The Weekly Update Panther Pride

Dear Parents/Guardians,

As the school year winds down and summer approaches, many parents wonder how to keep their children engaged in meaningful activities that support learning, creativity, and overall well-being. At our recent Parent-Teacher Connection Night, families had the opportunity to explore a variety of booths showcasing summer programs, local activity clubs, and educational opportunities designed to keep kids active and engaged.

One of the biggest concerns in today's digital age is the overuse of technology. While screens can be valuable learning tools, excessive use can detract from critical developmental experiences. Studies consistently show that limiting screen time and encouraging outdoor play helps children improve their social skills, physical health, and cognitive development. Encouraging children to get outside, ride bikes, play with friends, and explore nature fosters problem-solving skills, creativity, and confidence and assures parents of the positive impact on their children's well-being. Whether participating in a community sports league, visiting local parks, or simply enjoying family bike rides, outdoor activities build resilience and independence while keeping minds sharp.

Summer learning doesn't have to feel like school! Hands-on experiences, creative arts, science experiments, and reading adventures can keep young minds engaged while allowing children to explore new interests. Emphasizing the importance of balance between structured activities and free play, this approach ensures that kids continue learning while having the space to recharge and enjoy childhood, giving parents confidence in their parenting approach.

Parents play a crucial role in modeling and supporting these habits. Setting boundaries for technology, scheduling outdoor activities, and encouraging curiosity-driven learning are all simple ways to create a summer filled with fun, growth, and exploration. Additionally, it's not too late to sign up for our summer school program for students in grades K-5! Our summer school provides structured learning opportunities in subjects like math, science, and language arts and runs from June 9, 2025, to June 27, 2025. It's a great way to prevent the summer slide and keep children engaged in enriching activities.

Let's work together as a community to make this summer a season of active learning, adventure, and creativity for all students!

Your partner in education,

Dr. Konowalow

Dear Families,

As we close another school year, I want to take a moment to celebrate your child’s growth—not just in academics, but in all the ways that truly matter: their kindness, their friendships, their ability to bounce back, and their growing understanding of who they are.

This time of year brings a lot of emotions for students—and for parents, too. Whether your child is moving onto the next grade, changing teachers, or saying goodbye to friends for the summer, these transitions can feel big. It’s completely normal for kids (and grown-ups!) to feel excited, proud, nervous, or even a little sad—sometimes all at once.

Talking with Your Child About Transitions

Here are a few phrases that can help support your child through end-of-year emotions:

● “It’s okay to have mixed feelings.”

● “I’m proud of everything you’ve done this year.”

● “You’ve grown in so many ways, not just in reading or math, but in how you treat others and how you handle big feelings.”

● “It’s normal to feel a little unsure about next year. We’ll take it one step at a time.”

Sometimes just being there to listen is the most powerful support you can give.

Summer & Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

Even though school is out, your child’s social and emotional learning doesn’t stop—it just moves into new spaces. Here are a few simple ways to keep that growth going all summer long:

1. Keep Routines (with Wiggle Room)

Children thrive on structure. Keep a regular bedtime and some daily rituals, while leaving space for spontaneity and fun.

2. Practice Emotional Check-Ins

Ask open-ended questions like, “What was the best part of your day?” or “What’s something that felt tricky today?”

3. Encourage Problem-Solving

Let your child work through small challenges like sibling squabbles or planning what to pack for a trip. These build confidence and independence.

4. Model Self-Care

Let your child see you taking care of your own emotions—going for a walk, taking deep breaths, or talking things out calmly.

5. Celebrate Kindness

Highlight and praise moments of empathy, sharing, or compassion. These are powerful lessons that last a lifetime.

It has been a joy to support your children this year. Thank you for the love, care, and patience you bring to their growth every day. As the school counselor, I see firsthand how your support at home helps shape compassionate, curious, and resilient kids.

I wish your family a safe, restful, and joyful summer. If you need anything or have questions about next year, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Mya Ward, LMSW

K-5 Counselor/Social Worker

mward@almaschools.net

1st Grade Creativity

2nd Grade Creativity

3rd Grade Creativity

4th Grade Creativity

5th Grade Creativity

Student of the Week and Month:

Earning Student of the Week or Month honors as part of a PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) school acknowledgement program can be an exciting and motivating way for students to be recognized for positive behavior. Here are the ways in which students can earn Student of the Week or Month honors:

1. Demonstrates Positive Behavior (Following our ROARS)

• Respect: Treating peers, teachers, and staff with kindness and respect.

• Responsibility: Taking ownership of their actions, completing assignments on time, and following school rules.

• Safety: Taking care of oneself and others as well as reporting concerns to adults

• Citizenship: Contributing to the school community, participating in activities, and setting a positive example.

2. Academic Achievement

• Consistent performance in completing assignments.

• Active participation in class discussions or activities.

• Improvement in grades or work habits.

3. Exhibits a Growth Mindset and GRIT

• Willingness to learn from mistakes and try new strategies.

• Positive attitude toward learning, even when faced with difficulties.

• Seeking help when needed and showing perseverance.

4. Positive Peer Relationships

• Works well with others in group settings and cooperates during activities.

• Demonstrates leadership skills, such as helping others stay on task or resolving conflicts peacefully.

• Treats all peers with dignity, and avoids bullying or exclusionary behavior.

5. Attendance and Punctuality

• Consistent attendance with few or no tardies.

• Showing up on time and being prepared for class.

• Transitioning activities within the daily schedule and/or within the classroom in a timely manner

Late Start or Early Release

Alma Public Schools will implement Late Start or Early Release Days September through May. The dismissal time for Hillcrest is 11:38 and Pine Avenue’s early release is 11:43 am. The school day at Pine Avenue will begin at 11:43 on the late start days. Please note, Late Start days are on Wednesdays and our Early Release days will be on Fridays.

February 28-Friday-Early Release-End at HC-11:38; PA-11:43 am

March 12-Wednesday-Late Start-Begin at HC-11:38; PA-11:43 am

April11-Friday-Early Release-End at HC-11:38; PA-11:43 am

May 14-Wednesday-Late Start-Begin at HC-11:38; PA-11:43 am