Krueger's Monthly Newsletter!

Hello Parents and Guardians,

We are off to an amazing beginning to the school year! Our students and staff are fully engaged and ready to learn and take our school to the Next Level! I appreciate all of the parent communication as needs arise.

This is my first monthly newsletter of the school year. I will be sending one out at the beginning of each month. The newsletters will provide updates from each of teams, teachers and various support staff.

Our attendance goal for the school year is 94% or higher. We are currently at 93% school wide attendance. Let's please make sure we are getting our students to school on time and here consistently. I will continue to provide updates monthly on our attendance progress.

Please continue to support our students for a successful academic year. We want to ensure each of our students grow academically, socially and emotionally. We are providing interventions early and often so our students can receive the support needed to be successful.

Thank you,

Josh Malone

Principal

Krueger Middle School

• Early release day (11am) - September 24th
• Student led conferences - September 24th
• More information coming out soon!!!!

Parent Volunteers are needed!!!! You must be approved to be a volunteer to help out. Contact Teresa Whitney at twhitney01@mcas.k12.in.us if you are interested in helping with the event.

ELA: Students have begun reading A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park. While reading the first few chapters, students have written chapter summaries, discussed points of view, determined the meaning of unfamiliar vocabulary, and analyzed how setting shapes characters and plot. Students can look forward to analyzing the development of themes and creating an eBook.

ELA Lab: During the first two weeks of school students took the IXL Flex Benchmark Diagnostic in both math and ELA. This diagnostic pinpoints a student’s grade-level proficiency and creates a personalized action plan to help them grow in both subject areas. This week we began the task of tackling the essential standards that will appear on the ILearn Checkpoints. We read an informational text and worked on citing evidence using the RACE writing strategy. Next we will transfer these skills to literary texts. We also began our Greek and Latin Root/Affix study. Every week we will focus on either a root or affix and determine its meaning.

Novels 7- During the first two weeks of school students took the IXL Flex Benchmark Diagnostic in both math and ELA. This diagnostic pinpoints a student’s grade-level proficiency and creates a personalized action plan to help them grow in both subject areas. This week we explored three different time periods in history in order to better understand the three main characters of our first novel, Refugee. Students will have a chance to share their thoughts about the novel, answer interpretive questions, and complete a character project in the coming weeks.

Science: Students have finished learning about lab safety and procedures and equipment. They have learned how to keep a lab notebook and are graded on it weekly.

We are now beginning our unit on cell structures and functions. We will be moving forward into more information about different types of cells and hopefully embark on our first lab experience next week. Parents and students do need to sign the lab safety contract before they are able to participate in a lab. It will go home with students on 9/5/25.

Social Studies: Our upcoming unit will focus on East Asia. Students will explore the countries of East Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea. This unit will encourage critical thinking through discussions on geography, politics, economy, and cultural practices, providing students with a broader understanding of the world.

Math: Students are finishing up their work with rational number operations and moving to some work with prime factorization and exponents. We will then be moving into proportional reasoning and slope. They need to keep up with their IXL and ILC work for their practice.

Resource: In 7th grade Resource, the students are working on literary text which includes analyzing explicit and inferred meaning and citing evidence to support findings, analyzing theme development and summarizing, analyzing structural elements of a story and how they influence the characters, and/or the plot, and they are improving communication skills by engaging in collaborative discussions with regard to the book being read in class. Students are also working on determining unfamiliar vocabulary through such things as context clues. With regard to writing, students are working on summarizing and writing narratives, creating topic sentences, using transition words and phrases in their writing, and following the writing process. The students are also being introduced to math concepts that will be taught in the general education math class such as prime factorization and proportions. Currently they have been working with integers and solving problems with fractions (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division). Students in resource will continue to build on and strengthen their 7th grade level skills.

Eighth grade

Math: We just finished up a unit on Exponents and will be moving toward solving equations. Students have adjusted to using a new program called IXL and they are doing wonderful with it.

Algebra is moving from writing and solving multi-step equations to graphing equations using slope intercept form.

Social Studies:

We have just wrapped up learning about Native American groups from the Northeastern part of what will become the United States. The students did a great job on their poster projects describing different tribes using the acronym GRAPES (Geography, Religion, Achievements or Architecture, Politics, Economy, and Society). Be sure to check out their work during Student Led Conferences.

We are now beginning our unit on the 13 Colonies.

Seventh Grade:

Math: The 7th grade students are doing an amazing job with rational numbers and moving into Prime or Composite and basic exponents. We are getting used to the new routine of changing classes and being responsible for bringing materials to class. We are using a new program that some of the 7th graders used in 6th grade but others are getting used to, they are all doing an excellent job with completing work and participating in class.

