1. Healthcare

T h e W i l d c at way
Widewater Elementary School
Home of the Wildcats
February 2015
A Wo r d f r o m O u r P r i n c i p a l &
Assistant Principal
It is my pleasure to announce Widewater Elementary Service
Employee of the Year Mrs. Colette Hokana! Mrs. Hokana has
been a Wildcat at Widewater since 2012. She is one of our
wonderful wildcat school nurse. She helps wildcats big and
small with everything from tummy aches to fevers! Widewater
is very fortunate to have Mrs. Hokana working with our students every day to ensure their health needs are meet with all
the confidence and love a parent could ask for (ask me how I
know) !!!!!
With Valentine’s Day love around us, I want to take a minute
to thank the staff at Widewater for the love and dedication
they show our Wildcats every day! As educators we love what
we do and love the fact that you trust us to educate your little
ones each and every day! It is a privilege for me to work with
such loving and dedicated individuals every day! I also want to
thank the world’s best PTO for all the love and hard work
they have dedicated to our school, staff and community! From
Principals’ Appreciation week to everyday professionalism and
great teaching standards, the staff, students, families, and PTO
at Widewater are just a few of the reasons why I love my job
and the staff and students at Widewater Elementary!
I look forward to seeing you at our Snuggle up and Read Night
on Feb 19th 6pm.
Have a Wonderful Wildcat February!!!!!!
Remember: You are important, you can succeed, and We will
not give up on you!
Kristen McKinney-Nash and Joanne Baker
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Ms. McKinney-Nash &
Joanne Baker
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Our Mission & Vision
2
Wildcat PTO Calendar
3
School hours &
Attendance Info
4
Car Rider Information
5
Car Rider Form
6
Bus Information
7
Bus Form
8
Transportation Info
9
Kindergarten News
10
First Grade
11
Second Grade
12
Third Grade
13
Fourth Grade
14
Fifth Grade
15
Reading Department
16
ESOL
17
Art
18
Counseling News
19
Clinic News
20-25
Green Thumb
26-27
Dress Code
28
Heating & Safety Tips
29
Widewater Address
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Our Mission
Our Vision
The mission of Widewater
Widewater Elementary is a welcoming
Elementary School is to
diverse learning community where each
inspire each student to
student is accepted, inspired, and educated
become a life-long learner
in a safe and supportive atmos-
and a self sufficient citizen
phere. Widewater Elementary Staff, stu-
who will succeed and
dents, families, and the community work to-
contribute responsibly in a
gether as an educational team.
global community.
We welcome visitors to our school. We do ask volunteers,
parents, and other visitors to report to the Front Office immediately
upon entering the building. At that time, you will be asked to have a
picture ID scanned, and you will receive a badge to wear during your
visit. This is a practice that was instituted for the protection of our
students. Signs are posted at each door informing visitors of this
practice.
If you wish to schedule a classroom visit, call the principal or the
teacher to make prior arrangements. Please do not drop in for an
impromptu visit or to talk to the teacher “for just a minute.” An
unexpected visitor distracts both the children and the teacher, thus
interrupting the flow of the lesson. We appreciate your efforts in
following these guidelines to help us maintain a safe learning
environment.
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Wildcat PTO Calendar
February 2015
Sunday
Monday
1
Tuesday
2
Wednesday
Thursday
3
4
Friday
Saturday
5
6
7
12
13
14
Candy Grams Sales Feb 2-12
8
9
10
11
6:30 pm
Cavalier
Spirit Night
PTO Meeting
Candy
Grams
Delivered
4-8 pm
CandyGrams
Grams Salesa
2-122-12
Candy
SalesFebFeb
15
16
17
Panera
Spirit Night
Valentines Day
18
19
20
21
25
26
27
28
4-8 pm
No School
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23
24
Panera
Spirit Night
Early
Release
4-8 pm
3
6 pm
Movie Night
School Hours
The students’ school hours are 9:00am to 3:40 pm for grades kindergarten
through fifth.
Please remember:
There is no one available to supervise students before 8:35am.
Tardy or Absent
Please call 658-6380 between 8:00 am and 10:30 am if your child is going to be late or absent. You may also
use voicemail extension 101 if you call before 8:00 am. This courtesy will greatly reduce the number of
calls we must make during the busy morning hours.
