“The moment you take responsibility for everything in your life is the moment you can change anything in your life.” – Hal Elrod

Elementary and middle school students are strongly shaped by the voices around them. In this lesson, students will explore why it’s important to trust their own thinking instead of letting negative opinions define who they are. When we believe in ourselves and act in accordance with our values, we open the door to doing meaningful things in the world.

This week, we begin learning about the 100% Accountable Mindset. Being accountable means taking ownership of our choices, actions, and attitudes. It’s about recognizing that we have control over how we show up, even when situations feel hard or unfair. When we “own our lives,” we don’t hand our power over to other people’s words or expectations.

At the middle and high school stage of development, students especially need encouragement to see their strengths and possibilities. Through this lesson, students will practice valuing their own thoughts and decisions, learning that their voice matters. Together, we’ll reflect on what it really means to take responsibility for our actions and choices.

Learning accountability isn’t always easy. Everyone experiences setbacks, mistakes, and moments of doubt. What shapes our future is how we respond—whether we give up or keep moving forward. Students will learn to recognize obstacles, challenge limiting beliefs, and develop strategies to work through difficulties.

Ultimately, students of all ages will discover that they are in charge of how they respond to both challenges and opportunities. By owning their choices and staying focused on growth, they can move forward with confidence—even when it feels uncomfortable or difficult.

*There will be no Zoom class on Monday, January 19 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr Day*

Mindset Mondays will be offered every Monday that school is in session. 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 as we explore the 100% Accountable mindset 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.

"Whatever the circumstance, fabulous or frustrating, you have the power to choose how you’ll respond. No one can take this from you. Don’t give your power away." – Cynthia Occelli

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 discussion questions to help you invite your students into conversation. There’s also an activity to bring the idea alive in your students’ lives. Have fun connecting and exploring how to be 100% Accountable!

Grades: K-2
Grades: 3-5
Grades: 6-8

High School

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 incorporate games, music, fitness, 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!

January Mindful Moments:

January 28 10am Johnson Springview Park Rocklin

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 for upcoming park days featuring Mindful Moments. You can find all the Park Day Schedules on the Nest in the Family Liaisons section.
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.

January’s project, "Think Outside the Box," invites your child to lend a hand to someone outside their immediate family. They might choose to support a friend, a neighbor, or a member of the community — anyone who could benefit from a small act of kindness. It’s an opportunity for them to broaden their circle of service and practice giving without expecting anything in return. Reaching out beyond the walls of your home also encourages them to step outside their comfort zone and build new connections.

Serving others not only makes a meaningful difference but also supports your child’s personal growth. It can spark joy, increase empathy, and help them shift their focus away from themselves.

As they decide whom to help and what kind of support to offer, they’re also learning about their own strengths, interests, and values. Give them the space to take the lead — and watch as they discover their ability to create positive change in the world around them.

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

Email SELF@cottonwoodk12.org for submissions and questions.