Welcome to The Cove School!

The Cove School, a California Gold Ribbon School, is a community of active learners who inquire, think critically, collaborate, explore and create. By encouraging and supporting individuals to take risks, play and pursue passions, we foster intrinsic motivation to learn and discover the world around us. We learn through a multidisciplinary approach, and utilize facilities and technologies that support this vision. Achievements of all are individually and collectively recognized and celebrated.

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The Cove Connection & News

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    Dec 14, 2025 · The Cove School
    Cove Connection, Issue 17 - Sunday, December 14, 2025

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    Cove School Guiding Principles 

    Experiential Learning, Social Emotional Growth,

    Creativity, Community
    Priority registration for kindergarten and new students for 2026-27 is open from December 1 to January 31 (Click Here)

    Thank you to all our volunteers (and customers!) who made this year's Holiday Store so joyful!


    UPCOMING DATES

    • Wednesday, December 17 | Kindergarten Holiday Sing, 8:30-9:30, Cove Gallery

    • Wednesday, December 17 | Board Meeting, 12:30pm

    • Friday, December 19 | All School Sing, 8:20-8:50am, Cove Gallery

    • Friday, December 19 | Early Dismissal -- 1:15pm

    • Weeks of December 22-January 2 | Winter Break -- No School

    • Sunday, January 4 | Readathon 99 Pledges Link Sent to Families

    • Monday, January 5-Thursday, January 8 | Book Collection for Book Swap, drop off in Gallery

    • Monday, January 5 | Readathon folders go home

    • Tuesday, January 6 | Bond Information Meeting @ Cove, 10:30-11:30am

    • Thursday, January 8| Bond Information Meeting @ Hall, 5-6pm

    • Friday, January 9 | Books Swap and Readathon Kick Off Assembly

    PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE

    Dear Families,


    The holiday season is in full swing! Our families celebrate this season in many different ways. As we navigate the next week which is full of excitement, energy, and a range of emotions, let's work as a team to set our children up for success. Please remember the importance of rest, nutrition and routine.


    The spirit of celebration and philanthropy is alive at Cove. 

    • SF Marin Food Bank- Please Donate Canned Goods by Thursday! This year fifth graders Ashkan, Ben, Ted and Liam carry on the tradition of The Cove School collecting food for SF Marin Food Bank. Please bring canned and non-perishable foods such as pasta, rice, peanut butter, non-sugary cereal and canned foods to the large bins in the gallery (near the office) by the morning of Thursday, Dec 18.

    • Toy Drive by 5th Grade Leadership- Please bring new, unwrapped toys and drop them in the toy bin in the Cove School lobby (next to the food collection bins) by the morning of Thursday, Dec 18.

    • Kindergarten Holiday Sing- The beloved Kindergarten Holiday Sing is on Wednesday morning. Kindergarten parents, prepare to be delighted as your children stand on stage and sing festive songs. It melts my heart every year!

    • All School Sing Along- On Friday morning at 8:20, we will have our all school holiday sing along assembly. It’s very casual and festive, and parents are welcome to participate in the sing along.


    I look forward to a festive week ahead!

    Michelle Walker, Principal


    SCHOOL & PTO NEWS

    Minted Fundraiser

    Haven’t ordered your holiday cards yet?  Use code:  FUNDRAISECOVEPTO to get 20% off on all Minted purchases and 10% of sales gets donated back to our school!


    Puberty Parent Ed

    A huge thank you to Camilla Behnke, LMFT, and fellow 5th grade parent at Neil Cummins, for an informative and engaging talk about puberty last week.  If you missed it or want to refer back, the recording can be found here (with the corrected link for the full video!):  Growing Up Together: Parent Puberty Talk Video


    Readathon 2026 - Save the Date and Fun Volunteer Opportunities! 

    Our 10th Annual Cove Readathon is coming soon! The Readathon is a 3-week reading and fundraising Cove event that will take place from January 9 to January 27. Not only does it encourage our children to read, it also raises money that The Cove School depends on. Our goal is to raise $60,000+ this year, to help fund many of the things we know and love at The Cove, including: the Cove garden, recess enrichment, professional development for teachers, instructional materials, classroom supplies and equipment, furniture, PE and playground equipment, campus events, parent education, campus improvements and much, much, more!

    We will have several fun events and activities around the Readathon that will rely on parent help. If you are interested in volunteering, or just want more information about potential opportunities to volunteer, please reach out to Natalie Kaniel natkaniel@gmail.com. 

    Our Readathon Book Swap will take place on Friday, January 9th - winter break is a great opportunity to go through your kids’ bookshelves and collect books that they may have outgrown. We will be collecting books in the Gallery throughout the first week in January, and that Friday, each class will have the opportunity to come and help themselves to some “new to them” books. If you are interested in volunteering to help sort books, and/or to help at the Book Swap itself, here is the Book Swap Volunteer Sign-up. 


    SPARK NEWS
    Sign up HERE!
    Check it out HERE!
    Learn more HERE!
    DISTRICT NEWS
    Board Updates
    On December 17, 2025 the Board will meet at 12:30 in the Hall Library to conduct the annual organizational meeting. The Board will vote on the first interim budget, bond consultant contracts, and the updated facilities strategic plan. Additionally, the Board will discuss math and literacy intervention, as well as the 2024-25 auditor’s report. The meeting will be live streamed via Zoom (link; passcode - lcmsd). Please know, public comments will only be taken by in person attendees; public comments via Zoom will not be available. We hope to see you there. All agendas can be found here.

