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Maplewood Middle School Home and School Association
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MMS HSA News - Week 43

6/24/2020

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MMS HSA News - Week 43
MAPLEWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
We made it to the end of the 2019-2020 School Year! Happy end of the school year/beginning of summer everyone!  This newsletter marks the last of the 2019-20 Sunday (and occasionally Monday) Newsletters until school starts up again in the fall. 

Putting these newsletters together is a labor of love and sometimes a test of technological patience. It is also a wonderful way to significantly contribute to MMS from the comfort of your home office (or car, or front steps).  If you are interested in joining the HSA, or have important information to share, please give us a shout.  

This school year evoked so many different feelings: joy, fear, hope, anger, love. Over the last month or so, we have all watched the horrific, violent, racist events perpetrated against African Americans.  These events have been set against the backdrop of a pandemic that has disproportionately impacted our communities of color and reminded us of the inequities that exist in our nation and our own community.

The HSA re-affirms our commitment to anti-racism.  We believe that Black Lives Matter. The ability to impact change lies within all of our hands and while the school year is coming to an end, we remain committed to helping our MMS students and families.  

Our last HSA Meeting of the school year will be Wednesday June 23.  
8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony
Eighth grade families are invited to celebrate the Class of 2020 moving up to high school. The virtual ceremony will be at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, June 24 on the district's YouTube page. Congratulations to all of our 8th graders!
Locker Cleanout
Students can pick up the contents of their hallway and gym lockers at MMS on Tuesday, June 23. If you need to return any school items such as textbooks or musical instruments you can bring them to the school on Tuesday. Pickup time is based on last name. Click here for the schedule and more details.
SOMA Shares - Lunch, Books, Groceries, Toiletries, School and Art Supplies!

We want to let everyone know of all the additional resources now available to all district students and their families during lunch distribution at both distribution locations.

Lunch is available to all district students and their siblings every weekday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Seth Boyden and Columbia High School. Your child doesn't need to be present and you can pick up from either location (and can pick up for neighbors/friends who can't go in person).
  • The district is providing fresh produce.
  • There are delicious donations from Liv Breads and Vista Hermosa tortillas.
  • On Wednesdays you can also enjoy a bag with fresh harvest from the Seth Boyden Garden and Rent Party.
The district PTAs, HSAs, Cougar Cares, local families, Words Bookstore and Alomo Books are now also in partnership with the Parenting Center and the Achieve Foundation and are providing books and school/art supplies for all kids, to make remote schooling as productive and enriching as possible. There are also additional grocery items and toiletries available.

Are You Able To Help?
  • Can you shop for extra groceries, toiletries, paper goods, or cleaning supplies when buying for your own family?
  • Do you have books in good condition to donate?
  • Can you afford to buy items from the Amazon wishlist?
  • Can you shop locally with Words or A Paper Hat? If you shop locally, just make a note that it's for the SOMA Shares and we can pick it up. This is a great opportunity to support local businesses!
  • Do you have contacts at companies or organizations that might want to donate?
     
Donations of any size are appreciated, as we're distributing every day. Email sbnews@sethboyden.com for the best drop-off location for you. Please DO NOT drop them off or have them delivered to any school.

We're grateful to SOMA Kids Feed Kids for all their help collecting so many donations. Stay tuned for the SOMA Shares program to continue this summer at Maplecrest Park!
 
Math Summer Booster Announcement

Who: All students currently in grades 5th through 7th
Dates: July 6 to July 24, weekdays
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Cost: $350. Scholarships available for qualifying students Format: Instruction will take place online with both live and self-directed portions. Students will need their own computer from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. each day.
Content: Pre-requisite content important for success in the fall and a preview of some concepts they will learn in their new course.
Courses: Preparation for Gr. 6 Math, Gr. 6 Pre-algebra, Gr. 7 Math, Gr. 7 Pre-algebra, Gr. 8 Pre-algebra, Algebra I, Geometry
Join The MMS HSA
YouthNet
HSA News Submission Form
No Frills Fundraiser
MMS Makerspace
Team Sites






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MMS HSA News - Week 42

6/16/2020

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MMS HSA News - Week 42
MAPLEWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
We made it!!! 

This is the last FULL week of distance learning and will primarily be used for catching up. Many teachers are not starting new material so check in with your student about any missed work, reach out to teachers about concerns, and take a look at grades in PowerSchool.

