Weekly Family Update Issue # 4
September 1, 2019
Principal's Message
Hello Falcons Families,
We have had a great week here at Oak Valley. Students are settling into their classes, teachers are finding their groove, and my own kids are finally going to bed on time (most nights!).
We have Back to School Night coming up this week for our 6th grade families. This is one of my favorite events of the year. I look forward to you meeting our Falcon Faculty. I have been so impressed by the kindness shown by our students so far this school year. I have seen students bend down to pick up a piece of trash as they walk and talk with a friend. I have seen a student who was sitting alone at lunch be approached by a group and students and be asked to come join them (which resulted in smiles all around). I have seen students help others to find classrooms, restrooms, and even one help a student on crutches find the elevator. This place is amazing, your students are amazing. I feel like the kids all need a gift. How about I give you all tomorrow off? Alright everyone, no school on Monday, that is my gift to you!
Have a nice Labor Day Falcons.
Beaming With Falcon Pride,
Mr. Young
Colin Young
Principal
Oak Valley Middle School
Mindful Moment
Dear Families,
During the 2018-19 schoolwide Thoughtexchange survey, you offered many ideas on how to best support our students. One of the concerns raised was our students’ ongoing social-emotional learning and mental health wellness. Many of you pointed out the need to help students reduce their stress and anxiety, and to help students deal with academic and social pressures.
One way we are doing this is by implementing a “Mindful Moment” each day at all PUSD schools, starting this school year.
The purpose of a “Mindful Moment” is to provide an opportunity for students to calm themselves and have a quiet moment to prepare for learning. Teachers will not tell students what to think about or reflect upon during this time, but merely provide 60 seconds of quiet time before instruction begins. Our current culture is filled with stimuli and input for the mind, from the time we wake up to the time we go to bed. A “Mindful Moment”” allows our students a chance to pause and reflect upon the day ahead. We are asking for your help in discussing the “Mindful Moment” with your children at home as well as possible topics or thoughts for them to focus on.
Educators are not always aware of the struggles children face at home or in their personal lives. Research has shown that by participating in a quiet moment each day, students feel less anxious, less stressed, calmer, and more able to focus. This, in turn, improves learning as well as behavior at home and school.
Parent Role:
-Read parent letter and FAQs provided about PUSD’s “Mindful Moment”
-Discuss with your children the significance of a “Mindful Moment” and what topic or thoughts they might focus on to start off their day with purpose and positivity
Student Role:
-Listen to the teacher for the beginning and ending the “Mindful Moment”
-When the minute begins, students may wish to close their eyes or put their heads down
-Students should focus their mind on an important thought or something positive, calming, or quieting
-No talking, cell phone use, or school work during this minute
Teacher Role:
-Encourage students to put away all distractions
-The teachers signals the start of a “Mindful Moment” at the beginning of the school day
-Follow the provided script to lead the “Mindful Moment” (see attached)
-Keep track of the time for one minute, then announce the end of the “Mindful Moment”
Currently, 12 states mandate a “Moment of Silence” and 24 other states encourage the practice
in schools. While it is not required in California schools, we believe in taking this positive, proactive approach to our students’ well-being. Please continue reading for answers to frequently asked questions.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Is my child’s participation required?
A: Your child will not be required to participate, but it is strongly encouraged because we believe the “Mindful Moment” is beneficial to all of our students. If a student does not participate, they will still be expected to be quiet and not disrupt others during the “Mindful Moment.”
Q: Is this a religious practice?
A: No. PUSD’s “Mindful Moment” is neutral and non-religious. It does not encourage prayer over any other quiet, contemplative activity. Some students may choose to use the time for prayer or meditation, but no one will be mandating what to do or think about during this time. It is important that families discuss potential thoughts or topics that are consistent with their family values.
Q: Doesn’t this take up valuable instruction time?
A: 60 seconds cannot be reasonably construed as a burden on the instructional portion of the school day. Rather, this allows students to transition from “off time” to “school time” more quickly, which allows for a state of mind more conducive to learning.
Q: Where does this idea come from?
A: The idea stems from a nationwide effort called “Moment of Silence.” Organizers hope to improve society by implementing a “Moment of Silence” in schools: www.momentofsilence.info After additional feedback from community members, counselors, and principals, PUSD decided on its own version called “Mindful Moment.”
Q: Where can I read more about the benefits of this practice?
A: You can read letters written by children who have participated here: https://www.momentofsilence.info/#letters
Q: What are some things my child could think about or reflect on during the “Mindful Moment?”
A: Here are possible topics to consider:
· How I will be grateful for what I have in my life
· How I appreciate my family
· How I am proud to be an honest person
· What I am looking forward to today
· What makes me happy
· How I can better relax in class
· How I can better focus in class
· How I can respond better to my teacher
· How I can show more respect towards my parents/grandparents
· How I can contribute to society or the world around me
· How I can play more fairly with friends
· Ways to respond to being disappointed, without getting angry
· Ways that I can help my classmates
· How I will think of the good points of my classmate
· Ways to help at home- i.e., help with younger siblings
· Ways to avoid fights with siblings
· How I can do great things
· How to react when I am being bullied or teased
· Ways I am getting better every day
· Which people are those who I should look up to
· How I can look into the good of everything
· I have the ability to follow my dreams
· Things I like about my best friend
· Why I like silence
Q: What will the teacher say during the “Mindful Moment?”
