Surprise News

Surprise Elementary School Eighth Grade Promotion Parent Meeting on April 11th at 5:30 PM.  

Teachers will discuss end of year activities, field trip, classroom expectations and promotion information at this meeting.  Parents are highly encouraged to attend.

Surprise Elementary School Site Council Meeting has been rescheduled for April 11, 2024 at 4:15 pm.

This Saturday, March 9, 2024, we invite you to attend the Dysart Festival of the Arts presented by Germain Honda of Surprise  held at Valley Vista High School from 10am-3pm.   This festival will consist of over 100 performances from all elementary and high school band, choir, theater, and dance programs along with a beautiful Art Showcase.  Free admission.

Surprise Elementary School will be closed for Spring Break March 18-22.  School resumes on March 25th at regular times.

Parents, students and families are invited to attend out Reading Night event on March 5th from 5:00 - 6:30 PM.  This annual event is fun for everyone.  We will have guest readers, games and some prizes.  We hope to see you there for all the fun!

Parents and students are invited to 21st CCLC Family Night on February 28th from 5:15-6:15 PM.  We invite you and your family to unwind from technology and enjoy playing some board games.  It is sure to be a night of fun and we hope to see you there!

Spring picture day will be on Friday, March 8th.  Students will recieve a QR code to take home and order directly from Grad's Photography online.  Parents will be emailed this QR code to the email address on file with the school.

This will be individual photos and class photos.

• Monday - Favorite Music Group
• Tuesday - Shirt Day - each grade wears the same color
• Wednesday - Disney Day
• Thursday - Favorite Sports Team
• Friday - Look like a tourist day (Spring Break March 18-22, 2024)

Please take a moment to complete the parent survey.  We want to hear from you.  It is estimated to take 5 minutes to complete.  

English: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/XVLWMF7 

Spanish: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/XVLWMF7?lang=es

Surprise Elementary School will be closed on Monday, February 19th in observance of President's Day.  School resumes on Tuesday, February 20th at regular times.

Parent Teacher Conference week will be held the week of February 5th.  Kindergarten through Eigth grade students will be dismissed at 1:45 pm on Thursday, February 8th and Friday, February 9th.  There are no preschool classes on Februrary 8th and 9th.

The Surprise Elementary School DCC will be sponsoring a Book Fair from February 5-9, 2024.  Times will be assigned for students to shop during the school day.  

The book fair will be open after school  for families to shop together on:

•  Tuesday, February 6th from 3:45 - 5:00 PM
• Thursday, February 8th from 3:45 - 5:00 PM

Be sure to take a moment to thank our bus drivers to getting our students to and from school safely every day.  

Thank you Drivers and Staff from Surprise Elementary School.

Order your 2023-2024 Surprise Elementary School yearbook today. Only $27.00!   

Limited Supply!  Yearbooks are first come first serve. No Guarantee

Important: Parents, please add your child's first and last name, grade level, and homeroom teacher where requested.  Without this information, your child's book may be delayed. All yearbooks will be delivered to your child's school in the spring.  Thank you!

Click on the link to the sales website or use the QR code image below.

To order from the QR:

• Select Shop Online  
• Choose city as El Mirage  
• School as Surprise Elementary

Outstanding Fees and Fines (including athletic fees, lost library book fines) payments are due. 

Outstanding Fees and Fines cannot be waived and will stay with your student throughout their time in Dysart.  If you have a library book fine and have the book, please return it to the office today.  If not, please pay the fine so we can replace the lost book.

Athletic/after school activity fees, if your student did not participate, please contact the office today to update your students account.  Athletic fees go back into our athletic teams and is used to purchase equipment and uniforms.  Athletic fees are under the Arizona State 

Tax Credit Contribution which supports local schools and you will receive a dollar for dollar state tax credit.  Community members can make these contributions also.  You do not need to have a student enrolled at a Dysart school for this benefit.  

To make a tax credit donation or pay for your students athletic fees, please click here. 

Eighth grade students must pay all fees and fines by April 25th in order to attend the end of year activities.  Outstanding fees and/or fines could delay the completion of enrollment at the high school. Payments can be paid through our online payment portal.  Your parent portal login is required to access the payment portal.  Don't have a parent portal, you can create one today.  Click here to create a parent portal login.

Surprise Elementary School students and their families are invited to our Arizona Science Center night on Wednesday, January 17th from 5:30 to 7:00pm in the school cafeteria. Please join us for an Astronomy Family Night where you will explore space with hands-on activities about planets, stars, and gravity. You might even get to view space through a telescope! We look forward to seeing you all on January 17th! 

Nos da mucho gusto invitar a nuestros estudiantes y familias de Primaria Surprise el Miércoles, 17 de Enero de 5:30 a 7:00pm a nuestra noche del Centro de Ciencias de Arizona en nuestra cafetería.  Acompáñenos a una Noche Astronómia en Familia donde podremos explorar distintos juegos y actividades sobre planetas, estrellas y gravedad.  ¡Tendrán la oportunidad de ver el espacio a través de un telescopio! ¡Esperamos verlos el 17 de Enero!

Surprise Elementary School will be closed on Monday, January 15th in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.  School resumes on Tuesday, January 16th at regular times.

Don't forget to read the Surprise Cubs January 2024 Newsletter today!

January Newsletter 23-24

January Newsletter 23-24 spa

This Friday, January 12th, Kona Ice will be for Kindergarten through 4th grade only.  

To accomodate the students who get Kona Ice and alleviate some of the congestion during recess, we have broken up the Kona Ice visits to once a month beginning Friday, December 15th.  

New dates are listed below:  

•  Kinder - 4th grade times would be 12 pm - 1:35 pm   Dates are January 12, February 9, March 8 and May 3  
•  5th - 8th grade times would be 11 am - 12:05 pm  Dates are January 26, February 23, March 29 and May 17 

Students must bring their money with them to school as they cannot call parents for money or be called out of class to get money.  

