Happy 2019, Payne parents and staff.

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL AUG. 26. The 2019-2020 school year begins Aug. 26 for most students and Aug. 29 for PK students, DCPS announced. But DCPS is polling parents, students and staff on three calendar proposals for how holiday breaks should be allotted. The survey takes a few minutes and could have big implications for your vacation plans. Sound off here.

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SUMMER CAMP FAIR. The New Year has just begun, but parents already are reserving camp spots for spring break and summer. Not sure where to start? J.O. Wilson Elementary’s PTA is hosting an annual camp fair, 6-8 p.m. Jan. 31 at the school, 660 K St. N.E. More than 60 camps from D.C., Maryland and Virginia are expected, ranging from traditional camps to others focused on the arts, music and academics.

 

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JANUARY PTSA MEETING RESCHEDULED TO JAN. 29: The January PTSA meeting will be moved back two weeks from Jan. 15 to Jan. 29. DCPS has chosen Payne to host a closed roundtable discussion Jan. 15 about the school budgeting process with LSAT members from DCPS schools around the city.

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GRADE-SPECIFIC COFFEE TALKS. As enrollment season approaches, Principal Byrd is hosting a series of coffees to take a closer look at grade levels. It’s an opportunity to learn what will be in store for your child moving up a grade. The first session at 9 a.m. Jan. 11 will focus on Kindergarten.

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FREE SIGN LANGUAGE CLASSES. The D.C. Public Library is offering free classes to learn American Sign Language. Beginner and intermediate courses available, with no need to register. The Northeast Neighborhood Library will offer beginning level classes 10-11 a.m. on Saturdays, Jan. 26-March 30 and April 27-June 28. Intermediate classes will be 11 a.m.-noon, also on those Saturdays. For a full list of classes, with libraries all over the district, email lbph.dcpl@dc.gov or call 202-559-5368.

 

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MORE IMPORTANT DATES

Jan. 7: 9:30 a.m., Payne open house

Jan. 12: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Eastern Feeder Fest. All of Eastern High School’s feeder school are invited to learn more about the school at 1700 East Capitol St. N.E.

Jan. 14: 9:30 a.m., Payne open house

Jan. 15: PTSA meeting rescheduled for Jan. 29

Jan. 21-23: No school

Jan. 29: 6 p.m., PTSA meeting