Monday 'Minders
April 22, 2024
Message from the Principal, Mrs. Blevins
Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) Showcase 4/19/24
I am thrilled to announce that our 8th grade students have done an incredible job with their Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) projects this year. Each and every student who participated in this project deserves a round of applause for their hard work and dedication to their research.
I want to specifically recognize the 38 groups who presented their ideas last Friday, April 19th. These students identified a problem, conducted thorough research, and presented their proposed solutions with confidence and poise. It was truly inspiring to witness the passion and creativity that these young individuals displayed.
I would also like to extend a special congratulations to the 4 groups who were chosen to speak at our YPAR symposium at Rutgers University on April 25th. This is a remarkable achievement, and I have no doubt that these students will represent our school community with the utmost professionalism and enthusiasm.
Projects like these demonstrate the immense potential that student voices have to impact change in their communities. I am excited to begin implementing some of these ideas at WWMS moving forward, and I have no doubt that our students will continue to be a driving force for positive change.
I would like to take a moment to thank our 8th grade social studies teachers for their hard work and dedication in facilitating this project. Their guidance and support have been invaluable to our students, and we are grateful for their contributions to our school community.
Once again, congratulations to every 8th grade student who participated in this project this year. Your dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed, and I am incredibly proud of each and every one of you.
See photos here.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Showcase 4/16/24
On Tuesday, April 16th, we had the privilege of hosting the first ever DEI Student-Led Conference at Woodrow Wilson Middle School. This groundbreaking event brought together over 100 students from the six secondary schools across Edison, all united under the theme of "Elevating our Voice."
The conference was a resounding success. Ms. Baninder Goomer, Chief Academic Officer Elementary, started the day with a meaningful keynote address. The day featured vibrant discussions among students about making a positive impact in their schools and our community. The energy in the room was palpable as these future leaders shared their ideas and visions for change. It was a day of meaningful dialogue and mutual inspiration, reminding us all of the power of young voices in shaping a better world.
A special thank you goes to Ms. Haley Connell for her dedication in working with our DEI student leaders throughout this year. Your guidance has been invaluable. Additionally, WWMS, in collaboration with the two district high schools, led several impactful breakout sessions. These sessions were expertly organized by Ms. Hitisha Patel, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, along with our district Equity Champions.
The day's events culminated in a DEI showcase hosted by the district that evening, highlighting the ongoing efforts across all schools. Our own WWMS Challenger Advocate Committee, composed of passionate students dedicated to social justice, took center stage. They have been working tirelessly to educate their peers on critical issues including disabilities, gender bias, LGBTQ+ concerns, and mental health awareness. Kudos to Mrs. Sedler, our WWMS Equity Champion, and our devoted team of teachers for supporting our students' initiatives throughout the year.
As we reflect on the success of this conference, let us remember the words of Nelson Mandela: "The true character of society is revealed in how it treats its children." Indeed, our children are not just our future—they are our present, and they have the power to change the world.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this event a memorable one. Let's continue to support our students as they lead the way in fostering an inclusive and equitable environment for all.
🏡 Message from Guidance 📦
If you are moving or going to private school and not attending Edison Schools next school year, please let Mrs. Campione in Guidance know so the proper paperwork can be completed.
Chromebook Keyboard Damage
Unfortunately, this year we have seen an uptick in damaged Chromebook keyboards. Students have been removing keys and/or the keyboard bezel and playing with them as toys. Once a bezel has been removed, the keyboard cannot be repaired and must be replaced. Also, it is not always possible to replace missing keys, as the keyboard is damaged and cannot accept the keys back. The fine to replace a keyboard is $23.
Parents, please speak to your children about purposefully damaging their Chromebook. Complete a tech ticket if damage is noticed.
See the photos below to see the types of keyboard damage we are seeing.
Fall 2024 Sports at Woodrow Wilson
Deadline to submit paperwork: Monday, June 3, 2024
The following sports will be offered for the Fall 2024 Season:
Boys' Soccer, Girls' Soccer, Co-ed Cross Country and Girls' Volleyball
In order to participate in fall sports, students need to have an updated physical on file.
Please see our website for detailed information on requirements, as well as the email below that was sent to all 6th and 7th grade parents and students on 4/17/24.
Fall 2024 Sports at JP Stevens
The email below was sent to all 8th grade parents and students about the fall athletic program at JP Stevens. Please note, all required paperwork must be submitted to JP Stevens by June 3, 2024.
7th Grade News
English: In writing class, students are continuing to write RST essays. During this unit, students hone their research and synthesis skills by analyzing sources, formulating a theory, and supporting their theory with evidence. Students also continue to learn new vocabulary and incorporate it into their writing.
During reading class, students are analyzing the elements of nonfiction in biographies and informational pieces. Students are applying these informational techniques by creating a pictograph to give information on a subject of their choice.
Science: Our 7th grade classes are finishing up our unit on natural selection and adaptations. We explored how organisms have changed over time. We are excited to begin our unit on the growth and development of plants and animals!
Social Studies: In 7th Grade Social Studies, we were able to support our 8th grade students by visiting their YPAR projects in the cafeteria on April 19th. Besides supporting our 8th graders, most classes have just finished their exploration of economics and trading in different civilizations, especially the Gold and Salt trades in West Africa.