Please be aware that the release time for Surprise Elementary School on Friday, December 22 will now be at 12:00 p.m. We wanted to make you aware of this change as early as possible so you can arrange your schedule. 

Thank you! 

Surprise Elementary DCC is sponsoring a evening at Desert Farm Lights on December 26th.  

Purchase tickets at DesertFarmLights.com.  Use code "cubs" to receive 10% off tickets.  Surprise Elementary will receive 10% of every ticket purchase goes back to our school. 

Thank you for your support!

Surprise Elementary School will be closed from December 25 to January 8 for Winter Break.  School resumes on Tuesday, January 9th at regular times.

Reminders:

No preschool classes on December 21 and 22.

UPDATED DISMISSAL TIME - Early release day on December 22 at NOON for kindergarten - 8th grade students.

There will be no preschool classes on December 21 and 22. 

Surprise Elementary School will be closed from December 25 to January 8 for Winter Break.  School resumes on Tuesday, January 9th at regular times. Reminders:

 Early release day on December 22 at 1:45 pm for kindergarten - 8th grade students.

We are so proud to announce that Surprise Elementary School earned an “A” rating from the school accountability labels for the 2022-2023 school year! Surprise is one of 18 schools in the district to receive the “A” rating.  Additionally, Surprise ranked in the top 20% of schools  in the state. 

The school accountability labels measure year to year student academic growth, proficiency on English language arts, math and science, the proficiency and academic growth of English language learners, indicators that an elementary student is ready for success in high school and that high school students are ready to succeed in a career or higher education and high school graduation rates.

The Dysart Unified School District is happy to support a Canned Food Drive to support Valley View Community Food Bank.  We will be collecting canned food the week of October 30 through November 3rd.  Please drop off your donations in the office or in the bins located around our campus.   Thank you for your continued support!

The Surprise Elementary School Office will be closed for staff training on October 30th from 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm.  

• For enrollment, please visit the Dysart.org webpage and click on the Enroll Now tab.  You may also email our DRT at [email protected].  She will get back to you on Tuesday, October 31st when the office reopens at 8:00 am. 
• For attendance, please call 623-876-7403 to report and/or update any student absences.  
• For the school health office, please call 623-876-7404.  You can leave a message if she does not answer the call.

For any other questions, please call 623-876-7400 and leave a message.  Someone will get back to you when the office reopens on Tuesday, October 31st at 8:00 am.

Surprise Elementary School will be closed on Friday, November 10th in observance of Veteran's Day.  

Please remember to thank our Veteran's for their service.  

Surprise Elementary School will be closed for Thanksgiving Break, November 20th through November 24th.  School resumes on Monday, November 27th at regular times.

We wish you and your families a very Happy Thanksgiving.

Surprise Families are invited to our annual Thanksgiving Luncheon on Tuesday, November 14th during lunch times.  Cost for family members will be $3.50 per person, adult or child.  Students will pay for their lunches the way they do each day.  To RSVP, please call the office at 623-876-7400 with the number of family members attending.

Family members who would like to purchase a ticket for Thanksgiving Lunch are asked to arrive at least 10 minutes prior to their students scheduled lunch time.  Please refer to the flyer sent home with students.  

Surprise Elementary School will be closed for Fall Break October 9-13, 2023.  School resumes on October 16th at regular times.  

Surprise Elementary School will have parent teacher conferences the week of October 2 - 6.  

We will have early release days on October 5th and 6th at 1:45 pm for kindergarten through 8th grade.  There are no preschool classes on October 5th and 6th.

No preschool classes on October 5th and 6th for Surprise Elementary School Preschool Students.  Fall break is October 9-13, no school.  School will resume on October 16th at regular times.

This is a reminder that our DCC/PTO kickoff event is scheduled for Wednesday, September 27th from 5-5:30 pm in the courtyard.  

This event will provide some information on joining the Surprise Elementary School DCC/PTO for this year.  They will discuss fundraising and volunteer opportunities and officer opportunities for those who would like to become a member of the PTO board.   

Fall picture day is scheduled for October 19th.  This will be the photo in the yearbook for the 23-24 school year.  

Here is the pre-order link for families to purchase student's photos.  All orders will be done online only.

Grads Photography will be at  Surprise Elementary on October 19th 2023 for Fall Pictures.  PRE-ORDER your pictures

Surprise Elementary School is hosting a Trunk or Treat event on October 25th from 5 - 6:30pm.  Volunteers are needed to make this event successful.  Please contact the office if you would like to assist with Trunk or Treat at 623-876-7400.  Parent supervision required.

Kindergarten through 8th grade students will have early release on October 5th and 6th at 1:45 pm.  

Fall break is October 9-13, no school.

WE NEED YOUR HELP! 

 The past few years we have been partnering with the Dysart Community Coalition and this year it is time to branch out  and be our own PTSA. Looking for volunteers to help reform our School DCC (PTSA).  Goals for this is to support students of Surprise in areas of classroom, recess, and fun family events like a bingo night or movie night.  

An interest form will be going home with students the week of September 5th.  Please complete the form and return it to the office or you can contact the DCC directly by emailing [email protected].  Or call the office at 623-876-7400 and leave your name and contact information that will be shared with our DCC.

Areas help is needed are:

• Becoming an officer of the PTO
• Attending meetings for DCC/PTO
• Volunteering at Trunk or Treat
• Volunteering at a Bingo Night or Movie Night
• Volunteering with our Butter braids fundraiser
• Volunteer at the Spring Book Fair

Without volunteers none of this will be possible.

Surprise Elementary School is committed to encouraging family and community involvement.  

One way to become involved is to join the Surprise Elementary School Site Council.  We are looking for some interested family and community members to serve as an advisory committee that will meet the needs of our  students.  Site Council consists of parents, teachers, classified staff member and the site principal. 

 If you are interested in joining, please respond by email to [email protected] or by phone call to the front office at 623.876.7400 by Wednesday, September 13, 2023.  

The first Site Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at 4:15 pm.  

