Hello MMS Families -

This week is the last FULL week of school and also our last weekly email. It is a busy week filled with a lot of fun activities. A special congratulations to our 8th graders who will be moving up on Friday. Dinner dance permission slips will be collected tomorrow during lunch. Please don’t forget if you have time and are available to volunteer in a few activities this week please check the sign-up geniuses.

We wanted to thank you for all your support this past year. A special thank you to the outgoing MMS HSA board, to our newly appointed incoming members and to Principal Gronau and the MMS staff.

It has been a pleasure serving as your MMS HSA co-Presidents. Have a safe and healthy summer!

Best,

Deb & Sara
Your MMS HSA Co-Presidents

A Few Key Dates:

Thursday, June 20th  4 Hour day

Friday June 21st     4 Hour day & Last day School, 6th and 7th Grade!
--8th Grade Moving Up ceremony 9 am.

Monday, June 24th     Half Day and Last day of school, 8th grade only

8th Grade Updates

Tuesday, June 18th  - 8th Grade Dinner Dance at Maplewood Country Club 6:30 - 9:30 pm.  See attached letter and permission slip from Principal Gronau.  Submit Permission Slips THIS week.

Friday, June 21st    8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony, 9am!  See attached letter from Principal Gronau.

Monday, June 24th    8th Grade Certificates handed out, last day of school for 8th grade. Open fun gym, details to follow!

7th Grade Updates

Thursday, June 20th - 7th grade Pool Party

8th Grade Dinner Dance Chaperones Needed for June 18th!  We need 7th grade parents to chaperone the 8th grade Dinner Dance - the evening of Tuesday, June 18. This is a great way to volunteer if helping out during the work day is challenging.  The Sign Up Genius is HERE: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/508054aaca82aa02-8thgrade

6th Grade Updates

Friday, June 21st - 6th Grade Pool Party, Permission slips still to come

Donations Needed -- Dinner Dance Pop Up Shop

Thanks so much to everyone who has donated dresses for our Dinner Dance Pop-Up Shop!  We are still accepting donations for both girls and boys clothing -- especially boys clothes and shoes for both boys and girls.  Any accessories would be great too!

Please drop off clothing, shoes and accessories at the Guidance office.  

Please direct your child/children to the Guidance office to browse the Pop-Up Shop for Dinner Dance attire.

Fundraising

“It’s Never Too Late” No-Frills Fundraiser!
Even though the school year is almost over, our students still have lots of activities coming up.  If you meant to donate and didn’t get around to it, or if you already have donated but would like to give more, now’s your chance!  

Your MMS HSA can always use more funds to help subsidize the costs for many of these events and provide scholarships to students who may not be able to afford these opportunities.  Plus, thanks to the tireless work of our Treasurer, Mary Ellen Dawkins, we now have received non-profit status and are a 501c3!!!

If you are able, please take a moment to click HERE to donate to our “It’s Never Too Late” No-Frills Fundraiser.

9th Grade Schedules

9th Grade schedules are up on Powerschool. 2019.2020 Course Schedules will be available this evening on PowerSchool. Please find attached letter from Mr. White, Interim Director of Guidance and a Schedule Change Request Form.  https://msg.schoolmessenger.com/m/getdocument.php?s=dMqfw0NZ-sE&mal=347a8c75698fad521757b45a383dd561d173512a5e00e88059b83155fa0aa2df&p=

Summer Reading

Summer reading lists are now available.

https://www.somsd.k12.nj.us/maplewood/headlines/2019/06/12/blast-off-into-summer-reading/

Linked above please find the links to summer 2019 reading lists.  The Maplewood Public Library YA librarian Sara, our own Media Specialist Mr. Degnan, and the SOMS, CHS and SOPL librarians have worked hard on this list.  The titles look great!

Summer Meals from Hunger Free New Jersey

New Jersey has made great progress on serving summer meals to more kids, with a 38% increase since 2015!  Still, just a quarter of low income children receive this summertime nutrition. If you would like to know more about assistance or get more information on the program, please visit njfoodforthought.org for resources and downloadable flyers.

If you want hard copies, contact Nancy Parello from @centerforfoodaction at nparello@cfanj.org.

Let’s work together to make sure all New Jersey children receive the nutrition they need to be healthy and return to school in September ready to learn

Achieve Foundation/Honor Your Teacher

Thinking of end-of-year gifts for your child’s teachers? Not surprisingly, the gifts teachers appreciate most are their students’ heartfelt expressions of thanks. Make a donation to Achieve in honor of one or more of your child’s teachers, guidance counselors, coaches, crossing guards – any staff member in any SOMA school - and we’ll print your personal messages on note cards and deliver them to your designated staff members in June. Proceeds from Honor Your Teacher Tributes will be directed toward next year’s Achieve Teacher Grants. The deadline to order year-end tributes is Friday, June 14, but why not get a jump on it and order now?

Ordering Honor Your Teacher tributes is easy - do it today! Follow this link
https://tinyurl.com/HonorSOMSD to complete the tribute form.

You can pay via PayPal as long as your total order is for $10 or more.

Leadership Training Conference

This July the New Jersey Association of Student Councils will run it's 64th annual summer Leadership Training Conference.  All current members of MMS Student Council are invited to explore this opportunity. You're also welcome to attend if you're not a current Student Council member and thinking about being one next year!

The Leadership Training Conference is an overnight camp that takes place at The College of New Jersey in Ewing Township.  The registration fee is $450.00 and includes housing, meals and all conference activities. The dates for this year's LTC are July 10 - 13 and July 14 - 17.

Check out more registration information here!

Scholarship opportunities may be available.  Please inquire with Ms. O'Sullivan (mosulliv@somsd.k12.nj.us).

Special Ed Update

For 8th grade families to keep in mind for future AP, ACT & SAT testing. 9th graders who want to take the AP World History test next year & will need accommodations, should start the process early next Fall because it can take a few months to set up: at CHS, contact Mr Matt Endlich  (mendlich@somsd.k12.nj.us) for assistance with obtaining testing accommodations.

Students with an IEP or 504 Plan may receive test accommodations if they have been approved by the College Board for  SAT, SAT Subject tests, PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10 & AP Exams . See more details on requirements at the College Board website:

The ACT test requires a separate process, see the ACT site for details

More details can be found at UNDERSTOOD.ORG: 

Community Updates
 Join Field Hockey
If your daughter would like to play Field Hockey at Columbia please visit www.chsfockey.com.

Join the Columbia High School Marching Band!
For the first time ever, 8th grade students will have the opportunity to experience the band while still in Middle School!  Please see the attached flyer for more information and details. It’s a great opportunity!

Gratefully yours,


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

Hello MMS Families -

We are in the final stretch to the end of the year!  Happy June!! These last few weeks are packed with activities for all of our students so please take time to read this blast and visit the HSA and MMS websites.

Thanks to the Nurse Porter for organizing the “wear pink and white day” on Friday, May 31 in honor of Mrs. Deck.  Her passing was a tragedy for all who knew and loved her and this thoughtful expression was a way for our school to show their love for her.

Thanks also to Achieve for helping facilitate two amazing projects at MMS:

First, the basement mural coordinated by Math Teacher Ms. Sudol and students Aasiyah La Boo, Ezra Merino, Kelly Vilsaint and Regie Deeble-Jackson.  This work of original art took the entire 2017-2018 school year to complete and represents the voices of all students in our diverse MMS community. Please click on the mural links to view photos of the mural. Mural 1; Mural 2.

Second, “The Break Room,” a place for meditation, restorative conference and resetting managing emotions. Staff will also receive Professional Development in trauma informed educational practices.  Please click HERE for a photo.

Apologies to all Chorus parents for the Postponement of Wednesday’s concert.  Hopefully the torrential rains and damaging storms are done for a while! The new date will be forthcoming.  Thank you for your support!

We would also like to thank the 6th grade Coordinators, Yves Hart, Caryn Emmons, and Sandra Kosik, along with the 6th grade volunteers for ensuring that our wonderful 6th graders had a fun Canteen this past Friday!  

Lastly, we would like to thank everyone who donated and all of the generous volunteers who helped make Friday’s Annual Spring Staff Luncheon such a success!  Everyone loved the delicious food and it was very appreciated by all staff at MMS!

Enjoy the sunshine!

Best,

Sara & Deb
Your MMS HSA Co-Presidents

A Few Key Dates:

Thursday, June 20th  4 Hour day

Friday June 21st     4 Hour day & Last day School, 6th and 7th Grade!
--8th Grade Moving Up ceremony 9 am.

Monday, June 24th     Half Day and Last day of school, 8th grade only

8th Grade Updates

Wednesday, June 12th - Pool Party, Students will walk after lunch and will be dismissed from the pool at 3:05. Parents are to make arrangements for students to either walk home or be picked up at that time. Permission slips to come.  Cost $2.

Wednesday, June 12th - Incoming parents information night 7 PM at Columbia, click HERE for flyer. (NOTE, This is a PARENTS/GUARDIAN only event!)

Tuesday, June 18th  - 8th Grade Dinner Dance at Maplewood Country Club 6:30 - 9:30 pm.  See attached letter and permission slip from Principal Gronau.

Friday, June 21st    8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony, 9am!  See attached letter from Principal Gronau.

Monday, June 24th    8th Grade Certificates handed out, last day of school for 8th grade. Open fun gym, details to follow!

