Upper Elementary News

Inside the Pride Upper Elementary School News - Volume 207

Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Upper Elementary School

Published February 11, 2024

Volume 207

 

Adam Vinson - Upper Elementary School Principal

 

A MESSAGE FROM MR. VINSON

If you haven’t completed the re-enrollment process, please don’t delay. We are filling up quickly and will be opening up our enrollment process to new families very soon. Have questions about next year? I’m happy to meet and discuss if there are ways we can serve your family better. Our hope is that your family will join us for all that the LORD has in store for 2024-2025.

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Let me know how our team is doing in keeping you informed about your child’s education this year. If you are lacking communication regarding one of your child’s classes, please let me know so I can help! adam.vinson@tcslions.org

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

UPCOMING UPPER ELEMENTARY DATES

  • February 14 = Valentine’s Day Dress Down - wear red or pink with uniform bottoms

  • March 5 = Creative Writing Workshop

LAST WEEK IN CHAPEL

Pastor Genaro Lawhorn, Family Ministries Director at Passion City Church, encouraged our students to see that our lives are defined by a series of moments. The moment we are introduced to Jesus has the ability to change everything. Using John 5:2-9 and the story of the lame man, he helped our students see that moment with Jesus changed everything for that man. It was a great reminder for our students, and we are super thankful that Pastor Genaro was willing to come share.

LIONS OF THE WEEK

Students who have been recognized by their teachers for setting a good example and making right choices during the school day. 

  • 4th Grade - Colton Gallaway

  • 5th Grade - Ronan Holsenback

THIS WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE: 

As you may notice, our 4th-8th graders memorize the same verses each year. These memory verses are selected intentionally based on the promises and truths they contain that are so relevant for our students as they learn to follow Goodness. Our hope is that these 20 verses will be remembered for years to come after being memorized for multiple years in Upper Elementary and Middle School. 

Hebrews 3:12-13

v. 12 Take care, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God. v. 13 But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

This past week we continued our Black History Month study with upper elementary students learning about Thurgood Marshall, Louis Armstrong, Madam CJ Walker, Langston Hughes, Mae Jemison and more! We also had an exciting Kahoot game during our Den Time on Wednesday and another game of Black History Bingo at lunch on Friday! Check out who our students will be learning about this upcoming week. 

  • Jackie Robinson

  • Mary McLeod Bethune

  • Ella FItzgerald

  • Jesse Owens

  • George Washington Carver

UPCOMING VALENTINE’S DAY CELEBRATION

Valentine’s Day is this week, and we want to give our 4th and 5th graders the opportunity to celebrate if they would like to! If your student would like to participate, they are welcome to bring in Valentines for their entire homeroom class OR all of the students of the same gender in their homeroom. Teachers will provide a list of all students in their homeroom. Feel free to bring a festive Valentine box/bag from home, but this is not required!Students are also welcome to wear their pink and red shirts with uniform bottoms on Valentine’s Day too!

ELEMENTARY TALENT SHOW

Please join us on Thursday, February 15th for our annual Talent Show!  These 1st through 5th graders always put on quite a show - you will be glad you came!

UPCOMING WRITER WORKSHOP FOR 4TH AND 5TH GRADERS

We are excited to announce that Christian author Jenny L. Cote will be coming to Trinity on March 5 to lead a creative writing workshop for all of our Upper Elementary students. We have a special day planned and will be sharing more details as we get closer. One thing we wanted to make you aware of now is an opportunity to pre-order books for her special author signing session. Check out this link to learn more about her available options.

READ ACROSS AMERICA WEEK

We are excited to celebrate Read Across America the week of March 4-8. This will be a fun filled week in which we will celebrate reading while highlighting some of our favorite authors like Dr Seuss. We are looking forward to this fun week together! 

Specific Dress Down Days:

  • Monday: Crazy Hat Day (Wear your favorite/crazy hat along with a regular uniform).

  • Tuesday: One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish (Wear red and blue). If your child participates, they do not need to wear a regular uniform.

  • Wednesday: Wacky Wednesday (Wear mismatched/backwards clothes). If your child participates, they do not need to wear a regular uniform.

  • Thursday: Thing 1 and Thing 2 Day (Dress like Thing 1 and Thing 2 OR dress identical to a friend). If your child participates, they do not need to wear a regular uniform.

  • Friday:  Crazy Sock Day (Wear your craziest socks along with a TCS spirit wear shirt and uniform bottoms or jeans).

JUST READ

Don’t forget to have your child participate in our Quarter 3 Just Read Program. Please use this form to record your reading for this upcoming quarter!

BLACKBAUD CLASSROOM INFORMATION

Blackbaud is going to be your main source of information this year. Once you login, you will see a drop down arrow in the top left corner to choose which student’s information to look at. When you click on your 4th or 5th grade student, you will see summary information, and then when you scroll down, you will see each of your student’s classes. Each class is clickable. Please click on your student’s homeroom class to see the weekly newsletter for 4th or 5th grade. Once you are in your student’s homeroom class, it will open up the Bulletin Board. Here is where you will find the clickable link for the newsletter that will be added each week. Any important information for the week will be found here. 

To find information on each specific class, you will go back to the main page for your student and click on each individual class. Again, when you click on the desired class, it will open to that class’ Bulletin Board. Here you will find helpful information such as what to do should your student be absent. For information regarding lesson plans that will include the plans for the week, homework assignments, and any upcoming tests, quizzes, or projects, you will need to click on the “Topics” tab.

To recap:

  • Weekly newsletter is found on your student’s homeroom Bulletin Board.

  • Lesson plans, assignments, etc…are found in the specific classes Topic tab.

UPPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RESOURCES

HOUSE SYSTEM COMPETITION

Check out who is leading the competition at www.tcshouses.weebly.com. 

23/24 SCHOOL CALENDAR: Stay in the know about upcoming breaks and holidays.

DRESS CODE OVERVIEW - Check out this year’s guidelines

PRE-ABSENCE FORM - Submit pre-planned absences 5 days ahead of time for approval.

GENERAL REMINDERS

REMINDER: BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 

Would you like to celebrate your child’s birthday this year? Consider one of the following options as a way to make their day special. 

  • Purchase birthday cart treat items from our snack cart for your child’s homeroom class for $25. Email our Director of Student Life, Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org), if you would like to schedule a day. 

    • PLEASE GIVE A 2-DAY NOTICE SO PREPARATIONS CAN BE MADE

  • Send in prepackaged birthday treats purchased from a store for the homeroom class. 

  • Join your child for lunch (beginning in September) in the cafeteria. 

REMINDER: ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES

The following steps should be taken for reporting absences for 4th - 8th grade:

  • Send excuses for absences, including doctor’s notes to attendance@tcslions.org.

  • Send PRE-ABSENCE REQUESTS (family trips, etc.) to Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) via your child’s homeroom teacher. 

If your child has to miss class this year due to sickness or quarantine, check out our process below for getting your child caught up on missing work and assignments. Please also notify the nursing team to make them aware of surgeries or long-term illnesses at nurses@tcslions.org.

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 1-5 DAYS? - Have your child connect with their teachers upon their return to the classroom. We will not send makeup work home for sick absences of this length through our Return to Academics program. 

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 5+ DAYS? - Reach out to Kasey Hanson (Return to Academics Coordinator) so we can best determine a makeup plan for your child. Mrs. Hanson will help collect makeup work for you to simplify the process. 

  • NOTE: If your child is sick, we want your child to focus on resting and healing before worrying about missing assignments. Please know our teachers will work diligently to help your child catch up once they are feeling well enough to complete assignments.

(pictured l to r) Mrs. McBurnett, Mrs. Lanier, Mr. Higgins, and Mrs. Hanson

Check out our list of administrative faculty below who can help support you with all of your needs throughout this year.

UPPER ELEMENTARY ADMIN TEAM: WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

  • 4th Grade Academic Coordinator - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett can assist you with any academic-related needs for 4th grade.

  • 5th Grade Academic Coordinator - Melissa Lanier (melissa.lanier@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Lanier can assist you with any academic-related needs for 5th grade. 

  • Director of Student Life - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett oversees our special events and field trips while also handling our middle school counseling duties. 

  • Director of Student Development - Dylan Higgins (dylan.higgins@tcslions.org)

    • Mr. Higgins oversees the spiritual development of our student body while also assisting with discipline issues. 

  • Upper Elementary RTA Coordinator - Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Hanson can assist you with makeup work due to any extended absences.

 

Inside the Pride Upper Elementary School News - Volume 206

Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Upper Elementary School

Published February 4, 2024

Volume 206

 

Adam Vinson - Upper Elementary School Principal

 

A MESSAGE FROM MR. VINSON

Re-enrollment is well under way, and we are extremely excited by the record response we are seeing in the first few days. As spots begin to fill up, please don’t delay in completing the process if you intend for your child to return. Have questions about next year? I’m happy to meet and discuss if there are ways we can serve your family better. Our hope is that your family will join us for all that the LORD has in store for 2024-2025.

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Let me know how our team is doing in keeping you informed about your child’s education this year. If you are lacking communication regarding one of your child’s classes, please let me know so I can help! adam.vinson@tcslions.org

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

UPCOMING UPPER ELEMENTARY DATES

  • February 6 = Family Night - No Homework will be assigned

  • February 8 = House Color Day

  • February 9 = Super Bowl Dress Down - wear your favorite team apparel with uniform bottoms

  • February 14 = Valentine’s Day Dress Down - wear red or pink with uniform bottoms

  • March 5 = Creative Writing Workshop

LAST WEEK IN CHAPEL

Mr. Vinson spoke to our students on the topic of tongues in the Bible. No, we didn’t talk about speaking in tongues, but we did take a look at the Tower of Babel, and how God confused the tongues of mankind in response to human rebellion. In addition, we looked towards the coming day when “every knee will bow, and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is LORD” in Philippians 2.  Mr. Vinson challenged our students to be ready for the return of Jesus in order to be a part of the great worship service in Revelation 7 when people from every tribe, nation and tongue will be speaking the same truth - “Salvation belongs to our God”.

LIONS OF THE WEEK

Students who have been recognized by their teachers for setting a good example and making right choices during the school day. 

  • 4th Grade - Cameron Crisp

  • 5th Grade - Carleigh Partington

THIS WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE: 

As you may notice, our 4th-8th graders memorize the same verses each year. These memory verses are selected intentionally based on the promises and truths they contain that are so relevant for our students as they learn to follow Goodness. Our hope is that these 20 verses will be remembered for years to come after being memorized for multiple years in Upper Elementary and Middle School. 

Galatians 6:7-8

v. 7 Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. 

v. 8 For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

This past week we kicked off our Black History Month with upper elementary students learning about Martin Luther King Jr and Rosa Parks. We also had an exciting game of Black History Bingo at lunch on Friday! Check out who our students will be learning about this upcoming week. 

  • Thurgood Marshall

  • Louis Armstrong

  • Madam CJ Walker

  • Langston Hughes

  • Mae Jemison

QUARTER 3 FAMILY NIGHT

Family Night is back this Tuesday night! There will be NO HOMEWORK on Tuesday, Feb 6 and NO ASSESSMENTS on Wednesday, Feb 7. Enjoy the extra time as a family and do something fun together!

HOUSE COLOR DAY

Don’t forget to show your House spirit on Thursday, February 8.

SUPER BOWL DRESS DOWN FRIDAY

This Friday, in anticipation of the big game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers, students are encouraged to wear their favorite team jersey, sweatshirt or t-shirt on Friday, February 9. NO HATS though unless it is a TCS hat.

UPCOMING VALENTINE’S DAY CELEBRATION

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and we want to give our 4th and 5th graders the opportunity to celebrate if they would like to! If your student would like to participate, they are welcome to bring in Valentines for their entire homeroom class OR all of the students of the same gender in their homeroom. Teachers will provide a list of all students in their homeroom. Feel free to bring a festive Valentine box/bag from home, but this is not required!Students are also welcome to wear their pink and red shirts with uniform bottoms on Valentine’s Day too!

ELEMENTARY TALENT SHOW

We are looking for our Upper Elementary students who would like to show off their wide array of talents at our upcoming Elementary Talent Show! Our Performing Arts Department has included some details and information below. We hope to see your child at the performance!

  • Tuesday, February 13 - Dress Rehearsal 3:30pm

  • Thursday, February 15 - Talent Show 6pm

Use the below to sign up!

UPCOMING WRITER WORKSHOP FOR 4TH AND 5TH GRADERS

We are excited to announce that Christian author Jenny L. Cote will be coming to Trinity on March 5 to lead a creative writing workshop for all of our Upper Elementary students. We have a special day planned and will be sharing more details as we get closer. One thing we wanted to make you aware of now is an opportunity to pre-order books for her special author signing session. Check out this link to learn more about her available options.

READ ACROSS AMERICA WEEK

We are excited to celebrate Read Across America the week of March 4-8. This will be a fun filled week in which we will celebrate reading while highlighting some of our favorite authors like Dr Seuss. We are looking forward to this fun week together! 

Specific Dress Down Days:

  • Monday: Crazy Hat Day (Wear your favorite/crazy hat along with a regular uniform).

  • Tuesday: One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish (Wear red and blue). If your child participates, they do not need to wear a regular uniform.

  • Wednesday: Wacky Wednesday (Wear mismatched/backwards clothes). If your child participates, they do not need to wear a regular uniform.

  • Thursday: Thing 1 and Thing 2 Day (Dress like Thing 1 and Thing 2 OR dress identical to a friend). If your child participates, they do not need to wear a regular uniform.

  • Friday:  Crazy Sock Day (Wear your craziest socks along with a TCS spirit wear shirt and uniform bottoms or jeans).

JUST READ

Don’t forget to have your child participate in our Quarter 3 Just Read Program. Please use this form to record your reading for this upcoming quarter!

BLACKBAUD CLASSROOM INFORMATION

Blackbaud is going to be your main source of information this year. Once you login, you will see a drop down arrow in the top left corner to choose which student’s information to look at. When you click on your 4th or 5th grade student, you will see summary information, and then when you scroll down, you will see each of your student’s classes. Each class is clickable. Please click on your student’s homeroom class to see the weekly newsletter for 4th or 5th grade. Once you are in your student’s homeroom class, it will open up the Bulletin Board. Here is where you will find the clickable link for the newsletter that will be added each week. Any important information for the week will be found here. 

To find information on each specific class, you will go back to the main page for your student and click on each individual class. Again, when you click on the desired class, it will open to that class’ Bulletin Board. Here you will find helpful information such as what to do should your student be absent. For information regarding lesson plans that will include the plans for the week, homework assignments, and any upcoming tests, quizzes, or projects, you will need to click on the “Topics” tab.

To recap:

  • Weekly newsletter is found on your student’s homeroom Bulletin Board.

  • Lesson plans, assignments, etc…are found in the specific classes Topic tab.

UPPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RESOURCES

HOUSE SYSTEM COMPETITION

Check out who is leading the competition at www.tcshouses.weebly.com. 

23/24 SCHOOL CALENDAR: Stay in the know about upcoming breaks and holidays.

DRESS CODE OVERVIEW - Check out this year’s guidelines

PRE-ABSENCE FORM - Submit pre-planned absences 5 days ahead of time for approval.

GENERAL REMINDERS

REMINDER: BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 

Would you like to celebrate your child’s birthday this year? Consider one of the following options as a way to make their day special. 

  • Purchase birthday cart treat items from our snack cart for your child’s homeroom class for $25. Email our Director of Student Life, Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org), if you would like to schedule a day. 

    • PLEASE GIVE A 2-DAY NOTICE SO PREPARATIONS CAN BE MADE

  • Send in prepackaged birthday treats purchased from a store for the homeroom class. 

  • Join your child for lunch (beginning in September) in the cafeteria. 

REMINDER: ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES

The following steps should be taken for reporting absences for 4th - 8th grade:

  • Send excuses for absences, including doctor’s notes to attendance@tcslions.org.

  • Send PRE-ABSENCE REQUESTS (family trips, etc.) to Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) via your child’s homeroom teacher. 

If your child has to miss class this year due to sickness or quarantine, check out our process below for getting your child caught up on missing work and assignments. Please also notify the nursing team to make them aware of surgeries or long-term illnesses at nurses@tcslions.org.

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 1-5 DAYS? - Have your child connect with their teachers upon their return to the classroom. We will not send makeup work home for sick absences of this length through our Return to Academics program. 

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 5+ DAYS? - Reach out to Kasey Hanson (Return to Academics Coordinator) so we can best determine a makeup plan for your child. Mrs. Hanson will help collect makeup work for you to simplify the process. 

  • NOTE: If your child is sick, we want your child to focus on resting and healing before worrying about missing assignments. Please know our teachers will work diligently to help your child catch up once they are feeling well enough to complete assignments.

(pictured l to r) Mrs. McBurnett, Mrs. Lanier, Mr. Higgins, and Mrs. Hanson

Check out our list of administrative faculty below who can help support you with all of your needs throughout this year.

UPPER ELEMENTARY ADMIN TEAM: WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

  • 4th Grade Academic Coordinator - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett can assist you with any academic-related needs for 4th grade.

  • 5th Grade Academic Coordinator - Melissa Lanier (melissa.lanier@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Lanier can assist you with any academic-related needs for 5th grade. 

  • Director of Student Life - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett oversees our special events and field trips while also handling our middle school counseling duties. 

  • Director of Student Development - Dylan Higgins (dylan.higgins@tcslions.org)

    • Mr. Higgins oversees the spiritual development of our student body while also assisting with discipline issues. 

  • Upper Elementary RTA Coordinator - Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Hanson can assist you with makeup work due to any extended absences.

 

Inside the Pride Upper Elementary School News - Volume 205

Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Upper Elementary School

Published January 28, 2024

Volume 205

 

Adam Vinson - Upper Elementary School Principal

 

A MESSAGE FROM MR. VINSON

Re-enrollment season begins this week, and we are already getting excited about the 24-25 school year. I know many of you are thinking through the best plans for your child for next school year, and I just want to make sure you know I’m available to answer any questions or discuss any concerns you may have. Our goal is to ensure every student in our program is thriving year after year, so please don’t hesitate to reach out if you would like to talk about how we can ensure this goal is accomplished for your child next year as you make re-enrollment decisions. We consider it a tremendous privilege to serve your family and hope to continue that partnership with each of you beyond this current school year. I have no doubt the LORD has great things in store for next year, and we certainly hope you will be a part of it with us here at TCS. Again, if there is anything I can do to help assist you with your decision-making for next year, don’t hesitate to ask.

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Let me know how our team is doing in keeping you informed about your child’s education this year. If you are lacking communication regarding one of your child’s classes, please let me know so I can help! adam.vinson@tcslions.org

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

UPCOMING UPPER ELEMENTARY DATES

  • February 6 = Family Night - No Homework will be assigned

  • February 8 = House Color Day

  • February 9 = Super Bowl Dress Down - wear your favorite team apparel with uniform bottoms

  • February 14 = Valentine’s Day Dress Down - wear red or pink with uniform bottoms

  • March 5 = Creative Writing Workshop

LAST WEEK IN CHAPEL

Pastor BJ Cobb from First Baptist Senoia spoke to our students from John 14:1-6. Pastor BJ encouraged our students with the promise that Jesus has gone to prepare a place for us and will come again, but he also warned our students to make sure they are on the reservation list for a spot in the place He is preparing. Reminding our students that Jesus is the way, the truth and the life, he encouraged our students to give thoughtful pause as to whether they have truly given their lives to Jesus.

