March Focus: Healthy Habits Online

This month, we’re focusing on healthy online habits to help children navigate the digital world safely and responsibly. With so much of our daily lives connected to screens, it's important to set boundaries, encourage positive interactions, and model good digital behavior. Simple practices like balancing screen time, thinking before sharing, and recognizing trustworthy sources can make a big difference. Together, we can empower our kids to develop smart, safe, and healthy online habits!

April Focus: Month of the Military Child

April is the Month of the Military Child, a time to honor the strength, resilience, and sacrifices of children in military families. This month, our lessons will focus on the unique challenges they face, from frequent moves to having parents deployed. We’ll explore ways to support these children, foster a sense of belonging, and recognize their incredible adaptability. By understanding their experiences, we can all play a role in making them feel valued and supported in our community.

May Focus: Coping Skills for Test Anxiety

As we approach the end of the school year, many students may feel increased pressure from upcoming tests. This month, we’re focusing on coping with test anxiety by teaching strategies to manage stress and build confidence. Encouraging good study habits, plenty of rest, and relaxation techniques can help students stay calm and focused. Remind your child that preparation and a positive mindset go a long way in reducing anxiety. Together, we can help them finish the year strong!

March 3-7 - National School Social Worker Week

March 4-5 - Mrs. Ford off-campus

March 7 - High School Visits - 8th grade only

March TBA - Reschedule 8th grade trip to Skills Center

March 10th - NC Stem Visit

March 12 - Stem Club Day

March 13-14 - Mrs. Gunnels off campus

March 14 - Mrs. Ford attending Regional Training

March 17 - Teacher Workday - No School for Students

March 18-21 - CHEW FOOD DRIVE

March 20 - Mrs. Gunnels attending District Training

March 28 - Mrs. Ford attending District Training

April 9 - Stem Club Day

April 11 - Purple Up Day

April 14-18 - Spring Break

April 21 - Teacher Workday

April 22 - Mrs. Ford attending District Training

April 24 - Mrs. Gunnels attending District Training

May 9 - Mrs. Ford attending District Training

May 15 - Mrs. Ford off campus - EOG Training

May 22 - Mrs. Gunnels attending District Training

Non-perishable child-friendly foods and easy to prepare meals are always needed. (For Safety Reasons, please do not donate glass items)

Breakfast

• Pop-tarts Individual Cereal Oatmeal Individual Pancake Mix Instant Grits Cereal Bars

Lunch

• Canned Soup [Chicken Noodle, Tomato, Potato] Peanut Butter Jelly (in plastic jars)
• Ravioli / Spaghetti-o's Crackers Canned Fruit/Fruit Cups Snack Bars/Fruit Snacks

Dinner

• Spaghetti / Sauce Canned Vegetables [Mixed Vegetables, Corn, Green Beans, Peas, Carrots]
• Mac & Cheese Complete Meal Boxes/Boxed Meals Canned Chili Beef Stew Beans
• Rice Canned Meat (Tuna, Chicken, Ham) Individual Instant Mashed Potatoes

Forms will be sent home with students on March 18th. Extra Forms are located in the front office.

Email: deanna.ford@onslow.k12.nc.us
Website: https://www.onslow.k12.nc.us/newbridgems
Location: 401 New Bridge Street, Jacksonville, NC, USA
Phone: 910-346-5144

Our focus areas include academic success, attendance, college and career exploration, and social/ emotional health! It is going to be a great year!! Please reach out if we can be of help to you!

Mrs. Ford, School Counselor

910-346-5144 ext. 25010

Deanna.ford@onslow.k12.nc.us

School Counselor Services may be requested by student, parent, or teacher:

1. Individual Check-ins to support student success

2. Small Support Groups - Academic, Grief, Deployment/Military Support, etc.

3. Weekly Character Education

4. Referrals to School-based and Community Resources

5. Consultations with teachers & parents

6. Section 504 Plans

7. Assist with High School Registration

8. Registration for Encore & High School Courses in Middle School

9. School-wide Programs: i.e., Red Ribbon Week. Stem Clubs, Title 1, School Leadership Team

Mrs. Gunnels, School Social Worker

910-346-5144 ext. 25015

Chelsea.gunnels@onslow.k12.nc.us

Social Work Services may be requested by student, parent, or teacher:

1. CHEW! (Children Healthy Eating on Weekends)

2. Assist students to overcome barriers to school attendance

3. Assist in the development in problem solving skills and coping methods in situations that may interfere with student achievement.

4. Link families with community resources to promote student success.

5. Individual Check-ins to support student success

6. Weekly Character Education

7. Referrals to School-based and Community Resources