Hello Phenix Firebirds!
News from the Nest for May 2025
Dear Phenix Families,
It’s hard to believe we’ve reached the final stretch of the school year! As we enter the month of May, we’re reminded that “the days are long, but the years are short.” This time of year is filled with excitement, reflection, and anticipation as our students prepare to showcase all they’ve learned.
One important event on the horizon is SOL testing, which will begin soon. These assessments provide an opportunity for our students to demonstrate their growth and mastery of key skills. We encourage families to help students do their best by ensuring they get plenty of rest, eat a healthy breakfast, and arrive at school on time during testing days.
Field Day info is included in the newsletter below. We are really looking forward to having a wonderful day with our students!
It has truly been a pleasure to work with you and your children this year. Your support, encouragement, and partnership make all the difference. As we prepare to close out the year, we hope your summer is filled with joy, rest, and special memories with loved ones.
Warm regards,
Daniel T. Richardson
Principal, Phenix Elementary
Please see our school website calendar (linked below) for May events!
Summer is a fun and exciting time for kids, but it also comes with certain risks. Here are some essential safety tips to keep elementary-aged children safe during the summer months.
1. Sun Safety
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) at least 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours or after swimming.
- Wear lightweight clothing, hats, and sunglasses to protect against UV rays.
- Seek shade between 10 AM and 4 PM, when the sun is strongest.
2. Water Safety
- Always have adult supervision when swimming, even in shallow water.
- Wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets when boating or near deep water.
- Wear bright colored swimsuits.
- Teach children to never run near pools or dive into unknown water depths.
- Encourage kids to take swimming lessons to improve their water skills.
3. Heat Safety
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks.
- Take breaks in the shade or indoors to prevent overheating.
- Know the signs of heat exhaustion (dizziness, nausea, excessive sweating) and seek shade and hydration immediately if symptoms appear.
4. Bike & Outdoor Play Safety
- Always wear a helmet when riding a bike, scooter, or skateboard.
- Wear bright or reflective clothing to increase visibility.
- Check that playground equipment is safe and not too hot before use.
5. Stranger Safety
- Teach kids never to talk to strangers or accept gifts or rides from people they don’t know.
- Always play in groups or with a trusted adult nearby.
- Know important phone numbers in case of an emergency.
By following these safety tips, students can enjoy a fun, active, and safe summer!
Melanie L. Scruggs, RN
May is Mental Health Awareness Month!
At PES, we recognize the importance of supporting not only our students’ academic growth but also their emotional well-being. This month, we’re focusing on simple ways to help children understand and express their feelings, build resilience, and practice kindness. Parents, thank you for being our partners in promoting positive mental health! Keep an eye out for tips and activities to do at home to support your child’s mental wellness.
In addition, for the rest of the school year we will focus on Courage in guidance. One way to think about Courage is “choosing what is helpful, right, and kind even when it is hard or scary.”
PHENIX ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Email: richardsondt@ccpsmail.com
Website: https://pes.ccpsk12.org/
Location: 400 Red House Road, Phenix, VA, USA
Phone: (434)542-5570
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ccpsk12/