Voyager MS Family Bulletin
March 18, 2022 Weekly News
Home of the Wolverines
Our mission is to prepare our youth today for tomorrow’s opportunities.
Land Acknowledgement
The Mukilteo School District acknowledges that we gather on the ancestral homelands of the Coast Salish Peoples, who have lived in the Salish Sea basin since time immemorial. We respect this place and honor the sacred spiritual connection to the land, water, and its people, past, present, and future. The district serves a diverse population of about 15,000 students who live near the Puget Sound about 15 miles north of Seattle. Dedicated staff help prepare our community's children to be successful, contributing members of the community. Our students learn in an environment that is positive, caring, and focused on their highest academic potential.
The Voyager MS Family Bulletin is available in multiple languages
Thought of the Week
Updated COVID Guidelines, Health and Safety and Family Resources.
Masks
As of March 12 the statewide indoor mask mandate was lifted. That means masks are now recommended but optional on school buses, and in schools and district offices. Here's the updated guidance from Washington State Department of Health and the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction.
We understand that these changes may be concerning for some. We know that some staff, students and families will decide they are done wearing masks all together, while others will continue wearing them. We support and respect people’s decisions. We’ve included a few additional resources on the district website for supporting students through this transition.
Masks are still recommended (but not required) in certain situations such as high-risk indoor sports and performing arts.
It’s important to note that we don’t know if or when masks may be required again. As public health experts monitor COVID-19 in our community, the guidance may be temporarily updated in the future. We will update you if such changes are necessary.
Symptomatic persons, positive cases, additional guidance
Please see the district website and this updated flowchart for what to do if your child has symptoms or tests positive for COVID. Several circumstances listed on this webpage will still require masks.
Additional changes
- Contact tracing for COVID-19 exposure will no longer be conducted by school employees, but we will notify staff and families if there is a positive case so people can monitor for symptoms, etc. For instance, if a positive case occurs in a classroom, we will notify the families of that classroom so we are sure to reach anyone who may be considered high risk or immune-compromised.
- We are still required to report positive cases to the Snohomish Health District and track for district records. If your child tests positive for COVID-19, please notify the nurse hotline at 425-366-7745 (for elementary schools, middle schools and ACES), or your school nurse (for Mariner and Kamiak high schools).
- We will continue to maintain the district COVID Dashboard to show positive cases throughout the district for the previous week.
Testing reminder
The district testing site near Mariner High School (12310 Meridian Ave. S., Everett) is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. It is open to all and now provides rapid antigen and PCR tests. No appointment needed, but you can save time by registering ahead of time.
We know how incredibly difficult this pandemic has been for our school district community, and we appreciate your continued efforts to protect the health and safety of staff and the families we serve.
Sincerely,
Mukilteo School District
New Nurse Hotline
Attendance Reminders to All Families
We want to remind students and families about the importance of daily attendance. In order for students to do their best learning in school, students need to be present at school, on time, as many days as possible. Additionally, please be mindful about scheduling appointments outside of the school day whenever possible, or to bring students back to campus so that they miss as little school as possible.
Sick or Unable to Attend
Stay home if you’re sick.
Thank you for your help in keeping Voyager Middle School as safe as possible.
March 21 - March 25
Monday, March 21 - A Day
Before School
Library Open 7:40 - 8:00am
During School
Literacy Center
8:10 - 9:30am
9:50 AM – 11:05 AM
1:15 PM – 2:45 PM
After School
ELL Club - 2:55 - 4:00pm - Room# B151
Literacy Center Staff Club - 2:55 - 4:00pm - VO Library
6th/7th/8th Grade Wrestling Practice - 3:30pm - 6:00pm - Mariner HS
Tuesday, March 22 - B Day
Before School
Library Open 7:40 - 8:00am
During School
Literacy Center
8:10 - 9:30am
9:50 AM – 11:05 AM
1:15 PM – 2:45 PM
After School
Cribbage Club - 2:55 - 4:00pm - VO Library
Homework Club - 2:55 - 4:00pm - VO Library
Craft Club - 2:55 - 4:00pm - Room# B153
7th/8th Boys Wrestling Games match vs. Alderwood, Evergreen & Heatherwood - 3:45pm @ Evergreen
Voyager Orchestra Concert - Live Audience - 7:00 - 8:00pm - VO Gym
Wednesday, March 23 - A Day
Before School
Library Open 7:40 - 8:00am
During School
Literacy Center
8:10 - 9:30am
9:50 AM – 11:05 AM
1:15 PM – 2:45 PM
After School
STEAM Club - 2:55 - 4:00pm - Room#C140
Homework Club - 2:55 - 4:00pm - VO Library
6th/7th/8th Grade Wrestling Practice - 3:30pm - 6:00pm - Mariner HS
Thursday, March 24 - B Day
Before School
Library Open 7:40 - 8:00am
During School
Literacy Center
8:10 - 9:30am
9:50 AM – 11:05 AM
1:15 PM – 2:45 PM
After School
Homework Club - 2:50 - 4:00pm - VO Library
Pride Club - 2:55 - 4:00pm - Room# A130
7th/8th Boys Wrestling Games match vs. Einstein - 3:45pm @ Explorer
Friday, March 25 - A Day
Before School
Library Open 7:40 - 8:00am
During School
After School
6th/7th/8th Grade Wrestling Practice - 3:30pm - 6:00pm - Mariner HS
Friday - Learning Improvement Time (LIT) - Early Dismissal at 1:30pm
Social Emotional and Well-Being Survey
Dear Mukilteo School District families,
About a week ago, we shared with you that we are inviting staff, students (grades 3-12) and families to participate in a social emotional and well-being survey again this spring. The survey is open through April 8. The survey should only take 15 to 20 minutes to complete and is available in several languages including English, Spanish, Russian, Ukrainian, Korean, Arabic and Vietnamese.
