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SFMS Messenger – April 2018

Monday, April 16th, 2018
April 2018
Communicating With Kindness & Respect
Special Community Circle Held
Every Wednesday during Falcon Time, our students meet in small groups with their advisers to focus on one of multiple topics. On March 14, these small groups participated in a special Community Circle giving students a chance to express what may be on their minds given recent local and national events involving youth. Providing a safe place to talk, group focus was on the positive impact that kindness and respect can have on a school community as well as the greater community of Sheboygan Falls and beyond
.
Read the full story here.
 From the Principal
Happy Spring SFMS Families!
 
As we begin the final quarter of the school year, I would like to take this moment to once again share an appreciation with all SFMS families for your continued support throughout the year. It truly takes collaboration and teamwork to ensure success for all students. We are planning our next “Building Together” meeting on April 26th at 6pm. We would love to hear your thoughts around cell phones, technology, gaming, etc. as we update and review our Acceptable Use Policy in the MS. Hope to see many of you there!
 
Sincerely,
Meloney Markofski
Achieving and Believing
“Oh, for a nook and a storybook. With tales both new and old. For a jolly good book whereon to look. Is better to me than gold.”
— Old English Song.
In celebration of “Read Across America,” fifth graders recently used part of their 10th hour to dive into a good book!
Young Entrepreneurs
7th grade student entrepreneurs prepare storefront posters and ads for this year’s business exposition. The expo, featuring home made products and food items, will be held for 5th and 6th grade shoppers in the gym on Friday, April 13.
Annie Rocks the Stage!
Another stellar performance was given by SFMS students as they entertained all with the musical “Annie Jr.”
“Jazzing” it up
SFMS Jazz Ensemble students just received their individual parts for “Give or Take Five”, a new work for young jazz ensembles by composer Michael Venn. The students will have the opportunity to work with Mr. Venn prior to the premier at the “Jazz Appreciation Month” concert scheduled for Monday, April 23, at 7:00 p.m. in the SFHS Auditorium. This concert will feature the Sheboygan Falls MS & HS Jazz Ensembles as well as the Generations Big Band. 
 
Festival with a Flair for Talent
 
SFMS music students performed in a total of 52 events at the District Solo And Ensemble Festival on Saturday, March 24, 2018 at New Holstein High School. Ratings, ranging from a 1st to a 5th, were awarded to students based on their performances.
Our students earned 37-1st ratings, 13-2nd ratings, and 1-3rd rating. One student earned a *1st rating in Class A on a vocal solo and will be performing at the State Solo & Ensemble Festival in May.
Congratulations to all of our performers!
 
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Grade 5 students at Biz Town
Wisconsin Statewide Parent Educator Initiative (WSPEI)
 
Training Opportunities for
Families of Children with Disabilities
2018-2019
 
What is Parents in Partnership?
Parents in Partnership (PIP) is a statewide program which deepens the ability of families and educators to improve outcomes for students with disabilities. PIP is a leadership development training for parents who have children with disabilities ages 6-14 that takes place over five weekend sessions during the year.
http://wspei.org/families/pip.php
 
What is Youth in Partnership with Parents for Empowerment?
Youth in Partnership with Parents for Empowerment (YiPPE) is an opportunity for youth with disabilities (ages 14-21) and their parents to learn about the transition process in a unique way.
Upcoming Events
April
April 17 – 6th Grade Birds of Prey Program-12:05 MS Auditorium
April 18 – Forward Exam – 8th Grade
April 19 – Forward Exam – 8th Grade
April 20 – Forward Exam – 8th Grade
April 23 – Forward Exam- 6th Grade
 Jazz Concert- MS/HS Jazz Ensembles 7pm HS Auditorium
April 24 – Forward Exam- 6th Grade
April 25 – Forward Exam- 5th Grade
April 26 – Forward Exam- 5th Grade
April 27 – Middle school dance- after school
April 30 – Forward Exam – 7th Grade
 
May
May 1 – Forward Exam- 7th Grade
May 7 – 6-8 Bands Dress Rehearsal- 7:55-9:45 am HS
 6-8 Bands Spring Concert 7pm HS Auditorium
May 14 – 6-8 Chorus Dress Rehearsal 7:55am- 9:45am HS
6-8 Chorus Spring Concert- 7pm HS
May 18 – ‘Jazz in the Park’ MS/.HS Jazz Concert at Settler’s Park
Friday, May 1
 

 

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SFMS Messenger – March 2018

Thursday, March 1st, 2018
March 2018
Going Green Earns A Bronze!
SFMS is now a Sprout School
 
Eighth Grade Teacher Tammy Huenink and Food Service Director Amy Lawrenz have been working on the application for SFMS to become a Green and Healthy School.  SFMS has been accepted as a Sprout School, registered as a Project Learning Tree Green School, and will receive a Bronze award from Eco-Schools USA.  SFMS’s acceptance shows our commitment to reduce environmental impacts and costs, increase health and wellness, and improve environmental and sustainability literacy.
Achieving and Believing
H.O.T. Kids burning up the Alleys
Fifth grade students recently celebrated success at Odyssey Lanes by achieving through the H.O.T. Kids (Homework On Time) program.
Up, Up and Away
​Brain E​weson, from Spaceport Sheboygan, recently spoke to 8th grade students about his passion for space and the space program.
Upcoming Events
Help for the Homeless Drive
Sheboygan Falls Middle School is participating in a donation drive, Help for the Homeless, from February 18- March 11. It is all about helping others who are in need and less fortunate than us! Find the full list of items needed here.
If you would like to donate any items, please bring donation items into school starting February 20. Donation items can be dropped off at designated drive boxes at school in the main office. If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Stanke @ 920.467.7820/7880 or via email at [email protected]
Annie Junior is Coming to Town
The sun will be coming out at Sheboygan Falls Middle School as Annie Junior
begins its 3 day run March 15 through 17. Find all of the ticket and performance
information here.
Art, Art and More Art
The MS Annual Student Art Exhibit will be held March 15-17, the same weekend as the play Annie Junior. Hundreds of pieces of student art including drawings, canvas paintings, sculptures, and weavings will be on display in the cafeteria. In addition, 9 students will have work exhibited at the John Michael Kohler Art Center during the month of March. Admission to this exhibition is free. Finally, students and staff are working on a large scale art instillation for the new Middle School building. Mrs. Fischer will be looking for parent volunteers to help with this in the future. Check out the link below for all of the art news details.
 
Warming Up for Solo & Ensemble Festival
Fifty-two music students are busy preparing for the annual Solo & Ensemble Festival scheduled for Saturday, March 24, at New Holstein High School. SFMS will be represented in a total of 55 solo and small ensemble entries including Show Choir and Jazz Ensemble. We would like to thank our parents ahead of time for supporting their aspiring young musicians by attending their performances. Events are scheduled to begin at 8:00 a.m. A Preliminary Schedule will be available March 9 and a Final Schedule and Site Map will be available March 16. Please contact Mrs. Winkler at [email protected] if you are able to volunteer your time as a homeroom chaperone.
Bits and Pieces
From the Nurse
No one likes to be sick. Everywhere there are record high numbers of the influenza virus. The school policy is for a student to remain free from fever (100.8 or higher) for 24 hours without fever- reducing agents. The only way to stop the spread of the flu is to keep yourself and others home when sick. We encourage parents to read the article below.
 
