The Roundup

Important Dates
March 24
PTA Meeting
12:00 PM at the Patch Library
March 25
Drama Club Performance
5:00 PM
March 26
Military Working Dog Guest Reader
March 27 - April 6
Spring Break - No School
March 28
All Re-registration Must Be Completed
Questions or Concerns?
(+49) 0631 7106 7000
DSN: 324-483-7000
To let us know if your child will be absent or if you have any other attendance-related issues/questions, please email the office staff at patchesattendance@dodea.edu
If you need an email changed or added in Aspen to receive all Patch ES communications, please email our Registrar at patches.registrar@dodea.edu


Dear Patch Elementary School Families,
We had an exciting week filled with fun and learning! As part of our month-long Read Across America celebration, students were encouraged to dress up as their favorite book characters. Don't forget to check out the beautiful student-created bookmarks on display, courtesy of our wonderful PTA. Next week wraps up RAA with Professions Week. We'll have the privilege of welcoming a military working dog (with a special demonstration) as well as more guest readers.
Our staff is almost done with their thrilling Rock Paper Scissors competition—who will emerge victorious? Stay tuned to find out!
This week, we welcomed special visitors for our Quality Assurance Visit. District leaders and teachers came to see firsthand how we teach and learn at Patch Elementary. We are proud of our students and staff for showcasing our school's excellence.
As we approach the end of the quarter next week on March 26th, please remember that Spring Break starts March 27th with students returning on April 7th. We hope everyone enjoys a well-deserved break!
A friendly reminder: students should not bring medicine to school on their own. All medication must be kept in the clinic and distributed by our nurse. Additionally, breakfast starts at 7:30 AM in the MPR, but the rest of the school opens at 7:40 AM.
Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our school community.
In Service,
Dr. Quinland and Mr. Pieper

A guest reader shares a story with kindergarten.
Spirit the Stallion showing off for the camera.




Amazonian Arguments: Resourceful Reasoning
Our 5th graders embarked on an exciting project-based learning adventure focused on the essential question: "How should the resources of rainforests be used and preserved?" As part of their curriculum standard 5.2b.1, students were tasked with researching and defending their positions on this critical issue. They took on the roles of Native Amazonians, Rubber Tappers, Loggers, Settlers, Cattle Ranchers, and Environmentalists, each bringing unique perspectives to the table. The success criteria for this project was clear: students needed to use text evidence and research to defend their reasoning effectively.
To prepare for their debates, students delved into extensive research, gathering facts and statistics to support their arguments. They learned about the diverse ways rainforests are utilized and the importance of preserving these vital ecosystems. Each student developed persuasive points, considering the impact of their assigned role on the rainforest and its resources. This immersive experience not only enhanced their understanding of rainforest conservation but also honed their critical thinking and public speaking skills.
The culmination of this project was a series of Socratic method debates, where students presented their arguments to volunteer jurors. These jurors provided unbiased opinions on which group defended their position most convincingly. The debates were lively and informative, showcasing the students' ability to use evidence and research to support their viewpoints. Through this project, our 5th graders gained a deeper appreciation for the complexities of rainforest conservation and the importance of informed decision-making.


Our young artists have been hard at work this semester. Recently, students completed their projects on masks and mosaics, showcasing their creativity and attention to detail. These projects allowed them to explore different traditions and artistic techniques, resulting in some truly stunning pieces. Make sure you stop by the display case in our main entrance to see some of their work!
As we move forward, students will dive into the fascinating world of galleries and art museums. They will learn about the history and significance of these institutions, and how they contribute to the art community. Each student will create their own gallery display, which will be featured in our Art Showcase in May. We can't wait to see the unique and imaginative exhibits they come up with! Stay tuned for more updates!


We've had a challenging few weeks with various illnesses, including strep throat, flu, bronchitis, and a stomach virus. Additionally, other viruses are causing symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, sore throat, and a persistent cough. If your child exhibits any of these symptoms, please keep them at home.
According to DODEA guidelines, students with cold or flu-like symptoms should remain at home. Administering medication before school will not prevent the spread of illness to other students.
Medications should also stay at home unless they have been processed through the nurse's office with a doctor's note. Several students have been found with medication in their pockets or bookbags. Please note that medicine and cough drops are not allowed in school unless administered by parents in the presence of the nurse or administration. It is unsafe for children to carry medication in their backpacks.
Our goal is to maintain a safe and healthy community. If you have any questions, please contact me at Bethzaida.matos@dodea.edu. We hope you have a great and safe weekend.