SMS Weekly Update
3.8.24
Message from the Principal
What a great week we had here at Stevenson! Our students and staff came together to create a memorable and fun-filled week, fostering a positive and engaging learning environment at our Family Meetings yesterday. You will see from the pictures below that all the meetings were filled with celebrations and fun. We had a great time!
Another huge accomplishment for our school was finding out that we won the NWEA Winter Competition for the second year in a row. We get to keep the trophy here for another year. Congratulations to all students from Franklin, Adams, and Stevenson. Everyone did their absolute best and made all of us so proud of each and every one of them.
From spirited pep rallies, spirit weeks, and Family Meetings to collaborative classroom projects, our middle schoolers showcased their talents, creativity, and teamwork. As we reflect on this week's festivities, let us draw inspiration from the wise words of Nelson Mandela: "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." Our commitment to providing a well-rounded education is evident in the joy our students experience while learning and growing together.
I want to express my gratitude to our dedicated teachers, supportive parents, and, most importantly, our incredible students for making this week a resounding success. Together, we are shaping the leaders of tomorrow, instilling a love for learning that will propel them toward a bright and promising future.
Wishing you all a wonderful weekend and looking forward to many more amazing experiences ahead.
NWEA Competition Results
STEVENSON WON!
Our students did such a great job in this competition. So many of our students met their growth goals. We are so proud of them. Congratulations to Stevenson Middle School! We get to keep the big trophy here for at least another year. Way to go, Saints!
Second Step Update - 3/8/24
Our school celebrated SEL Day with creating a Periodic Table of Social Emotional elements with each classroom adding comments about what strategies, terms, and ideas support each topic. Check it out!
Family Meetings
Thursday we had our monthly family meeting with each grade level to celebrate goals met, give out their next challenge for March, give out awards to our incredibly deserving students, and, of course, to have some fun! At this meeting we rewarded students that had zero tardies for the last week an opportunity to pie an administrator or behavior team member of their choice in the face.
6th Grade Grammy Nominees
7th Grade Grammy Nominees
8th Grade Grammy Nominees
Pie in the Face!
Students with no tardies were entered into a raffle to pie the administrator or behavior team member in the face. The students had so much fun doing this! We may even consider doing this again. We shall see! :)
Grammy Award Winners
Each student below was recognized individually for their hard work in class, dedication to making Stevenson proud, and following their RAPS. They each received a free meal coupon to Texas Roadhouse and also a Grammy for their RAPS skills with their name engraved on it.
Congratulations to each of our students!
Our next Family Meeting will be on April 4th.
Mr. Teevin and Brayden Coleman (6th Grade)
Ms. Davis and Allanna Bynum (6th Grade)
Mr. Moschetta and Gerald Caver (6th Grade)
Mr. Sylvester and Brooklyn Johnson (7th Grade)
Mr. Abate and Mika LeBlanc (7th Grade)
Ms. K and Aubree Whitehead (7th Grade)
Mr. Smorch and Peyton Oakley (8th Grade)
Mrs. Jacklin and Lillian Fisher (8th Grade)
Mr. Evasic and Wynter White (8th Grade)
Grade Level Goals
Each grade level is challenged each month in a specific area to work on and be celebrated towards that success at the next Family Meeting. Take a look at each of the grade level presentations to see what focus areas are assigned to each group.
Book Fair
Come to Family Night at Stevenson!
Join us on Tuesday, March 19th for a night of books and blankets with the family. We will provide food for all family members in attendance. Please be sure to RSVP (link is under the graphic) so we know how much food to order for dinner.
We look forward to seeing you all there! It's going to be great!
Pizza with the Principal
RAPS Weekly Focus for February
Inside the Classroom
Congratulations to all of the students who presented their National History Day Projects Saturday at the Detroit Historical Museum. Jacob Gines's website (EDSA: Power to the People), Alyeska Stewart's paper (Black Thursday, 1929), Savannah Herring's paper (Anne Frank's Diary), and the Group Website created by Miles Raines and Ryleigh McMillan (Haitian Revolution) have been invited to present at the State Level Competition in April at Central Michigan University.
Congratulations to our incredible students!
Compassion Project Winner
Congratulations to 7th grader Sylvia Holdwick for being chosen as Stevenson Middle School's Compassion Project winner! She earned this title by showing how compassionate, understanding, and helpful she is to her fellow students. Sylvia was recognized earlier this week at the Westland City Council Meeting. Congratulations Sylvia!
