MPMS COUGAR PRIDE NEWS
October 6, 2024
Fall Is In the Air!
Dear Manassas Park Middle School Cougar PRIDE Families,
October is here, and with it comes vibrant fall colors and exciting school activities! As we settle into the rhythm of the new school year, I want to remind everyone of the importance of regular attendance. Every day in class counts towards your child's academic success. Connect with your child about what they are learning at school and review their grades regularly. Speaking of school activities, our fall sports teams are in full swing, and our choir concerts are sure to be a highlight of the season. Don't miss out on all the fun and learning opportunities that this wonderful time of year has to offer!
At Manassas Park Middle School, we're shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Our focus is on cultivating the core competencies of critical thinking, collaboration, communication, creativity, and citizenship. By mastering these essential skills, our students will be well-equipped to achieve their academic and personal aspirations.
We're committed to creating a safe and supportive learning environment where every student feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential. We believe in setting high expectations and celebrating diversity, fostering a student-centered space where growth and achievement thrive.
To stay in the loop:
- Update your contact information: Ensure your cell phone number and email address are current on the PowerSchool Parent Portal.
- Check our website: Visit regularly for the latest news and event updates.
Get ready for a year filled with excitement and engagement! We're planning a series of special events, including Parent-Teacher Conferences, Multicultural/STEAM Night, Band and Choir Concerts, Athletic events, and much more.
Our October MPMS Cougar PRIDE NEWS newsletter is packed with valuable information. You'll find important dates, messages from our School Counselors, Librarian, Athletics Department, Nurses, and MPCS PTSO. Stay connected to Smith and be part of the journey!
I am honored to serve as the Principal of Manassas Park Middle School. It is truly special to be a part of a community where students, teachers, and parents care for each other and work together to foster academic and social-emotional growth.
Our team of educators is enthusiastic about the 2024-2025 school year and working with your child and family. Please don't hesitate to reach out to us with any questions, comments, or concerns. You can contact the school at 703-361-1510 or you can reach out to me via email at kip.tuttle@mpark.net. I am excited to collaborate with you to help each student achieve their personal academic goals.
With Cougar PRIDE,
Kip Gansneder Tuttle, Principal
MPMS - Important Upcoming Dates
Fri., Sept. 20 - Quarter 1 Midpoint
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Mon., Oct. 7 - Fall Sports Pictures, After School
Mon., Oct. 7 - MPCS School Board Meeting, 7PM
Tues., Oct. 8 - PRIDE Block Schedule & SEL Lesson
Oct. 9-11 - English Language Arts Quarterly Exams
Thur., Oct. 10 - MPCS Family Market, MPHS, 4PM (see below for more Family Market dates)
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Mon., Oct. 14 - Professional Development Day - No School for Students
Tues., Oct. 15 - PRIDE Block Schedule & SEL Lesson
Oct. 16-18 - Math Quarterly Exams
Thur., Oct. 17 - MPCS PTSO Spirit Night @ Chucky Cheese
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Oct. 21-24 - MPCS Celebrates Kindness Week - see Spirit Days Below!
Oct. 21-23 - Science & Social Studies Quarterly Exams
Mon., Oct. 21 - MPCS School Board Meeting, 7PM
Tues., Oct. 22 - PRIDE Block Schedule & SEL Lesson
Wed., Oct. 23 - 6th grade Choir Concert, 7PM
Thur., Oct. 24 - MPCS SEL Night, Manassas Park Plaza, 5:00-7:00 PM
Thur., Oct. 24 - 7th/8th Choir Concert, 7PM
Thur., Oct. 24 - End of Quarter 1
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Tues., Oct. 29 - NAEP Testing, Specific Students only
Tues., Oct. 29 - PRIDE Block Schedule & SEL Lesson
Wed., Oct. 30 - MPCS PTSO Meeting, 6:30PM
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Fri., Nov. 1 - No School for Students & Staff - Diwali
Mon., Nov. 4 - No School for Students
Mon., Nov. 4 - Parent-Teacher Conferences 10AM-6PM, by appointment. More info coming soon!