En Espanol:

Primaria Surprise esta comprometida a alentar familias a participar en la comunidad. Una forma de involucrarse es como miembro del concilio de Sitio de Primaria Surprise.  

Estamos buscando algunos familiars interesados y miembros de la coumunidad para servIr como parte de un Comite Consultativo que satisfaga las necesidades de nuestros estudiantes. El Concilio consta de padre, maestros, trabajadores y el director de la escuela.  

Si está interesado en unirse, responda por correo electrónico a [email protected] o por teléfono a la oficina principal al 623.876.7400 antes del Miercoles 13 de Septiembre de 2023. 

La primera reunión del Consejo del Sitio está programada para el Miercoles, 27 de Septiembre de 2023 a las 4:15 pm.  

We held our annual Title I presentation during our Curriculum Night on August 22nd.  If you happened to have missed it, here is a copy of the presentation for your review.  SUPES Title I Presentation 2023 (1)

Surprise Elementary School will be closed on Monday, September 4th for Labor Day.  School resumes on Tuesday, September 5th at regular times.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to complete the Free and Reduced Lunch applications online at www.schoolcafe.com and it must be completed each year. You will need the student's Id number and this can be found in your parent portal.  If you have any questions, please contact the school office at 623-876-7400 or the Nutrition office at 623-876-7989.

Parents and guardians, please refer to the updated student dress code found here.  These changes are effective for the 23-24 school year.

Kona Ice will be returning to Surprise Elementary School beginning on August 11th.  

Surprise Elementary School Flyer - Aug 11th & 25th

Prices for Kona Ice range from $4.00 - $7.00, reusable cups are available for purchase.  Students should bring cash to purchase their Kone Ice.  

Students must have lunch before purchasing their Kona Ice.

Additional dates include:

August 11th & 25th   

 September 8th & 22nd   

 October 6th & 20th   

 November 3rd & 17th   

 December 1st & 15th   

 January 12th & 26th   

 February 9th & 23rd   

 March 8th & 29th   

 April 12th   

 May 3rd & 17th

Dear Team Surprise Families, 

Each year, school districts are required to verify student information. In order to do so, we ask that you view and complete the Annual Student Update via the Parent Portal online. We want to ensure that we can communicate with families regarding their student, or in the case of an emergency, so it is essential that we have accurate and up-to-date contact information. 

The Annual Student Update will allow you to confirm or update your contact information, address, student health and emergency contact information and preferences.  Parents/Guardians may also complete all annual acknowledgements online in the update.  Available for review are the Electronic Information Services (EIS) User Agreement, 2023-2024 Student Parent Handbook and Hearing and Visions Screening Information. A Parent Portal account is needed to complete the Annual Student Update.  The Parent Portal can be a great tool for parents to stay informed 24/7 about their child’s academic progress. Grades, attendance, assignments, and more are viewable in real time online or via the app. Parents with multiple students in the district have a single login to access information for all of their children in one place. 

The Campus Parent app is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Amazon. If you don’t already have an account, you may sign up for one at Dysart.org/ParentPortal.  

Please complete your Annual Student Update before August 15, 2023 in 3 easy steps:   

1. Log into the Campus Parent app or your online Parent Portal account at Dysart.org/parentportal   
2. Click on "Annual Student Update"   
3. Click on the “Register New/Update Existing Information” button to begin 
4.  Remember to hit save/complete at the end so we receive your updates  

 En Espanol, 

Queridas familias de Surprise Elementary, Cada año, los distritos escolares deben verificar la información de los estudiantes. Para hacerlo, le pedimos que vea y completar la Actualización anual para estudiantes a través del Portal para padres en línea. Queremos asegurarnos de poder comunicarnos con las familias con respecto a su estudiante, o en el caso de una emergencia, por lo que es esencial que tengamos información de contacto precisa y actualizada. 

La Actualización Anual de Estudiantes le permitirá confirmar o actualizar su información de contacto, dirección, salud del estudiante e información y preferencias de contacto de emergencia.Los padres/tutores también pueden completar todos los reconocimientos anuales en línea en la actualización. Están disponibles para su revisión el Acuerdo de usuario de los Servicios de información electrónica (EIS), el Manual para padres y estudiantes de 2023-2024 y la Información de evaluación de la vista y la audición.Se necesita una cuenta del Portal de Padres para completar la Actualización Anual del Estudiante. El Portal para Padres puede ser una gran herramienta para que los padres se mantengan informados las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana, sobre el progreso académico de sus hijos. Las calificaciones, la asistencia, las tareas y más se pueden ver en tiempo real en línea o mediante la aplicación. Los padres con varios estudiantes en el distrito tienen un solo inicio de sesión para acceder a la información de todos sus hijos en un solo lugar. 

La aplicación Campus Parent está disponible en iTunes, Google Play y Amazon. Si aún no tiene una cuenta, puede registrarse para obtener una en Dysart.org/ParentPortal. 

Completar su Actualización anual para estudiantes antes del 15 de agosto de 2023 en 3 sencillos pasos:  

1. Inicie sesión en la aplicación Campus Parent o en su cuenta del Portal para padres en línea en Dysart.org/parentportal 
2.  Haga clic en "Actualización anual de estudiantes" 
3.  Haga clic en el botón "Registrar nueva/Actualizar información existente" para comenzar 
4.  Recuerde presionar guardar/completar al final para que recibamos sus actualizaciones

Beginning July 28th parents can find out who their students teachers are for the school year. You will need access to your parent portal accounts. Simply login to your portal and you can see their schedule.  If you don't have an account, you can create one today at  Parent Portal and follow the instructions.  Need help, please contact the office at 623-876-7400.   Be sure to check our website and social media for important beginning of the school year information including optional supply lists.  We look forward to seeing you soon.

Instructions to create your parent porta account.

