PTA Updates

Spring Book Fair

March 3, 2024 - March 9, 2024

The kids got a sneak peek of the bookfair Friday, they are coming home with their lists! Stop by school on Monday from 10A-2P to be the very first shoppers and have some strawberry shortcake! You can still sign up to volunteer! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090B4CAFA622AAF94-47681692-spring#/ Check out Preview day last Friday!

Preview Auction Items

February 29, 2024

Help make our grass green again! All proceeds from our 2024 Silent and Live auctions will help fund our Turf Project - we are finalizing phase 1 (inside the track) and will begin phase 2. 

We have some amazing auction items including:

  • Backyard Makeover! Place your bids to secure this highly-coveted backyard makeover package! With this win you will receive Landscape design services by Bee Landscaping, 1,000 square feet of turf installed by Creative Edge in your choice of three different turf options, Landscape lighting by Tampa Nightscapes, a discount on your custom fire pit or outdoor kitchen by Cookin' Outdoors, a 30-gallon tree from TreeMart, and a beautiful outdoor canvas from Landscape Fusion. Valued at over $11,000, this package could transform your backyard into the oasis of your dreams!
     
    Screen Shot 2024-01-27 at 9.48.24 PM.png
  • Boat Charter - Get ready to bid on a private boat charter on "Never Winterized," a 2023 Sea Ray 400 SLX!  Valued at $2,400, your four-hour charter includes boat rental, licensed Captain, cleaning fees, insurance and fuel. Boat picks up at Gandy Boat Ramp in South Tampa. Charter date to be mutually agreed upon with the boat owner. Must be used by 12/31/24.
    Never Winterized.png
  • Start planning your LegoLand getaway!  This auction item includes FOUR tickets to LegoLand Florida and a two-night stay at an AirBnB in Winter Haven, the perfect launch point for a LegoLand adventure!  Only 7 miles from Legoland, your 3-bedroom / 2-bathroom rental is situated on a peaceful canal.  After a day at the park with your family, relax by the screened pool and hot tub or enjoy wildlife at the dock. Tropical greenery provides shade and beauty.  Your booking includes rental and cleaning fees and is valid through August 31, 2024.  LegoLand and home rental package valued at $976.

Lost and Found

February 27, 2024 - March 8, 2024

Looking for your coat or jacket?   There are lots of lost and found items that want to find their owner!


Parents, stop by the front of the school during drop off or any time in the front office to look through and find your student's lost items.  

Yearbook Orders

February 14, 2024

Yearbooks are on sale now for $25, but the price goes up on March 1st.

To order, visit www.strawbridge.net and use the code: YB28647 to order. 

Buy Your Auction Tickets Today

January 27, 2024 - February 16, 2024

Join us on Feburary 17th for our Wild About Grady Auction Gala.  

There will be dinner, dancing, a wine pull, class baskets on display and a live auction exclusive to just those in attendance. 

Want to Name the Carline Circle? 

Want to have your college's flag displayed proudly throughout the school year in the front of the school?

Want to skip the car line all school year? 

Buy your tickets here today


You won't want to miss it!

Art Summer Camp

January 25, 2024 - March 10, 2024

Our very own Ms. Timmons will be hosting Craft Lab Arts Summer Camp

Contact: Jade Timmons 

302-448-0298

[email protected]

All art material included, and snack provided. 

VPK Applications

January 17, 2024

VPK applications for the 2024-2025 school year will be available in the ofice on Wednesday, Jan 17th at 7:00am. Please comin and fill out the form if interested.

Back to School Book Drive

January 16, 2024 - January 19, 2024

Please bring us any gently-used books your family has outgrown and they will be donated to the classrooms and library at West Tampa Elementary. Look for the BOOK DRIVE sign at morning drop off (7:15-7:40) or deliver  them to the box in the front office

Media Center Needs Volunteers!!

November 17, 2023 - July 27, 2024

  

Media Center Volunteers (weekly)

Weekly help needed shelving books, assistance during class visits, reading, special projects, etc.

*One of the largest classes in school comes through on Monday between 10A-12P, we would love to fill that spot as soon as possible. Also, we know things come up… if you can’t make it every single week, it’s ok!  Any help is better than none. If you would like to come during your child’s class, I can let you know their teacher’s day/time.

Slots are Monday - Friday 8:30- 10am, 10-12pm, OR 12-2pm

Please contact Kate Grooms with any questions or to sign up for a volunteer slot.  [email protected]

Claim your Lost & Found items

November 14, 2023 - December 8, 2023

Lost and found items are out on display in the cafeteria.  Please have your student check the stage area for any items they may be missing.  All items unclaimed by Friday December 8th will be donated.  Thanks!

Family Night - Dairy Joy Nov 16th

November 9, 2023 - November 17, 2023

Join us Thursday November 16th at Dairy Joy on Manhattan for Grady Family Night.  

Mention that you are with Grady and the school receives a portion of the proceeds.

Grady PTA will be adding the names of veterans to our Wall of Heroes. Please complete the form below to add your hero to the wall. Names must be added by Nov 5th.

 

 

Reflections Art Contest - Deadline October 13th

October 12, 2023 - November 14, 2028

This is a reminder that the PTA Reflections "I'm Hopeful Because" contest is due Monday, October 13th to the fronto office. There will be 1st, 2nd, 3rd and Honorable Mention awards given out. 

Here are some important details in reference to turning in the art:

- Copies of the entry form are available in Ms. Grigsby's art room. Make sure the entry form is filled out correctly and completely. Please check over it to make sure the student has an artist statement and that all required signatures are there.

- Make sure the student adheres to the paper size requirements 

- The artwork and entry form must be turned in on time.

If you have any questions, please contact [email protected] or click on the link: Reflections Art Program

Schools Partner In Pedestrian and Bike Safety

March 20, 2023 - May 26, 2023

                            

 

Families and neighbors - Your neighborhood schools have partnered together to address a growing concern: speeding through the neighborhoods and not properly stopping at crosswalks.

South Tampa traffic is getting worse and the streets surrounding our schools are becoming popular thoroughfares.  School PTAs are working with city officials on many safety enhancements, but we are asking our families and neighbors to help with a simple action - full stops before crosswalks and slower driving. 

With daylight savings upon us, our students and families will be out and about even more. Take a moment to be honest about your own driving habits. Are you fully stopping and assessing sidewalk traffic before evaluating the roadway? Indeed, it’s necessary at many stops to inch into the crosswalk to safely see the road, but please stop to assess the crosswalk traffic first, before inching forward.

If you have a walker or biker in the household, please remind them of their responsibility as well to stop and look before proceeding into a crosswalk.  There are many crosswalks where blind spots exist (this is especially important to relay to middle grade students). 

If we all set the tone for driving patiently and cautiously, then perhaps others will too and our once quiet, undiscovered neighborhoods will get quieter once more – and possibly become undesirable to use for passing through! Please share this message with every driver in your household and thank you for your assistance in this matter.

The Hillsborough County School Board is proposing changes to the boundaries of Grady, Coleman and Plant. They intend to move students and families from our A rated schools to C- rated schools. We must stand up and protect our children's future!

For more information and to get involved click the links below:

TampaChildren.com (Click Here)

Also please join our Facebook group:

HCPS-Boundary Change (Click Here)

ATTENTION NEIGHBORS: ACT NOW

AGAINST THE PROPOSED SCHOOL BOUNDARY CHANGES

WHICH MAY ELIMINATE OUR KIDS’ ACCESS TO

A-RATED COLEMAN MIDDLE SCHOOL AND PLANT HIGH SCHOOL

 

Who is affected: Homes in North Bon Air, Westshore Palms, Beach Park and Oakford Park areas have been targeted in scenario 2 & 3 in the Hillsborough County Public School Boundary Analysis as being rezoned from A rated schools (Coleman and Plant) to C rated schools (Pierce and Jefferson). We are asking all neighbors to speak out and support scenario 1 which keeps Coleman and Plant in our district.

Why should you care:

  • Scenario 2 & 3 will drop property values – many bought homes here for Plant school zoning
  • Our kids’ education is at stake - children will be moved from A-rated to C-rated schools
  • Scenario 2 & 3 target diverse and middle-lower class families in our neighborhood – Plant already has the highest % of white students in the entire school district (68% white). Many of the 17% Hispanic, 5% black, 3% Asian live in our neighborhood
  • Lack of transparency - The school district presented this information with a limited timeframe and lack of accurate research for our growing community. Changes could take effect in the 2023/2024 school year
  • SCENARIO 1 saves the school district money and impacts the fewest people.

What you can do to help prevent our homes in the Grady/Coleman/Plant Districts from being re-zoned:

  • MOST IMORTANT – ATTEND THE SCHOOL BOARD MEETING Jan 10th -4-6pm at ROSSAC: 901 E. Kennedy Blvd
  • Sign the petition: https://www.change.org/NOtoRezone
  • Submit comments often through the boundary analysis map (Say no to Scenarios 2&3 in support of each other): www.hcps-boundary.org
  • Contact the superintendent and school board members.  Our school board representative is Stacy Hahn ([email protected]).  Our superintendent is Addison Davis ([email protected])
  • Share on social media or message/post on the HCPS Facebook page: www.facebook.com/HillsboroughSch
  • Join your neighbors to discuss other ideas to stop this rezoning in the Facebook Group: HCPS-Boundary Change

 

 

ATENCIÓN VECINOS: ACTÚE AHORA

EN CONTRA DE LOS CAMBIOS PROPUESTOS EN LOS LÍMITES ESCOLARES

LO QUE PUEDE ELIMINAR EL ACCESO DE NUESTROS HIJOS A

ESCUELA INTERMEDIA COLEMAN Y ESCUELA SECUNDARIA PLANT CON CALIFICACIÓN A

 

Quién se ve afectado: Las casas en las áreas de North Bon Air, Westshore Palms, Beach Park y Oakford Park han sido seleccionadas en el escenario 2 y 3 en el Análisis de Límites de las Escuelas Públicas del Condado de Hillsborough como rezonificación de escuelas con calificación A (Coleman y Plant) a escuelas con calificación C (Pierce y Jefferson). Estamos pidiendo a todos los vecinos que hablen y apoyen el escenario 1 que mantiene a Coleman y Plant en nuestro distrito.

Por qué debería importarle:

  1. Los escenarios 2 y 3 reducirán el valor de las propiedades: muchos compraron casas aquí por la zonificación de la escuela Plant.
  2. La educación de nuestros hijos está en juego: los niños serán trasladados de escuelas con calificación A a escuelas con clasificación C
  3. Los escenarios 2 y 3 se dirigen a familias diversas y de clase media-baja en nuestro vecindario: Plant ya tiene el porcentaje más alto de estudiantes blancos en todo el distrito escolar (68% blancos).  Muchos del 17% hispano, 5% negro, 3% asiático viven en nuestro vecindario
  4. Falta de transparencia - El distrito escolar presentó esta información con un marco de tiempo limitado y falta de investigación precisa para nuestra creciente comunidad. Los cambios podrían entrar en vigor en el año escolar 2023/2024
  5. El ESCENARIO 1 ahorra dinero al distrito escolar e impacta a la menor cantidad de personas.

Lo que puede hacer para ayudar a evitar que nuestros hogares en los distritos de Grady/Coleman/Plant sean rezonificados:

  1. IMPORTANTE- Atienda la reunion de la junta de colegios el 10 de Enero 4-6pm at ROSSAC: 901 E. Kennedy Blvd
  2. Firma la petición: https://www.change.org/NOtoRezone
  3. Envíe comentarios a menudo a través del mapa de análisis de límites (Diga no a los escenarios 2 y 3 en apoyo mutuo): www.hcps-boundary.org
  4. Póngase en contacto con el superintendente y los miembros de la junta escolar.  Nuestra representante de la junta escolar es Stacy Hahn ([email protected]).  Nuestro superintendente es Addison Davis ([email protected])
  5. Comparta en las redes sociales o envíe un mensaje/publicación en la página de Facebook de HCPS: www.facebook.com/HillsboroughSch
  6. Únase a sus vecinos para discutir otras ideas para detener esta rezonificación en el grupo de Facebook: HCPS-Cambio de límites

 

On Tuesday, February 14th the Kindergarten students will be putting on a Valentine's Day performance and you're invited!
 
  • 8:35 am - Rooms 1 & 2 (Ms. Lane & Mrs. Dosal's classes)
  • 9:00 am - Rooms 3 & 4 (Ms. Finitz & Mrs. Dreby's classes)
 
Please be sure you have enough time to go to the office and sign in before your child's performance starts. The show will be in the cafeteria and you can bring up to four guests per child.
 
Your kiddo can wear their best Valentines outfit. Red, pink, purple, or white shirts or dresses preferred.

Greeting Grady Tigers,

  
As the media specialist here at Grady, I would like to take a moment to thank the PTA and greater community for the support that has been shown throughout the renovation of the media center. I cannot begin to tell you what a positive impact it has had on the students, myself, and the rest of the staff. It is a much happier and inviting place to spend time. It would never have been possible without the help of many parents who worked tirelessly throughout the process, whether it was in the planning and design, the packing up prior to, the cleaning and reshelving of the books afterwards, or financial contributions. I am so happy to be a part of the Grady community that made this possible. My sincere thanks go out to every one of you that supported this effort.

  
I would like to invite all of you to be a part of the media program going forward so that it can continue
to better serve our students. Now that Covid has become less of a threat, and volunteers are returning
to the school, please consider finding a little time to assist in the media center. There are many ways
you can help, whether it be assisting with the day-to-day operations like checking out or shelving books,
assisting with book processing, reading to the lower grades, assisting in creating stimulating library
displays. We are also hoping to find several imaginative, enthusiastic people to assist in the design and
implementation of other programs such as the S.L.A.M showcase, author visits or our Makerspace. And,
of course, our book fairs require the work of many people to set up, run and pack up after the fun.

  
If you are interested in assisting, please contact me at [email protected] with a brief introduction
and an indication of what you would enjoy doing to make the library the best in the district. With your
help we can achieve that goal.

Congratulations to Dora Garcia, Leslie Ona, and Jade Timmons for being awarded for their commitment to excellence in education!
 
Dora Garcia - Instructional Support Employee of the Year - iPEEPS/VPK Support
 
Leslie Ona - Teacher of the Year - 3rd Grade Teacher
 
Jade Timmons - Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year - Art Teacher
 
Thank you for always going above and beyond for our students!
 
Grady Elementary Chorus is starting up on Monday, September 12th, 2022.
  
Chorus is open to all students in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade.
We will have 2 shows this year. 
December 15th, 2022, will be our winter/holiday concert.
March 30th, 2023, will be our spring show.
 
* Rehearsals are held on Monday afternoons, right after school for 1 hour, from 1:05 - 2:05. 
* Pick-up will be at 2:10 at the front of the school. 
* Attire for the shows will vary, more information will come to the students in chorus. Grady's uniform of a Navy Top and Khaki Bottoms is classic, and a standard if your child does not want to dress up. 
 
You may register by using the link or the QR Code below.
 
Chorus Registration. Also at https://tinyurl.com/GradyChorus-2223
 

Grady Is #1 School & Awarded School of Excellence!!

September 1, 2022 - June 24, 2023

Grady Elementary was ranked #1 elementary school in Hillsborough County and #9 in the state of Florida. Alos, Grady PTA has earned the 2021-2023 School of Excellence designation. Thank you to all volunteers, teachers and staff for your support! If you would like to participate in Grady PTA please email [email protected].
Please click on the video about funding issues in our schools and be aware that the millage referendum is included in the August 23rd primary ballot (along with the school board elections for district 2, 4, and 6). To get more information about the millage referendum, please visit https://www.hillsboroughschools.org/strongschools. 
 
Click on https://www.votehillsborough.gov/VOTERS/Election-Day-Voting to get more information about voting hours and locations on Tuesday, August 23rd. 
 
To watch an informational video, click the "Related file" below.
The next PTA General Meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 16th at 7:45am in the Teacher's Lounge. During this meeting we will vote in our new Treasurer, Dan Goldberg. We will also review and approve the 2022-2023 budget.
We will be collecting gently used clothing for Clothes to Kids and school uniforms for our Uniform Swap at Open House in August. Please drop off any donations in the bin in front of the main office during school hours. 

Mr. Bruce's Retirement

May 15, 2022

Mr. Bruce is retiring after 21 years at Grady Elementary. PTA is collecting notes and emails from current and former students to share with him. Please drop off a note in the main office or send an email to [email protected] by Friday, May 20th. 

Summer VPK will be held at Mitchell Elementary. They are taking a limited number of students. Children entering Kindergarten this upcoming August and have not been in a VPK class are eligible. Scan the QR code to register. 

Working with the Hillsborough Transportation Planning Organization (TPO), Hillsborough County Public Schools is seeking input from our stakeholders about the transportation challenges and successes experienced related to student routes to and from school.

Please take a few minutes to respond to the 2022 Getting Students to School Survey by clicking:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HCPS2022SRTS

If your household travels to and from more than one school, please respond to the survey for each route traveled.

Your answers to this survey will be combined with other data to guide a Safe Routes to School (SRTS) study that TPO will be conducting.

School Board Member Jessica Vaughn is currently a member of TPO.  The goal of this study is to identify a set of schools for more detailed transportation review.

This review will work to improve car line circulation, enhance the safety of current routes to school, and encourage students to walk, bike, and ride the bus to school.

Your participation is greatly appreciated.  All responses will remain anonymous and will not be used to identify you in any reporting. 

Additional information about the SRTS study can be found by visiting: 

https://planhillsborough.org/school/

Thank you.

April is "Light it Up Blue Autism Awareness" Month.

This picture was taken last Friday at Grady. Every Friday is Light is Up Blue to promote Autism Awareness during the month of April. The students are decorating puzzle pieces which they will be displaying in the hallway by the office (where the Veteran Stars usually go). One of our students will be selecting a winner daily for a prize. The winners are being announced on the morning show. We have several classrooms with ASD students at our school. We also currently have a DonorsChoose Project going on that would benefit our ASD students here at Grady. You can click the link or use the QR code below to donate to Grady's DonorsChoose Project.

 

Grady's DonorsChoose Project link

https://www.donorschoose.org/project/grady-elementary-autism-awareness-fundra/6318574/

 

Grady's DonorsChoose Project QR Code

Spring Concerts Information and schedules!!!

March 8, 2022 - March 31, 2022

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grady Spring Concerts

 

Wednesday, March 30th: 1st and 2nd Grade 80's Concert 

All students in 1st and 2nd Grade 

6pm in the Cafeteria

1st Grade: "Goonies r Good Enough", "Holiday", "Cuel Summer"

2nd Grade: "Never Gonna Give You Up", "Don't Worry Be Happy", "Stand"

 

Thursday, March 31st: 3rd - 5th Grade 80's Concert 

Chorus Members Only 3rd - 5th Grade

6pm in the Cafeteria

 

Costume: Anything 80's: big hair, ripped jeans, rolled jeans, neon, spandex, lacy skirts and shirts, leg warmers, high-side ponytail, mullets, cut-off sweatshirts, double polo shirts with popped collars, etc.

 

Time Frames: Chorus students need to arrive in the Chorus room, 26, from 5-5:30pm, and the concerts will start at 6pm.

 

We are looking forward to seeing you today at The Grady Gatsby Dinner & Auction! We are looking forward to a roaring good time raising funds to revamp our Media Center!

 

To bid on items, click here

 

Items you can bid on:

 

Baskets: Class Baskets and Baskets from Local Businesses can be found in the silent auction or auction items tab. These baskets will also be displayed at auction and can be picked up at auction after the silent auction closes at 9:00PM, a last call announcement will be made before closing silent auction.

 

Certificates: Certificates collected by Homerooms and Certificates donated by Local Businesses can be found in the silent auction tab. Can be picked up at auction after the silent auction closes at 9:00PM, a last call announcement will be made before closing silent auction.

 

Teacher Experiences: Mr. Campbell will choose one Day in May where the students will run the school. All students that won teachers' experiences will be teachers for the day on that day. If a student wins more than one experience, arrangements will be made. Outing experiences will be scheduled with the teacher offering the experience. PTA will share a list of the people that won each experience with the school. There is no certificate to be collected for this experience. 

 

Paw Prints at the front of the school: You can find this item under the auction invitation, click the tab for Instabuy. You will see 1 listing for Paw Prints. Paw Prints are on sale for $250, you can have your family name or student name on it. Paw Prints will be painted over the summer and will stay at the front of the school until May 2023.

 

Live Auction: Live auction items are only available to people that attend the auction. You can see the items we have available for Live Auction in Qtego.

 

Thanks for supporting the Grady PTA! We can't wait to have a roaring good time at the auction!

 

The Grady PTA Auction Committee

Unlock the Treasures of Reading Night Cancelled Jan 19th

January 19, 2022 - January 20, 2022

Dear Tiger Families,
 
Out of an abundance of caution, Grady's Pirate Reading Night has been cancelled. We look forward to having the even next year.
 
Thank you and stay safe.
 
Sincerely,
 
The Grady PTA

The PTA needs your help!!!

January 13, 2022 - March 15, 2022

  

Dear Tiger Families,

 

Our PTA seeks your support and engagement to improve the condition of the intersection of W. Bay to Bay Boulevard at S. Lois Avenue.
 
Although Bay to Bay is located in the City of Tampa, it is a county road. An interlocal agreement between the city and Hillsborough County requires the county to pay for the installation of traffic signals on the entire County Road system, including roads in the city. On March 15 of each year, the city gives the county a list of priorities for county-funded improvements. An all-way traffic signal has been requested for this intersection for the past three years.
 
Presently, Hillsborough County has approved, but has not installed Rapid Response Flashing Beacons, to be placed adjacent to the existing crosswalk. This is a fine temporary fix, but it is not enough.
 
Therefore, we ask that you, our school’s families, engage with Hillsborough County Commissioners to demand (1) immediate installation of the Rapid Response Flashing Beacons, and (2) expedited planning and engineering of a traffic light in the intersection. We must demand that Hillsborough County deliver safer conditions for our families.
 
Please click on this link, Email Commissioners and select “Email All Commissioners,” describe the Subject as “Bay to Bay at Lois” and put this message in the message box:
 
Dear County Commission, please immediately install the Rapid Response Flashing Beacons that are already approved for the intersection of W. Bay to Bay Blvd. at S. Lois Ave., and (2) please expedite planning and engineering of an all-way traffic signal in the intersection. This is an important issue to me and my family. Thank you.
 
Once you have sent your emails, please share this information with your friends and neighbors. It is up to us to demand safety for our children and our community. Thank you for your efforts and time.
 
Sincerely,
 
The Grady PTA
 

Storybook Costume Day

 

Due to COVID there will NOT be a Storybook Parade this year. In its place we will have a Storybook Costume Day on Friday, October 29th. Teachers, staff and students are invited to dress in a costume depicting a favorite storybook character. Students are also encouraged to bring the book that depicts the character they are wearing.

Thank you to all families and friends that helped us reach our goal. We hit it out of the park and doubled our goal! We will be finalizing our individual prizes at the end of the week, so please check your account to make sure it shows what you were expecting. All cash donations received as of Friday afternoon have been added.

 

Friends and Family please click on this link to donate and help our school!!
 
 
#itspossiblewithpop
 
Tiger Trek will be on Thursday, October 7th and will include the distribution of t-shirts and pedometers.
 
Class parties and extra recess days for the winning classes will take place on Friday, October 8th. Teachers and Staff will also receive a treat on this day.
 
Step it Up prizes will be distributed partially in October and the rest on the Day of Awesomeness.
 
Due to current district protocols, the Day of Awesomeness is scheduled for Wednesday, March 2nd.
  
Volunteers are need for Tiger Trek.
 
The district has granted permission to have limited volunteers on campus on an as-needed basis. PTA or your teachers will reach out when there is a volunteer opportunity available.
   
Please note that all volunteers must complete a District Volunteer Application (https://apps.raptortech.com/Apply/NTc0MTplbi1VUw==) and must abide by district guidelines, which includes wearing a mask while on campus. 
 
Volunteers are needed to help with Tiger Trek on Thursday, October 7thCLICK HERE to sign up for a time slot.

Save The Dates!!! (upcoming events)

September 29, 2021 - March 5, 2022

Thank you to everyone who participated in Spirit Night at Moe's. Save the date for the below listed upcoming events.

  On Tuesday, September 21st, individual Fall picture will be taken. Information will be sent home with your student. It will contain an envelope with information on the packages you may purchase. All pictures must be paid for in advance. Pay at Strawbridge.net using the Online Code: FM363261 or return envelope that was sent home by Monday, September 20th. Please make checks payable to Strawbridge and include your address, phone number, student's name and student number for identification. 

  Your child has the opportunity to wear something different, still school appropriate, for their school pictures. Please wear bright colored clothes and a big Grady smile on Tuesday, September 21, 2021.

Mask Mandate extended until October 15, 2021!

September 9, 2021 - October 15, 2021

Dear Families,

At this evening’s regularly scheduled School Board meeting, Board members voted to extend the existing mask mandate for an additional 30 days. The mask mandate is now in place until October 15, 2021. The Board allows for a medical exemption opt-out of the mask mandate.

Before this evening’s decision, the Board was presented evidence that suggests the mask mandate is helping to keep positive cases and quarantines lower in our schools:

  • August 18 – Mask mandate instituted. 10,722 student/staff impacted by positive case or quarantine;
  • August 20 – Greatest number of students and staff impacted. 13,485 student/staff impacted by positive case or quarantine;
  • September 8 – 5,647 students/staff impacted - a 58% decrease from August 20.

The district will continue following other mitigation strategies on campus that are recommended by the CDC including having hand sanitizer in all buildings and encouraging hand washing throughout the day. The district will also work with our health partners to provide opportunities for vaccination clinics.

The Board and the District will continue to monitor the situation along with our local health partners.

Thank you,

Hillsborough County Public Schools

Face Covering Update

August 7, 2021 - September 3, 2021

hcpslogo

Parents and Guardians,

Our teachers, administrators, and support professionals are excited to welcome students back for the 2021-22 school year. I understand many of our parents remain concerned as COVID-19 continues to spread in our community, but please know that district leaders have been working tirelessly to ensure campuses are prepared to provide proper health and safety protocols when students and staff return.

On Friday, the Florida Department of Health adopted a new Emergency Rule, 64DER-21-12, which states “Students may wear masks or facial coverings as a mitigation measure, however, the school must allow for a parent or legal guardian to opt-out the student from wearing a face covering or mask.”

With that said, I am announcing today that Hillsborough County Public Schools will require face coverings but will allow parents or guardians to opt their child out from wearing a face covering or mask. This requirement will continue until at least September 3rd. We will continue to work with our health partners at TGH/USF Health to monitor conditions in our community at that time to make further decisions.

While the outcome may be the same whether we make face coverings optional or required with an opt-out, we believe this decision continues to illustrate that Hillsborough County Public Schools takes public safety seriously. We want to ensure we are doing all we can to help community wide efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. By taking this position today, we hope this provides our families time over the weekend to talk with their children before the start of school on Tuesday, August 10.

Parents will be expected to have conversations with their children so that students will follow through with their parents’ expectations regarding wearing masks while at school.

If you wish to opt-out your child, please fill out the HCPS Mask Opt Out Form here - web.hillsboroughschools.org/maskoptoutThe only parents who should fill out the form are those who do not want their child to wear a mask. Parents must fill out a form for each child.

We are excited for the new school year and we thank you for trusting Hillsborough County Public Schools with your child’s education.

Respectfully,

Addison G. Davis

Superintendent of Schools

Beginning Of School Year Important Information

July 28, 2021 - August 31, 2021

Changes to Grady Security Protocols and Events

Due to changes in Hillsborough County Public Schools' policies, Grady Elementary updated the 2021-22 Security Procedures. On Tuesday, August 10th, parents will be able to walk their students to their classroom door. Starting on Wednesday, August 11th, students will enter campus independently through the designated front gates. Extra faculty, patrols, and Grady's Security Officer will be available to assist as needed. 

 

In addition, no visitors will be allowed on campus for the first 30 days. As a result, we have cancelled Tiger Tears (August 10th) and Grandparent's Breakfast (Sept 2 & 3). 

 

Due to the new Covid protocols, we have tentatively scheduled after school enrichment clubs to run from September 27th - November 17th. More details will be shared in early September. 

 

To view the HCPS's Covid-19 student protocols, please click here.  

  

School Kits

Thank you to everyone that ordered School Kits! The kits are being delivered to Grady and will be sent to your child's classroom by Open House. Please note that the kits do not include backpacks or headphones. If you did not order the school kits, you can find the list of supplies by grade HERE.

 

Uniform Swap

PTA will be hosting a Uniform Swap at Open House on August 6th from 8:00 - 10:00 am. You can drop off your gently worn uniforms at the Grady Elementary Office from July 26th - August 4th. Uniforms will be sorted by size and available to pick up during Open House. 

 

After School Enrichment Clubs

After School Enrichment Clubs are planned for Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays in Fall from September 13 - November 17th. More details about clubs will be announced in mid-August. Volunteers are needed for ASE Club attendance and dismissal. Please contact [email protected] if you are interested in volunteering. 

 

Amazon Wishlists

While purchasing teacher wish list items, please designate Grady PTA as the recipient of a portion of your Amazon purchases on Amazon Smile. Follow the link: https://smile.amazon.com/ch/23-7102322 to get started.  

 

Save the Date for Upcoming Events

PTA General Meeting via Zoom - August 13th at 8:00 am

    Zoom id: 246 994 1760

    Pw: Grady

    This will be a very quick meeting to review and approve our 2021-22 budget and vote in two new executive board members: 

  1.   Secretary - Katie Sickle
  2.   Corresponding Secretary - Rachel Zysk

 

Dad's Club 

1st meeting will be held Thursday, August 26th from 7-9 pm at the Brass Tap at 203 N. Dale Mabry Highway. Please RSVP to [email protected] and include your contact information (name and phone #). Dad's Club is open to all Grady dads.

2021-2022 Student Calendar

Board Approved 4/28/20

Students’ First Day of School

August 10, 2021

Labor Day Holiday/Non-Student Day

September 6, 2021

End of 1st Grading Period

October 8, 2021

*Veterans Day/Non-Student Day

November 11, 2021

*Fall Break/Non-Student Days

November 22 26, 2021

Students Return to School

November 29, 2021

End of 2nd Grading Period (End of 1st Semester)

December 17, 2021

Winter Break/Non-Student Days

December 20, 2021 December 31, 2021

Non-Student Day

January 3, 2022

Students Return to School

January 4, 2022

Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday/Non-Student Day

January 17, 2022

Non-Student Day

February 18, 2022

Presidents’ Day/Non-Student Day

February 21, 2022

Non-Student Day

March 7, 2022

End of 3rd Grading Period

March 11, 2022

Spring Break/Non-Student Days

March 14 18, 2022

Non-Student Day

March 21, 2022

Students Return to School

March 22, 2022

Non-Student Day

April 15, 2022

Last Day of School/End of 4th Grading Period (End of 2nd Semester)

May 27, 2022

* Hurricane Day(s) if needed: November 11, 22-24, and 26, 2021

Student Early Release Days

Students are released one hour early every Monday.
On the last day of school, May 27, 2022, students are released 2.5 hours early.

Edited 6/21/21

Grab and Go Meals for Summer!

June 8, 2021 - August 10, 2021


hcpslogo

Parents and families,

We know many students rely on our schools for access to nutritious breakfast and lunch throughout the academic year. The needs of our children do not go away once the school year ends.

That is why we are pleased to announce Hillsborough County Public Schools will be providing grab-and-go meals this summer at no cost to children 18 years of age and younger at 36 school sites.

Students will be provided with two days’ worth of breakfast and lunch every Monday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Distribution will begin on June 2nd and run through August 5th.

If a child is not present while picking up the meals, parents should be prepared to provide their child’s student number or their child’s name and birthdate for tracking purposes.

The summer grab-and-go sites are as listed below:

summer feeding

Students enrolled in face-to-face summer school programs will also be provided free breakfast and lunch each day.

We thank our student nutrition services staff for continuing to work diligently to feed our learners year-round.

Have a great summer!

Addison G. Davis

Superintendent of Schools

Free Bike Helmet and Fitting Event at Grady Elementary

Did you know that wearing a properly fitted bicycle helmet reduces the risk of head, brain, and severe brain injury by up to 88%?

TO HELP KEEP STUDENTS SAFE, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital will be hosting a Drive-Through Bicycle Safety event in partnership with Sidewalk Stompers to promote proper helmet use and provide students with FREE bike helmets. 

Attendees will receive bicycle safety information and a FREE bike helmet.  

*For safety purposes, all individuals attending these events are required to wear a face mask. 

*Student must be registered and present to receive a helmet. 

 

When: Thursday, May 13th from 3:30 - 5:30 pm
Where: Grady Elementary. Helmet fitting will take place in the car loop on Morrison Ave. 
What to bring: Your head. Also, your helmet if you already have one.
Who: Certified helmet fitters from Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital and Sidewalk Stompers, Inc.
How: Register here

School Supply Drive for 2021-2022!

May 13, 2021 - May 28, 2021

We will be collecting school supplies for our students in need for the 2021-22 school year. Our goal is to collect 35 bags. We have a list of commonly needed supplies below and also created an Amazon wishlist that will send supplies directly to the PTA: Grady PTA School Supply Drive Amazon Wishlist
 

School Supplies:

·         Pack of Dixon Ticonderoga # 2 pencils

·         Box of 8 pack Washable Markers

·         Plastic 3 prong pocket folders (blue, green, yellow, red)

·         Regular box of 24 crayons

·         Primary scissors

·         Wide ruled spiral notebook 1 subject

·         Pencil Pouch

·         Glue sticks

·         Erasers

·         Wide ruled notebook filler paper

·         Expo markers

·         Composition notebook

·         Backpack

 
Thank you for all of your support! Please contact jannine@gradytigers.org with any questions. 

We would like for feedback. Please complete the School Of Excellence Survey by May 14th.

(Nos gustaría recibir comentarios. Por favor complete la Encuesta de Escuela de Excelencia antes del 14 de mayo.)

 

English version

https://www.gradytigers.org/school-of-excellence-survey

 

Spanish version (versión en Español)

https://www.gradytigers.org/school-of-excellence-survey-spanish

 

Brick and mortar students take home letter about the School of Excellence Survey:

The Grady PTA is looking for volunteers for the 2021-2022 school year. Please attend one of two informational sessions on Thursday, April 1st to find the best position that meets your desired level of participation. Most opportunities can be done from home! You will also have a chance to meet the current PTA President as well as the President Elect for the next school year.
 
Meeting Details
Date: Thursday, April 1st
Time: 8am and 7pm
 
Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 379 084 0619
Passcode: Volunteer

Free Bike Helmet and Fitting Event

 
Did you know that wearing a properly fitted bicycle helmet reduces the risk of head, brain, and severe brain injury by up to 88%?
 

TO HELP KEEP STUDENTS SAFE, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital will be hosting a Drive-Through Bicycle Safety event in partnership with Sidewalk Stompers to promote proper helmet use and provide students with FREE bike helmets. 

Attendees will receive bicycle safety information and a FREE bike helmet.  

*For safety purposes, all individuals attending these events are required to wear a face mask. 

*Student must be registered and present to receive a helmet. 

 

When: Monday, March 29th, 3:45 to 5:30p.m.
Where: Coleman Middle School parking lot - drivers and student bikers, please enter the bus ramp from Estrella Ave. and pull into a designated parking place behind the lunchroom.
What to bring: Your head. Also, your helmet if you already have one.
Who: Certified helmet fitters from Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital and Sidewalk Stompers, Inc.
How: Register here
 
Hello 5th Grade Parents,
 
If your child will be attending Coleman in the fall now is your opportunity to get involved for next year!  Please go to colemanptsa.membershiptoolkit.com  
and register.  After registering, Click on My forms/paperwork from the Drop down menu and then click family information. You will need to add your child and please make sure to mark them as a 5th grader so they will automatically be moved up in the summer. You can then go to calendar subscriptions where you can subscribe to the Coleman Chronicle which is similar to the Roosevelt Charge but only comes out 1-2 times per month. 
 
There are not too many volunteer opportunities available so if you would like to get involved,   Coleman is currently recruiting for their executive board positions which are listed below. Please click the link to fill out the form if you are interested. We are looking for all positions but particularly a Treasurer. The commitment is much smaller in middle school along with a much smaller budget to manage. We utilize Quickbooks for the accounting software which is very user friendly and many of the volunteers work full time so the time commitment is minimal. Willingness to Serve forms for the Board will be sent out in April along with all pertinent information such as Camp Cobra etc for incoming Middle School families.  
 

2020/22 Willingness to Lead (Executive Committee)

The PTSA Nominating Committee is presently seeking nominations for the 2021/22 Executive Committee (elected officers of the PTSA). The positions include: 

President Presides at meetings of the organization. Coordinates and serves as liaison between PTSA, SAC, school staff & administration, students, parents, and community. Serves as a resource and support to all PTSA committees. 

VP of Mini Grants Collects and presents to the PTSA Board all mini-grant requests from school staff & administration, students, and parents. Coordinates collection of supporting documents and related payment for approved mini grants. 

VP of Volunteers Organizes and distributes the contact information of volunteers for all PTSA committees in the first weeks of school. Works with PTSA committees and school staff to assist with volunteer needs. 

VP of Fundraising Implements all fundraising activities for PTSA. In recent history, this is a one-time donation letter writing campaign to all Coleman families included in the First Day Packets.  Creates recognition flyers. Oversees and assists Business Sponsorships Committee and Spirit Nights.

Treasurer Maintains custody of checkbook, oversees all funds, and keeps accurate and timely financial records. Makes disbursements in accordance with approved budget. Presents current financial statements at all General Membership and Board meetings. This is an important position that involves attention to detail, a sense of urgency, and constant communication with the President. 

Recording Secretary Records Minutes of all General Membership and Board meetings and distributes to members. 

Corresponding Secretary Coordinates with all PTSA Board members, school staff & administration and prepares all written communication including emails and the Coleman Chronicle.

Any PTSA member with the willingness and ability to serve and provide leadership is welcome to apply.

Questions?  Please contact Rachel Nestor @[email protected] 

New NO LEFT TURN sign at Grady and Morrison!!

February 10, 2021 - March 31, 2021

Please be aware of the no left turn sign at the intersection of Grady and Morrison. Left turns are not permitted Monday-Friday from 7-8 am or 1-3pm. 

Safer Internet Week Feb 8th - 12th!!

February 8, 2021 - February 12, 2021

We are inviting you to celebrate Safer Internet Day next week by attending a Live Event during our weeklong celebration. We would love for you to consider joining us! Please register using the links below!

 

National PTA is proud to support the goals of Safer Internet Day by hosting an entire week of digital safety experiences February 8-12, 2021 to help PTAs and families create a safer, kinder, more inclusive online community together.

 

This interactive series will include something for everyone—PTA leaders, teachers and family members—including kids! You can attend all our sessions or pick the one that’s right for you.

 

Monday, February 8th at 7:00 PM ET

The Internet Starts with “I” and Ends with “T” (Sponsored by Facebook)

Tune in here: National PTA’s Facebook page

Hear what Connect Safely and National PTA are doing to help PTAs and families stay safe, kind and inclusive online during Safer Internet Week and throughout the year.

 

Tuesday, February 9th at 7:00 PM ET

National PTA’s Safer Internet Day: Real Conversations with Families about Digital Kindness

Register here

Families will share their experiences with online exclusion, racism or bullying, conversations they have had within their families about these experiences, and advice for creating a kinder, more inclusive online community.

 

Wednesday, February 10th at 7:00 PM ET

Workshop: Helping Families Navigate Technology (Sponsored by Google)

Register here

Join us in celebrating Safer Internet Day with the Google Families Team to discuss programs, products, and tools to help families stay safer while using games, apps. While we chat, your kids will be invited to play Interland, a fun game to help kids become a confident explorer of the digital world.

 

Thursday, February 11th at 7:00 PM ET

The Ultimate School Assembly (Sponsored by TikTok)

Tune in here: @_ms_frost_ on TikTok

Everyone’s on TikTok these days! Join in to hear how TikTok creator, Ms. Frost, protects her family's personal information and stay safe online, and how you can do the same with your kids.

 

Friday, February 12th at 7:00 PM ET

Have The Smart Talk (Sponsored by NortonLifeLock)

Register here

Learn about online safety risks, how to create effective digital safety community partnerships, and how The Smart Talk can help your family determine online values, set privacy boundaries and stay better connected.

During the Winter Break, should your family have any positive cases or exposures, please email Mike Campbell. My email address is available on the Grady and Grady PTA websites. Thank you for continuing to partner with us. Our whole school community is dependent on parent communication regarding COVID-19 positivity and exposures in order to stay safe. 

I wanted to say thank you to all the students, families and staff. This has been a very trying year and everyone has been understanding of all the new protocols and changes we have had to endure. We are fortunate to have such a wonderful community here at Grady Elementary. Our wish is for everyone to have a safe Winter Break.

Thank you and stay safe.

Mike Campbell

[email protected]

Yearbook Pictures for eLearners

December 9, 2020 - January 31, 2021

If you did not come to school for your child/children's yearbook photo, you can email a photo.

  • Please send your photo for yearbook in an email to [email protected].
  • Please include "Yearbook Photo" in the subject line.

Hurricane ETA update!!!

November 11, 2020 - November 14, 2020

Hillsborough County Families,

The Hillsborough County Emergency Operations Center has declared a local state of emergency as Tropical Storm Eta continues its path towards the west coast of Florida.

Due to this declaration, several of our school sites have been designated as storm shelters for our community.

We have made the decision to close all schools on Thursday, November 12th and Friday, November 13th.  Rest assured that we did not make this decision lightly as we understand this can create a hardship for our families.  However, we must place the safety of our students and staff first and take many things into consideration that includes possible road closures, high winds, damage to school buildings, power outages and whether our schools are being used as shelters.

All after school activities are canceled for Thursday, however, games and after school activities on Friday will remain as scheduled.  

Even if Hillsborough County receives minimal effects from the storm, please remember our district plays a vital role in supporting our community. Several counties in South Florida and on the west coast have already been declared a state of emergency and their residents will need shelter from the storm.

While schools are closed, teachers and students will be asked to engage in remote learning similar to our “Smart Start Week” back in August as a way to continue instructional momentum. Teachers will use Canvas and other online strategies they use on a regular basis for interacting with students. I understand that many students may not have accessibility to digital devices, so teachers will work with their learners and allow them adequate time to complete all assignments upon our return.  

Today is Veterans Day and is already a scheduled day off from school. With this said, we will continue to monitor this storm over the next few hours and provide updates on its path and overall impact.

We encourage all families and employees to take all necessary precautions at their homes and plan for the possible effects of Tropical Storm Eta. You can stay up to date with the latest information on our district’s Facebook and Twitter pages and on our website at www.hillsboroughschools.org.  At this time, we are projected to reopen on Monday, November 16th.

I appreciate everyone’s flexibility as we partner with our county leaders to ensure residents have a safe haven during this unpredictable time.

Respectfully,

Addison Davis

Superintendent

Refelections Art Program Important Dates!

November 5, 2020 - November 30, 2020

"I Matter Because..." Do you enjoy art? Then join us and have fun unleashing your inner artist with the PTA Reflections! This year's theme, "I Matter Because...," calls for your own unique interpretation through the arts. Please reach out to Mrs. Grigsby if you need paper to complete your project.
 
CLICK HERE for rules and guidelines and to enter, complete the form below.
 
Important Dates:
November 17th - PTA Reflections projects are due. CHANGED DUE TO HURRICAN ETA!!! 
November 18th - Date for Judging
November 20th - Awards announced during Morning Show

The Morning Show now for ELearners!!!

October 29, 2020 - December 31, 2020

We are excited to announce that our E-Learning students can now enjoy the morning show live at 7:40 every morning through zoom.

 

Here is the info: 

Zoom ID # 821 0413 5739 

Passcode  TigerTV#1 

 

The easiest way to connect is by:

  • go to Grady Media Center in Canvas.
  • then click on the Zoom Icon in the navigation bar to the left
  • select the Morning Show Stream meeting. 

If you prefer to go in by the link here it is:   https://sdhc.zoom.us/j/82104135739?pwd=Rm1ITEhtYmRybU1vK3FSZ2I2NTVpdz09

Hillsborough County Public Schools Families,

As COVID-19 continues to impact our community, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided clarification on how organizations define who is considered a close contact of a COVID-19 positive person. This clarification does not impact our COVID-19 Response Protocols, developed in collaboration with the Department of Health – Hillsborough (DOH-Hillsborough), but contains important safety updates designed to keep families safe.

Previously, the CDC described a close contact as someone who was within six feet of an infected person for 15 minutes or more.

The CDC now has further defined a close contact as someone who was within six feet of an infected person for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period starting from two days before illness onset (or, for asymptomatic people, two days prior to test date) until the time the person is isolated.

Using our COVID-19 Response Protocols, we advise our schools to consider the following factors when investigating a close contact:

  • Proximity
  • Duration of exposure
  • Symptoms

Working with the medical experts at the DOH-Hillsborough, school district leaders have always emphasized caution in our decision making and examine each case strategically when determining who had contact with a positive case and in turn, who must quarantine.

Because of our already measured approach with contact tracing, we do not believe this clarification from CDC will result in more individuals from schools required to quarantine. We do understand, however, that medical experts are continually revising guidance and revising direction as they learn more about the transmission of COVID-19. These recommendations are expected to evolve as the virus remains a health concern across the nation.

We also want to remind families that if you suspect you or your child has COVID-19 please visit one of the many testing sites across Hillsborough County. A comprehensive listing of sites can be viewed, here https://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/residents/public-safety/emergency-management/stay-safe/getting-tested. There is no charge for testing at any of these COVID-19 public testing sites and insurance is not required. You can also call DOH-Hillsborough weekdays at 813-307-8076 to schedule testing.

We will continue to work with DOH-Hillsborough on our contract tracing protocols. The health and safety of our students and staff remains a top priority and together, we will reduce the spread of this challenging virus.

 

Respectfully,

Addison G. Davis                                                         Dr. Douglas Holt

Superintendent of Schools                                             Director

Hillsborough County Public Schools                              DOH-Hillsborough

Red Ribbon Week 10/26 - 10/30

October 23, 2020 - October 31, 2020

October 26th through the 30th is Red Ribbon Week! Red Ribbon is the largest drug abuse prevention campaign in the nation. Let's join them in their mission to keep kids drug free.
 
Monday - "Grady's Kids Pledge to Be Drug Free" - hand out stickers and wear red
 
Tuesday - "Don't get Tied Up in Bad Choices" and School Picture Day - Wear a TIE today pledging to make good choices for a drug free lifestyle
 
Wednesday - "Turn your back on Drugs" - Wear your clothes backwards
 
Thursday - "Make Good Choices and Sock it to Drugs" - Wear CRAZY SOCKS today showing that you are not afraid to say "No" to drugs!
 
Friday - "I've got better things to do than drugs" - Wear your favorite sports team shirt or wear your storybook costume. 

Monday - "Grady's Kids Pledge to Be Drug Free" - hand out stickers and wear red

Tuesday - "Don't get Tied Up in Bad Choices" - Wear a TIE today pledging to make good choices for a drug free lifestyle. 

Wednesday - "Turn your back on Drugs" - Wear your clothes backwards

Thursday - "Make Good Choices and Sock it to Drugs" - Wear CRAZY SOCKS today showing that you are not afraid to say "No" to drugs!

Friday - "I've got better things to do than drugs" - Wear your favorite sports team shirt or wear your storybook costume. 

5th Grade Committee Meeting

October 7, 2020

The next 5th Grade Committee Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, October 20th.

The meeting is to be held virtually on ZOOM.

Meeting ID: 477 294 2480

Passcode: 5th Grade

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As part of our ongoing partnership with TGH/USF Health, we have created an informational video regarding Infection Prevention with COVID-19.

It is vital information that you may have heard before but these are steps we can take to protect ourselves and those around us.

Our local experts in the field of public health and infectious disease joined me, along with Chief of Staff Michael McAuley, to discuss:

  • Transmission of and the incubation period for COVID-19
  • Impact of COVID-19 on children
  • Strategies to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in our schools
  • What we can expect this fall and winter with flu season and COVID-19

I encourage you to take some time to watch the video at this link: https://youtu.be/9H4r1ksGZ64

The medical experts from Tampa General Hospital and USF Health, including Dr. Patricia Emmanuel, Chair, Department of Pediatrics and Dr. Claudia Espinoza, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, at USF, and Peggy Thompson, RN, Director of Infection Prevention at TGH, shared their insights as we continue to deal with the challenges of COVID-19 on our community.

Thank you to our friends at TGH/USF Health for providing guidance on the necessary steps we have implemented for a healthy, safe environment for everyone in our district.

Respectfully,

Addison G. Davis

Superintendent of Schools

Congratulations to Ms. Finitz, Mr. Florio and Ms. Richmond each of whom are being awarded for their commitment to excellence in education! 
 
- Ms. Sara Finitz, kindergarten teacher, has been named Grady Teacher of the Year
 
- Mr. Steven Florio, Music Specialist, has been named Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year
 
- Ms. Sandra Richmond, Principal's Secretary, has been named Non-Instructional Support Person of the Year.
 
We are so lucky to have these amazing teachers and staff supporting our school and students!

Grady PTA wins COVID-19 Relief Grant!!

August 28, 2020 - September 30, 2020

Grady PTA was awarded a COVID-19 Relief Fund Grant sponsored by TikTok. 
 
This grant will be used to make sure every student at the school has the materials they need to complete assignments and Be able to continue with art and science projects without sharing resources. The grant focuses in 3 areas:
 
1) Basic supplies for students in need. We have created 35 bags with basic supplies.  
 
2) Art materials for art projects and for Reflections Art Competition. (A Black Fine point sharpie and a set of watercolors will be available for all K-5th Grady students, distribution for eLearners TBD).
 
3) Science Kits (We are working on finalizing lists of supplies by grade level, for b&m and eLearners).
 

We need your photos for this year's Yearbook!!!

August 28, 2020 - October 31, 2020

The yearbook for the 2020-2021 school year will be made mostly with pictures of students shared by parents and teachers.
 
Please send 1-2 pictures of events to  [email protected]
 
Pictures of events we are looking for:
First day of school
Tiger Trek
Fall Festival activities 
Spirit week
Reflections art
Square1Art
 
Thank you, 
The Grady PTA 

COVID-19 Policies from our Superintendent

August 26, 2020 - September 30, 2020

For more information on the steps that will be taken for anyone who tests positive for COVID-19, and anyone who comes in contact with a person who tests positive for the virus. 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFOMATION

Para obtener más información sobre los pasos que se tomarán para cualquier persona que dé positivo en la prueba de COVID-19 y cualquier persona que entre en contacto con una persona que dé positivo en la prueba del virus.

HAGA CLIC AQUÍ PARA MÁS INFORMACIÓN

Instructions For Students With Medication/s

August 18, 2020 - August 31, 2020

Any students who will need to have medication at Grady should call the school and set an appointment with Ms. Rehmann, our school nurse. Ms. Rehmann will get all the necessary paperwork ready for you. Once all the paperwork is complete, call Ms. Rehmann again to schedule an appointment to drop off the medicine.

 

canvas

Dear Hillsborough County Public Schools Families, 

For the 2020-21 school year, we are excited to share that we will be moving to a new learning management platform called Canvas—a new hub of learning for our school district for all PreK-12th grade students, parents and educators. Over the next few weeks, we will be providing you with training material and videos so that you are prepared for the school year. 

Click here to view an important Canvas introductory video from Superintendent Addison G. Davis to get you started.

Canvas provides live (in-class instruction for teachers to use, once students are back inside classrooms) and virtual instruction options. This platform is user-friendly regardless of your learning style.  

We want to make sure the transition to Canvas is as smooth as possible; that is why we created a Hillsborough Canvas Family Guide where tips, resources and training will be updated periodically for our entire Hillsborough Schools Family to view.  To access this guide, visit the Families section of hillsboroughschools.org under Helpful Links, and click the Canvas Family Guide.  

Although student courses are not available yet, we encourage you to become familiar with this new platform. Once you have logged into Canvas you can access this guide any time by clicking the help icon. 

NOTE:  If you have already created a district MySPOT account to access Edsby or Online Report Cards, you do not have to create an account.  The current email address and password you use to login will automatically work for Canvas.

Fast Facts about Canvas: 

  • 95% of higher education institutions use Canvas—which helps prepare our students for life after high school.  
  • Through Canvas, parents can be observers, monitor student progress, see feedback from teachers, and see student assignments.  
  • Canvas also offers a free APP where grades and course content can be viewed. Students can submit assignments and keep track of course work with a to-do list and a calendar. Messages can be sent and received; discussions can be posted, and students and parents can receive push notifications for new grades and course updates—a great way to monitor student progress on the go.  
  • Canvas provides feedback to students on their work; teachers can leave comments directly on assignment pages. Teachers can also record a video to give details on assignments and encourage students, which builds a better connection between teacher and student during virtual learning. 

Teachers and staff are currently working on professional development training— include Canvas training, to enrich student instruction in a virtual environment.  

Thank you for your patience as we work together to create the tools needed for teachers and students to succeed. We look forward to providing you with this new hub of learning.  

Respectfully, 

Hillsborough County Public Schools


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Preview YouTube video Introducing Canvas in Hillsborough Schools

Grady Virtual Open House 8/19 !

August 12, 2020 - August 20, 2020

Grady Virtual Open House

Wednesday, August 19th

Zoom Meetings for every teacher or pair of teachers at both time slots:

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

5:30 Pm - 6:30 PM

Everyone will receive their teacher/s Zoom meeting ID and Password with their teacher assignment by mail in their Student Placement Packet. Instructional materials pick up will take place on August 20th and 21st. Times are still being finalized.

***If you have not received your teacher assignment, zoom meeting ID and password by end of business on August 17th; please call the school office on Tuesday, August 18th.*** 

Tiger Trek Tee Shirt - Sponsorship Deadline Sept. 11th

August 3, 2020 - September 11, 2020

One of the first events of the year is Tiger Trek!  This year it will be a little different as we are raising money as a school, meaning if we can raise $15,000 then every student and teacher will receive a Tiger Trek shirt!  Students who individually raise over $300 will be receiving a shirt in reverse colors to show their achievement.

Would you like your family or business represented on the back of the shirts?  Then sign up as a Family or Business Sponsor, Tiger Red (Bengal) or higher.  The deadline for having your name included as a sponsor on the back of the Tiger Trek shirt is September 11.  Please see the attached sponsorship form or visit https://www.gradytigers.org/tiger-partnership-program for more information.

 

Sponsorship Levels

  • Leader of the Pack $10,000
  • Tiger Silver $5,000
  • Tiger Bronze $2,500
  • Tiger Red $1,000
  • Tiger Yellow $500
  • Tiger Green $250

 

Thank you for your support!

Sincerely,
The Grady PTA

Still time to submit "Student Letter Of Intent"

July 27, 2020 - August 24, 2020

Dear Tiger Families,

 
I just wanted to give everyone a quick update on our return status to this point. Our student declaration of intent for Grady is as follows:
 
Response rate: 81%
 
Face to Face: 50%
eLearning: 28%
Virtual: 3%
No response: 19%
 
There is still time to submit your student declaration of intent. The intent can be found at https://intent2020.hcps.net/. If your child does not have a student number, please call the school and we will help you with your intent.
 
Due to the change in the start date for the 2020-2021 school year, Open House will be moved to a later date and held virtually. Student placements will also be sent out closer to the start of school. We will communicate the new Open House and student placement dates once they are established.
 
Thank you and stay safe!
 
Mike Campbell
Principal

First Day of School Pushed Back to August 24th

The School Board voted to approve the Superintendent’s recommendation that the first day of school for students be moved from August 10th until August 24th.

Teachers and staff will return to schools as planned on July 31st.

The School Board also approved a new student calendar to make up for missed classroom time due to pushing the school start day to August 24. You can find that revised calendar here.

The School Board also voted on a new bell schedule to ensure students have the required amount of time in their courses.

PTA School Supply Drive Extended

July 22, 2020 - August 13, 2020

We have added dates to our school supply drive. Supplies can now be donated  on July 30th, August 6th, & August 13th from 9:00 am - 2:00 pm at Grady Elementary. 
To limit contact and keep our families safe, there will be a box on the sidewalk where you can drop any donations. Drive through the car loop on Morrison Ave and the box will be right under the overhang at our school entrance. 
 
Our goal is to create 150 kits to provide to our students in need so that they can successfully complete all of their assignments whether in person or via eLearning. We also want additional cleaning supplies to ensure that we can keep our school as clean and safe as possible. 
 
REQUESTED ITEMS:
 

Uniforms:

School uniforms in good condition can be donated for our annual uniform swap. Details about the uniform swap will be provided in early August.

 

School Kits:

  • Pack of Dixon Ticonderoga # 2 pencils

  • Box of 8 pack Washable Markers

  • Plastic 3 prong pocket folders (blue, green, yellow, red)

  • Regular box of 24 crayons

  • Scissors

  • Wide ruled spiral notebook 1 subject

  • College ruled spiral notebook 1 subject

  • Pencil Pouch

  • Glue sticks

  • Erasers

 

Health and Safety:

  • Sanitizing Wipes (wipes must not contain bleach)
  • Hand Sanitizer (any brand)
  • Lysol disinfectant spray
  • Liquid hand soap
  • Face Masks (reusable or disposable)

 

Science Kits:

There is a wish list on amazon of items requested to make individual science kits

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1U2Y4X2VFW34P?ref_=wl_share


Due to Covid-19, our needs have significantly increased this year because there are more families having a hard time buying school supplies, larger quantities of items are needed to avoid students sharing supplies, more cleaning items are requested to supplement what the district is providing, and less funds are available from School Kit sales to purchase missing items. 

 

Thank you for supporting our school and students! We need your help more than ever during these unprecedented times. 

We can’t believe that the school year has already wrapped up. Thanks to all of our amazing teachers, staff, students and families that helped make this a wonderful year at Grady Elementary and did an incredible job transitioning to eLearning! Congratulations to all of our fifth graders and best of luck in middle school!

Don't forget to order your school supply box filled with the exact items requested by your child's teacher. Buy your school supplies early and avoid crowded stores and long waits for shipping this summer. Order online at www.shopttkits.com and enter account number 36155. Place your order by June 5, 2020.  

Thank you to Grady’s 2019-20 Business and Family Tiger Partners.  Grady PTA recognizes and gratefully appreciates each of the following Family and Business Tiger Partners:

Tiger Business Partners

Family Sponsors: 

  • Leader of the Pack level partner: Drs. Siviero & Heather Agazzi
  • Tiger Bronze partners: Melanie Edwards Fowler; The Gibbs Family; The House Family; and The Zysk Family
  • Red (Bengal) level partners: Angi Comas; The Christopher Family; The Du Family; The Fitzgerald Family; The Gomez Family; The Jacobs Family - Jennifer, Jeremy, Welles & Briggs; The Ledford Family; The Lueckeman Family; The Roush Family; and The Schentrup Family
  • Yellow (Cougar) level partners: John Paul and Rosemarie Getting; The Neward Family; Khue and NamSon Nguyen Family; and Ken Vu
  • Green (Cub) level partner: The Knittle Family

Thanks to the generous support of our sponsors and everyone who donated to our fundraisers, particularly Tiger Trek and our online Auction, we raised the funds to build our track in just one year!! We are very excited to start construction of our track at school!

A sincere thank you to all of our PTA Board Members and all of the volunteers that participated during the 2019-20 school year! We are extremely appreciative of your time and support!

Congratulations to our 2020-21 Executive Board! 

President - Norma Maiz
VP of Membership - Rachel Zysk
VP of Communication - Ivelise Revett
VP of Sponsorship - Kate Nelson
VP of Fundraising/Ways and Means - Kat Cowley
VP of Events - Jahaira Quintana
VP of Volunteer Relations - Brad Smith
VP of Special Projects - Jannine Neward
VP of Finance - Clarissa Medeiros
Treasurer - Heather Moniz
Secretary - Margarita Rivas
Corresponding Secretary - Kate Beauregard
 
We hope that you all have a safe, happy summer.

Please click on the links below for the 2020-2021 School Supply lists. If there are any changes due to coronavirus, we will share them.

For familes in need, the PTA is hosting a drive to provide basic school supplies. More information and who to contact is coming soon.

Below please find the schedule for the online End of Year Awards. Please note that the awards are by invitation only. Teachers will be reaching out to families to let them know if their child will receive an award. They will also be providing the Zoom link and password.

Please contact the fifth grade teachers with any questions regarding the fifth grade car line clap out. 

 

Tuesday, May 26
9:00 Brinson/Minardi
10:00 Kindergarten
11:00 1st Grade
12:00 2nd Grade

 
Wednesday, May 27
9:00 3rd Grade
10:00 4th Grade
11:00 5th Grade

 

Thursday, May 28
9:00 - 9:30 am - Fifth Grade Car Line Clap Out

 

Friday, May 29
9:00 - 2:00 pm - Student return of devices

Friday, May 22 – Grady will be collecting and returning student materials according to the schedule below. Families should drive through the front parking lot and remain in their cars. An employee will ask for the child’s name (if you have a car hang tag, please display) and will bring your child’s materials to the car. Families should return any library books, teacher books, or textbooks they may have at home. Laptops will NOT be collected at this time. Students with siblings will be able to pick up every child’s materials during the youngest child’s time. 


  • PreK and K:    9:00 – 9:45am

  • 1st Grade:     10:00 – 10:45am

  • 2nd Grade:     11:00 – 11:45am

  • 3rd Grade:     12:00 – 12:45pm

  • 4th Grade:    1:00 – 1:45pm

  • 5th Grade:    2:00 – 2:45pm

Welcome New Grady Tiger Families!

Below are the registration documents needed for the 2020-2021 school year. Please read the registration letter that applies to your family and follow the directions given. If you are unable to print or provide the files electronically, you may come to the school for a paper registration packet. Please call Grady Elementary at 813-872-5325 to set up a time to pick up the registration packet.  Once your packet is complete, contact Heather Tanski, our Data Processor, to set up a time to register your child. Contact info is provided below.


Email: [email protected]

Fax number: 813-356-1476

Phone number: 813-872-5325

 

To get a Student ID Number for registration, please fill out the form at the link below:

Student Declaration Of Intent

 

Registration Documents:

Registration In-County Letter

Registration Kindergarten and Out-of-County Letter

SER

Residency Form

Release of Records

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Teacher Appreciation Week

Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week is coming up next week, May 4-8th. Unfortunately, we won't be able to honor our teachers and staff in person as we normally would, but we still want to ensure that they feel our gratitude for everything they've done and continue to do for our students. 

Given the unprecedented nature of this year’s event, we are asking for some help from our Grady students and families. If your student would like to mail a card with personal words of appreciation or a gift card for the teachers/staff, you can send via email or mail a card directly to the school before May 7th as our teachers will be stopping by the school to clean out their classrooms next week. Please clearly mark the name of the teacher/staff member on the card to ensure it is routed to the correct person. Mail cards to Grady Elementary School, 3910 Morrison Ave, Tampa, FL 33629 (please do not personally drop off any cards or gifts at the school). You can also send egift cards via email, but we encourage you to confirm the email address and give your teacher/staff member a heads up so that the email does not get deleted or lost in junk mail. 

The PTA will provide our teachers and staff with a goodie bag on May 5th. The goodie bag will contain a coupon for a lunch at Wright's that can be picked up at their convenience, a Grady baseball hat, an Rtic tumbler with Grady logo, baseball cookies, crackerjacks, as well as a note of thanks for all they do in a drawstring backpack. 

Thank you for all of your support! 

We miss our Grady teachers and staff! Please click on the Grady Staff 2020 video to watch the very sweet video created by our Grady staff for our students and families. 
Don't miss the chance to buy this year's yearbook! The deadline to order online is this Thursday. Please visit www.strawbridge.net and enter code yb112045. We will provide instructions for picking up the yearbook in mid to late May.  
 

Tiger King Mike Exotic is no ordinary principal!!! Click here to watch the amazing video where he shows the future site of our new tiger habitat - a track!! Proceeds from the Grady PTA's Tiger King of Auctions will be used to provide educational opportunities for our students and help us build our track. We have already raised $60,000 toward our track and are only $10,000 away from our goal!

Bidding starts May 2nd at 6:00 pm, and closes on May 9th. Bidding will take place online via Qtego (https://qtego.net/qlink/gradytigers). Register now! 

Please note that registration requires you to enter a credit card, but you will not be charged unless you win an auction item on May 9th.  

Click on https://qtego.net/qlink/gradytigers to preview some of the items donated by our families, teachers, and community partners.

 
Centra Care is still open and taking every precaution to keep you safe and help you feel better, fast. In addition to following the guidelines set forth by the CDC, most prescriptions and over the counter medications are available onsite, so you can skip an extra trip to the pharmacy. Walk in, or make an online reservation at CentraCare.org. For additional details, please click on Centra Care


Below are some upcoming important dates
04/30 - Last Day to Order Yearbooks Online
05/02 - Grady Online Auction Starts at 6:00 pm
05/09 - Final day of Grady Online Auction and Virtual Party from 6:00 - 9:30 pm
05/25 - Memorial Day - No School
05/29 - Last Day of School
06/05 - Deadline to order School Supply Kits


PTA Awards

We are excited to announce that the Grady PTA won the following awards from the Hillsborough County Council PTA:

  • Golden Participation (for participation in county level meetings, trainings, conferences, and workshops)
  • Volunteer Hours (for logging volunteer hours of at least 2x the membership number)
  • Arts in Education (for Grady’s Doodad Sculpture Contest)
  • Health & Safety (for Grady’s Walk to School Wednesdays)

Congratulations to Grady’s individual nominees: Mr. Mike Campbell (Principal of the Year), Ms. Melissa Carl (Instructional Person of the Year), Ms. Heather Tanski (Non-instructional Person of the Year), and Mr. Brad Smith (Volunteer of the Year).  We are proud of you and how well you represent our school! 

Thank you to Ms. Grigsby and all of our volunteers that supported our PTA programs! 


School Supply Kits
This year we are again offering the Teacher Tailored supply kit program which offers pre-packed, school supply boxes filled with the exact items requested by your child's teacher. Supply orders include the exact colors, quantities, and brands your teachers have approved for class. Buy your school supplies early and avoid crowded stores and long waits for shipping this summer.

Order online at www.shopttkits.com and enter account number 36155. Place your order by June 5, 2020.

Box Tops
Don't forget to scan or clip your Box Tops. Remember to scan your receipts into the Box Top app and send a picture of your screenshot with the amount you have collected to Jena Ali at [email protected] to get credit. If you have digital receipts that you can't print and scan (such as from Instacart or store pickups), you can email your receipt to Receipts@boxtop4education.com from the email associated with your Box Tops account. Help us reach our Box Tops goal!

