Silver Creek Weekly Newsletter
May 6- May 10
Dear Silver Creek Families
Welcome to another great week of school. We are almost halfway through Quarter 4. Quarter 4 Interims are fast approaching and are scheduled for Wednesday, May 15. As always, we encourage students to continue to keep up the great momentum to finish the school year strong. This is a reminder that Thursday, May 9 is the last day for after school activity buses.
Congratulations to our Husky Drama. A big shout out to the cast and crew of Husky Drama's: The SpongeBob Musical. What a great performance by all of our students! It was funny, entertaining and absolutely well done. Congratulations to all! Thank you to Ms. Alison Gee, Husky Drama director, our staff, and SCMS family volunteers & former students for all of their hard work and support with a great drama production.
The sections marked with an * have been updated with new information OR is a new section in the newsletter. Please make sure to review. As always, thank you for your continued partnership.
Let's make it a great week back, Huskies!
Bell Schedule
*MCAP Testing This Week: May 7-May 10.
We will be administering the MCAP ELA Test to all students on Tuesday, May 7 and Wednesday, May 8, and the MCAP Math Test to all students on Thursday, May 9 and Friday, May 10.
We will have an adjusted bell schedule on these dates to accommodate the required time needed for the assessment- Please see bell schedule below. Students received their testing location via their mcpsmd.net gmail account last week.
In addition, all 8th Grade students will take the MCAP Social Studies assessment on Wednesday, May 15 & Thursday, May 16.
You may Click here for more information on the MCAP assessment.
If you have any questions about testing, please contact Mr. David O'Shell, assistant principal, at David_O'Shell@mcpsmd.org
*Silver Creek News (SCN) News
Did you miss the latest Husky news. You may access the link below from Friday, May 3, 2024 to hear upcoming news & events: https://youtube.com/live/IhOR2X65gMc?feature=share
You may also access the following document for the daily links to the Silver Creek News Show (SCN).
*Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week
In recognition of National Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week, May 6-May 10, we would like to recognize our wonderful Silver Creek teachers & staff for the tremendous work they do for our students daily. I am so grateful to work with such an amazing staff. I am honored to lead a school with such collective commitment towards empathy & excellence.
Please join me in celebrating our wonderful staff as we approach National Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week. Please take a moment to fill out the GOOGLE FORM to share a shout out to a staff member. The message will be sent to the staff member during the week of May 6-May 10.
*Library Media Center News & Updates
The Rollingwood Burial Ground Student Inquiry Group
The Rollingwood Burial Ground Student Inquiry Group has been meeting regularly to research and discuss a newly discovered burial ground for enslaved individuals. They have held thoughtful discussions, and researched topics such as the history of enslavement in Chevy Chase, what life was like for those enslaved, how this community history was erased for so long. Last week, they had the pleasure of meeting with community activists Nadine Chapman and Rachel Peric, and MCPS Supervisor for Social Studies, Ms. Tracy Oliver-Gary.
Our students discussed and brainstormed ways we can all advocate for further learning about this history, and how we can honor those who lived and passed there. Ms. Diskin and Ms. Hill-Gilliard are so proud of our students' work, and the passion, insight, and curiosity they bring to making a difference. Stay tuned for further updates as this project evolves.
*Counseling Department News & Updates
The May Newsletter is now available! This issue is all about testing and preparing for state testing. https://www.smore.com/n/acj65-counseling-connection-may-2024
Great news! The therapy dogs will be here again on Monday, May 20. This is the last time this school year. All students are able to get a pass to visit with the dogs. Just check with your counselor at lunch.
- Some mental health opportunities for students . If you go to the tab reading Middle School Books Articles and More there are youth mental health workshops and Divas and Donuts (a group for girls).
- Information about "Empowering Your Wellbeing: Tools for Young Minds" for middle school students put on by the girl scouts! The flyer can be found on the counseling website.
