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Raising Legends: Celebrating Potential and Perseverance in Special Education
Submission by:
Jackie LiVolsi-Harman, M. Ed.
Assistant Director of Special Education
Hello Wonderful Cottonwood Families,
I’m so excited to connect with you in this month’s newsletter and share a perspective from the world of Special Education. Did you know that here at Cottonwood we currently have 314 students with active Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)? These plans are created for students with disabilities who benefit from extra support, such as specialized services and accommodations tailored to their unique needs.
Behind every IEP is a dedicated team of individuals from diverse backgrounds, all united by one mission: to provide your student(s) with the support they need to thrive. Each team member brings a unique perspective, and together, we create a student-centered approach to special education. Our goal is to partner with you, as families, to help your child achieve their own version of success—something they can feel proud of and take ownership of.
To inspire you, I’d like to highlight a few famous individuals who faced learning challenges yet went on to make a lasting impact on the world:
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Ludwig van Beethoven
One of history’s greatest musicians, Beethoven overcame hearing loss and challenges believed to be related to ADHD and dyslexia. Despite these obstacles, he composed legendary symphonies, piano sonatas, and even an opera.
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Agatha Christie
Known as one of the best-selling authors of all time, Agatha Christie wrote 66 detective novels and numerous romance stories, even while living with dyslexia. Her works have been translated into more languages than Shakespeare’s!
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Thomas Edison
Perhaps the most famous inventor in history, Edison had a curious mind and boundless energy that would likely be described today as ADHD. He held over 1,000 patents, including the light bulb, phonograph, and alkaline battery.
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Albert Einstein
A brilliant mathematician and physicist, Einstein didn’t speak until age three and reportedly struggled with challenges like dyslexia, dysgraphia, and word retrieval. Yet, he developed the groundbreaking theory of relativity and won the Nobel Prize for Physics, all while advocating for justice and peace.
Now, imagine our world without the contributions of these extraordinary individuals. What they achieved despite their challenges reminds us of the incredible potential within every child.
As a Cottonwood community, let’s work together to instill confidence in our children—helping them recognize their unique gifts and the important role they are meant to play in the world. Remember, some of the greatest legends and superheroes faced the biggest challenges, and they persevered.
Here’s to raising our own legends and superheroes of all shapes and sizes!
Please check out the resource utilized in today’s piece to share with your student: 21 People Who Succeeded Despite a Learning Disability
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Meet Our Special Education Department!
Three things the Special Education Department wants you to know:
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We care about each and every student. We appreciate our SPED families and the work they do in the home. We work hard to make TCS an amazing school for students with disabilities.
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We partner with families to ensure the success of students, we work as a team, and we are all experienced educators with a great deal of knowledge.
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Student-Centered Focus – Our goal is to ensure that each student receives the appropriate resources, accommodations, and support needed to thrive.
Collaboration with Families – We value strong communication and teamwork with families. Respect for Individual Strengths – We encourage each student’s unique strengths and interests.
Three adjectives that describe the TCS Special Education Department:
- Collaborative
- Compassionate
- Dedicated
These stand out because they combine emotional intelligence, professionalism and teamwork!
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Last Call: Touch of Understanding Workshop – Spaces Still Available!
Give your kids the chance to develop empathy, understanding, and a new perspective on disabilities at this impactful and one-of-a-kindTouch of Understanding Workshop.
📅 When: Wednesday, January 22 at 9:30 AM
👨👩👧👦 Who: Best for grades 3–12, but all ages are welcome!
Why Participate?
- Hear inspiring stories from individuals with disabilities.
- Experience hands-on activities like using wheelchairs and writing in Braille.
- Gain insight into the challenges and triumphs of living with visible and invisible disabilities.
Support this incredible organization while giving your kids the tools to build empathy, compassion, and respect for others.
Click the button to register and get all the event details!
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Registration will close Friday, Jan 17
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YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS A THING!
- Cottonwood Visual Arts Program: Updated Nest Page and Art Exhibition
- Testing Tip of the Week: Persuasive Writing Prompts
- Educational Design Experts: Upcoming Parent Education Opportunity
- TK-8 Instructional Programs: TK Explorers, Superstar Readers, Boost, and RISE
- HS Counseling: Concurrent Enrollment and FAFSA Requirements
- CVHS: Spring Enrollments
- CCPA: School Project Updates
- Everybody Belongs: Slavic Dumplings Immersive Cooking Class
- Lending Library: Upcoming Storytime, Literati Book Fair, Placerville LOL Site
- And More…
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And always at the end of The Wednesday Weekly (only visible if you open the newsletter in a browser – click "View in browser" at the top of this email):
- Registration links and schedules for Park Days, Mondays at the CCC, and the Lending Library.