As we begin to wrap up the strangest academic school year in many of our lives, we want to thank our AMAZING parent volunteers Maureen Fitzpatrick Griffis and Mel Rose for anchoring what has been quite a rollercoaster of an 8th grade wrapup. HSA volunteers, like Maureen and Mel, selflessly support their students and our community beyond all odds, show up and risk their own health, and go above and beyond while also anchoring their own lives and jobs. They make all of our lives easier and so please honor them with respect and gratitude. Without them, we would all be worse off. And please do consider volunteering, particularly if you want to be part of the solution and not part of the problem.

Below are a few quick announcements to help you plan your summer activities:
  • The Math Summer Booster program is on! An email will be coming out shortly with detail from Kim Bean. In addition, we have added what we know below (scroll down).
  • Extended School Year (ESY) is running! We should be getting guidance on that shortly, however, it's in the MMS calendar and will run from July 1 to Aug. 13 from 9 a.m. to  noon. A parent meeting is scheduled for June 25 at 630 p.m.
  • 8th Grade Commencement is still virtual and is scheduled for June 24 at 9 a.m. 8th grade families should have received an email with details. Let us know if you have not.
  • 6th and 7th Grade Yearbooks will be available for pickup on the same day as pickup for belongings left behind in lockers. This date has not yet been set. Stay tuned!
  • HSA Final Meeting is June 17 at 7:30 p.m. Wwe will be transitioning and voting on the Board Members for 2020-21. Please let us know if you are interested in serving. Reach out directly to volazabal@gmail.com or Kellyannharris@gmail.com. 
Enjoy the week, reach out with any thoughts, concerns and questions, and we will do our best to respond.

Veronica and Kelly
The Parenting Center Invites You to a Virtual Event …
Hard Conversations in Difficult Times: Talking to Our Kids about Current Events, Racial Injustice & Equity will be held Tuesday, June 16 at 7:30 p.m. Join via WebEx: https://www.somsd.k12.nj.us/parentworkshop
SOMA Shares - Lunch, Books, Groceries, Toiletries, School and Art Supplies!

We want to let everyone know of all the additional resources now available to all district students and their families during lunch distribution at both distribution locations.

Lunch is available to all district students and their siblings every weekday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Seth Boyden and Columbia High School. Your child doesn't need to be present and you can pick up from either location (and can pick up for neighbors/friends who can't go in person).
  • The district is providing fresh produce.
  • There are delicious donations from Liv Breads and Vista Hermosa tortillas.
  • On Wednesdays you can also enjoy a bag with fresh harvest from the Seth Boyden Garden and Rent Party.
The district PTAs, HSAs, Cougar Cares, local families, Words Bookstore and Alomo Books are now also in partnership with the Parenting Center and the Achieve Foundation and are providing books and school/art supplies for all kids, to make remote schooling as productive and enriching as possible. There are also additional grocery items and toiletries available.

Are You Able To Help?
  • Can you shop for extra groceries, toiletries, paper goods, or cleaning supplies when buying for your own family?
  • Do you have books in good condition to donate?
  • Can you afford to buy items from the Amazon wishlist?
  • Can you shop locally with Words or A Paper Hat? If you shop locally, just make a note that it's for the SOMA Shares and we can pick it up. This is a great opportunity to support local businesses!
  • Do you have contacts at companies or organizations that might want to donate?
     
Donations of any size are appreciated, as we're distributing every day. Email sbnews@sethboyden.com for the best drop-off location for you. Please DO NOT drop them off or have them delivered to any school.

We're grateful to SOMA Kids Feed Kids for all their help collecting so many donations. Stay tuned for the SOMA Shares program to continue this summer at Maplecrest Park!
 
Math Summer Booster Announcement

Who: All students currently in grades 5th through 7th
Dates: July 6 to July 24, weekdays
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Cost: $350. Scholarships available for qualifying students Format: Instruction will take place online with both live and self-directed portions. Students will need their own computer from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. each day.
Content: Pre-requisite content important for success in the fall and a preview of some concepts they will learn in their new course.
Courses: Preparation for Gr. 6 Math, Gr. 6 Pre-algebra, Gr. 7 Math, Gr. 7 Pre-algebra, Gr. 8 Pre-algebra, Algebra I, Geometry
Distance Learning
For more information on distance learning, please click here.
Join The MMS HSA
YouthNet
HSA News Submission Form
No Frills Fundraiser
MMS Makerspace
Team Sites






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MMS HSA News - Week 41

6/8/2020

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MMS HSA News - Week 41
MAPLEWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
Change is upon us. 

