Friday, August 25, 2017

STUDENTS' VIEWS ON SCHOOL VALUES:
Teachers had the opportunity to define our values prior to the start of this school year.   We are all committed to creating critical thinkers who take risks, honor differences and care for others.  We all believe in fostering students' academic, social and emotional development.  The Back to School presentation featured in the blog last week describes how these values are seen throughout our school.



Click here to hear students talk about what our school values mean to them.



SAFETY:
Suspicious Suspect in the Neighborhood
I know that you received an email from the District regarding a student who was approached by a stranger while walking home from school yesterday.  As was stated in the release, the Parker Police Department has increased patrols in our neighborhood before and after school.  All Gold Rush staff have been made aware of the event.  Our school has also increased our supervision at arrival and dismissal and during recess periods. 

Here are a few additional safety procedures we follow to keep kids safe:

* All building entrances are locked during the school day.
* All parents and visitors are only allowed to enter using the main entrance.
* The school has interior and exterior video cameras.
* All students are actively supervised while outside. 
* A police liaison officer patrols the interior and exterior of the building twice a day.

As was stated in the email, this may be a good time to talk about stranger danger with your child. Here are a few talking points:

* Use the buddy system and walk in groups
* Stay on your planned route and avoid taking shortcuts
* Be aware of your surroundings and any suspicious people or vehicles
* Report any concerns immediately to a parent, teacher or other trusted adult

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.  Please know we are all committed to creating a safe community for your child. 

Improving Traffic Into Parking Lot
We consulted District Security and our police liaison officer regarding the flow of traffic leading into our parking lot during arrival and dismissal.  We were advised that all cars must wait to turn into the parking lot, including those wanting to park in the lot and not use the car loop.  Starting next week we will place cones at our entrance to ensure that all cars are following this safety procedure.

8:20AM drop off will resume next week


SOLAR ECLIPSE:
Students and teachers alike enjoyed watching the solar eclipse on Monday!  Everyone enjoyed experiencing this scientific feat as a school community.









CELEBRATING DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP:
Each student at Gold Rush has his/her own technology device provided by the school.  Students in grades K-2 have their own ipad and students in grades 3-5 have either a chrome book or laptop.  These devices enhance teachers' direct instruction.  This week we kicked off the year with a spirit week that highlighted how we can be responsible and safe digital citizens.  Common Sense Media is a great resource for parents, educators and students.  Click here to view this cite.



Crazy Sock Day: Digital Footprints & Reputations
Consciously managing students' own privacy and the privacy of others




Twin Day: Creative Credit & Copyright
Respecting the hard work and creativity of others





Superheros: Internet Safety
 Trusting your "gut" feeling while online and logging off from uncomfortable situations




UPCOMING EVENTS:
* September 4:  No School Labor Day
* September 12:  PTO Mtg @ 8:45-10:00
* September 15: Western Night
* September 21: SAC Mtg @ 4:30-5:30
* September 22: No School - Teacher Training
* September 28: Parent Teacher Conferences
* September 29:  Digger Dash


ELECTRONIC THURSDAY FOLDER