MMS HSA
Maplewood Middle School Home and School Association
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MMS HSA Weekly Update #16

12/16/2018

 
Hello MMS Families -

Happy Holidays from your MMS HSA! The week is full and we have a few new reminders for families this week. YouthNet classes for Winter have been announced and fliers should have come home - there are some returning favorites and a few new exciting classes. There is a link below if you need it.

MMS Musical Tickets are on sale! Buy Now!

It’s also Battle Time!! MMS Battle of the Classes has begun and Spirit Week is in full swing, details below but special note tomorrow is Pajama Day!!  
Lastly, tomorrow we will also be celebrating our amazing staff on with our annual Staff Holiday Luncheon. Our event team has been busy preparing for the event, but if you have time to help out or can donate something yummy, your efforts would be truly appreciated! Please see details below for more information. We could still use your generous support!  Click Here

A Few Key Dates:
  • December 10 - Jan 4 - Youthnet signups, Classes begin Jan 7, 2019
  • December 17-21 Spirit Week, Battle of the Classes!
    • Mon. 12/17:  Pajama day
      • Dress in your comfiest pajamas
    • Tues 12/18:  Character day
      • Dress as your favorite character from movies, tv, sports or books
    • Wed. 12/19:  Future day
      • Dress as your future self or as if you're from the future
    • Thurs. 12/20:  Sports day
      • Represent your favorite local or national team
    • Friday 12/21:  Colors
      • Dress in your grade’s colors:
        • 6th grade- white
        • 7th grade- black
        • 8th grade- red
  • December 17 - Staff Luncheon (see details below)
  • December 17 - BOE Meeting 7:30, 525 Academy Street
  • December 21 - 4-hour day, Winter Break begins
  • December 24 - 31, Winter Break
  • January 1 - Winter Break
  • January 2 - School resumes
  • January 22-  Orchestra Concert 7pm
  • January 23 - Band Concert 7pm
  • February 1 - Trivia Night - save the date!

YouthNet

YouthNet registration for Winter 2019 has opened and students can register through Jan 4, 2019. Most classes begin Jan 7th, unless noted. Forms should have come home with your student, but you can also get detailed information online here. http://www.somayouthnet.org/middle-school-clubs.html

Battle of the Classes!

The MMS Battle of the Classes has begun! The winter battle where students band together as a grade and battle for pennies, box tops, canned goods, good behavior points and overall bragging rights. Culminating on a final day where kids get to be kids - rising to full Cougar pride in the Battle of the Classes. Yes, the Fun has begun, read below for all the ways your student can help earn points for their class. With the official battle on 12/21!
  1. Canned Food Drive - As part of the ongoing commitment to MAPSO Cares Food Pantry collection, MMS is the host school for December. We are collecting Non Perishable Food Items. Bring in to your 1st period teacher for 1 pt towards Battle of the Classes.For more information on MAPSO Cares, contact the MAPSO Project Coordinator @ Sophieb626@gmail.com! *Please check expiration dates on donated items!*
  2. Box tops - Student Council is collecting Box Tops. Please bring in for battle points. These can be given to your Team leaders.
  3. Pennies, Pennies, Pennies.  The Penny Wars have begun. Look for your grade collection containers in the cafeteria thru 12/19
  4. Spirit Week begins 12/17 and the Official Battle is 12/21. Students will battle to the finish for bragging rights, who will win? 6th? 7th? 8th?  

Musical Updates

Friday was an all casts and crew meeting, Directors gave out info about the January & February calendars, playbill ads, and costumes. For most info visit the musical webpage, https://sites.google.com/site/mmsmusical/
MMS Musical tickets are now on sale!  You can purchase your tickets online at https://sites.google.com/site/mmsmusical/ or fill out a paper order form that will be sent home with your students on Tuesday 12/18 and return to the main office.  

Yearbooks!

Hard to believe, but it’s time to order yearbooks! The Yearbook Club advisors no longer accept paper order forms, checks, or cash for pre ordered yearbooks.  Please mail this form with payment to the address highlighted on the order form. We appreciate your understanding and apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you.  Please see the attached forms with information on ordering the 2018-2019 yearbook.
Yearbook Order Form
Well Wishers Info

Special Ed Update
  • Special Siblings Dec 17 (drop off grades 5-8) 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm
  • ADD/ADHD Parent Group, December 19, 7:30 - 9:00 pm

Tissues and School Store Need Supplies

Tissues are always in demand! Please consider sending your sniffling child back to school in the new year with a new box for their homeroom. Also, The student council also runs a school store and accepts donations, please make sure to send in food allergy compliant snacks. They even have an Amazon Wishlist if getting to the store is too hectic. Click Here for MMS School Store’s Amazon Wishlist

Teacher requests

From Ms. Laing: Can you please mention to HSA that Hair Care is a YouthNet Club that will be launching Thursday, January 10th.
From Ms. Amaral:  I want to make sure my students have the materials and experiences they need to succeed, so I just created a request for my classroom at DonorsChoose.org: Flex Our Brains With Flexible Seating. If you chip in to help my students, you'll get awesome photos and our heartfelt thanks. Thanks so much, Aggie Amaral, 6th Grade Mathematics
https://www.donorschoose.org/project/flex-our-brains-with-flexible-seating/3745687/?utm_source=dc&utm_medium=directlink&utm_campaign=teacherhub&utm_term=teacher_257624&rf=directlink-dc-2018-12-teacherhub-teacher_257624&challengeid=70047

Achieve - Calling all Hosts!

It's not too early to think about hosting a party in March for the Achieve Foundation's largest annual fundraiser, Nights of 100 Dinners. You create the guest list, and Achieve sends invitations on your behalf. Instead of bringing a hostess gift or bottle of wine, guests make a donation to the organization. Since its inception in 2005, the Nights of 100 Dinners has raised more than $500,000 to fund Achieve’s programs and benefit all ten schools in the district. Register as a host at tinyurl.com/nhd2019 or email100dinners@achievefoundation.org to learn more.

No Frills and Fundraising - Still Time to Donate!

MMS HSA raises funds through an ongoing No Frills fundraiser, Money Maker (Host your own, seed your own) initiatives, Adults only Trivia Night, and other grade specific events during the school year. Without the support of families, we would not be able to provide the supplemental support to the students and staff. To donate now Click Here.

Visiting Mentor Program

Thanks to everyone who has been in touch with Rachel Fisher!  The MMS HSA is compiling a list of Visiting Mentors: individuals who will talk to middle school students about their work and/or how they apply math, science, language arts and fine arts skills in their professions. We are creating a list that will be available to MMS teachers so they can invite community members into their classrooms to share their stories and expertise. If your work involves math, science, language arts skills and/or the arts – or an interesting combination of these areas - and you can imagine turning that work into a lesson or speaking with middle schoolers about it, please contact us at MMSHSAinfo@gmail.com!
Let us know your name, profession or skill, what classes you see yourself working with (math, science, social studies, music, etc), cell phone number and email.  We will add you to the spreadsheet and then you may hear from an MMS teacher! This is a first-time effort, so let’s make ourselves available to our community’s kids and see what happens! Thank you MMS Families.

MMS Library Volunteers needed!

I know you all are wondering what goes not over in the mysterious land of MMS...well here is your chance to get a little sneak peek into middle school.  You will not be working in your child's class like in the elementary schools but just helping out in the library in general. Mr. Degnan needs the most help during his MMS investigates class (highlighted in blue on the schedule).  This is a cool class that he teaches and would love a parent to be there to do some projects, filing, man the desk and just be an extra set of eyes and hands. He would love whatever time whenever you can give it but if you can make the MMS Investigates class time that would even be better!  Just type in your name in the spot that you can volunteer. Please do not delete anyone's name that is already there. Library signup https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/170PmsHyDvQG9S2c0e0YJB1y4IMTWJmWplKnPRzvcSV8/edit#gid=1195897959

Gratefully yours,

Deb Holt & Sara Knutsen
MMS HSA Co-Presidents 2018-2019
mmshsainfo@gmail.com
debcatholt@gmail.com
szknutsen@gmail.com

MMS HSA Weekly Update #15

12/16/2018

 
Hello MMS Families -

Brrr.. it’s getting cold out there but there sure is a buzz in the air at MMS! Pennies and cans of food from your pantries are likely disappearing, and suddenly all your FULL cereal boxes and packaged goods have rectangles cut out of them. Yes, it is that time of year. The MMS Battle of the Classes has begun! 6th grade families are most likely scratching their heads wondering, what is that? While 8th grade and returning families know exactly what that means. It is truly the most wonderful time of the year, MMS Cougar spirit is in full swing. See below for all details.
A gentle reminder, there is a teacher professional development day this week which means a 4 hour day this Tuesday, December 11. Please make sure your student remembers there is no lunch service that day. We will be celebrating our amazing staff on Monday, December 17 with our annual Staff Holiday Luncheon.  If you have time to help out or can donate something yummy, your efforts would be truly appreciated! Please see details below for more information. We could use your generous support!
We still need your support to reach our financial goals as we enhance the Cultural Arts offerings that we want to bring to our students.  Please see the link below to make a donation.

A Few Key Dates:
  • December 7-21 - Battle of the Classes!
  • December 11 - 4-hour day, Staff Development
  • December 12 - Title I information dinner 6pm, Seth Boyden Elementary
  • December 17 - Staff Luncheon (see details below)
  • December 17 - BOE Meeting 7:30, 525 Academy Street
  • December 21 - 4-hour day, Winter Break begins
  • December 24 - 31, Winter Break
  • January 1 - Winter Break
  • January 2 - School resumes
  • February 1 - Trivia Night - save the date!

Battle of the Classes

The MMS Battle of the Classes has begun! The winter battle where students band together as a grade and battle for pennies, box tops, canned goods, good behavior points and overall bragging rights. Culminating on a final day where kids get to be kids - rising to full Cougar pride in the Battle of the Classes. Yes, the Fun has begun, read below for all the ways your student can help earn points for their class. With the official battle on 12/21!
  1. Canned Food Drive - As part of the ongoing commitment to MAPSO Cares Food Pantry collection, MMS is the host school for December. We are collecting Non Perishable Food Items. Bring in to your 1st period teacher for 1 pt towards Battle of the Classes.For more information on MAPSO Cares, contact the MAPSO Project Coordinator @ Sophieb626@gmail.com! *Please check expiration dates on donated items!*
  2. Box tops - Student Council is collecting Box Tops. Please bring in for battle points. These can be given to your Team leaders.
  3. Pennies, Pennies, Pennies.  The Penny Wars have begun. Look for your grade collection containers in the cafeteria. 12/7 thru 12/19
  4. Official Battle is 12/21. Students will battle to the finish for bragging rights, who will win? 6th? 7th? 8th?  
Yearbooks!