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You can find more info about dates and events throughout the newsletter or on the Hawks’ Nest calendar.
Remember, this list does not include all events hosted by The Cottonwood School. Please check your personal calendar and email for field trip reminders, class reminders, and more.
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Coming Up:
- Fri, Jan 17: National Honor Society Application Deadline extended
- Mon, Jan 20: Martin Luther King Jr. Day, school closed
- Weds, Jan 22:
Looking Ahead:
- Fri, Jan 24:
- Teacher In-Service Day; expect a delayed response time from all staff
- Lending Library and Suite 100 closed for Teacher In-Service Day
- Mon, Jan 27:
- Weds, Jan 29:
- Thurs, Feb 13: March Event Registration, 12:30 pm
- Fri, April 4th: Prom for all 9th – 12th grade students
- Fri, April 11th: The Cottonwood School’s Annual Maker’s Market
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Discover the Updated Visual Arts Page on The Hawks' Nest!
Have you visited the updated Visual Arts page in The Hawks’ Nest? It’s a treasure trove of creativity, featuring printable activities, learning tools, class information, and a quick link to upload submissions for our virtual art gallery!
Where to Find It: Navigate to the Academics section of The Hawks’ Nest, under Instructional Programs > Visual Arts.
These fantastic resources are available to ALL Cottonwood students, whether or not you’re enrolled in our Art Electives. Explore today and unlock a world of artistic opportunities for your family!
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🎨 Join the LIVE Cottonwood Student Art Exhibition! 🎨
We’re thrilled to invite our creative TK-12 students to participate in the Cottonwood Student Art Exhibition, a celebration of artistic expression showcased at the Lending Library this January and February.
How to Join the Exhibition:
1️⃣ Create Your Art: Share your creativity through paintings, drawings, sculptures, photography, or mixed media.
2️⃣ Submit Your Work: Drop off your artwork at the Lending Library by January 24, 2025.
Submission Guidelines:
- Attach artwork to thick black cardstock or frame it.
- Mount multimedia pieces on a sturdy base.
- Include an index card with:
- Title of Piece
- Student Name
- Grade/Age
- Materials Used
- Photography submissions must be clear.
- Ensure all artwork is appropriate for all audiences.
✨ Bonus: All submissions will also be featured in a virtual gallery on The Hawks’ Nest!
Let’s transform our school into a vibrant gallery celebrating student creativity. Don’t miss this chance to showcase your talent — we can’t wait to see your art!
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Reminder: February Service Orders Deadline Approaching!
As February quickly approaches, we want to remind families about the important deadlines for February service orders.
Key Date January 17th: February Service Orders:
- The final day to submit February service orders to your HST for approval is January 17th.
- February service orders submitted after January 17th will not be accepted. (THIS FRIDAY)
- If you need assistance or have questions, please reach out to your HST for support.
*Please note if you have a student who is currently on the waitlist for a semester service and they are granted a spot with the Community Partner, the following steps should be taken:
- Order must be submitted and approved by your HST and processed by the Business Department prior to attending classes.
- To avoid any processing delays, include in the comments that your student was part of the waitlist.
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Workshop 3 ends this week on January 15th. Workshop 4 begins January 29th.
If you would like to sign your student up, contact your HST or email karlie.garcia@cottonwoodk12.org
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Steps to Succeed With Persuasive Writing Prompts
Teaching kids persuasive writing for the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) can be a rewarding and important process. It’s essential to equip students with the skills to develop strong arguments and present them clearly.
Here’s a guide for parents on how to help their kids succeed with persuasive writing:
1. Understand what the CAASPP Writing Task is
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The CAASPP requires students to write clearly, logically, and persuasively on a given topic.
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Students must take a position on an issue and support it with evidence, reasoning, and examples.
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The writing should be coherent, well-organized, and error-free.
2. Focus on the Structure of Persuasive Writing
A persuasive essay typically follows this structure:
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Introduction: Begin with a hook that grabs the reader’s attention (e.g., a fact, quote, or question). Clearly state the position on the issue with your 2- 3 reasons you are choosing to persuade the reader (thesis statement).
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Body Paragraphs (usually 2-3): Each paragraph should present one reason for the stance. The reasoning should be supported by evidence such as facts, statistics, personal experiences, or logical arguments.
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Counterargument (optional): Acknowledge the opposing viewpoint and explain why it is weaker or less valid than your position.
