The Leadership Lens Issue #22

Dear Mustang Families,

As we step into February, we take time to honor Black History Month—a time to reflect, learn, and celebrate the individuals whose leadership, courage, and perseverance have shaped our nation and continue to inspire us today.

This month aligns beautifully with The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, as many influential Black leaders modeled these habits long before they had names.

• Be Proactive reminds us of leaders like Rosa Parks and Ruby Bridges, who made courageous choices that sparked lasting change.

• Begin With the End in Mind reflects the vision of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who dreamed of a more just and unified world.

• Put First Things First teaches us to prioritize what truly matters—respect, integrity, and doing what is right, even when it’s hard.

• Think Win-Win encourages collaboration and fairness, values seen in leaders who worked to lift entire communities.

• Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood challenges us to listen with empathy and learn from perspectives different from our own.

• Synergize reminds us that we are stronger together, and that progress happens when we work as a team.

• Sharpen the Saw encourages us to grow—academically, emotionally, and socially—so we can be our best selves.

Throughout February, our students will engage in lessons and activities that celebrate Black history while reinforcing these habits in meaningful, age-appropriate ways. We encourage families to continue these conversations at home by discussing leaders, stories, and values that inspire kindness, courage, and perseverance.

Together, let’s use this month as an opportunity to grow, reflect, and recommit to being proactive, respectful, and compassionate members of our school community.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support.

Warm regards,

Mr. Amaton

Dear Marshall Families,

We hope everyone stayed warm and safe during the colder weather. We always look forward to welcoming everyone back to school every week.

Testing continues to be an important focus, and we appreciate the effort and support from students, staff, and families. As we head into this week, we encourage families to help students arrive on time, well-rested, and ready to do their best.

I want to highlight a great example of Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw, which reminds us how important it is to take care of our minds and bodies so we can do our best learning. One of my favorite moments this week came from a student who told me they were “sharpening the saw” by eating breakfast, drinking water, and going to bed early so they would be ready for the school day. It was a great reminder that even our youngest Mustangs understand how preparation and self-care help us succeed.

We would also like to extend a special thank you to Mrs. Molinar for leading our very first Multicultural Night at Marshall. It was a wonderful evening celebrating cultures from around the world. Thank you to our parents, students, and staff for joining us, sharing traditions, and making the night such a meaningful and memorable experience for our school community.

Pony up,

taelor.harris@gpisd.org

This week, we are rounding out bullying prevention lessons by reviewing key reminders about kindness, respect, and speaking up. Students are reflecting on what bullying is, how to be an upstander, and the importance of telling a trusted adult when something doesn’t feel right.

We are also emphasizing Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood by encouraging students to pause, listen, and think about others’ feelings before reacting. Using calm words, respectful listening, and empathy can prevent misunderstandings and help resolve conflicts in positive ways.

Families can support this message at home by talking with your child about:

• “What should you do if you see or experience bullying?”

• “How can kindness and empathy make our school safer?”

📧 6th Grade Registration Information (5th Grade Families)

Please check your Skyward email for information regarding 6th grade registration. You are strongly encouraged to register for the school your student is zoned to, even if you plan to apply to a school of choice. If you have any questions regarding registration, please feel free to contact me via phone or email.

💙 Individual & Family Counselor Support

GPISD has a wealth of resources available to students and their families. If your family is in need of assistance or counseling support, please reach out to me so that I can support you.

Phone: (972) 522-7220

Email: lakedra.anderson@gpisd.org

Thank you for your continued partnership in helping keep our school a safe, respectful, and caring community for all students.

— Ms. Anderson, School Counselor

Please check your email for important information about middle school registration. Registration should be completed with your student and must be done for your zoned (home) campus.

Important: Even if you plan to apply to a school of choice, you still need to register for your home campus to ensure your student has a guaranteed placement.

Please feel free to contact Ms. Anderson if you have any questions.
📞 Phone: (972) 522-7220
✉️ Email: lakedra.anderson@gpisd.org

Por favor revisen su correo electrónico para obtener información importante sobre la inscripción a la escuela intermedia (middle school). La inscripción debe completarse junto con su estudiante y debe hacerse para la escuela asignada según su domicilio (escuela zonificada).

Importante: Incluso si planean solicitar ingreso a una escuela de elección, aún deben inscribir a su estudiante en su escuela asignada para garantizar que tenga un lugar asegurado.

No duden en comunicarse con la Sra. Anderson si tienen alguna pregunta.
📞 Teléfono: (972) 522-7220
✉️ Correo electrónico: lakedra.anderson@gpisd.org

After the recent ice storm, many of us were reminded how important it is to slow down, be flexible, and take care of one another. Those same ideas can really help learning at home during the winter months.

🧤 Keep Learning in Small “Layers”
Just like bundling up in cold weather, learning works best in small steps. Short reading times, quick math practice, or brief conversations about school are more effective than long sessions.