Important Resources for Families
Please click on the links to view:
Hillsborough County Public School Updates
Hillsborough County Public Schools Call Hotline in English
Linea Telefonicas Directas en Español
Hillsborough County Public Schools Family Resources
Grab-and-Go Food Locations - The Grab-and-Go program provides weekly food distribution on Wednesdays between 9 am and 1 pm. Please click on Grab-and-Go Update for more details.
Edsby Guide for Parents and Students

We are excited to announce that the Grady PTA won the following awards from the Hillsborough County Council PTA:

 

  • Golden Participation (for participation in county level meetings, trainings, conferences, and workshops)
  • Volunteer Hours (for logging volunteer hours of at least 2x the membership number)
  • Arts in Education (for Grady’s Doodad Sculpture Contest)
  • Health & Safety (for Grady’s Walk to School Wednesdays)

 

Congratulations to Grady’s individual nominees: Mr. Mike Campbell (Principal of the Year), Ms. Melissa Carl (Instructional Person of the Year), Ms. Heather Tanski (Non-instructional Person of the Year), and Mr. Brad Smith (Volunteer of the Year).  We are proud of you and how well you represent our school! 

Happy Earth Day! We hope all our families are staying safe and healthy. Thank you to all the families that participated in our virtual spirit week. It was great to see the photos and videos of our students on Facebook!

Make sure that you sign up on Qtego to participate in The Tiger King of Auctions. Bidding starts May 2nd at 6:00 pm and concludes on May 9th at 9:30 pm. Follow our PTA Facebook Page to participate in our online party on May 9th from 6:00 - 9:30 pm.

School Supply Kits for the 2020-21 school year are now available for sale. Skip the stress of back to school shopping and order online at www.shopttkits.com (account number 36155). Place your order by June 5, 2020 and your student's school supplies will be delivered directly to their classroom.

Please note an important change to the weekly Grab-and-Go meal program. Families will now be asked to provide your child’s name and student ID number (lunch number) to staff on site. If your child is under school age, or is in another school system, you must provide each child’s name and date of birth in order to receive food. We want to ensure all students who need a nutritious meal have access, so our district is implementing new technology to better track our meal distribution. This process may mean wait times to receive Grab-and-Go meals could be a little longer. You can help speed up the process by writing your student's information on a piece of paper with large print— and holding it up to the window.


Below are some upcoming important dates
04/30 - Last Day to Order Yearbooks Online
05/02 - Grady Online Auction Starts at 6:00 pm
05/09 - Final day of Grady Online Auction and Virtual Party from 6:00 - 10:00 pm
05/25 - Memorial Day - No School
05/29 - Last Day of School
06/05 - Deadline to order School Supply Kits


Grady Auction Update
Hey there all you cool cats and kittens! You are invited to The Tiger King of Auctions. Bidding starts May 2nd at 6:00 pm on Qtego. The Tiger King of Auctions closes on May 9th with an online Facebook party from 6:00 - 9:30 pm. Please make sure to like and follow our PTA Facebook Page to participate in the online party.

Click on Grady's Online Auction to preview some items that will be open to bid on May 2.  You must register through Qtego in order to preview and bid on these items. We know that these are challenging times and we are all in this together.  Proceeds from this auction will be used to provide educational opportunities for our students and help us build our track. We have already raised $60,000 towards our track and are only $10,000 away from our goal!

ASE Club Updates
Since school closures have been extended until May 1st, our remaining ASE clubs will be completed online. The majority of club vendors have already sent emails directly or via the ASE Coordinator with instructions for how to access the online clubs. Please note that the Basketball, Lacrosse, and Flag Football Clubs run by Protential Sports have requested an extension and will be sending emails this week. If you don't hear from the vendor or ASE Club Coordinator by April 24th, please email [email protected].  

Yearbook Sales Extended
The Yearbook has been submitted for proof and online yearbook sales have been extended to April 30th. Yearbooks are hardcover and cost $30.  Please visit www.strawbridge.net to purchase and enter online code yb112045.

School Supply Kits
This year we are again offering the Teacher Tailored supply kit program which offers pre-packed, school supply boxes filled with the exact items requested by your child's teacher. Supply orders include the exact colors, quantities, and brands your teachers have approved for class. So get your back-to-school shopping out of the way early.

Order online at www.shopttkits.com and enter account number 36155. Place your order by June 5, 2020.

Box Tops
Don't forget to scan or clip your Box Tops. Remember to scan your receipts into the Box Top app and send a picture of your screenshot with the amount you have collected to Jena Ali at [email protected] to get credit. If you have digital receipts that you can't print and scan (such as from Instacart or store pickups), you can email your receipt to [email protected] from the email associated with your Box Tops account. Help us reach our Box Tops goal!

Important Resources for Families
Please click on the links to view:
Hillsborough County Public School Updates
Hillsborough County Public Schools Call Hotline in English
Linea Telefonicas Directas en Español
Hillsborough County Public Schools Family Resources
Grab-and-Go Food Locations - The Grab-and-Go program provides weekly food distribution on Wednesdays between 9 am and 1 pm. Please click on Grab-and-Go Update for more details.
Edsby Guide for Parents and Students

hcpslogo

Dear Families,

We are making some important changes to the way your student will receive their week’s worth of Grab-and-Go meals on Wednesdays.

This Wednesday, families should be prepared with specific student information in order to receive the meals.

If your child is in our school district, you will be asked to provide your child’s name and student ID number to staff on site. This is the same number as your child's lunch number. You can also find your child’s student ID number on Edsby.

If your child is under school age, or is in another school system, you must provide each child’s name and date of birth in order to receive food.

We want to ensure all students who need a nutritious meal have access, so our district is implementing new technology to better track our meal distribution. 

This process may mean wait times to receive Grab-and-Go meals could be a little longer. You can help speed up the process by writing your student's information on a piece of paper with large print— and holding it up to the window.

Thank you for your patience as we continue to feed our students nutritious meals during this closure.

hcpslogo

Estamos haciendo algunos cambios en la forma en que su estudiante recibirá las comidas de Grab—and-Go los miércoles.

Este miércoles, las familias deben estar preparadas con información específica del estudiante para recibir las comidas. 

Si su hijo está en nuestro distrito escolar, debe estar preparado para dar su nombre y número de identificación de estudiante al personal de Nutrición Estudiantil al frente de la línea.

Si su hijo es menor de edad escolar, o va a una escuela charter o privada, debe dar el nombre y la fecha de nacimiento de cada niño para recibir alimentos.

Nuestro equipo de Servicios de Nutrición Estudiantil está utilizando tecnología que podrá detectar si un estudiante ya recibió una comida para el día.

Este proceso puede significar que los tiempos de espera para recibir comidas podrían llevar un poco más tiempo.

Gracias por su paciencia mientras continuamos alimentando a nuestros estudiantes con comidas nutritivas durante este cierre.

Dear Parents:

Great News! This year we are again offering the Teacher Tailored supply kit program which offers pre-packed, school supply boxes filled with the exact items requested by your child's teacher. Supply orders include the exact colors, quantities, and brands your teachers have approved for class. So get your back-to-school shopping out of the way early.

Simply place your order by June 5, 2020.

Order online at www.shopttkits.com.

Enter our school's account number 36155.

Questions? Contact Jamie Babb at [email protected].

hcpslogo

Dear families,

The governor has just directed all school districts in Florida to keep schools closed through the end of the school year due to concerns over the coronavirus.

We will follow this directive and continue eLearning through the end of the school year. You can find our district’s eLearning Contingency Plan at HillsboroughSchools.org/coronavirus/eLearning.

Additionally, ALL extracurricular activities will be cancelled during this timeframe including graduations. However, we have worked with select seniors, school-based leaders and district staff to develop multiple options for school graduations. We will communicate that in the coming days.

We know you have many questions about what this means for your student’s grades as well as activities and events planned during the fourth quarter. We will be providing you additional details in the coming days.

We will also continue to provide our weekly Grab-and-Go meal distributions on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. during this time.

The health and safety of our students, staff, and community members are our top priority.

Our district will continue to provide updates to make certain everyone is apprised of all next steps.

Thank you for your support and flexibility during this time.

hcpsnews

Queridas familias,

El estado acaba de ordenar a todos los distritos escolares de Florida que mantengan las escuelas cerradas hasta el final del año escolar debido a las preocupaciones sobre el coronavirus.

Seguiremos esta directiva y continuaremos con el aprendizaje electrónico hasta el final del año escolar. Puede encontrar el Plan de contingencia de eLearning de nuestro distrito en HillsboroughSchools.org/coronavirus/eLearning.

Además, TODAS las actividades extracurriculares se cancelarán durante este período, incluidas las graduaciones. Sin embargo, hemos trabajado con personas de la tercera edad, líderes escolares y personal del distrito para desarrollar múltiples opciones para las graduaciones escolares. Lo comunicaremos en los próximos días.

Sabemos que tiene muchas preguntas sobre lo que esto significa para las calificaciones de su estudiante, así como sobre las actividades y eventos planificados durante el cuarto trimestre. Le proporcionaremos detalles adicionales en los próximos días.

También continuaremos brindando nuestras distribuciones semanales de comidas para llevar los miércoles de 9 a.m. a 1 p.m. durante este tiempo.

La salud y la seguridad de nuestros estudiantes, personal y miembros de la comunidad son nuestra principal prioridad.

Nuestro distrito continuará proporcionando actualizaciones para asegurarse de que todos estén informados de todos los próximos pasos.

Gracias por tu apoyo.

Thank you to all of our families that have been posting photos and videos on our Grady Elementary PTA Facebook Page. We've enjoyed seeing our students! Today is our Workout Wednesday, so share photos of your students biking, wheeling, walking or exercising in the event discussion. Please note that the Grady PTA Facebook page is a public page and any photos or comments will be public.

Please note that the Grab-and-Go program has been changed to weekly food distribution. Beginning April 15th, students will be provided with one week's worth of food at a time. Pickup will be on Wednesdays between 9 am and 1 pm. Please click on Grab-and-Go Update for more details.   

Congratulations to our 5 Grady students that were named winners of the Doodad Shoe Sculpture Contest! 

  • K-2 - Olivia Rivas-Medeiros - 2nd Place
  • K-2 - Gustavo Rivas-Medeiros - 3rd Place  
  • K-2 - Mackenzie Currea - People's Choice
  • 3-5 - Milania Capo - People's Choice
  • 3-5 - Amina Devoe - People's Choice
The sculptures continue to be on display at Tampa International Airport. Given the current situation, the best way to see the sculptures in the Exhibit is on the Doodad website. http://doodadoftampa.org/2020-competition/  

Below are some upcoming important dates
04/15 - Spirit Week - Workout Wednesday
04/16 - Spirit Week - Throwback Thursday
04/17 - Spirit Week - Fun Friday
04/20 - Non Student Day   
04/30 - Last Day to Order Yearbooks Online
05/02 - Grady Online Auction Starts at 6:00 pm
05/09 - Final day of Grady Online Auction and Virtual Party from 6:00 - 10:00 pm
 
Grady Auction Update 
Hey there all you cool cats and kittens! Join us for The Tiger King of Auctions online from May 2nd - May 9th. Wear your best Tiger attire for our online party on May 9th from 6:00 - 10:00 pm. We will send full details about the auction and how to register on Friday. 
 
ASE Club Updates
Since school closures have been extended until May 1st, our remaining ASE clubs will be completed online. The majority of club vendors have already sent emails directly or via the ASE Coordinator with instructions for how to access the online clubs. Please note that Basketball, Lacrosse, and Flag Football Clubs run by Protential Sports have requested an extension and will be sending emails early the week of April 20th. If you don't hear from the vendor or ASE Club Coordinator by April 24th, please email connection@gradytigers.org 
 
Yearbook Sales Extended
The Yearbook has been submitted for proof and online yearbook sales have been extended to April 30th. Yearbooks are hardcover and cost $30.  Please visit www.strawbridge.net to purchase and enter online code yb112045. 
 
Box Tops
Don't forget to scan or clip your Box TopsRemember to scan your receipts into the Box Top app and send a picture of your screenshot with the amount you have collected to Jena Ali at [email protected] to get credit. If you have digital receipts that you can't print and scan (such as from Instacart or store pickups), you can email your receipt to Receipts@boxtop4education.com from the email account associated with your Box Tops account. Help us reach our Box Tops goal! 
Important Resources for Families
Please click on the links to view:
Grab-and-Go Food Locations - Please note that the Grab-and-Go program has been changed to weekly food distribution on Wednesdays between 9 am and 1 pm. Please click on Grab-and-Go Update for more details. 

Grab-and-Go Update

April 14, 2020

hcpslogo

Dear Families,

This is a reminder that, beginning tomorrow, our district will be distributing food one day per week, providing students with one week’s worth of food at a time.

Due to new CDC guidelines and a statewide stay-at-home order, our district wants to minimize contact between Student Nutrition Services workers and our families.

Families will be able to pick up a week's worth of nutritious meals every Wednesday at the same 147 sites-- between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. This will include one pound of lunch meat, a loaf of bread, milk, juice and nutritious snacks. Students will receive enough food for each school day. Buses will also be transporting foods into specific neighborhoods for pick up every Wednesday.

It's important to note that these food bags will weigh over ten pounds together. If you are walking up or riding a bike to a Grab-and-Go site, please have your child bring their empty backpack to provide a simple way to transport the food.

For a list of frequently asked questions, please visit HillsboroughSchools.org. Thank you for your cooperation as we continue to keep our community safe while making sure our children have food during this closure.

Thank you

hcpslogo

Familias,

Este es un recordatorio de que, a partir de mañana, nuestro distrito distribuirá alimentos un día por semana, proporcionando a los estudiantes las comidas de toda la semana en un día.

Debido a las nuevas pautas de los CDC y una orden de estadía en el hogar en todo el estado, nuestro distrito quiere minimizar el contacto entre los trabajadores de Servicios de Nutrición Estudiantil y nuestras familias.

Las familias podrán recoger las comidas nutritivas de toda la semana los miércoles en los mismos 147 sitios- entre las 9 a.m. y la 1 p.m. Esto incluirá una libra de embutidos, una hogaza de pan, leche, jugo y refrigerios nutritivos. Los estudiantes recibirán suficiente comida para cada día escolar. Los autobuses también transportarán alimentos a diferentes vecindarios para que los recojan todos los miércoles.

 Los estudiantes recibirán suficiente comida para cada día escolar. Los autobuses también transportarán alimentos a diferentes vecindarios para que los recojan todos los miércoles.

Es importante tener en cuenta que estas bolsas de comida pesarán juntas más de diez libras. Si va caminando o en bicicleta a un sitio de Grab-and-Go, asegurase de que su hijo traiga su mochila vacía como una forma sencilla de transportar la comida.

Para obtener una lista de preguntas frecuentes, visite HillsboroughSchools.org. Gracias por su cooperación mientras continuamos protegiendo nuestra comunidad y asegurándonos de que nuestros estudiantes tengan comida durante este cierre.

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Dear Families,

Beginning this Wednesday, April 15th, our district will be distributing food one day per week-- providing students one week's worth of food at a time, instead of daily distribution.

Due to new CDC guidelines and a statewide stay-at-home order, our district wants to minimize contact between Student Nutrition Services workers and our families. We believe one-day-a-week food distribution will be safer for the community as a whole. 

Families will be able to pick up a week's worth of nutritious meals every Wednesday at the same 147 sites-- between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. This will include one pound of lunch meat, a loaf of bread, milk, juice and nutritious snacks. Students will receive enough food for each school day. Buses will also be transporting foods into specific neighborhoods for pick up every Wednesday.

Each student will receive a bag of food that needs to be refrigerated, and one that can stay at room temperature. It's important to note that these food bags will weigh over ten pounds together. If you are walking up or riding a bike to a Grab-and-Go site, please have your child bring their empty backpack to provide a simple way to transport the food.

Please note-- we will be feeding students this Monday April 13th,  and Tuesday, April 14th at Grab-and-Go sites- to make sure students have nutritious meals before the new schedule starts this Wednesday. For a list of frequently asked questions, please visit HillsboroughSchools.org.

Thank you for your cooperation as we continue to keep our community safe while making sure our children have food during this closure.

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Este es un mensaje importante de las escuelas de Hillsborough con respecto a un cambio en nuestro proceso de comida para llevar.  A partir de este miércoles, 15 de abril, nuestro distrito distribuirá los alimentos un día por semana – proporcionando a los estudiantes las comidas de toda la semana en un día, en lugar de una distribución diaria.                                                      

Debido a las nuevas pautas del Centro de Control de Enfermedades (CDC), y la orden estatal de quedarse en casa, nuestro distrito desea minimizar el contacto entre los trabajadores del Servicio de Nutrición Escolar y nuestras familias.  Creemos que la distribución de alimentos un día a la semana, será más seguro para la comunidad en general.  

Los miércoles, las familias podrán recoger los alimentos nutritivos de toda una semana, en los mismos 147 sitios de distribución – entre las 9:00 a.m. y la 1:00 p.m.  Esto incluirá una libra embutidos, una hogaza de pan, leche, jugo y refrigerios nutritivos.  Los estudiantes recibirán suficiente comida para cada día escolar.  Cada miércoles, los autobuses también transportarán los alimentos a vecindarios específicos para su distribución. 

Cada estudiante recibirá una bolsa de alimentos que necesitará ser refrigerado, y una que puede permanecer a temperatura ambiente.  Es importante tener en cuenta, que estas dos bolsas juntas de comida pesarán 10 libras.  Si camina o monta su bicicleta a los sitios de distribución de comidas para llevar, por favor asegúrese de que su hijo traiga su mochila vacía como un modo sencillo para transportar los alimentos. 

Por favor, tome en cuenta ---estaremos alimentando a los estudiantes este lunes y martes, 13 y 14 de abril, en los sitios de distribución de comidas para llevar – para asegurarnos de que los estudiantes tengan sus alimentos nutritivos antes de que comience el nuevo horario de distribución el miércoles.  Para una lista de preguntas frecuentes, por favor visite HillsboroughSchools.org.  Gracias por su cooperación mientras continuamos protegiendo nuestra comunidad y asegurándonos de que nuestros estudiantes tengan alimentos durante este cierre.

We have some exciting news - in order to make it easier for our families to stay connected while eLearning, we have created a Grady Elementary PTA Facebook Page. Please like and follow our page to view important reminders, auction information, and fun photos or videos from our virtual spirit week.  Our virtual spirit week runs from Monday, April 13th through Friday, April 17th.   Click on Grady Spirit Week to view the theme for each day. When you visit our Grady PTA Facebook Page, we will have an event for that day's theme and you can post related photos or videos of your family participating in the comments of the event. 

Important Resources for Families
Please click on the links to view:
Grab-and-Go Food Locations - These are for any children under 18 years old, not just students qualifying for free or reduced lunch. Please note that the closest locations to Grady Elementary are at Coleman Middle School and Plant High School. 
Below are some upcoming important dates
04/10 - Non Student Day 
04/13 - Spirit Week - Grady Spirit Day
04/14 - Spirit Week - Talent Tuesday
04/15 - Spirit Week - Workout Wednesday
04/16 - Spirit Week - Throwback Thursday
04/17 - Spirit Week - Fun Friday
04/20 - Non Student Day   
04/30 - Last Day to Order Yearbooks Online
05/02 - Grady Online Auction Starts
05/09 - Final day of Grady Online Auction & Live Auction
   
 
Grady Auction Update 
Hey there all you cool cats and kittens! Join us for The Tiger King of Auctions online from May 2nd - May 9th. We will be sharing details on how to participate in our online auction and how to sign up through Qtego via email and our Grady Elementary PTA Facebook page. 
 
Our 2021 Auction will be The Grady Gatsby themed, so save your Roaring 20's apparel for one more year. 
 
ASE Club Updates
Since school closures have been extended until May 1st, our remaining ASE clubs will be completed online. All parents should receive an email from their club vendor with instructions for how to access the online clubs by the end of the week. If you don't hear from the vendor or ASE Club Coordinator by April 9th, please email [email protected] 
 
Yearbook Sales Extended
The Yearbook has been submitted for proof and online yearbook sales have been extended to April 30th. Yearbooks are hardcover and cost $30.  Please visit www.strawbridge.net to purchase and enter online code yb112045. 
 
Box Tops
Don't forget to scan or clip your Box Tops as we are likely purchasing more groceries since we are spending extra time at home. Remember to scan your receipts into the Box Top app and send a picture of your screenshot with the amount you have collected to Jena Ali at [email protected] to get credit. We are less than $400 away from our goal. Let's beat our goal!!

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Dear Families,

The state has just directed all school districts in Florida to keep schools closed through May 1st due to concerns over the coronavirus.

In order to comply with that directive, the following facts will be in effect immediately:

  • All Hillsborough County Public Schools will be closed, including traditional and charter, through May 1st;

 

  • ALL extracurricular activities will be cancelled during this time;

 

  • We will continue online eLearning during this time. You can find our district’s eLearning Plan on our website, HillsboroughSchools.org/coronavirus;

 

  • We will continue providing our students nutritious meals, Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at 147 sites. You can find those sites on our website, HillsboroughSchools.org.

 

We understand this is a challenge for families. But the threat of this virus is very real, and we must take major steps to keep it from overwhelming our healthcare system.

As you know, the health and safety of our students, staff, and community members are our top priority. Our district will continue to provide updates to make certain everyone is apprised of all next steps. You can always visit HillsboroughSchools.org/coronavirus for the latest information.

I appreciate your understanding and flexibility during this time.

Addison Davis

Superintendent of Schools        

  

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Familias,

El estado acaba de ordenar a todos los distritos escolares de Florida que mantengan las escuelas cerradas hasta el primero de mayo debido a las preocupaciones sobre el coronavirus.

Para cumplir con esa directiva, los siguientes hechos entrarán en vigencia de inmediato:

  • Todas las escuelas públicas del condado de Hillsborough estarán cerradas, incluidas las tradicionales y las chárter, hasta el primero de Mayo.
  • TODAS las actividades extracurriculares se cancelarán durante este período de tiempo;
  • Continuaremos brindando a nuestros estudiantes comidas nutritivas, de lunes a viernes de 9 a.m. a 1 p.m. en 147 sitios. Puede encontrar esos sitios en nuestro sitio web, HillsboroughSchools.org.

Entendemos que esto es un desafío para las familias. Pero la amenaza de este virus es muy real, y debemos tomar medidas importantes para evitar que abrume nuestro sistema de salud.

Como saben, la salud y la seguridad de nuestros estudiantes, personal y miembros de la comunidad son nuestra principal prioridad.

Nuestro distrito continuará proporcionando actualizaciones para asegurarse de que todos estén informados de todos los próximos pasos.

Siempre puede visitar HillsboroughSchools.org/coronavirus para obtener la información más reciente.

Agradezco su comprensión y flexibilidad durante este tiempo.

Addison Davis

Superintendente de Escuelas

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El Departamento de Educación de Florida acaba de proporcionar la directiva para que todos los distritos escolares de Florida cierren las escuelas durante las próximas dos semanas debido a las preocupaciones sobre el coronavirus.

Mientras que estamos actualmente en las vacaciones de primavera (Spring Break) para la semana del 16 al 20 de marzo, esto significa que extenderemos nuestro cierre hasta el 27 de marzo. Nuestro plan de acción es reabrir las escuelas a partir del lunes 30 de marzo.

Para cumplir con la directiva del Departamento de Educación, los siguientes hechos entrarán en vigencia de inmediato:

 

  • Todas las Escuelas Públicas del Condado de Hillsborough estarán cerradas, incluyendo las escuelas tradicionales y las chárter, durante las próximas dos semanas; 
  • TODAS las actividades extracurriculares se cancelarán durante este período de tiempo;
  • Durante la semana del 23 de marzo, todos los estudiantes tendrán acceso a actividades educativas a través de nuestro Plan de contingencia de educación en linea (eLearning) para garantizar instrucción educativa;
  • Durante las próximas dos semanas, todas las escuelas recibirán una limpieza profunda para garantizar un ambiente seguro
  • Además, el estado retrasará el inicio de todas las pruebas de FSA y EOC por al menos dos semanas.

 

Además, el estado retrasará el inicio de todas las pruebas de FSA y EOC por al menos dos semanas.

Como saben, la salud y la seguridad de nuestros estudiantes, personal y miembros de la comunidad son nuestra principal prioridad. En los próximos días, continuaré proporcionando actualizaciones para asegurarme de que todos estén informados de todos los próximos pasos.

Aprecio su comprensión y compromiso con nuestros estudiantes y espero que cada uno de ustedes tenga unas vacaciones de primavera (Spring Break) relajantes.

 

Addison Davis

Superintendent of Schools          

Please see below for the Coronavirus Preparation Update provided by Hillsborough County Public Schools on March 3rd. Grady Elementary will be taking directives from the district. The most up to date information will be found on our district website at HillsboroughSchools.org.  

Here are some preventative steps you can take to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases like COVID-19 according to the CDC: 

           • Avoid close contact with people who are sick. 
           • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
           • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available. 
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. 
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.  
• Stay home when you are sick.   
To view the CDC form in English, click here. Para Español, haga clic aquí
 

What can you do to help Grady?

           • Donate Lysol wipes, hand sanitizer, and tissues. You can drop them off at the front office.   
 
Please note that the district will be installing hand sanitizer dispensers on school buses, at the school's main entrance, and in the cafeteria in the coming days. In addition, the district will be providing disinfecting wipes for teachers to use in their classrooms, but it may take time for them to deliver to schools because of the large quantities required and current product shortages. Grady has hand sanitizer in our office and classrooms and the PTA purchased 38 containers of 110 Lysol wipes for our teachers to use in the meantime, but we appreciate any donations as they are not readily available in stores.  

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Coronavirus Preparation Update – March 3, 2020

We know you have questions about coronavirus/COVID-19 and how it may affect our schools and community. Our school district has been in constant contact with the experts at the Florida Department of Health.

Coronavirus is spread just like the flu, through droplets from sneezing or coughing. It can lead to a respiratory illness (an illness that affects breathing and involves the lungs) called COVID-19. If you have specific questions about you or your family’s health, contact your health care provider.

Current situation

1) We are operating our schools as usual, with normal hours. We are taking proactive steps for the health and well-being of our students and staff—frequently cleaning our classrooms and common areas. We are also installing more hand sanitizer dispensers in our schools. At this time, based on guidance from the Florida Department of Health, there is no reason to be scared—just be smart about prevention.

2) It is important to talk with your family about using good hygiene—this stops the spread of most illnesses. Follow the prevention steps here, especially:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds
  • Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth without washing your hands first
  • Cough or sneeze into your elbow or sleeve—not your hand

3) Stay home if you are sick. This helps stop the spread of any illness, including a cold or flu, and lets you rest and recover. If you have the symptoms of COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus—fever, cough and shortness of breath—call your regular doctor and don’t go to school or work.

Absences due to illness

We always encourage our parents to keep their children home if they are sick. If a student stays home from school due to illness, and the student’s parent or guardian reports the reason for the absence to the school, the absence is excused under our district’s Attendance Policy.

For excused absences, students can make up the work they missed and can work with their teachers for missed assignments and tests. 

We are working with our teachers to ensure teachers who use Edsby are posting assignments there whenever possible and all teachers are making arrangements for make-up work. 

Spring Break and travel

With Spring Break coming, you may be asking yourself—should I travel? The CDC’s Coronavirus Information for Travelers webpage has the latest information. This is important: There are specific areas around the world and in the U.S. with high numbers of coronavirus cases. If you travel to a place where coronavirus transmission is happening and then you develop symptoms, you will be isolated by the Florida Department of Health for at least two weeks and you will put your family, friends and others at risk.

Hand sanitizer in schools and buses

We have ordered hand sanitizer dispensers to install on school buses and at the main entrances and cafeterias of all district-operated schools. We will be installing them as we receive them over the coming days. We are also looking to purchase disinfecting wipes that teachers can use as needed in their classroom. Because of the large numbers involved—235 schools with 12,000 classrooms—we have to find suppliers who have the large quantities we need and then have them shipped here, so this may take time.

Updates

We will continue to share regular updates via email and on our district website at HillsboroughSchools.org

March 6, 2020 Update 

Grady Elementary School Book Fair

March 9th - 13th

Grady Elementary School’s Spring Book Fair is next week, and we need more volunteers to make the event a success! Volunteers help children make their choices while they shop and ensure the process runs smoothly. Please take a moment to sign up here: https://volunteer.scholastic.com/#/signup/834NSzDgy
 
The event runs from March 9th-13th and is located in the Kathryn Hance Media Center from 7:20 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. daily. There will be family nights on Wednesday (March 11th) and Thursday (March 12th) for parents to shop from 4:00-7:30 p.m. 
 

To view the interactive Book Fair Flyer: Click Here

Consider using the new eWallet feature in lieu of sending kids with cash. For more information, please click on eWallet. If you plan on sending cash, it is recommended to place cash in an envelope with students names for younger children. Keep in mind that there is an 8.5% sales tax added to all items. 

If you are unable to shop in person, click on Shop Online to access our online book fair. 

If you have any questions, please contact our Media Specialist, Mr. Tsourakis,  at [email protected].fl.us

South Tampa Basketball Camp
Summer Registration Info.

Where: Held at Grady Elementary School  - 3910 W. Morrison Ave. Tampa 33629 

When: Week 1: June 8th-11th

           Week 2: June 15th-18th

           Week 3: June 22nd-25th

Times: Monday-Thursday 8:30-12:00 (V.I.P Child Care is available to pickup at Grady at Noon and take to daycare if needed.) Please call Coach Harris for details.

Grades: 1st-10th Boys & Girls

Coaches: All Certified Teachers/Coaches in Hillsborough County with many years of experience.

Pricing: One week purchase=$115

             Two week purchase=$110 (per week)

             Three week purchase=$105 (per week)

Military Discount: -$10 off total purchase.

Please visit us at www.southtampabasketball.com for details, forms to fill out, and address to send forms and payment or call Coach Harris at (813) 928-4673. 

EARLY REGISTRATION APRIL 1ST=$10 OFF
(ONLY ONE DISCOUNT PER FAMILY)
DEADLINE TO REGISTER IS MAY 8th TO SECURE A T-SHIRT

2020 Art Summer Camp Series is now open for registration!

Registration is now open for our 2020 Grady Summer Art Camps. Please visit www.gradyartcamp.com to get more details. Space is limited as we fill up each year. Our themed art camps focus on the exploration of art material through hands-on guided learning, interactive art play and skill development. Our summer art camps are a place where children feel comfortable expressing their creativity while meeting like-minded kids. You can also call 813-544-5140 to get camp information.
 
(3) Camp Week Dates:
June 8 - June 11th, June 15 -18th, June 22 -25th


Camp Times: 8am -12pm or 12:30pm -4:30pm (Both half and full day camps available: Sign up for both the morning and afternoon sessions to have your child participate as a full day camper)

Camp Price: $129 per camper per session. $25 non refundable deposit to hold spot

Camper Ages: Pre K-5th grade (Current 2019-2020 school year)

Camp Location: Grady Elementary, 3910 W Morrison Ave, Tampa, FL 33629

Number of Campers: Only 20 campers per class (Camp will feature 2 different classrooms)

Please visit 
www.gradyartcamp.com to get registered with only a $25 camp deposit.
You can also call 
813-544-5140 to get camp information. Space is limited as we fill up each year.
 

Ready for Kindergarten 02/19

February 11, 2020

If you have an incoming Kindergarten student, please join us for Grady Elementary's Ready for Kindergarten event on February 19th! Come and learn important information about our school, the kindergarten program and how to help your child make a smooth transition.  You will also have the opportunity to register your child for kindergarten (requirements below). Children are allowed to attend. 
 
Event Details: 
February 19, 2020 -  8:15 am -9:15 am
 
Grady Elementary School
Katherine Kay Hance Media Center
3910 Morrison Ave. Tampa, FL 33629
 
Registration Requirements:
Child must be 5 on or before September 1, 2020
Original Birth Certificate
Social Security Card (if available)
Current Physical and Shot Record
2 Proofs of Address - Current Electric Bill, Lease Agreement, Warranty Deed, 
Tax Receipt, Homestead Exemption or Contract for Purchase of Home
Entries for the Doodad Sculpture Contest are due next week! The deadline for submission is Monday, February 10th for K-2nd graders and Wednesday, February 12th for 3-5th graders. 
Mrs. Grigsby has given demonstrations about this project in class. There are shoe templates on the front office counter for interested students/parents to pick up. All students must include an artist statement briefly explaining their art along with their names, name of the homeroom teacher and their grade on a separate piece of paper.
 
There will be school-level awards given out to 1st, 2nd, 3rd and Honorable Mention winners for each grade level. We will also be hosting a party celebrating all school-level winners. 
 
For more details and contest guidelines, please click on Doodad Sculpture Contest or email Debonique.Grigsby@sdhc.k12.fl.us with any questions.  
This is the final week to turn in submissions for the Student Literacy and Media (SLAM) showcase, a district K-12 event celebrating reading. All students are invited to make two-dimensional art projects or short video book trailers about books in the special reading list. Submissions are due on Monday, February 10th. Top entries will be announced on February 24, 2020 and will be taken to the district Showcase at the Tampa Convention Center on March 24, 2020. At the event, those student creators will experience projects from all the schools and see award-winning authors and storytellers.
 
Our Media Specialist, Mr. Tsourakis, is available after school this week to consult with students but will need a written note from parents stating that they have given permission and will be able to pick up their student at 3:10, along with a contact number. 
 
For more information, please click here  or contact Mr. Tsourakis, at [email protected].us
SLAM Showcase:
DIstrict level video book trailers:

Tiger Talk Update 01.30.20

January 30, 2020

We have many upcoming events that require volunteers and we would be appreciative for any help that you are able to provide.

Here are the detailed events:

  • Assisting Mr. Tsourakis in the media center (ongoing) - Click on Media Center Volunteers to sign up for a 2 hour shift. Please note that dates are organized by days of the week (ie. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays). Currently, no extra help is needed on Mondays, but might be in the future.  
  • Walk to School Wednesday on February 5th from 6:55 - 7:40 am - Please click on Walk to School Wednesday to sign up. 
  • Set up chairs for the Pre-K and Kindergarten Valentine's Concert on February 12th - Volunteers are needed from 2:15 - 3:15 pm. We appreciate any time you can spare, even if you are not able to stay for the entire hour. Please click on Chair setup to sign up. 
  • Jump Rope for Heart on Friday, February 14th - Volunteers are needed to help monitor stations, hand out water, turn jump ropes and more. If you are interested in volunteering, please click on Jump Rope for Heart. You are encouraged to choose the times your child(ren) will be participating.
     
    Below are some upcoming important dates: 
    • 02/02 - Community Cleanup for 5th Grade Students at Coleman Track at 9:00 am     
    • 02/03 - Community Cleanup - Meet at Park & Walk at 12:55 pm    
    • 02/05 - Walk to School Wednesday from 7:00 - 7:35 am   
    • 02/06 - Last day to submit entries for the SLAM Showcase  
    • 02/07 - Fair Day - NO SCHOOL  
    • 02/10 - K-2nd Sculptures due for Doodad Sculpture Contest  
    • 02/12 - 3rd-5th grade Sculptures due for Doodad Sculpture Contest
    • 02/13 - Pre-K and Kindergarten Valentine's Concert at 8:15 am
    • 02/14 - Jump Rope for Heart and Field Day 
    • 02/17 - President's Day - NO SCHOOL  
    • 02/19 - Ready for Kindergarten event for incoming kindergarteners at 8:15 am      
    • 02/28 - Family Skate Night at United Skates of America at 6:00 pm 
    • 03/11 - Spring Concert for 1st and 2nd Grade Students at 6:00 pm  
    • 03/12 - Spring Concert for 3rd - 5th Grade Chorus at 6:00 pm  
    • 04/18 - Grady's Auction Night 

     

    Community Cleanup Opportunities

    • All Grady Students - Please help us clean the Baseball/Softball areas next to Park & Walk every Monday at 12:55 pm, right after school. Bring an adult and check in with Wendy De la Garza at the Park & Walk gate. Please bring tongs/grabbers to help pick up trash from the surrounding area. The PTA will have a few extras your students can use.
    • Grady 5th Graders - Please help us keep the Coleman Middle School track and surrounding area clean of trash. ?? ??This is a great environmental project and it serves our learning community. Bring your parent and a pair of gloves to any or all of the Sunday morning meet-ups at 9:00 am at the track entrance on W. Neptune St.  Please wear your Grady spirit shirts. 

     
    SLAM Showcase
     
    The Student Literacy and Media (SLAM) showcase is in full swing at Grady Elementary! This is a district K-12 event celebrating reading. All students are invited to make two-dimensional art projects or short video book trailers about books in the special reading list. There will be awards given and winners will proceed to a county level showcase. Submissions must be sent in by February 7th. For more information about the SLAM Showcase and the official rules, please click here  or contact our Media Specialist, Mr. Tsourakis, at [email protected].us.  
     
    Doodad Sculpture Contest Important Dates and Details
    (K-2nd):  Due Monday, February 10th
    (3rd-5th):  Due Wednesday, February 12th
    Location: Media Center

    Details to include:
    • Student(s) Name(s)
    • Homeroom Teacher
    • 3-5 Sentence Artist Statement about their sculpture on a separate sheet of paper
    • Must include at least 1 snack wrapper and 1 plastic shopping bag somewhere in the sculpture
    • Must not be any larger than 3'X3'
    • Group projects must have students that are all within the grade level brackets above for judging purposes
    Judging Criteria:
    1. Use of Materials
    2. Creativity
    3. Followed Instructions and Guidelines
    4. Aesthetics (Neatness, Durability, etc.)
     
    For more details and contest guidelines, please click on Doodad Sculpture Contest or email Debonique.Grigsby@sdhc.k12.fl.us with any questions.  
     
    5th Grade Parents
     
    The deadline to purchase ads for your 5th grader is February 22, 2020. To create your ad, click on Create 5th Grade Yearbook Ad. For pricing and details on the process, please click here  
    Save the date for Coleman Middle School's Incoming 6th Grade Parent Meeting on May 5th from 6:00 - 7:00 pm in the Coleman cafeteria. They will do a quick "Day in the Life of a 6th Grader" and then a Q&A. 
    Yearbooks
     
    We need your help to complete our Yearbook! You don't need to come to Grady Elementary to help create our Yearbook - there is flexibility to create pages and upload photos from home or the office.Please email [email protected] if you are interested in helping. 
     
    Yearbook sales are open online! Please visit www.strawbridge.net to purchase and enter online code yb112045. Yearbooks are all hardcover this year and cost $25 if purchased before March 1, 2020.  On March 1st, prices will rise to $30. Yearbook signing day is May 22nd, so make sure to purchase your Yearbooks early to ensure that your student has for signing day! 
     
    We will be sending paper forms home if you prefer to pay via cash or check. Please note that cash and checks will only be accepted in January and February. 
     
    If you have pictures that you would like included in the yearbook and the website, please email them to [email protected].
     
     

    Box Tops

     
    Keep collecting Box Tops! For every 5 Box Tops submitted, students will obtain 1 entry into the monthly drawing. Submit Box Tops by March 15th for the chance to win a Barnes and Noble Goody Bag! The top class will also win a Pizza Party! For more information, please click Grady Box Tops. 
     
    You can submit Box Tops 3 ways: 
    1. Through the Box Top$ for Education app. Send a screenshot of your current uploaded box top amounts in your app to [email protected] to be eligible for prizes. 
    2. Clip Box Tops and turn in on the form sent home or in a Ziploc Bag. Make sure to include your child's name and teacher on the form/ziploc bag. Please insure that you are sending unexpired Box Tops and not the "Skip the Clip" logos. Items with the "Skip the Clip" logo should be submitted through the Box Top$ for Education App. 
    3. Send unscanned receipts to your teacher with your child's name written on the back. Please note, receipts must be scanned in within 14 days. 
     
    PTA Meetings
     
    The next PTA meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 11th from 8:00 - 9:00 am in the Teachers' Lounge. The meeting is open to anyone interested in learning more about the PTA and upcoming events. If you cannot attend and would like to review the prior meeting minutes, please visit PTA Board Meetings. We have also listed some of the programs that 2019-2020 PTA Fundraisers will help fund. 
     
     
    PTA Membership
     
    Who can join? ANYONE. You can add your neighbor, parents, grandparents, anyone in the community. 
    How much does it cost? $6 for one person, $10 for two.
    Where can we become members? Online at: https://gradypta.memberhub.store/
    High membership participation provides PTA with strength in numbers when advocating for our students and also allows us to participate in PTA programs such as Reflections Art. Our PTA also receives awards for membership and programs PTA offers.
     
     
    Tiger Business and Family Partners
     
    Thank you to all of our Tiger partners! Our Tiger partners greatly assist us in enhancing educational opportunities and experiences for Grady students in four main areas: make a difference in our classrooms by funding programs; deliver PTA events to our students, teachers, and families; support Grady school events by providing volunteers and/or covering expenses; and enhance Grady Elementary through health and safety projects. To learn more about Tiger Family and Business Partnerships, please click hereTiger Partnership Program. 
     
    Our 2019-20 Tiger Business Partners are

    Our 2019-20 Family Sponsors are

    • Leader of the Pack level partner: Drs. Siviero & Heather Agazzi
    • Tiger Bronze partners: Melanie Edwards Fowler; The Gibbs Family; The House Family; and The Zysk Family
    • Red (Bengal) level partners: Angi Comas; The Christopher Family; The Du Family; The Fitzgerald Family; The Gomez Family; The Jacobs Family - Jennifer, Jeremy, Welles & Briggs; The Ledford Family; The Lueckeman Family; The Roush Family; and The Schentrup Family
    • Yellow (Cougar) level partners: John Paul and Rosemarie Getting; The Neward Family; Khue and NamSon Nguyen Family; and Ken Vu
    • Green (Cub) level partner: The Knittle Family

     

    Got used markers? ColorCycle them at Grady

    What is Crayola ColorCycle? Crayola’s latest sustainability initiative designed to repurpose markers, highlighters and dry erase markers. All marker brands are accepted. 

    How do I help? Collect markers and drop them off in the front office or your student can give them to our art teacher, Debonique Grigsby. For more information, click on ColorCycle.

     

    Familias que hablan Español

    Si tienen preguntas sobre nuestros eventos o programas, por favor manda un email a communications@gradytigers.org


    Coleman Chronicle & PTSA

    5th grade parents can visit www.colemanptsa.com to create their Coleman accounts now. Please note that you are a 5th grade parent - the system automatically promotes you over the summer. Also subscribe to the Coleman Chronicle and calendar. 
     
    Attention Grady Parents who either have a rising 6th grader or who currently have a child at Coleman Middle School.  Coleman’s PTSA is recruiting for next years 2020-2021 Executive Board.  If you are interested please utilize the following link to apply: the Willingness to Lead form is ready and waiting for your attention!  
      
    For more information about the Coleman PTSA please check out our website at  www.colemanptsa.com.
     

    Coleman Incoming 6th Grade Parent Meeting 5/5/20

    Coleman Middle School will be hosting their Incoming 6th Grade Parent Meeting on May 5th from 6:00 - 7:00 pm in the Coleman cafeteria. They will do a quick "Day in the Life of a 6th Grader" and then a Q&A. 

     

    Yearbook Ads for 5th Grade Students Only

    The ability for parents to create and order ads for your yearbook through the Pixami software has been activated.  Here is a direct link to the storefront: http://www.ssiyearbooks.com/112045ges/home3/Bookstore.jsp

    Prices:

    1/4 pg. - $30

    1/2 pg. - $75

    full pg. - $150

    A 10% fee will be added when making the ad.

    The process works as follows:

    • Parents locate the storefront through http://www.ssiyearbooks.com/  or via the direct link above.

    • After selecting their desired ad size on the storefront, naming it, and choosing a theme, the parent will be prompted to create a user account.

    • Once their account is created, the parent will design the ad using an interface similar to the one provided to yearbook advisors for designing page layouts.

    • After the design is complete, customers will then place the order via the online storefront.  They will be charged the appropriate price for their size, plus a 10% handling charge for processing.

    • Once the order is complete, the prepared ads will appear on the yearbook software for placement in the book.

    Deadline to buy 5th grade yearbook ads: February 22, 2020

    Our first Grady Dad's Night of the year is coming up on Thursday, January 16th at 7:30 pm (right after Unlock the Treasures of Reading Night) at the Press Box on Dale Mabry. 

    The Press Box is located at 222 S. Dale Mabry Highway. For more details about the restaurant, please click on The Press Box

    If you are able to attend, please RSVP to Drew Catanese at 803-521-3261 or via email at [email protected]

    Tiger Talk Update 01.09.20

    January 9, 2020

    We hope everyone had a great winter break! If you are looking to purge any electronics or creative toys after the holiday season, our media center is collecting donations of gently used electronics such as computers (Windows 10 only), ipods, ipads, flat screen tvs (40 in. or less) and any creative play toys or gadgets. These items will be repurposed for education and enrichment purposes for our students.  Please bring items to the media center or contact our Media Specialist, Mr. Tsourakis, at [email protected].us if you have questions on whether we can use your specific item(s).
     
    Please note that early release Mondays are back. Pickup is at 12:55 pm on Mondays for the rest of the school year. 
     
    After School Enrichment (ASE) Club registration is now open. You can register online by clicking on ASE Club Registration. For club dates and details, please click on ASE Spring 2020. We were able to add a second Cooking Club on Tuesdays which lets more students participate and allows us to divide students by grade (although we will attempt to keep siblings together). 
     
    Volunteers are needed for Walk to School Wednesday on 1/15 and to monitor Grady's Black History Art Booth at the Florida State Fair from 2/6 - 2/17. Please see additional details below and click on the links to sign up. 
     
     
    Below are some upcoming important dates: 
    • 01/12 - Community Cleanup for 5th Grade Students at Coleman Track at 9:00 am  
    • 01/13 - Community Cleanup - Meet at Park & Walk at 12:55 pm
    • 01/14 - PTA Meeting from 8:00 - 9:00 am - Open to anyone interested in learning more about PTA and upcoming events    
    • 01/15 - Walk to School Wednesday from 7:00 - 7:35 am 
    • 01/16 - Unlock the Treasures of Reading Night from 6:00 - 7:00 pm, Grady Dad's Night at The Press Box at 7:30 pm    
    • 01/20 - Martin Luther King Jr Holiday - NO SCHOOL
    • 02/06 - Last day to submit entries for the SLAM Showcase  
    • 02/07 - NO SCHOOL  
    • 02/10 - K-2nd Sculptures due for Doodad Sculpture Contest
    • 02/12 - 3rd-5th grade Sculptures due for Doodad Sculpture Contest
    • 02/13 - Kindergarten Valentine's Concert
    • 02/14 - Jump Rope for Heart and Field Day 
    • 02/17 - President's Day - NO SCHOOL  
    • 02/19 - Ready for Kindergarten event for incoming kindergarteners      
    • 02/28 - Family Skate Night at United Skates of America at 6:00 pm 
    • 04/18 - Grady's Auction Night 

         

    Unlock the Treasures of Reading Night (Pirates & Pajamas Night) on 1/16

    On Thursday, January 16th from 6:00 - 7:00 pm is our 12th annual Unlock the Treasures of Reading Night, also known as Grady's Pirates and Pajamas Night. This event is for parents and children. From 6:15 - 7:00 pm, students will go to classrooms and enjoy stories read by pirates from local krewes. At the same time, parents of K-2nd grade students will go to the cafeteria for a Reading Essentials Information Session and parents of 3rd-5th grade students will go to the Media Center for the FSA (Florida Standards Assessment) Information Session. 

    The kids are invited to dress as pirates or wear pajamas. There will be free books, beads, juice and cookies. Don’t miss this fun event!
     

    Grady Dad's Night 1/16 at 7:30 pm

    Our first Grady Dad's Night of the year is coming up on Thursday, January 16th at 7:30 pm (right after Unlock the Treasures of Reading Night) at the Press Box at 222 S. Dale Mabry Highway. Click on The Press Box to view their menu. 

    If you are able to attend, please RSVP to Drew Catanese at 803-521-3261 or via email at [email protected]

     

    Volunteers Needed for Walk To School Wednesday and Florida State Fair

    • Walk to School Wed on 12/15 - Volunteers are needed from 6:55 - 7:40 am for student check in during our monthly Walk to School Wednesday event. Please click on Walk to School Volunteers to sign up.   
    • Volunteers are needed to monitor Grady's Black History Art Booth at the Florida State Fair this year. This year, Grady students will be learning about the accomplishments of Medgar Evers and some of their artwork will be selected to be part of the exhibit. The shifts are 3 1/2 hours long and you can walk around to other booths as well. The fair will be here from February 6th until February 17th.  If you are interested, use the link below to register and you will receive 1 free fair entry ticket for that day. https://signup.com/go/nOSfyzt

     

    Community Cleanup Opportunities

    • All Grady Students - Please help us clean the Baseball/Softball areas next to Park & Walk every Monday at 12:55 pm, right after school. Bring an adult and check in with Wendy De la Garza at the Park & Walk gate. Please bring tongs/grabbers to help pick up trash from the surrounding area. The PTA will have a few extras your students can use.
    • Grady 5th Graders - Please help us keep the Coleman Middle School track and surrounding area clean of trash. ?? ??This is a great environmental project and it serves our learning community. Bring your parent and a pair of gloves to any or all of the Sunday morning meet-ups at 9:00 am at the track entrance on W. Neptune St.  Please wear your Grady spirit shirts. 

     
    SLAM Showcase
     
    The Student Literacy and Media (SLAM) showcase is in full swing at Grady Elementary! This is a district K-12 event celebrating reading. All students are invited to make two-dimensional art projects or short video book trailers about books in the special reading list. There will be awards given and winners will proceed to a county level contest. Submissions must be sent in by February 7th. For more information about the SLAM Showcase and the official rules, please click here  or contact our Media Specialist, Mr. Tsourakis, at [email protected].us.  
     
    Doodad Sculpture Contest
     
    This year, Grady will be participating in a new experience: The Doodad Sculpture Contest! Doodads is an art sculpture competition that requires students to use recycled or upcycled materials to create a 3D art sculpture. Each year, different materials are requested to be used according to a theme and this year's theme is "SHOES"! This is an art competition that students will work on at home, but may get advice from Mrs. Grigsby, Grady's art teacher. 
     

    There will be school-level awards given out to 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and Honorable Mention winners for each grade level. We will also be hosting a party celebrating all school-level winners. All participants will receive a certificate and a ribbon. 

    All sculptures will be turned in on the stage in the cafeteria from 7:10 - 8:00 am on the dates below. If the sculpture is larger than 3' X 3', the parents will be responsible for dropping them off because we are unable to accommodate large sculptures at school. Parents can submit a picture of sculptures larger than 3' X 3' via email to [email protected].fl.us for school level judging. 

    • K-2 sculptures are due on February 10th
    • 3-5 sculptures are due on February 12th
    For more details and contest guidelines, please click on Doodad Sculpture Contest
    Yearbooks
     
    We need your help to complete our Yearbook! You don't need to come to Grady Elementary to help create our Yearbook - there is flexibility to create pages and upload photos from home or the office.Please email [email protected] if you are interested in helping. Trainings will be held on Wednesdays from 11:30 - 12:30 or you can email yearbook@gradytigers.org to schedule a different day/time.
     
    Yearbook sales are open online! Please visit www.strawbridge.net to purchase and enter online code yb112045. Yearbooks are all hardcover this year and cost $25 if purchased before March 1, 2020.  On March 1st, prices will rise to $30. 
     
    We will be sending paper forms home if you prefer to pay via cash or check. Please note that cash and checks will only be accepted in January and February. 
     
    If you have pictures from field trips, Tropicana Speeches or the Winter Concerts that you would like included in the yearbook and the website, please email them to [email protected].
     
    5th grade parents - the deadline to purchase ads for your 5th grader is February 22, 2020. 
     
     

    Box Tops

     
    Keep collecting Box Tops! For every 5 Box Tops submitted, students will obtain 1 entry into the monthly drawing. For more information, please click Grady Box Tops. 
     
    You can submit Box Tops 3 ways: 
    1. Through the Box Top$ for Education app. Send a screenshot of your current uploaded box top amounts in your app to [email protected] to be eligible for prizes. 
    2. Clip Box Tops and turn in on the form sent home or in a Ziploc Bag. Make sure to include your child's name and teacher on the form/ziploc bag. Please insure that you are sending unexpired Box Tops and not the "Skip the Clip" logos. Items with the "Skip the Clip" logo should be submitted through the Box Top$ for Education App. 
    3. Send unscanned receipts to your teacher with your child's name written on the back. 
     
    PTA Meetings
     
    The next PTA meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 14th from 8:00 - 9:00 am in the Teachers' Lounge. The meeting is open to anyone interested in learning more about the PTA and upcoming events. If you cannot attend and would like to review the prior meeting minutes, please visit PTA Board Meetings. We have also listed some of the programs that 2019-2020 PTA Fundraisers will help fund. 
     
     
    PTA Membership
     
    Who can join? ANYONE. You can add your neighbor, parents, grandparents, anyone in the community. 
    How much does it cost? $6 for one person, $10 for two.
    Where can we become members? Online at: https://gradypta.memberhub.store/
    High membership participation provides PTA with strength in numbers when advocating for our students and also allows us to participate in PTA programs such as Reflections Art. Our PTA also receives awards for membership and programs PTA offers.
     
     
    Tiger Business and Family Partners
     
    Thank you to all of our Tiger partners! Our Tiger partners greatly assist us in enhancing educational opportunities and experiences for Grady students in four main areas: make a difference in our classrooms by funding programs; deliver PTA events to our students, teachers, and families; support Grady school events by providing volunteers and/or covering expenses; and enhance Grady Elementary through health and safety projects. To learn more about Tiger Family and Business Partnerships, please click hereTiger Partnership Program. 
     
    Our 2019-20 Tiger Business Partners are

    Our 2019-20 Family Sponsors are

    • Leader of the Pack level partner: Drs. Siviero & Heather Agazzi
    • Tiger Bronze partners: Melanie Edwards Fowler; The Gibbs Family; The House Family; and The Zysk Family
    • Red (Bengal) level partners: Angi Comas; The Christopher Family; The Du Family; The Fitzgerald Family; The Gomez Family; The Jacobs Family - Jennifer, Jeremy, Welles & Briggs; The Ledford Family; The Lueckeman Family; The Roush Family; and The Schentrup Family
    • Yellow (Cougar) level partners: John Paul and Rosemarie Getting; The Neward Family; Khue and NamSon Nguyen Family; and Ken Vu
    • Green (Cub) level partner: The Knittle Family

     

    Got used markers? ColorCycle them at Grady

    What is Crayola ColorCycle? Crayola’s latest sustainability initiative designed to repurpose markers, highlighters and dry erase markers. All marker brands are accepted. 

    How do I help? Collect markers and drop them off in the front office or your student can give them to our art teacher, Debonique Grigsby. For more information, click on ColorCycle.

     

    Familias que hablan Español

    Si tienen preguntas sobre nuestros eventos o programas, por favor manda un email a communications@gradytigers.org

    On Thursday, January 16th from 6:00-7:00pm is our 12th annual Unlock the Treasures of Reading Night, also known as Grady's Pirates and Pajamas Night.  

    Parents and children are invited to this event. From 6:15 - 7:00 pm, students will go to classrooms and enjoy stories read by pirates from local krewes. While the students are listening to the stories, parents of K-2nd grade students will go to the cafeteria for a Reading Essentials Information Session and parents of 3rd-5th grade students will go to the Media Center for the FSA (Florida Standards Assessment) Information Session. 

    The kids will have a blast and they are invited to dress as pirates or wear pajamas. There will be free books, beads, juice and cookies. Please don’t miss this fun event.

    ASE Club Registration Open

    January 7, 2020

    Registration for our Spring session of After School Enrichment (ASE) Clubs will open at 6:00 pm on Tuesday, January 7th. We are sending the ASE Registration form home with your students today and you can view the details online by clicking ASE Club Information. Please note that there was an error in the paper forms - Sarah's Spanish School will continue to be the instructor for our K-2nd Spanish Club. We apologize for any confusion. 
    The clubs run from January 27th through April 24th.  Please note that clubs on Wednesday and Thursday are only open to students in grades K-2nd. There are no clubs February 17-21 due to school conferences and March 16-20 due to Spring Break. 
    As a reminder, choir rehearsals for grades 3-5th will be held from 1:15 - 2:15 pm on the following Monday afternoons: January 13, 27, February 3, 17, 24, March 9 (Concert 12th).  
    Beginning at 6:00 pm, click on ASE Club Registration to sign up. 

    Tiger Talk Update 12.18.19

    December 18, 2019

    Our students did an amazing job performing in our Winter Concert Series! Thank you to Mr. Florio for creating such wonderful events and thanks to everyone that participated in the shows, supported our students, and helped set up/clean up for the concerts. 
     
    We are also very appreciative to all of the families that donated to our Food Drive benefiting End 68 Hours of Hunger! 
     
    Friday is our last day of school before the winter break and the end of the grading period for this semester! Students are welcome to wear their pajamas to school. Please make sure that the pajamas are appropriate for school and comfortable enough to wear all day. Friday morning our Pre-K students will enjoy Breakfast with Santa. We also have classroom parties starting at 12:50 pm. 
      
    We hope you all have a wonderful Winter Break and look forward to seeing all of our students back on January 7th. 
     
    Below are some upcoming important dates: 
    • 12/23 - 1/06 - Winter Break - NO SCHOOL
    • 01/07 - Students Return to School  
    • 01/07 - Registration Opens for Spring Session of ASE Clubs
    • 01/12 - Community Cleanup for 5th Grade Students at Coleman Track at 9:00 am  
    • 01/13 - Community Cleanup - Meet at Park & Walk at 12:55 pm
    • 01/14 - PTA Meeting from 8:00 - 9:00 am - Open to anyone interested in learning more about PTA and upcoming events    
    • 01/15 - Walk to School Wednesday from 7:00 - 7:35 am
    • 01/16 - Unlock the Treasures of Reading Night at 6:00 pm
    • 01/20 - Martin Luther King Jr Holiday - NO SCHOOL
    • 04/18 - Grady's Auction Night 

     

    Holiday Shopping 
     
    If you are using Amazon for holiday shopping, please consider using Amazon Smile to ensure a portion of your purchase benefits Grady PTA.  To use Amazon Smile for Grady PTA, please click here:  https://smile.amazon.com/ch/23-7102322 to get started.    
     
    Are you looking for ideas for holiday gifts? Please check out staff and teacher profiles at Grady PTA’s website to find out what they like. Click on Faculty & Staff to view the Administration and Specialists or click on Grade Levels to view the Teachers by grade. 
     
     
    Spring ASE Clubs
     
    After School Enrichment (ASE) Club registration will open on January 7th for the Spring Session. Your student will be receiving a paper flyer with the Spring Club details on Friday. We will send an email with the online registration link on January 7th or you can send in the paper form and payment to the office. 
     
    Spring ASE Clubs run from January 27th through April 24th. Please note that clubs on Wednesday and Thursday are only open to students in grades K-2nd. There are no clubs the week of February 17-21 due to school conferences and the week of March 16-20 due to Spring Break.     
     

    Community Cleanup Opportunities

    All Grady Students - Please help us clean the Baseball/Softball areas next to Park & Walk every Monday, right after school. Starting January 13th at 12:55 pm, bring an adult and check in with Wendy De la Garza at the Park & Walk gate. Bring tongs/grabbers to help pick up trash from the surrounding area. The PTA will have a few extras your students can use.

    Grady 5th Graders - Please help us keep the Coleman Middle School track and surrounding area clean of trash. ?? ??This is a great environmental project and it serves our learning community. Bring your parent and a pair of gloves to any or all of the Sunday morning meet-ups at 9am at the track entrance on W. Neptune St.  Please wear your Grady spirit shirts. 

     
    Doodad Sculpture Contest
     
    This year, Grady will be participating in a new experience: The Doodad Sculpture Contest! Doodads is an art sculpture competition that requires students to use recycled or upcycled materials to create a 3D art sculpture. Each year, different materials are requested to be used according to a theme and this year's theme is "SHOES"! This is an art competition that students will work on at home, but may get advice from Mrs. Grigsby, Grady's art teacher. 
     

    There will be school-level awards given out to 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and Honorable Mention winners for each grade level. We will also be hosting a party celebrating all school-level winners. All participants will receive a certificate and a ribbon. 

    All sculptures will be turned in on the stage in the cafeteria from 7:10 - 8:00 am on the dates below. If the sculpture is larger than 3' X 3', the parents will be responsible for dropping them off because we are unable to accommodate large sculptures at school. Parents can submit a picture of sculptures larger than 3' X 3' via email to [email protected] for school level judging. 

    • K-2 sculptures are due on February 10th
    • 3-5 sculptures are due on February 12th
    For more details and contest guidelines, please click on Doodad Sculpture Contest
     
    Yearbooks
     
    We need your help to complete our Yearbook! You don't need to come to Grady Elementary to help create our Yearbook - there is flexibility to create pages and upload photos from home or the office.Please email [email protected] if you are interested in helping. Trainings will be held on Wednesdays from 11:30 - 12:30 or can be scheduled by emailing [email protected].
     
    Yearbook sales are open online! Please visit www.strawbridge.net to purchase and enter online code yb112045. Yearbooks are all hardcover this year and cost $25 if purchased before March 1, 2020.  On March 1st, prices will rise to $30. 
     
    We will be sending paper forms home if you prefer to pay via cash or check. Please note that cash and checks will only be accepted in January and February. 
     
    If you have pictures from field trips, Tropicana Speeches or the Winter Concerts that you would like included in the yearbook and the website, please email them to [email protected].
     
    5th grade parents - the deadline to purchase ads for your 5th grader is February 22, 2020. 
     
     

    Box Tops

     
    Keep collecting Box Tops! For every 5 Box Tops submitted, students will obtain 1 entry into the monthly drawing. For more information, please click Grady Box Tops. 
     
    You can submit Box Tops 3 ways: 
    1. Through the Box Top$ for Education app. Send a screenshot of your current uploaded box top amounts in your app to [email protected] to be eligible for prizes. 
    2. Clip Box Tops and turn in on the form sent home or in a Ziploc Bag. Make sure to include your child's name and teacher on the form/ziploc bag. Please insure that you are sending unexpired Box Tops and not the "Skip the Clip" logos. Items with the "Skip the Clip" logo should be submitted through the Box Top$ for Education App. 
    3. Send unscanned receipts to your teacher with your child's name written on the back. 
     
    PTA Meetings
     
    The next PTA meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 14th from 8:00 - 9:00 am in the Teachers' Lounge. The meeting is open to anyone interested in learning more about the PTA and upcoming events. If you cannot attend and would like to review the prior meeting minutes, please visit PTA Board Meetings. We have also listed some of the programs that 2019-2020 PTA Fundraisers will help fund. 
     
     
    PTA Membership
     
    Who can join? ANYONE. You can add your neighbor, parents, grandparents, anyone in the community. 
    How much does it cost? $6 for one person, $10 for two.
    Where can we become members? Online at: https://gradypta.memberhub.store/
    High membership participation provides PTA with strength in numbers when advocating for our students and also allows us to participate in PTA programs such as Reflections Art. Our PTA also receives awards for membership and programs PTA offers.
     
     
    Tiger Business and Family Partners
     
    Thank you to all of our Tiger partners! Our Tiger partners greatly assist us in enhancing educational opportunities and experiences for Grady students in four main areas: make a difference in our classrooms by funding programs; deliver PTA events to our students, teachers, and families; support Grady school events by providing volunteers and/or covering expenses; and enhance Grady Elementary through health and safety projects. To learn more about Tiger Family and Business Partnerships, please click hereTiger Partnership Program. 
     
    Our 2019-20 Tiger Business Partners are

    Our 2019-20 Family Sponsors are

    • Leader of the Pack level partner: Drs. Siviero & Heather Agazzi
    • Tiger Bronze partners: Melanie Edwards Fowler; The Gibbs Family; The House Family; and The Zysk Family
    • Red (Bengal) level partners: Angi Comas; The Christopher Family; The Du Family; The Fitzgerald Family; The Gomez Family; The Jacobs Family - Jennifer, Jeremy, Welles & Briggs; The Ledford Family; The Lueckeman Family; The Roush Family; and The Schentrup Family
    • Yellow (Cougar) level partners: John Paul and Rosemarie Getting; The Neward Family; Khue and NamSon Nguyen Family; and Ken Vu
    • Green (Cub) level partner: The Knittle Family

     

    Got used markers? ColorCycle them at Grady

    What is Crayola ColorCycle? Crayola’s latest sustainability initiative designed to repurpose markers, highlighters and dry erase markers. All marker brands are accepted. 

    How do I help? Collect markers and drop them off in the front office or your student can give them to our art teacher, Debonique Grigsby. 

    For more information, click on ColorCycle.

     

    Familias que hablan Español

    Si tienen preguntas sobre nuestros eventos o programas, por favor manda un email a communications@gradytigers.org

    Tiger Talk Update 12.06.19

    December 6, 2019

    Thank you to all of our volunteers and families that braved a chilly morning to Walk to School on Wednesday! We had 150 walkers and our winning class this month is Ms. Webber's! We are tallying the walkers each month to calculate our grand prize winner and right now, Ms. Trupp's class is in the lead. 
     
    We need your help to clean up our beautiful school on Saturday, December 7th from 9:00 - 11:00 am. Bring the whole family (adults and kids) to help pull weeds, trim palm fronds, rake leaves, etc... Just show up in yard work clothes at the front of Grady Elementary at 9:00 am. Grady PTA will provide bottled water. Please contact Brad Smith at [email protected] with any questions. 
      
    Our amazing crossing guard, Janet Anderson, has been nominated for America's Favorite Crossing Guard. To vote for Janet, please click on Crossing Guard. You can vote once a day through December 12th. 
     
    As a reminder, today is the last day of the Fall session of After School Enrichment Clubs. Please note that our Tuesday Clubs will meet on Tuesday, December 10th for their Hurricane Dorian Make Up Day. 
     
