Bowman Brag
Spring 2016 Edition
Letter from the Principal:
The winter, if that is what we actually had, is coming to an end. Spring is in the air. With the arrival of spring we also have the arrival MAP Testing, STAAR Prep, ASAP, 212 and of course SPRING BREAK. To parents of 8th graders be on the lookout for your child’s 4 year planning meeting date. Please try to attend your student’s meeting, as we will planning for their high school careers.
Spring can also mean varying weather. As the saying goes, if you don’t like the weather in Texas, wait a minute it will change. One day it may be 80 degrees and the following day, we can’t get out of the 40’s. Please remember that we do walk to the cafeteria each day. Please make sure that your student is dressed appropriately for the weather each day. Spring can also bring with it severe weather. We will be practicing severe weather drills throughout the spring here at the “Bow”. While on the topic of severe weather this a great time to remind you to update your contact information in parent portal. Any weather related news will first be broadcast through school messenger so it is important those numbers are correct.
One final reminder, Open House is early this year. We look forward to seeing many of you Monday, February 29th. As always feel free to contact the office at any time for questions you might have.
Thank you
Kristopher Vernon
Principal
Bowman Middle School
469-752-4810
Letter from the PTA President:
Thank you to the parents, staff, teachers, and students for supporting the PTA Membership Drive, School Supplies Sales, Fall Book Fair, Painless Dinners, and Box Top Contest. With all your help, the PTA has gotten off to a great start.
Here are some upcoming events this Spring that will need your support: Silent Auction, Spring Social, Box Top Contest and Teachers Appreciation. If you are interested in volunteering for any events please contact me at <chris_tien@yahoo.com>.
The PTA is looking for a few good members for the 2016-2017 PTA Board. Please contact Suzy Christensen <suzychristensen72@gmail.com> if you are interested.
Thanks again for your making continued support. Please contact me with any questions.
Chris Tien
President, Bowman MS PTA
214-289-8436
6th Grade Updates
Sixth grade Language Arts
Sixth grade Language Arts is up and running since our return from Winter Break.
Students are completing the varied writing activities associated with the novel
Seedfolks, and they will continue to focus upon poetry utilizing a story told
in increasingly personal poems. Students have also been exposed to a variety of text
structures through our analysis of expository texts. In our current unit your child will also
have the choice of novels to read and will work in a small group setting to discuss
the structure and design of the novel. Students recently completed the Winter
Map testing in both Reading and Language Usage. In addition, Bowman is again
offering our 212 and ASAP programs. Your child should have brought home
his/her progress report for the 4th grading period by now. Please ensure that if
tutorials are necessary your child will be able to attend either in the morning
or afternoon.
6th Honors Math Update!
Welcome to the second semester! We almost have 7th graders – can you believe it????
In honors math this semester, we started our semester by finishing our previous unit on writing expressions and equations as well as solving one-step equations. We are currently working with negative numbers. We will follow that up with data distributions and learning about different graphs (stem and leaf, box and whisker, and dot plots) and a small unit on financial literacy. Be on the look-out for some STAAR review packets – those will be starting soon so we are prepared for our 6th grade STAAR in May.
I am available for tutorials every morning (except some Thursdays) and afternoon (except Fridays). Please encourage your child to come to get help when they do not understand the material. If your child is absent, please encourage them to come to math before school so they are not behind when they come to class.
Don’t hesitate to contact me with questions or concerns.
Gina Skinner
7th Grade Updates
Honors Math 7
In Honors Math 7, we are just about to complete our last unit on linear relationships. We will then turn our attention to surface area and volume and then on to percentages and finances. Every week, your child will bring home a practice sheet to review material learned previously in the year. If your child is struggling with this practice sheet or the material that we are learning in class, please send them into tutorials for help. My tutorial hours are Monday-Wednesday, Friday 7:50-8:20 and Monday-Thursday 3:30-4:00. Many students find that tutorials are very helpful in learning their math.
Kerrie Whitson
7th Grade Honors Math and & 7th Grade AVID
Bowman Middle School
@AVID_Raiders
469-752-4978
Tutorials:
Monday-Wednesday, Friday: 7:50-8:20
Monday-Thursdsay: 3:30-4:00
Math 7
In Math 7, we are just about ready to complete our Simply Similar unit. We will then begin our Geometry Unit which will focus on surface area and volume. Every Thursday, your child will bring home a practice sheet to review material learned previously in the year. It is due the following Thursday. If your child is struggling with this practice sheet or the material that we are learning in class, please send them into tutorials for help. Many students find that tutorials are very helpful in learning their math.
