Shepherd Middle BlueJay Bulletin
Hope that everyone enjoyed a restful Thanksgiving. Our students wrapped up the short week by celebrating the end of Trimester 1 with a BlueJay Rally.
This week, we are focusing on the meaning of responsibility and the many ways it appears in our daily routines. Students are examining their responsibilities at home, at school, and in their relationships with friends and family.
How you can help at home:
Consider asking your student, “What responsibilities do you have at home? How do you follow through on them, and why is that important?”
We are also asking families to complete the Capturing Kids Hearts Survey. This survey is specific to Shepherd Middle School, so if you have children in multiple buildings, please complete one for each building.
Survey link: https://iheartckh.com/public-survey/rpxtxa8z
December
- 22- Holiday Break begins
And just like that, we’ve arrived at the final month of the year! December often brings a mix of excitement, celebration, and—let’s be honest—a fair amount of busyness. Between events, planning, and everyday responsibilities, it can sometimes feel like we’re moving in fast-forward.
That’s why it’s so important to find small moments to pause and breathe. Even a few quiet minutes each day can help calm our minds, lower stress, and support our overall sense of well-being. Taking time to reflect can also help us notice how far we’ve come—savoring the joyful moments and learning from the challenges along the way.
As we step into this final month of the year, I hope you and your family can find time to rest, recharge, and reflect on the growth and goodness this year has brought. Here’s to finding moments of gratitude, balance, and connection as we move through this busy season together.
Amid the busy season, winter’s quiet moments invite us to pause, reflect, and be present.
Photo by Johannes Plenio on Unsplash
Thinking Beyond the Latest Phone. Middle School Gift Buying
Each year, many middle schoolers hand over a gift list containing exactly one item. A very expensive phone. While that request is predictable, there are plenty of other options they might enjoy just as much, even if they will never admit it out loud.
Hands on gadgets.
Robotics kits, mini drones, and beginner coding sets let students build, experiment, and proudly announce that something finally worked.
Board games that are actually fun.
Modern games offer strategy and humor, providing family time without anyone groaning in protest.
Creative tools.
Sketch kits, beading supplies, embroidery sets, or digital drawing pads can unlock surprising talents.
Experience gifts.
Mini golf, pottery studios, indoor climbing passes, or workshops give students something exciting to do over break.
Cozy comforts.
Blankets, slippers, socks, and beanbag chairs may earn an eye roll, but they will be used daily.
A slightly unexpected gift can bring joy, spark creativity, and remind your student that there is more to the season than screen upgrades.