Dates to Remember
March 1 – MAP testing 5th & 6th Grade
Wrestling @ SF
March 2 – MAP testing 5th & 6th Grade
March 6 – Wrestling @ Chilton
March 8 – Wrestling @ New Holstein
March 12 – Wrestling @ SF
March 13 – Parent/ Teacher Conferences 4-7pm
March 15 – MS Play 7pm- MS Auditorium
MS Play Performance for grades 5/6 – 1pm MS Auditorium
Wrestling Conference Tournament @ Valders
March 16 – MS Play & Art Show 7pm MS Auditorium
MS Play Performance for grades 7/8 – 1pm MS Auditorium
March 17 – MS Play & Art Show 1pm MS Auditorium
MS Play & Art Show 7pm MS Auditorium
March 24 – MS Solo Ensemble Festival- New Holstein HS
March 26 – 6th Grade Choral Concert 7pm MS Auditorium
6th Grade Band Concert- 7:30 MS Auditorium
6th Grade School Concert for grades 5 & 6
March 29 -NO SCHOOL for Students or Staff
March 30 – NO SCHOOL for Students or Staff
April 2 – NO SCHOOL for Students or Staff
 

 

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SFMS Messenger: January/February 2018

Thursday, February 1st, 2018
 January/February 2018
In the Spirit of Giving
FBLA is Creating Smiles One Toy at a Time
Because each member of FBLA has known someone affected by cancer,
the group decided to support the Project Angel Hugs Birthday Box Drive in December. M
any items were collected, which were packed into birthday boxes for kids going through cancer treatment.
Middle School Construction Update
From the Principal
Dear Parents,
 
As our new building continues to take shape we are very busy planning behind the scenes and would love to hear your thoughts on the work we have been doing. We are also interested in hearing from our families about what items are of priority for you and your child next school year. Please consider attending a “Building Together” meeting with a few middle school teachers and Ms. Markofski on February 15 at 6 pm in the middle school library. 
 
Thank you,
Ms. Markofski
Helping students on their own individualized academic and career paths is part of our mission.
Achieving and Believing
And The Winner Is…
7th Graders completing in Minute-to-Win-It Games during Falcon Time with Mrs. Schreurs
Magical Musical Moments
 
The highlight of our annual Grades 6-12 Bands Winter Concert is the finale! This year we performed “North Pole Sleigh Ride” for a full house. The middle school students really enjoy being able to “partner up” with a high school student to perform for all of their family and friends. 
 
On January 23, the Sheboygan Falls & Plymouth Riverview MS Jazz Ensembles entertained multiple audiences of daycare children through senior citizens throughout the day with a clinic and concert at the Generations Intergenerational Center. Jeff Schieble, local jazz educator, shared his wealth of knowledge with all of us. The event was so well received that both bands have been invited back next year.
All K-12 Summer School classes to be held at Sheboygan Falls High School
 
In order to accommodate the construction on the elementary and new middle school sites, and keep students out of harm’s way during the final stages of construction, all K-12 summer school courses will be held at the high school campus. District administration is in the process of planning with teachers, office staff, and custodial staff to make the single campus experience manageable for all students.
read more
 
SAFETY FIRST
Morning Drop-Off Reminder
 
Parents, please remember, in order to keep the children safe during drop-off in the morning do NOT stop in the coned area. It is very busy and congested. Some students are getting out of vehicles on the left-hand side of cars, which puts them in the line of traffic. Please drop off quickly and safely and watch for emerging students. Also, please do not block the parking lot entrance as staff are trying to get in the lot as well. Thank you for your cooperation.
Connect With Us!
 
The School District of Sheboygan Falls works hard to provide parents with up-to-date information. In fact, on our recent parent communication survey, participating parents reported a 90% satisfaction with overall district communication. We feel great about that, but don’t want to assume that everyone knows How to Connect with school. So, here is a handy info-graphic of all the ways you can stay connected with your student’s teacher, school, and district!
Dates to Remember
 
February 1: Girls Basketball vs. Manitowoc Wilson Gr. 8 at Manitowoc Wilson “B” team @ 4pm / “A” team @ 5pm Gr. 7 at MS
February 6: Girls Basketball vs. Two Rivers Gr. 8 at Two Rivers Gr. 7 at MS
February 8: Girls Basketball Gr. 7 & 8 @ New Holstein
February 15: Girls Basketball @ Home vs. Plymouth Gr. 7 at ES Gr. 8 at MS
February 16: NO SCHOOL for Students or Staff
February 19: NO SCHOOL for Students/Professional Development for Staff
February 20: Wrestling @ Mishicot
February 26: MAP testing 7th & 8th Grade
February 27: MAP testing 7th & 8th Grade Wrestling @ Valders
Bits & Pieces
 
Check out the January
Tidbit Times for winter suggestions from our nurses and the Public Health Dept.
The February edition celebrates both American Heart Month and National Children’s Dental Month.
Click here for more details.
 

 

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SFMS Messenger: December 2017

Tuesday, December 19th, 2017
December 2017

new middle school construction as of Dec 2
Greetings!
Happy Holidays SFMS Families!
I would like to wish everyone a joyous holiday season and thank you for your continued support and involvement in your child’s progress. Please continue to help foster the concept of having a “growth mindset” daily. Everyone makes mistakes and learn from their mistakes which is a part of learning and growing. Persistence and resilience are skills we hope to instill in all children.
As we continue to plan for our new surroundings and get ready for next school year, we are nearing the time to begin sharing our thoughts with all of you.  Please consider attending an informational meeting on February 15 at 6 pm in the middle school library to share your feedback. More details about the topics for discussion will be coming out after the holidays.
Sincerely,

Meloney Markofski, Principal 
Sheboygan Falls Middle School

Upcoming Events

On January 22, 2018, Sheboygan Falls Middle School will be having a presentation on drug prevention and abuse. Parents are invited to attend as well. All 5th and 6th grade students will attend the presentation from 8:45-9:45 am and all 7th and 8th grade students will attend the presentation from 10-11 am. The presentation will take place in the Middle School Auditorium. If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Britne Stanke (School Counselor, grades 3-5) via email at [email protected].wi.us or by phone at 920-467-7880. We are very excited to have this educational opportunity and experience for our students.

 
EIGHTH GRADE SCIENCE
In January all eighth grade students will be sharing their Science Genius Time projects.  Each student selected a topic they are passionate about and they have spent the first semester researching and creating products that will teach others what they have learned.

