Accepting the Challenge

There has perhaps never been a more difficult time for our young adults than the current times in which we live.  It seems that the dangers we as adults faced growing up pale in comparison to what is the norm today.  Consider bullying, for instance.  I shared with faculty that there are certain things I am self-conscious of as an adult because of the teasing I endured as an adolescent.  And while at that time parents and teachers may have brushed aside reports of teasing and taunting, a lot has changed since then, and sadly, many lives have been lost as a result.

At Hopewell, we realize the delicate stage of growth and development that our students are either entering or currently going through.  This is one of the reasons we have chosen to address bullying and harassment from many perspectives:

1. Hopewell Administration communicates to students on a regular basis that there is absolutely no tolerance for bullying and harassment. Student reports of bullying and harassment are addressed as quickly as possible.
2. Hopewell students are being asked to "accept the challenge" on Wednesday, October 5th. You will have an opportunity to accept the challenge as well on October 5th at 7pm in the gym. Want to know what it's all about? Visit www.rachelschallenge.org for more information.We have invited the entire community, and hope you will join us to be a part of this exciting, life-changing experience.
3. On Friday 9/30 during homeroom, all students will view a presentation I created to help them understand the severity of bullying and harassment behaviors and the consequences if they choose to engage in them.  I will make the presentation available on the website as well as this blog.

2011 PTA Fall Family Picnic

Beautiful weather, great food, and a relaxed atmosphere... I can't think of a better way to kick off the fall season!

Thank you to all of those who contributed in any way to PTA's annual Fall Family Picnic. I had a great time meeting families, eating ice cream, and watching the kids have a ball on the jumper. 

If you missed it, we'd love to see you next year! Support the Hopewell community and be a part of this wonderful event!

Data, Data Everywhere!

Mr. Aubry reviews math problems with 8th grade students.

During the Curriculum Night welcome address on September 12th and 13th, I had the opportunity to share the outstanding 2011 CRCT results. I am immensely proud of all of the teachers and staff members who work so diligently every day to support student achievement. Our trend data shows increases in all of the appropriate areas (students meeting and/or exceeding the standard) as well as decreases in the appropriate area (students not meeting standard).  In case you missed it or would like to see it again, the presentation can be accessed at: http://www.hopewellmustangs.net/PDF/Parentpresentation.pdf.

You will notice that data is shared for all students, and then for certain "subgroups" of students.  I was deliberate in my terminology for each group to be consistent with what you would see if you viewed the data directly from the state at www.gadoe.org. Sometimes looking at data broken out this way can be uncomfortable, and even a touchy subject. But, if we don't know where we are, how can we decide where we want to go?  I am committed to being open, honest, and transparent, and encourage you to dialogue with me and share your thoughts on how we can continue to move forward!

Get Connected

Many parents believe that middle school children need to learn independence, take responsibility for themselves, and for goodness sake, GROW UP!  And guess what? They're right! But how does this need to grow impact the parent's role in the school? While you may think it's time to be more "hands-off," know that your involvement is still necessary, even critical, to your child's success.  This blog will help you stay connected and offer opportunities to get involved. Feel free to share your ideas, and ask questions!

Get Connected....

1. Join PTA - Did you know that for as little as $10 per member, our PTA provides resources for classrooms, parents, and teachers?  If you haven't already done so, follow the link below to sign up.  We currently have about 65% membership from our families.  Can we do better than that? I know we can!  http://www.hopewellpta.com/PDF/HMS_membershipform.pdf
2. Come to Curriculum Night - On Monday, September 12th (6th grade) and Tuesday, September 13th (7th and 8th grades) we will host our annual Curriculum Night. Not only is an opportunity to meet your child's teachers and hear about all the great things planned for the year, but you will also have the opportunity to review the propsed PTA budget, as well as hear remarks from me!  You don't want to miss this very important event.  We will begin at 6:45 in the gymnasium.  Hope to see you there!
3. Celebrate with us on Family Fun Night - On Friday, September 23rd, from 5:30-7:30, join us for food, fellowship, and fun.  Whether you're new to the community or simply want to connect with other families, we look forward to having you!

HMS Band Students are Top-Notch!