Dear Ordway Friends,
As we settle into our third week we are impressed with how well the children have assimilated to the full day of school - its routines plus its rigor. It is clear they are happy, industrious children who love their teachers and our school. Sincere appreciation to both parents and staff for all the thought and purposefulness that has gone into settling the children into this school year.
Since I wrote last week, I already have noticed an increased number of children bringing in their ‘just in case’ sweaters or sweatshirts as they are arriving at lunch with them tied around their waists. Usually they put them on while eating outside and then shed them, tying them back around their waists again as they run around at recess! (Writing your child’s name in their outerwear helps enormously if they are displaced here at school.) As we continue to work on increasing the capacity to eat outdoors, we are predicting needing parent volunteers for added supervision - be sure to see below in this newsletter, ways in which you might be able to help us during our breakfast and lunch blocks. We would welcome your help.
One necessary reminder that surfaced this week is to drop-off in the morning only in the back of Ordway and not in the bus lane in front of the school. We were concerned that a couple of parents’ cars were among the morning buses at arrival, probably without realizing schools routinely keep buses and cars entirely separate for safety reasons. Otherwise, thanks to your vigilance at arrival and dismissal, each procedure is going quickly and very smoothly.
Last, we are looking forward to our Parents’ Night events where you will learn helpful information about the year ahead. Tonight, Monday September 13th Grades 2 and 3 parents and teachers will be on Zoom from 5:45-6:45; and similarly tomorrow night, Tuesday September 14th, Grades K, 1, and 4 will be on from 5:45 to 6:45. In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact me as well.
Best,
Debra