    COMMUNITY NEWS
    Check out events, classes, and signups like Twin Cities Softball HERE!

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    Dec 7, 2025 · The Cove School
    Cove Connection, Issue 16 - Sunday, December 7, 2025

    Cove School Guiding Principles 

    Experiential Learning , Social Emotional Growth ,

    Creativity, Community
    Priority registration for kindergarten and new students for 2026-27 is open 
    from December 1 to January 31 (Click Here )
     

    Congratulations to Cove's Rosa Thomas who is the new Mayor of Corte Madera!


    UPCOMING DATES

    • Monday, December 8th | Facilities Strategic Planning Meeting, 3:30-5:00 pm, via Zoom 

    • Wednesday, December 10th | School Safety Task Force (3:30 at Hall)

    • Thursday, December 11th | Holiday Store Set up, 4pm-6pm, Cove Gallery

    • Friday, December 12th | Holiday Store , all day, Cove Gallery

    • Wednesday, December 17th | Kindergarten Holiday Sing, 8:30-9:30, Cove Gallery

    • Wednesday, December 17th | Board Meeting, 1:00pm

    • Friday, December 19th | All School Sing, 8:20-8:50, Cove Gallery

    • Friday, December 19th | Early Dismissal--1:15pm

    • Weeks of December 22-January 2nd | Winter Break--No School

    PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE

    Celebrating Our Cove School Garden

    Our Cove School garden has been full of excitement this fall as students explore, learn, and connect with nature. Ms. Natalie, our new PTO-funded Garden Educator, has joined the Cove and Neil Cummins communities this year, bringing three years of outdoor education experience including her recent work as the garden teacher in San Francisco. She has been a welcome addition to our Cove community.

    So far, K, 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 5th graders have visited the garden with Ms. Natalie. Students have been learning about seasonal changes, soil health, plant identification, and how to care for living things. Garden time supports science learning, boosts focus, reduces stress, and nurtures teamwork and curiosity.

    A big thank you to our PTO, under the supportive leadership of Jessica Swanson, for funding the garden program. We are also grateful for the leadership of Karolin Phillips, who organizes our parent-led garden work days, and for all the volunteers who help keep the garden thriving.

    The garden will shift into winter mode after this week. Ms. Natalie will return in March to continue working with classes. When she’s on campus, she opens the garden during lunch recess on Mondays and Thursdays, and we hope to offer some winter lunchtime garden time with the help of volunteers.

    Under Karolin Phillips’ leadership, Cove has applied for the Green Ribbon Schools designation. The 45-page application highlights our sustainability efforts, especially the vibrant learning happening in our garden. No matter the outcome, I am so grateful for the green efforts of our school and the time spent to highlight them in the application!

    Thank you to everyone who helps make our garden a joyful and enriching part of the Cove experience. You can see more pictures of students learning in the garden here: Cove School Garden Photo Album

    Sincerely,

    Michelle Walker




    SCHOOL & PTO NEWS

    Staff Secret Snowflake

     It has become a winter tradition to give each of our beloved staff a Cove School Spirit item. This year we will give all staff our new Cove School branded hoodies! Secret Snowflakes may remain anonymous or may include a “from” note.  Please sign up by Friday, December 12th as an individual or with a friend! Secret Snowflake is a $50 contribution per staff member. Payment may be submitted by check (payable to Cove PTO, delivered to the Cove office) or via Venmo (@the_cove_pto) or via credit card through Stripe by December 12th. Please note who you are purchasing for in the notes section. Thank you!


    Holiday Store

    The Cove School Holiday Store returns on Friday, December 12th. Prepare to be delighted by the gifts chosen by your children from the new and gently-used “inventory” donated by the Cove community as we transform the Gallery into a “Holiday Store.” Students love shopping for important people in their lives at this special annual event. This opportunity instills a spirit of giving in our children. Students bring in $2 and get to shop for 2 gifts. Our awesome volunteers (we need YOU!) wrap the gifts and the students bring them home to you!

    We need your help to make this happen! 

    • DONATE by Thursday December 11th - Bring items to the Cove Gallery beginning Monday December 1st. Treasures in high demand include: gift bags of all sizes (no wrapping paper, please!), costume jewelry and women’s accessories, hobby supplies, holiday-themed decor, housewares, cookbooks, DVDs, and anything for men! We cannot take used clothing without tags, dirty or broken items, toys, or stuffed animals.

    • VOLUNTEER for store set-up on Thursday December 11th and for shopping assistance and gift wrapping on Friday, December 12th. Please sign up here. 

    • SEND MONEY Send $2.00 with your child on Friday, December 12th. (Any proceeds support PTO programs at The Cove School but no student will be turned away from shopping during school hours if they don’t bring funds.) Students and families may continue to shop the Holiday Store for more gifts after school in the Gallery from 3pm to 4pm!


    Variety Show

    Calling all performers!  Our Cove School Variety Show date will be Friday, March 20th at 6pm. Here is a recording of the Informational Zoom in case you missed it (Passcode: =NhRy2we)--Skip to 3:30 into the video for the start!

    • December 15th - January 9th: Variety Show Registration–Form won’t be live until 12/15

    • Additional dates listed here. 

    For questions, please email: varietyshow@covepto.org


    Minted Fundraiser

    Haven’t ordered your holiday cards yet?  Use code:  FUNDRAISECOVEPTO to get 20% off on all Minted purchases and 10% of sales gets donated back to our school!