Hard to believe, but it’s time to order yearbooks! The Yearbook Club advisors no longer accept paper order forms, checks, or cash for pre ordered yearbooks.  Please mail this form with payment to the address highlighted on the order form. We appreciate your understanding and apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you.  Please see the attached forms with information on ordering the 2018-2019 yearbook.
Yearbook Order Form
Well Wishers Info

Staff Holiday Luncheon

The annual MMS Teacher and Staff Appreciation Holiday lunch will be held on December 17th. Please consider making a donation or volunteering your time.  See details on attached sign up genius here:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0d48aead29a13-teacher1
Special Ed Update
Special Siblings Dec 17 (drop off grades 5-8) 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm
ADD/ADHD Parent Group, December 19, 7:30 - 9:00 pm
December SEPAC meeting will be a social event for families, details coming

Achieve - Calling all Hosts!

It's not too early to think about hosting a party in March for the Achieve Foundation's largest annual fundraiser, Nights of 100 Dinners. You create the guest list, and Achieve sends invitations on your behalf. Instead of bringing a hostess gift or bottle of wine, guests make a donation to the organization. Since its inception in 2005, the Nights of 100 Dinners has raised more than $500,000 to fund Achieve’s programs and benefit all ten schools in the district. Register as a host at tinyurl.com/nhd2019 or email100dinners@achievefoundation.org to learn more.

Title 1 information Dinner

Please see the invitation to the MMS/Serh Boyden combined Title I information night next Wednesday, December 12, 2018 at 6pm at Seth Boyden Elementary School located at 274 Boyden Ave, Maplewood, NJ 07040.  Dinner will be served. Come hear from both school principals and staff about programming offered to students in need of more academic support. Click here for details. See you there!

Parenting Center Toy Drive

Due to a higher than usual demand for toys for our South Orange Maplewood School District families this school year, the 2018 Holiday Toy Drive has been extended until Friday, December 14th.  Therefore, there is still an additional opportunity to make a child's holiday wish come true! Your continued generous support is required to meet the desires of all of our needy families. As a reminder, this year we've made it easier with our Amazon Gift Registry and "go fund me" accounts.  Click on the links below to donate today!

Amazon.com gift registry:  https://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/1C8Y5M2GPVY4O
Or make a tax-deductible donation at:  www.gofundme.com/somsd-parenting-center-toy-drive  Or send a check to the:  SOMSD Parenting Center~525 Academy Street, Maplewood, NJ 07040

The Parenting Center offers their sincere thanks for your support! Donation boxes are in main office!

No Frills and Fundraising - Still Time to Donate!

MMS HSA raises funds through an ongoing No Frills fundraiser, Money Maker (Host your own, seed your own) initiatives, Adults only Trivia Night, and other grade specific events during the school year. Without the support of families, we would not be able to provide the supplemental support to the students and staff. To donate now Click Here.

Visiting Mentor Program

Thanks to everyone who has been in touch with Rachel Fisher!  The MMS HSA is compiling a list of Visiting Mentors: individuals who will talk to middle school students about their work and/or how they apply math, science, language arts and fine arts skills in their professions. We are creating a list that will be available to MMS teachers so they can invite community members into their classrooms to share their stories and expertise. If your work involves math, science, language arts skills and/or the arts – or an interesting combination of these areas - and you can imagine turning that work into a lesson or speaking with middle schoolers about it, please contact us at MMSHSAinfo@gmail.com!
Let us know your name, profession or skill, what classes you see yourself working with (math, science, social studies, music, etc), cell phone number and email.  We will add you to the spreadsheet and then you may hear from an MMS teacher! This is a first-time effort, so let’s make ourselves available to our community’s kids and see what happens! Thank you MMS Families.

MMS Library Volunteers needed!

I know you all are wondering what goes not over in the mysterious land of MMS...well here is your chance to get a little sneak peek into middle school.  You will not be working in your child's class like in the elementary schools but just helping out in the library in general. Mr. Degnan needs the most help during his MMS investigates class (highlighted in blue on the schedule).  This is a cool class that he teaches and would love a parent to be there to do some projects, filing, man the desk and just be an extra set of eyes and hands. He would love whatever time whenever you can give it but if you can make the MMS Investigates class time that would even be better!  Just type in your name in the spot that you can volunteer. Please do not delete anyone's name that is already there. Library signup https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/170PmsHyDvQG9S2c0e0YJB1y4IMTWJmWplKnPRzvcSV8/edit#gid=1195897959

Musical Updates

Questions?  Contact Ms. O'Sullivan (mosulliv@somsd.k12.nj.us).  For most info visit the musical webpage, https://sites.google.com/site/mmsmusical/

Superintendent Search

You should have received an email from the district Friday detailing the process for the Superintendent Search. For more information please click here

Tissues and School Store

We mentioned on our News on Waffles segment to be on the lookout for TISSUES. It’s already been a busy season of allergies and colds.  If you are at the store and can pick up some extra boxes, the MMS staff would greatly appreciate it! The student council runs a school store and accepts donations, please make sure to send in food allergy compliant snacks. They even have an Amazon Wishlist if getting to the store is too hectic.Click Here for MMS School Store’s Amazon Wishlist

MightyNest

Discover innovative products for a healthy home & earn money for Maplewood Middle School!
MightyNest's dual mission is to help families create healthy homes AND raise money for each customer's school.  Every product, including reusable lunch gear, body care, cleaning supplies, kitchenwares and more, was handpicked to help families live healthy lives.  To get started, simply join our school fundraiser here then choose your membership type. All members receive Free Shipping and up to 30% off hundreds of MightyNest's durable, safe products. The best part is that you will raise money for our school every month.

The most popular membership is the MightyFix. For $10/month you'll receive one amazing product each month that helps your family live healthier and greener while earning $1 each month for our school. The product is always worth more than $10 retail, ships free and you also get free shipping on anything else you add to your MightyFix.
  • Get your first month of the MightyFix for only $5 when you use promo code SCHOOLFIX5
  • New members who signup for the annual MightyFix subscription earn an extra $8 for our school during the first year, for a total of $20 to our school! If you use the promo code SCHOOLFIX5 you can get a bonus two months free with an annual subscription.
  • Our school must earn $100 by May 31st to earn our payout check, so the sooner you sign up, the better for our school!
Other membership options include healthy body care, natural feminine care, and home essentials. Please check it out!

Gratefully yours,


Deb Holt & Sara Knutsen
MMS HSA Co-Presidents 2018-2019
mmshsainfo@gmail.com
debcatholt@gmail.com
szknutsen@gmail.com
​

MMS HSA Weekly Update #14

12/2/2018

 
Hello MMS Families -

Happy December!  It’s hard to believe that this year is almost over!

We will be celebrating our amazing staff on Monday, December 17 with our annual Staff Holiday Luncheon. If you have time to help out or can donate something yummy, your efforts would be truly appreciated! Please see details below for more information.

Thanks to everyone who donated to your MMS HSA on Giving Tuesday!  We still need your support to reach our goals and we enhance the Cultural Arts offerings that we want to bring to our students. Please see the link below to make a donation.

A Few Key Dates:

December 11 - 4-hour day, Staff Development
December 17 - Staff Luncheon (see details below)
December 17 - BOE Meeting 7:30, 525 Academy Street
December 21 - 4-hour day, Winter Break begins
December 24 - 31, Winter Break
January 1 - Winter Break
January 2 - School resumes
February 1 - Trivia Night - save the date!

HSA eBlast update

Our mailing list is now complete with all families' email information as provided by the District. If you need to update your information please follow the MailChimp links below.

Yearbooks!

Hard to believe, but it’s time to order yearbooks!

The Yearbook Club advisors no longer accept paper order forms, checks, or cash for pre-ordered yearbooks.  Please mail this form with payment to the address highlighted on the order form. We appreciate your understanding and apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you.

Please see the attached forms with information on ordering the 2018-2019 yearbook.
Yearbook Order Form
Well Wishers Info

Staff Holiday Luncheon

The annual MMS Teacher and Staff Appreciation Holiday lunch will be held on December 17th. Please consider making a donation or volunteering your time. See details on attached sign up genius here: 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0d48aead29a13-teacher1

6th Grade Update :

If you haven’t had a chance to fill out the survey, please take a moment to do so.  This survey is being distributed to collect information on student attendance for a potential field trip for to Ellis Island Thursday, December 20th. Please take a moment to fill out the Google form linked below to help us plan accordingly. Thank you.
https://goo.gl/forms/ZuJ7dGfm0qM83hLs1

Special Ed Update

This Monday, with our own Mr. Stoudermire & Nurse Porter: Navigating the Middle School Years- Cliques, Squads , Bullying & More, Dec 3, 7:30 - 9:00 pm, Parenting Center (BOE Building, 525 Academy St).

Parents will discuss and practice with the School Social Worker and School Nurse how to take care of their children, themselves, and each other as they parent teens in Middle School. We’ll explore strategies on how to support, guide, and direct children to succeed in Middle School - to be ready to face the day and have enough resilience to get through it. Questions? Please contact Eric Stoudemire, MMS School Social Workerestoudem@somsd.k12.nj.us or Julie Porter, MMS School Nursejporter@somsd.k12.nj.us Meetings will be held 7:30 - 9:00 pm on the first Monday of each month.

Also on Monday:

Calming Anxiety and Building Self Esteem for your child: Monday, December 3 from 7:30-8:30pm at the Maplewood Memorial Library.

For Parents & Caregivers - Come join Beth Cosentino, a NJ Parent Fellow from Understood, as she explains the ins-and-outs of anxiety and stress, what to look for in your own child and how to help. We'll also delve into how to boost self esteem for every student, with or without learning and attention issues. Plus, there will be plenty of time for sharing and discussion.   Registration recommended but not required  https://bit.ly/2DkBwNa

Family Support Groups at the Parenting Center (BOE Building, 525 Academy St) in December:

Navigating the Middle School Years- Cliques, Squads , Bullying & More Dec 3, 7:30 - 9:00 pm

2E (Twice Exceptional) Parent Support Group, December 5, 9:30 am
Special Siblings Dec 17 (drop off grades 5-8) 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm
ADD/ADHD Parent Group, December 19, 7:30 - 9:00 pm
December SEPAC meeting will be a social event for families, details coming

Letters From Anne and Martin

A dramatic presentation of kindred spirits from parallel worlds - Anne Frank and Martin Luther King Jr. at CHS on December 4.  For more information and to buy tickets, please click here

No Frills and Fundraising - Still Time to Donate!

