GROWING THROUGH CHANGE

 Septebmer 7, 2026

Growing in Courage

Dear Stingray Families,

I hope you enjoyed the long weekend and had an opportunity to rest and spend time together. After completing our first full week of school, I continue to be excited by the energy on campus and the ways our students are settling into their classes, building relationships, and becoming part of our Stingray community.

This week, our schoolwide focus is Growth in Courage. Courage can look different for every student. It may mean speaking up in class, asking for help, trying something unfamiliar, including someone who feels left out, or continuing to work when something becomes difficult. We want our students to understand that courage is not the absence of fear. It is choosing to move forward even when something feels uncomfortable.

Continuing the Conversation at Home

Were you able to ask your student any of the questions from last week’s newsletter about Growth in Kindness? High school students may not always offer a long answer right away, but continuing to ask thoughtful questions lets them know that we care about their experiences and the people they are becoming.

As we focus on courage this week, you might ask:

• Did you invite someone new to sit with you at lunch this week? If not, is there someone you could invite?

• When did you have to show courage this week?

• Was there a moment when you wanted to speak up but did not?

• What is something new or challenging that you would like to try?

• How can I support you when something feels difficult?

Back-to-School Night

We look forward to welcoming families to campus for Back-to-School Night on Thursday, September 10. The evening will begin with zero period at 5:00 p.m., followed by first period at 5:17 p.m. Several tables will be located in the Circle, where staff members will distribute student schedules organized by last name.

We will also conduct a fire drill during the school day on September 10. Practicing our emergency procedures helps ensure that students and staff know how to respond safely and calmly.

Fall Sports Pep Rally

Our first pep rally of the year will take place on Friday, September 11. We are excited to recognize our fall athletes, celebrate the beginning of their seasons, and come together as a Stingray community. Students are encouraged to participate, show their school spirit, and help make the rally a positive experience for everyone. View the Bell Schedule

STAR Assessments

Students will complete their fall STAR assessments on Tuesday, September 15 through Renaissance. This first assessment provides teachers with baseline information about student learning. Teachers will review the results and use the data to help guide instruction and identify areas in which students may need additional support or opportunities for growth.

While standardized assessments are only one measure of a student’s abilities and potential, full participation helps us better understand the needs of our students and showcase the success of our schoolwide instructional program. Please encourage your student to arrive prepared, take their time, and give their best effort.

College Night

Our College Night will take place on Thursday, September 17, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. This event is primarily designed for juniors, seniors, and their families and will provide helpful information about the college application process. We strongly encourage families of college-bound students to attend.

Club Rush

Students interested in joining or starting a club are invited to participate in Club Rush on Friday, September 18, located in the Circle. Clubs are a great way for students to meet others with similar interests, become more connected to campus, and develop leadership skills. View the Bell Schedule

Senior Parking Spot Painting

Seniors participating in our senior parking spot tradition will have opportunities to paint their spaces on Monday, September 14, and Monday, September 21. Students should make sure that their designs have been approved and that they are prepared with the necessary painting supplies.

Important Dates: Two-Week Look Ahead

• Monday, September 7: Labor Day

• Thursday, September 10: Fire Drill and Back-to-School Night

• Friday, September 11: Fall Sports Pep Rally

• Monday, September 14: First Mentorship Meeting and Senior Parking Spot Painting

• Tuesday, September 15: STAR Assessments

• Thursday, September 17, 5:00 to 7:30 p.m.: College Night

• Friday, September 18: Club Rush, located in the Circle

• Monday, September 21: Senior Parking Spot Painting

Thank you for continuing to partner with us and for encouraging your students to grow in kindness, courage, and confidence. We are grateful to have your family as part of our Stingray community.

Go Stingrays!

Grant Stephenson
Principal
Coastal Academy High School

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