LIONS OF THE WEEK

Students who have been recognized by their teachers for setting a good example and making right choices during the school day. 

  • 4th Grade - Denver Huddleston

  • 5th Grade - Warren Bugden

THIS WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE: 

As you may notice, our 4th-8th graders memorize the same verses each year. These memory verses are selected intentionally based on the promises and truths they contain that are so relevant for our students as they learn to follow Goodness. Our hope is that these 20 verses will be remembered for years to come after being memorized for multiple years in Upper Elementary and Middle School. 

Romans 12:1-2a

v. 1 I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. v. 2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

As we approach the month of February, we are excited about the month-long focus we have planned to celebrate the diversity of both Black History Month and G.R.A.C.E. As you may know, G.R.A.C.E. at Trinity stands for G-ender, R-esources, A-bility, C-olor, and E-thnicity. Our goal this month is to celebrate the ways God has made us different as we better learn to see each other through the lens of being created in God’s image. Our teachers are working hard to plan lessons and activities that will support this goal throughout February. May the LORD be glorified through our efforts as we point our students to Him by calling them to love each other well.

UPCOMING VALENTINE’S DAY CELEBRATION

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and we want to give our 4th and 5th graders the opportunity to celebrate if they would like to! If your student would like to participate, they are welcome to bring in Valentines for their entire homeroom class OR all of the students of the same gender in their homeroom. Teachers will provide a list of all students in their homeroom. Feel free to bring a festive Valentine box/bag from home, but this is not required!Students are also welcome to wear their pink and red shirts with uniform bottoms on Valentine’s Day too!

ELEMENTARY TALENT SHOW

We are looking for our Upper Elementary students who would like to show off their wide array of talents at our upcoming Elementary Talent Show! Our Performing Arts Department has included some details and information below. We hope to see your child at the performance!

  • Tuesday, February 13 - Dress Rehearsal 3:30pm

  • Thursday, February 15 - Talent Show 6pm

Use the below to sign up!

UPCOMING WRITER WORKSHOP FOR 4TH AND 5TH GRADERS

We are excited to announce that Christian author Jenny L. Cote will be coming to Trinity on March 5 to lead a creative writing workshop for all of our Upper Elementary students. We have a special day planned and will be sharing more details as we get closer. One thing we wanted to make you aware of now is an opportunity to pre-order books for her special author signing session. Check out this link to learn more about her available options.

JUST READ

Don’t forget to have your child participate in our Quarter 3 Just Read Program. Please use this form to record your reading for this upcoming quarter!

BLACKBAUD CLASSROOM INFORMATION

Blackbaud is going to be your main source of information this year. Once you login, you will see a drop down arrow in the top left corner to choose which student’s information to look at. When you click on your 4th or 5th grade student, you will see summary information, and then when you scroll down, you will see each of your student’s classes. Each class is clickable. Please click on your student’s homeroom class to see the weekly newsletter for 4th or 5th grade. Once you are in your student’s homeroom class, it will open up the Bulletin Board. Here is where you will find the clickable link for the newsletter that will be added each week. Any important information for the week will be found here. 

To find information on each specific class, you will go back to the main page for your student and click on each individual class. Again, when you click on the desired class, it will open to that class’ Bulletin Board. Here you will find helpful information such as what to do should your student be absent. For information regarding lesson plans that will include the plans for the week, homework assignments, and any upcoming tests, quizzes, or projects, you will need to click on the “Topics” tab.

To recap:

  • Weekly newsletter is found on your student’s homeroom Bulletin Board.

  • Lesson plans, assignments, etc…are found in the specific classes Topic tab.

UPPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RESOURCES

HOUSE SYSTEM COMPETITION

Check out who is leading the competition at www.tcshouses.weebly.com. 

23/24 SCHOOL CALENDAR: Stay in the know about upcoming breaks and holidays.

DRESS CODE OVERVIEW - Check out this year’s guidelines

PRE-ABSENCE FORM - Submit pre-planned absences 5 days ahead of time for approval.

GENERAL REMINDERS

REMINDER: BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 

Would you like to celebrate your child’s birthday this year? Consider one of the following options as a way to make their day special. 

  • Purchase birthday cart treat items from our snack cart for your child’s homeroom class for $25. Email our Director of Student Life, Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org), if you would like to schedule a day. 

    • PLEASE GIVE A 2-DAY NOTICE SO PREPARATIONS CAN BE MADE

  • Send in prepackaged birthday treats purchased from a store for the homeroom class. 

  • Join your child for lunch (beginning in September) in the cafeteria. 

REMINDER: ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES

The following steps should be taken for reporting absences for 4th - 8th grade:

  • Send excuses for absences, including doctor’s notes to attendance@tcslions.org.

  • Send PRE-ABSENCE REQUESTS (family trips, etc.) to Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) via your child’s homeroom teacher. 

If your child has to miss class this year due to sickness or quarantine, check out our process below for getting your child caught up on missing work and assignments. Please also notify the nursing team to make them aware of surgeries or long-term illnesses at nurses@tcslions.org.

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 1-5 DAYS? - Have your child connect with their teachers upon their return to the classroom. We will not send makeup work home for sick absences of this length through our Return to Academics program. 

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 5+ DAYS? - Reach out to Kasey Hanson (Return to Academics Coordinator) so we can best determine a makeup plan for your child. Mrs. Hanson will help collect makeup work for you to simplify the process. 

  • NOTE: If your child is sick, we want your child to focus on resting and healing before worrying about missing assignments. Please know our teachers will work diligently to help your child catch up once they are feeling well enough to complete assignments.

(pictured l to r) Mrs. McBurnett, Mrs. Lanier, Mr. Higgins, and Mrs. Hanson

Check out our list of administrative faculty below who can help support you with all of your needs throughout this year.

UPPER ELEMENTARY ADMIN TEAM: WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

  • 4th Grade Academic Coordinator - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett can assist you with any academic-related needs for 4th grade.

  • 5th Grade Academic Coordinator - Melissa Lanier (melissa.lanier@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Lanier can assist you with any academic-related needs for 5th grade. 

  • Director of Student Life - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett oversees our special events and field trips while also handling our middle school counseling duties. 

  • Director of Student Development - Dylan Higgins (dylan.higgins@tcslions.org)

    • Mr. Higgins oversees the spiritual development of our student body while also assisting with discipline issues. 

  • Upper Elementary RTA Coordinator - Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Hanson can assist you with makeup work due to any extended absences.

 

Inside the Pride Upper Elementary School News - Volume 204

Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Upper Elementary School

Published January 21, 2024

Volume 204

 

Adam Vinson - Upper Elementary School Principal

 

A MESSAGE FROM MR. VINSON

We are back to 5-day weeks as we pass the mid-way point of January. The extra little breaks and cancellations have been helpful as we get back into the groove of school after Christmas Break. Can you believe we are already starting Week 4 of this semester? Be sure to keep an eye on your child’s performance as Q3 always proves to be a challenging quarter due to a lack of motivation after the holidays. We are doing our part to help motivate your kids here, especially in our recent chapel services, but we need your help at home too. Feel free to reach out to your child’s teacher if you notice any academic concerns over this 9-week period.

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Let me know how our team is doing in keeping you informed about your child’s education this year. If you are lacking communication regarding one of your child’s classes, please let me know so I can help! adam.vinson@tcslions.org

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

UPCOMING UPPER ELEMENTARY DATES

  • February 6 = Family Night - No Homework will be assigned

  • February 8 = House Color Day

  • February 9 = Super Bowl Dress Down - wear your favorite team apparel with uniform bottoms

  • February 14 = Valentine’s Day Dress Down - wear red or pink with uniform bottoms

LAST WEEK IN CHAPEL

Mrs. Peters, UE Bible teacher, spoke to our students on what it means to focus on God as we enter 2024. Using the story of Israel when they were set free from Exodus and called to remember God at the first of their new year with Passover, Mrs. Peters reminded the students that we too ought to strive to remember God’s salvation and goodness to us at the beginning of each new year as well.

LIONS OF THE WEEK

Students who have been recognized by their teachers for setting a good example and making right choices during the school day. 

  • Returning next week

THIS WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE: 

As you may notice, our 4th-8th graders memorize the same verses each year. These memory verses are selected intentionally based on the promises and truths they contain that are so relevant for our students as they learn to follow Goodness. Our hope is that these 20 verses will be remembered for years to come after being memorized for multiple years in Upper Elementary and Middle School. 

Romans 12:1-2a

v. 1 I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. v. 2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.

UPCOMING VALENTINE’S DAY CELEBRATION

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and we want to give our 4th and 5th graders the opportunity to celebrate if they would like to! If your student would like to participate, they are welcome to bring in Valentines for their entire homeroom class OR all of the students of the same gender in their homeroom. Teachers will provide a list of all students in their homeroom. Feel free to bring a festive Valentine box/bag from home, but this is not required!Students are also welcome to wear their pink and red shirts with uniform bottoms on Valentine’s Day too!

JUST READ

Don’t forget to have your child participate in our Quarter 3 Just Read Program. Please use this form to record your reading for this upcoming quarter!

BLACKBAUD CLASSROOM INFORMATION

Blackbaud is going to be your main source of information this year. Once you login, you will see a drop down arrow in the top left corner to choose which student’s information to look at. When you click on your 4th or 5th grade student, you will see summary information, and then when you scroll down, you will see each of your student’s classes. Each class is clickable. Please click on your student’s homeroom class to see the weekly newsletter for 4th or 5th grade. Once you are in your student’s homeroom class, it will open up the Bulletin Board. Here is where you will find the clickable link for the newsletter that will be added each week. Any important information for the week will be found here. 

To find information on each specific class, you will go back to the main page for your student and click on each individual class. Again, when you click on the desired class, it will open to that class’ Bulletin Board. Here you will find helpful information such as what to do should your student be absent. For information regarding lesson plans that will include the plans for the week, homework assignments, and any upcoming tests, quizzes, or projects, you will need to click on the “Topics” tab.

To recap:

  • Weekly newsletter is found on your student’s homeroom Bulletin Board.

  • Lesson plans, assignments, etc…are found in the specific classes Topic tab.

UPPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RESOURCES

HOUSE SYSTEM COMPETITION

Check out who is leading the competition at www.tcshouses.weebly.com. 

23/24 SCHOOL CALENDAR: Stay in the know about upcoming breaks and holidays.

DRESS CODE OVERVIEW - Check out this year’s guidelines

PRE-ABSENCE FORM - Submit pre-planned absences 5 days ahead of time for approval.

GENERAL REMINDERS

REMINDER: BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 

Would you like to celebrate your child’s birthday this year? Consider one of the following options as a way to make their day special. 

  • Purchase birthday cart treat items from our snack cart for your child’s homeroom class for $25. Email our Director of Student Life, Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org), if you would like to schedule a day. 

    • PLEASE GIVE A 2-DAY NOTICE SO PREPARATIONS CAN BE MADE

  • Send in prepackaged birthday treats purchased from a store for the homeroom class. 

  • Join your child for lunch (beginning in September) in the cafeteria. 

REMINDER: ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES

The following steps should be taken for reporting absences for 4th - 8th grade:

  • Send excuses for absences, including doctor’s notes to attendance@tcslions.org.

  • Send PRE-ABSENCE REQUESTS (family trips, etc.) to Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) via your child’s homeroom teacher. 

If your child has to miss class this year due to sickness or quarantine, check out our process below for getting your child caught up on missing work and assignments. Please also notify the nursing team to make them aware of surgeries or long-term illnesses at nurses@tcslions.org.

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 1-5 DAYS? - Have your child connect with their teachers upon their return to the classroom. We will not send makeup work home for sick absences of this length through our Return to Academics program. 

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 5+ DAYS? - Reach out to Kasey Hanson (Return to Academics Coordinator) so we can best determine a makeup plan for your child. Mrs. Hanson will help collect makeup work for you to simplify the process. 

  • NOTE: If your child is sick, we want your child to focus on resting and healing before worrying about missing assignments. Please know our teachers will work diligently to help your child catch up once they are feeling well enough to complete assignments.

(pictured l to r) Mrs. McBurnett, Mrs. Lanier, Mr. Higgins, and Mrs. Hanson

Check out our list of administrative faculty below who can help support you with all of your needs throughout this year.

UPPER ELEMENTARY ADMIN TEAM: WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

  • 4th Grade Academic Coordinator - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett can assist you with any academic-related needs for 4th grade.

  • 5th Grade Academic Coordinator - Melissa Lanier (melissa.lanier@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Lanier can assist you with any academic-related needs for 5th grade. 

  • Director of Student Life - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett oversees our special events and field trips while also handling our middle school counseling duties. 

  • Director of Student Development - Dylan Higgins (dylan.higgins@tcslions.org)

    • Mr. Higgins oversees the spiritual development of our student body while also assisting with discipline issues. 

  • Upper Elementary RTA Coordinator - Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Hanson can assist you with makeup work due to any extended absences.

 

Inside the Pride Upper Elementary School News - Volume 203

Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Upper Elementary School

Published January 14, 2024

Volume 203

 

Adam Vinson - Upper Elementary School Principal

 

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Let me know how our team is doing in keeping you informed about your child’s education this year. If you are lacking communication regarding one of your child’s classes, please let me know so I can help! adam.vinson@tcslions.org

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

UPCOMING UPPER ELEMENTARY DATES

  • January 15 - MLK Holiday - No School

  • January 18 - 100 Days of School = 100 Days Brighter (wear neon)

  • January 19 - 101 Days of School = Dress like a dalmatian/wear black and white

  • February 6 = Family Night - No Homework will be assigned

  • February 8 = House Color Day

  • February 9 = Super Bowl Dress Down - wear your favorite team apparel with uniform bottoms

  • February 14 = Valentine’s Day Dress Down - wear red or pink with uniform bottoms

LAST WEEK IN CHAPEL

Coach Settle spoke to our students from Genesis 37 and the story of Joseph. Using our memory verse for this week as well, I Corinthians 10:31, Coach Settle encouraged our students to see how Joseph lived his life in a manner of doing everything in his life for the glory of God. 

LIONS OF THE WEEK

Students who have been recognized by their teachers for setting a good example and making right choices during the school day. 

  • 4th Grade - Cameron Camper

  • 5th Grade - Zoey Christopher

THIS WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE: 

As you may notice, our 4th-8th graders memorize the same verses each year. These memory verses are selected intentionally based on the promises and truths they contain that are so relevant for our students as they learn to follow Goodness. Our hope is that these 20 verses will be remembered for years to come after being memorized for multiple years in Upper Elementary and Middle School. 

Romans 12:1-2a

v. 1 I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. v. 2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.

UPCOMING VALENTINE’S DAY CELEBRATION

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and we want to give our 4th and 5th graders the opportunity to celebrate if they would like to! If your student would like to participate, they are welcome to bring in Valentines for their entire homeroom class OR all of the students of the same gender in their homeroom. Teachers will provide a list of all students in their homeroom. Feel free to bring a festive Valentine box/bag from home, but this is not required!Students are also welcome to wear their pink and red shirts with uniform bottoms on Valentine’s Day too!

JUST READ

Don’t forget to have your child participate in our Quarter 3 Just Read Program. Please use this form to record your reading for this upcoming quarter!

BLACKBAUD CLASSROOM INFORMATION

Blackbaud is going to be your main source of information this year. Once you login, you will see a drop down arrow in the top left corner to choose which student’s information to look at. When you click on your 4th or 5th grade student, you will see summary information, and then when you scroll down, you will see each of your student’s classes. Each class is clickable. Please click on your student’s homeroom class to see the weekly newsletter for 4th or 5th grade. Once you are in your student’s homeroom class, it will open up the Bulletin Board. Here is where you will find the clickable link for the newsletter that will be added each week. Any important information for the week will be found here. 

To find information on each specific class, you will go back to the main page for your student and click on each individual class. Again, when you click on the desired class, it will open to that class’ Bulletin Board. Here you will find helpful information such as what to do should your student be absent. For information regarding lesson plans that will include the plans for the week, homework assignments, and any upcoming tests, quizzes, or projects, you will need to click on the “Topics” tab.

To recap:

  • Weekly newsletter is found on your student’s homeroom Bulletin Board.

  • Lesson plans, assignments, etc…are found in the specific classes Topic tab.

UPPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RESOURCES

HOUSE SYSTEM COMPETITION

Check out who is leading the competition at www.tcshouses.weebly.com. 

23/24 SCHOOL CALENDAR: Stay in the know about upcoming breaks and holidays.

DRESS CODE OVERVIEW - Check out this year’s guidelines

PRE-ABSENCE FORM - Submit pre-planned absences 5 days ahead of time for approval.

GENERAL REMINDERS

REMINDER: BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 

Would you like to celebrate your child’s birthday this year? Consider one of the following options as a way to make their day special. 

  • Purchase birthday cart treat items from our snack cart for your child’s homeroom class for $25. Email our Director of Student Life, Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org), if you would like to schedule a day. 

    • PLEASE GIVE A 2-DAY NOTICE SO PREPARATIONS CAN BE MADE

  • Send in prepackaged birthday treats purchased from a store for the homeroom class. 

  • Join your child for lunch (beginning in September) in the cafeteria. 

REMINDER: ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES

The following steps should be taken for reporting absences for 4th - 8th grade:

  • Send excuses for absences, including doctor’s notes to attendance@tcslions.org.

  • Send PRE-ABSENCE REQUESTS (family trips, etc.) to Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) via your child’s homeroom teacher. 

If your child has to miss class this year due to sickness or quarantine, check out our process below for getting your child caught up on missing work and assignments. Please also notify the nursing team to make them aware of surgeries or long-term illnesses at nurses@tcslions.org.

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 1-5 DAYS? - Have your child connect with their teachers upon their return to the classroom. We will not send makeup work home for sick absences of this length through our Return to Academics program. 

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 5+ DAYS? - Reach out to Kasey Hanson (Return to Academics Coordinator) so we can best determine a makeup plan for your child. Mrs. Hanson will help collect makeup work for you to simplify the process. 

  • NOTE: If your child is sick, we want your child to focus on resting and healing before worrying about missing assignments. Please know our teachers will work diligently to help your child catch up once they are feeling well enough to complete assignments.

(pictured l to r) Mrs. McBurnett, Mrs. Lanier, Mr. Higgins, and Mrs. Hanson

Check out our list of administrative faculty below who can help support you with all of your needs throughout this year.

UPPER ELEMENTARY ADMIN TEAM: WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

  • 4th Grade Academic Coordinator - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett can assist you with any academic-related needs for 4th grade.

