What’s In this Newsletter!!!

Principal’s Message

Open House

Dates and Teacher Info

Refrigerator Page

Back to School Information

- Calendar of Events - Book Bags - PE Uniforms - Outdoor School - School Hours and Visitors - Change of Address - Emergency Cards - Student Agenda - Box Tops - Transportation - Service Learning - Home Access Center (HAC) - Study Skills Class - Junior CSI

Cafeteria

Health Suite

Volunteer Training - NEW

CCPS Policy Notifications

School Supply List

Sykesville Middle PTO

- Membership Form - Volunteer Form

School Rewards Programs

Electronic Device Policy

Breakfast/Lunch Menu

Sykesville Middle School ● 7301 Springfield Ave ● Sykesville, MD 21784 ● (410) 751-3545 ● http://www.carrollk12.org/sml

Scorpion Scoop - Back to School 2017

SMS MISSION STATEMENT:

The Sykesville Middle School community's purpose is to meet the changing social, emotional, mental, physical, and academic needs of our diverse students and staff. We collaborate in an environment of high expectations that provides a

rigorous, relevant, and comprehensive academic program to develop student and staff leaders who are self-advocating, critical

thinkers who will continue to grow and enrich our school community.

Message from the Principal - August 2017

Greetings from Sykesville Middle School! Well, our extra-long summer is winding down. It’s not over yet, but we’re getting closer to

the start of another school year all the time. Actually, I’m looking forward to it! Schools are

not supposed to be this quiet! It’s probably time to begin gradually adjusting student bedtimes

and morning routines to get them accustomed to getting up earlier than they’ve had to over the

past few months. When students return this year, they’ll find some new faces at Sykesville Middle School. We

had a few folks transfer to other positions within the county seeking new challenges in new

roles, but I’m very pleased with the quality of the people we hired to replace them. I know

you’re going to be impressed, too! Below are the newest members of the Sykesville Middle

School family:

Laura Moses joins our counseling staff replacing Sherry Brown who’s heading off to

Century High School come fall. Ms. Moses has been a counselor at West Middle

School for the past four years and brings with her a wealth of experience working with

students from all kinds of backgrounds. Ms. Moses earned her B.A in Psychology

from the University of Maryland, College Park and her Masters in School Counseling

from McDaniel College. Some of you may remember Ms. Moses. She was a School

Counselor long-term substitute back in 2013.

Danielle Benefiel joins the school’s Related Arts Team as our new Technology

Education Teacher. Ms. Benefiel comes to us from Spring Wood Middle School in

Hanover Park, IL where she was a Computer Applications Teacher. She also taught

8th grade Social Studies and ELA. She earned her B.S. from Evangel University in

Springfield, MO and her Masters from Southwest Missouri University.

Kimberly Hamilton joins the faculty as Team 4’s new 7th grade ELA Teacher. In

addition to her ELA work, Ms. Hamilton has experience as an ESOL Resource

Teacher, and as a Private Literacy Instructor. She earned her B.A. from the College of

Notre Dame of Maryland and her Masters from the University of Maryland.

Kaitlin Robinson is Team 6/9’s new Math Teacher, where she’ll teach two sections

of 7th grade math and two sections of 8th. Ms. Robinson is a gifted new teacher. She

completed her student teaching at three CCPS schools: at North Carroll Middle

School, where she taught an Algebra I class; at South Carroll High School where she

taught Algebra II; and at Francis Scott Key High School where she taught Geometry

and Trigonometry. Ms. Robinson earned her B.A. from McDaniel College.

Theresa Duryea will be the school’s Math Resource Teacher. I’m excited about this

new position which is designed to assist students struggling with or needing

supplemental instruction in math. Ms. Duryea comes to us from North Carroll Middle

School where she was a highly regarded Math Teacher for many years. She earned

her B.A. in Elementary Math and her Masters in Mathematics Education from Towson

University.

School Hours for

Sykesville Middle: 8:25 to 3:00

Message from the Principal (continued)

Ingrid Parmelee replaces Ms. McMahan as the 7th grade Special Education Resource Teacher. She comes

to us from East Middle School where she distinguished herself as a very capable and caring professional.

She earned her degree from Marist College in New York.

There are also a couple of existing faculty members who will have new assignments this year:

Stephanie Calabria is moving from Team 8 where she taught 8th grade ELA, to Team 5 where she’ll teach

7th grade ELA. Ms. Calabria earned her B.A. at Townson University and her Masters from McDaniel

College.

Elizabeth McMahan will be our LFI/Structured Learning Teacher this year. Last year, Ms. McMahan

was the 7th grade Special Education Resource Teacher. She earned her B.A. and Masters from

Elizabethtown College and Valdosta State University, respectively.

Great people all! As a school principal, it’s my responsibility to recruit, hire, develop and retain the very best

teachers available, and that’s a responsibility I take very seriously. I have no doubt you’ll be as impressed with our

new staff as I am, and will enjoy working with them in the years ahead. They join an already first-rate faculty

enhancing our ability as a school to meet the needs of every student entrusted to us. When you send your children to

Sykesville Middle School each day, you can rest easy knowing they are in the hands of highly qualified

professionals who really care about their students and who will work hard to give them the best education possible.

