Middle School Newsletter 4.17.2023
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
Summer opportunity for 6th graders…
Sherwood Forest is still accepting youth in 1st-6th grade to participate in a low-cost residential summer camp program. Sherwood Forest's residential program consists of traditional camp activities like canoeing and tie dye, as well as reading, ecology, and social and emotional learning. Program length ranges from 7 to 28 days, depending on camper's age. For more information or to register for camp, reach out to the Camp Director at alexisn@sherwoodforeststl.org or visit https://www.sherwoodforeststl.org/register/.
From the library…
April Reading Challenge!
We have a new reading challenge for April and beyond. Complete the 10 reading tasks and turn the signed form to Mrs. Ramsey in the PCS library by Friday, May 19 to earn a bookmark and.a free book! Happy Reading!
April-May 2023 Reading Challenge
Upcoming Dates:
April 17-21- 8th Grade MAP Testing
April 24-26- 6th Grade MAP Testing
April 27th- Multicultural Fair
April 28- No School
April 30-May 5- MS Trip to DC
May 3- Board Meeting
May 11- Field Day
May 11- Noon Dismissal
May 12- No School
May 24-8th Grade Graduation
May 25- Last Day of School-Noon Dismissal
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Kim Wright M.Ed. LPC, RPT
Middle School Principal
Supporting the curious and empowered learner since 2000
National School of Character