The Tohickon Golden Eagle
October 2022
OCTOBER BEGINS!
Dear Tohickon Families,
We have had a great start to the school year! The month of September is one of the busiest of the year as we welcome our students back, acclimate them to the environment, hold several events such as student orientation assemblies, and host our annual Back to School Nights.
The month of October is typically a time when students settle into the year and really focus on school, whether it is for academics, co-curriculars, or both. As we move further into the school year, we want to remind our students and families that, in addition to sports, we have several clubs. We are fortunate to have so many teacher sponsors that want to provide unique activities for our students outside of the school day, whether it be art club, astronomy club, math club, forensics club; etc. We encourage all students to take advantage of these unique opportunities that are offered. All of the clubs that are currently offered are listed in detail within this newsletter below.
One of the biggest changes this year has been the expansion of our Intervention and Enrichment Program. We have gotten off to a great start with this! As you may know, we have expanded the program from two to four days per week, which has allowed us to increase our ability to provide students with support and extended learning opportunities. We continue to reflect upon the program and make adjustments in order to make it the best it can be.
Most importantly, we want to continue emphasizing the importance of home and school communication. As we move into the holiday months, it can be difficult for some students for various reasons. In an effort to make sure students feel safe, comfortable and happy in school, we ask that you reach out to us if you have any reason to believe this is not the case with your child(ren). All of us at Tohickon pride ourselves on communication and the home-school partnership. We are hopeful that you will reach out to us with any concerns!
In closing, I wish all of our families a great month! If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Tohickon Main Office at 267-893-3300 or the Tohickon Guidance Office at 267-893-3310.
Sincerely,
Kevin Marton, Tohickon Principal
OCTOBER CALENDAR OF EVENTS
October 5
- NO SCHOOL - Yom Kippur
October 18
- WUAL Survey for Students
October 20
- Parent Council Meeting at 9:00 AM
- Grade 7 Welcome Dance 7:00 - 9:00 PM
- NO SCHOOL - Diwali
October 31
- Half Day for Students - Dismissal at 10:45 AM
- Teacher In-Services PM
October Parent Council Meeting
We will be holding our monthly Parent Council Meeting on Thursday, October 20, beginning at 9:00 AM. The meeting will be in person and, for those that would like to attend, we will be sending out registration information at the beginning of that week. As always, we will have a featured presentation, followed by a period for questions and discussion. We hope to see you there!
Enrichment Opportunities (Photos Above)
In the month of September, several of our students were immersed in enrichment activities. Each day during I&E, a variety of enrichment activities are offered. Opportunities for creative thinking, math enrichment games and writing exercises have been popular choices from our Enrichment Menu.
ATTENDANCE
PARENTS/GUARDIANS ARE ENCOURAGED TO NOTIFY THE SCHOOL OF ANY ABSENCE. LATENESS OR EARLY DISMISSALS THROUGH THE PARENT PORTAL. Excused absences include illness, death in the immediate family, inclement weather that would jeopardize the safety of the student, religious holidays, home emergencies directly related to the student, health care of the student which cannot be arranged outside of school hours, and educational trips or family travel under the conditions outlined as per the School Board Policy. Please use the parent portal rather than send your child with a written absentee notice. If an absence has not been entered through the parent portal or call has not been received within one week of the absence, it will remain marked as unexcused. We strongly encourage submitting a doctor note if your child has missed three or more days of school or has missed school due to a scheduled appointment.
Lateness:
A student is considered late if they are not in their seat in 1st period by the second bell at 7:30 AM. Students must report to the office (with a note from their parent/guardian explaining their lateness) to receive a late pass in order to gain admittance to class. Such reasons as missing the bus, oversleeping, etc. are not valid excuses for lateness. On the third unexcused tardy, an administrative conference will be arranged. If the problem persists, stronger measures may be taken. Late time may be accumulated and count toward unlawful absences from school.
