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Principal's Proclamations, January 16, 2026

Posted Date: 01/16/26 (04:00 PM)
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Principal's Proclamations

Mrs. Leigh Jones, Proud Principal

January 16, 2026
 
Shivering Bolt
 

Longwood Lions Update: 100 Days Smarter & Staying Warm!


Happy January, Lion Families!

Can you believe we are already reaching such huge milestones this school year? From celebrating our growth to staying active in the community, there is so much happening at Longwood Elementary.

💯 The Big Milestones: 100 & 101 Days!
Get ready to celebrate! Friday, January 23 marks our 100th Day of School. It’s a wonderful time to look back at how much our students have learned since August. But the fun doesn’t stop there—on Monday, January 26, we’ll be celebrating the 101st Day of School (keep an eye out for some "101 Dalmatians" inspired fun in 1st Grade!).
👟 Run Club: Meet at Bear Lake ES
Our runners have been working hard, and it’s time to show off that stamina! Join the Run Club at Bear Lake on Saturday, January 24. It’s a great way to get some fresh air and represent Longwood ES in the community. We hope to see a sea of school colors there!
❄️ Bundle Up, Lions!
"Florida Cold" has officially arrived! As a reminder, PE, morning arrival, afternoon dismissal, and all class transitions happen outdoors at our school. Please ensure your students are wearing warm layers—jackets, sweaters, and long pants—so they can stay comfortable and focused on learning throughout the day.
🎒 Reminders: Safety & Procedures
Please take a moment to review the new procedures regarding backpacks and personal items included in the letter found further down in this newsletter.
🦁 PTA & Community
Don't forget to check the "PTA Corner" section of this newsletter for all the exciting things our PTA has planned. Their support makes so many of our school traditions possible!

Thank you for being such a vital part of our pride.
Gooooo Lions!

Mrs. Leigh Jones
Proud Principal
Longwood Elementary School
Lion
 

Inaugural SCPS District Night with the Orlando Magic

Our Inaugural SCPS District Night with the Orlando Magic is Tuesday, March 31st. Tickets sales are LIVE for SCPS families and staff to purchase at a discounted rate and $5 per ticket is donated to the school of their choice.

Date: March 31st
Location: Kia Center, Orlando, FL
Tip-Off: 7:00 PM
Orlando Magic vs. Phoenix Suns

Get ready for an electrifying evening
as the SCPS community comes together to cheer on the

Orlando Magic with special events and fun surprises!

 

Classroom makeover contest

Classroom Makeover Contest-
The Orlando Magic is thrilled to announce the launch of our Classroom Makeover Contest! Now through the end of January, we’re inviting
students, parents, family members, and colleagues to nominate a deserving teacher for the chance to receive a transformative classroom makeover.
Eligible teachers must currently teach kindergarten through 12th grade at a public, private, or charter school in Orange, Osceola, or Seminole County. Nominations will be judged based on the following criteria:

• Impact on Students
• Creativity & Innovation
• Incorporating the Orlando Magic into the Curriculum
• Need for a Classroom Makeover

Know an incredible teacher who deserves this
opportunity? Spread the word and encourage
nominations - the more, the merrier!
See rules and enter at:
 

Upcoming Events


January 17, PTA Spirit Night @Extreme Youth **DATE CHANGE**^^^^^

January 19, 2026, Martin Luther King Jr Day, schools closed
January 23: 100th Day of School
January 24: Run Club Meet @Bear Lake ES
January 26: 101st Day of School.
January 27: PTA Family Game Night 6:30 - 8:00 PM
January 30: 3rd Grade Field Trip to Sea World
January 31: Run Club Meet @Markhum Woods MS
January 31: Classroom Makeover nominations due at (Orlando Magic, see above)

