Building Strong Parent-School Partnerships: Why Collaboration Between Home and School is Key to Student Success

At White Pine, we’re all about shaping students into well-rounded individuals—ready to take on the world as compassionate, ethical, and involved citizens. But raising kids to be more than just academically prepared, especially in today’s fast-paced world, requires a strong partnership between home and school. As Henry Ford said, “Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.”

Where do you think we are? Are we coming together, keeping together, or working together? What can we all do as stakeholders to help us reach success?

This kind of partnership is essential to helping our students thrive, and it takes mutual respect, open communication, and a lot of collaboration.

We all have the same goal: to see kids succeed—not just in school, but as people. We’re all invested in their growth, which is why we need to show respect for each other’s roles. That means when things get tough, we need patience and dialogue to keep things moving forward.

Communication is a big part of making this work. We’ll keep families updated regularly and reach out if there are concerns, but we need families to do the same. If a student is struggling or has an issue, it’s best to bring it directly to the teacher or staff member involved. That way, we can solve the problem together, with everyone’s input. Educating children is a team sport.

While we encourage open dialogue and value the perspectives of our families, the most effective solutions come when we work directly together. Addressing concerns through the right channels allows for constructive conversations and ensures that everyone’s voice is heard. This partnership—built on mutual respect and open communication—will lead us to stronger outcomes for our students. After all, progress is made when we’re focused on solutions, not distractions. 

We set high expectations for all our students, and we need families to back those up. Kids tend to rise to what’s asked of them, so instead of lowering the bar, we focus on building trust—trust that they can meet those expectations with our support.

At the end of the day, we’re here to help kids develop character. Sure, their grades matter, but it’s their perseverance, responsibility, and integrity that will really carry them through life. Mistakes will happen—we all make them!—but we can help them see those setbacks as opportunities to grow.

Parenthood and teaching aren’t easy, and the road ahead won’t always be smooth. There will be bumps, setbacks, and hard days—days when it feels like nothing is going right, and the weight of it all might feel too heavy. But through it all, the most important thing we can offer our children is unity. When we stand together, communicate openly, and respect one another’s role in their lives, we show them the power of collaboration. We show them that, no matter what, they are not alone.

It’s easy to get caught in the chaos of our busy lives and let frustration cloud our judgment. But at the heart of this work, of teaching and raising children, is a shared love for them. Every teacher, every parent, every staff member—we are all here because we care deeply. And we are in this together, through the challenges and the triumphs, hand in hand, working to give our children the foundation they need to rise.

By: Alysa Trust

K-3 Principal

How to Make Reading at Home More Enjoyable: Tips from a Mom who Loves it!

I recently saw a post in a Mom’s Facebook group from a mom asking how other moms manage to get reading homework done. The comments were full of other stressed-out moms with the same struggle. It actually made me a bit sad. Reading “homework” is by far my favorite part of the day. I am by no means an expert, but I thought I’d share some ideas that keep reading homework enjoyable for my family:

1.)     Change your mindset! Reading is not a chore. Reading is not something to rush to get done or something to check off a to-do list. Instead, think of reading as something you GET to do. Kids pick up on energy, so if you are looking forward to it and enjoying it, they will most likely follow.

2.)     Use reading to relax! Are you or your child frustrated or just having an annoying day? Take a “book break”. Dr. David Lewis’ research revealed that reading as little as 6 minutes a day can reduce stress by 60% by reducing your heart rate, easing muscle tension and altering your state of mine. Literally and simply, reading relaxes you!

3.)     Routine, routine, routine. Get into a routine that works for your child. I don’t like forcing or scrambling to get in some reading time. Just like there are certain parts of the day that I do and don’t want to read, the same goes for kids. My son and I prefer to read right before bed (which is no surprise considering #2), so that’s what we do.

4.)     You don’t have to finish every book you start. Just like we turn a movie off if it isn’t interesting or stop watching a TV series if it is boring, you can stop reading a book that just isn’t keeping your child interested. A child will be more likely to give different books a try if they know they won’t be forced to finish it. It also helps to have a conversation on why they don’t like it, so you can help with book selections next time.  

5.)     Don’t rush to get a book or chapter finished. During reading time, it is o.k. to spend more time talking about the book’s characters, settings, predictions, etc., than reading it. Some books have cool illustrations that need a little extra time to take in. Slow down and really enjoy the book and all that it has to offer!