    Below are some upcoming important dates: 
    • 12/07 - Fall Family Cleanup
    • 12/09 - STEM Fair Viewing from 5:30 - 6:30 pm
    • 12/10 - PTA Meeting from 8:00 - 9:00 am - Open to anyone interested in learning more about PTA and upcoming events  
    • 12/10 - Tuesday Clubs - Hurricane Dorian Make Up Day
    • 12/11 - Winter Concert and Art Exhibit for 1st and 2nd Grade (Art Exhibit from 5:00 - 5:45 pm, concert at 6:00 pm)
    • 12/12 -  Winter Concert and Art Exhibit for 3rd - 5th Grade Chorus (Art Exhibit from 5:00 - 5:45 pm, concert at 6:00 pm)
    • 12/13 -  Winter Concert and Art Exhibit for Pre-K and Kindergarten (Art Exhibit from 7:10 - 7:55 am, concert at 8:15 am)
    • 12/17 - Last day to turn in items for the Food Drive benefiting End 68 Hours of Hunger
    • 12/18 - Winter Cooking Club Special from 2:15 - 4:15 pm
    • 12/23 - 1/06 - Winter Break - NO SCHOOL
    • 04/18/20 - Grady's Auction Night 
     
    Fall Family Clean up 12/7 
    We need your help to clean up our beautiful school, Grady Elementary. Bring the whole family (adults and kids) to Grady on Saturday, December 7th from 9:00 - 11:00 am to help our school with cosmetic maintenance. We will be pulling weeds, trimming palm fronds, raking leaves, etc... Just show up in yard work clothes at the front of Grady Elementary at 9:00 am. Please contact Brad Smith at [email protected] with any questions. 
     
    STEM Fair Project Viewing 12/9
     
    All parents are invited to stop by Grady Elementary's cafeteria on December 9th to view the 2019 STEM Fair projects between 5:30 and 6:30 pm. The STEM Fair winners will be announced at 5:40 pm. 
     

    Grady Winter Concerts & Art Exhibit

    Our Winter Concerts are quickly approaching! For full details, please click on Winter Concerts. Volunteers are needed to help set up and clean up for the concert. If you are interested in volunteering, please click Winter Concert Volunteers. We appreciate any volunteers, even if you have to arrive late or leave early. Please send photos from the Winter Concerts  to [email protected] if you would like them included in the Yearbook and website

    1st & 2nd Grade: Wednesday, December 11th

    • 3:00 - 9:00 pm - Family Dinner Night at PDQ (Make sure to mention you are with Grady Elementary)
    • 5:00 - 5:45 pm - Art Fair Project viewing in Cafeteria
    • 5:00 pm - 5th Grade Yummy Treat Sale (please bring cash, all donations benefit 5th grade end of year events)
    • 6:00 pm - Winter Concert Starts

    3rd, 4th & 5th Grade Chorus: Thursday, December 12th  
    • 5:00 - 5:45 pm - Art Fair Project viewing in Cafeteria
    • 5:00 pm - 5th Grade Yummy Treat Sale (please bring cash, all donations benefit 5th grade end of year events)
    • 6:00 pm - Winter Concert Starts
    Pre-K and Kindergarten: Friday, December 13th  
    • 7:10 - 7:55 am - Art Fair Project viewing in Cafeteria
    • 8:15 am - Winter Concert Starts

    Grady's Food Drive benefiting End 68 Hours of Hunger

    Grady Elementary is running a food drive to benefit End 68 Hours of Hunger of Hillsborough County. Donations will be collected from December 2nd to December 17th. Please send donations in with your child and they will place them in the donation box in their classroom or bring donations to the Winter Concert and Art Exhibit. 

    To see the list of recommended donation items, please click on Food Drive Donation Items. Please note that they have requested no cans or glass jars.  

     
    Auction Night 4/18
     
    If you were not able to attend our Auction planning meeting on 12/04, but would like to help with Auction Night, please contact Michelle Caceres at a[email protected]
     
    Doodad Sculpture Contest
     
    This year, Grady will be participating in a new experience: The Doodad Sculpture Contest! Doodads is an art sculpture competition that requires students to use recycled or upcycled materials to create a 3D art sculpture. We will be providing Grady deadlines and more details shortly, but in the meantime, you can view contest guidelines by clicking on Doodad Sculpture Contest
     
     
    Holiday Shopping 
    If you are using Amazon for holiday shopping, please consider using Amazon Smile to ensure a portion of your purchase benefits Grady PTA.  To use Amazon Smile for Grady PTA, please click here:  https://smile.amazon.com/ch/23-7102322 to get started.    
     
    Are you looking for ideas for holiday gifts? Please check out staff and teacher profiles at Grady PTA’s website to find out what they like. Click on Faculty & Staff to view the Administration and Specialists or click on Grade Levels to view the Teachers by grade. 
     
    Yearbooks
    Yearbook sales are open online! Please visit www.strawbridge.net to purchase and enter online code yb112045. Yearbooks are all hardcover this year and cost $25 if purchased before March 1, 2020.  On March 1st, prices will rise to $30. 
    We will be sending paper forms home if you prefer to pay via cash or check. Please note that cash and checks will only be accepted in January and February. 
    If you have pictures from field trips, Skate Night, Art Night, Great American Teach In, Math Bowl or the Winter Concerts that you would like included in the yearbook and the website, please email them to [email protected].
     

    Box Tops

     
    Keep collecting Box Tops! For every 5 Box Tops submitted, students will obtain 1 entry into the monthly drawing. Turn in your Box Tops for a chance to win a giant stocking full of toys! For more information, please click Grady Box Tops. 
    You can submit Box Tops 3 ways: 
    1. Through the Box Top$ for Education app. Send a screenshot of your current uploaded box top amounts in your app to [email protected] to be eligible for prizes. 
    2. Clip Box Tops and turn in on the form sent home or in a Ziploc Bag. Make sure to include your child's name and teacher on the form/ziploc bag. Please insure that you are sending unexpired Box Tops and not the "Skip the Clip" logos. Items with the "Skip the Clip" logo should be submitted through the Box Top$ for Education App. 
    3. Send unscanned receipts to your teacher with your child's name written on the back. 
     
    PTA Meetings
    The next PTA meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 10th from 8:00 - 9:00 am in the Teachers' Lounge. The meeting is open to anyone interested in learning more about the PTA and upcoming events. If you cannot attend and would like to review the prior meeting minutes, please visit PTA Board Meetings. We have also listed some of the programs that 2019-2020 PTA Fundraisers will help fund. 
     
     
    PTA Membership
    Who can join? ANYONE. You can add your neighbor, parents, grandparents, anyone in the community. 
    How much does it cost? $6 for one person, $10 for two.
    Where can we become members? Online at: https://gradypta.memberhub.store/
    High membership participation provides PTA with strength in numbers when advocating for our students and also allows us to participate in PTA programs such as Reflections Art. Our PTA also receives awards for membership and programs PTA offers.
     
    Tiger Business and Family Partners
    Thank you to all of our Tiger partners! Our Tiger partners greatly assist us in enhancing educational opportunities and experiences for Grady students in four main areas: make a difference in our classrooms by funding programs; deliver PTA events to our students, teachers, and families; support Grady school events by providing volunteers and/or covering expenses; and enhance Grady Elementary through health and safety projects. To learn more about Tiger Family and Business Partnerships, please click hereTiger Partnership Program. 
     
    Our 2019-20 Tiger Business Partners are

    Our 2019-20 Family Sponsors are

    • Leader of the Pack level partner: Drs. Siviero & Heather Agazzi
    • Tiger Bronze partners: Melanie Edwards Fowler; The Gibbs Family; The House Family; and The Zysk Family
    • Red (Bengal) level partners: Angi Comas; The Christopher Family; The Du Family; The Fitzgerald Family; The Gomez Family; The Jacobs Family - Jennifer, Jeremy, Welles & Briggs; The Ledford Family; The Lueckeman Family; The Roush Family; and The Schentrup Family
    • Yellow (Cougar) level partners: John Paul and Rosemarie Getting; The Neward Family; Khue and NamSon Nguyen Family; and Ken Vu
    • Green (Cub) level partner: The Knittle Family

     

    Got used markers? ColorCycle them at Grady

    What is Crayola ColorCycle? Crayola’s latest sustainability initiative designed to repurpose markers, highlighters and dry erase markers. All marker brands are accepted. 

    How do I help? Collect markers and drop them off in the front office or your student can give them to our art teacher, Debonique Grigsby. 

    For more information, click on ColorCycle.

    Familias que hablan Español

    Si tienen preguntas sobre nuestros eventos o programas, por favor manda un email a communications@gradytigers.org

    Grady Elementary is running a food drive to benefit End 68 Hours of Hunger of Hillsborough County. Donations will be collected from December 2nd to December 17th. Please send donations in with your child and they will place them in the donation box in their classroom.  You can also bring the donations to the Winter Concerts on December 11th, 12th, and 13th. 

    Recommended donation items....NO CANS OR GLASS PLEASE:

    • Grape or Strawberry Jelly
    • Applesauce
    • Crackers/Saltines
    • Pasta/Pasta Sauce (in PACKETS)
    • Soups in PACKAGES
    • Pancake/Waffle Mix and Syrup
    • Snack Items - individually wrapped
    • Fruit in PLASTIC TUBS
    • Beef or Oriental Flavored Ramen Noodles
    • Mac & Cheese
    • Tuna in packets
    • Peanut butter/cheese crackers
    • Cereal
    • Rice
    • Cookies

    December 3rd will be Grady Elementary mandated health screenings. We will start at 8 am and end around 1pm.

    We will be do vision screening for all Kindergarteners. We will also be doing vision, height, weight and body mass index (BMI) for all 1st graders and 3rd graders.

    If your student fails our vision screening, a letter will be sent home with the information. If the vision screening is passed, you will not receive a letter. All students in 1st and 3rd grade will be printed a report of their height, weight and BMI—if normal or abnormal.

    If your child is absent we will do their screening when they return to school.

    If you need any further information please contact Beth Kenyon, RN at 813-272-3090 ext 226 or Nurse Rehmann in the Grady Clinic 813-872-5325.

    We need volunteers to assist with our health screening for Kindergarten, 1st grade and 3rd Grade. We will need assistance with crowd control, keeping children quiet, keeping classes on time and adjusting classes early or late upon the class current situation. Please click on Student Health Screenings to sign up. Shifts are 1 hour long and start at 7:30 am. 

     

     

    Grady Health Screening Schedule

    3rd Neldner 8:05am-8:25am

    3rd Doremus 8:25am-8:45am

    3rd Newberry 8:45am-9:05am

    KG Hero 9:05am-9:25am

    KG Ordonez-Ward 9:25am-9:45am

    3rd Oliva 9:50am-10:10am

    KG Finitz 9:45am-10:05am

    KG Dreby 10:05am-10:25am

    1st Wolfe 10:25am-10:45am

    1st DelCastillo 10:45am-11:05am  

    1st Ward 1105am-1125am

    1st Horne 12:15pm-12:35pm

    Grady's annual Thanksgiving Feast is next week on Wednesday, November 20th. Lunch will be held in the Grady cafeteria during your student's lunch time. For more details and to view the full lunch schedule, please click on 2019 Thanksgiving LunchPlease note that tomorrow, November 15th is the deadline for the Thanksgiving Feast Reservations and money for additional adult and child lunches. No money or reservations will be accepted on the day of the feast. 
     

    Make sure that you bring a photo ID and allow time to sign in and receive a visitor's pass from the front office.

    We urgently need volunteers to help with Thanksgiving Lunch! Please click on Thanksgiving Lunch Volunteer to sign up. Shifts are 1 hour each and you can leave a note in the comment section if you would like to start/finish a few minutes early in order to participate in your child's lunch.

    Below are some upcoming important dates: 
    • 11/15 - Last day to turn in reservation forms and money for Thanksgiving Lunch
    • 11/20 - Thanksgiving Lunch
    • 11/21 - Great American Teach In
    • 11/22 - Tiger Trek Class Parties
    • 11/25 - 11/29 - Fall Break - NO SCHOOL
    • 12/04 - Walk to School Wednesday
    • 12/10 - PTA Meeting from 8:00 - 9:00 am - Open to anyone interested in learning more about PTA and upcoming events  
    • 12/11 - Winter Concert for 1st and 2nd Grade at 6:00 pm
    • 12/12Winter Concert for 3rd - 5th Grade Chorus at 6:00 pm  
    • 12/13 -  Winter Concert for Pre-K and Kindergarten at 8:15 am
    • 12/23 - 1/06 - Winter Break - NO SCHOOL
    • 04/18/20 - Grady's Auction Night 

     

    Holiday Shopping 
    If you are using Amazon for holiday shopping, please consider using Amazon Smile to ensure a portion of your purchase benefits Grady PTA.  To use Amazon Smile for Grady PTA, please click here:  https://smile.amazon.com/ch/23-7102322 to get started.    
     
    Are you looking for ideas for holiday gifts? Please check out staff and teacher profiles at Grady PTA’s website to find out what they like. Click on Faculty & Staff to view the Administration and Specialists or click on Grade Levels to view the Teachers by grade. 
     
     
    Tiger Trek Parties
     
    Thanks again to all of our Tiger Trek donors and participants! Class parties will held on November 22nd. That will also be a non-uniform day where students can wear their favorite sports team gear. We are very excited that thanks to our generous donors, all of our classes have earned a class party on the 22nd. Please click on Tiger Trek Class Parties to view the list of parties each class earned and at what time their party will be held. 
     
    Auction Night 4/18
     
    Our 3rd annual adult only Auction Night is coming up on April 18th. We need your help to make it an amazing night! We need volunteers for our Decoration and Donation Committees. Planning Meetings will be held once a month and attendance will be required. We will be sending out more details about the meeting places and dates shortly. If you are interested in helping with the auction, please contact Kat Cowley at [email protected]
     
    Yearbooks
    Yearbook sales are open online! Please visit www.strawbridge.net to purchase and enter online code yb112045. Yearbooks are all hardcover this year and cost $25 if purchased before March 1, 2020.  On March 1st, prices will rise to $30. 
    We will be sending paper forms home if you prefer to pay via cash or check. Please note that cash and checks will only be accepted in January and February. 
    If you have pictures from field trips, Student of the Month ceremonies, or fall festival that you would like included in the yearbook or on the website, please email them to [email protected].

    Box Tops

     
    Keep collecting Box Tops! For every 5 Box Tops submitted, students will obtain 1 entry into the monthly drawing. Turn in your Box Tops in November and December for a chance to win a giant stocking full of toys! For more information, please click Grady Box Tops. 
    You can submit Box Tops 3 ways: 
    1. Through the Box Top$ for Education app. Send a screenshot of your current uploaded box top amounts in your app to [email protected] to be eligible for prizes. 
    2. Clip Box Tops and turn in on the form sent home or in a Ziploc Bag. Make sure to include your child's name and teacher on the form/ziploc bag. Please insure that you are sending unexpired Box Tops and not the "Skip the Clip" logos. Items with the "Skip the Clip" logo should be submitted through the Box Top$ for Education App. 
    3. Send unscanned receipts to your teacher with your child's name written on the back. 
     
    PTA Meetings
    The next PTA meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 10th from 8:00 - 9:00 am in the Teachers' Lounge. The meeting is open to anyone interested in learning more about the PTA and upcoming events. If you cannot attend and would like to review the prior meeting minutes, please visit PTA Board Meetings. We have also listed some of the programs that 2019-2020 PTA Fundraisers will help fund. 
     
     
    PTA Membership
    Who can join? ANYONE. You can add your neighbor, parents, grandparents, anyone in the community. 
    How much does it cost? $6 for one person, $10 for two.
    Where can we become members? Online at: https://gradypta.memberhub.store/
    High membership participation provides PTA with strength in numbers when advocating for our students and also allows us to participate in PTA programs such as Reflections Art. Our PTA also receives awards for membership and programs PTA offers.
     
     
    Tiger Business and Family Partners
    Thank you to all of our Tiger partners! Our Tiger partners greatly assist us in enhancing educational opportunities and experiences for Grady students in four main areas: make a difference in our classrooms by funding programs; deliver PTA events to our students, teachers, and families; support Grady school events by providing volunteers and/or covering expenses; and enhance Grady Elementary through health and safety projects. To learn more about Tiger Family and Business Partnerships, please click hereTiger Partnership Program. 
     
    Our 2019-20 Tiger Business Partners are

    Our 2019-20 Family Sponsors are

    • Leader of the Pack level partner: Drs. Siviero & Heather Agazzi
    • Tiger Bronze partners: Melanie Edwards Fowler; The Gibbs Family; The House Family; and The Zysk Family
    • Red (Bengal) level partners: Angi Comas; The Christopher Family; The Du Family; The Fitzgerald Family; The Gomez Family; The Jacobs Family - Jennifer, Jeremy, Welles & Briggs; The Ledford Family; The Lueckeman Family; The Roush Family; and The Schentrup Family
    • Yellow (Cougar) level partners: John Paul and Rosemarie Getting; The Neward Family; Khue and NamSon Nguyen Family; and Ken Vu
    • Green (Cub) level partner: The Knittle Family


    Got used markers? ColorCycle them at Grady

    What is Crayola ColorCycle? Crayola’s latest sustainability initiative designed to repurpose markers, highlighters and dry erase markers. All marker brands are accepted. 

    How do I help? Collect markers and drop them off in the front office or your student can give them to our art teacher, Debonique Grigsby. 

    For more information, click on ColorCycle.

    Familias que hablan Español

    Si tienen preguntas sobre nuestros eventos o programas, por favor manda un email a [email protected]

    Tiger Talk Update 11.07.19

    November 7, 2019

    Thank you to all of our students, families, and volunteers that participated in yesterday's Walk to School Wednesday! We had 180 walkers. Congratulations to Mrs. Dreby's class for winning the recess goodies with 11 participants - more than half the class! Save the date for our next Walk to School Wednesday on December 4th. We are looking for photos from Walk To School Wednesday, Storybook Parade or the Fall Festival for the website and yearbook. Please email photos from these events to [email protected]
     
     
    Our 3rd annual adult only Auction Night is coming up on April 18th. We need your help to make it an amazing night! ***We are looking for an Auction Coordinator***, as well as volunteers for the Decorations and Donations Committees. Please contact Kat Cowley at [email protected] for more information. 
      
    Below are some upcoming important dates: 
    • 11/11 - Veterans Day - NO SCHOOL 
    • 11/12 - PTA Meeting from 8:00 - 9:00 am - Open to anyone interested in learning more about PTA and upcoming events
    • 11/20 - Thanksgiving Lunch
    • 11/21 - Great American Teach In
    • 11/22 - Tiger Trek Class Parties
    • 11/25 - 11/29 - Fall Break - NO SCHOOL
    • 12/04 - Walk to School Wednesday
    • 12/23 - 1/06 - Winter Break - NO SCHOOL
    • 04/18/20 - Grady's Auction Night 
     
    Auction Night 4/18
     
    Our 3rd annual adult only Auction Night is coming up on April 18th. We need your help to make it an amazing night! 
     
    We need volunteers for: Auction Coordinator, Decorations Committee and Donations Committee. Ideally we will have 10-15 volunteers for each of the committees. Planning Meetings will be held once a month and attendance will be required. We will be sending out more details about the meeting places and dates shortly. If you are interested in helping with the auction, please contact Kat Cowley at [email protected]
     
    Thanksgiving Lunch
     
    Grady's annual Thanksgiving Feast will take place on Wednesday, November 20th in the Grady cafeteria during your student's lunch time. For more details and to view the full lunch schedule, please click on 2019 Thanksgiving Lunch. Please note that November 15th is the deadline for the Thanksgiving Feast Reservations and money for additional adult and child lunches. No money or reservations will be accepted on the day of the feast. 
     

    Make sure that you bring a photo ID and allow time to sign in and receive a visitor's pass from the front office.

    We need your help volunteering at Thanksgiving lunch! Please click on Thanksgiving Lunch Volunteer to sign up. Shifts are 1 hour each and you can leave a note in the comment section if you would like to start/finish a few minutes early in order to participate in your child's lunch.

     
    Tiger Trek Parties
     
    Thanks again to all of our Tiger Trek donors and participants! We raised over $25,000 towards our track! We had an amazing time celebrating the students that earned individual Tiger Trek Ice Cream, Kona Ice, and Video Game parties on October 31st. 
    Special congratulations to our top 5 individual students:
    1st Place - Olivia Torres
    2nd Place - Lennon Berner
    3rd Place - Ana Gomez
    4th Place - Edward Holley
    5th Place - Pablo Gomez

    Class parties will held on November 22nd. That will also be a non-uniform day where students can wear their favorite sports team gear. We are very excited that thanks to our generous donors, all of our classes have earned a class party on the 22nd. Please click on Tiger Trek Class Parties to view a full list with the party each class earned. 

     
    Box Tops
     
    Keep collecting Box Tops! For every 5 Box Tops submitted, students will obtain 1 entry into the monthly drawing. Turn in your Box Tops in November and December for a chance to win a giant stocking full of toys! For more information, please click Grady Box Tops. 
    You can submit Box Tops 3 ways: 
    1. Through the Box Top$ for Education app. Send a screenshot of your current uploaded box top amounts in your app to [email protected] to be eligible for prizes. 
    2. Clip Box Tops and turn in on the form sent home or in a Ziploc Bag. Make sure to include your child's name and teacher on the form/ziploc bag. Please insure that you are sending unexpired Box Tops and not the "Skip the Clip" logos. Items with the "Skip the Clip" logo should be submitted through the Box Top$ for Education App. 
    3. Send unscanned receipts to your teacher with your child's name written on the back. 
     
    PTA Meetings
    The next PTA meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 12th from 8:00 - 9:00 am in the Teachers' Lounge. The meeting is open to anyone interested in learning more about the PTA and upcoming events. If you cannot attend and would like to review the prior meeting minutes, please visit PTA Board Meetings. We have also listed some of the programs that 2019-2020 PTA Fundraisers will help fund. 
     
     
    PTA Membership
    Who can join? ANYONE. You can add your neighbor, parents, grandparents, anyone in the community. 
    How much does it cost? $6 for one person, $10 for two.
    Where can we become members? Online at: https://gradypta.memberhub.store/
    High membership participation provides PTA with strength in numbers when advocating for our students and also allows us to participate in PTA programs such as Reflections Art. Our PTA also receives awards for membership and programs PTA offers.
     
    Tiger Business and Family Partners
    Thank you to all of our Tiger partners! Our Tiger partners greatly assist us in enhancing educational opportunities and experiences for Grady students in four main areas: make a difference in our classrooms by funding programs; deliver PTA events to our students, teachers, and families; support Grady school events by providing volunteers and/or covering expenses; and enhance Grady Elementary through health and safety projects. To learn more about Tiger Family and Business Partnerships, please click hereTiger Partnership Program. 
     
    Our 2019-20 Tiger Business Partners are

    Our 2019-20 Family Sponsors are

    • Leader of the Pack level partner: Drs. Siviero & Heather Agazzi
    • Tiger Bronze partners: Melanie Edwards Fowler; The Gibbs Family; The House Family; and The Zysk Family
    • Red (Bengal) level partners: Angi Comas; The Christopher Family; The Du Family; The Fitzgerald Family; The Gomez Family; The Jacobs Family - Jennifer, Jeremy, Welles & Briggs; The Ledford Family; The Lueckeman Family; The Roush Family; and The Schentrup Family
    • Yellow (Cougar) level partners: John Paul and Rosemarie Getting; The Neward Family; Khue and NamSon Nguyen Family; and Ken Vu
    • Green (Cub) level partner: The Knittle Family

    Tiger Talk Update 10.30.19

    October 30, 2019

    Thank you so much to everyone who attended our Fall Festival, especially our amazing volunteers who helped the event run smoothly and Mr. Tsourakis for allowing our students to slime him! Despite the rain early on, it was an incredibly fun night for our students! Also, thank you to our vendors and sponsors that set up tables and entertainment for our students - Drama Kids, Soccer Shots, Martial Arts Advantage, Rockatar, Perez Orthodontics, and Traditional Tae Kwan Do Black Belt Center. Thank you to Publix for donating the drinks and snacks. We greatly appreciate all the parents, teachers, office staff, former Grady students, and everyone else who stepped up to make the night a success.  
    Our Annual Storybook Parade takes place tomorrow, October 31st at 8:15 am. Teachers, staff and students are invited to dress in a costume depicting a favorite storybook character and are encouraged to carry the book that depicts their costume. Students may change into their uniform after the parade if they’d like to! *Please note that according to school board policy, toy guns, toy swords or weapons of any kind cannot be brought to school. Also, please be aware that very scary costumes are not permitted. For more details, please click on Storybook Parade.
     
    The parade will begin at 8:15 a.m. The spectator viewing area is standing room only outside the school’s front office, along the car line area. Students will parade out the front office gate and walk along the sidewalk traveling East towards the Media Center.  
    Starbucks has generously donated coffee for the storybook parade spectators and the 5th grade will have a donation-based bake sale, so bring a little cash if you would like a little morning treat for yourself! The PTA table will have membership forms available and will also be selling adult shirts (sizes S, L, XL) for $20 each and drawstring bags for $10 each. There will be a discount on PTA items purchased for anyone that signs a grandparent up for PTA membership. 
    The Tiger Trek Ice Cream, Kona Ice, Video Game parties, and lunch with Mr. Campbell and Mrs. Gonzalez are also scheduled on October 31st for students who earned them through fundraising! The Ice Cream Party will take place from 9:30 - 10:00 am. The Kona Ice and Video Game Parties are scheduled between 10:00 - 12:00 pm. The Kona Ice and Video Game Parties are each 1 hour long and we have also scheduled for a 30 minute lunch with Mr. Campbell or Mrs. Gonzalez. Please note that the class parties will be held on November 22nd. We will circulate more details about the class parties in November. 
     
    PTA Membership
    Every new member that signs up by tomorrow, October 31st, will be entered in a raffle to win a free hard cover 2019-2020 Grady Yearbook, valued at $25. We will raffle 1 yearbook for every 10 new members. People adding grandparents as members will get 2 tickets for the yearbook raffle and will get 2 for 1 pricing on PTA shirts and drawstring bags.   
     
    Who can join? ANYONE. You can add your neighbor, parents, grandparents, anyone in the community. 
    How much does it cost? $6 for one person, $10 for two.
    Where can we become members? Online at: https://gradypta.memberhub.store/ or sign up at the Storybook Parade on October 31st
    High membership participation provides PTA with strength in numbers when advocating for our students and also allows us to participate in PTA programs such as Reflections Art. Our PTA also receives awards for membership and programs PTA offers.
    Our goal is to add at least 23 more members by tomorrow. 
     
    Below are some upcoming important dates: 
    • 10/31 - Storybook Parade at 8:15 am (Parents are invited to watch the parade)
    • 11/06 - Walk to School Wednesday from 7:00 - 7:40 am
    • 11/11 - Veteran's Day - NO SCHOOL 
    • 11/12 - PTA Meeting from 8:00 - 9:00 am - Open to anyone interested in learning more about PTA and upcoming events
    • 04/18/20 - Grady's Auction Night
     
    Box Tops
     
    Keep collecting Box Tops! For every 5 Box Tops submitted, students will obtain 1 entry into the monthly drawing. Turn in your Box Tops in November and December for a chance to win a giant stocking full of toys! For more information, please click Grady Box Tops. 
    You can submit Box Tops 3 ways: 
    1. Through the Box Top$ for Education app. Send a screenshot of your current uploaded box top amounts in your app to [email protected] to be eligible for prizes. 
    2. Clip Box Tops and turn in on the form sent home or in a Ziploc Bag. Make sure to include your child's name and teacher on the form/ziploc bag. Please insure that you are sending unexpired Box Tops and not the "Skip the Clip" logos. Items with the "Skip the Clip" logo should be submitted through the Box Top$ for Education App. 
    3. Send unscanned receipts to your teacher with your child's name written on the back. 
     
    PTA Meetings
    The next PTA meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 12th from 8:00 - 9:00 am in the Teachers' Lounge. The meeting is open to anyone interested in learning more about the PTA and upcoming events. If you cannot attend and would like to review the prior meeting minutes, please visit PTA Board Meetings. We have also listed some of the programs that 2019-2020 PTA Fundraisers will help fund. 
     
     
    Tiger Business and Family Partners
    Thank you to all of our Tiger partners! Our Tiger partners greatly assist us in enhancing educational opportunities and experiences for Grady students in four main areas: make a difference in our classrooms by funding programs; deliver PTA events to our students, teachers, and families; support Grady school events by providing volunteers and/or covering expenses; and enhance Grady Elementary through health and safety projects. To learn more about Tiger Family and Business Partnerships, please click hereTiger Partnership Program. 
     
    Our 2019-20 Tiger Business Partners are

    Our 2019-20 Family Sponsors are

    • Leader of the Pack level partner: Drs. Siviero & Heather Agazzi
    • Tiger Bronze partners: Melanie Edwards Fowler; The Gibbs Family; The House Family; and The Zysk Family
    • Red (Bengal) level partners: Angi Comas; The Christopher Family; The Du Family; The Fitzgerald Family; The Gomez Family; The Jacobs Family - Jennifer, Jeremy, Welles & Briggs; The Ledford Family; The Lueckeman Family; The Roush Family; and The Schentrup Family
    • Yellow (Cougar) level partners: John Paul and Rosemarie Getting; The Neward Family; Khue and NamSon Nguyen Family; and Ken Vu
    • Green (Cub) level partner: The Knittle Family


    Got used markers? ColorCycle them at Grady

    What is Crayola ColorCycle? Crayola’s latest sustainability initiative designed to repurpose markers, highlighters and dry erase markers. All marker brands are accepted. 

    How do I help? Collect markers and drop them off in the front office or your student can give them to our art teacher, Debonique Grigsby. 

    For more information, click on ColorCycle.

    Tiger Trek Winners 2019

    October 29, 2019

    Thank you to everyone who participated and donated to Tiger Trek! We raised over $25,000!! The proceeds will all go towards our 2 year project to build a track at Grady. 

    Congratulations to our Tiger Trek individual student winners! They did an amazing job raising funds for Grady!
    1st Place - Olivia Torres - Advantage Martial Arts Birthday Party
    2nd Place - Lennon Berner - $150 Gift Certificate from Bricks 4 Kidz
    3rd Place - Ana Gomez - $135 Gift Certificate to Rockatar
    4th Place - Edward Holley - Free ASE Club
    5th Place - Pablo Gomez - Free 2019-20 Yearbook

    Parties were held on October 31st for individual students that earned the Ice Cream Party, Kona Ice Party, or Video Game Party. 

    Class parties will held on November 22nd. That will also be a non-uniform day where students can wear their favorite sports team gear. We are very excited that thanks to our generous donors, all of our classes have earned a class party on the 22nd. 

    Here are the final class standings, along with the party they earned: 

    HOMEROOM # STUDENTS AVERAGE Prize Earned Schedule
    KG-Hero*  21  $100.48  30 extra min recess & Bounce House during Recess Time, plus non-uniform day

    Bounce House - 12:25-12:55,  Extra 30 min. Recess - 12:55 -1:25

    02-Price  20  $97.00  30 extra min recess & Bounce House during Recess Time, plus non-uniform day

    Bounce House - 11:55-12:25,  Extra 30 min. Recess - 12:25 -12:55

    04-Ritter  19  $90.58 30 extra min recess & Bounce House during Recess Time, plus non-uniform day Bounce House - 12:55-1:25,
    Extra 30 min. Recess - 1:25 -1:55
    04-Dickens  19  $90.00 30 extra min recess & Bounce House during Recess Time, plus non-uniform day Bounce House - 1:25-1:55,
    Extra 30 min. Recess - 12:55 -1:25
    KG-Dreby  20  $72.35  Popsicle & Slime party, plus non-uniform day Slime Party - 8:30-9:00  Popsicle Party - 12:40 - 12:55
    03-Doremus  18  $72.28 Popsicle & Slime party, plus non-uniform day Slime Party - 9:00-9:30  Popsicle Party - 11:20 - 11:35
    01-Delcastillo  20  $69.85  Popsicle & Slime party, plus non-uniform day Slime Party - 8:30-9:00  Popsicle Party - 11:55 - 12:10
    01-Ward  20  $69.50  Popsicle & Slime party, plus non-uniform day Slime Party - 8:30-9:00  Popsicle Party - 12:00 - 12:15
    04-Lanier  19  $65.32 Popsicle & Slime party, plus non-uniform day Slime Party - 9:30-10:00 Popsicle Party - 12:25 - 12:40
    05-Trupp  24  $64.67  Popsicle & Slime party, plus non-uniform day Slime Party - 9:30-10:00 Popsicle Party - 11:05 - 11:20
    01-Wolfe  20  $57.77  Slime party, plus non-uniform day Slime Party - 8:30-9:00
    KG-Finitz  20  $58.50  Slime party, plus non-uniform day Slime Party - 8:30-9:00
    05-Cucci  22  $48.41 Slime party, plus non-uniform day Slime Party - 9:30-10:00
    04-Reyher  18  $46.11  Slime party, plus non-uniform day Slime Party - 9:30-10:00
    02-De Lucia  19  $45.00  Slime party, plus non-uniform day Slime Party - 9:00-9:30
    01-Horne  20  $44.50  Popsicle party, plus non-uniform day Popsicle Party - 12:10 - 12:25
    03-Oliva  15  $42.00 Popsicle party, plus non-uniform day Popsicle Party - 11:25 - 11:40
    02-Buell  21  $41.19  Popsicle party, plus non-uniform day Popsicle Party - 11:50 - 12:05
    KG-Ward-Ordonez  20  $40.00  Popsicle party, plus non-uniform day Popsicle Party - 12:50 - 1:05
    PK-Brinson  17  $40.00  Popsicle party, plus non-uniform day Popsicle Party - 10:45 - 11:00
    03-Newberry  18  $39.56  Popsicle party, plus non-uniform day Popsicle Party - 11:30 - 11:45
    02-Ona  20  $38.50  Popsicle party, plus non-uniform day Popsicle Party - 11:40-11:55
    KG-Mcalister  8 $37.50 Popsicle party, plus non-uniform day Popsicle Party - 11:45 - 12:00
    03-Neldner  18  $35.28  Popsicle party, plus non-uniform day Popsicle Party - 11:15 - 11:30
    05-Webber  21  $30.45 Popsicle party, plus non-uniform day Popsicle Party - 11:00-11:15
    05-Steel  21  $30.00  Popsicle party, plus non-uniform day Popsicle Party - 10:55-11:10
    05-Nichols  10 $30.00  Popsicle party, plus non-uniform day Popsicle Party - 10:55-11:10
    PK-Minardi  $30.00  Popsicle party, plus non-uniform day Popsicle Party - 10:50-11:00

    Tiger Talk Update 10.23.19

    October 23, 2019

    Thank you to all the families that participated in the Grain and Berry Family Night on Monday and visited our Book Fair!

    We also greatly appreciate all of the students and families that participated in Walk to School Wednesday today! We had 188 participants, which is about a third of our students! Mrs. Trupp's class is the winner of our recess goodies with 13 walkers this morning!

    Congratulations to Chris Lanier, Debonique Grigsby and Heather Tanski, who are being awarded for their commitment to excellence in education! Chris Lanier, fourth grade teacher, has been named Grady's Teacher of the Year. Debonique Grigsby, Art Specialist, has been named Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year. Heather Tanski has been named Instructional Support Person of the Year. Thank you for all of your hard work and dedication to our students!

    Grady Elementary School PTA's Fall Festival FUNdraiser is only 2 days away! Fall Festival takes place this Friday, October 25th, from 5:00 - 7:30 pm! There will be a Maze, Bounce Houses, Games, Balloon Artists, 5th Grade Bake Sale, Slime, Sponsors, Magic Show (5:30 & 6:30 pm) and more Fall Fun!! For full event details, click on Read More.

    Tonight is the deadline for purchasing wristbands, tickets and full pizzas online. After tonight's deadline, wristbands and tickets will only be available for purchase at the Fall Festival and pizza will only be sold by the slice. Regular priced wristbands are $20/wristbands and tickets are still $1/ticket. Please note that adults do not need to purchase Wristbands unless they plan on participating in the Games, Booths, etc...

    **We need your help! Please consider volunteering for a 30 minute shift during the Fall Festival. We know many of you have volunteered at the class level, but we need more volunteers to help the event run smoothly!

    Below are some upcoming important dates:
    10/24 - Red Ribbon Week - Students should wear crazy socks
    10/25 - Red Ribbon Week - Students should wear sunglasses
    10/25 - Deadline to submit Box Tops for October drawing & contest
    10/25 - Book Fair is open from 4:00 - 7:30 pm
    10/25 - Fall Festival from 5:00 - 7:30 pm
    10/31 - Storybook Parade at 8:15 am (Parents are invited to watch the parade)
    04/18/20 - Grady's Auction Night

    Book Fair 10/21-25

    Grady Elementary School's Book Fair is open this week! Book Fair is located at the Kathryn Hance Media Center and is open from Monday - Friday, 7:10 - 2:30 (open 4:00 - 7:30 during the Fall Festival on 10/25). Parents must bring ID and sign in at the office if they would like to accompany their students to the Book Fair. Please note that no children are allowed without parents until after the morning show. For full details about the Book Fair, including the link to shop online, please click on Grady's Fall Book Fair.

    Consider using the new eWallet feature in lieu of sending kids with cash. For more information, please click on eWallet. If you plan on sending cash, it is recommended to place it in an envelope with students names for younger children. Keep in mind that there is an 8.5% sales tax added to all items.

    We still need $6,100 to reach our goal of $13,000 and slime Mr. Tsourakis at the Fall Festival!

    If you have any questions or special instructions, call Mr. Tsourakis at 813-872-5325.


    Storybook Parade 10/31

    Teachers, staff and students are invited to dress in a costume depicting a favorite storybook character and are encouraged to carry the book that depicts their costume on October 31st. Students may change into their uniform after the parade if they’d like to! *Please note that according to school board policy, toy guns, toy swords or weapons of any kind cannot be brought to school. Also, please be aware that very scary costumes are not permitted. For more details, please click on Storybook Parade.

    The parade will begin at 8:15 a.m. The spectator viewing area is standing room only outside the school’s front office, along the car line area. Students will parade out the front office gate and walk along the sidewalk traveling East towards the Media Center.

    Starbucks has generously donated coffee for the storybook parade spectators and the 5th grade will have a donation-based bake sale, so bring a little cash if you would like a little morning treat for yourself!

    The Tiger Trek Ice Cream, Kona Ice, and Video Game parties will also occur on this day for students who earned them through the fundraising! Please note that class parties will be held on November 22nd.

    Grady's Annual Storybook Parade will be on Thursday, October 31st. Teachers, staff and students are invited to dress in a costume depicting a favorite storybook character. Students are encouraged to carry the book that depicts the character they are wearing. 

    The parade will begin at 8:15 a.m. The spectator viewing area is standing room only outside the school’s front office, along the car line area. Students will parade out the front office gate and walk along the sidewalk traveling East towards the Media Center. Starbucks has generously donated coffee for the Storybook Parade for spectators and 5th grade will have a donation based bake sale.  Make sure to bring cash if you would like a little morning treat for yourself! 

    After the parade, school work will resume with planned literature based activities related to the storybook characters. If your child's costume would be uncomfortable to wear all day, he or she may change back into their school uniform. 

    If your child needs help planning something to wear, just send a note to his/her homeroom teacher and assistance will be given. In planning your child's outfit, remember that according to school board policy, toy guns, toy swords or weapons of any kind cannot be brought to school. Also, please be aware that very scary costumes are not permitted. 

     

    Tiger Talk Update 10.14.19

    October 14, 2019

    We have some very fun events coming up the next few weeks at Grady Elementary! 
     
    Grady Elementary School PTA's Fall Festival FUNdraiser is coming up on October 25, 2019 from 5:00 - 7:30 pm! There will be a Maze, Bounce Houses, Games, Balloon Artists, 5th Grade Bake Sale, Slime, Sponsors, Magic Show (5:30 & 6:30 pm) and more Fall Fun!! For full event details, please click on Fall Festival FUNdraiser
     
    Buy Wristbands in advance for $10 each by Monday, October 21st. Wristbands purchased the night of the event will cost $20 per wristband. All Wristbands include the Bounce Houses, Booths, Maze, Games and Magic Show. Please note that adults do not need to purchase Wristbands unless they plan on participating in the Games, Booths, etc...

    Advanced purchased wristbands & tickets will be available for PICKUP by an adult at the following dates/times: 

      • 10/23: Before school on Walk-to-School Wednesday (at the Side Walk Stomper Hub on the corner of Grady/Morrison) 
      • 10/25: Morning drop-off in front of school 
      • 10/25: After School at Park-and-Walk 
      • Pickup at the PTA table at the Fall Festival 
    To purchase Advanced Wristbands and Tickets for food/drinks, click here. Please use the name of your oldest child only. You will also be able to pre-order whole pizzas online. We will email a separate link when it is available.  
     

    We need volunteers to make the event a success. If you would like to volunteer to help with this year’s Fall Festival please click here.

     
    Below are some upcoming important dates:
    • 10/18 - PTA School of Excellence Survey due
    • 10/21 - 10/25 - Book Fair from 7:30 - 2:30 pm daily (open 4:00 - 7:30 on 10/21 & 10/25)  
    • 10/21 - Family Night at Grain and Berry from 2:00 - 7:00 pm
    • 10/23 - Walk to School Wednesday & pick up your Fall Festival Wristbands
    • 10/25 - Deadline to submit Box Tops for October drawing & contest
    • 10/25 - Fall Festival from 5:00 - 7:30 pm
    • 10/31 - Storybook Parade
    • 04/18/20 - Grady's Auction Night
    School of Excellence Survey
     
    All parents should have received a letter regarding the National PTA School of Excellence program with a 20 questions survey regarding the Grady PTA. Please fill it out the survey and return it to your student's homeroom teacher by Friday, October 18th. 
     
    Book Fair 10/21-25
     
    Grady Elementary School's Book Fair is coming up on October 21 - 25th at the Kathryn Hance Media Center. Book Fair is open from Monday - Friday, 7:10 - 2:30 (open 4:00 - 7:30 during Grain & Berry Family Night on 10/21 & Fall Festival on 10/25). Parents must bring ID and sign in at the office if they would like to accompany their students to the Book Fair. Please note that no children are allowed without parents until after the morning show. For full details about the Book Fair, including the link to shop online, please click on Grady's Fall Book Fair
     

    Consider using the new eWallet feature in lieu of sending kids with cash. For more information, please click on eWallet. If you plan on sending cash, it is recommended to place it in an envelope with students names for younger children. Keep in mind that there is an 8.5% sales tax added to all items. 

    We need your help to make it an epic adventure! Please sign up to volunteer for the Book Fair: Click Here to Volunteer.

    If you have any questions or special instructions, call Mr. Tsourakis at 813-872-5325.

     
    Family Night at Grain & Berry 10/21

    Monday, October 21st from 2:00 - 7:00 pm, bring your family out to Grain & Berry located at 1155 S Dale Mabry Hwy for Family Night. Join us right after pickup - it is walking distance from the school or you can drive over. 

    Please mention that you are with Grady Elementary. To view their full menu, go to www.grainandberry.com.

     
    Walk to School Wednesday 10/23

    We have added a Walk to School Wednesday on October 23rd to allow parents to pick up advanced purchase Fall Festival Wristbands and Tickets! Walk to School Wednesday will continue to occur on a monthly basis, the first Wednesday of each month. 

    Students can walk, bike or scooter to school and check in with volunteers on the corner of Grady and Morrison Ave (right by the crosswalk) from 7:05 - 7:35 am. Students will be able to pick up a sticker on their way to their classroom and parents will be able to pick up advanced purchase Fall Festival Wristbands and Tickets. The class with the most walkers will earn goodies for recess!

    Volunteers are needed from 7:00 - 7:40 am to help check in our students and hand out the Advanced purchase Fall Festival Wristbands and Tickets. Please click on Walk to School Wednesday Volunteer to sign up. 

    For more details about our Walk to School Wednesday program, please click on Walk to School Wednesdays
     
    Box Tops
     
    Keep collecting Box Tops! For every 5 Box Tops submitted, students will obtain 1 entry into the monthly drawing. In October, 3 students will win a pumpkin full of Halloween goodies and the class that turns in the most Box Tops in October will win an ice cream sundae party! Box Tops must be turned in by October 25th. For more information, please click Grady Box Tops. 
    You can submit Box Tops 3 ways: 
    1. Through the Box Top$ for Education app. Send a screenshot of your current uploaded box top amounts in your app to [email protected] to be eligible for prizes. 
    2. Clip Box Tops and turn in on the form sent home or in a Ziploc Bag. Make sure to include your child's name and teacher on the form/ziploc bag. Please insure that you are sending unexpired Box Tops and not the "Skip the Clip" logos. Items with the "Skip the Clip" logo should be submitted through the Box Top$ for Education App. 
    3. Send unscanned receipts to your teacher with your child's name written on the back. 
    PTA Membership
    Thank you to all of the families that have already signed up to join the Grady PTA. We have 360 members signed up, but still need 90 more to reach our goal of 450 members. You can still sign up/renew your PTA membership online by clicking PTA Membership.  Membership must be renewed annually. Membership is only $6 for 1 person or $10 for 2 people. Anyone can join the PTA: Parents, Grandparents, Children (6th - 12th grade), Teachers, Faculty, Staff and Community Members. High membership participation provides PTA with strength in numbers when advocating for our students and also allows us to participate in PTA programs such as Reflections Art.   
     
    PTA Meetings
    The next PTA meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 12th from 8:00 - 9:00 am in the Teachers' Lounge. The meeting is open to anyone interested in learning more about the PTA and upcoming events. If you cannot attend and would like to review the prior meeting minutes, please visit PTA Board Meetings. We have also listed some of the programs that 2019-2020 PTA Fundraisers will help fund. 
     
    Tiger Business and Family Partners
    Thank you to all of our Tiger partners! Our Tiger partners greatly assist us in enhancing educational opportunities and experiences for Grady students in four main areas: make a difference in our classrooms by funding programs; deliver PTA events to our students, teachers, and families; support Grady school events by providing volunteers and/or covering expenses; and enhance Grady Elementary through health and safety projects. To learn more about Tiger Family and Business Partnerships, please click hereTiger Partnership Program. 
     
    Welcome to our newest Green (Cub) level Tiger Partner, The Knittle Family! 
     
    Our 2019-20 Tiger Business Partners are

    Our 2019-20 Family Sponsors are

    • Leader of the Pack level partner: Drs. Siviero & Heather Agazzi
    • Tiger Bronze partners: Melanie Edwards Fowler; The Gibbs Family; The House Family; and The Zysk Family
    • Red (Bengal) level partners: Angi Comas; The Christopher Family; The Du Family; The Fitzgerald Family; The Gomez Family; The Jacobs Family - Jennifer, Jeremy, Welles & Briggs; The Ledford Family; The Lueckeman Family; The Roush Family; and The Schentrup Family
    • Yellow (Cougar) level partners: John Paul and Rosemarie Getting; The Neward Family; Khue and NamSon Nguyen Family; and Ken Vu
    • Green (Cub) level partner: The Knittle Family

    Got used markers? ColorCycle them at Grady

    What is Crayola ColorCycle? Crayola’s latest sustainability initiative designed to repurpose markers, highlighters and dry erase markers. All marker brands are accepted. 

    How do I help? Collect markers and drop them off in the front office or your student can give them to our art teacher, Debonique Grigsby. 

    For more information, click on ColorCycle.

    Grady Elementary School Book Fair

    Oct. 21 - Oct. 25

    Our Scholastic Book Fair is a great way to get kids excited about reading and to buy some great reads! 

    The Book Fair takes place in the Media Center and is open from Monday - Friday, 7:30 - 2:30 (open 2:30 - 7:00 during Grain & Berry Family Night on 10/21 & 4:00 - 7:30 pm for Fall Festival on 10/25). No children are allowed without parents until after the morning show.

    We need your help to make it an epic adventure! Please sign-up to volunteer for the Book Fair: Click Here to Volunteer

    Interactive Book Fair Flyer: Click Here

    Consider using the new eWallet feature in lieu of sending kids with cash. For more information, please click on eWallet. If you plan on sending cash, it is recommended to place cash in an envelope with students names for younger children. Keep in mind that there is an 8.5% sales tax added to all items. 

    If you are unable to shop in person, click on Shop Online to access our online book fair. 

    If you have any questions or special instructions, call Mr. Tsourakis at 813-872-5325.

    Thank you for supporting our school Book Fair and developing a love of reading in your child!

    We are very excited to share changes and new initiatives to keep our students safe and healthy at Grady Elementary this year. 
     
    New Crossing Guard
     
    Grady Elementary finally has a dedicated Crossing Guard! Janet is located at the crosswalk on Grady Ave and Morrison Ave and is present during both morning drop off and afternoon pickup.  
     
    New Stop Signs on Morrison Ave
     
    Over the weekend, 2 new stop signs were installed on Morrison Ave at the intersection with Grady Ave. That intersection is now a 3-way stop and all cars must come to a complete stop. 
     
     
     
    Walk to School Wednesday
     
    Grady Elementary's first Walk to School Wednesday will take place tomorrow, October 2nd from 7:00 am - 7:35 am. We will have one volunteer on site early to check in 5th grade Patrols who walk to school. Students participating in Walk to School Wednesday can wear their Tiger Trek spirit shirts tomorrow.
     
    Walk to School Wednesday is a new PTA partnership with Sidewalk Stompers to improve pedestrian safety and increase the number of children walking to school. The first Wednesday of every month, students are encouraged to walk (or bike or scooter) to school. For more details, please click on Walk to School Wednesday Flyer
     
    Walkers/bikers should check in with volunteers on the corner of Grady and Morrison Ave on their way into school. We are still looking for a couple more volunteers to check in our students. Please click on Walk To School Wednesday Volunteers to sign up. 
     
    Pedestrian Safety Flags
     
    We now have bright orange pedestrian safety flags by the Grady/Morrison Ave. crosswalks to provide visibility to pedestrians when there is no crossing guard in the intersection. In addition, having the bright colored flags at both ends of the crosswalk makes the crosswalk stand out more. 
    Students should pick up an orange safety flag when they are ready to cross the road. They need to look both ways and insure that traffic has stopped. When it is safe to cross, they should hold the flag high, cross the street, and leave the flag in the bucket on the other side. 
     
    New Tiger Crossing Signs
     
    There are new Tiger Crossing yard signs in front of our school to remind drivers to slow down and watch out for children crossing. 
     
    New Track on Campus 
     
    PTA’s main fundraising goal is to build a track at Grady Elementary. The track is a 2 year project that will cost at least $70,000 as we will be purchasing a higher quality/safer track top. To view the 3D rendering, please click on Grady Track
     
    If you have any questions about Walk to School Wednesday or any other health and safety initiatives, please email [email protected]

    3D rendering of our Proposed Grady Track!!

    Here is a 3D renedering of our proposed new track at Grady Elementary. This is a 2 year fundraising project. Our 2 year goal is $70,000 for our new track. Tiger Track is our first fundraising event this year. 

    For more information on Tiger Trek, please click here!

    Grady PTA thanks Triage Consignment Boutique for being a Siberian Level Tiger Partner!  Triage Consignment Boutique donated $2,000.00 to benefit our teachers and students!

    Please check out their website at Triage Consignment Boutique.

    Triage Consigment Boutique is located at 4109 Henderson BlvdTampa, FL 33629 and their phone number is (813) 805-7600. Triage Consignment Boutique is a consignment store focusing on Ladies Designer Apparel.  We have been serving South Tampa with the Highest Quality Service and Merchandise since 1980.

    If you visit Triage Consignment Boutique, please let them know how much you appreciate them sponsoring our school.

    Tiger Talk Update 09.13.19

    September 13, 2019

    As a reminder, we had a schedule change due to Hurricane Dorian makeup days. Monday dismissal will now be at regular time (1:55 pm) through the end of December. The next early release Monday will be on January 13th. Monday clubs are in the process of being moved to 2:15 - 3:15 pm. Please note that there are no ASE Clubs next week, September 16 - 20th due to parent conferences, but Chorus will still be held on Monday, September 16th. Rehearsal will go from 2:15 - 3:15 pm and students will be dismissed from the front of the school. 
     
    Our Guidance Counselor, Mrs. Harris, has shared a presentation in reference to bullying. Please click on Information Regarding Bullying to view the pdf version. You can also find it as a link in Guidance Corner, along with other important documents from Mrs. Harris. 
     
     
    Below are some upcoming important dates:
    • 9/16 - Chorus Rehearsal will still be held from 2:15 - 3:15 pm
    • 9/16 - 9/20 - Conference Week - No ASE Clubs all week
    • 9/20 - Last day to turn in donations in order to have your Tiger Trek shirt for the event
    • 9/23 - Chick-fil-A Art Exhibit and Family Night from 4:00 - 7:00 pm
    • 9/27 - Tiger Trek Fundraiser and Walk-a-thon from 8:00 - 10:00 am
    • 9/30 - Last day to turn in Tiger Trek donations to qualify for prizes
    • 10/02 - Girls on the Run Club begins
    • 10/02 - Walk to School Wednesday
    • 04/18/20 - Grady's Auction Night
    Volunteer Opportunities
     
    We need volunteers for our Chick-fil-A Art Exhibit and Family Night and our Tiger Trek FundraiserTo view all PTA volunteer opportunities, please click on Volunteer. This link will always be updated with our open volunteer opportunities. 

    To volunteer at school in any capacity, you must complete the background check firstBackground Check Application for Volunteers. The application must be renewed on an annual basis. Click on the word “Apply” on the left side of the page and fill out the forms (you will need your driver's license number). When you do volunteer at Grady, make sure you bring your driver’s license and sign into the school’s computer and log your hours. 
     

    Tiger Trek

    We are only 15 days away from Tiger Trek on September 27th! Tiger Trek is our biggest Fall Fundraiser where all proceeds directly benefit our school and students! This year, we are raising funds to build a track on campus! For full details, click on Tiger Trek

    September 20th is the last day to turn in donations to have your Tiger Trek shirt in time to wear on September 27th. Students will still have the chance to turn in donations to win amazing individual and class prizes through September 30th. Cash and checks can be submitted to your teacher in the blue Tiger Trek envelope and online donations can be completed at https://gradytigers.org/donate-tt. Use your student's school student id number as their code.

    We need volunteers to make the day a success. Please volunteer for a 30 minute shift by clicking on Tiger Trek Volunteers

     
    Box Tops
     
    Please help us make it another great box top year!  We have great incentives and prizes this year for Box Tops. The class with the most box tops by September 30th will win a pizza party and students will be entered to win individual prizes. For more information, please click Grady Box Tops.
     
    You can submit Box Tops 3 ways: 
    1. Through the Box Top$ for Education app. Send a screenshot of your current uploaded box top amounts in your app to [email protected] to be eligible for prizes. 
    2. Clip Box Tops and turn in on the form sent home or in a Ziploc Bag. Make sure to include your child's name and teacher on the form/ziploc bag.
    3. Send unscanned receipts to your teacher with your child's name written on the back. 
    PTA Membership
    Thank you to all of the families that have already signed up to join the Grady PTA. We have 329 members signed up, but still need 121 more to reach our goal of 450 members. You can still sign up/renew your PTA membership online by clicking PTA Membership. Membership must be renewed annually. Membership is only $6 for 1 person or $10 for 2 people. Anyone can join the PTA: Parents, Grandparents, Children (6th - 12th grade), Teachers, Faculty, Staff and Community Members. High membership participation provides PTA with strength in numbers when advocating for our students and also allows us to participate in PTA programs such as Reflections Art.   
     
    Tiger Business and Family Partners
    Thank you to all of our Tiger partners! Our Tiger partners greatly assist us in enhancing educational opportunities and experiences for Grady students in four main areas: make a difference in our classrooms by funding programs; deliver PTA events to our students, teachers, and families; support Grady school events by providing volunteers and/or covering expenses; and enhance Grady Elementary through health and safety projects. To learn more about Tiger Family and Business Partnerships, please click hereTiger Partnership Program. Please note that we are still accepting sponsors for the 2019-20 school year, although the deadline to be included on the Tiger Trek shirt has already passed. 
     
    Welcome to our newest sponsors: Butterfly Pharmacy, The Digital Bell. and The House Family!

    Our 2019-20 Tiger Business Partners are

    Our 2019-20 Family Sponsors are

    • Leader of the Pack level partner: Drs. Siviero & Heather Agazzi
    • Tiger Bronze partners: Melanie Edwards Fowler; The Gibbs Family; The House Family; and The Zysk Family
    • Red (Bengal) level partners: The Christopher Family; The Du Family; The Fitzgerald Family; The Gomez Family; The Jacobs Family - Jennifer, Jeremy, Welles & Briggs; The Ledford Family; The Lueckeman Family; The Roush Family; and The Schentrup Family
    • Yellow (Cougar) level partners: John Paul and Rosemarie Getting; The Neward Family; Khue and NamSon Nguyen Family; and Ken Vu


    Got used markers? ColorCycle them at Grady

    What is Crayola ColorCycle? Crayola’s latest sustainability initiative designed to repurpose markers, highlighters and dry erase markers. All marker brands are accepted. 

    How do I help? Collect markers and drop them off in the front office or your student can give them to our art teacher, Debonique Grigsby. 

    For more information, click on ColorCycle.

    Due to the missed school day for Hurricane Dorian, Hillsborough County Public Schools made an important change to our schedule. The following Mondays will become full school days (releasing at 1:55 pm): September 16, September 23, September 30, and October 7th. This means that our next early release date will be on Monday, January 13th. 
     
    We will be contacting our vendors to change our club hours for the affected Mondays. If your student is enrolled in a Monday club, you will be receiving a separate email confirming the change. 
     
    Also, please note that there are no ASE Clubs next week, September 16 - 20th due to parent conferences. 

    Tiger Talk Update 09.06.19

    September 6, 2019

    Thanks to all of the grandparents and grandfriends that joined us for Grandparents' Breakfast! A very special thank you to our staff and volunteers that made our breakfasts possible! 
     
    If you have any pictures from Grandparents' breakfast or Skate Night that you would like included in the yearbook or on the website, please email them to [email protected] by September 30th.  
     
    Below are some upcoming important dates:
    • 9/09 - Tiger Trot and Chorus Rehearsals begin
    • 9/10 - PTA Board Meeting in the Teacher's Lounge at 8:00 am - Any parents interested in volunteering with the PTA are welcome to attend 
    • 9/11 - Patriot's Day - Wear red, white & blue
    • 9/23 - Chick-fil-A Art Exhibit and Family Night from 4:00 - 7:00 pm
    • 9/27 - Tiger Trek Fundraiser and Walk-a-thon from 7:45 - 10:15 am
    • 10/02 - Girls on the Run Club begins
    • 10/02 - Walk to School Wednesday
    • 04/18/20 - Grady's Auction Night

     

    PTA Sponsorship
    Thank you to all of our Tiger partners! Our Tiger partners greatly assist us in enhancing educational opportunities and experiences for Grady students in four main areas: make a difference in our classrooms by funding programs; deliver PTA events to our students, teachers, and families; support Grady school events by providing volunteers and/or covering expenses; and enhance Grady Elementary through health and safety projects. To learn more about Tiger Family and Business Partnerships, please click hereTiger Partnership Program. Please note that we are still accepting sponsors for the 2019-20 school year, although the deadline to be included on the Tiger Trek shirt has already passed. 

    Our 2019-20 Tiger Business Partners are

    Our 2019-20 Family Sponsors are

    • Leader of the Pack level partner: Drs. Siviero & Heather Agazzi
    • Tiger Bronze partners: Melanie Edwards Fowler; The Gibbs Family; and The Zysk Family
    • Red (Bengal) level partners: The Christopher Family; The Du Family; The Fitzgerald Family; The Gomez Family; The Jacobs Family - Jennifer, Jeremy, Welles & Briggs; The Ledford Family; The Lueckeman Family; The Roush Family; and The Schentrup Family
    • Yellow (Cougar) level partners: John Paul and Rosemarie Getting; The Neward Family; Khue and NamSon Nguyen Family; and Ken Vu

    Volunteer Opportunities
     
    To view the current PTA volunteer opportunities, please click on Volunteer.

    To volunteer at school in any capacity, you must complete the background check firstBackground Check Application for Volunteers. The application must be renewed on an annual basis. Click on the word “Apply” on the left side of the page and fill out the forms (you will need your driver's license number). When you do volunteer at Grady, make sure you bring your driver’s license and sign into the school’s computer and log your hours. 
     
    Box Tops
     
    Please help us make it another great box top year!  We have great incentives and prizes this year for Box Tops. The class with the most box tops by September 30th will win a pizza party and students will be entered to win individual prizes. For more information, please click Grady Box Tops.
     
    You can submit Box Tops 3 ways: 
    1. Through the Box Top$ for Education app. Send a screenshot of your current uploaded box top amounts in your app to [email protected] to be eligible for prizes. 
    2. Clip Box Tops and turn in on the form sent home or in a Ziploc Bag. Make sure to include your child's name and teacher on the form/ziploc bag.
    3. Send unscanned receipts to your teacher with your child's name written on the back. 
     
    PTA Membership
    Thank you to all of the families that have already signed up to join the Grady PTA. You can still sign up/renew your PTA membership online by clicking PTA Membership. Membership must be renewed annually. Membership is only $6 for 1 person or $10 for 2 people. Anyone can join the PTA: Parents, Grandparents, Children (6th - 12th grade), Teachers, Faculty, Staff and Community Members. High membership participation provides PTA with strength in numbers when advocating for our students and also allows us to participate in PTA programs such as Reflections Art.   

    Got used markers? ColorCycle them at Grady

    What is Crayola ColorCycle? Crayola’s latest sustainability initiative designed to repurpose markers, highlighters and dry erase markers. All marker brands are accepted. 

    How do I help? Collect markers and drop them off in the front office or your student can give them to our art teacher, Debonique Grigsby. 

    For more information, click on ColorCycle.

    Grady Elementary’s Chorus is open to all students in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade. To fill out the registration form for your student(s), please click on Grady Chorus Registration or return the completed paper form. 

    Rehearsals are held on Monday afternoons, right after school, for one hour. Rehearsals begin on September 9th. We will have rehearsals on all of these Mondays: September 9, 16, 23, 30, October 7, 14*, 21*, 28*, November 4*, 18*, December 2 *, 9* (Concert 12th), 16*, January 13, 27, February 3, 17, 24, March 9 (Concert 12th). All rehearsals on Early Release Days will dismiss from the front of the school at 2:15. On Normal Release Mondays (those with an *), dismissal will be at 3:15.

    Grady’s uniform of a Navy Top and Khaki Bottoms will also be the Chorus Uniform.

    We will have 2 concerts this school year, both at 6 p.m. Grady’s Winter Concert will be on Thursday, December 12th, 2019. Grady’s Spring Concert will be on Thursday, March 12th, 2020.

    Box Top$ for Education

    August 19, 2019 - September 19, 2019

    For collection of box tops for Grady Elementary, this year we are using the app Box Top$ for Education. With this app, you can scan in your receipts for General Mills products and instantly add them to Grady Elementary. 

    For More Info Click this link: http://gradytigers.org/box-tops

    Registration for fall after school enrichment clubs are open now and will close on August 28th.  Clubs will begin on September 3, 2019 and end on December 6, 2019.  There will be no Monday clubs on November 11 as it is a non-student day.  There will be no clubs Monday through Friday the week of conferences (September 16 through 20) and Thanksgiving Week (November 25 through 29).

    To review a complete list of our fall club offerings, please click on List of Clubs.  Registration and payment are on a first-come, first-serve basis.  To register and pay online, click on ASE Club Signup.  You may register one student for multiple clubs at the same time, but you must complete a separate registration for each student.  

    Grady Elementary's Open House is scheduled for Friday, August 9th from 8:00 - 10:00 am. 

    All Parents, Students, Faculty and Staff will meet in the cafeteria at 8:00 am. 

    During Open House, you can sign up for PTA; spirit shirts and Teamworks uniform shirts will be on display; YMCA after school care information will be available; and free uniforms and uniform swap are available (while supplies last). There will also be a PTA General Meeting to approve meeting minutes and the 2019-20 budget. To view the documents, click on PTA Meeting Minutes and PTA 2019-20 Budget.  

    Tentative Schedule:

    8:00 - 8:25 am - Meet in the Cafeteria (PTA and Staff Introductions)

    8:25 - 9:00 am - 1st session in classrooms

    9:00 - 9:30 am - 2nd session in classrooms

    9:00 - 10:00 am - Popsicles with the PTA in the Cafeteria for new students and their families

    Grady Elementary is very excited to welcome our new Assistant Principal, Ann-Marie Gonzalez! 

    About Assistant Principal Gonzalez

    I am a native Floridian born and raised in Tampa. I received my Elementary Education degree from USF and my Master's in Educational Leadership from Saint Leo University.  I recently celebrated 25 years with the school district, during my tenure I have had the pleasure of working in various roles such as teacher, Reading Coach, District Resource Teacher and Assistant Principal.  As a  Reading Coach with the district I spent several years at Grady and am happy to be returning home.

    On a personal note I am the proud mom of two amazing children, Ansley 13 and Joseph 11.  I enjoy being outdoors,  staying active and spending time with my family.  

     

    Congratulations to Grady Elementary for earning an "A" grade from the Florida Department of Education for the 11th year in a row! This is a wonderful achievement for our Grady students, teachers, administrators and parents.  

    ** All volunteers must fill out a Hillsborough County Volunteer Form on the Hillsborough County Schools website to volunteer at Grady Elementary in any capacity. A new form must be submitted for the 2019/2020 school year **

    To access the Hillsborough County Volunteer Form, please click here. Once the page opens, click the green "APPLY" button located on the left hand side and complete the form. 

    If you are returning as a volunteer from last year, you can reactivate last year’s volunteer application. *Please note that all volunteers need to re-apply for screening each year. 

    Volunteers are needed on Thursday, July 18th at 12:00 pm to sort the school uniforms that were donated by sizes. The donated uniforms will be available for families to pick up at Open House on August 9th. 

    Please email Christine Diaz if you are able to volunteer. Her email is [email protected]

    Please join the Grady Dads Club to help beautify and clean up our school on Saturday, July 13th from 9 am - 12 pm. We would greatly appreciate it if you could bring rakes, trash bags and other tools to clean the yard. 

    Principal Campbell will be on-site to assist the volunteers and the PTA will be providing cold water and Gatorade. 

    Please email [email protected] if you are able to participate in the Dads Club School Cleanup. Thank you for keeping Grady looking great! 

    We are happy to announce that we are offering the SchoolKidz, School Supply Kit Program for the 2019-20 school year to make your back to school shopping quick and easy! SchoolKidz offers prepackaged school supply kits filled with the supplies requested per grade level (excluding backpack and nap mat). The kits will arrive to Grady with each student’s name and grade level prior to the first day of school. They will be distributed in the students' classroom during open house.

    Schoolkidz Kits must be ordered prior to June 14, 2019. To order your kit, please go to www.shopttkits.com and enter account #36155. You will then be prompted to select the grade level your child will be entering in August 2019. The shipping is already set to Grady Elementary School and there is no additional fee for taxes or shipping to the school.

    Please note that the kits only include the supplies listed under components/description, but you can add items for your student including a backpack, lunch box, nap mat, water bottles and food jars. You can also add donation items for your child's class including Kleenex, disinfecting wipes, hand sanitizer, copy paper and sandwich bags to your order. 

