Lower School - 11/5

Dear MCA Families,

We are excited to connect with you to celebrate your student's growth and discuss progress on November 5th and 6th. Also, come visit us in the Lower School Learning Commons for our fall book fair.

Additionally, as the weather becomes colder, we wanted to take a moment to remind you of our Winter Gear Guidelines (see below).

In His Service,

Dr. Rachel David

Lower School Principal

We all carry things others can't see. Worries, disappointments, friendship struggles, family challenges, and the pressures of everyday life can weigh heavily on us—even our kids! God's Word reminds us in Ephesians 4:32, “Be kind and compassionate to one another.”

This week in chapel, I had the opportunity to share a message about the idea that everyone carries an invisible backpack. While we may see someone's actions or attitudes, we don't always know what's happening beneath the surface. That classmate who seems frustrated, the friend who is unusually quiet, or the child who struggles to connect may be carrying something we know nothing about.

As parents, we have an incredible opportunity to model compassion and help our children look beyond someone's behavior to consider what they might be experiencing. Kindness doesn't mean excusing hurtful behavior, but it does mean choosing grace over quick judgment.

Consider asking your child, “What might someone be carrying in their invisible backpack that we can't see?” We can also encourage our kids to use simple, meaningful phrases like “Are you okay?” “Do you want to sit with me?” or “I'm glad you're here.”

And remember, sometimes our own children are the ones carrying something heavy. Creating space to listen and reminding them they don't have to carry everything alone can be just as powerful. We may not know someone's whole story, but we can always choose kindness. Let's help our children be a light to others, making someone's load a little lighter along the way!

This week in chapel, Ms. Flaaten encouraged students to reflect on what it means to show kindness and compassion to others. Using Ephesians 4:32, “Be kind and compassionate to one another,” students were challenged to think about how their words and actions impact those around them. Through everyday scenarios, students explored how they can respond with kindness, demonstrate empathy, and reflect the love of Jesus in their interactions with others. We encourage families to continue this conversation at home by looking for simple ways to show kindness and compassion each day.

As we prepare for Parent Teacher Conferences this week, we invite families to enjoy The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds. This encouraging story reminds us that every child has unique gifts, abilities, and opportunities to grow. Sometimes all it takes is someone believing in us to help us discover what we can accomplish!

As you meet with your child's teacher this week, we encourage you to celebrate your child's progress, recognize their strengths, and identify opportunities for continued growth. Together, as parents and teachers, we have the privilege of helping each child become all that God has created them to be.

Family Conversation Starter: What is something you can do today that you couldn't do at the beginning of the school year?

November 2nd-6th

• Book Fair (PreK-6)

November 5th

• No School/Parent Teacher Conferences

November 6th

• No School/Parent Teacher Conferences

November 12th

• NHS Blood Drive (located in the mall hall)

Student Council Members will meet in Mrs. Peterson's 4th grade classroom from 3:00-4:15 on the first Wednesday of each month! After the meeting concludes, students will be brought down to Door 1 (covered entry) for pickup. Any student not picked up by 4:25 will be brought to X-tended Day where fees may apply.

• November 4th
• December 2nd
• January 6th
• February 3rd
• March 3rd
• April 7th
• May 5th

Dear God,

Thank You for my school, and for the teachers who help me learn. Thank You for the gifts and talents You have placed inside of me. Help me celebrate how much I've grown and be willing to learn new things. When something feels difficult, remind me that I can keep trying. Help my parents and teachers work together to encourage me. Give us hearts that listen, words that are kind, and wisdom to keep growing. Help me become the person You created me to be.

In Jesus' name, Amen.