Hello parents and students! The 2018-2019 school year is getting off to a great start! Kindergarten students have learned that "First Day Jitters" are completely normal and that sometimes even adults worry or become nervous when change occurs. Fifth grade students will begin to discuss the district's bullying policy as well as expectations for all students to Be the Nice Kid. Ask your 5th grader what the differences are between "Mean", "Rude" and "Bullying". Richland district 2 takes bullying very seriously and wants to ensure that a common language is used when using that particular term. Some things might hurt someone's feelings but may not be bullying.
Our 5th grade students are also learning about leadership for their upcoming Leadership blocks. These begin in October and are part of the related arts rotation. 5th grade students are given the opportunity to apply what they've learned about the 7 Habits, LIFESKILLS and Lifelong guidelines by mentoring younger students in kindergarten, 1st or 2nd grade. I am attaching a photo of Ms. Neal's homeroom class which was taken after we discussed their roles and responsibilities while also allowing them time to just "be silly". Learning should always involve an element of joy! Speaking of 7 Habits and the LIFESKILLS, attached is a copy of the schedule indicating the dates we focus on each of these individually. Ask your student about them!
This year I will be reaching out to parents to fill out a parent needs assessment for RTE's school counseling program (also attached). Please consider volunteering for the newly implemented school counseling advisory committee. We will meet approximately two times during the school year. The purpose is for various stakeholders to advise the school counselor about data, program goals, curriculum and needs.
I hope you all had a wonderful summer. Mine was restful with only a couple of mini vacations along our beautiful coast. I am a Lexington native so I also spent a lot of time on Lake Murray. I missed your kiddos and am excited to begin a new school year. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any concerns or just want to chat!
Kind regards,
Sandy Tanner, RTE School Counselor