The country continues to protest injustice and police brutality while still combating COVID-19 and as New Jersey moves into Phase 2 reopening plans. All as we wrap up one of the most eventful school years we have had in ages.  

With very few weeks of distance learning to go, here are a few announcements;
  • WELCOME TO MMS: Getting Ready For Success in Maplewood Middle School Meet for incoming 6th graders is Tuesday,June 9 at 7:30 p.m. 
  • MOVE-UP CEREMONY: The 8th Grade Move-up ceremony is scheduled for June 24 at 9 a.m. It will be virtual. Details have been shared with 8th Grade families. If you have any questions, please reach out to Maureen Griffis.
  • WE NEED YOU! We are also looking to fill spots on the MMS HSA Board. Please do reach out if you are curious. We are especially interested in bringing on a strong incoming 8th grade parent coordination team. For more information on the HSA, click here.
  • INSTRUMENTS: Finally, if your student has an instrument, returns will take place on Tuesday, June 9 between the hours of 9 a.m. and  2 p.m. at MMS. Please see the details below.

Have a great week,
Veronica and Kelly
SOMA Shares - Lunch, Books, Groceries, Toiletries, School and Art Supplies!

We want to let everyone know of all the additional resources now available to all district students and their families during lunch distribution at both distribution locations.

Lunch is available to all district students and their siblings every weekday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Seth Boyden and Columbia High School. Your child doesn't need to be present and you can pick up from either location (and can pick up for neighbors/friends who can't go in person).
  • The district is providing fresh produce.
  • There are delicious donations from Liv Breads and Vista Hermosa tortillas.
  • On Wednesdays you can also enjoy a bag with fresh harvest from the Seth Boyden Garden and Rent Party.
The district PTAs, HSAs, Cougar Cares, local families, Words Bookstore and Alomo Books are now also in partnership with the Parenting Center and the Achieve Foundation and are providing books and school/art supplies for all kids, to make remote schooling as productive and enriching as possible. There are also additional grocery items and toiletries available.

Are You Able To Help?
  • Can you shop for extra groceries, toiletries, paper goods, or cleaning supplies when buying for your own family?
  • Do you have books in good condition to donate?
  • Can you afford to buy items from the Amazon wishlist?
  • Can you shop locally with Words or A Paper Hat? If you shop locally, just make a note that it's for the SOMA Shares and we can pick it up. This is a great opportunity to support local businesses!
  • Do you have contacts at companies or organizations that might want to donate?
     
Donations of any size are appreciated, as we're distributing every day. Email sbnews@sethboyden.com for the best drop-off location for you. Please DO NOT drop them off or have them delivered to any school.

We're grateful to SOMA Kids Feed Kids for all their help collecting so many donations. Stay tuned for the SOMA Shares program to continue this summer at Maplecrest Park!
 
Instrument Return
Band and orchestra students who rent instruments from Elefante Music can return their instruments at Maplewood Middle School on Tuesday, June 9 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. If you are unable to make this instrument return, you will need to arrange a  return with Elefante Music before the end of the school year

If your instrument is still at MMS, arrangements will be made to return any instruments to Elefante Music when the building reopens.

If you are continuing in band/orchestra next year, please keep your instrument.

Email Mr. Balas or Miss Chilimintris with any questions. 
Welcome to Middle School!
On Tuesday, June 9 at 7:30 p.m., MMS will hold a virtual Welcome to Middle School event for incoming 6th grade families. Click here to connect to the WebEx. Meet our new assistant principals and other school staff as we share with you what to expect for 6th grade!
Cougar Tutors
Cougar Tutors is a math tutoring service started and run by CHS students. We offer affordable remote tutoring sessions over Zoom or FaceTime. We tutor students in all subjects through pre-calc. To learn more or book a session visit www.cougartutors.com or contact Mac Krause.
Distance Learning
For more information on distance learning, please click here.
Join The MMS HSA
YouthNet
HSA News Submission Form
No Frills Fundraiser
MMS Makerspace
Team Sites






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MMS HSA News Week 40

6/1/2020

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MMS HSA News - Week 40
MAPLEWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
MMS Families,

Our nation is quite literally under fire. Perhaps you feel powerless over these larger issues, perhaps you are tired or paralyzed by grief and anger. Setting aside our own personal feelings, our students are watching. And what they see are people, many close to their age, protesting. And they are asking questions that may impact their views for many year to come.

