Welcome to Happier January!

As the new year unfolds, it's common to feel the pressure of resolutions and grand transformations. However, in the flurry of ambitious goals, it's crucial to remember that the journey towards self-improvement doesn't have to be a sprint. Instead of overwhelming yourself with lofty aspirations, consider the power of small, daily changes. Embrace the idea of cultivating happiness incrementally, one day at a time. By focusing on small, manageable steps, you allow yourself the space to savor the journey and appreciate the subtle joys of each moment. So, take a deep breath, be kind to yourself, and let the simple joys of daily life pave the way to a brighter, more fulfilling year.

Click here to download and print the calendar.

Why Play at Work Can Inspire Employees to Take Risks

A new study shows how spontaneous, silly, group-based play can increase psychological safety in diverse work teams. Read more here.

January is National Thank You Month

Now is a great time to reflect on those who’ve impacted our lives and express gratitude. We are so thankful for your dedication to our students and community. Your efforts inspire learning, growth, and compassion every day.

The practice of gratitude improves our overall mental well-being. Check out these articles to learn about the impact of gratitude on our brain:

• “Giving Thanks Can Make You Happier,” Harvard Health
• “If You Feel Thankful, Write it Down. It’s Good for Your Health”, NPR
• “When Looking for Happiness, Find Gratitude,” NAM
• 7 Surprising Benefits of Gratitude”, TIME

This month, we encourage you to reflect on the support you’ve received and take a moment to thank those who’ve made a difference. If you or a family member needs extra support, remember that San Leandro Unified School District partners with Care Solace to provide quick and confidential access to mental health resources.

• Call 888-515-0595, available 24/7 in over 50 languages.
• Visit caresolace.com/slusdfamilies to connect with care providers.

Thank you for all you do to make San Leandro Unified School District a strong and caring community.

OMNI/TSACG Plan Sponsor Newsletter

News, but only the Good Stuff

Nice News sends a daily digest to your inbox each morning with only positive news stories. Wake up with a more optimistic mindset and start your day inspired. Learn more here.

January is National Blood Donor Month

Every day, blood donors help patients of all ages: accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients, and those battling cancer. Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Visit the American Red Cross Blood Services website to find blood drives near you to participate in an easy and gratifying way to contribute to your community.

SLUSD Pet of the Month: Leo and Lily Pontes

Meet Leo and Lily! Leo, a playful orange kitty who, amusingly, hops around like a bunny, and Lily, a delightful tuxedo kitty, have found their forever home with SLHS Office Technician Janice Pontes, thanks to the rehoming advocacy of SLHS teacher Lucia Fatone. The duo is thriving together, spending their days in endless play, while their dog sister, Sadie, tolerates their antics with only the occasional grouchy growl. A heartfelt shoutout to our SLHS family for giving these lovable fur babies a joyful and loving home! 

Do you know an adorable SLUSD pet that deserves some virtual tummy kisses? Send to communications@slusd.us and share the joy!

Vegan Chickpea, Spinach, and Peanut Butter Curry

This vegan chickpea and spinach curry with peanut butter is super easy and tastes fantastic. What’s even better is that it’s on the table and ready to eat in just 30 mins. Perfect for easy and healthy vegan meals in a hurry!

Ingredients

• 1 Tbsp coconut oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1-inch piece of ginger, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ red chili pepper, finely chopped (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1 Tbsp curry powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp ground turmeric
• 2 Tbsp peanut butter
• 1 Tbsp tamari or soy sauce
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• ¾ cup vegetable stock
• 5 oz spinach
• Fresh cilantro, to taste
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

1.  In a large pan, fry the onion, garlic, ginger, red pepper, and chili in the oil for 4-5 mins with a tsp of salt.
2.  Add the tomatoes, spices, and peanut butter to the pan, stir well, and cook for another few minutes.
3.  Add the chickpeas, coconut milk, tamari, and stock and simmer for 20 mins, adding the spinach for the last 2 mins.
4.  Serve with lots of lime juice, some coriander, toasted nuts (if you like), and either rice or naan (or both).

(Credit: Vegan Food & Living)

Easy Vegan Date Caramel

Quick, easy, and delicious easy vegan date caramel recipe. Perfect as a dip with fruit or other healthy snacks. Vegan and gluten-free.

Ingredients

• 15–18 pitted Medjool dates
• ½ cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk (or regular almond milk)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt (optional)

Instructions

1. Place all ingredients into a high-speed blender. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed. Continue blending until no date chunks remain. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more almond milk.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Storage Tip: If you have leftovers (though you probably won’t!), store them in a glass jar or airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 1 week.

Note: Use soft dates for the best results. If your dates are hard or dry, soak them in warm water for 20–30 minutes before blending.