I wish all of you a blessed Christmas holiday! Enjoy time with your family members and friends during the holiday break. I hope every student and teacher will come back to school after the holidays feeling rested and motivated to make the most of the second semester. Also please be safe during your holiday traveling and playing. We want everyone back in good shape on January 5th!
The second nine weeks grade reports will be sent out on January 5. If parents or guardians have any questions or concerns over their child's grades, they should call the school office at (205)280-2820 to set up an appointment with the teacher.
Friday, December 17, 2010
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING
Carbon monoxide is an invisible and odorless gas, and is produced when
burning any fuel, such as gasoline, propane, natural gas, oil, wood or
charcoal. It can be a silent killer, which causes illness, and possibly
death, by decreasing the amount of oxygen present in the body.
Last year, a family of six in Baldwin County were treated and released
for accidental carbon monoxide poisoning, and two women in the Silver
Hill area were killed in their home from exposure to this lethal gas.
Young children are especially vulnerable to the effects of carbon
monoxide because of their smaller bodies. Children process carbon
monoxide differently than adults, according to experts at Children's
Hospital, and may be more severely affected by it, and may show symptoms
sooner. And while Carbon Monoxide poisoning is more common during the
winter, it is not only limited to cold weather months, but can happen
any time of the year.
"Carbon Monoxide, the leading cause of poisoning deaths, is not just a
winter time hazard; it is a year round hazard," said Ann Slattery,
Supervisor of the Regional Poison Control Center at Children's Hospital.
"No matter the season of the year, when I hear complaints of headache,
nausea and vomiting, I think carbon monoxide."
You won't know that you have a carbon monoxide leak, Slattery says,
without a working detector. If you burn any fuels for heat or cooking,
be sure that you have a working carbon monoxide detector and deter this
silent killer.
Experts from Children's hospital offer these simple safety tips to help
protect your family:
* Know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, which include
headache, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and confusion. In severe cases, the
person may lose consciousness or die. CO poisoning can often be mistaken
for other illnesses, such as the flu and usually more than one person in
the household will suffer symptoms at the same time.
* Install a CO alarm outside every sleeping area and on every
level of your home.
* Place CO alarms at least 15 feet away from every fuel-burning
appliance to reduce the number of nuisance alarms.
* Test alarms every month and replace them every five years.
* Make sure alarms can be heard when you test them and practice
an escape plan with your entire family.
* Have all gas, oil or coal burning appliances inspected by a
technician every year to ensure they are working correctly and are
properly ventilated.
* Never use a stove for heating.
* Do not use a grill, generator or camping stove inside your
home, garage or near a window. Never leave a car, SUV, or motorcycle
engine running inside a garage, even if the garage door is open.
If your CO alarm goes off, follow these steps:
* Get everyone out of the house as quickly as possible into
fresh air. Then call for help from a neighbor's home or a cell phone
outside of your home.
* If someone is experiencing CO poisoning symptoms, call 911 for
medical attention.
* If no one is experiencing symptoms, call the fire department.
They will let you know when it is safe to re-enter your home.
For more information on this and other children's health and safety
issues, visit our web site at www.chsys.org
burning any fuel, such as gasoline, propane, natural gas, oil, wood or
charcoal. It can be a silent killer, which causes illness, and possibly
death, by decreasing the amount of oxygen present in the body.
Last year, a family of six in Baldwin County were treated and released
for accidental carbon monoxide poisoning, and two women in the Silver
Hill area were killed in their home from exposure to this lethal gas.
Young children are especially vulnerable to the effects of carbon
monoxide because of their smaller bodies. Children process carbon
monoxide differently than adults, according to experts at Children's
Hospital, and may be more severely affected by it, and may show symptoms
sooner. And while Carbon Monoxide poisoning is more common during the
winter, it is not only limited to cold weather months, but can happen
any time of the year.
"Carbon Monoxide, the leading cause of poisoning deaths, is not just a
winter time hazard; it is a year round hazard," said Ann Slattery,
Supervisor of the Regional Poison Control Center at Children's Hospital.
"No matter the season of the year, when I hear complaints of headache,
nausea and vomiting, I think carbon monoxide."
You won't know that you have a carbon monoxide leak, Slattery says,
without a working detector. If you burn any fuels for heat or cooking,
be sure that you have a working carbon monoxide detector and deter this
silent killer.
Experts from Children's hospital offer these simple safety tips to help
protect your family:
* Know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, which include
headache, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and confusion. In severe cases, the
person may lose consciousness or die. CO poisoning can often be mistaken
for other illnesses, such as the flu and usually more than one person in
the household will suffer symptoms at the same time.
* Install a CO alarm outside every sleeping area and on every
level of your home.
* Place CO alarms at least 15 feet away from every fuel-burning
appliance to reduce the number of nuisance alarms.
* Test alarms every month and replace them every five years.
* Make sure alarms can be heard when you test them and practice
an escape plan with your entire family.
* Have all gas, oil or coal burning appliances inspected by a
technician every year to ensure they are working correctly and are
properly ventilated.
* Never use a stove for heating.
* Do not use a grill, generator or camping stove inside your
home, garage or near a window. Never leave a car, SUV, or motorcycle
engine running inside a garage, even if the garage door is open.
If your CO alarm goes off, follow these steps:
* Get everyone out of the house as quickly as possible into
fresh air. Then call for help from a neighbor's home or a cell phone
outside of your home.
* If someone is experiencing CO poisoning symptoms, call 911 for
medical attention.
* If no one is experiencing symptoms, call the fire department.
They will let you know when it is safe to re-enter your home.
For more information on this and other children's health and safety
issues, visit our web site at www.chsys.org
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Congratulations to our 2010-2011 VHS Spelling Bee Champ!
On December 3, 2010, Verbena High School held its school spelling bee. Thirteen students from grades 4-8 took part in the spelling bee. The winner of the spelling bee was Alana Delariva from Mrs. Hauswirth's fourth grade. First runner-up was Blake Nelson from Mrs. Smith's fifth grade. Other participants included Jared McKinnon-4th grade, Brandon Wells-4th grade, Desha Sanders-4th grade, Kelsey Crumpton-5th grade, Jonathan Tomas-5th grade, Garrett Wells-5th grade, Josie Adams-6th grade, Brittany Ann Kyles-6th grade, Jacob Cleckler-7th grade, Dillon Walker-7th grade, and Karla Santos-8th grade. All of the students did a great job, but Alana came out on top! She won with the word "serenely". Congratulations to Alana and runner-up Blake Nelson!
