2023-2024 TPMS Community Newsletter
April 1, 2024
Important Dates
STRIVE Recognition
As we continue to engage our students and staff around our core values of STRIVE, I invite all community members to acknowledge staff and students in an ongoing basis. To give a community member a shoutout, please click on the bar below and complete the form.
Happy National Assistant Principals Week!
I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge National Assistant Principals Week, which runs from April 1st to April 5th this year. This week provides us with a valuable opportunity to recognize and celebrate the hard work, dedication, and leadership of our assistant principals.
Our assistant principals play a crucial role in supporting our school community, fostering a positive learning environment, and ensuring the success and well-being of our students and staff. Their contributions are invaluable, and I am grateful for their commitment to our school's mission and vision.
Please join me in expressing our appreciation to our assistant principals for their tireless efforts and unwavering dedication by sending a quick message to Ms. Patterson-Breese, Mr. Williams, and Mr. Einhorn.
This Spring
Commitment to STRIVE!
As we prepare for the return to school tomorrow, I would like to take this opportunity to encourage you to engage your child in a meaningful discussion centered around the core values of STRIVE. At TPMS, we believe that fostering these values not only contributes to individual growth but also cultivates a positive and inclusive school community.
Here are the core values of STRIVE:
- S - Share responsibility for our community
- T - Triumph over challenges
- R - Respect the space we're in
- I - Inquire with thoughtful questions
- V - Value the worth of others
- E - Engage in our learning
Engaging in a dialogue with your child about these values provides an opportunity to reinforce the importance of character development and ethical behavior both inside and outside the classroom.
Here are some suggested discussion points to guide your conversation:
- Share Responsibility: Discuss with your child what it means to be an active participant in our school community. How can they contribute positively to their classroom, school, and beyond?
- Triumph Over Challenges: Encourage your child to reflect on past challenges they have faced and overcome. How did they demonstrate resilience and determination? What strategies can they use to overcome future obstacles?
- Respect the Space We're In: Explore with your child the significance of respecting the physical environment of our school and the people within it. How can they show respect for their peers, teachers, and school property?
- Inquire with Thoughtful Questions: Emphasize the importance of curiosity and critical thinking. Encourage your child to ask questions, seek understanding, and engage in meaningful conversations both inside and outside the classroom.
- Value the Worth of Others: Discuss the significance of empathy, kindness, and inclusivity. How can your child demonstrate appreciation for the diverse perspectives and experiences of others?
- Engage in Our Learning: Reinforce the importance of active participation and a growth mindset. Encourage your child to approach learning with enthusiasm, curiosity, and a willingness to take risks.
By reinforcing these values at home, you play an integral role in nurturing the development of responsible, compassionate, and engaged individuals. Thank you for your continued support in fostering a positive school culture grounded in the values of STRIVE.
Testing
During the 4th marking period, our students will be participating in MCAP testing. Please mark these dates on your calendar and avoid scheduling appointments or absences on those days.
- MCAP ELA: April 16th and 17th
- MCAP Math: May 9th
- MCAP Social Studies (grade 8 only): May 15th and 16th
- MAP Testing (grades 6 and 7 only): May 15th and 16th
If you have any testing related questions, please reach out directly to Gary Einhorn.
Celebrating Autism Awareness Month and Arab American Heritage Month
April is a month of celebration and recognition for two significant observances - Autism Awareness Month and Arab American Heritage Month. As we embrace the diversity within our school community, I am thrilled to highlight the importance of these observances and the opportunities they present for education, awareness, and celebration.
Tuesday, April 2nd, is Autism Awareness Day. We invite all community members to wear attire with positive/inclusive messages and/or clothing that is BLUE, the color of calmness and acceptance.
Autism Awareness Month serves as a reminder to promote acceptance, understanding, and inclusion for individuals on the autism spectrum. It is an opportunity for us to celebrate the unique strengths, talents, and perspectives of individuals with autism, while also raising awareness about the challenges they may face. As part of our observance of Autism Awareness Month and in partnership with our PTSA, we will be hosting various activities and events to promote acceptance, foster empathy, and celebrate the diverse abilities of our students.
Additionally, April marks Arab American Heritage Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the rich contributions and cultural heritage of Arab Americans to our society. Arab American Heritage Month provides an opportunity to learn about the history, traditions, and achievements of Arab Americans and to celebrate the diversity that enriches our school community.
Throughout the month, we will be showcasing the cultural contributions of Arab Americans through educational activities, presentations, and events. By highlighting the achievements and contributions of Arab Americans, we aim to foster cultural appreciation, understanding, and respect among our students and staff.
8th Grade Culminating Events
We are excited to share with our 8th grade families the culminating events! Here are the dates:
- June 7th: Six Flags Field Trip
- June 8th: 8th Grade Formal from 7-9pm at TPMS
- June 11th: 8th Grade Promotion from 6-7pm at Blair HS
Who to Contact
Takoma Park Middle School
Email: Erin_L_Martin@mcpsmd.org
Website: https://www2.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/takomaparkms/
Location: 7611 Piney Branch Road, Takoma Park, MD, USA
Phone: (240) 740-5220
Twitter: @TPMSPrin_Martin