Tues, Nov. 5 - No School for Students , Virtual Teacher Workday - Election Day
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Mon., Nov. 11 - No School for Students & Staff - Veteran's Day
Fri., Nov. 15 - MPMS Picture Retake/Take Day
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Nov. 27-29 - Fall Break - No School for Students & Staff
For Athletic Event Dates, please scroll down.
Bell Foundation: Topgolf Brunch Fundraiser - Oct. 13th
UPDATED 2024-2025 MPCS School Year Calendar - Approved 8.12.24
On August 12, 2024, the MPCS School Board updated the 2024-2025 MPCS. Please follow this link for the updated calendar:
UPDATED 2024-2025 MPCS School Year Calendar - Approved 8.12.24
MPCS: An Off and Away for the Day School Division!
To foster a focused learning environment, Manassas Park City Schools (MPCS) and Manassas Park Middle School has implementing a new policy this year. All students in grades PK-8 must keep cell phones and wireless devices powered off and out of sight throughout the school.
We want to express our sincere gratitude to you and your student for their support in implementing this important change. We understand that when students can focus on their learning without distractions, they achieve better results. By keeping cell phones, AirPods, and other personal electronic devices off and away throughout the school day (6:45 AM - 2:15 PM), we are creating an environment that fosters concentration and academic growth.
How will we respond when students do not follow this expectation:
Responses and Consequences
First Offense: A referral will be written and processed by the Administration. The student’s device(s) will be confiscated, the parent notified and the student may pick up the device(s) from the office at the end of the school day.
Second Offense: A referral will be written and processed by the Administration. The student’s device(s) will be confiscated, the parent notified, and a parent/guardian can pick up the device from the office at the end of the school day.
Third Offense: A referral will be written and processed by the Administration. The student’s device(s) will be confiscated, the parent notified, and the parent must pick up the device(s) from the office at the end of the school day. The student will receive disciplinary action. The student will have to check the device into the front office each day school is in session. The duration of this consequence will be determined by the MPMS Administration team and in collaboration with the student’s parent/guardian. See the MPMS Student Handbook for responses beyond third offense.
For more information regarding cell phone and wireless device expectations for MPMS, please see our updated MPMS Student Handbook in the section titled: Cell Phones, Portable Electronic Devices (PED), and Wireless Earbuds/Headphones - UPDATED for 2024-2025 School Year
Expectations of Excellence
We want your student to achieve their maximum potential. To do this, we need to make sure the school day and instructional time are safe and focused, and distractions are limited. Please partner with us and talk with your student about following these important Expectations of Excellence:
Cell phones / airpods are to be off and away during the full school day. Students may use their phones / airpods prior to entering the building and after school. As needed, students may utilize the front office phone to communicate with parents. Our front office team is happy to assist.
Hats and hoods are not to be worn while in the school building.
MPCS CODE OF CONDUCT & MPMS STUDENT HANDBOOK
Students and Parents/Guardians,
We would like you to have quick access to the MPCS Code of Conduct and our updated MPMS Student Handbook. This is a great resource for students and parents regarding expectations and how to show Cougar PRIDE!
Thank you!
MPMS Staff
Cougars Are Bloomin' Awesome - Watch Us Grow!
Check out the amazing learning happening in our 8th grade Science classes!
Students researched Sound Technology and then created presentations for an impressive two classroom Gallery Walk! Congratulations Cougars and thank you Ms. Reardon, Ms. Liu-Gorman, and Mr. Holsclaw!
PAWS for PRIDE
MPMS Cougars Show their PAWS for PRIDE!
Students across MPMS do amazing things and we want to recognize them when they go above and beyond to be an amazing Cougar representing Cougar PRIDE: Positive, Responsible, Inspirational, Determined, and Engaged.
What is PAWS for PRIDE?
