Nat Vaughn, Blake Principal

Week of 3/24/20-3/30/20

3/25/2020

Important Dates
** All ‘school activities’ have been postponed or cancelled during our ‘remote learning’ hiatus from school. As more dates are known, we will be updating them.

Topic/Question for the Dinner Table
To help encourage conversations and dialogue about identifying and sharing how we can take care of ourselves, our topic/question for the week is: What strategies do you use to practice self-care and nurture your own well-being? Practicing Self-Care (Week of 3/23/20-3/27/20) (This is an anonymous Google Form)

Blake At-Home Learning Considerations and Guidelines, March 2020 **
In an effort to help provide some structure/parameters/guidelines for students and families who are looking for it, we have created a potential template for students and families during our ‘time period of remote learning’. Please know that this is ‘one template’ that can be adapted/adjusted to meet the needs of your children and your family. We encourage you to take a look, talk it through with your children, and make it your own…
Blake At-Home Learning Considerations and Guidelines, March 2020
** For Parents/Guardians: Please give yourself permission to try things out, make mistakes, adjust, and move forward. There is no one right path for parenting, teaching, and learning. We care deeply for all of your children and our commitment is to 'meet them where they are at' and help them (and you as families) to grow and move forward.

Update for Blake Families - 3/17/20
Below please find a link to the note sent to all Blake families on 3/17/20...
Update for Blake Families - 3/17/20

Message to all Blake Students and Families - 3/23/20
Please know we are thinking of you, missing you, and wishing you and your families the very best. We have put together a Flipgrid 'message' from the staff to all of the students - take a look and enjoy...
Message to Blake Students/Families - 3/23/20
** As noted in the e-mail to students, please take some time to remind them of the importance of respecting 'digital spaces' and not resharing/reposting videos without permission.

Resources from Guidance
During the extended school closure, Guidance Counselor are available to our students and families through a variety of means, email, phone, virtual meetings. The Guidance Counselors will send out a daily check-in email each morning, and be available for students by phone and/or virtual meetings. Should you or your student require additional emotional support, please refer to either of the following:
Interface (888-244-6843)
Riverside Community Care (800) 529-5077
You can find additional resources and information on the following pages:
https://www.medfieldsel.com/covid-19-sel-resources--tools.html
https://blakeguidancepage.weebly.com/covid-19.html

Resources from Office of Social and Emotional Learning
We would like to let you know about some resources and tools in relation to SEL in our district. The Office of Social and Emotional Learning has content related to COVID-19 coping strategies, tips and tools for families to utilize. We have broken the material into Elementary and Secondary levels, and have a section for Educators as well. We also want to let you know that we have partnered with many other districts in the state to form a collaborative, comprehensive and ever evolving website that has lots of great information that may help with mental health and wellbeing in this tumultuous time. We hope these resources can be a tool to support health and wellness in our community. The websites are listed below:
Medfield Office of SEL
Mental Health and Well-being Partner Website

Blake ‘EdChats’ - March, 2020
We are trying out some ‘edchats’ with Blake teachers/staff as a way to connect and share what we are thinking and talking about as a community of learners. Each chat will have a particular focus and we will take some time to talk through a few questions. Check out our first chat with Jason Heim, Orla Berry, Brian Gavaghan, Susan Bycoff, Marissa Gumas, and Diane Horvath - more to come...
Adapting and Learning - EdChat # 1(Learning)

Forms for All Incoming 6th-8th Grade Parents/Guardians
All incoming 6th-8th grade parents/guardians must complete these course selection form…
2020-2021 Blake Middle School Music Selection
2020-2021 Blake Middle School World Language Selection

Parent/Guardian Input Information for 2019-2020
** Timeline has been extended to Friday, March 30
Parental/guardian input is an important part of our planning purposes for the 2019-2020 academic year. Please refer to the placement for the 2020-2021 academic year...Blake Parent/Guardian Input Letter Spring 2020 regarding our process and the guidelines for input. If you are interested in sharing information, please submit your thoughts in writing not later than Friday, March 30. As stated in the letter, written requests for specific teachers will not be entertained or accepted. Your letter should be addressed to your child's guidance counselor and Assistant Principal, Kelly Campbell. Guidance counselors for next year will be Jen Dondero (Grade 6), Matt Marenghi (Grade 7), and Tracy Allen (Grade 8).

