Dear Mason Families,

The start of middle school can be an anxious time for for students and their parents. There is excitement at a new beginning, the chance to meet new friends, have more class options and become more independent right alongside the stress of the unknown. Students can feel pressure from all around them; including parents, friends, teachers, social media & the internet, and even from themselves. Students want to be independent, but still need strong guidance and boundaries from the adults in their lives.

Parents won't be able to be with their kids all of the time, so teaching them about self advocacy and self-care is really important. Students must begin to take care of themselves both physically and emotionally. Balance is often the key for most middle school students. Open, accepting, and frequent communication with middle school students is important when fostering healthy, positive adolescent/parent relationships.

As counselors and social workers, we work with students individually, in small groups, and in the classroom. Students can self refer or parents or teachers can refer a student to meet with us. Student Services is a great resource for students and families. Don't hesitate to contact us if you have a question, concern, or need help. We look forward to working with you and your student(s)!

Ms. Bailey and Mrs. Hamers will be visiting all 5th grade classes starting this week to discuss the transition to middle school. Students will also visit MMS the week of May 23rd. We will have a 6th grade Orientation/Open House in August.

Parents/guardians can access their child's demographic information, grades, attendance, discipline, and Food Service account balance information via Internet, anytime, day or night using Skyward Family Access. To obtain your Login ID and Password (if you don't have it), please call our Skyward Analyst at (517) 676-6494 between 8am and 4pm. To get to the Skyward Family Access website, please use the button below.

It is REALLY important to be monitoring your student's grades on a regular basis (we suggest doing this weekly with your child) and to be connected with your student's teachers. Below you will see an image of a current 6th grader's schedule and gradebook from Skyward. In the gradebook, you will be able to see current grades and missing assignments. You can also view attendance (tardies and absences).

Parents will receive a notification via Skyward when schedules are completed (on or around August 14). The odd/even schedule won't be added into Skyward until much closer to the start of the school year.