The Spartan Spark

Dear Spartan Families,

November is a wonderful month to pause and focus on gratitude and kindness. This month, our school has kicked off a Character Trait of the Month program, and November’s spotlight is on these two important qualities. Our quote of the month, “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” — Aesop, reminds us that even the smallest kind actions can make a big difference. Classrooms will be finding fun and meaningful ways to spread kindness and show gratitude all month long.

Next week, we’ll also be recognizing Veteran’s Day with a short assembly for our students. It’s a chance for them to learn about the meaning behind the day and to reflect on the incredible sacrifices made by our military heroes. We want our students to understand what it means to be grateful for the freedoms we have because of their service.

As Thanksgiving approaches, I want to take a moment to say thank you to our families and school community. Your support, encouragement, and partnership mean so much as we work together to educate and care for your children each day. We truly have so much to be thankful for!

Warmly,
Mrs. Danielson
Principal, MCC Upper Elementary

🍁 November Character Trait: Gratitude & Kindness

This month at MCC Upper Elementary, we’re focusing on Gratitude and Kindness — the perfect theme for this season of giving! Students are learning how small acts of kindness and appreciation can make a big impact. Classrooms are building Kindness Trees, writing thank-you notes to others, and challenging one another to spread kindness every day. Families can join in at home by sharing one thing you’re thankful for each day or doing a kind act together.

“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” — Aesop

Information and RSVP envelopes will be going home with your students this week for our annual family Thanksgiving dinner. Be sure to check those folders and backpacks for information. Our dinner at the UE will be November, 20th.

If your child is going through a tough time—whether it’s a rough morning, a loss, or something else—please don’t hesitate to reach out. Let the office, your child’s teacher, or Mrs. Headworth or Mrs. Schneider, our Student Success Specialists, know. You can even call or message us with the simple words “Handle with Care” — no questions asked — and we’ll make sure your child gets some extra support that day. Whether it’s a quiet space to regroup, someone to talk to, or just a little extra TLC, we’re here to help.

• September Students of the Month were: 3rd: Kaylie Shoup 4th: Braxten Cracraft 5th: Reagan Heckman

• October Students of the Month are: 3rd: Ryder Walker, 4th: Braelee Hansen, 5th: Myah Lewis

Jude nominated his teacher, Mrs. Pomorski for a Preferred CU teacher grant! Mrs. Pomorski was so honored to recieve this gift.

In SEL (Social Emotional Learning) class this month, students are continuing to build on our character traits of kindness and gratitude—not only toward others, but also toward themselves and our school community. We’ve been creating posters of gratitude to display around the building and talking about what it looks and feels like to give and receive appreciation. It’s been inspiring to see students light up as they recognize the impact of a simple “thank you.”

To help strengthen these traits at home, here are a few easy ways families can reinforce kindness and gratitude this month:

• Model it aloud. Share what you’re thankful for out loud—“I’m so grateful for your help with dinner!” or “I appreciated when you helped your sister.”

• Start a gratitude jar. Encourage everyone in the family to jot down something they’re thankful for each day and read them together at the end of the week.

• Practice self-kindness. Remind your child that it’s okay to make mistakes and to speak to themselves the way they’d speak to a friend.

• Notice the helpers. When you see kindness in action—someone holding a door, sharing supplies, or helping a classmate—point it out.

Together, we can keep spreading gratitude and kindness throughout our school and community this season! 💛

Be sure to download the district app from the app store as well as join our Upper Elementary Facebook page!