2, 12/9, 12/16, 12/23, 1/6 , 1/13, 1/20, 1/27

Courses begin at school dismissal (please pack a nut-free snack) and end at 4:15PM. Space is limited; registrations are processed first-come, first-served. Children may only attend courses offered at their home school.

Morning Mischief 10/31

It's not too late to register if you are planning to come along! Information will be going out next week to families who signed up to bring a car to the Trunk or Treat, and to be a helper on the day. Entry is free, but a suggested donation of $5-10 per family is welcomed to help us cover the costs of putting on the event. You can donate via Konstella here or on the day.

Love a Local Landmark: Cochituate Rail Trail

Have you been on the newly opened Cochituate Rail Trail? Running all the way from Natick Center to Saxonville, you can ride or walk part or all of the way. Kids will probably enjoy a play at Navy Yard playground at the beginning or end, and you can even stop for lunch at Zippity-Do-Dog by the TJX building. A great way to get outside and enjoy the fall weather! Click here for a full trail map.

Photo from Natick GIS

Staff Spotlight: Shelby Marscher

What do you do at Lilja?
I am the school psychologist! At Lilja I wear many hats. I help children who are having BIG feelings and children who are working on their friendship skills. I also help a child’s team figure out their learning profile. Everybody’s brain is a little different. If I can help a child and their team understand the things they are strong at and the things they work harder at then I can help make school feel a little easier :)

Can you tell us about your family?
Many of you know Maisy, my 12 year old dog who joins the therapy team here at Lilja. My husband and I also have two daughters: a kindergartener and a preschooler!

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I LOVE to read! I draw and exercise in my spare time. I am also a master Magnatile builder with my girls.

You get one song to listen to for the rest of your life, what is it?
Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey

Finish this sentence: I can't live without…
My family. And, coffee!!

What's a surprising fact about you?
When I was growing up I wanted to be a Disney animator! I still sketch and paint in my free time.

If you weren't at Lilja, what would you be doing?
I would be a graduate school professor teaching future school psychologists

Talk to us

Whether you're a new or returning family, we would love to hear from you! If you have any questions, ideas or suggestions, or want to help us out, please contact us at pto@liljapto.org. For PTO updates outside of this newsletter, visit our website or find us on Facebook. For the latest Lilja School Newsletter from the Principal, click here. If you have received this email in error, i.e. you no longer have children attending Lilja, please contact us at pto@liljapto.org and we can remove you from the mailing list.

Lilja PTO Newsletter (10/11/21)

Lilja PTO Newsletter (10/11/21)

Upcoming events

• Outdoor Lunch begins 10/12

• Early Release 10/13
  (Dismissal at 12:15PM, grab & go lunches available)

• Picture Day 10/15

• PTO Meeting 10/20

• Morning Mischief 10/31

• Scholastic Book Fair 12/1-2

PTO Meeting 10/20

Our next meeting is scheduled for next Wednesday 20 October at 7pm on Zoom. The link will be available in next week's newsletter and on our Facebook page.

Lost & Found

Do you recognize these? With cold mornings and warm afternoons, many sweaters are being left behind at school. Please remind your child to check the fence by the playground and also the lost and found for their items.

If you need clothing labels, you can help support the PTO by ordering from Mabel's Labels. Select "Lilja PTO (Natick)" under Support A Fundraiser at checkout.

Find out more about all our partner programs here.

Photo Day 10/15

Don't forget to order your child's photo by Friday! The easiest way is to do it online at mylifetouch.com with the Lilja ID: EVTT6SSSC

Morning Mischief 10/31

Register now if you are planning to attend, if you haven't already! Thanks to everyone who has signed up to be an event helper or bring a decorated vehicle to be part of the Trunk or Treat. We will be sending more details on when to arrive, where to park, and how many children to expect approximately a week before the event.

Entry is free, but a suggested donation of $5-10 per family is welcomed to help us cover the costs of putting on the event. You can donate via Konstella here or on the day.

Scholastic Book Fair 12/1-2

Mark your calendars for Lilja's biggest literacy event of the year! We are excited to confirm that we will be holding a non-virtual book fair with Scholastic on 1-2 December. Just in time to stock up on books and gifts for the holidays!

Many thanks to the parents who have volunteered to take on this big event for the PTO. Stay tuned for more details in upcoming newsletters.

Love a Local Business: Tilly & Salvy's Bacon St Farm

Tilly's has been a strong supporter of Lilja for many years, and have traditionally run a Pumpkin Festival at this time of the year to raise money for local schools. Unfortunately there is no festival this year, however they are still making a donation to the Lilja PTO. Many thanks for their continued support, and we encourage everyone to visit them to get pumpkins, pies, fresh produce, and all your other grocery needs.

New PTO Board

The new PTO Board just started a two year term from the beginning of this school year. Get to know your board members by visiting our newly updated board profile page on our website here.

Staff Spotlight: Sarah Quimby

What do you do at Lilja?
I am a 4th-grade teacher.

