![page background](https://cdn.smore.com/_fr/_teacherappreciation4.3be698c9.jpg)
Principal Zeman's Notes
March 15, 2024
Cell Phones/ Social Media
Social Media Tips
I wish I did not have to talk about this. I wish that our students would stay off of TikTok, SnapChat, Facebook, X, and Instagram. We are trying everything we can to keep phones out of the school. All research points to how damaging phones are to teenagers due to the amount of distractions. One of the biggest reasons we banned phones was because of the abilities of social media to really do damaging things to each other anonymously. We have had situations this week where students have started anonymous accounts with the sole purpose of bullying other students or just to be negative on TikTok. These accounts are very damaging and hurtful. It is a helpless feeling fielding calls or meetings about these accounts as there is not much I can do when they happen.
My tips:
I do not run TikTok. I do not influence TikTok and we do not have a relationship with TikTok. I do not have an account. The only social media account I have is X (formerly Twitter). So, when you see something on social media that is offensive or damaging the best step is to report the post to the social media administrator. I have attached a document with tips and how to report posts.
As a parent, I will not allow my sons to have a social media account until they are at least 16. There are discussions in the legislature to ban access to people under 18. The science behind the addictiveness of social media all points to how the developing brains of teenagers are extremely susceptible to addiction.
It is important if your student is on social media to monitor their activity. Ultimately, it is our responsibility as parents to guide them through positive usage and how to navigate through these waters safely.
Cell phones are not allowed in our classrooms. If you can have your student leave it at home, please do. They are a difficult distraction for our teachers to work through.
Your support at home with this is invaluable. Please have conversations with your students about social media and reiterate our three R's (Ready, Responsible, Respectful) to assist you with these conversations. Thanks for your support on this.
Swim Unit Volunteers Needed for Mr. Michalak's Class
Our swimming unit is a privilege that we get here at VandenBerge. Students will be learning basic swim strokes and safety skills. The unit starts 3/11 for Mrs. Sheetz, and on 4/1 for Mr. Michalak's classes. We are still in need of some volunteers. Due to class sizes, we would appreciate any parents who can volunteer to come and help supervise in the pool, even an hour or two would help tremendously. Volunteers walk back and forth on the deck and keep eyes on the students while Mrs Sheetz or Mr. Michalak are teaching, they are not required to swim. Volunteers should wear a comfortable, short-sleeved shirt since it is rather warm in the pool area. A current background check is required to volunteer.
Here is the LINK to see the Volunteer hours still needed!
MARCH 11th-MARCH 22nd - SHEETZ'S PE CLASSES
APRIL 1st- APRIL 12th - MICHALAK'S PE CLASSES
Please email Stacey Sheetz stacey.sheetz@isd728.org if you can help or have any questions. We look forward to hearing from you!
Students of the Week
Tip/ Article of the Week
Upcoming Events
March 19 - Conferences (4-6:30)
March 21 - Spring Band Ensemble Concert (6:30 pm)
March 25-29 - No School, Spring Break
April 4 - End of 3rd quarter
"Munch" Madness
Beginning next Monday 3/18, Student Council will be hosting our annual FOOD DRIVE. This will go from Monday 3/18-Friday 4/4. Donations of cash or non-expired pantry items will be accepted in the Media Center.
Donate for raffle tickets that will go toward a drawing for a fast food gift card (4 winners total-1 per grade, 1 staff). We will also be tracking participants by homeroom, so you can earn more HOUSE POINTS for your Rally!
Gift card prizes will be determined by a bracket "march madness" tournament, with voting occurring each day. Check back here each day for a new chance to vote! See Ms. Kohler, Ms. Southward, or a Student Council Member with questions.
-VMS Student Council
Board Honors VMS Student Leaders in January
VandenBerge Middle School
Corah McCline
Corah’s positive attitude and inclusivity towards all of our students at VMS assist in all of our students being ready, responsible, and respectful. Corah is a key student in our Where Everyone Belongs (WEB) program where she mentors our 6th grade students during our 6th grade WEB days as well as continues throughout the school year. She is also a member of our VMS honor society. Corah was the youngest varsity goal scorer in Elk River Girls Varsity Lacrosse history last spring. We are proud of all that Corah has accomplished here at VandenBerge and are excited for her future as an Elk at ERHS.
Eli Lerberg
One of Eli’s teachers described Eli best, “Eli is an excellent choice! He has really come to school to attack the day all year! I am very proud of the effort he has put in this year.” Eli is a trusted office runner and WEB leader. He embodies what a VMS student should be as he is ready, responsible, and respectful to all staff and students. One of Eli’s greatest strengths is making everyone feel welcome and included. Eli is involved in youth hockey as well as playing golf in the spring. He is a consistent member of the A honor roll. We are proud to call Eli our student and excited for his future as an Elk at ERHS.