Geneva Family Gnome News
January 2021
A note from the principal...
Whew, we have made it to 2021!
I don't know if you have felt it, but there has been a dramatic shift to more optimism and hope within the world of education. Science is showing that schools are not centers of viral spread as early predictions forecast. We are hearing loud and clear that children need to be back to learning in person if we can do it safely. We have showed that we can bring students back safely at Geneva.
There are no words to describe the gratitude and pride I feel for the team at Geneva everyday, but especially throughout the pandemic. Time and time again, Geneva staff have looked at a challenge from multiple perspectives, and figured out innovative and creative ways to problem solve. We have welcomed back our Preschool, Kindergarten and First Grade students. Dr. Baker has just confirmed that our Second Graders will rejoin their class for in-person learning a week from today, on January 14th. Shortly after, on January 25th, our Promise Kindergarten class will be back in person. We are excitedly preparing classrooms and materials for the return of these children to in-person learning.
We have learned a lot about how to have students back in the school building safely while still providing a joyful learning environment. School looks a little different, but it works! All signs point to a full return including grades 3rd through 5th as soon as we can. Governor Inslee's office in addition to state and local health departments are providing guidance and recommendations for a return to in-person learning for our elementary school age students. The team at Geneva is moving forward with the planning to be ready to go as soon as we get the okay. For families with students in intermediate grades, please continue to be on the lookout for district and school communication in the weeks to come. We miss our students and cannot wait to get all our gnomes home!
As always, please don’t hesitate to connect with me if you have questions or ideas, or if your family has a need that we may be able to help with.
Courage, Brain, Heart Gnomes!
Warmly,
Sharece Steinkamp
Upcoming Events
Jan. 6 - Meal Box Distribution 4:00-5:30
Jan. 13 - Meal Box Distribution 4:00-5:30
Jan. 14 - 1st Day In Person Learning for 2nd Grade
Jan. 15 - MLK Jr. Virtual Assembly
Jan. 18 - NO SCHOOL - MLK Jr. Day
Jan. 20 - Meal Box Distribution 4:00-5:30
Jan. 27 - Meal Box Distribution 4:00-5:30
UPCOMING...
Feb. 2 - NO SCHOOL Semester Break
Feb. 3 - Meal Box Distribution 4:00-5:30
Feb. 10 - Meal Box Distribution 4:00-5:30
Feb. 15 - NO SCHOOL President's Day
Feb. 17 - Meal Box Distribution 4:00-5:30
Feb. 24 - Meal Box Distribution 4:00-5:30
If you think your family might qualify, please apply.
Your child will remember that we have agreements on how school devices should be used and for what purpose. Students should:
· handle all computer equipment carefully
· not install software of any kind
· keep all food and drinks away from computers
· use the Internet for research and learning only
· only visit sites linked from our school, District or teacher websites
· use search tools approved by the school and not surf
· have teacher permission before using email
Ways to help manage student computer use at home (students in grades 2-5 who have a school issued laptop computer):
Have conversations with you child about appropriate school computer use and digital citizenship. What we do online matters, just like in real life.
Did you know as a parent in Bellingham Public Schools, you have free access to apParent a smartphone app? This app lets you monitor and manage your student's district-issued laptop using your iPhone or Android. You can use apParent to:
· View screen images of your child's device
· Lock your child's device with a custom message
· Block use of specific websites or apps
· Set limits on use with scheduled screen lock times
· View 24 hours of your child's web browsing history
Want to learn more, or get signed up? Parents can contact Katie Kortlever for help with using apParent or any technology issues experienced on school devices.
We are here to help:
If your child is ever uncomfortable with anything they see online from peers, please encourage them to talk with their teacher. You are always welcome to call the school with any concerns as well.
Teachers will work with the Library Media Specialist, Nancy Hudson, and the Education Technology Coach, Katie Kortlever, to investigate and resolve the issue.