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Maplewood Middle School Home and School Association
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MMS HSA News - Week 30

3/23/2020

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MMS HSA News - Week 30
MAPLEWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
Dear MMS Families,

This is one our generation's most trying times -- protecting the health of many of those who came before us, while ensuring the economic survival and growth of the country.

As we enter into week #2 of home school, we wanted to provide an update on where we are and what we know:
  • At this point, you know that your student should be reaching out to their Period #1 teacher each morning by 10 a.m. for attendance purposes. Apologies for the confusion last week. 
  • Chromebooks will be distributed on Monday and Tuesday. A voicemail and letter went out to families who requested this resource via last week's survey. Sixth and 7th grade pickup is 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday. Eighth grade pickup is Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. All pickups are at the main entrance of MMS on Burnett. Please share with your networks. 
  • At this time, there are no WiFi hotspots being provided by the district. However, if your student needs hard copies of their assignments, reach out to your teachers. The District has committed to this resource.
  • For more information on the District's current guidelines, please see Dr. Taylor's last note.
  • And here is a recent article in the NYTimes on homeschooling.
During the last Board of Education Meeting, the BOE approved the budget proposed by Dr. Taylor, which included $50,000 to provide financial access to qualifying students for school-related activities and events. More to come on this but given where we are all at the moment, this is positive news. 

Finally, a shoutout to the amazing people who are continuing to support our school and school community, Media specialist Evyn Degnan spent the weekend setting up the Chromebooks for the students who will pick them up this week. And the custodial staff is continuing to work at the school to support the lunch program as well as maintain the building. 

This is our new normal so please do not hesitate to reach out to us, other HSA members, your student's teachers, friends and neighbors via phone, video chat, social media, etc. with any questions and thoughts to ensure we stay connected.

Your MMS HSA,
Veronica and Kelly
Black History Month Book Raffle Winners!
Here are the Black History Month Book Raffle winners! 
Thank you again to the Maplewood Library, Words Bookstore, and the families that donated books!  This is a PERFECT time to have a new book to read!
School Lunch Service To Continue
For students who receive free or reduced lunch, packed lunches will be distributed every school day from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. beginning on Wednesday, March 18 at:
• Seth Boyden School
• Maplewood Middle School
• South Orange Middle School
• Columbia High School Every School Day

No one will be denied a meal.

If your family needs additional food support …
If you feel that you will need food support during our school closure, please let us know and we will arrange for a food delivery for your family. Call Karen Weiland at: 973-762-5600, X1850 or email at kweiland@somsd.k12.nj.us
Please leave your name and phone number and we will contact you with details.

Please speak slowly and clearly & please repeat your phone number twice. If you request food support we will share your contact information with a community volunteer who will make a food delivery to your home.
 
If you are able to help ...
... our friends and neighbors with a food donation, please add your name to the SignUp Genius linked below. Families are in need of shelf-stable foods such as pasta, soups and more. The Parenting Center has linked a list of needed foods on the SignUp Genius and will reach out to you with an address to deliver the groceries. 
Donate Food
Year end is quickly approaching and we have just four months left until our 8th Graders say goodbye to MMS. Activities can get expensive for our eighth graders  -- that’s why we have some dedicated fundraising efforts this Spring. 

First up, we have the  MATCH Madness fundraiser.  For every dollar you donate, a generous group of 8th grade parents has agreed to match it dollar-for-dollar up to $500 total! Please click HERE to help raise at least $1,000 for our 8th grade events. This event will start immediately and run through March 31.

Plans are under way for a second fundraiser in late April. We'll be back with details in a few weeks.  

In the event that any planned 8th grade activities are canceled, we will return all donations collected.
 
HSA Meeting
The next HSA meeting will be a virtual meeting. The date has not yet been determined.
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MMS HSA News - Week 29

3/16/2020

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MMS HSA News - Week 29
MAPLEWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
Dear MMS Families: 

We are entering uncharted territory as we start our first week of school closures due to the COVID-19 outbreak.  Things are changing very quickly and we'll try to keep you updated as best as we can. 

To that end, we just received word that to increase social distancing, effective 6 a.m. on Monday, March 16, the Township of Maplewood is closing all public playgrounds and enclosed recreational court facilities (basketball courts, paddle tennis courts, and tennis courts) until further notice. Appropriate signage and fencing will be added to enforce this decision.   

Also, as you'll read below, distance learning starts Wednesday.  If you don't know much about Google classroom, we're sharing this helpful Google Classroom Tutorial. 

We do have a great community and we suspect we'll be relying on each other more than ever in the coming weeks. 

The NJ Department of Health has set up a hotline to answer questions from the public about COVID-19. It is open 24/7 and available in multiple languages. Call 1-800-222-1222.