⏰ Give Extra Time
Winter can feel tiring for everyone. It’s okay if homework takes a little longer or focus comes and goes. Encouragement and patience go a long way.

🔥 Create a Cozy Learning Space
A warm, quiet spot with good lighting can make a big difference. Even a kitchen table with a positive attitude helps kids feel safe and ready to learn.

🧊 Check In Often
After an ice storm, we check on roads and neighbors. Do the same with your child—ask how school is going, what feels easy, and what feels tricky. Listening matters.

🚨 Expect a Few Slippery Spots
Missed school days, changes in routine, or frustration are normal this time of year. If your child feels stuck, take a break and try again later.

❄️ Learning Doesn’t Stop in Winter
Even when schedules change and the weather is rough, learning continues. Your support, encouragement, and flexibility help your child grow in every season.

Thank you for partnering with us—and for keeping your family safe and warm during this winter weather 💙

Dear Families,

One way we build leaders is by practicing our 7 habits of highly effective kids not only at school, but also at home. Here are some simple, kid-friendly ways students can practice Habit 4: Think Win-Win at home—focusing on kindness, fairness, and cooperation:

• Share and take turns with siblings during games, screen time, or choosing what to watch, so everyone feels included.

• Help with chores by working together to finish tasks faster and make home a happier place for everyone.

• Use kind words and listen when there is a disagreement, trying to understand the other person’s feelings before responding.

• Compromise by finding solutions that work for everyone, such as picking a game everyone enjoys or taking turns choosing activities.

• Celebrate others’ successes, like congratulating a sibling for doing well or helping a family member when they need support.

• Ask, “How can we both win?” when a problem comes up, reminding themselves that families are strongest when everyone feels valued.

Practicing Think Win-Win at home helps students build empathy, responsibility, and positive relationships—skills that benefit them at school and beyond. 💛

We would also like to congratulate 💛Heshima🦁 for earning the most house points in Quarter 2 and winning the Q2 field trip! This achievement reflects teamwork, leadership, and a strong commitment to making positive choices. Way to go, Heshima—we are so proud of your hard work and dedication! 🎉

-Ms. Sutton

• All Month: School Board Appreciation Month

• TBD: World's Finest Chocolate Fundraiser Kick-off

• 30: Academy 4

• All Month: Black History Month
• 2-6: School Counselor Appreciation Week
• 2: 100th day of school
• 2: Kids Heart Challenge Begins
• 3: RLA District Assessment
• 3: Student Council Meeting, Mrs. Martinez's Room, 3:35-4:15pm
• 4: Math District Assessment
• 6: State Field RLA Test: 4th Grade Only
• 6-13: Scholastic Book Fair
• 9: PTA Meeting, 6:30pm
• 10: 3rd Grade Field Trip to GPISD Planetarium
• 10: Science District Assessment
• 10: Leaders 5
• 12: Valentine's Dance, 5:30-7:00pm
• 13: Class Valentine's Parties (students only)
• PK & K: 1:30-2:15pm
• 2nd-5th: 2:00-2:45pm
• 1st: 2:30-3:15pm
• 15: School SRO Appreciation Day
• 16: Presidents' Day
• 17: TELPAS Testing (Reading and Writing)
• 19: NEHS Meeting
• 23: TELPAS Testing (Listening and Speaking)
• 26: Q2 House Field Trip
• 27: Academy 4
• 27: House Rally/Family Time

On February 26th, Heshima and our top two high point earners from the other houses will attend a field trip to the Perot Museum!

We're bringing back our Valentine's Dance this year on Thursday, February 12th from 5:30-7:00! More info to come in the next few days!

Our class Valentine's parties will be on Friday, February 13th.

PreK & Kindergarten 1:30-2:15

2nd-5th grades: 2:00-2:45pm

1st grade: 2:30-3:15

*Parties will be for students only.

We are excited to celebrate the 100th Day of School on Monday, February 2nd! To join the fun, students are invited to dress up as if they are 100 years old or wear a shirt decorated with 100 items (like stickers, dots, or drawings). Get creative and have fun showing off your 100th Day spirit! All students who participate will earn 100 house points for their house. We can’t wait to see your amazing outfits as we celebrate 100 days of learning together! 🎉👵👴💯

👉Find some ideas for homemade shirts here: https://kidsactivitiesblog.com/115148/100th-day-school-shirt-ideas/

Our school is gearing up to save lives, help our hearts, AND our community through Kids Heart Challenge - a fun and impactful program for students and families! Sign up early and join us!

Nuestra escuela se está preparando para salvar vidas, cuidar nuestros corazones Y apoyar a nuestra comunidad a través del Reto de Kids Heart Challenge, ¡un programa divertido y con gran impacto para estudiantes y familias! ¡Inscríbete con anticipación y acompáñanos!

Marshall is excited to offer your student School-Based Telehealth and Telehealth at Home by Children's Health℠ Virtual Care. With your permission, your child can video chat with a provider, get diagnosed and have prescriptions sent to your pharmacy – all from school or home.

