SAVE THE DATE:

• Tuesday, November 7, 2017 - Election Day/Bonds referendum vote (early voting started Oct. 19)
• Friday, November 10, 2017 - Holiday - No School (Veterans Day) - no Spirit Day this month due to the holiday
• Tuesday, November 14, 2017 - Spirit Night (more details to come)
• Wednesday, November 15, 2017 at 6:30 p.m. - Open House at Williams Secondary Montessori
• Thursday, November 16, 2017 - SLT (School Leadership Team) meeting in the library/media center at 8 a.m. and the Annual Thanksgiving Holiday Meal (RSVP by returning the flyer in the Thursday folders by Monday, November 13th)
• Friday, November 17, 2017 - Doughnuts for Dads (more details to come)

IMPACT BLITZ UPDATE!
We still have one week left for the Impact Drive and we are right at 43% of our total goal!  We will send several updates this week to keep you informed of our progress.  Help our school reach our goal of $10,000.00  Please give today!!!
 



Donate at: https://impacthmm-giving-campaign-2017-2018.cheddarup.com or scan the code below:
Email us at:  highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com
 
MONTESSORI MORNINGS & AFTERNOONS PROGRAMS
SESSION 2
FRENCH, MANDARIN, SPANISH, KIDS ZUMBA & CHESS
 
Session 2 runs from the week of Monday, November 13th through the week of Friday, January 19th
LAST DAY to REGISTER is Thursday, November 9th
DEADLINE EXTENDED!!!

Morning (Monday) class - Spanish
Morning (Wednesday) class - Chess Club
Morning (Thursday) class - French
Afternoon (Monday) class - Kids Zumba
Afternoon (Friday) class - Mandarin
 
Class will NOT be held (due to school holidays & teacher workdays) on:

• Wednesday - Friday, November 22nd - 24th
• December 20th - January 2nd
• Monday, January 15th

There will be no afternoon classes on Wednesday, December 6th due to an Early Release Day.
Visit the link below for more information (pricing, days, etc.) & sign up before all the spaces are filled!
REGISTER TODAY!
https://montessori-mornings-afternoons-session2.cheddarup.com


 
IMPORTANT CMS BONDS ISSUE UP FOR VOTE!
 
November 7 is election day!  There is an important CMS Bonds issue up for vote in this election.  Please visit the CMS website for information regarding the bonds.
http://www.cms.k12.nc.us/cmsbondinfo/Pages/default.aspx
 
ATTEND THE SCHOOL LEADERSHIP TEAM (SLT) MEETING! 
 
The next meeting is Thursday, November 16, 2017 at 8 a.m. in the library/media center.  
The school leadership team is comprised of school administration, teachers and parents from HMM.  It's primary function is to facilitate in the development of the school improvement plan, monitor and assess the implementation of that plan, and make amendments as necessary.  The team will help to advance policies and procedures that will enhance achievement and meet educational, safety, and parent involvement goals. Lastly, the group will support decision making efforts by the school and assist in the communication thereof.  If you are not sure if your child's classroom has a volunteer, please check with your child's teacher. The school offers childcare in the computer lab during the meeting so that parents may attend.

ALL PARENTS ARE WELCOME AND ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND! If you have questions, concerns, suggestions that you would like to address with the HMM staff and administration, these meetings are your opportunity to do that.  If you would like to add an item to the agenda for discussion for one of the meetings, please contact Beth Leo at beth.leo@cms.k12.nc.us.  Each classroom also has a room parent as well if you would like to contact them regarding issues about the classroom.
 
SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS!
Calling all photographers!  We are in the process of updating our website and ask for your patience while the site is under construction. We plan to update the photos on the website and need your help.  If you have photos of events at HMM that you would be willing to share, please submit them to us by email at highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com.  Please only submit photos that you are willing for us to share on our website and understand there is no guarantee we would use any specific photo.  Please submit photos in either jpg or png format with a minimum resolution of 72 ppi and a maximum size of 50 kb.

 
BUY SPIRIT MERCHANDISE! 
Show your school spirit by sporting your Highland Mill Montessori tees, sweatshirts & car magnets! Students are encouraged to wear HMM shirts on the 2nd Friday of each month to show their school spirit. Stock up today! 
                                     
Purchase at: https://highland-mill-montessori-spirit-merchandise-2017-2018.cheddarup.com or scan the code below:
 
                       
                   
DONATE TO THE HMM 20TH ANNIVERSARY ORCHARD & BUTTERFLY HIGHWAY! 
 
Thank you to everyone who donated to the 20th Anniversary Celebration Time Capsule. Now we are in phase 2, which is making the dream of a nature trail, orchard, and butterfly highway a reality.  Please DONATE to the school's nature trail, orchard, and butterfly highway at https://www.gofundme.com/hmm-20th-anniversary-orchard.
 
PAINT THE SPIRIT ROCK(S)!
 
Is it your child's birthday?  Have any other reason to celebrate?  Paint the spirit rock(s)!  It is only $5 to paint one of the rocks and $10 to paint both. Please check the PTA spirit rock calendar to verify the dates you wish to paint the rock are available before you pay.  Pay and check the calendar at:  https://highland-mill-spirit-rock-2017-2018.cheddarup.com/ or scan the code below and GET CREATIVE:
        
CHECK OUT WILLIAMS SECONDARY MONTESSORI!
 
Did you know?  Your sixth grader has an automatic feed to Williams Montessori for middle and high school.  No need to enter the lottery!

Want to see what happens during a typical school day?  Sign up for a Wednesday Walk-through  Students will guide you through an introductory Community Meeting as well as take you on a tour of our amazing new campus including several classrooms in action. The visit will end with a Q&A session where students, current parents, and staff members will be available to answer any questions you may have about our amazing school.Open House - Learn more about Secondary Montessori at Open House on November 15 at 6:30 pm at Williams Montessori (2400 Carmine St., Charlotte, NC 28206).
JOIN TODAY!
It is not too late if you haven't joined yet. We need your membership and support now more than ever! The cost of an annual membership is $5 (per parent) giving you the opportunity to vote and make your voice heard on important school issues. Only PTA members are able to vote, so make sure you join this year. If you would like to pay by cash or check, please put it in an envelope and drop it in the lockbox on the wall outside of the PTA room.  Please list the name of each person joining, each email address and each phone number on the envelope.  If you would like to join please click the link below:
https://my.cheddarup.com/c/highland-mill-montessori-pta-membership-dues-2017
or scan the QR code below:


 
VOLUNTEER! 
 
We are always in need of volunteers and it is never too late to volunteer to help in anyway! Volunteers needed on Thursday mornings! We need assistance stuffing Thursday folders beginning at 9:15 a.m. so our families can stay informed on all things HMM! If you can help throughout the year (does not need to be a weekly commitment), please e-mail at: highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com.  It generally takes less than 90 minutes a week.

** If you would like to use the QR codes provided in this e-mail, there are apps that can be downloaded to your phone which will allow you to use a QR code reader.
SUPPORT HIGHLAND MILL MONTESSORI SCHOOL!

• https://smile.amazon.com/ - Choose Highland Mill Montessori PTA.  Amazon will remind you when you shop to check in through Amazon Smile.
• https://www.harristeeter.com/together-in-education#/app/cms - Link your VIC card and don't forget to re-link if you have done it before. Choose Highland Mill Montessori School PTA. You can link up to 5 schools.  Our school number is 1929.  Knowing the school number can make it easier to link your card.
• https://www.labelsforeducation.com/My-School/Find-Your-School - This program ends January 2, 2018 but there is still time to send in your labels. Because this program ends on January 2, 2018 we need all labels submitted before Winter Break - thank you!!!
• http://www.boxtops4education.com/  You can send the box tops and labels in when you return the Thursday folder each week.