When you get a moment, be sure to look through the newsletter. Lots of helpful information! However, if what

you’re looking for is not here, just give us a call. We’ll be happy to help.

It’s going to be a great year!

Chris Roemer

Principal

SYKESVILLE MIDDLE SCHOOL

Open House Wednesday, August 23, 2017

12:00 to 3:00 p.m.

Students and parents are invited to the school for self-guided

tours of the building. Maps will be provided. The school nurse

will be in the Health Suite for anyone needing to drop off

medications. Office staff will also be available to answer any

questions.

Where Students Meet Success

6th Grade BTSN

Wednesday 8/30/17

7:00 to 8:30 p.m.

SMS Open House

Wednesday 8/23/17

12:00 pm to 3:00 p.m.

Dates and Teacher Information

Homeroom Teachers and Room Numbers:

On your SMS “Back-to-School’ postcard mailing label is the information designating your homeroom and team placement.

* TEAM LEADER Team 1 - 6th Grade: Team 2 - 6th Grade: 202: * Ms. Kienzle - SS 209: * Ms. Brown - Math 203: Ms. Whitlow - ELA 204: Ms. Maleson - ELA 233: Ms. Martin - Science 208: Ms. Zepp - ELA and SS 200: Ms. Edwards - Math 221: Mr. Lowe - Math and Science 218: Ms. Hiles - Science 223: Ms. Conkling - SS Team 4 - 7th Grade: Team 5 - 7th Grade: Team 6 - 7th Grade: 217: * Ms. Baker - Math 180: * Ms. Ellis - Science 181: * Ms. Smith - ELA 216: Ms. Hamilton - ELA 175: Mr. Patterson - SS 170: Ms. Robinson - Math 211: Mr. Perry - SS 171: Ms. Henning - Math 166: Ms. Bittner - Science 177: Ms. Peno - Science 176: Ms. Calabria - ELA 169: Ms. Mullinix - SS Team 7 - 8th Grade: Team 8 - 8th Grade: Team 9 - 8th Grade: 163: * Ms. Murphy - Science 001: * Ms. Davies - ELA 181: * Ms. Smith - ELA 182: Ms. Kimble - ELA P03: Ms. Nievod - SS 170: Ms. Robinson - Math P05: Mr. Wisner - Math P04: Ms. Gallet- Math 166: Ms. Bittner - Science P06: Ms. Borcik - SS 164: Ms. Levine - Science 169: Ms. Mullinix - SS 003: Ms. Duryea - Math Teacher

Related Arts Teachers

Teacher Subject Room#

* Ms. Schaper FACS 152

Ms. Duda Art 158A/158B

Ms. Watcher Spanish 025

* Mr. Passen Instrumental Music 140

Ms. Paulsgrove Chorus/General Music 045

Ms. Benefiel Tech Ed. 021/022

* Ms. Boumel Health 145

Mr. Beck P.E. 133

Ms. Herget P.E. 127

Ms. Roop P.E. 127

Ms. Bricca Media Specialist Media

Resource Teachers

Teacher Subject Room#

Ms. Galvin 6th Grade Resource 206

Ms. Parmelee 7th Grade Resource 165

* Ms. Bartlett 8th Grade Resource 210

Ms. Meassick 6th/7th Grade Resource 165

Ms. McMahan Learning for Independence 002

Ms. Landry Reading Specialist 168

Ms. Duryea Math Specialist 003

Ms. Putt Speech Pathologist 231

Ms. Haerbig Gifted and Talented 222

Ms. Dimond Instructional Assistant

Ms. Myers Instructional Assistant

Ms. Pfarr Instructional Assistant

Ms. Whitehead Instructional Assistant

7th/8th Grade BTSN

Thursday 9/14/17

7:00 to 8:30 p.m.

REFRIGERATOR PAGE: 2017-2018

Sykesville Middle School Hours

STUDENTS ARRIVE: 8:00am

HOMEROOM: 8:00 -8:25am

CLASSES: 8:25am -3:00pm

DISMISSAL: 3:00pm

2 hour, 45 minute early dismissal time is 12:15pm

Students arriving after 8:25 am will be marked TARDY. Morning door opening procedures can be found on

the next page.

2017-2018 Marking Periods*

QUARTER 1: September 5 - November 10 QUARTER 2: November 13 - January 26 QUARTER 3: January 29 - April 10 QUARTER 4: April 11 - June 14

*Actual marking periods may be adjusted

depending on the use of emergency closing days.

2017-2018 Lunch Times & Prices Breakfast is served at 8:00 am

M/Tu/Th/F Wed 6th Grade: 10:45 - 11:15 10:50 - 11:20

7th Grade: 12:05 - 12:35 12:30 - 1:00

8th Grade: 11:25 - 11:55 11:30 - 12:00

Prices: Breakfast: $1.75 Lunch: $2.75 Adult Lunch: $3.50

Milk: 60¢ Ice Cream: $1.00

The online monitoring/payment system can be found at www.myschoolbucks.com. All students enter their PIN when purchasing a breakfast or lunch regardless of whether they are using cash, money on account, or receiving free or reduced priced meals. Cafeteria PIN numbers are the same as last year.

