Principal's Update 12-5-2021

Dear Rogers Community,
Last week was difficult, to say the least, and our hearts continue to go out to the Oxford community and all impacted by the horrible tragedy they experienced. Please know that our school closure on Friday was done in an abundance of caution and that the Berkley School District did not have any threats brought against it or any of our school buildings. And, if a threat had occurred, the District has strong relationships with our local public safety departments. Any time we feel there is a threat, or a potential threat is brought to our attention, we immediately contact public safety, and the officers do a thorough investigation. If they feel action is needed from us, like closing schools, we will do so. Your children are safe and loved at Rogers.
Here are some things to know for the weeks leading up to our holiday break:
Vaccine Clinics
As explained in this email that was sent out by Chris Sandoval, the Berkley School District is offering three vaccine clinics, for students in our community. The second clinic at Rogers will take place this Wednesday, from 3:30 until 6:30 PM. Please know that Dose 2 appointment times were automatically scheduled and are the same as Dose 1 appointment times.
RNN
Thank you to Mrs. Maiuri and our 4th graders for producing Rogers Network News. Enjoy watching this week's RNN broadcast!
Kudos to Ms. Conway's Class
Kudos and thanks to 5th graders in Ms. Conway's class for holding a silent auction to raise money for Diabetes Awareness Month. Their philanthropic efforts to help the JDRF Organization, in honor of a classmate, are an example of what a special, caring community Rogers is. We have amazing students, staff and parents!
BAAPN Meeting
The Berkley African American Parent December meeting will be held at 7:00 PM, on Thursday, December 16th, in the Norup International cafeteria. Please see this BAAPN flyer for a description of this parent run organization and a list of future meeting dates.
Book Fair
Because we were closed on Friday, Rogers Book Fair will be open all day on Monday for shopping, from 8:00-11:00 and 1:00-4:00. Classrooms that were scheduled to shop on Friday will do so on Monday.
Lunch Menu Change
Due to the unexpected school closure on Friday, Monday's menu will change from Chicken Drumstick to Bosco Sticks. Tuesday's menu will change from Macaroni & Cheese to Chicken Drumstick. The rest of the week will be as menued.
Temperature for Outdoor Recess and Line-Up
Students will line up outside and have recess outdoors when the temperature is above 9 degrees fahrenheit, and it is important for students to have appropriate outdoor clothing each day. If you are in need of anything for your child, please reach out to me.
Tragedy Resources
The Oxford High School tragedy continues to affect us all in a variety of ways. As we continue to process the events, remember there are many mental health professionals in the Berkley School District here to support your children including social workers, school psychologists and counselors. If you are in need of resources for talking to your child, here are a few:
Child Mind Trauma Guide
NASP - How to talk to your children about violence
NASP - How to talk to your children about violence - infographic
APA - Talking to your children after a school shooting
As mentioned above, our relationship with our public safety department is important, but so are the relationships we have with you, our families. Please continue to share your thoughts and concerns with us, and know that we take our responsibility to care for and educate your children seriously. We want students to feel safe, loved and well cared for when they are with us; and we want you to feel comfortable entrusting your children to us each school day.
Sincerely,
Beth Meacham
Principal