The Weekly Update #6

I hope everyone had a pleasant day yesterday. For those who celebrate, I wish you a very happy Rosh Hashanah!

I am pleased to share that our 6th and 7th graders now have assigned lockers. Our 8th graders will receive their locker assignments on Friday, October 11th. Additionally, our students enjoyed their first meals in the new cafeteria space this week, and the experience will be even better once the new furniture arrives in a few weeks.

Join us on Wednesday, Oct. 9 at 7:00 pm in the Summit High School Auditorium for a thought-provoking discussion on the hidden influences of technology and other pressures on our youth. John Mopper, a seasoned expert in adolescent psychology, will delve into how today's physical and digital world is subtly shaping the minds of teenagers. He'll explore the unseen pressures, mind control mechanisms, and their profound impact on:

• Mental Health: Understanding the psychological toll of constant digital connectivity
• Academic Performance: How technology affects motivation, focus, and learning
• Social Interactions: The impact of social media on relationships and self-esteem
• He'll also address how these same forces impact parents and provide practical strategies for navigating the complexities of modern parenting.

John Mopper will also deliver a student assembly on Dec. 2 for all middle school students. Attending the parent portion will allow you the opportunity to open dynamic conversations within your family about these important topics.

We kindly request your cooperation in ensuring that students do not bring or be dropped off with large quantities of food, such as crumble cookies, Dunkin' Donuts, Playa Bowls, bagels, etc. While we understand the desire to share treats with friends, these mass food orders can disrupt the orderly operations of our cafeteria. To maintain a safe and efficient lunch environment for all students, we ask that you refrain from sending in such items.

Thank you for your understanding and compliance.

When calling in or emailing about a child's absence in the morning, please email Patricia Frasca, our new attendance secretary. Mercedes Priolo is the new office manager and is no longer overseeing attendance. Ms. Frasca can be reached at pfrasca@summit.k12.nj.us or 908-273-1190 ext 4455.

• Please refer to this district link for an overview of I&RS and MTSS.

• Also, please refer to this district link to find additional information on MTSS including the different tiers including specific resources and supports.

Team Newsletters - September

Thanks to the generosity of SEF, the middle school has access to The Social Institute and its #WinAtSocial program. As part of the school's partnership with The Social Institute, you receive exclusive access to the Social Toolkit, which includes a full library of content specifically for families. All co-created with students and experts around the country.

Platform Playbooks feature expert breakdowns of the most popular apps and platforms and offer tips on how students can use them positively. TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Snapchat, ChatGPT, Fortnite... the list goes on and on!

Family Huddles help you reinforce the important modern-day life skills that your child is learning at school. These topics align with #WinAtSocial Lessons to extend discussion beyond the classroom and encourage students to huddle with their families.

Use your Social Toolkit School Code and activate your free account today.

Activate Your Account or Log In

Our Social Toolkit School Code: 2760D6C62940E9

Questions? Email Nicole Finnegan at nfinnegan@summit.k12.nj.us

Next week, all New Jersey public schools will recognize Week of Respect to promote anti-bullying initiatives. LCJSMS will hold a spirit week to raise awareness for this important topic!

Monday: Team up against bullying and wear your favorite sports team apparel

Tuesday: Put bullying to bed, wear pajamas

Wednesday: Work out conflict- wear workout apparel

Thursday: Wear green to show respect for the environment, school, and community

Friday: LCJSMS is united against bullying- wear Summit apparel

Spirit points will be awarded to the homerooms with the most participation!

10/1 - Student Club Fair- During PE Classes

10/2 - Picture Day

10/3 - No School