Mount Horeb Middle School
Monday, May 20th
Dear Middle School Families,
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We had a positive start to our week at the middle school. Many of our students are settling back in. However, we know many are still in need of additional support. We have also been able to have a little fun over the past week. We held our grade level tug of war competitions, with the championships taking place during our Fun Run Assembly on May 31st. We also started our May Caught Being Good Raffle. Students who are demonstrating expected behaviors have the opportunity to be acknowledged for those positive actions and then place tickets in bins for various prizes. Prizes include athletic equipment, gaming headsets, gift cards and more! Winners will be drawn at our Fun Run Assembly.
We have continued to reiterate to students that if they see or hear something, they need to report it. We are taking all comments seriously- they will not be tolerated even if they are “joking”. We are also asking them to think before they speak. Spreading information that we are uncertain of, will only create additional harm for students, staff, and families.
During lunch we will continue to give the students options so they have additional spaces to eat if they choose. Outdoor recess will be optional as well.
If your child needs any support at school, please do not hesitate to reach out to any member of our student services team. This link provides student services team members contact information as well as details about each member's primary roles and responsibilities. Students can also use the QR code listed below to request student services support.
As always, please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you need anything.
Paul Christiansen, Principal
christiansenpaul@mounthorebschools.org
Catie Goninen, Assistant Principal
Social Support
As a parent or caregiver, you have a powerful opportunity to support your child. When children are impacted by a crisis, access to social supports, including time with supportive family, is a proven intervention to help them recover. Spending time with them to answer their questions and provide comfort and support is the first step.
Below is some guidance to help your child:
How Do I Keep the Conversation Age-Appropriate?
Younger children (Preschool/Early Elementary)
Need brief, simple information.
May need to repeat or use concrete examples.
Upper elementary and early middle school children
May ask more questions.
More likely to question their safety.
May have trouble separating fantasy from reality.
Upper middle and high school students
May have strong and varying opinions about causes of violence.
May share concrete ideas and suggestions for change.
How Can I Help My Child?
Acknowledge your own reactions.
Model self-care and healthy coping.
Maintain healthy sleeping, eating and active routines.
Connect with social support.
Limit media/social media exposure to these events (particularly graphic images)
Remember that children take their cues from adults.
Adult stresses and worries should not be on the shoulders of children.
How Do I Talk About This With My Child(ren)?
Make time to talk, but do not force it.
Look for signs they may want to talk.
Hovering/loitering
Typically, not when just getting home from school-in car, at dinner, doing calming activity (puzzle, drawing).
Let your child(ren)’s question be your guide.
What Should I Say?
Provide clear, direct facts but not graphic or frightening details.
Express empathy about these situations and validate feelings of child(ren).
Provide accurate reassurances about safety.
Validate and Encourage Continued Conversation
Listen
Validate emotions.
Take their concerns seriously (do not minimize).
MISSION: Our mission is to ensure high levels of academic and social/emotional learning for all Mt. Horeb Middle School students and staff.
VISION: The preparation and practices of our middle school reflect our commitment to successfully develop students’ skills for high school.
Mount Horeb Middle School
Email: christiansenpaul@mounthorebschools.org
Website: https://www.mounthorebschools.org/schools/middle/
Location: 900 East Garfield Street, Mount Horeb, WI, USA
Phone: 608.437.7306
Twitter: @christiansenpMH