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April Family Newsletter

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 20:05:13 GMT

A message from...Mr. Gavin

Hello Adelante Families!

April is an exciting and important month for our 3rd–8th grade scholars! Throughout the school year, students have been building their skills and preparing for the ILEARN assessment. In April, we take that preparation to the next level with our special Slam the Exam initiative. Slam the Exam is a focused time where scholars review, practice, and build confidence so they feel fully prepared for testing. The official ILEARN testing window runs April 21 through May 1, and we want every scholar to feel ready to shine!

To help make this successful, it is very important that scholars are present and on time every day in April. Being here consistently ensures students receive all the preparation they need and are ready for their testing days.Did you know that when scholars are present and on time, they can earn $20 in Bears Bucks to spend at our school store, the Bears Bodega? It’s a fun way to celebrate great attendance and responsibility!

Thank You for Your Support with Uniforms
We also want to give a big thank you to families for your continued support with school uniforms. This has been an important focus for us this year, and we are proud to share that our daily dress code compliance is now over 90%! Your partnership helps create a strong and focused learning environment for all scholars.

Looking Ahead: Staff Appreciation Week
As we move into May, we will be celebrating our amazing teachers and staff during Staff Appreciation Week starting May 4. Our team works incredibly hard every day to support our scholars, and we would love for families to join us in showing appreciation.

Ways you and your scholar can participate include:

Writing a thank-you note
Drawing a picture
Volunteering your time

Thank you for being such an important part of our school community. Your partnership makes a huge difference in the success of our scholars!

Onwards,

Mr. Gavin

Principal

IMPORTANT DATES

After-School Programs

GRADE LEVEL NEWS

Community Resources

Our vibrant community offers an abundance of resources and a diverse array of events designed to engage and enrich the lives of our members. From educational workshops and networking opportunities to recreational activities and cultural celebrations, there is something for everyone to enjoy and benefit from.

March Family Newsletter

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 15:09:45 GMT

IMPORTANT DATES

After-School Programs

GRADE LEVEL NEWS

Community Resources

February Family Newsletter

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 16:26:25 GMT

Hello, Emma Donnan Families,

February is full of moments worth celebrating across our school community! We are incredibly proud of two of our 8th grade boys basketball players who earned spots on the district All-Star Team—an exciting honor that reflects their hard work and dedication. This week, we’re also cheering on one of our 3rd graders and one of our 4th graders as they represent our school at the district spelling bee. Throughout the month, we are excited to honor and celebrate Black History Month, recognizing the powerful contributions, achievements, and history that continue to shape our school and world.

Looking ahead, IREAD testing for our 2nd and 3rd grade students will take place during the first week of March. Families can help support their students by ensuring they arrive at school on time each day so they are settled and able to eat breakfast before testing begins. Making sure students go to bed on time will help them come to school well-rested and ready to focus. Finally, a few words of positive encouragement before sending them off can go a long way in helping students feel confident and prepared to do their best.

Thank you for your continued support!

Adelante,

Mr. Gavin

Principal

IMPORTANT DATES

After-School Programs

GRADE LEVEL NEWS

Community Resources

January Family Newsletter

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 13:24:17 GMT

Welcome Back!

We hope you enjoyed a restful holiday break. We’re excited to welcome our scholars back as we kick off Semester 2 and head into the second half of the school year.

As we move forward, we want to share how we’re responding to feedback from our recent Family Satisfaction Survey.

We’re focusing on clearer, more consistent communication with families—highlighting both student successes and areas for growth—and being more proactive in sharing updates on student progress.

We’re thrilled to have scholars back in the building and can’t wait to see all they accomplish this semester.

Adelante,

Mr. Gavin

Principal

IMPORTANT DATES

ATHLETICS

GRADE LEVEL NEWS

Community Resources

December Family Newsletter

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 17:53:17 GMT

A Message from Mrs. Kuruzar...

Dear Emma Donnan Families,

As we wrap up 2025 and look ahead to the new year, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt thanks for your participation in our Family Satisfaction Survey back in October. Your input is invaluable in helping us understand what’s working well and where we can continue to improve.

We’ve thoroughly reviewed the data, and we’re excited to share that, once again, we’ve exceeded our goal of achieving 80% overall satisfaction—with an incredible 93% of families reporting they are satisfied with their experience at Emma Donnan! This is a tremendous accomplishment, and we couldn’t have done it without your support.

In addition, we were especially pleased to see a noticeable increase in responses related to our core question 2 about teachers and staff caring for students. It’s clear that our efforts to build meaningful connections between students and staff are making a positive impact. This feedback gives us even more motivation to continue fostering an environment where every child feels supported, valued, and cared for.

As we move into the new year, we are already hard at work analyzing the survey results and planning our next steps based on your feedback. We look forward to sharing those updates with you in the coming months and continuing to work together to make Emma Donnan an even better place for our students.

Thank you once again for your time, your input, and your ongoing commitment to our school community.

Wishing you and your family a joyful holiday season, and we can’t wait to continue this journey with you in 2026!

Warmly,
Mrs. Kuruzar

Director of Engagement

BIG NEWS!

Adelante @ Emma Donnan Earns Massive Grant

For over a year, our team has been working on an application for a grant from The Lilly Endowment Inc., and this week we found out that we were one of the schools selected.

We were awarded $ 14.4 million, which will drive a massive investment in our school community. These funds will be used to increase access to programs, make additional building upgrades, including to the gym, and add a performance space. Learn more about the investments we're making by clicking below to read the blog post.

Happening this Month

Upcoming Events

Winter Celebration Family Event

Wednesday, December 11, 2026

5:30 - 7:00

Join us for a delightful evening of crafting and a winter holiday celebration! We’ll have winter-themed crafts, delicious hot chocolate, cookie decorating, and a special visit from the BIG guy himself. We hope you’ll join us for some winter fun from 5:30 - 7:00 PM on December 11th!

Please enter through Door 10. Families that attend will be entered into a raffle for a special Holiday Gift Basket.

Add the event to your calendar using one of the buttons below!

Enrolling for the 26-27 School Year

Do you have a friend or family member looking for a school for their child?

We are currently enrolling for the 2026–2027 school year! Share with them the things that make you say “yes” to Emma Donnan.

Interested families can complete the Enroll Indy application to claim their seat. Be sure to enroll before January 29th to secure a spot.

As a thank-you, families who refer a student who enrolls will be entered to win a gift card to our uniform shop! Just let the front office know that you referred someone.

Reminder for 8th Grade Families: If you have an 8th grader, you will also need to complete the Enroll Indy application for their high school placement for next year.

Bears Bodega

Students are loving our Bears Bodega Positive Incentive Store! Every day, they earn Bears Bucks for demonstrating our core values, maintaining good attendance, and coming to school in uniform. Once a month, students get to spend their hard-earned Bucks at the Bears Bodega, choosing from a variety of fun and meaningful items.

Not only are they rewarding themselves for making positive choices, but they’re also gaining valuable financial literacy skills—learning to save, budget, and make smart purchasing decisions.

Scholars will shop at the Bears Bodega again on December 12th. Ask your child how they are earning their Bears Bucks!

Holiday Assistance Update

We are incredibly thankful for our generous donors who contributed to our Holiday Assistance Program. Thanks to your support, we can sponsor over 200 students this holiday season!

If your family is sponsored through the program, please mark your calendars for pick-up on December 15th–16th. Pick-up times are listed below.

December 15th - 7:45 AM - 9:30 AM OR 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM
December 16th - 7:45 AM - 9:30 AM OR 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Each family will receive their sponsored items, a bag to fill at our Holiday Shop, and a bag of non-perishable items.

Please note: Any items not picked up during the scheduled pick-up windows will be donated back to the program for the next school year. Items cannot be held.

Updates/Reminders

New Team Member: Director of Academic Collaboration Team

ATHLETICS

What's Happening?

Our objective is to keep you informed about the topics that teachers are focusing on in the classroom and how you can support their learning journey at home. Be sure to check our What's Happening section each month for the latest updates!

Visit our website for academic resources to support your scholar at home!

Community Resources

Adelante Schools Secures Major Lilly Endowment Inc. Funding to Advance Instruction, Improve Learning Environments, and Fund Educator Advancement

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 19:16:22 GMT

Strengthening Academic Pathways Through Strategic Investment in Students and Staff

Adelante Schools Inc. has received a $14,400,000 grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. through its Marion County K-12 Public Schools Initiative. This is one of 34 large-scale implementation grants being awarded through phase 3 of the initiative, which is designed to help strengthen the academic achievement of students in Indianapolis and improve their prospects for success after high school.

With the grant, Emma Donnan Elementary and Middle School will launch a comprehensive, five-year initiative that strengthens academic programming, expands instructional capacity, and transforms key student-facing spaces to support rigorous learning. The project will deepen science and social studies instruction, build long-term systems for coaching and data use, and fund advanced degrees, licensure pathways, and job-aligned credentials for teachers and staff so they can further their education at no personal cost.

It will also modernize the school’s cafeteria, gymnasium, and arts and wellness spaces to remove long-standing barriers to student achievement and expand opportunities for performance, physical activity, and family engagement. Together, these efforts advance Adelante Schools’ mission to provide an unparalleled K–8 experience that prepares every scholar to thrive in Indiana’s high school pathways and pursue strong post-secondary options.

Leadership at Adelante Schools emphasized that this funding represents a major step forward for the community. Edward Rangel, CEO, stated, “This grant allows us to create the learning conditions our students deserve. By expanding rigorous instruction, improving key school spaces, and supporting our teachers as they further their education, we are building a stronger pathway to long-term student success.”

Speaking to how the grant advances the school’s mission, Jordan Habayeb, COO, explained, “Adelante Schools is laser-focused on ensuring that our students leave K through 8 ready to excel in Indiana’s innovative high school pathways. This funding will fuel the innovation needed to make that vision a reality.”

Adelante Schools received a $220,500 implementation grant from Lilly Endowment in June 2025 through phase 2 of the Marion County K-12 Public School Initiative.

About Lilly Endowment

Lilly Endowment Inc. is an Indianapolis-based private foundation created in 1937 by J.K. Lilly, Sr. and his sons Eli and J.K. Jr. through gifts of stock in their pharmaceutical business, Eli Lilly and Company. Although the gifts of stock remain a financial bedrock of the Endowment, it is a separate entity from the company, with a distinct governing board, staff and location. In keeping with the founders’ wishes, the Endowment supports the causes of community development, education and religion. The Endowment funds programs throughout the United States, especially in the field of religion, and maintains a special commitment to its founders’ hometown, Indianapolis, and home state, Indiana.

About Adelante Schools

Adelante Schools is a K–8 public charter school and Indianapolis Public Schools Innovation School serving more than 450 scholars from seven zip codes across the southside of Indianapolis. With a focus on rigorous instruction, whole-child supports, and fresh, scratch-made meals, Adelante is redefining what families can expect from public education. The school is committed to delivering an exceptional scholar and family experience every day.

November Family Newsletter

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 16:40:00 GMT

Dear Adelante Families,

We’re writing to share an important update about school safety.

Over the past several months, we’ve engaged with numerous stakeholders — including staff, families, and safety professionals — to review how we can best protect our scholars and team. After thoughtful discussion and consideration, we made the decision to install OpenGate weapon-detection systems at our arrival entry and in the main office.

We know this was a challenging decision. Balancing our warm, welcoming culture with the realities of school safety isn’t easy. But after hearing from experts, local partners, and members of our community, we’re confident that this is the right step given today’s climate.

Our goal remains unchanged: to ensure every scholar feels safe, supported, and seen from the moment they arrive each morning.

What’s Changing

Starting on Thursday, 11/6, and being rolled out over the next week, all scholars and visitors will pass through a new OpenGate detection system upon entering the building.
The technology is discreet and fast — most people walk through without even noticing.
This system is designed to detect weapons, not to disrupt learning or delay arrival.

Helping Arrival Run Smoothly

To help arrival move as quickly as possible, please talk with your scholar about holding their Chromebook or iPad in their hand as they enter the building.
These are the only items that cannot go through the system and must be carried separately.
Everything else — backpacks, lunchboxes, coats — can go through normally.
Having devices in hand will keep lines moving efficiently and help our mornings stay calm and positive.

Why We’re Doing This

School safety continues to be a priority across the country.
After reviewing our safety procedures and exploring multiple options, this technology offered the best combination of effectiveness, efficiency, and privacy.
We remain committed to keeping our school welcoming, not intimidating.

What Families Can Expect

Arrival procedures and entry doors will remain the same.
Our team will guide scholars through calmly and efficiently — typically without any delay.
You may see new equipment near the entrance and in the main office starting next week.
Visitors will continue to check in at the main office as usual.

Privacy & Dignity

OpenGate does not use facial recognition and does not record or store images.
The system only detects potential threats in real time.
We have carefully reviewed the vendor’s privacy standards and procedures to ensure this technology aligns with our values.

Our Commitment

This update is one part of our ongoing investment in the safety and well-being of every Adelante scholar. We are also continuing to strengthen our mental health supports, arrival and dismissal procedures, and staff training to ensure our safety culture is proactive, not reactive.

Learn More

We will host a short family info session and demonstration. You’ll have a chance to see how the technology works, ask questions, and hear from our operations team about how we’re keeping arrival smooth and welcoming.

Thank you for your continued trust and partnership. Every decision we make — especially the hard ones — comes back to our shared commitment to scholar safety and peace of mind for families.

Warmly,

Jordan Habayeb Darin Mercer

Chief Operating Officer Safety & Attendance Officer

Adelante Schools Adelante Schools

October in Pictures

Happening this Month

Upcoming Events

Gobble Gathering

We are excited to invite families to attend our annual Gobbling Gathering on Friday, November 21st during your child’s lunch period. A delicious fall meal will be served for you to enjoy with your student. To ensure we can accommodate everyone, each student is limited to 2 guests. Please use the link below to reserve your seat! Registration closes on Thursday, November 14.

Onward to High School: Helping 8th Graders Plan for the Future

Our 8th graders participated in a High School Fair on October 29. We hosted over 10 area high schools to share information about their programs and help students explore potential career pathways and the best school options for them.

Following the event, scholars were able to indicate which high schools they are most interested in learning more about. Later in November , they will visit one of these schools for High School Shadow Day , giving them the chance to see the programs in action and put what they learned into a visual, real-world context.

As a reminder, the Enroll Indy Round 1 window opens on November 5 . Scholars are more likely to get their first-choice school when they complete their application during Round 1. If you need assistance with the Enroll Indy process, please reach out to our Recruitment and Enrollment Coordinator, Mr. Breedlove .

December Events

Penguin Holiday Shop - 12/1/25- 12/5/25

Our students will have the chance to shop for the holidays for their family and friends at our Penguin Holiday Shop. We provide over 100 unique gifts, with prices starting as low as $.25 and reaching up to $12 each. This month, each student will receive a letter detailing the shop and a budget envelope for their gift list. They must return the envelope to school on their designated shopping day. Homeroom teachers will communicate the specific shopping days for their classrooms.

Winter Create and Celebrate Family Event - 12/11/25

Join us for a delightful evening of crafting and celebrating the winter holidays! We’ll have winter-themed crafts, delicious hot chocolate, cookie decorating, and a special visit from the BIG guy himself. We hope you’ll join us for some winter fun from 5:30 - 7:00 PM on December 11th!

Support During SNAP Benefit Challenges

We understand that this may be a challenging time for families who receive SNAP benefits. Please know that we are here to support you in any way we can.

Below are some resources available to help:

Sign up for meals through our Take it to Go Program
Use Community Compass to locate food resources
Students are provided breakfast and lunch everyday at school.
Visit our food box located at Door 1 next to the benches.

If you need help connecting with any of these resources, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We are committed to supporting every family in our community.

Holiday Assistance Update

Our Holiday Assistance Registration is now closed. We are excited to share that over 120 families will be sponsored this holiday season! Families will be notified later this month regarding their sponsorship status.

It is critical that families complete any required information related to Holiday Assistance in a timely manner so we can share accurate details with sponsors.

Holiday Assistance pick-up will take place on December 15th and 16th. Each family will receive their sponsored items, a bag to fill in our Holiday Shop, and a bag of non-perishable food items.

Updates/Reminders

After-School Clubs

Our first session of clubs is almost over! All clubs will conclude during the week of November 17.

We will host a Club Showcase on Wednesday, November 20, from 3:00 PM – 3:40 PM and invite families to come see what your scholar has been learning this session. Even if your scholar did not participate in a club, you are welcome to join and learn more!

Additionally, we are offering a special one-week club for 4th–8th graders called Self Care: Intentional Steps for Your Mind, Body, and Emotions . This club focuses on reducing stress, supporting mental health, building coping skills, and encouraging mindfulness. It will take place from Monday, December 1 through Friday, December 5, from 2:30 PM – 3:40 PM .

Please sign up using the link below.

New Director of Culture

Our new Dean of Culture joined our team after fall break. In this role, Mr. Christopher Crowder works with students, staff, and families to encourage respectful behavior, build community, resolve conflicts, and promote school pride. His goal is to ensure every student feels valued, supported, and ready to thrive.

Mr. Crowder brings seven years of experience in education to our school.

Please read a message from him below.

"I’m passionate about building a welcoming and supportive community where students, staff, and families feel connected, valued, and empowered.

In my role, I focus on fostering collaboration, respect, and a shared commitment to our school’s mission of excellence and equity . I’m excited to work alongside all of you to celebrate and strengthen the positive culture that makes our school such a special place."

Attendance

Students who achieved perfect attendance were rewarded with $20 Bears Bucks to spend in the Bears Bodega. The Bears Bodega is our school store where student can shop twice a month for school supplies, school swag, homework passes, in-school experiences and more.

As the cold weather approaches, it's important to note that attendance often declines significantly during this time, as seen last year. Please make every effort to ensure your students attend school consistently throughout the winter season. If your student is in need of hats, gloves or a coat, please complete our Assistance Form, located at the beginning of tis newsletter.

One last reminder, with Thanksgiving break on the horizon, we kindly ask you not to extend the break by allowing your student an extra day off at either end. These additional days can accumulate and detract from your student's learning experience. we will have a synchronous remote learning day on Monday, November 24 and an asynchronous remote learning day on Tuesday, November 25. Classes resume in-person on December 1st.

Athletics - Show Your School Spirit

We invite all of our families to come out and cheer on our students during the Boys Basketball , Futsal , and Cheerleading seasons!

Nothing shows school pride like stands full of fans supporting our teams — your energy makes a big difference!

Check our the calendar in our newsletter for dates, times and locations of games.

Essential Reminders for All Events:

All students must be accompanied by an adult to attend.
Students who are absent or suspended on the day of the event are not permitted to attend.

Want to Get Involved?
We’re looking for volunteers to serve as sporting event greeters and hallway monitors. If you’re interested, please reach out to Mr. Keys to sign up or learn more.

Let’s make this season safe, spirited, and unforgettable. See you in the stands!

Emma Donnan's Parent Hub

Couldn’t make it to a school event? Misplaced the flyer from the Back to School Bash? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered!

We created the Parent Hub as a one-stop shop for all the important information our families need. If you missed a family event or lost a flyer, you can now access all the information digitally in one easy place.

Stay informed, stay connected—visit the Parent Hub today!

What's Happening?

Visit our website for academic resources to support your scholar at home!

Community Resources

October Family Newsletter

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 15:47:41 GMT

September in Pictures

Happening this Month

Upcoming Events

Fall Festival - October 23rd

We are excited to welcome our families to join us for a fun-filled evening at our Fall Festival!

Date: October 23rd
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Emma Donnan Elementary and Middle School

Join us for:

Trunk or Treat
S’mores
Games & Prizes
Costumes encouraged – come dressed in your Halloween best! Please note that Halloween costumes can not be worn to school on this day or on Halloween.

It’s going to be a spook-tacular time — we can’t wait to see you there!

Onward to High School: Helping 8th Graders Plan for the Future

Our 8th graders have officially kicked off their journey with the Onward to High School program! In the first two sessions, students took a Matchmaker Assessment to explore career pathways that align with their strengths and interests. Using this insight, they then explored local high school options through our High School Matrix—researching which schools offer the programs and opportunities that best match their goals and priorities.

Coming up on October 29, local high schools will visit Emma Donnan to meet with our students. This is a valuable opportunity for students to ask questions, learn more about specific schools, and begin preparing for the high school application process, which opens through Enroll Indy on November 5.

We’re excited to support your student as they make thoughtful, informed choices about their next big step!

Family Satisfaction Survey - Opens October 22

At Emma Donnan, your voice matters. Over the past five years, your feedback through our Family Satisfaction Survey has led to real improvements—like stronger school-to-home communication, expanded after-school programming, more field trip opportunities, and so much more.

On October 22nd, families will receive an invitation to complete this year’s Family Satisfaction Survey. This short survey is your opportunity to share your experiences—what’s working well and where we can grow.

As a token of our appreciation for your continued partnership, all families who complete the survey will be entered into a giveaway.

Let’s keep working together to make Emma Donnan the best it can be!

Family Conference Day - Sign-ups Open!

In-person family conferences will take place the week of October 20–24 at the following times:

Monday–Thursday: 2:30 PM – 4:10 PM
Friday: 7:10 AM – 4:10 PM

These conferences are an important opportunity to connect with your child’s homeroom teacher, discuss academic progress, and work together to support their success. We value your partnership and encourage every family to attend.

Please note:

Friday, October 24 is a remote learning day for students.
Students will not be on campus for class.
All classwork will be assigned online and will count as homework.
If possible, we encourage you to bring your child with you to the conference so they can be part of the conversation.

If you need help signing up, please call the front office — we’re happy to assist!

Holiday Assistance Program

With the generous support of our community and local partners, Emma Donnan is proud to offer a Holiday Assistance Program to support families in need during the Christmas season.

This program has grown in popularity, and spots are limited. To ensure we can support those most engaged in our school community, families must meet the following eligibility criteria:

Student has a 90% or higher attendance rate
Student is enrolled at our school
Student has all enrollment documents submitted.

Please note: Submitting an interest form does not guarantee a spot . It simply indicates your interest in participating. Final selections will be made based on eligibility and available resources.

Registration will open on October 22nd.

We are thankful to be able to offer this support and appreciate your partnership as we work to make the holidays brighter for our school community.

Updates

After-School Clubs

We are thrilled to announce the launch of 12 clubs this fall, with over 125 students ready to participate! Clubs began the week of September 22nd and will wrap up on November 20th with our exciting club showcase. If your student is involved in a club, please remember to mark your calendar for the showcase on November 20th from 3:00 PM to 3:40 PM.

Dismissal for clubs will take place from 3:40 PM to 3:50 PM. We kindly ask that you arrive on time to pick up your scholar. Timely pick-ups help our staff complete their daily responsibilities and return home to their families without delay.

