Discovery Middle School
Newsletter - December 2022
Building a Foundation for Success!
Mrs. Amy Herrick
Grade 8
Mr. Brandon Larson
Grade 7
Mr. Hunter Reinke
Grade 6
This Month's Newsletter Features the Following:
- Memo from Mrs. Herrick
- FPS Accepting Nominations for Teacher, Administrator, and Support Staff of the Year
- Lunchroom Update: Food Choices/Purchases
- Canvas Support for Parents/Guardians
- Evidence Based Reporting Support for Parents/Guardians
- Discovery Online School Store
- Athletics and Activities Update from Mr. Larson
- Discovery Frozen Eagles - Snowboard/Ski Group
- Discovery Drama Update
- Mr. Reinke's Realm: Social Emotional Learning
- Counseling Corner: 7th Grade Health Presentations, 8th Grade Healthy Relationship Presentations, High School Registrations
- Mr. Ford's Focus: Movement and Education
- Nursing Nuggets featuring Nurse Katelyn
- Medication In School
- SRO Corner with Officer Noll: Traffic and Safety
- Upcoming Events
- December Letter Day Calendar
- Discovery PTA
- Citizenship Test as a Requirement for Graduation
- Discovery Library Updates: Author Visit, Fall Reading Program, Makerspace, Book Fair, Earbuds, Digital Safety, PLD Help
- Introduction to Restorative Practices
- Entry to Building - Raptor Visitor Management System Information
- Parent/Family Accommodations
- Parent/Family Communication
- Yearbooks
- Family Healthcare
- Liz's Closet
- Written Notification of School Accountability Report
Hello Discovery Families! From Mrs. Herrick
Happy December! We are nearing the end of the first semester (January 13th). This is a very busy time in our building with lots of activities and events. Recently, the Discovery Drama Department put on The Bully Plays, compiled and edited by Linda Habjan, as the ONE ACT in late Novemeber. This production was actually 6 10 minute plays on various aspects of Bullying. If you were able to see this production, you can attest to the time, talent, and hard work that our Discovery students and staff put into this amazing and powerful show. As part of this production, Mr. Larson, Mr. Napton (6th grade counselor) and I were able to have a question and answer with the cast and audience around the topic of bullying. The students and adults asked great questions about the FPS Anti-Bullying Policy, and we had conversations about what to do if someone is being bullied, what resources our school and district offer and some strategies that students and parents/guardians can do if their child is experiencing bullying. If you want to know more including: a link to the FPS Anti-Bullying Policy, how we educate our community about bullying at Discovery Middle School, strategies for students and parents/families, and some tips from Officer Noll, please see the PDF below.
The Bully Plays: A Bunch of Clowns
The Bully Plays: Bully Bully
The Bully Plays: Beasts
Fargo Public Schools Accepting Nominations Beginning November 28 for Teacher, Administrator, and Support Staff of the Year Awards
Community members are invited to nominate a deserving Fargo Public Schools teacher, administrator, or support staff member for the annual Staff Recognition Program. The program honors FPS staff members who serve our students with excellence. Online instructions, forms, and the application process can be found at www.fargo.k12.nd.us/StaffRecognitionProgram.
Can I request that the school stop my student from making food choices and/or purchases?
Safety Reminder Regarding Glass Water Bottles
2021-22 Annual Report
Fargo Public Schools is committed to serving our families and community patrons. As evidence of this commitment, we are showcasing the qualities and services of our school district and providing a wide array of information in the FPS 2021-22 Annual Report.
This report aims to familiarize families and the community with Fargo Public Schools by sharing details such as enrollment, staffing, and budget numbers and providing overviews of student services and assessment data. Thank you for your continued support as we serve the citizens of Fargo by providing students an excellent educational experience. You can access the full document at this link.
Canvas Support For Parents/Guardians
Pairing Parent/Guardian Account with Students
The links on the web have been updated to be clearer. The links are found at the Canvas Login Screen (fargo.instructure.com) – See picture below.
This is a direct link to the Pairing Parent/Guardian Account with Students. Click on the link to see the process for the parents to follow. Students must provide the code to the parent. You might want a few copies of this available at conferences.
