Discovery Middle School

(L-R) Mr. Hunter Reinke-Assistant Principal and 8th Grade Level Principal; Mr. Brandon Larson-Assistant Principal and Activities Director and 6th Grade Level Principal; Mrs. Amy Herrick-Head Principal and 7th Grade Level Principal; Mr. Jacob Kienzle-6-8 Dean of Students

• Memo from Discovery Administration: Cliff Notes, Back to School Bash, Daily Period Schedule, Early-Out Schedule, ND Portrait of A Graduate, Back to School Packets, Eagle Camp and
• FPS Land Acknowledgement Statement
• FPS Philosophies
• Attend to Win: Attendance Reminder
• Does Your Child Ride the Bus?
• Who's Who at Discovery
• Discovery Online School Store
• Athletics and Activities Update from Mr. Larson
• Counseling Corner
• Building a Foundation for Success: Standards Based Instruction and Evidence Based Reporting
• Building a Foundation for Success: What are the Guidelines for Success?
• Building a Foundation for Success: Social Emotional Learning and CASEL Framework
• Nursing Nuggets
• Medication In School
• Immunization Update: Very Important for 7 and 8th graders!
• Fargo Cass Back to School Summer Vaccination Clinic
• SRO Corner with Officer Noll
• Reinke's Realm
• Kienzle's Corner
• Upcoming Events
• August/September Letter Day Calendar
• Online Registration 2024-25
• School Supply List
• Student Picture Day
• Student Picture Pre-Order Information
• Meal Prices 2024-25 Entry to Building - Raptor Visitor Management System Information
• Immunizations/Medications in School

• Back-to-School Vaccine Clinics

• Parent Accommodations/Communications
• Yearbooks
• Liz's Closet
• Dispute Resolution Policy
• FERPA Information
• Rights of Non-custodial Parents

Happy August from the Discovery Administrative Team!

The start of school is quickly approaching and we are excited to greet our new and returning Discovery Middle School Eagles on Wednesday, August 28th (the first day of school). Typically, the August newsletter is fairly long and can be overwhelming. Summer can be incredibly busy, so below are the cliff notes version of what needs to be taken care of prior to school starting.

Please make sure before the first day of school you have the following completed for your child(ren):

Registration:

• Student(s) Are Registered and All Online Documents are Current for the 2024-25 School Year

• Click here to go online to PowerSchool to complete/update student information forms for the 2024-25 school year NOW.

Medical Information (Any Meds/Immunizations Are Current)

• Your student(s) are updated in their immunizations or waiver submitted to the Discovery School Nurse.

• How do I know if my child is up to date on immunizations?

  Click here to see required vaccinations for the State of North Dakota.

Sports Physicals

• 7th and 8th Graders who are playing a fall sport must have their NDHSAA physicals completed and submitted to the Discovery Main Office prior to participation.

Memorize Phone Numbers and Address

• Please have your child memorize their parent/guardian phone number(s) and their address. This may seem trivial, but many students have no idea what their emergency contacts phone numbers are nor their exact address.

Double-Check Your Schedule Online

• We know that students are excited about seeing their schedules. Please remember that scheduling at the middle level can be quite complex and many factors enter into the decision making process, as we have three grade levels and roughly 1,000 students in the building. Teacher recommendation, input from specialists, school counselors and other relevant personnel take much time, effort and care in developing class rosters that result in offering all children a quality educational experience.

  When creating a schedule, the following factors may be considered:

• Course selections such as music, world language, etc.

• The program needs of the child

• Class sizes

• Teacher, counselor, or specialist recommendations

Requests for team switches or class switches are not possible due to the nuances for staffing and the master schedule. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to your child's grade level counselor.

As we begin the new school year, we would like to address the Fargo Public Schools (FPS) Code of Character, Conduct, and Support that will be implemented this school year. It is a district effort to ensure we are fostering a sense of belonging for all students and staff in a physically and psychologically supportive environment. It promotes positive behavior, personal development, and accountability while addressing disciplinary issues with restorative practices. This comprehensive framework is designed to foster a safe, civil, and caring environment that nurtures the development of students.

One of FPS's strategic priorities is to implement equitable district-wide processes that create a sense of belonging for all students and staff in physically and psychologically supportive environments. The Code of Character, Conduct, and Support is a key initiative in achieving this priority by making the implicit, explicit. It is our belief that every student deserves to learn and grow in a space where they feel safe, respected, and valued. The Code affirms every student's right to an education in a supportive environment and emphasizes the importance of positive behavior, social-emotional development, and accountability.

