As a new school year approaches, it is of utmost importance that a safe learning environment be provided for our students.
In an ongoing effort to protect our children, the Voorhees Township Committee and our schools continue to work together. At our meeting on Aug. 19, the committee adopted an ordinance that will put police officers in all of our public schools. While there has always been an officer at Eastern Regional High School, there will now be a police presence at Voorhees Middle School, E.T. Hamilton School, Kresson School, Osage School and Signal Hill School.
Police Chief Lou Bordi has been at the forefront of school security. He and other members of his staff have attended several seminars and have worked with school officials to make sure the most current security measures are in place.
Our children are our most important assets and they must be protected.
Returning to school after a relaxing summer can be a trying experience for both children and parents. The American Academy of Pediatrics offers help and safety tips to ease back into the school year.
The first few days are always emotional, especially for younger children. Parents should emphasize the positive aspects of starting school. Remind children of the fun of seeing old friends and meeting new ones. Find another child in the neighborhood with whom your youngster can walk to school or ride with on the bus.
It is important to develop good homework and study habits. Create an environment that is conducive to doing homework. Youngsters need a permanent workspace in a bedroom or a part of the home that offers privacy. Set aside ample time for homework. Establish a household rule that the TV stays off during homework time. Always be available to answer questions and offer assistance. To help alleviate eye fatigue, neck fatigue and brain fatigue while studying, children should take a 10-minute break for every hour of study.
Too often, we hear of tragic accidents involving school buses. Children should wait for the bus to completely stop before approaching it from the curb. Never move around on the bus; always check to see that no other traffic is coming before crossing. Make sure to always remain in clear view of the bus driver.
When traveling to and from school in a car, all passengers should wear a seatbelt or use an age and size-appropriate car safety seat or booster seat. All children under 13 years of age should ride in the rear of the vehicle.
Have a safe and happy school year!
**The next show in our Summer Twilight Series is Aug. 29 (rain date Aug. 30) when a group of local talented artists performs some new and classic rock songs. Cocktail Party Phenomenon includes a full horn section and mini-choir of incredibly talented vocalists. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. at Connolly Park and is free.
** Voorhees Township is offering discounted tickets to Morey’s Piers in Wildwood. Tickets are available in the Municipal Clerk’s Office at Voorhees Town Hall. Prices vary according to the type of ticket and several options are available to residents and non-residents. Voorhees also offers discounted tickets to Clementon Lake Park via our online services. For more information about tickets or to order online, visit www.voorheesnj.com.
** The Farmer’s Market at the Voorhees Town Center is open from 8 a.m. until noon every Saturday rain or shine through Oct. 5. Vendors include Duffield’s, Fruitwood, Bellview Winery and more, supplying “Jersey Fresh” and locally grown produce, meats, cheeses, wines and more.
