Dallin Digest Newsletter
From the APS School Nurses
12/6/2024 7:08 am
On behalf of the APS Elementary School Nurses, we are excited to share our FIRST monthly newsletter with you. Each month we will share health information, APS health office happenings, useful
links, and other important information that you need to know. It has been a spectacular Fall with lots of sunshine and warm days. The children have been enjoying lots of time outdoors. The students will get outside to play, as long as it is not too wet or too cold. Please remember as the days start to get colder, children should be dressed to be comfortable to be outside for 20 minutes. Jackets, hats, and gloves/mittens are recommended. If your family is in need of winter clothing, please reach out to their school nurse. We have lots of resources!
In good health,
The APS Elementary Nurse Team
Please read the attached newsletter for more information on:
Respiratory Illness Information
When to Keep Your Child Home From School...the APS Illness Guidelines
Winter classroom celebrations: Food should not be served, provided, or sent home
How much water do children need?
The SNAP Health Portal
November Health Awareness
Helpful Links
Read More
Arlington SEPAC December News
12/6/2024 7:06 am
[REMINDER] Next Monthly SEPAC Meeting
December 10, 2024 | 7:30pm - 8:30pm | Zoom (info at bottom of this email)
The SEPAC monthly meeting is the 2nd Tuesday of every month; so mark your calendars! December’s meeting will be a voting membership meeting (Arlington parents and caregivers only).
[SEPAC WEBINAR] How and When to Go to Mediation Over an IEP
Presenter: Bureau of Special Education Appeals (BSEA)
January 21, 2025 | 7:30-8:30pm | Zoom (info at bottom of this email)
Arlington SEPAC will be hosting the BSEA, who will present about Special Education Mediation and/or Individualized Education Plan (IEP) Facilitation. The presentation will cover how and when to request a mediation as well as how to prepare for and what to expect from mediation at the BSEA.
[RESOURCES] Understanding IEP’s vs. 504s
Wondering about the options for providing support for your child at school? Check out these resources which help demystify the differences between an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and a 504 Plan.
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Example 504 accommodations (courtesy of Cambridge Public Schools)
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Section 504 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (from the Dept. of Elementary and Secondary Education - DESE)
New Federal Guidance on the Use of Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs) to Create Supportive Learning Environments
Student behaviors that interfere with learning and an overreliance on exclusionary discipline continue to be among the top concerns of educators and families. The Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) and the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education (OESE) are jointly offering updated guidance on the use of functional behavioral assessments (FBAs) for all students – not just those with disabilities – whose behavior interferes with learning. Learn more
[WEBINAR] Executive Function: The Basics
Wednesday, January 8, 2025 | 7:00–8:00 p.m. | FREE
Presenter: Margot Marcou, Executive Education Coach
Get an introduction to Executive Function (EF), the ability to get and stay organized, prioritize, manage time, and so much more. Learn about EF’s core components with insights from key researchers on practical skills to strengthen EF weaknesses. This webinar is geared toward parents and caregivers as well as students and adults to better understand the role of EF in the cognitive processes that impact everyday life. Register
[WEBINAR] My Kid Won’t Go to School – Now What?
