Madison Memo
December 2021
A Message from the Principal
As we turn to December on the calendar we think of snow. We will have outdoor recess every day unless the windchill is below 0. Please make sure to send your child with a jacket along with a hat, mittens, boots, and snow pants. We also know kids misplace items so if you are able to please label these items with their name so if lost we can return them to their owner. In the winter we also get kids that end up with wet pants and socks. Sending an extra pair in their backpack helps when students get wet and recess and need to change.
We are happy to celebrate Madison's Exceed Expectations on our state report card. This is a testament to our work together with home and school that all students will succeed, no exceptions. You can see our school report card on our school website here.
The month of December also brings us some fun events. Make sure to watch your child's Friday Folder for information about a canned food drive, a virtual celebration of learning in music, and some special student activity days.
Make sure to keep reading everyday and stay Madison Proud!
Mrs. Opahle
Upcoming Dates
- Wednesday, December 8th - 4th grade field trip to Farm Discovery Center
- Monday, December 20th - PTO Meeting, 5:30p-6:30p in the Madison library
Monday, December 20th - Dress up day! Red/Green/Winter Day
Tuesday, December 21st - Dress up day! Festive Sweater Day
Wednesday, December 22nd - Dress up day! PJ day
- Thursday, December 23rd - Friday, December 31st - Winter Break
- Monday, January 3rd - 5th grade large group band practice 3:10 - 3:45
- ACCESS Testing December 1st - January 28th for English Language Learner students
The Counselor's Corner - National Stress-Free Family Holiday Month
Although stress-free might not be possible for the whole holiday season, there are some great strategies for reducing common stressors this time of year. One way we can think about it is focusing on what is in our control. We can set realistic expectations and boundaries that reduce our stress as parents to help set our families for an enjoyable holiday season.
Checkout these tips as we head into December.
Sara Schultz
Madison Elementary School Counselor
email: schultzs@mpsd.school
office phone: 920.663.9662
mobile phone: 920.320.1211
The Reading Corner
Winter break means a well-deserved break from homework and daily obligations. But before you know it, the holidays will be over and it will be back to school. To prepare for a smooth re-entry, don't let reading slide completely during winter vacation. Read for pleasure and make it fun. Whether your child is in the mood for holiday stories like The Night Before Christmas or the newest book from his favorite series, winter break provides the perfect opportunity to read for fun. Gather in front of a fire or snuggle on the couch to read some great holiday tales.
Happy Reading!
The Madison Reading Department
PTO Meeting
The PTO has a new meeting time - the 3rd Monday of the month at 5:30 pm in the Madison School library.
Join us either in-person or online!
Google Meet joining info
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/iyj-wyqp-zdo
4K Registration for 2022-2023
Welcome Nurse Kelly Gagnon!
Hello Madison Families,
I grew up in Manitowoc and have lived here my entire life. I attended MPSD for school and graduated from Lincoln High School. I have been a nurse for over 9 years. I’ve worked in a variety of settings, including a medical/surgical floor, GI clinic, and the Public Health Department.
I am married and have two kids currently in the district, a first grader and one in 4K. In my free time I enjoy running, hiking, standup paddle boarding, watching sports and spending time with family.
I look forward to working with students and staff at Madison.
Nursing News - Vision Health in Children
Vision health is very important in children. Each year, vision screenings are performed in the elementary schools. Without early detection and treatment, uncorrected vision disorders can impair child development, interfere with learning, and even lead to permanent vision loss. Your child’s vision is essential for success in school.
👀What are some early signs of vision problems in children?
Frequent, recurrent headaches
Holding object close to eyes
Tilting head to one side or thrusts head forward
Squinting or frowning when looking at distant objects
Blurred or double vision
Eyelids are red-rimmed, crusted or swollen
**Remember, children may still have an eye problem even if he or she does not complain or has not shown any unusual signs.
👀What should I do if I notice these in my child or I received notice from school recommending an eye exam?
Your child should follow up with a complete eye exam by an eye doctor.
👀How can you help prevent vision problems in children?
LIMIT SCREEN TIME!
Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables every day.
Sunglasses or a hat should be worn when outdoors.
Avoid toys with sharp or rigid points, shafts, spikes, rods, and dangerous edges.
Be aware of items in playgrounds and play areas that pose potential eye hazards.
Install cabinet and drawer locks for hazards in kitchens and bathrooms.
Use occupant restraints such as infant and child safety seats, booster seats, safety belts, and shoulder harnesses in cars.
Children aged 12 and younger should never ride in the front seat.
Music NEws
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Madison Elementary School
Website: https://madison.manitowocpublicschools.org/
Location: 701 North 4th Street, Manitowoc, WI, USA
Phone: 920-66-9540
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MPSDmadison