11/29 - Angel Run Poster Making Party (see details below)
Blake Site Council Mtg - 3:15 p.m.
11/30 - Student Council Mtg
12/1 - Pride Alliance Mtg
12/2 - Term 1 Ends
12/4 - Angel Run
12/5 - Samaritans Workshop (see details below)
12/6 - Blake PTO Meeting - 7 p.m.
12/7 - Student Council Mtg
12/8 - Pride Alliance Mtg
12/12 - Term 1 Report Cards go home
12/13 - Blake Winter Chorus Concert
12/14 - Student Council Meeting
12/15 - Pride Alliance Mtg
Blake Winter Band Concert
12/20 - 7th Grade Field Trip to A Christmas Carol
Blake Winter Orchestra Concert
12/22 - Blake Winter Concert Snow Date
12/23 - ½ Day for Students and Staff
Blake’s Question of the Week
To encourage dialogue and reflection about the habits we want to develop and how practice helps them develop, our question for the week is: What is something you would like to improve over the next few weeks? Nurturing and Practicing Habits (Week of 11/27/22) (This is an anonymous Google Form)
8th Grade Turkey Bowl Wrap-Up
The Blake Wellness Staff was fortunate to be able to host one of our favorite traditions heading into Thanksgiving break. The 8th Grade Turkey Bowl consists of a 4v4 one hand touch football tournament and takes place on the MHS turf. This has been a culminating event to our 8th Grade Football unit and is always a great opportunity for students to come together, show spirit and compete in a friendly competition. In addition, we encouraged students to contribute an optional donation to the 8th Grade community service event which was a holiday dinner at Tilden Village. This year, we had 32 teams for a total of 128 participants. The morning conditions were crisp and cool and we loved seeing the creativity of the "uniforms" different teams put together. We were proud to see so many participants get involved and also showcase many of the skills learned throughout their PE football unit. We appreciate the support of many teachers who helped make it a safe and fun event for all. Happy Thanksgiving!
‘Coats for Kids’ Drive
We are collecting winter coats for those in need. The coat drive is called “Coats for Kids”, but coats for all ages are more than welcomed. The collection box will be located in the Blake front lobby. Please check if you have any coats that your family no longer needs that can be donated. The collection will run up until winter vacation. Thank you for supporting this great cause!
Blood Drive for MLK, Jr. Weekend
** Please see message below from Cynthia McClelland...
Hello Medfield community,
I am proud to announce our annual MLK day blood drive, and it will be held at the middle school. Right now, we are looking for students to serve on the blood drive committee. Students on the committee will be responsible for organizing, promoting and supporting the Red Cross in running the blood drive the day of. If your child is interested they can reach out to Cynthia McClelland at [email protected]. The first meeting will be Friday, December 2.
Hearing and Vision Screening - 7th Grade
Hearing and vision screening will be held the week after Thanksgiving for all 7th grade students. The purpose of this screening as mandated by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health is to identify students who may have hearing or vision issues requiring medical follow up. The school nurses will be conducting the screenings for 7th graders during physical education classes on November 28th, 29th and 30th, 2022. If your child has contact lenses or glasses, please be sure your child wears his/her contacts or brings his/her glasses to school to use during the vision portion of the screening.
Please contact Tricia Williams via e-mail by next Monday, November 21st if you prefer your child not participate in the school’s hearing/vision screening. Please do not reply to this message, but email Tricia directly at [email protected] if you have any questions or are opting your child out of the screening.
Samaritans Information for 7th Grade Families - 12/5 at 6:30 p.m.
