Murphy School and You
Parent Newsletter January/February 2022
February 2, 8 and 18 -1:25 PM Early Dismissal
February 21 & 22 No School
Greetings Murphy Families,
We are thrilled to have our students back in school and ready to learn and grow. The first week or so back has been challenging as many have been impacted by the virus that continues to plague the greater Branford community. As you are aware from the correspondence you have received from our Superintendent Branford has once again shifted their guidelines to align with the state’s DPH and CDC. We are hopeful that these new guidelines will minimize the number of days students miss in school learning without impacting the health and well being of their classmates and staff.
These next few months are optimum learning opportunities for students.It is also the time of school year when we begin to see real shifts in student learning. They are being exposed to more challenging texts to read, and, in math, new concepts and skills are being introduced that will provide a multitude of opportunities for students to think, apply a variety of strategies to problem solve, and explore new strategies that can be added to their tool bag.
Lastly, I know Ms. Riehl has shared the Virtual Art Show with all of our families. She has created a very creative and accessible way for students to share their artwork with all of you. Take some time to sit down with your child and take a look at all the creativity that abounds at Murphy.
As always we continue to take whatever steps we need to in order to cultivate and provide a safe and nurturing learning environment where each student can thrive. It is essential that we support our student’s efforts in developing their social, emotional and academic skills each and every day.
Warm regards,
Robin
Send in a Change of Clothes This time of year we continue to encourage outdoor recess weather permitting. However the playgrounds have a tendency to be wet and muddy. Kids being kids they tend to slip and fall while running around and playing. It is a very good idea to send your child in with a change of clothes that include; top, bottom, undergarments, socks and shoes. Best cast scenario they never need them. Worst case they have what they need to change and be comfortable the rest of the day. Please have them bring their clothes in a sealed plastic bag marked with their name.
Be a SOUPer Hero! Murphy students will be collecting cans of soup for the entire month of January to be donated to the Branford Food Pantry. A number of our Branford neighbors and friends utilize the Community Dining Room and rely on the Branford Food Pantry to provide meals and nourishment for families in need. All of our classrooms will be participating. It is a friendly competition and, no matter who or how many participate, the clear winner will be the Branford Food Pantry. So please consider sending in some cans of soup or stew with your child.
Murphy School Based Health Center Yale New Haven Health
· Is your child ill and in need of medication for an Earache? Cough? Fever? Pink eye?...
· Is your child due for a physical? Need vaccinations? Was your child injured on the Playground?
This Yale New Haven Health pediatric office is located within Murphy Elementary, next to the school nurse.
· All insurances accepted · No Copays · Same day appointments
· No insurance? No problem, the SBHC insurance will cover the visit
What families are saying about us:
“very helpful for working parents!” “the appointment was first thing in the morning so I didn’t have to miss work” and “Very easy to get an appointment!”
“Wonderful program! Anyone that does not have their child enrolled is missing out, caregivers are great and have excellent communication with families.”
Follow this link for SBHC information. https://www.branfordschools.org/page/school-based-health-center
The PTA for the entire month of January will be taking Murphy Spirit Wear orders again for those that missed it or if you would like to order some more, order forms are attached for you again. In February we are working on a “sweet collaboration” fundraiser so stay tuned, details should be announced in another week. PTA is not all about board members, we are announcing new committees soon, so stay tuned if you are interested in being on one of MTM 2021-2022 Committees, we have lots of great opportunities for parents and staff.