SNACS Family Newsletter | May 2026
It’s hard to believe we are in the final full month of the school year! May is always a special time filled with celebrations, reflection, and excitement as we wrap up another year of learning and growth. Thank you for being such an important part of our school community!
From the CEO’s Desk 🖋️
Dear SNACS School Community,
As we head into the final month of this school year, it’s clear that SNACS is something truly special. From our youngest Pre-K learners to our 8th graders preparing for their next chapter, this year has been defined by growth, innovation, and a strong sense of community. We have memories of a lifetime to cherish from this school year: from funny moments to everyday learning in the classrooms, fall farm and ranch days, Harvest Festival, Angel tree, Spirit Days, Family Engagement Nights, the dental clinics, Parent-Teacher Conferences, Reading Week events, Published Books and Author’s Debut, and our upcoming Field Day, Spring Fling, and graduation ceremonies.
To our students: you embraced learning in ways that go far beyond the traditional classroom. Through our PLAY Model, you explored, created, collaborated, and discovered with curiosity and confidence. You took ownership of your learning through our PLAY Interactive Choice Board, making decisions, setting goals, and engaging in personalized pathways that reflect who you are as learners. That kind of ownership isn’t easy—but you stepped up, and it shows.
This year also brought exciting improvements to how we learn and play together. Thanks to the folks at MULE fencing, our entire school is now safer for our students to learn and grow. Our elementary students now enjoy a new playground turf designed for soccer, while our middle school students have a dedicated space for volleyball and basketball—reminders that learning, movement, and teamwork all matter. These spaces are already filled with energy, connection, and school pride.
Beyond the classroom, our community came alive through meaningful events. Every student showcased their published books at our Best Authors Debut event at Barnes & Noble. We enjoyed our favorite traditions in our Harvest Festival, Farm and Ranch Days, family breakfasts, and other family engagement events—these moments strengthened the bonds that make SNACS more than just a school.
We are also proud to share that our work is being recognized beyond our campus. This year, SNACS earned five EdTech awards connected to the PLAY Interactive Choice Board and our innovative learning approach. I am honored two awards recognized my leadership in innovation and trendsetting in educational technology, and three highlighted our systems as leading solutions in learning management, personalized learning, and classroom management. While awards are never the goal, they affirm the impact of what our students and educators are doing every day.
To our 8th graders: you leave behind a legacy of leadership and adaptability. You’ve experienced a model of learning that challenges you to think differently—and you’re ready for what comes next. Carry that mindset with you.
To our families: your partnership is the foundation of everything we do. Thank you for showing up, engaging, and trusting us as we continue to rethink and expand the SNACS community.
To our SNACS Team: your dedication and commitment to the SNACS model, students, and families is the ultimate testament to your love for learning in our small school community. Thank you for all your hard work. Because of you, SNACS is not just a place where students learn—it’s a place where they grow into capable, confident individuals who are prepared to shape their future.
As we head into summer, take time to rest, reflect, and enjoy the moments that matter most. We’re excited for what’s ahead and grateful for all we’ve accomplished together.
With appreciation,
Dr. Regan
Important Dates and Reminders 📅
May
- May 13 – Kindergarten Enrollment event on campus from 1:30-2:15pm
- May 25 – No school and campus closed in observance of Memorial Day
- May 29 from 5 to 8 pm – Spring Fling. More information to come!
June
- June 1 – Re-enrollment contest ends
- June 2 – Graduation for Pre K at 10 am, Kindergarten at 12 pm, and 8th Grade at 2 pm. More information to follow!
Keep an eye out for any event changes or additional information sent out via ClassDojo and our Blackboard notifications. As always, our full calendar is available at www.snacs.org/calendar.
Earth Day in Action: Caring for our Community
This year, in honor of Earth Day, our school came together to celebrate despite the rainy weather. Teachers took their time inside and outside the classroom to teach their students about the Earth and why we must take care of it. The weather didn’t slow anyone down; instead, it highlighted the dedication that makes our school special.
Our Kindergartners have been working hard to learn about the plant life cycles and what living things need to grow. For Earth Day, they did a hands-on activity in which they planted seeds in their own containers, recycled from our school lunches. Each student planted their own, helping reinforce responsibility and patience as they care for the plants and watch them grow over the next few weeks.
We would like to thank Ms. Ingalls and Ms. White for their efforts in securing fresh plants for our school’s outdoor planters. Their contribution, along with the contribution of a local construction company, helped make this day possible and is a great example of how teamwork can strengthen our school community. As a school, we must take care of the environment and continue to make it look its best we can. Improving our school environment allows our students and school community to take more pride in the school and reminds us of the importance of caring for shared spaces.
These experiences help reinforce different skills the classes have been working on in their social-emotional lessons. Students showed responsibility by caring for their plants, teamwork by working together, and perseverance by continuing their efforts despite the rainy weather. These are the skills that help our students grow into thoughtful, caring, and reliable individuals.
As we get ready to close out the year, it is important to appreciate the world around us and continue to grow together as a community. Earth Day was a great way to beautify our school while instilling traits in our students that will follow them throughout their lives.