7th Grade Updates

Thursday, June 20th - 7th grade Pool Party

8th Grade Dinner Dance Chaperones Needed for June 18th!  We need 7th grade parents to chaperone the 8th grade Dinner Dance - the evening of Tuesday, June 18. This is a great way to volunteer if helping out during the work day is challenging.  The Sign Up Genius is HERE: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/508054aaca82aa02-8thgrade

6th Grade Updates

Tuesday, June 4th - Ellis Island Field Trip - bagged lunch

Friday, June 21st - 6th Grade Pool Party, Permission slips still to come

Student Council Update
On Wednesday, May 29th, the Maplewood Middle School Student visited the New Jersey Association Spring Conference at Six Flags Great Adventure. The students had a great day celebrating their successful year of service and came home with a 2019 Community Smiles Program Award for their hard work in the community! Please click HERE for photo.

Fundraising

“It’s Never Too Late” No-Frills Fundraiser!
Even though the school year is almost over, our students still have lots of activities coming up.  If you meant to donate and didn’t get around to it, or if you already have donated but would like to give more, now’s your chance!  

Your MMS HSA can always use more funds to help subsidize the costs for many of these events and provide scholarships to students who may not be able to afford these opportunities.  Plus, thanks to the tireless work of our Treasurer, Mary Ellen Dawkins, we now have received non-profit status and are a 501c3!!!

If you are able, please take a moment to click HERE to donate to our “It’s Never Too Late” No-Frills Fundraiser.

Achieve Foundation/Honor Your Teacher

Thinking of end-of-year gifts for your child’s teachers? Not surprisingly, the gifts teachers appreciate most are their students’ heartfelt expressions of thanks. Make a donation to Achieve in honor of one or more of your child’s teachers, guidance counselors, coaches, crossing guards – any staff member in any SOMA school - and we’ll print your personal messages on note cards and deliver them to your designated staff members in June. Proceeds from Honor Your Teacher Tributes will be directed toward next year’s Achieve Teacher Grants. The deadline to order year-end tributes is Friday, June 14, but why not get a jump on it and order now?

Ordering Honor Your Teacher tributes is easy - do it today! Follow this link
https://tinyurl.com/HonorSOMSD to complete the tribute form.

You can pay via PayPal as long as your total order is for $10 or more.

Join the CHS Cheerleading Squad!

Please click HERE for information on how to be a part of the CHS Cheerleading Squad. Tryouts take place on June 4 & 5.

Join the Columbia High School Marching Band!

For the first time ever, 8th grade students will have the opportunity to experience the band while still in Middle School!  Please see the attached flyer for more information and details. It’s a great opportunity!

Please Help the HUB

The Hub is in need of snacks, please send in granola bars and fruit cups to the attention of HUB or Guidance.  Thank you!

Leadership Training Conference

This July the New Jersey Association of Student Councils will run it's 64th annual summer Leadership Training Conference.  All current members of MMS Student Council are invited to explore this opportunity. You're also welcome to attend if you're not a current Student Council member and thinking about being one next year.

The Leadership Training Conference is an overnight camp that takes place at The College of New Jersey in Ewing Township.  The registration fee is $450.00 and includes housing, meals and all conference activities. The dates for this year's LTC are July 10 - 13 and July 14 - 17.

Check out more registration information here!

Scholarship opportunities may be available.  Please inquire with Ms. O'Sullivan (mosulliv@somsd.k12.nj.us).

Special Ed Update

For 8th grade families to keep in mind for future AP, ACT & SAT testing. 9th graders who want to take the AP World History test next year & will need accommodations, should start the process early next Fall because it can take a few months to set up: at CHS, contact Mr Matt Endlich  (mendlich@somsd.k12.nj.us) for assistance with obtaining testing accommodations.

Students with an IEP or 504 Plan may receive test accommodations if they have been approved by the College Board for  SAT, SAT Subject tests, PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10 & AP Exams . See more details on requirements at the College Board website:

The ACT test requires a separate process, see the ACT site for details

More details can be found at UNDERSTOOD.ORG: 

Community Updates & Digital Backpack

Please click HERE for May's Digital Backpack featuring information from around our two towns! 

Maplewood Makos
Are you a Swimmer?  Makos Tryouts on Sunday May 26 & Sunday June 2, 8am-10am at the Maplewood Community Pool. Click HERE for details.

Field Hockey
Is your daughter interested in Field Hockey?  Click HERE to learn more about a clinic run by CHS players!

Gratefully yours,


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

Hello MMS Families -

On this long Memorial Day weekend, we wanted to take this time to honor our fallen military who answered America’s call to service and paid the ultimate price. “We thank you and we remember you.”

We also want to take this time to remember Mrs. Latoya Deck, a beloved MMS staff member who unexpectedly passed away this past week. Her passing will affect the many staff members and students she worked with daily. School counselors are available for any student or staff member wishing to talk about this sad event. We wanted all families to be aware of the situation so that you can discuss this with your child, as appropriate. Please contact the school if you feel that further follow-up with your child would be helpful. Our thoughts and well-wishes go out to her family, colleagues and friends.

Lastly, please help us in celebrating our Teachers and Staff for the annual Spring luncheon on May 31st.  We know the asks are a lot at the end of the year, but if you can contribute we greatly appreciate it. Most needed items are salads/sides, desserts and of course we always appreciate cash donations. https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0d48aead29a13-lets1

Best,
Sara & Deb
Your MMS HSA Co-Presidents

Testing

*Make-Up Dates are (5/28/19 – 5/31/19) if needed*

A Few Key Dates:

Monday, May 27th - SCHOOL CLOSED

Wednesday, May 29th @ 7 PM MMS Auditorium -- Chorus Concert

Thursday, June 20th  4 Hour day

Friday June 21st     4 Hour day & Last day School, 6th and 7th Grade!
--    8th Grade Moving Up ceremony 9 am.

Monday, June 24th     Half Day and Last day of school, 8th grade only

8th Grade Updates

Wednesday, June 12th - Pool Party, Students will walk after lunch and will be dismissed from the pool at 3:05. Parents are to make arrangements for students to either walk home or be picked up at that time. Permission slips to come.  Cost $2.

Wednesday, June 12th - Incoming parents information night 7 PM at Columbia, click HERE for flyer. (NOTE, This is a PARENTS/GUARDIAN only event!)

Tuesday, June 18th  - 8th Grade Dinner Dance at Maplewood Country Club 6:30 - 9:30 pm.  See attached letter and permission slip from Principal Gronau.

Friday, June 21st    8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony, 9am!  See attached letter from Principal Gronau.

Monday, June 24th    8th Grade Certificates handed out, last day of school for 8th grade. Open fun gym, details to follow!

7th Grade Updates

Thursday, June 20th - 7th grade Pool Party

8th Grade Dinner Dance Chaperones Needed for June 18th!  We need 7th grade parents to chaperone the 8th grade Dinner Dance - the evening of Tuesday, June 18. This is a great way to volunteer if helping out during the work day is challenging.  The Sign Up Genius is HERE: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/508054aaca82aa02-8thgrade

6th Grade Updates

Friday, May 31, 3:15-4:30 - 6th Grade Canteen

Paper and online permission slips & payment options available soon

Friday, June 21st - 6th Grade Pool Party

Fundraising

“It’s Never Too Late” No-Frills Fundraiser!
Even though the school year is almost over, our students still have lots of activities coming up.  If you meant to donate and didn’t get around to it, or if you already have donated but would like to give more, now’s your chance!  

Your MMS HSA can always use more funds to help subsidize the costs for many of these events and provide scholarships to students who may not be able to afford these opportunities.  Plus, thanks to the tireless work of our Treasurer, Mary Ellen Dawkins, we now have received non-profit status and are a 501c3!!!

If you are able, please take a moment to click HERE to donate to our “It’s Never Too Late” No-Frills Fundraiser.

Achieve Foundation/Honor Your Teacher

Thinking of end-of-year gifts for your child’s teachers? Not surprisingly, the gifts teachers appreciate most are their students’ heartfelt expressions of thanks. Make a donation to Achieve in honor of one or more of your child’s teachers, guidance counselors, coaches, crossing guards – any staff member in any SOMA school - and we’ll print your personal messages on note cards and deliver them to your designated staff members in June. Proceeds from Honor Your Teacher Tributes will be directed toward next year’s Achieve Teacher Grants. The deadline to order year-end tributes is Friday, June 14, but why not get a jump on it and order now?

Ordering Honor Your Teacher tributes is easy - do it today! Follow this link
https://tinyurl.com/HonorSOMSD to complete the tribute form.

You can pay via PayPal as long as your total order is for $10 or more.

Join the Columbia High School Marching Band!

For the first time ever, 8th grade students will have the opportunity to experience the band while still in Middle School!  Please see the attached flyer for more information and details. It’s a great opportunity!

Please Help the HUB

The Hub is in need of snacks, please send in granola bars and fruit cups to the attention of HUB or Guidance.  Thank you!

Leadership Training Conference

This July the New Jersey Association of Student Councils will run it's 64th annual summer Leadership Training Conference.  All current members of MMS Student Council are invited to explore this opportunity. You're also welcome to attend if you're not a current Student Council member and thinking about being one next year.

The Leadership Training Conference is an overnight camp that takes place at The College of New Jersey in Ewing Township.  The registration fee is $450.00 and includes housing, meals and all conference activities. The dates for this year's LTC are July 10 - 13 and July 14 - 17.

