Leaves are Falling, Winter’s Calling

Dear RWA Families,

What a nice November it was! Students learned about the history of the Native Americans and Pilgrims, what it means to be thankful, leaves changing, and the start of crisp days ahead.

We can’t believe we are already nearing the end of the year! With the start of December, comes a lot of excitement and anticipation throughout our school. We are looking forward to a jolly month ahead!

Reminders

Weather

Although the weather is getting colder, viruses that are spread by others, that cause colds and the flu are spread indoors. That being said, we will aim to get our students outdoors at least once a day to get some fresh air to strengthen the immune system. Please make sure your child comes to school with layers, gloves and a hat! If you have not already done so, please send in an extra pair of labeled gloves (mittens for little ones) and a hat to keep at school.

2021-2022 School Year

Believe it or not, the time to start thinking about the 2021-2022 school year is approaching! Keep an eye out for the re-enrollment form in your child’s folder when we return from Holiday Break. Those of you who plan on returning to our school next year should plan to register as soon as possible to ensure preferred placement.

All 2021-2022 Kindergarten student families are welcome to watch our Virtual Open House in January, to learn more about what makes our Kindergarten program unique. We will share the comparison of private school education vs. public school education for Kindergarten. Unfortunately, this can no longer be an in-person open house, due to Covid regulations. We will pre-record a video going over all information that would normally be covered and a link will be shared with all Pre-K families. We will also send out a form for any other specific questions you may have. Please feel free to pass the video along to others. All are welcome to watch!

Giving Back to our community through Connect With A Wish

We would like to share a new fundraising opportunity offered through our school this month! Connect With a Wish works to connect the wishes and needs of children in Virginia Beach foster care with the generosity of our community. These children are missing their families while trying to overcome adversity on all levels. They have not chosen this path, but we can help to brighten their path this season! Connect With a Wish gives our community an avenue to connect with these children in foster care on a level where we can make a difference in their lives.

We will be collecting donations up until December 18th. Donation suggestions can be found below:

  • Gifts for 3 and under

  • Board books

If you would like to learn more about this organization please visit their website at https://www.connectwithawish.org/ . Thank you in advance for your generosity and for making a difference in these children’s lives!

One Warm Coat

The last day to donate to our coat drive is December 18th. We are collecting clean, gently worn coats of all types and sizes and we would love your help! Our goal is to collect at least 50 coats for those in need . We have a drop off box located at the school entrance. Thank you for your support and to those that have already donated!

https://onewarmcoat.salsalabs.org/register/p/rollingwoodacademy

Important Dates

December 18th- Holiday Party @ 12pm- Unfortunately due to COVID-19 this year’s holiday party is a student only event. We will be serving pizza on this day, however please don’t forget to send in an AM and PM snack for your child. Your child’s teacher will be posting a sign-up sheet for volunteers to decorate the classroom, bring in juice-boxes, paper products, goodies bags, and fruit trays. Thank you for your support as we have had to modify many of our traditions this year.

December 21st-December 31st- School Closed for Winter Holiday

January 4th- School Reopens

The Season of Giving

One gift that children find most important is your time. It does not cost you a thing and you can give daily. Time spent with your children is far more valuable and important to them than any present you could buy.

Keep your child’s brain active during Holiday Break. Reading is the single most important skill your child will use in their lifetime. Also, remember to practice writing daily as well.

Here are a few ideas to spend time together on Holiday Break, while also keeping your child’s brain active:

  • Take time to read to your child or have your child read to you. This can be a time of sharing and relaxation together.

  • Play games with your child. This will let your child know that they are important to you.

  • Bake holiday treats with your child. This has you working as a team; counting and measuring; giving to others

  • Start an activity or project that you can accomplish together. Create a scrapbook or photo album together.

  • Volunteering your time together- donating; volunteering at different organizations

As we near the end of the year, we can’t help but reflect on all the tremendous support we have had from our Rollingwood family. We are beyond grateful for such an amazing school community!

Lastly, we want to wish you and your family a very happy and healthy holiday season this year! As always, thank you for your continued support.

Rollingwood Academy

Evelyn Paddack