![page background](https://cdn.smore.com/u/backgrounds/custom_bg-61d89b8e7932e41477fc3955-150ea0f5aad9.jpg)
![Logo](https://cdn.smore.com/u/thumbs/d8ce/thumb-ae4fbe2361fc1940c63b218f2fdcb8f8.jpeg)
West Word
An Update from Perkiomen Valley Middle School West
A Word From Mr. Creeden
We are excited to see everyone TONIGHT at the East/West Ice Skating Event at Spring Mount. The ice skating rink is open so please be safe on the roads as you travel.
It was a short but productive week at West. Despite only being in school for a shorter day on Wednesday and a full day on Thursday we were excited to welcome the therapy dogs back to West on Wednesday. The therapy dogs have been esteemed guests once a month at West as students and staff enjoy the respite they provide from stress, anxiety, and the busyness of the school day. Our 6th grade students took the PVSD climate survey on Wednesday afternoon and our 7th and 8th grade students will take the PVSD climate survey this coming Monday afternoon. To learn more about the PVSD climate survey please see below. Lastly, on Thursday Middle School West hosted over 10 local middle schools for an Inter-County Band Festival rehearsal. Middle School West is the 23/24 host of this annual prestigious event. See more information about the Inter-County Band Festival in the newsletter below.
End of 2nd Marking Period is on Friday January 26th
Quick Snapshot📸
- What's Up @ West
- Preparing For The End Of 2nd Marking Period - Checklist For Parents/Guardians
- PVSD Climate Survey
- Winter Wonderland Dance @ West❄️
- West Talent Show Auditions Are Coming!
- PVSD Mountain Biking Survey
- Attendance Announcement📢
- After School Clubs & Activities @ West
- After School Athletic/Activity Transportation
- West School Store
- Order Your 23/24 Yearbook Early and Save!
- 23/24 PV Middle School Handbook
- Raptor System
- PV West Athletic Update
- West Home & School Information
- PVSD Foundation's 2024 Dodgeball Tournament
- Tween Talk Group
- School Cafe
- Community Education Registration
- Virtual Parent Support Group
- Be Part of the Conversation - Upcoming Programs
- Safe2Say
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
- PV West on Social Media
- Community Bulletin Board
- West Weeks At A Glance
- HAVE A WONDERFUL WEEKEND!
What's Up @ West
Statistical Catapults
In ancient times the catapult was used to hurl objects at the enemy. Students in Mr. Patterson's eighth grade science classes used CAT-100 statistical catapults to conduct an experiment to determine the best combination of tilt, spring tension, draw back distance, ball position, and ball type for "overcoming the enemy." The lab demonstrated the catapult as an example of a lever while giving the students practice using the scientific method.
Inter-County Band Festival
Congratulations to the four current and five former MS West students who were selected and participated in the 68th annual Inter-County Band Festival: Eighth graders Avi White - Flute, Drew Tait - Oboe, Kiana Leconte - Clarinet and Joshua Stebner - Percussion. Also ninth graders Lindsay Hoffman Trumpet, James Shingara - Trombone, Joseph Ferenchick - Euphonium, Robert Ianieri - Trombone, and Ilana Finkelstein - French Horn.
The Inter-County Band is a 105-member concert band composed of the top musicians in grades 7, 8, and 9 from eleven area schools. Participating schools/districts include Methacton, Boyertown, Perkiomen Valley, Phoenixville, Pottsgrove, Pottstown, Owen J. Roberts, Spring-Ford and Upper Perkiomen. Area band directors held the first festival in December of 1957 to give exceptional band students an opportunity to challenge themselves musically and experience the joy of playing with musicians of the highest quality in Berks, Montgomery, and Chester counties. The 68th Festival Concert takes place at 7:00 PM on Saturday, January 27th, 2024 at Perkiomen Valley Middle School West hosted by our very own band director, Dawn Krown!
Front Page News
Extra! Extra! Read all about it! Chances are, if you opened a Sunday morning paper between the years 1787 and 1796, you would have seen a slew of headlines involving the United States. If the newly formed country wasn’t fighting Indians, it was arguing with France—if it wasn’t arguing with France, it was dealing with Spain, etc. Actually, these newspapers were pivotal in obtaining public support for the various campaigns and activities. It is important to remember that the money funding these papers controlled the article's information, and how that information should be presented to the reading public.
Students in Mr. Murphy's eighth grade social studies classes delved into the foreign and domestic issues facing our first U.S. president, George Washington this week. The students were asked to create a front page of one of a variety of newspapers that included articles and pictures that supported their papers’ stances on issues facing our young nation, using their textbook and notes for supporting details.
