The Weekly Update #4

Dear Parents,

As we move into the next few months, our students in grades 1-5 will be embarking on a journey of learning new skills and concepts that will prepare them for the next grade level. This period is crucial for their academic growth and development, and we want to ensure they make the most of it.

Fostering GRIT in Our Students: One of the key attributes we emphasize during this time is GRIT. GRIT is the ability to persevere and stay focused on long-term goals despite challenges and setbacks. Encouraging GRIT in our students helps them develop resilience and a growth mindset, which are essential for their success in both school and life.

Dealing with Frustration: As students encounter new and sometimes difficult material, it is natural for them to experience frustration. This is a normal part of the learning process. It’s important for students to understand that struggling with new concepts is not a sign of failure, but rather an opportunity for growth and improvement.

How Parents Can Support Their Children: Parents play a vital role in supporting their children through these challenges. Here are a few ways you can encourage and help your child during this time:

• Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate your child's efforts and progress, no matter how small. Acknowledge their hard work and determination.

• Encouragement: Remind your child that it's okay to make mistakes and that learning from them is part of the process. Encourage them to keep trying, even when things get tough.

• Set Goals: Help your child set realistic and achievable goals. Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps to make them feel less overwhelming.

• Provide a Supportive Environment: Create a quiet and organized space for your child to study and complete homework. Be available to help and answer questions when needed.

As we continue to focus on academic readiness, we also want to remind you that the end of the trimester is February 28. This is an important milestone for assessing your child's progress and ensuring they are on track for success.

Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership in your child's education. Together, we can help our students develop the skills and resilience they need to thrive in the coming years.

Your partner in education,

Dr. Konowalow

As the Elementary MTSS Coordinator, I am dedicated to fostering a positive and supportive learning environment for all our students. One of the foundational values that we emphasize in our school community is honesty.

What is Honesty? Honesty is the quality of being truthful, sincere, and fair. It involves being honest with others and with oneself. When we practice honesty, we build trust, strengthen relationships, and create an environment where everyone feels safe and respected.

Why Honesty Matters:

1. Trust and Relationships: Honesty helps to build trust between students, teachers, and families. When we are honest, we create strong, positive relationships that are based on mutual respect and understanding.

2. Academic Integrity: In the classroom, honesty is essential for academic integrity. It ensures that students' work is their own and that they take responsibility for their learning. This integrity fosters a sense of pride and accomplishment in their achievements.

3. Personal Growth: Being honest allows students to take ownership of their actions and learn from their mistakes. It encourages personal growth and the development of strong moral character.

Encouraging Honesty in Our Students:

• Model Honesty: Teachers and staff should model honest behavior in their interactions with students and colleagues. This sets a positive example for students to follow.

• Create a Safe Environment: Establish a classroom culture where students feel safe to express themselves honestly without fear of judgment or punishment. Encourage open and respectful communication.

• Teach the Value of Honesty: Incorporate lessons and discussions about honesty into the curriculum. Use real-life examples and stories to illustrate the importance of being truthful.

• Reinforce Positive Behavior: Acknowledge and praise students when they demonstrate honesty. This positive reinforcement encourages them to continue practicing honest behavior.

As we continue to work together to support our students' academic and personal development, let's remember the vital role that honesty plays in creating a strong and vibrant school community. By fostering honesty, we help our students become responsible, trustworthy, and compassionate individuals who are prepared for success in school and beyond.

Thank you for your commitment to nurturing these essential values in our students.

1st Grade Honesty

2nd Grade Honesty

3rd Grade Honesty

4th Grade Honesty

5th Grade Honesty

Student of the Week and Month:

Earning Student of the Week or Month honors as part of a PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) school acknowledgement program can be an exciting and motivating way for students to be recognized for positive behavior. Here are the ways in which students can earn Student of the Week or Month honors:

Late Start or Early Release

Alma Public Schools will implement Late Start or Early Release Days September through May. The dismissal time for Hillcrest is 11:38 and Pine Avenue’s early release is 11:43 am. The school day at Pine Avenue will begin at 11:43 on the late start days. Please note, Late Start days are on Wednesdays and our Early Release days will be on Fridays.

February 28-Friday-Early Release-End at HC-11:38; PA-11:43 am

March 12-Wednesday-Late Start-Begin at HC-11:38; PA-11:43 am

April11-Friday-Early Release-End at HC-11:38; PA-11:43 am

May 14-Wednesday-Late Start-Begin at HC-11:38; PA-11:43 am