Glacier Ridge Gazette

August 18, 2023

September 13, 2024

DR. KURTY'S CORNER

Press Pause

My youngest daughter turned 13 last weekend, which means that I have two teenagers in the house - one of which is in middle school and the other is driving. As you can imagine, there are a lot of “events” that occur for me in the Kurty household.

Last week, I talked about E + R = O (Event + Response = Outcome). We already know that we can’t control the Event that happens to us. We can control our Response, which can lead to a better Outcome. However, controlling our response is easier said than done.

As a father of two teens, I anticipate that there will be predictable events for me. Teenagers often act with emotion, therefore, removing my emotion from my response helps diffuse the situation. It’s the amygdala in our brain that sends us into fight or flight mode when we are exposed to a threat or a high intense situation. This is part of our nature so we didn’t get eaten by a sabertooth tiger back in the day.

Press Pause means literally pausing before you say or do anything after an event. It forces your brain to process information before reacting out of emotion. I have certainly NOT pressed pause before and responded back to my family. I’m human. Consequently, that often makes the situation worse. It ends up turning into a more intense conversation.

If my intent is for my daughter to listen and understand my perspective, then responding out of frustration and at a time when she is dysregulated certainly isn’t the best time to teach her about that. Therefore, pressing pause allows me to regulate my emotions, think through my language, and respond at the best time and method to have a better outcome. A phrase we often say in education is, that a dysregulated adult can never regulate a dysregulated child. You can’t fight fire with fire when dealing with children.

Modeling and teaching regulation skills is how children learn to regulate their emotions. Regulating emotions is a skill and it takes practice to break the habit of reacting out of fight or flight instinct. So, what do you do about it?

Have a phrase ready so when your emotions are high, you don’t have to think about what to say. Instead, say:

“I hear you and I understand what you are saying. I'm going to pause right now before responding and we can talk about it a little later when we are both a little more calm.”

Notice that I say, “...when we are both a little more calm.” Putting the blame or telling someone to calm down doesn’t work. “...when we are both a little more calm,” shares the ownership of regulating emotions. That simple phrase helps me keep my emotions in check, while at the same time making my daughter feel immediately heard.

It’s all easier said than done. So, good luck and keep practicing. I’m still working on it in all aspects of my life.