You can find the new Code linked here: https://discovery.fargo.k12.nd.us/about-us/student-handbook

Thursday, August 22nd- Back-to-School Night-Please enter through Door 30 (Main Office Doors).

• 6th Grade - 5:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

• 7th Grade - 5:45 p.m. - 6:15 p.m.

• 7th grade 101 for parents and students - 6:20 - 7:00

• 8th Grade - 6:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

• 8th grade 101 for parents and students - 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Please opt-in to receive text messages from Fargo Public Schools. FPS has switched to a new mass communication system for the 2024-25 school year and you MUST opt-in to receive text messages from FPS. If you do not opt-in, you could miss important information from our school or the District. You can opt-in at any time by texting the word “YES” to 79041.

Our DMS PTA is the very best! Here are the links to sign up.

Facebook Group for PTA: https://bit.ly/4cpH4Tm

Square Page to Join PTA: http://bit.ly/3X1Pj3z

Discovery Daily Period Schedule

The state of North Dakota has determined the following critical skills for all North Dakota graduates. Even though middle school is a pre-cursor to high school, we spend three years as a bridge between our students leaving elementary and preparing for the transition to high school. As educators and families, we want to work together to guide and support our students/children in developing the following skills as North Dakotans...

(Attached below is the ND Portrait of a Graduate from the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction website.)

CRITICAL THINKING A North Dakotan…

• Consistently improves the quality of one’s own thinking by being socially aware, questioning bias and assumptions.

• Applies disciplined thinking that is clear, rational, open-minded.

• Understands the global perspectives while also proposing solutions that are mindful to the impact they may have on the local communities.

EMPATHY A North Dakotan…

• Seeks, understands, and productively responds to the points of view, feelings, and experiences of others.

• Embraces, global, local, and personal responsibility for making the world a better place.

• Understands that addressing societal challenges often requires compromise while promoting understanding of complex issues and varying perspectives.

PERSEVERANCE A North Dakotan…

• Understands the relationship between effort, attitude, and achievement.

• Embraces the idea that failure is a part of success and quickly pivots to keep moving forward.

• Navigates adversity by identifying its source and duration, utilizing strengths and available supports.

• Demonstrates grit, curiosity and positive attitudes while on a life-long quest for knowledge and skills.

COMMUNICATION A North Dakotan…

• Listens to understand before communicating to be understood.

• Articulates thoughts and ideas effectively in a variety of forms and contexts.

• Uses communications for a range of purposes and audiences (e.g. to self-advocate, build positive relationships, resolve conflict, achieve shared goals,) to give and receive feedback.

COLLABORATION A North Dakotan…

• Assumes shared responsibility to utilize strengths to build collective commitment and action.

• Contributes to group effectiveness in pursuit of a shared vision.

• Possesses a team mentality that elicits diverse perspectives and contributions.

ADAPTABILITY A North Dakotan…

• Responds productively and positively to feedback, praise, setbacks, and criticism.

• Understands, negotiates, and balances diverse views and beliefs to reach workable solutions.

• Analyzes conditions to create a plan utilizing self-awareness and self-management to overcome them.

LEARNER'S MINDSET A North Dakotan…

• Embraces a commitment to lifelong learning while approaching their pursuits with passion.

• Possesses the desire to learn, unlearn, and relearn.

We are getting geared up for the 2024-25 school year. This newsletter contains A LOT of information and can be a bit overwhelming but we are hoping it will serve as a resource for you as you prepare your child for back to school at Discovery. We are so excited to get the school year underway!

Back to School Packets

These were sent in the mail the week of August 5th to all of our DMS families. They will the following:

• Parent/Family Letter with Important Upcoming Dates
• Activities Brochure
• Picture Pre-Order Info
  
• Picture Envelope
• Picture Information
• School Supply List
• Backpack Program
• Cycle Calendar
• Early Out Schedule

6th Grade Eagle Camp 2024-25 Information

6th grade students please join us on August 15th from 10:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at Discovery for the annual 6th grade Eagle Camp! The main doors will open at 9:30 for students to come in and get acquainted. Parents and guardians, you are also invited to an informational session titled, "Middle School 101" for all things middle school the same day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Please see this link for more detailed information.

Have you signed up to receive our newsletter or Daily Announcements in the past? Please know, that all emails have been cleared and community members will have to sign up again to receive notifications.