RX FUNRAISING/RITE AID
Please help Tohickon raise funds by registering below:
Share Good News About Tohickon Students!
Tohickon Students achieve amazing things and make a difference in school and in the community. Share your story about the accomplishments and good work of a Tohickon student with Mr. Marton at kmarton@cbsd.org so that he may highlight this good news in an upcoming edition of the Tohickon Golden Eagle online newsletter.
AFTER SCHOOL CLUB INFORMATION
General Information About After-School Clubs
In order for clubs to run, a teacher must be willing to sponsor the club after school and there must be a reasonable level of student interest. For these reasons, Tohickon clubs may be different from year to year. Currently, Tohickon runs the following clubs:
Art Club - Sponsored by Mrs. Thomas and Mrs. Hallman-DiCicco
Description: This is a relaxed and creative atmosphere where you can meet new friends who enjoy Art. No previous experience required.
Location: Art Rooms 114 and 115 • Dates: Selected Wednesdays (10/12, 10/26, 11/2, 11/9, 12/7, 12/14, 1/11, 1/25, 2/8, 2/15, 3/1 & 3/8) • Times: 2:35ish till 3:45 PM. Students must arrange transportation pick-up at 3:45.
Astronomy Club - Sponsored by Miss Gresko
In this club you will build and use a telescope, learn about and observe constellations (both circumpolar and seasonal zodiac), famous stars and their various colors, visible planets, the moon, and other space objects in the night sky. We will focus on the various things that you can see in the fall, winter, spring, and summer night skies. Pick up an interest form outside of Miss Gresko's classroom (room 304).
Diversity Club - Sponsored by Mrs. Fox
The mission of Tohickon’s Diversity Club is to promote understanding and acceptance of social misconceptions and foster respect for all individuals that we encounter throughout our lives. We will utilize inspired discussion and activities among our peers to raise enlightenment of current social issues and we will try to break down the barriers of stereotypes. Meeting dates are advertised on the Morning Show.
Farm to Fork - Sponsored by Mrs. Flath
Farm to Fork is a service-oriented club that focuses on harvesting and preparing crops from the Tohickon garden. Students will spend time outside during the Fall and Spring collecting herbs and vegetables as weather permits. In addition, students will learn how to wash, trim, prepare and cook, if applicable, the food for use in the FCS classroom and to offer as community donations. Students who enjoy fresh foods and cooking, as well as those who are looking for community volunteer opportunities are encouraged to join. This club is open to all Tohickon students in grades 7, 8 and 9. Stop by room 408 and speak with Mrs. Flath or e-mail her at yflath@cbsd.org. Meeting dates advertised on the Morning Show.
FITNESS/EXERCISE CLUB - Sponsored by Mrs. Heath
No experience needed; times-2:30-3:30 WEIGHT ROOM - Students must arrange transportation.
In this club, you will have the opportunity to work out in the school weight/exercise room and/or walk around the school. Meeting dates: 9/13, 9/15, 9/20, 9/29, 10/4, 10/7, 10/11, 10/13, 10/18, 10/20, 10/25, 10/27, 11/3, 11/10, 11/15, 11/17, 11/22, 11/29, 12/1, 12/6, 12/8, 12/13, 12/15, 12/20, 1/10, 1/12, 1/17, 1/19, 1/24, 1/26, 1/31, 2/2, 2/7, 2/9, 2/16, 2/21, 2/23, 2/28, 3/2
Forensics Club - Sponsored by Miss Gresko
In this club you will learn about the forensics that goes behind crime scene analysis. We will focus on the evidence and conduct experiments to understand the science of forensics. Some things you will learn about are collecting evidence, handwriting analysis, footprint analysis, hair analysis, and fingerprint analysis. Pick up an interest form outside of Miss Gresko's classroom (Room 304).
