ICYMI: While schools and District offices were closed yesterday in observance of Veterans Day, we shared this special tribute from the Human Resources team to the active and retired members of the armed forces who are part of our SCS family. We thank you for your service!

Open enrollment for 2021 employee health benefits ends TOMORROW. If you have questions, sign up for one of two virtual info sessions happening TODAY (9 a.m. & 4 p.m.). Remember, employees will be automatically enrolled in both short-term and long-term disability unless they opt out during open enrollment. If you have a flexible spending plan, coverage must also be selected during open enrollment. Get complete details here.

The #WeAre901Thankful social media challenge is on in November! Even in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis, the 901 community has shown that we still have so many reasons to be thankful. Getting and staying in a mindset of gratitude is not always easy during difficult moments, but SCS is shifting our focus to the things we can be grateful for. Using the hashtag #WeAre901Thankful, we're asking employees, students, families and community members to tell us in a 30-second video clip: what is meaningful to you, and why are you thankful during this season? Check out this video from our Deputy Superintendent, Dr. John Barker. Post your video to social media throughout the month of November!

Our next virtual Family Forum is taking place Saturday, November 14. The November forum will focus on family and community supports, from tips and tools for parenting during the pandemic and K-12 curriculum resources to programs for teens to become entrepreneurs, HIV awareness and more. Plus, there will be a special session focusing on supports and services for students with disabilities in preparation for a return to in-person learning. Join us online from 10 a.m. to noon. Get more info and live session links at scsk12.org/familyforum.

Family Data Nights are one of several strategies the District is using to address potential learning loss due to extended school closures in the spring. They're designed to help families understand various assessments and support student learning at home. Each school will host a Family Data Night and provide the following information for families. View the full schedule of school dates here.

Our favorite winter giving tradition is back for the sixth year. Operation Warm Hearts is Tuesday, December 1, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. in front of the Board of Education. Once again, we are collecting new coats and outerwear to support our students in need. Monetary donations can also be made through CashApp to purchase more items. Our schools, departments and community have made this one of our most successful giving campaigns each year, and we're looking forward to your support as we help spread warmth again this year. Learn how to get involved here.

Employees interested in receiving a Hepatitis B vaccination can make an appointment at the SCS Family Care Center at 130 Flicker St. There are three series, and employees have one week to complete each series (Nov. 16-20, Dec. 14-18 and May 14-21). Get additional details here. Employees must make an appointment (416-6079) and present their badge to receive the vaccine.

SCS and Methodist are partnering to provide flu shots for employees this fall. Appointments are available every Thursday and Friday through November 25, 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. at the Family Care Center on Flicker. Flu shots are free for employees with a CIGNA health plan and $20 for employees who are not on the District's plan. Dependents can also get a flu shot for $20. View the flyer here. Call (901) 416-6079 for an appointment.