For more information visit:
  • NJ Department of Health
  • Centers for Disease Control

By Friday, March 27, the Administration will make a decision regarding either the resumption of school and after-school activities for Monday, March 30 or the continued closure of school.  

We will continue to provide updates when we have them. 

Veronica and Kelly
Distance Learning Planned
Distance learning via home instruction will begin Wednesday, March 18.  All students will have access to Google Classroom and teachers will provide assignments for two weeks. Parents will be receiving letters early next week with information on accessing the classroom portals. If you do not have Internet access and need a hard copy of assignments, please contact your child’s teacher via email or contact our District office with your child’s name, school, grade, and teacher name at info@somsd.k12.nj.us or (973) 762-5600.
All field trips, athletics, school-based activities/events, and ancillary programs are canceled effective March 13 until further notice. While schools are closed, there will be no access permitted into the building, except to select personnel and approved visitors.  
School Lunch Service To Continue
For students who receive free or reduced lunch, packed lunches will be distributed every school day from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. beginning on Wednesday, March 18 at:
• Seth Boyden School
• Maplewood Middle School
• South Orange Middle School
• Columbia High School Every School Day

No one will be denied a meal.

If your family needs additional food support …
If you feel that you will need food support during our school closure, please let us know and we will arrange for a food delivery for your family. Call Karen Weiland at: 973-762-5600, X1850 or email at kweiland@somsd.k12.nj.us
Please leave your name and phone number and we will contact you with details.

Please speak slowly and clearly & please repeat your phone number twice. If you request food support we will share your contact information with a community volunteer who will make a food delivery to your home.
 
If you are able to help ...
... our friends and neighbors with a food donation, please add your name to the SignUp Genius linked below. Families are in need of shelf-stable foods such as pasta, soups and more. The Parenting Center has linked a list of needed foods on the SignUp Genius and will reach out to you with an address to deliver the groceries. 
Donate Food
Building Closures in Maplewood
In case you missed it, Mayor Frank McGehee declared a state of emergency in Maplewood which has a number of implications including reducing the number of people coming into our community for gatherings and minimizing the number of people from going out to gatherings. The following buildings are closed until March 31: The Woodland, The Burgdorff, De hart Community Center, 106 Burnett Senior Building, and 1978 Springfield Ave Art Center.
Year end is quickly approaching and we have just four months left until our 8th Graders say goodbye to MMS. Activities can get expensive for our eighth graders  -- that’s why we have some dedicated fundraising efforts this Spring. 

First up, we have the  MATCH Madness fundraiser.  For every dollar you donate, a generous group of 8th grade parents has agreed to match it dollar-for-dollar up to $500 total! Please click HERE to help raise at least $1,000 for our 8th grade events. This event will start immediately and run through March 31.

Plans are under way for a second fundraiser in late April. We'll be back with details in a few weeks.  

In the event that any planned 8th grade activities are canceled, we will return all donations collected.
 
CHECK YOUR MAILBOX
A Census postcard with an ID number for your household should arrive in your mailbox early next week. Be sure to look for it! If you have questions, go to https://2020census.gov. Remember to include your children and any other individual currently living with you. If you are asked for information like your Social Security Number or bank account number, this is NOT the official U.S. 2020 Census, and may be fraud. Click here for more information. 
HSA Meeting
The next HSA meeting will be a virtual meeting. The date has not yet been determined.
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MMS HSA News - Week 28

3/9/2020

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MMS HSA News - Week 28
MAPLEWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
MMS Families,

I know it's hard not to be distracted by Covid-19 and the upcoming March 10 primaries. (New Jersey doesn't vote until  June!) But can we pull you away from these headlines for a moment and share that the Circus is coming to MMS?!

This week, students will experience fun activities Tuesday through Friday during PE with The Circus Center. As this is an HSA inaugural event, we would love to hear what your students think after the week via the MMS Families Facebook page.

In other news, "Welcome to MMS" (for incoming 6th graders) is set for March 19 at 7 p.m. Please let your friends in elementary school know. (The SOMS date is the same.) 

Finally, the District did recently shared Update #3 on the status of Covid-19. 

Stay safe and don't forget to wash your hands!

Veronica and Kelly
NJ Circus Center Workshop
On Tuesday, March 10, MMS will welcome the N.J. Circus Center for four days of workshops in PE, with all grades. This is our first circus experience at MMS, and should be a fun way for kids to engage in teamwork while challenging themselves with new skills. Photos to come!
FeedSoMany! Donations
MMS continues to support FeedSoMany! March is Cooking Oil Month so we will be collecting canola and olive oils. Your students can drop donations in the blue bin next to the security desk. Thanks for your generosity!
HSA Meeting
The next HSA meeting will take place on Wednesday, March 18 at 7:30 p.m. in the MMS Library.  
SEPAC Meeting
The next SEPAC meeting will be Wednesday, March 25 at 7:30 p.m. in the District Meeting Room at 525 Academy St. in Maplewood. The meeting will focus on out-of-district placements.
Yearbooks on Sale! 
Yearbooks are on sale! Don't wait until it is too late. Order your copy today! Order and payment must be received by April 15, 2020.