 
KEEP UP WITH THE LATEST!

• PTA website: http://highlandmillmontessoripta.weebly.com/ - Click the link to see our new look!
• Check out the helpful PTA calendar HERE. If you have a gmail account you can add the HMM PTA calendar to show our events in your personal calendar.  Our calendar is a combination of the HMM calendar, CMS calendar, ASEP calendar and our events all in one place!
• Follow us on Facebook - Highland Mill Montessori PTA: https://www.facebook.com/highlandmillmontessori
• We are now back on Twitter (@HMMPTA) - please follow us at https://twitter.com/hmmpta
• Join our Remind101 Mailing List: Text 424.789.8749 with the message @hmmpta
• Please contact us with any questions or concerns at highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com

SAVE THE DATE:

• Monday, October 23, 2017 - Team Up Against Drugs - wear your favorite team jersey!
• Tuesday, October 24, 2017 - Family Reading Night from 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. in the library/media center and National Family Drug Free Pledge Day 
• Wednesday, October 25, 2017 - 1st Spirit Night from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. at Hawthorne's New York Pizza and Bar on 7th Street and Hawthorne's Pizza in Highland Creek (2 locations!) and "Sock it to Drugs" Day - wear Red Socks to school.
• Friday, October 27, 2017 - Dress Down Day (Students do not have to wear uniforms to school) and RED Shirt Day for Red Ribbon Week
• Monday, October 30, 2017 - Teacher Workday(school closed for students)/ASEP open and Kids' Camp at Williams Secondary Montessori
• Friday, November 3, 2017 from 9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m. - Open House for Prospective Families
• Saturday, November 4, 2017 from 11 a.m. - 3 pm.  -  Fall Festival and Silent Auction 

 
 
Donate at: https://impacthmm-giving-campaign-2017-2018.cheddarup.com or scan the code below:

Email us at: highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com
 
 
LET'S READ!
 
HAVE DINNER!
Our 1st Spirit Night is on Wednesday, October 25, 2017 from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. at Hawthorne's New York and Pizza Bar on 7th Street and Hawthorne's Pizza in Highland Creek (2 locations!).  No time to cook?   Would you like to spend some time with other HMM families?  Would you like to raise money for the school?  Come eat with us! The school will receive 15% of all sales made from our families. Be sure to tell them you are with HMM!
 
HAVE FUN AT FALL FESTIVAL!
 
Fall Festival is near!! Fall Festival and the Silent Auction will be held on Saturday, November 4, 2017 from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. at HMMS (rain or shine). Please donate to our Silent Auction at Fall Festival! Own a business? Are you an artist? Craftmaker? Have season tickets to sports or performing arts? All ideas welcome! If you're interested in making a donation of goods or services to support programming for our students and teachers, please email highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com to donate TODAY!
 
SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS!
Calling all photographers!  We are in the process of updating our website and ask for your patience while the site is under construction. We plan to update the photos on the website and need your help.  If you have photos of events at HMM that you would be willing to share, please submit them to us by email at highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com.  Please only submit photos that you are willing for us to share on our website and understand there is no guarantee we would use any specific photo.  
 
BUY SPIRIT MERCHANDISE! 
Show your school spirit by sporting your Highland Mill Montessori tees, sweatshirts & car magnets! Students are encouraged to wear HMM shirts on the 2nd Friday of each month to show their school spirit. Stock up today! 
                                      
Purchase at: https://highland-mill-montessori-spirit-merchandise-2017-2018.cheddarup.com or scan the code below:
 
               
                   
DONATE TO THE HMM 20TH ANNIVERSARY ORCHARD & BUTTERFLY HIGHWAY! 
Thank you to everyone who donated to the 20th Anniversary Celebration Time Capsule. Now we are in phase 2, which is making the dream of a nature trail, orchard, and butterfly highway a reality.  Please DONATE to the school's nature trail, orchard, and butterfly highway at https://www.gofundme.com/hmm-20th-anniversary-orchard.
 
PAINT THE SPIRIT ROCK(S)!
Is it your child's birthday?  Have any other reason to celebrate?  Paint the spirit rock(s)!  It is only $5 to paint one of the rocks and $10 to paint both. Please check the PTA spirit rock calendar to verify the dates you wish to paint the rock are available before you pay.  Pay and check the calendar at:  https://highland-mill-spirit-rock-2017-2018.cheddarup.com/ or scan the code below and GET CREATIVE:

CHECK OUT WILLIAMS SECONDARY MONTESSORI!
Did you know?  Your sixth grader has an automatic feed to Williams Montessori for middle and high school.  No need to enter the lottery!

Want to see what happens during a typical school day?  Sign up for a Wednesday Walk-through  Students will guide you through an introductory Community Meeting as well as take you on a tour of our amazing new campus including several classrooms in action. The visit will end with a Q&A session where students, current parents, and staff members will be available to answer any questions you may have about our amazing school.Have you decided how your children will spend the next teacher work day?  Mark your calendars for Kid's Camp at Williams Montessori, located at 2400 Carmine Street, on October 30th, from 8:45-4:30.  Cost is $45. This event is for all CMS Montessori Upper Elementary students.  Not only is it a great introduction to some of the components of Secondary Montessori on our new campus, it is also a great way to meet new and old friends from the Montessori community.  In addition, you will be supporting the Secondary Montessori students as they work as camp counselors to earn funding for their school community.  
Register and pay here*: 
https://kids-camp-fall-2017-jt-williams.cheddarup.com.  Deadline to sign up is October 23rd. If you have any questions please contact Kid's Camp organizers: Dara Whittle at darawhittle@live.com or Shea Chambers at sheawchambers@gmail.com.
JOIN TODAY!
It is not too late if you haven't joined yet. We need your membership and support now more than ever! The cost of an annual membership is $5 (per parent) giving you the opportunity to vote and make your voice heard on important school issues. Only PTA members are able to vote, so make sure you join this year.  If you would like to pay by cash or check, please put it in an envelope and drop it in the lockbox on the wall outside of the PTA room.  Please list the name of each person joining, their email address and phone number on the envelope. If you would like to pay online please click the link below:
https://my.cheddarup.com/c/highland-mill-montessori-pta-membership-dues-2017
or scan the QR code below:

VOLUNTEER! 
We are always in need of volunteers and it is never too late to volunteer to help in anyway! Volunteers needed on Thursday mornings! We need assistance stuffing Thursdayfolders beginning at 9:15 a.m. so our families can stay informed on all things HMM! If you can help throughout the year (does not need to be a weekly commitment), please email highlandmillmontessoriPTA@gmail.com. It generally takes less than 90 minutes each week. 

IMPORTANT CMS BONDS ISSUE UP FOR VOTE!
November 7 is election day!  There is an important CMS Bonds issue up for vote in this election.  Please visit the CMS website for information regarding the bonds.
http://www.cms.k12.nc.us/cmsbondinfo/Pages/default.aspx
** If you would like to use the QR codes provided in this e-mail, there are apps that can be downloaded to your phone which will allow you to use a QR code reader.
SUPPORT HIGHLAND MILL MONTESSORI SCHOOL!

• https://smile.amazon.com/ - Choose Highland Mill Montessori PTA.  Amazon will remind you when you shop to check in through Amazon Smile.
• https://www.harristeeter.com/together-in-education#/app/cms - Link your VIC card and don't forget to re-link if you have done it before. Choose Highland Mill Montessori School PTA. You can link up to 5 schools.

