Last week we completed the bulk of our benchmark exams. We are so proud of how hard our Cougars worked and how seriously they took their exams. Thank you for sending them well rested!
Normally this week is a week filled with family events on campus. Unfortunately, with COVID cases on the rise, we have had to cancel any event that couldn't be moved outdoors in order to ensure the health and well-being of our community. All our winter performances will be recorded and the links posted on Facebook, ParentLink, and ClassDojo for you to enjoy. We will miss all our parents on campus for these events before the holidays, but your and our Cougars safety is our first priority. We hope to see everyone back on campus once COVID levels drop. Masks are encouraged this week to help prevent the spread of COVID, RSV, and Influenza A, all of which are high in Pima County at present.
As we finish our final week of the semester, the Carrillo staff and faculty wish you all a very happy holidays and a joyous New Year!
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
Kind Campus Update - Mindful Listening
Careful listening is difficult, but we can develop mindful listening skills with simple practice. Mindful listening asks us to be in the present moment and focus on what the other person is saying rather than being quick to offer our own take or letting our minds wander to something else. Dr. Elizabeth Dorrance Hall recommends “showing interest and support through maintaining eye contact, nodding, smiling, and encouraging [the speaker] to express their thoughts” as well as “giv[ing] others the space to share without interrupting, advising, or correcting them.1” One study found that “high-quality (i.e., empathic, attentive, and nonjudgmental) listening reduces speakers’ social anxiety and leads them to delve deeper into greater self-awareness,2” leading to more open-minded conversations. Focusing on how we listen contributes to healthier and more constructive communication and is a valuable part of our kindness practice.
Have students pair up with the goal of mindful listening. Each student talks for two minutes about their day or an important experience while their partner listens without interruption or judgment. At the end of the two minutes, the listening partner describes what they heard. Switch roles and repeat. Have students reflect on the importance of listening respectfully to their friends, family, and peers.
References: 1. Hall, E.D. (2017, Mar 31). Mindful Listening: Using empathy to listen instead of offering advice. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/conscious-communication/201703/mindful-listening. 2. Itzchakov, G. (2018). “The Listener Sets the Tone: High-Quality Listening Increases Attitude Clarity and Behavior-Intention Consequences.” Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, Vol 44, Issue 5. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0146167217747874.
Presidio Museum Walking Tour - Turquoise Trail Walking Tour
Join one of our community partners, the Presidio San Agustin del Tucson on...
Tuesday, December 27, 10 am-12:30 pm
Saturday, January 14, 10 am-12:30 pm
Saturday, February 11, 10 am-12:30 pm
COST: $25 for non-members, $20 for members
Led by tour guide Mauro Trejo, this tour takes attendees on a walk along the 2.5-mile Turquoise Trail through Downtown Tucson to see historic buildings and hear stories that make Tucson’s history special.
Pre-registration is required. Click here to register.
Upcoming Events
- Friday, December 23 - No Classes for Teacher Grading Day and Winter Break Begins
- Monday, January 9 - Third Quarter Begins
- Tuesday, January 10 - GATE Testing for Grades 1, 2, & 3
Stay in Touch!
Stay current on our events by visiting our Facebook Page as well as school website. If you have any questions, comments, suggestions, or concerns please reach out. It is our mission to provide all students with a first rate education in a kind and respectful environment.