Download the yearbook order form or order online. Our school code is 6667.

You can also order a Well Wisher online. Send a message to a special 8th grader! Your Well Wisher must be ordered by April 1, 2020. 
Join The MMS HSA
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MMS HSA News - Week 27

3/2/2020

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MMS HSA News - Week 27
MAPLEWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
March is here! With the days getting noticeably longer here in SOMa, the sun coming out, and the flowers peeking out of the ground, we are fueled with fresh energy.  And even if you feel spring is still far away, 2020 has definitely gained full speed by now!   

It would be foolish for us not to mention something about the COVID-19 virus, especially as the first case in Manhattan has been confirmed.  Two key things to review:
  • The superintendent's statement from Friday  
  • The latest CDC recommendations to schools in the United States
OK, now back to our regularly scheduled programming: 

A HUGE shoutout to the cast and crew and everyone else involved in making the MMS Musical "13" a success!  Your hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed.  

March is Women's History Month.  This year also marks the 100th anniversary of women's right to vote.  New Jersey was the only state that, in adopting her first constitution, recognized women’s right to suffrage. The photo above is of New Jersey women welcoming suffrage leaders from San Francisco in 1915.

In our community, officials in Maplewood and South Orange have planned a host of unique events to highlight women's history and accomplishments. Some will be arts events, others about history, and others just about celebrating.

The officials have also partnered with the area business districts to relaunch SOMAWomen.org, the official website of SOMA Celebrates Women's History. You can learn about upcoming events and businesses can post promotions and offerings on the website. 

Upcoming MMS events: 
  • HSA Meeting:  Wednesday, March 18 
  • Thursday, March 19, 7 p.m.  6th graders): Welcome to Middle School (incoming
  • 24 Tuesday, March PD For Staff (Half Day): 
  • 8th Grade Band Concert + Honors Wind Ensemble: Thursday, March 26
FeedSoMany! Donations
MMS continues to support FeedSoMany! March is Cooking Oil Month so we will be collecting canola and olive oils. Your students can drop donations in the blue bin next to the security desk. Thanks for your generosity!
HSA Meeting
The next HSA meeting will take place on Wednesday, March 18 at 7:30 p.m. in the MMS Library.  
SEPAC Meeting
The next SEPAC meeting will be Wednesday, March 25 at 7:30 p.m. in the District Meeting Room at 525 Academy St. in Maplewood. The meeting will focus on out-of-district placements.
Yearbooks on Sale! 
Yearbooks are on sale! Don't wait until it is too late. Order your copy today! Order and payment must be received by April 15, 2020.

Download the yearbook order form or order online. Our school code is 6667.

You can also order a Well Wisher online. Send a message to a special 8th grader! Your Well Wisher must be ordered by April 1, 2020. 
Join The MMS HSA
YouthNet
HSA News Submission Form
No Frills Fundraiser
MMS Makerspace
Team Sites






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MMS HSA News - Week 26

2/24/2020

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MMS HSA News - Week 26
MAPLEWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
MMS Families!

It's hard to believe this is the last week in February! And with the end of the month comes: 13! The Musical! Our directors have been working tirelessly to get our students ready! If you have not yet purchased tickets, there are still a few left. For students in the musical, practice will end pretty late this week. Further direction has been provided directly to cast and crew members by musical directors. Please reach out to mmsmusical@gmail.com with any questions.

The last few weeks have been quite busy with fundraising. Trivia Night raised ~$17,000 and another $1,000 was raised during the Winter Concerts earlier this month. We appreciate your generosity! These funds expand access to class assemblies, school trips and other programming for all. We are also happy to report that the school elevator is finally fixed. This will be helpful in bringing supplies up to the second floor of the building and will allow access for students who need some support moving from floor to floor. We appreciate your advocacy in ensuring the district is aware of our school needs!

We cannot thank all of the volunteers enough for all the tireless work they put into making our Trivia Night a smashing success. A special shoutout to Meredith Lambert!  Because of her and her awesome team of volunteers, we were able to reach our fundraising goal.  This well-organized event continues to receive so much positive feedback.  

Don't forget to say "thank you" in person to all of the local businesses that donated food to the event, including: 
  • Coda
  • Sabatino's 
  • Roman Gourmet
  • Bill & Harry's 
  • Tandoori Chef II
  • Firehouse Subs 
  • Maplewood Pizza 
  • The Able Baker
  • Palmer's Sweetery
  • Freetown Kitchen 
  • Pickett's Village Bar & Restaurant  
Finally, our rescheduled HSA meeting is this Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 7:30 p.m. in the MMS Library. Let us know if there are burning issues that require action by your HSA!

