Dear EMS Families!
THANK YOU for those families that were able to make it to Open House. We know that 5-6 PM wasn’t ideal and do recognize many families probably couldn’t make it because of the time. I spoke about this last night but want to reiterate this because this message is so important to me.
We’ve had a strong start to the year by setting expectations and reinforcing respectful, responsible behaviors under our motto, “Many voices, One Pack.” Last Friday our Teen Truth guest speaker, Brandon McCall, made the point that students are the key to change, and their words have the power to influence each other even more than adults do, especially in their teen years. Negative words can cause people to hide behind masks, pretend they’re fine, or make poor choices—while positive voices can build connection, confidence, and belonging. Our challenge is to create a school where students feel safe to take off their masks, try new things, ask for help, and know they are accepted. We believe in empowering students to lead through involvement, so we encourage them to explore their interests—or even start something new. The more involved they are, the more they will feel empowered, even in little things like spirit week!
Spirit Week
Next week is Spirit Week and Penny Wars! We are excited to see what students have in store for us. My favorite day is always Comfy Cozy Day so I’m looking forward to Monday! Tuesday is Dress Like Your Dream Job…my dream job would be leading an outdoor school (I’m really not making that up) so I will be dressed for the outdoors! Wednesday I will be raiding my son’s closet for Boots and Buckle Day, maybe his Cowboy Hat too. For Battle of the Bands, I’m going to need to get creative on that one. I wish I would have kept my big hair band shirts from my middle school days! Loved me some Bon Jovi and Poison back then. Friday, I will be representing all three grade levels. We love creativity; we just ask if students use face paint, they have to keep it to half of their face, and whatever they do can’t be disruptive to the learning environment so no drum sets please! Keep in mind students can’t bring large, crazy items on the bus.
Penny Wars
As for Penny Wars, our PTSO will be present in the mornings collecting money in the big jugs. Parents can also donate using a QR code. I can’t say enough how excited I am to have a PTSO formally up and running again. Yes, fundraising is a part of that group but know that even if we had nothing, I believe in the power of schools and parents working together! Let’s make big things happen! We need you!
Happy Friday!
Mrs. Richter
Many Voices, ONE pack!