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Fargo Public Schools respectfully acknowledges that we gather on the lands of the Oceti Sakowin (Oh-chéh-tee Sha-koh-wee), who are the Dakota, Lakota, and Nakoda people, and the Anishinaabe (Ah-ni-shin-nah-bay) people of this area.

This information is also available on our

https://www.fargo.k12.nd.us/landacknowledgement website at:

These FPS Philosophies uphold our organizational truths and demonstrate Fargo Public Schools’ commitment to inclusive practices in education and the academic freedom of educators to utilize their expertise and professionalism to reach each student.

Teaming Up to Help Students Succeed in School: Attend to Win!

Did You Know?

• Students who miss 9 days of school each year or less tend to stay on track for graduation

• Missing 10% of school days can negatively affect student performance (that’s just two days a month)

• Absenteeism is a predictor of dropping out of high school

• Good habits start when school starts! So do bad habits: students who miss 2-4 days in August/September go on to miss nearly a full month of school each year

Together, We Can Make a Difference for Your Child!

• Kids listen (even if it looks like they don’t): talk positively about the power of an education to improve your child’s life outcomes: high school graduates earn 38% more on average than those without a diploma

• Set goals, praise progress: kids respond well to goals and learn best through honest and positive feedback

• Stand firm on healthy daily routines: commit to

• homework before devices, and

• the 8-10 hours of sleep per night that your child’s brain needs to self-manage

• Unless they are really sick, send them to school

• Report absences as soon as possible & follow up with teachers for homework and resources should your child be absent

• School avoidance is a real thing: if you suspect your child is avoiding school, talk to your child as gently as possible to find out why. If you need help, reach out to our teachers, counselors, and school administrators

• Stay in the know about your student’s social circle; peer pressure may lead to absenteeism

• Keep track of your child’s attendance; write it down so you both can see if absences are adding up

• You are not alone! Reach out to school staff or other community agencies if you need support: the sooner, the better for helping your child attend to win!

For absences, please call the Attendance Office directly at 701-446-3310, email at dmattendance@fargo.k12.nd.us, or text at 701-446-8378. Please leave a message if the call is not picked up right away.

If you are planning on picking up your student during the school day, please call the Attendance Office as early as possible so that we can get your student a pass and have them ready in the office.

As partners in your child's education and safety, we want to connect with you about an important priority we share - ensuring a positive bus-riding experience for all students.

Riding the bus is a privilege and an opportunity to model good citizenship. Bus safety impacts not just individual students but the whole school community. As such, it depends on our collective commitment to responsibility and respect.

You'll be glad to know that the majority of Discovery students ride the bus responsibly. They understand that the bus is an extension of the classroom, and proper behavior is expected. However, we need your help reinforcing this positive social norm with your child.

Together, we can make the bus a safe and enjoyable part of your child's school day. Our drivers are dedicated professionals who work hard to get students to school and back home again. With your support emphasizing the importance of proper bus conduct, we know we can count on your child's cooperation.

The details that follow align with our Guidelines for Success. Please review them with your student and stress their role in maintaining a positive bus community. By working together, we can ensure all students benefit from safe and orderly transportation.

• Be Respectful:

• Listen to the bus driver (they have the same authority as a teacher and will report violations to the principal)

• Follow all rules (it is an extension of the school)

• Use inside talking voice (no screaming or yelling)

• Talk about appropriate topics

• Be Responsible:

• Keep the bus clean

• Be early/on time to the bus stop each day

• Report any incidents that occur on the bus to the driver

• Do not eat or drink on the bus

• Be Safe:

• Stay seated at all times while on the bus

• Enter & Exit the bus in an orderly line (one at a time)

• Keep your body parts & objects to yourself

• Have a Growth Mindset:

• Riding the bus is a privilege, not a right

• Learn & grow from our mistakes

Our goal is to avoid getting to the point of needing disciplinary action. With your support, we are confident that most students will meet expectations and contribute to a safe, respectful environment.

However, should misbehavior occur, we have procedures focused on learning and growth.

• Verbal Warning: For minor infractions, the bus driver may issue a verbal warning to the student.

• Written Warning: Repeated or more severe misbehavior may result in a written warning, which the school administration will communicate to the student and their parent/guardian.

• Suspension from Bus: If behaviors continue, students may face suspension from riding the bus for a specified period. During this time, transportation will need to be provided by the family.

• Additional Consequences: In severe cases or for repeated offenses, school administration may be involved, and further consequences could be applied.

