We are excited to celebrate #withJOY our Vienna Terrapin STANDOUT STUDENTS for the month of October and proudly recognize their outstanding achievements!
These remarkable students are honored for their outstanding qualities, which may include academic success, positive attitudes, athletic abilities, active participation, good decision-making, leadership skills, kindness, support for others, responsibility, and being true role models.
They are indeed the leaders of tomorrow!
These remarkable students are honored for their outstanding qualities, which may include academic success, positive attitudes, athletic abilities, active participation, good decision-making, leadership skills, kindness, support for others, responsibility, and being true role models.
They are indeed the leaders of tomorrow!
Mrs. Diffenbach's 1st-grade class recently enjoyed a field trip to Furnace Town Historic Site in Snow Hill, Maryland, where history comes to life as an exciting, hands-on adventure! This engaging destination combines history and science, offering students a fascinating look at 19th-century agrarian life.
During their tour, Vienna Elementary School students explored various interactive stations, including:
- The Woodworker's Shop
- The Blacksmith
- The Weaver
- The Nassawango Iron Furnace
- Outdoor Recreation & Games
Each station provided a fun way to learn about the skills and daily life of the past, making history both educational and enjoyable.#withJOY
Thank you, Furance Town, for hosting us, and thank you, Mrs. Diffenbach, for organizing the field trip!
On Veterans Day, Vienna Elementary School is honored to celebrate your incredible strength, bravery, and the sacrifices you make to protect our freedom.
We sincerely appreciate your outstanding service and unwavering dedication!
On October 6th, 2025, National Instructional Coach Appreciation Day, Ms. Casey O'Bier, Communications Specialist for DCPS, shared a wonderful post about the coaches in Dorchester County Public Schools. We want to take this opportunity to congratulate our very own Mr. Shane Abbott.
Mr. Shane Abbott, our dedicated math and reading coach at Vienna Elementary School, deserves recognition for his exceptional expertise and willingness to share his knowledge with colleagues. He equips teachers with the skills to create standard based lessons and assessments that prepare students for standardized tests. Furthermore, Mr. Abbott addresses instructional challenges with a proactive approach and conducts demonstration lessons that enhance teaching practices.
His support extends beyond academics; Mr. Abbott also volunteers his time in the cafeteria and office, demonstrating his commitment to our Terrapin school community. He actively listens and provides a comforting presence when we need to express our feelings. He demonstrates kindness and teamwork every day. Mr. Abbott is a proud and active member of the "HOUSE" of Amistad.
Thank you for everything you do #withJOY!
Mr. Shane Abbott, our dedicated math and reading coach at Vienna Elementary School, deserves recognition for his exceptional expertise and willingness to share his knowledge with colleagues. He equips teachers with the skills to create standard based lessons and assessments that prepare students for standardized tests. Furthermore, Mr. Abbott addresses instructional challenges with a proactive approach and conducts demonstration lessons that enhance teaching practices.
His support extends beyond academics; Mr. Abbott also volunteers his time in the cafeteria and office, demonstrating his commitment to our Terrapin school community. He actively listens and provides a comforting presence when we need to express our feelings. He demonstrates kindness and teamwork every day. Mr. Abbott is a proud and active member of the "HOUSE" of Amistad.
Thank you for everything you do #withJOY!
Something is in the A I R, and we can feel the joy and unity growing in our three HOUSES!
On Thursday, October 30th, Vienna Elementary School held HOUSE meetings for our three amazing HOUSES: Amistad, Isibindi, and Rêveur. We had a wonderful time getting to know each other and welcoming our newest members! We're excited about all the adventures that await us this year.
The Vienna Terrapins know how to come together to build a strong sense of community and support, making this year truly unforgettable! #withJOY
Bingo friends, the Vienna Parent Association is giving something new a try and hopes you will join us for a new spin on the classic game everyone loves!
Join us at East New Market Fire Hall, East New Market, Maryland, on Saturday, Nov. 15.
Doors open at 11:30 a.m.; games begin at 12:30 p.m.
**Tickets $25
Blind Date/Mystery Prize Bingo
The VPA will have 20 regular games with prizes of all kinds, each valued at $75 or more. We can share some ideas about what to expect at bingo, though! Think TRENDY. Books, plants, tumbler sets, Ninja kitchen gadgets, electronics, home decorations, and more. Things you see on TikTok, Facebook, or in the store —things you may not buy for yourself but would love to have. So much in life is planned out every day; we wanted to do something different—something people are interested in and that gives them a real surprise! Most importantly, have a FUN fundraiser.