    To see the full list of supplies included with each kit, please click on: Schoolkidz supplies.

    Please contact Jamie Babb with any questions at  [email protected].

    We will have the detailed school supply lists posted online by next week. 

    We had an amazing week honoring our school's hard working, dedicated teachers and their outstanding support staff during Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week! Thank you to all of the families that brought snacks, school supplies, flowers, fan mail and special gifts for our Teachers & Staff! Our teachers and staff felt very appreciated by all of our families!
     
    Thank you to Jamie Babb and Kate Beauregard for working tirelessly to plan an amazing week for our teachers & staff!  Our PTA treated our teachers and staff to star treatment with: VIP breakfast, massages and popsicles on Monday, Taco Tuesday lunch and swag bags, catered lunch by Maggianos on Wednesday, breakfast and gourmet popcorn on Thursday, and catered lunch by the Deviled Pig and a Night out at the Movies on Friday. To view pictures of the incredible week, please click on Teacher & Staff Appreciation 2019

    Thank you to our Tiger Teachers' Appreciation Luncheon" Presenting Sponsor State Farm Agent Jim Corwell. Please check out his website at State Farm - Jim Corwell. 

    Special thank you to all of the amazing companies that donated food and items to make our Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week so special! We are so appreciative for their generosity and support. Click on the company names to view their websites. 
     
    Outback Steakhouse - 20 gift cards - 3403 Henderson Blvd
    Tampa Yard Greetings - yard sign 
    Starbucks - coffee -1300 S Dale Mabry Hwy
    The Hyppo - popsicles - 702 S Village Cir
    Cinebistro - movie vouchers -1609 W Swann Ave
    Taco Bus - Tuesday lunch
    Moe’s - chips, queso and salsa - 3810 W Neptune St
    Maggiano's Italian Restaurant - Wednesday lunch - 203 Westshore Plz
    Cheesecake Factory - red velvet cheesecake - 2223 N West Shore Blvd
    18 Bagels Co. - bagels & cream cheese -111 S Dale Mabry Hwy
    Panera - pastries - 112 South Westshore Blvd.
    Soho Juice Company - juice - 3120 West Bay to Bay Blvd.
    Edible Arrangements - 2 fruit trays -1305 S Dale Mabry Hwy
    Chef Inspired Popcorn - popcorn - 3204 B W Bay To Bay Blvd
    Gigi’s Cupcakes - mini cupcakes - 3810 W Neptune St
    Deviled Pig - Friday Lunch - 3307 S Dale Mabry Hwy
    Tomorrow, Tuesday, May 14th is our PTA General Assembly Meeting at 8:00 am in the Teacher's Lounge to vote in our 2019-20 PTA Officers. 
    We still have open positions on the board for Committee coordinators and Committee members for the 2019-20 school year. If you are interested in volunteering with the PTA, please join us at our PTA Board Meeting on May 14th at 8:15 am in the teacher's lounge or send an email to [email protected] with your interests. 
     
    The officers nominated for the 2019-20 school year are: 
    1.  President –Norma Maiz   
    2.  VP of Membership - Jahaira Quintana
    3.  VP of Communication – Laura Lauer
    4.  VP of Sponsorship – Lauren Fitzgerald 
    5.  VP of Fundraising/Ways and Means – Kat Cowley 
    6.  VP of Events – Kate Nelson 
    7.  VP of Volunteer Relations – Brad Smith 
    8.  VP of Special Projects – Jessica Schentrup
    9. VP of Health and Safety – Jannine Neward
    10. VP of Finance  –  Clarissa Medeiros
    11. Treasurer –  Heather Moniz
    12. Secretary – Kate Beauregard
    13. Corresponding Secretary – Deanna House

     

    We still need Committee Coordinators for the following:

    • Yearbook Committee Coordinator- We do have several committee members that are available to take photos and create some event pages for the Yearbook
    • After School Enrichment Club Committee Assistant - Amy Harris is coordinating, but we are missing an ASE Assistant that assists the ASE in day to day interactions with volunteers and vendors. The ASE Assistant is required to be on campus during the first 2 weeks of clubs in each session. There are volunteers for attendance and dismissal
    • Auction Committee Coordinator - We already have a committee in place and Kat Cowley will support the coordinator
    • Reflections Art Committee Coordinator
    • 5th Grade Parent - Organizes the events specific to 5th grade including fundraisers and the 5th grade banquet
    • Family Nights Coordinator 
    • Welcoming Committee Coordinator – Organizes school uniform collection and distribution, gives school tours and organizes activities to make new parents feel welcome.
    • Formalities or Hospitality Committee Coordinator 
    • Dad’s Club Coordinator – Organizes clean-up day before school starts, schedule dad’s night out gathering and any events to get more men involved in school.

    If you are interested in any of these roles or would like to volunteer with the PTA, please join us at our PTA Board Meeting on May 14th at 8:15 am or email [email protected] with your interests.   
    We are excited to announce that Mike Campbell has been appointed as Grady's next Principal! Mr. Campbell is currently serving as the Assistant Principal at Grady. 
     
    Mike Campbell grew up in Tampa. He attended Jesuit High School and received his Early Childhood/Elementary degree from Furman University and his Masters in Educational Leadership from NOVA Southeastern University. He taught for 11 years at Mort and Westchase Elementary before being appointed Assistant Principal at Grady Elementary in 2011. He also coached basketball for 11 years at Gaither High School.  

    Purchase your yearbook today! Today, April 30th, is the last day to order a yearbook online and guarantee that your student will receive their yearbook for Yearbook Signing Day, which is held the week of May 20th. 


    Please click on Purchase Yearbook to buy online. Yearbooks cost $25 for softcover and $30 for hardcover. 


    After online sales close tonight, yearbooks will only be available on a first come first serve basis in the school office. We will only accept cash and checks made out to the Grady Elementary PTA. 

    Tiger Talk Update 4.17.19

    April 17, 2019

    There is no school this Friday, April 19th due to Good Friday. We hope everyone enjoys the 3 day weekend! 

    Thank you very much to the Ortiz Family for donating a new wheelchair to the Grady Elementary Clinic! We really appreciate your generosity! 

    Congratulations to Norma Maiz for winning the Hillsborough County PTA Volunteer of the Year! We are so happy that they recognized your hard work and amazing dedication to our school! Grady Elementary also won awards for Volunteer Hours, Increased Membership and Golden Participation for parent and grandparent involvement in the school. To view photos from the Awards Ceremony, please click on PTA Awards Ceremony

    The new Hillsborough County Student Calendar is now available for the 2019-2020 school year. Click on 2019-20 Student Calendar to view. Please make note that there is a change to Monday Early Release Days. Students will have one-hour early release every Monday with the following exceptions: Oct 14, Oct 21, Oct 28, Nov 4, Nov 18, Dec 2, Dec 9 and Dec 16, 2019. 

    Below are some upcoming important dates:

    4/19 - Good Friday - NO SCHOOL

    4/25 - Cyber Security 101 Presentation at Mitchell Elementary

    5/01 - Deadline to Purchase Yearbooks for Yearbook Signing Day

    5/06 - 5/10 - Teacher Appreciation Week

    5/07 - Coleman Middle School's Incoming 6th Grade Parent Meeting

    5/14 - PTA General Assembly Meeting at 8:00 am 

    5/20 - 5/24 - Spirit Week

    5/27 - Memorial Day - NO SCHOOL

    5/28 - Pre-K and 5th Grade Awards Ceremony

    5/29 - K-4th Awards Ceremony

    5/31 - Last Day of School & 5th Grade Clap Out 

    Yearbook 

    Purchase your yearbook today! May 1st is the deadline to guarantee a yearbook for Yearbook Signing day. Please click on Purchase Yearbook to buy online. Yearbooks cost $25 for softcover and $30 for hardcover. 

     

    Cyber Security 101 at Mitchell Elementary

    Mitchell Elementary is hosting a Cyber Safety 101 presentation on Thursday, April 25th from 6:00 - 7:00 pm. The presentation will be held in the Mitchell Elementary Cafeteria. It is recommended for parents of students in grades 4 & 5, but is open to all parents. Troy Suarez, supervisor of instructional technology for K-12 education will be at Mitchell to highlight ways to keep your children safe on the internet. For more information, please click on Cyber Security

     

    Coleman Middle's Incoming 6th Grade Parent Meeting

    Coleman Middle School is hosting their annual Incoming 6th Grade Parent meeting on Tuesday, May 7th from 6:00 - 7:00 pm in the Coleman Cafeteria. Please click on Coleman for more details. 

     

    Summer Art Camp at Grady

    Click on Grady Art Camp to learn about the 3 different week long themed art camps hosted by Debonique Grigsby. Both half and full day camps are available. Grady parents can secure their child's spot with a camp deposit of only $25.  Space is limited as each session will be capped at only 20 campers. Camp will be open to Pre-K through 5th grade students in the South Tampa area. Last year our camps filled up in only 3 weeks! 

     

    South Tampa Basketball Camp

    Enrollment is now open for the South Tampa Basketball Camp hosted at Grady Elementary by our Guidance Counselor, Mrs. Harris. Click on South Tampa Basketball Camp to learn more and find the enrollment forms. The camp is open to girls and boys grades 1st-9th. Camps run from Monday - Thursday, 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. There are 3 week long sessions from June 10 - 27th. 

     

    Got used markers? ColorCycle them at Grady

    What is Crayola ColorCycle? Crayola’s latest sustainability initiative designed to repurpose markers, highlighters and dry erase markers. All marker brands are accepted. 

    How do I help? Collect markers and drop them off in the front office or your student can give them to our art teacher, Debonique Grigsby. 

    For more information, click on ColorCycle.

    One of PTA's main goals is to advocate for our children. Here's a quick update on a couple of important subjects that our parents have expressed interest in.

    Several weeks ago, we sent a link to a Florida PTA survey concerning Senate Bill 7030 (School Safety and Security) and many parents requested that we provide an update when the bill goes to vote. SB 7030 is set for final debate this Wednesday (4/17) and vote in the Senate on Thursday (4/18). Now is the time to call or email your Florida Senators to share your thoughts on the bill.  This bill contains a provision that would amend last year's Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act; it permits full-time classroom teachers to participate in the Guardian Program. In short, once having completed training and having received authorization, full-time classroom teachers could carry arms on school grounds. To view Florida PTA's statement regarding SB 7030 and email your state Senator, please click on Florida PTA Action Center. You can also click on Florida State Senators for a full list of state Senators or click on Janet Cruz to email our local state Senator. 

    ABC Action News reported on the lack of crossing guards in 45 Hillsborough County Elementary schools, including Grady. Click here to view the news report. The school is doing everything they can to help protect our kids, from constantly requesting traffic studies to qualify for a crossing guard to having Coach Murrell assist in the crosswalk during student drop off and pick up. Thanks Coach Murrell!! Safety is a huge priority for us and we will continue to advocate for a crossing guard and improvements in pedestrian safety. This video is a great reminder to stop at crosswalks when pedestrians are present. Let's all work together to keep our families safe! 

    Finally, Hillsborough County is conducting a countywide survey in spring 2019 to assess resident satisfaction in key areas. Feedback from the anonymous questionnaire will assist county administration in determining priorities for the community and evaluating how Hillsborough County compares with other jurisdictions across the nation.  Click on Hillsborough County Citizen Survey to complete the survey. 

    There will be an incoming 6th grade parent meeting at Coleman Middle School on Tuesday, May 7th. The meeting will take place in the Coleman Cafeteria from 6:00 - 7:00 pm. 

    Coleman Middle School is located at 1724 S Manhattan Ave. 

    Summer VPK at Grady

    March 27, 2019

    Summer VPK registration opens tomorrow, Thursday, March 28th at 8:00 am at Mitchell Elementary (205 S. Bungalow Park Ave). The VPK program will be held at Grady Elementary, but run by Mitchell's Vice Principal, Mr. Moon. The program runs from June 10 - July 31st, Monday - Thursday from 7:30 am - 6:00 pm (drop-off and pick-up are flexible).  

    Please see the attached photo for more information or contact Mitchell Elementary at 813-872-5216.

    Grady is turning 60 this year!

    Our Choirs will be celebrating with a musical tour through the Billboard Top 100 from Grady’s 1st school year, 1958-59, then travel to each decade after that, including 1968, ’78, ’88, ’98, 2008, and 2018.


    It's almost time for Grady's 60th Anniversary Spring Concerts!

    • The Concert for 1st & 2nd Graders will be held on Tuesday, March 12th at 6 pm
    • The Concert for 3rd, 4th & 5th Graders School Concert will be held on Wednesday, March 13th at 6 pm 

    Concerts start at 6 pm, Students should go to Mr. Florio's room starting at 5 pm

    Attire: Break out your best fashions and/or costumes from the last 60 years of fashion! Poodle skirts to Overalls to Neon, everything to jeans and jelly shoes! Anything that is school appropriate will do. 

    Support our 5th Grade by purchasing Dippin Dots and water! 

    Grady Elementary PRIVATE REGISTRATION EXTENDED!!!!

    2nd Annual Summer Art Camps @ Grady Elementary
     
    Week 1 "Under the Sea" is almost full! 
     
    Special Camp Deposit: Grady parents can secure their child’s spot with a camp deposit of only $25.
     
    Both half and full day camps available: Sign up for both the morning and afternoon sessions to have your child participate as a full day camper, and we’ll watch your child during the lunch hour.
     
    CLICK HERE to learn about our themed art camps that focus on the exploration of art material through hands-on guided learning, interactive art play and skill development. Our summer art camps are a place where children feel comfortable expressing their creativity while meeting like-minded kids. Campers grow in extraordinary ways that help them lead happy, meaningful and productive lives because they receive a lot of personal attention from our exceptional staff. This includes improving social skills, learning to make decisions, becoming more resilient, and gaining other character-building tools.
     
    Space is limited as each session will be capped at only 20 campers. Camp will be open to Pre-K through 5th grade students in the South Tampa area. Last year our camps filled up in only three weeks.
     
    Special Offer for Grady Parents: Grady parents can secure their child’s spot with a camp deposit of only $25
     
    CLICK HERE to get more information today as registration is limited! If you want to see one of our camp videos from last summer, please visit https://vimeo.com/275931702 to see campers having a great time.

    Totally Awesome Raffle Baskets

    February 26, 2019

    Arts & Crafts - Raffle

    Get ready for a totally awesome night! We are less than 2 weeks away from Grady’s 80's Night Auction on March 9th from 6-10pm at the Christ the King Mary Martha Center. Buy your tickets at www.gradytigers.org/auction before prices increase! Early bird tickets are only $35 per person and include delicious food and 2 drink tickets. 

    Raffle tickets will be on sale from Thursday, February 28th through Friday, March 8th during drop off from 7:15 - 7:45 am. Raffle tickets cost $1 each, $5 for 7, and $10 for 15. You do not have to be present at the auction to win. 

    Click on Sample Raffle and Auction baskets to view our raffle baskets and some of our auction baskets. 

    Raffle items:

    Rainy night fun 
    2 snuggly blankets
    Cobra paw board game
    Bingo game
    Popcorn and popcorn container
    Assorted candies
    Coca Cola teddy bears
    $25 Netflix gift card
    $25 black jack pizza gift card
    Value $115
    Let’s go to the Movies   
    Sea salt popcorn
    Assorted candies
    Popcorn buckets
    $70 fandango gift cards
    $25 amc gift cards
    Value $120
    Team Impact sports 
    Two (2) 45-minute private baseball lessons 
    Value $100
    Are you Lucky?  
    Assorted lottery tickets
    Magic 8 ball
    Dice
    Deck of cards
    Lucky charms cereal
    Value $endless possibilities
    Arts & Crafts 
    $100 gift certificate to Yellowbird Art Studio
    Colored pencils
    Glitter crayons
    Glue stick
    Hole punch
    Pom poms
    Crayons
    Donut stickers
    Value $125

    We can’t wait to see you at the raddest night of the year!

    The Grady Elementary Spring Book Fair is coming up from March 11-15th (with a preview day on March 8th). Book Fair is open from 7:30 am - 2:30 pm daily. No children are allowed without parents until after the morning show.

    The Book Fair is a great way to get kids excited about reading and to buy some great reads for Spring Break! 

    To volunteer at the Book Fair, please click on Book Fair Volunteers

    Consider using the eWallet feature in lieu of sending kids with cash. For more information, click on http://www.scholastic.com/bf/gradyelementaryschool

    As a reminder, there is an 8.5% sales tax on all items.

    If you are unable to shop in person, click on Shop Online to access our online book fair. 

    Thank you for supporting our school Book Fair and developing a love of reading in your child!

    Jump Rope for Heart is coming up tomorrow, Friday, February 15th!

    We still need volunteers to help monitor stations, hand out water, turn jump ropes and more, especially for Kindergarten (8:40-9:30) and 3rd grade (11:40-12:30). To view the schedule and sign up to volunteer, click on VOLUNTEER FORMThank you to everyone that has already signed up!

    Jump Rope for Heart is a fun field day that has our students jumping rope, running and jumping over hurdles and bouncing in a bounce house. In addition to fun, students learn about heart health and the importance of a good diet. Jump Rope for Heart also has a fundraising component that raises money for the American Heart Association and helps raise funds for athletic equipment at Grady Elementary. Your child can still collect donations and turn them in via the envelope provided or you can sign up online by clicking on Grady Elementary's AHA Page. You can also download the Kids Heart Challenge mobile app. 

    If you have any questions, please email Ms. Murrell at [email protected].fl.us

     

    Below are some upcoming important dates:

    2/15 - Jump Rope for Heart and Field Day

    2/18 - President's Day - NO SCHOOL

    2/21 – Conference Night at Grady

    3/04 - Strawberry Festival - NO SCHOOL

    3/09 - Grady 80's themed Auction Night at Christ the King 

    3/12 - 1st & 2nd Grade School Concert

    3/13 - 3rd, 4th and 5th Grade School Concert 

    3/18-3/25 - Spring Break - NO SCHOOL

     

    Grady Auction

    Join us for our totally rad 80's themed auction on Saturday, March 9th. This adult only event will be held at Christ the King from 6:00 - 10:00 pm. 

    Early Bird Tickets are now available for $35 per person through Sunday, March 3rd. The ticket includes admission, dinner and 2 drink tickets. To purchase your tickets, click on Grady Auction Tickets

    We will have raffle tickets for sale during drop off the week of March 5th – 8th. We will be sending out emails with pictures of the raffle baskets and some of our auction baskets in the coming weeks. 

    We have some amazing auction items, including: 

    • One week stay at the Wyndham Bonnet Creek in Orlando from June 7 - June 14, 2019 (click on Wyndham Bonnet Creek for more details)

    • Football clinic with NFL Quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick

    • VIP school parking - skip the car line and park in the back of Grady

    • Hang your college flag in front of Grady for a year. Grab your friends and be sure to win this highly coveted item! Which college will be waving its flag this coming year?

     

    Florida State Fair

    Grady students will have artwork on display during the Florida State Fair for the Black History Art Exhibit. Our theme was "Celebrating African American Pioneers in the Arts and S.T.E.M." Grady focused on Benjamin Banneker this year. The art will be on display inside the Florida Center during the time that the fair is running. Please come out to enjoy the art show and other festivities. 

     

    Yearbook

    Purchase your yearbook today! Prices are currently $20 for a softcover yearbook and $25 for a hardcover yearbook, however, pricing will increase April 1st. Please visit www.strawbridge.net to purchase online and enter online code 112045.   

    We need pictures for our yearbook. If you have pictures from field trips, the 3rd-5th grade winter concert, Barnes & Noble Family Night of Reading, Family Skate Nights, Tropicana Speeches or the Great American Teach in that you would like to submit, please email them to [email protected]

     

    Got used markers? ColorCycle them at Grady

    What is Crayola ColorCycle? Crayola’s latest sustainability initiative designed to repurpose markers, highlighters and dry erase markers. All marker brands are accepted. 

    How do I help? Collect markers and drop them off in the front office or your student can give them to our art teacher, Debonique Grigsby. 

    For more information, click on ColorCycle.

     

    Tiger Talk Update 2.7.19

    February 7, 2019

    Click Read More for the full Tiger Talk Update

    Below are some upcoming important dates:
    2/08 - Fair Day - NO SCHOOL
    2/13 - Pre-K and Kindergarten Valentine's Day Concert
    2/15 - Jump Rope for Heart and Field Day
    2/18 - President's Day - NO SCHOOL
    3/04 - Strawberry Festival - NO SCHOOL
    3/09 - Grady 80's themed Auction Night at Christ the King
    3/12 - 1st & 2nd Grade School Concert
    3/13 - 3rd, 4th and 5th Grade School Concert
    3/18-3/25 - Spring Break - NO SCHOOL

    Jump Rope for Heart

    Jump Rope for Heart is a fun field day that has our students jumping rope, running and jumping over hurdles and bouncing in a bounce house. In addition to fun, students learn about heart health and the importance of a good diet. Jump Rope for Heart also has a fundraising component that raises money for the American Heart Association and helps raise funds for athletic equipment at Grady Elementary.

    We will need volunteers on Friday, February 15th to help monitor stations, hand out water, turn jump ropes and more. We will be sending the full schedule and volunteer sign up later this week.

    Florida State Fair

    Grady students will have artwork on display during the Florida State Fair for the Black History Art Exhibit. Our theme was "Celebrating African American Pioneers in the Arts and S.T.E.M." Grady focused on Benjamin Banneker this year. The art will be on display inside the Florida Center during the time that the fair is running. Please come out to enjoy the art show and other festivities.

    Congratulations to Mekaela Grullon! Her firework-inspired art was selected to go on display at the Florida State Fair. It will be inside the Florida Center during the fair. Way to go Mekaela!

    Grady Auction

    Join us for our totally rad 80's themed auction on Saturday, March 9th. This adult only event will be held at Christ the King from 6:00 - 10:00 pm.

    Early Bird Tickets are now available for $35 per person through Sunday, March 3rd. The ticket includes admission, dinner and 2 drink tickets. Click on Auction to purchase tickets and see some of our amazing auction items!

    Jump Rope for Heart is a fun field day that has our students jumping rope, running and jumping over hurdles and bouncing in a bounce house. In addition to fun, students learn about heart health and the importance of a good diet. Jump Rope for Heart also has a fundraising component that raises money for the American Heart Association and helps raise funds for athletic equipment at Grady Elementary. 

    We will need volunteers on Friday, February 15th to help monitor stations, hand out water, turn jump ropes and more. We will be sending the full schedule and volunteer sign up later this week.

    Your child can collect donations and turn them in via the envelope provided or you can sign up online by clicking on Grady Elementary's AHA Page. You can also download the Kids Heart Challenge mobile app. 

    If you have any questions, please email Ms. Murrell at [email protected]

    Tiger Talk Update 1.24.19

    January 24, 2019

    Thank you to all of the pirates that joined us on Thursday Night for our Unlock the Treasures of Reading Night! Our students loved hearing the stories, getting beads and eating cookies! 

    Our goal over the past year and a half has been to upgrade our technology. With the funds raised last year, we were able to purchase 1 computer cart (with at least 20 laptops) for each grade level for a total of 120 laptops. The laptop cart will allow the computers to go from classroom to classroom, so that the computers can be utilized by more students during a single school day. For the 2018-19 school year, we included budget items for additional technology upgrades. We have already approved the purchase of 2 ceiling mounted projectors, 2 iPads, and 1 laptop and plan to purchase additional technology for the media center. 

    Principal Dosal requested that we use the our additional funds this year to install a new digital marquee. The digital marquee will assist the office in quickly communicating with our parents and providing up-to-date reminders of important events at Grady, instead of monthly updates. During the meeting, we officially voted to fund the digital marquee with our additional funds. We will share more information about the marquee as it becomes available. 

    In addition, during the meeting we approved over $2,500 in mini grant requests from our teachers and specialists that include: purchasing 100 classic literature books for 4th graders, providing flexible seating options for students, approving subscriptions (News 2 You, Scholastic, Storyworks, Starfall and ABC Mouse) that benefit students in multiple grades, and providing our ASD classrooms with kits that help with fine motor skills and help with science experiments.   

    Thanks to all of our amazing sponsors, donors during events such as Tiger Trek and Auction Night, and increased club enrollment, we have acquired more funds that allow us to better serve our students and the community. 

    Below are some upcoming important dates:

    1/25 - Kindergarten Countdown for incoming Kindergarten parents
    1/31 - Family Skate Night at United Skates of America
    2/08 - Fair Day - NO SCHOOL
    2/13 - Pre-K and Kindergarten Valentine's Day Concert
    2/15 - Jump Rope for Heart and Field Day
    3/09 - Grady 80's themed Auction Night at Christ the King 
    3/12 - 1st & 2nd Grade School Concert
    3/13 - 3rd, 4th and 5th Grade School Concert 

    DUST OFF YOUR LEG WARMERS!

    TEASE YOUR HAIR UP!

    When: March 9, 2019 from 6-10pm

    Where: Christ the King

    Theme: The 80’s

    THIS IS AN ADULT ONLY EVENT!

    Day of Tickets available Saturday, March 9th (purchase at the door only - no online purchase available)
    $45 includes admission + dinner (no drink tickets)

    AMAZING AUCTION ITEMS INCLUDE:

      • One week stay at the Wyndham Bonnet Creek in Orlando from June 7 - June 14, 2019 (click on Wyndham Bonnet Creek for more details)
      • Football clinic with NFL Quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick
      • VIP school parking - skip the car line and park in the back of Grady
      • Hang your college flag in front of Grady for a year


      We will be previewing some of the awesome items we will have available at the auction:

      Summer Camps

      • Girls with confidence
      • Martial Arts Advantage
      • Rockatar 
      • Camp Terrapin at Tampa Prep
      • Playgrounds of Tampa
      • Berkeley Prep sports, art or enrichment camp
      • LaFleur’s Gymnastics
      • South Tampa Basketball Camp at Grady 

      Sports

      • Under Armour Basketball Registration
      • Under Armour Flag Football Registration
      • Tampa Bay Little League Softball or Baseball Registration
      • South Tampa Titans Football or Cheer Registration
      • Strike One Pitching - private pitching or hitting lessons
      • Tampa Bay Lightning Basket, including tickets to a game
      • Martial Arts Advantage - summer camp and birthday party
      • LaFleur’s Gymnastics - gymnastics classes
      • Tampa Bay United Soccer Registration
      • Take Me Out to the Ballgame USF Bulls Baseball Basket
      • Tampa Bay Rays - 4 tickets to a home game
      • South Tampa Basketball Camp at Grady 

      Music and the Arts

      • Grady Music Teacher for the day
      • Grady Art Teacher for the day
      • South Tampa Center for the Arts - one week of summer camp
      • Private Piano lessons
      • Private Drum or Percussion lessons
      • Private Photography lesson
      • Adult Arts & Crafts basket including gift card to Painting with a Twist
      • Rockatar - private lessons or a week of summer camp
      • Berkeley Prep - week of summer camp
      • Tampa Music School - private lesson, and a bag of fun items including a ukelele

      Beauty Regiment

      • Mint Salon: $50 gift certificate and various hair care products (value $250)
      • Hair Affair basket: curlers, blow dry clips, wet brush, JoJo Siwa bos, curling iron, $25 ultra card and much more (value $300)
      • Christine Diaz Hair Package: certificate for single process color, haircut and style, various hair care products (value $200)
      • Perez Orthodontics: 1/2 off orthodontic treatment (value up to $2750)
      • Marcadis Plastic Surgery: $250 Botox Treatment
      • Pamper Yourself: $50 Fancy Nails, $100 Blowbar Express, $25 Hazel & Dot, and more (value $200)

      Good Eats

      • "In Pizza We Crust" basket: $25 gift card to Black Jack Pizza, $40 gift card to California Pizza Kitchen, Pizza stone, Kate Spade hot mitts and towels, Pizza making ingredients, pizza serving tools, cookbooks. Value $325
      • S'mores Family Fun: Fire pit and accessories, Hershey’s s’mores kit, Flannel blanket, roasting sticks, mugs, hot chocolate, S’mores recipe book, and much more. Value $300
      • Stroll Through Hyde Park: $50 Cinebistro, $25 Sprinkles Cupcakes, $10 Hyppo, $50 Timpano, $50 Wine Exchange, $50 Bar Taco, $50 On Swann. Value $235 
      • Patty Cake, Patty Cake Baking basket: 2 baking with kids cookbooks, a proofing basket, mixing bowls, dish towels, mixing spatulas, an electric mixer, measuring spoons, egg yolk separator, aprons and chef hats. Value $250
      • Ice Cream Social basket: $10 gift card to Cold Stone, $10 gift card to Dairy Joy, $10 gift card to Yogurtology, Cuisinart soft serve ice cream maker, Ice cream cone play set, ceramic ice cream bowls, plastic ice cream bowls and spoons, ice cream scoop, ice cream pillow, assorted ice cream toppings. Value $212
      • Date Night Basket:  $40 Coldstone, $25 Total Wine, $25 Darden Restaurants, $50 AMC Movies, $25 Maggiano’s, $40 Margaritas Mexican. Value $205
      • Village Inn Pie of the Month: turn in your coupon each month for one of the many delicious pies at the Village Inn! Value $120 
      • Nothing Bundt Cake: redeem your coupon each month for a delicious bundt cake. Also, you get to bring home a cake the night of the auction! Value $300
      • Besito Mexican Experience: Dining experience for 4 people. Includes appetizers, entrees, dessert, tequila flight tasting, and margaritas. Value $350 
      • A Taste of Mexico: Chipotle dinner for 4, $20 gift card to Tijuana Flats plus 2 of their hot sauces, 4 margarita glasses, bottle of Jose Cuervo tequila, bottle of organic margarita mix, queso and hot sauce, chip and dip bowl. Value $200  
      • Rollin’ Oats: $25 gift card, assorted snacks, water bottle, T-shirt. Value $50  
      • Taste of Tampa: $50 Bulla Gastropub, $50 Flemings, $50 Bella’s, $50 Bern’s/Haven, Bar Taco dinner for 2, $40 Deviled Pig, Toffee to Go gift card, Oxford Exchange tea for 2, $50 Roy’s gift card, $25 Metro Diner, $50 Edison’s, $100 Donatello’s, $20 Buddy Brew, and more. Value $700  

      Drink Up

      • Cooper's Hawk Wine Club: 3-month wine membership, 2 wine tastings and an oversized bottle of wine
      • PRP Wine International: Private In-Home Sampling Experience for up to 12 people, 90 minutes. Includes 8 bottles of wine and a wine consultant. 
      • Stroll Through Hyde Park: $50 Cinebistro, $25 Sprinkles Cupcakes, $10 Hyppo, $50 Timpano, $50 Wine Exchange, $50 Bar Taco, $50 On Swann
      • Date Night Basket:  $40 Coldstone, $25 Total Wine, $25 Darden Restaurants, $50 AMC Movies, $25 Maggiano’s, $40 Margaritas Mexican
      • Besito Mexican Experience: Dining experience for 4 people. Includes appetizers, entrees, dessert, tequila flight tasting, and margaritas
      • A Taste of Mexico: Chipotle dinner for 4, $20 gift card to Tijuana Flats plus 2 of their hot sauces, 4 margarita glasses, bottle of Jose Cuervo tequila, bottle of organic margarita mix, queso and hot sauce, chip and dip bowl, accessories
      • Total Wine & Spirits: Private wine class for up to 20 people
      • Tailgate with 81Bay: 4-pack of 81Bay Beer, 1 free crowler, ball cap, 81Bay swag, Yeti 12 Hopper
      • 3 Daughters Brewery: $40 gift card, 2 pint glasses, 2 koozies, assortment of 3 Daughters beers
      • Wine Please: wine bag, corkscrew, wine stopper, 4 wine glasses, wine socks, wine tote, Coppola Merlot, Votre Sante Pinot Noir

      Thank you to our Auction Sponsors:

      Family Skate Night at United Skates of America 1/31

      January 23, 2019 - January 31, 2019

      Grady PTA School Skate Party With The Worlds Largest Indoor “Real Fake Snowball Fight”

      Thursday, January 31st
      6:00 - 8:00 pm

       

      Pre-sale are available until Tuesday, January 29th!!
      Pre-sale tickets get you early entry at 5:30 pm!!

       

      $6.00 per person
      (includes regular skate rental)
      Non-skating Adults entry is FREE!
      All children entering must pay admission.
      ONLINE SALES ARE NOW CLOSED!
       
      Please join us on Thursday, January 31st for the World’s Largest Indoor Snowball Fight themed school skate party at United Skates of America. Join us to skate, throw snowballs and support the Grady Elementary PTA. Hope to see you all there!
       
      United Skates of America, 5121 N Armenia Ave., Tampa, Fl 33603 
      813-876-5826

      www.unitedskates.com/tampa

      Today is the last day to register for our Spring session of After School Enrichment (ASE) Clubs. The clubs start January 22nd and run through May 17th. Please visit ASE Club Information for more information about our clubs and ASE Club Signup to register. Please note that the Baseball Club has been cancelled due to low enrollment.

      Thursday is our annual Unlock the Treasurers of Reading Night (Pirate Reading Night). The kids are invited to dress as pirates or wear pajamas. The night starts with a general PTA meeting at the flagpole at 5:45 pm. Children will go to classrooms and enjoy stories read by pirates from local krewes, while parents of students in grades 3-5 go to the Media Center for the FSA Information Session and parents of students in grades K-2 go to the Cafeteria for a Reading Essentials Information Session. It's a really fun night with free books, beads, juice and cookies!

      Congratulations to all of our Reflections Art Contest winners! To see a full list of the winners, click on Read More.

      Below are some upcoming important dates:

      1/17 - Unlock the Treasures of Reading Night (Pirate Reading Night) & General PTA Meeting
      1/21 - MLK - NO SCHOOL
      1/22 - First day of Spring After School Enrichment clubs
      1/25 - Kindergarten Countdown for incoming Kindergarten parents
      1/31 - Family Skate Night at United Skates of America
      2/08 - Fair Day - NO SCHOOL
      2/13 - Pre-K and Kindergarten Valentine's Day Concert
      3/12 - 1st & 2nd Grade School Concert
      3/13 - 3rd, 4th and 5th Grade School Concert
      3/9/19 - Grady 80's themed Auction Night at Christ the King

      Yearbooks now on sale!

      January 11, 2019

      Yearbook sales are officially open! Envelopes  for paper sales will be sent home later this month. Prices are currently $20 for a softcover yearbook and $25 for a hardcover yearbook, however, pricing will increase April 1st. Please visit www.strawbridge.net to purchase online and enter online code 112045. 

      On Thursday, January 17th from 6:00-7:00pm is our annual Unlock the Treasures of Reading Night, also known as Grady Pirate Night.  In addition, we will be holding a very brief PTA General Meeting at the flagpole at 5:45 pm. 

      Parents and children are invited to this event.  Children will go to classrooms and enjoy stories read by pirates from local krewes.  Parents of students in grades 3-5 will go to the Media Center for the FSA Information Session and parents of students in grades K-2 will go to the cafeteria for a Reading Essentials Information Session. 

      The kids will have a blast and they are invited to dress as pirates or wear pajamas. There will be free books, beads, juice and cookies. Please don’t miss this fun event.

      Grady Elementary is running a food drive to benefit End 68 Hours of Hunger of Hillsborough County. Donations will be collected from December 3rd to December 19th. Please send donations in with your child and they will place them in the donation box in their classroom. 

      Recommended donation items are:

      • Rice
      • Instant Potatoes
      • Boxed Stuffing
      • Cereal
      • Cereal Bars
      • Granola
      • Crackers
      • Apple Sauce
      • Spaghetti
      • Spaghetti Sauce
      • Chef Boyardee
      • Mac n Cheese
      • Tuna in Water
      • Peanut Butter
      • Jelly
      Our Winter Concerts are quickly approaching! The dates of the concerts are:
      1st & 2nd Grade: Wednesday, December 5th at 6 pm
      3rd, 4th & 5th Grade Chorus: Thursday, December 6th at 6 pm
      Pre-K, Kindergarten and ESE Students: Friday, December 7th at 8 am

      Click on Read More for concert details

      We look forward to seeing our families at Grady's Thanksgiving Lunch tomorrow, Wednesday, November 14th! Make sure that you bring a photo ID and allow time to sign in and receive a visitor's pass from the front office.

      We still need your help volunteering at the lunch! Please click on Thanksgiving Lunch Volunteer to sign up. We would love your help, even if you can't sign up for the full hour. Please write in the comments when you are available to help or if you have to arrive late/leave early so you can attend your child's lunch. 

      Below are some upcoming important dates:
      11/14 - Thanksgiving Lunch
      11/15 - Great American Teach In
      11/19-11/23 - Thanksgiving Break - No school
      11/30 - Grady's Tiger Trek Walkathon
      12/5 - Winter Concert - 1st & 2nd grade
      12/6 - Winter Concert - 3rd - 5th grades
      12/7 - Winter Concert - Pre-K & Kindergarten
      12/14 - Barnes & Noble Family Night of Reading
      3/9/19 - Grady 80's themed Auction Night at Christ the King 

      Tiger Trek

      Thank you to all of the families that have donated so far! We are still accepting donations through November 30th. Money can be collected through the envelope provided or online donations are accepted here. The class with the most donations overall will win a Yogurtology Yogurt Party and the class with the most donations in each grade will win a Popsicle Party. In addition, the top students overall will win the following1st place – 3 $100 certificates from Bricks 4 Kidz that can be used towards camps or birthday party; 2nd place – 1 Ukulele and $179 certificate for 1 month of lessons from Tampa Music School; and 3rd place - $50 game play from Top Golf. 

      Our current student leaders are:

      • Derek Johnson             $550
      • Agnus Tutterow            $200
      • Ethan Ledford               $175
      • Hayden Atzenhoefer     $175
      • Kaila Ledford                 $175
      • Sydnee Moniz               $160
      • Zoe Beauregard            $159
      • Andrew Valle                 $150
      • Leo Bernedo Lores       $150
      Our current classes vying for the Yogurtology Party are:
      • Ritter
      • Price
      • De Lucia
      • Dreby
      • Steel
      • Hero
      • Del Castillo
      • Pifer
      • Wolfe

      Please consider volunteering for Tiger Trek and cheering on your child! Volunteer shifts are available from 7:40 am until 1:35 pm (shifts are 30 minutes to 1 hour). To see the complete Tiger Trek schedule and sign up online to volunteer, please click here:   Volunteer for Tiger Trek.   

      Grady Auction

      Join us for our totally rad 80's themed auction on Saturday, March 9th. This adult only event will be held at Christ the King from 6:00 - 10:00 pm. 

      Early Bird Tickets are now available for $35 per person through Sunday, March 3rd. The ticket includes admission, dinner and 2 drink tickets. To purchase your tickets, click on Grady Auction Tickets

      Got used markers? ColorCycle them at Grady

      What is Crayola ColorCycle? Crayola’s latest sustainability initiative designed to repurpose markers, highlighters and dry erase markers. All marker brands are accepted. 

      How do I help? Collect markers and drop them off in the front office or your student can give them to our art teacher, Debonique Grigsby. 

      For more information, click on ColorCycle.

      Grady PTA Membership
      Thank you to all of the families that have already signed up to join the Grady PTA! You can still sign up/renew your PTA membership online by clicking PTA Membership. Membership is only $6 for 1 person or $10 for 2 people. High membership allows us to participate in PTA programs such as Reflections Art. Signing up for the PTA does not commit you to any volunteering (although we always love having our families volunteer at the school!)
      Thanksgiving Lunch

      Our Thanksgiving Lunch will be held on Wednesday, November 14th in the Grady Cafeteria. Below is a copy of the schedule and the Thanksgiving Lunch form so that you can make reservations. 

      We need your help volunteering at the lunch! Please click on Thanksgiving Lunch Volunteer to sign up. There are 1 hour shifts and and we need help to guide parents to their tables, maintain the tables clean, guide parents to where they can put their trash and make sure table is presentable for next group.

      TUESDAY-FRIDAY LUNCH SCHEDULE 2018-19

      Time

      Grade

      Teacher

      Row

      10:15-10:45

      Pre-K

      Brinson

      1 (Pre-K Tables)

      10:20-10:50

      Pre-K

      Minardi

      1 (Pre-K Tables)

      10:25-10:55

      1

      Delcastillo/McAlister-Eveland

      8 & 1

      10:30-11:00

      1

      Ward

      2

      10:35-11:05

      1

      Wolfe

      3

      10:40-11:10

      1

      Horne

      4

      10:45-11:15

      3

      Ona

      5

      10:50-11:20

      3

      De Lucia

      6

      10:55-11:25

      3

      Oliva

      7

      11:00-11:30

      3

      Pifer

      8

      11:05-11:35

      2

      Price

      2

      11:10-11:40

      2

      Nelder

      3

      11:15-11:45

      2

      Doremus

      4

      11:20-11:50

      2

      Buell

      5

      11:25-11:55

      5

      Cucci

      6 & 7

      11:30-12:00

      5

      Webber

      7 & 8

      11:35-12:05

      5

      Trupp

      8 & 1

      11:40-12:10

      5

      Steel

      2 & 3

      11:45-12:15

      4

      Ritter

      3 & 4

      11:50-12:20

      4

      Lanier

      4 & 5

      11:55-12:25

      4

      Dickens/Nichols

      5 & 6

      12:00-12:30

      4

      Reyher

      7 & 8

      12:05-12:35

      K

      Hero

      8 & 1

      12:10-12:40

      K

      Dreby

      2

      12:15-12:45

      K

      Finitz (Wed 12:25 - 12:55)

      3

      12:20-12:50

      K

      Edwards 

      4

      Makeup Pictures on 11/7

      November 2, 2018

      Makeup fall pictures will be taken on Wednesday, November 7th. Please see the attached form for additional information and keep in mind that all envelopes and money must be turned in by Tuesday, November 6th. 

      For "Day Of" Online Purchases: Click Here

      The "Day Of" Prices:

      - Wristbands -

      $20 for the 1st Wristband 

      $10 for each additional Wristband

      - Extras -

      $1 extra pizza/slice

      $1 extra drink

      $1 extra slime ticket

      - Group Tickets -

      $1 = 1 ticket

      $5 = 6 tickets

      $10 = 15 tickets
       

      *** All wristbands include: ***

      Unlimited Booths

      Unlimited Games

      Magic Show

      1 Slice of Pizza

      1 Drink

      1 Bag of Chips

      1 Popcorn

      1 Popsicle

      End 68 Hours of Hunger Food Truck Rally on 11/4

      October 23, 2018 - November 6, 2018

      Grady PTA supports End 68 Hours of Hunger’s upcoming Tampa Bay Food Truck Rally and Silent Auction.  68 Hours of Hunger provides weekend meals to feed children. Right now, they are feeding more than 140 children a week.  Let’s support their good works and enjoy some tasty treats, too!  Thank you for supporting Grady PTA’s friends.

      Please join us at the Tampa Bay Food Truck Rally,  Sunday, November 4, from 10:30 am to 2 pm at Hyde Park Presbyterian Church, 1309 W. Swann Ave., Tampa, FL 33606.  There will be food trucks for all tastes and lots of family fun.  

      For more information, please visit www.facebook.com/foodtruckend68/.

      Red Ribbon Week - October 22-26

      October 21, 2018 - October 26, 2018

      Monday - Wear red (school will hand out red ribbons)

      Tuesday - Crazy socks day

      Wednesday - "Turn your back on drugs day" by wearing your clothes backwards

      Thursday - Turn in posters for "Say No to Drugs" poster contest.  Posters must be on unlined 8.5" x 11" and in landscape position.  Posters must relate to the theme "Drug Free Me" and drawn with markers, paints and/or crayons. Posters must be original - no cutting and pasting of pictures or stickers. Each class winner will receive a free kid's meal from Outback. 

      Friday - School Spirt Day - wear school spirit shirts

      Grady PTA thanks State Farm Agent Jim Cornwell for being a Siberian Level Tiger Partner!  Mr. Cornwell donated $2,000.00 to benefit our teachers and students!

      Please check out his website at State Farm - Jim Cornwell.

      State Farm Agent Jim Cornwell is located at 4305 Bay To Bay Blvd., Tampa, FL 33629-6606 and his phone number is (813) 835-8892.

      If you call him for your insurance needs, please let them him how much you appreciate him sponsoring our school.

      Please join us on Thursday, October 18th for a Halloween themed school skate party at United Skates of America. Dress in costume to skate and support the Grady Elementary PTA.

      Pre-sale tickets are $6 per person and include regular skate rental. Skating begins at 5:30pm for pre-sale tickets and 6:00pm for sales at the door and skate night will conclude at 8:00pm. 

      Online sales are now closed.

      You can still purchase tickets at the door.

      Hope to see you all there!

      Fall Festival 2018 Volunteer Sign-Up

      October 12, 2018 - October 26, 2018

      Volunteers needed Friday, October 26th from 4pm - 9pm. 

      We need your help to make this year's Fall Festival an incredible experience for our children. The Festival will be held from 5pm - 8pm.

      Please click the link below to volunteer:

      http://gradytigers.org/fall-festival-2018-volunteer-sign-up

      Grady Fall Festival 2018 Links

      October 5, 2018 - October 26, 2018

      Grady Elementary School PTA FALL FESTIVAL

      Friday, October 26th, 2018

      5:00pm - 8:00pm

       

      Book Fair Booth, Bounce Houses, Games, 5th Grade Bake Sale, Slime, Sponsors, Magic Show (6:00 & 7:00pm) and more!!!! 

      In addition, if we reach the Book Fair sales goal of $12,000, Media Specialist Nick Tsourakis will be SLIMED!  

      Wristbands may be purchased in advance and save $$$$$$. 

      All wristbands include:
      Unlimited Booths
      Unlimited Games
      Magic Show
      1 Slice of Pizza
      1 Drink
      1 Bag of Chips
      1 Popcorn
      1 Popsicle

      Deadline for advance purchase is Tuesday, October 23rd

      ADVANCE PURCHASE IS NOW CLOSED

      For More information on the Fall Festival: click here 

      If you wish to pay by cash or check, a wristband order form was sent home with each student. If you didn't receive one, please contact the office.

      To volunteer for the Fall Festival, click here, or contact the homeroom parent for your child's classroom, or your child’s teache

      Tiger Talk Update 10.4.18

      October 4, 2018

      On the ballot this year, our district is facing an extremely important vote. Right now, because of inadequate state funding, our students face a future in aging, crowded schools. The half-penny sales tax would invest $131 million in our county’s students and schools each year for ten years. You can find some of the frequently asked questions about the half-penny sales tax on our district’s website: Half-penny sales tax FAQs or you can attend one of our scheduled Town Hall Meetings with Superintendent Jeff Eakins.

      Below are some upcoming important dates:
      10/5 - Last day to turn in spare change for our Pennies for Patients fundraiser benefiting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
      10/17 - Deadline to submit artwork for the Reflections Art Program
      10/18 - Family Night at United Skates of America - Click on Purchase tickets to order your wristband today!
      10/22-26 - Grady Elementary's Book Fair - Click Here to Volunteer
      10/26 - Grady Fall Festival from 5-8pm - Volunteers needed!
      11/4 - End 68 Hours of Hunger's annual Tampa Bay Food Truck Rally
      11/30 - Grady's Tiger Trek Walk-a-thon - PLEASE NOTE DATE WAS CHANGED TO 11/30
      3/9/19 - Grady Auction Night at Christ the King

      Grady Book Fair 2018 & Volunteer Sign-up

      October 3, 2018 - October 26, 2018

      Grady Elementary School Book Fair

      Oct. 22 - Oct. 26

      Our Scholastic Book Fair is a reading event that brings kids the books they want to read. We'll receive a wonderful selection of engaging and affordable books for every reading level, and all purchases benefit our school! Reading for pleasure inside and outside of school has real and long-lasting benefits. Please come to our book fair and help shape your child's reading habits. 

      Consider using the new eWallet feature in lieu of sending kids with cash. For more information, please click on eWallet. Keep in mind that there is a 7% sales tax added to all items. 

      We need your help! Please sign-up to volunteer for the Book Fair: Click Here to Volunteer

      Interactive Book Fair Flyer: Click Here

      The Book Fair is open from Monday - Friday, 7:30 - 2:30 (open 4:00 - 7:30 during Fall Festival).

      See you at the Book Fair!

      Education Referendum

      October 3, 2018

      Do you know about the Education Referendum and how it will impact our school?

      On the ballot this year, our district is facing an extremely important vote. The half-penny sales tax would invest $131 million in our county’s students and schools each year for ten years. The funding would be spent on specific projects to improve our public schools—the list across our district includes replacing air conditioners, fixing leaky roofs, new classroom technology, upgrading safety and security systems, and 4 new schools to relieve overcrowding. Please see the projects scheduled for Grady, as well as other schools in our area, right now at Education Referendum Projects.

      You can find some of the frequently asked questions about the half-penny sales tax on our district’s website: https://sdhc.k12.fl.us/doc/2296/investing-in-students/resources/faq-142/.

      If you’d like to get your questions about the education referendum answered in person, you’re invited to attend one of our scheduled Town Hall Meetings with Superintendent Jeff Eakins and our district staff. For the full schedule, please click on Town Hall Meetings.

      The Education Referendum will be the final item on the ballot. You must be registered to vote to have a say in this election by Tuesday, October 9th. You can register right now, online, at http://votehillsborough.org/.

      Please share this important information with your neighbors. Education has a direct impact on everyone in our community. When we invest in our students and our schools, our entire community succeeds.

      Please join us on Thursday, October 18th for a Halloween themed school skate party at United Skates of America. Dress in costume to skate and support the Grady Elementary PTA.

      Pre-sale tickets are available until Tuesday, October 16th.

      Pre-sale tickets are $6 per person and include regular skate rental. Skating begins at 5:30pm for pre-sale tickets and 6:00pm for sales at the door and skate night will conclude at 8:00pm. 

      Grady Skate Night Party Page: Click here

      Hope to see you all there!

      Tiger Talk Update 9.24.18

      September 24, 2018

      Thank you so much to all of the grandparents that participated in our Grandparent's Breakfast on September 6th & 7th and to our staff and volunteers!

      Below are some upcoming important dates:

      9/26 - School picture day - it is a non-uniform day. Wear bright colors and don't forget to turn in your envelope by Tuesday, September 25th.
      9/26 - Superintendent Jeff Eakins will hold a town hall meeting on the Education Referendum at Grady Elementary from 7:00-9:00pm
      9/28 - Last day to submit Box Tops
      10/5 - Last day to submit donations for Pennies for Patients, raising funds for the Luekemia and Lymphoma Society
      10/17 - Submission deadline for Reflections Art Contest - the 2018 theme is “Heroes Around Me”
      10/18 - Family Night at United Skates of America
      10/26 - Grady Fall Festival
      3/9/19 - Grady Auction Night at Christ the King

      Grady PTA Membership - Thank you to all of the families that have already signed up to join the Grady PTA! You can still sign up/renew your PTA membership online by clicking PTA Membership.

      Grady Tiger Partners - Thank you to all of our Tiger partners! Please complete your family sponsorship by October 1st so that you can be listed as a Tiger Trek Sponsor!

      Our newest Tiger Business Partners are: Siberian level partner Jim Cornwell State Farm, Leader of the Pack level partner Abdoney Orthodontics, Bengal level partner Perez Orthodontics, and Cougar level partners South Tampa Pediatric Dentistry and Tampa Music School.

      Our newest Family Sponsors are: Green (cub) level partners Greg Arbutine & Alan Johnson, Chi Doan, the Jaruzel Family and the Quintero Family.

      Pennies for Patients

      September 23, 2018

      Grady is participating in the Pennies for Patients campaign for the Luekemia and Lymphoma Society.
      The campaign began on September 20 and runs through October 5th.  We are requesting pennies, dimes, quarters, dollars (and even checks!) to be donated to this worthy cause.  Students received a small box to collect their money.  If they donate $5.00 they will receive a Hero Ring.

      In addition, students/parents may donate online by clicking on https://events.lls.org/pages/sun/GradyElementarySchool-2019! 

      Please see the attached letter regarding the water testing that was completed at Grady.

      Recently, we informed you that water testing was taking place at your school. Federal guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency recommend we take action to fix an issue when results show that lead is measured at 20 parts per billion or higher. Our district is using a stricter standard of 15 parts per billion.  
       
      We tested 56 fixtures on your campus and received the results. Of the 56 fixtures tested, all fixtures are below our strict standard for lead of 15 parts per billion.

      Grady School Pictures on 9/26

      September 23, 2018

      On Wednesday, September 26th, individual school pictures will be taken. A Strawbridge flyer and envelope were sent home with your student on Friday. All pictures must be paid in advance.  The envelope and money must be returned to the school on or before the morning of Tuesday, September 25th. You can also pay online at strawbridge.net and enter school code: 112045.

      Your child has the opportunity to wear something different for the school pictures (it is a non-uniform school day). Please have your child wear bright colored clothes (but avoid green) and a big Grady smile on Wednesday.

      What is Crayola ColorCycle? Crayola is all about innovative solutions ~ in particular for kids and the environment.  ColorCycle is Crayola’s latest sustainability initiative designed to repurpose markers, highlighters and dry erase markers.

      Can any markers be sent in or just Crayola brand markers? Crayola ColorCycle will accept all brands of plastic markers, not just Crayola markers.  That includes dry erase markers and highlighters!  ColorCycle will eliminate placing hundreds of tons of markers into landfills.

      How do I help? You can begin to collect markers for drop off in your local school collection box. You can drop them off in the front office or your student can give them to our art teacher, Debonique Grigsby. You can collect used markers from home or anywhere in the community to donate. There is no cost to Girl Scouts or the school to ship the markers to Crayola. We will send one shipment in December and one in May to make sending the markers the most economical allowing for the most positive environmental impact.

      How many markers can we send? The more markers you ship, the more efficient this program will be.  We can ship a minimum of 100 markers and a maximum of up to 40 pounds.

      How can I find out more about ColorCycle and other Crayola environmental initiatives?  For more information about the ColorCycle program, visit www.crayola.com/colorcycle.   Visit our Green Initiatives page to read more about all of Crayola’s other environmental initiatives.

      You are invited to attend an upcoming town hall meeting in the Grady Elementary cafeteria on Wednesday, September 26th from 7-9pm. Superintendent Jeff Eakins will talk about the education referendum and the impact it will have on our schools and our community.

      Right now, because of inadequate state funding, our students face a future in aging, crowded schools and our community faces a $2 billion challenge. The half-penny sales tax education referendum on the November 6 ballot would generate approximately $131 million per year for ten years that would be spent on specific projects to improve our public schools.

      Each meeting will provide families, employees and community members the opportunity to get your questions about the referendum answered — straight from Superintendent Eakins. For more information, please click on Town Hall Meetings.

      Please attend this important event and feel free to invite friends/family in Hillsborough County.

      Please note, PTA is the oldest and largest child advocacy organization in the country.  It is our duty to advocate for the needs of our children, including and especially funding for our schools.  Public education advocacy is a nonpartisan issue.  PTA does not support any specific candidates or political parties.

      Tiger Talk Update 9.04.18

      September 4, 2018

      We need your help to make this year's Grandparents' Breakfast spectacular!! Please click on Grandparents' Breakfast Volunteers and sign up for a volunteer shift to help our grandparents and students have a wonderful breakfast!
       
      Below are some upcoming important dates:
       
      9/06 - Grandparent's Breakfast (students whose last names start with A-H) - Volunteers Needed
      9/07 - Grandparent's Breakfast (students whose last names start with I-Z) - Volunteers Needed
      9/07 - Grady Dad's Club meets for happy hour at 6pm
      9/10 - Chorus rehearsals begin
      9/20 - Grady Conference Night
      10/18 - Family Night at United Skates of America
      10/26 - Grady Fall Festival
      3/9/19 - Grady Auction Night at Christ the King
       

      Grady Dad's Club

      The Grady Dad's Club will be meeting for a happy hour on Friday, Sept 7th at 6pm at 81Bay located at 4465 W Gandy Blvd. If you plan on attending, please email Kevin Cowley at [email protected].

      Box Tops

      Please help us make it another great box top year!  Clip and send in unexpired box tops on the forms that were sent home or in clear ziploc-style bags, with a maximum of 50 Box Tops per bag. Grady will receive 10 cents for every Box Top collected and submitted.  Send in Box Tops between now and Sept 28, 2018.

      Backpack Full of Cash Screening

      Join us for a free screening of Backpack Full of Cash at Tampa Theatre on September 20th at 7:30pm. This is a free community event for all parents who want to learn more about the real costs of privatizing America's public schools. Click on Backpack Full of Cash for additional details.

      Grady PTA Membership
      Thank you to all of the families that have already signed up to join the Grady PTA! You can still sign up/renew your PTA membership online by clicking PTA Membership. Membership is only $6 for 1 person or $10 for 2 people. High membership allows us to participate in PTA programs such as Reflections Art. Signing up for the PTA does not commit you to any volunteering (although we always love having our families volunteer at the school!)

      Grady Tiger Partners

      Our newest Tiger Business Partners are: Bengal level partners Florida Hospital UC- Centra Care and South Tampa Kids Dental Krewe.

      Thank you to all of our Tiger partners! We very much appreciate your generosity. The Tiger partnerships help make a difference in our Grady classrooms by funding programs (including the after school tutoring program, teacher mini grants, student programs, music and art programs, and much more), delivering PTA events to our students, teachers and families (including the winter concert, Tiger Tears Breakfast, Storybook Parade and much more), and enhancing our Grady campus through grounds improvement projects. Become a Tiger Partner today! To learn more about Tiger Family and Business Partnerships, please click hereTiger Partnership Program.

      Tiger Talk Update 8.28.18

      August 28, 2018

      Today, Tuesday, Aug 28th is the last day to vote in the Primary Elections. To find your polling location, please click Precinct Finder. Four Hillsborough County School Board seats are on the ballot this election year. Please take a moment to review the candidate information found on the HCPS PTA website: http://hccptaptsa.org/candidateforum.

      Below are some upcoming important dates:

      9/03 - Labor Day - No School
      9/06 - Grandparent's Breakfast (students whose last names start with A-H) - Volunteers Needed
      9/07 - Grandparent's Breakfast (students whose last names start with I-Z) - Volunteers Needed
      9/10 - Chorus rehearsals begin
      9/20 - Conference Night
      10/18 - Family Night at United Skates of America
      10/26 - Grady Fall Festival

      We need your help to make this year's Grandparents' Breakfast spectacular!! Please click on Read More to see more details about the breakfast and sign up for a volunteer shift to help our grandparents and students have a wonderful breakfast!

      Thank you to our newest Tiger Family Partners: Red (Bengal) level partners The Christopher Family, The Fitzgerald Family, and Alfie, Ansel & Abbey Roush; and Green (cub) level partner The Harrop Family.

      Thank you to our newest Tiger Business Partner: Cougar level partner The Suarez Law Firm.

      Grandparents' Breakfast Volunteer Sign-Up now open!!!

      August 26, 2018 - September 7, 2018

      We need your help to make this year's Grandparents' Breakfast spectacular!! We aim to give our Grady Grandparents' the same incredible experience that we parents get to enjoy at our other Grady PTA functions. We look forward to seeing you there!

      If you would like to help, please click here!!

       

      ** Please don't forget that you must fill out a Hillsborough County Volunteer Form prior to participating at any PTA event. A new form must be submitted for the 2018/2019 school year **

      To access the Hillsborough County Volunteer Form, please click here. Once the page opens, click the green "APPLY" button located on the left hand side and complete the form.

      Grandparents are invited to join Grady students at Grady Elementary for the Grandparents' Breakfast.

      Two breakfasts will be held:

      Thursday, September 6th, for grandparents visiting students whose last names begin with the letters A through H;  and

      Friday, September 7th, for grandparents visiting students whose last names begin with the letters I through Z.

      Breakfast begins at 7:15 am and ends at 7:40 am. The Grandparents' Breakfast will be held in the cafeteria and will feature complimentary pastry, muffins, coffee, and orange juice for grandparents/parents and school breakfast for students.

      Volunteers will be needed. Click on Grandparent's Day Volunteers to sign up.

      We hope to see you at the breakfast!

      Tiger Talk Update 8.16.18

      August 16, 2018

      Today is the last day to sign up for After School Enrichment Club. Club signup will close at 6pm. Please click on Club Info for more details and click on Club Signup to register. The ASE Clubs start on Monday, August 20th.
      Below are some upcoming important dates. Our complete calendar of school and PTA events are posted on the website here.
       
      8/20 - ASE Clubs begin
      8/21 - Grady Girl Scout recruitment event for grades K-5 at 6:15pm in the cafeteria
      8/27 - "Independence Day" - new security procedures begin - all students will enter campus independently
      9/03 - Labor Day - No School
      9/06 - Grandparent's Breakfast for student's whose last names start with A-H
      9/07 - Grandparent's Breakfast for student's whose last names start with I-Z
      9/10 - Tiger Trot and Chorus rehearsals begin
      Thank you to all of the families that have already signed up to join the Grady PTA! You can still sign up/renew your PTA membership online by clicking PTA Membership. Membership is only $6 for 1 person or $10 for 2 people. It is important for Grady Elementary to have families sign up for membership so that the PTA has strength in numbers when lobbying for our children. High membership participation also allows us to participate in PTA programs such as Reflections Art. Signing up for the PTA does not commit you to any volunteering (although we always love having our families volunteer at the school!)

      Thank you to our new Tiger partners! We very much appreciate your generosity.  The Tiger partnerships help make a difference in our Grady classrooms by funding programs (including the after school tutoring program, teacher mini grants, student programs, music and art programs, and much more), delivering PTA events to our students, teachers and families (including the winter concert, Tiger Tears Breakfast, Storybook Parade and much more), and enhancing our Grady campus through grounds improvement projects. Become a Tiger Partner today! To learn more about Tiger Family and Business Partnerships, please click hereTiger Partnership Program.

      Our newest Tiger Family Partners areLeader of the Pack level partner, Drs. Siviero and Heather Agazzi and Red (Bengal) level partners The Gomez Family, The Jacobs Family, The Ledford Family and Fancy Nails. Thank you to all of our Tiger Family Partners! 

      New Security Procedures

      August 10, 2018

      Please click on New Security Procedures file below to read the notice on Grady's new security procedures for the 2018-19 school year.
      Grady Tigers

      Grady Elementary's Open House is scheduled for Wednesday, August 8, 2018 from 5:15-7:15pm.

      All parents, students, faculty and staff will meet in the cafeteria at 5:15pm.

      During Open House, you can sign up for PTA; spirit shirts and Teamworks uniform shirts will be on display; YMCA after school care information will be available; Girl Scouts sign up and information will be available; and free uniforms and uniform swap are available (while supplies last).

      Today is the last day of school.  School ends early at 11:45 am, with the fifth grade clap out at 11:30 am. We had an amazing year and celebrated our students’ accomplishments with various awards ceremonies at school this week. Congratulations to all of our students and thank you to our amazing faculty for helping them achieve so much!! Principal Dosal also announced that Grady was listed as #1 in the district’s TELL (Teaching, Empowering, Leading and Learning) survey!

      We hope that you all have a safe, happy summer.  For all of our returning students, we are excited to see you recharged and ready for another fun year.  For our 5th graders, congratulations! We are very proud of you and wish you all the best in middle school!

      To make your back to school shopping quick and easy, we are offering the SchoolKidz, School Supply Kit Program for the 2018-19 school year. SchoolKidz offers prepackaged school supply kits filled with the supplies requested per grade level (excluding backpack and nap mat).  Kits must be ordered prior to June 1, 2018. To order your kit, please go to www.shopttkits.com and enter account #36155. Shipping is already set to Grady Elementary School and there is no additional fee for taxes or shipping to the school. You can also view the school supply list here:  School Supply List.  Next year’s ASD program school supply list is available here:  ASD School Supply List.  

      Thank you to Grady’s 2017-18 Business and Family Tiger Partners.  These businesses and families donated over $25,000.00 to Grady PTA this year!  These donations funded programs (including the after school tutoring program, teacher mini grants, student programs, music and art programs, allowed us to begin purchasing laptop carts to upgrade our technology and much more), delivered PTA events to our students, teachers and families (including the winter concert, Tiger Tears Breakfast, Storybook Parade and much more), and enhanced our Grady campus through grounds improvement projects. Grady PTA recognizes and gratefully appreciates each of the following Family and Business Tiger Partners:

      Grady Tiger Business Partners:  State Farm Agent Jim Cornwell; Abdoney Orthodontics; South Tampa Pediatric Dentistry; South Tampa Kids Dental Krewe; After Hours Pediatrics;  Perez Orthodontics; Tampa Music School; Pediatric Dentistry by Dr. Jerry Copeland and Florida E.N.T. & Allergy.

      Grady Tiger Family Partners:  Drs. Siviero & Heather Agazzi; The Gibbs Family; The Lyons Family - Mike, Ellen, Frank & Nick; The Dan and Jessica Schentrup Family; The Zysk Family; The Enriquez Family; The Griffin Family - Drew, Jennifer, Roman & Cort; The Maheshwari Family; The Roush Family; The de la Garza Family; The Harrop Family; The Kendell Family; The Ledford Family; The Lopez Family; The Lorenz Family; Luke & Ryan Christopher; Fancy Nails; The Liu Family; Khoa Nguyen Family; Rafael Ortiz & Family; The Ruiz Family; and Dr. Sanjiv Sahoo & Dr. Chhavi Gupta. 

      Also, a sincere thank you to all of our PTA Board Members and all of the volunteers that participated during the 2017-18 school year! We are extremely appreciative of your time and support.

      Have a safe and happy summer!  We look forward to seeing everyone at Open House!

      Uniform Swap
      This week, we are collecting gently worn uniforms for the Uniform Exchange. Please bring your gently used uniforms to the Grady front office this Wednesday - Friday. We will sort the uniforms and have them for people to take during Open House.  

      We are officially in our last week of school!!! Today our students had their Yearbook signing and the Teacher vs Student Volleyball Game. We have an incredibly busy week with lots of fun year end events for our students. As a reminder, if you will be attending any events on campus, you need to bring a photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport, to obtain your visitor badge. 

