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Our school nurse, Ms. Hunt, is our Fire Ribbon winner for this week

Week of February 23

Staff Spotlight - Ms. Hunt

This week’s winner is our dedicated and committed school nurse, Ms. Hunt. She works tirelessly each day to ensure the health and wellness of our Sligo students. Last week’s winner, Ms. Diaz, shared this about her: “For her compassion, professionalism, and the countless ways she supports our school community, Ms. Hunt truly embodies what it means to unleash potential.”

Student Spotlight

Our students participated in an engaging activity in Ms. Lubitz’s math class called “Dancing Parabolas,” bringing quadratic functions to life through movement and creativity.

Our girls’ and boys’ basketball teams are on a roll, each earning two consecutive wins against Newport Mill and Briggs Chaney Middle Schools. Way to go, Stallions! 🏀

Students in Ms. Lubitz's class are involved in a kinestetic learning activity (top). Our girls' basketball wear special jersey's (bottom) before a home game this week to honor Jeffrey Ago

Our counseling registrar, Ms. Diaz

Week of February 15

Staff Spotlight - Ms. Diaz

This week’s winner is our amazing and dedicated counseling registrar, Ms. Diaz. She was nominated by last week's winner Dr. Redder wrote the following:

"Ms. Diaz truly embodies Unleashing Potential through her steadfast support of students and staff. She consistently goes above and beyond to connect with families, often making thoughtful calls to share sensitive and important information with care and compassion. Her responsiveness, helpfulness, and expertise in welcoming and enrolling families new to Sligo ensure that every family feels supported from day one. We are deeply grateful for her dedication and heart."

Student Spotlight

This week in 7th grade science, students completed a laboratory investigation by conducting a cow eye dissection.

Students in Ms. Sayed's class complete a Cow Eye dissection lab

Our Assistant Principal, Dr. Redder

Week of February 8

Staff Spotlight - Dr. Redder

This week’s winner is our amazing and dedicated assistant principal, Dr. Redder. She was nominated by last week’s winner, Mr. Mitchell. Dr. Redder’s leadership and unwavering support of students and staff have made a lasting impact on Stallion Nation. Your energy, enthusiasm, humor, and sense of fun make Sligo the place to be.

Student Spotlight

Students in Mr. Duplisea’s class participated in a light reflection and refraction lab to learn about how light behaves when it reflects off surfaces and passes through different materials.

Students in Mr. Duplisea's class participate in a laboratory investigation

From Left to Right: Ms. Diaz, Mr. Cheriff, Mr. Chambers, and Ms. Bacon

Week of February 1

Staff Spotlight - The Sligo MS Counseling Team

Last week was National School Counseling Appreciation Week, and we would like to thank and recognize Ms. Bacon, Mr. Chambers, Mr. Cheriff, and our registrar, Ms. Diaz for all that they do each and every day for the students, staff, and families of the Sligo Middle School community.

Their compassion, empathy, support, and care are truly remarkable. They are the best of the best in MCPS!

Please take a moment to share a message with our counselors to let them know how much they mean to our Sligo community.

Student Spotlight

Our winter basketball season resumed with a girls’ basketball win on our home court earlier this week! Our cheer team continues to energize and excite both our players and the crowd at every home game

Girls' Team won their game against Takoma Park MS by a score of 22-18.

Week of January 11

Staff Spotlight - Unleashing Potential: Mr. Richard

We are excited to recognize our long-time and dedicated security assistant, Mr. Richard Oppong Ansah.

Mr. Richard was nominated by last week’s winner, Mr. Hoben. On a consistent basis, Mr. Richard demonstrates dedication and care, going above and beyond to support our Sligo students. He is a steady and committed staff member who will do anything to ensure the safety and well-being of both students and staff at Sligo Middle School.

Thank you, Mr. Richard, for all that you do.

Student Spotlight

This week, our talented Stallions took the stage to showcase their singing, dancing, and performance skills in the annual Talent Show.

Due to the cold weather, it is necessary to remain indoors for some of our lunch periods. We are fortunate to the PTSA approved our purchase of various board games to play during indoor lunch.

Our talented Stallions showcased their skills in the annual Talent Show on Thursday, 1/15.

On the bottom, two 8th grade students play with the newly acquired games to use during lunch donated by the PTSA

Week of January 5

Staff Spotlight - Unleashing Potential: Mr. Justin Hoben

We are excited to recognize Mr. Hoben as our "Fire Ribbon" Staff/Teacher of the Week! Mr. Hoben is one of our 7th grade team leaders and is consistently a positive role model, especially in the way he supports and connects with the kids. His patience, encouragement, and dedication truly makes a difference. He is always willing to share ideas and work as part of a team, which makes our 7th grade team stronger and more supportive. He rocks!

Mr. Hoben was nominated by last week's winner, Ms. Lubitz. .

MCPS Staff Award Winners

Sligo Middle School is proud to announce our Teacher of the Year and Rising Star Teacher of the Year.

Our Teacher of the Year is Ms. Beverly Parks, our long-time instrumental music teacher. Ms. Parks is well known throughout the school community for her lasting impact on students and families at Sligo Middle School. Congratulations, Ms. Parks!

Our Rising Star Teacher of the Year is Mr. Daniel Free. This award is given to a teacher within the first three years of their career. Mr. Free is a talented 6th grade social studies teacher, and we are fortunate to have him as a member of the Sligo staff.

Congratulations to both of our outstanding winners!

Ms. Beverly Parks (top) and Mr. Daniel Free (bottom) are our 2025-2026 Award Winners

Ms. Lubitz, our "Fire Ribbon" winner of the week

Week of December 15

Staff Spotlight - Unleashing Potential: Ms. Audrey Lubitz

We are excited to recognize Ms. Lubitz as our "Fire Ribbon" Staff/Teacher of the Week! Ms. Lubitz is a talented and committed 7th grade team leader and math teacher. She is consistently well organized, keeps her classes running smoothly and on schedule, and supports both students and colleagues through her strong leadership.

Ms. Lubitz was nominated by last week's winner, Mr. Shallom.

Student Spotlight

Our 6th grade students traveled to Baltimore for a field trip to the Maryland Science Center! Students enjoyed watching a movie in the IMAX® Theater and exploring the interactive exhibits throughout the museum.

Thank you to our team leaders, Ms. Dorsey and Ms. Shuchatowitz, for planning the trip, and to our many 6th grade teachers who volunteered their time to chaperone and support our students.

One of our paraeducators, Mr. Joshua Shallom, is our Fire Ribbon winner this week.

Week of December 8

Staff Spotlight - Unleashing Potential: Mr. Joshua Shallom

This week, we are proud to recognize our paraeducator, Dr. Joshua Shallom, as our Fire Ribbon Award recipient. He was nominated by last week’s winner, who shared that Dr. Shallom is a truly valued member of the Sligo staff.

After years of working in the sciences, Dr. Shallom joined the Sligo community and now supports students across a wide range of academic areas, including science, math, history, and English. His mild-mannered nature, patience, and kindness resonate with both students and staff, creating a welcoming and supportive learning environment.