 
FBLA IS ON THE MOVE
The Middle School FBLA group has been busy planning a number of service projects and fund raisers.  Please help them out by contributing to or attending one of the events listed below.
Project Angel Hugs is a charity based in Plymouth that serves the needs of children dealing with cancer. FBLA will be collecting items from the wish list for the Birthday Boxes they send out to patients throughout the year.  Our collection runs from December 11-21. Please check this Project Angel Hugs list for more information.
FBLA is holding a fundraiser at Buffalo Wild Wings on December 20.  Print or show this  Buffalo Wild Wings ticket at the restaurant to benefit the group.
Culver’s Night is set for January 24, 2018 at the Washington Avenue location. Take this Culver’s Family Night flyer along to get a 10% donation of your order to FBLA.
Hands-on Learning

BUDDING SCIENTISTS
Fifth grade students studied plate tectonics. The students simulated convergent, divergent, and transform boundaries, as the lithosphere moved on top of the asthenosphere.

Students in Ms. Probst’s science/writing class have their published writing hanging throughout the building.  Parents are welcome to check out their students’ hard work!
MUMMY, WHERE ARE YOU?
Sixth graders in Miss T’s classroom practiced the art of mummification last week. The students are learning about the social class system and how it compares to today.
UP, UP AND AWAY
As part of our Academic and Career Planning (ACP) initiatives, the eighth graders recently went to Acuity to learn about college and career readiness.  They also had some time to ride the Ferris wheel.

NURSE NOTES
Check out the latest edition of December Tidbit Times for Winter Weather Tips and so much more!

Remember When 

The “Buy a Jeep” Campaign of 1943
There were many ways that citizens and schools could aid the  troops during World War II.  One way was through the buying of war bonds and stamps. This happened on a yearly basis at Sheboygan Falls High School. In 1945 alone, the school raised just over $3,000 for the war effort. In 1943, the U.S. government sponsored a war bond/stamp drive with the slogan, “Buy a Jeep.” For this campaign, schools would have a goal of $900 to purchase a new jeep for the army. The jeep would then be sent and displayed at the school before being shipped off to Europe.
Sheboygan Falls took this challenge and between January 27 and February 9, 1943, the student council encouraged the sale of war stamps and bonds. They met their goal and waited for the day to arrive to see what they purchased.
 In April of 1943, the U.S. government sent the jeep and students lined up along school street to catch a glimpse of the vehicle. Once it arrived, students clamored nearer to get a look at it. Students sat in the jeep, and posed for the yearbook staff. The jeep was then paraded through the city, citizens lining up along the way to get a glimpse at it. It was then shipped off to the U.S. army.
Sheboygan Falls High School was not the only area school involved in the campaign. According to various Sheboygan Press articles from February of 1943, Jefferson and Grant elementary schools in Sheboygan raised enough funds for three jeeps. Chilton High School also raised enough for a jeep. The Press writes that “this being a dairy community, the jeep will be christened with a bottle of milk.” (Sheboygan Press, 2/25/1943).

Important Dates For Your Calendar
December 19 – 5th Grade Winter Program 12 p.m. MS Auditorium
 Boys Basketball vs. Manitowoc Washington: gr. 8 @ Manitowoc Washington
gr. 7 @ Home MS
December 22 – Preview Concert for 8th Grade students- 8 a.m. MS Aud.
December 25 – HOLIDAY: No School for Students or Staff
December 26 through January 1, 2018  – Winter Break: NO SCHOOL
January 9  –  Girls Basketball at Manitowoc Washington: gr. 7 @ 3:45/ gr. 8 @4:45
January 11 – Girls Basketball vs. Two Rivers: gr. 8 @ SFMS
       gr. 7 @ Two Rivers
January 12 – MS Talent Show 6:30 p.m. MS Auditorium
January 15 – Spanish Placement Test- 8th Grade
January 16 – Girls Basketball vs. New Holstein: gr. 8 @ MS
   gr. 7 @ ES
     Spanish Placement Test- 8th Grade
January 18 – Spanish Placement Test make-up date
January 19 – MS Dance after school
                     Spanish Placement Test make-up date
January 22 – Lambert Family Program: gr. 5 & 6 @ 8:45 am
      gr. 7 & 8 10 am
January 23 – Girls Basketball @ Plymouth
     SFMS Jazz Ensemble Clinic & Concert- Plymouth
January 25 – Girls Basketball vs. Manitowoc Washington at HOME: gr. 7 (1 game) @ SFMS @ 3:45
   gr. 8 (1 game) @ SFMS @4:45
January 26 – NO SCHOOL for Students/Professional Development for Staff
January 29 – Freshman Curriculum Night- SFHS 5:30 pm
January 30 – Girls Basketball @ Kiel
School District of Sheboygan Falls
Sheboygan Falls Middle School 
101 School Street, Sheboygan Falls, WI  53085  |  Phone: 920-467-7880

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SFMS Messenger – October 2017

Tuesday, October 31st, 2017
October, 2017

Greetings!
Thank you for a terrific start to the final year at 101 School Street! I hope everyone is enjoying this fabulous time of year! Below are two important notes for everyone.
1. How has the one to one chrome-book initiative helped all students become more invested in their learning? As the middle school transitions from a Response to Intervention (RtI) framework to a Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework, what does that mean? Take a look at this 4 minute 33 second video to learn more about what UDL is and how teachers strive to meet the needs of ALL children within the universal classroom.
2. On October 23rd, all students enrolled in grades 7 and 9 took the Wisconsin Online Youth Risk Behavior Survey (OYRBS), unless parents have opted their child out. The School District of Sheboygan Falls will use the survey results to help measure how many youth engage in risk behaviors. From there, the survey results will then be used to create school programs to help reduce these risk behaviors and promote health enhancing behaviors.
Q: What does the OYRBS measure and why are these things important?
A: The OYRBS focuses on health-related behaviors that result in the most significant mortality, morbidity, and social problems during both adolescences and adulthood. These include: 1) behaviors that result in unintentional and intentional injuries; 2) tobacco use; 3) alcohol and other drug use; 4) sexual behaviors that may result in HIV infection, other sexually transmitted diseases, and unintended pregnancies; 5) dietary behaviors; and 6) physical activity. The OYRBS measures student attitude and perceptions related to health-related behaviors. In addition, the OYRBS measures assets and these assets have the power to protect youth from engaging in risk behaviors and at the same time promote healthy behaviors.  More information is available on the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction website.
Sincerely,

Meloney Markofski, Principal 
Sheboygan Falls Middle School

Remember When: 

1985 LIBRARY RENOVATION
Begun in the spring of 1985, the first phase of the multi-part renovation of the Sheboygan Falls Middle & Elementary School included a complete remodel of the library facilities. As former Superintendent, Norman Frakes, explained in an October 1985 Falls Newsletter, “The selection of [the library] was a natural one as the entire school population would benefit by the needed improvements.” The phase was completed by the fall of 1985. It boasted a separate K-2 section (now the library computer lab) and a grade 3-8 section. Before the remodel, the space had been used for business ed. and typing classrooms. Originally, the space was the location of the gym.
Challenging and Supporting Students

REPORT CARDS ARE GOING DIGITAL
In an effort to cut printing and mailing costs, the district will no longer be mailing report cards.  Report cards will be posted to your Infinite Campus Parent Portal and you will be able to print the report card from there.  The first quarter report cards will be posted no later than November 17th.  When report cards are posted, an Infinite Campus message will go out to all parents through e-mail and your parent portal message inbox.
If you need help logging into your parent portal, please call you child’s school office for assistance.
SFES – 920-467-7820
SFMS- 920-467-7880
SFHS – 920-467- 7890

NURSE NOTES
According to the CDC, 40% of Children aged 5-17 miss 3 or more school days in a year due to illness or injury. Overall, nearly 22 million school days are lost each year due to colds alone, and 38 million school days are lost due to the flu.

