We would like to wish you and your families a very happy fall season leading up to the holidays. Many of you will be busy and hopefully preparing for family and friends to visit once again. As this season progresses, it is important to keep in mind how the interruptions of holidays can impact our students. We would ask that you take an extra moment to help your child focus and stay on task with schoolwork while enjoying this time of year.

Some people believe that gratitude may be the single most effective way to increase happiness in life. When we think about, what is gratitude? Gratitude is expressing thanks for anything we have received. The word gratitude comes from the Latin words: Gratia, meaning favor, charm, and thanks, and Gratus, meaning pleasing and grateful.

The Power of Gratitude is undeniable. People who take the time to notice and appreciate the good things that come their way through grace, or luck, or the goodness of others are happier and more peaceful. Research is consistent with the thought that people who demonstrate high levels of gratitude do better on cognitive tests and tests of problem solving skills. They practice healthier habits, have better relationships, are more optimistic and live longer. Gratitude is one powerful emotion. How do we cultivate gratitude in ourselves and our children? If you are worried that practicing gratitude must come with a high price, do not worry. Developing gratitude is surprisingly easy.

Here are 4 easy methods: 1. Keep a gratitude journal. 2. Write a letter of appreciation. 3. Make a gratitude list. 4. Take a gratitude walk. This method works a little like a list in that you have a set time period of the walk to focus on deepening your gratitude. The movement of a walk can help the brain and heart to work better. Each day the transition from work & school to home can be a good transition time to, for example, take a deep breath, look up to the sky, and commit to thinking of something in your life deserving of gratitude. Whatever method you choose to incorporate, these are quick and easy ways to develop gratitude. Taking the time to help develop an attitude of gratitude can help us all enjoy a happier life.

So, in closing please know here at Asa we are thankful and grateful for our amazing students, talented staff, and supportive families. We hope you have a November full of thanks and gratitude!

As always, we are here if you need us.

Sincerely,

Ms. Wyman and Ms. West

*October was a busy month. Please enjoy some photos of a few of our guests here at Asa. UMaine Football team members came to read to our students. OPD also spent some time reading to our Pre-Kindergarten students last week. Additionally, we had a visit from UMaine International Students visiting grades 3, 4, & 5. We are lucky to have such an engaged community at large.