Dragon Digest

A monthly newsletter curated by our Family Liaison

February 8, 2024


Dear Yu Ying Families,


Happy Chinese New Year and Happy Black History Month.  The month of February is alive at Yu Ying with celebrations of the contributions of people from African descent in the United States as well as a celebration of the Year of The Dragon in Chinese culture!  Yu Ying and our Parent Association have many opportunities to engage, from events and activities around our city, to events and activities taking place right on our very own campus.  There is something for everyone!


We are also in the last three weeks to enroll in the lottery via MySchoolDC. Yu Ying students who will enter 6th grade next year will need to apply via the lottery to enroll at DCI or other public school options in DC.  If your family has siblings who will begin PreK next year at Yu Ying, the sibling will need to apply via the lottery. Here is the link to My School DC.  Feel free to contact enrollment@washingtonyuying.org with any questions you may have. 


Read on for upcoming Black History Month events, Chinese New Year activities, and the MySchoolDC lottery!


Cheers, 


Ayanna Free, Family Liaison

Email: ayanna.free@washingtonyuying.org

Phone: 202-635-1950, ext. 204 Mobile: (443) 422-3633


Virtual Office Hours ( via Google Meet): 

Fridays, 2 - 4 PM (by appt, please text) 

Thursdays 8-9 PM (by request only 

Video link: https://meet.google.com/puf-nxfb-uuh.


Privacy and Security Disclosure: Allow 5-10 minutes for a response, just in case I am in a meeting with another family.  With discretion, I may ask security questions to verify identity before discussing student information online.


**ATTENTION, PLEASE!** ACTION ITEMS


NEWS YOU CAN USE


DC School Based Oral Health Program Comes to Yu Ying

DC Health’s School-Based Oral Health Program will be providing a make-up date for preventative dental services onsite in the next few weeks. Services include: Dental screenings and cleanings, fluoride treatments & dental sealants, outreach & oral health education, and care coordination if needed. Department of Health contracted dentists will also update your child’s mandated Oral Health Assessment Form at the conclusion of the dental visit. All school-based dental services are provided at no out-of-pocket costs to families. Requirements: A completed consent form signed by a parent or guardian.  If your child was not seen in January, and you would like a slot, complete the online form located here


Learn 24 Out of School Time Scholarships : Applications OPEN

In an effort to ensure families have access to out of school time programs, scholarships of up to $10,000 are available for individual students for use in approved activities that occur between February 1st-September 30, 2024. The minimum scholarship award is $1,000, maximum award is $10,000.  If you are interested in applying, have questions, or need help, let us know. More information can be found here.  The link to create an account and apply can be found here. Time and funding are limited, please create an account and apply as soon as possible. 


YU YING GALA 

Celebrating 16 years of operations, The Yu Ying Gala is an event for parents and community partners that celebrates our programs.  There is food, music, an auction, and fun events for all. It promises to be a night of unforgettable experiences. We anticipate 250 to 300 guests, including prominent community leaders, business professionals, and cultural figures. The evening will feature networking, entertainment, and a lively auction. Find out more information at the Yu Ying Gala website by clicking here.  


My School DC Parent Information Resources

Did you know that My School DC has recorded video assistance that provides information and help shared during the lottery information sessions? To learn more about the lottery application process for the 2024-25 school year using video resources, click here to access videos and additional information.


Winter Clothing and Weather Protection Resources

If your family did not complete a coat drive form, but would like to receive resources for winter weather protection, please let us know using this link.  We will do our best to provide a resource for your family.


Attendance

On time attendance is important for your child’s educational growth and development as well as their social and emotional development.  


  COMMUNITY RESOURCES AND EVENTS


UPCOMING EVENTS AND IMPORTANT DATES


---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

January 19, 2024


Dear Yu Ying Families,


Welcome back! Our school is in full gear and learning is in full swing, reconnecting with teachers and classmates has been fulfilling for the students in our school community. Thank you for patience as we completed our test to return requirements for school re-entry!  