Black History Month Research Projects
Mr. Edwards, Ms.Davis, and Mrs. Lindow’s classes researched many scientists, inventors, and engineers for Black History Month in a cross curricular collaboration of epic proportions! So many amazing people! So much learning! The students did an amazing job tying it all together!
Spring Picture Day is Coming Up!
8th Grade Field Trip- Discover Your Path
8th Grade Dance Information and Agreement Form
Please view the attached pdf to read the expectations and agreement that needs to be signed for your child to attend the 8th grade dance in May. Thank you!
March Events
National Women’s History Month, March
Women's History Month is an annual observance dedicated to celebrating the contributions and achievements of women throughout history. It is celebrated each March and is a time to reflect on the significant roles women have played in shaping society, culture, politics and various fields of work. It is celebrated in many countries around the world, including the United States, the UK, Australia and Canada. In the United States, Women's History Month was first officially recognized in 1987, following a petition by the National Women's History Project. During Women's History Month, various events and activities are organized to honor the achievements and struggles of women. These can include lectures, exhibitions, film screenings, panel discussions and performances that highlight women's contributions in various domains. Additionally, it is a time to raise awareness about contemporary women's issues and advocate for gender equality.
https://www.womenshistory.org/womens-history/womens-history-month
https://nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org/womens-history-month/
International Women’s Day, March 8, 2024
International Women's Day is a global day celebrated on March 8 each year. It is a day dedicated to celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women, as well as a call to action for gender equality. People all around the world celebrate International Women's Day, including individuals, organizations, governments and businesses. By celebrating International Women's Day, people come together to honor women's accomplishments, inspire future generations and advocate for a more inclusive and equitable society for all genders.
https://www.internationalwomensday.com/about
Ramadan, March 10-April 9, 2024
Ramadan is a month-long Islamic holiday in which Muslims around the world engage in fasting and spiritual reflection. It is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, and its exact start date varies year-to-year as it is based on the sighting of the crescent moon. Those who are physically and mentally able to do so, fast from dawn until sunset each day during Ramadan, refraining from food, drinks, smoking, and intimacy during daylight hours. The fast is broken each night with a meal called ifṭār, which is often shared with friends and family. In addition to the physical act of fasting, Ramadan is also a time for increased spiritual reflection, prayer and charitable acts. Ramadan is celebrated by engaging in various spiritual practices, such as reading the Qurʾān, performing additional prayers (called tawarīḥ) and giving to charity. The celebration of Ramadan culminates in a holiday called Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan and the breaking of the fast. On this day, celebrants gather in large groups to perform special Eid prayers and celebrate with food, gifts and new clothes.
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Ramadan
St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, 2024
St. Patrick's Day is an annual cultural and religious holiday that celebrates the patron saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick. It is observed on March 17, the traditional death date of Saint Patrick. Originally a religious feast day, St. Patrick's Day has evolved into a vibrant celebration of Irish culture and heritage. It is widely celebrated by people of Irish descent and those who simply enjoy joining in the festivities. The holiday is marked with various customs and traditions including parades, traditional Irish music and dance, consumption of Irish food and drink, social gatherings where people wear green attire, and decorating with shamrocks. While St. Patrick's Day is a festive occasion, it is important to remember the cultural and historical significance of the holiday, as well as show respect for Irish traditions and customs. It is a time to honor Irish heritage and the contributions of Irish immigrants to various countries around the globe.
https://www.history.com/topics/st-patricks-day
Purim, March 23-March 24, 2024
Purim is a festive Jewish holiday celebrated annually in late February or early March. It commemorates the events recorded in the biblical Book of Esther. This holiday is celebrated by Jews around the world, especially those of Persian descent. It is celebrated by reading the Book of Esther, dressing up in costumes, participating in parades or carnivals, feating, and exchanging food and gifts. Special pastries called "hamantaschen," are typically filled with fruit or poppy seeds, and are eaten during the holiday.