Telehealth services at MLA take place in the clinic and will be billed to your insurance provider or to Medicaid. No insurance? No problem. After your visit, Children’s Health will bill you directly. Most families qualify for a discount, and no student will be turned away for a visit.

For urgent care visits at home, children and adults can access health care resources through Virtual Visit by Children’s Health Virtual Care.

Visit childrens.com/telehealth or call 844-483-5363 to enroll and download our Virtual Visit app.

FAQs: https://www.childrens.com/specialties-services/virtual-care/school-based-programs/school-based-telehealth/school-based-telehealth-faq

Communication resources: https://www.childrens.com/landing/sbt-school-resources

*A consent through Children’s Health is required each school year before a student can be seen. It is advised that every student has a consent signed for when the time may arise the service may be needed. Reach out to Nurse Tasha if you have more questions.

Purchase your child's yearbooks NOW! Purchases include 2 free customizable pages with your child's own memories from the year!

Purchase yearbooks HERE: https://www.treering.com/purchase?PassCode=1016310326852888

*Yearbooks will be delivered the last week of school!

🍫 World’s Finest Chocolate Fundraiser is Coming!

It’s almost that time again! Get ready to start selling those delicious chocolates. Fundraising will run

January 26th – February 17th, just in time for Valentine’s Day. Everyone loves chocolate!

Who will be our top sellers this year? 🏆🍫

More information coming soon!

📌 PTA Meeting – Monday, February 9th, 6:30pm

Join us for our upcoming PTA meeting with important announcements and updates.

If you have suggestions, questions, fun ideas we’d love to hear from you feel free to email us at marshallleadership.pta@gmail.com .

Also our Book Fair will be open before and after the meeting, making it the perfect time to shop with your student. We hope to see you there!

**Earn 1,000 house points just for attending

📚 Scholastic Book Fair February 6th–13th

The Book Fair is coming! We will be needing volunteers to help our students find the perfect book. For every day you volunteer, you will earn 500 house points a great way to support our students.

Spirit Night Coming Soon! 🤗

Stay tuned! We will be announcing our next Spirit Night soon. Which class will earn the highest attendance prize this time?

📌New Year, New Resolution — Make a Difference!

Make your New Year’s resolution count by joining the Marshall PTA and making a difference in your child’s life.

We are so close to reaching our goal of 250 PTA members this year! We’re just 21 members away from our goal!

👏 We currently have 229 members, up from 173 last year an incredible achievement!

Join the fun and help us finish strong. Becoming a PTA member is a great way to stay connected, support our school, and help create meaningful experiences for our students and school community. We are not done yet many more exciting surprises for our PTA teachers and PTA students are still to come!

We are so close to reaching our goal of 250 PTA members this year!👏 We currently have 228 members, up from 173 last year an incredible reflection of the strength and heart of our Marshall community.

Join the fun and help us finish strong! Becoming a PTA member is a great way to stay connected, support our school, and help create meaningful experiences for our students and school.

We’re excited about upcoming fundraisers, events, and spirit nights in the new year, and we would love for you to be part of it! We welcome new ideas, fresh energy, and new faces. If you have suggestions, questions, fun ideas, or are interested in joining the PTA, we’d love to hear from you and meet you.

marshallleadership.pta@gmail.com

Thank you for your continued support! We truly couldn’t do this without you!

Did you know GPISD offers a dinner program to students everyday? Students can receive a full packaged meal after the bell rings.

-Free to ALL students!
-Offered Monday-Friday!
-Offers an additional healthy and nutritious meal after the bell rings!

🌟Please sign up below for each child!

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¿Sabías que GPISD ofrece un programa de cena para estudiantes todos los días? Los estudiantes pueden recibir una comida completa después de que suene la campana.

-¡Gratis para TODOS los estudiantes!
-¡Disponible de lunes a viernes!
-¡Ofrece una comida adicional, sana y nutritiva después de que suene la campana!

Please join us in help completing a background check for volunteering on campus, visiting, and joining us for campus events including field trips. This would need to be completed annually.

Students have received one lanyard and one badge sleeve for free. Afterward, parents need to use the link or QR code to purchase replacements through MySchoolBucks.

You will have the option to choose:

• Badge sleeve $1
• Lanyard-red $2 ❤️
• Lanyard-orange $2 🧡
• Lanyard-yellow $2 💛
• Lanyard-green $2 💚
• Lanyard-blue $2 💙
• Lanyard-purple $2 💜
• Lanyard-black $2 🖤
• Lanyard-white $2 🤍

**Please choose the lanyard color for your child's house.**

To ensure a smooth and safe dismissal process, we kindly ask that there be no student check-outs on Fridays after 2:15 PM. This helps us maintain an orderly end-of-day routine and ensures all students are accounted for our Leadership trainigs. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!