MMS Update 9-23-24

Middle schoolers need a variety of ways to navigate and organize the information at their literal fingertips. Many students in this age group rely on videos and images to get information. They need good critical thinking skills to find out whether something is true or makes actual sense. Reading helps develop these skills and more.

Reading increases thinking skills. It helps the mind grasp abstract concepts. Middle schoolers are still learning decision-making skills. Reading can help middle schoolers understand cause and effect, which is very important.

#1 Reading Enhances Language and Communication Skills

Your vocabulary and grammar comprehension develop along with what you read. The more you read, the better reader you become, the more varied your language becomes. Practice does indeed make improvements.

#2 Reading Develops Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

Through reading, students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They learn via character and plot development and through their own thought processes during reading. Teaching students to not only evaluate the text but to monitor what they are thinking about the text is invaluable.

#3 Reading Expands Knowledge and Cultural Awareness

American Poet Emily Dickinson said “There is no Frigate like a Book To take us Lands away.” Reading allows us to traverse the length and breadth of our world. Engaging middle schoolers in reading expands their knowledge and cultural awareness. It introduces them to different cultures and historical events that they might not have been exposed to yet.

#4 Reading Boosts Imagination and Creativity

Just as mental travel broadens our horizons, reading boosts our imagination and creativity. Reading stimulates the imagination through abstract representation, such as visualization. Although not everyone visualizes the same way, we all form some abstract representation of what we read in our minds.

#5 Reading Promotes Emotional Intelligence and Empathy

Thoughtful reading helps develop empathy and emotional intelligence. Engaging with diverse characters allows readers to experience their joys, sorrows, and challenges. Readers learn to identify and empathize with a wide range of emotions, expanding their capacity to connect with others in real life.

The Kalamazoo Public Schools Transportation Department and Milwood Magnet School are working to keep students safe each morning. We were having difficulties with cars speeding through the bus loading zone, students walking in between busses and cars cutting off school busses as they enter and depart each day.

Please note the three designated droop-off locations highlighted in yellow:

1. Konkle Street Circle (Konkle Street)

2. West Parking Lot Sidewalk, Near Basketball Courts (Sheridan Dr. Entrance)

3. Cambridge Dr. and Balkema Dr. (Outside Gate)

Please review the new morning drop-off map for a safer alternative to morning arrival.

*At dismissal busses will load at their normal location.

• Students have 4 minutes to transition from one class to another. They must be on time for each of their classes. They should be in their seats ready to learn when the bell rings.

• 1. No Cell phones/headphones/earbuds/ Air pods

  2. No Hats or Hoods on heads

  3. No Backpacks/winter coats

  4. No sunglasses/bandanas

  5. No Food/drinks (other than water in clear water bottles) in classrooms

• Parents, remember to use PowerSchool to monitor your child's grades and attendance. It is important for all students to arrive to school and class on time every day.

• If you or your child becomes aware of a situation that may create a problem at school, please contact an administrator at the school (269-337-0670). We want to be proactive and maintain the best possible learning environment for our students.

Academic Achievement, Safety and Order are Milwood Magnet School Priorities!

*Volleyball Schedule Change 9-24-24: (7th grade @ K. Christian) (8th grade @ Milwood)

PowerSchool Parent Portal is an online resource that gives parents/guardians access to their student’s:

• Grades and attendance
• Test results
• Report Cards
• Attendance history
• Email notifications that can include your child's grades and school announcements
• Teacher comments
• Calendars

How do I access the PowerSchool Parent Portal?

Click this link.

Parents, remember to use PowerSchool to monitor your child's grades and attendance. If you have any questions or concerns please give us a call at 269-337-0670.

It is important for all students to arrive to school and class on time every day. Remind students to bring their charged Chromebook every day.

We are committed to ensuring that the students are provided with a safe and orderly academic environment, where learning is the primary focus of our students.

Principal, William Hawkins - Hawkinswm@kalamazoopublicschools.net

Assistant Principal, Aaron Sauter –Sauteram@kalamazoopublicschools.net

Counselor, Joshua Kruger - Krugerja@kalamazoopublicschools.net

Counselor, Rashonda Wiggins - Wigginsrl@kalamazoopublicschools.net