The Roderick Review
June 2020
June Announcements
Dear Roderick Families,
After a wonderful year filled with excitement and lots of learning, we hope all Roderick families have a relaxing summer vacation! Over the past few months, students have adjusted well during unfortunate circumstances to a new method and process of learning during the school closure. We look forward to having all Roderick students spend quality time with family, socialize with friends, and read over the months of July and August. We know that all of our 6th grade students will have a successful transition to the King Philip Middle School both academically and socially.
In the last few weeks of virtual learning, both teachers and students are working diligently to finish their grade level curriculum units and celebrate the learning that each child has accomplished this year. Students have worked incredibly hard and have demonstrated respect, responsibility, and continuous growth and learning since August. Your continued support at home and communication has been essential in your child's development this school year.
Thank you for being supportive and flexible during the the school closure. As always; if you have any questions or concerns over the summer, please do not hesitate to let me know.
Sincerely,
Mr. Kevin Martes
Principal
2020-2021 School Year Information
Term 3 Report Cards
Grade 6 Promotion Ceremony
WPS Virtual Field Day
Hello Roderick Students,
The spirit of Field Day is alive! This year’s Field Day will be held on Monday, June 15th. It will be a little bit different, but the goal of Field Day will still be the same; to have fun, get outdoors, and participate in some great physical activity! Although you are at home, you can still participate in Field Day and show your spirit! We will be providing you with some descriptions and videos of some Field Day events for you to participate in throughout the day. Since circumstances are different this year, you will have the choice to complete as many of the events as you would like. However, we are encouraging you to complete at least 3 events throughout the day, but if you would like to complete them all, please feel free! All of the events are the WPS Field Day classics that you remember. Be sure to watch the videos and read the descriptions to complete the events correctly. We are excited to see your participation and spirit on Monday, June 15th for WPS Virtual Field Day 2020!
Sincerely,
Wrentham Public Schools P.E. Department
Roderick Playground Updates
Resources for Parents to Navigate Conversations and Support at Home
Message from Dot Pearl, King Philip Director of Wellness:
These are troubling times for a number of reasons. The recent events related to the killing of George Floyd raise emotions on many levels. Responses are often sparked by our own personal story, our own lived experiences. Parents and extended families can play vital roles in helping students of all ages process these emotions with honest, open discussions about what they have seen and heard through the media, and what they believe about race, racism, justice and other themes.
Racism and the trauma of repeated events such as these can certainly take their toll on mental health. “The American Psychological Association urges those who are experiencing trauma in the aftermath of these tragedies to practice self-care. Connect with family, friends and other community support people, talk about your feelings and limit your exposure and that of your children to news media and viral videos. Seek professional help if you need it.”
Beyond the Golden Rule: A Parent’s Guide to Preventing and Responding to Prejudice
Tolerance.org
Tips for Parents on Media Coverage
National Child Traumatic Stress Network
National Geographic
Talking to Kids About Discrimination
American Psychological Association
Helping Children Manage Stress in the Aftermath of a shooting
Applicable tips from American Psychological Society
Supporting Kids of Color in the Wake of Racialized Violence
Embracerace.org
2 part Webinar series including transcripts and listening option, with resources
10 Tips for Teaching and Talking to Kids About Race
From EmbraceRace.org, may be helpful for parents of elementary children.
Helping Children Cope with Frightening News
Child Mind Institute
Talking About Race: For Parents and Caregivers
(National Museum of African American History and Culture
George Floyd, Racism and Law Enforcement
Table Talk: Family Conversations About Current Events
Appropriate for age 11 and up
Tips for Conversation from ADL: Anti Defamation League:
Find out what young people know and use the summary information to expand upon their prior knowledge.
Ask what else they want to know and research together to learn more.
When discussing the topic, ask young open ended questions that deepen the conversation.
Be mindful not to judge their responses and listen thoughtfully.
Think together about a child-level action they can take; this can be something they do on their own or something you do together or as a family.
Books
There are many books on related topics. Parents may find the following book lists helpful.
Your Kids Aren’t Too Young to Talk About Race: Resource Roundup
Includes resources, tips, podcasts and books.
Books on Racism and Social Justice
Common Sense Media recommends books, organized by age span.
Social Justice Book List, National Network of State Teachers of the Year & University of Phoenix, listing by grade span, early learning - adult & teachers
Coretta Scott King Book Award Winners: books for children and young adults
31 Children's books to support conversations on race, racism and resistance
Something Happened in Our Town
Marianne Celano, Marietta Collins, Ann Hazzard
Ages 6-10
Addressing Racial Injustice with Young Children (Interview with authors of book above)The WPS Summer Learning Calendar will go live on June 12th!
Charles E. Roderick Elementary School
Email: martesk@wrenthamschools.org
Website: http://www.wrentham.k12.ma.us/
Location: 120 Taunton Street, Wrentham, MA, USA
Phone: 508-384-5430