Principal's Weekly Update #12

Reminder that next Friday, November 22 will be an early release day for UPK-3rd grade.

• UPK will dismiss at 11:30
• K-3 parent pick-up will begin at 11:45
• bus dismissal will be at noon

November is national thankful month. It's an opportunity for us to take some time to reflect on the things we are thankful for. Last week while I was waiting to fill a prescription I noticed a small book written by Jennifer McCartney, The Little Book of Alpaca Philosophy. This little book is filled with simple advice that resonated with me and easily connects being thankful to finding small moments in each day to be appreciative.

The author asks, In what ways can you embrace a calmer, wiser, fuzzier way of life? The first chapter is devoted to reminding us that the world is a busy place. "Alpacas love the journey. There's nothing more fun than being on the way." There's so many things that fill our days and compete for our attention. So many things that we all care about- chores, social media, laundry, our jobs... Take a few minutes and slow down. Turn off the TV and/or your cell phone, eat dinner as a family tech-free and talk about your day, play a board game, and read books with your children before bed....

"Life goes by fast. Enjoy it and find ways to be present."

The 3rd grade student council is organizing donations for our giving tree. Donations of hats, mittens, and socks along with canned goods will be accepted at Wales Primary School 12/2-12/20. These items will be gifted to a local organizations that support our families in need.

FSC and Rural Outreach Center(ROC) have partnered to give a presentation on 12/4 at 6pm at the II.

We are hoping to gather families for this presentation to help gain knowledge of the family support center here at Iroquois as well as a wonderful resource within the community. The ROC will present on the services they offer from mental health care, mentoring and tutor programs, substance use, government programs such as WIC, HEAP, and SNAP, as well as access to foodbanks, free legal services, holiday services such as Christmas for kids and Christmas meals, winter coat and boot drive, as well as many other amazing resources and services they have to offer.

We are making accommodations for child care ages 4+(utilizing the gym to set up games and fun activities) and will have snacks for families as well.

This is a reminder that when your child is absent or tardy, legally we must have a note with a reason, upon the child's return to school. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

The student council is sponsoring a giving tree for the holiday season. We will be accepting donations of hats, mittens and socks and canned goods. These items can be accepted anytime, but will be displayed in our foyer from 12/2-12/20.

Danny's Helping Hands is now registering families in need for this holiday season! You can find the electronic registration forms on the district website. For assistance, feel free to contact Danny's Helping Hands directly at 716-290-0436 or via email at dannyshelpinghands@gmail.com.

11/22 Early Release Day UPK-3

• UPK will dismiss at 11:30
• K-3 parent pick-up will begin at 11:45
• bus dismissal will be at noon

11/27-11/29 Thanksgiving Recess