Dr. Shallom’s professionalism is evident in his role as the Elected Staff Representative for SEIU union employees, where he thoughtfully advocates for others. He also leverages his strong academic skill set to help students confidently tackle challenging assignments. Beyond the school day, Dr. Shallom generously shares his time by coordinating the Sligo Homework Club, providing additional support to students who need it most.

We are proud to recognize Dr. Shallom as this week’s Fire Ribbon Award winner for the many ways he helps students unleash their potential each and every day at Sligo Middle School.

Student Spotlight

Our amazing teachers and team leaders have planned fun and engaging field trips throughout the year — and there are more to come!

Yesterday, our 7th graders visited the Baltimore Aquarium.

Next week, it’s the 6th graders’ turn to head to the Maryland Science Center on Thursday, December 18th.

Our 7th graders visiting the Baltimore Aquarium

Our Staff Spotlight winners from the last two weeks, Ms. Ferman and Ms. Reineke. Not pictured: Ms. Goodwin

Week of December 1

Staff Spotlight - Unleashing Potential: Ms. Lori Goodwin, 8th Grade Team Leader

This week we recognize our 8th grade team leader and English teacher, Ms. Lori Goodwin. Ms. Goodwin is an exceptional team leader who supports teachers and students by promoting recognition opportunities such as Honor Roll and Straight A celebrations, and by planning fun and engaging field trips. She is already hard at work organizing end-of-year events for the 8th grade class! Thank you, Ms. Goodwin, for all that you do for the Sligo community.

Pictued on the left, our last two Fire Ribbon award winners, Ms. Ferman and Ms. Reineke. Not pictured: this week's winner, Ms. Goodwin!

Student Spotlight

Our amazing teachers and team leaders have planned fun and engaging field trips throughout the year — and there are more to come!

This past week, half of the 7th grade visited the Baltimore Aquarium, and the second half will go this Friday, 12/12.

Next week, it’s the 6th graders’ turn to head to the Maryland Science Center!

Fun was had during our 7th grade field trip to the Baltimore Aquarium

Our annual NJHS Induction Ceremony

Week of November 24

Staff Spotlight

This Week at Sligo MS...

Our Sligo staff had the opportunity to meet and conference with many parents and guardians on Monday afternoon, and we truly enjoyed getting to know more of our Sligo community.

On Tuesday afternoon, during our annual Staff–Student Volleyball Game, our staff members had a great time facing off against our students.

Student Spotlight

On Monday evening, our newest inductees to the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) were officially welcomed as members of Sligo Middle School. Congratulations to all of our new members!

Thank you to Ms. Natale for being our staff sponsor!

Lots of fun was had at our annual Staff vs. Student Volleyball game

Week of November 17

Staff Spotlight Week #13 - Unleashing Potential - Ms. Natalie Reineke

For this week’s Fire Ribbon Award, we are proud to recognize our ELD teacher, Ms. Natalie Reineke.
Ms.Reineke was nominated by Ms. Ferman, who shared:
“I am nominating her for her unwavering commitment to serving students, especially EML students. Her thoroughness with follow-ups to ensure students stay on track and make progress is greatly appreciated by parents. She truly stands out for how much she cares.

Thank you, Ms. Reineke, for your hard work, positivity, and unwavering dedication to the Sligo Middle School community!

Student Spotlight

This was our last full week of school before Thanksgiving Break. In 6th grade science, students presented their SSL projects, showcasing their learning and service to the community. In Ms. Maffeo’s classes, students learned school supplies by watching — and singing along to — a catchy song about the contents of a backpack.

Our grade-level Honor Roll recipients were celebrated during Advisory for earning Honor Roll for the first marking period. Congratulations to our Honor Roll and Straight A recipients.

Students in Ms. Reineke's class work on a skit inspired by the Power Rangers.

Week of November 10

Staff Spotlight Week #12 - Unleashing Potential - Ms. Marta Ferman

For this week’s Fire Ribbon Award, we are proud to recognize our Family Engagement Specialist, Ms. Marta Ferman.
Ms.Ferman was nominated by Ms. Bacon, who shared:
“Ms. Ferman is truly dedicated in her work with students and their families. She offers support and resources with genuine care, always going above and beyond to ensure everyone feels supported, valued, and understood".

Thank you, Ms. Ferman, for your hard work, positivity, and unwavering dedication to the Sligo Middle School community!

Student Spotlight

Our Project SUCCESS students (photos on the right) have been hard at work this marking period exploring and presenting projects centered on their personal identities. After researching aspects of who they are, students will share their learning through presentations tomorrow.

In 6th grade science, students kicked off their Weather unit with a hands-on investigation using laser surface thermometers and digital lux meter (photos on the left). They explored how different ground surfaces absorb energy from the sun and heat up at different rates—great scientific thinking in action at Sligo!

In ELD classes, students learned the word tableau and brought it to life by striking poses inspired by the Power Rangers. Representatives from Imagination Stage partnered with our students as part of an arts grant designed to build confidence and creative expression (photo on the left).

Ms. Bacon, Counselor, is this week's Fire Award Winner

Ms. Jessica Vasquez, Building Service Manager, is last week's Fire Award Winner

Week of November 3

Staff Spotlight Week #11 - Unleashing Potential - Ms. Theresa Bacon

For this week’s Fire Ribbon Award, we are proud to recognize our 7th Grade Counselor, Ms. Theresa Bacon!
Ms. Bacon was nominated by Ms. Vasquez, who shared:
“Ms. Bacon is an amazing counselor who makes herself available to students for so many different things. She is also so supportive of everything that happens at Sligo MS—from helping students and families to supporting teachers.”

Thank you, Ms. Bacon, for your hard work, positivity, and unwavering dedication to the Sligo Middle School community!

Student Spotlight

Our amazing Sligo students shined this week in so many ways!

Our theatre production, led by Ms. McConaghy, presented “Are You Scared Yet?” in the main gym. Our theatre students truly shined under the lights of Sligo’s stage—congratulations to all of our performers on a job well done!

On Friday, the Sligo community came together for our 7th Annual Fitness Fun Day, sponsored by the PTSA. Students and staff enjoyed a variety of activities, including dancing, running, tug-of-war, and basketball. There was even a special appearance by the Stallion!

Fun game of Tug of War during Fitness Fun Day!

The talented cast and crew of "Are you scared yet?"

6th Graders pose with the Stallion mascot

Week of October 27

Staff Spotlight Week #10 - Unleashing Potential - Ms. Jessica Vasquez

For this week’s Fire Ribbon Award, we are proud to recognize one of Sligo’s best — our Building Service Manager, Ms. Jessica Vasquez (not pictured).

Ms. Vasquez was nominated by Ms. Shane, who shared,

“Jessica is always willing to help — no matter how big the task is. She’ll call, bug, and talk to the right people until the problem is resolved. Jessica never says no; she’s always positive, always smiling. She runs a great department and makes Sligo look amazing both inside and out.”

Thank you, Ms. Vasquez, for your hard work, positivity, and dedication to keeping our school running smoothly and looking its best. We’re so lucky to have you as part of the Sligo team!

Student Spotlight

Yesterday, our Sligo students and staff got into the Halloween spirit by dressing up in festive costumes! Check out the photos on the left for some of our favorite staff highlights.

