Sheldon Weekly Update

Dear Sheldon Students, Parents and Families,

As we continue to work together to support our students' success, I want to send a reminder of the critical importance of regular school attendance. Being present in school is one of the most essential factors in academic achievement and personal growth.

Why Attendance Matters:

• Academic Success: Students who attend school regularly are more likely to perform well academically, stay on track with their coursework, and develop the skills necessary for post-secondary success. Missing just a few days here and there may not seem like much, but it can quickly add up, resulting in gaps in learning that can be difficult to close.

• Building Habits for Life: Regular attendance helps students develop strong time management, responsibility, and commitment—skills that will benefit them not only in school but also in their future careers and personal lives.

• Community and Connection: School is not only a place for learning, but also a community where students build relationships with peers, teachers, and staff. Consistent attendance helps students feel connected to the school community, contributing to a positive school culture where everyone feels supported and included.

At Sheldon High School, we are committed to ensuring that every student reaches their full potential. Our collective commitment to students’ education makes a world of difference. Together, we can help our students stay on the path to success.

Illness and Attendance:

While regular attendance is important, we have already experienced a wave of illness this fall. To maintain a healthy learning environment, it’s crucial that students know when to stay home, rest, and recover so they can return to school ready to learn at high levels. When a student is ill, please contact the school as soon as possible. We will excuse their absence(s) and ensure they remain in good standing.

We understand it can sometimes be confusing when deciding whether to keep a student home or send them to school. Here are some clear guidelines for when students should stay home:

• Fever: A measured temperature of 100.4°F or higher.
  May return after being fever-free for 24 hours without fever-reducing medication.

• Cough: Persistent cough not yet diagnosed or cleared by a healthcare provider, or any acute cough that interferes with school activities.
  May return after symptoms have improved for 24 hours (cough is well-controlled or minimal).

• Difficulty Breathing: Unexplained shortness of breath or labored breathing not due to exercise.
  May return after symptoms have improved for 24 hours. This may require immediate medical attention..

• Diarrhea: Three or more loose stools within 24 hours, or sudden onset of loose or bloody stools.
  May return after diarrhea has improved, with fewer than two additional bowel movements in 24 hours. Bloody diarrhea should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

• Vomiting: Two or more unexplained episodes in 24 hours.
  May return after symptoms have resolved.

These guidelines help protect both students and staff, ensuring that our school remains a safe and healthy environment for everyone.

Thank you for your cooperation and ongoing support in prioritizing both your child’s well-being and education.

Schedule for Next Week

One area that some students and families have found challenging is adjusting to the new alternating A/B day schedule. We alternate between A and B days throughout the week, and our schedule is further impacted by early release on Wednesdays. As a result, class periods vary in length, which we have indicated with blue and rose colors on the schedule. Additionally, on Tuesday,  October 1st, we will have an advisory period, which will make the classes on that day shorter than they are on Monday, Thursday, and Friday.

I am confident that by working together, we can make this year one of growth, success, and memorable experiences for all our students. Thank you for being an integral part of our Sheldon family. Here's to a great year ahead!

Respectfully,

Mike Ingman

Principal, Sheldon High School

Eugene School District 4J