This is covered briefly during orientation. This is a more thorough explanation of expectations around snow days. In short, we’re usually busy with the children *and* there is usually work that needs to be done that does not involve children. Snow days are a great opportunity to do that work!
Ideas include:
- complete trainings (find a list here: https://sunflowerpreschoolpdx.com/resources/)(check your MyOro account to see what trainings you have already completed and your hours in each core knowledge category; be intentional about which categories you target)
- update tools (for example, menus)
- create value-add crafts (create birthday cards for children; perhaps a stack of generic ones?)(bring home construction paper and other supplies as needed when weather events are predicted)
- organize photos! When children graduate we provide them with a book of photos from throughout the years. Take a moment and glean the best. Organize them. Print them (Walgreens?)(note: if you ever buy something for the school bring in the receipt and let me know and you will be repaid in the next paycheck.)
- other: some other task you’ve been wanting to tackle.
OVERALL, Do your best to be productive. And try to align your productivity to be commensurate with your scheduled hours. For example, if you’re scheduled to work 4 hours, try to be focused on your chosen task(s) for at least 2 hours. If you’re scheduled for 8 hours, do at least 4. This is all said within the context of acknowledging that storms also bring additional responsibility (taking care of selves, spaces, pets, neighbors, friends, etc). Also, self care is a form of productivity, and we have a very broad definition of self care (taking a bath; preparing nutritious meals; getting tax or other numbers organized; doing yoga; doing things that fill and fulfill your mind/body/heart). TIP: Going into an “open” day I find it most helpful to get concrete and specific about exactly what I am going to do.
At the end of a snow day, please send a short communication (text or email) to your manager, summarizing the day’s accomplishments. Mostly so they can reply and say, “Yeah! Strong work!” (And, frankly, this adds in an accountability piece into the equation.). 🙂