This week was also an exciting and busy one for our students, filled with opportunities to learn beyond the classroom.

8th graders attended a field trip to the AFI Theatre in Silver Spring for a showing of Stand and Deliver.
7th graders visited Finance Park at the Junior Achievement site at Thomas Edison High School, where they learned valuable lessons about financial literacy and real-world decision-making.

Field trips are an incredible way to extend learning and build memories outside of the classroom. We’re so proud of our Stallions for representing Sligo so well and making the most of these experiences!

Our math content specialist and cross country coach, Ms. Joan Shane (top and bottom)

Week of October 20

Staff Spotlight Week #9 - Unleashing Potential - Ms. Joan Shane

For this week’s Fire Ribbon Award, we are proud to recognize one of Sligo’s best — our math content specialist, Ms. Joan Shane!

Ms. Shane leads our math department with enthusiasm and dedication, bringing excitement, engagement, authenticity, and joy to teaching each and every day. Beyond the classroom, she also serves as the Sligo Cross Country coach, inspiring students to challenge themselves both academically and athletically.

We are so grateful to have Ms. Shane as part of our Sligo Middle School team — thank you for all that you do for the Sligo community!

Student Spotlight

Our Sligo students are shining bright!
Last week, our talented musicians performed beautifully at the Fall Concert, and next week our drama students will take the stage for the Fall play, “Are We Scared Yet?” — showing November 6 & 7 at 7:30 p.m.

Our extracurricular programs are also in full swing! Pictured on the right is our spirited Cheerleading team, led by Mr. Chambers, bringing energy and Stallion pride to every event.

The Sligo MIddle School cheerleading team

Week of October 13

Staff Spotlight Week #8 - Unleashing Potential - Ms. Irma Murray

For this week’s Fire Ribbon Award, we are proud to recognize one of our hard-working and dedicated building service workers, Ms. Irma Murray! Ms. Irma works tirelessly each day to support our staff and students in the cafeteria and throughout the school building.

We are so grateful to have Ms. Irma as part of our Sligo Middle School team—thank you for all that you do to keep our community running smoothly!

Student Spotlight

On Tuesday evening, our instrumental musicians shined during the Fall Concert. Congratulations to all of our talented student performers in both band and orchestra, and thank you to Ms. Parks for your leadership and dedication in guiding our young musicians to success.

Week of October 6

Staff Spotlight Week #7 - Unleashing Potential - Mrs. G

For this week’s Fire Ribbon Award, we are proud to recognize our paraeducator and lunch aide, Mrs. Maryjane Galiatsatos "Mrs. G"!

Last week's winner, Ms. Samaroo shared:
"Mrs. Galiatsatos's thoughtfulness serves as an inspiration for students to make good decisions. She's compassionate towards students, making them feel safe and welcome. Our kitchen staff also appreciates her continuous efforts to help feed the students!

We are so grateful to have Mrs G as part of our team—thank you for all that you do!

Student Spotlight

We had a big week of learning and fun at Sligo Middle School!

Our Nature Club and science classes explored the local waterstreams of Sligo Creek Park, engaging in hands-on environmental learning.

Throughout the week, students participated in a variety of lessons and supports on important topics, including strategies to combat bullying and ways to be an upstander, DCC student choice lessons, and information sessions about the MoCo and Blair CAP programs.

We are also excited to welcome families to Sligo Middle School on Monday, October 13th, for our Open House. We look forward to showcasing the amazing teaching and learning happening in our school community!

Week of September 29

Staff Spotlight Week #6 - Unleashing Potential - Ms. Samarroo

For this week’s Fire Ribbon Award, we are proud to recognize our cafeteria manager, Ms. Samaroo! She brings positivity and support to Sligo each and every day, not only by ensuring that our students are well fed, but also by providing care, nurturing, and encouragement that brighten the school community.

Last week's winner, Mr. Chambers shared:
"Ms. Samaroo goes above and beyond for our students. She greets them with kindness, makes sure everyone feels cared for, and has patience for our new students, many of which are new to the country. Her dedication creates a positive environment where students know they are valued and supported."

We are so grateful to have Ms. Samaroo as part of our team—thank you for all that you do!

Student Spotlight

We had a big week of learning and fun at Sligo Middle School! Earlier this week, we held SGA elections for our class officers. In 8th grade science, students conducted laboratory activities on thermal energy conversion (see photos on the right).

This week in Sligo Sports:

The boys’ Cross Country team earned their first victory of the season against SSIMS—winning by just one point in thrilling fashion!

The team (photographed on the right) showed tremendous effort, with outstanding performances from Genevieve Lichtenberger, Carys Osterman, Daniel Nadlehaft, Lucas McNally, Horace Shin, and Liam Mancic.

Week of September 22

Staff Spotlight Week #5 - Unleashing Potential - Mr. Isaiah Chambers

This week, we are proud to recognize our 8th grade counselor, Mr. Chambers, with the Fire Ribbon Award!

Last week’s winner, Ms. Harrington, nominated Mr. Chambers and shared the following:

"Mr. Chambers is a constant source of energy and positivity at Sligo! He is always there to support both students and staff, lifting spirits and brightening days with his enthusiasm. Mr. Chambers brings joy and excitement to our community by embracing special events and creating memorable moments that make Sligo such a fun place to be. Students absolutely love him and truly benefit from his dedication and support. We are so lucky to have him on our team—thank you for all you do, Mr. Chambers!"

Student Spotlight

We had a big week of learning and fun at Sligo Middle School! Our fall interscholastic sports teams, softball and cross country, competed against SSIMS. Students in Project Success enjoyed a field trip to Butler’s Orchard, and on Friday we celebrated Hispanic Heritage Day, where students engaged in a variety of lessons and activities throughout the day.

Week of September 15

Teaching Spotlight Week #4 - Unleashing Potential - Ms. Bethany Harrington

This week, we recognize Ms. Bethany Harrington, one of our Project Success teachers at Sligo Middle School. Ms. Harrington was nominated by a colleague who shared that she is a teacher that cultivates an active learning environment where students are encouraged to explore, question and construct their own understanding. Students are actively engaged and motivated to learn.

Thank you, Ms. Harrington, for all you do for the entire Sligo community!

Student Spotlight

This week, students participated in engaging activities across many of their classes and participated in extra-curricular activites such as Cross Country, Softball, SGA, Strategic Gaming and a variety of other extra-curricular activities.

In Science 6, students simulated Predator & Prey relationships showing population changes within our ecosystem. How fun!

Ms. Carrion is this week’s recipient of the MCPS Fire Ribbon

Week of September 8

Teaching Spotlight Week #3 - Unleashing Potential - Ms. Carrion

This week, we recognize Ms. Annette Carrion, one of our Emerging Multilingual Learner teachers at Sligo Middle School. Ms. Carrion was nominated by a colleague who shared that she creates a warm and welcoming classroom environment where students feel safe, seen, and respected.

Thank you, Ms. Carrion, for all you do for the entire Sligo community!

Student Spotlight

This week, students participated in engaging activities across many of their classes and had opportunities to get involved in after-school programs. Our interscholastic sports season kicked off, and several RecXtra and other extracurricular activities also began.

