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Suffolk News-Herald Wednesday, August 22, 2018
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Educators suggest preparing for kindergarten early BY KEONA FRASIER INTERN
As the back-to-school season approaches, parents may wonder how to prepare their students to embark on the journey of kindergarten. Educators say that parents could start with introducing children to the elements of school before the first day. One concern many parents have is whether their child will experience separation anxiety because of the abrupt change in environment; however, it’s possible to get ahead of those uneasy feelings by allowing your child to get acquainted with school personnel and the facility shortly before the school year begins. Attending open house is one way to break the ice, but there are also other opportunities for young students to build familiarity. “If you know that your child is an anxious child anyway, I would suggest that they come to the school now, while the schools are empty. Ask the principal, or someone in the office, to take you and the child on a tour of the school or walking around in the building, going on the playground with the parent,” said Suffolk Public
Schools Parent Relations Facilitator Bonnie Maki. There are specific areas that teachers will work on with students once they are adjusted to the classroom environment, including reading, writing, behavioral and motor skills. While there are local programs designed to teach these new concepts, parents can sit down with their child for the remainder of the summer and help them practice the alphabet, counting numbers and identifying items around the house. “I think the biggest thing for students going into kindergarten is reading to them every day. Making sure they are able to not only hear their parents reading to them but seeing it and following along. We have three Early Start programs where teachers everyday are not only reading to them out loud, but they’re identifying letters,” said the principal of LEAP Elementary Summer School, Barbara Tidd. In addition to preparing children for classroom skills, socialization is an essential piece of school readiness. According to Early Childhood Research Quarterly, children’s skill levels in social and emotional adjustment in
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Working with soon-to-be kindergarteners at home can help prepare them for the school atmosphere.
kindergarten may be an important factor in determining school success, among other factors. Programs, such as Head Start and pre-kindergarten, allow children to meet and socialize before enrolling in elementary school. There are, however, other local opportunities for kids to communicate with each other. Parents can check the nearest library or recreational center for child-friendly events and
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camps. Preparing for a child’s first school year also means gathering school supplies. Most school websites have lists with required materials for each grade level, and along with the lists may
be additional instructions for specific items. Some stores will have supply lists available during the back-to-school season as well. Kindergarten is the first big scholastic milestone for students, and a well-
prepared transition could mark the beginning of a successful academic career. More information and resources for parents with incoming kindergarteners can be found on Suffolk Public Schools websites.
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Promote healthy weight starting with school lunch Although there are a variety of theories behind the growing obesity problem plaguing North American adults and children, the most consistent findings point to caloric intake as the culprit. Here’s a simple equation to get to the root of the problem: Calories eaten > calories spent = weight gain. According to National Health Examination Surveys, adult obesity trends in the United States between 1976 and 2014 indicate the percentage of the adult population classified as obese has roughly doubled to more than 38 percent in the last three decades. Children may be learning eating habits from their parents, potentially contributing to rising obesity rates in children as well. Recent findings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate one in five school-aged children and young people in the United States is obese. In Canada, the Public Health Agency says roughly one in seven children is obese. Teaching children healthy eating habits starts at home and can extend to what students are given to eat while at school. The Center for Science in the Public Interest says schools across the coun-
try are working hard to improve school nutrition. Here’s how parents and school districts can help make school lunches more nutritious and delicious and lower in calories. 4Control snack intake. The U.S. Department of Agriculture says that more than one-fourth of kids’ daily caloric intake comes from snacking. Choosing smarter snacks may help reduce overeating. Good snacks can include grain products that contain 50 percent or more whole grains by weight; snacks in which the primary ingredient is a fruit, a vegetable, dairy product or lean protein; snacks that are a combination food that contain at least a 1⁄4 cup of fruits or vegetables; and foods that contain no more than 200 calories. 4Read nutritional information. When selecting foods for school lunches, parents should read the nutritional information to make sure they know exactly what they are feeding their children. Select foods that are low in saturated fats and cholesterol and high in fiber and nutrient-rich fruits, vegetables, grains and legumes. 4Go with water. Rethinking beverage choices can help control
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Packing a healthy lunch and letting students get school lunch when healthier options are offered can help promote good eating habits.
