
Pieter B. Family Newsletter
February 2024
A message from Mr. Jones and Mrs. DeGouff
Dear Pieter B Coeymans Elementary School Families,
February is more than just a month on the calendar; it's a time for us to come together, celebrate diversity, express gratitude, and foster a love for learning. We look forward to embracing these moments with your children and continuing to build a strong and supportive school community.
Our focus on academic achievement remains steadfast. We're diligently working towards our building goals, aiming for all students to perform at or above grade level in both ELA and Math. To achieve this, our dedicated educators have crafted engaging lesson plans, implemented personalized learning approaches, and are providing targeted support to students who may need an extra boost. We believe that with a combination of tailored instruction and a nurturing environment, every student can reach their full potential.
But academic success isn't our sole aim. We're equally dedicated to nurturing a positive school culture. We're actively promoting positive behaviors through our focus on increasing the number of students receiving positive referrals. Recognizing and celebrating students' achievements and positive actions not only reinforces good behavior but also cultivates a supportive and encouraging atmosphere for everyone.
Another crucial aspect is ensuring consistent attendance. We're working diligently to reduce the number of students who are chronically absent from school. Regular attendance is vital for academic progress, and we're here to support families in overcoming any challenges that may hinder students from being present and engaged in their learning journey.
Together, as a united school community of dedicated educators, supportive families, and eager students, we're committed to achieving these goals. Your partnership and involvement play a pivotal role in the success of our students, and we're grateful for your continued support and collaboration.
Thank you for your ongoing partnership and commitment to the success of our students.
Warm regards,
Hakim Jones & Victoria DeGouff
Principal & Assistant Principal
STUDENT DROP OFF AND PICK UP
Just a reminder:
Please avoid having your children arrive at school before 9:00 a.m. Supervision is not provided, nor do our doors open prior to that time with the exception of students going to breakfast at 8:50 a.m.
Students report to their classrooms at 9:00 a.m. If you need to contact a teacher, please go to the office for assistance. Please do not go directly to teacher classrooms at any time.
Pieter B information regarding Outdoor recess
The winter weather has arrived quickly! Just a few reminders:
1. Students go outside for recess when the real feel temperature is 15 degrees and above.
2. We use accu-weather to determine the real feel temperature.
3. If the temperature is close to 15 degrees, please send your students to student with their coat, hat and gloves ( just in case the students are able to go outside)
4. All students should wear a jacket during the winter season (especially on chilly days).
Stay warm,
LOST AND FOUND
We have a lost and found table in the front lobby waiting area.
There are numerous water bottles, lunch boxes, clothing etc...
Please check for any lost items, as we will be cleaning it out later this month.
Health-Related Updates
In an effort to control the spread of illness we ask for your cooperation with the following guidelines.
Do not send your child to school….
If he/she has a temperature of 100 or higher. Please do not send your child to school until he/she is fever-free (under 100) for 24 hours without Tylenol or Ibuprofen.
If he/she has been vomiting or had diarrhea during the night or early morning hours. They should stay home until they have been free of the episodes for 24 hours.
If your child is coughing excessively and/or has a very runny nose. A constant cough is very uncomfortable for your child and it is also disruptive to the class.
If they have a severe rash that has not been seen by a physician. If your child has an open wound, please cover it with a bandage; if it does not appear to be healing, please consult your physician.
If your physician suspects strep throat or other infections do not send your child to school until the results are known. If the result is positive he/she should have at least 24 hours of antibiotics before returning to school.
If you suspect your child has pink eye (conjunctivitis), please take them to your physician. If it is a confirmed case, keep them home until they have been treated for 24 hours.
If your child has Head Lice- unless they have been treated according to the nurse or doctor’s instruction and no longer have live lice or nits (eggs).
🌨️ Weather-Related Updates 🌨️
Winter is here. We would like to remind families about the protocols that have been established for school closings, delays, and early dismissals, as well as the cancellation of extra-curricular activities.
In the event that weather impacts the school day, we use several information vehicles to communicate with parents and community members. All emergency closure information can be found on our website here.
Be Smoke/Tobacco free at Pieter B.
Please remember Pieter B. is a smoke/tobacco free environment
Hakim I. Jones
Email: hjones@rcscsd.org
Website: https://www.rcscsd.org/o/pb-coeymans
Location: Coeymans, New York
Phone: (518) 756-5200 ext. 4001
"I have standards that I don't plan on lowering for anybody...including myself!"
- Zendaya, American actress and singer