Along with 20 exciting games, enjoy door prizes, a 50/50, and possibly a special game. We won’t have any special raffles, but we do plan to offer tasty food. And don’t miss our unique "trade table": If you want to swap your prize, visit the table at the end of bingo for a fun chance to trade!
Please message the Vienna Parent Association Page or Katie at 410-253-0189 with any questions or to prepay for tickets.
Hope to see you there!
It's Turkey Trot Time!
Come and cheer on our students run in our 7th Annual Turkey Trot on Tuesday, November 18th at 4:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.! The rain date is Monday, November 24, from 4:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.
To promote health and wellness with our students, younger siblings, and adult family members, this year's NEW VIENNA RUNNING CLUB MEMBERS ARE HOSTING OUR 7th Annual Turkey Trot! Participating "trotters" will pay $1.00 to run a one-mile Turkey Trot course around Vienna Elementary School and get one ticket for our raffle!
After the Turkey Trot, there will be a small celebration where there will be water, healthier snacks, and a raffle. All proceeds will benefit our VES Houses —Amistad, Isibini, and Rêveur —and activities throughout this year.
Items being raffled off are a TV to watch the Thanksgiving Day parades and football games, two complete turkey dinners including dessert, ten pumpkin pies, ten Nerf footballs, two “Inspire” Fitbits, and two $50.00 gift cards to WalMart to start "Black Friday" shopping. (Again, one raffle ticket will be included with the $1.00 trotting fee.) Additional raffle tickets will be available for purchase for $1.00 each OR 15 for $10.00. (You do not have to be present to win a prize!)
Adults and younger siblings are invited to participate and/or cheer on students along the course, However, Vienna students may simply stay after school for this special event that will begin promptly at 4:00 p.m. If an adult is not attending, students must be picked up at 4:45 p.m. (Be sure to park in the extra parking lot. The bus circle will be closed off to traffic for the celebration.)
Please return the permission form sent home, along with $1.00 for each participant.
We look forward to seeing you at the Turkey Trot!
Come and cheer on our students run in our 7th Annual Turkey Trot on Tuesday, November 18th at 4:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.! The rain date is Monday, November 24, from 4:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.
To promote health and wellness with our students, younger siblings, and adult family members, this year's NEW VIENNA RUNNING CLUB MEMBERS ARE HOSTING OUR 7th Annual Turkey Trot! Participating "trotters" will pay $1.00 to run a one-mile Turkey Trot course around Vienna Elementary School and get one ticket for our raffle!
After the Turkey Trot, there will be a small celebration where there will be water, healthier snacks, and a raffle. All proceeds will benefit our VES Houses —Amistad, Isibini, and Rêveur —and activities throughout this year.
Items being raffled off are a TV to watch the Thanksgiving Day parades and football games, two complete turkey dinners including dessert, ten pumpkin pies, ten Nerf footballs, two “Inspire” Fitbits, and two $50.00 gift cards to WalMart to start "Black Friday" shopping. (Again, one raffle ticket will be included with the $1.00 trotting fee.) Additional raffle tickets will be available for purchase for $1.00 each OR 15 for $10.00. (You do not have to be present to win a prize!)
Adults and younger siblings are invited to participate and/or cheer on students along the course, However, Vienna students may simply stay after school for this special event that will begin promptly at 4:00 p.m. If an adult is not attending, students must be picked up at 4:45 p.m. (Be sure to park in the extra parking lot. The bus circle will be closed off to traffic for the celebration.)
Please return the permission form sent home, along with $1.00 for each participant.
We look forward to seeing you at the Turkey Trot!
**Important Half-Day Announcement**
Vienna Elementary School will be dismissing at 12:45 p.m. this Friday, November 7, 2025!
Don't forget to show your school spirit by wearing your "HOUSE" t-shirt!
Additionally, we will be sending home report cards on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.
Wishing everyone a fantastic weekend ahead—enjoy your time off #withJOY!
**Happy Birthday, Mrs. Susie Price!**
Today, we are celebrating at Vienna Elementary School and expressing our heartfelt love and appreciation to our principal, Mrs. Susie Price. She embodies excellence, dedicating her entire heart and soul to our students and staff, and relentlessly pursuing the best possible outcomes for everyone in our school community. Mrs. Price excels not only at providing top-notch education to our students but also at teaching them important life lessons.