MMS HSA raises funds through an ongoing No Frills fundraiser, Money Maker (Host your own, seed your own) initiatives, Adults only Trivia Night, and other grade specific events during the school year. Without the support of families, we would not be able to provide the supplemental support to the students and staff. To donate now Click Here.

Visiting Mentor Program

Thanks to everyone who has been in touch with Rachel Fisher!  The MMS HSA is compiling a list of Visiting Mentors: individuals who will talk to middle school students about their work and/or how they apply math, science, language arts and fine arts skills in their professions. We are creating a list that will be available to MMS teachers so they can invite community members into their classrooms to share their stories and expertise. If your work involves math, science, language arts skills and/or the arts – or an interesting combination of these areas - and you can imagine turning that work into a lesson or speaking with middle schoolers about it, please contact us at MMSHSAinfo@gmail.com!

Let us know your name, profession or skill, what classes you see yourself working with (math, science, social studies, music, etc), cell phone number and email.  We will add you to the spreadsheet and then you may hear from an MMS teacher! This is a first-time effort, so let’s make ourselves available to our community’s kids and see what happens! Thank you MMS Families.

MMS Library Volunteers needed!

I know you all are wondering what goes not over in the mysterious land of MMS...well here is your chance to get a little sneak peek into middle school.  You will not be working in your child's class like in the elementary schools but just helping out in the library in general. Mr. Degnan needs the most help during his MMS investigates class (highlighted in blue on the schedule).  This is a cool class that he teaches and would love a parent to be there to do some projects, filing, man the desk and just be an extra set of eyes and hands. He would love whatever time whenever you can give it but if you can make the MMS Investigates class time that would even be better!  Just type in your name in the spot that you can volunteer. Please do not delete anyone's name that is already there. Library signup https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/170PmsHyDvQG9S2c0e0YJB1y4IMTWJmWplKnPRzvcSV8/edit#gid=1195897959

Musical Updates

Questions?  Contact Ms. O'Sullivan (mosulliv@somsd.k12.nj.us).  For most info visit the musical webpage,https://sites.google.com/site/mmsmusical/

Superintendent Search

You should have received an email from the district Friday detailing the process for the Superintendent Search. For more information please click here

Tissues and School Store

We mentioned on our News on Waffles segment to be on the lookout for TISSUES. It’s already been a busy season of allergies and colds.  If you are at the store and can pick up some extra boxes, the MMS staff would greatly appreciate it! The student council runs a school store and accepts donations, please make sure to send in food allergy compliant snacks. They even have an Amazon Wishlist if getting to the store is too hectic.Click Here for MMS School Store’s Amazon Wishlist

MightyNest

Discover innovative products for a healthy home & earn money for Maplewood Middle School!

MightyNest's dual mission is to help families create healthy homes AND raise money for each customer's school.  Every product, including reusable lunch gear, body care, cleaning supplies, kitchenwares and more, was handpicked to help families live healthy lives.  To get started, simply join our school fundraiser here then choose your membership type. All members receive Free Shipping and up to 30% off hundreds of MightyNest's durable, safe products. The best part is that you will raise money for our school every month.

The most popular membership is the MightyFix. For $10/month you'll receive one amazing product each month that helps your family live healthier and greener while earning $1 each month for our school. The product is always worth more than $10 retail, ships free and you also get free shipping on anything else you add to your MightyFix.
  • Get your first month of the MightyFix for only $5 when you use promo code SCHOOLFIX5
  • New members who signup for the annual MightyFix subscription earn an extra $8 for our school during the first year, for a total of $20 to our school! If you use the promo code SCHOOLFIX5 you can get a bonus two months free with an annual subscription.
  • Our school must earn $100 by May 31st to earn our payout check, so the sooner you sign up, the better for our school!
Other membership options include healthy body care, natural feminine care, and home essentials. Please check it out!

Gratefully yours,

Deb Holt & Sara Knutsen
MMS HSA Co-Presidents 2018-2019
​
mmshsainfo@gmail.com
debcatholt@gmail.com
szknutsen@gmail.com

MMS HSA Weekly Update #13

11/25/2018

 
Hello MMS Families -

We hope that you had a wonderful Thanksgiving break and were able to spend time with family and friends!  We have a full week of school ahead, and are looking forward to the holidays! Thank you to all the volunteers who ensured a successful 7th grade Block Party last week, specifically, event chairs and 7th Coordinators Sunita Subramanian and Suzanne Rowland. The kids had a great time!

Thanks also to all MMS families who made their voices heard regarding the Long-Range Facilities Plan. The BOE voted on Tuesday, November 19 to approve the Superintendent’s recommended Capital Plan to enhance our schools and facilities.

A Few Key Dates:

November 27 - SEPAC Meeting, 7:30, 525 Academy Street, District Meeting Room
December 11 - 4-hour day, Staff Development
December 17 - BOE Meeting 7:30, 525 Academy Street
December 21 - 4-hour day, Winter Break begins
December 24 - 31, Winter Break
January 1 - Winter Break
January 2 - School resumes

HSA eBlast update

Our mailing list is now complete with all families' email information as provided by the District. If you need to update your information please follow the MailChimp links below.

6th Grade Update :

Please see this note from the 6th grade team leaders. This survey is being distributed to collect information on student attendance for a potential field trip for to Ellis Island Thursday, December 20th. Please take a moment to fill out the Google form linked below to help us plan accordingly. Thank you.
https://goo.gl/forms/ZuJ7dGfm0qM83hLs1

Letters From Anne and Martin

A dramatic presentation of kindred spirits from parallel worlds - Anne Frank and Martin Luther King Jr. at CHS on December 4.  For more information and to buy tickets, please click here

Visiting Mentor Program

Thanks to everyone who has been in touch with Rachel Fisher!  The MMS HSA is compiling a list of Visiting Mentors: individuals who will talk to middle school students about their work and/or how they apply math, science, language arts and fine arts skills in their professions. We are creating a list that will be available to MMS teachers so they can invite community members into their classrooms to share their stories and expertise. If your work involves math, science, language arts skills and/or the arts – or an interesting combination of these areas - and you can imagine turning that work into a lesson or speaking with middle schoolers about it, please contact us at MMSHSAinfo@gmail.com!

Let us know your name, profession or skill, what classes you see yourself working with (math, science, social studies, music, etc), cell phone number and email.  We will add you to the spreadsheet and then you may hear from an MMS teacher! This is a first-time effort, so let’s make ourselves available to our community’s kids and see what happens! Thank you MMS Families.

MMS Library Volunteers needed!

I know you all are wondering what goes not over in the mysterious land of MMS...well here is your chance to get a little sneak peek into middle school.  You will not be working in your child's class like in the elementary schools but just helping out in the library in general. Mr. Degnan needs the most help during his MMS investigates class (highlighted in blue on the schedule).  This is a cool class that he teaches and would love a parent to be there to do some projects, filing, man the desk and just be an extra set of eyes and hands. He would love whatever time whenever you can give it but if you can make the MMS Investigates class time that would even be better!  Just type in your name in the spot that you can volunteer. Please do not delete anyone's name that is already there. Library signup https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/170PmsHyDvQG9S2c0e0YJB1y4IMTWJmWplKnPRzvcSV8/edit#gid=1195897959

Musical Updates

Questions?  Contact Ms. O'Sullivan (mosulliv@somsd.k12.nj.us).  For most info visit the musical webpage, https://sites.google.com/site/mmsmusical/

Community Backpack

Click here for the November 2018 flyers!

Superintendent Search

You should have received an email from the district Friday detailing the process for the Superintendent Search. For more information please click here

Special Ed Update

SEPAC Nov 27, 7:30-9:  Meeting is at 525 Academy Street, District meeting room. The Special Education Experience: PreK and Elementary grades, as well as all newcomers to Special Education! An interactive discussion on issues of importance, including how to know what your child needs, advocate for appropriate supports and navigate transition points, will be moderated and informed by SEPAC’s knowledgeable PreK and Elementary School special education liaisons. Dr. Laura Morana, Director of Special Services, is also scheduled to participate.

No Frills and Fundraising

MMS HSA raises funds through an ongoing No Frills fundraiser, Money Maker (Host your own, seed your own) initiatives, Adults only Trivia Night, and other grade specific events during the school year. Without the support of families, we would not be able to provide the supplemental support to the students and staff. To donate now Click Here.

Tissues and School Store

We mentioned on our News on Waffles segment to be on the lookout for TISSUES. It’s already been a busy season of allergies and colds.  If you are at the store and can pick up some extra boxes, the MMS staff would greatly appreciate it! The student council runs a school store and accepts donations, please make sure to send in food allergy compliant snacks. They even have an Amazon Wishlist if getting to the store is too hectic.Click Here for MMS School Store’s Amazon Wishlist

MightyNest

Discover innovative products for a healthy home & earn money for Maplewood Middle School! 

MightyNest's dual mission is to help families create healthy homes AND raise money for each customer's school.  Every product, including reusable lunch gear, body care, cleaning supplies, kitchenwares and more, was handpicked to help families live healthy lives.  To get started, simply join our school fundraiser here then choose your membership type. All members receive Free Shipping and up to 30% off hundreds of MightyNest's durable, safe products. The best part is that you will raise money for our school every month.

The most popular membership is the MightyFix. For $10/month you'll receive one amazing product each month that helps your family live healthier and greener while earning $1 each month for our school. The product is always worth more than $10 retail, ships free and you also get free shipping on anything else you add to your MightyFix.
  • Get your first month of the MightyFix for only $5 when you use promo code SCHOOLFIX5
  • New members who signup for the annual MightyFix subscription earn an extra $8 for our school during the first year, for a total of $20 to our school! If you use the promo code SCHOOLFIX5 you can get a bonus two months free with an annual subscription.
  • Our school must earn $100 by May 31st to earn our payout check, so the sooner you sign up, the better for our school!
Other membership options include healthy body care, natural feminine care, and home essentials. Please check it out!
Gratefully yours,

Deb Holt & Sara Knutsen
MMS HSA Co-Presidents 2018-2019
mmshsainfo@gmail.com
debcatholt@gmail.com
szknutsen@gmail.com

MMS HSA Weekly Update #12

11/18/2018

 
Hello MMS Families -

Last week was certainly an interesting one. Between Thursday’s snowstorm and no school Friday, we imagine everyone is looking forward to school tomorrow. The week is a short one - two full days and ½ day Wednesday. Thursday and Friday the district is closed for Thanksgiving break. All families should have received an email from Dr. Ficarra this weekend. It is an important time in our district as we move forward. We have copied it at the bottom of this eblast below for those who have not received it. Lastly, we wanted to take this time to say thank you to all our amazing families, students and MMS Staff. It is truly a pleasure to be a part of the MMS community.