Attendance at WES
At Widewater, we believe that a child’s attendance at school greatly impacts his/her achievements in
school. Children who come to school on a regular basis tend to be happy at school, are able to keep up
with their daily assignments, and are successful students. When a child is frequently absent or tardy, he/she
misses out on valuable lessons, activities, and discussions. Your child’s academic success depends on his/her
being in school to benefit from the information and learning experiences that are presented.
Student Sign-Out
If it becomes necessary for you to pick up your child during the school day, please report to the office to sign him/her out in the log book. Your child will be called to meet you in the office. For the safety
of all students, children will not be released to parents at the classroom door. When custody
papers or special situations exist, the office should be informed and a copy of any official documents should
be provided for our files.
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Car Riders
If your child is an everyday car rider, please send a note to the
office, (good for the entire year), stating that he/she will be picked
up on a daily basis. If you have not done so, fill out an everyday car
rider form.
If your child normally rides a bus but is occasionally a car rider,
you will need to send a note on those days. You will not need
to come into the office to sign your child out. You may wait in the
car rider lane at the end of the building until your child is dismissed
to you.
When you forget to send a note, call the school. We can put
your child on the “car rider” list. Or, come early enough to park in
the car rider line, come into the office, sign your child out, and then
go back to your car. Your child will be dismissed with the car riders
at 3:30.
Finally, if you need your child dismissed prior to 3:25 you must
notify the office in advance. There are no office pick ups after
3:25. Parents need to sign him/her out in the office. The office
staff will have your child sent to the office immediately for dismissal,
while you are signing your child out. You will need to park in the
parking lot, NOT the car rider line or bus ramp area.
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Widewater Elementary School
Everyday Car Rider Form
Child’s Name___________________________________________________________
Teacher’s Name ________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian_________________________________________________________
Name of person(s) who will be picking up or allowed to pick up your child from school
on a regular basis through the everyday car rider line:
________________________________________________________Phone________________________
________________________________________________________Phone________________________
Please circle the days of the week when your child will be a permanent car rider:
Mon.
Tues.
Wed.
Thurs
___________________________________________
Fri.
_________________________________________
Parent Signature
Date
Please do not fill out if your child is an everyday Bus Rider….thank you
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Let’s all Ride!
We encourage all parents to have their children ride the bus to
school the very first day (and everyday). This helps our bus drivers
know who is on their route and it also helps the children feel more
independent.
Late Buses
If you have any concerns or questions about a late bus, please call
(540) 373-6095.
Bus Transportation
Because bus transportation is not required, riding a bus to and from school is a privilege.
Insuring student safety is the primary goal of bus rules and regulations, and for that reason students are
expected to behave properly and follow the rules at all times. If students do not follow the rules, bus
privileges may be revoked, and it will be the responsibility of the parent to provide transportation to
and from school.
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STAFFORD COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT
ADDITIONAL BUS ASSIGNMENT
To facilitate changes required for childcare arrangements, please complete this form by providing accurate and
legible information. Students will not be assigned to ride more than two buses, i.e., 1) bus based on home address
2) bus based on childcare provider’s address. All locations must be within the schools attendance area for bus
transportation.
STUDENT INFORMATION
STUDENT’S NAME: ______________________________________________________________
SCHOOL:____________________________________ GRADE:___________________________
HOME ADDRESS: ______________________________TEACHER: ________________________
TELEPHONE: HOME:________________________ OTHER:______________________________
ADDITIONAL BUS ASSIGNMENT INFORMATION
DATE REQUESTED TO BE EFFECTIVE: _____________________________________________
CHILDCARE PROVIDER NAME: ___________________________________________________
ADDRESS: ___________________________________________________________________
TELEPHONE: ___________________________________________
PLEASE CIRCLE WHEN CHILD WILL BE AT THIS LOCATION
DAYS: DAILY MON TUES WED THUR FRI VARIES
TIME: AM & PM AM ONLY PM ONLY
SIGNATURE:____________________________________ DATE: ____________________
RETURN TO: Stafford County Public Schools, Transportation Services,
610 Gayle Street, Wilson Building, Fredericksburg, Virginia 22405
TRANSPORTATION USE ONLY
DATE RECEIVED __________________
DATE ON COMPUTER ______________
SCHOOL USE ONLY
STUDENT ID________________________
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Transportation Services Bus Routes
http://mapweb.staffordschools.net/Public
(click on link)
MapWeb on-line service allows registered students and their families to find their bus stop location, bus number and pick-up and drop-off
times.
