From the Desk of Mr. Yoshida
Birdneck Elementary October 25, 2019
UPCOMING EVENTS
Oct. 28 - Nov. 1 - America's Safe Schools Week
Nov. 4 - Last Day of grading period
Nov. 5 - Virtual Learning Day/Staff Day (no school for students)
Nov. 7 - Literacy Night/presentation
Nov. 11 - Veterans Day (no school staff or students)
Nov. 13 - Report Cards sent home
Nov. 22 - Makeup day for fall pictures
Nov. 27 - Early dismissal for staff and students
Nov. 28-29 - Thanksgiving Holiday (no school staff or students)
A MESSAGE FROM YOUR PRINCIPAL
Hello Birdneck Community,
October has been an important month here at Birdneck. It is Virginia Disability History and Awareness Month and National Bullying Prevention and Awareness Month. We have been spending a lot of time discussing these topics in our classrooms, in the halls and on our very own closed circuit news show each day.
Our school counselor has been educating students on the differences of teasing, taunting and bullying and has been teaching them ways to prevent and overcome bullying. We also use our morning news, morning meetings and PBIS program to teach expected behaviors and educate our students about bullying. When staff is notified of concerns or bullying is identified, we take action to address the situation as soon as possible. Our goal is to help students advocate for themselves and safely work their problems out with peers. However, if support is needed, part of advocating is to let an adult know when they need assistance. If your child is experiencing difficulties encourage them to seek assistance at school if necessary. To strengthen the home/school connection, I suggest you ask your child about what he or she has been learning about bullying in school.
As you may remember, we focus on Safety, Ownership, Attitude, and Respect at Birdneck. In our latest staff meeting we discussed using common language to help support S.O.A.R. expectations. Reinforcing expectations using these four core values of our PBIS program help students to better internalize the behaviors that are taught and expected both here and at home.
Many people may not know that we currently have 119 students at Birdneck with special needs. Some of our students have speech delays, some with learning disabilities, some with physical, social, or cognitive disabilities. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires public schools to provide special education and related services to eligible students. But not every child who struggles in school qualifies. To be covered, a child’s school performance must be “adversely affected” by a disability in one of 13 categories (Learn more by visiting https://www.parentcenterhub.org/categories/). We strive to ensure the success of all our students in an inclusive environment. If you have any questions about how our school serves students with disabilities feel free to contact one of our special education teachers, counselor, or administrators.
Have an awesome day,
R.V. Yoshida
WE ARE BIRDNECK AND WE ARE FAMILY
R.V. Yoshida : Member of the BIRDNECK FAMILY since 2016
Handicapped Parking
Hugs and Kisses Presentation
Dear Parents and Guardians,
As part of our commitment to the safety of our students here at Birdneck Elementary School, invited Virginia Rep to present their play, Hugs & Kisses, on October 25, 2019.
This enjoyable, award-winning, musical is co-produced by Virginia Rep, the Virginia Department of Social Services and Families Forward (formerly known as Prevent Child Abuse of Virginia). It has been presented in schools all over the state for 36 years. This play is designed for children in grades K - 5 and introduces the concepts of good touch, bad touch and secret touch, in a sensitive and age appropriate manner. Children are encouraged to seek out and tell trusted adults, such as parents and teachers, whenever they feel there is a dangerous or harmful situation.
The characters in the play include Hugs the dog, Jemma, the new girl in the neighborhood, and friends, Jacob, Michael, and Katie. Jemma has been hurt by someone and does not know what to do. With the help of her friends, she learns the difference between good touch, bad touch and secret touch and finds the courage to tell her teacher, Mrs. Crenshaw. The story ends with the real actors talking to the audience about personal safety.
We hope you find this additional information helpful when talking with your child about this subject. If you would like more information about the play, or child safety, contact your guidance department at the school, or visit the Virginia Repertory Theatre website at: https://va-rep.org/tour/hugs.html
Sincerely,
Mr. Yoshida,
Birdneck Elementary School
THANK YOU PTA!
Federal Impact Aid Survey Due November 1
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BIRDNECK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
BIRDNECK MISSION
The mission of Birdneck Elementary is to dedicate ourselves to the success of all children, preparing them to meet today's expectations and tomorrow's challenges.
BIRDNECK VISION
Children are our future. We are dedicated to their success.
BIRDNECK BELIEFS
We believe in a collaborative community in which teachers, administrators, students, and parents work together for student success.
We believe in creating a safe, nurturing, and positive environment in which all students can strive for excellence and achieve their individual potential.
We believe we will prepare our students for success by providing 21st century learning and developing within our students critical thinking, effective communications and problem solving skills.
Email: robert.yoshida@vbschools.com
Website: https://birdneckes.vbschools.com/
Location: 957 South Birdneck Road, Virginia Beach, VA, United States
Phone: 757-648-2120
Facebook: facebook.com/birdneckes
Twitter: @BNESeagles