kids’ caloric intake. Many people don’t realize just how many calories beverages add to their daily intake. Even a six-ounce, 100-percent apple juice can include as many as 96 calories. Sodas and other soft drinks pack a hefty caloric punch. Water, seltzer and unsweetened iced tea are healthy beverage options. If milk is the go-to beverage, choose a reduced-fat version. 4Introduce new foods. Children can be notoriously picky eaters, but
with patience and perseverance, parents can introduce new, healthy foods at lunchtime. Yogurt, hummus and salsa are healthy and can add flavor to vegetables and fruit. When making sandwiches, exchange refined breads
for whole-grain varieties. Choose lean protein sources, and go heavy on vegetables and fruits for natural fiber, which will create feelings of satiety. 4Read the school menu. Let children indulge in ordering from
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the school menu when healthy options are featured. Urge them to try something unexpected, rather than sticking to chicken nuggets or pizza days. —Metro Creative Content
Our newly renovated Benjamin Vaughan gymnasium will continue to be a valuable part of our campus, serving as a gymnasium for our lower school PE classes and auxiliary gym for athletic practices.
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Community service teaches responsibility to students BY KEONA FRASIER INTERN
For high-school students, volunteering is an opportunity to have a positive impact on their community while gaining valuable skills that can transfer well to college and the workforce. Many institutions have begun implementing service learning into classrooms; in fact, Suffolk Public Schools currently has a 50-hour community service graduation requirement. According to Suffolk Public Schools, the requirement was put in place to promote civic responsibility. The website lists opportunities and service dates. Deciding on an organization to work with can take a lot of consideration yet also serve as a great chance to become educated about local causes and programs. Many non-profit organizations have various departments that house a specific set of skills. Researching each department’s responsibilities offers a way to find a role that enhances both civic engagement and professional development. Finding a volunteer opportunity that piques your interest can be beneficial in choosing a career avenue. Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts D e v e l o p m e n t
Coordinator Susan Stone says that student volunteers, whether initially interested in the arts or just looking for someplace to volunteer, leave with a greater appreciation for art. “Many times, they do come with an interest already. Sometimes it’s just, ‘I really need to get this volunteer service done; can you help me with that?’ But, they leave with an interest that they didn’t have prior to coming.” Community service is known to be an impressive addition to a resume. Numerous scholarships, college applications and internship guidelines require that students list prior volunteer experience or recent community service projects. According to the Tidewater Community College career resources website, volunteer work can be included in the work experience section of a resume. There are also chances for advancement in some programs, which speaks to one’s ambition. Longterm volunteer experience could be the first step to an internship or even a permanent position. Along with experience in an organization, volunteer events are a place to network with potential employers or mentors, in addition to becoming a mentor to other members of the community.
Volunteering at a nonprofit organization, in many cases, will present opportunities to utilize a hobby or passion for charitable causes. Some organizations may entirely focus on one area such as environmental, healthrelated, animal or humanitarian. Even within specific causes, volunteers can spend time doing things they enjoy. If particularly interested in reading or education, a library or literature program is a great place to start volunteering. The Suffolk Public Library, for instance, has a volunteer program that holds various service events where participants can engage with other community members. “They get to see what a free service that is supported by the community Suffolk Public Schools students can find volunteer opportunities on the division's website. and for the community looks like. So, we hope that the volunteers reflect back on that and see the importance of the organiNew Mobile App for Suffolk Public Schools zation and the community impact that it has,” said Available for Everyone Suffolk Library Outreach Program Services Stay in touch with Suffolk Public Schools. Manager Megan Mulvey. Download from the app store. Different organizations have varying requirements and dates that can • Convenience on the Go … One-stop spot be found the spsk12.net to receive emergency no�fica�ons, calendar website, along with a community service handevents, school menus, and news. book. For more specific information about volun• Personalized Communication … Select teer opportunities, view which school(s) you want to access. the online organization list and contact corre• Quick Access … Phone a school or connect sponding personnel. to its website with a touch.