There are also additional resources. If your family needs help with school supplies, food for the weekend, winter coats or other needs, we would like to help! Please fill out the following form below: https://forms.gle/gdTDMCSSgmU5pVQp9
If you have questions related to registration/enrollment or transcripts, please contact Latonya Abrom at Latonya_N_Abrom@mcpsmd.org
Please note: Transcript requests: Please request transcripts from the main page of the SCMS's website. You can find it under QUICKLINKS on the left hand side. This is the most efficient way to ensure Ms. Abrom, registrar, receives your transcript request. Questions? Call the counseling office at 240-740-2211
*Save the Date: 8th Grade Promotion Ceremony: Friday, June 7
The Silver Creek Middle School (SCMS) Promotion Ceremony will take place on Friday June 7 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at SCMS outside on the bus loop. We are excited to celebrate and promote all 8th grade students during this special ceremony. Space is limited; therefore, each student will receive two (2) promotion tickets for their family. This also includes siblings (ex: one family with two children in 8th grade will get a total of 4 tickets.).
Request Tickets
- You may request up to two (2) additional tickets for your child, if available. Please complete this form to let us know whether you need additional tickets. If there are any additional tickets, these will be given to families through a lottery process. Please complete this form by Friday May 10 so we can plan accordingly. Click HERE to open the form.
Distribution of tickets and yard signs
- We will distribute tickets and yard signs on Wednesday, May 15 from 3:15-5:15 PM & Thursday, May 16 from 5-6:30 PM at the front of the school at Silver Creek. We can only distribute tickets to parents of students; parents cannot pick up tickets for other families.
If you have any questions, please email Ms. Cassandra Jordan, 8th Grade team leader at Cassandra-lee_E_Jordan@mcpsmd.org OR Mr. David O'Shell. Assistant Principal at David_O'Shell@mcpsmd.org.
8th Grade Promotion Volunteers Needed
Volunteers are needed to help prepare for 8th grade promotion:
- Yard sign and ticket distribution (May 15th and May 16th) Please sign up using this link: Sign Up Genius HERE
- Promotion Gift Bag Assembly (May 23rd) Please sign up using this link: Sign Up Genius HERE
Thank you for helping make this day special for all 8th graders!
*Summer School Options for 8th Grade Students at B-CC
B-CC is proud to share with you our summer school program options for this summer. All of our courses will be taught live, in-person at B-CC by a qualified teacher. This year we will only be offering courses for enrichment, and they are all non-credit bearing courses.
If you would like to explore courses for credit, please review MCPS’s Summer school page by clicking here. Information on our Local Summer Program can be found here. We look forward to seeing you at B-CC this summer!
Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM)
Jewish Heritage Month is an annual recognition and celebration of the achievements and contributions of Jews to the fabric of American life and culture throughout our 350-year history in the United States. Held during the month of May, JAHM was first recognized in April 2006 following the passage of resolutions in the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate. Since then, annual proclamations have been issued by presidents, governors, state legislatures, school boards and other governing bodies.
The link below includes numerous resources and ideas for celebrating and learning about the American Jewish community. We encourage you to share the achievements, celebrate the successes and recognize the impact of American Jews on our nation’s past and present. With the rise of antisemitism, Jewish American Heritage Month provides an opportunity to counter hatred with education and historical awareness.
Ways to Celebrate | Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington (jcouncil.org)
Asian and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) Heritage Month
We proudly celebrate Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States and pay tribute to the generations who have enriched and strengthened our nation. The U.S. is home to millions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, representing a diverse array of cultures and traditions and celebrate their contributions. In January, 2021, the White House issued a memorandum condemning and combating racism against Asian American and Pacific Islanders and in March, 2021, announced additional actions to respond to Anti-Asian violence, xenophobia, and bias.
To learn more about Asian and Pacific Islanders Month, please check out the resources available below:
https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/asian-american-pacific-islander-heritage-month
Mental Health Month
Mental Health Month raises awareness of trauma and the impact it can have on the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of children, families, and communities. Mental Health Month was established in 1949 to increase awareness of the importance of mental health and wellness in Americans' lives, and to celebrate recovery from mental illness.
Mental health is essential for a person's overall health. Prevention works, treatment is effective, and people can recover from mental disorders and live full and productive lives.
Don't forget to purchase your SCMS yearbook!
Time is running out. All parents/caregivers interested in purchasing an SCMS yearbook, please go to walsworthyearbooks.com, and click on Buy a Yearbook at the top of the page. Then type in Silver Creek Middle School when the dialog box pops up.
The cost of the yearbook is $35.
Homework Help
Homework Help is available Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 3:10-4:20 in Room 403. The purpose of Homework Help is to provide a quiet space for students to study and complete homework.
