Additional Dates to remember:
February 7th, 14th, 21st are early release dismissal at 1:15
February 17th No school (Presidents' Day)
February 18th No school for students (Professional Development for staff)
February 28th is a Friday but is a full day of school (Dismissal at 2:50)
February 28th- Emerson students walking to the high school Gym for an all district Science S.T.E.A.M. assembly.
Emerson staff focuses on Social Emotional Learning:
Our Emerson staff focus student learning on academics, but also are teaching social emotional skills throughout every day in many ways. Our social emotional curriculum materials that teach social Emotional learning standards is "Second Steps." During the month of February, all classes are focusing social emotional learning around how to manage frustration and other strong feelings, calm down strategies, handling waiting & self-talk. Every Monday, all students start their week with just a couple minutes of practicing what they have learned with a calming breathing activity. Our first grade classes have recently been receiving extra Social Emotional Learning support with our counselor leading the class activities around bullying prevention.
We have partnered with BHR services for some students to receive counseling services at school. This support from BHR is organized by parents through BHR.
Emerson Professional Staff Development:
Emerson professional development during Friday early releases, as well as other staff meeting times, have been focused on efficient professional learning communities, expanding knowledge of neuroeducation and restorative practices with our students.
Hoquiam PTO:
Hoquiam PTO starts their fundraiser for chocolate mint meltaways on February 12th. Funds from this fundraiser are intended to bring the Pacific Science Center to Emerson. Parents should receive a flyer to fill out if they are interested in supporting this cause by buying chocolates from the PTO. Hoquiam PTO has been a great asset to supplement our school funds with many extra enriching experiences for students. They have purchased additional playground equipment and other fun items for kids! Hoquiam PTO meetings are held at Central Elementary the second Wednesday of each month at 5:30 with dinner provided to all that attend. April's meeting will be the third Wednesday due to spring break.
Hoquiam Administrators learn and support buildings by visiting classrooms:
Hoquiam Admin recently walked through all classes at Emerson and the feedback was affirming for our direction and efforts our staff make for our students.
Whole school celebrations:
Our staff regularly acknowledge our students following the "Big Four." (Be respectful. Be Responsible. Be Kind. Be safe.) Students exhibiting these model behaviors are acknowledged by receiving "WOW Cards." When our building meets a behavior goal of receiving many Wow cards, we have a whole school celebration. Our students recently had a popcorn party and will now be working next on a day they get to take their shoes off in class. This will be a fun day!