This time of year can feel like the toughest stretch of the school year. Students and adults are tired, routines are harder to keep, and frustrations can build.

Hiking is one of my daughter Sophie's favorite things to do, so last summer, for her 17th birthday, my wife Lindsey and I decided to take her on a hike to Upper Palisades Lake. The first four-mile stretch to Lower Palisades went well, but the next three miles were a different story. The trail got steeper and more difficult, our legs were tired, and we all started letting our frustration show. About ninety minutes in, we were ready to quit. At one point, Sophie plopped down on the trail to rest. Once Lindsey and I caught up to her, she told us she was done and to go ahead without her. But with a little encouragement - and a few snacks - she got up and we kept going one step at a time. And, thank heavens, fifteen minutes later we reached the shore of the upper lake and were rewarded with one of the most beautiful views I’ve ever seen.

Late winter can feel a lot like that. It’s the season when frustration builds, the end still feels far away, and even our kids may feel like giving up. But with encouragement and a positive mindset, we can help them keep going. A quick word of encouragement at home, steady routines, and reaching out early when something feels off can make a big difference. Thank you for your patience, your communication, and your partnership. When school and home work together, students feel supported - and that support is essential to the success of our students.

High school students with an interest in civics, history, and public service are invited to participate in the Presidential 1776 Award, a new national civics scholarship competition created in honor of America’s upcoming 250th anniversary. From February through June 2026, students will compete in a multi-round challenge demonstrating their knowledge of the U.S. Constitution, the American founding, and the principles that shaped our nation. After local and regional rounds, top students will advance to a national final in Washington, D.C., where three national winners will earn scholarships totaling $250,000. This exciting opportunity aligns well with U.S. government and history coursework and offers students a chance to be recognized on a national stage. More details, including registration information, will be shared with interested students and families.

Idaho Falls Family YMCA Spring Sports: Registration is open January 12 to March 7 (late registration March 9 to March 14 with a $15 fee). The season runs March 30 to May 23, with youth options like soccer, basketball, volleyball, and flag football (plus adult leagues). Financial assistance is available, and volunteer coaches get 50% off one sports registration. Click here for more information.

Come Join Steve in a 7-Week course of Parenting the Love and Logic Way. Steve Dewey has been teaching parenting classes in the community for the past 27 years. He is well known for his ability to use humor and fun stories to make his parenting classes easy to understand so that participants are able to implement the interventions immediately and successfully. The parenting classes will be for parents of children of all ages. Please click this link for more information about the class.

Classes will be on Wednesday starting March 4th and will go every Wednesday in March and April for seven weeks except for the Wednesday during Spring Break (March 25).