APRIL 2016 Pioneer Pride – Breaking Barriers
Transcripción
APRIL 2016 Pioneer Pride – Breaking Barriers
Pioneer Pride – Breaking Barriers Mr. Gus Martinez, Principal Mrs. Elena Barham, Assistant Principal Mr. Joseph Guinther, Assistant Principal Mrs. Diana Calderon, Dean Mr. Steven Pickering Dean April 2016 Volume 8, Issue 8 We’re on the Web! www.lcps.org/sms Sterling Middle School 201 W. Holly Avenue Sterling, VA 20164 Phone: 571-434-4520 Fax: 703-444-7492 Absentee: 571-434-4522 Check our website for the most up to date information. Follow us on Twitter! @SterlingMiddle1 APRIL 2016 Sterling Middle School is Re-designated A Schools to Watch® School! Congratulations to the staff, students, and families of Sterling Middle School for being re-designated a Schools to Watch® School. Schools to Watch® is an initiative launched by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform. Through the Schools to Watch® initiative, the National Forum identifies schools across the United States that are well on their way to meeting the Forum’s criteria for high performance. Sterling Middle School is one of those schools! Forum members believe that three things are true of high-performing middle-grades schools like Sterling Middle School: They are academically excellent — these schools challenge all students to use their minds well. They are developmentally responsive — these schools are sensitive to the unique developmental challenges of early adolescence. They are socially equitable — these schools are democratic and fair, providing every student with high-quality teachers, resources, and supports. To achieve this level of performance, high-performing schools establish norms, structures, and organizational arrangements to support and sustain their trajectory toward excellence. They have a sense of purpose that drives every facet of practice and decision-making. Way to go Sterling. I couldn’t be a prouder principal! Mr. Martinez Inside This Issue: School Information Calendar SOL Test Dates and Tips Pioneer Posts Congratulations Free Money Message from the Nurse Online Safety Tips Parent Resource Center Principal’s Page: Middle Years ADMINISTRATION Mr. Gus Martinez-Principal Mrs. Barham-Assistant Principal Mr. Guinther-Assistant Principal Mrs. Bartow-Main Office Secretary Mrs. Bendel-Main Office Secretary Mrs. Goodwin-Bookkeeper Mrs. Siebs-Nurse DEANS Mrs. Calderon and Mr. Pickering COUNSELORS Mrs. Sedor-8th Grade Miss Perez-7th Grade Mrs. Johnson-6th Grade SCHOOOL NURSE Mrs. Siebs PTSA PRESIDENT Cindy Luetkemeier Visitors: Main Office entrances are labeled A-5 and A-6. All visitors must show a photo ID prior to entry, then report to the main office to sign in. You will receive a visitor’s pass and will be required to wear a visitor’s name tag while in the building. Sterling Middle School Attendance Hotline Important information from the Attendance Office Absences: As a reminder, the following absences are excused illness, death in the family, religious holiday, and court appearance. In order for your child’s absence to be excused, you must contact the school. An extended absence must be pre-approved by the principal. The school will continue to work collaboratively with you to ensure that no child has excessive absences. Early dismissal: Please send a note with your student if you know ahead of time that he/she needs to be dismissed early. This will help avoid delays, especially if you have doctors’ appointments. Late drop off: Students coming late will sign in at the House A Office. Please make sure that you call or send a note with your child that explains the reason of the tardy. Please do not drop off your child before 8:00 a.m. Our building opens at 8:00am. Un mensaje de la Oficina de Asistencia Ausencias: Como recordatorio, las siguientes faltas se consideran justificadas- enfermedad, muerte en la familia, día festivo religioso, y día de corte. Para que la falta de su hijo/a sea justificada, usted debe contactar a la escuela. Una falta contínua debe de ser preaprobada por el director. La escuela continuará trabajando colaborativamente con usted para asegurarnos que su hijo/a no tenga faltas excesivas. Salida Temprano: Por favor mande una nota con su niño si sabe que va a salir temprano. Esto le evitará retrasos, especialmente si tiene cita con el doctor. Llegada Tarde: Los alumnos que lleguen tarde deben de anotarse en la oficina del grado A. Por favor asegúrese de llamar o enviar una nota con su niño que explique la razón de su retraso. Por favor no deje a su niño antes de las 8:00am. Nuestro edificio abre a las 8:00am. To leave a message regarding your child’s absence, call 571-434-4522. Please include the following information: Name of the student Reason for the absence Grade Relationship to the student Para reportar a su niño ausente, llame al 571-4344522. Por favor incluya la siguiente información: Nombre del alumno Razón por su ausencia Grado Parentesco April 2016 Sunday 27 Monday 28 Tuesday 29 Wednesday 30 Thursday 31 Friday 1 *Grade Color Day Saturday 2 6:white/7:red/8:black, All-County Orchestra at Freedom High School, 3 4 5 6 7 TALENT SHOW All-County Orchestra 7:00-8:30 pm, Concert at Freedom HS 8 9 Strings Rehearsal -7th/8th Student vs. Faculty Basketball Game and Sports Extravaganza 6-8 pm at Park View High School 10 11 17 12 13 OTTW Fine Arts Night 14 End of 3rd quarter, Autism Awareness Day, No school for students Strings Rehearsal - 6th CAMPUS Parent Meeting & Poertry Café in the library Plan/Records/Conf. day Workshop at Stone Hill MS during each lunch block, PTSA Meeting 6:30-library 7:00-8:30 pm, Oakgrove Transporation (Vote on By-laws) PEP Meeting 6:30 in A14 Community Mtg. 6:30 pm 19 20 Strings Rehearsal - 6th, 21 22 23 4th quarter begins, Chick-Fil-A Nite@Sugarland District Solo/Ensemble 8th Grade Panoramic Crossing 5-8, LCPS Academy of Assessment - Seneca Ridge, Picture 2-2:30, Engineering & Technology Strings Rehearsal - 7th Information Meeting 7 pm, MSAAC Mtg. 6pm Admin Bldg 25 Student Book Swap 16 6:00 - 9:00 pm, 18 24 15 SCA Meeting 26 27 AVID Assembly- 5th block and Sale this week 7th/8th Band Work Session 9:00 - 3:30 SCA Meeting-End of in the library year celebration, (School Event only) Student