ATTENDANCE If your child is absent, email the school at: smlattendance@carrollk12.org

It is your child’s responsibility to obtain any missed assignments; either from a classmate, the online homework website, or from their teachers upon their return to school. If your child is absent from school for three or more consecutive days, you may make arrangements for homework by contacting the school. Please give 24 hours notice for this request.

HOMEWORK WEBSITE

Daily homework assignments are compiled by Team Leaders and uploaded to OneNote Online. To access the homework, visit the Sykesville Middle School homepage http://www.carrollk12.org/sml/ and click on the "Homework Website" icon, then scroll down the menu on the left side and select your Team or subject area. There is also a homework link on the individual Team and subject area pages.

SCHOOL COUNSELORS

Ms. Moses: 6th Grade (M-Z) and 7th Grade (all)

Ms. Wallach:

6th Grade (A-L) and 8th Grade (all)

Christian Roemer, Principal and Christopher Merson, Assistant Principal Phone: 410-751-3545 Fax: 410-751-3573

Calendar of Events

AUGUST 23 SMS Open House; 12:00-3:00 pm 30 6th Grade BTSN; 7:00 pm SEPTEMBER 4 Labor Day 5 First Day of School; 8:25 am to 3:00 pm 14 7th/8th Grade BTSN; 7:00 pm 19 Student Picture Day 21 Schools/Offices Closed - Rosh Hashanah 22 No School for Students

Book Bags Students may use book bags to transport books to and from school; however, students must leave their book bags in their lockers during the school day. This is for the safety of all students and staff. Students will be given sufficient opportunities to visit their locker throughout the day so that they will not need to carry all of their books. These locker visit times will be determined by each individual team. Students can carry gym bags or small plastic bags for their gym clothes.

PE Uniforms All students must wear appropriate clothing during Physical Education class. A Sykesville Middle School uniform is not

mandatory, but clothing must consist of a gray (or white) t-shirt, black shorts and gym shoes.

For your convenience, students will have the opportunity to

purchase a SMS gym uniform the first week of school through our Physical Education Department.

The cost is $10 for the shirt and $10 for the shorts ($20 for

both). Checks should be made payable to SMS. Cash is also accepted.

Back-to-School Information

6th Grade OUTDOOR SCHOOL

WEEKS OF:

April 30th to May 4th May 7th to 11th May 14th to 18th May 21st to 25th

More information will be sent home in 2018 as the dates get closer.

Sykesville Middle School Hours The school’s main entrance is locked until 7:30 am, and students will not be able to enter the building until that

time. At 7:30 am a staff member will be on duty in the front lobby to allow students access to the school building and to monitor their behavior prior to homeroom, which begins at 8:00 am. The doors behind the school, nearest the portables, will remain locked until 8:00 am, at which time a staff member will

be on duty to allow students who walk or ride their bikes to enter the building through those doors. Prior to 8:00 am (but not before 7:30 am), students wishing to enter the building must do so through the school’s main entrance. All exterior doors are locked during the school day.

Invitation to Visit Sykesville Middle School is open to parents, guardians and other family members at all times. However, for reasons of

safety, visitors are required to report to the Main Office before going anywhere in the building. All visitors need to present a valid driver’s license to be scanned. They will be given a pass that they must wear the entire time they

are in the building. Parents wishing to make an appointment with individual teachers, counselors, or other staff members should call in advance of their visit

Back to School Information (continued …)

Emergency Cards

On the first day of school each student will receive one

(1) copy of his/her Emergency Card. You will find a

great deal of your child’s information preprinted on the card. It is critical the preprinted information is

carefully reviewed by a parent/guardian. If the card reflects incorrect information you are asked

to make note of the revisions on the card. All

Emergency Cards must be signed by a parent/guardian and returned to the school within three

(3) days. The phone number associated with the student for office and emergency calls (i.e. school weather closings) will AUTOMATICALLY update to the primary number for Parent/Guardian #1. If this is not the number you want called first, then you need to change the emergency card.

In addition, it is extremely important for parents to

update their child’s information throughout the school

year. This can be done using the Home Access Center. A change of residence, however, will require proper

documentation. This accurate information will allow the school nurse, guidance counselors, team leaders,

administrators and classroom teachers to have the accurate information needed to remain in close

communication with parents and guardians.

Thank you!

