Mont Pleasant Post
September 10th, 2023

February Newsletter!
Mont Pleasant Middle School Celebrates Black History Month
At Mont Pleasant Middle School, we are proud to join communities nationwide in celebrating Black History Month. This special time allows us to honor the rich heritage, resilience, and countless contributions of African Americans to our society. Throughout February, our students, staff, and community come together to learn, reflect, and celebrate through a variety of engaging activities.
Classrooms are alive with dynamic lessons that explore the stories and achievements of influential Black leaders, artists, scientists, and activists. From the legacy of Harriet Tubman and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to the groundbreaking accomplishments of Maya Angelou and Katherine Johnson, students gain a deeper appreciation for the individuals who have shaped history.
In addition to classroom learning, our school features interactive projects, inspiring guest speakers, and creative displays that highlight Black excellence in all areas of life. These activities provide opportunities for our students to connect with history and see its relevance to their own lives and aspirations.
We also extend the celebration beyond our walls by involving families and the larger community. Together, we aim to foster unity, cultural appreciation, and an understanding of how the past continues to influence the present.
Mont Pleasant Middle School remains committed to ensuring that the history and contributions of African Americans are recognized not only in February but throughout the year. Join us as we celebrate this important month and continue to inspire our students to build a future rooted in diversity, equity, and inclusion.
FROM DEFAZIO'S DESK
Dear Families, Students, and Staff,
As we embrace the month of February, we take this opportunity to celebrate Black History Month, a time dedicated to honoring the rich cultural heritage and significant contributions of African Americans throughout history. This month serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey toward equality and justice, and it is essential for us to recognize and appreciate the diverse voices that have shaped our society.
In celebration of Black History Month, we are excited to announce our upcoming Black History School Event, scheduled for February 27th from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The doors will open at 5:45 PM, and we warmly encourage all families to attend. This event will feature presentations, performances, and activities that highlight the achievements and impact of Black individuals and communities.
Your participation is invaluable as we come together to foster understanding, appreciation, and respect for diversity within our school community. We look forward to an engaging and enriching evening filled with learning and celebration.
Focus for the 2nd Semester
As we approach the third marking period, I want to take a moment to emphasize the critical importance of attendance and punctuality in our school community. Every minute of class time is vital for our students' learning and development, particularly as they build their literacy skills.
Consistent attendance not only enhances academic achievement but also fosters a sense of responsibility and engagement in our students. Being present and on time allows them to participate fully in lessons, collaborate with classmates, and benefit from valuable instructional time.
Additionally, I encourage everyone to promote kindness within our school environment. A culture of kindness supports our students' emotional well-being and creates a positive atmosphere for learning.
Warm regards,
Principal DeFazio
Safety & Security Updates
Weapons Detection System Updates for MPMS
Dear Mont Pleasant Middle School Families,
The safety and well-being of our students, staff, and visitors remain a top priority for the Schenectady City School District. As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance security, the SCSD Board of Education approved the installation of weapon screening systems in our schools. Now that we have successfully implemented weapons screening at Schenectady High School, we are preparing for implementation at our middle schools.
Due to a delay in the arrival of the equipment, our expected middle school launch dates have been pushed back slightly. We anticipate that we will begin a soft launch at Mont Pleasant when students return from winter recess on February 24. Once the equipment arrives, we will install MIS Security’s RONIN Weapons Detection Systems with Linev xray bag scanners. At this time, training will be provided to our school safety staff. This system will be located at the main entrance of the building.
We will confirm when we have a firm date for the weapon screening implementation. We will also provide you with additional information including a video showing the process and guidelines, a list of prohibited items, and guidelines on what items should remain in students’ bags.
We are committed to ensuring this process is as smooth as possible for everyone involved. We will continue to share updates and reminders throughout the process.
If you have any questions, please feel free to submit them through Let’s Talk.
We appreciate your support as we work together to provide a safe school environment for all.
