Students at Mill Creek Elementary run laps for the Maverick Mile fundraiser. (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – Mill Creek Elementary School will enter its fifth year of operation when the 2013-2014 school year starts on Aug. 19.

“We are looking forward to seeing everyone soon,” Mill Creek Principal Melanie Barkley said. “It’s hard to believe that we are only a (few weeks) away from opening our fifth school year at Mill Creek.”

The Mavericks will have an open house on Aug. 15. Students in first, third, fourth and sixth grades will attend from 5 to 5:30 p.m. Then, the pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, second grade and fifth grade students can visit from 6 to 6:30 p.m.

“All students will have the opportunity to meet their teachers and see their classroom,” Barkley said. In addition, Mill Creek PTA will conduct its first meeting in the cafeteria.

During open house, students’ parents can buy planners and pick up school kits. Mill Creek PTA volunteers will be present to sign up new members, and parents can learn about fulfilling volunteer opportunities that PTA has to offer.

In addition, pre-screening for kindergarten students will be conducted on Aug. 5-7. Teachers will call parents to schedule an appointment to discuss preparations for an easy transition for the youngsters.

Tours for new students will be offered on Aug. 8 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mill Creek families who have moved to the Madison City Schools district can familiarize themselves with the building layout, entrances, playground and traffic flow.

During the weeks of Aug. 20-31, Mill Creek will host Curriculum Nights. Barkley will announce specific times and nights for each grade level. All Madison elementary campuses will have these informational meetings, which are intended for parents only. Teachers will discuss course study and expectations for their grade.

Kacy McKay is Mill Creek’s assistant principal. Cindy Davis is counselor.

The Mill Creek website (mces.madisoncity.k12.al.us) has links to school supply lists, forms, bus routes and other back-to-school reminders.