Winter Wellness Edition
Healthy Kids. Strong Community.
As we move into flu season, a stretch of the year when colds, flu, and other respiratory viruses tend to spread more easily, we want to keep our school community as healthy as possible. Please take a moment to review the guidelines below to help prevent illness and protect one another.
When Your Child Should Stay Home
- Fever of 100°F or higher
Keep your child home until their temperature has been normal for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication. - Vomiting or diarrhea (more than twice in the past 24 hours)
They should remain home for 24 hours after the last episode - Uncontrolled cough or respiratory virus symptoms
If symptoms are worsening or not improving, and aren’t better explained by another cause (such as seasonal allergies), please keep them home. - Rash with fever and/or unknown cause
Consult your family physician or clinic before sending your child back to school. - Generally feeling ill or unwell
If they are not able to fully participate in school activities, they should stay home.
CDC Respiratory Virus Guidelines
Respiratory illnesses, including flu, COVID-19, and RSV, can cause symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue, cough, runny nose, and headache.
Students should stay home for 24 hours until both of the following are true:
- Symptoms are improving, and
- They have been fever-free without fever-reducing medication.
Practice Good Hygiene
- Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Remind children to cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or their elbow, and encourage them to avoid touching their face.
Vaccinations
Keeping your child up to date on vaccinations helps reduce the risk of vaccine-preventable illnesses and supports a healthier school environment.
Access immunization records for you or your family:
Winter Concert
Join us for an evening that wraps the season in warmth and harmony. Our School Choir will take the stage to share a joyful selection of choral music, an uplifting celebration of student voice, dedication, and community.
This event is free and open to all, and we’d be delighted to have you with us.
Questions? Reach out to Becca Ausk at [email protected].
Date: Monday, December 15th
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Groves Academy | Carolyn Groves Gymnasium
WEATHER-READY AT GLO:
What to Know Before the Next Snowfall
Now that we have our 1st snowfall under our belts…
Winter has officially reintroduced itself, softly, steadily, and with that familiar whisper: “Better buckle up.” As we lean into the season, here’s a fresh and friendly primer on how we keep our community informed, safe, and moving forward when the weather decides to test our grit.
How We Handle Snow Days (and Everything Else Winter Throws Our Way)
Minnesota winters are beautiful… and unpredictable. While GLO does everything possible to stay open, there are times when safety wins the day. If conditions like slick roads, dangerous wind chills, or other hazards make travel unsafe, we may close the school or building. If that happens, you’ll hear from us fast.
Families always have the final say. If things look dicey in your neighborhood, weather-related absences are excused. Your safety matters.
How We Decide When to Close
Our approach blends data, teamwork, and a whole lot of care:
- A Collaborative Watch Team
Leadership and key GLO staff monitor weather throughout the day and night, reviewing real-time conditions and potential risks. - Reliable Forecasting Tools
We consult the National Weather Service, trusted local models, and keep tabs on decisions from nearby districts. - Safety Above All Else
Students, clients, families, faculty, and staff, your well-being guides every call we make.
Where You’ll Hear from Us
If GLO needs to close due to weather, look for an announcement by 5:30 AM through:
- The emergency alert system (phone call or text, based on parent preference)
- groveslearning.org
- Fox 9, KSTP, WCCO, and KARE 11
- The Groves Parent Facebook page
And remember, if you update your phone number, be sure to adjust it in Alma and notify the office or your supervisor so you never miss an alert.
Need Clarification or Have Questions?
Reach out to Amy Luffey. She’s your go-to for all things weather-closure related.
Winter Activities Are Off and Running (and Skiing!)
The season is officially underway, and our halls are buzzing with that unmistakable winter-sports excitement. This week, our LS, MS, and US Basketball teams hit the home court. Come cheer them on and feel the momentum build!
And for our snow-seekers? The Ski/Snowboard Club launches this Thursday. Fresh air, downhill runs, and pure winter joy await.
Let’s pack the stands, hit the slopes, and make this a season to remember.