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Tips for using a college syllabus BY KEONA FRASIER INTERN
High school students often are told quite colorful stories about college standards and the varying levels of work it takes to be a successful student. Eager to start the semester and not sure what’s next? Well, here is some information on how to understand your course syllabus and get ahead of your workload. The course syllabus is a guide that outlines the professor’s contact information, methods of instruction, required texts, course scheduling, class policies and other information pertaining to course expectations. This content can be used as means to have a successful semester and measure up to the professor’s expectations. College bookstores are a standard way to find out which textbooks are required for a class; however, the syllabus will also list course materials and sometimes will include helpful tips about alternative places to find certain books for more affordable prices. Professors may also include acceptable older editions that may cost less or could be found in a library. When it comes to completing assignments, checking the syllabus for deadlines and start-
The syllabus will be a tool that holds a general idea of the type of course being taken and the type of instruction to expect.
ing to view the chapter early can allow ample time to take in the information, and if needed it gives enough time to seek additional instruction on the subject. There might indeed be areas listed on the course syllabus where you may have to put forth more effort. Signing up for a tutoring service or checking out online study resources will give you the upper hand on particularly tricky sections. Classes and school work are commonly viewed to be overwhelming, but students of all majors and classifications find certain parts of the semester busier than others. Midterms and finals are often the busiest times academically for college students and faculty. Reviewing your course syllabus and checking for any assignments or projects that are due around the time of those major events would ensure time for both preparation and prioritizing. Also, this would be a chance
to work on overcoming procrastination habits for those who struggle with completing assignments well before deadlines. Another component of a course syllabus that holds high importance is the grading scale. This section is useful for estimating the semester’s outcome. Some work will take up a higher percentage of the overall grade and can be an indicator of which assignment scores can boost your average. Towards the end of the semester, students should get ready for final exam week. Some finals include information that can be found in previous assignments and tests, while others can be in the form METRO of a written essay, pre- Learning how to use the college syllabus can ease the transition of college students. sentation or other project. This section of the syllabus is where you can look to find general information on how the final Annual Public Notice will be administered and Career and Technical Education a key to what information should be reviewed. The syllabus will be a tool that holds a general idea of the type of Suffolk Public Schools’ Department of Career and Technical Education offers a variety course being taken and of career and technical programs to all students at the middle and high school levels. the type of instruction to The program areas include the following: expect. Making the transition from working on a Agriculture Education Health and Medical Sciences high school curriculum to Business and Information Technology Marketing college-level work takes Career Connections Technology Education much adjustment and hard Family and Consumer Sciences Trade and Industrial Education work; nevertheless, it is an exciting introduction to For more information about Career and Technical Education, Call 757-925-6750. the world of higher educaSuffolk Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national tion.
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Get schooled on education savings plans
Accounts to pay for college or even private high schools can be a smart way for parents to prepare for their children’s futures. Not every account is the same, and certain savings accounts could affect financial aid eligibility and taxes. It is in parents’ and students’ best interests to educate themselves on the various education savings plans available to them — and which ones make the most sense for their families. Families should do their research and work with professionals who understand the subtleties of school savings plans. For example, according to Cappex.com, a college information site, students’ income and savings have a larger, more negative impact on the availability of financial aid than the portion of their parents’ assets factored into the equation.
