
Due to issues beyond our control, Alma Spikes will continue to be virtual this Thursday and Friday. At this time we plan to reopen “on-campus” learning, Monday, January 25. We understand that this can be an inconvenience but thank you for your understanding.

Most students are currently scheduled to return to campus on Jan. 21st. Contacts are being made to students that will have to quarantine through Jan. 25th. Please refer to the district webpage if you need to request a meal from the cafeteria for virtual days.

Alma Spikes Elementary will be pivoting to virtual instruction starting Thursday, Jan. 14 through Wednesday, Jan. 20. Teachers will be sending information to students and will be live streaming each day. Please check your child's email for details about their class meetings.

Due to the limited number of available staff and the hope of reducing the number of possible Covid-19 contacts, after school tutoring will be canceled on 1/11/21 and 1/13/21.

The Duck bus is being double routed this afternoon (1/07/2021). Please expect a delay in your child's arrival home this afternoon if they ride the Duck bus. Thank you for your patience!

Happy New Year from Alma Spikes Elementary!!!! We return to campus next Monday, January 4th.
If you have questions about your child returning to school due to contact with positive Covid 19 cases over the break, please touch base with our District Point of Contact.
Marlow Wardlow, M.Ed.
870-810-7409
marlo.wardlow@pocahontaspsd.com

We have officially made it to Thanksgiving break without closing Alma Spikes for an unscheduled day.
We are currently preparing for school after the break. I have asked all teachers to send home Chromebooks and materials so students will have them at home. Obviously, students do not have assignments to complete over the break but with rising Covid cases in the state, I want us to be prepared for virtual classes if necessary.
Thanksgiving is designed for family gatherings and spending time with loved ones. Please be careful and take precautions as needed, to ensure a peaceful and healthy return to school after the break.
We look forward to welcoming everyone back to the building on November 30, 2020!

Alma Spikes Cohort Redesign:
We have been working with the design of small groups (cohorts) within each classroom. The intent was to limit the point of contacts to the smallest groups necessary. We have followed this approach as much as possible to this point.
Last week we used the approach to limit the number of people needing to quarantine in a Kindergarten classroom but within a week another student in the room that was part of a different cohort and wasn’t quarantined, tested positive. We cannot be absolutely sure that the second positive was contracted in the classroom, but we also cannot rule out that possibility.
Therefore, we are making a fundamental change. Each classroom is now it’s own cohort. If a positive case appears within a classroom, that entire room will have to be quarantined.
Teachers are still encouraged to use social distancing within the classrooms to hopefully limit actual contact or the spread of any illness. Teachers are being instructed to closely monitor their contact to other individuals within six feet for fifteen minutes over a twenty-four hour period. We will always want to err on the side of caution and be proactive with any positive cases identified.
We understand that this may increase the number of students and staff that have to be quarantined as an unfortunate side-effect. However, the safety and health of students and staff should be the first issue of concern.
Thank you for your understanding and support in this matter.

iPad found on Highland Blvd. It was turned in to the Alma Office. Access code required to collect the device.

Picture Retake Day @ Alma Spikes!!!
Retake day is November 18th, next Wednesday.
This is for anyone who missed the original picture day or anyone who wants their picture retaken.
10:00-11:00 is set aside for Virtual students.
Order forms are in the office or you can order online @:
mylifetouch.com
Use the Picture Day ID: EVTZHHWC7

Alma Spikes is currently experiencing internet and phone difficulties.

Alma Parents, Please Help!
We are still exchanging school face masks each day with laundered ones. We are losing masks because they are not being worn back to school for the exchange.
Please check at home, in backpacks, cars and anywhere a mask may have be left. We need all masks returned so they can go back into the rotation.

Yearbook sales will ONLY be online this year. The link below should take you to the purchase site. Cost is $15.
Use Reference Code: A01000465
(Copy and Paste this Link if needed)
https://www.jostens.com/yearbooks/students-and-parents/about-yearbooks

Attention Alma Parents.
At this time we are in regular attendance tomorrow, Friday, October 9.
Chromebooks and materials were sent home today as a precaution. Please be sure to have students return with all materials tomorrow.

Reminder: Fundraiser materials are due tomorrow.

Alma Spikes Spirit Week 2020
October 12-16
Monday-Character Day (Favorite Character from movies, tv, books)
Tuesday-Senior Citizen Day (Dress like you are 80 years old)
Wednesday-Decade Day (Dress according to your favorite decade, ex: 60s, 70s, 80s)
Thursday-Career Day (Dress for the job you want)
Friday-Red and White Day

Fall Fun Day!!! October 30th
In place of our Fall Festival, students and teachers are encouraged to dress up on October 30th. During this time of guidelines and restrictions, we thought students would enjoy a light hearted costume day. (Instruction and/or assessment will still take place.)
Please remember: costumes should be tasteful, non violent, and not scary. (Toy knives and toy guns are not permitted. Individual grade levels or classrooms may be holding other activities as well.)

Picture Day!!!!!!
Lifetouch will be on campus Monday, October 5th. We will start sending students for pictures as soon as possible that morning. Be sure to complete the order form and send it with your child that day since parents aren’t allowed to enter the building for this event.
Online ordering can be done at: mylifetouch.com
The Picture Day ID code is: EVT8SKXHS
Virtual Students are invited to come to the building between 1:00-2:00 that afternoon for a limited contact photo time.
Since these are the photos used in the yearbook, everyone will have their picture taken.

Alma Spikes will have fall pictures taken on Monday, October 5th. There will be a designated time separate from others, for virtual students that wish to have pictures taken. That time will be announced asap.

In addition to the Duck bus being double routed, the DEER BUS will also be double routed this afternoon (9/22). Please expect a delay in your child's arrival home this afternoon if they ride the Duck or DEER bus. Thank you for your patience!

Duck bus is being double routed this afternoon (9/22). Please expect a delay in your child's arrival home this afternoon if they ride the Duck bus. Thank you for your patience!

Alma Spikes Virtual Day Update!!
Some Alma teachers have already communicated with parents about what time they will be going "LIVE" tomorrow, please follow those communications from teachers first. If you haven't been told a time to go "LIVE" by your classroom teacher-I am moving that start time to 8:15. I had to move that time back from 8:00 due to some details we will have to take care of on campus.

Duck bus is being double routed this afternoon (9/21). Please expect a delay in your child's arrival home this afternoon if they ride the Duck bus. Thank you for your patience!

ALMA SPIKES VIRTUAL DAY!! (repost)
Our first scheduled virtual day test run is coming up this Wednesday, September 23. This is a district wide test. We are asking that everyone try the virtual approach on this day. Buses will not transport students on this day. By this time, all students should have logged into their Google Classroom on their Chromebooks and it is a simple matter of logging into that classroom on Wednesday. I'm asking all teachers to start at 8:00 that morning with a live feed. They can then set their schedule for the day with their classrooms. There are sure to be problems that arise so please be patient with the system. Teachers may be communicating via email, social media or even text. Please pay attention to all communication avenues if problems do develop.

Duck bus is double routed today. If your child rides the Duck bus, expect delays in their arrival home. Thank you for your patience!
This Friday, September 11th, watch your Pocahontas Redskins take on the Paragould Rams at 7:00pm. Live on your home for Redskins sports, PSD-TV.
https://youtu.be/ItvCXyXgKdk
Watch live tonight at 7:00pm as your Pocahontas Redskins take on the Nettleton Raiders on PSD-TV, your student led home for Redskins sports.
https://youtu.be/R4qljmIfflc
Covid-19 do not send to school document
https://5il.co/kjch
First week of school letter to parents.
https://5il.co/kjev
Message from Superintendent Jerry Martens on the upcoming millage vote.
https://youtu.be/FVK1JtAkHDo

Chromebook Distribution: Alma Spikes
District Tech will be on campus from 3:30 to 7:00 today, August 27th. This is for Kindergarten Orientation. However, it would also be a good time for 1st or 2nd to collect theirs if needed. Completing the Chromebook Agreement on the district site is always the best place to start.

Kindergarten Orientation is tomorrow!!!!! Thursday, Aug. 27th
Once again, it will be a drop in from 3:30-7:00. Parents will enter the building at the office door and exit at the far end. Visitors to building will be monitored and limited numbers in each room at one time. Please be patient when waiting and observe social distancing. Students are encouraged to bring their school supplies and leave them in their classrooms. We'll see you tomorrow afternoon.

Alma Spikes Chromebook Distribution:
First and Second Grade:
District Tech will be on Campus Monday, August 24th at 10:00 for first and second grade parents that need to complete the Chromebook checkout. They will be located in front of the cafeteria. Parents can complete the Chromebook agreement online or on paper. Doing so before coming to campus will help speed up the process. If the form is completed online, parents will not need to bring anything with them, that information is available to tech immediately.
Kindergarten:
District Tech will be located in front of the cafeteria during the 1:00 pick up time for Kindergarten parents. Tech will also be on campus for the Drop-In Orientation on August 27th from 3:30-7:00. Parents can pick up their child’s Chromebook at that time if they wish. Parents can complete the Chromebook agreement online or on paper. Doing so before coming to campus will help speed up the process. If the form is completed online, parents will not need to bring anything with them, that information is available to tech immediately.
Social Distancing and or Masks are required at all events.

Dear Parents,
This is an odd thing to announce for Alma Spikes Elementary because it is the opposite of what we have always been about.
However, I am notifying parents of the following requirements:
Parents are not allowed to enter the building.
(Drop-In Orientation is approved with special considerations to follow.)
Flowers/Gift deliveries to the building are not allowed.
Lunch/Food deliveries to the building are not allowed.
If a student isn’t eating from the lunchroom, they must bring their lunch to school with them. If they do not bring their lunch with them, they will be required to take a tray from the cafeteria.
Pick ups or drop offs during the day:
Parents will interact with the office at the stand in front of the office window. You will not enter the building or the office. There is an intercom located at the stand directly connected to the office. There is also a drop box located at the stand if items need to be exchanged.
Shawn Carter
Principal, Alma Spikes Elementary

Alma Spikes Elementary-Change to Mask Collection Plan
I have been reviewing our plans as we are about to kick off the first day of school. I believe a change in our mask collection plan is necessary.
New Plan Details:
Each student will be assigned two masks to rotate on a daily schedule.
The third mask provided by the district will be held in reserve for replacement needs.
Masks will be collected in the classroom each morning and students will be given their second mask to wear for that day and evening. Collected masks will be washed/disinfected at school each day to be distributed the next day. Masks will go home with each student every afternoon and need to be worn back each morning.
Each mask will be connected to the student with a safety lanyard. This is in hopes of helping students keep up with their mask and will prevent masks from being swapped.
It is extremely important for each student to keep up with their assigned mask and return each day with that mask.
Students are welcome to provide and wear their own mask from home. Those masks will not be collected or washed/disinfected at school. It will be the parents’ responsibility to clean their own masks.

