Good Luck to North Branford Students in the 2013-14 School Year

With the start of the 2013-14 school year on Thursday, Aug. 29 for students in the North Branford school system, what advice do you have for them for a successful school year?

We asked our readers on our Facebook page and here's what they had to say:

• Marcia Blossom Duenkel: "There's no need to follow the bus in your car. You will be noticed!"
• Evelyne Haldimann: "They're growing up ... Let them take their steps to go. Encourage and praise this big step for them."
• Valerie Milles: "Take pictures!!!"
• Michele Criscuolo Jackson: "We cry longer than they do!!"
• Doreen Currie: "Don't let your child see your apprehension, if you are excited about it they will be too!"

And our town officials have been sharing their advice, too, throughout the month of August in North Branford Patch's '3 Questions' feature. Here's what they had to say: 

NB HazWaste & Recycling Committee: When you are cleaning out last year's student backpacks in preparation for going back-to-school, remember to recycle any extra paper in your blue recycling tote, or any unneeded books in the collection bin at the Town Recycling Center. However, if you find any leftover peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, you are on your own.  Even though we advise the Town on proper methods for disposing of "hazardous waste," we haven't found any good recycling options for that particular item – yet.

Town Manager Mike Paulhus: My advice is to slow down and relax. Enjoy your time with classmates and friends and don’t be afraid to ask questions and participate in class discussions.

Rec Director Pam Gery: What’s not to love about school and the fall and winter? Please know that I am saying this with a very sarcastic tone.
 
Social Service Director Luisa Breen: study.

Director of Libraries Bob Hull: For students, reading can sometimes seem to be just a chore. The joy of reading comes from reading what YOU want to. If you've gotten away from reading for pleasure, check out our collections of traditional books, books on CD, and ebooks. Parents: if children enjoy what they're reading (or what you read to them!), development of reading skill will follow. No special technique -- just reading for FUN.

Fire Chief William Seward: As the new school year is just around the corner, people need to keep in mind that school busses make many stops to pick up and drop off children each day. There is a great responsibility upon the hands of all bus drivers; making sure our kids reach their destinations. We should remember that when you see the red flashing lights on a stopping bus, every driver is required by law to stop and wait for the kids to load or unload before we proceed on our way.  Also, drivers are required to pull to the RIGHT side of the road and stop granting the right of way for all emergency vehicles responding with their lights and sirens operating.  

Mayor Anthony Candelora: Be ready to learn, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Enjoy your time in school – it goes quickly. We have a wonderful school system with the best teachers and administrators. Get involved in your school, play sports or join clubs. The more you put into your school, the more you will get out of it. Be positive and do your best! I hope you all have a wonderful productive school year!

Senior Center Program Supervisor Judy Barron: I am sure all the moms and dads out there kept their kids busy during the summer months!  So when they are heading back to school, pack them a nice healthy lunch and take a break for yourself! Kick back and get some relaxation in! Before you know it the Holidays will be here! Aghhh!

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