Happy Friday, Lil Steamer Families!

Lil Steamer Families --

We've had a great two days to start the school year and look forward to many more to come!

There is one quick note I wanted to provide in regards to an update to our FES Handbook:

• Students at Fulton Elementary School may not carry cell phones, smart watches, or other similar technologies with them during the school day. These devices must be turned off and kept in their backpacks during the day.

If you would like to read the full policy, please use this link to access the FES Handbook and then scroll to 6.80 Student Use of Electronic Devices. This includes the consequences for students in violation of this procedure.

Additionally, due to the research-based evidence that shows the significant negative impacts of smartphones on young students, FES and FMS are encouraging families to sign the pledge to Wait Until 8th. This initiative is a commitment that families pledge to forego giving their children a smartphone until at least the end of 8th grade.

There is more information on this (as well as a link to sign the pledge) further down in the newsletter.

Have a terrific weekend,

JAGH

Welcome Back!! This has been a crazy week but it has been so good to get our Lil' Steamers back into the building and back into classrooms. Hopefully these first couple of days have helped with getting some of the nerves and anxiousness to disappear. Seeing the smiles, high-fives, and energy filling the hallways over the last two days has been a wonderful reminder of what makes Fulton Elementary . Our teachers and sthe Greatest Little Elementary in the Universe. Staff have done an incredible job establishing routines, building classroom communities, and helping our students feel safe, welcomed, and ready to learn.

As we ease into the rhythm of the new school year, here are a few gentle reminders to help keep everything running smoothly:

• Drop-off & Pick-up: Thank you for your patience with our drop-off and dismissal routines during these first couple of days. Traffic always takes a few days to settle, but safety remains our top priority. Please stay alert, follow staff directions, and keep crosswalks clear.

• Routine & Rest: Returning to a structured schedule after summer break can be exhausting for little ones (and grown-ups!). Prioritizing early bedtimes and consistent morning routines over the weekend will help everyone recharge for our first full week ahead.

• Communication: We value our partnership with you. Never hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher, Principal Hoese, or myself if you ever have questions, concerns, or need support.

Thank you for sharing your children with us every day. We are looking forward to a fantastic school year full of growth, learning, and fun! Enjoy a well-deserved weekend!

I had the opportunity to visit each classroom this week and welcome everyone back. I was able to explain exactly what a counselor does. We talked about feelings and how I can help them if they are having uncomfortable feelings. I support the students and encourage them to see me if they are struggling. I explained how I see students individually and in groups to help them to work through anything they may be struggling with. Sometimes students may feel like their world is falling apart. I am here to support those students and to help them to develop strategies and coping skills to work through it. I also make monthly visits to their classrooms to talk about friendship, responsibility, and problem solving. I'm looking forward to a wonderful year with our students!

We had an awesome first two days of 3rd grade! Students are already settling into our routines, getting to know their classmates, and showing lots of enthusiasm for learning. I’m looking forward to a fantastic school year together! - Miss Guerrero

While we are excited that our elementary and middle school students enjoy attending home events, it is important that everyone understands the expectations for student behavior. Our priority is to keep students safe and ensure all fans can enjoy Steamer events.

⚓ Entry & Supervision

• Enter Together: All K–8 students must enter the event with an adult, who is responsible for them the entire event.

• No Re-entry: Once inside, students may not leave and return.

• Elementary (K–5) Students: At home football games, may sit in the designated student section and must follow all expectations. All other games, they must stay with their parent/guardian.

• Middle School (6–8) Students: May sit in the designated student section (when provided) and must follow all expectations.

• High School (9-12) Students: May sit in the designated student section(s) and stand along the fence.

⚓ Where to Be

• Stay in the Stands: Students should remain in the bleachers watching the event – not roaming hallways, fields, or campus.

• Designated Sections: Student sections, when available, will be clearly marked.

• Building Access: Students may only be in approved areas (e.g., concessions, restrooms). All other areas are off‑limits.

⚓ Game Day Behavior

• Watch the Event: We are here to cheer on the Steamers! The focus should be on the field or court. Do not bring footballs, basketballs, or other sporting equipment.

• No Side Games: Playing separate games or running around school grounds is prohibited to ensure everyone’s safety.

• Show Respect: Treat staff, concession workers, officials, players, and fellow fans with kindness. Respect school property at all times, this includes picking up after themselves.

• Follow directions: Students must follow all directives from school staff and event supervisors.

⚓ Consequences

• First Warning: Students who misbehave will be sent to sit with their supervising adult for the rest of the event.

• Serious or repeated violations – including being in unauthorized areas or causing disruptions – may result in removal from the event and/or loss of privilege to attend future home events.

We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain a safe, positive, and respectful environment for all Steamer fans. Together, we ensure our students enjoy events safely while cheering on the Steamers with pride.

The River Bend school district is committed to nurturing healthy, thriving students both inside and outside the classroom. Growing research shows that early smartphone access negatively impacts children's mental health, sleep, attention spans, and social development.

To help our kids build real-world connections and protect their developing brains, we are encouraging families to join the Wait Until 8th initiative. By taking the pledge, you agree to delay giving your child a smartphone until at least the end of 8th grade.

Empower your child to just be a kid a little longer. And remember, you don't have to do it alone! Joining the pledge connects you with other parents in our school community who are making the same commitment.

Registration closes Oct 1

Practice Starts Oct 19

Runs Monday and Thursday 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Ages K-8th grade

Wrestler Registration Form

IKWF Cost ($60 in district/$100 out of district)

IKWF Card Cost ($60)

Singlet Deposit-Separate Check ($60) **will be returned when singlet is turned in**

Checks made payable to RBWC

Checks will be due first practice

Email: jhoese@riverbendschools.net
Website: riverbendschools.org/fes
Location: 1301 7th Avenue, Fulton, IL, USA
Phone: (815)589-2911
Twitter: @FultonSteamers