We hope every student in Stallion Nation finds a club or activity where they can build connections, make new friends, and enjoy a safe and supportive space to socialize.

Students in Ms. Cassagnol's class took part in a science lab on measuring matter.

Congratulations, Ms. Natale!

Week of September 2

Teaching Spotlight Week #2 - Unleashing Potential - Ms. Sarah Natale

This week, we recognize Ms. Sarah Natale, our media specialist at Sligo. Ms for the winner of the "Fire Ribbon". Ms. Natale creates a welcoming environment each day in the media center. This week, she led student orientations and opened the media center during lunch periods to provide book browsing and support.

Thank you, Ms. Natale, for all you do for the entire Sligo community!

Student Spotlight

This week, students have learned about safety in the classroom, in science, and through emergency procedures. They have also begun engaging in course content and building friendships with their classmates. At lunch, students enjoyed the nice weather during recess, which has helped build a positive and welcoming start to the school year

Our first award member, Ms. Ari Shuchatowitz. Congratulations, Ari! Thank you for all that you do for Stallion Nation!

Week of August 25th

Teaching Spotlight Week #1 - Unleashing Potential - Ari Shuchatowitz

At the Administrative & Supervisory visit before the start of school, Superintendent Dr. Taylor charged each school with highlighting and recognizing staff members who are "Unleashing Potential" within our community. Each week, we will celebrate a staff member by awarding "Fire Ribbons," recognizing those who go above and beyond—or simply show up and make a difference.

The first recipient of the school year is Ms. Ari Shuchatowitz for all of her work leading the 6th grade team, co-planning Transition Day, and supporting and onboarding new staff and students.

Student Spotlight

Mother Nature certainly helped, but seeing our new students engaging with one another and having fun during Transition Day is what it’s all about. Thank you to everyone who contributed to making it a success. It was a wonderful way to set the tone for the school year.

Ms. Taylor Rubin leading one of the rotations at Transition Day.

The student section at Promotion as seen from the stage

Week of June 9th

Student Spotlight #1

This week, we wanted to highlight our students twice- first, congratulations to our 8th grade students on their promotion to high school! We are proud of their accomplishments and we as a staff have enjoyed them the last three years and will miss them dearly. They showed their true selves on promotion night, ensuring every single students got loud cheers from the crowd, even for people they may not have known! Very special and very classy evening! Good luck in high school!

Student Spotlight #2

This week, we wanted to highlight our students twice- so secondly, it's been fun winding down the final days of the year with our 6th and 7th graders! They each had End of the Year fun field trips on Monday 6/9 to Urban Air and Climbzone (respectively). Students got to be physically active and complete challenging rock walls or obstacle courses and more with their friends and teachers to celebrate a great school year!

6th grade End of the Year Field Trip to Urban Air

Pictured are teachers and students posing for a quick pic at Kings Dominion!

Week of June 2nd

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we wanted to highlight the above and beyond work of our outstanding 8th grade team for chaperoning back-to-back field trips to celebrate our 8th grade students! At Kings Dominion, teachers were going on rides, encouraging students, supervising everywhere, and sharing great laughs! At the first annual 8th Grade End of Year Picnic, staff were playing pickup sports games, serving lunch, painting and playing games with students, and more! We are beyond thankful and celebratory of our 8th grade team of teachers!

Student Spotlight

This week, we shine some extra light on our 8th grade students who are working on finishing their academics in middle strongly while taking a few days to take some trips to celebrate and cement all their accomplishments in good memories! Kings Dominion and the End of Year Picnic brought out our students' sense of adventure, risk taking, collaborative spirit, and general jovial nature! A good time was had by all!

One of the big group photos featuring some of our awesome 8th graders!

The "Spain" team posing for a photo after their 3-2 win in the finals!

Week of May 26th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we wanted to highlight all of the work our team of teachers has done throughout the school year to create and lead after school activities. These keep our students engaged with their school community and offer opportunities for fun, academic support, exercise, and more! Thank you to our athletics coaches, club sponsors, tutors, and everyone else who lends a hand in all things related to after school activities. One fun event at the end of the year is the annual Soccer Tournament, a 5-5 "World Cup Style" tournament of student created teams. "Spain" won this year!

Student Spotlight

This week, we celebrate our 7th grade students who attended the Finance Park field trips this week! MCPS in partnership with Junior Achievement implements a financial literacy curriculum in 7th grade world studies classes with a culminating field trip, where students take on the profile of an adult and learn the ins and outs of budgeting, expenses, and what it truly means to (financially) be an adult! Our students did a great job and were engulfed in the activities and fun! Students also got a tour of some of the programs offered at the Thomas Edison High School of Technology, home of Finance Park.

Students during a tour of the masonry, carpentry, plumbing, and HVAC programs at Edison HS.

Students working on a project at the Kid's Museum using multiple mediums

Week of May 19th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we had our final field trip to the Kids Museum with Ms. Vaughn's 7th grade engineering and design classes. Students got opportunities over three half day field trips to complete hands-on projects and work that aligned with things they learned in class. Thank you Ms. Vaughn for organizing and leading these three fun trips and for making project-based learning real in our elective classes!

Student Spotlight

This week, we celebrate the conclusion of all formal testing in the Spring from MCAP and MAP-R/M!! We are proud of our students' resilience and resolve to complete testing with their best effort possible each and every day. We love to find ways to celebrate students, and one such way is displaying their work! Teachers have in their classrooms, hallways are decorated, and even art pop-up displays! Go students!

Student work on display in the hallways!

Students working together in Science 7 on an Engineering team building challenge!

Week of May 12th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we saw teachers finding innovative methods to keep students learning and engaged despite the rising temperatures and proximity to summer. Teachers have found ways to have students working with their peers on content skills but in ways that aren't lessons solely focused on direct instruction. For example, Ms. Sayed's Science 7 class had a team builder focused on an engineering challenge building towers with spaghetti.

Student Spotlight

This week, we highlight our school soccer teams who wrapped up their respective seasons this week. Win or loss, the teams worked well together and showed off their skills. Our student-athletes showed their passion and sportsmanship in each of their games. Come see some in action in our annual soccer tournament next week!

A live shot of our soccer team in action!

Directing, producing, lights, music, so much at play (pun intended!)

Week of May 5th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we celebrate National Teachers Appreciation Week! We wholeheartedly thank our staff in whatever role they occupy for the impact on students. A school cannot be the focal point of a strong community without a strong staff- and we have that here at Sligo MS! While our entire staff won't fit in one photo here, we recognize Mr. Kelsey, Mrs. McConaghy, and Ms. Parks (seen here hard at work directing/producing) for their work to make our student musical come to life!

Student Spotlight

This week, we shine the spotlight (literally) on our student actors and crew for putting on Once Upon A Mattress, a rendition of the Princess and the Pea, this past week for our annual Spring musical. Student performances were outstanding and they showed off their talents in song, dance, acting, directing, and tech all to make for a fabulous show! Bravo!

A scene from Once Upon a Mattress!

Ms. Coombs and our amazing Stallion student artwork on display!

