Hello Families,

As you know, we have completed a difficult week at school with numerous challenges. After Tuesday's protest and the unrest that followed we planned for a late start on Wednesday and students met with teachers in their House groups at the beginning of the day. This allowed us to process feelings and clarify events from Tuesday. Throughout the day, we had spaces for students to gather outside of class in affinity groups. We had counseling/social worker supports for students as well as a confidential Title IX reporter on campus. We are continuing to prioritize student safety and using house time to build a stronger sense of community. The upcoming week in house will focus on revisiting school norms and expectations and setting goals for the upcoming quarter. We know you are wanting to share your feedback with us and we have a scheduled a family meeting for Wed, November 10. Link information will be sent out on Wednesday. The district has also agreed to numerous building supports, such as providing a campus security associate. These changes will be discussed on Wednesday as well.

We have also had bright spots despite the challenges. Monday marks the beginning of second quarter. Leadership students successfully organized and carried out spirit week. We have successfully completed MAPS testing for all grades and in Book Club, which meets before lunch, students have just finished or are nearing completion of their first novel, Freak the Mighty.

As we transition to colder and wetter fall weather, we are preparing to utilize indoor eating more and more. Students and staff will be doing their best to maintain a layered approach to student health and Covid safe practices, washing/sanitizing hands often and always before eating, maintaining social distancing to the maximum extent possible, wearing masks when not actively eating and drinking.

What can families do to support learning at RHMS?

• Remind students that wearing a mask is not just a school rule, it is a way that we care for one another. Many students are living or in close contact with elders, people who are immunocompromised, or very young.
• Remind students that the best way to resolve conflict is by talking directly and respectfully to one another. When that becomes challenging, encourage your student to seek support/mediation from a trusted adult in the building. Social media is almost never a helpful tool for resolving differences.
• Continue talking with your students about events at school and communicating with us if students are in need of additional supports during the day. We are here to help.

November is Indigenous Heritage Month

November 10: Family Meeting

November 11: No School - Veterans' Day

November 12: No School - Professional Development

November 22 and 23: Online Parent/Teacher Conferences

November 24-26: No School

December 8: Eight Grade Virtual Information Night for McDaniel High School 6:00 pm

The PTA has generously asked what is needed by teachers at RHMS. For families who wish and are able to contribute, the following items are currently in high demand:

For House Time

Uno - card game

Masks:

Rainbow

Black

Masks in sizes small and xl

Donations for the Student Store

Rubics Cubes

BLM Pins

Chips

Tech Decks

We have noticed some congestion and unsafe conditions on N.E. 72nd Ave in the morning and afternoon. We have changed protocols from last year to allow bus loading/drop-off to be closer to the building for students. This is especially important as the driver shortage is continuing to cause delayed busses and longer wait times. Personal cars are no longer allowed in the parking area where busses enter. Instead, please use NE Alameda to park and wait or drop off your student safely. The street is wide and has very little congestion.

We would like to be sharing more photos of student events at school. Please be aware that you may request your student's photo not be published in our newsletter or on the pps website.

If you do not want photos or video of your child published, please complete the form below and return it to the school office.

Publicity Denial Form