The Weekly Update Panther Pride

Dear Hillcrest and Pine Avenue Families,

Regular school attendance is one of the most important factors in a child’s success, and it is also an area where the life skill of courage plays a powerful role. As part of our work in Social-Emotional Learning, we define courage as choosing what is helpful, right, and kind—even when it feels hard or uncomfortable. For some students, simply coming to school each day takes great courage.

We recognize that some children experience anxiety related to school. This can show up as worries about academic performance, social situations, transitions, or being away from home. These feelings are real, and they can be overwhelming for students. At the same time, building the habit of attending school regularly is essential, and courage is the bridge that helps students move forward despite those challenges.

When students practice courage in attending school, they are learning to face discomfort rather than avoid it. Avoidance may provide temporary relief, but over time, it can increase anxiety and make returning to school even more difficult. Each day a student chooses to come to school—even when it feels hard—they are strengthening their ability to cope, problem-solve, and build confidence. Courage, in this sense, is not about eliminating fear; it is about taking positive steps forward in spite of it.

Consistent attendance supports not only academic growth, but also social and emotional development. Students who are present regularly are better able to build relationships, engage in classroom routines, and feel a sense of belonging within their school community. These connections often help reduce anxiety over time, creating a positive cycle in which students feel more comfortable and confident at school.

As a school, we are committed to supporting students with both high expectations and care. We work to create safe, predictable environments, teach coping strategies, and partner with families when anxiety or attendance concerns arise. Our goal is to ensure that every student feels supported while also encouraging them to take those important, courageous steps forward.

Families play a critical role in this work. You can support your child by maintaining consistent routines, setting clear expectations for attendance, and reinforcing that school is a safe and important place. When your child expresses worry or hesitation, acknowledge their feelings while also encouraging them to move forward. Statements such as, “I know this feels hard, and I believe you can do it,” help children build both trust and resilience. Celebrating small successes—such as getting out the door on a tough morning—can also reinforce courageous behavior.

If your child is experiencing ongoing anxiety that is impacting attendance, we encourage you to reach out to the school so we can partner together. With the right supports in place, students can learn to manage their anxiety and build the confidence they need to attend school regularly.

By working together, we can help our students develop the courage to show up each day, face challenges, and continue growing. These daily acts of courage not only support attendance but also build the resilience and strength students will carry with them throughout their lives.

Courage Grade 1

Courage Grade 2

Courage Grade 3

Courage Grade 4

Courage Grade 5

Our Alma Elementary Parent Teacher Organization is launching this year’s Fun Run, and we are excited to invite every family to take part. Registering your child is quick, easy, and makes a meaningful difference for our school community. The Fun Run is more than a fundraiser—it’s a celebration of our students, our families, and the incredible support system that surrounds them.

The AEPTO plays a vital role in creating the experiences our students look forward to all year long. Thanks to their dedication, our Panthers enjoy outstanding field trips, engaging book fairs, and new books added regularly to both classroom libraries and the school library. They also provide essential classroom supplies, help stock our PBIS stores, and support countless extras that enrich learning and strengthen our school culture.

When families participate in the Fun Run, they help ensure these opportunities continue for every student. Your involvement directly supports the programs that make Alma Elementary such a vibrant and joyful place to learn. We are grateful for our PTO and for the families who partner with us each year—your support truly makes a difference

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: