Volume 24, Issue 10 Friday, February 6, 2015
NOTES FROM THE PRINCIPAL’S DESK
Greetings,
Well winter sure has arrived in New England! Between the cold and this last storm, I am truly ready for some warmer weather. We have officially used all of our scheduled snow days. As of today, our last day of school is June 19th. I ask that you please stop wearing your pajamas inside out and backwards, putting spoons under your pillows, and doing snow dances in hope of yet another snow day. We want to be here!
Speaking of snow days and delays, you may have noticed that the Parent Reach calls are happening more frequently. Let me explain why: in mid January we sent out a survey about the Parent Reach system and notification of snow days and delay calls. We received over 100 replies and used that data to change how we communicate with families. The survey indicated that the majority of our families do not have Internet access at home and really like the Parent Reach phone calls. We also learned that families would like a call in the morning and on the evening before, if we know ahead of time. There were several families that asked for an email notice. The Parent Reach system cannot email, so as of now, I am sending those emails.
I’d like to remind everyone that I am only able to only send a group email from my computer. If for some reason the Internet (Comcast) is not working at my home, or if I have had a family emergency, I will not be sending out an email. I am working on a back-up plan, but at this point, it’s just me. I would like to encourage all of our families to check the local news stations and radio stations for alerts when bad weather is predicted. I use WWLP Channel 22 News text message alert system; typically I receive a text message alert from WWLP before I receive my official call from Superintendent Mahler. I went to WWLP.com and was able to sign up very easily.
It is important to remember that when you receive the Parent Reach call, you must answer loudly and clearly so the voice-activated message can hear you. If you let the call go to voicemail, be sure your greeting message is not too long, or it will not have a chance to leave the message because it repeats only twice. Also, it will call you up to three times if you do not say hello!
As we move forward in this very technological world, we will be researching more advanced alert systems for the FY’17 budget. We appreciate everyone’s patience as we work through the best ways to communicate with families. Please continue to keep us up to date with your phone numbers and if you choose to opt out of our Parent Reach system please put it in writing. If you missed out on the email list and would like to add your name, please email me at [email protected].
Thank you so much for working with us to keep everyone up-to-date.
Fondly,
Kelley
Library Line
The Six Flags "Read to Succeed" reading logs are due Tuesday, February 24. Each student in Kindergarten through sixth grade who reads for 6 hours and returns the reading log by the deadline will receive a child's ticket to Six Flags Amusement Park ($44.99 value). This deadline is strictly enforced by Six Flags; late submissions will not be accepted. I am required to submit the actual reading logs, so please be sure to sign the form. As of today, 4 students have earned their free ticket! A copy of the reading log is attached to this week's edition of The Current to complete during February vacation week.
Permission forms for the MCBA Books in Action Party for students in grades 4 through 6 are due by February 27. Students who have read at least 5 of the 25 MCBA books are eligible to attend this party, which will be held on Friday, March 6 at Leverett Elementary School.
As part of the celebration, we often choose a service project in which all families may participate. Since many books focused on dogs, we have selected The Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society which relies solely on contributions from people who care about animals. The following items are requested: dry dog food, dry and canned cat food, scoopable cat litter, cat toys, Kong rubber toys, bird perches, dish soap, bleach, postage stamps and copy paper. Students attending the party may bring their item(s) to the party; if you have a younger child and would like to make a donation, you may bring items to the library by Thursday, March 5.
Last Thursday, students in second through sixth grade were treated to a visit by children's author David A. Kelly! He discussed the writing process and talked about his books, including "The Ballpark Mysteries" series. Each student received a signed copy of the first book in the series "The Fenway Foul-Up". This visit was made possible through a grant from the New Salem Academy.
Make time to read,
Betsy
Science Fair 2015 Reminder
Help sessions began today!. Science helpers will be available Fridays from 8:45 a.m. - noon to help your scientist get started. If your child would like to meet with a helper please send in a note to his/her teacher.
PTCA News
PTCA meeting dates are the following Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. in the school library:
- February 12
- March 12
- April 9
- May 14
- June 4
All are welcome and encouraged to join us! Free childcare is provided by the Mahar Key Club. "Like" us on Facebook @ Swift River School PTCA
Reminder
Please label all coats, mittens, hats, sweatshirts, etc. Lost and Found is filling up, but more importantly, the children are not wearing the clothing you intended if it is hanging in the hallway.
COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD
These announcements and events are not school sponsored.
New Salem Teen and Tween News
February is Writing Club month!
Mara Bright, a local author, will come February 11th, 18th, and 25th to run a writing group for those of you who enjoy writing and want to work on your technique.
And on February 18th, we’ll be making shoes for children in Uganda, to protect them from foot-borne illnesses, for the charity Soles for Hope. It’s fun and easy! Bring your old blue jeans to donate for material.
We’re learning to play Risk! Come join a game and conquer the world. Some kids are writing a play to be put on for younger kids in the spring. Help out by acting in it, or working behind the scenes!
Get your homework done, use the computers, hangout with friends.
Open to 11 – 18 year olds from ANY town!
There’s something to do every Wednesday from 1:30 to 5:30. Free snacks and cocoa.
Mahar students! Pre-register with the library and we can arrange for you to take the school bus! You MUST pre-register by calling 978-544-6334 and bring a bus note from home if you are taking the school bus. Call the New Salem Library at 978-544-6334 for more information.
This project is being funded through the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners with funds from LSTA (Library Services and Technology Act), a federal source of funding provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Sciences.
The New Salem/Wendell School District assures that all programs, activities and employment opportunities are offered without regard to race, color, gender, age, creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, economic status, homelessness, sexual orientation and physical or mental disability.