Communications
Family Communication
Our Vision for Family Communication
As an EL Education school, we use the EL Education Core Practices to guide our work. At Launch, families are key partners in the education of their children. Staff members make families welcome, value their contributions and backgrounds, and engage them actively in the life of the school.
- Leaders and teachers explicitly recognize that families care about their children’s education, bring strengths, and add value to the community.
- Leaders and teachers communicate with families regularly and respectfully and provide multiple ways to contribute to the academic and social life of the school.
- Leaders and teachers encourage families to be strong partners in their children’s learning.
(EL Education Core Practice #24)
Clear and detailed communication is always a priority at Launch. Through both formal and informal structures we ask for our families their voice in decision making. Launch families feel comfortable speaking up and offering their input because they know that we value it and use it to guide our programs.
Launch communicates with families in many ways including via email, text message, robo calls, our Family Webinar Series, our website and personal phone calls.
Launch Includes Family Voice in Decision-Making
At Launch parents are our partners. We have formed trusting relationships which lead to meaningful input and feedback. We include family voice in decision making by asking for feedback in many different ways including surveys, committee meetings, 1-1 calls and focus groups. Launch formed a School Reopening Family Advisory Committee to work with our leadership team to help create and give feedback on all reopening plans and ideas. The group was open for any interested parent to join and consists of a group that represents all three grades and the diverse demographics of our families. Any family who would like to join is welcome!
The Parent Advisory Committee Role:
- select which model and schedule would meet families needs
- craft, circulate and analyze data from our School Reopening Survey
- present school reopening survey data at a parent webinar about reopening
- provide feedback on Launch family communication structures
- talk with our current families to answer questions and share their perspective
- walk through the building to help us plan for the health and safety of our students
Family Memos
The Launch Family memo is sent out weekly on Friday via email. The memos are linked below so that families can translate the memo into any language of their choice.
- Family Memo - 03/19/2021
- Family Memo - 2/19/2021
- Family Memo - 2/12/2021
- Family Memo - 2/5/2021
- Family Memo - 1/22/2021
- Family Memo - 1/15/2021
- Family Memo - 1/8/2020
- Family Memo - 12/18/2020
- Family Memo - 12/11/2020
- Family Memo - 12/4/2020
- Family Memo - 11/20/2020
- Family Memo - 11/13/2020
- Family Memo - 11/6/2020
- Family Memo - 10/30/2020
- Family Memo - 10/22/2020
- Family Memo -10/16/2020
- Family Memo - 10/9/2020
- Family Memo - 10/2/2020
- Family Memo - 9/11/2020
- Family Memo - 9/4/2020
- 9/1 Important Update - Clarification of Mayor's Announcement
- Family Memo - 8/28/2020
- Family Memo - 8/21/2020
- Family Memo - 8/14/2020
- Family Memo - 4/2/2021
- New Panel
Family Memo - 03/19/2021
Good Afternoon Launch Families,
We hope you have been enjoying the longer days this week!
There are two important messages we want to uplift this week for our community:
Earlier this week, one of our families contacted us about a harrowing report from NBC news that she wanted us to address as a school. This report highlighted the demeaning behavior of a teacher that deeply disrespected a child. We want our families to hear loud and clear that Launch is a restorative justice school where staff operate from a place of LOVE and RESPECT for every student. We are shocked and saddened to hear that any child would have to go through such an experience. Thank you to the family for reaching out to us in partnership!
On Wednesday, we all woke up to news of another hate crime in our country - 8 people gunned down and 6 of them of Asian descent. While the motive has not been officially named, we know what it is: White supremacist racism. Launch stands with the Asian-American and Pacific Islander community. We are heartbroken by the killings in Georgia and are sending love and peace to all the Asian-American and Pacific Islanders in our community and beyond.
REPORT CARDS - CLOSING FRIDAY
Quarter 3 closes on Friday, March 26. Please ask your child if they have caught up on all their assignments - especially quizzes, tests and projects!
8TH GRADE GRADUATION AND PROM
WOOHOO we have an update!! Graduation and prom will both be held outside and socially distant on Friday, June 18th for all students and families who feel comfortable attending in person. Graduation will be live streamed to our website and there will be an additional virtual celebration for 8th grade students and families. Graduation ceremonies will be held by class in the morning and prom will take place for 8th graders in the afternoon. We will share more details soon! (Rain date - Tuesday, June 22nd)
Ms. Welch will share more information about graduation and prom with students on Monday during Community Meeting at SEL Afternoon.
SPRING BREAK ON THE HORIZON
Spring Break starts on Monday, March 29 and goes through Tuesday April 6. We will be back in session on Wednesday, April 7.
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners!
In Crew -
Efrat Kussell
Family Memo - 2/19/2021
Good Afternoon Launch Families,
Hope you are staying warm and safe during this snowy week!
NYSED FAMILY SURVEY
Thank you to all of our families who completed the survey. The New York State Board of Education wants to hear from our families. As a charter school, we will be judged based on parent participation in this survey. We need 100% of our families to fill it out. This will show the state that Launch families are committed to keeping Launch’s doors open.
Click here to complete the survey
If you have not already, please complete the survey TODAY and respond to this email to let us know you completed it. We will enter you into an appreciation raffle.
THE RESTORATIVE JUSTICE (RJ) PROJECT - FAMILY EVENT
We have a new date! Join us on WEDNESDAY, MARCH 3RD AT 6PM, FOR A PANEL DISCUSSION "The RJ Project"
In celebration of our Black History Month (#BLACKHISTORY365), the culture team will have an open discussion about our Restorative Justice Practices at launch. We want to ensure that our whole community understands the full meaning of RJ and why it's a part of Launch.
Ms. Welch will share additional information. We will share the link in the memo next week.
SATURDAY, MARCH 6 @ 1pm - SAVE THE DATE!!!
We will be culminating this month’s study of the Adinkra symbols and celebrating the excellence of the Black child in our Adinkrahene Chief of Symbols “Leadership and Greatness” celebration! Join us as we recap the highlights from the entire month and present new student performances! We will send out a link closer to the date.
PROMOTION-IN-DOUBT LETTERS
This has been a challenging year and as a community, we want to ensure that every Launch student is truly prepared to be promoted successfully to the next grade level. We are sending out letters on Monday. If your child has missed 10 or more school days or is failing two or more classes, please expect us to reach out. As always, we will collaborate with you to support your child’s success!
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners!
In Crew -
Efrat Kussell
Family Memo - 2/12/2021
Good Afternoon Launch Families,
Happy Friday to all! Can you believe it is already February break?
NEXT WEEK - NO SCHOOL - WINTER BREAK
We are on school break next week - Monday, February 16 through Friday, February 19. Teachers will not be available but our main office is open Tuesday-Friday.
We will REOPEN on Monday, February 22 with remote classes and in our pod program.
NYSED FAMILY SURVEY
Thank you to all of our families who completed the survey. The New York State Board of Education wants to hear from our families. As a charter school, we will be judged based on parent participation in this survey. We need 100% of our families to fill it out. This will show the state that Launch families are committed to keeping Launch’s doors open.
Click here to complete the survey
Please complete the survey TODAY! Do you have more than one child at Launch? Please complete the survey once for each child that attends Launch.
When you are finished with your survey click HERE or respond to this email to let us know and we will enter you into our appreciation raffle.
BLACK HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATION- WEEK 2 SANKOFA
Join Launch Clubs as they host week 2 of our Black History Celebration!!!!
Sankofa - "Return and get it, learn from your past" We will be tying in past Launch performances and enjoy a current performance of Launch students focused on the Sankofa theme.
WHAT: Launch Clubs Lead Week Two Black History Celebration
WHEN: TODAY - Friday, February 12th, at 3:15pm
ZOOM LINK: https://launchschool-org.zoom.us/j/92735395649?pwd=bFhoTnFsN1pWSVJPdDB6S1VxV3lWdz09
BLACK HISTORY ART CELEBRATION FROM MS. DINKINS
Just like the Sankofa Bird, our Black History Month Art Newsletter will remember the works of artists past, honor their influence on the present, and showcase the art of numerous Launch students-- our future.
CLICK HERE TO READ THE NEWSLETTER!
Stay tuned next week as we celebrate:
NEA ONNIM NO SUA A, “HE WHO DOES NOT KNOW CAN KNOW FROM LEARNING”
PROMOTION-IN-DOUBT LETTERS
This has been a challenging year and as a community, we want to ensure that every Launch student is truly prepared to be promoted successfully to the next grade level. We will be sending home letters in mid-February to inform families of any concerns we have. If your child has missed 10 or more school days or is failing two or more classes, please expect us to reach out. As always, we will collaborate with you to support your child’s success!
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners!
Have a safe and restful break, Launch Fam!
Efrat Kussell
Family Memo - 2/5/2021
Good Afternoon Launch Families,
Happy Friday to all! It’s been another busy week in the Launch community.
LUNAR NEW YEAR - ALL CLASSES ARE REMOTE
In observance of the Lunar New Year, on Friday, February 12th, all Launch classes will be remote. There will be no POD Program. Please note that while DOE schools are closed on Friday, Launch classes are IN SESSION and ATTENDANCE IS MANDATORY.
BLACK HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATION- WEEK 2 SANKOFA
Join Launch Clubs as they host week 2 of our celebration!!!!
Sankofa - "Return and get it, learn from your past"
We will be tying in past Launch performances and having a current performance of Launch students. We will have various Launch clubs present in a Sankofa theme.
Event Date: 3:15pm on Friday, February 12th
Event Link: CLICK HERE
BLACK HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATION NEWSLETTER FROM MS. DINKINS
Does art imitate life or does life imitate art? Through the years, art in all of its forms has served as a form of both expression and documentation for Black experience in America. From struggle to celebration, from pain to joy -- every aspect of the experience has been given immortal remembrance thanks to the work of Black artists. Just like the Sankofa Bird, our Black History Month Art Newsletter will remember the works of artists past, honor their influence on the present, and showcase the art of numerous Launch students-- our future.
STAY TUNED FOR THE PREMIERE OF OUR NEWSLETTER NEXT WEEK!
HERE are some additional activities and videos in celebration of Black History that you can share with your family released by Wide Open Schools and the New York City Department of Education.
PROGRESS REPORTS - COMING OUT MONDAY
Progress reports will be emailed out on Monday, February 8. We will also send home a robocall to let you know to check their email! Quarter 3 report cards will close on March 26.
PROMOTION-IN-DOUBT LETTERS
This has been a challenging year and as a community, we want to ensure that every Launch student is truly prepared to be promoted successfully to the next grade level. We will be sending home letters in mid-February to inform families of any concerns we have. If your child has missed 10 or more school days or is failing two or more classes, please expect us to reach out. As always, we will collaborate with you to support your child’s success!
MIDDLE SCHOOL MONDAY WITH YOUNG LIFE CROWN HEIGHTS
Join us for our first ever Middle School Monday hosted by Young Life Crown Heights! Head over to Zoom on Monday, February 8th at 7PM for fun, games, Jeopardy, and a chance to hang out with your middle school friends! Questions? Contact Erica Lara from Young Life at elara@younglifenyc.org. Future Middle School Monday dates include March 8th and April 12th.
Zoom Link: CLICK HERE.
MAP ASSESSMENT REPORTS FAMILY DROP-IN HOURS
Join us for MAP Assessment Report DROP-IN HOURS!
Members of our Leadership Team will be available to explain the report and answer any questions you have about your child’s score or focus areas.
Drop-in hours - come any time!
Tuesday, February 2nd: 8:00am - 10:00am AND 4:00pm - 6:00pm.
HERE is the link to join: https://launchschool-org.zoom.us/j/9925804667
Not available that day? Schedule an appointment at your convenience - email arubin@launchschool.org.
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners!
In Crew -
Efrat Kussell
Family Memo - 1/22/2021
Good Afternoon Launch Families,
Happy Friday to all! It’s been another busy week in the Launch community. We had a great PA meeting on Thursday evening and kicked off Quarter 3 with lots of high level content! We are mailing home our first whole school newsletter - please check your mailboxes for it!
This memo is FULL of important events and zoom links! Please read carefully!
PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCES
Parent Teacher Conferences will take place the WEEK OF FEBRUARY 1st over the phone. There are appointments available Monday-Friday at different points throughout the day. You are our partners and we can't wait to talk with you about your child’s progress and achievement.
ACTION REQUIRED! If you would like to schedule a conference, please CLICK HERE to complete a form with your availability. One of our staff members will call you next week to schedule the conference.
8TH GRADE HIGH SCHOOL OFFICE HOURS
We are at the end of the high school process and we want to make sure you feel supported!
Is your child applying to a performing arts school?
Is your child applying to a screened school with an additional essay, test or portfolio?
Do you have any final questions about your child’s list?
Do you want to apply to charter high school?
Join Ms. Rubin and Ms. Logan to get all of your questions answered!
Wednesday, January 27th. We will be available at two different times to accommodate your schedule: 8:15am - 9:00am OR 5:15pm - 6:15pm
THE RESTORATIVE JUSTICE (RJ) PROJECT
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3RD AT 6PM, JOIN LAUNCH CULTURE TEAM IN OUR PANEL DISCUSSION "The RJ Project"
Many of our families expressed that they wanted to know more about Restorative Justice at Launch. This is your chance! In celebration of our Black History Month, the culture will have an open discussion about our Restorative Justice practice at launch.
We want to ensure that our whole community understands the full meaning of RJ and why it's a part of Launch.
JOIN US IN SHARING THOUGHTS AND JOY AROUND LAUNCH'S RJ CULTURE!
Click here for the Zoom link!
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Ms. Welch at Jwelch@launchschool.org
MAP ASSESSMENT REPORTS
Thank you all for partnering with us to ensure your children showed up to the MAP test on time and did their best. Next week, MAP Assessment Reports will be mailed to families along with Q2 report cards.
Join us for MAP Assessment Report DROP-IN HOURS!
Members of our Leadership Team will be available to explain the report and answer any questions you have about your child’s score or focus areas.
Drop-in hours - come any time! Tuesday, February 2nd: 8:00am - 10:00am AND 4:00pm - 6:00pm. If you are not available that day, you can schedule an appointment at your convenience. Link is coming next week!
LAUNCH'S FAMILY ZOOM - THROWBACK WEDNESDAY
JOIN LAUNCH STAFF & FRIENDS!
Join Launch Staff & Friends!
Our One and Only DJ Maj will be live on Zoom, playing the best throwbacks of your time!
Wednesday, January 27th beginning at 6:15pm
If you want to listen to jams and connect with your children’s teaching team, this is the event for you! We will engage via chat and dance at the same time.
THIS IS A CELEBRATION YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS!!!