Evidence Based Reporting Support for Parents/Guardians
Discovery Online School Store
Athletics & Activities Corner with Mr. Larson
Discovery Activities are now on Youtube! Just search for Discovery Middle School Activities. We will try to stream most home games, concerts, and meets. The videos will be found under the “Live” tab on our page. Subscribe to be notified for when we go live!
We have a BUSY month of girls basketball games, wrestling matches, 6th grade volleyball jamborees, and concerts! Check out the Discovery Activities calendar to see specific dates for each. Did you know that you can view & download specific calendars for each team & concert? Just click on the “View Schedules” tab, then click on the schedules you want to view.
Just a reminder, 7th & 8th grade boys basketball will start when we come back from winter break - January 3rd. Be sure to have all of the activities forms completed in Powerschool, a physical on file at Discovery, and the activity fee paid before the first day of practice!
Clubs
Chess Club: Every Wednesday in the library at 8:10am.
The Morning Club: Every morning at 8:10 in Mrs. Stinar's room. Quiet morning space with arts & crafts & journaling.
Art Club: Meets weekly after-school. Contact Mrs. Quittschreiber (art teacher) for more information.
Get Your Game on Club: Mornings in the Library, see Mrs. Donat for more information.
Library Leaders Club: Mornings in the Library, see Mrs. Donat for more information.
Student Leadership: Please contact Mr. Napton, Mrs. Spellerberg, or Mrs. Ferderer if interested.
Drama Club: Meets every-other Monday afterschool from 3:40 - 4:20 in the Creative Dramatics classroom.
Multicultural Club: start date TBD. Will meet M,W,F in room 115. Contact Ms. Thomsen or Ms. Bashir for more information.
DISCOVERY DRAMA!
SNOWBOARD/SKI GROUP
The Discovery Frozen Eagles will be returning this winter for snow fun!
Check out our website. (https://sites.google.com/view/discoveryfrozeneagles/home) there you can register for our email list and get in on winter fun. Be sure to find us on Facebook and Instagram.
7th Grade Fall Choir Concert
We're Live! Livestreaming at Discovery!
Discovery Honor Band to Concordia!
Mr. Reinke's Realm: Social Emotional Learning
Happy December to all the Discovery students and families! Wow! I can't believe the last month of 2022 is here. I hope all our 2022 New Year's resolutions were made and accomplished. As for mine, well, let's say it lasted for a couple of months... 😉 December has always brought me joy as it brings families together to celebrate the holiday season and allows me to reflect on my growth as an administrator, coach, husband, and dad. During those moments, I attempt to think about my accomplishments in the categories above; however, I reflect on my errors and mistakes more often. This negative thinking or negativity bias has some biological effects on our brains. There are positive and negative outcomes from thinking this way, and the explanation is probably a whole other newsletter. Some of these primary or foundational negative experiences that students have in school can be avoided by Responsible Decision-Making, which is one of the 5 CASEL competencies we will look at this month.
Responsible Decision-Making is defined as the ability to make caring choices about personal behavior and social interaction across many situations. Some examples of Responsible Decision-Making are: showing curiosity and being open-minded, analyzing the information and data to make a reasonable choice, anticipating the consequences of one's actions (very hard for middle schoolers), recognizing how critical thinking can help inside and outside of school, evaluating ones interpersonal impacts on family and the community. Responsible Decision-Making is difficult for students in secondary education, especially the middle levels, as the cause-and-effect portion of the brain is still developing. As parents, sometimes we react quickly when our child isn't following our expectations. Still, we must be aware that modeling, talking, and sharing the above examples will allow our children to develop quicker in Responsible Decision-Making and the other 5 CASEL competencies. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out. Go Eagles!
8th Grade Science Lab!
Special Guest: Senator Davison is a Middle Schooler for the Day!
Officer Noll Teaching about the Bill of Rights in American History
Counseling Corner
High School Admin Visits
Administrators from both Davies and South High will be coming to visit with our Discovery students on December 14th, 2022 during Advisory. The administrators will provide information about what students can expect in high school, how high school differs from middle school, and there will also be an opportunity for Q & A.
