Lyseth School Family Newsletter 

This week in gym class, students have been taking advantage of the snowy weather by going sledding! Outdoor winter play is a wonderful way for kids to stay active, build strength and coordination, and boost their mood—even on cold days. Sledding is a great gym activity because it encourages movement, balance, teamwork, and perseverance as students climb, slide, and cheer each other on. Best of all, it helps students develop a love of being active outdoors year-round while having a whole lot of fun!

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Spirit Week at Lyseth Next Week (2/11-13)

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🖤 Honoring Black History Month at Lyseth

Throughout Black History Month, Lyseth Elementary is taking time to reflect on and celebrate the important contributions of Black Americans. Each morning, our daily announcements begin by highlighting an influential African American and their impact on history, culture, science, or the arts. In classrooms, students are also exploring a wide range of contributions through discussions, lessons, and activities designed to build understanding, respect, and appreciation. These moments of learning help our students recognize the lasting influence of Black Americans and the importance of celebrating diverse voices in our school community.

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Lyseth World Cup, Next Friday, February 13th!

Students have been hard at work practicing their dribbling, passing, and shooting skills over the past few weeks. Among other topics, they have been learning about rules, positions, team strategies, and sportsmanship. ALL students grades 3-5 have been invited to participate in this event to culminate their skills. Those who do not wish to play will be spectating and cheering on their friends and classmates. At the end of each session students will have the opportunity to play against the Lyseth Staff Team. Please join us in experiencing the joy and passion that this community brings to the game of soccer!

Date: Friday, February 13th, 2026

Times:
5th Grade (9:30-10:15)
4th Grade (10:20-11:05)
3rd Grade (11:10-11:55)

Location: Lyseth Gym

Who: ALL students Grades 3-5 will either be playing or spectating. Families/friends are welcome to join in spectating! Upon arrival check in with the front office to sign in and then head down to the gym. 

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School Supplies Needed!

Lyseth is in need of the following items:

• Lysol wipes
• Tissues
• Sandwich baggies of all sizes

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Lyseth Needs Your Used Winter Gear!

We are looking for winter gear donations for students, especially snow pants and gloves. We will collect any donated items in the front office. And as always, please feel free to come peek in our lost and found for missing items. 

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Portland Public Schools Spanish Immersion Interest Survey

Portland Public Schools is exploring the addition of a Spanish-English dual-language immersion program at one of our elementary schools. This innovative program will give students a unique opportunity to develop fluency in both English and Spanish, beginning in kindergarten. To help us in this exploratory phase, we would like to gather input, gauge interest and review feedback from families and caregivers. Your insights will play a vital role in shaping the direction of this potential new program. Please take a moment to complete this survey by clicking here:

Why choose dual language immersion?

Bilingual proficiency: Students become fluent in both English and Spanish, opening doors to global opportunities.

Cultural awareness: Exposure to Spanish-speaking cultures enhances students' worldviews and respect for diversity.

Academic success: Research shows dual language programs support academic growth, problem-solving and cognitive skills

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Home Energy Assistance Program Online Application Resources

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) helps qualified homeowners and renters pay for heating costs. Benefits include assistance with fuel costs and emergency fuel delivery. You can also qualify for energy-related repairs and utility payments if you are eligible for HEAP.

Click here to fill out the online HEAP application.

https://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/energy/energydetails/home-energy-assistance-program-online-application-resources

https://www.waysidemaine.org/

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Looking Ahead — Calendar Highlights

Here are some important upcoming dates and events at Lyseth Elementary:

• February 12th--Lyseth PTA meeting 5:30-6:30 in the Library

• February 13 - Lyseth World Cup 9:30-12

• February 16-20 - School Closed for mid-winter break 

PTA CORNER and Upcoming Events

2/12 Next week: Monthly PTA Meeting w/childcare 5:30-6:30pm, Lyseth Library Click here to register for childcare or translation, or to ask a question Craft Night Tuesday February 10th  6:00pm - 7:00pm Lyseth Cafeteria   Join us for a fun filled evening of kids creating fun arts and crafts. for all Lyseth Families and Friends in the Lyseth Cafeteria! Want to help making craft night a success? This year we are looking for volunteers to help run tables with a PTA provided craft! We will provide an example of each craft and any necessary instructions that go with it. We also have space for any families who want to sponsor and run a craft table!  https://volunteersignup.org/9XH7H   The Lyseth PTA is excited to offer 2025-2026 Yearbooks for purchase to all Lyseth Students!  The Yearbook includes school photos of every grade, class candids, student artwork, photos from around the school, and a special section dedicated to our 5th Grade Students! Order yours today using the link below! **Attention 5th Grade Families!** Every 5th Grade Student will be gifted a memory book from the Lyseth PTA at the end of the year celebrations, but we do offer student dedications and love lines which can be purchased using the link below!  Memorybook Online Pay School Code: 971627M For more on the PTA, find us:  On the web: lysethpta.org On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LysethElementaryMEPTA/

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