Parent Newsletter
May 13th - 17th
Happy Mother's Day
Finish Strong...
- A look at the week ahead
- Kai Fu Lee visits
- TVA Grant
- Meet our Team
- 2019 Device Roll Up
- Finishing Strong
- SECME Banquet
- Spring Open House is Thursday May 23rd
- Counselors Corner
Thanks for all that you do to support Jefferson Middle School,
Phil Cox, Principal
Chris Layton, Vice Principal
Jenifer Laurendine, Dean of Students
Spring Open House is May 23rd
Open House will be Thursday, May 23rd from 6:00 to 8:00. Please come if you want to hear about your student’s school year next year. Rising 5th grade will start at 6:00, and 6th through 8th grade will start at 7:00. All meetings will be at the Little Theater.
At 7 pm, the parents and students of rising 6th, 7th and 8th grade students will be welcomed to the Jefferson Performing Arts Center (Little Theater) for introductions of JMS staff. Upon conclusion of the introduction the various grade levels will be sent out to break out locations to learn more specifics about each grade level.
Finish the Year Strong
A Look at the Week Ahead
Monday-13
B day
Track South East Sectionals, Walker Valley HS, Cleveland, TN
Sack Pack Material Drive
JMS visits Glenwood Elementary
Environmental Club 2:45-4:00
Chorus 7/8 grade Spring Concert 7:00-JPAC
Tuesday-14
A day
Homework help for 5th/6th graders 7:00-7:30-Room 219 (Corrigan)
Sack Pack Material Drive
RTI ELA (Reading) Spring Screener
JMS visits Woodland Elementary
7th graders pick 2019-20 electives in PE Class with Mrs. Castle
Girls Basketball Tryouts 3:00-4:30
Track Practice 2:45-4:30
Homework help for 5th/6th graders 2:45-3:30-Room 319 (Martin)
Homework help for 7th/8th graders 2:45-3:30-Room 301 (Hondorf)
Football Scrimmage 6:00 @ Jacksboro Middle School
Band Spring Concert 6:30-ORHS Performing Arts Center
Wednesday-15
B day
Sack Pack Material Drive
RTI ELA (Written Expression) Spring Screener
7th graders pick 2019-20 electives in PE Class with Mrs. Castle
Band to Glenwood and Woodland Elementary 7:45 AM-12:30 PM
6th Grade Advanced Math Testing
Track Practice 12:45-2:30
Public Hearing and First Reading of FY’20 Budget 5:30-SAB
Thursday-16
A day
Sack Pack Material Drive
8th grade Girls Basketball Interest Meeting (ORHS) 7:15 JPAC
Homework help for 5th/6th graders 7:00-7:30-Room 219 (Corrigan)
4th Graders from Glenwood Elementary visits JMS
RTI Math Spring Screener
Homework help for 5th/6th graders 2:45-3:30-Room 319 (Martin)
Track Practice 2:45-4:30
Girls Basketball Tryouts 3:00-4:30
Cheer Parent Meeting 5:30-Cafeteria
Chorus 5/6 Grade Spring Concert 7:00-JPAC
Friday - 17
B day
Youth for Christ 7:00-JPAC
Sack Pack Material Drive
4th Graders from Woodland Elementary visits JMS
8th Grade JA Job Shadowing Experience-8:45-11:15 at RSCC
Author Kathleen Burkinshaw visits with
7th Grade Advanced Classes-2nd period-Library
Ms. Kala’s class to– Oak Ridge Marina 11:45-1:15
Track Practice 2:45-4:30
Saturday - 18
TMSAA State Track Meet Austin Peay University, Clarksville, TN
Sunday - 19
Free Athlete Physicals 2:30-4:00 at ORHS Wellness Corridor
Dr. Kai Fu Lee visits JMS
Dr. Lee's research into AI and his journey into understanding how to utilize technology has been at the forefront for the past three decades. He has worked for Microsoft, Apple, Google etc. and currently he runs a venture capitalist firm from Beijing that works to help over 300 company start ups with over $ 2 billion dollars in investments. He even commented as to how his company helped finance the company who make Dot and Dash, which are currently in our Makerspace. The video below from 1992 is from an appearance where Dr. Lee visited with Joan Lunden to introduce one of the first concepts of AI, better known as Casper. This first attempt in AI was the precursor for today's Siri.
