The CMS Tide Weekly Newsletter
March 15, 2024
Term 3 Begins Monday
Check Aspen to find your term 3 schedule (under My Info/Schedule
This Week at CMS
Research Class Sustainability Showcase
The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind - Malawi Day 2024
After reading the autobiography The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind in grade 6 ELA, Students' understanding of William’s culture and the challenges he faced was enhanced through Malawi Day. The day commenced with a screening of the film adaptation followed by a discussion comparing it to the book. Subsequently, students were given an update on the progress of their current fundraiser for William Kamkwamba’s foundation. So far, they have raised just over $1,400.00! To conclude the day, students tried traditional Malawian dishes and put their engineering skills to the test through a windmill competition. The students displayed confidence when tasked with the challenge of building their own windmills from recycled materials, just as William did. They were successful in their work and demonstrated true creativity, innovation, and critical thinking!
March Madness in the Classroom!
Grade 7 students spent the early release day Thursday, 3/14/24, on a fun March Madness-themed spirit day full of activities, team challenges, and friendly competition. Each utility group represented an institution of higher learning: Providence College, University of Alabama, University of Connecticut, University of North Carolina, or Princeton University.
Students spent the morning rotating between different fun activities and scored points for their teams based on their knowledge, creativity, and cooperation. The day culminated in a celebration in the gymnasium where each school showed off their ideas for a new CMS mascot, performed a halftime show dance, and cheered on their fellow classmates as they competed in knockout, keep it up, and scrimmage basketball tournaments. Thanks to the hard work of the 7th grade teachers and the sportsmanship and spirit of the students, there was fun and cheer for all!
The winning school will be announced Monday morning!!!!
Fostering a Love for Reading: 8th Grade Book Buddies
Thursday was a heartwarming day as our 8th-grade students embarked on a special journey to the Osgood School. Their mission? To spread the joy of reading to the eager ears of the first-grade students.
Accompanied by their teachers, our 8th graders arrived at the Osgood School ready to listen to some amazing first grade readers. As they settled into the cozy corners of the first-grade classrooms, the air buzzed with anticipation.
The magic truly began when the first grade students opened their books and started to read their favorite books aloud. The middle school students listened intently, their eyes wide with wonder, as they immersed themselves in the stories woven by their younger peers.
This heartwarming activity not only promotes a love for reading but also fosters mentorship between students of different ages. The eighth graders, in their roles as reading buddies, not only serve as storytellers but also as role models for the younger children, showcasing the importance and joy of literacy.
Witnessing the exchange of smiles, laughter, and shared excitement between the 8th and 1st graders was a testament to the power of this simple yet impactful activity. It's moments like these that remind us of the beauty of community and the importance of nurturing relationships across grade levels.
As we reflect on this wonderful experience, we eagerly look forward to future visits and the opportunity to continue fostering a culture of reading and mentorship within our school community. Together, we can inspire a love for learning that will last a lifetime.
Perseverance is the Key to Success
As educators and parents, we often ponder what drives our children toward success. While talent may seem like the golden ticket, recent research and experiences in education suggest otherwise. The true determinants of success lie in perseverance, grit, and the adoption of a growth mindset.
Perseverance, the ability to persist through challenges, and grit, the resilience to overcome obstacles, are crucial attributes that foster achievement. In the face of difficulties, students who persevere continue to strive, learn, and grow. They understand that setbacks are not roadblocks but rather opportunities for growth and improvement.
Furthermore, embracing a growth mindset is essential. This mindset teaches children that their abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and effort. With a growth mindset, students are more likely to embrace challenges, learn from criticism, and persist in the face of adversity.
Rather than focusing our praise only on a final grade or the ease with which our children may complete assignments, we should be also looking for opportunities to praise students' willingness to struggle and not quickly give up. Contrary to popular belief, talent alone does not guarantee success. Without perseverance, grit, and a growth mindset, talent may remain dormant and unfulfilled. It is the combination of these qualities that propels students toward their goals and aspirations.
As parents, we can nurture these attributes by encouraging our children to embrace challenges, celebrate their efforts, and learn from failures. By instilling perseverance, grit, and a growth mindset, we equip our children with the tools they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally at CMS and for the rest of their lives.
Please review the parent resources on perseverance found below
Reminder
Parents--How are we doing?
One of the central goals of the CPS Strategic Plan is to expand opportunities for families to be engaged in school practices with the goal of improving communication and sharing responsibility for student learning.
To that end, the CMS School Council asks you to complete this survey to help us identify areas of parental concern and ideas for continued school improvement.
2024 CMS School Council Parent Survey (click here)
Thank you for sharing your perceptions. Please submit one questionnaire per family no later than March 15, 2024.