6.)     Always have a book with you. You never know when you will get some unexpected time to read. Reading has helped during traffic jams, waiting time before doctors or dentist appointments and at the airport!

7.)     Make reading fun!

a.       Use silly voices for each character.

b.       Alternate pages. If I’m sitting on the left side, I read the left page, and my son reads the right page or vice versa.

c.       “Would you rather” questions always keep us laughing during books. (E.g., “Would you rather have Captain Underpants or Amelia Bedelia as your best friend? I am Team Amelia Bedelia in case anyone cares.)

d.       Incorporate different locations every so often. Read at park, along the River Walk, in a fort you make, at a soda shop, etc.

e.       Ambiance is everything. Try reading a mystery or spooky book in the dark with a flashlight. Build a fort to read inside of. Get a giant fluffy blanket and some hot chocolate to read with.

f.        Utilize libraries. Ammon and Idaho Falls have great libraries. Kids love getting to pick out as many books as they want and can hold. The board games, 3D printer, table toys, art supplies and picking movies to rent also makes it fun for kids. While there, find a cozy spot and read for a bit in between other activities.

g.       Text! Reading a text is reading, so engage via text for awhile.

h.       Browse different stores online! Reading product descriptions is still reading. My son’s personal favorite right now is reading about different Lego Sets.

i.         Try a real newspaper. This is not a joke. Kids feel like you’ve taken them back in time when you pull out a newspaper. It is even better if you have a newspaper from 10+ years ago. This one is fun for elementary through high school aged kids.

Please comment on this blog with your tips and tricks! I’d love to hear what others enjoy about reading and ways you keep it fun!

By: Michelle Brown

Mother of 3^rd Grade WPSC Student

Love of Reading

When I was a kid, I hated reading.

I know that might be controversial to say as an English teacher, but it's the truth. I had a difficult time seeing the 'point' in my education in general, and because reading did not come as easily to me as art did, I was determined not to do it at all.

And then my teacher read Black Beauty by Anna Sewell. 

It is my personal belief that everyone has a story that was written just for them. And my hope for everyone I meet is that they have either already found that story or that they continue their journey to find it.

Black Beauty was my story. As our teacher read aloud to us, my heart caught fire on the magic that is the written word. Sewell's engaging narrative pulled me into her world of horse-drawn carriages and class struggles, then pushed me back into a reality where I could either remain stagnant or grow into the potential that I always had. 

Because of that story, and because I made the choice to grow, I went from the lowest level student to the highest in one year. 

It is because of that experience and many similar to it that I became a teacher. While it is true that every student's journey is unique and that much of their success depends on their willingness to grow, I also know that my teacher's choice to read to us is the catalyst that cased that change in myself. I know that, without her and many other incredible people in my life, I would not have gained the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed.

So, while I do not consider myself the ultimate reason behind my student's success or failures, I take into account the importance of my role in their life every day. It is my job to provide those catalysts for growth and a love of learning that can only be sparked by those who have found it themselves.

The one universal truth I have found in educators is a genuine love of learning and developing forever.

For me, that love of learning came through the written word. For others, it may by that first science lab or math equation where everything just clicks. And for still others, that love could be seen on a football or soccer field while surrounded by the teammates who support you through any and everything. 

So, from one lost kid to another, please stay open to the possibilities all around you. Who knows? That history lesson or math worksheet could be the spark that sets off a lifetime dream - and even if it isn't, just take it one step at a time. It takes real bravery to keep trying...so let's keep trying together.

By: Amber Griffin, 6th Grade English/History

Discomfort Leads to Growth

Discomfort Leads to Growth

Teaching seventh grade is both a privilege and a challenge. It's a pivotal time in a child's life, where they navigate the often turbulent waters of adolescence and grapple with self-doubt. Last year, I introduced my students to Shakespeare's "The Tempest" through a group activity in which each group was tasked with performing a scene. Initially, the idea seemed fun and engaging, but soon, a wave of anxiety swept over some students when they realized they would perform in front of their peers.