  • 5th Grade Academic Coordinator - Melissa Lanier (melissa.lanier@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Lanier can assist you with any academic-related needs for 5th grade. 

  • Director of Student Life - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett oversees our special events and field trips while also handling our middle school counseling duties. 

  • Director of Student Development - Dylan Higgins (dylan.higgins@tcslions.org)

    • Mr. Higgins oversees the spiritual development of our student body while also assisting with discipline issues. 

  • Upper Elementary RTA Coordinator - Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Hanson can assist you with makeup work due to any extended absences.

 

Inside the Pride Upper Elementary School News - Volume 202

Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Upper Elementary School

Published January 7, 2024

Volume 202

 

Adam Vinson - Upper Elementary School Principal

 

A MESSAGE FROM MR. VINSON

We are excited about our upcoming Grandparents and Special Friends’ Day this Friday, and can’t wait to welcome your special family members and friends to our campus. While this is a Remote Learning Day for the school, our 4th and 5th graders will not have any required work that day in order to encourage their participation. We hope you will make plans for your family to enjoy this exciting day with us!

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Let me know how our team is doing in keeping you informed about your child’s education this year. If you are lacking communication regarding one of your child’s classes, please let me know so I can help! adam.vinson@tcslions.org

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

UPCOMING UPPER ELEMENTARY DATES

  • January 12 - Grandparents/Special Friends Day

  • January 15 - MLK Holiday - No School

  • January 18 - 100 Days of School = 100 Days Brighter (wear neon)

  • January 19 - 101 Days of School = Dress like a dalmatian/wear black and white

LAST WEEK IN CHAPEL

Mr. Vinson kicked off the 2024 year by challenging our students to see the importance of school, particularly in the hard months of January and February when we often see our students’ motivation to do their best decrease. There is something about these long winter months that always make Quarter 3 hard. Using the story of David and Goliath from I Samuel 17, Mr. Vinson showed our students that David’s diligence to do his best as a shepherd (killing lions and bears to protect the sheep) prepared him to face the greater giants that came later in life. While school isn’t always fun, these ordinary days do provide our students with important lessons and opportunities to hone skills that will carry them for the rest of their lives. Mr. Vinson tied the chapel lesson together with this week’s memory verse (I Cor. 10:31), reminding our students that whether they eat or drink or go to school…they ought to do it for the glory of God.

LIONS OF THE WEEK

Students who have been recognized by their teachers for setting a good example and making right choices during the school day. 

  • Returning new week

THIS WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE: 

As you may notice, our 4th-8th graders memorize the same verses each year. These memory verses are selected intentionally based on the promises and truths they contain that are so relevant for our students as they learn to follow Goodness. Our hope is that these 20 verses will be remembered for years to come after being memorized for multiple years in Upper Elementary and Middle School. 

I Corinthians 10:31

v. 31 So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God

REPORT CARDS

All grades will be updated and report cards will be posted on Monday, January 8 at 4pm.

PRIDE PERFORMERS

Congratulations to the following students who were recognized by their teachers for their hard work and consistent effort to do their very best over these past 9 weeks. 

  • 4th Grade

    • ELA - Emma Diaz

    • Math - Levi Williams

    • History - Benjamin Wallace

    • Reading - Adelaide Moss

  • 5th Grade

    • ELA - Greyson Johnston

    • Math - Abigail Davis

    • History - Kylie McAdams

    • Reading - Maddy Smith-Moultrie

JUST READ

We will be celebrating our Just Read Quarter 2 students shortly after our return from break, but we wanted to go ahead and encourage all of our 4th and 5th graders to get started with Q3’s Just Read opportunity. Please use this form to record your reading for this upcoming quarter!

BLACKBAUD CLASSROOM INFORMATION

Blackbaud is going to be your main source of information this year. Once you login, you will see a drop down arrow in the top left corner to choose which student’s information to look at. When you click on your 4th or 5th grade student, you will see summary information, and then when you scroll down, you will see each of your student’s classes. Each class is clickable. Please click on your student’s homeroom class to see the weekly newsletter for 4th or 5th grade. Once you are in your student’s homeroom class, it will open up the Bulletin Board. Here is where you will find the clickable link for the newsletter that will be added each week. Any important information for the week will be found here. 

To find information on each specific class, you will go back to the main page for your student and click on each individual class. Again, when you click on the desired class, it will open to that class’ Bulletin Board. Here you will find helpful information such as what to do should your student be absent. For information regarding lesson plans that will include the plans for the week, homework assignments, and any upcoming tests, quizzes, or projects, you will need to click on the “Topics” tab.

To recap:

  • Weekly newsletter is found on your student’s homeroom Bulletin Board.

  • Lesson plans, assignments, etc…are found in the specific classes Topic tab.

UPPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RESOURCES

HOUSE SYSTEM COMPETITION

Check out who is leading the competition at www.tcshouses.weebly.com. 

23/24 SCHOOL CALENDAR: Stay in the know about upcoming breaks and holidays.

DRESS CODE OVERVIEW - Check out this year’s guidelines

PRE-ABSENCE FORM - Submit pre-planned absences 5 days ahead of time for approval.

GENERAL REMINDERS

REMINDER: BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 

Would you like to celebrate your child’s birthday this year? Consider one of the following options as a way to make their day special. 

  • Purchase birthday cart treat items from our snack cart for your child’s homeroom class for $25. Email our Director of Student Life, Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org), if you would like to schedule a day. 

    • PLEASE GIVE A 2-DAY NOTICE SO PREPARATIONS CAN BE MADE

  • Send in prepackaged birthday treats purchased from a store for the homeroom class. 

  • Join your child for lunch (beginning in September) in the cafeteria. 

REMINDER: ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES

The following steps should be taken for reporting absences for 4th - 8th grade:

  • Send excuses for absences, including doctor’s notes to attendance@tcslions.org.

  • Send PRE-ABSENCE REQUESTS (family trips, etc.) to Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) via your child’s homeroom teacher. 

If your child has to miss class this year due to sickness or quarantine, check out our process below for getting your child caught up on missing work and assignments. Please also notify the nursing team to make them aware of surgeries or long-term illnesses at nurses@tcslions.org.

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 1-5 DAYS? - Have your child connect with their teachers upon their return to the classroom. We will not send makeup work home for sick absences of this length through our Return to Academics program. 

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 5+ DAYS? - Reach out to Kasey Hanson (Return to Academics Coordinator) so we can best determine a makeup plan for your child. Mrs. Hanson will help collect makeup work for you to simplify the process. 

  • NOTE: If your child is sick, we want your child to focus on resting and healing before worrying about missing assignments. Please know our teachers will work diligently to help your child catch up once they are feeling well enough to complete assignments.

(pictured l to r) Mrs. McBurnett, Mrs. Lanier, Mr. Higgins, and Mrs. Hanson

Check out our list of administrative faculty below who can help support you with all of your needs throughout this year.

UPPER ELEMENTARY ADMIN TEAM: WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

  • 4th Grade Academic Coordinator - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett can assist you with any academic-related needs for 4th grade.

  • 5th Grade Academic Coordinator - Melissa Lanier (melissa.lanier@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Lanier can assist you with any academic-related needs for 5th grade. 

  • Director of Student Life - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett oversees our special events and field trips while also handling our middle school counseling duties. 

  • Director of Student Development - Dylan Higgins (dylan.higgins@tcslions.org)

    • Mr. Higgins oversees the spiritual development of our student body while also assisting with discipline issues. 

  • Upper Elementary RTA Coordinator - Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Hanson can assist you with makeup work due to any extended absences.

 

Inside the Pride Upper Elementary School News - Volume 201

Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Upper Elementary School

Published December 31, 2023

Volume 201

 

Adam Vinson - Upper Elementary School Principal

 

A MESSAGE FROM MR. VINSON

Happy New Year! We are excited to see all the LORD has in store for us as we turn towards the 2024 portion of this school year. The changing of the calendar always brings excitement with renewed resolutions and hope for what the new year might hold. In Psalm 73:28, the psalmist declares that God’s presence is his good. As I think about this new year, I want to echo Moses when he told God in Exodus 33:15 that he was only interested in going where God was planning to go too. Meaning, unless the LORD goes with us, we don’t want to go. As we head into 2024, my desire is that I only take steps in the direction that the LORD is going too. I want 2024 to be filled with all kinds of good, but I also recognize, His presence with me is my ultimate good for this year. My plan is to follow Him wherever He might take me and to experience whatever He might have in store for me with a heart of contentment and gratitude as I seek to trust Him. May it be the same for your family as well. Make 2024 be filled with His good presence in your life all year long!

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Let me know how our team is doing in keeping you informed about your child’s education this year. If you are lacking communication regarding one of your child’s classes, please let me know so I can help! adam.vinson@tcslions.org

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

UPCOMING UPPER ELEMENTARY DATES

  • January 2 - Classes resume (wear your favorite non-TCS hoodie/sweatshirt)

  • January 5 - House Color Day

  • January 12 - Grandparent’s Day and Remote Learning Day

  • January 18 - 100 Days of School = 100 Days Brighter (wear neon)

  • January 19 - 101 Days of School = Dress like a dalmatian/wear black and white

LAST WEEK IN CHAPEL

Returning new week

LIONS OF THE WEEK

Students who have been recognized by their teachers for setting a good example and making right choices during the school day. 

  • Returning new week

THIS WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE: 

As you may notice, our 4th-8th graders memorize the same verses each year. These memory verses are selected intentionally based on the promises and truths they contain that are so relevant for our students as they learn to follow Goodness. Our hope is that these 20 verses will be remembered for years to come after being memorized for multiple years in Upper Elementary and Middle School. 

I Corinthians 10:31

v. 31 So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God

FAVORITE HOODIE/SWEATSHIRT DAY

On our first day back for class (Tuesday, January 2), students are allowed to wear their favorite non-TCS hoodie or sweatshirt with normal dress code pants/shorts. Show off your favorite Christmas gift as we ring in the new year!

REPORT CARDS

All grades will be updated and report cards will be posted on Monday, January 8 at 4pm.

JUST READ

We will be celebrating our Just Read Quarter 2 students shortly after our return from break, but we wanted to go ahead and encourage all of our 4th and 5th graders to get started with Q3’s Just Read opportunity. Please use this form to record your reading for this upcoming quarter!

BLACKBAUD CLASSROOM INFORMATION

Blackbaud is going to be your main source of information this year. Once you login, you will see a drop down arrow in the top left corner to choose which student’s information to look at. When you click on your 4th or 5th grade student, you will see summary information, and then when you scroll down, you will see each of your student’s classes. Each class is clickable. Please click on your student’s homeroom class to see the weekly newsletter for 4th or 5th grade. Once you are in your student’s homeroom class, it will open up the Bulletin Board. Here is where you will find the clickable link for the newsletter that will be added each week. Any important information for the week will be found here. 

To find information on each specific class, you will go back to the main page for your student and click on each individual class. Again, when you click on the desired class, it will open to that class’ Bulletin Board. Here you will find helpful information such as what to do should your student be absent. For information regarding lesson plans that will include the plans for the week, homework assignments, and any upcoming tests, quizzes, or projects, you will need to click on the “Topics” tab.

To recap:

  • Weekly newsletter is found on your student’s homeroom Bulletin Board.

  • Lesson plans, assignments, etc…are found in the specific classes Topic tab.

UPPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RESOURCES

HOUSE SYSTEM COMPETITION

Check out who is leading the competition at www.tcshouses.weebly.com. 

23/24 SCHOOL CALENDAR: Stay in the know about upcoming breaks and holidays.

DRESS CODE OVERVIEW - Check out this year’s guidelines

PRE-ABSENCE FORM - Submit pre-planned absences 5 days ahead of time for approval.

GENERAL REMINDERS

REMINDER: BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 

Would you like to celebrate your child’s birthday this year? Consider one of the following options as a way to make their day special. 

  • Purchase birthday cart treat items from our snack cart for your child’s homeroom class for $25. Email our Director of Student Life, Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org), if you would like to schedule a day. 

    • PLEASE GIVE A 2-DAY NOTICE SO PREPARATIONS CAN BE MADE

  • Send in prepackaged birthday treats purchased from a store for the homeroom class. 

  • Join your child for lunch (beginning in September) in the cafeteria. 

REMINDER: ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES

The following steps should be taken for reporting absences for 4th - 8th grade:

  • Send excuses for absences, including doctor’s notes to attendance@tcslions.org.

  • Send PRE-ABSENCE REQUESTS (family trips, etc.) to Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) via your child’s homeroom teacher. 

If your child has to miss class this year due to sickness or quarantine, check out our process below for getting your child caught up on missing work and assignments. Please also notify the nursing team to make them aware of surgeries or long-term illnesses at nurses@tcslions.org.

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 1-5 DAYS? - Have your child connect with their teachers upon their return to the classroom. We will not send makeup work home for sick absences of this length through our Return to Academics program. 

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 5+ DAYS? - Reach out to Kasey Hanson (Return to Academics Coordinator) so we can best determine a makeup plan for your child. Mrs. Hanson will help collect makeup work for you to simplify the process. 

  • NOTE: If your child is sick, we want your child to focus on resting and healing before worrying about missing assignments. Please know our teachers will work diligently to help your child catch up once they are feeling well enough to complete assignments.

(pictured l to r) Mrs. McBurnett, Mrs. Lanier, Mr. Higgins, and Mrs. Hanson

Check out our list of administrative faculty below who can help support you with all of your needs throughout this year.

UPPER ELEMENTARY ADMIN TEAM: WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

  • 4th Grade Academic Coordinator - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett can assist you with any academic-related needs for 4th grade.

  • 5th Grade Academic Coordinator - Melissa Lanier (melissa.lanier@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Lanier can assist you with any academic-related needs for 5th grade. 

  • Director of Student Life - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett oversees our special events and field trips while also handling our middle school counseling duties. 

  • Director of Student Development - Dylan Higgins (dylan.higgins@tcslions.org)

    • Mr. Higgins oversees the spiritual development of our student body while also assisting with discipline issues. 

  • Upper Elementary RTA Coordinator - Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Hanson can assist you with makeup work due to any extended absences.

 

Inside the Pride Upper Elementary School News - Volume 200

Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Upper Elementary School

Published December 17, 2023

Volume 200

 

Adam Vinson - Upper Elementary School Principal

 

A MESSAGE FROM MR. VINSON

I hope your family has a wonderful Christmas break! May the LORD bring you added peace and hope as you find ways to celebrate His coming together.

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Let me know how our team is doing in keeping you informed about your child’s education this year. If you are lacking communication regarding one of your child’s classes, please let me know so I can help! adam.vinson@tcslions.org

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

UPCOMING UPPER ELEMENTARY DATES

  • Returning in January

LAST WEEK IN CHAPEL

Coach Settle spoke to our students from John 1:14 and shared the good news of the coming of Jesus. He also presented the hope we enjoy as Christians with the coming return of Jesus as well.

LIONS OF THE WEEK

Students who have been recognized by their teachers for setting a good example and making right choices during the school day. 

  • 4th Grade - Addison Judd

  • 5th Grade - Maddy Moultrie

THIS WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE: 

  • Returning in January!

REPORT CARDS

All grades will be updated and report cards will be posted on Monday, January 8 at 4pm.

BLACKBAUD CLASSROOM INFORMATION

Blackbaud is going to be your main source of information this year. Once you login, you will see a drop down arrow in the top left corner to choose which student’s information to look at. When you click on your 4th or 5th grade student, you will see summary information, and then when you scroll down, you will see each of your student’s classes. Each class is clickable. Please click on your student’s homeroom class to see the weekly newsletter for 4th or 5th grade. Once you are in your student’s homeroom class, it will open up the Bulletin Board. Here is where you will find the clickable link for the newsletter that will be added each week. Any important information for the week will be found here. 

To find information on each specific class, you will go back to the main page for your student and click on each individual class. Again, when you click on the desired class, it will open to that class’ Bulletin Board. Here you will find helpful information such as what to do should your student be absent. For information regarding lesson plans that will include the plans for the week, homework assignments, and any upcoming tests, quizzes, or projects, you will need to click on the “Topics” tab.

To recap:

  • Weekly newsletter is found on your student’s homeroom Bulletin Board.

  • Lesson plans, assignments, etc…are found in the specific classes Topic tab.

UPPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RESOURCES

HOUSE SYSTEM COMPETITION

Check out who is leading the competition at www.tcshouses.weebly.com. 

23/24 SCHOOL CALENDAR: Stay in the know about upcoming breaks and holidays.

DRESS CODE OVERVIEW - Check out this year’s guidelines

PRE-ABSENCE FORM - Submit pre-planned absences 5 days ahead of time for approval.

GENERAL REMINDERS

REMINDER: BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 

Would you like to celebrate your child’s birthday this year? Consider one of the following options as a way to make their day special. 

  • Purchase birthday cart treat items from our snack cart for your child’s homeroom class for $25. Email our Director of Student Life, Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org), if you would like to schedule a day. 

    • PLEASE GIVE A 2-DAY NOTICE SO PREPARATIONS CAN BE MADE

  • Send in prepackaged birthday treats purchased from a store for the homeroom class. 

  • Join your child for lunch (beginning in September) in the cafeteria. 

REMINDER: ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES

The following steps should be taken for reporting absences for 4th - 8th grade:

  • Send excuses for absences, including doctor’s notes to attendance@tcslions.org.

  • Send PRE-ABSENCE REQUESTS (family trips, etc.) to Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) via your child’s homeroom teacher. 

If your child has to miss class this year due to sickness or quarantine, check out our process below for getting your child caught up on missing work and assignments. Please also notify the nursing team to make them aware of surgeries or long-term illnesses at nurses@tcslions.org.

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 1-5 DAYS? - Have your child connect with their teachers upon their return to the classroom. We will not send makeup work home for sick absences of this length through our Return to Academics program. 

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 5+ DAYS? - Reach out to Kasey Hanson (Return to Academics Coordinator) so we can best determine a makeup plan for your child. Mrs. Hanson will help collect makeup work for you to simplify the process. 

  • NOTE: If your child is sick, we want your child to focus on resting and healing before worrying about missing assignments. Please know our teachers will work diligently to help your child catch up once they are feeling well enough to complete assignments.

(pictured l to r) Mrs. McBurnett, Mrs. Lanier, Mr. Higgins, and Mrs. Hanson

Check out our list of administrative faculty below who can help support you with all of your needs throughout this year.

UPPER ELEMENTARY ADMIN TEAM: WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

  • 4th Grade Academic Coordinator - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett can assist you with any academic-related needs for 4th grade.

  • 5th Grade Academic Coordinator - Melissa Lanier (melissa.lanier@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Lanier can assist you with any academic-related needs for 5th grade. 

  • Director of Student Life - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett oversees our special events and field trips while also handling our middle school counseling duties. 

  • Director of Student Development - Dylan Higgins (dylan.higgins@tcslions.org)

    • Mr. Higgins oversees the spiritual development of our student body while also assisting with discipline issues. 

  • Upper Elementary RTA Coordinator - Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Hanson can assist you with makeup work due to any extended absences.

