We anticipate that the weather next week is going to warm up and we will be able to have the students go outside for recess. We believe that it's important for students to have the opportunity to play outside everyday, whenever the weather cooperates. Because there is so much snow on the playground, we have been talking and planning for how we can have students stay safe and warm while playing outside and allowing them to have fun in the snow. Here is what our plan is for this upcoming week:
- Like every other day, if it's not raining and the wind chill/"feels like" temperature is 25 degrees or above, we will go outside for recess.
- If students bring and WEAR a warm jacket, a hat, gloves/mittens, and boots, they will be allowed to play in the snowy areas of the playground. In order for students to be warm and comfortable, all of the above items are required in order to play in the snow (especially boots). Snow pants are NOT mandatory.
- Students that do not bring and WEAR a warm jacket, a hat, gloves/mittens, and boots will be able to play on the blacktop. Students that do not want to play in the snow can also choose to play on the blacktop. We understand that some students will not want to play in the snow and that’s perfectly OK.
- The expectation is that all students will keep the snow on the ground, but they will be able to play in the snow, build with it, create shapes on the ground, etc.
- Each grade level’s schedule is a little different, so your child’s teacher may contact you about some details that are specific for their grade level.
We will try this approach this coming week. If it works well, we will continue as long as there is snow on the ground. If the approach doesn't work well and students do not play safely in the snow (e.g. use snow to hurt others), we will go back to only playing on the blacktop until the snow has melted.
Practicing with your child to help them put on and take off their gear independently
One of the biggest challenges to playing in the snow is the amount of time it takes students to put on and take off their winter gear. Teachers are not able to assist every single student in putting on and taking off their items. It will be VERY helpful if families can practice putting on and taking off winter gear with your child at home to help them be independent.
Families in need of winter coats
If your family could use a winter coat for your child, please reach out to Mr. Paul Barrette (
pbarrette@norton.k12.ma.us) or Mrs. Kristi Fernandes (
kfernandes@norton.k12.ma.us) and we will work with you to find a coat that fits your child. We will keep all communications confidential and we're happy to work with any JCS family.
Additional settings for Safari Browser.
