4J Educator
January 2024, Volume 1
That said, we know we cannot effectively educate students without centering safety and well-being. While it was determined these threats were not credible, we must always respond to such concerning messages fully and promptly. Always. There is no room for preconceived notions when the outcome of these situations could be dire.
To ensure the safety of students and staff, our district follows the Standard Response Protocol developed by the I Love You Guys Foundation. You can learn more about the protocol, the response for each of its five action words, here. The benefit of the protocol is it’s built on clear and simple action words that can provide quick response and flexibility in an evolving situation, as opposed to students and educators having to recall specific steps to take for each individual type of emergency.
Knowing that each individual responds differently, we will continue to provide support and resources to those who need them. Do not hesitate to reach out for our help. Should individual students and families have concerns specific to their student, we would encourage you to reach out to your school’s administrators directly so that they may provide individualized support.
Once again, I thank you for your understanding and partnership.
Respectfully,
Andy
Ground Icy? Walk Like A Penguin for Safety
Our risk management department forwarded this short and cute video that, following the lead of a popular flightless bird, offers 4J employees great advice on how to avoid slips and falls when conditions get icy.
Be sure to:
- Point your feet out slightly and shuffle your feet or take short flat-footed steps
- Go slowly and extend your arms to your sides for balance.
- Need to carry something? Place it in a backpack to keep your arms free
- Wear study footwear with good ankle support and slip-resistant soles
Start 2024 Strong with Expanded Gym Benefit
All 4J employees and their spouses/domestic partners can now take advantage of discounted gym memberships through the district's partnership with Active&Fit Direct.
Active&Fit Direct members pay $28 a month for a standard membership, which gives you access to more than a dozen participating gyms in the Eugene/Springfield area and thousands of guided workout videos without having to sign a long-term contract. BONUS: The enrollment fee ($28) is waived through Feb. 29 using the code STARTSTRONG.
The program also offers discounts of 20–70% at premium gyms in the area, including Orangetheory Fitness, Club Pilates and F45. These gyms cost more than $28 monthly, and the enrollment fee waiver doesn't apply.
To access the benefit, visit this webpage and log in using your 4J email address. The webpage also has information about other 4J wellness initiatives, including yoga, Walker Tracker challenges and wellness webinars. If you need assistance, reach out to your benefits coordinator.
Share Your Thoughts on 4J's Wellness Initiatives
You are encouraged to complete and submit an anonymous online survey to help support the collective care of all 4J employees.
Our district is in the fourth year of its Education Employee Wellness Grant from OEA Choice Trust. Money from this grant has been used to provide at no cost to 4J employees yoga classes, Wellness Webinars on a variety of topics, Walker Tracker challenges, and more!
Wellness needs change over time, and you're encouraged to take a few minutes to let us know what you would find the most impactful for your own physical and emotional health. The more we know, the better we can do for all of 4J's valued staff members. Thank you for your time and insights!