Host / Presenter: PPAL
Thursday, Dec. 5th | 6:00 - 8:00 PM | Zoom (Register)
Are you one of the many families struggling with a child who doesn’t want to go to school? Or maybe they go but don’t stay? Are you on a first name basis with the school nurse? Maybe you’re at odds with your child or their school? Join PPAL to explore how to “wrap our heads around” this challenge while maintaining the number one priority: our relationship with our child! Register
[PROGRAM] New Balance Foundation Adaptive Sports Winter Programs
The New Balance Foundation Adaptive Sports Program at Franciscan Children’s has announced its winter programs. They will be offering adaptive Dance, Martial Arts, Gymnastics, and Wheelchair Basketball. Check out flyers
Questions? Please contact Paul Ward, Director of Adaptive Sports, Franciscan Children’s
Phone: (617) 254-3800 Ext. 5475
[RESOURCE] Family Holiday Activity Bundle: 7 Activities to Support Family Well-being This Holiday Season
This free resource, featuring 7 activities designed to foster moments of connection, dialogue, and well-being this holiday season. Inside you'll find simple activities focused on:
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Sharing Stories & Listening Wholeheartedly
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Cultivating Gratitude
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Inspiring Kindness
In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)
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[RESOURCE] Basic Rights and Legal Protections in Special Education (presentation shared by Somerville SEPAC)
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[WEBINAR] Raising Resilient and Confident Kids in the Age of Achievement Culture: 12/4 @7pm | Registration link
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[RESOURCE] Preparing Your Child for the New IEP Process: Get a discussion guide
================== SEPAC ZOOM INFO==========================
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/
Meeting ID: 854 1205 2274
Passcode: 378204
Join by phone: 309 205 3325
Fall Garden Cleanup and Winter Gear Swap
12/6/2024 7:05 am
Thank you to all who participated in the Fall Garden Clean up and Winter Gear Swap! We collected a total of 89 different items from boots to snow pants to be exchanged and had a number of families “shop” for gear! Kids were excited to get new-to-them gear and we shared stories of pre-loved items as they were passed on. We appreciate the generous donations and for anything that wasn’t taken on the day, we were able to fill 3 bags of donations for local families. In addition, the fall garden clean-up in the warm sunshine was equally successful! Volunteers saw to it that the garden beds were tended to, leaf mulch dispersed and a variety of spring bulbs planted around the grounds. We even found some bonus carrots in the beds. Look for many daffodils and irises sprouting in the spring. A big thanks to all who help organize and/or attended the clean-up.
Arlington Heights Holiday Stroll & Tree Lighting
12/6/2024 7:02 am
Saturday, December 14, 2:00pm-5:00pm (rain or shine)
The Arlington Heights Community Association (AHCA) in collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce is pleased to present our fourth Arlington Heights Holiday Stroll & Tree Lighting on Saturday, December 14, 2:00-5:00pm. Free for all!
Visitors of all ages are invited to stroll along Mass Avenue from Shattuck Heights Hardware to Maruichi Japanese Food and Deli and view 60+ winter-themed windows painted by Arlington residents in 26 storefronts. Free family fun activities will take place throughout the afternoon. Explore the vibrant Heights business community and support our unique variety of local shops and restaurants. Visit the Chamber website for more info on the Holiday Stroll:
https://business.arlcc.org/events/details/arlington-heights-holiday-stroll-4607
From the PTO: Dallin Annual Fund
11/22/2024 7:10 am
Please support the Dallin Annual Fund for Giving Tuesday!
Every year, the Dallin PTO raises funds to provide essential resources and programs that directly benefit our students, teachers, and families.
We rely on your generous support to fund these initiatives, and we need your help to make this year a success.
This year, we hope to raise $25,000 through the Dallin Annual Fund. This represents roughly 65% of our annual fundraising goal.
Here’s what the PTO provides for our community:
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Field trip costs for all kids, ranging from the Museum of Science to Zoo New England
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Stipends for supplies in each classroom, such as rugs, wipes, and tissues
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Enrichment activities like the Dallin Hourglass and Menotomy Day activities
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Library books, art materials, music supplies, and wellness/PE equipment
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Room representative funds for teacher and specialist holiday and year-end gifts
Learn more about how we spend our money here; to donate, visit:
Checks to “Dallin PTO” can be left with Mrs. Burns.
From the Music classroom
11/22/2024 7:09 am
Hi, my dear Dallin students. It's Ms. Kim. As I think back on my time here, I can't help but remember all the moments I shared with you––from my first day here to now. Each and every one of those moments was so valuable, precious, and filled with joy.