A Few Key Dates:

11/19  BOE Meeting @ 7:30pm
11/21  7th Grade Block Party
11/21  4 Hr Day - Thanksgiving Break Begins
11/22  No School - Thanksgiving Break
11/23  No School - Thanksgiving Break

HSA eBlast update

Our mailing list is now complete with all families' email information as provided by the District. If you need to update your information please follow the MailChimp links below.

7th Grade Block Party

The 7th graders are having a Block Party on Wednesday, November 21 with games/activities and snacks! We are looking for volunteer chaperones to help the teachers to organize students and move them through the various stations, donated snacks and/or monetary donations (donate via PayPal: click here). The SignUp can be accessed here:https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409084AA5A82DA46-7thgrade

6th Grade Update 

Please see this note from the 6th grade team leaders. This survey is being distributed to collect information on student attendance for a potential field trip for to Ellis Island Thursday, December 20th. Please take a moment to fill out the Google form linked below to help us plan accordingly. Thank you.
https://goo.gl/forms/ZuJ7dGfm0qM83hLs1

Best,
6th Grade Team Leaders

Special Ed Update

November Family Support Group meetings at the BOE Building:

Special Siblings Youth Led Support Group (with Laura Reichgut LCSW), Nov 19, 4-5:30 pm.  BOE Building, 525 Academy, Parenting Center Meeting Room, 3rd floor

For Siblings of People with Special Needs, a free, safe space to talk to other kids who are in the same situation. Grades 5-8, drop off, snack are provided.

Other upcoming Family Support Group meetings at the BOE Building:

Selective Mutism, Nov 20, 7PM
ADD/ADHD, Nov 21, 7:30 PM
SEPAC Nov 27, 7:30-9:  The Special Education Experience: PreK and Elementary grades, as well as all newcomers to Special Education!

An interactive discussion on issues of importance, including how to know what your child needs, advocate for appropriate supports and navigate transition points, will be moderated and informed by SEPAC’s knowledgeable PreK and Elementary School special education liaisons. Dr. Laura Morana, Director of Special Services, is also scheduled to participate.

Letters From Anne and Martin

A dramatic presentation of kindred spirits from parallel worlds - Anne Frank and Martin Luther King Jr. at CHS on December 4.  For more information and to buy tickets, please click here.

Visiting Mentor Program

Thanks to everyone who has been in touch with Rachel Fisher!  The MMS HSA is compiling a list of Visiting Mentors: individuals who will talk to middle school students about their work and/or how they apply math, science, language arts and fine arts skills in their professions. We are creating a list that will be available to MMS teachers so they can invite community members into their classrooms to share their stories and expertise. If your work involves math, science, language arts skills and/or the arts – or an interesting combination of these areas - and you can imagine turning that work into a lesson or speaking with middle schoolers about it, please contact us at MMSHSAinfo@gmail.com!

Let us know your name, profession or skill, what classes you see yourself working with (math, science, social studies, music, etc), cell phone number and email.  We will add you to the spreadsheet and then you may hear from an MMS teacher! This is a first-time effort, so let’s make ourselves available to our community’s kids and see what happens! Thank you MMS Families.

MMS Library Volunteers needed!

I know you all are wondering what goes not over in the mysterious land of MMS...well here is your chance to get a little sneak peek into middle school.  You will not be working in your child's class like in the elementary schools but just helping out in the library in general. Mr. Degnan needs the most help during his MMS investigates class (highlighted in blue on the schedule).  This is a cool class that he teaches and would love a parent to be there to do some projects, filing, man the desk and just be an extra set of eyes and hands. He would love whatever time whenever you can give it but if you can make the MMS Investigates class time that would even be better!  Just type in your name in the spot that you can volunteer. Please do not delete anyone's name that is already there. Library signup https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/170PmsHyDvQG9S2c0e0YJB1y4IMTWJmWplKnPRzvcSV8/edit#gid=1195897959

Musical Updates 

Questions?  Contact Ms. O'Sullivan (mosulliv@somsd.k12.nj.us).  For most info visit the musical webpage,https://sites.google.com/site/mmsmusical/Community Backpack

Click here for the November 2018 flyers!

Superintendent Search
You should have received an email from the district Friday detailing the process for the Superintendent Search. For more information please click here

No Frills and Fundraising

MMS HSA raises funds through an ongoing No Frills fundraiser, Money Maker (Host your own, seed your own) initiatives, Adults only Trivia Night, and other grade specific events during the school year. Without the support of families, we would not be able to provide the supplemental support to the students and staff. To donate now Click Here.

Tissues and School Store

We mentioned on our News on Waffles segment to be on the lookout for TISSUES. It’s already been a busy season of allergies and colds.  If you are at the store and can pick up some extra boxes, the MMS staff would greatly appreciate it! The student council runs a school store and accepts donations, please make sure to send in food allergy compliant snacks. They even have an Amazon Wishlist if getting to the store is too hectic.Click Here for MMS School Store’s Amazon Wishlist

MightyNest

Discover innovative products for a healthy home & earn money for Maplewood Middle School! 

MightyNest's dual mission is to help families create healthy homes AND raise money for each customer's school.  Every product, including reusable lunch gear, body care, cleaning supplies, kitchenwares and more, was handpicked to help families live healthy lives.  To get started, simply join our school fundraiser here then choose your membership type. All members receive Free Shipping and up to 30% off hundreds of MightyNest's durable, safe products. The best part is that you will raise money for our school every month.

The most popular membership is the MightyFix. For $10/month you'll receive one amazing product each month that helps your family live healthier and greener while earning $1 each month for our school. The product is always worth more than $10 retail, ships free and you also get free shipping on anything else you add to your MightyFix.
  • Get your first month of the MightyFix for only $5 when you use promo code SCHOOLFIX5
  • New members who signup for the annual MightyFix subscription earn an extra $8 for our school during the first year, for a total of $20 to our school! If you use the promo code SCHOOLFIX5 you can get a bonus two months free with an annual subscription.
  • Our school must earn $100 by May 31st to earn our payout check, so the sooner you sign up, the better for our school!
Other membership options include healthy body care, natural feminine care, and home essentials. Please check it out!

Dr. Ficarra Weekend Email

Dear SOMSD Community,

At their meeting on Monday, November 19, 2018, the Board of Education will vote on the Superintendent’s recommendations for the Long Range Facilities Plan. The agenda is available here. You can attend the meeting, or watch it via livestream.

Part of the plan includes expansion to meet our growing enrollment, and to replace the classrooms which will be lost when we remove the decaying portables from our elementary schools.  During the development process, the District has considered a number of different possible configurations, weighing the educational benefits of each as well as the feasibility and cost given our existing buildings. We also solicited input from the community and staff during several months of interacting with the community to explain the initial plan and collect feedback at small and large meetings. The Board of Education held several sessions with the Board of School Estimate, which has the taxing authority for to discuss the plan as it was being developed as well. Extensive community feedback factored in to the Superintendent’s final recommendations to the Board, which were presented at the October 15, 2018, meeting, and discussed further at a special session on November 7, 2018.

The Superintendent is recommending the following:
  • $93.1M in Health and Safety Renovations
  • $38.8M for Expansion, with a K-5/6-8/9-12 configuration

In addition to the Superintendent's recommendations for $93.1M in health and safety renovations and $38.8M for  K-5/6-8/9-12 facility expansion, the Board will also be asked to vote on the options listed below at Monday's meeting. The vote is to authorize the architect to submit the projects to the Department for Education for review and approval. The Board will make a final decision to request funding for these projects at a later date after the Department of Education reviews the projects.
Superintendent's recommendations:

  • $93.1M in Health and Safety Renovations
  • $38.8M for Expansion, with a K-5/6-8/9-12 configuration

Additional options:
  • $3.6M to Expand Pre-School
  • $15.2M to Add A/C to Schools
  • $1.2M to Replace Turf at Underhill Field
  • $0.6M on Observatory/Planetarium
  • $2.4M to Reinforce Slate Roofs for Solar Panel Installation
  • $20.6M to Reinforce Flat Roofs for Solar Panel Installation
  • ​
The District expects to go out for bonding in early 2019.
South Orange Maplewood School District
 
Gratefully yours,


Deb Holt & Sara Knutsen
MMS HSA Co-Presidents 2018-2019
mmshsainfo@gmail.com
debcatholt@gmail.com
szknutsen@gmail.com

MMS HSA Weekly Update #11

11/12/2018

 
Hello MMS Families -

We have a full week ahead following a short but exciting election and teacher convention week. We wanted to thank our amazing Event chairs - Lisa Schnorr and Mel Rose - who took the time from their day on Tuesday and surprised our teachers on their Professional Development Day with the MMS HSA “Woot Woot” cart, there was even an appearance by the MMS Cougar. We are so lucky to have such dedicated and enthusiastic families at MMS. On that note, next week is the BOE meeting, if you know of a student that should be recognized please read the blurb below and make sure to tell Ms. Gronau!

HSA eBlast update:  Our mailing list is now complete with all families' email information as provided by the District. If you need to update your information please follow the MailChimp links below. 

A Few Key Dates:

11/13  8th Grade Photos and Club Photos
11/14  Class Picture Retakes
11/19  BOE Meeting @ 7:30pm
11/21  7th Grade Block Party
11/21  4 Hr Day - Thanksgiving Break Begins
11/22  No School - Thanksgiving Break
11/23  No School - Thanksgiving Break

We would love to hear more from you. See below for ways to give us your feedback;

About your Student? Each month the Board of Education recognizes students who have done something extraordinary. We would love to hear about what your student is doing and make sure recognition is given. We know there are more students to recognize, don’t be shy! If you know a student who deserves recognition - in or out of school -  please contact Principal Gronau at dgronau@somsd.k12.nj.us.

About MMS?  We have heard from a few families and would love to hear more! Do you have a positive story about MMS or the Principal and staff?  We’d love to hear them and post on our Facebook page. We are so excited with all of the terrific feedback we’ve been hearing since school started and thought it would be fun to share some of the stories with the rest of the MMS community!  Please send to Deb or Sara at:debcatholt@gmail.com or szknutsen@gmail.com.

Photos and Retakes

November 13 - 8th grade photos, club photos, faculty photos
November 14 - make-up photos.  Please have your student bring the original photo.  If you have any questions, please contact Lors Studio:  www.lorsstudio.com or (908)964-3040.