If your scholar missed the chance to sign up for a club but is still interested, please contact Mrs. Kuruzar. We still have seats available in several clubs.

SEL Survey for Students

Did you know that your scholar engages in a monthly Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Survey? This survey provides an opportunity for your scholar to express their experiences in class, reflect on their emotions and overall well-being, and assess their sense of belonging and peer relationships. The insights gained from this data are invaluable for our school team as we strive to foster an environment that supports our students.

Our scholars in grades 3 through 8 recently completed their September SEL Survey, and the majority reported feeling supported by our staff and teachers. Furthermore, they exhibit a high level of self-awareness and reflection regarding their emotions and well-being.

As a school, we analyze this data and collaborate closely with our Student Council to ensure that we create a safe and inclusive environment for all our students.

If you are interested in learning more about Social Emotional Learning, click the button below.

General Reminders

School Uniform Policy

At Emma Donnan Elementary and Middle School, we believe that maintaining a consistent uniform supports a focused learning environment for all our students, and our uniform policy reflects our core values:

Ownership: We own the culture that we create, not as a “gotcha”, but as a shared commitment to the systems that guide how we operate
Swing: We are one team, and like any team, we have a uniform that represents who we are and what we value
Optimism: We believe the future is bright and want to prepare our scholars for the future jobs they will obtain, which will require them to dress for success
Solidarity : We are one human family that leads with equity and believes scholars should not be distracted by who is wearing which new designer labels

All scholars are required to wear a complete Adelante Uniform each day. You can find the guidelines for our uniform policy on page 30 of our Scholar and Family Handbook.

As temperatures begin to drop, sweatshirts and jackets that are not part of the Adelante/Emma Donnan attire cannot be worn inside the school building. Scholars may wear these garments beneath their school shirt, but their outermost layer must be an Emma Donnan/Adelante shirt.

Athletics

Futsal Tryouts

Students interested in trying out for the Middle School Futsal Team must:

Sign up through After-School HQ
Meet athlete eligibility requirements
Sign-ups close October 3rd.
Tryouts are on October 8th from 2:30 to 3:40

Elementary and Middle School Cheerleading Tryouts

Students interested in trying out for the Elementary Cheerleading Team must:

Sign up through After-School HQ
Meet athlete eligibility requirements
Sign-ups close October 3rd.
Tryouts are on October 7th from 2:30 to 3:40

Middle School Cheerleading tryouts will be postponed until after fall break. Tryout registration will open October 8th. Tryouts will take place on October 21st.

Show Your School Spirit – Support Our Student Athletes!

We invite all of our families to come out and cheer on our students during the Boys Basketball , Futsal , and Cheerleading seasons!

Nothing shows school pride like stands full of fans supporting our teams — your energy makes a big difference!

Check our school calendar for the schedules!

Essential Reminders for All Events:

All students must be accompanied by an adult to attend.
Students who are absent or suspended on the day of the event are not permitted to attend.

Want to Get Involved?
We’re looking for volunteers to serve as sporting event greeters and hallway monitors. If you’re interested, please reach out to Mr. Keys to sign up or learn more.

Let’s make this season safe, spirited, and unforgettable. See you in the stands!

Emma Donnan's Parent Hub

Couldn’t make it to a school event? Misplaced the flyer from the Back to School Bash? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered!

Stay informed, stay connected—visit the Parent Hub today!

What's Happening?

Visit our website for academic resources to support your scholar at home!

Community Resources

September Family Newsletter

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 14:22:16 GMT

July & August in Pictures

Happening this Month

Upcoming Events

Fall After School Clubs - Sign-Ups End Friday, 9/5

We’re looking forward to a new session of Fall Clubs! Club sign-ups are now open through September 5th. We’re excited to offer a mix of returning favorites and some fun, new options this season.

Notification letters for club placements will be shared the week of September 15th, and clubs will begin the week of September 22nd.

Be sure to save the date for our Club Showcase on November 19th from 3:00–3:45 PM!

Scholastic Book Fair Starts September 8th

The Scholastic Book Fair will be open for students during the week of September 8th! Each classroom will have an assigned preview day and shopping day, which your child’s teacher will communicate to you.

On their preview day, students will bring home a wishlist to share with you before their shopping day. If you plan to send money with your student, please place it in an envelope with their name clearly written. You can also set up an eWallet for your child to use at the book fair. Visit our book fair page linked below to create an account and fund your child’s eWallet.

We look forward to a fun and exciting week of reading!

Progress Reports - September 10th

Progress Reports will be sent home with students on Wednesday, September 10th. These reports provide a snapshot of how your child is doing midway through the grading period, including academic performance, classroom behavior, and areas for growth.

Please take time to review your child’s report and contact their teacher if you have any questions. Progress Reports are a great opportunity to stay informed and work together to support your child’s success before final grades are given.

Reminder! You can also access grades anytime by using the PowerSchool app.

Literacy and Social Studies Night - September 11th, 5:30 - 7:00 PM -

Come explore the exciting world of learning at our Literacy and Social Studies Night! Families can shop the Scholastic Book Fair, discover how to use online learning platforms at home to support reading and academic growth, and get a first look at our new Social Studies curriculum – TCI. It’s a fun and informative evening designed to help families support student success both in and out of the classroom.

During this event, our Scholastic Book Fair will be open for shopping and dinner will be provided.

Picture Day - September 16th

Picture Day will take place on Tuesday, September 16th. Students may wear attire of their choice on this day.

An order form will be sent home with your scholar prior to Picture Day if you’d like to purchase photos. Please keep an eye out for this form and return it by the date listed on the envelope or order online. To order online, follow the link below and enter code: 6176ZMMXZJADMC.

We can’t wait to see all those smiling faces!

Updates

Birthdays!

We love celebrating our students’ birthdays at school! To make sure everyone gets a special moment, we recognize all student birthdays with a school-wide treat at the end of each month.

This celebration is also the designated time when students may bring in individual items (such as pre-packaged snacks or small treats) to celebrate with their classmates. If your child would like to bring something in, we kindly ask that:

Items are brought in on the specific monthly celebration date listed below:

September Birthdays - 9/26/25
October Birthdays - 10/31/25
November Birthdays - 11/21/25
December Birthdays - 12/18/25
January Birthdays - 1/30/26
February Birthdays - 2/27/26
March Birthdays - 3/27/26
April Birthdays - 4/24/26
May/June/Birthdays - 5/15/26

Treats follow our school's wellness guidelines (nut-free, pre-packaged, and portion-appropriate)

While sweet treats are always fun, non-food options are even better! Consider sending in small items like:

Stickers or pencils
Fun erasers or bookmarks
Mini coloring books or party favors

These items are festive, safe for all students, and last longer than a cupcake!

Amplify Math Study

Each year, we grow our academic programming to better serve your child's academic needs. This year, we are starting a math intervention program for every scholar. Taught by teachers, your child will have daily additional support in mathematics to support their unique needs and track their growth. We are partnering with Amplify (the provider of Math & Science curricula) in a study to pilot assessments to (1) diagnose what your scholar needs most and (2) track their progress on those skills over time.

If you have questions about your child's role in this pilot study, please reach out to Matthew Rooney, Chief Mathematics Officer, by email at mrooney@adelanteschools.org . If, for any reason, you do not wish your scholar to participate, an opt out form is attached.

We are excited to be able to provide your child with help in the specific unique areas they need support. We look forward to continuing to build your scholar's academic mastery and confidence. Thank you!

General Reminders

School Uniform Policy

Ownership: We own the culture that we create, not as a “gotcha”, but as a shared commitment to the systems that guide how we operate
Swing: We are one team, and like any team, we have a uniform that represents who we are and what we value
Optimism: We believe the future is bright and want to prepare our scholars for the future jobs they will obtain, which will require them to dress for success
Solidarity : We are one human family that leads with equity and believes scholars should not be distracted by who is wearing which new designer labels

When the uniform policy is not followed, students will receive an infraction. Consequences are based on the number and severity of offenses and may include:

A verbal reminder
Lunch detention
In-School Suspension (ISS)
A parent meeting (may be requested)

Athletics

Elementary and Middle School Boys Basketball

Tryouts for the upcoming boys basketball season will take place at the end of the month:

Elementary School: Thursday, September 25
Middle School: Friday, September 26
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:45 PM

o participate, students must meet all eligibility requirements listed on the registration form. Be sure to review and complete all necessary steps in advance.

K-3 Basketball Clinic

The K–3 Basketball Clinics will begin on Friday, September 5, and run every Friday from 2:30 PM to 3:40 PM through October 10.

Limited spots available – Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Want to help out?
We’re looking for volunteers to support the clinics! More volunteers = more spots for students. If you're interested in helping, please get in touch with Mr. Keys .

K-3 Cheerleading Clinic

Our K–3 Cheer Clinics begin on Friday, September 26, and run every Friday from 2:30 PM to 3:40 PM through November 7.

Limited spots available – Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Volunteers Needed! More volunteers mean more spots for students! If you’re interested in helping, please get in touch with Mr. Keys.
Clinic Performance: Participants will perform during halftime at one of the Boys’ Home Basketball games this season!

Adult and Child Acute Care

We partner with Adult & Child not only for mental health services but also for primary care! Through their collaboration with Emma Donnan, healthcare is more accessible for our families.

Our school nurse, Sonia Coleman, evaluates student symptoms and can determine if a virtual acute care visit with a primary care physician is needed. If so, that visit is just a phone call away! We can even assist in scheduling a virtual visit if your child is absent due to illness, making it easier than ever to get the care they need from home.

To help the process move quickly if you ever need care, reach out to our school nurse to receive a consent form to complete. This form will be kept on file and will make scheduling appointments much faster.

If you have any questions about this service, please don’t hesitate to contact Nurse Sonia Coleman.

What's Happening?

Visit our website for academic resources to support your scholar at home!

Community Resources

May Family Newsletter

lkuruzar@adelanteschools.org (Leah Kuruzar) — Thu, 08 May 2025 18:22:30 GMT

A Message From...

March in Pictures

Upcoming Events

Happening this Month

We are so excited for our K–5 Field Day on May 19th! This is a great opportunity for students to get outside, stay active, and have fun with their classmates. Please review the important details below:

Field Day Details & Reminders:

Class Color Accessories: Each homeroom will be assigned a specific color. Scholars are encouraged to wear that color and accessorize their outfit with that color!

Examples: Shirts, headbands, socks, shorts, sunglasses, hats, etc. (Accessories must be school-appropriate.)

Kindergarten(IU )- Red
Kindergarten( Miami) - Gray and Black
First (UINDY) - Maroon
First (Michigan) - Gold
Second (UPenn) - Navy
Second (Xavier) -White
Third (FAMU) - Green
Third (Florida) -Orange
Fourth (TSU) - Blue
Fourth (Ball State) - Red
Fifth (Purdue) - Gold and Black
Fifth (DePauw) - Yellow

Stay Hydrated:

Please send your child with a reusable water bottle. Water refill stations will be available throughout the day.

Volunteers Welcome:

Immediate or extended family members (e.g., grandparents, aunts, uncles) are welcome to volunteer for Field Day!

If you’d like to help out, please sign up here.

Dress Code Reminder: Scholars may wear athletic shorts or pants on Field Day.

Shorts must:

Be at least 4 inches above the knee
Have no cut-offs, biker shorts, or rips
Fit appropriately around the waist

Please note: Students must come dressed for Field Day—there will be no opportunity to change at school.

We can’t wait to celebrate a fun, active day with your scholars!

Also 6-8 graders will not have a Field Day this school year. They will be participate in end of the year trips instead.

Important Due Dates

Library Books Due – May 9th

All library books are due by Friday, May 9th . To make things fun, Mrs. Bernacchi is hosting a competition! The first homeroom to return ALL their books on time will win a Dog Man & Donuts party! Don’t miss out, get those books turned in!

Device Collection – May 19th

Ms. Homburg will be collecting all student devices on Monday, May 19th.

Prior to turning in their device, scholars should remove any stickers that have been placed on the device or case. Please assistance your scholar in doing this at home.

Scholars will need to be sure to bring their device and charger to school on May 19th to turn in.

If you have any questions, please reach out to Ms. Homburg.

Digital Healthy Habits Workshops- Final Session

Join us for the final session of our Digital Healthy Habits Workshop as we focus on preparing for a Limited Tech Summer and getting ready for the 2025–2026 school year!

Workshop Highlights:

Topic: Limited Tech Summer & Back-to-School Preparation
Date: Tuesday, May 13th
Time: 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Location: Emma Donnan

What to Expect:

Guest speakers sharing free or low-cost summer programs
Academic resources to help avoid the "summer slide"
A PowerSchool Parent Tutorial to help you start the next school year strong
Breakfast will be served
All participants will receive a FREE summer activity bag for their scholar!

We hope to see you there for this informative and supportive session to help your family finish the year strong and prepare for a successful summer.

New Uniforms Options Coming Soon!

We’re excited to announce that new uniform options are being added to our school store! Thanks to input from our Student Council, we’ve created fresh designs and colors that let students express themselves while still fostering a strong sense of school community.

New styles will be available later this month , so keep an eye on the school store!

Important Reminder:

To ensure your scholar receives their new uniform tops before the first day of school , place your order by July 15th .
Don’t wait until the last minute—order early to avoid delays!

Yearbooks Still Available

There’s still time to purchase a 2024–2025 school yearbook!

Yearbooks can be ordered online and w ill be shipped directly to your home.

Don’t miss out on the chance to capture and remember all the memories from this school year!

What's Happening?

Visit our website for academic resources to support your scholar at home!

Community Resources

April Family Newsletter

lkuruzar@adelanteschools.org (Leah Kuruzar) — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 14:26:05 GMT

Dear Emma Donnan Families,

Spring is here, and with it comes one of the most important times of the school year—testing season! Throughout the month of April, our 3rd-8th grade scholars will be engaged in statewide assessments that allow us to measure their academic growth and ensure they are on track for success.

To help our scholars perform at their very best, we need your support! Here’s how you can help set them up for success during this crucial time:

✅ Ensure Your Child Arrives on Time – Testing begins promptly in the morning, and late arrivals may have to wait for a make-up session. Please help your scholar starts their day smoothly by getting them to school on time!

�� Prioritize Rest & Routine – A well-rested mind is a sharp mind! We encourage families to establish an early bedtime to ensure students get at least 8-10 hours of sleep each night.

�� Send a Note of Encouragement – A few words of encouragement can make a world of difference! We invite families to write a short letter or note to their child before testing day. This could be a simple message reminding them that they are prepared, capable, and supported. A note tucked into their backpack or lunchbox can boost their confidence and brighten their day!

�� Encourage & Motivate – A positive attitude goes a long way! Remind your child that they are ready and capable. Let’s celebrate their hard work and help them approach testing with confidence!

We know our scholars have been working hard all year, and this is their time to shine! Thank you for your partnership in making sure our students are ready, rested, and confident for this testing season.

As always, we appreciate your support in making Emma Donnan a place where every scholar thrives!

With gratitude,

Ms. Randle

March in Pictures

Upcoming Events

Happening this Month

Safety Matters

As the weather warms up this April, many students will be riding their bikes to school. For your safety, always ride with the flow of traffic. This makes you more visible to drivers and helps prevent accidents. Additionally, when biking near school zones, be extra cautious and slow down, as there may be more pedestrians and vehicles around.

We have a bike rack located at Door 8 where students can securely store their bikes during the school day. Be sure to bring a lock to keep your bike safe while you're inside. Remember, it's also important to wear a helmet, follow traffic signals, and use bike lanes when available. Stay safe and enjoy your ride

Digital Health Habits Workshops

Our first Digital Healthy Habits Workshop was a great success! During the workshop, parents had the opportunity to learn how to support their scholars at home with homework using tools like Schoology, IXL, and Zearn. It was inspiring to see families engage and gain valuable insights into how they can help their children thrive academically. We are incredibly grateful for the partnership we have with our families, as working together is key to ensuring the success of our scholars. Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to making this event such a success.

Our next Digital Healthy Habits Workshop is scheduled for April 22nd from 5:30 to 6:30 PM. This session will focus on important topics like internet safety and cyberbullying, helping families better navigate the digital world and protect their children online. In addition, we will be sharing the results of research that IU Health has been conducting in partnership with Patachou on the impact of sugary beverages and food. We look forward to discussing these findings and gathering input from families on the next steps. Dinner will be provided during the session, and we encourage everyone to join us for this informative and engaging event. We’re excited to continue working together to support the well-being of our scholars! RSVP is required.

After-School Activities

Our Spring sport seasons are starting! Be sure to check our school calendar and come to cheer on the Bears at an upcoming game!
K-3 Soccer Clinics start Friday, April 4th.
Mark your calendars for our After-School Club Showcase on May 5th! All families are invited to see what our scholars are learned in their clubs this session.

Emma Donnan Yearbook - Last Chance!

Get Your 2024-2025 Yearbook Now – Only $13!

Don’t miss out on capturing this unforgettable year! The 2024-2025 yearbook is your chance to relive the memories, celebrations, and milestones of the school year.

Just $13 for a lifetime of memories!

Orders due by April 10th!

What's Happening?

Visit our website for academic resources to support your scholar at home!

Community Resources

March Family Newsletter

lkuruzar@adelanteschools.org (Leah Kuruzar) — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 17:29:46 GMT

Dear Emma Donnan Families,

As we welcome March and the start of spring, we’re also entering an important season of preparation! With state testing right around the corner in April, this month is all about getting our scholars ready to shine. Our focus will be on building their confidence, strengthening key skills, and ensuring they feel supported every step of the way.

We know that success doesn’t happen overnight—it takes teamwork, dedication, and a strong community. That’s why we’re asking for your partnership in helping our scholars stay focused, attend school daily, and give their best effort as we head into this critical time.

This month’s newsletter includes important dates, strategies for supporting your child at home, and ways we’re making learning engaging as we prepare for testing season. Together, we can set our scholars up for success and help them finish the year strong! ��

Thank you for your continued support and for being an essential part of our Emma Donnan family. Let’s make this month one of growth, preparation, and pride!

With gratitude,

Randle

February in Pictures

Upcoming Events

Happening this Month

Attendance Updates

We have endured some harsh cold weather and an unyielding cold/flu season that led to a slight decline in attendance. However, with everyone’s dedication and the hope of warmer days ahead, we aim to rebound and approach a 95% daily attendance rate.

As mentioned in Ms. Randle's message, testing season has arrived, making it even more crucial for scholars to be present and punctual every day. Our instructional day commences at 7:30 AM; if a student is not in the building by that time, they miss vital information essential for their success. Additionally, it is important to be mindful when scheduling appointments to ensure your child can attend the entire school day.

Here are some tips that may help with daily attendance. Establishing a consistent bedtime and morning routine is essential to helping students feel rested, focused and ready for the day!

Bedtime Routine Tips:

Set a consistent bedtime each night, ensuring students get 8-10 hours of sleep.
Promote calming activities: warm bath/shower, reading, listening to soft music before bed.
Avoid screen time at least 30 mins before bed to improve quality sleep.

Morning Routine Tips:

Wake up at the same time each day, to promote consistency.
Pick out clothes and materials needed for school, the night before to reduce morning stress.
Manage time for prompt arrival to school to reduce morning stress.
Encourage student to eat a healthy breakfast, at home or at school.

Digital Health Habits Workshops

Get ready to mingle with fellow parents and discover the secrets to navigating your kid's tech adventures! Join our sessions featuring Clever, Zearn, IXL, Cyberbullying, Screentime, and a whole lot more! Let's tackle this digital jungle together!

This is a 3 session series workshop. You will recieve free resources, a meal and be entered into a gift card raffle for attending all three. Sign up for the first session today!

Session 1: March 18 - 8 AM - 9 AM

Session 2: April 22 - 5:30 PM - 6:30PM

Session 3: May 13 - 8 AM - 9 AM

After-School Activities Open

There is still time to register for after-school activities!

K-3 Soccer Clinic - Starts April 4th
After-School Clubs - Spots available in: Flag Football Club, Painting Club, Hounds Club, Travel Club, Game Club, Pokemon Club, Latin Dance Club and Woodworking.

Project: Improving School Lunches

We are committed to enhancing our school lunches for our students. Emma Donnan Elementary and Middle School is collaborating with The Patachou Foundation, Inc. to continue providing nutritious meals for students.

Our goal is to understand how school meals influence the daily experiences of our students. To achieve this, we are partnering with researchers at the Indiana University School of Medicine to assess both student and parent satisfaction with our food program. We will gather feedback from students regarding their thoughts on school meals and their enjoyment of the food provided. Additionally, we will share data about meal participation, attendance, behavioral referrals, and test scores from Emma Donnan with the researchers. Rest assured, WE WILL NOT disclose any information that could identify individual students.

Please read the attached study information sheet for more details.

Emma Donnan Yearbook - Order Now!

Get Your 2024-2025 Yearbook Now – Only $13!

Don’t miss out on capturing this unforgettable year! The 2024-2025 yearbook is your chance to relive the memories, celebrations, and milestones of the school year.

Just $13 for a lifetime of memories!

Order today and secure your copy before it’s too late!

What's Happening?

Visit our website for academic resources to support your scholar at home!

Community Resources

February Family Newsletter

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 21:50:27 GMT

Dear Adelante Families,

February is Black History Month, a time to reflect, honor, and celebrate the rich history, achievements, and contributions of Black individuals who have shaped our world. At Adelante, we recognize that history isn’t just something to remember—it’s something we live, learn from, and build upon every day.

This month is a perfect time to reaffirm our commitment to standing with, beside, and for one another in support of the diversity that strengthens our community. We know that when we lift each other up, we all move forward together.

That belief is at the heart of everything we do—creating a school where every scholar feels safe, valued, and empowered to reach their highest potential.

Throughout February, we will engage in learning and activities that highlight Black voices, stories, and achievements. We encourage you to continue these conversations at home and celebrate the impact of Black history in everyday life.

Thank you for being part of a community that believes in the power of belonging and the promise of a bright future for all.

The Emma Donnan Team

Janaury in Pictures

Upcoming Events

Black History Month

Black History Month Spirit Days

These days recognize important individuals, cultural milestones, and traditions in Black history, where each day will focus on different themes like historical figures, music, art, or African heritage.

February 7th - Throwback to the '90s: Hip Hop Hooray Day
This theme can celebrate the influential era of '90s hip hop, a genre that shaped culture, fashion, and music worldwide. Students can show off their best 90s-inspired streetwear, from baggy jeans and windbreakers to oversized shirts and bold accessories.
February 14th - Love and Legacy Day - Wear Red and Pink
A celebration of love, unity, and the legacy of Black history.
February 21st - Madam CJ Walker Day - Wear your favorite Hairstyle
Students can wear their favorite hairstyle, whether it's an updo, braids, curls, or anything that makes them feel confident, while learning about Walker’s groundbreaking work in hair care and her impact on Black entrepreneurship.
February 28th - Black Excellence Day - Wear All Black
This day can be a powerful expression of solidarity and pride, celebrating the strength, resilience, and excellence of the Black community.