She truly is a remarkable role model! Both students and staff hold her in high regard. For many years, Mrs. Price has been a devoted member of Dorchester County Public Schools.
Moreover, as a proud member of Rêveur— the House of Dreamers — she inspires all of us to dream big and chase our goals. Let's celebrate her incredible leadership and commitment to ensuring every student succeeds #withJOY!
**Gobble Gobble! It's time for turkey!**
Vienna Elementary School is hosting a Turkey "Dinner" on Thursday, November 13, 2025.
Two adults from each family are cordially invited to join us for a school dinner to begin celebrating the Thanksgiving holiday season.
Please return the reservation form for one or two visitors along with pre-payment by Friday, November 7, 2025. Checks should be made payable to Vienna Elementary School. (All money is due on November 7. No money will be collected on November 13.)
We are so sorry, we cannot accommodate more guests. Thank you for your understanding.
**Menu:**
-Turkey
-Mashed Potatoes
-Dressing, Gravy
-Green beans, Dinner Roll
-Baked Apples, Seasonal Fruit
-Milk (or Iced Tea for adults)
**Cost** $7.00 per adult
**Lunch Times:**
- 10:45 - 11:15 AM: PreK3 and PreK4
- 11:25 - 11:55 AM: Kindergarten and Grade 1
- 12:05 - 12:35 PM: Grade 2 and Grade 3
- 12:45 - 1:15 PM: Grade 4 and Grade 5
We look forward to celebrating with you!
Vienna Elementary School is hosting a Turkey "Dinner" on Thursday, November 13, 2025.
Two adults from each family are cordially invited to join us for a school dinner to begin celebrating the Thanksgiving holiday season.
Please return the reservation form for one or two visitors along with pre-payment by Friday, November 7, 2025. Checks should be made payable to Vienna Elementary School. (All money is due on November 7. No money will be collected on November 13.)
We are so sorry, we cannot accommodate more guests. Thank you for your understanding.
**Menu:**
-Turkey
-Mashed Potatoes
-Dressing, Gravy
-Green beans, Dinner Roll
-Baked Apples, Seasonal Fruit
-Milk (or Iced Tea for adults)
**Cost** $7.00 per adult
**Lunch Times:**
- 10:45 - 11:15 AM: PreK3 and PreK4
- 11:25 - 11:55 AM: Kindergarten and Grade 1
- 12:05 - 12:35 PM: Grade 2 and Grade 3
- 12:45 - 1:15 PM: Grade 4 and Grade 5
We look forward to celebrating with you!
**Red Ribbon Campaign**
**Life is a puzzle; live it drug-free.**
These meaningful words resonate with the Dorchester County Health Department. On Monday, October 27, 2025, Ms. Kirsten Hurley, Ms. Shannon Proffitt, and Ms. Robin Stanley from the Dorchester County Health Department visited Vienna Elementary School to talk with students in grades 3 through 5 about the dangers of drug abuse.
The presenters emphasized that drugs can negatively impact students' brains and bodies, as well as their mental health. They also discussed how drug abuse affects the community, environment, friends, and family.
Nicotine, for example, can hinder brain development and harm the heart. Additionally, cigarette smoke contains chemicals that can harm others through secondhand smoke, making it crucial to protect our loved ones.
Alcohol, one of the most commonly used drugs, can also impair a young person's brain development. The speakers showed slides highlighting the differences between cannabis, candy, and medicine, reminding students to always consult a trusted adult before taking anything.
They explained that cannabis can damage the lungs and heart. While people often turn to drugs to cope with stress, this solution is not effective in the long run. Instead, healthier ways to manage stress include getting enough sleep, reading, and listening to music.
The presenters also addressed the role of peer pressure in drug use and provided tips on what to say when someone offers you drugs. To promote awareness, they presented a banner for students to sign and display at our school.
For more information, visit www.redribbon.org.
We hope everyone had a Happy Halloween with their little pumpkins.
We had a howling good time here at Vienna Elementary School on October 31, 2025! #withJOY
### Important Dates to Remember for November 2025:
- **November 1**: Daylight Saving Time Ends
- **November 5**:
-End of Term 1
-VES Running Club every Wednesday from 3:45 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. through November 12
- **November 6**:
- 1st Grade Field Trip to Furnace Town
- 2nd Grade Field Trip to JZ Farms
- Good News Club for Grades 1-5 every Thursday from 3:45 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
-**November 7**:
-½ Day for Students
- Wear your "HOUSE" t-shirt.
