All students took the middle of the year MAP test, and worked hard to improve their scores.
Middle school students will have midterm exams the week of January 12th. Students received review/study guides from each teacher giving them a midterm back in December, prior to the Chrismas break. Below is the schedule for all exams being given.
Middle School Midterm Exam Schedule
ELA
6th grade - Thursday, 1/15
7th grade - Wednesday, 1/14
8th grade - Thursday, 1/15
Math
6th grade - Tuesday, 1/13
7th grade - Monday, 1/12
8th grade - Tuesday, 1/13
Social Studies
6th grade - Wednesday, 1/14
7th grade - Thursday, 1/15
8th grade - Wednesday, 1/14
Science
6th grade - N/A
7th grade - Tuesday, 1/13
8th grade - Monday, 1/12
At the start of the second trimester, all middle school teachers implemented a standardized late work policy designed to promote responsibility and time management skills that are essential for academic success.
Students who fail to submit homework or practice assignments will receive a zero with no opportunity for makeup credit. This policy encourages consistent daily engagement with course material.
Late submissions will be accepted within one calendar week of the original due date for a maximum of 50% credit. Students receive an "Unprepared for Class" slip documenting the final submission deadline. Work submitted after this date will receive a grade of zero. Students must notify teachers via email when submitting late work—Google Classroom messages do not fulfill this requirement.
Missed quizzes and tests due to absence must be completed upon return or within one week for extended absences. It is the student’s responsibility to schedule makeup assessments.
Midterm is on Thursday, January 15th. We will be reviewing throughout the week.
Midterm is on Wednesday, January 14th. We will be reviewing throughout the week.
Eighth Grade:
Midterm is on Thursday, January 15th. We will be reviewing throughout the week.
Beginning Monday, middle school will have midterms. Study/review guides have been posted in Google Classroom since December 12th, and teachers have been reviewing in class as much as possible. The schedule for exams is at the top of this webpage.
We are officially kicking off the Kids Heart Challenge (KHC) this week!
There is no cost to register.
All students are encouraged to register and will earn a free wristband by doing so. Sign up today and earn a wristband.
As students complete online missions and earn donations, they are eligible for additional prizes including 2 Super Bowl tickets. Prizes will be distributed by Mr. Smith.
Students who have raised $150 by Friday will be recognized at the assembly and will win a prize.
Catholic Schools Week:
We are excited to share that Archbishop Lori will be here for the 10:30 am Mass on Sunday, January 25th which kicks off Catholic Schools Week! Please note there has been a time adjustment made for Parent Visitation Day. Parent Visitation Day will now be on Wednesday, January 28th from 1:00pm-2:30pm. More information on the full week will be shared after Christmas Break.
We have many fun activities, including the book fair, planned for the week to celebrate our faith, our school, and all those who play a role and contribute to making SJS a loving place for students to learn and grow.
Happy Grams are back for Catholic Schools Week! Celebrate your child, grandchild, nephew, niece, or a friend with a sweet note and a treat. Choose from an SJS Notebook & Pen, a Wolfie highlighter, a 3-pack of Wolfpack-themed stickers, paw print pencils, or a sweet treat, and include a personal message. Students will receive their Happy Grams on Friday, January 30th for Student Appreciation Day. Ordering will close on Wednesday, January 14th. Please note that a limited number of SJS branded items are available, so don't delay in ordering. Place your order here!
Friday, January 16th is not only Spirit Wear Day, but we have a noon dismissal as well. View all spirit wear dates and the recommended order date HERE. There are always new items, so check out the website soon!
Have a blessed week,
Mrs. Lastner
IMPORTANT HOMEROOM (6A) INFORMATION:
Thanks to our fabulous "Room Moms" who planned an amazing Christmas party and to the volunteers who came in to help make sure everything went smoothly. You all did an AMAZING job and we appreciate your hard work very much!
I am happy to report that a good time was had by all, and students were sent home happy and full of Christmas cheer!
Key Dates for the 2025-2026 School Year
Please click here to see all of our key dates for the 2025-2026 school year. These are subject to change at any time.
View all spirit wear dates and the recommended order date HERE. There are always new items, so check out the website soon!
Homework Connection
The next session of dates for Homework Connection are available! Homework Connection is offered for both Elementary students (Gr 1-4) and Middle School students (Gr 5-8). Students may work on homework with the help of teachers on duty, if needed. A snack is provided.
Download the form for Gr 1-4 HERE. Questions about Elementary Homework Connection? Email Mrs. Bennett or Mrs. Meyer.
Download the form for Gr 5-8 HERE. Questions about Middle School Homework Connection? Email Ms. Westfall.
This is my third year at SJS. I have been a teacher for over 20 years and have taught both middle and high school English/Language Arts. I have a B.S. degree in Education from the University of Maryland and a Master's Degree in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment. I also have a Master's Certificate in Reading Instruction from Goucher College.
I am a proud veteran who served in the U.S. Army, and am passionate about using my variety of experiences and knowledge to enhance my teaching.