November 2021
The Social Work Corner
Dear Families
Gratitude is a mindfulness practice that allows us to draw our attention to both the big events that we are grateful for, and the daily small things that color our day to day experiences. Research suggests, that people who take the time to notice and reflect upon the things they are thankful for experience more positive emotions, feel more alive, sleep better, and express more compassion and kindness!
We are grateful for all of our wonderful families and students that we have the pleasure of working with each day!
Wishing you all a safe, healthy and happy Thanksgiving!
Mrs. Vincent, Mrs. Martinez, and Ms. DeMartinis
Practicing Gratitude
Mindful Moment
What's Happening at Stewart School?
Unity Day was a huge success. In addition to classroom activities and a school wide assembly held by Mrs. Vincent, Mrs. Pashayan worked with each class to create this beautiful mural, entitled "Individually We Are Unique But Together We Are Beautiful"!
On November 3rd, all students will participate in a school wide assembly that will review our Stewart rules and expectations to making the school year a success!
I look forward to working with our fourth graders this month!
Stewart School's Odd Bird Mural
What's Happening at Stratford?
Unity was a great day for the Stratford community to come together and stand up against bullying. Mr. Hartigan, Mrs. Kaufman, and I presented at a virtual assembly. We talked about the 4 Pillars of Good Character and how they relate to Unity Day. We also read "Odd Bird" by Derek Desierto. Students then completed a worksheet that highlighted their unique qualities.
In mid-November, I will start supporting 2nd and 3rd grade classes by providing social-emotional lessons while highlighting Stratford’s 4 Pillars; Responsibility, Citizenship, Respect and Perseverance. I look forward to working with our 2nd and 3rd graders next month!
Coming Soon... Beautiful Me (Elementary School Program)
What is Beautiful Me? It’s an educational self-esteem program for females of all ages! The program is designed to educate females by promoting appreciation for their genuine qualities, accurate self-awareness, and the satisfaction of helping others.
The program will be held during three lunch/recess sessions on an individual class basis. There will be no mixing of classes due to COVID restrictions. An invitation will be sent to parents when your child's class is scheduled to participate.
What's Happening in the Primaries with SEL
We continued this discussion with our Unity Day event, which included a reading of the book "Ricky the Rock that Couldn't Roll" and the creation of Kindness Rocks, which remain in our courtyards to remind us of the importance of being kind and inclusive always.
Director's Corner
Dear Garden City Community,
Over the past two months, our mental health team in Garden City has been present in our classrooms and buildings providing general support and proactive strategies to assist our students in areas related to social and emotional well-being. Our social workers have provided lessons targeting coping skills and conflict resolution.
As we enter into November, they will provide an opportunity for or 4th grade female students to participate in the “beautiful me” program. It is so important for us to explicitly teach these skills and to provide our students with tools they may need. While Garden City seeks to provide a strong academic experience for our students, we cannot overlook the importance of building a strong foundation through mental health and wellness.
We look forward to continuing to establish a partnership with our families as we navigate these unsure times. To assist us in building upon our communication with our school community, the District has created an area within our website dedicated to student well-being resources.
As always, thank you for your support and for entrusting us with your children. Wishing you a happy and healthy Thanksgiving!
Fondly,
Janine Villez
Director or Pupil Personnel Services
Northwell News and Information for Families
District News and Announcements
Tracy Martinez
Email: catalanotti-martinezt@gcufsd.net
Phone: (516) 478-3347
Kristyn DeMartinis
Email: demartinisk@gcufsd.net
Phone: 516-478-1500
Twitter: @Ms_DeMartinis