Schoolchildren are well aware: Time really flies when you're having fun.
They've had their fun. The time, almost three months of it, has flown, and now the piper must be paid. They'll return to school over the next three weeks as Utah's 40 districts reconvene for the 1994-95 academic year.The schedule for first school days, as posted by the State Office of Education, includes:
Aug. 19: San Juan.
Aug. 22: Beaver, Grand, Iron, Morgan, Murray, Nebo, Piute, Provo, Sevier, Washington.
Aug. 23: Emery, North Sanpete, North Summit, Uintah, Wasatch.
Aug. 24: Alpine, Kane, Logan, Millard, Ogden, Tintic, Wayne, Weber.
Aug. 25: Juab, Tooele.
Aug. 29: Box Elder, Carbon, Daggett, Davis, Duchesne, Garfield, Granite, Jordan, Park City, Rich.
Aug. 30: Salt Lake.
Aug. 31: South Sanpete.
Sept. 6: Cache, South Summit.
Thousands of Utah children started school earlier to meet year-round schedules. But motorists need to be aware that the number will multiply as all schools go into session. Caution should be the rule in all school areas, particularly in posted areas.
Parents also can help children have a more positive school experience by preparing to take an active part.
The National PTA offers the following tips for parents to help students ease back into school programs and activities:
As school starts:
- Check with your doctor to make sure your child has received the appropriate immunizations.
- Establish school-day routine, about a week before school actually starts, for bedtime and waking.
- Review basic safety rules, such as crossing streets, what to do in an emergency and where to stand when waiting for the school bus.
- Review the safest route to walk to school or to the bus stop.
- Gradually increase the amount of responsibility and independence your child assumes.
Once school begins:
- Ask your child's teacher to give you a list of school supplies.
- Get acquainted with your child's teacher. Ask the teacher about the curriculum and classroom activities and how you can support your child's learning.
- Limit the time your children spend watching TV.
- Provide quiet, private work spaces where children can study undisturbed.
- Ask your children to read their textbooks and pleasure-reading books to you while you perform household activities. When they complete a section, discuss your children's ideas, questions or thoughts.
- Be sure to attend "Back-to-School Night" events.
- Remember that your attitude toward school will influence how your child feels. If your child expresses doubts or fears, don't ignore them. Answer questions in a positive, reassuring way. By preparing ahead of time, parents can make the return to school a learning and growing experience for each child.