To Stay healthy, parents should:
-keep your children home if they are sick
-teach your children to how to properly wash their hands
-offer children a diet rich in fruits and vegetables
-avoid caffeine and sugary foods.

ABC’s of Antibiotics

    COUNSELOR’S CORNER – Falcon Time on Wednesdays
One of the exciting changes this year at the middle school is our Wednesday Falcon Time Advisement Period. Staff members are serving as advisers to their Wednesday Falcon Time students to help build better relationships and connections to our school community. In addition, during our Wednesday Falcon Time periods, students and staff will partake in lessons, activities and discussions with a focus on creating a better sense of belonging and community. Each Wednesday of the month has a different theme. The themes are: Academic and Career Planning, Mental Health & Well-Being, Character Traits and Community Circles. The pictures above are from a class that was participating in a cooperation character trait activity on October 18th. Teachers emphasized the importance of working together, instead of leaving people out, as a way to tie our October Bully Prevention Awareness Month to our character trait theme.

DATE SET FOR REQUIRED HUMAN GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING
Wisconsin Statute 118.019 states that school districts that offer human growth and development must have an advisory committee appointed by the school board and composed of parents, teachers, school administrators, pupils, health care professionals, members of the clergy and other residents of the school district to advise on the design and implementation of the human growth and development curriculum and to review the curriculum. Although not included in the current statute, to keep the Human Growth and Development curriculum current, a regular review of the curriculum is recommended at least every three years.
Community and staff members are invited to the advisory meeting on November 13, 2017, from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the SFMS library. Community and staff members interested in participating should contact Director of Instruction Mary Lofy Blahnik at District Office 920-467-7893 or email [email protected]

Important Dates For Your Calendar
November 2 – Boys Basketball @ New Holstein
November 4 – Lawrence Jazz Festival
November 10 – Veteran’s Day Program 8:30 a.m.
November 13 – Jazz Concert- MS/HS Jazz Ensembles 7 p.m. HS Auditorium
November 14 – Boys Basketball @ Home against Kiel, gr. 8 @ MS, gr. 7 @ ES
November 16 – Boys Basketball @ Plymouth
November 17 – MS Music Department Fundraiser Reward Activity
November 21 – Boys Basketball vs. Two Rivers: 8th @ TR, 7 @ Home
November 23 – NO SCHOOL
November 24 – NO SCHOOL
November 28 – Boys Basketball vs. Manitowoc Washington; gr. 8 @ Home, Gr. 7 @ Manitowoc
November 30 – Boys Basketball vs. Manitowoc Wilson; gr. 8 @ Home, gr. 7 @ Manitowoc
December 2 – Main Street Memories- MS/HS bands perform
December 4 – 6-12 Choirs Dress Rehearsal 7:55 – 9:45 a.m.  HS
               6-12 Winter Choir Concert 7 p.m. HS Auditorium
December 5 – Boys Basketball Home vs. New Holstein; gr. 8 @ MS, gr. 7 @ ES
December 11 – 6-12 Band Concert 7pm HS Auditorium
        6-12 Bands Dress Rehearsal 7:55-9:45 a.m.
December 12 – Boys Basketball @ Kiel
December 14 – Boys Basketball @ Home against Plymouth; gr. 8 @ MS, gr. 7 @ ES
December 19 – 5th Grade Winter Program 12 p.m. MS Auditorium
 Boys Basketball vs. Manitowoc Washington; gr. 8 @ Manitowoc Washington
gr. 7 @ Home MS
December 22 – Preview Concert for 8th Grade students- 8 a.m. MS Aud.
School District of Sheboygan Falls
Sheboygan Falls Middle School 
101 School Street, Sheboygan Falls, WI  53085  |  Phone: 920-467-7880

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SFMS Messenger – September 2017

Monday, September 18th, 2017
September, 2017

We’re Back!
Greetings!
Welcome Back!  What an exciting time this is as we open our school doors at 101 School Street for the last time.  Watch for exciting transition up-dates in upcoming newsletters.
As we know, most students are “ready to return” by the end of August.  It is not uncommon for students to set high expectations for themselves at the start of the school year. Let’s build on these positive thoughts by helping our children meet their goals. Here are a few suggestions:
  • Make sure your children fill out their assignment planner daily. Help them set timelines for completing work. If the planner is forgotten, parents and students are welcome to come back to pick up forgotten materials.  The school is open until 5 PM.
  • At least weekly check Infinite Campus with your children. As grades are entered, they are automatically available to you online. Contact Lisa Berg at SFMS if you have questions about gaining access.
  • Set a study time after school and encourage your children to stick to it.
  • Frequently talk to your children about assignments and their progress with them. If they feel nagged, remind them nagging is just another way of saying “I love you.”
  • Teach your children to be an advocate for their own learning.  Teach them to make appointments after school with their teachers to get help. If they don’t ask, they are less likely to receive the help they need.  It is important to ask questions and get help in order to learn.
Thank you in advance for your partnership this year.
Sincerely,

Meloney Markofski, Principal 

Sheboygan Falls Middle School
Come Grow with Us!

Students in grade 5 exploring structural engineering through a design brief challenge in Ms. Probst’s science classes.

Grade 7 science students from Mrs. Kaiser’s class working on a Cup Challenge that focused on communication and teamwork.

Choices, Choices and More Choices!

ALA CARTE IS HERE!
Ala Carte lunch items will be available for all grades at the middle school, including our 5th graders, starting September 18.  What does this mean?  MORE CHOICES!
Parents, we all know that children don’t always make the best choice.  Please have a conversation with your them about Ala Carte.  Discuss with them the types of items you will allow them to purchase.  Cookies are available for $0.75 on Mondays & Thursdays.  All other Ala Carte items are offered on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. The list of items offered and prices can be found on the Food Service website or by clicking on the link below.  Students may either pay for Ala Carte items with cash, or take them from their lunch accounts, as long as there is a positive balance in the account. If you do not want your child to purchase Ala Carte items, you are able to block that by contacting Lisa Bocchini at the district office.
Pizza will be offered every day this year, so that means students will have 3 entree choices they can pick from for their lunch.
Don’t forget we also offer breakfast (it’s Free to Free/Reduced Students), after school Falcon packs for any after school event, field trip lunches and if you want us to supply the class with some healthy snacks for a birthday or whatever the occasion we can do that too. These forms can all be found under forms for families on the web page.
*Special Note – In a few weeks, ice cream will again be sold  on Wednesdays.  This is a fundraiser for student council and not sold through the school lunch program.  Students have to pay for ice cream with cash.  They may not use their lunch accounts for this.
Challenging and Supporting Students

RESOURCES AVAILABLE
There are many great resources in our area available for families.  See the links below for some of them.

