Week Ahead

Sandy is the center of attention at our Welcome Wednesday by the Sandwich Police Department. Sandy passed her recent assessment as a Therapy Dog. Way to go Sandy and her handlers _ Mrs. Handrahan and Mrs. Hegg.

Gratitude was on full display at Oak Ridge leading up to Thanksgiving. Kids made a hand turkey gallery with themes of their favorite things from the Bruins to Taylor Swift. Teachers got into the spirit by leaving feathers filled with kind words to other staff members. We even had special visitors on the half day.

Night at the Museum was a special reward game in 4th grade. Mrs. Dunlavey's class, having reached their goal, asked to have Sandy join in the fun as a guard dog trying to get the kids to move or giggle.

A Joyful December: National Stress-Free Holidays Month

Dear Community and Staff,

The holidays are upon us—a time for joy, connection, and creating meaningful memories with loved ones. It’s also a season that can bring its own pressures, like planning visits, managing gift budgets, and organizing events. With everything on your plate, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

While traditions and celebrations are meaningful, it’s just as important to care for your mental well-being. National Stress-Free Family Holidays Month reminds us to be mindful of stress and take steps toward self-care. Here are a few tips to help make your holidays more manageable and joyful:

• Modify traditions if needed. It’s okay to adjust traditions if they feel overwhelming. Your mental health takes priority.
• Learn the power of saying "no." If a commitment feels too much, give yourself permission to decline.
• Plan ahead. Use a calendar to stay organized and avoid last-minute tasks that can create unnecessary stress.
• Share your feelings. Talk to someone you trust if you're feeling anxious or missing a loved one. You are not alone.
• Take time for self-care. Make sure to rest and recharge, even as you care for others.

If you’d like professional support, Care Solace is available to help connect you or your loved ones to mental health services. This is a complimentary, confidential service provided by Sandwich Public Schools.

Access Support:

• Call: 888-515-0595 (Multilingual support 24/7/365)
• Visit: www.caresolace.com/sandwich Search for a provider or click “Book Appointment” for assistance via video chat, phone, or email.

For immediate support:

• Call 911 and request a Crisis Intervention Trained (C.I.T.) response.
• Text “Hello” or “Home” to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
• Call or chat with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988: suicidepreventionlifeline.org
• Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ+ support): www.thetrevorproject.org/get-help

Wishing you a peaceful and stress-free holiday season filled with joy and meaningful moments.

12/3- Gr. 6 Blake Planetarium, 10am Arch/Santoni 11am Branco/Hammond

12/4- Specialists Showcase Night Oak Ridge Multipurpose Room 5-7pm

12/6- Gr. 6 Blake Planetarium, 10am Gould/Leonard 11am Dumas/Stanton

12/10- Report Cards go out!

12/19- Gr. 5&6 SMHS Winter Concert Oak Ridge Multipurpose Room

1/13/25 - Puberty Night 6-7pm