Question 1

After School Activities

Accepted Answer

SGE is currently offering Girls on the Run, with the possibility of adding more after school opportunities as the school year progresses.

Question 2

ASEP (After School Enrichment Program)

Accepted Answer

ASEP provides a warm, caring environment beyond school hours, when your scholar has the opportunity to play with school friends and get homework out of the way.   The SGE ASEP contact is Ms. Sadler (a.sadler@cms.k12.nc.us). Find more information here: https://www.cms.k12.nc.us/cmsdepartments/asep/Pages/default.aspx

Question 3

Back to School Open House

Accepted Answer

The Open House is typically the week before school starts. Grades 1-5 meet with their specific teachers to get all details about back to school. Kindergarten does not attend Open House. They have Orientation Day during the first week of school. Check the PTA website for Open House dates/times.

Question 4

Beginner’s Day

Accepted Answer

Beginner’s Day is a day held at the end of spring for incoming kindergartners and their families so they can get to know the teachers and staff, and learn more about what to expect at SGE.

Question 5

Birthday Celebrations at School

Accepted Answer

On your scholar’s birthday, you can choose to send in a store-bought treat for the class to be eaten at lunch. Contact your scholar’s teacher to coordinate.

Question 6

BOG Tests (Beginning of Grade Tests)

Accepted Answer

A standardized literacy test given to all 3rd graders at the beginning of the school year. It is considered a pre-test to establish a baseline measure to compose a growth model for each individual scholar.

Question 7

Book Fair

Accepted Answer

Each year, usually in the winter, the SGE PTA will run a Scholastic Book Fair to give families the opportunity to grow their home libraries, while also raising money for the PTA.

Question 8

BOX Tops For Education

Accepted Answer

It's a program designed to raise money for schools. Historically box tops were coupons clipped from grocery products to be turned in for cash. This is now done virtually.  Download the Boxtop app to begin scanning your receipts and earning money for SGE.

Question 9

Canvas

Accepted Answer

Canvas is an online learning management software program. It streamlines classroom work to one location where teachers can post and grade assignments, and scholars can  complete work and receive feedback from teachers.

Question 10

Car Line Procedures

Accepted Answer

Drop off:Scholars may be dropped off in the carpool line between 7:30-8 a.m. All families should remain in their cars until they have arrived in the drop off area and their scholar has been assisted by a staff member while exiting the car. Families are expected to stay in their vehicles during the drop off. If you arrive after 8 a.m., you will need to park, walk your scholar into the building, and sign your scholar in as the staff members facilitating carpool are expected to report to the building at 8 a.m.  Pick up: If you are picking up your scholar from school via carpool they must be picked up no later than 3:15 p.m. On the first day of pick up you will receive a SGE Car Rider Sign, where you will write the name and grade level of your scholar. Please place this sign in a visible space on your dashboard. A staff member will come and read your scholar’s name and issue you a slot number where you will pick up your scholar. Please review the Car Line Map (also pictured below) for carpool procedures. If you have any questions about carpool, please contact Ms. Miller: jacqueline.shipley@cms.k12.nc.us.

Question 11

Chats with Principal Potter

Accepted Answer

There is a monthly chat with Principal Potter during which she informs families about all the happenings at the state, district, and school levels. Families are encouraged to ask questions. The chats are usually held at the beginning of the month on a Thursday evening and again on a Friday morning. Check the school website calendar for the next one: https://schools.cms.k12.nc.us/shamrockgardensES/_layouts/15/charmeckSchoolfiles/School_Calendar.aspx?isdlg=1

Question 12

Child Nutrition Services

Accepted Answer

The CMS department that provides breakfast and lunch to our scholars each day. For more information visit: https://www.cms.k12.nc.us/cmsdepartments/nutrition/Pages/default.aspx

Question 13

Club Fridays

Accepted Answer

Club Fridays are typically offered by SGE at no cost to families. These twice monthly clubs are non-academic and offer scholars a fun break at the end of the week.   The clubs are primarily run by teachers, community volunteers and families. Some examples of the clubs offered in previous years include: Arts & Crafts, Board Games, Fantastic Female Athletes, Friendship Club, Gardening, Girls Walk & Talk Club, Journalism/Creative Writing, Legos, Minecraft, Origami & Paper Arts, Painting, Programming, Puzzles, SGE Chefs, Sports Leadership, STEM Makerspace, Theater, Typing and Yoga.   We look forward to reinstating Club Fridays when COVID restrictions are lifted!