Meet Our Team
Born and raised in Alabama. Roll Tide! Worked for a Birmingham Trust National Bank then BellSouth. Soon after my daughter was born, I became a stay at home mom. Once Meagan started school, I became involved in the PTO and transitioned back into the work force first at Pittman Middle School then to Hueytown High School in Alabama. My daughter moved to Knoxville and received her Master’s Degree from the University of Tennessee. She settled here and is an Assistance Professor at Pellissippi State Community College. I started applying for positions in and around Knoxville. I put it all in God’s hands. I was on my way here to help Meagan and her husband move into their first home when I received a call from Jefferson Middle School. I was so surprised. Mr. Cox ask me to come in for an interview, and the rest is history. God opened the door and I walked through it. I am so happy to be here and I really enjoy working with such an amazing group of people. Everyone is so welcoming and I feel like one of the family. I am truly grateful.
My best advice for students is to enjoy each stage in your life. Find friends that like doing the same things you do. Your friends are a reflection of you. Learning should be fun and knowledge is power.
In my spare time I love spending time with family, hanging out with friends, shopping, playing with my dog, and reading.
Mr. Reed
When I was in middle school and high school I struggled academically as a student because I could not stay focused. Soon i became discouraged and intimidated by school work. Even after struggling to graduate high school I still wanted to pursue a college degree so I entered Roane State Community College to study fire science. This led me to enlist in the TN Air National Guard so I could go through U.S. Air Force Firefighting Training which was considered to be the best in the world. It was during my Air Force training that I learned to study and be disciplined. I spent twenty-four years in the fire service and attained the rank of captain before I was called into the ministry. During my ministry I have pastored, what started as small churches, so I needed to supplement my income and that led me to JMS as a substitute teacher. I then worked one year at Secret City Academy before coming to JMS.
As a teacher assistant in Special Education I hope to help students who have given up on themselves. I am also thankful to have the opportunity to work alongside professionals that enhance a growth mindset.
During my time in the fire service and in ministry I have continued my education and hold a Master’s Degree in Pastoral Theology and have just completed my first class toward a Doctorate in Bible Exposition.
My advice to students would be to put forth effort and not be afraid to ask for help when needed. I remember being in school and afraid to ask questions which resulted in failure. My advice would be to build relationships with teachers because they want to help you.
In my spare time I enjoy following Tennessee Vols football and basketball, doing missions work in Central America, spending time with my wife, family, and especially grandchildren.
Ms. Shannon
Growing up in Oak Ridge, and attending such an excellent school system, gave me a great appreciation for education. I admired so many teachers during my time as a student that I wanted to give back. When the opportunity arose, I quickly decided that Jefferson was the place for me. This is my 13th year at JMS, and I love working with such a great staff. When I am not working, I enjoy cooking, spending time at our frequent, LARGE family gatherings (last count-64—whew!), and being outdoors with my grand-daughter, Kynsley.
The best advice I can give to students is to always do your best. If you don’t understand something, or you have a question, raise your hand. Don’t give up when you feel overwhelmed. When I was in middle school, my biggest challenge was raising my hand and asking for help. It was Coach Fillauer who made me realize that teachers want to help every student be successful. He always encouraged me to put forth my best effort, be assertive, and ask questions if I was uncertain.
I hope all students know that we are here to assist and support them to be life-long learners, and to become the best version of himself/herself. JMS strongly supports not only the child in need, but the whole family as well. I am so grateful to be a part of a school that truly cares about who we serve.
Ms. Davis
My road to JMS was a winding one. After receiving my Bachelors’ degree in Psychology from Rockford College in Illinois, I worked in Broadcasting, Travel, Special Events, and College Admissions. When our youngest started at Robertsville, I came to work at Jefferson, even though our children thought that I was joining the “Dark Side” While I truly enjoy working with everyone here, outside of work, you can find me at Norris Lake enjoying water sports, reading on the dock, and spending time with family and friends. My best advice to students is to stretch yourself and get involved in many different kinds of activities, which will lead to a lifetime of learning and enjoyment.
2019 - 2020 Laptop Sign Ups
User Agreements for 2019 - 2020 school year are now on Skyward
It's hard to believe, but it's that time of year again to start the 2019 - 2020 Technology User Agreement forms for the Access OR program. Each year parents are required to fill out the forms online through the Skyward portal. Below you will see a step by step video that helps guide you through the online process.
