Mindess School Weekly Update

Dear Mindess Families,

We enjoyed another wonderful week at Mindess, filled with learning, excitement, and special events. We were thrilled to welcome the Book Fair, which quickly became a favorite stop for students eager to explore new stories and authors. The fair will continue through next week, and families can find additional information below and in our Highlights section.

On Monday, our fourth graders participated in an engaging and high-energy Power Squad assembly. Energy Academy: The Power Squad is an interactive program that teaches students about energy efficiency and conservation through humor, action, and audience participation. Two professional actors performed a series of lively sketches, using improv and student suggestions to guide the experience. From discovering how natural resources generate electricity to learning simple, meaningful ways to conserve renewable energy, students explored these important topics in a fun and memorable way. Be sure to check our Highlights section for a photo from the assembly!

We are also looking forward to many more wonderful events in the coming weeks. School Spirit Week will take place during the week of November 24th—please see the flyer below for theme days and details. In addition, our annual Turkey Trot, organized by our wonderful PE staff, is fast approaching and sure to bring lots of excitement and school pride.

As always, thank you for your continued support and partnership—together, we make Mindess a vibrant and joyful place for all students.

Warmly,

Kate Altman

Principal

NOVEMBER

Monday, November 24

• School Spirit PJ Day: Everyone should wear PJ's!

Tuesday, November 25

• School Spirit Monochrome Day, students wear the same color (same color shoes, shirt, pants, socks, everything!)

Wednesday, November 26 - Early Release - Before Lunch 10:40

• Turkey Trot - Bring a non perishable item for food drive

• Wear Ashland/Alumni Day

• Grades Close

Thursday, November 27 and Friday, November 28 - No School - THANKSGIVING BREAK

DECEMBER

Thursday, December 4

• 5th Grade Band Concert - 7pm to 8:00pm - AHS

Wednesday, December 10

• Rise Students visit AMS for movie

Friday, December 12

• Report cards go home

Tuesday, December 16

• 4th Grade Band Concert - 7pm to 8:00pm - AHS

Tuesday, December 23 - Early Release - After Lunch 11:55

Wednesday, December 24 - Friday, January 2 - WINTER BREAK

The highlight of our week was definitely the Book Fair! Students were buzzing with excitement as they browsed new titles, discovered favorite authors, and shared book recommendations with friends. The fair created a joyful energy throughout the school, and it was wonderful to see so many students eager to explore new stories. Thank you to our families and volunteers for helping make this special event such a success.

Our fourth graders enjoyed the Power Squad Assembly.

This month's SEL theme is Gratitude. Lessons will focus on appreciating the people, places, and things in our lives. Studies show that people who show gratitude live longer, have healthier hearts, and are happier.

In addition, we continue to develop Restorative Justice in our schools. One SEL lesson each month is dedicated to holding a Restorative Circle which helps build community, teaches students how to listen to each other, and support one another. Ask your child about the circles they have taken part in their classroom!

The holidays can be a difficult time for families. If your family needs any support this holiday season, please contact your child's school counselor:

Grade 3 - Amanda Walker awalker@ashland.k12.ma.us, 508-881-0166x3

Grade 4 - Melissa Mespelli mmespelli@ashland.k12.ma.us, 508-881-0166x4

Grade 5 - Meghan McGuire mmcguire@ashland.k12.ma.us, 508-881-0166x5

Don’t forget to visit ashland.k12.ma.us/Flyers where we feature announcements and events offered by organizations, clubs and teams throughout our community that serve to enrich the lives of our students, families, faculty and staff.