7th Grade Block Party

7th Grade Block Party! The 7th graders are having a Block Party on Wednesday, November 21 with games/activities and snacks! We are looking for volunteer chaperones to help the teachers to organize students and move them through the various stations, donated snacks and/or monetary donations (donate via PayPal: click here).  The SignUp can be accessed here:  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409084AA5A82DA46-7thgrade

6th Grade Update 

Please see this note from the 6th grade team leaders. This survey is being distributed to collect information on student attendance for a potential field trip for to Ellis Island Thursday, December 20th. Please take a moment to fill out the Google form linked below to help us plan accordingly. Thank you.
https://goo.gl/forms/ZuJ7dGfm0qM83hLs1
Best,
6th Grade Team Leaders

Special Ed Update

November Family Support Group meetings at the BOE Building:
Screen Smart Kids, Nov 12, 7PM
Special Siblings Nov 19, 4-5:30
Selective Mutism, Nov 20, 7PM
ADD/ADHD, Nov 21, 7:30 PM
SEPAC Nov 27, 7:30-9:  The Special Education Experience: PreK and Elementary grades, as well as all newcomers to Special Education!

An interactive discussion on issues of importance, including how to know what your child needs, advocate for appropriate supports and navigate transition points, will be moderated and informed by SEPAC’s knowledgeable PreK and Elementary School special education liaisons. Dr. Laura Morana, Director of Special Services, is also scheduled to participate.

Letters From Anne and Martin

A dramatic presentation of kindred spirits from parallel worlds - Anne Frank and Martin Luther King Jr. at CHS on December 4.  For more information and to buy tickets, please click here

Beyond Measure

A film of inspiring stories from the forefront of innovation in education from the makers of Race to Nowhere.  A screening of the film and discussion facilitated by Ann Bodnar, Principal, Clinton Elementary.   November 15, 7:30 pm at Clinton Elementary School. Click here for more info.

Visiting Mentor Program

Thanks to everyone who has been in touch with Rachel Fisher!  The MMS HSA is compiling a list of Visiting Mentors: individuals who will talk to middle school students about their work and/or how they apply math, science, language arts and fine arts skills in their professions. We are creating a list that will be available to MMS teachers so they can invite community members into their classrooms to share their stories and expertise.

If your work involves math, science, language arts skills and/or the arts – or an interesting combination of these areas - and you can imagine turning that work into a lesson or speaking with middle schoolers about it, please contact us at MMSHSAinfo@gmail.com!

Let us know your name, profession or skill, what classes you see yourself working with (math, science, social studies, music, etc), cell phone number and email.  We will add you to the spreadsheet and then you may hear from an MMS teacher! This is a first-time effort, so let’s make ourselves available to our community’s kids and see what happens! Thank you MMS Families.

MLKA Club and MMS Step Team

Interested in joining the MLKA Club? Did you know MMS had a new Step Team? See Ms. Ogando in room 18. The Club meets every Thursday at 3:15pm. Click here for more info.

MMS Library Volunteers needed!

I know you all are wondering what goes not over in the mysterious land of MMS...well here is your chance to get a little sneak peek into middle school.  You will not be working in your child's class like in the elementary schools but just helping out in the library in general. Mr. Degnan needs the most help during his MMS investigates class (highlighted in blue on the schedule).  This is a cool class that he teaches and would love a parent to be there to do some projects, filing, man the desk and just be an extra set of eyes and hands. He would love whatever time whenever you can give it but if you can make the MMS Investigates class time that would even be better!  Just type in your name in the spot that you can volunteer. Please do not delete anyone's name that is already there.

Library signup https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/170PmsHyDvQG9S2c0e0YJB1y4IMTWJmWplKnPRzvcSV8/edit#gid=1195897959

Musical Updates 

Questions?  Contact Ms. O'Sullivan (mosulliv@somsd.k12.nj.us).  For most info visit the musical webpage, https://sites.google.com/site/mmsmusical/

Community Backpack

Click here for the November 2018 flyers!

Superintendent Search

​You should have received an email from the district Friday detailing the process for the Superintendent Search. For more information please click here

No Frills and Fundraising

MMS HSA raises funds through an ongoing No Frills fundraiser, Money Maker (Host your own, seed your own) initiatives, Adults only Trivia Night, and other grade specific events during the school year. Without the support of families, we would not be able to provide the supplemental support to the students and staff. To donate now Click Here.

Tissues and School Store

We mentioned on our News on Waffles segment to be on the lookout for TISSUES. It’s already been a busy season of allergies and colds.  If you are at the store and can pick up some extra boxes, the MMS staff would greatly appreciate it! The student council runs a school store and accepts donations, please make sure to send in food allergy compliant snacks. They even have an Amazon Wishlist if getting to the store is too hectic.Click Here for MMS School Store’s Amazon Wishlist

MightyNest

Discover innovative products for a healthy home & earn money for Maplewood Middle School! 

MightyNest's dual mission is to help families create healthy homes AND raise money for each customer's school.  Every product, including reusable lunch gear, body care, cleaning supplies, kitchenwares and more, was handpicked to help families live healthy lives.  To get started, simply join our school fundraiser here then choose your membership type. All members receive Free Shipping and up to 30% off hundreds of MightyNest's durable, safe products. The best part is that you will raise money for our school every month.

The most popular membership is the MightyFix. For $10/month you'll receive one amazing product each month that helps your family live healthier and greener while earning $1 each month for our school. The product is always worth more than $10 retail, ships free and you also get free shipping on anything else you add to your MightyFix.
  • Get your first month of the MightyFix for only $5 when you use promo code SCHOOLFIX5
  • New members who signup for the annual MightyFix subscription earn an extra $8 for our school during the first year, for a total of $20 to our school! If you use the promo code SCHOOLFIX5 you can get a bonus two months free with an annual subscription.
  • Our school must earn $100 by May 31st to earn our payout check, so the sooner you sign up, the better for our school!
Other membership options include healthy body care, natural feminine care, and home essentials. Please check it out!


Gratefully yours,
Deb Holt & Sara Knutsen
MMS HSA Co-Presidents 2018-2019
mmshsainfo@gmail.com
debcatholt@gmail.com
szknutsen@gmail.com

MMS HSA Weekly Update #10

11/7/2018

 
Hello MMS Families!

We have a short week coming up, and lots of information in this eblast.  We hope you have had a great weekend and will get out to vote -- our District has an important BOE election on Tuesday.

A Few Key Dates:

11/6      No School - Staff development, Election Day
11/8      No school - NJEA Convention
11/9      No school - NJEA Convention
11/21    7th Grade Block Party

We would love to hear more from you. See below for ways to give us your feedback:

About your Student? Each month the Board of Education recognizes students who have done something extraordinary. We would love to hear about what your student is doing and make sure recognition is given. We know there are more students to recognize, don’t be shy! If you know a student who deserves recognition - in or out of school -  please contact Principal Gronau at dgronau@somsd.k12.nj.us.

About MMS?  Do you have a positive story about MMS or the Principal and staff?  We’d love to hear them and post on our Facebook page. We are so excited with all of the terrific feedback we’ve been hearing since school started and thought it would be fun to share some of the stories with the rest of the MMS community!  Please send to Deb or Sara at:debcatholt@gmail.com or szknutsen@gmail.com.

Photos and Retakes

November 13 - 8th grade photos, club photos, faculty photos
November 14 - make-up photos.  Please have your student bring the original photo.  If you have any questions, please contact Lors Studio:  www.lorsstudio.com or (908)964-3040.

Special Ed Update

Upcoming Family Support Group meeting, with Mr. Stoudemire & Nurse Porter, Monday, November 5th.

Navigating the Middle School Years- Cliques, Squads , Bullying & More

Nov 5, 7:30-9 (BOE building, 525 Academy St, First Monday of each month)

Parents will discuss and practice with the School Social Worker and School Nurse how to take care of their children, themselves, and each other as they parent teens in Middle School. We’ll explore strategies on how to support, guide, and direct children to succeed in Middle School - to be ready to face the day and have enough resilience to get through it. Questions? Please contact Eric Stoudemire, MMS School Social Workerestoudem@somsd.k12.nj.us or Julie Porter, MMS School Nursejporter@somsd.k12.nj.us

Also in November at the BOE Building:

Screen Smart Kids, Nov 12, 7PM
Special Siblings Nov 19, 4-5:30
Selective Mutism, Nov 20, 7PM
ADD/ADHD, Nov 21, 7:30 PM
SEPAC Nov 27 (focus is Preschoolers & newcomers to SEPAC)

Letters From Anne and Martin

A dramatic presentation of kindred spirits from parallel worlds - Anne Frank and Martin Luther King Jr. at CHS on December 4.  For more information and to buy tickets, please click here.

Beyond Measure

A film of inspiring stories from the forefront of innovation in education from the makers of Race to Nowhere.  A screening of the film and discussion facilitated by Ann Bodnar, Principal, Clinton Elementary.  November 15, 7:30 pm at Clinton Elementary School. Click here for more information.

Visiting Mentor Program

Thanks to everyone who has been in touch with Rachel Fisher!  The MMS HSA is compiling a list of Visiting Mentors: individuals who will talk to middle school students about their work and/or how they apply math, science, language arts and fine arts skills in their professions. We are creating a list that will be available to MMS teachers so they can invite community members into their classrooms to share their stories and expertise.

If your work involves math, science, language arts skills and/or the arts – or an interesting combination of these areas - and you can imagine turning that work into a lesson or speaking with middle schoolers about it, please contact us at MMSHSAinfo@gmail.com!

Let us know your name, profession or skill, what classes you see yourself working with (math, science, social studies, music, etc), cell phone number and email.  We will add you to the spreadsheet and then you may hear from an MMS teacher! This is a first-time effort, so let’s make ourselves available to our community’s kids and see what happens! Thank you MMS Families.

MLKA Club and MMS Step Team

Interested in joining the MLKA Club? Did you know MMS had a new Step Team? See Ms. Ogando in room 18. The Club meets every Thursday at 3:15pm. Click here for more info.

MMS Library Volunteers needed!

I know you all are wondering what goes on over in the mysterious land of MMS...well here is your chance to get a little sneak peek into middle school.  You will not be working in your child's class like in the elementary schools but just helping out in the library in general. Mr. Degnan needs the most help during his MMS investigates class (highlighted in blue on the schedule).  This is a cool class that he teaches and would love a parent to be there to do some projects, filing, man the desk and just be an extra set of eyes and hands. He would love whatever time whenever you can give it but if you can make the MMS Investigates class time that would even be better!  Just type in your name in the spot that you can volunteer. Please do not delete anyone's name that is already there. 