Week of April 28th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we thank all of our teachers for administering MCAP state testing. It is a true endeavor and is immensely important and all rose to the occasion. Since there were only two true days of instruction this week, we go back to the previous week to highlight Ms. Coombs, Sligo's art teacher, who spent hours highlighting and displaying student work in the hallways, at the MCPS middle school art show at Wheaton Mall, and even on a snowplow for the MDOT "Paint the Plow" competition.

Student Spotlight

This week, we want to thank ALL of our students for being testing ready this week for MCAP Math and ELA. All students took part in testing this week and had the opportunity to show off their learning from this school year. MCAP is big challenge and our students met the challenge head on! Many showed their academic prowess and dedication to doing well in school. Since testing is so strenuous, we made sure to build in wellness activities for kids to get outside and play once they were over for the day.

A scene from our post-testing wellness activities outside!

Students enjoying an outdoor fresh air break during lunch this week.

Week of April 21st

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we saw numerous staff members using our outdoor spaces as we approach the warmer months of the year! And, with testing season beginning next week, it's a great time to find ways to be creative and have some fun. While not directly instructional, we want to spotlight our cafeteria supports- counseling, security, our lunch hour aide, and administrators for making outdoor breaks, aka recess, a frequent occur during lunch on nice days until the end of the year! You have asked, and we've delivered!

Student Spotlight

This week, we want to celebrate our Project SUCCESS class in 6th grade for holding the 1st Annual Sligo MS Project SUCCESS Symposium, a showcase of student-created projects covering everything students have worked on this year- we saw soccer skills demonstrations, seed planters, ecosystem dioramas, and all involving practicing public speaking and literacy skills. Big kudos to our students and special shoutout to our MCPS partners and parents/community members for attending!

The student speaker opening the Project SUCCESS Symposium!

Project SUCCESS students working on document analysis and social studies thinking skills

Week of April 7th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we saw students working all over the building to start the 4th quarter off right! In our Project SUCCESS class, we saw Ms. Harrington creating differentiated and engaging ways for students to interact with content before beginning the writing process. Students were seen working individually or in small groups to review sources and analyze them to extract essential information for their writing prompts. Great job teacher and students!

Student Spotlight

This week, we want to celebrate our students and their growth as young humans! At Sligo, we strive to reach our students as learners and as people. Emotional wellbeing is essential to students being ready to learn. Through our Career Coach Mr. Brown from WorkSource Montgomery, he and Sligo staff held a "Mental Health Expo" where students in invited classes participated in rotations of learning and activities that promoted their mental health and wellbeing!

A snapshot from the Mental Health Expo!

A scene from Model United Nations in 6th Grade Global Humanities

Week of March 31st

Teaching Spotlight

This week, students in Global Humanities 6 took part in a Model United Nations conference tasked with discussion gender equality in accessing education across the world! Our students prepared for multiple class periods writing position papers, researching their countries, and practicing their public speaking skills. They were many outstanding delegates! Thanks to our "Secretaries General" Mr. Free and Ms. Harrington for creating an amazing experience!

Student Spotlight

This week, we once again want to spotlight our students' extracurricular achievements. This week was the MCPS Middle School Annual Book Wars competition at Takoma Park MS. The Sligo MS team of 16 students and our Media Center team went in matching shirts and were ready to compete. The room was full and students were fully engulfed in the process of reading, fun, and working with their team! Go Stallion Readers (also read: Leaders)!

The Sligo MS Book Wars team!

Ms. Cassagnol's Nature Club looking for wildlife!

Week of March 24th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we say thank you to the many teachers who bring their expertise and passions into afterschool activities. Going beyond their work day, they create opportunities for students to stay engaged and connected with school, fun, and friends. Sligo also partners with Montgomery County's RecXtra program in funding clubs like Ms. Cassagnol's Nature Club, who all got new binoculars for their nature walks along Sligo Creek.

Student Spotlight

This week, we want to spotlight our young leaders in the National Junior Honors Society here at Sligo. One of their many service experiences is tutoring students at Glen Haven ES, one of Sligo's feeder elementary schools. NJHS students as part of their program conduct many hours of leadership projects to demonstrate the core values of NJHS. Thank you to our members for their service to others in the community!

Sligo NJHS Students tutoring elementary school students at Glen Haven ES!

Students in Algebra class loving learning math!

Week of March 17th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we saw some amazing instruction across our school. Sligo staff continuously create innovative ways to teach concepts and assess student learning. One example was the "Egg Hunt" in Ms. Lubitz's Algebra class, where students went to the Media Center to practice their skills in a fun simulation activity! Students got to work in groups and fun (while learning) was had all around!

Student Spotlight

This week, we want to spotlight our soon to be college and career ready 8th graders! This week, we took a field trip to the "MC Experience" at Montgomery College, where students participated in academic rotations and information sessions and got a taste of what being a college student is like. Rotations included chemistry lab, statistics, film analysis, and more. We had a blast and we hope to see our students in higher learning or career fields in the near future!

8th graders in a college film class analyzing the use of light, color, and camera angles!

Students making their Pi Day crowns in math!

Week of March 10th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we saw some extra fun in math classes on Friday, March 14th, for Pi Day! Pi Day crowns after some math problems led to some big smiles and community building in Mr. Gordon's accelerated math 7+ class. When we walked in, the energy was so warm and full of fun to celebrate the math department's biggest holiday! 3.14159....

Student Spotlight

This week, we want to spotlight our students' academic successes outside the classroom! This past weekend, Sligo MS hosted the Montgomery County National History Day competition. The Sligo student participants did an excellent job, and we even had one pair of students finish 2nd in their category and earn a place in the Maryland State competition later this Spring. Congratulations to our young Stallion historians!

Two 7th grade students who are moving on to the Maryland State level NHD competition!

Ms. Natale leading instruction on sourcing in Mr. Free's Global Humanities class.

Week of March 3rd

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we want to spotlight a positive trait in both teaching and learning: collaboration! Just as major musical artists collaborate on amazing songs, our teachers collaborate on amazing lessons. Such as one this week in Global Humanities 6, where Mr. Free and Ms. Natale, our Media Specialist, collaborated on a lesson about sourcing while students were researching different countries. Student interest was high and the furious search for sourcing information was fun to see!

Student Spotlight

This week, we want to spotlight a positive trait in both teaching and learning: collaboration. All of our 7th and 8th graders were hard at work finishing their Science Fair boards to display their Well Designed Investigations. Many are collaborative efforts where students work in groups to conduct and display their findings. Pictured are some students from XX's class making finishing touches on the due date. For all community members, our STEM Night is on March 20th from 6-7:30pm, come see our students' work!

Students finalizing their Science Fair boards!

A Career Day presenter teaching students about being a business owner and entrepreneur.

Week of February 24th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, Sligo held our annual Career Day! Career Day brings professionals in a wide variety of fields to speak to all of our students about the various opportunities that exist in their professional futures. Career Day continues to inspire and inform our young people into knowing how their skills and interests can translate into a career. Thank you to our Sligo community of friends, families, and beyond who dedicated your time to teach our students about yourselves and your careers. Special shoutout to our TWO ALUMNI who were presenters!