BONUS ITEMS:Earn $3.00 per item purchased! When you purchase a 12 inch Message Cookie or 12 count Cupcakes between October 1 - October 31. 
Your VIC card must be linked to a Together in Education code for your school to earn.  Check your Harris Teeter receipt to see if you are linked. 
A school must have a minimum of $18.00 to receive a check. Checks will be cut separately for the school from the payout period.
Shop ExpressLane to help your school earn more.Link your VIC card to a Together in Education school between Wednesday, September 6 and Tuesday, October 31.  Spend $100 shopping with the Harris Teeter Express Lane in a single visit each week for five weeks out of the eight week time period and your linked school will earn $50. 
If you are linked to more than one school, the $50 will be split among the schools to which you are linked.  One VIC card can be linked up to 5 schools.   
Note, a school must earn at least $25 to receive a check. 

• https://www.labelsforeducation.com/My-School/Find-Your-School - This program ends January 2, 2018 but there is still time to send in your labels.
• http://www.boxtops4education.com/  You can send the box tops and labels in when you return the Thursday folder each week.  SWEEPSTAKES:  Enter to win 1 million eBox Tops for your school - https://www.1millionboxtops.com/ and Monsters Cereal Madness Sweepstakes (ends Oct. 31) https://www.boxtops4education.com/earn/sweepstakes .

KEEP UP WITH THE LATEST!

• PTA website: http://highlandmillmontessoripta.weebly.com/  - UPDATES COMING SOON!
• Check out the helpful PTA calendar HERE. If you have a gmail account you can add the HMM PTA calendar to show our events in your personal calendar.  Our calendar is a combination of the HMM calendar, CMS calendar, ASEP calendar and our events all in one place!
• Follow us on Facebook - Highland Mill Montessori PTA: https://www.facebook.com/highlandmillmontessori
• We are now back on Twitter (@HMMPTA) - please follow us at https://twitter.com/hmmpta
• Join our Remind101 Mailing List: Text 424.789.8749 with the message @hmmpta
• Please contact us with any questions or concerns at highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com

SAVE THE DATE:

• Wednesday, October 18, 2017 - Early Release Day (dismissal at 1 p.m./ASEP operates 3 hours early in the afternoon)  Children who do not attend ASEP must be picked up by 1:30 p.m.
• Thursday, October 19, 2017 at 8 a.m. - School Leadership Team (SLT) meeting in the library/media center
• Friday, October 20, 2017 from 9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m. - Open House for Prospective HMM Families (check-in at the front office)
• Saturday, October 21, 2017 at 6:30 p.m. - UNCC Football Game
• Tuesday, October 24, 2017 from 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. in the library/media center - Family Reading Night
• Wednesday, October 25, 2017 from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. at Hawthorne's New York Pizza and Bar on 7th Street - 1st Spirit Night 
• Friday, October 27, 2017 - Dress Down Day (Students do not have to wear uniforms to school)

ATTEND THE SCHOOL LEADERSHIP TEAM (SLT) MEETING! 
The next meeting is Thursday, October 19, 2017 at 8 a.m. in the library/media center.  The agenda items for discussion include:- review School Improvement Plan as needed
- overview of district and state mandated assessments to include Reading 3D, MAP, and EOGs. Kindergarten parents, this will be a wonderful opportunity to learn about which tests we use to measure student knowledge and how we use this data in instruction. 
The school leadership team is comprised of school administration, teachers and parents from HMM.  It's primary function is to facilitate in the development of the school improvement plan, monitor and assess the implementation of that plan, and make amendments as necessary.  The team will help to advance policies and procedures that will enhance achievement and meet educational, safety, and parent involvement goals. Lastly, the group will support decision making efforts by the school and assist in the communication thereof.  If you are not sure if your child's classroom has a volunteer, please check with your child's teacher. The school offers childcare in the computer lab during the meeting so that parents may attend.

ALL PARENTS ARE WELCOME AND ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND! If you have questions, concerns, or suggestions that you would like to address with the HMM staff and administration, these meetings are your opportunity to do that.  If you would like to add an item to the agenda for discussion for one of the meetings, please contact Beth Leo atbeth.leo@cms.k12.nc.us.  Each classroom also has a room parent as well if you would like to contact them regarding issues about the classroom.

LET'S READ!


HAVE DINNER!
Our 1st Spirit Night is on Wednesday, October 25, 2017 from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.at Hawthorne's New York Pizza and Bar on 7th Street.  No time to cook?   Would you like to spend some time with other HMM families?  Would you like to raise money for the school?  Come eat with us! The school will receive 15% of all sales made from our families. Be sure to tell them you are with HMM!

DONATE TO THE SILENT AUCTION!
Fall Festival is near!! Fall Festival and the Silent Auction will be held on Saturday, November 4, 2017 from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. at HMMS (rain or shine). Please donate to our Silent Auction at Fall Festival! Own a business? Are you an artist? Craftmaker? Have season tickets to sports or performing arts? All ideas welcome! If you're interested in making a donation of goods or services to support programming for our students and teachers, please email highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com to donate TODAY!

SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS!
Calling all photographers!  We are in the process of updating our website and ask for your patience while the site is under construction. We plan to update the photos on the website and need your help.  If you have photos of events at HMM that you would be willing to share, please submit them to us by email at highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com.  Please only submit photos that you are willing for us to share on our website and understand there is no guarantee we would use any specific photo.  Please submit photos in either jpg or png format with a minimum resolution of 72 ppi and a maximum size of 50 kb.

GIVE TODAY AND #impactHMM!  
NO SELLING! Yes, you read that correctly! We are conducting a direct giving campaign instead of fundraising. We ask parents to donate funds rather than sell items. Please share this link with your family, friends, neighbors, etc. and ask them to have an IMPACT on HMM. (All Contributions Are Tax Deductible).  Help us reach our goal of $10,000!!! Have you ever asked yourself where the money goes?
Here are just a few examples:

• Popsicles at Open House
• Spring Spectacular
• Fall Festival
• Donuts with Dad
• Muffins with Mom
• Grandparents Day
• 6th grade graduation
• Classroom supplement
• Library supplement
• Training for faculty members
• Specials supplement - supplies for art, music, computer and gym teachers

As you can see we do a lot to support our school but we cannot do it alone. If every family gives $25 per child (enrolled at HMM) we could raise over $7,500! Some may not be able to give $25, while others may be able to give $100 (or more).  Every dollar is important, and goes directly to benefit our kids!  Don't forget to see if your company has a corporate matching program.  Donate at: https://impacthmm-giving-campaign-2017-2018.cheddarup.com or scan the code below:


BUY SPIRIT MERCHANDISE! 
Show your school spirit by sporting your Highland Mill Montessori tees, sweatshirts & car magnets! Students are encouraged to wear HMM shirts on the 2nd Friday of each month to show their school spirit. Stock up today! 
                                     
Purchase at: https://highland-mill-montessori-spirit-merchandise-2017-2018.cheddarup.com or scan the code below:
 
               
                   
DONATE TO THE HMM 20TH ANNIVERSARY ORCHARD & BUTTERFLY HIGHWAY! 
Thank you to everyone who donated to the 20th Anniversary Celebration Time Capsule. Now we are in phase 2, which is making the dream of a nature trail, orchard, and butterfly highway a reality.  Please DONATE to the school's nature trail, orchard, and butterfly highway at https://www.gofundme.com/hmm-20th-anniversary-orchard.
 
PAINT THE SPIRIT ROCK(S)!
Is it your child's birthday?  Have any other reason to celebrate?  Paint the spirit rock(s)!  It is only $5 to paint one of the rocks and $10 to paint both. Please check the PTA spirit rock calendar to verify the dates you wish to paint the rock are available before you pay.  Pay and check the calendar at:  https://highland-mill-spirit-rock-2017-2018.cheddarup.com/ or scan the code below and GET CREATIVE:

CHECK OUT WILLIAMS SECONDARY MONTESSORI!
Did you know?  Your sixth grader has an automatic feed to Williams Montessori for middle and high school.  No need to enter the lottery!

