April 23, 2026
from Julia Ross, Lower School learning specialist
It is hard to believe that the end of the year is quickly approaching! As we get closer to the final FastBridge assessment of the school year, which begins on May 11, we’re excited for students to have the opportunity to show how much they’ve grown over the course of the school year.
At school, homeroom teachers will be talking with students about how this assessment is a chance to show what they know, reflect on their growth, and put forth their best effort. We remind students to take their time, not to overthink, and to trust all the learning they’ve done this year.
Continuing this conversation at home can be incredibly helpful. As it gets closer, encouraging your student to simply try their best and feel confident in their progress can make a big difference in how they approach taking the test. It is also important, as always, to make sure they get a good night’s sleep and eat a healthy breakfast on testing days to help them feel focused and ready to try their best!
We are so proud of the growth our students have made and look forward to celebrating all they’ve learned. Please reach out to me, Julia Ross, Lower School learning specialist, with any questions!
from Dana Distad, Lower School counselor
As we reach the end of another school year, it’s hard not to pause and reflect just how much growth has taken place—not only academically, but socially and emotionally. Our students have spent the year learning how to name their feelings, navigate friendships, repair when things feel hard, and advocate for what they need. These are skills that don’t always show up on report cards, but they are the foundation for everything else.
We’ve seen students take brave steps—using their voices, showing empathy, trying again after setbacks, and learning that their feelings matter. Growth in this area isn’t always linear, but it is meaningful, and it is lasting.
As we move into a new season, both literally and figuratively, there is so much to carry forward. Encouraging children to continue checking in with themselves, trusting their inner voice, and practicing kindness—toward themselves and others—will help sustain the progress they’ve made. Change can bring excitement, uncertainty, and everything in between, but our students are leaving this year with tools to navigate it.
From James Ewer, Lower School director
Spring has a way of testing all of us. Bedtimes drift. Energy shifts. The weather gets nice, and suddenly everyone is ready for summer. But this stretch of the year still matters a great deal. A strong finish is often built on simple things: sleep, movement, and showing up every day. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends 9-11 hours of sleep for children ages 6-13, and the CDC shares that regular physical activity supports brain health, learning, and overall wellness. We also know attendance matters. Missing too much school can have a real impact on student success. As we move through these final weeks, now is a great time to hold tight to the routines that help children thrive.
Peace and love,
Mr. Ewer
Mark Your Calendars
- Monday, April 27: LS Kindergarten Parents Gathering, 1-3 PM, PCR
- Monday, April 27: Community Panther Pride Day, 3-6 PM, Lansing Sports Center
- Wednesday, April 29: LS CHAMP Assembly, 8:15-9 AM, Family Commons
- Wednesday, April 29: LS/MS Swim Club Members & Families End of Year Celebration, 3-4 PM, Family Commons
- Thursday, April 30: LS/MS Rising G5-9 Transition Meetings, 6-6:45 PM
- Tuesday, May 5: MPA PA National Teacher Appreciation Day, 8 AM-3 PM
- Wednesday, May 6: ISACS Parent Series – Conscious Parenting: Raising Resilient, Self-Aware, & Connected Children, 6:30-7:30 PM, Virtual, Register >
- Friday, May 8: LS PreK Art & Music Show, 9-10 AM
- Friday, May 8: Students & Screens Assembly, 2-3 PM, Nicholson Center
- Wednesday, May 13: LS CHAMP Assembly, 8:15-9 AM, Recital Hall
