Spartan Herald March 2018
Building Community Empowering Learners Inspiring Creativity
SMS PRIDE Everyday!
Hello Schmucker Families,
February was a very busy month here at Schmucker! Students were working hard and showing SMS PRIDE everyday. Here are some highlights of the month:
Show Respect: Our sixth grade students spent a Wednesday morning with some special Googliers, Google experts, to learn more about online safety. Our Google guests spent much of the presentation discussing how students can show respect online. Students were offered tools and strategies to keep themselves and others safe online. We also have two events coming up at Schmucker about online safety. These include the viewing of Screenagers and the presentation sponsored by the P-H-M Forum. See more details below about these two events.
Make a Difference: In February our NJHS reached out to our whole school community through Random Acts of Kindness. When students opened their lockers on February 14th, all students found an encouraging note and a pencil. Our NJHS students also expanded their kindness to each staff member by thanking them for their efforts with another Random Act of Kindness.
Set the Bar High: ISTEP is in full swing and our students are working hard! Students came with an attitude of confidence and were prepared with charged Chromebooks. I am confident testing will continue to go well until the testing window closes next week. This is their time to show off all their learning!
As I am in classrooms and in the hallways, I am so proud of our Spartans. They are always striving to be better and they clearly show SMS Pride!
With your child in mind,
Lavon Dean-Null
Principal
ChromeBook Care
Attention Schmucker Parents,
Our Technology Department has asked that I take a few minutes to outline some key information in reference to Chromebooks. As you all know, going to one-to-one has brought our students into the forefront of public education. However, with that comes new responsibilities for our teachers, students and staff. Due, in large part, to the number of damaged units and the overall number of insurance claims filed here at S.M.S., we need parents to assist children and the P-H-M Corporation with educating our young people about the correct way to care for their Chromebook.
Equipment:
Ownership: PHM retains sole right of possession of the Chromebook and grants permission to the Student to use the Chromebook according to the guidelines set forth in this document. Moreover, PHM administrative staff retains the right to collect and/or inspect the Chromebook at any time, including via electronic remote access; and to alter, add, or delete installed software or hardware.
Substitution of Equipment: In the event the Chromebook is inoperable, PHM has a limited number of spares for use while the Chromebook is repaired or replaced. This agreement remains in effect for such a substitute. The Student may NOT opt to keep a Chromebook or to avoid using the Chromebook due to loss or damage.
Damage or Loss of Equipment:
Responsibility for Damage: The student is responsible for maintaining a 100% working Chromebook at all times. The student shall use reasonable care to ensure that the Chromebook is not damaged. Refer to the Standards for Proper Chromebook Care below, for a description of expected care. The student and parent will be responsible for all damage, including the cost of a replacement Chromebook, caused by misuse or negligence of the Student that is not covered by the warranty.
Responsibility for Loss: In the event the Chromebook is lost or stolen, the Student and Parent will be billed the full cost of replacement.
Actions Required in the Event of Damage or Loss: Damaged and/or lost Chromebooks must be reported immediately to the Student Helpdesk. If the Chromebook is stolen or vandalized while not at PHM or at a PHM sponsored event, the Parent shall file a police report.
Helpful Hints:
Protective cases are available for purchase in the IMC for a one time fee of $20.00. These cases are designed to protect Chromebooks for everyday wear and tear.
Speak with your children about not walking through the halls while playing on their Chromebooks. Our halls are crowded and students need to be alert at all times.
Charging your Chromebook in safe area that does not allow for the chords to tripped over or pulled out will help to save the Chromebook from additional damage.
Random Acts of Kindness
Imagine our surprise this week when, out of the blue, NJHS students visited each administrator with a card and gift as a random act of kindness. We were so touched, as well as proud, of our students' generosity. This is prompting us to encourage you, as a family, to embrace the idea of Random Acts of Kindness. Officially, the week is celebrated in February, but isn't it a concept we could brace throughout the year? You might be interested to know that research has been conducted, and pilot programs implemented, and the results were conclusive: teaching kindness makes a difference. Students' behavior is better, discipline rates decrease, students are more accepting of each other, conflicts are decreased, and relationships are stronger. (www.randomactsofkindness.org) Doesn't that sound like the kind of world we want for our children? Here are some idea osf random acts of kindess you can do together as a family (taken from www.shakentogetherlife.com):
- Leave a RedBox code or a pack of microwave popcorn at the RedBox machine
- Give a few dollars for whatever school club, cub scout pack, sports organization, etc. is outside of the grocery store
- Load groceries for an elderly person or parent with small children
- Pay for the coffee or meal behind you in the drive through line.