Kindergarten Assessment Week: August 24-28
Incoming Kindergarten students that have registered should have a letter stating which day to attend for assessment.
If you have an incoming Kindergarten student and do not have this assessment date assignment it means that we do not have the student registered. You need to visit school to register and get your assessment day assigned.
On assessment days (August 24, 25 and 26):
Kindergarten Teachers will gather the students at the front of Alma Spikes. Parents will deliver their child to the assigned teacher. At that moment, parents should tell the teacher who will be picking the child up at the end of the day. Parents cannot enter the building.
Students will be given a temporary mask for the day if they need one. Students are free to wear their own.
Students are assigned to one classroom being supervised by one Para. Teachers will rotate from one classroom to the next, assessing each student. Social distancing and proper mask protocol will be followed.
Students will have lunch and recess.
Parents will be able to pick up students at 1:00 if they would like to. Pick up will be through the office. Parents can approach the stand in front of the office window. Press the talk button. The office staff will need the child’s name and who the assigned assessment teacher is for the day. The student will be escorted to the front door and delivered to the parent/identified pick up.
District Tech will be located at the front of the building during the 1:00 pick up time. Parents can pick up their child’s Chromebook at that time. Parents can complete the Chromebook agreement online or on paper. Doing so before coming to campus will help speed up the process. If the form is completed online, parents will not need to bring anything with them, that information is available to tech immediately. Tech will also be on campus for the Drop-In Orientation.
Kindergarten Drop-In Orientation will be Thursday, August 27, from 3:30-7:00. Parents will be able to meet their child’s assigned teacher and drop off school supplies. Class list will be posted on the windows that morning. Covid guidelines will be followed. The number of individuals in the building will be monitored and limited, masks will be required. As of now, this will be the only time parents will be able to visit classrooms.
Disclaimer: Plans can change due to restrictions or requirements.

If you did not pick up a Chromebook during one of our drive-thru pickup days, students may pick them up on the first day of school. Technology Staff will be located at MDW, PJHS, & PHS at 8am (Alma at 10am), on the first day of school to hand out Chromebooks to any student that has yet to receive one. A signed online form or a signed paper form must be present in order for them to receive their device. If you do not submit one online, please send a signed paper copy with your child on the first day of school. You can fill one out online here. https://bit.ly/2Yj06rs

Kindergarten Registration! If your child turned five on or before August 1, 2020, they are eligible for Kindergarten. Visit Alma Spikes asap to complete the required paperwork and be assigned an assessment date for next week. Every incoming Kindergartner needs one.

Hey Parent! Great news!
The Tumblebook library is up and running for students.
Go to the address below and use the provided username and password to access the online library.
www.tumblebooklibrary.com
Username: aspikes
Password: reads

Alma Spikes Elementary would like to thank Farmers and Merchants Bank for providing our staff lunch and back to school gifts today.

Alma Spikes Orientation-Open House 2020-2021
Preschool, First Grade and Second Grade will be taking drop in visitation on August 11, 2020 from 1:00-7:00 pm.
Any student that did not attend Alma Spikes last year in K-2 should come to register. This includes incoming Preschool students, incoming Kindergarten students and students opting for the virtual classroom. Any student that did attend Alma Spikes last year should find their name on the classroom placement list.
Students and parents will be able to go to their classroom to meet the teacher and drop off supplies. Classroom placements are posted at the front of the building.
There are of course some guidelines to follow. Paraprofessionals will be posted at the entry doors to limit the number of people in the classrooms at one time. So please be patience. Masks will be required inside any building. Social distancing is required while waiting to enter the building. Designated entry points will be identified. Our goal is to continue involving our parents as much as possible, while complying with regulations. We appreciate your help toward this goal.
Remember: Kindergarten registration will take place tomorrow the 11th, but classroom visits are not planned until Kindergarten Open House on August 27th.

You can now electronically submit the Chromebook 1:1 Program Agreement and Opt-Out Forms at the bottom of our Chromebook page under Submit Online. https://www.pocahontaspsd.com/o/district/page/chromebook-1-1--2

Alma Spikes Elementary classroom postings will now be on August 10th.

Virtual Classroom Survey. Please complete as soon as possible. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/3NTNRDT We truly need this information by Wednesday, August 5th. This will push back classroom placement postings.
Virtual learning with Mr. Jerry Martens.
https://youtu.be/Tvb_N3oElgY

Alma Spikes Orientation-Open House 2020-2021 Details
Preschool, First Grade and Second Grade will be taking drop in visitation on August 11, 2020 from 1:00-7:00 pm.
Students and parents will be able to go to their classroom to meet the teacher and drop off supplies. Classroom assignments will be posted at the front of the building on August 5, 2020.
There are of course some guidelines to follow.
Paraprofessionals will be posted at the entry doors to limit the number of people in the classrooms at one time. So please be patience.
Masks will be required inside any building.
Social distancing is required while waiting to enter the building.
Designated entry points will be identified.
The staff will be meeting on this Monday to design any other details for the Open House.
Our goal is to continue involving our parents as much as possible, while complying with regulations. We appreciate your help toward this goal.
Remember: Kindergarten Open House will be August 27th. Registration will take place on the 11th but classroom visits are not planned for Kindergarten on August 11th.

I failed to add this line to the bottom of the last post. However, since it applies to all plan, I'll post it as a stand alone announcement.
All Plans are subject to change with newly established guidelines and/or restrictions .

Alma Spikes Mask Rotation Plan:
The district has stated that they will provide three cloth masks for each student and teacher. This plan is based on rotating those mask.
Students will wear face masks any time they are transitioning around the building. Their mask will be attached to a safety lanyard so it hangs around their neck when not in use. This will make it easier to keep the mask with them and prevent them from accidentally using someone else's mask.
As students leave the building for recess, they will place their mask and lanyard in their class's laundry bag. The collected mask will be laundered and dispensed back to them the next day. (We will use disinfecting hypo allergenic detergents.)
At the end of recess, teachers will gather their classes on the playground (socially distancing) and dispense a laundered mask and attached lanyard.
IMPORTANT! Students will be responsible for wearing their mask home and back to school the next day. Students arriving to school without their mask will be given one to wear until recess, when they will be given their classroom mask as normal. I suggest that students attach their mask to their backpack or school bag each afternoon after leaving campus or the school bus.
Playground duty teachers will wear their mask when they are unable to socially distance on the playground.
Students will be encouraged to play with their classroom cohort group and/or socially distance from individuals outside their cohort. These measures should allow students to play outside without a mask.
Water fountains will be used for bottle refilling only, no direct drinking from a fountain will be allowed. Water bottles CAN NOT be glass and should be clear.

Alma Spikes Classroom Arrangement Plan.
Recommendations are allowing students in classrooms to be separated into groups. I'll refer to these groups as "cohorts".
Teachers will be dividing students into cohorts with less than 10 students each.
Each cohort will be assigned to certain areas within the room. These areas can change and/or rotate as long as they are cleaned between cohort usage.
Grouping into these cohorts should allow students and teachers the ability to go without masks inside their cohorts.
We are reviewing clear protective dividers to be used during small group instruction so mask would not be required there either.
Mask will be required during transitions outside the classrooms. My next post will be outlining the building mask plan.
All Plans are subject to change with newly established guidelines and/or restrictions .

Attention!!!! Second Grade Parents
I was able to purchase three inch binders for all students through our school budget so parents don't have to buy them. Please do not purchase the three inch binder listed on the second grade supply list, it will be provided.

Chromebook/Online/Virtual:
Chromebooks:
All students will be assigned a Chromebook. Parents can opt out of the Chromebook program if they prefer to use their own devices. There are forms that parents must sign for either situation.
On campus students can take their Chromebooks to and from school as directed by individual classroom teachers. However; classrooms will not have Chromebook carts for charging since each device(including chargers) will be assigned to individual students
Daily use Chromebooks can be checked out in the library if a child forgets their device at home. These will be limited, so responsible device usage will be very important.
Online Instruction:
Classroom teachers will be posting lessons and assignments online.
Activity teachers will post lessons addressing curriculum standards for their subject areas.
Virtual Classroom:
Full time virtual students have not yet been identified. If enough virtual students register, we would like to assign one virtual teacher to a virtual classroom per grade level. They would live stream instructional lessons for that virtual classroom.
All Plans are subject to change with newly established guidelines and/or restrictions .

Alma Spikes New Student Registration!
August 11, 2020 from 1:00-7:00 p.m.
Transfer students for First and Second Grade will need to register at the office. They will immediately be assigned to a teacher and be able to visit the classroom at that time.
New students that plan to use the virtual option will still need to complete registration at the building during this time.
Parents will be asked to complete the Chromebook acceptance or denial form before leaving.
1. Due to the possibility of several people in the building at one time, we do ask that everyone wear a mask when you are not able to social distance.
2. All plans are subject to change with new guidelines and/or restrictions established.