Principals “loop” with their classes. Students will have the same principal every year that they attend Discovery. Counselors will have the same students each year based on the first letter of their last name.

Administration

Grade 7 - Mrs. Amy Herrick, Principal

Grade 8 - Mr. Hunter Reinke, Assistant Principal

Grade 6 – Mr. Brandon Larson, Assistant Principal/Activities Coordinator

• All Grade Level Support - Mr. Jacob Kienzle, Dean of Students

Counselors

Lead Counselor - Mr. Joe Snowden

6th Grade - Mrs. Bridget McMinn

7th Grade - Mrs. Taylor Ferderer

8th Grade - Mr. Sean Napton

Student Wellness Family Faciltator, Bethany Zimmerman

Student Support Personnel

Mrs. Sue Winkelman, Admin. Assist.

Mrs. Lesley Meyer, Activities Assistant

Mrs. Janna Callahan, Student Services/Registrar

Ms. Morgen Petersen, Attendance

School Resource Officer

Officer Andrea Noll

School Nurse

Mrs. Megan Hasson

Check out the new Discovery Online School Store! There are many different brands, designs, and styles to choose from. This store will be open all year, so save the link. Get 15% off your entire order during the month of August!

Click here for Fall Activities Update

Each month, our counseling department will have a featured column in the parent/family newsletter.

Our counselors are:

Mr. Joe Snowden - Lead Counselor

701.446.3313

Mrs. Bridget McMinn who serves students in 6th Grade

701.446.3312

Mrs. Taylor Ferderer who serves students in 7th Grade

701.446.3318

Mr. Sean Napton who serves students in 8th Grade

701.446.3314

What do our counselors do?

Provide social-emotional, academic and career supports to all students.

This includes:

-Individual and Group Counseling

-Guidance Lessons

-Scheduling

-Transitions

-Collaboration with staff and families

-Advocate for students

What is Standards-Based Instruction (SBI)?

In education, the term standards-based instruction refers to instructional approaches that are aligned to learning standards — i.e., written descriptions of what students are expected to know and be able to do at a specific stage of their education. In other words, standards-based refers to the use of learning standards to guide what gets taught and assessed in schools.

What is Evidence-Based Reporting (EBR)?

Teachers collect a body of evidence for each enduring skill. The mode is then used to determine an overall score in each skill. Final enduring skill scores are then computed in PowerSchool and converted to a grade using the a conversion scale where a 3 and above in ALL SKILLS is an A.

Where is Discovery in this process?

By the end of the 24-25 school year, FPS Middle Schools were fully implementing SBI/EBR. This implementation will continue to move up through 9-12.

Learn more about Standards Based Instruction and Evidence Based Reporting on the FPS Secondary Instructional and Grading Practices Website.

As part of the implementation of PBIS (Postive Behavior Intervention Supports) in Fargo Public Schools, all elementary schools, middle schools and high schools have "Guidelines for Success." The middle schools built upon the elementary model of Be Respectful, Be Responsible, Be Safe and added Have a Growth Mindset.

These guidelines clarify expectations for students and staff and work to positively impact student behavior. The document below are the school-wide expectations and then we have other "Guidelines for Success" in various common areas of the building with the guidelines taylored to those areas. The next time you are at Discovery, try to spot some of these! We have them in the hallways, bathrooms, cafeteria, auditorium, etc.

What is SEL:

"SEL (Social and Emotional learning) is an integral part of education and human development. SEL is the process through which all young people and adults acquire and apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to develop healthy identities, manage emotions and achieve personal and collective goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain supportive relationships, and make responsible and caring decisions."

From CASEL website:Fundamentals of SEL.

The CASEL framework focuses on the following components: Relationships Skills, Social Awareness, Self-Awareness, Self-Management, and Responsible Decision-Making.

This ties in with our Guidelines for Success, for example, the component of Self-Awareness, one of the indicators is: having a growth mindset, which is one of our Guidelines for Success.

Below are a few friendly reminders from me as your school nurse to keep us all safe and healthy this school year.

Office Hours & Getting Ahold of Me

• Monday - Thursday 8:15 AM - 3:15 PM

• Friday 8:15 AM - 2:15 AM

• Office: 701-446-3319

• Email: djhnurse@fargo.k12.nd.us

Medications

• Medication Forms can be found on the Fargo Public School's website and are linked below.

