OWNCS Elementary PYP Newsletter

Principal's Message

Dear Families,

As we move into February, our Pillar of Focus is Responsibility—a value that empowers students to recognize the impact of their choices. Responsibility means stepping up, taking ownership of our actions, and doing our part to support others and ourselves. It’s about recognizing the role we each play in our school, our homes, and our community, and acting with care, commitment, and accountability.

In classrooms, teachers are helping students see how responsibility builds trust and strengthens our community. Whether it’s completing assignments, helping a friend, or keeping a promise, students are learning how everyday actions reflect this important value. They are also exploring the importance of meeting expectations with integrity, following through on commitments, and learning from mistakes.

Responsibility also includes lending a hand when we see a need and working together to make our school a place where everyone thrives. Let’s work as a team this month to inspire students to be reliable, compassionate, and thoughtful in their choices—and to take pride in the difference their actions can make.

Thank you for being our partners in teaching this essential value. Together, let’s make February a month where responsibility shines brightly!

With Gratitude,

Ms. Pryor

School Initiative

Pillar of the Month - Responsibility

Teaching students to be responsible helps them develop essential life skills such as time management, accountability, and self-discipline. These qualities not only support their academic success but also prepare them to contribute meaningfully to their families, schools, and communities.
- I can show truth at home by:
  - - Completing chores and responsibilities without reminders.
    - Taking care of personal belongings and keeping their room tidy.
    - Following household rules and respecting family members' time and needs.
- I can show truth at school by:
  - - Completing assignments on time and asking for help when needed.
    - Listening attentively during lessons and participating actively.
    - Taking care of school supplies and respecting the classroom environment.
- I can show truth in my community by:
  - - Volunteering for local projects or helping neighbors when needed.
    - Being respectful and kind to others in public spaces.
    - Following community rules, like proper waste disposal and safe practices.

Learner Profile of the Month - Knowledgeable

Being knowledgeable means that students explore and understand many different subjects, gaining important facts and ideas that help them learn about the world. Knowledgeable students make connections between what they learn in school and real life, using their understanding to solve problems and think critically.
- I can be knowledgeable at home by:
  - - Read books, newspapers, or magazines to learn new information.
    - Watch educational shows or documentaries about science, history, or nature.
    - Ask family members about their experiences, traditions, or skills to learn from them
- I can be knowledgeable at school by:
  - - Participate in class discussions and ask thoughtful questions.
    - Research topics of interest in books or on the internet.
    - Work on projects and experiments to explore new ideas and understand concepts better.
- I can be knowledgeable in my community by:
  - - Visit museums, libraries, or science centers to discover new knowledge.
    - Talk to local experts like firefighters, doctors, or business owners to learn about their jobs.
    - Volunteer or join community programs to learn about helping others and making a difference.

Literature Suggestions for Responsibility:

Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse

A story written by Kevin Henkes that focuses on the main character learning the importance of taking responsibility for her actions. It also shows that it is important to apologize after making a mistake.

The Paperboy

Through the story of a young paperboy who delivers newspapers early every morning, this book shows the value of hard work, consistency, and personal responsibility in completing daily tasks and following through with commitments. This story in written by Dav Pilkey.

What if Everybody Did That?

A story written by Ellen Javernick that emphasizes how people's actions affect others. This teaches kids the responsibility of making thoughtful decisions and understanding the consequences of their behavior on the world around them.

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