LOWER SCHOOL ISSUE 8 • OCTOBER 27, 2023
t h n l o y Newsletter MOctober 2023
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Teacher Spotlights for October Mrs, Livingston, 1st grade Mrs. Paige Ferguson, Resource Student Spotlights for October Brielle Bardon, 4th grade Milania Singh, 1st grade Burkley Ford, Kindergarten Special Recognition Matthew Joseph, 5th grade Mrs. Andrea Peterson (Playground and IXL) Honor Roll Recipients - Quarter 1 Perfect Attendance - Quarter 1 Field Trips Kindergarten 1st Grade 2nd Grade 3rd Grade Programs & Activities STEM Activities New Program - Starfall.com Fin Friends Fire Safety Program PJ Day in 3rd Grade K5's Week of Pumpkin Investigations & Ghost Rockets Important Information / Upcoming Events Parent Satisfaction Survey - Please complete Halloween Parade Lower School Book Fair Veterans / Grandparents Day Program Information Raise Craze Information Upcoming Calendar Events
2-5
6-7
8-9
10-12
13-16
17-19
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TEACHER SPOTLIGHT EMILY LIVINGSTON, 1ST GRADE MARVEL
Emily is not just a teacher; she's a magician in the classroom. Her students adore her, and her dedication to their growth and well-being is truly heartwarming. Emily's ability to create a nurturing and engaging learning environment has made her a beloved figure in the Lower School. Not only a teacher, she also serves as our LS STEM Coordinator. Her commitment to fostering a love for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in our students is inspiring. Emily's expertise extends beyond the classroom. She's our trusted Administrator Designee, demonstrating her leadership and administrative skills. In her spare time (if she has any!), Emily mentors our new teachers. Her guidance and support help our educators find their footing and thrive in our educational community. Emily Livingston is not just a teacher; she's an educational powerhouse who enriches the lives of our students and colleagues every day. We are fortunate to have her as an integral part of our school community.
A funny classroom moment “I have a student that always answers my rhetorical questions with the answer "it's not the 80s anymore!" It makes me laugh every time.”
EMILY LIVINGSTON
Dream for my students
“My dream field trip for my students is to take them on a big catamaran adventure to a tropical destination teeming with wildlife, both in the ocean and on land. It's a fun and educational journey that would allow them to explore and learn about the fascinating animals and ecosystems of this tropical paradise.”
My go-to song for classroom singalongs
“As a child I collected quarters from all the 50 states. I have them all and bring them in for my class to see each year when we learn about money.”
What would be my Superpower to enhance my teaching?
“We usually listen to a couple of different instrumental, yet upbeat, stations on Pandora. It is a delicate balance between relaxing everyone and but also not putting anyone to sleep! Disney, country, and pop instrumental is also fun because most of the time the students start singing the words.”
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Fun or unique fact about Me
“That’s an easy question! I wish I actually did have eyes in the back of my head and more than 2 hands!”
Mrs. Livingston is surrounded by a supportive group of coworkers who hold her in high regard.
Favorite Color: Blue Favorite Flower: Gerber Daisy Favorite Candy: Sour Patch Kids Favorite Restaurant: Chive Blossom
TEACHER SPOTLIGHT PAIGE FERGUSON, RESOURCE TEACHER
In the world of education, teachers often wear multiple hats, adapting to new roles that arise. Paige Ferguson, a seasoned educator, embodies this adaptability. This year, she made a significant transition, moving from her role as a 3rd-grade teacher to serving as the resource teacher at the K-5 level. In her own words, this shift is nothing short of her "heaven job." "I saw this as a chance to work with students across all levels and help them expand their skill sets," Paige said, reflecting on her decision. Her eagerness to adapt to new challenges and her unwavering commitment to her students have been constant throughout her career. Paige's passion for her work and her dedication to her students shine through in her new position. Her journey from a 3rd-grade teacher to a resource teacher at the K5 level is a testament to her unwavering commitment to education and her ability to adapt to new challenges.
PAIGE FERGUSON
Dream for my students
“My dream field trip would probably be Washington DC. I really enjoy history and Washington with all its museums would have so much to offer when it comes to learning about our own country's history. There are also many places to explore such as the Capital building.”
