El Semanario

THIS IS OUR WEEK IF SCHOOL IS OPEN. IF SCHOOL IS CLOSED AGAIN, WE WILL ADJUST.

Monday, January 13

• STAR Window Continues (Jan 6-24)

• District Music 3rd-5th

• Chess Club, 5th grade lunch recess - Room. 204

• Catalina Payment #1 Due (5th grade families)

Tuesday, January 14

• Garden Club 3rd-5th during lunch recess - tentative due to weather

Wednesday, January 15

• Coffee with the Principal and Experts (Mental Health), 8:30 am, Library

Thursday, January 16

• Mathletes (5th graders who signed up), Room 203

• Preschool Orientation, 5:30-7:00, Library

Friday, January 10

• District Music 4th-5th

• Theater Performance, Newman 9:20-9:50

• Theater Performance, Romo 12:00-12:30

Dearest Edison Families,

These are truly unprecedented times for our community. The first week of school began with a sad loss within our community, followed by a day of extreme winds, and then the onset of one of the worst wildfire events in Los Angeles history. I know that each of us has been affected in some way by these events, and sadly, the situation is not over. As I write this, I’m unsure whether we will have school on Monday, but I’m planning for two scenarios: Plan A (we return on Monday) or Plan B (school remains closed). This Semanario will focus on Plan A, and if things change, we will adjust accordingly.

Speaking of adjustments, we’ve all had to adapt this week. For some, that has meant transitioning to working from home; for others, it has meant no work at all. Some have had to prepare for evacuation, some have already evacuated, and tragically, some have lost their homes and all their belongings. Our hearts go out to those who have faced such a profound loss. While our Edison community is fortunate that only a few families have been directly impacted by losing their homes, even one family is one too many. In true Edison spirit, many have already reached out to offer support to our community and beyond. The district working on a coordinated plan for how to support families in need to ensure that we are effective and inclusive. Stay tuned for more information.

However, perhaps the most important way we can all make a difference right now is by focusing on our children. Our students are looking to us for guidance through this tragedy. It’s our responsibility to frame this for them—helping them understand what has happened while also supporting them in processing these events in a healthy way that allows them to continue learning and growing. I’ve sent out some resources to help you support your child during this time, but here are a few additional reminders:

1. Explain the Situation Simply

• Calm Explanation: Use simple, reassuring language to explain the situation—“Fires are happening away from us, but we are safe.” Let them know you’re taking all necessary steps to stay safe.
• Limit Details: Keep the conversation age-appropriate and avoid overwhelming them with too much information.

2. Validate Their Feelings

• Acknowledge Fears: Let your child know that it’s normal to feel scared after seeing distressing images. Reassure them that they are safe and that you are in control.
• Offer Comfort: Provide physical reassurance—hug them, hold their hand, or stay close.

3. Reduce Media Exposure

• Monitor TV and News: Limit their exposure to disturbing footage. If they see unsettling images, calmly explain what’s happening and reassure them that they don’t need to worry.
• Help Process What They See: If they express concern, discuss the images together and offer comforting explanations.

4. Maintain Routine and Normalcy

• Keep Routines Steady: While not being in school disrupts their routine, try to maintain a sense of structure at home, particularly around meals and bedtime.
• Calming Activities: Engage in activities that help them relax, such as reading, drawing, or playing games.

5. Encourage Emotional Expression

• Talk About Their Feelings: Allow them to share their thoughts and feelings. Encourage creative outlets like drawing or journaling to express emotions.
• Teach Coping Skills: Help them manage anxiety with simple breathing exercises or relaxation techniques.

6. Stay Connected with School

• Check School Updates: Stay informed about any changes and recommendations regarding school.
• Reassure About School Safety: Remind your child that the school is safe and we are well-prepared for emergencies.

7. Model Positive Behavior

• Show Support for Others: Encourage your child to think of ways they can help, such as drawing a thank-you card for firefighters. This fosters empathy and resilience.
• Be Calm: Children often take emotional cues from adults, so staying calm will help them feel more secure.

You will be notified by Sunday evening at 5:30 pm whether or not there is school on Monday. I don't know what it will be like when we return, but we may be on an inclement weather schedule which minimizes outdoor activity. It may also be recommended that students wear N95 masks. It would be a good idea to have one ready just in case. More details will come on Sunday.

In closing, I want to express my deepest gratitude to our entire school community for how everyone has responded during this challenging period. Our custodians have been on campus, ensuring the safety of our school. Our teachers have come together to support families and students, keeping them connected and engaged. Our office and mental health teams have reached out to those in need, offering help and support. Our students have continued to work hard at home. And, of course, our parents have been patient and understanding as we navigate these changes, adjusting one day at a time.

