February 27, 2026 - Elementary School Principal Blog

Goodbye February, Hello March!

February went by in the blink of an eye. The next six-week run-up to Spring Break promises to be just as fast-paced as we look forward to many events, including our visiting author, Marc Tyler Nobleman (March 3–6), and Book Week (March 9–13).

🙌 Respecting the Rights of Others: Building Responsibility in Elementary School

In today’s Secondary School blog, Mr. Simpson discussed the importance of taking responsibility and “respecting the rights of others.” This is a core value we champion in the Elementary School every day, whether during Morning Meetings, in the lunchroom, or on the playground.

It is natural at the age of our students that there are going to be social challenges. This is the time we want it to occur so we can use it as a learning opportunity. Our goal is to help students understand that their words and actions have a real impact (positive or negative) on the community. Rather than relying on traditional punishment, we focus on:

Building Agency	We empower students to "own" their social choices. When conflict arises, we guide them through restorative conversations where they hear the impact of their actions and participate in the solution.
Natural Consequences	If a student misuses a tool (like technology) or a space (like the soccer pitch), the consequence is often a "reset" or a temporary loss of that privilege. This helps them see the direct link between their behavior and their environment.
Respectful Communication	We teach students that they don't have to be "best friends" with everyone, but they must be respectful to everyone. This distinction helps them navigate the complexities of growing up with maturity and empathy.

As our students assert their independence and their personalities evolve, they will inevitably face social friction. By using these moments as "teachable minutes," we are helping them build the resilience and self-control they will need as they move toward Middle and High School.

🔎 Parent Tip: The "Restorative" Check-In

When your child comes home with a story about a social conflict or a "natural consequence" they faced at school, it is tempting to jump straight to fixing it or lecturing. Instead, try using these Restorative Questions to help them build agency and empathy:

"What happened, and what were you thinking at the time?" (Focuses on the moment of the choice without judgment.)
"Who was affected by what happened, and in what way?" (Helps them see the 'social wake' of their actions.)
"What has been the hardest thing for you since this happened?" (Validates their feelings while keeping them accountable.)
"What do you think you need to do to make things right?" (This is where agency happens; they become the architect of the solution.)

Thank you for partnering with us in this journey.

All the best,

Mr. Geoff Heney
Elementary School Principal

🗓️ Save the Date: Meet the Author, Marc Tyler Nobleman
Friday, March 6, 2026 | 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM

We will host a special parent talk with Mr. Marc Tyler Nobleman. Please register here to help us plan for the session. We hope to see you there!

🥼 A message from the ISY Medical Clinic

Dear Parents,

As the weather warms up, we want to remind everyone of the importance of staying safe in the heat. Younger children are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses, so it is essential to take preventive measures. ISY will monitor the weather daily and implement necessary actions to ensure everyone's safety, such as adjusting outdoor activities, encouraging hydration, and providing shaded or indoor alternatives when needed. We appreciate your support in helping us keep students safe.

To help prevent heat illness, please ensure that your child:

Stays Hydrated: Please make sure your child brings a water bottle to school every day. Encourage your child to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially before, during, and after outdoor activities.
Wears Appropriate Clothing: Lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing is ideal.
Wears a hat: A wide-brimmed hat provides the best coverage by shielding the face, ears, and neck.
Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 or higher before coming to school.

Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our students safe and healthy. Should you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us.

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