For Incoming 6th Grade Parents/Guardians
For your reference, I have copied the link to the presentation and handout along with the Program of Studies 3/4/20…
Blake Incoming 6th PIN March 2020 Presentation for Blog
Blake Parent/Guardian Resources 2020-2021
Blake Program of Studies 2020-2021

Incoming 7th/8th Grade Parents/Guardians
For your reference, I have copied the links that were created for the Incoming 7th/8th Parent/Guardian Information Night…
Blake Incoming 7th/8th PIN March 2020 Presentation for Blog
Blake Parent/Guardian Resources 2020-2021
Blake Program of Studies 2020-2021

Remote Harmony Day at Blake - 3/31/20
On Tuesday, March 31st, the Blake GSA invites you to participate in a remote Harmony Day! Harmony Day was started at the high school several years ago as a way to show support for the LGBTQ+ community! Next Tuesday, wear a GREEN shirt and take a selfie to show your support for the LGBTQ+ people in your lives! Email your selfie to Mrs. Cuomo (acuomo@email.medfield.net) or Ms. Malone (emalone@email.medfield.net)!

Blake is Social - Submit Ideas!
Blake is Social is looking for posts. We would love to see what people are doing at home. Working on your next soccer or gymnastics move? How about some great photography or art? Writing a poem? Or acting out a scene? We would love material. Please send it to Mrs. McClelland : cmcclelland@email.medfield.net

Nature’s Classroom Info for Current Sixth Grade Families
The Information Packet and the Forms to Fill out are linked below for our fall trip to Nature’s Classroom. The 2020 trip to Nature’s Classroom will be Tuesday, October 20 to Friday, October 23. The cost of the trip will be $495.00 and a deposit of $250.00 is due on Monday, April 13, 2020. The balance of $245.00 will be due on Friday, May 15, 2020.Cost is never a reason for a child not to attend the trip. Please reach out to Nat Vaughn nvaughn@email.medfield.net if this is a concern for you.
Nature’s Classroom Information 2020
Nature’s Classroom Forms to Fill Out 2020

In preparation for the trip an updated physical must be on file. If you have any medical/health concerns, please e-mail directly to Mrs. Williams at twilliams@email.medfield.net. Please contact Judy Silva, jsilva@email.medfield.net if you have any questions about Nature’s Classroom.

Mathematics Placement Process
Math teachers at Blake will soon start the process of course placement for the 2020-2021 school year. The goal of the process is to see that every student is placed in a class that allows them to learn math well while feeling good about their efforts. For current 6th and 7th grade students, decisions on student placement are made by considering current class performance, placement test grades, MCAS scores and teacher recommendations. For current 8th grade students, placement is determined by success in their current class level and teacher recommendation. We are very mindful during this time to consider the whole child while making these decisions. Additionally, it is important to us that parents feel they have a voice in this process. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to your child's teacher. If your questions involve long-term planning for math, do not hesitate to email Jess Safer, Math Department Chair at jsafer@email.medfield.net. Thank you!

School Survey
The Blake Site Council has taken time to review the data collected from last year's survey and an Executive Summary will be distributed to families in the coming weeks. Focus areas on the survey centered on the topics of school culture, academic workloads, stress, and habits. Our intent is to distribute the 2019-2020 survey soon with the hopes of gathering the data in the next couple of weeks. Stay tuned!

Blake PTO Update
We want to remind everyone that the Blake PTO Annual Appeal is still happening! While Blake is currently conducting learning from home, we’re hopeful that it will be business as usual again soon. And when that time comes, the Blake PTO would like to be ready to help fund initiatives and activities for the students! Please visit MedfieldK8PTO.com to contribute to the Annual Appeal. While we are suggesting $50/child, we understand these are uncertain times for many and will gratefully accept any amount you are comfortable contributing.