      Here are some important upcoming dates to note:

      • 5/22 – 5th Grade Awards Ceremony and Pre-K Graduation
      • 5/23 – Awards Ceremony for K – 4th Grade in the Pavilion (By invitation only)
      • 5/24 – 5th Grade Banquet
      • 5/25 – Last Day of School – Class parties from 10:00 – 11:00 am

                             11:30 am 5th Grade Clap out, 11:45 am dismissal for Pre-K – 4th Grade

      • 6/1 – Last Day to order Schoolkidz Supply Kit for 2018-19 school year
      • 8/8 – Tentative Open House from 5:00-7:15pm
      • 8/10 – First day of 2018-19 school year

       

      Schoolkidz School Supply Kits

      We are offering the SchoolKidz, School Supply Kit Program for the 2018-19 school year to make your back to school shopping quick and easy! SchoolKidz offers prepackaged school supply kits filled with the supplies requested per grade level (excluding backpack and nap mat). The kits will be distributed in the students' classroom during open house. To see the full list of supplies included with each kit, please click on: Schoolkidz supplies

      Schoolkidz Kits must be ordered prior to June 1, 2018. To order your kit, please go to www.shopttkits.com and enter account #36155. Shipping is already set to Grady Elementary School and there is no additional fee for taxes or shipping to the school.

       

      South Tampa Basketball Camp

      Click here to learn more about the South Tampa Basketball Camp run at Grady Elementary by Guidance Counselor Mrs. Nancy Harris. The camp is open to girls and boys grades 1st-9th.

      Do you have a good book- one that you just loved?

      Help spread the love of reading by bringing that book and swapping it out for another one! 

      Things to know:

      • Bring your book to school on Thursday, May 17th
      • Students will be able to swap one book (even if they bring more). 
      • If you have several books-We would love the donation, as some students will not have a book to swap.  This gives everybody the opportunity to participate. 
      • Please bring high interest books that you think your friends would enjoy reading (such as Warrior, Dork Diaries, Harry Potter, Babysitter's Club, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, The One and Only Ivan, Smiles, I Survived, Nate the Great, Wonder, Battle Books, the list goes on and on)

      So, search your bookshelves, your rooms, the car, and even grandma’s house for a book to swap!

       

      Help spread the love of reading from one Reader to Another!

      This is an incredibly busy week for us as well. We have the Dad’s volunteer breakfast this Wednesday morning at 7:30am, Grady Summer book swap on Thursday, Spirit days all week for grades 1-5 and our last week of clubs for the school year. Click Read more to view all of the upcoming events. Remember, next Friday, May 25th is the last day of school!

      We are offering the SchoolKidz, School Supply Kit Program for the 2018-19 school year to make your back to school shopping quick and easy! Schoolkidz Kits must be ordered prior to June 1, 2018. To order your kit, please go to www.shopttkits.com and enter account #36155. Shipping is already set to Grady Elementary School and there is no additional fee for taxes or shipping to the school.
      This is a very busy week for Grady Elementary. We have our Spring Concert tonight, Teacher & Staff Appreciation events all week, and the Coleman Informational Meeting for fifth grade parents at Coleman Middle School on Wednesday night.

      We still need gift card donations for the teacher appreciation raffle on Wednesday, May 9th. Please drop off any gift cards at the front office by Tuesday, May 8th or contact Lauren Fitzgerald at [email protected].

      Tonight is the I love the 80’s Spring Concert - Lenny’s subs will be hosting a Grady Family night from 5-8:00 pm tonight. Please let Lenny’s know you are with Grady and they will donate 15% of sales to Grady.

      We are excited to see our 1st and 2nd grade students, as well as the 3rd, 4th and 5th grade chorus members perform! The PTA meeting will begin at 5:30pm and the concert begins at 6:00pm. Students need to be dressed in their most rad 80’s clothing! Click Read More for more details and a schedule of the day’s activities.

      Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week

      Our Teacher & Staff Appreciation week starts today! To see the full details and schedule, please click Read More.

      There are many ways you can participate to show our teachers and staff they are out of this world!

      · Tomorrow, Tuesday, May 8th is School Supply Day. To view the requested supplies, click here: Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week.
      · We need gift card donations for the teacher appreciation raffle on Wednesday, May 9th. Please drop off any gift cards at the front office by May 8th or contact Lauren Fitzgerald at [email protected].

      · Thursday, May 10th please have your child write cards to their teachers and favorite staff members. A copy of the card was sent home in your child’s folder and is available on the website here: Teacher Appreciation Card.
      · Finally, the Blast Off Breakfast is on May 11th. Thank you to all of the families that signed up to bring food!
      Thanks for supporting our stellar teachers and staff!
      supplies

      We are happy to announce that we are offering the SchoolKidz, School Supply Kit Program for the 2018-19 school year to make your back to school shopping quick and easy! SchoolKidz offers prepackaged school supply kits filled with the supplies requested per grade level (excluding backpack and nap mat). The kits will arrive to Grady with each student’s name and grade level prior to the first day of school. They will be distributed in the students' classroom during open house.

      Schoolkidz Kits must be ordered prior to June 1, 2018. To order your kit, please go to www.shopttkits.com and enter account #36155. You will then be prompted to select the grade level your child will be entering in August 2018. The shipping is already set to Grady Elementary School and there is no additional fee for taxes or shipping to the school.

      Please note that the kits only include the supplies listed under components/description, but you can add items for your student including a backpack, lunch box, nap mat, water bottles and food jars. You can also add donation items for your child's class including Kleenex, disinfecting wipes, hand sanitizer, copy paper and sandwich bags to your order. 

      To see the full list of supplies included with each kit, please click on: Schoolkidz supplies.

      Please contact Norma Maiz with any questions at [email protected].

      Click on Grady School Supplies to view the full list of supplies for the 2018-19 school year. Click on ASD School Supplies to view the supplies for our ASD students. 

      Tiger Talk Update 4.25.18

      April 25, 2018

      Here are some important upcoming dates to note:

      5/7 – I love the 80’s Spring Concert - The PTA General Meeting begins at 5:30 pm and the show will begin shortly thereafter. Lenny’s subs will be hosting a Grady Family night from 5-8:00 pm the night of the concert. Please let Lenny’s know you are with Grady and they will donate 15% of sales to Grady.
      5/7-11 – Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week
      5/9 – DATE CHANGED - Coleman Informational Meeting for fifth grade parents. Please see below for more details.
      5/16 – Dads breakfast at 7:30 am – This breakfast is for our Grady dads only (students can go to Tiger Trot or can have breakfast in the cafeteria).

      Please note that the Book Fair will remain open until 6:00pm today. Tomorrow, April 17th is the last day of the Book Fair and it will be open from 7:45am until 3:45pm. The Book Fair is also available online until April 18.  Click on this link to learn more:  Grady Book Fair Page. Thank you to all of our volunteers and everyone that has purchased books!

       

      Here are some important upcoming dates to note:  

      • 5/7 – Spring ConcertThe PTA General Meeting begins at 5:30 pm and the show will begin shortly thereafter. Lenny’s subs will be hosting a Grady Family night from 5-8pm the night of the concert. Please let Lenny’s know you are with Grady and they will donate 15% of sales to Grady.
      • 5/7-11 – Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week – We will be sending a flyer home with the details this week.
      • 5/9 – Coleman Informational Meeting for fifth grade parents. Please see below for more details.

      Coleman Middle School

      Attention Fifth Grade Parents, Coleman PTSA is seeking committee members, please review the attached link for information.  Coleman PTSA Committee Positions. Coleman Middle School is having an informational meeting for all fifth grade parents on May 9 at 6:30 pm at Coleman Middle School.

       

      Hillsborough County PTA Award Winners

      We are very excited to announce that Miss Trupp won Hillsborough County PTA Teacher of the Year and Ellen Lyons won the Hillsborough County PTA Volunteer of the Year at the Hillsborough County PTA Awards on April 12th! Congratulations! Please click here to view pictures from the Awards Ceremony.

       

      Yearbook 

      Yearbooks are still available on a first come first serve basis and cost $25/Softback Yearbook and $30/Hardback Yearbook. The deadline to order online has already passed. To order a yearbook, please email [email protected]

       

      South Tampa Basketball Camp

      Click here to learn more about the South Tampa Basketball Camp run at Grady Elementary by Guidance Counselor Mrs. Nancy Harris. The camp is open to girls and boys grades 1st-9th.

       

      Summer Art Camps at Grady

      Click here to learn about the 3 different week long themed art camps hosted by Debonique Grigsby, who is the Grady art teacher. Space is limited as each session will be capped at only 20 campers. Camps will be open to K-5th grade students in the South Tampa area.

       

      Grady Volunteer Breakfast

      Thank you to the Grady Administration and Teachers for providing a wonderful breakfast for our volunteers on April 6th. Thank you so much to all of our amazing volunteers this year! Please click here to see pictures.

      The Grady Spring Book Fair opened today and runs through April 17! The Book Fair is a great way to get kids excited about reading and to buy some great summer reads!  Also, you have the opportunity to donate books to your teachers' classroom.

      We have extended the Book Fair hours to allow for extra shopping time after clubs, with later hours on Monday for families attending aftercare. The new hours are as follows:

      Thursday, April 12th – 7:45am – 3:45pm

      Friday, April 13th – 7:45am – 2:45pm

      Monday, April 16th – 7:45am – 6:00pm

      Tuesday, April 17th –7:45am – 3:45pm

       

      In lieu of sending kids with cash, please consider using the new eWallet feature. For more information, please click on eWallet.

      The Book Fair is also available online from April 5 until April 18.  Click on this link to learn more:  Grady Book Fair Page.

      Please volunteer at the Grady Spring Book Fair. To see the book fair volunteer schedule and sign up online, please click here:  Volunteer At The Book FairThank you to everyone who has already volunteered!

      Please note that the Spring Concert date has been rescheduled to May 7thWe apologize for the last minute change, but it was due to circumstances beyond our control.   

      Our Book Fair starts on Wednesday, April 11th with a preview day tomorrow.

      Here are some important upcoming dates to note:

      • 5/7 – Spring Concert - The PTA General Meeting begins at 5:30 pm and the show will begin shortly thereafter. Lenny’s subs will be hosting a Grady Family night from 5-8pm the night of the concert. Please let Lenny’s know you are with Grady and they will donate 15% of sales to Grady.
      • 5/7-11 – Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week 

      After School Enrichment Clubs

      Our final session of spring clubs start today and run for 6 weeks. Please contact Norma Maiz with any club-related questions at [email protected].

      Grady Book Fair

      The Grady Spring Book Fair starts April 11 and runs through April 17 from 7:45 am until 2:45 pm each day in Room 4.  Preview day is April 10 from 7:45 am until 2:45 pm. The late night has been cancelled due to the Spring Concert date change, but the Book Fair is also online from April 5 until April 18.  Click on this link to learn more:  Grady Book Fair Page.

      We need volunteers to make the Grady Spring Book Fair a success.  To see the book fair volunteer schedule and sign up online, please click here:  Volunteer At The Book Fair. Thank you to everyone who has already registered! 

      Yearbook

      Yearbooks are still available on a first come first serve basis and cost $25/Softback Yearbook and $30/Hardback Yearbook. April 15th is the last day for yearbook online sales to insure that students receive their yearbooks in time for signing day. To buy a yearbook for your child, go to http://www.strawbridge.net/order-online/ and use online code: 112045. 

      South Tampa Basketball Camp

      Click here to learn more about the South Tampa Basketball Camp run at Grady Elementary by Guidance Counselor Mrs. Nancy Harris. The camp is open to girls and boys grades 1st-9th

      Summer Art Camps at Grady

      Click here to learn about the 3 different week long themed art camps hosted by Debonique Grigsby, who is the Grady art teacher. Space is limited as each session will be capped at only 20 campers. Camps will be open to K-5th grade students in the South Tampa area.

      Congratulations to Jaime Gallo for winning the Summer Art camp drawing for an Amazon Echo Dot for signing Grayson McKenzie up by April 6th!!

      Autism Awareness

      Thank you to our students for wearing blue for Autism Awareness Day! Please click on Autism Awareness Photo to view the picture.

      Purchase Legoland Florida Resort tickets from now until April 30th for $40 each.  For every ticket sold, Legoland Florida Resort will donate $10 to Autism Speaks.  Tickets must be used between 4/1/18-5/31/18. To learn more about this offer and to purchase your tickets click here.

      Tomorrow (Thursday, April 5th) is the last day to register for our next session of After School Enrichment Clubs!  Clubs will run from April 9th for 6 weeks. To view details about the clubs offered and to enroll in the ASEC go to: https://gradytigers.org/ase-club-signup.

      Yearbooks are still available on a first come first serve basis and cost $25/Softback Yearbook and $30/Hardback Yearbook. April 15th is the last day for yearbook online sales to guarantee that students receive their yearbooks in time for signing day. To buy a yearbook for your child, go to http://www.strawbridge.net/order-online/ and use online code: 112045.

      Tiger Talk Update 3.28.18

      March 28, 2018

      Families please come and watch the Plant High School Drumline perform tonight. It’s a fun event for the kids – an open practice showcasing the upcoming percussion competition performance and then drumline cadences. Click Plant High Drumline Performance for more details.

      This week is our Nothing Bundt Cakes Fundraiser benefiting the 5th grade banquet. Grady will receive 20% of all purchases made through Saturday when you present the Grady Elementary Fundraiser flyer. It applies to in-store purchases and phone/online orders. Order some delicious cakes, bundtlets or bundtinis for your holiday celebration and help support the 5th grade banquet!

       Here are some important upcoming dates to note:

      • 3/30 – Good Friday (No School) 
      • 4/2 – Wear blue for Autism Awareness 
      • 4/11 – Spring Concert - The PTA General Meeting begins at 5:30 pm and the show will begin shortly thereafter. There will be a donation only bake sale to benefit the 5th grade end of year banquet.
      • 4/11-17 – Grady Book Fair – Runs daily from 7:45am-2:45pm with special night time shopping hours during the Spring Concert from 4:00-7:30pm. We need volunteers. Please click Volunteer At The Book Fair to view the volunteer schedule and sign up online.
      • 5/7-11 – Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week

       

      After School Enrichment Clubs

      Registration for our next session of clubs is open!  Clubs will run from April 9th for 6 weeks. To view details about the clubs offered and to enroll in the After School Enrichment Clubs go to: https://gradytigers.org/ase-club-signup.

      Grady Book Fair

      The Grady Spring Book Fair starts April 11 and runs through April 17 from 7:45 am until 2:45 pm each day.  Preview day is April 10 from 7:45 am until 2:45 pm.  During the Spring Concert on April 11th, there will also be special night time shopping hours from 4:00 pm until 7:30 pm.

      The Book Fair is also online from April 5 until April 18.  Click on this link to see learn more:  Grady Book Fair Page.

      We need volunteers to make the Grady Spring Book Fair a success.  To see the book fair volunteer schedule and sign up online, please click here:  Volunteer At The Book Fair.

      Yearbook

      Yearbooks are still available on a first come first serve basis and cost $25/Softback Yearbook and $30/Hardback Yearbook. To buy a yearbook for your child, go to http://www.strawbridge.net/order-online/ and use online code: 112045.

      South Tampa Basketball Camp

      Click here to learn more about the South Tampa Basketball Camp run at Grady Elementary by Guidance Counselor Mrs. Nancy Harris. The camp is open to girls and boys grades 1st-9th.

      Home & School Connection

      Guidance Counselor, Mrs. Nancy Harris, asks us to read the April Home & School Connection.

      This week is our Nothing Bundt Cakes Fundraiser benefiting the 5th grade banquet. 

      Grady will receive 20% of all purchases made through Saturday, March 31st when you present the Grady Elementary Fundraiser flyer (attached below). It applies to in-store purchases and phone/online orders.

      Order some delicious cakes, bundtlets or bundtinis for your holiday celebration and help support the 5th grade banquet!

      Tiger Talk Update 3.9.18

      March 9, 2018

      Great news - we raised over $11,300.00 to help support the American Heart Association this year!!  We surpassed our goal by over $5,000 and made it the best record breaking year so far. The Top Student was Leila Goodwin in Mrs. Horne's 1st Grade class.  Ms. Murrell says thank you to all of the PTA and Parent Volunteers for their support.  I could not have done it without them.  Thank you so much! 

      Here are some important upcoming dates to note:

      • 3/12-16 – Spring Break (No School) 
      • 3/22 – Spring Pictures – Have your child wear bright colored clothes (it is a non-uniform school day) 
      • 3/30 – Good Friday (No School) 
      • 4/11 – Spring Musical  

      Yearbooks 

      This is the last week to buy yearbooks! To buy a yearbook for your child, go to http://www.strawbridge.net/order-online/ and use online code: 112045.

      We need your pictures to include in our Yearbook! Parents, please send pictures of the following events to [email protected]: 1st grade Plant high school field trip, Grady Boy Scouts, and Teachers supporting students at school events. The first pictures received to complete these pages will be included in the Yearbook.    

      After School Enrichment Clubs

      Our Winter Session of After School Enrichment Clubs has concluded. The next session of clubs will begin on April 9th. ELP is scheduled to run on Wednesdays and Thursdays through April 5th.

      Grady Auction Hoedown Update

      We have amazing news – we finished collecting from our auction winners and we have raised $18,000 from the auction, before expenses!! We are still finalizing expenses and will be able to let you know how many computers we are able to purchase as a result of your generosity! Thanks again to everyone who participated in our inaugural Auction Night!

      Also, one of our parents lost a cowboy hat at the auction. Please contact me if you find it.

      Plant High Drumline Performance

      Families, please come and watch the Plant High School Drumline perform on March 28. It’s a fun event for the kids – an open practice showcasing the upcoming percussion competition performance and then drumline cadences.  Kids will get to interact with the drumline too.  The admission price is only $5 to help defray the costs of the drumline’s competition season.  Please help support the Plant High Drumline.  The drumline is battling for first place in the state in its class.  http://gradytigers.org/2018/3/watch-the-plant-drumline-on-march-28 

       

      Home & School Connection

      Guidance Counselor, Ms. Nancy Harris, asks us to read the March Home & School Connection.

      Thank you again for all of your support and have a wonderful spring break!

      Thank you to everyone who participated in our inaugural Grady Auction Night! It was an incredibly fun evening, with amazing country decor, a fun photo booth, energetic DJ, delicious barbecue, fantastic drinks, amazing auction items and our wonderful Grady parents, teachers and staff!!  To see some pictures of the event, please click here:  Auction Pictures.  

      We are still finalizing the numbers, but it is fair to say that the event raised more than enough money for another laptop cart.

      Grady PTA thanks William and Elizabeth Woodroffe for preparing and donating the delicious BBQ pork, hamburgers, Cole slaw and other food at the event.  Grady PTA thanks event sponsors Salty Rim Grill for providing liquor, Blind Goat for providing beverages, Bloom Garden Shop for providing the beautiful centerpieces and floral decorations, Cakes Plus for making a beautiful and delicious cake, Eats! and 3 C’s Catering for providing food and beverages for the event, and Chick-fil-A for providing tea and lemonade.  The event has been an incredible financial success because of the generosity of our event sponsors.

      Thank you so much to our auction committee that planned the event, all of our attendees and all of our amazing sponsors and donors!!  Our event was a huge success thanks to all of you!   Grady PTA particularly wishes to thank Jaime Patterson and Jacquelyn Hardin, who co-produced the event, as well as Lynn Bennett, Pam LaCrosse, Sandra Richmond, Kristin Keller, Aimee Feldman, Josette Delaney, Lauren Fitzgerald, Julie Alexander, Maria Lopez,  Arwen Guida, who served as the committee for the event; and Denim Richmond, Analisa Whiteside, Tricia Mason, Tim Bresnahan, Barbie Blank and Damaris Allen, who volunteered at the event.

      Congratulations to the auction and raffle winners.  All winners have been notified.  We are still in the process of paying expenses and collecting from auction winners, but we will know the financial results in a few days and we look forward to sharing the results with you.  We are so glad to be part of a wonderful, generous school community.

      Tiger Talk Update 2.27.18

      February 27, 2018

      Our Auction Night/Hoedown is coming up in just 4 days!!! Buy your tickets today here. We have some amazing auction and raffle items available. Raffle tickets are being sold during drop off this week. Tickets are $1 each, $5 for 7 and $10 for 15. You can purchase the raffle tickets in cash or via credit card. You do not have to be present to win the raffle. 

      Here are some important upcoming dates to note:

      It will be a very fun night with a DJ, delicious food and drinks, and lots of great items to bid on including a birthday party at The Prep, a beach house rental at Indian Shores, 10 pack of CycleBar classes, and private QB lessons from an NFL quarterback!

      All of the funds that we raise during Auction Night will help us continue to update our school’s technology and purchase more computers. Please come out to the Auction, have a great time and help us improve Grady’s technology. If you can’t attend, but would still like to donate, please go to our Auction Donation Page. 

      • 3/12-16 – Spring Break (No School)  
      • 3/30 – Good Friday (No School) 
      • 4/11 – Spring Musical  

      Yearbooks

      Yearbooks are on sale! Make sure that you purchase your yearbook by March to insure that your child will have a yearbook for yearbook signing day. To buy a yearbook for your child, go to http://www.strawbridge.net/order-online/ and use online code: 112045. 

      We need your pictures to include in our Yearbook! Parents, please send pictures of the following events to [email protected]: Student of the month, 1st grade field trip, student competitions, Grady Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, and Grady teams (including math bowl, STEM and Tropicana speeches). All pictures must be submitted by March 4th. 

      The 5th grade Yearbook ads have been completed and are no longer available for purchase. 

      After School Enrichment Clubs

      March 9th is the last day of our Winter Session of After School Enrichment Clubs. The next session of clubs will begin on April 9th and will run for 6 weeks. Registration for the Spring Session will open the week of March 19th. We will offer our current list of clubs, plus we are adding Yoga! We will have a K-1st Yoga club and 2nd-4th Grade Yoga club. There will also be a Spring cooking special session in March. Stay tuned for more details!

      Please note that ELP is scheduled to run on Wednesdays and Thursdays through April 5th.

      Playgrounds is running a Facebook contest to show your school spirit, with the winning school getting a Family Fun Night. Please like their Facebook page and vote for Grady through February 28th!!

      Tiger Talk Update 2.22.18

      February 22, 2018

      Jump Rope for Heart is tomorrow, February 23rd! We urgently need volunteers, especially for the Kindergarten/McAlister group at 9 am and 5th Grade/Eveland group at 10 am. Please sign up for a 50 minute shift to help monitor stations (including hurdles, a bounce house and more), serve water and turn jump ropes for our kids during this very fun field day. To view the full schedule and sign up to volunteer, please click on Jump Rope For Heart volunteers.  

      Friday is also the last day to bring in your box tops this year. Please submit your box top flyer or clear ziploc-style bag, with a maximum of 50 unexpired Box Tops per bag. Grady will receive 10 cents for every Box Top collected and submitted.  We need volunteers to sort and organize the Box Tops on Tuesday, February 27th from 8:00-8:30am. To volunteer, email Kat Cowley, Box Top Coordinator, at [email protected].  

      Our Auction Night/Hoedown is coming up in just over a week!!! Buy your tickets today here. We have some amazing auction and raffle items available. Raffle tickets are being sold during drop off on February 26-March 2nd. Tickets are $1 each, $5 for 7 and $10 for 15. You can purchase the raffle tickets in cash or via credit card. You do not have to be present to win the raffle.

       

      Here are some important upcoming dates to note:

      • 2/23 – Jump Rope for Heart & Last day to submit Box Tops
      • 2/27 – Volunteers are needed from 8:00-8:30 am to sort and organize Box Tops. Please meet in the Teacher’s Lounge. To volunteer, email Kat Cowley at [email protected].  

      It will be a very fun night with a DJ, delicious food and drinks, and lots of great items to bid on including a birthday party at The Prep, a beach house rental at Indian Shores, 10 pack of CycleBar classes, and private QB lessons from an NFL quarterback!

      All of the funds that we raise during Auction Night will help us continue to update our school’s technology and purchase more computers. Please come out to the Auction, have a great time and help us improve Grady’s technology. If you can’t attend, but would still like to donate, please go to our Auction Donation Page.

      • 3/12-16 – Spring Break (No School) 

       

      Yearbooks

      Yearbooks are on sale! Make sure that you purchase your yearbook by March to insure that your child will have a yearbook for yearbook signing day. To buy a yearbook for your child, go to http://www.strawbridge.net/order-online/ and use online code: 112045.

      We need your pictures to include in our Yearbook! Parents, please send pictures of the following events to [email protected]: Holiday celebrations, K-3 field trips, Student of the Month, academic achievements and pictures from special classroom activities.

      There is a limited amount of 5th grade ads still available on a first come, first serve basis. To buy a yearbook ad for your 5th grader, go to: https://gradytigers.org/fifth-grade-yearbook-ads. Once you have purchased the ad, please send the pictures and text you would like included in the ad to [email protected].

       

      After School Enrichment Clubs

      March 9th is the last day of our Winter Session of After School Enrichment Clubs. The next session of clubs will begin on April 9th.  

      ELP is scheduled to run on Wednesdays and Thursdays through April 5th.

      Jump Rope for Heart is this Friday, February 23rd! We urgently need volunteers to sign up for a 50 minute shift to help monitor stations (including hurdles, a bounce house and more), serve water and turn jump ropes for our kids during this very fun field day. To view the full schedule and sign up to volunteer, please click on Jump Rope For Heart volunteers.  

       

      We only have 3 more days to collect box tops this year! We would love to have each student turn in at least one completed box top flyer or one clear ziploc-style bag, with a maximum of 50 unexpired Box Tops per bag. Grady will receive 10 cents for every Box Top collected and submitted by Friday, February 23rd.

       

      Our Auction Night/Hoedown is coming up in a week and a half!!! Buy your tickets today here for only $25 per person including 2 drink tickets. Remember, prices will go up to $30 per person with no drink tickets at the door. We have some amazing auction and raffle items available!! Click here to see some sample auction and raffle items. 

       

      Raffle tickets are being sold during drop off next week from February 26-March 2nd. Tickets are $1 each, $5 for 7 and $10 for 15. You do not have to be present at the auction to win the raffle.

       

      All of the funds raised during Auction Night will help us continue to update our school's technology and purchase more computers. Please come to the auction and enjoy a great night! If you can’t attend, but would still like to donate, please go to our Auction Donation Page

      We are only 16 days away from Grady’s Adults only Auction and Hoedown on March 3rdThe Auction is from 6-10pm at the Christ the King Mary Martha Center.

      Buy your tickets today at www.gradytigers.org/auction! Pre-sale tickets are only $25 per person and include delicious food and 2 drink tickets. The price will go up at the door - tickets will cost $30 per person and do not include any free drink tickets.

      Raffle baskets will be available tonight at Conference Night, as well as February 26 – March 2nd during drop off. Tickets are $1 each, 7 for $5 or 15 for $10. You can buy raffle tickets even if you can’t attend Auction Night – you do not need to be present to win the raffle.

      Raffle items include: a birthday party at Altitudes, basket of coffees and teas, wine and dine basket with 6 bottles of wine, $75 gift card to Acropolis, gift card to Mini Donut Factory and cheese knives with a serving chalkboard.

      At Auction Night, we will have fantastic auction items including a birthday party at The Prep, a beach house rental at Indian Shores, 10 pack of CycleBar classes, and private QB lessons from an NFL quarterback! We also have amazing baskets donated by our classes.

      To see more auction/raffle items, please click here


      Don’t miss this opportunity to mingle with other Grady parents at this fun, relaxed event.  We will have a DJ, great food, drinks and lots of great items to bid on to help raise funds to upgrade the technology at our school!

      We can’t wait to see you there!

      Thank you, Grady Parents, Teachers and Partners!   Thanks to all of you our PTA has just purchased, and Grady Elementary will soon receive, 37 laptops on a portable laptop cart! 

      The idea of the laptop cart is to make it easier for our school to deliver the newest technology to our students.  The laptop cart will allow the computers to go from classroom to classroom, so that the computers can be utilized by more students during a single school day. 

      The computers will be used to teach the i-Ready computer-based curriculum.  The i-Ready program is a research-based, classroom-proven program that helps educators effectively address the diverse needs of every student.  The award-winning products include reading, mathematics, intervention, language arts, test prep, special education, early childhood, and more.  The laptops will also be used to facilitate student testing because more and more tests are being given on computers. 

      We applaud our parents, teachers and our Tiger Partners, especially the Agazzi Family which donated $3,000 to this project.  We are also grateful to the administration for suggesting this purchase.  We are all helping to bring state-of the-art educational tools to our school.

      Tiger Talk Update 2.8.18

      February 8, 2018

      Here are some important upcoming dates to note:

      • 2/9 – Non-Student Day (Florida State Fair Day)

      • 2/15 – Grady Conference Night – please ensure that you have signed up for a conference time with your teacher(s). The PTA is providing our hardworking teachers with dinner on Conference Night. We will also have a table set up where you can purchase your Auction Night tickets and sign up for PTA membership.

      • 2/23 - Jump Rope for Heart & Field Day – Jump Rope For Heart is a fun field day that has kids jumping rope, running and jumping over hurdles and bouncing in a bounce house.  In addition to fun, students will learn about heart health and the importance of a good diet. Today was our big kick off for Jump Rope For Heart! Our students received their fundraising packets and can begin their efforts to raise money for the American Heart Association. If you have any questions, please email Ms. Murrell at [email protected]l.us.

         We are in need of volunteers for Station Monitors, Water, Rope Turners and Clean Up on February 23rd. To volunteer for a 50        minute shift, please click on Jump Rope For Heart volunteers.  

      • 3/3 – Grady’s adult only Auction Night at Christ the KingClick here to purchase tickets for our very fun Country themed auction night for only $25 per person, which includes 2 free drink tickets. It will be a very fun night with a DJ, delicious food and drinks, and lots of great items to bid on including a birthday party at The Prep, a beach house rental at Indian Shores, 10 pack of CycleBar classes, and private QB lessons from an NFL quarterback!

         All of the funds that we raise during Auction Night will help us continue to update our school’s technology and purchase     more computers. Please come out to the Auction, have a great time and help us improve Grady’s technology. If you can’t        attend, but would still like to donate, please go to our Auction Donation Page.

      Florida State Fair Art Display 

      We invite everyone to come out and celebrate African-American History Month at the Florida State Fair. There will be amazing artwork on display by our Grady Tigers. The exhibit will be up February 8th-19th inside the Florida Center. Please come out to support our art program.

       

      Yearbooks

      Yearbooks are on sale! Make sure that you purchase your yearbook by March to insure that your child will have a yearbook for yearbook signing day. To buy a yearbook for your child, go to http://www.strawbridge.net/order-online/ and use online code: 112045.

      We need your pictures to include in our Yearbook! Parents, please send pictures of the following events to [email protected]: Holiday celebrations, 4th grade heritage, 4th grade St. Augustine Field Trip, K-3 field trips, and pictures from special classroom activities.

       

      Box Tops

      Please help us make it another great box top year!  Clip and send in unexpired box tops in clear ziploc-style bags, with a maximum of 50 Box Tops per bag. Grady will receive 10 cents for every Box Top collected and submitted.  Please send in Box Tops between now and February 23, 2018.

       

      Thank you again for all of your support!

      Tiger Talk Update 1.30.18

      January 30, 2018

      Thank you to everyone who attended our special General Assembly PTA meeting on January 26th! At the meeting, we amended our budget to add a $10,000 expense line item to begin updating technology at Grady. 

       

      Here are some important upcoming dates to note:

      • 1/31 – Class Pictures & Last day to purchase 5th grade yearbook ads
      • 2/6 – Chick-fil-A Spirit night from 4-8pm at 609 S Dale Mabry Hwy. This spirit night will benefit the 5th grade end of year activities.
      • 2/9 – Non-Student Day (Florida State Fair Day)
      • 2/23 - Jump Rope for Heart & Field Day – Jump Rope For Heart is a fun field day that has kids jumping rope, running and jumping over hurdles and bouncing in a bounce house.  In addition to fun, students will learn about heart health and the importance of a good diet.  Jump Rope For Heart also has a fundraising component that raises money for the American Heart Association and raises money for athletic equipment for Grady Elementary.  You will be receiving detailed information about the program and how to fund raise shortly. If you have any questions about JRFH in the meantime, please email Ms. Murrell at [email protected].

         It will be a very fun night with a DJ, delicious food and drinks, and lots of great items to bid on to     raise funds to update our school’s technology! Some of the fantastic auction items available that       evening include a birthday party at The Prep, a beach house rental at Indian Shores, 10 pack of         CycleBar classes, and private QB lessons from an NFL quarterback! 

        If you have any items you can donate for the auction, please contact Julie Alexander         at [email protected].

       

      Yearbooks

      5th grade ads are on sale until tomorrow, January 31, 2018. To buy a yearbook ad for your child, go to: https://gradytigers.org/fifth-grade-yearbook-ads. Please note that ads can only be purchased for 5th graders. Once you have purchased the ad, please send the pictures and text you would like included in the ad to [email protected].

      Yearbooks are on sale! Make sure that you purchase your yearbook by March to insure that your child will have a yearbook for yearbook signing day. To buy a yearbook for your child, go to http://www.strawbridge.net/order-online/ and use online code: 112045.

      We need your pictures to include in our Yearbook! Parents, please send pictures of the following events to [email protected]: Holiday celebrations, 4th grade heritage, 4th grade St. Augustine Field Trip, K-3 field trips, and pictures from special classroom activities.

       

      Box Tops 

      Please help us make it another great box top year!  Clip and send in unexpired box tops in clear ziploc-style bags, with a maximum of 50 Box Tops per bag. Grady will receive 10 cents for every Box Top collected and submitted.  Please send in Box Tops between now and February 23, 2018.

      Tiger Talk Update 01.19.18

      January 19, 2018

      Thank you to everyone that attended our Unlock the Treasures of Reading Night yesterday! Special thanks to all of the guest readers from Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla and the Grady staff that helped make the event possible!!

      Here are some important upcoming dates to note:

      • 1/22 – Spring Chorus Rehearsals commence for grades 3, 4 & 5. For additional information and to download a copy of the permission form, please click here: Grady Spring Chorus.
      • 1/26  There will be a special General Assembly PTA meeting on Friday, January 26th at 8am at the flagpole in front of the school. We want to amend the budget to add a $10,000 expense line item for technology. Thanks to the success of our Sponsorship program and Tiger Trek, we will be able to update technology at the school.
      • 1/26  Kindergarten Roundup at 8:30 am in the Media Center – Parents, Grandparents and children are welcome to attend the program for incoming Kindergartners.  Attendees will hear from School administrators and Grady Kindergarten teachers and will receive a tour of the Kindergarten classrooms. Please share this information with friends who have kids that are eligible to attend Kindergarten at Grady and encourage them to attend. No RSVP is necessary.
      • 1/31 – Class Pictures
      • 2/9 – Non-Student Day (Florida State Fair Day)
      • 2/23 - Jump Rope for Heart & Field Day – Jump Rope For Heart is a fun field day that has kids jumping rope, running and jumping over hurdles and bouncing in a bounce house.  In addition to fun, students will learn about heart health and the importance of a good diet.  Jump Rope For Heart also has a fundraising component that raises money for the American Heart Association and raises money for athletic equipment for Grady Elementary.  You will be receiving detailed information about the program and how to fund raise shortly. If you have any questions about JRFH in the meantime, please email Ms. Murrell at [email protected].
      • 3/3 – Grady’s adult only Auction Night at Christ the King. Click here to purchase tickets for our very fun Country themed auction night for only $25 per person, which includes 2 free drink tickets. Please note that tickets sold at the door will be $30 each and will not include any drink tickets. 

      To donate items for the auction, please contact Julie Alexander at [email protected].

       

      Yearbooks

      Yearbooks are on sale! Make sure that you purchase your yearbook by March to insure that your child will have a yearbook for yearbook signing day. To buy a yearbook for your child, go to http://www.strawbridge.net/order-online/ and use online code: 112045.

      5th grade ads are also on sale until January 31, 2018. To buy a yearbook ad for your child go to: https://gradytigers.org/fifth-grade-yearbook-ads. Please note that ads can only be purchased for 5th graders.

      Barnes & Noble Family Reading Night

      Thanks again to the families that participated in our Barnes & Noble Family Night of Reading in December. We raised $575.07 during the event, which will be used for our Teacher Appreciation Week.

      Box Tops

      Thank you to all of the families that submitted Box Tops in Fall. We raised $592.80, which is used for teacher mini grants, student supplies and classroom needs. 

      Please help us make it another great box top year!  Clip and send in unexpired box tops in clear ziploc-style bags, with a maximum of 50 Box Tops per bag. Grady will receive 10 cents for every Box Top collected and submitted.  Please send in Box Tops between now and February 23, 2018.

       

      Mini Grants

      In January, the PTA approved $169 in teacher mini grants for ASD Special Education software that was previously purchased by Hillsborough County, but wasn’t renewed this year. So far, over $6,322.66 in teacher mini grants have been approved this school year.

      Home & School Connection

      Guidance Counselor, Ms. Nancy Harris, asks us to read the January Home & School Connection.

      Thank you again for all of your support. It makes all the impactful things we do at Grady possible!

      On Thursday, January 18th from 6:00-7:00pm is our annual Unlock the Treasures of Reading Night, also known as Grady Pirate Night. 

      Parents and children are invited to this event.  Children will go to classrooms and enjoy stories read by pirates from local krewes.  Parents of students in grades 3-5 will go to the Media Center for the FSA Information Session and parents of students in grades K-2 will go to the cafeteria for a Reading Essentials Information Session. 

      The kids will have a blast and they are invited to dress as pirates or wear pajamas. There will be free books, beads, juice and cookies. Please don’t miss this important event.

      Tiger Talk Update 1.9.18

      January 9, 2018

      Welcome back to school! We hope everyone had a wonderful Winter Break!

      Please note there are no After School Enrichment Clubs this week. Our ASE Clubs will resume on Tuesday, January 16th.

      Here are some important upcoming dates to note:

      •    1/15 – Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday – Non student day
      •    1/16 – After School Enrichment Clubs resume
      •    1/18 – Pirate Reading Night at Grady from 6:00-7:00pm
      •    1/22 – Spring Chorus Rehearsals commence for grades 3, 4 & 5. For additional information and to download a copy of the permission form, please click here: Grady Spring Chorus.
      •    1/26 – Kindergarten Roundup
      •    1/31 – Class Pictures
      •    3/3 –  Grady’s adult only Auction Night at Christ the King. Click here to purchase tickets. To donate items for the auction, please contact Julie Alexander at [email protected].

      Yearbooks are on sale! To buy a yearbook for your child, go to http://www.strawbridge.net/order-online/ and use online code: 112045. Buy it before March to guarantee that your child will have a yearbook for yearbook signing day. 

      5th grade ads are also on sale. To buy a yearbook ad for your child go to: https://gradytigers.org/fifth-grade-yearbook-ads. Please note that ads can only be purchased for 5th graders. The deadline to purchase ads is January 31, 2018. 

      We are still looking for volunteers to help put the ads together and assist with the yearbook. If you are interested, please contact Norma Maiz at [email protected].

      Grady Chorus - Spring 2018

      December 19, 2017

      The permission slips for the Spring 2018 Grady Tiger Chorus for Grades 3, 4 & 5 were sent home last week. We also attached a copy of the permission slip here

      Please note that all students wishing to participate in the Spring Chorus for grades 3, 4 & 5 need to fill out the permission form and return to Mr. Florio by January 22nd, 2018. 

      Rehearsals will be held every Monday from 1:30-2:30pm, starting on Monday, January 22nd. The Spring concert will be held on Wednesday, April 25, 2018. 

      Please contact Mr. Florio with any questions. 

      Dear Tiger Families,

      Thank you to Mr. Florio and our students for an amazing Winter Concert last week! They did an incredible job! Also, thanks to our wonderful volunteers who helped set up and clean up after the concert! 

      We have some exciting events coming up!  Please click on the links for additional information.

      ·      12/11 - Our Winter ASE Clubs start today. The club sign up period has closed. If you have any questions, please contact Norma Maiz at [email protected].

       ·     12/15 – Barnes & Noble Family Reading Night and Book Fair from 5:30-8:00pm at Barnes and Noblelocated at 213 N. Dale Mabry for our fun Family Night of Reading. The Family Night of Reading will feature book readings by Principal Dosal, Ms. Sandoval, Mrs. Edwards, Mrs. Lempert, Mrs. M. Dosal, Ms. Trupp and Ms. Harahan.  Mr. Tsourakis will read Elf on the Shelf at 7:00pm.  Our students will enjoy fun crafts, hot cocoa and delicious cookies. There will also be a book fair and Grady will get a portion of any purchases made at Barnes & Noble the entire weekend.  For more information on the event, click here:  Family Night of Reading

      Can't attend our Bookfair in person on Friday? Visit https://www.barnesandnoble.com/h/bookfairs to support us online. Make sure you enter Bookfair ID # 12277448 at checkout. 

      We need volunteers to help run the craft table and replenish supplies during the event. Please register for a 30 minute volunteer shift here: Craft table volunteers. Thank you to everyone who volunteers! Your help makes these events a success. 

      ·         12/25-1/8 – Winter Break – no school

      ·     1/9 – Students return to school

      ·     3/3 – Grady’s adult only Auction Night at Christ the King. Click here to purchase tickets. To donate items for the auction, please contact Julie Alexander at [email protected].

      As you are doing your Holiday shopping, please remember that you can use Amazon Smile and designate Grady to receive a portion of your purchases.  To get started, please click here:  https://smile.amazon.com/ch/23-7102322.  Please share this link with friends and family so that Grady will receive portions of their Amazon purchases too.

      Please join Grady Elementary PTA at the Family Night Of Reading At Barnes & Noble, located at 213 N. Dale Mabry on Friday, December 15, from 5:30 pm until 8:00 pm. 
      Please Join Us For A Night Of Reading, a Bookfair, Crafts & Fun!  Mr. Tsourakis will read Elf On The Shelf at 7:00 pm. Complimentary hot cocoa and cookies will be served at 7:00 pm.
      Additional Guest Readers:
      5:30 K. Dosal                    6:30 Mrs. Sandoval
      5:45 Mrs. Edwards             6:45 Ms. Lempert
      6:00 Mrs. Q-Dosal             7:00 Mr. Tsourakis
      6:15 Ms. Trupp                 7:15 Julie Harahan
      If you purchase anything during The Night Of Reading, please mention Grady Elementary (Bookfair ID # 12277448) at the register so that at least 15% of your purchase will be donated to our school. 
      The Bookfair continues all weekend, so any time from December 15 to December 17, if you mention Grady at the counter, our school will receive a portion of your purchase.  We hope to see you there!

      Can’t attend our bookfair at Barnes & Noble?  Visit https://www.barnesandnoble.com/h/bookfairs to support us online by entering Bookfair ID # 12277448 at checkout. 

      Grady Winter Concert

      December 5, 2017

      AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM MUSIC TEACHER STEVEN FLORIO ABOUT THE WINTER CONCERT

      This coming Thursday, December 7th, will be our Winter Concert at Grady.

      This note contains some reminders for you and your child.

      All students in Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grade have been working on songs for this concert and are invited to join us to sing in the concert. All of our 3-5th Grade Chorus Students are working very hard on their songs and are excited to share them with you!

      Students in grades 1-5 will be in school uniform: Plain Navy tops and Khaki bottoms. 

      • Long sleeve shirts under a navy t-shirt, pants and leggings/tights under girl’s dresses are recommended for cooler weather.
      • Please watch the weather forecast, and plan accordingly. We are expecting much cooler temperatures starting on Thursday.

      The Students in Grades 1-5 will meet in Mr. Florio's Class, Room 26, starting at 5:15 p.m., but no later than 5:45 p.m. on December 7.

      Students in Kindergarten will be dressed in Holiday attire, red and green.

      • Please watch the weather forecast, and plan accordingly. We are expecting much cooler temperatures starting on Thursday.

      The Students in Kindergarten will meet in Mrs. Dosal's Class, Room 4, starting at 5:15 p.m., but no later than 5:45p.m. on December 7.

      Also starting at 5 p.m., there will be a viewing on Mrs. Grigsby's Art Show in the Cafeteria.

      Starting at 5:30 p.m., there will be a quick PTA meeting in the pavilion. 

      The concert will start promptly at 6 p.m. in the pavilion.

      Thank you,

      Steven Florio, Music Specialist   

      We have a very exciting week at Grady! 

      Our Winter Concert is this Thursday, December 7th in the Pavilion at 6pm. There are multiple events taking place for the winter concert: 

      • 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm - Family Dinner Night at PDQ
      • From 5:00 pm to 5:45 pm, the Science Fair projects and Art Exhibit will be on display in the cafeteria.
      • At 5:00 pm, the donation only bake sale begins.  Please stop by for delicious treats.  All proceeds benefit the fifth grade.
      • At 5:30 pm, there will be a general meeting of the PTA under the Pavilion.
      • At 6:00 pm, the Winter Concert begins!

      For details and dress code, please click here for an important message from Mr. Florio about the Winter Concert. Volunteers are still needed to set up art work and help put away chairs at the end of the performance. Please click here to sign up. 

      The last day of ASE club signup for the Winter session is tomorrow, Wednesday December 6th. Please click here to view the list of clubs and sign up online. Clubs begin next Monday, December 11th. 

      Finally, thank you to everyone who participated and donated to Tiger Trek! We raised over $10,000, which will directly benefit the free tutoring program, art program, Spring Musical and many other enriching events at Grady. 

      Congratulations to Mrs. Trupp's class, our top class overall! The class will celebrate with a Yogurtology party today. Our top classes per grade that have earned a popsicle party are:

      • Pre-K - Brinson
      • Kindergarten - Hero
      • 1st - Del Castillo
      • 2nd - Price
      • 3rd - Scofield
      • 4th - Lanier/Ritter

      Congrats to our top 4 students who did an amazing job raising money for Grady!

      1. Drew Bresnahan
      2. Michael Neward
      3. Matthew Durham
      4. Jacob Taylor

      We expect to distribute the prizes to all of our students this week. Please note that due to the overwhelming participation and response, we had a few instances where we had to do prize substitutions. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. 

       

      Tiger Trek Prize List

      November 17, 2017

      Tiger Trek

      Thanks to our generous local business sponsors, we have lots of PRIZES to win! We hope your family has fun while raising funds to improve our childrens' education. 

      Tiger Talk Update 11.8.17

      November 8, 2017

      We have some exciting events coming up!  Please click on the links for additional information.

       

      • 11/10 – Non-student day (Veteran’s Day Observance)

       

      • 11/14 – Thanksgiving Luncheon at Grady

       

      • 11/16 – Great American Teach-in

       

      • 11/17 – Tiger Trek Walk-a-thon This PTA fundraiser was moved to replace the traditional fall fundraiser –100% of the proceeds will go directly to Grady to benefit your children and our school.  It's a great way for your child to have fun while they exercise! We are in need of volunteers during the event. Please click on the links to see the full schedulevolunteer or donate on behalf of a student. Thanks to our wonderful sponsors, we have amazing prizes for all of our donors, as well as the top 4 students and top classes.

       

      • 11/20-24 – Thanksgiving Break – No school

       

        

      • 3/3 – Grady’s adult only Auction Night at Christ the King. Click here to purchase tickets. To donate items for the auction, please contact Julie Alexander at [email protected].

       

      Thank you to all of the parents who joined us for our volunteer meeting yesterday! It was great seeing how many parents are willing to sign up to help our upcoming events and insure that they are a success! If you were unable to attend, but would like more information on volunteering, please contact Norma Maiz at [email protected].

       

      We still need volunteers for the following events: Thanksgiving Luncheon on Nov 14thTiger Trek on Nov 16th (sorting t-shirts) and Nov 17th (distributing bracelets and waters and cheering on our students); Winter Concert on Dec 7th (chair setup/breakdown); and Barnes & Noble Book Fair on Dec 15th(run the craft table for 30 minute shifts). Please click on the links above to sign up or contact Norma.

       

      The Grady Chorus, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade, will continue rehearsals after Thanksgiving Break. As we return to "Early Release Mondays," on November 27th, our chorus time will return back to 1:30-2:30 in the afternoon, with pick up at 2:30 in the front of the school. We will have rehearsals on November 27th and December 4th, in preparation for the Winter Concert on December 7th.  

      The Reflections Art Contest winners are being announced today, November 8th. We will post a list of the winners and the art submitted next week. Thanks to all of our students that participated!

       

      Parents, if you chaperone a field trip or participate in a classroom or grade level event, please send pictures to our Yearbook Coordinator, Norma Maiz at [email protected], so that they can be included in our Grady Yearbook. You can also send photos from outside events that feature teachers and students.  

      Thanks to all of the families that submitted Box Tops. We raised approximately $600!!

       

      In October, the PTA approved $1,018.34 in teacher mini grants including privacy partitions, math journals and kits, reading journals, 6 student stools and the 4th grade classroom library grant to create a library of low, mid and high level books for 90 students. So far this year, over $5,000.00 in teacher mini grants have been approved this school year.

      Guidance Counselor, Ms. Nancy Barra, asks us to read the November Home & School Connection.

      It is time to get involved! Grady is having a Volunteer Meeting on Tuesday, November 7, at 8 AM in the Teachers’ Lounge for parents and grandparents who would like to be more involved with our school. Please click Read More for additional information.

      Tiger Talk Update 10.24.17

      October 24, 2017

      We have some exciting events coming up!  Please click on the links for additional information.

       

      • 10/23-10/28 – Red Ribbon week at Grady. Click Red Ribbon for the full list of Red Ribbon Week Activities. As a reminder, Wednesday is “Turn your back on drugs” – wear your clothes backwards and Thursday is our Red Ribbon Poster Contest.
      • 10/31 - Storybook Parade at Grady at 8:30am. The PTA will provide a free cup of coffee for parents while we wait for the parade to start. There will also be a donation-only donut sale, which benefits the fifth grade end of year activities. Please click on the link for more information. We will have a PTA membership table set up at the Storybook Parade to help us reach our goal of 100% membership.
      • 11/5 – Tampa Bay Food Truck Rally and Silent Auction in support of End 68 Hours of Hunger. Click End 68 Hours of Hunger for more information.
      • 11/14 – Thanksgiving Luncheon at Grady
      • 11/16 – Great American Teach-in
      • 11/17 – Tiger Trek Walk-a-thon This PTA fundraiser was moved to replace the traditional fall fundraiser – there is no food to buy, magazines to order or catalogs to look through. 100% of the proceeds will go directly to Grady to benefit your children and our school.  It's a great way for your child to have fun while they exercise!

      Packages are being sent home today, October 24th with all of the details. Students can ask family members, friends and neighbors to support Grady by pledging money towards their participation.

      For your convenience, per-lap pledges have been replaced by flat donations.  However, your walker will still enjoy competing for prizes on the number of laps completed.

      October 30th is the last day to turn in money to guarantee a Tiger Trek t-shirt, which can be worn as a spirit shirt during the week. You can turn in money collected through the envelope provided or online donations are accepted here.

       

      • 3/3 – Grady’s adult only Auction Night at Christ the King. Click here to purchase tickets. To donate items for the auction, please contact Julie Alexander at [email protected].

       

      Parents, if you chaperone a field trip or participate in a classroom or grade level event, please send pictures to our Yearbook Coordinator, Norma Maiz at [email protected], so that they can be included in our Grady Yearbook.

      Thank you again to everyone who volunteered at the Fall Festival. The event was fantastic and we really appreciate the help from our parents and teachers. Also, thank you to all of our families that attended the Fall Festival! To see some pictures of the Fall Festival, please click here. If anyone has a video of Mr. Tsourakis being slimed, please email it to [email protected] so that we can post it on the website. 

      As a reminder, due to Hurricane Irma, the following Mondays are going to be regular school days, not early release days: October 30, November 6 and November 13th. During those dates, school will be released at 2:15pm and clubs and chorus practice will run one hour later. Clubs and Chorus will take place from 2:30-3:30pm, with the exception of the Robotics team, which will dismiss at 4:30pm. 

      Tiger Trek

      October 23, 2017

      Coming soon!  TigerTrek student Walk-a-thon on November 17th

      WHAT: The annual Grady Walkathon will take place on November 17th. Your child will have an opportunity to raise money in a fun way! 

      WHY: This PTA fundraiser will have no food to buy, magazines to order or catalogs to look through. 100% of the proceeds will go directly to Grady to benefit your children and our school.  It's a great way for your child to have fun while they exercise.

      HOW: Students can ask family members, friends and neighbors to support Grady by pledging money towards their participation. Parents may also take this form to work to ask co-workers to support their child at Grady. You can also donate online here: Donate online

      For your convenience, per-lap pledges have been replaced by flat donations.  However, your walker will still enjoy competing for prizes on the number of laps completed.

      GOALS AND INCENTIVES:

      -  We encourage every walker to raise at least $35 in donations.

      -  The PTA has worked hard to win sponsorship from local businesses.  There will be hundreds of prizes from Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Xtreme Juice, Yogurtology, Pinarama Lanes and more! Others have graciously donated money and you’ll see their logos on the event T-shirt.

      -  The event T-shirt will be award to walkers who raise a minimum of $35.  Your child is welcome to wear their Tiger Trek t-shirt on Spirit Day… so expect their excitement. 

      IMPORTANT DATES:

      -  Tuesday, October 24th- Donation Envelope will go home with your child.  The outside of the envelope will be used to record and collect donations. 

      Monday, October 30th- deadline to return the Donation Envelope by to guarantee your child has their t-shirt for the Walk-a-thon.  Envelopes turned in after that, which meet the $35 threshold will still receive the t-shirt, it just may not be in time for Tiger Trek. 

      Friday, November 17th- date of Tiger Trek Walk-a-thon

      Monday - wear red (school will hand out red ribbons)

      Tuesday - crazy socks day

      Wednesday - "turn your back on drugs day" by wearing your clothes backwards

      Thursday - turn in posters for poster contest.  Posters must be 8.5" x 11" and in landscape position.  Posters must relate to the theme "Drug Free Me" and drawn with markers, paints and/or crayons

      Friday - School Spirt Day - wear spirit shirts

      Fall Festival Thank You!

      October 23, 2017

      The Fall Festival was a great time for families to mingle and have fun!  I think it was our biggest year ever and we saw many students who have moved on to middle school return to enjoy the festivities or work some of the stations. 

      We would like to thank all of our parent and teacher volunteers - the Fall Festival would not be possible without your time and dedication.  A special thanks to the dads and Mrs. Doremus for keeping the food tent running so smoothly! Thank you also to Mr. Tsourakis for being such a good sport about being slimed! 

      We hope everyone enjoyed the Fall Festival as much as we did!

      To see some pictures of the Fall Festival, please click here. We are working on getting a video of Mr. Tsourakis being slimed. 

       

      Storybook Parade 10/31/17

      October 23, 2017

      Dear Parents,

      Grady's Annual Storybook Parade will be on Tuesday, October 31st. Teachers, staff and students are invited to dress in a costume  depicting a favorite storybook character. Students are encouraged to carry the book that depicts the character they are wearing.

      The parade will begin at 8:30 a.m. After the parade, school work will resume and teachers have planned literature based activities related to 
      the storybook characters. If your child's costume would be uncomfortable to wear all day, he or she may change back into a school uniform.

      If your child needs help planning something to wear, just send a note to his/her homeroom teacher and assistance will be given. In planning your child's outfit, remember that according to school board policy, toy guns, toy swords or weapons of any kind cannot be brought to school. Also, please be aware that very scary costumes are not permitted.

      Parents are invited to view the parade in the front of the school and may walk through the office after the morning parade. Paparazzi are welcomed.

      Boo to you!

      Kristine Dosal 
      Principal

      Tiger Talk Update 10.17.17

      October 17, 2017

      We have some exciting events coming up!  Please click on the links for additional information.

      ·         10/13-20 - Grady "Wild West Book Fair" in the Kathryn Hance Media Center. Please click on Volunteer at the Book Fair to see the volunteer schedule and sign up. The Book Fair is also online from October 8-21.  Click on this link to see learn more:  Online Book Fair. If we reach the Book Fair sales goal of $11,000, Media Specialist Nick Tsourakis will be SLIMED during the Fall Festival! 

      ·         10/20 – Grady Fall Festival from 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm at Grady It’s a very fun family night with lots of games, two inflatable play areas and plenty of food. Please click on Fall Festival for more information and click on the Order Form to order your wristbands – they are $20 for 1st Wristband and $15 for each additional Wristband. Today is the final day to pre-order Wristbands. 

      To make the fall festival successful, we depend on parent volunteers to help run the games and booths. To volunteer for a PTA booth, please sign-up on our volunteer form, or contact the homeroom parent for your child's classroom, or your child’s teacher. Thank you to all of the parents that have already signed up to volunteer.

      ·         10/31 - Storybook Parade at Grady 

      ·         11/5 – Tampa Bay Food Truck Rally and Silent Auction in support of End 68 Hours of Hunger. Click End 68 Hours of Hunger for more information.

      ·         11/17 – Tiger Trek Walk-a-thon

      ·         3/3 – Grady’s adult only Auction Night at Christ the King. Click here to purchase tickets. To donate items for the auction, please contact Julie Alexander at [email protected].

       

      Please keep collecting Box Tops for Grady and turn them in to your teachers by October 23rd. If you have any questions regarding Box Tops, please contact Kat Cowley at [email protected].

       

      Yearbooks are on sale! To buy a yearbook for your child go to http://www.strawbridge.net/order-online/ and use online code: 112045.  You can also purchase yearbook ads for 5th graders only. To purchase an ad for your 5th grader, go to https://gradytigers.org/fifth-grade-yearbook-ads. Contact Norma Maiz with any questions about yearbooks at [email protected].

      Pasta for Pennies benefiting The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society  (LLS) is beginning on Thursday, October 19 and running through November 3.  Pasta for Pennies is the student series fundraising program that helps local cancer patients by raising funds needed to support blood cancer research.  Students will receive a flyer and a small box to collect their change (as well as any bills or checks) on Thursday.  The classroom with the highest amount collected will receive a pasta lunch from Olive Garden.

      To see pictures of Art & Family Night, please click here:  Art & Family Night at Chick-fil-A.

      Congratulations to Melinda Dickens, Debonique Grigsby and Kim Young, who are being awarded for their commitment to excellence in education!

      Melinda Dickens, fourth grade teacher, has been named Grady Teacher of the Year.  Debonique Grigsby, Art Specialist, has been named Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year.   And, Kim Young has been named Instructional Support Person of the Year.  Each winner has brought their best efforts and utilized their talents to serve the students at Grady. 

      Guidance Counselor, Ms. Nancy Barra, asks us to read the October Home & School Connection

       

      Grady Fall Festival wristbands are due by Tuesday, October 17th. Send in your forms or click on read more for the link to purchase online. We still need volunteers!
      PTA Reflections "Within Reach" contest is due by to Mrs. Grigsby by Tuesday, October 17th. Click read more for details.

      The Fall Festival is coming up on Friday, October 20th from 5 pm until 7:30 pm at Grady.  Please join us for an amazing event!  We will have a variety of carnival games with prizes; a giant inflatable obstacle course, as well as a regular bounce house; a photo booth; temporary tattoos and hair, nail and face painting at the “Bootique;” and more.  This event provides hours of fun, food and family time.

      In addition, if we reach the Book Fair sales goal of $11,000, Media Specialist Nick Tsourakis will be SLIMED during the Festival! 

      To make the fall festival successful, we depend on parent volunteers to help run the games and booths – please consider taking a shift at your child’s classroom booth or a PTA booth to help our kids enjoy a successful event. To volunteer for a PTA booth, please sign-up on our volunteer form, or contact the homeroom parent for your child's classroom, or your child’s teacher.  Special note – we need some Dads to grill some hot dogs!

      Admission to the festival itself is free for children and adults, but the games, bounce houses, "Bootique" and food cost money.  Without a wristband, game tickets are $1 each. You can purchase a wristband for your child that entitles each child to unlimited games, bouncing, "Bootique" visits and popcorn. Wristbands are just $20 for the first child and $15 for each additional wristband if you purchase before October 17th.  This is a substantial discount from the day-of-event wristband price of $25.  To purchase a wristband using our Cisco-certified secure online registration and payment system (all credit cards accepted), please click here: Wristband Order Form. If you wish to pay by cash or check, please complete the Wristband Order Form that was sent home and submit to your teacher with the cash or check.

      Wristband pick up is will-call style at the event.  All wristbands will be available for pick up on the night of the Fall Festival at the PTA table.  You’ll be asked for the name and teacher of the student under whose name you made the wristband reservation.

      Hot dogs, chips and drinks will be available for purchase with $1 tickets. There will also be a donation-only bake sale, which benefits the fifth grade end of year activities. If you would like to donate baked goods for the fifth grade bake sale, please drop them off to Jaime Patterson on Thursday or Friday morning; or during festival set-up. Ideally they are individually wrapped for easy sale.

      To see photos of last year’s Fall Festival, click here: 2016 Fall Festival and to see photos from 2015, click here: 2015 Fall Festival Photos.  To see a video of Mr. Tsourakis being slimed at the 2016 Fall Festival, please click here: 2016 Sliming.

      Tiger Talk Update 10.5.17

      October 5, 2017

      We have some exciting events coming up! Please click on the links for additional information.

      • 10/5 - 2nd Grade Brownies are meeting tonight at 6pm in the Grady Cafeteria.
      • 10/13-20 - Grady "Wild West Book Fair" in the Kathryn Hance Media Center. Preview day is October 13th from 8:40 am - 2:00 pm. The Book Fair starts Tuesday, October 17, and runs through Friday, October 20, from 7:45 am until 2:15 pm, each day.  Please click on Volunteer at the Book Fair to see the volunteer schedule and sign up.
      • 10/16 - Non-student day
      • 10/20 – Grady Fall Festival from 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm at Grady. It’s a very fun family night with lots of games, two inflatable play areas and plenty of food. Please click on Fall Festival for more information and click on the Order Form to order your wristbands.  Wristbands are $20 for 1st Wristband and $15 for each additional Wristband. They include unlimited inflatable play, games, snow cones, and popcorn. To volunteer at the Fall Festival, please sign-up for a booth on our volunteer form, or contact the homeroom parent for your child's classroom, or your child’s teacher.  
      • 10/31 - Storybook Parade at Grady

      Please keep collecting Box Tops for Grady and turn them in to your teachers. 

      Thank you to our new Tiger partners! We very much appreciate your generosity.  The Tiger partnerships help make a difference in our Grady classrooms by funding programs (including the after school tutoring program, teacher mini grants, student programs, music and art programs and much more), delivering PTA events to our students, teachers and families (including the winter concert, Tiger Tears Breakfast, Storybook Parade and much more), and enhancing our Grady campus through grounds improvement projects. Become a Tiger Partner today! To learn more about Tiger Family and Business Partnerships, please click here: Tiger Partnership Program.

      Our newest Tiger Business Partner is: Siberian Level Partner, State Farm Agent Jim Cornwell.  

      Our newest Tiger Family Partners are:  Leader of the Pack-level partners, The Dan and Jessica Schentrup Family and The Zysk Family; Bengal-level partners, The Griffin Family; Cougar-level partners, the Ledford Family and the Lopez Family; and Cub-level partners, Khoa Nguyen Family and Rafael Ortiz & Family. 

      2017-2018 Grady Yearbooks

      5th grade ads are now on sale. To buy a yearbook ad for your child go to: https://gradytigers.org/fifth-grade-yearbook-ads. Please note that ads can only be purchased for 5th graders. The deadline to purchase ads is January 31, 2018. 

      Yearbooks are also for sale! To buy a yearbook for your child, go to http://www.strawbridge.net/order-online/ and use online code: 112045. Buy it before March to guarantee that your child will have a yearbook for yearbook signing day. 

      Questions about yearbooks? Contact Norma Maiz at [email protected]

      Grady PTA thanks Abdoney Orthodontics for being a Leader of the Pack Tiger Partner!

      Please check out their website at https://abdoneyortho.com/.  

      Abdoney Orthodontics is located at 3516 W Bay to Bay Blvd, Tampa, FL 33629.  Their telephone number is (813) 250-0313.  If you decide to contact this sponsor, please let them know how much you appreciate them sponsoring our school.

      Tonight HCSO Deputy Charity Arthur will speak to Grady parents about  “What Every Parent Should Know About Internet Safety” at 6pm in the Media Center. Grady staff will provide free childcare for kids aged 3-12. Free Pizza and drinks will be provided for parents and children. For more information, please click here: Program on Internet Safety.
       
      Become a Tiger Family Partner today! Please sign up for Tiger Partner Family Sponsorship by Monday, October 2nd so that your name could be included on the Tiger Trek event shirt. Families are more than welcome to become Tiger Partners any time throughout the year, but due to printing deadlines, any families that join after October 2nd will not be named on the Tiger Trek shirt. 
       
      The Tiger Family partnerships help make a difference in our Grady classrooms by funding programs (including the after school tutoring program, teacher mini grants, student programs, music and art programs and much more), delivering PTA events to our students, teachers and families (including the winter concert, Tiger Tears Breakfast, Storybook Parade and much more), and enhancing our Grady campus through grounds improvement projects. To learn more about Tiger Family Partnerships, please click hereTiger Family Partners. To pay online by credit card for a Family Tiger Partnership, please click here: Become A Tiger Partner Today, select the sponsorship level and fill in your credit card information.

      Thank you to our Tiger partners! We very much appreciate your generosity. Our 2017-18 Tiger Family Partners are:  Leader of the Pack-level partners, the Gibbs Family, the Lyons Family, Drs. Siviero and Heather Agazzi, and the Zysk Family; Bengal-level partners, the Enriquez Family, the Koshy Family, the Maheshwari Family, and the Roush Family; Cougar-level partners, the de la Garza Family, the Harrop Family, the Kendall Family, and the Lorenz Family; and Cub-level partners, Luke & Ryan Christopher, Fancy Nails, the Liu Family, the Ruiz Family and Drs. S. Sahoo and C. Gupta. Because of their gifts, we will all enjoy more free tutoring, arts programs and teacher grants.

      Tiger Talk Update 9.22.17

      September 22, 2017

      Thank you to all the moms who joined us at our Moms’ Night at Kona Grill on Tuesday! Also, thank you to everyone who helped watch the kids so our Grady moms could enjoy a fun night!

      We have some exciting events coming up! Please click on the links for additional information.

      • 9/26 – Chick-fil-A art night from 3-8pm. We are urgently in need of volunteers to help with the setup from 2-3pm & breakdown from 8-8:45pm. Please click here to sign up.

      • 9/28 - HCSO Deputy Charity Arthur speaks to Grady parents about internet safety from 6-7:30pm at the Media Center. Grady staff will provide free childcare for kids aged 3-12. Free Pizza and drinks will be provided for parents and children. For more information, please click here: Program on Internet Safety.

      • 9/28 – Grady’s Kindergarten Daisy Troop & 3rd grade Brownie Troop meetings in room 22. Click here for additional information. New members are welcome to attend!

      • 10/20 – Grady Fall Festival from 5-7:30pm at Grady. It’s a very fun family night with lots of games, two inflatable play areas and plenty of food. Please click on Fall Festival for more information and click on the Order Formto order your wristbands. Wristbands are $20 for 1st Wristband and $15 for each additional Wristband. They include unlimited inflatable play, games, snow cones, and popcorn.

