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From the Assistant Principal's Office
As we enter the new year, my hope is that you and your family had time to rest, recharge, and enjoy meaningful moments together to welcome in 2026.
Our monthly theme for January is Confidence & Leadership: Believing in Yourself and Leading by Example. Developed by our Universal Team, this theme was placed strategically in January to encourage students to take on a renewed sense of ownership as we return from winter break. A month often associated with goal-setting, reflection, and fresh starts, January provides students with an opportunity to build confidence in their actions and decisions while recognizing the impact those choices have on themselves and others.
At Northwood School, we believe that leadership does not mean perfect behavior, quiet compliance, or never making mistakes. Leadership looks different for every child. Many students, especially those who may struggle behaviorally, already demonstrate strong leadership traits such as confidence, visibility, influence among peers, and a willingness to take risks. These qualities are strengths. Our goal is not to suppress them, but to help students learn how to use them in positive and productive ways.
I am proud to share that our Student Council recently presented to the School Board, offering a wonderful snapshot of the positive culture at Northwood School. They highlighted Positive Office Referrals and Monthly Theme Awards, student-led mini-lessons for our elementary students, schoolwide initiatives such as the Giving Tree and food donations, a wrap-up of athletics, and a glimpse into their goals for the upcoming trimester. Their leadership and pride in our school were evident and deeply appreciated.
These efforts remind us that leadership at Northwood School extends beyond the classroom and is strengthened through partnership with our families and community. When students see adults modeling generosity, service, and care for others, it reinforces the values we strive to teach and inspires them to lead with empathy.
With that in mind, I would also like to sincerely thank our families and community members for their generosity during the season of giving through the Giving Tree. Your kindness and willingness to support others reflect the compassion and care that define our school community and provide powerful examples of empathy and service for our students.
Finally, I am grateful for the parent volunteers who continue to support our school. It has been wonderful to see even more families joining us in the building, helping with bulletin boards and projects that showcase student learning and accomplishments. Your involvement strengthens the partnership between home and school.
Thank you for your continued support of Northwood School. I look forward to continuing this important work together in the new year.
~ Ms. Gilliam
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