Amid COVID-19, let us acknowledge the many injustices that have led us to this week, and let us ask the hard questions to those in positions to do something, big or small.

Here are a few useful resources being discussed over social media:
  • Teaching about race, racism and police violence: Resources for educators and parents by Valerie Strauss | The Washington Post (July 11, 2016)

  • “America’s Racial Contract Is Killing Us” by Adam Serwer | Atlantic (May 8, 2020)   

  •  How you can be an ally in the fight for racial justice on idea.TED.com  
  • Community Coalition on Race and information on Implicit Bias
 
In terms of this week, take a look at Superintendent Taylor's wrap up for last week  

For those with incoming 6th graders, Welcome to Middle School is scheduled for June 9th @ 7:30 pm. (virtually) For more information visit: https://bit.ly/3d0v64S

Stay safe,

Veronica and Kelly   
T-shirts and signs have been ordered for all 8th grade students.  We ordered a variety of sizes to accommodate those who did not complete the Google form indicating a specific size.  If you did NOT submit a form, please email your child's name and home address for delivery purposes. 

If you have not done so already, please consider making a $5 donation to offset some expenses. 

Stay tuned for additional details on other year-end activities.
Welcome to Middle School!
On Tuesday, June 9 at 7:30 p.m., MMS will hold a virtual Welcome to Middle School event for incoming 6th grade families. Click here to connect to the WebEx. Meet our new assistant principals and other school staff as we share with you what to expect for 6th grade!
Cougar Tutors
Cougar Tutors is a math tutoring service started and run by CHS students. We offer affordable remote tutoring sessions over Zoom or FaceTime. We tutor students in all subjects through pre-calc. To learn more or book a session visit www.cougartutors.com or contact Mac Krause.
Free Emergency Childcare at the Y!
The Y is offering free emergency childcare for all essential workers at the East Orange and Livingston branches.For more information or to register, click here. 
Distance Learning
For more information on distance learning, please click here.
New Update! Food Support Now Available For All District Students
SOMSD Food Service will now provide meals to any district students and siblings under the age of 18, including the District’s out-of-district placements, and those attending charter schools regardless of eligibility status.

For students who receive free or reduced lunch, packed lunches will be distributed every school day from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. beginning on Wednesday, March 18 at:
• Seth Boyden School
• Columbia High School  

No one will be denied a meal.

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

Please speak slowly and clearly & please repeat your phone number twice. If you request food support we will share your contact information with a community volunteer who will make a food delivery to your home.
 
Join The MMS HSA
YouthNet
HSA News Submission Form
No Frills Fundraiser
MMS Makerspace
Team Sites






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MMS HSA News - Week 39

5/28/2020

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MMS HSA News - Week 39
MAPLEWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
MMS Families,

Hoping you had a restful Memorial Day weekend! As you know, Memorial Day provides us a moment to pause and honor the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. It also unofficially marks the beginning of our summer and this one will probably be quite memorable.

A few updates to share:
  • In case you missed it, here is the District'slatest update on distance learning 
  • The 8th Grade Moving up Ceremony is on June 24. As part of the celebration, student contributions are being requested. See here for directions on how to submit your favorite quotes and poems.
  • Rising 7th Graders: There is still time to select your student's music ensemble and related arts preference. You will see the option in Google classroom.
  • For students with items in school lockers, the District is awaiting guidance from the State on how to provide access to any belongings. Stay tuned!
Enjoy the short week!
Veronica and Kelly
T-shirts and signs have been ordered for all 8th grade students.  We ordered a variety of sizes to accommodate those who did not complete the Google form indicating a specific size.  If you did NOT submit a form, please email your child's name and home address for delivery purposes. 

If you have not done so already, please consider making a $5 donation to offset some expenses. 

Goodbye video: We asked each 8th grade student to submit 2-3 photos from their time at MMS. (Pics should be in and around MMS or at MMS activities.)    Deadline was Friday, May 22 but we will take photos through today.   Email photos to mfitzp100@gmail.com.

Stay tuned for additional details on other year-end activities.
Achieve's Exciting Virtual Maker Madness!
May is Maker Madness Month! Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30 p.m. to  4:30 p.m. throughout the month of May, Achieve Makers will be posting project ideas and live experiments for you to try at home. Check our Facebook page Events tab for hands-on learning opportunities and fun with materials you probably have on hand at home.