Garden Club (seasonal) - Sponsored by Mr. Neely
Students will have the opportunity to work in the garden after school as weather permits. In the Fall we tend to the beds so that Farm to Fork Club and FCS departments have the vegetables and herbs needed for students. We will then plant seeds and seedlings in the Spring and weed as needed. This club is open to all Tohickon students in grades 7, 8, and 9.
History Club/Mock Trial - Sponsored by Mr. Paulus
Math Club - Sponsored by Mrs. Bellavance
Math Club is open to Tohickon students in all grades and any math level. The goal of Math Club is to give students an opportunity to engage in unique math activities and games in a relaxed social setting. All meetings begin with a Mathcounts Problem of the Week, and then we play a game or do an activity to explore a math concept in a deeper way. There are always good snacks and fun at Math Club. It is a great way for students to challenge their math skills and meet other students at Tohickon who enjoy math.
Meditation Club - Sponsored by Mrs. Fox
Tohickon’s Meditation Club will allow students to practice both sitting and walking meditation, breathing techniques, mindfulness activities (music, art, etc.), and simple yoga. It will be a place to relax and also, hopefully, help students to regulate their emotions. Students will be “unplugged” for the duration of the club.
Morning Math Help Club - Sponsored by Mrs. Bellavance
Morning Math Help Club is a place for students of any grade and math level to receive extra math help before the school day begins. Morning Math Help occurs daily, Monday through Friday, from 7:00 – 7:20 AM with Mrs. Bellavance in Room 201. Students interested in attending Morning Math Help should come right to room 201 when they arrive at Tohickon in the morning (at 7AM or whenever their bus arrives at school). Please let the hallway teacher know that you are attending Morning Math Help before going upstairs to room 201.
Reading Olympics - Sponsored by Mrs. Fox
Reading Olympics is a countywide event that encourages students to increase the quality and quantity of books they read for enjoyment. The Reading Olympics is based upon research which shows that good reading habits form the foundation for a productive and successful life. Reading Olympics is designed to inspire students to read for pleasure and learn the value of teamwork at the same time! This year’s competition will be online (Kahoot) and we will compete between April 19 and April 29. Sign-up can be found in the Library Canvas Course. We will begin our afterschool meetings in mid-to-late October.
Studio Club - Sponsored by Mrs. Fox
Additional time for the Morning Show students to discuss ideas and film segments for the morning show.
If you are interested in joining one of the clubs at Tohickon or have any questions, please see the club's sponsor in order to sign up.
STUDENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT
Our Central Bucks “Guidance” Department will now be known as “Student Services” Department. We are making this name change K-12 to better represent the wide-range of services that our Department provides to students and families across the district. While we certainly provide “guidance” to students, our School Counselors, School Psychologists, Student Support Social Workers, Student Support Counselors, and Nurses provide services including academic planning; college and career planning; social and emotional programs and initiatives; physical wellness; connections to community resources (financial, housing, food, services); and educational record management. We look forward to seeing students and families in our Student Services Office!
We have a new member to our department! Mrs. Kaitlin Wolfinger will be helping us support the Emotional Wellness needs of our students this year. She will also be facilitating discussion groups along with Mr. Stryker and Mrs. Schute. Please encourage your child to take advantage of the many group offerings that occur during school hours.
Discussion Groups
This year the school counselors at Tohickon Middle School will conduct discussion groups with the student body. These groups usually consist of six to eight students under the supervision of one of the counselors. Some discussion groups are facilitated in conjunction with the school psychologist or a certified counselor from a community agency.
Discussion groups are confidential in nature and are intended to help the youngsters cope with everyday situations. Participation in a group is on a voluntary basis. These groups are not therapeutic. Topics discussed may include study skills, divorce, bullying, anger management, adjusting to a family move, peer pressures, alcoholic tendencies in family dynamics, better communication with parents, etc.
Groups are open to all students. If you do not want your child to participate in such discussion groups or if you would like your child to participate in a particular group, please call the Student Service Department at 267-893-3310 and inform us of your wishes.
