Elysian Charter School of Hoboken
Elysian Charter School of Hoboken
www.ecsnj.org friendsofelysian.org
Harry Laub, Ph.D., Director
Elysian Charter School
Weekly Newsletter

A Positively Different Public School

May 22, 2017         Vol. 12  Issue 35
The school newsletter is sent out on Mondays.  When there is a holiday, the newsletter is sent the following day. 

Please note:  send news to lynne.shapiro@ecsnj.org by 1:00 PM on Mondays.
Harry's Corner

This Week In Pictures:
  1. Field Day
The success of field day is due to the hard work of Adam, our physical education teacher, and the volunteers, who gave their time and energy.  A huge thank you to:
Adam Froimowitz            Nina Blake                   Mona Sarafa                   Ed McCarthy
Renee Levine                  Andrea O’Connor         Anna Stanin                    Bridget Glynn
Cecilia Bejar                   Gina Alia                      Maureen Phalen               Dusty Weideman
Carrie Campbell              Jenn Napolitani            Steve Napolitani              Derek Barnes
Brian Blake                     Michele Linder             Jen Weiss                        Sara Green
Michele McCue              Veronica Rifkin            Mitzi Joss                        Giles Alderson
Rob Jenkins                     Jenn Nilsen                  Danny Spiegel                  Brad Simon
Marisa Simon              Stephanie Gaasterland     Michael Gazaleh               Michael Granit
Boomer Beaumont          Jennifer Giattino        Lauree Barnes

2. Fundraiser at Ben & Jerry’s for Hoboken Family Alliance’s Bicycle Camp for Disabled Children.
Board Member Paul Ballantyne and teachers Joanna Weintraub and Cristina Francisco scoop ice cream!
3. Lunch with the Principal
At Friends Annual Gala and Auction one item up for bid was Lunch with the Principal.  This year Megan Phalen won that honor.  She brought along her two friends, Danielle Katell and Kaylee Inglis.
4.  6th Grade Concert
Each year the 6th grade plays the music that they have composed as part of the their end of year performance.
5. Spring Fling
On Friday night our middle schoolers attended the Spring Fling, our annual dance.
After School Enrichment Clubs:

This Friday, due to the 1/2 day, Beanie Boo Club will run from 12:45-1:45 pm.  Please plan accordingly for pick up.
Shrek Jr. the Musical!  Comes to Elysian
Featuring actors from grades 3 to 5.  The performances will take place at Miles Square Theater, 1400 Clinton Street.
Wednesday, May 24 at 9:30 A.M., 1:15 P.M., 5:15 P.M. 7:15 P.M.*
Thursday  9:30 A.M.
*7:15 P.M. show is sold out.
May 30 - Come to The 3rd Grade Morgan Book Project Celebration
You're invited to the 3rd grade celebration
in honor of their completion of a year- long book arts project
in conjunction with the Morgan Library & Museum
Tuesday, May 30th
8:45  Presentation for Family and Friends in the gym, followed by tours of exhibition.
10:00 – 11:30 and 12:30 – 2:30 Classroom visits, Q & A’s, and tours with 3rd Graders.
12 PM – 3rd Grade cuts book arts cake (thanks to parent, Cecilia Bejar)
 
Books will be exhibited in 6th grade classrooms on the 3rd floor during the day.
Coffee and donuts for adults will be available in the Room of Requirement, 3rd floor, 8:30
1640 Garden Street/Hoboken, NJ 07030/ 201 876-0102 
If you are planning to come at a time other than 8:45, please contact Lynne Shapiro, lynne.shapiro@ecsnj.org to join a tour or arrange a 3rd grade guide. 

Project Overview:
In the fall students visited the Morgan to view primary sources and draw inspiration from the museum’s medieval and Renaissance illuminated manuscripts.  Each student then set out to create their own stories and illustrations. Their books were created with professional paper and binding materials.  .  They used bone folders to fold pages.  Paint was made by using the historical methods of grinding traditional pigment sources such as malachite, saffron, and cochineal.  They applied gold leaf to illuminate their books.  Each book is as unique as the student who created it.
Elysian's Elementary and Middle School Rugby Clubs Had A Fantastic Weekend of Competition!

Our middle school team, consisting of 10 of Elysian's finest ruggers in grades 6-8, competed in an 8-team tournament on Randall's Island in NYC on Saturday morning. Our 10 players (Luc, Vincent, Eli, Sean, Frankie, Ty, Ewan, Lucas, Donato and Mason) were actually split into 2 separate teams competing in several 5 on 5 matches. Both of our teams made it to the semi-finals with one of our teams taking home first place overall (with a shiny new trophy to prove it)! All ruggers showed great sportsmanship and really worked together as a team.

