Dear Elementary Families,

I hope this newsletter finds your family well-rested and refreshed after our winter break. Can you believe we’re starting the second semester on Tuesday, January 7th? Time flies! Report cards will be available via the Infinite Campus Portal by Friday. Please remember that you can also use the portal throughout the quarter to check your child’s lunch balance, attendance, and grades.

Reflecting on December
Though December was a short month with just three weeks of school, it was filled with memorable moments. We celebrated the Whirlwinds’ second State Championship, enjoyed festive dress-up days, listened to the wonderful sounds of our students' voices at the program and shared the joy of winter parties. Amid these celebrations, we also faced the heartbreak of a student tragedy. I am deeply thankful to be part of such a caring and supportive community. Your #ArchieStrong spirit shone brightly as you came together to support one another during this difficult time. We were further uplifted by the kindness and generosity of surrounding districts, businesses, and individuals.

Looking Ahead
As we begin the second semester, I encourage you to revisit and discuss before-school and after-school routines with your family to help everyone transition smoothly after the holiday break. (I know I’m still adjusting to a regular bedtime myself!) One habit we encourage all families to prioritize is daily reading. This could mean reading to your child, having your child read to you, or even setting aside time for everyone to read independently. The key is consistency—just a few minutes each day can make a big difference.

Important Dates to Remember
Please take a moment to review the key dates listed below this section in the newsletter. These include our built-in snow day and other events you won’t want to miss this month. Mark your calendars, and stay tuned for updates as we move through January.

We’re looking forward to a fantastic second semester filled with growth, learning, and community. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Thank you for your continued partnership in your child’s education!

Warm regards,
Tamara Stroud
Elementary Principal

The #ArchieStrong character trait for January is SELF-CONTROL.

Dear Families,

The January character trait is self-control. It is an essential skill we all need to be productive and reach our goals. As we begin a new year, many of us make New Year's Resolutions to increase aspects of our well-being. 

Self-control is a crucial skill that lays the foundation for a child’s emotional and social well-being. It empowers them to manage their emotions, make thoughtful decisions, and navigate challenging situations. There is much research that supports the importance of self-control in all areas of a student’s life and really for all of us. This trait is one of the most important traits for success individually and socially. Research supports the following three benefits of practicing self-control.

Why Is Self-Control For Kids So Important? 

• Academic Success - Students with better self-regulation tend to have higher grades and perform better on standardized tests. Self-control allows for more effective learning and retention.

• Emotional Well-Being - Self-control is a cornerstone of emotional intelligence, enabling children to manage emotions, resolve conflicts, and build healthier relationships. 

• Long-term Success and Well-being in Adulthood-Studies suggest that self-control in childhood is a strong predictor of future success. Those with strong self-control are better equipped to set and achieve goals, leading to a greater sense of accomplishment and life satisfaction.        

Practical Strategies to Help Children Develop Self-Control    

These practical strategies can help children navigate their emotions and relationships. Remember, the journey toward self-control is gradual, and providing consistent encouragement is essential. The staff does an amazing job promoting techniques for self-control with students, and we also work on these in character education lessons. 

1. Count to 10 Until You Cool Down- Teaching children to count to 10 when they’re upset is a simple yet powerful technique that allows students to take a moment to pause and breathe, allowing children to create space between their emotions and their reactions.    

2. Walk Away from the Situation- Encouraging children to remove themselves from a distressing situation can be an effective way to regain control. This strategy allows them to find a safe space to process their emotions. 

3. Relax and Take Some Deep Breaths- Deep breathing exercises are a productive method for calming the mind and body. By practicing deep, slow breaths, children activate their parasympathetic nervous system, promoting a sense of calmness and control.  

4. Calmly Explaining Why You Are Angry - Encouraging children to express their anger calmly is crucial for developing self-control. Teaching them to use “I” statements to communicate their feelings allows them to take ownership of their emotions. 

5. Listen to the Other’s Ideas and Feelings- Active listening is a powerful skill that contributes to healthy social interactions. Asking children to listen attentively to others helps them understand different perspectives and promotes empathy.    

6. Ask an Adult for Help- Sometimes, children encounter situations that are beyond what they can handle. Encouraging them to seek the help of a trusted adult is a useful lesson in self-awareness and humility.   

       Questions we can ask our students?

•  Why is it important to do what is right, even when you don't feel like it?

• What could happen to someone who has very little self-control with emotions and actions?

• What are some healthy habits that can make you a stronger person?

• Athletes make a lot of sacrifices to reach their goals. Can you think of ways athletes show self-control or self-discipline?

Thank you for your continued support in making our school a positive and nurturing place for all. #ArchieStrong

Warmly,

Mrs.Johnston, Archie School Counselor

cjohnston@archie.k12.mo.us or 816-293-5312 x. 1011

• January 6- No School- Staff Professional Development, PAT Meet Me in the Motor Lab @ 10:30 a.m.

• January 7- Back to School, start time @ 8:00 a.m.!

• January 13- No School (1st Snow Make Up If Needed)

• January 20- School Board Meeting @ 7:00 p.m.

• January 23- PAT Build it with Dad @ 6:00 p.m.

• January 27- Monday School (Power Week), 95th Annual Archie Tournament

*Watch Mondays carefully in January and February. Students attend at least one Monday in January, and possibly more due to inclement weather.

Be sure to watch the Events Page for upcoming events PK-12. Let's support our Whirlwinds big and small. The Live Feed is also a great place to see all of the wonderful things happening in our district!

Links for Parent and Student Planning