Fall Break
Monday, October 12 – Friday, October 16
School is closed for Fall Break, so have a restful week, and we'll see everyone back Monday, October 19!
October Family Newsletter
Leah Kuruzar • October 7, 2026
A Message from Mr. Gavin
This school year, we're putting a strong focus on Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). SEL helps scholars understand and manage their emotions, build healthy relationships, make responsible choices, and keep going when things get tough. These skills help scholars feel confident and ready to learn in the classroom, and they support them at home and in life too.
To make SEL a priority, every classroom has a dedicated SEL block built into the school day.
Grades K–5: Little Spot
Our K–5 classrooms are using the Little Spot curriculum, based on the A Little SPOT book series by Diane Alber. In the series, each emotion is a colorful "spot" character, like the Anger Spot, the Sadness Spot, and the Happy Spot. The characters give scholars a simple, kid-friendly way to name their feelings. They learn that all feelings are okay, and that when a spot gets too big, there are ways to help it feel calm again.
The Peaceful Spot: Scholars recently learned about the Peaceful Spot, the character that helps the other spots calm down. Scholars practiced calming strategies such as deep breathing and taking a moment to pause. The Peaceful Spot is also a calm, quiet place in the classroom where scholars can use these strategies when their feelings become too big. Once they feel ready, they return to learning.
What's next: This month, scholars will learn about anger: how to recognize when they're feeling angry and how to calm themselves down.
Middle School: Ownership and Overcoming Academic Obstacles
Our middle school scholars are learning about our core value of ownership. Ownership means taking responsibility for your choices, your learning, and your growth, especially when things get hard.
This month, scholars are focusing on overcoming academic obstacles, like falling behind in a class, struggling with a tough subject, or having trouble staying focused.
In their lesson, scholars:
- Identify common obstacles students face in school and how those challenges can affect learning.
- Explore strategies to get back on track, such as asking questions, getting help from a teacher, making a plan, and building better study habits.
- Practice encouraging others by writing an encouragement letter to a student who is facing challenges. This helps scholars build empathy and see that setbacks can be overcome.
These lessons help scholars see that challenges are a normal part of learning, and that with effort, support, and a plan, they can work through them. These skills will serve them well in high school, college, and beyond.
Thank you for partnering with us to help our scholars grow, both academically and emotionally!
Onward,
Mr. Gavin
School Principal
An Important Update
You may soon hear news about IPS and its Innovation Schools, including ours. IPS is facing financial challenges and is making hard decisions about how it shares costs with schools like ours. We want you to hear from us first.
Emma Donnan is staying open. Your child's school day, teachers, and routines stay the same.
We are proud to be part of the IPS family, and we will keep working closely with the district. Our charter is with the Indianapolis Mayor's Office of Education Innovation, and that does not change.
Our school is strong because of you. Our results are among the strongest in Zone 4, and we are fully enrolled with families waiting to join us. You choose Emma Donnan for the culture and consistency your child counts on, and that is what we will protect.
Our promise to you: we will keep you updated throughout this process and communicate with you directly, early, and often.
When news like this comes out, you may hear things that are not accurate. Please come to us first. We're happy to answer any question you may have.
Family Conferences
Connect with Your Scholar's Teachers to Support Their Success
Family conferences are the week of October 19–23. Sign up for a one-on-one meeting with your scholar's teachers to talk about their growth and goals.
Sign Up for a ConferenceLearn more +
Family conferences are coming up the week of October 19–23. We're excited to make time for you to meet one-on-one with your scholar's teachers and talk about their growth and areas of focus.
- Who: All Adelante families
- When: Week of October 19–23
- No school Friday, October 23: This is a dedicated conference day, so there will be no classes.
- How to sign up: Use the button above to choose a conference time.
We look forward to working with you to make this a successful year!
Event
Join Us for the Fall Festival on October 29!
Celebrate the fall season with trunk-or-treating, games, prizes, and food!
Learn more & add it to your calendar +
Join us for our Fall Festival! Scholars are welcome to come in costume and enjoy an evening of trunk-or-treating, games, prizes, and food.
- Who: All Adelante families. Bring the whole family!
- When: Thursday, October 29, 5:30–7:00 PM
- Costumes: Scholars are welcome to dress up.
