
IMMS Family Flier
September 8, 2024
A Note from Ms. Thomas and Mr. Jondle
Dear Indian Mound Middle School Students and Families,
We’ve just wrapped up the first week of school, and we are excited to share how wonderful it has been! From the moment students walked through the doors, there has been a buzz of energy and enthusiasm in every classroom and hallway.
Our students are already settling into their routines, getting to know their teachers, and connecting with friends, both new and old. It’s been heartwarming to see their curiosity and eagerness to learn shine through. We’ve had engaging lessons, fun activities, and a lot of positive interaction, setting a strong tone for the year ahead.
Below you will find some of our universal expectations. We have been teaching these expectations to our students and are sharing them with you so you are aware and can continue to be partners with us in ensuring success for your scholar. Additionally, you will find information about our "HUBS/Task Lists" and how to use Infinite Campus to look up grades and missing assignments. We will be scheduling a virtual event for families to assist with these tools. Look for that information in the near future.
Thank you for your continued support in helping make this first week a success. We’re looking forward to an incredible year together!
In Service,
Jamie Thomas, Principal
Brett Jondle, Associate Principal
Important Dates
- September 25 : IMMS Picture Retakes 8:30 - 11:00 am
- September 27 : No School (Staff Development)
- October 7-8: Timber-lee 6th grade field trip
Family Information Regarding Student Learning
IMMS will be hosting a virtual event that will assist families in learning about Infinite Campus and Canvas. We will share the date and time of this virtual event in next week's Family Flier. In the meantime, please take a look below at our "Hubs" (aka Task-List) for each grade level and Related Arts. You can click on the "Hub" to get information on what your scholar is doing in class, assignments, and assessments.
Here are some helpful tips and videos that may be useful:
How to log-in to Infinite Campus (38 second video) or HelpDoc
How to check your scholar’s missing assignments (2 min. video) or HelpDoc
What are Conduct and Effort Scores? (2.5 min. video)
How to check your scholar’s Conduct and Effort Scores (3 min. video) or HelpDoc
IMMS Universal Student Expectations
Eligibility Criteria for Athletics and Clubs
McFarland Schools Equity Collective
MSEC is a collaborative group that meets monthly to offer feedback to the district with the goal of improving equity and fostering positive experiences for all students and families. If you are interested in advocating for the betterment of our school community or learning about important district topics, we invite you to attend our first meeting on September 18th from 6:00 to 7:30 PM at WIS in the Multi-Purpose Room. Everyone is welcome!
To receive more detailed information and join our mailing list, please complete this form.
Check out our calendar of events!
McFarland Youth Hockey Association Try Hockey for Free Event - September 10
McFarland Sparks 4H New Member Meeting - September 12
Free Sale for Families - September 14
McFarland Girls Youth Basketball - Registration open through September 15
McFarland Cub Scouts Space Derby Recruitment Night - September 17
Stoughton Health Safe@Home Program for Grades 4-6 - October 11
Stoughton Health Safe Sitter Program for Grades 6-8 - October 12
School’s Out Days - Lussier Family Heritage Center - October 24-25
Free Triple P Positive Parenting Online Program for WI Families
Stained Glass Art at IMMS
This stained glass tree, located in the entry to the school, is lovingly donated by several Indian Mound Middle School staff members who were recipients of the Herb Kohl Teacher and Administrator Fellowship Award. It represents the deep roots and far reaching branches of our school family. It honors the rich history of the sacred and ancestral land of the Ho-Chunk Nation and its importance today.
At the base, the Yahara River flows, symbolizing the ever-flowing nature of Indian Mound Middle School. As students and staff journey through their years here, they leave behind parts of themselves, becoming integral pieces of our enduring school community.
The leaves of this tree are depicted in a vibrant array of colors, symbolizing the diversity and inclusion that are the heart of our school. Each leaf represents the unique contributions of every individual, celebrating the rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives that strengthen our community.
This dedication is made in honor of the many educators who have devoted their lives to shaping the minds and hearts of students at Indian Mound Middle School. Their legacy, like the branches of this tree, continues to nourish and sustain our school family.