Change of Address

State and County attendance regulations require the

school to maintain accurate, up-to-date, enrollment

information for each student; therefore, when you have a change of address it is mandatory you provide the

school with one of the following:

SIGNED Lease/Rental Agreement on a home/

apartment in which the parent/legal guardian is currently residing (expired lease is not acceptable)

Current Rent Receipt *

Recent Bill for a service delivered to the residence

(e.g., BGE, land-line phone, cable, oil, water) *

Mortgage Statement/Bill *

SIGNED Settlement Document

Property Tax Bill from the current fiscal year

indicating “Primary Residence” Deed (must show house number, street name and

name of parent/legal guardian) Residence Verification Statement accompanied by an

acceptable proof of residency for the owner/lessee of

the property Real Property Data Search Report listing parent/

guardian name and “principal residence”

*DATE ON DOCUMENT MUST BE WITHIN 60 DAYS OF

ENROLLMENT. If you do not have any of these

documents, please contact the Student Services Department at (410) 751-3120 for further assistance.

Student Agenda

The first day of school all students will receive an Agenda courtesy of the PTO. This book will contain information specific to Sykesville Middle School and is a place to write daily assignments. Students must carry this book with them to each

class and home each night. If the agenda is lost, replacements are available for a fee of $4.00. Supplies are limited so

students are encouraged to know where their agenda is at all times. In addition, all students will receive a Sykesville Middle School folder. You will find these useful tools and very helpful in answering questions about policies and

procedures.

Send in those Box Tops!!

For each Box Top turned in, Sykesville Middle School gets 10 cents!! Please clip those box tops and send them in

to Mrs. Schaper. Box tops will be counted twice a year, and the winning homeroom gets a special event. For a list of participating products click on the link below

Participating BoxTop Items

Transportation

The bus routes will be posted on the CCPS website on August 15. They will be published in the Carroll County Times on August 22.

BUS RIDERS Students riding buses should arrive at their designated bus stops at least five minutes prior to the scheduled pick-up

time. One AM and one PM stop location shall be allowed for each transported student.

Video/Audio cameras are placed on school buses to protect students and staff and to provide a safe and orderly

transportation environment. The privacy of students and the recordings are kept secure and are reviewed only by authorized Carroll County Public Schools Personnel.

Permission to ride a bus, other than a student’s assigned bus, is only granted in emergency situations.

Permission to ride a different bus can be granted only by the school’s administration. BOTH sets of parents/guardians must submit written requests in advance. Further, a written request from a parent or guardian is required whenever a

student will be traveling home by a means different than what is typical for that student (i.e. walking home or parent

pick-up instead of taking the bus, etc.). These requests must be sent to the office first thing in the morning for administrative approval.

WALKERS It is always a good idea for students to walk with a friend, using only the sidewalks and/or paths provided. At no time

should students “cut” across or be on private property without the owner’s permission.

PARENT PICK-UP Parent pick-up and drop-off will continue to be along the front sidewalk of the school. For the safety of all students, please be patient and follow the instructions of the designated school staff at this location.

Back-to-School Information (continued …)

New Overflow Parking This summer we were able to open up some overflow parking in the front lot. Parking has always been tight at the

school, especially at Back-to-School Nights and other similar events. The new parking is adjacent to the front lot. I’m

told years ago, this area used to be tennis courts. I’m glad it’s now available to parents on our busiest evenings here at Sykesville Middle.

Home Access Center

Home Access Center is available for students, parents and legal guardians to login and view information pertaining to

their students. Please follow these directions to login to your account:

1. Go to the Carroll County Public Schools website at https://www.carrollk12.org/

2. Click on the ‘Home Access Center’ link. 3. A new page will open; click the ‘Request Password’ link.

4. Enter the email address you provided on your student’s emergency card (it will be the email account where you receive School Messenger alerts. You will receive an email to that account with a link to a web page. If the

email message does not appear within several minutes check your junk mail folder and make sure it wasn’t

delivered there. It will come from donotreply@carrollk12.org. 5. Click the link from the email message and follow the instructions on‐screen. You will be prompted to answer 3

questions about one of your students. Once you have answered the questions correctly your password will appear on‐screen. Click the link on that page to be taken to the Home Access Center login screen.

6. Login using your email address and the password that was displayed on‐screen. After logging in be sure to click ‘Profile’ in the top right‐hand corner and identify a new password for your account.

Please make sure you review the FAQ/Users Guide. It contains important information and FAQs regarding getting connected and navigating Home Access Center.

Back-to-School Information (continued …)

Important Service-Learning Information

https://www.carrollk12.org/instruction/curriculum/servicelearning/Pages/default.aspx

Please see Service Learning Requirement Overview in the Carroll County 2017-2018 informational calendar. Procedures for Student Service Learning Reflection Forms at SMS are as follows:

Service Learning hours may begin to accumulate the first day of summer break prior to entering the 6th grade.

Blank Student Service Reflection forms may be obtained online.

Thoroughly completed Service Reflection forms must be returned to the guidance office.

Failure to thoroughly complete these forms or follow the appropriate procedures may result in a student not

receiving credit for hours worked or a delay in receiving those credits.

Outdoor school forms must be submitted by October 1st of the 7th grade school year.

Other forms must be received no later than one year from the date the service was completed.

Completed forms should be received as soon as possible following the completion of the activity in order for it to

appear in the student record.

Parent/guardians are able to check their child’s Service Learning Hours via the Home Access Center.

Due to the volume of forms received it is always a good idea to make and keep a copy of each thoroughly

completed form before it is submitted.

