Herricks Middle School

The Social Emotional themes for the months of November and December were gratitude and charity. Highlighted in this edition of Herricks Happenings are some of the activities students and staff involved themselves with.

Research supports the fact that student engaged with community service learning do better in school, have an increased sense of self-efficacy, enhance their problem solving skills, build a sense of pride, and value the opportunities to extend their classroom learning.

In November the HMS Student Government coordinated the Boots on the Ground NY - Leaving No Veteran Behind project. The project benefits soldiers currently serving overseas as well as veterans here at home.

Started by veterans, the program is involved in a variety of capacities in supporting our servicemen and women.

Here at HMS our drive was dedicated to the collection of items that would eventually be used in the creation of care packages to be shipped overseas.

Each year Social Studies teacher, Tammy Eng, coordinates with local veterans to come in and share their experiences with our students. This year, Mrs. Eng was able to secure panelists from all branches of the military and who had served during World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, in Bosnia, Desert Storm, and Iraq. Although not associated with the Boots on the Run Program, the visiting veterans remarked that they were appreciative of our efforts towards this program.

Tri-M students were asked to identify what/who they were thankful for, how they could express their gratitude, and, if they wrote a song about appreciation what would it say.

The completed projects are posted in the Music Lobby and have served to motivate others to take a moment to pause and reflect as the header of the display reads, "Gratitude is the music of the heart, when its chords are swept by the breeze of kindness."

During the month of December, Student Government was active in carrying out the month’s Middle School theme of charity, working to set the example that it is better to give than to receive. Their efforts paid off as hundreds of toys and non-perishable foods were been donated by the student body. Daily announcements were made by class representatives who also provided words of encouragement that spread the energy throughout the building and built momentum around the drives. Students also supported these efforts through the various fund-raising events that were held. The week before winter vacation, the food collected was delivered to The Mary Brennan Inn in Hempstead. The toys were distributed to children being treated at Winthrop Children’s Hospital. The Executive Board of Student Government extends a special thank you to everyone who participated in the month’s activities. HMS really helped to brighten the holiday for many people.

Mrs. Sevilla and Ms. Macri's 6th grade ELA classes collected over 500 pairs of new socks for distribution to New Yorkers in need. The initiative was part of programming sponsored by the New York City Coalition for the Homeless. Students embraced the drive and were extremely enthusiastic about spreading warmth and love during the holiday season.

For the 7th year in a row, Herricks Middle School faculty and staff participated in Nassau County Department of Social Services "Adopt a Child Program". This wonderful program allowed 100 children to have their holiday wishes granted through the generosity of the middle school staff. Whether it was a warm winter coat, a digital camera, a doll or a razor scooter, staff members picked a child to "adopt" and got them the present of their choice for the holidays. Each year the middle school looks forward to getting the list and giving back to those who need some extra holiday spirit.

After such wonderful winter concerts the music department organized two assemblies to share their gift of music. Highlighted in the performances were the 8th Grade Chorus, the Jazz Band, Chamber Orchestra and Wind Ensemble. The Community Choir performed for the Herricks Leisure Club and the Sixth Grade Orchestra Students continued the tradition of visiting classrooms playing the holiday classic Frosty the Snowman.

String games are back in vogue. Pictured below are a few of our "experts" who volunteered their time, energy and expertise to teach their classmates after school how to play both solo, and partner games. Science teacher, Dr. Sinacori remarked about how impressed he was with the students precision, coordination and enthusiasm. Fun was had by all.

Wednesday, January 4 - PTA Council/General Membership, 7:30 pm CC

Friday, January 6 - Play Night with SEPTA, 6 pm MS

Monday, January 9 - Ronald McDonald Read-a-thon Assembly Program Kick-off/period 11

Monday, January 9 - MS PTA/General Membership 7:30 pm, MS Library

Monday, January 9 - Friday, January 13 "I Have a Dream Week"

Monday, January 16 - School is Closed in observance of Martin Luther King Day

Tuesday, January 17 - Winter II Sports Begin (Girls' Basketball, Boys' Volleyball, Wrestling)

Wednesday, January 18 - Incoming 9th Grade Orientation at Herricks HS 7 pm

Thursday, January 19 - Board of Education Meets with HS students 6:45 pm HHS

Friday, January 20 - HYC Friday Night Recreation Grades 6, 7, & 8/7-9 pm