English: ELA 7 is reading the book A Long Walk to Water based on the true story of Salva Dut who survived the Second Sudanese Civil War after becoming one of the “Lost Boys of Sudan.” Students discuss the lack of clean water for some people around the world. Students are working on identifying the gist (what it’s mostly about) for the chapter, identifying how the setting of the story shapes the characters and the plot, and identifying developing THEMES over the course of the novel. We are re-introducing a skill students used last year - writing an effective summary. There is ongoing work with strategies to identify the meaning of unfamiliar vocabulary, and this will continue throughout the year. I encourage students to read independently at least 20 minutes a day at home.

English - Advanced Literacy 8: The topic for the first module is Latin American Folklore and the students are reading the anchor text Summer of the Mariposas. They will be working on developing their vocabulary skills throughout the year and strategies to identify the meaning of unfamiliar words (context clues, root/suffix/affix). Students will be able to identify the gist of the chapters (what it’s mostly about) as well as continue to grow in the ability to identify supporting details and use evidence from the text correctly to support their understanding. We will also be discussing Point of View and how it helps understand the characters and the plot in the story. The anchor text will be supplemented with informational text on the topic.

English 9 Honors (Pre-AP English 1): Students have been working on analyzing details in pictures and in text and how to conduct brief, on the spot research. They will analyze telling details that will enhance their own writing. We are concentrating on different sentence types as we analyze short stories and learn how to use this skill in our own writing. The short stories are enhanced with activities from Quill.com, vocabulary.com and Khan Academy. The group just finished their first Assess and Reflect at the end of Learning Cycle 1.

ELA Lab: All students have finished their ELA and math diagnostics for IXL. 7th graders are working on characterization and setting through writing and creating their own characters. 8th graders are working on figurative language writing examples and definitions.

Science:

All of our scientists are starting the year with a review of the scientific method and tools. We recently completed a project on types of scientists, where students were asked to research one type of scientist that interested them. This week we’ve been getting more practice using things like graduated cylinders and rulers. We’re also learning to use a timer in a lab investigating how heart rate is impacted by exercise.

Next week 7th graders will start learning about cells and 8th graders will begin their first unit on matter. We are off to a good start!

Social Studies:

We are currently working on the physical geography of the Earth. The students recently completed their community map projects, illustrating the human and physical characteristics of the area in which they live. Students created local or regional maps displaying notable features in the area. Be sure to check out some of the examples on the walls during student led conferences. Shortly we will begin our unit on Human Geography.

Resource: In 7th grade Resource, the students are working on literary text which includes analyzing explicit and inferred meaning and citing evidence to support findings, analyzing theme development and summarizing, analyzing structural elements of a story and how they influence the characters, and/or the plot, and they are improving communication skills by engaging in collaborative discussions with regard to the book being read in class. Students are also working on determining unfamiliar vocabulary through such things as context clues. With regard to writing, students are working on summarizing and writing narratives, creating topic sentences, using transition words and phrases in their writing, and following the writing process. The students are also being introduced to math concepts that will be taught in the general education math class such as prime factorization and proportions. Currently they have been working with integers and solving problems with fractions (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division). Students in resource will continue to build on and strengthen their 7th grade level skills.

Wellness: Wellness classes have been completing the FitnessGram Fitness test. The students were evaluated on the following fitness exercises: Mile Run, Pacer Test, Sit and Reach, Hand Grip Strength, Plank, Flex Arm Hang, and the Trunk Lift. Parents will be able to review their child's Fitnessgram report at the Student-Led Conferences. Also, the Dunebrook guest speaker visited classes to present Teen Safety Matters information.

IMPORTANT: Students MUST dress for the PE portion of Wellness. Students are able to purchase a gym uniform for $15.00 OR can wear their own t-shirt and athletic shorts to PE. They also need correct footwear.

Gateway- Jones:

7th and 8th grade Gateway students have been learning about acceptable technology use and digital safety. Our students should be able to discuss the consequences of technology misuse. Next they will study computer systems including hardware and software.

CFDA:

Computing Foundations students have been studying computing systems including input, output, storage, and processing devices. Next they will study data, IoT devices, and ethical use of computers.

Gateway - Madden:

7th and 8th grade Gateway students have been learning how computers use the binary system to represent information. Students are beginning to see how ones and zeros form the foundation of all computer operations. Next, they will apply this knowledge as we explore computer hardware and software.

Environmental Science:

7th Grade

Students have been experimenting with adding energy and taking away energy from molecules of water. How does that happen? Well, since heat is a form of energy the experiments involve adding ice to decrease energy and reduce temperature. While experimenting students used digital models to visualize what the molecules would be doing at the molecular level if they could be seen. Eventually students developed ideas of what happens to substances when heat is added or subtracted.

