Mindess School Weekly Update

Dear Mindess Families,

We had another wonderful week at Mindess! Our students continue to show curiosity, kindness, and responsibility in all that they do.

On Monday, we conducted a Stay-in-Place drill for a simulated medical emergency in collaboration with the Ashland Police and Fire Departments. The drill lasted approximately seven minutes, during which students remained safely in their classrooms while staff practiced our emergency response procedures. We are so proud of how calmly and respectfully our students participated, helping us ensure that everyone in our school community knows what to do to keep one another safe.

Next week, there will be no school on Tuesday, November 11, in observance of Veterans Day. Veterans Day is a time to honor and thank all who have served in the United States Armed Forces for their courage, dedication, and sacrifice. We encourage families to take a moment together to reflect on the importance of this day and to express gratitude to the veterans in our community.

We are also excited to share that the Mindess Book Fair begins next week! This is a wonderful opportunity for students and families to explore new books and foster a love of reading. Please see the schedule below for class visit times and opportunities to volunteer. Thank you to our amazing volunteers for making this event possible!

This week, some of our third-grade classes became Stewards of the Land as part of our School Improvement Plan focus on resource management. Students had the chance to engage in hands-on gardening, learning how to care for our environment and contribute to the beauty of our school grounds. All third-grade classes will have an opportunity to participate at some point this year, helping our students build both environmental awareness and a sense of community pride.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support and partnership. We wish you a safe and meaningful Veterans Day and look forward to another great week of learning ahead!

Warmly,

Kate Altman

Principal

Even if you only have an hour to spare once in a while — every little bit helps! We’d love your support for a half day, a full day, or even just an hour to cover a classroom while a teacher attends a meeting. If you’re interested, please email me at kaltman@ashland.k12.ma.us, and I’ll help you get started!

• Tuesday, November 11 - No School - Veterans Day
• Wednesday, November 12 through Thursday, November 20 - Scholastic Book Fair
• Wednesday, November 26-Early Release - Before Lunch 10:40
• Wednesday, November 26-Turkey Trot - Bring a non perishable item for food pantry
• Wednesday, November 26-Grades Close
• Thursday, November 27 and Friday, November 28 - No School - THANKSGIVING BREAK

This week, our third graders became true stewards of the land! As part of the Mindess School Improvement Plan’s focus on resource management, we have empowered our third-grade students to take ownership of our school grounds—learning firsthand the value of caring for our environment and growing together as a community.

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.