Dear DeSales Family,
Well, usually at this time of year I write about impending snow and how we can tell it is about to make an appearance, but, as we have seen this week, we already have been visited by the white splendor that makes Western New York so special. OK, so maybe I am understating the monster that some are calling "Snowvember." Yet, let us remember that we are blessed that it has missed us and also let us keep those who have been buried by the snow in our prayers. As such I feel that it is a great time to re-visit both winter and regular school safety concerns.
Ø Please remember that all of our little ones walk through the parking lot in some form or fashion and they do not always look before moving on. As a rule make sure that you enter and exit the lot through the designated lanes and that you adhere to a maximum speed of no more than five miles per hour.
Ø Please allow some extra time for students to get into class in the morning as they are wearing a few more clothes, and so is everyone else in the school. If you have never seen an elementary school hall the day of a first real snow, it looks as if a tornado has hit with kids and clothes everywhere.
Ø With the previous in mind, please be sensitive to the time of teachers immediately before and after school. The time is designed for daily preparation and brief student questions. Unfortunately, they often do not have time to accommodate drop-in parent conferences. It is always best to either call, e-mail, or drop a line to schedule a conference. As a school, it is our goal to reply to all communication, at the latest, in 24 hours.
Ø In the rare case that DeSales Catholic School is going to close because of inclement weather we will publicize this on all major television stations and, in all instances, if the Lockport City School District is closed because of inclement weather, DeSales is closed.
We have been hearing growing concern about driving in and around DeSales. Over the years we have discussed many of the different rules and regulations of traffic safety as they apply to the roads around DeSales and, while I am happy to bring them forward again, the most important issue at stake here is the safety of our children.
Ø Please remember that passing a school stopped school bus, even with a permanent divider in the road is illegal.
Ø The streets around DeSales Catholic School are designated as a school zone and, as such, reduced speed is very important.
Ø When entering and exiting the parking lot, please make extra sure that there are no children present as little ones tend to hide behind bushes and such and rarely look before running.
It is only through working together and with the guiding grace of our Savior that we can continue to ensure the safety and well-being of our future.
Stay Warm,
Scott
