The general intent of the district is to offer a regular program of classes every school day. On those days when this is not possible due to weather, your planning, cooperation and patience will be greatly appreciated.

If severe weather conditions force the closing of school, please be aware that the district will send out a “Blackboard Alert” telephone and email message to all families who have children who attend school in the Wauwatosa District. You may also check the following TV stations and their radio affiliates for early announcements: FOX-TV6, WTMJ-TV4, CBS-TV5, WISN-TV12

Our school is excited to be piloting a Share Table in the lunchroom. A 'share table' is a common practice for food service operations to effectively manage and reduce food waste. The share table would allow students who use our food service to exchange fully wrapped or pre-packaged items that come with their lunch.

We are hoping to achieve the following goals through the addition of a Share Table in our lunchroom:

• Educate students about the number of food components they are required to take
• Educate students on the problem of wasted food
• Encourage activities that prevent wasted food
• Educate children about food insecurity in their area
• Redirect consumable food within the school or to hunger relief organizations
• Minimize the cost to schools of wasted food and the associated environmental impacts

Recently, there are have been several articles circulating about schools across the country that have implemented Share Tables: Food Exchange Florida, and Food Share Table Article.

Our school will be collaborating with Mr. Maiorelle, Sodexho General Manage and Mrs. Hoffman, Principal and McKinley Elementary to launch a Share Table at both of our schools after the new year.

A Confidentiality/Background Check must be on file in order for parents or family to chaperone field trips. Click on the link below to complete this very short, on-line Confidentiality/Background Request Form to avoid any delay with chaperone duties. Once the request form is submitted it is processed by an outside security vendor and may take up to 7 days to receive your approval notice - Please plan ahead.

http://www.edlinesites.net/pages/Wauwatosa_School_District/Departments/Human_Resources/Volunteer_Application

Clarification: "Check-In" when you come into the school office to volunteer in the building is NOT related to the confidentiality/ background check. "Check-In" includes showing your driver's license and printing a name badge. The Raptor System is related to building security. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to call the office.

Snow is upon us - I'm hoping you have some fond memories of winter and are looking forward to family and friend time during the upcoming break.

This month’s topics include an introduction to ‘mindfulness’ for children. Below is a link to a resource that has been used to teach students about staying aware of what they hear, see, feel, think. These skills help them manage emotions and stay aware of the impact of their reactions on others. They also help them harness their minds (and breath) to stay focused on the task(s) at hand. https://mindup.org/

Coats for Kids: http://www.samilwaukee.org/milwaukee/coats_for_kids deadlines apply

Tosa Community Food Pantry: (414)258-4320 (St. Bernard Parish) - Donations accepted.

(Call 2-1-1 in order to locate/access a food pantry at any time of the year)

Tosa Cares: Contact Linda (414)258-0456 ext 410 - deadlines apply for Holiday assistance. Donations accepted

The district also has a Student Family Assistance Program available at no charge through Aurora Healthcare. Call (800)236-3231 for more information or contact me at (414)773-1233 or email rupschte@wauwatosa.k12.wi.us for assistance with confidential referrals, as needed.