FEBRUARY
February 2: 46th Annual JOY Award (5th Grade, Longwood City Hall), 5:00 PM
February 7: SCPS Science Fair @Lake Mary HS 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
February 10: SAC Meeting: 5:00 PM (Conf Rm)
February 10: Progress Report #3 posted to Family Access (Skyward)
February 12: PTA Skate Night, 6:30 - 8:30 PM
February 17 & 20: 2nd Grade Field Trip, Orlando Family Stage
February 19: PTA Free Family Movie Night 6:30 - 8:30 PM
February 20: Dad's Day to Play, 3-5th grades
February 21: Elementary Music Festival @Millennium MS 2:00 PM
February 23: Dad's Day to Play, K-2nd Grades
February 28: SCCPTA Mascot Games

MARCH
March 12: Report Card Quarter #3 sent home
March 13: School's Closed, Teacher Work Day
March 16 - 20: Spring Break
March 23: Classes Resume
March 27: Report Card Quarter #3 posted to Family Access (Skyward)
March 31: SCPS District Night with the Orlando magic (see above)

APRIL
April 24: Progress Report #4 posted to Family Access (Skyward)


MAY
May 27: Report Card Quarter #4 sent home


JUNE
June 5: Report Card Quarter #4 posted to Family Access (Skyward)

**Disclaimer** Occasionally dates can change. Be sure to reach out to your child's classroom teacher if you do not see information posted or received on correct date.
Longwood Upcoming Events
 

PTA Corner

We’re stocking up for our teachers and staff!

The PTA is hosting a School Supply Bar later this month and is asking for donations to help purchase supplies they can choose from.
Interested in donating? Check out the link or scan the QR code!

Parent's Night Out: Extreme Youth

Have you signed your student up for Parents Night Out: Nerf Battle yet?
T Saturday, January 17
h 6:00–10:00 PM
is Ages 5–12
$20 for first child and siblings $15 each!
What’s included:
i Action-packed NERF battles & team challenges
s Pizza party with friends
Game room fun
a Wind-down movie time
n PLUS — this night supports our community!
100% of pizza profits will be donated to Longwood Elementary PTA, so every slice helps make a difference! e
Spots are limited and fill FAST. RSVP ASAP!

Family Game Night, January 27, 2026

You are invited to a Family Game Night! We’ll have a variety of games, snow cones, and popcorn—all for free!

Bring the whole family, relax, and have fun. We can't wait to see you there!
 

FAST Information: Mrs. Teddy Adames

Disclaimer: Dates subject to change based on individual student needs, class make up, and and absences. Make up dates throughout window.

All PM 2 tests have been administered.
Makeups Continue.......

 
attendance matters

Attendance Matters: Why Every Minute Counts

During December/January (through 1/15), Longwood Elementary recorded 366 unexcused absences and 58 unexcused tardies.

Did you know that being on time and present every day is one of the most important factors in your child’s success at school? Research shows that consistent attendance and punctuality are directly linked to higher academic achievement and stronger social-emotional development.
Why Being Tardy Hurts
Arriving late doesn’t just mean missing a few minutes—it can disrupt learning in big ways:
  • Lost Instructional Time: Even 10 minutes late each day adds up to 50 minutes a week, which is nearly 30 hours a year—that’s like missing almost a week of school!
  • Missed Routines: Morning routines set the tone for the day. Students who arrive late often feel rushed and less prepared to learn.
  • Impact on Classmates: Late arrivals interrupt lessons and can affect the focus of the entire class.
Why Being in School Every Day is Critical
  • Learning Builds Daily: Skills in reading and math grow step by step. Missing even one day can make it harder to keep up.
  • Confidence and Connection: Regular attendance helps children feel part of the classroom community and develop friendships.
  • Long-Term Success: Studies show that students with strong attendance in elementary school are more likely to graduate high school and succeed later in life.
How Families Can Help
  • Set a consistent bedtime and morning routine.
  • Prepare clothes and backpacks the night before.
  • Schedule appointments outside school hours whenever possible.
Every day counts—and every minute matters! Let’s work together to make sure our students are on time and ready to learn.