      Grandparents’ Breakfast was cancelled as a result of Hurricane Irma and will not be rescheduled at this time.

      The 2017 Reflections Art Program is now underway and will be overseen by Grady Art Teacher, Ms. Debonique Grigsby. Students will create art work based on the theme “Within Reach” that expresses a narrative about a topic that is within reach of the artist. The artwork will be completed at home by students and submitted in art class by October 17, 2017. There will be a professionally-judged art contest at the end of the program, complete with ribbons for the top three art pieces in each grade and an awards party that will double as an ice-cream social.  For more information and detailed rules, please click Reflections Art.

      Please keep collecting Box Tops for Grady! We will provide more information on how to turn them in shortly.

      Thank you to our new Tiger partners! We very much appreciate your generosity.  Because of their gifts, we will all enjoy more free tutoring, arts programs and teacher grants. Become a Tiger Partner today! To learn more about Tiger Family and Business Partnerships, please click here: Tiger Partnership Program.

      Our newest Tiger Family Partners are:  Leader of the Pack-level partners, the Lyons Family; Bengal-level partners, the Enriquez Family and the Koshy Family; Cougar-level partners, the Kendall Family; and Cub-level partners, Fancy Nails and The Ruiz Family. 

      Our newest Tiger Business Partners are: Leader of the Pack-level partners, Abdoney Orthodontics; Bengal-level partners, After Hours Pediatrics and Perez Orthodontics; and Cougar-level partners, Tampa Music School and Pediatric Dentistry by Dr. Jerry Copeland.  

      The Grady PTA Board had their first meeting this past week and approved 17 mini grants submitted by teachers.  The mini grants approved totaled $4,028.24.

       

      Grady's Kindergarten Daisy troop will have its first meeting on Thursday, September 28th from 5:00-6:00pm in Grady Classroom 22.  New members are welcome to attend!

      Grady's 3rd grade Brownie troop will have it's first meeting on Thursday, September 28th from 6:00-7:00pm in Grady Classroom 22.  New members are welcome to attend!  

      Please contact Jessica Sandoval at [email protected] for additional sign-up information. Thank you!

       

      Tiger Talk Update 9.18.17

      September 18, 2017

      Welcome back to school! We hope everyone made it through Irma safely.

      Please grab a friend and join us at Kona Grill for Moms' Night Out tomorrow, September 19th from 5:30-8:30pm. Please click here for additional information. Contact Krista Harvie to RSVP or with any questions at [email protected]. Reservations are not required, but are appreciated.  

      Today is our first day of ASE clubs! Teachers have already been given a list of the students participating in clubs so students will be sent to their assigned club during dismissal. Students will have 15 minutes of snack time while waiting for all students and vendors to arrive. Monday dismissal for students enrolled on a Monday club is 2:30pm. Tuesdays - Thursday dismissal for students enrolled in these clubs is 3:30pm. We do not have park and walk dismissal at the gate for clubs, all clubs dismissals are at the front of the school. PTA Club Coordinator, Norma Maiz ([email protected]) will be at school during club dismissal if anyone still has questions regarding clubs.

      Chorus rehearsals started today for 3rd, 4th and 5th graders who signed up. For more information on chorus rehearsals, please contact Mr. Florio, our Music Specialist at [email protected]


      Please join us on September 28th from 6-7pm at the Kathryn Hance Media Center as Deputy Charity Arthur, Hillsborough County Sheriff's Deputy and School Resource Officer, speaks with us about internet safety. Deputy Arthur will talk about different types of internet dangers and will provide helpful solutions and practices that parents can implement to help their children stay safe online. For more information, please click here: Program on Internet Safety.

      According to the National Crime Prevention Council, 74% of 8 to 18 year olds have access to the internet at home.  Not only do more children have access to the Internet than ever before, but they are using it more, too. Many schools incorporate the Internet into their curricula and encourage online research for projects. But that’s not all kids are doing online. They also email, chat with friends through instant messenger and in chat rooms, play games, create websites and web blogs, and just surf the ‘net.

      Even as kids grow savvier in their use of the Internet, it can still be a dangerous place. The good news is that most dangers can be avoided if children and their parents learn about smart Internet use.

      Please join Grady Elementary PTA as we welcome Hillsborough County Sheriff's Deputy and School Resource Officer, Charity Arthur, to speak with us about internet safety.  Deputy Arthur will talk about different types of internet dangers and will provide helpful solutions and practices that parents can implement to help their children stay safe online.  The program will last about one hour and then there will be time for questions afterward.

      Event:  Deputy Charity Arthur Speaks on Internet Safety

      Date & Time:  Thursday, September 28, 2017, from 6 pm to 7:30 pm

      Place:  Kathryn Hance Media Center on campus at Grady

      Questions:  Please contact VP of Special Projects, Ellen Lyons, at [email protected]

      School Closed for Hurricane Irma on 9/7-9/15

      September 7, 2017 - September 12, 2017

      School is closed on Thursday, Sept 7 and Friday, Sept 15th due to Hurricane Irma. Grandparents' Breakfast will be rescheduled. We will provide details as soon as they are available. Stay safe!

      Grandparents' Breakfast on September 7 (A-M) & Sept 8 (N-Z)

      September 7, 2017 - September 8, 2017

      Grandparents are invited to Grady Elementary for Grandparents' Breakfast. Two breakfasts will be held:
      Thursday, September 7th, for grandparents visiting students whose last names begin with the letters A through M - and-
      Friday, September 8th, for grandparents visiting students whose last names begin with the letters N through Z.
      Breakfast begins at 7:15 am and ends at 8:00 am. The Grandparents' Breakfast will be held in the cafeteria and will feature complimentary pastry, muffins, coffee, and orange juice for grandparents/parents and school breakfast for students.
      Volunteers are needed. Please sign up at http://gradytigers.org/grandparents-breakfast-volunteers.

      Grady Chorus

      September 4, 2017

      We are trying a new routine with our Grady Chorus this year. Rehearsals for Intermediate (3rd, 4th and 5th grade) Chorus will take place on Mondays from 1:15-2:00pm starting on September 11th. Primary Chorus (1st and 2nd grade) will use songs within their music curriculum and will not need to have an after school rehearsal. Please turn in permission forms by September 11th.
      Click Read More for additional details and to access the permission slip.

      Tiger Talk Update 8.31.17

      August 31, 2017

      Grandparents’ Breakfast is coming up on September 7/8th. Two breakfasts will be held:
      Thursday, September 7th for grandparents visiting students whose last names begin with the letters A-M
      Friday, September 8th for grandparents visiting students whose last names begin with the letters N-Z
      Please note that the last names were incorrectly listed in our previous Tiger Talk email.
      We still need volunteers. Please click here to sign up.

      ASE Club registration is now open for fall clubs. Please click here for additional details. 

      Online orders for yearbooks are now available. You can order your yearbook online by going to www.strawbridge.net and using the online code: 112045. 2017 - 2018 yearbooks are $20 for soft cover and $25 for hard cover. Cash orders will only be received in the months of January and February 2018. The deadline to order yearbooks in time for yearbook signing is March 9, 2018.

      We are still looking for volunteers to help with the following:

      • Grandparents Breakfast on September 7/8th - Please click here to sign up.
      • Chick-fil-A art night on September 26th – We are in need of volunteers to help with the setup/breakdown. Please click here to sign up. 
      • After School Club Dismissal - We are looking for volunteers to help with clubs after school dismissal on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3:20 to 3:50, volunteers may receive a discount for clubs. Please contact Norma Maiz at [email protected] with any questions.  
      • Yearbook - We need a Yearbook Coordinator, as well as people to take pictures at events and prepare the 5th grade dedication ads. Please contact Norma Maiz with any questions at [email protected].
      • Fall Festival or Tiger Trek Committee - please contact PTA President Debbie Bresnahan at [email protected]

      Upcoming events are listed below. Please click on the links for additional information. 

      • September 4th - Labor Day - Non-student day
      • September 5th - Tiger Trot begins
      • September 19th – Moms’ night at Kona Grill from 5:30-8:30pm 
      • September 26th – Chick-fil-A art night 
      • September 28th - HCSO Deputy Charity Arthur speaks to Grady parents about internet safety at 6pm in the media center

      Thank you to our new Tiger family partners, Leader of the Pack-level partners, the Gibbs Family and Drs. Siviero and Heather Agazzi; Bengal-level partners, the Maheshwari Family and the Roush Family; Cougar-level partners, the Lorenz Family, the de la Garza Family and the Harrop family; and Cub-level partners, Luke & Ryan Christopher, The Liu Family and Drs. S. Sahoo and C. Gupta.  We very much appreciate your generosity.  Because of their gifts, we will all enjoy more free tutoring, arts programs and teacher grants. Make your family a Tiger Partner today! To learn more about Tiger Family Partnership, please click here: Tiger Family Partners.  To learn more about your business being a Tiger Business Partner, please click here:  Tiger Business Partners.  To pay online by credit card for a Family Tiger Partnership, please click here: Become A Tiger Partner Today, select the sponsorship level and fill in your credit card information. 

      Guidance Counselor, Nancy Barra ([email protected].fl.us), encourages parents to read the September edition of Home & School Connections, which has helpful tips for relating to your child and helping your child get the most out of school. Click here to read it in English, or here to read it in Spanish.

      Grady PTA supports End 68 Hours of Hunger’s upcoming Tampa Bay Food Truck Rally and Silent Auction.  68 Hours of Hunger provides weekend meals to food insecure children. Right now, they are feeding more than 140 children a week.  Let’s support their good works and enjoy some tasty treats, too!  Thank you for supporting Grady PTA’s friends.

      Please join us at the Tampa Bay Food Truck Rally,  Sunday, November 5, from 11 am to 2 pm at Hyde Park Presbyterian Church, 1309 W. Swann Ave., Tampa, FL 33606.  There will be food trucks for all tastes and lots of family fun.  There is no charge to attend, but food donations of the kind listed below are greatly appreciated. 

      Food Items to Donate:  Please be sure the food has not expired. No glass please. Please remember that many of the children carry their own food home and bigger is not better!  Thank you!!

      Canned chicken or tuna
      Canned chili or soups
      Canned pasta
      Protein Bars
      Cereal or low sugar instant oatmeal
      Crackers
      Squeezeable Jelly
      Peanut butter or other “butters”
      Canned fruit or veggies
      Fruit “cups”
      Pasta or rice (no larger than 1 lb.)
      Canned spaghetti sauce—no glass
      Canned black beans
      Macaroni and cheese

      For more information, please click here:  68 Hours of Hunger

      Please join Grady PTA for a fun-filled Moms' Night Out at Kona Grill -- a prior Tiger Talk message about this mentioned a different place, but the event is at Kona Grill.  This is a great chance to get to know other Grady moms.  Reservations are not necessary, but are appreciated.  Please contact VP of Membership Krista Harvie at [email protected] with questions or to RSVP.  We hope to see you at this great event. 

      Details:

      Date: Tuesday, September 19, 2017

      Time: 5:30 pm until 8:30 pm 

      Place:  Kona Grill, 4134 W Boy Scout Blvd, Tampa, FL 33607 (we have the back half of the restaurant reserved)

      Restaurant website and telephone number:  http://www.konagrill.com/menu; (813) 877-5938

      Tiger Talk Update

      August 18, 2017

      Hello and welcome back to school! We are looking forward to another incredible year at Grady Elementary!


      We want to thank everyone who has already joined the PTA – we really appreciate it! If you haven’t joined, please fill out the form at https://gradytigers.org/membership-form or download the printable form and turn in with payment to your child’s teacher. The PTA is lobbying on behalf of our children and there is strength in numbers.


      Our complete calendar of school and PTA events are posted on the website here. You can also download the dates with iCalendar. We will provide more information as we get closer to each event.


      Some exciting upcoming events are listed below. Please click on the links for additional information.
      • August 31st - Girl Scouts Meeting at 6 pm
      • September 7/8th - Grandparents breakfast
      • September 19th – Moms’ night at Kona Grill from 5:30-8:30pm - PLEASE NOTE LOCATION WAS CHANGED TO KONA GRILL
      • September 26th – Chick-fil-A art night – We are in need of volunteers to help with the setup/breakdown. Please sign up here.
      • September 28th - HCSO Deputy Charity Arthur speaks to Grady parents about internet safety at 6 pm in the media center

      We are looking for volunteers to participate on the following committees:
      • Fall Festival
      • Tiger Trek
      • Yearbook
      • We also need people to assist with after school clubs dismissal. There are benefits associated with this position. Please contact ASE Club Cooordinator Norma Maiz at [email protected] and Moni Sears at [email protected] for more information.
      Please contact PTA President Debbie Bresnahan at: [email protected] if you would like to join any of the committees.


      To volunteer at school, you must complete the background check first: Background Check Application for Volunteers. Click on the word “Apply” on the left side of the page and fill out the forms (you will need your driver's license number). This background check application is separate from any application to volunteer at Grady. When you do volunteer at Grady, make sure you bring your driver’s license and sign into the school’s computer and log your hours. This is for security and it helps our school because Grady can win awards in connection with the number of volunteers and volunteer hours logged by the school.


      The family sponsorship packets are being sent home this week. To learn more about Tiger Family Partnership, please click here: Tiger Family Partners. To learn more about your business being a Tiger Business Partner, please click here: Tiger Business Partners. To pay online by credit card for a Family Tiger Partnership, please click here: Become A Tiger Partner Today, select the sponsorship level and fill in your credit card information. Thank you to our new family partners, the Maheshwari Family, a Bengal-level partner, the Lorenz Family, a Cougar-level partner, and Luke & Ryan Christopher, a Cub-level partner. We very much appreciate your generosity. Because of their gifts, we will all enjoy more free tutoring, arts programs and teacher grants.


      If you have any questions about Tiger Talk or any other PTA matters, feel free to contact me, Jannine Neward, VP of Communications at [email protected].

      Tomorrow is the last day of school.  School ends early, at 11:45 am.  This year, Grady students and faculty enjoyed many accomplishments, which have come into clear focus during the last several days of awards ceremonies at the school.  Congratulations and praise to the Grady students who excelled this year and to the faculty who helped them achieve so much. 

      We hope that you have a safe, happy summer.  If you are moving on from Grady, best wishes and much happiness at your new school.  If you are returning, then we hope you return recharged and ready for another fun year.  If you are inclined to start shopping for school supplies over the summer, the school supply list for next year is available here:  School Supply List.  Next year’s ASD program school supply list is available here:  ASD School Supply List.   

      Grady’s teachers have written thank you cards to all of the members of the PTA in response to the wonderful Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week.  To read these thank you notes and see some additional photos, please click here:  T&SAW Photo Gallery

      It’s not too late to buy a fence panel and have your family’s name proudly displayed on our new fence!   Click here to find out more:  Fence Panel Plaques.  

      Thank you to Grady’s Business and Family Tiger Partners.  These businesses and families donated a combined $20,000.00 to Grady PTA this year.  These donations paid for books, supplies, tutoring, and for a very large section of the new perimeter fence that will be constructed over the summer.  Grady PTA recognizes and gratefully appreciates each of the following Family and Business Tiger Partners:

      Grady Tiger Business Partners:  State Farm Agent Jim Cornwell; Abdoney Orthodontics; Perez Orthodontics; South Tampa Pediatric Dentistry; After Hours Pediatrics; and Fancy Nails.

      Grady Tiger Family Partners:  Drs. Siviero & Heather Agazzi; Drs. Johnny & Julie Gibbs and Aiden Gibbs; HOUSE OF HUCKLEBERRY; The Lyons Family - Mike, Ellen, Frank & Nick; The Ruiz Family; The Roush Family; The Zysk Family; The Griffin Family - Drew, Jennifer, Roman & Cort; The de la Garza Family; The Kendell Family; Sanjiv Sahoo & Chhavi Gupta; The Angel Ortiz Family; The Hasnovi Family; and The Ledford Family. 

      Have a safe and happy summer.  We will be preparing over the summer to bring you a great PTA experience in the fall.

      Tomorrow, May 19, there is one final fifth grade Krispy Kreme doughnut sale from 7:30 am to 8:00 am, in front of the school.  Doughnuts are $7 per dozen or $1 each.  The fifth grade thanks you for your doughnut purchases over the year. 

      This summer, the perimeter fence along the south side of the school will be replaced with a black aluminum fence.  This investment, which will cost just under $50,000.00, will complete the replacement of Grady’s perimeter fence.  We are not replacing the west side fence that faces the ball park as that was never part of the plan.  The new fence will further beautify the school (and is harder to climb too) and we hope that when you return in August, you will be able to enjoy and appreciate the new fence, which is the result of years of fundraising.   

      You may have seen the commemorative fence panel plaques along the fence.   If you would like to purchase your own fence panel plaque to commemorate your student or family’s time at Grady, please click here:  Purchase a Panel.   To see pictures of other fence panel plaques, click here:   Fence Panel Plaques.   

      After School Clubs have now concluded for the year.  

      We are still in need of help with after school club dismissal next year, in need of help with the yearbook, and in need of a VP of Sponsorship and a VP of Fundraising.  Please click here for more details:  Volunteers Needed.  For more information, please email next year’s PTA President, Debbie Bresnahan at [email protected].

      Next week there are a number of activities.  Check her for details:   End of Year Events.

      We need volunteers to help set up chairs under the Pavilion for the K-4 Awards Ceremony on May 24. If you could please spare a few minutes after drop-off to help set up chairs, please click here:  Chair Set Up Volunteers.  Thank you very much to all of you who help us set up for school events.

      PTA Volunteers Needed

      May 18, 2017

      Before we conclude the year, the PTA is in need of the following volunteers for the 2017-18 school year:

      (1)    For after school clubs next year, we need a volunteer to help us cover club dismissal only (not attendance and dismissal) from 3:15 pm to 3:45  pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the times that we run clubs.  We will likely run one 6-8 week session of clubs starting in September and concluding in November.  If we can’t find someone to cover dismissal on Tuesdays and Thursdays for this first club period, it will affect our ability to provide after school clubs.  There are incentives for helping us with this program.  If you are interested, please email ASE Coordinator Moni Sears at [email protected] or Club Connection Coordinator Norma Maiz at [email protected].   

      (2)    For the yearbook, we need a volunteer to work with fifth grade parents to help create and collect fifth grade yearbook advertisements.  Please email Yearbook Coordinator Norma Maiz at [email protected] if you can help.  

      (3)    We need a Vice President of Sponsorship who can administer our already-built Tiger Partner Program.  This position entails soliciting sponsors and ensuring they are properly recognized throughout the year.  For more information please email next year’s PTA President, Debbie Bresnahan at [email protected].

      (4)    We need a Vice President of Fundraising who can manage the logistics of the Tiger Trek event, order and distribute Tiger Trek t-shirts and help the PTA raise money throughout the year. For more information please email next year’s PTA President, Debbie Bresnahan at [email protected].

       

      Mrs. Dosal and Michael Gaines

      Grady Elementary PTA VP of Volunteers, Michael Gaines, won the Hillsborough County PTA Superman Award for his work in building our Grady PTA website, helping Grady PTA be able to accept online and credit card payments, and for building from scratch the online ASE club signup system.   Notably, Michael is also responsible for procuring the current version of the Grady Tiger mascot/logo (the playful growling tiger) that adorns our school, t-shirts and website.  Michael was completely surprised to have won the award.  The Grady PTA, however, is glad that the Hillsborough County PTA has recognized Michael’s innovation and hard work.  To see pictures of both the Hillsborough PTA award ceremony and Mrs. Dosal’s presentation of the award to Michael before the Spring Musical, please click here:  PTA Awards

      Additionally, Grady PTA also won a Volunteer Award and a Golden Participation Award for parent and grandparent involvment in the school.  Congratulations to our PTA. 

      The entire Grady PTA board, Grady administration, teachers and staff thank Grady's generous families for their kind contributions to Gift Card Raffle Day.  

      Grady Families, you have overwhelmed us with your generosity!  Your gifts help us show Grady's teachers & staff just how important and special they are.  Thank you so much for all of your kind donations, and for your time volunteering at our school.  All of your work makes our school a more wonderful place.  Thank you to each family and person named in this virtual thank you note for your gifts!   Please click here:  Thank You Note.  If we’ve left your name or gift off our virtual thank you note, please reply by email and we will write you a special thank you email and recognize your gift.

      Tomorrow between 7:30 AM and 8:30 AM, the Raffle and Silent Auction Items will be ready for you to deposit tickets into the drawing/raffle boxes and bid on.  For rules, ticket prices and list of items, please click here:  Auction & Raffle Items.  Please help set up chairs tomorrow at drop-off:  Chair Set Up Volunteers.    

      Tomorrow is Thank You Note day for the Teachers & Staff.  You can print superhero themed thank you notes here:  Super Teacher Thank You Cards.  There are many other events tomorrow including Book Fair, Family Events at Lenny’s and PDQ and a PTA raffle/silent auction.  Click here for more information:  Thursday Events.

      Parents of rising fourth graders, the list of Battle Books for next year has been published.  Grady fourth graders will be participating in a Battle of the Books program and contest next year.  Parents, please buy or check out the books on this printable list: List of Battle Books;  and have your child(ren) read them over the summer.  Each of these award-winning books has been selected for the contest because it is fun to read.  Happy summer reading!

      Mrs. Dosal has won Principal of the Year from the Hillsborough County Elementary Music Educators’ Council.  The Music Educators’ Council selected Mrs. Dosal as its Principal of the Year in recognition of her long-time support of music education.  The award was presented Friday evening during an awards ceremony honoring music educators at Maestro’s in the Straz Center.  Both Mrs. Dosal and Mr. Florio, who nominated her, were in attendance.  Pictures are below.   Congratulations to Mrs. Dosal for this fantastic, county-wide honor!

      Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week is next week, May 1 to May 5!   There are many ways in which you can participate to help this coming week. 

      First, we are still in need of gift card donations for next week’s teacher appreciation raffle on Wednesday, May 3.  We hope to provide all the faculty and staff at Grady with an opportunity to win something in the drawing.  Please drop off any donations of gift cards or tickets in the front office and leave a sticky note with your family’s name on it, if you want recognition.  The gift cards will be given away during the Morning Show and your family’s name will be called out as a donor if you donate a gift card.

      Next, we need people to sign up to bring in simple food items for a teacher breakfast at 7:45 am  on Friday, May 5.  To see the very simple items you can bring into the front office, please click here:  Teacher Breakfast Sign Up.

      Please remember that Tuesday, May 2 is School Supply Day; Wednesday, May 3 is Superhero Shirt and Gift Card Day; Thursday, May 4 is Superhero Thank You Note Day and Friday, May 5 is Light Breakfast Day.  Please participate at a level that works for you while keeping in mind all the wonderful things Grady teachers and staff do for our children.  To learn more about Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week, please click here:   TSAW.  

      Also coming up is Grady’s Spring Musical, Dig It, A Musical Tale of Ancient Civilizations, which will be performed under the Pavilion on May 4, 2017.  The PTA General Meeting begins at 5:30 pm and the show will begin shortly thereafter.   We need help setting up and taking down chairs for this event.  If you can spare 30 minutes to help set up chairs right around drop-off on May 4, please volunteer by clicking here:  Chair Set Up Volunteers.  If you can stay and take the chairs down after the event, please stay for a few minutes after the Spring Musical is over to help.  

      We will again have a raffle for gift baskets at the Spring Musical.  Tickets are 1 for $1, 7 for $5 and 15 for $10.  Write your name and number on the back of your ticket because you need not be present to win.  We will also have a silent auction for theme park tickets and other items.  If you have anything to donate to our themed-basket raffle or silent auction (e.g. theme park or baseball tickets), please contact Julie Alexander at [email protected]

       Also, the PTA will be pre-selling raffle tickets Wednesday and Thursday morning before school next week, with the baskets available for viewing –  and for you to deposit your tickets into –  on Thursday (cash, check or credit card for raffle ticket purchases).

      Finally, an appeal directed at next year:  The Grady PTA needs you!  For next school year, the Grady PTA is need of someone with creative talent.  We are looking for someone who can assist us with graphic design of banners, t-shirts, and other items.   If you have this talent and/or software and are willing to donate time to help out the school, please contact us at by replying to this email.  We also have some board positions still available. If you would like more information, please email [email protected].

      Moms’ Night Out is Tonight at Bonefish Grill from 4:30 PM until 7:30 PM.  We hope to see many Grady Moms tonight.  Thank you to the people who are helping to watch the kids tonight, so that our Grady Moms can have a great night. Please click here for more information:  Moms' Night Out. If coming to the Moms’ Night Out will be a game-time decision for you, no worries.  Reservations are not required.  Please contact VP Krista Harvie with any questions at [email protected] about tonight.

      At a PTA board meeting yesterday, Grady Elementary PTA confirmed that we spent $5,781.00 on the extended learning program (free afterschool tutoring program) for 2016-2017.  Also at yesterday’s board meeting, Grady PTA spent $321.75 for Scholastic Science materials for third grade.  We also learned that the School District has denied our request to install giant fans under the Pavilion, citing safety as the reason, so we are going to reconsider our next large-scale project.

      Grady Elementary and its young artists won first place in the Florida State Fair Salute to Black History Art Exhibit Contest.  Grady won first place for its exhibit, “The Jackson House.”  The trophy pictured here: trophy, was awarded to Grady by the Hillsborough County School District for the best Black History historical art exhibit at the 2017 Florida State Fair.  Congratulations to Art Specialist Mrs. Grigsby and all the Grady students who helped make this winning exhibit. To see pictures of this award-winning exhibit, please click here:   Jackson House Exhibit.  

      As you know, Tuesday, May 2 is School Supply Day in conjunction with Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week.  We want to alert you to some great deals on boxes of copy paper at Staples.  Staples has the following specials going:  One 8-ream box of paper is $12.99 after rebate (the rebate is a Visa prepaid card) (click here: Copy Paper Deal #1); another 8-ream box is $14.99 after rebate (click here: Copy Paper Deal #2); and there is another 8-ream box of paper for $19.99, which does not require you to submit a rebate form (click here: Copy Paper Deal #3).  The deals expire soon, so please look at each link for details.  If you use the online delivery option, please email the teacher you intend to give the paper to and let her or him know to expect it.

      Information about Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week and the list of requested school supplies (on the bottom of the page) is here:  TASW.  To see some ideas for super-cute packaging of school supplies click here: Cute Ideas.   If you plan to deliver your school supplies in a delightfully cheerful and always-welcomed Target bag, as I will do, please don’t click on the cute ideas link.

      Grady Elementary and its young artists won first place in the Florida State Fair Salute to Black History Art Exhibit Contest.  Grady won first place for its exhibit, “The Jackson House.” The trophy pictured here was awarded by the Hillsborough County School District to our school for the best Black History historical exhibit at the 2017 Florida State Fair.

      Congratulations to Art Specialist Mrs. Grigsby and all the Grady students who helped make this winning exhibit.

      To see pictures of this award-winning exhibit, please click here:   Jackson House Exhibit.  

      Here's a picture of the trophy and certificate: 

      After school enrichment clubs started this week.  We do allow late sign ups for clubs that still have open spaces.  Please contact ASE Club Coordinator Moni Sears at [email protected] with any questions.

      Grady PTA invites all Grady Moms to a Moms’ Night Out on Thursday, April 20, from 4:30 pm until 7:30 pm at Bonefish Grill on 3665 Henderson Blvd.  There will be appetizer and drink specials.  Please come out and have lots of fun and meet other Grady Moms.  Reservations are not necessary, but are appreciated.  Please contact VP Krista Harvie at [email protected] with questions or to RSVP.  For more information please click here:  Grady MNO.  We hope to see you at this great event.

      Grady’s Spring Book Fair is coming.  For more details on the book fair and for the link to volunteer at the Book Fair, please click here:  Spring Book Fair.

      Thanks to our many wonderful volunteers, Grady’s Copy Center is staffed and up and running!  Thanks so much to our wonderful volunteers for helping teachers in a practical way.  For more information on the Copy Center, please click here:  Copy Center

      On March 31, Grady students, staff and faculty lit it up blue for World Autism Awareness Day.  To see the school’s picture, please click here: Grady Lights It Up Blue.  Also, please consider supporting Grady Elementary during the Autism Speaks Walk by clicking on this link: Autism Speaks Walk.  The walkers are raising money to support services for the autism community. 

      The Grady PTA Nominating Committee is seeking a Yearbook Coordinator for next year.  The Yearbook Coordinator works with our yearbook vendor, Strawbridge, to supply pictures and content for the yearbook.  There are already several volunteers who have agreed to take pictures at school events next year, so you will have help if you decide to take on this role.  If you are interested, please contact our current Yearbook Coordinator (and Nominating Committee member), Norma Maiz at [email protected]

      Additionally, Grady PTA still has some open board positions available, including VP of Fundraising, VP of Membership and VP of Sponsorship.  If you are interested in being more involved, but aren’t yet ready to commit to a board position, please contact Debbie Bresnahan at [email protected].

      Guidance Counselor, Ms. Barra, encourages us to read the April Home & School Connection, which is available in both English and Spanish.   

      Please join Grady PTA for a fun-filled Moms' Night Out at Bonefish Grill.  There will be food and drink specials and a great chance to get to know other Grady moms.  Reservations are not necessary, but are appreciated.  Please contact VP Krista Harvie at [email protected] with questions or to RSVP.  We hope to see you at this great event. 

      Details:

      Date: Thursday, April 20, 2017

      Time: 4:30 pm until 7:30 pm 

      Place:  Bonefish Grill, located at 3665 Henderson Blvd, Tampa, FL 33609. 

      Restaurant tel and website: (813) 876-3535 and South Tampa Bonefish.

      Grady Spring Book Fair

      April 4, 2017

      The Grady "Happy Camper" Spring Book Fair is coming.  The Book Fair takes place in the Kathryn Hance Media Center.  Preview day is April 28 from 8:40 am until 2:15 pm.  The Book Fair starts May 1 and runs through May 5 from 7:40 am until 2:40 pm, each day.  There will be special night time shopping hours during the Spring Musical and the Book Fair will be open from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm on Thursday, May 4.

      The Book Fair is also online from April 22 until May 5.  Click on this link to see learn more:  Grady Book Fair Page.

      Please volunteer at the Grady Spring Book Fair.  To see the book fair volunteer schedule and sign up online, please click here:  Volunteer At The Book Fair.

      There are no longer any openings in Cooking Club either through the online or paper sign up process.  If your paper application for Cooking Club was received by our Club Coordinator before 8 am on March 29, you will be contacted about a spot in the club; no additional paper or online applications for Cooking Club will be received.  

      It is time to begin establishing PTA leadership roles for next year.  To that end, Grady PTA is forming a Nominating Committee to seek out next year’s PTA leaders.   If you are interested in serving on the Nominating Committee or are interested in any of the following Grady PTA positions, please send an email to [email protected].

      PTA positions:  Events (plan and manage events as leader or part of a committee); Fundraising (plan and manage a fall fundraiser and Tiger Trek as leader or part of a committee); Membership (encourage people to join the PTA and make a list of the members and their contact information);  Sponsorship (help businesses and families become Tiger Partners and ensure that Tiger Partners receive all the benefits of their sponsorship);  Home Room Parent Coordinator (work with Home Room Parents to inform them of their duties and help them perform their duties); Fifth Grade Parent (plan and manage all fifth grade activities including end-of-year banquet); and After School Club Coordinator (supervise Grady dismissal, take attendance, send students to club classrooms, supervise club carline dismissal).  There are many more positions, this is just a sampling; if you have ideas on how you can help, please send an email to [email protected].

      The sign up period for the next round of Grady After School Enrichment (“ASE”) Clubs is open.  Please click here to read about the clubs and sign up online:   After School Enrichment Clubs.  Clubs start during the week beginning April 10 and conclude the week beginning May 15.  If you have any questions or comments about clubs, please email the ASE Club Coordinator at [email protected]

       

      Auditions for third to fifth graders for the Dig It  musical take place tomorrow, March 21, during the school day.  If your student didn’t spend spring break preparing for her/his acting role, please practice tonight using this script:  Script & Permission Form.  Please bring the signed permission slip to the audition.   Auditions for first and second grade students take place Thursday, March 23, also during the school day, using the same script and permission slip.  For more information on Spring Musical Auditions, please click here:  Spring Musical Auditions.  Please contact Music Specialist, Steven Florio, at [email protected] with any questions.

      Grady Elementary students will perform in the musical production, Dig It, on Thursday, May 4, 2017.   The Music Department is looking for motivated actors and actresses to star in this production.   Auditions will be held for the following students at the following times:

      * Tuesday, March 21, for 3rd to 5th grade students, during the school day (at 9:10 am); and

      * Thursday, March 23, for 1st and 2nd grade students, during the school day (at 9:10 am)

      If your Grady student wishes to audition, please print the permission form and script linked here:  Permission Form & Script.   Students should practice the audition lines and return the signed permission form to Music Specialist Mr. Florio on the day of the audition.  Please contact Mr. Florio at [email protected] with any questions. 

      This is going to be another amazing Spring Musical and we hope your family is able to participate in it and enjoy it. 

      Please join us tonight from 6 pm to 9 pm at Lee Roy Selmon’s for Family Night. For details, please click here:  Selmon's Family Night.

      Also, the deadline to order Grady yearbooks is March 10, 2017.  We cannot guarantee that your child will receive a yearbook if you do not order it by March 10.  Please click here for information on how to order your child’s yearbook and an online ordering link:   Grady Yearbook.

      Spring pictures are March 9.  Please send your children to school with big Grady smiles on Thursday. 

      Please remember that the last club session for each of the winter after school clubs is this coming week, March 6-9.   The ASE clubs ending this coming week are Basketball, Robotics, Art, Photography, Soccer, Science, Chess, Lego, Spanish & Music, 3-D Art, and Running Club.

      When we return from Spring Break, there will be no clubs again until April 10.  If you have comments about the clubs, please email ASE Club Coordinator, Moni Sears, at [email protected].  

      Please join us for Family Night at Lee Roy Selmon’s on Monday, March 6, from 6 pm to 9 pm, details:  Selmon's Family Night.

      Don’t forget to buy your child’s yearbook before Spring Break:  Grady Yearbook

      Thank you to the members who attended today’s PTA general meeting in front of the flagpole.  The motion to amend the PTA budget to spend money on giant fans for the Pavilion was approved.  We will keep you updated on the progress of this project.  We are able to make this major improvement because of your donations, volunteering and involvement. 

      Good news!  The awning over the playground has been repaired and the playground is now ready for kids.  Thanks to Mrs. Dosal for making many calls to get this repair complete.  To see a picture of the repaired awning, please click here:  Playground Awning

      Jump Rope For Heart results are in. Grady Elementary’ s total donations to the American Heart Association through Jump Rope for Heart are $6,200.00.   Thanks to all who donated to this worthy cause.   Physical Education Specialist Mrs. Michelle Murrell  gratefully thanks all of the donors and all of the parent volunteers who gave their time to make the event run smoothly.   The school-wide winner of fundraising for JRFH is Lucy Dingle in Mrs. Ward's first grade class.  Congratulations, Lucy!  Our school’s collective donations helped Grady earn a $300.00 gift certificate to U.S. Games to purchase new Physical Education equipment.  Prizes for JRFH fundraising participants  have been ordered and will be delivered and distributed in 3-4 weeks.  

      Please don’t forget the PTA General Meeting Tomorrow morning at 8 am to vote on a budget amendment.  The meeting will last only  5 minutes.   And, of course, please stop by the flagpole between 7:30 am and 8:00 for your Krispy Kreme Doughnuts.  $7/dozen or $1 each.  All proceeds benefit the fifth grade end-of-year activities.

      Monday night, March 6, please join us for Family Night at Lee Roy Selmon’s located at  4302 W Boy Scout Blvd. (near International Plaza).  Please mention Grady to your server so that Grady receives 10% of your purchase.  For more details, please click here:  Family Night.

      Thank you so much to the volunteers who helped make Jump Rope For Heart a success.   Thanks to the families who contributed to the cause.  To see some pictures of Jump Rope for Heart, please click here:  JRFH Pictures.

      There will be a PTA general membership meeting on Friday, March 3, at 8:00 am under the flagpole.  All PTA members are invited to attend.  The purpose of the meeting is to vote on a budget amendment that will allow us to buy a giant, roof-suspended fan to keep the Pavilion cool during P.E. and school events like the Spring Musical.  Please come by at 8:00 am on Friday to vote on this budget amendment.

      Friday there will also be a fifth grade Krispy Kreme doughnut sale from 7:30 am until 8:00 am in front of the school.  Doughnuts are $7/dozen or $1 each.

      Monday, March 6, from 6 pm to 9 pm, please bring your family out to Lee Roy Selmon’s located at 4302 W Boy Scout Blvd. (near International Plaza) for Family Night.  Monday nights kids eat free at Selmon's with an adult purchase of an entree of $9.99 or more and a drink.  Please tell your server that you are with Grady and Selmon’s will give Grady 10% of your purchase.  For more information, and to see the menu, please click here:  March 6, Lee Roy Selmon's.

      Next week, March 6-9 is the last week of Winter Clubs.  We will be setting up a final 6-week round of clubs to start on April 10 and will notify you when the online sign up period for the next round of clubs is open.

      Please buy yearbooks soon!  Click here for more information about yearbooks: Grady Yearbook.   

      March 9 is Spring Picture day. 

      Jump Rope for Heart takes place tomorrow.  Please send Grady students to school in sneakers.  Please send back the participation and fundraising forms that were sent home at the beginning of the month.  For more information about JRFH please click here:  JRFH.   To volunteer tomorrow, please click here:  Volunteer for JRFH.

      If you haven’t ordered a yearbook for your child, please do so before Spring Break.  This year’s yearbook has 92 pages, which is 20 more pages than last year’s yearbook.  There will be 31 pages of class pictures, 41 pages of pictures of school events and 20 pages of dedications.  For more information about the Grady Yearbook, please click here:  Grady Yearbook.  There is a yearbook signing party on May 22.  If you want your child to have a yearbook for this event, please order your yearbook soon.

      The Kindergarten students performed a Valentine’s Concert for their families on February 14.  To see some pictures of the event, please click here:   Too Much Cuteness!

      Jump Rope For Heart is this Friday, February 24, 2017, on campus.  It’s not too late to donate to JRFH  by sending in the forms sent home in backpacks or by registering and donating online.  Click here for more information:  Jump Rope for Heart Information.  All students who donate at the $50 level will receive JRFH t-shirts.  Students with the JFRH shirt will be featured in a special yearbook photo of the students standing in the shape of a heart.

      There are Jump Rope For Heart volunteer spots still available:  from 8:45 am to 10 am (while the Kindergarteners and Ms. McAlister’s class participate); from 11:00 am to 11:55 am (while third grade and Ms. Nichols’ and Ms. Eveland’s classes participate); and from 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm for clean-up.  If you can spare some time to volunteer, please click here to volunteer online:  JRFH Volunteers.   

      The final count for Box Tops was 7,200 submitted.  This will generate $720.00 for our school.  Thanks again to all of you for clipping and submitting Box Tops.  To see some photos of fifth graders enjoying the Box Top popsicle party that occurred on Friday, please click here:  Popsicle Party.   The fourth grade also enjoyed a popsicle party, but due to testing, their party was later and there are no pictures.

      There will be a general meeting of the PTA membership on Friday, March 3, at 8:00 am under the flagpole.  This is also a fifth grade doughnut sale day, so we expect many parents to be available to come to this meeting.  The meeting will last 10 minutes or less.  The purpose of the meeting to amend the PTA general budget to include a line item for a giant fan that will be installed under the roof of the Pavilion to keep kids cool while they exercise and to keep guests cool during the Spring Musical and other events.  The cost of the fan is approximately $9,000.00, which we have raised through fundraising efforts.  We do feel that such an expenditure will benefit all of the children at Grady Elementary and we would like to get the project moving as quickly as possible.  So, please come out to the general meeting on March 3 to vote on the budget amendment.

      Grady PTA is calling a general meeting on March 3, 2017 at 8:00 am in front of the flag pole in the car loop.  The meeting will last 10 minutes or less.  The purpose of the meeting is to amend the budget to plan for purchases to enhance student experiences at Grady Elementary.  Please attend and vote.
      Grady Elementary was selected to participate in Florida State Fair Black History Art Exhibit. The theme for each school had to be based on Tampa's black history. The students completed art based on the prominent African-Americans that visited the Jackson Rooming House located on Zack Street in downtown Tampa. This was the only hotel where African-Americans could stay during segregation. It was built in 1901 by Moses and Sarah Jackson and was in business until the late 1980's.

      Come on down to Grady's Kindergarten Round Up on January 26, 2017, at 8:30 am.  Parents, grandparents and children are welcome to attend. Adults, please bring your government-issued identification with you in order to check in to the school for the program.  The program starts promptly at 8:30 am in the Kathryn Hance Media Center.

      School administrators and each of the Kindergarten teachers will speak. The program will conclude with a tour of each of the Kindergarten classes. No RSVP is necessary. 

      To learn more about Grady Elementary, visit our school facts page at:http://gradytigers.org/grady-elementary-at-a-glance.  To learn more about how the students at Grady Elementary have performed academically, please click here: http://gradytigers.org/pride

      For more information about the process of registering your child for kindergarten please visit: http://www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/doc/842/kindergarten/resources/entryrequirements/

      We look forward to seeing you at Kindergarten Round Up!  Please call Ms. Valenti at (813) 872-5325 with any questions.

      Grady Elementary is honored to have been selected by the Florida Department of Education as a winner of the Five Star School Award for the 2015-16 school year.  The honor is awarded to schools committed to in incorporating family and community members into the school environment. 

      In determining whether to give the award, the FDOE considers the school’s efforts and results in five areas:  Community/Business Partnerships, Family Involvement, Volunteerism, Student Community Service and School Advisory Council.  

      Grady consistently has very high volunteer hours.  In fact, the volunteers in our school have repeatedly helped us win district-wide PTA awards for volunteerism. Grady Elementary has had a 100% membership PTA for several years, demonstrating parent involvement.  Our students and families have served the community through food drives (for Alpha House and End 68 Hours of Hunger), Pasta for Pennies (info here: prior newsletter), Tiger Leadership Council, Poetry for a Purpose (photo of published book), and many other community initiatives. And our Grady Tiger Partners, both Family Partners and Business Partners, confirm our community and business partnerships.  All of these factors pushed us over the top to win this award.

      Congratulations and thank you to the volunteers, family and business partners, hard-working community-minded students and parents who helped us to win this award.  Awards from the Department of Education have positive consequences for our school; and every award helps us rise in notoriety.  This award would not be possible without the commitment to excellence by the Grady faculty, staff and administration.  They establish the culture of our school.  They set the expectation of participation, volunteerism, partnership and community involvement.  So, thank you and congratulations to Grady faculty, staff and administration for this fine honor.

      To read more about the Five Star School Award, please click here: Five Star School Press Release.

      Hillsborough County PTA will be honoring and awarding participants in its Reflections Art Contest on January 8, 2017 from 2-4 pm at Strawberry Crest High School.  22 Grady Students whose art work was submitted to the Hillsborough County Reflections Art Contest will have their work on display.  Good luck, Grady Tigers!  For more information, please contact Reflections Program Coordinator Ellen Lyons at [email protected].  

       

      The Grady Fifth Grade Math Bowl Team has won Second Place in the Area 1 Math Bowl!   Congratulations to the Math Bowl Team and to the Math Bowl Sponsor, Ms. Neukamm!  To see a picture of the victorious Math Bowl team, made up of Wayne Belser, Nicholas DeVoe, Erin Dougill, Davis Hackel, and Misha Patel, please click here:  Math Bowl.   

      We are so proud of our Grady Math Bowl Teams.

      Tonight starting at 5:30 PM, is the Family Night of Reading at Barnes & Noble, located at 213 N. Dale Mabry Hwy.  Mrs. Dosal will start the evening by reading a holiday book to the group.  She will be followed by Mr. Campbell, Ms. Quevedo, Mrs. Brinson, Ms. Trupp and Ms. Ona (f/k/a Ms. Janasiewicz).  The last reader of the night is Mr. Tsourakis.  He will do a reading of The Polar Express.  During the evening there will be a craft table, where your child can make personalized gift tags or ornaments.  At 7 PM, complimentary hot cocoa and cookies will be served.  It will be a very special night.

      Please come on out and enjoy the stories.  During the event, and for the rest of the weekend, Barnes & Noble will donate a portion of any purchases made to Grady.  Please mention Grady at the counter.  For anyone who cannot attend, there is an online book fair, at http://www.barnesandnoble.com/h/bookfairs, (presently B&N is offering 20% off).  At the checkout page, just click the box that asks if this is a book fair order and put the book fair code: 12043113 into the box that appears.  We use the money that is raised from this book fair to help the teachers buy more books for the school.

      Please come out tonight for a night of family fun and a great cause.

      Also please make sure you’ve calendared, the special Holiday Moms' Night Out on Wednesday, December 14, from 5:30 PM until 8:30 PM at Carmel Kitchen. Enjoy complimentary appetizers and drink specials and get to know other Grady Moms.  Reservations are not required, but are appreciated.  To RSVP, please email VP of Fundraising, Krista Harvie, at [email protected].  We hope to see many Moms at this event.

      Please join us for a special Holiday Moms' Night Out on Wednesday, December 14 from 5:30 to 8:30 pm at Carmel Kitchen, 3601 W. Swann Avenue.  Enjoy complimentary appetizers and drink specials and get to know other Grady Moms.  Reservations are not required, but are appreciated.  To RSVP, please email VP of Fundraising, Krista Harvie, at [email protected].  We hope to see many Moms at this event.

      Grady Elementary School has received notice from the State of Florida that Grady Elementary ranks in the Top 10% of all elementary schools in the State of Florida in the following four categories: (1) English Language Arts Achievement; (2) Mathematics Achievement; (3) Science Achievement; and (4)  English Language Arts Improvement.   This is a remarkable achievement and shows that Grady Elementary teachers, students and parents are all working hard to create amazing outcomes for Grady students.   

      The State of Florida's notification included a hand-written note from Governor Rick Scott addressed to Principal Dosal, which stated "Great job!"  We are so pleased that Governor Scott has taken note of our school's success and we are as proud as ever to receive confirmation that Grady's programs are among the very finest in the State.  To see a picture of the notification and hand-written note, please click here:  Grady: Top 10% in State of Florida

      Yesterday, the Reflections Art Program concluded with an ice cream party and awards ceremony.  To see pictures of the party and awards ceremony, please click here:  Reflections Art Program.  To download a slide show of the art that won the Reflections Art Contest for each grade level, please click here:  Slide Show.  The winning art will proceed to the Hillsborough County Reflections Art Contest, which will feature a January art show and award program.   A big thank you to art teacher, Ms. Grigsby, and to the volunteers who helped with the Reflections Art Program this year!  The big smiles on students’ faces at the art awards party showed us that this program is really worthwhile.

      Grady mom and professional photographer, Patricia Cannon, has updated her link of Grady Fall Festival photos to include picture of the Storybook Parade.  To see the photos, click here and scroll down past the Fall Festival photos:http://sweetplumphotography.com/grady.  To download photos without the Sweet Plum Photography logo, click on the photo to select it and then scroll up and press “download” in the upper right top of the screen.  The photos will download without the logo.  Thank you to Patricia Cannon and Sweet Plum Photography for the pictures. 

      The Pasta for Pennies program, which collects donations for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, is going on right now.  Students can collect money and bring it to their homeroom teachers.  All money donations are due by Thursday, November 10.  Thank you very much for your donations to support this worthy cause.

      Picture retakes are on November 8. There is no school on November 11.  The Thanksgiving Luncheon is on November 15.  The Great American Teach In is coming up on November 17.  It’s not too late to sign up, so please click here if you are interested:  GATI.  

      Grady Elementary continues to excel at preparing students for life.  Excellent teaching and parents’ contributions of time, talent and good parenting are the keys to this success.  Thank you for supporting our school.

      Grady Elementary School has received notice from the State of Florida that Grady is in the Top 10% of all elementary schools in the State of Florida in the following four categories:

      1.  English Language Arts Achievement

      2.  Mathematics Achievement

      3.  Science Achievement

      4.  English Language Arts Improvement

      The State of Florida's notification included a hand-written note from Governor Rick Scott addressed to Principal Dosal, which stated "Great job!"  We are so pleased that Governor Scott has taken note of our school's success and we are as proud as ever to receive confirmation that Grady's programs are among the very finest in the State.  A picture of the notificataion is below.

       

       

      Grady's Photography Club will be displaying their club portfolio and individual projects at Kahwa Coffee on 3928 Henderson Blvd. on Friday, November 4, from 6 pm until 7 pm. Please come out and enjoy refreshments and see the work of Grady's student photographers.

      Thank you very much to all of you who came to Fall Festival on Friday.  Thank you very much to the many volunteers who ran the festival booths, made snow cones, bagged popcorn, managed the bounce houses and did so many wonderful things to make Fall Festival run smoothly for our kids.  It was a very special evening and a great chance for Grady families to get to know one another.   To see some pictures of the Fall Festival, please click here:  Fall Festival Pictures.

      A hearty thank you to Mr. Campbell and Mr. Tsourakis for kindly allowing themselves to be slimed by Grady students.  To see video of Mr. Campbell being slimed, please click here: Mr. Campbell Gets Slimed Like a Champion and to see a video of Mr. Tsourakis being slimed, please click here:  Mr. Tsourakis is a Good Sport.

      Tomorrow begins Red Ribbon Week and tomorrow’s theme is “wear red.”  To see each day’s Red Ribbon theme, click here: Red Ribbon Week.  This Thursday, the first grade Girl Scouts will meet in the cafeteria at 6 pm.  For more information, please click here:  First Grade Girl Scout Meeting.   And next Monday, October 31, is Grady’s Annual Storybook Parade. To see a message about the parade that came home earlier this week in backpacks, please click here:  Storybook Parade.

      Click Read More to see a You Tube video of Mr. Campbell being slimed at the Fall Festival. Thank you, Mr. Campbell, for being such a good sport!

      Monday - wear red (school will hand out red ribbons)

      Tuesday - crazy socks day

      Wednesday - "turn your back on drugs day" by wearing your clothes backwards

      Thursday - turn in posters for poster contest.  Posters must be 8.5" x 11" and in landscape position.  Posters must relate to the theme "Drug Free Me" and drawn with markers, paints or crayons

      Friday - School Spirt Day - wear spirit shirts

      Please pick up your fundraiser items today from 1:45 pm until 6 pm in the cafeteria.  This is especially important for anyone who ordered cookie dough.  Cookie dough must be picked up today, please.

      Also, if you are able to help today or Monday with fundraiser pick up, please click here:  Volunteer to Help Distribute Fall Fundraiser Merchandise.  Thank you to the volunteers whom have already signed up!  We appreciate you!

      We have three new Tiger Family Partners to appreciate!  There are two new Leader of the Pack level partners, HOUSE OF HUCKLEBERRY and the Lyons Family - Mike, Ellen, Frank & Nick.  There is one new Cub level Family Partner, the Ledford Family.  Thank you so very much to our new Tiger Family Partners.  Grady is very lucky to have such wonderful sponsors

      Thanks to the Grady Moms who came out to the Moms’ Night Out!  We had a wonderful time and really enjoyed making new friends and getting to know one another.  Thank you to the dads, spouses, partners, and grandparents who picked up the slack and made sure the moms could have a night out.  We moms are grateful to you.  To see pictures of the Moms’ Night Out, please click here:  Moms' Night Out Photos.  

      Grady’s Fall Festival is coming up on Friday, October 21.  To read about Fall Festival and to pay by credit card to pre-order wristbands for unlimited games, bouncing, snow cones and popcorn, please click here:  Grady Fall Festival

      Congratulations to Grady fifth grade student, Emily Azevedo, a student in Ms. Trupp’s class!  Emily’s Hispanic Heritage artwork was selected to appear in a county-wide art show at the Hillsborough County Fair on October 20–23 and October 20 7–28 To see a picture of Emily’s art, click here:  Artwork, and to see some pictures of the Grady school-wide winners of the Hispanic Heritage Bookmark Contest, click here:  Bookmarks.  

      It is an unintentional 4-day weekend for Grady Families.  There is no school tomorrow due to Hurricane Matthew and  Monday, October 10 is a non-student day and there will be no school.  Stay dry and safe!

      Reminders: 

      The Book Fair is open late until 6 pm tonight.

      School Pictures are tomorrow.

      The Moms' Night Out is October 4, from 5:30 pm until 8 pm at Carmel Kitchen.  We've received a number of RSVPs, and we appreciate them.  However, RSVPs are not necessary, just appreciated.  We hope to see many Grady Moms tomorrow night. 

      Congratulations to Ms. Trupp, Mr. Bruce and Ms. Taylor, each of whom are being awarded for their commitment to excellence in education.

      Ms. Hillary Trupp, fifth grade teacher, has been named Grady Teacher of the Year 2016-17. Mr. Michael Bruce, Academically Gifted Program teacher, has been named Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year.   And, Ms. Karen Taylor, Front Office, has been named Non-Instructional Support Person of the Year.  Each winner has brought their best efforts and utilized their talents to serve the students at Grady.  A hearty congratulations to each of them.  To see a picture of them and to read a bit about the Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year Award, please click here:  Congratulations.

      Monday is the last day of the Book Fair.  The Book Fair is going amazingly well and we are so close to meeting the financial goal that will let some lucky students slime Mr. Tsourakis during the Fall Festival on October 21.  To ensure we meet our financial goal, Mr. Tsourakis is opening the Book Fair up LATE on Monday. The Book Fair will be open LATE on Monday until 6 pm!   Any YMCA parents who want to shop after picking up their children can proceed right to the Media Center.  Any non-YMCA parents who want to shop, please go to the school gate on Church Street, where Mr. Tsourakis will have his cell phone number posted.  Call the number, and Mr. Tsourakis will let you in to shop.   Mr. Tsourakis also gives a huge “THANK YOU” to all of the wonderful volunteers who have given so much of their time this week to help ensure the success of the Book Fair. 

      As you plan your next week, remember that we are having a Moms’ Night Out on Tuesday, October 4 from 5:30 pm until 8 pm at Carmel Kitchen.  There will be drink and food specials, see here:  Food & Drink Specials.  It is not necessary to RSVP, but it is appreciated.  If you have questions or want to RSVP, please email Krista Harvie at [email protected].   

      Also next week is student pictures on October 4.  It is a voluntary non-uniform day.  If would like to order pictures and don’t have an order form, there are plenty of additional order forms in the front office.  

      Please keep sending in Box Tops.  The deadline is October 21.  Please click here for more information:  Box Tops.   

      Congratulations y felicidades to the Grady students who have won the Hispanic Heritage Bookmark Contest.  To see the complete list of winners, please click here:  Congratulations to the Hispanic Heritage Bookmark Winners!

      Today Grady PTA has made the purchase of $318 in art supplies to pay for Grady students to participate in the Reflections Art Program.  The Reflections Program encourages and celebrates student artists.  This year, students will be reflecting on the theme “What’s Your Story?” to develop a piece of art that expresses a narrative about who they are as a person.  The program will be overseen by Grady Art Teacher, Ms. Debonique Grigsby, and the art work will be completed by student artists in grades 1-5 in Art Class.  There will be a professionally-judged art contest at the end of the program, complete with award ribbons for the top three art pieces in each grade, honorable mention ribbons, and an awards party that will double as an ice-cream social.  

      Send In Box Tops By October 21

      September 27, 2016

      Grady receives 10 cents for very Box Top collected and submitted. This money is used for teacher grants, student supplies and classroom needs. Last year, Grady Elementary received $1,161,20 in Box Top funds. Historically, Grady has received 9,442.19, just from clipping and submitting box tops.

      Please help us make it another great box top year. Please clip and send in box tops in clear ziploc-style bags, with a maximum of 50 Box Tops per bag. Please write the number of Box tops on a slip of paper in the clear ziploc-style bag. Please send in Box Tops between now and October 21.

      Grady PTA invites mothers to a Moms’ Night Out on Tuesday, October 4 from 5:30 pm until 8 pm, at Carmel Kitchen, 3601 W. Swann Ave.  Moms' Night Out is an opportunity for moms to get to know one another while our spouses, partners or grandparents take care of the kids!  To see pictures of the Moms’ Nights Out from last year click here:  MNO October 2015 and here: MNO February 2016.  To see the fantastic $4, $5, and $6 food and drink specials that will be available until 7 pm, click here:   Moms' Night Out Information.

      We have a new Bengal-level Tiger Family Partner, The Griffin Family - Drew, Jennifer, Roman & Cort!  Thank you so much to the Griffin Family for their generous donation to our school.  Because of donors like you, the PTA is preparing to fund and bring the Reflections Art Program to Grady for a second year.  

      Grady PTA is again planning to bring the Scripps National Spelling Bee to our school in December.  We are in need of a Spelling Bee Chair to help coordinate the event.  The position involves ensuring the school’s registration is completed (the PTA pays all of the registration fees, copying and distributing the spelling words list to the third, fourth and fifth grades (the lists may not be posted online), ordering trophies and certificates for the winners, organizing the event, and finding the moderator, timekeeper and judge (we hope the people who served in those capacities last year will again volunteer for those positions).  The Spelling Bee occurs in early December during the school day in the cafeteria and is watched by most of the students in the school.  If you are interested, or want to contribute in any way, please email President Kris House at [email protected], for more details.  

      We are just 35 memberships away from being, once again, a 100% membership PTA.  If you know someone who has not yet joined, or you think your child’s grandparents or other relatives would benefit from membership, please send them this link:  PTA Membership Information, with information about membership; and this link:  Online Membership Sign Up,  to join and pay online. 

      We thank you for your membership and remind you that you can get discounts at Legoland through the Florida PTA’s website, http://www.floridapta.org/, and that you can designate Grady PTA as the recipient of a portion of your Amazon purchases on  Amazon Smile.  Follow this link: https://smile.amazon.com/ch/23-7102322 to get started.  

      Grady PTA has, as of yesterday, funded over $2,000 towards the following items for teachers and students:  Scholastic “Science Spin,” “Let’s Find Out,” and “Storyworks” magazines for students in ASD K-1, Third, Fourth and Fifth Grades;  12 Kindle reading devices for Fourth Grade, the BrainPop educational app/software for use of students in ASD K-5; inflation equipment for the physical education program, chair pockets for Ms. Hero’s students, and an updated TV studio backdrop for the Morning Show.  The Scholastic magazines we purchased are aligned to common core standards and provide additional fictional stories as well as non-fiction for students to read.  They also offer vocabulary and grammar instruction and have online resources.  Thank you to our Grady teachers for researching these educational tools and asking us to fund them.   Grady PTA’s purpose is to fund these educational enhancements. Teachers, please keep the ideas for new educational tools coming.

      The Homeroom Parents meeting is set for Monday, September 26 at 8:00 AM in the Teacher’s Lounge.  Please contact Lead Homeroom Parent, Alisha Nelson, with any questions at [email protected].

      Great American Teach In will take place on campus during the school day on Thursday, November 17. Teach In is for adults to bring their talents to the classroom, by sharing hobbies or career information with our students.  It’s also a great way to get a sense of the work your child’s teacher does every day.  To register to teach at Teach In, please click here, print out, fill out and return this form  in your child’s backpack/folder.  Form:   Great American Teach In Registration Form.

      Thank you to all of you who have eaten at Firehouse Subs at 2227 S. Dale Mabry Hwy., this week.  Tonight is the last night of family week.  Please mention Grady to ensure we get credit for your purchase.

      The next Second Grade Brownies meeting will be on September 29 at 6:15 pm in the cafeteria.  For more information, please click here:  Second Grade Brownies Meeting.

      Guidance Counselor, Ms. Nancy Barra, asks us to read the   September Home & School Connection

      Book Fair, Sept. 26 to Oct. 3

      September 22, 2016

      Our Scholastic Book Fair is a reading event that provides the books kids want to read. It's a wonderful selection of engaging and affordable books for every reading level.

      Reading for pleasure inside and outside of school has real and long-lasting benefits. It unlocks the power of information and imagination and helps children discover who they are. Please make plans to come to our Book Fair and be involved in shaping your child's reading habits.
      Remember, all purchases benefit our school.

      See you at the Book Fair! 

      To peruse titles online, click here: http://www.scholastic.com/bf/gradyelementaryschool.

      To volunteer at the Book Fair, please click here: https://volunteer.scholastic.com/#/signup/HCx17siKa

      The 2nd grade Brownies will have their first meeting Thursday, September 29th at 6:15pm in Grady's school cafeteria.  All interested 2nd grade girls are welcome to join our troop for the first meeting!  Please park and drop off along Church Avenue by the school cafeteria.  Contact Jessica Sandoval at [email protected] if you have any questions.

       

      This week is Family Week at Firehouse Subs, located at 2227 S. Dale Mabry Hwy, near Plant High School.  From 4 pm until 8 pm each evening between now and Friday,  Firehouse Subs will give 20% of all gross sales back to Grady.  Be sure to mention you are from Grady Elementary School when ordering.

      The Grady Scholastic Book Fair is set to begin next week.  If you are interested in volunteering for an hour or two at the Book Fair (helping children select books, making change, stacking and organizing books), please email Media Specialist, Nick Tsourakis, at [email protected].  To see the volunteer opportunities, please register with Scholastic and look at the schedule at https://volunteer.scholastic.com/#/experience/login/HCx17siKa.

      We have a new Tiger Family Partner to celebrate and thank.  Feriyadi Hasnovi and the Hasnovi Family are Cub Family Partners!  Thank you so much to the Hasnovi Family!

      Please join Grady families on September 14 from 4-8 pm at PDQ, located at 2207 S Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33629 (near Plant High School) for an evening of student art and family fun.  Student art will be displayed on the walls of PDQ from 4 pm until 8 pm and PDQ will be giving back a portion of the proceeds to Grady.  Please make sure to mention Grady Elementary at the counter when ordering.  

      To volunteer to help display or take down the art, please click here: Volunteers.

      Thanks to the grandparents who came out for today’s Grandparents’ Breakfast for students with last names A-H.  To see pictures of today’s event, please go to the home page of our website,http://gradytigers.org/and click on the Grandparents’ Breakfast link.

      There is still time to register for after school clubs.  Please do so today or tomorrow by going to this link:  ASE Clubs.  Please contact Moni Sears with any club questions at [email protected].  

      Sorry for the non-working Legoland discount link attached to yesterday’s email.  To get the discount, please go to http://www.floridapta.org/ and scroll through the banner announcements until you see “PTA Member Days at Legoland.”  Click on that link and you will be taken to the Legoland ticket page.  As learned yesterday, there is no shortcut to this process.  

      We need volunteers to help display and take down art for PDQ Family Night on September 14.  If you can help, please click here to sign up:  Volunteer Sign Up.

      Thank you to the newest Grady Family Partners, Club-level Partner, the Angel Ortiz Family!  We are so excited to have your family sponsor our school.

      Have a great day. Don’t forget Patriot’s Day tomorrow, the Grandparents’ Breakfast for students with last names I-Z, and the media center volunteers meeting.  Remember you can always check our updated calendar for information about events: Calendar.

      Tiger Talk Update: Clubs

      September 7, 2016

      After school club sign ups are underway.  Already one club has filled up and others are filling up quickly.  If you want to sign your child up for an after school club, please do so quickly.  For information about after school clubs, please click here: http://gradytigers.org/ase.  To sign up for clubs, please click here: https://gradytigers.org/ase-club-signup.  Clubs start this coming Monday! 

      Grady’s Grandparents’ Breakfast is being held over two days, Thursday (for students with last name A-I) and Friday (students last name H-Z) from 7:15 am until 8 am in the cafeteria.  Grandparents, please come enjoy coffee, muffins and perhaps a visit to your grandchild’s classroom. 

      Friday is Patriot’s Day, and students are welcome to wear red, white & blue to school.

      Grady Art & Family Night is set to occur on September 14 from 4 pm until 8pm.  Enjoy student art, PDQ and know that a portion of your purchase will benefit Grady.  We need volunteers to help display the art at PDQ from 12:45 pm until 1:45 pm on Wednesday, September 14 (you will be finished in time to be at the school for car line pick up) and volunteers to help take down the art from 8:00 pm until 8:30 pm on the same day.  If you can please spare some time to help set up or take down the art for this wonderful event, please reply to this email or email [email protected]

      PTA members get special deals at LegoLand Florida.  To get the discount, go to http://www.floridapta.org/ and click through the banners to the LegoLand banner, then click on the banner for the ticket page.

      Support Grady PTA by using Amazon Smile to make your Amazon purchases.  Click here to get started: https://smile.amazon.com/ch/23-7102322.

      Please keep fundraising with our American Fundraising catalog.  If you are interested in emailing the fundraising information to your friends, please register your student at this site:http://www.fundsrus.net/ (School Code 651206669) and then send a link to your friends.

      WELCOME, One and All, to Grady Elementary’ s Open House taking place on campus Monday, August 8, from 5 pm until 7:15 pm.  This will be an opportunity to meet your teacher, drop off school supplies, and learn more about what will take place this coming year.  Grady Tigers will be "Earning Our Stripes" this year, so please come see what that means.

      Also, this event will be a chance to join the PTA, purchase spirit shirts, sign up for YMCA aftercare, learn about afterschool clubs, and participate in a free uniform swap.

      Come on out to this great event!

      School starts Wednesday, August 10, at 8:00 am.

      Congratulations to Grady Elementary students, teachers and parents for Grady's spectacular performance on both the Stanford Achievement Test (“SAT”) and the Florida Standards Assessment  (“FSA”).  In 2016, Grady turned in overall FSA scores that ranked second in the entire Hillsborough County School District, which includes 154 elementary schools.  Grady was number 1 among all elementary schools in the competitive Area 1 (South Tampa) zone.  On the SAT, Grady ranked 1st in both reading and math for first grade, and 6th on both reading and math for second grade.

      The test results and rankings demonstrate that Grady students are displaying mastery of the curriculum and national educational standards.  The results show that Grady teachers are effectively communicating the curriculum, working with students to develop the skills to master the curriculum and that students are able to demonstrate the skills and knowledge imparted by their teachers.  The results show that our children are experiencing educational success.  Congratulations to all who have made these wonderful results possible.

       

      How Grady Elementary Compares to Other Schools In Hillsborough County

      Below is a chart shows how Grady Elementary Compares to 154 Hillsborough County Elementary Schools in the ranking of test scores.  This chart compares the performance of students at Grady Elementary to students at 154 Hillsborough County Elementary Schools who took the 2016 Stanford Achievement Test 10th Edition (taken by first and second grade students) or the 2016 Florida Standards Assessments (taken by third through fifth grade students):

           Grade Level    

          Reading/Writing Score             

                  Math Score         
      1 1 1
      2 6 6
      3

      15

      5 (tie)
      4 6 (tie) 3
      5 4 6

      Fifth Grade also took the FSA Science Examination and tied for 6th place within Hillsborough County.