Join this zoom link at 6:15pm.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Ms. Welch at Jwelch@launchschool.org
With hopes for a beautiful weekend for all -
In Crew -
Efrat Kussell
Family Memo - 1/15/2021
Friday, January 15, 2021
Good Afternoon Launch Families,
We hope that this weekend offers you time for reflection and celebration of the birthday of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. One quote of Dr. King’s stands out to be particularly relevant to the Launch community this year and our focus on the idea of Ubuntu. He delivered it at a commencement address at Oberlin College in June of 1965:
“Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly. I can never be what I ought to be until you are what you ought to be. This is the interrelated structure of reality.”
We are only the school we are because of our families. Thank you for your partnership and support each and every day!
Launch is closed on Monday, January 18th in observance of Martin Luther King Day.
INAUGURATION DAY
Launch will have an alternative schedule on Wednesday, January 20 for our community to be able to watch the Presidential Inauguration at noon. We believe that it is important for our students to be aware of current events. As always, please feel free to join your child and the class in watching this national event.
REPORT CARDS
Quarter two report cards will be emailed to students and families on Monday, January 25. Please keep an eye out for the email from Jasmine Cardona in your inbox.
MAP ASSESSMENT REPORTS
Thank you all for partnering with us to ensure your children showed up to the MAP test on time and did their best. We will share results with you as soon as they are available. MAP Assessment Reports will be mailed to families the week of January 25th.
Join us for MAP Assessment Report DROP-IN HOURS! Members of our Leadership Team will be available to explain the report and answer any questions you have about your child’s score or focus areas.
Drop-in hours - come any time! Tuesday, February 2nd: 8:00am - 10:00am AND 4:00pm - 6:00pm. If you are not available that day, you can schedule an appointment at your convenience. Link to come!
LAUNCH PARENT ASSOCIATION MEETING
A note from Ms. Davis: Greetings Launch parents! Please join us for our PA meeting on Thursday, January 21st at 6:00pm. We will be showcasing community enrichment programs. Please bring your children as well. Here is the link from Ms. Davis to join the meeting.
LAUNCH'S ANNUAL BLACK HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATION
A message from Ms. Welch, our Black History Celebration Committee Chair:
WE ARE CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY IN EVERY SPACE OF OUR COMMUNITY THIS YEAR!!!! JOIN US!!! WE WILL BE KICKING OFF OUR FIRST WEEK OF FEBRUARY WITH
THE CELEBRATION OF UBUNTU!!! "I'AM, BECAUSE WE ARE - WE ARE, BECAUSE I AM"
CELEBRATING THE "BLACK CHILD”
LAUNCH WILL PRESENT A THEMED CELEBRATION EACH WEEK IN FEBRUARY. STAY TUNED FOR FURTHER INFORMATION IN THE NEXT FEW WEEKS!
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners!
With hopes for a peaceful and safe long weekend for all -
In Crew -
Efrat Kussell
Family Memo - 1/8/2020
Good Afternoon Launch Families,
This has been an emotionally exhausting week for so many of us and the days ahead will surely bring more news and updates to process as events unfold in our nation. We continue to reach out to our families and our students with unity and love. In the coming days and weeks, we will utilize our SEL circles and strategies to ensure that students have a forum to process their reactions, thoughts and questions and to stay engaged and current with what is happening in our country.
I want to take a moment to thank our incredible staff for their unwavering dedication to the Launch community, especially to our students. As ever, we must message to our students and our community our deep conviction that Black Lives Matter, that the double standards and inherent racism in our society are a shameful truth that we must actively work to dismantle, and most importantly, that Black and Brown lives are seen, celebrated, and loved at Launch. We hope that the days ahead bring peace. Come what may, we KNOW that our community will stand together and support each other. Please take good care of yourselves, Launch families, and reach out to us for support for anything - big or small.
MAP ASSESSMENT #2 IS NEXT WEEK
We will be administering the second of 3 MAP Growth Assessments on Tuesday, January 12 and Wednesday, January 13. This is a crucial and mandatory assessment that will help us determine if your child is making sufficient academic progress to be ready for the following grade. ALL Launch students are required to take the MAP Assessment.
Did you miss the family webinar this week? It’s OK! We recorded it. Click below to watch the recording.
Passcode: 7&NwpL%$
PROGRESS REPORTS and Q2 Grades
Progress Reports were emailed home this week both to parents and students. Please reach out if you did not receive your child’s progress report or if you have any questions. Grades for Quarter 2 close next Friday, January 15.
DO YOU KNOW ANY 5TH GRADERS?
WE HAVE A VIRTUAL INFORMATION SESSION NEXT WEEK!
Please help us spread the word about Launch. Share the information below with any prospective families.
What: Launch Virtual Information Session
When: Thursday, January 14th at 6:00pm
Where: Zoom - Here is the link: https://launchschool-org.zoom.us/j/91249628014
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners!
With hopes for a peaceful and safe weekend for all -
In Crew -
Efrat Kussell
Family Memo - 12/18/2020
Friday, December 18, 2020
Good Morning Launch Families,
This is our last memo of 2020 and we want to THANK each and every one of you for the tremendous support and collaboration you have offered our school community this year. 2020 has been a hard year in many ways, but the light and love of this community have shined bright throughout with your children at the center. #Ubuntu #LaunchPride
WINTER BREAK
- Launch will be closed for Winter Break from Monday, December 21st through Monday, January 4th.
- There will be no in-building or virtual classes and our main office will be closed.
- Students will return to school on Tuesday, January 5th and follow the usual Tuesday schedule.
PROGRESS REPORTS - COMING OUT JAN 4.
Progress reports will be emailed out on January 4. We will also send home a robocall to let you know to check their email! Quarter 2 report cards will close on January 15.
MAP ASSESSMENT #2 - MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
We will be administering the second of 3 MAP Growth Assessments on Tuesday, January 12 and Wednesday, January 13. This is a crucial and mandatory assessment that will help us determine if your child is making sufficient academic progress to be ready for the following grade. ALL Launch students are required to take the MAP Assessment.
Join us on Wednesday, January 6th at 6:00pm for a Family Webinar. We will review the MAP assessment and share tips for success for your child to improve their score from the first assessment. Save the date!
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners!
Enjoy a safe, healthy and joyous holiday season and we look forward to seeing you all in 2021!
In Crew,
Efrat Kussell
Family Memo - 12/11/2020
Friday, December 11, 2020
Good Morning Launch Families,
Happy Friday! We had another great week at Launch especially given all our parent engagement. Thank you to all the parents and families who attend events to support our school and each other. The Launch Parent Circle rounded out our week as parents shared and connected with each other. #Ubuntu #LaunchPride
WINTER BREAK
Launch will be closed for Winter Break from Monday, December 21st through Monday, January 1st. There will be no in-building or virtual classes and our main office will be closed. Students will return to school on Tuesday, December 5th and follow a typical Tuesday schedule. THERE IS SCHOOL ALL OF NEXT WEEK - 12/14-12/18.
PROGRESS REPORTS
Progress reports will be closing next Friday. We will be emailing copies of your child’s current grades by the start of the new year. PLEASE MAKE SURE YOUR CHILD COMPLETES ALL ASSIGNMENTS NEXT WEEK!
READING ZONE
Ask your Please make sure your child is attending Reading Zone class. It is a graded course and attendance is mandatory. Most reading zones are in the afternoon in the 1:45-3pm block.
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners!
