Nichols News

Dear 8th Grade Families,

I hope this newsletter finds you refreshed and rejuvenated after our fall break! There's something special about having extra time with everyone at home, and I trust you were able to create some wonderful memories together during this pause in our busy school routines. I was lucky enough to visit my younger brother and dad in Florida over the break. We enjoyed a few days together in the pool, playing golf, and watching the Lions! 😬😉

As we welcome students back today and the temperature continues to drop (and as Jon Snow would remind us, "Winter is coming!"), we're entering a season filled with gratitude and celebration... along with some snow! These moments of transition give us a perfect opportunity to reflect on what matters most – including the importance of kindness and compassion in both our school community and greater community at large!

Our 8th graders continue to be role models for the younger students, and I encourage you to help reinforce the message of treating others with respect and understanding. In these shorter, colder days ahead, a warm smile or kind word can make all the difference in someone's day. Have a great week and please do not hesitate to reach out with any wonderings or concerns!

Best,

Ms. Ernvall

Check out the link for the Counselor Newsletter - 4th Edition! One thing I would like to highlight is regarding the program called ESCCA!

ESCCA is an all volunteer program that provides free clothing and shoes to children from Evanston/Skokie School District 65. Some items are new and some are gently used. ESCCA is located at the District 65 building, 1500 McDaniel Blvd, Evanston. Please see the link below for more information. Contact our Health Clerk, Ms. Pacheco, our School Social Workers or School Counselors for an application to receive ESCCA services.

As we settle into the winter season, I wanted to remind everyone about our recess policy. Students will have outdoor recess when the real feel temperature is above 25°F. When temperatures fall to 25°F or below, we will hold indoor recess for student safety and comfort. Please ensure your child comes to school prepared with a warm coat, gloves or mittens, and appropriate footwear. Since students may still be required to participate in outdoor recess regardless of their attire, proper winter clothing is essential for their comfort and wellbeing during these colder months.

📚 ETHS Coming: Reps from ETHS are coming to meet with the 8th grade students on December 17th for Grade Course and Elective Course Review. It would be helpful for scholars if they are registered prior to this meeting!

📚 Graduation Picture Day: Graduation pictures will take place at Nichols on January 17th, 2025. Pictures will take place first thing in the morning. There is no guarantee that these will have retakes so please plan accordingly.

We’re excited to begin MAP testing this Thursday! You can support your student’s success by helping them prepare with the following tips:

1. Get a good night's rest: Ensure your student has plenty of sleep by turning off cell phones and computers by 8 p.m. This helps their body wind down and prepare for restful sleep.

2. Start the day with a healthy breakfast: A nutritious breakfast is key to focus and energy. Encourage your scholar to avoid items like energy drinks, sugary coffees, and candy. For convenience, our breakfast program opens at 7:40 a.m.

3. Encourage effort: Remind your scholar to give their best effort—it's the determination that counts most!

4. Celebrate their hard work: Incentives are a great way to motivate students and don’t need to be monetary. Here are some fun, simple ideas:

   • Family game night
   • Sleep-in Saturday
   • A visit to an animal shelter to play with pets
   • Extra video game time
   • A family sleepover with a homemade fort, popcorn, and a movie
   • A virtual family field trip
   • "Hibachi at home" night or making a fun dessert together
     
     

Thank you for partnering with us to help your scholar shine during testing!

Everyday students post their sketches, work in progress and final projects in SeeSaw. Parents have access to SeeSaw, you can see, like and comment on your students work in SeeSaw.

8th Grade SeeSaw

8th Grade Media Arts - Students put all of their work into a Google Slide Portfolio

If you are having trouble getting into SeeSaw, feel free to reach out and I can get you connected.

Grading

Students must turn in all projects before the rotation ends. Students are not penalized for work being late but incomplete work is marked with an incomplete in the gradebook. Students are welcome to go to Art Club after school on Tuesday's to complete incomplete work.

8th Grade has two field trips on the horizon...

- Dec. 12th : Students will go to the Field Museum

- Jan. 8th : Possible AVID trip to ETHS