Veronica and Kelly
Author Event at Maplewood Library
On Thursday, Feb. 27 at 4 p.m., author Marina Budhos will emcee an event for parents and kids ages 8 and up at the main branch of the library. The Long Ride is set in the 1970s, and depicts three mixed race girls who are part of a controversial busing plan. It deals with issues of identity and integration and is a great conversation starter for kids in grades 4 and up.
Dental Health Month
MMS continues to support FeedSoMany, the local South Orange-Maplewood neighborhood Facebook group that collects food for our local food pantries!

February is Dental Health Month so we will be collecting full sized toothpaste and individual toothbrushes. Your students can drop donations in the blue bin next to the security desk.

Thanks for your generosity!
Mardi Gras With The Achieve Foundation 
Please join us Friday, Feb. 28 for a New Orleans-style celebration to kick off Achieve's annual Nights of 100 Dinners fundraiser. Special thanks to Marc Bromfeld and Edrington for sponsoring Mardi Gras 2020 and enabling us to keep ticket prices so low!

Only $25 gets you dinner, dancing, live music, and one drink ticket! Buy your ticket now.  
HSA Meeting
The February HSA meeting was postponed. It will take place on Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 7:30 p.m. in the MMS Library.  
SEPAC Meeting
The next SEPAC meeting will be Wednesday, March 25 at 7:30 p.m. in the District Meeting Room at 525 Academy St. in Maplewood. The meeting will focus on out-of-district placements.
Yearbooks on Sale! 
Yearbooks are on sale! Don't wait until it is too late. Order your copy today! Order and payment must be received by April 15, 2020.

Download the yearbook order form or order online. Our school code is 6667.

You can also order a Well Wisher online. Send a message to a special 8th grader! Your Well Wisher must be ordered by April 1, 2020. 
Join The MMS HSA
YouthNet
HSA News Submission Form
No Frills Fundraiser
MMS Makerspace
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MMS HSA News - Week 25

2/18/2020

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MMS HSA News - Week 25
MAPLEWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
Welcome back!

Presidents' Day means another short week but it's also time for Trivia Night! There are still a few tickets available. 

Did you know?
You may not know but Trivia Night is the HSA’s annual fundraiser. The HSA is not a fundraising organization; there are other organizations in our community that exist primarily for the purpose of raising funds for the needs of students. But, we still require funds to carry on our programs.  At the beginning of the school year, the HSA sets forth its programs and projects for the year. The fundraising committee then works on raising the difference between the beginning year’s balance and the proposed expenditures.  The money raised by Trivia Night goes directly back to the HSA, which then funds programs and grants for teachers, staff and students, including offsetting costs for field trips and paying for special programming (like cultural arts). All of us at MMS work hard to ensure that the programs are open to all students, regardless of ability to pay, and fundraising events like Trivia Night help make that possible. (And, just an FYI, if you or anyone else would like to make a smaller donation instead of attending the fundraiser, you can do that on the Trivia Night website).  

Other events happening this week are: 
  • HSA meeting, Wednesday, Feb. 19, 7:30 p.m., MMS Library. On the agenda is our budget for next year and updates on upcoming events, including a potential read-a-thon.
  • SEPAC meeting, Thursday, Feb. 20, 7:30 p.m.,Central Office District Meeting Room, 525 Academy St.  Get SMART! (IEP goals, that is). Target audience: anyone who wants their children’s IEP goals to be Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Results-oriented and Time-bound.
Have a great week!
Veronica & Kelly
Trivia Night Volunteers Needed
As you know, Trivia Night, MMS’s biggest fundraiser of the year, is Friday, Feb 21. We are looking for volunteers to help with setup, on site during the event and with breakdown after the event. Sign up here.
President's Day Holiday
School is closed Monday, Feb. 17 for President's Day. Enjoy the long weekend!
Were you too busy shopping for your valentine that you missed the 2/14 deadline to assist with the Student Council Black History Month Project at WORDS?

DO NOT FRET! You can still help!

1) You can pick up a book from the list below at WORDS - or any other bookstore -  and drop it at MMS no later than Wednesday, Feb. 19 - ATTN "O'Sullivan - Student Council Book Project".
2) You can use the Amazon list and it will be delivered to MMS for you.

