Message from Principal Kuhnert
Black History Month
As we embrace the significance of Black History Month, we are thrilled to shine a spotlight on the profound impact of the arts within the Black community. This February, we invite you to join us in celebrating the creativity, resilience, and cultural contributions of Black artists who have left an indelible mark on the world.
1. Exploring the Vibrancy of African American Art: Encourage your child to delve into the vibrant world of African American art. From the Harlem Renaissance to contemporary artists, there is a rich tapestry waiting to be explored. Consider exploring local galleries, virtual exhibits, or even engaging in creative projects inspired by renowned Black artists.
2. Musical Mastery: From jazz and blues to hip-hop and R&B, the world has been enriched by the musical genius of Black artists. Encourage your child to explore the diverse sounds that have shaped and defined generations. Perhaps they could create a playlist that showcases the evolution of Black music or even try their hand at composing their own piece.
3. Literary Legacies: Introduce your child to the literary brilliance of Black authors and poets. Dive into the works of Langston Hughes, Maya Angelou, James Baldwin, and others. Consider a family reading night or a creative writing project inspired by the powerful narratives that have emerged from the Black literary tradition.
4. Theatrical Talents: Explore the world of Black theater and drama. From classic plays to contemporary productions, there is a wealth of material to discover. Your child might enjoy staging their own mini-production or participating in discussions about the impact of Black playwrights and actors on the theatrical landscape.
5. Visual Arts Exploration: Encourage your child to express themselves through visual arts. Whether it's drawing, painting, or other forms of artistic expression, exploring the diverse styles and themes in Black art can be both educational and inspiring.
This Black History Month, let's celebrate the arts as a powerful means of expressing culture, history, and identity. Together, let's nurture an appreciation for the creative contributions that continue to shape our world.
Thank you for your ongoing support in fostering a culturally rich and inclusive learning environment.
Mitch Kuhnert, principal
David Perrigo, assistant principal
School Committees
This Friday, February 23rd we are inviting students to be a catalyst for positive change by joining our Stilwell Student Equity Team, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive culture within our junior high school. This unique opportunity allows students to actively contribute to shaping an environment that values diversity, promotes equality, and embraces the richness of individual experiences. Through open dialogue, collaborative initiatives, and a commitment to understanding, this group aims to amplify student voices and work towards creating a school culture where every individual feels heard, respected, and empowered. Join us in building a community that reflects the principles of equity and unity. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the culture of our school.
PBIS-
The Stilwell PBIS store is looking for donations to help keep our store up and running! The PBIS store is a place where students spend their PBIS points that they earn for good behavior on fun school supplies, snacks and WDM apparel. Please check out our Amazon wish list if you are interested in helping out! Thank you. https://a.co/epEwzWK
Tier 1-
Spring School is around the corner and we will be identifying students after the first semester is completed on January 12, 2024.
Student and Staff Wellness-
The committee discussed how to continue to improve staff and student relationships and a place of belonging. We continued to create and discuss lessons for the SEL learning on Wednesday Tiger Times. We managed and adjusted our SEL lessons for student learning and enriched conversations around topics like managing stress and anxiety.
School Highlights
Student Anouncements:
Parents if you want to see our daily anouncements you can save this link:
PTO Meetings
Parents if you have missed any of our PTO meetings here are the links to the video recordings. We still are looking for a PTO President for next year so I am looking at you 7th-grade parents. Who can I get to step forward?
1/22/2024- Link
12/5/2023 - Link
Next meeting will be March 5, 2024
8th Grade Parents:
Rebecca McMahon is currently the PTO co-president for VSW/VHS. We are looking for a Stilwell 8th-grade parent to help next year as the VSW Co-president. Please contact her directly if interested. They have one from Indian Hills and one from Stilwell. Email: mcmahon317@gmail.com if interested.
Important Dates
Parent Survey's:
Hello. Recent legislation now requires parent/guardians to give permission for some student surveys. We MUST get your permission ASAP for your [School] student to participate in a district survey starting this month.
On home page, find “Documents Need Attention”
Click on link(s) to review survey information and approve or decline.
This is a NEW requirement by law. View a short video tutorial.
Thank you for your help.
Mitchell Kuhnert
Familia Stilwell: La nueva ley requiere su permiso para algunas encuestas. Ver correo electrónico. Necesitamos tu ayuda.
ACTIVITIES
Monday, February 19, 2024
4:30pm Stilwell 8th Boys Baskeball vs Ankeny Centennial Northview @ Stilwell JH
Thursday, February 22, 2024
4:30 pm Boys Basketball vs Johnston @ Johnston Middle School
Spring Track will start after Spring Break and 8th grade students can sign up with the QR code in the gym during PE.