Northside Family Connection

Dear Northside Families,

Welcome back and Happy New Year! As we return from winter break, January marks a fresh start and an important time of growth for our students. While winter has settled in, our classrooms are full of renewed routines, focused learning, and meaningful progress. This “quiet restart” is when students truly begin to see how far they’ve come since fall.

Learning & Growing at Northside

January is a powerful month for learning. Teachers use this time to reflect, adjust instruction, and set new goals with students. Routines are re-established, relationships are strengthened, and learning deepens across grade levels.

Winter months can be challenging for students, but at Northside we continue to support them through consistent routines, engaging lessons, and strong connections that help students feel supported and motivated.

Families play a key role in this success. Simple actions such checking in on grades/child's work, communicating with teachers, reading together, encouraging healthy routines, and reminding children that effort and growth matter and make a meaningful difference during this time of year.

Together, these steady efforts set the tone for a strong second half of the school year.

Celebrating Student Experiences

We are excited to celebrate an incredible achievement—Northside has been recognized as a MESPA School of Excellence!

Friday, January 23, 2026
🕑 2:00 p.m.
📍 Northside Gym
❄️ Snow Date: Friday, February 20, 2026

A MESPA representative will join us to present our official plaque. The celebration will feature our theme, “Northside is Glowing With Excellence!” Families can expect a fun, glow-party atmosphere as we honor the hard work of our students, staff, and community.

Important Dates for January:

• January 5–16, 2026: Winter FastBridge Testing

• Friday, January 16, 2026: Snack Attack (Popcorn & Pickle PTO Fundraiser) 3rd - 5th Grade

• Monday, January 23, 2026: MLK Day: No School ~ Teacher In-Service

• Friday, January 23, 2026: School of Excellence Celebration, 2:00 p.m

• Friday, January 30, 2026: Snack Attack (Popcorn & Pickle PTO Fundraiser) K-2nd Grade

Looking Ahead

January sets the stage for the rest of the school year. With the continued support of our families, dedicated staff, and strong community, our students are well-positioned to grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

Thank you for being active partners in your child’s education! We look forward to a strong and successful start to 2026!

Warmly,
Mrs. Keri Murphy
Elementary Principal
St. James Public Schools