Spring Repairs!

It tuned out to be a beautiful day! You gotta love the sun. The playground had repairs made to it today. Over the course of the past few years, the rubberized surface has been vandalized several times. It sure is nice to have, but rather expensive to repair. The students had to stay off of it today in order for the patched areas to set. They may have to stay off tomorrow, too. It will depend on what kind of weather we have tonight. I'd like to thank all of our neighbors for their watchful eyes. Let's hope our playground won't need anymore repairs any time soon.

Look for information about July's Relay for Life coming home today. It's going to be a lot of fun. If you have any questions or simply want to join an existing team, please let me know.

Thanks,

Mr. Masucci

Extra...Extra.....Read All About It!

I hope everyone enjoyed the weekend. The next few weeks of school are going to fly by. (If you think that is wishful thinking, you're right!) I'd like to thank Mrs. Kaschak and her committee for a wonderful evening Friday. Mother/Son Movie Night was a huge success. Thanks again to Cinema South for the popcorn, LA-Z-Boy Furniture Gallery for the chairs, National City Bank for helping with our baskets and Handel's for the ice cream. Most importantly, I'd like to thank our families for attending.

April's PTO Meeting will be on Thursday, April 2, 2009 at 9:00 in the Art Room. Please plan on attending. We'll be voting for officers and listening to fundraiser ideas for the 2009-2010 school year. In addition, a representative from the American Cancer Society will be on hand to discuss the Relay for Life

A class picture of our 4th graders will be taken tomorrow, March 31st! The picture is needed for the 4th Grade Recognition. It has to be taken tomorrow in order to move forward with PTO's plans. Over the past few weeks, there has not been a day when all of our 4th graders have been here. Let's hope tomorrow is different.

Thank you,

Mr. Masucci

Congratulations!

Our school's "Doodle 4 Google" contest has officially come to an end. In all, over 30 students participated. Because of the contest's rules, our school was only able to submit 6 entries. A committee reviewed each entry and chose the top 6 designs. All of the entries were colorful and creative. Thanks to everyone who participated.

Tonight is Mother/Son Movie Night! I'm looking forward to seeing as many of our boys as possible. Bring a few extra dollars for our basket raffles! The "Splash Lagoon" basket seems like a hit. Thank you National City Bank for your help.

Enjoy the weekend.

Thanks,
Mr. Masucci

Thanks PTO!

I'd like to thank Mrs. Sabrin and her committee for another job well done! Last night's Father/Daughter Night was a huge success! Events such as this would not be possible without the tremendous support of our PTO. All who intended appeared to have a lot of fun searching for clues and solving last night's mystery.

It was nice to see so many fathers here, too. It says a lot about our school and community to have this kind of support. Be proud!

Thanks,

Mr. Masucci

Hip Hip Hooray!

It's been a busy week, but one filled with more good news! Poland North Elementary School has received a 2009 Recycling Initiative/Competitive Funding Grant from the Mahoning County Solid Waste Management Committee. Our school has been awarded $621.00 that will be used for ongoing environmental projects and to purchase materials needed for this year's very special 4th Grade Recognition.

Tonight is Father/Daughter Night! I know Mrs. Sabrin and her committee have a wonderful evening planned for our girls.

There were over 30 students who took the time to find Spike and complete his recent assignment. Each student brought home a coupon for a free pizza from Papa John's. Over the course of the year, Papa John's has been extremely supportive and donated $1,702.65 in free certificates. Thank you!

Be sure to ask about our guest today! He was fantastic!

Thank you,

Mr. Masucci

Spring has Sprung!

Signs of Spring are popping up all over! Our courtyard is full of colorful crocuses, daffodils, tulips and hyacinths. The bulbs our students planted with Mr. Roger Meyers of American Beauty Landscaping have all emerged. Everyone is beginning to see the benefits of this autumn's hard work.

There will be a state-wide tornado drill tomorrow at 9:50 a.m. Please be sure to discuss the drill with your children.

Be sure to ask about today's special guest. Author/Illustrator Martin Wach visited today!

Thank you,

Mr. Masucci

A Busy Week!