A partir del 28 de julio, los padres pueden averiguar quiénes son los maestros de sus alumnos para el año escolar. Necesitará acceso a sus cuentas del portal para padres. Simplemente inicie sesión en su portal y podrá ver su horario. Si no tiene una cuenta, puede crear una hoy en Parent Portal y seguir las instrucciones. Si necesita ayuda, comuníquese con la oficina al 623-876-7400. Asegúrese de consultar nuestro sitio web y las redes sociales para obtener información importante sobre el comienzo del año escolar, incluidas las listas de útiles opcionales. Esperamos verte pronto.

Instrucciones para crear su cuenta del portal para padres.

Surprise Elementary School Meet The Teacher Night event is scheduled for August 1, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM.  You are invited to visit the classrooms and meet the teachers.  We will have staff on hand to help with enrollment questions. We look forward to seeing you there.  First day of school is August 3, 2023.

The first day of school is Thursday, August 3rd. The day begins with breakfast in the classrooms beginning at 8:45 am.  Our school day begins promptly at 9:00 am.

Beginning July 28th, parents can check their parent portals for their students schedules and find out who their child's teacher is.  Our Meet the Teacher Night is scheduled for Tuesday, August 1st from 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm.  Parents/students will need to know who their teachers are before they arrive for Meet the Teacher Night event.  Lists will not be posted, please refer to your parent portal/student account prior to attending. Questions, please contact the office at 623-876-7400 or email us at [email protected].

We look forward to seeing you soon. 

Optional Elementary Student Supply List

Surprise Elementary School is pleased to announce that we received a compliance score of 100% for our 21st CCLC (Century Community Learning Centers) grant from the site visit that took place during the 2022-2023 school year. This grant helps fund before and after school tutoring and enrichment classes for students in Kindergarten through 8th grade. It also helps fund our Summer Learning program. The Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) Title IVB program is funded by a federal grant from the U.S. Department of Education and administered by the Arizona Department of Education. For more information visit: http://www.azed.gov/21stcclc/

Spirit Week May 8-12 - Sunny Days Ahead, Wear Your Brightest Colors to school each day!

Thank you to the Team Surprise Staff for the hard work you do every day!  You are appreciated!

Wear your favorite Disney, Marvel or DC Comics Character Shirts each day.

Spirit Week May 22-24 - Vacation Week, dress like you are going on vacation!

The 22-23 Surprise Elementary School Yearbook is on sale now for only $25.  Online sales only.  Limited quantities, be sure to order yours today! Sales end April 28th, 2023!

Step 1: Visit gradsyearbook.com

Step 2: Select shop online. Select your location (El Mirage) and school (Surprise)

Step 3: Follow the online instructions!

Outstanding Fees and Fines (including athletic fees, lost library book fines) payments due April 28, 2023.  Fees will not be waived and will stay with your student throughout their time in Dysart.  If you have a library book fine and have the book, please return it to the office today.  Athletic/after school activity fees, if your student did not participate, please contact the office today to update your students account.  

Athletic fees go back into our athletic teams and is used to purchase equipment and uniforms.  Athletic fees are under the Arizona State Tax Credit Contribution which supports local schools and you will receive a dollar for dollar state tax credit.  Community members can make these contributions also.  You do not need to have a student enrolled at a Dysart school for this benefit.  To make a tax credit donation or pay for your students athletic fees, please click here.

Eighth grade students must pay all fees and fines by April 28th in order to attend the end of year field trip on May 2nd.  Outstanding fees and/or fines could delay the completion of enrollment at the high school.

Payments can be paid through our online payment portal.  Your parent portal login is required to access the payment portal.  Don't have a parent portal, you can create one today.  Click here to create a parent portal login.

K-8 students will be dismissed at Noon on May 23rd and 24th.  The last day of school is May 24th.

There are no preschool classes on May 23rd and 24th.

We are currently enrolling for the 23-24 school year.  Click here to begin your enrollment today.

Upcoming Summer Learning:

June 5-29 - Summer Learning for students who have been invited and turned in a completed permission slip

July 17-18 - Kindergarten Experience

You are invited to attend the last meeting of the last Dysart Community Coalition (DCC) meeting is on Wednesday April 26th at 4:15 pm at El Mirage Elementary School.  Elections will be held for the officers for the upcoming 23-24 school year.  Without your participation we are in danger of losing this support. 

The Dysart Community Coalition (DCC) supports Surprise Elementary, Thompson Ranch Elementary, El Mirage Elementary and Riverview Elementary.   The DCC members support students and staff by raising funds through various fundraisers such as arranging book fairs and cookie dough sales.  Funds raised have a specific purpose such as playground recess equipment including balls, jump ropes, etc.

We hope to see you there!

8th grade Panoramic Photo:  April 27th.  Information about ordering this photo will be sent closer to the photo date. 

Main Event Field Trip - Tuesday, May 2nd: 8th grade field trip to Main Event in Avondale.  Below are the requirements for this field trip.  

• FEE and SIGNED PERMISSION SLIP DUE TODAY (were DUE by FRIDAY, FEB. 24TH, so please get yours in quickly!)  
• Students may not be failing any classes, including specials, in Quarter 4. (Grade check will be done May 1st after 1:45 pm; work turned in after 1:45 pm will NOT be added into the grade for the field trip). 
• No Out-of-School suspensions (OSS) in Quarter 4 (referral check done May 1st).  
• If a student is Out-of-School suspended (OSS) or in On-Campus Relocation (OCR) the day of the trip, the student will not be allowed to attend. 
• If a student is ineligible to participate in the field trip parents can request a refund, by written request only, if a student is not eligible or unable to attend field trip.  Requests for refund will be for the field trip only.
• All fees owed are due by Friday, April 28th.  
• You may pay outstanding fees and fines through our online payments portal (credit/debit cards) or in the school office (cash/check only.)  
• Outstanding ledgers have been sent home with students and can also be reviewed in the parent portal.

