The FMS Family Newsletter #2
September 23rd, 2024
iPad Policy
Dear Students and Families,
To ensure that all iPads are charged and ready for learning, we have updated our iPad policy. This year, iPads will remain at school each day and must be left in the student's 7th-period classroom for overnight charging. Students will pick up their iPads before their first-hour class the following day.
This year, iPads will remain at school each day and must be left in the student's 7th-period classroom for overnight charging. Students will pick up their iPads before their first-hour class the following day.This policy has significantly helped reduce iPad damage by keeping devices safely stored and managed at school.
If additional time is needed for a specific subject or if a student will be out of school for an extended period, iPads may be taken home with written permission from the teacher.
Thank you for your cooperation in helping us keep iPads ready for use each school day and in great condition.
Faribault Falcons Homecoming
We are excited to announce that Homecoming Week is just around the corner, running from Monday, September 30 to Friday, October 4!
This is always a fun and spirited time for our students, and we have a variety of activities planned at FMS to celebrate. Throughout the week, students can participate in dress-up days, enjoy games, and take part in our pep fest to show their Falcon pride.
On Friday, October 4, students will be released early at 12:37 PM so they can join in the excitement of the high school Homecoming Parade. The week will conclude with the big football game at Bruce Smith Stadium, which kicks off at 7:00 PM.
We encourage everyone to come out and support the Falcons!
We’re looking forward to a fantastic week full of fun and school spirit!
Go Falcons!
New Policy
Students in both Elementary and Middle School must be accompanied by a chaperone to all FHS home events. Students that do not have an adult accompanying them will not be allowed entrance into FHS events.
PGC
We are excited to introduce Peer Group Connections (PGC), a valuable program here at FMS. PGC is designed to support the social and emotional development of our middle school students by pairing our 6th grade students with trained 8th-grade peer leaders. These peer leaders serve as role models and mentors, leading weekly group sessions that focus on building positive relationships, improving communication skills, and fostering a supportive school community.
The goal of PGC is to help students navigate the challenges of middle school, build confidence, and create a sense of belonging. With peer mentors guiding them, students have the opportunity to connect, share experiences, and grow together.
We are proud of the impact PGC has on our students and are excited to continue this meaningful program.
FMS Athletics
Mark your Calendars!
Mark your calendars! This required performance for 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students will take place the evening of November 12th, and it will be a chance for them to show off all they have learned during the first few months of school! More details will be sent home in October regarding this performance.
Yearbook Contest
FMS Grading Policy
Faribault Middle School has had a similar grading policy with Faribault High School for many years. However, we want to be able to meet the needs of our unique group of kids. Because of this we are exploring various grading practices to determine what has the greatest benefit for our student achievement and prepares them for high school and beyond.
The first is the "status quo". This is the grading option we have been practicing for the last few years and is outlined in the student handbook.
Our next option is changing the grading option to a 100 point scale. This is a more traditional option in which 0-59% is an F. However, with this option, the expectation is teachers reach out to you via Parent Square or email when your child receives a failing grade, particularly on assessments.
Our final option is a "competency" based grades. Similar to what is used in elementary, these grades measure student achievement of the class standards. With this, students must demonstrate their knowledge and skills with artifacts and/or assessment.
Teachers have been asked to decide which grading option they will use by October 11. If you have questions or feedback, please share! I am very interested in your input on your child's learning needs.
Your partner in education,
Reminders and Home Support
Be Kind
We have noticed an increase in unkind behavior among some of our middle school students. As a school community, we are committed to creating a supportive and respectful environment for all students, but we need your help.
Please take some time at home to discuss the importance of kindness, empathy, and treating others with respect. Your guidance can make a big difference in reinforcing these values and helping us create a positive atmosphere at school.
Thank you for your continued support in helping our students grow into caring and compassionate individuals
No Phones at FMS
Phones are away for the day, bell to bell. Phones have and will be taken for the day if students do not keep them in their backpack or on their person.
It's important to be On Time
We have many students who are not reporting to class, or just wandering the halls. Please help us by reinforcing the importance of going to class. If a student is marked absent, you will receive a notification. If you are concerned about your student's attendance, please contact us so we can set up a meeting.
Faribault Middle School Celebrates Educator Excellence: U of M’s Generous Donation Highlights Andrea Moyer’s Dedication to Education
Andrea Moyer’s 8th-grade AVID class had the unique opportunity to hear from Jordan, a student-athlete at the University of Minnesota (U of M). Jordan, who was once a participant in the AVID program during his middle and high school years, shared valuable insights about academics, athletics, and the expectations of students. He highlighted how the AVID program can be instrumental in preparing students for their future endeavors.
The day's excitement continued as the U of M staff made a surprise presentation to Mrs. Moyer, awarding her a generous financial donation for her classroom. A University of Minnesota representative commented, “We have selected Andrea Moyer because of her dedication to the AVID program and her commitment to creating memorable experiences for her students. It has been a pleasure partnering with Andrea in these efforts.”
The surprises didn’t end there. In addition to honoring Mrs. Moyer, the U of M also made a second donation to FMS Principal Stacy Fox for use within the school building.
Today’s events were a testament to the exceptional work being done at Faribault Middle School. What a fantastic day for both educators and students!
Mega Jump Motivational Experience
About Our Show:
Our Number 1 Goal is to profoundly reach every audience on an emotional and mental level with an Energetic, Jaw Dropping, Influential and Inspirational narrative that will change lives and kickstart motivation for a lifetime… Just like the BMX Show that changed our lives 20 years ago… Our choices since then have led us to become well spoken, career oriented, hobby enthusiasts who continue to follow their dreams of being professional athletes while also pursuing real world careers. Today, our founder is a college instructor who looks forward to speaking with you about how our team and performances fit in best with your event.
Get Involved!
Contact Mr. Prichard today and be part of our great after school programming.
Our Busy Classrooms! 💥
We got this!👏
Oh, now I get it!👍
Thank you for your support! 🫶
Working the Problem 🧐
Wait, you want us to do what? 😂
Upcoming Dates that are Important...
9/28 - Choir performs the national anthem at the Twins game
9/30 - 10/4 HOMECOMING WEEK 💚🖤💚🖤💚🖤
10/1 - Vaccination clinic at FHS 2:30 - 6:30
10/3 - FHS tour of the schools at 1:15
10/4 - Early release: Homecoming Parade (more information to come)
10/15 - Picture retake day
10/16- No School: Falcon Learning Day
10/17-18 - No School: Fall break 🍁🍂
10/24 - Vaccination Clinic at Roosevelt 2:30 - 6:30