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Hickory Tree Elementary School

Every Day is Day One!

Hawks Weekly Newsletter: 11/10-11/14

Posted Date: 11/08/25 (2:00 PM)

The Hickory Tree Elementary School logo features a hawk mascot.

"The One With All The Information" Week 14

Weekly Newsletter: November 10th-14th

A yellow frame with a purple background displays the word 'HAWKS'.

A Message from Administration

Hello Hawk Families!

It’s hard to believe we’re already halfway through the second quarter, the year is flying by! We’ve seen incredible teaching, learning, and student growth happening across campus. Our classrooms are buzzing with excitement as students track their goals, celebrate progress, and take ownership of their learning.

We’re so proud of our Hawks for the way they’ve embraced data chats, goal setting, and Progress Learning practice. Every day, we see students challenging themselves to improve, whether it’s reading just a little longer, mastering a new math skill, or beating their last quiz score. These are the daily moments that lead to big success.

Thank you, families, for your continued partnership. Your encouragement at home truly makes a difference. We couldn’t do this work without your support, your communication, and your trust. As we move closer to PM2 testing, let’s keep working together to help every student reach their personal best.

With appreciation,
Mrs. Miller and Mrs. Vargas


REMINDER:
DON'T FORGET TO JOIN US FOR A SPIRIT NIGHT AT POPS AND WAFFLES ICE CREAM!
WHEN: WEDNESDAY 11/12
TIME: 2:00PM-9:00PM
MENTION HICKORY TREE!

NEW PROGRAM: PROGRESS LEARNING
Don't forget to use the new PROGRESS LEARNING program available to all students through Classlink.

This computer-based program will provide remediation and enrichment for all students in K-5 Reading, Math, and Science. We encourage your student to take advantage of this valuable tool at home.

Students work on their Study Plan, at their pace, as they review foundational skills designed to build fluency and understanding. Access is available via Class Link. We encourage students to use the program several times a week as they sharpen their knowledge in preparation for the upcoming PM2 State Exam.

Other tips for at home support include:
  • Set aside 20 minutes a day for reading together. Ask questions about the story to check for understanding.
  • Encourage curiosity! Let your child choose topics they love to read about — animals, space, sports, or adventures.
  • Model reading — let your child see you enjoying books, magazines, or even recipes!
  • Visit Florida DOE Reading Tips for Parents for great family-friendly resources.
  • Check your child's agenda daily!
  • Review your child's homework with them upon completion.
  • Use the practice programs provided to students daily!

Our teachers continue to deliver top-notch instruction each day — using data, small groups, and creative lessons to help every student grow. Please continue encouraging your child to:

  • Attend school every day (unless sick).
ATTENDANCE MATTERS!
  • Complete homework and practice assignments.
  • Set goals and celebrate small wins!
  • Encourage positive behavior when in class.

Small moments at home can make a big impact on your child’s confidence and success at school.
veterans day
Veterans Day & School Closure
There will be no school on Tuesday, November 11th in observance of Veterans Day.

However, we will be holding our annual Veterans Day Ceremony on Monday, November 10th, to honor and celebrate the brave men and women who have served our country. This special event is one of our favorite traditions, reminding our students about courage, sacrifice, and gratitude.

Students are encouraged to wear red, white, and blue as we come together to say thank you to our heroes — past and present.


📊 Quarter 2 Progress Reports
Q2 Progress Reports will be posted this Friday, November 14th in the Focus Parent Portal! This marks the halfway point of the second quarter, and believe it or not, almost the halfway point of our school year!

Please take time this week to sit with your child and review their grades together. Have a conversation about their goals:

  • What are they most proud of so far?
  • What areas need a little extra effort?
  • What steps can they take to improve or maintain their strengths?

A few small habits make a big difference! Encourage your child to:

  • Read nightly
  • Practice fluency facts for just a few minutes each evening.
  • Log in to Progress Learning every night for review, assignments, or study plan practice.

Your involvement and encouragement are key to helping them stay on track and finish the quarter strong!

🚀 PM2 Testing – Coming in December
Our PM2 Testing Window begins in December! Every student has a personal growth goal to meet based on their PM1 score and their year-end PM3 goal. Teachers are holding one-on-one goal-setting conversations with students to review their progress and plan next steps.

We encourage you to have this same conversation at home! Ask your child about their PM2 goal — what it is, how they plan to reach it, and how you can help support them along the way.

Students who meet or exceed their PM2 goals will earn special incentives and celebrations! 🎉
👉 See the attached flyer for details!
Together, let’s make sure our Hawks soar on PM2!


IMPORTANT UPCOMING DATES AND EVENTS:
  • November 3rd-13th: Thanksgiving Food Drive
  • November 10th: Veteran's Day Event - 8:30am - students wear red, white, and blue
  • November 10th-21st: Color Run (Run will take place on 11/21)
  • November 11th: Veteran's Day: NO SCHOOL
  • November 12th: Pops and Waffles Spirit Night
  • November 14th: Q2 Progress Reports
  • November 14th: Wear Orange for Anti-bullying
  • November 18th: SAC/PTA Meeting - 4pm and 5pm
  • November 18th: Village Inn Spirit Night
  • November 20th: Hawk of the Month Ceremony - 8:45am-9:45am
  • November 24th-28th: Thanksgiving Break - NO SCHOOL
  • December 1st: Monthly School Dress Down Day - myschoolbucks.com payment required
  • December 1st-19th - FAST PM2 Testing Window
  • December 8th-10th: PTA Holiday Shoppe
  • December 15th-19th: Holiday Dress Down Week
  • December 22nd-January 2nd - Winter Break - NO School