Friday, March 19, 2021

The Middle Update 3/19/21

ALL Kids Can Learn at High Levels

ALL Kids Will Learn at High Levels Because of What WE Do


Resource of the Week

If you have watched the news this week, you probably noticed the reporting of an increase in the number of racially motivated attacks on Asian Americans.  The conversation around racial inequities and injustices have been coming more into the mainstream as of late.  As we look in the mirror at many of our practices, both system-wide and in the classroom, we may notice some things that we do that perpetuate beliefs and stereotypes that allow racism to persist.  Katie and Anna have started to lead professional development sessions around these topics, and we certainly have some work to do in terms of identifying our own biases, analyzing our practices, and getting comfortable with the conversation and planning for how to effectively work on this with our students....it's a process that takes time.  Our article this week contributes to gaining an understanding of this important issue.

"All Students Need Anti-Racism Education" - Christina Torres


CDC Updates Guidance for Social Distancing For Schools

After analysis of a plethora of research on how the coronavirus spreads, the CDC has updated its guidance regarding social distance in schools.  The new 3 foot recommendation with masks can be a game changer for us.  Please review the article for more details at this LINK.  We have built in systems and routines and have a certain level of comfort with "the way things are now", but when you take a step back to imagine the possibilities that exist to better serve our students utilizing this new guidance, there are some exciting possibilities to consider.  We'll always strive to improve what we do, and be better, as long as those efforts are focused in on our goals for each one of our students.


End of Quarter 3

The end of the 3rd quarter is next Friday (3/26).  Grades will be due by the end of the day on Tuesday (4/6) when we return from Spring Break.


School Supply List for Next Year

The next issue of the PAD newsletter will be heading out to our families very soon.  One part of the newsletter includes the School Supply List for next year.  As we work on budgets for next year, it might also be a good idea to take a look at the supply list, and start putting together this information for our parents.  You can find a copy of the list below.

PMS School Supply List


Budget Reminder

A reminder to please have your budget requests turned in to me by the end of day on Wednesday (3/24).  Please let me know if you'd like to discuss any request you may be considering.


Forward Exam Testing Schedule

Unfortunately, we've had to adjust the Forward Exam Testing Dates due to a scheduling conflict.  We'll be pushing back the testing one week, and will test from April 19th to the 23rd.  Please see this Document for the new details.  I apologize in advance for any change in already-made plans that have to be made, but appreciate everyone's flexibility.

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The Middle Update 3/19/21

ALL Kids Can Learn at High Levels

ALL Kids Will Learn at High Levels Because of What WE Do


Resource of the Week

If you have watched the news this week, you probably noticed the reporting of an increase in the number of racially motivated attacks on Asian Americans.  The conversation around racial inequities and injustices have been coming more into the mainstream as of late.  As we look in the mirror at many of our practices, both system-wide and in the classroom, we may notice some things that we do that perpetuate beliefs and stereotypes that allow racism to persist.  Katie and Anna have started to lead professional development sessions around these topics, and we certainly have some work to do in terms of identifying our own biases, analyzing our practices, and getting comfortable with the conversation and planning for how to effectively work on this with our students....it's a process that takes time.  Our article this week contributes to gaining an understanding of this important issue.

"All Students Need Anti-Racism Education" - Christina Torres


CDC Updates Guidance for Social Distancing For Schools

After analysis of a plethora of research on how the coronavirus spreads, the CDC has updated its guidance regarding social distance in schools.  The new 3 foot recommendation with masks can be a game changer for us.  Please review the article for more details at this LINK.  We have built in systems and routines and have a certain level of comfort with "the way things are now", but when you take a step back to imagine the possibilities that exist to better serve our students utilizing this new guidance, there are some exciting possibilities to consider.  We'll always strive to improve what we do, and be better, as long as those efforts are focused in on our goals for each one of our students.


End of Quarter 3

The end of the 3rd quarter is next Friday (3/26).  Grades will be due by the end of the day on Tuesday (4/6) when we return from Spring Break.


School Supply List for Next Year

The next issue of the PAD newsletter will be heading out to our families very soon.  One part of the newsletter includes the School Supply List for next year.  As we work on budgets for next year, it might also be a good idea to take a look at the supply list, and start putting together this information for our parents.  You can find a copy of the list below.

PMS School Supply List


Budget Reminder

A reminder to please have your budget requests turned in to me by the end of day on Wednesday (3/24).  Please let me know if you'd like to discuss any request you may be considering.


Forward Exam Testing Schedule

Unfortunately, we've had to adjust the Forward Exam Testing Dates due to a scheduling conflict.  We'll be pushing back the testing one week, and will test from April 19th to the 23rd.  Please see this Document for the new details.  I apologize in advance for any change in already-made plans that have to be made, but appreciate everyone's flexibility.