Can you tell us about your family?
At home, I live with my husband, Ben, and my baby boy, Paxton. We also have two adorable kittens named Nala and Raja.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I absolutely love gardening, hiking, and just being outside in general. I really enjoy reading and meditating at the beach too. However, my favorite thing to do with my family is team Crossfit workouts!

You get one song to listen to for the rest of your life, what is it?
I Feel Better When I'm Dancing by Meghan Trainor

Finish this sentence: I can't live without…
Chocolate and peanut butter

What's a surprising fact about you?
I played field hockey for 18 years

If you weren't at Lilja, what would you be doing?
Being a farmer

Talk to us

Whether you're a new or returning family, we would love to hear from you! If you have any questions, ideas or suggestions, or want to help us out, please contact us at pto@liljapto.org. For PTO updates outside of this newsletter, visit our website or find us on Facebook. For the latest Lilja School Newsletter from the Principal, click here. If you have received this email in error, i.e. you no longer have children attending Lilja, please contact us at pto@liljapto.org and we can remove you from the mailing list.

Lilja PTO Newsletter (10/04/21)

Lilja PTO Newsletter (10/04/21)

Upcoming events - see below for further details on each

• CPK Restaurant Night 10/7

• Picture Day 10/15

• PTO Meeting 10/20

• Morning Mischief 10/31

PTO Meeting 10/20

Thanks to everyone who joined us for our first public PTO meeting last week! If you missed it, the minutes are available on our website liljapto.org/meetings

Our next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday 20 October at 7pm on Zoom, and the link will be available in that week's newsletter and on our Facebook page.

CPK Wellesley Restaurant Night 10/7

Dine in or get takeout from California Pizza Kitchen Linden Square, Wellesley anytime (lunch or dinner) this Thursday 7 October to support the PTO. Simply show this flyer on paper or your phone when dining in, or use code BACK20% when ordering online. Tell your friends, wider family and neighbors, and make sure they show the flyer or use the code!

Photo Day 10/15

Don't forget to order your child's photo! The easiest way is to do it online at mylifetouch.com with the Lilja ID: EVTT6SSSC

Morning Mischief 10/31

Register now if you are planning to attend, if you haven't already! We would also love to have more families sign up to bring a decorated car to display for the Trunk or Treat. If you sign up, you can either provide your own treats (food or non food) to give away, or the PTO can help if required. We will give you an idea of the estimated attendee numbers closer to the date once all the registrations are in.

Entry will be free but donations to the PTO will be welcomed to help us cover the costs of putting on the event. You can donate via Konstella here or on the day. Many thanks to Wegmans who have made a $250 donation for the event.

Outdoor Lunch

This week Principal Wasik will be sending out more information and the registration link to sign up for outdoor lunch if you wish to opt in. Thank you to all the parent volunteers who are helping with this effort to provide a more Covid-safe eating option for the school.

Curriculum Night Feedback

The school would love to get more feedback about curriculum night, so please fill out the survey if you haven't already.

Staff Spotlight: Sepi Golestani

What do you do at Lilja?
I make art with all the amazing Lilja Lion Artists!

Can you tell us about your family?
I live with my husband, Abbas and our 13-year-old son, Eelia and Mr. Coco the guinea pig :)

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Painting, drawing, spending time with my family, and walking in nature

You get one song to listen to for the rest of your life, what is it?
Besame Mucho by Andrea Bucelli

Finish this sentence: I can't live without…
Coffee and paint ;)

What's a surprising fact about you?
I used to be a biomedical engineer!!

If you weren't a teacher what would you be doing?
Spending time in my art studio, painting all day :)

You can follow Ms Golestani on Instagram here!

Talk to usWhether you're a new or returning family, we would love to hear from you! If you have any questions, ideas or suggestions, or want to help us out, please contact us at pto@liljapto.org. For PTO updates outside of this newsletter, visit our website or find us on Facebook. If you have received this email in error, i.e. you no longer have children attending Lilja, please contact us at pto@liljapto.org and we can remove you from the mailing list.

Lilja PTO Newsletter (9/27/21)

Lilja PTO Newsletter (9/27/21)

Upcoming events - see below for further details on each

• PTO Meeting 9/29

• CPK Restaurant Night 10/7

• Picture Day 10/15

• Morning Mischief 10/31

PTO Meeting 9/29

The first public PTO meeting of the year is scheduled for 7pm this Wednesday 29 Sep on Zoom. All are welcome! Please join us here: https://bentley.zoom.us/j/93687199488

There will be a Principal's Update, PTO introduction, financial report, discussion of upcoming events, and time for questions.

The PTO does not have 'memberships', anyone can pitch in to help. We would love to see more parent involvement this year, so please join us if you are able. All meeting dates, agendas and minutes are posted on our website liljapto.org.

California Pizza Kitchen Restaurant Night

Dine in or get takeout from California Pizza Kitchen Linden Square on Thursday 7 October, and we will get a donation from your order. So take a night off cooking and support the PTO! Anyone can participate as long as they mention the fundraiser, so you can get your wider family, friends and neighbors to support us too. We will share the flyer in next week's newsletter, and it will also be on our Facebook page. 