A: Mindful Moment Script:
1. Ok, Class, let’s take a moment to have our “Mindful Moment” to start our day.
2. The “Mindful Moment” is so we can all start the day together with our minds ready to learn and focus for the day.
3. Remember to put away all distractions and make sure you’re sitting comfortably.
4. You can close your eyes or put your head down on your desk if you want to, or you can keep your eyes open too. Just make sure you are quiet and still.
5. Try to think about important or positive things that will help you be your very best today.
6. You may have spoken to your family about what you should think about during this time, but if you’re not sure, you can start with how you might better focus in class today.
7. This is an opportunity to make the most of your time and abilities while you’re at school.
8. The mindful moment starts now and will last for 60 seconds. Remember no talking or distractions for yourself or others. Ready, go.
9. (After 60 seconds.) Alright, Class, that’s the end of our “Mindful Moment.”
Back to School Night
We are excited to host you for Back to School Night!
Back to School Night for 6th Graders is on Wednesday, September 4th, Back to School Night for 7th/8th Graders is on Wednesday, September 11th.
Your homework to be prepared for that evening is to:
- Use the template (attached, and on our website) to fill in your child’s classes and room numbers.
- Contact at least two other families to arrange your carpool for the evening (see parking).
- Set up child-care for the evening. Due to space limitations in the classroom and on site, we request that your child not attend.
Deadline Extended for VIP Parking for Back to School Night!
With a $500.00 donation to the Oak Valley Falcon Foundation, you will receive VIP Parking for Back to School Night. The deadline for 6th grade Back to School Night is Tuesday, Sept 3rd, and Tuesday, Sept 10th for 7th and 8th grades; visit the Oak Valley Falcon Foundation at: www.oakvalleyfalconfoundation.com.
6th Grade Camp Update
Camp Cuyamaca Open House
Our first group of students will be attending 6th Grade Camp the week of September 16th. You can view an informational letter about camp and packing list on the Oak Valley website.
OVMS Cross Country
Students, are you looking for something fun to do after school? Come out and join the Oak Valley Cross Country Team! All you need to do to join is have a great attitude and a willingness to work to achieve your goals. Practices will start next Tuesday, September 3rd and will be held every Monday, Tuesday & Thursday after school from 3:15pm to 4:00pm. Practices are not mandatory and runners can come whenever it best fits into their schedules. If you have any questions please contact Coach Kenny
Music Boosters Fundraiser
Dine out Night at Flippin' Pizza on Tues, Sept 10, 2019 from 5-9pm
Help support the Oak Valley Music programs by joining us at Flippin’ Pizza 4S Ranch for our first fundraiser of the year! Mention OVMB (Oak Valley Music Boosters) when dining in or ordering (online/phone) and up to 50% of sales are donated back to OVMB! Come check out the Jazz Band behind the scenes rehearsal while you dine in or grab your pizza! Bring your lawn chairs and find them in the alley behind Flippin' Pizza 4S Ranch (The alley is between the buildings in that plaza). An informational flyer is attached.
If we exceed last year's sales of $2200, Mr. Nowak dyes his hair a mystery color or colors!
OVMS Math Counts
Science Olympiad
Robotics Teams - Coaches Needed!
Oak Valley Falcon Foundation
Welcome back to school! Oak Valley would not be able to provide the world-class educational experience and environment for our students without the support of parents like YOU! As we begin the 2019-2020 Academic Year, I encourage you to donate to the Oak Valley Falcon Foundation to ensure that our school continues to be the premier middle school in our district and state.
The Oak Valley Falcon Foundation has and will continue to support technology and programs for our 21st century learners. With the construction of the new building underway, we have the unique opportunity to help fund new and much needed shade structures for our students. So this year, every family that donates $300 or more to the Foundation, their name will be placed on a plaque commemorating their contribution and commitment to Oak Valley Middle School. This is a wonderful opportunity to leave a legacy for our students and future Falcons for years to come.
Additionally, I know that many parents work at or own a local business. This year we’ve added a new sponsorship opportunity that can help increase the exposure of your business or place of work and show your support for Oak Valley Middle School!
Donations and sponsorship opportunities can be made by check or online at:
www.oakvalleyfalconfoundation.com
Giving Circles:
$150 Bronze Level
$300 Silver Level
· Name on Commemorative Plaque for 2019-2020 Foundation Contribution
$500 Gold Level
· Name on Commemorative Plaque for 2019-2020 Foundation Contribution
· VIP Parking for Back to School Night (must donate by September 3rd for 6th grade Back to School Night, September 10th for 7th/8th Back to School Night).