Student Spotlight

This week, we celebrated Black History Month with a "spirit week" here at Sligo. Our days included wearing Pan -Africanism colors (Green, Black, and Red), "All Black Everything," representing HBCUs, as well as dressing as your favorite school appropriate historical icon. A student and staff favorite though is "Rep Your Culture" Day where the many personal backgrounds that make up our student and staff body are on full display. Thank you students for sharing your spirit with us this week.

Some 8th grade students and staff representing thier cultures on "Rep Your Culture" Day!

Ms. Trone leading her 8th Grade English class in a whiteboard writing activity

Week of February 17th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, as our team visits classes, we see several examples of strong teacher planning and student learning. One such example was in Ms. Trone's English class, where students were working collaboratively on comma rules/sentence structure using examples from the text they have been reading in class, 12 Angry Men. It was great to see the connection of skill-building and new learning all at once while also giving students what they always enjoy, working with their peers!

Student Spotlight

This week, we celebrated the outstanding academic achievement of our Honor Roll students from Quarter 2 with recognition and a treat during our Honor Roll Parties. Honor Roll students have a GPA of 3.0 or higher which is evidence of their consistent effort and hardwork throughout the entire quarter. In addition, we celebrated our "On a Roll" students as well, those who's GPAs increased significantly from Quarter 1 to 2, showing their growth! Thank you to our grade level team leaders for planning student recognition!

The proud team leaders give words of encouragement at the 6th Grade Honor Roll Party

6th Graders perusing the choices at the Book Fair!

Week of February 10th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, our amazing Media Center (run by Ms. Natale and Ms. Henley) put on the yearly Scholastic Book Fair! A celebration of all things books, information, and cool stuff (we see you, posters and silly erasers), students love browsing and shopping for their next reading or writing tool. Additional shoutout to our English/Reading and ELD Departments for participating in classroom visits to ensure the Book Fair is available to all students!

Student Spotlight

This week, we saw more instances of school spirit with a fan favorite holiday- Valentine's Day! Students and staff took place in wearing pink/red, sharing love, some sugary snacks, and celebrating friendship! At Sligo MS, we firmly believe that we must know our students as people, not just as learners, and it is always great to see students involve themselves in some fun here at school! One way we shared some fun was through our SGA's annual Valentine's Day gram sales- thank you to our student leaders for organizing!

Students in our SGA delivering Valentine's Day Grams to those who bought one this week!

A look into the Cow Eye Dissection in 7th Grade Science classes this week.

Week of February 3rd

Teaching Spotlight

This week, a student favorite has returned- the annual cow eye dissection lab experiment in 7th grade science class! Our fabulous teachers Ms. Sayed, Mr. Hansen, and Ms. Hay prepared students to partake in an equally informative and fun lab assignment. Our students were thrilled, a little scared, or both- but all did a great job in trying something new! Hands-on learning is always a great way to deepen understanding of concepts learned in class.

Student Spotlight

This week, we had a chance to leave the building with our 8th Grade students, who attended a private screening of the film, The Outsiders, at AFI in Downtown Silver Spring. All students read the book version in class during 2nd quarter and were able to watch the film to culminate their hard work. Teachers even reported students gasping at specific parts showing their knowledge of the storyline and key events! Awesome!

Students hanging out before the movie begins on the 8th Grade Field Trip.

Student-led lesson (literally) in Ms. Monroe's Spanish 1A class

Week of January 27th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, as we visited classes, we saw a few examples of truly student-focused lessons. This is when students are accountable for their own work and learning and the teacher facilitates, rather than dictates, the class. In Ms. Monroe's Spanish class, students were up at the board teaching their peers and providing relevant examples. Students teaching other students is an engaging sight to see!

Student Spotlight

This week, we were host the Sligo MS National History Day Competition for students in Global Humanities 7. These 7th grade students worked for months on a research project on the theme "Rights and Responsibilities in History." There were exhibit boards, websites, and documentaries that students created on a topic of their choice related to the theme. We love seeing not just their hard work, but also the high level of professionalism in presenting their work to a panel of judges!

A scene from the amazing exhibits from National History Day

A full house for instructional rotations during Incoming Parent Night

Week of January 20th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, Sligo's Instructional Leadership Team members (especially our content specialists and 6th grade team leaders) put together informative and engaging presentations for our Incoming Parent Night. They stayed late to show our newest Stallions and their families all of the instructional programming Sligo has to offer. Our teacher leaders teach their departments/teams, their own students, and now parents!

Student Spotlight

This week, we were excited to meet some of our rising 6th grade Stallions at Incoming Parent Night! It was amazing to see so many excited young people (and their parents/caregivers) who brought great energy, questions, and spirit to this yearly event. Special shoutout and thanks to our current Stallion Student Ambassadors, some pictured here, who often work the same hours as school adults helping to run these schoolwide events!

Some of our Stallion Student Ambassadors welcoming new families

Students in Spanish 2 with Ms. Maffeo following directions from their peers

Week of January 13th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, while walking around the hallway, we stumbled across groups of students with pink direction cards trying to find their way, laughing and having a blast. When we asked, they said there were learning about giving directions and related vocabulary in Spanish 2 and were following directions written by their peers. Some got lost, some directions were unclear, but fun was had (while learning!) by all. Shoutout to our World Languages teachers, and in this case Ms. Maffeo, for a fun application of new learning!

Student Spotlight

This week, we saw the snow-delayed return of the basketball season! Both of Sligo's teams are ready to take the court and show their skills and spirit. Speaking of spirit, we also welcome back our Cheerleading Club, led by Mr. Chambers and Ms. Simmons, who truly put on a fantastic show that gets the crowd engaged and shows support for our student-athletes (including themselves!). These students practice a lot and show great dedication in their cheers, performances, and overall work as a team. Go Stallions!

Sligo's Cheerleading Club cheering on Girls Basketball's first game last weeks

Mr. Chambers and Ms. Benner presenting to 6th grade students

Week of January 6th Happy 2025!

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we want to thank all of our staff for their efforts to provide meaningful learning experiences every day, even if there was a snow elongated weekend! 2025 is off to a great start, and January is a very busy month! This week, all students participated in a counseling lesson on Personal Body Safety, led in collaboration between our counseling department and PE/Health teachers. We highly encourage responsible and safe behaviors at school and strive to have the best learning environment for all.

Student Spotlight

This week, we shoutout all of our students for their participation and engagement in our first "Fun Friday" of the year! Our teachers hosted various activities that students could choose from for the last hour of the day on Friday. These ranged from games, to crochet, from karaoke to sports, there was something for everyone! We love seeing our students in non-traditional settings doing things they enjoy! We needed a little fun before lots of upcoming testing (MAP-R, MAP-M, and ACCESS for EMLs) all in January!

Ms. Irons and students in the board game room for Fun Friday!

Staff and students playing a game of "Knock them Up and Knock them Down!"

Week of December 16th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we want to spotlight the time and energy many of our staff put in to make the last day before Winter Break full of fun and positive spirit! The energy was electric in the gym for our annual Battle of the Classes hosted by our PE/Health Department. Many staff members took part in games and challenges and showed their commitment to our school community! We wish everyone a happy and healthy finish to 2024!