Friday, December 3, 2010
Bullyproof Your Child - 4 Surprising Ways to Keep the Epidemic of Nastiness from Hurting Your Child
Everyone has mean kids on the brain, and no wonder - recent data show that one in four children reports being a victim of bullying. Home used to be a safe haven, but thanks to technology, a barbed text or tweet can reach a child anywhere, anytime. So what can you do? A lot, says Sela Gaglia, director of the organization Challenge Day, which helps kids deal with social pressures (it was the focus of MTV's recent antibullying reality series, If You Really Knew Me). What she's learned from experience:
* One of the best things to do? Play 20 questions.
Check in with your kids often and you'll be far more likely to spot a bullying problem early. And don't overreact. "When kids know you'll respond calmly, they'll share the scary things," says Gaglia, who regularly asks her 11-year-old son these questions: What's happening on the playground? Do you need support on anything? How can I be a better mom? If you do notice a problem, intervene as soon as it looks like a pattern and not an isolated event, she advises. But talk to your child's teacher or the principal, not the bully's parents. "There's no accountability - and you don't know how they'll react. And remember, your intention is to create a safe environment, not to prove that your kid is right."
* Bullies back away from confident kids.
"Bullies typically avoid a self-assured child because they won't get the scared reaction they want," Gaglia says. Your kid won't be fun to pick on if you encourage him to ignore - or even laugh at - a bully's intimidation tactics. And urge him to ask a teacher for support. "The bully will quickly realize that this kid is too much trouble to bother with."
* Bullies do change.
Challenge Day runs more than 1,000 antibullying programs a year, and 99 percent of the time, Gaglia sees the bullies apologize. Frequently, they also turn into student leaders. "I've watched kids become peer counselors or spearhead programs to help new students transition at school," she says. "Bullies don't realize they can use their power for good until someone wakes them up to it." A great wake-up call? Suggest that a bully be assigned a position of responsibility, like bus monitor or teacher's helper.
* You can keep your child from bullying others.
One of the most common causes of bullying behavior is turmoil at home, says Gaglia - especially divorce. During or after a divorce, "kids often stop talking to their parents about how they're feeling," she explains, "because they're afraid to upset them even more. Instead, they lash out at other kids." You can't prevent tough times from happening, of course, but by making sure your child gets all his emotions out in the open, you can help him from becoming a Draco Malfoy at school.
-Erin Zammett Ruddy
* One of the best things to do? Play 20 questions.
Check in with your kids often and you'll be far more likely to spot a bullying problem early. And don't overreact. "When kids know you'll respond calmly, they'll share the scary things," says Gaglia, who regularly asks her 11-year-old son these questions: What's happening on the playground? Do you need support on anything? How can I be a better mom? If you do notice a problem, intervene as soon as it looks like a pattern and not an isolated event, she advises. But talk to your child's teacher or the principal, not the bully's parents. "There's no accountability - and you don't know how they'll react. And remember, your intention is to create a safe environment, not to prove that your kid is right."
* Bullies back away from confident kids.
"Bullies typically avoid a self-assured child because they won't get the scared reaction they want," Gaglia says. Your kid won't be fun to pick on if you encourage him to ignore - or even laugh at - a bully's intimidation tactics. And urge him to ask a teacher for support. "The bully will quickly realize that this kid is too much trouble to bother with."
* Bullies do change.
Challenge Day runs more than 1,000 antibullying programs a year, and 99 percent of the time, Gaglia sees the bullies apologize. Frequently, they also turn into student leaders. "I've watched kids become peer counselors or spearhead programs to help new students transition at school," she says. "Bullies don't realize they can use their power for good until someone wakes them up to it." A great wake-up call? Suggest that a bully be assigned a position of responsibility, like bus monitor or teacher's helper.
* You can keep your child from bullying others.
One of the most common causes of bullying behavior is turmoil at home, says Gaglia - especially divorce. During or after a divorce, "kids often stop talking to their parents about how they're feeling," she explains, "because they're afraid to upset them even more. Instead, they lash out at other kids." You can't prevent tough times from happening, of course, but by making sure your child gets all his emotions out in the open, you can help him from becoming a Draco Malfoy at school.
-Erin Zammett Ruddy
Friday, November 19, 2010
Josie Adams is 6th Grade Spelling Bee Champion
Congratulations to Josie Adams in Mrs. Childress's homeroom for winning the sixth grade spelling bee. Josie will be representing the sixth grade in the Verbena High School Spelling Bee on December 3, 2010. The winner of the school bee will go to the Chilton County Spelling Bee on February 10, 2011, to compete with the winners from each school in Chilton County. Good luck, Josie!
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Tips for Buying Toys
With so many choices, holiday toy shopping can be an overwhelming (and expensive) task. Finding the right age-appropriate toy for babies, toddlers and preschoolers not only creates a holiday hero (you!), it also can enhance a child's development and foster his learning experience- without the child even realizing it.
"It's not just play," says Jane Duer, Manager of the Early Intervention Program at Children's Hospital of Alabama. "For children play is their work and their school. They learn through every encounter with you, their toys and their surroundings [intentional and unintentional]. Because play is so important and because there are so many toys on the market, research is helpful prior to making purchases for that little one. Parents should not only consider the safety of the toys they choose, but also the skills that will be developed during playtime."
The experts at Children's Hospital have provided the following guide to help parents choose the toys that will be most helpful to increasing motor skills; enhancing cognitive development and building upon what many children are capable of doing at each age and developmental stage.
Use these tips to help pick the perfect gift for the child in your life this season:
* Choose toys that can be used in a variety of ways. The more functions the toys have the more likely the child will play with them for more than the day they are opened. Examples include blocks, interlocking blocks, nesting blocks or cups and water toys.
* Toys to grow with your child. If you buy small plastic animals (small but not a choking hazard) the young toddler might put them in and take them out of a dump truck and then when older may engage in pretend play with them. Other examples may include stuffed animals and dolls, trucks and cars.
* Give toys that encourage exploration and problem-solving. Stuffed animals are a popular gift for toddlers and many of these end up as life-long buddies for the young child, but a toddler needs other toys too that provide an opportunity for skill building, exploration and problem solving. Examples include simple 4-5 piece wooden puzzles and shape sorters for the young toddler, cause and effect toys, nesting cups and blocks.
* Don't forget the items around the house. Some toddlers enjoy having a drawer or cabinet in the kitchen with stuff they can play with. Items such as plastic bowls and lids, wooden and measuring spoons, small pots are often a big hit. Mommy's old dresses and high heels, dad's hat and suit jacket can also spur a young child to creativity in play. Giving your toddler or preschooler the items you no longer wear or use is a great way to "recycle" and to help him develop important skills.
