|
 |
|
|
![]() |
|
|
 |
|
![]() |
As of this writing, I find myself overwhelmed with excitement for the start of another school year. It's hard to believe that nearly 3 months have flown by, as I am continually reminded about the dramatic physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual growth that occurs in young adolescents. I have been corresponding throughout the summer with several of our students, all of whom were anxiously awaiting the beginning of the year. While many joke that that students are sad that the summer is over, our students continue to display an eagerness to return that is infectious to say the least. This sense of belonging and optimism about the year to come sets the stage for the "positive vibe" in our community that helps to make it the special place that it is.
The best of luck to all of our 180 students, especially to the 19 students new to FA. Our new sixth grade, the class of 2014, are about to embark on an incredible journey as they make the transition from their elementary years to adolescence. They should remember that everyone makes this transition differently, and while there is likely to be "growing pains" and some sense of uncertainty about what lies ahead, that the support system that awaits you is enormously open and receptive to helping students feel good about their growth during this time. Our faculty are middle school students at heart, and will be there every step of the way to help guide and support. Even the most seasoned parent knows that this time in their child's development can be the most rewarding, and sometimes the most challenging. My best advice is to listen, listen, listen. Be willing to engage your children in discussions about the changes they are going through and support them however you feel necessary. Most importantly, recognize that you can't fix every problem that may arise and your willingness to allow your children to take responsibility for their actions will count as some of their most important life lessons. While it can be discouraging to watch them stumble along the way, trust that they will not fall very far.
I'd like to remind all of the families new to the school that September 4th will mark the day of our new student orientations for all of the 6th grade students and parents at 10:00AM and all of the new 7/8th grade students and parents at 1:00PM. During these meetings, we will spend a significant amount of time getting acquainted and learning more about the policies and procedures of the middle school. In addition, as our school wide theme will be on respect and kindness this year, look for special attention to be paid to our "Portrait of the Community" which can be found in your student handbook or on the FA web site. Encompassing our fundamental beliefs as a school, this document will help to guide your child's experience at FA, and give you a strong sense of our Quaker mission.
I would like to ask that parents carefully read the Friends Academy Directory and Handbook and become familiar with the policies and important routines of the school.
Just a reminder…. School begins promptly at 8:05am everyday. Students should arrive on campus no later than 7:55AM (no earlier than 7:45AM unless prearranged with a teacher). If your child reports that the bus is arriving regularly after 8am, please contact your school district. Usually the first week of school is a little chaotic, but things should settle in soon thereafter. If you drive your child to school, please begin the year with a plan of arriving on time. If students arrive after 8:05 am, the advisor will mark them late and this will be reflected on the report card. If the problem continues, the school reserves the right to contact the parent to resolve the issue on behalf of the child. If the child is ill, please call the middle school office (393.4239). If you will be picking your child up early from school, you must either call (before 2:00PM) or send in a note explaining the reason for an early pick up and parents must report to the middle school office to sign their child out. Thank you for your support in following these very important procedures.
Lastly, I'd like to point out two especially important dates for our MS families. The first is our annual Back to School Night on September 25th at 7:30PM. This event is a terrific time to familiarize yourself with the classes your children will be taking and to meet some of the teachers who they will be working with this year. Remember that this is not the time for specific meetings to discuss child progress, more so, a time to get acquainted with the school and get an overview of the program. In addition, mark your calendars for our annual Fall Fair and Homecoming, the same week, on September 28th and 29th. A great community event, this is especially a good time to catch up with friends!
Have a great school year and I look forward to working with you!
|
![]() |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