Meet Our New Director of Culture: Ms Patton

We are excited to welcome Mrs.Patton as the new Director of Culture at Emma Donnan! With over 20 years of experience working with children through the Department of Corrections and the Department of Child Services, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to student success. Her professional background also includes extensive experience in community-based services for children and families.

Mrs.Patton holds a Master’s degree in Child Law from Loyola University and is passionate about fostering a positive and supportive school environment. In her role, she will focus on building strong relationships with students and families while promoting a culture of accountability and growth through restorative practices.

She is eager to connect with the Emma Donnan community and looks forward to working together to ensure all students feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed!

Happening this Month

Operations Reminders

Our goal is to ensure that we provide a safe and efficient experience for all of our students and families. In order to do so, it is important that families help us by following our established protocols.

Dismissal Changes

If your scholar is dismissing in a different way than usual, please be sure to call the front office by 1:00 PM to make the necessary change. This includes any changes such as a scholar no longer staying for after-school activities, switching from a car-rider to a walker, or any other dismissal adjustments. To ensure we can make the change smoothly and safely, please contact the office at 317-226-4272 .

Field Experience (Trip) Permission Slips

Field experience permission slips must be signed through your Powerschool Parent Portal before a scholar is allowed to participate in the trip. We are unable to accept verbal consent for these trips, so it’s important that the permission slip is completed online. If you’re having trouble accessing your Powerschool Parent Account, please contact the front office for assistance.

After-School Clubs

Exciting news—After-School Clubs are back! We’re introducing new clubs along with some fan favorites. Club assignments will be shared the week of February 10th, so you’ll find out which club you’ve been assigned to soon!

Get ready for fun, learning, and new experiences when clubs begin on February 24th!

Spring Athletics

It’s time to kick off registration for Spring Athletics! We are excited to offer sports options for all scholars in grades K-8.

Elementary Soccer - Grades 4th-5th - Co-ed
Middle School Soccer - Grades 6th-8th - Co-ed
Flag Football - Grades 6th- 8th - Co-ed
Soccer Clinics - Grades K-3 - Co-ed

All scholars trying out for our competitive league teams must meet our athletics eligibility requirements.

School Calendar Feedback

We need your input! We've moved to a two-year calendar cycle to give families and staff more time to plan trips and other commitments. We've also made adjustments to the number of remote learning days. Click the link below to review the drafts and share your feedback—it only takes a few minutes! A translated version will be available soon.

Emma Donnan Yearbook - Order Now!

Get Your 2024-2025 Yearbook Now – Only $13!

Don’t miss out on capturing this unforgettable year! The 2024-2025 yearbook is your chance to relive the memories, celebrations, and milestones of the school year.

Just $13 for a lifetime of memories!

Order today and secure your copy before it’s too late!

What's Happening?

Visit our website for academic resources to support your scholar at home!

Community Resources

January Family Newsletter

lkuruzar@adelanteschools.org (Leah Kuruzar) — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 15:21:49 GMT

A Message from Ms. Randle...

Happy New Year Emma Donna Families!

Welcome back to the second half of the 2024-2025 school year! We hope you had a joyful and restful Winter Break, and we are so excited to dive into 2025 with you and your students.

As we step into this transformational season, we’ll be preparing for some important milestones:

Testing Season is right around the corner, and we’re ready to support our students as they demonstrate the incredible growth and hard work they’ve achieved so far.
We’ve got exciting trips and events on the horizon, along with opportunities to celebrate how much our students have grown academically, socially, and personally.
For our 8th Graders, we’re thrilled to announce a special trip to the Indiana Statehouse on Friday, January 24th! This will be an incredible opportunity for our students to engage with our state’s government and history. Permission slips for the trip are now available in PowerSchool, so please log in to complete them as soon as possible.

This semester is about transformation, growth, and achievement, and we are so excited to partner with you to make it one of the best yet. Let’s continue to push forward, support one another, and make this year a memorable one for every student.

Here’s to a fantastic 2025 together!

Best,

Principal Randle

December in Pictures

Upcoming Events

Mark Your Calendars

January 20th - MLK Day - No School for Staff and Scholars

January 21st - 100th Day of School

We will enjoy a day filled with exciting activities. Homeroom teachers will communicate specific plans for their classes as needed.

January 31st - January Birthday Celebrations

Students with birthdays in January will enjoy a delightful ice cream treat! If your child has a birthday this month and wishes to celebrate at school, please ensure all treats are brought in on that day.
Today also marks the birthday of Emma Donnan! Emma Donnan, a former IPS teacher and principal, is the namesake of our school.

February 14th - Classroom Valentine Day Celebrations

Teachers will have the opportunity to hold a Valentine's Day party in their classroom. Homeroom teachers will share specific plans for their classes as necessary.

What’s on the Menu @ Adelante? BREAKFAST!

Did you know that most scholars at Emma Donnan truly enjoy the breakfast offered in the Colts Commons? Take a look at what one of our scholars mentioned, and be sure to inform your scholars that breakfast is available daily.

"I’m often rushed to get to school so I really like having breakfast at school. The food at school is good! I like the cereal and the hot honey chicken sandwich. I really like when breakfast is hot but there are a lot of choices which is really nice."

-5th Grade Adelante Schola r

Scholar Intent to Return

Next week, we will be launching our Intent to Return process for the 2025-2026 school year. We kindly ask that all families complete this form to let us know your plans for the upcoming year.

Whether your scholar will be returning to Emma Donnan or you are still undecided due to various circumstances, please take a moment to inform us of your intentions. This will help us determine the number of open seats available for new students in the next school year. All scholars that are returning will receive a FREE Emma Donnan t-shirt.

Please be on the lookout for a link on January 15th. Your prompt response is greatly appreciated and will assist us in planning effectively.

Onward to High School - Deadline Approaching

Our first High School Shadow Day was a success for the 8th graders who attended! They had the chance to experience high school firsthand and learn more about specific programs offered at the school.

Another group of 8th graders will have the opportunity to attend a Shadow Day on January 14th . This will give them a chance to explore high school life and ask questions about the programs and opportunities available.

We're excited to see more students engage in this valuable experience!

It is HIGHLY important that parents/guardians complete the Enroll Indy Application before January 24th. Submitting the application by this deadline will greatly increase the likelihood that your scholar will secure a seat at their first-choice high school for the next school year.Please take action as soon as possible to ensure your student has the best chance of getting into their preferred school.

As always, reach out to our front office for any assistance needed.

Healthy Digital Habits

Our team is excited to partner with you to create workshops focused on Healthy Digital Habits that will help ensure your scholar is using technology safely and responsibly. To tailor these workshops to your needs, we need your feedback!

Please take a few minutes to complete our Healthy Digital Habits Survey by January 15th . Your input will help us design the most relevant and helpful workshops for you and your scholar.

Stay Well: Keeping our Community Safe

With sickness on the rise, we want to ensure that your family, along with our staff and students, stay healthy and safe. If your child is running a fever, please ensure they are fever-free without medication for 24 hours before returning to school.

In addition, masks will be available for scholars who choose to wear one. We are also increasing our sanitary procedures throughout the building and classrooms, especially in high-traffic areas, to help limit the spread of germs.

As a reminder, all absences should be reported to the front office by 8:00 AM each day.

Lastly, don't forget about our partnership with Adult and Child that provides students direct access to primary care services . Our nurse can schedule same-day virtual appointments for students who need to see a doctor. These virtual appointments offer quick and convenient access to necessary care without students having to leave school. Furthermore, we can help with scheduling in-person visits at the Adult and Child Clinic in Garfield Park.

Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our school community safe and healthy!

What's Happening?

Visit our website for academic resources to support your scholar at home!

Community Resources

December Family Newsletter

lkuruzar@adelanteschools.org (Leah Kuruzar) — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 19:09:37 GMT

A Message From...Mrs. Kuruzar

Dear Emma Donnan Families,

We are nearing the midpoint of the 2024-2025 school year! We are proud of the achievements of our scholars and staff thus far in the school year.

In the first quarter, we celebrated the achievement of 107 scholars who made the A/B honor roll, along with 12 exceptional scholars who earned a spot on the Principal's List by receiving straight A's.

We have seen remarkable progress in our daily attendance! To date, our school-wide attendance rate stands at an impressive 94%! A special acknowledgment goes out to the following homerooms for their exceptional attendance rates:

Florida - 3rd Grade - 97%

Miami - Kindergarten - 96%

Purdue - 5th Grade - 96%

TSU - 4th Grade - 96%

As temperatures drop and illnesses rise, please ensure that your scholar remains healthy and attends school every day.

We are thrilled to announce the expansion of our Athletics Program! We recently hosted our inaugural K-3 basketball clinic, which welcomed 25 enthusiastic scholars. This achievement was made possible thanks to the invaluable support of our middle school scholars and dedicated parent volunteers. Additionally, we launched our first Lacrosse Club and Futsal team this school year! We eagerly anticipate further growth in our athletics program in the coming year and beyond!

A few updates/reminders for this month:

The temperature is dropping! Please ensure that your scholars are dressed suitably for the weather. If you require hats, gloves, and/or winter coats, kindly fill out our assistance form, and we will do our best to support you.

To ensure that dismissal procedures run smoothly and safely, it is essential for parents/guardians to inform the front office of any transportation changes by 1:30 PM. Making last-minute changes during our dismissal window from 2:20 to 2:30 PM can disrupt the process as scholars are moved to different locations. For added convenience, you can also update their dismissal through the School Pass app.

Our art teacher, Mx. Denny, has been collaborating with our K-8 scholars to craft masterpieces for our Art to Remember Fundraiser! In February, you will have the opportunity to purchase keepsakes featuring your scholar's artwork. Stay tuned for more details on how to place your order!

We are eager to partner with families on fostering Healthy Digital Habits related to student technology use. We invite families to share their needs and insights on how to promote healthy technology habits at home with their children. Kindly take a few moments to complete the survey below.

Onward,

Mrs. Kuruzar

Director of Engagement

Upcoming Events

K-5 Winter Concert and Celebration

December 12th, 5:30 - 7PM

We are filled with excitement as we look forward to our Winter Concert and Celebration! Our K-5 grade students will take the stage in the winter concert, showcasing their talents by singing and playing instruments to winter melodies. After our concert, we warmly invite families to join us for our winter social! Enjoy delicious cookies, warm hot chocolate, a delightful stroll through our enchanting Gingerbread house village, and take advantage of some fantastic Christmas and winter photo opportunities.

Doors will open at 5PM. All scholars must arrive by 5:15 PM. Please enter through Door 10.

Family Satisfaction Survey

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the families who participated in our Family Satisfaction Survey! Your experiences with our school are invaluable to us, and your feedback plays a vital role in ensuring we meet your needs effectively.

During December, our leadership team will thoroughly evaluate the data and map out the next steps to improve our services. In our January newsletter, we will provide you with the complete results. As a sneak peek, for the fifth consecutive year, we have surpassed our goal for overall family satisfaction with our school, achieving an impressive 94% satisfaction rate this year. Thank you for entrusting us with your child's education.

Onward to High School

We are dedicated to assisting our scholars in identifying local high schools that align with their interests for the 2025-2026 school year. Scholars will have the opportunity to participate in a Shadow Day at one of our local high schools on either December 13th or January 14th. During the Shadow Day, a group of Emma Donnan scholars will visit a designated high school and "shadow" a student with similar interests.

Here is a list of schools that scholars can visit:
Herron High School
Providence Cristo Rey
Christel House
Victory College Prep
Purdue Polytechnic
Shortridge
BELIEVE
Matchbook Learning

This is a reminder that it is essential for families to complete the Enroll Indy OneMatch application in the first round, by January 24th. Submitting the application during this initial phase increases the likelihood of your scholar securing a seat at their preferred school. If you require help with the application process, please don't hesitate to contact our front office.

Holiday Assistance

We will conclude our Holiday Assistance Program this month. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we supported approximately 200 scholars. Families benefiting from our Holiday Assistance Program can collect their items on designated days and times. Please stay tuned for this communication. Pick up days will be either December 11th or December 12th.

Moreover, families will have the chance to explore our FREE Holiday Shop, featuring a variety of gently used items. Finally, our partners at the Patachou Foundation will be supplying each family with a tote filled with food.

Penguin Patch Holiday Shop

December 2nd - December 6th - During school hours

We are excited to introduce a NEW program this year: Jenny's Penguin Patch Holiday Shop! Scholars will have the chance to choose gifts for their loved ones, wrap them, and receive their selections just in time for the holidays. We will provide 100 different gifts starting at just 25 cents.

During the week of 12/2-12/6, scholar's that are able will be able to shop at the Penguin Shop. Items will come home wrapped and ready for the holiday.

Winter Sport Registration

What's Happening?

Visit our website for academic resources to support your scholar at home!

Community Resources

November Pictures

November Family Newsletter

lkuruzar@adelanteschools.org (Leah Kuruzar) — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 20:30:55 GMT

A Message From...Mrs. Kuruzar

Dear Emma Donnan Families,

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the families who joined us for our Fall Festival and Family Conference Days this October! It brings us immense joy to witness your active involvement in your child's educational journey. If you couldn't attend our events in October, rest assured there are plenty more opportunities in November!

A few reminders:

Our kindergarten - fifth grade classrooms will continue to go outside for recess if the temperature/wind chill is above 32 degrees . Please ensure that your scholar the appropriate jacket/hats/gloves for the weather. If you need assistance for appropriate clothing for the change in weather, please complete our assistance form.

Our attendance remains strong overall, although we’ve noticed a decline since fall break. We highly encourage parents to refrain from extending vacations for travel purposes, as this will lead to unexcused absences for students. It is important that scholars are present the day before and after breaks as learning is still taking pace on these days. Let’s all stay motivated during these chilly winter months and continue the excellent effort in ensuring students make it to school.

If your scholar has a birthday in November, we kindly request that if you would like to bring in store-bought treats, please do so on November 22. This will be the day we celebrate all the November birthdays in the Emma Donnan family.

We genuinely value your partnership, as always. Please take a moment to read the entire newsletter to discover how you can engage in your child's educational journey.

Onward,

Mrs. Kuruzar

Director of Engagement

Important Links

Upcoming Events

Gobble Gathering

November 22nd - During Lunch Periods

Come share a meal with your scholar on November 22nd! Our Commons Team will be serving a delightful lunch for families to savor together. Families are required to RSVP for the event. Each scholar may bring along two guests.

Family Satisfaction Survey

November 6th - November 13th

We greatly appreciate the feedback from our families regarding their experiences with our school. Our goal is to guarantee that both families and scholars enjoy an exceptional experience. Our goal is to have 80% of families rating their experience with us as satisfied or very satisfied. Over the past four years, we have consistently surpassed that target!

Completing the survey will require no more than 5 minutes of your time. Homerooms achieving 100% participation will be rewarded with a special classroom party on 11/22.

Onward to High School Week

Week of November 4th

Our 8th-grade scholars will explore the various high school options available to them in IPS's Zone 4. Early in the week, they will participate in an interest survey to express their preferences regarding programs they'd like to pursue during high school. The week will culminate with local high schools visiting our campus on November 8th for a High School Fair, providing valuable insights for our scholars.

Eighth-grade students will be bringing home information about schools they are interested in to share with their families. We strongly encourage eighth-grade families to submit their applications through Enroll Indy's One Match during the first round (November 1 to January 24). If you require assistance with your application, please do not hesitate to contact our front office.

Holiday Assistance

Registration for our Holiday Assistance program is now closed. We are starting the process of matching families with sponsors. In November, you will receive a letter detailing your assigned sponsor and the following steps. If we are unable to connect you with a sponsor this year, a letter will be sent home.

Please be aware that if you are receiving holiday assistance, it is essential to promptly complete the next steps provided to ensure the continuation of your support.

Holiday Assistance Pick-Up will take place December 11th - 13th.

Penguin Patch Holiday Shop

December 2nd - December 6th - During school hours

Later this month, each scholar will receive a budgeting envelope to fill out with the help of a parent or guardian. If funds permit, families can place money in the envelope and return it to the school. Every classroom will have a designated shopping day.

NEW to the Uniform Shop

What's Happening?

Visit our website for academic resources to support your scholar at home!

October Pictures

Adelante Schools on WISH-TV: Discover the Engaging, Student-Centered Experience and Enroll Now!

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 13:52:28 GMT

See how Adelante Schools is redefining K-8 education in Indianapolis. With the Enroll Indy application window open, apply now to secure a spot and prevent waitlisting for the 2025-2026 school year!

Our Executive Principal, Kendra Randle, and Chief Operating Officer, Jordan Habayeb, joined Life.Style.Live! on WISH-TV to discuss how Adelante Schools is redefining the school experience. From engaging clubs and free aftercare to prioritizing teacher support and well-being, they share how we're creating a vibrant, supportive community for students and staff alike. Don’t miss this inspiring look at how Adelante Schools is making a difference every day.

Then learn how to save your seat for the 2025-2026 school year before waitlists start!

October Family Newsletter

lkuruzar@adelanteschools.org (Leah Kuruzar) — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 13:55:38 GMT

A Message From...Mrs. Kuruzar

Dear Emma Donnan Families,

As we enter the third month of school, our scholars are diving headfirst into their academic and school culture pursuits. We truly appreciate your support in ensuring that homework is completed on time. Just a friendly reminder that homework is due every Friday, and scholars will receive a grade for their submissions.

Homework completion isn't the only thing we are are excited about at Adelante, scholars are relishing the meals offered by the Commons! The opinions of our scholars are significant! We aim to persist in collecting this vital feedback to guarantee not just the quality and satisfaction of meals but also to create a platform for Adelante's scholars to feel empowered to express themselves! On September 18th, the culinary team surveyed 186 scholars to solicit their feedback on a new menu item: Flautas. The results are unmistakable: Over 87% of Adelante scholars adored the Flautas!

Save the date for our Family Conference Day on October 25th! We strongly encourage all families to take part in this event. It's a wonderful chance to engage with your scholar's teacher(s) and gain insights into your scholar's academic and social-emotional development. A digital sign-up will be distributed on October 9th. Additionally, please note that our grading period concludes this week, and report cards will be sent home on October 9th. You can also access your scholar's grades through the Powerschool Parent Portal.

As we move into October, we’d like to highlight a few important procedures at Emma Donnan.

Dismissal Changes

All dismissal changes must be communicated through the front office by 1:30 PM daily. Teachers are not authorized to alter dismissal arrangements for students. By following these protocols, we can ensure the safety of all our scholars.

Scholar Uniform

A heartfelt thank you to those families who have been work in SWING with us regarding scholar uniforms. Please remember that uniforms are mandatory. Ensure your scholar is dressed in uniform every day.

Cell Phone Policy

According to state law, students are not permitted to have their cell phones on their person. All cell phones must be stored in their backpacks before entering the building and should remain there until they leave school premises.

We look forward to seeing you this month at our Fall Festival and Family Conferences!

Onward,

Mrs. Kuruzar

Director of Engagement

Important Links

Upcoming Events

Attendance Matters

In September, we celebrated 207 scholars who achieved perfect attendance, marking our highest total to date! Recently, we have been making efforts to boost attendance on Fridays through our FULL House Friday program. As families grow more accustomed to our attendance policies, we are optimistic about surpassing the 94% attendance rate.

We greatly appreciate your partnership and have some suggestions to help enhance attendance. We encourage you to avoid holding your child out of school for an entire day if an appointment only requires a short time. Additionally, we request that siblings do not miss school for another child’s appointment. Please note that students with five or more absences will be enrolled in an attendance improvement program. Although providing a doctor’s note is important, it will not eliminate the absence or exempt your child from participating in this program.

Fall Spirit Week

Week of October 7th - 11th

We're so excited to announce that Fall Spirit Week will be taking place the week of October 7th! Spirit week is a wonderful chance for our amazing staff and students to let their creativity shine through fun, themed outfits and activities. It's a great way to make school life even more enjoyable! We kindly ask that if scholars decide not to participate in Spirit Week, they wear their standard school uniform. Our culture team will continue to implement our school expectations for uniform.

Fall Festival

October 24, 2024

Mark your calendars for our annual Fall Festival Event! We are excited to invite you to join us on October 24th from 5:30 to 7:00 for an evening filled with autumnal fun!

Come enjoy Trunk or Treating, s'mores, fall games, and an outdoor movie. This is an event you definitely won't want to miss!

Scholars are encouraged to wear their costumes to school on this day. Stay tuned for more details coming home this month regarding the expectations for costumes at school.

Car-rider Arrival Procedure Reminders

Our aim is to guarantee that every scholar arrives at school by 7:30 am each morning. To assist with this, we would like to offer some tips for our car-rider line to ensure that scholars are prepared to exit the turn promptly.

Make sure your scholar is positioned behind the driver's seat for a safe and quick exit.
Please have scholars gather their belongings as soon as you enter the car line. This will ensure they have everything ready when it’s time to exit the vehicle.
Encourage your scholar to say their goodbyes before reaching the drop-off location.

We appreciate your assistance in ensuring that the drop-off process is as efficient as possible!

Emma Donnan Library

We are thrilled to announce that our library is now open for business! Already, more than 500 books have been checked out!If your scholar hasn't picked up a book yet, there's no need to worry; they will do so soon. Please take a moment to remind your scholar of the expectations for using and caring for our library books.

Books are due back to school 1 week after checkout.
Scholars will be charged for the cost of the book if lost or damaged.
If scholars forget to return a book, they can't check out a new book until the other is returned.

Feel free to email Mrs. Bernacchi with any questions about our library.

Calling all Volunteers

National Bullying Prevention Month

October is designated as National Bullying Prevention Month. It is crucial to prioritize discussions on addressing and preventing bullying of K-12 children and youth during this period. The Indiana Department of Education defines bullying as "overt, unwanted, repeated acts or gestures, including verbal or written communications or images transmitted in any manner (including digitally or electronically), physical acts committed, aggression, or other behaviors committed by a student or group of students against another student with the intent to harass, ridicule, humiliate, intimidate, or harm the other targeted student and create for the targeted student an objectively hostile school environment." "Any other behaviors committed by a student or group of students against another student with the intent to harass, ridicule, humiliate, intimidate, or harm the other targeted student and create an objectively hostile school environment for the targeted student."

Mrs. Harris will be visiting classrooms throughout the month of October to engage students in conversations about prevention and bullying, as well as to discuss the protocol we follow here at Emma Donnan. We encourage you to review the definition of bullying with your scholar and ask them about their lessons they are receiving from Mrs. Harris.

In addition to educating our scholars, our staff is engaging in professional development with Mrs. Harris to discuss the definition of bullying, prevention methods, and reporting. Furthermore, staff will receive additional training on bullying throughout the school year.

