Welcome Back to Michelle Obama Elementary School!
Aug 4, 2023
Principal
It is my extreme honor to be named your Principal. As a former Newark student, who ironically sat in the same school building of Michelle Obama Elementary School as a young learner, I feel like my journey as an educator and leader has come full circle. I am thrilled that you have selected to entrust your child’s academic future to Michelle Obama Elementary School. We will create the new leaders of this world.
The start of school is fast approaching! Below you will find important dates and information to prepare.
- First Day of School – Tuesday, September 5, 2023.
- School Hours – 8:25 a.m. - 2:55 p.m.
- School Uniform Colors – White shirt, Burgundy Sweater/Skirt/Jumper/Tie, Gray Pants. Students can wear black shoes or sneakers. Students are not to wear flip flops or open toe shoes.
- New student registration continues throughout the month of August. All students must be registered before September 5, 2023 to ensure a seat.
- Meet and Greet with teachers will be in the playground on Saturday, August 26, 2023 (10:00am - 2:00 pm).
- School Supply Lists are posted on our school’s website and will be provided on the first day of school by your child’s teacher.
- Lunch Applications MUST be completed for all students. We can help you get started.
- Back to School Night is on Thursday, September 21, 2022, 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. You will have the opportunity to hear more about our core values, partnerships, and district curriculum. Please join us for this important informational evening.
- EXCITING NEWS!!! The after school program will begin on the first day of school! I will have a mandatory meeting with all families interested in the after school program on Thursday, August 24th at 6:00pm via WebEx. If interested, please email Ms. Paige at tpaige@newark.apppresser.com for the WebEx link
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I hope all of our students have been enjoying their summer reading. A reminder of the grade level titles is listed below. Let’s keep our babies reading.
Rising Pre-K 4
I Like Myself by Karen Beaumont
Here's a little girl who knows what really matters. Even as she imagines herself with increasingly silly physical features, this indomitable little girl’s sense of self-worth remains strong. Sassy and soulful, this book is sure to inspire every child to revel in his or her own special uniqueness.
Rising Kindergarten
Jabari Jumps by Gala Cornwall
Jabari is the story of a little boy finding the courage to take his first jump off the diving board. His supportive family helps him find the moment that is just right for him.
Rising 1st Grade
Just Help! How to Build a Better World by Sonia Sotomayor
In a story inspired by her own family’s desire to help others, Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor takes young readers on a journey through a neighborhood where kids and adults, activists and bus drivers, friends and strangers all help one another to build a better world for themselves and their community.
Rising 2nd Grade
The Water Princess by Susan Verde
As a child in Burkina Faso, Georgie and the other girls in her village had to walk for miles each day to collect water. This vibrant, engaging picture book sheds light on this struggle that continues all over the world today, instilling hope for a future when all children will have access to clean drinking water.
Rising 3rd Grade
Ada Twist and the Perilous Pants by Andrea Beaty
Ada must rely on her curious mind, her brave spirit, and her best pals Rosie Revere and Iggy Peck to solve a mystery in her own backyard. When Rosie Revere’s Uncle Ned gets a little carried away wearing his famous helium pants, it’s up to Ada and friends to chase him down. As Uncle Ned floats farther and farther away, Ada starts asking lots of questions: How high can a balloon float? Is it possible for Uncle Ned to float into outer space? And what’s the best plan for getting him down?
Rising 4th Grade
J.D. and the Great Barber Battle by J. Dillard
J. Dillard’s debut book is filled with haircuts and humor…but it’s also about community, being creative, fitting in, and standing out. It’s a book that’s fun to read, with a healthy opportunity to learn some on-the-ground financial literacy fundamentals. Readers will cheer for J.D. as he pushes down barriers that keep him from being his dope self.
At the heart of my practice is building strong relationships with the staff, students, and families I serve. I look forward to listening to your ideas and expectations of our school and collaborating with each of you to support our sense of community here at Michelle Obama Elementary School. As your Principal, I will strive to ensure that all families feel welcome and connected to our school family. Please be on the lookout for upcoming Principal Chats and family events, but also know that I would love to hear from you at any time.
Sending you love with a dove,
Principal LaShanda Gilliam