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Purim
https://www.chabad.org/holidays/purim/article_cdo/aid/645309/jewish/What-Is-Purim.htm
Palm Sunday, March 24, 2024
Palm Sunday is a Christian holiday that commemorates the triumphal entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem. It falls on the Sunday before Easter Sunday and is celebrated by Christians around the world. The name "Palm Sunday" comes from the practice of people waving and laying palm branches on the ground to welcome Jesus as he rode into Jerusalem on a donkey. This act symbolizes Jesus' humble entry and the crowd's recognition of him as the Messiah. The celebration typically begins with a special church service where palm branches are distributed to the congregation. Processions may also take place, with participants carrying palm branches and singing hymns. The priest or minister usually reads Bible passages recounting Jesus' entry into Jerusalem. It marks the beginning of Holy Week, leading up to Easter Sunday.
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Palm-Sunday
Holi, March 25, 2024
Holi is a Hindu spring festival celebrated on the full moon day of Phalguna, usually falling in February or March. It is also known as the "Festival of Colors" or the "Festival of Love" emphasizing joy, love and the victory of good over evil. Holi is celebrated by Hindus around the world, as well as by communities of Indian origin in other countries. The festival is characterized by vibrant colors, music, dance and joyous celebrations. People gather in public spaces and throw colored powders and water at each other, symbolizing the arrival of spring and the blossoming of love and happiness. In addition to the playful color-throwing, Holi also involves feasting, singing traditional songs, and enjoying sweets and other festive foods.
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Holi
https://www.britannica.com/story/holi-festival-of-colors
Good Friday, March 29, 2024
Good Friday is a Christian holiday observed on the Friday before Easter Sunday. It commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Many churches hold special services, often in the afternoon or evening, where the Passion of Christ is read or enacted. Sermons and hymns focusing on Jesus' crucifixion are also prominent. It is a time for believers to remember the immense love and forgiveness shown by Jesus by his willing sacrifice. For some, the observance of Good Friday may also include acts of fasting or abstinence from certain activities or luxuries as a sign of mourning and remembrance. It is considered a day of somber reflection, humility, and gratitude for Christians as they remember the crucifixion and death of Jesus, anticipating his resurrection on Easter Sunday.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Good_Friday
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Good-Friday
Easter, March 31, 2024
Easter is a Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the hope of new beginnings that it represents. It is one of the most important events in the Christian faith and is observed by Christians worldwide. The celebration of Easter typically involves attending church services, where the resurrection story is told, hymns are sung and prayers are offered. Beyond the religious aspect, Easter has been embraced as a cultural holiday by people from diverse backgrounds. The Holiday is often associated with various traditions and customs such as Easter egg hunts, where children search for chocolate or colored eggs hidden in outdoor or indoor settings. Decorating eggs, exchanging Easter baskets and gathering for family meals are also common practices. Special dishes, such as roast lamb or ham and hot cross buns are also commonly enjoyed.
https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/history-of-easter
Virtual Community Forums
- Threat Assessments and Internet Safety- Please join us for a virtual community forum on Wednesday, March 13 from 6-7 p.m. Link to PDF flyer and Zoom link https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87961543561
- Alternatives to Guardianship and Self Determination for students with special needs- Please join us for a virtual community forum on Wednesday, February 28 from 6-7 p.m. Link to PDF flyer and Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/s/89223197925#success
Cold Weather Reminders
We have been experiencing quite a bit of cold weather here in Michigan. We know that winter weather can take a toll on school attendance. Snow, ice and rain can make it hard to get children to school. So can illnesses such as colds, flu, fevers, earaches, etc. Here is some information to help keep your children healthy and in school this winter.
Develop backup plans for getting your children to school. Can someone give them a ride to school if your child usually walks or stands at a bus stop?
Dress for the weather. Even a short walk in frigid weather can be dangerous. Ensure your child has a warm coat, gloves, hats and boots. Elementary students will also go out for recess if the temperatures, with wind chill, are above 20°. Remind older children that a hoodie is not an outdoor coat.
Resources are available. If you need help with winter clothing, please contact your child's school for assistance.
Sick children should stay home. School attendance is important, but sick children should not be at school. Also, if your child becomes ill during the school day, have a backup plan for who can pick them up if you are unavailable.
If your children needs to stay home for a prolonged period due to illness, talk to your child's teacher to find out about resources and class assignments they can do at home to keep learning once they feel well enough.
What about snow days? Information about our inclement weather procedures can be found on our website.
