Shepherd High School Weekly Update

As a Capturing Kids Heart's school we start each class with a few minutes to share Good Things." (See the Launch at the end of this update.)

Heart-to-Heart Connections: The Gift of Gratitude

As we head into the holiday season, let's take a moment to reflect on the most essential part of the Capturing Kids' Hearts process: building meaningful relationships. This week, our "Good Thing" is focused on expressing sincere Gratitude and making genuine Heart-to-Heart Connections.

It is easy to get caught up in the hustle of final exams, projects, and preparations for the break. But the greatest gift we can give each other is a genuine expression of thanks. Showing appreciation strengthens our school community and reinforces the positive behaviors we commit to in our Social Contracts.

• For Students: Think of three people who made a difference in your school year so far—a teacher, a staff member, or a friend.

  • Your Action: Write a quick note, send a short email, or simply say "Thank you for..." and mention a specific time they helped you or made you smile.

• For Families: What is one positive change or growth moment you've seen in your student since the start of the year?

  • Your Action: Tell them! Acknowledging their growth is an act of deep appreciation and connection. Try, "I appreciate how you handled [specific challenge] this semester."

This year, we are excited to announce "Parent University" where we will provide a safe place to learn together right in the comfort of your own home! We are going to read the book, "The Anxious Generation." Parent University is going to be guided by Tracey Galgoci who is not only a board member here at Shepherd Public Schools but also is the Behavioral Health Coordinator for the Gratiot Isabella RESD.

The book we will read and discuss together is being graciously provided by a Saginaw Chippewa Tribal grant! We appreciate the Saginaw Chippewa tribe and all the support it gives to our school!

We will begin Parent University in January. So get ready to sign up and learn together!

Sign Up Link

Meeting Dates -Virtual and in Person at Winn 6:00-7:00pm

The sessions will be a combination of presenting and time for families/staff to talk to each other.

I am inviting both families and all staff members to these.

January 29 Part 1 “A Tidal Wave: The Surge of Suffering” pgs 1-45

Feb 12 Part “The Backstory: The Decline of Play Based Childhood” pgs 49-110

Feb 26 Part 3 “The Great Rewiring: The Rise of the Phone Based Childhood pgs 113-218

March 12 Part 4 “Collective Action For Healthier Childhood” pgs 221-299

High School drop off is at the Atrium doors. Please come through the parking lot to the very south, drop off then head back through the middle lane. This will keep the north lane open for those dropping of Elementary Students.

The upper two lots are for Staff Parking Only. High School Student parking is in the lower lot, outside of the Atrium/Gym entrance.

If you need Parent Access to Schoology (our online learning platform) please reach out to the HS Office for your access code. With Parent Access you can see the day to day assignments, grades and progress in each of your student's classes. (When they say the don't have homework, you will already know the answer. 😉 )

*these dates/times are subject to change.

The holiday break is a time for rest, rejuvenation, and connection with family and friends. This pause is not just a break from schoolwork; it's a vital opportunity to recharge our personal batteries so we can return ready to live our Social Contract with renewed energy.

As you enjoy the break, we offer this Launch to prepare for a powerful start to the second half of the school year:

• Reflect and Reconnect: Take time away from screens and academic pressures. Do something that brings you genuine joy and helps you feel connected to the people you love.

• Set a Single New Year's Intention: Don't focus on big, overwhelming resolutions. Instead, commit to one single positive behavioral change you want to make when you return (e.g., I will always bring my materials to class, or I will ask for help when I need it). This simple intention will anchor your renewed commitment to our shared Social Contract.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back energized and focused in the New Year, ready to continue building a community where every student feels valued and connected. Happy Holidays!

Be on the lookout for how you can help someone. Check in on your friends and make new ones. And find ways to make someone’s day better.