Principal's Post
Wow! It's hard to believe it's already October. As an educator, the school year is way more significant in my life than the calendar year. My friends and family know that opening the school year is a busy (and sometimes stressful, especially during the pandemic) time for me. And when they ask, "So how has the opening of school been this year?" one word comes to my mind this year - JOYFUL. There is an amazing energy on campus. The teachers and I did several trainings in August that have added a new spark to instruction. Our parent groups have a common vision and are connecting parents with one another. We have awesome volunteers working on campus. And, students are reaping the benefit of all of this and thriving!
This edition has some highlights of the great learning happening on campus, info about upcoming events, and resources for parents. If you have any questions, concerns, or ideas you want to share, please reach out.
Keep being awesome!
Principal Estrada
#growwithgratitude
Grow with Gratitude
When we have an attitude of gratitude, it can make us happier which releases endorphins and wakes up our brains. Practicing gratitude is a skill and, like any skill, the more we practice the easier it gets. This month when I visit classrooms, I will be reading a story with a message about gratitude and encouraging students to practice gratitude with these 4 steps.
Think - Think about why that person is in your life.
Feel - How do you feel when you think about that person?
Do - What will you do to show that person you are thankful for them?
That 4th step is key. Expressing gratitude to others gives them an opportunity to experience the same benefits of feeling happy and releasing endorphins.
Spotlight on Academics
Here are some thoughts on how to get the most out of this experience:
- Embrace a growth mindset and the power of yet! - The first report card is a status check of how students are performing on meeting grade level standards at the beginning of the year. The goal is mastery of the standard in June after consistent instruction, practice and effort.
- Ask about specific ways you can support your student at home. What skills need more developing? What areas of strength could be encouraged?
- Ask about non-academic progress and character too - Does my student have a love of learning? How do they respond to challenges? Are they a kind and respectful member of the school community? Do they take responsibility for their learning and behavior?
- Assume positive intent - Your child's teacher wants them to be successful and sees the best in them. But, they also see them from a different perspective and in a different environment. This may lead to a difficult conversation, but it is important to be on the same page.
Spotlight on Safety
7 ways to be safe while walking to school
- Look both ways and use crosswalks — but don't assume you're seen.
- Make eye contact with the driver.
- Eyes up, phones down.
- Walk in a group.
- Cross with an adult.
- Be a good role model.
- Be visible.
The City of Newport Beach provides crossing guards at 13th and 14th Street before and immediately after school each day to assist our students. Please always cross with the crossing guard, encourage your child to follow all safety laws, and be a good role model.
The NBPD is hosting a Bicycle Safety Meeting. See graphic below for details.
 |  |  |
Important Dates
October 1 - NESF Annual Car Show on the beach - 10am to 2pm
October 3 - Art Masters #2 - assembly and classroom lessons
October 5 - National Walk to School Day
October 7 - Flag Deck @ 8:15 in the Quad
October 12 - Family Literacy Night - 5:30-7:00 in the MPR
October 13 - Make-Up Picture Day
October 20 - Great Shake Out - Disaster Preparedness Drill
October 21 - Flag Deck @ 8:15 in the Quad
October 24-28 - Red Ribbon Week, see flyer below for details
October 24-28 - Conference Week - 1:00 Dismissal time daily
October 25 - Boo Bash hosted by PTA at the Balboa Fun Zone
October 26 - No School for Students
October 31 - Halloween music performance by PreK-1st grade @ 8:15 in the Quad
November 1 - No School for Students
School Volunteers
All interested volunteers are asked to complete these 3 steps annually:
- Read through the Newport El Volunteer Orientation slide deck.
- Complete the Newport El Volunteer Agreement.
- Complete the district's volunteer approval process.
As always, every teacher utilizes volunteers in different ways. Teachers will be communicating with the approved volunteers from their class about their need for volunteers and scheduling.
Our Office Staff is Here to Help
Main Line: 949-515-6965
Absence Line: 949-515-6832
Attendance and enrollment questions:
Debbie Kandel - dkandel@nmusd.us
Health, medications, and immunizations questions:
Dana Hansen - dhansen@nmusd.us and
Nurse Sarah Hacker - shacker@nmusd.us
All Other Inquiries:
Susi Mendoza - ajimenezmendoza@nmusd.us
 |  |  |
The Point The Point is a weekly communication from Newport El's Foundation and PTA. Sign up to receive weekly email newsletter. | PTA Joining PTA is a great way to get involved and support our school. | Foundation The Newport El Foundation supports enrichment programs that benefit all students. Direct questions to contact@newportelfoundation.org |
The Point
Sign up to receive weekly email newsletter.
Foundation
Direct questions to contact@newportelfoundation.org