    Puberty Parent Ed

    A huge thank you to Camilla Behnke, LMFT, and fellow 5th grade parent at Neil Cummins, for an informative and engaging talk about puberty last night.  If you missed it or want to refer back, the recording can be found here:  Growing Up Together, Parent Puberty Talk


    Hall Prospective Family Tours 
    Calling all rising 5th grade families, Hall School Tours are now available. Tours are held about every other Thursday at 9 am. Please take a look at available dates here and sign up to reserve your spot! This is a wonderful opportunity to take a peek inside and preview a day at Hall Middle School. We look forward to having you on campus and supporting the transition to Hall! Go Cougars!!!

    Cove School Tours
    Families wishing to join The Cove School next year (August 2026) are invited to participate in a tour. Principal Walker along with counselor Scarlett Headley will share Cove’s philosophy and approach as well as other important information about our amazing school.   Learn more and sign up here.


    Tour Dates: 

    • Dec 11, 9:00am (In Person at Cove)

    • Jan 9, 9:00am (In Person at Cove)

    • Jan 23, 2:00pm (Virtual via Zoom)  UPDATE ZOOM LINK***

    Tours will last approximately one hour and will provide time for Q & A. 


    The virtual tour on January 30 will be recorded on Zoom and the recording will be shared upon request to those who were unable to attend one of the scheduled dates.


    Lost and Found! 
    All items remaining in the lost and found will be donated on December 19th. Please swing by the racks in the gallery before then to pick up any lost items!

    Student- Led Canned Food Drive for SF Marin Food Bank
     5th grade leaders, Ashkan with Ben, Liam and Ted are continuing the holiday food drive at Cove this year from December 8th-18th. Please drop canned goods and other non-perishable items in the two bins near the entrance of the gallery. Last year we collected 312 pounds of food and hoping we can collect even more this year. Thank you for your support!

    Toy Drive by 5th Grade Leadership
    My name is Charlotte, I am in fifth grade, here at Cove Elementary School and we are doing a Toy Drive for kids in need.  Drop off  any new and unwrapped toys in the Toy Drive bin located in the lobby of Cove School (next to the food bank bins) starting Monday December 8th through Thursday December 18th. . Click here  and scroll down for toy ideas. We want to make a child's dream come true. Even the smallest gift can make a big difference for a child and can bring joy to their day. Thank you so much for helping us spread some holiday cheer!!! -Charlotte and the entire 5th Grade

    5th grade leadership is hosting a Toy Drive and Food Drive this Holiday Season.

    SPARK NEWS
    Check out ways to get involved!
    Sign up HERE! 

    Check it out HERE!
    Check it out HERE!
    Check it out HERE!
    DISTRICT NEWS
    Facilities Strategic Plan and Bond
     Families are invited to join a  Zoom meeting  on  Monday, December 8, 3:30–5:00 pm  to provide feedback and help shape the future of our schools. LCMSD is updating its ten-year Facilities Strategic Plan to reflect new safety needs, rising construction costs, evolving program, athletic and community priorities, and the current condition of our campuses. The District is also exploring a bond extension of the 2000 Measure A authorization and will be seeking input on potential safety, facility, and athletic projects. Dec 8 Meeting Zoom Link:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89150189131

    COMMUNITY NEWS

    Congratulations to Cove's Rosa Thomas who is the new Mayor of Corte Madera!


  • Dec 2, 2025 · The Cove School
    Round 1 of 2026-2027 New Student Enrollment Ends January 31st

    Hello LCMSD Community,


    Enrollment for new students to LCMSD for the 2026-2027 school year is now open on our district website.  


    Round 1 of new student enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year will close on January 31st. 


    Enrolling in Round 1 significantly increases the chance your child is placed in your preferred elementary school (Cove or Neil Cummins), so complete your enrollment now for any students who will be new to LCMSD next school year!


    This enrollment process is for students NEW to the district. Students currently enrolled in the district do not need to enroll again - they will automatically be rolled up into the next school year. This includes fifth grade students moving on to Hall Middle School. If your child is currently enrolled and is NOT planning to attend school in LCMSD next year, please complete this Student Exit Survey.


    Enrollment Process

    Go to the LCMSD Enrollment Website for information about the documents you will need to upload and how to begin the online process. Before enrolling, check your home address against the LCMSD Boundary Street Listing to ensure your address is within the district boundaries. You can also check your property tax statement. If your address does not appear on this list, you are not in the LCMSD boundaries. Click on LCMSD Enrollment Instructions to begin the process. For assistance with the enrollment process, please contact Edith Valencia at evalencia@lcmschools.org or 415.927.6960 ext 4. 


    Enrollment Timeline

    The district prioritizes elementary school placement based on enrollment date. The earlier you register, the better your chances of getting your school preference. Here are the enrollment rounds and notification dates:

    Round 1

    • Enrollment Window: December 1 - January 31

    • Placement Notification: February 13

    Round 2

    • Enrollment Window: February 1 - April 30

    • Placement Notification: May 15

    Round 3

    • Enrollment Window: May 1 - July 31

    • Placement Notification: August 5

    Enrollments after July 31

    • Notification will be as soon as possible, prior to the first day of school in August. Final waitlist adjustments will be made by the 10th day of the start of the new school year.


    School Placement Criteria

    Parents have the opportunity to state a preference for a particular elementary school during the online enrollment process. The District office determines final placement based on the following prioritized criteria:


    1. Enrollments are prioritized based on enrollment dates. See "Enrollment Timeline” above for enrollment rounds and notification dates.

    2. Siblings of currently enrolled students will be enrolled in the same school if they choose; however, this placement may not always be at your school of choice. The currently enrolled sibling must be in attendance at the requested school when enrolling your new student.

