Happy Hall Newsletter | April 2026
- Shawna Mccune
- 6 minutes ago
- 21 min read
What's Inside
Message from the Executive Director
April is where you really start to see the growth.
By this point in the year, children are more settled, more confident, and more connected to the people around them. The routines that once felt new are now second nature, and that familiarity creates space for something bigger. More independence. Stronger friendships. A willingness to take risks and try new things.
It’s one of the most rewarding times of the year because the progress is visible. Not just in what children can do, but in how they carry themselves. You’ll see it in the way they solve problems, include others, and move through their day with a greater sense of ownership.
At the same time, we’re beginning to look ahead. Transitions are on the horizon, and part of our work now is helping students feel prepared for what’s next while staying grounded in the present.
You’ll also start to see more of our transition to Strata Learning. This shift reflects a broader vision for our programs and the communities we serve, while maintaining the consistency and care that families expect. The name is new, but the heart of what we do remains the same.
Thank you for being part of this season with us. It’s a meaningful one.
Rachel Heck, Executive Director
Announcements
2026–2027 Preschool Enrollment
Enrollment for the upcoming school year is underway.
Program details, schedules, and options are available at: stratalearningacademy.com
New families are actively inquiring, and availability will shift quickly as enrollment progresses
Each site has limited capacity based on staffing and licensing ratios
If you are considering adjustments to your schedule or program, now is the time to plan ahead.
2026–2027 After School Enrollment
Enrollment information for our After School programs will be released later this week.
Programs will continue to align with school calendars and family needs
Priority and timing details will be shared once enrollment opens
Space is limited and based on staffing, facility use, and district partnerships
We recommend reviewing details as soon as they are released to secure your preferred schedule.
Summer Camp 2026
Camp Happy Hall’s early bird discount of up to $30 off per session ends May 1!
Our camp weeks are filling up quickly, so we encourage families to register soon to secure their spot: https://www.camphappyhall.com/registration
You can also explore openings at our newest Burlingame location, which still has spots available!
Learn more and register at www.camphappyhall.com.
Rotary Highlight
April has been a hands-on month for our Rotary community.
In honor of Earth Day, we partnered with the Taylor and Mills Interact Clubs on a community gardening project. Students worked side by side to improve shared spaces while learning about responsibility, sustainability, and teamwork.
At Taylor Middle School, Happy Hall students are also contributing to this weekend’s Rotary District Celebration. They are creating a centerpiece that represents the Gift of Life project, connecting their work to Rotary’s global impact.
This is what service looks like in practice. Students doing real work, with real purpose.
Small Business Spotlight
Perfect Pour Cafe – Pacifica
2500 Francisco Blvd, Pacifica, CA
Perfect Pour Cafe lives up to its name.
This is a place that delivers across the board. Strong coffee, flavorful food, and a space that feels genuinely local.
Standouts:
The hash burrito, especially with sausage, is worth going out of your way for
Specialty drinks like the dirty pumpkin chai and pumpkin spice latte are consistently well done
Breakfast and lunch options, like the chipotle breakfast panini and spicy turkey panini, are solid and satisfying
Beyond food and drinks, they also feature local artisan jewelry, giving small makers a place to showcase their work. It adds another layer to the experience and keeps the space connected to the community.
It’s the kind of place you stop into once and then keep coming back to.
If you’re in Pacifica, it’s an easy recommendation.
Nominate a Small Business
Each month, we will highlight a small business connected to our Happy Hall community. If you would like to nominate a business to be featured, please email us with the name of the business and a short note about why you’re recommending them.
Email: info@happyhall.com
Stay Connected
Check out our photo galleries:
Happy Hall @ Dolores Way
Director's Message
I am getting settled back in and truly enjoying spending time with the teachers and children again. It has been amazing to see how much the children have grown in just a few short weeks!
As we continue through the spring season, we are intentionally supporting our preschool friends as they grow and prepare for what comes next. Whether children will be transitioning to a new program or continuing with us, we are focused on helping each child build confidence, adapt to new experiences, and feel excited about the opportunities ahead.