For clarification and complete program information please refer to the Carroll County Service Learning Guidelines that

are located on the County website .

If you are unsure whether an activity will count towards the Service-Learning requirement, please contact Amy Levine at Sykesville Middle, or the County Coordinator at (410) 751-3096.

2017 Sykesville Police Department Junior CSI Academy

The Sykesville Police Department, in conjunction with the Freedom District Lion’s Club Youth Outreach program, is proud to announce that’s its popular Junior CSI Academy will be held again this year on September 19, September 26,

October 3 and October 10. This year marks the 9th year that the program has been held here in Sykesville. As in the past, the academy will be held at the Sykesville Middle School, further strengthening the bond between our communi-

ty, school and the Police Department.

The academy will once again be led by the Sykesville Chief of Police, Michael A. Spaulding, who brings many years of

experience in criminal investigations to our academy. Students will be exposed to the various facets of crime scene investigations during the four-week course. Participants will have the opportunity to learn fingerprinting, grid searches,

and the importance of learning how to locate, photograph and collect evidence, as well as how to maintain the integri-ty of a crime scene.

The instructors come from the Maryland State Police, Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, Baltimore County Police, and Balti-more City Police Department, and all have experience in the various aspects of crime-scene investigations. Classes are

scheduled from 4:00-6:30 on Tuesday evenings, culminating with the final exam and graduation on the last day. On the final exam day, the students will face “mock” crime scenes which will be laid out in various locations at the school.

The class will be broken into groups, and each group assigned to a crime scene to test their knowledge and investiga-tive skills along with the various techniques they learned during the program. Applications will be available after June

1st, and can be obtained in person at the Police Department, Sykesville Middle School, or on-line on the town’s website

at (www.townofsykesville.org). Class size is limited, so it is recommended that you get your application completed and turned-in soon. First come, first served.

Back-to-School Information (continued …)

Study Skills Class

We are pleased to announce Sykesville Middle School's PTO will be sponsoring a Study Skills Class for interested

students this year. The class will be taught in the mornings before school by Ms. Heather Thorpe who has provided this training to many students over the years at both public and private schools. The cost will be $100 per student,

with a limited number of scholarships available to students needing financial assistance. Here is a course description:

Many students think that being a good student means just showing up for classes, taking a few notes, reading the textbooks, and studying right before the tests. However, learning, like many other activities, involves a complex set of skills that require practice. For example, if you wanted to become a good basketball player, you would have to learn how to dribble, pass, shoot, rebound, be a team player, etc., and you would have to practice these individual skills over and over in order to improve them. Similarly, studying involves learning a complex set of skills, such as note taking, test taking, etc., that must be practiced in order for you to become a good student. Sykesville Middle School's PTO is excited to sponsor a study skills course this fall that will teach effective and efficient skills for studying as well as help students gain the confidence they will need to succeed in Middle School and beyond! The class will be offered twice a week for a 5 week period from 7:15am to 8:15am. More details about the class and how to register will be announced at the beginning of the school year. Below is a list of just some of the skills that will taught throughout the course!

- Organizational Skills - Reading Comprehension - Note Taking - Test Taking - Home Study - Writing - Understanding Instead of Memorizing - Studying Math/Science vs. English/History and many more relevant study skills

Stay tuned for information on how to register.

Health Suite

The summer is ending and I wanted to communicate information that will smooth the preparation and transition back

to school. Please use the emergency card to document your child’s medical conditions and/or changes to their medications. I will be available the week before school starts to meet with students and parents to develop medical

plans.

Breakfast, breakfast, breakfast … I cannot emphasize how important it is for all family members to have breakfast every morning. This routine would also give everyone time to touch base before the day starts and maybe eliminate a

few extra trips to school because something is forgotten at home.

With fall comes a new group of pollens and I encourage students with fall allergies, to take their allergy medication daily. The mile run will take place during the fall, so if your child has asthma please have their inhaler at school ready

for use along with a completed medication form. Students may carry their inhalers if the inhaler release is completed on the medication form.

All medication, for student use during the school day, must be brought in by an adult, in its original container with a

completed medication consent form. The age appropriate doses of Tylenol and Advil/Motrin only need a parent’s signature on the form. If your child is not 12 years of age, he/she will have to take the children’s form of the above

medication, unless your doctor also signs the medication form. All other over-the-counter and prescription medications

must have a parent’s and doctor’s signature on the medication form. Students may bring the following items to school: water bottles, saline solution for contacts, non-medicated throat lozenges, sunscreen, hand lotion, lip balm and

wrapped anti-bacterial hand wipes. There is a link to all medical forms on the Sykesville Middle School website.

And, finally, if for any reason your child cannot participate in PE for more than a week, a letter stating such must

be completed by their doctor and brought to school. You will need a release for your child to return to PE if there is not a return date on the doctor’s note.

Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Beth Harkins, BSN

Sykesville Middle School Nurse

IMPORTANT—CHANGE IN VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS

PARENTS/GUARDIANS OF ALL INCOMING 7

TH GRADE STUDENTS (SCHOOL YEAR 2017-2018):

The regulations covering school immunizations have changed for the school year 2017. In order to begin the school year 2017-2018 all incoming 7

th grade students will be required to have:

1 dose of Tdap vaccine 1 dose of Meningococcal vaccine If your child does not have proof of these vaccinations by September 25, 2017 they will be excluded from school. Please check with your physician to schedule these vaccinations prior to the start of the school year. I need a copy of the student’s updated immunization record - showing the new shot information - from the physi-cian’s office.

VOLUNTEERS - Carroll County Public Schools 2017-2018

Making a Difference Together Volunteering is an excellent way for parents, family, community members, and business partners to build and

strengthen ties with the Carroll County Public School System. Volunteers offer their time, effort, and/or talents to

benefit all students in the school system.

Volunteer Training is moving online! Anyone wishing to be a volunteer during the 2017-2018 school year will be able to take the required training at a time and location convenient to them on a computer

or smart phone. No longer will you be required to attend school-based training session. Check the CCPS website at carrollk12.org for specific instructions.

Reminder - Volunteer training obtained during the 2016-2017 school year is only valid through September 30, 2017. Completing required annual volunteer training ONLINE prior to October 1, 2017

will maintain your eligibility to volunteer and alleviate gaps in your volunteer service.

Safety & Security - Volunteer Requirement

Volunteers MUST present valid ID each time they volunteer,

even when volunteering outside the building.

Volunteer Training

CCPS POLICY NOTIFICATIONS

CCPS Code of Conduct & Student/Parent Handbook

A copy of the CCPS Code of Conduct & Student/Parent Handbook will be sent home with all 6th grade students the first week of school. Parents of students in 7th and 8th grade can find the CCPS Code of Conduct & Student/Parent Handbook on the CCPS website — https://www.carrollk12.org/about/Documents/

studenthandbook.pdf. It is expected that each parent/student will read both the Carroll County Public Schools’ Handbook and the student handbook from Sykesville Middle. In general, middle school students do a wonderful job of following the guidelines for the County and school policies. In terms of dress code, remember, many students have grown significantly over the summer break and clothing that fit in the spring may be too short for this school year. The length of shorts, particularly, is something parents may want to take a closer look at. You will find a copy of the Portable Electronic Devices Guidelines at the end of this newsletter. For more information about the policy, including FAQs, please visit the CCPS website at https://www.carrollk12.org/instruction/studentparentresources/Pages/Informational-Resources.aspx It is important that parents and guardians take the time to review and familiarize themselves with the complete Dress Code, Electronic Devices (Other), Portable Electronic Devices, and Telecommunications/Internet Safety sections of the handbook.

A.H.E.R.A.

As a requirement of the AHERA (Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act) management plans for all buildings owned

or leased by the Board of Education of Carroll County Public Schools are available for review at the individual Carroll County School locations and at the Office of Plant Operations located at 191 Schaeffer Avenue, Westminster, MD

21157. Management plans are required by the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) and depict the location, amount, condition, and response action projected for any asbestos containing materials, if any are located in the school building.

CCPS Board of Education Meetings

The complete Board of Education meeting schedule for 2017-2018 can be found on the CCPS website at:

https://www.carrollk12.org/boe

CCPS POLICY NOTIFICATIONS

NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION

Carroll County Public Schools (CCPS) is firmly committed to creating equal employment and educational opportunities for all persons with regard to its employment practices and in the provision of services, programs, and activities. CCPS does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, genetic information, marital status, mental or physical disability, ancestry or national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. CCPS provides non-discriminatory access to school facilities in accordance with its policies and regulations regarding the community use of schools (including, but not limited to, the Boy Scouts). The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Gregory J. Bricca Director of Research and Accountability 125 North Court Street Westminster, Maryland 21157 (410) 751-3068

CONSENT AND RELEASE

Permission to Photograph, Videotape or Audiotape

Throughout the school year, the Carroll County Public School System frequently covers school activities and may use your child’s photograph, video image, or voice for educational, informational, or public relations purposes, with or without identification by name. If you do not wish to have your child’s voice reproduced on tape or to have his/her image appear in such things as a video or a photograph, or on the school or school system website or social media, please notify the school principal in writing. It is assumed that parents and guardians consent to their children being audiotaped, photographed, videotaped, or having their image placed on a school website or social media by the school system unless such notification is received. There are also occasions when the media cover certain school events (such as when a government leader visits a school). If you do not wish to have your child’s name or likeness published by the media, you should address your concerns directly to the school involved so that the media is so advised. Please be advised that the school system has no control over the media when they are covering activities such as sporting events and musical programs that are open to the public. Use of Student Work on Websites or in Publications

There may be times throughout the year when the Carroll County Public School System wishes to display student work on school websites, social media, or in publications. If you do not wish to have your child’s art, poetry, writing, etc. appear on school websites, social media, or in publications, please notify the school principal in writing. It is assumed that parents and guardians consent to their child’s work being displayed on school websites, social media, or in publications unless such notification is received.