Preparing For The End Of 2nd Marking Period - Checklist For Parents/Guardians
This coming Friday January 26th will conclude the 2nd Marking Period here at West. The end of a marking period can be stressful for some students as they may have to complete or make-up assignments. To ensure that you as a parent/guardian are fully informed and your child is finishing the marking period on a positive note please see the checklist below.
- Review your child's grades on ParentVUE. For more information on accessing ParentVUE please see the following instructions or log-in information.
- If your child has no grade or a "0" for any assignments, have your child speak to his/her teacher asap to make-up assignments, if able or necessary.
- Review your child's Google Classroom pages with them. Your child can log on to their Google Classroom pages and show you completed assignments. Please note, students may submit a Google Classroom assignment without completing it. If your child received a "0" on an assignment and Google Classroom is indicating that it is submitted, it was submitted without it being complete.
- If you have any additional questions please email your child's teacher or team directly.
PVSD Climate Survey
As a district, we are commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment for students. To gather insights into the perceptions of our PV community, we are conducting a Climate Survey and seek the participation of our families and staff. The survey is confidential, and responses will be aggregated to ensure anonymity. The survey will be open from Tuesday, January 16, to Friday, January 26, 2024. Students in grades 4-12 will also be asked to participate; the survey will be administered in class during school hours with questions tailored to each level (elementary vs. secondary). Preview the 6-12 student survey using the link below.
The input received will be invaluable for assessing various aspects of the school environment, including safety, belonging, bullying, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Candid feedback from participants will inform decisions aimed at enhancing the overall experience for students, staff and parents.
Please email Ryan Creeden at rcreeden@pvsd.org with questions or concerns or if you would like to opt your child out of participating in the survey. Thank you in advance for your support.
Winter Wonderland Dance @ West❄️
The West Winter Wonderland Dance is scheduled for January 26, 2024 from 7:00 - 9:00pm in the PV West Cafeteria. The cost is $10 at the door. Food & Merchandise will be available for purchase at the dance.
We are in need of volunteers to make this a successful event, please consider volunteering using the below sign-up genius. All volunteers must have their clearances on file with the school district. If you have questions about obtaining your clearances please call the MS West main office at 484-977-7210
West Talent Show Auditions Are Coming!
West Talent show auditions are right around the corner! Be part of one of the most memorable events of the year! We are looking for a wide variety of talent to perform in our April show! And winners take home CASH prizes! Join the Google Classroom using the code 2257b5r and complete the permission slip to audition on either January 30th or 31st! It's time to shine! We hope to see you at auditions!
Attendance Announcement📢
It's that time of year again when all the absences start to pile up. Between illness and obligations there is always so much happening this time of year. Please know that we understand how life throws curveballs and sometimes absence communication is not feeling like a top priority. Please know that we are here to help! A quick email to mswattendance@pvsd.org with your student's name and a brief reason for their absence is typically all we need to get that absence excused. Please refer to the PV District Attendance Policy here - PV District Attendance for details. Always feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns as well. Don't forget to fill out trip forms for appropriate absences. Find that form on the PVSD.org website.
Happy Holidays!
Kacie Kaufmann, kkaufmann@pvsd.org
Middle School West Attendance/Counseling Secretary
PVSD Mountain Biking Survey
Mountain biking is not only a thrilling outdoor activity but also a community-driven sport that promotes physical fitness, outdoor exploration, and skill development. Whether you are a student passionate about navigating challenging trails or a parent providing support and guidance, your experiences and opinions contribute to the growth and improvement of the mountain biking community.
Your insights are essential in understanding the perspectives and concerns as PVSD considers launching their own Mountain Biking team. Our proposed team would be co-educational and include grades 6-12. Our season will run from July 1, 2024 -November 1, 2024. If you are interested in your child participating on a mountain bike team please answer the following questions honestly and to the best of your ability.
https://forms.gle/GVE4aHFLjDmehrtM8
Thank you for taking the time to participate in our mountain biking survey for parents.
We are also planning to send a similar survey out to all students in Grades 5-11 on Friday, January 19th. Please see below for the student survey questions.
Also, Please see a short video below on what students like about mountain biking.
In the coming weeks and months there will be more updates and information regarding this PV Mountain Biking Team proposal. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please contact me, Melanie Wolf, Community Education/Curriculum & Instruction Administrative at mwolf@pvsd.org
After School Clubs & Activities @ West
Math Lab
Homework Club
Homework Club will meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2:30pm in our Large Group Instruction room. Homework Club will provide a quiet, comfortable, and supportive setting for students to complete school work and become better organized. Students will receive assistance and support when needed. School resources will also be provided for all students in attendance. There is no sign-up required. If students are attending they can report directly to the Library after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Students attending Homework Club that need to take the 4:00 activity bus must sign up for the activity bus before 10:00am on the day of Homework Club. See below for more information about signing up for the activity bus.