Classes will also be focusing on different religions throughout ancient and medieval periods of history. Some religions and beliefs we will focus on are Islam, Christianity, Judaism, and different mythologies. We will explore the unique characteristics of each set of religions and beliefs and how they are similar to one another.
7th Grade Students of the Marking Period:
For the third marking period, teachers selected students who embodied the WWMS core values which are:
Choose Kindness, Always Shine Bright, Lead with Integrity, Never Give Up, Reach for the Stars.
These students were awarded the Ultimate Challenger Award. To celebrate, they were treated to a celebratory breakfast in the cafeteria. The award recipients are as follows:
English
Ms. Connell’s Award Winner: Kyra Baluja
Mrs. Marois’ Award Winner: Arnav Satardekar
Mr. Gesualdo’s Award Winner: Vishnu Mylu
Mrs. Caballero’s Award Winner: Rodrick Anim
Mr. Beaton’s Award Winner: Shriya Singh
Ms. Makowski’s Award Winner: Kashvi Sheth
Math
Mrs. Felipe’s Award Winner: Danya Nair
Mr. Lecky’s Award Winner: Saisha Kenjale
Mr. Riggi’s Award Winner: Shapthika Satheesh
Ms. Columbus’ Award Winner: Mahnoor Ahmed
Science
Ms. Cameron’s Award Winner: Ananjay Sharma
Mr. McBrierty’s Award Winner: Arham Bafna
Mr. Monticciolo’s Award Winner: Navaneeth Alla
Ms. Islam’s Award Winner: Sahasra Bhupathiraju
Social Studies
Mrs. Hurwitz’s Award Winner: Ishan Menon
Ms. Rhodes’ Award Winner: Ethan Milshtein
Ms. LaSala’s Award Winner: Anika Bansal
Mr. Solano’s Award Winner: Vishnu Cheedella
Physical Education
Mr. Papernik’s Award Winner: Urdhab Dutta Nag
Mr. Nardino’s Award Winner: Ranvijay Singh
Mrs. DiCocco’s Award Winner: Kehnisha Ahmed
Foreign Language and Electives
Mrs. Ramirez-Echeverri’s Award Winner: Twishaa Shah
Ms. Oliver’s Award Winner: Srinidhi Satish
Mrs. Liu’s Award Winner: Catherine Wu
Mrs. Molnar’s Award Winner: Kavin Shatneek
Ms. Jasnosz’ Award Winner: Rishabh Girish
8th Grade ACES Class
Mrs. Marois and the ACES class had the wonderful opportunity to visit Princeton University on April 12, 2024. The students visited various laboratories and were able to conduct experiments with the help of the Princeton Graduate students. It was a great day for all.
Disco Dance 5/9/24
Tickets are not sold at the door.
Book Fair 4/17-24/24
Talent Show
Attendance Notifications
If you are traveling for any reason and will miss school, Guidance and Attendance must be notified. Please send an email with the student's name and dates of travel to:
Important Chromebook Reminder
Students, please remember to come prepared to school with a charged Chromebook EVERY DAY!
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Click the title above or the image below to be directed to Balfour.
Clothing Drive 5/10/24
Message from the Nurse, Mrs. Fanik
Immunizations - 6th Grade
A reminder that all 6th grade students, who are 11 years of age, must obtain the Tdap booster and Meningococcal immunizations in order to attend Edison Schools.
If your child has turned 11, please submit proof to the Health Office that your child has obtained these immunizations. You can bring a copy to the main office, or email a copy to our nurse, Mrs. Fanik, at roulla.fanik@edison.k12.nj.us
If you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch with Mrs. Fanik at (732) 452-2870, ext. 33010.
We are still in the COLD and FLU Season...
A few friendly reminders...
Please DO NOT send your child to school if they have any of these symptoms:
Fever (100 degrees or greater). Your child may return to school only after their temperature has been consistently below 100 degrees without the use of fever-reducing medications for a minimum of 24 hours.
Nausea or Vomiting
Diarrhea
Chills
Frequent congested (wet) or croupy cough
To hep prevent the flu and other viruses, good hygiene habits should be observed:
- Wash hands frequently
Do not touch eyes, nose or mouth
Cover mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, use a paper tissue, throw it away, and then wash hands.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Upon return from at-home isolation due to flu, COVID or RSV, students and staff are encouraged to wear a well-fitting mask for 5 days.
Upcoming Dates to Remember:
April
April 22-23: 1 PM Dismissal
April 29-30: NJSLA Testing, All Grades
May (Teacher Appreciation Week: May 6-10)
May 1-2: NJSLA Testing, All Grades
May 6-7: NJSLA Science Test, Grade 8
May 6: JP Coaches Visit re: Fall Sports
May 9: Disco Dance, 6-8 PM
May 10: PTO Clothing Drive, 8:30 AM-2:30 PM
May 13: Orchestra Concert, 7 PM
May 14: Band Grade 6 Concert, 7 PM
May 15: Band Grade 7/8 Concert, 7 PM
May 16: Choir Concert, 7 PM
May 17: Music Dept. Trip to Great Adventure
May 22: Incoming 6th Grade Student Orientation (Woodbrook, Monroe)
May 23: Incoming 6th Grade Student Orientation (MLK, Menlo, JMI)
May 23: Incoming 6th Grade Parent Orientation, 6:30-8:30 PM
May 27: No School
May 30: 8th Grade Field Trip to Frogbridge
May 30: Vocal Music/Art Exhibition, 6-8 PM