Stained Glass Artisan: Rick Findora
Commissioned by: Jill Runde
Donated by Herb Kohl Fellowship Award Winners: Katie Halverson, Jackie Hickey, Jill Runde, Gary Schneider & Aaron Tarnutzer
Student Services Introductions
(right to left) Fred Bartman, Lyndsay Fecht, Lauren Noriega, Caleb Holzman and Jodie McCoy
Lindsay Fecht, School Psychologist: I am excited to be starting my 2nd year as school psychologist at Indian Mound Middle School, and my 9th year in practice. Some of the things I am involved in are:
Consultation, collaboration, and problem-solving with staff, families, and students
Analyzing school data to support teams in meeting the academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs of students
Assessment and evaluation for special education and 504 services
Assisting in IEP development and revision
Mental health, academic, and behavioral interventions (Tier 3)
Promoting a positive school environment through various school teams and initiatives
For more information about school psychologists, check out NASP
Caleb Holzman, School Counselor: Point of contact for 6th grade families/students. This is my fourth year in education and first year at Indian Mound Middle School! I grew up in eastern Wisconsin and have been in the Madison area for the past 8 years. I am incredibly excited to start working with the class of 2031! Some of the things I am involved in are:
ARRE Time Social/Emotional Curriculum
ACP- Academic & Career Planning
Scheduling and New Student Support
Responsive individual counseling with students
Group Counseling: Social academic instructional groups (SAIG)
Consultation, collaboration, and problem-solving with staff and families
Development of 504 Plans
Creating a positive school environment through various school events and initiatives
Lauren Noriega, School Social Worker: Point of contact for 7th grade students/families. This is my second year with the class of 2030 and I'm so excited to see everyone grow! I grew up in Minnesota and came to Wisconsin for college. Some things that I am involved in at IMMS are:
Responsive individual counseling with students
School wide family/ community engagement
Resource support for students and family
Development of 504 plans
Attendance planning
PBIS and MTSS planning
Group Counseling: Social academic instructional groups (SAIG)
Consultation, collaboration, and problem-solving with staff and families
Creating a positive school environment through various school events and initiatives
Fred Bartman, School Counselor: I will be the point of contact for 8th grade students/families.. I get to work with this group of students for the 3rd year in a row!! I joined IMMS in 2021 and I have worked in education for the past 24 years. I spent 17 years in the Middleton-Cross Plains School District and 3 years in Monona Grove. I've lived in McFarland the since 2010 with my wife and our 2 daughters. Some of the things I work on at IMMS include:
ARRE Time Social/Emotional Curriculum
ACP- Academic & Career Planning
Scheduling and New Student Support
Responsive individual counseling with students
Group Counseling: Social academic instructional groups (SAIG)
Consultation, collaboration, and problem-solving with staff and families
Development of 504 Plans
Creating a positive school environment through various school events and initiatives
Jodie McCoy, Student Services Assistant: This is my second year in the McFarland School District at IMMS, but certainly not my first year working in education. I was previously a 6th grade teacher and even taught Drivers Education for a couple of years. I’m super excited to be back in the district. Some of the things I work on at IMMS include:
School registration, withdrawals, phone/address changes on Infinite Campus
Coordination of our Banner Day/Wacky Olympics, Real World Career Day, and 8th Grade Recognition
Standardized testing (Forward)
Student schedule changes
School Snacks
Each grade level at IMMS has its own designated snack time. If your scholar is in need of a snack during this time due to financial hardship, please reach out to the grade level counselor so that they can make arrangements to provide a daily snack for them.
Grade Level Snack Times & Counselor to Reach Out to for Assistance
6th Grade - 3rd Period (10:15-11:13) contact Caleb Holzman holzmac@mcfsd.org 608-838-4577
7th Grade - 2nd Period (9:45-10:43) contact Lauren Noriega noriegl@mcfsd.org 608-838-4578
8th Grade - 5th Period (12:18-1:16) contact Fred Bartman bartmaf@mcfsd.org 608-838-4642
Snack Donations
We will gladly accept donations of snacks that we can give to students who may not be able to provide their own. We are specifically looking for nut-free, nonperishable, healthy snacks. You can drop off donations at the IMMS Student Services office. Thank you.
FORWARD Exam Results
In the Spring of 2024, students took the Forward Exam which is our state test for ELA and math in grades 3-8 as well as science in grades 4 and 8 and social studies in grades 4, 8 and 10. Results from this assessment will be emailed to families on Tuesday, September 10th along with a cover letter that contains more information. Additional information about the Forward Exam is available online here.
⛺Camp Timberlee
Our 6th grade students will be attending an outdoor education experience at Camp Timber-lee on October 7 and 8. We will be spending one night at Camp Timber-lee! We will leave school on the morning of Monday, October 7th, and return to school in the evening on Tuesday, October 8th.
Health Services
Welcome Back Information
Please review the MSD Health Service welcome back letter for important information regarding medication at school 💊and WI Immunization school requirements 💉
District News
Social Media - #McFarlandStrong
What: McFarland School District wants you to follow our Facebook and Instagram channels. Click on the icons below to follow along!
Why:
Celebrate our #McFarlandStrong students and our staff!
Keep parents, students, alumni, and the community informed about what is happening in our district.
Promote the great things happening with student learning, athletics, activities, and other events.
Build an ongoing conversation about the positive impact our district is making in the lives of our students!
What do I need to do?
If you are on these social media platforms – follow us!
Help promote the accounts to your family and friends - share and like posts!
McFarland School District complies with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act. One of the components of the Act is limited disclosure of student information. Student names will not be included in social media posts as a general rule. In the course of school operations, names and/or images of students may be released to the McFarland School District social media pages for special academic and/or achievement awards, and athletic activities, etc.
🎓McFarland School Board
District Recognition Days
September is...
Attendance Awareness Month
Suicide Prevention Month
Sept. 11 - 9/11 Remembrance Day
- 9/11 Remembrance Day is a time to reflect and honor those who were lost and the heroes who emerged during this tragic event. Let's always remember the strength that comes from unity and compassion.