The CAUSE Club
The CAUSE (Connecting And Uniting Students to Empower) is a student leadership group that works collaboratively to educate the larger school community on topics related to diversity, equity, and inclusion as well as to support the individual club members. Students joining The CAUSE Club will meet every other Tuesday to collaborate, plan, create, and help make positive change in our school community. If you are interested in joining The CAUSE Club please email Mrs. Moreno at tmoreno@pvsd.org.
After School Athletic/Activity Transportation
- 4:00pm Departure (outside main office) - Monday through Thursday.
- 5:00pm Departure (outside gym entrance) - Monday through Thursday. The 5:00 activity bus will begin running on Fridays starting after Thanksgiving break.
For each day students intend to take either the 4:00pm or 5:00pm activity bus, they are asked to inform the school district and bus company for routing purposes using the electronic form provided. The form links are below and also available to students via the PV LaunchPad - Classlink. Students must submit their information each morning by 10:00 am if they intend to ride the afternoon activity bus that day.
West School Store
The West School Store is open and ready for all of your school needs. It is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 - 7:40am in the Cafeteria. Students can purchase school supplies such as pencils (regular and mechanical), erasers, highlighters, and whiteboard markers. The store also has earbuds and PV West water bottles. Students can make their purchases in the cafeteria as they arrive in the morning and before they go to homeroom.
Order Your 23/24 Yearbook Early and Save!
23/24 PV Middle School Handbook
- Attendance (pg. 8)
- Educational Trips (pg. 9)
- Dress Code (pg. 13)
- Parent Questions/Concerns (pg. 20)
- Personal Equipment (pg. 20)
- Procedure for Administration of Medications in School (pg. 32)
Raptor System
PV West Athletic Update
Middle School West 8th Grade Girls' Basketball; Head Coach: Alesia Davis
Upcoming Events:
Monday January 22nd - Away vs. Arcola Intermediate School @ 3:30pm
Wednesday January 24th - Away vs. Phoenixville Area Middle School @ 3:30pm
Thursday January 25th - Home vs. Arcola Intermediate School @ 3:30pm
Middle School West 7th Grade Girls' Basketball; Head Coach: Alesia Davis
Upcoming Events:
Monday January 22nd - Away vs. Arcola Intermediate School @ 4:30pm
Wednesday January 24th - Away vs. Phoenixville Area Middle School @ 4:30pm
Thursday January 25th - Home vs. Arcola Intermediate School @ 4:30pm
Middle School West 8th Grade Boys' Basketball Head Coach: Reynone Frederick
Upcoming Events:
Monday January 22nd - Home vs. Arcola Intermediate School @ 3:30pm
Wednesday January 24th - Home vs. Phoenixville Area Middle School @ 3:30pm
Thursday January 25th - Away vs. Arcola Intermediate School @ 3:30pm
Middle School West 7th Grade Boys' Basketball Head Coach: Nagash Cockburn
Upcoming Events:
Monday January 22nd - Home vs. Arcola Intermediate School @ 4:30pm
Wednesday January 24th - Home vs. Phoenixville Area Middle School @ 4:30pm
Thursday January 25th - Away vs. Arcola Intermediate School @ 4:30pm
Middle School Boys' Wrestling Head Coach: Kyle Barnes
Upcoming Events:
Wednesday January 24th - Away vs. Norristown Area Middle School @ 3:30pm
Middle School Girls' Wrestling Head Coach: Mike Moyano
Mike Moyano is the Head Coach for the inaugural season of Girls Wrestling at PV. Coach Moyano has coached boys and girls wrestling for almost 25 years, most recently at Pope John Paul II last year where he grew the program from just 6 athletes to 18. Originally from California, Coach Moyano moved to the area with his wife, Denise, and their two children, Michael and Samantha in 2020. They love their new home and the opportunities to be part of the community. Coach Moyano owns a sports card shop, "What's Hot Cards & Collectibles" in Limerick, and has a passion for all sports, especially the San Francisco Giants. When asked about what brought him to PV, Coach Moyano said, "I came to PV because I'm excited about the opportunity to start a new program and tradition at the school. Wrestling is a sport that teaches lessons that the athletes will carry with them the rest of their lives, and I'm passionate about building a legacy that our student-athletes can be proud of when they graduate."