 
Welcome to Middle School!
On Tuesday, June 9 at 7:30 p.m., MMS will hold a virtual Welcome to Middle School event for incoming 6th grade families. Click here to connect to the WebEx. Meet our new assistant principals and other school staff as we share with you what to expect for 6th grade!
Cougar Tutors
Cougar Tutors is a math tutoring service started and run by CHS students. We offer affordable remote tutoring sessions over Zoom or FaceTime. We tutor students in all subjects through pre-calc. To learn more or book a session visit www.cougartutors.com or contact Mac Krause.
Free Emergency Childcare at the Y!
The Y is offering free emergency childcare for all essential workers at the East Orange and Livingston branches.For more information or to register, click here. 
Distance Learning
For more information on distance learning, please click here.
New Update! Food Support Now Available For All District Students
SOMSD Food Service will now provide meals to any district students and siblings under the age of 18, including the District’s out-of-district placements, and those attending charter schools regardless of eligibility status.

For students who receive free or reduced lunch, packed lunches will be distributed every school day from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. beginning on Wednesday, March 18 at:
• Seth Boyden School
• Columbia High School  

No one will be denied a meal.

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

Please speak slowly and clearly & please repeat your phone number twice. If you request food support we will share your contact information with a community volunteer who will make a food delivery to your home.
 
Join The MMS HSA
YouthNet
HSA News Submission Form
No Frills Fundraiser
MMS Makerspace
Team Sites






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MMS HSA News - Week 38

5/20/2020

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MMS HSA News - Week 38
MAPLEWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
Families - we are getting close to the "finish" line for this academic year. This past week, many of us began planning for next year. As you know, a lot continues to be up in the air for our district, the country and the world. 

We offer a few resources to share as you continue planning:
  • Here is the Math Night video for incoming 6th, 7th and 8th graders. The Math selection deadline was last Friday, May 15 through PowerSchool so if you did not yet register, please reach out to Kim Beane. 
  • Keep a lookout for information about Cultural Arts selection in your inboxes this week.
  • The district has hired a Mandarin teacher for MMS. Only 5 classes will be available and the current plan is to start with the incoming 6th and 8th grade. Sorry incoming 7th grade families (your HSA co-presidents included).
  • The Extended Summer Year (ESY) program will be offered this summer but it is not yet clear how it will be delivered (in person or remote). 
Memorial Day Weekend starts this Friday, May 22. There will be no home assignments or school work. Mayor McGehee reminds us to keep our social distancing practices in mind, suggesting a face mask when outdoors.

Veronica and Kelly
We have finalized plans to honor our 8th grade graduates.  Sadly, with school closed for the remainder of the year, we will obviously not be holding the traditional dinner dance and moving up ceremony but we came up with a few things to mark this special occasion.

1)   Each child will receive a congratulatory lawn sign with a space for you to "Sharpie" in your child's name. These will be delivered to you, date TBD.
2)   The 8th grade team leads are designing and ordering class T-shirts for each child.
3)   Goodbye Video - we will create a goodbye video.   Please have your child submit 2-3 photos of themselves or with friends in and around MMS - or at an MMS activity preferably - to be included in the video.
4)   Online yearbook signing - actual yearbooks will also be distributed and we will set up an online signing page on Instragram where each child can put up a photo of themselves with a memory of their time at MMS (or a quote) and other kids can send them their congrats.

As we were not really able to fundraise, we would ask for a voluntary contribution of $5 per child to cover the expenses of the signs/T-shirts. (Note: If you are unable to make the contribution, your child will still receive the T-shirt and sign).

What do you need to do?

1) Please complete this Google form ASAP with your child's T-shirt size.
2) If you can, make a $5 contribution to the MMS Paypal account.
3) Please ask your child to submit pics to mfitzp100@gmail.com for goodbye video. Please submit by May 22.
4) Stay tuned for more info on the online yearbook.

Let's try to please keep the lawn signs/T-shirts a secret in order to surprise the kids!

