Dear Phenix Elementary Families,
Happy February! This month is filled with exciting learning opportunities, celebrations, and a focus on kindness and community. As we move through the heart of winter, we continue to nurture a love of learning and create a supportive environment where every child can thrive.
February is a special time for us as we celebrate Black History Month, recognizing the achievements and contributions of African Americans throughout history. Our students will engage in meaningful activities, discussions, and projects that highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion.
We also look forward to Valentine’s Day, a perfect opportunity to spread kindness and appreciation to friends, teachers, and family members.
As always, we appreciate your partnership in your child’s education. Be sure to check out the rest of the newsletter for important dates, upcoming events, and school highlights.
Wishing you a wonderful month ahead!
Warm regards,
Daniel T. Richardson
Principal, Phenix Elementary
Please see our school website calendar (linked below) for February events!
Norovirus can spread quickly, especially among kids, so it's important to take steps to prevent it. Here are some key ways to help prevent norovirus infection for kids:
- Hand Hygiene:
Frequent Handwashing: Teach kids to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom, before eating, and after handling any contaminated surfaces or objects.
Hand Sanitizer: If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, but encourage hand washing whenever possible.
- Proper Food Handling:
Wash Fruits and Vegetables: Rinse all fruits and vegetables under running water, especially before eating or preparing them..
- Clean Surfaces Regularly:
Disinfect Common Areas: Norovirus spreads through contact with contaminated surfaces, so clean and disinfect high-touch areas (like doorknobs, light switches, and countertops) frequently, especially if someone has been sick.
- Avoid Close Contact with Sick People:
Stay Home When Sick: If your child is sick, keep them at home to prevent the virus from spreading to others. Kids with norovirus should stay home until at least 48 hours after symptoms end.
Avoid Touching or Sharing: Encourage kids not to share cups, eating utensils, or towels, especially with someone who is ill.
- Keep a Safe Distance:
Limit Exposure to Crowded Places: Norovirus can spread quickly in places like schools, daycare centers, or large gatherings. If there's an outbreak in a community, try to limit the time spent in such places.
- Proper Disposal of Contaminated Items:
Handle Waste Properly: If a child vomits or has diarrhea, wear gloves to clean up the mess, and immediately disinfect the area. Dispose of any contaminated clothes or linens carefully by washing them in hot water.
- Monitor for Symptoms:
Watch for Signs of Norovirus: Symptoms often include vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and sometimes fever. If you notice these symptoms, keep your child hydrated and seek medical advice if necessary, especially if dehydration occurs.
February: A Month of Reflection and Growth!
February is a busy month filled with important celebrations! From February 3-7, we celebrate National School Counseling Week, highlighting the vital role school counselors play in supporting students. This year’s theme is “School Counseling: Helping Students Thrive,” a reminder of the unique contributions counselors make to our school community.
Next, from February 9-15, we’ll observe Virginia’s Kindness Week. Throughout the week, we’ll explore the meaning of kindness and discuss how we can all practice it more in our daily lives.
To wrap up the month, we’ll focus on the theme of honesty—what it truly means to be honest and why it’s an essential value in building trust and respect.
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/