PVSD Foundation's 2024 Dodgeball Tournament
Join us for our 2024 Dodgeball Tournament on Saturday, March 2nd (rain date: Sunday, March 3rd) at the High School (509 Gravel Pike). The event starts at 12:00 pm, but times will vary based on divisioning.
Registration is open from now until Monday, February 5th. The cost per team is $175 due at the time of registration. There is an option to upgrade the WHOLE team's tee to a dri-fit tee for an additional $25. Please note, the whole team must do either cotton tees or dri-fit tees, we cannot accommodate mix-and-match team tees. See the link below to register.
What you need for registration:
Team Name
Information for 6-10 players on a team (70% must be PV residents):
- Name
- Parent/Guardian Email Address
- School
- Grade
- Shirt Size
Tween Talk Group
Tweens, ages 11 to 13, are invited to chat in a fun, informal atmosphere with Erin McMonagle, a guidance counselor at Perkiomen Valley East Middle School - as part of our Julia’s Joy Youth Empowerment Program. We have created a safe group, where they can come relax, unload and learn they are not alone all while meeting new friends. We believe learning Stress Management tips will help youth deal with the pressures they are feeling at this age and into the future!
This group is free thanks to donations, if you would like to make a donation, it is always appreciated, but not necessary!
Learn more about our workshops and our mission at http://www.JuliasJoy.org
School Cafe
School Cafe is a secure, online system that can be used by parents to make payments to their child’s cafeteria meal accounts, to review student buying history, and to set low-balance alerts. If you already have an account, you may log in to School Cafe using the button below. For more information on how to set up an account, please review the documents below.
Virtual Parent Support Group
Embark Behavioral Health continues to expand our services to meet the growing need to teen and young adult mental health needs throughout our country. With incidents of depression in adolescents up by 216% since 2006 and suicide as the 2nd leading cause of death for our preteen youth, it is our responsibility to act now and act quickly. In partnership with all of you, we can reverse this youth mental health crisis and change the trajectory of the next generation.
Continuing on our mission to be the leader in driving teen and young adult depression, anxiety, and suicide rates from all-time highs to all-time lows, Embark Behavioral Health is proud to offer our FREE Monthly Virtual Multi-family Support Group. This structured group, led by a licensed clinician is open to the public (ages 18+) and assists with the challenges that many loved ones and caregivers face while caring for someone with a behavioral health concern.
Please see the flyer below for more info about Embark Behavioral Health and the free monthly virtual multi-family support group.
Be Part of the Conversation - Upcoming Programs
Be a Part of the Conversation equips families and communities in Pennsylvania with skills and resources to understand substance use, addiction, and related health issues. We provide community programs, foster supportive connections, highlight lived experiences, and challenge stigma.
We are a collaboration of community leaders, clinicians, students, school district representatives, and families who believe that having meaningful, inclusive conversations about substance use and addiction will support individuals and their families in their efforts to develop healthy coping skills and access support whenever there is a need. Learn more about us. See the link below for a number of programs that Be a Part of the Conversation offers.
Safe2Say
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Did you know that the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now known as the 988 Suicide & Crisit Lifeline?
When people call, text, or chat 988, they will be connected to trained counselors that are part of the existing Lifeline network. These trained counselors will listen, understand how their problems are affecting them, provide support, and connect them to resources if necessary.
https://988lifeline.org/current-events/the-lifeline-and-988/
The previous Lifeline phone number (1-800-273-8255) will always remain available to people in emotional distress or suicidal crisis.
PV West on Social Media
We would love to have you join our social media accounts to stay updated on the latest West news and happenings. Please see below on where to find each of our accounts.
Community Bulletin Board
Want to find out what’s going on in the PV Community? Visit here for flyers about upcoming events in and around our area!
To submit an event for posting, please send a PDF version of your flyer to webmaster@pvsd.org for review.
Please note that Community Bulletin Board items may contain links to websites of organizations outside Perkiomen Valley School District. Items are posted to this bulletin board as a free service to the community, and should not be interpreted as being sponsored or endorsed by the district.
West Weeks At A Glance
Tuesday January 23rd - PVSD Policy Committee Meeting @ 6pm in PVHS Library
Thursday January 25th - Chris Ferguson, retired NASA astronaut visiting West from 9:45 - 12:15pm in Auditorium for 6th Grade
Friday January 26th - End of 2nd Marking Period; West Winter Wonderland Dance from 7-9pm in West Cafeteria
Saturday January 27th - Inter-County Band Concert @ 7pm in West Auditorium
Tuesday January 30th & Wednesday January 31st - West Talent Show Auditions from 3-5pm