VMS ELKS Roundup
OCTOBER 2025
Wags & Wellness
Do you wonder what a school counselor does? Middle school counselors support students during one of the most important and challenging times in their development. They help students navigate academic pressures, social changes, and emotional ups and downs that often come with adolescence. Counselors provide individual and group support, teach skills like conflict resolution and time management, and help students set goals for the future. They also work closely with parents and teachers to ensure each student’s needs are met, making sure school is a safe, supportive space for growth and learning. If you ever have a question, you don’t know who you should ask, your counselor is a great person to start with. They work hard to connect students, staff, and families to resources to support them through whatever may come up.
There are many programs that we partner with closely. There are a few we would love to highlight:
Wags & Wellness! We are excited to welcome Heather and her golden retrievers, June and Shandy, this school year! They are therapy dogs from the “You’re Not Alone” program that visits VandenBerge weekly to support students and staff throughout the school year, most commonly in group settings. Being therapy dogs, they are certified, registered and have completed obedience training. Students will be able to sign up using a link posted to Schoology each week to see them and participate in groups during their lunch time.
Every Meal
Bullying Prevention Month
October is National Bullying Prevention Month, a time for our school community to come together and take a stand against bullying. At the middle school level, it’s especially important to raise awareness and teach kindness, empathy, and respect. We at VMS take bullying very seriously and work hard to prevent and overcome any bullying that occurs within our school. Let’s work together to speak up, support one another, and help make our school a place where every student feels valued and accepted.
Sandy Hook Promise
If you or someone you know is experiencing any form of bullying, please let a staff member know so that they can help to put a stop to it. If you would prefer to stay anonymous, you can report to our team using Say Something online or using the Say Something app.
School counselors are here to support you with anything you're going through. We are someone you can trust, who will listen without judgment and help you find solutions. If you're feeling overwhelmed or just need someone to talk to, don't hesitate to reach out. You're never alone—your counselor is here to help.
Student Support/Counseling Office Contact
Counseling Admin Assistant: Jennifer Eldredge, 763.241.3450 ext. 2630 or 763.241.3445
Counselor: Katie Svihel, 763.241.3450 ext. 2631
(Supporting Students with Last Names A- L)
Counselor: Caitlin Ferguson, 763.241.3450 ext. 2659
(Supporting Students with Last Names M-Z)
- School Social Worker: Kate Burgoon, 763.241.3450 ext: 2687
Choir Day at Target Field
On Saturday, September 20th, members of the VMS 8th Grade Choir participated in Choir Day with the Minnesota Twins, joining hundreds of other students in the singing of our National Anthem prior to the game. It was a great event!
Click the link to stay informed about this month’s upcoming due dates and key events for your student(s).
Cell Phones and Devices: A Guide for Parents
By age 11, about half of children in the U.S. own a smartphone. When you hand your child a cellphone, you're giving them a powerful tool for communication and entertainment. These devices become a constant companion in the lives of preteens and teens—a source of connection, creativity, and, yes, even distraction. Here are some ways for parents and caregivers to guide their children to use their phones in healthy and responsible ways.
- VMS Fall Conferences Dates: 10/9/25 (4-7 PM), 10/14/25 (4-7 PM) , 10/15/25 (8:00-11:30 AM & 12:30-3:00 PM)
- 8th Grade Career & College Day Field Trip: 10/10/25
- Activities Night: 10/24/25 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
- 8th Grade AVID Field Trip: 10/23/25
- Picture Retake Day (during Homeroom): 10/24/25
8th Grade Choir Fest
Halloween Concert featuring VMS & Salk 8th Grade Band + ERHS Bands at ERHS: 10/30/25
End of 1st Quarter: Friday, 10/31/25
School Not in Session: 10/15/25, 10/16/25, 10/17/25, 11/3/25, 11/27/25, 11/28/25
School Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 3:30pm
School Website: https://vms.isd728.orgRegistration: Welcomecenter@isd728.org (763.241.3536)
District Website: www.isd728.org