Book Swap/Sale 28 29 8th Grade PVHS EXPO 30 Report Cards go out, AVID Night 6:30-8:00 pm, 8:45-1:00, County Jazz Assessment Band Rehearsal - 7th District Jazz Rehearsals/ District Jazz Rehearsals/ Briar Woods HS at PVHS 3:30-9 Student Book Swap/Sale Earth Day Performance-Briar Woods, Performance-Briar Woods, District Jazz Rehearsals/ Admin. Professionals Day, ACDA Honors Choir Trip, ACDA Honors Choir Trip, Performance-Briar Woods, Student Book Swap/Sale Student Book Swap/Sale Student Book Swap/Sale ACDA Honors Choir Trip Upcoming SOL Testing Information Important SOL retake information SOL Testing Dates: May 13: May 16 & 17: May 18 & 19: May 20: May 23 & 24: May 25 & 26: May 31: June 1 & 2: June 3: June 6 & 7: Geometry SOL Reading 6 SOL Algebra SOL Math 8 SOL Reading 7 SOL Reading 8 SOL Civics SOL Math 7 SOL Science 8 SOL Math 6 SOL We want to inform you of legislation that allows certain students in grades 3‐8, who do not pass the upcoming Reading, Math, Science and/or History SOL test, a single opportunity to retake that test prior to June 15, 2016. Eligible students must score between 375 and 399 on the SOL test and be passing the class or classes. LCPS is notifying parents and guardians to make you aware of the opportunity and to advise you that verbal or written permission is required before your student can retest. Please note that participation in the retake opportunity is optional and will not impact your student’s grade in the course, promotion to the next grade, or next year’s course placement. If your student is eligible for the retake opportunity, the school will contact you in writing or by phone to further explain the opportunity and to obtain your consent or refusal. The legislation that requires parent/guardian permission before retesting students taking grade level SOL tests does not apply to End‐of‐Course SOL tests, such as Algebra I, Geometry or Algebra II. If you have any questions about this information, please contact your student’s Principal or Assistant Principal. SOL Tips for Sterling Middle Students: What are SOL’s? SOL stands for Standards of Learning. Virginia Public Schools establish minimum expectations for what students should know and be able to do at the end of each grade in English, Math, Science, History, Social Science, Technology, Foreign Language, Fine Arts, Health and Physical Education and Driver Education. Every year students are tested in different subjects at the end of the year. As a parent, you can help your child to stay relaxed and calm during the SOL tests displaying a positive attitude about the tests and helping him or her this way: (Continued on next page) SOL Tips for Sterling Middle Students: One month before Review your child’s curriculum and the links in his teachers’ websites that contain resources for the SOL’s Know when the SOL test will be given and mark these dates on your calendar. This will help you plan ahead, not scheduling many activities prior to the tests. Make sure your child understands the value you place on his/her performance and achievement Set clear expectations about the test results and plan how much extra time your student will prepare for the test. Ask your child’s teacher about specific areas of weaknesses and/or suggestions of how to help your child improve. Ask your child what are the strategies that he has used in the past during sol’s and see how they have helped him/her. Review all strategies with him/her (read the entire question, read all the answer choices, use process of elimination, underline, circle, consider an educated guess, answer all the questions, review, use all the tools available, read again, etc..) One week before Provide good balanced meals for your child. Avoid junk food! Try not to have a hectic schedule for your child and make sure he or she sleeps well. No sleep overs with friends the weekend before SOLs! Review the SOL resources and websites recommended for review by the teachers One day before the test Send your child to bed early. A good night of sleep will do wonders for your brain! No phones in the room, TV or computer late at night! Have a good light breakfast packed with protein ready for your student for the next morning If he or she wears glasses, make sure you student brings them to school all of the testing days. The day of the test Make sure your student gets to school on time, so you he or she doesn’t feel rushed on testing days Make sure he/she had a great breakfast and has a light snack with him/her Encourage your child to try hard and do his/her best! Remind him/her to use his strategies and read well! Are you Be your child’s number one achievement cheerleader! Ready? Planea Antes Tips Para Tomar Los Examenes SOL De La Escuela Secundaria De Sterling: Qué son los SOL’s? SOL son los Exámenes de Estándares de Aprendizaje de las Escuelas Públicas de Virginia en donde se establecen expectativas mínimas que los estudiantes deben saber y ser capaces de hacer al final de cada grado en Inglés, Matemáticas, Ciencias, Historia, Ciencias Sociales, Tecnología, Lengua extranjera, Bellas Artes, Salud y Educación Física y Educación Vial. Cada año los estudiantes son evaluados en diferentes materias al final del año. Como padre, usted puede ayudar a su hijo a mantenerse relajado y tranquilo durante los exámenes de SOL mostrando una actitud positiva acerca de las pruebas y ayudando a su hijo/a de esta manera: Un mes antes • Revisar el plan de estudios de su hijo y los enlaces en los sitios web de sus maestros que contienen recursos para el SOL • Sabiendo cuándo se dará el examen de SOL y marcando estas fechas en su calendario. Esto le ayudará a planificar el futuro, no programar muchas actividades previas a los exámenes . • Asegúrese de que su hijo entienda el valor que usted pone en su desempeño y el logro • Establecer expectativas claras sobre los resultados de las pruebas y planificar la cantidad de tiempo extra a su estudiante se preparará para la prueba. • Pregunte al maestro de su hijo/a sobre áreas específicas de debilidad y / o sugerencias de cómo ayudar a su hijo a mejorar . • Pregúntele a su hijo cuáles son las estrategias que ha utilizado en el pasado durante los SOL y ver cómo le han ayudado a él / ella. • Revisar todas las estrategias con él / ella (leer la pregunta, lea todas las opciones de respuesta, el uso de un proceso de eliminación, subrayado, círculo, considere una conjetura, responder a todas las preguntas, comentarios, utilizar todas las herramientas disponibles, leer de nuevo, etc.) Preparate Una semana antes de • Proporcionar una buena dieta equilibrada para su hijo/a. Evitar la comida chatarra! • Trate de no tener un horario agitado para su hijo y asegúrese de que él o ella duerma bien. Que no se quede a dormir con amigos el fin de semana antes SOL! • Revisar los recursos SOL y sitios web recomendados para su revisión por los profesores Un día antes de la prueba • Envíe a su hijo a la cama temprano. Una buena noche de sueño va a hacer maravillas para su cerebro! No hay teléfonos en la habitación, televisor o la computadora a altas horas de la noche! • Asegúrese de que tenga un desayuno ligero lleno de proteínas listo para su estudiante para la mañana siguiente • Si él o ella usa lentes, asegúrese de que el estudiante los trae a la escuela todos los días de los exámenes. El día de la prueba • Asegúrese de que el estudiante llegue a la escuela a tiempo, por lo que él o ella no se siente precipitó en días de exámenes • Asegúrese de que él / ella tenía un gran desayuno y tiene un ligero aperitivo con él / ella • Anime a su hijo a probar duro y hacer su / su mejor! Estas • Él / ella Recuerde a utilizar sus estrategias y leer bien! Listo? Ser el porrista número uno de los logros de su hijo/a! 40th Annual Student vs. Faculty Basketball Game and Sports Extravaganza! The Health and Physical Education Department at Sterling Middle School invite you to attend our “Sports Extravaganza” on Friday, April 8th at Park View High School from 6‐8 pm. This special night will include two events. From 6 – 7:30 pm there will be representatives from most of the sports clubs servicing the Sterling area. They will be able to answer questions about registration dates, cost, opportunities for scholarships and other general information. The second event will be our 40th annual Student vs. Faculty basketball game beginning at 6:30 pm. Teachers, administrators, and staff members will be playing Sterling Middle School students in a fun‐ filled basketball game. There will be halftime entertainment provided by our Latin Dance Club, a chance to take a half‐court shot contest, PTSA concession stand, and students performing the national anthem. There is no cost to visit the sports representatives. Tickets for the game will be $1.00 and will be sold at the door. We hope to see you there! More posts on next page Library Poetry Café Original Poetry Readings by Sterling Middle School Students April 1st: Typed poems due – turn in to Mrs. Light, Mrs. Gold or Mrs. Schray Poetry Readings during lunch blocks on Thursday, April 14th 6th Grade 7th Grade 8th Grade 12:00 – 12:30 12:38 – 1:08 1:18 – 1:48 Sterling Middle PTSA Fundraiser Chick‐Fil‐A Sugarland Crossing location Wednesday, April 20th 5:00‐8:00 pm Grab some dinner and support our PTSA at the same time! Just a reminder… SOLs begin in May May 13: May 16 & 17: May 18 & 19: May 20: May 23 & 24: May 25 & 26: May 31: June 1 & 2: June 3: June 6 & 7: Geometry SOL Reading 6 SOL Algebra SOL Math 8 SOL Reading 7 SOL Reading 8 SOL Civics SOL Math 7 SOL Science 8 SOL Math 6 SOL Loudoun County Public Schools Substitute Teacher Employment Opportunities Did you know that between kindergarten and twelfth grade, a student has had a substitute for the equivalent of one year? LCPS is currently seeking dynamic, creative, professional substitutes with training in the pedagogy of teaching. This is a great way to remain in the field of your choice with the flexibility of choosing your work schedule! If you are interested, please apply online at www.sub4loudoun.com and contact Sub‐ Central at [email protected]. Thank you! Congratulations Pioneers! Math Competition 8th Grade Strings Stone Hill MS and Farmwell MS hosted a Math Competition on April 2nd, for middle school students in Loudoun County. It included students in private schools, public school and home schooled students. Sterling Middle School had 3 teams of 5 entered in the competition where they competed in 2 rounds: An individual round-where each student worked independently on 10 timed questions, and a team round-where the 5 team members worked collaboratively on 10 timed questions. All of the students did amazingly well on both the individual and team rounds. One of our students, Rhea V., got a perfect score on the individual round and went to the "play-off" round where she earned herself a 3rd place trophy. We are so proud of all of the students for their hard work, dedication to learning and for representing Sterling Middle School with pride and academic excellence. 7th Graders: 8th graders: Bruce Liska Alex Schaefer Kyle Johnson Naomi Utgaard Bryan Ayala Rhea Vidyababu Amro Kahar Patrick Ryan, Jr. Ram Luetkemeier Thanh Ngo Kaycee Portillo Neehan Tahir Melanie Rosa Asma Ahmad Fatima Shaikh The 8th grade strings students earned an Excellent rating at the District 16 Orchestra Assessment held at Belmont Ridge Middle School on Saturday, March 12th. They were assessed on performance and sight reading. They received an excellent rating on the performance and a superior rating on the sight reading. Congratulations to the students on a job well done! Battle of the Books The first-ever Sterling Middle School Battle of the Books team finished their season with a third place finish at the county finals, held at Trailside Middle School in Ashburn on March 17th. Our small five-member team made an excellent showing against the much larger and more experienced teams. Congratulations again to Esteban, June, Natalie, Rhea, and Caitlynn on your tremendous season! We are looking forward to seeing you all again for next year's battle! Chorus News th 8 grade chorus students Matthew Chesnutt and Kaitlyn Smith made it to the 2016 American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) All State MS Honor Choir. The alternate is Kenia Hernandez. Matthew and Kaitlyn were selected from a total of 1,071 applicants! They will travel to the Virginia Beach area April 28 