The Lion Update

Dear VES Families,

What a season to be a Legendary Lion! April was a beautiful reminder of the strength and resilience of our military-connected families as we celebrated Month of the Military Child. From purple-filled hallways to the pride we see in our students every single day, this community never fails to inspire. And the energy here at VES has not slowed down one bit!

We are heading into the final stretch of the school year with some truly exciting events on the horizon. Our students will be lacing up their sneakers for the Presidential Fitness Test, celebrating movement, effort, and growth — no matter where they are on their fitness journey. Then comes Field Day and our always-anticipated Color Run, two of the most joyful days of the school year. We cannot wait to celebrate our Lions out on that field!

As you look through this week's newsletter, be sure to scroll down and check out the Community Events section — there is always something happening in and around our community worth knowing about. We will also begin sharing any summer programs and opportunities we come across, so keep an eye out for those as well.

Let’s also give a huge round of applause to our very own Vilseck legends—Mr. Clearwater, Ms. Clearwater, Ms. Greer,  Ms. Hall, Ms. Kellar, and Ms. Nell—who are celebrating 25 and 35 years of shaping minds, sparking curiosity, and making a lasting impact in every school they’ve served. Their dedication is the kind of achievement that deserves its own parade, but for now, we’ll proudly shout their names from the rooftops (or at least from the newsletter). Cheers to their incredible service and the countless students whose lives they’ve touched along the way.

Thank you, as always, for being such an incredible VES family. The best is still ahead — let's finish strong

With gratitude,
Dr. Goldsmith

🌟 Grade Level Spotlight: Music 

Robin Hood & the Sherwood Hoodies

This month, we proudly highlight the incredible work of Ms. Luke and our talented student performers. Ms. Luke delivered a phenomenal dinner‑theatre experience with this year’s production of Robin Hood and the Sherwood Hoodies. Students have been rehearsing since January, and their dedication truly shined on stage.

Students in grades 2–5 were able to participate in the production, and they exemplified remarkable hard work and commitment throughout the entire process. Many stepped out of their shells, embraced their roles with confidence, and lit up the stage with their energy and enthusiasm. You could clearly see the passion our students have for the fine arts through their extraordinary performances and the joy they brought to the audience.

It was an unforgettable evening that celebrated creativity, teamwork, and the power of the arts in our school community.

💡  Parent Tip of the Week: 🌟 Finish Strong

As we approach the final stretch of the school year, students often feel the excitement of summer right around the corner. One of the best ways to help your child stay focused is to keep routines steady and predictable. Maintaining consistent bedtimes, homework habits, and daily reading—even just 15 minutes—helps students stay grounded and ready to learn.

This is also a great time to check in with your child about any missing assignments, upcoming projects, or end‑of‑year events. A quick weekly backpack or folder check can prevent last‑minute stress and help them stay organized.
Most importantly, offer encouragement. A simple “I’m proud of how hard you’ve worked this year” can boost motivation and remind students that their effort matters. With your support, they can finish the year with confidence and momentum heading into summer.