Middle School September Newsletter (22–23)
Hey there, Middle School!
January 1st is my favorite day of the year, but the first day of fall is a very close second. Admittedly, a big reason for that is all the glorious pumpkin, maple, and pecan treats spilling out of the aisles of Trader Joe’s. But, what I also appreciate about both times of year is the knowledge that a new beginning is here for the taking.
This upcoming season reminds me of the beauty and spaciousness that can come with change. Seeing the way nature welcomes transformation, to the way it simply lets go has been a lesson for me in the past; I fully expect it will be again this year.
When I see what students are grappling with in classrooms, join in on conversations in the Cafe, and crush it on the basketball court, I feel extremely grateful for the opportunity to see your students grow over the course of their years here at ECMS. Today, I just wanted to say thank you for trusting us. Thank you for allowing us to bear witness to yet another stunning transformation.
Until next time,
Jaleah
What's new at Middle School?
Half Day Dismissal
Friday, Sept. 23 is a half day and students will be dismissed at 11:50 a.m.
Block Zero
Block Zero kicked off this week. You can check out this quarter’s course offerings here. The password is ECS123.
In Case You Missed It
Students Place in Startable Competition
Congratulations to all of the students who participated in Startable with Mr. Stehouwer last spring! Startable is a teen entrepreneur program where groups develop a product idea and put together a business pitch video for judges. Check out the results.
Alma Reminders
Alma, our learning management system, allows you to check your student’s class schedule, contact staff, and review grading information. I highly encourage families to set aside time once per week to review grades and the status of assignment submissions together. If you are new to ECS, check your inbox (or spam folder) for an email from notifications@getalma.com sent on August 5th for instructions on how to activate your account. If you are returning and did not previously activate your account or forgot your password, you can request a link to reset your password by emailing helpdesk@ecspgh.org.
Last Month’s Hawk Highlights
6th Grade created profiles outside to share with their peers to learn more about each other.
Important Dates this Month
09/5: No School–Labor Day!
09/7: PCO Volunteer and Activity Fair at 6 p.m. at Intermediate School
09/13: Out of School Activities Fair from 6–7:30 p.m.
09/23: Hawk Day: Get decked out in your teams’ colors!
09/23: Half Day: Dismissal at 11:50 a.m.
09/26: Shana Tova to all who celebrate Rosh Hashanah; no school for students or staff
09/27: Back to School Night-5–7 p.m.
10/03: High School Picture Day
10/05: No School - Yom Kippur