* Books are always a great choice. Even when your child is a baby, read to them from simple books. When they are able to focus on pictures, read from books with bright, vivid pictures. Real pictures are best for babies and young toddlers. Save the more complex books for older toddlers (closer to three years of age).
* Young infants need toys too. Young babies explore and learn about their world through their senses. Toys for this age should provide appropriate sensory stimulation (not too much or the he may try to avoid the toy by crying or looking away). Toys may provide visual stimulation (lights, bright colors, contrasting colors, simple pictures), auditory stimulation (music, voices) and tactile stimulation (nubby balls, soft fluffy stuffed animals). Babies often explore by mouthing objects. This is perfectly normal and can be expected. Just make sure the objects are clean and safe for the baby to mouth.
For more information on this and other children's health and safety issues, please visit our website at www.chsys.org
"It's not just play," says Jane Duer, Manager of the Early Intervention Program at Children's Hospital of Alabama. "For children play is their work and their school. They learn through every encounter with you, their toys and their surroundings [intentional and unintentional]. Because play is so important and because there are so many toys on the market, research is helpful prior to making purchases for that little one. Parents should not only consider the safety of the toys they choose, but also the skills that will be developed during playtime."
The experts at Children's Hospital have provided the following guide to help parents choose the toys that will be most helpful to increasing motor skills; enhancing cognitive development and building upon what many children are capable of doing at each age and developmental stage.
Use these tips to help pick the perfect gift for the child in your life this season:
* Choose toys that can be used in a variety of ways. The more functions the toys have the more likely the child will play with them for more than the day they are opened. Examples include blocks, interlocking blocks, nesting blocks or cups and water toys.
* Toys to grow with your child. If you buy small plastic animals (small but not a choking hazard) the young toddler might put them in and take them out of a dump truck and then when older may engage in pretend play with them. Other examples may include stuffed animals and dolls, trucks and cars.
* Give toys that encourage exploration and problem-solving. Stuffed animals are a popular gift for toddlers and many of these end up as life-long buddies for the young child, but a toddler needs other toys too that provide an opportunity for skill building, exploration and problem solving. Examples include simple 4-5 piece wooden puzzles and shape sorters for the young toddler, cause and effect toys, nesting cups and blocks.
* Don't forget the items around the house. Some toddlers enjoy having a drawer or cabinet in the kitchen with stuff they can play with. Items such as plastic bowls and lids, wooden and measuring spoons, small pots are often a big hit. Mommy's old dresses and high heels, dad's hat and suit jacket can also spur a young child to creativity in play. Giving your toddler or preschooler the items you no longer wear or use is a great way to "recycle" and to help him develop important skills.
* Books are always a great choice. Even when your child is a baby, read to them from simple books. When they are able to focus on pictures, read from books with bright, vivid pictures. Real pictures are best for babies and young toddlers. Save the more complex books for older toddlers (closer to three years of age).
* Young infants need toys too. Young babies explore and learn about their world through their senses. Toys for this age should provide appropriate sensory stimulation (not too much or the he may try to avoid the toy by crying or looking away). Toys may provide visual stimulation (lights, bright colors, contrasting colors, simple pictures), auditory stimulation (music, voices) and tactile stimulation (nubby balls, soft fluffy stuffed animals). Babies often explore by mouthing objects. This is perfectly normal and can be expected. Just make sure the objects are clean and safe for the baby to mouth.
For more information on this and other children's health and safety issues, please visit our website at www.chsys.org
Monday, November 8, 2010
2nd Nine Weeks Progress Reports
Students will be coming home with their second nine weeks progress reports on Monday, November 15. If parents have any questions or concerns, they should call the school office at (205)280-2820 to schedule an appointment with their child's teachers.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Winners of Red Ribbon Week Classes with Highest Participation
Congratulations to Mrs. Dale's second grade homeroom and Mrs. Smith's fifth grade homeroom for having the highest average percentage of students participating in each day's dress-up theme during Red Ribbon Week. These classes will be rewarded with an ice cream party on Wednesday, November 10. Thanks to everyone for your participation!
The most exciting part of Red Ribbon Week was the assembly program presented by Officer Beth Hucks and Canine Officer Jason Ousley who brought Iko, the Sheriff's Department drug dog, who showed us his ability at sniffing out drugs from among several suitcases. We greatly appreciate these officers and Iko for their willingness to come to the county schools and provide valuable educational programs.
The most exciting part of Red Ribbon Week was the assembly program presented by Officer Beth Hucks and Canine Officer Jason Ousley who brought Iko, the Sheriff's Department drug dog, who showed us his ability at sniffing out drugs from among several suitcases. We greatly appreciate these officers and Iko for their willingness to come to the county schools and provide valuable educational programs.
Veteran's Day Holiday
Veteran's Day, November 11, will be a holiday for students and teachers. We will also be out for Friday, November 12. Everyone enjoy your break and stay safe!
Please remember to tell any veterans that you know how much you appreciate their service to our country!
Please remember to tell any veterans that you know how much you appreciate their service to our country!
Friday, November 5, 2010
VHS Spelling Bee
The Verbena High School Spelling Bee is scheduled for December 3 at 1:30. The winners from each homeroom in grades four through eight will be competing to be the Verbena High representative at the Chilton County Spelling Bee. Homeroom teachers have been given word lists for students to be studying before their homeroom spelling bees. The Chilton County Spelling Bee will be held on February 10 at the Alabama Power Conference Center at 8:30 am.
Friday, October 29, 2010
BOOK FAIR!!
The Book Fair will start on Monday, November 1, at both libraries, on the main campus and at the annex. There are great books for children and adults, wonderful gift items, teaching materials, and just fun stuff. Get your Christmas shopping done at the Book Fair! Profits go to buy books and items needed for the library. The hours for the annex book fair are Monday through Thursday, 12:00 - 2:00.
Monday, October 18, 2010
STRANGER DANGER
Strangers can hurt you. Be aware and be safe.
Who is a Stranger?
A stranger is anyone you don't know. Strangers can be men, women or teenagers. If you have never met them in real life, they are a stranger! Although there are kind strangers, some strangers are not always kind and some can hurt you. A stranger who is not kind does not have to look scary. They can be good looking, clean and well dressed. There is no way to tell if someone is good just by looking at them. Bad people can pretend to be nice to try to fool you. Don't be fooled! Just stay away.
What should I do if a stranger tries to talk to me?