Question 14

CoGAT (The Cognitive Abilities Test)

Accepted Answer

This test is a multiple choice assessment that measures reasoning and problem solving skills in three different areas: verbal, quantitative, and non verbal. This test is normally given in the fall of the scholar’s second grade year. These test results are one of the criteria used to determine if a scholar is gifted. Find more information about this process here: https://www.cms.k12.nc.us/cmsdepartments/ci/astd/pages/gateway.aspx

Question 15

Connect Classes

Accepted Answer

Elective classes taught by specific, specialized teachers to give scholars a more rounded education. The Connect Classes at SGE are Physical Education, Music, Science, Art, and Media & Mindfulness.

Question 16

Connect Ed

Accepted Answer

Connect Ed is a recorded phone call from Principal Potter that is used to update families with important information. If you prefer to receive an email in addition to the recorded call, reach out to Ms. Vanderhall by calling the school at 980-343-6440 or emailing valeried.vanderhall@cms.k12.nc.us.

Question 17

Curriculum Night

Accepted Answer

An event where families can discover what their scholar will be responsible for learning this year and the strategies the families can use to support the learning process.

Question 18

Dragon News

Accepted Answer

Monthly PTA newsletter sent home to families in Thursday folders, typically the last week of the month. Electronic copies can be found at the bottom of the Dragon News page.

Question 19

Dress Down for FUN(d)

Accepted Answer

On the first Friday of each month SGE has a dress down day (no uniform required) that benefits a designated cause at SGE or within the local community.  Scholars can make a $2 suggested donation (any amount is appreciated and accepted) in cash, check or Zelle (sgemoney@gmail.com).

Question 20

Early Release Days

Accepted Answer

Scholars are dismissed from school at noon (12 p.m.) on Early Release Days. Note that they wiill still receive lunch at school on those days.

Question 21

EOG Testing (End of Grade Testing)

Accepted Answer

The North Carolina End-of-Grade tests are designed to measure scholar performance on the goals, objectives, and grade level competencies specified in the North Carolina Standard Course of Study. These tests are for grades 3rd, 4th and 5th grade scholars only. Learn more here: https://www.cms.k12.nc.us/cmsdepartments/accountability/statefed/Pages/default.aspx

Question 22

Edukits

Accepted Answer

SGE offers the Edukit program as a convenient option for busy families to order school supply kits online. Edukits are custom made to include the supplies selected and approved by SGE. Order at www.edukitinc.com at the beginning of the summer (prior to your scholar’s school year) for the best pricing and free shipping. Your scholar’s Edukit will be in the classroom on their first day of school. Reminders will be sent out from the school at the beginning of the summer.

Question 23

Family Handbook

Accepted Answer

Available in English and Spanish, this handbook gives families information about school procedures like what to do when your child is absent, the Title I family involvement policy and information about support services available. It's great to review this resource periodically.

Question 24

Field Day

Accepted Answer

Field Day is a fun celebration, usually held in the spring, where scholars from all grades participate in fun outdoor activities with their classes.

Question 25

Field Trips

Accepted Answer

The SGE community is united in its belief that true learning can take place anywhere, at any time. In staying true to this belief, we offer several unique learning experiences to scholars, both within the walls of the school and outside of the school.   Past field trips have included opportunities to visit Discovery Place, the State Capitol in Raleigh, the North Carolina Zoo and various farms in the region, as well as several museums throughout the Charlotte area. Each of these trips are supported by the SGE community, the PTA, and committed families, allowing scholars to have a diverse set of enriching learning experiences during their time at SGE.

Question 26

Fifth Grade Promotion

Accepted Answer

This event typically takes place in the morning on one of the last days of school. Families attend to celebrate their 5th grade scholar moving on to 6th grade.

Question 27

Grade Coordinator

Accepted Answer

This is a PTA position. One grade coordinator is assigned for each grade. The purpose of the grade coordinator is to share information between families, staff and the PTA. One of the responsibilities the grade coordinator is responsible for is coordinating teacher/staff gifts at the holidays and at the end of the year.

Question 28

Helping Hands

Accepted Answer

A weekly PTA committee that helps teachers and staff by taking care of tasks like: preparing copies, creating bulletin boards and prepping learning materials, which provides teachers with additional time to plan engaging and rigorous instruction for scholars.