PAWS for PRIDE is a way for individual students to be recognized for going above and beyond to represent their individual Cougar PRIDE while earning PAWS for their grade level. When a student earns a PAWS for PRIDE recognition from their teacher, at lunchtime, they can stop by the office to turn it in. The PAWS for PRIDE earner will receive a small reward instantly, and their name will then be placed in our weekly drawing for a goodie bag. At the end of every quarter, the grade level with the most PAWS for PRIDE will receive a reward.
How can our students earn PAWS for PRIDE?
Students can earn PAWS for PRIDE by going above and beyond what is expected of them. PAWS for PRIDE are earned by students who are recognized for truly showing their Cougar PRIDE - they are Positive, Responsible, Inspirational, Determined, and Engaged!
Our PAWS for PRIDE Program is always a ROARING Success!
MPCS Connects!
We value your partnership in your child’s education. To stay connected, please join us at school events, get involved in our new Parent-Teacher Organization, and follow our school district’s communication channels. For instant updates, text Y or YES to 67587 to opt in to our text alerts.
Welcome to MPMS Counseling Department
We have a lot of fun and educational things planned for the 2024-2025 school year. We will continue to use ReThinkEd for Social Emotional Learning lessons and Major Clarity for Career Exploration and Academic and Career Plans. We are looking forward to hosting SEL nights with the other counseling departments across the division and our third 8th Grade Career Fair! We cannot wait to celebrate your school attendance, academic successes, attend band and choir concerts, as well as sporting events throughout the year.
Be sure to check out the Counseling Corner in every newsletter for an update from the department!
Our Manassas Park Middle School Counseling Department is excited to share our ReThinkEd lessons began this month during PRIDE block on Tuesdays! RethinkEd is our Social Emotional Learning (SEL) platform that we use to teach our students how to cope with day to day challenges. So far, MPMS staff have delivered lessons focused on relationships, respect, and self-control. Upcoming topics include problem solving our emotions.
We also would like to invite all middle school students and family to our annual Fall SEL night on October 24, 2024 at Manassas Park Plaza from 5:00-7:00 PM!
Upcoming Spirit Week: MPCS Cares About Kindness! October 21-25, 2024
✨Students are encouraged to show they care about kindness by participating in our Spirit Week Dress Up Days!✨
Manassas Park Middle School Counselors
Please use the link above to learn more about the Middle School Counseling Department and the support available to students, families, and the community!
Kelly Brickey, Lead School Counselor
Lead School Counselor and 6th Grade School Counselor
Ext. 17130
Anna Osborne
7th Grade School Counselor
Ext. 17131
Camille Bumbera
8th Grade School Counselor
Ext. 17129
MPMS BELL SCHEDULE
Regular Schedule - Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, & Fridays
PRIDE Block Schedule - Tuesdays
Wondering if it is a Gold Day or a Black Day? Check out our Calendar on at https://mpms.mpark.net/!
Please make sure your student is in school and in class by 7:17AM so they are on time for learning. Thank you!
#CougarPRIDE
MPMS Helpful Tips:
Parents - Quick TIP about Absences: If your child will be absent from school, please email us at MPMSAttendance@mpark.net and include the reason for their absence in your email. If you have a document associated with the absence, you can attach it to the email. As always, you can also call us at 703.361.1510.
Car riders - Safety Tip: Be sure to exit /enter your car at the sidewalk in front MPMS.
Free Lunches and Grab and Go breakfasts are available to all students.
Remember - please do not bring or send outside food to students during the school day. We have great lunches here but students are also welcome to being a packed lunch with them each day.
In the morning, students are welcome to pick up breakfast as early as 7:05AM.
At 7:05AM, all students should head directly to their homeroom.
Start the day off right! Be on time. The tardy bell rings at 7:17AM.
Discuss and practice daily before and after school routines.
Please make sure your child charges their Chromebook every night and has it and their charging cord in their backpack as they head off to school each morning.
Create a designated study space and time for learning at home.
Show Your PRIDE By Being Ready for Learning - Chromebook Edition!
Make sure your Chromebook is ready for school every day!
Our IT Department has been hard at work making sure our learning journeys will be successful this school year! We have new applications that we are excited to implement. More information to come as we get closer to the start of school.
