Is Your Child a Bully?

That's a tough question but let's face it for every child that is being bullied, there is at least one child who is the bully. That child could be yours. As a parent, I know this is a tough realization. So what do you do if your child is the bully?

One of the most important things that you can do as a parent is set a positive example. How do you communicate when things do not go your way? Often times, children mirror the behavior that they see in the adults in their lives.

Additionally, get to know your child and his or her friends. It's ok to be a little nosy! You may be surprised to see/hear the information being shared and the language being used on Facebook or while texting. Sometimes the kids call it "playing" or "joking" but you may see that it is clear that what is being said or posted could be hurtful to others. Kids need boundaries and it is up to the adults to set those boundaries and be firm, fair and conisistent about setting rules and even consequences.

Finally, get help. Our school is a valuable resource! You may also have other community support with family, friends or church members. Regardless of the source, get the help needed. When I asked my S.W.A.T. Team members why bullying happens, they say that it is about power and fitting in. Talk about these issues with your child and as always, let me know how we can help!

Spring is in the Air!

After a successful basketball season to include Girls City Championship, we are ready for track! Congratulations Lady Hawks!! Last year our boys and girls track teams brought home the city championship and we look forward to another great season. Check out the school website for meet dates and locations and come cheer our teams to victory!

Also this spring, we begin the process of registering new students for next year. I am super excited about the new course offerings available through our Technology Magnet Program. Williams Middle School is the only school in our district to offer an Advanced Math Program that begins with Pre-Algebra in 6th grade. We now have online registration and you still have time to take advantage of this unique learning opportunity.

As always, I love to hear from you. Drop by anytime and Go Hawks!!

Calendar Updates

As January comes to an end, I wanted to give you a few calendar updates. Due to the recent snow days students will now attend school on February 21st, April 11 & 12th and May 23rd & 24th. Any additional weather days will be added to the end of the school year. Other dates to remember are:

• ThinkLink assessment will take place during the week of February 7th
• Track Tryouts - February 8-10th
• Progress Reports - February 9th
• Cheerleading Tryouts - February 14-18th
• Black History Program February 24th & 25th
• Teacher Duty Free Lunch - February 25th (Volunteers needed)

Of course, you are always invited to visit with us! If you have not volunteered with us this year, it's not too late. Simply call our office and we will take care of you! Also, please spread the word that our 2011-2012 application process for your Technology Magnet Program is online. April 1st is the deadline to apply. Check out our website for details!

Wanted: Parent Volunteers!

Consider this your personal invitation to join the Williams Middle School Family! We are actively seeking volunteers to work with our teachers, staff and students in a variety of capacities. So please call our office if you are interested in the following opportunities:

• Hawk Time Classroom Assistant
• Duty-Free Lunch
• Morning Duty
• Afternoon Duty
• Office Assistant
• Reading Tutor
• Math Tutor

Also, don't be surprised if our office staff propositions you about spending some time with us! By volunteering with us, you will demonstrate to your student that you value their education. When schools and families partner, students achieve at a higher level and schools achieve greatness! Join our team! Just give us a call and we will sign you up...Go Hawks!!!!

'Tis the Season!

As we begin this busy and often stressful holiday season, I want to let each of you know how very thankful I am to have the opportunity to work with your children! This year has brought some new challenges and I am extremely proud of the team work and positive attitudes that have been displayed by our teachers, students, parents and community. I am a true believer that we choose our attitude. One of my favorite Chinese Proverbs states: “To enjoy good health, to bring true happiness to one’s family, to bring peace to all, one must first discipline and control one’s own mind.”

How do you do that? Prayer works for me. I also believe in acknowledging and managing my stress. Many people see the holiday season as one of the most stressful periods of the year. Although, that is not my perception, I can certainly see how others could view it as such. Crowded shopping centers, parties, cold weather, shorter days…the list could go on!

In the words of our own, Kysha Garrett, “I’m about solutions!” I shop online and only party with people I like! I drink coffee or hot chocolate and have a true appreciation for a beautiful 5pm sunset. What about you?

During the holiday season, I hope that everyone has an opportunity to enjoy the company of close friends and family. As you are doing so, please remember those who are less fortunate and our men and women of the Armed Forces who are serving overseas. Happy Thanksgiving to each of you!

HAPPY VETERANS DAY!

From our family to yours, we wish you a very Happy Veterans Day. Thank you to all those who serve and who have fought and stood for the freedoms that we so often take for granted. Many blessings to all our veterans and their families! We honor you and salute you for your courage and for the selfless sacrifices you have made for the sake of "liberty and justice for all!"

1st Annual Rummage Sale

Donations are now being accepted for the Williams Middle School PTSA 1st Annual Rummage Sale. It will be held at the school on Saturday November 6th from 7am to 1pm. All proceeds will go to our PTSA so with every purchase, you are helping our kids and teachers! Please bring your donations to the school this week. Call our office for more details or to volunteer to work. We thank you for your continued support!