 

Inside the Pride Upper Elementary School News - Volume 199

Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Upper Elementary School

Published December 10, 2023

Volume 199

 

Adam Vinson - Upper Elementary School Principal

 

A MESSAGE FROM MR. VINSON

We have reached the final week of the semester and Christmas Break is almost here! We are excited about these final 4 days as we wrap up the academic portion of the semester while taking time to celebrate with Christmas parties and celebrations as well. Be sure to check out all of the information this week to help you navigate these next 4 days.

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Let me know how our team is doing in keeping you informed about your child’s education this year. If you are lacking communication regarding one of your child’s classes, please let me know so I can help! adam.vinson@tcslions.org

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

UPCOMING UPPER ELEMENTARY DATES

  • Dec 15 - Remote Learning Day

LAST WEEK IN CHAPEL

Dr. Anthony spoke to our students from Matthew 25 and the responsibility we have to treat others in a way that honors Jesus by viewing each other as image bearers of God. Using the illustration that Jesus gave for His return, that our treatment of others would be the measure used to evaluate our treatment of Him, Dr. Anthony encouraged our students to seek to love and serve those around them as a means of loving and serving Jesus. 

LIONS OF THE WEEK

Students who have been recognized by their teachers for setting a good example and making right choices during the school day. 

  • 4th Grade -Brooklyn Cobb

  • 5th Grade - Greyson Johnston

THIS WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE: 

As you may notice, our 4th-8th graders memorize the same verses each year. These memory verses are selected intentionally based on the promises and truths they contain that are so relevant for our students as they learn to follow Jesus. Our hope is that these 20 verses will be remembered for years to come after being memorized for multiple years in Upper Elementary and Middle School.

John 10:10

v. 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. 

I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.

THE HOLLY JOLLY TROLLEY CONTINUES

Don’t forget, you can send in money each day for your child to enjoy a special Christmas treat during lunch. All proceeds will go to help offset the cost of our upcoming middle school overnight experiences. We appreciate the support!

REMINDER

Our dress down period of pajama pants and Crocs has finished. Please note the guidelines for dressing down this week. Students who choose to dress down are required to follow the daily theme and guidelines below.

REPORT CARDS

All grades will be updated and report cards will be posted on Monday, January 8 at 4pm.

DRESS CODE GUIDELINES FOR CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN WEEK

  • No spaghetti straps, tank tops, or tops with low V neck

  • Holes/rips/tears in jeans should not be above the knee  

  • Mesh/see-thru tops should not be worn unless there is a full coverage top underneath it.  

  • Shirts should touch the top of the pants, shorts, skirt, etc - if you lift your arms and I can see your skin it is too short.

  • Shorts must be no more than 5 inches above the knee (about the length of an index card). 

  • Skirts must be no more than 2 inches above the knee (unless full leggings are worn underneath). 

  • Hats may be worn all week. 

  • Boys shirts must stay buttoned. 

  • Full spandex body suits are not allowed. 

  • Leggings are not allowed.

  • Shoes can be open toe and open back.

CHRISTMAS PARTY AND MOVIE DAY

On Thursday, December 14, our Upper Elementary students will have breakfast Christmas parties with their classes and then will be transported over to NCG Theater for a special Christmas movie as well!

JUST READ QUARTER 2 

Your child has 1 more week to complete their reading requirement. Check out the information below and encourage your child to participate!

ALL FORMS ARE DUE MONDAY, DECEMBER 11

Students should use the form below to record their reading for Q2.. Completed forms should be returned to your child’s homeroom teacher at the end of Quarter 2, with a prize coming from Mr. Vinson to all who complete the challenge!

Quarter 2 Just Read Form

BLACKBAUD CLASSROOM INFORMATION

Blackbaud is going to be your main source of information this year. Once you login, you will see a drop down arrow in the top left corner to choose which student’s information to look at. When you click on your 4th or 5th grade student, you will see summary information, and then when you scroll down, you will see each of your student’s classes. Each class is clickable. Please click on your student’s homeroom class to see the weekly newsletter for 4th or 5th grade. Once you are in your student’s homeroom class, it will open up the Bulletin Board. Here is where you will find the clickable link for the newsletter that will be added each week. Any important information for the week will be found here. 

To find information on each specific class, you will go back to the main page for your student and click on each individual class. Again, when you click on the desired class, it will open to that class’ Bulletin Board. Here you will find helpful information such as what to do should your student be absent. For information regarding lesson plans that will include the plans for the week, homework assignments, and any upcoming tests, quizzes, or projects, you will need to click on the “Topics” tab.

To recap:

  • Weekly newsletter is found on your student’s homeroom Bulletin Board.

  • Lesson plans, assignments, etc…are found in the specific classes Topic tab.

UPPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RESOURCES

HOUSE SYSTEM COMPETITION

Check out who is leading the competition at www.tcshouses.weebly.com. 

23/24 SCHOOL CALENDAR: Stay in the know about upcoming breaks and holidays.

DRESS CODE OVERVIEW - Check out this year’s guidelines

PRE-ABSENCE FORM - Submit pre-planned absences 5 days ahead of time for approval.

GENERAL REMINDERS

REMINDER: BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 

Would you like to celebrate your child’s birthday this year? Consider one of the following options as a way to make their day special. 

  • Purchase birthday cart treat items from our snack cart for your child’s homeroom class for $25. Email our Director of Student Life, Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org), if you would like to schedule a day. 

    • PLEASE GIVE A 2-DAY NOTICE SO PREPARATIONS CAN BE MADE

  • Send in prepackaged birthday treats purchased from a store for the homeroom class. 

  • Join your child for lunch (beginning in September) in the cafeteria. 

REMINDER: ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES

The following steps should be taken for reporting absences for 4th - 8th grade:

  • Send excuses for absences, including doctor’s notes to attendance@tcslions.org.

  • Send PRE-ABSENCE REQUESTS (family trips, etc.) to Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) via your child’s homeroom teacher. 

If your child has to miss class this year due to sickness or quarantine, check out our process below for getting your child caught up on missing work and assignments. Please also notify the nursing team to make them aware of surgeries or long-term illnesses at nurses@tcslions.org.

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 1-5 DAYS? - Have your child connect with their teachers upon their return to the classroom. We will not send makeup work home for sick absences of this length through our Return to Academics program. 

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 5+ DAYS? - Reach out to Kasey Hanson (Return to Academics Coordinator) so we can best determine a makeup plan for your child. Mrs. Hanson will help collect makeup work for you to simplify the process. 

  • NOTE: If your child is sick, we want your child to focus on resting and healing before worrying about missing assignments. Please know our teachers will work diligently to help your child catch up once they are feeling well enough to complete assignments.

(pictured l to r) Mrs. McBurnett, Mrs. Lanier, Mr. Higgins, and Mrs. Hanson

Check out our list of administrative faculty below who can help support you with all of your needs throughout this year.

UPPER ELEMENTARY ADMIN TEAM: WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

  • 4th Grade Academic Coordinator - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett can assist you with any academic-related needs for 4th grade.

  • 5th Grade Academic Coordinator - Melissa Lanier (melissa.lanier@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Lanier can assist you with any academic-related needs for 5th grade. 

  • Director of Student Life - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett oversees our special events and field trips while also handling our middle school counseling duties. 

  • Director of Student Development - Dylan Higgins (dylan.higgins@tcslions.org)

    • Mr. Higgins oversees the spiritual development of our student body while also assisting with discipline issues. 

  • Upper Elementary RTA Coordinator - Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Hanson can assist you with makeup work due to any extended absences.

 

Inside the Pride Upper Elementary School News - Volume 198

Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Upper Elementary School

Published December 3, 2023

Volume 198

 

Adam Vinson - Upper Elementary School Principal

 

A MESSAGE FROM MR. VINSON

We are counting down the days until Christmas Break, and we are enjoying the celebration of each day along the way. It’s a busy season with lots going on, so don’t hesitate to reach out to me if you have any specific questions about where your child needs to be throughout the course of this month. In addition, let me encourage you to find ways to celebrate this special season together as a family. Yes, the season is busy, but let us remember the hope that this season reminds us of. Not only do we worship our King for coming at Christmas, we anticipate His triumphant return as well. I’m including this link to one of my favorite Christmas songs for you to check out in case you have never heard it. Let it encourage you to remain hopeful as we wait for Him!

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Let me know how our team is doing in keeping you informed about your child’s education this year. If you are lacking communication regarding one of your child’s classes, please let me know so I can help! adam.vinson@tcslions.org

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

UPCOMING UPPER ELEMENTARY DATES

  • Dec 4 - House Color Day

  • Dec 4 - Recorders/Orchestra Concert

  • Dec 5 - Band Concert

  • Dec 7 - Chorus Concert

  • Dec 14 - UE Christmas Parties and Christmas Movie Day at NCG Theatre

  • Dec 15 - Remote Learning Day

LAST WEEK IN CHAPEL

This week in chapel, Mrs. Peters shared part two of the Parable of the Good Samaritan with our Upper Elementary students.  Mrs. Peters reviewed the Shema and the Ten Commandments, and in this we learned that the first four commandments are about loving God, and the last six commandments are about loving others. So, loving "the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself,” (Luke 10:27) is a summation of the whole law.  In the parable, we discovered that the scribe believed that he loved God well, but was proved wrong because he did not love others as he should. This truth was confirmed after reading 1 John 4 together.  Our prayer is that we will love others as we should because the love of the Father is in us.

LIONS OF THE WEEK

Students who have been recognized by their teachers for setting a good example and making right choices during the school day. 

  • 4th Grade - Adalyn Emory 

  • 5th Grade - Alli Leonard

THIS WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE: 

As you may notice, our 4th-8th graders memorize the same verses each year. These memory verses are selected intentionally based on the promises and truths they contain that are so relevant for our students as they learn to follow Jesus. Our hope is that these 20 verses will be remembered for years to come after being memorized for multiple years in Upper Elementary and Middle School.

Matthew 7:12 - The Golden Rule

v. 12 So whatever you wish that others would do to you, 

do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.

DECEMBER DRESS DOWN

Did you miss the chance for your child to dress down for these two weeks? No problem! Your child can still join in on the action by paying $15 to wear sweatpants/pajama pants and/or Crocs for this week only! Students are required to wear TCS approved dress code shirts/spiritwear. Email Mrs. McBurnett directly if you would like to purchase this dress down option. Final purchases are due by Monday morning. All money raised will be used to offset the cost of our middle school overnight experiences. 

UPDATE: PROGRESS LEARNING MID-YEAR TESTING

Our students were able to complete their mid-year progress testing for both Math and ELA, and we were pleased with the overall results of our students. Our teachers are doing a great job in preparing each of your children for what lies ahead. Please note if we notice a concern with your child’s progress, we will plan to reach out directly to let you know, otherwise, know that our students are doing a great job, and we look forward to seeing how they continue to grow and learn next semester. 

THE HOLLY JOLLY TROLLEY CONTINUES

Don’t forget, you can send in money each day for your child to enjoy a special Christmas treat during lunch. All proceeds will go to help offset the cost of our upcoming middle school overnight experiences. We appreciate the support!

DRESS CODE GUIDELINES FOR CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN WEEK

  • No spaghetti straps, tank tops, or tops with low V neck

  • Holes/rips/tears in jeans should not be above the knee  

  • Mesh/see-thru tops should not be worn unless there is a full coverage top underneath it.  

  • Shirts should touch the top of the pants, shorts, skirt, etc - if you lift your arms and I can see your skin it is too short.

  • Shorts must be no more than 5 inches above the knee (about the length of an index card). 

  • Skirts must be no more than 2 inches above the knee (unless full leggings are worn underneath). 

  • Hats may be worn all week. 

  • Boys shirts must stay buttoned. 

  • Full spandex body suits are not allowed. 

  • Leggings are not allowed.

  • Shoes can be open toe and open back.

CHRISTMAS PARTY AND MOVIE DAY

On Thursday, December 14, our Upper Elementary students will have breakfast Christmas parties with their classes and then will be transported over to NCG Theater for a special Christmas movie as well! Be sure to reference the communication sent by Mrs. McBurnett regarding attending (and purchasing popcorn). You may also attend the movie with your child, and they may be checked out at lunch time (after the movie) if you choose as well. 

ALL FORMS ARE DUE THIS MONDAY!

JUST READ QUARTER 2 

Your child has 1 more week to complete their reading requirement. Check out the information below and encourage your child to participate!

ALL FORMS ARE DUE MONDAY, DECEMBER 11

Students should use the form below to record their reading for Q2.. Completed forms should be returned to your child’s homeroom teacher at the end of Quarter 2, with a prize coming from Mr. Vinson to all who complete the challenge!

Quarter 2 Just Read Form

BLACKBAUD CLASSROOM INFORMATION

Blackbaud is going to be your main source of information this year. Once you login, you will see a drop down arrow in the top left corner to choose which student’s information to look at. When you click on your 4th or 5th grade student, you will see summary information, and then when you scroll down, you will see each of your student’s classes. Each class is clickable. Please click on your student’s homeroom class to see the weekly newsletter for 4th or 5th grade. Once you are in your student’s homeroom class, it will open up the Bulletin Board. Here is where you will find the clickable link for the newsletter that will be added each week. Any important information for the week will be found here. 

To find information on each specific class, you will go back to the main page for your student and click on each individual class. Again, when you click on the desired class, it will open to that class’ Bulletin Board. Here you will find helpful information such as what to do should your student be absent. For information regarding lesson plans that will include the plans for the week, homework assignments, and any upcoming tests, quizzes, or projects, you will need to click on the “Topics” tab.

To recap:

  • Weekly newsletter is found on your student’s homeroom Bulletin Board.

  • Lesson plans, assignments, etc…are found in the specific classes Topic tab.

UPPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RESOURCES

HOUSE SYSTEM COMPETITION

Check out who is leading the competition at www.tcshouses.weebly.com. 

23/24 SCHOOL CALENDAR: Stay in the know about upcoming breaks and holidays.

DRESS CODE OVERVIEW - Check out this year’s guidelines

PRE-ABSENCE FORM - Submit pre-planned absences 5 days ahead of time for approval.

GENERAL REMINDERS

REMINDER: BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 

Would you like to celebrate your child’s birthday this year? Consider one of the following options as a way to make their day special. 

  • Purchase birthday cart treat items from our snack cart for your child’s homeroom class for $25. Email our Director of Student Life, Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org), if you would like to schedule a day. 

    • PLEASE GIVE A 2-DAY NOTICE SO PREPARATIONS CAN BE MADE

  • Send in prepackaged birthday treats purchased from a store for the homeroom class. 

  • Join your child for lunch (beginning in September) in the cafeteria. 

REMINDER: ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES

The following steps should be taken for reporting absences for 4th - 8th grade:

  • Send excuses for absences, including doctor’s notes to attendance@tcslions.org.

  • Send PRE-ABSENCE REQUESTS (family trips, etc.) to Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) via your child’s homeroom teacher. 

If your child has to miss class this year due to sickness or quarantine, check out our process below for getting your child caught up on missing work and assignments. Please also notify the nursing team to make them aware of surgeries or long-term illnesses at nurses@tcslions.org.

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 1-5 DAYS? - Have your child connect with their teachers upon their return to the classroom. We will not send makeup work home for sick absences of this length through our Return to Academics program. 

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 5+ DAYS? - Reach out to Kasey Hanson (Return to Academics Coordinator) so we can best determine a makeup plan for your child. Mrs. Hanson will help collect makeup work for you to simplify the process. 

  • NOTE: If your child is sick, we want your child to focus on resting and healing before worrying about missing assignments. Please know our teachers will work diligently to help your child catch up once they are feeling well enough to complete assignments.

(pictured l to r) Mrs. McBurnett, Mrs. Lanier, Mr. Higgins, and Mrs. Hanson

Check out our list of administrative faculty below who can help support you with all of your needs throughout this year.

UPPER ELEMENTARY ADMIN TEAM: WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

  • 4th Grade Academic Coordinator - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett can assist you with any academic-related needs for 4th grade.

  • 5th Grade Academic Coordinator - Melissa Lanier (melissa.lanier@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Lanier can assist you with any academic-related needs for 5th grade. 

  • Director of Student Life - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett oversees our special events and field trips while also handling our middle school counseling duties. 

  • Director of Student Development - Dylan Higgins (dylan.higgins@tcslions.org)

    • Mr. Higgins oversees the spiritual development of our student body while also assisting with discipline issues. 

  • Upper Elementary RTA Coordinator - Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Hanson can assist you with makeup work due to any extended absences.

 

Inside the Pride Upper Elementary School News - Volume 197

Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Upper Elementary School

Published November 26, 2023

Volume 197

 

Adam Vinson - Upper Elementary School Principal

 

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Let me know how our team is doing in keeping you informed about your child’s education this year. If you are lacking communication regarding one of your child’s classes, please let me know so I can help! adam.vinson@tcslions.org

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

UPCOMING UPPER ELEMENTARY DATES

  • Nov 27 - Math Progress Learning Testing

  • Nov 30 - ELA Progress Learning Testing

  • Dec 4 - Recorders/Orchestra Concert

  • Dec 5 - Band Concert

  • Dec 7 - Chorus Concert

  • Dec 15 - Remote Learning Day

LAST WEEK IN CHAPEL

Coach Settle spoke to our students from Matthew 15:10 regarding what truly defiles the human body. Using the instructions given by Jesus, Coach Settle reminded our students that it isn’t food that actually defiles us, but instead the influences we allow to shape our hearts and minds. Students were challenged with the question, “What are you allowing to impact your heart and mind?” Students were encouraged to guard their intake in order to protect their thoughts and actions.

LIONS OF THE WEEK

Students who have been recognized by their teachers for setting a good example and making right choices during the school day. 

  • 4th Grade - Grisham Boone

  • 5th Grade - Mason Campanile

THIS WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE: 

As you may notice, our 4th-8th graders memorize the same verses each year. These memory verses are selected intentionally based on the promises and truths they contain that are so relevant for our students as they learn to follow Jesus. Our hope is that these 20 verses will be remembered for years to come after being memorized for multiple years in Upper Elementary and Middle School.

Psalm 100:4-5

v. 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! v. 5 For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.

DECEMBER DRESS DOWN (WITH A FEW DAYS IN NOVEMBER)

Students can pay $25 to wear sweatpants/pajama pants and/or Crocs for the first 2 weeks we are back from Thanksgiving Break (Nov 27-Dec 8). Students are required to wear TCS approved dress code shirts/spiritwear. Use the form sent by Mrs. McBurnett to purchase this dress down option. All money raised will be used to offset the cost of our middle school overnight experiences.

PROGRESS LEARNING MID-YEAR TESTING

When we return from Thanksgiving Break, our students will engage in their mid-year Progress Learning testing. These tests (Math and English) are designed to measure your child’s learning growth from the beginning of the school year. These same tests will be administered at the end of the year as well to provide additional learning data for your child’s overall performance. Please encourage your child to do their very best on these upcoming tests. Our Math Progress Learning tests will begin on Monday, November 27 (our first day back from break) and our English Progress Learning tests will begin on Thursday, November 30.

CHRISTMAS PARTY AND MOVIE DAY

On Thursday, December 14 our Upper Elementary students will have breakfast Christmas parties with their classes and then will be transported over to NCG Theater for a special Christmas movie as well! Students will have the option to purchase popcorn (see Mrs. McBurnett’s email coming after Thanksgiving Break). You may attend the movie with your child, and they may be checked out at lunch time (after the movie) if you choose as well.

JUST READ QUARTER 2 

With Thanksgiving Break coming up soon, your child will have a great opportunity to complete the Q2 Just Read requirements. Check out the information below and encourage your child to participate!

ALL FORMS ARE DUE MONDAY, DECEMBER 11

Students should use the form below to record their reading for Q2.. Completed forms should be returned to your child’s homeroom teacher at the end of Quarter 2, with a prize coming from Mr. Vinson to all who complete the challenge!

Quarter 2 Just Read Form

UPPER ELEMENTARY CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

As we look towards the month of December, here is a quick preview of some of our annual middle school traditions for Christmas that will be coming very soon!

  • “Holly Jolly Trolly” - Each year Mr. Vinson provides a special snack cart full of holiday treats for our upper elementary students to enjoy. Students should bring $1-2 each day they want to purchase something at lunch. More details to come!

  • Dress Down December - To help raise funds for our various middle school overnight experiences, we offer our upper elementary students the opportunity to wear Crocs and/or pajama pants/sweatpants for the month of December. More details to come on how to participate!

BLACKBAUD CLASSROOM INFORMATION

Blackbaud is going to be your main source of information this year. Once you login, you will see a drop down arrow in the top left corner to choose which student’s information to look at. When you click on your 4th or 5th grade student, you will see summary information, and then when you scroll down, you will see each of your student’s classes. Each class is clickable. Please click on your student’s homeroom class to see the weekly newsletter for 4th or 5th grade. Once you are in your student’s homeroom class, it will open up the Bulletin Board. Here is where you will find the clickable link for the newsletter that will be added each week. Any important information for the week will be found here. 

To find information on each specific class, you will go back to the main page for your student and click on each individual class. Again, when you click on the desired class, it will open to that class’ Bulletin Board. Here you will find helpful information such as what to do should your student be absent. For information regarding lesson plans that will include the plans for the week, homework assignments, and any upcoming tests, quizzes, or projects, you will need to click on the “Topics” tab.

To recap:

  • Weekly newsletter is found on your student’s homeroom Bulletin Board.

  • Lesson plans, assignments, etc…are found in the specific classes Topic tab.

UPPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RESOURCES

HOUSE SYSTEM COMPETITION

Check out who is leading the competition at www.tcshouses.weebly.com. 

23/24 SCHOOL CALENDAR: Stay in the know about upcoming breaks and holidays.

DRESS CODE OVERVIEW - Check out this year’s guidelines

PRE-ABSENCE FORM - Submit pre-planned absences 5 days ahead of time for approval.

GENERAL REMINDERS

REMINDER: BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 

Would you like to celebrate your child’s birthday this year? Consider one of the following options as a way to make their day special. 

  • Purchase birthday cart treat items from our snack cart for your child’s homeroom class for $25. Email our Director of Student Life, Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org), if you would like to schedule a day. 

    • PLEASE GIVE A 2-DAY NOTICE SO PREPARATIONS CAN BE MADE

  • Send in prepackaged birthday treats purchased from a store for the homeroom class. 

  • Join your child for lunch (beginning in September) in the cafeteria. 

REMINDER: ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES

The following steps should be taken for reporting absences for 4th - 8th grade:

  • Send excuses for absences, including doctor’s notes to attendance@tcslions.org.

  • Send PRE-ABSENCE REQUESTS (family trips, etc.) to Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) via your child’s homeroom teacher. 

If your child has to miss class this year due to sickness or quarantine, check out our process below for getting your child caught up on missing work and assignments. Please also notify the nursing team to make them aware of surgeries or long-term illnesses at nurses@tcslions.org.

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 1-5 DAYS? - Have your child connect with their teachers upon their return to the classroom. We will not send makeup work home for sick absences of this length through our Return to Academics program. 

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 5+ DAYS? - Reach out to Kasey Hanson (Return to Academics Coordinator) so we can best determine a makeup plan for your child. Mrs. Hanson will help collect makeup work for you to simplify the process. 

  • NOTE: If your child is sick, we want your child to focus on resting and healing before worrying about missing assignments. Please know our teachers will work diligently to help your child catch up once they are feeling well enough to complete assignments.

(pictured l to r) Mrs. McBurnett, Mrs. Lanier, Mr. Higgins, and Mrs. Hanson

Check out our list of administrative faculty below who can help support you with all of your needs throughout this year.

UPPER ELEMENTARY ADMIN TEAM: WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

  • 4th Grade Academic Coordinator - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett can assist you with any academic-related needs for 4th grade.

  • 5th Grade Academic Coordinator - Melissa Lanier (melissa.lanier@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Lanier can assist you with any academic-related needs for 5th grade. 

  • Director of Student Life - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett oversees our special events and field trips while also handling our middle school counseling duties. 

  • Director of Student Development - Dylan Higgins (dylan.higgins@tcslions.org)

    • Mr. Higgins oversees the spiritual development of our student body while also assisting with discipline issues. 

  • Upper Elementary RTA Coordinator - Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Hanson can assist you with makeup work due to any extended absences.

 

Inside the Pride Upper Elementary School News - Volume 196

Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Upper Elementary School

Published November 19, 2023

Volume 196

 

Adam Vinson - Upper Elementary School Principal

 

A MESSAGE FROM MR. VINSON

I hope that each of you has a wonderful Thanksgiving week! May you and your family find countless reasons to enter the courts of the LORD with praise and thanksgiving towards Him.

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Let me know how our team is doing in keeping you informed about your child’s education this year. If you are lacking communication regarding one of your child’s classes, please let me know so I can help! adam.vinson@tcslions.org

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

UPCOMING UPPER ELEMENTARY DATES

  • Nov 27 - Math Progress Learning Testing

  • Nov 30 - ELA Progress Learning Testing

  • Dec 4 - Recorders/Orchestra Concert

  • Dec 5 - Band Concert

  • Dec 7 - Chorus Concert

  • Dec 15 - Remote Learning Day

LAST WEEK IN CHAPEL

Coach Settle spoke to our students from Matthew 15:10 regarding what truly defiles the human body. Using the instructions given by Jesus, Coach Settle reminded our students that it isn’t food that actually defiles us, but instead the influences we allow to shape our hearts and minds. Students were challenged with the question, “What are you allowing to impact your heart and mind?” Students were encouraged to guard their intake in order to protect their thoughts and actions.

LIONS OF THE WEEK

Students who have been recognized by their teachers for setting a good example and making right choices during the school day. 

  • 4th Grade - Grisham Boone

  • 5th Grade - Mason Campanile

THIS WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE: 

As you may notice, our 4th-8th graders memorize the same verses each year. These memory verses are selected intentionally based on the promises and truths they contain that are so relevant for our students as they learn to follow Jesus. Our hope is that these 20 verses will be remembered for years to come after being memorized for multiple years in Upper Elementary and Middle School.

Psalm 100:4-5

v. 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! v. 5 For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.

DECEMBER DRESS DOWN (WITH A FEW DAYS IN NOVEMBER)

Students can pay $25 to wear sweatpants/pajama pants and/or Crocs for the first 2 weeks we are back from Thanksgiving Break (Nov 27-Dec 8). Students are required to wear TCS approved dress code shirts/spiritwear. Use the form sent by Mrs. McBurnett to purchase this dress down option. All money raised will be used to offset the cost of our middle school overnight experiences.

PROGRESS LEARNING MID-YEAR TESTING

When we return from Thanksgiving Break, our students will engage in their mid-year Progress Learning testing. These tests (Math and English) are designed to measure your child’s learning growth from the beginning of the school year. These same tests will be administered at the end of the year as well to provide additional learning data for your child’s overall performance. Please encourage your child to do their very best on these upcoming tests. Our Math Progress Learning tests will begin on Monday, November 27 (our first day back from break) and our English Progress Learning tests will begin on Thursday, November 30.

CHRISTMAS PARTY AND MOVIE DAY

On Thursday, December 14 our Upper Elementary students will have breakfast Christmas parties with their classes and then will be transported over to NCG Theater for a special Christmas movie as well! Students will have the option to purchase popcorn (see Mrs. McBurnett’s email coming after Thanksgiving Break). You may attend the movie with your child, and they may be checked out at lunch time (after the movie) if you choose as well.

JUST READ QUARTER 2 

With Thanksgiving Break coming up soon, your child will have a great opportunity to complete the Q2 Just Read requirements. Check out the information below and encourage your child to participate!

ALL FORMS ARE DUE MONDAY, DECEMBER 11

Students should use the form below to record their reading for Q2.. Completed forms should be returned to your child’s homeroom teacher at the end of Quarter 2, with a prize coming from Mr. Vinson to all who complete the challenge!

Quarter 2 Just Read Form

UPPER ELEMENTARY CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

As we look towards the month of December, here is a quick preview of some of our annual middle school traditions for Christmas that will be coming very soon!

  • “Holly Jolly Trolly” - Each year Mr. Vinson provides a special snack cart full of holiday treats for our upper elementary students to enjoy. Students should bring $1-2 each day they want to purchase something at lunch. More details to come!

  • Dress Down December - To help raise funds for our various middle school overnight experiences, we offer our upper elementary students the opportunity to wear Crocs and/or pajama pants/sweatpants for the month of December. More details to come on how to participate!

BLACKBAUD CLASSROOM INFORMATION

Blackbaud is going to be your main source of information this year. Once you login, you will see a drop down arrow in the top left corner to choose which student’s information to look at. When you click on your 4th or 5th grade student, you will see summary information, and then when you scroll down, you will see each of your student’s classes. Each class is clickable. Please click on your student’s homeroom class to see the weekly newsletter for 4th or 5th grade. Once you are in your student’s homeroom class, it will open up the Bulletin Board. Here is where you will find the clickable link for the newsletter that will be added each week. Any important information for the week will be found here. 

To find information on each specific class, you will go back to the main page for your student and click on each individual class. Again, when you click on the desired class, it will open to that class’ Bulletin Board. Here you will find helpful information such as what to do should your student be absent. For information regarding lesson plans that will include the plans for the week, homework assignments, and any upcoming tests, quizzes, or projects, you will need to click on the “Topics” tab.

To recap:

  • Weekly newsletter is found on your student’s homeroom Bulletin Board.

  • Lesson plans, assignments, etc…are found in the specific classes Topic tab.

UPPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RESOURCES

HOUSE SYSTEM COMPETITION

Check out who is leading the competition at www.tcshouses.weebly.com. 

23/24 SCHOOL CALENDAR: Stay in the know about upcoming breaks and holidays.

DRESS CODE OVERVIEW - Check out this year’s guidelines

PRE-ABSENCE FORM - Submit pre-planned absences 5 days ahead of time for approval.

GENERAL REMINDERS

REMINDER: BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 

Would you like to celebrate your child’s birthday this year? Consider one of the following options as a way to make their day special. 

  • Purchase birthday cart treat items from our snack cart for your child’s homeroom class for $25. Email our Director of Student Life, Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org), if you would like to schedule a day. 

    • PLEASE GIVE A 2-DAY NOTICE SO PREPARATIONS CAN BE MADE

  • Send in prepackaged birthday treats purchased from a store for the homeroom class. 

  • Join your child for lunch (beginning in September) in the cafeteria. 

REMINDER: ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES

The following steps should be taken for reporting absences for 4th - 8th grade:

  • Send excuses for absences, including doctor’s notes to attendance@tcslions.org.

  • Send PRE-ABSENCE REQUESTS (family trips, etc.) to Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) via your child’s homeroom teacher. 

If your child has to miss class this year due to sickness or quarantine, check out our process below for getting your child caught up on missing work and assignments. Please also notify the nursing team to make them aware of surgeries or long-term illnesses at nurses@tcslions.org.

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 1-5 DAYS? - Have your child connect with their teachers upon their return to the classroom. We will not send makeup work home for sick absences of this length through our Return to Academics program. 

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 5+ DAYS? - Reach out to Kasey Hanson (Return to Academics Coordinator) so we can best determine a makeup plan for your child. Mrs. Hanson will help collect makeup work for you to simplify the process. 

  • NOTE: If your child is sick, we want your child to focus on resting and healing before worrying about missing assignments. Please know our teachers will work diligently to help your child catch up once they are feeling well enough to complete assignments.

(pictured l to r) Mrs. McBurnett, Mrs. Lanier, Mr. Higgins, and Mrs. Hanson

Check out our list of administrative faculty below who can help support you with all of your needs throughout this year.

UPPER ELEMENTARY ADMIN TEAM: WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

  • 4th Grade Academic Coordinator - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett can assist you with any academic-related needs for 4th grade.

  • 5th Grade Academic Coordinator - Melissa Lanier (melissa.lanier@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Lanier can assist you with any academic-related needs for 5th grade. 

  • Director of Student Life - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett oversees our special events and field trips while also handling our middle school counseling duties. 

  • Director of Student Development - Dylan Higgins (dylan.higgins@tcslions.org)

    • Mr. Higgins oversees the spiritual development of our student body while also assisting with discipline issues. 

  • Upper Elementary RTA Coordinator - Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Hanson can assist you with makeup work due to any extended absences.

 

Inside the Pride Upper Elementary School News - Volume 195

Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Upper Elementary School

Published November 12, 2023

Volume 195

 

Adam Vinson - Upper Elementary School Principal

 

A MESSAGE FROM MR. VINSON

During the month of November we are repeatedly called to “give thanks,” which ought to be the natural response of a Christian, not just during this month, but every month of the year. But what about those times when we don’t feel like our life’s circumstances warrant thanksgiving? We have all experienced those seasons of life when it just feels hard to give thanks because so many things feel wrong at the time. Our students’ memory verse this week serves as a good reminder for how we can find the motivation to give thanks, even when we are struggling to find tangible reasons to do so. Psalm 100:4-5 communicates the promise that our LORD is good and that He is faithful to remain good because He has chosen to direct His love towards us. What a promise for seasons of challenge and difficulty! He is good and will accomplish good for us, even in our trials, because He loves us so much. Use this month as a way to remind your entire family that we have much to be thankful for!

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Let me know how our team is doing in keeping you informed about your child’s education this year. If you are lacking communication regarding one of your child’s classes, please let me know so I can help! adam.vinson@tcslions.org

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

UPCOMING UPPER ELEMENTARY DATES

  • Nov 15 - Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes Due

  • Nov 16 - House Color Day

  • Dec 4 - Recorders/Orchestra Concert

  • Dec 5 - Band Concert

  • Dec 7 - Chorus Concert

  • Dec 15 - Remote Learning Day

LAST WEEK IN CHAPEL

Mr. Higgins spoke to our students from Matthew 7 regarding the 2 builders and the 2 foundations that we can build our houses upon. Using this parable, Mr. Higgins encouraged our students to build their lives on the truths of Jesus Christ in order to prepare for the storms of life. We capped chapel off by singing “Firm Foundation” to help us better apply the truths we learned about as well.

LIONS OF THE WEEK

Students who have been recognized by their teachers for setting a good example and making right choices during the school day. 

  • Returning Next Week

THIS WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE: 

As you may notice, our 4th-8th graders memorize the same verses each year. These memory verses are selected intentionally based on the promises and truths they contain that are so relevant for our students as they learn to follow Jesus. Our hope is that these 20 verses will be remembered for years to come after being memorized for multiple years in Upper Elementary and Middle School.

Psalm 100:4-5

v. 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! v. 5 For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.

GRADE CHECK TIME

We have just passed the halfway mark of Q2 which means we are quickly approaching report card time once again. Now is a great time to sit down with your child to assess where they are with their comprehension level of this quarter’s content. Over the next few weeks, encourage your child to make sure they are turning in assignments on time, turning in late work that can still be accepted (a late penalty is better than a zero), and studying for final quizzes and tests that will be given.

OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD SHOEBOXES

Operation Christmas Child shoebox information was sent home with your child this week. We are encouraging each child/family to participate if at all possible. Check out the information and be sure to send your child’s shoebox with them on Wednesday, November 15.

JUST READ QUARTER 2 

With Thanksgiving Break coming up soon, your child will have a great opportunity to complete the Q2 Just Read requirements. Check out the information below and encourage your child to participate!

Students should use the form below to record their reading for Q2.. Completed forms should be returned to your child’s homeroom teacher at the end of Quarter 2, with a prize coming from Mr. Vinson to all who complete the challenge!

Quarter 2 Just Read Form

UPPER ELEMENTARY CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

As we look towards the month of December, here is a quick preview of some of our annual middle school traditions for Christmas that will be coming very soon!

  • “Holly Jolly Trolly” - Each year Mr. Vinson provides a special snack cart full of holiday treats for our upper elementary students to enjoy. Students should bring $1-2 each day they want to purchase something at lunch. More details to come!

  • Dress Down December - To help raise funds for our various middle school overnight experiences, we offer our upper elementary students the opportunity to wear Crocs and/or pajama pants/sweatpants for the month of December. More details to come on how to participate!

BLACKBAUD CLASSROOM INFORMATION

Blackbaud is going to be your main source of information this year. Once you login, you will see a drop down arrow in the top left corner to choose which student’s information to look at. When you click on your 4th or 5th grade student, you will see summary information, and then when you scroll down, you will see each of your student’s classes. Each class is clickable. Please click on your student’s homeroom class to see the weekly newsletter for 4th or 5th grade. Once you are in your student’s homeroom class, it will open up the Bulletin Board. Here is where you will find the clickable link for the newsletter that will be added each week. Any important information for the week will be found here. 

To find information on each specific class, you will go back to the main page for your student and click on each individual class. Again, when you click on the desired class, it will open to that class’ Bulletin Board. Here you will find helpful information such as what to do should your student be absent. For information regarding lesson plans that will include the plans for the week, homework assignments, and any upcoming tests, quizzes, or projects, you will need to click on the “Topics” tab.

To recap:

  • Weekly newsletter is found on your student’s homeroom Bulletin Board.

  • Lesson plans, assignments, etc…are found in the specific classes Topic tab.

UPPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RESOURCES

HOUSE SYSTEM COMPETITION

Check out who is leading the competition at www.tcshouses.weebly.com. 

23/24 SCHOOL CALENDAR: Stay in the know about upcoming breaks and holidays.

DRESS CODE OVERVIEW - Check out this year’s guidelines

PRE-ABSENCE FORM - Submit pre-planned absences 5 days ahead of time for approval.

GENERAL REMINDERS

REMINDER: BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 

Would you like to celebrate your child’s birthday this year? Consider one of the following options as a way to make their day special. 

  • Purchase birthday cart treat items from our snack cart for your child’s homeroom class for $25. Email our Director of Student Life, Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org), if you would like to schedule a day. 