We encourage you to complete the following:
Keep Your Chromebook Charged
Please bring your device and charging cord with you EVERY DAY!
At MPMS, we PRIDE ourselves on respecting our digital resources and devices. Students are responsible for the care, cleanliness, and current condition of their Chromebook and charger.
As you are surfing the Internet and exploring our digital world, let’s remember to be good Digital Citizens and be mindful of our screen time.
A great resource for families is Common Sense Media. They have a wide collection of resources in both English and Spanish to help support our tweens and teens.
MPMS Library News
Fall Tutoring at MPMS begins on September 9th and runs through December 19th
Fall Tutoring at MPMS began September 9th and will run through December 19th.
ALL In Tutoring
All students who qualify for tutoring have a form loaded into PowerSchool to confirm interests and days of the week that the student is available after school. Tutoring begins at 2:30pm and runs to 4:25pm. Transportation is provided via the activity bus. Parents will see a confirmation slip of days and times coming home with their student the week before tutoring begins.
Tutoring invitations are issues to students who scored a 440 or less on their spring SOL exam in Math or Reading. Students will be in small groups with a tutor working on Lexia and Imagine Math and getting direct instruction as needed.
Would you like your child to participate in After School Tutoring?
Please contact Rachel.kirkland@mpark.net or call (703) 361-1510 regarding our middle school tutoring program!
MPMS Athletics
Greetings from the MPHS/MPMS Athletic Department,
We are excited to announce some key new additions to our athletic department. I will start things off by introducing myself, Martin Astrop, as the Athletic Director for MPHS and MPMS. I came aboard in February of 2024 and can be reached via email at martin.astrop@mpark.net. We are also excited to announce Mr. Tracey T.D. Holsclaw tracey.holsclaw@mpark.net as our new Assistant Activities Director for MPMS! Mr. Holsclaw comes to MPMS with over 20+ years of coaching experience. Congratulations Mr. Holsclaw!
If you are planning on participating in sports this year, it’s time to start preparing. To participate, you must have a current athletic physical on file with the Athletic Department that is dated after May 1, 2024. The physical and other required forms can be found on the new athletic website. Our new athletic website is https://mpms.mpark.net/student_life/athletics. You can submit your paperwork to the MPMS Main Office or Mr. Holsclaw, Assistant Activities Director at MPMS.
Season Dates for 2024-25:
Fall: Aug. 26, 2024
Winter 1: Nov. 6, 2024
Winter 2: January 23, 2025
Spring: March 24, 2025
Additional Information:
Ticket prices for MS
$1 for Middle School and Elementary Students.
$3 for High School Students and Adults.
Kids under 6 and adults over 60 are free.
Staff Members with ID Badges are free.
Game Day Policy: Prince William County Schools has implemented a NO BAG policy for spectators. Please leave your bags in your vehicles when attending away events at their schools.
Ticket Prices for HS:
MPHS game tickets are purchased online through the athletic website or the HomeTown ticket app ($6.00 plus fees).
The HS will also accept cash at the gate, $7.00.
Kids under 6 and adults over 60 are free.
Staff Members with ID Badges are free.
Game Day Policy: Prince William County Schools has implemented a NO BAG policy for spectators. Please leave your bags in your vehicles when attending away events at their schools.
Please use our new website (www.mpcougarsathletics.com) to keep up to date with Cougar Athletics. This site provides information about tryouts, schedules, scores, coaches, and more for our Middle School and High School teams. Finally, you will want to follow us on Twitter (X) @mpcougars.Game day updates or changes will come through Twitter (X). We also use Instagram(mpcougars).
Martin Astrop, Athletic Director for MPHS and MPMS
MPHS/MPMS Athletics!
#WEAREMPARK
MPMS Volleyball In Action!
Looking for Athletic Event Updates?
Check the MPCS Cougar Athletics page for the latest information regarding Athletic Events!
A Message from Your Healthcare Team - OCTOBER HEALTH AWARENESS
CAR SAFETY
Did you know in Virginia, all children must use a properly installed car or booster seat that meets Department of Transportation standards until their 8th birthday? And the BEST safety practice is to continue to use booster seats until children can fit in an adult seat belt (at about 4'9" tall and 80 pounds).