Please remember to remain vigilant with observing your child for covid-19 and flu symptoms; let us know if your child will be absent due to illness.


Reminder: If your enrolled child has a sibling that you would like to enroll at Yu Ying for Fall 2024, you will need to apply via My School DC. If your child is planning on attending DCI, you will also need to apply via My School DC. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have. 


Free and Reduced Lunch Form Updates: Recently you may have received a phone call and email from our staff regarding a need for an updated Free and Reduced Lunch form.  If you have been asked to submit an updated form please do so right away.  Families that have been asked have begun accruing charges as either their direct certification or previously submitted form is no longer valid. Please submit an updated FRL form to  lunch@washingtonyuying.org or contact us with any questions. 


Read on for information about school communications & upcoming events!  


Cheers, 


Ayanna Free, Family Liaison

Email: ayanna.free@washingtonyuying.org

Phone: 202-635-1950, ext. 204 Mobile: (443) 422-3633


Virtual Office Hours ( via Google Meet): 

Fridays, 2 - 4 PM (by appt, please text) 

Thursdays 8-9 PM (by request only 

Video link: https://meet.google.com/puf-nxfb-uuh.


Privacy and Security Disclosure: Allow 5-10 minutes for a response, just in case I am in a meeting with another family.  With discretion, I may ask security questions to verify identity before discussing student information online.


**ATTENTION, PLEASE!** ACTION ITEMS


NEWS YOU CAN USE


DC School Based Oral Health Program Comes to Yu Ying


Learn 24 Out of School Time Scholarships : Applications OPEN


My School DC Parent Information Sessions 


Winter Resources: Check-In


Winter Clothing and Weather Protection Resources


Attendance


  COMMUNITY RESOURCES AND EVENTS


UPCOMING EVENTS AND IMPORTANT DATES



---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

December 14, 2023


Dear Yu Ying Families,


Winter is here; and we have just over a week until winter break!   As we get closer to winter break, be sure to check the Toddle App for important updates from school leaders and to communicate directly with your child’s teacher. 


Reminder: If your enrolled child has a sibling that you would like to enroll at Yu Ying for Fall 2024, you will need to apply via My School DC. If your child is planning on attending DCI, you will also need to apply via My School DC. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.  


I have also attached a resource regarding out of school time activities that are available during winter break.  There is no cost to attend any of the events listed; enjoy!


If you have any needs, feel free to reach out, we are here to help!


Read on for information about school communications & upcoming events!  


Cheers, 


Ayanna Free, Family Liaison

Email: ayanna.free@washingtonyuying.org

Phone: 202-635-1950, ext. 204 Mobile: (443) 422-3633


Virtual Office Hours ( via Google Meet): 

Fridays, 2 - 4 PM (by appt, please text) 

Thursdays 8-9 PM (by request only 

Video link: https://meet.google.com/puf-nxfb-uuh.


Privacy and Security Disclosure: Allow 5-10 minutes for a response, just in case I am in a meeting with another family.  With discretion, I may ask security questions to verify identity before discussing student information online.


**ATTENTION, PLEASE!** ACTION ITEMS


NEWS YOU CAN USE


Winter Resources: Check-In


Winter Clothing and Weather Protection Resources



Attendance


  COMMUNITY RESOURCES AND EVENTS


UPCOMING EVENTS AND IMPORTANT DATES


----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

November 15, 2023

Dear Yu Ying Families,


Our fall Thanksgiving holiday is approaching!  Washington Yu Ying will be closed beginning Wednesday November 22-24, 2023. We will return on Monday November 27, 2023 for a full day of school. 


Please see the section, Community Resources and Events, below for out of school time activities and available resources. 


The weather has changed and we are consistently at or below the 50 degree temperature mark.  Outdoor play will continue; please ensure that your child is dressed warmly and has a winter coat.  