Have a great weekend and happy pausing,

Pete Kurty, Ed. D

Principal

Glacier RIdge Elementary

Three part series about how we inadvertently treat children differently Part 3: Parents are teachers too Expect growth, not perfection. My generation constantly heard the phrase, “There’s no such thing as perfection.” That concept is absolutely true. I’m not sure exactly why or where that phrase originated from. As adults, we certainly know that to be true. High achievers also know that perfection is an impossible outcome. I’m not a perfect principal, father, husband, or leader. However, we sometimes expect children to be perfect - especially during a time when they are just learning how to navigate life and new skills. Children make mistakes….a lot of them. Not only that, but they should make mistakes. That is how they best learn how to navigate life, problem solve, and build resilience for adversity. Teach, don’t tell: When my children were younger, it was much easier to tell them what to do and how to do it. They would often listen because they understood the authoritative structure of child and parent. However, now that I have two young teenagers, just telling them what to do because I’m the parent doesn’t work any more. Furthermore, telling someone something is not a good teaching strategy either. As parents, we are teachers. Telling and giving information is NOT teaching. When someone can understand the concert, apply the skill, think abstractly about it, and then apply it in a variety of new situations, that is the teaching and learning process. It’s easier said than done (especially with teens AND adults). However, that is the most effective process. Enforce growth & reflection, not outcome: Because we have navigated life for decades, we often forget that children are just learning how to do things for the first time. As a child, you are often doing many things in life for the first time. When doing something for the first time, being good at it initially is a rarity, let alone perfect (which is impossible). Instead of expecting perfection, look for growth and reflection. I have found that my children will often just want to do it the way they want to. Schoolwork is a common example. You would think that having my doctorate would make me an expert in teaching children. Regardless, my children don’t see it that way. Instead of portraying that I know what I’m talking about, I ask them reflective questions to get them to plan and explain what they think they need to do. I force them to reflect and plan ahead of time. What is your goal? What do you want from doing this or this way)? Why do you think this is the best way/plan? What are there things that could go wrong? I’m here to support you and I believe in you. What can I do to help you? Afterwards, regardless of whether the outcome was positive or detrimental, we try to reflect. This is often harder because the children are anticipating a parent lecture. So navigate this with caution and don’t force it. They often know their shortcomings and just don’t want to talk about it. I’m proud of you for carrying out your plan. Is there something I could have done differently to help you? (This shows that you are a team and support them in failure and success). What did you plan that went well? What would you plan differently next time? Feedback: Feedback is an important part of learning as well. Again, in the younger years, it is easier. However, that is what also allows adults to just give feedback in a way that we wouldn’t want as adults. If I try something new for the first time at work, I certainly wouldn’t want my boss to just give me constructive feedback. Instead provide balanced feedback and couple it with the reflective questions above. Teaching and learning is about growth and ownership. If someone just tells me what to do, I don’t have any ownership in it. Growth and change occurs more out of strengths than deficits. In other words, I’m more likely to build on my strengths and success than the things that are harder for me to change. Therefore, begin with the reflective questions above and then feedback about what was positive and successful. Follow that with the reflection questions about what to change and feedback. End with a supportive question to show your support and care. Don’t forget to incorporate conversation, questions, and feedback about their effort. Sometimes they have a great plan, but the outcome wasn’t as expected. Therefore, reinforce the amount and quality of the effort that they put in, and don’t focus solely on the outcome. We are growing and learning as parents, too. We make mistakes and it’s okay for our kids to know that. That allows them to see that making mistakes themselves is okay. However, we all must learn and grow from those mistakes. Ironically, it is better for them to know that a perfect parent doesn’t exist either. Sincerely, Pete Kurty, Ed. D Principal

GLACIER RIDGE INFORMATION

Military Families

Glacier Ridge has a long-standing tradition of supporting and honoring the military through our Veterans Day celebration and Operation Kids for Troops initiative. Our goal is to continue to strengthen our support of the military through ongoing activities and resources and eventually become a Purple Heart School. You can see the requirements for the Purple Heart Designation through the Ohio Department of Education.

Glacier Ridge would like to know more about your military family service. Please fill out this form so we can connect with your family this school year.

Tiger Trot Online Fundraiser-

We are only 1 week away from wrapping up our annual Tiger Trot fundraiser with 16% (92 of 558 students) donating to the GRE PTO. View here for all of the details – 2024 Tiger Trot Information Flier including a sign-up for much needed volunteers for the afternoon timeslot!

GRE focuses on coming together as one community, so our fundraiser strives to have 100% schoolwide participation. Participation means donating any dollar amount - large or small. Current class participation leaders include:

Kent AM = 45%
Thiry = 33%
Watts AM = 30%

Check it off your weekend to-do list and make a donation today at: https://pledgestar.com/grepto/. We need your help to make this a huge success as the dollars we earn as a GRE community will fund all of the wonderful opportunities for this school year!

Student Spirit Wear

The GRE online spirit wear store is now LIVE! Don’t miss this limited time opportunity to snag some PAWsome spirit wear for yourself or gifts for your favorite GRE Tigers. The deadline to order is Sunday, September 29. Your Tiger gear will ship directly to school 2-4 weeks after the store closes. To place your order, visit https://tinyurl.com/fhez6h2x.

Redistricting Information

Dublin City Schools is committed to keeping our community informed as we navigate the redistricting process. As such, we are providing the most current information on our website for families. This section of the website will include information about upcoming redistricting events and recordings from past events, as well as general information and frequently asked questions. The page will be updated as new information becomes available.

Student Panorama Survey

During the weeks of September 19 to October 1, Dublin City Schools students in Grades 3-12 will participate in a questionnaire asking their perceptions about school and student support. Click HERE for complete parent information regarding the survey. You may click HERE to request your child opt out of taking the survey.

