Goshen - We’ve certainly enjoyed a beautiful summer in Orange County this year. Once again, it seems to have passed so quickly. Already, I can feel a crispness in the evening air, and even seen a touch of color on some of the trees around town. And, of course, the stores are full of backpacks and supplies, school buses are testing their routes, and activity is starting to pick up at schools all over the County.
Having been a teacher for more than 30 years, this time of year still leaves me with such mixed emotions. I hate to see the end of summer, but I remember the excitement and promise that comes with the start of a new school year. There are new teachers to meet, schedules to learn, and friends to make. And who doesn’t love the thrill of wearing new school clothes or the feel of cracking open a new notebook or fresh box of crayons?
But what about those students for whom new clothes and supplies are not possible? Fortunately for them, a number of Orange County organizations, including Middletown Cares and Team Newburgh, have stepped up to meet the need for those children by collecting donations of backpacks and other school supplies. If you, or a family you know, are in need of supplies, or would like to make a donation, call the Orange County Youth Bureau at 615-3620 to be connected with the organization in your area.
Orange County Commissioner of Health, Dr. Jean Hudson, reminds us of another important school year preparation - ensuring that your child’s immunizations are up to date. This is critical for children of all ages - from day care and pre-school right through to college.
Of particular note, Dr. Hudson advises that it is currently recommended for everyone over the age of six months be vaccinated against influenza. The vaccine should be readily available as early as September. For more useful health information, visit www.healthyorange.com.
I hope you enjoy the waning days of summer, and look forward to the beauty that autumn brings to Orange County. Best wishes for a great new school year to all of our students.