Our  YY Fall Community Mutual Aid Coat Drive was a success and families began receiving items this week.  If your family did not complete the form, but would like to receive resources for winter coats, please let us know using this link.  We will do our best to provide a resource for your family. 


Read on for information about school communications & upcoming events!  


Cheers, 


Ayanna Free, Family Liaison

Email: ayanna.free@washingtonyuying.org

Phone: 202-635-1950, ext. 204 Mobile: (443) 422-3633


Virtual Office Hours ( via Google Meet): 

Fridays, 2 - 4 PM (by appt, please text) 

Thursdays 8-9 PM (by request only). 

Video link: https://meet.google.com/puf-nxfb-uuh.


Privacy and Security Disclosure: Allow 5-10 minutes for a response, just in case I am in a meeting with another family.  With discretion, I may ask security questions to verify identity before discussing student information online.


**ATTENTION, PLEASE!** ACTION ITEMS


NEWS YOU CAN USE


Picture Day Makeups


Family Opinion Survey


4301 Harewood Road Project - Second Campus

 

Attendance


  COMMUNITY RESOURCES AND EVENTS



UPCOMING EVENTS AND IMPORTANT DATES



---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

October 18, 2023

Dear Yu Ying Families,


Goal Setting Conferences are this week!   Conferences are a 1:1 chance to talk directly with your child’s teacher about the first five weeks at school and set goals for the year.   




Read on for information about school communications and upcoming events!  


Cheers, 


Email: ayanna.free@washingtonyuying.org

Phone: 202-635-1950, ext. 204

Mobile: (443) 422-3633

https://meet.google.com/puf-nxfb-uuh


Virtual Office Hours (via Google Meet): 

Fridays, 2 - 4 PM (by appt only, text (443) 422-3633) 

Thursdays 8 - 9PM (drop-in)


Privacy and Security Disclosure: Allow 5-10 minutes for a response, just in case I am in a meeting with another family.  With discretion, I may ask security questions to verify identity before discussing student information online.

 

**ATTENTION, PLEASE!** ACTION ITEMS


NEWS YOU CAN USE

School Communication


Health Forms


  COMMUNITY RESOURCES AND EVENTS


UPCOMING EVENTS AND IMPORTANT DATES

Tuesday, October 31: Halloween Parade - students may wear costumes (no masks, weapons, accessories and candy)

**************************************

September 12, 2023

Dear Yu Ying Families,


The first two weeks of school are down in the books!  Thank you so much for your patience, cooperation, and feedback! Most importantly we want to thank you for supporting your kiddos by getting them to school every day and on time!


Did you attend our New Family Orientation or Open House? Let us know your opinions with this survey about orientation and open house.  


If you have any unique needs that we can work through to help support your child, let us know.  We are available, and I am always happy to help connect families with the right people at Yu Ying who can help! We have many many resources available, including but not limited to: 



Read on for more  information about school communication, health and safety, and upcoming events!  


Cheers, 

Ayanna Free, Family Liaison


Email: ayanna.free@washingtonyuying.org

Phone: 202-635-1950, ext. 204

Mobile: (443) 422-3633


Virtual Office Hours (Online via Google Meet): Every Friday, from 2 - 4 p.m. On Fridays, please send a text message to let me know you’d like to meet with me right away. I am also available outside of general working hours by request on Thursdays 8pm-9pm. Video link: https://meet.google.com/puf-nxfb-uuh.


Privacy and Security Disclosure: Allow 5-10 minutes for a response, just in case I am in a meeting with another family.  With discretion, I may ask security questions to verify identity before discussing student information.

 

**ATTENTION, PLEASE!** ACTION ITEMS


NEWS YOU CAN USE

School Communication

 - Creating an account on the web by clicking here; or 

 - Downloading to your Apple device by clicking here; or

 - Downloading to your Android device by clicking here


You will need your child’s unique family code to access your child’s account.  Let us know if you are having any challenges with using Toddle.