Check out more registration information here!

Scholarship opportunities may be available.  Please inquire with Ms. O'Sullivan (mosulliv@somsd.k12.nj.us).

Special Ed Update
For 8th grade families to keep in mind for future AP, ACT & SAT testing. 9th graders who want to take the AP World History test next year & will need accommodations, should start the process early next Fall because it can take a few months to set up: at CHS, contact Mr Matt Endlich  (mendlich@somsd.k12.nj.us) for assistance with obtaining testing accommodations.

Students with an IEP or 504 Plan may receive test accommodations if they have been approved by the College Board for  SAT, SAT Subject tests, PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10 & AP Exams . See more details on requirements at the College Board website:

The ACT test requires a separate process, see the ACT site for details

More details can be found at UNDERSTOOD.ORG: 

Community Updates & Digital Backpack

Please click HERE for May's Digital Backpack featuring information from around our two towns! 

Maplewood Makos
Are you a Swimmer?  Makos Tryouts on Sunday May 26 & Sunday June 2, 8am-10am at the Maplewood Community Pool. Click HERE for details.

Field Hockey
Is your daughter interested in Field Hockey?  Click HERE to learn more about a clinic run by CHS players!

Neighborhood Wifi Pilot
Calling all Maplewood residents, ages 14 and over!  Voting has begun in Maplewood’s first-ever “participatory budgeting process” and continues until 5/31. You can vote for two proposals on how to spend $50,000 allocated in Maplewood’s budget.  We urge you to cast one of your votes for the Neighborhood Wifi Pilot using this link:  https://www.twp.maplewood.nj.us/administration/pages/participatory-budgeting-program

The Neighborhood Wifi Pilot seeks to address the local “digital divide” by exploring and testing the feasibility of providing free and/or subsidized wifi-based internet to neighborhoods on the eastern side of town, as part of a larger effort to offer a cheaper alternative for internet access to businesses and residences throughout the community.

Access to online resources is essential to the full realization of educational and economic opportunities.  The "digital divide" refers to the gap between those that have unrestricted access to technological resources and those that do not. According to the PEW Research Center, some 15% of households with school-aged children do not have high speed access to the Internet. 17% of all teenagers report they are often or sometimes unable to finish homework due to a lack of technological resources.  Locally, 39% of MMS students did not access Google Suite for Education after 5 pm with an IP address outside of school last year. Online access does not just make homework more convenient. In Maplewood schools, students are expected to access Google classroom after school to determine assignments, complete schoolwork, and engage in dialogue with classmates. Residents use connectivity to make kindergarten registration appointments, register their children for courses at CHS, and access PowerSchool.  College applications are completed online. Beyond the school setting, online Township resources include Public Works and Cultural Affairs event schedules, emergency snow and storm information, and Recreation Department registration. Moreover, economic opportunities require online access, such as job applications and online educational programs. Homebound seniors on fixed incomes would benefit from online access to reduce isolation and increase safety.

Brought to scale, the proposal envisions a community-wide, self-sustaining Wifi network, funded by fees from its users, with enough surplus generated to provide ongoing free or reduced-price service to those in need.

Gratefully yours,


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

​

Hello MMS Families -

It was great to see so many families at MMS last week, the Band Concert had a wonderful showing and School in Action was such a success, for both current and incoming students. Our halls were bursting with energy and the classrooms were filled with creativity.

We are very proud of the dedication and hard work of our collective MMS family. Thank you for your continued support of your MMS HSA, “Where home and school meet to put students first!”

If you didn’t get a chance to purchase Kwame Alexander’s book, The Undefeated, or Kip Wilson’s book, White Rose, click HERE as we have a few copies left.  There is also an option to purchase a book to donate to a teacher/classroom!

Best,

Sara & Deb

Testing Dates

Grade 8:  Make-Up Dates are (5/20/19 – 5/24/19)

Tuesday, May 21st – Wednesday, May 22nd NJ Student Learning Assessment (Science)
*Make-Up Dates are (5/28/19 – 5/31/19) if needed*

A Few Key Dates:

Wednesday May, 22nd 3:15 PM -5:15 PM - The cast and crew of MMS Wizard of Oz DVD Viewing Party

Wednesday, May 22nd @ 7 PM MMS Auditorium -- Orchestra Concert

Wednesday, May 29th @ 7 PM MMS Auditorium -- Chorus Concert

Friday, June 21st    Last day School, 6th and 7th Grade! Moving Up ceremony 9 am.

Monday, June 24th Last day of school, 8th grade

8th Grade Dates

Thursday, May 23rd  - Field trip to Medieval Times in Lyndhurst, NJ

Wednesday, June 12th - Pool Party

Wednesday, June 12th - Incoming parents information night 7 PM at Columbia, click HERE for flyer. (NOTE, This is a PARENTS/GUARDIAN only event!)

Tuesday, June 18th  - 8th Grade Dinner Dance at Maplewood Country Club 6:30 - 9:30 pm.  See attached letter and permission slip from Principal Gronau.

Friday, June 21st    8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony, 9am!  See attached letter from Principal Gronau.

Monday, June 24th    8th Grade Certificates handed out, last day of school for 8th grade. Open fun gym, details to follow!

7th Grade Updates

Thursday, June 20th - 7th grade Pool Party

8th Grade Dinner Dance Chaperones Needed for June 18th!  We need 7th grade parents to chaperone the 8th grade Dinner Dance - the evening of Tuesday, June 18. This is a great way to volunteer if helping out during the work day is challenging.  The Sign Up Genius is HERE: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/508054aaca82aa02-8thgrade

6th Grade Updates

Friday, May 31, 3:15-4:30 - 6th Grade Canteen

Paper and online permission slips & payment options available soon

Friday, June 21st - 6th Grade Pool Party

Wizard of Oz Cast and Crew DVD Viewing Party

The cast and crew of MMS' Wizard of Oz production will participate in a viewing of the musical's DVD from 3:15 to 5:15.  Food and beverages will be provided for all students who sign up this Monday and Tuesday outside Ms. O’Sullivan’s class.

Fundraising

“It’s Never Too Late” No-Frills Fundraiser!
Even though the school year is almost over, our students still have lots of activities coming up.  If you meant to donate and didn’t get around to it, or if you already have donated but would like to give more, now’s your chance!  

Your MMS HSA can always use more funds to help subsidize the costs for many of these events and provide scholarships to students who may not be able to afford these opportunities.  Plus, thanks to the tireless work of our Treasurer, Mary Ellen Dawkins, we now have received non-profit status and are a 501c3!!!

If you are able, please take a moment to click HERE to donate to our “It’s Never Too Late” No-Frills Fundraiser.

Achieve Foundation/Honor Your Teacher

Thinking of end-of-year gifts for your child’s teachers? Not surprisingly, the gifts teachers appreciate most are their students’ heartfelt expressions of thanks. Make a donation to Achieve in honor of one or more of your child’s teachers, guidance counselors, coaches, crossing guards – any staff member in any SOMA school - and we’ll print your personal messages on note cards and deliver them to your designated staff members in June. Proceeds from Honor Your Teacher Tributes will be directed toward next year’s Achieve Teacher Grants. The deadline to order year-end tributes is Friday, June 14, but why not get a jump on it and order now?

Ordering Honor Your Teacher tributes is easy - do it today! Follow this link
https://tinyurl.com/HonorSOMSD to complete the tribute form.

You can pay via PayPal as long as your total order is for $10 or more.

Join the Columbia High School Marching Band!

For the first time ever, 8th grade students will have the opportunity to experience the band while still in Middle School!  Please see the attached flyer for more information and details. It’s a great opportunity!

Please Help the HUB

The Hub is in need of snacks, please send in granola bars and fruit cups to the attention of HUB or Guidance.  Thank you!

Special Ed Update

ATTENTION, Parents and Guardians of students of all grades-The last SEPAC (Special Education Parent Advisory Committee) meeting of the year:
Wednesday, May 22, 2019 7:30-9 pm
BOE building, 525 Academy, Maplewood
Meeting’s theme: Taking care of yourself as a Parent.  Come ready to:
*Share the highlights of the school year and your tips for staying balanced under the stress
*Get support and ideas for the summer ahead
*Help SEPAC leadership plan programming for the 2019-2020 school year/Learn about ways to get more actively involved with SEPAC
SEPAC strives to bring together parents and other community members with similar questions, issues and concerns about special education in the same room at the same time.
ALL WELCOME! Please attend.Also coming up in May at the BOE Building:

May 20 Special Siblings 4:00-5:30 PM Youth led support group, with Laura Reichgut LCW, for siblings (Grades 5-8) of people with special needs, drop off, snacks provided.

More information for all of these can be found here: https://www.theparentingcenter.info/resources/2018-19-Parent-Groups.pdf

For 8th grade families to keep in mind for future AP, ACT & SAT testing:

“Kids who get testing accommodations through an IEP or a 504 plan can often get the same accommodations on the ACT & SAT.    
Your child’s high school can be helpful in the application process.”

For 8th grade families to keep in mind for future AP, ACT & SAT testing. 9th graders who want to take the AP World History test next year & will need accommodations, should start the process early next Fall because it can take a few months to set up: at CHS, contact Mr Matt Endlich  (mendlich@somsd.k12.nj.us) for assistance with obtaining testing accommodations.

