Morris Elementary School

I would like to take a moment to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of our teachers. Their insightful comments on the report cards reflect not only their commitment to academic excellence but also their deep understanding of each student's strengths and areas for growth. We encourage you to take the time to read and discuss these comments with your child, as they provide valuable insights into their educational journey.

I also want to address a concern regarding the use of Smart Watches during the school day. It has come to my attention that some students have been using their Smart Watches for texting or other distractions during class time. To ensure a focused and productive learning environment, we kindly ask that students refrain from using their Smart Watches during school hours. If a student is found using their watch, they will be asked to store it in their backpack or in the office. We appreciate your cooperation in this matter and believe it will contribute to a more positive and focused learning environment for all students. On page 34 for the Morris Handbook is our policy regarding cell phones and smart watches. Please take a moment to review this policy.

Smartwatches/Cell Phones

While we live in a world where cell phones and smartwatches are very common, we ask that students not bring cell phones or wear smartwatches to elementary school. If a student is observed using a cell phone during the school day, they will be asked to turn it off and put it away. If the student is observed a second time using a cell phone or if the student refuses to comply with adult directions regarding cell phone use, the device will be confiscated and may be picked up in person by the student’s parent or guardian.

Attendance

I want to take a moment to address the importance of regular attendance and the potential impact it can have on your child's education. As we progress through the school year, it's crucial to recognize the significance of consistent attendance and how it directly correlates with academic success.

When a student misses more than 10 days of school, it can significantly affect their learning and overall well-being. Here are some key points to consider regarding the impact of excessive absenteeism:

• Academic Achievement: Regular attendance is essential for students to fully engage in classroom learning and grasp new concepts. Missing school days can lead to gaps in understanding, making it challenging for students to keep up with their peers academically.
• Social and Emotional Development: School provides valuable opportunities for social interaction and the development of interpersonal skills. Excessive absences can result in feelings of isolation and detachment from classmates, impacting a child's social and emotional growth.
• Establishing Routine: Consistent attendance helps children establish a routine and sense of structure, which are essential for their overall development and future success. Missing school disrupts this routine and can make it difficult for students to stay organized and motivated.
• Building Relationships: Strong relationships with teachers and peers are crucial for a positive school experience. When students are frequently absent, they miss out on valuable interactions and opportunities to connect with their classmates and educators.

Additionally, I would like to remind you that our Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) meeting is scheduled for Tuesday evening at 6:30 p.m. We will be discussing and planning for exciting spring events that will benefit our school community. Your involvement and support are highly valued, so we encourage you to attend and contribute your ideas.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership in your child's education. Together, we can ensure a successful and enriching academic experience for all our students.

As we approach the upcoming state testing period, I want to remind you of the significance of regular attendance during this critical time. The state testing schedule plays a pivotal role in assessing our students' academic progress and providing valuable insights into their learning achievements.

This week at Morris we had some Local red skin potatoes from Jekanowski Farm in Hadley Ma. We used these to make from home fries at breakfast to serve with our ham egg and cheese breakfast sandwiches.

Our salad bar was all set up to make a harvest salad with carrot sticks from Kitchen Garden Farm in Sunderland Ma, local greenhouse grown Baby Green leaf and Baby spring Mix from Little leaf farms in Danvers, MA, fresh broccoli and something new to our students, some roasted Butternut squash from Plainville Farms in Hadley. We also had this beautiful pickled vegetable salad using the local carrots and some purple daikon radish also from Kitchen Garden Farms.

We have some new apple varieties for students to try from Klein's Kill Fruit Farm in Germantown, New York. This week will be an assortment of Crimson Crisp and Snapdragon.

Next week you will see some homemade fruit and yogurt parfaits made using Organic Vanilla yogurt from Sidehill Farms in Hawley, Ma. This yogurt is made with milk from grassfed cows that are raised right here in Massachusetts.

• March 12th - PTO Meeting (6:30 p.m.)

• March 12th -Basic Rights: Evaluation and Eligibility Meeting (6:00 - 8:00 p.m.)

• April 1st - Science Fair Packet went home before the break-

• May 1st - Special Olympics

• May 3rd - Talent Show

• May 23- Spring Art Show and Choral Concert (5:30 p.m.)

• June 4 - Spring Band Concert (6:30 p.m.)
  

• June 6th Rain Date June 7th - Field Day

• June 13th - Fourth Grade State Fair (1:45 p.m.)

• Fifth Grade Move Up Ceremony 1:30 p.m. June 14th (If for some chance we have a snow day or two this date will move up.)