Life in the Middle

Dear Middle School Families,

As we welcome November, we are reminded of how much we have to be thankful for! This month is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our students' growth, recognize their accomplishments, and continue building a positive school community. Thank you for your continued support and partnership!

Our students continue to work hard in the classroom as we move through the second quarter. Please encourage your child to:

• Complete assignments and turn in homework on time

• Stay organized

• Ask questions and seek help when needed

• Read at home for at least 20 minutes each day

November Highlights

• Thankfulness: Encourage your child to practice gratitude and recognize the people who make a difference in their lives.

• Kindness Matters: Remind students that small acts of kindness can make a big difference.

• Attendance Counts: Every school day is an opportunity to learn and grow. Let's make attendance a priority!

We are thankful for our amazing students, supportive families, dedicated teachers, and school community. Middle school is a time of tremendous growth, and we appreciate everyone who helps our students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.

We wish all of our families a safe, happy, and restful Thanksgiving!

With gratitude,

Mrs. Thayer

Mr. O’Farrell

Mr. Faraci

November 4- No Early Release

November 5- 1/2 Day, Students Release at 10:43

November 6- No School

November 13- Middle School Follies

November 18- Str8 Talk Assembly

November 18- 5/6 Student of the Month Breakfast

November 19- 7/8 Student of the Month Breakfast

November 25- 1/2 Day, Students Release at 10:43

November 26- No School, Happy Thanksgiving

November 27- No School

Harper Creek Middle School will be having an assembly on Wednesday, November 18th for all students. Through an engaging and interactive presentation, STR8TALK aims to empower young people with the knowledge and skills they need to make healthy choices and avoid the pitfalls of substance abuse. The program covers a wide range of topics, like helping students understand the consequences of drug and alcohol abuse by way of a real-life story, provides tools to understand the signs of a person using drugs and/or alcohol, inspires students to make the most of their lives and follow their dreams and helps students understand the value of self-validation and self-love and making the most of their lives.

Have you ever wondered what makes a student excited to come to school each day? While academics are an important part of education, there is something equally important: feeling like you belong.

School is about more than textbooks, assignments, and grades. It is also about building friendships, developing relationships with trusted adults, discovering interests, and feeling like you are an important part of a community.

When students feel connected to their school, they are more likely to attend regularly, participate in class, engage in learning, and develop positive relationships with others. On the other hand, students who feel isolated, left out, or disconnected may begin to lose interest in school. Sometimes, what looks like an attendance or motivation problem may actually be a deeper need for connection and belonging.

Every student needs at least one person at school who knows them, notices them, and makes them feel valued.

How Can Families Help Build a Sense of Belonging?

Parents and caregivers play an important role in helping students develop meaningful connections. Here are a few ways to encourage belonging:

• Ask about friendships: Find out who your child spends time with and whether they feel included.

• Talk about their day: Go beyond asking, "How was school?" Try asking, "Who did you sit with at lunch?" or "Did anyone make you smile today?"

• Encourage involvement: Sports, clubs, extracurricular activities, and school events provide opportunities to build friendships and discover interests.

• Celebrate connections: Recognize the importance of positive relationships with teachers, coaches, and other trusted adults.

• Watch for changes: If your child begins withdrawing, avoiding school, or expressing that they don't fit in, take time to explore what may be happening.

A Little Connection Goes a Long Way!

As a school community, we all play a role in creating an environment where students feel welcomed, included, and supported.

Remember, students don't just need a place to learn; they need a place where they feel they belong.

Let's continue working together to build a school community where every student feels seen, heard, valued, and connected. Because when students feel like they belong, they have another reason to show up, get involved, and succeed!

Stop the Silence. Help end the Violence.

All of us can be the eyes and ears of the community and ensure that our children are safe. I encourage everyone—students, staff, parents, and community members— to report potentially harmful or criminal acts using OK2SAY.

To submit a confidential tip:

• Call 855.565.2729
• Text 652729 (OK2SAY)
• Email ok2say@mi.gov
• Download the Mobile App search OK2SAY
• Visit the OK2SAY website at www.ok2say.com