Thank you for all of your support (and to WORDS) for making the Student Council Black History Month Book Project a SUCCESS!
Author Event at Maplewood Library
On Thursday, Feb. 27 at 4 p.m., author Marina Budhos will emcee an event for parents and kids ages 8 and up at the main branch of the library. The Long Ride is set in the 1970s, and depicts three mixed race girls who are part of a controversial busing plan. It deals with issues of identity and integration and is a great conversation starter for kids in grades 4 and up.
MMS Musical Front Row Seat Raffle
Congratulations to Laura Porter, Samantha Cranko and Trenesa Danuser, winners of the MMS Musical Front Row Seat Raffle. Along with four seats, the winners received a gift bag with a show poster and T-shirt, snacks, passes to the Maplewood Movie Theater and hand soap from Good Bottle Refillery. Thanks to all you who supported the fundraising efforts.
Dental Health Month
MMS continues to support FeedSoMany, the local South Orange-Maplewood neighborhood Facebook group that collects food for our local food pantries!

February is Dental Health Month so we will be collecting full sized toothpaste and individual toothbrushes. Your students can drop donations in the blue bin next to the security desk.

Thanks for your generosity!
Mardi Gras With The Achieve Foundation 
Please join us Friday, Feb. 28 for a New Orleans-style celebration to kick off Achieve's annual Nights of 100 Dinners fundraiser. Special thanks to Marc Bromfeld and Edrington for sponsoring Mardi Gras 2020 and enabling us to keep ticket prices so low!

Only $25 gets you dinner, dancing, live music, and one drink ticket! Buy your ticket now.  
HSA Meeting
The next HSA meeting will take place on Wednesday, Feb. 19 at 7:30 p.m. in the MMS Library. The meeting originally scheduled for Jan. 15 was postponed.
SEPAC Meeting
The next SEPAC meeting will be Thursday, Feb. 20 at 7:30 p.m. in the District Meeting Room at 525 Academy St. in Maplewood. The meeting will focus on IEP goals and will be interactive so bring your child's IEP goals with you!
Yearbooks on Sale! 
Yearbooks are on sale! Don't wait until it is too late. Order your copy today! Order and payment must be received by April 15, 2020.

Download the yearbook order form or order online. Our school code is 6667.

You can also order a Well Wisher online. Send a message to a special 8th grader! Your Well Wisher must be ordered by April 1, 2020. 
Join The MMS HSA
YouthNet
HSA News Submission Form
No Frills Fundraiser
MMS Makerspace
Team Sites






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MMS HSA News - Week 24

2/10/2020

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MMS HSA News - Week 24
MAPLEWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
MMS Families,

This week is a short one with lots to do - especially for our 8th grade students! 

This Tuesday is the annual 8th grade MMS/SOMS Mixer at Columbia High School. Please ensure your student has filled out their permission slip (details below) if they are attending. On Thursday, Feb. 13 all students are invited to cheer on the 8th Grade Table Tennis Finalist. Snacks and drinks will be sold for $1 each - all proceeds will benefit our 8th grade. 

We are getting closer to Trivia Night on Friday, Feb 21. A few tickets are still available. See below for details. 

Finally, there is no school on Friday, Feb. 14 or Monday, Feb. 16. Hope you enjoy your long Valentine's Day weekend!

Veronica and Kelly
Student Council Book Project - Please Help!
We are looking for donations of books we can sell at the Student Council Store for Black History Month.

Through Friday, Feb. 14, a wishlist will be at the front desk of WORDS bookstore in Maplewood, along with a special window display. Families are encouraged to purchase a book title from the list for donation to the School Store. The books can then be purchased with Cougar Cash at the store from Feb. 19 through Feb. 28.

Our Black History Month theme is “Telling Our Stories” - what better way to promote the reading of Black authors and characters, and reflect on the rich traditions that have helped shape our world.
SAVE THE DATE!!
MMS 7th ANNUAL TRIVIA NIGHT!
Friday, February 21 @ The Woodland
7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Tickets: $70 and include more fun than you can imagine with a fierce trivia competition and plenty of food!

1 drink ticket included. You are also welcome to bring your own or buy wine and beer there.

Tickets sell out fast! Think about your team now. CLICK HERE TO ORDER TICKETS OR TO SPONSOR THE EVENT!

All proceeds go to support MMS HSA programs.
Last Chance for 8th Grade Mixer!

The deadline for students to sign up for the 8th grade mixer is lunchtime on Monday, Feb. 10. Click here for the permission slip. This is a chance for MMS 8th graders to hang out with their SOMS counterparts before they all meet up at Columbia High School next fall. Permission slips can be turned in to homeroom teachers or dropped in main office. NO PERMISSION SLIPS WILL BE ACCEPTED AT THE EVENT SO DON'T WAIT.

Snack and drink donations are also needed to make this a fun event for the Class of 2024. Sign up here. 
Dental Health Month
MMS continues to support FeedSoMany, the local South Orange-Maplewood neighborhood Facebook group that collects food for our local food pantries!

February is Dental Health Month so we will be collecting full sized toothpaste and individual toothbrushes. Your students can drop donations in the blue bin next to the security desk.