    3. Addresses within The Cove School or Neil Cummins Neighborhood Parameters (per AR 5111.1). Key Codes for streets within the Neighborhood Parameters are shown as (NC) for Neil Cummins and (TCS) for The Cove School on the List of Streets Within District Boundaries.

    4. Facility capacity and class size.


    Notification of elementary student placement will be according to the registration window and round notification timelines above. Waitlist requests will be reviewed at each round of notification, and placements will be made accordingly. Notification will only be provided when space is available. If you are not notified, you will remain on the waitlist.


    School Waitlist & Lottery

    Parents identify their school of preference during the online enrollment process. At that time, they also indicate if they would like to be placed on a waitlist if their school of preference is not available. Should the school of choice not be available at the time of placement, students will be placed on a waitlist.

    • Round 1 Only: Siblings and students living the neighborhood attendance parameters will be automatically placed at their school of residence. All others will be placed in the lottery.

    • Waitlisted students will be placed via public lottery for each enrollment round, following the district prioritized criteria shown in "School Placement Criteria" above per AR 5111.1

    • It is the District’s desire to keep siblings together whenever possible. If one child has a space at the school of choice and the other child(ren) does not, parents have a choice. They may choose to stay at the school where there is space for all siblings to attend, or they may choose to accept the opening for the child at the school of choice and remain on the waitlist for the other child(ren).

    • When you are notified that space for your child is available at your school of preference, you will have 72 hours to respond to the District with your decision.

    • If you decide not to accept the space or do not respond within 72 hours, the District will move down the list in order of priority to the next student on the waitlist.

    For more information about attendance areas and lottery procedures, see Administrative Regulation 5111.1 District Residency.


    Please note: Enrolling in Round 1 significantly increases the chances of your child being placed in your preferred elementary school (Cove or Neil Cummins). 


    Transitional Kindergarten Information

    Transitional Kindergarten will not be offered for the 2026-2027 school year. See Information About Transitional Kindergarten for more information. While LCMSD does not offer UPK/TK programs, families who meet California State Preschool Program (CSPP) criteria may have access to free preschool services. CSPP eligibility includes income limits, current aid recipients, children experiencing homelessness, children receiving protective services, or those with exceptional needs. If your family meets these criteria, we encourage you to explore preschool options available through the College of Marin.


    Kindergarten Information


    Birthdates for Kindergarten Enrollment (2026-2027)

    Students born on or before September 1, 2021 (students turning 5 years old on or before September 1, 2026)


    Holding Students Back

    • Children eligible for Kindergarten are not required to enroll, as Kindergarten is not mandatory.

    • However, parents and guardians must enroll their children in school once they reach the age of six (EC Section 48200). It is a school-based decision, with parental input, whether the six-year-old student will be enrolled in Kindergarten or first grade. For first grade enrollment, California law requires a child to be six years old on or before September 1 to be legally eligible for first grade (EC Section 48010).


    Kindergarten Class Sizes

    Our goal is to maintain an average of 24 students per classroom.



    -Daniel Norbutas, Director of Educational Services and Technology

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    Nov 30, 2025 · The Cove School
    Cove Connection, Issue 15 - Sunday, November 30, 2025

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    Cove School Guiding Principles 

    Experiential Learning, Social Emotional Growth,

    Creativity, Community
    Tldr; Variety Show, Holiday Store, Spelling Bee, and more!

    Thank you Coach Arroyo for another amazing Turkey Trot!


    UPCOMING DATES

    • Wednesday, December 3 | PTO Board Meeting, 8:30-9:30am, Room 18 or on Zoom (Meeting ID: 489 448 7539, Passcode: coyote)

    • Thursday, December 4 | Variety Show Info Zoom, 7pm (Meeting ID: 489 448 7539, Passcode: coyote)

    • Thursday, December 4 | Parent Ed–Growing Together–A Parent Conversation About Puberty, 6pm on Zoom, Register Here

    • Thursday, December 11 | Holiday Store Set up, 4pm-6pm, Cove Gallery

    • Friday, December 12 | Holiday Store, all day, Cove Gallery

    • Wednesday, December 17 | Kindergarten Holiday Sing

    • Friday, December 19 | Early Dismissal--1:15pm

    • Weeks of December 22-January 2 | Winter Break--No School

    PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE

    The Importance of Giving Thanks

    “We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.”
     —Thornton Wilder

    As we wrap up our Thanksgiving break and ease back into the lively rhythm of school, I find myself reflecting on the many treasures within our Cove community. This season always moves quickly. Before long, we’ll be welcoming a new year and wondering where the fall went. All the more reason to pause, take a breath, and acknowledge the people who make our school such a remarkable place.

    I want to share my heartfelt gratitude for our extraordinary staff and teachers. Their passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to our students shine every single day. They inspire, nurture, and uplift our children in countless ways, both seen and unseen.

    I am equally grateful for you - our engaged and supportive parents. Your partnership, time, and generosity strengthen the fabric of our school and enrich the experience of every student. We are truly fortunate to have such a caring and invested community. We could not do this work without you.

    As we enter this busy stretch of the year, I encourage all of us to take small moments to practice gratitude. Research continues to remind us of its powerful impact on well-being, mindset, and connection.

    Wishing you and your families a joyful and gratitude-filled season.

    With appreciation,
    Michelle Walker, Principal

    SCHOOL & PTO NEWS

    The Turkey Trot was a huge success! 

