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September marks National Deaf Awareness Month, a time to promote awareness, understanding, and inclusion of the d/Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities. The month focuses on educating the public about deafness, breaking down stereotypes, and advocating for equal rights, access, and opportunities. Why Deaf Awareness Matters Promoting Inclusivity: Deaf Awareness Month is an opportunity to promote inclusivity...

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Fasting: Hindu - Janmanshtami (Monday, Aug. 26)

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Fasting: Hindu - Janmanshtami (Monday, Aug. 26)

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🔗 Learn more

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October is dedicated to all LGBTQ+ history and heritage, which serves to remember and recognize the moments, the milestones, and the individuals who have led the movement for LGBT equality.

Missouri high school history teacher Rodney Wilson founded LGBT History Month in 1994. At the time of its founding, the month included important dates like National Coming Out Day on Oct. 11th and the anniversary of the first march on Washington by LGBT people in 1979 on Oct. 14th. The month now also includes Spirit Day - observed this year on Oct. 19th, during which people around the world wear or display the color purple in support of LGBT youth. October is also home to GLSEN's Ally Week.

In March, Transgender Day of Visibility celebrates the contributions of transgender and gender non-conformation people while increasing awareness of justice-oriented work.

Source: GLAAD.org

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LGBTQ+ History by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, businesses and more

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Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month | March

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Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month | March

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This curriculum connects disability rights into the broader civil rights movement, to perceive disability as a reflection of societal views of differences, and to treat people with disabilities with respect and dignity. Level K-5

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This curriculum connects disability rights into the broader civil rights movement, to perceive disability as a reflection of societal views of differences, and to treat people with disabilities with respect and dignity. Level K-5

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Fasting: Islam - Ramadan (Friday, Feb. 28-Sunday, Mar. 30)

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Fasting: Islam - Ramadan (Friday, Feb. 28-Sunday, Mar. 30)

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🔗 Learn more

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Fasting: Baha'i - The Baha'i Fast (Friday, Feb. 28-Wednesday, Mar. 19)

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Fasting: Baha'i - The Baha'i Fast (Friday, Feb. 28-Wednesday, Mar. 19)

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🔗 Learn more

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Fasting: Christian - Lent (Wednesday, Mar. 5-Thursday, Apr. 17)

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Fasting: Christian - Lent (Wednesday, Mar. 5-Thursday, Apr. 17)

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🔗 Learn more

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On this day we take the time to observe and honor the individuals who died for the United States of America by their service in the US Armed Forces. We usually date the start of this event to 1868 because the first Memorial Day has been erased from our collective history. This holiday began with thousands of freed Black people in Charleston, SC in 1865. They properly buried hundreds of Union soldiers and commemorated the end of the Civil War in a series of events, including a parade by 3,000 Black children, sermons, and picnics, that were attended 10,000 Black residents of the city. Furthermore, "African American veterans claimed a prominent position in the observation of Memorial Day" through the 1910s (Source).

🔗 Learn about the forgotten Black origins & history of Memorial Day

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Harvey Milk was a human rights leader in the United States, winning a seat in the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in 1977. He advocated for a wide range of human rights and environmental protections. As an openly gay leader, he helped pass a gay rights ordinance for the city of San Francisco that prohibited anti-gay discrimination in housing and employment. He is remembered for his work on equality.

“All young people, regardless of sexual orientation or identity, deserve a safe and supportive environment in which to achieve their full potential.” - Harvey Milk

How do we bring Harvey Milk's legacy into our conversations?

Learn more at the Milk Foundation

Celebrate Harvey’s legacy by flying a rainbow or peace/freedom flag

Read Milks Speech “Hope”

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Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is one of Judaism's holiest days. Meaning "head of the year" or "first of the year," the festival begins on the first day of Tishrei, the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar, which falls during September or October. Rosh Hashanah commemorates the creation of the world and marks the beginning of the Days of Awe, a 10-day period of introspection and repentance that culminates in the Yom Kippur holiday, also known as the Day of Atonement. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are the two "High Holy Days" in the Jewish religion.

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Jewish History and Heritage - March 13th, 2023 by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more

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Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women | Monday, May 5

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Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women | Monday, May 5

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Native Heritage and History by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, businesses and more

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Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Month | May

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Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Month | May

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Our diverse community provides opportunities to learn and celebrate with each other.

We highlight heritage and identity months in Bellingham Public Schools to recognize contributions of various groups in the United States, many who remain underserved in education. We honor and acknowledge diversity allowing us to explore the origins of heritage and identity.

National Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month celebrates Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States. May was chosen to commemorate the Chinese immigrants who completed the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869 and the first Japanese immigrants to the United States in May 1843.

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Our diverse community provides opportunities to learn and celebrate with each other. We highlight heritage and identity months in Bellingham Public Schools to recognize contributions of various groups in the United States, many who remain underserved in education. We honor and acknowledge diversity allowing us to explore the origins of heritage and identity.

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National Women's Equality Day (Monday, Aug. 26)

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National Women's Equality Day (Monday, Aug. 26)

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Native Heritage and History by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more

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Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402.

The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September18, respectively.

Source: National Hispanic Heritage Month

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Latino/a, Latinx, Hispanic Heritage - August 8th, 2022 by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more

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High impact: Jewish - Rosh Hashanah (Wednesday, Oct. 2-Friday, Oct. 4), Yom Kippur (Friday, Oct. 11-Saturday, Oct. 12), Sukkot (Wednesday, Oct. 16-Wednesday, Oct. 23)

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High impact: Jewish - Rosh Hashanah (Wednesday, Oct. 2-Friday, Oct. 4), Yom Kippur (Friday, Oct. 11-Saturday, Oct. 12), Sukkot (Wednesday, Oct. 16-Wednesday, Oct. 23)

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Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is one of Judaism's holiest days. Meaning "head of the year" or "first of the year," the festival begins on the first day of Tishrei, the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar, which falls during September or October. Rosh Hashanah commemorates the creation of the world and marks the beginning of the Days of Awe, a 10-day period of introspection and repentance that culminates in the Yom Kippur holiday, also known as the Day of Atonement. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are the two "High Holy Days" in the Jewish religion.