- What to expect: Trunk-or-treating, games, prizes, and food
Come celebrate the season with the Adelante community. We can't wait to see you there!
Program
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.
Learn more +
This program has grown in popularity, and spots are limited. To make sure we can support the families most engaged in our school community, families must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Your student is enrolled at our school.
- Your student has an attendance rate of 90% or higher.
- All of your student's registration documents have been submitted in PowerSchool Parent.
- Who: Families in need who meet the eligibility criteria above
- Interest form window: September 30 – October 9
- How to apply: Log in to PowerSchool Parent to complete the interest form.
- Deadline: Registration closes Monday, October 19.
Please note: Submitting an interest form does not guarantee a spot. It only shows that you are interested in taking part. Final selections will be based on eligibility and available resources.
Program
Bullying Prevention Month
October is Bullying Prevention Month. Together, we help every scholar feel safe, respected, and included.
Visit StopBullying.govLearn more +
This month we remind our scholars, families, and community that everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and included. Together, we can prevent bullying by encouraging kindness, speaking up when something doesn't feel right, and creating spaces where every child feels they belong.
What we're doing at school
Throughout the month, our classrooms will focus on kindness, empathy, and being an upstander: someone who speaks up or gets help when they see another person being treated unfairly. Scholars will practice how to handle conflict respectfully, how to include others, and how to reach out to a trusted adult when they need help.
How you can help at home
- Talk about it. Ask your scholar open-ended questions like "Who did you sit with at lunch today?" or "Was there a time today when someone was unkind? What happened?"
- Define bullying together. Bullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior that happens more than once. It can be physical, verbal, social (like leaving someone out), or online.
- Encourage upstanding. Remind your scholar that telling an adult is not "snitching." It's how we keep each other safe.
- Model kindness. Children learn from how the adults around them treat others, both in person and online.
- Keep an eye on screens. Know which apps and games your scholar uses, and talk with them about being kind and safe online.
Signs to watch for
Changes in mood or sleep, not wanting to go to school, lost or damaged belongings, unexplained injuries, or pulling away from friends can all be signs that something is wrong. If you notice any of these, check in with your scholar and let us know.
If you have a concern
Please reach out to your scholar's teacher, school counselor, or school social worker. Every report is taken seriously, and we will work with you to make sure your scholar feels safe and supported.
Social Emotional Learning
Monthly SEL Survey: What It Is and Why It Matters
Each month, students in grades K–8 complete a brief Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) survey on the 2nd Friday of the month.
Learn more +
This quick survey asks students how they're feeling and how things are going for them at school.
Why do we do this? SEL surveys help us understand our students beyond academics: their emotional well-being, their sense of belonging, and any challenges they may be facing. Catching these signals early lets our team provide support before small concerns become bigger ones.
What happens with the data? Our team reviews responses to:
- Identify students who may benefit from extra support
- Guide our SEL programming and classroom lessons
- Track trends over time so we can better meet our students' needs
- Who: All students in grades K–8
- When: The second Friday of each month, during the school day
Your child's privacy: Individual responses are kept confidential and are not shared publicly. They are used only to support your child's well-being at school.
PBIS
Bears Bodega
Scholars earn Bears Bucks for positive behavior and hard work, and then spend them at the Bodega.
Learn more +
The Bears Bodega is our school store. Staff give out Bears Bucks when scholars show our OSOS values (Ownership, Swing, Optimism, and Solidarity) and follow our 5 Rules. The Bodega opens on the first Friday of every month and comes right to your scholar's classroom.
Our next shopping day is Friday, November 6th!
- Who: All scholars in grades K–8
- When: The first Friday of each month, in your scholar's classroom
- September attendance bonus: Scholars with 100% attendance in September earn an extra 100 Bears Bucks.
- This month's deal: Coupons are 50% off.
- Item limits: Grades K–2 can buy up to 2 items, grades 3–5 up to 3, and grades 6–8 up to 4.
- Saving is allowed: Scholars can save their Bears Bucks for a future shopping day.
- Coming soon: Our Quarter 1 Movie Party is on Thursday, October 22.
How you can help at home: Ask your scholar how many Bears Bucks they've earned and what they're saving for. Celebrating their progress at home makes a big difference!