If you have questions about how this questionnaire helps us meet District goals or the process we use, please contact Dublin City Schools’ Director of Student Wellness, Tyler Wolfe at wolfe_tyler@dublinschools.net

Student Flu Vaccine Clinic

Dublin City Schools will be providing students who are at least 7 years old with the opportunity to receive flu shots at their school. Glacier Ridge's Flu Clinic for students will be on 10/10/24, from 12:00 PM-2:00 PM.

If you would like your child to receive a flu vaccine on 10/10/24 at Glacier Ridge Elementary School, please complete the consent form here. You must complete Section 1, Section 2, and Section 3 (questions 2-11) on page 1 of the consent form, as well as the insurance information (if insured) on page 2 of the form. We ask that you return this completed consent form to your school clinic by October 8, 2024.

*Please note, your child must be at least 7 years old to receive a flu vaccine through Dublin City Schools.

Please look here to view the complete Flu Clinic Schedule offered by Dublin City Schools.

Let Me Run – Fall Season 2024

Registration now open for 3rd grade boys as well as 4th and 5th grade boys.

Let Me Run is a nonprofit wellness program that inspires boys to be themselves, be active, and belong. With a comprehensive curriculum that applies the power of running, the program encourages boys to develop their psychological, emotional and social health, in addition to their physical health. Twice a week for seven weeks, two trained volunteer coaches lead the boys through practice. Designed to amplify confidence, self-expression, and respect for others, each practice includes a lesson from the Let Me Run curriculum that incorporates running, games and activities. Each fall and spring season culminates in a 5k race festival that celebrates the boys’ personal growth.

The Let Me Run team at Glacier Ridge is preparing for the upcoming Fall 2024 season. We will be running the program at Glacier Ridge again this Fall season for 3rd, 4th and 5th grade boys.

Our first run of the new season will be on Tuesday September 24th. We will be running twice a week after school on every Tuesday and Friday, with each session finishing at 5:15. The Fall season will finish 7 weeks later with our “End of the season 5K” on Saturday November 9th.

Online registration for the Fall season is now open. Visit LetMeRun.org to register. For more information contact Alan Roberts (alan.roberts9876@gmail.com)

SIGN UP & VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Parent/Guardian Volunteer Background Check

SECURE VOLUNTEER BADGE - Dublin City Schools takes the safety of our students and staff seriously and requires a background check for all volunteers interacting with students. In order to attend field trips or volunteer in the classroom, you much go through the background check process. The process is free and easy and takes only a few minutes to complete. This is required for any parents or caregivers wishing to volunteer with students.

Morning Tiger Student Announcements

Would you like to start your day saying “Hello!” to everyone at Glacier Ridge in the morning? Are you in 2nd thru 5th grade? Then sign up to read the morning announcements! If you would like to find out more about this opportunity and sign up to be a Tiger Student Announcer then go to this link via SignUp Genius: Morning Tiger Student Announcements

Students can sign up only 1 time per week.

Glacier Ridge Student Greeter Team

Glacier Ridge Elementary believes in creating a caring and comfortable environment for it's community of learners. This begins as students enter the front doors of the school in the morning. Sign up your child to be a greeter. Students gain confidence, become leaders, and learn how to present themselves in a positive way.

Click on this link to find out more specific information.

GRE EVENTS

Upcoming GRE Events

September 18th- Fall Picture Day

September 18th- PTO General Meeting @ 10am (virtual)

September 20th- Tiger Trot

September 27th- PTO sponsored Fall Festival @ Leeds Farm

September 30th- Yearbook art contest begins

October 10th- Student flu shot clinic

October 14th- Yearbook art contest ends

October 16th- Family conferences night 1

October 18th- No School (staff professional day)

October 23rd- Picture day make-ups

October 24th- Family conferences night 2

October 28th- Operation Kids for Troops collection begins

October 31st- Harvest party

November 1st- Feed the Kids candy collection begins

November 2nd- PTO cookie dough & pastry sale begins

November 3rd- Daylight savings day

Subscribe to the GRE Google Community Calendar

DISTRICT UPDATES

Why Teens Take Risks and How We Can Help Keep Them Safe

Last year our community faced several tragic events involving teens. It’s crucial for parents and community members to understand why teens take impulsive risks and how to intervene. On October 14, Dr. Jess Shatkin, a leading expert in child and adolescent mental health, will offer insights to help DCS parents and staff support and protect our children. Local officials and organizations will also be on hand to share information about available resources and services. Space is limited, so reserve your seat here.

