Health Services Newsletter
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March is a month of transition - longer days, changing weather, and a busy season full of activities both in and out of the classroom! As we move into spring, it’s a great time to refocus on healthy habits that help our students feel their best and stay ready to learn.
This season also brings state testing. Helping students get adequate sleep, eat a balanced breakfast, and arrive at school on time can make a big difference in their focus and performance. Encouraging calm, consistent routines at home can also help reduce test-related stress and anxiety.
Seasonal allergies often begin to flare up this time of year. If your child experiences allergy symptoms, please be sure any needed medications and required forms are up to date with the school clinic. Encouraging good handwashing, consistent sleep routines, balanced nutrition, and plenty of water can go a long way in keeping students healthy during this busy season.
Spring sports and outdoor activities are ramping up as well. Remind students to stay hydrated, wear appropriate protective gear, and speak up if they are not feeling well or experience an injury. Early communication helps us provide the best support possible.
As always, I’m here as a resource for your family. If your child has new health concerns, updated medical information, or if there is anything we should be aware of to better support them at school, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Wishing everyone a healthy, focused, and successful March!
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The next TWISD SHAC meeting is Tuesday, April 14th from 2:00 - 2:40 PM via zoom. A SHAC is a group of parents, school staff, students, and community members who work together to support and improve student health and wellness across the district. SHAC provides recommendations to the school board on important topics like physical education, health education, nutrition, mental health, and school safety—ensuring our policies and programs reflect the needs of our students and families.
We invite parents and community members to join our SHAC and help shape a healthier future for our schools. Your voice matters, and your input makes a difference! Join the meeting to get involved!
Keep an eye out for the zoom link and meeting agenda to be posted soon!
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March is a time to recognize and celebrate our incredible maintenance team! On Maintenance Worker Appreciation Day, we want to thank the individuals who work behind the scenes to keep our school safe, clean, and running smoothly every single day.
From ensuring classrooms are comfortable and well-maintained, preparing for special events, and responding quickly when unexpected issues arise, their hard work often goes unnoticed - but it never goes unappreciated. Our students and staff benefit daily from their dedication, problem-solving skills, and commitment to creating a safe learning environment.
If you see a member of our maintenance team this month, please take a moment to say thank you for all they do for our school community!
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National Doctors’ Day is a time to recognize and thank physicians for their dedication to caring for our communities. Doctors play a vital role in keeping families healthy—from preventive care and routine checkups to diagnosing and treating illness. Their expertise and compassion help guide patients through some of life’s most important health decisions.
If your family has a physician who has made a difference in your health journey, take a moment to express appreciation. A simple thank-you note or message can go a long way in recognizing the care they provide.
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April 3rd is a day to celebrate our paraprofessionals - our quiet heroes who show up every day and make a difference in the lives of our students. They fill in so many gaps, offer patience and encouragement, and help create learning environments where every child feels supported and valued. Whether assisting in classrooms, providing individualized attention, or simply being a steady presence, our paras embody the heart of our schools. We are grateful for their dedication, compassion, and the countless ways they love and uplift our students. Please join us in recognizing and thanking our paraprofessionals for all they do! |
Our school bus drivers are the first and last school family members many students see each day. They keep our children safe, greet them with kindness, and help set a positive tone for the day. Driving a school bus takes skill, patience, and dedication—and our drivers do it all while building connections with students and families. We are grateful for their commitment to safety and service. Please take a moment to thank your bus driver for the important role they play in our school community! |
As the weather warms and students spend more time outdoors, we want to share a few health reminders to help keep everyone safe and comfortable.
Seasonal Allergies
Spring pollen can trigger sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion. Encourage students to:
âś” Wash hands and faces after outdoor play
âś” Change clothes after spending extended time outside
âś” Use allergy medications as directed by a healthcare provider
âś” Stay hydrated
If your child experiences persistent symptoms or difficulty breathing, please consult your healthcare provider.
Rashes and Skin Irritations
Outdoor activities can sometimes lead to contact with plants or insects that cause rashes. Most mild rashes improve with washing the area and avoiding scratching. However, seek medical advice if:
âś” The rash spreads
âś” There is swelling or signs of infection
âś” It is accompanied by fever
âś” The child is very uncomfortable
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Bugs, Insects, and Ticks
Ticks and insects are more active in warmer months. To reduce exposure:
âś” Wear light-colored clothing and long sleeves when outdoors
âś” Use insect repellent approved for children (follow product instructions)
âś” Perform tick checks after outdoor activities
âś” Shower after spending time outside
If a tick is found, remove it promptly with fine-tipped tweezers and monitor the area for redness or rash. Contact a healthcare provider if concerns arise.
