Blog Archives

MMS HSA Weekly Update #13

11/25/2018

Hello MMS Families -

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

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

A Few Key Dates:

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

HSA eBlast update

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

6th Grade Update :

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

Letters From Anne and Martin

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

Visiting Mentor Program

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

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

MMS Library Volunteers needed!

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

Musical Updates

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

Community Backpack

Click here for the November 2018 flyers!

Superintendent Search

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

Special Ed Update

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

No Frills and Fundraising

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

Tissues and School Store

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

MightyNest

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

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

The most popular membership is the MightyFix. For $10/month you'll receive one amazing product each month that helps your family live healthier and greener while earning $1 each month for our school. The product is always worth more than $10 retail, ships free and you also get free shipping on anything else you add to your MightyFix.

Get your first month of the MightyFix for only $5 when you use promo code SCHOOLFIX5
New members who signup for the annual MightyFix subscription earn an extra $8 for our school during the first year, for a total of $20 to our school! If you use the promo code SCHOOLFIX5 you can get a bonus two months free with an annual subscription.
Our school must earn $100 by May 31st to earn our payout check, so the sooner you sign up, the better for our school!

Other membership options include healthy body care, natural feminine care, and home essentials. Please check it out!
Gratefully yours,

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

MMS HSA Weekly Update #12

11/18/2018

Hello MMS Families -

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

A Few Key Dates:

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

HSA eBlast update

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

7th Grade Block Party

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

6th Grade Update

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

Best,
6th Grade Team Leaders

Special Ed Update

November Family Support Group meetings at the BOE Building:

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

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

Other upcoming Family Support Group meetings at the BOE Building:

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

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

Letters From Anne and Martin

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

Visiting Mentor Program

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

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

MMS Library Volunteers needed!

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

Musical Updates

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

Click here for the November 2018 flyers!

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

No Frills and Fundraising

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

Tissues and School Store

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

MightyNest

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

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

The most popular membership is the MightyFix. For $10/month you'll receive one amazing product each month that helps your family live healthier and greener while earning $1 each month for our school. The product is always worth more than $10 retail, ships free and you also get free shipping on anything else you add to your MightyFix.

Get your first month of the MightyFix for only $5 when you use promo code SCHOOLFIX5
New members who signup for the annual MightyFix subscription earn an extra $8 for our school during the first year, for a total of $20 to our school! If you use the promo code SCHOOLFIX5 you can get a bonus two months free with an annual subscription.
Our school must earn $100 by May 31st to earn our payout check, so the sooner you sign up, the better for our school!

Other membership options include healthy body care, natural feminine care, and home essentials. Please check it out!

Dr. Ficarra Weekend Email

Dear SOMSD Community,

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

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

The Superintendent is recommending the following:

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

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

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

Additional options:

$3.6M to Expand Pre-School
$15.2M to Add A/C to Schools
$1.2M to Replace Turf at Underhill Field
$0.6M on Observatory/Planetarium
$2.4M to Reinforce Slate Roofs for Solar Panel Installation
$20.6M to Reinforce Flat Roofs for Solar Panel Installation

The District expects to go out for bonding in early 2019.
South Orange Maplewood School District

Gratefully yours,

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

MMS HSA Weekly Update #11

11/12/2018

Hello MMS Families -

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

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

A Few Key Dates:

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

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

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

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

Photos and Retakes

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

7th Grade Block Party

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

6th Grade Update

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

Special Ed Update

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

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

Letters From Anne and Martin

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

Beyond Measure

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

Visiting Mentor Program

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

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

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

MLKA Club and MMS Step Team

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

MMS Library Volunteers needed!

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

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

Musical Updates

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

Community Backpack

Click here for the November 2018 flyers!

Superintendent Search

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

No Frills and Fundraising

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

Tissues and School Store

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

MightyNest

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

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

The most popular membership is the MightyFix. For $10/month you'll receive one amazing product each month that helps your family live healthier and greener while earning $1 each month for our school. The product is always worth more than $10 retail, ships free and you also get free shipping on anything else you add to your MightyFix.