Students with an IEP or 504 Plan may receive test accommodations if they have been approved by the College Board for  SAT, SAT Subject tests, PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10 & AP Exams . See more details on requirements at the College Board website:

The ACT test requires a separate process, see the ACT site for details

More details can be found at UNDERSTOOD.ORG: 

Community Updates & Digital Backpack

Please click HERE for May's Digital Backpack featuring information from around our two towns! 

Maplewood Makos
Are you a Swimmer?  Makos Tryouts on Sunday May 26 & Sunday June 2, 8am-10am at the Maplewood Community Pool. Click HERE for details.

Field Hockey
Is your daughter interested in Field Hockey?  Click HERE to learn more about a clinic run by CHS players!

Neighborhood Wifi Pilot
Calling all Maplewood residents, ages 14 and over!  Voting has begun in Maplewood’s first-ever “participatory budgeting process” and continues until 5/31. You can vote for two proposals on how to spend $50,000 allocated in Maplewood’s budget.  We urge you to cast one of your votes for the Neighborhood Wifi Pilot using this link:  https://www.twp.maplewood.nj.us/administration/pages/participatory-budgeting-program

The Neighborhood Wifi Pilot seeks to address the local “digital divide” by exploring and testing the feasibility of providing free and/or subsidized wifi-based internet to neighborhoods on the eastern side of town, as part of a larger effort to offer a cheaper alternative for internet access to businesses and residences throughout the community.

Access to online resources is essential to the full realization of educational and economic opportunities.  The "digital divide" refers to the gap between those that have unrestricted access to technological resources and those that do not. According to the PEW Research Center, some 15% of households with school-aged children do not have high speed access to the Internet. 17% of all teenagers report they are often or sometimes unable to finish homework due to a lack of technological resources.  Locally, 39% of MMS students did not access Google Suite for Education after 5 pm with an IP address outside of school last year. Online access does not just make homework more convenient. In Maplewood schools, students are expected to access Google classroom after school to determine assignments, complete schoolwork, and engage in dialogue with classmates. Residents use connectivity to make kindergarten registration appointments, register their children for courses at CHS, and access PowerSchool.  College applications are completed online. Beyond the school setting, online Township resources include Public Works and Cultural Affairs event schedules, emergency snow and storm information, and Recreation Department registration. Moreover, economic opportunities require online access, such as job applications and online educational programs. Homebound seniors on fixed incomes would benefit from online access to reduce isolation and increase safety.

Brought to scale, the proposal envisions a community-wide, self-sustaining Wifi network, funded by fees from its users, with enough surplus generated to provide ongoing free or reduced-price service to those in need.

Gratefully yours,


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

Hello MMS Families -

Happy Mother’s Day to all of you celebrating!

This Thursday, May 16, is school-in-action night at MMS which means it’s a 4-hour day for our students. It’s a wonderful evening showcasing the many terrific things happening at our school!

A huge thank to all of the volunteers who made Teacher Appreciation Week so special for our teachers, staff, Nurse Porter and administrators!  I know they truly appreciated all of the thoughtful gestures and delicious treats. We hope you enjoyed the photos we posted to our Maplewood Middle School Families Facebook page.

At last week’s Board meeting we approved the slate for the 2019-2020 MMS HSA Executive Board, here are your leaders for next year!

• Presidents - Veronica Olazabal & Kelly Ann Harris
• Treasurer - Jessica Adler
• Recording Secretary - Jessica Greenberg
• Communications/Website - Suzanne Rowland
• Special Ed - Pam Donoghue
• Cultural Arts - Tracey Clarke & Rachel Fisher
• Fine Arts - Sara Knutsen
• Events - Mitch Center & Marian Ezell
• Fundraising - Beth Dobrish & Teal Paynter
• 6th Grade Reps - Lynne Daley, Sarah Iozzo, Amy Hayes & Wendy Moskowitz
• 7th Grade Reps - Yves Hart, Caryn Emmons & Ally Cherins
• 8th Grade Reps - Maureen Griffis & Mel Rose
• Special Projects: Library - Sheri McKinstrie, MakerSpace - Richard Marks
• Teacher Rep - Mr. Brian Kaplan

This year ALL THREE GRADES will be having pool parties at the Maplewood Pool! More info to come.

Also, if you didn’t get a chance to purchase Kwame Alexander’s book, The Undefeated, or Kip Wilson’s book, White Rose, click HERE as we have a few copies left.  There is also an option to purchase a book to donate to a teacher/classroom!

Finally, you should have received an email from the district on NJSLA testing, see below.6th grade starts Tomorrow. Click here for details as well as an email from Dr. Ficarra. Click here for Dr. Ficarra letter

Best,

Sara & Deb

Testing Dates
Grade 8: Monday (5/13/19) – Wednesday (5/15/19)
*Make-Up Dates are (5/20/19 – 5/24/19) if needed*
 
NJ Student Learning Assessment (Science)

Grade 8: Tuesday (5/21/19) – Wednesday (5/22/19)
*Make-Up Dates are (5/28/19 – 5/31/19) if needed*

A Few Key Dates:

Wednesday, May 15th - 7th Grade Field Trip to Turtle Back Zoo -- CHAPERONES NEEDED!

Wednesday, May 15th @ 7 PM MMS Auditorium -- Band Concert (please see flyer below)

Wednesday, May 15 - Conversations on Race Discussion - please see info below

Thursday, May 16th - ½ Day of School and School in Action night @7 PM- 9 PM at MMS!!

Saturday, May 18th  - the Unrun, www.unrun.com

Wednesday, May 22nd @ 7 PM MMS Auditorium -- Orchestra Concert

Wednesday, May 29th @ 7 PM MMS Auditorium -- Chorus Concert

Friday, June 21st    Last day School, 6th and 7th Grade!

Friday, June 21st.  6th grade pool party, dismissal from Maplewood Town Pool

8th Grade Dates

Thursday, May 23rd  - Field trip to Medieval Times in Lyndhurst, NJ

Tuesday, June 18th  - 8th Grade Dinner Dance at Maplewood Country Club 6:30 - 9:30 pm **We are looking for a parent to volunteer to take photos at this event**  

If you are interested, please contact Adrianna Donat: adrianna.donat@gmail.com and/or Thea Cogan-Drew: theacogandrew@gmail.com.  Thank you!

Friday, June 21st    8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony, 9am!

Monday, June 24th    8th Grade Certificates handed out, last day of school for 8th grade
Fundraising

“It’s Never Too Late” No-Frills Fundraiser!
Even though the school year is almost over, our students still have lots of activities coming up.  If you meant to donate and didn’t get around to it, or if you already have donated but would like to give more, now’s your chance!  

Your MMS HSA can always use more funds to help subsidize the costs for many of these events and provide scholarships to students who may not be able to afford these opportunities.  Plus, thanks to the tireless work of our Treasurer, Mary Ellen Dawkins, we now have received non-profit status and are a 501c3!!!

​If you are able, please take a moment to click HERE to donate to our “It’s Never Too Late” No-Frills Fundraiser.

7th grade update - URGENT

Zoo Field Trip
We still NEED chaperones for the 7th grade field trip! Our kids can’t go unless we have enough adults to accompany them on this trip.  PLEASE SIGN UP HERE: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409084AA5A82DA46-7thgrade1

8th Grade Dinner Dance Chaperones

Each year (so that the 8th graders can enjoy themselves at the dance without their parents) 7th grade parents chaperone this wonderful end-of-year celebration.  We’ll need several parents to be on-hand at the dance the evening of Tuesday, June 18. This is a great way to volunteer if helping out during the work day is challenging.  The Sign Up Genius is HERE: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/508054aaca82aa02-8thgrade

Math Packets and NJSLA Testing

Middle School math packets were sent out before break. Click here for online form

SOMSD Middle School Math Course Selection

You will select a math course for your child for the 2019-2020 school year.  The chart in the link shows the courses available at each grade level. The letter mailed home contains information about each course and your child's math performance.

Additionally, You should have received an email from the district on NJSLA testing, see below, Click here for details as well as an email from Dr. Ficarra. Click here for Dr. Ficarra letter

Conversations on Race: The Invention of Race and Its Implications

May 15th at 7:30, Seton Hall University

The Community Coalition on Race and Seton Hall University invite you to attend a conversation on race led by Dr. Nell Irvin Painter, author of the New York Times bestseller The History of White People, in which she discusses both the invention of race and also the frequent praise of "whiteness" for economic, scientific, and political ends. There is no charge for this event. Because of extremely limited parking, free shuttle service is being offered from the lower Columbia High School parking lot on Parker Avenue. Please click HERE for more information on the event and HERE to reserve seats on the shuttle.

Join the Columbia High School Marching Band!

For the first time ever, 8th grade students will have the opportunity to experience the band while still in Middle School!  Please see the attached flyer for more information and details. It’s a great opportunity!

Please Help the HUB

The Hub is in need of snacks, please send in granola bars and fruit cups to the attention of HUB or Guidance.  Thank you!

A Note from Nurse Porter

Please see the attached sheet for important information regarding seasonal allergies. Click HERE for the flyer.

School Supplies - Kids in Need!

Pencils or notebooks lying around? PLEASE DONATE IF YOU CAN! As we enter the final semester of the year, teachers and students could use some extra supplies. Please drop off extra notebooks, paper and folders to the grade team leaders or Ms. Miller.

