Sixth Grade Center

I hope that everyone had a restful and enjoyable holiday break.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to me at adinney@qcsd.org.

Adam Dinney

House Principal

From before break:

In this week’s Take 5, I want to highlight several important updates across our district. First, I encourage all members of our QCSD community to participate in our Special Called Board Meeting on December 16 at 7 PM. Staying informed and engaged is essential to understanding the work happening throughout our district, and you are welcome to join us in person or watch live — or anytime afterward — on our YouTube channel.

We are also proud to share that Eric Gozzard, our Future Readiness Coordinator at QCHS, recently led two outstanding webinars to support families as they plan for college and career pathways. If you were unable to attend, both sessions are now available on the QCHS website.

With winter weather already upon us, this edition includes a helpful overview of the ways we communicate delays and closures to ensure our families stay informed. You’ll also find an update on the Pennsylvania STEELS Science Standards, along with suggestions for how you can support learning at home.

Finally, don’t miss our latest Panther Pride feature highlighting QCHS student Aiden Myers and his remarkable musical talent. The article, written by QCHS senior and Communications Field Study student Maggie Wilson, is well worth the read.

Wishing you a wonderful weekend, Panthers!

Take 5 and get up-to-date: https://secure.smore.com/n/uqxsv

Attached is a flyer regarding a virtual mental health parent session scheduled for January 15th. There are 2 sessions - a lunch and learn and an evening, both using the same link.

End of the marking period is January 23. This marks the midway point of the school year. Every Wednesday after school we have Homework Club. There is no late bus available, please make sure that you have a ride set up PROMPTLY at 4pm. Students should sign up in the office if they plan to stay after school to do work.

January 15 and 16:

IXL has provided our teachers with such great data to help support student growth and identify skills to target to support instruction. Our school has averaged 27 mastered skills per student. This is fantastic progress. The next step to support the continued growth is the IXL Benchmark. Students will take this benchmark next Thursday and and Friday, January 15 and 16. To support the work we will have an altered bell schedule.

As a reminder lease be mindful of traffic patterns when dropping off and picking up students. Students may enter the building at the gym entrance, or the main entrance. When dropping students off, please pull as far up in the loop as you possibly can. Traffic has been backing up into the street.

Reporting Student Absences: Information on how to report student absences can be found under "Attendance Information" on our website.

We appreciate your help in reminding students that the bus ride is part of the school day and should be safe and respectful for everyone. Please review these important reminders with your child:

• Put cell phones away while walking up or down the bus steps or crossing the street.
  Distractions can lead to slips, trips, or not noticing cars in motion.
  
  

• Avoid running to the bus.
  Rushing increases the chance of falling or not seeing traffic. It’s safer to walk calmly.
  
  

• Keep ear buds out when entering or exiting the bus.
  Students need to be able to hear the driver’s directions and any car horns nearby.
  
  

• Wait for the driver’s signal before crossing the street after exiting.
  The driver can see traffic that students may not—waiting for their direction helps everyone stay safe.
  
  

• Stay seated while the bus is moving.
  Sudden stops or turns can cause injuries if students are standing or moving around.
  
  

• Use indoor voices—no screaming on the bus.
  Loud noise can distract the driver, making it harder to hear sirens, horns, or students who need help.
  
  

• Do not take photos or videos of other students without their permission.
  Everyone deserves privacy and respect, and recording without consent can create conflict or embarrassment.
  
  

• Please don’t eat on the bus.
  Food can be a choking hazard, and some students have allergies that can be triggered by nearby snacks.
  
  

By following these simple expectations, we can make sure that every student has a safe and comfortable ride to and from school. Thank you for your support!

SHARE YOUR PANTHER PRIDE

We want to hear from YOU! Help us celebrate the people and moments that make our school community shine. Share your story if you've experienced:

Student Success:

• A milestone achievement
• Academic growth or accomplishment
• A personal breakthrough or proud moment

Classroom Moments:

• A fun or creative learning activity
• A project that inspired excitement
• A moment that made you or others smile

Teacher & Staff Highlights:

• A teacher who made a lasting impact
• A staff member who went above and beyond
• A story that shows the heart of our school community

Inspiring Achievements:

• Awards, recognition, or competitions
• Athletic, artistic, or extracurricular successes
• Acts of leadership, kindness, or resilience

1.19 - No School

1.23 - End of Marking Period