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BACK to Grapevine HOME | Shen HOME MIDDLE SCHOOL
Posted on April 30, 2008 If an 8th grader is in jeopardy of failing a class what is the procedure for the moving up ceremony? Do they go to the ceremony then summer school? When would you find out if they are going to pass or not?
All Grade 8 students are invited to participate in the Moving Up Ceremony. To find out if you are not going to pass a class, contact your teacher.
Posted on April 30, 2008 In past answers it was said that the sixth grade technology course is 10 weeks this year, but next year, it will be twenty weeks. The course is already twenty weeks this year. How many weeks will the technology course be next year if the exploratory LOTE course is eliminated?
Grade 6 technology in the 2007-08 school year takes place over a 20-week period, taught alternate days. Therefore the students receive "10 weeks of technology. In 2008-09, grade 6 students will have technology for 40 weeks, alternate days which is "20 weeks of technology.
Posted on April 30, 2008 Is there a reason the eight grade dance is not a semi-formal as it has been previous years? They deserve something special!
Students are encouraged to make it a special event and dress nicely for the grade 8 dance.
Posted on April 30, 2008 My daughter wants to know if you could bring an author to Gowana as a guest speaker?
Suggestions for authors should be made to the middle school librarians . Authors are booked with PTA arts and education fun
Posted on April 30, 2008 The Acadia Daily Announcements Link is a great idea and helps parents keep up with things. However, it is only good if it is up to date. Today is April 25, and the page that is posted is April 8! Not of much help, since the majority of the "news" at this point, is old. Is it being maintained? And, if not, then shouldn't the link be removed?
There was a change in the person who posts this each day and the new person had to be trained so there was unfortunately some down time. It is now back up with each day's announcements.
Posted on April 30, 2008 Is there a field trip on May 2nd for Acadia middle school team 8-2?
On May 2nd, Respect Day activities will be held for most teams at Acadia and Team 8-2 is going out to a movie and then lunch - where they will have a guest speaker.
Posted on April 30, 2008 Are water bottles allowed in the middle schools?
No, unless it gets dangerously hot.
Posted on April 22, 2008 Do you know what the theme is for the 8th grade semi-formal yet? A lot of people I know are wondering so that they could get the appropriate dress for the occasion.
On Friday, May 9, 2008, the Gowana Student Council will be holding the Tri-Building Eighth Grade Hollywood Theme Dance. The dance will take place in the Gowana Green Gym. The dance will be from 7-9:30pm. Refreshments will be sold. Please drop off and pick up your child promptly at the Gowana Green Gym entrance. The cost of the dance is $5. TICKETS WILL BE PRESOLD DURING YOUR SON/DAUGHTERS LUNCH PERIOD FROM MONDAY, APRIL 28 TO WEDNESDAY, MAY 7TH. TICKETS WILL ALSO BE AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR THE NIGHT OF THE DANCE FOR $7. In order to attend the dance, you must be a Shenendehowa student and present for the entire school day. This is not a formal dance; the dress code that is enforced at school will apply. You do not need to dress up to attend; you may if you wish. Please refrain from the use of limousine transportation. If you have any questions, please contact Vanessa Alderman at 881-0460 x 51003 or Caryn Dominick at 881-0463.
Posted on April 22, 2008 What should the students wear to the Gowana, 8th grade recognition night, May 5? Nice everyday school clothes or dress up? Thanks!
The Gowana Grade 8 recognition evening is June 5th, not May 5th. Attire should be appropriate for an evening event where each student walks across the stage to be recognized by parents , teachers and other students. Students are encouraged to dress nicely, most boys wear collared shirts and pants and most girls wear skirts or dresses.
Posted on April 22, 2008 Is Gowana middle school going to get new technology such as PDA's or Smartboards in each classroom?
There is a district technology committee working on recommendations for adding smart boards and LCD projectors and other equipment to classrooms across the district. We are working to provide up to date technology to promote instruction.
Posted on April 22, 2008 When will the Gowana students be receiving their spring pictures?
Spring Pictures are taken by Lifetouch and there is another picture day scheduled for May 14th. Contact the PTA for more information.
Posted on April 21, 2008 Why do Acadia and Gowana have libraries but Koda does not? This does not seem fair to these students.
Originally, all three middle schools shared two libraries. Now there is a library in all three middle schools.
Posted on April 21, 2008 How do I know if my child made honor roll?
It is listed on the bottom of the report card.
Posted on April 8, 2008 Is it true that there are only two computer labs for the three middle schools main academic teachers to use (Language arts, math, social studies, science, foreign language and reading)?
This year, the district opened a third computer lab. There are now three computer labs in addition to the computers available in each of the three library's.
Posted on April 8, 2008 Where will the Middle School graduation be?