    • PLEASE GIVE A 2-DAY NOTICE SO PREPARATIONS CAN BE MADE

  • Send in prepackaged birthday treats purchased from a store for the homeroom class. 

  • Join your child for lunch (beginning in September) in the cafeteria. 

REMINDER: ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES

The following steps should be taken for reporting absences for 4th - 8th grade:

  • Send excuses for absences, including doctor’s notes to attendance@tcslions.org.

  • Send PRE-ABSENCE REQUESTS (family trips, etc.) to Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) via your child’s homeroom teacher. 

If your child has to miss class this year due to sickness or quarantine, check out our process below for getting your child caught up on missing work and assignments. Please also notify the nursing team to make them aware of surgeries or long-term illnesses at nurses@tcslions.org.

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 1-5 DAYS? - Have your child connect with their teachers upon their return to the classroom. We will not send makeup work home for sick absences of this length through our Return to Academics program. 

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 5+ DAYS? - Reach out to Kasey Hanson (Return to Academics Coordinator) so we can best determine a makeup plan for your child. Mrs. Hanson will help collect makeup work for you to simplify the process. 

  • NOTE: If your child is sick, we want your child to focus on resting and healing before worrying about missing assignments. Please know our teachers will work diligently to help your child catch up once they are feeling well enough to complete assignments.

(pictured l to r) Mrs. McBurnett, Mrs. Lanier, Mr. Higgins, and Mrs. Hanson

Check out our list of administrative faculty below who can help support you with all of your needs throughout this year.

UPPER ELEMENTARY ADMIN TEAM: WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

  • 4th Grade Academic Coordinator - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett can assist you with any academic-related needs for 4th grade.

  • 5th Grade Academic Coordinator - Melissa Lanier (melissa.lanier@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Lanier can assist you with any academic-related needs for 5th grade. 

  • Director of Student Life - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett oversees our special events and field trips while also handling our middle school counseling duties. 

  • Director of Student Development - Dylan Higgins (dylan.higgins@tcslions.org)

    • Mr. Higgins oversees the spiritual development of our student body while also assisting with discipline issues. 

  • Upper Elementary RTA Coordinator - Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Hanson can assist you with makeup work due to any extended absences.

 

Inside the Pride Upper Elementary School News - Volume 194

Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Upper Elementary School

Published November 5, 2023

Volume 194

 

Adam Vinson - Upper Elementary School Principal

 

A MESSAGE FROM MR. VINSON

November is a great time to give back as an expression of our thankfulness to the LORD who truly meets all of our needs (Philippians 4:19). At TCS, we are encouraging all of our students to participate in our Operation Christmas Child shoebox initiative. This is a fantastic way for our students to be the hands and feet of Jesus during this holiday season. In addition, let me encourage you to find ways to serve together as a family. There will be many opportunities available for both Thanksgiving and Christmas in our community. Let’s show our community the Trinity Way through our expressions of love and care all month long.

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Let me know how our team is doing in keeping you informed about your child’s education this year. If you are lacking communication regarding one of your child’s classes, please let me know so I can help! adam.vinson@tcslions.org

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

UPCOMING UPPER ELEMENTARY DATES

  • Nov 7 - Family Night

  • Nov 15 - Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes Due

  • Nov 16 - House Color Day

  • Dec 4 - Recorders/Orchestra Concert

  • Dec 5 - Band Concert

  • Dec 7 - Chorus Concert

LAST WEEK IN CHAPEL

Mrs. Peters, one of our Upper Elementary Bible teachers, spoke to our students from Luke 10 as a Part 1 to understanding the parable of the Good Samaritan. In order to set the stage for the story, Mrs. Peters introduced the question asked to Jesus, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?”.  Examining Jesus’ response, “What does the law say?”, Mrs. Peters walked our students through the Jewish understanding of loving God and neighbor by emphasizing the 10 commandments. We look forward to hearing Part 2 from Mrs. Peters in a few weeks as we dive into the actual parable.

LIONS OF THE WEEK

Students who have been recognized by their teachers for setting a good example and making right choices during the school day. 

  • 4th Grade - Sloane Anderson

  • 5th Grade - Aspen Bell

THIS WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE: 

As you may notice, our 4th-8th graders memorize the same verses each year. These memory verses are selected intentionally based on the promises and truths they contain that are so relevant for our students as they learn to follow Jesus. Our hope is that these 20 verses will be remembered for years to come after being memorized for multiple years in Upper Elementary and Middle School.

I Peter 5:8-9

v. 8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. v. 9 Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.

GLOW DAY 2023 RECAP

Our 5th grade teachers did an amazing job of giving our students a fun learning experience last Friday. Check out some of the pictures that help capture the fun! Thank you 5th grade team for going above and beyond to “fill it to the brim” with your instructional experiences.

OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD SHOEBOXES

Operation Christmas Child shoebox information was sent home with your child this week. We are encouraging each child/family to participate if at all possible. Check out the information and be sure to send your child’s shoebox with them on Wednesday, November 15.

JUST READ QUARTER 2 

With Thanksgiving Break coming up soon, your child will have a great opportunity to complete the Q2 Just Read requirements. Check out the information below and encourage your child to participate!

Students should use the form below to record their reading for Q2.. Completed forms should be returned to your child’s homeroom teacher at the end of Quarter 2, with a prize coming from Mr. Vinson to all who complete the challenge!

Quarter 2 Just Read Form

UPPER ELEMENTARY CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

As we look towards the month of December, here is a quick preview of some of our annual middle school traditions for Christmas that will be coming very soon!

  • “Holly Jolly Trolly” - Each year Mr. Vinson provides a special snack cart full of holiday treats for our upper elementary students to enjoy. Students should bring $1-2 each day they want to purchase something at lunch. More details to come!

  • Dress Down December - To help raise funds for our various middle school overnight experiences, we offer our upper elementary students the opportunity to wear Crocs and/or pajama pants/sweatpants for the month of December. More details to come on how to participate!

BLACKBAUD CLASSROOM INFORMATION

Blackbaud is going to be your main source of information this year. Once you login, you will see a drop down arrow in the top left corner to choose which student’s information to look at. When you click on your 4th or 5th grade student, you will see summary information, and then when you scroll down, you will see each of your student’s classes. Each class is clickable. Please click on your student’s homeroom class to see the weekly newsletter for 4th or 5th grade. Once you are in your student’s homeroom class, it will open up the Bulletin Board. Here is where you will find the clickable link for the newsletter that will be added each week. Any important information for the week will be found here. 

To find information on each specific class, you will go back to the main page for your student and click on each individual class. Again, when you click on the desired class, it will open to that class’ Bulletin Board. Here you will find helpful information such as what to do should your student be absent. For information regarding lesson plans that will include the plans for the week, homework assignments, and any upcoming tests, quizzes, or projects, you will need to click on the “Topics” tab.

To recap:

  • Weekly newsletter is found on your student’s homeroom Bulletin Board.

  • Lesson plans, assignments, etc…are found in the specific classes Topic tab.

UPPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RESOURCES

HOUSE SYSTEM COMPETITION

Check out who is leading the competition at www.tcshouses.weebly.com. 

23/24 SCHOOL CALENDAR: Stay in the know about upcoming breaks and holidays.

DRESS CODE OVERVIEW - Check out this year’s guidelines

PRE-ABSENCE FORM - Submit pre-planned absences 5 days ahead of time for approval.

GENERAL REMINDERS

REMINDER: BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 

Would you like to celebrate your child’s birthday this year? Consider one of the following options as a way to make their day special. 

  • Purchase birthday cart treat items from our snack cart for your child’s homeroom class for $25. Email our Director of Student Life, Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org), if you would like to schedule a day. 

    • PLEASE GIVE A 2-DAY NOTICE SO PREPARATIONS CAN BE MADE

  • Send in prepackaged birthday treats purchased from a store for the homeroom class. 

  • Join your child for lunch (beginning in September) in the cafeteria. 

REMINDER: ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES

The following steps should be taken for reporting absences for 4th - 8th grade:

  • Send excuses for absences, including doctor’s notes to attendance@tcslions.org.

  • Send PRE-ABSENCE REQUESTS (family trips, etc.) to Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) via your child’s homeroom teacher. 

If your child has to miss class this year due to sickness or quarantine, check out our process below for getting your child caught up on missing work and assignments. Please also notify the nursing team to make them aware of surgeries or long-term illnesses at nurses@tcslions.org.

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 1-5 DAYS? - Have your child connect with their teachers upon their return to the classroom. We will not send makeup work home for sick absences of this length through our Return to Academics program. 

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 5+ DAYS? - Reach out to Kasey Hanson (Return to Academics Coordinator) so we can best determine a makeup plan for your child. Mrs. Hanson will help collect makeup work for you to simplify the process. 

  • NOTE: If your child is sick, we want your child to focus on resting and healing before worrying about missing assignments. Please know our teachers will work diligently to help your child catch up once they are feeling well enough to complete assignments.

(pictured l to r) Mrs. McBurnett, Mrs. Lanier, Mr. Higgins, and Mrs. Hanson

Check out our list of administrative faculty below who can help support you with all of your needs throughout this year.

UPPER ELEMENTARY ADMIN TEAM: WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

  • 4th Grade Academic Coordinator - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett can assist you with any academic-related needs for 4th grade.

  • 5th Grade Academic Coordinator - Melissa Lanier (melissa.lanier@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Lanier can assist you with any academic-related needs for 5th grade. 

  • Director of Student Life - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett oversees our special events and field trips while also handling our middle school counseling duties. 

  • Director of Student Development - Dylan Higgins (dylan.higgins@tcslions.org)

    • Mr. Higgins oversees the spiritual development of our student body while also assisting with discipline issues. 

  • Upper Elementary RTA Coordinator - Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Hanson can assist you with makeup work due to any extended absences.

 

Inside the Pride Upper Elementary School News - Volume 193

Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Upper Elementary School

Published October 27, 2023

Volume 193

 

Adam Vinson - Upper Elementary School Principal

 

A MESSAGE FROM MR. VINSON

As we look towards the end of this semester, we know many of you will start making plans for Christmas Break. Please keep in mind that we will have school through Thursday, December 14, with a Remote Learning Day on December 15. While that last week of school often incorporates Christmas celebrations and parties, our upper elementary students will have some classwork and content covered that is needed for your child’s ongoing growth and development, even if they end up with little to no formal assessments. Please plan accordingly to have your child here that week if at all possible.

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Let me know how our team is doing in keeping you informed about your child’s education this year. If you are lacking communication regarding one of your child’s classes, please let me know so I can help! adam.vinson@tcslions.org

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

UPCOMING UPPER ELEMENTARY DATES

  • Nov 3 - 5th Grade Trip to Stone Mountain Park

  • Nov 7 - Family Night

  • Nov 16 - House Color Day

LAST WEEK IN CHAPEL

Mr. Vinson spoke to our students on the resurrection of Jesus and the hope of His return from both Acts 17 and I John 3. Using the illustration of how some people believe in things that seem far-fetched (like Bigfoot) while having that belief impact their life in little to no way, the resurrection of Jesus is way different. Not only is it not far-fetched to believe Jesus is alive based on the empty tomb, 500+ witnesses, and changed lives of the disciples, the truth of the historical resurrection must have an impact on our lives. We even had a “Bigfoot” show up in chapel to help drive home the lesson!

LIONS OF THE WEEK

Students who have been recognized by their teachers for setting a good example and making right choices during the school day. 

  • 4th Grade - Finley Joyner

  • 5th Grade - Coleigh Bishop

THIS WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE: 

As you may notice, our 4th-8th graders memorize the same verses each year. These memory verses are selected intentionally based on the promises and truths they contain that are so relevant for our students as they learn to follow Jesus. Our hope is that these 20 verses will be remembered for years to come after being memorized for multiple years in Upper Elementary and Middle School.

I Peter 5:8-9

v. 8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. v. 9 Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.

OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD SHOEBOXES

Be on the lookout this week for information related to packing shoeboxes for our upcoming partnership with Operation Christmas Child. All shoeboxes will need to be returned by Wednesday, November 15.

5TH GRADE TRIP TO STONE MOUNTAIN PARK

Don’t forget, our 5th graders are headed to Stone Mountain Park this Friday. Check out the last minute details below to make sure you are prepared for this FRIDAY!

  • Departure: We are leaving from TCS at 8:15 am. Drop your child off at normal time. If you are driving to join us, please meet us at Stone Mountain. We will plan to drop students off in the main parking lot. 

  • Dress Code: Students should wear TCS spirit wear. Students may wear athletic shorts (appropriate finger-tip length) or pants. Students may also wear jeans or normal dress code pants/shorts. 

  • Lunch: Don’t forget to send your child a sack lunch (with drink)!

Return: If your child is returning on the bus, we plan to be back on campus by 4:15 pm pending Atlanta traffic.

BLACKBAUD CLASSROOM INFORMATION

Blackbaud is going to be your main source of information this year. Once you login, you will see a drop down arrow in the top left corner to choose which student’s information to look at. When you click on your 4th or 5th grade student, you will see summary information, and then when you scroll down, you will see each of your student’s classes. Each class is clickable. Please click on your student’s homeroom class to see the weekly newsletter for 4th or 5th grade. Once you are in your student’s homeroom class, it will open up the Bulletin Board. Here is where you will find the clickable link for the newsletter that will be added each week. Any important information for the week will be found here. 

To find information on each specific class, you will go back to the main page for your student and click on each individual class. Again, when you click on the desired class, it will open to that class’ Bulletin Board. Here you will find helpful information such as what to do should your student be absent. For information regarding lesson plans that will include the plans for the week, homework assignments, and any upcoming tests, quizzes, or projects, you will need to click on the “Topics” tab.

To recap:

  • Weekly newsletter is found on your student’s homeroom Bulletin Board.

  • Lesson plans, assignments, etc…are found in the specific classes Topic tab.

JUST READ QUARTER 2 

We want to invite all of our 4th and 5th graders to participate in our voluntary reading program this year called “Just Read”. Appropriately named, we “just want our students reading” outside of class time independently. Students should use the form below to record their reading for Q2.. Completed forms should be returned to your child’s homeroom teacher at the end of Quarter 2, with a prize coming from Mr. Vinson to all who complete the challenge!

Quarter 2 Just Read Form

UPPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RESOURCES

HOUSE SYSTEM COMPETITION

Check out who is leading the competition at www.tcshouses.weebly.com. 

23/24 SCHOOL CALENDAR: Stay in the know about upcoming breaks and holidays.

DRESS CODE OVERVIEW - Check out this year’s guidelines

PRE-ABSENCE FORM - Submit pre-planned absences 5 days ahead of time for approval.

GENERAL REMINDERS

REMINDER: BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 

Would you like to celebrate your child’s birthday this year? Consider one of the following options as a way to make their day special. 

  • Purchase birthday cart treat items from our snack cart for your child’s homeroom class for $25. Email our Director of Student Life, Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org), if you would like to schedule a day. 

    • PLEASE GIVE A 2-DAY NOTICE SO PREPARATIONS CAN BE MADE

  • Send in prepackaged birthday treats purchased from a store for the homeroom class. 

  • Join your child for lunch (beginning in September) in the cafeteria. 

REMINDER: ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES

The following steps should be taken for reporting absences for 4th - 8th grade:

  • Send excuses for absences, including doctor’s notes to attendance@tcslions.org.

  • Send PRE-ABSENCE REQUESTS (family trips, etc.) to Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) via your child’s homeroom teacher. 

If your child has to miss class this year due to sickness or quarantine, check out our process below for getting your child caught up on missing work and assignments. Please also notify the nursing team to make them aware of surgeries or long-term illnesses at nurses@tcslions.org.

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 1-5 DAYS? - Have your child connect with their teachers upon their return to the classroom. We will not send makeup work home for sick absences of this length through our Return to Academics program. 

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 5+ DAYS? - Reach out to Kasey Hanson (Return to Academics Coordinator) so we can best determine a makeup plan for your child. Mrs. Hanson will help collect makeup work for you to simplify the process. 

  • NOTE: If your child is sick, we want your child to focus on resting and healing before worrying about missing assignments. Please know our teachers will work diligently to help your child catch up once they are feeling well enough to complete assignments.

(pictured l to r) Mrs. McBurnett, Mrs. Lanier, Mr. Higgins, and Mrs. Hanson

Check out our list of administrative faculty below who can help support you with all of your needs throughout this year.

UPPER ELEMENTARY ADMIN TEAM: WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

  • 4th Grade Academic Coordinator - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett can assist you with any academic-related needs for 4th grade.

  • 5th Grade Academic Coordinator - Melissa Lanier (melissa.lanier@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Lanier can assist you with any academic-related needs for 5th grade. 

  • Director of Student Life - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett oversees our special events and field trips while also handling our middle school counseling duties. 

  • Director of Student Development - Dylan Higgins (dylan.higgins@tcslions.org)

    • Mr. Higgins oversees the spiritual development of our student body while also assisting with discipline issues. 

  • Upper Elementary RTA Coordinator - Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Hanson can assist you with makeup work due to any extended absences.

 

Inside the Pride Upper Elementary School News - Volume 192

Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Upper Elementary School

Published October 22, 2023

Volume 192

 

Adam Vinson - Upper Elementary School Principal

 

A MESSAGE FROM MR. VINSON

I want to encourage you looking ahead to make intentional plans to enjoy time with your family on Tuesday, November 7. This will be our Quarter 2 FAMILY NIGHT, which means NO homework on Tuesday night and NO assessments on Wednesday. Rest assured, we are going to keep the rest of the week as normal as possible as well, so hopefully this truly will feel like some time off from the busyness of school. We are excited about the start of Quarter 2 and look forward to seeing how well our students perform over these next several weeks.

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Let me know how our team is doing in keeping you informed about your child’s education this year. If you are lacking communication regarding one of your child’s classes, please let me know so I can help! adam.vinson@tcslions.org

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

UPCOMING UPPER ELEMENTARY DATES

  • Oct 27 - 5th Grade Glow Day

  • Nov 3 - 5th Grade Trip to Stone Mountain Park

  • Nov 7 - Family Night

  • Nov 16 - House Color Day

LAST WEEK IN CHAPEL

Coach Settle spoke to our students from the book of Daniel and the story of Shadrach, Meschach, and Abednego. Coach Settle reminded our students what it means to take a stand against culture, and how God stands with us in the midst of our stance for obedience.

LIONS OF THE WEEK

Students who have been recognized by their teachers for setting a good example and making right choices during the school day. 

  • 4th Grade - Krista Barnhill

  • 5th Grade - London Wainwright

THIS WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE: 

As you may notice, our 4th-8th graders memorize the same verses each year. These memory verses are selected intentionally based on the promises and truths they contain that are so relevant for our students as they learn to follow Jesus. Our hope is that these 20 verses will be remembered for years to come after being memorized for multiple years in Upper Elementary and Middle School.