More info about car safety and children can be found here:
https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/child-passenger-safety
VACCINES
Just a friendly reminder from your school nurses that now is the time to ask your doctor whether you or your children are candidates for the Covid and Influenza (flu) vaccines. Other vaccines to consider, depending on age and health of the individual:
Pneumonia
Shingles
RSV
Talk to your doctor about the best options for you and your family members.
EVENTS
**SAVE THE DATE FOR COMPLIMENTARY DINNER and OPIOID PRESENTATION ON NOVEMBER 19TH, 2024 at MPMS. More details to come!
The Nursing Team
REQUIRED SCHOOL SCREENINGS
Manassas Park City Public Schools, in accordance with the Code of Virginia (§ 22.1-273) and local policy, screens all students (through third grade) upon their initial entry in the areas of speech/voice/language skills, fine/gross motor functions, and vision and hearing. All students in grades Kindergarten, 3, 7, and 10 are also screened during the school year in vision and hearing unless:
1. any such student is admitted for the first time to a public elementary school and has been so tested as part of the comprehensive physical examination required (§ 22.1-270);
2. the parents or guardians of any such student object on religious grounds and the student shows no obvious evidence of any defect or disease of the ears; or
3. any such student has an Individualized Education Program or a Section 504 Plan that documents a defect of hearing or a disease of the ears and the principal determines that such a test would not identify any previously unknown defect of vision or hearing or a disease of the eyes or ears. If you have any helpful information regarding your student's vision or hearing, please send in a note to your school nurse.
Parental permission is not required for screening. Students who fail any of the above screenings will be rescreened. Results of the screenings will be provided to parents when completed.
If results suggest that a referral for evaluation for special education and related services is indicated, students must be referred to the special education chair within five business days after the screening. In accordance with the Code of Virginia (§ 22.1-273.1), parents of students in grades 5 through 10 will receive yearly information containing important facts about Scoliosis and Scoliosis screening.
Should students not have a private health care provider, please contact your school nurse for resources
MPMS General Supply List for Grades 6-8
All MPMS students are strongly encouraged to have a backpack to carry their school-issued Chromebook and Charge Cord to and from school.
While the items on our supply list are not required, our list serves as a helpful guide for parents and students preparing for the school year. We’ve outlined recommended items to help your child get fully geared up and ready to excel.
General Items
- Backpack - Strongly encouraged
- Pencils, several
- Pens (blue or black ink)
- Highlighters
- Spiral notebooks or composition books
- Loose-leaf paper
- Binder or accordion file folder
- If using a 3-ring binder, dividers for organizing subjects
- Pencil case or pouch
- Personal tissues and/or hand sanitizer (always good to have)
- Wired headphones (3.5 mm audio jack) for instructional purposes*
**Having a pair of wired headphones can be beneficial for instructional purposes. They allow you to listen to audio lessons and watch educational videos. Remember, while wired headphones are recommended for instructional purposes, it's important to follow our school's guidelines and policies regarding using personal technology devices.
By having these supplies readily available, you'll be well-prepared for your classes and able to engage in your learning effectively. Remember to check with your teachers for any specific supply requirements they may have for their individual classes.
MPCS PTSO
Our organization comprises dedicated parents, teachers, students, and community members committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all students. Our mission is to bridge the gap between parents, teachers, and students by promoting collaboration and enhancing the educational experience for all stakeholders. The organization needs support to be successful. Click here for more information and to donate.
