A Note from Principal Keffeler

Hello Meadow Ridge Families,

 

As we move into the winter break, December 24-January 2, I think about how we will spend the days with our families, taking the time to relax and enjoy a slower pace. We still get a newspaper at our house, and this week I read about a great idea in the "Ask Amy" column, found in the Variety section of the Star Tribune. She is passionate about literacy, and concerned about the amount of time our children are plugged into electronics. She wrote, "On (Holiday) morning, make sure that each child in your household wakes up to a wrapped book at the foot of their bed. The gift could be a new book or one of your old favorites."

 

She goes on to say that a very important part of the tradition is then reading to/with or child. It creates a wonderful memory and good feeling about reading. My husband and I always gave our daughter a Christmas themed book when she was younger, and there continues to be a book for her – and all of us – every year. This year, I think she will find one at the foot of her bed instead of under the tree.

 

I also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all who donated gift cards for our giving project. Because of your generosity, many families will have a happier holiday.

 

Enjoy your break, and we will see you in 2019!

 

Best,

 

Karen

Award-Winning Author Visiting in February

Award-winning author, Derrick Barnes, will be visiting Monday, February 4 to kick-off I Love To Read Month. Visit Derrick Barnes' website to read about his many awards. We are fortunate to have this presentation sponsored by the Meadow Ridge PTO. If your child would like to purchase a signed and personalized copy of one of Derrick's books, please return the order form and payment no later than Tuesday, January 8 (late orders will not be accepted). Books will be ordered early so they arrive in time for Derrick to sign them while he is here.

Lost and Found

Families can check lost and found before school by 7:45 or after 2:30. Lost and found can be located in the cafeteria. All items will be donated over break.

When to keep your child home from school
If your child has a fever, is vomiting, or shows signs of other illness, Wayzata Public Schools follows the Hennepin County Infectious Diseases in Childcare settings and Schools Manual to determine if your child is well enough to attend school. The intent of exclusion is to promote a healthy school environment by preventing exposure and spread of illness. Please report all illnesses or health conditions to the school's health office. Please keep your child home for 24 hours after the last episode of vomiting/diarrhea and until your child does not have a fever without using fever reducing medications.

Influenza Symptoms
Our school health offices are asked to report the number (not names) of students and staff who are experiencing Influenza-like Illness to the Minnesota Department of Health. When contacting the school to report that your child is sick, please be specific including if the fever is 100° or greater and if your child has a cough or a sore throat. If you have questions about these guidelines, please call your school health office.

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Ask Ali the tough questions you might be too scared to ask in person. Alison Wobschall, M.A., director of Partners in Prevention, is a psychologist with 14 years of experience in prevention. She has a special passion for healthy brain development. Submit any questions you have regarding topics surrounding substances, mental health, and parenting strategies.

Check out our addition of Discover Racquetball with Life Time! Find more information here. Grades 3-12, beginners welcome!

Register Online

Upcoming Event:
Young Scientist Roundtable - Keeping Bees on Their Six Feet
Wednesday, January 16, 7:00 p.m. at Central Middle School
Event is free.