High School Registration
Attention to all parents and guardians of 8th grade students! Registration for high school is quickly approaching! Davies counselors will be visiting Discovery on January 5th, 2023. South counselors will be visiting Discovery on January 4th, 2023. The counselors will be visiting to share information about high school and selecting courses. Each 8th grade student will be given a registration form to review and complete with their parents or guardians. The registration form is due to Student Services by Friday, January 13th. Discovery counselors will start meeting with 8th graders after January 13th to register them for high school courses, answer questions, and share information about what to expect in high school. Parents or Guardians will be emailed a copy of the courses that their students have registered for after the student meets with a Discovery counselor. Davies will be hosting a very informative course fair on January 9th, 2023 at Davies. South High’s informational night will take place on January 16th, 2023 at South High. Please reach out to your Discovery counselor with any questions and make sure to complete your student’s registration form with them by January 13th, 2023.
Registration for future 6th, 7th, and 8th Graders
When we return to school in January the Discovery counselors will start visiting with our current 6th and 7th graders about registration for the 2023-2024 school year. In January, Mrs. Ferderer, who will be the 6th grade counselor for 2023-2024 school year will also start transition visits with our future 6th graders. More information regarding registration will be shared with families once we return from holiday break.
High School Tours
During second semester Discovery 8th grade students will have the opportunity to tour the high school that they will attend in 9th grade. Dates and times of tours to Davies and South High are TBD. More information will be sent out to families once plans are finalized.
8th Grade Healthy Relationship Presentations
The Rape and Abuse Crisis Center will be coming to talk about Healthy Relationships with our 8th grade classes in December. They will visit Team 8-1 Monday, December 19th, 2022, Team 8-2 Wednesday, December 21st, 2022, and Team 8-3 Tuesday, December 20th, 2022. In this presentation students will heighten their awareness of healthy relationship attributes and strengthen their ability to identify/provide examples of these qualities and characteristics. Students will also enhance their understanding of clear communication and strengthen their ability to identify and provide examples of assertive words and actions that “Say No” or provide consent. Students will increase their understanding of prevention and response techniques and strengthen their ability to identify/provide examples of words and actions to promote healthy relationship boundaries. Finally, they will develop the use of prevention and response techniques and use of strong communication skills through practice.
RACC will also return to Discovery on return to Discovery on 8-1 Tuesday, January 17th, 8-3 Thursday, January 19th, and 8-2 Friday, January 20th to talk with our 8th graders about Sexual Harassment. Through this presentation students will heighten their awareness of sexual harassment and harassment tactics and strengthen their ability to identify and provide examples of physical, visual/social/cyber, verbal, or emotional sexual harassment. They will increase their understanding of response and prevention techniques and strengthen their ability to identify/provide examples of words and actions to promote personal safety and boundaries. Students will enrich their understanding of friendship skills that can support someone who is experiencing sexual harassment and strengthen their ability to identify/provide examples of supportive help and caring. They will develop the use of response and prevention techniques and use of supportive friendship skills through practice. Finally, students will enhance their comfort level in talking to trusted adult helpers and expand their network of adults they can turn to or confide in.
If you have questions regarding this classroom visit or if your student would like to opt out of the presentation, please contact Mrs. McMinn (446-3312) or Mrs. Ferderer (446-3318).
Discovery Counseling Team
Taylor Ferderer – Lead Counselor, 446-3318
Sean Napton – 6th Grade, 446-3314
Joe Snowden – 7th Grade, 446-3313
Bridget McMinn – 8th Grade, 446-3312
Beth Zimmerman – SWFF, 446-3463
Mr. Ford's Focus - Movement and Education
Discovery students find different ways throughout the school year to positively impact the Fargo community. One event that the students just finished participating in is called ‘Fill the Dome’. This past November was the 16th year this event has taken place. This is a program where area elementary, middle school, and high school students come together to fill the floor of the Fargodome with food donations and package those donations to be delivered to the Great Plains Food Bank. This food will end up being used to benefit and those in need. Below are some pictures of the Discovery students in action, as well as a group picture of the students and staff that participated.
