Cowles Memo for week of 09.08.2015

Back-to-school welcome and update from Nurse Robin:

Welcome back students and staff! I am excited to begin a new and healthy school year.  First, a quick reminder about immunizations.  All students need to have a recent immunization record or a medical or religious waiver on file.  If this is not in place by day 1 of school, a provisional certificate will be issued and sent home.  This certificate allows 60 days to complete the required immunization(s).  After the 60 day period, if I have not received the proper documentation, your student will not be allowed to return to school.  Remember, immunizations not only protect your child, but the community as well.  Not only is September known as “back to school” time, it is also National Childhood Obesity Month.  Try to offer your children plenty of fruits and vegetables at mealtime as well as snack time.  Offer water as an alternative to sugary drinks and sodas.  And finally, encourage physical activity!  The CDC recommends 60 minutes of physical activity a day for school-age children.  To learn more about nutrition and physical activity for kids, visit the CDC website or the American Academy of Pediatrics website.

Cowles Montessori Parent Group (CMPG):

CMPG is a non-profit parent organization that supports Cowles Montessori by raising funds, planning events, and providing volunteers. Every parent of a Cowles Montessori student is already a member.  No dues are required, and it’s a great way to learn about issues important for high quality Montessori education in the Des Moines Public Schools.  CMPG meetings give parents a chance to hear what’s going on at Cowles and a forum to have their ideas heard. At CMPG meetings we will typically discuss fund-raising and purchases for classrooms and the school, community-building and social events, special school activities (such as Peace Day and Field Day), curriculum, and facilities.  It is a great way for you to be more involved and really make a difference in your child’s education.  The 2015-2016 CMPG meetings are set for: