Dear Quaker Ridge Families,

This week’s letter covers two very different - but equally important - topics:

• A joyful update on the energy and pride around our new mascot (spoiler: the howling has reached new heights); and
  
  

• A reflective note about children, texting, and group chats - a reminder that communication can be both spirited and unexpectedly complex.
  
  

First, the Coyotes...

The energy around our new mascot is infectious. Students have embraced our identity with such enthusiasm that we’re hearing howls in the hallways, on the playground, and - on more than one occasion - at dismissal. At this point, we’re considering whether the best howl might deserve its own annual assessment. Not that there will be one winner, of course - because we all have a winning howl in us. It’s been a joyful way to build spirit across grades, and we’re thrilled to see students leaning in with pride and creativity.

On a reflective note…

While our Coyotes are howling proudly in the schoolyard, we also want to take a moment to reflect on a very different kind of communication that happens outside of school: texting and group messaging among children.

First, let’s recognize something important - our students have shown real respect for the school’s device-free expectations. It’s heartening to see how seriously they take this, and it gives us hope that this generation may ultimately develop a healthier relationship with technology than many adults have today.

Still, a few recent incidents - limited in number but significant in impact - have reminded us how complicated digital communication can be for children. Group text threads, in particular, have led to some students feeling confused or hurt by what they or others have posted. As adults, we’ve all experienced how easily tone, meaning, or intent can be misread in a quick text message. If it happens to us, imagine how much harder it is for children still developing judgment, empathy, and impulse control.

These moments, though isolated, have left lasting impressions on the children involved, their families, and our staff. They’re also a reminder that across the country, digital communication among young people is becoming a growing concern. We’re not in crisis - but we’d like to stay that way. Early attention to these issues can help us avoid the kinds of challenges many schools are now facing.

As noted in the Parent Handbook, we strongly encourage families to monitor and limit children’s use of social media and messaging apps - only allowing access to tools you can actively guide and check. This includes apps like Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok, but also text threads and group chats. We know families vary in their approaches, and our role is not to tell you what to do, but to urge thoughtful consideration of what’s age-appropriate - and what might be best delayed.

The District and the PTA - through the Parent Teacher Council - have partnered to provide helpful resources to support families navigating this space. We’re happy to share these materials or point you toward useful tips if you think they’d be helpful.

As always, thank you for being engaged, curious, and committed to raising thoughtful communicators. Whether through a well-timed howl or a kind, clear message - our students are learning how to make their voices heard.

A quick reminder (not that anyone will have forgotten): Spring Break runs from Monday, April 14, through Friday, April 18. We’ll see everyone back on Monday, April 21.

Wishing you and your family a joyful and restful break!