We are Thankful

Collection for Ronald McDonald House Ends Tomorrow

At a Glance

NOVEMBER

22: Final day: Gators Give collection for Ronald McDonald House

27-29: Thanksgiving Break; Schools and Offices Closed

DECEMBER

3: MAP Testing for 2nd, 3rd and 5th (ELA)

4: MAP Testing for 1st and 4th (ELA)

10: MAP Testing for 2nd, 3rd and 5th (Math)

11: MAP Testing for 1st and 4th (Math)

6-12: Scholastic Book Fair

7: PTO Polar Express Breakfast, 8-10:00am, Carolina Wings Ballentine

16-20: Winter Break Spirit Week

19: Winter Strings and Chorus Performance, 6-7:00pm

December 23rd - January 7th: Winter Break

COLLECTION ENDS TOMORROW

NEWS FROM THE HEALTHROOM

Cold and Flu

Cold and Flu season is here. So far, we are starting to see an increase in the influenza virus in our school and community. We would like to be as proactive as possible in the spread of Influenza as we can.

The influenza virus is spread from person to person by droplet contact such as sneezing and coughing. Please reinforce with your child the importance of hand hygiene. Hand washing is the most effective way to help stop the spread of germs. Covering your mouth and nose when sneezing is a second preventative measure. Some symptoms to look out for include nausea, generalized body aches, fever, chills, sore throat, and fatigue. If you suspect your child may have an illness that can be spread to others, has a fever (100.4 or greater), please keep them home and contact your child's doctor. In order for your child to return to school, they will need to remain fever free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medication.

Head Lice

Head lice can be a problem from time to time in schools, and it is important to work together as a school community to minimize the frustration caused by the problem. You should examine your child's head at least weekly. Head Lice are little bugs; a full grown louse is about the size of a sesame seed. They crawl quickly when touched. They lay lots of eggs (also known as nits). Nits are usually at the nape of the neck/behind the ears and close to the scalp. Nits are oval in shape, white or gray in color and about the size of a knot of thread. They are firmly attached to the hair shaft. To determine whether or not you are seeing a nit try sliding it down the hair shaft using your fingers. Nits will be difficult to move, whereas dandruff and other items slide easily. Head lice can be a nuisance, but they have not been shown to spread disease. Personal hygiene or cleanliness in the home and school has nothing to do with getting head lice. For more information visit the D5 website’s School Health Services page or contact your school nurse.

CDC website | Nurse Penny Bradley | 803-476-4400 | pmbradley@lexrich5.org