Welcome Letter

 

August 19, 2025

Dear Fifth Grade Fantasticos & Parents!

It's hard to believe that school is almost back in session...such a quick summer!  For those of you who are unfamiliar with me, I started at Hillcrest as a 5th grade teacher, was reassigned to 3rd grade for 8 years or so.  After finally mastering my basic math facts I was "promoted" back to 5th grade again and again was assigned third grade.  But guess what?  Mrs. Jones-Tates said she needed me back in 5th grade...and abracadabra...I'm back!   So, I have been teaching fifth grade again since we moved into the newly revovated Hillcrest (2021-22).  It's exciting to have the opportunity to share a year with some of my former  scholars'  siblings and at the same time make gaggles of new friends to share the year with, too.  I am anticipating a wonderful year. We will work at learning lots...but we will pepper it all with fun, laughter, and of course...hugs, handshakes, & high fives!   I hope you have had a wonderful summer and that you've s-t-r-e-t-c-h-e-d your brain and have used some of the things you learned in 4th grade -- you know...math facts, writing stories, and most importantly, reading some great books that you can recommend to me and your classmates!

My summer has been filled with professional personal development experiences to help me be a teacher of excellence for each of you.  Outside of that, I have been busy spending time with my 17-year-old son, Tanner, and husband, Alex.  We have enjoyed some beach time with relatives and friends this summer.  Some of my favorite memories are grilling in our yard with relatives (my Dad's 92nd birthday party was this past weekend!), playing with our spunky dog, Maverick, and going for walks on the beach and boardwalk (sigh!).   I look forward to hearing what fabulous experiences you've had this summer, too.   Most of us (yes, even teachers who love their jobs!) dread the thought of getting up earlier and having to do homework after a carefree summer.

Nonetheless, I am excited to meet you and our entire class family on at the Open House &/or First Day of School!  I hope you are getting excited to meet (or greet) me and embark on a year of adventures together!

  Mark your calendars now for these important "Hillcrest Happenings":  

THURSDAY, August 28 -- Open House: (3:00 - 4:00 p.m.)
Grades 1st thru 6th only.  (Please come!)

• • • Take a self-guided tour of Hillcrest, meet ME, the specialists, and fellow classmates!
    • Bring heavy (or all) school supplies to drop off in your classroom OR pick-up your pre-purchased box of school supplies (via PTO)
    • Sign-up for the PTO or get more information about joining or how to get involved!

• Monday, September 1st - Labor Day - No School!

TUESDAY, September 2 -- 1st Day of School (Rise and shine!)

Please bring:

• • • • • healthy snack & water bottle (refillable preferred)
        • independent reading book
        • photo or momento of a summer memory (don't overthink this!)
        • all supply list items
          • place headsets in a large Ziploc-type baggie with your name written on it in permanent marker
        • Good attitude - get a good night's sleep Sunday evening!

THURSDAY, September 4 -- Back to School Night: ALL Grades - 2 presentations.  (Please come!)

• • • Classroom teacher presentation 1 (6:00 - 6:45 p.m.)
    • Classroom teacher presentation 2 (6:45 - 7:30 p.m.)
    • Visit Specials / Specialists available (6:45 - 7:45 p.m.)

September 23 & 24 - Happy Rosh Hashanah - No School!

October 2 - Yom Kippur  observed- No School!

October 8 - Early Dismissal (12:15 pm)

Be sure to visit the Supply List link to the left (or above) that will help you be an organized & successful 5th grader.  This list was posted in June on the Hillcrest home page.  

Enjoy your last days of summer and get ready for a terrific 5th grade adventure!  Together we can make it your best year yet!  

Fondly, Mrs. Lenicky  :)
(Your wacky, but likeable teacher!)