What's Happening?

Visit our website for academic resources to support your scholar at home!

Community Events & Resources

September Family Newsletter

lkuruzar@adelanteschools.org (Leah Kuruzar) — Wed, 04 Sep 2024 18:55:19 GMT

A Message From...Ms. Randle

Dear Emma Donnan Families,

Welcome to the 2024-2025 school year at Emma Donnan Elementary & Middle School! I am excited to begin this new academic journey with each of you. Whether you are a returning family or new to our school, we are thrilled to have you as part of our vibrant community.

At Emma Donnan, we believe in creating a nurturing and inclusive environment where every student can thrive. Our dedicated teachers and staff are committed to providing a high-quality education that fosters academic excellence, social-emotional growth, and a love for learning.

As we embark on this new year, we have many exciting plans in place, from innovative classroom activities to engaging extracurricular programs. Our goal is to ensure that every student feels supported and encouraged to reach their full potential.

Communication and collaboration between home and school are essential to student success. I encourage you to stay involved, ask questions, and share your ideas with us. Together, we can create a positive and enriching experience for all of our students.

Thank you for entrusting us with your child's education. I look forward to a year filled with learning, growth, and memorable experiences.

Warm regards,

Principal Randle

Important Links

HUGE NEWS!

This week we announced a new partnership with The Indianapolis Colts! They are giving us a significant amount of support to support our amazing scratch kitchen. We are very thankful for their support of our school. Read more about it below.

Upcoming Events

Picture Day

September 17, 2024

Picture Day is fast approaching on Tuesday, September 17th! On this day, your scholar is encouraged to come dressed to impress or in school uniform! We will be sending home forms with a unique code for you to use when purchasing your scholar's pictures. Pictures can be purchased beforehand or after the day. Following picture day, you will be able to access the proofs before purchasing. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to call the front office.

Attendance Matters

In August, our attendance reached 94.7%, marking a remarkable improvement compared to last year! A heartfelt thank you to all the parents and scholars for their dedication in making it to school.

We are launching an exciting new initiative called "Full House Fridays!" Every Friday, our goal is to get to 100% attendance. Scholars will receive a punch card and earn a hole punch each Friday they attend. Accumulate punches for attendance to win a prize—more punches mean more rewards!

We aren't forgetting about our parents and guardians either! We know that you play a large part in ensuring your scholar is here and on-time. We will have random drawings each month to recognize you for your scholar's attendance!

Scholar Uniform

As we enter the second month of the school year, we will begin to strictly enforce our school uniform policy among all scholars. Full uniform is required by September 5th. Scholars who fail to comply will face disciplinary actions from our Culture Team.

The school uniform comprises an Emma Donnan/Adelante shirt, suitable pants (no holes, sweats/athletic pants, leggings, or yoga pants), and closed-toe/closed-heel shoes (no slides, slippers, or Crocs).

If you have any questions about school uniform, please reach out to Mr. Pendelton.

B irthday Celebrations

Each month, we have a designated day that we will celebrate scholar birthdays at Emma Donnan. On this day, any scholar that has a birthday during the month will receive a special ice cream treat! This is also the opportunity for families to celebrate their scholar's birthday at school. If you wish to bring in a treat or item to celebrate your scholar's birthday, please do so on the designated day only. All items must be store bought. We highly encourage bringing in a non-food item such small trinkets, pencils, stickers, etc.

September Birthdays - 9/2

October Birthdays - 10/23

November Birthdays - 11/22

December Birthdays -12/19

Scholastic Book Fair & Literacy Night

The Scholastic Book Fair will be at Emma Donnan during the week of September 9th. All scholars will have the opportunity to preview the book fair on 9/9 or 9/10. Scholars will bring home a wishlist of the books they are interested in. Each classroom will have a designated day to shop the fair. Your child's teacher will share their shopping day.

Our book fair will also be open during our Literacy Night on September 12th from 5:30 - 7:00PM. Shop our book fair, engage in literacy activities, learn about your scholar's beginning of the year literacy data, free giveaways and raffle, and more!

Calling all Volunteers

Mental Health Services at Emma Donnan

What's Happening?

Visit our website for academic resources to support your scholar at home!

Community Events & Resources

Adelante Schools, The Colts, and Patachou Announce Partnership to Elevate School Meals

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 19:41:32 GMT

At Adelante Schools, we are committed to creating an environment where our scholars not only excel academically but also enjoy the best possible experience during their time with us. Today, we are excited to share a significant milestone in our journey—thanks to the incredible generosity of the Indianapolis Colts and the visionary leadership of The Patachou Foundation. With a $1 million gift from the Colts, the work we have led over the past our kitchen and cafeteria at Emma Donnan School #72 have been transformed into “Colts Commons,” a state-of-the-art space where nutritious, scratch-made meals are prepared daily for our scholars.

A Transformative Partnership

The Indianapolis Colts have long been champions of our community, and their recent $1 million gift—funded by proceeds from the Colts’ gameday 50/50 Raffle—represents a major investment in the future of our scholars. This generous contribution will help provide 1.2 million meals to 3,500 students across Indianapolis over the next five years, with Colts Commons at Adelante Schools leading the way.

When we launched Adelante Schools, our vision was clear: to offer the best possible scholar experience, which includes ensuring that the meals served in our school are not only nutritious but also exciting and enjoyable. Last year, we made a bold move to elevate our meal program by transitioning from reheated, truck-delivered food to freshly prepared, scratch-made meals crafted in our newly renovated kitchen. This shift didn’t just improve the quality of food—it created well-paying jobs in our community and marked the beginning of what it truly means to eat well in our school.

An Enhanced Scholar Experience

Our scholars have embraced these changes with enthusiasm. From rave reviews of our salads to the excitement over edamame on the menu, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. But this transformation is about more than just the food on the plate—it’s about how we use meals to enhance the overall educational experience. Whether it’s incorporating fresh-baked apple treats during lessons on apples or featuring cultural dishes during Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re making food an integral part of learning. “Our scholars are not just eating healthier meals—they’re engaging with their food in meaningful ways that enhance their learning experience,” said Edward Rangel, CEO of Adelante Schools. “By incorporating nutritious meals into the fabric of our educational approach, we’re seeing improvements in focus, attendance, and overall academic success. This is about more than just food; it’s about setting the stage for our scholars to reach their full potential.”

The Patachou Foundation’s PataSchool initiative has been instrumental in making this possible. By collaborating closely with our operations team, they helped design and construct a restaurant-quality kitchen that now serves over 450 students. Thanks to their leadership, we’ve increased the amount of fresh food in our school by over 65% and reduced waste by more than 75% through the use of reusable dishes.

“Our partnership with the Indianapolis Colts and The Patachou Foundation is a testament to the power of collaboration,” said Jordan Habayeb, COO of Adelante Schools. “This investment goes far beyond financial support; it reflects a shared commitment to ensuring our scholars have the resources they need to thrive. Together, we’re creating an environment where every meal contributes to the well-being and success of our students.”

Building a Stronger Future

Today, we are proud to unveil Colts Commons, a space that symbolizes the power of partnership and the commitment to providing the best for our scholars. The Colts’ investment in our kitchen is not just about serving meals; it’s about creating a sustainable model that ensures every child has access to high-quality food that fuels their success in the classroom and beyond.

We are deeply grateful to the Indianapolis Colts, The Patachou Foundation, and all our supporters for helping us take this significant step forward. Together, we’re not just improving school meals; we’re building a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant school community.

Thank you for being a part of this journey with us. We invite you to visit Colts Commons and see firsthand the impact that nutritious, scratch-made meals can have on our scholars. Let’s continue to work together to ensure that every child in Indianapolis has the opportunity to thrive.

July Family Newsletter

lkuruzar@adelanteschools.org (Leah Kuruzar) — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 18:48:52 GMT

A Message From...Mrs. Kuruzar

We're in the last stretch of summer! We hope that you're making the most of this final month with enjoyable activities and some well-deserved rest and relaxation. We are looking forward to having all of our scholars make in the building soon!

Our first day of school is August 1, 202! Please keep in mind that our start time is 7:30AM. Scholars that are car-riders and walkers will be able to enter the building starting at 7:20 AM.

Be sure to follow the traffic pattern for arrival to ensure safety and efficiency. Parent and guardians will not be able to enter the building with their scholar. We will have our staff available to help scholar's find their classrooms and get breakfast. Bus-riders should arrive at their stop 5 minutes earlier than the assigned time. Parents and guardians should download the ParentView App to track your scholar's bus.

As we plunge into the upcoming academic year, make sure you're prepared for Day 1. The newsletter for this month will provide you with essential tasks to get set for the first day of school. Completing these tasks will guarantee a solid beginning to our school year. If you have any inquiries about completing these tasks, feel free to contact me via email at lkuruzar@adelanteschools.org or by phone at 317-909-4734.

Finally, we hope you will join us at our Back to School Luau on July 27th from 11AM to 1PM. This event aims to assist families in getting ready for the upcoming school year and to mark the beginning of the school year with exciting activities. Enjoy inflatables, music, complimentary food, games, and more. Our team will be on hand to address any queries you may have regarding the school year. Come out and have some fun with us!

We will be sending a final First Day of School prep newsletter your way on July 24th.

Onward,

Mrs. Kuruzar

Director of Engagement

Important Links

Upcoming Events

Back to School Bash

July 27th, 11AM - 1PM

Come and join us at our Back to School Bash Luau!

Meet our dedicated team
Explore our state-of-the-art facility
Indulge in a delicious lunch
Receive all the necessary details to prepare for your first day
Get your immunizations and sports physical
Engage in fun games and snag giveaways!

Be sure to dress for the occasion!

Get Ready for Day 1!

Gear up for the first day of school by ordering your uniform tops! All scholars must be dressed in uniform on the first day. Our uniform features branded shirts with the Emma Donnan or Adelante logo, which can be ordered online. We are actively working with our vendor to enhance turnaround times. Once ordered, expect your shirts to arrive in 5-7 business days.

Don't forget to update and have your immunizations on file! To attend the first day of school, scholars must have up-to-date immunization records on file. Refer to the guidelines offered by the state of Indiana below: Each school must ensure that parents provide proof of their child's immunization status no later than the first day of school, either through documentation from the administering health care provider or the state immunization data registry.

Ensure Access Your Account for Powerschool Parent Portal Account! Every family must have access to the Powerschool Parent Portal Account for the 24-25 school year. Your account has been set up using the email you provided during your scholar's enrollment. Kindly follow the steps below to log in. If you encounter any issues accessing your account with the email we have on record, please contact our front office.

NEW Family Orientation Meetings

Volleyball Registration

Bears' Den After-School Care Program

Kindergarten Orientation

Looking Ahead!

Our goal is to provide you with the latest updates on everything occurring at your school. As we embark on a new school year, it is essential for us to keep you well-informed about what lies ahead. We have introduced various new elements to our program and are refining some of our key policies as we prepare for the upcoming academic year.

Community Events & Resources

Adelante's Reading Achievement Featured in the Indianapolis Recorder

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 18:50:45 GMT

We're excited to share that the Indianapolis Recorder has published a story about Adelante Schools and our unmatched achievements in early literacy. Our commitment to the science of reading and strong academic foundations is making a significant impact on our scholars. Read the full story here.

June Family Newsletter

lkuruzar@adelanteschools.org (Leah Kuruzar) — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 16:58:52 GMT

A Message From...Mrs. Kuruzar

We're thrilled that summer has officially arrived! As the temperatures climb, make sure to venture outdoors and enjoy the parks and events our city has to offer. In June, Spark on the Circle at Monument Circle with a vibrant pop-up park filled with daily public art displays, live music, delicious food and drinks, community activities, and much more.

This summer, our team is getting ready for the approaching school year. Our front office will have limited hours, opening from 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM. If you need to reach the school, feel free to get in touch during our available office hours. If you need assistance outside of the office hours, feel free to email info@adelanteschools.org.

Our newsletter for this month will highlight the achievements of the current school year and share you with crucial details for the upcoming academic year.

Have a fantastic summer! We can't wait to see you at our Back to School Bash on July 27th!

Onward,

Mrs. Kuruzar

Important Links

Upcoming Events

Back to School Bash

July 27th, 11AM - 1PM

Come and join us at our Back to School Bash Luau!

Meet our dedicated team
Explore our state-of-the-art facility
Indulge in a delicious lunch
Receive all the necessary details to prepare for your first day
Get your immunizations and sports physical
Engage in fun games and snag giveaways!

We also looking for volunteers to provide services free of charge at this event. If you are interested or know of anyone, please complete the form below.

Haircuts
Nail painting
Family Photos

Get Ready for Day 1!

Celebrating 2023-2024 School Year!

Celebrate Our Attendance

This academic year, our focus was on ensuring that our students were present and on time every day. We recognized and rewarded our students for perfect attendance on a monthly, quarterly, and yearly basis with special incentives. We are proud to announce that two students achieved perfect attendance for the entire school year: A. Mcclure (5th grade) and J. Philips (3rd grade).

Pictured Above: Scholars with perfect attendance during ILEARN were invited to participate in a demonstration with Sub Zero Ice Cream and enjoy a sweet treat.

Celebrate Our Athletes

We are thrilled by the outstanding achievements of our athletes this academic year! The Boys Middle School Basketball Team had a perfect regular season, Vanessa F. was named to the district All-Star Volleyball Team, Keon L. earned a spot on the district All-Star Boys Basketball Team, and Michael C. and Lucy C. were both honored as Athletes of the Year.

Pictured Above: Our scholars and coaches at our End of the Year Athletics Dinner.

Celebrate Our Staff

We take great pride in our team and their achievements! This spring, a number of our staff members successfully completed their Bachelor's or Master's degrees.

Mrs. Cowan - Director of Literacy

Ms. Bedford - 1st Grade Teacher

Mr. Johnson - After-School Teacher/Instructional Assistant

Mrs. Harris - Social Worker

Looking Ahead!

May in Pictures

Community Events & Resources

Adelante Schools’ Ashley Hogan Named IPS' Teacher of the Year

jhabayeb@adelanteschools.org (Jordan Habayeb) — Fri, 17 May 2024 18:25:37 GMT

Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) has selected Ashley Hogan as an IPS Teacher of the Year. This marks one of the first times an educator from an Innovation School has received this prestigious honor. Ms. Hogan teaches English Language Arts at Emma Donnan Elementary and Middle School. Emma Donnan Elementary & Middle School is a public charter school authorized by the Indianapolis Mayor’s Office of Education Innovation and an Innovation School in the IPS portfolio of schools.

Ashley Hogan is a remarkable sixth-year general education teacher who brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her classroom. She is multilingual and holds a dual bachelor’s degree in early childhood education and special education from Ball State University. Additionally, she earned a Master’s in Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Arizona State University.

Ms. Hogan’s journey into education was inspired by her late grandmother, a dedicated teacher for over 25 years, and her father, a teacher and former school principal. These family influences have deeply shaped her commitment to education and her drive to overcome obstacles. Despite her own struggles in school, including managing an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), Ms. Hogan has reached her goals and now serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for her students.

Central to her teaching philosophy are the principles of differentiated instruction and reflective teaching practices, which foster a positive and inclusive learning environment. Ms. Hogan is dedicated to going beyond the call of duty to leave a lasting educational impression on her students, nurturing the next generation of exceptional learners from Indianapolis.

Matthew Rooney, Adelante Schools' Chief Schools Officer, praised Ms. Hogan's extraordinary impact over the past two years. "As a proud teacher of color, she inspires our diverse population of students to be their best. And as a proud child of teachers, she carries the legacy of academic achievement wherever she goes. She is a consummate professional, an innovative leader, and Adelante Schools’ unanimous choice for IPS Teacher of the Year."

Edward Rangel, CEO of Adelante Schools, expressed immense pride in Ms. Hogan’s achievement. "We are immensely proud that out of the over 4,000 teachers in the classrooms of schools under the IPS umbrella, Ms. Hogan was chosen. This type of accomplishment speaks volumes of her work and also shows the strong partnership we have with Indianapolis Public Schools."

Ms. Hogan's recognition as IPS Teacher of the Year is a testament to her unwavering dedication, innovative teaching practices, and her profound impact on students' lives. Adelante Schools and IPS are honored to celebrate her achievements and look forward to the continued success and inspiration she brings to her students and the community.

Photos: Josh Gurnick - Indianapolis Public Schools

May Family Newsletter

lkuruzar@adelanteschools.org (Leah Kuruzar) — Wed, 01 May 2024 19:29:46 GMT

A Message from Mr. Gammons...

Hello EDEMS families!

As we enter the final month of the 2023-2024 school year, it's incredible to see how time has flown by. Despite being near the end of this academic year, our scholars continue to engage in the daily pursuit of learning.

During the first week of May, scholars will complete their ILEARN testing. We extend our gratitude for their unwavering commitment and dedication to attendance and active participation throughout the testing period. Scholars were honored with special lunches and rewards for their dedication to excellence during the assessments. In this month, scholars will partake in extra celebrations linked to ILEARN. A select group of scholars will experience an in-house visit with Sub Zero Ice Cream and/or enjoy a movie screening at the nearby AMC theater. Permission slips will be sent home soon!

Additionally, as part of the ILEARN testing process, preliminary results will be communicated to the school in May. There will be a designated period where families and schools can request a rescore for scholars who are on the verge of passing. Mr. Rooney will be making personal contact with families who fall under this category within the initial weeks of May. Families can anticipate receiving their scholars' final scores during the summer.

This month's newsletter is packed with details about the numerous events happening in May. Please thoroughly peruse it to stay updated on all the upcoming activities. We look forward to having you join us

at one of our events.

Onward,

Mr. Gammons

Important Links

Upcoming Events

SATURDAY: Stronger Together: A Community Event

May 4, 2023 11AM - 1PM

Join us at our 3rd Annual Stronger Together Community event! More than 20 organizations will be present to showcase their services. Expect music, complimentary food, games, inflatables, and much more!

Franciscan Health will be administering school vaccines at the event. Note: starting next school year, it is mandatory for all students to have updated vaccine records before the first day of school.

Adult and Child will be conducting sports physicals on-site. Also starting next school year, all athletes in grades 4th-8th must have an updated physical on file to participate. Forms can be picked up in the front office or completed the day of the event. There is a $20 fee.

Organizations Attending

Fathers and Families Center
Southeast Community Services
RISE Indy
Immigrant Welcome Center
Citizens Energy Group
Paws and Think
And MORE!

Kindergarten and Eighth Grade Promotion Ceremonies

May 23rd

Excitement is in the air as we prepare to honor the academic accomplishments of our kindergarten and 8th-grade scholars, marking a significant milestone in their educational journey.

The families of our kindergarten and 8th-grade scholars are cordially invited to a special promotional ceremony. Please limit the number of additional guests to 4 to ensure ample seating for all.

Scholars should dress in their finest attire for this occasion, as it will be memorable. Following the ceremonies, there will be opportunities for photos to capture the joyful moments.

Kindergarten Promotion Ceremony - 8:30 AM - 9:15 AM

Eighth Grade Promotion Ceremony - 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

There is no RSVP required.

Save the Dates: Upcoming Events

Club

Showcase

Monday, May 6, 2024

3:00-3:45

For all of our scholars participating in an after-school club, we invite their family to join us for our Club Showcase on May 6th from 3:00 - 3:45 PM. See what scholars have been learning and creating over the 9 - week club session this winter/spring.

Athletics

Awards Dinner

Grades 4-8

Monday, May 20, 2024

5:30-7:00

RSVP Required

All scholars in grades 4-8 who took part in our Athletics Program (e.g., volleyball, basketball, or soccer) are invited to join us at the Athletics Awards Dinner. This special occasion is to celebrate the achievements of our athletes. Look out for the invites coming your way, or RSVP below.

Field

Day

K-6th: Monday, May 20, 2024

7th-8th: Tuesday, May 21, 2024

Field Day is an exciting event to commemorate the conclusion of the academic year! Students will engage in a combination of outdoor and indoor games and activities. Each student will be given a complimentary Field Day t-shirt to wear on their designated day.

We are seeking classroom parents to assist with Field Day for grades K-6. Please register below!

Classroom News

Check out what your scholar will be learning in the month of May!

Did you know that the Marion County Public Library staff support with homework help? Click the button below to learn more!

Family Advisory Council Meeting

Join us on May 14th from 5:30 - 6:30 PM for our last Family Advisory Council Meeting of the school year. Come reflect on the past year and get a sneak peek into what's ahead for the next school year. Dinner and childcare will be provided. Giveaways for participation!

Kindly RSVP so we can ensure an accurate food count for the event.

See you there!

Uniform Reminder!

As we move into the warmer seasons, please keep in mind that your scholar should consistently wear closed-toe and closed-heel footwear. Crocs, slides, and slippers are not compliant with our uniform guidelines. Closed-toe and closed-heel shoes serve as a protective shield against potential risks such as accidental knocks, sharp items, and falling objects. We appreciate your support with ensuring the safety of our scholars.

April in Pictures

Community Events & Resources

April Family Newsletter

lkuruzar@adelanteschools.org (Leah Kuruzar) — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 17:36:23 GMT

Dear Emma Donnan Families,

As we enter April, I am excited to prepare for the testing season and enjoy some much-needed warm weather. With the arrival of spring, our campus is buzzing with excitement as we embark on a new chapter filled with learning, growth, and fun-filled activities. I

In this month's newsletter, you will find important updates, upcoming events, and academic information on what your scholar is learning and how you can support them at home. From classroom projects to extracurricular activities and field trips, there is something for everyone to celebrate and be proud of.

I encourage you to stay engaged with our school community, whether through volunteering, attending events, or simply having meaningful conversations with your child about their experiences at school. Your involvement plays a vital role in supporting our shared mission of providing a nurturing and enriching educational experience for all.

As we continue to navigate the joys and challenges of the school year, let us remain united in our commitment to the success and well-being of every child. Together, we can create a vibrant and inclusive community where every scholar feels valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership as we work together to make this school year a memorable and rewarding one for our scholars.

Warmest regards,

Miss Randle

Executive Principal

Important Links

Upcoming Events

Solar Eclipse - Remote Learning Day

April 8th

Monday, April 8th is designated as a Remote Learning Day due to the Solar Eclipse. Our campus will be closed, aligning with other area schools, to ensure everyone can fully enjoy this rare event and to prevent any transportation disruptions.

We are sending scholars home with glasses so that they can safely observe the eclipse. It's imperative to wear these glasses throughout the eclipse phases to protect against potential eye damage.

Slam the Exam Campaign

In April, our attention will turn to ILEARN preparation for 3rd-8th grade scholars. We are excited to introduce our Slam the Exam campaign. This initiative will provide scholars with essential test-taking strategies to excel during the assessment. Our goal is to infuse ebullience into this program to inspire and recognize achievements.

