Hello Families,

At Wildwood Elementary, we aren’t just focused on what our students are learning, but how they are growing as individuals. Through our Second Step social-emotional curriculum, we are empowering our students to become self-aware and self-directed learners!

Here is a look at the five key pillars our students are practicing every day to build these essential life skills:

1. Naming the Feeling 
Understanding yourself starts with being able to answer the question, "How am I feeling?" Our early learning and elementary units focus on identifying and labeling emotions. By giving a name to a feeling, whether it’s frustration, excitement, or nervousness, students gain the foundational tools needed to manage their reactions and communicate their needs effectively.

2. The Power of "I Can." 
The way we speak to ourselves matters! Our classrooms use daily affirmations to build self-worth. When a student says, "I can do hard things," they aren't just reciting a phrase; they are learning to manage big feelings and persevere through challenges with a positive internal voice.

3. Embracing the "Yet." 
Self-awareness involves knowing what we are good at and where we can grow. Students spend time identifying their unique strengths and values while embracing a Growth Mindset. By understanding their limitations not as permanent "stops" but as areas for development, they build the resilience necessary for long-term academic success.

4. Taking the Lead (Goal Setting)
Being self-directed means knowing where you want to go. Our Second Step lessons guide students through the process of setting, tracking, and reflecting on personal goals. This builds self-efficacy, giving students the confidence that their effort leads to real results.

5. Navigating the Digital World (Digital Well-Being)
In today’s world, self-awareness extends beyond the classroom and into the digital space. Our newest units help students understand their "digital footprint." By reflecting on how they engage online, Wildwood students are learning to be as mindful and kind behind a screen as they are face-to-face.

 Ask your student today: "What is one 'hard thing' you told yourself you could do this week?"

In partnership,

Scott Briske
Wildwood Principal

Reminder: Donate to your child's classroom Spring Fling basket and consider signing up for a volunteer slot at the Spring Fling. Spring Fling Volunteer Sign Up

Nature Night returns tonight, April 30, from 5-7 pm at Wildwood Elementary! Open to families with children ages 2 through 2nd grade, this event is all about exploring the outdoors through hands-on STEM activities and natural play. 

The event is FREE to attend, but advance registration is required. Click here to register up until the event starts at 5 pm! Also, be sure to bring payment to enjoy treats from Brick Oven Bus and Mik Mart Ice Cream Truck, which will be on-site throughout the evening. 

Did you know we are introducing a story stroll and scavenger hunt this year? This is in addition to familiar favorites like nature-inspired arts and crafts and the opportunity to meet reptiles from Snake Discovery! Click here for a behind-the-scenes look at what to expect at this year’s event.

Today the Minnesota Wild came to Wildwood to share about Fitness.  Special guests Nordy, Rusty, Natalie Darwitz and Alex Stalock put on a great presentation about getting exercise and eating healthy.  Following the presentation students participated in a fitness run to honor the Hinrichs family.   Students got to give the firefighters and hockey players high fives as they ran by!  It was such an exciting morning at Wildwood! 

April has been a month of showers- appreciation showers! The MPTO is very thankful for our paras and administrative assistants! Thank you for all your hard work and dedication to our students!

Here are the winners from April 24, 2026.  Way to go!

The MPTO is hosting a Staff Appreciation Breakfast on Wednesday, May 7 at Wildwood and OHA and we need your help to make it special. Whether you can donate food, drinks, or time, every little bit makes a big difference! There are still a few slots open so join us in showing our teachers how much we appreciate them! Please click here for the link.