The LoopEEJMS Monthly Parent Newsletter (October)

Closing the LoopGreetings,Things are FALLing into place here at EEJMS as we move into the midway point of the �rstquarter. As a building we have been focused on routines, structures and procedures forlearning. As is necessary for this age group, we've noticed that students are in need ofmotivation to reinforce positive behaviors. To that end, we intend to bring back the PBISprogram. PBIS stands for Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports and is a program manyschools utilize to identify, teach and reward positive behaviors. Our PBIS team will receivetraining towards the end of the month and will create the framework for school wideimplementation. I will provide updates on our program as they are available.As always feel free to contact me any time. Click here to be added to my email list.Stay in the Loop!- Mrs. Thomas

A Plan for SuccessNow that your child has settled into the school year, it is a great time to set a plan for successfor the school year. What patterns and behaviors have you noticed in your child? Is he/shedifferent from last year? What new habits have they picked up? What old habits have theyshed? Middle school is a time of great transition and growth. They begin to shed theirelementary identities for new more "grown-up" peer-centered identities. It is at this time whereour students need the most guidance and support. Structure will be key in ensuring that theynavigate this time in their lives appropriately and emerge ready for the rigor of high school.Does your child have a set routine when they get home? Are they required to work before theyplay? How about reading for 20 minutes a day?

MAP-R Testing Complete!All students have recently completed MAP-R testing which is a reading assessment thatmeasures a students' skill level in different reading achievement areas. Students in PGCPStake the test three times a year (Fall, Winter, Spring) in order to provide data regarding studentprogress. The Fall test provides each student with their current level as well as a projectedgrowth target for the Spring test. Your child should be receiving their speci�c results soon. Our

school has a goal that 70% of our students will meet their projected growth target by theSpring administration.

PSAT PreparationThe PSAT 8/9 is the �rst in the series of college board assessments that measure a studentscollege and career readiness. The assessment spans the areas of reading, writing and math.Students within our district will take the exam during the �rst week of December. Although theassessment is given in the 8th grade, it is moreso a measure of prior learning as much of thecontent aligns to 6th and 7th grade standards. Our goal for this year is for 25% of 8th gradestudents to meet both benchmarks in evidence-based reading/writing and math. Although 8thgrade teachers will target student learning in the classroom there are ways to supportpreparation and learning at home. The link below provides access to a diagnostic test andpractice items that can be done at home; it can also be found on our school website.It is a great resource for all grade levels! PSAT RESOURCE CLICK HERE

PTSA MeetingWHENWednesday, Oct. 17th, 6pmWHERE1300 Campus Way NorthMitchellville, MDMORE INFORMATIONCome out to meet the new board and to discuss new goals forthe school year!

Meal BenefitsLast year's meal bene�ts are scheduled to roll over on October 15th. A new application isrequired every school year. To submit an online application visit www.applyforlunch.com If your child plans to purchase breakfast ($1.60) or lunch ($3.00) please ensure that they havemoney on their lunch accounts. To learn more about adding money to lunch accounts visit:www.myschoolbucks.com

MSDE SurveyBetween October 8th and November 9th students will take an MSDE sponsored climatesurvey. Please click here for more information.

Important DatesOctober 12th - Progress reports releasedOctober 17th - PTSA meeting 6pmOctober 18th - Earthquake drillNovember 2nd - End of 1st quarter