We encourage you to have your children take the survey too if they are in grades 3-12. The access code is the student’s ID number.
Thank you for helping us get a sense of how people are doing and how we can better support students and families.
If you have any issues accessing the survey, please contact SUPPORT+MUKILTEO@PANORAMAED.COM.
Sincerely,
Mukilteo School District
Next year’s plan for PK-8 distance learning programs.
Dear Mukilteo School District families,
After research and much deliberation, we have decided to discontinue the PK-8 distance learning program after this school year. The distance
learning programs were so helpful during the pandemic in offering a remote option for families, but our data shows our younger distance learners were less engaged and had less instructional time than their in-person peers. At the end of the current school year, staff who were working in the elementary and middle school distance learning programs will return to their original positions and would be subject to normal staffing considerations for the 2022-23 school year.
Mukilteo Virtual Academy for grades 9-12 will continue for the foreseeable future. Older students seem to be more successful in the online learning environment.
Thank you for understanding the changing nature of these programs due to the pandemic.
Sincerely,
Mukilteo School District
Volunteers
Mukilteo School District is now welcoming volunteers back into their buildings!
Voyager is always looking for volunteers to assist with various events throughout the school year. Volunteers play an essential role here at Voyager and we believe that when schools, families and the community work together to support learning, everyone benefits. It is also a great opportunity for families to stay connected within the school and community and enrich our students’ academic experience.
As of March 7, 2022, volunteers must show proof of vaccination as part of the approval process. Boosters are not currently required for volunteers. Vaccination exemptions or accommodations are not available for volunteers at this time.
To learn more about volunteering, please review the Volunteer Brochure.
If you would like to donate your time, you can print a Volunteer Application Packet in your preferred language by visiting Volunteers / Volunteer Information and Forms (mukilteoschools.org) or visit our Front Office to obtain a Volunteer Application Packet. Please note that the following items must be presented in person:
- Completed Volunteer Application Packet.
- Proof of vaccination
- Identification Card
For any questions, including volunteer opportunities, please contact Olga Mantilla at mantillaoy@mukilteo.wednet.edu or (425)366-5313.
"Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they have the heart."
~ Elizabeth Andrew
2021/2022 Voyager Yearbooks – Now on Sale!
Nothing else can immortalize the memories you have of middle school quite like a yearbook can! It’s been a challenging yet amazing year for our students and we have captured many of those moments within the pages of this yearbook! Yearbooks are now available for sale at $15. The last date you can buy a yearbook is the last day of school, Friday, June 17.
Yearbooks can be purchased at Voyager Middle School with Ms. Nelson, Bookkeeper. Cash or Check accepted. In person credit card purchase is also accepted.
Yearbooks will be distributed the last week of school.
For any questions please e-mail Mr. Hare at haremj@mukilteo.wednet.edu
SAVE THE DATE: Incoming 5th to 6th Grade Family Night
Middle school is a major transition for children. Join us on Tuesday, March 29, as we provide you with a glimpse into “A Day in the Life of a 6th Grader” at Voyager Middle School. You will have the opportunity to meet school administrators, teachers and school counselors as well as ask questions about your child’s transition into middle school.
Information on this fun and informative night will be mailed out to 5th grade parents and their student’s respective schools.