Thanks for your generosity!
13! Front Row Seats Fundraiser
This month's fundraiser is a Front Row Seat Raffle! Just $10 buys you a chance to win FOUR prime seats, a retail value of $80!One winner per performance will get four front-row seats, a 13! poster and a T-shirt.Click here to register. Winners will be drawn Feb. 13.  
President's Day Holiday
School is closed Friday, Feb. 14 and Monday, Feb. 17 for President's Day. Enjoy the long weekend!
Nights of 100 Dinners - Achieve's Fundraiser
Do you enjoy entertaining? Want to support our schools? Host a party in March for the Achieve Foundation's Nights of 100 Dinners! Send your guest list to Achieve and we'll send the invitations. Guests make a donation to the organization. Learn more. 
Achieve Foundation Direct Funding
Last month, the Achieve Foundation, awarded $34,000 in educator grants for projects across the district. Five worthy grants -  including for MMS - are now open for Direct Funding from the community. Help us spread the word and fully fund these wonderful and varied programs that benefit our students.
 
HSA Meeting
The next HSA meeting will take place on Wednesday, Feb. 19 at 7:30 p.m. in the MMS Library. The meeting originally scheduled for Jan. 15 was postponed.
Yearbooks on Sale! 
Yearbooks are on sale! Don't wait until it is too late. Order your copy today! Order and payment must be received by April 15, 2020.

Download the yearbook order form or order online. Our school code is 6667.

You can also order a Well Wisher online. Send a message to a special 8th grader! Your Well Wisher must be ordered by April 1, 2020. 
Join The MMS HSA
YouthNet
HSA News Submission Form
No Frills Fundraiser
MMS Makerspace
Team Sites






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MMS HSA News - Week 23

2/3/2020

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MMS HSA News - Week 23
MAPLEWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
February is here and brings with it a very packed month! This week alone there are four activities including school assemblies organized by our wonderful Cultural and Fine Arts HSA teams as well the Winter Band and Orchestra Concerts. Here are the dates:
  • School Assembly - From Jazz to Hip Hop: Featuring the Mark Gross Quartet and DJ Mike for the 6th and 8th grades on Monday, Feb. 3.
  • Winter Orchestra Concert - Tuesday, Feb. 4 at 7 p.m.  
  • School Assembly - Women and the Word: A Poetic Herstory for the 7th grade on Thursday, Feb. 6.
  •  Winter Band Concert - Thursday, Feb. 6 at 7 p.m.
This week is also School Counselor Appreciation Week. Did you know that our school only has two counselors for ~830 students? Last week our MMS Student Council advocated for another counselor before the SOMSD Board of Education. While no decisions have been made, we are proud of our students for showing up! Also, be sure to remind your students to wish our School Counselors a great week!

A few additional reminders:
  • Half Day on Tuesday, Feb. 4 for Staff Professional Development! 
  • The school is hosting Black Lives Matters Week in Action in honor of Black History Month. 
  • 13! The Musical is at the end of the month - don't forget to get your tickets. 
  • Trivia Night, on Friday, Feb 21, is quickly selling out - get your tickets here.
Have a great week!
Veronica and Kelly
Student Council Book Project - Please Help!
We are looking for donations of books we can sell at the Student Council Store for Black History Month.

From Monday, Feb. 5 through Friday, Feb. 14, a wishlist will be at the front desk of WORDS bookstore in Maplewood, along with a special window display. Families are encouraged to purchase a book title from the list for donation to the School Store. The books can then be purchased with Cougar Cash at the store from Feb. 19 through Feb. 28.

Our Black History Month theme is “Telling Our Stories” - what better way to promote the reading of Black authors and characters, and reflect on the rich traditions that have helped shape our world.
SAVE THE DATE!!
MMS 7th ANNUAL TRIVIA NIGHT!
Friday, February 21 @ The Woodland
7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Tickets: $70 and include more fun than you can imagine with a fierce trivia competition and plenty of food!

1 drink ticket included. You are also welcome to bring your own or buy wine and beer there.

Tickets sell out fast! Think about your team now. CLICK HERE TO ORDER TICKETS OR TO SPONSOR THE EVENT!

All proceeds go to support MMS HSA programs.
8th Grade Mixer 

The deadline for students to sign up for the 8th grade mixer is Friday, Feb. 7. Click here for the permission slip. This is a chance for MMS 8th graders to hang out with their SOMS counterparts before they all meet up at Columbia High School next fall. Permission slips will be collected during lunch the week before the mixer.