In addition please make sure your child is working on Think Through Math (TTM) every day. TTM is a wonderful tool to fill in gaps and review previous information. The Modules are teacher created and cover material that has already been taught. TTM also offers free online help! See login information below. TTM can be done on any device that can connect to the internet. We also have computers in every classroom and the library in which the students can use before or after school.
Student Login Procedures for TTM
- From Chrome, Firefox or Safari, go to https://clever.com/in/pisd.
- Click Log in with Active Directory.
- Login to the program.
Student Username: Network Login (How I log in to the computer at school.)
Student Password: Network Password (The password I use at school.)
- Click the TTM button to start the program.
- The Think Through Math program opens to the student dashboard.
Mrs. Potts’ Tutorials
Monday-Wednesday 7:50-8:20 and 3:30 – 4:00
Thursdays 3:30 - 4:30
Mr. Fernandez’s Tutorials
Monday-Wednesday 7:50-8:20 and 3:30 – 4:00
Thursdays 3:30 - 4:00
Texas History
We hope your holiday break was restful and joyful. Texas History is off to a great start! This semester we will use the Myhomework app for electronic agendas. Parents please reference this if you have any questions regarding assignments or tests. Myhomework app is a great resource for both you and your student. We will spend the next couple months learning about the Mexican American War, Civil War, Reconstruction era, Frontier Wars, the Buffalo Soldiers, and major disasters that hit Texas. This semester our essays will be document based. As a reminder, Mondays continue to be our tutorial day but we are here every morning (except Thursdays) to help. Happy Texas Independence Day (March 2nd)!
- Ms. Korpal & Coach Solis
8th Grade Updates
8th Grade Science
This semester our classes will be learning about the following units: Energy & Natural Resources, Atmosphere & Weather, Rock Processes & Weathering, and Plate Movement & Topography.
Students will take the Science STAAR test on May 11. This test will cover concepts from 6th, 7th, and 8th grade science. Preparations have already begun to review some of this content and make sure students are as prepared as possible for this testing.
We really care about the success of all of our students! We are available for tutorials before and after school every day. Let’s work together to finish the year strong!
Amanda Bachmeyer
Dan Mitchell
Math 8
In Math 8, we are wrapping up our weeks-long study of linear equations. Students have learned how to write equations from graphs, word problems, and data tables. We will now turn our attention to systems of equations, trend line analysis, surface area and volumes, and real-world finance. As always, if your child is struggling with the material, please send them to our tutorials. Students get extra time and focused attention on topics that give them difficulty. Teachers are typically available for tutorials both before (7:50-8:20) and after (3:30-4:00) school. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
Megan Britt
Anna Lisa DeMetsenaere
Rich Lesky
Gina Skinner
Honors Algebra I
In Honors Algebra I we are currently in our “Exponential Relationships” unit which focuses on simplifying expressions using laws of exponents, exploring patterns of geometric sequences, and expressing exponential functions in multiple ways. Students can access an interactive version of the student textbook at www.my.hrw.com where they watch video tutorials and receive extra practice with immediate feedback. Any students who require additional help are encouraged to attend tutorials with me before or after school. My tutorial hours are Monday-Wednesday and Friday 7:50-8:20 and Monday-Thursday 3:30-4:00.
Anna Lisa DeMetsenaere
Gateway To Technology
Gateway is a pre-engineering program worth a semester of high school credit. It is open to 8th grade boys and girls who are interested in hands-on learning. So far this semester, we have learned that all engineers follow a design process. We will use this process to complete an original design project. Next, we will discover how to use a Computer Assisted Design (CAD) program to improve on our designs. We will finish the semester with learning to program in RobotC and using RobotC to automate the robots we design and build. For more information contact Cindy Williams at Cynthia.L.Williams@pisd.edu or 469-752-4895
FYI
Skills for Living & Careers
Sci-Tech Robotics Club
Indoor Soccer
BOWMAN FUN NIGHT
6th graders will party from 5:30pm until 7:00pm
7th & 8th graders will party from 7:30pm until 9:00pm.
There will be dancing, pizza, glow toys, door prizes, and a lot of fun.
We will need chaperones. Please email Dawn Finley at dawnfinley@yahoo.com if you are able to help. Your assistance is greatly appreciated for the success of this event for our children.
#BOWMANFUNNIGHT
Silent Auction and In-N-Out Fundraiser
Monday February 29th is Bowman Spring Open House, Silent Auction, and In-N-Out Burger Fundraiser.
Tickets for In-N-Out will be available to purchase week of Feb. 22-26 during all lunches.
· For $5 – a fresh burger cook from the In-N-Out food truck, choice of chips and a drink.
