Weekly Communique

Happy Holidays!

Next week, we will all be preparing for our two week winter break. For some of our students (and staff), this is something they look forward to for weeks. Trips, movie marathons, family meals, and sleep are often on the agenda. There is a time for relaxation, fun with family and friends. For some of our students, the "fun" wears off after a few days. I have included a few links below to activities that are in the Lake County area that would provide something fun to do for your family. Some events have an entry fee, others are free. Both Zion and Antioch have free holiday events including Santa and light shows. Please click on the links below for ways to add some "light" to your holiday season.

Have a healthy, happy winter break.

https://www.visitlakecounty.org/EventDetails?EventID=29762

https://zionparkdistrict.com/

https://www.chicagoparent.com/events/long-grove-holiday-festivities/

https://santasrocknlights.com/

https://www.wichristmascarnival.com/

“This is the best day ever! I found 14 seeds in one pine cone!” Mrs. Rasmussen 2nd grade class read The Great Spruce and the students wanted to know more about transplanting and seeds. They cancelled their next lesson and decided to go outside and find pinecones to dissect. They LOVED it!

Viking students started to build their earthquake resistant structures. Not as easy as it looks!

Stations in Ms. Zimerfeld's STEM class. 4th graders working on legos, gnomes, snowflakes, Dash robot, and Typing Club.

6th grade students enjoyed the annual Viking Health Fair; back in person after two years of virtual learning. Big shout out to our community guest speakers from Warren Township Youth and Family Services, Honey Orthodontics, Gurnee Police Department, and Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital.

Physical Education classes at Spaulding School are in the midst of a Stunts and Tumbling Unit. Students perform individual, partner, and group stunts as well as individual rolls.

Help the Viking Student Service Council help others! SSC is hosting a food drive now thru 12/19!

GET READY FOR WINTER!

View our 2022-2023 Winter Programs and Events Guide TODAY!

Registration opens Monday, December 5!

https://indd.adobe.com/view/a6710ee5-24b4-47ac-8647-0a8c047eefee

Need help with utility bills? Eligible families in Illinois can get help this winter through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Find out more at http://helpillinoisfamilies.com.

Is it just the 'winter blues' or seasonal affective disorder (SAD)? This infographic may help guide you on when to seek professional help. https://go.usa.gov/xeqyS #shareNIMH

@NIMHgov

One million COVID-19 rapid antigen tests are now available while supplies last. Learn more:

https://dph.illinois.gov/covid19/testing/act-zip-codes.html

While many kids will overcome the flu with fluids and rest, the flu can become serious and even deadly. Know what symptoms to watch out for, the options available for testing/treatment, and when to seek emergency care.

Learn more at bit.ly/cdc-flu-prevention

With large parts of the U.S. facing frigid temperatures this week, dangerous health risks like hypothermia can happen quickly. Stay safe in cold weather by learning what signs and symptoms to watch out for: https://bit.ly/2YCuXyh

It is the magical time of year when the kids have winter break, are playing with their holiday gifts, and looking for something to do with their day.

Whether enjoying the holiday light displays, catching a theater performance, or buying last-minute deals, use Visit Lake County’s Winter Break in Lake County guide to plan your schedule.