Rising 9th grade students (Current 8th grade students) Stylus sign up for ORHS
We are very excited to welcome the Class of 2023 to Oak Ridge High School next year!! As your family prepares for this transition, the high school invites everyone to fill out their online computer distribution form via the parent Skyward account. Moving to the high school, you will find an additional item regarding the stylus on your Technology User Agreement. We felt the importance of sharing how heavily this instrument is used at ORHS, particularly in the math and sciences. There will be an opportunity to check the permission box for your rising freshman to obtain a stylus when the computer is issued prior to the beginning of school. Our friends coming from Jefferson Middle School are largely accustomed to classroom sets being provided. Should you have any questions regarding this process, please do not hesitate to contact Mrs. Witick nwitick@ortn.edu or Mrs. Thompson sathompson@ortn.edu
We look forward to welcoming our RISING FRESHMAN TO ORHS - EQUIPPED AND READY TO LEARN!
SECME celebrates another great year
SECME Banquet was a great success
TVA Grant
A unique Aedes related mosquito-borne disease, La Crosse Encephalitis (LACE), is the leading pediatric-related arbovirus in the continental United States. LACE is endemic to southern Appalachia, where approximately 75% of all cases in the United States now occur.
The funds from this grant will put GPS enabled devices in student hands and engage students in the agricultural fields of entomology and geospatial sciences. Students will increase surveillance and decrease response times to pathogens that put human and animal health and food security at risk.
Entomology and geospatial skills are not typically taught in school. Thus, there is a critical need to increase the awareness of agricultural sciences and to develop students with the desire to pursue entomology and geospatial technologies as career pathways. Additionally, students will report their field data to the University of Tennessee Agriculture Institute. The UTAI will then report to the students the mosquito types so they can continue their project.
Dream it, Do it Competition
PTO News
8th Grade Graduation Luncheon: On Wednesday, May 29, the 8th grade classes will enjoy a special graduation luncheon in the cafeteria. Catered food will be served and we’ll be raffling off some fun prizes. A special thank you to Amy O’Brien and Beth Palmer for organizing this luncheon!
The PTO would like to congratulate all 8th grade students for successfully completing middle school and wish you all the best on your new adventure in high school!
PTO Elections: PTO elections will be held at the May 28 meeting. We have openings for President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer. The PTO organizes events throughout the school year including an annual fundraiser drive, teacher luncheons and end of the year luncheon for 8th graders. We could not do all of this without parent support and involvement. If you are interested in running for one of these positions or for more information as to what they entail, please contact Sandy Pelletier sandy@issi.net.
Committee Co-Chair Positions Available: If a full board position is not the right fit for you, but you would still like to get involved, why not consider being a PTO committee co-chair next school year? Several of our committee chairs will be moving up to the high school after next school year so they would like to start training someone new to take over as committee chair. We will have many co-chair positions available: Fall Fundraiser, Teacher Luncheons and 8th Grade Party.
Fundraiser Spotlight: Are you curious about how your fundraiser dollars are being used? Each week, the PTO section of this newsletter will feature a different department or classroom from JMS that was helped with money from our annual direct drive fundraiser! This week the spotlight is on Mr. Beard’s Science classes. One of the most fascinating science activities this year was animal dissections. With dissection frogs provided by the PTO, Mr. Beard’s classes were able to get hands on experience with dissection while learning about the internal anatomy of the frog. Thank you JMS families!
If you have questions about how you can get involved with PTO at JMS, please contact Sandy Pelletier sandy@issi.net
Finish Strong
Step 1: Don't take ZERO for an answer
For many students, lack of success and low grades is often attributed to lack of submission. Don't let non submission of work be the reason you struggle. FAIL can be seen as a "First Attempt In Learning". We have often Failed and we will often FAIL in our lives whether it be the first time you tried to ride a bike, speak, throw a baseball or solve a quadratic equation. The key is to make the attempt, learn from your mistakes and plan on how to grow moving forward.
Step 2: You CAN achieve, you just have to work hard and believe
The key to having a growth mindset begins with one simple idea, you are capable of learning and value the process of lifelong learning. The idea that some people can do some things and others can't or the belief that you just aren't "a math person" or "won't ever understand how to write well" is a fixed mindset. Use tools, resources and experts to help build your skills. There is a lot of power in the word YET! You may not be great at something YET, but with time, effort, practice, revision and work you can be.
Step 3: We have spent a lot of time talking about the power of GRIT! The idea that working hard over long periods of time to achieve and reach a goal. Here is a great example of being able to practice GRIT. You have four weeks to give your absolute best. Take note of your grade at midterm and see where you are with your grade. Set a new goal and work hard for four weeks to reach that goal. It may be you have a 99% and you work to keep it or even have a 100%. It may be you have a 40% and you work hard to make it a 75% but find a goal, dig in for four weeks, limit distractions and submit all of your assignments, show you can be GRITTY!