8th Grade Promotion at Surprise Elementary School - Wednesday, May 24, 2023 from 9:30 - 10:30 am  -  

• School Dress Code will be followed.  
• Tickets will be required for guests and will be given out on Monday, May 22nd.  
• Parent Promotion meeting - was held on April 4th.  
• Promotion Requirements: 
  
•  Students may not be failing any classes, including specials, in Quarter 4. (Grade check will be done May 19th after 3:45 pm; work turned in after 3:45 pm will NOT be added into the grade for the promotion ceremony). 
• No Out-of-School suspensions (OSS) in Quarter 4 (referral check done May 19th).  
• If a student is Out-of-School suspended (OSS) or in On-Campus Relocation (OCR) the day of promotion, May 24th, the student will not be allowed to attend the ceremony. 
• All fees owed are due by Friday, April 28th. 
• You may pay outstanding fees and fines through our online payments portal (credit/debit cards) or in the school office (cash/check only.)   Outstanding ledgers have been sent home with students and can also be reviewed in the parent portal.
• NOTE:  Each family will receive 4 tickets for guests; children 2 and under will not need a ticket, but all other guests will need a ticket.
  

If you have any questions regarding these events, please contact Mrs. Cox at [email protected] or call the school office at 623-876-7400.

Surprise Elementary Kinder Experience will be held July 17-20, 2023 from 8 AM to 11 AM.  Your child will explore reading and math instruction while learning routines, procedures, and expectations needed for making friends and having a successful school experience. This will help with their transition into school and ease their anxiety as they begin a new school year!

Click here to register for Kindergarten Experience or call the school office at 623-876-7400.

Not registered for kindergarten yet, click here to complete your registration for the 23-24 school year.  If your student is currently enrolled at Surprise Elementary School they will automatically be registered into Kindergarten.  If you do not live within our boundaries, you will need to apply for open enrollment. 

Surprise Kinder Experience Flyer 2023

March 25, 2023 - Festival of Arts event at Valley Vista High School from 10 am - 3 pm

March 29, 2023 - 21st CCLC Family Event - AZ Science Center Astronomy Night in the school cafeteria from 5:15 pm - 7 pm

April 2023 - AASA testing takes place throughout the entire month of April.  Look for communication from your students teacher for testing dates.

April 4, 2023 - 8th grade promotion parent meeting

April 7, 2023 - Spring Holiday - No School

April 21, 2023 - Celebrate our Military Families and wear purple today

Surprise Elementary School will be closed on Friday, April 7th for Spring Holiday.  School resumes on Monday, April 10th at regular times.

Update to Thursday's Spirit Day - Due to Spring Picture Day our Spirit Day for Thursday will be Dress Up Day - Dress to Impress!  Wear your best outfits and smile for your Spring Picture!

Surprise Elementary families are invited to Reading Night on Thursday, March 2nd from 5-6:30 PM.  There will be guest readers, games, and loads of fun.  Student Council will selling limited supply of Surprise Elementary Spirit T-Shirts for only $10.  Cash and exact change only. We hope to see you there!

Surprise Elementary School will be closed for Spring Break March 13-17.  School resumes on March 20 at regular times.

Wishing you a happy and safe Spring Break.

Surprise Elementary School students will have Spring Picture Day on Thursday, March 9th.  Students can pay for their photos online only.  Link to order pictures will be shared with families soon.

• Thursday, March 2 - Dress like your favorite Character during the day and join us for Reading Night from 5-6:30 PM that evening.
• Friday, March 3 - Superhero Day - Dress like your favorite Superhero
• Monday, March 6 - Spring Training Day - Dress like your favorite Baseball Player or Team
• Tuesday, March 7 - Twin Day
• Wednesday, March 8 - Wacky Hair Day
• Thursday, March 9 - Throwback Day to the 2000's - From NSYNC to Brittney Spears, wear your best turn of the century outfits
• Friday, March 10 - fryYAY! Spring Break is here!  Wear your best vacation outfit, dress like a tourist

Bring your family and friends to the McDonald's on Litchfield and Waddell between 5:00-7:00 PM.  Order on the app, drive-thru or order inside and a portion of sales from McTeacher Night will be donated to Surprise Elementary.

Surprise Elementary School students will be dismissed at 1:45 PM on Thursday, February 9 and Friday, February 10 due to Parent Teacher Conference Week.

Reminders:

There are no preschool classes on February 9 and 10.

There will be no Tutoring classes this week.

Surprise Elementary School will be closed on February 20th in observance of Presidents Day.  School resumes on February 21 at regular times.

Parent Teacher Conferences will be scheduled the week of February 6-10, 2023.  This is a great opportunity to meet with your student's teacher and discuss grades, how they are doing in school, ask questions and learn about the classroom.  We look forward to seeing you then.

Reminders:

Early Release Days Thursday, February 9 and Friday February 10 at 1:45 PM

No Preschool Classes on Thursday, February 9 and Friday, February 10

No Tutoring Classes Monday February 6 through Friday, February 10

Scholastic Book Fair will be open after school Monday February 6 through February 10

Happy New Year from Surprise Elementary School.  

We hope you had a wonderful holiday season.  We are looking forward to getting back to school on January 5, 2023.  There are many fun events scheduled in the upcoming months including a Scholastic Book Fair, Reading Nights, Peter Piper Pizza Fundraiser night and much more. Here is our January 2023 Newsletter so you can see what is happening when we return from Winter Break.

Surprise Elementary will be closed for Winter Break, December 21, 2022 through January 4, 2023.  School resumes on Thursday, January 5, 2023 at regular times.

Contact information during Winter Break -

Attendance line - 623-876-7403, you can leave a message 24 hours a day/7 days a week

Enrollments information - please refer to the Dysart.org website and click on the Enroll tab.  If you have questions on enrollment, you can email us at [email protected] and we will get back to you when we return in January.

Surprise Elementary School Reading Night, December 8, 2022 from 5-6:30 PM

The theme is Candyland, families will follow the "board" around the campus to enjoy activity stations and guest readers.  Students will have make and take crafts. We will even have a visit from Santa, parents be sure to bring your cameras.

We look forward to having you there!

There will be no preschool classes on December 19th and 20th for Surprise Elementary School Students.

