“Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren’t always comfortable, but they’re never weakness.” – Brené Brown

Growing isn’t always about doing more—it’s about daring to do things differently. While students at all ages may stick to what feels safe or familiar, this lesson invites them to step into new experiences with courage. It reminds us that being vulnerable—facing our fears, expressing our emotions, and trying something new—is not a weakness, but a powerful way to grow. Whether it’s the fear of failure, judgment, or simply the unknown, choosing to be open and take risks can lead to confidence, connection, and discovery. This is how we grow—one brave step at a time.

We resume Mindset Monday TODAY at our regularly scheduled Zoom times!

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 Time is Now 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.

“True courage is not the absence of fear – but the willingness to proceed in spite of it.” – Unknown

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 The Time is Now!

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!

Mindful Movement classes are pausing for April due to CAASPP testing and Spring Break and will resume in May:

Wednesday at Kaseberg Park in Roseville on May 14, 10 am

Wednesday at Horseshoe Park in Elk Grove on May 21 at 10 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!

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!

• Please share with us any SELF Talk or Mindset activity you engaged in this week! Each student who submits a photo and description depicting a completion of a 7 Mindsets lesson and activity and/or a Big Life Journal activity (or both!) will be entered into a monthly raffle to receive a SELF Superstar certificate and a fun prize! The raffle winner will be featured as a SELF Superstar in the next SELF Talk newsletter!

• If your family explores the Let Grow April 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.