Back To School Is Coming….FAST!!

by melanie on 07/31/09 at 2:18 pm

I can’t believe that I only have 8 week days left until I return to school and 13 until this year’s crop of students show up! Summer has definitely flown by for me. I have always loved this time, though, right before school when the stores are putting out loads of school supplies and fall clothes. There is excitement about what learning will take place and what the next year holds! However, one thing that as a parent and educator I feel strongly about, but often gets overlooked is the safety of going back to school. As Education Department Chair for my club, I addressed this in my August newsletter article. I decided to add it here as well. Whether you are a parent, an educator or a citizen of Anytown, USA, I hope that these will allow you to think of safety for children!

Back to School

It is “that” time of year again!! School is getting back into session and everyone is falling into a routine again. Here are some reminders for ensuring safety of schoolchildren everywhere this year:

1.Make sure coats, lunch boxes and backpacks are labeled. But, DON’T put your child’s first and last name on the outside of clothing and bags!!! That gives predators too much information!
2.Remind your child of safety precautions and procedures prior to school starts! Example: Never leave school with anyone that you don’t know or that your parent didn’t authorize directly.
3.This is the perfect time to establish or reinforce family emergency procedures.
4.And this one is for everyone whether they have students or not…..DRIVE CAREFULLLY!!! The start of school means more traffic, children at bus stops and school buses on the road!

Additionally, let me suggest that your club make an Education activity a priority these first few months. Take up supplies for needy students or offer to sponsor a local classroom….I promise you that the students AND the teachers will greatly appreciate it!