Preschool classes resume on January 5, 2023.

Wishing you all a Happy Holiday Season.

Surprise Elementary School Students will be dismissed at 1:45 PM pm on Monday, December 19th and Tuesday, December 20th.  There are no preschool classes on these days.

School will be closed from December 21, 2022 through January 4, 2023.  School resumes on Thursday, December 5, 2023 at regular times.

Payments for any outstanding fees and fines are due to be paid by January 15, 2023.  Students who do not pay outstanding fees and/or fines may not be permitted to play in future sports teams, clubs, 8th grade celebrations, etc.  Fees and fines are not waived and will follow the student throughout their high school days.

Payments can be paid through the online payment portal, by logging into your parent portal, or paying in person in the school office.

Online payments can be paid with a credit or debit card on the online payment portal, this is the preferred way. 

If you have questions regarding any outstanding fines or fees, please contact the school office at 623-876-7400 or by email to [email protected].

Is your student missing their jacket, lunchbox, etc?  Please check the lost and found soon.  We will have a rack of lost and found items in front of the school at arrival and dismissal beginning December 12, 2022.  Please stop by and check if anything belongs to your student.

Items remaining when we return from Winter Break in January 2023 will be donated.

Surprise Elementary School will be closed Nov 21-25 for Thanksgiving Break.  School resumes on Monday, Nov 28 at regular times.

We wish you and your families a very Happy Thanksgiving.

The Surprise Elementary DCC is sponsoring a night at Desert Farm Lights  located at 14629 W Peoria Ave, Waddell, AZ 85355.   Surprise Elementary will receive 15% of net sales from that evening.  We hope to see you there.

Click here to see the flyer

Surprise Elementary School will be closed on Friday, November 11th in observance of Veteran's Day.  

We would like to say thank you to all of the Veterans' for their sacrifice.

School resumes on Monday, November 14th at regular times.

Butterbraids orders are due on Monday, October 31st.  Deliver date is scheduled for November 15th after school.

Thank you for your support!

P.S. the next DCC meeting is on November 9th at 4 PM at the El Mirage Elementary School library.

Spirit Week is October 31st through November 4th

Monday - dress like your favorite book character (no masks or Halloween costumes permitted)

Tuesday - twin day, Keep calm and dress like your friend today

Wednesday - Crazy sock day

Thursday - Sports day, wear your favorite sports team jerseys, colors and show your spirit

Friday - Surprise Spirit Day, wear your favorite schools spirit wear or colors

We are so excited to invite Surprise Elementary School's students and their families to our next 21st CCLC "Up and Beyond Academy" Parent Engagement Night. This will take place on Wednesday, November 2nd from 5:15 to 6:15pm. Please come and join us in learning how to spread kindness at school, including a fun activity. It will be a great time! We look forward to seeing you all on November 2nd! 

Thank you, Shannon Garner 21st CCLC Coordinator 

Estamos muy contentos de poder invitar a los estudiantes y familias de Primaria Surprise a nuestra próxima reunión de Enlace Familiar de nuestra academia Up and Beyond del Programa de 21st Century. La reunión es el Miércoles 2 de Noviembre de 5:15-6:15pm.  Acompáñenos a desparramar actos de bondad en nuestra escuela y hacer una actividad divertida.   ¡Esperamos verlos el 2 de Noviembre! Gracias, Shannon Garner Coordinadora de 21st CCLC

Bring the attached flyer to Peter Piper and the school receives 15% of the sale.  Enjoy and thank you for your support!

Peter Piper Flyer

 Dysart Unified School District invites parents and students to a Career and College Expo on Wednesday, October 26 from 5:30 - 7:30pm at the Dysart District Office, located at 15802 N. Parkview Place in Surprise.  

The expo showcases Dysart's Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, West-MEC, colleges and universities, and military representatives so families can explore opportunities to pursue in and after high school. This is a great way for 5th through 11th grade students and their parents to get hands-on with all of the career pathway classes and programs offered at Dysart Schools. The event is free and open to the public. Details can be found at www.dysart.org/CTEexpo. 

Dysart Schools currently offer 17 CTE programs at four high schools (Dysart High School, Shadow Ridge High School, Valley Vista High School, and Willow Canyon High School.) Program options include Automotive Technology, Culinary Arts, Digital Animation, Digital Photography, Education Professions, Engineering, Film and TV Production, Fire Science, Graphic Design, Laboratory Assisting, Law and Public Safety, Marketing, Nursing Services, Software and App Design, Sports Medicine, Stagecraft Design and Production and Technology Device Maintenance. Learn more at www.dysart.org/CTE. 

Surprise Elementary on 10/20/2022 for Fall Pictures.  

 You may PRE-ORDER your pictures. The school will not be collecting any payments.

Under the current limited contact conditions, online is the preferred method of ordering. It is Easy, Secure and Safe. Your student will receive a specific QR code on picture day to order their Fall pictures.     Please note that, school dress code will be in effect.    If you have any questions, please call Grads Photography at 623.580.4723. Social distancing and other precautions will be taken during the event for everyone's safety.

The Site Council Meeting that was to held on September 29th was cancelled due to not having enough people to attend.  This meeting has been rescheduled to October 27 at 4:15 PM.  The agenda will remain the same. 

We are looking for some interested family and community members to serve as an advisory committee that will meet the needs of our  students.  Site Council consists of parents, teachers, classified staff member and the site principal.   During this time, meetings will be through in person or Google Meets formats with an electronic vote for any agenda items. 

If you are interested in joining, please complete the form sent home with your student or email [email protected]  today.  Applications are in the front office.   

The first Site Council meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 29, 2022 (date change) in the Surprise Elementary School library at 4:15 pm.  

Site Council Agenda October 27, 2022 

Site Council Agenda September 29, 2022 - meeting cancelled

The Surprise Elementary September_October 2022 Newsletter is here.  Please read today for important school information.

