Tiger Tales 1/4/26

Posted Date: 01/04/26 (01:00 PM)

January 4, 2025

Welcome Back and Happy New Year!

We hope your family had time to rest, reconnect, and enjoy the break. As we return to school, we’re excited to jump back into learning, routines, and the joyful moments that happen every day at school. Thank you for your continued partnership—we’re looking forward to a great start to the year together.

Tiger Spotlight

This week’s spotlight shines on two incredible members of our Tiger Team.

This week we’re shining the spotlight on Betsy Willard, 3rd grade teacher

This week we’re shining the spotlight on Ms. Willard, who you might know as one of our 3rd grade teachers but did you know...

Her go-to comfort food is ice cream
The first concert she ever attended? Garth Brooks
When she's not teaching, you might find her enjoying a cup of coffee and some chocolate listening to Journey
Her favorite place in Vermont (or beyond): her camp in Coventry
A hidden talent you might not guess: Humor...she cold be a stand-up comedian
One more fun fact: Her favorite artist is Vermont native, Mary Azarian. She even has one-of-a-kind signed pieces!!!

We're excited for the positive energy and care she brings to her classroom everyday!

This week we’re celebrating Nerissa Coolbeth, 2nd grade teacher

This week we’re shining the spotlight on Ms. Coolbeth who you might know as one of our third grade teachers but did you know…

If she could only eat one food forever: Poutine
She's currently reading: The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
When she's not teaching, you probably will find her pouring acrylic
Her favorite place in Vermont (or beyond): Her family camp in Woodbury!
A song she'll never skip: Any song by Dylan Gossett
And a fun fact about her? She loves playing softball and rugby

We’re lucky to have her supporting our Tigers with this essential role!

ROAR Reminder

New Year, Same ROAR!

Returning from break can take a little time, and that’s okay. As we ease back into routines, our staff is supporting students socially, emotionally, and academically; helping everyone settle back into the school rhythm with care and encouragement.

The new year also brings a renewed focus on our ROAR expectations, which guide how we learn, play, and grow together each day:

Respect – treating ourselves, others, and our school with kindness

On Task – doing our best and staying engaged in learning

Always Safe – making choices that keep everyone safe and supported

Responsible – taking ownership of our actions and belongings

January is a perfect time for a fresh start, and we’re proud of the many ways our students show their ROAR every day. Thank you for reinforcing these expectations at home. We appreciate your partnership as we begin the new year together.

Tigertastic Tips

January is a reset month. Small routines, positive reminders of ROAR, and patience go a long way as kids ease back into school.

Try these simple ideas at home:

Anchor the day with one routine: Choose one predictable habit (a set bedtime, morning checklist, or after-school wind-down) and stick with it consistently before adding more.
Name the ROAR you see: Use quick call-outs like, “That was respectful,” or “I noticed you stayed on task,” to reinforce positive behaviors in real time.
Prep together: Packing backpacks or choosing clothes the night before gives kids ownership and reduces morning stress.
Use visual reminders: A sticky note, fridge sign, or simple checklist can help kids remember expectations without repeated verbal reminders.

Some days will feel easier than others. A calm reset and encouragement go a long way as routines rebuild.

Mark Your Calendars

1/16 Early Release @ 11:30, no preschool
1/19 No School: MLK Jr Day