- Leave coupons tucked next to the product in a grocery store.
Above all - always choose kindess.
Important Dates
March 1 - PTO Meeting
March 5 & 6 - ISTEP Testing
March 19-22- Art Show
March 30 - Recess Day (No School)
Check out all events on our Website calendar: SMS Calendar
PLEASE READ OUR NOVEMBER PTO NEWSLETTER BELOW:
Schmucker Scrip Program
Scrip is a national fundraising program for non-profit organizations. Over 30,000 different organizations use Scrip; the district PTO’s have been running this program for years.
For more information click here for more details on our SMS website.
Note from the Counselors!
You can view a tutorial at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OeSNq672whY
Student Service Office Supports
Screenagers
Many families face the challenge of balancing and monitoring social media and video games for their children. Balancing these modern day activities in the lives of children with family, school, and their own safety and well being can be challenging.
The Schmucker, Discovery and Grissom Parent Teacher Organizations have partnered to bring families some helpful insight by presenting the movie, “Screenagers”. This award-winning film not only takes a closer look at the concerns of the digital age and it’s effects on families, but also offers solutions.
The movie screening will take place at Schmucker Middle School on Monday, March 19, 2018, at 6:30 p.m. It is open to all P-H-M parents of students in grades 5-8. This presentation is geared towards parents.
Schmucker will also be hosting the P-H-M Forum-Sponsored Parent Internet Safety meeting on Thursday, March 8, 2018, 7-8:30 p.m. This event is open to all P-H-M parents of students in all grades. This presentation is appropriate for parents and high school students (not students younger than the ninth grade).
21st century scholars
Free $$ for college!
The 21st Century Scholars program is need-based assistance which will help students have the ability to go to college who otherwise may not be able to afford it. The program can save you and your family thousands of dollars on higher education past high school, as well as connect you and your student to other great resources.
The deadline for this opportunity to enroll is JUNE 30 of a student's 8th grade year. Once this date has passed, students cannot enroll while at the high school. Please take the time to visit http://scholars.in.gov/parents/enroll/ to learn more about the program and enroll your student right away before this opportunity is no longer available. Email or call your child's school counselor if you have further questions.
Computer Science for Innovators & Makers
During 4th quarter this year we are offering Schmucker students the opportunity to participate in a new zero-hour class, Computer Science for Innovators and Makers. In this class students will gain experience programming for the physical world by blending hardware design and software development. Students will design and develop a physical computing device and plan and develop code for microcontrollers that bring their physical designs to life. Meetings will take place Monday- Friday 8-8:50am daily beginning Monday, March 26 continuing through the remainder of the school year. Participants must arrange their own transportation as none will be provided by PHM. Interested students should pick-up a sign-up form from the main office. Sign-up forms are due in the main office by Friday, March 16.
Robotic News!
On Saturday, March 10, Schmucker's SpartanBots Team 775, will travel to the Indiana VEX Robotics State Championship at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. All four SpartanBots teams, 775S, 775X, 775Y, and 775Z, will compete with 30 other teams from around the state for a chance to move on to the VEX Robotics World Championships in April. Throughout the season teams have worked hard to solve the engineering challenges of this year's game, "In the Zone," and plan, construct, and program their robots. Information for students that are interested in being part of the SpartanBots for next season will be available in April.
We also want to say a special "Thank You" to our Schmucker PTO. They have offered to sponsor our team at State!
SMS Art Show
Choir News
ISSMA-Saturday, February 3, 2018, was a clean sweep Gold Medal day for the vocal solo and ensemble students competing in the ISSMA contest held at Clay High School. Alyssa Del Rio, Ava Pizarek, Thurston Micinski, and Trae Harris received a Gold medal for their vocal solos. Julia Nurenberg received a perfect score Gold for her vocal solo. Olivia Metcalfe, Lauryn Trowbridge, Brianna Horvath, Lila Schulte, Lydia Gingrich, and Sydney Green received a Gold medal for their vocal ensemble. Ella Robertson, Eme Michelle, Avery Pratt, and Mackenzie Holland received a perfect score Gold medal for their vocal ensemble. Several students participated in the piano solo portion of solo and ensemble contest as well. Sarai Jean-Pierre received a Silver medal for her piano solo. Alex Wagler, Moriah Knuth, and Grace Wang received a Gold medal for their piano solos. We are very proud of all of you! Mrs. Hipsher and Mrs. Secaur would like to congratulate all of these music students for their outstanding work at contest.
