The Principal's Perspective
February 23-27
We have come this far by the power of partnership! As we move closer and closer to Spring, it is a perfect time to reflect on the foundation we are building together for our scholars. Even though we are still in "hibernation" mode, now is the time to start thinking about renewal and growth- a time to start over. It's time to make the necessary changes for us to have a power partnership!
In order for any successful partnership to thrive, we must speak the same language. Together, we write the blueprint for our scholars' success. When we align our expectations—at home and at school—we create a solid structure that allows our students to feel safe, supported, and challenged.
Together, we speak a language that expresses how we value accountability, hard work, and mutual respect. When a student hears the same message from their Principal, teacher and their parent, that message becomes a core value. This "same language" approach ensures that:
Expectations are Clear: Scholars understand that "doing your best" looks the same in the classroom as it does at home when the parent asks something.
Challenges are Opportunities: We frame mistakes not as failures, but as the "learning opportunities" necessary for growth while also taking accountability.
Support is Unified: Our scholars feel the strength of a team behind them, rather than a divided front.
Our partnership is the blueprint. While the school provides the academic tools and social framework, your partnership provides the context and the continued encouragement. We are not just teaching subjects; we are raising the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and citizens.
Thank you for your continued trust, your open communication, and your dedication to this collaborative journey. Our scholars are thriving because we are building their future together.
In middle school, social dynamics move fast. A single post, comment, or screenshot can change a student’s life in seconds. While social media feels like a private "hangout," we must remind our scholars that the internet is written in permanent marker.
To keep our students safe and focused on learning, we ask for your partnership in reinforcing these critical boundaries:
School Protocols: Recording video or audio on campus is a direct violation of the District 65 Technology Protocol.
Consent & Legality: Uploading videos or photos of others without their explicit consent is a serious matter. In many cases, sharing unauthorized or compromising footage is not just a school issue—it can be a legal one.
The "Disappearing" Myth: Nothing is truly private. Features like "disappearing" messages on Snapchat can be instantly captured via screenshot or another device and shared with an unintended audience.
The Power of the Pause: Remind your scholar that posting while angry or seeking "payback" always backfires. Once the "send" button is hit, the impact cannot be undone, and the digital footprint remains for future college recruiters and employers to see.
A Non-Negotiable for Safety!
We strongly advise parents to maintain access to their scholar’s social media passwords. In an age where online predators and cyber-stalking are real threats, monitoring is not about a lack of trust—it is about a commitment to safety.
The T.H.I.N.K. Test !
Encourage your scholar to use this simple acronym before they post:
T – Is it True? (Am I sharing facts or just a rumor?)
H – Is it Helpful? (Does this post add value, or does it hurt someone?)
I – Is it Inspiring? (Does it build people up?)
N – Is it Necessary? (Do I really need to say this right now?)
K – Is it Kind? (Would I say this to their face?)
Thank you for helping us protect our scholars’ reputations, their futures, and their safety.
Planning for 2026-2027: How Do You Want to Hear From Us?
As we begin drafting our "blueprint" for the next school year, we want to ensure our communication is hitting the mark. We know your time is valuable, and we want to reach you in the ways that work best for your family’s busy schedule.
Are our weekly newsletters helpful? Do you prefer text alerts for quick updates? Or would you like to see more video messages or social media check-ins? Are there other topics you would like to hear about?
We want your honest feedback!
Please take two minutes to answer our Communication Preference Survey. Your input will directly shape how we share news, celebrate student success, and stay connected with you next year.
Thank you for partnering with us to make our school-to-home connection even stronger!