Here are some items that are in the Silent Auction:
· Reserved seating and autographed program for Bowman Theatre's Spring production
· Reserved front row seats for the 8th grade graduation
· Plano East HS, Williams HS Spirit Wear
· Portable tabletop grill from Home Depot
· Starbucks coffee, mugs, and gift card
· 2015-2016 Bowman Yearbook
(We still need more donations for the auction, please contact chris_tien@yahoo.com if you know a business that is willing to donate)
Please come out to support Bowman Middle School!
PTA Updates and Information
Bowman Middle School PTA
The Bowman Middle School PTA is proud to honor Ms. Kerrie Whitson and Ms. Michelle Dunn with Lifetime PTA membership. This award acknowledges all that Ms. Whitson and Ms. Dunn have done to support the Students, Faculty and Bowman Middle School. Please join us in celebrating these women!
Let’s talk PTA membership.
Parents – Teachers – Administration.
We all work together to support the Bowman students. Bringing in speakers to inspire, buying supplies and materials, sponsoring programs to benefit the kids are examples of what the
We, as a school community, have so much to be proud of!
Bowman Middle School is the only school in PISD to receive recognition as High Performing and High Progressed in the State of Texas! Last year Bowman was selected as a National School To Watch 2014!
Over the years our teachers & students have earned numerous awards and recognitions: Plano ISD Exemplary Writing Awards; National Spelling Bee (Student Finalist); Plano ISD Linguathon (1st and 2nd places); Teacher of the Year Finalists; National Science Foundation (Staff Award); National Science Foundation – SCOPE Grant Recipient; Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Teaching award; Plano Education Foundation Grant Winners; Texas Exemplary Performance Award; Texas School of Excellence; Texas Education Agency Outstanding Performance Recognition
Your PTA dues help the Students, Teachers & Administrators at Bowman Middle School realize their goals.
If you aren’t already a member of the PTA already please join online today:
Click the Green Log in button
Under Parents/Members/Students
Enter Organization Code: bowmanpta
Click the Online Store button
Choose the first item Single PTA Membership
Please follow the instructions from there.
We appreciate your support of the students, Bowman Middle School and the PTA!
Michelle Dunn
Bowman Middle School PTA
Membership Chairperson
GET INVOLVED
Bowman PTA needs your help. We are currently looking for volunteers to join the PTA board for the 2016-17 school year. A lot of our members this year have children moving on to 9th grade.
PTA at the middle is not nearly as big of a time commitments as it is in elementary school. However, we are an important component to the school culture. The PTA is able to support our wonderful Bowman staff. We also support our students with activities, programs and special rewards. PTA is a valuable partner with the administration and the community. Below is a list of our positions that need to be filled.
3rd VP over Budget and Finance
Secretary
Arts in Education
Book Fair
Council Delegate
Box Tops
Spirit Night
SAGE
Volunteers
Student Programs
Student Recognition
Please consider how you can help our school during the 2016-17 school year.
If you have any questions, please contact us!
Thanks from the nominating committee.
Suzy Christensen <suzychristensen72@gmail.com>
Dawn Hall
Carmencita Cava
Spirit Store
Parents please remember the Bowman Store sells supplies like pens, pencils, erasers, notebooks and many other items. The store also has novelty items for the students.
If your student has lost their PE clothes or needs new clothes, we have a good supply. We also have the heavy blue Bowman Hoddies. There are a very limited number of them remaining and we will not get any more in. Cost is $27.
The store is open many mornings from 8AM - 825AM.
Spirit Store Volunteers Needed
The Bowman Store is open as much as possible. Currently and in the past, we have had fathers volunteering. If there are any other fathers willing to volunteer to help in the store one or two days a week, it would be greatly appreciated.
Please remember a background check is needed. Please contact Harry Donaghy at hbdonaghy@gmail.com if interested
Join Shoparoo Painless fundraising
PTA Hospitality Update
Thank you to everyone who helped with the Holiday Teacher's Luncheon this past December 2015. This year we also had help from Chase Oaks Legacy Church. They provided monetary support which helped our PTA in a huge way. We appreciate everyone's time and donations for another successful way to honor our teacher's and BMS staff.
Mark your calendars! The Bowman PTA will be hosting an end of the year luncheon for the wonderful Bowman Staff on Friday, May 13th in the Bowman Library from 1100 am-1:00 pm. We will need parents to help set up, serve, and clean up. We will also need dessert donations. Please arrive at 10:00 am to assist or to bring a dessert. If you are not able to stay, please leave your dessert in the office.
Please contact Carmen Cava atcarmencitacava@gmail.com or 214.475.6568 (mobile/text) for questions and additional information. Thank you.
Counseling, Clinic and Library
From the Counseling Department:
Sixth and Seventh Grade: Ms. Yates and Mrs. Grant will be meeting with students to discuss their scheduling options for 7TH and 8th grade. Registration cards will be going home with students the week of January 25th, and on-line registration is scheduled for the week of February 1st. If you are the parent of a 6th or 7th grader, and you have questions about registration, please feel free to contact your child’s counselor.
