BRAVE Connections

September 30, 2024

Dear Warrior Families,

Welcome to this week’s newsletter and our series on "Literacy in Core Content Instruction: How Literacy is Everywhere" which highlights how literacy skills are integrated into all subjects, from math to science, and beyond.

This week we feature Literacy in Mathematics: Literacy plays a crucial role in math, as students must understand complex word problems, follow multi-step instructions, and clearly explain their reasoning. By developing strong literacy skills in math, students enhance their ability to tackle challenging problems and think critically—skills that will benefit them not only in academics but also in everyday life.

Here’s a simple at-home activity to help support your child’s math and literacy skills. Choose a word problem from their homework or find one online that’s suitable for their grade level. Read the problem out loud together to help them understand the structure and clarify any unfamiliar terms. Break the problem into smaller parts by discussing what it’s asking, the information provided, and the steps needed to solve it. Encourage your child to highlight key numbers and phrases to reinforce comprehension. Once the problem is solved, ask them to explain their thought process both verbally and in writing. Finally, reflect on any confusing words or steps, and how breaking it down made the problem easier to solve.

For a more rigorous option, challenge your child to create their own multi-step word problem. Have them include real-life contexts, such as calculating a budget or planning a trip, where multiple mathematical operations are needed. Once they create the problem, swap roles and try solving it together. This activity not only builds literacy skills but also deepens their understanding of how math applies to everyday situations, fostering both critical thinking and creativity.

Both activities help build confidence, enhance problem-solving, and prepare students for future academic challenges!

Stay tuned for next week’s focus on Literacy in Science

"We are proud of our Warriors for Thinking Critically."

Make it a Great Week!

Dr. Coleman

Throughout the month, we recognize the influence of Hispanic Americans in areas like art, science, politics, and beyond, celebrating their rich cultural legacy and the positive impact they've made on our society.

Spotlight: Hispanic Contributions to Art
The works of artists like Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo have left an indelible mark on the world of art, blending Mexican culture with themes of social justice and personal identity. Today, contemporary Hispanic artists such as Carmen Herrera and Jean-Michel Basquiat continue to influence the art scene globally with their powerful expressions of culture, identity, and activism.

IB Learner Profile

Students who embody the trait of *Caring* genuinely want those around them to be happy and are mindful of their needs. They consider the world around them and actively work to support their community and protect the environment. They practice the golden rule, treating others the way they wish to be treated. How can parents foster this quality of Caring at home?

• Be a role model for the caring behavior you want to see in your child. Children are always watching and listening, absorbing everything you do. Using kind words, offering help without being asked, and being a good listener all demonstrate care for others. Even small actions, like holding the door for someone, show your child that you are considerate of those around you and eager to lend a hand.
• Explore ways for your family to get involved in community service or local organizations.
• Embrace the principles of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. While this may sometimes be a challenge, making the effort to build these habits at home teaches children to care about the environment and contributes to a healthier planet for future generations.
• And don’t forget to smile! A simple smile can go a long way in spreading kindness.

At Sanford Middle School, we believe that every student is a STEM student, and this belief is woven into every aspect of our campus. We are thrilled to announce our inaugural Yearbook Cover Contest, offering students the chance to showcase their creativity and design skills. Students have submitted their unique cover designs, and now, Dr. Coleman will review and select the winning entry.. Below are a few samples.

These submissions go beyond simple artwork—they represent the deep connection between STEM and our school’s core values, all while incorporating this year's theme, "Rise Up." Each design is a personal expression of how STEM is integrated into the fabric of Sanford Middle, celebrating the rich opportunities our campus provides.

We take pride in being a student-centered campus, where student choice is a priority. Initiatives like the yearbook cover contest empower our Warriors to express themselves, take ownership of their learning, and influence school culture. At Sanford Middle, we are dedicated to creating environments where students can pursue their passions and bring their ideas to life.

Our Warriors proudly wore their traditional clothing from their home countries to celebrate the beauty of diverse cultures.

TopGolf Spirit Night - Oct 27, 4-6 PM
Join us for an afternoon of fun at TopGolf Lake Mary. Tickets are $20/person or $100 for an entire bay (for up to 6 players). Includes 2 hours of play and unlimited soda, lemonade and tea.
Tickets available at: smsptsa.givebacks.com/store
Show your Warrior spirit and wear your SMS spirit gear!

Reflections Art Competition

SMS PTSA invites all our Warrior students to participate in the Reflections Art Competition 2024-25. This year’s theme is Accepting Imperfection. All entries are due by October 1, 2024.

You can find details at - https://sites.google.com/view/smsreflections24-25/home

Join PTSA

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

Phill The Box

SMS PTSA is still collecting gently used clothing, shoes, accessories, and household linens for recycling and reuse, through September 30th. You can drop off your donations in plastic bags at the Phill the Box bins located in the SMS front parking lot near the dumpsters or with our designated volunteers during AM carline on select mornings. Interested in helping us collect items? We need volunteers for just 40 minutes (8:45-9:25 AM). Sign up here: https://bit.ly/46QHJw0

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

Every Child. One Voice

Sanford Middle wants to create a business advisory board, guest speakers, and additional “real-world “ experiences for its students. Here are the magnet programs for the school: Marine Biology, Zoology, Gaming, Coding, Engineering, Video Production, Aeronautics & Pre Med.

If you have any connections or opportunities for support, please attend the upcoming breakfast on October 2nd at 10 a.m.

SCPS looks forward to partnering with you!

• Students should have ID Badges everyday