Wildcat Weekly Update

Greetings Hereford Families,

Welcome back! We hope you and your family had a restful and enjoyable Thanksgiving break. As we return, we are excited to continue our journey of learning and success together.

We are thrilled to share some outstanding news! Congratulations to Mrs. Fuqua, our Teacher of the Year, and Mrs. Bradley, our Support Person of the Year! Their dedication to our scholars, staff, and families makes a remarkable impact every day.

Additionally, we are proud to announce an increase in our school’s report card grade from an F in 2022 to a C in 2024! This achievement reflects the hard work and commitment of our scholars, families, and staff. Together, we continue to raise the bar and ensure success for every scholar.

We want to remind families that ACAP Practice Testing begins on December 3. It is crucial for scholars to be at school daily and on time so they can fully engage in these important sessions that prepare them for success.

Finally, we’re excited to kick off the holiday season with our 12 Days of Christmas Dress-Up Days! This is a fun opportunity for our school community to spread holiday cheer while showing off some festive spirit. A calendar of themed dress-up days is attached below—join us in making the season merry and bright!

Thank you for your continued support as we work together to finish this semester strong. Let’s make it a December to remember!

Kindly,

Principal Williams

• December 2 - NED Show (9:15 a.m.)

• December 2 - Christmas at Calhoun "A Gift to the Community" (5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.)

• December 12 - The Christmas Gift Free Holiday Family Event (5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.)

• December 19- Holiday Program (9:00 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.)

• December 20 - Early Dismissal (11:30 a.m.)

Punishment Does Not Teach

PBIS research highlights problems with punishments, which are called “aversive interventions.” Research shows that a punished child is likely to flip into an emotionally dysregulated state (fight/flight/freeze) that actually blocks learning. Chances are low that the child will know what to do next time because the punishment didn’t provide a learning opportunity.

PBIS teaches what to do instead—and how to do it. Parents who calmly direct a child toward a new way of problem-solving can interrupt or prevent an escalation and help the child make better and better choices moving forward.

Keep in mind that parents need to stay regulated to help children. PAVE provides resources to help adults work on their own self-control and support their children:

• Article: Self-Care is Critical for Caregivers with Unique Challenges
• Video library: Self-Care Videos for Families Series
• Short breathing/mindfulness activities for all ages and abilities: Mindfulness Videos

Have a great week!

AP Frye & AP Grant

Greetings, Hereford Families!

Alabama Public Television Young Writers & Illustrators Contest

Alabama Public Television invites kindergarten through third-grade students to unleash their creativity in our annual APT Young Writers & Illustrators Contest! By participating, they’ll have the chance to win prizes, gain valuable experience, and develop essential skills like storytelling, imagination, and artistic expression. Let’s nurture their talent together and inspire the next generation of writers and illustrators!

Age Groups: Kindergarten through 3rd grade

Prizes: First, second and third place winners in each grade level will receive trophies and gift certificates. First place winners in each grade level will receive a laptop computer. Every student who participates will receive a certificate of recognition for their work.

Submission Deadline: April 1, 2025

How to Enter: Download the entry form and submit it with your student’s book. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you would like the book returned.

Sincerely,

Stephanie Tomes

Welcome back Hereford Elementary School Families,

I hope that you had the opportunity to eat well and spend some time with your family. We have moved quickly through the month of November. December will be a blur! Let’s create a challenge each week for the next 3 weeks of school! This week’s challenge (drum roll please……), daily ATTENDANCE!!

No, this challenge has nothing to do with science, but we are taking our ACAP Practice assessments this week. Please have your student at school, on time, every day. Below are our ROAR testing expectations. Please review them with your child in preparation for the assessment.

We can’t wait to see you on Monday for another week of learning! Stay tuned for next week’s challenge!

Thanks!

April Draine

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday with your families!

Let’s take a moment to reflect and be THANKFUL for math this week.

“Why Is Math Important?” by Ada Bianco

Math Is Everywhere

The first reason math is important is because it is everywhere. It is used in everyday life. It is useful, but it is more than just useful. Math is there to help us, to keep us well ordered, to help us learn new things and to help teach us new things. Students will become adults who will use math in their jobs. All kinds of careers use math. For example, musicians, accountants, fashion designers, and mothers use math. However, math is not only used for things you do. It also brings order to everything around you. The world is organized essentially because it was made with math.

Children Need Math

The second reason math is important is children need math. Now, as we all know, children are as chaotic as a volcanic eruption. But as they grow, children need to learn patience. Patience is precisely what math teaches us. It also teaches us curiosity. For example, why is this rule used here? Why would that number be negative? Why is that equation set up like that? These are questions they will learn to ask if they are taught math. The parents’ job is to help their children grow up to become good people who are patient and wise, who want to learn even more about anything and everything. Their future depends on what they have learned and if they have learned mathematics, then they will be able to do many different things—maybe even anything—when they are adults.

Go Wildcats!

Rebecca Ramsey

The Joy of Giving: Celebrating December

December is a special month filled with joy, warmth, and the spirit of giving. As the holiday season approaches, families and friends come together to share love and kindness. This time of year reminds us to think about others and how we can help those in need. Let's explore the importance of giving and some wonderful children's literature that captures this spirit!

Children's Literature about Giving

Reading stories about giving can inspire us to be kind and generous. Here are some wonderful children's books that celebrate the spirit of giving:

"The Giving Tree" by Shel Silverstein

This classic tale tells the story of a tree that gives everything to a boy. It teaches us about unconditional love and the joy of giving.

Watch a read aloud here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XFQZfeHq9wo

"How the Grinch Stole Christmas!" by Dr. Seuss

This fun story is about the Grinch, who learns the true meaning of Christmas. It reminds us that it's not about the presents, but about love and community.

