Pine Panther Family Newsletter

Each morning, our students begin the day with the Panther Pledge, a cue to believe in themselves, act with pride, and make the most of each day. This daily practice isn’t just words—it’s grounded in research on how self‑belief and mindset shape learning. Studies from Carol Dweck’s work on growth mindset and Angela Duckworth’s research on grit show that when students believe they can improve, they persist through challenges and build resilience, which leads to long‑term success.

By reciting the pledge, students affirm their confidence and commitment to doing their best. They learn that mistakes are opportunities to grow, that pride comes from effort, and that each day is a chance to make progress. Our dedicated teachers and paraprofessionals reinforce these values in every classroom, helping students turn belief into action. Together, we’re building a culture in which every Panther knows that success begins with believing in oneself and never giving up.

As we begin a new school year, we want to share what student success truly looks like in grades 4 and 5—years that build the foundation for middle school and beyond. Research from the American Institutes for Research, John Hattie’s Visible Learning, and Learning Sciences International consistently shows that students grow most when they engage in productive struggle, take academic risks, and experience consistent routines.

One of the most important things to understand is that errors are learning opportunities. When students make mistakes, they activate deeper thinking, strengthen neural pathways, and build resilience. Success isn’t about getting everything right the first time—it’s about trying, adjusting, and trying again.

Students also grow when they take risks, even when they don’t feel confident. Answering a question, sharing an idea, or attempting a challenging task helps build independence and prepares them for the demands of secondary education. Research is clear: students who participate actively learn more than students who stay silent.

Another key factor in student success is regular school attendance. When students are present every day, they stay connected to instruction, maintain strong peer relationships, and build the habits that lead to long‑term achievement.

At Pine Avenue, dedicated teachers and paraprofessionals support your child every day by creating safe, structured, and engaging classrooms. We value our partnership with parents and believe that when home and school work together, students progress academically, socially, and emotionally.

How Parents Can Support Their Child

Sometimes students choose not to complete work, refuse to participate, or shut down when tasks appear difficult. When this happens, your support at home makes a tremendous difference. Here are a few ways you can help:

• Acknowledge the struggle and remind your child that mistakes and challenges are part of learning.

• Encourage effort instead of perfection—praise trying, not only getting the right answer.

• Ask gentle questions like “What part felt hard?” or “What did you try first?” to help them reflect.

• Maintain consistent routines for homework, sleep, and contact with teachers.

• Contact your child’s teacher when your child is struggling—we are here to partner with you.

Together, we can help every student catch up, keep up, and move up.

Your partner in education,

Dr. Konowalow

Respect Grade 4

Respect Grade 5

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

Today, students and staff participated in a real tornado drill. Our staff responded with exceptional calm and professionalism, ensuring every student moved quickly and safely to their designated locations. Students followed their teachers’ instructions closely, demonstrating strong understanding of our safety procedures.

While situations like this can feel scary for some children, staff, our school counselor, and MTSS team were immediately present to reassure students, provide support, and help them feel secure. Their steady guidance ensured the drill remained safe, orderly, and emotionally supportive for all.