March 31: HAS Principal's Message

 

Dear Harrison Avenue Families,

I hope you are well and had a successful second week of Learning From Home. Learning from home presents many challenges, and I am keenly aware of all that you are managing in this evolving learning environment.  There is new technology to learn and new platforms for all of us to understand. Thank you for all you are doing from home to support your children as we navigate a new way of teaching.

Our faculty and staff approach each day with enthusiasm and creativity to help students adjust to learning from home and provide consistent instruction and support. We are incredibly proud of their work as they engage with your children each day.  

The second trimester has concluded and parent/teacher conferences are coming to an end, report cards will be sent shortly.  School clubs continue virtually, and club advisors are reaching out to your children to encourage their continued participation.

The District is providing free breakfast and lunch for eligible students. We are changing and streamlining this process to make it easier for families and volunteers. Beginning Monday, March 30th meal distribution will be reduced to twice a week: Monday and Wednesday between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM.  Monday pickup includes breakfast and lunch for two days. Wednesday pickup provides breakfast and lunch for three days. If you are currently eligible but have not yet applied, please complete the request form.  If your circumstances have changed and you are in need of Food Assistance please contact your principal. All inquiries are confidential.  

If you are struggling with limited internet access, Xfinity internet service providers have opened up all of their public wifi points to anyone.  Please read if you would like further information.  There are also many hotspots located in our community that can be searched by using this map.  If you require further access to technology or a device, please complete the request form or reach out if you need further technology support. If you have questions about technology contact Brian Seligman (914-638- 3389) or (seligmanb@harrisoncsd.org).

Medical experts agree that social distancing is the most effective way to curb the spread of the Coronavirus. Experts recommend we all behave “as if” we have the virus and limit contact with others.  We encourage you to follow the social distancing guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and refrain from playdates, pick up games, group activities and other interactions outside of your family. In accordance with these safety guidelines, all school playgrounds are closed.

I miss seeing your children and the “buzz” of the school setting.  I strive to stay connected and drop in on classes to visit with your children virtually.  Reading to children is one of my favorite parts of teaching, and soon I’ll be sharing a video of one of my favorite stories with them. 

Despite our current challenges, I remain confident that as a school community, we will stay connected and engaged with one another until we are able to gather together at Harrison Avenue again soon.

Sincerely,

Valerie Hymes
Principal
Harrison Avenue Elementary School