Important Dates For Your Calendar
SEPTEMBER
September 19 – Cross Country @ Plymouth
September 21 – Volleyball @ Kiel
September 25 – Volleyball @ Home against Plymouth
September 26 – Volleyball @ Two Rivers
September 28 – Pumpkin Run
September 29 – Music Department Fundraiser Orders Due
OCTOBER
October 2 – Volleyball at Home against Manitowoc Washington
October 5 – Cross Country @ Campbellsport
Volleyball Home against Manitowoc Wilson
October 9 – 6th Grade Band Concert
6th Grade Chorus Concert
Volleyball at New Holstein
October 12 – Cross Country @ Valders
October 13 – 7th Grade school Concert for grades 5-7
October 16 – 7th Grade Band/ Chorus Concert
 Volleyball at Home against Kiel
October 17 –  Art Fieldtrip
 Volleyball at Plymouth
October 18 – Art Fieldtrip
October 19 – NO SCHOOL for Students/Professional Development for Staff
October 20 – NO SCHOOL for Students or Staff
October 23 – 5th Grade to Sheboygan County Historical Museum
 MS Fundraiser delivery
 Volleyball at Manitowoc Washington 3:30pm
 Boys basketball practice starts
October 24 – 5th Grade to Sheboygan County Historical Museum
October 26 – Parent/Teacher Conference
October 30 – Parent Teacher Conferences
School District of Sheboygan Falls
Sheboygan Falls Middle School 
101 School Street, Sheboygan Falls, WI  53085  |  Phone: 920-467-7880

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SFMS Messenger – May 2017

Tuesday, May 16th, 2017
May 2017

Heading into the Final Stretch!
Greetings!
Signs of spring are all around us and we find ourselves facing the “final stretch” to the end of another school year.  If you are like the rest of us, you’re probably finding yourselves making the same statement over and over again; “I can’t believe how fast this school year has gone!”  As unbelievable as it may seem, we are  into the final quarter of the 2016-2017 school year!
The students have spent this school year making new friends, broadening their points of view, and preparing for life outside of school.  While test scores and report cards are one measure of growth, they aren’t the only measure.  This year students have been involved in many different outreach activities, reemphasizing the importance of giving back to our community.  They have competed in academic, athletic, and fine arts competitions, developing collaborative skills that will benefit them in many different ways.
Enjoy the remainder of the year!  Please do not hesitate to contact me or the staff as needed.
Sincerely,
Meloney Markofski, Principal 
Sheboygan Falls Middle School

Reaching Out to Others

DANCING FOR THE DOGS (CATS, RABBITS AND MORE)
As a community outreach, the Cast of 101 Dalmatians matched the donations that were donated at the art fair. These funds were then donated to the Sheboygan County Humane Society. Thank you for all of your commitment to the community and to help the pets at large.

SCHS Thank You
Learning Beyond the Book
Grade 5 Update
The fifth grade wing is full of ‘Mad Scientists’.  Students have begun to work on their chemistry standards this final quarter.  Students had the opportunity to observe and change matter.  Several physical changes included changing the shape of matter, changing the state of matter, and mixing matter.  They also watched and conducted their own experiments on chemical changes.  Students recognized that chemical changes can not be undone easily and result in a new substance.  There were lots of ‘ah ha’ moments as the students created these changes.
In writing, students have worked to argue their point on whether or not chocolate milk should be served in our school cafeterias.  Many were amazed at the nutritional value of chocolate milk while others were amazed at the amount of sugar that students were consuming in a year from chocolate milk.  They presented their research to Mr. Nikson, Ms. Markofski, and Mrs. Lawrenz.

Mrs. Powers and Mrs. Miles fifth grade math class just wrapped up a unit on volume. They started   by learning about one cubic unit and through this process, ended up creating real world situations!  Students used the Makerspace to create models of skyscrapers, calculated volume of their models, converted their results to the volume of the actual skyscraper, and lastly presented their project to their class. Students enjoyed the hands on application of what they learned through out this unit!

FURNITURE OF THE FUTURE PROVIDES FOCUS, FLEXIBILITY AND FUN!
To help the Sheboygan Falls Middle School Learning Community prepare for our new learning spaces, our Read 180 literacy classroom was chosen as one of the demonstration rooms to try out a variety of flexible furniture.  Students and educators alike are finding the furniture comfortable and functional while providing the ability to adapt to many learning tasks.

BEAT THE SUMMER SLIDE!
WHO? YOU! SFMS students going into grades 6 through 9!
WHAT? Access to Study Island!  Study Island and your personalized NWEA Learning Path  provides lessons and practice to keep your math, reading and language skills SHARP over the summer!  You can also access many other academic areas you are interested in, such as social studies/history and science!
WHEN? Anytime!  Participate on your own schedule between June 9th and July 27th, 2017!
WHERE? Anywhere you have an Internet connection!  Access Study Island at the public library or on your smartphone, tablet, laptop or desktop computer!
WHY?  Beat the summer slide or summer learning loss! Research shows many students experience learning loss when they are not engaged in educational activities during the summer. Additionally, some score lower on standardized tests at the end of the summer vacation than they do on the same test at the beginning of summer vacation. Return to school on top of your game!
HOW? Use your personal Study Island login and password! All students have a login and password, which has been used in various classrooms throughout the school year.  If you’re not sure what yours is, contact Mrs. Fiorini at [email protected].
TO PARTICIPATE… Login to Study Island and send Mrs. Fiorini a message saying you want to BEAT THE SUMMER SLIDE! Go to the message tab located at the top of your homepage and then click compose message.
ANYTHING ELSE? Yes! How about cool prizes? Student time and progress on their personalized NWEA Learning Paths will be monitored over the summer. Prizes will be awarded at the start of the new school year!   For more info on using Study Island, go to the Help tab, then Training and Tutorials, and Videos. Questions? Email Mrs. Fiorini at [email protected]

Counselors’ Corner

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH
When we think of good health, most people think first of their physical health. Physical illnesses are often easier to diagnose and treat than mental illnesses, yet mental health is a key factor in overall health. Mental Health Awareness Month in May offers many opportunities to highlight specific aspects of mental health. For more information, see below.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

ACADEMIC AND CAREER PLANNING (ACP)
 
Academic and Career Planning, or ACP, is a student-driven, adult-supported process in which students create and cultivate their own unique and information-based visions for post secondary success, obtained through self-exploration, career exploration, and the development of career management and planning skills.
For more information, see the middle school ACP site.

Nurse Notes
Tidbit Times
 
Summer Safety – see that article and more in the May Tidbit Times.

