A Parent's Prayer

Help me give my children the best... not of trappings or toys,
but of myself, cherishing them on good days and bad, theirs and mine.

Teach me to accept them for who they are, not for what they do; to listen to what they say, if only so they will listen to me; to encourage their goals, not mine; and please, let me laugh with them and be silly.

Let me give them a home where respect is the cornerstone,
integrity the foundation, and there is enough happiness to raise the roof.

May I give them the courage to be true to themselves; the independence to take care of themselves and the faith to believe in a Power much greater than their own.

See that I discipline my children without demeaning them, demand good manners without forgetting my own and let them know they have limitless love, no matter what they do.

Let me feed them properly, clothe them adequately and have enough to give them small allowances... not for the work they do but the pleasure they bring.

And let me be moderate in all these things,
so the joy of getting will help them discover the joy of giving.

See that their responsibilities are real but not burdensome,
that my expectations are high but not overwhelming and that my thanks and praise are thoughtful and given when they're due.

Help me teach them that excellence is work's real reward,
and not the glory it brings. But when it comes, and it will, let me
revel in each honor, however small, without once pretending
that it's mine; my children are glories enough.

Above all, let me ground these children so well that I can
dare to let them go. And may they be so blessed.

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Some Safety Tips for Parents in Talking to Children about Violence

High profile acts of violence, particularly in schools, can confuse and frighten children who may feel in danger or worry that their friends or loved-ones are at risk. They will look to adults for information and guidance on how to react. Parents and school personnel can help children feel safe by establishing a sense of normalcy and security and talking with them about their fears.

Reassure children that they are safe. Emphasize that schools are very safe. Validate their feelings. Explain that all feelings are okay when a tragedy occurs. Let children talk about their feelings, help put them into perspective, and assist them in expressing these feelings appropriately.

Make time to talk. Let their questions be your guide as to how much information to provide. Be patient. Children and youth do
not always talk about their feelings readily. Watch for clues that they may want to talk, such as hovering around while you do the dishes or yard work. Some children prefer writing, playing music, or doing an art project as an outlet. Young children may need concrete activities (such as drawing, looking at picture books, or imaginative play) to help them identify and express their feelings.

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ABSENCE GUIDELINES

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Just a reminder: Any time a student is absent, parents/guardians are asked to do the following:

1) Call school (215 269-1490) in the MORNING by 8:30 AM

2) Identify yourself, your child/adolescent’s name

3) Leave a message stating the reason she/he will be absent for the day.

For very important legal and safety purposes, we also need a signed letter or form in writing from you stating two important topics:

Date(s) of Absence: __________________________

Reason for the absence: ______________________

You have been provided absentee forms to make this process easy for you. 

In cases where a student is absent 3 or more consecutive days, a doctor’s note is needed.

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The Development Council of Archangels Academy School of Special Education

The purpose of the Development Council at Archangels Academy is to support the school’s mission by fostering the growth and development of the students and the school’s programs and to promote the objectives of education for all children with cognitive disabilities. We can do this through various activities, events and fundraisers.

CURRENT EVENTS:

This year’s first fund raising event will be held on November 7th 2008 starting at 6:30 pm at Immaculate Conception’s Social Hall. We are calling this event “Haunted Basket Bingo”.

We, the Development Council members, are requesting a donation from your establishment in the form of store goods, services, check, or gift card. Archangels Academy is an Archdiocesan School and has tax exempt status. On behalf of the School and the children of Archangels Academy School of Special Education.

We sincerely thank you for your donation and support this 2008/2009 school year.

God bless you and God bless our school.

Sincerely,
Jose Rodriguez
Vice-president
Dcaptain77@msn.com
Ph: (215)435-7442