to 30 for a concert. All-County Guitar Auditions were held at Belmont Ridge Middle School on January 15. The following Sterling Middle School students were selected to AllCounty Guitar. They performed Friday and Saturday, March 4th and 5th at the Loudoun County Public Schools All County Guitar Festival at River Bend Middle School. Brian Ayala Miranda Lauren Belt Jahidi Medina Isabella Ramos Alex Shaeffer Alison Vasquez-Orellana Melana Washington FREE You wouldn’t throw money in the trash would you? So don’t throw away the Box Tops for Education on many everyday products you use. Every valid Box Top is worth a dime. Clip them, bring to school and turn them into your advisory teacher. Each quarter we have a contest to see which advisory brings in the most. So far Mrs. Latourrette’s and Mr. Austin’s classes have won. Who will win the 3rd quarter contest? Time to say Adios to the Labels for Education program After many years of support the Labels for Education program is being discontinued. Please send in your labels now ‐‐‐ before the program ends and we can’t redeem them. GOOD NEWS!!!! There are still ways you can easily help support Sterling Middle School. Shop at Giant or Harris Teeter and be sure you register your store cards to support us. Who doesn’t like to eat out? Red Robin has a loyality program, and once you sign up you can earn free burgers and designate Sterling Middle and we receive a percentage of your tab. MONEY An important message from the school nurse Parents, Please remember that in order to create a healthier and safer environment for all students, Loudoun County Public Schools guidelines prohibit sharing or trading food in the school. While we appreciate that birthdays and other special occasions are often celebrated with food and other items, we are asking you to support the LCPS guidelines by finding other ways to recognize these special days or saving your celebration for after school. Additional information and suggestions are available at www.lcps.org at: Services: Student Health Services: Food Allergy tab. We appreciate your support in promoting a safer environment for our students. Janette Siebs RN, BSN Sterling Middle School 201 West Holly Ave Sterling, Virginia 20164 Padres, Por favor recuerden que para poder crear un ambiente más saludable y seguro para todos los estudiantes, los lineamientos de las Escuelas Públicas del Condado de Loudoun prohíben compartir o cambiar comida en la escuela. Aunque apreciamos que los cumpleaños y fechas especiales se celebran con comida y otras cosas, les pedimos su apoyo al adherirse a los lineamientos de LCPS y encontrar otras maneras de reconocer esos días especiales o esperar a celebrar hasta después de la escuela. Información adicional y sugerencias están disponibles a www.lcps.org a: Servicios de Salud para los Estudiantes: pestana de Alergias de Comida. Apreciamos su apoyo en promover un ambiente más seguro para nuestros estudiantes. Janette Siebs Enfermera Registrada, Licenciatura en Ciencias y Enfermeria Escuela Secundaria de Sterling 201 West Holly Avenue Sterling, Virginia 20164 FAMILY TIP SHEET Common Sense on Safe Online Talk MIDDLE SCHOOL What’s the Issue? Kids love connecting with others online. Most young people talk online with their friends and family rather than strangers. But as a parent, you might be concerned that a stranger with bad intent could contact your child. “Online predatory behavior,” as it is commonly known, is when adults contact kids or teens over the Internet in an attempt to “groom” them for inappropriate sexual relationships. Many experts, however, have found that the more realistic threat for teens online is actually “online sexual solicitation.” This means encouraging someone to talk about sex, give personal sexual information, or send sexual photos or video. (It does not always mean asking for sex.) For instance, teens might receive inappropriate requests or messages from strangers or acquaintances. However, contrary to popular belief: •Teens (ages 13 to 17) are more at risk for online solicitations than “tweens” or children •The majority of online solicitations come from teens themselves, or from young adults (ages 18 to 25) •Adults that solicit teens are usually up-front about their true age and intentions (Subrahmanyam and Smahel, 2011). Why Does It Matter? When teens are led astray about what to look out for online, they can find themselves in unhealthy situations without realizing it. The allure of these kinds of relationships is not surprising, particularly for teens who are already vulnerable. Solicitors can provide teens with a boost of self-esteem with compliments and attention. And once teens engage in these relationships, they might agree to do things they would not normally do because of the imbalance in power between them and the solicitor. It is often not until much later that they realize that they were being manipulated. common sense says Discuss responsible online behavior. Talk about who it’s okay to chat with and what is okay to talk about. Remember that many young teens are beginning to experiment with flirting and relationships. This is normal. But online flirting with strangers or acquaintances is always risky. Flirting can quickly lead to inappropriate conversations or requests. It may also lead young teens to believe they are in a serious, romantic relationship with someone they don’t really know. Both situations can make teens feel uncomfortable or manipulated. Block, ignore, or leave. Most young teens know how to brush off unwanted contact. Encourage this behavior. Make sure your child feels safe telling a trusted adult. If something creepy or inappropriate happens, young teens need to know they will not get in trouble if they tell you or another trusted adult about it. Talk to your child about healthy relationships. It can be difficult for some young teens to recognize when others are manipulating them, especially those young teens that want to experiment or prove that they are mature. Discuss which factors make relationships healthy, and why young teens should not compromise on these values. SAFE ONLINE TALK / TIP SHEET / DIGITAL LITERACY AND CITIZENSHIP / REV DATE 2015 www.commonsense.org | CREATIVE COMMONS: ATTRIBUTION-NONCOMMERCIAL-SHAREALIKE 1 Look for warning signs. Does your child seem withdrawn, spend endless hours online, or appear to be hiding something? Young teens who wind up in inappropriate online relationships often show these warning signs. If you think this might be happening, ask your child about it. Sources The Berkman Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University. Enhancing Child Safety & Online Technologies: Final Report of the Internet Safety Technical Task Force. 