CMS Sights and Scenes
Ms. Lantier, CMS STEM Teacher, consults with a student on the design of a recycled materials rocket.
CMS 2nd Annual Mosaic Event
"We are excited to announce our 2nd Annual Mosaic Event. It will be hosted at the Cohasset High School on Thursday April 11 from 6-8 PM. We will be having dance performers, drummers, and food from different cultures around the world. We hope you can all join us!”
The Nurse's Corner
Grade 6 Postural Screening
School Screenings
The 6th Graders have completed their postural screenings. If you have not heard from me, there were no abnormal findings noted on your child’s screening.
The Cohasset Middle School will begin annual school health screenings for Grade 7 on 3/20/24
Massachusetts Department of Public Health requires all school systems in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to provide postural screenings to students in Grades 5 through 9. The purpose of this is to find early signs of possible spinal problems. It is not a diagnostic service, but a program to identify young people who should have further medical evaluation.
The Massachusetts Department of Public health also requires vision, hearing, and Body Mass Index (BMI) screening to be performed on students in Grade 7. BMI is calculated using a student’s height and weight. BMI data will be collected and reported to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health as a combined number.
Your child’s screening will take place in the nurse’s office. If your child has any abnormal findings, you will be notified.
If you do not want your child to participate in any of these screenings, please email me by 3/19/22. If you have already opted out through the 2023-2024 Confidential Health Form, you do not need to contact me.
Thank you,
Thank you,
Nurse Erin
Erin Kalberer, APRN
Cohasset Middle School Nurse
143 Pond St, Cohasset, MA 02025
Phone: (781) 236-1070
Fax: (781) 236-1040
Parent Need to Knows
Inquiry: Interest in Restorative Circle Participation
As parents of an early adolescent, you're likely experiencing a myriad of emotions as you witness your child's growth and navigate the challenges that come with this stage of development.
There is no doubt that parenting an early adolescent can be both rewarding and challenging. During these times, it's essential to have a support system in place where you can openly discuss your experiences, seek advice, and gain support from others who may be going through similar situations.
While there are various resources available, including family, friends, educators, and service providers, sometimes what parents need is a space specifically designed for open dialogue and mutual support. This is where our restorative circles come into play.
Restorative circles offer a unique opportunity for parents to come together in a safe and supportive environment to share their thoughts, experiences, and challenges. Led by our Assistant Principal, Dr. Kate Salas, who is trained in leading restorative circles and brings years of experience supporting parents, these circles provide a platform for meaningful conversations and collective problem-solving.
By participating in a restorative circle, you can connect with other parents facing similar situations, gain new perspectives, and receive support and encouragement. It's a space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to navigate the ups and downs of parenting an early adolescent.
If you're interested in learning more about restorative circles or would like to join us for an upcoming session, please complete this FORM. Your participation would be invaluable in creating a supportive community for all parents involved.
The Power of Attendance: A Pathway to Success
In the bustling halls of Cohasset Middle School, every absence creates a ripple. Attendance isn't just about showing up; it's about unlocking the doors to opportunities and shaping a child's future.
Consistent attendance isn't merely a matter of compliance; it's a commitment to growth and learning. Students who attend regularly not only absorb the curriculum but also develop essential life skills such as responsibility, time management, and perseverance.
Moreover, attendance plays a pivotal role in academic achievement. Students who are present have more opportunities to seek clarification, participate in hands-on activities, and deepen their understanding of concepts.
Every day counts, every lesson matters, and every moment shapes a child's journey. As parents, your encouragement and support are invaluable in fostering a culture of attendance. By prioritizing attendance, we empower our students to seize the myriad of possibilities that await them.
Important Upcoming Dates
February 19: No School - President's Day
February 20 through February 23: No School - February Break
March 14: Trimester 2 Ends at CMS
March 14: Half Day: Professional Development 1/2 Day
March 15: No School - Professional Development Full Day
March 22: CMS Report Cards Available in Aspen
March 26 & 27: Full Day of School at CMS
Free Parenting Resources
Massachusetts Partnerships for Youth (MPY) is pleased to announce its new MPY Parenting Solutions Library. The MPY Parenting Solutions Library is offered at no charge, in partnership with Peace At Home Parenting Solutions, a non-profit located in Mansfield, Connecticut. Peace At Home Parenting Solutions is a dynamic hub of trusted knowledge and compassionate support that inspires parents to create positive change for their children, their families and themselves. Through this new partnership, MPY is pleased to offer proven resources to help students’ families thrive.