Here's what you can look forward to:

Exciting giveaways
Weekly "Slammys" award, will be given to scholars who demonstrate exceptional test prep strategies in their classrooms. Winning the "Slammys" award will grant students a special lunch with a staff member of their choice.
Scholars with perfect attendance and punctuality from April 3rd to May 2nd will have the opportunity to participate in a fun out of school field trip. Furthermore, families of these scholars will be entered into a drawing for a grocery and gas gift cards as a token of appreciation for their support of the Slam the Exam initiative.

Save the Dates: Upcoming Events

Middle School Glow Fest Spring Dance

Grades: 7 & 8

Friday, April 12, 2024

6:00-7:30

Permission Slips Required

This promises to be an evening filled with music, dancing, and fun memories for our middle school scholars.

Sneaker Ball Family Dance

Grades K-6

Thursday, April 18, 2024

5:00-7:00

RSVP Required

This event will be a wonderful opportunity for families to come together, dance, and enjoy each other's company in a lively and festive atmosphere.

Club

Showcase

Monday, May 6, 2024

3:00-3:45

Summer EBT Program

In summer 2024, Indiana will launch SUN Bucks, a new grocery benefits program that provides families $120 for each eligible school-aged child to buy groceries when school is out. Summer is a time when many children lose the free and reduced-price meals they get at school, and when households might need a little extra help putting meals on the table. Most families will get these benefits automatically, but some parents will need to apply. The new program is in addition to free meals that kids of all ages can get at summer meal sites in their communities.

Children are eligible for the program if:

The household already participates in SNAP
The child attends a school that offers the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Program and the household income meets the requirements for free or reduced-price school meal

Many families will get SUN Bucks automatically if they are getting other benefits, but some families may need to apply.

If the household already participates in SNAP, they will be automatically enrolled in the SUN Bucks program. Households do not need to fill out an application.
If the household is not automatically enrolled and may be eligible, they can get SUN Bucks by filling out a simple application

We will provide you updates as more information is shared on the SUN Bucks program such as the application window and timeline for receiving funds.

Classroom News

Check out what your scholar will be learning in the month of April!

Each month, we will provide a high-level overview of what your scholar will learn in English Language Arts (ELA) and Math. Resources are linked to support you and your scholar with the practice of skills at home.

Remember to contact your scholar's teacher for additional information about their academics.

Remember to check out our academic support pages on our website for additional educational resources. This page is updated monthly!

Celebrating Perfect Attendance

At Emma Donnan, we take great joy in celebrating achievements! Every month, we honor scholars who have demonstrated punctuality and attendance throughout the month. This March, our scholars will be rewarded with a sweet treat. Moreover, families will have the chance to win prizes as well.

As we approach the final stretch of the school year, show your scholar encouragement to achieve perfect attendance. Their consistent presence and punctuality each day are crucial in making the most of their learning opportunities in the classroom.

National Stress Awareness Month

April is recognized as National Stress Awareness Month to bring attention to the negative impact of stress. Managing stress is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle. Knowing how to manage stress can improve mental and physical well-being as well as minimize exacerbation of health-related issues. It’s critical to recognize what stress and anxiety look like, take steps to build resilience, and know where to go for help. The Mental Health American (MHA) provides some tips on how to reduce your stress by utilizing a Stress Screener. Also, take some time to visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website and familiarize yourself with strategies for stress management.

March in Pictures

Community Events & Resources

March Family Newsletter

lkuruzar@adelanteschools.org (Leah Kuruzar) — Tue, 05 Mar 2024 18:27:21 GMT

Hello EDEMS Families!

Thank you for being supportive as we prepare to close the third quarter of the school year. The coming months are busy for our school community. Our scholars are preparing for state testing that takes place in March and April, field trips are happening, and we have multiple school events.

Below are some important dates to keep on your radar:

IREAD-3 Testing

IREAD-3 testing started March 5th for 2nd, 3rd and some select 4th and 5th graders. Please make sure your scholars get adequate sleep and they arrive on time, so that they can perform at their best!

Clearsight Testing

On March 12th & 13th scholars will be taking the Clearsight Test. This test is to measure scholars grade level proficiency. Please make sure your scholars get adequate sleep and they arrive on time, so that they can perform at their best!

Report Cards

Report cards will go home with scholars on March 13th.

Family Conference Day

Family Conference Day is March 22nd. On this day, there will be no scholars in the building. Family Conference Day is an opportunity for you to connect with your scholar's teacher(s) on their performance in school. In addition, we are adding mini-workshops that families can attend on this day to gather additional resources for support academics.

Thank you again for all of your support. GO BEARS!

Mr. Gammons

Middle School Principal

Important Links

Upcoming Events

Family Conference Day Sign-Ups

Join us for our spring Family Conference Day on Friday, March 22nd. Scholars will engage in remote learning, allowing teachers to spend the day meeting with families.

Secure your preferred time slot now by signing up. Teachers are eager to discuss your scholar's progress and achievements with you.

Update Your Contact Information

Ensuring that families are fully informed about events, critical updates, and scholar news is paramount to us. For this to be effective, it's essential that we maintain up-to-date contact information for each family.

This encompasses your phone number, physical address, and email address.

We urge you to promptly notify the front office whenever your contact details change. Our front office team can be reached at (317) 226-4272 between 7:30 AM and 3:00 PM. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated in keeping our communication seamless and effective.

Scholar Field Experiences

There are several field experiences taking place in March!

K-6 scholars will enjoy a trip to the Fun Factory in March! This is an incentive-based field experience. Scholars must earn this trip based on the following criteria: 90% or high attendance, less than three referrals in February, and no suspensions in February.

8th-grade scholars will go to visit Ball State University on March 15th. Scholars can explore the campus and learn about the college experience. In addition, our middle schoolers will be able to experience some magic this month. A magician will join lunch one day and provide table-side magic tricks for scholars.

Classroom News

Welcome to our new addition to our newsletter!

Remember to contact your scholar's teacher for additional information about their academics.

Remember to check out our academic support pages on our website for additional educational resources. This page is updated monthly!

Kindergarten Open House

March 16th , 10AM - 2PM

Help us spread the word about our Kindergarten Open House! Potential kindergarten students or those who have already enrolled for the 2024-2025 school year are invited to this event!

Families can learn more about the school, tour the building, meet our staff, and enroll on-site!

Refer a family, and you could win a prize!

Family Satisfaction Survey Next Steps

Thank you to all the families that attended our February Family Advisory Council Meeting. We were able to gather additional insight into our Family Satisfaction Survey results. From the survey, we have developed a goal for our team to focus on for the remainder of the school year. We understand the importance of communication. We want to ensure families have the information they need to support their scholars' success. Here is what you can expect to see from us for the remainder of the school year to improve our communication:

1. We will add a new section to our monthly newsletter that communicates academic topics that scholars will learn in ELA and Math each month.
2. We will increase the number of resources for academic support on our website by adding 2-3 new resources each month.
3. We will work with families to ensure that contact information is up-to-date in our student information system and that all families receive digital communication if they choose to.
4. We will streamline our communication to ensure that families receive information promptly. PS! Did you know we only send home things on Wednesdays? Be sure to check folders and backpacks!

We appreciate your support as we work towards our goal. In April, we will have another Family Satisfaction Survey for you to provide insight on our progress.

February in Pictures

Community Events & Resources

Coffee + Careers

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 14:15:20 GMT

Don't miss this opportunity to see how we're redefining educational careers with a focus on you.

February Family Newsletter

lkuruzar@adelanteschools.org (Leah Kuruzar) — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 21:20:21 GMT

Hello Families,

The school year is flying by! It is already February! Our scholars are in full swing now that they have settled in from returning from winter break. Scholars are excited about the new breakfast and lunch items, the start of our next club sessions, field trips and much more in our school community. We are looking forward to everything that will be taking place this month. Be sure to mark your calendars for upcoming events, review our important links for resources, and continue to check student folders for information being sent home.

Celebrating Black History Month

We've welcomed February by highlighting Black History Month, starting with a special video featuring staff and scholars sharing their perspectives on its significance. Throughout the month, scholars will engage with the contributions of influential African Americans via art projects, literature, and research projects. The celebration will culminate with a Step Show by Black sororities and fraternities from the University of Indianapolis.

Valentine's Day Sale

Our Scholar Ambassadors will run a Valentine's Day Sale on February 14th during lunch for K-8 scholars. Available items include stickers, candies, and temporary tattoos, purchasable with Bears Bucks.

Attendance Incentives

Congratulations to nearly 100 scholars who achieved perfect attendance in January, celebrated with a donut reward. For February, we're planning an ice cream party and a special surprise for families of scholars maintaining perfect attendance.

Onward,

Mrs. Kuruzar

Important Links

Upcoming Events

Cell Phone Policy - Reminder

Emma Donnan is a "Cell Phone Free" Zone, emphasizing focus on academics and social engagement by preventing classroom disruptions and cyberbullying.

Scholars are required to keep their phones in their backpacks, turned off or silent, and stored in lockers upon arrival. For urgent messages, contact the front office at 317-226-4272 or the scholar's teacher directly.

Violations result in referral to the Dean, who will inform parents/guardians of further actions.

After-School Clubs

We're thrilled to launch the second round of after-school clubs this year! Scholars who are accepted will receive a letter detailing their assigned club and its schedule.

Clubs run from 2:30 PM to 3:40 PM
Pickup from the car-rider line between 3:40 PM and 3:50 PM

To participate, scholars must attend at least 90% of sessions and adhere to Emma Donnan's expectations. Clubs start on February 26 and conclude on May 6 with a showcase event—mark your calendars!

Soccer Season

K-3 : A weekly skills clinic will be held every Tuesday, starting March 5, from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM. Registration is required. Pickup at Door 10.
Grades 4-6 : Tryouts are scheduled for February 15 from 2:30 PM to 3:40 PM. Registration is required. Pickup at Door 10.
Middle School (Grades 7-8) : Tryouts will take place on February 16 from 2:30 PM to 3:40 PM. Registration is required. Pickup at Door 10.

Muffins in the Morning is Back!

Join us on February 22nd from 6:45 AM to 7:15 AM for Muffins in the Morning. It's a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a muffin alongside your scholar and our staff. Please use Door 10 for entry.

Scholars will eat with you in the lunchroom and then head to class once arrival begins.

See you there!

Family Engagement

Thank you to all of our families that completed our family satisfaction survey and attended our meeting in January. We exceeded our goal for family satisfaction for the 4th year in a row! We have a 90% family satisfaction rate.

Our leadership team and families collaborated to identify trends in our family survey. From those conversations, our Emma Donnan team will draft a plan for next steps and share out with our families by the end of the month.

Your feedback is critical for our success! We hope to continue to hear from you on our successes and opportunities for growth. Our next survey will be in April for families to complete.

Please mark your calendars to join us for our next Family Advisory Council Meeting on February 13th at 5:30. Dinner will be provided.

Art to Remember Fundraiser

This semester, our school is participating in a unique fundraising program with Art to Remember that gives you the opportunity to purchase keepsake items with your child's artwork on them. The best part is that every keepsake order supports our school. Click on the bottom below and search for your child’s name, enter their online order code, and start shopping!

Please note that not all scholars participating in the fundraiser. Don't worry though because you can upload your own art work as well! Just visit the website and follow the steps.

SMILE MOBLIE - Reminder

February 15th and 29th

The Smile Mobile is returning to Emma Donnan! The Smile Mobile is a fully equipped dental office that provides dental examinations, x-rays, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and dental education during your child's visit. An administration fee of $20 or Medicaid and personal insurance reimbursements are also accepted as payment. Your child must be registered in order for them to receive services. Forms will be sent home this month. You can also access the form below.

January in Pictures

Community Events & Resources

January Family Newsletter

lkuruzar@adelanteschools.org (Leah Kuruzar) — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 21:11:11 GMT

Happy New Year, Emma Donnan Families!

I hope you have had time to enjoy loved ones, reflect, relax, and recharge. I'm so excited to enter into a new year with our scholars as we prepare for testing season in the spring and see all of the wonderful growth that they have made. Our 3-8 scholars will continue to prepare for the IREAD and ILEARN assessments in March, April, and May. We will have a family meeting in February to support you with ways to help your child with these assessments at home. If you have any questions about your scholar's academic progress, please get in touch with their teacher(s).

We have some exciting events coming up this second half of the year. So, pay attention to the information coming home with your scholar. The majority of our information will go home on Wednesdays.

As we prepare for the winter weather, please wrap your scholar up tight with those hats, gloves, scarves, and winter coats. Scholars in K-5 will continue to go outside if the weather permits. If you need any winter essentials, please get in touch with Mrs. Kuruzar for support. We work with many community organizations that provide donations for our scholars.

I look forward to being in classrooms this second half of the school year to make memories with our scholars and sit with them as they learn and grow. As always, thank you so much for all you do to support our scholars and school community.

Onward,

Ms. Randle

Executive Principal

Important Links

December in Pictures

YOU ARE IN!

SAVE YOUR SCHOLAR'S SEAT FOR NEXT SCHOOL YEAR

Upcoming Events

SMILE MOBLIE

February 15th and 29th

If you have any additional questions, please contact Nurse Coleman at 317-970-4352.

Primary Care Services

with Adult and Child

We are excited to expand our partnership with Adult and Child. Adult and Child now provides primary care and mental health services to Emma Donnan scholars. Read more about our growing partnership!

REMINDER! Take It To Go Program

Our Food Service and Operation teams have teamed up to minimize food waste from our lunch program. Instead of discarding unserved food after lunch, we are launching the Take It To Go Program. Our Food Service team will now package meals for weekly distribution to our families.

Here's how it works:

Reserve your meal through online registration each week.
You can reserve one meal per scholar enrolled at Emma Donnan.
Meal pickup is available on Fridays during specific hours.
Meals can be taken home by car riders or walkers only; we cannot send meals home on the bus.

Our uniform policy ties into our core values, solidarity and swing. The uniform is an essential part of our school's identity. It reinforces who we are as a community and helps scholars feel pride in their school.

Some quick reminders on what must be worn:

Branded Emma Donnan or Adelante Logo Shirt
Blue, Black, or Gray Jeans with no holes, rips, or patterns
Leggings, jeggings, and sweatpants are not permitted
Closed-toed/foot shoes.
During the cold months, students may wear a white, navy, gray. black long sleeve under their uniform shirt OR they must have a branded Emma Donnan or Adelante Logo sweatshirt/long sleeve.

Any scholars who continue to have uniform infractions may lose incentives (e.g., field trips, school celebrations) and privileges (e.g., participation in after-school programs).

Attendance

Scholars are expected to be present and on time in school. When scholars are late or absent, they miss key instruction for their success in the future. Scholars should be present and on time for 95% of the school days in the year. If your scholar has excessive absences, it could result in your scholar to be retained for the upcoming year. Our attendance team will notify any family with excessive absences this month.

If you need any resources for helping your scholar succeed with the school uniform or attendance, please contact Mrs. Kuruzar, Mrs. Harris, or Mrs. Mercer.

After-School Clubs

Registration for winter/spring clubs will open on January 24th and will be on a first-come basis. Scholars will be able to preview clubs on January 22nd and 23rd. If you want to volunteer to lead a club, please get in touch with Mrs. Kuruzar at 317-909-4734 by January 17th.

Athletics

During the second half of the year, we will have girls' basketball and K-8 soccer.

Girls Basketball - Check out the school calendar and support the Bears at an upcoming game. Scholars must be with a parent to attend after-school games.
Soccer - Soccer is open to all K-8 scholars. To give all scholars an opportunity to play, we need volunteers to coach each team and the right number of scholars to fill a team. The soccer session will start in March/April. If you are interested in coaching, don't hesitate to get in touch with Mr. Keys at 317-992-7239.

Community Events & Resources

December Family Newsletter

lkuruzar@adelanteschools.org (Leah Kuruzar) — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 13:09:34 GMT

Hello, Families!

We had a busy November and the start of a busy December. Be sure to catch up on all that has happened or all that is to come in our newsletter this month.

Gobble Gathering

We loved hosting our first-ever Gobble Gathering! It was a joy to see our families come together with our school and community family and enjoy a meal together. We are looking forward to making this an annual event!

Field Experiences

November was filled with field experiences! Our 2nd, 3rd, 6th, and 7th graders all visited a college campus this month. Scholars were able to experience "college life" by learning about program offerings, interacting with current students, touring key buildings on the campus, and much more. Students went to the University of Indianapolis, Marian University, IU Bloomington, and Purdue. We are excited for the rest of our scholars to visit other local colleges in the spring.

Athletics

We wrapped up our Elementary and Middle School Boys' Basketball seasons this month. Both teams showed teamwork, dedication, and perseverance. Special shoutout to our Middle School team, who had an undefeated season!

Winter Concert and Celebration

This month, we hosted our first Winter Concert and Celebration! We had an astounding turnout. Thank you for coming to support our K-6 scholars with their performance and celebrating the winter holidays with us. Special shoutout to Mr. Guise for organizing the winter concert. We hope that you will join us in the spring for our Spring Concert and Celebration.

Winter Break

Our winter break starts on 12/21. Classes will not be in session from 12/21 - 1/8. Classes will resume on 1/9/24. Our front office will be open on 12/21 from 7:30 AM - 1 PM and on 1/8 from 7:30 AM - 3:00 PM. We hope that you have a safe and happy holiday!

Important Links

November in Pictures

YOU ARE IN!

Scholars in grades K-7 automatically have a seat for the 2024-2025 School Year.

This is great because we are currently on a waitlist. We will reach out to confirm your seat for next year this winter.

School Year 2024-2025

-Emma Donnan will keep serving grades K-8

-We will be increasing the amount of athletics offered K-8 and the amount of clubs.

Upcoming Events

COMING Soon! Art to Remember

We are partnering with an organization called Art to Remember. This organization allows you to turn your scholar's artwork into a keepsake such as mugs, keychains, water bottles, notebooks, magnets and much more. In early February, you will receive a personalized order form with your scholar's artwork and directions for ordering. An extra perk to this program is that it is a fundraiser for our art program as well. We will receive a percentage of the profits and it will be put back into our art program for our scholars.

Family Advisory Council

January 16th, 5:30 - 7:00 PM

Thanks to all the families who completed our Family Satisfaction Survey!

Join us on January 16th for our Family Advisory Council Meeting. We'll be diving into the survey data and planning how to make your Emma Donnan experience even better.

Childcare and dinner will be provided for your convenience. Can't wait to see you there!

NEW! Take It To Go Program

Here's how it works:

Reserve your meal through online registration each week.
You can reserve 1 meal per scholar enrolled at Emma Donnan.
Meal pickup is available on Fridays during specific hours.
Meals can be taken home by car-riders or walkers only; we cannot send meals home on the bus.

REMINDER: Holiday Assistance Program Pick Up

Below are the pick up times based on your sponsor. We ask that you follow your assigned pick time and day to ensure our pick up days run smoothly. Families will be able to shop in our holiday store and will receive a bag of food donations from the Great Harvest Pantry and the Patachou Foundation.

Dec. 15th, 7:45AM - 9:30AM - Families sponsored by Project Play OR Individual Donors
Dec. 14th, 5:30PM - 7:00 PM - ALL families registered for the program can choose to pick up during this time

Holiday Spirit Week

December 18th-20th

Holiday Hair Day - Monday, 12/18

Wear your BEST or CRAZIEST hair to celebrate the winter holiday season! All students must still be in uniform.

Holiday Character Day - Tuesday, 12/19

Dress as your favorite winter holiday character. Examples: Snowman, Grinch, Reindeer, Gingerbread, Santa, Elf etc.

Holiday Chaos Day - Wednesday, 12/20

Wear holiday socks, headbands, jewelry, shirts, and more! Deck yourself out!

Please note that scholars that are not participating must be in school uniform. Scholars in uniform violation will not be able to participate in the remainder of spirit week.

Community Events & Resources

Celebrating Community: Adelante Schools' Inaugural Thanksgiving Gobble Gathering

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 14:08:36 GMT

Adelante Schools reached a milestone this Thanksgiving season by hosting our first 'Gobble Gathering,' a heartwarming event that brought families and the school community together for a festive and delicious lunch alongside their scholars. With over 170 guests in attendance, the event symbolized the unity and spirit of giving that defines our school and community.

Our curriculum is deliberately crafted to provide our scholars with a holistic understanding of Thanksgiving, incorporating the perspectives and histories of Indigenous communities. This educational approach reflects our dedication to creating a learning environment that honors and respects the diverse stories and experiences that shape our collective history. By ensuring our scholars are informed about the full spectrum of context surrounding Thanksgiving, we aim to nurture a culture of empathy and respect for all cultural heritages

Looking Forward

The success of our first Gobble Gathering has set a high bar for future events at Adelante Schools. We are excited to see this become an annual tradition. Our commitment to fostering a tight-knit community and providing exceptional experiences for our scholars and their families remains stronger than ever.

#AdelanteSchools #GobbleGathering #CommunityFeast #ThanksgivingCelebration #FamilyEngagement #SchoolCommunity #HealthyEating #ScratchKitchen #ColtsCommunity #PatachouFoundation #Thanksgiving2023

Adelante Principal Honored with Milken Educator Award

jhabayeb@adelanteschools.org (Jordan Habayeb) — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 18:58:01 GMT

Adelante Schools' Leader Honored with 'Oscars of Teaching'

The Adelante Schools' Emma Donnan campus was alive with energy and applause as Kendra Randle, the Executive Principal, received the distinguished Milken Educator Award along with a $25,000 prize. Often referred to as the "Oscars of Teaching," the Milken Awards acknowledge the exceptional efforts of up to 75 educators across the country each academic year. This initiative is part of the Milken Family Foundation's objective to honor their 3,000th Milken Educator.

Since the beginning of Adelante Schools, Ms. Randle has played a pivotal role, initially serving as the Dean of Scholars, then advancing to Principal Fellow, before assuming her current role as the Executive Principal.

Eddie Rangel, Founding Executive Director, shared, "The moment I witnessed Ms. Randle engage with a family for the first time in August 2020, I realized I was in the presence of someone truly remarkable. She radiates our core value of Solidarity with her warmth and confidence. As a leader, Ms. Randle has propelled our school to new heights, achieving a 90% teacher retention rate and a 91% parent satisfaction rating. Her steadfast dedication to creating a nurturing environment for staff and families has significantly altered the course of our school."

The award ceremony was further highlighted by the attendance of Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana Secretary of Education, and Dr. Alessia Johnson, Superintendent of Indianapolis Public Schools.

Adelante Schools is a proud member of the Indianapolis Public Schools' Innovation Network and is operated by Adelante Schools, maintaining its commitment to excellence as a public charter school.

Pictures

Video

Media Coverage

November Family Newsletter

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 19:19:09 GMT

Warmest greetings to our wonderful families!

As we welcome the vibrant month of November, it's with great pleasure that we invite you to join us at our Gobble Gathering for a delightful Thanksgiving Lunch with your scholar(s) on Thursday, November 16th.