Mental Health Awareness Month
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. This month, we want to highlight the importance of emotional well-being for our students and families. At school, we support students academically and socially, helping them build strong Social Emotional Learning (SEL) skills that will last a lifetime.
This month, our lower elementary classes (K-2nd) will focus on identifying and expressing emotions, helping students learn to recognize and express their emotions in healthy ways. Our upper elementary classes (3rd-5th) will focus on building positive relationships where they practice kindness, teamwork, and communication. During these lessons, we will work on problem-solving skills, which can help them navigate through different challenges calmly. Lastly, our middle schoolers will work on self- regulation and creating a growth mindset. These skills will help students practice calming strategies, such as deep breathing and taking breaks, while encouraging perseverance and learning from mistakes.
At-Home Tips for Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health
There are many different ways parents and guardians can help support their child’s emotional well-being. Small, everyday moments can make a big difference. One thing parents can try is creating a space to talk about feelings by asking simple questions such as “what was the best and hardest part of your day?” Another thing they can do is practice calm-down strategies like deep breathing, counting to 10, or taking a quiet break together to help your child learn ways to manage big emotions. Keeping a consistent routine can help children feel safe and secure. It is also important to encourage a growth mindset by reminding your child that mistakes are a part of learning. Lastly, don’t forget to unplug from time to time and stay connected. Too much screen time can impact people’s mood and sleep. Try planning some family time instead such as going for a walk, playing games, or even reading together. If your child seems overwhelmed, withdrawn, or has ongoing changes in behavior, it may be time to reach out for additional support from a counselor or trusted professional.
Mental Health Resources for Families
If your child or family needs additional support, these trusted resources are available:
Immediate Help (24/7)
- Call or text 988 – National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (free, confidential support)
- Nevada Crisis Support Line: 775-784-8090 (24/7 local support)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained counselor
Local Support & Family Resources
- NAMI Western Nevada – Free support groups, classes, and family resources
- NAMI Nevada– Education, advocacy, and helpline support
- Nevada Warmline: 775-241-4212 (non-crisis peer support)
- Nevada 211: Dial 2-1-1 for help finding local services (housing, counseling, food, etc.)
Support for Children & Teens
- Text START to 741741 for youth crisis support
- Teen text/chat support services available through NAMI programs
- Talk with your child’s school counselor or pediatrician for local referrals
Local Care Options
- Reno Behavioral Healthcare Hospital– Mental health services and assessments
- Northern Nevada Adult Mental Health Services (NNAMHS)– State-supported care
For in-school support and referrals, parents can contact the front office at (775)677-4500. Just ask to speak with Ms. Emma. Parents can also email our family engagement team at familyengagement@snacs.org for assistance.
Re-Enrollment Time! ⏰
Spots are filling quickly, so don’t miss your chance to secure your child’s place at SNACS for next year! Staying at SNACS means your child will continue to learn in a familiar, supportive environment with trusted teachers, strong friendships, and the momentum they’ve already built.
At SNACS, we are committed to helping every child grow academically and personally. Our mission is to accelerate learning and support student success through high-quality, standards-based instruction that is personalized for each learner. Using our PLAY® model, students learn through hands-on exploration, meaningful choices, and engaging activities that make learning exciting and purposeful. The PLAY® approach is designed to maximize teacher support, student engagement, and academic achievement. Every student has a Personalized Learning Plan that helps teachers understand their current skill levels in each subject and set clear goals throughout the year. Classrooms are thoughtfully designed to look like a discovery museum, with standards-based learning centers that encourage curiosity, independence, and active learning every day.
Last Chance to Enter the Re-Enrollment Raffle
Complete your student’s re-enrollment and submit your confirmation by June 1, 2026, to be entered to win exciting prizes!
How to enter:
- Complete your student’s re-enrollment.
- Take a screenshot of the completion screen on Infinite Campus or confirmation email.
- Submit your screenshot using our Re-Enrollment Google Form.
Re-enroll now in a few easy steps:
- Visit this link
- Log in with your parent portal credentials.
- Click “More” > “Online Registration” > “Existing Student Registration.”
- Make sure the registration year shows as 2026–2027, and begin!
- Complete each step until you submit.
**Any updates to medical, legal, or contact info require in-person forms.**
If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact the school office at 775-677-4500—we’re happy to help!
Around the Community
Family Fun
- Family Health Festival
- May 20 from 3-6
- Where: Neil Road Recreational Center
- Cost: Free
- What to expect: food resources, kids’ books, health screenings, clothing, and community services
- River Festival
- May 29-May 31
- Where: Idlewild Park
- 3 Day Pass- $15 for adults Free for kids 17 and under
- What to expect: Kayak competitions, Kids zone & activities, Food trucks & vendors
- North Valleys Game Night!
- When: May 8th at 3:30-5:30
- Where: North Valley’s Library
- Cost: Free
- Join the local library for some family fun at Game Night! Get ready for an evening filled with laughter, snacks, and fun with your neighbors. You can bring a game to share, too!
