Save The Date!

• Linked HTeX 25-26 Calendar

• Dec. 15-19: Spirit Week (detailed schedule)

• Wed, Dec. 17th: Full Day Dismissal at 2:45 pm

• Thurs, Dec. 18th: Family Night 4:30pm-5:15pm

• Fri, Dec. 19th: Winter Celebration 8:45 am Playground & Half Day Dismissal at 12:45pm 

• Dec. 22nd - Jan. 5th: Winter Break, No School

• Tues, Jan. 6th: Students Return to School at 8:15am

Hello Explorer community,

As we move through this season of giving, I want to pause and recognize something that often goes unseen but has an enormous impact on our school. The daily efforts our families make to support their students in getting to school, on time, ready to learn.

I have shared many times that attendance is vital to the success of our students and our community. I am happy to say that we continue to see steady improvement in attendance each year, and the impact is clear. Our students are more connected, more confident, and more successful because they are here consistently.

Recently, I reached out to families whose students have maintained perfect attendance this year. I asked what has helped make that possible, and I wanted to share some of the themes that came through in their responses. These reflections highlight the power of community, routine, and care.

A strong sense of belonging matters. Families shared that when students feel welcomed, known, and cared for by adults, they want to come to school. Feeling greeted in the morning, having trusting relationships with teachers, and knowing that adults truly see them makes a difference. When students love their school, attendance follows.

Consistent routines support success. Many families emphasized predictable bedtime and morning routines. Going to bed at the same time, waking up with enough time to move calmly through the morning, and keeping evenings and mornings low stress were common practices. Consistency helps children feel safe and prepared.

Sleep is essential. Families noted that prioritizing enough sleep each night makes mornings smoother and helps students regulate their emotions and energy at school. Adequate rest supports both attendance and learning.

Preparation reduces stress. Laying out clothes, packing backpacks, and preparing lunches the night before were mentioned often. These small steps help avoid rushed mornings and allow students to arrive at school calm and ready.

Parent self regulation matters too. Several families shared that staying calm during the morning routine is just as important as the routine itself. Sending children to school in a peaceful state of mind sets them up for a better day.

Healthy habits help keep students in school. Families mentioned balanced nutrition, limiting sugary drinks, staying up to date on vaccinations, and being proactive about wellness as part of supporting regular attendance.

Finally, families shared that knowing their child and tailoring routines to their needs is key. What works for one child may not work for another. Adjusting routines to support individual strengths and challenges helps mornings run more smoothly.

One family also shared a helpful resource related to morning routines that may be useful to others. You can view it here:
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ui=2&ik=c70f8071d8&attid=0.1&permmsgid=msg-f:1851258911402632842&th=19b0fe2be96e268a&view=att&disp=inline&realattid=f_mj23wf6y0&zw

We are deeply grateful for the time, care, and intention our families put into supporting their students. These daily acts of giving build a stronger, safer, and more connected community for everyone.

Thank you for your partnership, your consistency, and your commitment to our students. It truly shows. Please enjoy your Winter Break, and thank you for all that you do.

With appreciation,

Mr. Brian

Hello Explorer Families,

As we head into break, I want to share a few ways adults can support students during this time so they return feeling safe, connected, and ready to learn.

Breaks are a wonderful opportunity to rest and reconnect, but children still benefit greatly from routines and predictability. Keeping a consistent sleep schedule, regular meal times, and a simple daily rhythm helps students feel regulated and secure. Even small routines like a morning walk, quiet reading time, or a nightly wind-down can make a big difference. When routines fall away completely, returning to school can feel harder for kids.

Spending time together does not need to be expensive to be meaningful. San Diego offers many low-cost or free options that support movement, curiosity, and connection.

Some ideas families have shared include:
• Visiting local beaches for walks, tide pooling, or shell collecting
• Exploring Balboa Park gardens, trails, and outdoor spaces
• Riding bikes or scooters along Mission Bay or neighborhood paths
• Going to the public library for books, story times, or quiet reading
• Visiting local playgrounds and parks for free play
• Taking a hike at places like Tecolote Canyon, Cowles Mountain, or Liberty Station trails
• Having family game nights, movie nights, or cooking together at home

These simple experiences help children release energy, practice social skills, and feel grounded.