The elementary team, consisting of 9 of Elysian's finest ruggers in grades 4-5, competed in a 6-team scrimmage tournament at Chelsea Waterside Park in NYC on Sunday afternoon. Our 9 players (Colin, Gavin, Jared, Alex, Sergio, Eashan, Nico, Max and Evan) finished off the day with a 3-1-1 record earning high praises from the refs. for their outstanding teamwork and understanding of the sport. Colin Rutledge was specifically recognized by the refs. as someone who played at a high level with outstanding sportsmanship. He was recognized as the "Go Forward" player of the day. Congratulations to all that participated, especially to Colin for representing Elysian with style!

Our next event, for both elementary and middle school teams, is the NYC Rugby Cup which takes place on Saturday, June 17th on Randall's Island. Over 70 teams from the NYC metropolitan area compete in this all day event. 

Thanks,
John Rutledge

Film Seminar Students at Hoboken Historical Museum
After seeing the film, "Delivered Vacant", about the gentrification of Hoboken, students pose for a photograph that will be sent to the film's director, Nora Jacobsen.
Three Elysian Poets at Hoboken Historical Museum Publication Party 
Lily Marsh, Emelie Ayala and Emma Kaplum-Mueuller read poems from the new anthology, Identif-I, Writing From Hoboken's Schools.  Other Elysian students who have poems in the anthology:Kate Fournier, Ty Wholf, Mike Naumann-Pelto, Jack Giattino, Isabella Puro, Samuel Stoffel, Miles Savulich, Tom Duerden.  These students were in Regan's poetry seminar.  Regan has a poem in the anthology as well. Pick up a copy at the Hoboken Historical Museum.  You will find poems and artwork by former Elysian graduates: Rebecca Weintraub, Hannah Mack, Tavian Frasier, Jalene Borges, and Erik Mendez
Donate a New Book, Blanket or Stuffed Animal for a Kid's Tote Bag
After reading, Crenshaw, about what is it is like for children to live in homelessness, our students in third and fourth grade English  Language Service classes decided to collect  books, stuffed animals and blankets to fill tote bags that kids can take  wherever they may be living. 
We chose to do this through Project Night Night and the York Street Project in Jersey City.  York Street provides housing and services to homeless families in our area.  Project Night Night, which links with shelters throughout the U.S., is based in San Francisco, provides tote bags kids can take with them wherever they may find themselves.   

Starting on Thursday, June 1, three boxes at Elysian's entryway to Elysian will be for donations.  Please donate a new book, blanket or stuffed animal. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. 

Warmly, Alicia Weinstein, Teacher of English Language Services.

Good News
Asha Duerden, Elysian Graduate, currently attending Weekhawken High Schoo, was inducted into the National Honor Society! Membership is based on scholarship, service, leadership, and character. Congratulations.
Campaign For Elysian, Update #2 
Thank you to everyone who donated this past week! Our tally so far, including the Auction and other smaller fundraisers this year, is $84,985 ($23,790 from just the Annual Appeal)! Our goal is $125,000 by June 15. That means we still have only about four weeks to raise $40,015.
Elysian needs your support! Funds raised this year are designated for ongoing utility and maintenance costs; support for reserve fund for emergency situations; AND a public address system, which is a vital security measure if a lockdown is ever needed.
We are “All In” this together! Let’s finish strong in this third and final year of the Campaign! Every little bit makes a difference.
A FEW SPORTS BAGS ARE STILL AVAILABLE! We still have a few Elysian sports bags left so please donate today (or this week)! 
PAYMENT
ONLINE: You may make a secure on-line donation by visiting our website at:
BY CHECK: If you'd like to donate by check, please download a pledge form at this link: www.ecsnj.org/CFE-Year3-PledgeForm.pdf 
MATCHING GIFT PROGRAMS!
You may be able to double your giving. A number of companies match employee gifts, so be sure to check whether your company will match your donation. We will provide any information needed to complete your request form. (Any questions, please email friends@ecsnj.org.) Company matching has been a huge part of the Campaign’s success, so please keep it in mind! 
Our thanks to the following donors for their generosity (as of 5/20/17):
Meredith and Jason Hayes
Noa Linder and the Linder family (In honor of Mia McCue's Communion)
Andrea and Patrick O'Connor
Adriana Pacheco and Cathy Berger
Alicia and James Weinstein 
Company Matches
Goldman Sachs (via Lisa Spear)

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
See Screenagers, The Movie! This Thursday, 7 PM
Miles Square Theater, 1400 Clinton Street, Hoboken
We will be showing the movie Screenagers on Thursday, May 25th at 7:00 p.m.for students and their families.   To encourage families to attend together there is a single $10 charge for all family members. Click the picture below for the trailer, more info and to purchase tickets. Although recommended for 5th grade and up, any children who have a cell phone or use the Internet will enjoy and learn.
Click image below to purchase tickets!