Students with sizeable savings accounts in their name may end up adversely affecting their financial aid eligibility. A financial advisor and loan expert can advise families on these confusing financial facts. 4529 College Savings Plan: 529 accounts are a popular education savings plan. They operate in a similar fashion to IRA and 401(k) plans in that savings for education are earned tax-free through investment opportunities. SallieMae says 529 plans are offered by states or educational institutions under Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code. These taxadvantaged plans generally have no income limitations and high contribution limits. The usage of funds in 529 accounts are subject to regulations. 4Coverdell Education
Savings Account: Coverdell accounts are versatile in that they enable the money to be spent for elementary through college education, which is a larger range than other plans. This is another tax-free plan when used for school purposes. Coverdell contributions are capped at $2,000 per year, and they’re only available to families below a specified income level, says the resource SavingforCollege. com. 4Uniform Gifts to Minors Act Account: These accounts are not traditionally designed for education but can be established to offer gift assets to minors. The custodian of the account can sell the assets for the child’s benefit at any time, and once the child reaches 18 or 21, recipients can use the funds in whatever manner they choose. However, UGMA may affect
financial aid eligibility. 4Roth IRA: Parents can open up a Roth IRA in their child’s name once the child begins earning income. Even though there are penalties to taking earnings out before the age of 59.5, exceptions include purchasing a first home or qualified education expenses. A Roth IRA isn’t subjected to legal and administrative fees that can come with trusts, which are another savings avenue. 4Canadian Education Savings Grant: With a CESG, parents can save for their child’s education by opening up a Registered Education Savings Plan. The government then matches the money up to a certain percentage and deposits it into the child’s RESP. The extra funds the government deposits are called the CESG. —Metro Creative Content
Did You Know? The terms “college” and “university” are often used interchangeably, but there are distinctions between the terms. Specifications may differ based on where a school is located, but generally speaking colleges offer only associate and bachelor’s degrees while universities offer those degrees as well as graduate degrees. Colleges may be private institutions that tend to have small student
bodies, while universities boast more sizable enrollments. Universities also tend to be home to vast libraries and may feature teaching schools with major research projects being conducted at given times. According to the education resource CollegeRank, in order for a college to receive university status, it must first meet a few requirements. A university has the financial resources to support its graduate and
professional programs and has the facilities and equipment required to meet the needs of students in those programs. The school also must be accredited and, depending on the location, possibly licensed and incorporated within that area. Despite the differences between colleges and universities, many students find they can achieve their academic goals whether they attend a college or university.
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While a jar of change and bills is better than nothing, options exist for significant college savings through investments.
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Tutoring benefits and how to find a tutor that fits Children tend to learn at their own pace, and certain subjects may challenge them more than others. In many instances, students can benefit from working with tutors. Tutors can be very effective. Children who work with tutors and then see their grades improve may develop greater confidence and feel less anxious about going to school or taking tests. Without intervention like tutoring, at-risk students (those who are not meeting academic standards) may not pass their classes, and some may face year-end retention or experience difficulty keeping up in the next grade. The National Tutoring Association says students at all grade levels participating in tutorial programs improve their reading performance and can achieve significant cognitive gains. Tutoring can be the answer for students affected by inconsistent delivery of classroom content. For example, when families move, students may be forced to catch up in a new school where teachers may have different styles than students’ previous teachers.
Students who have missed classroom time due to illness or injury may face similar difficulties. Sometimes children struggle because they have difficulty processing or remembering their lessons. In such instances, a fresh approach through one-on-one tutoring may be necessary. Parents and students have different tutoring options at their disposal. Some services may be offered through the school system at no extra charge. Pull-out instruction during the day or before or after school might be part of such services. Private tutors, academic coaches, peer tutors, online tutoring and home tutoring are other options. Depending on need, budget and comfort levels, families can explore these and other options at their disposal. The NTA says families should not discount peer tutoring. Peer tutoring is a cost-effective way to improve performance. This type of tutoring also can contribute to students’ social and cognitive development. According to Care.com, which helps consumers find tutors, caretakers
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Tutoring can help struggling students gain confidence and skills.
and babysitters, one can expect to pay an average $10 to $15 for a peer high school student tutor. Comparatively, a private tutor, whether it’s a professional teacher or a tutor hired through a service, may charge as much as $75 per hour. Parents should contact their children’s
schools for information about tutoring programs. Schools typically keep lists of tutors or tutoring programs. Examine credentials and seek recommendations prior to hiring a tutor to get a feel for the person and his or her teaching philosophy. Certified tutors also can be found
by visiting www.ntatutor. com. Keep in mind that it isn’t enough for the tutor to know the subject matter. He or she also has to relate to your child. According to the tutoring firm Test Prep Authority, motivation plays a key role in the success or failure of a students’ work
with tutors. Motivation may be compromised if the tutor and student do not connect. Tutors also should know how to present materials in ways similar to how it is being taught in school so that lessons are in sync. —Metro Creative Content
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Help kids calm first-day jitters
The first day of school can be an exciting time, especially for children who have never before attended school. But even youngsters excited about the first day may also experience some jitters. Such nerves are normal, and parents can help kids calm those jitters in various ways. 4Talk about the first day as it approaches. A child’s first day of school is a milestone, and parents may do various things to commemorate the occasion. The excitement leading up to the first day can spark kids’ enthusiasm, but it also may lead to some anxiety about the unknown. Parents can quell those fears by discussing the first day as it approaches. Explain why the first day is so special, encouraging youngsters to share their feelings. If kids express fears about their first day, parents can explain they felt similarly on their first day of school but quickly adjusted.