Special Ed Update

Next SEPAC MEETING: May 22 - General support for all families / end of year wrap up, details to follow

Also coming up in May at the BOE Building:

May15 ADD/ADHD Parent Group 7:30-9PM

May 20 Special Siblings 4:00-5:30 PM Youth led support group, with Laura Reichgut LCW, for siblings (Grades 5-8) of people with special needs, drop off, snacks provided.

More information for all of these can be found here: https://www.theparentingcenter.info/resources/2018-19-Parent-Groups.pdf

For 8th grade families to keep in mind for future AP, ACT & SAT testing:“Kids who get testing accommodations through an IEP or a 504 plan can often get the same accommodations on the ACT & SAT.    

Your child’s high school can be helpful in the application process.”
For 8th grade families to keep in mind for future AP, ACT & SAT testing. 9th graders who want to take the AP World History test next year & will need accommodations, should start the process early next Fall because it can take a few months to set up: at CHS, contact Mr Matt Endlich  (mendlich@somsd.k12.nj.us)  for assistance with obtaining testing accommodations.
Students with an IEP or 504 Plan may receive test accommodations if they have been approved by the College Board for  SAT, SAT Subject tests, PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10 & AP Exams .  See more details on requirements at the College Board website: https://www.collegeboard.org/students-with-disabilities.

The ACT test requires a separate process, see the ACT site for details: http://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/registration/accommodations.html

More details can be found at UNDERSTOOD.ORG: https://www.understood.org/en/school-learning/partnering-with-childs-school/tests-standards/how-to-apply-for-sat-and-act-accommodations?fbclid=IwAR0Swnrv2hR4XdcQDXp5gV1RmWEco9-k6L6Y1-VS7xS9k0CITWm4-txOf1c

Special Needs Athletic Classes & Peer Mentorship
Please see the attached flyer for information for the Special Needs Athletic Classes & Peer Mentorship programs run by the Community First Sports Club.  Click HERE for more info.

Digital Backpack

Please click HERE for May's Digital Backpack featuring information from around our two towns! Also, please take a look at the below links for additional information.

Special Siblings
UnRun Flyer
Cougar Baseball Summer Camp
Flag Football
KickzSoccerCamp2019
Cool Rocket Scientist Summer Camp

Gratefully yours,
 

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

​

Hello MMS Families -

Happy May!  Hard to believe but we only about 7 weeks left of school!

As we’ve mentioned, spring has sprung and so has the pollen. It’s Allergy season which brings running noses and sneezing. Nurse Porter has asked us to remind parents of a few tips and of course, the teachers would really appreciate extra tissues.

Granola Bars and Fruit Cups Please! We have also been made aware that the HUB is in need of snacks. They are unable to meet the demand for snacks for students who come in after school. Their budget for snacks is limited and the number of kids coming in needing some sustenance between lunch and going home has increased. If you are able, please send in with your students or drop at the school. Please label - For HUB. Thank you!

Teacher Appreciation Week begins tomorrow!  If you would like to donate to the Breakfast on Friday, please see the sign up Genius HERE.  Also, I’m sure the teachers and staff would love any additional gesture of thanks from our students.

The schedule for the week is:

Monday -- potted herbs
Tuesday -- salty & sweet
Wednesday -- PM “pick me up”
Thursday -- make your day brighter -- highlighter and lottery ticket
Friday -- bagels and coffee, please see Sign Up Genius HERE

Middle School Math Course Selection was due this past Friday, May 3.

Additionally, you should have received an email from the district on NJSLA testing, see below.6th grade starts Tomorrow. Click here for details as well as an email from Dr. Ficarra. Click here for Dr. Ficarra letter

Best,
Sara & Deb

Testing Dates

Grade 7: Monday (5/6/19) – Wednesday (5/9/19)
Grade 8: Monday (5/13/19) – Wednesday (5/15/19)
*Make-Up Dates are (5/20/19 – 5/24/19) if needed*
 
NJ Student Learning Assessment (Science)
TESTING SCHEDULE
Grade 8: Tuesday (5/21/19) – Wednesday (5/22/19)
*Make-Up Dates are (5/28/19 – 5/31/19) if needed*

A Few Key Dates:

Week of May 6th - Teacher Appreciation Week *Stay tuned for daily needs

Monday, May 6th - 6th Grade Field Trip to the Intrepid

Wednesday, May 15th - 7th Grade Field Trip to Turtle Back Zoo -- CHAPERONES NEEDED!

Wednesday, May 15th @ 7 PM MMS Auditorium -- Band Concert (please see flyer below)

Wednesday, May 15 - Conversations on Race Discussion - please see info below

Thursday, May 16th - School in Action night at MMS

Saturday, May 18th  - the Unrun, www.unrun.com

Wednesday, May 22nd @ 7 PM MMS Auditorium -- Orchestra Concert

Wednesday, May 29th @ 7 PM MMS Auditorium -- Chorus Concert

8th Grade Dates
Wednesday, May 22   8th to 9th Grade Parent Program and Parent Tour at CHS (Info to come)

Thursday, May 23    Field trip to Medieval Times in Lyndhurst, NJ - Permission slips coming home soon

Tuesday, June 18    8th Grade Dinner Dance at Maplewood Country Club 6:30 - 9:30 pm

Friday, June 21    8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony, 9am

Monday, June 24    8th Grade Certificates handed out, last day of school for 8th grade (tentative, pending emergency days)

7th grade update - URGENT

Zoo Field Trip
We still NEED chaperones for the 7th grade field trip! Our kids can’t go unless we have enough adults to accompany them on this trip.  PLEASE SIGN UP HERE: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409084AA5A82DA46-7thgrade1

8th Grade Dinner Dance Chaperones

Each year (so that the 8th graders can enjoy themselves at the dance without their parents) 7th grade parents chaperone this wonderful end-of-year celebration.  We’ll need several parents to be on-hand at the dance the evening of Tuesday, June 18. This is a great way to volunteer if helping out during the work day is challenging.  The Sign Up Genius is HERE: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/508054aaca82aa02-8thgrade

Math Packets and NJSLA Testing

Middle School math packets were sent out before break. Click here for online form

SOMSD Middle School Math Course Selection
You will select a math course for your child for the 2019-2020 school year.  The chart in the link shows the courses available at each grade level. The letter mailed home contains information about each course and your child's math performance.

Additionally, You should have received an email from the district on NJSLA testing, see below, Click here for details as well as an email from Dr. Ficarra. Click here for Dr. Ficarra letter


Conversations on Race: The Invention of Race and Its Implications

May 15th at 7:30, Seton Hall University

The Community Coalition on Race and Seton Hall University invite you to attend a conversation on race led by Dr. Nell Irvin Painter, author of the New York Times bestseller The History of White People, in which she discusses both the invention of race and also the frequent praise of "whiteness" for economic, scientific, and political ends. There is no charge for this event. Because of extremely limited parking, free shuttle service is being offered from the lower Columbia High School parking lot on Parker Avenue. Please click HERE for more information on the event and HERE to reserve seats on the shuttle.

Join the Columbia High School Marching Band!

For the first time ever, 8th grade students will have the opportunity to experience the band while still in Middle School!  Please see the attached flyer for more information and details. It’s a great opportunity!

Please Help the HUB

The Hub is in need of snacks, please send in granola bars and fruit cups to the attention of HUB or Guidance.  Thank you!

A Note from Nurse Porter

Please see the attached sheet for important information regarding seasonal allergies. Click HERE for the flyer.

School Supplies - Kids in Need!

Pencils or notebooks lying around? PLEASE DONATE IF YOU CAN! As we enter the final semester of the year, teachers and students could use some extra supplies. Please drop off extra notebooks, paper and folders to the grade team leaders or Ms. Miller.

Fundraising

Spring Match Fundraiser!
8th grade activities can get expensive -- that’s why we have a Spring Match program for the 8th grade.  For every dollar you donate, a group of 8th grade parents will match it up to $500! Please click HERE for a “no frills 8th grade donation” that could raise at least $1,000 for our 8th graders in need!

ALSO, If anyone would like to host an 8th grade fundraiser, we would be most grateful. Last year some families raised significant funds with a small event.

No Frills / 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

Special Ed Update

Next SEPAC MEETING: May 22 - General support for all families / end of year wrap up, details to follow

Also coming up in May at the BOE Building:

May 6 7:30 - 9:00PM Navigating the Middle School Years- Cliques, Squads , Bullying & More Parents

May15 ADD/ADHD Parent Group 7:30-9PM

May 20 Special Siblings 4:00-5:30 PM Youth led support group, with Laura Reichgut LCW, for siblings (Grades 5-8) of people with special needs, drop off, snacks provided.

More information for all of these can be found here: https://www.theparentingcenter.info/resources/2018-19-Parent-Groups.pdf

For 8th grade families to keep in mind for future AP, ACT & SAT testing:
“Kids who get testing accommodations through an IEP or a 504 plan can often get the same accommodations on the ACT & SAT.    

Your child’s high school can be helpful in the application process.”
For 8th grade families to keep in mind for future AP, ACT & SAT testing. 9th graders who want to take the AP World History test next year & will need accommodations, should start the process early next Fall because it can take a few months to set up: at CHS, contact Mr Matt Endlich  (mendlich@somsd.k12.nj.us)  for assistance with obtaining testing accommodations.
Students with an IEP or 504 Plan may receive test accommodations if they have been approved by the College Board for  SAT, SAT Subject tests, PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10 & AP Exams .  See more details on requirements at the College Board website: https://www.collegeboard.org/students-with-disabilities.

