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From the Assistant Principal's Office
Northwood School promotes the values of safety, responsibility and respect. In fact, those three categories are the underpinning of our school-wide behavior matrix. It is prudent, then, to take the time to review these expectations together so we may all be on the same page and reinforce a healthy & positive school culture. By consistently upholding these values in every aspect of our interactions—whether in the classroom, online, or within the broader school community—we ensure that Northwood remains a place where every student can thrive.
Be Respectful
Respect is the heart of all healthy relationships. How we speak, what we say, how we say it and even our body gestures all convey meaning. No matter the communication style, we teach students to interact with one another and their teachers in a way that is intentional and considerate. Respectful communication involves listening attentively, valuing others' perspectives, and responding thoughtfully. It’s not just about what is said, but also how we create an atmosphere where every individual feels heard and valued. Please continue to reinforce appropriate school and community values at home as what is allowed at home also finds its way into the school building.
Be Responsible
More and more responsibility is being given to students to utilize their school-provided resources appropriately and meaningfully both during the school day and while at home. One such resource is a school-provided laptop for students in grades 2-8. Over the last month we have seen a substantial increase in the amount of preventable laptop damage. Though each instance is unique, the costs of repairs vary greatly and are passed along to the parent/guardian if the damage is deemed as a result of inappropriate use. We have also tracked, via GoGuardian, a growing number of students using their laptops during the school day for gaming, rather than education.
As a reminder, school policy #JICL states “Students shall be responsible for the appropriate use of technology and shall use the District’s technological resources primarily for purposes related to their education…(therefore) Inappropriate use may result in a cancellation of the student’s user privileges, disciplinary action, and/or legal action in accordance with law, Board policy, and administrative regulations.” Students and their families, prior to receiving a laptop, were expected to sign the Acceptable Use Agreement (policy #JICL-R) that fully explains student expectations and liability. Please review the agreement with your child so we can ensure these devices remain in good condition and are not a distraction to the learning environment.
Be Safe
As the flu season continues, the health and safety of all of our students is always a concern. Please be sure students are coming to school dressed appropriately for the weather. Students need to come prepared with hats, gloves, jackets, and boots when there is snow on the ground or a potential weather system coming in. If your child is sick or running a temperature at all, please keep them home so that they can get healthy.
Together, these principles help us maintain a healthy school environment that supports growth, learning, and mutual respect.
Have a wonderful vacation week!
~ Sarah Gilliam
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