Calendar
MAY
May 16 – 6th Grade Marsh field trip
May 18 – 6th Grade to Marsh field trip
May 19 – 6th Grade fieldtrip to Marsh
                Jazz in the Park- MS/HS Jazz Ensembles- Settlers’ Park
May 22 – 6th Grade to the Marsh fieldtrip
May 23 – 6th Grade to the Marsh fieldtrip
May 24 – 8th Grade Band- Band Festival at the Kalahari
May 25 – 6th Grade to the Marsh
May 26 – NO SCHOOL for Students or Staff
May 29 – HOLIDAY: No School for Students or Staff
May 30 – 5th Grade Band Parent Meeting -6:30pm-MS Aud.
JUNE
June 6 – 8th Grade Recognition- HS Auditorium
June 7 – 8th Grade Trip
June 8 – LAST DAY FOR STUDENTS- Early Release- ES/11:00 MS/11:10 HS/11:15
     8th grade No school
JULY
July 25 – District Registration/Picture Day-HS Cafeteria- 9:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Groundbreaking set for June 1, 2017

Groundbreaking for the new
Sheboygan Falls Middle School
Thursday, June 1, 2017
12 Noon
Gather in front of the
Sheboygan Falls Elementary School
1 Alfred Miley Ave, Sheboygan Falls, WI  53085
Since November, when the community supported a referendum to build a new middle school, many details and plans have been finalized. The time has come to put the shovel in the ground and proceed with the project.
Groundbreaking Activities

Welcome and comments

Reading of winning student essay

Sixth-grade band performance

Groundbreaking ceremony
If you plan to attend, please RSVP to Julie Hahn at [email protected]. Thank you!

2017-18 Registration Date Set

SAVE THE DATE
The registration date for the 2017-18 school year has been set for July 25 from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Please note: registration is just ONE day this summer and will take place at the High School.  Registration notifications, forms, and payments will all be done through Infinite Campus and convenience fees are waived during July and August.  If online registration and fee payment are completed prior to this date, the only thing that will have to be done at registration will be to have your student photographed and pick up schedules/teacher assignments.

Students unable to attend registration day will be able to make up photos in September after school starts.
School District of Sheboygan Falls
Sheboygan Falls Middle School 
101 School Street, Sheboygan Falls, WI  53085  |  Phone: 920-467-7880

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SFMS Messenger – April 2017

Tuesday, April 11th, 2017
April 2017

What is Autism Awareness Month?
Greetings!
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others. More than 3.5 million Americans currently live with ASD, and 1 in 68 children are born with a variation of it, so it’s likely you know, whether or not you’re aware of it, someone on the autism spectrum.
With a growing incidence in the country, The Autism Society was founded in 1965 and in the early 1970s began a nationwide campaign to raise awareness. The first National Autism Awareness Month occurred in April of 1970. Nearly 50 years later, April is still celebrated as a time to raise awareness around the differences of those on the spectrum, supporting people and educating the public on autism.  source = http://www.autism-society.org/
Sincerely,
Meloney Markofski, Principal 
Sheboygan Falls Middle School
Learning beyond the book

Grade 8 Update
 
The Eighth grade visited Lakeshore Technical College. They toured the Agriculture and Energy building and learned about the Wind Energy program and what working with turbines looks like. Students practiced putting on harnesses to climb the turbines and also how to do a rescue if someone was injured. They also learned about the Health Care/Nursing clinical skills programs and how to safely move patients. In addition, students toured the Welding and fabrication career areas and learned about various manufacturing careers using welding, plasma cutters, and robotics. Finally, the last area toured was the Public Safety building and Criminal Justice careers. Students saw a video of police training and asked questions of law enforcement officials.
Grade 5 Update
The 5th grade students have been gearing up for Junior Achievement BizTown!  The program focuses on business management, business and personal finances, and citizenship. The lessons encourage them to think like entrepreneurs and how to make a profit.  Citizenship lessons have the students reflect on what it means to hold yourself to a high virtue to make a difference in a community.  Recently, several 5th graders ran for mayor and DJ of JA BizTown.  They gave speeches and all students cast a ballot for mayor and DJ.  Another wonderful part of the program is working with local businesses to give the students real world connections and experiences.  Mrs. Cynthia Roeck comes to us from Cleveland State Bank to share finance lessons.  Bemis Manufacturing came to to do interviews with the students to give them job application experience.  We took our trip April 3 where students ran Biz Town for a whole day!

Grade 6 Mesoamerica project
Each sixth grade student ended the third quarter by creating a project related to the Olmec, Maya, Aztec, or Inca civilizations. Students had to research their topics and write accompanying papers. After that, they presented their knowledge about the topic to their classmates and community members who served as panelists.

Grade 7 Business Expo
On Friday March 31, seventh grade entrepreneurs participated in our annual business expo. Fifth and sixth grade shoppers had the opportunity to purchase products which were created and marketed by seventh grade students. Through this experience, 7th graders gained insight into economic concepts such as supply and demand. We also focused on different economic roles individuals play such as consumer, worker, citizen, decision maker, saver, and global participant. These skills will be vital for future participation in the highly competitive 21st century global market. Some of the outstanding products our students created included: painted pottery, locker magnets, micro chip key-chains, and video games. Many students and teachers commented on the ingenuity demonstrated by the students as well as the overall success of the 2017 Expo.

READ 180
The READ 180 eighth graders are currently involved in a project-based learning experience.  After completing their “Creatures of the Deep” workshop, collaborative teams chose topics to extend their learning while focusing on a specific audience. Some chosen audience members include: classroom teachers, related studies instructors and classrooms. As students use Google Drive to create an infographics presentation, they are challenged when considering appropriate information, vocabulary, and images. Understanding their audience’s interests, background, and personality is key to creating an effective presentation. Through this project-based learning experience, students will exercise 21st Century skills which include: Information Literacy, Media Literacy, Communication and Collaboration, and Critical Thinking and Problem Solving.

2017-18 Registration Date Set

SAVE THE DATE
The registration date for the 2017-18 school year has been set for July 25 from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Please note: registration is just ONE day this summer and will take place at the High School.  Registration notifications, forms, and payments will all be done through Infinite Campus and convenience fees are waived during July and August.  If online registration and fee payment are completed prior to this date, the only thing that will have to be done at registration will be to have your student photographed and pick up schedules/teacher assignments.
Students unable to attend registration day will be able to make up photos in September after school starts.
Summer School deadline April 18

Just a reminder – Summer School registration is now available online. If you are unable to complete online registration, please contact the school office for paper versions of the course guide and registration form.
Nurse Notes
Tidbit Times
 
The Public Health Department puts out a great little newsletter called Tidbit Times. Check out the link below for this month’s issue.
Message from SRO

from School Resource Officer Hall:


Middle School parents, please be good to our neighbors and avoid blocking driveways around the middle school during student drop off and pick up.

Calendar
APRIL
April 10 – Jazz Concert- MS/HS Jazz Ensembles- 7pm- HS Aud.
April 13 – NO SCHOOL for Students or Staff
April 14 – NO SCHOOL for Students or Staff
April 17 – NO SCHOOL for Students or Staff
MAY
May 8 – 6-8 Bands Dress Rehersal – 7:55-9:45am-HS
              6-8 Spring Bands Concert-7pm HS
May 15 – 6-8 Chorus Dress Rehearsal- 7:55-9:45- HS
                 6-8 Chorus Spring Concert- 7pm- HS
May 16 – 6th Grade Marsh field trip
May 18 – 6th Grade to Marsh field trip
May 19 – 6th Grade fieldtrip to Marsh
                Jazz in the Park- MS/HS Jazz Ensembles- Settlers’ Park

Beginning the Community Conversation about Mental Health and Wellness

A Community Conversation was held in early March to open lines of communication with interested community members about mental health and wellness.
On Monday March 6, the District hosted “Think Haus,” an initiative of Lakeland University to engage in community conversations. The evening’s topic was mental health and wellness and the importance of information and community involvement in finding support for those affected. The event was held at the Sheboygan Falls Memorial Library and was open to the public.