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Jewish History and Heritage - March 13th, 2023 by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more

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Fasting: Jewish - Yom Kippur (Friday, Oct. 11- Saturday, Oct. 12)

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Fasting: Jewish - Yom Kippur (Friday, Oct. 11- Saturday, Oct. 12)

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🔗 Learn more

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Fasting: Ganesh Chaturthi (Saturday, Sep. 7)

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Fasting: Ganesh Chaturthi (Saturday, Sep. 7)

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🔗 Learn more

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Teacher Resources: Trans Day of Visibility | Monday, Mar. 31

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Teacher Resources: Trans Day of Visibility | Monday, Mar. 31

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Gender terminology discussion guide

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Friday, March 31, is the eighth annual Transgender Day of Visibility. It's a day to show support for the trans community as well as recognize the accomplishments of trans individuals the world over. According to the Trans Student Educational Resources, this year's theme is "Trans Resistance," and anyone who wants to take part can do so through discussion, direct action, and dissemination of information. For elementary school educators, Welcoming Schools has several suggestions for participation.

To support transgender students, teachers need to be proactive in moving beyond the limitations of the gender binary in order to provide a learning environment that is gender-expansive and welcoming to all. A great starting place is the Welcoming Schools "Developing a Gender Inclusive School" resource. This framework provides steps that will help schools and districts to create a foundation for gender inclusive practices.

The approach is threefold: structural, relational, and instructional. A structural approach might be a bullying and harassment policy that enumerates gender identity as a protected class. Relational approaches include honoring the name and pronouns a student uses. An example of an instructional approach is this lesson that helps student to see, appreciate, and understand each other as individuals.

Another step schools can take to support transgender students is to provide professional development for teachers. Welcoming Schools offers training modules that specifically address the needs of transgender students: Creating Gender-expansive Schools and Supporting Transgender and Non-binary Students.

Taking place the week Gavin Grimm's case was supposed to be heard by the Supreme Court, Trans Day of Visibility assumes perhaps an even greater significance. At a time when trans youth are feeling increasingly marginalized, seeing their teachers take positive action on their behalf will go a long way toward providing a safer experience in school.
HRC Foundation's Welcoming Schools is the nation's premier professional development program dedicated to creating respectful and supportive elementary schools by embracing family diversity, creating LGBTQ- and gender-inclusive schools, preventing bias-based bullying and supporting transgender and non-binary students.

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Trans Day of Visibility: Actions for Elementary Educators

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Friday, March 31, is the eighth annual Transgender Day of Visibility. It's a day to show support for the trans community as well as recognize the accomplishments of trans individuals the world over. According to the Trans Student Educational Resources, this year's theme is "Trans Resistance," and anyone who wants to take part can do so through discussion, direct action, and dissemination of information.

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Native Heritage and History by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, businesses and more

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Women's Rights & History - August 8th, 2022 by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more

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Ramadan | Friday, Feb. 28-Sunday, Mar. 30

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Ramadan | Friday, Feb. 28-Sunday, Mar. 30

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After consulting with local Muslim parents and reviewing federal and state rulings concerning religious accommodation such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Revised Code of Washington 49.60, and 1981 Supreme Court case Recommended School Accommodations: Church of God v. Amarillo Independent Schools, we urge you to take the following into consideration in your planning:

OSPI Testing: The testing window for OSPI tests in 2023 includes Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. Please keep this in mind in your planning.

Exhaustion and Long Days: Students who are fasting will be exhausted. Many families wake up before dawn to have a meal before beginning the fast, and it is a tradition for some to also stay up late praying with their families. Due to the long days experienced by Muslim students during this time, we recommend making assignments for everyone due at 11:59 pm or even later, especially for older students.

Excused Absences: Teachers can accommodate Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha by not scheduling tests or important assignments on those days. If tests or assignments are scheduled on these days, we ask that teachers allow students to complete them before or after the student's excused holiday absence. Many Muslim employees, students and parents are unaware that excused absences are allowed under federal law for religious holidays. We ask schools to inform their Muslim students, parents, and staff of this option.

Respect Individuals: Some Muslims may not fast at all during Ramadan, or may fast on some days and not others due to age, religious involvement, or health considerations. When planning in-class or extracurricular events during this month, we recommend choosing options that don't involve food/drink or where food/drink are optional. If a student's quality of schoolwork changes during this period, please check in with the student and their family.

Send greetings: A common greeting is "Ramadan Kareem" or "Ramadan Mubarak," which is an Arabic greeting meaning, "May you have a blessed Ramadan." Let your students, families, and staff know that you recognize the significance of this time and, possibly, that you are willing to make accommodations for them if they may need it.

Setting up a dedicated break room where Muslim students and staff can pray or take a break between classes would be a considerate gesture.

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After consulting with local Muslim parents and reviewing federal and state rulings concerning religious accommodation such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Revised Code of Washington 49.60, and 1981 Supreme Court case Recommended School Accommodations: Church of God v.

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Fasting: Christian/Catholic - Good Friday (Friday, Apr. 18)

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Fasting: Christian/Catholic - Good Friday (Friday, Apr. 18)

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Not all who observe Good Friday fast. Many observers avoid eating meat on Good Friday and all Fridays during Lent.