Although I'm still early in my teaching career and gaining experience every day, my biggest hope was always to make our music classes fun, meaningful, and memorable for you. Thank you for being such a wonderful part of my journey––I truly can't wait to see all the amazing things you will accomplish in the future.
You are all so special and incredible, and as my last message to you, I want to say this: Whatever you do, don't be afraid to take on challenges. Mistakes and failures are part of life, but they're also stepping stones to growth. Learn from them and keep moving forward––you've got this!
I wish everyone the best of luck in everything you do. Take care and keep making beautiful music!
With love,
Ms. Kim
Specialist Teacher Winter Appreciation
11/22/2024 7:08 am
TASC Turkey Trot
11/22/2024 7:07 am
TASC 4th Annual Turkey Trot to benefit The Greater Somerville Homeless Coalition.
On Tuesday, November 26th @ 3:30 the children and staff of The AfterSchool Connection will trot, run or walk around the block (Florence Ave to Rhinecliff St. to Dow Ave. to Wachusett Ave. to Florence Ave.) to benefit the Somerville Homeless Coalition. This is a rain or shine event. Dallin students are welcome to join us with a small donation to the coalition. A QR code can be found on the attached flyer. Thank you for your support.
Happy Thanksgiving!
AEF Winter Stars
11/22/2024 7:06 am
AEF STAR Certificate for the person you choose to recognize. Recognize 4 or more people and each STAR is $15. Robbins Farm Park Reopening
11/22/2024 7:05 am
The Recreation Department and the Park and Recreation Commission cordially invite you to attend the ribbon cutting for the (partial) opening of Robbins Farm Park.
When: Saturday, November 23rd at 9:30 a.m.
This will be the Town's first playground utilizing universal design principles and is intended to be accessible for individuals with varying abilities. The renovation project is primarily funded by the Community Preservation Act, American Rescue Plan Act funds, with support from the Friends of Robbins Farm Park, community members, and local businesses
Speakers Include
Eric Helmuth, Arlington Select Board member
Sue Doctrow, Co-Chair, Community Preservation Act Committee
Natasha Waden, Recreation Director
James Hampe, Friends of the Robbins Farm Park
Julia Kenerson, Arlington Resident
The landscape architects, Agency Landscape and Planning and the contractor J.J. Phelan & Son Company will be in attendance.
Coffee and donuts will be served and the park will be open to all.
The event is rain or shine
No RSVP required, just show up and enjoy the fun!
Read MoreBasketball Free Throw contest
11/22/2024 7:04 am
Basketball Free Throw Contest
Location: Arlington Boys & Girls Club, 60 Pond Lane, Arlington, MA
Hosted by: Arlington Lodge of Elks Lodge # 1435
Date: Sunday, November 24th, 2024 Time: 1:00 - 3:00 pm Register at 12:30 pm
Director: Barbara Lynch Contact: 617-776-8575
For ages 8 to 13. More info visit: elks.org/hoopshoot
From the Assistant Principal: PTO-supported assemblies
11/15/2024 7:15 am
Dallin families,
Our students have experienced some wonderful assemblies in the last month thanks to your financial support of Dallin’s PTO. Here are some highlights:
An Irish music and dance troupe from County Clare visited Dallin in late October. Tigh na Coille, which is made up of 22 students ages 11-19 and 2 teacher leaders, did a whole-school performance - they played a variety of instruments, sang traditional Irish music, and performed several dances. Rounding out our time together, their leader asked everyone to join in a dance and many students and staff joined in. It was a joyful way to end our time with them.
Much to my surprise, they got almost everyone up and dancing - safely!
Following the performance, they transitioned into a 2nd grade music class where they demonstrated instruments and taught students some Irish dances.
The PTO then fed them pizza and they were off to begin their two-week tour.