Peace At Home Parenting Solutions specializes in empowering parents with evidence-based strategies to foster nurturing connections that safeguard their children's mental well-being. The trainings are presented by experts with advanced degrees and the trainings focus on child and adolescent development, including difficulties in school, mental health challenges, neurodiversity, LGBTQ+ identity formation, racism, and grief. These trainings present easy-to-use strategies for long-lasting change.
Attendance Need to Knows
Massachusetts General Law Chapter 76 requires that each school notify parents and guardians if their student has five (5) or more unexcused school absences. Parents and guardians will receive a letter when their child has 5, 10, and/or 15+ days of unexcused absences. The letter will also include the number of unexcused tardies and unexcused early dismissals.
Absences will be excused under the following circumstances:
After a medical appointment documented with a note from the medical office
Illness or quarantine with a note from the appropriate medical office
Observance of a religious holiday
Bereavement or serious illness in family
Court appearance
A child may also be excused for other exceptional reasons with approval of the Principal or designee in accordance with the school committee policy and the regulations set in Chapter 76
Daily attendance is essential to a student's success. Missing a significant number of days of school has a detrimental effect on academic and social development. Therefore, each school will work with individual families to support student attendance.
SafeHarbor A Great Partner
Since July 2014, Safe Harbor Cohasset has been working to promote awareness and implement resources to help make an impact on the substance use in the community. The group has members from across the spectrum in the community, including, but not limited to, Paul Pratt Memorial Library, Cohasset Recreation Department, Cohasset Police Department, Cohasset Public Schools, Second Congregational Church, town leaders, health professionals, parents, youth, fire personnel, and concerned citizens. In September 2017, Safe Harbor was awarded a federal Drug- Free Communities (DFC) Support Program grant, which focuses on preventing substance use among youth ages 12-17.
Since then, the group has worked to foster a strong and inclusive community that allows youth to strive and encourages healthy, educated and responsible choices about drug and alcohol use. The mission is supported by evidenced based, prevention focused, sustainable policies and youth- focused programs, such as Ground Level Café and the Safe Harbor Youth Ambassador Program. To learn more, and to find resources for both parents and teens, visit the Safe Harbor website at safeharborcohasset.org. Keep up to date on the latest news and trends by following Safe Harbor on Facebook at www.facebook.com/safeharborcohasset, on Twitter @cohsafeharbor, and on Instagram @safeharborcohasset.
You're Not Alone: Community Resources
Oftentimes when dealing with personal or family issues, we feel overwhelmed because we lack experience and expertise with handling these issues. We want to be sure our families know that they are not alone--there are many resources on the South Shore that can help.
Community Resources
Wellspring Multi Service
Website: wellspringmultiservice.org
Address: 814 Nantasket Ave Hull, MA 02045
Phone: 781-925-3211
Contact: Jenny Gerbis, Community Outreach, ext. 127, jenny@wellspringmultiservice.org
Baystate Community Services
Website: baystatecs.org
Address: 1120 Hancock Street, Quincy, MA 02169
Phone: 617-471-8400
Email: info@baystatecs.org
Cohasset Food Pantry
Address: 129 So. Main Street, Cohasset, MA 02025
Phone: 781-383-0219 ext. 25
Cohasset Rotary Club
Website: cohassetrotary.org
Email: cohassetrotaryclub@gmail.com or pwmcohassetrotary@gmail.com
Interfaith Social Services
Website: interfaithsocialservices.org
Address: 105 Adams Street, Quincy MA 02169
Phone: 617-773-6203
Email: info@interfaithsocialservices.org
Safe Harbor Coalition Cohasset
Website: safeharborcohasset.org
Address: 35 Ripley Road, Cohasset, MA 02025
Phone: 781-783-5293
Contact: Nicole Balaschi, Program Director,
Email: safeharborcohasset@gmail.com
Chinese philosopher Sun Tzu observed "In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity."
These are certainly difficult times and many parents and families are experiencing great stress. Our ability to cope is regularly challenged and, understandably, there may be times when individuals can no longer manage their emotions. It is important to know where to turn when we reach that point.
To help our families, we share this contact list of support providers--Mental Health and Crisis Contacts These support providers offer great opportunities to help receive help when those we love are struggling to manage.
The CMS Tide, Our Weekly School Newsletter
We call it the CMS Tide because just as the tide brings to us treasures from the deep and leaves them on the beach for us to discover, The CMS Tide brings to our community the news, images, and stories about life at CMS each week,
We hope you enjoy each issue this year!
Cohasset Middle School
Website: https://www.cohassetk12.org/Domain/9
Location: 143 Pond Street, Cohasset, MA, USA
Phone: 781.383.6100
Twitter: @comsprincipal