2014-2015 Back to School Highlights Published Aug. 21, 2014 By Kelly Painter School Liaison Officer GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Families are busy purchasing backpacks, school supplies, and new clothes as part of the back to school routine. The 2014-2015 school year is in full swing for some school districts in our area, where others are set to begin in the next couple of weeks. The following are tips for starting out the school year on a positive note! - Establish a "back to school routine" for your students mornings and bedtime. - Keep a central calendar for all school related appointments and events. - Shop for healthy snacks and lunches in advance. When shopping keep in mind that Twining is a peanut and tree nut-free school this year. - Keep extra lunch money envelopes in your home or car for "emergencies," such as when your student tells you they are out of lunch money as you are driving to school. - Attend your student's school open house. This can help them feel more comfortable on the first day of school. - Check your student's school dress code. Set clear standards about clothing expectations for daily wear and in climate weather. - If your student is starting a new school, stay engaged with them and ask questions about their day. - Help your student manage their stress. Find ways for them to be active and "let off steam." - Set up an assignment/study checklist. - Establish a homework area to support your student's study habits. - Set clear rules with teens if they will be driving to school. - Help your family stay connected through nightly family meals. - Support your students on their "after graduation" plans. Keep an open mind when they share their plans for the future. - Practice your students transportation route with them. Before school begins take a dry run of the walking/biking route and appropriate crosswalks. If carpooling, ensure you allow enough time to get to school and check to see if you have all the proper safety seats/restraints for each student. Dates to remember: August 25- Twining teacher/classroom assignments will be posted on the front doors of the school August 26 - Kids "Passport to Safety Day" event from 11am - 1pm at Twining August 28 - Twining School Open House from 4:00-6:00pm September 2 - First day of school September 12 - Head Start Open House September 15 - First day of Head Start For "Up to the Minute" information related to the school co-location and discontinuation of the base bus services, access the School Liaison webpage at; http://www.grandforks.af.mil/library/schoolliason.asp The School Liaison Office (SLO) is a resource for any concerns related to military child education throughout the school year. The SLO can be reached at 701-747-4484 or stop by the Airman & Family Readiness Center on Warrior Drive west of the BX complex.