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Showing posts from November, 2019

Safety App

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We always tell kids to be safe, don't talk to strangers, and to be aware of their surroundings. We also tell kids if they are in danger to scream, fight, do SOMETHING to fight back and protect themselves. There is an app called "Noonlight" that gives people one more thing to do when they feel like they might be in a dangerous situation. Noonlight turns any cell phone into a personal safety button that can simply be held down any time someone feels unsafe (home alone, walking alone, in an uber/lyft, on a date, etc.). To use it, download the Noonlight app (there is a small fee). Whenever you feel unsafe or if there is an emergency, simply hold the button. Once you release your hand from the button, you have 10 seconds to either enter your personal pin (letting them know you are safe) OR Noonlight will send the police to your exact location. It will also connect you with a dispatcher who will call/text you until you answer. 

Community Resources

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Community Resources The holidays are quickly approaching. When we think of the holiday season, we often associate these times with joy and family celebration. Throw in some stress, overeating, and family conflict, and you have the stereotypical holiday celebration! However, the holidays can also be a painful reminder of lost loved ones and the struggles that life brings. Many people struggle with grief, financial hardship, depression, and countless other issues. Special occasions tend to put a spotlight on these struggles. Fortunately, there is help available. Richland County has a number of resources to help people through tough times. First Call of Richland County is a great place to start. I have called many times to get information on food pantries, help with bills, clothing needs, housing questions, etc. The staff is incredibly helpful and friendly. First Call of Richland County 419-522- INFO (4636) In the middle of a personal or family crisis? Reach out, get he

It's Not About Motivation

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I often have the same basic conversation with a wide range of students.  They are struggling because they "aren't motivated" to do whatever it is they are needing to do.  It could be anything - getting out of bed to come to school, going to practice, doing homework, studying, or taking care of chores at home. But here is the thing... it IS NOT about motivation .  You won't always feel motivated.  Sometimes you will never feel motivated. It IS about discipline .  It is about doing the thing directly in front of you that needs to be done so that ultimately you can have the outcome you want in the long run. We recently celebrated Veterans Day, and I think we can learn something about motivation and discipline from the experiences of our military. Many men in my family have gone through boot camp to become US Marines. We all know boot camp is incredibly difficult, full of both mental and physical challenges. They were definitely NOT always motivated for the tasks i

SNOW DAYS!

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SNOW DAYS! Every year we have the possibility of delays or cancellations. Many of you will wear pajamas backwards, put ice in the toilet, and any other crazy superstition to help get a snow day! In reality, a delay or cancellation is decided by a few specific people. They drive the back roads, side roads, and wherever it is most likely to be dangerous. Here is what to expect: Any decision to delay or cancel school will be made no later than 6:00 AM. If we have a two-hour delay, a decision to cancel will be made no later than 8:00 AM. The quickest and easiest way to find out about any delay or cancellation is to register for an email or text alert! Use this link: http://www.ohioalerts.org/lex