Letter from Elysian's Speech Teacher 
May Is Better Speech and Hearing Month: Fostering Language Development in Children 
 Dear Families: 
     The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) recognizes May as “Better Speech and Hearing Month.”   While we encourage good communication every day at Elysian, ASHA uses this annual “campaign” as an opportunity to raise awareness about communication,  speech, language, and hearing development, and the role of Speech-Language Specialists/Pathologists in schools and other settings.
    For this fourth and final installment in my four-week series, I am focusing on the many ways in which parents can support the development of language skills in young children and also a link to a piece entitled “Stop, Drop and Talk- The Importance of Talking to Your Child.”  There are so many moments during the day in which you can foster language development in natural and fun ways. Conversation with your child with you fully engaged is key!
 As always,  Please feel free to contact me if you have any concerns regarding the speech and language development of your child.
    ~Gail
Gail Prusslin, M.S., M.Ed., CCC
Elysian Speech-Language Specialist
 
Here are just a few ideas: 
Birth to 2 years:
  • Reinforce attempts by maintaining eye contact, responding with speech, and imitating vocalizations using different patterns and emphasis. For example, raise the pitch of your voice to indicate a question.
  • Imitate your baby's laughter and facial expressions.
  • Teach your baby to imitate your actions, including clapping you hands, throwing kisses, and playing finger games such as pat-a-cake, peek-a-boo, and the itsy-bitsy-spider.
  • Talk as you bathe, feed, and dress your baby. Talk about what you are doing, where you are going, what you will do when you arrive, and who and what you will see. 
2 to 4 years:
  • Use speech that is clear and simple for your child to model.
  • Repeat what your child says indicating that you understand. Build and expand on what was said. "Want juice? I have juice. I have apple juice. Do you want apple juice?"
  • Make a scrapbook of favorite or familiar things by cutting out pictures. Group them into categories, such as things to ride on, things to eat, things for dessert, fruits, things to play with. Help your child understand and ask questions. Play the yes-no game. Ask questions such as "Are you a boy?" "Are you Marty?" "Can a pig fly?" Encourage your child to make up questions and try to fool you.
  • Ask questions that require a choice. "Do you want an apple or an orange?" "Do you want to wear your red or blue shirt?" 
4 to 6 years:
  • When your child starts a conversation, give your full attention whenever possible.
  • Pause after speaking. This gives your child a chance to continue the conversation.
  • Continue to build vocabulary. Introduce a new word and offer its definition, or use it in a context that is easily understood. This may be done in an exaggerated, humorous manner. "I think I will drive the vehicle to the store. I am too tired to walk."
  • Talk about spatial relationships (first, middle, and last; right and left) and opposites (up and down; on and off).
  • Offer a description or clues, and have your child identify what you are describing: "We use it to sweep the floor" (a broom). "It is cold, sweet, and good for dessert. I like strawberry" (ice cream). 
From “Stop, Drop and Talk - The Importance of  Talking to Your Child”  
When it comes to fostering early language development, traditional methods such as reading a book and playing with traditional toys prove to be much more effective than “modern” methods. (i.e. technology).  Talk to your child and give them ample opportunities to talk to you. Be patient and model good communication by slowing down your speech and using gestures. Most importantly, put down your phone and listen to your child. Even if it may seem silly to respond back to their babbling, know that to a young child getting your attention is their most coveted reward.
Parent-child interactions are so important when it comes to fostering child language development. “The human interaction involved in play is special because children respond well to the timeliness of adult responses when they are talking to people (as opposed to watching videos for example),” says Dr. Bedore, Professor and Director of the Speech-Language Pathology program and the University of Texas at Austin.   “Engage in conversations as though your child is responding. Talk about what you’re doing and what your child is doing, wait during the conversational turn, and respond. Read books, talk about the pictures, sing songs, play games,” says Dr.Pruitt-Lord of San Diego State University. 
PTSO CORNER
SPRING FLING THANKS - Thank you to Eileen O'Brien and Michele McCue for putting together the Spring Fling!! It wouldn't have happened without them. And thank you also to all of the volunteers who chaperoned, set up and cleaned up the event:

Francois Vielot 
Mona Sarafa
Alex Williams
Liz Swift
Dave Swift
Jen Giattino
Nicola Hoelzl
Claudia Orlando 
Rachel Katell
Mitzi Joss
Malin Kallberg-Shroff
Jenn Nilsen

And former Elysian students:
Asha Duerdon
Teodora Kanlic

YEAR-END PICNIC - Save the date! This year’s picnic is set for Wednesday, June 7th – rain date Thursday, June 8th. More details to come!
Please Help Elysian Raise Funds By Joining the "Swing Fore The Schools Fundraising Golf Tournament
For the seventh year in a row, Elysian Charter School will be participating in the "Swing Fore The Schools Golf Outing". This is Hudson County's largest golf outing benefiting six local schools which serve over 1,400 students. Last year our school earned over $10,000 by identifying sponsors and registering enthusiastic golfers.  