    Thank you, Coach Arroyo! The energy was palpable as students, teachers and parents cheered on the runners. Students afterward shared how uplifting and energizing it was to run through the cheering crowd. I loved seeing all of the effort that each and every participant invested. I am also grateful for all of the 5th grade leaders who helped run the event.  Their kindness and willingness to help in whatever capacity was needed was heartwarming. All of the coyotes made me proud with their effort, support for each other and their spirit! Check out pictures here: Turkey Trot 2025 Google Photo Album

    Staff Secret Snowflake

    It has become a winter tradition to give each of our beloved staff a Cove School Spirit item. This year we will give all staff our new Cove School branded hoodies! Secret Snowflakes may remain anonymous or may include a “from” note.  Please sign up by Friday, December 12th as an individual or with a friend! Secret Snowflake is a $50 contribution per staff member. Payment may be submitted by check (payable to Cove PTO, delivered to the Cove office) or via Venmo (@the_cove_pto) or via credit card through Stripe by December 12th. Please note who you are purchasing for in the notes section. Thank you!


    Holiday Store

    The Cove School Holiday Store returns on Friday, December 12th. Prepare to be delighted by the gifts chosen by your children from the new and gently-used “inventory” donated by the Cove community as we transform the Gallery into a “Holiday Store.” Students love shopping for important people in their lives at this special annual event. This opportunity instills a spirit of giving in our children. Students bring in $2 and get to shop for 2 gifts. Our awesome volunteers (we need YOU!) wrap the gifts and the students bring them home to you!


    We need your help to make this happen! 

    • DONATE by Thursday December 11th - Bring items to the Cove Gallery beginning Monday December 1st. Treasures in high demand include: gift bags of all sizes (no wrapping paper, please!), costume jewelry and women’s accessories, hobby supplies, holiday-themed decor, housewares, cookbooks, DVDs, and anything for men! We cannot take used clothing without tags, dirty or broken items, toys, or stuffed animals.

    • VOLUNTEER for store set-up on Thursday December 11th and for shopping assistance and gift wrapping on Friday, December 12th. Please sign up here. 

    • SEND MONEY Send $2.00 with your child on Friday, December 12th. (Any proceeds support PTO programs at The Cove School but no student will be turned away from shopping during school hours if they don’t bring funds.) Students and families may continue to shop the Holiday Store for more gifts after school in the Gallery from 3pm to 4pm!


    Variety Show

    Calling all performers!  Our Cove School Variety Show date will be Friday, March 20th at 6pm. Please see upcoming key dates for more information and how to get involved:

    • Thursday December 4th, 7PM: Variety Show Parent Info Zoom, (Meeting ID: 489 448 7539, Passcode: coyote)

    • December 16th - January 10th: Variety Show Registration–Form won’t be live until 12/16

    Additional dates listed here. For questions, please email: varietyshow@covepto.org


    Minted Fundraiser

    Haven’t ordered your holiday cars yet?  Use code:  FUNDRAISECOVEPTO to get 20% off on all Minted purchases and 10% of sales gets donated back to our school!


    PTO Meeting
    Join us Wednesday December 3rd, at 8:30am for our PTO board meeting, in person (in Room 18), or on Zoom, Meeting ID: 489 448 7539, Passcode: coyote.  All are welcome to attend.  Can’t make the meeting but want to know what’s going on?  Meeting minutes are posted here and volunteer sign ups are posted here.  Questions?  Email Jessica Swanson at president@covepto.org

    Spelling Bee for 3rd-5th Graders

    The Cove Spelling Bee is back!  Any 3rd-5th grade students are welcome to participate. Starting Monday, Dec 1 participants will meet each Monday at lunch in room 18 to practice words and prepare for the Bee. Interested students should go to recess at 12:30 and then transition to room 18 to eat their lunch and learn more about this opportunity. Meeting Dates: 12/1, 12/8, 12/15, ⅕, 1/12. Spelling Bee starts on Tuesday, January 20 and continues at lunch each day that week until we crown our top 3 winners. Thank you, Ms. Holst for giving this opportunity to our students!


    Aegis Sing-A-Long
    Come spread some Holiday Cheer and do a good deed!  Aegis senior living located at 5555 Paradise Drive, Corte Madera (right down the street from Cove) is hosting a community Sing-Along in their main lobby on Saturday December 6th at 10:30am. They will have packets with the lyrics printed out for everyone and will be serving hot chocolate and cookies! This is a great opportunity to give back to the community in a really meaningful way this holiday season. All families welcome!  

    SPARK NEWS

    Donate HERE!
    Sign up HERE!
    DISTRICT NEWS
    Superintendent Coffee Chat at Cove Dec 2 in Rm 1 at 8:30am

    COMMUNITY NEWS
    Check out signups for sports & camps, and events in the community HERE!

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    Nov 21, 2025 · The Cove School
    With Gratitude: Honoring LCMSD Staff Who Inspire Us

     

    Dear LCMSD Community,

    At LCMSD, we believe in celebrating the incredible people who make our learning community an amazing place to learn and grow. As we head into Thanksgiving break, it's a fitting time to express our sincere gratitude for our dedicated staff, supportive families, and inspiring students. Together, you help create a school district where everyone can thrive.

    As part of LCMSD's Vision 2036, staff members were given the opportunity to recognize a colleague who exemplifies one of the Adult Portrait elements in their daily work. One staff member was selected to be recognized for each element, and was awarded with a gift donated by the PTO/As and SPARK at their school site staff meetings, were featured on the LCMSD social media accounts, and were celebrated during the November 19, 2025 Board Meeting. This recognition not only honors their impact, it helps others know who to turn to when growing in that specific area.

