Message from Ms. Meredith 12/5

Dear TIS Families,

We have so many exciting updates to share from this past week, along with a few highlights of what’s ahead!

Bake Sale Success! (8-Year-Olds)
Our amazing 8-year-old classes hosted a fantastic bake sale—and it was a huge success! Thanks to our community’s generosity, we raised enough funds to purchase two new bookshelves and a collection of books for the Vahid Haka School library.

Both our 7- and 8-year-old classes joined together in collecting books, with donations over 400 Albanian and beginning English books to support their fellow students.

A big thank you to everyone who baked, bought, donated, or helped spread the word. The students’ good deeds were even featured by the FutureSelf Group on Instagram and Facebook—go have a look!

Music & Violin Concerts Coming Soon
Our Music and Violin students are working hard as they prepare for their upcoming winter concerts. Their dedication and excitement shine through each rehearsal! 

Concern for Others Assembly & Community Giving
This week, our 7-year-old classes led a meaningful Concern for Others assembly. They shared thoughtful ideas on how we can show empathy, include others, and recognize when someone may need support. 

We also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the entire TIS community for your generosity in adopting Concern for Others boxes. These boxes will directly support families in need this winter, and your willingness to give ensures that more children will experience warmth, joy, and comfort during the holiday season. Your kindness truly reflects the spirit of our Success Orientations.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

How Can You Support Concern for Others at Home?

Building empathy starts with small, everyday actions. Here are a few simple ways families can model and practice Concern for Others at home:

• Check in with each other: Ask “How was your day?” and really listen. Show your child that feelings matter.

• Look for ways to help: Encourage children to notice when someone in the family needs help—carrying groceries, tidying up, comforting a sibling, or feeding a pet.

• Practice gratitude: Share one thing you are thankful for each day. Gratitude builds awareness of how others support us.

• Show kindness in the community: Hold the door for someone, greet your neighbors, or donate items no longer needed.

• Talk through challenges: When conflicts happen, pause and ask, “How did the other person feel?” This helps children develop perspective-taking and problem-solving skills.

These small practices create meaningful habits that strengthen empathy at school and at home.

 

---

Upcoming Dates

December 8 – No School
December 10 – Violin Concert, 5:30 PM (MPR)
December 11 – 9/10-year-old Music Concert, 2:30 PM (MPR)
December 11 – Middle School Music Concert, 3:30 PM (MPR)
December 15 – 5/6-year-old Music Program, 2:30 PM (MPR)
December 15 – 7/8-year-old Music Program, 3:30 PM (MPR)

Warmly,

Mrs. Meredith