This year's tournament will be held on Thursday, June 8th (beginning with lunch at 11AM) at the Crystal Springs Golf Resort in Northwest New Jersey. Tee off is 1PM. Bus transportation to and from Hoboken will be provided.

Please consider being one of the 300 golfers who will play 36 holes, participate in fun contests, win prizes and enjoy a delicious lunch and dinner while raising money for our schools!  We are hoping for at least 20 golfers from Elysian so we can do our part with this fundraising event.  


We also need sponsors and have several sponsorship packages available that provide for great visibility for companies interested in reaching families in Hudson County. Please contact Jeff Joss (jeff.joss@gmail.com) or Malin Kallberg-Shroff (malinkallberg@yahoo.com), chairpersons for the tournament, for more details.

Thank you for your support!
Upcoming Track Meets:
Saturday Races:  June 3   Participants should arrive by  9:30 / 9:45 AM 

Sunday Races:   June 4   Participants should arrive by  9:30 / 9:45 AM

The 1st race begins 10:00 AM.   Races should end no later than noon.  We do not Run in the rain.  

Blue Running Track, Lincoln Park, J. C./ Entrance - Duncan Ave. near Route 440. Parking is Available.

Clothing Drive Through the May 26!

All Saints Church and the Jubilee Center are collecting gently used children's clothes, to be given away at an event at the Jubilee Center in late May.  We are collecting clothes, shoes and coats in baby up to juniors/high school sizes.  There's a particular need for clothes size 5T through 15. Hola and Hoboken Charter are joining the clothing drive as well.  Look for the labeled box inside Elysian's front door. Thanks to everyone who has contributed.  Thanks, Elysian - keep your clothing donations coming!
ELYSIAN SUMMER CAMP 2017 - TIME IS RUNNING OUT...
  • Spots still available for each week
  • Registration open to ALL students both in & out of the Elysian community currently in kindergarten through 5th grade
  • Registration ends on Thursday, June 1st 
  • Daily activities include arts & crafts, cooking, sports, woodworking, science, outside vendor visits, Idlewild Pool Club, field trips and much more
  • Camp staff will be primarily Elysian teachers, coordinated and run by John Rutledge (5th grade teacher/rugby coach) and Pam Gorode (Business Office and Club Coordinator)
  • 2 one week sessions - the weeks of July 31st and August 7th - you can sign up for one or both weeks
  • Hours of fun, air conditioned classrooms, familiar counselors....and no one hour bus rides there and back!
  • Registration forms and more information about the camp at www.ecsnj.org/elysian-summer-camp/camp-registration-form/  
  • Questions can be directed to John and Pam at summercamp@ecsnj.org
HELP SPREAD THE WORD TO FRIENDS AND FAMILY TO JOIN US FOR WHAT PROMISES TO BE A HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CHILD'S SUMMER!!! 
16th Annual Mamapalooza Outdoor Festival, Riverside Park South
Sunday May 28th, 1:00 - 5:00
This year's theme:  "Sing Out Sister", with a mix of music concerts, dance performances, movies under the stars, DJ dance parties, kids shows, and other special events.
At 3:30, Pier I @ 70th Street, Lynne Shapiro reads with other Mom Egg Review Contributors.

Elysian Collects Box Tops and LABELS for Education: 
Look for the container near Deb's desk in the office!  Thank you! 
As per state law, we no longer publish the exact location of trips for security reasons.
Please read the calendar weekly, as changes are updated regularly.
    MAY CALENDAR
    Monday, May 22
    • High School Meeting for 7th Grade Parents--6:00 P.M.
    • Board of Trustees Meeting, 7:00 PM
    Wednesday, May 24
    • Elysian School Play (See above for schedule)
    Thursday, May 25
    • Orientation for in-coming Kindergarteners
    • Screening of Screenagers at Miles Square Theater, 7 PM, $10 per family, 4th grade and up.
    Friday, May 26
    • Half day of school, 12:30 dismissal.  After School Program available as usual.
    Monday, May 29
    • Elysian closed for memorial Day.
    Tuesday, May 30
    • 6th and 7th grade all day trip.
    • Exhibition, 3rd grade illuminated manuscripts, Morgan Library Book Project.  All are welcome!
    Wednesday, May 31
    • Grades 4 and 8 NJ ASK Science test
    Please make note of the following calendar changes:
    1.   The June 9th Community Meeting is changed to June 16th
    2.   On June 9th there will be the 3rd, 4th and 5th grade concert which will begin at 9:00 AM
    1460 Garden Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030
    Harry Laub, Ph.D., Director | harry.laub@ecsnj.org | Phone:201.876.0102 | Fax:201.876.9576
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