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Sunday Scoop with the Supe
November 5, 2023
News and Notes from the VPSS Central Office
From the desk of the Superintendent:
Often times I try and prepare a blog that flows from beginning to end and gets out an important message for all that is beneficial for all of our stakeholders to play a part in our system. This week, however, it will look a little different as a whole lot of small bits of information that I want to comment on are on the plate. So here goes:
- Parent-Teacher Conference. Don't just look as this as another day of meeting your child's teacher, but rather use this as an opportunity to get updated on what has happened and find out what you can do to help us in our journey to make your child a successful student. Playing any type of blame game by any party in a teacher conference is counterproductive. Let's use this opportunity for the betterment of our students.
- Fall Sports Season - As the conclusion of the regular season football schedule has come to an end, we now turn our attention and cheer on our teams headed to post season play. I want to remind all, however, that we also have athletes in the sports of cross country and swimming still wrapping up and are headed to championships in the coming weeks. Good luck to all and thanks to all who have made our Friday night lights traditions very successful.
- Veterans' Day - On Friday, many of our schools will be hosting programs that honor our Veterans. Please take the opportunity to attend one of these events and if you know of any veterans please spread the word and get them there so that we can thank them for their service. The many things that we can do in our school system is because of the men and women we honor on this day, so please help us in properly recognizing these heroes.
- Digital Citizenship - You will see a topic in today's newsletter that talks about the importance of teaching our children how to be safe and proper uses of technology. It is an ongoing problem that we need help in educating all on the dangers and issues at the hands of our stakeholders. Please check it out.
- I want to personally thank the over 250 people who sent staff shout outs via the form from last weeks newsletter. The button below will remain until Thanksgiving so don't be afraid to say thanks to someone making a difference.
- Finally, the next ten days before Thanksgiving are crucial for our students to take care of all our their work. As we move into the stop and start of the second nine weeks with the incoming holiday season, we often see students become very relaxed and complacent as they are counting days to a break and getting excited about their Christmas wish list. Please help us to keep them on task and focused so we can have a successful second nine weeks.
Thank you and have a great week.
Your Partner in Education,
Superintendent Tommy Byler
District events for the week of November 6th
- Monday, November 6th
- Parent Teacher Conference Day - No School for Students
- Wednesday, November 8th
- French Immersion - Parent Interest Meeting 6pm
- Friday, November 10th
- Veterans Day Programs at various schools across the district
- First Round - HS Football Playoffs
- LOOKING AHEAD...
- November 20-24 Thanksgiving Break
Digital Citizenship...
In today's digital age, it is crucial for us to educate our children about Digital Citizenship and its significance in schools. Just as we teach them reading, math, and good manners in the physical world, it is equally important to guide them on how to navigate the online world responsibly and safely. Digital Citizenship encompasses a set of values, skills, and knowledge that empower our children to be responsible, respectful, and ethical digital citizens. By instilling these principles in our young learners, we equip them with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly digital and interconnected world while ensuring their safety and well-being. Thank you for partnering with us in keeping our students safe online.
How can I teach my student to be a good digital citizen?
Safety:
Talk with your child about what is safe to share online vs. what should be kept private and who is safe to interact with. Explain what to do if they feel unsafe. Be careful not to judge them – they’re more likely to be honest with you this way.
o Show them how to block and report unsafe people on their social media and video games
o Help them with privacy settings
o Set ground rules and maintain open communication
o Keep/charge tech in common spaces (ex. living room)
o Know what apps they use
Respect:
Just like you teach them to use kind words and to be friendly to people they meet in person, tell them the same rules apply online. Always be kind.
o Model how to respectfully disagree with someone
o How can you help someone who is being disrespected online?
o Explain which people you are comfortable with them talking to online and why
o Teach respectful phrases to use in different situations
For More information, check out this Parent’s Guide to Digital Citizenship.