Miner News
October 2020 Parent Newsletter
Welcome to the 2020-2021 School Year A Message from the Principal
As we began this new school year remotely, we did so with a renewed focus and commitment to supporting student academic achievement through high-quality and rigorous distance learning that addressed the needs of all our students. I have missed the crowd of middle schoolers, who literally giggle and scream as they run toward each other at first sight of a friend’s smiling face. I missed seeing teachers, of course, spending long hours decorating their classrooms with the periodic table of elements, a challenging mathematical equation, or a Shel Silverstein poem. Unfortunately, these moments did not occur for us this year. Despite the uncertainty that surrounds us, the start of a new school year was still an exciting time, not only for students, but for families, and our staff as well. In that spirit, it’s my pleasure to, once again, welcome you to Black Diamond Middle for the 2020-2021 school year.
I want to reassure you that we remain fully committed to providing a high quality distance learning experience for all students. Thank you to all of our families for entrusting us with the education of your children. We are grateful every school year, but especially amid a worldwide pandemic for this honor and privilege. We are motivated every day by our desire to see our students grow and, although it may look different this year... it still energizes us and fills us with hope. I’m very grateful to have amazing teachers and support staff who have truly stepped up their approach to distance learning. I would like to remind you that attendance is based on your student’s participation during distance learning; the engagement with their teacher during Teams meetings and the completion of their independent work. Thank you, again, for your continued support and here’s to a terrific 2020-21 school year! If you have any questions, please give me a call or email, anytime.
Please complete the survey to help us better understand your needs.
Report cards!
First Quarter report cards will be going out October 30th.
Conferences for the first quarter report cards will be held on November 2nd through the 6th.
**At this time we do not know if this will be virtual or in person but we will update you as we get closer to this week.
International Day of the Girl!
English 7th Teacher updates
This years conference week will be held on the week of November 2nd through the 6th.
At this time we do not know if this will be virtual or in person but we will update you as we get closer to this week.
Thanksgiving Break!
November 23rd through the 27th Student will resume virtual learning on November 30th.
Come meet the staff
Grades and Attendance!
If you know your student will not be able to attend a virtual class please call the attendance line and let us know. You can call the attendance line by calling (925) 779-7460 Ext: 40451or email anitadoss@antiochschools.net
Fun Activities and Photo Contest
You can find chalk and yard sign activities + printable activity sheets here: https://gosafelyca.org/kids-activities/
In addition, they are also offering a great opportunity for individuals 18 and older to win one of 5 laptop computers provided courtesy of iHeartMedia! Please share the following photo contest link with your staff and families. Hurry, the contest ends on October 23, 2020. We look forward to seeing your submissions!
Walk/Bike photo contest (must be 18+ older to enter): https://gosafelyca.org/photo-contest/
Quick Reads For Students and Parents from:
Need Technology Help?
- Make sure you are connected to the internet.
- Confirm you are entering your student ID number correctly.
- Make sure you are entering the correct email format @student.antiochschools.net
- If this is your first time logging in try antiochschools as the password.
- If you used a laptop last year, try your old password instead of the one above.
- Can't remember last years password? Try the reset my password option and follow the instructions.
- Call us and ask to speak with Travis at the Help Clinic on Mondays or send him an email travisabner@antiochschools.net
- If all else fails, give our technology team a call Monday-Friday 7am-7pm (925)779-7676 or send them an email to suport@antiochschools.net
*For help resetting your Echo password, you can reach out to one of your teachers.
We know this year will be different, so if you have any questions or concerns just let us know!
Call us at (925) 779-7460 Monday-Friday 8am to 4pm
Online Wellness room for Parents
Lunch information
FAQ Corner
Will there be parent conferences this year? Yes, November 2 to November 6th is conference week.
Will conferences be in person? as of right now we do not know but we will update you as we get closer to this day.
Why do students need Aeries, Echo and Teams? Student will be using Aeries for class schedule and grades, Echo will be used for assignments and teacher/student communications, and Teams is where the actual classes are taking place. Some of these applications are connected.
Where can I pick up lunch for my student? Breakfast and lunches can be picked up from designated schools from10am-12pm. For more details please see link above.
When will schools open for in person classes? A decision has not been made by our super intendant but it is being discussed.
Will I get a call when my student misses a class? We are still working on this but you are able to see your students attendance through your Aeries parent portal.
How do I create a parent portal? You can create a account by going to: antiochusd.asp.aeries.net/student and giving us a call to obtain your verification code.