My go-to song for classroom singalongs “Happy by Pharrell Williams because I want students to know that school is a happy place.”
Fun or unique fact about Me “When I was a student in elementary and middle school, I took art lessons and even majored in art the first couple of years in college. I still enjoy painting with acrylics.”
What would be my Superpower to enhance my teaching? “Not sure if time travel is a superpower but I think the ability to take students back in time to witness history unfolding would be life changing. It would definitely be more interesting than just reading about it. “
A funny classroom moment “Several years ago, I was in the middle of a math lesson when I heard my name called out by a student. When I turned around, I was shocked to see this student's head stuck in the cut-out hole on the back of their chair. I tried to help this student get their head out but could not. Colonel Gibson came over to help and had to use gardening shears to cut the chair so the students head could be released. It was one of the craziest things that I have seen in a classroom.”
Favorite Color: Turquoise because it reminds me of the ocean! Favorite Flower: Tulip Favorite Candy: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups Favorite Restaurant: Franks (inside or out)
STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS - OCTOBER BRIELLE BARDON, 4TH GRADE A REMARKABLE ROLE MODEL Each month teachers select two-three students to feature in our monthly Lower School Newsletter. This month our first spotlight is shined on a student who exemplifies dedication, resilience, and a passion for learning. Last week, when Brielle arrived at school slightly late, she showed her exceptional determination. Upon entering the classroom during the spelling test, without any prompting, she swiftly hung up her bag, grabbed a piece of paper, and sat down to write the word that was being tested. However, it's not just in moments like these that Brielle shines. Every day, she puts forth incredible effort, showing up with a positive attitude and a
HEARTWARMING ACT OF KINDNESS FROM BURKLEY
genuine eagerness to learn. Her willingness to do her best at all times serve as an inspiration to her fellow students and a testament to her character. Brielle Bardon is more than just a diligent student; she is a role model to all. Her exemplary behavior, unwavering work ethic, and enthusiasm for learning make her a true asset to our school community. Let's all take a moment to celebrate Brielle's achievements and recognize her as this month’s Student Spotlight. Congratulations, Brielle, on your well-deserved recognition!
We wanted to take a moment to share a heartwarming story that exemplifies the spirit of kindness and generosity within our school community. In our recent kindergarten math class, a situation unfolded that touched our heart. One of our young Marlins found himself without a yellow crayon during math class. This is where Burkley, a shining example of empathy, stepped in. Without any hesitation, she took her own yellow crayon and broke it in half. Burkley then handed a portion of her yellow crayon to the student, saying, "here, now you have a yellow crayon."
MILANIA SINGH, 1ST GRADE HARDWORKING, RESPECTFUL, AND CARING FRIEND
Our second spotlight is shined on Milania, a student whose qualities of hard work, respect, and compassion have truly set her apart. What truly distinguishes Milania is her remarkable compassion for her peers. On a recent Wednesday, she went above and beyond to demonstrate her caring nature. Milania brought in several extra pairs of socks for her classmates, just in case some of them had forgotten about our "crazy sock day." Her thoughtful gesture exemplifies her selflessness and her genuine concern for the well-being and comfort of her fellow students. Milania's kindness and generosity goes even further. She is always the first student to offer a snack to other students that did not bring in a daily snack. We praise her for looking out for her classmates. This serves as a heartwarming reminder of the importance of community and friendship within our school. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Milania for her acts of kindness, and we celebrate her as a shining example of a caring friend and a dedicated student. Milania, your thoughtfulness and hard work do not go unnoticed, and we're grateful to have you as a part of our school community. This simple act of kindness spoke volumes about Burkley's character. It showcased her compassion, selflessness, and a genuine desire to help others in need. It's moments like these that remind us of the wonderful sense of community we have within our school.
Congratulations on being featured in this month's Student Spotlight!
SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS
Celebrating Excellence: LPS Marlin Qualifies for the Junior Golf National Tournament We are thrilled to celebrate the remarkable achievement of one of our very own fifth-grade students, Matthew Joseph. His dedication and talent in the world of golf have earned him a spot in the Under Armour Junior Golf National Tournament. Qualifying for the Under Armour Junior Golf National Tournament is an accomplishment that reflects Matthew's passion, skill, and sportsmanship. As Matthew embarks on this exciting journey to the national tournament, we stand behind him with pride and excitement. We know that he will represent our school and community with the same integrity and excellence that he has displayed throughout his golfing career. Matthew, your achievement is an inspiration to us all, and we couldn't be prouder of your accomplishments. We wish you the best of luck in the Under Armour Junior Golf National Tournament. Congratulations, Matthew Joseph, on this incredible achievement!
Playground Fort Renewed
Mrs. Andrea Peterson's dedication to improving the school's playground has been truly commendable. She proactively initiated contact with the company responsible for the original staining of the playground structure, recognizing that it didn't meet the expected quality standards. The company responded by re-powerwashing and re-staining the entire playground structure, significantly enhancing its appearance and durability. Furthermore, they generously contributed two new canopies for the end units, further enhancing the playground's functionality and aesthetics. Mrs. Peterson's commitment went above and beyond, as she generously donated additional items, including ropes, to further enrich the playground experience. Mrs. Peterson's actions have made a positive and lasting impact on the school community, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude for her contributions.
IXL - Not Just For Math Anymore
We are immensely grateful to Mrs. Andrea Peterson for her generous contribution to our school. Her donation of funds to purchase 25 student licenses for the ELA program offered through IXL will undoubtedly enhance the educational experience for our kindergarten and first graders. Mrs. Peterson's commitment to supporting our school and ensuring quality education is truly commendable. We extend our sincere thanks for her dedication to our students' success.
SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS Honor Roll Recognition - Quarter 1
School Attendance is Important
Academic Achievement: Research consistently shows a strong positive correlation between school attendance and academic success. Social and Emotional Development: Regular school attendance enhances a child's social competence, leading to improved relationships with peers and teachers. Routine and Responsibility: Research supports consistent attendance helps children establish a daily routine, fostering a sense of responsibility and time management. Teacher-Student Relationships: Regular attendance facilitates the development of strong, supportive relationships between students and teachers, which can positively impact a student's attitude toward learning. Preparation for the Future: Research supports that good attendance habits cultivated during these years are predictive of continued success in higher education and career readiness.
PERFECT ATTENDANCE Q1 McKenna Barclay, 3rd Robert Marona, 5th Leonardo Bleakney, K Caroline Meeks 5th Reese Cox-Floyd, 2nd Turner Mesimer, 3rd Stella Piper Dawson, 3rd June O’Halloran, 5th Lilli Fay, 2nd Sailor Peterson, K Elin Giardino, 3rd Bees Postal, K Wesley Gibson, 2nd Levi Robinson, K Eden Gilligan, 2nd Griffin Rosenblum, K Madeleine Hanna, 2nd Annabel Strong, 5th Greer Hawley, 3rd Ellie Swanson, 2nd Makynzie Lance, 4th Hollis Swanson, 4th Aubree Le, K Cosette Thornton, 3rd Johnathon Lursen, 2nd Adeline Truluck, 3rd Gianna Lutz, 2nd Trey Benford, 1st Reina Marona, 2nd Kate Zechmann, 5th
FIELD TRIPS 2ND GRADE HEADS TO THE PUMPKIN PATCH Our 2nd-grade class had a fun adventure on October 17, 2023, as they visited the Cabana Pumpkin Patch. The Cabana Pumpkin Patch, located in Pawleys Island, provided the perfect backdrop for our young learners to immerse themselves in the spirit of the season. Each student had the opportunity to explore the patch, searching for the pumpkin that spoke to them. But the excitement didn't end there! Upon their return to the classroom, our 2nd graders will be diving into an engaging series of measurement activities. They will learn how to measure the height, circumference, and weight of the classroom pumpkin. This hands-on experience will not only deepen their understanding of measurement but also bring an educational twist to their Halloween preparations. These real-world experiences, like our trip to the Cabana Pumpkin Patch, are invaluable in nurturing their curiosity and creativity. We extend our gratitude to the parents, guardians, and teachers who made this adventure possible. Your support is instrumental in providing our students with these enriching experiences.
