Hello Hereford Families,
Writing is such an important lifelong skill for your scholar to learn, but did you know that writing can be FUN?
According to the Reading Rockets website, "...writing is an essential skill that can help students become stronger readers; it can provide the means to enhance vocabulary, comprehension and spelling abilities."
Acrostic Poems for Winter
One of the best ways to introduce poetry is to write an acrostic poem with your student. There is no pressure to rhyme, they get to play with words, and it is easy to choose a topic. Writing acrostic poetry is something that everyone can enjoy! After watching the video explanation below, try your hand at writing an acrostic poem using the word, WINTER. What other winter-themed words can you use to write a poem?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMqB-3qpTao
Happy Reading!
Mrs. Tomes
Greetings Sonnie Hereford Family, One of the things that most affects attendance is when students stop attending school but have not been officially withdrawn. These absences accumulate rapidly towards the point of no return with chronic absenteeism. The state of Alabama expects students to be enrolled in school each day of the school year. If a student will no longer be attending our school, the parent or guardian with custody needs to come to school with their ID and fill out the Withdrawal Form when the student leaves school on their last day or in the morning the day after their last day. Proper withdrawal procedures facilitate a smooth transition for everyone involved. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to reach out to us in the front office; we are happy to assist you. Remember to take care of your health: Drink lots of water to help keep the inside of your body clean Eat lots of fruits and vegetables and limit sugar Go to sleep early at night for a good night's rest Get exercise, sunlight and fresh air as often as possible Maintain a good balance of everything in life and be at peace In February our monthly incentive is for classes to earn perfect attendance days for every student being present. Stickers are placed on classroom calendars so everyone knows how many they have earned so far. Classes must earn at least 14 days of perfect attendance this February to be eligible to win the reward. The reward is that one class in each grade (K - 6) that has the highest number of perfect attendance days (at least 14) will win a Popcorn Party and get to watch a movie in class together! Let’s ace attendance and ace life!
Mandisa Thornton, School Attendance Officer
Parents play an important role in their children's education, especially during elementary school years. There are many ways parents can support their kids at home to help them learn and grow. Here are some helpful tips for parents to consider:
1. Create a Comfortable Learning Space
Having a designated area for homework and study can make a big difference. Parents can set up a quiet, well-lit space with all the necessary supplies, like pencils, paper, and books. This space should be free from distractions, such as television and loud noises, to help children concentrate better.
2. Establish a Routine
Setting a daily schedule can help children know what to expect. Parents can create a routine that includes time for homework, reading, and play. Consistent routines help children feel secure and understand the importance of managing their time effectively.
3. Encourage Reading
Reading is essential for learning. Parents can encourage their children to read by providing a variety of books that interest them. Reading together as a family can also make it fun. Parents can ask questions about the story to help children think critically and improve their comprehension skills.
4. Be Involved in Homework
Parents should take an active interest in their children's homework. They can help by explaining difficult concepts or encouraging their kids when they feel stuck. However, it’s important for parents to let children do their own work to build confidence and independence.
5. Communicate with Teachers
Staying in touch with teachers can help parents understand what their children are learning in school. Parents can attend parent-teacher conferences and ask questions about their child's progress. This communication helps parents support their children’s learning at home.
6. Promote a Growth Mindset
It’s important for parents to encourage their children to keep trying, even when things get tough. Parents can teach their kids that making mistakes is part of learning. Praising effort rather than just results can help children develop a positive attitude towards challenges.
7. Limit Screen Time
While technology is a valuable learning tool, too much screen time can be distracting. Parents can set limits on time spent on tablets, phones, and computers. Instead, they can encourage outdoor play, arts and crafts, or family games that promote learning and creativity.
By following these simple steps, parents can create a supportive home environment that helps their children succeed in school. Working together, parents and children can make learning an enjoyable and rewarding experience!
Thank you!