Want to see what happens during a typical school day?  Sign up for a Wednesday Walk-through  Students will guide you through an introductory Community Meeting as well as take you on a tour of our amazing new campus including several classrooms in action. The visit will end with a Q&A session where students, current parents, and staff members will be available to answer any questions you may have about our amazing school.Have you decided how your children will spend the next teacher work day?  Mark your calendars for Kid's Camp at Williams Montessori, located at 2400 Carmine Street, on October 30th, from 8:45-4:30.  Cost is $45. This event is for all CMS Montessori Upper Elementary students.  Not only is it a great introduction to some of the components of Secondary Montessori on our new campus, it is also a great way to meet new and old friends from the Montessori community.  In addition, you will be supporting the Secondary Montessori students as they work as camp counselors to earn funding for their school community.  
Register and pay here*: 
https://kids-camp-fall-2017-jt-williams.cheddarup.com.  Deadline to sign up is October 23rd. If you have any questions please contact Kid's Camp organizers: Dara Whittle at darawhittle@live.com or Shea Chambers at sheawchambers@gmail.com.
JOIN TODAY!
It is not too late if you haven't joined yet. We need your membership and support now more than ever! The cost of an annual membership is $5 (per parent) giving you the opportunity to vote and make your voice heard on important school issues. Only PTA members are able to vote, so make sure you join this year.  If you would like to join please click the link below:
https://my.cheddarup.com/c/highland-mill-montessori-pta-membership-dues-2017
or scan the QR code below:

VOLUNTEER! 
We are always in need of volunteers and it is never too late to volunteer to help in anyway!  We have so many exciting events planned and we could use your help! If interested in volunteering please contact us at:  highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com.  

** If you would like to use the QR codes provided in this e-mail, there are apps that can be downloaded to your phone which will allow you to use a QR code reader.
SUPPORT HIGHLAND MILL MONTESSORI SCHOOL!

• https://smile.amazon.com/ - Choose Highland Mill Montessori PTA.  Amazon will remind you when you shop to check in through Amazon Smile.
• https://www.harristeeter.com/together-in-education#/app/cms - Link your VIC card and don't forget to re-link if you have done it before. Choose Highland Mill Montessori School PTA. You can link up to 5 schools.
• https://www.labelsforeducation.com/My-School/Find-Your-School - This program ends January 2, 2018 but there is still time to send in your labels.
• http://www.boxtops4education.com/  You can send the box tops and labels in when you return the Thursday folder each week.  

KEEP UP WITH THE LATEST!

• PTA website: http://highlandmillmontessoripta.weebly.com/  - UPDATES COMING SOON!
• Check out the helpful PTA calendar HERE. If you have a gmail account you can add the HMM PTA calendar to show our events in your personal calendar.  Our calendar is a combination of the HMM calendar, CMS calendar, ASEP calendar and our events all in one place!
• Follow us on Facebook - Highland Mill Montessori PTA: https://www.facebook.com/highlandmillmontessori
• We are now back on Twitter (@HMMPTA) - please follow us at https://twitter.com/hmmpta
• Join our Remind101 Mailing List: Text 424.789.8749 with the message @hmmpta
• Please contact us with any questions or concerns at highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com

SAVE THE DATE:

• Beginning Monday, October 9, 2017 - parents can now visit the school and have lunch with students
• Tuesday, October 10, 2017 at 10 a.m. - Williams Secondary Montessori Ribbon Cutting and the deadline to order UNCC football game tickets - there will be a box in the mailroom for orders/checks
• Thursday, October 12, 2017 from 8:15 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. -  Grandparents' Breakfast in the HMM gym and Open House at 6:30 p.m.at the Williams Secondary Montessori Campus.
• Friday, October 13, 2017  -  New Parent Coffee Chat from 9:15 a.m. -  9:45 a.m. in the library/media center and Spirit Day (students may wear their Spirit shirts to school) 
• Wednesday, October 18, 2017 - Early Release Day (dismissal at 1 p.m./ASEP operates 3 hours early in the afternoon)
• Thursday, October 19, 2017 at 8 a.m. - School Leadership Team (SLT) Meeting in the library/media center
• Saturday, October 21, 2017 at 6:30 p.m. - UNCC Football Game

JOIN TODAY!
It is not too late if you haven't joined yet. 
There is a friendly competition amongst all of the PTAs within CMS. The school with the highest percentage increase of PTA membership will win a full day of onsite service and support from Dr. Wilcox, CMS Superintendent, and his staff at their school!! The competition ends on October 15th and the winner will be announced on October 31st. If you plan to join the PTA and you have not had a chance to do so, please join now!!! You can join online by clicking the link or scanning the QR code within this e-bulletin. If you would like to pay by cash or check, please send an email to highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com and we will be sure to connect with you. Let’s show CMS that we can do it!!!”
https://my.cheddarup.com/c/highland-mill-montessori-pta-membership-dues-2017
or scan the QR code below:


SPEND A SPECIAL MORNING WITH YOUR GRANDCHILD!
Grandparents' Breakfast is on Thursday, October 12 from 8:15 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.inthe HMM gym.  Enjoy assorted breakfast snacks, coffee, and juice while spending time with your grandchild.

VOLUNTEER! 
We are always in need of volunteers and it is never too late to volunteer to help in anyway!  We currently have a specific need for volunteers to help with the Grandparents' Breakfast on October 12.  If interested in volunteering, please contact us at: highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com.  

DONATE TO THE SILENT AUCTION!
Fall Festival is near!! Fall Festival and the Silent Auction will be held onSaturday, November 4, 2017 from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. at HMMS (rain or shine). Please donate to our Silent Auction at Fall Festival! Own a business? Are you an artist? Craftmaker? Have season tickets to sports or performing arts? All ideas welcome! If you're interested in making a donation of goods or services to support programming for our students and teachers, please email highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com to donate TODAY!

CELEBRATE, LEARN, HAVE FUN AT WILLIAMS SECONDARY MONTESSORI!
Please come on October 10th at 10am to the Williams Montessori Ribbon Cutting Ceremony.  Superintendent Clayton Wilcox and CMS School Board Member Ruby Jones will be in attendance to help celebrate the opening of our new campus and the first public Montessori high school in NC.  Refreshments provided. Be there 10/10 at 10!***
Want to see what happens during a typical school day?  Sign up for a Wednesday Walk-through  Students will guide you through an introductory Community Meeting as well as take you on a tour of our amazing new campus including several classrooms in action. The visit will end with a Q&A session where students, current parents, and staff members will be available to answer any questions you may have about our amazing school.

***
Learn more about Secondary Montessori at a Prospective Family Open House.  Our first Open House will be October 12 at 6:30 pm at the Williams Montessori campus.
***
Have you decided how your children will spend the next teacher work day?  Mark your calendars for Kid's Camp at Williams Montessori, located at 2400 Carmine Street, on October 30th, from 8:45-4:30.  Cost is $45. This event is for all CMS Montessori Upper Elementary students.  Not only is it a great introduction to some of the components of Secondary Montessori on our new campus, it is also a great way to meet new and old friends from the Montessori community.  In addition, you will be supporting the Secondary Montessori students as they work as camp counselors to earn funding for their school community.  
Register and pay here*: 
https://kids-camp-fall-2017-jt-williams.cheddarup.com.  Deadline to sign up is October 23rd. If you have any questions please contact Kid's Camp organizers: Dara Whittle at darawhittle@live.com or Shea Chambers at sheawchambers@gmail.com.
SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS!
Calling all photographers!  We are in the process of updating our website and ask for your patience while the site is under construction. We plan to update the photos on the website and need your help.  If you have photos of events at HMM that you would be willing to share, please submit them to us by email at highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com.  Please only submit photos that you are willing for us to share on our website and understand there is no guarantee we would use any specific photo.  Please submit photos in either jpg or png format with a minimum resolution of 72 ppi and a maximum size of 50 kb.