Stay tuned for updates on delivery dates etc. And please reach out with any questions.
Virtual Community Meeting Hosted By the CCR
The Community Coalition on Race (CCR) is hosting an online discussion on housing insecurity, food insecurity and the digital divide on Thursday, May 21 at 7 p.m. Registration closes Monday, May 18.
Welcome to Middle School!
On Tuesday, June 9 at 7:30 p.m., MMS will hold a virtual Welcome to Middle School event for incoming 6th grade families. Click here to connect to the WebEx. Meet our new assistant principals and other school staff as we share with you what to expect for 6th grade!
Cougar Tutors
Cougar Tutors is a math tutoring service started and run by CHS students. We offer affordable remote tutoring sessions over Zoom or FaceTime. We tutor students in all subjects through pre-calc. To learn more or book a session visit www.cougartutors.com or contact Mac Krause.
Free Emergency Childcare at the Y!
The Y is offering free emergency childcare for all essential workers at the East Orange and Livingston branches.For more information or to register, click here. 
Distance Learning
For more information on distance learning, please click here.
New Update! Food Support Now Available For All District Students
SOMSD Food Service will now provide meals to any district students and siblings under the age of 18, including the District’s out-of-district placements, and those attending charter schools regardless of eligibility status.

For students who receive free or reduced lunch, packed lunches will be distributed every school day from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. beginning on Wednesday, March 18 at:
• Seth Boyden School
• Columbia High School  

No one will be denied a meal.

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

Please speak slowly and clearly & please repeat your phone number twice. If you request food support we will share your contact information with a community volunteer who will make a food delivery to your home.
 
Join The MMS HSA
YouthNet
HSA News Submission Form
No Frills Fundraiser
MMS Makerspace
Team Sites






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MMS HSA News - Week 37

5/13/2020

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MMS HSA News - Week 37
MAPLEWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
Hope everyone had a great Mother's Day weekend!

Thank you to everyone who helped make it a special time for our MMS team last week. Here is a Kudo Board we sent on-behalf of the MMS HSA in case you missed it.

Last week, we also learned that school buildings would not be opening for the rest of the academic year. We know it's disappointing, especially for our 8th grade families. Know that we are working hard to make sure we make reaching this milestone special.  

For our 6th and 7th grade families, Math selection in PowerSchool must be completed by Friday, May 15. The Math Night recording should be available Monday or Tuesday for families who missed the earlier sessions.   

On a lighter note, our teachers and staff joined The Next Move Challenge which is a must see if you missed it.

There will be "no school" on Friday, May 22, which is technically a give back day.

Hope you have a great week!
Veronica and Kelly
Student Council Food Donation
Kids in the Student Council Google Classroom were talking about wasted food so we decided to donate whatever was left (which was quite a lot) from the school store to local places!  Aren't our kids amazing?!

We were able to donate to local families as well as the Maplewood Police Department, the South Orange Rescue Squad and the Millburn-Short Hills Volunteer First Aid Squad.
Luminaries in Action: Let Us Be the Light!
Beloved Community in Solidarity, Remembrance and Hope Sunday, May 17 from 7:45 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. SOMA neighbors are invited to step outside to wave lights and share messages of solidarity, honoring all we have gone through over the past two months. Click here for details.
Support Service Industry Employees
MAPSO Virtual Tip Jar, a digital platform designed to support service industry employees affected by COVID-19 has launched! The platform provides residents with direct-to-account “tipping” to their personal PayPal, Cash App and Venmo banking apps.
Cougar Tutors
Cougar Tutors is a math tutoring service started and run by CHS students. We offer affordable remote tutoring sessions over Zoom or FaceTime. We tutor students in all subjects through pre-calc. To learn more or book a session visit www.cougartutors.com or contact Mac Krause.
Free Emergency Childcare at the Y!
The Y is offering free emergency childcare for all essential workers at the East Orange and Livingston branches.For more information or to register, click here. 
Interested in Expanding Cultural Arts?
Young Audiences Arts for Learning NJ & Eastern PA launched a new weekly artist video series earlier this month - Arts Connection! Every Monday, see a new teaching artist in action and help your student stay CONNECTED to and INSPIRED by the arts while away from school.
Distance Learning
For more information on distance learning, please click here.
New Update! Food Support Now Available For All District Students
SOMSD Food Service will now provide meals to any district students and siblings under the age of 18, including the District’s out-of-district placements, and those attending charter schools regardless of eligibility status.

For students who receive free or reduced lunch, packed lunches will be distributed every school day from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. beginning on Wednesday, March 18 at:
• Seth Boyden School
• Columbia High School  

No one will be denied a meal.