This service gives parents/guardians the availability to locate the most up to date and accurate information regarding their student(s)
school bus. Become familiar with the site now to ensure you're tuned in for the 2010-2011 school year.
Insert your street address.
Select all schools for pertinent address or an individual school.
If you are unable to locate your street on our MapWeb service, please contact the Transportation Services Office at 540/373-6095.
Forms For Parents:

Additional Bus assignment Form

School Bus Safety Rules

Passing Stopped School Buses

Post Card Information
Frequently Asked Questions:
If my child’s bus is late how long should he/she wait at the bus stop before contacting the Transportation
Department?
Answer: Students should arrive at the bus stop at least 5-10 minutes before the scheduled arrival. If the bus is more than 20 minutes
late, you should call the Transportation Services Dispatch Office at 540-374-8585.
What if there is an emergency transportation related problem after office hours?
Answer: For after hours emergencies you will need to contact the
Stafford County Sheriff’s Department at 540-658-4400.
My child is a special education student. Who should I speak to concerning his/her transportation?
Answer: The Special Needs Transportation Department does not accept transportation requests over the phone. Transportation requests
and changes must be coordinated through the Special Education Department or the administrative office at your school.
My child left a coat (glasses, instrument, books, etc.) on the bus. How does he get it back?
Answer: Drivers check their buses after every run. If an item is found, it is usually returned to the school at the earliest convenient time
or to the student the next morning. Contact Dispatch at (540) 374-8584,
374-8585 to check for turned in lost and found.
How do I find my child’s bus information?
Answer: Mapweb on-line give parents/guardians the availability to locate the most up to date bus route
http://mapweb.staffordschools.net/Public
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information.
Kindergarten Curriculum for January 2015
Language Arts – The students will learn letters/sounds (K7), sight words (K6), follow text with a finger, pointing
to each word as it is read from left to right and top to bottom (K5). The students will write to communicate
ideas (K11, K12,K13). They will listen to a variety of literary forms and respond in complete sentences
(K1,K2,K3). They will make inferences.
Math – The students will add and subtract 10 objects (K6). They will recognize the length of an object and
measure with non-standard ounits (K10). They will identify and describe instruments used to measure length
(ruler), weight (scale), time (clock: digital and analog; calendar: day, month, and season), and temperature
(thermometer) (K8).
Social Studies – The students will learn about Betsy Ross and Martin Luther King, Jr. (K1)
Science – The Students will learn about the changes and life cycles during Winter (K9 & K10). They will learn
about the properties of water (solid, liquid, gas) (K5a), and Matter (texture, size, weight, position, color,
hardness, speed) (K4).
Kindergarten Curriculum for February 2015
Language Arts – The students will learn letters/sounds (K7), sight words (K6), follow text with a finger, pointing
to each word as it is read from left to right and top to bottom (K5). The students will write to communicate
ideas (K11, K12,K13). They will listen to a variety of literary forms and respond in complete sentences
(K1,K2,K3). They will make inferences/predictions, determine what is important in the text, and compare/
contrast.
Math – The students will learn about geometric figures (shapes – circle, square, triangle, rectangle). They will
compare the size and shape of the figures, they will sort the shapes, and they will understand that they have
different orientations in space (no matter which way the shape is turned it is still that same shape). (K11ab,
K12)
Social Studies – The students will learn about President’s Day, George Washington, and Abraham Lincoln (K1)
Science – The students will investigate and understand that shadows occur when light is blocked by an object.
(K8). The students will investigate and understand that magnets have an effect on some materials, make some
things move without touching them, and have useful applications. (K3)
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February is a super busy month! To start, our first graders will learn about
the contributions of our great presidents, George Washington and Abraham
Lincoln. We will also review seasonal changes and discuss what people and
animals do to survive in the winter months. We will also begin a unit on
measurement in math and have fun measuring objects around us using
nonstandard units. Towards the end of the month we will begin a new, fun
unit in science on force, motion and energy. We will learn about how
objects move and vibrate! And lastly, our first graders will enjoy activities
this month based around Valentine's Day and the 100th Day of school!
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With mid-year testing wrapping-up, we are half way through the school year with a lot of learning left to do!
This month’s comprehension focus in Language Arts will be to summarize information, understand the
author’s purpose and we will revisit making inferences and predictions. The phonics focus will be on variant
vowels, consonant syllable patterns and contractions. We will be reviewing diagraphs and suffixes for word
analysis; and in grammar, singular and, plural adjectives.
