What's new with Watkins Middle?

Sixth Grade First Day — August 17

How do I find out about important Information?: The most comprehensive communication for WMS is a newsletter emailed through Final Forms from the Principal to parents & students every Sunday called S’mores. This can also be found on our Facebook page and website. Please take a few minutes to read and find out what is happening at WMS.

How do I know what school supplies to get and where they go?: Since students change classes every 40 minutes, some school supplies should be turned in to teachers, while others should stay with students and be carried from class to class. Before the first day of school, please use the supply list to label, organize, and separate the items that need to be turned in. Helping your student prepare their supplies in advance will ensure they are organized and ready for success in every class!

Can my child have a cell phone?: Per state law students are not allowed to have their cell phones at school. They should be off and away. The first time a student gets their phone taken they will have an automatic 45-minute after school detention and be able to pick up the phone at the end of the day. A second offense will result in the parent having to pick up the phone in the office.

What if I plan on picking up my child instead of them riding the bus?: If you need to change your child’s transportation you just need to communicate with them. You do not need to call the office to make a change. If you are not able to communicate with them ahead of time please call the office by 2:00 p.m. and we will get a message to your student. Students are not permitted to ride a bus they are not assigned to.

How do I get in contact with my child's teacher?: Please email teachers if you have questions or concerns throughout the year. Please allow them 24 hours to respond. We do not use Class Dojo in MS.

Why do I see the Kona Ice Truck outside of the school some days?: Throughout the year Kona Ice, Whits & Coffee trucks come during recess for a variety of events. Dates will be communicated ahead of time with information on forms of payment and costs.

Where will my child's locker be and how often can they go?: 6th grade lockers are in the 600 & 700 hallway. Students have time to go to their lockers throughout the day, encourage them to check their schedule and plan out times to switch their materials.

Can students carry backpacks?: Students are not allowed to carry a backpack throughout the day in the building.

My child left their jacket at school how can I get it?: Found items are stored in lost and found in the cafeteria, with the exception of electronics/jewelry/glasses which are brought to the office. Lost and found is cleared out and donated on the following dates: 10/19, 12/18, 2/12, 3/19, & 6/1.

How will I know what assignments my child has due?: Each student is given an agenda at the beginning of the school year. This will be used as a restroom pass & to record assignments. 6th grade teachers expect them to carry agendas at all times. Ask your student to see their agenda to help them plan. Please be sure your child’s name is written clearly on it.

How do I check grades?: Students grades can be viewed in Progress Book, if you do not have access to Progress Book please email lgravesbeck@swls.us.

Where do I sign up for conferences.: We use MyConference to schedule all teachers in the building. A link will be shared in the Smores email close to conference time.