    The following are the Adult Portrait elements and the staff members who were honored. Congratulations!

    Danielle O'Reilly

    Critically Thinking & Creative Educator: Demonstrates innovation, creativity and resilience to continually adapt and embrace new/changing technologies, circumstances and teaching methodologies.

    Danielle's nominator wrote, “Her resilience, creativity, and collaborative spirit inspire colleagues and make her a powerful example of what it means to be a critically thinking and creative educator.”

    Dakota Long

    Equity-Focused Change Agent: Champions equity and inclusion to create a just, compassionate, and responsive school community.

    Dakota's nominator described her as someone whose “leadership inspires others to reflect, grow, and join her in building a truly inclusive community.”

    Christian Chinchilla

    Emotionally & Socially Aware Leader:  Models emotional awareness, empathy, and cultural responsiveness to cultivate belonging and collaboration.

    Christian's nominator remarked, “He routinely goes above and beyond by being solutions oriented and always willing to help for the betterment of our students.”

    Natasha Griffin

    Flexible Collaborator:  Facilitates a culture of inquiry to promote curiosity, a deeper understanding of subjects, and appreciation for different perspectives.

    Natasha's nominator noted, “Her commitment to collaboration has led to strong connections and extraordinary achievement.”

    Karina Hernandez 

    Caring, Kind, & Connected Adult: Demonstrates care, kindness and connection to inspire belief, inclusion, and emotional well-being.

    Karina's nominator shared, “Her support increases feelings of belonging for students and families and ensures we are meeting the needs of our students of focus.”

    Lyn Everly

    Impactful & Effective Communicator: Demonstrates emotional intelligence, empathy, and effective communication to inspire, connect, and guide growth.

    Lyn's nominator expressed, “She is one of my personal North Stars.”

    Brooke Suther

    Adaptive & Enthusiastic Lifelong Learner: Embraces growth and innovation to create an adaptive, engaging, and inclusive learning environment.


    Brooke's nominator shared, “She consistently goes above and beyond to make learning both fun and challenging."

    These incredible staff members will be featured on the LCMSD Vision 2036 webpage for the year. Congratulations to all!

    Dr. Brett Geithman
    Superintendent



    Brett Geithman, Ed.D., Superintendent
    LCMSD Board of Trustees
    Amir Movafaghi, President | Beth Blair, Vice President | Natalie Medved, Clerk | Ava Fruin | Jessica Dinday

     

    LCMSD Board of Trustees
    Amir Movafaghi, President 
    Beth Blair, Vice President
    Natalie Medved, Clerk
    Ava Fruin

    Superintendent
    Brett Geithman, Ed.D.


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    Nov 16, 2025 · The Cove School
    Cove Connection, Issue 14 - Sunday, November 16, 2025

    ​

    alt_text

    Cove School Guiding Principles 

    Experiential Learning, Social Emotional Growth,

    Creativity, Community
    Tldr; Turkey Trot Friday, 5th Grade Hall Orientation Thursday, Holiday Store Donations Needed

    Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Ruby Bridges walk to school. And thank you to Kristy Dell for helping our 5th grade leadership team coordinate the Ruby Bridges assembly!

    Congratulations to Danielle O'Reilly and Dakota Long for being honored with the LCMSD Adult Portrait Recognition Awards!


    UPCOMING DATES

    • Wednesday, November 19| LCMSD Board Meeting, 6pm

    • Thursday, November 20| Heard it from Hall (5th Graders at Hall 3:30-5:30)

    • Friday, November 21 | Turkey Trot (Details below)

    • Friday, November 21 | Trimester 1 Report Cards Available in Aeries, 3pm

    • Friday, November 21 | Early Dismissal--1:15pm

    • Week of November 24-28 | Thanksgiving Break--No School

    • Wednesday, December 3 | PTO Board Meeting, 8:30-9:30am, Room 18 or on Zoom (Meeting ID: 489 448 7539, Passcode: coyote)

    • Thursday, December 4 | Variety Show Info Zoom, 7pm (Meeting ID: 489 448 7539, Passcode: coyote)

    • Thursday, December 11 | Holiday Store Set up, 4pm-6pm, Cove Gallery

    • Friday, December 12 | Holiday Store, all day, Cove Gallery

    • Wednesday, December 17 | Kindergarten Holiday Sing

    • Friday, December 19 | Early Dismissal--1:15pm

    • Weeks of December 22-January 2 | Winter Break--No School


    PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE

    Hello Cove Families,

    The annual Cove Turkey Trot is on Friday, November 21! This is a celebration that centers around school spirit, community, encouragement and healthy competition. You are welcome to come cheer them on if you’d like!


    General Flow:

    • Kindergarten: Students come out to blacktop, run their laps, get stamps on their hands and then head back inside...short and sweet! 

    • Grades 1-5: At their scheduled time, 1st-5th grade students will come out and sit on the blacktop, facing the field. Students choose whether they participate in the fun run or the competitive run. Each group is called to run while others cheer them on. When running is complete the whole group moves to the blacktop facing the stage for a raffle and awards. All participants are entered in the raffle.


    Schedule: 

    • 8:20-8:45: Kindergarten 

    • 8:45-9:15: 1st grade (Fun run only- One class runs, other class cheers, then switch)

    • 9:20-10:20: 2nd and 3rd grade (Fun run first then competitive runs by grade)

    • 11:00-12:25: 4th and 5th grade (Fun run first then competitive runs by grade)


    I encourage you to send an extra change of clothes (including shoes and socks) because the course for grades 1-5 could be wet and muddy.