The ACT test requires a separate process, see the ACT site for details: http://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/registration/accommodations.html

More details can be found at UNDERSTOOD.ORG: https://www.understood.org/en/school-learning/partnering-with-childs-school/tests-standards/how-to-apply-for-sat-and-act-accommodations?fbclid=IwAR0Swnrv2hR4XdcQDXp5gV1RmWEco9-k6L6Y1-VS7xS9k0CITWm4-txOf1c

https://www.theparentingcenter.info/resources/2018-19-Parent-Groups.pdf

Teacher Updates

From Ms. O’Sullivan
I created a DonorsChoose.org classroom request. Here is the link - PD to Reawaken the Spirit of Inquiry!  Give to my classroom by April 29, 2019 and your donation will be doubled thanks to DonorsChoose.org. Just enter the code LIFTOFF during checkout and you'll be matched dollar for dollar (up to $50).

In return, you'll get awesome photos of your gift in action and our heartfelt thanks.

Thank you so much,
Maureen

Digital Backpack

Please click HERE for May's Digital Backpack featuring information from around our two towns! Also, please take a look at the below links for additional information.

Special Siblings
UnRun Flyer
Cougar Baseball Summer Camp
Flag Football
KickzSoccerCamp2019
Cool Rocket Scientist Summer Camp


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

Hello MMS Families -

We mentioned this briefly last week, but spring has sprung and so has the pollen. Yep, it’s Allergy season which brings running noses and sneezing. Nurse Porter has asked us to remind parents of a few tips and of course, the teachers would really appreciate extra tissues.

Granola Bars and Fruit Cups Please! We have also been made aware that the HUB is in need of snacks. They are unable to meet the demand for snacks for students who come in after school. Their budget for snacks is limited and the number of kids coming in needing some sustenance between lunch and going home has increased. If you are able, please send in with your students or drop at the school. Please label - For HUB. Thank you!

We need volunteers for Teacher Appreciation week - it is next week. Please look for a dedicated email blast on how you can help.

Also a gentle reminder, please don’t forget to register for Middle School Math this week - the math packets were sent out before break. Click here for online form and read below for more details. Additionally, you should have received an email from the district on NJSLA testing, see below. Click here for details as well as an email from Dr. Ficarra. Click here for Dr. Ficarra letter

Best,

Sara & Deb

Testing Dates

Grade 6: Monday (4/29/19) – Wednesday (5/1/19)
Grade 7: Monday (5/6/19) – Wednesday (5/9/19)
Grade 8: Monday (5/13/19) – Wednesday (5/15/19)
*Make-Up Dates are (5/20/19 – 5/24/19) if needed*
 
NJ Student Learning Assessment (Science)
TESTING SCHEDULE
Grade 8: Tuesday (5/21/19) – Wednesday (5/22/19)
*Make-Up Dates are (5/28/19 – 5/31/19) if needed*

A Few Key Dates:

Week of May 6th - Teacher Appreciation Week *Stay tuned for daily needs

Monday, May 6th - 6th Grade Field Trip to the Intrepid

Wednesday, May 15th - 7th Grade Field Trip to Turtle Back Zoo

Thursday, May 16th - School in Action night at MMS

Saturday, May 18th  - the Unrun, www.unrun.com

8th Grade Dates

Wednesday, May 8    8th Grade Night at CHS, 6:30-8:30pm  (Info to follow)

Thursday, May 23    Field trip to Medieval Times in Lyndhurst, NJ - Permission slips coming home soon

Tuesday, June 18    8th Grade Dinner Dance at Maplewood Country Club

Friday, June 21    8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony, 9am

Monday, June 24    8th Grade Certificates handed out, last day of school for 8th grade (tentative, pending emergency days)

7th grade update

We still need chaperones for the 7th grade field trip! Please sign up.  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409084AA5A82DA46-7thgrade1

Math Packets and NJSLA Testing

Middle School math packets were sent out before break. Click here for online form

SOMSD Middle School Math Course Selection

You will select a math course for your child for the 2019-2020 school year.  The chart in the link shows the courses available at each grade level. The letter mailed home contains information about each course and your child's math performance.

Additionally, You should have received an email from the district on NJSLA testing, see below, Click here for details as well as an email from Dr. Ficarra. Click here for Dr. Ficarra letter

Join the Columbia High School Marching Band!

For the first time ever, 8th grade students will have the opportunity to experience the band while still in Middle School!  Please see the attached flyer for more information and details. It’s a great opportunity!

Master Class Dance Day with CHS Dancers

Have your dancer join in the Special Dance Company for a day of dance.  Your K-8th grader will experience first-hand what it’s like to be a part of this amazing group.  Please see attached flyer for info!

Please Help the HUB

The Hub is in need of snacks, please send in granola bars and fruit cups to the attention of HUB or Guidance.  Thank you!

A Note from Nurse Porter

Please see the attached sheet for important information regarding seasonal allergies. Click HERE for the flyer.

School Supplies - Kids in Need!

Pencils or notebooks lying around? PLEASE DONATE IF YOU CAN! As we enter the final semester of the year, teachers and students could use some extra supplies. Please drop off extra notebooks, paper and folders to the grade team leaders or Ms. Miller.

Fundraising

Spring Match Fundraiser!

8th grade activities can get expensive -- that’s why we have a Spring Match program for the 8th grade.  For every dollar you donate, a group of 8th grade parents will match it up to $500! Please click HERE for a “no frills 8th grade donation” that could raise at least $1,000 for our 8th graders in need!

ALSO, If anyone would like to host an 8th grade fundraiser, we would be most grateful. Last year some families raised significant funds with a small event.

No Frills / 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

Special Ed Update

For 8th grade families to keep in mind for future AP, ACT & SAT testing:
“Kids who get testing accommodations through an IEP or a 504 plan can often get the same accommodations on the ACT & SAT.    

Your child’s high school can be helpful in the application process.”
For 8th grade families to keep in mind for future AP, ACT & SAT testing. 9th graders who want to take the AP World History test next year & will need accommodations, should start the process early next Fall because it can take a few months to set up: at CHS, contact Mr Matt Endlich  (mendlich@somsd.k12.nj.us)  for assistance with obtaining testing accommodations.
Students with an IEP or 504 Plan may receive test accommodations if they have been approved by the College Board for  SAT, SAT Subject tests, PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10 & AP Exams .  See more details on requirements at the College Board website: https://www.collegeboard.org/students-with-disabilities.

The ACT test requires a separate process, see the ACT site for details: http://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/registration/accommodations.html

More details can be found at UNDERSTOOD.ORG: https://www.understood.org/en/school-learning/partnering-with-childs-school/tests-standards/how-to-apply-for-sat-and-act-accommodations?fbclid=IwAR0Swnrv2hR4XdcQDXp5gV1RmWEco9-k6L6Y1-VS7xS9k0CITWm4-txOf1c

https://www.theparentingcenter.info/resources/2018-19-Parent-Groups.pdf

At the Parenting Center in April:

Next SEPAC MEETING: May 22 - General support for all families / end of year wrap up

More information for all of these can be found here: https://www.theparentingcenter.info/resources/2018-19-Parent-Groups.pdf

Teacher Updates

From Ms. O’Sullivan
I created a DonorsChoose.orgclassroom request. Here is the link - PD to Reawaken the Spirit of Inquiry!  Give to my classroom by April 29, 2019 and your donation will be doubled thanks to DonorsChoose.org. Just enter the code LIFTOFF during checkout and you'll be matched dollar for dollar (up to $50).

In return, you'll get awesome photos of your gift in action and our heartfelt thanks.

Thank you so much,
Maureen

Digital Backpack

Please click HERE for April’s Digital Backpack featuring information from around our two towns! Also, please take a look at the below links for additional information.

Special Siblings
UnRun Flyer
Cougar Baseball Summer Camp
Flag Football
KickzSoccerCamp2019
Cool Rocket Scientist Summer Camp


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

Hello MMS Families -

Welcome back from Spring break!  We hope you and your students had a nice week and are ready to return back to finish up the year. The rest of the year will be busy -- there is a lot to keep track of and we will have requests for help. We will do our best to gather and get you the the information, so please try to read each week.

Spring has sprung and so has the pollen. Yep, it’s Allergy season which brings running noses and sneezing. Please consider sending in more tissues! Your teachers will thank you.

Middle School math packets were sent out before break. Click here for online form and read below for more details.

You should have received an email from the district on NJSLA testing, see below. Click here for details as well as an email from Dr. Ficarra. Click here for Dr. Ficarra letter

Spring YouthNet for most classes should begin this week, announcements will be made at school.

Best,

Sara & Deb

A Few Key Dates:

April 25th - Math INFO Night at the Middle School

Wednesday, May 15th - 7th Grade Field Trip to Turtle Back Zoo

Thursday, May 16 - School in Action - Save the date

8th Grade Dates

Wednesday, May 8    8th Grade Night at CHS, 6:30-8:30pm  (Info to follow)

Thursday, May 23    Field trip to Medieval Times in Lyndhurst, NJ - Permission slips coming home soon

Tuesday, June 18    8th Grade Dinner Dance at Maplewood Country Club

Friday, June 21    8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony, 9am

Monday, June 24    8th Grade Certificates handed out, last day of school for 8th grade (tentative, pending emergency days)

7th Grade Update

The 7th Grade field trip to Turtleback Zoo!  We need chaperones. A great opportunity to check out the zoo animals and hang with your middle schooler.