Here are the details for this festive event:

Kindly RSVP by Saturday, November 11th to ensure your family's participation.
For those who RSVP, expect a reminder email on Wednesday, November 15th, complete with details about arrival times and parking arrangements.
The lunchtimes are outlined within the RSVP link and will adhere to our regular lunch schedule.
We are happy to accommodate up to two guests per scholar for this special meal.
Enjoy a sumptuous lunch prepared with care by our skilled chefs in "The Commons," offered to you at no cost.

We eagerly anticipate the joy of sharing this season of thankfulness with you and your scholars at the Gobble Gathering!

Important Links

October in Pictures

YOU ARE IN!

Scholars in grades K-7 automatically have a seat for the 2024-2025 School Year.

This is great because we are currently on a waitlist. We will reach out to confirm your seat for next year this winter.

School Year 2024-2025

-Emma Donnan will keep serving grades K-8

-We will be increasing the amount of athletics offered K-8 and the amount of clubs.

Upcoming Events

High School Fair - 8th Grade Only

November 9th, 5:30 - 7:00PM

Our aim is to ensure every scholar is signed up for high school during the first round of Enroll Indy from November 1st to January 24th. Recognizing the significance of this choice, we're here to support you. Join us at our High School Fair Night for insights from local high schools and Enroll Indy, complemented by a free dinner and giveaways. We cannot wait to see you there!

Attendance Matters

Nationwide, as many as 10-15% of students (7.5 million) miss nearly a month of school every year. That’s 135 million days of lost time in the classroom. It is important that you scholar is here everyday and on time. Lost instructional time can result in learning loss and retention.

Scholars that are getting perfect attendance each month are celebrated! Here are some of the upcoming celebrations:

November - Free Sky Zone Pass, December - Popcorn Snack Bar, January - Donuts with the Attendance Team

Multilingual Family Night

November 15th, 5:30 - 7:00PM

Join us for our second Multilingual Family Night on Wednesday, November 15th, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM. This evening will feature a Resource Fair with a range of supportive organizations such as Adult and Child and Southeast Neighborhood Services, all geared toward assisting you and your multilingual scholar. Come explore resources related to mental health, primary care, career training, language classes, and more. And don't miss out—we'll be serving pizza!

Bears Bodega

We're excited to reward our scholars who consistently demonstrate our Core Values with a visit to our "Bears Bodega" every third Thursday of the month. As the month draws to a close, these points cumulate, allowing scholars to exchange their virtual currency for exciting prizes at the Bears Bodega. We're thrilled to roll out this initiative and eagerly anticipate celebrating our scholars' exemplary behavior.

REMINDER: Holiday Assistance Program

We have received all the applications for our Holiday Assistance Program. Be sure to check your child's backpack/folder in the coming weeks for you confirmation letter and any sponsorship paperwork that will need to be submitted.

Nov 8: All sponsorship paperwork due.

Dec 13-15: Scheduled pick-up times for items.

Family Advisory Council

December 12 - 5:30

Thanks to all who joined our October FAC meeting – our best-attended yet! If you want your child's Beginning of Year data, please email Reegan Homburg at rhomburg@adelanteschools.org .

Our next meeting is on December 12th at 5:30 PM, focusing on family satisfaction survey results. We'll collaborate on analyzing this data and planning forward. Your input is vital, so we hope you'll join us.

SAVE THE Date: Winter Concert and Celebration

December 6th, 5:30PM - 7:30PM

Celebrate the winter season with us! Experience a festive array of winter holidays showcased through music, activities, food, and a special visit from a North Pole guest. Our K-6 scholars will delight you with a musical performance from 5:30 PM to 6:15 PM, followed by other joyful activities until 7:30 PM. We look forward to seeing you there!

Winter Concert

12/6

Scholar Field Experiences

Field experiences are an extension of our curriculum and core values. They allow scholars to take their classroom learning and make it more meaningful. Furthermore, scholars build cultural understanding through field experiences and are exposed to worlds that are outside of their own.

Scholars will participate in academic and incentive focused field experiences this school year. In addition, each grade level will have the opportunity to visit a college campus.

Be sure to check out the school calendar for upcoming field experiences.

Community Events & Resources

October Family Newsletter

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 19:33:55 GMT

A Message from...

Ms. Randle

Greetings Families, Welcome to October!

Scholar of the Week Highlight

As we step into our third month of the academic year, the excitement continues to build. Stay tuned each week to discover if your scholar has been honored as the "Scholar of the Week" for exemplifying one of our esteemed Core Values. We love taking the opportunity to spotlight and commend these outstanding achievements.

Introducing the Academic Resource Page

For an enhanced learning experience at home, we're thrilled to introduce our new Academic Resource Page on our website. It's designed to empower families with a myriad of tools: from videos that elucidate the concepts being taught, handy cheat sheets in sync with classroom teachings, to curated academic websites for extended learning and practice. Dive in and explore! We'll be updating with fresh resources every month.

Our pride in our scholars knows no bounds. They continue to shine brightly, establishing themselves not only as academic frontrunners but also as exemplary character leaders. We're truly lucky to have some of the city's best and brightest with us.

To continued excellence,

Ms. Randle

Executive Principal

Important Links

September in Pictures

Upcoming Events

Family Conferences

October 20 - All Day

Report cards come out on Wednesday, October 18th, and family conference day is Friday, October 20th. Meet with teachers to learn more about where your scholar(s) are academically.

- 10/20 is a Remote Learning Day

- Conferences are from 8:00-4:20

- Families must sign up for a time

Fall Festival

October 26 - 5:00 - 6:30

Save the date the Fall Festival at Emma Donnan!

Trunk or Treat
Cake Walk
Games
S'mores
Spooky Hallway
And much more!

Support Academics at Home

One of our goals is for every Emma Donnan scholar to master their grade level standards for mathematics. By doing so, our scholars will become adults who are successful in business, trades, college, and any other pathway to financial independence.

However, the effects of the pandemic still linger. Many scholars are still working to master the basic four operations:

1. Adding whole numbers (i.e. 72 + 32)
2. Subtracting whole numbers (i.e. 99 - 48)
3. Multiplying whole numbers (i.e. 7 x 6)
4. Dividing whole numbers (i.e. 21 / 3)

By mastering the four operations , your scholar will be set up to learn their grade level content.

What can I do at home?
1) Message your child's math teacher to ask which operations they struggle with the most
2) Search in Google or on your child's phone's app store to access "free online math flashcards" or other free online math support sites like Khan Academy
3) Practice flashcards for 5 minutes at home every night
4) Create math situations to solve in every day life. For middle school scholars, have them find the better deal at the grocery store. When cooking at home, have older elementary scholars figure out what's needed to double a recipe. For younger elementary scholars, have them practice counting objects they see at home. The more scholars see math around them, the better they understand!
5) Remind your scholar to get their 4 Zearn lessons done every week !

Holiday Assistance Program

Emma Donnan is offering a Holiday Assistance program for our scholars in need. Thanks to community sponsors, we can assist a limited number of families on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please apply only if genuinely in need, and note this is exclusively for Emma Donnan scholars. Here's the program timeline:

Oct 25: Registration starts (online form).

Oct 30: Registration ends.

Nov 3: Sponsorship confirmation details sent home.

Nov 8: All sponsorship paperwork due.

Dec 13-15: Scheduled pick-up times for items.

Family Advisory Council

October 17th - 5:30

Join us on October 17th, 5:30PM for the Family Advisory Council Meeting! Our academic team will discuss your scholar's early-year test data, providing insights on their performance and growth strategies. The meeting lasts an hour, with interpretation services and light snacks available.

There will also be childcare provided during the meeting.

Volunteer with us!

If you interested in volunteering, sign up! There are many different opportunities to support our Emma Donnan community.

Once you sign-up we will reach out to complete some paperwork and get things moving. We cannot wait to have your support!

PowerSchool

PowerSchool is our student information portal. Families are encouraged to create parent portal accounts to login and check scholar grades and attendance. Please see the directions below for setting up your account.

Community Events & Resources

September Family Newsletter

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 19:47:26 GMT

A Message from...

Mrs. Kuruzar

Dear Families,

We're delighted to share that our first month of the school year has been a positive experience for everyone. A big thank you to all the parents and guardians for your support in helping the students settle into their new routines.

Smooth Start to the School Year

Your efforts—whether it's punctuality, participation in school events, or uniform purchases—have been invaluable. It's your support that makes a difference in your child's educational journey.

Back to School Night Recap

We're pleased to report that our Back to School Night was a success, attended by approximately 85 families. If you missed the event, please contact your child's teacher for any updates or information you might need.

What's Happening in September at Emma Donnan

Family events, start-of-year assessments, Scholastic Book Fair, Introduction of fall clubs, Picture Day

After-School Clubs

We're excited to announce that over 100 students have enrolled in after-school clubs for the fall. Confirmations will be sent out the week of September 4th. Limited spots are still available, so if your child is interested, please contact me for availability.

We're looking forward to a wonderful September and hope to see you at our upcoming events.

Best regards,

Leah Kuruzar
Director of Engagement

Important Links

August in Pictures

Upcoming Events

Book Fair

September 11 - September 14

The Scholastic Book Fair is back! The fair will run from September 11th to September 14th. Scholars will tour the fair with their class and be able to make a wish list. All funds raised from this event come right back to support our school. Families can also donate spare change in the Main Office to help scholars purchase books.

Family Literacy Night

September 14 - 5:30 - 6:30

Enter at Door 10

Mark your calendars to join us for our Family Literacy Night! This event will provide families insight into our DIBLES Assessment. You will gain an understanding of where your scholar is performing with different literacy skills and how you can best support them. We will also have our Scholastic Book Fair Open for shopping!

Adelante La Fiesta

September 30th 10 AM - 12 PM

Enter at Door 10

We invite you to participate in our Latinx/Latine/Hispanic Heritage Month celebration! We will celebrate the Hispanic culture with food from different Latin countries and live music. Bring the whole family to join in on the celebration. Please complete the registration form if you bring a dish representing your country. We ask that you bring enough food for approximately 25 people.

K-8 Homework Expectations

Homework can be a valuable tool to develop the following in scholars:

A sense of personal responsibility
Building the culture of scholars taking their education seriously both inside & outside the classroom
Allow families to see what students are working on in school
An opportunity to practice important academic skills
Develop the habit that will be essential for them to master to be college-ready.

Scholars will receive homework on Mondays of every week and homework will be due on the Friday of that week. Scholars are expected to complete homework each week, which counts as a completion grade in our grade books.

School Uniforms

All scholars are required to wear the school uniform. Scholars will begin to receive incentives and consequences for uniform compliance.

Tops must be a BRANDED Emma Donnan or Adelante School t-shirt, long sleeve shirt, polo, sweatshirt, 1/2 zip.

All scholars must wear the appropriate uniform bottoms. This includes: blue, black, blue jean, khaki shorts or pants. Bottoms MUST not have holes and be appropriate length.

The following items are not acceptable: sweatpants, joggers, leggings worn as pants, crocs, sandals, slides, biker shorts or athletic shorts.

Attendance Reminders

Being on time and present 100% of the time is key!

Our academic school day starts at 7:30 AM. When scholars are late or absent they are missing important learning. Please ensure that your scholar is on time and present every day!

Scholars that have strong attendance are eligible to participate in athletics and incentives throughout the school year.

We know there are times when scholars have appointments or are just ill. If you are able schedule appointments around non-academic times (lunch/recess) or after-school hours, it will ensure that students are not missing instructional time.

Family Advisory Council

Thank you to all that attended our Family Advisory Council Meeting in August! It was great to see new faces and get insight from families. Here are the next steps from the meeting:

Increase Academic Support at Home: We will be launching an Academic Page on our school website this month that will provide a one-stop shop for families.
Increase Opportunities for Families to be Involved in the School: Each quarter, we will share a sign up for volunteers. See below for the sign-up for quarter 1!
Increase student field experiences (field trips): Planning field experiences for all grades so that we're out and about!

We hope to see more new and familiar faces at our next meeting on October 17th at 5:30PM!

The Commons

A part of being one of the only schools in the area to provide fresh, from scratch breakfast and lunch each day is to capture feedback from scholars throughout the year. To learn about this, we are working with researchers at Indiana University School of Medicine to evaluate student and family satisfaction with the school food program. Scholars will take their first survey of the year soon.

We will NOT share any information that would identify individual students. Click the buttons to read the study information sheet for more details. Info in Spanish and English.

Scholar Health & Community Events

Be First Day Ready

jhabayeb@adelanteschools.org (Jordan Habayeb) — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 20:37:40 GMT

Dear Families,

Excitement is in the air as we gear up for the start of a new school year. As a child, I vividly remember the mix of emotions that the first day brought: the jitters of meeting new friends and teachers, the thrill of exploring unfamiliar classrooms, and the joy of diving into fresh adventures. That enthusiasm still resonates with me today, and I can't wait to see our students experience the same sense of wonder and excitement on their first day.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable start, I'm thrilled to share vital information you'll need. From arrival and dismissal procedures prioritizing safety and efficiency, to uniform guidelines fostering unity and pride – we've got you covered. Moreover, get ready for a delightful surprise: our exciting new partnership with Patachou, promising mouthwatering meals for our students.

The first day of school is a day of many emotions - nervousness and curiosity blend seamlessly with anticipation and happiness. But rest assured, we are dedicated to creating an environment where each child feels welcome, supported, and ready to flourish.

Let's make this journey one to remember and cherish for a lifetime!

Warm regards,

Mr. Habayeb

Chief Operating Officer

Adelante Schools

First Day of School: July 31, 2023

Doors Open: 7:20

Doors Close: 7:30

Dismissal Begins: 2:20

Dismissal Ends: 2:30

Arrival & Dismissal

CARLINE

BUS RIDERS

WALKERS & BIKE RIDERS

UNIFORMS

All uniforms must be purchased online. They are then shipped to your home.

Why?

This is a lower-cost option for families. The shirts are less expensive and better quality. You also have a lot more to choose from. Shirts arrive in 4-7 days from the time of the order.

SUPPLIES

Emma Donnan Elementary & Middle School provides scholars with all needed supplies. The only thing we ask that scholars bring with them is a backpack every single day.

MEALS

We are one of the only schools in the city to provide fresh chef-made meals to all for free. We now have a complete restaurant-style kitchen, and we are excited! Explore the menu for week one with your scholars so they know what to expect.

July Family Newsletter

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 17:43:33 GMT

A Message from...Mrs. Kuruzar

Hello New and Returning Emma Donnan Families,

I hope that you all are enjoying your summer break! We are about one month away from the start of the 2023 - 2024 school year. Can you believe it?

The Emma Donnan team is preparing for our students' arrival. Contractors are working on improvements to our building. We are upgrading our kitchen to accommodate our new food service with the Patachou Foundation, a new roof is being put on the building, the old wing of the school is finally getting updated, and our custodial team has been busy preparing the floors and classrooms for our students. The work never stops!

We had our first new family orientation meeting in June. Meeting our new scholars and families joining our school community was great. Students are excited to become an Emma Donnan Bear and look forward to the school year's start.

This newsletter will help you and your scholar prepare for the upcoming school year. Feel free to contact our front office with any questions between 9 AM - 2 PM.

Onward,

Mrs. Kuruzar

Director, Engagement

Mark your Calendars !

July 13th - July Open House for Potential New Families, 5 PM to 7PM
July 22nd
New Family Orientation Meeting, 10AM to 11AM
Back to School Tailgate Party, 11AM to 1:30 PM
July 31st - First Day of School for Scholars

Back To School Tailgate Party

Join us for out Back to School Tailgate Party on July 22 from 11AM to 1:30PM at Emma Donnan. There will be bounce houses, a dunk tank, FREE food, giveaways, school information tables, and community resources! Don't forget to show your school spirit by wearing our school colors. You will have a chance to be entered into a raffle if you show the most school spirit.

Franciscan Health will also be on site to provide immunizations aligned to the required school immunizations from the Public Health Department. All scholars need to have updated immunizations on file at the school for the upcoming school year.

Meet our NEW & EXP ANDED Bus Zone

Our transportation zone has grown! Do you live in the yellow area of the map? If so, you can have yellow bus transportation. This new zone makes it possible for many more of our scholars to take the bus daily. Explore the map at the link below. If you want to change over to a bus rider, please get in touch with the main office.

New Family Reminders

We are looking forward to welcoming all of our new families to the Emma Donnan family. As we prepare for day 1, please ensure that the tasks below are completed.

We are looking forward to welcoming all of our new families to the Emma Donnan family. As we prepare for day 1, please ensure the tasks below are completed.

New Family Orientation Meeting: All families must attend a new family orientation meeting before the 1st day of school. Two dates are remaining. Please reserve your spot!

Required Enrollment Documents: To complete your enrollment with Emma Donnan, all new families must turn in the following documents:
Copy of parent/guardian photo ID
Proof of residency
Up-to-date immunization records
Birth certificate

You can turn in documents at the Back to School Tailgate Party, drop them off at our front office during business hours, or email them to records@adelanteschools.org.

IPS Application: All scholars that are NEW to IPS will need to complete the IPS application. If you still need to, please use the link below to register. Contact Mrs. Fonseca, our Manager of Scholar Enrollment, if you need any support with completing the application.

Returning Family Reminders

We are excited to have you returning for another school year with us! As we prepare for Day 1 of school, we want to ensure that the information we have is up-to-date.

It is important that we have the correct information for your scholar on file. If anything has changed with the following, we will need an updated copy on file or you can update the information with our front office.

Updated Enrollment Documents:

Proof of residency
Immunization records - These must be updated with all the required immunizations for your scholar's age/grade according to the Public Health Department.
Authorized Pick-up
Contact Information (e.g., phone number, email)

These documents can be turned in at the Back to School Tailgate Party, dropped off at our front office during business hours, or emailed to records@adelanteschools.org.

School Uniforms: Order Now!

Don't forget to purchase your school uniform shirts! We have a new vendor and shirts are delivered to your home. The turn around time is 7-10 days.

Scholars must also wear uniform pants. Pants can be blue/black jeans or navy, khakis, gray, or black, chinos. Uniform pants should not have holes or tears in them.

Scholars that do not come to school in uniform will be asked to change.

Family Spotlight

School Supplies

Emma Donnan supplies most of the school supplies your scholar will need throughout the year. We do ask that parents provide a backpack for their students. Also, if your child is in Kindergarten, please provide a change of clothes (e.g., pants, shirt, underwear, and socks) in a Ziploc bag. Write your child's first and last name on the bag. We will store their bag in our nurse's office in case of an accident.

Free After-Care at Emma Donnan

Emma Donnan offers free after-school care for scholars in grades K-8. After-care is from 2 PM to 5:30 PM on school days. Scholars in the program receive a snack, recreation time, academic support, and daily hands-on activities. There are limited spots available. We ask that scholars registered for the program attend at least four days a week and need the program due to a lack of after-school transportation or child care.

Community Spotlight

Latinas Welding Guild Youth Camps

Calling All Future Welders in 6th-8th grade! The Latinas Welding Guild is thrilled to announce our inaugural Youth Welding Camp, where aspiring young welders can ignite their passion, explore the trades, and unleash their creativity.

Dates: WEEK 1 | July 17- July 21 WEEK 2 | July 24-28

Times: 9 am - 4 pm (Breakfast + Lunch provided)

Location: Latinas Welding Guild | 1936 S Lynhurst Dr Ste R, Indianapolis, IN 46241

For more information and to register, visit https://weldingguild.com.

Upcoming Events

Movies at the Mac - July 14th - 9PM - Free
Enjoy the movie Matalida!
Indianapolis Indians Games at Victory Field
Catch a game and a daily deal!
Tuesdays - Dollar Menu
Fridays - Fireworks
Sundays - Kids eat FREE
Canal Nights
Stop by the canal for FREE family-friendly outdoor activities and themed, hands-on experiments. FREE event!
July 12 - Chemistry is Everywhere
July 19 - Global Gathering
July 26 - Superhero Night - Emma Donnan will be there!

Memories from the 2022-2023 School Year

May Family Newsletter

Thu, 11 May 2023 12:22:14 GMT

A Message from...Ms. Randle

To our Amazing Emma Donnan Families,

I wanted to express my gratitude to each of you for an amazing school year and for allowing us to educate your child here at Emma Donnan. I have enjoyed building authentic relationships with K-8 scholars and watching them learn and grow throughout the school year. Our core values have helped inform how we guide our scholars to be leaders and the best versions of themselves. We have seen our scholars growing and working hard to give 100%. I am incredibly proud of our scholars for yet another successful year here at Emma Donnan, and I can’t wait to see what new endeavors await in the 2023-2024 school year. Have a fantastic summer!

Onward,

Ms. Randle

Elementary School Principal

Mark your Calendars !

May 19th -
K-6 Spring Concert at 8AM
Athletics Awards Ceremony at 6PM
May 22nd -7-8 Field Day - THIS DAY HAS BEEN UPDATED SINCE OUR LAST COMMUNICATION ABOUT FIELD DAY.
May 23rd -k-6 Field Day - THIS DAY HAS BEEN UPDATED SINCE OUR LAST COMMUNICATION ABOUT FIELD DAY.
May 24th
Promotion Ceremonies for K and 8th
Last Day of School for Scholars
May 29th - June 9th - Emma Donnan Campus Closed
July 4th - Independence Day - Campus Closed
July 13th - July Open House for Potential New Families, 5 PM to 7PM
July 22nd - Back to School Bash, 11AM to 1:30 PM
July 31st - First Day of School for Scholars

Promotion Ceremonies

We are approaching the end of the school year and want to celebrate our kindergarten and eighth-grade scholars' achievements and completion of two crucial academic years in their education.

Kindergarten Promotion

May 24th, 2023 at 8:15 AM. All families should enter through Door 1
Scholars are welcome to dress to impress or wear their school uniform.
A cap and gown will be provided for the ceremony but must be returned before leaving.
Families are able to take scholars home after the ceremony if they choose to.

8th Grade Promotion

May 24th, 2023 at noon. Families should enter through Door 1.
Scholars are welcome to dress to impress or wear their school uniform.
8th-grade families should RSVP for the promotion ceremony. Each scholar has five seats they can reserve. Please get in touch with Mr. Rooney if more seats are needed.
Families can take scholars home after the ceremony if they choose to.

JOBS AT EMMA DONNAN

Kitchen Jobs

As we prepare to have an entirely scratch kitchen for the upcoming year we are hiring. Working under our Head Chef, the roles are cooks, servers, and dishwashers. There are full and part-time roles open.

Main Office Jobs

Our team is growing, and we are looking to add an Office Coordinator. This role will work in the Main Office and is full-time with benefits.

