Principal Update 

January 21, 2024 

Dear PHS Families, 

As we look ahead to next week our temperatures appear much warmer and we are excited to get outside once again! It is always challenging when our students do not have this opportunity during our cold days. As always, please make sure your child comes to school dressed for the weather. 

Thank you to all parents who attended our School Council and Society meetings last Thursday evening. Your involvement makes a difference, by adding enhancements and support to student learning.  

Disability Awareness and Diversity Acceptance Presentations 

During the weeks of January 22nd and February 5th, all K to 5 students will partake in Variety’s Disability Awareness and Diversity Acceptance Education Program. This program is based on the belief that barriers can be removed through education, increased awareness and creating environments of acceptance, understanding, and celebration of differences. We know that misunderstood beliefs can be a huge barrier to acceptance and when we openly talk about people living with disabilities and/or differences; how they overcome obstacles; and how we can make the world a more inclusive place, then we begin to break down stereotypes and negative perceptions that exist. This free empathy-based program introduces the concept of disability and diversity to children. Using direct, interactive workshops led by a person with a disability themselves, Just Like You™ challenges misconceptions and provides a new lens for seeing disability and diversity in a positive, affirmative way. 

IXL 

We are pleased to offer students access to IXL, which will provide additional practice at home for both reading and mathematics. Teachers will be sending home information with both login and password directions. Students will be required to complete a diagnostic assignment before beginning their practice. This allows the system to gauge the learning level and adjust to target students’ next steps in mastering concepts. This opportunity comes from our casino funding, and we appreciate those parents who volunteered to make this happen.  

Sincerely, 

Ms. Paull and Ms. Muir