Note From Principal Atkins

Families,

Happy Friday! We've got one week until Winter Break and I know everyone is looking forward to some time of rest and celebration.

Please remind your students both now and after the holidays to keep their toys at home. We want to decrease any chances of lost personal belongings as well as avoid any potential distractions and conflicts that can arise. Thank you for helping us with this!

We are focusing on our personal success factor of Social Intelligence this month. This is such a valuable character trait as we all navigate the world. I encourage you to talk with your child(ren) about these ideas over the break. Showing social intelligence involves
  • Responding with empathy to others who are upset
  • Respecting other people's viewpoints
  • Respecting the property of others
  • Noticing and complimenting others and their accomplishments
  • Being able to find solutions during conflicts with others
  • Caring for others' feelings
  • Adapting to different social situations

I also know the holidays can be a difficult time for many of us. I encourage you to take time to care for yourself and your family in any ways you are able. We have an incredible resource in the Mental Health Center of Denver's Dahila Campus nearby, and I hope we all remember that there is strength in reaching out for support.

As you heard earlier this week, students are now returning from Winter Break on Wednesday, January 5th. Students will be returning to brand new schedules as we shift the art and library classes to service the next grade levels. Lunch, recess, Specials, and academic times will shift for all students.

SchoolChoice opens mid January and we have prepared information for prospective parents. We will also be hosting a few tours and Open Houses to share with others more about our incredible school and community. Families with children entering ECE3, ECE4, Kindergarten, Middle School, or High School MUST participate in SchoolChoice (Jan 14-Feb 15). We'll be sending some helpful information home next week.

I look forward to seeing you again on Monday!

Michael Atkins