$1000 Platinum Level or Business Sponsor
· Name on Commemorative Plaque for 2019-2020 Foundation Contribution
· VIP Parking for Back-to-School Night (must donate by September 3rd for 6th grade Back to School Night, September 10th for 7th/8th Back to School Night).
3' x 5' Banner Ad on the front fence for the entire school year (Business Sponsor)
The Oak Valley Falcon Foundation is a tax exempt organization under IRS code 501(c) (3). Donations made to Oak Valley Middle School through the Oak Valley Falcon Foundation are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by the law.
PTSA News
Become an OVMS PTSA Member
In this era of district budget struggles, financial support for our classrooms is critical so we can continue to provide the 21st century learning experience that our students deserve each day. We are using an online tool called Totem for OVMS PTSA Membership Registration. Check it out at the link below:
https://jointotem.com/ca/san-diego/oak-valley-middle-school-ptsa/join
Your OVMS PTSA membership gets you the national discounts located here:
https://capta.org/join/member-perks/
We also have a "DONATE" button on Totem to make your student buyout donation ($150) or select a custom amount to fund your Falcon for the entire year (Fundraising Buyout) or provide a custom donation for Art Corps, the Falcon Center, and Teacher Mini-Grants. We are doing our part to go paperless and ensure you automatically have a receipt for your transactions.
Oak Valley Spirit Wear Final Sale This Year
Your last chance to purchase spirit wear will be at Back to School Night. We only have a handful of items left and when they’re gone that’s it this year. We only order once per year so don’t miss out! We have sweatshirts, a few Dri-Fit shirts and V-neck or crew-neck T-shirts. Wear Oak Valley blue on spirit Fridays and show your pride. Get caught wearing spirit wear or royal blue and you can win a prize. Look for our table at Back-to-School Night to grab one of the few remaining items.
Oak Valley ESS
Does your falcon enjoy being active and participating in games and activities?
Being able to collaborate and work on homework with their peers?
Having access to the school library and computers to complete homework?
Oak Valley ESS is for you and
We are open for enrollment!
Extended Student Services (ESS) at OVMS is expanding and growing! We have room in the Fall for you and your neighbors so feel free to keep spreading the word. As we start our 3rd year of ESS growth at Oak Valley, we know that our program is staffed with fantastic Program Aides, mostly college students who have a passion for helping kids grow and learn each day.
Hours of Operation:
6:30am- 8:20am Monday – Friday
6:30am – 9:20am Late Start Tuesdays
3:05pm-6:00pm Monday- Friday
*We are also open at dismissal on planned minimum days. Plus, the opportunity to enroll for President’s week and Spring Break.
Students are provided a light afternoon snack when arriving from school each day. While at ESS, the students are provided at least one hour to work on their homework, daily. Most often, homework time is offered in the library, where they have access to textbooks and computers. While OV ESS staff is always ready and willing to provide help with homework and answer any questions that our students may have, it is important to note that ESS is not a homework club. Students also have the opportunity to participate in staff planned daily projects, activities, crafts, and/or organized games, while spending time here at ESS.
Please contact OVMS ESS Acting Supervisor, Alissa Polet (apolet@powayusd.com) or
Lead Assistant, Lucy Vargas (lvargas@powayusd.com)
Direct phone line: (858-676-6978) with any further questions on enrollment
We thank you for spreading the word about the great ways that we can support students with homework help and actively participating in the program before and after school.
PUSD Parenting Classes
Poway Unified offers a variety of parenting classes; for more information, including how to sign up, please visit the Parent Education tab on PUSD's website.
Surviving and Thriving in Middle School
Bring out the best in your teen, increase respect, responsibility and give consequences that work. Teach your teen the skills to prevent negative influences. Based on Active Parenting of Teens by Michael Popkin, Ph.D.
Wednesdays, September 25th Mesa Verde Middle School from 6:30pm -8:30 pm
Class fee: $16/individual or $27/couple
Helping Your Child Manage Stress and Anxiety
Our children are faced with many situations that make them stressed or anxious: school pressures, social challenges, etc. What can we do to help them manage that level of stress and anxiety white still finding joy in their world? Join us for practical ideas to help guide them through it all.
Grades 6th-12th:
Wednesday, October 2nd Twin Peaks Middle School from 6:00pm -8:00 pm
Class fee: $16/individual or $27/couple
Parenting a Gifted Child – Grades TK-8th
Has your child been identified GATE or gifted? This evening will offer strategies for the three most common challenges gifted children struggle with:
1. Perfectionism - No one is perfect!
2. Self-confidence - Learning involves trying new things and taking risks!
3. Making mistakes - Accepting failure and disappointment with grace!
Wednesday, October 23rd Willow Grove Elementary School from 6:00pm -8:00 pm
Class fee: $16/individual or $27/couple
Oak Valley Middle School
Website: https://www.powayusd.com/Schools/MS/OVMS/home
Location: 16055 Winecreek Road
Phone: (858) 487-2939
Twitter: @PrrincipalColin