All middle school moving up ceremonies are in the High School East auditorium. Koda is on June 12, Acadia is June 13, Gowana is June 5
Posted on April 8, 2008 How come we only have three minutes to get to classes when high school students get five????!!!
Students have 4 minutes to pass between classes and the middle schools are smaller.
Posted on April 8, 2008 I also heard that in middle school students have to pick between orchestra and chorus and if they want to do both, they lose their lunchtime (?) This doesn't encourage their ability to participate in multiple offerings, but forces them to make a choice. Please advise on the current policy.
Information on the music program can be found in the program of studies which is distributed to all grade 5 parents/ students in May. Grade 6 students may select one performing group as an elective and may choose to add chorus second semester if they are in good academic standing and schedule permits. Grade 7 and 8 students may only select one performing group . They may join the extra-curricular groups or drama clubs for additional opportunities in the arts.
Posted on March 28, 2008 Why aren't there sufficient gym lockers in the Middle school?
The Gowana Green Gym is getting new lockers. It was originally designed to focus on daily physical education needs and not have so many wardrobe or street lockers. The new lockers will improve the situation.
Posted on March 28, 2008 What are some of the few awards, my child can receive at the middle school graduation. Will every student get an award?
It is a moving up ceremony, not a graduation. Awards are presented to some students in each building in recognition of academic achievement, good citizenship, and attendance. Every student receives a moving up certificate.
Posted on March 28, 2008 Is it true that the eighth grade trip to Boston is on the same day as their Semi-dance?
The grade 8 tri-building dance is scheduled for Friday, May 9, the Gowana Boston trip is May 8.
Posted on March 28, 2008 The parking lot for Acadia and Koda Middle Schools is limited, and is not large enough for all who work and visit these buildings. Extra parking is available next to this lot, on the other side of the access road, however this is unpaved. What are the plans to pave this area? It is an ice hazard in the winter, and a mud bowl in the rain.
The District spent money on a new lighted parking lot at Acadia that is generally half full at any given time. The areas that are being referred to as “extra parking” are not designated parking areas. These were grass at one time, but due to constant "parking on the grass", the grass has died. Due to the fact that we do realize people will park almost anywhere, the district put crushed stone in so people’s cars will not sink. Parking and paving is evaluated regularly by the Facilities committee.
Posted on March 27, 2008 How will 6th-graders be introduced to the four languages offered at Shen, if the 6th-grade LOTE program is eliminated?
The current grade 6 students have made their selections for LOTE for next year. In future years, the LOTE department will be looking at other ways to provide this information to students so that they can make an informed selection.
Posted on March 27, 2008 Why are the daily announcements for the Gowana Middle School posted so inconsistently?
The Gowana announcements are posted by the main office on the Gowana webpage, however, there are some days when there are technical difficulties. They will soon be posted on the parent portal.
Posted on March 18, 2008 Why is there still no security camera in the instrument storage room in the middle school when there are still pencil cases, bows, and other supplies being stolen?
The middle school administration is currently addressing the instrumental storage area by trying to free up more monitor coverage from all three buildings.
Posted on March 18, 2008 Is the middle school presenting a musical this year? I haven't heard or seen anything about it.
The Middle School musical will be on March 27th, 28th and 29th at 7:30 at HSW in the auditorium. It's "Willy Wonka Junior" and tickets are $6 at the door.
Posted on March 18, 2008 Is the Koda Jazz Band going to be eliminated next year? If so, why?
Jazz lives at Koda and the Koda Jazz Band will definitely continue.
Posted on March 18, 2008 Why, when asked for new cellos and basses for the middle school, were there only one or two of each purchased? Is this less of a priority than buying field turf for the high school?
The turf field is a special project authorized by voters that is bonded over a number of years. Musical equipment is paid for through the annual budget. During the budget planning process, there are needs in each of the buildings within the music department that are prioritized and funded accordingly.
Posted on March 18, 2008 I have noticed many parents picking up middle school students at the Winans Wing lot. This is not an approved spot for children and is very dangerous. Can this be monitored better by the campus safety patrol?
Thanks for the information. It will be forwarded to the appropriate parties for review and action.
Posted on March 18, 2008 Why weren't parents of Arongen students living in Clifton Gardens notified about the change from Koda to Acadia for the 08-09 school year before the kids "gossiped" about it in school?
Because it was not official until March 11.
Posted on March 13, 2008 When the elementary school redistricting took place, parents had an opportunity to see (the map) and comment on the proposed changes. Why isn't the same being done for the middle school redistricting? It is my understanding the vote is taking place on March 11th and no one has seen the proposed changes.
