Welcoming October: Supporting our students as the seasons change

Reflecting on the First Two Months of School
As we close out September and move into October, I want to take a moment to recognize the hard work, dedication, and resilience of our community. These first two months of the school year have been marked by positive energy, new challenges, fresh beginnings, and new opportunities to share a commitment to academic excellence. Congratulations Calaveras Hills and the new Milpitas High School extension campus for blazing more trails for our learners. And lest not forget the Milpitas Middle College High School and Milpitas Adult Education for opening new doors for all to learn as well. 

Preparing for October: Adjusting to the Changing Season
As we head into October, the days are getting shorter, the weather is cooling down, and the energy of a new school year is settling into a steady rhythm. This shift in seasons can impact us all, and it’s important to recognize how these changes may affect us all.

For our students, the adjustment to darker evenings and cooler temperatures can sometimes lead to increased fatigue, a drop in motivation or illness. As the novelty of the school year fades, some may struggle to stay engaged or feel overwhelmed. This is where our collective efforts—parents, educators, and community members—become even more crucial.

Encouraging Wellness & Balance
Here are a few ways we can continue to support each other as we transition into this new season:

• Maintain Healthy Routines: Stick to consistent sleep schedules, even as nights grow longer. Good rest is essential for focus and overall well-being.
• Stay Active: Cooler weather shouldn’t mean staying indoors all the time. Stay active, whether through outdoor play, sports, or even short family walks after dinner. Physical activity boosts both mood and mental focus.
• Open Communication: The changing season can sometimes bring shifts in mood or energy levels. It’s important for parents, teachers, and staff to keep open lines of communication with students, checking in on how everyone is feeling mentally, physically and emotionally.

Upcoming Opportunities for Engagement
October also brings opportunities for deeper engagement with our school community. Whether it’s through parent-teacher conferences, school board meetings, or community events, our involvement plays a critical role in shaping the success of our district. I encourage everyone to stay connected and continue participating in the important discussions that influence our students' learning environments.

Looking Ahead: A Season of Growth and Progress
Finally, I want to remind everyone to be mindful of safety as daylight decreases. Health is wealth!

In community,
Chris Norwood,
MUSD Senior Board Member
2020 CSBA State Board Member of the Year

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