KINDERGARTEN ENJOYS SOME PUMPKIN FUN TOO! In an unforgettable journey into the world of autumn, our kindergarteners set out on October 20, 2023, to explore the wonders of the Cabana Pumpkin Patch. Their day was filled with laughter, learning, and seasonal delights. The young adventurers navigated a challenging maze, unveiling their problem-solving skills as they found their way through twists and turns. Creativity soared as they painted pumpkins, showcasing their artistic talents. They enjoyed some seasonal fun! To beat the October warmth, the kids enjoyed refreshing seasonal slushees, adding a touch of sweetness to their memorable day.
FIELD TRIPS 1ST GRADE VISITS HOBCAW BARONY On October 19th, our first-grade students embarked on an exciting field trip to Hobcaw Barony, a place brimming with natural wonders. The journey was an eye-opening experience for the young minds as they delved into the intricacies of our local ecosystems and the fascinating creatures that call them home. Nestled on the coast near Georgetown, South Carolina, Hobcaw Barony provided the perfect backdrop for this adventure. Our young learners were not only immersed in the beauty of the outdoors but also gained a deeper understanding of the environment right in their own backyard. As veteran educators, we recognized the value of connecting classroom learning to real-world experiences. During the trip, the first-graders engaged in hands-on activities, guided by their enthusiastic teachers and knowledgeable guides. They explored the rich diversity of local flora and fauna, observed the unique habitats, and discovered the importance of preserving these ecosystems for future generations. The excitement and curiosity of the students were palpable throughout the day. This field trip left a lasting impression on our first graders, sparking a newfound appreciation for nature and the need to protect and preserve our local ecosystems. As educators, we believe that these real-world experiences play a crucial role in shaping young minds. The trip to Hobcaw Barony was a testament to our commitment to providing our students with meaningful learning opportunities. It was a day filled with discovery, wonder, and a deeper connection to the world around us.
FIELD TRIPS 3RD GRADE - BIRDS OF PREY On October 26, 2023, a group of enthusiastic 3rd grade students went on an unforgettable field trip to explore the fascinating world of Birds of Prey. The day commenced with a 45-minute presentation, during which our students were completely engaged and captivated by the various birds of prey on display. As they listened and observed, the skies graced us with a remarkable bonus - a red-tailed hawk and not one but two majestic bald eagles soaring above, providing an awe-inspiring spectacle that left our class in awe. One of our students, Cosette Thornton, displayed her deep knowledge of the subject matter by discussing the classifications of buteos and harriers. She even took the opportunity to ask the presenter whether the kite, a particular bird of prey, was considered a buteo, further enriching our understanding of these remarkable creatures. Our explorations didn't end there; we were keen to observe and understand the local owl population. Guided by eagle-eyed students, we identified a tree that seemed to serve as either a nesting place or a regular visiting spot for owls. Notably, we came across unmistakable signs of owl presence, marked by owl splatter from regurgitation. A hands-on highlight of our trip was the discovery of an owl pellet, which had our students buzzing with excitement. This discovery will be invaluable for our upcoming class as we plan to dissect the pellet, delving into its contents to gain insights into the diet of the particular owl responsible. This hands-on experience will undoubtedly enhance our understanding of these incredible creatures. To conclude our day on a sweet note, our class enjoyed a special treat in the form of Italian ice and gelato cups at Jeremiah's. This field trip was a remarkable experience that not only brought us closer to the wonders of nature but also deepened our appreciation for the intricate ecosystems that these remarkable birds inhabit. It was a day well spent, and we look forward to exploring the world of nature and science on many more such adventures.
PROGRAMS & ACTIVITIES EXPLORING STEM WITH EXCITEMENT: 5TH GRADERS RECEIVE STEM TOTES We are thrilled to share some exciting news from the fifth-grade classrooms! On October 11th, our young scholars received an amazing gift that's sparking their curiosity and love for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. These STEM totes are packed with engaging activities that are sure to inspire future innovators. Students were excited to find out they could take them home! Inside each STEM tote, students discovered a world of learning. They received Numeracy the Board Game, K'Nex activity, composition notebook for notes, observations, and idea, oil pastels and colored pencils, a science experiment book of hands-on experiments, and an abstract art book. These STEM totes are not just a collection of items; they are keys to unlocking the wonders of STEM education. Remember, a brighter future starts with inspiring young minds today, and these STEM totes are a wonderful step in that direction. Stay curious, stay creative, and keep embracing the world of STEM!
