Important Message from Mr. Heaney

Skip Navigation
         Dear Woodland Families,
 
              As you know November is a busy month here at Woodland School.  Please be sure to read the following information and view the attachments.  
 
  •  Monday, November 7-Wednesday, November 9 are 1:20pm dismissal days.  There will be lunch but not recess during those days.  All lunch periods will be moved up 1/2 hour. There is NO School on Thursday, November 10 and Friday, November 11.
  • There will be no before or after school clubs during the week of November 7
  • American Education Week Parent Visits are on Tuesday, November 15 and Thursday November 17.  Please see the attachment for specific times and more information.
  • Please check student backpacks for the Thanksgiving Holiday PTO Baked Goods Order forms
  • Grade 5 Families- Please check student backpacks for the Grade 5 Musical character assignments and begin to gather items for your child's costume.

      On a personal note............. 

         As many of you probably know, November has often been the "No-Shave" month or "Movember".   During the month, men are encouraged to put down their shavers in an attempt to raise awareness of men's health such a prostate cancer and depression.    While I am extremely challenged with facial hair and cannot grow a great beard I have participated in "NoShave" November for several years now because it hits close to home for me.  
 
        About 7 years ago my father was diagnosed with Prostate Cancer.   It was an extremely scary and tough time for my father and our family.   Luckily for my father he is married to my great mother who insisted that he have his regular check-ups.   To make a long story short, they caught the cancer at a very early stage and were able to get it before it spread.     
 
        Because it hit so close to home I spent some time researching the statistics of prostate cancer and I quickly found out just how common it is.   In fact, the statistics show that 1 in 7 men will get prostate cancer in their lifetime.  
 
         Sometimes when people do the "No Shave" November they ask for donations towards a foundation.  However, my purpose is simply to raise awareness because sometimes that is all that is needed.    My hope is that by seeing my extremely terrible facial hair you will be reminded to make sure your father, your husband, your son or any loved one has regular check up.   My Dad was lucky.  He made that appointment and got a check up.  I read that it is a good reminder to make an annual health check-up when you turn the clocks back in the Fall.   One last thing....my Dad did not have any symptoms.......most people don't...until it is too late.   Also, this does not apply to only men.  We all know some of the alarming statistics on breast cancer and skin cancer.  Make those appointments! If not for yourself, do it for your family and loved ones.  Take care of yourself,

Jeff Heaney