ADA ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT Carroll County Public Schools (CCPS) does not discriminate on the basis of disability in employment or the provision of services, programs or activities. Persons needing auxiliary aids and services for communication should contact the Office of Community and Media Relations at 410-751-3020 or publicinfo@carrollk12.org, or write to Carroll County Public Schools, 125 North Court Street, Westminster, Maryland 21157. Persons who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, may use Relay or 7-1-1. Please contact the school system at least one (1) week in advance of the date the special accommodation is needed. Information concerning the Americans with Disabilities Act is available from the Director of Facilities or the Supervisor of Community and Media Relations:

Raymond Prokop Director of Facilities 125 North Court Street

Westminster, Maryland 21157

(410) 751-3177

Carey Gaddis Supervisor of Community & Media Relations 125 North Court Street Westminster, Maryland 21157 (410) 751-3020

FROM THE SMS PTO

Hello Sykesville Middle Parents:

Please consider how you can help the school and the PTO this year. We have a lot of immediate and urgent needs for help with our committees (see the list below for openings). If you would like to get involved and help our PTO

this year, please contact Wendy Burch or Brian Bergamaschi (co-Presidents).

Below is a list of the parents who have volunteered their time and talents. Thank you to everyone who is helping and

we always welcome more help!

Board Position Name

Co-Presidents Wendy Burch (wendyburch@gmail.com) and

Brian Bergamaschi (mimibrianbergy@comcast.net)

Vice President Erin Klima

Treasurer Bara Hollander

Secretary Crystal Tichnell

Committee Chairs Name

Academic Recognition Heather Thorpe

Book Fair NEED

Cultural Arts Ginger Bond

8th Grade Dance NEED

Fundraising Committee Heather Thorpe

Restaurant Night Coordinator NEED

Hospitality/Sunshine Carrie Leach

Membership Michelle Kim

Spirit Wear NEED

Volunteer Coordinator Heather Grimsley

Please watch for info on our upcoming meetings! Please get involved...your contribution can impact the entire school

community! You’ll have the opportunity to sign up for events and committees at the Back to School Nights. If you

miss those sign-ups, please don’t hesitate to contact our volunteer coordinator, Heather Grimsley, at sykesvillemiddlevolunteers@gmail.com .

Thank you!

Sykesville Middle School PTO… Supporting school programs to benefit all of our children

SMS PTO’s annual membership drive is approaching. Membership prices for 2017-2018 are $7.00 per person or $12.00 for 2 memberships. Again this year 100% of the fees collected stay in our school. Don’t forget to sign up moms, dads, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and neighbors. Our membership drive will be going on throughout the months of September and October. However, new members are welcome anytime throughout the school year at PTO meetings

and as new students enter SMS. Please consider joining the PTO, your membership helps support school programs that benefit all of our children. Following tradition, we will be adding some fun and friendly competition to our membership drive. The homeroom, one in each grade, with the most members signed up by October 31st will receive an ice cream party. (If you have children in more than one grade or homeroom, your membership will be counted toward each child’s homeroom total.)* Please return completed form and payment at the open house, at a back to school night, or in an envelope addressed to PTO Membership by October 31st. Checks may be made payable to SMS PTO. Thank you for your support, Sykesville Middle School PTO ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sykesville Middle School PTO

Name: Amount Enclosed:

Address:

Phone:

Please list all Sykesville Middle Students in your family:

Student Name: Homeroom Teacher:

Student Name: Homeroom Teacher:

Student Name: Homeroom Teacher:

Please include student’s name and homeroom assignment in order to track which homeroom has the most participation for an ice cream party.

PTO ~ VOLUNTEER CLASSIFIEDS Sykesville Middle School

We are in need of caring parents, grandparents and friends willing to work whether at the school or at home. If you

can spare an hour or two once a month, once every two weeks, once a week or on a one time basis, WE NEED YOU!

Forms can be sent in with your child and placed in the PTO box in the office (Red Volunteer Coordinator folder).

If you sign up to be a regularly scheduled team volunteer, expect a call/email confirming your scheduled time and

dates for equipment and/or volunteer training.

Thanks in advance to all volunteers for making a valuable contribution to your child’s middle school!! It’s people

like you who make a great school even better!

Questions? Contact Heather Grimsley at sykesvillemiddlevolunteers@gmail.com.

PLEASE RETURN THIS FORM TO SCHOOL BY WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2017.

Please write legibly!