Suicide Prevention Workshop
We hope you will join us on Monday, December 5, 2022, at 6:30 p.m. via zoom for a Suicide Prevention Workshop presented by Samaritans, Inc. No one wants to think about their child dealing with thoughts of suicide, however, suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for youth ages 10-24 years old. This workshop on the 5th will give parents foundational knowledge and practical tools to talk with their children. Led by Samaritans, Inc., topics covered in this workshop will include:
- Suicide risk factors and warning signs
- Coping skills and resiliency building
- Facts, figures, and myth-busting
- Best practices for talking to and helping someone who may be suicidal
- School and community resources
On Wednesday, December 7, 2022, Samaritans, Inc. will be presenting this Suicide Prevention Workshop to all 7th-grade students. Our goals in participating in this program are straightforward:
- To help our students understand that depression is a treatable illness, and help them assess whether or not they may have symptoms consistent with depression.
- To explain that suicide is a preventable tragedy that can occur as a result of untreated depression.
- To provide students training in how to identify serious depression and potential suicidality in a friend.
- To impress upon our students that they can help themselves or a friend by taking a simple step of talking to a responsible adult about their concerns.
Following the Samaritans, Inc. presentation on the 7th, students will complete a depression screening. If a student completes the screening and there is a concern, please know that counselors will be available all day to meet with students and then follow up with a phone call to parents/guardians regarding next steps. If you do NOT wish for your child to take the screening for depression and/or participate in the suicide prevention training in school, please email Stacy Burns at [email protected]. If we do not hear from you, your child will participate in this program.
I will send a reminder following the Thanksgiving break, as well as the zoom link prior to the presentation. We hope you will join us virtually on December 5th. The presentation will be recorded and shared with families following the event. Please reach out to either myself, Stacy Burns (Adjustment Counselor), or Tracy Allen (Guidance Counselor) with any questions.
Sincerely,
Stephanie A Worthley
K-12 Guidance Department Chair
Reminders for Blake Families
Lost and Found
We have a lot of items in our lost and found bins; if you are missing clothing, water bottles or other items please encourage your child to check out the lost and found stations. You are welcome to stop by Blake after school daily from 2:15-3:00. We will be donating unclaimed items on December 23rd.
Candy and Lollipops
We have noticed an increased trend of students bringing in candies and bags of lollipops to be shared with other students. With concerns about allergens and the increased amount of litter (sticks, wrappers left on the floor), we are asking that all students refrain from bringing these items to school.
Medfield School Committee - Informal Conversation (12/3 at 10 a.m.)
The School Committee welcomes the community to join us for an informal conversation on Saturday, December 3, 2022 from 10:00 am - 11:00 am in the conference room (lower level) at Medfield Public Library (468 Main Street).
Two school committee members will be available to meet with the public to discuss any topic related to the schools. Because only two committee members are present, the session is not an official School Committee meeting and therefore open dialogue is permitted (more than two members would constitute quorum and then require an official business meeting and set agenda as per Mass. Open Meeting Law).
Please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/EFjBJkAZ2yfPQfJP7 before attending. This will give SC members an opportunity to get additional info on potential discussion topics.
Please email [email protected] with any questions. Hope to see you there!
National Science Bee
Registration is now open for the National Science Bee. Registration is free and easy! Click on this link National Science Bee for information and click on this link to navigate to the qualifying event (20 min Online Regional Qualifying exam.
Students compete in separate grade divisions to keep things fair and fun. Study guides and free practice questions from past years' competitions can be found on this website.
MakerSpace Materials
Thanks to all who have been bringing in cardboard for the Makerspace. We are all stocked up for the moment! But, there is always a need for different kinds of tape, hot glue sticks,small binder clips, brad fasteners, small magnets, popsicle sticks, etc.- basic office supplies/crafty stuff.
Blake Battles Bias
Blake Battles Bias will meet on Monday, November 28th in room 418. All interested 7th and 8th graders are welcome.
Private School Applications
For those families looking to apply to private school for next year, please make sure all materials (all teacher recommendation forms, transcript request, an 8x11 envelope and 4 stamps per envelope) are to the guidance office at least 3 weeks prior to the application due date. We want to make sure the teachers have sufficient time to provide thoughtful letters for all students applying. If the forms will be sent electronically to the teachers, please e-mail Mrs. Avery and your student's guidance counselor to inform them. Mrs. Avery tracks all applications and makes sure they get out in time. Any questions, please contact Mr. Marenghi (6th), Ms. Allen (7th), or Mrs. Dondero (8th).
