May has begun and the rush to the end of school year is on. Make sure to take time to slow down and enjoy every moment, you only have this school year once, make the most of it. You are living through history, what will you remember about this time? Encourage your child to document this school year so that they remember they can persevere and grow even through challenging times.

I wanted to share some news with our NWC families, this will be my final year at NWC. At the end of May I will be retiring and my last day on campus will be June 10, 2024. I wanted to take some time to thank all the members of our NWC community I have had the privilege of working with these past four years. I have felt so welcomed and supported by the NWC community and I will miss each teacher, student and family very much. I plan to continue to cheer on our NWC students and will visit when I am able, after all, once a Cardinal, always a Cardinal❣️

In guidance classes, as part of the Comprehensive Guidance Program content areas: Post-secondary planning and career readiness (students will develop their own academic potential) During this month's guidance lessons will be getting students ready for their upcoming grade level transitions. Students will be encouraged to reflect of their current school year and make plans for the upcoming year.

State testing began at the end of April and completes the 2nd week in May. Students may feel a heightened sense of worry or anxiousness. You can help prepare your child in several ways:

*Encourage your child to practice calming strategies. Mrs. Pena works with students on mindful breathing. This has many benefits including calming and relaxing the body when it is feeling tense or worried.

*You can also help your child create a test day mantra and have them practice it.

An example of a mantra could be: "I am a smart learner," "I will do my best" or "Challenges help my brain grow!"

*Practice self-care. Examples of self-care could be eating healthy meals, getting enough sleep the days leading up to the test, spending time with people you love, and speaking kindly to yourself.

Our students are ready to show all they have learned, so encourage them to be strong, give it their all, and know that they are believed in!!!

CONGRATULATIONS Class of 2024!!!

Calling all former NWC 2016-2017 5th grader students. NWC wants to celebrate your upcoming graduation, please join us for one last walk through your former elementary campus halls! Use the QR code to RSVP for the event.

If you are looking for summer fun, look no further. There are many activities for San Antonio children and adults to participate in, they are all a click away. Check out the San Antonio library system for many free events over the summer, or The Botanical Gardens for camp ranging from $40 a day. No matter where you find your fun, enjoy the time off, the new school year will be here before you know it!

Parents do a lot!! They are busy away from home and at home, it's understandable to get "worn out." If you are feeling this way, you are not alone and there are things you can do to help. Here's a great article that will give you some ways to feel your best.

For more information on the subject, visit the following website:

https://www.fentanylawarenessday.org/

National Fentanyl Awareness Day is also presenting a series of virtual webinars with issue-area experts on an array of topic related to the illicit fentanyl crisis on Tuesday, May 7, 2024. All sessions are free of charge and open to the public.

https://www.fentanylawarenessday.org/speaker-series