"Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance." ~ Eckhart Tolle

Many young students are full of energy, enthusiasm, and a zest for new experiences. The Attitude of Gratitude mindset encourages recognizing the positives in life and appreciating what brings us joy. This week’s lesson helps students develop a habit of gratitude—toward themselves, others, and the world around them—leading to greater happiness and fulfillment.

It’s common for middle school students to focus on material things or compare themselves to others. The Be More Grateful lesson helps them recognize the value of what they already have and appreciate the moments that bring them happiness. By fostering gratitude, they can reframe their perspective and cultivate a more positive outlook.

Similarly, high school students often dwell on challenges or frustrations. This week they will learn that while difficulties are a natural part of growth, they also have the power to shift their focus toward the good. Through activities like keeping a gratitude journal, students will learn to recognize and document the positive aspects of their lives, discover silver linings in unexpected places, and appreciate acts of gratitude from those around them.

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 Whitney Community Park in Rocklin on February 19, 11am -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!

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.

February’s theme is Leadership, encouraging students to take initiative and step into leadership roles in different areas of life—at home, with friends, in school, or in the community. Keep the momentum going by embracing leadership in everyday moments and supporting your child’s growing independence!

You can find LOTS of information and resources on the Parent Nest!

• The Cottonwood School has been designated a 2025 Kindness Certified School! Please share with us any random act of kindness activity your family participates in our 7 Mindset lessons! Send your photos to us to celebrate all the kindness that is created! Each student who submits a photo and description of their random act of kindness will be featured as a Mindset Marvel in SELF Talk and will receive a Mindset Marvel certificate and a BJ’s Restaurant award for a kid’s meal! (Teens will receive a Starbucks treat!)

Email SELF@cottonwoodk12.org for submissions and questions.

• 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.