Program Highlights
Engagement Activities
In April, we welcomed spring by planting and learning about the life cycle of plants. Pine Class also explored insects and other nature friends, such as frogs. In May, we will continue observing the flowers we planted and watching how they grow. We will also focus on healthy bodies by learning about nutritious foods, exercise, and ways to stay healthy and active.
Big Kicks Soccer is starting a new session! This last session was so fun with a nice big group. Sign up here to join! Big Kicks Spring Session
Community Events
We had so much fun celebrating Week of the Young Child with fun dress up days and creative art activities. Thanks for participating!
Please show your teachers how much you appreciate them everyday, but especially May 4-8 for teacher appreciation week.
Here are some ideas :
A card created by your child
A gift card
A small art project
Flowers
A homemade treat
Here is a list of our teaching team:
Pine Class: Ms. Kathy, Ms. Monica and Ms. Katie
Oak and Elm Class: Ms. Rosa, Ms. Esa and Ms, Maritess
Floating in all classrooms: Ms. Alyssa and Ms. Sophie
If you would like help coordinating a class surprise, feel free to reach out—I’m happy to assist!
Professional Development
Our teachers are currently busy preparing your child’s end-of-year portfolio, which will be shared with families in May. These portfolios highlight each child’s growth, learning experiences, and accomplishments throughout the school year.
At the same time, our teaching team is planning a variety of fun and engaging summer activities and curriculum experiences to keep children active, curious, and excited about learning. We are looking forward to a summer filled with exploration, creativity, meaningful play, and lots of fun together.
Looking Ahead
Wednesday, April 29th - Picture Day!!!!! (8am-12pm)
May 4th-8th - Teacher Appreciation Week!
Friday, May 22nd - Closed for Staff Development Day
Monday, May 25th - Closed for Memorial Day
Friday, June 5th - Closed for Parent Teacher Conferences (Sign ups coming soon)
Shelley Marquez
Program Director
Happy Hall @ Dolores Way
Happy Hall @ Ortega
Director's Message
We have been embracing all that April has brought, from rainy days to moments of sunshine in between the showers. Our preschoolers have been enjoying a mix of cozy indoor activities and quick outdoor adventures, including puddle splashing and observing the changes in nature. Along the way, we’ve spotted beautiful rainbows, blooming flowers, and even a few bugs making their appearance during the wet weather and sunny breaks. These experiences have created wonderful opportunities for exploration, curiosity, and hands-on learning.
As we continue through the spring season, we are thoughtfully supporting our preschool friends as they grow and prepare for what’s ahead. Whether they will be transitioning to a new program or continuing with us, we are focused on helping each child build confidence, adapt to change, and feel excited about the experiences still to come.
Program Highlights
Engagement Activities
Throughout April, our students have been actively engaged in exploring spring themes, with a special focus on ponds and the animals that live in and around them. They have also shown great excitement while learning about bugs and insects, even going on outdoor bug hunts during playtime. You can take a look at some of the bugs we’ve discovered so far in the display near the jacket hooks! The children have participated in a variety of hands-on art, science, and discovery activities centered around these topics, encouraging curiosity and exploration.
In addition, we have continued building our literacy skills by focusing on the letters W, Z, and I. Students have enjoyed fun, interactive letter activities as they work on their end-of-the-year letter books. During our weekly Alphatales stories, children listen for and identify words that begin with the focus letter. Together, we add these words to a large classroom letter display in our literacy center, complete with pictures, helping to strengthen vocabulary and support early reading development in a meaningful and engaging way.
Professional Development
Our preschool teachers are currently hard at work completing your child’s end-of-year portfolios, which will be shared with families sometime in May. These portfolios thoughtfully capture each child’s growth, learning experiences, and achievements throughout the year. In addition, our teaching team is actively planning a variety of fun, engaging summer activities and curriculum experiences designed to keep children curious, active, and excited about learning. We are looking forward to a joyful and enriching summer filled with exploration, creativity, and meaningful play.