GIVE TODAY AND #impactHMM!  
NO SELLING! Yes, you read that correctly! We are conducting a direct giving campaign instead of fundraising. We ask parents to donate funds rather than sell items. Please share this link with your family, friends, neighbors, etc. and ask them to have an IMPACT on HMM. (All Contributions Are Tax Deductible). Help us reach our goal of $10,000!!! Have you ever asked yourself where the money goes?
Here are just a few examples:

• Popsicles at Open House
• Spring Spectacular
• Fall Festival
• Donuts with Dad
• Muffins with Mom
• Grandparents Day
• 6th grade graduation
• Classroom supplement
• Library supplement
• Training for faculty members
• Specials supplement - supplies for art, music, computer and gym teachers

As you can see we do a lot to support our school but we cannot do it alone. If every family gives $25 per child (enrolled at HMM) we could raise over $7,500! Some may not be able to give $25, while others may be able to give $100 (or more).  Every dollar is important, and goes directly to benefit our kids!  Don't forget to see if your company has a corporate matching program.  Donate at: https://impacthmm-giving-campaign-2017-2018.cheddarup.com or scan the code below:


BUY SPIRIT MERCHANDISE! 
Show your school spirit by sporting your Highland Mill Montessori tees, sweatshirts & car magnets! Students are encouraged to wear HMM shirts on the 2nd Friday of each month to show their school spirit.  Stock up today! 
                                     
Purchase at: https://highland-mill-montessori-spirit-merchandise-2017-2018.cheddarup.com or scan the code below:
 
               
                   
ATTEND THE SCHOOL LEADERSHIP TEAM (SLT) MEETING! 
The school leadership team is comprised of school administration, teachers and parents from HMM.  It's primary function is to facilitate in the development of the school improvement plan, monitor and assess the implementation of that plan, and make amendments as necessary.  The team will help to advance policies and procedures that will enhance achievement and meet educational, safety, and parent involvement goals. Lastly, the group will support decision making efforts by the school and assist in the communication thereof.  If you are not sure if your child's classroom has a volunteer, please check with your child's teacher. Upcoming meeting schedule:
October 19, 2017
November 16, 2017
December 14, 2017
January 18, 2018
February 15, 2018
March 15, 2018
April 19, 2018
May 17, 2018
All meetings are on a Thursday at 8 a.m. in the library/media center.  The school offers childcare in the computer lab during the meeting so that parents may attend.
ALL PARENTS ARE WELCOME AND ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND! If you have questions, concerns, suggestions that you would like to address with the HMM staff and administration, these meetings are your opportunity to do that.  If you would like to add an item to the agenda for discussion for one of the meetings, please contact Beth Leo atbeth.leo@cms.k12.nc.us.  Each classroom has a room parent as well if you would like to contact them regarding issues about the classroom.

DONATE TO THE HMM 20TH ANNIVERSARY ORCHARD & BUTTERFLY HIGHWAY! 
Thank you to everyone who donated to the 20th Anniversary Celebration Time Capsule. Now we are in phase 2, which is making the dream of a nature trail, orchard, and butterfly highway a reality.  Please DONATE to the school's nature trail, orchard, and butterfly highway at https://www.gofundme.com/hmm-20th-anniversary-orchard.
 
PAINT THE SPIRIT ROCK(S)!
Is it your child's birthday?  Have any other reason to celebrate?  Paint the spirit rock(s)!  It is only $5 to paint one of the rocks and $10 to paint both. Please check the PTA spirit rock calendar to verify the dates you wish to paint the rock are available before you pay.  Pay and check the calendar at:  https://highland-mill-spirit-rock-2017-2018.cheddarup.com/ or scan the code below and GET CREATIVE:


** If you would like to use the QR codes provided in this e-mail, there are apps that can be downloaded to your phone which will allow you to use a QR code reader.
SUPPORT HIGHLAND MILL MONTESSORI SCHOOL!

• https://smile.amazon.com/ - Choose Highland Mill Montessori PTA.  Amazon will remind you when you shop to check in through Amazon Smile.
• https://www.harristeeter.com/together-in-education#/app/cms - Link your VIC card and don't forget to re-link if you have done it before. Choose Highland Mill Montessori School PTA. You can link up to 5 schools.
• https://www.labelsforeducation.com/My-School/Find-Your-School - This program ends January 2, 2018 but there is still time to send in your labels.
• http://www.boxtops4education.com/  You can send the box tops and labels in when you return the Thursday folder each week.  

KEEP UP WITH THE LATEST!

• Click HERE for the PTA website: http://highlandmillmontessoripta.weebly.com/  - UPDATES COMING SOON!
• Check out the helpful PTA calendar HERE. If you have a gmail account you can add the HMM PTA calendar to show our events in your personal calendar.  Our calendar is a combination of the HMM calendar, CMS calendar, ASEP calendar and our events all in one place!
• Follow us on Facebook - Highland Mill Montessori PTA: https://www.facebook.com/highlandmillmontessori
• We are now back on Twitter (@HMMPTA) - please follow us at https://twitter.com/hmmpta
• Join our Remind101 Mailing List: Text 424.789.8749 with the message @hmmpta
• Please contact us with any questions or concerns at highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com

SAVE THE DATE:

• Tuesday, Oct. 10 at 10 a.m. - Williams Montessori Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
• Thursday, Oct. 12 from 8:15 a.m. - 9 a.m. in the gym - Grandparents' Breakfast 
• Friday, Oct. 13 - Spirit Day (students wear their Spirit shirts to school) and New Parent Coffee Chat

COME CHECK OUT WILLIAMS SECONDARY MONTESSORI!
Mark your calendars for October 10th at 10am - the Williams Montessori Ribbon Cutting Ceremony.  This event will celebrate the opening of our new campus and the first public Montessori high school in NC.  Be there 10/10 at 10!Want to see what happens during a typical school day?  Sign up for a Wednesday Walk-through  Students will guide you through an introductory Community Meeting as well as take you on a tour of our amazing new campus including several classrooms in action. The visit will end with a Q&A session where students, current parents, and staff members will be available to answer any questions you may have about our amazing school.
Join us for Kid's Camp where Montessori upper elementary students are the campers and the Montessori secondary students are the counselors. In this  micro-economy fundraiser the secondary students earn money for their community and the upper el students get a taste of life in the world of secondary Montessori. This will take place on the Oct 30th teacher workday.  Sign up coming soon!
Coming soon - learn more about Secondary Montessori at our Prospective Family Open House.

SPEND A SPECIAL MORNING WITH YOUR GRANDCHILD!
Grandparents' Breakfast is on Thursday, October 12 from 8:15 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. in the HMM gym.  Enjoy assorted breakfast snacks, coffee, and juice while spending time with your grandchild.
VOLUNTEER! 
We are always in need of volunteers and it is never too late to volunteer to help in anyway!  We currently have a specific need for volunteers to help with the Grandparents' Breakfast on October 12.  If interested in volunteering, please contact us at: highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com.  

DONATE TO THE SILENT AUCTION!
Please donate to our Silent Auction at Fall Festival scheduled for Nov 4th! Own a business? Are you an artist? Craftmaker? Have season tickets to sports or performing arts? All ideas welcome! If you're interested in making a donation of goods or services to support programming for our students and teachers, please email highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com to donate TODAY!

SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS!
Calling all photographers!  We are in the process of updating our website and ask for your patience while the site is under construction. We plan to update the photos on the website and need your help.  If you have photos of events at HMM that you would be willing to share, please submit them to us by email at highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com.  Please only submit photos that you are willing for us to share on our website and understand there is no guarantee we would use any specific photo.  Please submit photos in either jpg or png format with a minimum resolution of 72 ppi and a maximum size of 50 kb.

GIVE TODAY AND #impactHMM!  
NO SELLING! Yes, you read that correctly! We are conducting a direct giving campaign instead of fundraising. We ask parents to donate funds rather than sell items. Please share this link with your family, friends, neighbors, etc. and ask them to have an IMPACT on HMM. (All Contributions Are Tax Deductible). Help us reach our goal of $10,000!!! Have you ever asked yourself where the money goes?
Here are just a few examples:

• Popsicles at Open House
• Spring Spectacular
• Fall Festival
• Donuts with Dad
• Muffins with Mom
• Grandparents Day
• 6th grade graduation
• Classroom supplement
• Library supplement
• Training for faculty members
• Specials supplement - supplies for art, music, computer and gym teachers

As you can see we do a lot to support our school but we cannot do it alone. If every family gives $25 per child (enrolled at HMM) we could raise over $7,500! Some may not be able to give $25, while others may be able to give $100 (or more).  Every dollar is important, and goes directly to benefit our kids!  Don't forget to see if your company has a corporate matching program.  Donate at: https://impacthmm-giving-campaign-2017-2018.cheddarup.com or scan the code below:

BUY SPIRIT MERCHANDISE! 
Show your school spirit by sporting your Highland Mill Montessori tees, sweatshirts & car magnets! Students are encouraged to wear HMM shirts on the 2nd Friday of each month to show their school spirit.  Stock up today! 
                                     
Purchase at: https://highland-mill-montessori-spirit-merchandise-2017-2018.cheddarup.com or scan the code below:
               
                   
ATTEND THE SCHOOL LEADERSHIP TEAM (SLT) MEETING! 
The school leadership team is comprised of school administration, teachers and parents from HMM.  It's primary function is to facilitate in the development of the school improvement plan, monitor and assess the implementation of that plan, and make amendments as necessary.  The team will help to advance policies and procedures that will enhance achievement and meet educational, safety, and parent involvement goals. Lastly, the group will support decision making efforts by the school and assist in the communication thereof.  If you are not sure if your child's classroom has a volunteer, please check with your child's teacher. Upcoming meeting schedule:
October 19, 2017
November 16, 2017
December 14, 2017
January 18, 2018
February 15, 2018
March 15, 2018
April 19, 2018
May 17, 2018
All meetings are on a Thursday at 8 a.m. in the library/media center.  The school offers childcare in the computer lab during the meeting so that parents may attend.
ALL PARENTS ARE WELCOME AND ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND! If you have questions, concerns, suggestions that you would like to address with the HMM staff and administration, these meetings are your opportunity to do that.  If you would like to add an item to the agenda for discussion for one of the meetings, please contact Beth Leo atbeth.leo@cms.k12.nc.us.  Each classroom has a room parent as well if you would like to contact them regarding issues about the classroom.

DONATE TO THE HMM 20TH ANNIVERSARY ORCHARD & BUTTERFLY HIGHWAY! 
Thank you to everyone who donated to the 20th Anniversary Celebration Time Capsule. Now we are in phase 2, which is making the dream of a nature trail, orchard, and butterfly highway a reality.  Please DONATE to the school's nature trail, orchard, and butterfly highway at https://www.gofundme.com/hmm-20th-anniversary-orchard.
 
PAINT THE SPIRIT ROCK(S)!
Is it your child's birthday?  Have any other reason to celebrate?  Paint the spirit rock(s)!  It is only $5 to paint one of the rocks and $10 to paint both. Please check the PTA spirit rock calendar to verify the dates you wish to paint the rock are available before you pay.  Pay and check the calendar at:  https://highland-mill-spirit-rock-2017-2018.cheddarup.com/ or scan the code below and GET CREATIVE:

JOIN TODAY!
It is not too late if you haven't joined yet. We need your membership and support now more than ever! The cost of an annual membership is $5 (per parent) giving you the opportunity to vote and make your voice heard on important school issues. Only PTA members are able to vote, so make sure you join this year.  If you would like to join please click the link below:
https://my.cheddarup.com/c/highland-mill-montessori-pta-membership-dues-2017
or scan the QR code below:

** If you would like to use the QR codes provided in this e-mail, there are apps that can be downloaded to your phone which will allow you to use a QR code reader.
 
SUPPORT HIGHLAND MILL MONTESSORI SCHOOL!

• https://smile.amazon.com/ - Choose Highland Mill Montessori PTA.  Amazon will remind you when you shop to check in through Amazon Smile.
• https://www.harristeeter.com/together-in-education#/app/cms - Link your VIC card and don't forget to re-link if you have done it before. Choose Highland Mill Montessori School PTA. You can link up to 5 schools.
• https://www.labelsforeducation.com/My-School/Find-Your-School - This program ends January 2, 2018 but there is still time to send in your labels.
• http://www.boxtops4education.com/  You can send the box tops and labels in when you return the Thursday folder each week.  

KEEP UP WITH THE LATEST!

• PTA website: http://highlandmillmontessoripta.weebly.com/  -  UPDATES COMING SOON!
• Check out the helpful PTA calendar HERE. If you have a gmail account you can add the HMM PTA calendar to show our events in your personal calendar.  Our calendar is a combination of the HMM calendar, CMS calendar, ASEP calendar and our events all in one place!
• Follow us on Facebook - Highland Mill Montessori PTA: https://www.facebook.com/highlandmillmontessori
• We are now back on Twitter (@HMMPTA) - please follow us at https://twitter.com/hmmpta
• Join our Remind101 Mailing List: Text 424.789.8749 with the message @hmmpta
• Please contact us with any questions or concerns at highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com

SAVE THE DATE:
Monday, Sept.  25, 2017 by 11 p.m.:  PLACE YOUR ORDERS!  If you need HMM Spirit Merchandise before the next Spirit Day you must order by 11 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 25, 2017.  You may place orders after that date but they will not be filled prior to the next Spirit Day.
Friday, Sept. 29, 2017 - Dress Down Day (students do not have to wear uniforms to school) and Parents' Night Out (6:30 pm - 9:00 pm at Recess Charlotte)

MASS HEARING SCREENING INFORMATION:
All Pre-K, K and 1st grade students and students new to CMS will have a hearing screening performed by the school’s Speech-Language Pathologist unless the school is notified in writing by September 25th.   If a student does not pass the hearing screening after three attempts, a “Consent for Hearing Evaluation” permission form will be sent to the parent to proceed with a hearing evaluation at school.
 
Parents of students being monitored for history of hearing loss should be aware that they will also receive this consent form. Without signed permission, students will not receive a hearing evaluation by the school’s Audiologist.
 
If you have questions, please call the school at 980-343-5525 and ask for Traci Bailey, Speech-Language Pathologist.

GIVE TODAY AND #impactHMM!  
NO SELLING! Yes, you read that correctly! We are conducting a direct giving campaign instead of fundraising. We ask parents to donate funds rather than sell items. Please share this link with your family, friends, neighbors, etc. and ask them to have an IMPACT on HMM. (All Contributions Are Tax Deductible).  Help us reach our goal of $10,000!!! Have you ever asked yourself where the money goes?
Here are just a few examples:

• Popsicles at Open House
• Spring Spectacular
• Fall Festival
• Donuts with Dad
• Muffins with Mom
• Grandparents Day
• 6th grade graduation
• Classroom supplement
• Library supplement
• Training for faculty members
• Specials supplement - supplies for art, music, computer and gym teachers

As you can see we do a lot to support our school but we cannot do it alone. If every family gives $25 per child (enrolled at HMM) we could raise over $7,500! Some may not be able to give $25, while others may be able to give $100 (or more).  Every dollar is important, and goes directly to benefit our kids!  Don't forget to see if your company has a corporate matching program. Donate at: https://impacthmm-giving-campaign-2017-2018.cheddarup.com or scan the code below:



GET TO KNOW OTHER HMM PARENTS!
Our first PARENTS' NIGHT OUT of the school year will take place on Friday, September 29th from 6:30 p.m.- 9:00 p.m. at Recess Charlotte.  The restaurant is located two miles away from the school at 832 Seigle Avenue, Charlotte, NC  28204. Come have some fun with other HMM Parents!