Question 29

Here Comes the Bus App

Accepted Answer

Here Comes the Bus is a school bus tracking app that can simplify morning and afternoon routines for families and scholars by giving them real-time bus location and text/email notification alerts to help them get to the bus stop on time. Here Comes the Bus utilizes GPS data and an easy and an easy to use customizable map that works on a computer, tablet or smartphone. Sign up and learn more here: https://www.cms.k12.nc.us/cmsdepartments/transportation/Pages/Here-Comes-The-Bus.aspx

Question 30

Kindergarten Promotion

Accepted Answer

This event typically takes place in the morning on one of the last days of school. Families attend to celebrate their Kindergarten scholar moving on to 1st grade.

Question 31

Kindergarten Staggered Entry

Accepted Answer

During the first week of school, kindergartners will only attend one of the first three days to allow them to meet all of the kindergarten teachers and slowly adjust to elementary school. Staggered entry gives kindergarten scholars time to transition and allows the teachers to get to know each scholar in a smaller group setting. After the first week, each kindergartner will receive their teacher assignment and will report to that class the following week of school.

Question 32

LI/TD (Learning Immersion/Talent Development Program)

Accepted Answer

The SGE magnet program is the Learning Immersion and Talent Development Program. This program provides scholars a learning environment  focused on instructional strategies for advanced learners and a rigorous curriculum. The Learning Immersion (LI) program serves grades K-5. Scholars are taught using rigorous instructional strategies and curriculum to foster critical and analytical thinking skills to help them reach their greatest academic potential. The Talent Development (TD) program serves grades 3-5. The TD program provides a full day, inclusive program for identified gifted scholars. Learn more about this CMS magnet and the SGE program.

Question 33

Live With Lucky

Accepted Answer

Morning announcements that are broadcast into classrooms each day.

Question 34

Love for Math Week

Accepted Answer

A week-long celebration of math, in the fall, where scholars enjoy math activities throughout the week.

Question 35

Love to Read Week

Accepted Answer

A week-long celebration of reading, normally in the spring, where  scholars can log their reading minutes in a Read-a-Thon while participating in themed days of the week.

Question 36

Lucky The Dragon

Accepted Answer

The SGE school mascot.

Question 37

Lucky Dads

Accepted Answer

Lucky Dads is a group of SGE dads who volunteer at the school and help with different activities, such as carpool, throughout the year.

Question 38

Lucky’s Birthday Party

Accepted Answer

Usually held in early August, this event is a great way to reconnect with friends, and meet new ones, while celebrating Lucky’s birthday. 1st-5th grade scholars learn their teacher assignment at this event.

Question 39

Lunch Visits

Accepted Answer

Due to COVID restrictions, no lunch visits are allowed until further notice. When COVID restrictions are lifted, visitors are required to check in at the front office and log in to Lobby Guard before joining their scholar for lunch.

Question 40

MAP Testing (Measures of Academic Progress Testing)

Accepted Answer

The assessment tool used for measuring achievement and growth in math, reading, and language usage. It helps teachers target instruction for each scholar.

Question 41

Nutrislice

Accepted Answer

Nutrislice is featured on the CMS website and in an app to displays the school breakfast and lunch menu each day. Be sure to visit your app store for a free download of the Nutrislice app, where you will have easy access to SGE menus.

Question 42

PayPams (Pay Parent Account Management System)

Accepted Answer

Online payment service used by CMS to manage all cafeteria purchases. Families can load money on their scholar’s account to be used for an extra treat during school breakfast and lunch. More information is available here: https://www.cms.k12.nc.us/cmsdepartments/nutrition/Pages/PayPams.aspx

Question 43

Polar Express Pajama Day

Accepted Answer

The last day before winter break when the scholars are allowed to wear pajamas to school instead of their uniforms. The Polar Express movie is shown in classrooms.

Question 44

PowerSchool

Accepted Answer

PowerSchool is an online scholar management system that maintains scholar records for CMS. Beginning in third grade, the Powerschool system tracks grades and attendance for scholars. There is a website and also an app that families can use, available here: https://cms.powerschool.com/public/.

Question 45

Prospective Parent Open House

Accepted Answer

SGE holds several Open House meetings throughout the fall and winter to give prospective families the opportunity to learn more about the school. During the Open House prospective families meet and hear from the school community and tour the school.