Student Achievements
Our preschool students have been working incredibly hard and have nearly completed their second Life Skills Gumball Chart, which means they are getting close to earning a fun class celebration next month! Throughout the year, we have seen amazing growth as children continue to practice important life skills such as patience, caring, cooperation, flexibility, effort, and responsibility in their daily routines. We are especially proud of their increased independence as they take on new responsibilities, including our morning and afternoon routines of unpacking and packing their own lunch boxes, water bottles, and jackets into their bags. Their dedication and consistency have truly contributed to their success, and we are excited to celebrate all they have accomplished together.
Reminders
If your child will be absent from Happy Hall, please inform us via text, email, or through 1Core.
We kindly ask that children do not bring toys or personal items from home. These items can sometimes cause challenges with sharing or may get lost or damaged, which can be upsetting for little ones.
Please make sure all jackets are clearly labeled with your child’s name. Labeled jackets help us keep track of everyone’s belongings and prevent them from being mixed up or accidentally taken by another child. This helps ensure that each child’s jacket stays safe and returns home at the end of the day.
Please have your child at preschool by 9:00 AM, as important learning takes place from 9:00–10:30 AM, and late arrivals may miss key activities. If your child will be late, kindly let us know in advance. Lunch is at 11:30 AM, and nap begins at 12:30 PM—if arriving after 12:00 PM, please ensure your child has eaten beforehand. We also ask that children avoid late car naps so they are ready for rest time with their class and do not disrupt the group routine.
Looking Ahead
Monday May 25th - Closed for Memorial Day
Nichole Lancaster
Program Director
Happy Hall @ Ortega
Happy Hall @ Santa Inez
Director's Message
Teacher Appreciation Week is next week!
Next week, we are excited to celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week and recognize the incredible dedication, care, and hard work our staff brings each day to help our students learn and grow. This week-long celebration will run from Monday through Friday, and we’re looking forward to showing our educators just how valued they are by our school community.
Teachers will be posting a “My Favorite Things” list outside their classroom doors for families who would like ideas on how to share their appreciation. Whether it’s flowers, a small gift card, or a simple handwritten note, every gesture means so much and helps our teachers feel the love and support from the families they serve.
Program Highlights
Engagement Activities
This month, our classrooms were filled with curiosity, discovery, and meaningful conversations sparked by the world around us.
In celebration of Earth Day, teachers and children explored what it means to care for our planet through stories, hands-on art projects, and group discussions. The children and teachers shared ideas about how we can protect the Earth, such as recycling, using the compost bin, saving water, and taking care of plants and animals. These conversations grew into a deeper interest in the world beyond our own, leading to explorations of the solar system, the planets, and even how clouds and weather patterns work. What began as an Earth Day discussion quickly blossomed into a broader inquiry about our environment, space, and the natural systems that surround us every day.
As we move further into the spring season, the children have noticed many changes in our outdoor spaces. With warmer weather and more time outside, they’ve had frequent, up-close encounters with ladybugs, bees, and dragonflies in the yard. These moments have sparked a genuine fascination with insects and small creatures. Teachers have embraced this interest by incorporating books, observations, and conversations about bugs into the classroom. The children have been asking questions, observing carefully, and sharing their discoveries with one another. It’s been a wonderful reminder that some of the best learning opportunities happen spontaneously through everyday experiences.
In our older classrooms, children have been building on early math and language concepts in engaging, hands-on ways. They’ve been exploring numbers as quantities using cubes, blocks, and manipulatives to visually understand how numbers represent amounts. Teachers have also been introducing the differences between uppercase and lowercase letters through interactive activities and print awareness in the classroom environment. Alongside these academic foundations, children continue to strengthen both their fine motor skills through art, writing, and building activities, and their gross motor skills through outdoor play, movement games, and coordinated physical challenges.
This month has truly highlighted how children’s natural curiosity, combined with thoughtful guidance from their teachers, turns everyday moments into rich learning experiences.
Professional Development
Please mark your calendars: we will be closed on Friday, May 22 and Friday, June 5 for Staff Development Days. On these days, our team will be engaged in staff meetings, professional training, and curriculum planning.