Week of 3/10/20-3/16/20

3/11/2020

Important Dates
3/11 - Blake PTO Meeting - 7 p.m.
3/12 - Incoming 7th Grade Nature’s Classroom Info Session (6:00 p.m.)
           Incoming 7th/8th Parent/Guardian Info Night (6:30 p.m.)
3/16 - Blake Site Council Mtg - 3:30 p.m.
           Safe and Inclusive Parent/Community Presentation (6:00 p.m.) - see details
           below
3/17 - Worcester Art Museum Field Trip (White Cluster)
3/18 - Worcester Art Museum Field Trip (Red Cluster)
3/19 - Worcester Art Museum Field Trip (Blue Cluster)
           Blake STEM Event (see details below)
3/20 - Term 2 Ends
3/23 - Safe and Inclusive Learning Environment Discussions - Grade 6
           Screenagers - The Next Chapter (see below)
3/24 - Safe and Inclusive Learning Environment Discussions - Grade 7
3/26 - Safe and Inclusive Learning Environment Discussions - Grade 8
3/26 - Term 2 Report Cards go home

Topic/Question for the Dinner Table
To help encourage conversations and dialogue about identifying and sharing what we each need to become better learners, our topic/question for the week is: What support(s) do you need to help you become an expert learner? Share why this/these support(s) will help you along this path. Expert Learners (Week of 3/9-3/13) (This is an anonymous Google Form)

Fostering A Safe and Inclusive Learning Environment for Our Students and Community - Monday, March 16 at 6:00 p.m.
Schools are supposed to be a place where all students can learn. They need to be a place where students can explore who they are and find their strengths and work on their weaknesses. All groups should be accepted so that they can flourish and become contributing members of society. - Peter DeWitt
Please join us for an introductory parent/community presentation and discussion with Colby Swettberg (see bio below), Elijah Oyenuga (see bio below), and Blake educators as we discuss how to best foster a safe learning environment for our community, specifically our LGBTQ+ youth and families. As outlined below, this event will lay the foundation for our upcoming work we will be doing with our students, staff, and the greater community to assure an inclusive atmosphere of respect, acceptance, and understanding. It is an opportunity for parents and community members to learn more about this endeavor and get answers to questions that exist. The evening will include...

Sharing of vocabulary, terminology, and legal updates/implications for schools
Panel discussion of educators, parents, and mental health providers
Outline future programming for Blake students (see timeline below)
Question and answer forum

See links below to read more information about the evening and to RSVP for this event…
Safe and Inclusive Learning Environment Evening 3/16/20 - Blake Communication
RSVP - Safe and Inclusive Learning Environment Parent/Community Evening (3/16/20)
** Colby Swettberg's Bio...
Colby Swettberg (they/them) earned a Masters degree in Education at Harvard's Graduate School of Education with a focus on LGBTQ issues. Colby is a former high school English teacher who started the first gay-straight alliance in the district where Swettberg taught. Colby later went on to help start Waltham House, the first co-ed group home for LGBTQ youth in the country. The Massachusetts Department of Children & Families hired Colby and a team of trainers to conduct LGBTQ sensitivity training for over two thousand social workers in the Commonwealth. This training initiative set a national precedent which Colby has helped other states to replicate. As Colby’s professional focus gravitated toward child welfare, Swettberg returned to graduate school to complete a Master of Social Work and has continued to work with systems involving young people for nearly 20 years.
** Elijah Oyenuga’s Bio
Elijah Oyenuga is an LGBT Inclusion and Awareness Consultant, a GSA Support Coordinator for Boston Public Schools and a senior at Lesley University. Elijah started his career working as a Peer Leader for Boston Gay Lesbian Adolescent Social Services (GLASS) where he first learned to facilitate LGBT cultural competency/responsiveness workshops, delivered in the public schools, focused on creating understanding, awareness, and respect in order to stop the bullying and exclusion faced by many LGBT youth. Since then, Elijah has worked for the DESE’s Safe Schools program, guiding administrators on the path to providing safe and supportive environments for LGBT students, and now he continues to support LGBT youth and allies through the support of Gender-Sexuality Alliances and as an LGBT Safe and Supportive Environments (SSE) educator. Through navigating the tangled webs of mental health, gender identity, and existing in a world that has stigmatized and politicized his existence as a transgender black man, Elijah Oyenuga approaches life and activism with one truth in mind: change can be brought about through visibility, respectfully educating others, and an understanding and love for ourselves and those who challenge our ability to exist as we are.

3/12 - Incoming 7th/8th Grade Parent Night at 6:30 p.m.
** Nature’s Classroom Info Session for Incoming 7th parents starts at 6:00 p.m.
This night is for all parents/guardians of incoming seventh and eighth grade (current sixth and seventh grade) students. We will be sharing information about the 7th and 8th grade program of studies and curriculum, previewing the students' experience that they will have next year.

