Principal’s Point………….

In the last few issues of the Chronicle I’ve written about realistic expectations for ourselves and for our children, and how our expectations affect our ability to truly enjoy life. May I share another life observation?

This past weekend I was in Kansas City with my family, celebrating my mother’s 80th birthday. There were three generations present, as well as many friends (also spanning three generations). I found it quite interesting that several times the conversation would turn to the topic of children and their impact on the adults around them. More than once I heard a parent of an older child remark about their wish that they had paid more attention to what their child had to say when s/he was young.
Young children have not yet been “domesticated” into being careful of what they say or how they say it; they are still in the innocent and honest mode. What a perfect opportunity to hear the unvarnished truth about situations, circumstances and (horrors!) ourselves. It is also a wonderful way to learn how our children see themselves, and their beliefs about who they are.

There are several strategies we can use to extend this time during which our children feel safe in being totally honest with us about their outlook on life—and isn’t that what we want and need in order to do our best for them? One strategy is to share information with them about decision-making; this adds to the sense that all members of the family/class/school are important, meaning that children are included rather than simply the recipients of adult decisions.

Another very important strategy is to keep our word—walk our talk. If we say we’re going to do something, then we need to do it. If circumstances have honestly kept us from doing it, then a simple explanation to our children of those circumstances will let them know that we honor them enough to share that information with them. It also helps them understand that it is normal for not everything happens that we want.

If we treat our children with respect, honoring them as gifts to us rather than little things who don’t know anything, we will give them the message that they are important and worthy of being heard. This will result in children who don’t feel the need to fight just to be heard or to feel that they are afterthoughts in our daily schedules.

Here’s to truly valuing our children and what they can teach us about life!Kids Korner

Shortly after the news of the tsunami in the Indian Ocean, Dylann (4C) decided to sell bracelets for $1, and send the proceeds to the Red Cross. What started as a little Track C project soon caught hold, and students throughout the school started buying bracelets. Once again the Coyote Creek community poured out their hearts and their dollars, and much money has been raised. The campaign will continue so Track B can take part if they wish. Watch for the grand total in the next Chronicle!

Readers are encouraged to submit items for this column. Often we at school do not know the accomplishments of students outside school. Please include your phone number so we can reach you if we need more information.
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  School Medication Policy
It seems that the season is here, cold and flu season that is! Here is a reminder of the School Medication Policy.
The use of medication at school is discouraged in most instances. Most medications are available in long acting form and parents are encouraged to administer such medications at home.
Only prescription medication and acetaminophen (Tylenol) may be used at school. Over-the-counter medication will not be allowed at school unless a doctor’s written authorization is provided.
Prescription medication will be released to students at school on the specific written request of the student’s parent or
guardian and with written authorization of the student’s physician. Forms are available at the school office. All prescription medication must be furnished in the original pharmacy labeled container. These requirements are state regulations.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) will be available in the health room at each elementary school. Dr. Jay Rabinowitz, a pediatrician in Parker, has developed a protocol for school personnel informing them of the conditions under which acetaminophen may be released and the proper dosage for each age level. Designated school personnel may release acetaminophin to students with the following symptoms, providing parental permission has been given:

Headache, Musculoskeletal pain
Toothache Dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps)
Fever (100 F. or above) with the understanding that
the student will be going home.

Permission for administration of acetaminophen is on the student registration form. You will be notified if your child has taken acetaminophen during the school day.

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Lost & Found
Check our Lost and Found barrels near Door #4 (by the cafeteria). There are many lunch boxes and miscellaneous coats and jackets to be found there!

Field Trips

Feb. 25 4 A & B Museum of Nature & Science
April 13 5th & 6th ACD Paramount Theatre
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