Paola Middle School Newsletter
March 2025
We are in the middle of our novel study, and it has been incredible to see students engage with the text, analyze characters, and make meaningful connections. As we wrap up, students will complete their final reflections and discussions over key themes. At the same time, we are finishing up persuasive writing! Students have been crafting their own arguments, learning how to support their ideas with strong evidence, and honing their writing skills. Get ready for some passionate debates at the dinner table! With testing season just around the corner, we will soon transition into test prep mode. Our focus will be on reviewing key concepts, practicing strategies, and building confidence to ensure every student is set up for success.
Until next time—where there’s a thesis, there’s a way!
March welcomes a journey back to the land of Ancient Greece, where myths mingled with history and gods walked among mortals, a civilization that flourished over 2,000 years ago. Ancient Greece continues to capture people's imaginations today, from its humble beginnings to glorious achievements. One of the most remarkable features of Ancient Greece was its system of government. In a time when kings and emperors ruled many nations, the Greeks pioneered the concept of democracy. This meant that citizens had a say in how their city-states were governed. Athens, one of the most famous city-states, was a shining example of democracy. Every four years, athletes from across the Greek world would gather in Olympia to compete in the Olympic Games. These games were more than just a sporting event; they celebrated physical prowess and dedication to the gods. Events like running, wrestling, and discus throwing brought together competitors and spectators in the spirit of friendly competition. The Greeks were also masters of art and architecture. Like the Parthenon, their temples were marvels of engineering and design, dedicated to their gods and goddesses. Sculptors created lifelike statues of heroes and gods, while painters adorned pottery with everyday life and mythology scenes. The stories of Ancient Greek mythology are legendary. From Zeus, the king of the gods, to heroes like Hercules and Perseus, these tales have been passed down through generations. They explain the origins of the world and the adventures of larger-than-life figures who faced trials and triumphs. Ancient Greece was also a center of learning and philosophy. Thinkers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle pondered the nature of existence and the best way to live a good life. Their ideas continue to influence philosophy and ethics to this day. Although the glory days of Ancient Greece have long passed, its legacy lives on. From the principles of democracy to the timeless beauty of its art and architecture, the impact of Ancient Greece can still be felt in the world today. By studying this remarkable civilization, we can gain insights into our past and perhaps even glimpse the future.
Ms. Husted’s and Mr. Scott’s ELA classes are two-thirds of the way through their unit on the novel, Restart, by Gordon Korman. The story begins with the main character taking a fall from his roof, which causes him to lose his memory. Before we started reading the story, students researched retrograde amnesia - the causes and symptoms. Not only did the research provide practice with informational text reading, but students also reviewed how to cite sources.
The unit is designed to review our 7th-grade state standards in both reading and writing. However, the students have been enjoying the storyline, and participation in class discussions has been exceptional. They seem invested in the characters and look forward to reading how it turns out. The teachers appreciate the students' interest.
7th grade Science has been learning about DNA and genetics. Students enjoy being able to understand why they got brown eyes or curly hair!
8th grade Science has been learning all about force and motion, through the eyes of Sir Isaac Newton. The snow days taught them that there was no force to get out of bed, so even though they have a mass, the acceleration was zero! Force= mass x acceleration (Newton's 2nd Law of Motion! The snow days also helped us realize that an object at rest stays at rest (Newton's 1st Law of Motion).
Just a quick reminder on our school electronic device (includes all devices) policy. If students choose to bring their electronic device we request that the device be turned off during the school day and kept in their school issued locker or backpack. "AWAY for the DAY" is a great way to remember the policy.
WE need your help in protecting the school learning environment! Students need a break from the pressures of social media, as well as the distraction of a phone. Research has shown that social media is a large part of the teen mental health crisis. When a student looks at a text on their phone, they also see notifications for social media which can cause students anxiety, as well as increase the temptation to access it. We also understand that you may need to get a message to your student, our office staff will pass along any messages that are needed to your student. Students are also able to receive and send emails on their Chromebook during the day. This is a great way to send a message as well.
If a student is accessing and using their cell phone during the day, this could result in consequences. It also helps to break down the culture of safety that is part of our foundations. Please help us reinforce the importance of not using their cell phone during school hours.
If you’re feeling stressed or want to practice mindful breathing, try these quick techniques:
1. Box Breathing – Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, exhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds. Repeat.
2. 4-7-8 Breathing – Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8. This helps calm nerves.
3. Extended Exhale – Breathe in through your nose for 4 seconds, then exhale slowly for 6-8 seconds. Helps with stress relief.
4. Belly Breathing – Breathe deeply into your stomach (not just your chest), expanding your belly as you inhale and deflating as you exhale.
5. Humming Breath – Inhale deeply, then hum as you exhale. The vibration soothes the nervous system.
6. Hand on Chest & Belly – Place one hand on your chest and one on your belly. Make sure your belly moves more than your chest while breathing.
7. Sighing Breath – Inhale deeply, then exhale with an audible sigh. This releases tension.
These are all great to do before heading into a stressful situation! Being aware of your breath means you are in the here and now which also means you're sending good signals to your nervous system and brain!
How does the new Open Enrollment statute affect KSHSAA Eligibility?
All current transfer and eligibility policies for KSHSAA are still in place. Open enrollment does not exempt students from transfer rules, and all eligibility requirements remain in place for all KSHSAA member schools.
Meaning: any student who enrolls (without a move) in a new school may not gain eligibility for KSHSAA activities/sports under the current transfer rules. Enrollment does not equal eligibility.
