|
|
VOLUME X NO 6 April 11, 2008
OUR MISSION: CHALLENGE, SUCCESS AND LOVE OF LEARNING FOR EVERY ONE EVERYDAY. OUR MOTTO: TOGETHER WE LEARN Our school lives by the Golden Rule. We expect everyone to treat each other in a kind manner. As adults we model that respect daily.
SCHOOL UPDATE March came in like a lion and left like a lion, too. We all look forward to warmer spring weather now that April is here. It would be great if we could just skip mud season. In spite of the weather, your children participated in many engaging and enriching activities in March. It was wonderful to see you during our parent/teacher conferences. We work together to use these opportunities to meet and collaborate in ways that result in greater success for your children. Your interest and willingness to participate in your children's education have a very powerful impact on their success in school. Your children understand that education is a top priority and your partnership with their teachers is essential to their success. Thank you so much for your support! Your children benefit so much from participating in activities with community members and students from the other schools in our district. Our Read Across America celebration was a great success. Central School students spent their DEAR (Drop Everything And Read) time listening to guest readers who shared their favorite books with each classroom. Guest readers included district principals, administrators, school board members, students and our own office staff. The day ended with Officer Chris Burbank sharing his favorite book with the whole school. We hope he'll make next year the third year he joins us to share his favorite book. Susie Burke led us as we sang our favorite songs about reading with special verses written just for our students! We are so fortunate to have this special kind of community support. Our children experienced the joy of sharing good books with peers, older students and adults from their community. Later in the month, a group of more than 30 high school students visited Central School to work with our students and staff members. High school students read with students and provided support in classroom science centers and during the use of technology. They updated our playground/hot top areas, painted a hallway mural, cleaned musical instruments, taught children new games during recess and worked with Ms. Higgins and Ms. Mann to begin a memory wall for Mrs. Whicher. Your children responded so positively to these high school students. This week students from MGWS will visit classrooms to join your children in reading projects. We look forward to working with district student volunteers throughout the year. All students benefit from these well-planned opportunities that allow them to work and learn together. The two first grade concert performances were a great success. We were so fortunate to have our artist in residence, Susie Burke, perform with our students. Your children loved every song and were so happy and proud to see the familiar faces of brothers, sisters, families, friends and neighbors. Thank you so much for supporting these performances! We are happy to see so many of you during our Friday whole school gatherings. It is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our "Students of the Week", welcome new students and recognize birthdays. Students volunteer to sing, read and share their knowledge and talents. This month kindergarten students did a fine job of presenting their version of The Tortoise and the Hare. You are always welcome to attend. On the first Friday of every month Central School students are encouraged to participate in our Walk/Bike day. Central School students, their families and staff members walk or ride bikes from Great Works School to Central School. They enjoy greeting Great Works School students and staff members who walk from Central School to GWS. Central School students with signed permission slips always have the option to participate in this healthy way to start the day. You and your children are always welcome to join us. Our Pre-K Pacers begin their school days by walking in the gym. They have walked 685 miles this year! Thank you so much for sending your children to school so well prepared to learn and participate in all of our activities of the day. They came to school well rested and ready for the MEA testing at the beginning of March. Our Recyclops team of third grade students can be seen collecting paper and other recyclables each Wednesday afternoon. Recycling in the cafeteria continues to include milk and juice cartons and leftover food. We have dramatically reduced the amount of trash that must go to the dumpster. Volunteer "junior custodians" help with recycling in the cafeteria during lunch and work to keep our floors dry and clean. Other students have volunteered to clean up our playground. Our PTO Garden Day on April 12 will add picnic tables to our playground and courtyard. What a wonderful addition they will make to our playground and courtyard. Our PTO does so much to make things happen at Central School. We cannot thank them enough for all they do and all of the support they provide for our students and staff members. They provided delicious food for our staff members during our evening conferences. A special thank you to Paula Renaud, Kara Plank, Mylene Hollick, Nicole Parmley, Candice Gardner, Jennifer True, Jane Adams, Julie Cole, Kim Barber, Terri George, Maria Cannon, Kim Whelan and Carin Sarzynski for all those tasty dishes!! |Conferences begin 30 minutes after the regular school days ends and we are so grateful for their thoughtfulness. At this month's meeting Ms. Mann will speak about the Fine Arts Week activity that the PTO sponsors each year. This year's Fine Arts Week will be spectacular because of thoughtful planning and the support we receive from our PTO. Next month staff members will speak about our reading program. We hope to see you at these meetings. The use of technology in our classrooms continues to increase. Our two COWs (Computers on Wheels) are used to their maximum capacity. Technology allows teachers to differentiate student-learning activities. Grace Jacobs, our