This dedicated time together is especially important as we begin preparing for the rollout of our new curriculum, powered by Fueling Brains, and our gradual integration into Strata Learning Academy for the 2026–2027 school year.
While the name and tools may be evolving, what remains the same is what matters most: the same team, the same educators, and the same commitment to your family.
After 75 years, our program has grown into an even stronger model for early learning with deeper approaches and enhanced resources to support every child. This next chapter reflects that growth, and we’re excited for all that’s ahead.
Reminders
If your child will be absent, please be sure to notify your classroom through 1Core so teachers know who to expect each day. Thank you!
Looking Ahead
May 4 - May 8: Teacher Appreciation Week
Friday, May 22: Staff Development Day. School Closed
Monday, May 25: - Memorial Day. School Closed
Friday, June 5: - Staff Development Day. School Closed
Erin Olivas
Program Director
Happy Hall @ Santa Inez
Engagement Activities
As we finish up April and move into May, our final curriculum activities will focus on engaging and meaningful themes designed to spark curiosity and creativity.
May’s theme is Celebration, which serves as a joyful conclusion to our learning journey. This theme encourages students to reflect on their achievements and growth while nurturing a strong sense of accomplishment and pride in their progress.
Throughout the month, we will explore several reflection-based units:
Reflections – Students will look back on their experiences throughout the year, identifying what they have learned, challenges they have overcome, and goals they have achieved. This unit encourages self-awareness and pride in personal growth.
We’re in This Together – This unit highlights teamwork, friendships, and the importance of community. Students will reflect on how they have supported one another and contributed to a positive group environment.
One Step Closer – Students will focus on progress and goal-setting, recognizing how far they have come while thinking about the next steps in their learning journey. This helps build confidence and motivation for the future.
The Grand Finale – As a culminating unit, students will celebrate their accomplishments through activities that highlight their strengths, creativity, and growth, bringing the year to a meaningful and memorable close.
Happy Hall @ Green Hills
Director's Message
As we welcome the month of April, it’s hard to believe how quickly this school year has flown by. It feels like just yesterday we were getting to know new faces and settling into routines, and now we are seeing so much growth and confidence in each child. It has been a true joy to watch the children learn, build friendships, and reach new milestones along the way. Their curiosity, creativity, and enthusiasm continue to brighten our days, and we are so proud of all they have accomplished.
We love having each of them as part of our program and are grateful to be part of their journey. Thank you for allowing us to share in these special moments—we look forward to making the most of the remainder of the school year.
Program Highlights
Community Events
Summer Camp Registration – Now Open!
Please visit our website at camphappyhall.com for more information and to register.
Fall Registration Opening Soon!
Professional Development
On May 8th, our Summer Camp team will come together to prepare for the upcoming season. During this meeting, we will review key safety procedures and protocols, go over camp structure and daily routines, and clarify expectations for staff in their summer roles.
We will also focus on best practices for supporting children, fostering positive relationships, and creating a safe, engaging, and inclusive camp environment. This preparation is an important step in ensuring a smooth, well-organized, and successful summer program for both our staff and campers.
Reminders
If your child will be absent from Happy Hall, please inform us via text, email, or through 1Core.
Please remind students that toys, collectibles, and other personal items from home should not be brought to Happy Hall, as we cannot be held responsible for any lost, broken, or stolen items.
Come by to check our Lost and Found, if your child is missing a jacket or a water bottle!
Looking Ahead
Friday, May 1 – Last day for Summer Camp Early Bird Registration
Friday, May 1 – Minimum Day (12:30 PM dismissal)
Monday, May 25 - Memorial Day (CLOSED)
Friday, May 29 - Last day of school Minimum Day (12:30 Dismissal)
Tiffany Tamin
Program Director
Happy Hall @ Green Hills
Happy Hall @ Lomita Park
Director's Message
As we step into April, it’s amazing to see how quickly the school year has passed. It seems like just yesterday we were welcoming new faces and establishing routines, and now we’re witnessing tremendous growth and confidence in every child. It has truly been a pleasure to watch them learn, form friendships, and achieve important milestones. Their curiosity, creativity, and excitement continue to bring so much energy to our days, and we are incredibly proud of all they’ve accomplished.