    Thank you to Coach Arroyo for making this event possible each year!


    Sincerely,
    Michelle Walker



    Dear Rising Cougar Families (aka 5th Grade Families), 

    Hear it from Hall is happening next week and we wanted to share more information! Please take a moment to read and bring a 5th grade friend! We hope to see you there! 

    Below is the brief agenda for November 20:

    • 3:30-4:30 pm All rising 5th grade Cougars This student-only portion of the event will be led by our Hall Leadership students. Please meet in our quad for groups to come together for the first time as the Class of 2029!! 

    • 4:30 - 5 pm: Mix & Mingle: Parents & 5th Grade Students (Hall Gym)  Once the student event concludes, we will transition to our Hall Gym for our students and families Mix & Mingle. This is an opportunity for parents and students to self-select topics of interest to ask questions and discuss with staff, parents, and/or Hall students (and alumni!). Bringing together our Neil Cummins and Cove families for the first time to give you an opportunity to interact. Families and students will be able to get up close and personal with our Hall community as we begin our journey to middle school together. 

    • 5 - 5:30 pm Family Information Session: Parents & 5th Grade Students (Hall Gym) We will offer a brief presentation to give families a timeline for what to expect as your child matriculates to Hall. Come hear from our LMCSD Board President, Hall alumni, parents, and more as we share how to prepare for a successful transition to middle school. 

    We hope to see you there!!

    Dr. Toni Chavez and Hall Staff 


    SCHOOL & PTO NEWS

    Cove Cares

    Cove Cares is a PTO committee that supports our Cove Community through illness, death in the family, loss of a job or other hardship with flowers, cards, meal trains, and other resources.  Know someone who could use some extra support?  Email Sharlyn Elliott at sharlynkerr@me.com 


    Holiday Store
    Coming Soon!  Start organizing your treasures to donate to the holiday store over Thanksgiving break!  Bring items to the Cove Gallery beginning Monday December 1st. Treasures in high demand include: gift bags of all sizes (no wrapping paper, please!), costume jewelry and women’s accessories, hobby supplies, holiday-themed decor, housewares, cookbooks, DVDs, and anything for men! We cannot take used clothing without tags, dirty or broken items, toys, or stuffed animals.  More information about volunteer sign ups (Set up on Thursday 12/11 and Store help on Friday 12/12) in the next Cove Connection issue.

    ScreenSense + MCOE
    If you missed the ScreenSense webinar, Delaying Social Media, the recording can be found here: MCOE – Safe Social Media. If you don't have time to watch the video, a wonderful resource guide can be found here. Raising kids in the digital age is tricky. We need to introduce tech slowly, in age-appropriate and intentional ways, and teach healthy habits. Time on screens can’t be at the expense of what matters most: childhood essentials like sleep, in-person relationships, hands-on play and learning, and time outdoors. If you are interested in learning more about ScreenSense, joining the Kids IRL Phone Pact, or connecting with other parents who are committed to helping their children have a phone-free childhood, please let us know. Join other Marin parents via the Kids IRL What's App Group here. 

    For questions, reach out to Catherine Wold at Catherine@Wold.com + Sue McCauley Warren at suemccauley@gmail.com

    SPARK NEWS
    Donate HERE!Check it out HERE!
    DISTRICT NEWS
    Board Updates
    On November 19, 2025 the Board will meet at 6:00 in the Hall Library and begin by celebrating the 2025 Adult Portrait Recognitions. The Board will vote on the Marin Primary Roof Repair project. Additionally, the Board will discuss Depth & Complexity Icons at Hall Middle School and the bond process. The meeting will be live streamed via Zoom (link; passcode - lcmsd). Please know, public comments will only be taken by in person attendees; public comments via Zoom will not be available. We hope to see you there. All agendas can be found here.

    COMMUNITY NEWS
    Check out events happening in the community, including Corte Madera Rec class signups and the library newsletter here!

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    Nov 14, 2025 · The Cove School
    LCMSD Board Appoints New Trustee: Jessica Dinday

     


    Dear LCMSD Community,


    Last night, the LCMSD Board appointed and swore in Jessica Dinday as the next Trustee to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Eric Schmautz. We were fortunate to have four highly qualified applicants, each bringing unique strengths, experiences, and a strong commitment to LCMSD. We sincerely appreciate the engagement of our community throughout this process.


    As a parent who has had children attend all three LCMSD schools, Jessica brings a deeply rooted and well-rounded perspective to the Board. She has been an active and engaged volunteer in our district for many years, serving as PTO Co-President at Neil Cummins, helping lead major community-building initiatives, and contributing to districtwide collaboration efforts. Jessica also currently serves on the Hall Middle School Site Council, adding valuable school-level perspective to her work. Professionally, she brings extensive experience as a therapist, clinical supervisor, and program manager supporting children and families - expertise that aligns closely with our district’s commitment to student well-being, belonging, and academic success.


    Jessica joins the Board with a strong history of partnership, service, and student-centered leadership. Congratulations Jessica!


    Dr. Brett Geithman
    Superintendent




    Brett Geithman, Ed.D., Superintendent
    LCMSD Board of Trustees
    Amir Movafaghi, President | Beth Blair, Vice President | Natalie Medved, Clerk | Ava Fruin | Jessica Dinday

     

    LCMSD Board of Trustees
    Amir Movafaghi, President 
    Beth Blair, Vice President
    Natalie Medved, Clerk
    Ava Fruin

    Superintendent
    Brett Geithman, Ed.D.