Get your first month of the MightyFix for only $5 when you use promo code SCHOOLFIX5
New members who signup for the annual MightyFix subscription earn an extra $8 for our school during the first year, for a total of $20 to our school! If you use the promo code SCHOOLFIX5 you can get a bonus two months free with an annual subscription.
Our school must earn $100 by May 31st to earn our payout check, so the sooner you sign up, the better for our school!

Other membership options include healthy body care, natural feminine care, and home essentials. Please check it out!

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

MMS HSA Weekly Update #10

11/7/2018

Hello MMS Families!

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

A Few Key Dates:

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

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

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

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

Photos and Retakes

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

Special Ed Update

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

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

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

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

Also in November at the BOE Building:

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

Letters From Anne and Martin

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

Beyond Measure

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

Visiting Mentor Program

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

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

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

MLKA Club and MMS Step Team

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

MMS Library Volunteers needed!

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

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

Musical Updates

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

Community Backpack

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

No Frills and Fundraising

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

Tissues and School Store

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

MightyNest

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

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

The most popular membership is the MightyFix. For $10/month you'll receive one amazing product each month that helps your family live healthier and greener while earning $1 each month for our school. The product is always worth more than $10 retail, ships free and you also get free shipping on anything else you add to your MightyFix.

Get your first month of the MightyFix for only $5 when you use promo code SCHOOLFIX5
New members who signup for the annual MightyFix subscription earn an extra $8 for our school during the first year, for a total of $20 to our school! If you use the promo code SCHOOLFIX5 you can get a bonus two months free with an annual subscription.
Our school must earn $100 by May 31st to earn our payout check, so the sooner you sign up, the better for our school!

Other membership options include healthy body care, natural feminine care, and home essentials. Please check it out!

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

Gratefully yours,

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

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

MMS HSA Weekly Update #9

11/7/2018

Hello MMS Families!

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

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

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

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

A Few Key Dates:

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

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

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

Photos

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

Visiting Mentor Program

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

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

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

MLKA Club and MMS Step Team

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

MMS Library Volunteers Needed!

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

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

Musical Updates

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

Special Ed Update
Upcoming Family Support Group meetings,all meetings at the BOE Building, 525 Academy St unless otherwise noted:

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

Superintendent Search

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

Tissues and School Store

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

No Frills and Fundraising

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

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

MightyNest

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

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

The most popular membership is the MightyFix. For $10/month you'll receive one amazing product each month that helps your family live healthier and greener while earning $1 each month for our school. The product is always worth more than $10 retail, ships free and you also get free shipping on anything else you add to your MightyFix.

Get your first month of the MightyFix for only $5 when you use promo code SCHOOLFIX5
New members who signup for the annual MightyFix subscription earn an extra $8 for our school during the first year, for a total of $20 to our school! If you use the promo code SCHOOLFIX5 you can get a bonus two months free with an annual subscription.
Our school must earn $100 by May 31st to earn our payout check, so the sooner you sign up, the better for our school!

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

Gratefully yours,

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

MMS HSA Weekly Update #8

11/7/2018

Hello MMS Families!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Musical Updates

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

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

Upcoming Family Support Group meetings:

(All meetings at the BOE Building, 525 Academy St, unless otherwise noted):

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

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

Tissues and School Store

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

No Frills and Fundraising

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

MightyNest

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

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

The most popular membership is the MightyFix. For $10/month you'll receive one amazing product each month that helps your family live healthier and greener while earning $1 each month for our school. The product is always worth more than $10 retail, ships free and you also get free shipping on anything else you add to your MightyFix.

Get your first month of the MightyFix for only $5 when you use promo code SCHOOLFIX5
New members who signup for the annual MightyFix subscription earn an extra $8 for our school during the first year, for a total of $20 to our school! If you use the promo code SCHOOLFIX5 you can get a bonus two months free with an annual subscription.
Our school must earn $100 by May 31st to earn our payout check, so the sooner you sign up, the better for our school!

Other membership options include healthy body care, natural feminine care, and home essentials. Please check it out!

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

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