MMS Counseling Newsletter

The new school year is here and our department is excited to start working with students and families. We are able to make connections with students through our Connect and Careers courses, individual counseling, a variety of small groups we offer, and so many other ways.

We are fortunate to have three School Counselors at MMS. This year Mr. Campbell will be the 6th grade counselor, Mrs. Seifert will be the 7th grade counselor and Mrs. Dusek will be the 8th grade counselor. We are also grateful to have Mrs. Graham, RFSD 6-12 Social Worker, Ms. Bowers, School Psychologist and Mrs. Pitzen, our department’s secretary.

We will be sending out a newsletter each month to connect with students and families. We share what is happening in the School Counseling Department and provide resources. We encourage you to reach out with any questions you may have!

Character Education has been a strong component of Meyer Middle School’s mission. Three years ago, we started using a curriculum by Character Strong that is implemented a few times a month in student TAs. Two years ago, we added in another resource focused around small groups to support students.

Ongoing screening in both academic and social, emotional, and behavioral functioning can identify students that need additional support to increase their academic performance and improve overall well-being. Screening tools help school staff develop effective plans and allocate resources. We will administer the Character Strong Youth Needs Screener in the month of October. The Youth Needs Screener is completed by students. The results will be used as one data point in a proactive process that supports students with mentoring, organizational strategies, social skills, coping strategies, and other supports that help them fully engage in their learning. Should our team identify your child as needing additional support, you will be notified just as you would with academic interventions.

The Backpack Program begins the week of September 14th. The program offers backpacks filled with kid-friendly groceries to students in grades 4K-12 whose families are experiencing financial hardship. Attached is information about the BackPack Program.

Backpack Program Form, In Spanish

• Questions? Contact Shelly: shelly.smith@ourneighborsplace.org

Basics for Local Kids offers winter outerwear for Western Wisconsin children in need. Available winter wear includes new and gently used coats, boots, snow pants, hats, mittens/gloves, scarves, and new socks. Starting October 1, 2026, the online sign-ups and appointment scheduling will officially go live on their website. https://www.basicsforlocalkids.org/

The River Falls Police Department wants to make sure everyone stays safe and follows the rules of the road. They put together a handy E-Bike Safety Fact Sheet to help you understand the differences between Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes, electric dirt bikes, and e-scooters.

Key takeaways to remember:

* Know where to ride: Most e-bikes are welcome on bike lanes, paths, multi-use trails, and roads. Electric dirt bikes are restricted to private land with permission.
* Age requirements: Class 3 e-bikes require riders to be 16+. E-scooters have specific age and supervision rules for riders under 12.
* Safety first: Always wear a helmet, use a light at night, yield to pedestrians, and follow all traffic laws.

Mobile Apps to be Informed About

October 26th - 30th: Mental Health Awareness Week

October 30th: Activity Afternoon

November 11th: Veteran's Day Program

May 2026

April 2026