Shepherd Middle BlueJay Bulletin
This week, on Friday, our 8th grade students will complete their year-long Memorial Day Project. This meaningful experience gives students the opportunity to honor and remember those who have served our country. Additional details can be found in the flyer below.
Students will also be participating in Mental Health Awareness Week activities throughout the week. These activities are designed to encourage conversations about wellness, self-care, and supporting one another. More information is included below.
This week, we’re focusing on what integrity looks like in real life: following through, taking responsibility, and resisting shortcuts. Students are learning that how they act, especially when no one is watching, defines their character more than what they say.
Try this at home: Ask your child, “What’s one way you showed integrity this week?” Celebrate even the small wins!
May 25 - No School - Memorial Day
June 4 - Last Day of School- Half Day
May is Mental Health Awareness Month! At Shepherd Middle School, we’re recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month with a week of spirit days that connect to different ways students (and adults!) can support positive mental health.
Pajama Day emphasizes the importance of sleep for mental and physical well-being. Getting enough sleep each night (8–10 hours for middle schoolers) can improve mood, increase focus, support emotional regulation, and contribute to better overall health.
Twin Day celebrates friendships and supportive relationships. Healthy relationships can help us navigate difficult times more easily, encourage us toward our goals, and bring joy and laughter into our lives.
Hobby Day encourages students to explore activities that help them relax, express themselves, and manage stress in healthy ways. From gardening, to cooking, to researching your favorite dinosaur, hobbies can provide meaningful outlets and opportunities for connection and creativity.
Workout/Sports Day focuses on movement as a healthy coping skill. Whether students enjoy organized sports, riding bikes, walking outside, or simply playing with friends, physical activity is a great way to support mental health. Vigorous movement causes the body to release endorphins, which can help improve mood and reduce stress.
Finally, Green Day brings awareness to mental health itself. Green is recognized internationally as the color of mental health awareness because it represents growth, hope, healing, and emotional balance.
Throughout the week, students will also be reflecting on their school year and identifying at least one thing they are grateful for. Research has shown that practicing gratitude can support positive mental health and improve overall well-being. Each student will write what they are thankful for on a strip of paper, and together we will create paper chains to hang throughout the hallway. We hope these chains serve as a visual reminder that even during difficult seasons, there are still meaningful moments, supportive people, and hopeful days ahead.
We’d love for parents and families to participate as well! If there’s something you’re grateful for this year, please consider submitting it through our Google Form. We’d be honored to add your gratitude to our paper chain too!
