NHMS Newsletter
December 2, 2022
Principal's Principles
As we approach the holiday season, I am thankful for so many things. It’s also a great time for reflection. I am constantly reminded that we have fantastic students, and parents here at NHMS.
As I walk the halls, I see so many smiles, and acts of kindness it fills me with hope. Hope, that the next generation of students will build a better world. My biggest wish this holiday season is that acts of kindness become the latest Tik Toc trend.
I am very proud of the students that made honor roll the 1st quarter. I loved seeing the outpouring of support for all of our students.
As the principal, I have been observing our staff and the lessons they deliver. Our staff is trying hard to meet the real world challenges students will face when they move onto the next phase of their academic career. NHMS Teachers are academically challenging our students each day.
As we enter a “slow news” season, the next edition of the newsletter will not arrive until after the holiday break. Bring on 2023!
Until then, I wish you all a safe and joyous holiday season.
Staff Highlights
Support Services Superstar Award - Greg Testerman
Greg Testerman was awarded the Service Super Star recognition by the Superintendent sponsored by APGFCU.
Greg was bestowed this honor for his outstanding work and dedication to NHMS.
Thank you and congratulations Greg,
Student of the Month
Payton Williams has been awarded the October's Student of the Month from Dr. Bulson.
He was nominated for his kindness and being supportive to his peers and being a model student.
Please join me in congratulating Payton.
Honoring our Nations Veterans
School Expectations
Lockers
We have noticed that some students have been "presetting" their locks for ease of access. This practice does not secure their belongs, as others may discover that the locker can be opened. Please remind your child that they should not be sharing their combination or presetting their locks so they have a secure place to keep their belongings during the school day.
Safety and Security
We work closely with the Harford County Sheriff's office to maintain a safe environment at NHMS. Gestures and comments that are cause for concern must be investigated for validity. Staff will act with an abundance of caution to ensure our students are safe during the investigation.
Care for School
We want to see our students take pride in the building and be part of taking care of the facility. Recently there has been an increase in the damage being caused in the bathrooms. If students see something is broken or not working correctly it should be reported to the office so it can be addressed. If a student is found to be responsible for damage they will be billed for the necessary repairs as well as other potential consequences. As we mentioned in previous newsletters, our custodians work hard to keep our school looking good and to have the facilities ready for students, staff, and visitors.
Student Agendas
Students received agendas at the beginning of the school year. The expectation is for students to utilize them as a tool throughout the year. We are using them to log bathroom use, track homework assignments, and reminders for upcoming events. Students can purchase a replacement in the main office for $5 if needed.
Earbuds/headphones
Students should not have earbuds/headphones in during the school day unless directed to use them by their teacher. When needed for class they are expected to use wired earbuds/headphones.
Device Protection Plan
From November 1st through January 31st the Device Protection Plan cost will increase to $50. The Plan can be purchased at School Cash Online website. We strongly encourage all families to secure device protection
School Meals
You can preload your students account at My School Bucks: prepayment option (click on link).
Free and Reduced Meals
The meal benefit application can be completed online here on myschoolapps.com. If you are unable to complete the form online, a copy can be printed here and returned to school.If you apply and are approved for free and/or reduced meals this school year, you will automatically receive the student device protection plan.
*Please note that you must complete a free and/or reduced-cost meals application each school year. Prior applications do not apply.*
Academic Tutoring
Additional tutoring resources:
PTSA
Holiday Opportunities
Dates to Remember
December 6th - Chorus Concert
December 7th - Orchestra Concert
December 9th - 3 hour early dismissal
December 16th - 2nd quarter progress reports
December 23rd - 3 hour early dismissal
December 26th thru January 2nd - Winter Break
Counselor Corner
2023 Carson Scholars Scholarship
Eligible students should have received information in homeroom about the Carson Scholars Essay contest.
- Students who received a 3.75 GPA for first quarter are eligible
- Essays are due by email to their school counselor by Monday 12/12
- Students choose one essay (450 minimum words - 500 maximum):
- Students will also need a list of community service activities (if they have any) below their essay. List format is acceptable
If a student has questions about this contest they should talk with their school counselor.
