On behalf of the entire staff, I want to wish all of you a happy 2016 filled with good health, fun, and wonderful occasions. I also hope you had a wonderful Holiday Season and time to do the things
you wanted to do, including doing nothing at all, if you chose to do that.

 

We thank you for the many treats of candy, cookies, fruits, cakes, even a delicious breakfast, you bestowed upon us during the season. We definitely enjoyed partaking in all of them. Thank you for helping to contribute to our food drive for Neighbor to Neighbor. We filled six boxes of food, which they came to pick up, and were so appreciative of our efforts. They reiterated the urgent need that is not only constantly present, but growing.

 

Dr. Ellen Flanagan, Deputy Superintendent, visited our school this week. During a school year, she plans at least three visits. Other elementary school principals are invited to join the visits as well. As a result, Ms. Raneri, Principal at the Old Greenwich School was here, as was Mrs. Rigling, Principal at the Hamilton Avenue School. We visited quite a few classrooms to observe the teaching and to interact with the students. It is an effective mechanism for sharing ideas and methodologies among the schools. Our students were extremely eager to share and explain their learning, and were very impressive to our visitors--as were the teachers.

 

This past Tuesday, outdoor recess was canceled due to the extreme temperatures. In general, on days when the temperature falls into the single digits and teens, outdoor recess is canceled. Otherwise, students do go out as running around and getting fresh air are beneficial to each child's well-being.  On the days we do not have outdoor recess, we notice an escalation in off-task behavior. However, it is important that students are prepared to be outside with the appropriate gear, including warm jackets, hats, gloves, scarves, etc. There are still some students coming to school in shorts, so long pants are needed on those cold days. Boots are also necessary when there is snow on the ground. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

 

The onset of cold weather brings more traffic to the front circle, as many more students are being driven to school instead of taking the bus. One morning this week, we experienced a "circle bottleneck" which has not happened in a long time, but resulted in traffic being at a standstill. It helps if cars take a right-hand turn at the end of the driveway. If possible, please try to do that. It also helps if cars are allowed to exit the circle, as it facilitates movement. If you are waiting on Florence Road to drop off your child, please allow cars from our circle to enter traffic. Also students should be ready to exit the cars quickly. If a student requires assistance, or needs to retrieve materials from the trunk of a car, then the parent or driver should park and escort the student to the front of the school. Any action you can take on your end to contribute to improving the situation is very much appreciated.

 

Next Wednesday, January 13th is an early release day. Students will be dismissed at 1:15PM. Please note it on your calendar. Thank you.

Sincerely,