      Congratulations, Grady students and teachers!!

      The last day of school is here!  What a wonderful and fast moving school year this has been!  

      If you want to sign up to receive Tiger Talk emails next year, and didn’t already fill out the forms that came home in backpacks, then please click here:  Tiger Talk Sign Up.  Now is also a great time to join the PTA for next year.  To read about what our PTA does, please click here:  Information about Grady PTA.  To sign up to join the PTA online, please click here:  Join Grady PTA.

      We have extra yearbooks for sale in the front office for $20 each.  You can still drop by the school early next week and pick one up.  Please call the school at 872-5325 before you come by to make sure someone is available to assist you. 

      We have pictures of yesterday’s Fifth Grade Banquet up on our website and we have pictures of 1st – 3rd Grady's Math Bowl Teams.  If you have pictures you would like to add to the photo galleries, please send them to me via return email.   Thank you to all the parents who provided photos for our photo gallery this year.  We are always in need of photos for the yearbook and website.

      We want to know what you think about Family/Spirit Nights at local restaurants and if you have any restaurants to suggest for Family/Spirit Night locations. Please click here:  Family Night Survey to take our 5 question survey.  Again, thank you for all your participation in Family/Spirit nights this year.  This year, your participation added over $1,000 which was used to fund extra supplies and events at Grady Elementary.

      It has been the pleasure of the board and committee heads of Grady PTA to serve the greater PTA membership this year.  We thank you for your service to our school and wish you and your family a safe and happy summer.

      UPDATE: Important Weather Update
      After consulting with the National Weather Service and area agencies, ALL Hillsborough County Public Schools and district offices will be open tomorrow, Tuesday, June 7, for normal business hours.

      A hearty congratulations to Mr. Nick Tsourakis, who won the Hillsborough County PTA’s Instructor of the Year Award.  Mr. Tsourakis was nominated for the Instructor of the Year Award because of his creative use of reading incentives, his arranging for an author to speak to students by Skype, and of course, his willingness to be slimed by students in order to promote the book fair.  He also purchased a starter robotics kit for the library and received a PTA mini-grant to purchase the remainder of the robotics kit.  We are so delighted for Mr. Tsourakis and proud of the work he has done for our school.  

      On Monday, May 16, the Tampa Taiko Traditional Japanese Performing Arts Group visited Grady Elementary.  The group played traditional Japanese drums and told stories.  One story was about a group of two villages that decided to go to battle for scarce resources during a drought.  Instead of a physical battle, the villages decided to have a battle of the drummers.  The drummers from both villages played so loudly that the sounds provoked thunder and then rain, ending the drought and the need for war.  

      See below as the drummers perform and as Grady teachers get in on the act!

      To learn more about Tampa Taiko, whose appearance was made possible by Hillsborough Arts Council, please click here: www.TampaTaiko.com

      The Spring Musical is this Thursday.  Here is information about the event: Spring Musical.  We need volunteers to help set up the chairs for the Spring Musical.  Chair set up will take place from 7:45 am until 8:30 am under the Pavilion.  Please come by the Pavilion Thursday morning after drop off to help us set up chairs. 

      There will be a silent auction and a raffle featuring wonderful items (theme park tickets, restaurant gift cards, wine and more) at the Spring Musical.  However, you need not be present to win any of these items! You can pre-purchase raffle ticketson Wednesday morning in front of school from 7:45 am until 8:15 am.  Tickets are $1 each or 7 tickets for $5. Cash, check and credit card accepted. On Thurseday morning from 7:45 am until 8:15 am, you can not only pre-purchase raffle tickets but you can place the tickets in the boxes of the items you want to win and pre-bid on silent auction items.  If you are not present at the end of the Spring Musical when the winner names are called, you will be contacted to pick up your prize from the front office.  To see a list of raffle and silent action items, please click here: Raffle and Silent Auction Items.  

      Thank you to the families that came to Beef O’Brady’s family night last Wednesday.  It was our last Beef’s family night for the year and it was well attended.  We make about $100 or so per family night, so your participation really helps.  This week is Chick-fil-A Family Week.  That means you can order breakfast, lunch or dinner at Chick-fil-A at 609 S. Dale Mabry from Monday, May 16, to Friday, May 20, tell the cashier you are there for Grady, and a percentage of your purchase will be donated to Grady.  Every bit helps, and we appreciate when you take the time to help our school through family nights.

      Get ready for the Grady Elementary Spring Musical, a British Invasion, which takes place on Thursday, May 19, 2016!  Grady students will bring you the hits from the Brits in incredible style!  Here is the schedule for the Spring Musical on Thursday, May 19:

      Morning:

      7:45 am to 8:30 am, Volunteers set up chairs in the Grady Pavilion

      7:45 am to 8:15 am, Pre-purchase and deposit tickets in boxes for raffle items.  Raffle tickets are $1 each or 7 for $5.  Cash, check and credit card accepted. You do not need to be present to win.

      Afternoon/Evening:

      4:30 pm           FREE facials from Origins Cosmetics http://www.origins.com/ under the Pavilion

                  *         Get ice cream from Ice Cream Delight Truck

                  *         Visit the table sponsored by South Tampa Kids Dental Krewe http://www.southtampakids.com/

                  *         Visit the After Hours Pediatrics table http://www.afterhourspediatrics.com/

      5:00 pm           Bid on silent auction items and purchase tickets for the Spring Musical raffle. Place the tickets in the boxes next to the items you desire to win.  See list of silent auction and raffle items below!  Silent Auction and Raffle submissions end at 7 pm.

      5:00 pm           Visit the Book Fair in the Kathryn Hance Media Center (the Book Fair will be open until 7:45 pm) to visit with featured author, Augusta Scattergood.  For more information about the Book Fair, click here: Book Fair Info.

      5:30 pm           Grady Elementary PTA General Meeting

      6:00 pm           Spring Musical Begins!

      7:30 pm           Raffle tickets drawn and winners called out.  If not present, raffle winners will be contacted and asked to pick up items in the front office.  

      7:30 pm           Please stay and help put away the chairs!!

      Enjoy dinner after the show at Chick-fil-A.  Mention Grady to the cashier and percentage of your purchase will be donated to Grady Elementary.

      Silent Auction Items:

      Origins Basket:  $200 value http://www.origins.com/

      4 Sea World Tickets:  $421.76 value https://seaworldparks.com

      4 Sea World Aquatica Tickets:  $242.84 value https://seaworldparks.com

      2 Busch Gardens Single Day Admission Tickets:  $211.86 value https://seaworldparks.com

      Raffle Items:

      Gator Land--2 tickets http://www.gatorland.com/

      Girls Scout Cookie and Candy Basket

      Red Wine Basket 

      White Wine Basket 

      Joe and Sons Olive Oil Basket ($40 Value) http://www.joeandsonsoliveoils.com/

      School of Rock--1 month of free lessons http://schoolofrock.com/

      Otter Box--$90 gift certificate http://www.otterbox.com/

      Olive Garden--$30 gift certificate http://www.olivegarden.com/home

      Sweet Plum Photography--Motherhood or Family 30 minute photo session with 5 prints--$250 value donated by Patty Cannon http://sweetplumphotography.com/

      Gourmet Gift Baskets--$20 gift certificate

      Besito Mexican Restaurant--$25 gift card & 10 free guacamole cards http://www.besitomexican.com/TampaFL

      MOSI--4 admission tickets including the IMAX theater http://www.mosi.org/

      Martial Arts Advantage--Birthday Party Package for 15 people--$200 value http://martialartsadvantage.com/

      Cinebistro--4 movie passes http://cinebistro.com/

      Limited number of $10 Outback Steakhouse gift cards--to be sold for $5 each

      THANK YOU TO THE KIND DONORS OF THE RAFFLE AND SILENT AUCTION ITEMS!!!

      Grady Elementary was recently evaluated in the 2016 Teaching, Empowering, Learning and Leading (“TELL”) Survey administered by Hillsborough County Public Schools.  The TELL survey is an anonymous survey of instructional and professional staff in HCPS that assesses teaching conditions at the school and district level.  The survey asks participants to evaluate the culture of trust, the community support and involvement of parents, school leadership, overall student conduct, and the professional development of teachers.  Schools can receive scores from 1 to 100.  Grady received a 100 point rating on culture of trust, a 99.7 rating on community involvement and support, a 98.6 rating on managing student conduct, a 99.6 rating on teacher leadership, a 98.9 rating on school leadership and a 97.3 rating on professional development.  These are spectacular scores and reflect dedicated teaching and leadership and fantastic community and parent involvement.  Thank you, parents and teachers for helping to build a positive community for our students! 

      For more information on the TELL Survey, click here:  http://www.tellhcps.org/faq

      Grady's fourth grade students are now published poets!  

      Our fourth graders worked on poetry for Poetry Month.  This year (for the first time) in addition to binding their own work, we selected their favorite poems and compiled those poems into a published (paperback) book. Each fourth grader has a poem in the book.  

      Students also submitted artwork for the cover of our book.  The cover selected was illustrated by Sydney Nichols, fourth grade student at Grady.

      We sold the books for $10.00.  The proceeds of the book are being donated to Camp Corral.  We are proud to say that we have collected $420.00 in profit that will be donated to Camp Corral! 

      Camp Corral is a non-profit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of children of wounded, disabled and fallen military heroes by providing a unique summer camp experience with peers who share similar experiences.

      We are so PROUD of our Fourth Grade!!!

      The Grady Elementary Spring Book Fair starts May 12 (preview day) and ends May 20.  The Book Fair is a great way to get kids excited about reading and to buy some great summer reads!  Also you have the opportunity to donate books to your child's teachers' classroom and to children seeking treatment at St. Joseph's Hospital.

      For more information about volunteering for the Book Fair, please click here: Spring Book Fair.

      Shop Online at the Grady Elementary Spring Book Fair: http://onlinebookfairs.scholastic.com/default.aspx?f=3542685.

      Thank you for supporting our school Book Fair and developing a love of reading in your child.

      Ms. Reyher's team won the 4th Grade 2016 Grady Battle of the Books competition! The team will now move on to compete in the District competition on June 2nd at the Tampa Convention Center. Congratulations and best wishes to Team Reyher!! Click Read More to see pictures of the event.

      Thank you to the many Grady Families who donated gift cards for our Morning Show Gift Card Drawing that took place on May 5, 2016.  Each of the 67 teachers, as well as aides and administrative staff won a gift card in the drawing.  Each teacher will also receive a surprise gift on Friday May 6. Teachers were also treated to a delicious lunch today provided by all of you, the PTA. 

      The PTA continues to fund classroom projects including materials for science projects, and new books for each classroom (to be distributed shortly by Mr. Tsourakis).  The new books were purchased with the money raised during the Barnes & Noble Family Night of Reading, which took place on December 4, 2015.  Moreover, the PTA recently approved the purchase of additional classroom technology in the form of the Touch Chat app for iPads in the ASD program.  This funding is in addition to the $10,000 that the PTA recently paid for laptop upgrades.  Through both appreciation and donations to the PTA, Grady Parents are making our school a fantastic place for the best teachers to work, and we are helping to purchase the technology and educational enhancements that will ensure our children are best prepared for life.

      THANKS AGAIN TO OUR GENEROUS GRADY FAMILIES FOR MAKING TEACHER AND STAFF APPRECIATION WEEK GREAT!!

      Fifth Grade Parents whose children are starting at Coleman in August are invited to state whether they have an interest or willingness to serve on the Coleman PTSA Board of Directors. PTSA service is so important and Coleman has a wonderful PTSA with great leadership. Please click "Read More," and then click on the Related File at the bottom of the post, to learn about serving on the Coleman PTSA Board.

      The Grady PTA is pleased to announce that we are bringing back our popular garden project. We placed beautiful, multi-colored snowflakes in the grounds at the front of the school in December. Now, to bring some colorful happiness to the end of the school year, we will be placing multi-colored flowers in the grounds during the month of May. Each flower is $5, and will include either the first name of your child or your family's last name.


      Flowers must be purchased in advance. Order forms can be found in your child's folder or in the front office.  A printable PDF copy of the Order Form is also attached to this post as a "Related File."  To open the order form, please click on Related File and print. The order deadline for the flowers is Friday, April 29th. All proceeds will be used for school enrichment programs, new classroom technology, teacher mini-grants, and student supplies and enrichment. Please show your school spirit and Tiger Pride by purchasing a flower today!

      Please volunteer for the Spring Book Fair, which takes place from May 12-20 at the Katheryn Hance Media Center on campus.  There will be a planning meeting on Monday, May 2 at 1:15 pm in the Media Center.  It will be a short meeting to let everyone know what to expect while volunteering. If you are able to attend the planning meeting  please email Media Specialist Nick Tsourakis at [email protected] or use the Volunteer Spot link below.  

      You can use the Voluteer Spot link below to sign up for specific shifts.  Here's how it works in 3 easy steps:

      1) Click this link to see our Sign-up on VolunteerSpot: http://vols.pt/BzgHAK

      2) Review the options listed and choose the spot(s) you like.

      3) Sign up! It's Easy - you will NOT need to register an account or keep a password on VolunteerSpot.

      Note: VolunteerSpot does not share your email address with anyone. If you prefer not to use your email address, please contact me and I can sign you up manually.

      The book fair will run late one evening, when we will be hosting author Augusta Scattergood and the students will be performing in the Spring Musical. 

      For any questions, please call or email Nick Tsourakis at [email protected] or (813) 872-5325.

      THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO FOR GRADY!  Our book fair raises substantial funds for new books and your volunteering makes it possible for our students to enjoy new books each year!

      Please help Grady Elementary celebrate Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week from May 2-6.  Here’s how you can make it great:

      Monday, May 2  -Wear Your hat to school

      Let's tip our hats to the teachers and staff that help make us great.

      Tuesday, May 3 -Bring your teachers flowers

      Students can show their gratefulness with flowers that are made with paper, home grown or from the store. Give them directly to the teachers and staff on Tuesday, May 3rd.

      Wednesday, May 4 -Donate gift cards & gift certificates

      Students can pamper their teachers and staff with donated prizes. On the morning show, we will be having a drawing of the donations. Some ideas are restaurant gift certificates, massages, gift cards. Please drop your donation off at the front office before 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 4th.

      Thursday, May 5 - Make a card or write a letter of thanks

      We would like to have your child express their gratitude with thank you notes. Tell them how much they have helped you grow. Give them directly to the teachers and staff on Thursday, May 5th.

      Friday, May 6 -Bring sweet treats

      Students can bring in special treats that you have made or bought from the store to share with the teachers and staff. If possible, please individually wrap your goodies. Please plan to drop off the goodies at the front office on Friday, May 6th before 8:00 a.m.

      During Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week, the PTA will also coordinate for our teachers and staff:

      Grab-n-Go Breakfast (Monday)

      Appreciation Luncheon (Thursday)

      Thank You Bags (Friday)

      If you would like to contribute to the PTA-sponsored events and appreciation, please contact Avery

      Maniscalco at [email protected] to sign up.

      Thank you!

      Grady Elementary thanks its wonderful volunteers who give so much to help our school. Grady held a Volunteer Breakfast on April 8, 2016 to say thank you. The kindergarten class performed the song "Thank You" using voice and American Sign Language to thank our great volunteers. Please click "read more" to see pictures of the guests.

      The Spring Session of After School Enrichment Clubs ends as follows:

      LAST DAY:

      Art: April 11

      Basketball:  April 11

      Robotics 3-5: April 18

      Tennis  April 12

      Chess: April 12

      Science: April 12

      Photography: April 12

      Spanish & Music: April 13 

      Lego Builders: April 13

      Robotics K-2: April 21

      We hope you have enjoyed ASE Clubs this Spring.  We are working on a great line up for the Fall.  Please email ASE Coordinator, Moni Sears, for details: [email protected]. 

      Coleman Middle School invites parents of students in the fifth grade to attend an orientatiuon session on April 8 from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm on campus. Grady fifth grade students will be taking a field trip to Coleman that day (permission slips have already gone home, so please make sure you return them). For more information, please contact Coleman PTA President Jennifer Carlstedt at [email protected].
      Jump Rope for Heart at Grady Elementary was a huge success.  Students also learned about heart health and had a wonderful time jumping rope, bouncing in the bounce house, jumping hurdles and playing with hula hoops during the event.  Plus, through fundraising, Grady Elementary raised $7,046.48 during Jump Rope For Heart!  Thank you, students, teachers and parents for participating in this great event. 
      Grady has again earned an “A” from the Florida Department of Education for the 2014-15 school year.

      Grady’s “A” grade was based upon our students’ performance on the Florida Standards Assessment (“FSA”).

      Grady ranked 15th for total points earned on the FSA, out of over 140 Hillsborough County elementary schools. Grady tied for 10th highest in the county for Math, tied for 16th highest in the county for Reading and scored 14th in the county for Science.

      This is a wonderful achievement for Grady students, teachers, administrators and parents. The students at our school are excelling at the curriculum. Grady Elementary is fulfilling its vision of preparing students for life.

      A hearty Congratulations to all of us for making this happen!

      NOTE: To see the spreadsheets that show all of the top schools in each category, please click Read More, then click on the FSA Results link at the bottom of that page.

      Grady Moms, please come to the Grady Mom’s Night Out on next Thursday, February 25, from 5:30 to 8:30 pm, at Carmel Kitchen, located at 3601 Swann Ave. (corner of Himes and Swann).  Our last Mom’s Night Out was a huge success (see pictures here: Mom's Night Out Photos).  Many moms set up playdates, went to the movies and fostered new friendships as a result of this event.  So, please come out and enjoy a nice evening.  There will be $5 drink specials, happy hour specials until 7 pm and $5 sharable plates (calamari and shrimp, multiple types of flatbreads, chickpea fries, and more), so it’s going to be a very economical evening too.  Please reply to this email to RSVP (it is not necessary to RSVP, but it does help us with planning) and click here Mom's Night Out Details to learn more about the event.  We hope to see you there.

      Grady’s Box Top Competition ends next Wednesday, February 24, 2016.  Please keep sending in your Box Tops. The top 6 contributors (a student, teacher or staffer) who turn in the highest amount of box tops will win gift cards to local establishments like Outback, Smoothie King, and Eats American Grill.  To learn how to clip and submit Box Tops, please click here: Box Tops Information.

      Jump Rope for Heart is coming up next Friday, February 26.  We need volunteers to set up and clean up, and to "turn the rope!"  A link to sign up online to volunteer can be found here: Please Volunteer for JRFH Feb 26.  This event is sponsored by The American Heart Association, and a portion of the money raised will be given back to the Grady Elementary School physical education department. This money will be used for new physical education equipment and programs.

      Please join us for Family Night at Beef O'Brady's, located at 2819 S. MacDill Avenue (MacDill and Bay to Bay) on Wednesday night from 5 pm to 9 pm.  Enjoy a dinner not made by you, and know 20% of the proceeds will benefit Grady Elementary.  Please mention Grady Elementary to your server to ensure we get credit for your purchase. 

      Tiger Trek raised $10,000 for Grady Elementary!  Coincidentally, that's the same amount that the PTA recently paid toward the school's technology upgrade!  This money is going to be used to fund more technology as well as teacher grants, science supplies, art supplies, and books to enhance the curriculum.  Thank you so much to all of you who sponsored students, volunteered, and served as family sponsors to Tiger Trek.  Tiger Trek Prizes will be distributed on Thursday.  Additional Tiger Trek shirts are still being printed, but anyone who ordered a shirt will be notified as soon as they arrive.   

      This Friday, February 12, Krispy Kreme doughnuts will be sold in the front of the school next to the flag pole.  Doughnuts are $7/dozen or $1 each.  Cash, check or credit card accepted.  Proceeds will benefit the fifth grade end-of-year banquet, so please come by and get some doughnuts for yourself, your children or your office.

      Also this Friday, all Kindergartners will be performing in an absolutely adorable Valentine's Concert.  To see more information about the concert, please click here: Kindergarten Valentines Program.  Please remember to bring government-issued identification (driver's license) to check in at the front office before the concert. 

      Please start sending in Box Tops now for the Winter Box Tops Competition that ends on February 24.  For more information, please click here: Box Tops

      Kindergarten Parents and Family, please join us for our 8th Annual Kindergarten Valentine’s Concert on February 12, 2016 at 8:30 a.m.
      Our performance will take place in the Cafeteria. Please don’t forget to sign in at the front office with your driver’s license.  Every adult attending needs proper ID in order to attend the program.
      We will have refreshments and cookies to share!  Please join us for a program filled with love!

      Friday, February 5 at midnight is the deadline to register your child for Spring After School Clubs.  There are still spots open in Robotics K-2 and 3-5 and this program has a new curriculum that will involve building robotic models of animals, a windmill and a rocket.  There are also open spots in Photography Club, Spanish & Music Club, Lego Club, and Chess Club.  There are even open spots in our two sports clubs, Tennis and Basketball.  To see information about clubs and club choices, click here: Club information.  To register, click here:  Club Registration.   

      Remember, you have the option to pay in two installments for clubs.  To do so, simply email ASE Club Coordinator Moni Sears at [email protected].   

      Clubs start this coming Monday, so please remember to notify any aftercare provider that might be affected by your child’s participation in clubs.  And on your child’s club day, please remind your child to go to the picnic area between second and third grade for club attendance.  Students will be walked to their clubs from the attendance area.  Students will be dismissed either to the YMCA or to the car line. 

      Also, next Wednesday, February 10, from 5 pm to 9 pm, is Grady Family Night at Beef O’Brady’s located at 2819 S. MacDill Ave.  Next Friday is both the Kindergarten Valentine’s Day Program and the Fifth Grade Doughnut sale.  You can check our website www.gradytigers.org for the details on events.  And if you would like to see our Tiger Trek video, please click here: Tiger Trek Video.

      LEGOLAND FLORIDA has a special deal for Grady PTA members.  During all of 2016, Grady PTA members can purchase discounted tickets to LEGOLAND for $35 per person (adult or child) for the theme park and $50 per person for a combination ticket to both the theme park and the waterpark (waterpark opens on March 12, 2016).  You do NOT need any kind of identification to show that you are a member of Grady PTA to take advantage of this deal.  Simply click this link, LEGOLAND DEALS!, and enjoy tremendous discounts at LEGOLAND for you and your family. 

      LINK: LEGOLAND DEALS!

      Thanks to all of the many volunteers and parents who helped at our annual Tiger Trek Walk-a-thon this past Friday.  The event turned out great and the weather could not have been better.  The kids all had a wonderful time, got some great exercise, and even took home a few goodies from our excellent sponsors.

      Thank you to Jim Cornwell State Farm, Abdoney Orthodontics, After Hours Pediatrics, South Tampa Dental Krewe and South Tampa Pediatric Dentistry (Dr. Rudolph) for their generous donations and sponsorship of our event!

      The walk-a-thon orange tiger striped t-shirts were such a hit that we have had many requests by students, teachers, etc. to obtain one.  We have decided that we will leave the Tiger Trek Donation Page: Donate, active for one more week for anyone that would like a t-shirt to go online and make a minimum $35 donation.  Orders for shirts will be placed with the printer at 3:30 pm on Friday, February 5.  Prize levels have already been determined, so this donation would be for a shirt only.  You may also fill out a donation envelope which was sent home with all students the first part of January and give it to your teacher or leave it in the front office.  If you do not have an envelope, one may be obtained in the front office.  Please be sure to mark down your child's t-shirt size.  If an online donation is made, please let your student's teacher know your child's t-shirt size.

      Again, thank you to all who helped make this event a huge success.  Money raised from this event and others throughout the year are put towards teacher mini-grants, student enrichment programs, new classroom technology, etc.  We could not do these improvements without you, and appreciate each and every one of you!

      The sign up period for Grady After School Clubs ends at midnight on Friday, February 5.  Click here to sign up: Club Signup.  Clubs begin Monday, February 8.  Robotics Club is introducing new a curriculum that will feature all new WeDo Lego robotics models including animals, rockets and windmills.  Yoga Club for K-2 now offers the option for parent/child yoga, meaning that both the parent and child may sign up for this program.   This is not an adults’ level yoga program, just a program that focuses on balance,  Parents who sign up with their children will sign up for the club the same way the child does.  Parents should be prepared to present ID in the school office before each yoga club meeting. 

      There are still spaces in Basketball 3-5, Tennis K-2, Chess K-5, Photography K-5 (cameras provided), Lego Tampa History K-2, Spanish & Music K-5, Robotics K-2 and 3-5, and Yoga K-2.  Please contact ASE Club Coordinator Moni Sears with any questions about clubs at [email protected]

      Children will hear stories from Celebrity Readers from Local Krewes! Students may come dressed as pirates or in pajamas.

      There will be free books, beads, hot chocolate, cookies, and fun!!!

      Parents of students in Grades K-2 will attend a program on reading essentials in the cafeteria

      Parents of students in Grades 3-5 will attend an FSA Information Session in the Kay Hance Media Center

      Grady Elementary is having a Winter Box Tops Competition that ends on February 24, 2016.  Please start sending in clipped Box Tops in clear Ziploc-style bags with a maximum of 50 per bag.  In each bag, please include a slip of paper with your child’s name, grade level, teacher’s name, and the number of box tops.  Please send bags of box tops to school in homework folders or bring them to the front office.  Each clipped box top is worth 10 cents to our school. 

      Please help set up chairs for the Winter Concert tomorrow at 8 am.  It won’t take long to set up the chairs, so please come to the Pavilion tomorrow at 8 am to help.

      Bakers and buyers of sweet treats, please bring in baked goods (individually wrapped if possible) to the front office between 7:30 am and 2:15 pm tomorrow for use in our donation-only bake sale at the Winter Concert. 

      Are you looking for ideas for teacher gifts?  Why wonder when you can know what your children’s teachers like.  Please check out teacher profiles at Grady PTA’s website: http://gradytigers.org/grades.

      The Winter Concert starts tomorrow night at 6 pm.  There will be a short PTA general meeting at 5:45 pm under the Pavilion.  At the meeting, we will ratify the gifting of the perimeter fence to the school and establish a $10,000.00 budget to pay for upgraded technology at the school.

      The Tropicana Speech Contest was held for the 4th and 5th grade students with 4th grade student Faith House placing 1st, Maggie Warren 2nd, and Ava Green 3rd place.  In 5th grade, Taylor Hammond received 1st place, Alex Chagin was 2nd, and Landon Roberts earned 3rd place honors. 

      The 2nd annual Spelling Bee was held this morning at Grady Elementary School.  Emily Azevedo correctly spelled the word "Sanskrit" to take the first place trophy, followed by Daniel Kumm in 2nd place, and Nicole Sapienza in 3rd.  To see pictures of today’s Spelling Bee, click here:  Spelling Bee Pictures.  Parents who took pictures, please email them to [email protected] to have them added to our photo gallery on the website.

      Grady PTA has made over $1,000 from the Snowflake Garden, $125 from Beef O’Brady’s for the recent family night, and $9 from Amazon Smile.  Thanks to all of you who helped to raise these funds.  If you are using Amazon for holiday shopping, please consider using Amazon Smile to ensure a portion of your purchase benefits Grady PTA.  To use Amazon Smile for Grady PTA, please click here: https://smile.amazon.com/ch/23-7102322.

      Thanks for all that you do for Grady Elementary!  See you tomorrow!

      See pictures from the Grady Spelling Bee. Congratulations to all of the classroom winners! And, congratulations to the school-wide winners: Emily Azevedo in first place, Daniel Kumm in second place, and Nicole Sapienza in third place.

      Yearbooks On Sale Now!

      December 2, 2015

      Grady Yearbooks are now on sale! The Grady Yearbook is one of the best ways for your child to remember his or her time in elementary school and has individual pictures, class pictures, funny pictures and pictures from school events.  To order yearbooks online, click here: Order Yearbooks Online and use yearbook code 11885216.  For questions about yearbooks, please email Yearbook Coordinator, Janella Enajibi at [email protected]

      Grady Elementary sponsored a food and personal item drive for Alpha House of Tampa.  Alpha House is so very grateful for our donations and wrote us the following note: 

      "Thank you, students and families of Grady Elementary School, for the many boxes of generous donations for our food pantry from their Thanksgiving food drive. Lots of goodies for the Thanksgiving meal and other favorites for our moms and babies."

      THANK YOU!  HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

      Grady Snowflake Garden

      November 20, 2015

      Grady Gardens will "Let It Snow" this holiday season. Snowflakes can be purchased for $5 each and your child's first name, family last name, etc. will be placed on the snowflake.  Unfortunately, due to the size of the snowflakes, only one name can be accommodated per snowflake.  The snowflakes will be installed on wooden posts to be inserted into the front lawn area in front of the Grady Elementary School.  This is a great way to show school spirit, decorate our school for the holidays, and the children will love seeing their names on the snowflakes.  An example of the snowflake is shown at Grady Elementary School, right in front of the large "Let It Snow" blue banner at the front walk way.  Order forms have already been sent home with the students, but if you need another order form, we have attached one for you here: Snowflake Sign Up.

      Grady's Famkly Reading Night at Barnes and Noble will take place on Friday, December 4th from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at the Barnes and Noble located at 213 N. Dale Mabry Hwy.  Please join us for a night of reading by Grady teachers and faculty.  Mrs. Dosal will be reading at 5:00 p.m. and Mr. Tsourakis will do a special reading at 7:00 p.m. Other teachers scheduled to read prior to 7:00 p.m. include Ms. Driggers, Ms. Quevedo, Ms. Ward, Ms. Sandoval, Ms. LaCrosse, Ms. Oliva, Ms. Weathers, Ms. Trupp, and Ms. Harahan.  Complimentary hot cocoa and cookies will be served at 7:15 p.m.  Please join us for a night of reading, crafts and fun!  Barnes and Noble will be giving back a percentage of all sales to Grady Elementary School.  So, all purchases made in store on Friday, Dec. 4th or online from Friday, Dec. 4th-Sunday, Dec. 6th will directly benefit Grady Elementary School.  For purchases made in store, please let the cashier know you are with Grady Elementary so we will get credit for the purchase.  If you can't attend our book fair at Barnes and Noble, you can simply visit Bookfairs to do your shopping online.  Be sure to enter the Grady Book Fair ID 11721198 at checkout.

      The Gingerbread Shopping experience at Grady Elementary School will begin on Monday, November 30th and continue through Friday, December 4th, from 7:30-8:00 a.m. each day.  Gingerbread Shopping will take place on the stage in the school cafeteria, and will have items for the kids to purchase as Christmas presents for their parents, siblings, grandparents, etc.  These items range in price from $.25 each, up to $10.00.  This is not a fundraiser, but simply a way for school children to feel independent by purchasing presents by themselves for their family for the holidays.  Cash and checks made out to Grady PTA will be accepted, and the items your children purchase will be placed in a holiday bag and sent home with them that same day.  

      Firehouse Subs located at 2227 S Dale Mabry Hwy (just north of Steak 'n Shake) held a Grady Family Week from October 12-16.  Firehouse Subs donated $700.00 to Grady as a result of this week.  Thank you very much, Firehouse Subs!!!  We all enjoyed our subs and the school will enjoy the extra funding for books and teacher-requested items!
      Grady Elementary students have been reflecting on the sacrifices of those who have served in the U.S. military and have been honoring veterans through placing stars on the Veterans Day Wall of Honor.
      Grady participated in the PTA's National Reflections Art Contest. 37 students submitted pieces for judging. All of the young artists enjoyed an ice cream party and three artists will see their work promoted to the district level Reflections Art Contest. Congratulations to winners, First Place: Simrah Fahimuddin; Second Place: Elijah Carpena; and Third Place: Connor Shea.
      Spelling Bee participants and Winners

      The Grady Spelling Bee is coming up.  Last year Grady Elementary became the first elementary school in Hillsborough County to participate in the Scripps National Spelling Bee.  This year we are participating again.  A complete list of spelling words for the Spelling Bee is going home in backpacks November 4th or 5th.  Please start spelling now because the class-specific spelling bee takes place on November 20 via written test and the school-wide spelling bee, comprised of the winners from each class, takes place in the cafeteria on December 16 at 8:30 am.  Parents of the class winners are invited to attend the school-wide Spelling Bee.  Class winners will receive a Spelling Bee T-shirt and a $5 Yogurtology gift card.  First, Second and Third place school-wide winners will receive beautiful trophies.  The first place winner will proceed to the regional Scripps Spelling Bee. To see pictures of last year’s Spelling Bee, please click here:  2014 Spelling Bee Photos.

      Tiger Talk Update

      November 5, 2015

      Please join us for Grady Family Night, from 5 pm until 9 pm, on November 11, at Beef O'Brady's, located at 2819 S. MacDill Avenue (MacDill and Bay To Bay).  Please mention Grady Elementary to your server to ensure Grady Elementary receives 20% of your purchase.  Even though it is a school holiday, it’s still a great day to take a holiday from cooking and support Grady Elementary.

      The 2015 Reflections Art Contest was a tremendous success.  37 students entered pieces of artwork into the contest.  The contest was judged by a retired art teacher who is not associated with Grady Elementary or its PTA.  The judge said it was very difficult to judge the contest because the artwork was fantastic and that Grady has many great young artists.  Each of the students who submitted artwork was rewarded with a Young Artist Ribbon and an ice cream party.  Pictures of the ice cream party and the contestants with their art submissions are here: Reflections Photos.  Congratulations to the winners of the Reflections Art Contest, who will move on to the district competition: First Place:  Simrah Fahimuddin; Second Place:  Elijah Carpena; and Third Place:  Connor Shea. 

      The Tiger Leadership Council is spearheading the Pasta for Pennies Campaign, raising money to help cure Leukemia and Lymphoma.  The campaign started October 30 with letters and collection boxes sent home to each student and ends on Monday, November 9.  Students can donate pennies, nickels, dimes, etc. (and we even take checks).  If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask Ms. Dickens at[email protected]

      Also, The Tiger Leadership Council is collecting names from students that they want to honor on our Veteran's Day Wall of Honor, called: Our "Stars in Fighting for Freedom."  The names will be put on a star and placed on a banner in our hallway. 

      The Grady Spelling Bee is coming up.  Last year Grady Elementary became the first elementary school in Hillsborough County to participate in the Scripps National Spelling Bee.  This year we are participating again.  A complete list of spelling words for the Spelling Bee is going home in backpacks this week.  Please start spelling now because the class-specific spelling bee takes place on November 20 via written test and the school-wide spelling bee, comprised of the winners from each class, takes place in the cafeteria on December 16 at 8:30 am.  Parents of the class winners are invited to attend the school-wide Spelling Bee.  Class winners will receive a Spelling Bee T-shirt and a $5 Yogurtology gift card.  First, Second and Third place school-wide winners will receive beautiful trophies.  The first place winner will proceed to the regional Scripps Spelling Bee. To see pictures of last year’s Spelling Bee, please click here:  2014 Spelling Bee Photos.

      Grady Elementary is about to adopt a new website.  The website that you are used to seeing will be taken over by the PTA and will still be available with a complete calendar, teacher profiles, photo galleries, and news updates.  The Grady PTA website may be found atwww.gradytigers.org.  We will continue to update the Grady PTA website daily, so just go to the site anytime to see what is happening at school.

      Please volunteer to present at the Great American Teach In on November 19, 2015.  You can present on any topic or career.  The kids truly appreciate hearing from adults in their community.  To present, please email Nancy Barra at[email protected].

      On November 17, there will be a program on ADHD and Anxiety at Tampa Day School, presented by Dr. Wendy Rice and Dr. Norrine Russel of the ADHD Parent Support Network.  The program addresses the questions of "what does the combination of ADHD and anxiety look like?" and "how do we help those children in school?"  For more information, please click here:Program on ADHD and Anxiety.  

      Finally, there are 8 days left to shop the Grady Stella & Dot Trunk Show!!  Please click here to see the show: http://www.stelladot.com/ts/h08b6.  All the proceeds go to Grady Elementary!

      Dr. Norrine Russell and featured presenter, Dr. Wendy Rice, are presenting a program on ADHD and Anxiety.  The program addresses the questions of "what does the combination of ADHD and anxiety look like?" and "how do we help those children in school?"  For more information, please see the attached flyer: ADHD Parent Support Network Flyer. Here is information on the program:

      NOVEMBER MEETING TOPIC:  ADHD AND ANXIETY

      • Date: Tuesday, November 17, 2015
      • Time: 7:00pm
      • Location: Tampa Day School, 12606 Henderson Road, Tampa, FL 33625
      • Speaker: Dr. Wendy Rice, Rice Psychology Group
      • Free and open to all. No child care.
      • No pre-registration required.
      • Parents, teachers, pediatricians, and other professionals welcome
      • Contact: Norrine Russell, Ph.D. with questions, tel:(813) 508-2367; email: [email protected]; website: www.norrinerussell.com 

      The Storybook Parade is this Friday, October 30 starting at approximately 8:30 am in front of the school.  Please do not park in the car loop or at the US Post Office located at 1002 S. Church Avenue when attending the parade.  Enjoy a free cup of Kahwa coffee from Grady PTA while you wait for the parade to begin.  

      Thank you to everyone who volunteered at the Fall Festival.  The event was fantastic and it truly took a team of parents and teachers to pull it off.  Thank you to the many parents who volunteered time working the booths as well as those who purchased wristbands, food, and tickets to slime Mr. Tsourakis.  Your efforts raised $6,547.00 in revenue before expenses for Grady.  Thank  you to everyone who baked for the bake sale.  Your work raised $357.00 to pay for the Fifth Grade End-of-Year Banquet.

      To see pictures of the Fall Festival, click here: Fall Festival Photos.  To see a YouTube video of Mr. Tsourakis being slimed, please click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_IuNBzI1jhk. If you have pictures for the website or yearbook please send them via reply to this email or to [email protected].  We will gratefully post and/or publish your pictures. 

      Tomorrow is the deadline to submit posters for the Red Ribbon Week poster contest.  For more information about the posters, click here:  Red Ribbon Week Activities.

      Please sign up for Great American Teach In which will take place all day November 19, 2015.  For more information about Great American Teach In, please click here: Great American Teach In

      We will need volunteers to help serve ice cream and other frozen treats at the Reflections Artists’ Party on Wednesday, November 4, from 1:30 pm to 2 pm in the Art Room.  Please email [email protected] to volunteer.

      Grady's Storybook Parade takes place Friday, October 30, at approximately 8:30 am in front of the school.  All students are welcome and encouraged to wear a costume to school that represents a character found in a story book.  Students are encouraged to bring the book with their character and display the book while walking in the parade.  Please remember to send your student with a change of school clothes (uniform or spirit shirt and uniform shorts, jean shorts or skirt) so that they can change out of their costumes after the parade.  Please, no fake swords, knives, guns, etc. or any other costume paraphernalia that might get lost during the day.

      The teachers and administration also dress up for the Storybook Parade.  For pictures of teachers' costumes from last year, please click here: Teachers During 2014 Storybook Parade.

      Please do not park at the U.S. Post Office located at 1002 S. Church Avenue.  The post office will tow cars that park there.  Also, please do not park in the car loop or the remainder of the fire lane north of the car loop exit.  The Storybook Parade will be delayed if anyone parks at the post office or in the fire lane and the delay will continue until all illegally parked cars are moved.

      While you are waiting for the Storybook Parade to begin, enjoy a free cup of Kahwa coffee from Grady PTA.

      RED RIBBON WEEK ACTIVITIES

      Tuesday, October 27- Hand out Red Ribbons and Wear Red.

      Wednesday, October 28- "TURN YOUR BACK ON DRUGS"-Wear your clothes backwards.

      Thursday, October 29 -Poster Contest-Students will create their own “Say No to Drugs” poster (at home) and turn in to teacher no later than Thursday Oct. 29th @ 8:00 am. Teachers will choose ONE student per class as the winner and display the poster outside their classroom door. Each class winner will receive a free kid’s meal from Outback.

       

       Poster must be:

      -Drawn using colors, markers, paints, and/or crayons.

      -Posters must be original, no cutting and pasting of pictures or stickers.

      -Posters must be on unlined 8 ½ x 11 white paper and in landscape position.

      A Message from Principal Kristine Dosal:

      Dear Parents,

      This school year we are requiring elementary students to establish a unique password for the computer and software programs. We are sending you this communication to inform you about the requirement for secure passwords.

      In Hillsborough County we strive to be clear about the safeguards we have in place to protect student data. One of those safeguards is for each student to complete challenge questions and set their own unique password.  Students. choose and answer any three of the seven challenge questions from the list provided. The Challenge questions are only used as verification if the student forgets their password and needs to reset it.

      You Can assist your student by helping them with their responses to the challenge questions. These challenge questions will let students manage their own password resets. Resetting a password is a skill they will need as a digital learner and interact with technology.

      As students create unique passwords in elementary schools this year, the curriculum software programs they use will also transition to using this same password. The goal is to protect student data and personal information and provide greater ease of use by having the student use the Same password far all applications, i.e. Edsby, MyOn, The more students use this password the easier this process will became for them

      Protecting the personal information of our students in a secure and responsible way is at the heart of our efforts to provide a richer and more dynamic digital learning experience for all students. We appreciate your support in this effort.

      Please print and fill out the attached form (click here: Printable Password Form) and return it to your child’s teacher as soon as possible.

      Sincerely,

      Kris Dosal

      Come to the Grady Elementary Fall Festival on FRIDAY, October 23 from 5 pm to 7:30 on Campus.  Teachers and parent volunteers are working together to provide you with wonderful family entertainment.  There will be two inflatable play areas: a giant inflatable obstacle course with a slide and a bounce house. There will be a funny photo booth, snow cones, popcorn, hot dogs and baked goods.  Most importantly there will be Games, Games and more Games!!   The games include: the Doughnut Chomp, the Pumpkin Toss, Skee Ball, Basketball, Pumpkin Putt-Putt, Pin the Tail on the Cat, Pumpkin Stacking and even an R2D2-themed game of Operation.  Prizes will be given to each game player.  Also, there will be hair and nail painting booths, face painting, temporary tattoo booths, scary feel and mystery boxes.  Hours of fun, food and family time. 

      Admission to the festival itself is free for children and adults, but the games, food, bounce houses and photo booth cost money.  Without a wristband, games are $1 each and so are food items, except for the donation-only bake sale, which benefits the fifth grade.

      You can purchase a wristband for your child that entitles each child to unlimited games, bouncing, snow cones and popcornWristbands are just $20 for the first child and $15 for each additional wristband.  This is a substantial discount.  To purchase a wristband please print and return the attached form -Wristband Order Form - with a check payable to Grady PTA or drop by the front of the school on Tuesday or Wednesday from 7:30 am until 8:30 am to pay by cash or credit card.  Pick up of all wristbands will be on the night of the Fall Festival at the PTA table.

      Please purchase your wristband today and come out to enjoy our wonderful Fall Festival.

      To volunteer at the Fall Festival, please send an email to VP of Volunteers, Chely Sierra at [email protected], or contact your child’s teacher.  

      We need two kinds of volunteers for the Fall Festival. Each class will be sponsoring a booth and we need parents to run the booths. Parents, please contact your child's homeroom teacher or homeroom parent to volunteer for booth spots.


      Also, the PTA also needs volunteers to run the big items such as the bounce houses, grill, popcorn, food booth and snow cone machine. To volunteer for these positions please email: [email protected]

      Grady Elementary is participating in the Reflections Art Contest, a national art competition sponsored by the PTA.  The theme of this contest is "Let Your Imagination Fly," and all visual arts entries must relate to the theme of flying,  meaning that visual arts that depict flying bugs, planes, rockets or unicorns are all acceptable subjects.   Grady’s contest is being administered by Art Teacher, Lauren Niedergang (email: [email protected]).  Students in grades 3-5 have been preparing an art work that is suitable for submission in the contest.  It is the choice of each student, pending the permission of his/her parents, to submit a piece of art work into the Grady Reflections Art Contest.  Mrs. Niedergang has the student entry form and will send them home for your signature, but a printable extra copy may be found here: Reflections Student Entry Form.  Ms. Niedergang is also accepting submissions of visual arts (meaning ceramics, collages, photo collages with all original photos, and drawings and paintings) on or before October 23.  Only one entry per student, so if your student submits a separate entry, the art made during Mrs. Niedergang's class will not be submitted.  Paper works of art must be mounted on sturdy material like a cardboard mat, but may not be framed.  Although this contest is focused on grades 3-5, Ms. Niedergang is accepting entries from any Grady student, regardless of the grade of the student.  First, Second and Third Place ribbons will be awarded and every student's contribution will be celebrated.  There will be an ice cream party in the Art Room on November 4 from 1:30 to 2 pm to celebrate the student artists.  If you are able to volunteer to help serve ice cream at the party, please email Ellen Lyons at [email protected]

      The rules for submissions are here: Reflections Rules

      Please come pick up Fall Fundraiser Merchandise.  Pick up is in the cafeteria.  

      Wednesday October 14: 12.30pm – 6.30pm

      Thursday, October 15: 7.30 am – 8.00 am  AND 2.00 pm – 6.30 pm

      Friday, October 16: 7.30am – 8.00am  AND 2.00pm – 6.30pm

      Tiger Talk Update

      October 14, 2015

      What a great fall fundraiser we had! With your help we raised more than $6,000.00 for Grady which can now go towards programs to benefit your children. Items purchased during the fundraiser will be available for collection at the Grady Elementary Cafeteria from Wednesday October 14th. thru Friday, October 16th.  The collection times are listed below. We would appreciate if items, particularly perishables (eg. cookie dough, cheesecakes) could be collected as soon as possible to minimise the storage requirements.

      Wednesday October 14th: 12.30pm – 6.30pm

      Thursday, October 15th: 7.30am – 8.00am & 2.00pm – 6.30pm

      Friday, October 16th: 7.30am – 8.00am & 2.00pm – 6.30pm

      Our 2015 Fall Festival is right around the corner, Friday, October 23rd, 5:00-7:30 pm.  A flyer was sent home in binders last week, look for information on the activities and advanced purchase of wristbands.  Also, we still need volunteers to work the fall festival.  Please look for information soon, and consider helping make this event an even greater success.

      It's spirit week at Fire House Subs!  Each night this week from 4:00-9:00 stop by for dinner at the Hire House Subs on Dale Mabry, across from Plant High School.  Be sure to mention you're with Grady Elementary School.  

      A special thanks to all those who attended the Lee Roy Selmon's  Family Night, we earned $116. 

      Grady Family Week at Firehouse Subs

      October 12, 2015 - October 16, 2015

      It's Grady Family Week at Firehouse Subs, located at 2227 S Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa, FL 33629 (just north of Steak 'n Shake). Come in from October 12 to 16 and 10% of your purchase will benefit Grady. Please mention Grady at the register to ensure our school gets credit for your purchase.
      Thank you, Tiger Families, for all of your shopping and voting. Your work has resulted in Grady winning the Facebook voting competition (prize of $500.00) and third place in the shopping competition ($1,500.00 prize) through Westshore Plaza's Earning for Learning Competition.  This money will help provide Grady students with after school tutoring.  Thanks again to our families and to Westshore Plaza for operating Earning for Learning.

      Grady's Book Fair has been extended until Wednesday, October 7!  We are so close to our book fair goals and to seeing our Media Specialist, Nick Tsourakis, slimed!  Please come by the book fair today, in the Katheryn Hance Media Center and buy some books.  Also, you can shop on line here : Grady Book Fair Home Page.

      We need volunteers for the book fair as well.  To volunteer, please click here: http://vols.pt/8AZLqr

      If you have questions about book fair, please contact Media Specialist, Nick Tsourakis at [email protected]

      Grady families and friends, please join us for Grady's Fall Festival on Friday, October 23, from 5 pm until 7:30 pm on campus.  The festival will feature games, free crafts, hair/face painting, two amazing inflatable bouncers (an obstacle course and a regular bounce house), a bake sale, and a crazy photo booth.  Admission to the event is free, but the games are $1/ticket/game.  Wristbands for unlimited games can be purchased in advance via a form that will be sent home from school.  To learn more about how to volunteer, please contact VP of Volunteers, Chely Sierra at [email protected]. To learn more about the event, including how to become a vendor at the event or how to display your product/service at a vendor table, please contact VP of Events, Elizabeth Weekes, at [email protected].    

      This Friday, October 2 is the first Fifth Grade Doughnut Sale!  Krispy Kreme doughnuts will be sold in the front of the school next to the flag pole.  Doughnuts are $7/dozen or $1 each.  Cash, check or credit card accepted.  Proceeds benefit the fifth grade end-of-year banquet.  Please help support our Fifth Grade and stop by for doughnuts this Friday!

      Scholastic Book Fair

      September 28, 2015

      Welcome to Grady's Scholastic Book Fair.  Find great books and benefit our school's Media Center by participating.  

      The book fair runs from September 25 to October 2 at school and until October 3 online.  To see a list of books and to order online, please click here: Grady Book Fair Home Page.

      We need volunteers for the book fair as well.  To volunteer, please click here: http://vols.pt/8AZLqr

      If you have questions about book fair, please contact Media Specialist, Nick Tsourakis at [email protected]

      Earning for Learning is from September 7 – October 4, at WestShore Plaza.  Grady Elementary is qualified to win up to $3,500 this contest.  Grady is one of only 12 schools that can win in Earning for Learning, so we stand a great chance of winning. Grady Elementary was an Earning for Learning grand prize winner in 2013 and 2014.  This contest is also great for us because it is the ratio of our spending to our student population that will determine if we win.  That means that bigger schools can’t automatically win just based on total purchases. 

      This year the contest rules are different.  There are 2 ways to win - point based competition and online voting.  

      With the Points contest, prizes will be given to schools whose parents and benefactors obtain the most Points at WestShore Plaza.  $1 = 1 point, generally.  Points are earned by submitting receipts for ANY establishment in the mall (food court, movie theater, Macy’s and all stores) to the Guest Services Counter next to Macy’s.  Purchases must be made between September 7 and September 27.  Purchases made on Mondays and Tuesdays get double points.   Submit your receipts from ANY WestShore Plaza establishment (even those Starbucks purchases – every bit counts!)  to Guest Services before 6 pm September 27.  You may also donate school supplies for a specified amount of points (e.g. a box of pencils = 10 points). See a complete list of supplies, each worth 10 points, here:  Special Points.  The school supplies will support students at Metropolitan Ministries’ school.   

      With Online Voting, please use your Facebook Page to VOTE ONCE A DAY for Grady Elementary.  A link to the Facebook page is here:  https://www.facebook.com/WestShorePlaza.   Please put the voting page on your personal Facebook page and encourage your friends to vote daily for Grady.

      A full summary of the official rules is below.  Thank you for supporting Grady!  Please participate in this contest.

      Rules: 

      Point Based Competition: 

      - Total of $7,500 given away to 3 schools.  1st place is $3500, 2nd place is $2500 and 3rd place is $1500. 

      - When receipts are submitted to Guest Services, every dollar spent will equal 1 point toward your school.  

      - There will be double point opportunities that will be communicated via social media, the website and/or email.  A few things are always double points - like when you shop on Mondays and Tuesdays or the purchase of a WestShore Plaza Gift Card.   Please note that turning in receipts on a Monday or Tuesday doesn't make it double points, only purchases made on Monday's or Tuesday's are double points.

      Online Voting Competition:

      - One winner will receive $500.

      - The school with the most votes wins.

      - Voting will take place on WestShore Plaza's Facebook Page, the tab titled 'VOTE Here for Earning for Learning' will be live at 12:01 am Monday, September 7th through 11:59 pm September 27th.  You may vote daily during the competition.   https://www.facebook.com/WestShorePlaza

      - You will be able to share that you have voted on your own social media pages or share the link to encourage others to vote. 

      Non Profit Donation of School Supplies:

      There is additional way to earn points, with donating school supplies that will benefit the children of Metropolitan Ministries.   Please visit the link below to see the list of school supplies.  Each item on the list will be worth 10 points.  Donations are not eligible for Double Points.

      Here is the link to official Earning for Learning page on WestShore Plaza’s website, with rules and other information.   http://www.westshoreplaza.com/earningforlearning.

      Grandparents and Grandfriends are invited to Grady Elementary for Grandparents' Breakfast.  Two breakfasts will be held:

      Thursday, September 10, for grandparents visiting students whose last names begin with the letters A through H - and-

      Friday, September 11, for grandparents visiting students whose last names begin with the letters I through Z.

      Breakfast begins at 7:15 am and ends at 8:00 am.  Please call Ms. Taylor or Ms. Richmond with any questions at (813) 872-5325.

      Grady Fall Fundraiser

      September 2, 2015

      Help Grady Elementary by supporting our Fall Fundraiser.  Catalogs will come home in backpacks on September 2. 

      The fundraiser runs from September 2 until September 16, with delivery in mid-October.  Please do not add sales tax to any orders. Please make checks payable to American Fundraising Services

      SHOP ONLINE:

      To order online, go to www.fundsrus.net to set up a seller account.  Enter School Code 351203863 in the student registration section. Then click "Invite Family and Friends" to invite them to shop and support our fundraiser.  Visa and Mastercard are accepted. 

      Free shipping will apply for online orders delivered to the school or for order over $50 that are shipped to a home address.  Frozen items purchased online can only be shipped to the school.

      THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING GRADY ELEMENTARY!!!  

      Hello Members of the Grady Elementary Community,

      Wow, what a fabulous first week for our Grady Tigers!!  We know there has been a ton of great information already shared, and we want to keep you informed of even more opportunities on the horizon.

      First let me introduce myself, my name is Amy Zink and I’m your new PTA - VP of Communications for the 2015-2016 school year.  Through-out the year, you will see numerous emails on upcoming events from [email protected], feel free to reach out me at this location anytime.

      At this year’s open house, there was a great chance for the parents to meet and greet many of the vendors that will build the afternoon program.  The programs will begin Sept 14th, but sign-ups for the After School Enrichment Clubs are now available online.  Please go to http://gradytigers.org/ase to see a message about clubs, as well as the club selections.  Then you can sign up and pay online with a credit card using our CISCO-Certified Secure payment system.  Parents may also check their child’s folder for further instruction.

      This year’s fundraiser kick-off assembly is on Wednesday, Sept. 2nd, with packets to follow home that afternoon.  Our new little creature is destined to be a chomping success!!  Therefore, we’re all geared up to keep the momentum moving and start awarding the kid’s efforts first thing Thursday morning. 

      The Grandparents Breakfast, on Thursday, September 10th and Friday, September 11th,, will give Grandparents the opportunity to sign up and receive information about their grandchildren’s school via email.  Bring $10 to join the PTA and help support Grady Elementary.  There are no time commitments and we will be raffling off a Grady Tiger for a lucky Grandchild!  The $10 goes toward funding many wonderful projects and events at Grady, including Grandparents breakfast and teacher mini-grants.  A flyer with all the details was sent home on Monday, RSVP now!!.

      Last but definitely not least, come join us at Lee Roy Selmon's on September 14th for an all day event. Receive credit for our Tigers, by eating at Selmon's anytime through-out that day.   Check it out on the following link  http://gradytigers.org/2015/8/join-us-for-family-night-at-lee-roy-selmon-s.

      Sincerely,

      Grady PTA 

      Please join Grady Elementary PTA for a Family Night at Lee Roy Selmon's, located at 4302 W Boy Scout Blvd, Tampa, FL, on Monday, September 14.  Bring your family to Lee Roy Selmon's anytime during the day or night on Monday, September 14 (lunch counts too).  Kids get a free meal from the Little League Menu for every $9.99 and up adult entree and beverage served during the evening.  And, a percentage of the event proceeds comes back to our school.  Please be sure to mention Grady Elementary to the server to ensure that our school gets proper credit for your purchase.  We hope to see you there!
      Welcome to Open House

      We hope you have enjoyed a wonderful summer.

      We are excited to begin the 2015-16 school year and we WELCOME YOU TO GRADY.

      Please come to the Grady Open House on Friday, August 21, from 5 pm until 7:15 pm.

      At the Open House you may:

      *  Meet Your Teacher

      *  Meet Principal Kristine Dosal, Assistant Principal Michael Campbell, and the Grady Faculty and Staff

      *  Join the Grady PTA at this event and receive a FREE Grady car magnet or Tiger key chain.  PTA membership is $10 for a 2 members.

      *  Drop off your school supplies.  For a complete list of school supplies, per grade, click here:  School Supplies

      We hope to see you there.   Please call Ms. Taylor or Ms. Richmond with any questions:  (813) 872-5325. 

      The school’s address is 3910 Morrison Avenue, Tampa, FL 33629.

      Thank you to the Grady Elementary 2014-15 Patrols and to their leader, Ms. Trupp!  Thank you for all of your good deeds and hard work that have made our school a safer and happier place.  Here is a photo of the Patrols, Ms. Trupp and Ms. Dosal at the recent Patrol Picnic.  Good luck and best wishes to all of these wonderful, helpful students!!

      Dear Members of the Grady Elementary Community,

      This has been an absolutely wonderful school year! A great big thank you to all of you for supporting our fundraisers, for coming to our events, and for volunteering your time. Thanks to you we have accomplished so much!

      This year has seen record amounts of parents, grandparents and friends volunteering at our school.  We have again won the Hillsborough County PTA's award for Volunteerism and Participation in our PTA.  This award is a credit to the fine work of so many of YOU and our wonderful teachers!!  We know you, volunteers and teachers, are doing the heavy lifting of raising the standards of education in our school.  We are grateful for your work.

      Grady Elementary also won the Hillsborough County PTA's Superintendent's Award for excellence in increased membership.  The Award was presented by Hillsborough County Public Schools Superintendent Jeff Eakins.  We were delighted and surprised to win this award, but it is a testament to the commitment of teachers, parents, grandparents and friends to join together to support our school.  This year, we had 333 members, which is a 22% increase over last year and constitutes 100% membership (PTA membership is considered 100% when membership exceeds 75% of the number of students enrolled at the school.  This is because some families have more than one student at a school).

      I want to recap some of the financial aspects of this year.  In terms of fundraising, our Fall Fundraiser raised $9,700 in profit for Grady Elementary and our biggest fundraiser, Tiger Trek, raised $15,000 for our school.  We used much of the fall money to pay $7,000 toward the ELP tutoring program that occurred after school during the second, third and fourth grading periods.  We also funded $6,000 in mini-grants for teachers, and we spent $4,000 on teacher classroom supplies by providing each classroom with a $100 Lakeshore Learning gift card.   We also purchased T-shirts for Math Bowl, and Spelling Bee, and funded the registration fees and trophies for the Spelling Bee.  Moreover, we spent $2,000 on teacher appreciation week, $1,000 on the back to school lunch, and $850 on conference night expenses.  We incurred some expenses in instituting the new after school enrichment program, but those expenses were off-set by the club fees paid by parents.

      This year we completed the installation of the first phase of our fence replacement. The first phase cost $54,600. $10,750 was raised from people sponsoring fence panels and the remainder was paid for using funds from last year's surplus and some of this year's fundraising.  Next year, we begin the drive to complete the second phase of the fence replacement.  The entire project will cost $102,412, and we have $47,812 yet to raise to complete the project.

      I leave the position of President in good hands.  Kris House, currently VP of Community Outreach, will serve as President in 2015-16.  Kris has served this board for many years and is ready to lead.  Our Grady Elementary PTA Nominating Committee, which includes Kris and Patricia Cannon and Krista Harvie, have nominated, and the PTA has elected the following officers:

      President - Kris House

      VP Membership - MaryAnn Hoffman

      VP Outreach - Ellen Lyons

      VP Sponsorships - Jessica Schentrup

      VP Communications - Amy Zink

      VP Volunteers- Chely Sierra

      VP Events - Elizabeth Weekes and Annette Simeon-Lopez (not formally elected yet)

      VP Fundraising - Open

      Treasurer- Debbie Bresnahan

      Secretary - Avery Maniscalco

      We are still seeking a VP of Fundraising, as well as committee chairs and committee members.  If you are interested in serving on a board or committee (Committees include Yearbook (Chaired by Janella Enajibi), ASE Clubs (chaired by Moni Sears), Spelling Bee, Membership, Events and Volunteers), please talk to any board member on this list or email us via the website.   You may also speak with Nominating Committee members, Patricia Cannon and Krista Harvie.  Thank you to the Nominating Committee for finding such a great slate of officers to lead us next year.

      The goal of the Grady PTA is to enhance the educational experience for our children, and you all are doing a fabulous job!  Thank you for your commitment!

      Sincerely,

      Debbie Bresnahan, President, Grady Elementary PTA

      Get started on your summer reading because here are the:

      Fourth Grade Battle Books for 2015-16

      Author                                                                              Title

        Nate Ball

        Blast Off!

        Lutricia Clifton

        Freaky Fast Frankie Joe

        Neil Gaiman

        Fortunately, the Milk

        Donna Gephart

        Olivia Bean Trivia Queen

        Christopher Healy

        The Hero’s Guide to Saving Your   Kingdom

        Jennifer L. Holm

        The Fourteenth Goldfish

        Gordon Korman

        The Hypnotists

        Suzanne LaFleur

        Eight Keys

        Natalie Lloyd

        A Snicker of Magic

        W. C. Mack

        Athlete vs. Mathlete

        Patricia MacLachlan

        White Fur Flying

        Jeri Watts

        Kizzy Ann Stamps

        Sarah Weeks

        Pie

        Elissa Brent Weissman

        Nerd Camp

      Dear Future Third Grade Parents,

      As a third grader, your child will be participating in a reading adventure called the Battle of the Books. The purpose of this reading enrichment program is to encourage recreational reading, offer a variety of types of literature, increase familiarity with different authors, and share books through written and oral expression.

      There are a total of seven books that have been chosen from the Sunshine State Young Readers Awards. On the back of this notice is next year's list so that students can begin reading this summer. These books are available at public libraries and book stores. They will also be available in the classroom and media center next year.

      As part of the Battle of the Books, students will compete with their homeroom in May, 2016. The top four students from each homeroom will "battle" with the knowledge of books. This opportunity is great practice for the "official" fourth grade battle, but does not predetermine future participants.

      We are looking forward to teaching your children next year! Have a wonderful summer and happy reading!

      Sincerely,

      Third Grade Teachers

      THIRD GRADE BATTLE BOOKS LIST

      1. The Lemonade War, by Jacqueline Davis

      2. Shredderman: Attack of the Tagger, by Wendelin Van Draanen

      3. Alvin Ho: Allergic to Girls, School, and Other Scary Things, by Lenore Look

      4. The Earth Dragon Awakes, by Laurence Yep

      5. Clementine, by Marla Frazee

      6. Andy Russell, Not Wanted by the Police, by David A. Adler

      7. The Fabled Fourth Graders of Aesop Elementary School, by Candace Fleming

      Tiger Talk Update:

      May 22, 2015

      This has been a great week at Grady.  The Chess Team dominated in the Mitchell Gran Prix.  To see standings and pictures of kids with their trophies click here: Chess Tournament Winners.

      The Book Fair was a huge success thanks to all of the families who participated and all of you who volunteered.  Thank you for your support.  Thus far, the sales at the book fair are $6,700.00, but they could go higher and break our record of $7,100, if parents purchase books through the online book fair that runs through May 26.  Please just follow this link Online Book Fair Until May 26 and click in the middle of the page that says “Online Book Fair.”  All orders ship free to the school and there is an expanded selection of books, including books for all ages (child to adult).   

      Also, we need more “treasures” for the Treasure Chest in the Kathryn Hance Media Center.  If you have unused party favors, small toys such as Happy Meal toys, or other cool treats that would be a pleasure for a student to receive, please bring them to Mr. Tsourakis in the Kathryn Hance Media Center or Ms. Taylor in the front office.  This is a great way to give unused party favors or Happy Meal toys a second life.

      Next week, when we return is Spirit Week.  Here is a list of the themes for each day: Spirit Week Daily Themes.

      There will be one last End-of-the-Year Family Night at Yogurtology, located at 1202 S. Church Ave., on Wednesday, June 3, from 2 pm to 8 pm.   Please come out for some yogurt and know that a portion of the proceeds of your purchase will benefit our school.  Please mention Grady Elementary at the counter to ensure that our school gets credit for your purchase.   

      We are concluding our Spring After School Enrichment Program Clubs (Robotics, Chess, Dance, Basketball and Spanish Club).  All clubs have concluded for the year, except for Spanish Club.  We hope you liked the clubs; we are looking for feedback on our ASE Club Program and any advice you may have to help us make the program even more successful in the future.  You can direct comments to Ellen Lyons at [email protected], and to ASE Club Coordinator, Moni Sears at [email protected]. We will be bringing back the program in the fall, with expanded club offerings.

      The Grady Elementary Chess Club did very well at its first chess tournament, the Mitchell Gran Prix.  Kindergarten and First Grade won Third Place, Second and Third Grade won Fourth Place, and Fourth and Fifth Grade won Second Place!  Congratulations to the students.  Below you can see some happy students with their trophies.

      Tuesday, May 26, to Friday, May 29, is Spirit Week at Grady Elementary.  Here are the themes for each day:

      Tuesday:     Sports Day

      Wednesday: Crazy Hair Day

      Thursday:    Mix & Match Day

      Friday:       Super Hero Day

      Enjoy this fun-filled week at Grady!

      Tuesday, May 26, to Friday, May 29, is Spirit Week at Grady Elementary.  Here are the themes for each day:

      Tuesday:     Sports Day

      Wednesday: Crazy Hair Day

      Thursday:    Mix & Match Day

      Friday:       Super Hero Day

      Enjoy this fun-filled week at Grady!

      There will be one last End-of-the-Year Family Night at Yogurtology, located at 1202 S. Church Ave., on Wednesday, June 3, from 2 pm to 8 pm.   Please come out for some yogurt and know that a portion of the proceeds of your purchase will benefit our school.  Please mention Grady Elementary at the counter to ensure that our school gets credit for your purchase. 

      Grady Elementary has won the Hillsborough County PTA’s Superintendent’s Award for Excellence in Increased Membership.  The Award was presented by Hillsborough County Public Schools Superintendent Jeff Eakins.  The award was accepted by Grady Principal Kristine Dosal and PTA President, Debbie Bresnahan.  Our school won the award because we had the highest increase in PTA membership of all schools in Hillsborough County.  Prior to presenting the award to Grady, Superintendent Eakins spoke about the importance of parental involvement in schools and how parental and teacher cooperation is critical to the success of a school.  We are delighted and grateful to be presented with this wonderful honor.  At the same award ceremony, Grady also won awards for Volunteerism and a Golden Participation Award for parental involvement.   Grady was represented at the award ceremony by Mrs. Dosal (2014 Principal of the Year), Sandra Richmond (nominated for Outstanding Non-Instructional Person), Mr. Florio (2014-15 Grady Teacher of the Year and nominated for Hillsborough County PTA Teacher of the Year),  PTA President Debbie Bresnahan, PTA President-Elect Kris House, VP of Event Jennifer Narvaes, VP of Membership MaryAnn Hoffman-Dougill, ASE Club Coordinator Moni Sears, and  VP of Communications Ellen Lyons

      Receiving the award: 

      award

      Here's a picture of the group with the Superintendent's Award:

      And a picture of the group before the awards ceremony began: 

      The Spring Musical is May 13!  Here are the times for the many events:

      Morning:

      7:30 am to 8:30 am  – buy raffle tickets and bid on silent auction items in front of the school, while enjoying free coffee and pastries.  You need not be present to win raffle and silent auction items.

