Community Clipper
Volume 6 Issue 20
December 15, 2024
In this week's newsletter
- Spirit Week (12/16-20)
- Staff Vs. Students Basketball Game
- Upcoming Naro Field Trips
- PTA Event - we need your help
- Students of the Week
- Check out the Amazon List to help
- Check out pics from our music department
- Guidance Information:
- Time to schedule our rising 9th grade students
- Update to Cell Phone Policy
Spirit Week - December 16 - 20
🏀 Staff vs. Students: Round 2! 🏀
Get ready for an epic rematch this Friday as our staff takes on the students in the ultimate basketball showdown! Last time, the staff swept all three games—but can the students bounce back and claim victory this round?
- 🎟 Entry is FREE!
- 🍿 Snacks and drinks will be available for purchase.
Bring your school spirit, your loudest cheers, and see who comes out on top in this high-energy battle.
Who’s got the edge this time—staff or students? 🏆✨ #BlairStrong #GameOn
Enjoy Your Winter Break!
As we wrap up 2024, I want to take a moment to thank our Blair family—students, staff, and families—for making this community so special. Winter break is a perfect time to prioritize the small things: laughter with loved ones, quiet moments to reflect, and opportunities to rest and recharge.
Remember, relationships come first. Take this time to connect with those who matter most, enjoy the little joys, and relax after all your hard work. You’ve earned it!
Wishing you a safe, warm, and joyful winter break. I look forward to seeing everyone refreshed and ready to thrive in the new year!
– Dr. Doyle
Naro Field Trips
Permission slips and money will be collected in the cafeteria during lunch shifts on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday beginning Wednesday, December 4th.
7th Grade: Tuesday, December 17th watching "Scrooged: A Christmas Carol"
6th Grade: Wednesday, December 18th watching "Dr. Seuss' The Grinch"
8th Grade: Thursday, December 19th watching "The Nutcracker and the Four Realms"
Our PTA presents: Cookies and Hot Cocoa
Happy December! It's time to shower our Blair teachers and staff with Holiday Treats. We would "CRUMBLE" without them.
We will serve cookies and hot chocolate from 7:30 am to 8:15 am on December 19, 2024. All donations should be dropped off to the main office from December 9th-December 18th.
Please click the sign-up genius to donate. Alternatively you can make a monetary donation at https://squareup.com/store/blairmspta and we will do the shopping for you! Please note that all items should be individually wrapped candy or treats. Thank you!!
NSU Basketball Game
This week, our students had an amazing time at the Norfolk State University game! From cheering on the Spartans to soaking up the exciting atmosphere, it was a day filled with energy, school pride, and lots of fun. Events like these give our students a chance to connect with the community and experience the excitement of collegiate athletics firsthand. Thanks to NSU for hosting such an unforgettable experience! 💚💛 #SpartanPride #BlairStrong
Students of the Week
At Blair, recognizing our Students of the Week is more than a tradition—it’s a way to celebrate their hard work, achievements, and positive contributions to our school community. These moments of recognition inspire not only the students being honored but also their peers, fostering a culture of excellence and encouragement.
To keep this important tradition going, we rely on your generous support. We need help to provide small tokens of appreciation that make this recognition extra special. You can make a difference by donating through our Amazon Prime Wish List, see link below. Every contribution helps us show our students how much we value their dedication and growth.
Thank you for helping us celebrate our amazing students!
A Standing Ovation for Our Band Concert!
The Blair Band delivered an unforgettable performance at their recent concert, led by our talented band director, Mr. Federico. The students showcased their hard work and musical talent, leaving the audience in awe. With a fantastic turnout and plenty of enthusiasm from families and friends, the evening was a true celebration of the arts.
Thank you to everyone who attended and supported our amazing musicians. Bravo to the students and Mr. Federico for such an incredible performance! 🎶👏 #BlairStrong #BandPride
Virginia School Survey of Climate and Working Conditions
Our school, in partnership with the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services and the Virginia Department of Education, will conduct the Virginia School Survey of Climate and Working Conditions for students in grades 6-8, as well as classroom staff, from January 6 to February 28, 2025.
This anonymous survey measures student support, engagement, discipline, and safety to guide efforts in creating a supportive school environment. Questions cover topics such as school relationships, rules, bullying, mental health, and perceptions of teacher support. Parents can preview survey questions at this link.
Participation is voluntary. To opt-out, email Ms. Cave (mbcave@nps.k12.va.us) or Ms. Chinn (schinn@nps.k12.va.us) by December 20, 2024. Results, available at the end of the school year, help improve school climates across Virginia.
Students will receive the letter on December 9, during their last block class.
It is time to begin our Rising 9th grade scheduling!
We are excited to assist our 8th-grade students with selecting courses for 9th grade! Parent conferences to complete course requests will be held from December 2nd through the end of January.
To schedule a 20-30 minute Zoom or in-person meeting, please email:
- Mrs. Still (for PMHE 8th graders): tstill@nps.k12.va.us
- Mr. Heise (for all other 8th graders): dheise431@nps.k12.va.us
We look forward to partnering with you to ensure a smooth transition to high school!
Scan the QR code below to watch our brief YouTube video, packed with valuable information for our families. Don’t miss out on these important updates!
The deadline for High school specialty applications is this Friday, 12/13/24!!
Any student interested in being considered for a high school specialty program must apply.
Please see this link for information and the online application:
Update to Cell Phone Policy
As we prepare to implement Governor Glenn Youngkin's Executive Order 33—which prohibits the use of cell phones and personal electronic communication devices during school hours (bell-to-bell) in all Virginia public schools starting January 1, 2025—we encourage families and community members to stay informed.
Visit our dedicated webpage at https://www.npsk12.com/ExecutiveOrder33 for the latest updates on how Executive Order 33 impacts NPS. The webpage features a public service announcement and an insightful podcast, that discusses this important initiative and its alignment with our commitment to student success.
he School Board of the City of Norfolk wants your input on the following policy that is on the discussion agendas during the November 6, 2024, (1st reading) work session and December 4, 2024, (2nd reading) work session for a vote at the December 18, 2024, business meeting.
Please review the following policy and share your public comments:
JXXZ. PERSONAL ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION DEVICE/CELL PHONE POLICY:
Important Dates
December
2 - End of Interim 2
5 - Orchestra Concert
***Competition Cheerleading @ NHS - Rescheduled for January 18
11 - Band Concert
13 - School specialty application submission deadline
17 - Chorus Concert
19 - PTA Cookies and Hot Cocoa
20 - Staff vs Students Basketball Game
Dec 23 - Jan 3 - Closed - Winter Break
Sign up here to volunteer
Blair Middle School Information
Website: https://www.npsk12.com/bms
Location: 730 Spotswood Avenue, Norfolk, VA, USA
Phone: 7576282400
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlairMiddleSchool/
Twitter: @BlairClippers
Instagram: @BlairClippers