Monday, December 7, 2009

Parent Friendly Survey

Our elementary staff is always looking for feedback in regards to our performance as a school. I feel we are continually striving for improvement in all areas. To that end, we have created a short survey for parents to give us feedback on our school's strength areas, and areas of potential improvement. If you did not receive our e-mail last week you can access the survey on our elementary website or directly at http://www.delano.k12.mn.us/sitepages/pid3080.php

We thank you for taking time to complete this survey and giving us valuable feedback on ways to better serve your child and family.

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Successful Parent-Teacher Conferences

Last Tuesday concluded our Fall Parent/Teacher conferences. After each fall and spring conference period, I ask our teachers to give me their conference parent attendance percentages. This year 98% of our K-4 parents attended their child's conference. This is an outstanding percentage, and it shows the dedication and interest of our parents in their
child's education!

Here are a few thoughts for parents "after the conference."
Talk to your child- Sit down with your child and tell him or her what you and the teacher discussed. Emphasize the positive things the teacher said.
Follow-up- If there were important issues that need to be dealt with, such as finding a tutor or permission for a social group with the school counselor or social worker, make sure to follow up with the teacher soon after the conference. Time is of the essence.
Follow through- Once you know what you can do to help your child succeed in school, make sure to actually do it. It's understandable that finding the time might be difficult, but remember your child needs you.
Take time to volunteer- Classroom teachers are always looking for parent volunteer assistance in the classroom. Your presence in your child's classroom will show them your dedication to their education.

Monday, November 23, 2009

Family Involvment Events

Mark you calendar for the upcoming Parent Involvement Events at DES:

Father's Reading Every Day (FRED) Night on December 14th:
Calling all dads with children in grades K-2. We invite you to an evening of reading and connecting with your child during our FRED evening. You will have to opportunity to listen to stories presented by other dad's and community members. You will leave with a better understanding of the value of reading and involvement in your child's education. A free pizza dinner will provided along with free books for each child registered. Registration forms will be coming home soon in K-2 student folders. A special thank you to the Delano Lions and Coborns for their assistance in sponsoring this event.

Just Say Yes to No Parenting Program: How to Raise Happy, Self-Reliant Kids

Our school social worker Melissa Scott will be offering the Say Yes to No Parenting Program to all Pre-K to 12th grade Delano Families.

The program is based on two of Dr. David Walsh’s books< No: Why Kids Need to Hear It” and “Ways Parents Can Say It and Why Do They Act That Way? The Program is targeted for ALL adults that spend time with children, infants through adolescents. There is an epidemic of Discipline Deficit Disorder sweeping the country. Symptoms include disrespect, a need for instant gratification, a sense of entitlement, self-centeredness, and out of control consumerism. Dr. Walsh teaches how the “Yes culture” undermines our children’s self discipline, a trait that is the key ingredient for children’s success and happiness. Get down-to-earth advice that can be put into practice immediately and learn effective strategies for children to grow up happy and healthy.

For dates and registration information, please go to www.delanocommunited.com

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Sock Hop Night a Hit

The annual October Elementary Sock Hop was a fun night for all! What a great way to spend a rainy Friday evening, than to spend an evening watching your elementary student dance to the Chicken Dance, play games, get their face painted, and even get their nails done!

It was wonderful to see so many families attend this event. Many studies have shown that a child's school success can directly correlate to a families involvement in their education. We want to continue to to provide more low cost opportunities like the Sock Hop for our families. Please feel free to e-mail me with an idea for a future family event at dschuler@delano.k12.mn.us

I would like to thank the DES PIE Sock Hop chairpersons Sarah Baker and Angie Green for their time in organizing this event. Thank you to the parents and over twenty DES staff who volunteered their time as well. See you at our next family event!

Thursday, October 8, 2009

Schuler's Scoop

Welcome to the first edition of Schuler's Scoop. I will be using my blog to communicate what is happening at Delano Elementary. I would welcome your feedback and I hope you enjoy learning more about our school.

Critter and Company Lyceum

On Wednesday our students had the oppertunity to view the third installment of Critter's and Company lyceum. Each year we have contracted with Greg Olson of Critters and Company to provide our staff and students with a 50 minute presentation that uses live animals to show students how animals relate to one another, and how we relate to one another as human beings. Greg Olson uses animals because it allows him to connect with students when their defenses are down. By using animals, he is able to deliver a message to students in a way that they will likely remember. This year's theme was "Attitudes That Make A Difference" The animals that were featured in the presentation were a Red Lored Amazon, Red-Tailed Hawk, Wallaby, Tortoise, Snake, Dove, and Hedgehogs.

In past years we have had presentations on"Friends and Choices" and "Teasing: Harassment in Disguise." Please take a minute at home to ask your child about the presentation and what they saw and heard. If you would like more info on the program please visit www.crittersandcompany.com