8th Grade

After a brief introduction about ecosystems, study of the Great Lakes and Water Quality has been the focus. Students worked on maps to help locate our five Great Lakes as well as realize what a “water rich” area we live in. The Water Cycle was reviewed/introduced in an effort to help students understand the need to care for our water systems. Currently the topic of macroinvertebrates is helping us understand how certain creatures can live in polluted water and others can only live in healthy sources.These macros become indicators of the healthiness of the water system.

Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

jgrabowski@mcas.k12.in.us

Preparing for College and Careers:

Students are getting in touch with some of their preferences as we think about life after high school. Please make sure your child has a simple wired pair of headphones.

Band:

• Polo money is due Monday, September 8th. Please send $15 in an envelope with your students name and size.

• Our Fall Concert is October 29th at 6:00pm in the Krueger cafeteria. This is required for all band students; please let me know ASAP if there is a conflict.

• 8th Grade Only: All Region Honor Band applications close September 12th. To apply, click this link and enter the school code: 79s7vb

Digital Art:

Students will explore digital creativity by using Google Drawings to design original artwork. This program allows them to experiment with shapes, lines, colors, and layering to build compositions, while gaining experience with digital tools that support artistic expression and develop graphic design skills.

Chorus:

CHORUS HAPPENINGS

Thank you so much for permitting your Krueger student to be a part of our chorus family. We are enjoying ourselves thus far and have great plans this year...

1) We are starting an Advanced Chorus at Krueger. The rehearsals will be after school on Tuesdays. The students must fill out the blue Advanced Chorus application COMPLETELY and return it by FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12. There is a parent/guardian signature required. The students with the highest application scores will be invited to the chorus auditions later in the month

2) We will be selling the blue chorus shirts starting the week of September 15. They are $11 each. We will wear them to most performances.

3) Please be on the lookout for details about an opportunity to ride the train into Chicago to see the Chicago Symphony Orchestra on Thursday, November 13.

4) The Krueger 7th/8th Chorus will sing for the Haunted Halls event at Krueger on Thursday, October 23rd. This will be extra credit and it will be fun!

5) Save the Date for the One City One Sound concert at MCHS on Thursday, December 11, 2025. This is a required concert!

Any questions about athletics please reach out to the following individuals:

School Athletic Director: Brandon Williams - bwilliams@mcas.k12.in.us

Middle School City Wide Athletic Director - James Sroge - j.sroge@mcas.k12.in.us

You must get a sports physical completed by a doctor BEFORE team tryouts! The physical is good for all sports for the entire school year. See this link for more information.

https://www.educatemc.net/athletics/future-wolves/future-wolves-middle-school/future-wolves-sports-physicals-information

Information about the Fall Thinking Cap Quiz Bowl is coming soon. We’re looking for interested and excited students to join us! Contact Ms. Bair or Mrs. Jones for more details.

Academic Team Coaches:

Mrs. Jenny Jones - jjones@mcas.k12.in.us

Ms. Kathy Bair - kbair@mcas.k12.in.us

- Please reach out to them if you have any questions or interest for your child!

Hello!

Welcome back to a new school year! I am excited to support your 7th and 8th graders as their school counselor. This September, I will be visiting classrooms to lead important lessons on bullying prevention, suicide awareness and prevention, and College-Go-Week activities. These lessons are designed to foster a safe, supportive environment and inspire our students to think about their futures. I look forward to partnering with you to ensure a positive and successful year for your child. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

Karen R. Hartman, MS Ed

School Counselor

khartman@mcas.k12.in.us

As we have had questions before, please read and review our district approved dress code. We consistently enforce this to ensure a safe and secure learning environment for our students and staff.

Michigan City Area Schools Dress Code

Students must dress appropriately for school. The following dress code rules will apply:

1. Clothing signifying gang-related activities, slogans, colors, etc. is prohibited.

2. T-shirts, other attire, or jewelry that advertise or promote alcoholic beverages, drugs, cigarettes, vaping, profanity, or the disregard for others are unacceptable.

3. Hats, bandanas, and other headgear are not to be worn in the building. This includes extracurricular activities.

4. Mesh tops, see-through tops, spaghetti tops, or tank tops with enlarged sleeve openings are prohibited.

5. Hoodies are acceptable but must be worn with hoods down.

6. Skirts and shorts shall be no less than mid-thigh length.

7. Jackets, coats, gloves, or other forms of outerwear are not to be worn in the classroom.

8. Shoes must be worn at all times. No open toes, flip flops, slides, heels above 2”, slippers.

9. Beachwear and pajamas are prohibited.

10. All pants must be worn at the waistline.

11. Leggings are not acceptable as pants unless worn with a long shirt or dress.

12. Straps that are unbuckled and belts that are unfastened or anything dangling from the waist or pockets such as chains, ropes, rags, etc are prohibited.

