Hammer Montessori Foundation Weekly Update
Week of August 26, 2025
Dear Hammer Families,
We’re rolling into September with a lot of momentum—and we couldn’t be more excited about what’s ahead! Thank you again for the incredible turnout at Back to School Night. Your energy and support were felt by our entire team. Now it’s time to take the next big step: voting in this year’s HMF Board and jumping into some of the most fun events of the year.
Here’s what’s happening this week:
1. Annual HMF Meeting – Tuesday, September 2 @ 6:30 PM
Our Annual Meeting will take place on Tuesday, September 2nd from 6:30–7:30 PM in person at Hammer Montessori. A virtual attendance option will also be available (link to be posted on Konstella).
At this meeting, we’ll:
- Vote on our official board slate for 2025–2026
- Share updates about upcoming events and goals
- Gather your input and ideas for the year ahead
We’d love for every family to either attend or vote. Your participation helps ensure we remain a transparent, community-driven organization.
🗳️ Cast your vote HERE
For more info on all the candidates click HERE
2025–2026 HMF Board Candidates:
- Kristen Vlietstra – President (Returning Board Member)
- Katy Bosworth – Secretary (Returning Board Member)
- Lynn So – Vice President (New Board Member)
- Jasmine Llamas – Co-Treasurer (New Board Member)
2. Fall Festival Volunteers Needed – Join the Fun!
It’s almost spooky season, and we’re gearing up for our Annual HMF Fall Festival & Trunk-or-Treat on Saturday, October 25 from 1–3 PM!
This is one of Hammer’s most beloved community events—but it can’t happen without your help. We need volunteers for:
- Game planning, setup, and monitoring
- Fall-themed activities like crafts and face painting
- Basket donation themes (1 per classroom)
- General setup and cleanup
- Festival committee co-leads
Let’s make this year’s festival the biggest and best yet!
3. Galammer Potluck – Final Call for Sign-Ups!
Help us show appreciation to our amazing teachers and staff from both Hammer and Galarza by joining our Staff Appreciation Potluck on Friday, September 5!
Even if you can’t stay, you’re welcome to drop off a dish and a smile. If you can stay, it’s a lovely way to connect with teachers and fellow parents.
Questions? Contact events@hammerfoundation.org
4. T-Shirts Still Available – Uniform Approved!
Don’t forget—Hammer Montessori t-shirts in youth and adult sizes are still available and qualify as part of the school uniform.
Orders placed Mon–Fri will be delivered to your student’s classroom the following week. Tie-dye and Montessori designs will not be restocked, so don’t wait!
5. Hammer Band – Enroll Now!
Students in 2nd–5th grade are encouraged to sign up for Hammer Band—our top before/after school program that teaches students to play real instruments, builds performance skills, and boosts musical confidence.
🎼 Band Assembly: September 4
💬 Ask your child about the flyer (attached here) or contact the office for sign-up info!
7. Become an Approved Volunteer – We Need You!
We welcome parents, grandparents, and community members to join our growing volunteer team. Get cleared through SJUSD now so you're ready to support at upcoming events like the Book Fair, Fall Festival, lunch supervision, and more.
8. Important Dates
🏖️ Labor Day (No School): September 1
📘 Read-a-Thon Begins: September 1–30
🎭 Mark Griffiths Assembly: September 2
🏛️ HMF Annual Meeting: September 2 @ 6:30 PM
🎼 Band Assembly (2nd–5th): September 4
🗳️ SSC Meeting: September 5 @ 8:00 AM (Room 120)
🍂 Fall Festival & Trunk-or-Treat: October 25, 1–3 PM
Thank you for all you do to make Hammer such a special place. Let’s keep the momentum going!
Warmly,
Kristen Vlietstra
President, Hammer Montessori Foundation
📧 contact@hammerfoundation.org
🌐 hammerfoundation.org
📝 View Meeting Minutes