NAME:_______________________________________PHONE #:___________________________________

E-MAIL ADDRESS_______________________________________________________________________________

STUDENT(s):________________________________HOMEROOM TEACHER/GRADE(s):__________________________

__Team/Teacher Volunteer: Routinely scheduled to help collate, copy, laminate etc.

DAY/TIME AVAILABLE:__________________________________

PREFER: Monthly___ Bimonthly___ Weekly___

__Occasional Volunteer: Will be contacted as need arises for special school events.

__Bakers and Cooks: For hospitality events, sock hops or special events, you will be contacted when needed.

__Bake a cake: For staff birthdays, you will be contacted when needed.

__Book Fair / Media Center Needs or Event: Help during school or the evening hours.

__Fundraiser Committee: Plan, coordinate or help the day of the event.

__8th Grade Dance or Picnic Plan, coordinate or assist.

__Entertainment: Pour drinks, manage snack table, monitor hall at entertainment events.

__Hospitality Committee: Help set up for special teacher breakfasts and dinners.

__Cultural Arts Committee: help plan and assist with cultural events for each grade.

**BE ADVISED THAT WITH STATE AND COUNTY LAWS, any person who volunteers and could possibly have contact with

students (including chaperones), WILL NEED TO COMPLETE VOLUNTEER TRAINING ONLINE 7 SCHOOL DAYS prior to the

scheduled event. Once you have completed the online training for the current school year, you are eligible to volunteer at any

CCPS.

PLEASE CHECK ONE:

__I received volunteer training last school year and still need to be trained for the 2017-2018 school year.

__I have completed volunteer training online for the 2017-2018 school year.

__I have never received volunteer training.

Sykesville Middle

Register and Shop With several of the partnerships it’s as simple as registering your card and then shopping at these

retailers as you normally would. Martin’s, Giant, and Target:

Martin’s - A+ School Rewards http://martinsfoods.com/savings-and-

rewards/rewards-program/aplus/ School ID# 20437

Giant - A+ School Rewards http://giantfoodstores.com/savings-and-

rewards/rewards-program/aplus/ School ID# 01755

To register your card go to:

https://redcard.target.com/redcard/content/rcw_manage

Clip and Save

For each Box Top turned in, Sykesville Middle School gets 10 cents!! Please clip those box tops and send them in to Mrs. Schaper. Box tops will be counted twice a year, and the winning homeroom gets a special event. For a list of participating products click on the link below

Participating BoxTop Items

Recycle, recycle, recycle!

What Goes in the Paper Retriever® Bin?

Newspaper and Inserts – New newsprint can be made from 100% recycled paper. No virgin fiber has to be added when using this type of process.

Magazines/catalogs – Our Retriever program is happy to take magazines and catalogs, all slick paper. We can use all this high quality/high fiber paper with the exception of any paper coated in wax.

Office/School papers – These types of paper are highly recyclable. Because of the proliferation of paper created by offices and schools, please use the Retriever bin to recycle all that you can. We are able to accept window envelopes, paperback books, workbooks and staples without a problem. Shredded paper is acceptable but please bag the shreds before putting them in the Retriever bin. However, please do not recycle colored paper, wrapping or tissue paper, carbon paper or sticky notes.

Mail – Most direct mail is printed on high quality recyclable paper. Please recycle the mail that you feel comfortable putting in our recycling bin.

Printer Cartridge Recycling

Over 500 million printer cartridges are thrown away every year in the United States contributing billions of tons of waste to the nation’s landfills. Inkjet and laser cartridges can be refurbished and Sykesville Middle can earn money by collecting them. Please send in your empty inkjet and laser cartridges!

Help Families in Need!

Sykesville Middle School has a Goodwill Bin! As you drive into school, it is located on the left in the corner of the parking lot - it is big and blue and hard to miss. Carroll County Public Schools and Goodwill Industries of Monocacy Valley are partnered in an effort to support struggling families in Carroll County. We sup-ply $20 vouchers to families so that they can purchase clothing from Good-will. CCPS receives these vouchers from Goodwill based upon the weight of donations collected in the Goodwill collection boxes that are placed at many of our schools throughout the county. So far this school year, CCPS has been able to assist 58 families by issuing 144 vouchers. But there are families on a waiting list. Please consider donating your discarded clothing (new, used, even torn and stained) and small household items to Goodwill using the collection box at SMS.

Sykesville Middle School PTO… Supporting school programs to benefit all of our children

Dear Parents:

Did you know that you can recycle paper, newspapers, catalogs, magazines, junk mail, weekly advertisement circulars, TV Guides, folders, construction and poster paper, shredded paper, spiral notebook/theme books, office and school mail 24 hours a day 7 days a week at Sykesville Middle School?

Did you also know that we earn money for paper that is dropped off at our green and yellow recycling bin? Our recycling bin is located near the car rider pickup. This is an easy way for you to recycle your paper every week and help us raise money for the PTO. It is easy to get started – just place an empty box near your trash can at home and work and place your paper in the box! Bring your paper to SMS at your convenience! If dropping off shredded paper – please put it in a bag. If dropping off theme books – please take off the front and back hardcover – the metal spiral may remain intact. You do not need to remove staples from paper. Please, no cardboard.

Let your neighbors know they can contribute to our school as well! Do you know of a local business? Ask them to bring their paper to our bin! There is no financial commitment from you, just bring us your paper! Please remember to bring your paper and drop it in the Abitibi Recycling Bin. We will update you on our paper recycling progress! Thank you for your year-round support of this important fundraising effort! Recycling one ton of paper saves over 7,000 gallons of water, 390 gallons of oil, and 60 pounds of air emissions! Don’t throw your paper away, recycle it today!

For more information, log onto www.PaperRetriever.com.