4J Parent News
May 2024, Volume 2
Join Us: Celebrate 4J Educators & Retirees on May 30
The Golden Apple Awards and Retiree Appreciation Celebration is just around the corner. Join us on Thursday, May 30, starting at 5:30 p.m., at Arts & Technology Academy, 1650 W. 22nd Ave., for an evening of appreciation for 4J’s talented and dedicated educators.
Socialize with staff, friends and family members, and enjoy some light refreshments starting at 5:30 p.m. The program will begin at 6 p.m. and features:
- Musical performance by ATA’s Advanced Band
- Short videos celebrating our three Golden Apple Award finalists in each of the four categories: administrator, classified, licensed and volunteer
- Announcement of Golden Apple Award winners (see the nominees)
- Presentation of the Lifetime Achievement award and — new this year — the 4J Spotlight Award
- Recognition of this year’s class of 4J retirees
We look forward to seeing you there! Questions? Email info@4j.lane.edu.
Quality ZZZs: Good Sleep Vital to Mental Health
May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the importance of mental well-being. Our district understands that promoting mental health goes beyond a single month—it's a daily commitment -- so we're highlighting resources and initiatives aimed at fostering positive mental health.
This week, we focus on the importance of sleep to better regulate emotions, reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance an overall sense of well-being. To help get a good night's sleep, stick to a routine, limit screen time and caffeine right before bed, and use relaxation techniques. Recognize that children and teenagers need more sleep than adults and assist them in a getting a good night's rest. More tips can be found on 4J website.
Reminder: School Make-Up Day on June 14
The school year will conclude on Friday, June 14, a day later than originally planned due to school closures caused by the ice storm in January.
The school board approved adding two designated hazardous weather make-up days to the school calendar earlier this year: Monday, Feb. 19, Presidents Day, and Friday, June 14.
For more calendar information, please visit: 4j.lane.edu/calendars.
Kindergarten Registration as Easy as the ABCs
Do you, a family member or a friend have a child who will be 5 years old by Sept. 1? Now it's easier than ever to register a kindergartner with 4J's new drop-in registration program.
Stop by our district office at 200 N. Monroe St. from 3:30–6:30 p.m. on the dates below for assistance completing the kindergarten registration paperwork and get answers to any questions you have. The sooner you register, the better prepared we can be for next year's kindergarten class. We look forward to seeing you!
Drop-In Kinder Registration: Wed., May 29 | Mon., June 10 | Wed., July 10 | Tues., Aug. 6
Whooping Cough Spreading in Lane County
County health officials say a recent rise in cases of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, indicate the respiratory tract infection is spreading in our community. Families are encouraged to stay up-to-date with their pertussis vaccinations and keep children home from school if they show symptoms of pertussis.
Early symptoms, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, include:
- Runny or stuffed-up nose
- Low-grade fever (less than 100.4°)
- Mild, occasional cough (babies do not do this)
- Apnea (life-threatening pauses in breathing), and cyanosis (turning blue or purple) in babies and young children
Pertussis spreads rapidly, and some area residents are underprotected due to declining immunization rates over the past several years. Families are encouraged to contact their pediatrician or doctor if they have questions about their child's or family member's immunization against pertussis, or if their child or family member may be exhibiting symptoms of pertussis.
Sixth through eighth grade student-athletes competed in more than dozen championship events for boys and girls at Willamette High School. 4J has sponsored the middle school track and field program for decades, and recently started a second middle school sport — cross-country -- that competes in the fall. Research suggests school-sponsored sports increases academic achievement, self-esteem, and overall health and development, and our district seeks to provide more opportunities to provide students those potential benefits.
Thanks to the WK Kellogg Co., which presented a $17,941 check at a sub-district meet on May 7, all eight middle school teams are now able to compete in official uniforms. The kids (and adults) had a blast with the mascots: Tony the Tiger from Kellogg's; Dougie the Douglas Fir from Safeway; and Leo the Lion from Madison Middle School. And let's not forget the mascot race, where our very own Leo took home the victory!
4J Teacher Receives National Recognition
Congratulations to Patricia Polter, language arts teacher at Monroe Middle School, who has been recognized for her outstanding work helping students read at their grade level.
Patricia was one of about two dozen educators nationally to be named an 180 Award winner. The Read 180 program provides crucial reading intervention for students at the middle and high school levels, offering vital support where it's most needed.
Patricia was recognized for "creating a vibrant and engaging learning environment. Her ability to connect motivational strategies with educational outcomes has significantly enhanced student engagement, driving remarkable progress in their reading journeys."
Two other 4J educators, Casey Allbritten and Misty Bisby, language arts teachers at Sheldon High School and Madison Middle School, respectively, were nominated for an 180 Award. Thank you to each of you for your unwavering commitment to education and the power of literacy!
In The News
Best Medicine: 4J recognized our health care professionals during National School Nurse Day on May 6
Teacher Appreciation: We gave a huge THANK YOU to our amazing 4J teachers for all that you do during Teacher Appreciation Week on May 6–10. You are our shining stars!
