STC Newsletter

Meet the Family Advocate, Jayne Whitson at school during school hours or by appointment. She is available to help students and families succeed with resources, referrals and donated items to help during a family trauma, crisis or setback.

The best way to reach the family advocate is via cell, 612-202-7366.

Isn't EVERY DAY at your house about children's dental health? If you are reminding the kids to brush and floss, begging them to smile for the family photo, or convincing them to eat their veggies then you are doing a great job! Dental health is important part of our physical health and is best if learned at a young age. Many children entering Kindergarten already have cavities and may miss school due to painful tooth decay. Now is a great time to focus on teaching children about oral hygiene and care. Schools That Care has FREE SMILE kits available from Delta Dental to help students replace their toothbrushes. Kits include a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss in a reusable plastic zipper bag which is great for travel! This month, dental checks are scheduled for all Valley Heights students on February 11th and students will be offered a new toothbrush kit at that time.

The American Dental Association offers new materials each year to promote children's dental health all year long. Click below to download the February calendar to teach your children the importance of brushing and flossing everyday. Creating a healthy habit at a young age is the first step to

beneficial lifelong habits. Click here to download the year's calendar.

Each month at Waterville Elementary, the family advocate has been discussing a strength building character word with K-2nd graders. I love working with these students. They are so smart! They catch on quickly to new things and remember what we've talked about in the past too. We really are building character!

In February, I will introduce citizenship. We will discuss standing up for what is right, taking action when something needs to be done, and caring for self, family, school and community. I often say that "it takes a village" when I speak to adults about the blessings in our community and how they impact Schools That Care...and this month, I will get the chance to share that with students to show them how the choices of one person can a difference too! I may also share the story about the starfish on the beach and how throwing them back into the ocean one by one can make a difference.

Parents can help by reinforcing the lessons we learn at school by practicing and talking about them at home too! Click here to download the parent flyer. Thanks for your support!

In January the Character Ed lessons focused on stories, activities and discussions about fairness and justice. We read "Amazing Grace", a story about a girl who didn't let others discourage her with unfair messages, but had courage to be herself. We played a dice game and shared personal experiences of fairness, and drew imaginary worlds where they made up rules to keep things fair and safe.

LOOK here parents! Our friends at PEPC (Pony Express Partnership for Children) is Marshall County's largest resource to help children and families lead better lives, located in Marysville. Here's your invitation to join them for supper, bring the kids to do some fun activities and learn about tools that can help your children and family succeed! RSVP by Feb. 7 for a FREE event on Feb. 12, 5-7pm. You won't want to miss this, call 785-713-9480 or 785-562-6026.

If your family or someone you know experiences a life altering situation and needs assistance to pay utility bills this season, help is available. Applications for LIEAP will be accepted through March 31. Income guidelines apply. Complete the application online. Call 1-877-369-4777 for assistance.

To apply for Free/Reduced meals at VH schools for your student(s) please use this button!

Use This Button to apply for Kansas Food Assistance SNAP for your Family.

Use the button below to apply for energy assistance.