The Buzz

We are kicking off 2021 with a BUZZ!! It was so incredible to see our students and staff back in the buildings on Monday. The hallways were full of life and that was music to the soul. Our elementary students will have the opportunity to have music class this semester. Mr. Specht is teaching them how to make music with bucket drums, handbells, egg shakers, boomsticks, and ukeleles.

The high school started a new set of classes. Monday represented a fresh start for all high school students. They have at least 3 brand new classes and the opportunity to earn a full credit between now and June.

Athletics are set to return Saturday, January 16. A majority of the teams plan on being in the gym on that day. The practice and competition schedules will be busy this winter. Stay tuned for updates and information.

When we returned to school after break our Learning Area shifted to “Social Awareness,” which means that we’ve covered two whole Learning Areas this year: Self-Awareness and Self-Management (fantastic job, everyone!).

This week Elementary School students learned about empathy, and practiced putting themselves in other people's shoes; next week they will continue recognizing other people's perspectives and learn about flexibility (a hard trait to master sometimes!).

Middle School students also worked on growing their empathy skills this week by completing Good Human Skills Challenge Activities which align with, "I can demonstrate empathy," and they will continue to do so next week.

With flu season and colder weather right upon us, the number of people that experience illness will increase. This year we also have to deal with COVID-19. We are vigilantly cleaning our buildings and making sure we keep our classrooms and hallways as germ-free as possible. We continue to encourage handwashing and hand sanitizing. Plus, we have amazing students and staff that make sure they keep their masks on to protect others.

Recently, we have seen a rising number of COVID-19 cases across the state We can all do our part by avoiding large gatherings, washing our hands, wearing masks, and maintaining social distancing whenever possible. Additionally, if your child is sick, please keep them home. They can access all of their learning virtually.

We know these are frustrating times, but if we pull together, we will be successful. We appreciate your support!! #ONEHIVE

The district is working to support our families that are struggling with the internet at home. Whether it is spotty service or limited data, sometimes in Concord, we just do not have good access to the internet.

The installation of WiFi antennas on the outside of both the ES/MS and HS buildings has been completed. We now have WIFI PARKING LOTS!!!! Families can access free WiFi 24 - 7 in almost every spot in both parking lots and the ES/MS drive and drop loop. We are beyond excited about the completion of the project. We will continue to look for ways to support our families and this is a big step to making digital more accessible for everyone.

Additionally, the Jackson District Library offers access to WiFi and computers. The WiFi is available outside the library 24-7. Computers and the internet can be accessed anytime during open hours Hours:

Monday and Wednesday 10-6
Tuesday and Friday 1-6
Saturday 10-2

Have you liked the Elementary/Middle School Facebook Page?

If you have not yet, this week is a great time to start. The Elementary and Middle School use the Facebook page to post many updates and announcements. This Friday was the first-ever Facebook live-streamed morning announcements. Don't miss the news - like the page today.

https://www.facebook.com/Concord-ElementaryMiddle-School-593772624020990/

1/18 MLK Day - No School for Students and Staff

2/1 Sophmore Complete Google Enrollment Form for Jackson Area Career Center

2/1-2/5 Juniors Complete Intent to Return Form with Jackson Area Career Center

2/10 Count Day

2/12 - 2/15 President's Weekend - No School for Students and Staff

3/3 Parent-Teacher Conferences

3/8 Professional Development - No School for Students

3/12 End of the 3rd Quarter

3/24 Local Scholarships Due to Mrs. Otto

3/26- 4/2 Spring Break - No School for Students and Staff

Email: rebecca.hutchinson@concordschools.net
Website: www.concordschools.net
Location: 405 South Main Street, Concord, MI, USA
Phone: (517)524-8850