EC Principal Letter
Dear ANCS Elementary Families,
First, I would like to personally congratulate Nicole King on being named the next principal of our elementary campus. I have had the privilege of working closely with Nicole for the past eight years and have seen firsthand the dedication, passion, and care she brings to her work every day. Her enthusiasm for our school community and her commitment to students are truly remarkable. Nicole approaches every decision with students at the center, always considering what will best support their learning and well-being. I am confident that our school will continue to thrive under her leadership. Nicole is not only an exceptional educator and leader, but also a truly wonderful person, and we are incredibly fortunate to have her leading our elementary campus.
With the arrival of Daylight Saving Time this week, we may have all noticed feeling a little more tired than usual. We have definitely witnessed this here at school. When we “spring forward,” we effectively lose an hour of sleep, and our bodies need time to adjust. Research shows that even small disruptions to sleep schedules can affect attention, mood, and learning. Studies of school-age children have found that after the spring time change, students often experience reduced sleep and increased daytime sleepiness, which can impact focus, memory, and mood during the school day.
Although having extended daylight in the evening can make it tempting to stay up later, maintaining a consistent bedtime routine is one of the best ways to help children adjust. Our bodies operate on a circadian rhythm, the internal clock that regulates sleep and wake cycles. When that rhythm is disrupted by time changes or inconsistent bedtimes, it can take several days for the body to reset. Research from pediatric sleep experts shows that children may take up to a week or more to fully adjust to the shift to Daylight Saving Time.
Over the next couple of weeks, I encourage you to prioritize consistent evening routines. While it’s fun to spend time outside in the evenings, protecting sleep routines helps children arrive at school focused, energized, and ready to learn.
Here are some tips that can help children adjust more easily to the time change:
- 🌙 Keep a consistent bedtime and wake time, even on weekends if possible.
- 📵 Limit screens for at least 30–60 minutes before bedtime, as the stimulation from screens can interfere with the body’s sleep signals.
- 📚 Maintain a calming bedtime routine such as reading, bathing, or quiet activities.
- ☀️ Encourage outdoor activity during the day, which helps regulate children’s internal clocks.
- 🕰️ Move bedtime earlier by 10–15 minutes for a few nights if your child seems especially tired while adjusting.
Thank you for your continued partnership to support our students. A good night’s sleep is one of the most important components for learning, positive behavior, and overall well-being.
Wishing you well,
Lara
Lara Zelski
Lara Zelski began working at ANCS in 2007. Previously, she worked at the Howard School and taught art, Spanish, reading and math. She taught 6th, 4th, and 2nd in DeKalb County. She taught 4th and 5th grade in Decatur and then moved to Title One reading and math instruction for 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders. She taught 5th grade at the ANCS elementary campus for two years.
