North News

Families and Guardians,

We had a great first week! It was wonderful to connect with students once again whether it was in person or remotely. Thank you to everyone for your patience and support as we launch this alternative way to do school.

I have tried to include as much relevant information as possible in this newsletter and I hope you find it helpful. Please contact us if you have questions.

Looking forward to an exceptional year,

Mrs. Patterson

We created a website for students and families to find the information they need in one place. We are continually adding resources and information to help communicate. The website is the place students can access their weekly playbook and integrated arts lessons. Staff are teaching students how to navigate the website, but it will also be helpful for families. I would encourage you to bookmark the site and visit regularly. The website also has the following information:

• Staff contact information (school phone, google voice and email)
• Tech/academic support form for questions - We have staff available throughout the day to help answer questions.
• Resources for families
• Specific school information and announcements

Here is the link:

https://sites.google.com/parchmentschools.org/parchmentnorth/home

You can also find the link on parchmentschools.org - Sites - North Elementary - Quick Link for Remote Learning Website

One of the major reasons we are implementing the Playbook method is to offer flexibility to families. While we encourage you to set up a daily schedule, we understand the many challenges families are facing with hybrid and remote learning. Here is a sample general schedule to help for your planning. We created this schedule based on screen time recommendations. Please note, our remote learners will have more google meet sessions in their schedule. This is only a SAMPLE.

9:00 - 9:10:

Check website (homeroom page) and email for any updated information.

9:10 - 9:15:

Update daily planner (students will practice at school beginning week of 9/21). *Be sure to note any google meets students need to attend.

9:30 - 9:50: Work on ELA Playbook

9:50: Movement Break

10:15 - 10:40: Continue work on ELA Playbook

10:40: Movement Break and snack

11:00 - 11:20: Work on Math Playbook

11:20 - 12:30: Lunch and movement

12:30 - 1:00: Continue work on Math Playbook

1:00 - 1:30: Independent Reading Time

1:30:

1. Check email and google calendar (students will be learning week of 9/21) for any updated information.

2. Fill out planner page for next day

When making your schedule the general guideline is 1 - 2 hours of screen time per day for on-line learning, incorporating a balance of physical play and movement. For example, after 20 - 30 minutes working on-line, students should take a break with physical activity.

Here is a list of common questions. We will keep this updated, so continue checking back.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uVSM3VpiYnbwDIWBImmlgZQlB4IoRmSSjgkzfXTe1gE/edit?usp=sharing

Please encourage to check daily for any communication from staff! Thank you!

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1xEjXjBpyhSKmHtj3lmElXBF4JyD0a5KL

1. Create a schedule/checklist together. A schedule is helpful because your child will know what to expect. Using timers can be very motivating to children and help them make work seem more attainable.
2. We will introduce planner pages to students this week. You can help support this by double checking that they have filled it in each day. Be patient, this will take training and practice!
3. Remind your child to read and reread directions and highlight/underline keywords. Part of this new learning is encouraging students to become more independent learners.
4. Have your student check North website daily for any recent information and/or support documents.
5. Encourage physical movement in between work sessions.
6. If you or your student have questions, whether it's tech or academic related, visit the North website and complete the at home learning support form. We have staff available throughout the day to support our students and families.

Below are resources to support you and your family. I can also help link with counseling services if needed. Please feel to reach out through support form, phone, text or email if you have any needs in this area. My contact information is below and on North's website.

Contact Information:

shyer@parchmentschools.org

School #: 269-488-1457

Google Voice #: 269-290-7258

Request for Support Form

Mental Health Resources and Links

Back to School Transition for Caregivers

50 Ways to Take a Break

Helping Children Cope with Stress

Website: https://sites.google.com/parchmentschools.org/parchmentnorth/home
Location: 5535 Keyes Drive
Phone: (269)488-1400
Twitter: @ParchmentSchool

Email: mpatterson@parchmentschools.org
Website: https://sites.google.com/parchmentschools.org/parchmentnorth/home
Location: 5535 Keyes Drive, Kalamazoo, MI, USA
Phone: 269-488-1400
Twitter: @marcynorthel