Snack and drink donations are also needed to make this a fun event for the Class of 2024. Sign up here. 
Winter Concerts
Two concerts are happening this week both in the MMS auditorium beginning at 7 p.m. Note that performers should arrive at 6:30 p.m. in standard concert attire.
  • Orchestra: Tuesday, Feb. 4
  • Band: Thursday, Feb. 6
6th Grade Rewards Activity
Our generous 6th Grade teachers are organizing a Q2 REWARDS ACTIVITY for Friday, Feb. 7 after lunch. They are planning a "Cineplex Movie" activity and have asked for snack donations. You can help reward our kids for a successful first half of the year! Click here for the SignUpGenius.
13! Front Row Seats Fundraiser
This month's fundraiser is a Front Row Seat Raffle! Just $10 buys you a chance to win FOUR prime seats, a retail value of $80!One winner per performance will get four front-row seats, a 13! poster and a T-shirt.Click here to register. Winners will be drawn Feb. 13.  
President's Day Holiday
School is closed Friday, Feb. 14 and Monday, Feb. 17 for President's Day. Enjoy the long weekend!
Nights of 100 Dinners - Achieve's Fundraiser
Do you enjoy entertaining? Want to support our schools? Host a party in March for the Achieve Foundation's Nights of 100 Dinners! Send your guest list to Achieve and we'll send the invitations. Guests make a donation to the organization. Learn more. 
Achieve Foundation Direct Funding
Last month, the Achieve Foundation, awarded $34,000 in educator grants for projects across the district. Five worthy grants -  including for MMS - are now open for Direct Funding from the community. Help us spread the word and fully fund these wonderful and varied programs that benefit our students.
 
HSA Meeting
The next HSA meeting will take place on Wednesday, Feb. 19 at 7:30 p.m. in the MMS Library. The meeting originally scheduled for Jan. 15 was postponed.
Yearbooks on Sale! 
Yearbooks are on sale! Don't wait until it is too late. Order your copy today! Order and payment must be received by April 15, 2020.

Download the yearbook order form or order online. Our school code is 6667.

You can also order a Well Wisher online. Send a message to a special 8th grader! Your Well Wisher must be ordered by April 1, 2020. 
Join The MMS HSA
YouthNet
HSA News Submission Form
No Frills Fundraiser
MMS Makerspace
Team Sites






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MMS HSA News - Week 22

1/27/2020

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MMS HSA News - Week 22
MAPLEWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
To all that are celebrating the Lunar New Year, the HSA wishes you luck in the Year of the Rat!  

For 2020, the Lunar New Year officially begins on Feb. 21.  The Lunar calendar follows the phases of the Moon and varies slightly from the Solar calendar every year.

The holiday is celebrated by a fifth (1/5) of the world’s population and observed by over 20 Asian and Southeast Asian countries, including China, Vietnam, and Korea. 

It is a time to tie up loose ends, make amends, reconnect with loved ones, and say goodbye to the past year (by literally sweeping the dust out the door). You will see lots of RED decorations everywhere. The color is a symbol of luck, happiness, and prosperity.   

February is packed with Winter Band and Orchestra, School Assemblies and 13! The Musical - stay on top of the calendar by adding the HSA calendar.

Important Dates:
  • Tuesday, Feb. 4: Half day for students (PD for staff) 
  • Wednesday, Feb. 5: Black History Month Event . Stay tuned!
  • Feb. 13: Musical fundraiser winners will be drawn. See details below.
  • Feb. 14 and Feb. 17: School closed for President's Day
  • Friday, Feb. 21: Trivia Night. Tickets are on sale. See link below!
SAVE THE DATE!!
MMS 7th ANNUAL TRIVIA NIGHT!
Friday, February 21st @ The Woodland
7pm-10pm

Tickets: $70 AND includes more fun than you can imagine with a fierce trivia competition if you’re up for it! Plenty of food!

1 drink ticket included / welcome to bring you own or buy wine & beer there.

Tickets sell out fast! Think about your team now. CLICK HERE TO ORDER TICKETS OR TO SPONSOR THE EVENT!

All proceeds go to support MMS HSA programs.
ATTN: 8th GRADE FAMILIES

Two events are fast approaching and we need your help. The annual MMS/SOMS Mixer is Tuesday, Feb. 11 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at CHS. This is a free event but we could use some snacks and volunteers. Click here to sign up. More details are available on the flyer. 

The 8th grade pretzel and water fundraiser at Table Tennis tournament will be held on Thursday, Feb. 13 during school hours (1:30 p.m. to 2:55 p.m.). If you can volunteer to help sell pretzels, please email mfitzp100@gmail.com.
13! Front Row Seats Fundraiser
This month's fundraiser is a Front Row Seat Raffle! Just $10 buys you a chance to win FOUR prime seats, a retail value of $80!One winner per performance will get four front-row seats, a 13! poster and a T-shirt.Click here to register. Winners will be drawn Feb. 13.  
Nights of 100 Dinners - Achieve's Fundraiser
Do you enjoy entertaining? Want to support our schools? Host a party in March for the Achieve Foundation's Nights of 100 Dinners! Send your guest list to Achieve and we'll send the invitations. Guests make a donation to the organization. Learn more. 
Achieve Foundation Direct Funding
Last month, the Achieve Foundation, awarded $34,000 in educator grants for projects across the district. Five worthy grants -  including for MMS - are now open for Direct Funding from the community. Help us spread the word and fully fund these wonderful and varied programs that benefit our students.
 
