School Counseling Newsletter

Quarter 3 Newsletter

Dear Illing Families,

As we move into the second half of the school year, our focus is on building resilience and managing stress. Quarter 3 can feel challenging as students balance academics, extracurriculars, and social responsibilities. Our goal is to equip them with strategies to stay motivated, manage their emotions, and continue growing into their best selves. 

📆 Important Dates:

• President's Day Weekend (No School) -- February 16-17, 2026

• Quarter 3 Progress Reports -- February 25, 2026

• Fundraiser for World Down Syndrome Day -- March 19, 2026

  • Rock Your Socks! Wear bold, brightly colored or mismatched socks and provide any donations to the Main Office. 

• Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day -- March 25, 2026

  • Wear GREEN to share support for National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day

• Parent-Teacher Conferences -- March 25th and April 1st, 2026 

  • Keep an eye out for emails from your student's teachers on sign-ups for conferences. These slots can go quickly! Conferences are typically offered both virtually and in-person. 

• Eid al-Fitr (Holiday, No School) -- March 20, 2026

• End of Quarter 3, Grades Closed -- March 31, 2026

✏️Quarter 3 Theme: Building Resilience & Managing Stress

What is Resilience?
Resilience is the ability to bounce back from challenges and setbacks. It helps students handle academic pressure, social situations, and everyday stress.

Tips For Students

• Stay Organized – Use a planner or digital tools to track assignments and deadlines.

• Manage Stress – Take deep breaths, stretch, or take a short walk when feeling overwhelmed.

• Embrace Challenges – Mistakes are part of learning! Encourage a growth mindset.

• Stay Connected – Talk to friends, family, or a trusted adult when feeling stressed.

• Prioritize Self-Care – Ensure adequate sleep, healthy eating, and time for relaxation.

How Families Can Help

• Encourage Open Conversations – Ask your student about their day and listen without judgment.

• Promote Healthy Routines – Help your child maintain a consistent sleep schedule and balanced diet.

• Model Resilience – Share how you handle stress and setbacks in your own life.

• Set Realistic Goals Together – Break down big goals into smaller, achievable steps.

🎓 Looking Towards The Future...

• 8th Grade Elective Choice Presentations
  We're excited to present the many elective options to our rising 8th grade students! 7th grade school counselors will deliver this information to all 7th grade students before April vacation so that they can pick their top choices for next year's electives. An email with more information on our 20+ 8th grade elective options will be going out to families prior to these presentations. Please speak with your student about which electives they would like to try next year!
  
  

• Transition to High School Lessons
  School counselors will be delivering crucial lessons to 8th graders about the transition to high school during Quarter 4. Students will learn about earning high school credits, GPA, SAT testing, graduation requirements, clubs/sports at MHS, and more! 

Additional Notes:

• Winter Coat Support
  The weather has been freezing, so please remember that our school counselors can help connect families with resources for free winter coats. If your family is in need, reach out to your student's school counselor - our goal is to ensure every child stays warm and comfortable this winter. 

•  Community Resources in Manchester
  We know that the colder months can bring extra challenges for some families. Here are a few local supports available right here in Manchester:

• Manchester Area Conference of Churces (CACC) Community Kitchen | Daily free lunches for those in need.

• MACC Food Pantry - 460 Main St, Manchester | 860-647-8003, offering groceries and meal support for local residents. 

•  Town of Manchester Human Services - assistance programs for housing, utilities, and other essential needs.

•  Manchester Public Library - Provides free access to computers, job support, and community events for all ages. 

Please also use this link to resources compiled by the district: Local supports including additional food pantries, services for seniors, mobile food pantries, resources for hygiene products, and diapers.

As always, please reach out with any questions about how to support your student -- socially, emotionally, or academically. 

Together, we're here to support our students and families in every season. 

💛  With gratitude, 

Your Illing School Counselors 

Ms. Sinsigalli, Mrs. Perez, Ms. Pacheco, and Ms. Grisko

7th Grade Counseling Team

8th Grade Counseling Team