- Paws 2 Read (All Ages)
- When: May 9th from 2PM-3PM
- Where: North Valley Library
- Cost: Free
- Reading program for children of all ages proudly presented by Paws 4 Love. Friendly dogs lend a loving, non-judgmental ear to beginning readers.
- Crafternoon: Patchwork Cardboard Houses (All Ages)
- When: May 12 from 3:30PM-5:30PM
- Where: North Valleys Library
- Cost: Free
- Using scraps of leftover paper and buttons kids will create their own patchwork cardboard houses.
- Do- it- Yourself Sting Art (Ages 7 and up)
- When: May 2/ 3 from 10:30-4:30
- Where: The Discovery Museum
- Cost: Members- Free Nonmembers: Free with admission
- Visit The Shop to create the perfect decoration for spring. Using hammers and nails, you can create a spring-inspired shape to trace with yarn. Best of all, what you make is yours to take home!
Literacy and Arts Events
- Kids Crafts: Doodle Your Soul
- When: May 09, 2026, 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM PDT
- Where: Reno Public Market, 299 E Plumb Ln, Reno, NV 89502, USA
- Cost: Free
- RSVP and adult supervision are required
- Doodle Your Soul is back with their famously awesome and creative Kids’ Arts & Crafts Class. Adult supervision is required for the duration of the class.
- Love Succs- Painting Event Ages 7 and Up
- When: May 9, 2026 at 1PM
- Where: Daddy’s Tacos NV , 4840 Mill St #8, Reno, NV, 89502, United States
- Cost: $39 per person
- Enjoy step-by-step instructions on how to paint a succulent, and as always creativity is encouraged. Get there an hour early to order some delicious food before you start painting.
STEM Happenings
- STEAM: Flower Anatomy (Ages 7 and up with an adult)
- When: May 5th from 3:30PM-5:30PM
- Where: North Valleys Library
- In this fun dissection activity, participants will explore the anatomy of flowers, identify their parts, and learn how they support a healthy ecosystem.
- STEAM: Nature in a Bottle (Ages 7 and up with an adult)
- When: May 19th from 3:30PM-5:30PM
- Where: North Valleys Library
- Create a mini greenhouse using recycled plastic bottles, soil, and seeds to explore how plants grow in a controlled environment.
- Invent a Spaceship (All Ages)
- When: May 2/3 and May 9/10 from 10:30-4:30
- Where: Discovery Museum
- Cost: Member- Free Nonmember- Included with admission
- Visit Spark!Lab Smithsonian to invent a spacecraft using recycled materials, considering things like how it will be powered, where it will travel, who will be at the controls, and other important aspects of the mission.
Summertime Adventures
As the school year comes to an end, it is important that students still have the opportunity to keep their minds engaged. Summer camp is a great way to do this. Summer camp offers hands-on activities, outdoor play, and opportunities to make new friends that will help benefit children in the long run. It will help keep them engaged in a structured environment that will help reduce the loss of learning and keep them ready for the following school year. Here are a few affordable options:
- Weekly cost is about $50/week + $20 membership
- Offers financial assistance + no child turned away for inability to pay
- Includes field trips, sports, art, and structured daily care
- Ages 5-18
City of Reno “Sierra Kids” Camps
- Run by City of Reno Parks & Rec
- $150 per week
- Scholarships/fee assistance available based on income
- Typical activities: parks, games, field trips, arts & crafts
- Ages 5-12`
- STEM + outdoor nature camps
- $395 before discounts
- Offers scholarships and financial aid (ask directly)
- Day camps + overnight options
- Ages 6-12
UNR Engineering Summer Camp (Ages 12-14)
- Engineering Everywhere (June 22 – 26)
- $400 (includes 1 full-day off-campus field trip, 1 catered lunch, and daily snacks)
- Design, build and test projects, learn from the experts, experience engineering in action, collaborate on real-world problems
- Scholarship available through the application
- Invention & Innovation Camp (July 13 – 17)
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- $400 (includes 1 full-day off-campus field trip, 1 catered lunch, and daily snacks)
- Throughout the camp, participants will engage in hands-on design challenges, explore real case studies of groundbreaking inventions and learn how intellectual property protects creative work.
- Scholarship available through the application
UNR Kids Summer Camp (Ages 7-14)
- Join the Wolf Pack by attending KIDS University from June 15- August 7. They have a variety of camps offered on multiple weeks. The week-long camps are STEAM-based and include art, acting, engineering, world cultures, mythology, coding, Harry Potter, space, robotics, forensics, healthcare, science, writing and animals.
- Cost: $260 (There are no discounts or promotions and payment in full is due at the time of registration.)
Discover Museum Summer Camps (Ages 6-12)
- Get ready to create, discover, and explore with Camp Discovery. This summer, you can choose from more than 35 different camps for students entering 1st through 7th grade. Camp Discovery begins each day at 9:00am and ends at 4:00pm. Early drop-off at 8:00am and late pick up until 5:30pm are available.
- Cost: Member- $290 Nonmembers- $315
- For assistance with Camp Discovery registration, please e-mail camps@nvdm.org or call 775-398-5942.