Bulldog Bulletin

Parent Newsletter

A Note From the Principal

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We are excited to welcome back all of our students to Watkins Middle School for the 2024-2025 school year! We were thrilled to see so many of you at our Bulldog Bash and Express events. Your enthusiasm and support are invaluable as we embark on another fantastic year together.

We understand that the recent changes in transportation have caused some concern, and we want to assure you that the safety of your child is our top priority. To address the increased number of car walkers and riders, we have implemented a new car rider line system, similar to what you may have experienced at the elementary level.

To ensure the safety of our students crossing the street, we will have crossing guards stationed at the entrance of our driveways. Additionally, our car rider line will allow for a maximum of 24 cars at a time, with a right-turn-only policy into the front parking lot. All students, except bus riders, will enter the building through the main entrance.

We kindly request your patience as we refine this system over the first week of school. To streamline the car rider process, we are asking parents to complete a form by clicking the QR code provided. You will receive a temporary hanging tag for your car, with permanent tags to follow. Please display this tag on your rearview mirror when picking up your child. If carpooling, a tag must be presented for each family represented.

We anticipate longer wait times during the initial days as we adjust to this new system. Your cooperation and understanding are greatly appreciated.

We are confident that with your support, we will create a safe and efficient car rider line. We look forward to a wonderful school year filled with academic growth, personal development, and community involvement.

Sincerely,

Andrea Lagard

Principal

Watkins Middle School

Cell Phone/Telecommunication Guidelines

Dear Parents/Guardians,

We want to inform you about Watkins Middle School's cell phone/telecommunication device guidelines. To ensure a focused and productive learning environment for all students, we ask that all cell phones and similar devices be turned off and placed inside backpacks upon entering the school building.

It's important to note that using phones while watching TV often leads to missing important details, requiring rewinding or rewatching. Similarly, students can miss crucial first-time instruction during class if they are distracted by their phones. To maximize learning opportunities, we kindly request your cooperation in ensuring all devices are turned off and stored away during class time.

Students are welcome to use their phones before entering the building and after school. We understand the importance of communication during those times. However, if a student is caught using a phone during the school day, the device will be confiscated and secured in the administrative office. A $15 fee, as outlined in the District's Code of Conduct, must be paid to retrieve the phone.

We understand the importance of staying connected, especially in case of emergencies. Please know that you can always call the school if you need to contact your student. However, to minimize classroom disruptions and maximize learning time, we kindly request that calls be reserved for emergencies only.

We appreciate your support in helping us create a positive learning environment for all students. Please encourage your child to follow these guidelines.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Clear backpacks for sale!

Below is the QR code that you can use to buy backpacks. Use the code WATKINS to receive a 15% discount. All backpacks purchased from here will receive full warranty for this school year.

Dress Code Guidelines

Counselor's Corner

Dear Watkins Middle School Parents/Guardians,

We are excited to announce that Watkins Middle School will be transitioning to a cashless system for the upcoming school year. This means that all purchases on campus will be made electronically, either through a convenient QR code or our online platform, School Cash Online.

We believe this change will streamline transactions, enhance security, and provide greater convenience for our school community. With this new system, you can easily purchase essential items like clear backpacks, Watkins Spirit Gear, and class fees (if applicable) from the comfort of your home.

More information about how to set up your School Cash Online account and utilize the QR code system will be provided in the coming weeks. We appreciate your support as we implement this exciting change.

Sincerely,

Andrea Lagard

Principal

Watkins Middle School