Upcoming Events and Important Dates:
October 17: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM PTSO Night at Chuck E. Cheese (7730 Stream Walk Lane, Manassas, VA)
October 29: Pumpkin Decorating Contest Entries Due to info@mparkptso.org (see flyer below for more information)
October 30: Donations for Parent/Teacher Conferences Due (see flyer below for more information)
October 30: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM PTSO Meeting at Cougar Elementary
November 20: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM PTSO Meeting at Manassas Park High School
December 10: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM PTSO Dining Night at Noodles and Company
2024-2025 Officers:
Jessica Benitez-President
Nishith Andharia-Vice President
Jenny Lopez-Treasurer
Tara Cunningham-Secretary
Website: https://www.mparkptso.org/ Email: info@mparkptso.org
News from MPCS School Food and Nutrition Services
IMPORTANT BREAKFAST AND LUNCH INFORMATION
We are pleased to inform you that all schools in Manassas Park will continue to participate in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs called the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) for school year 2024-2025.
What does this mean for you and your children attending our schools?
Great news for you and your child(ren)! All enrolled students of Manassas Park are eligible to receive a healthy breakfast and lunch at school, at no charge to your household, each day of the 2024-2025 school year. No further action is required of you. Your child(ren) will be able to participate in these meal programs without having to pay a fee or submit a meal application.
If you have questions or need information, please contact the School Nutrition Office by emailing gregory.taylor@mpark.net or calling 703-361-1510 ext. 17212.
Sincerely,
Greg Taylor, Director of School Nutrition
MPCS / MPMS Transportation Information
MPCS is fortunate to have an outstanding Transportation Department!
Here are key pieces of information regarding getting to and from school via MPCS Transportation:
- All pick-up times are estimated and subject to change.
- Students must be at their designated bus stops five minutes prior to the estimated pick-up time.
- Parents/Guardians are responsible for the safety of their children to and from the bus stops and while waiting at the designated bus stops.
- Transportation to private daycare centers or to any private business is not provided by Manassas Park City Schools.
Check out the 2024-2025 Bus Routes
Need more information? Head to the MPMS Transportation page
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A CAREER CHANGE? JOIN OUR FLEET!
Whether you are changing careers or just getting back into the job market, this could be the opportunity you have been waiting for.
Manassas Park City Schools Transportation is offering back-to-back workshops throughout the 2024-2025 School Year to help you earn your CDL INSTRUCTION PERMIT.
The classes are free!
To be accepted into our School Bus Driver Training Program, you must have your CDL Instruction Permit in four areas: General Knowledge, Air Brakes, School Buses, and Transporting Passengers. These workshops will help prepare you for the questions you will need to know to obtain your CDL Learner’s Permit.
General Requirements:
· You must be at least 21 with at least 5 years driving experience
· You must have a Virginia Driver’s License and a safe driving record
· You must have a clean criminal record; no felonies
· You must be able to pass a DOT physical and drug test
· You must be able to read, write and comprehend English
· You must be able to commit to study, and attend classes
Transportation is also seeking qualified people who love children and want to work alongside the bus drivers as an attendant. It is a rewarding career working with our students. If you are interested contact transportation at 703-361-5044.
Community Resources and News
MAP Clinic - Immunization Information
The Code of Virginia (§22.1-272.2) requires that children are adequately immunized by before starting school.
For those without health insurance, the MAP Clinic, located at 99 Tremont St, Manassas Park, offers vaccinations, physicals, and other health care services. Call (703) 993-5880 for an appointment. Other options for immunizations, physical, and general healthcare include Prince William County Health Department, phone: 703-792-6300; Greater Prince William Health Center, phone: (703) 680-7950; and Bull Run Family Practice, phone: (703) 368-3161.
Postsecondary Opportunities for High School Students Webpage
The 2022 General Assembly passed House Bill 1299, directing the Virginia Department of Education and the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia to distribute to school divisions information that assists high school students in making more informed decisions about their futures and ensures that students are aware of the costs and benefits of different educational and certificate programs.
The Postsecondary Opportunities for High School Students webpage and the Level Up Virginia website contain information for students on preparing, applying, and paying for college, as well as information on degrees and labor market career projections. Please share these resources with your students in middle and high school to help them make informed decisions regarding preparing for post-high school educational and training opportunities.
Principal Kip Tuttle
Email: kip.tuttle@mpark.net
Website: https://mpms.mpark.net/
Location: 8202 Euclid Avenue, Manassas Park, VA 20111
Phone: 703-361-1510