Hello Phenix Firebirds!
Welcome Back, Firebird Families!
Happy New Year! We hope your winter break was filled with rest, relaxation, and plenty of cocoa. It is "snow" wonderful to see our hallways filled with smiling faces again.
As we kick off 2026, we are looking forward to a semester full of growth, curiosity, and community. Transitions can be a little "chilly" after a break, so we’ve put together a few tips to help everyone get back into the school-day groove!
❄️ Cold Weather Success Tips
The "Three-Layer" Rule: To keep recess fun and safe, please remember to send students with a coat, hat, and gloves. Labeling the tags with a permanent marker is a huge help for our Lost and Found!
Reset the Clock: Darkness stays a little longer in January! Aim for an extra 15 minutes of "wind-down" time in the evening to help students adjust back to early school wake-up calls.
Hydration Stations: Even when it’s cold, kids get thirsty! Make sure your student has a reusable water bottle to keep their brain fueled and hydrated throughout the day.
Healthy Habits: Winter is peak "sniffle season." Remind your little ones about the "vampire sneeze" (sneezing into their elbow) and the importance of washing hands for 20 seconds.
Check the Bag: January often brings new flyers and permission slips. A quick nightly check of the backpack ensures no "cool" opportunities are missed!
Happy New Year! January is a fresh start and a great time to focus on healthy routines. With colder weather still here, please make sure your child comes to school dressed warmly—layers, coats, hats, and gloves help keep them safe and comfortable outdoors.
Cold and flu season is still in full swing. Encourage good handwashing, plenty of sleep, and healthy meals to support strong immune systems. If your child has a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, please keep them home until they are symptom-free for at least 24 hours without medication.
Winter is also a wonderful time to set goals as a family—whether it’s being more active, eating healthier, or practicing gratitude. Small, consistent steps make a big difference!
Wishing you and your family health and happiness in the year ahead!
January is all about Perseverance!
Perseverance means continuing to try, even when something feels hard. We all face challenges, and there are moments when we may feel frustrated, stuck, or ready to give up. Perseverance helps us push through those tough moments and learn from them. By practicing perseverance, children build confidence and discover that effort leads to growth.
As a family, look for opportunities this month to encourage perseverance, whether it’s finishing a tricky homework assignment, learning a new skill, or trying again after a mistake. How will your family practice perseverance together this January?
PHENIX ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Email: richardsondt@ccpsmail.com
Website: https://pes.ccpsk12.org/
Location: 400 Red House Road, Phenix, VA, USA
Phone: (434)542-5570
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ccpsk12