Kindergarten Registration!!!!
August 11, 2020, 1:00-7:00 p.m.
All Kindergarten students registering for the 2020-2021 school year are asked to bring the following information.
Birth Certificate
Immunization Record
Social Security Card
Kindergarten Physical
(Students that attended Alma Spikes Preschool or Head Start Preschool should already have this on file at the building.)
This includes individuals that have already submitted a data form to the building and those interested in enrolling as a virtual student.
All incoming Kindergarten students will be assigned their pre-assessment date at this time of registering.
Pre-assessment defined: One third of the Kindergarten class will be brought into the building on August 24, 25, and 26. They will be assessed for basic entry level knowledge by Kindergarten teachers. This information is used to determine classroom placement for the grade level. These assessments will be finished by 1:00 p.m. each day and parents are welcome to pick their child up at that time on their assigned assessment day.
Placement will be completed on August 27th and Kindergarten Open House will be scheduled for that afternoon from 1:00 to 7:00 p.m. Parents will be asked to complete the Chromebook acceptance or denial form before leaving on August 27th. All Kindergarten students will attend for the first time on Friday, August 28th.
1. Due to the possibility of several people in the building at one time, we do ask that everyone wear a mask when you are not able to social distance.
2. All plans are subject to change with new guidelines and/or restrictions established.

Alma Spikes Orientation-Open House 2020-2021
We will be hosting an Open House in place of our traditional orientation night this year!
"Parents Make a Difference" School Visit 2020-2021
For: Preschool, First Grade and Second Grade
When: August 11, 2020, from 1:00-7:00 p.m.
Teachers will be in their rooms and available for visits from 1:00-7:00 p.m.
Students are encouraged to attend with a parent to meet their new teacher and drop off their supplies in the classroom.
Parents will be asked to complete the Chromebook acceptance or denial forms before leaving that day.
If you plan to use the Virtual option for those grade levels, this will also be the time to checkout a Chromebook or sign the denial form stating that you will use your own device. Therefore, still make plans to attend this Open House.
Looking forward to seeing you here!
Be on the lookout for the future post which will address new students and incoming Kindergartner registration.
1. Due to the possibility of several people in the building at one time, we do ask that everyone wear a mask when you are not able to social distance.
2. All plans are subject to change with new guidelines and/or restrictions established.
Pocahontas Public School District Opportunities for Learning 2020-2021
https://5il.co/igpy

Dear Alma Parents,
There are not many answers that can be given at this time but hopefully some information will be helpful.
Plans are currently being formulated about the opening of school. The American Academy of Pediatrics stated, "...all policy considerations for the coming school year should start with a goal of having students physically present in school." The state of Arkansas is following this idea. The district has formed our, "Ready for Learning" team that will be working on details of how school will be organized and more information will be shared from the district level. I am simply posting this for Alma Spikes parents because I know you are concerned about your child's school experience. Thank you for your patience and understanding that your child's school experience is important to us too.
In an effort to serve our patrons and students, please fill out the this form to give us as much information around your home internet situation. This info will help us understand and tailor our efforts to provide equal education to all.
https://forms.gle/ZHdLwrp5ULBbFCnw8

Alma Spikes Yearbooks are here!!!!! Distribution will be Tuesday, June 9th. From 9:00 to 3:00. Pull up to the front of the building and once purchase is verified, we will bring the book out to your car.

Reminder!!!!!! Alma Spikes student item pick up today. Parents are invited to drive through the parking lot to collect items from their classroom teacher. Yearbooks have still not arrived so that will be a later pickup. Distribution time will be 3:30-5:30

Alma Spikes will be having our second student material distribution next Monday, June 1st. Parents are invited to drive through the parking lot to collect items from their classroom teacher. Yearbooks have still not arrived so that will be a later pickup. Distribution time will be 3:30-5:30

We would like to thank Chad Overman and the American Made Store for helping us out during this fourth nine weeks. The use of his buildings was priceless.

Some have asked about the Self Reporting form for AMI days 1-9. Paper copies are in the distribution buildings or the link below will take you to the website to print one.
https://www.pocahontaspsd.com/o/alma-spikes/documents

Attention Parents!!! The Distribution Buildings will be closing on May 18th. That will be the last day to drop off completed AMI material in those buildings.

Alma Spikes Item distribution is tomorrow, Thursday, May 7th. Classroom teachers will be out front from 11:00-1:00 and 3:30-5:30. They will be lining the drive through at the front of the building. Cars will enter at the second grade playground entrance(bus entrance) and pull forward until they locate their classroom teacher. Remember: Social Distancing requires that you do not leave your vehicle.
Spring Pictures and Yearbooks have not arrived and therefore require another pickup later in May.
Thank you and we look forward to seeing you tomorrow.

PBS AMI Materials for Week 7, May 11-15, are now online. Paper copies will be in the distribution buildings tomorrow.
https://www.pocahontaspsd.com/o/alma-spikes/browse/130086

I found the problem with the previous link. This is updated link for PBS AMI Materials Week 6, May 4-8.
https://www.pocahontaspsd.com/o/alma-spikes/browse/127816

Alma Spikes-Student Item Distribution
Thursday, May 7th
Teachers will be stationed along the sidewalk at Alma Spikes to distribute their students' items. Parents will simply pull through the drive, stop at their child's teacher and be handed their bagged belongings.
Distribution Times: 11:00-1:00 and 3:30-5:30
Preschool - Second Grade
Distancing is still important so you are asked to remain in your vehicle. Do not walk up.
Please contact your classroom teacher directly if you prefer not to pick up your child's items.
Spring Pictures will be part of this pick up but yearbooks have not arrived. We can do a similar distribution when they come in.
Library and classroom books should be returned on this day as well. This will be a drive by drop off.
Thank you,
Shawn Carter

PBS AMI Material for Week 5, April 27-May 1.
https://www.pocahontaspsd.com/o/alma-spikes/browse/125576
I will be putting hard copies in the buildings on Thursday, April 23.

Alma Team: Relay for Life Challenge results.
Total raised by Alma Spikes students is $1786 !!!!!
The Winning classroom is Ms. Due with 217 links in their chain.
Second place went to Mrs. Simonton's room with 216 links.
Thanks to everyone for supporting the Alma Team and our Relay for Life Fundraiser.

I want to encourage parents to use EZschoolpay.com to close out their lunchroom charges as soon as possible. By Federal Guidelines, those accounts can not be in the negative at the end of the year. If you are not set up to pay online you can contact Mrs. Moore at the Central Office to make arrangements.

This page is also on our website under documents.
Alma Spikes Self Reporting for AMI Days 1-10
Student: _________________________________
Teacher: _________________________________
I verify, to Alma Spikes Elementary, that the student listed above, completed Alternative Method of Instruction (AMI) materials for days 1-9. These days are for March 17-20 and March 30-April 3. Day 10 doesn’t not need to be completed because we started week 2 of PBS AMI Materials on April 6.
I understand that credit is given for completion of the material and not the correctness of the answers given. By signing below, I am stating, as a fact, that the student completed the material to the best of their abilities.
Parent Signature: _______________________ Date: ________________
Student Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________
Returning this form:
Place a copy in the collection box at one of the distribution buildings or at the collection box at Alma Spikes Elementary.
Email a completed form to: almaspikesamireturns@pocahontaspsd.com

almaspikesamireturns@pocahontaspsd.com
I am worried that this link isn't working so you can type it in as:
alma spikes ami returnes@pocahontaspsd.com
No caps and no spaces.

You can send "Self Reporting" pages for Alma Spikes to:
almaspikesamireturnes@pocahontaspsd.com

The link below is for PBS-AMI Week 4, April 20-24. Please remember, the only thing that needs returned for Alma Spikes is the "Self Reporting" page. (Page 6).
http://www.pocahontaspsd.com/o/alma-spikes/browse/123011
You can email the "Self Reporting" page or a picture of the page to the email address below:
.
almaspikesamireturns@pocahontaspsd.com
If you email the page to this address, you do not need to turn in a hard copy.
I will also be building and sharing a "Self Reporting" page for AMI Days 1-10. If you haven't turned them in yet, you can email the reporting page to that address or drop the one page in the collection box.

Alma Spikes Nurse, Tiffany Gugle will be at the building for parents that need to pick up medicine from her office, Monday, April 20th from 11:00-12:00 noon. This is the third and final attempt to dispense medications. Individual appointments will have to be made after Monday.

Preschool Parents: Students that were, or are enrolled in the ABC Program are expected to complete AMI Packets. However, parent paid positions could not be expected to do so. If new directions are given by the state, I will relay them ASAP.

Alma Spikes Nurse, Tiffany Gugle will once again be at the building for parents that need to pick up medicine from her office. Wednesday, April 15 from 10:00-11:00 am.

Parents are asking about picking up student items such as classroom materials or supplies. The plan is to wait until Spring Pictures and Yearbooks have arrived so that all the pick ups can be done at one time. Projected for mid May. Thank you for your patience.

PBS AMI Material; Week 3, April 13-17 are now online at the link below. Copies will be place in distribution buildings by Friday afternoon or sooner.
http://www.pocahontaspsd.com/o/alma-spikes/browse/121278

Alma Spikes Nurse, Tiffany Gugle will be at the building this Friday, April 10, from 12:00-1:00. If parents need to pick up any items from the nurse’s office we will be admitting one parent at a time to do so.

AMI Materials
You can use the links below if you prefer to download and print your own copy.
This link will take you to access the PBS materials. http://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/divisions/learning-services/alternative-methods-of-instruction
Week 2 will be there when it’s available. Again, do not do PBS Week 1 unless you just want to use it for activities.
The links below should take you directly to the pages where you will find AMI materials for days 1-10.
Kindergarten Link: http://www.pocahontaspsd.com/o/alma-spikes/browse/111412
First Grade Link: http://www.pocahontaspsd.com/o/alma-spikes/browse/111414
Second Grade Link: http://www.pocahontaspsd.com/o/alma-spikes/browse/111418

Attention Alma Spikes Parents,
What we know at this time about school related items:
The Arkansas Department of Education stated that by the end of the week or early next week, DESE would let us know what the rest of the school year was going to look like.
PBS AMI Materials start next week, Monday, April 6. We will be asking students to complete Week 2. They should skip week 1 because that time period was covered with our local AMI packets.
This link will take you to access the PBS materials. http://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/divisions/learning-services/alternative-methods-of-instruction
Week 2 will be linked for printing or downloading from that page when it’s available.
Hard copies are available in the following locations starting Friday, April 3rd.
Biggers Postoffice
Sutton Baptist Church
American Made Store
Main School Campus-in front of Jr. High and M.D. Williams.
Please only take what you need. Refrain from taking extra copies.
There are drop-off boxes so completed packets can be returned. This isn’t required, you can hold all packets until a later date if you prefer.
The Student Feeding Program will resume next week. Pickups will be available on Monday and Wednesday with individuals receiving enough for five breakfast and lunches. Refer to the schedule on the previous post.
The Food Backpack Program is currently discontinued and you are referred to the Feeding Program mentioned above.
Student pictures and yearbooks have not arrived yet, however, we will design a pickup plan once that happens.
I want to remind parents that AMI materials should not cause a negative issue within their home. For our primary grades, at Alma Spikes, they are for attendance records and not graded to reflect performance or affect classroom academic grades. .