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Conclusion: Restate the thesis and summarize the key points. End with a call to action or a strong closing statement.
3. Teach the Importance of a Strong Thesis Statement
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Help your child understand that the thesis statement is the backbone of their argument. It should clearly convey what they are trying to persuade the reader to believe or do.
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Practice brainstorming strong, debatable thesis statements. For example:
4. Support Ideas with Evidence
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Teach students to gather evidence to support their arguments. This could include facts, statistics, quotes from experts, or examples.
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Encourage them to find evidence that is reliable and credible.
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For example: If arguing that school uniforms help reduce bullying, your child might refer to studies or reports that show the positive impact of uniforms on reducing peer pressure or improving school culture.
5. Teach Effective Transitions
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Transitions are important for the flow of ideas between paragraphs and sentences.
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Teach your child how to use words like:
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For adding information: furthermore, additionally, moreover
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For introducing an example: for instance, such as, for example
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For showing contrast: however, on the other hand, although
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Practice writing sentences with transitions to help the writing flow smoothly.
6. Focus on Writing Clearly and Concisely
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Encourage your child to write in clear, simple language that is easy to understand.
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Avoid overly complex sentences or long-winded explanations. CAASPP assessments reward clarity and precision.
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Teach them how to break down long ideas into shorter, more digestible sentences.
We will continue next week talking about the next steps.
Happy prepping!
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Missed previous Testing Tips?
Never fear! All of the Testing Tips of the Week are available in the Nest!
Where to Find It: Navigate to the Academics section of The Hawks’ Nest > Test Success Tips
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Our team is here to support you in optimizing your curriculum, so please join us during office hours with your questions!
Curriculum Office Hours:
Mondays 10 am
Thursdays 3 pm
Curriculum Zoom
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While your students explore interactive stations showcasing a variety of teaching methods, you’ll attend a dynamic parent workshop in the adjoining room.
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NJHS and NHS Application Deadline Extended!
Attention Cottonwood students and families! The National Honor Society has extended the application deadline for an additional week. Any students who would still like to fill out an application should submit their application by this Friday, Jan 17. Applications will be reviewed next week, and applicants will receive a response by Friday, Jan. 31. Applicants who are accepted will receive an official invitation to our virtual Induction Ceremony on Thursday, Feb. 6, from 5-6 pm.
Students who are either 7th-9th grade with a 3.0 GPA, or 10th-12th grade with a 3.5 GPA, are encouraged to apply. For more information about our program and links to the application, use the documents below.
For Questions: kyle.lutkemuller@cottonwoodk12.org
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Ms. Gina and Ms. Lorraine are so excited about the spring semester and looking forward to working with our TK Explorers! Park days, TK events and TK Circle Time will continue this semester and we have some exciting new things to look forward to as well.
We are so excited to announce that Kelly McIntosh, our Social Emotional Learning Foundations Coordinator will join our TK Coordinators one Friday per month to offer social-emotional lessons and guidance to our TKers. She had her first visit last Friday and it was a hit! Music, Spanish and art electives will continue to be offered for “Fun Fridays” as well.
To learn more about what we have in store for the month of January, please click on the link below to view the January edition of the TK Explorer newsletter.
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There is still time to join us for spring semester! Sign up for Superstar Readers with the TK-8 request form. Classes start Monday, January 27!
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Classes take flight next week!
Boost teachers are excited to kick off the spring semester with the first day of classes on Tuesday, January 21st. Teachers have planned a semester full of adventure and learning for their students that we cannot wait to share with you!
Are you curious about what Boost teachers have in store for their students this spring? Head to the Parents’ Nest, where you can preview Boost teacher’s Spring Flight Plans, and get a glimpse of some of the incredible learning that will be taking place.
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Save the Date – Museum Tour + Workshop Opportunity for All TCS 8th Graders
Join Mrs. Coller and RISE English 8 at Crocker Art Museum to explore art and literacy connections through:
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a guided tour of American stories through art
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discussions about artists’ choices and how they impact the story conveyed
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application of learning in a guided sketching workshop
When: Wednesday, February 26, 9:30 am – 12:00 pm
Where: Crocker Art Museum, 216 O Street, Sacramento
Who: All TCS 8th Graders
Chaperones: Drop-off optional (waivers required), or parents may purchase a day pass to the museum
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Concurrent Enrollment POE Reminder
Now that spring course registration is open for all local community colleges, please remember to send in your proof of enrollment to your counselor ASAP! If you have any questions about concurrent enrollment, reach out to your counselor.
*Proof of Enrollment (POE) = college name, student name, courses enrolled with dates
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Graduating Students: Important Requirements!
