Maximizing this time of year

The past couple of years, it seems this time of year brings a discussion of how to adapt to unexpected circumstances and limitations on education and our world. This year we are headed into a springtime that is full of potential and a return to former routines and plans.

It's important to remember that Spring can be a busy time for students. Academic studies continue to gain complexity as children approach the end of their current school year. They are being held accountable for more and more learning. They are being asked to apply that learning in a variety of ways. In grades 3-8, they will be facing state testing after Spring Break. Then take into account things like extra-curricular activities like Spring Sports and social events, and "busy" can become an understatement.

But this is not only manageable, it's a terrific time to be a child! To keep it as positive as possible takes some work. Maintaining schedules, ensuring rest, and watching nutrition can be the keys to keeping this busy time something we can all handle. At school, we reinforce routines and procedures to remind students that this is a stable place full of expectations and opportunities. In doing so, we are hoping to parallel those kinds of efforts at home so we can keep things moving forward confidently.

This year we can take a deep breath and look forward to a Spring full of learning and fun.

SPRING PICTURES THIS WEEK

Spring Pictures will be taken this week. Tuesday, March 22 photos will be taken for grades EAK-3. Then on Wednesday, they will be taken for grades 4-8. Also, just a reminder that 8th Graders will take a different type of Spring Picture. They take a promotion portrait instead of a standard Spring Picture.

PTA MAKES A DIFFERENCE! WHY NOT be a part?

I think many people have a picture of what PTA is that doesn't really match reality. We have seen PTAs represented in TV, movies, and social media as a group who demands commitment and resources from members to support a school, and it's usually painted with a lot of comedy or drama.

The truth is, your local PTA Board is a dedicated band of parents, just like you, who carve out their personal time to create fun opportunities for our school while supporting us in a variety of ways. That's the Board, the leadership. If you have the interest in that type of service, reach out! We can always use the help.

However, the average PTA member has very little responsibility on their shoulders. It boils down to paying modest dues once a school year, attending a meeting once or twice a year if you can, supporting events when you can (no requirement), and knowing that you are supporting our Chet Community.

If you have ever avoided joining PTA because you are worried about being committed moving forward, that's not a reason! Just join. Then, if you'd like, you can sit back and watch all of the fun that PTA supports knowing that you did your small part.

If you already are a member, thank you! We count on every membership we have to expand our community connection a little more.

Read on below for a couple of upcoming PTA events.