Please make every effort to have your child at school and on time each day. The tardy bell rings at 8:35 AM, but if your child plans to eat breakfast, they should arrive by 8:15 AM at the latest. Arriving later often means they don’t have enough time to finish eating and get to class on time. Let’s work together to ensure our students start the day ready to learn!

For more information and resources, please visit:
SCPS Student Attendance Information
https://www.scps.k12.fl.us/district/departments/student-support/student-attendance.stml
Attendance Works – A national initiative focused on improving school attendance
https://www.attendanceworks.org/
Florida Department of Education – Student Services
https://www.fldoe.org/schools/family-community/activities-programs/student-services/
 

Carline / Reminders (drop off and pick up)

PM DISMISSAL UPDATES We are thrilled to share that afternoon dismissal is running significantly faster! This is a direct result of the hard work of our PM carline team—led by Officer Schwenn, Coach Cadle, Mr. Fix, Mrs. Hicks, and our dedicated staff—alongside the support of the Longwood PD. It truly takes a village to keep our Lions moving safely.
To maintain this momentum, please continue to observe all traffic laws, specifically posted road signs and turning restrictions. Longwood PD has informed us they will continue active enforcement of all traffic, parking, and dismissal regulations. Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our students, families, and staff safe.
AM DROP-OFF EFFICIENCY To keep our morning line moving, please ensure your child is ready to "hop out" as soon as your vehicle comes to a complete safety stop. We ask that backpacks and lunchboxes are in hand and "goodbyes" are said before you reach the drop-off point.
Encouraging this "ready-to-go" mindset helps build independence in our students—even our youngest Lions! Every second saved helps the entire community get to class on time.
A QUICK SAFETY REMINDER Longwood PD is conducting daily radar patrols in the areas surrounding Longwood Elementary. Please be mindful of your speed and strictly follow all posted school zone signage. Let’s keep our streets safe for everyone!
 

What Does It Mean to Be a Title I School?


Our school is proud to be designated as a Title I school, which means we receive additional federal funding to support the academic success of every student. Title I is part of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) and is designed to ensure that all children—regardless of family income—have access to a high-quality education.

Why Are We Title I?
We qualify for Title I funding because a significant percentage of our students come from families who meet certain income criteria. This funding helps us provide extra resources and opportunities to close achievement gaps and support learning for all.

What Does This Mean for Our Students and Families?
  • Additional Academic Support: Some examples could be that we could offer interventions, tutoring, and small-group instruction to help students succeed.
  • Family Engagement Opportunities: Title I encourages strong partnerships between school and home, so we host workshops, family nights, and provide resources to help parents support learning at home.
  • Access to Resources: Funds may be used for technology, instructional materials, and professional development for teachers to improve classroom instruction.

Being a Title I school means we are committed to helping every child succeed. Together, we can ensure that all students have the tools they need to thrive.

 
RAD

How do I apply for meal benefits for my child(ren)?


Please visit the website (above) to find out more about meal benefits. Did you know that when your family qualifies for meal benefits, it supports Longwood?

WHAT'S FOR BREAKFAST AND LUNCH?

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
 

Contact Information

MEET THE LEADERSHIP TEAM:

Mrs. Leigh Jones
Principal
leigh_jones@scps.k12.fl.us

Mrs. Teddy Adames
Assistant Principal
Teddy_adames@scps.k12.fl.us

Ms. Alicia Martinez
School Administration Manager
Alicia_martinez@scps.k12.fl.us

Mrs. Kelly Stivers
Guidance Counselor
stiverkm@scps.k12.fl.us

Mrs. Lindsay Hicks
Instructional Coach, K-5 ELA/SS/Writing
lindsay_hicks@scps.k12.fl.us

Mrs. Angela Giddens
Instructional Coach, K-5 Math/Science
angela_giddens@scps.k12.fl.us

Attendance:
Mrs. Aimee Huber
Truancy/Attendance Administrator and Interventionist
aimee_huber@scps.k12.fl.us
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