Here is a video of the Irish teens who came to Boston on tour in Bulgaria last Spring.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p7dIzBYhalQ
Our wonderful librarians, Ms. Troja and Ms. Aaronson, brought in an engaging local author, Rob Buyea, who was a hit! He shared several stories that got big laughs from the students (and had at least one administrator hoping that they weren’t listening too closely). He has a handful of series that your student may enjoy reading, especially if they are reluctant readers.
And finally, last Friday author Jason Viola joined Dallin for 3 assemblies that highlighted how he got interested in drawing and writing comics (Garfield), where he gets his ideas, and how his books get to print. He began drawing comics when he was about 8 years old and finds his inspiration in the natural world through the lens of pop culture.
Several Dallin actors got to do a quick reading.
So, Dallin families, thank you for making these opportunities available to our students (and adults). We always learn so much with our visitors and it enriches our days at school.
Best,
Sam
Winter Gear Swap & Garden Clean-up Tomorrow
11/15/2024 7:09 am
Join the Dallin community for a joint Winter Gear Swap & Garden Clean-up at Dallin this Saturday, November 16th from 9am - 11am.
For the Winter Gear Swap: donations can be dropped off in the labeled box in the Dallin lobby today or bring to the event. Please share unwanted gear in children's sizes, washed and in good condition. We are accepting the following items: winter gloves, winter hats, winter boots, winter jackets, snow pants, heavy socks, scarves and neck warmers. If you have any questions about acceptable items or if you would like to arrange a house drop-off, please contact Anne Hurley at Alehurley@gmail.com.
For the Garden Clean Up: a range of activities around the Dallin grounds including mulching, winterizing the garden beds, planting bulbs, weeding, raking leaves and cleaning up Florence Field are planned. Please bring your own garden tools (wheel barrows, gloves, shovels, trowels, & rakes for both mulching and leaves). Stay for as little or long as you can!
Resources and events from Arlington SEPAC
11/15/2024 7:08 am
The Arlington Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) is a parent group that acts as a resource for parents and advises the district regarding meeting the needs of students with disabilities.
[RESOURCE] Preparing Your Child for the New IEP Process
There is a new IEP rolling out this school year! A new element includes making students part of the process with the goal of supporting an asset based mindset and ensuring each child has the opportunity for self-advocacy. This helpful resource from one of our very own APS staff members can help your child prepare! Got questions about an upcoming IEP meeting? Please contact your Team Chair.
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[SEPAC WEBINAR] Next week! Advocating for your Child – Meeting the Mental Health Needs of Students in School
Wednesday, Nov. 20th | Zoom (info below)
Arlington SEPAC is hosting the Parent Professional Advocacy League (PPAL) who will give parents/caregivers a foundation for advancing their advocacy skills throughout their child’s Special Education journey and during the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process. Topics include: how to identify, document and communicate your concerns, evaluations, support plans, team meetings and letter writing with the focus on the student’s emotional/behavioral/mental health challenges and the support that students may need to access the curriculum and life of the school.
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/
Meeting ID: 854 1205 2274
Passcode: 378204
Join by phone: 309 205 3325
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[RESOURCE] Basic Rights and Legal Protections in Special Education
The Somerville SEPAC has generously shared the slide deck for a recent presentation regarding basic rights and legal protections for parents who have concerns about their child’s education. It also discusses the evaluation process and responsibilities of district and school staff as well as the role of parents. Arlington SEPAC will be hosting a basic rights webinar in January.
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[WEBINAR] Cartwheel Webinars on Mental Health and Resilience
Can We Talk? How to Have Conversations with Kids about Mental Health
Nov. 13 @7pm | Registration link
Raising Resilient and Confident Kids in the Age of Achievement Culture
Dec. 4th @7pm | Registration link
About Cartwheel: Cartwheel partners with APS to provide students and families with rapid access to mental health assessments, evidence-based therapy, medication management and consultation, and parent/guardian guidance. To learn more about Cartwheel's services, please contact a member of your school’s counseling or guidance team.
Read More
Lost and Found Clean Out- November 22
11/15/2024 7:07 am