Ignore them. Do not look at them or acknowledge that they have spoken to you. Walk quickly or run away from them. Go in the opposite direction as fast as you can. Go to a home of someone you know or to an area that has a lot of people. You can dart into a store or school if you have too. Tell an adult you can trust about what happened, like a parent, a teacher, a police officer or some other grownup your parents said you can talk to.
What about when I am at home alone?
Keep all the doors and windows locked and don't let anyone know you are home alone. If someone rings your doorbell, look through a peephole or window to see who it is. If you do not recognize them, don't open the door! Even if they are saying it is an emergency and they need to use the phone or come inside, do not open the door. They can go to another house where an adult is home to assist them. If someone calls and asks for your parents, do not tell them you are home alone. Tell the person your mom or dad can't come to the phone right now but you will take a message and they will call them back in a few minutes. Tell them this even if your parent(s) is gone for an hour or more. If you have call display and do not recognize the name or phone number on the phone, don't answer it. Just let the machine pick up the message or let them call back.
How do strangers trick you?
Strangers who are bad people and want to hurt you have developed some pretty tricky things to do to confuse you and get you alone with them. First there is the "Help Trick". This is when a stranger asks you to help them find a lost pet or maybe asks you for directions to get somewhere. Seems harmless enough right? That is what they want you to think. There are adults all over the place that a stranger can ask for help. Turn and walk away. The next trick is called the "Emergency Trick". This is a scary one for a child to be subjected to. A stranger will tell you that there is an emergency in your family and your mom or dad asked them to get you. The stranger may even say that your mom or dad got hurt. Think straight. Your mom or dad would never send a stranger to tell you news like this. Turn around and run away! A new one that strangers are trying is the "Accident Trick". This is when a stranger lays on the ground and looks like they have been injured and unconscious or in pain. The desire to help this person is big and kids want to help and be heroes. Do not go over to the person. They can grab you and take you away. Instead, go to someone you know and tell them about the situation or call 911 and they will come to help. You don't need to be near the person while an adult or emergency crew come to assist. Stay away! The "Animal Trick" is another one that is hard to resist. This is when a stranger holds a small animal and invites you to pet it. This is a trick! You are close enough for this stranger to discard the animal and grab you. The stranger might ask you to come back to their car or home and help feed the baby animal. Don't! Turn around and run away. The last is called the "Bride Trick". This is when a stranger promises you candy, money or something else of interest. People do not give gifts to people they do not know. This is a trick. Once the stranger has you alone you are going to be hurt. Turn around and run away.
People who look friendly are not always nice. Keep safe with these tips:
1. Always tell your parents where you are going.
2. Try not to walk anywhere alone. Walk with a friend.
3. Don't take shortcuts through the woods, a back street or empty lot.
4. Do not get close to strangers. Make sure you have room to run.
5. Don't tell your name or address to a stranger.
6. Never take candy, money or gifts from a stranger.
7. Never go with a stranger to help look for a lost pet or play a game.
8. Never get into a car with anyone you don't know.
9. If a stranger bothers you, run away and ask an adult for help.
10. Know safe places you can go. Try a police or fire station, the library, a store or a friend's house.
11. If a stranger follows you or grabs for you, yell real loud. Shout, "I don't know you," so people know you are in trouble. Fight back and make as much noise as you can. If they threaten to hurt your family, keep yelling. They can't hurt you from jail.
12. If anyone touches you in a bad way, say "NO" as loudly as you can and run away. Tell an adult immediately.
13. Tell your parents about places or people that make you feel unsafe.
14. Talk to your parents and come up with a secret code word for emergencies. Never go with anyone unless they know the secret code word.
15. Know how and when to call 9-1-1.
16. Never open the door to a stranger.
17. Never tell anyone on the phone you are alone.
18. Do not tell callers your name, phone number or address.
19. If you don't like what someone is saying on the phone, hang up right away.
Who is a Stranger?
A stranger is anyone you don't know. Strangers can be men, women or teenagers. If you have never met them in real life, they are a stranger! Although there are kind strangers, some strangers are not always kind and some can hurt you. A stranger who is not kind does not have to look scary. They can be good looking, clean and well dressed. There is no way to tell if someone is good just by looking at them. Bad people can pretend to be nice to try to fool you. Don't be fooled! Just stay away.
What should I do if a stranger tries to talk to me?
Ignore them. Do not look at them or acknowledge that they have spoken to you. Walk quickly or run away from them. Go in the opposite direction as fast as you can. Go to a home of someone you know or to an area that has a lot of people. You can dart into a store or school if you have too. Tell an adult you can trust about what happened, like a parent, a teacher, a police officer or some other grownup your parents said you can talk to.
What about when I am at home alone?
Keep all the doors and windows locked and don't let anyone know you are home alone. If someone rings your doorbell, look through a peephole or window to see who it is. If you do not recognize them, don't open the door! Even if they are saying it is an emergency and they need to use the phone or come inside, do not open the door. They can go to another house where an adult is home to assist them. If someone calls and asks for your parents, do not tell them you are home alone. Tell the person your mom or dad can't come to the phone right now but you will take a message and they will call them back in a few minutes. Tell them this even if your parent(s) is gone for an hour or more. If you have call display and do not recognize the name or phone number on the phone, don't answer it. Just let the machine pick up the message or let them call back.
How do strangers trick you?
Strangers who are bad people and want to hurt you have developed some pretty tricky things to do to confuse you and get you alone with them. First there is the "Help Trick". This is when a stranger asks you to help them find a lost pet or maybe asks you for directions to get somewhere. Seems harmless enough right? That is what they want you to think. There are adults all over the place that a stranger can ask for help. Turn and walk away. The next trick is called the "Emergency Trick". This is a scary one for a child to be subjected to. A stranger will tell you that there is an emergency in your family and your mom or dad asked them to get you. The stranger may even say that your mom or dad got hurt. Think straight. Your mom or dad would never send a stranger to tell you news like this. Turn around and run away! A new one that strangers are trying is the "Accident Trick". This is when a stranger lays on the ground and looks like they have been injured and unconscious or in pain. The desire to help this person is big and kids want to help and be heroes. Do not go over to the person. They can grab you and take you away. Instead, go to someone you know and tell them about the situation or call 911 and they will come to help. You don't need to be near the person while an adult or emergency crew come to assist. Stay away! The "Animal Trick" is another one that is hard to resist. This is when a stranger holds a small animal and invites you to pet it. This is a trick! You are close enough for this stranger to discard the animal and grab you. The stranger might ask you to come back to their car or home and help feed the baby animal. Don't! Turn around and run away. The last is called the "Bride Trick". This is when a stranger promises you candy, money or something else of interest. People do not give gifts to people they do not know. This is a trick. Once the stranger has you alone you are going to be hurt. Turn around and run away.