🔗 Learn more

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Fasting: Islam - Ramadan (Friday, Feb. 28-Sunday, Mar. 30)

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Fasting: Islam - Ramadan (Friday, Feb. 28-Sunday, Mar. 30)

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🔗 Learn more

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Fasting: Hindu - Maha Shivaratri (Tuesday, Feb. 25-Wednesday, Feb. 26)

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Fasting: Hindu - Maha Shivaratri (Tuesday, Feb. 25-Wednesday, Feb. 26)

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🔗 Learn more

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Fasting: Baha'i - The Baha'i Fast (Friday, Feb. 28-Wednesday, Mar. 19)

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Fasting: Baha'i - The Baha'i Fast (Friday, Feb. 28-Wednesday, Mar. 19)

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🔗 Learn more

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High impact: Christian/Catholic - Easter Sunday (Sunday, Apr. 20)

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High impact: Christian/Catholic - Easter Sunday (Sunday, Apr. 20)

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🔗 Learn more

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High impact: Hindu - Holi (Friday, Mar. 14)

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High impact: Hindu - Holi (Friday, Mar. 14)

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🔗 Learn more

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High impact: Purim (Thursday, Mar. 13-Friday, Mar. 14)

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High impact: Purim (Thursday, Mar. 13-Friday, Mar. 14)

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🔗 Learn more

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High impact: Persian culture - Nowruz (Persian New Year) (Thursday, Mar. 20)

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High impact: Persian culture - Nowruz (Persian New Year) (Thursday, Mar. 20)

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🔗 Learn more

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Americans of Chinese Decent History Month - WA

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Americans of Chinese Decent History Month - WA

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To celebrate January being named Americans of Chinese Descent History Month in Washington, public schools are encouraged to designate time in January for appropriate activities in commemoration of the lives, history, achievements, and contributions of Chinese Americans and Americans of Chinese descent.

This site includes posters of Washington State leaders of Chinese decent.

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Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Resources  & Events (Monday, Jan. 20) 

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Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Resources  & Events (Monday, Jan. 20) 

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This resource will be updated as we receive details about upcoming events.

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The annual King Holiday Observance is a time that we celebrate, commemorate and honor the life, legacy and impact of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Global citizens will have unique opportunities to learn and unite in celebration of Dr. King's groundbreaking work and Mrs. Coretta Scott King's powerful continuation and formal institutionalization of that work through a variety of engaging events.

Source: The King Center

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Martin Luther King, Jr. Day by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more

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Holocaust Remembrance Day | Monday, Jan. 27

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Holocaust Remembrance Day | Monday, Jan. 27

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https://www.smore.com/h0z65-jewish-history-and-heritage

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Orange shirt day, September 30th, serves as a conversation about the realities of residential schools and the impacts of cultural genocide on Indigenous peoples. The commemoration honors Indigenous peoples and brings communities together to repair relationships.

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The Weekly Update #4 - September 6th, 2023 by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more

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On the Gregorian calendar, it's a whole new year!

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Inclusive community building: Not all students and families celebrate the same holiday - or any holidays. Invite and incorporate diversity into your classroom and conversations to mirror the experiences of our families. Winter is a multi-month season; there are many holidays across cultures that are celebrated between November and February. In addition, l ook for ways to integrate traditions of culturally and linguistically diverse families throughout the year. Becoming familiar with and including the annual cultural traditions of diverse families within the larger school community not only creates a welcoming and respectful school environment - it has practical considerations for scheduling, opportunities in the classroom, and improved communication and engagement with families.

Mindful education around themes and avoiding tokenization : Ensure that instructional materials reflect broad perspectives of celebration and gratitude. Teach about bigger themes that cross many traditions, such as renewal, self-reflection, forgiveness, and acts of service. Utilize the "giving" messages by incorporating lessons about equity and justice. Pair lessons with disability justice or racial equity or service-learning projects.

Inclusive education avoids emphasizing some traditions over others (e.g., wearing Santa hats and Christmas sweaters) . The Anti-Defamation League suggests providing holiday-themed lessons and other media to teach about diverse holidays, rather than asking individual children to teach about their family's religious or cultural celebrations. This could cause children to feel alienated.

Trauma-informed knowledge : Many families experience the winter holidays with financial and emotional stress. Take extra care this season to watch for students who may be exhibiting signs of stress, anxiety or depression, which can all be exacerbated during the winter months.

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The Winter Edit by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more

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Valentine's Day |  Friday, Feb. 14 + Resources 

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Valentine's Day |  Friday, Feb. 14 + Resources 

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The clip above contains one idea behind the history of Valentines Day.  There is mention of execution.

https://www.history.com/news/6-surprising-facts-about-st-valentine

The link above contains literature that expresses multiple ideas behind the history of Valentines Day.  There is mention of execution.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HmggznT0t5Y

The link above is the most appropriate for younger students.  It contains one idea behind the history of Valentines Day. It mentions the death of Saint Valentine, but does not explicitly state details about execution.

Valentine's Day

Feb. 14 comes around every year, marked by traditional card envelopes, chocolates, conversation hearts, cards, and love. Did you know that Pope Gelasius declared the 14th day of February Feast Day for St. Valentine, a Roman saint and martyr, in 496 AD?

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Animated history of Saint Valentine Subtitles

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Our diverse community provides opportunities to learn and celebrate with each other. We highlight heritage and identity months in…

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Black History Month resources

Black Lives Matter at School Week of Action

Douglas Day

...and more!

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In 1926, when Dr. Carter G. Woodson established Negro History week, he recognized the importance of raising awareness of African Americans' contributions to history. 50 years later, the week became a month, February, dedicated to Black history. Dr. Woodson intended to highlight the contributions of Black people throughout history, supporting equality and civil rights, while increasing the visibility of Black life and history, at a time when few newspapers, books, and universities took notice of the Black community.