Avoiding the Summer Slide
1. Read and find books you enjoy
One critical element to the summer slide can be seen through reading loss. Taking time each and every day to read for 20 minutes can make a dramatic difference for students. Challenge your child to read 20 minutes, but give them the option to choose books they enjoy. Often a major struggle for students when it comes to reading is they feel confined to academic focused books. To help with the Summer Slide, give it a chance by encouraging students to read books about topics or characters they enjoy.
2. Get outside and explore
In the age of internet, cell phones, social media etc. it can be challenging to get students to spend time outside. Challenge your student to put down the cell phone or video games and be physically active outside. Studies have shown that physical activity and being outside can help students development.
3. Spend time learning, make this a daily goal
Our students have access to information 24/7 and from countless resources. Help students focus by challenging them to learn something productive each and every day.
Counselors Corner
Andrew Martin, Professional Research Fellow, at the University of Sydney found that across a student’s lifetime, their world will change and change again. They’re likely to see industry reshaped, medical advancements, and huge changes to technology.
In their own life too, they will begin school, transition to further education or work, move out of home, begin or end relationships, maybe have children, and retire from work.
To navigate this ever-shifting world, young people will need to be adaptable. But is this something you can teach? And what kind of difference can being more adaptable make?
The times they are a changin’
Whereas much research and discussion has focused on young people’s resilience, very little has focused on their ability to adapt. Resilience refers to individuals’ capacity to deal with adversity, while adaptability refers to their capacity to respond to uncertainty, change, and novelty.
In Martin’s research that was published in the Journal of Educational Psychology, we looked at the adaptability of 969 high school students from nine Australian secondary schools. Adaptability was assessed through a series of questions in a survey. These questions revolved around uncertain or changing situations and asked students to rate how effective they were in responding to those situations.
He found there are three parts to adaptability: behavioral, cognitive, and emotional.
The behavioral part involves adjusting one’s actions or behavior in response to uncertainty and novelty, the cognitive involves adjusting one’s thinking and the emotional involves adjusting one’s positive and negative emotions.
He found that young people who are more adaptable were more likely to participate in class, enjoy school, be more satisfied with life, have higher self-esteem, and have a more concrete sense of meaning and purpose in life. In addition, we included a measure of resilience in the study and found that adaptability was a better predictor of these outcomes than resilience.
The effects of adaptability also went beyond any effects of personality and prior achievement – two factors also included in the study. Adaptability, therefore, emerged as a potent factor in academic and non-academic outcomes.
Teaching adaptability
The results of the study have implications across the school community – for teachers, school psychologists and for parents and caregivers – and for the advice we give students.
But how can we help students become more adaptable?
At school, students will often be faced with changing lessons, a different teacher, new work groups, new academic skills and tasks, fluid social group dynamics, new sporting or creative challenges – and so on.
One advantage of unpacking adaptability into its three components (behavioral, cognitive, emotional) is that advice and guidance can be developed in specific and concrete ways.
When it comes to students behavior for example, we can encourage students to seek out new or more information or take a different course of action when faced with a new situation. This can be as simple as asking a teacher for some good reading on a new topic or re-organizing their study timetable based on a test announced that day.
Even just something as simple as thinking about the opportunities a new situation might create or not assuming that change is a bad or undesirable thing can make a big difference.
Students can also be encouraged to learn to minimize disappointment and maximize enjoyment when circumstances change. Or indeed, keep a level head when in a winning position.
There might also be opportunities to explicitly draw students’ attention to some new tasks as they arise and guide them through the behaviors, thoughts and emotions essential to succeed on those tasks. For example, as students make the transition from one year group to another, or embark on a new subject, teachers may identify ways students can adjust their behaviors (such as increasing effort, asking for help), control their thinking (challenging pessimism, self-doubt), and manage their emotions (keeping fear or anxiety in check).
Like most skills, young people greatly benefit from clear and direct guidance from competent and caring adults.
Tomorrow’s opportunities
Change, uncertainty, variability, transition and novelty are a reality of life. The extent to which young people effectively respond to this reality will have a significant bearing on their life course – beyond the influence of other important factors such as resilience and personality.
Encouragingly, research and practice show that young people can successfully adjust their behavior, thought, and emotion – with some at-risk or underachieving youth perhaps requiring more intensive and sustained support to do this. Young people can be taught how to be more adaptable, and then in turn better embrace the opportunities of their ever-changing world.
What are Resilience and Adaptability Skills