GRADE 6 ADVISORY 

Over the first month of school, our advisory sessions have focused on helping students build a strong foundation for the year academically, socially, and emotionally. Students have reflected on their personal strengths and goals, explored what it means to belong to a community, practiced routines like checking PowerSchool and organizing their materials, and participated in team-building activities to strengthen their connections with classmates.

Over the next few weeks, we will begin preparing for student-led learning conferences. Students will reflect on their growth so far, set goals, and learn how to take ownership of their learning as they get ready to lead their conference.

At home, you can support this work by asking your child about their advisory reflections and the goals they have set for themselves. Encourage regular check-ins of PowerSchool together, and talk about what routines work best for staying organized. Simple conversations about their school day, especially who they are connecting with and how they are managing their time, can help reinforce the skills we are building at school.

GRADE 7 ADVISORY

Last week, we had a field trip to Valle Abedules for zip lining, ropes courses, and wall climbing. Additionally, "All About Me" presentations continued, helping us learn more about each other. 

This week, on Monday, we had a special greeting and weekly set up, addressing the issue of students leaving trash behind at Valle Abedules, which prompted a campus cleanup. Additionally, we practiced active listening through various activities. On Friday, we had a special assembly presented by Dr. Derrick Gay.

We recently reviewed expectations for the Flex Space as well as after-school activities procedures with students. We truly appreciate your continued partnership in reinforcing these routines at home. Together, we can ensure a safe, supportive, and engaging environment for all students. 

GRADE 8  ADVISORY

This week, students have participated in MAP testing on Thursday and Friday, and prepared for this ahead of time. We also enjoyed a Special Assembly on Wednesday where students we explored the theme of belonging through the lens of song! This session highlighted the importance of positive self-talk from a mental health point of view, and how to manage your inner-critic. 

GRADE 8 AFTER-SCHOOL OFF CAMPUS PRIVILEGE

Grade 8 students who have submitted the Grade 8 After-school Off-Campus Privilege Form may go off campus beginning on October 8 at 4:00 and return to campus at 5:00 to take the activities bus or attend a late sports practice. Students in grades 6 and 7 do not have this privilege. Once grade 6 and 7 students leave campus at 4:00 P.M., they may not return to campus. Parents should be aware that some students go off campus at 4:00 P.M. to hang out with friends at the mall or in the local neighborhood. Friday is often a popular day for students to gather off campus after school. We kindly ask that parents be aware of their children’s after-school plans. 

AFTER-SCHOOL PROCEDURES

Parents and students should be familiar with our MS After-school Procedures. Please ask the Middle School Director if you have any questions about these procedures.

EXTENDED LEARNING LABS, OFFICE HORUS, AND FLEX SPACE

The Middle School provides two key opportunities for students to seek out extra help with their academic progress. Students can receive individual and small group assistance after school, beginning at 4:00 P.M. The Teacher Office Hours document indicates when teachers are available for drop-in assistance. Also, the Middle School offers extended learning labs from 4:00-5:00 P.M. in three key areas: Math, Writing, and Spanish. The MS Extended Learning Labs begin on September 29.

TUTORING

Throughout the school year, we learn that some students receive tutoring outside of school. Parents are reminded to contact the Middle School support teachers before seeking tutoring or professional support for their children. Eric Hofschire, our Middle School learning support teacher, will advise parents about the need for outside support. The Middle School has an extensive academic and social/emotional support system in place at school. Most students' academic and social/emotional needs can be met by the resources that we have at school. Our learning support team will recommend tutoring only in exceptional cases. 

FROM THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE

If your family is being transferred during this academic year, please contact Admissions - admissions@asmadrid.es 

BIRTHDAY SNACK IN MS

Students are welcome to bring in a snack to share with their advisory to celebrate their birthdays.  We ask that students not bring in snacks to share with their friends, as this can lead to students feeling left out or food frenzies during break and lunch times.  Parents are kindly reminded not to bring surprise treats to their children during the school day, including at lunch time.

PUNCTUALITY IN THE MIDDLE SCHOOL

Punctuality is very important in the Middle School. We kindly ask that parents drop their students off at no later than 8:45 A.M. This allows the students plenty of time to walk from their car to the MS building, pick up their materials from their lockers, and move on to their first class. 

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

Parents, please mark your calendars for these key MS events.

• Oct 9-14: MS MAP testing 

• Oct 13: No school

• Oct 15: Early release day. Students are dismissed at 13:45.

• Oct 30-31: Learning Conferences. Note that conferences are virtual. Students do not attend school on these days. More info about conferences will be published soon.