The 2024 theme of Black History is "African Americans and the Arts." This theme celebrates the impact Black Americans have had on visual arts, music, and cultural movements.

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Black History | More than a month by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more

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Fasting: Christian - Lent (Wednesday, Mar. 5-Thursday, Apr. 17)

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Fasting: Christian - Lent (Wednesday, Mar. 5-Thursday, Apr. 17)

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🔗 Learn more

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High impact: East and South Asian cultures - Lunar New Year (Wednesday, Jan. 29)

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High impact: East and South Asian cultures - Lunar New Year (Wednesday, Jan. 29)

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🔗 Learn more

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Inclusive community building: Not all students and families celebrate the same holiday - or any holidays. Invite and incorporate diversity into your classroom and conversations to mirror the experiences of our families. Winter is a multi-month season; there are many holidays across cultures that are celebrated between November and February. In addition, l ook for ways to integrate traditions of culturally and linguistically diverse families throughout the year. Becoming familiar with and including the annual cultural traditions of diverse families within the larger school community not only creates a welcoming and respectful school environment - it has practical considerations for scheduling, opportunities in the classroom, and improved communication and engagement with families.

Mindful education around themes and avoiding tokenization : Ensure that instructional materials reflect broad perspectives of celebration and gratitude. Teach about bigger themes that cross many traditions, such as renewal, self-reflection, forgiveness, and acts of service. Utilize the "giving" messages by incorporating lessons about equity and justice. Pair lessons with disability justice or racial equity or service-learning projects.

Inclusive education avoids emphasizing some traditions over others (e.g., wearing Santa hats and Christmas sweaters) . The Anti-Defamation League suggests providing holiday-themed lessons and other media to teach about diverse holidays, rather than asking individual children to teach about their family's religious or cultural celebrations. This could cause children to feel alienated.

Trauma-informed knowledge : Many families experience the winter holidays with financial and emotional stress. Take extra care this season to watch for students who may be exhibiting signs of stress, anxiety or depression, which can all be exacerbated during the winter months.

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The Winter Edit by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more

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Global Diversity Awareness Month | October

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Global Diversity Awareness Month | October

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From Census.gov > History: scroll down to "Census Bureau Diversity:"

The U.S. Census Bureau was one of the first government agencies to hire men and women of many races and ethnicities. Census Bureau enumerators and supervisors ... bring with them the local knowledge, language skills, and cultural understanding needed to make the census successful.

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native hawaiian or other pacific islander (nhopi)

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Global Diversity Awareness Month: October 2022

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From Census.gov > History: scroll down to "Census Bureau Diversity:" The U.S. Census Bureau was one of the first government agencies to hire men and women of many races and ethnicities. Census Bureau enumerators and supervisors ... bring with them the local knowledge, language skills, and cultural understanding needed to make the census successful.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402.

The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September18, respectively.

Source: National Hispanic Heritage Month

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Latino/a, Latinx, Hispanic Heritage - August 8th, 2022 by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more

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This curriculum connects disability rights into the broader civil rights movement, to perceive disability as a reflection of societal views of differences, and to treat people with disabilities with respect and dignity. Level K-5

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This curriculum connects disability rights into the broader civil rights movement, to perceive disability as a reflection of societal views of differences, and to treat people with disabilities with respect and dignity. Level K-5

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Filipino Americans are the second-largest Asian American group in the nation. The celebration of Filipino American History Month in October commemorates the first recorded presence of Filipinos in the continental United States, which occurred on October 18, 1587, when "Luzones Indios" came ashore from the Spanish galleon Nuestra Senora de Esperanza and landed at what is now Morro Bay, California. In 2009, U.S. Congress recognized October as Filipino American History Month in the United States. The late Dr. Fred Cordova, along with his wife, FANHS Founder Dr. Dorothy Laigo Cordova, first introduced October as Filipino American History Month in 1992 with a resolution from the FANHS National Board of Trustees.

Source: Filipino American National Historical Society

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Filipino Americans are the second-largest Asian American group in the nation. The celebration of Filipino American History Month in October commemorates the first recorded presence of Filipinos in the continental United States, which occurred on October 18, 1587, when "Luzones Indios" came ashore from the Spanish galleon Nuestra Senora de Esperanza and landed at what is now Morro Bay, California.

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Indigenous Peoples' Day | Monday, Oct. 14

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Indigenous Peoples' Day | Monday, Oct. 14

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Orange shirt day, September 30th, serves as a conversation about the realities of residential schools and the impacts of cultural genocide on Indigenous peoples. The commemoration honors Indigenous peoples and brings communities together to repair relationships.

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The Weekly Update #4 - September 6th, 2023 by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more

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High impact: Baha'i - Birth of Bab, Baha'u'llah (Nov. 2)

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High impact: Baha'i - Birth of Bab, Baha'u'llah (Nov. 2)

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🔗 Learn more

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Kwanzaa | Thursday, Dec. 26 - Wednesday, Jan.1

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Kwanzaa | Thursday, Dec. 26 - Wednesday, Jan.1

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From Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, a tradition for many Black Americans includes celebrating umoja (unity), kujichagulia (self-determination), ujima (collective work and responsibility), ujamaa (cooperative economics), nia (purpose), kuumba (creativity) and imani (faith), or Kwanzaa. Kwanzaa was created by Maulana Karenga to unite and empower the African American community, modeled after African harvest festivals.

The celebration caps on Dec. 31 with a banquet featuring food from various African countries. If gifts are exchanged, they are often homemade or purchased from Black-owned businesses.

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Around the world, Christmas traditions vary. The annual Christian celebration is held on Dec. 25 to celebrate the birth of Jesus. The name joins "Christ" and "mass" to mean the holy mass of Christ.

