Reminder: Early Dismissal Next Week
💛 Thursday HMF Update – Honoring Our Roots, Celebrating Our Community
Dear Hammer Families,
We begin this week’s update with heartfelt news about a beloved member of the Hammer Montessori legacy.
🌿 In Loving Memory of Betsy Hammer Carr
We are saddened to share that Betsy Hammer Carr, daughter of our school’s namesake Henry Hammer, passed away this month. Betsy was a devoted advocate for justice, equity, and community, and her tireless work through Working Partnerships USA touched the lives of many in San Jose and beyond.
We feel incredibly grateful that Betsy was able to join us for Henry Hammer Day earlier this year and see firsthand how deeply her family’s legacy continues to impact our school. She watched a special student-made video highlighting what Hammer Montessori means to our children — a tribute that brought her joy and pride. Click HERE if you haven't seen the video created with the contributions of our Hammer students.
Betsy’s family will be holding a memorial service and warmly invites any Hammer community members who wish to pay their respects.
🕊 Memorial for Betsy Hammer Carr
Friday, October 24 at 12:00 PM
Temple Emanu-El – 1010 University Avenue, San Jose, CA 95126
Lunch will be served following the service.
Please RSVP to: geacarr@gmail.com
Her legacy lives on through our students, staff, and families who embody the values of compassion, equity, and community every day. Rest in peace and power, Betsy.
🎃 Fall Festival & Trunk or Treat – THIS SATURDAY, October 25!
Get your costumes ready — the Fall Festival & Trunk or Treat is happening this Saturday from 1:00–3:00 PM in the Hammer staff parking lot! Join us for a spook-tacular afternoon filled with:
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🚗 Decorated trunks & themed tables for trick-or-treating
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🎨 Craft stations and chalk art zones
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🎯 Games, prizes, and a pumpkin patch photo area
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🏆 Contests for best trunk, best kid’s costume, and best family theme costume
Whether you come in costume or just for the candy and community, this event is one of the most joyful days of the year — we can’t wait to see you there!
🔗 Trunk or table signup: https://www.konstella.com/signups/68d4bfedf6ba6d526040626f
💛 Annual Appeal – Closing in on 10% of Our Goal!
We’re thrilled to share that we’re approaching 10% of our fundraising goal for the Annual Appeal — thank you to all who’ve donated so far! This is the most important fundraiser of the year, directly supporting:
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🎨 Starting Arts (music, dance, and drama for K–5)
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📚 Project Cornerstone
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🚌 Field trips and assemblies
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🧰 Classroom supplies and Montessori materials
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🧑🏫 Teacher development
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🎉 School events like Walk-a-Thon, Winter Bazaar, and yes — Trunk or Treat!
💡 Many companies offer corporate matching — don’t forget to ask your HR department to double your impact!
🔗 Donate here: https://www.konstella.com/donations/68e323c3f6baafc92cef9d72
👕 Hammer T-Shirts Still Available
Hammer Montessori T-shirts are still on sale! We have youth and adult sizes available in short and long sleeves — perfect for field trips, spirit days, or just showing your school pride.
🛍️ Order here: https://www.konstella.com/sales-sheets/68a21d5ff6ba42b74981ad38
📸 Picture Day Rescheduled
Please note that Fall Picture Day has been rescheduled to Wednesday, October 29. Make sure to mark your calendars and bring those bright smiles!
📅 Important Dates
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Fall Picture Day – October 29
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Fall Festival / Trunk or Treat – October 25, 1:00–3:00 PM
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Parent/Teacher Conferences – October 27–31 (early dismissal all week)
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Día de los Muertos Celebration – October 30, 4:30–6:30 PM
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Book-o-Ween Parade – October 31 @ 9:05 AM
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End of Daylight Savings – November 2 (Fall Back!)
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HMF Meeting – November 4 @ 6:30 PM
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SSC Meeting – November 7 @ 8:00 AM
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Happy Birds Assembly – November 10
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Veteran’s Day – November 11 (No School)
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Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day – November 14 @ 8:40 AM
Thank you for being part of the heartbeat of Hammer Montessori. We are inspired every day by the care, generosity, and enthusiasm you bring to this community.
With gratitude,
Hammer Montessori Foundation
📧 contact@hammerfoundation.org
🌐 www.hammerfoundation.org