Straight from Station

• December 25 - January 8: Winter Break
  
• January 9: Classes Resume
• January 15: Martin Luther King Jr. Day - No School
• January 16: PTO General Meeting - 7:00 PM
• January 24: Winter MAP Testing
• January 24: Spelling Bee - 3:15 PM
• January 25: Winter MAP Testing

Dear Parents, Students, and Teachers,

I hope this message finds you in great spirits as we take a moment to reflect on the achievements and successes of the first half of the academic year. It is with immense pride and joy that I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of you for the outstanding efforts and accomplishments that have defined these past months.

Our school community has truly shone brightly, and I am thrilled to witness the collaboration, dedication, and enthusiasm that have characterized this first half of the year. The commitment of our teachers, the hard work of our students, and the unwavering support of our parents have created an environment of learning and growth that is truly commendable.

To our teachers, your passion for education and your tireless efforts in the classroom have not gone unnoticed. Your ability to inspire, guide, and nurture our students is a testament to your dedication to their success. Your innovative teaching methods and commitment to fostering a love of learning have contributed significantly to the positive atmosphere within our school.

Dear students, your hard work and determination have been nothing short of inspiring. You have faced challenges head-on, demonstrated resilience, and shown a hunger for knowledge that is truly commendable. Your achievements, both academically and personally, are a reflection of your commitment to excellence and the pursuit of your dreams.

Last but certainly not least, to our supportive parents, your involvement and partnership in your child's education have been instrumental in their success. Your encouragement, involvement in school activities, and commitment to fostering a positive home environment contribute significantly to the overall well-being of our students.

As we approach the midpoint of the school year, let us celebrate not only the academic accomplishments but also the friendships formed, the personal growth experienced, and the countless moments of joy shared within our school community.

Looking ahead, I am confident that the second half of the year will bring even more opportunities for growth, collaboration, and success. By continuing to work together as a united school community, there is no limit to what we can achieve.

Sincerely,

Chad May

Principal Station Middle School

As we approach Winter Break, we want to remind you about the importance of responsible tech use and home Internet security for your students. As students take their district-issued iPads home for extended breaks, it's important to note that the school district does not monitor or filter student devices at home.

As stated in the One to World Information & Agreements, the District does not filter or restrict internet access on student devices off school grounds. When students use their devices at home, whatever filters the family has established through their home Internet provider take over. If a family has not established home Internet filters, the student can access inappropriate content on their device while at home.

To ensure your student's safety and filter content at home, it's best to work with your Internet provider to set up content restrictions and filters on your home network. Parents can also use the iPad’s Screen Time feature to restrict inappropriate content on the school iPad while not affecting other devices. Information for setting up content restrictions using Screen Time can be found on our One to World Parent Information page.

Instructions for Setting Up Content Restrictions using Screen Time: PDF Video

During Winter Break, please keep the following tips in mind:

• Mentoring behavior is more effective than monitoring. Rather than shutting down or blocking everything your child does on their device, spend time exploring with them and talking to them about what they like to do online. Find opportunities to talk to them about safe, healthy, and responsible digital behavior.

• All screen time is not the same. Encourage creative, productive endeavors and try to limit mindless media consumption. Watching YouTube videos is a lot different than creating digital drawings, photographs, or movies.

• Set clear expectations and put the device away when not in use. Encourage outdoor and offline activities while using online time for creativity, exploring personal interests, and learning.

Thanks for partnering with us in this digital world, and have a wonderful and safe break.

Sincerely,

Ty Gorman

Barrington CUSD 220

Director of Innovation

Upcoming Assessments:

All Station Students will take Winter MAP tests on January 24th and January 25th in the morning.

Measure of Academic Progress (MAP)

MAP tests are state-aligned computerized adaptive assessments that provide useful data and information about student achievement and growth. These untimed assessments are unique in that they adapt to each student’s ability, more accurately measuring what a child knows and needs to learn. In addition, MAP tests measure academic growth over time, independent of grade level or age. MAP test results provide educators with timely information that guides instructional planning and school improvement. The results assist teachers in the following areas:

· Identifying the skills and concepts individual students have learned

· Diagnosing instructional needs

· Helping to identify if academic interventions are warranted

· Guiding the selection of academic interventions

· Monitoring academic growth over time

· Making data-driven decisions at the classroom, school, and district levels

· Assisting with the placement of new students into appropriate instructional programs

Students will be using their iPads for this test. Please make sure they are fully charged and ready to go.

These assessments give us critical information that can help us help your child. Please remember that proper rest and nourishment are vital to students being able to focus and demonstrate their abilities on any academic assessment. Please make every effort to have your child be in attendance on testing days, unless he or she is ill. We thank you for your partnership.

Dear Parents,

The winter holidays provide a special opportunity for your child to read books either to kindle imagination, to benefit personal growth, to enhance academic growth - or all three! As the school librarian, I encourage students to check out books before they leave for break. The magic of books has the power to educate, inspire, and connect us all.

Our digital collection, Sora, can be accessed at any time and includes eBooks, audiobooks, comics, and magazines. Click below to view The Rebecca Caudill Young Readers' Book Award Nominees--one of Illinois' state reading lists for middle schoolers.

2024 Rebecca Caudill Nominees

Happy Holidays,

Amira Shabana

Teacher Librarian

The Station Middle School Drama Department is thrilled to announce that the 2024 spring musical will be WILLY WONKA JR. For more than fifty years, Roald Dahl's tale of the mysterious candy manufacturer has delighted audiences of all ages. The show follows the story of five lucky children that are selected to tour Wonka's factory after winning the infamous golden ticket. You won't want to miss this beloved story as it comes alive through the talent of Station students!

Auditions will take place in January; more information is coming soon!

Just a reminder, there are no after school activities or activity buses on Friday, December 22. Have a wonderful Winter Break.

If you plan to pick up your child up early from school, we ask that you please put in an Absence Request in the Parent Portal on Infinite Campus. When you arrive to pick up your child, please come to the front door with your cell phone. Ms. Jarva or Ms. Alters will buzz you in and you will scan a QR code (located on table near front door) that is linked to a sign-out form that you complete while you wait for your child to come down from class. Please note, only individuals listed on Infinite Campus (IC) will be allowed to pick up your child. If you need assistance with the parent portal, please contact the Infinite Campus Hotline at (847)-842 3580.

Thank you!

Dear Parents,

As cold weather makes its way to our area, I would like to share a reminder of our morning routine at Station Campus. School doors open at 8:25 AM daily. Please note that there is no supervision provided before this time, and with colder temperatures ahead, we want to encourage you to arrive no earlier than that time. As with all matters, we value your help to ensure the safety and well-being of our students.

Sincerely,

Tim Haupt

Website: https://www.barrington220.org/Domain/620
Location: Barrington Middle School Station Campus, 215 Eastern Avenue, Barrington, IL, United States
Phone: 847-756-6400
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Station220/
Twitter: @StationMS220