October Family Newsletter

Leah Kuruzar • October 1, 2025

Hello Emma Donnan Families!


We are wrapping up our second month of school and quickly approaching the end of the first quarter. We’re incredibly proud of our K–8 students and staff for their hard work in establishing strong systems and routines from the very beginning. This foundation allows us to keep our focus on what matters most, academic growth and achievement.


Our first round of report cards will be sent home this month and can be accessed on Powerschool Parent. In addition, we will be scheduling parent-teacher conferences to discuss your child’s progress. Please be sure to sign up for a time slot, your partnership is essential in helping your scholar succeed.


In the spirit of that partnership, we also want to remind families that we are here to support you beyond the classroom. We are fortunate to collaborate with several community organizations that provide donations such as school supplies, clothing, undergarments, food, hygiene items, and more. If your family is ever in need, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our Assistance Request Form is included in each family newsletter below this message.


Lastly, we will have two school closings this month, so be sure to mark your calendars!


Fall Break - October 13th - October 17th. Classes resume on October 20th. 


Remote Learning Day - Friday, October 24th, is a Remote Learning Day. Teachers will post assignments for students to complete at home. Please ensure your scholar finishes their work, as this is how they will receive credit for the day.


Thank you for your continued support!


Leah Kuruzar

Director of Engagement 

September in Pictures

View more


Happening this Month


Upcoming Events

October 2025

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<Important> Conference Sign-Ups Open

<Important> Conference Sign-Ups Open

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<Important> National Custodian Day

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<Field Trip> Depauw University (7th Grade)

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<Sport> K-3 Basketball Clinics

<Sport> Cheerleading Clinics K-3

<Event> September Perfect Attendance Celebration

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<Sport> Elementary Cheer Tryouts

<Assessment> Checkpoint #1: ELA

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<Sport> Futsal Tryouts

<Assessment> Checkpoint #1: Math

<Assessment> Checkpoint #1: Math

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<Sport> K-3 Basketball Clinics

<Field Trip> Ball State (5th Grade)

<Sport> Cheerleading Clinics K-3

<Grades> Quarter 1 Ends

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<No School> Fall Break

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<No School> Fall Break

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<No School> Fall Break

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<No School> Fall Break

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<Sport> Cheerleading Clinics K-3

<No School> Fall Break

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<Grades> Quarter 2 Begins

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<Sport> MS Cheer Tryouts

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<FYI> Holiday Assistance Sign-up

<Grades> Q1 Report Cards

<Grades> Q1 Report Cards

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<Event> Fall Festival

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<Sport> Cheerleading Clinics K-3

<Remote Learning Day - Asynchronous> Conferences

<Remote Learning Day - Asynchronous> Conferences

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<Field Trip> Conner Prairie (2nd)

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<FYI> Oct. Birthday Celebrations

<Sport> Cheerleading Clinics K-3

<Field Trip> Marian University - 3rd Grade

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1

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!

Emma Donnan's High School Selection Hub

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!


Family Conference Sign-up

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.

SEL Resource for Caregivers

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:


  1. 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
  2. Swing: We are one team, and like any team, we have a uniform that represents who we are and what we value
  3. 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 
  4. 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!

After-School HQ

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!

Emma Donnan Parent Hub

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!


Academic Supports

  • What's Happening in K-2?

    General Reminders

    Please be sure that your sholar has a change of clothes in their bookbag.  Accidents happen, milk spills, falling in dirt at recess, and not making it to the restroom in time.  We don't want these things to be the reason a scholar can't learn in their classroom.  It never hurts to be prepared.


    K-2 is the foundation for setting your scholars up for academic success.  Attendance is so important.  Please reach out to the school if you are having trouble getting your scholar to school each day, to see if there is anything we can do to support you.

  • What's Happening in 3-5?