Everyone is invited!! Mr. Pipkin would like everyone to join “Alma Spikes Art with Mr. Pipkin” on Facebook. I hope you join the page for art fun.
This is not a requirement or part of AMI responsibilities. (Search the title if the link doesn’t work)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/543173933261937/

Ms. Oaks, our Alma Spikes Counselor, has asked that any parent that could benefit from her services, when dealing with a student, can contact her at the following email.
cynthia.oaks@pocahontaspsd.com

If you would like to print a copy of the AMI day materials, but need assistance, I'm told that the Randolph County Library would be able to help.

Dear Alma Spikes Parents,
We are currently in the middle of redesigning our AMI day materials. You should have a hard copy or a link to AMI days 1-10. AMI days 1-9 will get us through this Friday. Starting next Monday, we plan to have another approach in place. If you are in need of materials for Days 1-9, you will be able to pick those up at distribution centers around town starting in late afternoon on Friday, April 3rd. I will be in touch before then to explain what happens starting next Monday, April 6th. At this point we plan to partner with Arkansas PBS and supply packets for pick up. At this time however, have students complete AMI day materials for days 1-9. I will provide more information as it becomes available.
Shawn Carter

I have been asked about he Kindergarten AMI materials, specifically option 2. A normal instructional day consist of a standard 360 minutes. I told the parent that it sounded like a mistake, but after reviewing it, I believe it is correct. With that said, understand that these materials are a requirement of an AMI day. However, these lessons and/or materials should never get in the way of a family's time. It is not meant to interfere or disurpt a home. Please have the students complete the material throughout the day with breaks and activities included. AMI days are not meant to frustate students or families, so please don't let it do so. Once we return to school, the packets will be collected to document completion for attendance.

Governor Hutchinson announced today that all Arkansas schools will be closed through April 17th. We are currently working on plans to provide AMI day material for the extended closure. I will provide more detailed information as soon as it is available. Thank you.

Alma Spikes is currently working on uploading all AMI Day Materials. There will be AMI days 1-10 online by 3:00 today. At this time, students are only responsible for completing AMI Days 1 through 4.

If your child has medication with the nurse and you need to pick it up, please do so by 3:15 today.

Alma Spikes Parents and Staff,
-As you should have been notified, school will be in session Monday, April 16. Absentees will be excused for any student not attending . There are several items to wrap up, such as packets for AMI days. We will also be addressing the issue of breakfast and lunch needs for Tuesday through Friday.
-School will not be in session Tuesday, March 17 through Friday, March 20. Spring Break is still scheduled for March 23- 27. Students will need to complete AMI day packets 1-4 and return those packets when school resumes on Monday, March 30.
-There will be no afterschool tutoring until after Spring Break.
-Classroom teachers will be available by email, text or others contacts such as classroom dojo to answer questions about the packets. They can be contacted Tuesday-Friday, 8:00-3:00.
-Parent/Teacher Conferences are postponed at this time and may be completed by phone, online or in person sometime in the future.
-Custodians will be working in the buidliings while they are empty to ensure a deep disinfectant cleaning.
-Directions for classified staff are to be announced.

At this time, Alma Spikes Elementary will be in session next Monday, March 16th. We did send home AMI Day packets with students today in case the situation changes. I wanted to clarify this fact to prevent any confusion about receiving these packets this afternoon.

Tuesday is "If I Ran The Zoo" day. Dress in your animal print or zoo keeper attire in observation of Dr. Seuss Week.

Monday, March 2nd kicks off Dr. Seuss Week. We will be having Green Eggs and Ham for lunch and everyone is encourage to "go green". Wear as much green as you can.

Alma Spikes sends out a BIG THANK YOU to Paslode for their donation to our teachers and students. Mr. Pipken is excited to incorporate the paper into his art lessons.

Our PTO STEM Night is scheduled for tonight, Monday, February 24th at Alma Spikes. I want to encourage everyone to attend.

Our PTO STEM Night is scheduled for next Monday, February 24th at Alma Spikes. I want to encourage everyone to attend.

The Duck bus will be running a second route today. Students on the Duck bus will be arriving home a little later than usual. Thank you for your understanding. 2/21/2020

The Duck bus will be running a second route today. Students on the Duck bus will be arriving home a little later than usual today. Thank you for your understanding.

Duck bus is being double routed today...expect a delay in your child getting home this afternoon.

Reminder to Parents: Valentine's Day is this Friday. Helium stringed balloons and glass vases are not allowed on district school buses. If your child receives balloons on strings or glass vases, they will not be allowed to take them home via bus. Please make arrangements to avoid this conflict.

Reminder: Tuesday Feb. 11th is the last day to turn in an Alma Spikes Valentine's Day order.

March 2nd is Dr. Seuss' Birthday and it is recognized as National Read Across America Day.
We will be dedicating that entire week to Dr. Seuss.
March 2-6
Monday: Green Eggs and Ham -Wear as much green as possible.
Tuesday: If I Ran the Zoo -Animal Prints or Zookeeper Attire.
Wednesday: Wacky Wednesday -Dress Wacky.
Thursday: Oh, The Places You'll Go -Career Day Attire.
Friday: The Sleep Book -Pajama Day

The DIVISION OF ELEMENTARY & SECONDARY EDUCATION HIGH RELIABILITY SCHOOLS has provided the link below for parents to provide feedback about our schools. I encourage you to copy and paste this link to your browser and complete the survey. Thank you.
https://bit.ly/2RjtJGa

Attention Parents: The address books are due back tomorrow. Thanks to everyone who has or who is turning in a completed book of addresses.

Alma Spikes would like to thank Heather and Cody Rickey from the Church of God here in Pocahontas. Their donation of gifts were given out to students this afternoon.

The Duck bus will be running a second route today, Monday, December 16th. Duck bus riders will be arriving home later than usual today.

Attention First Grade Parents!!! First grade will have lunch at 10:45 on Monday, Dec. 16th. They will be taking Kindergarten's lunch time since they won't be back from their field trip.

Second Grade Parent!!! Second grade will be traveling to M.D. Williams on Monday, Dec. 16th to practice for their musical and to visit with third grade classrooms. They will be having lunch at 11:30 that day.

Kindergarten Parents!! Reminding everyone that Kindergarten will be traveling to Paragould on Monday, Dec. 16 to watch Frozen 2. We will be back on campus for lunch by 12:05

Attention Parents: First Grade students will be traveling to the Sutton Baptist Church on Tuesday, December 17th. They have been invited to attend a visit with “The Grinch”. Students will be shuttled to and from the activity that morning but will be on campus for lunch.

Attention Parents: The Duck and Bear buses will be running a double route today. Students on these buses will be arriving home later than usual. Thank you for your understanding. Friday, December 6th.

FYI: Jr. High Choir will be caroling for Alma Spikes in the halls on Monday December 9th around 10:45.

Attention Parents: The Flower bus and Duck bus will both be running a late route today, Nov. 22. We do apologize for any inconvenience.

The Duck bus will be running a second route today and tomorrow. Nov. 21st and 22nd. Please make plans accordingly. Thank you and we are sorry for any inconvenience.

Picture Day! Picture Day! Tomorrow, Thursday, November 21 is picture retake day. Order forms are in the office if you need your child's picture retaken. Be sure to come by early because they will be finished and gone in the morning.

Reminder!! The American Made Fundraiser is closing out this Friday, November 22nd. All orders and money must be turned in by this Friday. Orders will be filled and distributed the week after Thanksgiving break.

Attention Parents! The PTO meeting for tonight has been postponed because the guest speakers are not available. Thank you for your understanding.

Alma Spikes Elementary is sending out progress reports today. Be sure to check backpacks tonight.

American Made Fundraiser is closing out this Friday, November 22nd. All orders and money must be turned in by this Friday. Orders will be filled and distributed the week after Thanksgiving break.

Alma Spikes is happy to announce Dinner for Alma Night!! Bella Piazza has generously offered to donate 10% of the evening's revenue to Alma Spikes. The third Tuesday of each month will be Alma Night, November 19 is the next one. 3:00-9:00 pm, dine-in or carry out.

PTO meeting tonight at Alma Spikes. 6:00 pm in the Cafetiere.

Cookie Dough made it in yesterday. We only have about 10 orders left to be picked up today. If you haven't gotten yours yet, be sure to come by school ASAP.

Reminder that the Cookie Dough Fundraiser orders have arrived!!!!!! Please pick up your items between 2pm and 6pm today (11/13) in the Alma cafeteria.

Cookie Dough is scheduled to arrive tomorrow. It should be ready for pickup between 2 and 6 tomorrow afternoon in the lunchroom.

Due to expected bad weather this afternoon, Alma Spikes is canceling after school tutoring for Monday, Nov. 11th. Please make transportation arrangements for any student that was scheduled to stay for tutoring today.

Cookie Dough is still scheduled for delivery next Wednesday, November 13th. I know it's been a while so thanks again for your patience. T-shirts should have all been distributed at this point. They were sent home with students yesterday and today.

Alma Parents-Winter is coming! AMI day packets are also on their way. If you indicated that you did not want a hard copy than remember it can be accessed on the district home page. Please hold on to these packets in case we have a bad weather day that is identified as an AMI day. You do not have to complete these packets until that time.

Kindergarten Parents-A well child check-up/physical is required for all Kindergarten students. Thank you to all those that have complied with this State Law. I'll be sending individual reminders to those parents that haven't yet complied.

The Kindergarten field trip was canceled due to bad weather and they are trying to reschedule a new one before Winter Break. I wanted to assure parents that the funds they sent to school for the first trip are still in place. All of it has been recorded and deposited. It is simply in holding until the new trip is planned.

