From The Principal

A Snow Day in November?

We were quite surprised for the large amount of snow that came this week! Also surprised that it closed all the local schools as road crews worked to clear subdivisions. I do not remember ever having this much snow or a day off due to the weather this early in the school year.

The Farmer's Almanac is predicting a snowy and cold winter for Michigan this season. From the UCS Elementary Student Handbook:

"Fresh air and exercise are proven to enhance a child’s physical and educational growth.

Recess is an important part of the Utica Community Schools elementary program and is supervised by authorized school personnel. A doctor’s note is required to excuse a student from recess for more than two days. Your child should come to school appropriately dressed for outdoor play, even in the winter months."

Please make sure your child is prepared to be outside for recess, even in the winter months. General guidelines for outdoor recess in the winter are outlined below.

Morgan completed the first of three school safety drills this week. Students discussed different options for school safety, including evacuation, stay in place, and door security. There will be two more state required school safety drills throughout the remainder of the school year, along with another severe weather awareness drill (2 required), and 2 more fire drills (5 required).

Finally, please remember that during arrival and dismissal times, our school buses have the right of way in the bus lane at all times. Our bus drivers are responsible for the transportation of up to 80 students per bus. As they arrive to school, drivers will be asked to quickly move out of the bus zone so students can exit the bus and enter the school safely. Thank you for your understanding and patience during our busy morning and dismissal times.

Have a great week!

Mrs. Lasky