People who look friendly are not always nice. Keep safe with these tips:
1. Always tell your parents where you are going.
2. Try not to walk anywhere alone. Walk with a friend.
3. Don't take shortcuts through the woods, a back street or empty lot.
4. Do not get close to strangers. Make sure you have room to run.
5. Don't tell your name or address to a stranger.
6. Never take candy, money or gifts from a stranger.
7. Never go with a stranger to help look for a lost pet or play a game.
8. Never get into a car with anyone you don't know.
9. If a stranger bothers you, run away and ask an adult for help.
10. Know safe places you can go. Try a police or fire station, the library, a store or a friend's house.
11. If a stranger follows you or grabs for you, yell real loud. Shout, "I don't know you," so people know you are in trouble. Fight back and make as much noise as you can. If they threaten to hurt your family, keep yelling. They can't hurt you from jail.
12. If anyone touches you in a bad way, say "NO" as loudly as you can and run away. Tell an adult immediately.
13. Tell your parents about places or people that make you feel unsafe.
14. Talk to your parents and come up with a secret code word for emergencies. Never go with anyone unless they know the secret code word.
15. Know how and when to call 9-1-1.
16. Never open the door to a stranger.
17. Never tell anyone on the phone you are alone.
18. Do not tell callers your name, phone number or address.
19. If you don't like what someone is saying on the phone, hang up right away.
Drug Addiction
Drug abuse and drug addiction are the growing problems in the society today. Drug abuse means taking a psychoactive or performance enhancing substance that directly affects the working of your nervous system. Drugs abuse can cause many problems, not only related to health, but also socialism and morality. Most people fall to drug abuse during their college life, as kids or teenagers. The largest consumers of drugs are young adults and teenagers.
There are many reasons for falling for drug abuse and getting addicted to drugs. A person, who suffers from low self esteem, is emotionally unstable and wants relief from mental pain; hence, he/she usually goes for drugs. These people do not have enough self-resilience to handle pain or stress, depression and loneliness, and find drugs a helpful way to escape the situation. Even a one-time use of drugs can cause drug addiction.
One of the factors that increase drug abuse risk is family history; if one of the family members is using drugs then it also influences the other members. An untreated physical pain or mental illnesses, like anxiety or depression, can also increase the risk of drug abuse. One of the most common causes of drug abuse is peer pressure. Teenagers and adolescents usually get into drug addiction due to peer pressure. Peer pressure means the pressure to fit in a group, to be liked or be popular. Sometimes teenagers try drugs because they are curious, or just because "everyone is doing it". Peer pressure can make one indulge in activities and do things that one would not do in normal conditions.
People, due to peer pressure, leave their principles, common sense, responsibility and morals behind, and do what their friends want them to do. With peer pressure, it becomes very hard to say no to drugs. But, it is very important to be conscious about the learning one has gotten, common sense, beliefs and feelings about drugs, before trying it. Only if one is strong and confident, resisting the peer pressure and avoiding drug use becomes easier.
Following are some ways to ignore peer pressure to take drugs:
1. Have a friend or peer who backs you up when everyone is pressurizing you to take drugs. If you have such a peer, who says no to drugs too, leaving the group and resisting the peer pressure becomes much easier. Make friends that share your values, respect your boundaries and are ready to leave with you when you ask them to.
2. If your friend or your group is pressuring you, you can also ask for an advice from an elder. Talking to an elder, parent, teacher or counselor can give you a lot of confidence in yourself. They will also give you tips and help you make new friends.
3. Set your own limits and boundaries, and speak up and communicate them to your friends, whenever possible. They might tease you, but most of the people respect the limits others have drawn for themselves. If they still force you and pressurize you, do not be afraid to leave the group.
4. Studies have shown that people are in a parent-adolescent relationship and having a strong family structure makes it easier to avoid peer pressure to take drugs.
James Handforth is a health expert. You can get complete substance abuse treatment and guidance to live a healthier life.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Handforth
There are many reasons for falling for drug abuse and getting addicted to drugs. A person, who suffers from low self esteem, is emotionally unstable and wants relief from mental pain; hence, he/she usually goes for drugs. These people do not have enough self-resilience to handle pain or stress, depression and loneliness, and find drugs a helpful way to escape the situation. Even a one-time use of drugs can cause drug addiction.
One of the factors that increase drug abuse risk is family history; if one of the family members is using drugs then it also influences the other members. An untreated physical pain or mental illnesses, like anxiety or depression, can also increase the risk of drug abuse. One of the most common causes of drug abuse is peer pressure. Teenagers and adolescents usually get into drug addiction due to peer pressure. Peer pressure means the pressure to fit in a group, to be liked or be popular. Sometimes teenagers try drugs because they are curious, or just because "everyone is doing it". Peer pressure can make one indulge in activities and do things that one would not do in normal conditions.
People, due to peer pressure, leave their principles, common sense, responsibility and morals behind, and do what their friends want them to do. With peer pressure, it becomes very hard to say no to drugs. But, it is very important to be conscious about the learning one has gotten, common sense, beliefs and feelings about drugs, before trying it. Only if one is strong and confident, resisting the peer pressure and avoiding drug use becomes easier.
Following are some ways to ignore peer pressure to take drugs:
1. Have a friend or peer who backs you up when everyone is pressurizing you to take drugs. If you have such a peer, who says no to drugs too, leaving the group and resisting the peer pressure becomes much easier. Make friends that share your values, respect your boundaries and are ready to leave with you when you ask them to.
2. If your friend or your group is pressuring you, you can also ask for an advice from an elder. Talking to an elder, parent, teacher or counselor can give you a lot of confidence in yourself. They will also give you tips and help you make new friends.
3. Set your own limits and boundaries, and speak up and communicate them to your friends, whenever possible. They might tease you, but most of the people respect the limits others have drawn for themselves. If they still force you and pressurize you, do not be afraid to leave the group.
4. Studies have shown that people are in a parent-adolescent relationship and having a strong family structure makes it easier to avoid peer pressure to take drugs.
James Handforth is a health expert. You can get complete substance abuse treatment and guidance to live a healthier life.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Handforth
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
First Nine Weeks Grade Reports
Thanks to all the parents who came to the school and met with their children's teachers on Tuesday, October 12. If parents were unable to pick up the first nine weeks grade reports on Tuesday, the students will bring them home on Friday, unless the parent comes to the school before then. If any parent has questions or concerns about their child's grades, please call the school at 280-2820 to schedule an appointment to speak to a teacher.
