^{Written by}

^{Beth Farrah, SMT Writer}

Essex, Missouri - Today marked the end of the third quarter and students’ report cards will be mailed out next Friday. They will most likely be available on or after March 24^th. Elementary report cards will be sent home with each student.

Elementary News from Principal Mrs. Cara Merritt:

Despite the snow, ice, and frigid temperatures, the end of Third Quarter has finally arrived! As we move forward into Fourth Quarter, and hopefully warmer weather, it is important that we bring the same energy and enthusiasm that we brought with us at the beginning of the school year. Fourth Quarter plans to be a busy time here at Richland Elementary. Students and teachers are gearing up for the spring assessments, our volleyball players are preparing for an exciting season, and we are all counting down the days until we can enjoy our new playground in the springtime weather and participate in the end of the year activities.

The elementary student of the month for March is Shelby Mayabb. Shelby is in the fifth grade and is eleven years old and she has displayed excellent acts of kindness towards her classmates and has made very good grades throughout the year! Congratulations to Shelby and all the other contestants!

Kindergarten and Preschool Screening:

Our kindergarten and preschool screening will be held on March 27^th. Children residing in our school district that will be five years of age before August 1^st, 2014 will be able to enroll in the 2014-2015 Kindergarten Class. Children that will turn three or four years of age before August 1^st, 2014 will be eligible for screening and possible placement in our new Preschool Program. Preschool enrollment will be based on age and screening results. Children who turn four years of age before August 1^st, 2014 will be enrolled first, and depending on how many openings are available, three year olds will then be considered based on screening results. Students who will be placed in the preschool will be contacted by telephone by the elementary office no later than July 1^st. Please call the elementary office if you have any questions and to schedule a screening appointment. We are very excited about this new program and are looking forward to welcoming our young students to Richland!

Dates to remember:

Monday, March 17^th marks the beginning of third quarter

March 18^th is the Essex Development Chicken Dumpling Dinner

March 21^st is Elementary Class Picture Day

March 27^th is Kindergarten/Preschool Screening

March 28^th school will NOT be in session

April 4^th is the school talent show

 Photo taken by Rebel Yearbook Staff Member