From: Allison Deno <andeno@seattleschools.org>
Date: Fri, Oct 2, 2020 at 9:02 AM
Subject: Principal Newsletter – October 2, 2020
Thank you for another great week of partnership in supporting students at Lawton. Teachers and staff at Lawton continue to take opportunities to learn and grow so that we can provide high quality learning experiences for all students.
How we interact and encourage students affects their attitudes toward learning. A positive/growth mindset is the difference between a student giving up because they’re “not good at math” or engaging in a productive struggle that yields growth.
A growth mindset allows students to value what they’re doing regardless of the outcome. Students with a growth mindset recognize that they are tackling hard problems, charting new courses, and working on important skills, even when they aren’t getting the results or mastery they want yet.
YET is a really important word for fostering a growth mindset. Encouraging struggling students to add “yet” the phrases they are saying makes a big difference.
I can’t do this … yet
I don’t know … yet
It doesn’t make sense … yet
I don’t get it … yet
I’m not good at this … yet
When we communicate our beliefs that students can and will grow and succeed, we are helping students construct a growth mindset that can be called upon in any situation. We invite you to join us in adding “yet” to your conversations with your students.
Packet Distribution Today for All Grades
There are packets outside the school for all students today from 8am to 3pm. This round of packets includes worksheets, books, and other materials from your teacher as well as two special “tangibles” that we are able to supply because of the financial support of our PTA:
- Stylus. We heard your feedback on the somewhat clunky nature of the text feature in Seesaw and have included a stylus for every student to help make assignments easier.
- Musical Instruments. Mrs. Cooper included a musical instrument in each student’s packet (they vary by grade). These instruments will be used in your music classes in the coming weeks. Please take good care of them while they are on loan to you.
Dolphin Dreams Direct Drive Starts Now
The Dolphin Dreams Direct Drive is underway. Lawton PTA funds support our counselor position, student technology licenses, books for our library collection, teacher-requested classroom supplies, and so much more!
This fundraising campaign celebrates and rewards participation. All classrooms that reach 100% participation will get a prize but the first class to reach 100% will receive a bonus prize of a popsicle delivery! A donation is not required to count as participating. To participate, click here.
This year, Lawton PTA has formed a partnership with Bailey Gatzert Elementary to help bridge the gap between in school and online learning for their diverse population of students. You can add a contribution to Bailey Gatzert on the direct drive website.
Preparing for Veterans Day Assembly – Submit Pictures by October 23
We are preparing for our Veterans Assembly on November 6th and need your help. Part of the assembly will include personal connections and gratitude for Veterans within our community. If you have a Veteran you would like to honor, please send a picture to Ms. Lewis at jrlewis@seattleschools.org. Please include your student’s name, Veteran’s name, and branch of military in which they served.
The picture you send can be: a photo of your student and the Veteran; a photo of your student holding a photo of the Veteran; a drawing your student did to honor the Veteran; or any other picture that celebrates this person and their connection to our community. Please submit photos and requested information by October 23rd.
Superintendent’s Reopening Plan Task Force – Applications Due October 7th
Seattle Public Schools is recruiting students, families, and community members for the Superintendent’s Reopening Plan Task Force for the 2020-21 school year. To learn more or apply by the October 7th deadline, click HERE.
Key Dates
October 2 – Packet and library book pickup for all grades (8am – 3pm)
October 9 – NO SCHOOL (In-Service Day for Teachers)
October 20 – “Parenting During a Pandemic” Parent Night with School Counselor at 6pm
It’s tie-dye spirit day. Join us!