Mackay Newsletter

Principal

February is off to a great start at Mackay! Problem-solving lessons are continuing across grades K–5. While each lesson is tailored to be developmentally appropriate for each grade level, one important message remains the same for all students: the importance of talking and listening. These skills help students work through challenges, resolve conflicts, and strengthen relationships.

February is the perfect time to focus on kindness, as February 14–20 is Random Acts of Kindness Week. Our Peace Builders have been sharing some wonderful ideas on how to show kindness and keep it going all month long! We encourage families to help spread the message of kindness at home and throughout the community.

Here are five simple ways families can spread kindness together:

• Write a kind note or card to a family member, friend, or neighbor
  

• Do a helpful chore for someone without being asked
  

• Share a compliment or words of encouragement
  

• Donate items or help someone in need (We are already doing this with the SOUPer Bowl!)
  

• Practice kindness by listening and being respectful during conversations
  
  

As always, thank you for your continued care and support.

-Mrs. Angerson

This month is the art room we are busy completing our art pieces for International Week.

Every year at Mackay we celebrate the culture of one country. This year the country we are focusing on is Chile!

In each grade we have been creating art related to native Chilean folk art as well as culturally important symbols in Chile! We started this all back at the beginning of the new year so that all our beautiful work is ready to be displayed throughout the walls of Mackay during International Week to celebrate the vibrant art of Chile!

Until next time,

Ms. Bracero

In February, our K–2 students will continue building and refining their manipulative skills through basketball-focused activities. Students will have the opportunity to strengthen their fundamentals as students practice controlling the ball while moving. Students will enjoy a variety of fun, age-appropriate games designed to help them apply their basketball skills in engaging ways.

In grades 3–5, we are diving into our basketball unit. Students will work on dribbling with control, passing with accuracy, and shooting with proper form, all while learning the importance of spacing, teamwork, and game strategy. Through skill challenges and modified games, students will have plenty of opportunities to collaborate, compete, and continue growing as confident, capable players throughout the month.

Best regards,
Mr. Arias & Mrs. Young
PE Teachers

This month in music, our elementary students are exploring how music connects people around the world and across history. We are celebrating International Day with a focus on Chile, learning about traditional Chilean rhythms, instruments, and how music reflects culture and community.

We are also honoring Black History Month by recognizing the incredible impact of Black Americans on music, including jazz, blues, hip-hop, gospel, and rock. Their creativity has shaped the music we hear every day.

Fun fact: Did you know Black musicians helped invent rock and roll long before it became mainstream? In instrumental music class, students are learning about music from around the world and playing folk songs from China, Australia, Ireland, Spain, and the United States. Music is a powerful way to learn history, celebrate diversity, and have fun together!

Musically,
Mr. Fugaban, General/Vocal Music (Gr. 2-5)
Mrs. DeJoseph, Instrumental Music (Gr. 3-5)

This month, students will explore the Youth Media Awards, with a focus on the Caldecott and Newbery Medal winners. All grades can look forward to read-alouds and activities celebrating Black History Month and the Lunar New Year. Students will take part in creating a welcome display for our upcoming author visit with Wendy Mass on March 5th. Fifth graders will dive into research as they explore this year’s featured country for International Week.

Ms. Brenzel

Library Media Specialist

Happy February! We are excited to continue learning and practicing Spanish in fun and engaging ways this month. Below is a look at what each grade level will be exploring in our Spanish classes:

• Kindergarten: Shapes, and expressing likes and dislikes

• 1st Grade: Animals and animal families

• 2nd Grade: Weather and habitats

• 3rd Grade: Weather and clothing

• 4th Grade: Food vocabulary, including likes and dislikes

• 5th Grade: Classroom objects and school classes

We look forward to a wonderful month of learning, practicing new vocabulary, and building confidence in Spanish. Thank you for your continued support at home—it truly makes a difference!

Warm regards,
Claudia Guerrero
Spanish Teacher

Kindergarten registration for 2026-27 begins Monday, February 2nd. This is an all-electronic process. Please visit www.tenaflyschools.org/registration for information and instructions.

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