Volume 10, Issue 3

January/February 2025

Greetings!

The first months of 2025 have been filled with meaningful learning and acts of kindness across the Cypress School District. Students are engaging in experiences that foster leadership, community, and compassion. From spreading warmth through thoughtful gestures to learning about teamwork and career opportunities in esports to participating in service projects, our students are demonstrating the power of connection and collaboration. This edition of our e-Newsletter highlights the inspiring ways our school communities are making a positive impact—both on campus and beyond. We hope you will spend a few minutes to learn more.

Sincerely,

Anne Silavs, Superintendent

Arnold Fifth Graders Learn About Esports

Seniors from Cypress High School recently visited fifth-grade students to share information about esports, including its educational benefits and career pathways. The event was part of a unique outreach initiative aimed at inspiring younger students by introducing them to the growing world of competitive gaming and teamwork. High schoolers spoke about their journey in esports and the skills they’ve developed. For the fifth graders, it was a chance to learn about how their love for video games could translate into something more than just a hobby.

Student Advisors Building Community at King

The Student Advisory Committee plans events that foster school community and giving. This winter, they have been spreading warm wishes by delivering a pair of cozy gloves to every student at school. The glove event is intended to make each recipient feel appreciated and cared for by their schoolmates. Students love wearing their gloves! The committee’s thoughtful gesture symbolizes the spirit of kindness and the caring environment students and staff strive to create at King. It also reinforces the value of doing something nice for others.

Students Love a Challenge at Landell

Students recently participated in The Great Kindness Challenge, a week-long global event designed to spread joy and compassion. They kicked off the week with a student-created video to introduce the challenge and kept the excitement going with daily themes and lunchtime activities to inspire as many acts of kindness as possible. Families also had the opportunity to participate in the challenge by donating items to support local organizations and people in need. Students learned how small actions can spark a big change and that collectively they can make a big impact when they work together.

Luther Lions Practice Kindness

Luther’s P.A.W.S. behavioral expectations begin with Practice Kindness, and students know this means doing something extra for the people around them. One way that Luther students demonstrated kindness in January was by making cards and posters for the first responders in Los Angeles. With the support of teachers and parent volunteers, Luther students used their recess time to create pictures for the firefighters who risked their lives to help others. By expressing gratitude during an especially scary time, Luther students were able to cope with challenging events as they also practiced kindness.

Morris Students Support Los Angeles Fire Relief

Transitional kindergarteners took part in a meaningful, hands-on project to learn about kindness and compassion. They collected and donated toys, stuffed animals, and books to support Los Angeles fire relief efforts, gaining a deeper understanding of empathy and generosity. Excited to make a difference, they embraced the opportunity to help those in need. Through this experience, they not only learned the value of giving but also saw firsthand how small acts of kindness can bring comfort to others. These lessons in compassion and service will stay with them as they grow.

Developing a Positive School Culture Through Citizenship at Vessels

Staff at Vessels take pride in fostering a safe, supportive, and inclusive community. The Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program reinforces this by teaching students schoolwide expectations each fall and after winter recess. Through engaging lessons, students learn how to contribute to a positive campus culture in spaces like the cafeteria, playground, and library. More than just following rules, they understand that being a good citizen creates a welcoming environment where everyone can learn and thrive.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES 

Carrie Hayashida - Jaime Needham - Meghna Parikh - Lydia Sondhi, Ph.D. - Troy Tanaka

SUPERINTENDENT 

Anne Silavs