Library signup https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/170PmsHyDvQG9S2c0e0YJB1y4IMTWJmWplKnPRzvcSV8/edit#gid=1195897959

Musical Updates

Questions?  Contact Ms. O'Sullivan (mosulliv@somsd.k12.nj.us).  For most info visit the musical webpage, https://sites.google.com/site/mmsmusical/

Community Backpack

Click here for the November 2018 flyers!
Superintendent Search
You should have received an email from the district Friday detailing the process for the Superintendent Search. For more information please click here.

No Frills and Fundraising

MMS HSA raises funds through an ongoing No Frills fundraiser, Money Maker (Host your own, seed your own) initiatives, Adults only Trivia Night, and other grade specific events during the school year. Without the support of families, we would not be able to provide the supplemental support to the students and staff. To donate now Click Here.

Tissues and School Store

We mentioned on our News on Waffles segment to be on the lookout for TISSUES. It’s already been a busy season of allergies and colds.  If you are at the store and can pick up some extra boxes, the MMS staff would greatly appreciate it! The student council runs a school store and accepts donations, please make sure to send in food allergy compliant snacks. They even have an Amazon Wishlist if getting to the store is too hectic.Click Here for MMS School Store’s Amazon Wishlist

MightyNest

Discover innovative products for a healthy home & earn money for Maplewood Middle School! 

MightyNest's dual mission is to help families create healthy homes AND raise money for each customer's school.  Every product, including reusable lunch gear, body care, cleaning supplies, kitchenware and more, was handpicked to help families live healthy lives.  To get started, simply join our school fundraiser here then choose your membership type. All members receive Free Shipping and up to 30% off hundreds of MightyNest's durable, safe products. The best part is that you will raise money for our school every month.

The most popular membership is the MightyFix. For $10/month you'll receive one amazing product each month that helps your family live healthier and greener while earning $1 each month for our school. The product is always worth more than $10 retail, ships free and you also get free shipping on anything else you add to your MightyFix.
  • Get your first month of the MightyFix for only $5 when you use promo code SCHOOLFIX5
  • New members who signup for the annual MightyFix subscription earn an extra $8 for our school during the first year, for a total of $20 to our school! If you use the promo code SCHOOLFIX5 you can get a bonus two months free with an annual subscription.
  • Our school must earn $100 by May 31st to earn our payout check, so the sooner you sign up, the better for our school!
Other membership options include healthy body care, natural feminine care, and home essentials. Please check it out!

Varsity Orchestras through the South Orange Maplewood Adult School!
Don’t miss this chance for your young musician to make music with their peers in an encouraging, inclusive and inspiring environment, led by talented and engaging instructors who have deep experience working with children. Designed to augment the school music instruction, our orchestras allow young musicians to develop their musical talent, experience being part of an ensemble, learn about music theory, grow friendships with other young musicians, and perform at our twice-yearly concerts. Orchestras meet one evening a week at Columbia High School. Register online at the SOMAS website.


Gratefully yours,

​Deb Holt & Sara Knutsen
MMS HSA Co-Presidents 2018-2019

mmshsainfo@gmail.com
debcatholt@gmail.com
szknutsen@gmail.com

MMS HSA Weekly Update #9

11/7/2018

 
Hello MMS Families!

We are enjoying the fall weather and hope you are too!

Speaking of Fall, FALL FEST IS THIS WEEKEND!!!  

Come to O’Reillys this Saturday night (11/3) and have fun with other MMS parents, all while supporting your MMS HSA! Enjoy delicious bar food, cash bar and fun friends. It’s sure to be a great night! Click here to order your tickets!  

We are also still in full outreach for our Membership Drive and No Frills Fundraiser, please consider joining and donating if you have not already.  To learn more about your MMS HSA, how to get involved, or to donate,PLEASE click here!

A Few Key Dates:

11/3    Fall Fest -Parents/Guardians Night Out @ O’Reilly’s
11/6    No School - Staff Development
11/8    No school - NJEA Convention
11/9    No school - NJEA Convention
11/21  7th Grade Block Party

We would love to hear more from you. See below for ways to give us your feedback;
  • About your Student? Each month the Board of Education recognizes students who have done something extraordinary. We would love to hear about what your student is doing and make sure recognition is given. We know there are more students to recognize, don’t be shy! If you know a student who deserves recognition - in or out of school -  please contact Principal Gronau at dgronau@somsd.k12.nj.us.
  • About MMS?  Do you have a positive story about MMS or the Principal and staff?  We’d love to hear them and post on our Facebook page. We are so excited with all of the terrific feedback we’ve been hearing since school started and thought it would be fun to share some of the stories with the rest of the MMS community! Please send to Deb or Sara at: debcatholt@gmail.com orszknutsen@gmail.com.
Photos

November 13 - 8th grade photos, club photos, faculty photos
November 14 - make-up photos

Visiting Mentor Program

Thanks to everyone who has been in touch with Rachel Fisher!  The MMS HSA is compiling a list of Visiting Mentors: individuals who will talk to middle school students about their work and/or how they apply math, science, language arts and fine arts skills in their professions. We are creating a list that will be available to MMS teachers so they can invite community members into their classrooms to share their stories and expertise.

If your work involves math, science, language arts skills and/or the arts – or an interesting combination of these areas - and you can imagine turning that work into a lesson or speaking with middle schoolers about it, please contact us at MMSHSAinfo@gmail.com!

Let us know your name, profession or skill, what classes you see yourself working with (math, science, social studies, music, etc), cell phone number and email.  We will add you to the spreadsheet and then you may hear from an MMS teacher! This is a first-time effort, so let’s make ourselves available to our community’s kids and see what happens! Thank you MMS Families.

MLKA Club and MMS Step Team

Interested in joining the MLKA Club? Did you know MMS had a new Step Team? See Ms. Ogando in room 18. The Club meets every Thursday at 3:15pm. Click here for more info.

MMS Library Volunteers Needed!

I know you all are wondering what goes not over in the mysterious land of MMS...well here is your chance to get a little sneak peek into middle school.  You will not be working in your child's class like in the elementary schools but just helping out in the library in general. Mr. Degnan needs the most help during his MMS investigates class (highlighted in blue on the schedule).  This is a cool class that he teaches and would love a parent to be there to do some projects, filing, man the desk and just be an extra set of eyes and hands. He would love whatever time whenever you can give it but if you can make the MMS Investigates class time that would even be better!  Just type in your name in the spot that you can volunteer. Please do not delete anyone's name that is already there.

Library signup https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/170PmsHyDvQG9S2c0e0YJB1y4IMTWJmWplKnPRzvcSV8/edit#gid=1195897959

Musical Updates

Questions?  Contact Ms. O'Sullivan (mosulliv@somsd.k12.nj.us)  11/1 & 11/2 will be the first two days of Stage Crew auditions. For most info visit the musical webpage, https://sites.google.com/site/mmsmusical/

Special Ed Update
Upcoming Family Support Group meetings,all meetings at the BOE Building, 525 Academy St unless otherwise noted:
  • Screen Smart Kids: October 29 - Are you considering giving your child their first smart phone? or have you recently? Learn how to work together with your child to set up a ‘cell phone contract’ that best suits your family’s needs. Screen Smart Kids is a support group for parents who are interested in exploring the ways in which technology, smart phones and social media are impacting their kids’ developing minds. This group will equip families to best address the challenges of our technology immersive culture. Questions? Contact Claire Kaplan claireskb@gmail.com or Stephanie Bourgeois
  • Navigating the Middle School Years- Cliques, Squads , Bullying & More Nov 5, 7:30-9 (First Monday of each month) Parents will discuss and practice with the School Social Worker and School Nurse how to take care of their children, themselves, and each other as they parent teens in Middle School. We’ll explore strategies on how to support, guide, and direct children to succeed in Middle School - to be ready to face the day and have enough resilience to get through it. Questions? Please contact Eric Stoudemire, MMS School Social Worker estoudem@somsd.k12.nj.us or Julie Porter, MMS School Nursejporter@somsd.k12.nj.us

Superintendent Search

You should have received an email from the district Friday detailing the process for the Superintendent Search. For more information please click here

Tissues and School Store

We mentioned on our News on Waffles segment to be on the lookout for TISSUES. It’s already been a busy season of allergies and colds.  If you are at the store and can pick up some extra boxes, the MMS staff would greatly appreciate it! The student council runs a school store and accepts donations, please make sure to send in food allergy compliant snacks. They even have an Amazon Wishlist if getting to the store is too hectic.Click Here for MMS School Store’s Amazon Wishlist

No Frills and Fundraising

MMS HSA raises funds through an ongoing No Frills fundraiser, Money Maker (Host your own, seed your own) initiatives, Adults only Trivia Night, and other grade specific events during the school year. Without the support of families, we would not be able to provide the supplemental support to the students and staff. To donate now Click Here.

Parent’s and Guardian’s Night Out -  Please save the date for our Fall Fest, an Adult Night Out at O’Reilly’s on November 3rd. Join us for a low key, FUNdraiser to help support our school - and have some delicious wings while you are at it. Buy your tickets today Click here for more info

MightyNest

Discover innovative products for a healthy home & earn money for Maplewood Middle School!

MightyNest's dual mission is to help families create healthy homes AND raise money for each customer's school.  Every product, including reusable lunch gear, body care, cleaning supplies, kitchenwares and more, was handpicked to help families live healthy lives.  To get started, simply join our school fundraiser here then choose your membership type. All members receive Free Shipping and up to 30% off hundreds of MightyNest's durable, safe products. The best part is that you will raise money for our school every month.

The most popular membership is the MightyFix. For $10/month you'll receive one amazing product each month that helps your family live healthier and greener while earning $1 each month for our school. The product is always worth more than $10 retail, ships free and you also get free shipping on anything else you add to your MightyFix.
  • Get your first month of the MightyFix for only $5 when you use promo code SCHOOLFIX5
  • New members who signup for the annual MightyFix subscription earn an extra $8 for our school during the first year, for a total of $20 to our school! If you use the promo code SCHOOLFIX5 you can get a bonus two months free with an annual subscription.
  • Our school must earn $100 by May 31st to earn our payout check, so the sooner you sign up, the better for our school!
Other membership options include healthy body care, natural feminine care, and home essentials. Please check it out!
Varsity Orchestras through the South Orange Maplewood Adult School!
Don’t miss this chance for your young musician to make music with their peers in an encouraging, inclusive and inspiring environment, led by talented and engaging instructors who have deep experience working with children. Designed to augment the school music instruction, our orchestras allow young musicians to develop their musical talent, experience being part of an ensemble, learn about music theory, grow friendships with other young musicians, and perform at our twice-yearly concerts. Orchestras meet one evening a week at Columbia High School. Register online at the SOMAS website.

