The Weekly Update #4

Dear Parents/Guardians,

As parents, we entrust our children to their teachers daily, knowing that these incredible individuals play a vital role in shaping young minds and nurturing their growth. Teachers are the heartbeat of our schools—guiding, inspiring, and empowering our children to reach their full potential.

Teacher Appreciation Week offers us an exceptional opportunity to reflect on the dedication, passion, and hard work educators pour into their classrooms. Beyond lessons and homework, teachers instill values, spark curiosity, and foster creativity in ways that leave lasting impacts on our children’s lives.

So, how can we show our gratitude? Whether it’s a heartfelt thank-you note, a small token of appreciation, or simply acknowledging their efforts in conversation, every gesture matters. Teacher appreciation is not just about one week—it’s about recognizing their contributions throughout the year and supporting their invaluable role in our community.

Let’s take a moment to thank the educators who make a difference every day. They truly deserve it!

Your partner in education,

Dr. Konowalow

We are so grateful for the Alma Elementary PTO (AEPTO) and all they do to support our students, staff, and school community! We appreciate all your efforts in making the Fun Run a great event for our students and families.

Hello, Families!

Spring has officially sprung! With longer days, warmer weather, and blooming flowers, this

season brings a fresh sense of energy and growth—both outside and inside the classroom. As

your school counselor, I wanted to take a moment to share some helpful tips, reminders, and

encouragement as we head into this joyful (and often busy!) time of year.

Spring into Social-Emotional Learning

Spring is a great time to revisit important social-emotional skills! Here are a few areas we’re

focusing on in guidance lessons and how you can support them at home:

Kindness and Empathy

Spring encourages new beginnings. It’s a great time to talk with your child about treating others

with kindness and stepping into someone else’s shoes. Try reading books together that highlight

diverse perspectives or doing a small act of kindness together.

Perseverance

As we approach the end of the school year, kids may feel tired or ready for summer. Encourage

them to “stick with it” and celebrate small wins! Phrases like “You’re getting better every time!”

go a long way.

Growth Mindset

Just like flowers grow with care and time, so do our minds! Remind your child that mistakes are

part of learning. Use phrases like “What can you learn from this?” or “You haven’t mastered it

yet!”

Mindfulness & Self-Awareness

Spring is a great time to slow down and help kids tune into their thoughts and feelings. Simple

moments—like taking deep breaths outside, listening to birds, or noticing how their body

feels—can teach children how to manage emotions and stay calm. Practicing mindfulness helps

build self-awareness, focus, and resilience—one peaceful moment at a time.

Spring Book Picks for Growing Hearts & Minds

Kindness & Empathy

● “Those Shoes” by Maribeth Boelts (Gr. 1–4) – A touching story about generosity and

understanding needs vs. wants.

● “Have You Filled a Bucket Today?” by Carol McCloud (Gr. 1–3) – Teaches everyday

kindness through the idea of “bucket filling.”

● “The Invisible Boy” by Trudy Ludwig (Gr. 1–5) – A gentle reminder of how small acts of

inclusion can make a big difference.

Perseverance & Growth Mindset

● “The Most Magnificent Thing” by Ashley Spires (Gr. 1–3) – Perfect for little inventors

learning to stick with challenges.

● “Jabari Jumps” by Gaia Cornwall (Gr. 1–3) – A heartwarming story about facing fears.

● “What Do You Do With a Problem?” by Kobi Yamada (Gr. 2–5) – Encourages children

to see problems as opportunities in disguise.

Mindfulness & Self-Awareness

● “I Am Peace” by Susan Verde (Gr. 1–4) – Helps children feel grounded and calm

through mindfulness.

● “Breathe Like a Bear” by Kira Willey (Gr. 1–3) – Fun breathing exercises and calming

activities.

● “Mindful Me” by Whitney Stewart (Gr. 3–5) – Practical tools for mindfulness, emotions,

and focus.

Spring & Nature Themes

● “The Curious Garden” by Peter Brown (Gr. 1–4) – One small garden transforms a city

in this inspiring tale.

● “And Then It’s Spring” by Julie Fogliano (Gr. 1–3) – A poetic, peaceful story about

waiting for spring.

● “Miss Rumphius” by Barbara Cooney (Gr. 2–5) – Encourages kids to leave the world

better than they found it.

Tip: Check your public library for these titles—or listen to the audiobook versions

together as a family!

Spring Self-Care for Kids (and Families!)

Spring is a perfect time to refresh routines and add in some family wellness activities:

● Get Outside – Take a nature walk, have a picnic, or start a small garden.

● Move Your Body – Bike rides, jump rope, or playing catch are great ways to stay active.

● Practice Mindfulness – Lay in the grass and watch the clouds or try deep breathing

together.

Simple wellness habits make a big difference for emotional and physical health. Let’s help our

children bloom into kind, curious, and confident learners as we finish the year. If your child

needs a little extra support or you’d like to check in, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to

partner with you to support your child’s well-being. Wishing you sunshine, laughter, and lots of

springtime smiles!

Warmly,

Mya Ward, LMSW

K-5 Counselor

1st Grade Creativity

2nd Grade Creativity

3rd Grade Creativity

4th Grade Creativity

5th Grade Creativity

Student of the Week and Month:

Earning Student of the Week or Month honors as part of a PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) school acknowledgement program can be an exciting and motivating way for students to be recognized for positive behavior. Here are the ways in which students can earn Student of the Week or Month honors:

Ms. Behjamin's students have been learning in ELA about how things are made and writing, "how-to" pieces. Today, we continued our discussion on how to make popcorn after reading, 'The Popcorn Book' by Tomie DePaola. It was a great hands-on lesson where the kids got to watch and record the steps to making it and the best part was getting to taste it!

Late Start or Early Release

Alma Public Schools will implement Late Start or Early Release Days September through May. The dismissal time for Hillcrest is 11:38 and Pine Avenue’s early release is 11:43 am. The school day at Pine Avenue will begin at 11:43 on the late start days. Please note, Late Start days are on Wednesdays and our Early Release days will be on Fridays.

February 28-Friday-Early Release-End at HC-11:38; PA-11:43 am

March 12-Wednesday-Late Start-Begin at HC-11:38; PA-11:43 am

April11-Friday-Early Release-End at HC-11:38; PA-11:43 am

May 14-Wednesday-Late Start-Begin at HC-11:38; PA-11:43 am