Middle School Newsletter 4.8.2024

I love quotes. I love stumbling across them, reading them and immediately thinking of someone. I will then often send that person the quote to let them know I am thinking of them. Other quotes can cause me to pause and reflect and inevitably I can see how it directly relates to my current circumstances. Here is one I read a few days ago:

Children don’t say, “I had a hard day, can we talk?” They say, “will you come play with me?”.

Read it again. Really hits home.

Parenting is one of the hardest, if not the hardest, responsibility we have. Helping our children navigate through these crucial teen years can be exhausting. I don’t say this to age us but life is so very different for our children. As they attempt to figure who they are and where they fit in they are also being bombarded with images and messages coming at them at lightning speed. Then we add the stress of this pandemic and it really is quite miraculous that they are holding it together as well as they are. Or are they actually barely hanging on?

They are often left feeling confused, lonely, hurting and angry. As parents I am sure we have all experienced a less than pleasant interaction with our child when they are upset. Teens often struggle to control how they react in the moment. Many times they can’t even identify what they are actually feeling, much less know how to respond appropriately. As adults we are here to love them unconditionally while giving appropriate consequences when necessary. We need to help give them the tools they need to regulate their emotions.

I know that at times I certainly could have handled these difficult situations better. What I've come to realize is that we all need grace. Grace for our children, one another and most importantly ourselves. Last week I had the privilege to talk with two different PCS parents who are also struggling. I am beyond grateful for their willingness to have such vulnerable and honest conversations. As I was ending the call I reminded them that they aren't in this alone and in that moment I realized I am also not in this alone! We are all, including our children, doing our best.

So, the next time my daughter asks me to go get my nails done with her I will go because maybe this is her way of reaching out to let me know something is going on and she needs her mom but doesn’t know how to say that.

Please remember, I’m here to not only support your child but you too. Please reach out to me if you would ever like to talk.

Kindly,

Kim

314.645.9600 (607)~kwright@premiercharterschool.org

Upcoming Events

April 8-11- 7th Grade MAP Testing
April 12- MS Dance
April 16-18- 6th Grade MAP Testing
April 25- MCF
April 26- No School
April 30-May 2-8th Grade Camp
May 3- No School
May 16- Board Meeting
May 17- Field Day
May 23-8th Grade Graduation

MAP TESTING:

Why are MAP scores important for high school?

Many high schools have requirements for enrollment. MAP scores are a common benchmark that determines student eligibility. Typically, schools are looking for scores in the proficient or advanced categories in Math, English, and Science. High schools will look at MAP scores from 6th-8th grade.

MAP Test Tips

1. Regular school attendance is key to student success.

Being present in the classroom means daily, direct instruction from teachers that will support student mastery of grade level expectations before it’s time for the test.

2. Get a good night’s sleep to perform well on testing days.

Research shows that getting a good night’s sleep promotes memory, reasoning, creativity, and emotional regulation. Missing out of sleep impacts a student’s ability to focus, which is crucial to exam success. Students should aim for 8-10 hours of sleep each night.

3. Eat a balanced breakfast to fuel brain power.

It is true that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, as it has the power to balance blood sugars and kickstart metabolism. Because the brain controls important test-taking skills such as sustained attention, try pairing a carb (like oatmeal, fruit, or cereal) with a protein (like eggs, yogurt, or milk) for optimal brain power!

4. Have a positive attitude.

Placing too much pressure on the test results can have a negative impact on your student’s ability to perform at their true potential. Set the tone at home by modeling an optimistic and calm outlook and assure them that, while the MAP test is important, they are more than a single test score.

Food Service Update:

Parents and Guardians:

I realize that we ask for your opinion often, and your responses are always welcomed and appreciated. Please take a few minutes in the next day or two to answer this survey regarding your child(ren)'s eating habits at school and about the food service at Premier Charter School in general.

Thank you for your time, and if you have any specific questions or comments that aren't addressed in this survey, please contact Mr. Doyle (kdoyle@premiercharterschool.org)

PCS Parent Foodservice Survey