“Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a gift and not giving it.” – William Arthur Ward

Younger students thrive on encouragement, yet they can be so caught up in exploring, learning, and socializing that expressing gratitude doesn’t always come naturally. The Attitude of Gratitude mindset helps them develop the habit of saying “thank you” more often and “thanking it forward” by showing appreciation to those who support them. Taking the time to express gratitude—whether through words or actions—can become a lifelong habit that fosters happiness and stronger connections.

Middle schoolers, in particular, sometimes get caught up in challenges and emotions like frustration, jealousy, or regret. The Thank It Forward lesson this week encourages them to shift their focus toward the positive by recognizing what they are grateful for. Through activities like Gratitude Journals, students will practice identifying and appreciating the good in their lives.

As students grow into their high school years, they may not always realize the impact of expressing gratitude, but small acts of kindness and appreciation can strengthen relationships and create a more positive, respectful school environment. By learning to recognize and share their gratitude, students not only uplift those around them but also experience greater happiness themselves.

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.

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” -John F. Kennedy

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 Kammerer Park in Elk Grove 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.