What a wonderful summer we have had! I hope that the sunshine and blue skies have allowed you to relax and unwind. As we embark upon the new academic year, there is a lot to look forward to. This newsletter is abundant with answers to many common questions that may be lingering in the minds of the students and parents. Inside, you will find out about the Rules of Dress, 7th Grade Immunizations, Supply Lists, Bus Routes, and a last minute reminder about the Summer Math Packets. On the cover of this newsletter you will find your child’s homeroom teacher assignment for the 2010-2011 school year.
As you know, the sixth and seventh grades will be traveling in “pods” this year as opposed to homerooms. This has allowed for students to be flexibly grouped, ensuring that we meet the academics needs of all students to the best of our abilities. Students will be informed of their “pod” mates the first day of school. Students will be encouraged to formulate study groups and study buddies. Exchanging emails to check on homework assignments, projects, et cetera will be beneficial. We are excited to see how students respond to this structure. Feedback from students and families is welcomed.
Each year we greet new staff to the Middle School. Some are familiar faces from other schools or positions in district and others are brand new to us all. No matter the case, we are pleased to welcome:
Ms. Melissa Lake Guidance
Ms. Beth Lombardi 7th Grade English
Mr. Justin Wheatley 7th/8th Grade Reading Specialist
Ms. April Duso 5th /6th Grade Special Education
Ms. Rachel Parzivand 7th Grade Special Education
Mrs. Martha Guild 5th Grade Educational Teaching Assistant
TBD 5th Grade Math/Science
Open House for Smith Middle School is Wednesday, September 22 for 7/8 grades and Thursday, September 23 for 5/6 grades. Both evenings will begin promptly at 6 p.m. in the school’s cafeteria. As always, we encourage all parents and guardians to attend. This year however, there will be new information shared relative to the Student Handbook and the Code of Discipline that will be critical for parents and guardians. Please plan for additional time. Teachers will also share essential information on how to help your student meet with success in the coming school year, discuss the curriculum, and inform you of various programs and events that will take place this year.
School pictures will be early again this year. They are scheduled for Thursday, September 16 for all grades 5-8. Please mark your calendars accordingly.
As you enjoy the final days of summer, please think about the great year ahead. We eagerly await the challenges and the successes that lay before us!
Best,
Erica A. Faginski-Stark
Snow Closure Information
The following information will assist you when the weather is uncooperative. Emergency closure/delayed start decisions are made beginning at
5:30 A.M. for the day. Information is provided to the following media: WGGB (Ch. 40), WWLP (Ch. 22), and WSHM-CBS (Ch. 3) on the television and the following radio stations: WHYN (560 AM and 93 FM), WTTT (100.9 FM), WHMP (1400 AM and 99.3 FM), WAQY (102 FM), and WMAS (1450 AM and 95 FM). Also, when schools are closed for the day, all classes and school activities are canceled. When we have a delayed start, every effort is made to maintain timely bus service every day. But, when road conditions are poor, or the weather is extremely cold, bus schedules can be disrupted or slowed. We appreciate parents’ understanding and flexibility
