Paola Middle School
September 2018 Newsletter
Important Dates
September 10th- Volleyball- 8th @ Pioneer Ridge; 7th @ Home
September 11th- Football- @ Pioneer Ridge
September 12th - Parent Teacher Conferences from 4-8 p.m.
September 15th- Cross Country at Trail Ridge
September 17th- Volleyball- 8th @ Home; 7th @ Wheatridge
September 18th- Football- @ Home vs. Eudora
September 19th- Football- @ Louisburg
September 22nd- Cross Country @ Ottawa
September 24th- Volleyball- 8th @Baldwin; 7th @ Ottawa
September 27th- Cross Country @ Central Heights
September 29th- Cross Country @ Baldwin; JV Volleyball- 7th @ Louisburg; 8th @ Wheatridge
STAFF SPOTLIGHT
Sydney Gant & Kenna Ryals
8th Grade Journalism
Passionate, intelligent, world traveler. Those are 3 words to describe the new teacher, Mr. Margolis. After we interviewed him it became clear that he is a very interesting guy, and an even better person to write an article about.
He teaches history for 7th and 8th graders, but he first started out as an English major. His professor was not open to his student’s thoughts and opinions, and while he still shares a love for English, he switched majors because he never wanted to follow in his professors footsteps. Mr. Margolis still loves writing, and even said that if he hadn’t decide to teach history, he would love to be an english teacher, or teach anything related to ELA.
He took on the challenge of teaching middle schoolers because he believes that our age is “Old enough so our minds are mature, but young enough to be molded”. The way he views his job and the way he conveys information to his students is remarkable. He stated that “People aren't different they only have different experiences, but by studying others stories you can learn about human potential.”
Mr. Margolis grew up in Dallas Texas, but he can’t say he misses it at all because it’s too hot there. He studied at an experimental school in California, called Deepsprings, served in the military, lived in Columbia, New York, and spent 3 years in the corporate world. He has also lived in Georgia, Illinois, Germany, and Afghanistan. He moved to Kansas because his wife’s family lives here. He likes the small town vibe and the community. His favorite foods are chicken and waffles, and sachertorte which is a type of chocolate cake from Germany. In his free time he likes to read, write, workout, and cook.
When asked what inspires him, his answer was unexpected. He said, “that bravery drives him more than anything else. Someone’s willingness to sacrifice oneself for a greater cause is really enheartening.”
I think the most powerful thing he shared is that “early in life you think you’re the most interesting person in the world, but as you grow older you realize that you aren’t that interesting and there’s tons of people who are way more interesting than you. Look up to them, and use them as motivation.”
Mr. Margolis was very neat and interesting person to get to know. It was a great experience to learn about the way he views life. We can confidently say that we have a very swell guy teaching us history.
Activity Corner: GET INVOLVED!
Middle School is a transition age. They may try one thing an then another, in an effort to "find themselves." That is okay. You should let them do some experimentation, so they can find their true north in terms of what they truly enjoy and excel in. Often there is an undiscovered talent that kids display later on that was not evidence in the beginning.
Students are also encouraged to become involved in supporting their peers by being an active fan at games and events.
Social Corner: Middle School "Friendships"
For many middle school students, they have a hard time distinguishing the difference between acquaintances, classmates, and a "real friend." This can cause issues from them at school from the confusion of understanding a true friendship.
The Truth About Real Friends
- Real friends support one another
- Real friends say "I'm sorry"
- Real friends are not jealous
- Real friends can be trusted
- Real friends show respect
- Real friends listen to one another
- Real friends make an effort
- Real friends may act like "jerks" some of the time, but they eventually come around
We encourage positive social interactions, and the emotional growth of all students at PMS. If you have any concerns regarding your students emotional health, we encourage you to reach out to our counselors on staff.
Academic Corner: Making the Grade!
GIVING THE BASICS!
Giving the Basics (www.givingthebasics.org) is a free program available to USD #368 students that provides the necessities of life, not covered by government assistance programs, that most people take for granted such as laundry soap, shampoo, deodorant, toilet paper and other personal care hygiene products.
Giving the Basics distributes products to more than 65 pantry locations and 186 schools in 14+ school districts, including USD 368, making the basics accessible to 220,000 people monthly.
For more information or to receive assistance, please visit the “Parents & Students” section of the USD 368 website or contact USD 368 nursing staff or social workers at any building.
CRISIS DRILLS
Paola Middle School
Email: amy_wright@usd368.org
Website: http://www.usd368.org/vnews/display.v/SEC/Paola%20Middle
Location: 1115 East 303rd Street, Paola, KS, USA
Phone: 913-294-8030