James 1:2-4

v. 2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, v. 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. v. 4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

REGISTRATION NEEDED: AGAPE AFTER SCHOOL

The Agape After School program has asked that we please send the following link to all of our 4th and 5th grade families so we can have every family registered in case after school ever needs to be utilized. Please note that completing the registration is not an indicator that you plan to use the program, nor is it agreeing to any charges. WE NEED EVERY FAMILY to register so that if you ever have to utilize the program, your child’s information is already on record. Please use the link below to complete the registration. Thank you!

www.tri-church.com/agape

5TH GRADE TRIP TO STONE MOUNTAIN PARK

Our 5th graders will have the opportunity to spend the day at Stone Mountain Park on Friday, November 3! Check out the details below for this exciting, upcoming trip. 

  • TIME: We will be leaving TCS at 8:15am and returning back to TCS at 4:15pm. 

  • COST: The cost of the field trip is $18. Cost includes the Skyride to the top of the mountain, 4D Theater, Mini Golf, Dinosaur Explore, and the Native American Festival!

  • LUNCH: Students will need to bring a sack lunch for this field trip to enjoy a picnic with their classmates.

  • PAYMENT: Please login to tcslions.myschoolapp.com to view and pay.

*If you would like to attend this field trip with your 5th grader, please fill out the Google Form below to indicate that you would like to order a ticket for you as a parent.

https://forms.gle/EFGRrdrNCYVboPAUA

BLACKBAUD CLASSROOM INFORMATION

Blackbaud is going to be your main source of information this year. Once you login, you will see a drop down arrow in the top left corner to choose which student’s information to look at. When you click on your 4th or 5th grade student, you will see summary information, and then when you scroll down, you will see each of your student’s classes. Each class is clickable. Please click on your student’s homeroom class to see the weekly newsletter for 4th or 5th grade. Once you are in your student’s homeroom class, it will open up the Bulletin Board. Here is where you will find the clickable link for the newsletter that will be added each week. Any important information for the week will be found here. 

To find information on each specific class, you will go back to the main page for your student and click on each individual class. Again, when you click on the desired class, it will open to that class’ Bulletin Board. Here you will find helpful information such as what to do should your student be absent. For information regarding lesson plans that will include the plans for the week, homework assignments, and any upcoming tests, quizzes, or projects, you will need to click on the “Topics” tab.

To recap:

  • Weekly newsletter is found on your student’s homeroom Bulletin Board.

  • Lesson plans, assignments, etc…are found in the specific classes Topic tab.

JUST READ QUARTER 1 

We want to invite all of our 4th and 5th graders to participate in our voluntary reading program this year called “Just Read”. Appropriately named, we “just want our students reading” outside of class time independently. Students should use the form below to record their reading for Q1 (first 9 weeks of school). Completed forms should be returned to your child’s homeroom teacher at the end of Quarter, with a prize coming from Mr. Vinson to all who complete the challenge!

Quarter 1 Just Read Form

UPPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RESOURCES

HOUSE SYSTEM COMPETITION

Check out who is leading the competition at www.tcshouses.weebly.com. 

23/24 SCHOOL CALENDAR: Stay in the know about upcoming breaks and holidays.

DRESS CODE OVERVIEW - Check out this year’s guidelines

PRE-ABSENCE FORM - Submit pre-planned absences 5 days ahead of time for approval.

GENERAL REMINDERS

REMINDER: BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 

Would you like to celebrate your child’s birthday this year? Consider one of the following options as a way to make their day special. 

  • Purchase birthday cart treat items from our snack cart for your child’s homeroom class for $25. Email our Director of Student Life, Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org), if you would like to schedule a day. 

    • PLEASE GIVE A 2-DAY NOTICE SO PREPARATIONS CAN BE MADE

  • Send in prepackaged birthday treats purchased from a store for the homeroom class. 

  • Join your child for lunch (beginning in September) in the cafeteria. 

REMINDER: ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES

The following steps should be taken for reporting absences for 4th - 8th grade:

  • Send excuses for absences, including doctor’s notes to attendance@tcslions.org.

  • Send PRE-ABSENCE REQUESTS (family trips, etc.) to Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) via your child’s homeroom teacher. 

If your child has to miss class this year due to sickness or quarantine, check out our process below for getting your child caught up on missing work and assignments. Please also notify the nursing team to make them aware of surgeries or long-term illnesses at nurses@tcslions.org.

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 1-5 DAYS? - Have your child connect with their teachers upon their return to the classroom. We will not send makeup work home for sick absences of this length through our Return to Academics program. 

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 5+ DAYS? - Reach out to Kasey Hanson (Return to Academics Coordinator) so we can best determine a makeup plan for your child. Mrs. Hanson will help collect makeup work for you to simplify the process. 

  • NOTE: If your child is sick, we want your child to focus on resting and healing before worrying about missing assignments. Please know our teachers will work diligently to help your child catch up once they are feeling well enough to complete assignments.

(pictured l to r) Mrs. McBurnett, Mrs. Lanier, Mr. Higgins, and Mrs. Hanson

Check out our list of administrative faculty below who can help support you with all of your needs throughout this year.

UPPER ELEMENTARY ADMIN TEAM: WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

  • 4th Grade Academic Coordinator - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett can assist you with any academic-related needs for 4th grade.

  • 5th Grade Academic Coordinator - Melissa Lanier (melissa.lanier@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Lanier can assist you with any academic-related needs for 5th grade. 

  • Director of Student Life - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett oversees our special events and field trips while also handling our middle school counseling duties. 

  • Director of Student Development - Dylan Higgins (dylan.higgins@tcslions.org)

    • Mr. Higgins oversees the spiritual development of our student body while also assisting with discipline issues. 

  • Upper Elementary RTA Coordinator - Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Hanson can assist you with makeup work due to any extended absences.

 

Inside the Pride Upper Elementary School News - Volume 191

Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Upper Elementary School

Published October 15, 2023

Volume 191

 

Adam Vinson - Upper Elementary School Principal

 

A MESSAGE FROM MR. VINSON

As a reminder, we would love to know about your family’s Q1 experience. If you haven’t done so already, let us know how the first 9 weeks went and what your child’s overall experience has been like this school year. Use the links below to complete the appropriate grade level survey. We appreciate the feedback and will plan to use the results to shape the Q2 experience.

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Let me know how our team is doing in keeping you informed about your child’s education this year. If you are lacking communication regarding one of your child’s classes, please let me know so I can help! adam.vinson@tcslions.org

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

UPCOMING UPPER ELEMENTARY DATES

  • Oct 20 - House Color Day

  • Oct 27 - 5th Grade Glow Day

  • Nov 3 - 5th Grade Trip to Stone Mountain Park

LAST WEEK IN CHAPEL

Pastor BJ Cobb from First Baptist Senoia spoke to our students from Ephesians 5:1-2 with a focus on what it means to be both loved by God and to walk in love when it comes to our interaction with others. Our students were also challenged to walk in wisdom, not only knowing what to do, but learning to apply that knowledge to every situation in life.

LIONS OF THE WEEK

Students who have been recognized by their teachers for setting a good example and making right choices during the school day. 

  • 4th Grade - Cameron Camper 

  • 5th Grade - Cole Rhodes

THIS WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE: 

As you may notice, our 4th-8th graders memorize the same verses each year. These memory verses are selected intentionally based on the promises and truths they contain that are so relevant for our students as they learn to follow Jesus. Our hope is that these 20 verses will be remembered for years to come after being memorized for multiple years in Upper Elementary and Middle School.

James 1:2-4

v. 2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, v. 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. v. 4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

5TH GRADE TRIP TO STONE MOUNTAIN PARK

Our 5th graders will have the opportunity to spend the day at Stone Mountain Park on Friday, November 3! Check out the details below for this exciting, upcoming trip. 

  • TIME: We will be leaving TCS at 8:15am and returning back to TCS at 4:15pm. 

  • COST: The cost of the field trip is $18. Cost includes the Skyride to the top of the mountain, 4D Theater, Mini Golf, Dinosaur Explore, and the Native American Festival!

  • LUNCH: Students will need to bring a sack lunch for this field trip to enjoy a picnic with their classmates.

  • PAYMENT: Please login to tcslions.myschoolapp.com to view and pay.

*If you would like to attend this field trip with your 5th grader, please fill out the Google Form below to indicate that you would like to order a ticket for you as a parent.

https://forms.gle/EFGRrdrNCYVboPAUA

BLACKBAUD CLASSROOM INFORMATION

Blackbaud is going to be your main source of information this year. Once you login, you will see a drop down arrow in the top left corner to choose which student’s information to look at. When you click on your 4th or 5th grade student, you will see summary information, and then when you scroll down, you will see each of your student’s classes. Each class is clickable. Please click on your student’s homeroom class to see the weekly newsletter for 4th or 5th grade. Once you are in your student’s homeroom class, it will open up the Bulletin Board. Here is where you will find the clickable link for the newsletter that will be added each week. Any important information for the week will be found here. 

To find information on each specific class, you will go back to the main page for your student and click on each individual class. Again, when you click on the desired class, it will open to that class’ Bulletin Board. Here you will find helpful information such as what to do should your student be absent. For information regarding lesson plans that will include the plans for the week, homework assignments, and any upcoming tests, quizzes, or projects, you will need to click on the “Topics” tab.

To recap:

  • Weekly newsletter is found on your student’s homeroom Bulletin Board.

  • Lesson plans, assignments, etc…are found in the specific classes Topic tab.

JUST READ QUARTER 1 

We want to invite all of our 4th and 5th graders to participate in our voluntary reading program this year called “Just Read”. Appropriately named, we “just want our students reading” outside of class time independently. Students should use the form below to record their reading for Q1 (first 9 weeks of school). Completed forms should be returned to your child’s homeroom teacher at the end of Quarter, with a prize coming from Mr. Vinson to all who complete the challenge!

Quarter 1 Just Read Form

UPPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RESOURCES

HOUSE SYSTEM COMPETITION

Check out who is leading the competition at www.tcshouses.weebly.com. 

23/24 SCHOOL CALENDAR: Stay in the know about upcoming breaks and holidays.

DRESS CODE OVERVIEW - Check out this year’s guidelines

PRE-ABSENCE FORM - Submit pre-planned absences 5 days ahead of time for approval.

GENERAL REMINDERS

REMINDER: BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 

Would you like to celebrate your child’s birthday this year? Consider one of the following options as a way to make their day special. 

  • Purchase birthday cart treat items from our snack cart for your child’s homeroom class for $25. Email our Director of Student Life, Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org), if you would like to schedule a day. 

    • PLEASE GIVE A 2-DAY NOTICE SO PREPARATIONS CAN BE MADE

  • Send in prepackaged birthday treats purchased from a store for the homeroom class. 

  • Join your child for lunch (beginning in September) in the cafeteria. 

REMINDER: ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES

The following steps should be taken for reporting absences for 4th - 8th grade:

  • Send excuses for absences, including doctor’s notes to attendance@tcslions.org.

  • Send PRE-ABSENCE REQUESTS (family trips, etc.) to Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) via your child’s homeroom teacher. 

If your child has to miss class this year due to sickness or quarantine, check out our process below for getting your child caught up on missing work and assignments. Please also notify the nursing team to make them aware of surgeries or long-term illnesses at nurses@tcslions.org.

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 1-5 DAYS? - Have your child connect with their teachers upon their return to the classroom. We will not send makeup work home for sick absences of this length through our Return to Academics program. 

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 5+ DAYS? - Reach out to Kasey Hanson (Return to Academics Coordinator) so we can best determine a makeup plan for your child. Mrs. Hanson will help collect makeup work for you to simplify the process. 

  • NOTE: If your child is sick, we want your child to focus on resting and healing before worrying about missing assignments. Please know our teachers will work diligently to help your child catch up once they are feeling well enough to complete assignments.

(pictured l to r) Mrs. McBurnett, Mrs. Lanier, Mr. Higgins, and Mrs. Hanson

Check out our list of administrative faculty below who can help support you with all of your needs throughout this year.

UPPER ELEMENTARY ADMIN TEAM: WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

  • 4th Grade Academic Coordinator - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett can assist you with any academic-related needs for 4th grade.

  • 5th Grade Academic Coordinator - Melissa Lanier (melissa.lanier@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Lanier can assist you with any academic-related needs for 5th grade. 

  • Director of Student Life - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett oversees our special events and field trips while also handling our middle school counseling duties. 

  • Director of Student Development - Dylan Higgins (dylan.higgins@tcslions.org)

    • Mr. Higgins oversees the spiritual development of our student body while also assisting with discipline issues. 

  • Upper Elementary RTA Coordinator - Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Hanson can assist you with makeup work due to any extended absences.

 

Inside the Pride Upper Elementary School News - Volume 190

Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Upper Elementary School

Published October 1, 2023

Volume 189

 

Adam Vinson - Upper Elementary School Principal

 

A MESSAGE FROM MR. VINSON

Fall is here, and Q1 is complete! I hope each of you is having a wonderful Fall Break and enjoying the changing of the seasons that is upon us. Don’t forget that when we return to campus on Tuesday, ALL REMOTE WORK is due from Friday, Oct 6. Be sure to check Blackbaud for all of your child’s remote learning work. Please know as well that our teachers are working to finalize grades this upcoming week with the plan to make Q1 report cards visible on Blackbaud beginning Monday, Oct 16. We are so proud of our students and all of their hard work.

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Let me know how our team is doing in keeping you informed about your child’s education this year. If you are lacking communication regarding one of your child’s classes, please let me know so I can help! adam.vinson@tcslions.org

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

UPCOMING UPPER ELEMENTARY DATES

  • Oct 13 - Picture Retakes

  • Oct 13 - Fall Family Fest

  • Oct 20 - House Color Day

  • Nov 3 - 5th Grade Trip to Stone Mountain Park

LAST WEEK IN CHAPEL

Mrs. Wendy Peters, one of our UE/MS Bible teachers, spoke to our students on the parable of the soils. Using visuals to help our students understand the various soils mentioned, Mrs. Peters encouraged our students to examine their own hearts and the condition of their response to God’s Word. Are they hardened to God’s call like the rocky soil or have they responded to the gospel as depicted by the good soil? Thank you Mrs. Peters helping our students visually see the meaning of this important parable.

LIONS OF THE WEEK

Students who have been recognized by their teachers for setting a good example and making right choices during the school day. 

  • 4th Grade - Lola Lopez

  • 5th Grade - Luke Cranford

THIS WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE: 

As you may notice, our 4th-8th graders memorize the same verses each year. These memory verses are selected intentionally based on the promises and truths they contain that are so relevant for our students as they learn to follow Jesus. Our hope is that these 20 verses will be remembered for years to come after being memorized for multiple years in Upper Elementary and Middle School.

Proverbs 3:5-7

v. 5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.    v. 6 In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. v. 7 Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil.

ANNUAL FUND SHOUTOUT

Thank you to everyone who gave so generously to this year’s Annual Fund. Our students will benefit so much from the extra items, resources and opportunities made available through your giving!

CONGRATULATIONS TO QUARTER 1 PRIDE PERFORMERS

The following students were selected by their teachers for their hard work and dedication to the classroom these past 9 weeks. These are students who “filled it to the brim,” and we want to acknowledge them for their hard work! Great job students!

  • 4th Grade

    • ELA = Lucy Skowronski

    • Math = Kalyn Beane

    • Science = Law Chambers

    • Reading = Cade Ridlehoover

  • 5th Grade

    • ELA = Jade Mitman

    • Math = Daven Salazar

    • Science = Skylar Tilley

    • Reading = Lina Higgins

QUARTER 1 FEEDBACK

Let us know how the first 9 weeks went and what your child’s overall experience has been like this school year by completing the appropriate grade level survey below. We appreciate the feedback and will plan to use the results to shape the Q2 experience. 

PICTURE RETAKE INFORMATION FOR FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13

Fall Picture Retakes This Friday, October 13! Sign up below

Individual picture retakes will be this Friday, October 13 for all grades school-wide.  Proofs and order forms will be sent home after the retakes have been processed.  

If you would like your student to have their picture retaken, please sign up using the link below:

Picture Retake Sign Up

**Please note: The retake picture is the one that will be in the yearbook.  There will not be an option to choose between the original picture taken and the retake.  

For help with school pictures, please reach out to LifeTouch Customer Success Team: 

Phone number: 1-800-736-4753 

Or use the chat function on the website my.lifetouch.com to chat with an agent.

OPTIONAL HOUSE COLOR T-SHIRTS

We have had several parents request the option to purchase House shirts to wear on House Color Days. We are excited to announce that we have partnered with Graceful Peach Boutique to offer shirts for Elliot, Lewis, Nee, Robinson and Wycliffe houses! Check out the link below and order your optional shirt today if you are looking for something to wear on House Color Day. 

Our next scheduled House Color Day is October 20!

https://www.gracefulpeachboutique.com/collections/special-order

5TH GRADE TRIP TO STONE MOUNTAIN PARK

Our 5th graders will have the opportunity to spend the day at Stone Mountain Park on Friday, November 3! Check out the details below for this exciting, upcoming trip. 

  • TIME: We will be leaving TCS at 8:15am and returning back to TCS at 4:15pm. 

  • COST: The cost of the field trip is $18. Cost includes the Skyride to the top of the mountain, 4D Theater, Mini Golf, Dinosaur Explore, and the Native American Festival!

  • LUNCH: Students will need to bring a sack lunch for this field trip to enjoy a picnic with their classmates.

  • PAYMENT: Please login to tcslions.myschoolapp.com to view and pay.

*If you would like to attend this field trip with your 5th grader, please fill out the Google Form below to indicate that you would like to order a ticket for you as a parent.

https://forms.gle/EFGRrdrNCYVboPAUA

BLACKBAUD CLASSROOM INFORMATION

Blackbaud is going to be your main source of information this year. Once you login, you will see a drop down arrow in the top left corner to choose which student’s information to look at. When you click on your 4th or 5th grade student, you will see summary information, and then when you scroll down, you will see each of your student’s classes. Each class is clickable. Please click on your student’s homeroom class to see the weekly newsletter for 4th or 5th grade. Once you are in your student’s homeroom class, it will open up the Bulletin Board. Here is where you will find the clickable link for the newsletter that will be added each week. Any important information for the week will be found here. 

To find information on each specific class, you will go back to the main page for your student and click on each individual class. Again, when you click on the desired class, it will open to that class’ Bulletin Board. Here you will find helpful information such as what to do should your student be absent. For information regarding lesson plans that will include the plans for the week, homework assignments, and any upcoming tests, quizzes, or projects, you will need to click on the “Topics” tab.

To recap:

  • Weekly newsletter is found on your student’s homeroom Bulletin Board.

  • Lesson plans, assignments, etc…are found in the specific classes Topic tab.

JUST READ QUARTER 1 

We want to invite all of our 4th and 5th graders to participate in our voluntary reading program this year called “Just Read”. Appropriately named, we “just want our students reading” outside of class time independently. Students should use the form below to record their reading for Q1 (first 9 weeks of school). Completed forms should be returned to your child’s homeroom teacher at the end of Quarter, with a prize coming from Mr. Vinson to all who complete the challenge!

Quarter 1 Just Read Form

UPPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RESOURCES

HOUSE SYSTEM COMPETITION

Check out who is leading the competition at www.tcshouses.weebly.com. 

