Thursday September 7th, 2017

Good morning,

I hope everyone is settling in to the new school year.  This week we continue to work on routines and classroom rules.  next week we will begin academics.  There is a birthday treat policy this year.  Please read the attached memo from Mrs. Waddell.  Thank you!

We know that students love to celebrate birthdays at school, as it is a memorable time to share with teachers and friends. In an effort to abide by our existing birthday treat policy and to maximize student instructional time, we are asking all families to follow these simple guidelines when planning for your child’s birthday celebration at school. The Whitmore staff feels strongly that by following these guidelines, we will be promoting a healthier lifestyle and maximizing student learning!

  • Bring in non-food items for classmates such as pencils, erasers, bookmarks, etc.
  • Volunteer in your child’s class and capture the moment with a class “birthday” photo.
  • Make a donation to your child’s class in honor of your child’s birthday.
  • Provide non-food item goodie bags for classmates which can be distributed and taken home at the end of the day.
  • Donate an educational game or book for your child’s classroom.
  • Or contact your child’s teacher with other non-food/drink ideas

Students are not allowed to bring in food/drink items for birthday celebrations at school. The purpose of this policy is to assure a school environment that promotes and protects students’ health, well-being, and ability to learn by supporting healthy eating and physical activity.

Other rationale for restricting treats at school includes:

  • Expense
  • Equity
  • Allergies

Please know that we are not trying to take the fun out of birthdays. Classroom teachers will continue to recognize children on their special day in special ways. Thank you in advance for your support of this policy and for helping promote healthy practices at Whitmore-Bolles!

Kristin M. Waddell

Principal, Whitmore Bolles Elementary

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