Question 46

PTA (Parent Teacher Association)

Accepted Answer

The group of families, teachers and administrators who work together to create high quality learning experiences that spur all of SGE’s scholars to do their best. They meet once every other month to discuss all the happenings at SGE. For more information contact yourshamrockpta@gmail.com. Join online today here: https://sgepta.memberhub.com/store. To join, there is an associated donation of $5, a majority of which goes to the National PTA organization.

Question 47

School Hours

Accepted Answer

The bell schedule is 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Question 48

School Supply List

Accepted Answer

School supply lists are provided for each grade level. Here is the current school supply list: https://schools.cms.k12.nc.us/shamrockgardensES/Documents/SGE%20School%20Supply%20List%2020212022.pdf   Alternatively families can choose to order their scholar’s school supplies through Edukit.

Question 49

Shamrock Rocks!

Accepted Answer

Two large rocks located at our original SGE building site that families can pay to paint as a way to announce birthdays, celebrations and special accomplishments. Rock rentals will be available when we move back into our new building.

Question 50

Shamrock Shuffle

Accepted Answer

The annual 5K run/walk held in March to celebrate SGE and raise money for the school. This is SGE PTA’s biggest fundraiser. Learn more here: https://raceroster.com/events/2021/40972/shamrock-shuffle-2021

Question 51

Shamrock Way Shirts

Accepted Answer

Each year, the SGE PTA purchases a shirt for every scholar. The winning shirt design is  selected through a contest among SGE scholars.

Question 52

SIP (School Improvement Plan)

Accepted Answer

Step by step process for communicating with all stakeholders about SGE’s progress and areas of growth/needs.

Question 53

SIT (School Improvement Team)

Accepted Answer

A group of diverse families, staff, and community members who meet monthly to help shape SGE’s vision of the future. At this monthly meeting members develop and support the School Improvement Plan (SIP) and engage in decisions that impact all of our scholars.

Question 54

Spirit Nights

Accepted Answer

Throughout the year SGE will have school-sponsored spirit nights where families can get together for dinner/treats and help raise money for the school. How it works: visit the designated restaurant on the scheduled day/time frame and a portion of the proceeds will be donated back to SGE.

Question 55

Spirit Week

Accepted Answer

A weeklong celebration, usually around St. Patrick's Day, where scholars are encouraged to wear green and participate in the themed days of the week.

Question 56

Spiritwear Store

Accepted Answer

SGE PTA has an online spiritwear store, open year round, offering apparel and other SGE items. Your order can be delivered to the school for free or directly to your home for a small delivery. Visit the store here: http://www.sgespiritwear.com/

Question 57

Staff Appreciation Week

Accepted Answer

A week-long celebration in May when the PTA and families celebrate and appreciate the teachers and staff of SGE. Events typically include breakfasts, notes/cards from scholars, a lunch and raffle prizes.

Question 58

Summer Play Dates

Accepted Answer

Social events held during the summer, hosted by the PTA, at nearby neighborhood parks. Detailed information is provided at Beginner’s Day in the Spring. These events are a great opportunity for new and rising Kindergarten families to get to know each other.

Question 59

Talking Points

Accepted Answer

A two-way multilingual family engagement platform helping teachers and families stay connected via the app or through text message.

Question 60

The Four E's

Accepted Answer

These four focuses of the Learning Immersion magnet are the ways SGE scholars are encouraged to learn: Explore, Empower, Enrich, & Engage.

Question 61

The Shamrock Way

Accepted Answer

A behavior system that utilizes the FIVE SGE Character Traits; Respectful, Cooperative, Prepared, Self Disciplined and Hard Working; to monitor each scholar. There is a point tracking system for good behavior and quarterly celebrations for those scholars who are well aligned with The Shamrock Way. More information is available in the scholar agenda.

Question 62

The Shamrock Way Celebrations

Accepted Answer

Scholars who consistently engage in positive actions and meet the expectations of the Shamrock Way get to participate in a quarterly celebration.

Question 63

Thursday Folders

Accepted Answer

Folders sent home each Thursday that include information from the SGE staff, teachers, PTA or school.

Question 64

Title I

Accepted Answer

SGE is currently a certified Title I school. This means that SGE serves a significant number of scholars from low-income families and, as a result, SGE receives additional funding from the federal government to support the school’s needs.

You can Zelle directly to sgemoney@gmail.com.

To help families better understand the school and its community, below is a searchable, alphabetical list of terms and definitions.

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