From the Nurse's Office
Welcome back! The school year is in full swing, and we need your help with updated student health information through the parent portal. This allows us to administer ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and Tums to your child. We have seen many students in need of an inhaler and not having the diagnosis or proper paperwork in our system. We need Action Care Plans and Medication Dispensing Forms completed to best care for your child. Please reach out to discuss. Children may only carry an inhaler on them with the proper documentation on file and after completing a competency.
Cold symptoms are on the rise and a personal supply of cough drops is recommended. No other medication is allowed to be carried without a physician’s order, even over the counter medicines. We encourage all students to carry a water bottle to keep hydrated during the day. Water filling stations are available in multiple locations throughout the school.
FREE BREAKFAST BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 2022!
A grab and go breakfast is available to ALL STUDENTS AT NO COST when they come in from the bus in the morning. Encourage your child to grab something to eat and have a good to start their day 😊
Notice for all 7th Grade Students
The Pennsylvania state mandated Dentals are due by October 15, 2022. This is required for all current 7th graders. The dental exam may be dated any time after September 1, 2021 to satisfy this requirement. Please email shkelly@cbsd.org with your child’s updated dental forms and/or information or send in with your student to drop off at the nurse’s office. Thank you for helping to complete this important requirement.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FROM THE ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT
Tohickon winter sports begin soon! Registration is now open for all 7th and 8th graders that would like to try out for a sport at Tohickon. Winter sports include Cheerleading, Wrestling, Girls and Boys Basketball. Registration is completed online. Directions can be found at: Sports Registration Directions. Registration deadline is October 28th for Girls Ball, November 11th for Wrestling and Cheerleading, and January 6th for Boys Basketball. We are looking forward to many students participating in winter sports this year. Please encourage your child to get involved. Reach out to Athletic Director Ken Hall at khall@cbsd.org with questions.
EAST vs. WEST FOOTBALL
Who's ready for the annual East vs West Game? The CB East Patriots are hosting The CB West Bucks on Friday, October 28th at Patriot Stadium. The OFFICIAL Game Day shirt is on sale now through September 30th! Shirts are available in Youth Small - Adult 4XL. Feel free to message the organizer Elizabeth CBEFB.VP@gmail.com if you have questions and/or CLICK HERE to order.
- Bags and backpacks are NOT permitted into the stadium during athletic events. Small purses or clutch bags are acceptable but are subject to search. Spectators will not be admitted with a bag or backpack.
- Outside food and drink is prohibited. Bottled drinks and food should be discarded prior to entering the stadium.
- No glass bottles, open containers or coolers allowed in stadium without authorization by the athletic director or game manager. Coffee, tea, hot chocolate during cold contest will be permitted.
- No artificial noise makers, whistles or sound producing devices (horns, cow bells, etc.).
- Taunting will not be tolerated by demonstrating / celebrating or running by opposing teams bleachers upon a big play or touch down.
- No banners, pictures or hand-held signs carried into the contest. All signs need prior approval from athletic director and need to be fixed or attached to fencing in a designed spot prior to the start of the contest.
- No foul language or indecent gesture will be tolerated especially towards players, coaches and officials.
- Tailgating is prohibited without prior approval from the athletic director.
- No throwing of confetti, toilet paper rolls or other objects in the stands, stadium or on the field.
- No menacing actions or gestures by groups towards opposing players, coaches or officials.
- The use or throwing of balls inside the stadium is prohibited.
- No one can run onto the field or to play ball during halftime or after the game. Exceptions: ball boys for extra points, field goal kicks, etc.
- At no time, before, during or after a contest should spectators be permitted to enter the competition area.
- Access to competition area is limited to participating student-athletes, coaches, officials and game personnel.
Tohickon Middle School
Email: kmarton@cbsd.org
Website: cbsd.org
Location: 5051 Old Easton Road, Doylestown, PA
Phone: 267-893-3300