CC Meneley Elementary School

Regular Hours: 8:50 AM - 3:10 PM 
Daily Breakfast: 8:30 - 8:45 AM
(supervised recess begins at 8:30 AM)
Minimum Day Hours: 8:50 AM - 12:40 PM

90 Minute Late Start Day Hours: 10:20 AM - 3:10 PM (buses will run 90 minutes later on the Staff PLC Late Start Days)

Dear Families,

I wanted to reach out on behalf of the staff at C.C. Meneley to see how our children and parents are doing. This is a very challenging time. Our kids are just as scared and anxious as we are right now. We have never experienced anything like this before. Our children can hear everything that is happening around them. They can feel and see our tension, frustration and nervousness.

At first, kids were probably very excited about the idea of being out of school. This is not a normal break. The reality of being stuck at home with very limited outside interaction is very hard for all of us. They aren’t seeing their friends. With this, comes an increase in problem behavior. That is normal. Remember to use the language about being safe, respectful and responsible.

What all of our kids need right now, more than ever, is to feel loved and cared for. When we ask, “how you are doing?”, we are sincerely asking. We have a counselor and licensed social workers that are here to support families. If your child(ren) becomes frustrated, overwhelmed or upset, please consider reaching out to utilize them. Play outside and go on walks. Bake cookies and paint pictures. Play board games and watch movies. Do a science experiment together or find virtual field trips to the zoo. Start a book and read together as a family. Have dance parties, look through photos of previous adventures, and look at the stars in the night sky together.

Many of us can’t help but think about our children’s academics. There are millions of students in this same situation. We want to continue to engage with students and move them forward. All of our teachers and staff are available to support kids. If you have not yet communicated with them, please do so via a phone call, email message or Class Dojo. We all know that there may be some regression and that is okay. When are back to the classroom, we will do what we do best and help get students back to where they need to be. Be flexible with your child(ren) and take time to enjoy the slower pace of life.

At the end of all of this, your child(ren’s) mental health and well-being is more important than academics. How they are feeling and the memories of this time away from school will stay with them far longer than what they did academically. Know that we are here to support in whatever we can through these unique times. Every challenging time provides opportunities for growth and reflection. I know that I want my reflection to be that our school community grew, people cared for each other, and that people were able to spend time together and make great memories. “A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor”. -African Proverb

Together in education,

Blaine Spires