When: Tuesday, March 29, 2022 - 6:15pm – 7:30pm
Where: Voyager Middle School
March is National Reading Month
National Reading Month was established to motivate people of all
ages to read every day! We all know that reading impacts language
and literacy skills, such as vocabulary development, phonemic
awareness, and alphabet knowledge. However, the benefits of
reading go far beyond language and literacy.
Consistent reading habits have been linked to greater cognitive and social-emotional development as well as positive mental health. For more information on the benefits of reading, please visit https://www.childtime.com/blog/2020/03/march-is-national-reading-month/
March is Women’s History Month
Women's History Month is an annual declared month that highlights the contributions of women to events in history and contemporary society. During the month of March, we give a little extra attention to all of the amazing accomplishments of strong, determined women. Since 1987, the United States has formally recognized March as National Women’s History Month.
Every woman has a story to tell and gifts to share with the world. To learn more about Women’s
History Month please visit https://www.womenshistorymonth.gov/
Friday - Learning Improvement Time (LIT) – EARLY DISMISSAL SCHEDULE
8:05 - 9:30am - Core
9:35 - 10:50am - Elective
10:50 - 11:20 - Lunch
11:25 - 11:55am - Intervention
12:00 - 1:30pm - Core
7th Grade
8:05 - 8:35am - Intervention
8:40 - 11:40am Core
11:40 - 12:10 - Lunch
12:15 - 1:30pm - Elective
8th Grade
8:05 - 9:15am - Elective
9:20 - 12:15pm - Core
12:15 - 12:45pm - Lunch
12:50 - 1:30pm - Intervention
Upcoming Events
Season Three Sports Schedule - https://www.arbiterlive.com/Teams?entityId=33418
3/29/22: Incoming 6th Grade Family Night - 6:15 - 7:30pm - VO Commons
4/5/22: Voyager Band concert - Live Audience - 7:00 - 8:00pm - VO Gym
4/11/22 - 4/15/22: Spring Break – No School
4/19/22: Madres Latinas Meeting - Zoom - 10:00 - 11:00am
4/26/22: Voyager Music Booster Club Meeting - 7:30pm - Via Zoom
5/13/22: Madres Latinas Meeting - Zoom - 10:00 - 11:00am
5/24/22: Voyager Music Booster Club Meeting - 7:30pm - Via Zoom
5/30/22: Memorial Day – No School
6/14/22: Madres Latinas Meeting - Zoom - 10:00 - 11:00am
6/17/22: Last Day of School (Early Dismissal @ 12:00pm) (Snow make up day)
Helpful Resources
Voyager School Counselors
6th Grade Counselor
Brenna Reid
425-366-5334
7th Grade Counselor
Vincenza Moody
425-366-5333
8th Grade Counselor
Margaret Peterson
PetersonMJ@mukilteo.wednet.edu
425-366-5332
Student and Family Support and Resources
Kristen Anderson
Student Support Advocate
andersonkm@mukilteo.wednet.edu
(425)366-5322
Olga Mantilla
Family Engagement Liaison
mantillaoy@mukilteo.wednet.edu
(425)366-5313
COVID-19 Testing Locations
Mukilteo School District
Covid Testing Even Easier
The COVID testing location at 12310 Meridian Ave. S., Everett, 98208 (near Mariner High School) is now accepting walk-ups! While appointments are still encouraged, they have capacity to see students, staff and community members even without an appointment.
Please see attached map for entrance and exit locations.
Please use the registration and appointment sign-up link if you plan to make an appointment.
Additional testing locations within the community
Return to School / COVID testing locations (mukilteoschools.org)
Everett Mall Vaccination Site - Snohomish Health District
Everett Mall Vaccination Site | Snohomish Health District, WA (snohd.org) For those with limited or no internet access, the call center at 425-339-5278 is open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays (closed weekends and holidays).
Free at Home Covid-19 Tests from Government and State
Government: COVIDtests.gov - Free at-home COVID-19 tests
WA State: Home - Say Yes! To Covid Test (sayyescovidhometest.org)
Mukilteo School District - Past Family Messages
Voyager MS Family Bulletins - Past Issues
Links
Mukilteo School District Web Site
Mukilteo School District Facebook Page
Voyager Middle School Web Site
Voyager Staff Directory / Home (mukilteoschools.org)
https://www.flashalert.net/login/
Mukilteo School District 2021-22 School Calendar
Voyager Clubs for the 2021/2022 School Year: Voyager Clubs (mukilteoschools.org)
FAMILY ACCESS: link
FlashAlert Newswire and Messenger
Covid Data Dashboard Return to School / COVID cases dashboard (mukilteoschools.org)
Free Student Meals for the 21-22 School Year! Complete the application
Transportation Department (425)366-1306 or visit Find Your School Bus Route.