Eighth Grade: Academic conferences begin February 8, 2016. Mrs. Benoit has sent out letters with your student’s conference date and time. As a reminder, we are on a short time frame, so these dates cannot be changed. If you have any questions regarding academic conferences, please contact Mrs. Benoit.
STAAR Dates:
3/29
6th None
7th Writing(one day only)
8th Math
3/30
6th None
7th Writing Make-ups
8th Reading
First Week of May
7th Algebra 1 EOC (only students enrolled in Algebra 1)
8th Algebra 1 EOC
5/9
6th Math
7th Math
8th Math Re Test
5/10
6th Reading
7th Reading
8th Reading Re Test
5/11
6th Make-ups
7th Make-ups
8th Science
5/12
6th Make-ups
7th Make-ups
8th Social Studies
CLINIC NEWS
Smile! February is Dental Health Month
Good dental health is the result of brushing, flossing, and good eating habits. Getting regular check-ups are also important. In middle school, kids are still losing primary teeth, and permanent teeth are still erupting. If there is concern about the appearance and placement of teeth, visit your family dentist.
Good heart health is also promoted in February. Good eating habits, exercise, and weight control can keep your heart in tip top shape. Did you know that by exercising 30 minutes a day can lower your risk of heart disease? Make exercise a family activity can help develop lifelong habits for everyone. Turn off the electronics and start to move! More information can be found on the American Heart web site at: www.americanheart.org.
7th grade screenings for vision, hearing, and Texas Risk Assessment for Type 2 diabetes were completed in January. Letters will be sent home in February and March for those students needing further evaluation.
Immunization News:
Students entering 6th, 7th and 8th grades will need to show proof of the following vaccines:
6th: Hepatitis A: 2 doses after the first birthday.
7th: Tdap booster if at least 5 years have passed since the last dose of tetanus-diphtheria containing vaccine.
Meningococcal vaccine: 1 dose
Varicella: 2 doses after 1st birthday or history of disease.
8th: Tdap/TD: Booster dose if 10 years have passed since last dose.
Immunization letters will be sent home this spring with those 6th graders still needing immunizations to enter 7th grade. As your child receives these immunizations, please send their record to the clinic.
To view a copy of your child’s immunization record currently on file with the school, please go to: https://parentviewer.pisd.edu/ .
You can also visit: http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/immunize/default.shtm for more information.
For further assistance contact:
Nurse Hay
469-752-4809
Library Updates
Spring promises to be busy. In March we will begin our own rendition of “March Madness “ as students vote for their favorite book on our Sweet Sixteen grid. Our book voting will continue into April as the favored book choices are narrowed down to the final two.
April is School Library Month featuring National Library Week from April 10-16. The theme this year is Libraries Transform. Suggested attire for that week will be forthcoming and will hopefully add to the festivities. As if that isn’t enough we will host out 5th Annual Poetry Slam on Tuesday, April 19th immediately after school in the library. This annual event has turned into something the kids look forward to. We hope to send a solid team of poets to the District Slam which will be held at Bowman in the competition gym on May 2nd. Times for that exciting event will be released closer to that date.
Painless Fundraisers
Current Painless Fundraising News
- Box Tops Spring Contest – Many thanks to all families that participated in the Box Tops contest that was held in the October. As a result of your participation we raised $299 for our school! 3 students received prizes for submitting the most Box Tops. Box Top collection for the spring will be from February 1st – 12th. Donations of prizes for the winning students are welcomed.
- CFK Recycling – We will be sending in our final submission of recycled items soon. Please be sure to drop off any items you have at your home or office by May 4th. See details below.
Painless Fundraising General Info
- Clip and Earn – clip labels/coupons from products you already buy and save them for the contests held in Feb and Oct of each year. Also, when shopping online remember to link to your favorite retailers through the Box Tops website first to earn eBox Tops for Bowman.
- Box Tops for Education www.btfe.com – Bowman receives $0.10 per Box Top.
- Campbell’s Labels for Education www.labelsforeducation.com – Bowman receives points for labels to purchase school supplies and equipment.
- Tyson Project A+ http://projectaplus.tyson.com/ - Bowman receives $0.24 per label.
- CFK Recycling – Cartridges for Kids is a recycling program that pays schools CA$H for cell phones, printer ink/toner cartridges, laptops, iPods, and tablets/eReaders. Please drop off these items in the bins by the office or in the cafeteria. Visit http://cfktoday.com/ for a list of accepted items. Great for our earth too!
Questions? Need more info? E-mail Amelene McKay at amelenem@yahoo.com.