Second Nine Weeks Progress Reports are scheduled to go home on November 15th. Alma Spikes will have several teachers out of pocket that week. Therefore, we will be sending them home on Monday, November 18th.

Alma Spikes parents should have found the American Made Fundraiser forms in backpacks this weekend. Yes, this is a partnership with our local American Made Store. Last day for this fundraiser will be Nov. 20th. Orders will be ready for pickup the week of Dec. 2.

The Duck bus will be running a second route today November 1, 2019. Duck bus riders will be arriving home later than usual.

Cookie Dough was just confirmed for delivery on November 13th. Yeah!!! Make plans to pick up that afternoon at the end of the day.

I was just told that the Alma Spikes T-Shirt orders should be out to students by next Thursday, Nov. 7. The delay has been due to materials availability from the supplier. Thanks so much for your patience in this matter. I understand it has been a long turn around.

Alma Spikes Reminder: After school tutoring is not scheduled for today. There is no tutoring this afternoon at Alma Spikes. Enjoy your Halloween.

I am postponing the Kindergarten trip to Autumn woods for tomorrow. It will be too wet and cold for the students to enjoy the day. We will try to reschedule a trip for Kindergarten to another location before Christmas break.

Wow!! The Lock Down Drill was carried out very well. The teachers and students did a wonderful job following guidelines and practicing this drill. Seriously they were amazing!

Alma Spikes will be holding our Lock-Down Drill tomorrow during the 9:00 hour. Check-ins or check-outs can not take place during this hour. Campus will be closed from 9:00-10:00. Please make arrangement accordingly around the 9:00-10:00 hour.

Second graders are bringing home a new permission slip today. We will be going to see "The Addams Family" in Paragould because Autumn Woods is closing on Thursday due to bad weather. Please review, sign and return to school ASAP.

The Duck bus will be running a second route today October, 29, 2019. Duck bus riders will be arriving home later than usual.

This Thursday is October 31st also known as Halloween or candy day to some. Students and teachers are allowed to wear costumes with only a few restrictions. Nothing that covers the face or head. No accessories such as tool weapons. Real shoes must be worn. Remember-participation is optional.

The Duck bus and the Bear bus are being double routed today...expect a delay in seeing these students arrive home.

The Duck bus will be running a second route today and therefore, those riders will be arriving home later today.

Reminding parents that Teacher Conferences are being held today. If you still need an appointment time, please call in after 3:15 or contact you classroom teacher.

The Duck Bus will be running a second route this afternoon. Duck Bus riders will be arriving home later today than normal. 10-17-19

There will be no after school tutoring today (10/17) at Alma Spikes due to Parent Teacher Conferences.

A notice was sent earlier about the Duck bus running a second route. However, it seems that it did not reach everyone so I'm sending this notice as well. The Duck bus has left Alma Spikes for its second run. Thank you for your patience.

Alma Spikes is happy to announce Dinner for Alma Night!! Bella Piazza has generously offered to donate 10% of the evening's revenue to Alma Spikes. The third Tuesday of each month will be Alma Night, October 15th will be the first one, 3:00-9:00 pm, dine-in or carry out.

Alma Spikes cookie dough fund raiser ends tomorrow. Be sure to find someone to order from tonight.

Reminding Alma Spikes parents that school pictures are tomorrow. As always, we’ll try to get pictures taken before their recess destroys all the hard work you put into their outfits. Lol

There will be NO after school tutoring for 2nd grade on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday (October 1st-3rd) due to Connections Training. Kindergarten and 1st grade will continue as normal.

Reminding parents that student drop off starts at 7:15 each day at Alma Spikes. I am sending home individual reminders to those arriving too early but wanted to thank those parents following this guideline.

Cookie Dough order forms are out there. Alma students are offering as many people as possible this chance to order. This weekend is a great time to order. Find an Alma student and help them win chances to dunk me in our dunking booth!! Yours Truly, Mr. Carter

Lunch charges need to be brought up to date. Be sure to pay any charges ASAP.

Reminder that today (9/13) is the last day to order t-shirts for the Alma Spikes Fundraiser!

The Duck bus will be running two routes today. We will be holding the Duck riders for the second route here at Alma Spikes until the Duck bus returns.

Homecoming is the week of Sept. 23-27. Alma Spikes Spirit Days:Monday-All American Day; Tuesday-Favorite Sports Day; Wednesday-Luau Day;Thursday-Safari Day;Friday-Red and White Day! Go Big Red!!
To create a more personalized experience, please follow each school at the following twitter accounts: @Alma_Spikes, @MD_WilliamsINT, @PHS_Redskins, and @PJHS_Redskins. The @PocahontasSD account will still be used for district wide information and news.

Alma Spikes Class Placement List Are Posted!!!!!

Alma Spikes Elementary Orientations are as follows:
Monday, August 12
5:15-Preschool
6:00-First Grade
7:00-Second Grade
Monday, August 19:
6:00-Kindergarten

Phones look to be back in working order now throughout the District. Sorry for any inconvenience this past week.

Currently incoming calls to the school are getting the busy signal. Centurylink is aware of the issue and is currently working on a solution. You may use the "Ask a question" section of our App on your phone and your message will get routed to proper person.

With the last day of school quickly approaching...don't forget to pay any outstanding lunch charges before Thursday (5/23). Thank you!

Due to the impending weather forecast, the Pre-K trip to the park that was scheduled for tomorrow (5/09) has been rescheduled for Monday, May 13th (weather permitting).

Reminder that tomorrow (5/04) is the Alma Spikes Elementary Art Show!! The Exhibit will be on display from 8am to 2:30pm in the Alma Cafeteria. Everyone is invited to attend.

Due to the rain, we will be having the bouncy stations in the gym tomorrow. Normally, this would be the best time to attend and enjoy the fun with your kids. However, I want to make sure everyone knows that we will be in the gym and it will be hot, damp, and will have strong odors of bouncing and playing. If you would like to attend, the times are as follows:
Bouncy Station Assigned Times.
First Grade 9:15-10:45
Kindergarten 11:30-1:00
Second Grade 1:00-2:30

Mega Party Fun Day is HERE!!!!
Tomorrow is our bouncy day. Everyone is invited to come in and enjoy the day on campus. There is a schedule for each grade and when they will be assigned to the bouncy stations. MOST IMPORTANTLY: Only students with permission slips turned in by tomorrow morning will be allowed to use the bouncy stations. Remember to turn in those slips!!

Fundraiser Kick Off
Alma Spikes sent home our last fundraiser for the year. Each child has a brochure and order form to be returned to the building by May 7th. Items ordered are being supplied by our local American Made Store and will be ready for distribution by May 15th. Proceeds of the fundraiser will help cover transportation cost for the field trips taken by our students. Thank you for your support.

The Trike-A-Thon for Pre-K that was scheduled for tomorrow (4/26) has been cancelled.

Just a reminder that today (4/25) will be the LAST day of tutoring @ Alma Spikes.

The link below can be used to submit your opinions to the Public Survey for Alma Spikes Elementary; 2019. Submissions will be collected through Sunday, April 29th and used to guide our school improvement plan. Thank you for your help.
https://forms.gle/eaBSa3XrRxYnKeCv7

There will be NO after school tutoring today @ Alma Spikes (4/18).

Reminder of the PTO meeting tonight @ 5:30 pm in the Alma Spikes cafeteria. We will be serving pizza and cake as well as honoring our teacher's volunteers. Door prizes will be awarded!!

Reminder that tomorrow (3/28) is Kindergarten cap and gown pics @ Alma!

Just a reminder that there will be NO after school tutoring @ Alma today due to parent teacher conferences.

Alma Spikes will be celebrating Dr. Seuss's Birthday by observing the following theme days.
Monday, February 25- Cat In The Hat
Tuesday, February 26- Fox in Socks
Wednesday, February 27- Wacky Wednesday Thursday, February 28- One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish
Friday, March 1- Green Eggs and Ham
The cafeteria will be serving a meal connected to the Green Eggs and Ham theme.
Participation is not required, but is encouraged.

Just a reminder that there will be no school on Monday (2/18) in observance of Presidents' Day. We will see you back on Tuesday!

There will be no after school tutoring today (2/14) @ Alma Spikes.

Just a reminder that there will be NO after school tutoring tomorrow (2/14) @ Alma Spikes.

Don't forget about the PTO meeting tonight (2/12) @ Alma Spikes. We are meeting in the cafeteria @ 5:30 pm where refreshments will be served. Tonight is STEM night!!! Come have fun with Makey Makey (Google it!).

We would like to thank the Pocahontas Missionary Baptist Church for their generous donation of 80 lbs. of food to the Alma Spikes Backpack Program.

Alma Spikes will be celebrating Dr. Seuss's Birthday by observing the following theme days during the week prior to his birthday on March 2nd.
Monday, February 25- Cat In The Hat
Tuesday, February 26- Fox in Socks
Wednesday, February 27- Wacky Wednesday
Thursday, February 28- One Fish, Two Fish, Red
Fish, Blue Fish
Friday, March 1- Green Eggs and Ham
Participation is not required, but is encouraged.
The cafeteria will be serving a meal connected to the Green Eggs and Ham theme.

Alma Spikes would like to thank the PEO (Philanthropic Educational Organization) for making a donation of items AND funds to the Alma Spikes backpack program.
Without all our supporters, this program could not exist. Thanks again.

Important Announcement: The Duck bus will be running a late route today, December 14th. It will be about thirty minutes later that normal. We are very sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.

Alma Spikes Classroom Parties! Friday Dec. 14th.
9:00- First Grade
10:00- Second Grade
12:00- Kindergarten
1:00- Pre K
It's also PJ Day for all grades. Remember; shoes with soles should be worn.

Don't forget the December PTO meeting is tonight (12/10) beginning @ 5:30pm. Santa will be here!!!!

Alma will be having the Family Favorite Turkey and Dressing meal on Wednesday, December 12th

Movie day is December 11th. All of Alma will be going and I need to clarify that we have not made any arrangements for seats other than the number of students and staff members that we will be taking. I believe the theater could have other schools coming on the same day. We are not able to make arrangements for more seating beyond the number we will be taking. Thank you for your understanding.

Alma Spikes would like to thank Ms. Crystal Masters for the large donation to the district's backpack food program.

