February 6, 2017
MAKEUP WORK DUE THIS WEEK!
Tenets to live by?
The Warrior Way, Personified!
Like father, like son. Does anyone recognize the star of this clip?
Hint: From our very own Primary School.
Behavioral Notes
Hall Restriction/Lunch Detention
At the Middle School, one of our interventions to help students understand about their peer behaviors, we use a “Hall restriction/lunch detention.” This means the student waits after class between passing times before they are allowed to head to the next class. This is typically for an entire day and includes a “lunch detention” the same day. We are able to keep students in the educational setting and NOT send them to ISS. Additionally, we can still provide them with direct instruction. Yet, throughout the day, they get a little reminder to tighten up their behavior. When all of us hold them accountable, we contribute to their growth and maturity.
Our #nextstep is to allow classroom teachers the right to issue a Single Hour Hall Restriction for that period. We envision staff using that tool as a direct method of intervention to help a student manage and control their own behavior during a stressful day, like a timely and miniature time-out. Continuous guidance and redirecting these minor classroom disruptions reduce the frequency of the majors with positive results. Teachers send passes or an email for students to admit them into the next class. We don’t want students to claim they were held back when in fact, they were just tardy.
Academic Highlights from the Middle School
Cultural advances, empathy and seeing the world through the eyes of another person are a few of the “soft skills” necessary but hard to teach. A reflection on the “I Have a Dream” speech is the beginning of the introspection process.
Even our academic focus has an emotional connection, especially when we listen to a recording of the actual MLK Speech. This 15 minute version here has some applause diminished but includes the actual text of the speech.
Artistic Perspectives!
The focus on perspective crosses all sorts of boundaries. From reflections on the MLK quote to these art projects to individual ways we express ourselves, the middle school becomes a place for all of us to build our awareness of others, their points of view and acceptance. Even these art projects above show the same pieces but from different angles.
In the same way, our views of the same event may be viewed with totally opposite perspectives. What one sees as positive, another considers unworthy. Together, we must learn to acknowledge, recognize but not judge. Education is the most powerful weapon...
January eValuate Results are in!
Slow and steady wins the race.
Good growth all across the board.
Well done, Team.
Celebrations Vary!
Math posted a BRAG WALL for individuals reaching highmarks, great growth or advancements.
Other ways to celebrate may include things such as class snacks or???
What would motivate you?
Schedule for February 6th - 10th
Monday
- Valentine Grams on sale at lunch
- Yearbook Sales ongoing
- Students to hand in registrations and fees to office
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
- Chess Club in Mr. Utlaut’s room
Friday
- STUDENT MAKEUP OR LATE WORK SHOULD BE TURNED IN BY TODAY BECAUSE GRADES WILL BE EMAILED OUT NEXT MONDAY
See the Daily Announcements for a detailed version of this document
Upcoming/Ongoing items to keep on your radar
- Feb 6-13 NJHS candy grams at lunch, delivered Feb 14th during ac lab
- February 13th - Fundraiser delivery
- February 14th - Glow Dance 2:45-4:30
- Harlem Wizards at TBHS, Sunday, Feb 19th @ 2:00 pm
- NJHS - DodgeBall Tournament - February 22nd - 2:45-4:30
- March 10th - NJHS volunteer day at Food bank (7th/ 8th grade NJHS only)
- SPRING BREAK - March 17th-24th
- Middle School Spring Semi-Formal Dance w/ a Western Theme - April 21
- MAP Testing - May 4th - 11th
- Six Flags - May 12th
- Last Day of School - May 17th?
February 1st, the NAEP staff was here to administer this nationwide test. This test provides an overall perspective on the state of the state of education, statewide as well as across the nation. The students I spoke to mentioned that it seemed quite simple. (hmmmm?) Some used the NAEP computers and others had paper and pencil version but both groups sounded confident with their achievements. Of course, a test like this, without direct feedback to the test takers, school or even district creates a challenging situation when trying to motivate, but feedback from the test administrators implied that students had done a good job, being conscientious, hardworking and cooperative. Thanks for holding a high bar prior to this so students continue to meet those expectations wherever they go!
As a Principal, I get to see such great enthusiasm, hard work, growth, progress and improvement among so many individuals throughout the building. I appreciate efforts throughout the day with students, teachers and parents. It seems like a real team. In order to celebrate and say thank you in a tangible and delicious way, the office is hosting a hosting a “Fabulous Friday Faculty Celebration in February.” Last Friday, we had Soup for our Super Staff in preparation for the Super Bowl, where ticket prices were as high as $70,000 for a seat! Hopefully, you stayed home and watch the game with friends.
Perfectionism is the greatest obstacle to success we see in the middle school. So many students are filled with talent but they don't quite reach their potential. See this article for more on the topic of underachieving.
At your service,
Tom McCracken
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