We are grateful to have each child as part of our program and feel honored to be part of their journey. Thank you for trusting us to share in these meaningful moments—we look forward to finishing the school year strong together.
Program Highlights
Community Events
Summer Camp Registration – Now Open!
Please visit our website at camphappyhall.com for more information and to register.
Fall Registration Opening Soon!
Professional Development
On May 8th, our Summer Camp team will come together to prepare for the upcoming season. During this meeting, we will review key safety procedures and protocols, go over camp structure and daily routines, and clarify expectations for staff in their summer roles.
We will also focus on best practices for supporting children, fostering positive relationships, and creating a safe, engaging, and inclusive camp environment. This preparation is an important step in ensuring a smooth, well-organized, and successful summer program for both our staff and campers.
Reminders
If your child will be absent from Happy Hall, please inform us via text, email, or through 1Core.
For any unexcused absences/early pick-ups, please be sure to fill out the Attendance Form in a timely manner.
Please remind students that toys, collectibles, and other personal items from home should not be brought to Happy Hall, as we cannot be held responsible for any lost, broken, or stolen items.
Come by to check if your child is missing a jacket or a water bottle, our lost and found is growing and will be donated at the end of the month!
Looking Ahead
Friday, May 1 – Last day for Summer Camp Early Bird Registration
Friday, May 1 – Minimum Day (12:30 PM dismissal)
Monday, May 25 - Memorial Day (CLOSED)
Friday, May 29 - Last day of school Minimum Day (12:30 Dismissal)
Conner Chicoine
Program Director
Happy Hall @ Lomita Park
Happy Hall @ Meadows
Director's Message
As we approach the end of the school year, I’ve been reflecting on the incredible growth the children have made. Many of our fifth graders will be moving on to middle school, and while this transition is always bittersweet, this group holds a special place in my heart. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of your child’s journey over the years—watching them learn, grow, and achieve their goals has been a privilege.
In these final weeks, we will spend time reflecting on what we’ve learned and celebrating the progress each child has made. We will also focus on how to continue applying the life skills and strategies we’ve practiced throughout the year as they move forward.
We will wrap up the year with our End-of-Year Family Potluck on May 13th from 5:00–6:30 PM. I hope you can join us as we come together to celebrate, enjoy good food, and appreciate the strong sense of community we’ve built.
Program Highlights
Community Events
May 21, 2026 - Fifth Grade Party 2:30–5:00
A special celebration for 5th graders only
May 13, 2026 - End of Year Family Potluck 5:00–6:30
Please join us as we come together to celebrate and say farewell to the school year.
Summer Camp Registration – Now Open!
Please visit our website at camphappyhall.com for more information and to register.
Fall Registration Opening Soon!
Student Achievements
We encourage you to take some time to check in with your child and talk about their experience at Happy Hall this year—what they really enjoyed, what made them feel proud, and what they might like to see change or improve in the future. These conversations help children reflect on their growth and feel heard as valued members of our community. We are incredibly proud of all they have accomplished this year and the progress they have made.
Professional Development
On May 8th, our Summer Camp team will gather to prepare for the upcoming season. During this meeting, we will review important safety procedures and protocols, discuss camp dynamics and daily routines, and outline expectations for staff in their summer roles. We will also take time to align on best practices for supporting children, building positive relationships, and creating a safe, engaging, and inclusive camp environment. This preparation helps ensure a smooth, organized, and successful summer program for both staff and children.
Reminders
Please take a moment to check the lost and found, as we will be donating all unclaimed items after May 22.
We kindly ask that you notify us in advance if your child will not be attending on any day. This is especially helpful for planning purposes on May 1 and May 29, as both are minimum days.
We will also be closed on May 25 in observance of Memorial Day.
Thank you for your continued support and partnership as we finish the school year together.
