Wednesday's Word
March 2, 2022
What's Inside!
- COVID-19 Vaccination Status
- March 2022 Parent Wellness Education Events
- KP Summer Bridge for rising 7th graders
- Norfolk PTO fundraiser with the Providence Bruins
- Girls on the Run sign-ups
- Recreation Department upcoming programs
Dear Families,
We hope that your children enjoyed their February break and got to spend some extra time with their family and friends. On a global scale, we recognize that it was a very difficult and upsetting time, as the Russian government moved forward with an unprovoked and violent attack on the people of Ukraine. Our hearts go out to the citizens of Ukraine who are fighting to defend their democracy and to protect the lives of their fellow citizens. Our school adjustment counselors, Mrs. Kelley (HOD) and Ms. Longley (FK), and our administrative team wanted to take this opportunity to share some helpful resources to support any discussions that might arise in your household concerning current events. One of the challenges we face as educators and parents is that our children have access not only to stories from news media sources but also from various social media platforms and online outlets that portray graphic images and distressing headlines. Exposure to this information can have negative effects on children of all ages. We can help mitigate feelings of anxiety and fear by giving our children opportunities to discuss their concerns, acknowledge their feelings, and by reassuring them that they and their loved ones are safe. Below you will find several resources that give tips on talking to children of different ages about difficult topics.
Although we are not focusing on these events, our job is to provide our kids with “accurate, age-appropriate information, while reminding them that they are safe and loved”. Teachers do have access to resources on how to address questions and concerns from students about the war in Ukraine that are age-specific. If you have any specific concerns or questions about supporting your child during this time, please reach out to your child’s school principal. As always, our adjustment counselors are also available to support students with processing challenging situations if the need arises.
SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL LEARNING RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES, EDUCATORS TO SUPPORT STUDENTS
For All Ages
Helping Your Students Cope With a Violent World: Edutopia article features strategies for helping children make sense with historical perspective, feel empowered, and inspire them to feel hopeful.
How to Talk to Kids About Violence, Crime, and War: Common Sense Media gathers tips and conversation starters to help you talk to kids of different ages about the toughest topics.
Talking to Your Kids About War: VeryWell Family explores ways families can speak with young people about war, including tips on sharing information and restricting media coverage.
For Elementary/Middle School Students
Resilience in a time of war: Tips for parents and teachers of elementary school children: This article from the American Psychological Association can help adults guide their young children beyond fear and to resilience.
Resilience in a time of war: Tips for parents and teachers of middle school children: The American Psychological Association breaks out tips and strategies for parents and teachers of middle school-aged children.
For Military Families
The San Diego County Office of Education creates and curates resources to support military families and students and schools that serve military children.
Sincerely,
Victoria Saldana, Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment
COVID-19 Vaccination Status
If your child has been fully vaccinated (completion of either the Pfizer or Moderna series or two weeks following a single dose of the Johnson and Johnson Janssen vaccine) please send a photocopy of your child’s vaccination card in a sealed envelope to your child’s school nurse. Fully vaccinated students are exempt from test and quarantine requirements. Having a record of each child’s vaccination status will support our nurses with future contract tracing efforts.
H. Olive Day School Nurse- Ann Hurley hurley@norfolk.k12.ma.us
Freeman-Kennedy School Nurse- Barbara DiGiacomo digiacomo@norfolk.k12.ma.us
March 2022 Parent Wellness Education Events
KP Summer Bridge Program for Rising 7th Graders
Norfolk, Wrentham, and Plainville school districts invite all rising 7th grade students to participate in a one week Bridge To KP summer program. This is a no-cost program that is designed to help incoming grade 7 students prepare for a smooth transition to KP Middle School. Students will have an opportunity to engage in fun activities and connect with peers from neighboring districts. The program is staffed by KP Middle School teachers, as well as teachers from the three elementary districts. For more information please click on the flyer attached flyer.
Interested families are asked to complete the following Google Form. This will help us plan and staff the program accordingly. Please reach out to my office with any questions.
Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment
Norfolk Public Schools
508-528-1225 ext. 1815
Norfolk PTO fundraiser with the Providence Bruins!
Come to the Providence Bruins game on 03/06/22! A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Norfolk PTO! Thank you! Just use this link to purchase tickets!
Girls on the Run for grades 3-6
Registration is now open for Girls on the Run (GOTR). GOTR is more than just a running club, we inspire ALL girls to build confidence and make intentional decisions, while fostering care and compassion for self and others.
• Practices will be held on Tuesdays and Fridays right after school beginning April 1. The season will culminate in a Celebration 5K held on Saturday, June 11.
• You can register and get more information here: https://www.girlsontherunboston.org/Register-Now or on the attached flyer.
• Or, reach out to Jen Oliver, jenoliver2008@gmail.com, or Marta McNulty, martamcnulty@yahoo.com with any questions.
We're looking forward to another great season!
Jen & Marta
Norfolk Recreation Upcoming Programs!
Kindness Week Kindness at the FK and HOD!
Norfolk Public Schools
Email: allardi@norfolk.k12.ma.us
Website: norfolk.k12.ma.us
Location: 70 Boardman Street, Norfolk, MA, USA
Phone: (508) 528-1225