Attention Parents! The Duck bus will be running a second route today, Dec. 6 2018. Student drop off will be about 30 minutes later than normal. Thank you for your understanding and we apologize for the inconvenience.

Attention Parents! The Duck bus will be running a second route today, Dec. 5, 2018. Student drop off will be about 30 minutes later than normal. Thank you for your understanding and we apologize for the inconvenience.

Reminder: All of Alma will be traveling to the movies on Tuesday, December 11th for a private showing of "The Grinch". Be sure that your child's permission slip and payment are turned in ASAP. Cost is $6.00 per child.

Reminder: The last day of tutoring is Dec 13. We will identify and notify tutoring students for second semester, after Christmas. Thank you.

Alma Spikes Picture Retakes are tomorrow, Nov. 29th.

Fall picture retakes @ Alma Spikes will be tomorrow (11/29). If you are planning on having your child's picture retaken, order forms can be picked up in the front office or you can let us know to send one home with your child today.

Alma Spikes AMI Day Packets for Day 1 are due back ASAP. Because of some confusing on the due date and the holiday break, the deadline has been extended to Friday, Nov. 30th. Any child not returning the packet will be considered absent for that day.

Alma Spikes would like to thank the Kiwanis of Pocahontas for their donation to the District's Food 4 Kids Backpack Program.

Reminder: If you have questions about your child's AMI Day packets, classroom teachers are available by email, text or class dojo.

AMI Day 1 Lessons would normally be collected 5 days after the AMI day, however; due to Thanksgiving break, lessons will be due by November 26.

This is just a reminder that notification of school closings for any reason will be shared by the following manner: KPOC 104.1 (radio station), KAIT - Region 8 News, Pocahontas School App, School Messenger - Call Alert

Alma Spikes will NOT have after school tutoring this Wednesday and Thursday (11/14-11/15).

The Duck Bus and Car bus will be running late routes today on Friday, November 9th. We apologize for any inconvenience.

There will be no after school tutoring on Wednesday, October 31st

The Duck bus will be running late routes today. October 30th. We are very sorry for any inconvenience.

Second Grade Visit to M.D. Williams!
Second Grade will be making the first of four trips to M. D. Williams tomorrow morning, October 30, 8:15-9:30. We are following the Transition Program designed to ease their promotion to Third Grade.
Purpose of Transition Program: To minimize the transitional concerns of students, adults and teachers. The idea is that second grade students will be more comfortable with third grade expectations once they transition up. At the same time, third grade students will be interacting with familiar individuals from Alma and serving as student leaders for second grade students.
Transition Program Outline: The plan is to pair Second Grade classrooms with Third Grade classrooms for the 2018-2019 school year. Regularly scheduled visitations between rooms and teachers will occur throughout the school year in hopes of reducing stress and worry for upcoming students.
Goal: To share and display classroom activities, instruction, and expectations between Second Grade Teachers, Third Grade Teachers, Parents and Students.

Transportation Change!
Transportation change for Monday October, 22. The Duck and Car bus will be running 30 minutes late today.

Important news for the day (10/18)...
*The Duck Bus will be running 30 minutes late this afternoon.
*No tutoring today due to Parent Teacher Conferences.
*No school tomorrow...it's Fall Break!! See you back at school on Monday!

Second grade parents that plan to attend their field trip to The Silos in Bono next Wednesday Oct. 17, be informed; The Silos will only be taking cash. They do not accept cards for payment.

The Duck Bus will be running 30 minutes late this afternoon. Thank you for your patience.

The Duck Bus will be running 30 minutes late this afternoon. Thank you for your patience.

The Duck Bus will be ran as a second route today. Alma Duck Bus riders will be held at Alma until the second route begins. We have tried to contact everyone this affects, but incase someone wasn't reached, I'm sending out this notification. The Duck Bus will be running about 30 minutes later today. Thank you.

Reminding everyone that School Pictures will be taken at Alma tomorrow, October 4th. Picture Perfect Day!!

October 3, 2018. The Car Bus will be running a late route today. We are trying to call all our parents that may be affected by this change. In case we weren't able to reach everyone, I wanted to post the information here. This only affects the CAR BUS riders. Thank you.

Thanks to first grade for a great field trip today to Parker Pioneer. I was just informed that some parents only had to pay $5 for admission to the park. This of course would throw up a red flag since we requested $7 per student. I simply want to share with all our parents that we were quoted that cost per child and to our knowledge that is still what we are paying per student. That price was for admission and nothing more. I just don't want anyone to think that we are charging students more than the admission cost. Why parents were charged $5 and students $7, we do not know. Thank you for your time to read this clarification.

Homecoming Spirit Week Dress-up Days at Alma Spikes!!!! Monday-Favorite Decade Day; Tuesday-Farmer Day; Wednesday-Favorite Holiday Day; Thursday-Picture Perfect day(It really is pic. day); Friday-Red/White Day.

First Grade is on the ball. The Parker Pioneer field trip is scheduled for Sept. 26th. I'll post any changes, if they occur.

Wow!!!! It's almost here. Alma Spikes orientation is this Thursday the 9th. Preschool: 5:15; First Grade: 6:00; Second Grade: 7:00. We will begin in the cafeteria before going to the rooms.

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT! Class placements have changed for some students. First grade has broken the 180 student mark and we are rearranging some placements due to this large number. Thanks to Ms. Sarah Rogers' willingness to address the need, she is moving to First Grade. This means that we will have nine Kindergarten rooms, nine First grade rooms, and seven Second grade rooms. The second grade class she left has been adsorbed by the other second grade teachers. A new first grade class has been formed by absorbing students from other first grade rooms. We are excited about this change and believe that it is the best decision for our growing number of students. Thank you. Shawn Cart

The 2018-2019 School Calendar is now published to our website. http://5il.co/2u8i

Alma thanks our Seniors and wishes them good luck.
2018 Senior Walk video.
http://www.pocahontaspsd.com/article/50920
Directions: Highlight web address; Right click select "go to:"

Fantastic News!!! A big thanks to the City Pool for making arrangements so our 2nd grade can swim tomorrow.

Reminding those that received Preschool letters that the return deadline is tomorrow. Friday, May 18th.

The Second Grade pool trip may be rescheduled for Friday morning. We're checking on that possibility now, and we will let you know asap.

The Second Grade pool trip has been cancelled for today. The weather isn't going to break enough for us to go.

Alma Spikes 1st graders are headed back now from the Memphis Zoo!! They are expected to be back to Alma at 4:30pm.

Reminder that schools will be dismissed 1 hour early today (4/24)!!! Alma car riders will be dismissed at 1:55, bus riders at 2:10.

Don't forget...Kindergarten Registration is tomorrow (5/10) from 9am to 6pm in the Alma Spikes cafeteria. You will need to bring a birth certificate, social security card, up-to-date shot record and a current physical. We look forward to seeing you!!

Don't forget that tomorrow is Kindergarten cap and gown picture day!!! You must pre-pay to have your child's picture taken.

Don't forget to send $1 with your child for admission to watch Starburst @ MD Williams tomorrow (3/28)!!!

Because of Parent Teacher Conferences this afternoon, there will be NO tutoring at Alma Spikes today.

Just a reminder that Parent Teacher Conferences are today and Alma Spikes will be dismissing car riders @ 1:55, bus riders @ 2:10. If you have not yet scheduled a meeting with your child's teacher, you still have time!! You can contact your child's teacher or call the office @ 870-892-4573.

Dear Parents,
We've had several calls about the activity at Alma Spikes this morning. I want to relieve any concerns parents may be having. A false alarm did go off this morning with one of our alert response buttons. I would first like to thank the Pocahontas Police Department for their immediate response and support. They were wonderful. I have been in contact with the security company and they are reviewing the system for any needed repairs or updates. Thank you for your concerns and for addressing those directly; that is always the fastest way to clarify a situation.

There will be NO after school tutoring at Alma Spikes on Valentine's Day, February 14th.

Alma Spikes tutoring has been cancelled for this afternoon (2/06) due to the threat of winter weather.

Please be advised that Alma Spikes will have NO after school tutoring on Monday (01/29) or Tuesday (01/30). All tutoring will resume as scheduled on Wednesday (01/31).

Don't Forget!!!! Alma Spikes monthly PTO meeting is tonight (1/23) at 5:30 in the gym. The following classes will be doing a musical performance: Todd, Tyler, Baker and Emmons. Refreshments will be served and door prizes will be awarded. Due to limited seating, please bring your lawn chair!

Alma Spikes PTO Meeting has been rescheduled for next Tuesday, Jan. 23.

The scheduled PTO meeting for tonight has been postponed. New date is TBA.

If you are unable to find AMI materials on the Alma Spikes page-remember that we have five days to return materials. Replacement packets will be available tomorrow.

Parents and guardians: Alma Spikes will be sending out a revised AMI snow day letter this afternoon with your child. Please be sure and check your child's backpack! This letter includes updated contact information.

Watch Redskin Basketball live at 6:30 p.m. tonight! Pocahontas VS Thayer
https://goo.gl/KuxgWT

Next weeks PTO meeting be held in the gym to accommodate the expected seating needs.

Tutoring Calendar has changed for Alma Spikes. The last day of tutoring will be December 7th. Please make contact to your teacher if transportation changes are needed.

The "mini-concert" that was to take place after the PTO meeting tomorrow night (Mrs. Crawford, Mrs. Roberts & Mrs. Sharp's 2nd grade classrooms) HAS BEEN POSTPONED!!!! The PTO meeting "Family Math night with the Mathletes" will STILL take place at 5:30, followed by refreshments.

Alma Spikes Halloween Dress Up:Students can dress up. No bloody or scary characters and no accessories that look like weapons. Thank you.

Reminding Everyone: Alma Spikes will not have tutoring on Oct. 31st.

Don't forget, tomorrow is the last day to shop the online Scholastic book fair!! Use this link to access the online fair http://www.scholastic.com/bf/almaspikeselementaryschool.

Please Note: The Book Fair at Alma Spikes will be closed tomorrow. It will be open again on Thursday.

Don't forget to schedule your child's parent teacher conference! You may contact your child's teacher or call the Alma office at 870-892-4573 ext. 1003. Conference times are filling up quickly...

