Hello OCRS families,
This is Thanksgiving Week and there will be no school this Thursday and Friday. There is school this Wednesday. Even though it's a short school week, there is LOTS of information for families and opportunities for students in this week's update!
No School Thursday & Friday for Thanksgiving Break
A reminder that there is no school this Thursday, 11/24, and Friday, 11/25 for Thanksgiving Break. There is school this Wednesday, 11/23. We hope that OCRS students, staff, and their families are able to spend Thanksgiving with loved ones and friends that are important to them.
Connections Survey for Students
Elementary students will be taking part in a brief “Connections” survey in the next two weeks at school. The goal for all students at Old County Road is for everyone to feel welcomed and connected to someone in our building. Connectedness is an indicator of social-emotional well-being for school-age students. This survey will let us know how we are doing with improving culture, climate and connections at Old County Road. Mrs. Costa and Mrs. Stepsis will inform parents/guardians should a child report they do not feel that they have any connections in the school. If you have any questions, please reach out.
School Pictures Retakes
School pictures retakes are scheduled for Tuesday, November 22nd. Information about picture retakes was sent home with any students that may have missed the initial school picture day. Families can order photos online at https://my.lifetouch.com/mylifetouch/#/ using the OCRS "Picture Day ID" EVTPQ9XPK. Lifetouch offers free shipping on any order of $29.99 or greater using the code SHIPFREEF22.
Dental Screening for Students
Dr. Greg Stepka, DMD will be conducting our dental screenings on Wednesday, November 23, 2022 at OCRS. This is only a screening and does not take the place of a true dental hygiene appointment. Please complete the online permission form if you would like your child to participate in the dental screening at school.
Home Internet Access for Families
In the event that the district calls for a virtual instructional day due to inclement weather or other emergencies necessitating the closure of school buildings, live online synchronous instruction will be provided from 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM. All students will bring their Chromebooks home in order to participate in the instruction. Please complete this form if you do not have home internet access so that we can create a plan for your student(s).
Tri-County Head Start & Early Head Start Program
The Tri-County Community Action Agency offers a variety of FREE early education programs for children 18 months to 5 years old. They also offer support for pregnant mothers and infants from birth to 18 months. Families can apply for Head Start ONLINE at https://www.tricountyri.org or CALL: 401-519-1979. Please see the linked flyer for additional information.
SSELAC Sensory Friendly "Santa & Mrs. Claus"
The Smithfield Special Education Local Advisory Committee (SSELAC) is hosting a Sensory Friendly "Santa & Mrs. Claus" on Saturday, December 3rd from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Smithfield High School. All age levels and siblings are welcome to attend. There will be arts and crafts, sensory bins, and holiday music and the location is wheelchair accessible.
Please see the flyer below for all details.
Ocean View Art Competition and Exhibition for Students
Calling All Student Artists in Rhode Island! Submit your artwork to Ocean View, a competition and exhibition that explores the many ways in which we are connected to and inspired by the ocean. Rhode Island students (Grades K through 12) are invited to enter one original two-dimensional piece. Winners in four age divisions will be awarded prizes to support their artistic development and ocean interest. More information and the commitment form can be found at https://web.uri.edu/gso/outreach/art/. Also, see the attached flyer in both English (PDF) and Spanish (PDF).
PTA Information
Holiday Bazaar, Saturday 12/3
The PTA is hosting its Holiday Bazaar at the school on Saturday, 12/3 from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. This is a really fun event and is the PTA's main fundraiser for the school year and more details are soon to follow. We are really excited to be able to bring this event back!
The PTA could really use volunteers to help out at the event! If you are available and willing to help out, even for just an hour or two, please email Amy Ricketson at ricketson.amy@gmail.com.
Upcoming Dates and Events
View and subscribe to the OCRS Public Events Calendar at https://oldcounty.smithfield-ps.org/o/old-county-road-elementary/page/monthly-calendar. Clicking on the "Add to Google Calendar" to subscribe to the calendar on your own calendar app.
School Picture Retakes, Tuesday November 22nd
Dental Screenings, Wednesday November 23rd
NO SCHOOL, Thanksgiving Break, Thursday & Friday November 24th & 25th
PTA Holiday Bazaar, Saturday December 3rd, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Town "All Lit Up" Parade, Saturday December 3rd at sundown
Thank you,
Mr. Barrette
4th grade and 1st grade students working together