    Checkpoint 1 

    Scholars will be taking the ELA and Math ILearn Checkpoint #1 tests on Tuesday, October 7 and Wedneseday, October 8. These tests allow us to assess what students know in the beginning of the year, and track growth throughout the year. Please make sure your child is at school on time to begin testing and brings their chromebook fully charged.  


    Field Experiences

    5th grade is gearing up to to visit Ball State University on October 10th to get a taste of college life! 

  • What's Happening in 6-8?

    Our 7th graders scholars will be going to Depauw University Thursday, October 2! Please reach out to your scholar's homeroom teacher with any questions!


    General reminders to all Middle School families!

    Scholars will be taking the ELA and Math ILearn Checkpoint #1 tests on Tuesday, October 7 and Wedneseday, October 8. These tests allow us to assess what students know in the beginning of the year, and track growth throughout the year. Please make sure your child is at school on time to begin testing and brings their chromebook fully charged.  

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.

  • Westminster Neighborhood Services

    Food Pantry

    Monday - 9AM - 12PM

    Tuesday - 6PM - 7PM

    Thursday 9AM - 12PM


    A current piece of mail is required. 


    Soup Kitchen

    Monday - 10AM - 11:45AM

    Thursday - 10AM - 11:45 AM


    Westminster Boundaries

    North: 70/65 corridor

    South: Railroad track between Washington/Southeastern St.

    West: Pine Street

    East: Emerson St


    Contact Information

    2325 E New York Street Indianapolis, IN 46201

    317-632-9785



    Register Here!

  • Community Resource Day - FREE

    Sponsored by Citizens Energy Group.


    Join us for a day of free food, backpack giveaways, free hats and gloves, activities, and much more!


    October 4th - 10AM - 1PM

    2020 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46202


    Learn More

  • FREE Fall Activities

    Special Event | Spooktacular Treat Fest | Garfield Park Burrello Family Center


    2345 Pagoda Drive Indianapolis, IN 46203


    Join us on Wednesday, October 29th for a spooktacular evening of Trick or Treating at The Burrello Family Center! Enjoy a variety of Halloween-themed decorations, tables FILLED with candy, and a showing of Shrek from 5:30-7:00. Don’t miss out on the festive fun!


    Trail & Treat on the Canal 

    Saturday, October 18 | 5:00- 7:00 PM | Downtown Canal


    FREE | Family and Dog-Friendly 


    Join us for Trail and Treat on the Canal! This FREE family-friendly event features a safe route with several stops to collect treats and do fun activities along the scenic Downtown Canal.


    The trick-or-treat has no official start, direction, or order. Go to a few stops or complete them all over the entire route! Walk, run, stroll, or bike between each stop with confidence knowing that the route is car-free and well-lit. Information and restrooms are available by the Colts Canal Playspace and Orange Bridge, near the intersection of Walnut St. and Senate Ave. 


    Trail & Treat is FREE to the public and family (and dog) friendly. Registration is strongly encouraged.


    Trail & Treat on the Canal is powered by PNC Foundation and made possible through a partnership between the Indianapolis Cultural Trail and the Indianapolis Department of Metropolitan Development. It is supported by a variety of community partners, organizations, and local businesses hosting stops along the route.


    Fall Festival at Concord Neighborhood Center

    Saturday, October 4th, 3PM -7PM

    1320 S. Meridian Street

    • Carnival Games
    • Face Painting 
    • Arts &Crafts
    • Food Trucks
    • Bingo 
    • Prize Drawings
    • And more!



    Trail and Treat Registration

  • 2-1-1 Resources

    2-1-1 can get you connected to many resources! Get connected by phone Monday - Friday offering English and Spanish communication. 

    Learn More

September Family Newsletter

By Leah Kuruzar • September 3, 2025
Catch up on September at Adelante Schools. See scholar highlights, Crew moments, and the joyful energy kicking off this school year.

May Family Newsletter

By Leah Kuruzar • May 8, 2025
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April Family Newsletter

By Leah Kuruzar • April 8, 2025
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