If you missed ordering your child's school picture, you have 24 hours to go online and place your order: www.mylifetouch.com Picture Day ID: RP017214Q0
Picture retake day is November 16th.

Project Graduation will be selling spirit ribbons tomorrow morning (9/29) in the cafeteria. Bring $1!!!

Red Cross Blood Drive will be taking place in the front parking lot at Alma Spikes tomorrow (9/26) from 12:30 pm - 6:30 pm.

Alma Spikes Homecoming Spirit Days
Monday-Pajamas
Tuesday-Camo
Wednesday-Favorite Decade
Thursday-Neon
Friday-Red & White
We varied from High School only once because pajamas are fun.(and easier to do)

The 2017-2018 School Calendar can be found here: http://5il.co/18ek

The 2nd grade field trip is scheduled for Thursday, May 18th. Notes will be sent home tomorrow.

Reminder~The Dave Williams Little Redskins Elementary Football Camp for boys going into grades K-6th has been rescheduled to May 11th & 12th

At this time we are combining the Kindergarten Musical & Graduation. It will be held on May 23rd at 6:00 pm at MD Williams.

The Dave Williams Little Redskins Elementary Football Camp for boys going into grades K-6th has been rescheduled to May 11th & 12th

Dear Kindergarten Parents and Guardians,
Due to the concern of flooding and possible transportation issues the Kindergarten Musical scheduled for the evening of May 2nd has been canceled. We will be sending more information home as soon as alternate plans are made. Thank-you for understanding.

Attention 1st and 2nd Grade Parents and Guardians,
Due to the concern of flooding and possible transportation issues the May 2nd, 1st grade, and the May 3rd 2nd grade field trips are being postponed. We are planning to reschedule these trips as soon as possible. We will be sending more information home as soon as alternate plans are made. Thank-you for understanding.

Kindergarten students will be returning to Alma Spikes at 4:00 PM. Thank you

During the month of April the Student Ambassadors of the Randolph County Chamber of Commerce are collecting book donations for area children. Donations of new or gently used books for children in Preschool through 4th grade are appreciated. Collection boxes are going to be set up at Alma Spikes, MD Williams, PJHS & PHS. Thank you for your help!

Alma Spikes students are attending the STARBURST performance at MD Williams on Thursday, March 16th at 8:30 AM. All Alma students will be bused to MD to watch the performance and will return to school by bus before lunch time. Please contact the school before 8:30 AM if you have any concerns. Thank you

Kindergarten registration for Pocahontas Public Schools will be Tuesday, April 11, 2017 at Alma Spikes Elementary School. Registration will begin at 9:00 am and conclude at 6:00 pm. To register for Kindergarten for the 2017-2018 school year, your child must be 5 on or before August 1, 2017.
Documentation that will be needed to register:
Birth Certificate
Social Security Card
Immunization Record
Kindergarten Physical (Provided by Physician)

Alma will be traveling to M.D. Williams Thursday morning to view Star Burst. Parents should have gotten notes last week.

The STARBURST night performance is Monday, March 13th at MD Williams 6:00-8:00 PM. Cost for admission to the show is: Students-$2.00 & Adults-$4.00
Alma Spikes students will be attending a daytime performance on Monday, March 13th - 8:00-10:30AM. Cost for admission to the daytime show is $1.00. Thank you

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES FOR GRADES K-6
Pocahontas Public Schools will conduct parent/teacher conferences for students, in grades K-6 only, on Thursday, March 16, 2017. Parents are encouraged to meet with their child’s teacher(s) between the hours of 3:30 p.m. through 7:30 p.m.
Because of the conferences, school will be dismissed early for all students on Thursday, March 16, 2017. Alma Spikes Elementary walkers will be dismissed at 1:55 p.m. and bus students at 2:10 p.m. All other students in grades 3-12 will be dismissed at 2:25 p.m. Lunches will be served.
Classes will resume on the regular schedule Friday, March 17, 2017.

We also want to congratulate Eli Kerley who is our second place Box Top collection winner. He collected 210 Box Tops. He is also in Ms. Rogers Kindergarten class!Inline image 1
We also want to congratulate Eli Kerley who is our second place Box Top collection winner. He collected 210 Box Tops. He is also in Mrs. Rogers Kindergarten class!

Today is Alma Spikes Spring picture day. Please call the office ASAP to let us know if you've ordered pictures online. Thank you

Pocahontas Public Schools will be closed in observance of President's Day on Mon. Feb. 20, 2017. School will resume Tues. Feb. 21st.

REMINDER: There will be NO TUTORING at Alma Spikes tomorrow 2/14/17

Just a friendly reminder about Alma Spikes Valentine's Day deliveries. We request that all deliveries be made between 8:00AM & 10:00AM ONLY. All deliveries should be brought to the office. It is also helpful if you would please include the student name/grade & classroom teacher on all deliveries. ALSO if your child is a bus rider please keep in mind that there are to be NO breakable items, oversized items or balloons on the school bus. Thank you! :)

Alma Spikes Elementary requests that ALL Valentine's Day deliveries be made between 8:00-10:00 AM. These items should be delivered to the office. (This is a little different than what we have done in the past.) ALSO it is very helpful if you would have the student name, grade AND name of class room teacher on all deliveries. Thank you

Retro Bill will present a Parent Involvement program Tuesday, February 7th. In the High School Gym at 6:00.
All students and the public are welcome and invited. http://www.retrobill.com/

DO YOU HAVE TALENT??? We know you do!!! Starburst Variety Show will be March 13th & 14th. If you want to participate, get your act TOGETHER and TRY-OUT! Auditions are as follows:
Feb. 27th - vocal/singing acts
Feb. 28th - dance acts/other variety acts
Acts must have music. If you are singing, you must have the instrumental version of music. Acts should be well rehearsed and prepared for the audition (stage ready).
The Startburst NIGHT performance will be Monday March 13th 6:00-9:00 PM. Cost for admission to the show is $2.00 for students and $4.00 for adults.

Pizza Party this Friday for our Clip Up drawing. The students below can bring a drink on Friday to have with their pizza. We will draw again at the end of this nine weeks.
Bryce Weatherby, Saige Sparks, Blake Edington, Audrey Murphy, Cadon Branton, Ty Nelson, McKinley Dailey-Huddelston, Audrey Murphy, Marissa McDonald,
Zander Casey, Jayda Wicker, Brayden Crow, Karson Pankey, Gabby Lopez, Cassandra Clookey, Abby Harris, Steven Baltz, Cooper Winebaugh, Gage Nelson
Brayden Broadway, Grace Tice, Dezzerae Francis, Ace Brooks, Breanna Rush, Maggie Malone, Amelia McKenzie, Lilly Snodgrass, Gracie Allen, Brayden Grooms

Looking for a Formal Dress at a great price? Project Graduation is having a Formal Dress Resale on Saturday, January 28th in the PHS Student Center.
Drop off is from 9 - 10 a.m. The sale is open from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Please contact Tennille Roberts at 870-810-3464 for more information.

Alma Students,
YOU can be a Box Top Hero for Alma Spikes! When your parents purchase products that have Box Tops for Education, ask them to clip those for you and then bring them to the Alma Spikes Parent Center. You can put them in a baggie with your name and your teacher’s name and bring to the Parent Center. Each Box Top clipped earns our school 10 cents! We just received a check for $417 from the last collection period. Our next collection period ends on February 28, 2017.
******So…… all Box Top Heroes who turn in Box Tops will get a small prize. The Hero who turns in the most Box Tops will win a Super Hero Prize Pack! This contest begins today and runs through Friday, February 17th. *******

Pocahontas Public Schools will not be in session on Monday, January 16, 2017. Schools will be closed in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. School will resume the regular schedule on Tuesday, January 17, 2017 for all students.

Watch the Sr. Lady Redskins take on Highland tonight!
https://goo.gl/2d8QPM

We are currently having some safety issues with students not using the crosswalks that are painted on the road. Please be reminded to use these areas when exiting vehicles in the mornings or crossing the road. It only takes a few more seconds of your time to be safe. Remember, they are there for your safety. Thank you! Officer Lane

Pocahontas Public Schools will be closed for the Christmas Holiday, Wednesday, December 21, 2016 through Tuesday, January 3, 2017. School will re-open on Wednesday, January 4, 2017

Alma Lunch Charges-Remember to pay any outstanding balances with the Lunchroom ASAP. Finish the first semester with no charges.

Remember that Holiday Party treats should be store bought. Thank you for understanding.

Alma Spikes Elementary
Holiday Classroom Party times.
December 16th
2nd Grade 10:00
K-12:00
1st Grade -1:00

The GIFT PAN w/Writable Lids were out of stock at the time the fundraiser items shipped. They will be here in 7 to 10 days and will be sent home with the student. Sorry for the inconvenience, but we sold over 100 sets of those.! Wow!

Fundraiser items will be distributed this Thursday, December 1st. All smaller orders will be sent home with students Thursday evening. If you would like to pick up your order, you must let us know. You will get a note about this in your child's backpack tonight. If you want to pick up your order, return the bottom portion to school tomorrow. Thanks everyone!

REMINDER ~ NO TUTORING for FIRST GRADE students Wed.11/16 & Thurs.11/17

Thank you to all these people that helped put together the Fall Festival
Alma Spikes Fall Festival
Donations Committee
Blaire O’Donnell
Jennifer Clay
Roberta French
Decorating Committee
Sarah Kirby
Blaire O’Donnell
Audra Land
Mary Beth Lowtharp
Games Committee
Stacie Woods
Elizabeth Sparks
Sarah Rogers
Cyndi Oaks
Food Committee
Marsha Warner
Audra Land
Jennifer Burnside
Melanie Bailey Hibbard
Leslie Godwin
Trick or Treating Committee
Shelia Ingram

Fundraiser t-shirts are here and being delivered! If you ordered one, please check your child's backpack. Just in time to wear to Homecoming tonight! Thanks to S & W Custom Apparel for creating some awesome t shirt designs!

