DHRhoads

We have been conducting an in-depth analysis of our Final Exam process in the Middle School. As a result, we will be initiating an alternate exam program for all Grade 6 students this semester. The exam week schedule in December will remain the same (Mon. – Fri. Dec. 14-18, 8:15 am – 10:45 am). However, Grade 6 students will not be taking “paper and pencil” tests in the Gym. Rather, all Grade 6 students will be engaged in an interdisciplinary hands-on exam experience in regular classrooms. Grade 6 students will still be tested on their understanding of the first semester material, however the “exams” will be in classrooms and will be through a more performance based and authentic assessment.

ASFM is committed to providing an educational program that develops students who demonstrate academic excellence as well as positive disposition qualities. In an ongoing effort to ensure a Safe and Caring school environment, I invite you to reflect on, and discuss, the following current initiatives with your child(ren).

Grade 6 students will be watching and discussing the move “Pay it Forward.” In addition, students have been discussing the “7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens” and participating in a “homework/responsibility challenge.” In addition, the Counseling Department will be inviting students and parents to the school on the evening of December 1 (7:30pm) to participate in a “No Name Calling” activity and promote a Safe and Caring atmosphere in the ASFM community.

Grade 7 students will be entering into a “random acts of kindness” challenge. Students will have the opportunity to use an anonymous drop-box to report their peers for demonstrating kindness. Acts ranging from picking-up trash to being an assertive bystander will be recognized. Teachers will be selecting a “winner” from those nominated and the person chosen will be “Middle School Principal for the morning.” In addition, the Counseling Department will be inviting students and parents to the school on the evening of November 23 (7:30pm) to participate in a “Bullied to Death” activity and promote a Safe and Caring atmosphere in the ASFM community. Grade 7 students will also be reflecting on, and setting, Safe and Caring School goals with parents during Student-led-conferences.

Grade 8 students will be reflecting on, and setting, Safe and Caring School goals with parents during Student-led-conferences. Several events are taking place in Grade 8 during the next several weeks and over the remainder of the semester. For example, sessions on honesty and integrity in “tough times” will be discussed with students as ongoing attempt to engage our older middle school students in true reflection and planning to respond BEFORE finding themselves in a tough situation. Students will role-play scenarios and discuss a plan of response.

The essence of these grade level initiatives is to instill a sense of responsibility, commitment, and understanding in our students. We invite our community to support these initiatives and ask that all parents continue to emphasize the importance of good character and smart choices.

In addition to ensuring our students achieve academically, we engage our students in a variety of ongoing activities to support their social and emotional development. Please accept the information contained in this post as a “simple update” regarding some of our current initiatives.