The Ana Grace Project

11/07/2025

It’s been a long week for so many — teachers, families, and kiddos alike.

Thank you to our incredible staff for modeling self-awareness and emotional regulation for our kids — for creating calm, connected spaces where they feel seen, safe, and supported. You’re teaching so much more than lessons.

We see you. We appreciate you. Take a deep breath this weekend — you’ve earned it.

Amanda P.

Thank you. The Regulated Classroom, for this important reminder!

Happy Friday! No wonder you are tired! Your nervous system didn't just teach this week, it co-regulated, scanned for safety, held space for emotions, and stayed regulated through chaos. Over and over and over. ⚡

11/05/2025

Ana Grace loved group hugs.

LOVED.

“Amanda P.” who writes on this page? Who manages a lot of things for me and has her own full time job and family?

This is an image of her and her team from last night, below. High ballerina bun I would recognize anywhere. I’ve known her for twenty years! She won her board of ed seat!!! Congratulations to all who ran. Congratulations to people who engage- trying to make the world better for all neighbors.

In Amanda’s words to me this morning, “for me…this is about shared community values and commitments. To setting priories and ensuring access to high quality public education…”

I am sharing because this too is what I believe. And because I am proud of my friend. This is not coasting time. This is hard work time. Let’s go.

We love you, Amanda. And thank you for everything. On so many levels.

And thank you, CT, for showing strong. Those of us who love this state will always work for love to win.

Group hug.

NMG 💜

11/04/2025

💜

11/04/2025

I pray today is a day where your values and your vote connect.

💜NMG

11/04/2025

After the shooting that ended our daughter’s life- so many things happened.

One thing that stands out on this day is the advisor who suggested I straighten my hair because it would look better on TV and the group who handed me a script.

🗣️ Curly hair is fine for TV and survivors don’t need scripts.

What a difference time can make. What a difference holding on to faith can make. What a difference holding true to your values makes!

Yesterday was my 2 year anniversary at the School of Public Health! Where I read my own words. I wear my hair the way God gave it to me. And I get to elevate survivor stories among other things on my own podcast.

I am doing all the things. And I am doing them embodied. With integrity.

You can listen to me interview survivors of gun violence here: https://ysph.yale.edu/about-school-of-public-health/communications-public-relations/podcasts/shared-humanity/

Jesus gave me my own TV!

Thank you for listening to their stories. Incredibly grateful for the people I have met here at Yale who believe in ending gun violence and believe in survivors.

(And whatever has not killed me is going in my tell all one day- I swear!)

NMG 💜

(And I still have time to be Ana and Isaiah’s mom. First. And do the precious and necessary work of The Ana Grace Project).

11/03/2025

In case the first group of final finishers was not inspirational enough- here are more.

And here are more people who waited to cheer for people who finished their race.

Both are needed.

NMG 💜

11/03/2025

This is The Ana Grace Project with a gentle reminder to finish your race.

NMG 💜

11/03/2025

Welcome to Monday.

As a 5th grade teacher, I love seeing my students play outside together—it’s one of the best parts of the school day! But did you know that playing outside is about more than just having fun? It actually helps students learn, grow, and become better friends. Recently our 5th graders earned a trip to the park to play. We all had a blast!

First of all, outdoor play helps our brains recharge. After working hard on math problems or writing essays, everyone needs a break. Running, jumping, or even just walking around outside helps us focus better when we come back to class. Fresh air and sunshine give our brains a boost—kind of like pressing the “reset” button!

Second, playing outside teaches important social skills. When kids play tag, basketball, or make up their own games, they learn how to cooperate, solve problems, and share ideas. Sometimes there are disagreements (like who’s “it” or whether the ball was in or out), but those moments help kids practice communication and compromise—skills that are super important in life.

Another great thing about outdoor play is that it keeps our bodies healthy. Running around helps strengthen muscles, improve balance, and build strong hearts. Plus, when kids play together, they’re exercising without even realizing it—it just feels like fun!

Finally, playing outside builds community. When students laugh and play together, friendships grow stronger. Those connections make our classroom a kinder, happier place. I see it every day: kids who play together outside work better together inside.

Have a great Monday.

Love wins and it saves lives. 💜

Craig-Lead Teacher, AGP

11/01/2025

It’s free college application day at all of the schools listed below!

With everything as expensive as it is- every bit of savings helps.

Remember, CT state schools are CT state treasure. And our community colleges are an incredibly cost effective way to access higher education.

NMG 💜

10/29/2025

Last week was Digital Citizenship Week — and a great reminder that we can all benefit from lessons in media literacy, online safety, and respectful digital behavior.

Helping our children (and ourselves!) navigate the online world with care and kindness matters.

Check out Common Sense Media for helpful resources for both parents and educators.

https://www.commonsense.org/education

Amanda P.
*thank you Parenting Middle School Kids for the image!