Boletín sorpresa primaria septiembre_octubre 2022

Due to Parent Teacher Conferences, students will be dismissed on Thursday, October 6 and Friday, October 7 at 1:45 PM.  There are no preschool classes on October 6 and 7, 2022.

Surprise Elementary School will be closed for Fall Break October 10-14, 2022.  School resumes on Monday, October 17, 2022 at regular times.

Parent Teacher Conferences will be scheduled the week of October 3-7, 2022.  This is a great opportunity to meet with your student's teacher and discuss grades, how they are doing in school, ask questions and learn about the classroom.  We look forward to seeing you then.

Are you looking to get involved?  Consider joining the Dysart Community Coalition (DCC) Parent Organization.  The DCC supports Surprise Elementary School, El Mirage Elementary School, Riverview Elementary School and Thompson Ranch Elementary School.   

The first meeting the school year is on August 31st at 4:15 PM at El Mirage Elementary School.  This meeting will determine future meetings and discussions about upcoming fundraisers such as butterbraids.  The more members there, the more successful this organization will be.  Members and volunteers would be able to support in various ways such as counting or copying flyers, collecting orders and distributing them.  The more members we have will allow us to do fun family events such as Trunk or Treat.   

The parent interest forms are in the office, please stop by to pick up one today.  Please complete and either bring to the meeting or drop it off at the front office. We hope to see you there.  

The Dysart Community Coalition supports Surprise Elementary School, Riverview Elementary School, El Mirage Elementary School and Thompson Ranch Elementary School.  

The DCC, as it is known, is instrumental in arranging fundraisers supporting each individual school, family events such as Trunk or Treat and Scholastic Book Fairs to name a few.  

The DCC can only be successful with your help.  Get involved Team Surprise!  An interest form is being sent home with your student next week.  Please complete and turn into the front office or bring to the upcoming DCC meeting.

The DCC is in need of members and is having their first meeting the school year on August 31st at El Mirage Elementary School at 4:15 PM.  The agenda for that meeting will be to discuss upcoming fundraisers and ideas for family events, such as Trunk or Treat, for the school year.

We hope to see you there.

Surprise Elementary School will be closed on Monday, September 5, 2022 in observance of Labor Day.  

The Dysart Community Coalition is looking for members.  A parent interest form will be sent home with students for you to complete and return to the office or bring to the upcoming meeting on August 31st at El Mirage Elementary School at 4:15 PM.

Would you be available for any of the following events:

• Attend DCC Organization meetings, at least one
• Create and maintain a DCC Bulletin Board
• Create/design and/or sort flyers
• Work during the book fair, either before school, after school, during school
• Butterbraids fundraiser, hand out flyers, hand out orders on delivery day
• Participate in Trunk or Treat
• Teacher Appreciation

The more members we have the more successful we become.  Get Involved Team Surprise!  

Contact the office at 623-876-7400 or the DCC today to join.

Surprise Elementary School is committed to encouraging family and community involvement.  One way to become involved is to join the Surprise Elementary School Site Council.  We are looking for some interested family and community members to serve as an advisory committee that will meet the needs of our  students.  Site Council consists of parents, teachers, classified staff member and the site principal. 

 During this time, meetings will be through in person or Google Meets formats with an electronic vote for any agenda items.  

 If you are interested in joining, please complete the form sent home with your student or email [email protected]  by Friday, September 2, 2022.  Additional forms are in the front office.  

The first Site Council meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 22, 2022 in the Surprise Elementary School library at 4:15 pm.  

We hope you will join us to lean about the curriculum your students are studying in their classrooms.  

Beginning at 5:00 PM, Teachers will be presenting grade level curriculum and standards with a new session beginning every 15-20 minutes.  

At 5:45 PM, join Mrs. Burns and Mrs. Haser in the library for our annual Title I presentation. 

We look forward to seeing you there.

Optional Elementary Student Supply List 

 Arizona law requires that public schools provide the supplies required for academic success. All materials required for a student’s education will be provided by the Dysart Unified School District. This supply list represents general, optional items which you may supply at your discretion.  Please check with your K-8 school and child’s teacher for an optional supply list before purchasing any supplies. If you have questions regarding the optional supply list, please contact your K-8 school.

Kindergarten

1 – box 24 crayons 

 3 – pocket folders (solid color) 

 6 – glue sticks

 1 – large box of facial tissues

 12 – pencils (No. 2) 

 1 – box 8 color washable markers 

 2 – handheld erasers 

 2 - composition books 

 1 – pencil box

1st Grade 

 1 – box 24 crayons 

 1 – spiral notebook 

 1 – box 8 color washable markers 

 1 – pencil box 

12 – pencils (No. 2) 

 5 – pocket folders (solid color) 

 2 – handheld erasers

 6 – glue sticks 

 1 – large box of facial tissue

 2 – composition books

2nd Grade 

 1 – box 24 crayons 

 5 – pocket folders (solid color) 

 1 – pencil box  

 6 – glue sticks

 2 – composition books 

 2 – handheld erasers 

 1 – spiral notebook

 1 – large box of facial tissues

12 – pencils (No. 2) 

 1 - box 8 color washable markers

3rd Grade 

 1 – pkg 3x5 index cards

 2 – composition books 

 1 – box 24 crayons 

 1 – box 8 color washable markers 

 4 – glue sticks 

 1 – highlighter 

 1 – ruler (inches/centimeters) 

 1 – pencil box 

 1 – large box of facial tissues

 2 – handheld erasers 

12 – pencils (No. 2) 

 1 – spiral notebook

4th Grade 

 1 - pkg 3x5 index cards 

 2 - composition books 

 2 – highlighters (different colors)

 4 – glue sticks 

 2 – handheld erasers 

 1 – box 24 crayons 

 1 – pencil box 

 1 – large box facial tissues 

 1 – 3 subject spiral notebook

 1 – ruler (inches/centimeters)  

 12 – pencils (No. 2)

5th – 8th Grade 

12 – pencils (No. 2, non mechanical) 

 4 – highlighters (4 colors) 

1 – ruler (inches/centimeters) 

 1 – large box of facial tissues 

2 – pkgs 3x5 index cards

 2 – spiral notebooks 

1 - pkg blue/black/green/red pens 

2 – glue sticks 

Surprise Elementary School Meet The Teacher Night event is scheduled for August 1, 2022 from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM.  You are invited to visit the classrooms and meet the teachers.  We will have staff on hand to help with enrollment questions. We look forward to seeing you there.  First day of school is August 3, 2022.