Early College
Wayne-Westland Early College provides students an opportunity to simultaneously complete the high school diploma and an associate degree at no cost to families. To learn more, visit www.wwcsd.net/earlycollege
Stevenson Staff GEM Award
Do you know of a staff member at Stevenson Middle School that is consistently Going the Extra Mile (GEM) for your child? Please take a moment to nominate them for our Stevenson GEM award. They will be put into a monthly drawing for a prize for their hard work to make Stevenson such a great place for our students.
Order Your Yearbook Today!
IRS Update
The Internal Revenue Service wants to share the following information with families.
Child Tax Credit (CTC): The CTC is a credit that may reduce your tax by as much as $2,000 for each child who qualifies you for the credit. To qualify, the child must be a U.S. citizen under age 17, have a Social Security number, be claimed as a dependent on the taxpayer's tax return, and more. Use the IRS Interactive Tax Assistant tool to determine eligibility: Does My Child/Dependent Qualify for the Child Tax Credit or the Credit for Other Dependents? For more information, please see: Child Tax Credit | Internal Revenue Service (irs.gov)
Other Dependent Credit (ODC): The ODC is a credit that may reduce your tax by as much as $500 for each eligible dependent. The person is claimed as a dependent on your return; the person can’t be used by you to claim the CTC or Additional CTC; the person was a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or U.S. resident alien. Again, use the IRS Interactive Tax Assistant tool to determine eligibility: Does My Child/Dependent Qualify for the Child Tax Credit or the Credit for Other Dependents?
Note: The credit amount for family’s CTC or ODC may be reduced if their modified adjusted gross income (AGI) is more than $400,000 for married filing jointly filing status or $200,000 for all other filing statuses.
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): One refundable tax credit for moderate- and low-income families is the Earned Income Tax Credit. The IRS estimates there are millions of workers who qualify but don't claim the EITC - missing out on thousands of dollars every year. The EITC is as much as $3,995 when claiming one child, $6,604 when claiming two children, and $7,430 when claiming three or more children. Use the EITC Assistant to learn if you're eligible for the tax credit. For more detailed information, see Publication 596, Earned Income Credit.
Note: Adjusted gross income limits are used to qualify families for EITC.
Child and Dependent Care Credit: Taxpayers who paid someone to care for their child, spouse, or dependent so they can work, be a full-time student, or look for work may be able to reduce their tax by claiming the Child and Dependent Care Credit. The total expenses that you may use to calculate the credit may not be more than $3,000 (for one qualifying individual) or $6,000 (for two or more qualifying individuals). Use the IRS Interactive Tax Assistant tool: Am I Eligible to Claim the Child and Dependent Care Credit? For more information, please see: Publication 503, Child and Dependent Care Expenses or Topic no. 602, Child and dependent care credit | Internal Revenue Service (irs.gov).
Attendance Update
Regular attendance is crucial for your child's academic success. Please make every effort to ensure your child attends school on time every day and stays throughout the whole day. Consistent attendance throughout the school day allows your child to engage in learning and maximize their educational opportunities fully.
Illness: If your child is not feeling well and cannot attend school, please notify us immediately. Students who are ill should not attend school to prevent the spread of illness to others.
Excused Absences: We understand that there may be instances when your child needs to be absent due to illness, medical appointments, family emergencies, or other legitimate reasons. Please notify the school in advance whenever possible to classify the absence as excused.
Unexcused Absences: Unexcused absences negatively impact your child's education. Absences without valid reasons will be considered unexcused, and appropriate actions may be taken per district policy.
Timely reporting of absences helps us maintain accurate attendance records and ensures that your child's absence is properly documented. Absences must be reported within 24 hours.
There are two convenient methods for reporting your child's absence to facilitate efficient communication and accurate attendance records.
You can notify your child's school through the dedicated attendance line. Please leave a detailed message stating your child's name, grade, and reason for absence.
You can report absences directly through MiStar, our secure online portal for student information. MiStar provides a user-friendly interface that allows you to submit absences.
Thank you for your ongoing support in creating a positive and productive learning environment for all our students.
Family Resource Center Information
Mental Health Support
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If you ever have any questions or concerns, please reach out to one of us directly at domank@wwcsd.net (Student Last Names: Br-Me) or phillipsae@wwcsd.net (Student Last Names: A-Bo & Mi-Z).
Sincerely,
Mrs. Doman and Ms. Phillips
Last Names A-Bo & Mi-Z- Ms. Reinink, reininkk@wwcsd.net
Last Names Br-Me- Mrs. Shecter, shecterc@wwcsd.net