The Oxford Update
Oxford Elementary School
Importance of School Attendance
This is the time of year when winter takes a toll on school attendance. Snow and slushy weather can keep parents from getting their children to school. So can the colds, fevers, and earaches that often come with the winter months.
These absences, even if they are excused, can add up to academic trouble. If it is a snowy or rainy day but school is still open, students miss out on learning if they aren’t in class. These absences can result in lower test scores and grades.
There’s not much we can do about the weather, but there are two key steps every family can take to help avoid absences this year.
- Develop back up plans for getting your children to school in winter weather. That could mean checking with other families who have a car that can manage in the snow or putting your child on the school bus, even if you typically drive them. If you’re stuck, call the school. We can connect you with other parents or staff members who can help.
- Keep your children healthy. Dress them warmly for the cold weather and make sure they have hats and gloves. Encourage them to wash their hands regularly and cover their coughs with an elbow. If your children do get sick, talk to a doctor or the school nurse about whether they should come to school and when it is okay for them to return.
Above all, let us know how we can help. We want your children and all our students to succeed. And that means attending school every day possible.
Perfect Attendance
Congratulations to our 54 students who had perfect attendance, our 71 students who had near-perfect attendance (missing one day) and for all our students for overall improved attendance this trimester. Thank you, parents, for your efforts in making regular attendance a priority. When students improve their attendance rates, they improve their academic prospects and chances for graduating.
Improved attendance was one of our school-wide goals last year and we did not meet it. We will so meet it this year! 😊 #Makingithappen #KidsMatter #LearningMatters
Second Grade Book Club
Walking in a Bookish Wonderland: A December Reading Challenge for Kids
Important Dates for December 16th - 20th
Tuesday, 12/17 - Ms. Kirby's class to Robert's Farm
Wednesday, 12/18 - Hawaiian Christmas, Dress in your Hawaiian Christmas Apparel
Thursday, 12/19 - Wear Red, Green, White or Blue Day
Friday, 12/20 - PTO Pencil Day; PJ and Reindeer Games Day; Last Day Before Vacation
UPCOMING DATES:
December 21st through January 1st - NO SCHOOL, Winter Break
January 2 - First Day Back to School
Oxford Elementary School
Email: principal.oxford@msad17.org
Website: www.msad17.org
Location: 79 Pleasant Street, Oxford, ME, USA
Phone: (207) 539-4456
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Oxford-Elementary-School-Maine