Our busy week has started out with a very busy day! I never even had the chance to see just how many students found our bulldog Spike hiding on Mr. Wesolowsky's page. I'll be sure to take care of that tomorrow! You never know where Spike will turn up next.

I'd like to thank everyone who supported our recent fundraiser. It is deeply appreciated. Given these tough economic times, it says a lot about the kind of support we are so fortunate to have here. Enjoy your goodies when they arrive.

Thank you,

Mr. Masucci

Spring has Sprung!

It's officially Spring. Allow me to remind you what comes next...........SUMMER! Keep your eyes and ears on our website for information about all of the upcoming events. It will be a very busy Spring.

Spike has gone missing again! Can you find him? He is hiding somewhere on our site. Daniel talks about his disappearance in today's message. Simply click on the play button to learn more.

Something special will be taking place on Friday, May 8th. Try to keep that evening open on your calendars. I'll provide more information soon.

Thank you,

Mr. Masucci

Take A Look!

It is a very busy time of year. With Achievement Tests right around the corner, a spring performance only a few weeks away and spring in the air, the days and weeks here are flying by. If you listened to today's little message, you know about our school's latest award. Who doesn't love a little good news from time to time?

Tomorrow is the day all Gorant Candy and Butterbraid Bread orders are due. This fundraiser does so much for our school. Please support our efforts the best you can.

More details about July's Relay for Life will be headed home soon. If you look on the left of our homepage, you'll see a link to 'Team North". If you or someone you know would like to make a donation to this worthy cause, this is probably one of the easiest ways. Our plans are still in the early stages. For now, please be sure you let me know if you and your family will participate in the event. All you need is a pair of comfortable shoes and the desire to have a little fun!

Thanks,

Mr. Masucci

Every Dog has Its Day!

For many years, our school has had a very faithful friend living right across the street. This friend's sharp eyes and pointed ears have watched over the building in good times and in bad. She's never asked for more than a pat on the back and ...well...and occasional scratch behind the ears. This friend has been slighted.

Last week an article was published in the Vindicator about Miss Speece's dog A.J. He has spent just a few weeks around the school and....BOOM!.....a little ink in the newspaper. While A.J.'s work here is admirable, I need to acknowledge our old friend.

Thank you Solitaire Viczay for your many years of service to the students of Poland North Elementary School. As far as dogs go, you are at the head of the class!

Thank you,
Mr. Masucci

Relay for Life

Information about the Relay for Life went home a few weeks ago. The response has been amazing! To make things as easy as possible, I have set up our school's team online. This will provide those who want to donate to "Team North" via the internet the ability to do so. Follow the link and join our team. (Donate here.) All proceeds will go directly to the American Cancer Society. Be sure to keep July 10th and 11th free on your calendars. The event is going to be a lot of fun. Everything will take place at PSHS. If you have any questions, please feel free to call. Spread the word, too.

Thank you,

Mr. Masucci

Nice Weather!

The weather the past few days has been wonderful. From what I hear, tomorrow is going to be even better. Let's take advantage and lace up those walking shoes. We'll walk tomorrow afternoon. Be sure to wear appropriate shoes.

In addition, students and staff are encouraged to wear green tomorrow. St. Patrick's Day is always a fun one to be around children. We'll definitely be on the look out for leprechauns. 3rd Graders will be selling popcorn tomorrow for 50 cents a bag. The profits will go toward the cost of their upcoming trip to Pittsburgh.

Congratulations to Coach Grisdale and his team for another outstanding season. Unfortunately, the Bulldogs lost by 2 points on Saturday night. It was one of the best basketball games I have ever seen. The Poland Bulldogs have much to be proud of both on and off of the court.

Thanks,

Mr. Masucci

Wow!

I am so proud of the students who attempted last night's "virtual" assignment. Over 80.....yes 80.... students took the initiative to complete it. I am thrilled. Enjoy your pizzas. You deserve them. Spike will be moving around our website more and more. Be on the lookout for more assignments like the one yesterday. I'd like to thank the parents, too. Your encouragement and support is appreciated.

There is a great article in today's Vindicator about Miss Speece's dog.

A.J. visits her room each Thursday and is very well behaved. Check out the video of one of his recent visits.

