Dear Greenwood Families,
Happy Monday! We have a five-day week ahead of us for what seems like the first time in a while, so let’s just get right to it!
“Remain Vigilant”
We are entering Week 8 of our WPS hybrid model, and every indication is that students, parents, and teachers who are part of this model greatly appreciate the four days per week of in-person learning time for our elementary students. Everyone wants to be able to continue to move forward. That being said, I’m sure I’m not the only one taking note of the increasing buzz about rising cases.
The staff at Greenwood has been doing an amazing job following the safety practices and procedures that have been put in place, however, I want to remind our Greenwood community that we can only control what is happening with students while we are together during the school day. It is crucial that everyone does their part both in school and out of school to stay mindful and do the things that will help everyone stay safe. This includes, but is not limited to the following items: hand hygiene, mask-wearing, social distancing, avoiding group gatherings, and avoiding travel to high-risk states. It is also important that you keep your children home if they are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
Fever of 100.0 or higher, and/or chills
Cough (not due to other known cause such as chronic cough, asthma, allergies)
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
New loss of taste or smell
Sore throat
Headache when in combination with other symptoms
Muscle aches or body aches
Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
Fatigue when in combination with other symptoms
Nasal congestion or runny nose when in combination with other symptoms and not due to other known causes such as allergies
Unusual rash when in combination with other symptoms
Here are links to some previously-shared documents with health and safety information:
November COVID FAQ (includes information about testing, travel regulations, and isolation/quarantine)
In closing, I’m going to paraphrase Mrs. Doherty, our Greenwood School Nurse, and remind you all to “wear a mask...wash your hands...keep your distance!” We are all better together...even if “together” means six feet apart. We appreciate all of your support!
Greenwood Playground
This item goes along with the message about everyone needing to remain vigilant and do their part in order to keep us safe, healthy, and able to continue with in-person learning. Governor Baker’s most recent mask order requires the use of face masks in all public places, even when social distancing is possible. While we do have times when students have structured “mask breaks,” students must wear masks if they are on the playground during school. If you choose to visit the playground between cohorts or after school, we are reminding you of the need to wear your mask.
Resources for Social-Emotional Support
At the Greenwood PTO meeting last Tuesday, Jenny Beardslee and Andrea Barone provided the group with a presentation about “Resources for Anxiety and COVID-Related Regression.” For those who may not have met them, Mrs. Beardslee is our Greenwood School Psychologist, and Mrs. Barone is the WPS District SEL/Behavior Coach. They shared a number of helpful strategies and tools that can be used both at school and at home to help children express emotions and problem-solve when things get tough. They are also happy to connect with parents directly if you have questions or are looking for ways to support your child. Their email addresses are linked above.
Virtual Book Fair
Looking for some physical books? You can find them at Greenwood’s Virtual Book Fair! Select some new reading materials and support our school from November 17-30. More information can be found on the PTO website.
Technology Support
Please email the WPS Tech Department at technology@wpsk12.org if your child is in need of technology support while at home.
As always, please do not hesitate to reach out with questions. Thank you for everything you do to support your children and their learning!
Tiffany Back