Our Assistant Principals!
Ms. Manners
Ms. Michele Manners Assistant Principal for Curriculum and Instruction at Mt. Pleasant Middle School.
Mr. Jablonski
Mr. Andrew Jablonski 6th Grade Assistant Principal Mont Pleasant Middle School.
Mr. Wilkinson
Mr. Kirk Wilkinson 8th Grade Assistant Principal Mont Pleasant Middle School.
Mr. Seligman
Mr. Scott Seligman is the Assistant Principal of Building Operations and Safety at Mont Pleasant Middle School.
Ms. Licorish
Ms. Roshney Licorish is the 7th Grade Assistant Principal at Mont Pleasant Middle School
Myranda's Memo
A Message from Ms. Myranda📬
Dear Families,
we want to remind everyone of our important safety protocols:
- Identification Badges: All students must wear their identification badges at all times while on campus.
- Late Arrivals and Early Dismissals: If your child will be arriving late or dismissing early, please notify the school staff in advance to ensure a smooth process.
- Visitor Sign-In: All guardians must sign in upon entering the building for safety reasons.
- Lockers, Jackets Book Bags & Electronics: all students will be provided with lockers to store their belongings including electronic devices. As the weather gets coolers students must have their jackets and outdoor attire placed in lockers as well. Please contact the Main Office to connect with your student if needed.
Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we prioritize the safety and well-being of our school community. Let’s make this a great year together!
2024-2025 Bell Schedule
Literacy & Math Skills Support at Home
About Us
Mrs Hart, Math Instructional Coach - Mrs Hart has been in Schenectady City Schools for 17 years as math teacher and now instructional coach. Mrs Hart's role is to support staff members with math instruction.
Mrs Sellepack, School Librarian - Mrs Sellepack has been at Mont Pleasant for 6 years as the school librarian. Mrs Sellepack's role is to maintain & curate the library collection and support students and teachers in learning inquiry skills.
Mrs Tyler, ELA Instructional Coach, NBCT - Mrs Tyler has been in Schenectady City Schools for 17 years as a social studies teacher and instructional coach. Mrs Tyler's role is to support staff members with English Language Arts & Reading instruction.
Assessment Calendar
2024-25 Assessment Calendar
Check this out!
This document below has ways to practice reading, writing and math at home to build literacy and math skills! We have created a list of phone or tablet apps and no technology strategies for you to try at home.
Climate and Culture
TEAM Competitions
Black History Month Informational Slides
Mural Design
Dear Families,
We have an exciting art opportunity that we hope you will plan to participate in. We will be creating a mural for Mont Pleasant's entryway; our goal is to have input and participation from students and families. The creation of the mural will be led by Jade Warwick; we are so excited to be working with Jade! When you read all the impactful ways she has worked in the community we believe you will be equally excited.
Among other things Jade Warwick is a visual designer, muralist, placemake and a host of PBS's A House of Arts. Follow the links below to learn more about her accomplishments.
Emmy Nominated Documentary: Bridging The Divide | Bloomberg Philanthropies Article | Times Union Article | PBS A House for Arts-- Follow Me @TrashkidArt
Parent Liaison
Mont Pleasant Middle School
Anna Robinson
(518) 603-6120
RobinsonA@schenectadyschools.org
Events
PTSO: 2/25/25 6-7 PM
SCEP: 2/25- 3:45-5:15 PM
Schenectady County Connects Get Jobs Application Career Counseling, Resumes, Interview Prep and more Every Wednesday at MPMS make an appointment call Kiarra Shelley 518 837 7893
AVID
Advancement Via Individual Determination
Our AVID students learned about some of the different majors and motivations of the college student's to attend SUNY Albany. They were also introduced to some of the labs and the instruments that were used to conduct research and create projects. Our tour guides were college students enrolled in The College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity. Our students had the opportunity to tour the following facilities.
