Silver Creek Weekly Newsletter
February 19- February 23
Dear Silver Creek Families
We look forward to another great week of school. There is no school tomorrow, Monday, February 19, in recognition of President's day.
The sections marked with an * have been updated with new information OR is a new section in the newsletter. Please make sure to review. As always, thank you for your continued partnership. Let's make it a great week Huskies!
Bell Schedule
*Silver Creek News (SCN) News
Did you miss the latest Husky news. You may access the link below from Friday, February 16, 2024 to hear upcoming news & events: https://youtube.com/live/ggiWDoRwyOE?feature=share
You may also access the following document for the daily links to the Silver Creek News Show (SCN).
*Ride by the Rules: Bus Safety
As we continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of our students, I would like to take a moment to emphasize the importance of riding the school bus safely. Riding the school bus is a privilege extended to our students, offering a means of transportation to and from school. However, with this privilege comes a responsibility to adhere to all safety protocols and rules. It is crucial that all students understand the significance of listening to the bus driver at all times.
The bus driver is not only responsible for safely navigating the roads but also for ensuring the well-being of every passenger on board. By following their instructions promptly and respectfully, we can help maintain a safe and orderly environment for all of our students. As parents/guardians, I urge you to reinforce these principles with your children. Emphasize the importance of respecting the authority of the bus driver and following their directions without hesitation. Additionally, encourage open communication with your children regarding any concerns or questions they may have about bus safety.
Together, we can work towards fostering a culture of safety and responsibility within our school community. By prioritizing these values, we can ensure that every student enjoys a safe and secure journey to and from school each day.
Please review the bus rules and policies located on MCPS website located HERE.
*Student Town Hall Meetings
Last Week students participated in town hall meetings. Due to inclement weather on Tuesday, February 13, we have rescheduled our 7th grade town hall for this Tuesday, February 20. The Montgomery County State’s Attorney’s Office presented to our students. Students really enjoyed the presentation and had some great questions for our presenters. I encourage you to speak with your child about their experience. The presentation was focused on making good decisions and drug abuse prevention. You may see the presentation HERE.
Parent/Guardian Town Hall Meetings
We will have virtual parent/guardian grade-level town hall meetings on the dates/times listed below. The parent town hall meetings are informal discussions to provide grade-level specific updates and to share any specific activities and/or programs at Silver Creek. The team leader, counselor(s) and administrators for each grade level will be available during this time. We look forward to seeing you there!
Save the Dates (All meetings will be from 8:30 am - 9:10 am)
- Grade 6 - Friday, February 16
- Grade 7- Tuesday, February 20
- Grade 8- Thursday, February 22
Zoom Information Below:
https://mcpsmd.zoom.us/j/3181352418?pwd=TG5VeFpPdldhVk5KS21FZnUxdytsZz09
Meeting ID: 318 135 2418
Passcode: Heidler
One tap mobile: 1 301 715 8592
National History Day Projects
Congratulations to our Global Humanities 7 students for completing their National History Day Projects. Students have been working diligently since the start of the new year to research, draft, and complete their national history day projects in preparation for our school history fair. This year's theme was "Turning Points in History", and students selected a topic that had a major impact on history and culture. Student created exhibits, documentaries, papers, websites, and performances were on display for other students and staff to see in the media center.
We are looking forward to sending a few of our Huskies to represent Silver Creek Middle School at the county competition at Loiederman Middle School on March 9. You will be able to see some of our students' amazing projects on display at the Oratorical Contest on February 22, 2024 from 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Click here to check out some of the projects.
Oratorical Contest Celebrating Culture and Community: Thursday, February 22
Silver Creek is proud to announce an exciting event for our entire community, WE ARE the JOURNEY: An Oratorical Contest Celebrating Culture and Community, on Thursday, February 22, at 6:30 pm. Students will perform an original speech, poem, or other creative work, or recite the work of a published author. Families and community members are invited and encouraged to attend to support our student voices. Event is FREE and will be held in the SCMS cafeteria.
We look forward to celebrating Black History Month, our inclusive community, and our amazing student participants with all of you!
Silver Creek MS International Night: March 7, 2024
Join us for a celebration of diversity at International Night—an evening dedicated to embracing the various cultures from within our school, as we come together to dance, indulge in delicious cuisine, and to learn about the rich tapestry of traditions that make our school so unique. This evening is a way to celebrate the diversity of the Silver Creek Middle School community, in which many cultures from around the world are represented. See Flyer for additional information.
We need your help to make this evening a huge success! Please see Flyer for how to sign up.
We need:
International food dishes
Families to showcase their culture at cultural display tables
Cultural Performers (dancers, poets, musicians, etc.)
International Clothing, and Decorations (fashion show)
Parent Volunteers (before, during and after event)
Questions? Need more information? Please contact:
Mr. Holloran at Ryan_A_Holloran@mcpsmd.org and Mr. Myers Matthew_P_Myers@mcpsmd.orgFebruary is Black History Month
February is Black History Month which is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans. This is a time to recognize their central role in U.S. History and their struggles for freedom and equality.