This Week's Word is CLEANLINESS
This week at Verbena High School, the character education word for the week is "cleanliness". Sometimes cleanliness is a problem among students that we as educators have to address. Kids can be brutally honest when they notice that a classmate has poor hygiene or an odor issue. Students with poor hygiene usually have all the basics to help the problem at home, but parents may be too busy to notice that their child is not bathing properly or always wearing clean clothes. Educators may have to talk to the student and call the home to help rectify this unhealthy hygiene condition. Hygiene kits can also be made available to any student who needs help with having the basic supplies that are necessary for a clean body, including teeth and hair. For students or adults who have questions on the subject of cleanliness or health issues, there is a wonderful website, kidshealth.org. It is a source for much good information.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
SAFEGUARD AGAINST FOOD POISONING
While the approaching holiday season offers the opportunity for fun and fellowship
with friends and family, there is also an opportunity for pesky pathogens to wreak
havoc via food borne illnesses. It is important to safe guard your family from food
poisoning by taking precautions while preparing or partaking in festive fare. Each
year, hundreds of children are hospitalized due to ingesting foods that have not
been properly stored.
"Always wash your hands before preparing any meal, wash all fruits and vegetables
especially those that are going to be served raw, and thoroughly clean counter
tops, cutting boards or anything that might be exposed to raw meat," said Ann
Slattery, Supervisor of the Regional Poison Control Center at Children's Hospital.
"Also, never leave any foods that require refrigeration out for more than two hours
at room temperature."
To prevent food borne illnesses from disrupting your holiday celebrations this year,
follow theses food safety tips:
* Never leave food out for longer than two hours at room temperature.
· Always keep cold foods cold (below 40°F) and hot foods hot (above 140°f).
· When reheating cooked food, make sure to heat to 165 °F before serving.
· Always wash your hands.
· Use a meat thermometer to make sure the meat is done.
· Use two cutting boards, one for raw meats and one for vegetables.
For more information on this and other children's health and safety issues, visit
our web site at www.chsys.org
with friends and family, there is also an opportunity for pesky pathogens to wreak
havoc via food borne illnesses. It is important to safe guard your family from food
poisoning by taking precautions while preparing or partaking in festive fare. Each
year, hundreds of children are hospitalized due to ingesting foods that have not
been properly stored.
"Always wash your hands before preparing any meal, wash all fruits and vegetables
especially those that are going to be served raw, and thoroughly clean counter
tops, cutting boards or anything that might be exposed to raw meat," said Ann
Slattery, Supervisor of the Regional Poison Control Center at Children's Hospital.
"Also, never leave any foods that require refrigeration out for more than two hours
at room temperature."
To prevent food borne illnesses from disrupting your holiday celebrations this year,
follow theses food safety tips:
* Never leave food out for longer than two hours at room temperature.
· Always keep cold foods cold (below 40°F) and hot foods hot (above 140°f).
· When reheating cooked food, make sure to heat to 165 °F before serving.
· Always wash your hands.
· Use a meat thermometer to make sure the meat is done.
· Use two cutting boards, one for raw meats and one for vegetables.
For more information on this and other children's health and safety issues, visit
our web site at www.chsys.org
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Parent Report Card Day
Parent Report Card Day is Tuesday, October 12, from 12:00 to 6:00 PM. This day has been set aside for the first nine weeks grade reports to be picked up by the parents from the students' homeroom teachers. It is a great opportunity for parents to find out how their children are doing in school and meet the teachers. Please make arrangements to visit the school on October 12.
Verbena High School Homecoming
Verbena High School, grades K-12, will be celebrating its homecoming during the week of September 27 through October 1. Every day there will be dress-up themes, and also there are special events throughout the week. Help your child (children) to have school pride and participate in as many of the homecoming festivities as they can. These memories will last a life time. To find out specific information about the dress-up days and other events, please go to this blog: http://sites.google.com/site/verbenahighschool/.
GO RED DEVILS!
GO RED DEVILS!
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Mrs. Whittle's Star Students - Week of Sept. 20
Kameron Bishop and Jayah Beagles are Mrs. Whittle's Star Students for the week of September 20. They were spotted having good manners towards their classmates. We are proud of you, Kameron and Jayah!
PARENTING WEBSITES
Parenting Websites:
www.focusonyourchild.com
http://www.onetoughjob.org
http://www.parenting.org
http://www.pbs.org/parents
http://www.loveourchildrenusa.org
www.focusonyourchild.com
http://www.onetoughjob.org
http://www.parenting.org
http://www.pbs.org/parents
http://www.loveourchildrenusa.org
Friday, September 17, 2010
ALL ABOUT BULLYING - Children Who Are Bullied
There are many signs that a child is being bullied. Some signs to look for:
•The child comes home with torn, damaged, or missing pieces of clothing, books or other belongings.
•The child has unexplained bruises, cuts or scratches.
•The child seems afraid of going to school, walking to and from school, riding the school bus or taking part in organized activities with peers.
•The child appears sad, moody, teary or depressed when he or she comes home.
•The child frequently appears anxious and/or suffers from low self-esteem.
If you suspect your child is being bullied, remember to support your child, inform others and take action.
•First, focus on your child. Be supportive and gather information about the bullying. Tell your child you are concerned about him or her and ask questions.
•Contact your child's teacher and/or principal. He or she will probably be in the best position to understand the relationships between your child and other peers at school. Ask the teacher to talk to other adults who interact with your child at school to see if they have observed students bullying your child.
•If you know your child is being bullied, take quick action. There is nothing worse than doing nothing, and bullying can have serious effects.
If, after talking with your child and staff at his or her school, you don't believe your child is being bullied, be alert to other possible problems your child may be having. Share your concerns with a counselor at your child's school.
•The child comes home with torn, damaged, or missing pieces of clothing, books or other belongings.
•The child has unexplained bruises, cuts or scratches.
•The child seems afraid of going to school, walking to and from school, riding the school bus or taking part in organized activities with peers.
•The child appears sad, moody, teary or depressed when he or she comes home.
•The child frequently appears anxious and/or suffers from low self-esteem.
If you suspect your child is being bullied, remember to support your child, inform others and take action.
•First, focus on your child. Be supportive and gather information about the bullying. Tell your child you are concerned about him or her and ask questions.