Recess Reminder for All Parents/Guardians
This is a gentle reminder to families that students are going outside for recess and should bring weather-appropriate clothing like winter jackets and gloves so that they will be warm outdoors.
Reminder for all Blake Students and Families - Gift Giving
This is a reminder that as a school we will not be orchestrating 'Secret Santa' type activities for students in which gifts are being purchased and/or given. For a number of reasons, school is not the proper forum for the exchange of gifts, and we appreciate your understanding and support.
Angel Run Poster Making Party
Attention Blakers! There will be a poster party after school in the cafeteria on 11/29 from 2:15 to 3:15 to make posters for the Angel Run running route! This is a great way to get an hour of service to give back to the Medfield community!
Class of 2024 Fundraisers
Medfield Phone Wallets - Class of 2024
Your purchase will go a long way by helping fund for class events like prom and the senior cruise!
Limited supply so order now!
$10 per wallet
To order, DM @classof24stugov on instagram
Wreath Order Form - Class of 2024
The MHS class of 2024 is selling real wreaths to support their class and the Medfield community. Order forms need to be completed BY December 1st. All checks need to be received at Medfield High School attention Class of 2024 (88R South St) for $35 by December 1st to ensure your order is placed. We also take cash
!!There will be a box in the MHS office for the checks or cash to be put in!!
These wreaths are the perfect way to decorate your house and front door, or give as a gift to your friends and family! Welcome the holiday season and the new year with these wreaths. There will be free delivery for homes in Medfield and pickup at MHS will also be available. (These are REAL wreaths).
Wreath Order Form
Late Bus For MS/HS Students
Late bus service runs Monday through Thursday departing from outside the auditorium entrance at Medfield High School at 3:45 PM. We are unable to provide door-to-door service, but our bus company established a route with seven stops strategically placed throughout the town. These stops will remain consistent throughout the year.
Stop 1 - Corner of Lantern and Flintlocke
Stop 2 - Corner of Blacksmith and Marilyn
Stop 3 - Corner of Bridge and Marsh
Stop 4 - Corner of Algonquin and Orchard
Stop 5 - Corner of Indian Hill and Hopi
Stop 6 - Corner of South and Wilson
Stop 7 - Corner of Hummingbird and Granite
We will run this pilot throughout the 2022-2023 school year and then evaluate the interest for next year. Please contact the business office at 508-359-2302 if you have any questions.
Blake Yearbook Info
CLICK HERE for yearbook ordering information!
Blake Winter Sports Update
Registration for Blake Middle School winter athletics is now open on FamilyID.com. There is a direct link off the Athletics page (under Activities) on Blake Middle School site. To complete registration, I will also need a check for $225 (Made out to “Town of Medfield”).
*Blake Middle School Sports offered for the winter season are:
Girls Basketball (8th grade Girls)
Boys Basketball (8th grade Boys)
Blake’s Pride Alliance
We are pleased to announce that the club formerly known as Blake GSA is now called Pride Alliance! This more inclusive name better represents the values of our club, where we strive to create a safe space for people in the community, those who want to learn more about the LGBTQIA+ community, and also those who wish to learn how to become a better ally. Meetings are every Thursday until 2:45 in room 502. Everyone is welcome to join, regardless of identity.
Blake Student Council
Blake’s Student Council meets every Wednesday afternoon from 2:15-2:45 in Mrs. Shaw’s room (525). All are welcome to join - the more members we have, the more we can accomplish! Spread the word!
Substitute Applications
Blake is always looking for substitute teacher applicants. Applicants need not have teaching licensure but should be energetic, flexible and enjoy working with children. For more information or to apply, please visit Medfield Public Schools - Employment Opportunities and look under ‘Substitute Teaching’. Please contact Marcia Berkowtiz ([email protected]) with any questions.
