Principal's Message - This first week of e-learning was a new experience for students, parents, and teachers. I have been impressed with the connections, conversations, and completed assignments, which led to a successful first week.
I was invited by a teacher and had the chance to "zoom" into a classroom this week. It was great seeing the students and teacher in their new e-classroom.
During these unprecedented times with students around the world learning from home, the demands on education technology have shifted significantly — almost overnight. With this spike in technology demand came some unfortunate outages this week, and I understand this can be frustrating. Thank you for understanding and know that the district's information systems team is working hard to resolve technology issues. This continues to be a top priority
Thank you for your help and support this week with our elementary students. Just as teaching is different for our teachers, your role changed too. Overall, this first week was a GREAT first step for us to build on. Have a nice weekend.
Best in health,
Mr. G
Technical Support - Parkland has a support ticket system that students can use to let our technology department know of any login or device issues. The direct link to this support ticket system is http://support.parklandsd.org. This will be the fastest and most efficient way for parents and students to receive resolutions to technical issues moving forward.
If you don’t know your child’s ID# and password, please email psdtechhelp@parklandsd.org.
Self-service is also an option! The digital parent portal includes steps for resolving frequently encountered issues, especially with Chromebooks.
Counselor's Corner - Information from Mrs. Gross
Counseling Help - Our school's guidance counselor is also available for any student or family during this pandemic. The emotions and wellness of our students is also very important. Feelings can be complex and scary for our students during this time. If anyone needs to touch base with Mrs. Gross, contact her at grossk@parklandsd.org
Please provide your name, a phone number, child’s name, and grade. Remember to answer the phone, even if you do not recognize the number. If you believe your child is in serious crisis please dial 911 for emergency services.
Nurse's Nook - During this difficult time for all of us, I’d like to remain positive and say, Happy Spring Kernsville! As we are all trying to get used to a new state of normalcy, remember you are not alone! I, along with everyone at Kernsville, am here for you and your children. As we navigate through each new day, it is important to look for the positive and do all we can to keep ourselves healthy.
Though this is something that has been repeatedly stated, please be sure to follow these guidelines:
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds- use hand sanitizer if you are not able to use soap and water
- Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home – follow CDC directives for social distancing – isolate if sick.
- Cough or sneeze into an elbow or use a tissue and place immediately in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
As the school nurse, health promotion is as important as the day-to-day illness, injury, and maintenance care I provide. Though it is extremely important currently for everyone to use social distancing, it remains important to exercise and get outside, when possible. Physical inactivity is among the leading health risk behaviors in young people and adults. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), physical activity is anything that makes you move your body and burn calories. Regular physical activity helps build and maintain healthy bones and muscles. Physical inactivity can lead to children becoming overweight, which will increase their risk for heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Besides…being active is fun! I see this as a win-win situation.
I miss everyone and think of you all daily! Though we can’t be together I am available for you via email. My email address is badelitam@parklandsd.org. I look forward to being together soon.
Wishing you all good health! Enjoy this family time together.
Mrs. Badelita, School Nurse
FAQS DURING Coronavirus Closure
Updates and resources, including guidance counseling and food assistance, can be found on the District's COVID-19 response website at www.parklandsd.org/coronavirus.
Set up a comfortable space in your home for learning. While school closure for COVID-19 is temporary situation, it is likely that it may be extended as needed to keep people safe.
- Choose a non-distracting space in your home to set up a learning space. Some of our students need a quiet area in their room, while others need oversight and frequent assistance.
- Remember that it is not necessary for your child to sit at a table in order to learn. Pillows, a floor space, lying on the couch, or even a yoga ball might provide additional comfort for your child while learning. Students with sensory needs can be supported in this way. Frequent changes in setting can help the students stay focused for longer amounts of time.
- Think about what your child will need in order to learn and plan around those needs. Once you have a space, gather supplies such as notebooks, pencils, calculators, or any type of supportive or assistive devices your child needs, and make sure they are nearby. Be proactive and anticipate how they may look to avoid doing non-preferred tasks.
Tips for Families in Supporting Their Children with Disabilities in a "Virtual World"
First, remember that your role is a parental one. Your child needs family.
- Teachers are still teaching, just in a virtual format, and with a different schedule. It can be confusing for students if families try to assume the role of teacher. If you have been a "home school" family before the COVID-19 outbreak, you will still pose significant challenges as outside meetings will likely become virtual ones or not existent at all.
- Explain to your child that their teacher is still their teacher, and that you are in communication with the teacher to help them learn at home. While you may feel more pressure with your child at home, try to think of it as a different way of helping your child with learning.
Limit distractions. Siblings, gaming devices, tablets, television shows, or other distractions are likely to take your child’s attention away from schoolwork.
- Try to limit distractors to scheduled break times. Set a timer to signal the end of a break.
- Try playing music with 50-80 beats per minute in the background, such as classical music, (if your child does not find it distracting) nature sounds, or video game music (without the visuals, of course). Music has been found to have a positive impact on productivity and concentration. You might find that music helps you focus more and be productive, too!
