Dear Paragon Families, We are officially in the stretch of the school year we gently warned you about: the late-winter doldrums. This is the time when student emotions can feel a little more charged, patience runs thinner, and parents are simply tired. The excitement of the new year has worn off, spring break still feels just out of reach, and everyone seems to be digging a little deeper into their reserves. And I’ll be honest-- I am in it too. My husband was out of town this week, and for the first time in my 23 years of being a parent, I allowed myself to be “just enough.” Normally when he travels, I try to operate at full capacity for two people. I cook the meals, keep the house spotless, prep everything in advance, walk the dogs, make the green smoothies, and attempt to maintain our usual rhythm without missing a beat. It is exhausting. This week, I didn’t do that. I embraced the deficit. The dishes sat in the sink. I did the bare minimum. There were no elaborate meals, no morning smoothies, and the dogs did not get daily walks. And you know what? I felt better. My cortisol levels stayed steady. There were no tears, no emotional spirals-- just a calmer, more centered version of myself. What surprised me most was how much that shift affected my girls. Their emotions were steadier. The house felt more peaceful. It reminded me how powerfully our energy sets the tone for those around us. I noticed the same thing at school, when I consciously kept my own stress from escalating, I felt clearer, more grounded, and better able to lead. So as we head into another week before spring break, I encourage you to give yourself permission to be just enough. Lower the bar where you can. Let something go. Embrace the moment instead of trying to master it. It may be exactly what we all need to get across the finish line feeling whole. I also hope to see everyone at our Science Expo on Thursday night from 5:30–7:00 p.m. Our students are working incredibly hard on their projects, and it is always one of my favorite evenings of the year-- a chance to see their curiosity, effort, and pride on full display. It’s such a special night to celebrate their hard work together as a community. Wishing you the best, Lindsay Hay, M. Ed. Head of School

Dear Paragon Families, I had the opportunity to travel to California to visit several schools within the Spring Education Group network two weeks ago. It was a full and energizing week spent inside classrooms, meeting with fellow Heads of School, and learning from leaders who are doing incredible work across the country. Stepping into other campuses always brings fresh perspective, and I returned home both inspired and grateful. One of the greatest gifts of being part of Spring Education Group is the investment they make in their leaders. I am deeply thankful to work for a company that prioritizes collaboration and professional growth, and that intentionally creates opportunities for us to learn from one another. Networking with other schools allows us to share best practices, explore innovative programming, and think strategically about what will best serve our students here at Paragon. I came home with new ideas, strengthened relationships, and practical strategies that we can thoughtfully adapt to continue elevating the Paragon experience. Every time I visit other schools, I am reminded of something important: what we have at Paragon is special. Our culture, our students, our teachers, and our strong family partnership set us apart. Visiting schools allows me to refine our vision and bring back meaningful programs and structures that support our continued growth. And after a week of tours, travel, and meetings, there was no better way to return home than at our joyful Valentine's parties, Mardi Gras Parade, and PreK–5th Grade VIP Dance on Thursday night. It was pure Paragon magic-- music, laughter, and our youngest Knights twirling the night away. We danced away the to-do lists and simply celebrated community. It was the perfect reminder that while we work hard to grow and improve, joy will always be at the heart of who we are. I wish you the best and look forward to seeing you at our Student-Teacher-Parent Conferences on Tuesday! Warmly, Lindsay Hay, M. Ed. Head of School

In the February 9, 2026 weekly update, Paragon Prep Great Northern shares highlights from a culturally enriching 6th-grade field trip to a Buddhist temple, Hindu temple, and Sikh gurdwara, emphasizing compassion, curiosity, and meaningful learning.

In the Head of School Weekly Update for February, Paragon Prep Head of School Lindsay Hay reflects on the Middle School Winter Formal, a memorable evening filled with student joy, tradition, and community spirit. She also shares a safety update about repairing a playground shade structure affected by a winter freeze, thanks families for their patience, and celebrates outstanding re‑enrollment results with a record number of returning and new student applications, underscoring the school’s vibrant community and momentum

In the Head of School Weekly Update from Paragon Prep in Austin, TX, Head of School Lindsay Hay thanks families for early re‑enrollment commitments, shares insights on community and well‑being during the winter “doldrums,” and offers supportive advice for navigating children’s emotions while staying connected.