October 2014

Transition can be difficult for our students and parents alike.  Middle School is a time for students to develop their budding independence and with that comes many challenges.  Striking a balance between fostering independence and setting appropriate boundaries for our students can be tricky.  The following article from the Huffington Post provides insight regarding the different ways parents and teachers can assist students in developing their independence and what barriers may be present. 

**Special thanks to Jan Gauthier for bringing this article to our attention!

Are We Raising a Generation of Helpless Kids?

Some Helpful Information:

• Aspen – Please make sure you check our Aspen portal regularly.  Teachers will be updating their students’ grades on the 1^st and 15^th of every month.  If you need your login information, please contact the main office.
• Parents and teachers – keep in close contact with each other whenever any concerns arise!  Email is usually the best way to get in touch with your child’s teachers.
• Check the Miles River Middle School Homepage often for the latest news and information.

Calendar of Upcoming Events:

• Thursday, October 2^nd: Essex Technical High School presentation to 8^th grade students during the school day
• Monday, October 13^th:  Columbus Day – NO SCHOOL
• Wednesday, October 22^nd:  National Unity Day (Unite against Bullying)
• Students and faculty members district wide will be encouraged to wear the color orange to show their support for Unity Day
• Friday, October 31^st: HAPPY HALLOWEEN…and the end of Quarter 1!