• December 23-January 3: Winter Break
• December 25: Christmas
• December 25 to January 2: Hanukkah
• December 26 to January 1: Kwanzaa

As the calendar turns to start this mid December week, we are reminded of the much-needed gift that upcoming winter break provides for all of us—students, families, and CONA staff alike. This time of year invites us to pause, reflect, and reconnect with what matters most: our loved ones, our well-being, and the moments that bring us joy.

For our students, this break is an opportunity to recharge their minds and spirits, stepping away from the routines of school to embrace the magic of the season. For families, it’s a chance to create memories together, whether through shared meals, festive traditions, or simply slowing down to enjoy each other’s company. And for staff, it’s a time to rest and renew, so we can return in the new year ready to continue meaningful connects for every student.

We hope you’ll use this winter break to embrace the little things—moments of laughter, quiet evenings, and the chance to reconnect with one another. We are so grateful for the incredible partnership we share with our families and look forward to an exciting 2025 filled with learning, growth, and belonging for every member of our community.

Wishing you a restful, joyful, and meaningful winter break.

The next Making Connections will be available on January 5th.

Dear CONA Families,

We would like to take a moment to extend our heartfelt thanks for your support as wrap up the calendar year. Your involvement and enthusiasm make a significant difference in our community. As we approach the holiday season, we wish you and your families a very happy and joyful time filled with love and laughter!

Important Dates

- December 18: Field Trip Permit and Payment due for the Natural History Museum Field Trip

- December 20: 20 Day Window #4 closes and P.E. Log #8 is due

- December 23 - January 3: Winter Break

- January 6: School resumes (normal schedule)

- January 21: Natural History Museum Field Trip (assignments available on Canvas if your student cannot attend)

In-Person Opportunities This Week

Tuesday: Gingerbread Building Contest

This event ties into our math lesson for the week and provides a hands-on learning opportunity. If your students are joining us via Zoom, they can participate from home with any supplies you would like them to have, including gingerbread kits!

Wednesday: Pajama Day and Candy Cane Olympics

We invite students to participate in a cozy spirit day and join us for the Candy Cane Olympics! This fun event allows students to practice teamwork, collaboration, and good sportsmanship in collaboration with our third grade buddies. Students joining us via Zoom can also participate using household items. For those interested, the slides for the Candy Cane Olympics are available on the Connect Time Calendar (linked in your students' homeroom course) to view materials required ahead of time.

Field Trip Information

A Field Trip Information Presentation was emailed out to everyone along with a recorded version of the presentation. Please let us know if you have any questions. We kindly ask that you complete the Field Trip Interest form by tomorrow morning, Monday, 12/16, for our planning purposes.

Thank you for your continued support!

Respectfully,

Mr. Gizzo & Mrs. Matos

Mr. Bibby's Tip of the Week: Relax and Recharge Over Winter Break

Winter break is the perfect time to relax, unwind, and reset for the year ahead. Here are some tips to truly shut it all down and make the most of your time off:

1. Unplug: Take a break from emails, homework, and social media. Give yourself permission to disconnect and focus on what brings you joy.
2. Set a Relaxation Routine: Dedicate time each day for things that make you happy—reading, watching movies, spending time with loved ones, or enjoying a hobby.
3. Catch Up on Rest: Let your body and mind recharge by getting enough sleep and taking naps if needed.
4. Be Present: Focus on creating memories and enjoying the moment rather than worrying about what’s next.
5. Reflect and Reset: Use this downtime to reflect on your accomplishments and set personal goals for the upcoming year.

Remember, winter break is your opportunity to pause and recharge. The work will still be there when you return—but you'll be ready to take it on with renewed energy!

What’s one thing you’re looking forward to during this well-deserved break?

As we prepare for the upcoming break, we recognize that this time of year can bring a variety of emotions for our students. While breaks often bring excitement and joy, they can also come with challenges as students adjust to changes in routine and anticipate time away from school.

At CONA, we are here to support your students in the days leading up to the break. Our team is committed to ensuring that every child feels seen, valued, and cared for, especially during times of transition. If you notice your child needs extra support, please don’t hesitate to connect with their teacher or our student care team.

During the break, if you or someone you know is in need of social/emotional support, reach out to a trusted adult and/or access one of these resources:

• Call 911 for immediate concerns
• National Suicide Prevention Line 800-273-TALK (8255)
• Text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
  
• Text HOME to 741741 to reach a crisis counselor
• The Trevor Project 866-488-7386 (crisis intervention for LGBTQ youth)

Thank you for your partnership as we continue creating a loving and supportive environment for all.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed annually on December 3, promotes awareness and understanding of disability issues worldwide. It highlights the importance of inclusivity and accessibility, advocating for the rights and dignity of individuals with disabilities. This day serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to remove barriers and create opportunities for meaningful participation in all aspects of society. By celebrating the achievements and contributions of people with disabilities, we foster a culture of acceptance and equality for all.

Connect Academy FAQ Link

Recording of Back-to-School Zoom Meeting

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.