January 19, 2024
What a short and quick week! I hope that you were able to enjoy our two snow days!
Upcoming Important Dates:
January 22-Mobile Dentist at Oxbow (see attached forms)
January 29 - OPC Meeting @ 7 pm
February
February 1 - Talent Show Auditions (see attached flyer)
February 2 - Talent Show Auditions
February 6 - Early Release Day @ 2:37 pm
Hungry Howie’s 4 pm-8 pm
February 9 - Daddy/Daughter Dance
February 12-16 - Penny Wars
February 16 - Popcorn Friday/Hoot Shop
February 19-20 - No School (Winter Break)
February 23 - Mother/Son Dance
February 26 - OPC Meeting 7pm - Tech Lab
Maintaining a Positive School Community:
As the chilly January air swirls around us, let's bring some warmth and sunshine into our school community! Our school thrives on the shared efforts of students, teachers, and families like yours. But just like any bustling town square, sometimes things can get a little crowded and hectic, especially in the parking lot in the mornings and afternoons during dismissal.
That's why patience, empathy, and kindness are essential ingredients for a happy and welcoming school environment. Here are a few ways we can all sprinkle these magic ingredients into our daily interactions:
In the Building:
A smile and a "good morning" can go a long way! Greet each other with warmth and understanding, whether you're a seasoned parent or a nervous kindergartener dropping off their little one.
Remember, we're all on the same team. If you see someone struggling, offer a helping hand with a smile. Whether it's opening a door or holding an extra backpack, small gestures can make a big difference.
In the Parking Lot:
Patience is key! Finding a parking spot during pick-up can be tricky. Take a deep breath, remember everyone's just trying to get home, and follow the designated traffic flow. This is especially important now, as we navigate snow and a slippery parking lot.
Courtesy counts. Be mindful of pedestrians and other drivers. Let's avoid honking, using profanity, impatient gestures, and instead, prioritize safety and respect for others.
Think beyond your car. Remember, the parking lot is an extension of our school community. Treat each others with the same kindness and consideration you would show inside the building.
Please remember that our children are always listening and watching. We (and you) are their role models and mentors.
By sprinkling these tiny acts of patience, empathy, and kindness throughout our day, we can create a school community that feels safe, supported, and truly special for everyone. Let's make Oxbow a place where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued, from our youngest learners to our most seasoned volunteers.
Mobile Dentist:
The Mobile Dentist will be visiting Oxbow on Monday the 22nd. This wonderful opportunity is open to all students. Currently, we have less than 10 students registered for services. Please find the attached form in English and Spanish. Complete the form and return it on Monday. We will take any forms submitted on Monday and your child will be seen by a dental professional.
Positivity Project:
This week our school community will be focusing on the character strength of Social Intelligence. Social intelligence means you are aware of other people’s thoughts and feelings. You understand why they do things.
Social intelligence refers to a person’s ability to understand and manage interpersonal relationships. It is distinct from a person’s IQ or “book smarts.” It includes an individual’s ability to understand and act on, the feelings, thoughts, and behaviors of other people. This type of intelligence can take place “in the moment” of face-to-face conversations but also appears during times of deliberate thinking. It involves emotional intelligence and self-awareness.
Social intelligence helps individuals build relationships -- and is important to numerous aspects of a person’s life. It allows an individual to form friendships and alliances. And it assists a person against being taken advantage of. People with social intelligence can “read” other people’s faces and know what motivates them. Social intelligence builds over time and as a person ages. In this sense, it is similar to the character strength of perspective.
To practice and encourage the character strength of social intelligence with your child, please visit the Positivity Project’s P2 for Families (password: P2), where together you will watch a video, read a quote, and talk about the answers to three questions.
Cold Weather:
With the colder weather here, please send in a jacket, hat, and gloves with your child daily. Label all items with your child’s first and last name. When the weather is dry, children go outside daily for recess, even throughout the winter months. For children to play in the snow on the playground, they must have snow boots and snow pants with them.
Parent Advocate Needed:
I am currently seeking two parents/guardians of current Oxbow students who would like to become our building’s “experts” on the Bond that HVS will be seeking in May of 2024. This would include attending several meetings to learn about the specifics that would be covered by the Bond and to be able to communicate those details to families that have questions and are seeking clarity. This will help our families feel better prepared when they make their decision later this spring.
Having a parent who is knowledgeable about the upcoming Bond is a key way to inform others, answer questions, and provide clarity throughout the process.
January Oxbow News:
Enjoy your weekend! Go Lions!
Mrs. Greenleaf
#WeAreOxbow