Message from the Principal

Welcome to a brand new school year! We're so excited to partner with you.

Why Attendance Matters

We're dedicated to creating a supportive and engaging environment tailored to your child's unique strengths and needs, and your active participation in their education is a partnership we deeply value. 

We truly believe that consistent attendance is incredibly important for every student's success, especially for those with special needs. Each day at school offers invaluable opportunities for learning, growth, and connection. When your child is here, they benefit from consistent instruction, build stronger relationships with their teachers and classmates, and maintain the comforting routines that are so vital to their learning journey. 

Establishing Helpful Routines

Creating predictable routines at home can make a big difference for your child.

• Morning Routine: A smooth start to the day sets a positive tone. Try to establish a consistent morning routine that includes waking up, getting dressed, eating breakfast, and preparing for school at the same time each day. This can help ease transitions and reduce any morning anxiety.
• Evening Routine: Similarly, a consistent evening routine can lead to better sleep and a calm end to the day. This might involve a set time for dinner, homework, quiet play, and bedtime.

Using Visual Supports

Many of our students with special needs thrive with clear visual cues.

• Visual Schedules or Checklists: We encourage you to try creating a visual schedule for daily tasks or a checklist for homework, chores, or morning/evening routines. Seeing what comes next can provide clarity, build confidence, and foster a wonderful sense of independence.

Cultivating a Growth Mindset

We believe that learning is a journey, and every step, big or small, is worth celebrating.

• Celebrate Effort and Progress: Let's focus together on your child's hard work, perseverance, and those exciting moments of improvement, rather than just the outcome. Emphasize that learning is a process, and that mistakes are simply opportunities to learn and grow even stronger.
• Model Learning as an Adult: You're your child's first and most important teacher! Show them that learning is a lifelong adventure. Share your own experiences with trying new things, learning from challenges, and celebrating your progress. This could be as simple as trying a new recipe, fixing something around the house, or exploring a new hobby.

Working Together for Success

• Encourage Engagement: Let's find ways to engage your child in activities they genuinely enjoy, whether it's reading together, exploring a specific hobby, or getting active.
• Mindful Screen Time: Setting reasonable limits on television, video games, and other electronic devices, especially during study or routine times, can make a positive impact.
• Prioritize Sleep and Nutrition: A well-rested and nourished child is better able to focus, manage their emotions, and soak up all the learning.
• Open Communication: We're always here to connect! Please use our communication platform to stay in regular contact with your child's teacher. We welcome discussions about their progress, any concerns you might have, and truly value collaborating on strategies to best support their learning.

We truly believe that by working hand-in-hand and with your child's consistent presence in our classrooms, we can create a powerful foundation for their academic and personal growth. Please never hesitate to reach out to your child's teacher or the school office if you have any questions or need additional support. We're a team, and we're here for you!

Warm Regards,

Kathie Phillips, Principal