August 2015

From the Desk of Dr. Cotton

Today is the day we've spent the summer planning and preparing for! In the words of Murray Banks, "It's Showtime!" The first day of school is a day of excitement...in all that you do today (and every day), remember the importance of who you are to the students in your classroom and how your motivation and excitement transfers to them. Have a fantastic first day - I'm excited to visit your classrooms to see meaningful learning and to work with you and your students as we make 2015-2016 the best school year yet!


 

Get your craft supplies and creativity ready! 

This year's holiday tree in the Governor's Mansion will be a celebration of Virginia's localities and Henry County wants your ornament design. Craft an ornament (6" or smaller) that depicts a unique feature of the county and submit it to Monica Hatchett by Friday, September 4. One ornament will be selected to be sent to the Executive Mansion as Henry County's submission.

Secure project funding

 

Looking for ways to fund some exciting learning experiences for your students this school year? Check out Edutopia's Big List of Educational Grants and Resources.

Share your feedback

The Virginia Department of Education is asking parents and other members of the public to complete a 16-item online survey on improving annual School Performance Report Cards for schools, school divisions and the commonwealth.

The survey takes 15-20 minutes to complete. Responses are anonymous.

The survey may be accessed at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/schoolreportcards and will remain active until Friday, August 14, 2015.

Make use of social media

Are you tweeting? Use these helpful tips from Education Week Teacher to help you get started and make use of this tool during the 2015-2016 school year.

Please join us

On Saturday,August 15, the Starting Strong Family Summit will take place at Jack Dalton Park from 10-12. Students and their families will join school representatives and school community partners to participate in fun activities and learn more about the student support services available for the school year. Please plan to drop by and visit!

Want to share great resources with HCPS colleagues? Send your recommendations to mhatchet@henry.k12.va.us.