4Let kids choose their own clothes. Parents may be tempted to buy special outfits for their children for the first day of school. But kids who are jittery about their first day may calm down if allowed to choose their own attire for the big day. A favorite T-shirt or outfit might be just the thing to comfort kids feeling a bit nervous about their first day of school. 4Get a head start on your morning routine. As summer winds down, begin acclimating children to the morning routine they can expect when the school year begins. One to two weeks before the first day of school, start waking children up when they will need to be up for school. Kids who are accustomed to the morning routine may be more calm on their first day of school because of their familiarity with their new schedule. Going cold turkey on the first day of school
may make kids less enthusiastic about attending school. 4Attend school orientation events and plan some play dates in advance of the first day. Seeing familiar faces might make kids forget all about their jitters when they arrive at school on the first day. Inquire about school orientation events and attend as many of those sessions as possible. If encouraged to do so, take kids along so they can meet prospective classmates. Arrange for play dates with those classmates in advance of the first day so kids have a few recognizable faces their own age come the first day of school. 4Start the day off on the right foot. The night before the first day of school, make sure kids’ outfits are clean, their supplies are packed and ready to go and their lunch is made. The less parents have to rush around on the morning of the first day of school, the calmer kids are likely to be.
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Icebreaker ideas Parents and educators can sometimes underestimate children’s anxiety over the dawn of a new school year. Many students feel nervous when wondering if their teachers will be nice or if they will make new friends. These worries may be compounded by the return to routine and the end of an enjoyable period of rest and relaxation. To help students transition to the classroom with fewer worries, teachers and parents may want to initiate ice breakers and other stress-reducing interactions. Here are some ideas. School selfie Students can craft “school selfies” on a piece of paper using a smartphone image template. This selfie illustration will give the class key facts about each student and present an interesting, creative and enjoyable way for students to get to know one another. Student word search Word searches are entertaining and educational tools that can be put to use in the classroom.
Parents or teachers can create word searches featuring the first names of all the students in the class. Children often enjoy searching for their own names, and then they can help others, opening up lines of communication. Word searches also can be customized for any subject. Therefore, if student names aren’t desired, the theme can be classroom items or school terms. Personal introductions Students may worry about teachers mispronouncing their names or using a full name instead of a nickname. Rather than a traditional roll call, teachers can encourage students to introduce themselves to classmates, using their preferential name and including a brief synopsis of their interests and what makes them unique. Teachers also can initiate other ice-breakers by giving students a sheet with various questions, which students then have to complete by asking around among the other students. For example, “Who has a pet fish?” or “Find someone who has blue eyes.”
Did You Know? According to the Gap Year Association, a gap year is a year “on” during which students, typically after graduating from high school, do not go directly to college. While no rules govern gap years, students who take them typically spend their year emphasizing experiential education. Some students challenge their comfort zones and make sacrifices during their gap years that they would not necessarily make if they
went directly from high school to college. Many students take gap years because they are unsure of what they want to study in college, and such students typically use the gap year to explore potential majors and career paths that might be available to them once they earn degrees in those fields. Other students may take gap years to volunteer, feeling that a year of service is both a great way to give back and to bet-
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ter understand the world beyond the one in which they grew up. Burnout from the competitive pressures of high school is another reason many students take gap years. The Gap Year Association urges students considering gap years to do their research regarding the opportunities available to them during the year so their year is truly transformative and not merely a year to pass time without the pressures of school.
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