Week #20- January 12, 2026
Settling in…
As we ramp back up and settle back into routines, remember that just a few minutes of practice each evening can make a big difference. Thank you for partnering with us to support your child’s growth and success. If anyone is in need of reading resources or flash cards to practice facts, please reach out to Mr. Kirk at kkirk@rockingham.k12.va.us or Mr. Baker at dbaker@rockingham.k12.va.us.
A big shout out to Kinsley Kirtley for representing MES at the County Spelling Bee!
Construction Update: You have likely seen the progress on the renovation project at MES as you have driven into the school. Next week, you will see some block work starting and also see the opening stages of preparing the area to the left of the main entrance for the construction of additional classrooms. Work inside the building, beyond the removal of ceiling tiles in the hallway and installation of construction lighting, has yet to begin. That will likely happen in the next few weeks.
To assist the workers in the large loop area, I request that you please arrive for drop-off after 7:45 in the morning and no earlier than 2:45 in the afternoon for dismissal. They shut down for the arrival and dismissal process for safety reasons, so we cost them time when people line up too early.
Feel free to call if you have questions about this or any other aspect of the project. Thank you!
Message from the School Nurse
We are currently seeing a significant increase in gastrointestinal illness, fevers, and other contagious symptoms among students. To help protect the health of all students and staff, please be reminded of the following guidelines for returning to school:
Students should remain home if they have a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Students may return to school only after they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications and free from vomiting or diarrhea for 24 hours.
Sending a child to school while they are still ill increases the risk of spreading illness and often results in the child feeling worse and needing to be sent home again.
We appreciate your cooperation in helping keep our school community healthy. If you have questions about illness or return-to-school guidelines, please feel free to contact the school clinic.
If you have any questions, you may contact Nurse Marie at the school or via email lcomer@rockingham.k12.va.us.
Thank you for your support.
Other Announcements/Reminders from the MES Office:
Duke Dog Reading Program: Click HERE for more information.
Attendance Tip/Reminder: Talk About the Fun at School: Ask about friends, specials, and activities to build excitement about attending.
Activities & Events at MES:
End of 2nd Grading Period/First Semester- January 16
RCPS Closed for Holiday- January 19
No School for Students/Teacher Workday- January 20
Winter Growth Assessment (Grades 3-5 Reading)- January 27
MES PTO Funky’s Skate Night- January 29 (5 PM)
House Day #3- January 30