Norma Fernandez, Superintendent of Schools, Candace Coccaro, Director, Student Life and Services

Transitioning Back to School

As students prepare to head back to school, this transition offers a valuable opportunity to reflect on who they aspire to be as they move forward. It's a time for them to consider how their values, goals, and identities have evolved and to reassess how these aspects influence different areas of their lives.

Managing Back-to-School Anxiety After Summer Break:

Returning to school after summer break can be challenging, often bringing feelings of anxiety and a sense of loss. This transition marks a significant milestone in a student's academic journey, as it involves not only adjusting to a new environment but also facing increased academic demands, shifting social dynamics, and heightened expectations.

Transition Techniques for Parents:

1. Ensure your child has a consistent daily routine with regular times for healthy meals, naps, and nighttime sleep. A well-rested body and a predictable home environment help children cope better.

2. Connect with other parents who have children at the same school to gather information and help your child feel more comfortable with the program.

3. Discuss with teachers the best approach for morning drop-offs—often, a brief and positive goodbye works best.

4. Stay calm and reassuring during transitions, using a gentle voice and a relaxed demeanor to convey to your child that they are safe and protected.

How Important Are Sleep and Nutrition When Returning to School?

Sleep and Nutrition are vital for students to excel academically. Proper nutrition fuels the brain with essential nutrients, boosting memory, concentration, and overall cognitive function. Adequate sleep is equally important, as it supports brain development, learning, and emotional well-being. Together, these elements create a strong foundation for academic success.

Foods rich in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins support brain health, boosting learning and retention. Similarly, adequate sleep is crucial for optimal brain function.

During sleep, the brain consolidates information learned throughout the day, enhances problem-solving abilities, and supports emotional well-being. Without sufficient sleep, students may struggle with attention, memory, and decision-making, which can negatively impact their academic performance. Encouraging healthy eating habits and prioritizing enough sleep can greatly enhance middle schoolers' academic success and overall well-being. Kids Sleep Linked to Brain Health

Student Code of Conduct

We are excited to share the updated Code of Conduct for the upcoming school year. This revised guide is designed to create a positive and respectful learning environment for all students. It outlines clear expectations and responsibilities, helping our students understand the importance of their actions and how they contribute to the overall school community. We encourage you to review the new Code of Conduct with your child and discuss how it aligns with our shared values and goals for their success this year.

Resilience Programs

The Resilience programs play a crucial role in helping our students become more aware and proactive about their mental health, academics, and behavior. We achieve this by providing counseling services, fostering strong communication skills, nurturing healthy interpersonal and socialization abilities, validating students' feelings, and advocating for their overall emotional well-being. In September, the clinicians will be traveling throughout the district to model community circles for students and staff. Community circles are structured group activities that encourage open dialogue, mutual respect, and shared understanding, helping to build a supportive and inclusive school community. The Resilience programs will begin accepting student referrals in October 2024 for the 2024-2025 school year.

If you believe your child is struggling, please reach out to your school’s climate team to discuss how the Resilience programs can provide support and assistance.

Ignite Wellness Club

The Ignite Wellness Club is designed to enhance your child's overall well-being through the Resilience programs. These clubs offer a safe environment where students can explore and adopt habits for a healthier lifestyle. The goals of the Wellness Club include promoting physical health, supporting emotional well-being, developing social skills, increasing mental health awareness, encouraging healthy lifestyle choices, learning about nutrition, engaging in community outreach, setting goals, managing time, resolving conflicts, practicing mindfulness, reducing stress, and understanding sleep hygiene.

Established in 2023, the Ignite Wellness Club was implemented in numerous middle and high schools across the district during the 2023-2024 school year. Given its success, the club will be available to middle and high school students again in the 2024-2025 school year, beginning this Fall.

Community Circles

A community circle is a safe and trusting space where we can openly discuss our thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment or ridicule.

In a typical circle with six participants, we might start by passing around a fidget object to help everyone stay focused. We can also hand out positive affirmations to staff to foster a supportive environment. A talking piece is used to signify who has permission to speak, while everyone else listens actively. It’s important to be kind and respectful when others are sharing. The person holding the talking piece is the one allowed to speak, and others are encouraged to listen attentively.

You can choose to pass the talking piece if you prefer, but it will eventually return to you so that we can hear your thoughts, as they are important to the group. Start by sharing your name, one thing that makes you happy, and something you are grateful for.

Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month is a celebration in the United States that lasts from September 15th to October 15th. During this time, we honor the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx Americans. It's a time to learn about famous Hispanic figures like Cesar Chavez, Sonia Sotomayor, and Roberto Clemente, who have made significant impacts in fields such as civil rights, law, and sports.

We also celebrate the diverse foods, music, dances, and traditions from countries like Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba, and many others. Hispanic Heritage Month is a chance for us to recognize and appreciate the vibrant tapestry of Hispanic culture that enriches our society.