Mustang Messenger
Dear Irwin Families,
As we welcome the month of April, we are also welcoming the fresh energy and renewal that spring brings. This season is a wonderful reminder of growth both in nature and in our students. It has been inspiring to see the continued progress our students are making academically, socially, and emotionally as we move through the second half of the school year.
April is also recognized as the Month of the Military Child, a time to honor the strength, and sacrifices of our military-connected students. We are proud to support and celebrate these students who adapt to change with courage and persevere through unique challenges. Throughout the month, our school will take time to recognize and appreciate the important role military children play in our community.
April is an important time for learning and reflection. Students will be engaged in ongoing classroom instruction, assessments, and spring activities that help reinforce the hard work they’ve put in all year. Your continued support at home encouraging good attendance, positive habits, and a focus on learning makes a meaningful difference in their success.
Important Dates:
- April 1st- Early Release Day 1:30 PM
- April 3rd – Report Cards
- April 6th – 10th – Spring Break (No School)
- April 20th – Spring Picture Day
- April 23rd – School Dance 4:00-6:00
- April 27th – No School (CCR Day)
As always, thank you for your partnership and trust. Together, we are creating a supportive environment where every student can grow and thrive. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher or the school office with any questions or needs. Wishing you and your family a joyful and productive spring season.
Warm regards,
Angelique Johnson
Principal
Ms. Angelique Johnson
91 Rhine Road Bldg B-6138
Fort Bragg, NC 28307-0089
United States
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Gentle Reminders:
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100% ID CHECK: Please remember to show ID. We have a 100% check when picking up students.
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Please do not drop students off prior to 8:00 a.m. There is no adult supervision prior to this time other than for breakfast.
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Student transportation changes must be done in writing prior to 2:00 p.m. (M, T, Th, F) and by 1:00 p.m. on Wednesdays.
We encourage you to join the Irwin PTO.
Learn more about the organization and the events they manage in support of our students!
Visit their Facebook page
Email them at irwinintermediatepto@gmail.com
Spring Pollen & Student Wellness
With the arrival of spring, higher pollen levels may impact students with seasonal allergies. Symptoms such as nasal congestion, watery eyes, and fatigue can affect both comfort and concentration during the school day. Families are encouraged to help manage allergy symptoms at home and reinforce good respiratory etiquette, such as covering coughs and sneezes and practicing proper hand hygiene.
Importance of Hydration as Temperatures Rise
As temperatures increase, staying properly hydrated becomes especially important for students throughout the school day. Drinking enough water helps support concentration, energy levels, and overall physical well‑being. Even mild dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, or difficulty focusing, which can impact learning and participation in classroom activities.
Families are encouraged to ensure students bring a water bottle to school each day and are reminded to drink water regularly, particularly during outdoor activities, physical education, and recess. Developing healthy hydration habits helps students stay comfortable, alert, and ready to learn. Thank you for supporting student health and wellness.
A Quick Safety Reminder for Families
We ask that parents take a moment to talk with their child about the importance of only eating food items. Occasionally, children may put non-food items in their mouths out of curiosity, stress, or habit. Eating non-food items can be unsafe and may cause health concerns. Gentle reminders at home can help reinforce safe choices at school. Thank you for partnering with us to keep our students healthy and safe.
Sincerely,
Nurse McAllister
🌟 April Is National Stress Awareness Month! 🌟
Sometimes students feel stressed, especially at school—and that’s okay! Stress can happen when school or life feels hard or overwhelming. Students might feel stressed when they:
- Have a test or quiz coming up
- Have lots of homework
- Are worried about making mistakes
- Have problems with friends
- Feel rushed during the school day
- Try something new or hard
- Miss home or feel tired
You might notice stress if your tummy hurts, head hurts, heart beats fast, or if you feel nervous, frustrated, or have trouble focusing in class.
There are healthy ways students can manage stress. Taking slow, deep breaths, stretching, moving your body, or taking a short break can help. Talking to a teacher, counselor, parent, or another trusted adult is a great way to get support. Getting plenty of sleep and doing fun activities like drawing, reading, or playing outside can also help your body and brain relax.
April is a great time to notice how you feel and practice ways to stay calm and confident. Remember: everyone feels stress sometimes, and asking for help is a smart and brave thing to do! 💙
April Library News: A Month of Poetry, Celebration, and Reading!
April is a joyful and creative time in the Irwin Information Center! We’re celebrating National Poetry Month, along with several other special events that highlight our love of reading and learning.
National Poetry Month
All month long, students will explore and create a variety of fun and engaging poetry, including:
- Blackout Poetry
- Book Spine Poetry
- Haikus
- Spoonerism Poetry
These activities encourage creativity, word play, and a deeper appreciation for language. Ask your child what type of poetry they’ve been working on!
Celebrations in April
April is full of meaningful celebrations, including:
Month of the Military Child – Honoring the strength and resilience of our military-connected students.
Love Your Library Month – A perfect time to celebrate books, reading, and all the resources available to our students.
Beverly Cleary’s Birthday (April 12) – Celebrating the beloved author of the Ramona series and the creator of D.E.A.R. (Drop Everything and Read) time. Consider setting aside time at home on April 12 to read together as a family!
Explore MackinVision & MackinVIA
Be sure to regularly check our MackinVision NewsPage and MackinVIA for:
- Featured book collections (both in the library and eBooks)
- Monthly Digital Choice Boards
- Interactive reading activities and updates
Students can access everything through:
ClassLink → Irwin Information Center Folder → MackinVision or MackinVIA
April is a wonderful time to celebrate creativity, stories, and the joy of reading. Thank you for continuing to support your child’s learning and love of books!
Julie Simmons
Information Specialist, Irwin Intermediate
Julie.Simmons@dodea.edu
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| School Hours | Regular Hours | First Wednesday of the Month |
|---|---|---|
| Office Hours | 7:30 am - 4:00 pm | 7:30 am - 4:00 pm |
| Teachers | 7:30 am - 3:30 pm | 7:30 am - 3:30 pm |
| Students | 8:20 am - 3:05 pm | 8:20 am - 1:30 pm |
The first Wednesday of each month is an early release day
| Cafeteria Hours | Start | End |
|---|---|---|
| Breakfast | 7:45 am | 8:15 am |
| Lunch | 11:00 am | 1:00 pm |
