“Hope lies in dreams, in imagination, and in the courage of those who dare to make dreams into reality.” – Jonas Salk

This week in SELF, we’re exploring what amazing things can happen when we Dream Big—a reminder that big dreams are worth chasing and that the challenges along the way are what help us grow. Elementary students will practice setting academic, behavioral, and social goals while learning that obstacles are part of the journey. Middle schoolers will take a closer look at how fear and self-doubt can hold them back and how believing in their dreams can move them forward. High school students will reflect on the power of trusting themselves, others, and the possibilities ahead, even in the face of stress or uncertainty. Across all ages, students are reminded that with vision, effort, and resilience, anything is possible when we choose to dream big.

We’d love for families to join in on these lessons—whether it’s setting goals together, talking about big dreams, or simply encouraging one another along the way. Your support helps students see that the Everything Is Possible Mindset isn’t just for school, but for life. Let’s dream big together!

Log in directly from your Clever dashboard now!

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 in class next Monday as we explore that Everything is Possible 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.

“No matter where you are from, your dreams are valid.” – Lupita Nyong’o

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!

Upcoming Mindful Moments:

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 for future park days where we will have 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.

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!

These Big Life Journal printable activities, purchased by Cottonwood for your students, offer additional opportunities to extend learning as students focus on learning more about becoming aware of their emotions and continuing their exploration of Everything is Possible!

Big Life Journal Activity: Dream Big

Big Life Journal Teen Activity: Dreaming Up Your Life

Email SELF@cottonwoodk12.org for submissions and questions.