IMPORTANT DATES
Upcoming Events
Swipe or scroll sideways to see what’s coming up.
Fall Spirit Week
Monday, October 26 – Friday, October 30
Show your Bears pride with a fun dress-up theme each day, and watch for the daily themes coming soon!
October Birthdays
Thursday, October 29
October birthdays get an ice cream treat, and families who want to celebrate at school should contact their scholar's teacher.
Election Day: Remote Learning Day for Scholars
Tuesday, November 3
Our school is a polling location, so scholars will learn remotely from home to keep everyone safe.
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<Remote Learning Day - Synchronous> Campus Closed - Election Day
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After-School Programs
After School & Athletics
Swipe or scroll sideways for the latest updates.
In Season
After-School Clubs Start
After-school clubs start the week of October 5. Mark your calendar for the club showcase on Thursday, December 10 at 3:00 PM.
In Season
Boys Basketball, Spirit Squad & Futsal
Our winter sports start this month! Practices run from 2:30 to 3:45 PM on designated practice days. Scholars must attend school that day to take part in practice. Contact team coaches with any questions.
GRADE LEVEL NEWS
What's Happening in K-2?
Updates from Mrs. Cowan, K-2 Assistant Principal
Field Trip for 2nd Grade
2nd Graders will be visiting Conner Prarie on 10/9. This is an outdoor field trip so please keep an eye on the weather to have you scholar dress appropriately.
October is Anti-Bullying Month.
As a school, we will talking to scholars about this and they will engage in activities to understand bullying and the impact that it has on others. Scholars are also learning about the emotion of anger and will be learning strategies to help them when they feel angry.
Weekly Homework Packets
Thank you for your support in helping your child learn what they are practicing in class. Packets are due on Friday each week. As always, remember to read to them or with them for 20 minutes each night.
Multilinigual Program
Annual Parent Notification letters and a copy of the ILP At A Glance for Multilingual students has been sent home. These resources provide important information about your child's language development and the supports available to them at school. Family Tip: Keep Talking, Reading, and Learning in your Home Language! One of the best ways to support your multilingual learner is to continue using your home language at home. Talk about your child's day, read together, tell stories, play games, and discusss topics your child enjoys. Strong langauge skills in a child's home language can help build the foundation for leaning English as well. Your home language is an asset - use it, celebrate it, and keep growing!
What's Happening in 3-5?
Updates from Ms. Nigam, 3-5 Assistant Principal
Upcoming Field Experiences
We have a lot of exciting college visits coming up for the 3-5 scholars!
On October 22nd, 3rd grade will visit Marian University.
On October 27th, 5th grade will visit Ball State University.
Last but not least, 4th graders will visit Franklin College on November 11th.
All permission slips are completed in PowerSchool Parent; there are no paper forms. Teachers will message when the form is available. Please make sure you are able to log in and access forms well in advance, as we cannot extend deadlines. You can always stop by the main office for support on accessing Powerschool Parent.
ILEARN Checkpoints
On Tuesday, October 6, and Wednesday, October 7, scholars will be taking their first ELA and Math ILearn checkpoints! This is their opportunity to show what they've learned so far this year and set goals for the remainder of the year. Please make sure your scholar comes to school well-rested on these days so they can do their best!
October is Anti-Bullying Month
As a school we will talking to scholars about this and they will engage in activities to understand bullying and the impact that it has on others. Scholars are also learning about challenging negative thoughts about themselves and affirming what is true and what makes them unique.
Multilinigual Program
Annual Parent Notification letters and a copy of the ILP At A Glance for Multilingual students has been sent home. These resources provide important information about your child's language development and the supports available to them at school. Family Tip: Keep Talking, Reading, and Learning in your Home Language! One of the best ways to support your multilingual learner is to continue using your home language at home. Talk about your child's day, read together, tell stories, play games, and discusss topics your child enjoys. Strong langauge skills in a child's home language can help build the foundation for leaning English as well. Your home language is an asset - use it, celebrate it, and keep growing!
What's Happening in 6-8?