Alma Spikes Fundraiser T-Shirts should go home with students on Monday 10/17/16

PHS Project Graduation 5k Color Run and 1 Mile Kids Fun Run. November 12th @ 8:00 AM. Adults $25, 10 and under $10. Must register by Oct 31 at 5pm to guarantee a T-Shirt.
Registration begins on Oct 13 at racesonline.com
Registration forms are also available and can be be picked up or turned in at:
Alma Spikes - Denee Johnson or Jenna McDonnough
MD Williams - Cheryl Matlock
PJHS - Chandra McDowell/office
PHS - Dianna Johnson/office
Sponsored by Black River Health Club

Preschool Spot Open!. We have a Parent Pay spot open and ready to be filled. $17 per day plus Breakfast and Lunch cost. Follows school attendance days. Call 870-892-4573, ask for Amy Fish.

Alma Spikes Fundraiser!
If you have friends and relatives out of town that would like to order fundraiser items from your student, please follow these steps:
1.) Go to forfundsonline.com and use the program ID 49194 to register your student and create your password.
2.) Use the email generated by the website to send to friends and family. This email will contain your student's fundraiser ID that will give him/her credit for the sale.
3.) After registering, you will receive an email with the child's fundraiser ID. You can log on at forfundsonline.com to see how many orders the child has received.
ALL ONLINE ORDERS WILL BE INCLUDED IN THE CHILD'S TOTAL ITEMS SOLD.
Thanks for helping Alma Spikes School!!!!

Fundraiser Kickoff is today at 2:15! Please look for those packets coming home this afternoon.

Today is School Picture Day at Alma Spikes

REMINDER ~ Tomorrow (10/6/16) is School Picture Day at Alma Spikes. Picture money is due at time the time pictures are taken.

Second Quick Reminder: Please pay lunch charges ASAP.

Alma Spikes Homecoming Spirit Week Dress Up!!
Monday:Hair Raising Homecoming-Wild Hair Day
Tuesday: Twinkie Tuesday-Dress like a Buddy
Wednesday: Mismatch Day-Dress wild and Mismatched
Thursday: Olympic Sport Day-Favorite Sports Wear
Friday: Red and White Day

Quick Reminder: Please pay lunch charges ASAP.

First grade is on schedule. Buses are leaving Parker Pioneer Homestead in a few minutes. Please be at Alma Spikes to pick up your child at 4:15.

Don't forget! Tomorrow night is Hero Sandwich Night and the first PTO meeting!

Attention Alma Parents! Due to technical issues, we weren't able to print progress reports today. Please look for them next week.

Alma Spikes Elementary currently has one parent pay position open in our preschool. If interested please contact our office.

T-Shirt order time is closing soon! Get in any orders by this Friday. We have forms and designs in the office if you need them.

Reminder that if students are checking out with Grandparent tomorrow, be sure to send notes or make arrangements.

Second grade has been invited to join the Senior High football team in this week's Yarnell Sweet Play of the Week Celebration. Second grade will travel to the High School on Thursday, 8th. They will visit the practice facility and stadium.

As the first three weeks have passed, we have noticed things to remind everyone of.
Drop off should be after 7:20 and not before.
Students must be in the cafeteria or playground before the 8:50 bell.
Parents should check in at the office before entering the building.
Students and parents should not be in classrooms before 7:50.
I truly thank all the parents that have been following these request.

Notice to Parents: The Doors closest to Preschool will be alarmed between 8:00-2:55. Please do not use between these hours.

Morning drop off- a student can exit the car on the sidewalk side any place between the crosswalks. Please pull all the way forward.

I want to thank parents for adjusting to the new drop off procedures. The test run is going well so we will keep it up for now.

Alma Spikes is teaming up with Compassion for Communities for a "Sock-it-to-em" sock drive. Students can help by bringing a pair or package of NEW socks to send to those affected by the flooding in Louisiana. We will accept donations of socks from now until Sept. 23rd. There is a tote in the cafeteria for your sock donations. They will be delivered to Louisiana on October 1st. Let's help "SOCK-IT-TO-EM"!

Pocahontas Public Schools will not be in session on Monday, September 5, 2016. Schools will be closed in observance of Labor Day. Pocahontas Public Schools will resume the regular schedule on Tuesday, September 6, 2016 for all students.

A great big thank-you to the employees of Integrity 1st Bank of Pocahontas for their large food donation to the Alma Spikes Food Backpack Program. Employees donated money to wear jeans on Fridays, and all the money went to purchase food. Y'all are awesome!!!!
To access the Home Access Center-Click Explore on our website, select your school, Click Explore again. Listed under the Parents header.

Reminder: Cub Scouts will meet tonight at 6:30 in the Alma Spikes lunchroom. Doors open at 6:00.

Announcing Grandparents' Day at Alma Spikes. Grandparents are invited to join us on Friday, Sept. 9th.
K-12:30, 1st-1:15, 2nd-2:00.

Red Cross Blood Drive is returning to campus. Please come donate on Monday, Sept. 26th. 12:30-6:30

Hero Sandwich Night is BACK!! Join your PTO meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 20th. 5:30

Kindergarten placement list will be posted tomorrow around 12:00. Open House is at 6:00 Thursday night.

Boys Scouts of America night is August 25th. 6:00 Everyone is invited to attend.

It's very quiet in the building today. Looking for that to change on Monday when you all come back. See you then!

A fiber optic line has been cut in our area and is causing us to experience outages with our phones. We hope to have this resolved soon.

You can now apply for school meal benefits online! See our Nutrition page for video and link to the form. http://goo.gl/wx70KL

Alma Spikes Preschool Orientation:
Monday, Aug. 8th @ 5:00 pm.

Alma Spikes Orientation Schedule: August 8th;
1st Grade-6:00; 2nd Grade-7:00.
Kindergarten-Aug. 18th, 6:00. Kindergarten Parents should expect an explanation letter soon.

The 2016-2017 yearly calendar has been posted here: http://5il.co/9dn It is also located under the "Explore" menu on our website.

Pocahontas Public Schools is proud to announce the launch of our new website. The website is now fully integrated with our App and Social Media accounts.
www.pocahontaspsd.com

NWEA (North West Education Assessment) growth winner will be having their pizza parties next week. Over all class winners will have it on Monday 23rd. Bring a drink. Individual winners will be Tue

The second graders should be back to Alma Spikes a little before 4:00 PM. Sounds like they had a wonderful time at Mud Island today!

KAIT8's @ryanvaughan Visited Alma Spike's 2nd Graders today. Come back soon!
https://youtu.be/uQ3iac89Vf8
Tonight is our PTO pizza party/volunteer appreciation night. Starts tonight at 5:30 at Alma Spikes Cafeteria.

Volunteer Recognition is tomorrow night at Alma Spikes. 5:30 All are welcome.

PTO Literacy Bingo Night Tonight! Starts at 5:30.

Accidental Panic Button pushed this morning. But- Wow! Thanks to the Police Department for a fast response to the building.

Alma Spikes received $1,298.50 for our Address Booklet Fundraiser! We greatly appreciate you filling out address booklets! Alma Spikes students & families are awesome!

Remember that tomorrow is Spring picture and class picture day at Alma Spikes.

There is an updated version of our App for Android Phones now available in the Google Play Store. https://goo.gl/FYMQZq

PTO meeting and STEM night activities Tuesday night @ 5:30

APRIL 2!!!! Alma Spikes PTO yard sale.
Location: Lunchroom
Time: 7:00-12:00
Come support the PTO and shop away.

Due to the large volume of expected Valentine deliveries, Alma Spikes will be taking deliveries from 1-2 in the cafeteria this Friday. Distribution will begin at 1pm. Thanks for your cooperation!

Due to such a large volume of expected deliveries, don't forget that Alma Spikes will be taking Valentine gift deliveries from 1-2 ONLY in the cafeteria on Friday, February 12. Distribution will begin at 1pm. Thanks for your cooperation!

Attention Alma Parents: Friday, January 29 is the last day to turn in the address books. Our school earns $ .50 for each complete address we receive. You do no selling. Simply fill in the 11 address pages. All students returning the booklet will receive a prize and be entered to win "Joebot the Robot". Please check your student's backpack for the booklet, complete and return it. We appreciate your help!

Attention Alma Parents: Friday, January 29 is the last day to turn in the address books sent home earlier this week. Our school earns $ .50 for each complete address we receive. You do no selling. Simply fill in the 11 address pages. All students returning the booklet will receive a prize and be entered to win "Joebot the Robot" in our drawing Friday afternoon. Please check your student's backpack for the booklet and complete and return it.we appreciate your help!

Due to forecast of winter weather entering the area later this afternoon or evening, Alma Spikes is cancelling after-school tutoring and the scheduled PTO meeting for tonight. Jan. 19th. Thank you.

School will not be session on Monday, January 18th in observation of Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Tuesday night at 5:30 will be our monthly PTO meeting. Jennifer Clay, our President, has organized a fun night of leaning. There will be 5 tables set up as STEM stations: catapult making, 3D structures with toothpicks and marshmallows, chain reactions with cups and popsicle sticks, Volcanoes (smaller,less messy ones), and a butterfly lifecycle craft. We need your support and help with the stations. She said we will need 1-2 people at each station.
We would really like to have a great turnout. Please talk with your students about the fun activities. Notes will go home tomorrow. Then I will make reminder bracelets for Tuesday if you will let me know you want them.
I am so happy with the crowds that this year's PTO meetings have drawn. Typically January meetings are very low attendance. I am hoping for a good turnout! Thanks!

Yearbooks on sale now. Prices may vary. Price Information sheets have gone home with students.

The Fundraiser Items are here. You are welcome to come to the building and pick them up anytime today.

Attention ALMA SPIKES parents:Fundraiser items will NOT be here today. Our order did not make it to Memphis in time this morning. They have promised delivery tomorrow.

Attention ALMA SPIKES parents:Fundraiser items will NOT be here today. Our order did not make it to Memphis in time this morning to be on the delivery truck. They have promised delivery tomorrow. Sorry for any inconvenience.

Just a reminder to everyone!
Fundraiser Delivery Date
Dec 2

PTO Meeting: Pictures With Santa
December 15th, 5:30
Watch your Pocahontas Redskins take on the Star City Bulldogs, live Friday at 7:00pm http://livestream.com/pocahontaspsd-tv/events/4521216

Training on a new school App. today.