South Ocean Middle School
Welcome to the 2021-2022 School Year
Welcome Message
We have come a long way from where we were at the start of last school year. We are very much looking forward to starting the year off with students fully scheduled and in-person.
This newsletter, along with the mailing that you received at home will provide you with important updates in regards to the opening of school. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the main office at 631-687-6600.
I look forward to seeing all of our returning students and meeting all of our new students in the coming days. Until then, enjoy the remaining days of summer!
Dr. Piciullo
My Education Credo
- I believe that all students have unique potential.
- I believe that all students can learn, grow, and succeed.
- I believe that the collective staff efficacy in the school building has a positive impact on student outcomes.
- I believe that teachers are the most influential component to student learning, growth, and success.
- I believe that it is my responsibility to lead, train, and support teachers in their work with students and families.
- I believe that students learn best when; provided voice and choice, learn using multiple modalities, provided authentic learning experiences, and are given multiple opportunities to find success.
- I believe that curriculum should be culturally relevant and responsive to reflect the diverse background of our students.
- I believe that for students to cultivate their talents, skills, and unique potential, I must create an environment where all students feel safe, connected, and engaged in school.
- I believe that a strong home and school connection is important in supporting student learning.
- I believe it is my responsibility to model and practice lifelong learning and professional growth to stay current in best practices to support staff, students, and the school community.
- I believe it is important to work collaboratively with all stakeholders, welcome feedback, and regularly evaluate our programs to make recommendations for revision when necessary.
- Timothy J. Piciullo, Ed.D.
Opening Guidance and Protocols
- All students will be required to attend school onsite. There will be no remote option, except for mandated SCDOH quarantine/isolation orders or school closures.
- In order to provide an additional level of safety and reduce the number of mandated quarantines, masks will be required on busses and indoors regardless of vaccination status. Staff are encouraged to provide frequent mask breaks throughout the day.
- Staff and students who exhibit symptoms or test positive regardless of vaccination status must complete the Patchogue-Medford COVID-19 Submission Form and follow quarantine/isolation in accordance with SCDOH requirements.
- Students will return to the cafeterias for lunch and will be required to wear masks when entering the café, when ordering, and must resume mask wearing immediately following eating.
- Extracurricular clubs and activities will be offered and follow the same protocols that are in place during their regular school day.
Schedules
If you do not currently have a portal account you can sign up or here.
A hard copy of your child's schedule will also be provided to them on the first day of school.
Sixth Grade Orientation
Sixth grade students should report to their ELA classroom number for the orientation. All classroom numbers are listed on the schedules that are viewable on the parent and student portal.
Below is a PDF file of our virtual sixth grade orientation presentation.
Important Links and Information
In addition to the Code of Conduct which is included in the districtwide information packet we have revised our Rules and Consequences Document to include restorative practices.
Finally, we included a back to school program in our mailing, here is a digital copy.
Upcoming Events
Tuesday, August 31 - 6th Grade Orientation 2-3:30p.m.
Wednesday, September 1 - First Day of School
Tuesday, September 21 - PTA Meeting, 7p.m.
Friday, September 24 - PTA Fun Night, 6-8p.m.
Wednesday, September 29 - Back to School Night, 6:45 p.m (parents only)
October 18-22 - Spirit Week
Tuesday, October 19 - PTA Meeting, 7p.m.
Friday, October 22 - General Organization Harvest Dance, 6-8 p.m.
Monday, October 25 - Picture Day
Tuesday, October 26 - Picture Day
Tuesday, November 16 - Picture Make Up Day
Tuesday, November 16 - PTA Meeting, 7p.m.
Please refer to our district calendar located on our website here for updated calendar information, holidays and future events.
Fall Sports Start Date
Tips For a Successful School Year
- Attend school daily and arrive on time, ready for the day’s learning experience
- Complete all homework assignments given by teachers
- Read daily to develop a love for reading and to improve literacy skills
- Students share school experiences with parents/guardians so that they are aware of their child’s school life
- Students inform their parents/guardians if they need additional support in any area or subject
- Students understand that their parents/guardians expects them to succeed in school
Grade 8 Moving Up
Summer Academy iReady
Summer Academy Wellness
About Our School
Email: tpiciullo@pmschools.org
Website: pmschools.org
Location: Patchogue, NY, United States
Phone: 631-687-6600
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/southoceanms
Twitter: @southoceanMS