Weekly Family Message

On Tuesday, December 5, students will complete the Peer Nomination Survey, which is one of the ways we work to keep students safe at school. This survey asks students to identify classmates that they may be concerned are experiencing bullying in a safe and anonymous way. As a reminder, students and families can always submit concerns through Anonymous Alerts. If you do submit and Anonymous Alert please include contact information as it helps us to gather more information if needed, but it is run through an encryption process, so your Alert is still anonymous. 

 

This Thursday students will be taking the Math SOL Growth Test (except for Algebra and Geometry students). We will take the Reading SOL Growth Test on December 12. These tests help us get a mid-year check on student progress and growth. You can learn more about them here: Growth Assessments | Virginia Department of Education 

 

We are closely monitoring student attendance. Attendance is vital for student growth and learning. We are sending updates about attendance as needed. If you have any questions about attendance or if you have any questions or concerns please reach out to us. Recently, Dr. Jesse Turner, ACPS Director of Student and Family Support, was on NBC29 discussing the ACPS focus on attendance. 

 

We are in the midst of our Food and Toy Drive. We are focusing on collecting items that middle school students might enjoy like fidgets, stickers, tech accessories, etc. Donations will be accepted through December 4 for toys and December 11 for non-perishable food. 

 

On Wednesday, December 6, Doug Bloor, 8th Grade Counselor, will host a Zoom information session about high school registration and transition information. Mr. Bloor is sending out a Zoom link to all 8th grade families for this event.  

 

Golden Apple Nominations are now open! The Golden Apple Award is a means of selecting and honoring some of our outstanding teachers. The nominee exhibits the following characteristics:

• Creates a love of learning in students of all abilities and backgrounds.
• Stimulates thought and provokes student dialogue.
• Challenges students to reach high standards and expectations.
• Understands the needs of students individually and collectively and meets those needs with determination, enthusiasm and imagination.
• Involves families in the education process.

*Teachers who have won in the past three years are not eligible for a Golden Apple Award. 

Visit here to nominate a teacher today: Golden Apple Awards 

 

This Coming Week

Monday, December 4-BLUE DAY

Tuesday, December 5-GOLD DAY

Wednesday, December 6-BLUE DAY

• Rising 9th Grade Zoom Meeting at 6:00 p.m. 

Thursday, December 7-GOLD DAY

• SOL Math Growth Test
• Orchestra Concert at MoHS at 7:00 p.m. (WMS, BMS, and MoHS)

Friday, December 8-BLUE DAY

 

Coming Up

December 9-District Band Tryouts at WMS 

December 12-SOL Reading Growth Test

• Band and Choir Concert at 7:00 p.m. 

December 14--WMS Faculty Meeting at 8:00 a.m. in Cafeteria

• Door Decorating During End-of-Day Advisory (Schedule Here)

December 15-Staff vs. Student Basketball Game

December 18-Jan 1-Winter Break-NO SCHOOL