HSA Meeting
The next HSA meeting will take place on Wednesday, Feb. 19 at 7:30 p.m. in the MMS Library. The meeting originally scheduled for Jan. 15 was postponed.
Yearbooks on Sale! 
Yearbooks are on sale! Don't wait until it is too late. Order your copy today! Order and payment must be received by April 15, 2020.

Download the yearbook order form or order online. Our school code is 6667.

You can also order a Well Wisher online. Send a message to a special 8th grader! Your Well Wisher must be ordered by April 1, 2020. 
Join The MMS HSA
YouthNet
HSA News Submission Form
No Frills Fundraiser
MMS Makerspace
Team Sites






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MMS HSA News - Week 21

1/21/2020

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MMS HSA News - Week 21
MAPLEWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
Families - We are so proud of our MMS students and their participation in the MLK Peace Walk last week. MMS Parent Chad Hunt took amazing photos - take a look here.

A friendly reminder that school is closed on Monday, Jan. 20 in observance of MLK day. In addition, SEPAC will hold its next meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 22 at 7:30 p.m. at MMS (note the location change). This meeting is for families with students who are currently IN or ENTERING middle school or high school.  Dr. Morana and supervisors have been invited to attend for the first half of the meeting. 

Additional reminders:
  • The Winter Band and Orchestra dates have landed - mark your calendars for Feb. 4 (Orchestra) and Feb. 6 (Band). They each start at 7 p.m. and should last for about an hour.   
  • Trivia Night is Friday, Feb. 22. Tickets will go on sale soon and will sell out FAST! If you are planning on attending, get your teams together ASAP. (Team sizes are about 10 people.)  
  • 13! The Musical runs Feb 28. to March 1 at MMS.
    • Tickets are on sale now! 
    • Messages and ads can still be placed in the playbill.
    • Musical T-Shirts and Candygrams can also be pre-ordered. 
Enjoy the week,
Veronica and Kelly
SAVE THE DATE!!
MMS 7th ANNUAL TRIVIA NIGHT!
Friday, February 21st @ The Woodland
7pm-10pm

Tickets: $70 AND includes more fun than you can imagine with a fierce trivia competition if you’re up for it! Plenty of food!

1 drink ticket included / welcome to bring you own or buy wine & beer there.

Tickets sell out fast! Think about your team now. STAY TUNED FOR AN EMAIL THIS WEEK WITH INFORMATION ON TICKET SALES!

All proceeds go to support MMS HSA programs.
13! Front Row Seats Fundraiser
This month's fundraiser is a Front Row Seat Raffle! One winner per performance will get four front-row seats, a 13! poster and a T-shirt. Note: There are no refunds so winners who have purchased tickets can share with friends or donate tickets back to the house.  Winners will be drawn Feb. 13. Stay tuned for more details! 
Schools Closed
All district schools will be closed Monday, Jan. 20 in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 
Nights of 100 Dinners - Achieve's Fundraiser
Do you enjoy entertaining? Want to support our schools? Host a party in March for the Achieve Foundation's Nights of 100 Dinners! Send your guest list to Achieve and we'll send the invitations. Guests make a donation to the organization. Learn more. 
HSA Meeting
The next HSA meeting will take place on Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 7:30 p.m. in the MMS Library. The meeting originally scheduled for Jan. 15 was postponed.
SEPAC Meeting
The next SEPAC meeting will be Wednesday, Jan. 22 at 7:30 p.m. at MMS. Note that the meeting location has changed. The target audience is anyone with a student in or entering middle school or high school.
In Tune's Open House
Stop by on Saturday, Jan. 25 to find out more about our music school. Meet our teachers, try out an instrument and learn about our new lessons and classes.

In Tune is located above the Maplewood Movie theater (155 Maplewood Avenue), and we offer music lessons for all ages and levels!
Yearbooks on Sale! 
Yearbooks are on sale! Don't wait until it is too late. Order your copy today! Order and payment must be received by April 15, 2020.

Download the yearbook order form or order online. Our school code is 6667.

You can also order a Well Wisher online. Send a message to a special 8th grader! Your Well Wisher must be ordered by April 1, 2020. 
Join The MMS HSA
YouthNet
HSA News Submission Form
No Frills Fundraiser
MMS Makerspace
Team Sites






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