KSO
Some thoughts for the starting school year
Weekly Recap
Students completed their Math NWEA testing this week. They will complete the NWEA science test next week.
The Bright Futures after-school program is off to a great start. They provide snacks and numerous supports for our students. Thank you, Bright Futures.
This week, we will host our second Student Town Hall meeting. These meetings allow us to have more personalized discussions with the students. Many of the topics are student-driven concerns or ideas. Furthermore, we will recognize several students for their positive behavior and monthly perfect attendance. Be on the lookout for pictures in next week's issue of the Community Smore.
Count Day Is Wednesday, October 4th
This Wednesday is the State of Michigan Official Count Day. As with all school days, attendance is critical for student success. Additionally, the State of Michigan allocates funding for Wayne-Westland Schools based on Student Count data. Those dollars provide students with rich educational experiences—more students on Count Day results in more significant funding and more program offerings for our schools. Please have your child in attendance on Wednesday, October 4th.
Tardy Policy Update
Below, I have attached a copy of our updated Tardy Policy. The policy will go into effect on October 9th. Being punctual and prepared for class is an essential lifelong skill.
Mandatory Immunizations For 7th-Grade Students
Attention all Adams Middle School 7th-grade families! Adams Middle School will host an Immunization Clinic on October 13, 2023. Immunization requirements are a State of Michigan mandate.
I've included for you the required paperwork below. Please print, complete, and turn in to their first-hour teacher by October 9, 2023. Please have your child ask their first-hour teacher if you need a paper copy. Unfortunately, students will be excluded from school if they are not immunization-compliant by October 21st.
Upcoming Events
Staffing Information
Our New Band & String Instruments Teacher, Mr. Martinez
My primary goal is to build a network of students, parents, and community members that provides dedicated support for the music program. In fostering a healthy, competitive environment, my goal is for my students to understand that challenging themselves in their practice each day is the most meaningful path for growth, rather than competition with one another. By focusing on looking inward instead of comparing and fostering strong peer connections, I aim to inspire my students to excel and meet rigorous expectations. My goal is for our music program to be recognized throughout the region and the State of Michigan for producing diligent, talented student musicians so that my students can pursue paths in the arts, should they choose. I also want to build a program with a lasting legacy, with alumni who feel strongly about music and the arts and support music in their way after graduation. I want each student in my program to think of him- or herself as a musician and understand his or her potential for success; most of all, I want each student to know that they are valued and that I am committed to supporting them.
Updates and Recognitions
The students were very excited about Mr. Lowe's return this week. Mr. Jenkins will be the substitute teacher for Mr. Jackson again this week.
Mrs. Jill Nichols was recognized as the Wayne-Westland Para Educator of the Year last Monday. What a great and deserving honor!
Ever wonder what teachers do on Professional Development Days?
This past Wednesday, our teachers participated in professional learning focused on small group and student engagement strategies. Implementation of these best practices will reinforce the high quality education each student receives at Adams Middle School. Thank you teachers for your dedication.
Academics, Attendance, & Extra Curriculars
Fall Conferences
The school will use an online app called Calendly to schedule fall Parent-Teacher Conferences.
The link and directions for signing up will be sent to you sometime this week.
AMS Counseling Department
Ms. Lentz and Mrs. Brooks are kicking off a quarterly lunch group geared towards helping 7th and 8th-grade students new to AMS. The group will focus on connecting students with other new students and encouraging them to build a relationship with their school counselor. The first lunch will take place on Friday, October 13th. Invitations are being sent out soon!
In September, Ms. Lentz and Mrs. Brooks did a presentation of services to all our Adams students. They covered various topics including, but not limited to, how to sign up to see their Counselor, how Counselors support each student's academic, social/emotional, and career awareness needs, limits of confidentiality, the Family Resource Center, Care Solace, etc.
Ms. Lentz and Mrs. Brooks have also created a Google Classroom for our students. They frequently post tips for success, avenues of support, and extended learning opportunities. Below is a small snapshot of the guidance they provide the students. Thank you, Mrs. Brooks and Ms. Lentz for going the extra mile.
Tutoring: Our after-school tutoring program has begun! It is every Wednesday and Thursday @ Adams Middle School from 2:45-4:00. Please see the flyer below.
Michigan Girls Future Flight Challenge: Prepare to soar high in WAIAM's second Michigan Girls Future Flight Challenge!
WAIAM's second annual Michigan Girls Future Flight Challenge is a virtual, state-wide aerospace competition for girls in 4th-8th grade with the mission to create a unique, sustainable way of flight to solve a problem of the team's choosing. See the link below!
Attendance Matters: 287 students had zero tardies or absences this week! Our goal next week is 325 students with perfect attendance. Below are this week's Perfect Attendance winners!
Truancy issues are often the result of unforeseen and unavoidable barriers. We are here to partner with you. There are numerous resources available to help support you. Please get in touch with Mr. O'Leary directly if you need help or additional support in getting your child to school (olearyk@wwcsd.net or 419-734-2375).
"When students improve their attendance rates, they improve their academic prospects and chances for graduating."
Mr. Hall's "What Is A Scientist?" Project
Bright Futures
Athletics
Soccer, Volleyball, and Cross Country had competitions this week.
Students who attend after-school events must adhere to our routine end-of-the-day dismissal procedures. Only students with permission from a teacher may remain in the building after 2:55.
If you have any athletic-related questions, please contact Mr. Sanford.