In Crew,
Efrat Kussell
Family Memo - 12/4/2020
Friday, December 4, 2020
Good afternoon, Launch Families,
December is finally here! We hope that this final month, of what has been a trying year for all of us, will bring joy, peace and love to all our Launch families!
Progress Reports
Progress reports closed this afternoon. We will be emailing copies of your child’s current grades on Monday to both parents and students. Please reach out to teachers with any questions.
SUPPORT YOUR CHILD’S ACADEMIC SUCCESS
SUPPLIES: Please check with your child to ensure they have the right supplies to use for their classes - notebooks, calculators, etc. At the start of the year, we sent home these items for every student and some are reporting to have misplaced these items. Please ensure your child has a notebook and a pen or pencil to take notes in their classes.
CAMERAS ON and ENGAGING WITH LESSONS: Based on our survey, almost 100% of families are aware of our cameras on norm. Please check in with your child to ensure their camera is on and that they are responding to teachers questions. We will be sending home a mailing with our Engagement Norms next week.
BACKDROPS: For those who requested privacy backdrops for zoom in our family survey - they are in the works! We are partnering with Publicolor to create beautiful backdrop screens to ensure cameras are on and we will reach out to let you know when they are ready for delivery!
Reading Zone
Please make sure your child is attending Reading Zone class. It is a graded course and attendance is mandatory. Most reading zones are in the afternoon in the 1:45-3pm block.
PA Parent Circle
It’s an informal conversation in a safe space for parents.
Thursday, December 10th 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Click HERE to join. Please see the flyer attached.
Prospective Family Virtual Information Session
Do you know any 5th grade families? Do you have a 5th grader?
Please share the information below about our Virtual Information Session next week.
Launch Virtual Information Session
Wednesday, December 9th • 6:00pm - 7:00pm
If you refer any family who applies online, please let Ms. Rubin know so we can enter you into the raffle for awesome thank you prizes. Here is the link to apply.
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners!
In Crew,
Efrat Kussell
Family Memo - 11/20/2020
Friday, November 20, 2020
Good morning Launch Families,
Thank you, families, for supporting your child this week as the DOE closed buildings. We know this had a big impact on family schedules and we see you working with your children to make sure they don’t miss a beat! #Dedication #Collaboration
Updates on DOE Closures - LAUNCH REMOTE PROGRAM OPEN
The Mayor’s office has said they will share a system-wide plan for closures prior to the Thanksgiving Holiday. We will report out their guidance and plans as soon as we hear. At this time, Launch is following the guidance of the DOE - if DOE buildings are open, our pod program will also be open. For the time being, all DOE buildings remain closed.
Grab-and-Go Meal Pickup
All NYC students can pick up three grab-and-go meals at any DOE school building daily between 9:00am-12:00pm.
SCHEDULE THE WEEK OF NOVEMBER 23RD
MONDAY - regular class schedule
TUESDAY - SLCs and independent assignments due to earn attendance credit
WEDNESDAY - SLCs and independent assignments due to earn attendance credit
THURSDAY - NO SCHOOL
FRIDAY - NO SCHOOL
MONDAY (11/30) - BACK TO SCHOOL - Regular Virtual Class Schedule
Family Survey
If you are not one of the 83 families who have completed our Family Survey, please take a few minutes to do it now. Your feedback helps us be our best! Families who complete the survey will be entered into a raffle to win exciting prizes including wireless headphones, a gift certificate for delivery from a local restaurant or a Launch sweatsuit!! For the survey, CLICK HERE.
Student Led Conferences
Please take a moment to check today to ensure you know when your child’s conference is and that you have the zoom link to attend. If you do not, please reach out to his/her academic advisor or Ms. Rubin so we can make sure you are set up for success.
Congratulations!
Congratulations to the families of Keira Chance, Zy'ni Scarborough and Faith McCollom who won the Thanksgiving basket lotto! Thank you to 7th Grade parent, Ms. Gamble and #$BreGlamCosmetics, for supplying our PA Thanksgiving parcels to the 3 Launch families. #Ubuntu
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners!
In Crew,
Efrat Kussell
Family Memo - 11/13/2020
Friday, November 13, 2020
Good Morning Launch Families,
We hope our Friday memo finds you doing well on this rainy day! As the weather shifts to Winter and cold and flu season, we are seeing the Covid-19 rates go up in New York City. We urge our Launch community to stay safe, mask up and stay socially distant at this time.
CALLING ALL FAMILIES - LAUNCH FAMILY SURVEY!
Launch families, we care about your voice, input and feedback! Please let us know how we are doing by filling out this survey. Getting feedback from you early helps ensure that we can adjust our program to suit the needs of all families.
Survey linked HERE.
STUDENT LED CONFERENCE FAMILY WEBINAR
SLCs are a cornerstone of the Launch program and we want to talk with you about them!
If you want to know more about SLCs - what they are, why we do them and how we are working with your child - join us on Monday, November 16th at 5:00pm for a family webinar. Here is the link to join. If you have not yet scheduled your child’s SLC, or your don’t know when it is please call Ms. Rubin: 718-715-1191.
PARENT ASSOCIATION MEETING
A note from Ms Davis: The Launch Parent Association encourages and equips families to be active participants in the social, emotional, and educational life of their children. The next Parent Association meeting will be on Thursday, November 19th at 6:00pm. Topics will include managing finances in the time of Covid & self-care. Here is the link to join.
SCHEDULE THE WEEK OF NOVEMBER 23RD
MONDAY - regular class schedule
TUESDAY - SLCs and independent assignments due to earn attendance credit
WEDNESDAY - SLCs and independent assignments due to earn attendance credit
THURSDAY - NO SCHOOL
FRIDAY - NO SCHOOL
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners!
In Crew,
Efrat Kussell
Family Memo - 11/6/2020
Friday, November 6, 2020
Good Afternoon Launch Families,
We hope this email finds you well after a big election week. Every student had the opportunity to learn about the election process and discuss the current state of our election this week. We will continue to ensure that Launch students are aware of the results and the process and provide opportunities for student-centered discussion about their thoughts and feelings.
VETERANS DAY - NO SCHOOL
School is closed on Wednesday, November 11th for Veterans Day. There will be no in-building OR remote classes.
LITERACY NEWSLETTER
We are excited to present our first STUDENT-CREATED literacy newsletter, packed with tips to keep your child reading during distance learning, book reviews, and much more including our SAY HER NAME poetry contest! HERE is the google form for your child to submit a poem to the contest. Submissions are due by Monday, November 24!
REPORT CARDS
Report cards were emailed to families this week and a copy was mailed to your home. Please take time to read your child’s report card and each teacher’s comment. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.
STUDENT LED CONFERENCE - FAMILY WEBINAR
Student Led Conferences are coming up! You should have already heard from your child’s advisor to schedule a conference for Tuesday, November 24th or Wednesday November 25th.
If you want to know more about SLCs - what they are, why we do them and how we are working with your child - join us on November 16th at 5:00pm for a family webinar.
HOLIDAY FOOD GIVEAWAY 2020 - TOMORROW
Ms. Gamble, parent of a 7th grader, has organized a food giveaway tomorrow, November 7th!
Where: St. John’s Park - Troy Avenue between Bergan and St. Marks Place
When: Tomorrow, November 7th • 3:00pm - 6:00pm
Masks are a must
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners!
In Crew,
Efrat Kussell
Family Memo - 10/30/2020
Friday, October 30, 2020
Good Afternoon Launch Families,
This is the last weekend before our national presidential election. We encourage all Launch families to get out the vote! Vote early this weekend or vote on Election Day, Tuesday, 11/3. If you haven't had time to find out all you need to know about voting, or had some unanswered questions, here is a resource to better assist you, directly from the voting information center.
