OG Nation!

The upcoming school year is right around the corner, and we are excited to begin another fantastic year of building powerful, confident learners through GRIT, Risk-Taking, and Ownership!

The back-to-school season is an exciting time, not only for our students, but also for our staff. We cannot wait to welcome our students back into our buildings and continue the important work of helping each child learn, grow, and thrive.

We also know that transitioning from summer mode back into school mode can take some time. Our goal is to help make that transition as smooth and positive as possible for every student and family. Below are a few simple tips to help your child start the school year with confidence and maintain a positive attitude throughout the year.

Tip 1: Show excitement to get excitement.

The mind is a powerful tool when it comes to taking advantage of educational opportunities. Students often model their attitudes after the important adults in their lives, and that means all of you!

The more positive, upbeat, and encouraging you are about the school year, the more likely your child is to feel optimistic about having a great start and a strong year.

Tip 2: Begin your school routine at least one week before school starts.

A consistent routine can make a huge difference. Begin working back into regular bedtimes, wake-up times, morning routines, and evening routines before the first day of school.

Helping your child get the necessary sleep in advance can also help them regulate the emotions that often come with back-to-school time. A rested student is more prepared to learn, engage, and handle the excitement and challenges of a new year.

Tip 3: Discuss goals for the year with your child.

Take some time to sit down as a family and talk about the upcoming school year.

• What went well last year?

• What were some challenges?

• What is one area where your child would like to grow?

• What plan can you put in place to help avoid stumbling blocks this year?

These conversations help students take ownership of their learning and remind them that they are not walking into the school year alone. They have a team behind them.

Tip 4: Speak positively about school and the people who serve your child.

Students listen closely to how adults talk about school, teachers, coaches, classmates, and challenges. When we speak positively about school, we help our children see school as a place where they are supported, cared for, and capable of success.

There will always be challenges in a school year, but when students know that home and school are working together, they are much more likely to approach those challenges with confidence and grit!

Tip 5: Help your child prepare the night before.

A smooth morning often starts the night before. Encourage your child to organize their school materials to have ready for the next day, and talk through the plan for the next day.

These small habits can reduce stress in the morning and help students arrive at school feeling calm, prepared, and ready to learn.

Tip 6: Celebrate effort, not just outcomes.

At Ogallala Public Schools, we want students to understand that growth happens through effort, persistence, and a willingness to try hard things. Celebrate the test they studied for, the question they asked, the kindness they showed, the mistake they learned from, and the courage it took to try something new.

Confidence is built when students know they are valued not only for what they achieve, but also for how they grow.

Tip 7: Stay connected

One of the best ways to support your child is to stay connected with their school. Read school communication, reach out when you have questions, attend events when you are able, and encourage your child to talk with you about their school experience.

We are at our best when families and schools work together.

As we begin this new school year, we are grateful for the opportunity to serve your children and partner with your family. We believe deeply in the students of OG Nation, and we are excited for another year of learning, growing, leading, and building confidence together.

Thank you for trusting us with your children. We are looking forward to a fantastic school year!

GO BIG O!

Dr. Gene Russel

Superintendent