Circle the State With Song-Eighteen music students from Schmucker participated in Circle the State With Song at Goshen College on Saturday, February 24. Under the direction of Penn Choir Director Andrew Nemeth, over 150 students spent the day rehearsing and then performed in a concert for the community at 4:30pm. Schmucker's baritones were Ian Allen, Chase DeVincent, Carson Flynn, Ricky Grey, Trae Harris, Reilly Schramski, and Drew Thompson. Our altos were Lucy Davidson, Chris Gomez, Carolyn Gutierrez, Olivia Metcalfe, and Julia Nuremberg. Singing soprano were Lyndsey Benak, Shelby Broskey, Ava Dashner, Raven Neidlinger, Ella Robertson, and Ella Taylor. Mrs. Hipsher and Mrs. Secaur are very proud of these students for their hard work and dedication. You are amazing!
March Choral Concerts-Mrs. Hipsher’s 2nd period men and the 8th grade ensemble choirs will perform at 6:00 PM in the Cafetorium on Thursday, March 15. Admission is $1.00 per person, and parking is available in all lots with Doors A and I opening at 5:30 PM. -Mrs. Secaur’s choirs will perform Thursday, March 22 in the Cafetorium. The 6th grade choirs will perform at 6:00 PM and the 7th grade Ladies will perform at 7:00 PM. Admission is $1.00 per person. Parking for the 6:00 performance is in the west lot and parking for the 7:00 performance is in the east lot. Please contact your child's choir teacher with any questions.
Eighth Grade Musical-Mrs. Hipsher’s 8th grade musical choir has been hard at work preparing their musical, “Sleepy Hollow”. This musical was chosen by the students, directed by the students, prepared by the students, and performed by the students. Every student has played a role in creating what will be seen on stage. “Sleepy Hollow will be presented at 6:00 PM on Monday, March 12. Door A will be open to the public at 5:00 PM. The cafeteria will be open for seating at 5:30 PM. The performance will begin at 6:00 PM, and usually takes between 60 and 80 minutes. Reserved seating is not available. These are all royalty musicals: therefore, the admission charge is $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for students (high school age and younger). Admission is complimentary to children Kindergarten age and younger. We look forward to seeing you!
Penn High School Musical- 6th Grade SMS Choir student Chris Gomez will be playing the role of Young Shrek in the production of SHREK THE MUSICAL on March 2, 3 & 4. Tickets are on sale at www.ticketracker.com and they are selling quickly! Mrs. Hipsher and Mrs. Secaur are so proud to have Chris representing SMS at the high school!
Internet Safety
On Thursday, March 8, P-H-M’s Forum is sponsoring a districtwide parent meeting on Internet Safety.
According to the Pew Research Center, 94% of teens use their cell phone for their online activity and 71% use more than one social media site.
What do you need to know as parents and guardians to keep them safe online when they’re at home?
Hear from cybercrime and internet safety expert St. Joseph County Police Department’s Officer Eric Tamashasky on Thursday, March 8, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m., in the cafeteria of Schmucker Middle School (56045 Bittersweet Road, Mishawaka).
This is a districtwide event sponsored by the P-H-M Forum parent group and is open to all P-H-M parents. Because of the nature of Offc. Tamashasky’s presentation concerning the online dangers parents need to be aware of, this event is not suitable for students below 9th grade. Spread the word to other P-H-M parents about this informational opportunity.
Google’s Online Safety Roadshow makes a stop at SMS
Google and U.S. Rep. Jackie Walorski (R, D-2) visited Schmucker Middle School as part of Google’s Online Safety Roadshow: How to Be Internet Awesome--an online safety assembly developed by Google for middle school students.
Congresswoman Walorski participated in the presentation kicking off the assembly with Penn-Harris-Madison Superintendent Dr. Jerry Thacker and Schmucker Principal Lavon Dean-Null. A group of sixth grade Schmucker students participated in the interactive exercise.