2008. Smith, A. “Teens and Online Stranger Contact.” Pew Internet & American Life Project. Oct 14, 2007. (http://www.pewinternet.org/Reports/2007/A.aspx). Subrahmanyam, K., and Smahel, D. Digital Youth: The Role of Media in Development. 2011, Springer, New York. Ybarra, M., and Mitchell, K. J. “How Risky Are Social Networking Sites? A Comparison of Places Online Where Youth Sexual Solicitation and Harassement Occurs.” Pediatrics (2008). 121(2), pp. e350-e357. Wolak, K., Mitchell, K., and Finkelhor, D. “Online Victimization of Youth: Five Years Later.” 2006. National Center for Missing & Exploited Children Bulletin. (http://www.unh.edu/ccrc/pdf/CV138.pdf). SAFE ONLINE TALK / TIP SHEET / DIGITAL LITERACY AND CITIZENSHIP / REV DATE 2015 www.commonsense.org | CREATIVE COMMONS: ATTRIBUTION-NONCOMMERCIAL-SHAREALIKE 2 consejos para familias Common Sense opina sobre las conversaciones en línea seguras Escuela media ¿Cuál es el problema? A los niños y adolescentes les encanta conectarse con otros en línea. La mayoría de los jóvenes hablan con sus amigos y familiares en línea, en lugar de hacerlo con desconocidos. Pero como padre, es posible que le preocupe que un desconocido con malas intenciones pueda contactar a su hijo. El denominado "comportamiento depredador por Internet" se da cuando los adultos contactan a niños o adolescentes por Internet con el fin de "adiestrarlos" para mantener relaciones sexuales inadecuadas. No obstante, muchos expertos han concluido que la amenaza más real a la que están expuestos los adolescentes por Internet son las “propuestas sexuales”. Esto significa incitar a alguien a hablar de sexo, brindar información sexual de índole personal o enviar fotos o videos con contenido sexual. (No siempre implica hacer una propuesta sexual.) Por ejemplo, los adolescentes pueden recibir solicitudes o mensajes inadecuados de extraños o conocidos. Sin embargo, contrariamente a la creencia popular: •Los adolescentes (de entre 13 y 17 años) corren más riesgo que los “pre-adolescentes” o niños de recibir propuestas sexuales por Internet •La mayoría de las propuestas sexuales por Internet provienen de otros adolescentes o de adultos jóvenes (de entre 18 y 25 años) •Los adultos que hacen propuestas sexuales a adolescentes suelen ser francos acerca de la edad y de las intenciones que verdaderamente tienen (Subrahmanyam y Smahel, 2011). ¿Por qué es un tema importante? Cuando los adolescentes se desorientan y no tienen los cuidados que deben tener por Internet, pueden encontrarse inmersos en situaciones negativas sin darse cuenta. El atractivo de las relaciones de este tipo no es sorprendente, particularmente, cuando se trata de adolescentes que ya son vulnerables. Los solicitantes pueden elevarles la autoestima con halagos y atención. Una vez que los adolescentes quedan involucrados en estas relaciones, pueden acceder a hacer cosas que normalmente no harían porque existe un desequilibrio de poder entre ellos y el solicitante. Por lo general, pasa mucho tiempo hasta que se dan cuenta de que están siendo manipulados. Common Sense dice Converse sobre el comportamiento responsable en línea. Analice con quién está bien conversar y sobre qué está bien conversar. Recuerde que muchos adolescentes están empezando a experimentar el coqueteo y las relaciones. Esto es normal. Pero coquetear en línea con extraños o conocidos siempre es peligroso. Coquetear con alguien puede desencadenar conversaciones o solicitudes inapropiadas. Además, puede que los adolescentes se confundan y crean que están en una relación sentimental seria con alguien que realmente no conocen. Ambas situaciones pueden hacer que los adolescentes se sientan incómodos y manipulados. Bloquear, ignorar o salir. La mayoría de los adolescentes sabe cómo deshacerse de los contactos no deseados. Aliente este comportamiento. Asegúrese de que su hijo se sienta seguro hablando con un adulto de confianza. Si ocurre algo extraño o inapropiado, los adolescentes deben saber que no se meterán en problemas si hablan con usted o con otro adulto de confianza. ALFABETIZACIÓN Y CIUDADANÍA DIGITAL EN UNA CULTURA CONECTADA © 2012 www.commonsense.org 1 Hable con su hijo acerca de las relaciones saludables. Para algunos adolescentes, puede que sea difícil reconocer que otras personas los están manipulando, en especial, para aquellos que desean experimentar o demostrar su madurez. Dialogue acerca de los factores que hacen a las relaciones saludables y porqué los adolescentes no deben poner en riesgo esos valores. Busque signos de advertencia. ¿Su hijo parece estar retraído, pasa horas interminables en línea o parece estar ocultando algo? Los adolescentes que se embarcan en relaciones inapropiadas por Internet suelen dar signos de advertencia. Si cree que puede estar pasando esto, ¡pregúntele! Fuentes The Berkman Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University. Enhancing Child Safety & Online Technologies: Final Report of the Internet Safety Technical Task Force. 2008. Smith, A. “Teens and Online Stranger Contact.” Pew Internet & American Life Project. 14 de octubre de 2007. (http://www.pewinternet.org/Reports/2007/A.aspx). Subrahmanyam, K. y Smahel, D. Digital Youth: The Role of Media in Development. 2011, Springer, New York. Ybarra, M. y Mitchell, K. J. “How Risky Are Social Networking Sites? A Comparison of Places Online Where Youth Sexual Solicitation and Harassement Occurs.” Pediatrics (2008). 121(2), pp. e350-e357. Wolak, K., Mitchell, K. y Finkelhor, D. “Online Victimization of Youth: Five Years Later.” 