For your students who are graduating this year,
As part of California’s new graduation requirement under AB 469, all graduating students must complete the FAFSA or CADAA if they plan to attend college or trade schools. Students not pursuing further education should complete the Opt-Out survey linked here:
Opt-Out Form
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Contact your Counselor
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The CVHS Quick Start Guide is the WAY TO GO if you have any questions or need help getting your student started in CVHS classes.
CVHS is now taking Spring Enrollments! To request/change/drop a class use this CVHS Request Form.
CVHS Class Drop Info:
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The last day to drop a Spring CVHS class for a full refund is this Friday, Jan. 17th
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For students starting later than Jan. 6th, they will have 2 full weeks (after they register) to drop the class, to receive a full refund
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Refunds will automatically return to the student account within a week of filling out the CVHS Class Request Form
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Monopoly in Econ at CCPA!
Our Econ class took a classic game and gave it a fresh, educational twist! Instead of playing Monopoly the traditional way, students dove into a modified version that brought real-world economic concepts to life. Players started with different amounts of money based on “economic classes,” which immediately highlighted income inequality and sparked discussions about wealth distribution. To make things even more realistic, players were limited to buying certain color properties based on their economic class, showcasing how access to opportunities can vary.
The entire point of this game was to take a closer look at capitalism as a whole and dissect the challenges lower economic classes face while trying to survive in this system. It was a hands-on, eye-opening experience that connected classroom lessons to real-world issues. At CCPA, learning goes far beyond textbooks and lectures. We bring concepts to life in fun and meaningful ways!
Whether it’s transforming a classic game like Monopoly into a hands-on lesson about income inequality and market dynamics or diving into immersive interdisciplinary projects, we’re all about making education engaging and relevant. Our approach empowers students to connect classroom lessons to the real world, sparking critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity. This is just one example of how we turn learning into an exciting, interactive experience that prepares our students to tackle big ideas and real-world challenges.
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Celebrate Eastern European Heritage Month with us on Jan. 22nd!
We still have room for the Pelmeni immersive cooking class for the afternoon session where your student will create delicious Pelmeni/Varenyky, Eastern European dumplings filled with either meat or a veggie filling.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned chef, our class is designed to guide your 4th-grade and older students through each step with hands-on instruction in making Pelmeni/Varenyky. Learning to master basic techniques and explore future ideas, they’ll leave with new skills and tasty creations – a great experience to have with friends. No experience is needed—just bring enthusiasm and appetite!
Registration will close this Friday, Jan 17th.
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New session available! Join us for a fun and interactive cooking class where you'll learn to create delicious Pelmeni/Varenyky from scratch. They are Eastern European dumplings that are filled with either meat or a veggie filling. (4th grade & up)
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Upcoming Storytime & Craft Club
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Join us January 27th for Storytime & Craft Club! We’ll read Snow and A Warm Winter Tail and work on winter crafts!
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Literati Book Fair: February 10-14
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Mark your calendars for the Literati Book Fair February 10th-14th! Online orders begin January 13th. Watch upcoming Wednesday Weekly newsletters for details!
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NEW Library On Location Site
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We’re going to be visiting Placerville every month starting on January 29th. Pick up and drop off items at Lions Park between 12:30 and 1:30!
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Request items from the Lending Library to pick up or have delivered to a Library-on-Location stop near you!
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Pick up items that you requested from the Lending Library at one of our Library on Location events.
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Click here to learn how to set up your library account and access the system to reserve items!
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Mondays at the CCC (10am-2pm) continue into the Spring semester!
From 10 am-1 pm, Mondays at the CCC have an "Open House" vibe – please feel free to drop in whenever you’d like!
We do, however, ask that you use this signup to reserve your spots for our guided activities from 1-2 pm. Our specialty staff would like to be able to prepare for your students to have a great time! Check out the signup to see what activities are coming up, but please be sure to only sign up for the activities you plan to attend so we can resource appropriately.
We can’t wait to see you!
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Important Field Trip Information
- All registrations and payments are final. Please carefully read all details before registering for a field trip. Tickets are not transferable.
- Student ID Numbers are now required for registration.
- Punctuality is crucial. You must arrive at the designated start time for all events. If you arrive late, you will not be allowed to join, out of respect for the venue, coordinators, and other families.
- Direct parent supervision is required for the entire duration of all events unless it is a designated Teen Drop-Off event.
- Registration closes two weeks prior to the event date.
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A Touch of Understanding’s character-building disability-awareness workshop educates a new generation of students to understand the challenges associated with disabilities and to accept and respect all individuals.