In Math we will finish collecting, analyzing, and correctly recording data on a graph. Then we will read, write
and identify place value through three digit numerals, round two digit numbers to the nearest ten, and finally
estimate the sum of two whole numbers.
Everyone is excited to go on our “tasting” field trip the first week of February, then we will focus on a few
of our famous Americans, whose contributions have improved the lives of other Americans.
In mid-February we will go back to Science and learn all about the weather.
Please continue to have your child read daily, practice weekly spelling words and basic math facts to include
money and time.
Our second grade team is dedicated to your child’s education and appreciates your support!
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The third grade team hopes that you enjoyed your holiday and are ready for our second
semester. As you know we have been working very hard on memorizing Facts Families, as well
as, multiplication facts. Students should continue to read each night. The more you read, the
better reader you become. We have all seen this in our classrooms. In case of bad weather,
you can always have your child go to our websites and review reading and math skills. We will
be moving into division this nine weeks. Have a great third semester!
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Here is a look at what we will be studying this month as well as how you
can help your child at home.
Reading: In reading we are learning about cause and effect relationships. Your child should
be reading at home for at least 20 minutes each night. Reading with them and asking
questions about what they read is beneficial for improving reading comprehension and
fluency.
Math: In math we are beginning our units on graphing and probability. Please continue to
help your child practice their multiplication facts at home. Having facts memorized will help
your child in more complicated concepts such as fractions, multiplication, and division.
Social Studies: The unit we are learning about in Social Studies is the Revolutionary War.
Ask your child if they can summarize the causes of the war and tell you about important
Virginians during this time period. Rereading the textbook at home is a great way to review
what we have learned in class.
Science: Force, motion, energy, and electricity are our current topics in science. The
students will engage in experiments to test friction, gravity, and other forces.
Supplies and donations: We are half way through the school year, and many students are
low on supplies. Please ask your child if they need to replenish any supplies (glue, pencils,
etc). We are also running low on computer paper for our printers. Any donations would be
greatly appreciated!
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An Intercepted Valentine
by Carolyn Wells
Little Bo-Peep, will you be mine?
I want you for my Valentine.
You are my choice of all the girls,
With your blushing cheeks and your fluttering curls,
With your ribbons gay and your kirtle neat,
None other is so fair and sweet.
Little Bo-Peep, let's run away,
And marry each other on Midsummer Day;
And ever to you I'll be fond and true,
Your faithful Valentine,
LITTLE BOY BLUE.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Feb 3rd ~ Report Cards
Feb 13th ~ Classroom Celebration
Feb 16th ~ No School
Feb 19th ~ Snuggle Up and Read 6-7
Feb 20th ~ Rock/Mineral Mobile at Widewater
HELPFUL WEBSITES
First in Math
JLAB
www.funbrain.com
SOL pass.org
http://www.doe.virginia.gov/testing/sol/released_tests/index.shtml
Math playground
These extra resources all offer excellent practice for the SOL Tests!
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In celebration of Black History Month
Join us for our annual
Snuggle Up and Read
When:
Thursday, February 19, 2015
6:00 - 7:00 (doors open at 5:30)
Where: Classrooms throughout our school, but the fun will start in the cafeteria!
Who:
Staff members will be reading books written by African American authors and books featuring African American characters.
How:
Participants will sign up to attend two sessions. The sign-ups will take
place that evening in the cafeteria, so be sure to get here early!
Wear your jammies, and bring a favorite blanket or stuffed animal!
Widewater Elementary’s amazing PTO will provide hot chocolate and goodies!
To help us plan, please go to Widewater’s School Fusion page to let us know you’re coming!
www.stafford.widewater.schoolfusion.us
Questions:? email Mrs. Douglas [email protected] or
Mrs. Hall [email protected]
We hope to see you there!
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Our ESOL students continue to work hard this winter, learning vocabulary and expanding
their English! Our department is working closely with the classroom teachers here at Widewater, implementing cooperative learning strategies so our ELLs are learning the best way
they can and are having fun with English! We’re really looking forward to our upcoming school
-wide Multicultural Day which will be in March! Our classrooms will represent countries from
all around the world! There will be so many activities; from watching step dancers and eating
papusas, to listening to bagpipe music.