NEW TOOL AVAILABLE TO K-5 STUDENTS Starfall was founded by Dr. Stephen Schutz, who had difficulty learning to read as a child due to dyslexia. He was motivated to create a learning platform with untimed, multisensory interactive games that allow children to see, hear, and touch as they learn. The program emphasizes exploration, play, and positive reinforcement— encouraging children to become confident and intrinsically motivated. Starfall activities are research-based and align with state learning objectives for English language arts and mathematics. Its emphasis on phonemic awareness, systematic sequential phonics, and common sight words in conjunction with audiovisual interactivity is especially effective for teaching emergent readers.
Ask Your child’s teacher about it!
PROGRAMS & ACTIVITIES FOSTERING MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS: THE FIN FRIENDS PROGRAM The Fin Friends program is an innovative initiative that brings together students of different age groups to build strong intergenerational connections while engaging in collaborative learning experiences. Older students are paired with younger ones, and together they embark on exciting educational adventures. These activities not only promote academic growth but also nurture empathy, leadership skills, and a sense of belonging within the school community. Fin Friends is more than just a program; it's a bridge between generations, fostering a love for learning and lasting friendships that enrich the educational journey for all participants. Fin Friends are groups as follows: Kindergarten and 12th grade 6th and 11th 1st, 4th and 8th 2nd, 5th and 9th 3rd, 7th and 10th They held their first activity on Wednesday, October 18th, where they worked on a special project provided by Mr. Wehunt, Head of School. The kids, young and old, had a wonderful time. We plan to hold meetings every month as well as have the younger fins sit with their older fins during Whole School Assemblies.
PROGRAMS & ACTIVITIES FIRE & SAFETY VISIT FROM MIDWAY FIRE DEPARTMENT Introduction: On the morning of October 25, 2023, the Midway Fire Department brought a burst of excitement to the young students of Kindergarten through 5th grade at Lowcountry Preparatory School. With their passion for fire safety and community education, the firefighters paid a visit to our school, leaving an indelible mark on our students' hearts. The Midway Fire Department dedicated their time generously, conducting interactive and informative sessions for students in Kindergarten/1st, 2nd/3rd, and 4th/5th grade. Each group enjoyed approximately 40 minutes of engaging discussions and demonstrations. The firefighters shared vital information about fire safety, teaching our students valuable lessons that will stay with them for a lifetime. To make the experience even more memorable, the Midway Fire Department distributed special gifts to our young learners. Every student received a coloring book, a set of crayons, and a fire department hat. These tokens not only thrilled the students but also served as a reminder of the importance of fire safety. The Fire Safety Program provided by the Midway Fire Department was a fantastic learning opportunity for our students. We believe that the knowledge they gained during this event will help keep them safe and informed. We look forward to future collaborations with the Midway Fire Department and further strengthening the bond between our school and the local heroes who protect our community.
PROGRAMS & ACTIVITIES PJ DAY IN 3RD GRADE...WHAT FUN! Today, 10/27, is an extra special day for our third-grade friends, all thanks to Elin and Ollie! Two weeks ago, during our chip trading adventure, Elin and Ollie combined their chips to purchase this wonderful PJ Day. The classroom is a haven of coziness and comfort as everyone enjoys this fantastic day in their pajamas. But that's not all! Ollie and Elin have another surprise for us – a delightful special treat. We're in for a delightful movie experience too. We'll be watching 'ROOM ON THE BROOM,' a magical tale that's bound to make our PJ Day even more enchanting. What a terrific way to spend the day! Thanks to Elin and Ollie, we're all having a blast on our PJ Day, creating unforgettable memories together.