Some cultures focus on giving during Christmas, and others see it as a time of spiritual growth, healing, and belonging.

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In the northern hemisphere, the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year and the start of winter, will occur on Dec. 21.

Winter solstice traditions share themes of gathering and sharing food with family and community, taking place in the darkest and coldest time of the year. Shorter days and colder weather brings us indoors and provides time for introspection and focus on personal goals.

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Simbang Gabi | Monday, Dec. 16-Tuesday, Dec. 24

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Simbang Gabi | Monday, Dec. 16-Tuesday, Dec. 24

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Catholic Filipino traditions include a nine-day series of Masses in anticipation of Dec. 25. Simbang Gabi begins Dec. 16 and ends Dec. 24 with Misa de Gallo, a midnight mass. One origin story states that priests from the Spanish colonization period held pre-dawn masses so farmers could attend before going to work.

Filipino homes might be decorated with parols, colorful star-shaped lanterns to light up the festivities.

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Las Posadas and Noche Buena | Monday, Dec. 16-Tuesday, Dec. 24

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Las Posadas and Noche Buena | Monday, Dec. 16-Tuesday, Dec. 24

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Dec. 16 marks the beginning of celebrations in some Mexican traditions. Carols, a parade and a piñata are among the many highlights of the season, which lasts until Dec. 24. Noche Buena, on Dec. 24, is an anticipatory celebration where families gather in community often well into the night. Celebrations vary widely, but common elements include high energy festivity, food, music and community.

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Observed annually on Dec. 10, this year's Human Rights Day theme, EQUALITY - Reducing inequalities, advancing human rights, aligns with the United Nations' principle that equality is at the heart of human rights.

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Buddhist families celebrate Bodhi Day on Dec. 8, signifying the day Prince Siddhartha Gautama sat underneath the Bodhi tree and attained enlightenment. Mahayana Buddhists in China, Korea and Vietnam honor Bodhi Day as part of a larger tradition. Mahayana Buddhists celebrate Bodhi Day on the eighth day of the twelfth month of the lunar calendar, which means the dates change from year to year. In Japan, however, Bodhi Day follows the Gregorian calendar. Every year, Bodhi Day in Japan is celebrated on Dec. 8.

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High impact: Christian - Christmas Eve, Christmas (Tuesday, Dec. 24, Wednesday, Dec. 25 )

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High impact: Christian - Christmas Eve, Christmas (Tuesday, Dec. 24, Wednesday, Dec. 25 )

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High impact: Jewish - Hanukkah (Chanukah) (Wednesday, Dec. 25-Thursday, Jan. 2)

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High impact: Jewish - Hanukkah (Chanukah) (Wednesday, Dec. 25-Thursday, Jan. 2)

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Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is one of Judaism's holiest days. Meaning "head of the year" or "first of the year," the festival begins on the first day of Tishrei, the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar, which falls during September or October. Rosh Hashanah commemorates the creation of the world and marks the beginning of the Days of Awe, a 10-day period of introspection and repentance that culminates in the Yom Kippur holiday, also known as the Day of Atonement. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are the two "High Holy Days" in the Jewish religion.

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Jewish History and Heritage - March 13th, 2023 by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more

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Inclusive community building: Not all students and families celebrate the same holiday - or any holidays. Invite and incorporate diversity into your classroom and conversations to mirror the experiences of our families. Winter is a multi-month season; there are many holidays across cultures that are celebrated between November and February. In addition, l ook for ways to integrate traditions of culturally and linguistically diverse families throughout the year. Becoming familiar with and including the annual cultural traditions of diverse families within the larger school community not only creates a welcoming and respectful school environment - it has practical considerations for scheduling, opportunities in the classroom, and improved communication and engagement with families.

Mindful education around themes and avoiding tokenization : Ensure that instructional materials reflect broad perspectives of celebration and gratitude. Teach about bigger themes that cross many traditions, such as renewal, self-reflection, forgiveness, and acts of service. Utilize the "giving" messages by incorporating lessons about equity and justice. Pair lessons with disability justice or racial equity or service-learning projects.

Inclusive education avoids emphasizing some traditions over others (e.g., wearing Santa hats and Christmas sweaters) . The Anti-Defamation League suggests providing holiday-themed lessons and other media to teach about diverse holidays, rather than asking individual children to teach about their family's religious or cultural celebrations. This could cause children to feel alienated.

Trauma-informed knowledge : Many families experience the winter holidays with financial and emotional stress. Take extra care this season to watch for students who may be exhibiting signs of stress, anxiety or depression, which can all be exacerbated during the winter months.

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The Winter Edit by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more

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The Feast of Sacrifice is celebrated by millions of Muslims worldwide. The holiday might be celebrated with communal prayer, donations to charities, and a visit and gift exchange with family and friends.

The holiday begins on the 10th day of the lunar calendar. In 2022, the dates for Eid-ul-Adha are July 9-July 10.

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Also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, Muslims will celebrate it in most countries on July 31.

Eid al-Adha is the second major Muslim festival after Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting [Manish Swarup/AP Photo]

Muslims around the world have begun celebrating the annual festival of Eid al-Adha - the Festival of Sacrifice - which falls on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the 12th and last month of the Muslim lunar calendar.

Eid al-Adha is the second major Muslim festival after Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting.

The occasion will be celebrated in most countries on Friday, July 31.

As the coronavirus pandemic rages, many Muslim-majority countries, including Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates and Algeria have announced restrictions on public gatherings.

Here are five things to know about Eid al-Adha:

Origins

Muslims believe the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) was tested by God who commanded him to sacrifice his first-born son, Ismail (Ishmail).