Vector-Borne Illness Awareness
Ticks and mosquitoes can carry illnesses. Early recognition and prevention are key. Symptoms to watch for may include fever, rash, or flu-like feelings after an outdoor exposure. When in doubt, consult a healthcare professional.
Repellents and Safe Use
Insect repellents can help prevent bites when used correctly:
âś” Choose products approved for children
âś” Follow age and application instructions
âś” Do not apply to hands, eyes, or broken skin
âś” Wash skin after returning indoors
We Are Here to Help
If you have health concerns related to allergies, rashes, or insect exposure and would like support, please reach out. School health staff can provide guidance and help connect families with resources.
For additional information, visit:
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National Drug Take Back Day is a safe, convenient opportunity to dispose of unused or expired medications. Keeping old medications in the home can pose risks for accidental ingestion, misuse, or diversion. Proper disposal helps protect children, pets, and the environment.
Many local law enforcement agencies and pharmacies host collection sites where medications can be dropped off anonymously. Accepted items typically include prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines, and certain supplements. (Sharps and liquids may have different disposal guidelines—check local instructions.)
If a drop-off location is not available, medication disposal pouches and guidelines for at-home disposal may also be options. Never flush medications unless instructed, as this can impact water systems. Reach out to Nurse Allison for more resources!
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March 12th is World Kidney Day! Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects 1 in 10 people worldwide and often develops silently, with few symptoms in its early stages. If left undetected, it can lead to serious health complications including heart disease and kidney failure, requiring dialysis or transplantation. People with diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, or a family history of kidney disease are at higher risk. The good news is that simple blood and urine tests can detect kidney problems early, allowing treatment to slow progression and improve long-term health outcomes.
Protecting kidney health starts with prevention and awareness. Healthy lifestyle habits, routine medical care, and early screening for those at higher risk can make a significant difference. As global attention increases around kidney disease, there is growing emphasis on prevention, equitable access to care, and sustainable treatment options. Early detection truly saves lives. Visit worldkidneyday.org to learn more!
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March is Brain Injury Awareness Month - a time to increase understanding about brain injuries, prevention, and recovery. Brain injuries, including concussions, can happen in sports, falls, or everyday accidents. While many students recover fully with proper care, it’s important to recognize symptoms and give the brain time to heal.
Common signs of concussion may include:
âś” Headache or pressure in the head
âś” Dizziness or balance problems
âś” Nausea
âś” Sensitivity to light or noise
âś” Difficulty concentrating or memory problems
âś” Changes in mood or sleep
If a student experiences a head injury or suspected concussion, they should stop activity and be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Returning to school and sports too quickly can delay recovery.
Our school follows concussion safety protocols to support students’ health and learning.
(resources from the Brain Injury Association of America)
Prevention matters—wear helmets during activities, use seatbelts, and create safe play environments. If you have concerns about a student’s head injury or cognitive changes, please reach out to our school health office.
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National Poison Prevention Week is a time to raise awareness about preventing accidental poisonings and knowing what to do in an emergency. Many household items such as medications, cleaning products, cosmetics, and even certain plants can be dangerous if misused or swallowed. Children are naturally curious, so safe storage of medications and chemicals out of reach is one of the best ways to prevent accidents.
If you suspect a poisoning or have questions about a potential exposure, you do not need to guess or wait. Poison Control is available 24/7 for free and confidential help.
đź“ž Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222
Experts at Poison Control can help with situations such as:
âś” A child swallowing medication or a household product
âś” Possible exposure to chemicals or cleaning supplies
âś” Overdoses or medication mix-ups
âś” Bites or stings from insects or animals when reaction seems severe
âś” Questions about potential poisoning risks
âś” Guidance on whether emergency care is needed
Calling Poison Control does not require an emergency room visit in every situation—they can help you determine the best next steps. Quick guidance can prevent complications and provide peace of mind.
Prevention tips:
âś” Store medications and chemicals in locked or high cabinets
âś” Keep products in original containers with labels intact
✔ Never refer to medicine as “candy”
âś” Dispose of unused medications safely
âś” Be aware of carbon monoxide risks and use detectors
Our school supports family health and safety. If you have questions about medication storage, student health concerns, or safety education resources, please reach out.
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April is National Nutrition Month—a time to focus on healthy eating habits that support growing bodies, strong minds, and lifelong wellness. The current Dietary Guidelines for Americans emphasize building healthy eating patterns over time rather than following restrictive diets. The focus is on balance, variety, and making small, sustainable improvements.
