FC December 2025 Family Newsletter
Monday, December 15
Grades Available in PowerSchool
December 22 - January 2 - No School for Winter Break
We are excited to share a truly special celebration from within our own Fishing Creek family. Our very own Ms. Bright has officially released her first children’s book!
Two years ago, she was inspired by the magic of social stories, thanks to the amazing paraprofessional team at Red Mill. She imagined a social story that would help students understand the many ways we listen in the music room. When she finished writing it, she realized it was something that could reach far beyond her classroom. She submitted it to F-flat Books, and last week it was released as both a digital interactive flipbook and a paperback.
To make things even more exciting, Ms. Bright held a book signing at the American Orff Schulwerk Association's national conference last Thursday, and the book completely sold out!
About the Book – How We Listen
How We Listen helps readers understand that true musicianship grows not just from how we play, but from how openly we listen. The story gently guides readers through sound and silence, showing how we use our ears, eyes, bodies, and hearts to listen. With lyrical text and vibrant illustrations, it highlights mindfulness, music, and the joy of being together. It is a welcoming and meaningful read for children, families, and classrooms, reminding all of us that every voice and every listener matters.
Congratulations, Ms. Bright, on this wonderful achievement! We are so proud of you and incredibly grateful you are part of our FC team. 💙🦈
Tracey Shank was recognized as the Support Employee of the First Quarter at last weeks School Board Meeting! This is an incredibly well-deserved honor!
While the full nomination was shared with the Board, here’s a brief summary of what made Tracey stand out:
Tracey consistently goes above and beyond in her role as our Building Aide. Her reliability, calm presence, and attention to detail keep so many parts of our school running smoothly. From improving cafeteria routines, to her meaningful leadership with our PBIS team and Shark Store, to supporting our Firefly Benchmark pilot, Tracey brings intention and heart to everything she does. She jumps in wherever needed—often anticipating needs before anyone even asks—and her relationships with students make a tremendous impact each day.
Tracey truly helps make Fishing Creek a better place for all of us, and it was such a joy to see her recognized for the difference she makes.
Check out our newest addition to the tunnel!
A brand-new shark decal is now proudly swimming at the building 1 end, and it looks fin-tastic!
Huge thanks to our amazing PTO for sponsoring this project and to Sheaffer Signs for bringing it to life with a flawless installation. Our sharks are going to love walking past their new friend each day!
🌟Character Focus: Empathy & PBIS Spotlight 🌟
This month, our character focus is Empathy! We’re helping students understand the importance of seeing things from someone else’s point of view, showing care, and being supportive of others. Through stories, activities, and conversations, students are learning how to be kind friends who listen, understand, and include everyone.
Our PBIS focus is on being Safe, Kind, and Responsible by using words and actions that make others feel respected and valued. We are encouraging students to build positive relationships, solve problems peacefully, and help create a school where everyone feels welcome and safe.
You can support this character focus at home with these family conversation prompts:
What does it mean to put yourself in someone else’s shoes?
How can we show kindness when someone is having a hard day?
What are some ways we can stand up for others respectfully?
How does it feel when someone really listens to you?
Together, we’re growing a community where empathy leads the way and every student feels supported! 💛🤝🏫
For additional information regarding CharacterStrong, please visit our CharacterStrong & Social Emotional Learning website.