2006. National Center for Missing & Exploited Children Bulletin. (http://www.unh.edu/ccrc/pdf/CV138.pdf). ALFABETIZACIÓN Y CIUDADANÍA DIGITAL EN UNA CULTURA CONECTADA © 2012 www.commonsense.org 2 Parent Resource Center Winter-Spring 2016 Event Schedule All events are held at the LCPS Administrative Building 21000 Education Court, Ashburn, 20148 Events are canceled when schools are closed or after school activities canceled. Call 571-252-2185 or go to www.lcps.org/prc to register and for links to event flyers. Leisure Skills for Students on the Autism Spectrum A presentation for parents on developing leisure skills in the older child Wednesday, April 13, 9-11 am PATH to Employment Panel presentation by public agencies about how and when to access services to ensure a timely and smooth transition to employment for students with disabilities Thursday, April 14, 6:30-8:00 pm Developing Play Skills and Building Communication through Play For young children with Autism and related developmental disabilities Wednesday, May 11, 9-11 am If, due to a disability, you need accommodations or an interpreter call the Parent Resource Center at least five business days before the event at 571-252-2185. Centro de Recursos para Padres Horario de Eventos de Invierno-Primavera 2016 Todos los eventos ocurrirán en el Edificio Administrativo de LCPS: 21000 Education Court, Ashburn, 20148 Los eventos son cancelados si las escuelas están cerradas o las actividades después de la escuela han sido canceladas. Llamar al 571-252-2185 o ir a www.lcps.org/prc para matricularse, los títulos están ligados al evento de su volante. Habilidades para el Tiempo Libre para Estudiantes en el Espectro del Autismo Una presentación para padres en como desarrollar las habilidades durante el tiempo libre de su niño mayor Miércoles, 13 de abril, 9-11 am (sesión por la mañana) CAMINO hacia el Empleo Presentación de panel de agencias públicas acerca de cómo y cuándo acceder servicios para garantizar una transición a tiempo y sin problemas para el empleo de estudiantes con discapacidades Jueves, 14 de abril, 6:30-8:00 pm Desarrollando Habilidades de Juego y Construyendo Comunicación a través del Juego Para niños menores con autismo y discapacidades de desarrollo relacionadas Diseñado para niños que están comenzando a adquirir o que no han desarrollado aun habilidades de juego Miércoles, 11 de mayo, 9-11 am (sesión por la mañana) Si debido a una discapacidad, usted necesita ayuda o a un intérprete, llamar al 571-252-2185 5 días laborables previos al evento. Sterling Middle School April 2016 Short Stops Creative projects Encourage your tween to think outside the box for school projects. Approaching them in interesting ways can motivate him to work hard and create a finished product he’s proud of. Perhaps he’ll include a “Wanted” ad with a paper on an endangered species or a model to accompany a report on an archaeological site. Spotlight on effort When your middle grader brings home a graded test or assignment, first ask what she learned rather than what grade she got. You’ll send the message that it’s not just her grades that count— it’s also the effort she puts into her education and what she gets out of it. Plus, her answer may lead to an interesting discussion. Dressed for success Warmer weather means your child will start wearing lighter clothing. Together, go over the dress code in his student handbook so he knows what’s allowed. For instance, maybe he can’t wear “muscle shirts,” flipflops, or baseball caps in the building. Worth quoting “Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known.” Carl Sagan Just for fun Q: What do you call an old snowman? A: Water! © 2016 Resources for Educators, a division of CCH Incorporated Agustin Martinez, Principal Updating the rules As your child gets older, does it seem like the rules you have don’t fit anymore? Adjusting them can give her room to gain independence while still keeping her safe. Try these ideas. Pick priorities As kids get older, they tend to push boundaries. Some rules will be nonnegotiable, such as no drinking or smoking, and showing respect for others. Beyond those, decide what really matters to you at this age— and stick to the rules you set. For example, you might expect your tween to keep her bedroom neat and be okay with her wearing light makeup. On the other hand, another family may not consider a tidy room a priority but feel strongly about a no-makeup rule. Get her input Middle graders want to feel like they have some control over their lives. Involve your youngster in rule revisions. Perhaps she wants to decide when to do her chores as long as they’re finished by a certain time. Make it clear you’ll think over her ideas but that you have the final say. She’ll be more likely to cooperate if you listen, even if she doesn’t like your decision. Let her earn privileges Try granting more freedom when your child proves she can handle it. Say she wants her own smartphone or tablet. If you’re open to the idea, have her show that she can follow your Internet rules on the family computer or your phone. When you see that she chats only with people she knows, asks permission before downloading apps, and sticks to time limits, you could consider letting her have her own device. Dinnertime learning Put learning on the dinner table with these fun suggestions: ■ Hang a map in the kitchen. Talk about where your food is from, and point to the countries or states. Discuss why you think the food is grown or produced there (climate, altitude). ■ Play show-and-tell. Family members can take turns bringing interesting or unusual objects to the table. Set the item in the center, and say what you think it is, where it came from, or what it could be used for. ■ Discuss your day at work. Your child may hear how you managed multiple priorities or handled computer glitches, for example. He’ll learn from your experiences — and learn about your world, too. Middle Years April 2016 • Page 2 The “write” subject Cite evidence. Strong writing skills are essential in every class. Here are ways your middle grader can do well when writing in all classes. Use specific vocabulary. Every subject has its own “language,” and your child should include the proper terms in his writing. Encourage him to incorporate the vocabulary, and even the verbs, in his notes and textbooks. In a science