New Opportunities Posted on Info Hub

Check out the Info Hub Page for more details and to learn about new opportunities such as the Dublin Sparks Jump Rope team tryouts and other fun activities.

PATHS Program Products for Sale

Our merchandise represents not only high-quality products but also a commitment to making a difference in the lives of young adults in the PATHS program. By empowering our students with essential vocational and life skills, we are fostering their personal growth, enhancing their future opportunities, and contributing to the broader educational mission of Dublin City Schools. This initiative not only directly benefits the students involved but also positively impacts the wider community. Check out the PATHS Products Online Store.

US Air Force Birthday Celebration at NVMM

The National Veterans Memorial and Museum will commemorate the U.S. Air Force Birthday with discounted admission and hands-on learning activities, September 20-22, 10 am – 5 pm. Event highlights include trivia, activity stations including a “Make Your Own Airplane” section. Admission: $5 per person (children under 5 are free). Learn more and purchase tickets.

Dublin Library After School Experience Open House

The Dublin library is your K-12 students' after school space to connect, learn and grow through fun and educational activities. There’s a lot going on! Stop in and find out more at our Open House, Saturday, September 21, 2-4 p.m.

From the City of Dublin

Big Weekend for Fiber

You're invited to the City of Dublin and altafiber’s STEM innovation day this Saturday, Sept. 14, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Coffman Park Pavilion. Witness STEM demonstrations, fiber splicing, Kona Ice, foam cannons, DJs and more. Join us in celebrating the City of Dublin’s recent partnership with altafiber for the Fiber to Every Home project, which will have the first section turned on this week. Fun for all ages.

September Is Suicide Prevention Month

The Dublin Police Department wants to remind residents about their commitment to mental health and well-being for our community members. If you or your student is experiencing a mental health emergency, call 911. The National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available by call or text at 988. View the online Dublin Suicide Prevention Resource Guide for what to do if someone is talking about suicide.

Celebrate the Moon Festival

Festivities await for the Moon Festival & Ohio Kung Fu Tai Chi Day on Saturday, Sept. 14. Enjoy world-class demonstrations, Asian cuisine and games for the whole family, plus a traditional Moon Festival celebration from noon to 9 p.m. in Riverside Crossing Park. Learn more about this free community event.

Dublin City Schools Home

AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

To help students discover their interests and enrich their learning, Dublin City Schools partners with local businesses and community organizations to offer After School Activities outside of school hours. These experiences, which vary in content, time, location, and cost, are taught by course instructors employed by a sponsoring business or organization.

After Schools Activities Home

Going to the St. Patrick’s Day Parade? What To Know Get ready for Dublin's St. Patrick's Day Parade on March 9! Plan where you'll watch by checking out the parade route and accessible parking. The City is also partnering with Central Ohio Safe Ride for discounted Lyft rides to or from the parade and Downtown Dublin. Get the Lyft code and find your spot. Dublin Is an Exceptional Community Because of YOU You’re invited to the State of the City from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, March 14, at The Exchange in Bridge Park. Hear from your City Council, public servants and fellow neighbors about Dublin’s successes and what’s to come this year and in the future. All are welcome to attend. RSVP today! We Need Your Input on the DCRC Refresh Join us for the third and final DCRC Refresh Engagement Session from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 13, at the Dublin Community Recreation Center in Talla 1. A presentation from the designer will begin at 6 p.m. Guests will have an hour after the presentation to walk around, see different design renderings up close and ask questions in an open house-style session. Can't make it? Share your feedback here.

GRE CONTACT INFORMATION

Attendance

If your child will be absent from school, please email our attendance line at gres_attendance@dublinschools.net.

Glacier Ridge Elementary

Email: glacierridge_info@dublinschools.net
Website: https://glacier.dublinschools.net/
Location: 7175 Glacier Ridge Boulevard, Dublin, OH, USA
Phone: 614.733.0012
Twitter: @greDCSD

Glacier Ridge Elementary Home