Plaza Elementary School

Hello Plaza School Community,

 

I hope you all had a wonderful summer. In late June, my daughters and I spent a few relaxing days at one of our favorite places, the Running Y Ranch in Klamath Falls. We’ve been visiting there for years! In July, we headed to San Diego where we visited the zoo, took a kayaking and snorkeling tour at La Jolla Cove, and toured UC San Diego as my oldest begins her senior year of high school this year. Of course, we also made plenty of time for one of our favorite summer activities, spending time at the beach!

 

We are thrilled to welcome Mrs. Ana Contreras and Ms. Elizabeth Guterriez. Mrs. Contreras will work most of the day in the cafeteria and a few hours in our after school program.  Ms. Guterriez will be our new after school activity assistant.  

 

We also welcome Ms. Sara Overholtzer, who is our full-time custodian. She and Mr. Felix has done an outstanding job all summer ensuring the campus is clean, organized, and looking its best for the start of school.

 

We also want to recognize Mrs. Esparza and Ms. Carrillo, who has been working tirelessly behind the scenes throughout the summer. From helping wrap up last school year and making sure everything is ready for the year ahead, their dedication has made a tremendous difference. 

 

Over the break, we hosted TK–6th grade students in our Expanding Learning Opportunities Program, led by Ms. Monica and her dedicated team, including Mrs. Hernandez, Ms. King, Ms. Orsua, Mrs. Siratt, Ms. Martinez, Ms. Carrillo, Mrs. Esparza, Mrs. Contreras, and Mrs. Webster. Their summer was filled with engaging, fun activities, while Mrs. Edson, Mr. Lovell, and Ms. Love provided academic support to help students stay sharp.

 

Before school starts, please log into https://plaza.schoolwise.com/  to complete your 2025–26 online forms. Be sure to fill out the Household Income Form — although meals are free this year, this form helps determine the level of state funding Plaza School receives for academic programs and student services. Your participation is critical, and we appreciate your help!

 

Just a reminder that Transitional Kindergarten, Kindergarten, and Seventh Grade students must have all required immunizations before the first day of school. Without them they will not be able to attend. Information, including letters sent home over summer, has been distributed explaining what immunizations are required. If you have questions, call the office as soon as possible.  

 

Back to School Night will be August 14th at 5:30 PM in the gym. I will introduce our teachers and share some important school updates. Following the opening session, teachers will host two 20-minute classroom presentations, with a short transition break in between. The evening will conclude by 7:00 PM.

 

I am truly excited for my 12th year at Plaza to begin. Our amazing little school has a long tradition of excellence and pride, and I look forward to working together to make this school year a great one for every student. 

 

Patrick Conklin