Today marked the culmination of months of hard work, innovation, and exploration by the scholars, staff, and families of M. Agnes Jones Elementary!Thank you to everyone who supported our amazing scholars as they explored new technology platforms and submitted their work💙💛💙
Yesterday, the GA Senate voted unanimously in favor of the House version of SB 148, which incorporates language from HB 127 that increases the number of sick days an educator may use for personal leave from three to five. SB 148 now awaits the Governor's signature.
Technology Fair @APSMAJ_Elem Scholars were excited to share their designs with staff and volunteers! Another great day at MAJ! Thank you @msbrownstreams for a memorable event!
5th Grade Scholars @APSMAJ_Elem hard at work creating an Animated Short for the Technology Fair! They thought they were learning from me but I truly became the student! No peeking, stay tuned!
10 Things Educators Need During a School Break and Why
1. Sleep without an alarm
Your nervous system has been living on adrenaline and cortisol. Deep rest helps reset the brain restore emotional regulation and improve memory mood and immune function.
2. Silence and nothingness
The brain needs quiet to downshift from constant decision making. Mental stillness reduces cognitive overload and allows the prefrontal cortex to come back online.
3. A non rushed bathroom visit
Having to suppress basic bodily needs keeps the brain in a low level stress state. Unrushed bathroom access restores a sense of safety dignity and control which directly calms the nervous system.
4. Laughter that makes your stomach hurt
Laughter releases endorphins and dopamine which naturally reduce stress and anxiety. It also reminds your brain and body that joy still exists outside of survival mode.
5. Connection with people who do not need anything from you
Educators give all day long. Low demand relationships restore emotional energy and protect against compassion fatigue.
6. A slow bath or shower in the morning
Warm water activates the parasympathetic nervous system lowering cortisol and muscle tension. A slow start to the day tells the brain you are safe and not in crisis mode.
7. Food that is eaten slowly and actually enjoyed
Mindful eating supports digestion stabilizes blood sugar and calms the nervous system. Your body deserves nourishment not rushed fuel.
8. Time without solving problems
Constant problem solving keeps the brain in threat detection mode. Breaks from decision making allow the nervous system to recalibrate and reduce mental exhaustion.
9. Reminders that you are more than your job
Identity overload increases burnout risk. Engaging in hobbies or creativity activates different neural pathways and restores a sense of wholeness.
10. A true break with compassion for yourself
Compassion fatigue is real. Prolonged caring without recovery depletes emotional reserves. Rest and self kindness rebuild resilience empathy and long term sustainability.
Final Thought
School breaks are not a luxury. They are neurological and emotional repair time. Rest is not quitting. Rest is what allows educators to return regulated connected and able to keep doing the work that matters so deeply.
The Science & Engineering Fair @APSMAJ_Elem was truly inspiring! Our students proudly showcased their projects while our amazing partners and volunteers served as judges. Thank you all for helping make it a STEAMtastic day at MAJ!
Inspiring day at Chattahoochee Hills Charter Principal Patrick Mohammad shared a powerful vision for a sustainable, agricultural open campus for K–8 learners. Dr. Edwards continues to guide APS STEAM w/ purpose, keeping us focused on what meaningful STEAM education looks like.💖
Check out these dynamic leaders in environmental stewardship. I recommend this program. Become a citizen scientist and help your community. @stemrific@apssteam#stem#urbanheatatl https://t.co/CU3iq0NQRW