Nursing Nuggets with Nurse Katelyn
The cold and flu season are upon us, and it is important that we all work together to prevent the spread of viruses. There are numerous things that we can do to help stay healthy, including:
· Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your elbow when you cough/sneeze.
o Wash your hands after coughing/sneezing
· Wash you hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not readily available, use alcohol-base hand cleansers
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth (viruses are often contracted by touching something that is contaminated)
· Avoid close contact with those who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick.
· Stay home if you are sick
o Symptoms of allergies, the common cold, and Covid-19 are very similar. Please follow the CDC guidelines for Covid.
§ Please e-mail a copy of your Covid results to me or attendance if you do get tested.
o Please stay home for 24 hours after:
§ Vomiting or diarrhea
§ Fever of 100.0 F or higher
§ Undiagnosed skin rash or sores
o Do not hesitate to call me if you have any questions regarding illnesses or what you should do prior to returning to school
Katelyn Novacek, RN
E-mail: djhnurse@fargo.k12.nd.us
Phone: 701-446-3319
Attendance
E-mail: dmattendance@fargo.k12.nd.us
Phone: 701-446-3310
MEDICATION IN SCHOOL
If your student should need to take a prescription or non-prescription medication at school, Form AF6720-A must be filled out in it's entirety, signed by you and your doctor, and brought to the nurse. The medication bottle for school must be labeled , including student’s date of birth. If student will self-administer, in the case of an inhaler, please fill out form AF-6720-F. You should be able to get these forms off the FPS website under registration, or at your doctor’s office.
You can reach the nurse @ 701-446-3319 or by email: djhnurse@fargo.k12.nd.us.
SRO Corner with Andrea Noll
Parents of students as well as Discovery staff members understand the importance of arriving safely and getting home safely from school. Discovery Middle School and Centennial Elementary are located very close to one another and traffic in the area can get hectic in the morning and after school. Many Discovery students walk/ride bike to and from school and areas around the school become congested. As many of you see on a daily basis there are flashing yellow signs surrounding the school enforcing a 20 MPH (Mile per Hour) school zone. The city and your local law enforcement take these signs seriously.
Fargo Municipal Code 8-0502. - Speed limitations.
Subject to the provisions of § 8-0501 and except in instances where a lower speed is specified in this chapter or by the laws of this state, it shall be prima facie lawful for the driver of a vehicle to drive the same at a speed not exceeding:
Subsection B: Twenty miles an hour when passing a school; regular school hours when children are present, or when traveling through a designated school zone when a flashing beacon or other device indicates that reduced speed is required.
Penalty for violating the flashing beacon with children present is $80 if going (1-10 MPH) over the 20 MPH limit plus $2 for every MPH over 10.
Please drive safely and if you have any questions please reach out to Officer Noll.
Upcoming Events
December 6-9
- Scholastic Bookfair
December 23-January 2
- No School - Winter Break - Classes Resume January 3
DECEMBER LETTER DAY CALENDAR
Please see below for the December Letter Day Calendar or check out our Discovery website.
Our bell schedules and calendars are always posted on our Discovery website.
Discovery PTA
Do you know what the attendance clerk does at Discovery? Those who attended the October PTA general meeting got a glimpse into the work of this vital position from Mr. Israel, the attendance clerk at Discovery. He talked about his job as well as shared some of the data he shares with the administrative team on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. It was great information and something many people might now know much about.
We also got to hear from Mrs. Donat on what’s going on in the library. She shared the next reading challenge with us and offered an opportunity for the PTA to help with the challenge. PTA approved a grant to pay for prizes with the reading challenge.
PTA also had the opportunity to fund an important aspect of the health curriculum for 7th graders. FirstLink is scheduling their Suicide Education Outreach program in the 7th grade classrooms. The PTA felt that this was needed education for our students and chose to fund the cost of bringing the program into Discovery.
These are just a few examples of what the PTA does at Discovery. We can’t do the work without both parents and teachers being a part of the group. You can expect to learn lots of things about the school and develop relationships with leadership and teachers at the same time. You’ll get to know the administrative team better and you can make an impact on middle schoolers.
Please join us! Membership is only $15 for the entire school year and includes membership into the North Dakota PTA as well. Funds raised help us support student activities that might not otherwise be possible, grants for teachers and much more. Your support makes a real difference at Discovery Middle School!