Updates from Ms. Hills, 6-8 Assistant Principal
ILEARN Checkpoints
On Tuesday, October 6 and Wednesday, October 7, scholars will be taking their first ELA and Math ILearn checkpoints! This is their opportunity to show what they've learned so far this year and set goals for the remainder of the year. Please make sure your scholar comes to school well rested on these days so they can do their best!
October is Anti-Bullying Month
As a school we will talking to scholars about this and they will engage in activities to understand bullying and the impact that it has on others. Scholars are also learning about challenging negative thoughts about themselves and affirming what is true and what makes them unique.
Onward to High School for 8th Graders
We're launching Onward to High School this month, our program to guide 8th graders through choosing a high school. Our school counselor, Mrs. Hibschman, will lead the program with scholars. Along the way, they'll build research, decision-making, and planning skills that will help them in college and career planning later on.
What's ahead:
- October: Weekly Lunch & Learn sessions with Ms. Hibschman, our school counselor.
- November: Scholars will begin their state-required graduation plans. Families are invited to our High School Fair on 11/4 from 5:30–7:00 PM!
- December: 8th graders will attend a High School Shadow Day on December 8 or 9.
More details are coming soon. We can't wait to support your scholar on this exciting next step!
Multilinigual Program
Annual Parent Notification letters and a copy of the ILP At A Glance for Multilingual students has been sent home. These resources provide important information about your child's language development and the supports available to them at school. Family Tip: Keep Talking, Reading, and Learning in your Home Language! One of the best ways to support your multilingual learner is to continue using your home language at home. Talk about your child's day, read together, tell stories, play games, and discusss topics your child enjoys. Strong langauge skills in a child's home language can help build the foundation for leaning English as well. Your home language is an asset - use it, celebrate it, and keep growing!
Around Emma Donnan
Swipe or scroll sideways to see highlights from the past few weeks.
Our scholars proudly display the Mexican flag as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and the cultures that make our community strong.
Our scholars went the distance at the Apex Benefits Monumental Kids Movement 5K presented by IU Indianapolis!
Our middle school art students spent the day at the Butter Art Fair, exploring work by local artists and finding inspiration for their own creations.
Mr. Nance works with two scholars on the Marshmallow Challenge, where teams use teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving to build the tallest tower they can that still holds a marshmallow on top.
Our 8th grade scholars visited IU Indianapolis and explored the Idea Garden, getting a hands-on look at college life and the possibilities ahead.
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.
Sat, Oct 10: 10th Anniversary of the Indiana Young Readers Center
The Indiana Young Readers Center, established in October 2016, is a vibrant space where children can discover more about Indiana and explore the works of the state's authors and illustrators. On October 10, we invite you to join us for a festive celebration featuring author visits, hands-on activities, Storytime, a writing workshop, a special presentation, engaging displays, informational tables, and even a surprise guest or two. Come be part of the celebration of the Indiana Young Readers Center! No registration is required.
Saturday, October 10, 2026
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Indiana State Library, 2nd Floor
Earn $! RISE's Freedom Readers Fellowship Application
Learn More and RegisterRISE UNITED is accepting applications for the third cohort of its 16-week Freedom Readers Fellowship, which trains Marion County parents and caregivers in the science of reading and prepares them for careers as literacy coaches in local schools. Fellows receive more than 870 hours of training, classroom experience and $20-per-hour employment as instructional assistants, creating a pathway to full-time careers in education.
2026 Indianapolis Public Education Referendum
Learn MoreVoters within the Indianapolis Public Schools boundaries will decide on the 2026 Indianapolis Public Education Referendum on
or before Nov. 3, 2026. If approved, the referendum would fund IPS and participating public charter schools in three areas:
- Teacher Retention
- Classroom Resources
- Student Services
Center Township Community Events
Upcoming EventsFrom family events and community programs to opportunities to connect with the Trustee's Office and your neighbors, there is something for everyone.
Check out the events happening in Center Township this month!
September is packed with opportunities to connect at Adelante Schools, including Picture Day, the Book Fair, Literacy and Global Studies Night, and more.
May at Adelante Schools is filled with celebrations, end-of-year events, and moments that recognize the hard work and growth of our scholars this school year.
April at Adelante Schools brings spring events, important reminders, and preparation for ILEARN as our scholars continue building toward success.