•Contact your child's teacher and/or principal. He or she will probably be in the best position to understand the relationships between your child and other peers at school. Ask the teacher to talk to other adults who interact with your child at school to see if they have observed students bullying your child.
•If you know your child is being bullied, take quick action. There is nothing worse than doing nothing, and bullying can have serious effects.
If, after talking with your child and staff at his or her school, you don't believe your child is being bullied, be alert to other possible problems your child may be having. Share your concerns with a counselor at your child's school.
Monday, September 13, 2010
First Five Weeks Progress Report
It's hard to believe that the first five weeks of school have already gone by. It is time for the first progress report of the school year. Students will be bringing home their progress reports and ARMT/SAT-10 parent reports on Monday, September 13. Please look carefully at your child's reports. If you have questions or concerns, please get in touch with the school office (205) 280-2820 or you may email me to set up an appointment with your child's teacher.
Parent Report Card Day is Tuesday, October 12, from 12:00 to 6:00 PM. This day has been set aside for the first nine weeks grade reports to be picked up by the parents from the students' homeroom teachers. It is a great opportunity for parents to find out how their children are doing in school and meet the teachers.
Parent Report Card Day is Tuesday, October 12, from 12:00 to 6:00 PM. This day has been set aside for the first nine weeks grade reports to be picked up by the parents from the students' homeroom teachers. It is a great opportunity for parents to find out how their children are doing in school and meet the teachers.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Homework Help Websites
Here are some neat websites that may help you win the homework battle and address other issues that your child may be experiencing.
www.middleschool.net www.ncld.org
www.middleschool.net www.ncld.org
Mrs. Whittle's Star Students
Marco Camarillo and Lilli Hester were spotted having Great Manners in Mrs. Whittle's classroom. They are Mrs. Whittle's STAR STUDENTS for the week of Sept. 7. Keep up the good work!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Third Grade Students of the Week - Mr. Cleckler's Class
Mr. Cleckler reports that the following students from his class all deserve to be Students of the Week: Keila Castro, Kaylee Mims, Shaniah Pasley, Dalton Patterson, Jenae Pierce, Alexa Tomas'. Special thanks to these students for all of their hard work.
Monday, August 30, 2010
Mrs. Deloach's Students of the Week
The students of the week for Mrs. Deloach's kindergarten class are Alex Battle and Joseph Brasher. Keep up the good work!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Title 1 Parental Involvement Meeting - Aug. 16
Title I Parental Involvement Meeting at 6:30 PM on Monday, August 16, involves all grades. When that meeting is adjourned we will begin our Open House for grades 7 - 12.
Hidden Dangers In and Around the Car
All it takes is one sleep deprived parent, one inquisitive child and a slightly elevated heat index for a seemingly avoidable tragedy to occur. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 10 percent of vehicle-related accidents occur outside of traffic, such as children being struck in driveways or trapped in unattended vehicles.
With school back in session, and schedules changing, it is easy for parents who normally do not drop children off at school or daycare to forget about a child in the backseat-especially if the parent didn’t get enough sleep the night before or there are no visual reminders to cue the parent’s memory. Children’s Hospital of Alabama and Safe Kids USA offer several educational programs including Never Leave Your Child Alone, and Spot the Tot -- to help parents prevent accidents such as overheating and rollovers.
Never Leave Your Child Alone
Although summer is waning, Alabama temperatures in September are still very high. Within the first six months of 2010, 20 children in the U.S. died from overheating after being left in a vehicle in hot weather.
“Many times, caregivers leave children in vehicles to run a quick errand or because they do not feel hot themselves,” says Dr. Bill King, Divisional Director of the Southeast Child Safety institute at Children’s Hospital. “However, a child’s body does not have the same internal temperature control as an adult’s and can warm three to five times faster, leading to heat stroke and other heat-related injury.”
Heatstroke occurs when the body core temperature reaches 104 degrees Fahrenheit, and a body core temperature of 107 degrees Fahrenheit is usually fatal.
The inside temperature of a vehicle can rise 20 degrees higher than the outside temperature in as little as 10 minutes. After 30 minutes the vehicle’s temperature will be 34 degrees hotter.
To ensure you do not accidentally leave your child in a hot vehicle, follow these tips:
• Never leave your child in an unattended car, even with the windows down.
• Set your cell phone or Blackberry reminder to be sure you dropped your child off at school or day care.
• Have a plan that if your child is late for school or daycare that you will be called within a few minutes. Be especially careful if you change your routine for dropping off little kids at day care.
• Dial 911 immediately if you see an unattended child in a car, or if your child is accidentally left in a car. EMS professionals are trained to determine if a child is in trouble.
Spot the Tot
Too often, children are struck by a vehicle in their own driveway by a relative unaware the child was near the vehicle, with tragic results. It can be difficult to see a child through a rearview mirror.
• Recent statistics show that, approximately 2,500 children per year ages 1 to 14 are taken to emergency rooms after being struck by a vehicle in a driveway or parking area.
• An average of 229 children per year died after being struck by a vehicle in a driveway or parking area.
• Close to half of children injured in these incidents were ages 1 to 4.
The best way to prevent a “frontover” or “backover” is a quick walk around the vehicle before climbing in.
For more information on this and other children’s health and safety issues, visit our website at www.chsys.org.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Back-to-School Safety
Steps Toward a Safer School Year
As the lazy days of summer draw to a close, parents need to prepare their children to go back to school. Freshly sharpened pencils and a good breakfast are not the only tools to success- the most important thing you can give your child this year is the knowledge of not only how to remain safe while at school, but also during the journey to and from class.
Children's Hospital of Alabama and the American Academy of Pediatrics offer these important reminders:
BACKPACK SAFETY
* Choose a backpack with wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back.
* Pack light. Organize the backpack to use all of its compartments. Pack heavier items closest to the center of the back. The backpack should never weigh more than 10to 20 percent of your child's body weight.
* Always use both shoulder straps. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles.
* Consider a rolling backpack. This type of backpack may be a good choice for students who must tote a heavy load. Remember that rolling backpacks still must be carried up stairs.
PLAYGROUND SAFETY
* Check playgrounds where your children play. Look for age-appropriate equipment and hazards, such as rusted or broken equipment and dangerous surfaces. Report any hazards to the school or municipality.
* Avoid playing on non-impact absorbing surfaces, like concrete or gravel.
* Teach children proper playground behavior: no pushing, shoving or crowding.