lab report, for instance, he might say, “I observed…” instead of “I saw…” Or he should write “numerator” to refer to the top number of a fraction when explaining his math answer. Q & Parent Build a to family team Parent O U R P U R P O S E To provide busy parents with practical ideas that promote school success, parent involvement, and more effective parenting. Resources for Educators, a division of CCH Incorporated 128 N. Royal Avenue • Front Royal, VA 22630 540-636-4280 • [email protected] www.rfeonline.com ISSN 1540-5540 © 2016 Resources for Educators, a division of CCH Incorporated Tip: Good grammar and proofreading are key to polished writing. Remind your youngster to double-check punctuation, capitalization, and spelling. A rocky friendship ■ Q My daughter has a friend who doesn’t always treat her well. She likes hanging out with the girl but says she’s bossy and makes hurtful jokes. How can I help my child handle this? A When I remarried, my wife and I each brought a son and a daughter into our new family. The kids are different ages and go to different schools, and they didn’t seem to have anything in common. But in fact they share something very special—our new family traditions! We have created our own rituals for birthdays, holidays, and other special days. For example, on New Year’s Eve, our family picks one thing we all want to add to our lives in the coming year. This year we decided to be more active, so we took up Rollerblading. And on each person’s birthday, we set up a treasure hunt that leads to a gift, and everyone writes a nice comment about that family member on a balloon. We have a lot of fun, and I love that we’re creating special memories to share with our new family. Suggest that your middle schooler use information from course materials (textbooks, teacher handouts, recommended websites) to make sure his writing is accurate and credible. In a persuasive paragraph for social studies, for instance, he can weave in facts to back up his opinion. Or in an essay about an author, he could cite lines from her books. A The next time your daughter complains ■ about her friend, ask what she gets out of the friendship. Explain that there’s no such thing as a perfect friend — but in a friendship worth keeping, the good should outweigh the bad. Suggest that she list pros and cons to help sort out her feelings. If she wants to save the friendship, encourage her to talk to the girl. You could help her think of conversation starters such as, “Lately you’ve been deciding what we do. Let’s take turns,” or “It hurts my feelings when you joke like that.” A good friend should be willing to listen and work on the relationship. If things don’t change, your child will need to decide if she wants this person in her life or if she’s better off concentrating on other friends. Reporting—from the past If your youngster could travel back in time and report on the Boston Tea Party or the Industrial Revolution, what would she say or “tweet”? She can dig deeper into history class topics by pretending she’s a news reporter. Try these ideas. Breaking news! Suggest that your middle grader write a headline in her notes for each event she studies. (“Colonists dump tea to protest taxes.”) She could add headlines for follow-up stories as she learns more. (“Protestors declare tea-drinking unpatriotic.”) When she finishes the unit, let her deliver a newscast for you. Tweets and hashtags Encourage your child to write tweets about people, places, and events. She’ll need to decide what’s most important as she tries to fit her tweet into 140 characters. (“Mass production & faster travel = big changes coming to America!”) Idea: For more fun, she might incorporate clever hashtags into her tweets, perhaps “#railroadsrock” and “#seatoshiningsea” for the Transcontinental Railroad. Sterling Middle School Abril de 2016 Notas Breves Proyectos creativos Anime a su hijo a que piense con originalidad cuando haga proyectos de la escuela. Acometerlos de maneras interesantes puede motivarlo a trabajar duro y a crear un producto final del que se sienta orgulloso. Podría incluir un cartel de “Se busca” en un trabajo sobre una especie amenazada o una maqueta para acompañar un informe sobre un yacimiento arqueológico. El esfuerzo en la mira Cuando su hija traiga a casa un examen o un trabajo corregidos, pregúntele primero qué aprendió en lugar de qué nota sacó. Le dará a entender que no sólo importan las notas, también cuenta el esfuerzo que pone en su educación y lo que consigue. Y además su respuesta puede llevar a una conversación interesante. Vestidos para el éxito Al llegar el tiempo más cálido su hijo empezará a usar ropa más ligera. Comenten juntos el código de vestimenta que aparece en el manual del estudiante para que sepa qué está permitido. Por ejemplo, quizá no pueda llevar dentro de la escuela camisetas sin mangas, chanclas o gorras de béisbol. Vale la pena citar “En algún lugar algo espera a ser conocido”. Carl Sagan Simplemente cómico P: ¿Qué nombre le das a un viejo muñeco de nieve? R: ¡Agua! © 2016 Resources for Educators, a division of CCH Incorporated Agustin Martinez, Principal Normas al día Según se va haciendo mayor su hija, ¿tienen la impresión de que las normas se le han quedado pequeñas? Al ajustarlas pueden darle el espacio que necesita para ganar independencia sin perder en seguridad. Ponga a prueba estas ideas. Elija prioridades Los niños suelen empujar límites al crecer. Algunas normas no serán negociables, por ejemplo no beber alcohol o fumar y respetar a los demás. Aparte de esas normas, decida lo que realmente le importa a usted en referencia a la edad de su hija y siga a rajatabla las normas que ponga. Por ejemplo, usted se espera que su hija mantenga ordenado su cuarto y no le importa que use maquillaje ligero. Pero en otra familia el cuarto ordenado puede no ser una prioridad y en cambio no tolerar el maquillaje en absoluto. Pídale opinión Los estudiantes de la escuela media quieren tener cierto control sobre sus vidas. Implique a su hija en las revisiones de las normas. Quizá quiera decidir cuándo va a hacer sus tareas de casa siempre que las termine a cierta hora. Explíquele con claridad que tendrá en cuenta sus