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Art News
Kindergarteners are drawing their self-portraits. They are focusing on the
correct placement of facial features & focusing on their five senses. First graders have
read the book Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats. They are creating their own snowy day
collage with felt figures displaying movement & perspective. Second graders are
learning about the artist Grandma Moses. They are developing winter landscapes.
Third graders are finishing up their snowmen inspired by the book Snowmen at Night.
They have learned how to use shading techniques. Fourth graders are learning about
shading as well. They will create Out of this World 3-D plants made out of forms. Fifth
graders will be starting on optical illusion room incorporating a figure within their
drawing.
Mrs. Snyder - art
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T h e W i l d c at way
W ildcat Co unse ling
Word of the Month:
Courage
Congratulations to the following Wildcat Students of the Month
for January 2015
Teacher
Teacher
Student
Kindergarten
Student
Third
Hebert
Anyely Ramirez
Budd
Myles Damoah
Kidwell
Natalie Reyes
Giffin
Christina Keresztesi
Cox
Cloey Melvin
Mason
Cody Tyler
Thaxton
Genesis Alvarez
Swanson
Brandy Sacra
Owens
Wilson Pense
Snyder
Susan Osorio-Bautista
McConnell
Casey Samman
Clement
Heaven Kenner
First
Farrell
Erin Chapman
Reynolds
Olivia Devisme
Walsh
Miguel Fuentes
McKinney-Odasso
Trentin Johnson
Lerner
Jerome Carpenter
Hardy
Isabel Annor
Schilke
Vivian Metzger
Second
Schwartz
Zachary Williams
Cates
Jacob Sinclair
Woolfolk
Fourth
Cremmins
Nicole Howard
McMillan
Ben Dale II
Telford
Nathan Javins
Eppley
Antonio Tucker
Boston
Elizabeth Sivia
Merzlak
Joshua DeLaRosa
Fifth
Carpenter
Dylan Hill
Trenton Johnson
Nunnally
Thomas Tavara-Valiente
West K
Noah Edwards
Jones-Fogarthy
Zara Nti-Brew
West, E
Joseph Davila
Seibert
Kerry Munoz
Gruschow
Demyan Chappell
Friedrichs
Britton Elsey
Typhair
Taelor Augustine
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Clinic News February 2014
There is a lot of information this month. It is still Flu Season and we are still seeing some student with flu
symptoms. Please encourage your child to cover his/her cough and to wash their hands frequently.
Common signs and symptoms of the flu include:







Fever over 100 F (38 C)
Aching muscles, especially in your back, arms and legs
Chills and sweats
Headache
Dry cough
Fatigue and weakness
Nasal congestion
These symptoms will begin suddenly. A cold will usually begin in a slow progression of symptoms.
People with the virus are likely contagious from the day before symptoms first appear until five to 10 days
after symptoms begin. Children and people with weakened immune systems may be contagious for a
slightly longer time.
If you're young and healthy, seasonal influenza usually isn't serious. Although you may feel miserable while
you have it, the flu usually goes away with no lasting effects. But high-risk children and adults may develop
complications such as:





Pneumonia
Bronchitis
Asthma flare-ups
Sinus infections
Ear infections
Pneumonia is the most serious complication. For older adults and people with a chronic illness, pneumonia
can be deadly.
Usually, you'll need nothing more than bed rest and plenty of fluids to treat the flu. But in some cases, your
doctor may prescribe an antiviral medication, such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza). If taken
soon after you notice symptoms, these drugs may shorten your illness by a day or so and help prevent
serious complications.
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~ Clinic News Continued ~
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now recommends annual flu vaccination for all
Americans over the age of 6 months.
Each year's seasonal flu vaccine contains protection from the three or four influenza viruses that are
expected to be the most common during that year's flu season. The vaccine is typically available as an
injection or as a nasal spray.
The influenza vaccine isn't 100 percent effective, so it's also important to take measures to reduce the
spread of infection:



Wash your hands. Thorough and frequent hand-washing is an effective way to prevent many common
infections. Or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers if soap and water aren't readily available.
Contain your coughs and sneezes. Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough. To
avoid contaminating your hands, cough or sneeze into a tissue or into the inner crook of your elbow.
Avoid crowds. Flu spreads easily wherever people congregate — in child care centers, schools, office
buildings, auditoriums and public transportation. By avoiding crowds during peak flu season, you reduce
your chances of infection. And, if you're sick, stay home so that you don't infect others.