*Please note that this is not a tutoring program and therefore there is limited assistance available for students who need assistance with work or attaining concepts. Please contact Mr. Ed Eibel, Homewrok Help sponsor, at edward_e_eibel@mcpsmd.org for more information.
Please note: All after school activities will end on May 9, 2024.
Intramurals: Attention all 6th-8th grade students
Intramural sports are designed to promote participation in sports to all eligible middle school students of all grade levels. There are no try-outs, no paper work and students don’t need much experience to participate. Intramurals take place after school on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and/or Thursdays from 3:05-4:30. Activity buses are available after every intramural session. Sample sports can include: basketball, football, soccer, badminton, tennis, volleyball, cross country, dance, weight training, track and field, kickball, capture the flag, etc.
As new classes come available, your child's PE and Health teacher will make announcements to their classes. It will also be posted on our school’s website and the intramural bulletin board in the PE hallway.
Please note: All after school activities will end on May 9, 2024.
PARENT RESOURCES
Principal Coffee
We are excited to have principal coffees once a month on Fridays from 8:30-9:10 am. The last principal coffee for the school year is scheduled for Friday, May 24, 2024. The topic is TBD.
If you missed the last principal's coffee from April 9, 2024, you may view it below:
Parent Handbook
Please locate the parent handbook on our website. All the information you need is located here for your convenience.
https://sites.google.com/mcpsmd.net/silver-creek-parent-handbook/home
*Latest MCPS Updates from Thursday, May 2
Here are things to know from Thursday, May 2. Read Message
Montgomery County Recreation Summer Camps
Montgomery County Recreation offers a wide variety of exciting summer programs throughout the County with an emphasis on safety, convenience, affordability, and most of all fun. There are a ton of summer programs designed to appeal to a variety of campers.
Please find additional information on how to register located on the website: https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/rec/activitiesandprograms/camps/
Free and Reduced Meals
The application is now open for parents and guardians to complete and submit for assistance with the cost of school meals. Families of students who may qualify for free or reduced-price meals can apply for this service. Eligibility is based on family size and gross income. Beginning this year, students in Maryland who qualify for reduced-price meals will not be charged for breakfast or lunch meals.
*Upcoming Dates to Remember
May 8- Orchestra/Chorus Spring Concert- 7PM
May 9- Band/Jazz Band Spring Concert- 7PM
May 7 & 8- MCAP Testing English/Language Arts
May 9 & 10- MCAP Testing Math
May 14- Election Day- Schools and Offices Closed
May 15- Distribution of promotion tickets and yard signs- 3:15-5:15 PM
May 16- Distribution of promotion tickets & yard signs- 5 -6:30 PM
May 15 &16- 8th Grade MCAP Social Studies Testing
May 27- Memorial Day Holiday- NO School
June 7- 8th Grade Promotion 6PM
June 12- 8th Grade Trip to Six Flags America
June 13- Last Day of School for students- Early Release day
You may view the comprehensive list of important dates HERE
Link to MCPS Calendar
Early Dismissal Reminder
If you need to pick up your child for an early dismissal, please send your child in to school with a note to give to the main office. This will help to facilitate your child being ready in a timely manner and will minimize any potential disruption to instruction. We greatly appreciate your cooperation.
Student Absence
If a student is going to be absent, the parent/guardian is asked to call the attendance line at 240-740-2201 the morning of the absence. In your message, please include the information listed below:
1. Parent/Guardian name
2. Full name of your student (First & Last); student ID#
3. Date(s)of absence
4. Reason for absence
If you have any questions regarding attendance procedures, parents may email a note to Ms. Pamela Carroll-Sykes, attendance secretary, at Pamela_M_Carroll-Sykes@mcpsmd.org
Important Contacts
Silver Creek Middle School
Principal: Dr. Tiffany N. Awkard
Assistant Principal: Mrs. Kimberly Heidler
Assistant Principal: Mr. David O'Shell
School Hours: 7:30 am- 4:00 pm
Main Office: 240-740-2200
Registration & Counseling: 240-740-2211
Attendance Line: 240-740-2201
Website: https://www2.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/silvercreekms/
Location: 3701 Saul Road, Kensington, MD, USA
Phone: 240 740 2200
Twitter: @SCMSDrAwkard