The 45 minute learning opportunity was led by two Google employees. The program focused on five tips for staying safe and being smart online covering topics such as sharing with care, setting strong passwords, using settings on different websites and apps, identifying online scams, and being kind online.
For more tips about how to keep yourself and your family safe online, please visit: g.co/beinternetawesome.
Penn's Summer 2018 PE Classes
Information about Penn's Summer 2018 Physical Education lottery for current 8th graders (next year's Freshman class) is posted on our Schmucker website. Here is the direct link:
8TH GRADE - WASHINGTON, D.C. TRIP
Schumcker 8th grade students attending the
Washington , D. C. field trip from May 29 to June 2nd:
Final payment is due Thursday, March 29, 2018. Make payment to hemispheretravel.com
Athletics
The girls basketball teams and the wrestling team will be finishing their regular seasons soon and will be playing in the Big 11 Tournaments very soon. If you have not had a chance to get out and see our Spartan teams, please plan to do so very soon! The Big 11 girls basketball tournament begins on Monday, March 5th with our girls teams hosting North Wood. Our wrestling team will participate in the Big 11 Finals on Saturday, March 3rd at John Young Middle School. Come out and support our Spartans teams to tournament victories!!!
Our boys and girls track teams will be starting next Month. If you have a 7th or 8th grade son or daughter interested in participating in track, make sure they have their physical before the first practice. It should be an exciting spring for our track teams. Please plan on supporting our Spartan track teams!
Intramurals
SMS Girls Track 2018
Practices will be held daily in the mornings at 7:00 AM. Track meets are run on Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout the month of April. Track season is a short season - starting at the end of March and ending the first week of May.
Girls will receive a packet of information at the meeting on March 21 discussing attendance, grades and participation at meets. A sign up sheet will be available in the main office starting on Friday, March 2 and girls can receive a practice schedule from Coach Foster starting that Friday.
Because it is such a short season, it is imperative that girls have a current school physical on file in the main office PRIOR to March 21. No girl can participate in anything without the physical.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact Coach Foster lfoster@phm.k12.in.us
SMS Clubs
Writing Club is meeting every Thursday in Ms. Fiegel's room #211 after school until 5:15.
Film Club is meeting every Tuesday in Ms. Turpins's room #309 after school until 5:15.
WSMS
WSMS is recorded to Youtube ALMOST every day. (Technology!) If you would like to watch our daily announcements, check it out!
Here is the link to the channel if you want to publish it to parents.
Bakers Gonna Bake Camp
For more information: Click Here
EXPANDING YOUR HORIZONS
For more information: "Click Here"
SMS will pay for up to 30 girls to attend this conference. Please complete the online registration and email Mrs. Dean-Null when complete. Please select "My school is paying for me" on the online registration form.
SMS Silver Mile Fundraising Event:
How Your Child Can Connect to Schmucker Happenings
1. Each morning students produce a newscast on WSMS that highlight upcoming events.
2. Every Monday students are emailed a Student Newsletter. This publication includes the weekly menu, important dates like athletic events and clubs, and important announcements and reminders.
Consent To Publish student work and photographs
PHM requires schools to receive permission from parents to publish student photos and work. If you have not returned this document, please access the link below, print the document and return signed to school. We must receive this document from every student.
COMMUNITY EVENTS/ACTIVITIES
Check out the P-H-M website for an online listing of non-school events & activities agencies have asked us to share with P-H-M families:
Lunch Menus
Families Can Get help with Lunch & Textbook Fees
Student/Family Opportunities
Homework Requests
School Messenger
Protected by Raptor
Canvas
Canvas is a LMS (Learning Management System) that is used in PHM. Teachers can put content online for students, make announcements and provide assignments. All parents are enrolled in the Canvas course of their students as observers. As observers, you can see the content, but are not able to interact with it. Please access the links below to learn more.
To keep you organized, you can also download the Canvas app for your phone or tablet.
Student Hours
9:00am - First Bell
9:05am - Classes Begin
4:00pm - Dismissal
4:10pm - Bus Departure
Lavon Dean-Null
Email: ldean-null@phm.k12.in.us
Website: http://schmucker.phmschools.org/
Location: Schmucker Middle School, Bittersweet Road, Mishawaka, IN, United States
Phone: 574-259-5661
Twitter: @SMSSpartanPride