Family Weekly Update
1/10/24
Collins Community
The first week of the new year was a success! Thank you to all the families for ensuring students arrive at school on time. This is a critical time for instruction, and it’s essential that students are present and ready to learn. If you have any concerns about attendance, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to support you.
Thank you,
Gavin Softic (he, him)
Principal
Collins Middle School
Student Ownership through Academic Discourse
At CMS, we are focused on enhancing student ownership through academic discourse. Our goal is for students to explain and justify their thinking, taking an active role in their learning. We encourage students to do the heavy lifting in every class. You can support this effort by asking your child what they’re learning in class and using homework as an opportunity to spark meaningful discussions.
Incoming Middle Showcase A Success
Over 100 5th grade families joined us this week as we showcased Collins Middle Showcase. Thank you to everyone for building the culture of learning at CMS!
Ms. Tep's ART Website!
Ms Tep's Site
Art Website: Please check out student work captured on the website set up by Ms. Tep below featuring student work! CMS Student Work Art Website
Attendance
Students need to be Punctual
As we continue our work together to support the success of all our students, I want to take a moment to address an important matter: the importance of arriving to school on time.
Our school day officially begins at 8:15 AM, but students should be here by 8:05 AM at the latest. This gives them the time they need to settle in, put away their belongings, and prepare for a productive day of learning. Arriving on time is not just about following rules—it’s about ensuring that every student has the best opportunity to start their day without unnecessary stress or disruption.
Every minute of the school day counts. When students arrive after the bell, they miss valuable instruction and time with their teachers and peers. We know that the start of the day is crucial for setting the tone for success, and we want every child to feel ready and confident as they begin their academic journey each day.
We ask for your continued support in ensuring that your child arrives to school on time. Together, we can help our students build good habits, stay engaged, and maximize their learning opportunities.
Thank you for your partnership, and for helping us make every minute of the school day count!
Sports Schedule
Week of 12/30
BOYS BASKETBALL
MONDAY HOME VERSUS SAUGUS 4:30
WEDNESDAY AWAY VERSUS SWAMPSCOTT 4:45
PRACTICE THURSDAY 3:25-4:
GIRLS BASKETBALL
MONDAY HOME VERSUS SAUGUS 5:30
WEDNESDAY AWAY VERSUS SWAMPSCOTT 3:45
PRACTICE TUESDAY 3:25-4:30
CHEERLEADING
HOME VERSUS SAUGUS 4:00-6:30
PRACTICE THURSDAY AND FRIDAY 3:25-4:30 FITNESS ROOM
After School Programming
If you are looking for after-school programming for your student, please let us know. There are several clubs, activities, and programs available for middle school-aged students.
We’re happy to help you find the right fit!
jhrodriguez@salemk12.or csakelakis@salemk12.org
PTO
PTO Meetings
Come and Support CMS!
Meetings:
- Jan 21st 630pm
- Feb 25th 630pm
- March 18th 630pm
- April 15th 630pm
- May 20th 630pm
- June 17th 630pm
ACCESS Testing CMS
We are reaching out to remind you that our multilingual (ML) students will begin their ACCESS testing on Wednesday, January 8th. This important assessment, similar in significance to the MCAS, evaluates students in four key domains: reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
This is a challenging process for our students, and we are committed to ensuring they have the respect and encouragement needed to showcase their abilities and growth. We kindly ask for your support in helping us create an environment that honors their hard work. Here are a few ways you can assist:
- Encourage your student to show respect for ML students' testing environment by lowering voices during school transitions, especially near the library and annex spaces.
- Motivate your child to share kind words and support their peers who are participating in this rigorous assessment.
Thank you for partnering with us to ensure our ML students feel respected, motivated, and celebrated. Should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Student Recipe Taste Test
American Chop Suey A Hit!
.
ASPEN Parent Portal
Technology Family Resources
If you need assistance with the ASPEN Parent Portal please contact our family engagement facilitator, Malcolm Pimentel. mpimentel@salemk12.org
CMS School-Based Rules and Agreements
The goal of this document is to support families, staff, and students in outlining clear and consistent expectations for the Collins Middle School.
We recognize that clarity is necessary in setting a strong foundation for the positive school culture and climate at Collins Middle School. Collins Middle School is committed to providing an equitable environment for all students, and to ensuring that all students are able to access their right to a free appropriate public education. For this reason, it is vital that students and families understand the rights and responsibilities of a student of Collins Middle School. For a full overview of the areas addressed below, please refer to the Collins Middle School Handbook, which is in adherence to the Salem Public Schools Code of Conduct.
This document provides an overview of our expectations and provides details on our response to infractions in the event that situations arise over the course of the school year.
Salem Recreation Newsletter
Social Media
Links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CollinsMiddleSchoolSalemMA/
Instagram: Cmshappenings
Website: spscollins.salemk12.org