One student, in particular, approached me with a request. She asked if she could perform just for me or be excused from the activity altogether because she felt uncomfortable. I empathized with her but explained that while I value comfort in my classroom, this was an opportunity for growth that I couldn’t let her shy away from. I told her that facing this challenge would make her stronger and more resilient. I stood my ground, clarifying that participation was a requirement because I believed in her potential.

Despite her anxiety, this student eventually embraced the fact that she had to perform. When the day of the presentation arrived, she not only completed her scene but did so with remarkable poise and confidence. I was thrilled to see her smiling throughout the performance, a testament to her triumph over her fears.

The real transformation happened later when the class was assigned a history presentation. This time, without hesitation, she volunteered to present. She didn’t even ask if she could perform just for me. Instead, she took the initiative to share what she had learned, showcasing her growth and newfound confidence.

Through this experience, I witnessed firsthand the power of pushing students beyond their comfort zones. It reaffirmed my belief that growth often comes from facing challenges head-on. I also realized that my own journey as a teacher involves similar moments of discomfort. Each challenging situation helps me grow, reminding me that I, too, am on a path of continuous development. I cherish my interactions with my students, as they inspire me and highlight the importance of embracing vulnerability. Through our collective growth, I am reminded that every uncomfortable moment contributes to becoming a better educator.

As parents and educators, we have the profound responsibility to guide our students through these transformative moments, helping them discover their strength and resilience along the way.

Encouraging our kids to step out of their comfort zones is key. Whether it’s trying a new sport, speaking in front of the class, or tackling a difficult project, these experiences can lead to personal growth. It's important that our children understand that feeling uncomfortable is a normal part of learning and growing and that embracing discomfort can lead to significant personal growth. This understanding can be a powerful motivator for them.

So, let’s embrace discomfort as an opportunity for growth. Let’s encourage our kids to take on challenges and try new things. By creating a home and a school where challenges are welcomed and viewed as chances to learn, we can help our children appreciate the knowledge that discomfort leads to growth. Let's inspire them to see that every step forward, no matter how small and uncomfortable, is a victory worth celebrating.

By: Angie Briscoe, 7th Grade English/History

Building Futures: Introducing Engineering to Young Minds at White Pine Charter School

As educators, we constantly seek innovative ways to inspire our students and prepare them for the future. At White Pine Charter School, we are developing a new engineering program tailored specifically for our K-5 students. This initiative aims to spark curiosity, foster critical thinking, and lay a solid foundation for our young learners in the world of engineering and technology.

Why Engineering?

In today’s fast-paced world, engineering plays a pivotal role in problem-solving and creativity. By introducing engineering concepts early, we can help students develop essential skills such as teamwork, resilience, and analytical thinking. The goal is to make engineering accessible and engaging, allowing students to see the practical applications of what they learn in the classroom.

Program Overview

Our engineering program will focus on hands-on, project-based learning. Students will engage in activities that encourage exploration and experimentation, such as:

-Environmental Engineering Projects: Students will explore concepts like sustainability and conservation by designing solutions to real-world problems, such as creating water filtration systems or planning a community garden

-Design Challenges: Each month, students will face a new design challenge—like constructing a roller coaster for a marble using limited materials—encouraging creativity and critical thinking while applying engineering principles.

-Aerospace Exploration: Students will learn about flight and aerodynamics by building paper airplanes, rockets, or kites, testing their designs to see which can fly the farthest or stay airborne the longest.

-Simple Machines: Learning about levers, pulleys, and gears through interactive projects.

- Building Bridges: Using everyday materials to design and test structures, enhancing their understanding of engineering principles.

Curriculum Integration

To ensure a seamless integration of the engineering program into our existing curriculum, we will collaborate with teachers across various subjects. For instance, math lessons will incorporate measurements for building projects, while science classes will explore the properties of materials. This interdisciplinary approach will help students make connections between concepts and see the relevance of their learning.

Looking Ahead

As we embark on this exciting journey, our ultimate goal is to inspire the next generation of innovators. By introducing engineering concepts early, we hope to cultivate a passion for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) that will last a lifetime.

Stay tuned for updates as we develop this program and witness the incredible projects our students will create. Together, we are building futures and empowering our young engineers to dream big!

By: Katie Hadley, K-5 Engineering Teacher

Bye-Bye Blues

 Bye-Bye Blues! 

