While this first week of Virtual Learning presented a few minor challenges, overall the feedback we have received has been very positive. This is in large part due to our wonderful staff who have committed themselves to making this the best experience possible for our students. We also owe a debt of gratitude to our parents/guardians for your patience and support at home. You are with us on the front lines of this adventure. We plan to share with you this weekly newsletter every Friday, highlighting news items and shining the spotlight on our outstanding students. Enjoy a wonderful weekend!
Social Emotional Learning
Hi! My name is Sarah Croushler. While this is my third year at Swansfield, it certainly looks different with Virtual Learning and all our new Swans! I am Lead Teacher, Social Emotional Learning, and my hope is to help students develop skills to be amazing humans. Our work will focus on relationship skills, self-awareness, problem solving skills, empathy, and so much more. I’ll also be helping your child’s teacher, and other staff, develop strategies and lessons to teach these important skills throughout the school day. I have been with HCPSS for 13 years and the last 2 have been in this role. I am a licensed counselor and love helping young people learn skills that will allow them to be successful in the world. Feel free to reach out with questions or thoughts. Keep an eye out in this newsletter for ideas you can use at home to build these skills as well.
Join Us For Tuesday Tech Tips
SES staff presents Tuesday Tech Tips beginning next Tuesday, September 15, at 7pm. We will share information to assist with virtual learning. Topics for the next three weeks include getting the most out of Google Meet, Canvas, Lexia Core and Dreambox. Each week, after a brief presentation, we will answer your questions. Please see the attached flier for more information.
Tuesday Tech Tips.pdf
Technology teacher Taffie Barnes also will share timely tips in this newsletter during the year to help families/students work efficiently with their devices. Today, please see the attached for directions on how to open two windows side by side.
Technology Tip #1.docx
Important Service Available To Families With Young Children
The Howard County Early Childhood Advisory Council has partnered with The Basics in an effort to introduce Howard County families to evidence-based strategies that capitalize on every child’s first 3 years to help them reach their full potential. Please see the parent toolkit to learn more. Families can also sign up for the Basic Insights text messaging service to receive twice weekly developmental tips in either English or Spanish. Please note that enrolling in this service is always free to Howard County families. Standard data and message rates may apply for receiving texts. Please contact Amy_H_Kelly@hcpss.org with any questions.
Connect With Our PTA
The Swansfield PTA is excited to connect with all Swansfield families, staff, and community members. Please join us for our first General PTA meeting Wednesday, September 16, at 7pm via Zoom. To learn more about upcoming PTA activities, how you can get involved, and even join the PTA if you haven't done so already, please visit our website http://swansfieldpta.org/ If you would like to receive information on how to join the upcoming PTA Zoom call please sign up for our emails HERE. You can also sign up for text messages by texting SESPTA to 33222. We look forward to connecting with you soon!
