JTMS Counseling Newsletter
October 19, 2020
This Week's Events
Violence and Vandalism Awareness Week
As a part of Violence and Vandalism Awareness Week, JTMS encourages you to THINK before you SPEAK and THINK before you POST something online. Ask yourself these questions about what you are about to say or post…
… is it TRUE?- If you’re not sure, you could be telling a lie or spreading a false rumor, which can be really hurtful!
...is it HELPFUL? - Sometimes, if what you’re about to say or post won’t help, it can actually hurt
… is it INSPIRING? - Inspiring means uplifting, hopeful and positive- those are the nicest things things to say.
… is it NECESSARY? - Does the person need to know what you’re about to say? Or would it distract or bother them?
… is it KIND?- This is the most important thing to remember. Please be kind to each other with your words and your actions.
Daily Challenges to THINK this week
Parents/Guardians: How to Get the Most Out of Back to School Night
This year's Back to School Night is all virtual. It's on Thursday, October 22 beginning at 6PM. All videos of the administrators, counselors and teachers will be up on the MS Website at 6pm. Here are some tips for parents and guardians to make the most of this virtual open school.
Remember that we're all on the same team
Students parents, teachers and staff: we all want to see every student be successful and happy. We are all working very hard this year to help all students gain knowledge and learn new skills as they grow from children to adults. Back to School Night is a great opportunity for parents and guardians to learn how they can best partner with everyone on the team to make that happen.Notice things that you can talk with your child about later. The teachers will be giving you important clues about how to help your children. They might mention important resources, websites, or their favorite inside jokes with their classes. Knowing which teacher has the curly hair and which one has the cool poster on the wall can help you connect with your child when you talk about what they are learning.
Take notes if it helps you. Write down the important information that each teacher shares about their weekly schedules, google classroom and how the class is structured. Pause the video, rewind to make sure you catch what is said. Jot down a question that you can send the teacher in an email later.
Have fun! It won't be the same as wandering through the hallways of JTMS and maybe getting lost on the way to your child's next class, but at least you won't have to search for a parking spot!
Like and Follow Us on Social Media
Essentials with Miss Ellingsen
Everyday Mindfulness:
I think we can all agree that 2020 has been a different year than we expected. With added stressors we all need to make sure we’re taking care of ourselves, including our mental health. Practicing mindfulness throughout our day can be a good way to practice such self-care.
Some Helpful Links
Jefferson Township Middle School Counseling Department
Miss Ellingsen, Mrs. LaCatena, Mrs. Carroll and Ms. Martino
Email: scarroll@jefftwp.org
Website: www.jefftwp.org
Location: 1000 Weldon Road, Oak Ridge, NJ, USA
Phone: (973) 697-1980
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JTMS-Counseling-Department-101739465051089/
Twitter: @JTMSCounseling