Election Day - ½ Day for Students
All students learn from home. Periods 1, 2 and 3 only. 9am-1pm.
MAP Assessment Report Webinar Recording & Resources
Thank you to all families who attended the webinar! If you were not able to attend, and would like additional information about how to read your child’s MAP Assessment Report that was emailed to you, the recording is posted to our website. Additionally, we posted links to Math and ELA websites where your child can practice skills in different instructional areas. Visit the family resources page of our website HERE for the recording and resources.
PARENT-STUDENT-TEACHER CIRCLE - THIS Monday, 11/2 at 5pm
Building Relationships, Engagement, and the Use of Cameras In Remote Classrooms
Join us for a collaborative circle on Monday, November 2nd at 5pm to bring together teachers, parents, and students to discuss the use of cameras in virtual classes and how to effectively build trusting relationships and engagement. If you would like to attend please reply to this email or contact Ms. Rubin- arubin@launchschool.org and we will send you the link.
Zoom Authentication
THIS TUESDAY, 11/2, is the very last day your child can authenticate their Launch zoom account. Most student have done so, but *PLEASE* check in with your child to ensure they have clicked into an email called “Zoom Invitation Email” and authenticated their name. This is a SAFETY measure we are taking to make sure our classes are free of zoom bombers.
After Monday, students who are not authenticated will LOSE ACCESS to zoom which will affect their attendance.
If you have questions about whether or not your child is on zoom please contact Alexis Rubin arubin@launchschool.org or Efrat Kussell ekussell@launchschool.org.
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners!
In Crew,
Efrat Kussell
Family Memo - 10/22/2020
Friday, October 22, 2020
Good Afternoon Launch Families,
Here are our weekly announcements:
PARENT-STUDENT-TEACHER CIRCLE - Monday, 11/2 at 5pm
Building Relationships, Engagement, and the Use of Cameras In Remote Classrooms
We are committed to ensuring that every student at Launch has the strongest academic experience and that we are building a culture of ENGAGEMENT, MOTIVATION and ACHIEVEMENT. We are holding a collaborative circle on Monday, November 2nd at 5pm to bring together teachers, parents, and students to discuss the use of cameras in classes and how to effectively build trusting relationships and engagement. If you would like to attend please reply to this email or contact Ms. Rubin- arubin@launchschool.org.
MAP Assessment Results Family Webinar
You will soon be receiving an email with your child’s MAP Assessment Report. Join us on Zoom to review the report and learn how to make the most of the data. Please have the report accessible at the Webinar.
When: Wednesday, October 28th at 5:00pm
Where: ZOOM: https://launchschool-org.zoom.us/j/5112556350
Virtual Information Session
Please help us spread the word about our first Virtual Information Session next Thursday at 6pm for the year to prospective families. All info is on the recruitment events page of our website. Don’t forget to let Ms. Rubin know if you refer a family, we will send you a Launch thank you gift of your choice.
Report Cards
Report cards will be both mailed and emailed home early the week of November 2nd.
CELEBRATION
Congratulations to the following students who were celebrated at our Community Meetings this week for being recognized as Students of the Month! We are proud of your dedication and achievement!
6th Grade |
7th Grade |
8th Grade |
|||
WHO |
FOR WHAT |
WHO |
FOR WHAT |
WHO |
FOR WHAT |
Jadiyah Clarke |
Science |
Aaron Fisher Kimana Ward-Mitchell |
Math |
Dwayne Williams Afsu Thomas |
Math |
Keira Chance |
Math |
Chris Leon |
ELA |
Taznique Mazyck Anafrannette Vargas |
Social Studies |
Tatiana Centeno |
ELA |
K-Ci Walker |
Science |
Maurice Campbell Glendon Wilson |
ELA |
Saquan Spence Omarie Boston |
SEL |
Janiece Padilla |
Artist |
Gershom Durant |
PE |
Levell Hayes |
York College |
Danielle McWilliams |
SEL |
Elijah Sheppard |
SEL |
Taniah Reid |
Medgar Evers |
Diana Mota Danielle McWilliams Alina Vega |
Most Improved |
Neil Musgrove Anthony Aybar Ja’Nieke Williams Hakeem Amao Princess Aurelin Jomaine McKenzie Kiiah Holder |
Most Improved |
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners!
In Crew,
Efrat Kussell
Family Memo -10/16/2020
Friday, October 16, 2020
Good Afternoon Launch Families,
We hope you are all well and looking forward to a good weekend!
Grades Close Next Friday - 10/23
Our first quarter is coming to an end! Please ask your child if they have any quizzes or tests left to take. Students need to attend office hours or communicate with their teachers to make sure they are getting ALL their work in.
This year we are factoring in a participation grade to the report card. This includes:
-
being active on the chat
-
mic-ing up
-
completing collaboration boards or padlets
-
Submitting work
-
emailing teachers
-
attending office hours
-
attending all classes
-
**Having a camera on is encouraged but not required
Mailing to your Home - Did you receive it?
Did you receive your child’s individualized schedule and school year calendar in the mail? Please let us know if you still need a copy!
MAP Assessment Results Family Webinar
Join us with your child’s assessment report in hand to review the report and learn how to make the most of the data.
When: Wednesday, October 28th at 5:00pm
Where: ZOOM: https://launchschool-org.zoom.us/j/5112556350
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners!
In Crew,
Family Memo - 10/9/2020
Friday, October 9, 2020
Good Afternoon Launch Families,
Thank you for another wonderful week at Launch and for supporting your child in taking the MAP Growth assessment. We are eager to share the results with you in the weeks ahead.
Monday, October 12 - NO SCHOOL
Monday is Indigenous People’s Day.
There is no virtual or in-person school for students.
We will be back in session on Tuesday. Students should log into their TUESDAY classes.
Launch In the News
Launch is in the news! Our innovative Distance Teaching model was published in Chalkbeat this week. While many schools are just getting started with the school year, Launch students are thriving! Read the article here.
Mailing to your Home - LOOK FOR IT!
We are mailing out a copy of your child’s schedule as well as the school year calendar today.
Please look for it early next week.
Attendance is MANDATORY for ALL classes and affects the weekly participation grade. Please note that students DO EARN GRADES in Reading Zone, SEL Circles, Art and Phys Ed. Failure to attend these classes will negatively impact your child’s grade.
Launch Parent Association Meeting
Form Ms. Davis: The Launch Charter School Parent Association will have its second meeting for 2020 on Wednesday October 14, 2020 @ 6pm
Topics will be on PA Structure, the importance of voting, and a special surprise.
All are invited, please find the link below.
https://launchschool-org.zoom.us/j/5112556350
FAMILIES - WE NEED YOUR HELP!
The Launch Application for 2021-2022 is open
Do you know any 5th grade families? Please help us spread the word about Launch!
We are hosting a safe, socially distant Open House next Friday, October 16th in the schoolyard and several virtual events this fall.
If you refer a family to attend the event, or apply on our website we will thank you with a FREE LAUNCH T-SHIRT and MASK. Please contact Ms. Rubin to join our Parent Ambassador Team and help us recruit. It’s a fun way to connect with others and give back to the Launch community. arubin@launchschool.org • 718-715-1191
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners!