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New session available! Join us for a fun and interactive cooking class where you'll learn to create delicious Pelmeni/Varenyky from scratch. They are Eastern European dumplings that are filled with either meat or a veggie filling. (4th grade & up)
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Equip your family with tools to stay safe and confident. Our Family Safety and Empowerment Workshop teaches kids age-appropriate safety skills while providing parents with strategies to protect and empower their children.
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Join Play-Well TEKnologies for an exciting workshop! With access to tens of thousands of LEGO® parts, you and your student will work together to put your creativity in action as they explore concepts in physics and engineering!
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Come out for a morning of ice skating! This will be an exclusive event for The Cottonwood School.
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Learn abut Traditional West African Dance that is free and expressive, also loaded with history and culture. Come watch a performance and perfect your dance moves, as well as learn the African drumming technique.
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Join us as we learn to ski and enjoy being outside on the slopes! For those new to skiing, we are offering full-day and half-day ski lessons for ages 5-13.
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See the glitz, glamor, and tragic romance of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s timeless novel LIVE on stage, featuring a multinational cast of 40 professional ballet dancers!
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Join us for a vibrant field trip where creativity meets nature and groovy vibes! Students will dive into the colorful art of tie-dyeing, designing their very own one-of-a-kind t-shirts—perfect for future Cottonwood events.
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Come and join us for painting with friends on an 11×14 canvas. This is a class led by a Pinot Palette's instructor. The students will be painting while the required chaperone(s) will be observing and helping their student(s).
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Art and literacy come together as we tour the Crocker Art Museum and observe the elements that artists include to tell their stories and bring their messages to life.
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Come join author Megan Ricciardi for this fun workshop! Each student will make a puppet and learn how to write a story using their puppet as the main character! Each student will take home their puppet and a copy of one of the author's books.
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Registration for waitlists opened Tuesday, January 14th at 12:30 pm. Visit the links below to add yourself to waitlists.
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Visit The Harris Center for this fun, interactive show!
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The STEM program at IFLY inspires and educates students through an immersive, educational program where they first learn science and technology, and then actually fly in the wind tunnel!
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Do you love space? Well, then, you are going to love this field trip! Come get a close-up look at the galaxy at the Sacramento State Planetarium. This in door field trip is for all ages and is free!
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TubeTahoe is the home of winter fun for the whole family in South Lake Tahoe. At over 500 feet in length, our machine groomed tubing lanes are some of the longest in the area. Bring a snack and some water, we are going to have some serious fun!
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Little Orphan Annie has reminded generations of theatergoers that sunshine is always right around the corner, and now the best-loved musical of all time is set to return in a new production – just as you remember it and just when we need it most.
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Join us for some Valentine’s Day Fun! Students will decorate a Valentine's bag, enjoy a story, and rotate through Valentine’s Day-themed games and activities. We'll also have an opportunity to pass out and get Valentine's from everyone in attendance.
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Come and enjoy CYT's rendition of Singin' in the Rain. This show is not only hilarious but is chock full of wonderful singing and dancing. Don't miss this opportunity to see a truly special performance.
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We will be joined by avid outdoors professionals from the Tahoe Institute of Natural Sciences for a snowshoeing adventure at Chickadee Ridge (North Lake Tahoe). While we are snowshoeing, we will learn all about Winter Wildlife Survival!
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While painting their ceramic piece, students will have the opportunity to connect with their peers. This will be a special time for artistic expression and developing friendships.
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On this page, you will find work samples, educational resources for specific trips, Field Trip Journal pages, and more!
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You can find this comprehensive guide to field trips and events in the Parent Nest!
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Find a comprehensive list of all our planned events for the upcoming school year! This list will grow all year!
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Use this planning spreadsheet (virtually or use the printable version) for all events opening December 12th at 12:30 pm.
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This form is required for chaperones bringing children on field trips that are non-custodial adult chaperones.
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Log-in required. See Hawks' Nest section near the top for login info.
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- OFFICIAL Facebook Community Group
- Official and private, moderated by Cottonwood School staff.
- Ensures accurate information and verifies active members as parents/legal guardians.
- A secure space for information, updates, and community connections.
- Public Instagram
- Pinterest – Tons of resources and ideas to be found.
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General Resources for Parents
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THE COTTONWOOD SCHOOL
Serving transitional kindergarten through 12th-grade students in El Dorado, Amador, Alpine, Placer, and Sacramento Counties.
Location: 3921 Sandstone Dr. Ste 100, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762, USA
Phone: (530) 285-2003
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Kara Parkins
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