In recognition of this month, we will draw upon connections with our Middle Years Programme and the lessons in P.A.W.S to underscore our learning with inclusivity, respect, and the appreciation of differences and perspectives. We will also integrate activities and acknowledge notable Black Americans on the morning announcements throughout this month.
7th Grade Field Trip to the National Museum of African American History & Culture: 2/27 & 2/28
We are excited to provide an opportunity for our students to further extend their learning beyond the classroom. As part of our commitment to providing authentic experiences, we are organizing a field trip for our 7th grade students to the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington D.C. The trip is scheduled for February 27th and 28th.
The grade will be split over two days by World Studies classes. See below:
- Tuesday, February 27- Students from Mr. Myers (6th pd), Mr. Hill (3rd, 4th, & 7th), Mr. Harrell (3rd) will attend the trip.
- Wednesday, February 28- Students from Mr. Harrell's (2nd, 4th, 6th, & 7th) classes will attend the trip.
Parent chaperones are needed to support our students with this cultural learning experience! If you are interested in chaperoning, please email 7th Grade Team Leader, Ms. Leah Taylor at leah_r_taylor@mcpsmd.org Please check with your child to see which day they will be attending the trip. (See the field trip letter attached here.)
Library Media Center
Happy February from the Library Media Center. Click here for our FEBRUARY MEDIA MONTHLY: News and Notes from the LMC. Read about Black History Month celebrations, instructional updates, and MORE!
Middle School Athletics Program: Spring Season
Spring athletics for the 2023-2024 school year are open to all 7th and 8th grade students. All athletes MUST be registered on ParentVue (even if they were previously registered for a different sport). Physicals (form SR-8) must be filled out by a medical professional prior to any type of participation. Physicals are valid for up to two years. Copies of the SR-8 form can be found HERE.
Practices/Games occur every Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday after school from 3:10-4:30, or later on game days. Registration for the upcoming middle school athletics spring season (boys’ and girls’ soccer) will be submitted through the ParentVue Portal., opened on January 29th, 2024. Tryouts will be held March 5th, 6th, and 7th.
Complete the Middle School Spring Athletics Online Registration located on ParentVue. Click here for helpful tips on accessing the registration form.
Please email sean_p_brennan@mcpsmd.org with any questions.
Counseling Department News & Updates
The February Counseling Connections Newsletter is located here: https://www.smore.com/8h0jg
In this edition you will find:
Opportunities to earn SSL hours
Ideas for raising middle schoolers
Resources for families
If you missed the parenting toolbox presentation from January 25- you may check out the slides HERE.
You may also check out resources about middle school children on the Counseling Website. If your family needs help with school supplies, food for the weekend, winter coats or other needs, we would like to help! Please fill out the following form below: https://forms.gle/gdTDMCSSgmU5pVQp9
If you have questions related to registration/enrollment or transcripts, please contact Latonya Abrom at Latonya_N_Abrom@mcpsmd.org
Please note: Transcript requests: Please request transcripts from the main page of the SCMS's website. You can find it under QUICKLINKS on the left hand side. This is the most efficient way to ensure Ms. Abrom, registrar, receives your transcript request. Questions? Call the counseling office at 240-740-2211
SCMS Outdoor Education- Chaperones Needed
Our 6th grade students will be attending Outdoor Education for three days and two nights at Camp Letts, in Edgewater Maryland at the dates below. This is a great learning opportunity for our students in so many ways.
- March 18 -20: ODE Session 1 (Mr. Bibeault's Science classes)
- March 20 - 22: ODE Session 2 (Dr. Marcum's Science classes)
Chaperones-
We do need several parent/caregiver chaperones for each ODE session. If you are interested in volunteering, please complete the Chaperone Interest Google form and then Mr. Bibeault will follow up with you.
Chaperone Interest Google Form: https://forms.gle/rCBE9443jmq8jnhD8
We will continue to provide Outdoor Education updates and reminders.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Mr. Bibeault, 6th Grade Team Leader, at Ryan_P_Bibeault@mcpsmd.org.
Homework Help
Homework Help is available Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 3:10-4:20 in Room 403. The purpose of Homework Help is to provide a quiet space for students to study and complete homework.
*Please note that this is not a tutoring program and therefore there is limited assistance available for students who need assistance with work or attaining concepts. Please contact Mr. Ed Eibel, Homewrok Help sponsor, at edward_e_eibel@mcpsmd.org for more information.
Intramurals: Attention all 6th-8th grade students
Intramural sports are designed to promote participation in sports to all eligible middle school students of all grade levels. There are no try-outs, no paper work and students don’t need much experience to participate. Intramurals take place after school on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and/or Thursdays from 3:05-4:30. Activity buses are available after every intramural session. Sample sports can include: basketball, football, soccer, badminton, tennis, volleyball, cross country, dance, weight training, track and field, kickball, capture the flag, etc.
