Selma Middle School Weekly Update

We Are Selma

Monday, Sept. 15

Volleyball & Boys Soccer at home (4:15) against Four Oaks

Thursday, Sept. 18

Football at Princeton (4:00)

Approaching Dates

Monday, Sept 22

1st Progress Report

Wednesday, Sept 24

SeMS Picture Day

Dear Selma Middle School Families,

As we enter our fourth week of school, thank you for partnering with us to build strong routines that set students up for success.

Quick look back:
Last week we focused on the power of consistent morning habits—getting up on time, being ready at the bus stop, and arriving to school prepared. Many families have already made adjustments that help students start the day confident and ready to learn. Thank you!

This week’s focus: On-Time Arrival
We need your continued support to ensure students are in the building no later than 7:45 a.m. Each morning, we have 10–15 students arriving late due to missed buses or oversleeping. This week alone, those late arrivals added up to more than 10 hours of lost instruction—nearly two full school days to make up.

Our school report card was recently released, and we have big plans to strengthen student proficiency. Step 1 is simple but essential: students must be present and ready to learn each morning. Consistent attendance directly impacts learning, confidence, and—most importantly—student achievement.

Looking Ahead: NC Check-In Benchmarks
Our NC Check-In Benchmark assessments will take place at the end of October and the beginning of November. These assessments show us how well students are mastering grade-level material and guide how we support each learner.

Strong daily attendance is critical for success on these benchmarks. Students who are present every day have more time to learn, practice, and review—giving them the best chance to demonstrate their growth and strengths on these important assessments.

Here’s how you can help your student succeed:

• Set a strong morning routine. Consistent bedtimes and wake-up times make mornings smoother.

• Aim to arrive by 7:45 a.m. This ensures students are in class, settled, and ready when instruction begins.

• Stay for the full day. Every minute matters—full-day attendance supports steady growth and higher achievement.

Together, we can make sure every SeMS student has the time and opportunity to reach their full potential. Help us help your child by ensuring they’re at school, on time, every day, and ready to show their best on the upcoming NC Check-Ins.

In Partnership,
Selma Middle School Administration

Written excuses must be turned in THE DAY AFTER the student returns to school.

1. Stay Calm and Listen First
Create a safe space for your child to share what happened without interruption. Listen for feelings as well as facts.
Tip: Repeat back what you hear (“It sounds like you felt left out when…”) so your child knows you understand.

2. Avoid Immediate Blame
Encourage your child to focus on what they can control rather than labeling the other student. This shifts the conversation from “who’s wrong” to “how can we solve it?”

3. Teach “I” Statements
Practice phrases like “I felt upset when…” or “I need…” to help your child express feelings without escalating the conflict.

4. Partner with the School
If the situation continues or affects learning, contact the teacher, counselor, or administrator. Share the facts calmly and work together on next steps.

5. Model Problem-Solving
Talk through possible solutions—such as taking a break, seeking adult help, or agreeing on a compromise. Show how respectful communication works.

6. Reinforce Empathy
Discuss how the other student might feel. Understanding different perspectives helps your child develop compassion and stronger social skills.

7. Follow Up
Check back with your child and, if needed, the school to be sure the conflict has been resolved and both students feel safe.

Key Message:
Conflicts are a normal part of growing up. When parents guide their children toward respectful communication and partner with the school, students learn lifelong skills in empathy, self-control, and problem-solving.

Johnston County Affiliated Libraries have partnered with Johnston County Public Schools to expand students’ and teachers' access to educational resources through an innovative program known as StudentAccess.

Resources include eBooks, audiobooks, streaming videos, NCLIVE online databases, language learning program, standardized test prep tools, career exploration tools, and more!

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If you do not want your child to participate in this program, please contact Selma's Media Coordinator, Ms. Jackson to Opt out.

Take Responsibility

Respect Yourselves & Others

Act with Integrity

Commit to Success

Keep Safety In Mind

Nominations Coming Soon!