Sunday Greetings!
We can’t believe it’s October already! At Greenwood, we take student safety and academic progress very seriously—every decision we make is centered on creating a secure, focused, and engaging environment for learning. We’re proud of how our staff continues to push the needle of instruction to ensure every student grows and shines. Be sure to read this Sunday Communication carefully—it’s packed with important updates, celebrations, and information to keep your family connected and informed.
Day 1 - 5 Schedule (1st - 5th Grade)
October is a great example of why our school uses a Day 1–5 rotation for grades 1–5 in our LAMPS schedule, especially since students are out of school on two Mondays this month. By rotating LAMPS days, we ensure all students receive equal time in each subject area. This approach keeps learning balanced and consistent for every child, no matter the calendar.
Oct. 6 - Oct. 10 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Day 1 |
Oct 13 - 17 | NO SCHOOL | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 |
SOL Pass
We have a great resource that is available to families. You can go to SOLpass.org and log in using our school Greenwood Elementary (Henrico) and the password is Gator. This website has released SOLs, practice tests, and activities that are really aligned to our End of Year Test.
Homework
Thank you for encouraging your child to complete their weekly homework. Homework is assigned in reading and math to reinforce classroom instruction, and teachers review it to assess student progress and identify areas of need. Consistent homework practice builds responsibility and helps strengthen foundational skills.
Why the House System?
The House System plays a vital role in strengthening our school community by fostering belonging, accountability, and leadership. It also serves as a positive behavior incentive, motivating students to demonstrate our core values through recognition. By contributing to a collective group, celebrating shared successes, and engaging in healthy competition, students develop essential life skills such as teamwork, responsibility, and respect. The House System enhances school spirit while ensuring every student feels valued and connected.
Reading at Home
Reading is a daily activity. Thank you for continuing to read with your children over the weekend. Some fun ways to keep the reading going include:
Offer a variety of reading activities (e.g. read in a blanket fort, read outside, listen to audiobooks)
Visit the library
Have a family book talk - after reading, ask questions such as, “What was your favorite part?” “Would you recommend this book?” “What do you think will happen next?”
Incorporate reading into daily life (e.g. read recipes while cooking together; read signs menus, or brochures during outings; and let kids help read instructions for games or crafts)
Model reading - let your children see you reading for pleasure and share what you’re reading and why you enjoy it
Bus Behavior
The bus continues to be our top area for behavior infractions. Bus removals will continue this week for students who do not demonstrate their Gator Values while riding. Please remind your child that the bus is an extension of our school community, and safety and respect come first.
Attendance
Consistent school attendance builds strong learning habits, social connections, and academic confidence. Every day counts—being present helps children stay on track, feel included, and reach their full potential. If your child needs to stay home due to illness, please contact the front office at (804) 261-2970 to let us know.
School Counseling
If you or your child would like to speak with Mrs. Melton or Mrs. Johnson, please reach out via email, ParentSquare, or the Schoology Counseling Electronic Form. Students can also complete a form outside the counseling office during the school day. We’re here to support your child’s well-being!
Parent Teacher Conference
We look forward to hosting Parent-Teacher Conferences on Thursday, November 6, from 3:00–6:30 PM. Teachers will share their conference sign-up links in their Friday communication on October 17 via ParentSquare. PK–1st grade teachers, Ms. Dulion, and Ms. Wilson will offer 15-minute time slots, while our departmentalized teachers will offer 10-minute sessions and plan to meet together with their 45+ students and families. Parents are encouraged to bring their child’s Glow Report, which will be sent home on October 24, to help guide the discussion and celebrate student growth.
Monday, October 6 - Friday, October 24 - Candy Drive
Our Candy Drive runs from October 6–24! Help us collect candy that will be distributed at our Trunk or Treat event on Thursday, October 30. Earn 5 house points for every 10 pounds of candy donated, and the house with the most total pounds will earn an additional 5 points!
Monday, October 6 - Richmond Ballet
We are excited to host the Richmond Ballet at 1 PM for grades K–3. This experience gives our students the opportunity to explore the arts, appreciate creative expression, and see how dedication and practice lead to excellence.
Friday, October 10 – 5th Grade Convocation
Join us for our first-ever Convocation on Thursday, October 10, from 8:15–8:45 AM in the gym. Parents are welcome—please allow extra time for parking. 5th graders should wear their “graduation attire” for this special event. We will also live stream - CLICK HERE to Join
Monday, October 13 – Student Holiday – Teacher PL Day
Friday, October 17 – Reading Award Ceremony
We can’t wait to celebrate students that have shown a love for literacy at 7:20 AM.
Monday, October 20 – Student and Teacher Holiday – Diwali
Quarter 2 Clubs Timeline
Quarter 2 Clubs will be released on Sunday, October 26. ORFF tryouts will take place on Monday, October 27, followed by Step Team tryouts on Thursday, October 30. We will also hold school play lead role tryouts during lunch throughout the week of October 27–31. All clubs will officially begin on Wednesday, November 5.
Transportation Changes
Please notify both the teacher and the office if you are making a transportation change.
Grades
Thank you for continuing to check your child’s grades at home through PowerSchool.
Volunteer to play the Piano and Drums - Click HERE
The Gifted Identification
The window will open Monday, Oct. 27th and close Monday, November 10th.
Lost and Found Update
All items remaining in Lost and Found after October 24 will be donated.