Looking Ahead
Thursday, April 30 – Meadows School Open House
Friday, May 1 – Minimum Day (12:30 PM dismissal)
Friday, May 1 – Last day for Summer Camp Early Bird Registration
Friday, May 29 - Last day of school Minimum Day (12:30 Dismissal)
Marina Hamack
Program Director
Happy Hall @ Meadows
Happy Hall @ Ortega
Director's Message
As we approach the end of the school year, it’s been a meaningful time to reflect on the growth, curiosity, and resilience our students have shown. This season is always a special one—filled with both celebration and anticipation—as we look back on how much each child has learned and look ahead to the opportunities to come. April has brought a wonderful sense of energy to Happy Hall at Ortega, with spring inspiring creativity, discovery, and hands-on learning experiences throughout our program. In these final weeks, we will continue to nurture the skills and confidence students have built, while also celebrating their progress and accomplishments. We are truly grateful for the continued support of our families and staff in creating such a positive and enriching environment for every child.
Program Highlights
Community Events
May 27th, 2026 - End of the year Ice Cream Party 2:30-3:30
Summer Camp Registration – Now Open!
Please visit our website at camphappyhall.com for more information and to register.
Fall Registration Opening Soon!
Student Achievements
We are so proud of the growth and commitment our students have shown this year. Their participation in a variety of engaging activities has reflected creativity, collaboration, and an eagerness to learn. We also encourage families to connect with their children about their time at Happy Hall—discussing favorite moments, proud accomplishments, and ideas for the future. These conversations help support reflection, build confidence, and remind students that their voices are an important part of our community.
Professional Development
On May 8th, our Summer Camp team will come together to get ready for the upcoming season. During this time, we will go over key safety procedures and protocols, review daily schedules and camp routines, and clarify expectations for staff in their summer roles. We will also focus on strategies for supporting children, fostering positive relationships, and creating a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment for all. This preparation plays an important role in ensuring a well-organized and successful summer experience for both our staff and campers.
Reminders
Please take a moment to check the lost and found, as any unclaimed items will be donated after May 29.
We kindly ask that you inform us in advance if your child will be absent on any day.
Please note that we will be closed on May 25 in observance of Memorial Day.
Thank you for your continued support and partnership as we wrap up the school year together.
Looking Ahead
Friday, May 1 – Last day for Summer Camp Early Bird Registration
Monday, May 25- Closed for Memorial Day
Thursday, June 4 - Last Day of School
Nichole Lancaster
Program Director
Happy Hall @ Ortega
Happy Hall @ Spring Valley
Director's Message
As April comes to a close, I want to share how much I’ve enjoyed meeting everyone in my new role as Site Manager. It has been a wonderful start, and I’m grateful to be part of such a welcoming community.
This month, our students explored themes of caring for the Earth in celebration of Earth Day and the spring season through creative art projects and games. Our group 3 has started a weekly STEM program led by St. Ignatius College Prep volunteers, where they participated in hands-on activities learning about energy. It’s been inspiring to see their curiosity and thoughtfulness in action.
With the school year coming to an end in May, we’re looking forward to making this final month fun, meaningful, and full of great memories.
Thank you for your continued support and for being a valued part of our Happy Hall community!
Program Highlights
Community Events
Summer Camp Registration – Now Open!
Please visit our website at camphappyhall.com for more information and to register.
Fall Registration Opening Soon!
Student Achievements
We are incredibly proud of our students who participated in the school’s talent show. It was a joyful celebration of creativity and confidence. Students performed a variety of acts, from singing and dancing to comedy and magic, impressing the audience with their talent and courage. They practiced hard this whole month and it showed in the success of the show.
Professional Development
On May 8th, our Summer Camp team will come together to prepare for the upcoming season. During this meeting, we will review key safety procedures and protocols, go over camp structure and daily routines, and clarify expectations for staff in their summer roles.
We will also focus on best practices for supporting children, fostering positive relationships, and creating a safe, engaging, and inclusive camp environment. This preparation is an important step in ensuring a smooth, well-organized, and successful summer program for both our staff and campers.