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    Nov 9, 2025 · The Cove School
    Cove Connection, Issue 13 - Sunday, November 9, 2025

    ​​​​

    alt_text

    Cove School Guiding Principles 

    Experiential Learning , Social Emotional Growth ,

    Creativity, Community
    Tldr; No School Nov 10-11, Make-up picture day Wednesday, Ruby Bridges Walk Friday

    Congratulations Haram A for winning the yearbook cover contest!


    UPCOMING DATES

    • Monday, November 10 | No School- Certificated Professional Development Day 

    • Tuesday, November 11 | No School- Veterans Day

    • Wednesday, November 12 | Make up Picture Day

    • Wednesday, November 12 | Special Board Meeting, Trustee Appointment

    • Friday, November 14 | Ruby Bridges walk to school  and Assembly

    • Friday, November 14 | End of 1st Trimester

    • Sunday, November 16 | Garden Work Day, 9am-12pm

    • Wednesday, November 19 | Board Meeting, 6pm

    • Friday, November 21 | Turkey Trot

    • Friday, November 21 | Early Dismissal @ 1:15pm

    • Friday, November 21 | Trimester 1 Report Cards Available in Aeries

    • Week of November 24-28 | Thanksgiving Break / No School

    PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE

    Yearbook Cover Contest Winner!
    The Cove 2025–2026 Yearbook Cover Contest was a huge success, with 22 wonderfully creative 5th Grade entries! Choosing a winner was a tough job for our students during last week’s on-campus election. Congratulations to our winner, Haram A! This year, for the very first time, our kindergartners cast their votes - their participation proved to be the deciding factor! 

    Thank you to all our 5th grade artists for their amazing submissions! Every entry will be featured on the back cover of the yearbook, and the front cover will proudly display Haram's winning design! See all yearbook cover entries here. We'd like to extend a special thank you to the Yearbook Committee, Kristine Hamlett and Catherine Wold, for organizing a fantastic election experience for the children! You can view photos from Election Day and Friday's assembly announcement by clicking here.

    SCHOOL & PTO NEWS

    Picture Retake Day:  Missed picture day in September or want a retake?  Dorian will be back on campus the morning of Wednesday November 12.  Please tell your teacher ahead of time if your child needs to take a photo that day.   Orders can be placed online at mydorian.com  before picture day and up to 2 days afterwards. Questions?  Email Jessica Swanson at  president@covepto.org  


    Teaching Exchange Program was a Huge Success! Thank you again to our PTO and District leadership for supporting this tremendous growth opportunity. We learned so much and cannot wait to bring back new ideas to Cove. We also got to meet the team of 4 teachers (pictured below) that will come to Cove in April 2026 to work with our 2nd and 4th graders. Check out this brief video that gives an overview, explains a little bit about the projects we did with the 2nd and 4th graders and also gives a glimpse of the closing activity with families.


    Ruby Bridges Walk to School:   Wear purple and join us for the Ruby Bridges Walk and Roll to School Day on Friday, November 14, and honor the courage of Ruby Bridges, who, at just six years old, helped desegregate an all-white school in Louisiana in the 1960s.  We celebrate her legacy by walking, biking, rolling, carpooling, or parking-and-walking to school.  Meet the crew at approximately 29 Spindrift by 7:50am and we’ll walk into campus together.  We need volunteers to help with safe street crossings and our Safe Routes tables.   Sign up here  to volunteer!

    Cove Garden Work Day:  Join us Sunday, November 16th from 9am-12pm in the Cove Garden for a fun work day!  All are welcome to help pull weeds, move mulch, and beautify our garden space.  If you have middle schoolers who need service hours, this is a great way for them to fulfill them!  Contact Karolin Phillips at thecoveschoolgarden@gmail.com for more information.

    Cove Cares:  Cove Cares is a PTO committee that supports our Cove Community through illness, death in the family, loss of a job or other hardship with flowers, cards, meal trains, and other resources.  Know someone who could use some extra support?  Email Sharlyn Elliott at sharlynkerr@me.com 


    Screening of Counted Out at the Lark Theater Draws Engaged Crowd
    We had a wonderful turnout for the screening of Counted Out at the historic Art Deco–designed Lark Theater. The audience’s thoughtful questions and the panel’s insights made for a rich and energizing discussion about the important, multi-faceted topic of math education.Vicki Abeles, Director and Producer of Counted Out, attended the screening and participated in the the panel led by Superintendent Dr. Brett Geithman. 

    Special thank you to the panelists for their amazing contribution to the evening:
    Daniel Norbutas, Senior Director, Educational Services and Technology
    Katie Tobes, Hall Middle School 8th Grade Math Teacher
    Beth Hawkins, District CGI Math Coach
    Jen Repo, Neil Cummins 1st Grade Teacher

    SPARK NEWS
    LINK: https://kimberlyadamsrealty.com/

    LINK: https://www.caragents.app/
    DISTRICT NEWS
    Board Updates:
    On November 12, 2025 the Board will meet at 5:00 in the Hall Library to conduct public interviews for the Board vacancy. Following interviews, the Board will deliberate and determine whether an appointment will be made. We appreciate the four applicants for their interest in serving the LCMSD community. The meeting will be live streamed via Zoom (link; passcode - lcmsd). Please know, public comments will only be taken by in person attendees; public comments via Zoom will not be available. We hope to see you there. All agendas can be found here.

    COMMUNITY NEWS
    Check out events happening in the community, including sign-ups for Corte Madera Rec programming HERE!

Events

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No events for December, 2025
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