Ibrahim was prepared to submit to the command, but God stayed his hand. Instead, he was told to sacrifice an animal, likely a lamb or sheep.

The Torah and the Old Testament both recount a similar version of this story.

End of Hajj

The event also marks the end of Hajj, a five-day pilgrimage all able-bodied and financially capable Muslims are obliged to undertake once in their lifetime. The pilgrimage is believed to cleanse the soul of sins and instil a sense of equality, sisterhood and brotherhood.

Some 2.5 million pilgrims from around the world flock annually to the cities of Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia for the ritual.

This year, however, Saudi Arabia announced it would hold a "very limited" Hajj because of the coronavirus pandemic, with only about 10,000 people living in the kingdom allowed to take part in the pilgrimage.

Eid prayers

Performing extra prayers in the morning are how most Muslims begin celebrating Eid.

Mosques are packed with worshippers with outside arrangements made to accommodate large groups of people.

This year, however, mosques will limit the number of attendees, and large congregations will be banned in many countries to stem the spread of the coronavirus.

Sacrificing an animal

The occasion is marked by the sacrifice of an animal that Muslims can eat - a goat, sheep, cow or camel - by those who can afford to do so.

In many parts of the Muslim world, special livestock markets are set up for people to buy an animal for the Eid sacrifice.

This year, amid the coronavirus pandemic, numerous apps and websites have appeared in countries such as India and Bangladesh, where animals will be sold online to limit exposure to the virus.

Distribution of meat

The animal sacrifice comes with an element of charity, as the person paying for the sacrifice is required to distribute part of it to others.

The meat of the sacrificed animal is divided among three groups: the person sacrificing it and their immediate family, extended family and friends, and those in need.

Some Muslims will pay the value of an animal to one of a number of Muslim charities around the world that collect funds for remote animal sacrifices, distributing the meat to underprivileged groups - including refugees, the elderly and disabled people.

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What is Eid al-Adha and how is it celebrated?

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Also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, Muslims will celebrate it in most countries on July 31. Muslims around the world have begun celebrating the annual festival of Eid al-Adha - the Festival of Sacrifice - which falls on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the 12th and last month of the Muslim lunar calendar.

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Black, Indigenous and People of Color Mental Health Month | July

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Black, Indigenous and People of Color Mental Health Month | July

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Black, Indigenous and People of Color Mental Health Month

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July is Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) Mental Health Month. We know school communities and policies that prioritize mental health literacy can create safer spaces where all young people can thrive—especially BIPOC students, who face disparities in mental health care. We hope you’ll co…

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Fasting: Islam - Ashura (Saturday, Jul. 5-Sunday, Jul. 6)

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Fasting: Islam - Ashura (Saturday, Jul. 5-Sunday, Jul. 6)

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Ashura is a holy day for Muslims all over the world, observed on the 9th and 10th day of Muharram, according to the Islamic calendar. This year, Ashura begins on July 16.

🔗 Learn more

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All About the Holidays (K-5)

Juneteenth for Mazie (K-5)
Juneteenth (6-12)
What is Juneteenth (interactive 9-12)

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Teaching Juneteenth

Classroom Guide for book Juneteenth Jamboree

Zinn Ed Project

Frederick Douglas on the 4th of July

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Juneteenth celebrates the ending of slavery in the United States. One more time for those in the back: Juneteenth celebrates the ending of slavery in the United States.

On June 19, 1865, Major General Gordon Granger and his Union soldiers arrived in Gavelston, Texas, and delivered General Order Number 3:

"The people of Texas are informed that in accordance with a Proclamation from the
Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and hired laborer."

This history may not align with the history many of were taught about the end of slavery. The Emancipation Proclamation was signed by President Lincoln on January 1, 1863. Juneteenth.com provides possible explanations of the discrepancy:

A messenger who was murdered on his way to Texas with the news of freedom

The news was deliberately withheld by the enslavers to maintain the labor force on the plantations

Federal troops actually waited for the slave owners to reap the benefits of one last cotton harvest before going to Texas to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation

How do we honor and celebrate Juneteenth?

There are many ways to celebrate Juneteenth, including street fairs and concerts. Because of the holiday's Southern roots, barbecue is a must, and red foods like strawberry soda and red velvet cake are traditionally served as the color is "a symbol of ingenuity and resilience in bondage," according to The New York Times.

Additional honors and recognitions occur in learning and finding connections across cultures. Oprah Daily suggests "learning about major firsts from African Americans, read a book by a Black author, catch a film that honors Black life, or support Black-owned companies. But most importantly, remember that all of those things shouldn't just happen on Juneteenth, but every day. Because it's never a bad time to celebrate the independence of everyone in our country."

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African Americans throughout the nation celebrate Juneteenth, but who knows what actually happened on June 19, 1865? As the nation observes the second federal legal holiday marking the emancipation of enslaved people in Texas, there are a number of misconceptions about the historical event that keep getting repeated.

Myth #1: President Abraham Lincoln issued his Emancipation Proclamation on Jan. 1, 1863, and it's outrageous that it took two and a half years for the news to finally reach enslaved people in Texas.

Fact: Many slaves knew about Lincoln's executive order emancipating them. The news was widely covered in Texas newspapers-with an anti-abolitionist spin-and Black people would have overheard white people discussing it in private and in public. Moreover, "There was an incredibly sophisticated communication network among slaves in Texas," says Edward T. Cotham, Jr., Texas Civil War historian and author of Juneteenth, The Story Behind The Celebration. "News like that spread like wildfire. We know some slaves knew about the Emancipation Proclamation even before slaveowners. It didn't mean anything because there was no army to enforce it."