• My nursing office is stocked with a limited list of medications that I am authorized to provide with parental authorization: Tylenol, Ibuprofen, and Tums.

• Parental authorization occurs within PowerSchool.

• If your child requires any medication, including over-the-counter medications, such as allergy medications, cough medicine, cough drops, inhalers, etc. during the school day, our district does require a Prescription and Authorization for Medication Administration. This form must be completed and returned to the nurse annually.

• If your student is found to have any medication on their person, without the authorized prescription/OTC form completed and the Request and Authorization for Student Self-Administration of Medication, school employees will confiscate the medication and parents/guardians will be called.

Prescription or Over the Counter Administration for Medication Administration

Request and Authorization for Student Self-Administration of Medication

Chronic Conditions

• Fargo Public Schools requires Care Plans (Emergency Care Plan - Asthma, Emergency Care Plan - Diabetes, Emergency Care Plan - Seizures, Emergency Care Plan) from the primary care provider to be on file for all our students with diabetic cares and other chronic conditions, such as asthma, seizures, allergies to bees or nuts, etc.

Emergency Care Plan

Emergency Care Plan for Asthma

Emergency Care Plan for Diabetes

Emergency Care Plan for Seizures

• The care plan will govern how a student’s condition will be managed by myself, teachers, and other school staff while your student is at the school.

• If you as the parent/guardian disagree with the care plan provided, you must have your child’s primary care provider submit a new care plan to the school.

• This form must also be completed and returned to the nurse annually.

Cold & Flu Season

• If your child has an elevated temperature, contagious infection, rash or sores, loss of taste or smell, uncontrolled cough, diarrhea, or is vomiting at home, do NOT send your child to school.

• Students should not be given medications (Tylenol, Ibuprofen, etc.) to suppress signs of illness.

• Please do not send a sick child to school to be evaluated by the nurse.

• If a student becomes ill while at school, parents/guardians will be contacted to come and pick up your child. Please refer to: I Need to Stay at Home if Poster.

If you have any questions regarding these or any other health-related topics, please don’t hesitate to call me.

Thank you,

Megan Hasson, RN

Office: 701-446-3319

Email: djhnurse@fargo.k12.nd.us

How do I know if my child is up to date on immunizations?

Click here to see required vaccinations for the State of North Dakota.

If your student should need to take a prescription or non-prescription medication at school, Form AF6720-A must be filled out in it's entirety, signed by you and your doctor, and brought to the nurse. The medication bottle for school must be labeled , including student’s date of birth. If student will self-administer, in the case of an inhaler, please fill out form AF-6720-F. You should be able to get these forms off the FPS website under registration, or at your doctor’s office.

You can reach the nurse @ 701-446-3319 or by email: djhnurse@fargo.k12.nd.us.

Hope you’ve had a wonderful summer!

This is a reminder that every student entering grade 7 is REQUIRED to receive a Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis (Tdap) vaccine and Meningococcal vaccine. To receive optimum disease coverage and ensure school requirements are met prior to entering grade 7, it is recommended your student receive these two vaccinations once they turn 11 years of age. All students in 7th and 8th grade should have one dose of Tdap and Meningococcal recorded on their immunization record before the start of the 2024-25 school year. Please bring a copy of the updated immunization record to the school.

According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, on-time childhood immunizations are essential because they help provide immunity before kids are exposed to potentially life-threatening diseases. As that protection wears off, teens need vaccines to extend protection. Being up-to-date with immunizations is critical in keeping kids and communities safe and healthy. Fargo Cass Public Health will hold back-to-school vaccine clinics on August 7. 14, 21, and 27, from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Fargo Cass Public Health is located at 1240 25th St S, Fargo. These are walk-in clinics, but appointments are welcome during regular immunization clinic hours and can be made by calling the Fargo Cass Public Health Clinic at 701.241.1383. Visit ForAllofUs.com for more information.

Officer Andrea Noll is our school resource officer. Each month, Officer Noll will have a featured column in the parent/family newsletter.

What does Officer Noll do at Discovery?

• Serves as an Informal Counselor

• Law enforcement resource to Staff and Students

• Educates students and staff on law enforcement topics.

As we start another exciting year at Discovery, I am excited to begin my third year as part of this Eagle community. This marks my 21st year as an educator, and I couldn't be happier to help with the growth and development of our students. This journey is special because my family is also part of the Discovery and Davies community, creating a connection to the school's mission.