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/flu/basics/definition/con-20035101
February is National Dental Health Awareness Month
Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic infectious diseases among U.S. children. This preventable
health problem begins early: 28 percent of children aged 2–5 years have already had decay in their
primary (baby) teeth. By the age of 11, approximately half of children have experienced decay, and by the
age of 19, tooth decay in the permanent teeth affects two-thirds (68 percent) of adolescents. Low-income
children have two times as many untreated tooth decay issues as children in families with higher incomes.
This may result in pain, dysfunction, underweight, and poor appearance—problems that can greatly
reduce a child's capacity to succeed in the educational environment. The above information was provided
by the Center for Disease Control web page http://www.cdc.gov/OralHealth/topics/child.htm .
If you
are in need of information regarding low income health insurance and dental coverage please call me at
the school clinic at 540-658-6380.
The Smiles Dental Program will be visiting Widewater Elementary on April 2 nd, 2014. Please return
your registration forms only to the clinic as soon as possible. These forms must be submitted to the
Smiles program by March 1st.
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Dental Coverage Fact Sheet for Exchange Enrollment
Dental diseases are associated with many health conditions including diabetes, premature birth
and heart disease. Dental disease is also the most common chronic childhood disease - more common than asthma. Dental insurance can cover the cost of preventive oral health services and help
with the cost of other services.
Pediatric dental coverage is considered one of the ten essential health benefits to be included in a
Qualified Health Plan. In Virginia, dental benefits will be offered two different ways in the Exchange: as an embedded benefit; or, as a stand-alone plan (separate from health insurance). Some
qualified health plans will include a children’s dental benefit and also have an option to add coverage for an adult.
The questions below will help assisters/navigators as they work with consumers to identify the
most appropriate dental plan for themselves or for their family.
1. Do you have a child/children age 0-19 who will receive coverage through the marketplace?
If so, your child/children are entitled to medical and dental benefits.
2. Are you looking for a health plan that includes a dental benefit for your child, yourself or your
family? In Virginia’s Exchange, dental plans for children and adults will be offered two ways:
-alone dental insurer
Each plan will be different – review the benefits each plan is offering and understand the deductible that you will have to pay before your coverage begins.
3. Have you considered what dental care or procedures your children may need? In some cases,
preventive services, like exams, cleanings, fluoride varnish and sealants, are free; in other cases,
the deductible must be met first. Other services, like fillings, root canals, crowns and extractions,
have different out-of-pocket costs depending on the plan you choose and your income. However,
each plan’s cost-sharing is different, and it is important to
understand how a plan’s deductible
will affect your out-of-pocket costs.
4. Pediatric dental plans may have different costs and benefits. Given your children’s needs and
your budget, what matters most to your family? Differences may include:
-sharing (how much you are expected to pay for certain services)
-of-pocket before certain services are covered)
-of-pocket maximums (the most you may need to pay out-of-pocket each year)
Subsidies and deductibles are handled differently with embedded plans and stand-alone dental
plans – this will affect out-of-pocket costs. Be sure to know what you have to pay out-of-pocket before coverage begins for both types of benefits.
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5. Do you know how to use your children’s dental benefits once you have them? For example, do you
know how to find a dentist who takes your insurance, what dental services are covered in your plan, and
what you can expect to pay out-of pocket?
6. Do you have a specific dentist you would like to see? Some dentists may not participate in the Exchange
products, so be sure to check if your dentist is included in your plan’s network.
For more information, contact the Virginia Oral Health Coalition 804.269.8720 or [email protected].
4200 Innslake Drive, Suite 103, Glen Allen, VA 23060 | 804.269.8720 | www.vaoralhealth.org
SCOLIOSIS FACTS FOR PARENTS
In accordance with Virginia State law, parents of students in grades five through ten will receive this
yearly information sheet containing important facts about Scoliosis and Scoliosis screening.
Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature or turning of the spine. It affects 2-3% of the population or an estimated 600,000 people in the United States. If left untreated, scoliosis can progress to a serious problem,
causing back pain and degenerative arthritis of the spine. It may lead to disk disease or sciatica. It can also
threaten the psychological well-being of a young adult when there is an obvious deformity.
Although scoliosis may result from an injury, a birth defect, or a crippling disease, 90% of cases are
from unknown causes. It may run in families and affects girls seven times more often than boys. It most
frequently develops during the growth spurt between ages 10 and 15, but can also develop or progress later
in life. Early detection and intervention may prevent further structural deformity and resulting secondary
problems.
