Dear Cook Families,

 I am thrilled to welcome each of you to another exciting school year at Cook Elementary School! A special welcome goes out to all the new families joining our community this year. We are delighted to have you with us and look forward to an enriching and successful year together.

Our school is committed to fostering an environment of innovation and excellence, and I am excited to share that we will be launching our new STEM Program on August 29, 2024, at 6:00 PM. This initiative promises to bring new and exciting opportunities for our students to explore and excel in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

During our kick-off event, we will have hands-on activities for everyone to explore, as well as light refreshments. We will also provide an overview of the STEM Program and offer an opportunity to meet our wonderful teachers.

Please note that we are a uniform school. Our students are required to wear khaki bottoms and burgundy tops. Your support in ensuring that students adhere to the uniform policy is greatly appreciated.

The first day of school is Thursday, September 5th. Please be aware that Thursday and Friday will be half-days. School starts at 8:05 AM and ends at 2:35 PM, with students allowed to enter the building as early as 7:30 AM. Additionally, the YMCA provides an After School Program that runs until 6:00 PM, offering a safe and engaging environment for our students.

To start the school year on a positive note, we will kick off the first day of school with our traditional opening ceremony led by our fifth-grade students. This kick-off event will begin in front of the school at 8:10 AM and is a wonderful way to bring our community together and set the tone for the year.

Mark your calendars for our Back to School Night on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at 6:30 PM. This will be an excellent opportunity for you to meet the teachers, learn more about our curriculum, and understand how we can work together to support your child's success.

I am also excited to announce that our Parent and Teacher Association Team (PAAT), formerly known as the PTO, is now led by our new president, Maggie Dipietro. Maggie is looking for enthusiastic parents and teachers to join her team in planning events for our school. Your involvement in PAAT is a great way to support our school community and contribute to a vibrant and engaging school year.

Our first fundraiser of the year will be the Double Good Popcorn Fundraiser, beginning on September 26th and running through September 30th. The student who is the top seller will have the exciting opportunity to be "Principal for the Day"! This is a wonderful chance for our students to engage in leadership and contribute to our school's success.

Your involvement is vital to our students' success, and I deeply appreciate all that you do to contribute to their education and well-being. Together, we can create a nurturing and inspiring environment where every child can thrive.

Welcome once again to all our families. Let’s make this school year one of growth, discovery, and achievement!

Warm regards,

Dr. Caryn D. Cooper

Principal, Cook Elementary School