School Safety Update

It's been a while since I've posted this but with everything that has been going on I thought throwing a reminder out there would be a good idea. I have invited all forms of law enforcement to stop by SCMS at any time just to be seen and talk to the kids. This has been my policy since I've been here at SCMS. My goal is that students will feel at ease in talking to police officers and see that they are people just like you and I. Don't be surprised or think something is wrong if you happen to drive by and see a police car parked outside SCMS. This morning we had a small fender bender that involved two parents and the police were called. I few people saw the police and wanted to know what was going on...what was wrong. I think we're all a little on edge right now. Hang in there.....winter break is almost here.

Mr. Alley is Now Jeep-Less

If you're expecting to expand your knowledge base by reading this post, you can stop now. This is strictly a personal post. For four years, I've been easy to pick out of a crowd while driving around town. I've had countless people waving (my eyes are bad, so I'm assuming they all were waving) as I drive past them. My vehicle was a bit distinctive. A silver Jeep Wrangler, wide tires, raised up and normally in the summer, with the top down. I am no longer part of that exclusive club. I've sold my Jeep. I bought it as a mid-life crisis vehicle, but now I'm finally over it and feel much more mature and practical. Now I'm just trying to decide what my next ride should be. Maybe a motorcycle (I knew the maturity wouldn't last).

Something for a Parent's Toolbox

As every parent knows...or will soon know as your kids get older, there are certain situations that you will look back on and wished you had handled differently. Many times it's just a matter of experience. I handled many, if not most, situations with my first son much differently than I did with my second and third son. The reason I'm saying all of this is that I've come across a powerpoint presentation on how or what we can say to our kids when they are dealing with a tragedy. It could be a personal tragedy, or something like what happened in Connecticut last week. When you get a chance, take a minute and review it. I thought it had some very useful ideas on how we can help our kids through a difficult time....something for your toolbox. Powerpooint

Tuesday Update

Just a quick update on the start of our week and what the rest of our week holds for us. This Thursday at 7:00 pm we will be having our Band/Choir combined concert at the P.A.C. If you get the opportunity it is well worth the time to attend, Not only does it help to get everyone in the holiday spirit, our kids will amaze you with their talent. As far as the tragedy that happened late last week and how that has affected us, we met with our teachers / staff prior to school starting Monday to review safety procedures and provide resources for responding to student concerns regarding Sandy Hook elementary and or own school. Please know that we continue to monitor, practice and look for areas to improve our safety procedures at SCMS. As life seems to be speeding up by the minute, I know that I don’t take near the time I should to slow down and thank those around me for letting me be part of their lives. Please take a minute and make that phone call that you’ve been putting off to let someone know that you’ve been thinking of them. The SCMS staff wishes all of our extended family a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Parent Letter. Please Read

Parent Letter (I oouldn't get the link in the posting below to work)

Sandy Hook Elementary School

It is impossible for me to put into words my thoughts/feelings for what happened last Friday at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut. What I can do is try to assure you that we take the safety of all of our students very seriously and have policies/procedures in place to deal with unfortunate situations. Please click on the following link to read a letter that addresses this tragedy and how we are dealing with the aftermath. Parent Letter

7:12.....The Party is Still Going

The kids are having a blast at this Activity Night. As I wander out of the safety of my office, I see lots of running around and sugar so when they get home they will smell and won't be able to sleep. We should do more of these.............