13. Tops and pants that reveal the midriff or undergarments are prohibited.

14. Any clothing or appearance that is disruptive to the educational process is prohibited.

Violations of the dress code will result in disciplinary action as outlined in the Code of Responsible Behavior.

Approved by the Michigan City Area Schools Board of Trustees July 25, 2023

As a school and a district school safety is our number 1 priority! At Krueger Middle School we continuously review and practice our various drills to ensure a safe learning environment. Pictured here is the language we communicate with for our safety drills.

Please read the following information on how attendance impacts learning!

Attendance Information for Parents

Did you Know?

• Students should miss no more than 9-10 days per year to help them stay on track for graduation

• Research shows that missing just 2 days per month negatively impacts academic performance

• Excused and unexcused absences have the same negative effect on student academic performance

• Poor attendance in Kindergarten and First can influence whether a student can read proficiently by 3rd grade making them 4 times more likely to drop out of high school

• By 6th grade, chronic absenteeism becomes a leading indicator that a student will drop out of high school

• By 9th grade, attendance is a better predictor of graduation rates than 8th grade test scores

• 
  

Additionally, Students who are chronically absent (missing more than 10 days per school year) are at increased risk to:

• Have lower standardized test scores

• Achieve lower GPA’s

• Have lower levels of academic achievement

• Have greater school discipline histories

• Dropout of high school

• Experience low earnings as an adult

• Have a higher unemployment rate

• Have less stable career patterns

• A student who is chronically absent between grades 8 and 12 is more than 7 times more likely to dropout

• 
  

What Can you do?

• Help your children maintain daily routines such as finishing homework and getting a good night's sleep

• Try no to schedule dental and medical appointments during the school day

• If you children must stay home due to illness, make sure they have asked teachers for resources and materials to make up for the missed learning time in the classroom

• Work with the school if your child is missing class time due to behavior to develop a plan

• Monitor your child's academic progress and seek help from teachers or tutors when necessary

• Make sure teachers know how to contact you

• Communicate with the school and know the schools attendance policy

Make sure your child arrives on time each day

How are we at Krueger Middle School supporting and aligning our building to our district strategic plan?!

Please take a look below!!!!

Pillar 1: Culture and Environment

- Botvin in CREW

- Trauma PD

- BAG Reports

- Student incentives for grades and behavior (Field Trips, Free time, & prizes)

- Halloween events

- Movie night

- Winter Dance

- Bingo night (2023)

- Student of the Month celebrations

- Habit of Character celebrations

- Academic Awards Ceremony

- Facebook posts highlighting positive news and events in our school

- Student-led conferences

- Paw Buck Store

- Music Performances

- Multiple schedules to accommodate the needs of the day

-8th Grade students visit MCHS and AK SMith

- End of year Celebrations - Cook outs and 8th Grade Breakfast event

- Back to School night at beginning of the year

Pillar 2: Student Voice and Opportunities

- Better World Day

- Student Council

- National Junior Honor Society

- Journalism Club

- Academic Team

- Environmental Field Days

- Student-led conferences

- Music Performances

- Student run daily announcements

- Various sports teams

- Visit to Ivy Tech Campus in Valparaiso for 8th graders

- Safe Harbor After School Program

Pillar 3: Meeting the Needs of Diverse Learners

- Assessments administered and scored for review of Modules

- Creation of Common Formative Assessments

- Frequent data meetings

- Gathering student opinions and input on Wolfpack and CREW

- ELL Support

- High Dosage Tutor

- ELA Wilson

- Touch Math

- Hands on learning activities

- Collaborative learning experiences

- Learning Lab

Pillar 4: Clear and Consistent Communication

- Staff Weekly newsletter

- Daily Announcements at start of day

- Communication with parents about events

- Team leaders communicating with parents and holding team meetings

- Staff feedback

- Facebook posts to communicate with families and community

-PLC and staff meetings

Pillar 5: Educating the Whole Child

- CREW

- Band and chorus recruitment

- Better World Day

- Environmental Field Days

-Naviance Career Assessment

- Ramsey Financial Education

- TRIO Talent Search Program Via Purdue University Northwest - Westville

- Sensory Room

- N.E.W. Opportunities Workshop

Mission

Krueger is a safe school built on supportive relationships with students, staff, and families. We value academic growth and achievement while developing the MCAS Habits of Character in a collaborative educational learning community.

Vision:

Strengthening

Unity,

Cultivating

Community, and

Encouraging

Shared

Success