K5'S WEEK OF PUMPKIN INVESTIGATIONS & GHOST ROCKETS Kindergarten had an exciting week of handson learning. They began by delving into the world of pumpkins, feeling the squishy pulp, counting seeds from one to a hundred, and using adjectives to describe the pumpkins' shapes and sizes. They even had a blast counting the pumpkin ribs, turning it into a playful math exercise. To wrap up their exciting week, the young scientists conducted a thrilling science experiment. Using simple materials like tubes, Alka-Seltzer tablets, and water, they created ghost rockets. The classroom came alive with excitement as they watched the chemical reaction launch their ghost rockets into the air. This hands-on experience left the kindergarteners wide-eyed and inspired. It was a week filled with laughter, curiosity, and discovery, blending fun and education to create lasting memories for these budding learners.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION & UPCOMING EVENTS PARENT SATISFACTION SURVEY The completion of the Parent Satisfaction Survey is crucial for several reasons: 1. Improving Educational Quality: Your feedback provides valuable insights into the school's strengths and weaknesses. It helps identify areas that need improvement and highlights what is working well. . 2. Parental Engagement: Your participation in the survey demonstrates a commitment to open communication and partnership between the school and families. 3. Data-Driven Decision Making: We can make informed decisions based on the survey results. This data helps in setting priorities and allocating resources effectively, ensuring that the school addresses the most pressing concerns. 4. Accountability: It is a tool for transparency and helps ensure that the school is responsive to the needs and expectations of its community. 5. Continuous Improvement: Input from parents keeps the school adaptable and responsive to changing needs and educational trends. It's a part of an ongoing process of improvement. 6. Boosting Parental Satisfaction: By actively seeking and acting upon parent feedback, we can enhance the satisfaction of parents and continue to create a more positive school environment. 7. Community Building: Your opinions are valued, which lead to stronger relationships between families and the school.
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BOOK FAIR Our Annual Lower School Book Fair is coming! This is a favorite event for the students. Mrs. Parsons will be providing more information soon. Save the Date!!!
Dates: 12/4 - 12/11 Location: LS Hallway
VETERANS / GRANDPARENTS DAY PROGRAM The Veterans & Grandparents Day Program is right around the corner. This is an event you do not want to miss. All are welcome to attend! The program starts at 8:30am on November 10, 2023. Parents and family are invited to enjoy some coffee and donuts in the Marlin Cafe from 8-8:30am while waiting for the program to start.
What should students wear? Kindergarten & 1st Graders: Dress as various animals. Mr. Starlight will let students know what animal they will be so be on the lookout for this information. 2nd: Marines - Wear red, with yellow and/or white accents. 3rd: Army - Green & black or Camo. Not duck or deer hunting camo though. Perhaps some can paint camo on their faces like Army Rangers. 4th: Air Force - Sky blue. Any combo of different shades of blue is okay, as long as it includes sky blue. Aviator shades would be great! 5th: Navy - All white. Sailor hats would be great! 6th: Coast Guard - Orange with navy blue accent. (Like orange T-shirts with blue pants/skirts.)
IMPORTANT DATES October 27th - Kick-off Assembly November 1st - Fundraiser Starts November 7th - Family Appreciation Night Potluck, Bring a Dish 5:30-7:00pm in the gym November 17th - Fin Friends meet to write kind notes November 17th - Fundraiser Ends December 1st - Closing Ceremony
CALENDAR October 27: Whole School Assembly - Raise Craze Kickoff! October 30: Basketball Season Begins October 31: Halloween Parade, 8:15am November 1: Good News Club after school program - last day November 1-17: Raise Craze Fundraiser period November 5: Daylight Savings Time Ends November 7: Family Appreciation Night Potluck, 5-7:30 in gym November 8: K5 and 1st grade News Room Field Trip November 10: Veterans Day / Grandparents’ Day Program, 8:30am November 10: Lunch Orders Open November 13: Lunch Orders Close November 17: Interim Reports Emailed Out - 3rd-12th November 17: Whole school Assembly - Fin Friends Meeting November 17: Raise Craze Fundraiser Ends November 20-24: Thanksgiving Break - School Closed November 27: Poinsettias Delivered This Week December 1: Closing Ceremony for Raise Craze December 4-11: Lower School Annual Book Fair December 7: Holiday Sing Along Performance, 8:30 am December 8: Lunch Orders Open December 11: Lunch Orders Close December 13, 14, 15: 1/2 days; no aftercare, no lunches December 13: Breakfast with Santa, in Gym, 8:15 am December 18-January 1: Winter Break/School Closed January 2: Report Cards Emailed Out January 15: School Closed
FOOD DRIVE 10/23 - 11/16 DROP OFF IS IN EACH BUILDING