district GT consultant, continues to consult with our classroom teachers and works with students in the classroom to integrate technology as a tool for social studies, science, math and literacy. Volunteers have been very helpful learning partners for our students and staff members. Central school is such a busy place to learn and grow. Our community volunteers make so many important contributions that help our students experience "Challenge, Success and Love of Learning". Thank you so much for the time and support you contribute both from home and in Central School. Our new lunch swipe card program is working very well. Your children are enjoying the added vegetables and fruits that are served each day. Thank you for sending your children prepared for physical education and recess each day. We do plan to go outside each day even if it is just for a run around the hot top. We have two treadmills that are being used by students and staff members. We are always looking for volunteers to help during recesses and lunch times. Please let us know if you are able to volunteer. April will be another exciting month. We are so happy that we were able to begin the month with a performance by Rick Charette. Rick shares such an important message about personal safety and children enjoy participating in his performance. Thank you so much for all you do to make our Central School community an engaging and safe place to learn. WOW NEWS WOW is coming again! The dates for WOW will be May 13th, May 20th, 27th and June 3rd! Please look for WOW sign ups coming home after April vacation. There will be arts, physical education, fun and games and much more! If you are interested in teaching a class please let me know as soon as you can. Thank you! - Nina D'Aran
UPCOMING DATES TO MARK ON YOUR CALENDAR April: 11th, Friday Grade One to Charlotte's Web Rescheduled Bike/Walk to School 14th, Monday-18th, Friday Fine Arts Week 21st Monday-25th, Friday April Vacation May: 1st , Thursday Walk/bike to School PM Whole school assembly 7th, Wednesday School Board 7:00 MHS ACES 9th, Friday Hike Through History 12th, Monday Hike rain date 15th, Thursday Pre-K Concert 22nd, Thursday Ice Cream Smorgasbord-on Central's Lawn 23rd, Friday No school Pre-K &endash;Grade 8 26th, Monday Memorial Day-No School 28th, Wednesday Grade 3 Concert 2:00 and 6:30 June: 6th, Friday Walk/Bike to school Music Petting Zoo Grade Three 12:30 13th, Friday Kindergarten graduation 16th, Monday Field Day 17th, Tuesday Field Day (Rain Date) 18th, Wednesday School Board 7:00 MHS
Thank you so much for all you do to make Central School such a wonderful place to learn and grow-for everyone every day!! MISCELLANEOUS Please continue to send in the Boxtops for Education and the Campbell Soup labels. We are still collecting printer ink cartridges.
FINE ARTS WEEK
Fine arts week is an opportunity for specialists to introduce and showcase visiting and professional artists from all areas of the arts to Central School students.
This year's theme for Fine Arts Week is Community. We feel this to be an especially appropriate theme since this year as our school has faced many challenges and has greatly benefited from being part of a caring and supportive community.
We invited members of our community to share their talents with us here at Central School. Many generous individuals responded and as a result Fine Arts Week 2008 will be an exciting and vibrant experience for our students.
Music and Library
Kris Bisson will be working with kindergarten students for two days. Kris is a musician and former music teacher with an easy smile and a special way with children.
Marla Evans will be sharing her puppets and love of music with first and third grade students. Marla's enthusiasm is contagious and shows in her other endeavors, such as a talent show she organizes and puts on every year for children.
Sammie Haynes, a well-known local musician, will be singing with second grade. The students will no doubt get excited, from this great experience, and be ready for the concert on Monday night!
Sam Goodall, a violinist, will be sharing her music and knowledge about being a professional musician with third graders in the music room. She has visited Central School before and we are lucky to have her back again.
Mary Kaye, a talented local children's musician, will be singing with first grade. She will also be working with students to do a response to her music about animals with their own pictures and ideas. Mary's songs are full of heart and life, and the students are in for a treat.
Physical Education
The women of South Berwick Yoga and Childlight Yoga have generously offered to share yoga with kindergarten, second, and third grade students. They are already in first grade classrooms on a regular basis sharing their knowledge and skill. Here's what they have to say about what will be happening during fine arts week!
Yoga for Kids! Think you need to put your foot behind your head to do yoga? No way! We'll use yoga poses to mimic our favorite animals, learn to take a deep breath, play yoga games, stretch, sing and laugh...it's yoga for kids! Hosted by ChildLight Yoga!!
Art
Lisa Kiesman, a "renaissance woman" has generously committed her time and talents for kindergarten, first and third grade fine arts week classes. As the hands on takes time, Lisa is spending a majority of this week with students as well as next week.
In kindergarten classes students will be getting slimy and messy as they create a "school" of fantastic fish in the style of the ancient Japanese art of "Gyotaku" (fish printing). The students will see how all the individual fish are different and compliment each other as they come together to form a large colorful community (like we do here at school!). The fish will then be used to brighten some of the areas of Central School.
Students in first grade will learn about animal totems as a way of representing their individual characteristics. We'll discuss how we are all different and each person has special gifts that add to our community. Individual flags will be made by each student and will be hung together to create a cloth "totem pole" of each class, a traditional representation of community.