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

Please speak slowly and clearly & please repeat your phone number twice. If you request food support we will share your contact information with a community volunteer who will make a food delivery to your home.
 
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MMS Makerspace
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MMS HSA News - Week 36

5/4/2020

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MMS HSA News - Week 36
MAPLEWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
It's time to celebrate our teachers! This week is National Teacher Appreciation Week and we will be celebrating MMS teachers and staff with "at a distance" activities throughout the week. Please contribute in sending positive energy and thoughts to our teachers! 

Here's the plan:
  • Monday - Parent/Student Videograms:  This day is about individual appreciation. Student and parents are encouraged to send a short video clip to their teachers. Consider the question: "What makes your teacher special?" 
  • Tuesday - MMS HSA Teacher Appreciation: The HSA will be sharing a special Kudos Board to all teachers and staff.  
  • Wednesday - Team Teacher Cards: HSA team leads are preparing special digital cards for MMS teachers by grade. 
  • Thursday - Teacher Digital Gift Cards: We are supporting local businesses with digital gift cards to teachers in lieu of a physical gift.
  • Friday - Special Announcement
In other news, we hope to know by Monday whether school will reopen this year. We will update our community as soon as we know the implications for MMS. In addition, several of you have asked about 8th grade end-of-year activities. You should have received an update from HSA 8th Grade Coordinators. Please reach out to Maureen Griffis and Mel Rose with any questions, thoughts and/ or suggestions.

Have a great week!
Veronica and Kelly
Support Service Industry Employees
MAPSO Virtual Tip Jar, a digital platform designed to support service industry employees affected by COVID-19 has launched! The platform provides residents with direct-to-account “tipping” to their personal PayPal, Cash App and Venmo banking apps.
Cougar Tutors
Cougar Tutors is a math tutoring service started and run by CHS students. We offer affordable remote tutoring sessions over Zoom or FaceTime. We tutor students in all subjects through pre-calc. To learn more or book a session visit www.cougartutors.com or contact Mac Krause.
Achieve wants to hear from YOU!
How are we doing? What would you like to see more of in the future? Please take five minutes to complete this survey that will help Achieve Foundation with our strategic plan. 
Free Emergency Childcare at the Y!
The Y is offering free emergency childcare for all essential workers at the East Orange and Livingston branches.For more information or to register, click here. 
Interested in Expanding Cultural Arts?
Young Audiences Arts for Learning NJ & Eastern PA launched a new weekly artist video series earlier this month - Arts Connection! Every Monday, see a new teaching artist in action and help your student stay CONNECTED to and INSPIRED by the arts while away from school.
SEPAC NEWS
The next SEPAC meeting is Tuesday, May 5 at 8 p.m. via zoom. Topics to be covered include: Regression and Re-Entry; Compensatory Services; and Distance Learning. If there is a topic you want addressed, please email Malia Rulon Herman.
Distance Learning
For more information on distance learning, please click here.
New Update! Food Support Now Available For All District Students
SOMSD Food Service will now provide meals to any district students and siblings under the age of 18, including the District’s out-of-district placements, and those attending charter schools regardless of eligibility status.

For students who receive free or reduced lunch, packed lunches will be distributed every school day from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. beginning on Wednesday, March 18 at:
• Seth Boyden School
• Columbia High School  

No one will be denied a meal.

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

Please speak slowly and clearly & please repeat your phone number twice. If you request food support we will share your contact information with a community volunteer who will make a food delivery to your home.
 
Join The MMS HSA
YouthNet
HSA News Submission Form
No Frills Fundraiser
MMS Makerspace
Team Sites






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MMS HSA News - Week 35

4/30/2020

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MMS HSA News - Week 35
MAPLEWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
Another Week of Distance Learning Has Passed
How is everyone doing now that the governor has announced that schools will be closed until May 15? 
Your HSA representatives - Lynne Daley, Kelly Harris and Veronica Olazabal - have been busy over the past week helping to interview candidates for assistant principal. The plan is to have a new AP in place by this summer. In addition, our wonderful nurse Julie Porter (who has been the district's lead nurse for some time) will be relocating to the South Mountain Annex as of May 1 to support the district's kindergarten registration. The district has assured us that we will have medical support in place once we do return to school. This week, we also mourned the loss of one of our parents. Click here to find out how you can help the family.  

