“Stop searching the world for treasure. The real treasure is in yourself.” – Pablo

We are excited to begin our next unit: Attitude of Gratitude! Over the next four weeks, students will start embracing the Attitude of Gratitude Mindset by recognizing their unique contributions to the world. They’ll be encouraged to appreciate the small joys in life and express gratitude to those who make a difference in their journey. Through this process, they’ll develop the ability to find silver linings in challenging situations and appreciate the lessons they bring. This unit will help students understand that focusing on what brings them joy allows positivity to grow. By making gratitude a daily habit, they’ll cultivate a happier, more fulfilling outlook on life.

Our first lesson in the Attitude of Gratitude mindset is Treasure Yourself. For many of all ages, students often struggle with managing their emotions and may feel overwhelmed when embarrassed or upset. They’re also beginning to explore their identity, navigate friendships, and develop a deeper curiosity about the world around them. Many tend to focus on their flaws rather than celebrating their strengths, relying heavily on encouragement from others.

This lesson introduces the Attitude of Gratitude Mindset, helping students recognize and appreciate what makes them special. By shifting their focus to their best qualities, they’ll build a stronger sense of self-worth and confidence. Understanding their unique value will empower them to embrace who they are and see the positive impact they can have on the world.

Mindset Mondays will be offered every Monday that school is in session. This year we are working through Course 1, which means returning students will be learning fresh and new content. One of my favorite things about the 7 Mindsets curriculum is each year continues to provide new and different information. I look forward to seeing your students in class as we explore the Attitude of Gratitude Mindset!

You will find the class times below. Classes are arranged by grade levels as follows:

Grades K-2: 9:30 am Zoom link

Grades 3-5: 10:30 am Zoom link

Grades 6-12: 11:30 am Zoom link

You can also go directly to your Clever dashboard and click on the Mindset Monday tile to join the class easily!

The lessons are approximately 45 minutes long and designed to be interactive group lessons; however, because we recognize the importance of students attending comfortably, each student may choose their level of participation in the lesson.

"Greatness is not measured by what a man or woman accomplishes, but by the opposition he or she has overcome to reach his/her goals." – Dorothy Height

Each lesson includes an engaging slideshow, video, and activity. Click on the link that matches your student’s age or grade. You’ll find a fun icebreaker, a video lesson, and some discussion questions you can use to invite your students into conversation. There’s also an activity to bring the idea alive in your student’s life. Have fun connecting and learning how to have an Attitude of Gratitude!

Grades: K-2
Grades: 3-5
Grades: Middle School
Grades: High School

This year, I am excited to bring your students Mindful Movement classes *in person* a few times each month! We have been having SO MUCH FUN moving together! Join me and fellow students as we practice mindful movement together! All ages of Cottonwood students are welcome, including parents!

February Mindful Movement classes will focus on providing opportunities for students to practice the movements of the PFT as well as supportive breathing while completing aerobic activities. The dates are as follows (weather permitting):

Wednesday at the Rocklin Park Day on February 19, 11-12 pm

Wednesday at the Elk Grove Park Day on February 26 12pm

Movement classes are open to all Cottonwood students in all grades. If your student is in the younger grades, please be prepared to support their movement, if needed. We will have some mats available to borrow; however, students can feel free to bring their own, along with their own water bottles or hydration preferences, and dress in movement attire. Please refer to the Wednesday Weekly for information and updates on Park Days.

No need to register ahead of time!

Last week, we were thrilled to introduce a new opportunity for our families to explore: the Let Grow Experience. Let Grow has been at the forefront of the movement for childhood independence, advocating for the idea that kids are far more capable than our culture often acknowledges.

As part of this initiative, The Cottonwood School’s SELF Talk Newsletter introduced a monthly Let Grow challenge for families to take on together. February’s theme centered around leadership, encouraging students to step into leadership roles by taking initiative and getting things started. Leadership comes in many forms—on the sports field, at home, with friends, in public spaces, or even online. Have fun continuing to explore more of February’s Let Grow Experience.

• The Great Kindness Challenge was from January 27-31, but let’s keep the kindness flowing!!! Please share with us any random act of kindness activity your family participates in! Send in your photos to us to celebrate all the Kindness that is created!

• If your family explores the Let Grow February Experience, please share with us any reflections your student might have! Send in your photos and reflections to celebrate kids stepping up and parents stepping back!

Email SELF@cottonwoodk12.org for submissions and questions.