If you want to learn more about the PTA or you have questions, check us out on Facebook by searching for Discovery Middle School PTA-Fargo. You can also email DiscoveryPTAPresident@gmail.com. General monthly meetings are held the last Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. You don’t need to be a member to attend a meeting, we invite you to attend a meeting and check it out first if you want to. Our next meeting is set for November 28. We would love to have you join us!
CITIZENSHIP TEST AS A REQUIREMENT FOR GRADUATION
The North Dakota state legislature has passed HB 1087, requiring all students to demonstrate proficiency in civics as a requirement for high school graduation. The law states:
“a student may take the test, in whole or in part, at any time after enrolling in grade seven and may repeat the test, or any portion thereof, as often as necessary to demonstrate proficiency.”
Every middle school in the district will be offering that test to students in grade eight this year. The information on the civics test is closely related to the material covered in eighth grade social studies. Students who do not demonstrate proficiency (70% or above) will have the opportunity to take the test again at the high school. There is no penalty for taking the test multiple times and there is never a fee to take the test.
The questions for the civics test are taken from the federal government’s Naturalization Test.
If you have questions or would like further information, please feel free to contact one of our 8th grade history teachers.
Jeremy Nesvold 8-1 (nesvolj@fargo.k12.nd.us)
Hans Anderson 8-2 (andersh@fargo.k12.nd.us)
Kyle Stegman 8-3 (stegmak@fargo.k12.nd.us).
WHAT'S HAPPENING IN THE LIBRARY!
Library Hosts Scholastic Book Fair Dec. 6-9
The Scholastic Book Fair will be in Discovery’s library Tuesday, Dec. 6 - Friday, Dec. 9, 8:10 AM - 3:45 PM. Popular books, cool posters, trendy school supplies, and much more will be available. Students will visit the fair with their English class and have opportunities to sign up to win free books and posters.
- The Book Fair flier, online purchasing, and an eWallet payment option can be accessed using the following link: https://www.scholastic.com/bf/discoverymiddleschool2
- Here is an entertaining video link that provides a sneak peek of the fair’s featured books and authors. Book Fair Sneak Peek
Thank you so much for fostering the love of reading and supporting our library. This is an exciting event for students and staff!
Babysitting Bags of Books - Check out yours today!
6th Grade FACS classes learned about the benefits of reading aloud
to kids, read-aloud techniques, and even got a chance to practice by reading E for Everyone picture books to each other.
Babysitting Bags of E for Everyone picture books for Pre-K through elementary age are available for checkout in the library. These books can be checked out for the purpose of reading to younger siblings as well!
Sora eMagazines are Here!
In addition to eBooks and audiobooks, Sora now has electronic magazines that cover a variety of topics. Sora is located in Middle School Resources (on Canvas dashboard). Students access Sora with their lunch number and normal password. Remember, students can download the app on mobile devices for free access there as well!
Students Use Learning Lab Makerspace to Engage in STEAM Activities
6th graders recently spent time in the Learning Lab Makerspace, an extension of the library. Working together in collaborative groups, students code using the CueBots, experience virtual reality with the Oculus, take green screen photos, complete circuit tasks with littleBits, and record videos showcasing creativity. All tasks focused on using 21st Century Skills of communication, collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking.
The Learning Lab Makerspace is open to all students from 8:10 - 8:35 AM on scheduled days. Using an EHall Pass to the Learning Lab, students can come to the Learning Lab. Upcoming open days include Nov. 28, 29, 30, Dec. 6, 7, 8. Dec. 13-15 the Learning Lab will host Holiday Green Screen Photos. Students should contact Mrs. Hyde or Mrs. Donat if they would like to schedule time to work in the Learning Lab Makerspace during the school day.
Earbuds
Please ensure your child has earbuds or headphones in school, as many audio options are available and utilized for learning.
Charge and Restart PLDs
- Please help your student remember to charge the device every night, so it is ready to use during the day. Bringing the charging cord to school is a good idea as well.
- In addition, ask your student to shut the device down each night. This is especially important as we move back and forth from school to home.
Handle PLD’s Safely: Helpful Tips
Discuss with your student the importance of carrying the PLD by the base rather than by the screen. Screens can break from the pressure when carried only by the screen.