BUY SPIRIT MERCHANDISE! 
Show your school spirit by sporting your Highland Mill Montessori tees, sweatshirts & car magnets! Students are encouraged to wear HMM shirts on the 2nd Friday of each month to show their school spirit. Stock up today!  Place your order by 11 pm on Monday, Sept. 25 2017 if you need Spirit Merchandise before the next Spirit Day!
                                     
Purchase at: https://highland-mill-montessori-spirit-merchandise-2017-2018.cheddarup.com or scan the code below:
 
               
                   
ATTEND THE SCHOOL LEADERSHIP TEAM (SLT) MEETING! 
The school leadership team is comprised of school administration, teachers and parents from HMM.  It's primary function is to facilitate in the development of the school improvement plan, monitor and assess the implementation of that plan, and make amendments as necessary.  The team will help to advance policies and procedures that will enhance achievement and meet educational, safety, and parent involvement goals. Lastly, the group will support decision making efforts by the school and assist in the communication thereof.  If you are not sure if your child's classroom has a volunteer, please check with your child's teacher. Upcoming meeting schedule:
October 19, 2017
November 16, 2017
December 14, 2017
January 18, 2018
February 15, 2018
March 15, 2018
April 19, 2018
May 17, 2018
All meetings are on a Thursday at 8 a.m. in the library/media center.  The school offers childcare in the computer lab during the meeting so that parents may attend.
ALL PARENTS ARE WELCOME AND ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND! If you have questions, concerns, suggestions that you would like to address with the HMM staff and administration, these meetings are your opportunity to do that.  If you would like to add an item to the agenda for discussion for one of the meetings, please contact Beth Leo atbeth.leo@cms.k12.nc.us.  Each classroom has a room parent as well if you would like to contact them regarding issues about the classroom.

DONATE TO THE HMM 20TH ANNIVERSARY ORCHARD & BUTTERFLY HIGHWAY! 
Thank you to everyone who donated to the 20th Anniversary Celebration Time Capsule. Now we are in phase 2, which is making the dream of a nature trail, orchard, and butterfly highway a reality.  Please DONATE to the school's nature trail, orchard, and butterfly highway at https://www.gofundme.com/hmm-20th-anniversary-orchard.
 
PAINT THE SPIRIT ROCK(S)!
Is it your child's birthday?  Have any other reason to celebrate?  Paint the spirit rock(s)!  It is only $5 to paint one of the rocks and $10 to paint both. Please check the PTA spirit rock calendar to verify the dates you wish to paint the rock are available before you pay.  Pay and check the calendar at:  https://highland-mill-spirit-rock-2017-2018.cheddarup.com/ or scan the code below and GET CREATIVE:


JOIN TODAY!
We need your membership and support now more than ever! The cost of an annual membership is $5 (per parent) giving you the opportunity to vote and make your voice heard on important school issues. Only PTA members are able to vote, so make sure you join this year.  If you would like to join please click the link below:
https://my.cheddarup.com/c/highland-mill-montessori-pta-membership-dues-2017
or scan the QR code below:


VOLUNTEER! 
We have a lot of wonderful events planned for the upcoming year but we need your help! There are phone calls to be made, shopping to be done, decor to be created and FUN to be had!  To volunteer, please contact the HMM PTA at: highlandmillmontessoripta.gmail.com  If you signed up to volunteer at the Open House and did not receive an email from us, please contact us.  
 
SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS!
Calling all photographers!  We are in the process of updating our website and ask for your patience while the site is under construction. We plan to update the photos on the website and need your help.  If you have photos of events at HMM that you would be willing to share, please submit them to us by email at highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com.  Please only submit photos that you are willing for us to share on our website and understand there is no guarantee we would use any specific photo.  Please submit photos in either jpg or png format with a minimum resolution of 72 ppi and a maximum size of 50 kb.
** If you would like to use the QR codes provided in this e-mail, there are apps that can be downloaded to your phone which will allow you to use a QR code reader.

SUPPORT HIGHLAND MILL MONTESSORI SCHOOL!

• https://smile.amazon.com/ - Choose Highland Mill Montessori PTA.  Amazon will remind you when you shop to check in through Amazon Smile.
• https://www.harristeeter.com/together-in-education#/app/cms - Link your VIC card and don't forget to re-link if you have done it before. Choose Highland Mill Montessori School PTA. You can link up to 5 schools.            

• https://www.labelsforeducation.com/My-School/Find-Your-School - This program ends January 2, 2018 but there is still time to send in your labels.
• http://www.boxtops4education.com/  You can send the box tops and labels in when you return the Thursday folder each week.  
• http://stocked.bjs.com/family/when-you-win-local-schools-win-box-tops-sweeps-bj%E2%80%99s - BJ's Sweepstakes - you can earn 5,000 box tops for the school between now and 9/30/2017

KEEP UP WITH THE LATEST!

• Click HERE for the PTA website: http://highlandmillmontessoripta.weebly.com/  - UPDATES COMING SOON!
• Check out the helpful PTA calendar HERE. If you have a gmail account you can add the HMM PTA calendar to show our events in your personal calendar.  Our calendar is a combination of the HMM calendar, CMS calendar, ASEP calendar and our events all in one place!
• Follow us on Facebook - Highland Mill Montessori PTA: https://www.facebook.com/highlandmillmontessori
• We are now back on Twitter (@HMMPTA) - please follow us at https://twitter.com/hmmpta
• Join our Remind101 Mailing List: Text 424.789.8749 with the message @hmmpta
• Please contact us with any questions or concerns at highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com

The First Week at HMM was a SUCCESS!This was the first week at HMM and it was definitely a success! Watching all the students come back together and see all their friends and their teachers. It was great for me as a parent to see all my "school friends" and reconnect. We are so excited to see what this school year holds for all at HMM!

THIS THURSDAY: SEPTEMBER 8th at 6:00 PM
It is imperative that parents attend the HMM School wide PTA meeting and Curriculum night. A brief PTA meeting will be held and parents are urged to attend. You will be able to learn about your PTA and the many chances you can have to IMPACT your school (in the classroom and out). After that, you will be able to visit your child's classroom and chat with teachers and staff! Please plan to join us!

Hart’s Soda Shop at Thursday’s Curriculum Night – a sweet way to #impactHMM

Our first Spirit Night event of the year will take place thisThursday, Sept. 8th, in conjunction with our general PTA meeting and curriculum night event.  Our NoDa neighbors, Hart’s Soda Shop, will be out front starting at 5:30pm.  Come early and enjoy a hand-crafted, all natural soda, float or sundae, or take one home after the event. Hart’s will donate 10% of all sales to our #impactHMM drive so be sure to stop by and treat yourself!  To view the full menu go to: http://www.hartssodashop.com/.
 
