Welcome to Northeast Elementary School!
We seem to be finally welcoming winter! At this time of year, we get many questions about outdoor recess. As per usual, winter does affect our recess since students are not able to go outside on a daily basis. When the spaces we use (playground, concrete space outside of cafeteria and two tot lots behind the Pre-K and Grade 1 classrooms) are snow covered or icy we can not go out for safety reasons. We do not want children to be exposed to slick areas since we do not want them to fall and get hurt. We also do not want students to get wet; sitting around in wet pants all afternoon is uncomfortable, to say the least. There have been times when it has been feasible to have custodians do some cleaning on the spaces; however we can not do this regularly because the focus of snow removal needs to be on the ways into school. We must also consider the regular tasks and responsibilities as well as the work load of our custodians. Please keep in mind that students do have other opportunities for movement during the school day: our building is large and all students walk to and from the cafeteria daily as well as to and from their specialists. Teachers bring their students to the Library Media Center and the Computer Lab throughout the week. Additionally, teachers work hard to provide a variety of learning experiences for students that typically include moving around in the classroom. We do encourage families to make sure that students have time, after school, to get outside and play either in formal (e.g., sports leagues, dance, karate) or informal activities (e.g., play dates with neighbors or classmates, riding bikes [with helmets, of course]). Also, please make sure that your child has a coat, hat and mittens/gloves on when she comes to school. If a child is not adequately covered for the cold weather, he or she will not go outside for recess. Thanks to all the staff and parents who have supported our fall Northeast Walks! program. Our walking continues this winter with monthly themed walks – we have a Sweet Stroll planned for February 24th. There are walks also scheduled on March 17th (March Madness March) and April 7th (Spring Steps).
Remember, making sure that our children are active now will lead to life long good habits when it comes to physical activity. Some facts to consider about being active:
· Health status is influenced 40% by lifestyle and behavior choices. Individuals have the power to make good choices.
· Walking is a no-cost activity for families, neighbors, businesses and schools.
· Physically active youth are more likely to grow into physically active adults.
· Physical activity reduces the likelihood of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and stroke.
· Walking is a multi-generational, multi-cultural activity. Enjoy your February vacation!
Click here for information on our walking program: Northeast Walks!