In Crew,
Efrat Kussell
Head of School
Family Memo - 10/2/2020
Friday, October 2, 2020
Good Morning Launch Families,
Thank you to all families who participated in our “Phone call Parent-Teacher Conferences”! We appreciate your input and hope that we were able to answer your questions. Please reach out to your child’s academic advisor if you were unable to connect so far or reach out to Ms. Rubin if you need assistance (718-715-1191).
Friday, October 9th and Monday, October 12 - NO SCHOOL
Friday is a staff development day for teachers. Monday is Indigenous People’s Day.
There is no virtual or in-person school for students.
MAP Growth Assessment:
This week is the MAP Growth Assessment for ALL students.
MAP Growth is a trusted and innovative assessment for measuring achievement and growth in math and reading. It’s a computer-based assessment that students can take from home.
It is important that your child take the test 100% on their own.
MATH: Wednesday, October 7th at 9:00am
ELA: Thursday, October 8th at 9:00am
Students MUST sign in on time.
If you missed the MAP Family Webinar, HERE is the recording. Passcode: WXc2=?Rd
HERE is the MAP Assessment Family Resource website.
Join us for Family Book Club Monday evening
Our family book club kick-off event is Monday, October 5, at 6:30 pm. No reading is required for the first meeting. Zoom LINK Meeting ID: 881 045 8985 Passcode: 123
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners!
In Crew,
Efrat Kussell
Head of School
Family Memo - 9/11/2020
Friday, September 11th, 2020
Good Afternoon Launch Families,
Thank you for supporting your child through the first 2 days of Quarter 1! It is hard to believe that our middle schoolers were not yet born on September 11, 2001 - but 19 years have already passed. Our hearts go out to anyone who was impacted by this tragic event, and we are strengthened by the memory of how our country and New York City community came together in unity and healing.
This message is chock full of helpful information - please take time to read it!
STAY IN TOUCH!!
Please opt in to receive text messages from the Launch Main Office! Text "yes" to this code: 67587
Quarter 1 Has Begun!
- Your child received his/her schedule that will be consistent for all of Quarter 1.
- Every school day is from 9am - 3pm.
- There are 5 periods a day. There are 30 minute breaks between each period.
- Attendance at all 5 periods is mandatory!
- Our first progress reports close on Friday, September 25.
Grading Policy
Launch’s Grading Policy is available HERE. Some teachers have already shared it with their students. Please review the policy and talk with your child about it.
IMPORTANT: 30% of your child’s grade is based on classwork and participation. This means that your child should be logged in to all classes on time each day and participating throughout the period - in the chat, by mic-ing up - and by completing all classwork assignments. Students will receive a weekly participation grade and have their classwork assignments graded as well.
Family Survey from the Counseling Team
If you have not already, please complete the survey from our counseling team. Please complete as soon as possible.
Virtual Back to School Night Slide Decks
If you were not able to make it to Back to School Night last week, please take time to review the slide deck for your child’s grade level. You can find all slide decks on the Family Resources page of our website.
Virtual Book Club FOR FAMILIES
A message from our Literacy Specialist, Ms. Leake: We are hosting our first ever Launch family virtual book club! Join us to read and discuss QUEENIE by Candice Carty-Williams. This is an opportunity for us to come together, have fun, and make connections as a Launch community. Want to know more? Please complete this interest form.
Socially Distant Supply and Uniform Pick Up - RAIN OR SHINE!
NEXT WEEK in the school yard on Bergen
Everyone must have a mask - to pick up supplies - we will have disposable masks available. Families are encouraged to accompany their children. (You can also send your child to pick up their materials on their own.)
Please use this form (UNIFORM ORDER FORM) to pre-order your uniforms for pick up on the week of 9/14.
For families who have an OLD Launch Chromebooks, please bring them back.
Grade |
Date and Time |
6th Grade |
Tuesday, 9/15 from 1-3pm |
7th Grade |
Thursday, 9/17 from 1-3pm |
8th Grade |
Monday, 9/14 from 1-3pm |
Multi-Subject Students |
Tuesday, 9/15 from 1-3pm |
Reminder - the MEMO is uploaded to our website each week!
If you would like to read this email in a language other than English, you can always read it on our website in the language of your choice.
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners!
In Crew,
Efrat Kussell
Head of School
Family Memo - 9/4/2020
Friday, September 4th, 2020
Good Afternoon Launch Families,
We hope you are getting ready for a wonderful three day weekend! Thank you for supporting your child throughout our Welcome Weeks and special thanks to all the families who joined us for our amazing kickoff PA meeting last night!
THERE IS NO SCHOOL THIS MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 7.
SEE YOU ON TUESDAY FOR THE FIRST DAY OF STAR TESTING IN ELA!
Virtual Back to School Afternoon:
Join us next Wednesday, September 9th to meet your child’s teachers and learn about their classes this school year.
Presentation option 1 - 4:15pm - 4:45pm
Presentation option 2 - 5:00pm- 5:30pm
Click HERE or download the PDF document attached for more information and links.
New Chromebook Update!
Good news! Our chromebooks are shipping out! All families should receive their chromebook by Friday, September 11th.
If you have any questions, please reach out to Camille Schlafer, our Director of Finance and Operations, cschlafer@launchschool.org.
Socially Distant Supply and Uniform Pick Up:
Week of 9/14 in the school yard on Bergen
Everyone must have a mask - to pick up supplies - we will have disposable masks available. Families are encouraged to accompany their children. (You can also send your child to pick up their materials on their own.)
Please use this form (UNIFORM ORDER FORM) to pre-order your uniforms for pick up on the week of 9/14.
For families who have an OLD Launch Chromebooks, please bring them back.
Grade |
Date and Time |
6th Grade |
Tuesday, 9/15 from 1-3pm |
7th Grade |
Thursday, 9/17 from 1-3pm |
8th Grade |
Monday, 9/14 from 1-3pm |
Multi-Subject Students |
Tuesday, 9/15 from 1-3pm |
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners!
In Crew,
Efrat Kussell
Head of School
9/1 Important Update - Clarification of Mayor's Announcement
Tuesday, September 1, 2020
Good Afternoon Launch Families,
You may have heard that the Mayor announced today that schools will only be allowed to start in-person instruction on Monday, September 21.
What this means for Launch is:
1) Our in-school supervision program can only begin on 9/21. (We will send a follow up to families who have signed up.)
2) Our calendar will remain AS IS. Quarter 1 will begin with 9-3pm classes on 9/10.
2) All Outdoor SEL Afternoons will begin in person on Monday 9/21.
3) Socially Distant Supply and Uniform Pick Up:
Week of 9/14 in the school yard on Bergen
Everyone must have a mask - to pick up supplies - we will have disposable masks available. Families are encouraged to accompany their children.
(You can send your child to pick up their materials on their own.)
Grade |
Date and Time |
6th Grade |
Tuesday, 9/15 from 1-3pm |
7th Grade |
Thursday, 9/17 from 1-3pm |
8th Grade |
Monday, 9/14 from 1-3pm |
Multi-Subject Students |
Tuesday, 9/15 from 1-3pm |
*Reminder - Please use this form (UNIFORM ORDER FORM) to pre-order your uniforms.
We will assemble your pre-ordered items and prepare them for you for pickup and payment. On site we accept cash, debit, and credit cards.
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners!
In Crew,
Efrat Kussell
Head of School
Family Memo - 8/28/2020
Friday, August 28
Good Afternoon Launch Families,
What an exciting and engaging week! We have loved meeting your children and beginning to form our classroom communities. Our attendance has gotten higher and higher each day! Thank you, families, for supporting your children as they take on this new school year and for reaching out to our staff to begin building the vital home-school partnership to engage and motivate all our students to achieve at the highest levels!