      8 am to 8:30 am – Chair set up in the Pavilion.  We still need volunteers for this, and it goes quickly with more people.  To volunteer, please click here: Volunteer for Set Up or Breakdown of Chairs.

      Afternoon and Evening:

      3:30 pm to 7:30 pm,  Book Fair in the Kathryn Hance Media Center (to volunteer for the Book Fair, click here: Volunteer for Book Fair

      4 pm to 7:30 pm, Student Art Presentation in the Cafeteria

      4:30 Food Trucks start serving and vendor tables are set up

      5:00 pm Silent Auction and Raffle items available under the Pavilion.  Raffle tickets are 7 for $5.  We take cash, check and credit cards for raffle tickets and silent auction items.   To see prizes, click here: Raffle and Silent Auction Items.

      5:15 Students in the Chorus to report to Room 26, Actors report to Room 13, Dancers report to your grade level classrooms.

      5:30 pm, Introductory remarks, PTA General Meeting

      6:00 Spring Musical, How to Be A Pirate in Seven Easy Songs, begins. All other events, except food truck sales, stop during the Spring Musical Performance (from 5:45 pm to 7:00 pm)

      7:00 Spring Musical ends, Silent Auction and Raffle Winners Announced.  Winners will be notified and their names/prizes will be posted on our website.

      7:00 Spring Musical chair breakdown occurs.  To volunteer for this please click here:  Volunteer for Set Up or Breakdown of Chairs, or simply stay and help.  It takes less than 30 minutes if enough people help.  Also, we need volunteers with drills (preferably cordless drills) to help break down the stage backdrop after the show.  If you have a drill and can help out, please bring your drill and stay after the show to help!

      7:00 to 7:30 Book Fair and Art Presentation are re-opened after end of Spring Musical.

      Please be quiet during the Principal’s remarks, the PTA General Meeting and especially during the Spring Musical performance.  Please remember that all parents should be able to hear their children perform.  If you plan to talk during the performance, please proceed to the food truck area for your conversation.   Grady students and teachers have worked hard to put on a wonderful show for you!

      We look forward to seeing you tomorrow for our many Spring Musical events.  If you have any questions, please email VP of Events, Jennifer Narvaes, at [email protected],  VP of Volunteers, Chely Sierra, at [email protected], VP of Communications, Ellen Lyons, at [email protected]

      Grady Teachers and Staff say, "Thank you" for the delicious sweets! Click for pictures of the sweets provided by Grady Families.

      Friday is Dessert Day

      May 7, 2015

      This has been a tremendous Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week.  Tomorrow is our final day and the theme is desserts.  Please bring in, or send your students to school with special dessert treats (brownies, cookies, cake etc.) that are either homemade or store-bought, and preferably individually wrapped (except cake).  Please plan to drop off the goodies at the front office on Friday, May 8th before 8:00 a.m

      Thanks again for such a fun and wonderful week for our teachers.  Teachers that we have talked to feel very appreciated!

      Thank you Grady Families for your participation in the gift card give-away on Wednesday.  77 gift cards were donated by families from our school and another 80+ gift cards were funded by money made at the Barnes & Noble Family Night of Reading.  A picture of the gift cards donated by families and some of the Barnes & Noble gift cards is attached.   Gift card and gift item donations were made by the following families: Patterson, Azevedo, Panos, Andres, Mueller, Matos, Jackson, Sierra, Fitzgerald, Ledford, Dougill, Hammond, Schentrup, Lyons, Boyd, Stemac, Carroll, Sahoo, Andratte and Del Castillo.  Some families did not leave their names on the gift cards, and we must simply thank them generally.  The teachers loved the gift card give-away and we’ve received several thank you emails from the teachers.  The teachers appreciate our strong family supporters and strong PTA, both of which greatly help our school.

      Thank you for a fantastic flower day!  So far, Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week has been a wonderful success.  We started with Monday Breakfast (see a picture of the breakfast display here: Picture), today was flower day and tomorrow is Hats Off To Teachers and Staff.  Please have students wear hats to school and consider giving teachers and staff gifts to show appreciation.  If you don’t know what kind of gift card or gift your child’s teacher would like, please review teacher profiles here:  Teachers; Administration here: Administration; and Specialists here: Specialists.

      In addition to the individual teacher gifts given by students directly to their teachers, there will also be a drawing on the Morning Show, for prizes of gift cards and gift items.  Thank you to everyone who has donated gift cards and gift items thus far.  To donate gift cards and gift items for the Wednesday give-away, please drop them in the front office before 8 am on Wednesday.  Please attach a note with your or your child’s name if you’d like it announced on the Morning Show. 

      To see more information about Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week, please click here:  Teacher and Staff Appreciation.  If you have any questions about Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week, please email Avery Maniscalco at [email protected].

      Coming up is Grady’s Spring Musical.  Grady Elementary PTA has lined up some spectacular raffle baskets and silent auction items for the Spring Musical.  To see the items, click here: Baskets and Silent Auction Items

      You can join in the raffle and silent auction even if you don’t plan to attend the Spring Musical.   You can buy raffle tickets (1 for $1 or 7 tickets for $5) on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday (May 11-13) in front of school. 

      On Wednesday, May 13, we will not only sell raffle tickets, but we will display the baskets that are the raffle prizes (together with boxes for you deposit raffle tickets in), and we will display the silent auction items for viewing and bidding.  We will serve free coffee and pastries, too.  It should be a lovely morning for a raffle and silent auction get-together.  

      The winning raffle tickets will be drawn after the Spring Musical, but you need not be present to win, but please place contact information on the back of your raffle ticket!  We will contact all winners of raffled and silent auction items, so feel free to buy tickets even if you are not planning to attend the Spring Musical.

      Tuesday, May 5, is Flower Day.  Please have students bring each of their teachers, and the Grady staff who help our students, a flower to say “thank you for helping us bloom.”  The flowers can be hand-made, store bought or picked from your garden (vases are unnecessary as most teachers and staff already have them).   Please help shower our teachers and staff in flowers so we can show them just how much they mean to us. 

      It is not too late to drop a gift card off in the front office for the all-day give-away of gift cards and gift items on Wednesday.  Please consider donating a gift card or other gift item of any amount to be given away on Wednesday.  To have your child’s name announced when the item is given away, please include a note on the item.  Please deliver gift cards and items to the front office today, tomorrow and Wednesday morning.  Think of the hard work that teachers do in planning lessons, grading papers, communicating with parents and educating and inspiring our children, and it’s easy to realize just how much they deserve to be appreciated.  This is our one-week opportunity to show teachers and staff that we acknowledge and appreciate their effort and commitment, so let’s make it count. 

      Also, please consider donating a 1.5 hour block or more of time to the Grady Spring Book Fair.  Book Fair sales take place from May 13 to May 20, and there are volunteer spots from May 12 (set up) until May 20.  We need parents to help children select books, organize books and work the cash register.  A complete schedule of volunteer opportunities is available by clicking here:  Book Fair Volunteers.  You can sign up for your spot just by clicking on it.  It is a simple, easy, 1-step way to volunteer.  For any Book Fair questions, please contact Mr. Tsourakis at [email protected].

      The Grady Elementary PTA Nominating Committee is seeking volunteers for board and committee positions for the 2015-2016 school year.  Specifically sought is a Fundraising person to manage the Fall Fundraiser and Tiger Trek and an Events person to plan and execute events at the school.   We also need a Social Chair to plan evenings out and social events for our general membership.  We need a Dad’s Club Chair to organize events specifically for fathers of Grady students.  If you have an interest in one of these roles, or want to talk about customizing a role for yourself based on your talents, please reply by email or write to the Nominating Committee, care of Kris House, at[email protected].

      The Grady Elementary Spring Musical featuring the play, How to Be a Pirate: In Seven Easy Songs, is coming up on May 13, from 5 pm to 7:30 pm.  In addition to the fantastic student performances, Grady PTA has lined up food trucks, vendors, and a number of silent auction and raffle items, the list of which can be found here:  Spring Musical.  

      Grady Elementary congratulates new Chief of Police for the City of Tampa, Eric Ward.   Chief Ward is the husband of first grade teacher, Mrs. Ward.  Chief Ward came by the school on Friday and was recognized with a hand-painted banner congratulating him on his achievement.  To see a pictures of Chief Ward, Mrs. Ward and her class, as well as a picture of Mrs. Dosal, Mr. Campbell and Chief Ward, with the banner, please click here:   TPD Chief Ward Visits Grady Elementary.

      City of Tampa Chief of Police, Eric Ward, visited Grady Elementary on Friday, May 1, 2015.  Chief Ward has been visiting Grady Elementary for many years, but on Friday, he visited for the first time as Chief.  Mrs. Dosal, Mr. Campbell, and Grady students in Mrs. Ward's first grade class gave him a very warm welcome. Congratulations to Chief Ward and to his wife, Alberta Ward, who was Grady Teacher of the Year in 2013.  To read an article and see a video about Chief Ward, please click here:  Article and Video.

      Monday is the first day of Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week.  It is a week during which we express our gratitude to the teachers and staff who help our children bloom.  Thanks to your donations to the Grady PTA, our children's teachers and staff will enjoy coffee, tea and treats tomorrow morning.  This is one of the many nice things you do for our school through your membership in the PTA.  

      It’s not too late to bring gift cards, or other wonderful items into the office for the all-day Teacher and Staff Give-Away on Wednesday.  If you want your child’s name announced as the item is given away, please put your child’s name on a note attached to the gift card or item.  Please bring gift cards and items to the front office Monday, Tuesday or on Wednesday morning at the latest.  Thank you for these great gifts that the teachers and staff will love.

      For more information about Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week, click here:  http://gradytigers.org/2015/4/teacher-appreciation-week-may

      The Spring Book Fair is coming soon to Grady Elementary and Volunteers are needed to assist from the afternoon of May 12 (set up) all the way to the end of the day on May 20.  There will be a special night time event during the Spring Musical on May 13, and we will need many volunteers for that evening.  To volunteer for a block of time, please click here to see the available times and dates:  http://gradytigers.org/2015-bookfair-volunteers. The volunteer time blocks are set up in mostly 1.5-hour increments, but if you can only volunteer for a portion of the selected period, please note it in the comments.  If you have any questions about the Book Fair, please email Mr. Tsourakis at [email protected]

      Parents of Fifth Graders, Coleman PTSA has provided us with 3 helpful documents you may want to read.  Please click here to see more information: http://gradytigers.org/2015/4/coleman-information-for-fifth-grade-parents.

       

      Dear Members of the Grady Elementary Community,

      Construction of the new Grady Elementary perimeter fence has started!   Thus far, workers have replaced much of the fence on Church Avenue.  The new fence looks fantastic and is made of steel, so it is not only more beautiful, but also more secure than our prior fence.  We are so excited to finally see the results of the hard work of so many parents, teachers, staff, volunteers and administrators.  When this phase of fence construction is complete, both the north end around the front of the school and the east end along Church Avenue will have a beautiful, strong black painted steel fence. 

      Now is a great time to sponsor a fence panel.  If you sponsor a panel now, your dedication plaque – a 4" X 8" plaque with an inscription of up to three lines, 20 characters per line – will be permanently placed on a brand-new fence panel on the north or east side of the school.  You’ll be able to walk by your dedication plaque and enjoy your inscription, and the inscriptions of other Grady families, for years to come.  The tax-deductible money you spend, $250 per panel dedication, will help fund the completion of the remainder of the fence.   To sponsor a fence panel online using any credit card, please click here: Sponsor A Fence Panel, for our Cisco-certified secure online portal.  To print the Sponsor a Fence Panel form and return it to the school with a check for $250 per panel, please click here: Paper Sponsor A Panel Form.  To see pictures of the fence construction, please click here: Fence Construction Photo Gallery.  Please order your fence panel today so that we can include your inscription in our upcoming plaque order.

      Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week is taking place from May 4-8.  This year, we are saying to our teachers and staff, “Thank You For Helping Us Bloom.”  We will have a different event each day and we need your help to make it special!  For more information, and a list of events, please click here: Teacher Appreciation Week.  Consider “appreciating” your child’s teacher by organizing parents to sponsor a fence panel in the teacher’s name.

      Grady’s Chess Team competed in the Mitchell Gran Prix this weekend.  The tournament is a two-part event, but Grady has ended the first stage in an excellent position.  To see the Chess Club Team members, and see more information about the event standings, please click here: Chess Team at Gran Prix.  The second stage of the chess tournament takes place on May 17, and any Grady student may join our Chess Team to help our school.  Students who wish to wear a Grady Chess Team Shirt can order one by clicking here:  Chess Team Shirt Order Form.

      We hope you are excited about the beautiful new fence that will enhance the security and attractiveness of our school.  Please consider sponsoring a panel today.

      Sincerely,

      Grady Elementary PTA  

      Grady Chess Club T-shirts, in royal blue with orange and white print are available for purchase.  These shirts will help our club show a uniform presence at chess tournaments.  For more information, please click on the Grady Chess Club Shirt Order Form link under Related Files, below. 

      Work is beginning on the new Grady Perimeter Fence.  The hedges have been cut back and concrete to hold the fence posts is being poured.  We hope to have a completed fence in the next few weeks!  For any questions about the new Grady Perimeter Fence, please contact VP of Outreach, Kris House, at [email protected].

      To purchase a fence panel that comes with a dedication plaque to honor your family or student, please use our secure online system and click here: Purchase a Panel.  Our CISCO-certified secure payment portal accepts all credit cards.

      To see a photo gallery of the fence construction thus far, please click here: Fence Construction Pictures

       

      ty

      Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week will take place from May 4-8 at Grady Elementary.  Through this week of events, we want to say to our teachers and staff, THANK YOU for helping our children bloom!

      At Grady we have the most wonderful teachers, front office, custodial and cafeteria teams. To show our appreciation we have several events planned to honor our teachers and staff and we would like you and your child's help to make it unforgettable:

      Monday, May 4 -- You are TEAriffic! Teachers and staff will be invited to enjoy some coffee, tea and treats to kick off the celebration of all they do.  Coffee, tea and treats provided courtesy of Publix, will be served by the PTA in the office.  (Parents and students don't need to do anything on this day).

      Tuesday, May 5 -- Flower Day. We will shower them with flowers. Students can show their gratefulness with flowers that are made with paper, home grown or from the store. Give them directly to the teachers and staff on Tuesday, May 5th.

      Wednesday, May 6 -- Hats off to our teachers and staff. Show how much you appreciate your teacher by wearing a hat to school. On the morning show, we will be having a drawing for prizes of restaurant gift certificates, massages, and other donated prizes. Students can pamper their teachers and staff with donated prizes. If you would like to make a donation, please contact Avery Maniscalco at [email protected]. Please plan to drop your donation off at the front office before 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 6th. Your name will be announced as a donor during the raffle.

      Thursday, May 7 -- Thank You Day.  Grady PTA will serve teachers and staff a catered lunch.  We would also like to have your child express. their gratitude with thank you notes. Tell them how much they have helped you grow. Give them directly to the teachers and staff on Thursday, May 7th.

      Friday, May 8 -- Thankful for a sweet teachers and staff like you.  Students can bring in special treats that you have made or bought from the store to share with the teachers and staff. If possible, please individually wrap your goodies. Please plan to drop off the goodies at the front office on Friday, May 8th before 8:00 a.m.

      Thank you for your participation in Teacher Appreciation Week.  For any questions, please email Avery Maniscalco at [email protected]

       

      Grady Elementary Chess Team competed in the Mitchell Gran Prix at Mitchell Elementary on Sunday, April 19.  It is a two-part competition, but for the  first half of the Gran Prix, Team Grady's current standings are   K-1, 3rd place;  Grades 2-3, 4th place; Grades 4-5, 2nd place! Students can still sign up for the second half of the Gran Prix, which takes place on May 17, to help our team. Students do not have to be in the Grady Chess Club to be part of the team, all Grady students are welcome to play!

      Click on Related Files below for a team picture and a picture of the competition hall.

      Congratulations to the Grady Chess Team members who competed on Sunday:

      Sophia Wolfson

      Kian Yaghoubinejal

      Reese McCambridge

      Amina DeVoe

      Raymond Lopez

      Nicholas DeVoe

      Brady Stemac

      Vincent Nelson

      Alen Rodriguez

      Abigail Ferrer

      Felicita Ruiz

      Kimya Yaghoubinejal

      Gus Carmon

      Brent Porter

      Jayden Rumel

      Landon Roberts

      Jose Rodriguez

      Jaydon Dickerson

      Connor Vance

      Bryce Vance

      There will be NO SPANISH CLUB on either Tuesday April 21 OR Thursday April 23 due to a family emergency experienced by the Spanish Club teacher.   Our ASE Club Coordinator, Moni Sears at [email protected], will contact Spanish Club members’ parents with additional information about Spanish Club.  Spanish Club is expected to resume on Tuesday, April 28.    We are very sorry for this inconvenience.

      Due to popular demand, we have added a second day of Spanish Club. Spanish Club will occur on its original date, Thursday, April 16 and every Thursday thereafter. A second Spanish Club is being added and it will run on Tuesdays from April 21 until May 26. We do have five additional spots in the Tuesday Spanish Club, so if your child is interested in joining Spanish Club on Tuesdays, please send in the application and a check for $72 to join the Tuesday Spanish Club program. We expect this second Spanish Club to fill up very quickly, so please do not delay in returning your application to school.
      Grady Elementary's Annual Spring Musical is set for May 13. Click Read More to learn more about this event and about the amazing raffle and silent auction prizes.

      Grady Elementary PTA is offering a limited edition Grady Tiger 3” x 2” Key Chain.  One of these Tiger Key Chains is FREE when 2 people from your family join Grady Elementary PTA for the 2015-2016 school year

      After joining next year’s PTA, members can purchase additional Key Chains for $6 each.  

      Please click the Grady Key Chain Order Form File below to print the order form.  Fill in the order form and submit it to school in your child's homework folder.  Key chains will be sent home in backpacks. 

      Please help support your children and our school by joining the Grady Elementary PTA for the 2015- 2016 school year.  Thank you for your membership and all that you do for our school. 

      Spanish Club for Kindergarten to Third Graders starts April 16 and continues each Thursday thereafter until May 21.  Spanish Club will take place from 2:30 pm until 3:30 pm on campus.  Spanish Club will be taught by Alicia Campos.  Alicia was born in Spain and has a Master’s degree in Education from Harvard University.  She has been teaching art and Spanish for many years.  Some of you will know her as the artist who painted the painting of Ms. Adams’ class for the Winter Concert silent auction.  Her class will not only teach the Spanish language but also Spanish art, culture and music.  To sign up for Spanish Club, please print the form linked below, and send it to school with the payment of $72.  Please make checks payable to Grady Elementary PTA. 

      When filling out club sign-up forms, Please be very clear about how your child will be dismissed from the club at 3:30 pm, because the line checked for the type of dismissal will be the only way we will dismiss your child from a club.  If you want to make any change to how your child goes home or is dismissed once a club has started, you must notify both the school and our ASE Club Coordinator, Moni Sears at [email protected] in order to change the form of dismissal.  

      Thank you, parents, for sending your children to school in blue today.  Please click here to view the incredible picture of the students, teachers, staff and administrators of Grady Elementary joining hands in support of our students, friends and neighbors with autism or on the autism spectrum:  Grady Lights It Up Blue!  Thank you also for all the colored hands your children have sent in!  It is wonderful to be part of such an inclusive and supportive school!

      For more information about Grady Lights It Up Blue, including a link to Team Grady’s Autism Speaks Walk page, please click here: http://gradytigers.org/2015/4/grady-lights-it-up-blue.

      Please order yearbooks for your children before the deadline THIS SUNDAY, April 5, 2015Yearbooks can only be ordered online at ybpay.lifetouch.com using Yearbook ID Code: 11885215.  If you want your child to have a yearbook for the signing party, please order your yearbook before the final deadline.   For questions about yearbooks, please email Yearbook Coordinator, Janella Enajibi at [email protected].  The Grady Yearbook is one of the best ways for your child to remember his or her time in elementary school and has individual pictures, class pictures, funny pictures and pictures from school events.  If you haven’t already, please order yearbooks today!  

      Thank you to all the people who came by to purchase Happy Spring Egg Grams on Monday and Tuesday.  All the proceeds, more than $230.00 currently, go to the fifth grade for their banquet and year-end festivities. 

      Please remember to have Grady students wear blue this Thursday to support Light it Up Blue for Autism Awareness.  Grady will be lighting it up blue in a very special way!

      Light It Up Blue April 2

      April 1, 2015

      Light it Up Blue is a unique global initiative to raise awareness about autism.  In support of Light it Up Blue, Grady students will be participating in a special event to support autism awareness.  Please have your students wear blue to school on Thursday, April 2 to show their support! 

      Dear Members of the Grady Elementary Community,

      We have great news about our program to replace the perimeter fence.  The School District of Hillsborough County has approved our fence design and vendor and we may proceed with construction of the fence!  We are looking forward to seeing the north and east perimeter fences replaced with a black aluminum fence.  There’s still time to get a plaque for your family or child on one of the fence panels, so if you would like to see your family’s name or child’s name on the new Grady Fence, please click here to use our secure website to purchase a panel for a $250 donation (this secure site takes all major credit cards) Secure Online Fence Order and Payment Form.  If you prefer to pay by check, please print this form Printable Fence Panel Form, fill it out and send it in with a check. 

      Parents, we have more club news for you.  First, we are pleased to offer Basketball, for Fourth and Fifth Graders, a new after school enrichment Program, on Mondays beginning the week of March 30, 2015 and ending the week of May 18, 2015.  The program will take place after school, from 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm.  In this program, students will learn the basics of basketball as well as advanced skills in a fun and friendly environment.  The program lasts 8 weeks and costs $65 per child.  If you are interested in this program, please print the Basketball Registration Form  linked to this email and return it to the school with payment.  Our after school enrichment clubs have been wildly popular, so please don’t delay – sign up today.  If you have any questions about any after school enrichment clubs, please email our ASE Club Coordinator at [email protected].

      Fifth Grade Parents, you are cordially invited to Coleman Middle School for a special, parent-only presentation on Friday, April 10, 2015 from noon to 1 pm.  This meeting is a great opportunity to meet the Coleman Administration, the PTSA, and the Dad’s Club.   It is an open forum to ask questions.  The parent meeting will be held in the Orchestra Room on campus.   You can park on the Mabry side of the school (Estrella Street) and enter the Orchestra Room without having to enter through the school front office.  If you have questions about this event, please contact Coleman at (813) 872-5335 or look at the link about this event on our website: Visit Coleman April 10.

      Please help Grady Elementary support Autism Awareness.  Let’s Join Hands to Raise Awareness.  It is simple to support Team Grady in this effort.  Please just click here, Decorate This Hand!, print the picture of the hand,  and decorate it as you or your child see fit.  Please return your decorated hand(s) to Grady Elementary with  $1.00 for each hand.  All hands will be displayed in the cafeteria.  You can send in as many hands as you like, and the class with the highest number of hands will win a pizza party!  

      All money raised will support Team Grady as they participate in the Autism Speaks Walk on April 11. If you wish to make a direct contribution to Grady's Autism Speaks Walking Team, please click here: Autism Speaks - Team Grady.  Thanks, Team Grady, for working hard to increase autism awareness.  To see a picture of our school on World Autism Awareness Day in 2014, please click here: School Picture on Autism Awareness Day.

      The end of the school year is just 10 weeks away.   Time is running out to order a yearbook for your child.   The final deadline to purchase the Grady Elementary Yearbook is Sunday, April 5, 2015.  Yearbooks can only be ordered online at ybpay.lifetouch.com using Yearbook ID Code: 11885215.  If you want your child to have a yearbook for the signing party, please order your yearbook before the final deadline.  For questions about yearbooks, please email Yearbook Coordinator, Janella Enajibi at [email protected].

      Don’t forget to order Happy Spring Eggs this coming Monday and Tuesday!   Make your child, grandchild or your child's class and teacher eggstra happy with a toy-filled Happy Spring Egg Gram!  Grady Elementary PTA is selling Happy Spring Egg Grams in front of the school from 7:30 am to 8:00 am on Monday, March 30 and Tuesday, March 31.  The Happy Spring Egg Grams are $1 each or $10 per dozen.  Simply print the order form here: Happy Spring Egg Grams.  Please complete the order form and bring it with you to order your Happy Spring Egg Grams in person on March 30 and 31.  Happy Spring Egg Grams will be delivered to classrooms on Thursday, April 2. 

      Sincerely,

      Grady Elementary PTA

      We are pleased to offer Basketball, for Fourth and Fifth Graders, a new After School Enrichment Program on Mondays beginning the week of March 30, 2015 and ending the week of May 18, 2015, from 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm.  In this program, students will learn the basics of basketball as well as advanced skills in a fun and friendly environment.  The program lasts 8 weeks and costs $65 per child.  If you are interested in this program, please print the flyer attached to this page and return it to the school with payment.  Our After School Enrichment clubs have been wildly popular, so please don’t delay and sign up today.

      Autism Awareness Month 2014

      Please help Grady Elementary increase autism awareness and support The Grady Autism Speaks Walking Team.  Please print the attached PDF of a hand, color it in, and return it to Grady Elementary with  $1.00.  All hands will be displayed in the cafeteria.  You can send in as many hands as you like, and the class with the highest number of hands will win a pizza party!   All money will support Team Grady as they participate in the Autism Speaks Walk on April 11.

      If you wish to make a direct contribution to Grady's Autism Speaks Walking Team, please click here: https://www.kintera.org/faf/search/searchTeamPart.asp?ievent=1122683&lis=1&kntae1122683=5D8F4B1037DE4DEB9BF3001BF7B711AB&supId=420635859&team=6315188

      Thanks, Team Grady, for working hard to increase autism awareness.

      The picture above is from last year's World Autism Awareness Day.  Pictured are all students at Grady Elementary, wearing blue to support autism awareness.   

      Make your child, grandchild or your child's class eggstra happy with a toy-filled Happy Spring Egg Gram!  Grady Elementary PTA is selling Happy Spring Egg Grams in front of the school from 7:30 am to 8:00 am on Monday, March 30 and Tuesday, March 31.  The Happy Spring Egg Grams are $1 each or $10 per dozen.  Please complete the form linked below and bring it with you to order your Happy Spring Egg Grams in person on March 30 and 31.  Happy Spring Egg Grams will be delivered to classrooms on Thursday, April 2.

      Thank you for the strong interest in After School Enrichment Clubs.  In just 3 days, 24 students have signed up for Chess Club, 12 students have signed up for Dance Club and Robotics Club is fully booked.  There are 16 spots left in Chess Club and 8 spots left in Dance Club.  

      Mr. Jack Fahle, Supervisor of Elementary Math for the school district, gave a fantastic presentation on Florida’s Math Standards for Elementary Students on Monday night.  Thanks to all of you who came out.  Nearly every seat was filled and the program itself was invaluable.  Mr. Fahle explained each of the 8 new math practice standards (to see them, click here: http://gradytigers.org/standards-for-mathematical-practice) and gave us problems to solve so that we could understand why the new math standards teach critical thinking.  Mr. Fahle also gave us a very helpful card with the Math Standards explained in a way that elementary students can understand (to see this, click here: http://gradytigers.org/math-standards).  The Student Friendly version is perfect for posting on your refrigerator or elsewhere where your child can see it often.  Mr. Fahle also gave us copies of the grade-specific math standards for grades K to 5 (to see these, click here: http://gradytigers.org/math-guides-for-parents).  Finally, Mr. Fahle gave us a list of resources, including a link to the online component of the GOMath textbook (to see this, click here: http://gradytigers.org/math-parent-resources).  Thanks to Grady for arranging this great presentation.  

      On Thursday, March 19, Smoothie King will have smoothies for sale in front of the school from 7:30 am to 8 am.  12 ounce smoothies will be $3.00 each (cash/check) and come in 3 flavors:  Strawberry Extreme, Mango-Fest and Angel Food (a blend of strawberries and bananas).  Please help support the Fifth Grade by buying a smoothie for yourself or your child.

      It will soon be time for the PTA to consider board and committee positions for the next academic year.  To that end, the board is seeking members of a nominating committee who will look at all school participants and consider them for board and committee chair positions for next year.  Having a nominating committee ensures that people outside the board of the PTA are involved in the board selection process and encourages diversity and inclusiveness, two of our core values.  The 2015 Nominating Committee’s job will be to find candidates for PTA board and committee positions by the time of the general election on May 13, 2015.  For questions about the nominating committee or to volunteer for it, please email [email protected]

      On Thursday, March 19, in lieu of doughnut sales, Smoothie King will have smoothies for sale in front of the school from 7:30 am to 8 am.  12 ounce smoothies will be $3.00 each and come in 3 flavors:  Strawberry Extreme, Mango-Fest and Angel Food (a blend of strawberries and bananas).  Please help support the Fifth Grade by buying a smoothie for yourself or your child. 

      The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are hosting a FREE Heads Up Football “Moms Football Safety Clinic” at One Buccaneer Place on Tuesday, March 31st (6pm-8pm). This will be an opportunity for local moms who have children interested in or currently playing youth football to learn more about concussion awareness, hydration, nutrition, and Heads Up Football tackling skills. The event will also feature a Moms Panel lead by Mrs. Chris Golic, wife of Mike Golic – former NFL player and host of ESPN’s Mike and Mike Show. (See flyer below for more details). 
       
      Event website to RSVP –  www.buccaneers.com/momsc.  Please RSVP by March 20. 
      Grady Elementary PTA is offering After School Enrichment Clubs for the 9 week period beginning the week of March 23 and ending the week of May 18. Each club will meet once a week on campus from 2:30 pm until 3:30 pm. The clubs offered are: Robotics Club for 3rd and 4th Graders, Chess Club for K to 4th Graders, and Dance Club for K to 5th Graders.

      Grady Elementary is partnering with American Heart Association to bring you Jump Rope For Heart on February 27, 2015.  This event, which features exercise, information, and fun, will take place on campus.  Students will learn about how to make choices that lead to a healthy lifestyle and get to exercise by jumping rope.  The school will also benefit from this event because we will receive additional physical education equipment due to our participation.

      You and your child can help promote heart health and Jump Rope For Heart by registering online to participate in the event. 

      Once you register online you can tell your friends about your participation via social media and email.   If you wish, you can donate to the cause and collect prizes.  If you raise $5 for heart health, please send in a coupon from the JRFH materials (sent home in backpacks) to Coach Murrell, and your child will receive a Splatter Duck and a lanyard.  There are various prizes for additional donations, and if your child raises $50 or more, your child will receive a JRFH t-shirt.  Please return the JRFH materials or complete the online donations by February 27. If you have any questions about this great event, please email Coach Michelle Murrell at [email protected].

      We will need volunteers to cheer the kids on, to turn ropes and provide water for Jump Rope For Heart!  Please consider volunteering.  Your time commitment can be as little as 55 minutes.  To see the full event schedule, the class times, and to volunteer for a specific duty and time, please click here: http://gradytigers.org/jump-rope-for-heart#.VNwjG_UNwA0.gmail.  Thanks to all of you who volunteer.  You make our school's events run very smoothly.

      Time To Send In Box Tops!

      February 12, 2015

      Grady Elementary is having a Winter Box Tops Competition that ends on February 18, 2015.  Please start sending in clipped Box Tops in clear Ziploc-style bags with a maximum of 50 per bag.  In each bag, please include a slip of paper with your child’s name, grade level, teacher’s name, and the number of box tops.  Please send bags of box tops to school in homework folders or bring them to the front office.  Each clipped box top is worth 10 cents to our school.  The classroom that collects the most box tops wins a popsicle party.  

      District Science Fair, 2015

      February 12, 2015

      The Hillsborough County District Science Fair was held on February 4 and 5, 2015.  Grady students Erin Eslick, Josh Sears, Olivia Matos, Hudson Beachy, and Chase Fenske each received an Award of Merit at the District Science Fair.  Grady Student Faith House received an Outstanding Award and won Third Place in the District Science Fair.  Congratulations to all of these students and their families for these terrific honors.   Pictured are Ms. Dosal, Ms. Campbell and Faith House wearing her Third Place medal. 

      During the Winter Concert, many people were amazed by detailed painting of Ms. Adams' class.  The painting of each student and of Ms. Adams was an immediate hit and several people asked about who made it.  The painting was painted by Alicia Campos Masso, an artist who got her start as a professional artist in New York City and now works in Tampa.  In addition to painting, she teaches children's art classes and Spanish classes.  If you are interested in learning more about her, seeing her other works or participating in the children's art classes or Spanish classes that she teaches in the Westshore area, please click here:  www.happy-industries.com.  You can also find her on facebook.com/happyindustrieshappyindustries or on her blog at happyindustriesartstudio.blogspot.com.

      Tiger Trek Results

      February 4, 2015

      Thank you to all of the teachers, parents and students who made Tiger Trek a smashing success.  The kids enjoyed the beautiful weather, walked many laps and enjoyed giveaway items from the Tiger Trek sponsors. Tiger Trek made over $18,000.00 for Grady Elementary PTA.  This is a huge boost to our school and ensures that the enrichment programs, book programs and beautification programs that Grady Elementary PTA sponsors will all continue.  All of this money will be spent on enhancing the educational experience at Grady Elementary.  So, thank you very much! 

      Thank you very much to all of you who volunteered for Tiger Trek.  It was your help that made the event fun and well organized.  We hope that the online volunteer registration service made it easy for you to sign up and participate in Tiger Trek.

      The Tiger Trek individual winners and amounts raised are:  First Place:  Drew Bresnahan ($610.00); Second Place:  Daniel Kumm ($500.00); Third Place:  Kennedy Gilbert ($475.00); and Fourth Place:  Sydney Jackson ($300.00).  Congratulations, Drew, Daniel, Kennedy, and Sydney!

      The top fundraising classes in each grade are:  Ms. Driggers ($294.00); Mr. Morrow ($536.00); Ms. Warren ($685.00); Ms. Oliva ($890.00); Ms. Trupp ($551.00); Ms. Webber ($1,217.00) and Mr. Lanier ($246.00).  All of these classes win a Sally O’Neal’s pizza party and Ms. Webber’s class wins Yogurtology Party.  Ms. Webber, as the teacher of the class with the most donations overall, wins a Crave Spa pedicure.

      The top fundraising students in each grade are:  Kindergarten and Pre-K: Ethan Medoro; First Grade: Reese McCambridge; Second Grade: Drew Bresnahan; Third Grade: Sydney Jackson; Fourth Grade: Daniel Kumm; and Fifth Grade: Logan Pawelek.  Each top student wins a $25 Whole Foods gift card and a sports or art class from The Prep of South Tampa.

      Congratulations to all Tiger Trek participants and winners!  To see the full list of prizes, please click here:  Tiger Trek Prizes.  All Tiger Trek prizes will come home with students in the next week or so.  The class parties have to be arranged with the teachers, so the dates of those parties are not yet determined.

      As we approach Tiger Trek, we want to thank each of you who has contributed and each student who will participate.  We are very close to our fundraising goals and we hope that we will continue to receive donations up to the conclusion of the event.  To register your child or donate please go to:  Tiger Trek Website.

      All participants who have registered on the Tiger Trek Website by the end of today will be qualified for a drawing to win either an Orange Theory Fitness Pack, which includes 10 fitness classes at Orange Theory ($250 value), or a Color Me Mine Artist Experience, which includes admission, studio fees and pottery for two people ($50 value). 

      Tiger Trek t-shirts will be distributed on Friday, January 30, the morning of Tiger Trek, by children’s teachers.  These t-shirts may be worn on Friday and every Friday or spirit day thereafter.  We hope your children love the t-shirts and other goodies that will be given away at Tiger Trek.

      We would like to thank our Family Sponsors: The Bresnahan Family, The Figueredo Family, The Iles Family, The Lopez Family, The Lyons Family, The McCambridge Family, The Noznesky Family, The Rubio Family, The Ruiz Family, The Saste Family, and The Schentrup Family.  We would also like to thank our Gold sponsors:  Abdoney Orthodontics, After Hours Pediatrics, South Tampa Pediatric Dentistry –  Lesley Rudolph DMD,  and State Farm Agent Jim Cornwell.  And thank you to our Silver Sponsors:   Academic Aftercare, Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza, Mathnasium, Pediatric Dental Center, South Tampa Kids Dental Krewe, and Whole Foods.  We also have many wonderful in-kind sponsors.  A complete list of our sponsors, with links to their websites, is here: Sponsor List

      We still need a few more volunteers help out and cheer on our students.  Your commitment to volunteer can be as little as 55 minutes.  We will serve our volunteers hot Kahwa coffee in the morning and delicious PDQ chicken tenders for lunch, as well as other snacks, so you won’t go hungry.  To see a complete event schedule and volunteer online, please click here:  Volunteer

      Tiger Trek Update

      January 23, 2015

      Tiger Trek is coming up on January 30!  Please consider volunteering for this event and cheering on your child! Your Commitment to volunteer can be as little as 55 minutes. To see the event schedule and volunteer, please click herehttp://gradytigers.org/index.cfm?p=2015-walk-a-thon-volunteer-form.

      Currently 45% of our Grady students have participated by submitting donations for Tiger Trek. It is not too late to register your child! You can do so online at tigertrek.dojiggy.com. Grady PTA can still reach our goal if every child raises $35 in donations. Please help make our goal a reality.

      We have a limited number of additional Tiger Trek T-shirts still available for students who submit envelopes or online donations of $35 or more between now and the day of the event.    

      Tiger Trek T-shirts will be distributed in class by teachers on the morning of Tiger Trek.   

      Thus far, Tiger Trek fundraising has been robust, with the fourth grade in the lead and with Ms. Webber’s class looking most likely to win the Yogurtology party.  There is still time to change the results!  Remember the top class in each grade wins a pizza party!   A list of the current top earning Tiger Trek classes and students is as follows:

      Top 5 classes overall

      Ms. Webber $1,182

      Ms. Dickens  $800

      Ms. Oliva  $645

      Ms. Doremus  $520

      Ms. Warren  $490

      These are not final results and are subject to change any time before the conclusion of Tiger Trek.  Thank you so much to all of you for these fantastic results.

      Inclusiveness and equality are important at Grady Elementary.  We want to ensure our school makes everyone feel welcome and that every student receives an excellent educational experience.  Please take a minute to review the School District's Statement of Non-Discrimination Policy.  It is critically important that we all abide by this policy.  Please direct any questions about the policy to the school or Mr. West, whose contact information is listed below. 

       Statement of Non-Discrimination Policy

      The School District of Hillsborough County does not discriminate nor tolerate harassment on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, age, disability or marital status in its educational programs, services or activities, or in its hiring or employment practices; and it will take immediate action to eliminate such harassment, prevent its recurrence, and address its effects. Any student(s) or employee(s) found to have engaged in acts of harassment on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, age, disability or marital status will be promptly disciplined. Such discipline may include, if circumstances warrant, suspension or expulsion for students, or suspension or termination for employees. 

      All school personnel, students, and parents are expected to work together to prevent harassment. Should you believe you or another individual has been subjected to harassment on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, age, disability or marital status, you should report the harassment to your school or to:

       Mark West, General Manager of Employee Relations

      Division of Human Resources

      901 East Kennedy Boulevard

      Tampa, FL 33602

      (813) 272-4227

      [email protected]

       

      Grady Elementary PTA Family Night at PDQ January 22

      Before or after your family attends Unlock the Treasures of Reading, please also attend Family Night at PDQ!  PDQ is hosting Grady Family Night  on Thursday, January 22, 2015, from 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm at their South Tampa location (2207 South Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, FL 33629; restaurant tel: (813) 254-7373).  PDQ will donate a portion of all Grady-related sales to Grady PTA.  To ensure we get credit for your purchase,  please mention at the register that you are there in support of Grady.

      Grady's Tiger Trek Walkathon is coming up on Friday, January 30.  T-shirts will be given away on the day of the Walkathon to each student who raises at least $35 by this Friday, January 16.   

      To be eligible to receive a Tiger Trek T-shirt on the day of Tiger Trek, simply register at Tiger Trek website and collect $35 in funds through the website before January 16, 2015 AND/OR send in the white Tiger Trek donation envelope in your child’s backpack.  If you can’t find the envelope, additional Tiger Trek fundraising envelopes are available in the front office of the schoolAny combination of donations through the website or envelope that equals or exceeds $35 submitted on or before January 16, 2015, will entitle your child to a Tiger Trek t-shirt. 

      T-shirts will be distributed on the morning of Tiger Trek and they can be worn for all spirit days for this year and each year thereafter. 

      So, if your child would like to wear a Tiger Trek t-shirt on the day of the event, please send in your envelopes or register your child and collect $35 in donations by January 16, 2015.  To ensure that your child receives the proper size t-shirt, please write in the child’s youth t-shirt size on the envelope (there is no particular place to write this, so just write it anywhere).  Or, if you register on the site, please choose a size from the shirt size selection bar at the bottom of the page.

      Students who raise more than $35 after January 16 are still going to be given a Tiger Trek T-shirt, but depending on when the donations are submitted, the T-shirt might not be available on the morning of Tiger Trek.  To be certain that your child has a Tiger Trek shirt on the day of the event, please submit the envelope and/or website donations by this Friday, January 16, 2015.  

      Please contact VP of Fundraising Jessica Schentrup with any questions at [email protected].

      Yearbook Orders

      December 11, 2014

      It is Yearbook time!  Don't miss out on all the wonderful memories of this year.  Order yours now.  The best way to place an order is online at: ybpay.lifetouch.com using our Grady ID Code: 11885215. 

      Also, if you have pictures of school events that you would like to see in the yearbook, please email the photos to our Yearbook Advisor, Janella Enajibi, at [email protected] with or without the names of the people pictured.  

      Giannios 1 lb. Tins with Chocolates 
      Luxuriate in bite-size pieces of heaven. Created by master confectioners from only the finest and freshest ingredients, each piece offers an exquisite filling enrobed in smooth, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate. Indulge in a truly tempting treasure for your palate. 


      Flavors Assorted

      Cherry Cream, Dark Marshmallow, Dark Raspberry Cream, Double Dark Silk, English Toffee, French Mint Melt-Away, Haystack, Marshmallow, Peanut Butter Melt-Away, Peanut Cluster, Pecan Snapper, Peppermint Patties, Pretzel Clouds and Sea Salt Caramel



      Good to Know

      • Each flavor contains or may contain soy, milk, egg, wheat, peanuts and tree nuts
      • Family owned and operated business
      • Giannios has been using same family recipe for more than 100 years
      • Enjoy delicious specialty chocolates made by master confectioners
      • Made with only the finest and freshest ingredients from around the world
      • Each chocolate piece is individually wrapped and labeled by name
      • Packaged in 5 holiday-theme tins 
      • 0 trans fat
      • Made in USA

      These delightful chocolates have been donated by the family of Bear and Grayson Nicola.  Thank you, Nicola Family.

       

      The Grady Spelling Bee is coming! Written spellingcompetitions will occur in each classroom on December 10 and the school-wide competition featuring the winner from each class will occur on December 17, at 8:30 am on stage in the cafeteria.  All class winners will receive a certificate of award a Spelling Bee T-shirt and a Yogurtology gift card.  The school-wide first, second and third place winners will receive trophies.  The school champion will proceed to represent Grady at the Scripps Regional Spelling Bee (payment of the registration fee for the regional event is included in the first prize).  We are very excited about the Spelling Bee and we hope you join in our excitement!  For any questions, please email Grady Spelling Bee Committee Chair, Suzan Kumm, at [email protected]

      Please Come Join Grady PTA at Barnes & Noble for A night of reading, crafts and fun!

      The Grady Barnes & Noble Bookfair will take place on Friday, December 5, 2014 from 4 pm until 7:30 pm.  Guest readers will read to kids, and there will a craft table for kids to make a craft.   Mrs. Ward will read The Elf on the Shelf; Mr. Florio will read How The Grinch Stole Christmas. Then at 7 pm, Mr. Tsourakis will read The Polar Express.  Complimentary hot cocoa and cookies will be served at 7:15 pm

      Plus, gift wrapping by PTA members of any item purchased at Barnes & Noble in exchange for a donation will be available from 4pm – 7pm

      If you shop in person or online any time between Dec. 4 and Dec. 7, and use Code/ID 11498417 at checkout, 15-25% of your purchase will be returned to Grady Elementary. Also, during this promotion, B&N members with membership card will get 10% discount, and teachers with an educator’s card will get a 20% discount.

      We hope to see you there!

      Visit BN.COM/bookfairs to support us online from 12/04/2014 to 12/07/2014 by entering Book Fair ID11498417 at checkout.

      **Must use ID /code 11498417 at checkout in order for Grady to receive credit for your purchase.**

      Please come and join us the evening of December 11, 2014 from 5pm - 7pm.  We will be having the following events:

      • 5:00pm
        • Science Fair Project viewing in Lunchroom
        • Vendors
          • Smoothie King
          • Good Shepherd
          • Teamwork Imported Sportswear
          • Urban Shield Art
      • 5:15pm
        • Bake Sale with coffee and hot chocolate
        • Silent Auction of class projects
          • gradytigers.org/winter-projects
          • Cash, checks, and Visa/Mastercard accepted
      • 5:30pm
        • General PTA meeting
      • 6:00pm
        • Winter Concert
      **If you would like to donate to the bake sale, please have your bake goods (preferably individually wrapped) in the front office by 2pm on December 11, 2014.
      pta update

      Welcome back after a long holiday break. We have many events coming up before Winter Break starts.  We hope that you and your families can join us for these wonderful events. 

      This Friday, December 5, from 4 pm to 7:30 pm, please join us at Barnes & Noble Booksellers located at 213 N. Dale Mabry Hwy. for a Night of Reading.  Guest readers will read to kids, and there will a craft table for kids to make a craft.  Mr. Tsourakis, Mrs. Ward, Mr. Florio and Ms. Oliva are among our special guest readers.  The evening will be capped off by a special reading of The Polar Express by Mr. Tsourakis at 7 pm.  At 7:15, complimentary hot chocolate and cookies will be served.  This promises to be a fun night of reading for the whole family.  So please come out to enjoy a night of family fun and reading with your Grady friends.  For more information about this event, please click here: http://gradytigers.org/2014/12/grady-night-of-reading-at-barnes-noble   

      Barnes & Noble will also be donating between 15 and 25% of any sales that occur any time between December 4 and 7 to Grady, if you use the code 11498417 at checkout.  We will have extra copies of this code printed on flyers at the event, or you can simply pull this email or the website flyer up on your phone http://gradytigers.org/_cache/files/8046b36a-0a0e-407d-9b7d-642b2795dbbd/bookfair.png in order to have the code ready at checkout.  Gift wrapping by PTA members of any item purchased at Barnes & Noble in exchange for a donation will be available from 4 pm – 7 pm. 

      Good luck to Grady students in the fourth and fifth grades as they compete in the Math Bowl, this Friday, December 5.  This Friday is also the day the fourth grade travels to St. Augustine, Florida for a field trip.  Because this is going to be a very busy week, we will NOT have a Doughnut sale on Friday, December 5

      We hope students in the third, fourth and fifth grades are preparing for the Grady Spelling Bee. Written spelling competitions will occur in each classroom on December 10 and the school-wide competition featuring the winner from each class will occur on December 17, at 8:30 am on stage in the cafeteria.  All class winners will receive a certificate of award a Spelling Bee T-shirt and a Yogurtology gift card.  The school-wide first, second and third place winners will receive trophies.  The school champion will proceed to represent Grady at the Scripps Regional Spelling Bee (payment of the registration fee for the regional event is included in the first prize).  We are very excited about the Spelling Bee and we hope you join in our excitement!  For more information click here: http://gradytigers.org/2014/11/grady-spelling-bee-coming-in-december.  For any questions, please email Grady Spelling Bee Committee Chair, Suzan Kumm, at [email protected]

      The Winter Concert and display of science projects is set for Thursday, December 11.  Science Fair projects are available for viewing at 5 pm.  The PTA general meeting will start at 5:30 pm and will be followed by the concert.  Please look forward to a beautiful concert and to the presentation of class projects that will be available for silent auction.  Also please bring your checkbook to purchase a panel of the new Grady perimeter fence.  For more information about the fence, please click here: http://gradytigers.org/grady-fence.    

      It is Yearbook time! You don't want to miss out on these precious Grady memories. Order by December 19th to ensure you will get your copy and also to lock in the price. Orders placed after this date will be at a higher price. The best way to place an order is online at: ybpay.lifetouch.com  using our Grady ID Code: 11885215.  Paper order forms were sent home about a month ago if you cannot order online.  Extra paper forms are available in the school office.  Don't wait - be sure to place your order today!  

      If you take pictures at the Winter Concert or have pictures of the Fall Festival, Thanksgiving event or other school events, please consider submitting them to appear in the Grady Yearbook.  Just email the photos to our yearbook coordinator at [email protected]  with or without the names of the people pictured. 

      Lastly, a big thank you to the people who participated in Great American Teach In on November 20.  It was wonderful to see so many people sharing their interests and inspiring students.  Grady did get some news coverage during Great American Teach In.  The news coverage was combined with some good news about Mrs. Ward’s husband, Eric Ward, Assistant Chief of Tampa Police Department.  To read the article and the good news, please click here:  http://www.tampabay.com/news/publicsafety/tampas-new-assistant-chief-a-quiet-storm-in-police-work/2208376.  Congratulations to the Ward family!

      It is Yearbook time! You don't want to miss out on precious Grady memories. Order by December 19th to ensure you will get your copy and also to lock in the price. Orders placed after this date will be at a higher price. The best way to place an order is online at: ybpay.lifetouch.com using our Grady ID Code: 11885215.  Paper order forms were sent home about a month ago if you cannot order online.  Extra paper forms are available in the school office.  Don't wait - be sure to place your order today!  

      If you want to add pictures to the yearbook, please email the photos to our yearbook coordinator at [email protected]  with or without the names of the people pictured.  

      Grady Dads, please join us for the Dad’s Night on Tuesday, November 18 from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm, at Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza, located at 1901 S. Dale Mabry Hwy.  Please come by for pizza, drinks and conversation with other Grady Dads.  The Grady Dads will have an area within Anthony’s set aside for the Dad’s Night Out event.  A portion of your purchases will benefit the school.  If you have any questions you can send a reply email or an email to [email protected].    Anthony’s will also continue to donate 20% of all proceeds from Grady family purchases made on Tuesdays in November.  For more information on the Anthony’s Family Nights in November, please click here:  http://gradytigers.org/2014/11/tuesday-night-pizza-to-support-grady

       

      Get ready for the Grady Spelling Bee!  The Grady Spelling Bee, which is part of the Scripps National Spelling Bee is coming soon!

      Letters about the Grady Spelling Bee have gone home to all 3rd through 5th grade students.  Please save the letter because it has an attachment with the official list of spelling words for your students to practice.  Scripps National Spelling Bee prohibits the publication of the spelling words list on any website, so the spelling words are only available in paper format.   Written spellingcompetitions will occur in each classroom on December 10 and the school-wide competition featuring the winner from each class will occur on December 17, at 8:30 am on stage in the cafeteria.  All class winners will receive a certificate of award, and the school-wide first, second and third place winners will receive trophies.  The school champion will proceed to represent Grady at the Scripps Regional Spelling Bee.  We are very excited about the Spelling Bee and we hope you join in our excitement!  For any questions, please email Grady Spelling Bee Committee Chair, Suzan Kumm, at [email protected]

      Grady Elementary Principal, Kristine Dosal, is featured in Fox 13 News program's Extraordinary Ordinaries, for her lifelong connection to Grady Elementary.  This is an especially nice honor during National Principal Appreciation month.  To sse the video, cut and paste the link below into your browser: 

      http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/story/26854016/extraordinary-ordinaries-principals-special-connection-to-school 




      FOX 13 News

      Now is the time to sign up to volunteer at the Fall Festival!   There are booths put on by each grade and booths put on by the PTA.  To sign up online, please click here:

      Kindergarten Booths:  http://gradytigers.org/kindergarten-booth-volunteers

      First Grade Booths: http://www.volunteerspot.com/group/826323290044#!/show 

      Second Grade Booths: http://www.volunteerspot.com/login/entry/19781182000

      Third, Fourth and Fifth Grade Booths:  Email Chely Sierra at [email protected]

      PTA Booths: http://gradytigers.org/2014-fall-festival-volunteers

      Please consider volunteering for a shift so that the festival runs smoothly and all of our children get to enjoy the maximum number of games and events.  Most kids enjoy seeing their parents involved in school activities.  If you have questions, you can send a return email to me, Ellen Lyons at [email protected].  Please be sure to log your volunteer hours in the front office computer at a time when the office is open. 

      If you have not yet submitted a SERVE volunteer information form (sent home the very first day of school), please click here to print the form and return it to the office: http://gradytigers.org/_cache/files/36e1e08f-6673-4de7-9132-286cc54ad7f0/serve-form-2014-15.pdf.

      We are looking forward to a wonderful festival!  Please bring cash for the bake sale, grill items, Bucs Cheerleader pictures and to purchase items from vendors.  For a complete list of the booths, bounce houses, guest appearances and vendors please click:  http://gradytigers.org/events?EventInstance_id=2ffad279-f8df-4779-9ef6-083e434b3991.  

      Also, please bring your checkbook so that you can dedicate a panel of Grady’s new perimeter fence to your family, students or business.  Each donation of $250 to the new fence gets the donor a 4”x8” plaque that allows you to name your family’s, student’s, or business’s name to the new perimeter fence.  For more information, please click here: http://gradytigers.org/grady-fence.

      Game tickets are $1, Food items are $1 and wristbands for unlimited bouncing, rock climbing, games, popcorn and snow cones will be on sale at the event for $25 each.  Children under 2 play for free, but cannot collect prizes as they may be choking hazards.  

      Everyone who pre-purchased a wristband should have received an email from VP of Events, Jennifer Narvaes, to confirm the purchase and to let you know to pick up your wristbands at the event.  If you have any questions about wristbands, please email [email protected].

      Thanks for your time in helping make this a wonderful event for our Grady Families.

      Finally, we have a video suggestion for you.  Grady Elementary Principal, Kristine Dosal, is featured on a Fox 13 News program called Extraordinary Ordinaries.   The program, which focuses on Mrs. Dosal’s lifelong connection to Grady Elementary, aired this morning on Fox 13 News.  It will likely air again this evening and tonight during the late night news.   You can watch the video here:  http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/story/26854016/extraordinary-ordinaries-principals-special-connection-to-school.  If you enjoy the video, please let us know! 

      See you FRIDAY!

      Fundraising Merchandise pick up will take place Thursday, October 16 in the morning, afternoon and evening.  Here are the times and places for pick up:

      Morning: From 7:30 am until 8:00 am in the school cafeteria

      Afternoon: From 1:45 pm until 2:30 pm in the school cafeteria

      Evening:  From 5 pm to 6 pm, at the side gate near the cafeteria (where you enter for YMCA pick up)

      For any questions about fundraising merchandise pick up, or to schedule a special pick up of a large order, please email VP of Fundraising, Jessica Schentrup, at [email protected].

      17 students won a limosuine ride to lunch at PDQ. The Lunch in a Limo event will take place November 4.

      Fall Festival 2014

      October 10, 2014

      Fall Festival will be on October 24, 2014 from 5:00pm - 7:30pm.  To make Fall Festival successful, we are looking for parent volunteers.  We are looking for volunteers for set up, clean up, help with your classroom booths, bounce houses, obstacle course, snow cones, popcorn, grills, etc.  Shifts for the PTA booths are 45 minutes.  You can sign up at https://www.gradytigers.org/2014-fall-festival-volunteers .  Also wristband pre-sale ends October 21, 2014.  Wristbands are available day of the Fall Festival for $25 and tickets are $1 each.
      Please sign up to teach at the Great American Teach In on Thursday, November 20, during the school day. Students will love to hear from you, no matter what topic you present.  To sign up, please print and fill out the linked form: http://gradytigers.org/americanteach-in or print the PDF below and return it to the school in your child’s homework folder.  If you have not already filled out a SERVE form (needed to voluteer) please click here: http://gradytigers.org/?a=Files.Serve&File_id=36e1e08f-6673-4de7-9132-286cc54ad7f0.  If you have any questions, please contact Guidance Counselor, Nancy Barra, at [email protected].

      Time To Send In Box Tops!

      September 30, 2014

      Grady Elementary is having a Fall Box Tops Competition that ends on October 15, 2014.  Please start sending in Box Tops For Education clipped from a variety of products into school via homework folders or bring them to the front office.  Each box top is worth 10 cents to our school.  

      Please send your clipped box tops in clear Ziploc-style bags with a maximum of 50 per bag.   Please include a slip of paper with your child’s name, grade level, teacher’s name and the number of box tops. 

      The classroom that collects with the most box tops as of October 15, 2014, wins a party and the student bringing in the most box tops wins two passes to Playgrounds of Tampa, an indoor bounce house and party center located near Gandy Blvd.  

      Grandparents, please come shop at the book fair with your Grady student on Friday, September 26 and enjoy a doughnut compliments of Grady Elementary Media Center.

      Calling all Grady Moms!  Want a fun-filled night off and a chance to meet other Grady Moms?  Please join us at Kona Grill, 4134 W Boy Scout Blvd, Tampa, FL 33607 (restaurant telephone number is (813) 877-5938) for food, drinks and conversation.  The Mom’s Night Out is set for Thursday, October 9, 2014, starting at around 6:30 pm and ending around 9:30 pm.  We hope to see you there.  An RSVP to [email protected], is not necessary, but is appreciated.

      The Fall Fundraiser now includes a new catalog. The deadline to return orders for the Fall Fundraiser is now Monday, September 15. Family Night will take place at Yogurtology on September 17.

      First day of school!

      August 19, 2014

      Principal Mrs. Dosal and Asst. Principal Mr. Campbell
      August 19, 2014 was the first day of school. The PTA served coffee in the front of the school and hosted the Tiger Tears event for parents whose children are new to the school.

      Open House Information

      August 15, 2014

      Welcome to Open House

      Dear Grady Parents,

      This Friday is Open House at Grady Elementary where you can come meet your teachers and all of the wonderful staff!  Open House begins at 5pm.  Below is a list of additional activities that will be available during the Open House.

      1. Teamwork will be on site selling the new Grady uniform shirt with logo and spirit shirts.

      2. For $20 each the PTA will be selling bundled school supplies.

      3. There will be a FREE uniform swap.

      4. The YMCA staff will be available to provide after school care information.

      5. Three (3) Food Trucks will be parked in the car loop for those wanting dinner (Burger Culture, Whatever Pops and Ain't No Thang)

      6. The PTA has a goal of 100% parent participation this year! Single membership is $6. Dual membership is $10. Everyone who signs up for the PTA will receive a FREE car magnet!


        Magnets

        

      Grady Elementary has a new logo for its uniform shirts.  You can have your plain shirts embroidered with the logo or buy already made shirts at Teamwork Imprinted Sportswear, 2403 S Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33629 (across the street from Plant High School), tel: (813) 258-0331.  Kids’ Polos are $15 + tax.  Teamwork is open Monday to Friday, 9 am to 6 pm.
      pta update

      Dear Members of the Grady Elementary Community,

      Thank you for a fun and exciting school year.  It has been the pleasure of our PTA board to serve the school and to help our members enhance the educational experience of all Grady Elementary students.

      One more message about yearbooks.  There are still a few yearbooks available for purchase, first come first serve, for $25 each.  If you are interested in buying one, please go to the front office. 

      Also a quick message about magazine renewals.  If you have magazines that you would like to renew (whether you subscribed to them during the Fall Fundraiser or not), you can renew your magazine subscriptions and still support Grady at the same time.  If you go to this website, http://gaschoolstore.com/Store/Storefront?t=a863465b-14fb-4009-8c3a-850093a7e19f, you can renew your magazine subscriptions now and Grady will get credit for our upcoming Fall Fundraiser. 

      This is the last Grady PTA email to the members of the 2013-2014 PTA.  If you are interested in staying on this email list for the next year, please send a return email to me, VP of Communications, Ellen Lyons, at GradyPTACommunications@gmail.com.  

      If your students are returning to Grady Elementary, we hope you will rejoin the PTA, and we will see you at the Grady Elementary Open House on Friday, August 15, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm.  We hope you have a safe and happy summer!

      Sincerely,

      Grady Elementary PTA

      Mrs. Dosal PTA Award
      On May 13, 2014, Grady Principal, Kristine Dosal, was awarded the Hillsborough County PTA Elementary School Principal of the Year Award for 2013-2014. In addition to having our school win the Principal of the Year Award, Grady Elementary PTA won the following awards: Volunteer Hours Award, Grandparent Gold Membership Award, Golden Participation Award and Golden Early Bird Award.

      Teacher Appreciation Week

      May 5, 2014 - May 9, 2014

      Star Teacher Appreciation Week
      We would like to show our appreciation for our teachers and staff by taking them to "Hollywood." We have several events planned to honor our teachers and staff and we would like you and your child’s help to make it unforgettable. Also, please don't forget the front office, custodial and cafeteria teams.
      Magnets
      We have excellent news. We have developed a new non-peel car magnet with Grady’s new logo and website name. The magnets are 4 inches by 6 inches and oval. They are guaranteed not to peel by Teamwork Imprinted Sportswear (they are a silkscreen, painted-on magnet as opposed to a sticker on top of a magnet).
      PDQ Family Night
      Please come support our school’s family night this Thursday, April 3 from 5-8 pm at PDQ, located at 2207 S. Dale Mabry Highway. Please mention Grady Elementary when you order and a portion of your purchase will be donated to our school.
      PTA Leadership 2013-14
      Grady Elementary PTA is also hosting a meeting for persons interested in serving on committees or on the board of the 2014-15 PTA on Wednesday, April 2, at 8:00 am at Kahwah Coffee 3928 W. Henderson Blvd.

      March 2014 Newsletter

      March 24, 2014

      Kindergarten Round Up PTA
      Attached please find the March 2014 Grady Gazette. If you have any questions or comments about the information presented in the Grady Gazette, please send a reply email to [email protected].

      Sincerely,
      Grady Elementary PTA
      Based upon the tremendous success of Tiger Trek and our receipt of sponsorship funds all year long, Grady Elementary PTA plans to expend funds to replace the chain link fence on the all of the northern border and part of the eastern border of the school with a metal, wrought iron-style fence.

      Jump Rope for Heart and More

      February 13, 2014

      pta update
      Next Friday, February 21, 2014, Grady students will participate in Jump Rope For Heart, a program to benefit the American Heart Association.

      January 2014 Newsletter

      January 13, 2014

      pta update
      Dear Members of the Grady Elementary Community,

      Attached please find the January 2014 Grady Gazette. If you have any questions or comments about the information presented in the Grady Gazette, please send a reply email to [email protected].

      Sincerely,
      Grady Elementary PTA
      PDQ Family Night
      Please come support our school’s family night this Thursday, January 9 from 5-8 pm at PDQ, located at 2207 S. Dale Mabry Highway. Please mention Grady Elementary when you order and a portion of your purchase will be donated to our school.

      Box Tops Needed

      January 7, 2014

      Box Tops
      Please start sending in your box tops for the box tops competition that ends on February 14, 2014. Each box top is worth 10 cents to our school.

      Please send your box tops into your child’s class in clear Ziplocs with a maximum of 50 per bag. Please include a slip of paper with your child’s name, grade level and the number of box tops. The grade level with the most box tops collected as of February 14, 2014, wins a party.
      Uniform Swap
      Under the Pavilion during the Winter Concert, we will have a free uniform swap. If you have uniforms that no longer fit your students, please bring them to the school’s front office from December 17 through December 19 and give them to Mrs. Taylor. We will organize all the uniforms by size and make them available for free at the Winter Concert. You do not have to donate a uniform in order to receive a uniform.
      pta update
      Attached please find the Grady Elementary PTA November/December Newsletter. It is full of news and information about PTA events, including the Winter Concert set for Thursday, December 19, 2013. Please email [email protected] if you have any questions about the newsletter.
      pta update
      As you probably know, Apple has just unveiled the new iPad Air, a lighter, thinner, faster iPad. Perhaps you are thinking that you would like to upgrade to the new iPad Air during this year’s holidays, but you still have a working prior generation iPad. If so, please consider donating your prior generation iPad to Grady Elementary PTA, a 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization.
      ding the Fall Festival on Friday. We hope that you enjoyed spending time with your family at the event. Thank you very much to each of you who volunteered at the Fall Festival! It was wonderful to see so many of you volunteering at the booths, grill, bounce houses and bake sale. We saw many yearbook photographers volunteering at the event as well. Thank you for making the event a fun time for our children and a success for our school.
      pta update
      We are writing to let you know that fundraising pick up will be available tonight during the Fall Festival (5:00 to 7:30) in the cafeteria. If you haven’t yet picked up your fundraising items, please do so tonight.
      Grady Elementary Fall Festival is today at 5 pm! Please bring your entire family out for a night of fun and games. For your ready reference, below is a summary of the Fall Festival Event. An updated chart with booth locations is attached to this email. It’s not too late to volunteer to help out. We look forward to seeing you and your family tomorrow.
      Fall Image
      Grady’s Fall Festival is coming up on October 18, 2103 from 5 pm until 7:30 pm on campus. The Fall Festival is for the whole family and non-Grady siblings/family members are welcome to participate.
      We had a very successful, well attended Mom’s Night Out at Kona Grill on Monday, September 30. Thank you, moms, for coming out. Thank you, dads, partners and grandparents for making it possible for our moms to enjoy a great evening out.

      October PTA Newsletter

      September 26, 2013

      Click Read More to find the Grady Elementary PTA October Newsletter. It is full of news and information about upcoming PTA events, including the Fall Festival set for Friday, October 18.

      Grady Elementary PTA Update

      September 6, 2013

      This is just a quick update to tell you about an awesome new Grady t-shirt available for purchase, to update you on the Grandparents Breakfast and PTA board meeting, which all occurred after the September newsletter was published, to provide you with a link to a Box Tops contest, and to provide you with a copy of Grady’s Serve Form, which must be filled out by all school volunteers.

      September Newsletter

      September 4, 2013

      2013 PTA Board
      Welcome to the Grady Elementary PTA page. This issue contains a link to the September Newsletter. We hope you and your family are enjoying this new year at Grady Elementary School.