TRAVELING TO AND FROM SCHOOL
School Bus
According to Safe Kids Worldwide, a school bus is the safest way for children to get to school. Fatal crashes involving school bus occupants are extremely rare events, even though school buses serve about 23.5 children daily in nearly every community. Although this is one of the safest ways to travel to and from school, injuries do occur. In 1999, 31 children ages 14 and under were killed in bus-related traffic crashes. An estimated 7,000 children were in school bus-related incidents.
Here are ten school bus safety tips that all children and parents should know:
* Arrive at the bus stop five minutes early.
* Stay in a safe place away from the street while waiting for the bus.
* Stand at least 5 giant steps (10 feet) away from the edge of the road.
* Wait until the bus stops, the door opens and the driver says it is okay before
moving toward the bus.
* Be alert to traffic. When getting on or off the bus, your child should look left, right and left again before entering or crossing the street.
* If your child's school bus has lap/shoulder seat belts, make sure your child uses one at all times when in the bus.
* Wait for the bus to stop before approaching it from the curb.
* Do not move around on the bus.
* Make sure to always remain in clear view of the bus driver.
* Children should always board and exit the bus at locations that provide safe access to the bus or to the school building.
Walking to School
Returning to school is a time when parents, caregivers, teachers and child safety advocates need to focus on teaching children how to safely cross the street. Pedestrian injuries are the third leading cause of unintentional injury-related death among children ages five to 14. In 2006, nearly 800 children ages 14 and under died from pedestrian injuries, and in 2007 an estimated 27,000 children ages 14 and under suffered motor vehicle-related pedestrian injuries.
Here are some safety tips for parents and caregivers:
* Never allow children under age 10 to cross streets alone. Children need to be old enough to develop the skills to cross streets safely.
* Instruct children to look left, right and left again when crossing streets and to continue looking as they cross.
* Make sure children do not run into streets or dart from between parked cars.
* Require children to wear retro-reflective materials and carry a flashlight at dawn, at dusk and in bad weather.
* Make sure your child's walk to a school is a safe route with well-trained adult
* If your child is young or is walking to a new school, walk with them the first week to make sure they know the route and can do it safely.
* Bright colored clothing will make your child more visible to drivers.
"Back to school is a really busy time and safety should be the number one priority for parents," said Marie Crew, Alabama Safe Kids Coordinator. "Parents should start talking to their children and teaching safety tips long before the first day of school. Children will be traveling to school by various modes of transportation. Each mode comes with different safety issues. Parents need to educate themselves of the risks and how they can help their children stay safe."
For more information on this and other children's health and safety issues, visit our website at www.chsys.org
As the lazy days of summer draw to a close, parents need to prepare their children to go back to school. Freshly sharpened pencils and a good breakfast are not the only tools to success- the most important thing you can give your child this year is the knowledge of not only how to remain safe while at school, but also during the journey to and from class.
Children's Hospital of Alabama and the American Academy of Pediatrics offer these important reminders:
BACKPACK SAFETY
* Choose a backpack with wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back.
* Pack light. Organize the backpack to use all of its compartments. Pack heavier items closest to the center of the back. The backpack should never weigh more than 10to 20 percent of your child's body weight.
* Always use both shoulder straps. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles.
* Consider a rolling backpack. This type of backpack may be a good choice for students who must tote a heavy load. Remember that rolling backpacks still must be carried up stairs.
PLAYGROUND SAFETY
* Check playgrounds where your children play. Look for age-appropriate equipment and hazards, such as rusted or broken equipment and dangerous surfaces. Report any hazards to the school or municipality.
* Avoid playing on non-impact absorbing surfaces, like concrete or gravel.
* Teach children proper playground behavior: no pushing, shoving or crowding.
TRAVELING TO AND FROM SCHOOL
School Bus
According to Safe Kids Worldwide, a school bus is the safest way for children to get to school. Fatal crashes involving school bus occupants are extremely rare events, even though school buses serve about 23.5 children daily in nearly every community. Although this is one of the safest ways to travel to and from school, injuries do occur. In 1999, 31 children ages 14 and under were killed in bus-related traffic crashes. An estimated 7,000 children were in school bus-related incidents.
Here are ten school bus safety tips that all children and parents should know:
* Arrive at the bus stop five minutes early.
* Stay in a safe place away from the street while waiting for the bus.
* Stand at least 5 giant steps (10 feet) away from the edge of the road.
* Wait until the bus stops, the door opens and the driver says it is okay before
moving toward the bus.
* Be alert to traffic. When getting on or off the bus, your child should look left, right and left again before entering or crossing the street.
* If your child's school bus has lap/shoulder seat belts, make sure your child uses one at all times when in the bus.
* Wait for the bus to stop before approaching it from the curb.
* Do not move around on the bus.
* Make sure to always remain in clear view of the bus driver.
* Children should always board and exit the bus at locations that provide safe access to the bus or to the school building.
Walking to School
Returning to school is a time when parents, caregivers, teachers and child safety advocates need to focus on teaching children how to safely cross the street. Pedestrian injuries are the third leading cause of unintentional injury-related death among children ages five to 14. In 2006, nearly 800 children ages 14 and under died from pedestrian injuries, and in 2007 an estimated 27,000 children ages 14 and under suffered motor vehicle-related pedestrian injuries.
Here are some safety tips for parents and caregivers:
* Never allow children under age 10 to cross streets alone. Children need to be old enough to develop the skills to cross streets safely.
* Instruct children to look left, right and left again when crossing streets and to continue looking as they cross.
* Make sure children do not run into streets or dart from between parked cars.
* Require children to wear retro-reflective materials and carry a flashlight at dawn, at dusk and in bad weather.
* Make sure your child's walk to a school is a safe route with well-trained adult
* If your child is young or is walking to a new school, walk with them the first week to make sure they know the route and can do it safely.
* Bright colored clothing will make your child more visible to drivers.
"Back to school is a really busy time and safety should be the number one priority for parents," said Marie Crew, Alabama Safe Kids Coordinator. "Parents should start talking to their children and teaching safety tips long before the first day of school. Children will be traveling to school by various modes of transportation. Each mode comes with different safety issues. Parents need to educate themselves of the risks and how they can help their children stay safe."
For more information on this and other children's health and safety issues, visit our website at www.chsys.org
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Become a follower of the Red Devil Hot Line
The Red Devil Hot Line is a new blog just started by Lucinda Champion, the new elementary counselor/half media specialist at Verbena High School. From time to time, new posts will be added about upcoming events at VHS and will also feature articles and updates which may be of interest to students, parents, and teachers. Questions can be sent to Mrs. Champion and she will try to answer them or find the person(s) who can answer your questions. Enjoy the rest of your summer!
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