February 2021 | Focus on FACE Newsletter
In this Issue...
Welcome to another edition of Focus on FACE! This month, check out a story about the awesome family engagement efforts at Robert Morris School, a new monthly feature in collaboration with Read by 4th, the exciting Family Academy Online courses in store for February, and more. Happy reading!
FEATURED
The School District of Philadelphia Begins Phased Return to In-Person Learning
After nearly a year of 100% digital learning due to COVID-19, our School District will begin slowly and safely phasing in groups of students who choose to transition to a mix of in-person and digital learning (hybrid learning). Students opting into hybrid learning would attend school in person two days per week — on their assigned days only — and engage in digital learning the remaining three days.
PreK-2 students whose families selected hybrid learning during the initial selection process in the fall will phase in first, beginning on Monday, February 22nd . Staff supporting our PreK-2 students will return to school buildings on Monday, February 8th to prepare to welcome students on the 22nd. PreK-2 families who chose to remain 100% digital during the selection process will have the chance to opt in at a later date. School leaders will be reaching out to their PreK-2 families with specific details.
FAMILY RESOURCES & INFORMATION
Get Your Questions Answered During Digital Learning!
The School District of Philadelphia Hotlines remain open to answer general questions about the District. They are available in 10 languages, Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
The Get Help Page is designed to assist families with getting the help they need with their student's education, classroom, and school. Find contact information and resources on this page for support.
Check out a Brand New Schedule of Family Academy Online Workshops!
Family Academy: Courses & Training (FACT) February 2021 Courses Include:

  • Instructional Strategies to Assist Students with Emotional Support 

  • Instructional Support in the Home for Students Receiving Learning Support

  • Instructional Support for English Learner Families

  • Look Fors and Practice Strategies for Pre K-3 in English Language Arts (ELA)

  • Setting up Students with Autism and Complex Needs for Success in the Home 

Session descriptions, meeting entry information, and the interpretation request form can be found at www.philasd.org/FACE/FACT!
Interpretation is available for FACT Online workshops!
Multilingual families can request interpretation for workshops in the following languages: Albanian, Arabic, Chinese, French, Portuguese (Wednesdays & Thursdays only), Russian, and Spanish. Please visit www.tinyurl.com/FACTinterpretation to register.
Kindergarten Registration is Now Open!
Kindergarten registration for the 2021-2022 school year is now open. If you have a child who will be five years old on or before September 1st, please register them by May 28th, 2021 to give them an opportunity to Thrive at Five!
Clear Communication in the Forefront at Robert Morris School
These days, it can be a challenge to share information with the entire school community and make sure that everyone is in the know. At Robert Morris School, the administration has paid extra attention to its communication efforts to ensure that any and all information is sent out to all family members so that nobody is left in the dark.
February Reading Promise: We Read in Color
Philly is making a Reading Promise to help our children become the strong readers they deserve to be. Starting in February, Focus on FACE will feature a Reading Promise article every month, in collaboration with Read by 4th. Find free and low-cost tips and resources about literacy to support your child. This month, check out literacy resources for Black History Month.
SAC Tip of the Month: Collaborating with Other Family Groups in Your School
Many schools have multiple family groups working hard to discuss school improvement, raise funds, and foster a spirit of belonging. Learn how SACs can work with other family organizations to improve the school community for all school stakeholders.
You Can Now Use Your EBT/SNAP Benefits to Get Groceries Delivered From Your Couch!
Eat Right Philly is here to help you “Choose a Healthier You” in 2021! Half the battle is making the healthy choice, the easy choice. And online grocery shopping and delivery is one of the easiest ways to get healthy food into your home. You can now use your EBT/SNAP benefits to order groceries online, making it even easier!
New From the Promoting Adolescent Student Health (PASH) Program: The Mind Report
Homeschooling, remote work, and quarantine has been a major adjustment for staff, students, and in a unique way, parents and caregivers. The Promoting Adolescent Student Health (PASH) program, the District's HIV, STI, and unintended pregnancy prevention program is committed to providing families with vital resources and information. PASH, in partnership with Lakeside Global Institute, has curated a monthly parent and caregiver newsletter, The Mind Report: Strengthening Caregivers Mentally, Emotionally, and Relationally. Each issue is full of tips, healthy habit reminders, best practices, and current information on available events, resources, and services.
Find Remote Out-of-School-Time (OST) Opportunities for Your Student
From the City of Philadelphia's Office of Children and Families: Students in grades 7-12 can earn money this school year by joining one of the City’s free out-of-school time (OST) programs! Program options include STEM, arts, and more -- and will help students prepare for career exploration. Every student earns a $595 stipend for participating! Virtual sessions are available. Find a program using the OST Program Locator.
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