Christie Gause-Bemis, a Department of Public Instruction education consultant, spoke with an interested crowd of approximately 30 community members. Ann Roy, director of student services, co-presented. Gause-Bemis underscored the importance of community involvement.

As more and more school districts and communities become increasingly aware of the need for more mental health services, the District is seeking to be proactive and open up lines of communication as it seeks community collaboration.
To guide its efforts, amongst other things, the District completed the State of Wisconsin’s Mental Health Assessment of the District.  Using the results, a core committee of staff members, working with Ann Roy, have identified five core priorities for the District, including:
1. Help all staff learn more about mental health, including mental illness and wellness.
2. Identify and “map” system-wide resources that exist to address mental health issues.
3. Provide opportunities for all students to learn more about mental health.
4. Implement mental health wellness curriculum.
5. Develop a clear and consistent referral process, including referral to outside resources.
Roy also presented to the Board of Education earlier in April about this topic. Roy presented these priorities and other detailed information to the Board of Education about the mental health issues affecting the schools. She explained the actions that have been taken already and discussed possible future actions. The presentation was intended to provide the Board with an in-depth look at this issue as the District plans its next steps.

Learn More
School District of Sheboygan Falls
Sheboygan Falls Middle School 
101 School Street, Sheboygan Falls, WI  53085  |  Phone: 920-467-7880

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SFMS Messenger – March 2017

Thursday, March 2nd, 2017
March 2017

Growth Mindset
Growth Mindset – Why is it so important for students, teachers and parents?
Perhaps you have noticed the many signs around SFMS reminding students, teachers, and our visitors about the power of having a growth mindset.  Throughout the year, teachers and students have been engaging in frequent conversations around this topic. For example, many of us can recall during our educational years (or even in adulthood) times in which we professed that we were “not good” at something (math, music, athletics, etc.). Our mindset can dictate personal growth and we are working to change that phrase to “not good YET.” If you have determined that math is not your subject yet, over time, you start to believe it it will be. This is why our work around mindset is so important.
You never know what you can do when you start to believe in the power of yet.
Sincerely,
Meloney Markofski, Principal 
Sheboygan Falls Middle School
“Firing Up”  Education

8th grade science
Brad Nesper and Nick Wilbert from Wisconsin Public Service explain to Ms. Huenink’s 8th grade science classes about natural gas safety, career possibilities and the flammability range of natural gas. Students enjoyed the demonstrations that focused on flammability range.
Learning beyond the book
Grade 5 Update
While winter weather has been cooling things down outside, the 5th graders have been heating things up with super-fast roller coasters. The fifth graders have looked at gravity and the engineering process over the past few weeks.  Our culminating project focused on roller coaster building.  Their goal was to create a roller coaster that had the longest and most stable ride.  Students worked on producing enough kinetic energy to get their marble to travel the whole distance of the roller coaster. Some roller coasters lasted as long as 40 seconds! This hands-on project was created out of paper, tape, and lots of creativity.

Grade 6 Update
The sixth grade class visited the Milwaukee Public Museum on Friday, February 3. In addition to viewing the Wisconsin Stargazing show, they saw the “Crossroads of Civilization” exhibit and other items related to their study of  Mesopotamia, Egypt, China, and Central and South America.

Sixth graders also had the opportunity to become experts about Chinese inventions. Each pair of students chose an invention from three different categories. After that, they researched the inventions and chose a way to present the information to their classmates. When students went through the gallery to view their classmates’ projects, they took notes so the could write an argumentative paragraph about which invention had the greatest impact.

READ 180
Mary Calkins came to talk to our Read 180 sixth graders about her family’s business – Lake Orchard Farm Aquaponics.  She shared with the students the advantages of this type of food production.  We learned that this type of farming provides pesticide-free food that is clean, sustainable, and of premium quality.  We also learned that produce can be grown locally throughout the year by using this method.
Summer School registration now online

Summer School registration is now available online. If you are unable to complete online registration, please contact the school office for paper versions of the course guide and registration form.
Nurse Notes
Preventing the Flu: Good Health Habits Can Help Stop Germs
 
The single best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each year, but good health habits like covering your cough and washing your hands often can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu. Flu shots are available at the Public Health Department, your medical provider’s office, and many other areas in the community.
1. Avoid close contact.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
2. Stay home when you are sick.
If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
3. Cover your mouth and nose.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
4. Clean your hands.
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
6. Practice other good health habits.
Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.
Spring newsletter

The District Office will be sending out a district-wide newsletter to our community.  It includes stories about how we deliver on our mission, vision and commitments. In addition, it includes middle school construction updates.  In case you do not receive it in your mailbox at your residence, you can also check it out online at the district website: http://www.sheboyganfalls.k12.wi.us/district/district-press-releases.cfm

Calendar
March
March 2 –  Wrestling- Mishicot, S.F @ Two Rivers
March 7 –  Wrestling- Mishicot, Plymouth, S.F @ Two Rivers
March 9 – MS Play -7pm – MS Aud.
                  MS Play Performance for 5/6 – 1:00pm – MS Aud.
                  Wrestling- Manitowoc, New Holstein, Valders @ S.F
 March 10 –  MS Play and Art Show-7pm MS Aud.
                  MS Play Performance for 7/8 – 1pm – MS Aud.
March 11 –  MS Play and Art Show -1pm – MS Aud.
                   MS Play and Art Show 7pm- MS Aud.
March 13 –  Wrestling- Brillion, New Holstein, S.F @ Kiel
March 14 –  Parent/ Teacher Conferences 4pm- 7pm
March 16 – 6th Grade School Concert for grades 5 & 6
                Wrestling- Conference Tournament @ Manitowoc
March 17 –  NO SCHOOL for Students or Staff
March 20 –  6th Grade Choral Concert- 7pm-MS Aud.
          6th Grade Band Concert 7:30pm MS Aud.
March 25 – MS Solo and Ensembles Festival
March 27 –  8th Grade Band New Horizons Concert
April
April 3 – FBLA State Conference
              5th Grade Field Trip to Biz Town
April 4 –  FBLA State Conference

School District of Sheboygan Falls
Sheboygan Falls Middle School 
101 School Street, Sheboygan Falls, WI  53085  |  Phone: 920-467-7880

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SFMS Messenger – February 2017