23/24 SCHOOL CALENDAR: Stay in the know about upcoming breaks and holidays.

DRESS CODE OVERVIEW - Check out this year’s guidelines

PRE-ABSENCE FORM - Submit pre-planned absences 5 days ahead of time for approval.

GENERAL REMINDERS

REMINDER: BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 

Would you like to celebrate your child’s birthday this year? Consider one of the following options as a way to make their day special. 

  • Purchase birthday cart treat items from our snack cart for your child’s homeroom class for $25. Email our Director of Student Life, Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org), if you would like to schedule a day. 

    • PLEASE GIVE A 2-DAY NOTICE SO PREPARATIONS CAN BE MADE

  • Send in prepackaged birthday treats purchased from a store for the homeroom class. 

  • Join your child for lunch (beginning in September) in the cafeteria. 

REMINDER: ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES

The following steps should be taken for reporting absences for 4th - 8th grade:

  • Send excuses for absences, including doctor’s notes to attendance@tcslions.org.

  • Send PRE-ABSENCE REQUESTS (family trips, etc.) to Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) via your child’s homeroom teacher. 

If your child has to miss class this year due to sickness or quarantine, check out our process below for getting your child caught up on missing work and assignments. Please also notify the nursing team to make them aware of surgeries or long-term illnesses at nurses@tcslions.org.

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 1-5 DAYS? - Have your child connect with their teachers upon their return to the classroom. We will not send makeup work home for sick absences of this length through our Return to Academics program. 

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 5+ DAYS? - Reach out to Kasey Hanson (Return to Academics Coordinator) so we can best determine a makeup plan for your child. Mrs. Hanson will help collect makeup work for you to simplify the process. 

  • NOTE: If your child is sick, we want your child to focus on resting and healing before worrying about missing assignments. Please know our teachers will work diligently to help your child catch up once they are feeling well enough to complete assignments.

(pictured l to r) Mrs. McBurnett, Mrs. Lanier, Mr. Higgins, and Mrs. Hanson

Check out our list of administrative faculty below who can help support you with all of your needs throughout this year.

UPPER ELEMENTARY ADMIN TEAM: WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

  • 4th Grade Academic Coordinator - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett can assist you with any academic-related needs for 4th grade.

  • 5th Grade Academic Coordinator - Melissa Lanier (melissa.lanier@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Lanier can assist you with any academic-related needs for 5th grade. 

  • Director of Student Life - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett oversees our special events and field trips while also handling our middle school counseling duties. 

  • Director of Student Development - Dylan Higgins (dylan.higgins@tcslions.org)

    • Mr. Higgins oversees the spiritual development of our student body while also assisting with discipline issues. 

  • Upper Elementary RTA Coordinator - Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Hanson can assist you with makeup work due to any extended absences.

 

Inside the Pride Upper Elementary School News - Volume 188

Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Upper Elementary School

Published September 24, 2023

Volume 188

 

Adam Vinson - Upper Elementary School Principal

 

A MESSAGE FROM MR. VINSON

Don’t forget we have our first “Family Night” of this school year on Thursday! This means NO HOMEWORK on Thursday night and NO ASSESSMENTS (TEST/QUIZ) on Friday either. Our hope is that each of your families can enjoy an evening free from any school work and studying with the possibilities of scheduling something special to do together with the time off. We hope the night is a blessing for you as we come towards the end of Quarter 1.

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Let me know how our team is doing in keeping you informed about your child’s education this year. If you are lacking communication regarding one of your child’s classes, please let me know so I can help! adam.vinson@tcslions.org

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

UPCOMING UPPER ELEMENTARY DATES

  • Sept 26 - House Color Day

  • Sept 28 - Family Night (No Homework and No Studying!)

  • Oct 6 - Remote Learning Day

  • Oct 9 - Fall Break

  • Oct 13 - Picture Retakes

LAST WEEK IN CHAPEL

Returning next week

LIONS OF THE WEEK

Students who have been recognized by their teachers for setting a good example and making right choices during the school day. 

  • Returning next week

THIS WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE: 

As you may notice, our 4th-8th graders memorize the same verses each year. These memory verses are selected intentionally based on the promises and truths they contain that are so relevant for our students as they learn to follow Jesus. Our hope is that these 20 verses will be remembered for years to come after being memorized for multiple years in Upper Elementary and Middle School.

Philippians 4:6-7

v. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be known to God. v. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

HOUSE FOCUS: THE WYCLIFFE HOUSE

Our House System at TCS is designed to introduce our elementary and middle school students to important historical Christian figures who exhibit character qualities that we hope to see exemplified in our own student body as well. This week, we are focusing on the WYCLIFFE HOUSE. 

Character Trait to Remember: Find Ways to Serve Others When You See A Need

Who was he? John Wycliffe’s beliefs and works made him known as a precursor to the Reformation. He is most well known for his tireless efforts to translate the Bible into English and making copies of the Bible more readily available.

Learn more about John Wycliffe by watching the video we showed in chapel this week

HOUSE COLOR DAY

Don’t forget our next House Color Day is this Tuesday, September 26. All students are encouraged to wear a shirt reflecting their house color. Students are required to wear normal dress code pants/shorts/jeans.

5TH GRADE TRIP TO STONE MOUNTAIN PARK

Our 5th graders will have the opportunity to spend the day at Stone Mountain Park on Friday, November 3! Check out the details below for this exciting, upcoming trip. 

  • TIME: We will be leaving TCS at 8:15am and returning back to TCS at 4:15pm. 

  • COST: The cost of the field trip is $18. Cost includes the Skyride to the top of the mountain, 4D Theater, Mini Golf, Dinosaur Explore, and the Native American Festival!

  • LUNCH: Students will need to bring a sack lunch for this field trip to enjoy a picnic with their classmates.

  • PAYMENT: Please login to tcslions.myschoolapp.com to view and pay.

*If you would like to attend this field trip with your 5th grader, please fill out the Google Form below to indicate that you would like to order a ticket for you as a parent.

https://forms.gle/EFGRrdrNCYVboPAUA

BLACKBAUD CLASSROOM INFORMATION

Blackbaud is going to be your main source of information this year. Once you login, you will see a drop down arrow in the top left corner to choose which student’s information to look at. When you click on your 4th or 5th grade student, you will see summary information, and then when you scroll down, you will see each of your student’s classes. Each class is clickable. Please click on your student’s homeroom class to see the weekly newsletter for 4th or 5th grade. Once you are in your student’s homeroom class, it will open up the Bulletin Board. Here is where you will find the clickable link for the newsletter that will be added each week. Any important information for the week will be found here. 

To find information on each specific class, you will go back to the main page for your student and click on each individual class. Again, when you click on the desired class, it will open to that class’ Bulletin Board. Here you will find helpful information such as what to do should your student be absent. For information regarding lesson plans that will include the plans for the week, homework assignments, and any upcoming tests, quizzes, or projects, you will need to click on the “Topics” tab.

To recap:

  • Weekly newsletter is found on your student’s homeroom Bulletin Board.

  • Lesson plans, assignments, etc…are found in the specific classes Topic tab.

JUST READ QUARTER 1 

We want to invite all of our 4th and 5th graders to participate in our voluntary reading program this year called “Just Read”. Appropriately named, we “just want our students reading” outside of class time independently. Students should use the form below to record their reading for Q1 (first 9 weeks of school). Completed forms should be returned to your child’s homeroom teacher at the end of Quarter, with a prize coming from Mr. Vinson to all who complete the challenge!

Quarter 1 Just Read Form

UPPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RESOURCES

HOUSE SYSTEM COMPETITION

Check out who is leading the competition at www.tcshouses.weebly.com. 

23/24 SCHOOL CALENDAR: Stay in the know about upcoming breaks and holidays.

DRESS CODE OVERVIEW - Check out this year’s guidelines

PRE-ABSENCE FORM - Submit pre-planned absences 5 days ahead of time for approval.

GENERAL REMINDERS

REMINDER: BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 

Would you like to celebrate your child’s birthday this year? Consider one of the following options as a way to make their day special. 

  • Purchase birthday cart treat items from our snack cart for your child’s homeroom class for $25. Email our Director of Student Life, Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org), if you would like to schedule a day. 

    • PLEASE GIVE A 2-DAY NOTICE SO PREPARATIONS CAN BE MADE

  • Send in prepackaged birthday treats purchased from a store for the homeroom class. 

  • Join your child for lunch (beginning in September) in the cafeteria. 

REMINDER: ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES

The following steps should be taken for reporting absences for 4th - 8th grade:

  • Send excuses for absences, including doctor’s notes to attendance@tcslions.org.

  • Send PRE-ABSENCE REQUESTS (family trips, etc.) to Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) via your child’s homeroom teacher. 

If your child has to miss class this year due to sickness or quarantine, check out our process below for getting your child caught up on missing work and assignments. Please also notify the nursing team to make them aware of surgeries or long-term illnesses at nurses@tcslions.org.

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 1-5 DAYS? - Have your child connect with their teachers upon their return to the classroom. We will not send makeup work home for sick absences of this length through our Return to Academics program. 

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 5+ DAYS? - Reach out to Kasey Hanson (Return to Academics Coordinator) so we can best determine a makeup plan for your child. Mrs. Hanson will help collect makeup work for you to simplify the process. 

  • NOTE: If your child is sick, we want your child to focus on resting and healing before worrying about missing assignments. Please know our teachers will work diligently to help your child catch up once they are feeling well enough to complete assignments.

(pictured l to r) Mrs. McBurnett, Mrs. Lanier, Mr. Higgins, and Mrs. Hanson

Check out our list of administrative faculty below who can help support you with all of your needs throughout this year.

UPPER ELEMENTARY ADMIN TEAM: WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

  • 4th Grade Academic Coordinator - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett can assist you with any academic-related needs for 4th grade.

  • 5th Grade Academic Coordinator - Melissa Lanier (melissa.lanier@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Lanier can assist you with any academic-related needs for 5th grade. 

  • Director of Student Life - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett oversees our special events and field trips while also handling our middle school counseling duties. 

  • Director of Student Development - Dylan Higgins (dylan.higgins@tcslions.org)

    • Mr. Higgins oversees the spiritual development of our student body while also assisting with discipline issues. 

  • Upper Elementary RTA Coordinator - Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Hanson can assist you with makeup work due to any extended absences.

 

Inside the Pride Upper Elementary School News - Volume 187

Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Upper Elementary School

Published September 17, 2023

Volume 187

 

Adam Vinson - Upper Elementary School Principal

 

A MESSAGE FROM MR. VINSON

Homecoming Week is here, and we are excited to celebrate our TCS Lion spirit all week long! Be sure to check out the themed dress up days for this week along with the guidelines for creating your daily outfits. Also, don’t forget, we have an exciting Homecoming Parade to kick off the week on Monday evening along with our game against North Clayton under the lights on Friday to close out the week. Don’t miss out on these opportunities! Come join us and experience the Trinity family together.

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Let me know how our team is doing in keeping you informed about your child’s education this year. If you are lacking communication regarding one of your child’s classes, please let me know so I can help! adam.vinson@tcslions.org

MARK YOUR CALENDARS: UPCOMING UPPER ELEMENTARY DATES

  • Sept 20 - 4th Grade Gwinnett Stripers Education Baseball Game

  • Sept 18-22 - Homecoming Week

  • Sept 26 - House Color Day

  • Sept 28 - Family Night (No Homework and No Studying!)

  • Oct 6 - Remote Learning Day

  • Oct 9 - Fall Break

  • Oct 13 - Picture Retakes

LAST WEEK IN CHAPEL

Mr. Vinson spoke to our students from Numbers 13-14 about the 12 spies who scouted on Canaan prior to Israel entering the Promised Land. Using the character trait of the Robinson House (Stand Against Culture When It’s Wrong), Mr. Vinson used the example of Joshua and Caleb to remind our students of the importance of standing up and advocating for what is right, even when the majority around you may be doing the wrong thing. Ask your child if they can remember the special song we sung in chapel to help us remember this story!

LIONS OF THE WEEK

Students who have been recognized by their teachers for setting a good example and making right choices during the school day. 

  • 4th Grade - Scarlett Wilson

  • 5th Grade - Ciel Watson

THIS WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE: 

As you may notice, our 4th-8th graders memorize the same verses each year. These memory verses are selected intentionally based on the promises and truths they contain that are so relevant for our students as they learn to follow Jesus. Our hope is that these 20 verses will be remembered for years to come after being memorized for multiple years in Upper Elementary and Middle School.

I John 1:5-6

v. 5 This is the message we have heard from Him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all. v. 6 If we say we have fellowship with Him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.

HOUSE FOCUS: THE ROBINSON HOUSE

Our House System at TCS is designed to introduce our elementary and middle school students to important historical Christian figures who exhibit character qualities that we hope to see exemplified in our own student body as well. This week, we are focusing on the ROBINSON HOUSE. 

Character Trait to Remember : Stand Against Culture When It’s Wrong

Who was he? Jackie Robinson became the first African-American professional baseball player in Major League Baseball when he broke the color barrier in 1947.

Learn more about Jackie Robinson by watching the video we showed in chapel this week

 
 

Homecoming Dress Down Guidelines:

  • No spaghetti straps, tank tops, or tops with low V neck

  • Holes/rips/tears in jeans should not be above the knee  

  • Mesh/see-thru tops should not be worn unless there is a full coverage top underneath it.  

  • Shirts should touch the top of the pants, shorts, skirt, etc - if you lift your arms and we can see your skin it is too short.

  • Shorts must be no more than 5 inches above the knee (about the length of an index card). 

  • Skirts must be no more than 2 inches above the knee (unless full leggings are worn underneath). 

  • Hats may be worn all week. 

  • Boys shirts must stay buttoned. 

  • Full spandex body suits are not allowed. 

  • Leggings can only be worn Monday - Wednesday with a fingertip length skirt or top over the leggings (as long as students are dressed up according to theme).

  • Shoes can be open-toe and open back for this week only.

HOUSE COMPETITION: EARN POINTS

As part of our Homecoming Week, we are offering our elementary grades the chance to earn house points by participating in each day’s dress up theme! Students can earn points EACH DAY by choosing to dress up. The House who earns the most points will be rewarded with a Pajama Day!

FAMILY NIGHT: QUARTER 1

What is “Family Night”? Each quarter this school year we want to offer a night with NO HOMEWORK and NO REQUIRED STUDYING! Our hope is to give your family a night to enjoy together in the midst of a busy semester. Our first Family Night of the year will be Thursday, September 28. This means NO HOMEWORK on Thursday night and NO TESTS OR QUIZZES on Friday! Start planning now for a fun night together!

BLACKBAUD CLASSROOM INFORMATION

Blackbaud is going to be your main source of information this year. Once you login, you will see a drop down arrow in the top left corner to choose which student’s information to look at. When you click on your 4th or 5th grade student, you will see summary information, and then when you scroll down, you will see each of your student’s classes. Each class is clickable. Please click on your student’s homeroom class to see the weekly newsletter for 4th or 5th grade. Once you are in your student’s homeroom class, it will open up the Bulletin Board. Here is where you will find the clickable link for the newsletter that will be added each week. Any important information for the week will be found here. 

To find information on each specific class, you will go back to the main page for your student and click on each individual class. Again, when you click on the desired class, it will open to that class’ Bulletin Board. Here you will find helpful information such as what to do should your student be absent. For information regarding lesson plans that will include the plans for the week, homework assignments, and any upcoming tests, quizzes, or projects, you will need to click on the “Topics” tab.

To recap:

  • Weekly newsletter is found on your student’s homeroom Bulletin Board.

  • Lesson plans, assignments, etc…are found in the specific classes Topic tab.

JUST READ QUARTER 1 

We want to invite all of our 4th and 5th graders to participate in our voluntary reading program this year called “Just Read”. Appropriately named, we “just want our students reading” outside of class time independently. Students should use the form below to record their reading for Q1 (first 9 weeks of school). Completed forms should be returned to your child’s homeroom teacher at the end of Quarter, with a prize coming from Mr. Vinson to all who complete the challenge!

Quarter 1 Just Read Form

UPPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RESOURCES

HOUSE SYSTEM COMPETITION

Check out who is leading the competition at www.tcshouses.weebly.com. 

23/24 SCHOOL CALENDAR: Stay in the know about upcoming breaks and holidays.

DRESS CODE OVERVIEW - Check out this year’s guidelines

PRE-ABSENCE FORM - Submit pre-planned absences 5 days ahead of time for approval.

GENERAL REMINDERS

REMINDER: BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 

Would you like to celebrate your child’s birthday this year? Consider one of the following options as a way to make their day special. 

  • Purchase birthday cart treat items from our snack cart for your child’s homeroom class for $25. Email our Director of Student Life, Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org), if you would like to schedule a day. 

    • PLEASE GIVE A 2-DAY NOTICE SO PREPARATIONS CAN BE MADE

  • Send in prepackaged birthday treats purchased from a store for the homeroom class. 

  • Join your child for lunch (beginning in September) in the cafeteria. 

REMINDER: ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES

The following steps should be taken for reporting absences for 4th - 8th grade:

  • Send excuses for absences, including doctor’s notes to attendance@tcslions.org.

  • Send PRE-ABSENCE REQUESTS (family trips, etc.) to Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) via your child’s homeroom teacher. 

If your child has to miss class this year due to sickness or quarantine, check out our process below for getting your child caught up on missing work and assignments. Please also notify the nursing team to make them aware of surgeries or long-term illnesses at nurses@tcslions.org.

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 1-5 DAYS? - Have your child connect with their teachers upon their return to the classroom. We will not send makeup work home for sick absences of this length through our Return to Academics program. 

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT 5+ DAYS? - Reach out to Kasey Hanson (Return to Academics Coordinator) so we can best determine a makeup plan for your child. Mrs. Hanson will help collect makeup work for you to simplify the process. 

  • NOTE: If your child is sick, we want your child to focus on resting and healing before worrying about missing assignments. Please know our teachers will work diligently to help your child catch up once they are feeling well enough to complete assignments.

(pictured l to r) Mrs. McBurnett, Mrs. Lanier, Mr. Higgins, and Mrs. Hanson

Check out our list of administrative faculty below who can help support you with all of your needs throughout this year.

UPPER ELEMENTARY ADMIN TEAM: WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

  • 4th Grade Academic Coordinator - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett can assist you with any academic-related needs for 4th grade.

  • 5th Grade Academic Coordinator - Melissa Lanier (melissa.lanier@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Lanier can assist you with any academic-related needs for 5th grade. 

  • Director of Student Life - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)

    • Mrs. McBurnett oversees our special events and field trips while also handling our middle school counseling duties. 

  • Director of Student Development - Dylan Higgins (dylan.higgins@tcslions.org)

    • Mr. Higgins oversees the spiritual development of our student body while also assisting with discipline issues. 

  • Upper Elementary RTA Coordinator - Kasey Hanson (kasey.hanson@tcslions.org) 

    • Mrs. Hanson can assist you with makeup work due to any extended absences.