DECEMBER 2023

WINTER OUTERWEAR RECOMMENDATIONS

Just a friendly reminder:

With the winter weather upon us, please confirm

your child is wearing proper outerwear to school. 



We recommend the following items:

• winter hat
• mittens/gloves 
• snow pants 
• winter jacket
• winter boots
• shoes to change into 

Please remember to LABEL EVERYTHING! 

We will go outside for recess unless the temperature drops below -10 (wind-chill)

The following guidelines are used regarding winter recess:

• +10 degrees: Outside Recess
• -10 degrees to + 10 degrees: Supervisor’s Call
• -10 degrees: Indoor Recess
• These temperatures include wind-chills.

It is also recommended that your child has an extra set of clothing at school in those instances where their clothing gets wet from the snow at recess. 

Please reach out if your family needs winter outerwear for your student. We are happy to help make sure everyone is prepared for winter!

MONONA GROVE EDUCATION FOUNDATION

The Monona Grove Education Foundation (MGEF) recently kicked off its fundraising campaign – MGEF CARES - Children, Awareness, Resources, Education, Stability. These are the pillars of the MGEF as it supports the Teachers and Students of Monona Grove.

As we kick off this campaign, Mark and Laurie Rundle have generously stepped forward to match the first $25,000 raised between now and the end of the year. Mark and Laurie are continuing the tradition to support the students of Monona Grove just as Mark’s parents, Dick & Marg, had done for many years. The Rundles support the programs offered by MGEF, which are instrumental in ensuring comprehensive access to all vital resources and opportunities for all students. 

As a 501 c3, we fund our efforts through tax-deductible donations from families, community members, and businesses from Cottage Grove and Monona. Our original goal was to raise $35,000 this fall, however, we would love to count you among our contributors to exceed that goal via the matching funds of the Rundles’. Please visit our website for more information on MGEF CARES, our five other programs and how you can support. It’s important to note that all money stays right here in the MG educational community! And remember that gifts through the end of the year will be matched by the generous support of Mark and Laurie Rundle. Thank you for your consideration – together we can continue to support educational excellence for all students in the Monona Grove community!

DECEMBER'S SAFETY DRILL

Winnequah will hold a fire (evacuation) drill on Dec. 11th, for all students and staff.

The safety of our students is a top priority which is why it’s important for students to be present for monthly drills. This fire (evacuation) drill is designed to help students understand what they can do to protect themselves in the unlikely case of a critical event. In all cases of a safety drill, our staff will inform students beforehand of the drill and what they can expect so they are fully prepared. We follow best practices to use trauma sensitive language and exercises to mitigate fear and anxiety during the drill.  

What your student will experience: Staff will prepare students by explaining the purpose of the drill, what they can expect and what they will need to do during the drill. The drill will begin when the fire alarm sounds throughout the building. The noise of the alarm will be loud and there will be blinking lights from the alarm device. Staff will calmly and quietly guide students out of the classroom by instructing them to walk through the building to the nearest exit. Once all students and staff are evacuated at a safe distance away, staff will call roll to ensure everyone is accounted for. Staff and students will be given the all clear after the building has been identified as safe to re-enter. Once inside, staff will use trauma sensitive language to help students process the experience.

Students with sensory and other special considerations will be accommodated according to their needs. 

For resources on how to communicate with your student(s) about the importance of safety, visit our website.

HOOTIE HUDDLE

Learners worked together while using individual creativity to create a nest to represent their huddle. 

Paper sticks were used to create the nest and each learner decided how they would like to decorate their owl. 

Each owl was added to the nest along with a picture of the huddle. These will be put up outside each huddle location as another way to build a sense of belonging and for the school community to see all of our huddles. 

It's going to be a HOOT seeing all of the nests!!!  

SEL DECEMBER TOPICS

This month's social-emotional learning lessons will conclude our Emotional Regulation Unit. Students have learned about what causes their emotions, as well as tools to help themselves feel better. In December, students in Kindergarten - 2nd grade will be learning about empathy and friendship skills. Students in 3rd - 5th grade will be learning about executive functioning skills (organization, time management, prioritizing.)

All students will celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities by learning more about disabilities, and people with disabilities who have accomplished great things. Students will also learn about Hanukkah and how students in our school celebrate this holiday.

4th GRADE MUSIC OPPORTUNITY

Fourth Graders are invited to perform the National Anthem while enjoying a Madison Capitols game with friends and family on Saturday, December 9th. The game will take place at Bob Suter's Capitol Ice Arena in Middleton at 7:05 p.m.

If you and your student are able to attend, please let Mrs.Ehlers know here and purchase your tickets for anyone attending (student included) using the link below.

Tickets are available to Winnequah Families at the special rate of $11 using this link - tickets purchased with our link will be seated together. 

Please feel free to reach out with any questions!

- Sara Ehlers sara.ehlers@mgschools.net

VIEW MORE INFORMATION IN DIGITAL FLYERS

FROM THE

SCHOOL OFFICE

Important

Information Regarding:

• Attendance
• Transportation
• Lost and Found

WHEN TO KEEP

SICK KIDS HOME

For more information:



Notes from the

School Nurse

If you have any questions, please contact

Ms. Jackson in the health office:

608-221-7677 ws.healthroom.mgschools.net

5301 Monona Drive, Monona, WI 53716  Phone: (608) 221-7660  Fax: (608) 221-7688