At the end of each summer, I look forward to witnessing our students' growth in all areas and sharing their summer experiences. It is amazing to see how much they evolve academically and personally as they progress through their educational journey (6th-8th) at Discovery. Their successes and achievements throughout the years prove that our educators and families are dedicated to supporting the students of Discovery.

I am responsible for contributing to the Discovery monthly newsletter. I am excited to focus on topics close to me—Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and the Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS). These areas are important in fostering a nurturing and supportive setting for our students. By engaging in SEL and MTSS, we aim to produce well-rounded individuals equipped to face life's challenges with resilience.

I am excited about the year ahead and look forward to collaborating with all members of the Discovery community to provide the best possible support for our students. Together, we can create an environment where every student feels valued, empowered, and motivated to thrive inside and outside the classroom.

I am thrilled to introduce myself as the new Dean of Students at Discovery Middle School. Starting my career at Discovery, I am delighted to return to a school I hold dear. I am looking forward to an amazing school year, fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for our students. My door is always open, and I am eager to meet each student and parent/guardian.

What does Mr. Kienzle do?

• AM/PM and lunch supervision
• MTSS behavior support
• restorative mediations
• Daily School Announcements
• In School Success Program

August 15

• Student Picture Day - 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. - Gym 2

• 6th Grade Eagle Camp 10:00-12:15
• Middle School 101 for 6th Grade Parents 11:00-12:00
• Co-curricular Activities Meeting for parent/guardian and student - 6:00 p.m.

August 19

• 7th & 8th Grade Volleyball Begins
• 8th Grade Football Begins
• Girls Swimming begins at Davies

August 22

• Student Picture Day - 7:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m. - Gym 2
• Back to School Open House

5:00-5:30 - 6th Grade

5:45-6:15 - 7th Grade

6:20 - 7:00 - 7th Grade 101 for Parents and Students

6:30 -7:00 - 8th Grade

7:00 - 8:00 - 8th Grade 101 for Parents and Students

August 28

• First Day of Classes

September 2

• No School - Labor Day

Please see below for the August/September Letter Day Calendar or check out our Discovery website.

Our bell schedules and calendars are always posted on our Discovery website.

Online registration for the 2024-25 school year continues to be open. All returning Fargo Public Schools families must log in to their Parent PowerSchool account to fill out their family information and complete the registration information for the coming school year PRIOR to when their child(ren) come to have their school picture taken on Thursday, August 17th.

Here are some of registration forms that you will complete online:

• Parent/Guardian Information Form – Enter your name, address, phone number, and email address on our school record form. If you have moved, you must verify that your new address is within the Discovery attendance area by providing a copy of your new lease or utilities bill to our registrar, Janna Callahan. Janna can be reached by phone at 701-446-3311, fax at 701-446-3411 or emailed at callahj@fargo.k12.nd.us .
• Student Information Form
• Yearly Student Health Information Sheet – This information will be shared with our school nurse.
• Parental/Guardian Release Forms – Media Release/Field Trip/Photographic Likeness Permission Form, FERPA, Online Account Permission Form
• Co-Curricular/Athletic Participation Verification – Parent/Guardian-Student Meeting, Concussion Verification Form, HIPAA Medical Release (If your student might participate in drama, music, speech, or a sport, please select “yes” when asked if they are going to participate in a co-curricular activity)

You can also choose to pay your child’s 2024-25 school fees online via credit card using SchoolPay, which is also accessed through your PowerSchool account. You may use SchoolPay at home to take care of the following fees:

• Davies Homecoming Tee-Shirt

• Deposit money in your student’s lunch account
• Pre-purchase a yearbook - $25.00
• Purchase a District Student Activity Pass - $30
• Go to the Non-Profit link on the left side to Join the Discovery PTA - $15
  
• Friends of Discovery
• Discovery Fall Activity Fee

There are kiosks available at Discovery for families that don’t have a computer or access to the internet. Please call in advance for an appointment. If you need help getting logged onto your Parent PowerSchool account or need assistance with the registration papers, please call Discovery’s Main Office at 701-446-3300.

Please click the pdf below for the full 2024-25 School Supply List.

ALL STUDENTS need to be photographed for their Student ID Card, even if they are not ordering a picture packet. There is NO CHARGE for your Student ID Card. Below is a schedule with dates and times by last names. To help prevent long lines, please try to stick to your assigned time.

If you cannot attend picture day, you will be automatically be scheduled for make-up pictures on Tuesday, September 3rd during 1st and 2nd period. Students will receive information the week before regarding their assigned make-up time.

