Mercersburg Elementary
News from the Nest
Dates to remember!!!!!
Feb 3 ~ 100th Day of School Feb 8 ~ Board Meeting at 7:00 PM - Mercersburg Elem Library Feb 12 ~ Act 80 Day-No School for Students Feb 15 ~ Snow Make-up Day-School in session for students and staff Feb 22 ~ Mid-term of third marking period
Jump Rope for Heart
Hello, Everyone! It is that time of year again! This February we will begin our annual Jump Rope for Heart fundraiser! Jump Rope for Heart is a national educational fundraising event that teaches students the importance of physical activity and a healthy heart while raising money for a great cause. Jump Rope for Heart develops rope-jumping skills that are fun for everyone while promoting physical activity and teamwork. The program also teaches students to set and achieve goals and shows them how they can make a difference through volunteering and community service.
Last year we raised a little over $6,000!!! This is the most money our school has raised! Thank you everyone for your help and generosity! It is greatly appreciated! Hopefully we can add to that total this year! Students in grades K-5 will receive packets for fundraising. Students can win many cool prizes! Every donation greatly helps, even if it is only one dollar. The deadline is March 4th. During physical education class, all students in grades K-5 will participate in several fun hula hoop and jump rope activities regardless of whether they participate in the fundraiser or not. Students will also learn why exercising is good for their heart and what exercises work best!
Again, thank you for your help and support! If you have any questions once your child receives a packet, feel free to contact me here at the school. Let’s have a wonderful February!
Mr. Corby
From the Health Office
Below are a few things to think of as we enter February.
American Heart Month-Cardiovascular diseases, including strokes, are our nations #1 killer. To urge Americans to join the battle against these diseases, since 1963 Congress has required the president to proclaim February “American Heart Month”.
National Children’s Dental Health Month-It’s never too early to start caring for one’s teeth. Since tooth decay can begin as soon as teeth first appear, parents are encouraged to start caring for their children’s teeth and gums early.
- Children need strong and healthy teeth to chew food and to be able to speak clearly.
- “Baby teeth” hold spaces and serve as a guide for permanent teeth that will come later. If a baby tooth decays and is removed early, the permanent teeth may drift into an empty space and come in crooked.
- The most important tip for parents is to be a good role model. Children are more likely to pick-up a good habit if they see their parents practicing and enjoying good behavior, too. Good oral hygiene benefits everyone.
- Foods with calcium and fruits and vegetables lead to strong bones and teeth. Limits should be placed on sugary and starchy snacks and drinks.
Passenger Safety Month-The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that a child remain in a safety seat as long as possible. After a child reaches 4’9” or 80 pounds they are usually ready to be strapped into a cars lap and shoulder belt. An answer of “NO” to any of the following questions suggests that your child should remain in a safety seat.
- Does the child sit all the way back against the auto seat?
- Do the child’s knees bend comfortably at the edge of the auto seat?
- Is the lap belt centered on the tops of the thighs?
- Is the shoulder belt centered on the chest and shoulder?
- Can the child stay seated like this for the whole trip?
Never use a safety seat that has been in any kind of accident, even a fender bender. There may be hairline fractures not visible to the eye. Your insurance company will replace the seat.
The back seat is always the safest place for your child in the car.
The best way to reinforce the need for safety in your vehicle is to be a good role model yourself…BUCKLE UP!
Volunteer Clearances
If you are planning to volunteer for any school day event, which includes field trips,
you must apply for and turn in the following volunteer clearances to the school or district office:
Volunteer Registration Form
Child Abuse History Clearance
Criminal Records Check
Act 24 – Arrest/Conviction Report
Federal Criminal History Record
Tuberculin Test Results
Mandated Reporter Training
Clearance application packets, which include directions for completing the forms, are available in the school office. Forms are also available on the district’s website at www.tus.k12.pa.us (select Montgomery under “TSD Schools” tab, then listed under “FORMS” tab). Clearances may take several weeks to be completed.