March 31: PAR Principal's Message

 

Dear Parsons Families,

I hope this message finds you and your families well with our third week of Learning From Home underway!  Each day has brought a new smile to my face as I have been so impressed by your childrens’ hard work and our teachers’ creativity.  As I peek into everyone’s virtual classrooms I get to see so many examples of great work; I have been able to see some of our youngest students creating videos of themselves finding materials around the house to show numbers, I have seen older students create presentations to demonstrate and share their learning, and I have seen students of all ages uploading pictures and videos of themselves responding to teacher questions.

We should all feel proud of the work of our teachers and staff to provide meaningful instruction and support to our students. As time passes, learning from home continues to evolve.  Know that our teachers and leadership team are continually looking at new ways to provide meaningful instruction and interaction for students.

A few updates and reminders...Second-trimester parent/teacher conferences are coming to an end, we are working to get report cards to you shortly.  

• Meals for Eligible Students: 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 has been reduced to twice a week: Mondays and Wednesdays 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 me at your earliest convenience. All inquiries are confidential.  

• Technology Support: 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 at (914) 638-3389 or seligmanb@harrisoncsd.org

• Social Distancing: 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.

• Clubs and Activities: Our after and before school clubs will continue virtually, and club advisors will be reaching out to your children as well.

Thank you for your continued partnership, it is certainly stronger than ever. We are navigating many new experiences through distance learning together, and feel privileged to partner with you in these endeavors.  Continue to be on the lookout for special messages coming from the Parsons PTA!  The Parsons Staff and I look forward to seeing everyone moving through the halls and busy in their classrooms once again soon!  

Sincerely,

Mark Woodard
Principal