I know we will be together again soon. In the meantime, please take care of yourselves and your loved ones. If you need support, check these district resources. If you don't find what you need, feel free to reach out to us either by emailing us or by completing this form.

We will continue to support one another and remember, no matter where we are, we are

JUNTOS A TRAVÉS DE DOS IDIOMAS!

Warmly,
Directora Ipiña

Each Wednesday, from 8:30-10:00 am, we have parent meetings in the Library. All parents are invited. Meetings are bilingual and there is a Zoom option at this link (although in person attendance is recommended).

This week we will be hosting our Coffee with the Principal and Experts. Our experts this week are our School Psychologist, Yesenia Arriaran, and our School Counselor, Jesica Ixlahuac. This presentation was rescheduled from last week and will focus on how to support mental health at home, especially in light of recent events.

As you know, in order to apply for a spot at Edison, families must attend an orientation. We do this to ensure that they understand our dual immersion program and can make an informed decision about whether it is the right program for their child. Here are the dates of our next orientations. Sign ups are on our website under the ADMISSIONS tab.

• Jan 16: PreK Orientation, 5:30 pm

• Jan 18: TK/K Orientation, 10:30 am

• Jan 21: TK/K Orientation, 5:30 pm

• Jan 23: TK/K Orientation, 5:30 pm

Families of current Edison students in grades TK-5 who have a sibling applying for the next school year do not need to attend an orientation to apply, however, we need to know who you are so we can send you an application.

If you are a current Edison parent of a student in TK-5, and you would like to apply for a sibling for the 25-26 school year, let us know by clicking the link below. We will send you an application. Applications are due January 31st.

EDISON SIBLING APPLICATION LIST LINK

This year our 5th grade students will be going to Emerald Bay Science Camp. We had a parent informational meeting before break. If you missed it, you can refer to the presentation here.

The first payment for Catalina in the amount of $160 is due Monday, January 13th. If your financial situation has changed and you are in need of financial assistance, contact Alicia Alvarez (aalvarez@smmusd.org).

Here are important dates to keep in mind:

• Jan 13: Payment 1 due ($160)

• Feb 10: Payment 2 due ($155)

• Feb 24: Medical Forms Due and Parent Meeting #2

• March 24-26: Trip Dates

Talk about moments of joy! I have to let you know that dance classes started last week and even amongst the craziness that was going on, it was such a pleasure to witness the joy and giggles of our students as they began their dance journey with Leelee. She is a fantastic dance teacher for kids, she plays fun music, and knows how to get them grooving! I can't wait for you to see what they learn during their performance on March 13th.

Tentative performance times are:

8:15-8:40 - 2nd grade

8:45-9:10 - 1st grade

9:15-9:40 - 3rd grade

We have upcoming Theater Performances scheduled. Please note that we changed the date for Maestra Romo's play.

Great news! Our students love to read and they are asking for more! We work very hard to ensure all of our students learn to read in both languages. Our skilled teachers and our wonderful collection of books play a crucial role in making sure that happens. Our students are always asking for more books, but we can't always meet the demand. Would you like to help? Click here to see our Edison Library Wishlist. If you would like to buy a book and donate it to our library, our students would be very grateful.

In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., our PTA will be hosting a Community Service Day on Monday, January 20th on campus. This day is a national holiday and there is no school for students, but many people chose to engage in community service efforts to honor Dr. King. At Edison, we will be working on cleaning and fixing things around the school. Students are welcome to help. We will also have a card making station for students who would like to make a Valentine Card for an elderly person at a nearby senior center. If you would like to help, and show your child the importance of giving back to the community, mark your calendars. More details to follow.

• Walk-In Legal Clinic : Meet 1-on-1 with Legal Aid Foundation lawyers for help with housing and other issues. Ongoing Wednesdays, 4:30-7 p.m.

• Free US Citizenship Classes: Study the 100 Civics questions, review citizenship applications, practice dictations and prepare for the interview. SM Library/Pico Branch.

• Literary Lounge- Books, snacks and music. SM Main Library, Wednesdays, 6:15-7:30

• Chess Sundays: Players of all ages/levels invited.Third St. Promenade, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

• Free ESL Conversation Classes: Group classes and 1-on-1 tutoring. SM Main Library.

• Social Service Assistance: Family Nutrition & Health Care Access: Meet with community health workers to sign up for benefits. Virginia Park, SM, Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.