A few important updates to flag for you:
  • Math Night for your rising 7th and 8th grader has been set to Thursday, April 30. Webex details to go out this week. Registration is happening now through PowerSchool and the deadline is Friday, May 15. If you did not receive an email or have questions, reach out to Kim Beane.
  • Teacher Appreciation week starts on Monday, May 4! Please send your teacher a video-gram that day reminding them how appreciative your student is of their support. We are working on additional activities including online group cards. Stay tuned!
  • Interested in running for the HSA Board? We are looking to fill a few leadership spots next year, including 8th grade coordinators, a Sun-Shine committee point person, fundraising chair and cultural/ fine arts representatives. Please reach out to Kelly (kellyannharris@gmail.com) or Veronica (volazabal@gmail.com) if you are interested. And don't be surprised if we reach out to you because you are especially talented in any of the above!
  • Finally, Superintendent Taylor shared an update on the district's integration plan. Click here for the video.
We know it's hard and that many of you continue to juggle remote work with homeschooling and parenting. It's amazing to see so many of you going above and beyond to help others during this time.  We are a resilient community and will recover from this - stay strong!

Veronica and Kelly
Free Emergency Childcare at the Y!
The Y is offering free emergency childcare for all essential workers at the East Orange and Livingston branches.For more information or to register, click here. 
Interested in Expanding Cultural Arts?
Young Audiences Arts for Learning NJ & Eastern PA launched a new weekly artist video series earlier this month - Arts Connection! Every Monday, see a new teaching artist in action and help your student stay CONNECTED to and INSPIRED by the arts while away from school.
SEPAC NEWS
The next SEPAC meeting is Tuesday, May 5 at 8 p.m. via zoom. Topics to be covered include: Regression and Re-Entry; Compensatory Services; and Distance Learning. If there is a topic you want addressed, please email Malia Rulon Herman.
Math Registration for 6th and 7th Graders!
Maplewood Middle School Math Parent Information Night is on April 30, online at 7 p.m. via Webex. Details to come. The last day to select a math course for 2020-21 is May 15.
National Teacher Appreciation Week is May 4-8!
Let's celebrate our teachers! Details forthcoming. In the meantime, please plan to email your teachers a video of your student starting Monday, May 4.
Distance Learning
For more information on distance learning, please click here.
School Lunch Service To Continue
For students who receive free or reduced lunch, packed lunches will be distributed every school day from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. beginning on Wednesday, March 18 at:
• Seth Boyden School
• Columbia High School  

No one will be denied a meal.

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

Please speak slowly and clearly & please repeat your phone number twice. If you request food support we will share your contact information with a community volunteer who will make a food delivery to your home.
 
Join The MMS HSA
YouthNet
HSA News Submission Form
No Frills Fundraiser
MMS Makerspace
Team Sites






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MMS HSA News - Week 34

4/20/2020

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MMS HSA News - Week 34
MAPLEWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
Tomorrow distance learning resumes!
Also, this week - even during a pandemic - environmental leaders around the world will commemorate Earth Day.  Every year on April 22, Earth Day marks the anniversary of the birth of the modern environmental movement in 1970. 2020 will mark 50 years of celebrating Earth Day.  
In researching Earth Day for this newsletter, we found that it was a book from 1962 -- Rachel Carson’s New York Times bestseller Silent Spring - that would stir this environmental movement. This book, which sold more than 500,000 copies in 24 countries, raised public awareness and concern for living organisms, the environment and the inextricable links between pollution and public health.  Earth Day 1970 would come to provide a voice to this emerging environmental consciousness and put environmental concerns on the front page. 

Columbia High School's Environmental Society will be celebrating Earth Day with some events.  

Good luck this week!  :) 
Kelly & Veronica 
Distance Learning
For more information on distance learning, please click here.
School Lunch Service To Continue
For students who receive free or reduced lunch, packed lunches will be distributed every school day from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. beginning on Wednesday, March 18 at:
• Seth Boyden School
• Columbia High School  

No one will be denied a meal.

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

Please speak slowly and clearly & please repeat your phone number twice. If you request food support we will share your contact information with a community volunteer who will make a food delivery to your home.
 
Join The MMS HSA
YouthNet
HSA News Submission Form
No Frills Fundraiser
MMS Makerspace
Team Sites






This email was sent to *|EMAIL|*
why did I get this?    unsubscribe from this list    update subscription preferences
*|LIST:ADDRESSLINE|*
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