The Return of the Parent Mentor Program

 We are excited and proud to welcome the Parent Mentor Program back to EPS this year, (virtually) of course.  The Parent Mentor Program is a nationally recognized parent engagement model that builds deep and lasting relationships between students, teachers, and families.  This program has been a phenomenal way to involve parents within our (virtual) classroom and further connect with our community.  Thank you to Farhana Nasreen, Hiba kubaisi, Khawla Khair, Maryam Abid, and Mehzabin Patel for supporting our students, teachers, and families in this program this year.  Thank you to Ms. Wydmanski, Mrs. Albania, Ms. Kath, Ms. Hernandez, Ms. LaPata, and Ms. Sharkey for their support and involvement as well.

Day in and day out we strive to create a school community that is inclusive of all children and adults, valuing the unique talents, abilities, cultures, beliefs, and mindsets of each unique individual.  Collectively our school is a beautiful mosaic of humanity.

Remote Learning Snow Day!!!

We are better TOGETHER!

Today saw the inauguration of a new President and Vice President, and with it the peaceful transfer of power that is foundational to our democracy and the very ideals of America.  As President Biden shared, "here's the thing about life. There's no accounting for what fate will deal you. Some days when you need a hand. There are other days when we are called to lend a hand. That's how it has to be. That’s what we do for one another."

This sentiment of unity, togetherness, and care shapes our work at East Prairie every day.  It is this spirit and the collective actions it empowers that make our school community one of a kind.  Sharing our common humanity and valuing our differences, we learn from, with, and alongside one another each day.  This is an extraordinary gift and opportunity that benefits children and adults alike.

It is with this in mind that we reiterate our commitment to ensuring that every child, every parent, every family, and every community member feel safe, valued, and included at East Prairie.  That we recognize our resolute responsibility to ensure that all children learn at high levels, and have their future opened to any and all possibilities - even those they may not yet see or dream for themselves.  All the while, we will continue to openly, earnestly, and collaboratively address the very real challenges and issues facing our school, community, and world.  

At East Prairie, we know we are better together! In unity there is not only strength, but kindness, wisdom, and compassion!

From the Principal's Desk

Yesterday's events in the Capitol further demonstrate what we have long known, that rhetoric matters.  Words and ideas don’t exist in a vacuum, they inspire action and shape history.  Sadly, these events also reinforce how fiercely divided our country and politics are, highlighting the challenges of bridging the divide through reasoned discourse, debate, and compromise.  As I have repeatedly shared, educators have a professional and moral responsibility to engage our students in thoughtful analysis, discussion, and contemplation of current events and civic issues.  It is part of the responsibility entrusted to us to develop informed young people prepared to actively participate in our shared democracy for the common good.  

The following resources were shared with our staff as it relates to helping students to process and understand about moment, as well as, navigate other challenging/controversial topics.  The National Association of School Psychologists has these tips for talking to students about violence.  Key points include: affirming that students are in a safe place, creating the space to have age appropriate conversations and address concerns, checking in emotionally with students, and continuing to utilize normal routines.  Though a bit lengthier Let’s Talk: Facilitating Critical Conversations with Students recognizes that kids want and need to talk about these issues, providing a clear framework and effective strategies for doing so. 

As with all of our teaching, these dialogues and explorations are approached in an intentional and thoughtful manner, ensuring students have a well rounded and critical view on this or any issue is essential, free of each of our own personal biases. Thank you for your sustained efforts and partnership as we navigate our shared world and work together to create a safe space for students to consider, reflect, dialogue, and ultimately act upon these and all matters.

Supporting Reading Fluency At Home

 Here is the latest episode of Reading Extraordinaire with Mrs. Mehr - the second episode focuses on building reading fluency. 

Fluency is the ability to read with speed, accuracy, and proper expression.  It is an essential skill in helping students to build their reading comprehension.  This family friendly video walks through specific ways you can help to support your child’s fluency at home.

Happy New Year! | Processes, Protocols, & Safe Decision-making

Happy New Year!  We hope your past two weeks have been filled with laughter, joy, and the warmth of family!  As we head into the new year our focus remains on ensuring high levels of learning for all students, while assuring the health and wellbeing of our school community.

Please take the time to review this comprehensive video overview of our practices and policies courtesy of Nurse Christina.  This five minute video highlights information regarding COVID-19, as well as, our decision-making processes and policies related to absences and travel.  If you have recently left the state of Illinois here again is our travel policy.  As we prepare for a return to in-person learning, please be mindful of your travel and responsibility to others.  Thank you for openly communicating with our team and making choices that help to keep everyone safe.  

If you have any questions, concerns, or would like to discuss further please don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher, Dr. Schmeisser, or any member of our team.  We look forward to the new year and to the unlimited possibilities it holds!