ideas pero que usted tiene la última palabra. Cooperará con más ganas si usted la escucha, aunque no le guste su decisión. Permita que adquiera privilegios Dele algo más de libertad cuando su hija demuestre que puede usarla bien. Digamos que quiere su propio teléfono inteligente o tableta. Si a usted le parece bien la idea, procure que demuestre que puede seguir las normas de uso de Internet en la computadora familiar o en su teléfono. Cuando vea que se comunica sólo con gente que conoce, pide permiso antes de bajarse aplicaciones y se adhiere a los límites de tiempo, usted podría permitirle que tenga su propio aparato. Aprender a la hora de cenar Aprendan a la hora de la cena con estas divertidas sugerencias: ■ Cuelguen un mapa en la cocina. Hablen de dónde vienen los alimentos y señalen los países o los estados. Comenten por qué creen que esos alimentos se producen allí (clima, altitud). ■ Jueguen a mostrar y contar. Los miembros de su familia por turnos pueden traer objetos interesantes o poco comunes a la mesa. Coloquen el objeto en el medio y digan qué creen que es, de dónde procede y para qué se podría usar. ■ Comenten su jornada laboral. Su hijo podría escuchar cómo hizo frente a varias prioridades o solucionó fallos de la computadora, por ejemplo. Aprenderá de sus experiencias y también aprenderá sobre su mundo. Middle Years Abril de 2016 • Página 2 Para escribir bien Cita evidencia. Sugiérale a su hijo que use la información de sus materiales (libros de texto, fotocopias de los maestros, sitios web recomendados) para cerciorarse de que su escritura es exacta y verosímil. En un párrafo persuasivo de estudios sociales, por ejemplo, podría intercalar información para respaldar su opinión. O bien en un trabajo sobre una escritora podría añadir citas de sus libros. En cada clase es esencial tener buenas dotes para la escritura. He aquí maneras de que su hijo escriba bien en todas sus clases. Usa vocabulario específico. Cada materia tiene su propio “idioma” y su hijo debería usar terminología apropiada en su escritura. Anímelo a incorporar ese vocabulario, incluso los verbos, en sus apuntes y libros de texto. En un informe para el laboratorio de ciencias, por ejemplo, podría decir “Observé…” en lugar de “Vi…”. O bien debería referirse a la parte superior de una fracción como “numerador” cuando explique su respuesta de matemáticas. De padre Equipo a padre familiar Cuando me volví a casar, mi esposa y yo contribuimos con un hijo y una hija cada uno a nuestra nueva familia. Los niños tienen edades distintas y van a escuelas distintas, y parece que no tienen nada en común. Pero lo cierto es que comparten algo muy especial: ¡nuestras nuevas tradiciones familiares! Hemos creado nuevos ritos para celebrar cumpleaños, fiestas y otros días especiales. Por ejemplo, en Nochevieja nuestra familia elige una cosa que todos queremos añadir a nuestra vida el año que empieza. Este años decidimos ser más activos así que empezamos a practicar patinaje en línea. Y para el cumpleaños de cada persona organizamos una búsqueda del tesoro que conduce hasta un regalo y todo el mundo escribe un comentario agradable en un globo sobre ese miembro de la familia. Nos divertimos mucho y a mí me alegra que creemos recuerdos especiales para compartir con nuestra nueva familia. N U E S T R A F I N A L I D A D Proporcionar a los padres ideas prácticas que promuevan el éxito escolar, la participación de los padres y un mejor entendimiento entre padres e hijos. Resources for Educators, una filial de CCH Incorporated 128 N. Royal Avenue • Front Royal, VA 22630 540-636-4280 • [email protected] www.rfeonline.com ISSN 1540-5559 © 2016 Resources for Educators, a division of CCH Incorporated Consejo: Usar buena gramática y corregir los borradores son elementos clave para escribir con elegancia. Recuérdele a su hijo que repase la puntuación, las mayúsculas y la ortografía. P Una amistad inestable & ■ P Mi hija tiene una amiga que no siempre la trata bien. Le gusta estar con la R niña, pero dice que es mandona y que hace bromas hirientes. ¿Cómo puedo ayudar a mi hija a que haga frente a esta situación? R La próxima vez que su hija se queje de su ■ amiga pregúntele qué provecho saca de esa amistad. Explíquele que la amistad perfecta no existe, pero que para que valga la pena conservar una amistad lo bueno debe pesar más que lo malo. Sugiérale que haga una lista de los pros y los contras para ayudarla a organizar sus sentimientos. Si quiere rescatar esa amistad, anímela a que hable con esa niña. Podría ayudarla a pensar en modos de empezar la conversación como “Últimamente decides siempre qué hacemos. Vamos a turnarnos” o “Me hace daño cuando bromeas así”. Una buena amiga debería estar dispuesta a escuchar y a esforzarse por la relación. Si las cosas no cambian, su hija debe decidir si quiere a esa persona en su vida o si le vale más la pena concentrarse en otros amigos. Informando desde el pasado Si su hija pudiera viajar hacia atrás en el tiempo e informar sobre el Boston Tea Party o la Revolución Industrial, ¿qué diría o “tuitearía”? Puede profundizar en sus temas de la clase de historia imaginando que es una reportera. Pongan a prueba estas ideas. ¡Últimas noticias! Sugiérale a su hija que escriba un titular en sus apuntes para cada evento que estudia. (“Los colonos botan el té para protestar por los impuestos”.) Podría añadir titulares para profundizar en las historias conforme vaya aprendiendo sobre el tema. (“Los manifestantes declararon que beber té es antipatriótico”.) Cuando termine la unidad, pídale que le presente a usted un programa de noticias. Tuits y hashtags Anime a su hija a que escriba tuits sobre gente, sitios y acontecimientos. Tendrá que decidir qué es lo más importante al intentar encajar su tuit en 140 caracteres. (“Producción en masa & viaje más rápido = ¡grandes cambios llegan a EEUU!”) Idea: Para divertirse aún más podría incorporar hashtags ingeniosos en sus tuits, por ejemplo “#railroadsrock” y “#seatoshiningsea” para el Ferrocarril Transcontinental. Sterling Middle School Pioneer Pride – Breaking Barriers Enter to Learn – Leave to Serve A Community Committed to Excellence Sterling Middle School 201 W. Holly Avenue Sterling, VA 20164