When we look back at our middle school years and compare it to our students middle school experience it is hard not to say "Middle School is different than it used to be". It is different. Our students are facing things that we couldn't even imagine when we were in Middle School. Some of the changes are positive...students in Douglas County can chose the school that best meets their needs, they can make plans with a group of friends easily with one text message, and parents can communicate instantly (or almost instantly with their kids. Some of the changes haven't been as positive. Social media has made it easier to be mean to each other without having to take responsibility. It has also served as a distraction from learning and creativity.
Last week I met with the 7th and 8th grade students and discussed social media and using it more appropriately. I also asked parents to investigate what their children are posting on social media. We are doing our part here at school by stepping up enforcement of our cell phone policy. Cell phones should only be in lockers and should be off during the day. I sent out an email on Sunday that provided details to a parent seminar that is being hosted by the Douglas County Sheriff's office.
In meeting with teachers, we came up with a couple of other concerns we would like to share with all of you this week and ask for your help. Please do not text your students while they are at school. Texting them while at school is only encouraging them to not follow the school's cell phone policy. If you need to get a hold of your student, please email their teachers and/or myself, or call the front office and we will get them the message. The other concern that come up was about Netflix and other steaming services. We are increasingly hearing about students staying up until very early in the morning "binge watching" shows. Some brag about being up until 2 or 3 am on school nights streaming videos. If they have devices in their rooms, most likely they are watching things much later than you might realize. This is impacting our students academically. When they are not getting adequate rest, they are not able to focus and work while they are here.
There has been a positive development that I would like to highlight. A new Instagram account was created last week after our class meetings, and it's purpose is to build the students up. It consists of positive messages about other students. It has really made a positive difference, especially in 7th grade. I am very proud of the mystery Instagrammer bringing positivity and kindness to social media! Way to take up Rachel's Challenge!
VALENTINES DANCE
We want all middle school students to participate in this fun activity! No dates, please.
The Party Planning Elective has been busy planning the Middle School Valentine's Dance. The dance will be held on Saturday, February 11 from 6pm-8pm in the small gym. Desserts and drinks will be available. Tickets are on sale now for $5 if purchased by Sunday, February 5. Ticket prices will be $10 at the door if not purchased in advance. Advanced tickets can be purchased through the BFA Online store: https://www.bfacademystore.org/SearchResults.asp?Cat=1848
GRADE LEVEL NEWSLETTERS:
Last week I met with the 7th and 8th grade students and discussed social media and using it more appropriately. I also asked parents to investigate what their children are posting on social media. We are doing our part here at school by stepping up enforcement of our cell phone policy. Cell phones should only be in lockers and should be off during the day. I sent out an email on Sunday that provided details to a parent seminar that is being hosted by the Douglas County Sheriff's office.
In meeting with teachers, we came up with a couple of other concerns we would like to share with all of you this week and ask for your help. Please do not text your students while they are at school. Texting them while at school is only encouraging them to not follow the school's cell phone policy. If you need to get a hold of your student, please email their teachers and/or myself, or call the front office and we will get them the message. The other concern that come up was about Netflix and other steaming services. We are increasingly hearing about students staying up until very early in the morning "binge watching" shows. Some brag about being up until 2 or 3 am on school nights streaming videos. If they have devices in their rooms, most likely they are watching things much later than you might realize. This is impacting our students academically. When they are not getting adequate rest, they are not able to focus and work while they are here.
There has been a positive development that I would like to highlight. A new Instagram account was created last week after our class meetings, and it's purpose is to build the students up. It consists of positive messages about other students. It has really made a positive difference, especially in 7th grade. I am very proud of the mystery Instagrammer bringing positivity and kindness to social media! Way to take up Rachel's Challenge!
VALENTINES DANCE
We want all middle school students to participate in this fun activity! No dates, please.
The Party Planning Elective has been busy planning the Middle School Valentine's Dance. The dance will be held on Saturday, February 11 from 6pm-8pm in the small gym. Desserts and drinks will be available. Tickets are on sale now for $5 if purchased by Sunday, February 5. Ticket prices will be $10 at the door if not purchased in advance. Advanced tickets can be purchased through the BFA Online store: https://www.bfacademystore.org/SearchResults.asp?Cat=1848
GRADE LEVEL NEWSLETTERS: