Principal's Message
As we navigate through the ups and downs of life and some of the recent area happenings in Charlottesville and around UVA, it's important to remember that we are all in this together. Challenges, whether big or small, can arise at any time. However, it's how we come together as a community that makes all the difference.
In moments when things get tough, our strength lies in supporting one another. Whether it's offering a listening ear, lending a helping hand, or simply showing kindness, each of us has the power to make a positive impact. Our school is more than just a place for learning—it's a place where we can lean on each other, share experiences, and grow stronger as a collective.
Let's continue to foster an environment where empathy, collaboration, and understanding thrive. Together, we can face any challenge and emerge even stronger.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our shared success.
Digital Citizenship: Navigating Real vs. Fake News & Responsible Online Use
In today’s digital world, information spreads quickly—but not all of it is accurate. It’s important for students (and adults!) to develop critical thinking skills to distinguish real news from misinformation. Encourage your child to ask: Who wrote this? What’s the source? Can I verify this information elsewhere? A fun way to practice these skills together is by exploring The Pacific Northwest Tree Octopus, a website that looks real but is actually a hoax! Use it as a discussion starter to help your child think critically about the reliability of online sources.
Beyond fact-checking, it’s also essential to respect digital content. Copyright laws protect creators’ work, whether it’s an article, image, or video. Students should always cite their sources and understand fair use—a principle that allows limited use of copyrighted material for education and commentary. Teaching kids to respect original work and give proper credit fosters both integrity and creativity.
By working together—at school and at home—we can empower students to navigate the digital world responsibly!
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Student-Led Conferenes
Why This Practice Matters
SLC require and empower students to take the lead in communicating their learning.
When students are asked to play a leadership role in selecting and presenting work to share they begin to take greater pride in the quality of what they do.
SLC connect families and school around the real work of students.
When students have ownership of the process and are required to make key decisions of what to include and what to say about it, this helps to build personal agency.
Roles for Student-Led Conferences
Role of Student
Lead Conference
Share Portfolio of work based on learning intentions/state standards
Role of Teacher
Creating clear expectations and guidance for the students to be successful
Communicating with families about the format and process of a SLC
Supporting the child during the conference if needed
Role of Family Member
Attend and be engaged
Ask Questions such as:
Can you tell me why this piece is important to you?
What does it say about you?
What were you thinking when you choose this piece of work for your portfolio?
What did you learn from this assignment?
Role of Admin
Support the Process
When will SLC be scheduled?
- Grade levels are in the process of communicating with families. Please look for more information from your child's teacher.
Important Dates and Reminders
Please check out the school calendar for all other school events https://mes.k12albemarle.org/about/calendar
March Specialists News
School Safety
Secure the Building Drill- March 12th at 2 PM
Our school will conduct a "Secure the Building" drill as part of our regular safety procedures. This drill is designed to practice precautionary measures in case there is a potential threat in the surrounding area, but not inside the school. During the drill, all exterior doors will be locked, and students will continue learning inside their classrooms as usual. No one will be allowed to enter or leave the building during the drill. This is an important step in ensuring that students and staff are prepared to respond quickly and calmly in the event of an emergency. This drill will only last for a couple of minutes
Please take a moment to talk to your children about the drill, so they understand its purpose is to keep them safe.If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to either me or John.