- **November 8**: Dorchester County Library Harvest Fest in Cambridge
- **November 11**: Veterans Day
- **November 12**:
-Report Cards will be sent home.
-VES Running Club continues every Wednesday from 3:45 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.
- **November 13**:
-Thanksgiving “Dinner”: $7 per adult, with two adults from each family invited. All money is due on November 7th.
-Good News Club for Grades 1-5 every Thursday from 3:45 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- **November 14**:
- Gaming Truck, Term 1 Incentive (Kindness)
- Wear your "HOUSE" t-shirt
- Blue Sky Puppet Theater at 2:30 p.m.
- **November 15**: Mystery Prize Bingo, formally known as Blind Date Bingo at East New Market Firehouse, 11:30 a.m.
- **November 18**: Turkey Trot; Running Club participants should wear their Running Club shirts
- **November 19**: 5th Grade at NorthBay
- **November 20**:
- 5th Grade at NorthBay
- Good News Club for Grades 1-5 every Thursday from 3:45 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- **November 21**:
- 5th Grade at NorthBay
- Wear your "HOUSE" t-shirt
- Pep Rally
- **November 24**: Turkey Trot Rain Day
- **November 25**: ½ Day for Students and Staff
- **November 26 to November 30**: School Closed
### Important Dates to Remember for December 2025:
- **December 2**: McTeacher Night, Tuesday from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
-**December 4**:
-Picture Retakes Day
-Good News Club for Grades 1-5 every Thursday from 3:45 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
**Spooky fun ahead!**#withJOY
Join us for a ghoulish good time tomorrow, Friday, October 31, 2025, at 9:40 a.m. for a "FANG"tastic costume parade through the town of Vienna! Let's celebrate the spirit of Halloween together, weather permitting.
Additionally, please note that students will be dismissed at 12:45 p.m. We hope you have a happy and safe Halloween!
Join us for a ghoulish good time tomorrow, Friday, October 31, 2025, at 9:40 a.m. for a "FANG"tastic costume parade through the town of Vienna! Let's celebrate the spirit of Halloween together, weather permitting.
Additionally, please note that students will be dismissed at 12:45 p.m. We hope you have a happy and safe Halloween!
***Something is in the A I R!***
Tomorrow, Thursday, October 30th, 2025, is our "HOUSE" Meeting.
Don't forget to wear your "HOUSE" t-shirt. New "HOUSE" t-shirts are going home today!
Let's celebrate #withJOY!
Tomorrow, Thursday, October 30th, 2025, is our "HOUSE" Meeting.
Don't forget to wear your "HOUSE" t-shirt. New "HOUSE" t-shirts are going home today!
Let's celebrate #withJOY!
We had an unforgettable experience at the Fall Festival at Vienna Elementary School on Friday, October 24, 2025! The event was a success, thanks to the community, parents, and Vienna Elementary School staff.
Mrs. Valarie Brinsfield, a member of the Maryland Farm Bureau Board of Directors, visited to read "The Soil in Jackie's Garden," sparking meaningful discussions about the vital role of soil in our ecosystem. Before heading home for the day, each student received a cute bookmark and a potato, generously donated by Mr. Jake Lovett and Sons in East New Market, Maryland. How cool is that? But there's more! Mrs. Brinsfield also presented Mrs. Renee LeMire, our Media and Art Specialist, with a copy of the book for our school library, allowing all our students to enjoy it for years to come.
Adding to the excitement, Mr. John Brinsfield, Mr. Balvin Brinsfield, Mr. Josh Brinsfield, and Mr. Dale Collins treated us to tram rides through the town of Vienna, coordinated by the Dorchester Farm Bureau. During our tram ride, we stopped at Hebron Savings Bank, where Mrs. Amber Bramble, the Regional Manager (also known as Morticia Addams), and Ms. Mea Abramowicz, the Head Teller (also known as Wednesday Addams), generously handed out candy donated by the bank to each student.
