JCSS Family Engagement Newsletter
November 2021
World Kindness Day
American Education Week
November: A Month of Thanks
November reminds us to count our blessings! Early in November, our JC schools will give thanks for all who have served in our military to protect our freedoms by observing Veterans Day on November 11th. Two days later, we urge families to practice showing kindness to those in our community by observing National Kindness Day on November 13th. The week of November 15-19 is National Education Week. This week gives us an opportunity to celebrate public education and express our gratitude for the individuals who are making a difference in ensuring that every child receives a quality education, including paraprofessionals, substitute teachers, and parents! Jones County Schools will be closed November 22-26 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.
Additionally, November is recognized as Family Engagement Month in the state of Georgia, and it is a time for us express our thankfulness for the many engaged parents of Jones County. We know that we are blessed with the best!
In this edition of the JCSS Family Engagement Newsletter, you will find ideas for increasing your engagement in your child's education as well as links to many resources meant to support the well-being of our JC families. Again, we are thankful for each of you, and we hope you have a wonderful time of Thanksgiving with your family.
“Encourage and support your kids because children are apt to live up to what you believe of them.” ~ Lady Bird Johnson
If you have a question or concern, please contact us.
Shelley Dunlap sdunlap@jones.k12.ga.us or (478) 986-3032 Ext. 1284
Shelby Henderson shelby.henderson@jones.k12.ga.us or (478) 986-3032
Leslie Poythress lpoythress@jones.k12.ga.us or (478) 986-3032 Ext. 1282
Conversation Prompts
Here are some questions to ask your child this month.
What makes you happy at school?
- Do you ever work in groups at school?
- Did you do anything nice for someone today?
- What are you thankful for?
Tip of the Month: Plan for fun!
This month, do one fun family activity a week, such as take a trip to a museum, have a family game night, or make ice cream sundaes. Having something fun to look forward to can be comforting and exciting for children—and it can be a good opportunity for adults to relax and unwind as well.
Supporting Your Child's Temperament
Temperament refers to the aspects of your child’s personality that are innate (traits he/she is born with). For example, some children are just naturally introverts, and some are extroverts.
If your child is an introvert, he/she might be seen as “shy,” or “quiet.” He/she may also be hesitant to speak up in class or while playing with friends. You can support your child by helping him/her be more assertive while interacting with peers. (“Let’s practice what you can say the next time your friend takes your ball.”) Also, give your child space and time to be alone and decompress.
If your child is an extrovert, you may need to remind him/her periodically about the importance of taking turns in a conversation, and of listening to others. Help your child develop good listening skills by encouraging him/her to make eye contact, to not interrupt, and to ask others questions.
~ Woodburn Press
How high school pathway programs help students get on the right track
Superintendent Woods’ Letter to Parents and Families
Dear Georgia families,
Each November, we celebrate Family Engagement Month. This is always an important time to recognize how essential – how indispensable – families are to their children’s educational success. For two years in a row, however, I’ve felt that the “thank you” we owe – as educators – to Georgia’s parents and families is bigger than any letter could fully express.
The challenges facing parents, families, and children over the last year and a half have been enormous. While the pandemic has placed a strain on all of us, I know it has been difficult in unique ways for the parents and families of school-aged children.
You have always been your child’s first teacher, but this school year, you have adapted to quickly changing information, helped your children adjust to new safety protocols, and extended grace and patience to teachers and school staff as we’ve all navigated this new normal together. You’ve also continued the often unsung, but always important, work of keeping your child learning – from reading before bedtime and helping with homework to exploring the outdoors.
I believe wholeheartedly that when schools and families work in true partnership – not always agreeing, but in open conversation and in pursuit of the same goal – our children will succeed at new levels.
Thank you, parents and families, for all you’ve done to support your children’s learning, and their schools, this year. Your role is more important than it has ever been, and nothing we do as educators could be accomplished without you.
With gratitude,
Richard Woods
State School Superintendent
For Elementary Families...
Resources for Family Engagement
Parent and Family Input Needed
https://www.jonescntysd.ga.schools.bz/Content2/900
Then, please offer your feedback using the following link:
"LIKE US" on our Facebook Page
Jones County Schools Family Engagement
If you have a question or concern, please contact us.
Ms. Shelley Dunlap, Family Engagement Coordinator
sdunlap@jones.k12.ga.us or (478) 986-3032 Ext. 1284
Mrs. Shelby Henderson, Family Engagement Coordinator
shelby.henderson@jones.k12.ga.us or (478) 986-3032
Mrs. Leslie Poythress, Executive Director of Family Engagement
lpoythress@jones.k12.ga.us or (478) 986-3032 Ext. 1282
Mrs. Charlotte Foskey, Executive Director of Federal Programs
cfoskey@jones.k12.ga.us or (478) 986-3032 Ext. 1233
Mr. Charles Lundy, Superintendent of Schools
clundy@jones.k12.ga.us or (478) 986-3032
Email: cfoskey@jones.k12.ga.us
Website: https://www.jonescntysd.ga.schools.bz/
Location: 125 Stewart Ave, Gray, GA, USA
Phone: 478-986-3032
Facebook: facebook.com/jcssfamilyengagementteam