September 2015

Learn more about the importance of attendance in the early grades here.

From the Desk of Dr. Cotton

Many of us have spent the last few days thinking of Alison Parker and our friends Barbara, Andy, and Drew Parker. Our community is now making plans to rally around them to honor Alison's life and legacy through memorial scholarships at PHCC and James Madison University as well as funding regular performances of the Richmond Ballet in Martinsville through Piedmont Arts Association. As you continue to comfort one another and our students as they have questions about this horrific event, please continue to keep the Parker, Ward, and Gardner families in your thoughts. Should you desire to honor Alison's memory or extend condolences to the family, please consider donating to one of the funds.

Kudos for a Coworker

Is there someone you notice going above and beyond on a regular basis? You know, that school staff person who works hard to make your school great. Honor him/her with a Superintendent's Starfish Award! Nominations are now open for fall quarter awards. Send your nomination to mhatchet@henry.k12.va.us by Wednesday, September 30.

Social Media Tips

Want to learn more about how to protect your privacy on-line? Follow these privacy tips to avoid social media concerns.

Supporting All Students

Thinking about ways to support ELL students and their families? HCPS is excited to migrate to a new school website format that will allow site visitors to translate into 20 different languages. As we work to assist students and their families with this new feature, it's important for each of us to learn more about English Language Learners as well. Check out this infographic to begin.

Strengthening the Home-School Connection

Looking for resources on how to develop meaningful partnerships with your students' families? Edutopia has a storehouse of ideas from teachers for encouraging family engagement.

A New Twist on Parent-Teacher Conferences

Thinking about ways to engage families in student support? Consider student-led conferences this year. Here's how some districts are using SLCs to strengthen home-school partnerships as teachers and families work to ensure student growth.

Let Your Voice be Heard

As we begin preparations for the January one-day Teaching and Learning Conference, we need to hear from you. What will be of benefit to you as you move into the second semester of 2015-2016? Please take a moment to provide feedback so that the conference is catered to your needs.

A Special Treat for Educators

Belk would like to offer a special discount to educators. Take this coupon and your HCPS ID to their store on September 3 for special shopping privileges.

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