PBIS
PBIS in January was thrilled to experience the Fun with Energy Show. Students were able to watch, experience and participate in fun Science experiments. The month of February is another packed PBIS month. We will have hot Cocoa sales the week of Feb. 10th - 14th, a Valentine Flower sale on Feb. 14th and another great show. On Feb. 27th Zu-Zu Acrobats will be here to help close out Mont Pleasant's Black History Month Celebration. At the end of this month March Madness Tournament sign ups will also begin. Students can register a basketball team for 150 PBIS points to participate in the tournament. PBIS will focus on attendance and being on time to class for this school wide event.
After School Time
21st Century CCLC
We’re thrilled to continue 2025 with another exciting month in the 21st Century After-School Program! February is all about celebrating progress and fostering creativity as we dive into engaging activities and enriching learning experiences.
This month, our students will explore themes of kindness, perseverance, and collaboration through hands-on projects, community-building exercises, and special events. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, we’re also planning some fun activities focused on spreading postivity and appreciation among peers.
Thank you for your ongoing support as we work together to provide meaningful opportunities for our students to grow and thrive. We are still enrolling students—please see Mrs. Gauthier, Ms. O'Meally, or Mrs. Quinn for enrollment information.
Here’s to a fantastic February in the program!
Thank you to the Ghanaian Drumming Team for your performance! 21st Century students performed for our 6th Graders on Valentine Day!
Register Link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScwgJAiUtUtVGcCDjx_zHavJ4cuOnm0LMnqKEm5dNEa_p3MUQ/viewform
Liberty Partnership Program ( LLP)
The Liberty Partnerships Program (LPP) at SUNY Schenectady is a college and career opportunity program designed for historically underserved students who may be considered "at-risk" for not graduating from High School. Our primary goal is to increase the retention rate and help our students prepare for the rigors of higher education and the competitive demands of the workforce. We work with our students to create long and short term goals to help with their academic, personal/social and college/career goals. Please use the link below to register
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdRaRtXbPTL2kjiEQGAkHSbp-jQmwexHQONVJIwkxnWMSZE2A/viewform
Rise High Program
RISE HIGH is a program for Schenectady area youth where participants learn about STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and other skills to success, in a fun and nurturing environment. Students are exposed to a wide variety of careers in technology. Rise High uses hands-on, experiential learning to promote problem-solving and critical thinking. Students exercise their creativity and are provided with support to help them reach their goals.
OUR MISSION Provide sustained exposure to diverse enrichment learning opportunities in STEM to under-resourced youth in our community via comprehensive approaches that address and overcome barriers to academic, personal, and wellness development.
Art & Garden Club
Art and Garden Club is a fun and creative space where students can explore their love for both nature and art.
From planting flowers and growing vegetables to creating beautiful art projects, we combine
nature and creativity in exciting ways. Join us to discover the beauty of the outdoors and
your own artistic talents!
After School Math Tutoring
After School Math help will begin. Please reach out to Mr. Davis davisma@schenectadyschools.org
7th & 8th Grade Wrestling
Hello Schenectady Students,
Below is an interest form for the 24-25 Schenectady Wrestling Team. This is for Boys and Girls as we have a team for each here at Schenectady.
This is strictly an interest form and doesn't sign you up for the sport but it lets Coach Languish and Coach Colvin know that you are at least interested in potentially trying wrestling. I do encourage kids to consider trying this great sport of wrestling as it will challenge you in many ways and make you a great overall athlete as well as person.
If you have any questions you can email
Coach Languish - languishc@schenectadyschools.org - Boys Varsity Wrestling Coach
Coach Colvin - colvinj@schenectadyschools.org - Girls Varsity Wrestling Coach
Events!
- Events
- 2/27 - Building wide (6-8) Black History Month Celebration
- 2/27- PBIS School Wide Event ZuZu Actrobotics
- 2/27 - MP Community Black History Month Celebration (6-8pm)
- February Recess
- No School February 17th-21st