Bret Harte Elementary School
October 12, 2026
Important Dates and Times
Halloween
- October 31
- November 5 & 6
Diwali
- November 8
- November 8
- Friday, November 20
Creating a Healthy Home Environment
This month, we are focusing on creating a healthy home environment, an important aspect highlighted in our Family Guide to Supporting Student Success. A healthy home environment provides children with the structure, routines, and positive supports they need to thrive both academically and socially.
One important part of this is encouraging students to unplug from electronic devices. Research shows that when students regularly step away from screens, they experience better sleep, improved focus, reduced stress, and stronger relationships with family and peers (Twenge & Campbell, 2018). Time spent away from devices also allows children to engage in reading, physical activity, and meaningful conversations—all of which support healthy brain development and academic growth.
To support families in this area, I am also sharing a TED Talk on technology addiction that provides insight into how screen time impacts children and what we can do to help them develop healthier habits.
We encourage families to review the guide below and consider ways to build device-free routines at home that foster balance, structure, and positive connections. Together, we can create supportive environments that help our students succeed in school and beyond.
2026-2027 BHES School Handbook
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XW6N8eJ9JdQxPrHxGaMc6PvV92OOznP6V7mhj_k7atY/edit?tab=t.0
Bret Harte Elementary School
Email: eacevedoortiz@chclc.org
Website: https://www.chclc.org/harte
Location: 1909 Queen Anne Road, Cherry Hill, NJ, USA
Phone: 856-795-0515
