El Rincon SACC

2017 Newsletter

Overview:

There are many cool holidays in the month of February? In addition to “Presidents Day” (also called Washington's Birthday) - the day that celebrates the birthday of our first president, the whole month of February is also a celebration of Black/African American History. But, did you know that there are many other national, regional, and local holidays which are celebrated in this month? Honestly, there are so many that I would not be able to list them all in this one newsletter! So, we are going to explore some February holidays that we are familiar with, and a few you may never have heard of. Most of us know about St. Valentine’s Day, but have you heard of Ground Hog’s Day? What about Random Acts of Kindness Week? We will discover the important meanings behind some of the holidays people celebrate.

Black/African American History Month - is celebrated in remembrance of the important people and events in the history of the African diaspora(of African Americans)

Valentine’s Day, is celebrated on February 14th. It is a day to show affection to friends, family, and loved ones.

President’s Day, also known as Washington’s Birthday, is celebrated on the third Monday of the month.

Random Acts of Kindness Week - The week of February 12-18, 2017 celebrates the power of kindness. “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted”...Aesop

Groundhog’s Day - is celebrated yearly on February 2nd. The “official groundhog,” Punxsutawney Phil, lives in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. The legend says that, if Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow (the day is bright and sunny), there will be six more weeks of winter weather, but If he does not see his shadow (the day is overcast), there will be an early spring.

American Heart Month - This month-long celebration was established to encourage Americans to help bring attention to the nationwide problem of heart and blood vessel diseases and, to support these kinds of programs, as well as others such as, Wear Red Day and Women's Heart Monthwhich are also celebrated in the month of February.

Dental Health Month - The American Dental Association worked with Congress to create a program thatwould raise awareness about the importance of oral health. Now, the entire month of February is considered Dental Health Month.

Objectives:

Children will:

  • Learn that some holidays are "fixed" - for example, Groundhog Day is always February 2nd, and Valentine’s Day is always February 14th.
  • Learn that other holidays, such as President’s Day, are “fixed” to a certain day of a particular week, ex. Monday
  • Explore the inventions, contributions, and other accomplishments of those who have sought to establish equality for all people.

Important Dates:

President’s Day: Monday, February 20thth (School and El Rincon KIK/SACC programs are Closed)