Scoliosis screening is an observation of the student’s spine while standing as well as performing a
forward bend. A scoliometer, a device for measuring the amount of abnormal curvature in the spine, may
also be used during screening. Treatment of scoliosis varies between no treatments needed, bracing of the
spine, to spinal fusion surgery.
Since the development of scoliosis is gradual and usually painless, scoliosis may
develop, without the parent or child being aware. It is important for parents to monitor their child’s development during these growing years and to have students checked by the family physician routinely. The
signs of scoliosis may include uneven shoulders, a shoulder blade that appears more prominent than the
other, uneven waistline creases, one hip higher than the other, and/or a leaning to one side.
If you have concerns about your child’s spinal health, contact your family health care provider or
school nurse for follow up. If you do not have a primary care physician, with your written permission, the
school nurse can provide an initial screening. Should further evaluation be necessary she can direct you to
other health care resources.
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Just a reminder, in order for your student to receive any medication here in the clinic whether it is a prescription or an over the counter medication (Tylenol, aspirin, or Tums
etc.) there has to be a Medication Request form on file that has been signed for this school
year. The form must be completed by your doctor and have a parent’s signature for me to be
able to administer the medication to your student. This is county policy and is found in the
Student Code of Conduct book that was sent home at the beginning of the school year. The
carrying of medications by students will be punishable in accordance with the student’s code
of conduct book.
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STAFFORD COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
SUBJECT:
New Substitute Nurses
Theresa P. Aberg, Human Resources Supervisor
Lori Rogan, RN, BSN, School Nurse Manager
School Year 2014-15
Substitute Nurse Orientation Workshops 2014 – 2015
If you wish to become a school nurse substitute, you will need to complete an online substitute application at
http://stafford.schoolfusion.us/. You must supply references, college transcripts, complete fingerprinting and
TB testing to Human Resources, all of which can be found with the online application. When all paperwork
is complete, you may contact the School Nurse Manager to schedule an Orientation Workshop.
All nurse substitutes are required to attend an Orientation Workshop done by the School Nurse Manager
prior to placement on the Substitute Nurse Listing. This is an annual requirement for compliance with SCPS
policy, OSHA, and VA Code.
Please e-mail Lori Rogan at [email protected] with your choice of the workshop date below and
you will receive a confirmation with more details and directions. You will need to bring copies of your current resume, nursing license and CPR card to the Orientation Workshop.
ORIENTATIONS ARE HELD AT MELCHERS COMPLEX
Melcher’s Complex/Tyler Building/Alternative Education Office
610 Gayle Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22405
Phone: 540-899-6000 Fax: 540-899-6046
E-mail: [email protected]
Orientation tentative schedule:
September 18, 2014 9 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
October 16, 2014
9 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
November 20, 2014 9 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
January 16, 2015
9 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
February 19, 2015
9 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
March 19, 2015
9 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
We look forward to working with you.
Enclosures
Cc: Tammy Norman, HR Administrative Assistant
December 2014
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TerraCycle’s Drink Pouch Brigade
You may have noticed two large recycling boxes in our cafeteria. The Green Thumb Club is
collecting drink pouches to be recycled by TerraCycle. TerraCycle upcycles or recycles drink
pouches and other items that would have otherwise ended up in a landfill. All drink pouches are
accepted (drink boxes are NOT accepted). The best part…for every drink pouch we collect, the
Green Thumb Club will receive 1-2 cents! It all adds up! In our first 2 weeks of participation, we
collected $16 of drink pouches! Not too bad for something that might have ended up in a landfill.
TREX Plastic Bag Challenge
In an effort to recycle items not accepted by our county recycling program, Widewater Elementary
School is participating in the Plastic Bag Challenge. Continue dropping off plastic bags in the
cardboard bins in our school. We will be collecting until April 22- Earth Day!
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TREX Plastic Bag Recycling Challenge
Wildcat families- start saving your plastic bags! We will be participating in a special recycling program from Trex. Trex is a company that recycles plastic bags to make outdoor decking materials
which can then be made into decks, furniture, and more! We will be competing with several
other schools in our district. The winning school will receive a special bench made out of plastic
bags!
The collection boxes have arrived and have been placed in various locations around our school.
We can accept any of the following:
grocery bags, bread bags, case overwrap (ex: packaging over a 24 pack of water), dry cleaning bags,
newspaper bags, ice bags, wood pellet bags, ziploc bags, produce bags, bubble wrap, salt bags, and
cereal bags. All bags must be clean, dry, and free of food residue.