Field Day 2023

Field Day is almost here! This year, field day will consist of indoor and outdoor activities that will keep our scholars active. All scholars will be receiving a Field Day T-shirt the week of May 15th. This shirt should be worn on their assigned field day. It can also be worn as a uniform shirt next year!

We are still seeking volunteers to help with indoor and outdoor activities. If you are interested in helping, please sign -up below!

Also, please make note that we had to UPDATE the dates for Field Day.

New Dates!

K-6 - Tuesday, May 23rd
7-8 - Monday, May 22nd

Next year's calendar has been posted online! Be sure to make note of the important dates and events!

The first day of school is July 31st and the Back to School Bash is on July 22nd.

Family Spotlight

Yearbooks

Yearbooks are in! We have additional copies for purchase in the front office. Yearbooks are $13. Stop by the front office to get yours today!

Front Office Summer Hours

Our front office will be open during the summer. Our team will be here Monday -Friday from 8AM - 2PM. The front office will be closed on the the following dates:

May 29th - June 9th
July 4th

New Site for Ordering School Uniforms

We have a new local vendor we are partnering with to supply our school uniform tops and they ship right to your door! There are many options for scholars and great pricing! We also have apparel for families. Check out the new site and stock up for the coming school year!

Community Spotlight

Summer Camps

Looking for something for your scholar to do over the summer? Check out all the available summer camps offered around the city. We will continue to update this page as we receive more information about camps.

Upcoming Events in the Community

Spring Carnival, May 11th, 5PM to 7PM, St. Andrew Methodist, Free Food and Games!
Free Food Distribution, May 13th, 9AM - Gone, St. Andrew Methodist.
Touch a Truck, May 13, 11 AM - 1PM, Garfield Park Burrello Center, Free family event!
IMPD Southeast District Community Day , May 17th, 11 AM - 2PM, Garfield Park @ Pagoda
Youth Basketball Skills Clinic, May 13th & 20th, times vary based on age, Burrello Center, FREE clinics but you must register !
INDY Reads Game Night, Every Wednesday, 5PM.
Garfield Park Farmers Market, Every Saturday, 9Am - 12:30 PM, Snap benefits accepted!

Our May Pictures

Summer Programming Options

Thu, 11 May 2023 01:27:11 GMT

Community Summer Camps & Programs

Below you are summer options for families to consider. These camps and programs have been shared with Adelante Schools. We will continue to update as we receive camp information. None of the programs below are operated by Adelante Schools.

April Newsletter

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 12:50:00 GMT

A Message from...Mr. Gammons

Happy Spring, Families!

We are in the last stretch of the school year! We have a busy seven weeks of school ahead for all scholars. One of the most important things happening for our scholars in grades 3-8 is ILEARN testing. Testing begins the week of April 17th. ILEARN is a state assessment that scholars take for English Language Arts, Math, and Social Studies/Science (depending on the grade level). Scholars have been preparing for these assessments to show what they have learned. Please help your child prepare for their testing days by ensuring they are on time and getting plenty of rest.

Our middle school scholars just took a field trip to the University of Indianapolis. The trip was an excellent opportunity for scholars to learn about a local college option and to explore what college is all about.

As I mentioned, we have a busy few weeks approaching and would love to see our families at some of our events to support our scholars and school. Come out and cheer on our elementary or middle school soccer teams, join our Stronger Together Community Event, or stop by our After-School Club Showcase to see what our students have been learning in their clubs this session. Lastly, remember to mark your calendars for our 8th-grade promotion ceremony on May 24th. More information to come!

Onward,

Mr. Gammons

Middle School Principal Fellow

Mark your Calendars !

April 18th - April 28th -ILEARN Testing for Grades 3rd - 8th
April 19th -Elementary Soccer Game at Riverside Park at 6:15 PM
April 20th -
K-1 Lead Testing
Middle School Soccer Game at Northwest at 7PM
April 21st - Adelante School Board Meeting at 8:30 AM
April 22nd -Elementary Soccer Game at Riverside at 12 PM and 1PM
April 24th - Middle School Soccer Game at Sidener Academy at 7PM
April 26th - Elementary Soccer Game at Riverside Park at 7:15 PM
April 29th -
Elementary Soccer Game at Riverside Park at 10AM.
Middle School Soccer Game at Longfellow at 9AM and 10 AM
May 2nd - Middle School Soccer Game at Longfellow at 7PM
May 4th - Elementary Soccer Game at Riverside Park at 6:15 PM
May 6th - Stronger Together Event at Emma Donnan from 11AM to 2PM.
May 8th -
Spring Enrichment Clubs Showcase at 3 PM
Middle School Basketball Game at TC Howe at 7PM
May 19th - Athletics Awards Ceremony at 6PM
May 22nd -K-6 Field Day
May 23rd -7-8 Field Day
May 24th -Promotion Ceremonies for K, 6th, and 8th.

Community Food Box Project

Emma Donnan Scholar Ambassadors partnered with the Community Food Box Project to place a food box at our school. Our scholars are finishing up refurbishing the box and plan to have it placed outside near the benches by door 1 for the community to access starting the week of 4/24.

The box will be available for anyone in the community. We ask that you take what you need and leave what you have.

If you can, we are also accepting donations to ensure we can keep our box full through the summer. All donations can be dropped off at the main office.

Here are some of the items we are requesting:

Nonperishable food (ex. Canned items, ketchup, pancake mix)
Menstrual products (ex. Pads, tampons, wipes)
Hygiene products (ex. Soap, toothpaste, deodorant)
Bottled Water
Small children’s toys (ex., Coloring books, crayons, books)

2nd Annual Stronger Together Event

We hope to see you at this year's Stronger Together Event! The event will take place on May 6th from 11 AM to 2 PM. We will have local organizations present to share resources, food, music, and games! All Emma Donnan scholars will receive a FREE meal. Please mark your calendars to join us!

If any families are interested in supporting the event with face painting or balloon animals, please contact Mrs. Kuruzar at 317-909-4734.

School Meals Feedback

Emma Donnan is using a new company (The Patachou Foundation, Inc.) to provide school food for the 2022-2023 school year. This means that your scholar(s) will have fresh made from scratch meals every single day.

We want to learn how school food impacts the day-to-day experience for scholars. To learn about this, we are working with researchers at Indiana University School of Medicine to evaluate student and family satisfaction with the school food program. We will ask students about their ideas for school food and how much they like the food that is being served. We will also share information about meal participation, attendance, behavioral referrals, and test scores at Emma Donnan with the researchers.

We will NOT share any information that would identify individual students.

Click the buttons to the right to read the study information sheet for more details.

Emma Donnan Wins Regional Math Hoops Tournament with the Pacers

Check out this highlight video of the NBA Math Hoops Tournament at Emma Donnan. We are so honored to be a part of this program!

Special shout out to our scholars who played in the final four tournament and are now the regional champions!

Next year's calendar has been posted online! Be sure to make note of the important dates and events!

The first day of school is July 31st and the Back to School Bash is on July 22nd.

Community Spotlight

Joyful Noise Summer Camp

Joyful Noise Summer Camp is open to scholars in grades 2nd- 7th. Scholars will get a chance to build musical skills. Breakfast, lunch, and snack included. Learn more and register at the link below.

Film Maker Summer Camp

Scholars in grades 5th-8th can join the Youth Filmmakers Camp this summer hosted by World Changers Summer Arts Program. Scholars will gain experience in screenwriting, acting, and film making. Please contact Trease Sears at tsears@WCSArts.org or 317-855-0296.

Energy and Water Assistance Program
Applications are still being accepted for Indiana's Energy Assistance Program and Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program.These programs help households pay a portion of their electricity, heating, water and wastewater bills, while potentially helping to avoid shutoffs. Applications will continue to be accepted until May 15, 2023.

Family Spotlight

Athletics Awards Ceremony < Save the Date>

Our Athletics Award Ceremony will take place May 19th at 6PM at Emma Donnan. Any scholar that participated in a sport this school year is invited to attend with their family. There will be an awards ceremony and light refreshments. A flier will be sent home closer to the event.

Join the Family Advisory Council

Looking for ways to get involved in our school? We are looking for families to join our Family Advisory Council. Our council meets once a month with the Adelante Leadership team to provide insight for current and future plans for the school. If you are interested, contact Mrs. Kuruzar for more details at 317-909-4734.

Field Day Volunteers Need!

We are seeking volunteers for our Field Days! Volunteers will be needed to set-up, run stations, monitor scholars, and clean-up at the end of the day. If you are interested in volunteering any time for one or both of the field days, text/call Mrs. Kuruzar, 317-909-4734.

May 22nd - K-6 Field Day
May 23rd - 7-8 Field Day

Our April Pictures

February Newsletter

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 19:02:26 GMT

A Message from...Mr. Habayeb

Families,

With so much love happening in February, we want to share some exciting updates with you.

In the past month, we took time to celebrate our school's namesake on what would have been her 117th birthday. We also celebrated perfect attendance with tickets to a Pacers game. The fun continues this month with our Muffins in the Morning Black History Art Showcase, the start of Spring Clubs, soccer season, and some spirit days.

In the name of love, we are constantly working to ensure that our scholars love our school. Take a look at the renderings for our new playground! It will be put in this spring, and we cannot wait!

Onward,

Mr. Habayeb

Managing Director, Operations

Mark your Calendars!

February 17th - Remote Learning Day for Scholars
February 20th - No School - Presidents Day
February 21st - No School
February 23rd -
Muffins in the Morning: A Black History Month Showcase - 6:45 AM - 7:15 AM
K-3 Digital Learning Family Night - 5PM - 6PM
February 27th - After-School Clubs Begin
February 28th - Scoops with Scholars - 5PM - 7PM at Square Scoop in Fountain Square
March 3rd - 6th-7th Grade NBA Math Hoops Competition
March 6th -
School Night at the Library - 5PM - 7PM at Garfield Park Library
Smile Mobile at Emma Donnan
March 7th -
Smile Mobile at Emma Donnan
IREAD 3 Assessment for 3rd Grade
March 8th- IREAD 3 Assessment for 3rd Grade
March 10th- Quarter 3 Ends
March 24th -
Asynchronous Learning Day for Scholars
Family Conferences

Thank you to all the families that completed our family survey! You can continue to share about what you love about Emma Donnan to your friends, family, and neighbors!

Help us revamp our Google reviews for Emma Donnan! All of our current reviews are old and from when Adelante was not operating Emma Donnan. Complete a Google review to spread the word about what you love!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Join Us For Our Upcoming Events!

6th-7th Grade BBA Math Hoops Competition

On Friday, March 3rd at 12pm in the Emma Donnan gym, we will have a special math competition for all 6th & 7th grade scholars, in partnership with the Indianapolis Pacers and Fever! Scholars have been playing a board game called NBA Math Hoops which challenges them to use their math skills to work together in teams and solve problems. We will be hosting our own tournament on March 3rd and parents are welcome to attend! Please enter through door 1.

School Night at the Library

Join the Emma Donnan staff at the Garfield Park Library to learn about the library, their programs, and sign up for a card. This event will take place on 3/6 from 5PM to 7PM at the Library.

Attention 7th and 8 Grade Families: 21st Century Scholarship

The 21st Century Scholarship program is available to all qualifying 7th & 8th grade students. Over 90% of the Emma Donnan scholars who apply are eligible. Scholars who are granted this scholarship are guaranteed free tuition to any Indiana public 2-year or 4-year university (i.e. IUPUI, Ivy Tech, Ball State, Indiana State, Purdue, IU, etc).

To sign your scholar up only takes a few minutes and could be worth over $40,000 down the road.

There are two methods to sign-up:

Online (preferred): Use this link to set-up an account through Scholar Track. From there, just provide basic information and you will quickly be informed if your scholar qualifies.

By Paper: If you prefer support with signing up, please email Mr. Rooney at mrooney@adelanteschools.org and put “21st Century” in the subject line. He can help you and your scholar complete the application via paper.

DO NOT miss this opportunity!

FAMILY & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Purchase A Yearbook

Yearbooks for the 2022 - 2023 school year are on sale now! Yearbooks are $13 and will be delivered to scholars in May. You can purchase a yearbook by clicking the link below! Enter school code: YB6176

8th Grade Families: Enroll Indy Round 1 Results Release

Families who applied for high school in Enroll Indy’s 1st application round should be receiving notification on February 16th for which high school your scholar has a guaranteed seat for next year. If you would like to change that school, you must re-apply via your Enroll Indy account.

After-School Clubs

Clubs start the week of 2/27. We have about 90 scholars signed up. Last week, your scholar brought home a letter with their assigned club and the dates and times of the club. Please be sure to review. All clubs end at 3:40 and can be picked up from door 8.

Smile Mobile

Last call for the Smile Mobile! Scholars that have already turned in their form will be seen in March by the dentist. If you are still wanting to schedule your scholar to see the dentist, please contact Mrs. Kuruzar and a form will be sent home.

We are here you help!

We will always help in any way that we can! Whether that is providing resources to you directly or pointing you in the right direction. Families can complete our assistance form below anytime during the year.

Community Spotlight

Supporting Immigrant Families Panel

Please join Child Care Answers, Early Learning Indiana and Coalition for their Immigrant Neighbors as we welcome community partners and immigrant families to share stories and learn about child care needs and barriers of immigrant families, as well as ideas to better work with and help the immigrant community.

March 8 at 4PM at Global Village Welcome Center. RSVP through eventbrite.com

VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program)

If you make $59,000 or less annually, you're eligible to have your taxes filed for free! If you need assistance filing, Southeast Community Services is operating on an appointment only basis. Call 317-236-7400 to schedule. Don't need assistance but need a computer? There will a computer lab on Tuesday evenings from 3PM- 6PM.

After-School Meal Service Presented by Indy Parks

Open to ALL kids 18 and under, children must be present and eat meal on site. Open Monday - Friday.

Christian Park - 4200 E. English Ave., 4:00 - 5:00 PM
Spades Park Library, 1801 Nowland Ave., 2:30 - 3:00 PM Monday- Thursday only
Frederick Douglass Park - 1616 E. 25th St., 3:30 - 5:00 PM
Pride Park - 1129 Vandeman St., 3:30 - 4:30 PM

Westminster Food Pantry and Soup Kitchen

Twice per month, neighbors who reside within our service area can select items from the food pantry, and anyone can grab a hot meal from the soup kitchen. Neighbors outside our services area will be served one time and connected to other resources.

Monday and Thursdays

Food Pantry - 9 AM to 12PM

Soup Kitchen - 10Am - 11:45 AM

Phone: 317-632-9785

2325 E New York Street

Indy Parks Family Survey

Indy Parks would like your input to help determine park and recreation priorities for our community. Representatives came to Emma Donnan this last week to hear from our students and they would also like to hear from families. Share your thoughts using the link below.

Our February Pictures

January Newsletter

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 15:06:59 GMT

A Message from...Mr. Gammons

Happy New Year Emma Donnan Families!

I was excited to see scholars back in the building last week! They were energized and ready to dive into our second semester. We are looking forward to having a productive second semester!

Thank you to all of the 8th grade families who came out and registered their 8th graders for high school at our High School event! We have over 60% of our scholars registered! If you were unable to attend the event and need helping selecting the best fit high school for your scholar, we can help you! Mr. Rooney has provided some additional information in this newsletter for families.

As we head into the 2nd semester in the middle school, we are making some shifts that I want to ensure you are aware of. We know that it takes a strong school-to-home connection to help our scholars be successful.

Starting January 23rd, middle school scholars will be assigned homework Monday-Thursday that they will need to complete and turn in the following day.

If you have any questions for me about our programming in the middle school for second semester, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Mr. Gammons

Middle School Principal Fellow

Mark your Calendars!

January 20th -
SmileMobile at Emma Donnan
100th Day of School!
January 23rd - Girls Basketball Game @ Global Prep 44 @ 7PM
January 25th - Girls Basketball Game @ Global Prep 44 @ 7PM
February 1st
Refer -a - Scholar Program Starts
Girls Basketball Game @ William Penn 49 @ 6PM
February 4th - Girls Basketball Game @ TC Howe @ 12PM and 2PM
February 6th - Girls Basketball Game @ HOME @ 6PM
February 8th -
Girls Basketball Game @ HOME @ 7PM
Quarter 3 Progress Reports Go Home
February 12th - Girls Basketball Game @ Christel House Manual @ 10 AM and 12 PM
February 15th - Girls Basketball Game @ HOME @ 7PM
February 20th - No School - Presidents Day
February 22nd - Girls Basketball Game @ HOME @ 6PM
February 23rd - Muffins in the Morning : A Black History Month Art Showcase

Operation Onward - SAVE YOUR SCHOLAR'S SEAT FOR THE 23-24 SCHOOL YEAR

Operation Onward is our re-enrollment campaign for the 2023-2024 school year. The campaign includes:

Families must reserved their scholar's seat with us for the 23-24 school year. If a family does not reserve their scholar's seat, we cannot guarantee we will have a seat for them next school year.
We are here to provide families with the best school and the best experience. Provide us with feedback from your experience this year to help us create the school experience you are looking for.

Complete this survey and your scholar will get a FREE t-shirt! All surveys are due by January 27, 2023.

Attention 8th Grade Families: High School Enrollment

Your scholar MUST be enrolled in high school on EnrollIndy.org by January 25th. If you do not enroll your scholar by this date, your child will miss the opportunity to go to the high school of their choice. Spots in quality high schools fill up quickly. Do not miss this deadline. Please reach out to Mr. Rooney at mrooney@adelanteschools.org if have any questions or need support.

Attention 7th and 8 Grade Families: 21st Century Scholarship

The deadline for you to apply your scholar for the 21st century scholarship is quickly approaching!!! This scholarship provides free tuition to any public 2-year or 4-year college or university in Indiana. You can register online at track.che.in.gov OR email Mr. Rooney at mrooney@adelanteschools.org for a paper application!

FAMILY & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Community Spotlight

Indy's Winter Farmer Market

Support our small businesses in Indy by visiting the farmers market! Open on Saturdays until April from 9AM to 12 PM. Located at The Amp Marketplace at 16 Tech (1220 Waterway Blvd). SNAP/EBT are accepted at the market. They even offer the Tripe-SNAP Match program!

Energy Assistance Programs

AES Indiana and Citizens Energy Group understand that utility bills during the winter months can be a financial challenge for customers. If you are concerned with paying your bills, there are federal and local assistance programs available to help.

Check out the programs happening at Garfield Park Library!

FREE Spanish Conversation Circles for Kids (ages 8-12). Wednesdays at 4:05. Registration required.
Young Scientists Program. Learn about topics in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math through fun interactive activities. Ages 6-10. Thursdays at 4:30pm. Registration required.

University of Indianapolis - FREE tickets

Our partners at UINDY are providing our families with complimentary tickets to their annual Pack-the House event for the women's and men's basketball game on January 21st at 1:00pm. If you are interest in attending, please complete the form below by January 18th at 4pm.

Family Spotlight

Spread the word!

Emma Donnan wants to reward our families for promoting our school to their family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues.

Refer a new Scholar and be entered into a random drawing for Emma Donnan swag and more! Applicants should contact the front office with the name of the current ED family and their email after they complete their Enroll Indy and IPS applications. Drawings will happen monthly and a BIG win drawing will happen at the start of the new school year!

Muffins in the Morning: A Black History Month Art Showcase

Mark your calendars for an upcoming event! We are inviting all families to join us on February 23rd from 6:45AM to 7:15PM for muffins and art gallery from our scholars that honors Black History Month.

Spring After-School Clubs

Our new session of after-schools club will start on February 27th. Be on the lookout for sign-up information the week of January 23rd. Spots are limited! Club participation will be on a first come first serve basis. We are excited to bring on several new clubs and be able to offer some of our favorites from the fall session.

Love Your School? Share Your Experience!

Help us revamp our Google reviews for Emma Donnan! All of our current reviews are old and from when Adelante was not operating Emma Donnan. Complete a Google review to spread the word about what you love about your school.

Our January Pictures

November Newsletter

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 18:52:27 GMT

A Message from...Mrs. Kuruzar

Hello Emma Donnan Families!

I hope that you had an enjoyable Thanksgiving and were able to build memories with your loved ones. Our staff is excited to be back and ready to use these next three weeks to continue to push our scholars to their highest potential to have a strong ending to our first semester. Shout to our 4th graders in TSU for making the most growth (18 points) on their Clearsight Assessments this month. Hard work pays off! Please help us during these next several weeks with moving the academic needle by ensuring your scholar is here everyday and on time.

During the month of December, we have several exciting events/projects taking place that we want to share with you!

Homerooms are competing against each other in a cardboard Gingerbread House contest. Scholars have been working hard on these houses all month. We will be posting the houses on our social media for all to see next week. May the best house win!

Our Holiday Assistance program is this month! Thank you to Project Play, Ray Skillman, and the many community members that made this event possible!

We added a K-8 Winter Performance to our calendar on December 20th.

Lastly, our community takes care of the scholars and families at Emma Donnan. We receive many donations throughout the year to support families when times may be tough. If you are in need anytime throughout the school year, please complete this form and we will do out best to connect you with the appropriate resources.

Enjoy your winter holiday!

Best,

Leah Kuruzar

Director of Engagement

Mark your Calendars!

December 3rd- Middle School Boys Basketball @ TC Howe @ 12pm and 1pm
December 5th - Elementary and Middle School Boys Basketball game @ HOME @ 6pm
December 8th - Elementary and Middle School Boys Basketball game @ HOME @ 6pm
December 14th 16th- Holiday Assistance Pick-up Days
December 15th - Adelante Schools Board Meeting @ 6pm
December 19th - Middle Schools Girls Basketball Tryouts @ 2:30 PM - 3:50 PM
December 20th - Elementary Girls Basketball Tryouts @ 2:30 PM - 3:50 PM
December 20th - K-8 Winter Performance @ 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
December 21st - January 6th -Winter Break - No School for Scholars
January 9th- Quarter 3 Begins- First Day Back for Scholars
January 11th- Quarter 2 Report Cards Go Home
January 16th- MLK Jr. Day - No School
January 17th- Staff Professional Development Day - E-Learning Day

Important Links

Holiday Assistance

We are looking forward to helping our Emma Donnan families with Holiday assistance. With the support of community organizations and community members we are able to sponsor 210 scholars.

Families may pick up their items December 14th to 16th. Families should come to door 3. The schedule for pick-up is as follows:

If you are being sponsored by Project Play, pick is on December 14th from 7:45 AM - 9:45 AM AND 2:45 PM to 4:30 PM.
All other families can pick up on one of the following days and times:
December 15th from 7:45 am - 9:45 AM AND 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
December 16th from 7:45 AM - 9:45 AM AND 2:45 PM to 4:30 PM

High School Enrollment

Where your child attends high school is one of the most important factors for their future success. Talk to your scholar about what kind of high school is best for them and your family. Then, here are your next steps:

Window 1 for Enroll Indy One Match has begun!
If scholars do not complete their high school application in Enroll Indy by the end of Window 1, they will likely not get a seat into a selective high school.
Go to find.enrollindy.org
Search your address and "9th grade"
Find information about the schools in your area!
Complete your OneMatch application & select your three top high school choices by Wednesday, December 21st .

