Cheetah Mail - Weekly Update 2.27.26

Dear Cherokee Families,

Happy Friday! It was another wonderful week here at school filled with learning, connection, and celebration. ✨

Earlier this week, I shared the news of my retirement at the end of this school year after 33 years in Lakota Local Schools and nearly three decades connected to Cherokee Elementary. I want to sincerely thank all of you for the incredibly kind messages and well wishes. Your words have meant more to me than I can adequately express, and I feel incredibly blessed to have spent so many years surrounded by such caring families and students. If you happened to miss the original message, you may view it here. Members of the Cherokee community, including parents, staff and community members, are invited to complete a short online survey about the qualities and characteristics they would like to see in the school’s next principal. The survey is open through March 13.

And today – what an AMAZING day it was as we celebrated Cherokee’s Celebration of Cultures Day! 🌎 Our building was filled with energy, pride, and joyful learning from start to finish.

Students enjoyed a performance, “Indian Culture Comes to You,” presented by the Cultural Centre of India, which brought music, movement, and storytelling to life. Classrooms participated in our schoolwide “Tour the World” experience, visiting beautifully decorated country-themed doors throughout the building as part of a friendly door decorating contest. We are so thankful to our generous friends and local businesses: Christian Gill, Alexandra Wells, Aladdin's Eatery, Lulu's Sweets Boutique, Raising Cane's, Torchy's Tacos and Freddy's for donating prizes for our winners! Each grade level also took part in hands-on cultural arts and crafts generously supported by our PTA.

Our staff was also treated to delicious food donated by PTA volunteer Alexandra Wells, Lulu's Sweets Boutique and Numprik Thai Lao - we are so appreciative of their generosity and support. In addition, our Child Nutrition Services team offered a unique cultural dish on today's lunch menu for students to try - Chicken Tikka Masala - marking the first time this entrée has been offered at the elementary level.

One of the most special parts of the day was seeing students proudly wear traditional or cultural clothing representing their heritage - every corner of our building reflected the rich diversity and vibrant spirit of our community. Be sure to check out the photos below to catch a glimpse of the celebration. It was a beautiful reminder of the stories, traditions, and backgrounds that make our Cherokee community so special. 🩷

Looking ahead to next week, just a quick reminder that Thursday, March 5th is Spring Picture Day! 📷 Students will have individual and class photos taken that day so be sure to have them wear their brightest smiles. You can order pictures online at mylifetouch.com using the school code EVTK3234H.  Flyers were also previously sent home with students. 

Wishing all of you a fantastic weekend! As always, our AP, Mr. Stapleton, the Cherokee staff, and I appreciate your continued partnership in making Cherokee such a strong and caring school community. If you have any questions, concerns or good news to pass on please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We love to hear from you!

 

Valerie Montgomery, Principal