Welcome to 2026! I hope you enjoyed a restful and memorable holiday season surrounded by loved ones. As we begin a new year, many of us set resolutions and goals aimed at improving our quality of life. A helpful approach is to focus on shorter, more manageable time frames—such as weekly or monthly goals—so that each accomplishment feels meaningful, and any setbacks feel less overwhelming. Small, consistent steps often lead to the greatest progress.

The school year is moving quickly. Students have completed FAST 2 and DIBELS assessments, and WIDA Access testing will begin on January 20th. Our Testing Coordinator, Mrs. Noonan has shared information on how to access your child’s scores. If you have any questions or concerns, I encourage you to reach out to your child’s teacher. I am also available to join conferences upon request to assist in any way that I can.

On January 15th from 4:30 PM-6:30 PM, we will host a Chick-Fil-A Sprit Night at the Maitland location to support Parent Engagement Activities. You can order through the Chick-Fil-A app, using Mobile Order Code: LAKES (all caps). I will be there for those of you who choose to come inside the restaurant. Please inform the employee taking your order "I'm with the Spirit Night." I hope to see you there.

On January 20 at 5:30 PM, the Children’s Literacy Initiative, in partnership with the New Worlds Reading Initiative, will host a Literacy Family Fun Night. This event will include learning strategies, reading activities, games, and a complimentary meal from Olive Garden for attendees. The program will last approximately one hour. Please register using the QR code provided at the end of this newsletter. 

Ebony Everett

Parent Engagement Liaison

The Children's Initiative, alongside New World's Reading Initiative, is hosting a Family Fun Night here at Lake Sybelia on Tuesday, January 20th starting at 5:30 PM. This will be a fun, interactive night of providing families with literacy tools to support your student in the reading environment. Come have a good time. The best part of the night is dinner will be provided, giving you one less thing to worry about.

Our food pantry is officially open. Families who are in need can complete a pantry request form by email or have your student deliver it to me. We are still accepting non-perishable donations for our families that can be dropped off at the front office. Be on the lookout for another innovative food drive.