January Principal Newsletter

JANUARY PRINCIPAL NEWSLETTER

Happy New Year!!! It may be 5 degrees and windy in Harlem, however we have the comfort of watching snowflakes falling while sipping on a delicious marshmallow filled cup of hot chocolate.  I love WINTER!!!  Having survived the first term, we stand ready to finish the school year with confidence.  My hope is that you too, will look forward to the challenges of the new term.  Build on your achievements and put away your past disappointments.

The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to refresh—whether you want to jumpstart your personal goals, make meaningful decisions at home and with your school work, or find your inner-center.  This is the perfect time to stop playing old messages about who we think we are and make a bold statement to record a new, improved message. 

Beginning this month, and throughout the month of February we are hosting open houses for prospective Pre-kindergarten and Kindergarten families. (The deadline to apply for Kindergarten is January 12, 2018.) It is our desire to share with the community all the amazing things taking place here at the RBS.  We earned the distinction of being rated as the “top performing elementary school” and now we need to open our doors and share how we earned that grade.

Please be sure to check our school website on a regular basis for up-to-date information. 

Unfortunately, during the winter months many schools across New York City notice a drop in their attendance average.  Parents/caregivers, please continue to reinforce good attendance habits with your son/daughter.  Attendance and accuracy of attendance is extremely important in school.  Excessive absences may result in missing work, which is difficult to make up, losing continuity in school work, and poor grades during the grading period.

It is our desire that the second half of the school year be excellent for all.  If you need to meet with the dean, parent coordinator, after-school supervisor, or myself do not hesitate to contact us.  We suggest that parents/caregivers call first to schedule appointments before coming in so that you will not experience any delays.

Throughout 2018 you will see changes based on feedback from families, all driven by your desire to make the RBS the shining star of Harlem.  Every step we take in this journey we will do together to make our community stronger, wiser and better for our children.

Stay warm and know that sounds of birds chirping is not that far away.

Educationally yours,

Reggie Higgins