June Collins Pulliam is a fifth-generation Galvestonian whose enslaved great-great-grandparents, Horace and Emily Scull, were freed by the Juneteenth Order. "It wasn't that all these poor people didn't get the message," she says, "It was that there was no one enforcing it, no one making it happen!"

Myth #2: Major Gen. Gordon Granger penned General Orders No. 3, the Juneteenth Order, and is credited with freeing Texas slaves.

Fact: The order-which includes the powerful language "all slaves are free" and "absolute equality"-was actually written by Granger's staff officer, Maj. Frederick Emery, who hailed from an abolitionist family in Free Kansas. "As a crusader against slavery in Kansas, Emery was well versed on the subject of emancipation," writes Cotham in his Juneteenth book.

Sam Collins III, the unofficial ambassador of Juneteenth tourism in Galveston, says, "Granger is just one of the characters in the story. He's not any great hero. Matter of fact, he was no friend of the enslaved people. There are reports of Granger sending runaway slaves back to slave states."

Myth #3: Gen. Gordon Granger read the Juneteenth Order from a balcony to the people of Galveston, announcing that "all slaves are free."

Fact: According to Cotham, Gen. Granger never read the order publicly, nor did any member of his staff. It would have been posted around town, particularly at places where Black people gathered, such as "the Negro Church on Broadway," as Reedy Chapel-AME Church was then called. Most enslaved people in Texas learned of General Orders No. 3 when the slavemaster called them together and read them the news.

Myth #4: The Juneteenth Order was basically a Texas version of the Emancipation Proclamation.

Fact: General Orders No. 3 stated unequivocally "all slaves are free," but it also contained patronizing language intended to appease planters who didn't want to lose their workforce. Forty-one words of the brief 93-word order urged enslaved people to stay put and keep working.
"The freed are advised to remain at their present homes, and work for wages. They are informed that they will not be allowed to collect at military posts; and that they will not be supported in idleness either there or elsewhere."
Sam Collins: "The last two sentences advised the freedmen to remain at their present homes and work for wages. So you're free, but don't go anywhere."

Ed Cotham: "Many years later, the formerly enslaved (interviewed for the 1930s WPA Slave Narratives) remembered when the Freedom Paper was read to them. The slaveholder wanted to keep them working, but they didn't hear it that way. Once they heard "all slaves are free" they said to hell with you. That's what made the Juneteenth Order so memorable and made it succeed."

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Four enduring myths about Juneteenth are not based on facts

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African Americans throughout the nation celebrate Juneteenth, but who knows what actually happened on June 19, 1865? As the nation observes the second federal legal holiday marking the emancipation of enslaved people in Texas, there are a number of misconceptions about the historical event that keep getting repeated.

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We continue to highlight heritage and identity months in Bellingham Public Schools to recognize contributions of various groups in the United States, many who remain underserved in education. We honor and acknowledge diversity allowing us to explore the origins of heritage and identity.

This June, we support and learn about Pride. As Juneteenth nears, we prepare ourselves with resources, local and beyond, to ensure we all know more about this now federally observed holiday.

Thank you for continuing this journey of learning and healing with us.

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month (LGBT Pride Month) is celebrated annually in June to honor the 1969 Stonewall riots, and works to achieve equal justice and equal opportunity for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) Americans. In June of 1969, patrons and supporters of the Stonewall Inn in New York City staged an uprising to resist the police harassment and persecution to which LGBT Americans were commonly subjected. This uprising marks the beginning of a movement to outlaw discriminatory laws and practices against LGBT Americans.

Today, celebrations include pride parades, picnics, parties, workshops, symposia and concerts, and LGBT Pride Month events attract millions of participants around the world. Memorials are held during this month for those members of the community who have been lost to hate crimes or HIV/AIDS. The purpose of the commemorative month is to recognize the impact that LGBTQ individuals have had on history locally, nationally, and internationally.

Federal and local policies and practices are increasingly acknowledging and focusing on LGBTQ youth and numerous national advocacy and other organizations are also giving greater attention to LGBTQ youth in their work. Encouraging greater acceptance and support for all youth, including those who are or are perceived to be LGBTQ, will make communities, schools, and other settings safer, better places for all youth.

Source: youth.gov

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We continue to highlight heritage and identity months in Bellingham Public Schools to recognize contributions of various groups in the United States, many who remain underserved in education. We honor and acknowledge diversity allowing us to explore the origins of heritage and identity. This June, we support and learn about Pride.

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April 1st-April 30th

The month of April is a time to formally recognize the achievements of Arab Americans through honoring and celebrating National Arab American Heritage Month.

Informatiive Clip About the History of Arab American History MOnth

Arab Americans Speak About Some of Their Experiences Being Arab American

K-12 Lesson Plans for Arab American Heritage Month

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The month of April is a time to formally recognize the achievements of Arab Americans through honoring and celebrating National Arab American Heritage Month. Informatiive Clip About the History of Arab American History MOnth Arab Americans Speak About Some of Their Experiences Being Arab American

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Ramadan | Friday, Feb. 28-Sunday, Mar. 30

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Ramadan | Friday, Feb. 28-Sunday, Mar. 30

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After consulting with local Muslim parents and reviewing federal and state rulings concerning religious accommodation such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Revised Code of Washington 49.60, and 1981 Supreme Court case Recommended School Accommodations: Church of God v. Amarillo Independent Schools, we urge you to take the following into consideration in your planning:

OSPI Testing: The testing window for OSPI tests in 2023 includes Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. Please keep this in mind in your planning.

Exhaustion and Long Days: Students who are fasting will be exhausted. Many families wake up before dawn to have a meal before beginning the fast, and it is a tradition for some to also stay up late praying with their families. Due to the long days experienced by Muslim students during this time, we recommend making assignments for everyone due at 11:59 pm or even later, especially for older students.