Save the Date: Virtual Back To School Night on SIGNALWIRE
Wednesday, September 9th 4:00pm - 5:30pm (drop in anytime!)
EXCITING NEWS: Launch is partnering with a platform called SignalWire to make all “LIVE” meetings and classes smoother and easier. It will be a single login site where students and families will be able to click into their classes in our virtual school building!
We are premiering our Virtual School at Back-to-School Night and will share a link next week!
Here are a few things you will be able to do at Back to School Night:
- Check out our new Virtual School
- Meet with teachers and culture team members
- Sign up to join the Parent Association
- Log on to the Alma Parent Portal to be able to see grades and attendance
- Get tech support if you need it, submit forms and get your questions answered
- Help your child find their first period class in our Virtual School so they are prepared for the first
day of academic classes
- Meet our in-building pod leaders for students who will come to the building
- And much more!
Uniform Sales Reminder
Launch shirts are required for all in-person meetings and strongly recommended for virtual lessons.
IN-PERSON UNIFORM SALES: Uniforms will be available for socially-distanced pickup and payment in the School Yard on the following Outdoor SEL Afternoon Days:
Monday, 9/14 from 1pm-3pm
Tuesday, 9/15 from 1pm-3pm
Thursday, 9/17 from 1pm-3pm
Please use this form (UNIFORM ORDER FORM) to pre-order your uniforms.
We will assemble your pre-ordered items and prepare them for you for pickup and payment. On site we accept cash, debit, and credit cards.
24/7 UNIFORM PURCHASE: You can purchase uniforms online directly from our vendor. The League Brand
CHROMEBOOKS - DELIVERY DELAYED BY MANUFACTURER
All Launch students will receive a new chromebook laptop. Computers will be mailed directly to homes. Computers should arrive at your home by Friday, September 11. If your child does not currently have a computer or tablet to log on to lessons, please reach out to Camille Schlafer (cschlafer@launchschool.org) so we can set you up with what you need.
SCHOOL SCHEDULE - NEXT WEEK and BEYOND
Next Week:
Monday-Friday 8/31-9/4 - SCHOOL IN SESSION - WELCOME WEEKS - 9am-1pm classes
Beyond:
Monday, 9/7 - LABOR DAY - NO SCHOOL
Tuesday 9/8 - SCHOOL IN SESSION - 9am-1pm classes, short ELA STAR assessment
Wednesday, 9/9 - SCHOOL IN SESSION - 9am-1pm classes, short MATH STAR assessment
Thursday, 9/10 - FIRST DAY OF QUARTER 1! - 9am-3pm classes,
***in-building supervision begins
***All students will receive their set daily academic schedules by 9/9
Friday, 9/11 - SCHOOL IN SESSION - 9am-3pm classes
Week of 9/14 - ALL OUTDOOR SEL AFTERNOONS BEGIN IN-PERSON
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners!
In Crew,
Efrat Kussell
Head of School
Family Memo - 8/21/2020
Friday, August 21st
Good Afternoon Launch Families,
We hope this email finds you well and in good spirits! We have had a great week at Launch preparing to welcome our entire community back on Monday! This year’s focus goal is to cultivate a culture of engagement, motivation, and achievement for ALL Launch students. We are confident that with you as our partners, we will achieve this goal!
If your child does not have the link to log in for the first day of school on Monday please ask them to check their Launch email first. If you need support please contact your child’s teacher or Alexis Rubin at arubin@launchschool.org or 718-715-1191.
Uniform Sales
Uniforms will be available for purchase in the School Yard on all Outdoor Activity Days the week of September 14th. (Monday 9/14, Tuesday 9/15 and Thursday 9/17). Please be prepared to wait on a socially distanced line. To make uniform sales as efficient as possible, please use this form to pre-order your uniforms. We will assemble your items and prepare them for you. On site we accept cash, debit, and credit cards. UNIFORM ORDER FORM
If you do not feel comfortable coming to the building, you can purchase uniforms online directly from our vendo. The League Brand
Launch shirts will be required for all in-person meetings and strongly encouraged for virtual lessons.
Lunch Forms
At Launch, we use the School Food services provided by the NYC Department of Education for breakfast and lunch. In order to support Launch with funding, we need all families to complete a Family Income Inquiry Form provided by DOE School Food. This form is completely confidential.
Please fill out your form by September 1, 2020. If you have any questions, please reach out to Jasmine Cardona, Operations Manager at Launch: jcardona@launchschool.org or at 718-715-0547.
Computer Update
All Launch students will receive a new chromebook laptop. Our computer vendor will mail computers directly to all families' homes because it is the fastest way to get it to you. Computers should arrive at your home by September 4. If your child does not have a computer or tablet to log on to Welcome Weeks activities, please reach out to Camille Schlafer (cschlafer@launchschool.org) so we can try to set you up with what you need.
In-Building Supervision
For families who have opted into In-building supervision - we will begin supervision services on: Thursday, September 10th. Our registration period is now closed. If you have questions, contact Alexis Rubin directly: arubin@launchschool.org or 718-715-1191.
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners! Can’t wait to see everyone online on August 24! Til then, stay safe and healthy!
In Crew,
Efrat Kussell
Head of School
Family Memo - 8/14/2020
Friday, August 14th
Good Afternoon Launch Families,
We loved meeting with so many of you over the course of this week and being together with our community! We hope this email finds everyone gearing up for a wonderful weekend and getting ready to start the school year with us in just a little over a week!
This email is chock full of information - we wanted to capture all of your requests. If you would like to read this email in a language other than English please click HERE and scroll down to Family Memos and search for “Family Memo, Friday, August 14”.
As mentioned in our family webinars, please note that we are linking a lot of info straight to our website. Additionally, please know that we are doing our utmost to keep you up-to-date with any news we hear from the State and City around rules and regulations. Given all the uncertainties, we ask that you bear with us if plans have to change.
2020-2021 SCHOOL YEAR CALENDAR!
As promised, we are sharing our school year calendar with you today! Although the DOE has yet to release its calendar, at Launch, we pride ourselves on clear and consistent communication and wanted to give all families a sense of our plans for the year.
A few important notes:
-
The calendar is SUBJECT TO CHANGE based on the progression of COVID-19 and updates from the State Board of Education.
-
We commit to keeping you updated as soon as we hear of changes we must implement
-
The State has not released any information about State Testing this year. We will keep you posted as soon as we hear news.
-
To that end, we have not yet finalized additional Practice State Test assessments in Quarter 2 and Quarter 3. We plan on updating those dates and sharing with you by the end of Quarter 1.
REMOTE FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL - 9AM on Monday, August 24
All students will start school at 9am on Monday, August 24! We are thrilled to welcome your children back in their new grade level and especially excited to meet all of our new-to-Launch students in 6th, 7th and 8th grade!
Your child’s teachers will send a meeting link straight to your child’s email address to the first day of school later on next week. Please remind your child that attendance will be taken IN CLASS and that being present in LIVE classes this year is mandatory. We will send out a robocall to all families to notify you when the first day of school link goes out.