Student Spotlight

This week, we shoutout our amazing 6th graders for an excellent field trip full of fun, learning, snacks, and great behavior! 6th graders went to the International Spy Museum in Downtown DC and got to explore and learn about espionage and how it connects to science, math, and literacy. Thank you as well to our 6th grade team leaders for planning the trip and for our parent/caregiver volunteers!

6th graders on the International Spy Museum Field Trip this past week.

Students working together on making cookies! There is A LOT of math in cooking!

Week of December 9th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we want to spotlight the collaborative work between Mrs. Shane's math class and our discreet programs in Special Education. Students from both classes worked in small groups to roll out, cut, and decorate holiday shaped cookies! With some help from our fabulous cafeteria staff, they were magically baked to a perfect golden brown! We thank those teachers and support staff present for creating and facilitating a fun activity!

Student Spotlight

This week, we want to spotlight all those who participaetd and performed in this year's Winter Concert this past Tuesday. Special congratulations to our 6th graders in Advanced Band and Orchestra, who performed in their first concert in middle school and put on a great show for the community. The auditorium at Kennedy HS was packed for this fantastic concert. All of our Band, Orchestra, and Chorus students- we are proud of your accomplishment and hard work in preparing!

Part of our Advanced Orchestra (6th grade) performing in their first middle school concert!

Teachers pausing for a dinner break and conversation during Parent-Teacher Conferences

Week of November 25th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we thank our entire teaching staff for staying late on Monday to hold Parent-Teacher Conferences! Our staff appreciates your support from home as parents/caregivers immensely and it's always a pleasure to discuss your child's progress and next steps for success. Thank you as well to the PTSA and some staff volunteers for a delicious meal to fuel the conversations.

Student Spotlight

This week, we spotlight our students who had a blast playing in our Staff vs. Student Volleyball game- an annual tradition the day before the Thanksgiving Holiday break. Sligo staff brought out their old athletic skills and the students had a great time, even though they lost :)

Students playing in the Staff vs. Student Volleyball game

7th graders at the National Aquarium in Baltimore touching horseshoe crabs!

Week of November 18th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we took learning on the road! Our 7th grade team took students to the National Aquarium in Baltimore this past Thursday. We let nature being the teacher, and students saw and learned new things and made connections to the science curriculum. Our students really enjoyed this experiential learning opportunity. Special thanks to our 7th grade team leaders, Ms. Lubitz and Mr. Hoben, for organizing, as well as our group of fantastic parent volunteers!

Student Spotlight

This week, we spotlight (literally) the arts at Sligo once again, this time on the stage! Our Fall Play called the Actor Games took place last Thursday and Friday. Our student actors took the stage and provided the crowd with several laughs and impressed us all with their on stage professionalism and performance! Congratulations to our amazing student cast and crew as well as Ms. McConaghy, our theater teacher and director on your first show

The cast of the Actor Games, our Fall Play!

A snapshot from the Identity Expo this week in our Project Success class.

Week of November 11th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we spotlight Ms. Harrington and her Project Success class who demonstrated several skills, including research and public speaking, at the Identity Expo. Students selected three aspects of thier identities (such as language, ethnicity, religion, etc.) and researched one essential question related to each one. Then, students made displays and presented their projects to visiting families and staff!

Student Spotlight

This week, we recognized Mental Health Awareness Week at Sligo MS with a daily theme, spirit day, and lunchtime activity such as "Walk it out Wednesday" and "Treat Yourself Thursday." Students were able to engage in activities that promote various aspects of their wellbeing and recognize/learn more about mental health and the resources available to them at Sligo. Thank you students for putting yourselves and your wellbeing as a priority!

8th grade students during the lunchtime walk on "Walk it out Wednesday"

Physical Education Teachers + Mr. Imamura pause the fun for the camera!

Week of November 4th FITNESS FUN DAY!

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we spotlight our fabulous Physical Education teachers and our amazing PTSA for putting together the 10th Annual Fitness Fun Day! Students were engrossed in physical activity, gardening, dancing, amongst other things during their PE/Health classes today all to the sound of a live DJ! Thank you to all our parent/guardian and community volunteers, donors, and supporters for this fun event for students and fundraiser for our students.

Student Spotlight

This week, we spotlight many students and staff who participated in Fitness Fun Day! All grade levels had a blast participating in various activities and we saw everyone doing something with motion! The stars came out on the dance floor, running laps (I think 20 was the highest!), shooting baskets, scoring goals, and safely winning at tug-of-war. So many students wore or made their own fashion statements with their Fitness Fun Day shirts, of course, designed by a current Sligo student. Go Stallions!

Students participating in the gardening activity during Fitness Fun Day! Beautifying our school and spending time outside!

Mr. Kelsey teaching others differentiation he implemented in his General Music I class.

Week of October 28th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we spotlight six teachers who taught other teachers in their departments during professional development this week. The focus was on planning effective lessons and differentiation for Emergent Multilingual Learners (EMLs) in all classes. Teachers learned from their peers about strategies they use for success and to ensure ALL students are equitably learning and growing with the appropriate support!

Student Spotlight

This week, we spotlight many students and staff who participated in Halloween! We encouraged the fun and spirit for those who celebrate the holiday and wanted to highlight the Media Center (thank you Ms. Natale and Ms. Henley) for ensuring fun programming for all students on Halloween in their annual sharing of student-created spooky stories alongside a costume contest. It was a full house!

6th graders in the Media Center on Halloween listening to spooky stories told by their peers.

Students awaiting to see if their eggs survived the Egg Drop!

Week of October 21st

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we highlight the project-based learning that occurs in many of our classrooms. One great example is in our engineering and design 7th grade elective course, where students worked hard on their Egg Drop contraptions. Friday was "drop day" and students got to see if their design held up to being dropped from the third floor. Thank you to our technology teacher, Ms. Vaughn, for the innovative activities and Mr. Sweeney for assisting with safely launching the eggs.

Student Spotlight

This week, we spotlight many students and staff who participated in our PINK OUT this Friday in honor and celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We found some of our most pink-decked-out staff and students this morning for a quick photo! We love when students show their school spirit and it (literally) brightened up our school and community today!

Students and staff all dressed in pink!

Mr. On, a student teacher from Towson University, celebrating his last day in PE!

Week of October 14th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we wanted to highlight the contributions of a student teacher from Towson University, Mr. On, who had Mr. Mohamud in our PE/Health Department as his mentor teacher. Mr. On, and our entire PE/Health Department, focused on building positive relationships and ensuring the maximum amount of instructional time for students to participate actively! Mr. On left a grand impact in his short tenure with us, and we wish him well on his next internship experience in an MCPS elementary school!

Student Spotlight

This week, we spotlight our young musicians and future virtuosos! Last Tuesday was our Fall Concert, where the 7th and 8th grade Orchestra and Band performed a few selections and kicked off the first of many performances they will star in this year! Thank you to Ms. Parks, our Instrumental Music teacher, and please come out to support the arts at Sligo! Concerts, plays, musicals, talent shows, and more are coming throughout the year.

7th/8th Grade Orchestra before performing at the Fall Concert last

Mrs. Shane working with a group of students

Week of October 7th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we spotlight the immense efforts of our staff to tailor instruction to best meet student needs and ensure a pattern of continued growth! We see that commitment in many of our classrooms, where personalized instruction and support go a long way to ensuring students are prepared for both classroom and district assessments. One such example was seen this week in Mrs. Shane's 6th/7th grade math class working on scale drawings while she worked with table groups individually whilst simultaneously students had tasks to complete.

