
Making Connections
February 3, 2025

Weekly Messaging from Connect Academy
Here What's Happening in January and February
- February 2: Groundhog's Day
February 12: Lincoln's Birthday
February 14: Valentine's Day
February 17: Washington's Birthday/President's Day
February 17-21: District Recess (no student days)
Principal's Ponderings
As we step into Black History Month, we take this time to honor the powerful stories, achievements, and contributions of Black individuals throughout history and in our world today. This month is more than a reflection on the past—it’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and continue our commitment to inclusivity, empathy, and innovation.
At CONA, we believe in fostering an environment where every voice is heard, valued, and celebrated. Through engaging discussions, storytelling, and activities, we will highlight the impact of Black leaders, scientists, artists, writers, activists, and innovators who have shaped our society. Their courage, creativity, and resilience continue to inspire us to build a more just and inclusive future.
We encourage our community—students, families, and staff—to take part in this celebration, whether by exploring literature, engaging in meaningful conversations, or learning about the trailblazers who have paved the way for progress. Together, we can honor Black history not just this month, but every day, by fostering a culture of respect, equity, and understanding.
Let’s celebrate, learn, and grow together.
PUSD 25-26 School Transfer Information
The Poway Unified transfer window opens on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at 8 a.m.! If you live within the Poway Unified boundaries and want your child to attend a school different than your assigned school, submit your request online through the Transfers page on the PUSD website. (This includes siblings of current students.) Please make sure to still enroll your child at their assigned school of residence when new student enrollment opens on April 1, 2025. Transfer requests can only be processed once your child is enrolled in their school of residence. The transfer request window will close on March 31, 2025 at 5 p.m.
PUSD E-Bike Safety Class
Teachers' Tomes
Hello Connect Academy Families!
We hope this newsletter finds you well! As we move through the month, we have some important dates and exciting projects to share with you. Let's stay connected and informed!
Important Dates
- Tuesday 02/04 - 20 Day Window #5 closes and PE Log #10 due
- Wednesday 02/05 - Field Trip Permission Slips due for Safari Park trip
- February 17-21 - Presidents' Week Break
Important Information
If you missed the deadline to submit your Disneyland Permit and deposit, please reach out to your teachers ASAP as numbers are being finalized this week. Your prompt attention to this matter is greatly appreciated!
Exciting Ongoing and Upcoming Projects
- Exploring Tech Year 2: Students brought home T-shirts they printed their Theme Park graphic designs on! If your student is still planning to print, please ensure they bring their shirts on Tuesday or Wednesday.
- 3D Printing: Our Year 2 students are also 3D printing pieces for their Theme Park Rides! We are so proud of their creativity and innovation!
- Cross-Curricular Science Weather Project: Our students have been tracking weather for a month and will be starting the second half of the project this week! They will analyze data and create a video weather forecast based on weather trends. We can't wait to see their presentations!
Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our school community. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Warm regards,
Mr. Gizzo & Mrs. Matos
Connect Academy
Counseling Connections
Mr. Bibby's Tip of the Week: Believing in the Power of YET!
Every challenge you face is an opportunity to grow. When you struggle with something new, don’t get discouraged—embrace the power of yet.
🔹 I don’t get this… yet.
🔹 I can’t do this… yet.
🔹 I haven’t mastered it… yet.
Adding yet to your thinking shifts your mindset from frustration to determination. Success isn’t about being perfect the first time—it’s about effort, learning, and persistence. Keep going, keep believing, and keep growing!
Your potential is limitless.
Equitable Spaces
Redundant Repetitious Reiterating Repeated Recurrent Routine Reminders
What's Up With Poway Unified?
PUSD Substitutes Needed: With flu, cold, and COVID season upon us, we are once again in need of qualified substitutes to support PUSD and our campus in the event of an LED absence.
If you or someone you know are interested in applying to become a substitute teacher with Poway Unified School District, please click here.
Food and Nutrition Updates and Reminders: School breakfast and school lunch are FREE for all enrolled students, every school day. Meals must still be entered into the cafeteria computer by individual student account.
Even though meals are free, families are still highly encouraged to complete the application for free and reduced-price meal eligibility. School site funding depends in part on the number of students eligible for free/reduced-price meals. Families that qualify for free/reduced-price meals may qualify for other benefits, as well. The meal application is available online at MySchoolApps.com.
Printer-friendly PDF menus are available on the PUSD Food and Nutrition webpage. At the top of the page, click or hover over School Menus + and then Printable PDF Menus.
Interactive, web-based menus containing nutrient and allergen details are available at MySchoolMenus.com, as well as via links from the F&N webpage.