Let's hope our Poland Bulldogs can pull off one more victory and earn yet another district title. They play tomorrow night at Boardman High School. The game will begin at 6:00 p.m. I hope to see you there.

Thanks,

Mr. Masucci

Missing!

Here is a picture of our old friend Spike. I can't believe he has turned up missing again! Be sure to listen to today's message up above to find out how you can help find him.

Father/Daughter Night is coming up quickly. The evening will be filled with suspense. Those who attend will have to take the role of detective in order to solve a surprising mystery. Be sure you make plans to be here.

Please be sure to return your "Relay for Life" paper by Friday, March 20th. "Team North" continues to grow by leaps and bounds. I would love to see as many participants as possible represent our school. If you have any questions, please feel free to give me a call.

Thank you,

Mr. Masucci

Great News!

Our Poland Bulldogs managed to pull off yet another victory in tournament play. The Bulldogs defeated the Hubbard Eagles last night to advance to the District Championship on Saturday, March 14th. Coach Grisdale, the staff and players should be congratulated.

Keep your fingers crossed for more good news. Our school should hear within a few days whether or not it has received a $2,800 grant from the Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley. In November, I submitted a grant application for purchasing student response systems. The same systems were used during our Family Technology Nights and generated a lot of excitement for our students.

Thanks,

Mr. Masucci

Another Rainy Day!

Looks like the wet weather is back. Did it ever leave? The rain outside made for a calm day. Our Kindergarten and 3rd grade students practiced for their upcoming Spring Program. They sound amazing and will put on a great show. They will perform on April 7th.

There is a menu change this week. On Thursday, a turkey and cheese sub will be offered. In other, more important news, we have ourselves a new cook. Her name is Mrs. Modelski. If you happen to see her, be sure to say hello!

Thanks,
Mr. Masucci

Monday's News!

This weekend sure was a wet one. At times, it seemed as though the rain may never stop. You'll be happy to know that our building "leak free". Mr. Sofranec and I do tend to worry when that much rain falls in such a short period of time. Most of the building has a flat roof which tends to make things interesting. You may have noticed by now that I really didn't have too much to say today. Consequently, I am sharing these little known facts about rainy weather and our school's flat roof.

Thank you,

Mr. Masucci

Thanks!

I'd like to thank those able to make it out to last night's PTO meeting. I would also like to thank our two guest speakers. Mrs. Michelle Edison spoke to our group and shared wonderful information about a dance program she is affiliated with. Its goal is to teach children the importance of leading a healthy and active lifestyle. In addition, Mr. Dave Watts, President of the Poland Schools Foundations for Educational Excellence, discussed the goals and programs associated with his respected group. As a trustee of the Foundation, I can tell you just how much it does for the students of the Poland Schools. Membership information is available in the school's office.

Have a great weekend!

Thanks,
Mr. Masucci

PTO Meeting!

I hope to see as many parents as possible at tonight's PTO meeting. It will begin at 6:30 p.m. Since our last meeting was canceled due to a 2-hour delay, there is quite a bit to discuss. There will be several guests attending, too.

Tomorrow is another "blue and white" day. Let's hope our Poland Bulldogs can chalk up another victory tomorrow night at Boardman High School.

Thanks,

Mr. Masucci

Fundraiser!

Our school's spring fundraiser has begun. Your support will be deeply appreciated. I understand the difficult times we are all facing, but hope you are willing and able to support our efforts in some way. All orders, regardless of the size, will be appreciated. The sale will conclude on Friday, March 20th. If you need more information, please refer to the yellow sheet that was sent home yesterday or call the school's office.

Please plan on attending Thursday's PTO meeting. It will begin at 6:30 p.m. If you have been unable to make it to previous meetings because of your work schedule, attend Thursday's meeting.

Thank you,

Mr. Masucci

March

The month of March has arrived. Let's hope the spring weather won't be too far behind. It will be a very busy one here at school. PTO's Father/Daughter Night, Mother/Son Movie Night and the Elementary Art Show will take center stage. We'll also remain very busy inside the greenhouse. Check out the new pictures to see what's growing.

Please plan on attending PTO's monthly meeting this week. It will be held on Thursday, March 5th and begin at 6:30 p.m. I hope to see you there.

Thanks,

Mr. Masucci