Shepherd Middle BlueJay Bulletin

BlueJay families,

First, a reminder that Monday, February 9, is a scheduled day off of school.

This past week, students took advantage of the winter weather during recess, enjoying time outside playing hockey and sledding in the spirit of the Winter Olympics. It was fun to see students making the most of the season.

Below, you will see an impromptu Spirit Week organized by Student Council for this week. We appreciate their leadership and creativity in helping build school spirit and community.

This week, our focus is on putting kindness into action by turning kind thoughts into kind words and helpful choices. Students are learning how everyday acts of kindness can make a positive impact on others and their school environment. Regular attendance plays an important role in these lessons, as being present each day allows students to fully participate in classroom learning and community building.

How you can help at home:
Consider praising your child when you notice them acting kindly, or work together on a small kindness project in your neighborhood.

February

• 9 - No School

March

• 6 - Half day/ End of 2nd Trimester
• 9 - Beginning of 3rd Trimester

Building on our theme of self-esteem from last week, it’s easy to see why this topic matters so much—higher self-esteem is linked to greater resilience, creativity, motivation, and even better physical and mental health. Children who feel confident in themselves also tend to build stronger relationships and experience greater success both in school and beyond.

You can help your child develop higher self-esteem through activities that promote competence, value, and independence. One simple but powerful way to do this is through household responsibilities. Giving your child ownership over at least one chore can help them feel like an important, contributing member of the family.

Chores also build problem-solving skills and independence. When children complete tasks on their own—and work through challenges along the way—they gain confidence in their abilities and pride in their work.

Here are a few examples of age-appropriate chores for middle schoolers:

• Take out the trash

• Fold and put away their own laundry

• Help prepare or cook family meals

• Do the dishes

• Clean the bathroom

• Mow the lawn

Of course, every family is different, so feel free to adjust these chores to fit your child’s maturity, schedule, and comfort level. What matters most is giving them opportunities to contribute, learn, and feel capable. Small acts of responsibility today can lead to lasting confidence tomorrow.

If you’d like to learn more about how everyday responsibilities can help children develop confidence and self-esteem, check out these helpful resources for parents:

• The Benefits of Chores – The Center for Parenting Education
  Explores how giving children age-appropriate responsibilities helps build self-esteem, independence, and a sense of belonging.

• The Benefits of Chores for Kids – Bright Horizons
  Highlights how contributing to the household helps children feel capable, valued, and connected to family life.

• Building Self-Esteem in Kids and Teens: Practical Tips for Parents – Behavioral Healthcare Associates

Shares practical advice on how household tasks and consistent routines foster confidence, resilience, and life skills.

Online gaming captivates millions of teens, but hidden gambling mechanics can encourage impulsive spending and risky behaviors.

How Games Encourage Gambling-Like Behaviors

• Loot Boxes & Gacha Mechanics: Players spend money for a chance at rare items, mirroring real-world gambling.
• In-Game Currencies: Obscures real-world money, making overspending easier.
• Casino-Style Games & Skin Trading: Some games include unregulated gambling elements.
• Timed Events & Leaderboards: Create pressure to spend quickly or pay to maintain status.

Why Teens Are Vulnerable

• Thrill-Seeking & Peer Influence: Teens are more impulsive and influenced by friends or influencers.
• Desensitization: Games normalize gambling behaviors.
• Lack of Awareness: Many teens don’t understand the financial risks.
• Escapism: Risk-taking can be a coping mechanism for stress or anxiety.

The Impact

• Financial Losses: Teens can unknowingly spend large amounts.
• Problematic Behaviors: Gambling-like gaming can lead to addiction.
• Lost Opportunities: Excessive gaming can affect schoolwork and well-being.

What Parents Can Do

• Educate & Set Limits: Talk about gambling risks and set boundaries for spending.
• Lead by Example: Show responsible financial habits.
• Get Involved: Understand your child’s games and potential risks.
• Encourage Open Conversations: Create a safe space for discussing gaming habits.
• Seek Help If Needed: Professional support is available for concerning behaviors.

By staying informed and involved, parents can help their children enjoy gaming safely while avoiding the dangers of gambling mechanics.

https://shepherdschools.onlinesafetyhub.io/staff/resources/the-price-of-play-gambling-risks-in-online-gaming

In theatre and in life, limitations are inevitable. You won’t always have the materials or resources you think you need. What matters most is using creativity and perseverance to make what you have work!

Bravo!

High school and middle school students and staff are invited to submit original Greek or Roman–inspired artwork to be displayed in the atrium during the HS Musical on March 20–21. Artwork can be created using any medium—paint, pencil, wood, metal, fabric, clay, and more! Pieces should reflect the Olympians theme (think lightning bolts, laurel crowns, helmets, shields, togas, etc.). Artwork is due Friday, March 6, and prizes will be awarded for Best in Show. See the flyer for details, and contact Mrs. Byrne if your piece is larger than 3’x3’. Let's fill up the atrium!

Isabella 911 wants to push out their Smart 911 sign-up information for everyone in the community. Smart 911 is a critical alert system that is used in emergencies. This is a free app that is available to anyone who resides in Isabella County!

Now that the village road construction has been completed, some reminders:

DROP OFF SAFETY REMINDER

MS/HS Students → Use the Yellow Pick Up/Drop Off Area

Elementary Students → Use the Blue Drop Off Area

Staff will assist elementary students at drop-off

PLEASE DO NOT DRIVE SOUTH ON 4TH Street to access the Pick Up/Drop Off Lines

If you have questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to your child's building.

PA 57 of 2023 requires districts to provide all students in grades 6–12 with the Michigan Department of Education’s (MDE) Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault Information Guide, the district’s Title IX coordinator contact information, and the district policies on sexual assault and harassment. This information, for Shepherd Public Schools, is linked below.

Email: sps_sms_office@shepherdschools.net

Phone: (989) 828-6605