Health Forms


  COMMUNITY RESOURCES AND EVENTS


UPCOMING EVENTS AND IMPORTANT DATES



----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

August 8, 2023


Happy School Year 2023-2024!!

 

Dear Yu Ying Families,


Welcome to School Year 2023-2024! Campus has been buzzing with preparation for the return of over 630 students and more than 150 staff! 


Over the next few weeks I’ll be sending notices about events, reminders about important school procedures, and providing surveys for feedback.  Information from these surveys will help us guide communications, plan for school events, and better support families!


Listed below is information about this year’s arrival and dismissal process, school communication, health form requirements, and more!  Feel free to contact me directly with any questions; I will do my best to find an answer or route your question in the right direction!


Cheers, 


Ayanna Free, Family Liaison


Email: ayanna.free@washingtonyuying.org

Office Phone: 202-635-1950, ext. 204

Mobile Phone: (443) 422-3633


 

**ATTENTION, PLEASE!** ACTION ITEMS


NEWS YOU CAN USE

Health Forms


Toddle


Arrival and Dismissal

  

UPCOMING EVENTS AND IMPORTANT DATES - SCHOOL CALENDAR


----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

August 2, 2023

SAVE THE DATE: YU YING NEW FAMILY ORIENTATION 8/19/2023!!


Dear New Yu Ying Families,


Welcome to School Year 2023-2024! 


Before school begins, we would like to invite you to New Family Orientation.  The event is a pilot event that merges new parent education about essential elements of YY’s program with forward facing scaffolds to school-based, government-based, and community-based supports.  


It also includes dedicated time and tutorials to get the basics all set up and squared away before day 1.  We will help families with the installation and use of our core communication apps and walk through all of your questions for a smooth day 1, week 1. 


Who is invited: New families and returning families with new siblings enrolled 

Where: Yu Ying’s Campus (220 Taylor Street NE)

When: Saturday, August 19, 2023

Time: 9:00 AM -1:30 PM


To provide flexibility, we are offering two options for families.  There will be one in the morning from 9:00-11:30 and an afternoon option from 11:00-1:30 PM. 


Families should RSVP to attend a Morning Session or an Afternoon Session.  

The core essentials will be offered at both sessions so you only need to attend one block.  


However,  we know life happens (especially life with little ones) so have structured the day with repeated content in case you end up running late, get swept up in a great discussion with a new family or want to engage longer on a particular topic.   


We will also have a Circle of Care Resource Room for families to connect with community based organizations.  This will be open for drop in from 10:00 AM-1:30 PM.   

Morning Session

09:00 - 09:30 Arrival/Breakfast A-La Carte/Meet and Greet

09:30 - 09:45 Morning Introduction: Passport to Yu Ying

09:50 - 10:25 Morning Workshop I: Get Here - Transportation and Attendance

10:30 - 11:00 Morning Workshop II: Stay Connected - Use of School Apps

11:05 - 11:30 BREAK - Guided Walk / Circle of Care Resource Room

Afternoon Session

11: 00 - 11:30 Arrival / Lunch A-la-Carte / Meet and Greet

11:30 - 11:45 Afternoon Introduction: Passport to Yu Ying

11:50 - 12:30 Afternoon Session I: Get Here Transportation and Attendance

12:35 - 01:10 Afternoon Session II: Stay Connected - Use of School Apps

01:05 - 01:30 BREAK - Guided Walk / Circle of Care Resource Room


For more information, and faqs about the event, please click this link to RSVP!


Cheers, 


Ayanna Free, Family Liaison


Email: ayanna.free@washingtonyuying.org

Office Phone: 202-635-1950, ext. 204

Mobile Phone: (443) 422-3633

ACTION ITEMS

NEWS YOU CAN USE

UPCOMING EVENTS

**ATTENTION, PLEASE!** ACTION ITEMS


Please RSVP for New Family Orientation


Back to School Resources