2023 Carson Scholars Scholarship
Our scholarship program awards $1,000 college scholarships to students in grades 4-11 who excel academically and are dedicated to serving their communities. Students must attend an accredited K-12 school in the United States and be nominated by an educator at their school to be able to compete for a Carson Scholarship. In order for a student to be eligible for the award, they must have a GPA of 3.75 or higher and participate in community service activities. Only one student from each school can be nominated, unless otherwise told by a CSF staff member. For more information about our scholarships, visit https://carsonscholars.org/overall-process/.
Women in Math Essay Contest
The Association for Women in Mathematics (AWM) and Math for America (MfA) cosponsor an essay contest each year for students in three grade categories: Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12, and Undergraduate. It's open to any student in these categories: there are no restrictions based on gender, nationality, or anything else.
To enter, students interview a woman in a mathematical career about her life and work, and then they write and submit a biographical essay of about 500-1000 words based on their interview. If a student wants help finding a woman to interview, they can ask us -- we have a matching service that connects students with women mathematicians!
The contest doesn't open for submissions until December 1, 2022, but it's a good idea get started well before that.
Important dates:
- December 1, 2022: Contest opens for submissions
- January 10, 2023: Last day for students to request a match with an interviewee
- February 1, 2023: Entry deadline
Useful links:
- https://awm-math.org/awards/student-essay-contest/ : Essay Contest website with rules, an FAQ, submission instructions, previous winning essays, etc.
- https://awm-math.org/ : the Association for Women in Mathematics's website
- https://www.mathforamerica.org/ : Math for America's website
Who are School Counselors?
School counselors are certified/licensed educators who improve student success for ALL students by implementing a comprehensive school counseling program. School counselors design and deliver school counseling programs that improve student outcomes. At North Harford Middle School the school counselors will lead, advocate and collaborate to promote equity and access for all students by connecting their school counseling program to the school’s academic mission and school improvement plan.
The school counselors at NHMS will …
- help students apply academic achievement strategies
- help students manage emotions and apply interpersonal skills
- provide time for students to plan for postsecondary options
- set up individual meetings to express themselves, plan for the future, problem solve and set goals
- provide classroom lessons based on student success standards
- provide small group opportunities for students to grow
NHMS School Counselors
Susan Smith - susan.smith2@hcps.org
8th Grade and Dept. Chair
M. Devon Vogt - mark.vogt@hcsp.org
7th Grade
Hannah Bittner - hannah.bittner@hcps.org
6th Grade
Candy White - candy.white@hcps.org
Secretary
Office Phone: 410-638-3658
December Awareness Days
Read a New Book Month
Seasonal Depression Awareness Month
Safe Toys and Gifts Month
1-7: National Handwashing Awareness Week
2: Special Education Day
3: International Day of Persons with Disabilities
5: International Volunteer Day
10: Human Rights Day
15: Bill of Rights Day
18th-26th: Hanukkah
21st: Crossword Puzzle Day
25th: Christmas
26th: National Thank You Note Day
26th-Jan 1st: Kwanzaa
31st: New Year's Eve
NHMS Athletics, Clubs, and Activities
Club News
Club information and applications are available in the cafeteria. Students can talk to their school counselor if they have questions about any of the clubs.
After School Activities
AG club- 2nd Monday of month in band room until 4:00
Dungeons & Dragons Club- Thursdays
FCA - Fridays
GSA – selected Thursdays all year until 4:00
Game Club- 2nd & 4th Tuesday of month
Girls Club-Tuesdays (twice/month)
Jam Club-3rd Wed of month
Jazz Club
Mentoring -Wednesdays until 3:45pm
STARS 4th Tuesday of month
SGA 2nd Tuesday of month
Yearbook- 2nd & 4th Wed of month
Athletics
Community News
Substitutes Needed
Steps to be an ESSER Substitute Teacher - Existing Substitute Teachers:
- Send an email to SubSupport@hcps.org expressing your interest.
Steps to be an ESSER Substitute Teacher - New Substitute Teachers:
- Indicate Yes to ESSER Substitute Teacher on the Substitute Opportunities page of your application.
https://harford.tedk12.com/hire/ViewJob.aspx?JobID=5230
HCPS ESSER Substitute Teacher Pay Rates:
$165.00/day
Contact Human Resources Staff Management Department at 410-588-5238 for questions.
North Harford Middle School
Email: Daniel.Good@hcps.org
Website: https://nhms.ss18.sharpschool.com/
Location: 112 Pylesville Road, Pylesville, MD, USA
Phone: 410-638-3658