When: May 15th
What:  We are looking for 15 chaperones for the trip.  
Details:  Chaperones are asked to arrive at Maplewood Middle School between 9 and 9:15 am and will ride on the buses with students to and from the zoo.  The buses will arrive back at Maplewood Middle School by 2:30 pm.

Please sign up if you are interested and able (you may have to pay for your admission to the Zoo unless of course you have a family membership).

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409084AA5A82DA46-7thgrade1

Math Packets and NJSLA Testing

Middle School math packets were sent out before break. Click here for online form

SOMSD Middle School Math Course Selection
You will select a math course for your child for the 2019-2020 school year.  The chart in the link shows the courses available at each grade level. The letter mailed home contains information about each course and your child's math performance.

Additionally, You should have received an email from the district on NJSLA testing, see below, Click here for details as well as an email from Dr. Ficarra. Click here for Dr. Ficarra letter

Join the Columbia High School Marching Band!

For the first time ever, 8th grade students will have the opportunity to experience the band while still in Middle School!  Please see the attached flyer for more information and details. It’s a great opportunity!

Master Class Dance Day with CHS Dancers

Have your dancer join in the Special Dance Company for a day of dance.  Your K-8th grader will experience first-hand what it’s like to be a part of this amazing group.  Please see attached flyer for info!

Spring YouthNet

Spring YouthNet begins! Some classes may still have availability. Click HERE for more information.

YouthNet  - Curls on the Move

Still Room! Special Wednesday Offering Curls on the Move with Ms. Graham. Curls on the Move (COTM) is a hair, health, and self-care curriculum specifically for adolescent girls of African Descent, but all are welcome. Hands-on learning opportunities, self-esteem building, physical activities and more... See Ms. Graham in Room 153 for more information and registration. Cost is $40 for the spring session.

A Note from Nurse Porter

Please see the attached sheet for important information regarding seasonal allergies. Click HERE for the flyer.

School Supplies - Kids in Need!

Pencils or notebooks lying around? PLEASE DONATE IF YOU CAN! As we enter the final semester of the year, teachers and students could use some extra supplies. Please drop off extra notebooks, paper and folders to the grade team leaders or Ms. Miller.

Fundraising

Spring Match Fundraiser!
8th grade activities can get expensive -- that’s why we have a Spring Match program for the 8th grade.  For every dollar you donate, a group of 8th grade parents will match it up to $500! Please click HERE for a “no frills 8th grade donation” that could raise at least $1,000 for our 8th graders in need!

ALSO, If anyone would like to host an 8th grade fundraiser, we would be most grateful. Last year some families raised significant funds with a small event.

No Frills / 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

Special Ed Update

For 8th grade families to keep in mind for future AP, ACT & SAT testing:

“Kids who get testing accommodations through an IEP or a 504 plan can often get the same accommodations on the ACT & SAT.    
Your child’s high school can be helpful in the application process.”

For 8th grade families to keep in mind for future AP, ACT & SAT testing. 9th graders who want to take the AP World History test next year & will need accommodations, should start the process early next Fall because it can take a few months to set up: at CHS, contact Mr Matt Endlich  (mendlich@somsd.k12.nj.us)  for assistance with obtaining testing accommodations.

Students with an IEP or 504 Plan may receive test accommodations if they have been approved by the College Board for  SAT, SAT Subject tests, PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10 & AP Exams .  See more details on requirements at the College Board website: https://www.collegeboard.org/students-with-disabilities.

The ACT test requires a separate process, see the ACT site for details: http://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/registration/accommodations.html

More details can be found at UNDERSTOOD.ORG: https://www.understood.org/en/school-learning/partnering-with-childs-school/tests-standards/how-to-apply-for-sat-and-act-accommodations?fbclid=IwAR0Swnrv2hR4XdcQDXp5gV1RmWEco9-k6L6Y1-VS7xS9k0CITWm4-txOf1c

https://www.theparentingcenter.info/resources/2018-19-Parent-Groups.pdf

At the Parenting Center in April:

• April 23: Raising Children to be Emotionally Healthy Eaters With : Suzanne Rubinetti, L.C.S.W, Eating Disorder Specialist 7:30 @ Tuscan School

Also coming up in April at the BOE Building:

April 3  2E (Twice Exceptional) Parent Support Group 9:30 AM

April 8 Special Siblings 4:00-5:30 PM Youth led support group, with Laura Reichgut LCW, for siblings (Grades 5-8) of people with special needs, drop off, snacks provided.

April 8 Screen Smart Kids 7PM

April 10 ADD/ADHD Parent Group 7:30-9PM (change of day due to Spring Break)

April 16 Selective Mutism Parent Group 7-8:30 PM

Next SEPAC MEETING: May 22 - General support for all families / end of year wrap up

More information for all of these can be found here: https://www.theparentingcenter.info/resources/2018-19-Parent-Groups.pdf

Teacher Updates

Tissues, please.

Digital Backpack

Please click HERE for April’s Digital Backpack featuring information from around our two towns!

Gratefully yours,

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

Hello MMS Families -

We have had another busy week at MMS with author visits and assemblies. Please ask your MMS students about the special things they experienced at school this week!  A special thank you to our Cultural Arts Chairs Tracey Clark and Rachel Fisher, and Library Media Specialist Evyn Degnan for planning these amazing events for our kids!

A reminder that this is the last full week of school before Spring Break -- there is no school the week of April 15 - 19.  We’ll see you back at MMS on Monday, April 22!

Spring YouthNet brochures and permission slips are now available! 

We have updated key dates along with the new, confirmed date for the MOVING UP CEREMONY for 8th grade families - please take a read. We would love to see you at the community events!

Best,
Sara & Deb
A Few Key Dates:

Monday, April 15 - Yearbook orders due
April 15 - 19 - SPRING BREAK
April 25th - Math INFO Night at the Middle School
Wednesday, May 15th - 7th Grade Field Trip to Turtle Back Zoo
Thursday, May 16 - School in Action - Save the date

8th Grade Dates

Monday, April 15.     Yearbook orders due
Wednesday, May 8  8th Grade Night at CHS, 6:30-8:30pm  (Info to follow)
Thursday, May 23    Field trip to Medieval Times in Lyndhurst, NJ - Permission slips coming home soon
Tuesday, June 18    8th Grade Dinner Dance at Maplewood Country Club
Friday, June 21        8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony, 9am
Monday, June 24     8th Grade Certificates handed out, last day of school for 8th grade (tentative, pending emergency days)

Join the Columbia High School Marching Band!

For the first time ever, 8th grade students will have the opportunity to experience the band while still in Middle School!  Please see the attached flyer for more information and details. It’s a great opportunity!Master Class Dance Day with CHS Dancers

Have your dancer join in the Special Dance Company for a day of dance.  Your K-8th grader will experience first-hand what it’s like to be a part of this amazing group.  Please see attached flyer for info!
Spring YouthNet Sign Ups

Spring YouthNet is here!  Please take a look at what is on offer for Spring and take a moment to sign up -- lots of fun opportunities!  Click HERE for more information.YouthNet  - Curls on the Move

Still Room! Special Wednesday Offering Curls on the Move with Ms. Graham. Curls on the Move (COTM) is a hair, health, and self-care curriculum specifically for adolescent girls of African Descent, but all are welcome. Hands-on learning opportunities, self-esteem building, physical activities and more... See Ms. Graham in Room 153 for more information and registration. Cost is $40 for the spring session.
A Note from Nurse Porter

Please see the attached sheet for important information regarding seasonal allergies. Click HERE for the flyer.

Yearbook Order Information
Yearbooks: Order your yearbooks now, orders end on April 15, 2019. Details here:  Yearbook Order Form

School Supplies - Kids in Need!

Pencils or notebooks lying around? PLEASE DONATE IF YOU CAN! As we enter the final semester of the year, teachers and students could use some extra supplies. Please drop off extra notebooks, paper and folders to the grade team leaders or Ms. Miller.

Fundraising

Spring Match Fundraiser!

8th grade activities can get expensive -- that’s why we have a Spring Match program for the 8th grade.  For every dollar you donate, a group of 8th grade parents will match it up to $500! Please click HERE for a “no frills 8th grade donation” that could raise at least $1,000 for our 8th graders in need!

ALSO, If anyone would like to host an 8th grade fundraiser, we would be most grateful. Last year some families raised significant funds with a small event.

No Frills / 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

Special Ed Update

For 8th grade families to keep in mind for future AP, ACT & SAT testing:

“Kids who get testing accommodations through an IEP or a 504 plan can often get the same accommodations on the ACT & SAT.

Your child’s high school can be helpful in the application process.”

For 8th grade families to keep in mind for future AP, ACT & SAT testing. 9th graders who want to take the AP World History test next year & will need accommodations, should start the process early next Fall because it can take a few months to set up: at CHS, contact Mr Matt Endlich  (mendlich@somsd.k12.nj.us)  for assistance with obtaining testing accommodations.

Students with an IEP or 504 Plan may receive test accommodations if they have been approved by the College Board for  SAT, SAT Subject tests, PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10 & AP Exams .  See more details on requirements at the College Board website: https://www.collegeboard.org/students-with-disabilities.