The Guidelines encourage families to:
• Eat a variety of vegetables from all subgroups (dark green, red/orange, beans/peas, starchy, and others)
• Choose whole fruits more often than juice
• Make at least half your grains whole grains
• Include lean proteins such as poultry, fish, beans, peas, lentils, nuts, and seeds
• Choose low-fat or fat-free dairy (or fortified alternatives)
• Limit added sugars, sodium, and saturated fats
Healthy eating is not about perfection—it’s about patterns. Small daily choices add up over time.
For more information, visit realfood.gov or review the full Dietary Guidelines here:
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Try one simple focus each week to build healthy habits together!
Week 1: Veggie Variety Challenge
Goal: Try vegetables from at least 3 different color groups this week.
Ideas:
- Dark green (spinach, broccoli)
- Red/orange (carrots, sweet potatoes, bell peppers)
- Beans/peas (black beans, lentils)
- Starchy (corn, potatoes)
Bonus: Let your child help pick a new vegetable at the store.
Week 2: Whole Grain Upgrade
Goal: Make at least half your grains whole grains.
Swap ideas:
- Brown rice instead of white rice
- Whole wheat bread instead of white bread
- Oatmeal instead of sugary cereal
- Whole grain pasta
Tip: Look for “100% whole grain” or “whole wheat” as the first ingredient.
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Week 3: Protein Power
Goal: Try a plant-based protein at least twice this week.
Ideas:
- Bean tacos
- Lentil soup
- Peanut butter on whole grain toast
- Yogurt with nuts and fruit
This supports heart health and adds fiber and nutrients.
Week 4: Sugar & Sodium Check
Goal: Reduce added sugars and sodium in one small way.
Try:
- Replace one sugary drink per day with water
- Flavor water with fruit slices
- Compare labels and choose lower-sodium options
- Choose fruit for dessert a few nights this week
Small changes can make a big difference over time.
Healthy eating works best when families cook together, plan meals, and model balanced choices. If you have questions about healthy snacks that align with school guidelines or need help interpreting nutrition labels, please reach out—we’re happy to support your family’s wellness goals.
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Spring in Texas brings the beauty of warmer days—but it can also bring severe storms, tornadoes, hail, and flash flooding. Taking time now to prepare helps keep your family safe when weather turns unpredictable. Review your household emergency plan, identify a safe shelter area, and build or refresh an emergency kit with water, flashlights, batteries, and first-aid supplies. Stay informed by monitoring weather alerts from the National Weather Service and local emergency systems. Talk with your children about what to do if severe weather happens while they are at school or away from home. Prepared families are resilient families. |
Staying hydrated supports energy, concentration, and physical performance—whether your child is in athletics or simply enjoying an active school day. Young athletes and growing children both need regular water intake to replace fluids lost during activity and to keep their bodies functioning at their best. Sugary drinks can add excess calories and lead to energy crashes, while water remains the best choice for hydration.
This spring, we invite families to take the 7-Day Hydration Challenge:
🥤 Day 1–2: Drink one extra glass of water with each meal.
🥤 Day 3–4: Carry a refillable water bottle and aim to refill it twice daily.
🥤 Day 5–6: Replace one sugary beverage with water each day.
🥤 Day 7: Celebrate your progress and continue building healthy hydration habits!
Parents can help by encouraging water breaks, modeling healthy choices, and reminding young athletes to hydrate before and after practices. Small steps make a big difference in supporting lifelong wellness.
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April is Child Abuse Awareness Month, a time to reaffirm our commitment to protecting children and supporting families in our community. Child abuse can take many forms—physical, emotional, sexual, or neglect—and early reporting can make a life-changing difference for a child in need. If you suspect abuse, you are not alone and you are not required to investigate. Reports can be made confidentially to Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (1-800-252-5400) or online at their reporting portal.
Our community also has local resources for support and healing. The Paluxy River Children’s Advocacy Center provides coordinated services for children and families impacted by abuse, offering counseling, forensic interviews, and a child-friendly environment for services. If you or someone you know needs help, reaching out is a courageous first step.
Together, we can raise awareness, support families, and ensure that every child grows up in a safe and nurturing environment. If you have questions about resources or reporting, our school staff is here to help connect families with appropriate services.
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Report Abuse to DFPS
Call our Abuse Hotline toll-free 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, nationwide, or report with our secure website and get a response within 24 hours.
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Stephenville Location
- 254-918-7452
- margaret@paluxyrivercac.org
1359 W South Loop STE B
Stephenville, TX 76401
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If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. You can reach out via the following links:
- 254-965-6496
- awalker@twisd.us
- 247 CR 207 Stephenville, Tx 76401
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