Great schools are made with great teachers!

Two of our teachers were featured by Teach Indy on their social media for #mentionmonday this month. Thank you Ms. Nigam and Mr. Keys for all that you do for our Emma Donnan community.

21st Century Scholarship

The state of Indiana provides free tuition, books, and fees to all students who income-qualify to any public 2-year or 4-year college. This amounts to almost $100,000 of free money for your child's future. Scholars must sign-up before the end of middle school to qualify. See if your family qualifies and complete the application using the information below!

Go to https://scholartrack.che.in.gov/
Complete the online application by Wednesday, December 21st
All scholars who enroll by this deadline will receive a free gift certificate to McDonald's to celebrate!

FAMILY & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Community Spotlight

Mark your Calendars for these Events in the Community!

December 3rd & 4th: Shrek Jr the Musical @ Arsenal Tech. Tickets required. Click the button below to purchase tickets.

December 8th: Do you live in the Bean Creek Neighborhood? If so, join us at the Bean Creek Neighborhood Christmas Party @ 6 PM @ The Tube Factory. Bring a dish to share!
December 10th: Holidays Around the World at the Garfield Park Arts Center from 10AM to 1 PM. Holiday-themed arts and crafts, live music, performances, and more.
December 18th: Visit with Santa at Indy Reads from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM. No reservations required. Meet Santa and decorate cookies.
December 24th: Free Admission to The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis from 10 am - 2 pm. Advance tickets are required.

Schools Out Camp with Kids LLC at Emma Donnan

Schools Out Camp with Kids LLC is back at Emma Donnan for winter break. The camp is available 12/22 & 12/23, 12/26 - 12/30 & 01/02 - 01/04. Cost is $15/day or $60/week. Click the button below to register.

Family Spotlight

Winter Performance

Join us for our Winter Performance on December 21st from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM. All K-8 scholars will participate in the program. Scholars will participate in a musical performance and showcase art from the semester.

Elementary and Middle Schools Girls Basketball Tryouts

Tryouts for the middle school girls team is on 12/19. The elementary team will try out on 12/20. All scholars must be eligible for participating in athletics following the Emma Donnan expectations. Register for tryouts below and learn more about the eligibility requirements.

Our November Pictures

October Family Newsletter

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 13:02:33 GMT

Strong Start to the School Year!

Happy Fall, Emma Donnan Families!

This is my favorite time of the school year because of all the exciting events that happen throughout our community and school. We’ll be joining the fall festivities on October 27th as we host our 2nd Annual Fall Festival and I cannot wait to see our school filled with students, families, and community members! We also celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month between September 15 and October 15 and recognize the significant contributions of our Latino community to our school, city, and country.

As a proud partner in the Indianapolis Public Schools Innovation Network, Emma Donnan Elementary and Middle School is included in Rebuilding Stronger, IPS’s commitment to ensure there are excellent choices open to every single one of our students, in every school, in every neighborhood.

As part of the proposed Rebuilding Stronger plan, Adelante Schools and IPS have proposed to reconfigure Emma Donnan to a K-5 elementary school in the 2024-2025 school year. You can read more about how the proposal would directly impact Emma Donnan here or at www.adelanteschools.org/futurefocused . You can also read more about the district-wide proposal here or at www.myips.org/rebuilding-stronger . The IPS Board of School Commissioners will vote on the proposal in November and is still taking feedback on the plan.

I want to thank all of our families who have already reached out with questions and encourage you to reach out to us with any further questions or concerns as we maneuver potential changes throughout our school and district.

Eddie Rangel

Executive Director of Adelante Schools

Mark your Calendars!

November 2nd - Elementary and Middle School Boys Basketball game @ James Garfield 31 @ 6pm
November 7th -
8th Grade High School Week Begins
Cooking Matters Class with Emma Donnan and Indy Hunger Network @ 6pm, virtual
November 8th - Election Day
Emma Donnan is a voting site!
November 12th -
Girls on the Run 5k @ 9:30 am @ Raymond Park Intermediate & Middle School
Middle School Boys Basketball Games @ Manual High School @ 12pm & 1 pm
November 14th - Elementary and Middle School Boys Basketball game @ Emma Donnan @ 6pm.
November 16th - Elementary and Middle School Boys Basketball game @ Emma Donnan @ 6.pm
November 17th - Adelante Board Meeting @ Emma Donnan @ 6pm
November 19th - Elementary Boys Basketball Game @ TC Howe @! 12pm & 1pm
November 21st -
After-School Club Showcase @ 3pm
Elementary and Middle School Boys Basketball game @ Emma Donnan @ 6pm
November 22nd - Family Thanksgiving Event @ Emma Donnan
November 23rd- 25th - Thanksgiving Break- No School

Important Links

Fall Festival

Thank you for joining us for our Fall Festival! We were able to provide a fun night for over 400 people. Special thanks for all our community partners that supported the event!

Helm Coffee

Quality Ingredients

Southeast Community Services

Believe Circle City Prep High School

BeanCreak Neighborhood Association

Garfield Christian Church

Clearsight Testing

Scholars in grades 3-8 will take their ClearSight Assessments November 15th to 17th. ClearSight offers teachers a look into grade-level and standards proficiency. Because of ClearSight’s close alignment to the rigor of ILEARN, it also acts as a strong predictor of student proficiency on ILEARN. Teachers will use this data to identify the instructional areas of focus for particular standards.

You can help your scholar prepare for this assessment window by:

Ensuring they rested
Encouraging them to take their time and show what they know
Ensure your child is here and on time.

Celebrating Scholar Attendance

With quarter 1 ending, we want to celebrate our students who made All "A" Honor Roll and A/B Honor! The hard work and dedication towards your academics showed this semester. Keep up the great work and know that the sky is the limit!

Emma Donnan on WTHR

Did you see us share our good news on WTHR the other week? Take a look at some of the great things!

FAMILY & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Community Spotlight

Mark your Calendars for these Events in the Community!

November 2nd- Dia de los Muertos @ Garfield Park Art Center, 6:30-8pm
November 3rd - Newfields Community Day - Enjoy free admission to Newfields on the first Thursday of the month. Advance ticket is required.
November 5th - Far Eastside Job and Resource Far @ Far East Side Neighborhood Center, 8902 E 38th St, Indianapolis, IN 46226
November 8th - Family Game Night at the Central Library @ 5:30 - 7:30pm. Have fun with giant-sized games and enjoy our collection of classic and modern board, card, and dice games for kids and families
November 19th- Thatcher Park Harvest Festival - Free festival with music, refreshments and fun fall activities.

Cooking Matters Class with Indy Hunger Network

Emma Donnan is partnering with the Indy Hunger Network to provide a free cooking class for families on November 7th from 6pm to 7pm. Learn about ways to save money on groceries, healthy recipes, and tips on feeding picky eaters. In this class, we will also cook a meal! The lesson is virtually and we will provide you the groceries! There are limited spots! Reserve your spot by clicking the link below.

Family Spotlight

After-School Clubs Showcase <Save the Date>

Our last day of our fall session after-school clubs is November 21st. On this day, we will have a club showcase. All club participants will be able to show the work they have done this session. We invite all Emma Donnan families to attend on November 21st from 3:00pm to 3:40pm.

Holiday Assistance

The holiday season is quickly approaching! Emma Donnan will be partnering with other organizations and community members to provide holiday assistance for Emma Donnan scholars. A message will be sent out to families on November 2nd to sign-up for holiday assistance by 11/4. Last year, we were able to support over 200 scholars, we hope to support just as many if not more this year.

Our October Pictures

Emma Donnan Featured on WTHR

jhabayeb@adelanteschools.org (Jordan Habayeb) — Fri, 21 Oct 2022 12:54:20 GMT

Ready for some good news?

13Sports director Dave Calabro swung by this week to hear about just some of the good news here at Emma Donnan. Take a look at some of our scholars and staff shine.

Family Conferences - October 21st

jhabayeb@adelanteschools.org (Jordan Habayeb) — Thu, 06 Oct 2022 12:00:57 GMT

Family Conferences - E-Learning Day

Friday, October 21st is our Family Conference Day for Quarter 1 and scholars will have a remote learning day.

Family Conferences

Remote Learning Day

September Newsletter

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 11:15:41 GMT

Strong Start to the School Year!

Greetings Emma Donnan Families,

What a great start to our school year it has been. To those that were able to attend Back To School Night it was so great to see all of you in person! I have had the opportunity to visit classrooms throughout the start of this school year, and I am so proud of every scholar and the hard work they are putting forth. Our teachers are working hard with your scholars to build their academic skills and to also create a classroom environment that builds them up as young people by teaching our core values.

Families, continue to work with your scholar’s social and academic skills at home. Thank you for all that you do. We are all in this together.

Ms. Randle

Elementary School Leader

Mark your Calendars!

September 19th - Volleyball Game - Home at 6pm
September 20th -
Muffins in the Morning
Immunization Clinic at Emma Donnan
Picture Day
October 6th - Hearing and Vision Screenings
October 10th - 14th - Fall Break - No School
October 21 - Fall Conference Day - Scholars Asynchronous Learning Day

Important Links

Muffins in the Morning

Families are invited to join their scholar and the Emma Donnan team for a light breakfast and conversation! Click below to RSVP.

Rebuilding Stronger & Emma Donnan

Since the Fall of 2021, our partners at Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) have worked hard on their Rebuilding Stronger initiative. Their guiding principles closely align with what it will take to ensure that every scholar in Indianapolis has the school experience they deserve.

The plan impacts Emma Donnan Elementray & Middle School in the 2024-2025 school year. See our "Future Focused" page to learn more.

Immunization Clinic At Emma Donnan

Emma Donnan is partnering with the Indiana Immunization Coalition to bring a clinic on-site on September 20th. This is an opportunity for scholars to get their immunizations up-to-date for the school year. All scholars must have their immunizations updated and on file with the school by September 21st in order to attend school.

Complete the registration form to reserve your scholar's spot!

Enrollment Code: IN65942

Select - Emma Donnan - 9/20

Celebrating Scholar Attendance

Your child can not grow and begin their journey to high school success when they are absent. Our campus-wide goal is 94% of our scholars to be present every day. Shout out to our 3rd and 6th grade classrooms who have hit that target for the month of August!

Learn more about the statistics of attendance and the impact it can have on your child's success. You can build your toolbox on ways that you can support your scholar's attendance.

e hit that target this month

Picture Day

Bring your smile for picture day! Scholars may dress their best or wear their school uniform. Families can order pictures online. An order code will come home with your scholar to assist with online ordering.

FAMILY & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Community Spotlight

Community Health Fair

This event is free to the community! September 17th from 10am - 2pm at Garfield Christian Church. Free give-aways!

Community Resources

Check out these resources available to the community! The Southeast Community Services and Fletcher Place Community Center have joined forces to provide a food pantry, thrift store, and hot meals for the community. Enroll in the programs at www.southeastindy.org/pantry.

Food Truck Sunday

Looking for something fun to do with the family? Christian Park Churches is hosting a Food Truck Sunday on September 18th from 10:30 - 1:30pm. Enjoy live music, prizes, games, bounce houses and more. We will be there! Join us at 4301 Hoyt Ave.

Schools Out Camp with KIDS LLC

Emma Donnan is partnering with KIDS LLC to provide several Schools Out Camps during school breaks at Emma Donnan. The first camp will be held during fall break. Sign up before 9/30 and the registration fee will be waived!

Family Spotlight

Rebuilding Stronger Meetings

On Tuesday, September 13, IPS Superintendent Dr. Aleesia Johnson gave her 2022 State of the District address. In it, she unveiled the Rebuilding Stronger draft plan which, if approved by the IPS Board of School Commissioners in November, will affect our students and school. We will hold two meetings to review the potential impacts of the draft plan and will also update our website at www.adelanteschools.org for those families who cannot make it to an in-person meeting. The dates of the meeting are below:

Meeting 1: Friday, September 16, 6:00 PM
Meeting 2: Thursday, September 22, 6:00 PM (Spanish interpretation available)

Spread the Word!

Emma Donnan still has seats open for the 2022-2023 school year! Share what you love about Emma Donnan with your neighbors, friends, and family! We are excited to welcome new faces to our Emma Donnan comm unity. Have kids at other schools in K-8? Bring them all under one roof and enroll them today!

Homework

All K-8 scholars will have homework weekly/nightly. Homework provides scholars the opportunity to reinforce skills that are learning in the classroom. In addition, homework allows care-givers to see what their scholars are learning. Please partner with us and ensure that your scholar is completing their homework.

Pack the Stands

Pack the stands with the Emma Donnan staff for our last volleyball game of the season on September 19th. Come join us as we cheer on our elementary and middle school teams. Wear your Emma Donnan t-shirt, enjoy free popcorn, and cheer loud and proud for our teams.

Back to Night

Thanks to all the families that were able to join us for Back to School Night. We enjoyed sharing with you about the school and a glimpse into your scholar's school experience. For those that attended, you were entered into a raffle for a gift card. Congrats to the following families! The gift card will be emailed to you.

Maria Jaramillo-Hernandez
Anita Bunnell
Chelsea Turner
Cassandra Metheny
Amanda Lopez

Our September Pictures

August Newsletter

jhabayeb@adelanteschools.org (Jordan Habayeb) — Wed, 10 Aug 2022 14:59:38 GMT

Welcome Back!

Families,

Over a week ago, our doors opened to welcome hundreds of scholars back to school. You remember what that’s like, right? Being reunited with friends and teachers, fresh school supplies, and getting back into the swing of things.

Much of the same has happened for each of your scholars as they met their teachers and jumped back into learning.

Our Emma Donnan family is strong and growing! We have a few spots left in grades K-8. Do you know someone that is looking for a great school? Send them our way! Do you have kids that are attending other schools? Enroll them here so that they can be under one roof.

In this month’s newsletter, you will find updates for the month, info about events, and announcements.

We are proud of our strong start for the year and excited that it is just the start.

Onwards to a game-changing year.

Mark your Calendars!

August 15th - After-School Club Sign-Ups Begin
August 25th - Back to School Night 5:00-7:00 PM
August 31st - Quarter 1 Progress Reports are Posted
September 5th - Labor Day - No School
September 6th - Staff Development Day - No School

Important Links

BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT

Stop by our campus to see all that your scholar has already done this year and all that we are going to do togehter!

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25th

5:00-7:00

FREE PIZZA

Meet your scholar's teachers
Tour the school
Connect with School Leaders
Chat with Community Partners

Arrival & Dismissal Reminders

Arrival begins each morning at 7:20, and scholars must be seated in class by 7:30. When scholars are late, they miss instruction. In addition, scholars should be picked up between 2:20 - 2:30 pm. If scholars are picked up after 2:30 pm, it impacts our availability to be able to provide our staff with professional development and adequate time to prepare for instruction for the next day.

Uniforms

All scholars are required to be in uniform during the school day. Emma Donnan’s uniform consists of an Emma Donnan t-shirt, long sleeve, or polo and black/blue jeans, khaki pants, navy or black pants. T-shirts include any branded Emma Donnan shirt. T-shirts and long sleeves can be purchased in the front office.

EMMA DONNAN CELEBRATED FOR ILEARN GROWTH

All schools and communites are still recovering from the pandemic's impacts. As we keep pushing onward to provide the best education possible for our scholars, we wanted to share a bright spot with you.

Schools just like ours have found the way forward with accelerated learning for all students. Our ILEARN results from the spring outpaced many area schools and our proficency rates for students of color are one of the highest in Center Township. Success like this cannot happen without families like you.

Keeping Track of your Scholar's Grades

Progress reports and report cards will be emailed to all families starting this year. You can also see your scholar's gradebook in real time by logging into PowerSchool. To gain access you will need your scholar's student ID number which will be the username and their password is their birthday without any leading zeros. For example, if their birthday is February 1, 2015 then the password is 2/1/2015. This is the same info your scholar uses to log into computers at school.

FAMILY & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Community Spotlight

School Supplies

Thank you to the Bean Creek Neighborhood Association, IPS, and Garfield Christian Church for their donations of school supplies for this year. Donations allow for Emma Donnan to supply all school supplies for scholars.

Garfield Park Farmers Market

Did you know that you can receive FREE fruits and veggies? Visit the Garfield Park Farmers Market with your Hoosier Works card on Saturdays from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm.

Access Pass

Access Pass allows Indiana families who receive Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP), Hoosier Healthwise Insurance, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and/or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) to pay $2 for general admission to visit 13 cultural attractions and 11 historic sites in Indiana such as Bellaboo’s, Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites, and many more on any day of the year. Click here to get your pass!

Pacers at the Park

Visit Garfield Park on Saturday August 13th at 5:00 pm to meet some of the players of the Indiana Pacers Basketball team!

Family Spotlight

Spread the Word!

Volunteer Opportunities

Are you interested in supporting the yoru scholar’s school? We are always looking for volunteers to help out in different ways! We have opportunities to support activities during and after school. If you are interested in volunteering, reach out to Mrs. Kuruzar, our Director of Engagement, at 317-909-4734.

Afterschool Enrichment Clubs

Scholars will learn about clubs in their classes and will be able to sign up for them starting on 8/15. We are offering a lot of options from STEM, Yoga, Chess, and more! Sign-ups will be online .

Our August in Pictures

Be Day One Ready

jhabayeb@adelanteschools.org (Jordan Habayeb) — Fri, 29 Jul 2022 14:26:50 GMT

School Starts August 1, 2022

Here is your one stop shop for all Back to School Information

Partners Brighten the Holidays for over 200 Scholars

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 15:54:46 GMT

It Takes A Village

We know that the holidays can cause an extra strain during an already difficult time. At Emma Donnan, we wanted our families to have an enjoyable time with their family and make memories without an extra burden.

With the support of our community, we were able to support over 200 scholars! Our community partners went above and beyond to ensure that Emma Donnan families had what they needed for the holidays. We want to give a special thanks to all of our partners who made this possible!

Thank you to Ray Skillman Ford for providing clothes and toys for our scholars.

Thank you to Project Play, a non-profit organization, for providing bags and bags of toys and books for families to enjoy.

Sending thanks all the way to the Northside of Indianapolis to Orchard School, who hosted a clothing and toy drive for Emma Donnan scholars and families.

We are grateful to the Bean Creek Neighborhood Association who donated winter coats and food for families.

We also appreciate the support of our staff and other community members near and far that sponsored families and dropped-off donations.

Emma Donnan Partners with City Connects - WRTV News

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 17:17:27 GMT

Working to Ensure all Scholars are Supported

With the impact of the pademic ongoing, learn about what we're doing to provide even more support for our scholars.

Adelante Schools Raises Teacher Pay in Partnership with Indianapolis Public Schools

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 17:06:22 GMT

An Invesment in Our Future

Adelante Schools which operates Emma Donnan Elementary and Middle School’s Board of Directors approved a 3% increase in teacher pay using Referendum funds shared with Innovation Schools by Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS).

“From our founding, having the strongest teachers has been core to our model, and we know that compensation is a huge part of what drives that and this Referendum sharing was made possible by IPS,” said Executive Director Eddie Rangel.

“With Adelante as a member of the IPS Portfolio of schools, our board has been and continues to be proud of the partnership between our Adelante team and IPS,” Adelante Schools’ Board Chair Kristy Kainrath shared. “The sharing of Referendum funds is just another example of how innovation in our school is bolstered by putting kids and teachers first.”

The 3% increase in pay begins immediately and is retroactive to July of 2021. Adelante Schools operates Emma Donnan Elementary and Middle School on the southside of Indianapolis and has a staff of 48 with 31 teaching positions impacted by this raise. All shared Referendum funds will be put towards teacher compensation and student support.

“We are working to redefine what it means to work and thrive in a school. COVID-19 has shed some light on the steps that must be taken to ensure that teachers can be their best, and we know that means balance and competitive compensation,” Managing Director of Operations Jordan Habayeb said. “We have increased overall benefits, doubled our family leave policy, and shifted to flexible paid time off so that our team can stay

healthy and take care of their families.”

Rangel added that “To move the needle alongside kids and families, we have to have the best team in our building. Our continued partnership with the district and our long-term model will make that happen. Between this increase in pay and the impact of COVID-19 funding, the stage is set for genuinely transformational learning and leading in our school. It is clear that the IPS board decision has equity at its core.”

adelante-new

April Family Newsletter

A message from...Mr. Gavin

IMPORTANT DATES

After-School Programs

GRADE LEVEL NEWS

Community Resources

March Family Newsletter

IMPORTANT DATES

After-School Programs

GRADE LEVEL NEWS

Community Resources

February Family Newsletter

IMPORTANT DATES

After-School Programs

GRADE LEVEL NEWS

Community Resources

January Family Newsletter

IMPORTANT DATES

ATHLETICS

GRADE LEVEL NEWS

Community Resources

December Family Newsletter

A Message from Mrs. Kuruzar...

BIG NEWS!

Adelante @ Emma Donnan Earns Massive Grant

﻿ Happening this Month

Upcoming Events

Winter Celebration Family Event

Enrolling for the 26-27 School Year

Bears Bodega

Holiday Assistance Update

Updates/Reminders

New Team Member: Director of Academic Collaboration Team

ATHLETICS

What's Happening?

Community Resources

Adelante Schools Secures Major Lilly Endowment Inc. Funding to Advance Instruction, Improve Learning Environments, and Fund Educator Advancement

Strengthening Academic Pathways Through Strategic Investment in Students and Staff

November Family Newsletter

October in Pictures

﻿ Happening this Month

Upcoming Events

Gobble Gathering

Onward to High School: Helping 8th Graders Plan for the Future

December Events

Support During SNAP Benefit Challenges

Holiday Assistance Update

Updates/Reminders

After-School Clubs

New Director of Culture

Attendance

Athletics - Show Your School Spirit

Emma Donnan's Parent Hub

What's Happening?

Community Resources

October Family Newsletter

September in Pictures

﻿ Happening this Month

Upcoming Events

Fall Festival - October 23rd

Onward to High School: Helping 8th Graders Plan for the Future

Family Satisfaction Survey - Opens October 22

Family Conference Day - Sign-ups Open!

Holiday Assistance Program

﻿ Updates

After-School Clubs

SEL Survey for Students

General Reminders

Athletics

Emma Donnan's Parent Hub

What's Happening?

Community Resources

September Family Newsletter

July & August in Pictures

﻿ Happening this Month

Upcoming Events

Fall After School Clubs - Sign-Ups End Friday, 9/5

Scholastic Book Fair Starts September 8th

Progress Reports - September 10th

Happening this Month

Happening this Month

Happening this Month

Updates

Happening this Month

Updates