Our fantastic staff made the day even better by running various fun stations. Mrs. Diffenbach wowed the crowd with her excellent pizza-making skills using her handy-dandy pizza maker. She made the pizza in front of each class, and one student wanted to see her toss the pizza dough in the air, but we couldn't persuade her to do it. After her demonstration, the students enjoyed a slice of pizza. Mr. Abbott organized a puzzle station, and Ms. Hubbard hosted a bowling activity complete with a light show in the gym! Mrs. LeMire crafted adorable fall magnets with the students, while Mr. Burris got everyone dancing with some entertaining videos.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mrs. Margaret Diffenbach for her exceptional organization of this fantastic event, along with the Dorchester Farm Bureau, Hebron Savings Bank, the dedicated staff at Vienna Elementary School, and all the parents who participated! Your support truly makes a difference in our community! #withJOY
Frankenstein's Pick or Treat has been crowned the winner of Best Trunk at the Trunk or Treat event organized by the Vienna Parent Association!
Erynn, a talented third-grade student from Vienna Elementary School, and her family created an unforgettable trunk that truly impressed everyone.
A heartfelt thank you to the VPA for putting together such a wonderful event! Let's keep the community spirit alive #withJOY!
Mrs. Diffenbach is such an amazing first grade teacher at Vienna Elementary School and a proud member of the House of Isibindi! She brings strength and courage to her classroom every day, passionately dedicated to her students' learning. With a warm yet firm approach, she helps her students make good choices and manages any situation with ease.
In her classroom, her little learners are having a blast mastering the art of decoding words during their Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) lessons. They get to use fun techniques like blending, tapping, and spelling, and Mrs. Diffenbach's deep knowledge of the CKLA curriculum really shines through as she guides them to develop these important skills.
With years of experience under her belt, Mrs. Diffenbach is not just meeting her students' needs; she's helping them grow and reach their full potential. She also goes above and beyond to support her fellow teachers and staff with kindness, always ready to lend a hand or share her advice. She truly is the heart of the classroom and exemplifies what it means to be an exceptional teacher! #withJOY
See it. Hear it. Report it!
** SAFE SCHOOLS MARYLAND VIRTUAL PRESENTATION**
The Maryland Center for School Safety is hosting a 30-minute virtual presentation for parents and caregivers. This event will take place on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at 7:00 P.M.
The presentation will provide an overview of the Safe Schools Maryland Anonymous Reporting System, which is available to all K-12 schools across Maryland. It will explain how to use the system effectively and will highlight what should and should not be reported. There will be a question-and-answer session at the end, allowing parents to ask questions related to the Safe Schools Maryland program and other school safety topics.
Parents can register using the link below. After registration, staff from the Maryland Center for School Safety will send the meeting link to the email address provided within 24 hours of the meeting.
Click the link to register: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=20399306&appointmentType=36637332
Don’t miss this great opportunity!
** SAFE SCHOOLS MARYLAND VIRTUAL PRESENTATION**
The Maryland Center for School Safety is hosting a 30-minute virtual presentation for parents and caregivers. This event will take place on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at 7:00 P.M.
The presentation will provide an overview of the Safe Schools Maryland Anonymous Reporting System, which is available to all K-12 schools across Maryland. It will explain how to use the system effectively and will highlight what should and should not be reported. There will be a question-and-answer session at the end, allowing parents to ask questions related to the Safe Schools Maryland program and other school safety topics.
Parents can register using the link below. After registration, staff from the Maryland Center for School Safety will send the meeting link to the email address provided within 24 hours of the meeting.
Click the link to register: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=20399306&appointmentType=36637332
Don’t miss this great opportunity!
** HAPPY MAIL**
Something is in the A I R at Vienna Elementary School! We just wanted to take a moment to brag about our outstanding students! Each Happy Mail note is color-coded to represent their "HOUSE" color, and our students can earn points for their "HOUSE" by showing off some fantastic positive behaviors, such as:
-Being a good friend
-Showing great improvement
-Showing kindness
-Excellent behavior ALL day
-Uplifting others
-Working well with others
-Helping others
-Following instructions
-Moving up a level in reading
We are so proud of our Vienna Terrapins and all their accomplishments! Keep up the great work! #withJOY
Something is in the A I R at Vienna Elementary School! We just wanted to take a moment to brag about our outstanding students! Each Happy Mail note is color-coded to represent their "HOUSE" color, and our students can earn points for their "HOUSE" by showing off some fantastic positive behaviors, such as:
-Being a good friend
-Showing great improvement
-Showing kindness
-Excellent behavior ALL day
-Uplifting others
-Working well with others
-Helping others
-Following instructions
-Moving up a level in reading
We are so proud of our Vienna Terrapins and all their accomplishments! Keep up the great work! #withJOY
