Haverford Middle School Newsletter

Middle school is a time of tremendous growth. Our students are figuring out who they are, finding their people, and learning how to navigate friendships and relationships. Along the way, they are also discovering just how powerful their words can be.

This week has been a reminder that words matter. A careless comment, an unkind joke, or something said in frustration can stay with someone long after the conversation ends. But the opposite is also true. A compliment, a word of encouragement, or simply including someone can change the course of their day.

We often remind students that they have a choice in how they treat others. As adults, we have the opportunity to model that choice every day.

As you head into the weekend, consider having a conversation with your child about the power of their words. Encourage them to pause before speaking and ask themselves: Is it kind? Is it necessary? Is it helpful? Our words have the power to build someone up or tear someone down. Let's help our students choose to build.

Our winter sports meetings for families will be held on November 5th, 6:00 pm at Haverford High School. Please join us if your 7th and 8th grade student is interested in the following winter sports:

• boys basketball
• girls basketball
• wrestling
• cheerleading

With cold and flu season approaching, we want to remind families of our school’s medication policy. Students may not carry prescription or over-the-counter medications at school. The only exceptions are EpiPens, inhalers, and diabetes medications, in accordance with school procedures.

Any medication that needs to be kept in the nurse’s office must be brought to school by a parent or guardian, rather than sent with a student.

We recognize that our students are responsible, but mistakes can happen. Our medication policy helps keep all students safe. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!

The safety of our students, families, and staff is always our top priority. We appreciate your cooperation in keeping traffic moving safely and efficiently around HMS, particularly during our busy morning arrival and afternoon dismissal times.

To help ensure a safe and smooth arrival and dismissal, please keep the following reminders in mind:

• Follow all posted parking and drop-off signs. Please do not park illegally or stop in areas where parking is prohibited.

• Use designated drop-off areas. Students may be dropped off in safe, legal locations along Darby Road, Marthart Avenue, or Golf Road. Consider dropping your child off a block or more from school to help reduce congestion. Illegally parked cars create a bottleneck that makes it difficult for traffic to flow safely.

• Use the designated crosswalk on Darby Road. Students crossing Darby Road should do so where the crossing guard is stationed.

• Keep the bus lane clear. Please do not enter the bus lane on Darby Road unless you are accessing the main office.

• Stay out of the side and rear parking lots. These areas are not designated for student drop-off, pick-up, or parent parking.

Attendance Procedures

Clubs and Activities Schedule

Clubs and Activities Slide Show