Please also remember that support is available if you need it over the break. If your family is experiencing challenges related to food, housing, mental health, or safety, you are not alone.

Helpful resources include:
• 211 San Diego for food assistance, housing support, and community resources
• San Diego County Behavioral Health Access Line at 888-724-7240 for mental health support
• Local libraries and community centers for free programs and safe spaces
• If there is an emergency, please call 911

If you are unsure where to start or need help connecting to resources, please reach out to our school team. We are here to support you and your child.

Thank you for all that you do each day to care for your students. Your consistency, presence, and partnership matter more than you know. We look forward to welcoming everyone back after the break.

With care and appreciation,

Your Explorer Family

Establish a Strong Home-School Connection

• Attend school events like Exhibition and Student-Led Conferences (SLCs): These events provide crucial information about your child's learning and school community.

• Communicate Regularly with Teachers: Maintain open communication with your child's teacher. Share any concerns or questions promptly.

Foster Positive Behaviors at Home

• Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine: Ensure your child gets enough sleep for optimal focus and learning.

• Encourage Healthy Habits: Promote a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient water intake for overall well-being.

Build Your Child's Confidence and Skills

• Read Together Regularly: Share the joy of reading and build literacy skills.Plan a trip to your local library!

• Teach Organizational Skills: Help your child develop time management and planning abilities. Teach your child about strategies that have been supportive for you.

• Encourage Problem-Solving: Foster critical thinking and independence. You can help develop these skills by providing time for your child attempt to solve problems independently before completing a task for them.

Get Involved in the School Community

• Volunteer at School: Contribute your time and skills to support school activities.

• Stay Informed: Look out for communication via emails from your child’s teachers, family newsletters, and Konstella.

By following these tips, you can create a supportive environment that helps your child thrive in school.

To learn more about supporting your student’s learning and development, please visit these additional resources:

https://www.naeyc.org/our-work/families/browse-by-topic

https://childdevelopmentinfo.com/category/parenting/

https://www.understood.org/

HTH Admissions: Spread The Word!

Jog A Thon- Rescheduled after winter break due to weather conditions

Chaperoning Field Trips - Please...

We deeply appreciate your generosity in volunteering as a chaperone on our field experiences! Please follow the following guidelines:

• Make sure you are cleared to drive on PowerSchool

• Abide by High Tech Chaperone guidelines. This is an academic trip, but also have fun!

• Please make sure student medication and/or epipens are brought while on the trip and are kept with the student's parent or staff member in their group

• No siblings or additional adults allowed without prior approval

• Chaperones are not to buy students extra items (souvenirs etc.)

  • We ask this because if some groups get one experience but not all groups, it’s not equitable

• DO NOT TAKE AND POST PHOTOS OF STUDENTS ON SOCIAL MEDIA

  • You may send your student’s teacher or other classroom teacher photos

• DO NOT LEAVE FIELD TRIP PROPERTY WITHOUT CHECKING IN WITH HTEX STAFF

Quiet Recess Volunteers

Calling All High Tech Families!!

I hope this message finds you well. As we strive to create a fun and engaging school environment for our students, we are excited to extend an invitation for our students adults to volunteer during recess.

Recess is a crucial time for our students to unwind, socialize, and engage in playful activities. Your presence during this time can make a significant difference in enhancing their overall school experience. Some of our student population has messaged to us that being outside for recess can be overstimulating. We would like to offer our parent volunteers a chance to come in and support those students. Our goal is to keep all students engaged in an activity that meets their individual needs. 

If you're interested in volunteering, please sign up for a specific date and time using this form. We appreciate any time you can contribute.. Our kids love consistency, and we would appreciate a recurring schedule. However, if you have a limited schedule and want to help, we can discuss those opportunities on a case-by-case basis. 

Thank you for considering this opportunity to be involved in your child's school life. Your support is instrumental in creating a positive and enjoyable school environment.

Thanks kindly,

Mr. Brian

Copyright © High Tech Elementary Explorer. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
2230 Truxton Rd San Diego CA 92106

Questions?
Email us at htexpacommunications@gmail.com