WELCOME WEEKS - Monday, 8/24 - Wednesday, 9/9 - 9AM-1PM Daily - ATTENDANCE MANDATORY
This year, we are beginning the first 2.5 weeks of school with a WELCOME WEEKS program. Rather than diving straight into academics, students will have a chance to get to meet their teachers and classmates, gain fluency and comfortability with live lessons and routines, and build school pride through a series of meaningful lessons and activities. Our academic quarter will begin on September 10. Attending the Welcome Weeks is mandatory for all Launch students and absences will be counted. If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to our main office team.
***IMPORTANT UPDATE*** - As of today at noon, we were informed by the Department of Health that we will not be able to convene in the school yard until school buildings open in full on September 10. This means that ALL Welcome Week programming will be remote.
Although we are disappointed to hear a reversal on this decision, Launch always adheres to ALL health and safety guidelines and we will simply have to wait a little longer until we can meet your child outdoors.
REMOTE-HYBRID MODEL
Our model this year is a remote- hybrid model which means all academic classes will be taught online. Teachers will teach from home and students will attend classes on the computer. If you elected to have your child come to Launch for in-building supervision, s/he will attend classes from the building, but still on the computer. Please see below for more information about that program.
Our remote-hybrid program has some additional features we are excited to share:
- 3 live lessons per day
- Weekly Social Emotional Learning Circles
- Weekly outdoor activities including team building, art and physical education for families who feel comfortable sending their child
- Individualized academic support including small group instruction, teacher office hours and Reading Zone
- Weekly clubs that feature a wide range of activities for students
IN-BUILDING SUPERVISION - 8AM-3PM - STARTING THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10:
If you choose to have your child come to the building each day, s/he will be part of a learning pod. Your child will have their own desk and materials in the same classroom each day. S/he will be supervised by a Launch staff member, but will attend all classes, small groups and office hours virtually on their computer.
If you would like your child to be part of our in-building program you must complete a required registration from. We will email the form to you on Monday, August 17th and it must be complete by Wednesday August 19th at 5:00pm. Your child will not be able to come to the building until the form is complete.
COMPUTER UPDATE
All Launch students will receive a new chromebook laptop. Our computer vendor will mail computers directly to all families' homes because it is the fastest way to get it to you. Computers should arrive at your home by August 31st. If your child does not have a computer or tablet to log on to Welcome Week activities, please reach out to Camille Shlafer (cavena@launchschool.org) so we can try to set you up with what you need.
UNIFORM
The Launch uniform this year is a Launch shirt or sweatshirt. Launch shirts are required for all in-person activities and strongly recommended for virtual lessons. For in-person activities, students can wear any comfortable and school appropriate shorts or pants. Students should wear sneakers to be prepared for outdoor physical activities.
FAMILY RESOURCES
For more information about uniform, meals, transportation and more please visit the family resources page of our website.
UPCOMING EVENTS
- If you missed the Back-to-School Webinar, please watch the video recording on our website.
- Parent Association Meeting - Restorative Justice Explained
Thursday, September 3rd on Zoom
- Virtual Back to School Night
Wednesday, September 9th 4:00pm - 5:30pm
Please free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners! Can’t wait to see everyone online on August 24! Til then, stay safe and healthy!
In Crew,
Efrat Kussell
Head of School
Family Memo - 4/2/2021
New Panel
Good Afternoon Launch Families,
We hope you are all enjoying the start of Spring! We have several important announcements this week.
REPORT CARDS
Quarter 3 report cards will be emailed to families and to students on Monday afternoon, April 12. We are also mailing paper copies of report cards to your homes. Please look for them in the mail by the end of the week!
SEL and PHYS ED
We love having Launch Families join in on our grade level Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Sessions each week. This week we are pleased to share an interview with two amazing African American women continuing our commitment to celebrating history everyday, join us to learn about their journey in film, directing and producing and always a little fun. Come and be a part of it! Ask your student for the link to join that is emailed to them the day of the sessions.
Outdoor Afternoons will begin again the week of April 19! It’s a great time for your child to come to our schoolyard, socialize with their peers and staff members and do activities together. All students are encouraged to attend!
When does your child have SEL Outdoor Afternoon? Beginning April 19th:
- 6th Grade & MS - Tuesdays at 1pm
- 7th Grade - Thursdays at 1pm
- 8th Grade - Mondays at 1pm
BOOK CLUB OPPORTUNITY FOR STUDENTS!
Greenlight Bookstore is hosting a "Young Readers Virtual Book Group" for students between the ages of 9-12.
The next meeting is May 18 6:00 PM and the book being discussed is Song for a Whale by Lynne Kelly. The book is available on the Launch Bookshelf now!
This event is being led (virtually!) by bookseller Jackie, our Young Readers Book Group meets quarterly and is geared toward kids ages 9 to 12, reading and discussing great contemporary and classic chapter books. Parents are welcome (but not required) to attend. Email Jackie at jackieschicker@gmail.com for more information.
SUMMER OPPORTUNITIES NIGHT - MAY 12TH - 5:30pm
Save the date for a virtual event you won’t want to miss! Launch is partnering with a number of community based organizations to provide summer opportunities for students! There will be something for everyone and full scholarships will be available to any families interested.
We have already secured a partnership with Cas Prep - which will be working with rising 7th and 8th graders (as well as incoming 6th graders). Students going into 6th and 7th grade will participate in academics of their upcoming grade level as well as enrichment. Students entering 8th grade will participate in Cas Prep’s distinguished Specialized High School Exam Prep program which will also get them ready for 8th grade! If you are already interested in Cas Prep, please contact: Alexis Rubin at arubin@launchschool.org or 718-715-1191.
FLOYD BENNETT FIELD COMMUNITY WORKSHOP - APRIL 14TH
What - Launch Floyd Bennett Field Family Community Workshop
When - Wednesday, April 14th 5:30pm - 7:00pm (there will be an opportunity to leave at 6:15pm for families who need to)
Where - Register on Zoom: https://launchschool-org.zoom.
PARENT ASSOCIATION POPCORN FUNDRAISER
This year the Parent Association has decided to hold a fundraiser with Double Good Popcorn. Double Good is the Chicago based handmade popcorn company. Why Double Good?
- First because whatever we sell we are able to keep 50% of the profit.
- Secondly because all orders can be placed online during a four day sell and popcorn will be shipped directly to whom orders it.
Our online store will be open from Friday May 14, 2021 at 9:00am to Tuesday May 18, 2021 at 9:00 am. Each Student/ Family will need to set up their own pop-up store on DoubleGood.com using the school code JYT PPX. Once your pop-up store is created, you will be given your own unique code to share with family and friends so they are able to purchase popcorn.
PARENT INSTITUTE MEETING
Dr. Adelaide Sandford Parent Leadership Institute Meeting: Saturday, April 10, 2021 at 10:00am
THE APRIL MEETING OF THE PARENT LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE WILL TAKE PLACE ON SATURDAY, APRIL 10TH at 10:00 A.M. This is not a Launch event, but we thought families might be interested.
Dr. Brenda Boyd Bell will present: Expanding My Boundaries and Discoryoung4@ix.netcom. covering "Who I Am and Where I Am Going." PLEASE RSVP by emailing Dr. Renee Young at ryoung4@ix.netcom.com or call 347-834-2934, and you will receive the Zoom link on Friday.
Please feel free to reach out at any time to me or any members of our Launch staff if you have questions, suggestions or concerns. We are your partners!
In Crew -
Efrat Kussell
Principal
Communication Plan
Clear and detailed communication is always a priority at Launch. We have several structures in place to communicate with multiple stakeholders. See the Communication Plan below for a detailed overview of our communication with families, staff, our Board of Directors and the community.