Archives for 2025

In recognition of National Principals Month, the HSA is creating a digital Kudoboard for Mr. C! This is a wonderful opportunity for our community to share messages of appreciation for all that he does for Murch.

💻 How to contribute: 
Click HERE to open the Kudoboard, then select “+ Add to Board.” You can write a note, upload photos, videos, or even a GIF. Once you’re finished, click “Post” to add your contribution.

We invite students, parents, caregivers, teachers, staff, and community members to participate. Let’s show Mr. C how grateful we are for his leadership, energy, and dedication to the Murch community!

⏰ The last day to contribute is Thursday, October 30.

P.S. Don’t worry—we haven’t forgotten about Mr. Hawkins! We’ll celebrate him during Assistant Principals Week in April.

Girls’ basketball tryouts will begin Tuesday, October 14, and continue on Wednesday, October 15 and Thursday, October 16 from 3:30–5:00 PM each day.

Please make sure players come prepared with proper footwear and athletic clothing.
Only students with cleared paperwork are eligible to participate in tryouts.

A reminder that if your child’s physical exam expires at any point during the season, they’ll need to submit an updated exam and Universal Health Certificate before continuing participation.

If you have any questions, please contact Coach Hayden at daniel.hayden@k12.dc.gov.

We’re thrilled to announce that Murch Plus is back for the 2025 school year — and registration is now open! This beloved after-school enrichment program offers a fantastic lineup of classes led by our very own Murch teachers, including drawing, art, architecture, and basketball.

 Fall Session: Wednesdays, October 22–December 3
(No class on November 26 due to Thanksgiving Break)
 Time: 3:30–4:15 PM
 Who: All Murch students in grades K-5
 Spots: Placement by lottery if demand exceeds capacity
 Registration Deadline: Friday, October 17 at 11:59 PM

 Click here to register!

Murch Plus is free for all students, thanks to the generous support of families through the Support Our School (SOS) Campaign. If you haven’t yet made your SOS contribution this school year, donate today to help the HSA continue sponsoring this special program that sparks creativity, learning, and joy for our Mustangs! 

Just a reminder:

• Thursday, October 9 & Friday, October 10 – No school for students due to Parent-Teacher Conferences and Professional Development for Teachers. If you haven’t signed up for your Parent-Teacher Conference – look out for scheduling info from your child’s teacher!

• Monday, October 13 – No school for students, teachers, and staff in observance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

Enjoy the extra-long weekend! 

Join us on Friday, October 17 from 8:45–9:30 AM on the Big Playground for our second Coffee on the Playground & HSA Community Meeting of the year! Grab a cup of coffee, connect with other families, and hear updates from Mr. C and the HSA.

This month’s gathering will also launch the Mindful Mustangs Parent Engagement Series, led by the Murch Mental Health Team. The first session will introduce the Transcend Model being used at Murch and how parents can apply similar practices at home.

We hope to see you there for coffee, conversation, and community!

Monday, October 27 is School Picture Day! Each student will have an individual photo taken by Freed Photography, which families will be able to purchase later.

Please note: class and group photos will be scheduled for a later date. We’ll share details once those are confirmed.

Make sure your student comes to school ready to smile! 

The Murch Mental Health Team is excited to launch the brand-new Mindful Mustangs Parent Engagement Series this year! Each quarter, this series will bring parents together to explore topics around mental health, social-emotional learning, and parenting strategies, with plenty of time for Q&A and community connection.

The first session will focus on the Transcend Model being used in classrooms and how families can apply the same language and practices at home.

This exciting launch will also coincide with our second Coffee on the Playground & HSA Community Meeting of the year on Friday, October 17 from 8:45-9:30 AM—a perfect setting to enjoy coffee, connect with other parents, and hear school updates from Mr. C and the HSA.

Missed your chance to help with Movie Night? Don’t worry—here’s your next opportunity! The Murch Fall Fair is coming up on Saturday, October 25, from 12–4 PM, and it runs entirely on volunteer power.

Each class is assigned a booth, and we need parents to step in and help run them. It’s fun, easy, and one of the best ways to make the day a success for our kids.

 Click here to find your class and sign up!

Your time and energy make Fall Fair possible—thank you for pitching in! 

It’s not too late to join the two Amore Learning classes happening at Murch right now!

🎨 He[art]beats (Tuesdays, 3:30–4:30 PM)
It’s not too late to join He[art]beats, where Amore Learning teacher and local fine artist Drew Tye Ruby-Howe leads a dynamic art class set to music. Kids draw and paint to the rhythm of the beat, exploring creativity, expression, and the joy of making art together. Expect masterpieces to come home, creativity to soar, and friendships to flourish!

🎭 Spotlight on Acting & Improv (Thursdays, 3:30–4:30 PM)
Budding performers can take the stage in Spotlight on Acting & Improv. This interactive workshop blends improv games, script reading, and storytelling to help students build confidence, teamwork, and stage presence. Voice projection, body language, and character development are all part of the fun—culminating in a short classroom performance for families.

✨ Spots are still available at a discounted rate!
👉 Register here: amorelearning.com/booknow