Our 2024-25 school year is upon us and Questa del Rio News wants to share some information and tips from our local schools for parents and students, for a good start to the school year.
The school year for Questa Independent School District as well as Red River Valley Charter School begins August 5, with both schools on a four-day school week. Roots and Wings Community School begins August 13, operating on a 4-day a week hybrid schedule.
The beginning of the school year can be exciting for some and somewhat daunting for others. Getting prepared both physically and mentally for the beginning of school can help with those first day jitters.
Here are some tips for a good start to the school year.
Get good rest: No matter how old you are, sleep is probably one of the most important things you can give yourself. For kids and teens it’s even more important. The National Sleep Foundation recommends that children 6 to 13 years old get anywhere between 9 and 11 hours of sleep per night and for teens 14 to 17 years old, 8 to 10 hours are recommended. Early to bed, early to rise!
Establish a routine: Kids thrive on routine. They like to know what to expect and what lies ahead. If you don’t have one already, consider setting a routine for your child which could include some down time like reading, bath, and picking out clothes for the next day.
Create healthy eating habits: Provide your child with good, healthy snacks. Fruits (dried or fresh), vegetables, nuts, cheese, even beef jerky can provide that extra boost of energy and mental capacity to finish out the day.
Give your child some independence: Kids love making decisions and having a say. They feel empowered when they do so. For younger kids, consider giving them an opportunity to pick their own clothes or snack for the next day. Give them a few options and allow them to make the choice and pack it on their own.
Unplug before bedtime: Giving your child a chance to unwind before bed. By reading a story, drawing, or calm play can give them the downtime they need for a restful night.
Communication: Communicate with your child and his or her teacher. This is key for a successful school year. For example, for our juniors and seniors this could mean making sure you know and they know how many credits they need to stay on schedule for the year or what important tests may be coming up. You know your child best. Read their signals. If they begin to struggle in the classroom, schedule some time to talk with teachers.
Celebrate the new school year. Get your child excited about the school year by having a little party or special dinner. Also, take advantage of the free community offerings like back-to-school events and free haircuts. For Alta Vista Elementary, basic school supplies were purchased through a New Mexico Public Education Department Family Income Fund to help all students. A few things are still needed, so check the individual school websites for a full list of school supplies. Alta Vista Principle Ms. Deyhle says, “We are ready for Alta Vista Wildcats to reach for the stars.” Good luck to all our students this year!
The following information on schools’ mission statements was found on our local schools’ websites.
Questa Independent School Mission
Challenge all students to accelerate their learning through rigorous instruction.
Red River Valley Charter School Mission
To provide every student the opportunity to develop academically, socially and physically through quality learning experiences, utilizing the Core Knowledge Curriculum. The Red River Valley Charter School philosophy of education is to create a foundation for self-initiated, life-long learning.
Roots and Wings Community School Mission
Our mission is to inspire our students to academic and personal excellence. Our innovative learning community creates classroom, farm and wilderness adventure—engaging the head, hands, and heart. Enabling students to achieve more than they think possible and to take an active role in our ever-changing world.