Below is a schedule with dates and times by last names for August 15th and August 22nd. To help prevent long lines, please try to stick to you assigned time, but if that is not possible, you may come anytime between the designated times. You do not need to call ahead.

You can Pre-order picture packets for your student at Scherling.PreOrderPhotos.com
AccessCode: E47KX3 or scanning the code on the picture below.

24-25 MEAL PRICES

Elementary Breakfast $1.65

Elementary Lunch $2.65

Secondary Breakfast $1.85

Secondary Lunch $2.95

Adult Breakfast $2.75

Adult Lunch $4.00

Extra Milk $0.45

A waiver from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) had enabled schools across the nation, including Fargo Public Schools, to provide all students free meals since the COVID-19 pandemic first disrupted K – 12 education in March of 2020.

What does this mean for families? Meals have returned to paid-for status. Families will need to pay full price for student meals or fill out an application to qualify for free or reduced price meals. Applications for the 2024-25 school year will be available starting July 1, 2024. Applications will be available on the Nutrition Services Department website after that date and will be shared at the start of the 2024-25 school year with families.

Fargo Public Schools is pleased to announce that we will begin using the Raptor Visitor Management System in all of our schools to strengthen our program of campus safety for students and staff. Part of keeping students and staff safe is knowing who is in our buildings at all times, and the Raptor system will allow us to do so. The Raptor system will allow us to better screen visitors, contractors, and volunteers in our schools to provide us with a safe environment for our students and staff.

Upon entering the school building, visitors will be asked to present an ID, such as a Driver’s License, which can either be scanned or manually entered into the system. If a parent or guardian for any reason does not have a US government-issued ID, the school staff member can use any form of identification and manually enter the person’s name into the Raptor system. Once entry into the building is approved, Raptor will issue a badge that identifies the visitor, the date, and the purpose of their visit. A visitor’s badge will not be necessary for those who visit our schools simply to drop off an item in the office or pick up paperwork.

A video overview of our pilot and how the system works is available at: https://youtu.be/8qwHwTmp-80

Family support is so important for your child’s success at Discovery. If parents or other family members need accommodations to participate and attend any school function at Discovery, please contact the school office two to three business days prior to the event. Every effort will be made to meet your needs.

Communicating with parents and families is always our goal at Discovery Middle School.

You may subscribe to Discovery’ Newsletter and Daily Announcements on our website by going to “Content E-Alerts” on Discovery’s website. Parents/guardians can sign up to receive alerts about new Daily Announcements, Newsletters, etc., for each school your students attend. E-Alerts are sent to users who have subscribed to a homepage or website section of interest. You will receive an email notification that content has been modified.

You may also want to add our school calendar to your personal calendar. This will help you stay informed about all the activities that are happening at Discovery.

Our school supply list, our student handbook, a link to PowerSchool, PTA information, and several other useful links are also available on our website.

https://www.fargo.k12.nd.us/discovery

Yearbook orders will be taken online .The cost is $25.00. To ensure that your child will receive a yearbook at the end of the year, it must be ordered and paid for in advance. The deadline for ordering a yearbook is Friday, April 4, 2025.

A Discreet, Free Resource for Discovery Students in Need

What: Discovery strives as a team to meet the needs of all students as part of our mission to build a foundation for success. Liz’s Closet, a free resource at Discovery, aligns with this mission by providing students in need with items such as clothing, hygiene products, non-perishable food items, etc.

At Discovery, we hope to provide developmentally appropriate support to students in need by offering a means to obtain basic food and hygiene products in a discreet manner. Students utilizing Liz’s Closet will have access to reusable bags, so items are less visible as students are leaving the building.

Where: Liz’s Closet will be located in Student Services. The room being used as “Liz’s Closet” will be accessible through a trusted adult in the building (teachers, counselors, administrators, paraprofessionals, designated staff).

Who: Any student in need of these items is welcome to take what he/she needs with the help of a trusted adult.

How: Although students are welcome to directly ask a trusted adult at Discovery to use Liz’s Closet, to maintain privacy as best as possible, a student can simply draw a star on a sheet of paper and bring it to a trusted adult. The adult will then instruct the student as to when he/she can go to Student Services to collect what is needed. If this adult does not have a time that works for him/her, the adult will notify the appropriate counselor or Student Services staff member to be expecting this student sometime within the school day. Once in Student Services, the student will be escorted to the closet and can take what is needed.

If you know of anyone who may need to utilize this resource, please do not hesitate to contact a Discovery counselor or administrator. Additionally, if you would like to donate shelf-stable food, school supplies, or hygiene products to Liz’s Closet, please contact Taylor Ferderer (school counselor) at 446-3318.

Dispute Resolution Policy

Federal and state regulations require districts to adopt procedures for receiving and resolving disputes. A complaint may include an investigation by district staff that will result in a determination of findings of facts, conclusions, and reasons for the final decision.

Any individual who believes the Fargo School District has violated the regulations or law governing the federal Title program should submit a detailed, written statement of facts supporting the allegation to:

(Manager of Specific Title program)

Fargo Public Schools

700 7th Street South

Fargo, ND 58103

Fargo Public Schools Title Managers

Title I Part A (Economically Disadvantaged Students)

Tristan Love lovet@fargo.k12.nd.us

Title II Part A (Teacher Training/Recruitment)

Robert Grosz groszr@fargo.k12.nd.us

Missy Eidsness eidsnem@fargo.k12.nd.us

Title III (English Language Acquisition)

Liann Hanson hansonl3@fargo.k12.nd.us

Title IX (Discrimination/Sexual Harassment)

Patricia Cummings cumminp1@fargo.k12.nd.us

Section 504 (Students with Disabilities)

Patricia Cummings cumminp1@fargo.k12.nd.us

Any complaint must include:

• The date;

• The name of the district, unit, or individual the complaint is against;

• The name, address, and telephone number of the person making the complaint;

• A detailed description of the complaint, including specific facts; and

• The signature of the person making the complaint.

When a complaint is filed, the appropriate Fargo Public Schools Title Manager will investigate and issue a written response within sixty (60) calendar days from the date the complaint is received.

Reconsideration

The complainant may submit a reconsideration request in writing to the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction, the North Dakota Division of Juvenile Services, and the U.S. Department of Education.

State Superintendent

North Dakota Department of Public Instruction

600 E. Boulevard Avenue, Dept 201

Bismarck, ND 58505-0440

The Secretary of Education

U.S. Department of Education

555 New Jersey Avenue NW

Washington, D.C. 20208

North Dakota Division of Juvenile Services

100 Railroad Avenue

Bismarck, ND 58501

7/2016

Revised 7/2017

Revised 7/2018

Revised 10/2021

Revised 2/2022

Revised 7/2022

Revised 7/2023

Privacy Rights:

The Fargo Public School District extends official notification of their commitment to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) which afford parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible student”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records.

• The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the District receives a request for access. Parents or eligible student should submit to the school principal (or appropriate school official) a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

• The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate or misleading. Parents or eligible students may ask the school district to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the District decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the district will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or student when notified of the right to a hearing.

• The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the District as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff, persons who sit on the Emergency Threat Response Team, and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the School Board; a person or company with whom the District has contracted to perform a special task such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks including serving on the Emergency Threat Response Team. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. (The District may also disclose “directory” information such as a student’s name, address, telephone number, date of birth, honors and awards. If the parent does not want directory information released, they must contact the school where the student attends within two weeks.)

• The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the district to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. Department of Education,

400 Maryland Avenue S.W.,

Washington, D.C. 20202-4605

Fargo Public Schools - AP 6410

When parents of a student are separated, involved in divorce proceedings or are divorced, the building principal will respect the rights of custodial and noncustodial parents equally except when a court order exists concerning special restrictions. “Special restrictions” means such things as temporary restraining orders preventing or restricting custody, court orders concerning supervised custody and similar orders. It is the responsibility of the parent to provide the school principal with a copy of such a court order concerning special restrictions about students or student information.

Parent rights include access to student records and school mailings, attendance at parent/ teacher conferences and Individual Educational Program (IEP) meetings, and authority to request that a student is released early or are absent from school for a legitimate reason.

It is the responsibility of the noncustodial parent to inform the school office of his/her name, address and phone number if they wish to be consulted regarding their child or wish to be placed on the school’s mailing list.

Adopted 3/27/90

Reviewed 1/15/2003,1/2013

Revised 10/2013

Reviewed 10/2020

Amy Herrick, Principal

Brandon Larson, Assistant Principal/Activities Coordinator

Hunter Reinke, Assistant Principal

Jacob Kienzle, Dean of Students

Website: www.fargo.k12.nd.us/discovery
Location: 1717 40th Avenue South, Fargo, ND, USA
Phone: 701-446-3300