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Letters from the Principal |
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As I'm walking around the school I've been noticing that students appear to be feeling much more comfortable with the daily life and routines of middle school than even just a few weeks ago. Students are getting to class prepared to learn each day, they have made new friends and reconnected with old ones, and the normal apprehension of the beginning of school is beginning to fade. As I hope your child is still excited about this school year. As we move into the year, I would like to stress the importance of continuing to "check in" with your child regarding school. Even though middle school students often push their parents away, research shows that this is a critical time for parents to stay involved in their child's education. One way to check in with your child is to log on to Skyward Family Access together to view grades. Asking questions about what's going on in class, helping to prioritize time around areas in which he or she not doing as well, and/or praising are all great ways to connect with your middle schooler. In addition, first quarter progress reports should be coming in early November. These are another opportunity have a conversation about school I hope you will also continue to stay in close communication with your child's teachers - especially when you have specific concerns or questions. This communication is an important component of a home and school partnership that allows us all to better support our kids. Please feel free to call or email staff directly to communicate or schedule an appointment to meet. Our counselors as well as Carol Frodge, the assistant principal, and I are always available to work with you as well. In addition to the connection you make with your child, we're committed at AMS to supporting our students academically and socially. Our academic study club is available from 2:30 - 3:05 after school everyday except Thursdays. We also starting an after school academic and math support program on Wednesday's that extend for 45 minutes beyond our study club period. If we haven't contacted you already and you are interested in getting extra support for you child, please let us know. Transportation is available for our extended study periods. It is also important for students to develop their athletic and social interests within a safe and structured setting. In our newsletter, we've included a list of after school clubs that are currently available. These clubs are a great way for students to meet new people and develop a skill or passion. For more information about clubs, please contact Kris Freywald at 431-7311 ext 4005. Finally, as you may have heard, on the November ballot is measure EHJR 4204. This measure would amend the Washington State Constitution and would provide that a simple majority of voters could authorize school district levies. In Edmonds, levies pay for such things as teachers, textbooks, transportation and special education, and account for about 19% of our operating budget. More information about the measure can be our newsletter. The election is on November 6 and on the Edmonds School District website.. We are committed to creating a school climate that will foster your child's interest in learning. Please continue to stay in touch with us as often as necessary. Mike VanOrden
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