Monday, February 6th, 2017
February 2017

The Nation’s Report Card
On February 14, 2017, a randomly selected group of grade eight students from Sheboygan Falls Middle School will participate in the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP). NAEP, administered by the National Center for Education Statistics of the U.S. Department of Education, assesses what students know and can do. The NAEP is different from our state assessment, because it provides a common measure of student achievement across the country. The results are released as The Nation’s Report Card, which provides information about student achievement to educators, parents, policymakers, and the public.
For more information, connect to the  What Every Parent Should Know video
Feel free to contact  Mrs. Fiorini or Ms. Markofski if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Meloney Markofski, Principal 
Sheboygan Falls Middle School
Saying “Yes” to an Education

Alex Hiles, a business student at the University of Wisconsin- Whitewater, visited our Read 180 sixth grade class to give us a personal thank you for money that was donated to the Linaca Project. This project, through the  UW-W Enactus Club, supports Linaca, Honduras in the effort to fund sustainable agricultural methods using hydroponics.  Alex explained to the students that the money they raised by selling their crafts at the craft fair last month will be used to help purchase the hydroponic system, purchase a business computer, and fund business start up costs. He also shared that our efforts have inspired the university to share our idea with schools around the Whitewater area in order to generate more support for the Linaca Project.
Learning beyond the book
Grade 5 update
Fifth grade students are working like ‘Mad Scientists!’  They are developing an understanding of the Scientific Method and Engineering Method  through the concept of gravity. Students are working with balance scales, spring scales, and timers to understand how gravity ‘pulls’ objects to the Earth.  After some research, they are in the middle of developing parachute designs. Their designs must meet the ‘Fair Test’ to land on a target from 2 meters up. They will discover how air resistance, gravity, and design play a role in engineering the right parachute.
Across the hall in Mrs. Meyer’s classroom, students are discovering the beginnings of the 13 Original Colonies. They are also working in Literature Circles to deepen their understanding of story elements, inferring skills, and predictions.
Mrs. Scharrer is helping students to understand the complexities of multi-digit numbers and multiplication.  With all this hard work though, students got the chance to take a break to go bowling for an afternoon of fun!

Grade 6 update
In 6th grade science, we finished our magnetism unit with a choice assessment.  Students could make a board game, book, test, slideshow, or essay to show their knowledge of the unit.

Grade 7 update
Think Spring!  Think Business Expo!  All seventh graders are invited to participate in our annual Business Expo, where they create and sell products to students in grades 5 and 6. Our seventh grade entrepreneurs will gain experience and wisdom about what it takes to start and maintain a business from Junior Achievement volunteers starting in February. Students are encouraged to work with a partner (but sometimes three’s a crowd).  The final presentation will be held on Friday, March 31, 2017 from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. in the SFMS gym. Parents and close family are encouraged to stop and shop. Some parent volunteers are needed as well. Please contact Mrs. Wodach if interested.

Grade 8 update
Brian Ewenson, from Spaceport Sheboygan, presented to Ms. Huenink’s science classes about the space program. During the presentation, time was spent discussing what it would be like to be an astronaut and to travel into space. Mr. Ewenson shared some of the unique daily occurrences  that astronauts  experience while in space. Most students decided that having to wear adult diapers or using a space toilet, throwing up, dealing with “puffy face and chicken leg” syndrome, and basically riding a bomb into space just wasn’t something they were interested in doing.
Growth Mindset

SFMS staff and students continue to explore what it means to have a growth mindset, as well as what a growth mindset looks and sounds like in the learning environment. For more details on how parents can help develop a growth mindset in their children, please take a moment to watch this short video.
Upcoming Events

SAVE THE DATE
The elementary and middle school June session of summer school will run from  June 12 – June 30. Sessions run from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Registration materials will be available in Infinite Campus early – mid March. A summer school bus will provide pickup and drop-off at three designated locations again this summer.

NATIONAL SCHOOL COUNSELOR WEEK 2017 – STRESS LESS!
The School District of Sheboygan Falls will once again be celebrating National School Counselor Week during the week of Feb. 6-10. There will be daily announcements that include stress less tips for staff and students. Everyone will be encouraged to participate in different Stress Less activities throughout the week. Stress is something that we all experience and it is important that we remember to take care of ourselves and our mental health. Here are some things that you can do to stress less:
  1. Focus on what you can control
  2. Go for a walk
  3. Color
  4. Talk about it
  5. Breath
  6. Look for opportunities in life’s challenges
  7. Dance it out
  8. Treat yourself
  9. Reminisce about good times
  10. Ask for a hug
  11. Go to bed earlier
  12. Smile
Take some time for yourselves! Thank you for your support! ~ Sheboygan Falls Middle School Counseling Department

OPEN ENROLLMENT NOTICE
Please click here for important information regarding the Sheboygan Falls School District Open Enrollment.

TRAUMA-INFORMED PARENTING WORKSHOP
Many children served by the child welfare system have lived through traumatic experiences.  Understanding how trauma affects children can help parents make sense of their child’s behaviors, feelings and attitudes. Information regarding this workshop can be found below.
Middle School Building Construction Update

We are making good progress on the design phase for the new middle school. 
Middle School staff members have met with the architects to provide their input into the plans. Several school staff members have visited other school districts to view  new schools and gather input from those school leaders. We meet weekly with the architects to keep plans moving ahead.
The Board of Education is meeting February 6 to review the plans and provide more input. In March, based on the plans for the school, we will be selecting furnishings and equipment.
Our current timeline is:
Now-April: Architectural design
May/June-August 2018: Groundbreaking and construction
August 2018: Open new Middle School
Community Conversation
On January 23, the School District of Sheboygan Falls hosted an open Community Conversation for residents interested in learning more about how the School District will make its future decisions about the existing middle school.

Here is the  press release that you may have seen in The Falls News.
If you have any questions about the progress on the Middle School, questions about the existing middle school, or any other questions about our School District, please contact Superintendent Jean Born or any Board of Education member.  They welcome the opportunity to answer your questions.
Please stay tuned for plans about our groundbreaking, when the time comes!

Calendar
FEBRUARY
February 2 – 7th Grade Girls Basketball vs. Two Rivers @ SFMS ; 8th Grade Girls Basketball @ Two Rivers
February 7 –  7th Grade Girls Basketball vs. New Holstein @ SFES ; 8th Grade Girls Basketball vs. New Holstein @ SFMS
February 9 – 7th & 8th Grade Girls Basketball- Bye
February 13 –  7th Grade Girls Basketball @ Manitowoc Washington; 8th Grade Girls Basketball @ Home
February 14 –  7th & 8th Grade Girls Basketball @ Plymouth
February 16 – 7th Grade Girls Basketball vs. Manitowoc Washington @ SFMS; 8th Grade Girls Basketball @ Manitowoc Washington
February 17 –  NO SCHOOL for Students/Professional Development for Staff
February 21 –  Wrestling- Chilton, Reedsville, SFMS @ Two Rivers
February 28 – Wrestling- Chilton, Plymouth, Valders @ SFMS
MARCH
March 2 – Wrestling- Mishicot, SFMS @ Two Rivers
March 7 –  Wrestling- Mishicot, Plymouth, SFMS @ Two Rivers

School District of Sheboygan Falls
Sheboygan Falls Middle School 
101 School Street, Sheboygan Falls, WI  53085  |  Phone: 920-467-7880

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