Gratefully yours,

​Deb Holt & Sara Knutsen
MMS HSA Co-Presidents 2018-2019
mmshsainfo@gmail.com
debcatholt@gmail.com
szknutsen@gmail.com

MMS HSA Weekly Update #8

11/7/2018

 
Hello MMS Families!

What a wonderful fall weekend. We hope everyone had a great one. Please save the date for our Fall Fest, an Adult Night Out at O’Reilly’s on November 3rd. Join us for a low key, FUNdraiser to help support our school - and have some delicious wings while you are at it. Buy your tickets today! Click here for more info and here to buy tickets.   We are also still in full outreach for our Membership Drive and No Frills Fundraiser, please consider joining and donating if you have not already.  To learn more about your MMS HSA, how to get involved, or to donate, PLEASE click here!

A few key dates:
10/26    6th Grade Canteen/Social 3:15-5pm
11/3      Fall Fest -Parents/Guardians Night Out @ O’Reilly’s
11/6      No School - Staff development
11/8      No school - NJEA Convention
11/9      No school - NJEA Convention
11/21   7th Grade Block Party

We would love to hear more from you. See below for ways to give us your feedback;
About your Student? Each month the Board of Education recognizes students who have done something extraordinary. We would love to hear about what your student is doing and make sure recognition is given. We know there are more students to recognize, don’t be shy! If you know a student who deserves recognition - in or out of school -  please contact Principal Gronau at dgronau@somsd.k12.nj.us.

About MMS?  Do you have a positive story about MMS or the Principal and staff?  We’d love to hear them and post on our Facebook page. We are so excited with all of the terrific feedback we’ve been hearing since school started and thought it would be fun to share some of the stories with the rest of the MMS community!  Please send to Deb or Sara at:debcatholt@gmail.com or szknutsen@gmail.com.

6th Grade Canteen Social 
Save the date for the 6th grade canteen! 
     FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26 3:15 - 5:00PM
     DJ!! OPEN GYM!! SNACKS!!
$5 includes admission, slice of pizza and drink.  Additional snacks available for purchase. Tickets on sale this week at lunch 10/24, 10/25/ 10/26...AND ONLINE - new this year!!
Please note: Lunchtime sales are cash only - PayPal option available online HERE. Signed permission slip (paper or online) required for all students.
Volunteer here https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409094DAFA72FA1FB6-6thgrade 

Visiting Mentor Program
Thanks to everyone who has been in touch with Rachel Fisher!  The MMS HSA is compiling a list of Visiting Mentors: individuals who will talk to middle school students about their work and/or how they apply math, science, language arts and fine arts skills in their professions. We are creating a list that will be available to MMS teachers so they can invite community members into their classrooms to share their stories and expertise.

If your work involves math, science, language arts skills and/or the arts – or an interesting combination of these areas - and you can imagine turning that work into a lesson or speaking with middle schoolers about it, please contact us at MMSHSAinfo@gmail.com!

Let us know your name, profession or skill, what classes you see yourself working with (math, science, social studies, music, etc), cell phone number and email.  We will add you to the spreadsheet and then you may hear from an MMS teacher! This is a first-time effort, so let’s make ourselves available to our community’s kids and see what happens! Thank you MMS Families.

MLKA Club and MMS Step Team
Interested in joining the MLKA Club? Did you know MMS had a new Step Team? See Ms. Ogando in room 18. The Club meets every Thursday at 3:15pm. Click here for more info and the Club Permission slip is HERE. 

MMS Library Volunteers needed!
I know you all are wondering what goes not over in the mysterious land of MMS...well here is your chance to get a little sneak peek into middle school.  You will not be working in your child's class like in the elementary schools but just helping out in the library in general. Mr. Degnan needs the most help during his MMS investigates class (highlighted in blue on the schedule).  This is a cool class that he teaches and would love a parent to be there to do some projects, filing, man the desk and just be an extra set of eyes and hands. He would love whatever time whenever you can give it but if you can make the MMS Investigates class time that would even be better!  Just type in your name in the spot that you can volunteer. Please do not delete anyone's name that is already there.
Library signup https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/170PmsHyDvQG9S2c0e0YJB1y4IMTWJmWplKnPRzvcSV8/edit#gid=1195897959

Musical Updates 

At this point any interested MMS students should have completed their dancing and acting auditions.  
We continue this week with more singing auditions and then start callbacks.
The cast list will be posted on 10/26.  Questions? Contact Ms. O'Sullivan (mosulliv@somsd.k12.nj.us)
10/25 (3:15 pm - 4:00 pm in the auditorium) is a mandatory meeting for all Art Crew and all auditioning Stage Crew.  11/1 & 11/2 will be the first two days of Stage Crew auditions. For most info visit the musical webpage,https://sites.google.com/site/mmsmusical/

Special Ed Update
SEPAC IEP Binder meeting with Understood.org, Oct 24, 7:30-9 PM, features a presentation by Understood.org on creating an IEP binder. This takes place at Montrose school (click here to register, event is free, registration is to reserve a binder:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/understoodorg-iep-binder-building-workshop-tickets-50575115532?ref=eios&aff=eios)

Upcoming Family Support Group meetings:

(All meetings at the BOE Building, 525 Academy St, unless otherwise noted):
  • Screen Smart Kids: October 29 - Are you considering giving your child their first smart phone? or have you recently? Learn how to work together with your child to set up a ‘cell phone contract’ that best suits your family’s needs. Screen Smart Kids is a support group for parents who are interested in exploring the ways in which technology, smart phones and social media are impacting their kids’ developing minds. This group will equip families to best address the challenges of our technology immersive culture. Questions? Contact Claire Kaplan claireskb@gmail.com or Stephanie Bourgeois
  • Navigating the Middle School Years- Cliques, Squads , Bullying & More Nov 5, 7:30-9 (First Monday of each month) Parents will discuss and practice with the School Social Worker and School Nurse how to take care of their children, themselves, and each other as they parent teens in Middle School. We’ll explore strategies on how to support, guide, and direct children to succeed in Middle School - to be ready to face the day and have enough resilience to get through it. Questions? Please contact Eric Stoudemire, MMS School Social Worker estoudem@somsd.k12.nj.us or Julie Porter, MMS School Nursejporter@somsd.k12.nj.us
Superintendent Search
You should have received an email from the district Friday detailing the process for the Superintendent Search. For more information please click here

Tissues and School Store

We mentioned on our News on Waffles segment to be on the lookout for TISSUES. It’s already been a busy season of allergies and colds.  If you are at the store and can pick up some extra boxes, the MMS staff would greatly appreciate it! The student council runs a school store and accepts donations, please make sure to send in food allergy compliant snacks. They even have an Amazon Wishlist if getting to the store is too hectic.Click Here for MMS School Store’s Amazon Wishlist

No Frills and Fundraising

MMS HSA raises funds through an ongoing No Frills fundraiser, Money Maker (Host your own, seed your own) initiatives, Adults only Trivia Night, and other grade specific events during the school year. Without the support of families, we would not be able to provide the supplemental support to the students and staff. To donate now Click Here.

MightyNest

Discover innovative products for a healthy home & earn money for Maplewood Middle School! 

MightyNest's dual mission is to help families create healthy homes AND raise money for each customer's school.  Every product, including reusable lunch gear, body care, cleaning supplies, kitchenwares and more, was handpicked to help families live healthy lives.  To get started, simply join our school fundraiser here then choose your membership type. All members receive Free Shipping and up to 30% off hundreds of MightyNest's durable, safe products. The best part is that you will raise money for our school every month.

The most popular membership is the MightyFix. For $10/month you'll receive one amazing product each month that helps your family live healthier and greener while earning $1 each month for our school. The product is always worth more than $10 retail, ships free and you also get free shipping on anything else you add to your MightyFix.
  • Get your first month of the MightyFix for only $5 when you use promo code SCHOOLFIX5
  • New members who signup for the annual MightyFix subscription earn an extra $8 for our school during the first year, for a total of $20 to our school! If you use the promo code SCHOOLFIX5 you can get a bonus two months free with an annual subscription.
  • Our school must earn $100 by May 31st to earn our payout check, so the sooner you sign up, the better for our school!
Other membership options include healthy body care, natural feminine care, and home essentials. Please check it out!
​
Varsity Orchestras through the South Orange Maplewood Adult School!
Don’t miss this chance for your young musician to make music with their peers in an encouraging, inclusive and inspiring environment, led by talented and engaging instructors who have deep experience working with children. Designed to augment the school music instruction, our orchestras allow young musicians to develop their musical talent, experience being part of an ensemble, learn about music theory, grow friendships with other young musicians, and perform at our twice-yearly concerts. Orchestras meet one evening a week at Columbia High School. Register online at the SOMAS website.

Gratefully yours,
 Deb Holt & Sara Knutsen
MMS HSA Co-Presidents 2018-2019
mmshsainfo@gmail.com
debcatholt@gmail.com
szknutsen@gmail.com

MMS HSA Weekly Update #7

10/14/2018

 
Hello MMS Families!

We hope you had a wonderful weekend enjoying the fall weather. We have a full week of school this week and this week is also a busy one, from BOE Meetings to Back to School Night for 504/IEP Students, to MMS Musical Auditions to Superintendent Searches. No matter what your position might be, the district is facing many changes and we encourage all families to get involved, support your choices and exercise your right to vote!

Thanks to everyone who has volunteered so far for our MMS Bathroom Inspiration Project… Great News, we have a chairperson - Thank you to Zakiyyah Hasan for stepping up. We also have a handful of volunteers already, but if you want to get involved it’s not too late, please let Zakiyyah know at thegreatestchef@gmail.com!

We are in full outreach for our Membership Drive and No Frills Fundraiser, please consider joining and donating if you have not already.  To learn more about your MMS HSA, how to get involved, or to donate, PLEASE click here!

A Few Key Dates:

10/15    BOE Meeting 7:30 - 525 Academy Street
10/15    School Violence Awareness Prevention Week
10/18    Special Ed Back to School Night
10/20    Day in Band
10/26    6th Grade Canteen
11/3      Parents/Guardians Night Out! *NEW! Save the date...
11/6      No School - Staff development
11/8      No school - NJEA Convention
11/9      No school - NJEA Convention
11/21    7th Grade Block Party

We would love to hear more from you. See below for ways to give us your feedback;

About your Student? Each month the Board of Education recognizes students who have done something extraordinary. We would love to hear about what your student is doing and make sure recognition is given. We know there are more students to recognize, don’t be shy! If you know a student who deserves recognition - in or out of school -  please contact Principal Gronau at dgronau@somsd.k12.nj.us.