A proposed boundary map was publicly presented last year and it was up on the website for several months. The map presented at the public board meeting on March 11 was only slightly different and very similar to the current middle school boundaries. In addition, no students will "change schools" because the new boundaries are only for the incoming gr. 6. The current 6th and 7th graders will finish out their middle school years in the school they currently attend.
Posted on March 13, 2008 How exactly are LOTE, Technology, and Music classes going to be reconfigured at the Middle School level? Will we need more staff members to teach those classes or will any existing staff lose their jobs as part of the process?
LOTE will be expanded to a full year for gr. 7 and 8 and the exploratory program at the gr. 6 level will be eliminated. Technology will be increased in gr. 6 from 10 weeks to 20 weeks. Musical performing groups will meet on alternate days as opposed to every day. Existing staff will not lose their jobs. There will be the need for some new positions.
Posted on March 12, 2008 Studies have shown that watching television while eating is an unhealthy habit. Why is the TV on in the cafeteria during lunch at the middle school?
The middle school has a 40 minute lunch period and it takes students less than half that time to eat. The extra time provides an opportunity for them to relax and watch ESPN highlights. As soon as weather permits, we prefer to take them outside during that time.
Posted on March 12, 2008 Is it possible for my middle school child who eats lunch at 10:30 to have a snack later in the day? She doesn't get home until 4:30 and is incredibly hungry.
The middle school doesn't really allow food outside of the cafeteria. Maybe she can talk to a counselor or teacher and see if there is reasonable solution.
Posted on March 12, 2008 I am stunned that a typing class is not available until gr. 9. Any plans to add a typing class to the gr. 6 curriculum?
Next year the 10 week technology program for gr. 6 students will be expanded to a 20-week course. The extended program will enable the district to teach keyboarding. An actual typing class is not being considered at this time.
Posted on March 12, 2008 How is character education being taught in the middle schools?
All classes incorporate character education into their lessons at every level. There is a character education Web page that highlights some of the activities and programs throughout the district. Specifically at the middle school, several arts and education programs are planned throughout the year to address this topic and it is integrated into the Family and Consumer Science classes through the community service project.
Posted on March 12, 2008 Why aren't hats allowed in the middle schools but okay at the high school?
While the board sets broad policies, individual school buildings can determine more specific parameters or guidelines to ensure a positive and safe environment. The administration at the three middle schools agree that hats are not appropriate for the middle school classroom. The middle schools do have special days when students are allowed to wear hats to promote school spirit or a particular event.
Posted on March 5, 2008 I am an ARMY veteran and find it discouraging to drive onto the campus and notice an empty flag pole outside Koda Middle School...why?
You have a valid point. It has been inconsistent the past few weeks mainly, but not exclusively, due to the weather. However, Koda is proud of their flag and the principal will make every effort to make certain the flag is flying high everyday (except when conditions are extremely poor).
Posted on March 5, 2008 In reference to the grade 8 orchestra program...how does a 50% reduction in classroom time increase student/teacher interaction?
By reducing the class size in the performing music groups. It also allows for many other programmatic improvements (i.e. strengthening LOTE and Tech programs) and makes Shenendehowa more consistent with most every other middle school in the area.
Posted on March 5, 2008 Why is music/chorus/band a full year - everyday subject when LOTE and Tech are only half-year subjects?
There are changes to the program of studies proposed for next year that address this.
Posted on March 5, 2008 What is the earliest time in the morning that students are allowed to enter the middle school? Is the library open before school?
Students can enter at 7:30 a.m. because that is when the district starts providing supervision. The libraries are open most mornings at 8 a.m. except every other Tuesday when the middle school holds staff meetings.
Posted on March 5, 2008 In the middle school, why are students required to read for 18 minutes every Wednesday?
It is part of the Drop Everything and Read (DEAR) program.
Posted on March 5, 2008 What is the last contractual day for middle school staff?
June 25.
Posted on March 4, 2008 Is it being discussed to change the time of day middle schools will be in session?
Currently, the district is reviewing the start times of all of our schools as part of a larger transportation study.
Posted on February 29, 2008 Can seventh graders tryout for the Dance Team?
Posted on February 29, 2008 What changes are being made to the curriculum for gr. 8 next year? What about gr. 8 orchestra?
Posted on February 29, 2008 How come there is a Team 3 in sixth grade, which is smaller?
Posted on February 29, 2008 Why does only the sixth grade have block scheduling in the middle school?
Posted on February 29, 2008 In the middle school, students are allowed only four minutes between classes. Is this enough time?
Posted on February 29, 2008 How are middle school students nominated for Student Recognition? Are parents invited to attend the breakfast if their child is nominated?
Posted on February 29, 2008 Is the dress code for the middle school dances/semi formal the same as the day-to-day dress code at school?