Student Spotlight

This week, we spotlight our fall student-athletes participating in either cross country or softball. While the first two weeks were rained out, our teams shined in the sun this week and had great showing in their respectives games/meets! Sports are just one of many after school activities offered at Sligo every Tuesday-Thursday, check out the school website for more information on how to be involved!

Boys Cross Country posing for a team photo after their meet this week!

Mr. Chambers presenting an anti-bullying lesson to 7th grade students.

Week of September 30th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, our grade level counselors visited all classrooms and conducted informational lessons. 6th and 7th grade students participated in an Anti-Bullying lesson and connected well to our emphasis this year on improving and education our students on peer-to-peer communication. 8th Grade students heard an introductory lesson into the DCC High School Choice process! (Choice forms are due November 1st!) Thank you to our Counseling Department (Ms. Bacon, Mr. Chambers, and Mr. Cherif)!

Student Spotlight

This week, we spotlight a group of 15 students who attended the Latina Legacy Conference and represented Sligo Middle School. This was an event catered to middle school students who identify as Latina and aimed to "empower, inspire, and unite MCPS Latina students and leaders to reach their highest potential through workshops, panels, performances, and more." Special shoutout to Ms. Molina, one of our Spanish teachers, who had a role in planning the conference and led our students on the trip!

A group photo for those who attended the Latina Legacy Conference from Sligo MS! Selfie!

Some Sligo Staff members who participated in Friday's spirit day!

Week of September 23rd

Teaching Spotlight

This week, our grade level team leaders generated lessons to educate, celebrate, and discover more about Hispanic Heritage Month. Students engaged in several activities this Friday during all classes in our recognition of Hispanic Heritage Day here at Sligo MS. Our teachers led students through a variety of engaging activities. Some even participated in the spirit day attite!

Student Spotlight

This week, we spotlight our students from all the various countries and cultures that make up our Hispanic community here at Sligo. This week, we recognized Hispanic Heritage Month in many ways. We had students on Friday represent their favorite Hispanic icons or countries with a spirit day. All students learned more about different cultures, people, and places. One student highlight was playing Loteria via the Google Doodle!

Students engaged in Loteria via the Google Doodle in Mr. Hansen's science class.

Mr. Free leading students through the Confident Course at Outdoor Education this past week.

Week of September 16th Outdoor Education!

Teaching Spotlight

This week, our 6th grade students and many of our teachers embarked on the annual Outdoor Education trip. During the day, students attended educational rotations led by our staff. Many of our teachers go above and beyond their duty days to support OE programming in the afternoons, evenings, and even overnight! Huge shoutout to Ms. S and Ms. Fenton for planning and leading the effort as our 6th grade team leaders and to all our teachers who were present!

Student Spotlight

This week, 6th grade students attended Outdoor Education and had a BLAST! There was lots of fun, learning, and time building new friendships. We congratulate our 6th graders for trying new things, collaborating with their peers, and for taking a responsible risk by attending an overnight field trip with us. Outdoor Education is a part of the MCPS Science curriculum for 6th grade and Sligo is so happy with our students' engagement while on this trip.

6th grade students (and Ms. Harrington!) at Outdoor Education showing off their results from the Predator/Prey Simulation

Mr. Mohamud and one of his classes review invasion game tactics at the end of class.

Week of September 9th

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we had FANTASTIC weather, and that means outdoor physical education (PE) classes. Our physical education teachers plan for engaging activities each day that teach tactics, skills, and social responsibility as a teammate. This week, they were even featured by an MCPS supervisor of their content on their social media. We want all students to participate each and every day and prioritize this! (That means no crocs for PE class!).

Student Spotlight

This week, students dove right in to work hard and try their best, as many classes had their first or second assessments grades of the year this week. Across all grades, we see students prioritizing their academics while at school (and keeping those cell phones away all day!). Yet, we value our students as people, not just as learners, so we try to have some fun! On Fridays, we offer games and activities in the cafeteria, and even some fun ideas- like matching outfit days, courtesy of many 7th graders!

7th grade students participating in some fun- it was "jorts day" as proclaimed by our 7th grade counselor, Mr. Chambers.

Ms. Parks, our Instrumental Music Teacher, leads Concert Band students on practicing a song for the upcoming Fall Concert.

Week of September 2nd

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we (Sligo Administrative Team) has visited ALL of our teachers classrooms at least once. We are so happy to see amazing teaching and learning happening already. Sligo Style is in full force! This week, we spotlight Ms. Parks, our Instrumental Music teacher, who for many years has led our music arts program with enthusiasm and a love for her craft. Thank you, Ms. Parks! Please come out and support our concerts throughout the school year.

Student Spotlight

This week, we saw students shining brightly in many of our instructional spaces. From lacing up shoes for the pacer test and mile run, to getting to know new classmates, and turning in those first graded assignments! We have also seen students prioritizing and demonstrating positive peer-to-peer relationships in classes. Seen to the right are 6th grade students participating in a collaborative activity with new classmates like they have been friends for years! (Special shoutout to our amazing Art teacher, Ms. Coombs!)

6th Grade students in Studio Art getting to know each other and their teacher.

Mr. Smith, one of our fabulous new teachers, getting to know his students!

Week of August 26th Happy First Week of School!

Teaching Spotlight

This week, we got the 2024-2025 school year off to a fantastic start. Our teachers are committed to "Sligo Style" and getting to know our students as learners AND as people. We value building positive relationships in the classroom where students feel seen, heard, and safe. Our new Stallion Staff jumped right in with this mission, such as Mr. Smith, one of our new World Studies teachers. Our Stallion Staff is ready to meet the needs of their students and support academic and personal growth!

Student Spotlight

This week, we saw students come back into the building with an abundance of positivity! The joy of seeing friends, sharing summer stories, meeting new people, and much much more was evident all across our building. Our newest 6th Grade Stallions got familiar with middle school, and our returning Stallions put their best foot forward. It's going to be awesome! Even the cafeteria was full of interaction- with technology AWAY ALL DAY :)

8th Grade students enjoying lunch with friendly (and impressively competitive) games of chess at lunch!

Teachers passing through the PTSA-organized supplies table! Thank you for all of the donations!

Week of August 19th Teacher Pre-Service Week!

Teaching Spotlight

This week, our entire staff: teachers, paraeducators, building service, counseling, main office, media center, and all are working diligently to ensure our building is ready for all students on Monday! Teachers have been planning lessons, meeting with grade level teams, connecting with new colleagues, and getting their classrooms ready to welcome students! They have also been celebrated by our fantastic PTSA (please join as a member!), as seen to the left at the supplies table!

Student Spotlight

This week, we welcomed students back into the building (some for the first time) at New Student Orientation. We were excited to see their wide eyed gaze at their new school and environment. All week long, our teachers have also been great students and lifelonger learners, recieving updated trainings and information on schoolwide and districtwide initiatives (seen to the right)

Teachers as learners in a session led by our grade level team leaders!

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