Wharton Wildcat Newsletter

Welcome back! We are happy to be back and look forward to a year of possibilities for each and every one of us. On Tuesday, we were excited that our students were logged on and ready to learn bright and early at 7:50. Their dedication to learning and excitement to be back brightened our day.

As we move forward, please note the following important dates for January.

January 15: Progress reports (these will be mailed home to families)

January 18: No school in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

As always, if we can be of any assistance to you at any time, please feel free to contact us.

Educationally yours,

Dr. Gesbocker, Principal

Mrs. Leone, Associate Principal

Our after school programming starts the week of January 11th. All clubs will be meeting virtually. We hope that all students enjoy the activities the teachers have planned for these clubs. Clubs will be held on the following days. Please contact the teacher of the club with any questions.

S.M.A.R.T. Literacy: Tuesday and Thursday with Ms. Reyes

S.M.A.R.T. Math: Monday and Wednesday with Ms. Penrod

Drawing Club: Tuesday with Ms. Penrod

Creative Coders Club: Thursday with Mrs. Hundt

While our world is often filled with scary things, I think we can all agree that they last year has been really trying for all of us. With the most recent events taking place at the nation's Capitol earlier this week, you may find yourself talking to your child again about some of these scary things that are happening in the world. These aren't easy conversations but sharing truthful, factual and age-appropriate information with your child, allowing them to express how seeing these things makes them feel and sharing your own feelings is important as they learn to navigate a world that is full of sometimes really scary things. Don't be afraid to use words or ideas that seem too big- break it down for them and be patient as they work to understand things. One thing to remember, kids often know a lot more than we think they do about what is going on around them, so don't be shy away from the discussion. For more resources, check out this article from Loyola Medicine. If you need additional support, please don't hesitate to contact the school social worker.

As we enter the winter months, we thought this chart from the IDPH is a good reference for families. Continue to stay safe, practice social distancing, and continue to wash hands frequently.