Reminders
Attendance/ Policy Reminders: Gentle reminder about general policies or attendance policies and encouragement for consistent participation. *Note: If including notes about UPP policies, be sure to specify!
Looking Ahead
Friday, May 1 – Last day for Summer Camp Early Bird Registration
Friday, May 1 – Minimum Day (12:30 PM dismissal)
Monday, May 25 - Memorial Day (CLOSED)
Friday, May 29 - Last day of school Minimum Day (12:30 Dismissal)
Charisma Lapitan
Program Director
Happy Hall @ Spring Valley
Happy Hall @ Sunset Ridge
Director's Message
April has been a vibrant and exciting month here at Happy Hall @ Sunset Ridge! As spring is in full bloom, our focus has been on growth, discovery, and creativity. Students have enjoyed engaging, hands-on activities that encourage exploration and curiosity. We are grateful to our families and staff for continuing to foster such a supportive and enriching environment for our students.
Program Highlights
Engagement Activities
This month, students explored themes of spring and renewal, including hands-on activities focused on pollination and pollinators. They learned how plants grow and the important role that bees, butterflies, and other pollinators play in our ecosystem. Through interactive lessons, crafts, and outdoor observations, students strengthened their understanding of science while developing a deeper appreciation for nature.
Our Spring Camp was a wonderful success! Students participated in a variety of fun and enriching activities, including arts and crafts, group games, and team-building exercises. It was a great opportunity for students to build friendships and create lasting memories.
Community Events
April brought exciting opportunities for students to come together and celebrate the season. Through group projects and collaborative activities, students continued to build strong connections and a sense of community within our program.
Student Achievements
We are incredibly proud of our students for their continued enthusiasm and dedication. Their participation in spring-themed and pollination activities showcased creativity, teamwork, and a positive attitude toward learning.
A special congratulations to our Star Students of the Month Aditi and Bella, we celebrate their hard work, kindness, and the positive example they set for their peers.
Professional Development
Our staff remained committed to professional growth by engaging in trainings focused on enhancing student engagement and creating inclusive, interactive learning environments. These efforts allow us to better support each child’s individual needs.
Reminders
Attendance / Policy Reminders:
Consistent attendance is essential for your child’s success and helps them stay connected to daily learning experiences. Please continue to review general program policies.
If applicable, please refer to UPP policy guidelines for any specific requirements or updates.
Laura Barraza
Program Director
Happy Hall @ Sunset Ridge
Happy Hall @ Taylor Middle
Director's Message
Hi Families! As we move through April, we’ve loved seeing our students learn through hands-on experiences and meaningful activities. This month, our students explored cooking projects, building confidence and independence in the kitchen while having fun together. We also celebrated Earth Day by creating seed pucks to support pollination, helping our students connect with nature and understand the importance of caring for our environment.
Thank you for being a part of our community and for your continued support. We look forward to all that the rest of the season has in store!
Program Highlights
Student Achievements
Our students showed great commitment to positive behavior this month, and we were proud to celebrate their efforts with a special ice cream party! This fun reward recognized their responsibility, kindness, and teamwork throughout the program.
Professional Development
There were no staff trainings held during the month of April. However, staff who will be working in our summer camp program are scheduled to attend a training on May 8. During this time, we will review safety procedures and go over important protocols specific to summer camp to ensure a safe and successful season for all.
Reminders
Attendance: If your student will be absent from our program, please call or text 650.609.1117, email, or log in the absence on the 1Core Family App.
Phone Policy: Students must keep their phones in their backpacks during program hours. If you need to contact your child, please call our work phone, and we will ensure they receive the message.
Looking Ahead
Friday, May 1 - Camp Happy Hall Early Bird ends
Friday, May 8 - Minimum Day 12:18PM Dismissal
Monday, May 25 - Memorial Day (CLOSED)
Ariel Zipagan
Program Director
Happy Hall @ Taylor Middle
Thank You!
Thank you for your continued support and for entrusting us with your child’s care and growth. Your partnership allows us to create a nurturing and engaging environment where every child can thrive.