Middle School Newsletter 10.30.2023

Building relationships with staff and students within a school is crucial for creating a positive and effective learning environment. These relationships contribute to a sense of community, trust, and collaboration, which in turn can have a significant impact on the overall educational experience.

We have dedicated the first 30 minutes of our day (Community) as a time where students and staff can build authentic relationships with one another. Each community class has two designated staff members that co-plan and teach during this time. Community classes have the autonomy to incorporate activities that will enhance relationships, social/emotional growth and fun. 

Here are some of the known benefits of belonging to a community:

• Learning: When students feel like they belong to a community, they are more likely to actively engage in class discussions, ask questions, and participate in group activities. This engagement can significantly enhance their learning experience.

• Increased Motivation: A sense of belonging can boost students' motivation to attend class regularly and excel in their studies. When they feel connected to their peers and instructors, they are more likely to be invested in the learning process.

• Emotional Support: In a community class, students are more likely to support each other emotionally. They can share their challenges, seek advice, and offer encouragement. This creates a support system that helps students cope with the stress of academic life.

• Positive Classroom Culture: A strong sense of community fosters a positive classroom culture where students are respectful, inclusive, and understanding of one another. This not only benefits the students but also creates a more pleasant teaching and learning environment for instructors.

• Diverse Perspectives: A strong community often brings together students from various backgrounds and perspectives. This diversity enriches the learning experience by exposing students to different viewpoints and fostering critical thinking.

• Mental Health and Well-being: Feeling like part of a community can positively impact students' mental health and well-being. Loneliness and isolation can lead to stress and anxiety, while a supportive community can provide a buffer against these negative emotions.

I hope each of you have a wonderful week and please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns or questions. 

Kindly,

Kim

314.645.9600 (607)~kwright@premiercharterschool.org 

UPCOMING EVENTS

• October 30-Board Meeting and Parent Meet and Greet

• October 30-Nov 3 Math Spirit Week

• November 2-Math Night

• November 10-No School

• November 16-Picture Retakes

• November 22-24-No School

Drop Off Reminder:

Now that we are a few weeks into the school year, we wanted to reiterate that our morning drop off process does not begin until 8:00 am.  Our morning duty staff are not outside to supervise drop off until 8:00 am.  In the interest of student safety, please do not leave your child(ren) unsupervised before morning duty begins.

We recently revised our late pick up policy because of an increase in students being picked up after our dismissal ends at 3:35.  We also have a significant number of unsupervised children in the morning and would like to avoid an additional revision of our drop off/pick up policy.  We appreciate your support in this matter as we work to keep all of our students safe. 

Veterans Day Assembly:

You and your military family are cordially invited to join the PCS family for our 11th annual Veterans’ Day Assembly on Thursday, November 9th, from 2-3:00pm in the courtyard. (Rain plan - PCS Gym)
Please return the form attached to this email (or fill out the online form) so we may have enough chairs for our assembly and treats at the reception immediately following the assembly from 3:00-3:30pm.

Contact the following teaching with questions.

Ms. Stevens in the MS (vstevens@premiercharterschool.org)

Ms. Wagener in the ELEM (mwagener@premiercharterschool.org)

Ms. Bowe in the EC (mbowe@premiercharterschool.org)

Here is the PDF of the flyer 

Veteran's Day Assembly RSVP Form

Board Meeting and Parent Reception:

Today, October 30th at 4:30pm is this months Board Meeting followed by a Parent Reception at 6:30pm. Parents should arrive at Building C and the reception is expected to be in the courtyard (weather permitting). 

Fall Family Survey:

At PCS, we are all about growth.  We love being a part of our students' growth as they go from kindergarteners just finding their way in the world to curious, empowered middle schoolers ready to take on whatever challenges life holds.

As a school, we constantly strive for growth as well.  And the best resource we have to support our ongoing growth as a school is you and your children.

This week we are going to be asking our 3rd through 8th grade students for their input and feedback through our annual fall student surveys.  We would also love to hear from you.  This link will take you to our fall family survey.  Please take a few minutes and give us your feedback.  We will use what we learn from you as we continually strive to better meet the needs of our students and families.  You can contact Dr. Schrimpf at mschrimpf@premiercharterschool.org with any questions.