Greetings White Pine Elementary Parents! It is almost time to come back to school! Like me, most of the students are excited to meet new teachers, open brand new boxes of pencils and crayons and get to work! However, some students have a little trouble with the transition to school routines and leaving their family for the day.  Here are a few tips to help your student get ready for that first morning drop off. 

1. Get to know your teachers!  We would love for you to come to our Back to School Night on Monday, August 19th to meet your teacher, tour the classroom and become familiar with our school! Knowing what to expect and seeing a friendly face in a new environment can help lessen anxiety. Here are the assigned times: 

A-H: 5:00-6:00

I-Q: 6:00-7:00

R-Z: 7:00-8:00

2. Prepare for the morning! Set out school supplies and clothes the night before.  Go over what the morning will look like.  Establish a predictable morning routine that works for you and stick with it! 

• 

  Wake up

• 

  Get dressed 

• 

  Eat Breakfast

• 

  Brush teeth and hair

• 

  Gather school things

• 

  Hop in the car! 

• 

  School Drop off with a special wave or hug! 

3.  Create a predictable Goodbye Ritual! In the book, The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn, Chester Racoon and his mom decide a kiss on Chester’s palm will help him through the day. Listen to the book here: 'The Kissing Hand' read by Barbara Bain

Some ideas for a ritual of your own:  read a book together, create a special wave or hand shake, play with a special toy on the way to school, have a special phrase you repeat to one another. Be consistent with the ritual and don’t let it balloon into something more complicated.  Keep it simple! 

4. Know what is normal. Some clinginess, tears and anxiety are a normal sign of a healthy attachment to a parent. Transitions can take time! It is okay to cry or miss a parent.  It is even okay to feel angry at a parent for leaving.  Talk about these feelings with your child and let them know you understand. If your child is experiencing trouble sleeping, or is getting sick regularly, it might be time to talk to your pediatrician about next steps. 

5.  Stay positive! We can do hard things!  Remind your child you will be right there after school to pick them up and that big feelings will pass. They have done difficult things before and they are strong! Be sure to keep your emotions positive and save your own tears until after drop off. 

6. Be persistent! Avoid saying, “I will pick you up at lunch” or letting them leave early. Enforcing negative behavior makes it more difficult for everyone in the long run. 

7. Talk to Mrs. Katie! I want each of our White Pine Cougars to feel confident in their ability to stay through the school day.  If you need a little extra assistance, feel free to reach out to me.  I am here to help! 

This is going to be a wonderful school year.  I can’t wait to see each of your students next week! Go Cougars!

By: Mrs. Katie Barfuss, WP Social Skills Manager

A Strong Start

 Hello White Pine Families!

I’m so excited to introduce myself as your new K-3 Principal at White Pine Charter School. Over the years, I’ve been lucky enough to serve our amazing community in various roles, from teaching 1st and 2nd grade to working as the K-12 Vice Principal of Schools. While I’ve loved every part of my journey here, my heart truly belongs to our K-3 students. This is where my passion lies, what I’ve trained for, and where I feel I can make the most difference.

There’s something truly special about early elementary students. These years are filled with wonder and curiosity, and it’s during this time that we lay the foundation for a lifelong love of learning. It’s incredible to watch our young learners discover new things, build friendships, and grow in confidence. Their enthusiasm is contagious, and I’m committed to supporting their growth every step of the way.

As we kick off this school year, we have big goals for both our teachers and students. Our aim is to provide a well-rounded education that not only meets high academic standards but also nurtures each child’s personal growth. Being voted "Best School" for the third year in a row is a testament to our hard work, and we’re excited to keep that momentum going. 

The beginning of the school year is a time of excitement and sometimes a little apprehension for both students and parents. Please know that my door is always open to you. I'm committed to ensuring that every child feels safe, valued, and excited about learning. White Pine is a community that thrives on strong relationships, and I'm here to support not only your children but also you as parents. A strong school-home partnership is crucial for the success and well-being of our students.

At White Pine, we believe in the power of a close-knit community, and I'm honored to be a part of it. Together, we'll make this a wonderful and successful year for all our students. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me with any questions, concerns, or just to say hello. I look forward to working with you and getting to know each of your amazing children.

Be great!

Ms. Alysa Trust, K-3 Principal