Florence Wilson Elementary School
News From the Nest-February 2026
The magic of 20 minutes
Why Reading at Home Matters
We often hear that reading is the foundation of all learning, but the true "magic" happens when a book is opened at home. While our teachers work hard on phonics and comprehension during the school day, the time spent reading at home provides the emotional connection and "brain gym" workouts that help children truly thrive.
Why "Just 20 Minutes" a Day?
Research shows a staggering difference in vocabulary and academic success based on daily reading habits. By the time they reach 6th grade, a student who reads for 20 minutes a day will have been exposed to nearly 2 million words annually, compared to just 8,000 words for a student who reads for one minute a day.
Building Vocabulary: Books often use words we don’t use in everyday conversation. Exposure to these "rare" words helps children succeed in all subjects, including math and science.
Strengthening the Bond: Reading together—even for older kids—creates a safe, quiet space for connection after a busy day.
Developing Empathy: Stories allow children to step into someone else’s shoes, helping them understand different perspectives and emotions.
Simple Ways to Make it Happen
Read the "Wrong" Way: It doesn’t always have to be a chapter book. Graphic novels, cookbooks, or instruction manuals for LEGOs all count!
Be a Reading Role Model: Let your child see you reading a book, magazine, or news article.
The "Five Finger Rule": If your child is reading independently and hits five words on one page they don't know, the book might be too frustrated for them right now. Choose a "just right" book to keep it fun!
Remember: You are your child's first and most influential teacher. Whether it’s a bedtime story or a quick read on the way to practice, every page counts!
Book Fair
https://www.scholastic.com/bf/florencewilsonelemschool
Visit the book fair Feb 23-26, stop by during P/T Conferences
Drop Off/Pick Up
Pull all the way to the curb to pick up your child. This keeps the lane clear for other cars. DO not drop your child off in the middle of the street.
If you park across the street or on a side street, you must walk across the street to meet your child. DO NOT have your child walk across the street alone.
Remember that the church parking lot is available if the street out back is full.
Be respectful of our neighbors. Do not block their driveways or mailboxes.
Always follow all traffic laws. Drive slowly, obey all signs, do NOT stop in the middle of the street, and be aware of crossing guards.
February Events
Feb. 6th-Popcorn Friday
Feb. 7th-Finney County Spelling Bee at 8:30 am
Feb. 10th- Picture Day
Feb. 13th-Popcorn Friday
Feb. 20th-No School
Feb. 25th- P/T Conferences 4:10-7:10 PM
Feb. 26th-No School
P/T Conferences 8:00 AM-6:20 PM
Feb. 27th-No School
Office News
- KDG – 2nd grade $25.00 instructional fee/ $15.00 Tech fee = $40.00
- 3rd & 4th grade $30.00 instructional fee /$ 15.00 Tech fee =$ 45.00
Payment Methods
We accept cash, check, or card in the office.
- Online – E-Funds
- If joining you child for lunch please let the office know by 9:00 a.m.
- Cost is $5.00
- No commercial food is allowed in the cafeteria
POPCORN FRIDAYS!
PTO members will be selling popcorn on Fridays!!
Feb. 6
Feb. 13
PTO News
PTO Meeting-Tuesday, February 10th at 6:15
PTO members help with:
Holiday Parties
Friday Popcorn Sales
Luncheons for Staff
Snacks for State Testing
Teacher Appreciation Week Gifts
Last Day of School Treats
A FW Scholarship for high school students/graduates to GCCC
If you are interested in joining our PTO, please contact the front office.