Teachers playing on playground

Highlights and Upcoming Events:  

Classroom Numbers and Updates- 217 whole building

Our current classroom numbers are as follows:

  • 3rd Grade: 22-23 students per class

  • 4th Grade: 20 students per class

  • 5th Grade: 22-23 students per class

As we settle into the school year, we anticipate the usual adjustments with new enrollments and some students moving.

Families received mailings on August 16th, which included the exciting news of your child's classroom teacher assignment, a welcome letter from the principal, and an invitation to our "Meet the Teacher" event.

Meet the Teacher Night: A Fantastic Start to the School Year!

We had an amazing turnout for our "Meet the Teacher" event on Thursday, August 22th, from 4:30 to 6:00 pm! Students and families eagerly explored our school, found their classrooms, met their teachers, and dropped off school supplies, setting the stage for a great year ahead.

The energy in the building was contagious! Our DJHCC team was on hand to assist with after-school care registrations, ensuring that families had the support they needed right from the start. Brian from Transportation was also there, expertly guiding parents through bus pick-up and drop-off times, making sure everyone was set for smooth travels.

Thank you to everyone who attended and made the evening such a success. We're thrilled to kick off this school year with such enthusiasm and can't wait to see all the amazing things our Sandpipers will achieve!

Office Update: A Warm Welcome to Ariel Weir!

We are thrilled to welcome Ariel Weir to our office team! She has already jumped right in and is quickly becoming an integral part of Ocean Park Elementary.

Staff Changes and Updates

We're excited to welcome Cheri Baker to our team as a 4th-grade teacher! Kirsten Mathison will also be moving up to teach 4th grade. Joining us as classroom paraeducators are Erin McCoy and Dena Kelffner. Additionally, Wendy Jacobson will be transitioning to her new role in the library. We're looking forward to a fantastic year with these talented educators in their new positions!


PLC/Teaching & Learning: 

On August 22nd, our staff engaged in an impactful training focused on trauma awareness and the science of HOPE, equipping us with essential tools to support our students' emotional well-being. The following day, August 23rd, we continued our professional development with OPE-specific training on the "Power of Play" and effective play management, emphasizing the importance of incorporating play into our learning environment to foster social and emotional growth. Staff played and channeled their inner child.  





Needs: As of 08/26, the playground resurfacing has not yet been completed. Unfortunately, this delay pushes back additional playground improvements, including painting soccer lines, replacing teeter-totter tires, hanging swings, and repairing the big toy. 


Washer and Dryer Update:

As of 8/25, the washer and dryer unit was installed on Friday. The dryer still needs to be vented, but the power and water connections are ready to go.