Bus pickup in Smithfield is still not where it should be. Although morning drop off was better, today, the last bus pulled out of Pleasant View Elementary School 40 minutes after dismissal. Bus numbers, additionally, had been changed, adding to the issue. Please know that the principals and I are meeting with Durham staff to address the problem.
Everyone is working hard to devise solutions to all first day issues. Please don't use Facebook to lodge a complaint, since we don't monitor social media as regularly as other communication means. Refer all bus issues to the bus company (Christine Mitchell,
cmitchell@durhamschoolservices.com, Phone: 401-349-2770). Refer other complaints to the school principal. If complaints are not resolved at these levels, contact a district administrator (https://www.smithfield-ps.org/staff).
Breakfast and lunch meals are free again this year to all students!
New Traffic Patterns Need Not Mean More Traffic!
Loops in the front of each elementary school are for parent drop-off only; bus drop offs will occur at other locations. We have put new strategies in place for reducing traffic congestion, especially at Pleasant View ES, however, parents can help with these simple steps..... (1) Give your child a kiss before leaving the house! (2) Have your child gather their belongings and put their mask on prior to getting to the drop off location. (3) Follow the directions of school staff who are there to help. (4) If your child normally rides the bus, let them ride the bus, even on the first day. (5) Have patience! The process improves after a week of school.
We're ready! All three elementary schools passed inspections and have an occupancy permit. There are many items on the punch list, however, work will be done after school hours to finish up these projects. Students will enjoy the new spaces, fresh paint, and flexible furnishings. A special thanks go to our custodial staff and their fearless leader, Angelo Mencucci, who worked through the long weekend to move boxes and furniture into buildings. Scott Barnett and his technology crew, as well, attended to every piece of hardware. Principals, whose responsibilities at the start of every school year are substantial, did double-duty to get buildings ready. Teachers, secretaries, and paraprofessionals spent many hours putting their classrooms together with creativity and care. Ahlborg, DBVW Architects, and Colliers did amazing work, which was especially concentrated these past two weeks. Our middle and high school students, as well, will see some improved spaces and new faces.
THANK YOU ALL!
Shanah tovah! The happiest of new years to all the Jewish members of our community.
The bus routes for 2021-22 are posted and can be found at this link https://www.smithfield-ps.org/page/transportation.
Smithfield's September District Newsletter is hot off the press. Keep up with all the news in Smithfield Schools - https://bit.ly/3ystWZN
Governor McKee issues Executive Order mandating masks in all public schools, for all students.
New COVID cases per week in Smithfield are rising... 12 to 18 to 31 in the last 3 weeks. Getting vaccinated is a way to protect yourself and your family and to reduce the overall spread of the virus in the community. A vaccination clinic will be held this Saturday, August 21st, from 9AM to 11AM at Smithfield High School. This is a clinic for all students, family and residents aged 12 years and older. Please pre-register for this clinic at the link below:
https://www.vaccinateri.org/appointment/en/reg/1625967890
Smithfield will be having a COVID19 Vaccination Clinic on Saturday, August 21 from 9AM to 11AM at Smithfield High School. This is a clinic for all students, family and residents aged 12 years and older. Please pre-register for this clinic at the link below:
https://www.vaccinateri.org/appointment/en/reg/1625967890
What's happening in Smithfield this week? Take a look at this newsletter to find out! https://www.smore.com/at8yq
See this link for all of the wonderful activities happening in Smithfield this week! https://www.smore.com/ndwfk
Dear Staff and Families,
We are working on plans for the 2021-2022 school year and wish to consider your thoughts on the strengths and challenges about the last school year. Please complete this simple survey. The survey will close by the end of the day on August 10th.
Survey link: https://forms.gle/nwBPUVEHVAQE2Lxg9
New blog post: The Tragedy of the Commons https://judypaolucci.edublogs.org/2021/08/02/the-tragedy-of-the-commons/
Have you thought about becoming a teacher assistant or to serve as a substitute TA? East Bay Educational Collaborative Presents: Fall Hybrid Teacher Assistant Training
This Hybrid training provides you with Teacher Assistant certification. All materials are included. This training will be presented partially in person and via Zoom. Dates: Tuesday, September 21; Wednesday, September 22; Thursday, September 23; Tuesday, September 28; Thursday, September 30; and Friday, October 1, 2021. Attendance is required at all six classes from 9:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. To register: https://ebecri.libcal.com/event/7938934
Getting Sleep-Ready for Back to School Webinar
This free webinar on Wednesday, August 4th from 7 - 8 pm features Dr. Craig Canapari from Yale who will share tips on how to help children achieve a healthful night of rest and transition from summer sleep habits to school days.
Use this link to register: https://sleep101.letssleep.org/register/
The August edition of Smithfield's District Newsletter is available on this link: https://bit.ly/3l9xeOD
SHS Restrooms Being Renovated! Two restrooms across from the auditorium are undergoing major renovations this summer to include modernized finishes, touchless fixtures, and ADA compliance. The extent of the renovations is best realized through pictures following demolition.