Karen Pence, an interior designer, will be coming to share her knowledge and talents with second graders. She will talk about the history of the village, how they started and then thrived, and a bit about South Berwick's history. Students will learn about how in a strong village we all bring strengths and our individual differences, make connections, which in turn makes a strong community. Students will build a sculptural representation of this idea and then draw their ideas for the inside of their structures.
Third grade artists will be learning about totem animals as well. After identifying their animal symbol they will be given a 5x5" square. The squares will be painted and mounted as part of a perpetual calendar that will be hung outside the office. The community of Central school will use the calendar for years to come!
Concerts
Monday Evening: Susie and David burke and the Laufmans at 6pm Thursday: 10-11 Steel Drum Band 2-2:45 The Divas Friday: 1:45-2:45 The Digbees
From the NURSE: STREP THROAT We have had many cases of STREP throat recently at Central School. Here is information from the Mayo Clinic website regarding this bacterial infection:
A sore, scratchy throat is often the first sign that you're getting sick, and it's a common reason people see their doctors. Most sore throats, such as those that accompany a cold or the flu, are caused by viral infections and usually go away on their own within a few days. Only a small portion of sore throats are the result of strep throat. But it's important to identify this bacterial throat infection for a number of reasons. Unlike other causes of sore throat, strep throat is treatable. The bacteria that cause strep throat respond quickly to antibiotics, and treatment stops the infection from spreading to other people. If not treated, strep throat infections can sometimes cause complications such as rheumatic fever. Rheumatic fever can cause painful and inflamed joints and a rash, and can even result in damage to heart valves. Another potential complication of strep throat infections is kidney inflammation. Strep throat is most common in children between the ages of 5 and 15, but it affects people of all ages. In addition to throat soreness, signs and symptoms typically include a fever plus tender and swollen lymph glands (nodes) in the neck. Younger children may also complain of abdominal pain. If you or your child has signs or symptoms of strep throat, see your doctor. A quick test can result in diagnosis of strep throat in most cases, so that treatment can start promptly. Signs and symptoms In general, signs and symptoms of strep throat include: Throat pain Difficulty swallowing Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or streaks of pus Swollen, tender lymph glands (nodes) in your neck Fever Headache Rash Stomachache and sometimes vomiting, especially in younger children
It's possible for you or your child to have many of these signs and symptoms, but not have strep throat. The cause of these signs and symptoms could be a virus, tonsillitis or other illnesses. That's why your doctor generally tests specifically for strep throat. It's also possible to have the bacteria that cause strep in your throat without having a sore throat. Some people are carriers of strep, which means they can pass the bacteria on to others, but the bacteria no longer make them sick. Causes The cause of strep throat is bacteria known as Streptococcus pyogenes, or group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus. Streptococcal bacteria are highly contagious. They can spread through airborne droplets when someone with the infection coughs or sneezes. You can also pick up the bacteria from a doorknob or other surface and transfer them to your nose or mouth. Kitchen utensils and bathroom objects are other common sources of infection transmission. Risk factors Strep throat occurs most commonly in children between the ages of 5 and 15. Children with recurrent strep throat whose tonsils are intact are more than three times as likely to develop subsequent episodes of strep throat as are children who've had their tonsils removed, according to a 2006 Mayo Clinic study. While strep throat can occur at any time of the year, it tends to circulate in late fall, winter and early spring. Strep bacteria flourish wherever groups of people are in close contact. That's why the infection spreads easily among family members, in schools and in child care settings. When to seek medical advice Call your doctor if you or your child has any of these signs and symptoms: A sore throat without a cold or runny nose A sore throat accompanied by tender, swollen lymph glands (nodes) A sore throat that lasts longer than 48 hours A fever higher than 103 F in older children, or any fever lasting longer than 48 hours Rash Joint pain Problems breathing or difficulty swallowing anything, including saliva
Call your doctor if you or your child does not feel better after taking antibiotics for 24 to 48 hours. Sometimes problems occur even after you or your child has finished treatment for strep throat. Call your doctor if your child develops a fever &emdash; or has pain or swelling in the joints, shortness of breath or a rash &emdash; after a strep infection, even as long as three weeks after a strep infection. These can be indicators of rheumatic fever. Cola-colored urine after a strep throat infection may indicate kidney inflammation. Complications Although strep throat itself isn't dangerous, it may lead to serious complications if left untreated. These complications include other infections, such as: Tonsillitis or a collection of pus around the tonsils caused by infection Sinus infection Ear infection Scarlet fever, an illness characterized by a rash