Ann Elkins
Dear Students and Parents,
This week, our school is focusing on an incredibly important topic: Bullying and Bullying Prevention. As part of our commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all students, we are taking time to educate and raise awareness about bullying, its impact, and how we can all play a role in preventing it.
What is Bullying?
Bullying is when someone repeatedly hurts, threatens, or excludes another person on purpose. It can happen in many ways:
- Physical bullying (hitting, pushing, or damaging someone's belongings)
- Verbal bullying (name-calling, teasing, or spreading rumors)
- Social bullying (excluding someone from groups or activities)
- Cyberbullying (using technology to harass or threaten others)
Why Does Bullying Matter?
Bullying can have serious consequences on a student’s emotional and mental well-being. It can affect their confidence, sense of belonging, and even their performance in school. It's essential to understand that bullying is not just a "part of growing up." It's a harmful behavior that can lead to long-term emotional pain and isolation.
What Are We Doing This Week?
In class, we are discussing the importance of kindness, empathy, and respect. Students are learning to recognize bullying behaviors and understand how they can respond appropriately. We are also teaching conflict resolution strategies and encouraging students to speak up if they see or experience bullying.
Additionally, we are focusing on:
- Building empathy: Understanding how others feel helps to prevent bullying.
- Being an active bystander: If you see bullying happening, speak up and support the person being bullied.
- Creating a positive school culture: Together, we can make our school a place where everyone feels safe and valued.
What Can Parents Do?
Parents, your role is critical in supporting the anti-bullying message. Here are a few ways you can help:
- Talk about bullying: Have open and honest conversations with your child about bullying. Ask them about their experiences at school and encourage them to share how they feel.
- Model kindness and respect: Show your child how to treat others with kindness and respect in your everyday interactions.
- Encourage standing up for others: Teach your child to stand up for their peers who may be experiencing bullying, either by offering support or alerting an adult.
- Know the signs of bullying: If your child is suddenly withdrawing, experiencing changes in behavior, or seems upset about going to school, these may be signs that they are dealing with bullying. Reach out to us for support if needed.
How Can Students Help Prevent Bullying?
Students, you have the power to make a difference. Here are some simple yet impactful ways you can contribute to bully prevention:
- Treat others how you want to be treated: Small acts of kindness go a long way.
- Be an ally: If you see someone being bullied, offer your support and tell an adult.
- Speak up: If you witness bullying, don’t stay silent. Your voice can help stop bullying and create a safer environment.
- Practice inclusive: Invite others to join activities, and make sure no one feels left out.
A Partnership for Change
Preventing bullying is not a job that one person or one group can tackle alone, it’s something that requires all of us to work together. Teachers, parents, students, and staff must all collaborate to ensure that our school is a safe and welcoming place for everyone.
We are committed to helping all students feel valued, respected, and supported. Let’s continue to foster a community where kindness is the rule, not the exception.
Black History Month Nugget:
Sojourner Truth was a former enslaved woman who became a prominent abolitionist and women's rights activist. She is best known for her 1851 speech, "Ain't I a Woman?" which powerfully addressed both racial and gender inequality. Truth’s efforts to fight for justice and equality left a lasting impact on the movement for civil rights.
George Washington Carver was a renowned agricultural scientist and inventor who promoted crop rotation and the use of peanuts to improve soil quality. He developed over 300 products from peanuts, sweet potatoes, and other crops, revolutionizing agricultural practices in the South. Carver's work helped boost both the economy and the livelihoods of many Black farmers in the early 20th century.
Upcoming Event:
Sonnie Hereford Elementary School Presents our Annual Black History Program
Date: Tuesday, February 25, 2025
Time: 5:30 PM
Location: Sonnie Hereford Gymnasium
What to wear: Wear your Black History T-shirt or What your class requires for the evening
As always, if you have any concerns or need support, feel free to reach out. Together, we can make a positive impact!
Counseling Team
Jewel Thorne & Reginald Johnson
