---

January 20, 2026

Principal's Message

Dear Sea Lion Families, 

As we move into the heart of the school year, January and February are especially important months for student learning. These weeks often kick off new units of study and consistent attendance makes a significant difference in helping students stay on track academically and socially.

We understand that winter illnesses can make this time of year challenging. However, when students miss school, they often miss essential instruction that is difficult to fully replicate, even if it’s one or two days.

Being at school every day also supports strong routines, friendships, and confidence. Students who attend regularly are more connected, feel more comfortable in class, and are better prepared for upcoming assessments and spring learning goals.

Healthy Habits to Support Strong Attendance:

Families can help keep students healthy and in school by practicing simple daily habits:

• Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the restroom.
• Remind students to cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow.
• Make sure children get plenty of sleep to support strong immune systems.
• Provide healthy meals and snacks, including fruits and vegetables.

We appreciate your partnership in making daily attendance a priority whenever possible. Together, we can ensure our students make the most of these critical winter months of learning.

OUTDOOR SCIENCE SCHOOL PARENT INFORMATION NIGHT:

Please join the Outdoor Science School (OSS) Parent Information Night in the McGaugh Auditorium on Thursday, January 29th at 5:00 PM. Please make arrangements to attend this meeting if you are curious about learning more about Outdoor Science School at ECOS Institute, the schedule of events, and key information to make the most of the experience. We will also discuss the options we have to pay for this memorable event. You can visit the ECOS Institute website to get some information prior to the meeting. Mark your calendars!

Outdoor Science School Parent Information Night
McGaugh Auditorium
Thursday, January 29th
5:00 PM - 5:45 PM

Seal Beach Police Department INFORMATION NIGHT:

UPCOMING REMINDERS AND EVENTS YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS:

• 1/19 – No School: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day 
• 1/23 – Jog-A-Thon
• 1/26 – 100th Day of School
• 1/26 – First Day of Spring LAEF classes
• 1/28 – Family Math Night 
• 1/29 – OSS Parent Information Night 
• 1/30 – PTA Room Parent Meeting
• 1/30 – Start with Hello Day  
• 2/1 – Project SEEK Movie at the Bay Theatre
• 2/3 – PTA Meeting 
• 2/4 – College Day 
• 2/5 – Open House 
• 2/5 – STEAM Fair 
• 2/6 – No School – Teacher Learning Day
• 2/6 – Project SEEK Movie @ The Bay Theater 
• 2/9 – Book Fair Week 

Ms. Wendy Wood, M.Ed. ​
McGaugh Elementary School Principal
wwood@losal.org
(562) 799-4560