The ACT test requires a separate process, see the ACT site for details: http://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/registration/accommodations.html

More details can be found at UNDERSTOOD.ORG: https://www.understood.org/en/school-learning/partnering-with-childs-school/tests-standards/how-to-apply-for-sat-and-act-accommodations?fbclid=IwAR0Swnrv2hR4XdcQDXp5gV1RmWEco9-k6L6Y1-VS7xS9k0CITWm4-txOf1c

https://www.theparentingcenter.info/resources/2018-19-Parent-Groups.pdf

At the Parenting Center in April:
• April 23: Raising Children to be Emotionally Healthy Eaters With : Suzanne Rubinetti, L.C.S.W, Eating Disorder Specialist 7:30 @ Tuscan School

Also coming up in April at the BOE Building:

April 3  2E (Twice Exceptional) Parent Support Group 9:30 AM

April 8 Special Siblings 4:00-5:30 PM Youth led support group, with Laura Reichgut LCW, for siblings (Grades 5-8) of people with special needs, drop off, snacks provided.

April 8 Screen Smart Kids 7PM

April 10 ADD/ADHD Parent Group 7:30-9PM (change of day due to Spring Break)

April 16 Selective Mutism Parent Group 7-8:30 PM

Next SEPAC MEETING: May 22 - General support for all families / end of year wrap up

More information for all of these can be found here: https://www.theparentingcenter.info/resources/2018-19-Parent-Groups.pdf

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

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.

Teacher Updates

From Mr. Kessler:  New YouthNet Club in the Spring - Challenge 24 is a fun math game where students compete against each other to find a way to add, subtract, multiply or divide 4 given numbers to get to 24.  The game builds terrific number sense in a fun and challenging environment. Members of the club will be selected to go on a field trip to Millburn Middle School in June, where we will compete against other Essex County schools at a Challenge 24 tournament.  A bunch of kids competing against each other showing off their math skills... what could be better? I would like to invite students of all abilities to come out and join the fun and learn something too.

From Ms. Amaral:  Ms. Amaral is running a Donors Choose campaign for flexible seating in her classroom. Any contributions would be much appreciated! To donate, visit https://www.donorschoose.org/ and enter our zip code - 07040. Find the campaign led by "Ms. A" and contribute as you see fit!

Digital Backpack

Please click HERE for April’s Digital Backpack featuring information from around our two towns!

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

Hello MMS Families -
On Thursday MMS hosted current 5th graders who will join MMS next year as the new class of 6th graders!  It was a great night and I know that the parents and kids are excited to join our MMS community. Thanks to everyone who made them feel so welcome!
A very special thank you to the many MMS parents who have volunteered to be a part of the MMS HSA for the 2019-2020 school year -- the Board is full and we are thrilled with the great group of parents who are going to lead the MMS HSA next year. You’ll be in great hands!
Spring YouthNet brochures and permission slips are now available!  Please see the link below to sign up.
We have updated key dates along with the new, confirmed date for the MOVING UP CEREMONY for 8th grade families - please take a read. We would love to see you at the community events!
Best,
Sara & Deb
A Few Key Dates:

• Monday, April 1 -  Well-wishers orders for yearbook due!!
  
• April 4 - Author visit to MMS - Kwame Alexander!
  
• Monday, April 15 - Yearbook orders due
  
• April 15 - 19 - SPRING BREAK
  
• April 25th - Math INFO Night at the Middle School
  
• Wednesday, May 15th - 7th Grade Field Trip to Turtle Back Zoo
  
• Thursday, May 16 - School in Action - Save the date
  

8th Grade Dates

• Monday, April 1    Well-wishers orders for yearbook due - last day!
  
• Monday, April 15    Yearbook orders due
  
• Wednesday, May 8    8th Grade Night at CHS, 6:30-8:30pm  (Info to follow)
  
• Thursday, May 23    Field trip to Medieval Times in Lyndhurst, NJ - Permission slips coming home soon
  
• Tuesday, June 18    8th Grade Dinner Dance at Maplewood Country Club
  
• Friday, June 21    8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony, 9am
  
• Monday, June 24    8th Grade Certificates handed out, last day of school for 8th grade (tentative, pending emergency days)
  

Author Visits to MMS - Get Excited!!!
On Thursday, April 4, Newberry Award-winning author Kwame Alexander is coming to MMS!  This is a very special opportunity for our kids. Books are available for sale so please take a moment to purchase one and get an autograph from Kwame!
On April 4, Newberry Award-winning author Kwame Alexander will be visiting MMS with Kip Wilson as a part of his Versify Tour!  A special thanks to Library Media Specialist Evyn Degnan for organizing. Please click HERE to purchase their latest books and for more information!
Spring YouthNet Sign Ups
Spring YouthNet is here!  Please take a look at what is on offer for Spring and take a moment to sign up -- lots of fun opportunities!  Click HERE for more information.
YouthNet  - Curls on the Move
Still Room! Special Wednesday Offering Curls on the Move with Ms. Graham. Curls on the Move (COTM) is a hair, health, and self-care curriculum specifically for adolescent girls of African Descent, but all are welcome. Hands-on learning opportunities, self-esteem building, physical activities and more... See Ms. Graham in Room 153 for more information and registration. Cost is $40 for the spring session.
A Note from Nurse Porter
Please see the attached sheet for important information regarding seasonal allergies. Click HERE for the flyer.
Yearbooks and Well Wisher Ads Order Information
Well Wishers Ads DUE MONDAY APRIL 1 --  If you’d like to place an ad for your child, orders are due on April 1, 2019. Details here:  Well Wishers Info
Yearbooks: Order your yearbooks now, orders end on April 15, 2019. Details here:  Yearbook Order Form
Kids & Screen Time
April 1 - Back by popular demand...Screenagers!  This film looks at the dangers of too much screen use and the need for families to discuss its place in their lives.  This movie is great for grades 3 and up, so please parents, grandparents, caregivers, and kids come and view... guaranteed to open a great dialogue. Please see flyer HERE
School Supplies
Kids in Need!
Pencils or notebooks lying around? PLEASE DONATE IF YOU CAN! As we enter the final semester of the year, teachers and students could use some extra supplies. Please drop off extra notebooks, paper and folders to the grade team leaders or Ms. Miller.
Fundraising

• 8th Grade
  
  March Match Fundraiser! 8th grade activities can get expensive -- that’s why we have a March Match program for the 8th grade.  For every dollar you donate, a group of 8th grade parents will match it up to $500! Please click HERE for a “no frills 8th grade donation” that could raise at least $1,000 for our 8th graders in need!
  
  ALSO, If anyone would like to host an 8th grade fundraiser, we would be most grateful. Last year some families raised significant funds with a small event. OR - you can donate directly to the 8th grade fund HERE.
  
  No Frills / 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
  

Special Ed Update
At the Parenting Center in April:
• April 1: Navigating the Middle School Years- Cliques, Squads , Bullying & More-  7-9:30 PM, BOE Building, 525 Academy
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)
• April 23: Raising Children to be Emotionally Healthy Eaters With : Suzanne Rubinetti, L.C.S.W, Eating Disorder Specialist 7:30 @ Tuscan School
Also coming up in April at the BOE Building:

• April 3  2E (Twice Exceptional) Parent Support Group 9:30 AM
  
• April 8 Special Siblings 4:00-5:30 PM Youth led support group, with Laura Reichgut LCW, for siblings (Grades 5-8) of people with special needs, drop off, snacks provided.
  
• April 8 Screen Smart Kids 7PM
  
• April 10 ADD/ADHD Parent Group 7:30-9PM (change of day due to Spring Break)
  
• April 16 Selective Mutism Parent Group 7-8:30 PM
  

Next SEPAC MEETING: May 22 - General support for all families / end of year wrap up
More information for all of these can be found here: https://www.theparentingcenter.info/resources/2018-19-Parent-Groups.pdf
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
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.
Teacher Updates
From Mr. Kessler:  New YouthNet Club in the Spring - Challenge 24 is a fun math game where students compete against each other to find a way to add, subtract, multiply or divide 4 given numbers to get to 24.  The game builds terrific number sense in a fun and challenging environment. Members of the club will be selected to go on a field trip to Millburn Middle School in June, where we will compete against other Essex County schools at a Challenge 24 tournament.  A bunch of kids competing against each other showing off their math skills... what could be better? I would like to invite students of all abilities to come out and join the fun and learn something too.
From Ms. Amaral:  Ms. Amaral is running a Donors Choose campaign for flexible seating in her classroom. Any contributions would be much appreciated! To donate, visit https://www.donorschoose.org/ and enter our zip code - 07040. Find the campaign led by "Ms. A" and contribute as you see fit!

Digital Backpack

Please click below for links to this month’s Digital Backpack -- lots of great information and resources on what’s happening for kids in our community!

Cougar Baseball Camp
Code the Future
Jaguar Outdoor Track Season
Summer Rocket Camp
Tae Kwon Do Spring

South Orange Activities
Please see the links below to the many activities that South Orange offers to residents of both South Orange and Maplewood.

• South Orange 2019 Pickleball Spring & Summer
• South Orange Baseball 2019
• South Orange 2019 Tennis Spring & Summer
• South Orange 2019 Spring and Summer  Sports USSI

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

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