3/17/25 SELF Talk Social Emotional Learning Foundations Newsletter
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“Carry out a random act of kindness, with no expectation of reward, safe in the knowledge that one day someone might do the same for you.” – Princess Diana
Many students struggle to see things from another person’s perspective. The Live to Give Mindset helps them recognize the impact they can have on others and how generosity leads to greater happiness and success. Younger students are often accustomed to instant feedback and quick rewards. Through this mindset, they begin to understand that one of the most fulfilling and immediate ways to experience joy is by making a difference in someone else’s life.
Middle schoolers, who may be naturally focused on their own experiences, are introduced to the idea that abundance flows in a cycle—giving love and respect is the key to receiving it in return. The Make a Difference lesson highlights the power of service and encourages students to connect with causes that matter to them.
For high school students, who can sometimes become absorbed in their personal challenges, this week’s lesson shifts the focus outward. They learn that contributing to others not only benefits those in need, but also creates a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment in their own lives.
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Log in directly from your Clever dashboard now!
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 Live to Give 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.
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“Everyone can do simple things to make a difference, and every little bit really does count.” – Stella McCartney
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 Live to Give!
Grades: K-2 Grades: 3-5 Grades: Middle School Grades: High School
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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!
March Mindful Movement classes (weather permitting):
Wednesday at Derr Okamoto Park in Elk Grove on March 19, 11 am
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!
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The Big Life Journal printable activities, purchased by Cottonwood for your students, offer additional opportunities to extend learning as students focus on learning more about becoming aware of their emotions and continuing their exploration of Live to Give!
Big Life Journal Activity: T-Shirt for a Cause
BLJ Teen Activity: Make a Difference
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Martial Arts, Motivation, and Mastery: How to Succeed
Join Master Amitis Pourarian, a former Olympic athlete and Fox40 Sacramento’s Remarkable Woman of 2023, for a motivational event on March 20 from 11 am to 12:30 pm in Roseville.
Master Pourarian will teach kids how to tap into their motivation and empower themselves so they can succeed in everything from school to sports to life. She will talk about her own success as a businesswoman, including in traditionally male-dominated fields such as construction management, which was her previous career, and her success as a small business owner. Then, she’ll help kids tap into their own strength as they learn martial arts and self-defense skills they can use in their everyday lives.
Come join us for a unique opportunity to be motivated, inspired, and learn some martial arts from by an 8th-degree black belt and the highest-ranking woman in the Moo Do Taekwondo Association! Register today for Martial Arts, Motivation and Mastery: How to Succeed!
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Build Connections
The Let Grow Experience empowers students to build independence and confidence through monthly challenges. Each month, we share a new opportunity for families to explore together, helping students develop important life skills.
This month, students will continue exploring leadership through the power of connection. Strong relationships not only bring joy, but also help us navigate challenges and disagreements with curiosity rather than conflict. By taking the lead in building meaningful connections, students will strengthen their social skills, foster self-discovery, and grow as confident, supportive leaders.
You can find more information and resources on the Parent Nest!
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Download this great resource and give it a try with your students!
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Kelly McIntosh
Kelly is using Smore to create beautiful newsletters |
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