September SEL Newsletter

Posted Date: 9/30/25 (4:00 PM)

September Newsletter

Monthly SEL news and updates from SIS

Theme of the Month: Respect

Dear SIS Families, Students, and Staff,

As we wrap up a wonderful first month of the school year, we are excited to share some of the powerful work our community has done around our September SEL theme: Respect.

Settling In & Building Routines

Throughout the month, students settled into classroom routines and began building strong relationships with their peers and teachers. From day one, our staff worked diligently to create welcoming classroom environments where respect was modeled, taught, and celebrated.

Talking Circles: Building Community

A major highlight this month was introducing Talking Circles to our students. These circles took place during our Friday extra help periods, where many staff members opened their doors to facilitate meaningful conversations.

The purpose of the Talking Circle is simple yet powerful: to build community and promote open, respectful dialogue.

Hispanic Heritage Month Assembly – A Celebration of Culture & Respect

On September 19, we held our Hispanic Heritage Month assembly, where the theme of respect took center stage. Together, we explored the importance of respecting and honoring different cultures and traditions.

Our Multicultural Club and dedicated staff volunteers led a sample school-wide Talking Circle focused around the theme of traditions and culture.

In a moment of unity, every student contributed a leaf to our SIS Culture Tree, each one representing their culture and background. During the assembly, students held up their leaves, creating a powerful visual representation of the diversity and strength within our community.

Student Shout-Outs: Living the Value of Respect

Teachers and staff were encouraged to nominate students who consistently demonstrated respect throughout the month. These students stood out for their kind words, thoughtful actions, and inclusive attitudes.

Alisson Arteaga Perez

Alisson is always thoughtful and considerate. She goes out of her way to show respect to every adult in the school. From the security guards, to teachers and office staff, she treats everyone with fairness and appreciation. Her positive attitude makes our school a better place for all.

Steven Duenas

Steven demonstrates respect by using his manners when he enters class, and always listening to teacher instructions. Steven also shows respect and takes pride in his work, turning it on time and always trying his best.

Cassia Lis

Cassia is in Algebra this year and has shown 100% effort in everything she does. When she is confused, she respectfully asks the teacher for help. She listens when the teacher explains a problem to her and waits until the teacher is finished to ask further questions. She always shows respect to both her peers and teachers.

Evaliz Perez Morales

Evaliz took our SEL message very seriously. She demonstrated an understanding of the theme by offering an example of how we can all show respect to each other. Evaliz consistently demonstrated respect to staff, peers, and her self through her choices.

Evan Duke

Evan stands out for the respectful way he interacts with everyone around him. He is always listening carefully and speaking kindly. His consistent respect toward all staff creates a sense of trust and shows true maturity.

Tallula Smith

Tallula demonstrates the trait of the month by following directions in class, completing homework and participating. She is also a great friend and is helpful to others. She shows respect by listening to the teachers and applying what she learns.

Zoe Saldana Espejo

Zoe consistently demonstrates respect through both words and actions. They greet staff members with a smile, listen attentively, and always follow directions the first time. Their thoughtful attitude sets a positive example for peers and helps build a welcoming school environment.

Ivan Bonilla

Ivan is known for his kind demeanor and polite interactions. He treats every adult in the building with courtesy and consideration. Whether it's using good manners or responding respectfully in class, their behavior reflects strong character. They show that respect is a daily choice, and one they make often.

Looking Ahead: October’s SEL Theme – Responsibility

As we move into October, we’ll begin exploring our next theme: Responsibility. We’re excited to see how students will grow as responsible individuals, both in and out of the classroom.

Thank you for your continued support in helping SIS foster a respectful, inclusive, and caring school environment.