Watch a read aloud here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTmw0lyozao

Happy Reading!

Quirante. Hereford

Helping Your Child Succeed in School

As a parent, you play a vital role in your child's education. There are many ways you can help your elementary school student succeed. Here are some effective strategies and suggestions to support your child's learning and growth.

Create a Positive Learning Environment

A good place to study can make a big difference. Set up a quiet, comfortable area in your home where your child can do homework and read. Make sure this space is free from distractions like TV or loud noises. Having a routine can also help. Try to have a set time each day for homework and studying. This way, your child knows what to expect and can focus better.

Encourage Reading

Reading is very important for young learners. Encourage your child to read every day. You can help by providing a variety of books that match their interests. Visit the library together and let them choose books they find exciting. Reading together can also be a great bonding time. Ask questions about the stories to help improve their understanding and critical thinking skills.

Stay Involved in School Activities

Being involved in your child’s school can show them that education is important. Attend parent-teacher conferences and school events. This way, you can learn more about your child’s progress and how to help them. Volunteer for school activities if you can. It helps you connect with other parents and teachers, and it shows your child that you care about their education.

Help with Homework

When your child has homework, be there to support them, but don’t do it for them. Encourage them to try their best and to ask questions if they don’t understand something. You can help them break down bigger tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Celebrate their efforts and progress, no matter how small it may seem.

Teach Organization Skills

Help your child learn to be organized. Provide them with a planner or a calendar where they can write down homework assignments and important dates. Teach them to keep their school supplies and backpack neat. Being organized can reduce stress and help your child feel more in control of their tasks.

Encourage a Growth Mindset

Teach your child that making mistakes is a part of learning. Encourage them to view challenges as opportunities to grow. Praise their effort rather than just the outcome. For example, say, “I’m proud of how hard you worked on that project!” This helps them develop resilience and a positive attitude toward learning.

Limit Screen Time

While technology can be helpful for learning, it’s important to limit screen time. Encourage your child to spend time playing outside, doing crafts, or reading instead of spending too much time on tablets or TVs. Balance is key to ensuring they develop various skills.

Communicate Openly

Keep the lines of communication open with your child. Ask them about their day, what they learned, and what they enjoy about school. Listen to their concerns and feelings. This helps them feel supported and valued, which can boost their confidence and motivation to succeed.

By following these strategies, you can help your elementary school student thrive in their education.

Remember, your support and encouragement can make a big difference in their success!

Have an awesome week!

Ann Elkins

Thank you!

Dear Students and Parents,

I hope you all had a wonderful and restful Thanksgiving Break. As we come back together, I want to take a moment to reflect on all the things we should be thankful for. During this time of year, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holidays, but it's also a great opportunity to focus on the blessings in our lives—big and small.

We are thankful for our families, friends, teachers, and school community who support and inspire us every day. We are grateful for the health and safety of our loved ones and the chance to grow and learn together. We are thankful for the kindness and joy we share and for the opportunities we have to make a positive difference in each other's lives.

This month, our character word is Cheerfulness. As we approach the holiday season, let's embrace cheerfulness in all that we do. Whether it's sharing a smile with a friend, helping someone in need, or simply spreading positive energy, our cheerful attitudes can make a world of difference. Being cheerful helps lift the spirits of those around us and creates an atmosphere of kindness and warmth, which is what we need most during this special time of year.

I encourage each of you to take time this season to spread cheer, be kind to others, and reflect on the many reasons we must be thankful. Remember, even small acts of kindness can have a big impact, and the joy you spread can return to you in wonderful ways.

As always, we are here for you if you need support or someone to talk to. Wishing everyone a joyful, cheerful, and thankful holiday season!

Warm regards,

J. Jewel Thorne & Reginald Johnson

School Guidance Counselor

Upcoming Events: (See attached poster)

- Christmas at Calhoun, a gift to the community: Dec. 2, from 5 pm – 7 pm, at the Sparkman Grand Foyer Huntsville Campus

- NED is Coming to Sonnie Hereford on Monday, Dec. 2, at 9:15 AM, Students will learn the power of being courageous. (Yoyo’s on sale) www.MindsetMission.com

• Supervision of students begin at 7:30 each morning; therefore, students should not arrive to school before 7:30 AM.

• Students who are walkers are to follow the sidewalk leading to the crossing guard and to the front door of the school.

• Students who are walkers should not walk across the Pre-K parking lot without being supervised by parent/guardian.

• Parents who enter Pre-K parking lot (yellow arrows) to drop off Kinder-6th grade students must park and escort student(s) to front of school.

• Parents who enter faculty and staff parking lot (blue arrows) to drop off Kinder-6th grade students must park and escort student(s) to crosswalk.

• School starts promptly at 8:00 AM.

• Students arriving after 8:00 AM are tardy and must have a parent or a guardian sign them in at the main office.

Student check-out ends at 1:45-must have valid identification and listed as a contact in

PowerSchool SIS.

• All students will be dismissed at 2:30.

• Students are either a bus rider, car rider or walker.

• Parents are asked not to congregate near the front door of the school or the pick-up area. You

will be asked to clear the dismissal area- please do so.

• Parents of walkers are asked to meet your children at home or at the crosswalk.

• Parents of car riders are asked to remain in your vehicle in the car line during pick-up.

• Pre-K parking lot (yellow arrows) is reserved only for Pre-K families with Parking Permit displayed.

• WALKERS- in the event of rain, parents are asked to provide child/ren with rain gear or send a written/typed note to teacher to change dismissal to car rider for that day by 1:30 pm.