The Comet Connection
Marrs Elementary School Newsletter: January/February 2026
From the Principal's Desk
The Longest Stretch — and Why It Still Matters
January and February can be some of the hardest months of the school year. The holidays are behind us, the days are short, and energy can feel low for students and adults alike. This midwinter stretch often tests patience, focus, and motivation, and that’s completely normal.
Even so, meaningful learning is still happening. These months are when skills begin to solidify, confidence grows quietly, and perseverance is built. Progress may look less flashy, but it’s laying the groundwork for what’s next.
And the good news? Spring is coming. With longer days and renewed energy, we often see students re-engage and learning accelerate. Everything your child is working through now is preparing them for that growth.
Thank you for your continued support during this stretch. Brighter days and continued learning are just ahead.
With that being said, as we move through the winter months, inclement weather is inevitable. During these times, learning may look a little different. We have several learning models that may be used on virtual days, and we understand that the terminology can sometimes be confusing.
Please see the graphic below, which outlines the different ways learning may occur at Marrs Elementary and what families can expect for each option.
For the Kids,
Katie Bushard
Principal, Marrs Elementary
Grandparents Day
March 16 - Student Last Names A-F
March 17- Student Last Names G-O
March 18- Student Last Names P-Z
Registration is required. Please register for the date that corresponds with the student’s last name. This event is exclusively for grandparents. Parents, siblings, friends, and other extended family members are not eligible to attend. As this is a special event with limited capacity, we appreciate everyone’s cooperation in following these guidelines.
- Registration Deadline: March 6th, 2026
- Limit 4 grandparents per student
- You are required to register before the event; no walk-ins accepted.
- You must attend on the assigned day- No exceptions
- If you are attending multiple days with different students, please fill out a separate form
REGISTER HERE: https://forms.gle/DMYUY5vpNZX3c4zf7
Dates to Remember:
January 28th- Early Dismissal 12:50 PM
February 5th- Last day for yearbook Orders!
February 13- Valentine's Day Parties
Feb 16- No school (Possible Make-Up Day)
March 10th-3rd Grading Period Ends
March 2-13- IREAD Testing
March 16-18- Grandparents Day (By Alphabet)
March 20- Student Recognition
March 23-27: Spring Break
Counselor's Corner
Hello Marrs Families,
As we focus on emotional wellness, kindness, and personal growth during January and February, I wanted to share a few of my favorite, trusted websites focused on children’s mental health and overall wellness. Each site provides practical tips, strategies, and guidance to support children’s emotional well-being, while also recognizing the importance of adult mental health.
Helpful Resources for Families: Kids Mental Health Foundation – https://www.kidsmentalhealthfoundation.org/ Child Mind Institute – https://childmind.org/resources/ A Duck’s Therapist – https://www.aduckstherapist.com/ Please feel free to explore these resources, and as always, don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need additional support. Warmly,
Meg Wezet
School Counselor
From the PTO:
Hello Comet Families!
We are well into the second semester, and we hope everyone is staying warm during these winter months. As we head into January and February, please be sure to keep an eye on our PTO Facebook page for upcoming meeting dates and important updates.
Don’t forget about our monthly give-back nights at local restaurants—these are an easy (and fun!) way to support our school while enjoying a meal with your family. Looking ahead, our next big event will be the Walk-A-Thon this spring, and we will be counting on our amazing families to help make it a success.
As always, please feel free to reach out with any questions, ideas, or concerns. We truly appreciate your continued support of our school and our Comets!
— Kendra Bisesi, PTO President
Mrs. Katie Bushard, Principal
Website: https://www.mvschool.org/ma-home
Phone: 812-985-2082
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marrselementary