September 2026
School is Back!
From the Desk of Dr. Peck
Dear Newberry Families,
Welcome back to school. I hope everyone had a fun and memorable summer break. Our team has been work hard preparing for fun-filled learning activities and lessons. At Washington Heights, we are committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where all students can succeed.
🏫 What to Expect This Year:
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Engaging academic experiences
Providing a positive school climate
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Strong family-school partnerships
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A focus on student well-being and success
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Opportunities to get involved!
🤝 Let’s Stay Connected!
We know that strong relationships with families make all the difference. Be sure to follow us on social media, check Seesaw and emails for updates. Thank you for being part of our Washington Heights community. Let’s continue making this a great year!
Sincerely,
Dr. Peck
Principal, Washington Heights Elementary School
Message from the School Nurses
How does the flu and colds spread?
Flu viruses are thought to spread mainly from person to person through droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze, or talk. Flu viruses also may spread when people touch something with flu virus on it and then touch their mouth, eyes, or nose. Many other viruses spread these ways too.
What are the symptoms of the flu versus the symptoms of a cold?
In general, the flu is worse than the common cold, and symptoms such as fever, body aches, extreme tiredness, and dry cough are more common and intense.
Colds are usually milder than the flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose.
What are everyday preventive actions?
· Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
· If you or your child gets sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you (or your child) stay home for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. The fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.
· Students may return to school, when they have been fever free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medicine.
· While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
· Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
· Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
· Your child is permitted to carry chap stick at school.
· Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like the flu.
Medications:
Per district policy, students are not permitted to carry to school any medications. This includes, cough drops, Tylenol, etc. All medications that are to be given at school must be brought to school by an adult. Please refer to the school handbook, district handbook and school district website regarding the medication policies.