"Dreams come a size too big so we can grow into them." – Josie Bissett

I’m excited for this year of learning, growing, and connecting together! In SELF, we focus on the skills that help us show up as our best selves—at school, at home, and in our communities. Through stories, conversations, activities, and our 7 Mindsets curriculum, students will discover tools that build resilience, spark curiosity, and remind us all that growth is possible at every age.

Here’s how the 7 Mindsets will come to life across grade levels:

• K–2 students are full of energy and curiosity. They’ll begin by exploring what the 7 Mindsets mean and how they show up in their own lives.

• Grades 3–5 are discovering who they are. Together, they’ll connect the Mindsets to real-world examples and what those lessons look like in everyday life.

• Middle schoolers often face doubt and fear. These lessons help them revisit the 7 Mindsets and begin to apply them in meaningful ways.

• High schoolers are navigating identity, stress, and big choices. The 7 Mindsets offer both an introduction for new students and a deeper guide for those continuing, helping them see how their decisions shape who they’re becoming.

Families are encouraged to try this week’s lesson together at home—but if that’s not possible, no worries! Just join us on September 8 when we kick off Mindset Mondays. Each week, we’ll blend the 7 Mindsets, Zones of Regulation, and practical tools for managing emotions to help students thrive inside and outside the classroom.

Mindset Mondays will be offered every Monday that school is in session, beginning next week, September 8, 2025. This year, we are working through Course 2, continuing our journey through the 7 Mindsets curriculum. One of my favorite things about the 7 Mindsets is that it continues to provide new and different information each year. I look forward to seeing your students in class next Monday as we explore the Everything is Possible Mindset in September together!

Mindset Mondays are taught on Zoom each Monday that school is in session. Zoom links are provided below, available on the Event Calendar in the Nest, and through your student’s Clever dashboard.

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

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.

“Make each day your masterpiece.” – John Wooden

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 that Everything is Possible!

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

Mindful Moments are Back!

This year, I’m excited to offer Mindful Moments classes in person a few times each month! Just like last year, we’ll enjoy mindful movement together—but this year, we’ll also be incorporating games, music, fitness and stretching, and other fun activities to help us move, connect, and recharge. All Cottonwood students are welcome to join, and parents are encouraged to jump in, too!

September Mindful Moments:
Wednesday at Derr Okamoto Park, Elk Grove, on September 3, 10 am

Wednesday at Woodbridge Park, Roseville, on September 17 at 10 am

Classes are open to all grade levels. If your student is in the younger grades, please plan to support their participation as needed. A few mats will be available to borrow, though students are encouraged to bring their own, along with water and comfortable movement attire.

Check the Cottonwood Chronicle or check with your HST for updates on Park Days.
No registration required—just come as you are!

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.

September’s project is all about stretching independence. Students are encouraged to try something new on their own—big or small—that helps them step outside their comfort zone. For younger kids, it might be chalk art or making lunch. By first or second grade, it could be walking to a friend’s house or playing at the park. As they grow, the challenges can too—like shopping for ingredients and baking a cake. Each step toward independence builds confidence and growth!

You can find more information and resources on the Parent Nest!

Email SELF@cottonwoodk12.org for submissions and questions.