Hammer Montessori Foundation Weekly Update
Week of August 19, 2025
Dear Hammer Families,
We’re entering our third week of school, and the energy around campus is incredible. Students are settling in beautifully, and it's been wonderful to see our community coming together again—whether it's through morning drop-off waves, volunteer sign-ups, or Back-to-School prep. As always, the Hammer Montessori Foundation (HMF) is here to keep you connected, informed, and inspired.
Here’s everything you need to know this week:
1. Official Hammer T-Shirt Sales Are LIVE!
We’re excited to announce that official Hammer Montessori School short sleeve and long sleeve t-shirts are now available for purchase in both youth and adult sizes! These shirts are approved as part of the school uniform, so they’re a great way to show school spirit while staying classroom-ready.
- Orders are processed weekly. Any orders placed between Monday and Friday will be delivered to your child’s classroom the following week.
- Important note: We will not be re-ordering Montessori or tie-dye styles—so if you want one, order soon while supplies last!
- Keep an eye out—sweatshirts will launch later this fall as the weather cools.
🛍️ Order your Hammer T-shirts here
2. Galammer Staff Appreciation Potluck – Sept 5
On Friday, September 5th, HMF and our Galarza parent partners are co-hosting a Teacher & Staff Potluck to show appreciation for our amazing educators and to build community between both school campuses.
- It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet teachers, support staff, and fellow parents in a relaxed, celebratory setting.
- Participation is optional, but if you’d like to contribute a dish, we warmly encourage you to stay for lunch and connect with the people who make Hammer and Galarza so special.
🍽️ Sign up to bring a dish here
Questions? Contact us at events@hammerfoundation.org.
3. Board Nominations Close August 26 – Get Involved!
Thank you to those who have already stepped forward—your enthusiasm is deeply appreciated!
There’s still time to throw your name in for the open HMF Board positions of:
- Vice President
- Treasurer
We also want to remind the community that both President and Secretary were filled mid-year last year and will be included in the upcoming election for a formal vote. If you’re interested in running for any of these roles, we encourage you to bring your ideas and voice to the table—new perspectives are always welcome.
🗳️ Submit your interest by Back to School Night on August 26 by emailing us at contact@hammerfoundation.org. Voting will be hosted on Konstella, and the link will be shared through Mr. Bingham’s update.
4. Approved Volunteers Needed – Make an Impact!
Want to help in the garden? Read to a class? Support our Book Fair?
We have many ways for parents and community members to get involved, and now’s the perfect time to start the SJUSD volunteer approval process so you’re ready to go as opportunities arise.
We especially need support with:
- Garden projects
- Recess and lunch supervision
- Reading buddies
- Scholastic Book Fair – starts August 25!
Remember: engaged families help foster successful students, and volunteering is a wonderful way to give back while staying connected to your child’s school experience.
🌱 Become an approved volunteer
5. Upcoming Dates to Remember
📚 Scholastic Book Fair: August 25–29
📣 Back to School Night: August 26, 5:00–6:10pm
🎒 Spirit Day (Anything But a Backpack): August 29
📕 Read-a-Thon: September 1–30 (details coming soon)
🎭 Mark Griffiths Assembly: September 2
🤝 HMF Board Meeting: September 2 @ 6:30pm (open to all families!)
🏫 Labor Day: September 1 (no school)
Thank you again for being part of the Hammer Montessori community. Your time, participation, and support make all the difference—and we’re always here to help you find ways to get involved and stay informed.
With gratitude and excitement for the year ahead,
Kristen Vlietstra
President, Hammer Montessori Foundation
📧 contact@hammerfoundation.org
🌐 hammerfoundation.org
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