Dear Colleagues and Community,

Novato Tree Lighting Event

As we formally begin the holiday season around the world, let us embrace the diverse traditions celebrated. The Lights of Chanukah began the season, Advent followed to honor the Lady of the Indigenous, Solstice of New Light, at the midnight hour we honor the Birth of the Child, followed by the candles of Kwanzaa, and finally the celebration of the beginning of the new year.

As we consider the entire world, the holiday season may be even more profound.  May we honor each other and the myriad of celebrations around the world during this time of year.

MSA Choral Group

Recovering from the pandemic this past year, has taught and continues to teach us many valuable lessons. What we see and hear on the news is that our December gifts may not arrive due to shipment delays. This may be a blessing in disguise, to take pause, and ask ourselves, “What really matters during this time of year, or throughout the year for that matter?”  How much “stuff” do we accumulate? How much do we really need?

We all slowed down just a year ago due to the pandemic restrictions, now it is time to reflect on what really matters in life!  How about giving of ourselves to those we love and others we may seek to know, understand, and love?

Santa at Novato Tree Lighting

Giving of ourselves can be simple throughout the year.

  • Offer a kind word of encouragement
  • Share a moment with someone who needs company
  • Volunteer at a local food bank or non-profit bringing joy to families
  • Listen to friends and family who seek resolution to a challenge
  • Most of all be present and in the moment for our children, families and loved ones

None of us knows how long we are on this journey of life, so live in the moment, dance with joy, sing to the stars, and share the festivities of the season with those you love.

Last week I included a ThoughtExchange to learn how you are and what is on your hearts and minds are we prepare to go on winter break.  I appreciate those who took the time out of their busy day to respond

Below are top thoughts or themes that emerged:

  • Mental health for students and staff
  • Happy for a well-deserved break and back at school full time to learn and be together
  • School funding

NUSD Booth at Novato Tree Lighting

We are all in agreement that we need to expand mental health services for our students and provide opportunities for these services for staff.  The good news is that one-time funding does cover the cost of providing mental health services and we continue to pursue filling the openings for these crucial positions second semester.

We are all so looking forward to a well-deserved break to spend time with family and friends and mostly to rejuvenate.  We all need some time off and we look forward to seeing you in January.

We continue to do our budget presentations at PTA meetings at each of our schools and welcome your thought and advice as we discuss school funding the NUSD budget.  We’ll schedule community forums once we know the governors’ budget early next year.  We appreciate all your suggestions, so please keep them coming as we navigate these challenging times, resolve the budget issues, and continue to provide quality programs for students.

I want to share the responses with you and below are a few ways to review them:

Wishing you a blessed holiday and thank you for thinking about giving of yourselves, your talents, and your compassion for others throughout the year.

Respectfully,

Jan La Torre-Derby, Ed.D.
Superintendent