We can't wait to see everyone back for the first day of school on August 3! Make sure you mark your calendars for event and activity dates and keep an eye on our new website for important information as the start of school approaches.

Our Meet the Teacher night will be on August 1 from 5:00-6:30pm. Please join us to see the campus, meet your child's teachers, and get information on what to expect this year. 

Still need to enroll? There's still time to get your children enrolled for the 2022-2023 school year! Parents and guardians can complete the necessary registration information online at Dysart.org/enroll at any time.  Please note that in order to finalize registration the following documents will be required: government issued photo identification; birth certificate; proof of residency; and immunization records. For additional assistance with student registration, families are welcome to contact our front office.

Don't forget to make sure you have access to the Parent Portal to keep up with your child’s academic progress throughout the year! Sign up or access the site online at Dysart.org/parentportal or via the Campus Parent app. 

Dysart Schools have many opportunities for the community to assist schools in providing an amazing educational experience to each and every student. Volunteers help to enrich children’s learning opportunities, provide individual attention to children who need one-on-one assistance, promote a school-home-community partnership for quality education, provide staff members with more time to work with students, and assist staff members and support personnel with non-instructional tasks.

Where is Help Needed?

• Classroom and teacher support 
• One-on-one student assistance 
• Event help (preparations, setup, operations, tear-down)  
• Guest speakers (experts or retirees in various fields) 
• Front office assistance

How to Become a Volunteer:

1. Review the volunteer handbook and complete the volunteer application at Dysart.org/Volunteer 
2. Make an appointment for your volunteer orientation 
3. Coordinate your schedule through the school office 
4. Put on your volunteer badge and have fun!

Who Should Apply to Volunteer?

Anyone who cares about children and education is a potential volunteer. Parents, grandparents and community members 18 years of age or older who want to make a difference in the lives of children and support educators are encouraged to apply to become a volunteer with Dysart Unified School District. Volunteers are welcome in all of our schools and prior teaching experience is not necessary.

Learn more or apply here.

Dysart Nutrition Services ensures that students at all schools have fresh, wholesome and nutritious breakfast and lunch options to support their education and focus in class. Learn more about Nutrition Services at Dysart.org/Nutrition. Menus and nutritional information may be viewed at Dysart.Nutrislice.com.

Apply for Free and Reduced Meals

Beginning July 1, 2022 the USDA is returning to income eligibility guidelines for free or reduced meals. All families should complete a Free and Reduced Lunch Application at SchoolCafe.com to help maintain school funding and make sure that qualified families receive this and other benefits. Only one application is required per family, and may be completed at SchoolCafe.com.

How to Add Meal Funds to an Account

Cash and checks are accepted for meal purchases, or families may utilize SchoolCafe.com to prepay for meals online, view their balances, or place restrictions on purchases. Online payments take 24 hours to post to student accounts.  

Meal Prices 

• Elementary Lunch $2.60, Reduced $.40, Adult $3.50  
• Elementary Breakfast $1.25, Reduced $.30, Adult $1.75  High School Lunch $2.85, Reduced $.40, Adult $3.50  
• High School Breakfast $1.25, Reduced $.30, Adult $1.75 

A la carte and snack items are available for purchase on each campus, and additional meals are available for an added charge. Parents are always welcome to dine with their child, but please be sure to call in advance and check-in at the school office. Adult meals may be purchased for $1.75 for breakfast or $3.50 for lunch. 

Dysart is the largest employer in both the cities of Surprise and El Mirage with over 2,700 employees. Dysart Schools offer highly competitive salaries, full benefits and an inviting school-year calendar with holidays and weekends off for most positions. 

With a wide-variety of positions ranging from groundskeeper, to mechanic, to office staff, and teachers, we’re always looking for great people to join our Dysart team!

Current High Need Areas: 

•  Bus Drivers and Aides
•  Childcare and Preschool Aides
•  Paraprofessionals
•  Behavioral Technicians 
•  Speech and Language Pathologists 
•  Special Education Teachers 
•  Math Teachers 
•  Science Teachers 
•  ASL Teachers 
•  Health Services Assistants 
•  Crossing Guards 
•  Maintenance Workers and Plant Managers 
•  Social Workers

Check out our current openings at Dysart.org/Careers and apply today!

The Parent Portal is a great tool to stay informed 24/7 about your child’s academic progress. Grades, attendance, assignments and more are viewable in real time online or via the app, Campus Parent. A single login allows parents with multiple students to access information for all of their children in one place. Learn more at Dysart.org/ParentPortal.

Update Your Communication Preferences and Contact Info

To make sure that we can keep you informed in emergency situations, please ensure that your contact information is current in the Parent Portal. You are also able to adjust your communication preferences (phone, text, and/or email) at Dysart.org/ParentPortal or on the Campus Parent app to ensure you are getting the various message types in the way that you would like. Remember that if you select more than one type of communication per category, you will receive the message multiple times via each of those avenues.

Surprise Elementary School recently partnered with the Surprise Youth Foundation for a school supply drive ahead of the new school year. Surprise Elementary staff and students, along with Dysart superintendent Dr. Quinn Kellis, City of Surprise Mayor Skip Hall, City Council member Patrick Duffy, and volunteers from the Surprise Youth Foundation, worked together to fill 20 shopping carts with school supplies at the Walmart Supercenter on Bell Road. 

This was the fourth year the district has partnered with the Surprise Youth Foundation for a supply drive benefiting our schools.

The Surprise Youth Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to youth assistance through partnerships with nonprofits, public, and private entities.