About MMS?  Do you have a positive story about MMS or the Principal and staff?  We’d love to hear them and post on our Facebook page. We are so excited with all of the terrific feedback we’ve been hearing since school started and thought it would be fun to share some of the stories with the rest of the MMS community!  Please send to Deb or Sara at: debcatholt@gmail.com or szknutsen@gmail.com.

School Violence Awareness Prevention Week

MMS is participating in School Violence Awareness Prevention Week. The week students will participate in student centered activities that help them familiarize themselves with other students and create opportunities for a strong student environment. Planned so far is a No Student eats alone Day and It Starts with Hello Day.

Visiting Mentor Program

Thanks to everyone who has been in touch with Rachel Fisher!  The MMS HSA is compiling a list of Visiting Mentors: individuals who will talk to middle school students about their work and/or how they apply math, science, language arts and fine arts skills in their professions. We are creating a list that will be available to MMS teachers so they can invite community members into their classrooms to share their stories and expertise.

If your work involves math, science, language arts skills and/or the arts – or an interesting combination of these areas - and you can imagine turning that work into a lesson or speaking with middle schoolers about it, please contact us at MMSHSAinfo@gmail.com!

Let us know your name, profession or skill, what classes you see yourself working with (math, science, social studies, music, etc), cell phone number and email.  We will add you to the spreadsheet and then you may hear from an MMS teacher! This is a first-time effort, so let’s make ourselves available to our community’s kids and see what happens! Thank you MMS Families.

Day in the Band (CHS)

7th and 8th grade musicians wanted! Mark your calendar for Saturday, October 20 for A Day in the Band, including practice, drill, and lunch with the Columbia High School Cougar Marching Band! This exciting free event is open to all SOMA 7th and 8th graders including musicians, non-players who want to march, future color guard, and kids who just want to be part of the Pride of Columbia (we will train). Sign up here, details to come. GO BAND! https://www.somsd.k12.nj.us/Page/2936

6th Grade Canteen 10/26

Save the date for the most attended 6th grade event of the year. The 6th grade canteen (social) planning is underway. If you are interested in volunteering, please email us at MMSHSAINFO@gmail.com and a grade coordinator will get back to you. The event is immediately after school and tickets go on sale soon.

6th Grade Immunization Document: Did it leave the backpack?

A Note from Julianne Porter, School Nurse
I am happy to report that I have received proof of immunization from 200 sixth graders.  I am looking forward to collecting approximately 89 more! If you sent medical forms via your teen’s backpack, please take a moment to check that the documents were actually removed from the backpack’s deep pockets.

If the medical forms are still in your child’s backpack, please consider the following options for getting them to me: (1) mail to the address below; (2) FAX to the number below; (3) scan to the email below, or (4) hand-deliver to me – I would love to meet you!

Please Note:
·         “Children must meet New Jersey’s immunization requirements to be enrolled in school.  This is the law!” – NJ Department of Health
·         If your child is not eleven years old yet, proof of Immunization is due two weeks after your sixth-grader turns eleven years old
·         Failure to comply with this NJ State regulation may result in the exclusion of your child from school

Thank you for helping to comply with the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services Administrative Code, Chapter 14, which concerns the immunization of students.  The goal is to protect your child and the school community from the spread of communicable disease.

Please feel free to call me with questions, concerns, or hardship.  I am happy to help.

Sincerely,
Julianne Porter, RN, CSN
School Nurse
Maplewood Middle School
7 Burnet Street
Maplewood, NJ 07040
PH   - 973-378-7660 x3009
FAX - 973-378-5247
jporter@somsd.k12.nj.us

Notes from the Teachers:

From Colleen Miller:
I have 6 bean bags in my room, plus a “super bean bag” chair.  I’m wondering if we have any sewing parents who wouldn’t mind sewing me some “pillow cases” for them so I can clean the surfaces easily? I’d even buy the materials!

From Nurse Porter:
Are you an RN looking for a new and rewarding experience with hours that support your family's schedule?  Please consider becoming a Substitute School Nurse for our outstanding SOMSD nurses.  

School nurses support student success by providing health care through assessment, intervention, and follow-up for all children within the school setting. School Nurses increase student attendance, decrease early dismissals, and even save lives.

Please feel free to contact Julie Porter, MMS Nurse and School Nurse Leader, with questions.  You may also go right to Human Resources to pick up a sub packet at the Board of Education Building, 525 Academy Street, Maplewood.

From Anna Herstatt:
Please visit DonorsChoose.org.  Ms. Herstatt is requesting earbuds for my team. Perhaps members of the community might be willing to donate individually or through their company.

Musical Updates 

At this point any interested MMS students should have completed their dancing and acting auditions.  
We continue this week with more singing auditions and then start callbacks.

The cast list will be posted on 10/26.  Questions? Contact Ms. O'Sullivan (mosulliv@somsd.k12.nj.us)

All Art Crew submissions were due on Friday, 10/12.  The Art Crew List will be posted on 10/18. Questions? Contact Mr. Palmgren (rpalmgre@somsd.k12.nj.us)

10/25 (3:15 pm - 4:00 pm in the auditorium) is a mandatory meeting for all Art Crew and all auditioning Stage Crew.  11/1 & 11/2 will be the first two days of Stage Crew auditions.

For most info visit the musical webpage, https://sites.google.com/site/mmsmusical/

Special Ed Update
The Special Education 2018-2019 Back-to-School Night will be held Thursday, October 18, 2018, 7:00pm – 9:00pm in the Columbia High School Auditorium.  The traditional event is being planned to allow for the interaction between parents and members of the child study team. This event is open to everyone who has questions regarding Special Services, your child does not need to already utilize district special services (IEPs or 504s).

Upcoming Family Support Group meetings:

(All meetings at the BOE Building, 525 Academy St unless otherwise noted):
  • Special Siblings: Oct 15, 4-5:30 PM Youth led support group, with Laura Reichgut LCW, for siblings (Grades 5-8) of people with special needs.
Do you ever feel like it is difficult to have a sibling with special needs? Do you sometimes feel like you’re alone, and there isn’t a place to share your thoughts or feelings? SPECIAL SIBLINGS gives you a free, safe space to talk to other kids in the same situation. We have snacks! Please join us!
Parents/Caregivers: These are kids only, drop-off meetings. There is an adult present to help guide and support the discussion. Questions? Emailsomaspsibs@gmail.com
  • Selective Mutism: Oct 16, 7-8:30 PM
  • ADD/ADHD: Oct 17, 7:30-9 PM
  • SEPAC, Oct 24, 7:30-9 PM Features a presentation by Understood.org on creating an IEP binder. This takes place at Montrose school (click here to register, event is free, registration is to reserve a binder. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/understoodorg-iep-binder-building-workshop-tickets-50575115532?ref=eios&aff=eios)
  • Screen Smart Kids: October 29 - Are you considering giving your child their first smart phone? or have you recently? Learn how to work together with your child to set up a ‘cell phone contract’ that best suits your family’s needs. Screen Smart Kids is a support group for parents who are interested in exploring the ways in which technology, smart phones and social media are impacting their kids’ developing minds. This group will equip families to best address the challenges of our technology immersive culture. Questions? Contact Claire Kaplan claireskb@gmail.com or Stephanie Bourgeois
  • Navigating the Middle School Years- Cliques, Squads , Bullying & More Nov 5, 7:30-9 (First Monday of each month) Parents will discuss and practice with the School Social Worker and School Nurse how to take care of their children, themselves, and each other as they parent teens in Middle School. We’ll explore strategies on how to support, guide, and direct children to succeed in Middle School - to be ready to face the day and have enough resilience to get through it. Questions? Please contact Eric Stoudemire, MMS School Social Worker estoudem@somsd.k12.nj.us or Julie Porter, MMS School Nurse jporter@somsd.k12.nj.us
Superintendent Search
You should have received an email from the district Friday detailing the process for the Superintendent Search. For more information please click here

Tissues and School Store

We mentioned on our News on Waffles segment to be on the lookout for TISSUES. It’s already been a busy season of allergies and colds.  If you are at the store and can pick up some extra boxes, the MMS staff would greatly appreciate it! The student council runs a school store and accepts donations, please make sure to send in food allergy compliant snacks. They even have an Amazon Wishlist if getting to the store is too hectic.Click Here for MMS School Store’s Amazon Wishlist

No Frills and Fundraising

MMS HSA raises funds through an ongoing No Frills fundraiser, Money Maker (Host your own, seed your own) initiatives, Adults only Trivia Night, and other grade specific events during the school year. Without the support of families, we would not be able to provide the supplemental support to the students and staff. To donate now Click Here.

Parent’s and Guardian’s Night Out - Save the Date 11/3 @ O’Reilly’s

MightyNest

Discover innovative products for a healthy home & earn money for Maplewood Middle School! 

MightyNest's dual mission is to help families create healthy homes AND raise money for each customer's school.  Every product, including reusable lunch gear, body care, cleaning supplies, kitchenwares and more, was handpicked to help families live healthy lives.  To get started, simply join our school fundraiser here then choose your membership type. All members receive Free Shipping and up to 30% off hundreds of MightyNest's durable, safe products. The best part is that you will raise money for our school every month.

The most popular membership is the MightyFix. For $10/month you'll receive one amazing product each month that helps your family live healthier and greener while earning $1 each month for our school. The product is always worth more than $10 retail, ships free and you also get free shipping on anything else you add to your MightyFix.
  • Get your first month of the MightyFix for only $5 when you use promo code SCHOOLFIX5
  • New members who signup for the annual MightyFix subscription earn an extra $8 for our school during the first year, for a total of $20 to our school! If you use the promo code SCHOOLFIX5 you can get a bonus two months free with an annual subscription.
  • Our school must earn $100 by May 31st to earn our payout check, so the sooner you sign up, the better for our school!
Other membership options include healthy body care, natural feminine care, and home essentials. Please check it out!

Varsity Orchestras through the South Orange Maplewood Adult School!

Don’t miss this chance for your young musician to make music with their peers in an encouraging, inclusive and inspiring environment, led by talented and engaging instructors who have deep experience working with children. Designed to augment the school music instruction, our orchestras allow young musicians to develop their musical talent, experience being part of an ensemble, learn about music theory, grow friendships with other young musicians, and perform at our twice-yearly concerts. Orchestras meet one evening a week at Columbia High School. Register online at the SOMAS website.

Gratefully yours,

Deb Holt & Sara Knutsen
MMS HSA Co-Presidents 2018-2019

​mmshsainfo@gmail.com
debcatholt@gmail.com
szknutsen@gmail.com
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