February 16, 2025

Dear Warrior Families,

Welcome to BRAVE Connections! Monday is President’s Day, and students will have the day off from school. I hope you’ve planned some time to relax, enjoy family, and recharge. Whether it’s a fun outing or simply unwinding at home, take this opportunity to make meaningful memories together!

This week’s focus word is Analyze, reminding us that paying attention to patterns in our child’s learning can help us support their growth.

Our quote for the week is, "Without data, you're just another person with an opinion." – W. Edwards Deming.

As you reflect, consider this prompt: What trends do you notice in your child’s schoolwork? Are there subjects they excel in or areas where they struggle? For your action item, take a few minutes to review their recent assignments or grades together. Celebrate their successes and talk about one small goal they can work on this week. Your involvement makes all the difference!

One Sanford...We Are Warriors,

Dr. Coleman

Join me on my #WarriorWalks! Follow me on Instagram: @drcoleman_stemleader (https://instagram.com/drcoleman_stemleader).

The ELA teachers engaged students in an exploration of theme and setting, while also strengthening their vocabulary and writing skills. Support facilitators worked closely with small groups, providing targeted assistance and ensuring every student had the help they needed. Learning stations were alive providing opportunities for discussioon, collaboration, independent thinking and hands-on learning, creating environment where students were actively learning.

At Sanford Middle School, we are committed to fostering globally minded students who understand the interconnectedness of our world. One of the MYP Global Contexts, Globalization and Sustainability, encourages students to explore how local and global actions impact the environment, economy, and societies around the world.

In the Classroom

Through this lens, students examine real-world challenges such as climate change, resource conservation, and economic interdependence. Whether analyzing ancient civilizations' use of natural resources in social studies, exploring renewable energy in science, or discussing ethical consumerism in pre-vet and engineering classes, students gain a deeper understanding of their role in shaping a sustainable future.

How Families Can Engage at Home

Families play a crucial role in reinforcing these concepts beyond the classroom. Here are some ways to integrate Globalization and Sustainability into everyday life:

• Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Encourage your child to be mindful of waste by recycling, composting, or upcycling materials for creative projects.
• Sustainable Shopping: Discuss where household products come from and how choosing locally sourced or eco-friendly options can reduce environmental impact.
• Energy Awareness: Challenge your family to conserve energy by turning off lights, using reusable water bottles, or limiting single-use plastics.
• Global Connections: Explore different cultures by cooking international meals, learning a new language, or discussing global news together.
• Community Involvement: Volunteer for environmental clean-ups, participate in donation drives, or support local sustainability initiatives.

By making small but meaningful changes at home, families can reinforce the lessons students are learning in class, helping them become responsible, globally conscious citizens.

Thank you for partnering with us in developing students who are not only knowledgeable but also caring and principled leaders of tomorrow!

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Marine Biology Students Dive into Hands-On Learning!

Over the past two weeks, our Marine Biology students have had incredible opportunities to bring their learning to life through immersive field experiences in oceanography!

Last Friday, a group of students participated in an overnight adventure at SeaWorld, going behind the scenes with marine keepers to learn about animal care, conservation, and marine science careers. Students had the unforgettable experience of sleeping alongside penguins, sharks, or beluga whales, making memories that will last a lifetime!

Additionally, all students enrolled in second-semester Marine Biology classes participated in an exciting field trip in partnership with the Marine Discovery Center. Through hands-on activities and real-world marine research, students deepened their understanding of ocean ecosystems, sustainability, and conservation efforts.

Connecting to Our Magnet Program: Exploration Leads to Innovation

These field experiences are a perfect example of how our magnet program fosters curiosity, discovery, and innovation. By stepping outside the classroom and engaging in real-world applications of marine science, students explore beyond textbooks—developing critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a passion for environmental stewardship.

At Sanford Middle School, we believe that exploration leads to innovation. These experiences ignite a love for science and inspire students to pursue careers in STEM fields, ensuring they are prepared to be the next generation of scientists, conservationists, and marine biologists.

We are so proud of our students for taking full advantage of these hands-on learning opportunities!

Parents, every decision our students make—big or small—shapes their future. Encourage your child to think before they act, consider consequences, and choose wisely, both in and out of the classroom. A strong support system at home reinforces the importance of responsibility, respect, and resilience. Let’s work together to guide our students toward success, one good choice at a time!.#Connections #WeAreSanford

Join PTSA- It's not too late!

Calling all parents, grandparents, students, and community members! Join SMS PTSA and help fund essential programs, events and resources for students, staff and families. Your membership requires no additional commitment or time but is very important. Support our Warriors and make a difference in our students lives. Membership is just $8. Student members will receive a Fun Pass giving access to skip to the front of the line at the school store, discount to TopGolf Spirit Night and member recognition during the year. Adult members will receive $2 off their spirit wear purchase at Open House. Join at smsptsa.givebacks.com/store

Want to Get Involved?

PTSA has a number of opportunities for families and community members to be involved at SMS. Whether you can give a little time or a lot, want to volunteer on campus, sell concessions at sporting events or help us from home, there is an opportunity for you. For more information on volunteer opportunities or to join a PTSA committee, got to www.linktr.ee/smsptsa

Thank you for your generosity and support. Let’s make a positive impact together!

Every Child. One Voice

It is important for students to bring their badge each day, as it grants them access to buildings and classes. Students were provided with an initial badge and one free replacement at no cost.

Effective January 7, 2025, students who have already used their one-time replacement will need to pay for any additional badge replacements. The cost for secondary schools is $2.00.

This week, the team will work to ensure all students have a working badge or are added to the replacement list. The following payment methods will be accepted:

• Cash/Check: Payments can be made directly to the individual issuing new badges.
• MySchoolBucks (MSB): Parents may also pay online through MySchoolBucks.

If payment cannot be made at the time of badge printing, notification letters will be sent to parents.

Thank you for your cooperation in ensuring all students are equipped with working badges!