Screen Time
Parents, you may be feeling like your child has too much screen time. Here are some articles from Common Sense Media that may be helpful:
4 Conversations to Have with Older Kids and Teens about Their Screen Time Habits
How Can I Help My Kids Develop Good Screen Time Habits?
INTRODUCTION TO RESTORATIVE PRACTICES
What are Restorative Practices in schools?
Restorative Practices have been used in schools since the 1970s and encompass a wide range of responses in order to address negative behaviors and incidents.
Why should we use Restorative Practices in Fargo Public Schools?
Research shows restorative practices lead to a reduction in suspensions, expulsions, and
(negative) behaviors/incidents and improvements in perception of school safety and academic improvement.
What does Restorative look like at Discovery?
Restorative Practices have both proactive and reactive components. Proactive elements include building and fostering positive relationships between students and staff and using techniques such as restorative chats and affective questioning. Reactive elements include a spectrum of responses such as restorative mediation, classroom circles, and restorative conferencing when conflict or harm occurs. Currently we have formed a Restorative Steering Committee meeting biweekly which is working to help shape restorative practices here at Discovery.
What is a Restorative Circle?
The circle process is a community-centered practice that has existed in Indigenous cultures for centuries. In the circle, every person is equally important and has an equal chance to be heard. It can be used in a classroom to teach content, to build relationships, and to address conflict.
What are Discovery Staff and Students saying about Restorative Practices?
“I was able to be kind of friends with the other student, there was no aggression against each other” (Student)
“I’ve learned to be the bigger person” (Student)
“There was less drama and I felt relieved because I didn’t have to worry about it” (Student)
“Me and my friends got our friendships back and better than ever”(Student)
“I feel like the meetings really saved some friendships and really made school life happier and healthier” (Student)
“I am becoming a better person after having these meetings” (Student)
“I was able to understand and react to students that were displaying negative behavioral cues in class – getting to the root of the issue was massively successful in changing the outcome of the issue. Getting the student the help they needed resulted in them becoming productive and successful in class” (Teacher)
Questions?
Jennifer Tackling, Restorative Conferences Facilitator, Discovery Middle School
Email: tacklij@fargo.k12.nd.us
Phone: 701-446-3361
Katie "Kat" Field, Restorative Practices District Facilitator
Phone: 701-446-1007
Email: fieldk@fargo.k12.nd.us
ENTRANCE TO THE BUILDING DURING SCHOOL HOURS
Fargo Public Schools is pleased to announce that we will begin using the Raptor Visitor Management System in all of our schools to strengthen our program of campus safety for students and staff. Part of keeping students and staff safe is knowing who is in our buildings at all times, and the Raptor system will allow us to do so. The Raptor system will allow us to better screen visitors, contractors, and volunteers in our schools to provide us with a safe environment for our students and staff.
Upon entering the school building, visitors will be asked to present an ID, such as a Driver’s License, which can either be scanned or manually entered into the system. If a parent or guardian for any reason does not have a US government-issued ID, the school staff member can use any form of identification and manually enter the person’s name into the Raptor system. Once entry into the building is approved, Raptor will issue a badge that identifies the visitor, the date, and the purpose of their visit. A visitor’s badge will not be necessary for those who visit our schools simply to drop off an item in the office or pick up paperwork.
A video overview of our pilot and how the system works is available at: https://youtu.be/8qwHwTmp-80
PARENT/FAMILY ACCOMODATIONS
Family support is so important for your child’s success at Discovery. If parents or other family members need accommodations to participate and attend any school function at Discovery, please contact the school office two to three business days prior to the event. Every effort will be made to meet your needs.
PARENTAL/FAMILY COMMUNICATION
Communicating with parents and families is always our goal at Discovery Middle School.
You may subscribe to Discovery’ Newsletter and Daily Announcements on our website by going to “Content E-Alerts” on Discovery’s website. Parents/guardians can sign up to receive alerts about new Daily Announcements, Newsletters, etc., for each school your students attend. E-Alerts are sent to users who have subscribed to a homepage or website section of interest. You will receive an email notification that content has been modified.
You may also want to add our school calendar to your personal calendar. This will help you stay informed about all the activities that are happening at Discovery.
