A MESSAGE FROM MRS. GRETZLOCK –
COPING RESOURCES FOR DURING AN UNEXPECTED SCHOOL CLOSURE
Hello GCE Families! I hope you know how much your students will be missed by all of us at school during this school closure time - I look forward to being back together soon! I want to share some resources with you which are focused on helping your family handle the additional stress our school closure and greater changes/concerns around everyday life that people are feeling. Given this unprecedented situation in the world, I don't think any of us are entirely immune to this stress. I have listed several online resources below. If you cannot access them due to technology issues, please let me know and I will send home paper information.
Generally, I would share that all people experience stress and 'big feelings' (that's my classroom terminology with the students) during challenging times. Reactions certainly vary by age and present themselves in different ways, which can include a range from great sadness and worry to indignation and anger. We will all need to practice extra patience and grace with each other, as well as use tools to try and manage these big feelings. Elementary students are very familiar with the principles of Growth Mindset (positive attitude, perseverance, be a good learner) and the practice of Mindfulness (ask them to show you their Mindful Position and practice it) which you can reference with them - please feel free to tell them that Mrs. Gretzlock said so J
I have currently been working with your student individually, I am still available to provide connection and support throughout this time. In addition, if you find your student struggling during this time and I have not been working with them already, I am absolutely available to connect with them now. Please contact me by email (gretzpau@gcsd.k12.wi.us) or phone (715-265-6879) and we will work out the logistics of connecting and communicating. I will be checking email and messages often throughout the regular school week.
One last consideration, if your family is not currently participating in the Weekend Backpack Program (which supplies meals over weekends) but could benefit from that assistance at this time, please contact the Elementary Office at 715-265-4231 to become enrolled. Please do not hesitate to be in touch during this closure if there is anything else the school can try to be helpful with! Take good care and please give all your kiddos a HUGE HELLO from me! Paula Gretzlock
RESOURCES:
WI Department of Public Instruction:
https://dpi.wi.gov/sspw/2019-novel-coronavirus#accordion-86666-1
* Click on 'Assisting Teachers, Parents and Others - Helping Children Cope' link
SAMHSA
Coping with Stress During an Infectious Disease Outbreak
Child Mind Institute
Talking to Kids About the Coronavirus
National Association of School Psychologists
Talking to Children About COVID-19: A Parent Resource
American Academy of Pediatrics:
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/chest-lungs/Pages/2019-Novel-Coronavirus.aspx
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