Dear Timber Trail Elementary Families,

As we work towards promoting student wellness in all areas, we want to ensure that every student in Douglas County knows what steps to take when they encounter a peer in need of help.

Based on students’ developmental levels, teachers will explore this topic in the classroom with their students:

• Elementary school students will learn about how they can demonstrates “traits of a good friend.” 

• Middle school students will learn about how to help a friend in need by being introduced to a three step helping model: A.C.T. (Acknowledge, Care, Tell).

• High school Students will continue to be encouraged to utilize the skills of A.C.T.to assist a friend in need of help. Students will also be given a “Signs and Symptoms of Depression” handout, “Suicide Warning Signs” handout.

Also, as part of our systematic work to continue to develop healthy students, we will collect data on students’ confidence regarding attaining the help they need when they need it. The results from our students’ collective voice will continue to drive our work to support their overall health as we progress throughout our school year.

We encourage you to support our efforts by discussing this month’s topic of how to A.C.T. if a friend is hurting with your child. Remember that if your child shares thoughts or behaviors that concern you, you too can follow the A.C.T. model (acknowledge, care, tell). Check us out next month when we explore how and when to report when concerned about a friend.

Your child’s safety is of the utmost importance, and we at Timber Trail Elementary will do all we can to support every student’s well-being.  There are many resources available to you at your student’s school (mental health provider, teacher) and in the community. If your child has expressed thoughts of harming himself/herself and you need immediate assistance, please dial 911 or bring your child to the nearest emergency room. Please consider the resources offered on the  PREVENTION and SCHOOL CULTURE website and determine if they may be appropriate for your family.

In Partnership,

Michele Radke, Principal

Nicole Goering, Ed.S., NCSP- Licensed School Psychologist

NEW ELEMENTARY PROGRESS REPORT AIMS TO SUPPORT PERSONALIZED LEARNING

At Douglas County School District (DCSD), we know that every one of our students is unique with different interests, strengths, and goals. They learn in their own ways and at their own pace. For that reason we are committed to not only personalizing learning to meet their specific needs, but also to providing information needed so that families can support and encourage continued growth.That is why DCSD is working to rebuild the Elementary Progress Report (EPR).

Go here to learn more about the new EPR which is expected to roll out at in December, at the end of this semester.

RED APPLE RECYCLING CLOTHING DRIVE CHALLENGE ENDS OCTOBER 8th

Clean out your closets and help Timber Trail raise money!

Please bring the following items to help fill our Red Apple Recycling donation box which is located in the bus loop:

ANY type of clean clothing

- Shoes

- All other household textiles

- Toys & stuffed animals

- Belts, purses & backpacks

For every pound we collect, the school will earn money to help pay for sustainability and wellness programs throughout the year.  Last spring, TTE was the winning school in Douglas County for pounds of donations collected.  TTE received a check for $951.60!

For more detailed information about Red Apple Recycling and their very worthwhile mission and what may be donated, please visit www.redapplerecycling.com

PARENTING MATTERS

Please see attachment below for the Douglas County Parenting Coalition October Newsletter