Posted on February 24, 2008 How do middle schoolers get selected for acceleration?
Posted on February 20, 2008 Why are there ice cream vending machines in the middle school cafeteria?
Ice cream is served as an a la carte item across the district. We use vending machines because we have a shortage of freezer space.
Posted on February 15, 2008 I heard that Koda Middle School 8th graders will not be having a semiformal, is that true?
There will be a tri-building (Koda, Gowana, Acadia), grade 8 "Dress to Impress" dance held on May 9.
Posted on February 15, 2008 What are your school rules on students kissing in between classes at the middle school?
Public displays of affection (PDA) are NOT allowed. If they are caught, it is broken up and, in many cases, students are referred to the counselors and/or the assistant principal for discussion. If a problem continues, parents are notified.
Posted on February 11, 2008 Are there any plans to refurbish the middle school auditorium?
Yes. The project will begin this summer.
Posted on February 11, 2008 Will the middle school band for 7th and 8th graders meet every other day (rather than daily) next year to accommodate the change to a full year of LOTE (Languages Other than English) and technology?
Yes. This is a proposal being recommended for next year. It would provide for smaller, more individualized instruction.
Posted on February 7, 2008 How will I know what middle school my child from Skano will be going to?
The proposal for the new boundaries will be presented in March to the board of education. Once they are approved, the new boundary map will be posted on the website. Parents will also receive a letter telling them what middle school their child will attend.
Posted on February 7, 2008 Is it true that the middle schools will not hold anymore tri-building dances?
In an effort to keep these type of activities safe for all who participage, the middle schools decided to try and reduce the number of tri-building dances (except for the gr. 8 tri-building dance in the Spring). Having individual school-based dances provides an environment where most, if not all, of the students know who the staff is and this helps a great deal in providing more control particularly when you consider that 300-400 students attend most dances. The middle school administration will continue to discuss this issue as it is also recognized that tri-building activities provide students with an opportunity to interact with students of the same grade level from the other two middle schools.
Posted on February 5, 2008 What is the protocol regarding AIS (Academic Intervention Services)? How and when are parents notified as to their child being in the AIS program?
Parents should receive a letter from their child's principal in advance of receiving AIS. The letter is standard procedure. Being below a level 3 in reading is one of the criteria for academic intervention services in first grade. If you were not notified, you should contact your child's principal to discuss.
Posted on February 4, 2008 There are rumors flying around that the district is going to stop allowing field trips during the school day. Is that true?
Field trips play a valuable role and there is no plan to stop allowing them during the school day. The district is looking at the cost concerns expressed from some parents as well as the policies and guidelines for field trips.
Posted on February 5, 2008 If a student is absent from school due to a family trip, is it considered an unexcused absence? What does this mean for the student?
If a student is absent because he/she is on a family trip, it is considered an unexcused absence. We strongly discourage vacations while school is in session.
Posted on February 5, 2008 What is the status of the Middle School Redistricting Plan?
The new boundaries are expected to be presented to the Board of Education in March. While there are some proposed modifications, the boundary map that will be recommended is very similar to the current middle school boundary map.
Posted on February 5, 2008 Recently there was a small fire in the middle school that resulted in all three buildings having to be evacuated. While safety of the students should be priority one, I wondered if it was necessary to evacuate the entire complex for such a small matter. Are there any fire proof doors/dividers that separate the schools?
There are fire-weighted doors but we have been told by the fire department that we must evacuate all three buildings when the fire alarm goes off until they arrive to determine the severity of the situation. The same is true for Skano/Tesago, Karigon/Orenda and Arongen/Shatekon.
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Archives MS Moving Up Technology course at MS MS Dance Bringing an author to school Morning announcements for Acadia Acadia field trip Water bottles at MS 8th-grade dance Gowana Recognition Night New technology at Gowana Spring pictures at Gowana MS libraries Honor roll Computer labs MS Graduation MS time between classes MS music program Lockers at MS gym MS Awards • Gr. 8 dance • Middle school parking Selecting LOTE Gowana announcements Instrument storage at middle school MS musical Koda jazz band MS music equipment Drop off safety at MS Middle school boundary changes Changes to LOTE, Music and Tech TV in MS cafeteria MS lunch Typing Character Ed Hats in MS Flag at Koda Changes in MS program of studies MS hours MS student required to read Last day of middle school Start times of schools Dance team Sixth grade teams Block scheduling Transition time between middle school classes Student recognition at middle school Dress code at middle school dances Middle school acceleration Ice cream vending machines Gr. 8 Dance PDA at Middle School Refurbish middle school auditorium Band for 7th & 8th grade What MS will my child attend Tribuilding dances AIS Field trips Absence for family trip Redistricting MS boundaries • Evacuation
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