The Stinger December 15, 2023

Outstanding STAR Students

There are students out there who continue to do the right thing, don't always get recognized for their efforts, or just might need a little pick me up. We invite you to write up a nomination. Please revolve your answer around Safety, Trustworthy, Accountable, Respectful. Student names will be read on announcements OR they will get a special visit in one of their classrooms. When completing, you can remain anonymous if you so choose.

Stinger Shining Staff

This is an opportunity (and part of our PBIS system) for you to share your words of appreciation to any staff member on our campus- and it is FREE. The form below will take less than a minute to complete. We appreciate you in advance for letting our staff know the great joy and success that they bring to our campus, students, and community!

Stingers of the Month

ACADEMICS

Office Hours are by appointment only. Every teacher will have a google form that students will complete prior to attending their office hours. This ensures safety and also allows for our teachers to appropriately prepare for the many needs that our students have when they come to get additional support in office hours.

FINALS PREPARATION

Parents play a crucial role in supporting middle school students during finals. Here are some ways parents can provide assistance and create a positive and conducive environment for their children:

1. Establish a Supportive Routine: Help your child establish a routine that includes dedicated study time, breaks, and sufficient sleep. Consistency can help reduce stress.
2. Create a Quiet Study Space: Provide a quiet and well-lit study space free from distractions. Ensure that necessary supplies, like textbooks and notebooks, are readily available.
3. Encourage Effective Study Habits: Support your child in developing effective study habits, such as summarizing information, making flashcards, and using active learning techniques.
4. Communicate Openly: Maintain open communication with your child. Ask about their progress, listen to their concerns, and offer guidance when needed.
5. Monitor Screen Time: While technology can be a useful tool for studying, monitor your child's screen time and ensure that it is used productively. Limit distractions during study sessions.
6. Provide Healthy Snacks: Offer nutritious snacks and meals to keep energy levels up. Avoid excessive caffeine and sugary snacks, as they can lead to energy crashes.
7. Encourage Breaks: Remind your child to take short breaks during study sessions to avoid burnout. Physical activity during breaks can help refresh the mind.
8. Celebrate Efforts, Not Just Results: Recognize and celebrate your child's efforts and hard work. Positive reinforcement can boost their confidence and motivation.
9. Be Available for Questions: Let your child know that you are available to help with questions or provide guidance. Offer assistance without taking over, allowing them to build problem-solving skills.
10. Model Stress Management: Model healthy stress management techniques. Children often learn by example, so demonstrating effective ways to handle stress can be beneficial.
11. Connect with Teachers: Stay in touch with your child's teachers to understand the expectations for each subject and identify areas where additional support may be needed.
12. Provide Emotional Support: Recognize that exam periods can be stressful, and provide emotional support. Encourage a positive mindset and remind your child that exams are a part of the learning process.
13. Balance Expectations: Set realistic expectations and encourage your child to do their best rather than focusing solely on achieving high grades. Emphasize the importance of learning and growth.
14. Offer Encouragement: Offer words of encouragement and express confidence in your child's abilities. Remind them that it's okay to face challenges and that mistakes are opportunities for learning.
15. Plan Relaxation Activities: Plan relaxation activities or breaks together as a family to help your child unwind and reduce stress.

Remember that every child is unique, so it's essential to be flexible and adapt your support strategies based on your child's needs and preferences. A balance of encouragement, structure, and understanding can go a long way in helping your middle school student navigate finals successfully.

CLUBS

ATHLETICS