Morning Mischief

Mark your calendars for some fun on Halloween morning! We are planning an outdoor family event in the Lilja carpark at 10am on Sunday 31 October with a Trunk or Treat, DJ Mike, prize draws, costume parade, photo booth, food/drink, and more. Entry will be free but donations to the PTO will be welcomed. You will be able to donate via Konstella or on the day.

Click here to register.

Outdoor Lunch

Lilja will soon be able to offer outdoor lunch as an option for families who opt in! Look out for a permission slip sent home with your child in the coming week. If you sign up, your child will be able to eat lunch outdoors in the internal courtyard of the school (weather permitting), instead of inside the cafeteria.

We are still looking for more parent volunteers to help make this run as smoothly possible, so if you can commit to one day a week, or be a sub to be called on as needed, please email swasik@natickps.org ASAP! Volunteers must be fully vaccinated, be CORI checked, and be at the school between 11am and 1.30pm for their shift.

We need your help!

The PTO board is made up of just five volunteer parents, and we would really appreciate any help you can offer. If you are interested in any of the following, please contact us at pto@liljapto.org.

• Yearbook Coordinator

• Restaurant Nights Coordinator

• Book Fair Assistant Coordinator

• Cultural Arts Assistant Coordinator

If your class is still looking for a class parent, it's another great way to be involved with the school.  

Staff Spotlight: Elizabeth Gregg

What do you do at Lilja?
I teach Kindergarten, and I'm the K team leader for our professional learning community.

Can you tell us about your family?
My husband has worked at Walnut Hill School for 22 years, so though we live in Needham our hearts are often in Natick! My daughter just started college at Carleton in MN, my son is a sophomore at Needham high school and my dog Argos is largely featured in KG writing endeavors. ;)

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Exercising and reading are my main hobbies! I also really like popcorn, it's almost a hobby of mine...

You get one song to listen to for the rest of your life, what is it?
Wow that's a tough one. I'll go with Beethoven's third symphony, it's a good long one with a lot of variety!

Finish this sentence: I can't live without...
Hugs.

What's a surprising fact about you?
My children's birthdates are 5/4/03 and 8/7/06.

If you weren't at Lilja what would you be doing?
Teaching fitness, which I did for many years!

Talk to us

Whether you're a new or returning family, we would love to hear from you! If you have any questions, ideas or suggestions, or want to help us out, please contact us at pto@liljapto.org. For PTO updates outside of this newsletter, visit our website or find us on Facebook. If you have received this email in error, i.e. you no longer have children attending Lilja, please contact us at pto@liljapto.org and we can remove you from the mailing list.

Lilja PTO Newsletter (9/13/21)

Lilja PTO Newsletter (9/13/21)

We hope everyone has started to settle into the routines of the new school year. Here are some highlights from the latest school & district communications.

NPS District Newsletter (9/10)

• NO SCHOOL this Thu 16 Sep for Yom Kippur

• Vaccinated parent volunteers are needed to enable outdoor lunch options, if you are interested for Lilja please email Principal Wasik at swasik@natickps.org

• Covid pool testing is starting 9/27, symptomatic testing starts today 9/13, test and stay starts this Wednesday 9/15

Lilja Newsletter (9/10)

• Important info for families about car arrival/dismissal

• LIVE, in person Curriculum Nights are planned for next Tue 21 Sep (K-2) & Wed 22 Sep (gr 3-4)

• Lunch monitors are needed, as paid and volunteer positions

• School Council members are needed, register your interest by this Fri 10 Sep

• Reminder that dogs are not allowed on campus except for service/therapy animals

PTO Meeting 9/29

The first public PTO meeting of the year is scheduled for Wed 29 Sep, and all Lilja families are welcome to attend. The zoom meeting link will be shared in our newsletter and in our Facebook page closer to the date. All meeting dates are posted on our website liljapto.org.

Konstella

If you have not already done so, please login to Konstella.com and update your child's details with their new teacher for 2021-2022, as this will help us make sure you get the right communications for your family. If you need any help, reach out to us at pto@liljapto.org.

Morning Mischief

Mark your calendars for some fun on Halloween morning! We are planning an outdoor family event in the Lilja carpark on Sun 31 Oct with Trunk or Treat, DJ Mike, prize draws, costume parade, a photo booth, food/drink, and more. Keep an eye on upcoming newsletters for details on how to register for the T&T and get tickets to attend!

School Lunches from Natick Food Service

A reminder that you can check the monthly elementary lunch menu here if your family needs a heads up about what the options are that day so you can plan accordingly. All school lunches are free for the 2021-2022 school year.

If you have special allergy or dietary requirements, please contact kgentili@natickps.org and they will do their best to accommodate your needs.

There are also vacant positions at Natick Food Service, click here for more details.

Talk to usWhether you're a new or returning family, we would love to hear from you! If you have any questions, ideas or suggestions, or want to help us out, please contact us at pto@liljapto.org. ------ If you have received this email in error, i.e. you no longer have children attending Lilja, please contact us at pto@liljapto.org and we can remove you from the mailing list.