Medfield K-8 PTO Dues Flyer - 2022
Dear Medfield Families:
The Medfield K-8 Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) would like to extend a warm welcome to all new and returning families to the 2022-2023 school year! The K-8 PTO is a volunteer organization that supports initiatives, activities and events designed to enrich and supplement the educational experiences of every Medfield K-8 student. Each school has its own PTO
Board that works closely with the staff to provide opportunities tailored specifically to that school. We come together as a K-8 organization during the school year to share ideas, fundraising opportunities and provide
financial support across the district.
HOW CAN YOU SUPPORT THE MEDFIELD K-8 PTO?
● Contribute – The K-8 PTO runs entirely on donations! Last school year, we started 2 new traditions: K-8 Medfield Madness Online Auction and the K-5 Rainbow Run. We are excited to announce that Medfield Madness will be back this school year and the Rainbow Run is planned for Fall of 2023. We are thankful for the support of so many to make both fundraisers a huge success.
Today we are asking for your support to kick off the new school year with our Annual Dues Drive. The need is always greater than what we can fund throughout the year, so every dollar raised is appreciated. The suggested $30 per student amount is just a guideline - all donations welcome! You can now pay your dues online through Venmo or PayPal, as well as by check.
● Volunteer – The K-8 PTO needs you! We encourage you to attend school PTO meetings and become involved. Our online volunteer sign-up form is a great way to stay informed. There is no obligation to volunteer. As events are created and/or volunteer opportunities arise those on the distribution will be the first to know. Please sign up today by visiting www.medfieldk8pto.com.
Thank you for your continued support. It’s going to be a year to remember, and we look forward to supporting each and every child inside and outside of the classroom!
Sincerely,
Nicole Drummond
K-8 PTO President
Webinars/Workshops of Interest
Game Changer Series: A Conversation with Zoe Weil, Dr. Kristin Alford, Laura McBain, & Aubrey Yee
Thursday, 12/1 at 7:00 p.m.
Join us for a conversation with four brilliant futurists as we discuss the need to educate not one, but multiple generations of teachers and students who will intentionally shape the future of society, and do it in a way that avoids negative, unintended consequences, resulting in a world that is more just, more equitable, and fully sustainable. It will surely be a wonderful unpacking of all that is #shapingthefuture!
Mental Wellness During Stressful Times - Your Questions Answered!
Thursday, 12/8 at 7:00 p.m.
SPARK Kindness presents a panel discussion: Mental Wellness During Stressful Times with Ned Johnson, Janine Halloran, and Christine Guthery
For parents, caregivers, educators, and community members of all ages
SPARK has assembled a team of experts to help you survive and thrive during this busy end of year season! Author/expert Ned Johnson, Licensed Mental Health Counselor Janine Halloran, and SPARK founder Christine Guthery will offer practical strategies to support you and your loved ones. All are welcome - questions can be submitted anonymously. Join the village - we are all connected!
ASL Interpretation will be provided at this event.
Demystifying Systemic Social and Emotional Learning: 10-Part Series
Friday, December 18 and Friday, December 16 at 11 a.m.
Educators around the globe are seeing an increase in demand and attention to social and emotional learning (SEL) to create successful and equitable outcomes for young people. As a result, education leaders are grappling with what high-quality, systemic social and emotional learning looks like in schools, what the current research says, and what policies will best support students.
This monthly series of thought leadership webinars addresses ten key aspects of high-quality systemic SEL. Join CASEL and collaborators for insights on prioritizing academic, social, and emotional learning for all students across all school contexts
Recommended for: Education leaders and researchers at the state, district, and school levels.
UPCOMING SESSION DATES & TOPICS:
Part 9 — November 18
Demystifying Systemic Social & Emotional Learning: Family Partnerships
Part 10 — December 16
Demystifying Systemic Social & Emotional Learning: Community Partnerships