Our school supply list, our student handbook, a link to PowerSchool, PTA information, and several other useful links are also available on our website.
YEARBOOKS
Yearbook orders will be taken online .The cost is $20.00. To ensure that your child will receive a yearbook at the end of the year, it must be ordered and paid for in advance. The deadline for ordering a yearbook is Friday, March 10, 2023.
Liz’s Closet
A Discreet, Free Resource for Discovery Students in Need
What: Discovery strives as a team to meet the needs of all students as part of our mission to build a foundation for success. Liz’s Closet, a free resource at Discovery, aligns with this mission by providing students in need with items such as clothing, hygiene products, non-perishable food items, etc.
At Discovery, we hope to provide developmentally appropriate support to students in need by offering a means to obtain basic food and hygiene products in a discreet manner. Students utilizing Liz’s Closet will have access to reusable bags, so items are less visible as students are leaving the building.
Where: Liz’s Closet will be located in Student Services. The room being used as “Liz’s Closet” will be accessible through a trusted adult in the building (teachers, counselors, administrators, paraprofessionals, designated staff).
Who: Any student in need of these items is welcome to take what he/she needs with the help of a trusted adult.
How: Although students are welcome to directly ask a trusted adult at Discovery to use Liz’s Closet, to maintain privacy as best as possible, a student can simply draw a star on a sheet of paper and bring it to a trusted adult. The adult will then instruct the student as to when he/she can go to Student Services to collect what is needed. If this adult does not have a time that works for him/her, the adult will notify the appropriate counselor or Student Services staff member to be expecting this student sometime within the school day. Once in Student Services, the student will be escorted to the closet and can take what is needed.
If you know of anyone who may need to utilize this resource, please do not hesitate to contact a Discovery counselor or administrator. Additionally, if you would like to donate shelf-stable food, school supplies, or hygiene products to Liz’s Closet, please contact Taylor Ferderer (school counselor) at 446-3318.
Written Notification of School Accountability Report
Dear Parent/Guardian,
North Dakota has launched a dashboard called “Insights,” designed to help communities across the state access important information about K-12 districts and schools. Insights features easy-to-read reports on multiple measures of school success, including:
- Student Achievement
- Choice Ready Results
- Performance Comparisons
- English Learner Progress
- Graduation Rates
- School and State Accountability Results
- School Improvement Information
- Post-Secondary Education
- School Environment
Transparency to the Public
North Dakota is committed to informing communities about how well our schools are doing. North Dakota’s future success depends on tapping into the potential of all students, so they graduate choice ready with the knowledge, skills, and disposition to be successful.
State education departments are required to annually create an accountability report for every public school in the state per the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). The school accountability reports outline how schools perform on the accountability elements North Dakota selected within its ESSA plan.
How is our School Doing?
To find more information about our School Accountability Report, visit the dashboard at Insights.nd.gov, select “Find My School,” and search alphabetically. The school accountability report is posted under the Dashboard heading.
Please note that the data made available to the public masks or hides data for groups with ten or fewer students to protect confidential information about individual students. Therefore, if data is unavailable to less than ten students, it will say “no data available.”
Family Engagement
We have strong plans for working to improve the educational programs at our school. We want you and your child(ren) to continue actively participating in our educational system. Please help support our high expectations for student achievement by participating in the school educational initiatives, offering input and support in our endeavors to raise student achievement, or volunteering at the school. Meeting our school’s goals will take a united effort, and I look forward to working with our families to ensure success for each student.
Continuous Improvement
All schools engage in continuous improvement for general support; therefore, our school has completed a continuous improvement plan through Cognia.
As part of the overall school improvement plan, a strategy map is generated for each school. Our strategy map, outlining our key school improvement initiatives, is also available on Insights.
If you have any questions regarding the information in the memorandum, please contact me.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Amy Herrick
(she, her, hers)
Discovery Middle School Principal
701.446.3304
Discovery Middle School
Brandon Larson, Assistant Principal/Activities Coordinator
Hunter Reinke, Assistant Principal
Joe Ford, Administrative Intern
Website: www.fargo.k12.nd.us/discovery
Location: 1717 40th Avenue South, Fargo, ND, USA
Phone: 701-446-3300