As new classes come available, your child's PE and Health teacher will make announcements to their classes. It will also be posted on our school’s website and the intramural bulletin board in the PE hallway.
Yearbook Sales
We are excited to announce that SCMS Yearbooks are on Sale NOW. Mrs. Boyle, our Yearbook sponsor, and our Yearbook Club have been meeting after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays to start designing the 2023-2024 yearbook. Yearbooks are $30 until January 31, 2024. See the flyers below for more details on how to order your Silver Creek Yearbook.
Questions? Please email our yearbook sponsor at Jennifer_K_Boyle@mcpsmd.org
PARENT RESOURCES
Principal Coffee
We are excited to have principal coffees once a month on Fridays from 8:30-9:10 am.
The principal coffee for February is scheduled for Friday, February 23. The topic will be on Restorative Justice. The zoom link is below:
Zoom Link: https://mcpsmd.zoom.us/j/88146598517?pwd=ZG5Eem9LUFQvR1FBSm5pQUxGVXBXZz09
Meeting ID: 881 4659 8517
Passcode: Husky
One tap mobile : 13017158592
If you missed the last principal's coffee from Friday, January 26, you may view it below:
Parent Handbook
Please locate the parent handbook on our website. All the information you need is located here for your convenience.
https://sites.google.com/mcpsmd.net/silver-creek-parent-handbook/home
*Latest MCPS Updates from Thursday, February 15
Here are things to know from Thursday, Feb. 15. MCPS is inviting ALL students, staff, and families to share your input and overall satisfaction with your school, and/or office and district. Also, get information about a board public hearing to consider eliminating or modifying three MCPS programs, find out who the finalists are for the 2024 Teacher of Year, upcoming events and more!
MCPS School Piano Loan Program
MCPS has an agreement with Schaeffer’s Piano Company, Inc., to provide MCPS with new grand, upright, and digital pianos to be used in schools. This agreement also provides MCPS families and staff an opportunity to purchase these and other
pianos for considerably reduced prices at an annual piano sales event. This year’s liquidation sales event will take place February 17-25, 2024, at 105 North Stonestreet Avenue, Rockville, Maryland 20850. Sales will be by appointment only to provide an opportunity for you to purchase these pianos before they are offered for sale to the public.
For more information, please see the letters below:
Montgomery County Recreation Summer Camps
Montgomery County Recreation offers a wide variety of exciting summer programs throughout the County with an emphasis on safety, convenience, affordability, and most of all fun. There are a ton of summer programs designed to appeal to a variety of campers.
Please find additional information on how to register located on the website: https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/rec/activitiesandprograms/camps/
Free and Reduced Meals
The application is now open for parents and guardians to complete and submit for assistance with the cost of school meals. Families of students who may qualify for free or reduced-price meals can apply for this service. Eligibility is based on family size and gross income. Beginning this year, students in Maryland who qualify for reduced-price meals will not be charged for breakfast or lunch meals.
Upcoming Dates to Remember
February 16, 20, 22: Parent/guardian virtual grade-level town hall. 8:30 AM
February 19: President's Day Holiday- Schools and Offices Closed
February 22: Oratorical Contest- 6:30 PM
February 23: Principal Coffee- 8:30 AM (Via Zoom)
February 27 & February 28: 7th Grade Field Trip
March 1: Early release for students
March 5 & 6- MISA testing for 8th grade students
March 7: SCMS International Night- 6PM
Link to MCPS Calendar
Early Dismissal Reminder
If you need to pick up your child for an early dismissal, please send your child in to school with a note to give to the main office. This will help to facilitate your child being ready in a timely manner and will minimize any potential disruption to instruction. We greatly appreciate your cooperation.
Student Absence
If a student is going to be absent, the parent/guardian is asked to call the attendance line at 240-740-2201 the morning of the absence. In your message, please include the information listed below:
1. Parent/Guardian name
2. Full name of your student (First & Last); student ID#
3. Date(s)of absence
4. Reason for absence
If you have any questions regarding attendance procedures, parents may email a note to Ms. Pamela Carroll-Sykes, attendance secretary, at Pamela_M_Carroll-Sykes@mcpsmd.org
Important Contacts
Silver Creek Middle School
Principal: Dr. Tiffany N. Awkard
Assistant Principal: Mrs. Kimberly Heidler
Assistant Principal: Mr. David O'Shell
School Hours: 7:30 am- 4:00 pm
Main Office: 240-740-2200
Registration & Counseling: 240-740-2211
Attendance Line: 240-740-2201
Website: https://www2.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/silvercreekms/
Location: 3701 Saul Road, Kensington, MD, USA
Phone: 240 740 2200
Twitter: @SCMSDrAwkard