Dear Parents and Guardians,

Well, that was a quick month, but we certainly had a lot going on. The second trimester ended, some parents had spring conferences, our 3rd-5th graders completed their Illinois Assessment of Readiness Test (IAR), we've had some field trips, and hosted the Board of Education meeting this month. I want to give credit to all of our 3rd-5th graders who spent 5.5 to 6 hours of computerized testing last week. It is exceptionally challenging for them to sustain such mental attention and focus throughout all of that testing, yet they did their very best and gave tremendous effort.

All throughout the month, we've been focusing on our manners and next month it will be on our attitudes! Although it doesn't necessarily align with our Second Step lessons as previous month focuses were intended to do, we feel that it is a focus our students can easily relate with and is a great connector for daily conversations. It's important to approach our relationships, our school work, and each day with a positive attitude. It speaks to having a growth mindset and it aligns with continued work we are doing with our students on accepting feedback. As we return from Spring Break, you can help support our mission by encouraging our students to return to "student mode" and set goals to finish the school year strong with a positive attitude.

For all of those traveling over Spring Break, safe travels. If you are staying home like me, take the time to rest and relax. Remember, school doesn't resume until Tuesday, April 2nd.

Sincerely,

Mr. Brett Balduf, Principal

Carpenter Elementary School

SPRING 2019 REMINDERS FROM SCHOOL HEALTH SERVICES

Springtime turns thoughts to warmer weather, outdoor activities, and spring break travel. Here are two important reminders to help your families enjoy this time of year!

Please continue to take time to regularly check your child for the presence of head lice. The Centers for Disease Control has practical information regarding head lice, which can be accessed here. In addition, your Building Nurse can provide you with useful materials regarding identification and treatment of head lice. Information also is available on the D64 Health & Safety tips webpage.

This time of year also is called “influenza (flu) season.” In the U.S., flu season occurs in the winter; however, flu outbreaks can happen as early as October and can last as late as May.

D64 has noticed an increase in the number of influenza-type illnesses in our schools, which is to be expected at this time of the year. Cleaning protocols have been adjusted in all buildings in response to this increase. In addition, frequent handwashing and proper cough/sneeze etiquette are regularly reinforced with our students and staff.

Please visit Cook County Department of Public Health for information about influenza, including prevention tips that you may find helpful at home, too.

Performance at Carpenter Talent Show! You don't need to be Greek - come and learn Greek folk dances and songs!!

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