VO Facebook @voyagermiddleschool
VO Instagram @voyagerwolverines
How to Get Information About School Closures or Delays
In the event of inclement weather, a power outage, or some other emergency making it necessary to close or delay schools, you can find that information in a number of ways:
CHECK YOUR PHONE Connect to Blackboard Connect.
Visit here if you want information about emergencies, such as the procedures for school closures, lockdowns, and shelter-in-place. Emergency Information. Or call the school district’s Emergency Information Line at 425-356-1299 or the 24-hour information line for your child’s school.
CHECK THE WEBSITE Mukilteo School District Web Site.
You can go directly to the Flash Alert website.
Free tutoring services for middle and high school students!
Students in grades 6 through 12 have access to free online tutoring services through a partnership with Revolution Prep. Academic tutoring will be accessible through the student portal on the district website in many key academic subjects (math, science, English Language and literature, foreign languages, history, etc.).
The sessions are offered in one-hour blocks with up to 5 other students. They are available after school, evenings and weekends. Students may drop-in to a session, but reservations are recommended as some sessions may fill up.
Watch this five-minute video to get started!
For more information, please access recordings here Free tutoring for middle and high school students! Additional family webinars in other languages will be presented in January.
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide - FREE Tax Preparation & Filing
Visit AARP Tax-Aide for more information.
New Convenient Digital Vax Record
Mukilteo School District is Hiring!
Virtual Career Fair - RESCHEDULED to March 26
Saturday, March 26, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. with information about job opportunities.
Anyone interested in learning more about Mukilteo School District or interviewing for a certificated, paraeducator, or bus driver position is encouraged to register for the Career Fair on the district employment website.
Stay Connected!
We send a schoolwide weekly newsletter and other regular communications out via Blackboard, our district wide communication system. By enrolling your child in our school, you are automatically set up to receive schoolwide and Blackboard messages from us. If you have updates to e-mail or phone numbers that you would like to make related to these communications, please call the main office at 425-366-5300.
Taking notes helps students remember what they learn
Experts agree that taking notes can benefit students in many ways. Students might forget what the teacher says in class, but they will remember if they have a written record. Reviewing class notes is also a great way to study for tests.
To get the most from note-taking, your child should:
- Think about what is important and write it down. Rather than writing down every word the teacher says, your student should listen for names, dates, times of events and other key facts. And if the teacher writes something on the board, your child should definitely include it in her notes.
- Review and rewrite her notes when she gets home. Notes taken in a hurry are sometimes sloppy. Rewriting them ensures your child will be able to read them when she studies later. It also helps the information stick in her mind. Your child might even want to type her notes and print them out.
- Enlist a friend. If a classmate also takes notes, your child can compare the notes. Maybe her friend picked up something she missed.
- Stay organized. Encourage your child to use a binder that has different sections, labeled with the name of each class. She can date her notes and file them in the appropriate section.
~ The Parent Institute
Questions & Answers
Q: My son does OK in school, but he’s not working up to his potential. When I ask him why, he replies, “School’s really not that important.” Where is he getting this message?
A: Unfortunately, your child is probably getting this message from several different places—
and in very subtle ways. Although popular culture gives lip service to the notion that school matters, middle schoolers often absorb the opposite message. Here’s why:
- The media highlights unique success stories. Stories of self- made millionaires and gifted athletes abound. And often, the clincher is that some of these people abandoned school. So you can see why your child might think, “Well, if he became rich and successful without studying hard, then I can, too.” This is why it’s vital to remind him that these people are extreme exceptions to the rule.
- Many popular shows and movies celebrate ignorance. The most popular characters are often not-so-bright jokesters. But if your child believes intentional ignorance is his ticket to a bright future, he’s in for a rude awakening.
- Parents are busy. Do you ever complain about your child’s school projects? Are you too busy to look over his homework? The message your child is getting may not be the one you intend to send.
Show your child that school is a priority by asking about it every day. Let him know that his best chance for a happy and successful life is to take school seriously and always do his best.
~ The Parent Institute
Contact Voyager
Email: Voyager@mukilteo.wednet.edu
Website: https://mukilteoschooldistrict.sharepoint.com/sites/msd_vo
Location: 11711 4th Ave W, Everett, WA, USA
Phone: 425-366-5300
Facebook: facebook.com/@voyagermiddleschool