Excused Absences: Teachers can accommodate Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha by not scheduling tests or important assignments on those days. If tests or assignments are scheduled on these days, we ask that teachers allow students to complete them before or after the student's excused holiday absence. Many Muslim employees, students and parents are unaware that excused absences are allowed under federal law for religious holidays. We ask schools to inform their Muslim students, parents, and staff of this option.

Respect Individuals: Some Muslims may not fast at all during Ramadan, or may fast on some days and not others due to age, religious involvement, or health considerations. When planning in-class or extracurricular events during this month, we recommend choosing options that don't involve food/drink or where food/drink are optional. If a student's quality of schoolwork changes during this period, please check in with the student and their family.

Send greetings: A common greeting is "Ramadan Kareem" or "Ramadan Mubarak," which is an Arabic greeting meaning, "May you have a blessed Ramadan." Let your students, families, and staff know that you recognize the significance of this time and, possibly, that you are willing to make accommodations for them if they may need it.

Setting up a dedicated break room where Muslim students and staff can pray or take a break between classes would be a considerate gesture.

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After consulting with local Muslim parents and reviewing federal and state rulings concerning religious accommodation such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Revised Code of Washington 49.60, and 1981 Supreme Court case Recommended School Accommodations: Church of God v.

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High impact: Sikh/Tamil - Vaisakhi/Vishu New Year (Monday, Apr. 14)

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High impact: Sikh/Tamil - Vaisakhi/Vishu New Year (Monday, Apr. 14)

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🔗 Learn more

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High impact: Islam - Eid al-Fitr (end of Ramadan) (Saturday, Mar. 29)

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High impact: Islam - Eid al-Fitr (end of Ramadan) (Saturday, Mar. 29)

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High impact: Telugu/Kannada - Ugadi/Yugadi New Year (Sunday, Mar. 30)

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High impact: Telugu/Kannada - Ugadi/Yugadi New Year (Sunday, Mar. 30)

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High impact: Jewish - Passover (Saturday, Apr. 12-Sunday, Apr. 20)

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High impact: Jewish - Passover (Saturday, Apr. 12-Sunday, Apr. 20)

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🔗 Learn more

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Dia de los Muertos (Friday, Nov. 1-Saturday, Nov. 2)

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Dia de los Muertos (Friday, Nov. 1-Saturday, Nov. 2)

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Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402.

The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September18, respectively.

Source: National Hispanic Heritage Month

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Latino/a, Latinx, Hispanic Heritage - August 8th, 2022 by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more

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Transgender Day of Remembrance (Wednesday, Nov. 20)

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Transgender Day of Remembrance (Wednesday, Nov. 20)

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Since its creation, October has been to remember and recognize the moments, the milestones, and the individuals who have led the movement for LGBT equality.

Missouri high school history teacher Rodney Wilson founded LGBT History Month in 1994. At the time of its founding, the month included important dates like National Coming Out Day on Oct. 11th and the anniversary of the first march on Washington by LGBT people in 1979 on Oct. 14th. The month now also includes Spirit Day - observed this year on Oct. 19th, during which people around the world wear or display the color purple in support of LGBT youth. October is also home to GLSEN's Ally Week.

Source: GLAAD.org

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Since its creation, October has been to remember and recognize the moments, the milestones, and the individuals who have led the movement for LGBT equality. Missouri high school history teacher Rodney Wilson founded LGBT History Month in 1994. At the time of its founding, the month included important dates like National Coming Out Day on Oct.

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Native/Indigenous History and Heritage Month | November

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Native/Indigenous History and Heritage Month | November

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Orange shirt day, September 30th, serves as a conversation about the realities of residential schools and the impacts of cultural genocide on Indigenous peoples. The commemoration honors Indigenous peoples and brings communities together to repair relationships.

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The Weekly Update #4 - September 6th, 2023 by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more

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High impact: Hindu - Diwali (Friday, Nov. 1) and Gujarati New Year (Saturday, Nov. 2)

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High impact: Hindu - Diwali (Friday, Nov. 1) and Gujarati New Year (Saturday, Nov. 2)

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High impact: Baha'i - Day of the Covenant (Sunday, Nov. 24-Monday, Nov. 25)

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High impact: Baha'i - Day of the Covenant (Sunday, Nov. 24-Monday, Nov. 25)

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🔗 Learn more

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Inclusive community building: Not all students and families celebrate the same holiday - or any holidays. Invite and incorporate diversity into your classroom and conversations to mirror the experiences of our families. Winter is a multi-month season; there are many holidays across cultures that are celebrated between November and February. In addition, l ook for ways to integrate traditions of culturally and linguistically diverse families throughout the year. Becoming familiar with and including the annual cultural traditions of diverse families within the larger school community not only creates a welcoming and respectful school environment - it has practical considerations for scheduling, opportunities in the classroom, and improved communication and engagement with families.

Mindful education around themes and avoiding tokenization : Ensure that instructional materials reflect broad perspectives of celebration and gratitude. Teach about bigger themes that cross many traditions, such as renewal, self-reflection, forgiveness, and acts of service. Utilize the "giving" messages by incorporating lessons about equity and justice. Pair lessons with disability justice or racial equity or service-learning projects.

Inclusive education avoids emphasizing some traditions over others (e.g., wearing Santa hats and Christmas sweaters) . The Anti-Defamation League suggests providing holiday-themed lessons and other media to teach about diverse holidays, rather than asking individual children to teach about their family's religious or cultural celebrations. This could cause children to feel alienated.

Trauma-informed knowledge : Many families experience the winter holidays with financial and emotional stress. Take extra care this season to watch for students who may be exhibiting signs of stress, anxiety or depression, which can all be exacerbated during the winter months.

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The Winter Edit by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more