Parents,
What a first week! It’s amazing how much has happened in 4 days. We dealt with some pretty steamy weather, but overall it was an incredible week. We welcomed almost 30 new students to the grade, and after an action packed orientation day, we settled into regular class schedules on Tuesday. We have had a handful of other class meetings to discuss norms and expectations as well over the course of the week. I am so energized by this group – they are very sweet, have lots of energy and generally put a smile on my face. I am pumped for the year ahead serving as their Dean! That all said, transitions can be hard so please feel free to reach out to me, your child’s advisor, or Mrs. Levitan if you have any concerns or want to share about your child’s experience. A couple of reminders looking ahead:
1. Drop off and Pick Up: So far so good, but as I mentioned earlier there will always be delays at the start of the year. Buses are figuring out systems, and there have been some delays. Look forward to things being better next week, and pretty smooth, regular and on time the following week.
2. Sports and Activities: Sports will begin on Monday, September 18th. A sign up form was sent out today to students, and we will talk more about signing up for sports on Monday.
4. Metro Cards: if you ordered your child a NYC Metro card, we have them. Students should go to Umpleby Hall to see Ms. Simon (Transportation Director) and pick up their cards.
5. The Homework Planner: Students received their D-E paper planner this week! They will be encouraged to use it in every class that assigns homework as well as for planning ahead to finish projects and long-term assignments. You may want to help your child fill in the page about after school commitments to help them with their time management.
6. Email: Students should check email nightly –– A preseason sign up for sports was sent to them recently, and teachers also communicate important, timely details via email.
7. Attendance: Mrs. Jones is our attendance coordinator for middle school. You can reach her at MSattendance@d-e.org or 201-227-3301. Please let her know if your child will be dropped off late, picked up early or unexpectedly absent. If you are planning an absence in advance, please let me know and I can help your child fill out a planned absence form and organize their school work.
8. Picture Day: Picture day is September 18th. All students are photographed for the yearbook and ID cards. If you would like copies of your child’s ID photo “head shot”, send in a check and this form with your child on Picture Day.
Key September/October Dates
September 12th @ 7pm: New Parent Orientation (more information and invitation to follow – this is for NEW families only)
September 18th: Picture Day
September 21st @ 6pm: Back To School Night
September 25th: Yom Kippur (No School)
September 28th-29th: Camp Speers overnight trip
October 19th: Indigenous Peoples Day (No School)
That’s it for now. Have a terrific weekend. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.
P.S. Here is a class photo of all of the kids on day above.
