Friday, October 20, 2017

PEACEFUL SCHOOLS
Legend High School students, members of the Parker Rotary and our first graders participated in a Peaceful Schools program that focuses on character education.  Our older students and Rotarians read students books, such as One and Hey Little Ant, and engaged students in discussions and activities.  Topics that will be addressed over the next month include caring, showing compassion and cooperation, expressing feelings, celebrating diversity and resolving conflict.  This was an experience that benefited all participants.  We look forward to continuing this program in the coming weeks!











HALLOWEEN
Halloween is right around the corner and students are already asking how we will celebrate at Gold Rush.  Halloween breakfast parties will be held on Monday, October 31, from 8:40-9:30 AM.  It is recommended that party treats be balanced with both nutritious options and sweets.  Our school parade will follow at 9:30-9:45 AM.  The parade route is included below.  Students who do not wish to participate in Halloween activities can rejoin the class at 9:45 AM.  We will resume with a normal school day schedule at that time.

We encourage students to be creative with their costumes, but safety remains our number one priority.  Please adhere to the following guidelines when selecting a costume:

* Students should come dressed in their costume and bring a change of clothing.

* Costumes can not be demeaning, offensive or promiscuous.

* Face paint, face masks and weapons are not permitted.



OUR FABULOUS FRONT OFFICE
You may see new faces in the front office.  When Ms. Panico retired prior to fall break Mrs. Schwalick joined our team as the health and office assistant.  Mrs. Dismang is now serving as the school's registrar and Mrs. Rudman is our administrative assistant.  They all look forward to continuing to serve our school community.





LOCKDOWN PRACTICE
We had the opportunity to review our lockdown procedures and practice this drill with the District security team Friday.  After completing the drill, students continued discussions in their classrooms. Students were assured that schools are safe places.  Teachers also reminded students that they should go to the closest room if they are not in their classrooms.  In addition, they discussed remaining in a locked stall with their feet up if they were in the bathroom. 

The National Association of School Psychologists provides some tips for talking with children.  They provide seven suggestions shown below.   Click here for the full article.

1. Assure Children They Are Safe
2. Make Time to Talk 
3. Make Explanations Developmentally Appropriate
4. Review Safety Procedures
5. Observe Children's Emotional State
6. Limit Television Viewing
7. Maintain a Normal Routine




2018-2019 ENROLLMENT CONFIRMATION

It's hard to believe, but we will be starting the planning process for next school year soon.  In order to assist us in this planning, complete the enrollment confirmation survey for your child(ren) by Friday, November 17th.  Please click here for the enrollment survey.  This will help ensure your child's classroom placement for the next year.

UPCOMING EVENTS
* October 31: Halloween Parade @ 9:30-9:45
* November 7: No School - Teacher Work Day
* November 15: Celebrations of Learning/Thanksgiving Feast (Grade Level Schedule to Come)
* November 20-24: Thanksgiving Break