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Students in all grades will be prohibited from wearing:
a) Clothing and accessories that promote alcohol, tobacco, or drug usage or which display weapons or violence and which
cause or are likely to cause a disruption within the school environment.
b) Clothing and accessories that contain vulgar, derogatory or suggestive diagrams, pictures, slogans or words that may be
interpreted as racially, religiously, ethnically, or sexually offensive and which cause or are likely to cause a disruption within the
school environment.
c) Clothing symbolic of gangs or disruptive groups associated with threatening behavior, harassment or discrimination and
which cause or are likely to cause a disruption within the school environment.
d) Clothing, accessories and/or any words, pictures, diagrams, etc., thereon which are lewd, vulgar, indecent, plainly offensive,
or which cause or are likely to cause a material disruption.
e) Head coverings of any kind in the building (except for religious or medical reasons). Bandanas may not be worn anywhere
on one's person.
f) Curlers, picks, combs, or hair rakes in the hair.
g) Sunglasses or permanently tinted glasses.
h) Dog collars, chains, wallet chains, safety pins, spike jewelry or fishhooks worn as jewelry, accessories or ornamentation.
i) Tank tops, tube tops, mesh tops, sheer tops, sleeveless tops, halters, or bare midriff tops. Shirts cannot have necklines that
are lower than the straight line from top of underarm across to opposite underarm. Shirts must cover shoulders, must have
sleeves, and must extend past the top of the pants. Display of cleavage is not permitted. Tops may not expose the midriff, and
clothing must cover undergarments at all times. Note that at the elementary level, sleeveless tops and dresses are permitted
providing they do not violate any other part of the dress code.
j) Gloves in the building.
k) Pajamas, loungewear, and dorm pants.
l) Leggings or tight fitting spandex type pants, pants with side slits or holes above the knees, see-through pants, tights, or
leotards worn as outer garments.
m) Sagging pants, pants worn low on the hip so as to reveal underwear or skin. Pants must be worn with both legs down (not
one leg rolled up), and pants legs may not extend past the sole of the shoe. Clothing must cover undergarments at all times.
n) Dresses, skirts, shorts, culottes, and skorts that are shorter than the extended tip of the longest finger with arms hanging
naturally at the sides.
o) Bedroom slippers, roller sneakers, or heels higher than 3 inches. Shoes must be worn at all times. Athletic shoes or closed
shoes with a rubber sole should be worn for Physical Education and recess. At the elementary level, high heels, loose fitting
sandals and flip flops are discouraged for safety reasons.
p) Fringed garments in CTE areas or in Drama and Art areas which contain machinery.
q) Items of clothing that would impair the health and safety of the student during normal school activities.
Stafford County School Board Regulation 7-37
Revised by Division Superintendent
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March 22, 2005
Stafford County Fire and Rescue
Department
Heating Safety Tips
spected and cleaned by a professional every year before
cold weather sets in. When using a fireplace, open the
flue for adequate ventilation. Never use your oven to
Keep anything that can burn at least three-feet away
heat your home.
from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood
Install wood burning stoves following manufacturer’s instove, or portable space heater.
structions or have a professional do the installation. All
Have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside
space heaters.
to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
Be warm and safe this winter!
Never use your oven to heat your home.
Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s
instructions.
Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the
room or going to bed.
Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.
Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop
sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool
before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
Carbon Monoxide is
Invisible, colorless and
odorless. Often called
“The Silent Killer”
CO alarms should be installed in a central location outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home
and other locations where required by applicable laws,
codes or standards. For the best protection, interconnect all CO alarms throughout the home. With this application when one alarm sounds they all will sound.
Carbon Monoxide Facts
A person can be poisoned by a small amount of CO over a
longer period of time or by a large amount of CO over a
shorter amount of time.
TEST SMOKE
ALARMS MONTHLY
In 2005, U.S. fire departments responded to
an estimated 61,100 nonfire CO incidents in which carbon
monoxide was found, or an average of seven calls per hour.
It’s a Sound You Can Live With!
Heating Equipment Safety
Have fuel-burning heating equipment and chimneys in-
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Widewater Elementary School
A Stafford County Public School
101 Den Rich Road, Stafford, VA 22554 | Phone: 540-658-6380 | Fax: 540-658-6378
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