Strep throat may also lead to inflammation of the kidney and rheumatic fever. However, the risk of developing severe complications from strep throat is low in the United States. Treatment If you or your child has strep throat, your doctor will likely prescribe an oral antibiotic. Antibiotics reduce the duration and severity of symptoms, as well as the risk of complications and the likelihood that infection will spread to classmates or family members. Once treatment begins, you or your child should start feeling better in just a day or two. Call your doctor if you or your child doesn't feel better after taking antibiotics for 24 to 48 hours. If children on antibiotic therapy feel well and don't have a fever, they often can return to school or child care when they're no longer contagious &emdash; 24 hours after beginning treatment. But be sure to finish the entire course of medicine. Stopping medication early may lead to recurrences and serious complications, such as rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation. Prevention Proper hand cleaning is the best way to prevent all kinds of infections. That's why it's important to clean your own hands regularly and to teach your children how to clean their hands properly, using soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. In addition, teach your children to cover their mouths when they cough or sneeze. And if you or your child does have strep throat, don't share drinking glasses or eating utensils. Wash those items carefully in hot, soapy water or in a dishwasher. For some children who struggle with recurrent strep throat, removing the tonsils (tonsillectomy) may provide relief. The decision to remove a child's tonsils must be weighed against various factors, however, including the risks of anesthesia and bleeding after the procedure and missed school days to recover from the procedure. Self-care In most cases, antibiotics will quickly wipe out the bacteria behind the infection. In the meantime, try these tips to relieve symptoms of strep throat: Get plenty of rest. Sleep helps your body fight infection. If you have strep throat, stay home from work if you can. If your child is ill, keep him or her at home until there's no sign of fever and he or she feels better. Drink plenty of water. Keeping a sore throat lubricated and moist eases swallowing. Drinking plenty of water also helps prevent dehydration. Eat soothing foods. Foods that are easy on a sore throat include broths, soups, applesauce, cooked cereal, mashed potatoes, soft fruits, yogurt and soft-cooked eggs. You may even want to puree foods in the blender to make them easier to swallow. Very cold foods such as sherbet, frozen yogurt or frozen fruit pops also may be soothing. Avoid spicy foods or acidic foods such as orange juice. Gargle with warm salt water. For older children and adults, gargling several times a day can help relieve throat pain. Mix 1/4 teaspoon of table salt in 8 ounces of warm water. Be sure to tell your child to spit out the liquid after gargling. Use a humidifier. Adding moisture to the air can help ease discomfort. Moisture keeps mucous membranes in your throat from becoming dry and even more irritated. Choose a cool-mist humidifier and clean it daily, because bacteria and molds can flourish in some humidifiers. Saline nasal sprays also help to keep mucous membranes moist. Stay away from irritants. Cigarette smoke can irritate a sore throat and increase the likelihood of infections such as tonsillitis. In addition, avoid fumes from paint or cleaning products, which can be irritating to your throat and lungs. Plan low-key activities for a sick child. If your child tests positive for strep throat, he or she should take antibiotics for at least 24 hours before returning to school or child care. When staying home with your child, plan some low-key activities that you both can enjoy. These can be things you don't normally have time to do, such as reading a favorite book aloud.
At Central School
Clubhouse Kids is a not-for-profit before and after school enrichment program located in the cafeteria at Central School. The program opened in 2004 with an enrollment of less than ten and today provides care for over 85 families.
Clubhouse Kids is for children ages 5 to 11 years old. Children from Central School and The Great Works School attend. You do not have to be a South Berwick resident to be enrolled- anyone from the seacoast area is welcome at the program.
Children enrolled in the program are given a safe place to play and study under the supervision of caring, trained staff members. Clubhouse Kids offer various enrichment programs for students who do not need childcare but who wish to participate in the fun!
Clubhouse Kids is licensed to provide care for 49 children. Children attend on a part-time or full-time basis. Drop-in care is also available with 24-hour notice on a space available basis. The program offers after school enrichment programs to the entire school population as well as to students regularly attending Clubhouse Kids. These programs include winter, science and nature studies, art and dance, story telling and puppeteer activities, instruction in various craft projects and much more.
Clubhouse Kids is open from 6:30am to 8:30am and from 3:00pm to 6:00pm on regular school days. No care is available after 6:00pm. On Early Release days and Teacher Workshop Days extended full care is available, 7am-6pm. Clubhouse Kids is open on delayed snow days and when school is dismissed early. The program is flexible; as it allows parents to choose the days they need their children to attend whether it is one day, all week or different days throughout the school year. Children have the opportunity to participate in arts and crafts, sports, games, workshops and other fun activities. A homework center is available daily for all children attending the program.
Clubhouse Kids offers Parents' Night Out and holds many theme parties throughout the school year (Winter Carnival, Super Bowl, Halloween, Baseball, etc.)
Anyone who'd like more information or a registration packet can stop by Clubhouse Kids any time before or after school. You may also call us at 384-2533, ask for Shelly Vetter.
Come join the club!
SCHOOLPOP.COM
|
|||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