Parent’s Night Out at Free Range Brewing 

Join us Saturday,Sept. 24th from 6-9pm at Free Range Brewing, located at 2320 N. Davidson Street, for our first ever HMM Back-to-School Parent’s Night Out!  We’ll enjoy brews and food truck food (available for purchase onsite) as we have fun getting to know our fellow HMM parents and staff.  You survived the summer, now it’s time to celebrate the start of the new school year.  Book your sitter now and we’ll plan to see you there! If you have questions, please email us: hmmfamilyevents@gmail.com
 
SAVE THE DATE:
September 8: PTA Meeting & Curriculum Night (6pm)
September 24: Parent's Night Out at Free Range Brewing (6-9pm)
October 13:     Grandparents Breakfast (8am)
HMM PTA COMMITTEES

If you are interested in making an IMPACT at HMM and in children's lives here is the perfect opportunity!
★ Advocacy: Promote programs to further the goals and purposes of the PTA. Using our social
media outlets, educate families and caregivers on important issues related to health and educational
success for their children.
★ Audit : Responsible for the audits and financial reviews for the PTA. This includes a monthly and
yearly review of PTA bank statements and supporting documents.
★ Book Fair : Organize, setup and hold the Winter and Spring Book Fairs. This is a week long
commitment twice a year – December and April.
★ Communications : A standing committee that communicates all PTA and HMM news, events and
activities to families, teachers and staff. This committee creates a weekly ebulletin,
monthly calendar,
newsletter and bulletin board, and updates Facebook with all important information.
★ Fall Festival: A committee that organizes, plans and executes the annual HMM Fall Festival. This
is a onetime
commitment.
★ Family Spirit Nights: Plan and coordinate “Family Nights” at various venues for our families to
enjoy time together outside of the school environment. This committee is ongoing throughout the
school year.
★ Garden : Work with the teachers and staff to create a plan of action to coordinate the care and
maintenance of the gardens hold a Fall and Spring Gardening Day for our families. This committee is
ongoing throughout the school year.
★ Nominating : Works throughout the year to identify talented, motivated and responsible individuals
to serve as officers of the PTA. This involves preparing a slate of nominated individuals to run for
elected office of the PTA for the upcoming school year and conducting the election at the last PTA
General Assembly meeting of the current school year.
★ Room Parent Liaison: Point of contact between Room Parents and the PTA. Communicates
information to Room Parents from the PTA regarding news, events and activities where classroom and
parent involvement is needed.
★ Special Events: Work within a committee to plan, coordinate and execute Special Events
sponsored by the PTA that are held throughout the year. These events include Grandparents Day,
Doughnuts with Dad, Muffins with Mom, and Teacher Appreciation Week.
★ Spirit Wear: A committee that coordinates the sale of school spirit merchandise throughout the
school year. This involves ordering, selling and distributing school tshirts
and car magnets.
Merchandise is available for sale at Open House, Back to School Night and Fall Festival as well as via
preorder
sales at designated times during the school year.
★ Thursday Folders: A committee that collects all materials to be distributed in weekly Thursday
folders. This includes making copies and distributing materials to classrooms by Wednesday afternoon
of each week. You must have the flexibility and availability to be at school during the day for at least an
hour on Wednesday each week.
★ Webmaster: Maintains and updates the HMM PTA website. Works closely with the
Communications Chair to ensure that all information is current and available to families, teachers and
staff in a timely manner.
Please email highlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com with what committee you are interested in!
IMPORTANT NEWS FROM YOUR HMM PTA!!!
                                                   
Join HMM PTA Today!
We need your membership and support now more than ever!  Our goal is to have at least one member of EVERY HMM family become a member of the HMM PTA.  The cost of an annual membership is $5 (per person) giving you the opportunity to vote and make your voice heard on important school issues.  We hold PTA General Assembly meetings 3 times each school year (September, December & May).  Only PTA members are able to vote on important school issues, so make sure you join this year.  It's always a GREAT TIME to JOIN the PTA, so JOIN TODAY!
https://highland-mill-montessori-pta-dues.cheddarup.com/
 
Give Today - Make a Difference & #impactHMM!
We greatly appreciate your support with our annual direct giving campaign.  This year we are conducting a direct giving campaign instead of fundraising through the sale of items. Yes, you read that correctly - NO SELLING!!  Please share this link with your family, friends, neighbors, etc.  https://impacthmm-giving-campaign.cheddarup.com and ask them to have an IMPACT on HMM (all contributions are tax deductible). There is no limit to the IMPACT you and your family can have on HMM this year!  
Please consider contributing to the #impactHMM campaign today!  The funds raised go to provide so much to our school - classroom supplements, library books, classroom rugs, Fall Festival, Fun Run, Field Day, the Ice Cream Social and so many more events that make Highland Mill Montessori the special place it is for our children.  
We have 5 different levels of giving – Bronze ($50), Silver ($100), Gold ($200) or Platinum ($300+) or an open dollar amount (a contribution of as little as $25 can help us reach our goal).  Each of the combo packs comes with lots of HMM spirit merchandise, so you can show off your support for our wonderful school!  Every dollar is important and goes directly to benefit our kids! Don't forget to see if your company has a corporate matching program.
With the deep budget cuts that the North Carolina educational system has seen over the past few years, it is up to us to provide our children with the materials & technology they need to be COMPETITIVE in ourEDUCATIONAL COMMUNITY!
Please consider the ways that your family is able to contribute to our school giving campaign and make the commitment to #impactHMM today!
https://impacthmm-giving-campaign.cheddarup.com/
 
Montessori Mornings & Afternoons Programs
Register for Montessori Mornings & Afternoons Session 1!  This session runs from the week of Monday, September 12th through the week of Friday, November 7th.  Registration deadline is Wednesday, September 7th.  The HMM PTA sponsors before and after school activities for all Highland Mill students. 
We offer Spanish, Science and Tae Kwon Do in the mornings and swimming, sports and gymnastics through the Johnston YMCA in the afternoons.   These wonderful programs give our students and families the opportunity to participate in these wonderful programs throughout the school year.  Sign up TODAY!
https://montessori-mornings-afternoons.cheddarup.com
Text Reminding from the PTA
Do you feel like you are forgetting important dates for HMM and the PTA? Days off? Deadlines? Events? YES???? Then join the HMM Text reminding! Just text 81010  with the message @hmmpta. or click thislink! Just another way to join the HMM Community!

Spirit Rock Info
HMM has two Spirit Rocks available for painting! If you'd like to paint the Spirit Rock, you must first check to see if the date is available on the Spirit Rock calendar here. If your date is available, then please fill out this form and send in $10 to HMM PTA. Once the money is received, the PTA will reserve the date on the calendar. Can’t wait to see all your beautiful Spirit Rock creations!

Join the HMM Community
If you are interested in joining the PTA and helping support HMM please contact the PTA directly atHighlandmillmontessoripta@gmail.com. If you have already expressed this interest, your committee chair should have contacted you-if they have not, please email us so that we can make sure the information we have is correct. REMEMBER- you do not have to be at the school to help! There is a role for everyone!. We look forward to growing the PTA family so that our children can have the best year yet! 
 Support our school by shopping on Amazon
Now you can support our school by shopping on Amazon! Make your purchases through this link: http://smile.amazon.com/ch/56-2052326 and our school will get back a percentage. You can use your existing Amazon username and password. It's super easy and just in time for the holiday shopping!!




Give Back to HMM by Shopping
There are several ways you can support our school, just by shopping. Link your Target REDcard, VIC Card (you can do this online if you have your card with you-it's easy!) or BiLo Bonus Card to our school and automatically donate a percentage of your purchases. Also, visit www.Shoparoo.com for another way to support our school each time you shop. 


How Do I Keep in Touch with the PTA?
o    Bookmark our website: www.highlandmillmontessoripta.weebly.com
o    Friend us on Facebook: Highland Mill Montessori PTA
o    Join Remind: Text 424.203.0478 with the message @hmmpta




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