For Incoming 6th Grade Parents/Guardians
For your reference, I have copied the link to the presentation and handout along with the Program of Studies 3/4/20…
Blake Incoming 6th PIN March 2020 Presentation for Blog
Blake Parent/Guardian Resources 2020-2021
Blake Program of Studies 2020-2021
Below please find links to the Course Selection Google Forms that all incoming 6th grade parents/guardians must complete…
2020-2021 Blake Middle School Music Selection
2020-2021 Blake Middle School World Language Selection

Music Ensemble Selection - All Incoming 6th-8th Grade Parents/Guardians
All incoming 6th-8th grade parents/guardians must complete this course selection form…
2020-2021 Blake Middle School Music Selection

Nature’s Classroom Info for Current Sixth Grade Families
We are looking forward to meeting you at the presentation on the seventh grade Nature’s Classroom trip during Parent Information Night on Thursday, March 12, 2020. The Information Packet and the Forms to Fill out are attached to this email. Please print out the forms single sided. The forms need to go to different people at Nature’s Classroom. Paper copies are available in the guidance office and from the sixth grade cluster leaders.
Nature’s Classroom Information 2020
Nature’s Classroom Forms to Fill Out 2020
The 2020 trip to Nature’s Classroom will be Tuesday, October 20 to Friday, October 23. The cost of the trip will be $495.00 and a deposit of $250.00 is due on Monday, April 13, 2020. The balance of $245.00 will be due on Friday, May 15, 2020.Cost is never a reason for a child not to attend the trip. Please reach out to Nat Vaughn nvaughn@email.medfield.net if this is a concern for you.

In preparation for the trip an updated physical must be on file. Please submit your child’s 6th grade physical to Mrs. Williams as soon as possible. You may send it in with your child, or email directly to Mrs. Williams at twilliams@email.medfield.net. Please contact Judy Silva, jsilva@email.medfield.net if you have any questions.

Forms for All Incoming 6th-8th Grade Parents/Guardians
All incoming 6th-8th grade parents/guardians must complete these course selection form…
2020-2021 Blake Middle School Music Selection
2020-2021 Blake Middle School World Language Selection

Advisory Update for Blake
In Advisory this week, students and advisors will be focusing on mindfulness and music. Advisories will be reading a short article about mindfulness, listening to music to get in tune with how it affects them, and reporting back. Students may also try staying silent for a set amount of time in an effort to refocus. Finally, students will be encouraged to create a playlist of few songs that help them focus and get into a good state of mind to use in the future.
Blake Wednesday Advisory Website

Parent/Guardian Input Information for 2019-2020
Parental/guardian input is an important part of our planning purposes for the 2019-2020 academic year. Please refer to the placement for the 2020-2021 academic year...Blake Parent/Guardian Input Letter Spring 2020 regarding our process and the guidelines for input. If you are interested in sharing information, please submit your thoughts in writing not later than Friday, March 16. As stated in the letter, written requests for specific teachers will not be entertained or accepted. Your letter should be addressed to your child's guidance counselor and Assistant Principal, Kelly Campbell. Guidance counselors for next year will be Jen Dondero (Grade 6), Matt Marenghi (Grade 7), and Tracy Allen (Grade 8).

Worcester Art Museum Visit - 7th Grade
As part of the 7th grade Social Studies curriculum the 7th graders will be visiting the Worcester Art Museum in March. The White Cluster will visit the Worcester Art Museum on March 17th, Red Cluster, March 18th, and the Blue Cluster will visit on March 19th. As part of the visit the students will enjoy a guided tour of the Museum's Medieval galleries, students will also create their own "illuminated letter" as part of a workshop activity and, in addition, students will enjoy a demonstration of Medieval Armor conducted by Medieval Historian Neal Bourbeau. Students and teachers are excited about the experiential learning opportunities provided by this field trip and look forward to a great visit!

Next Chapter — SCREENAGERS
March 23, 2020 6:30-8:30 p.m. Medfield High School Auditorium
Screenagers: The Next Chapter is a 60 minute film about helping young people thrive in our screen and stress-filled world. The screening of the film will be followed by a panel discussion with experts in the areas of screen time, mental health, and school administration. Parents/guardians and children age 10 and up are invited to attend together.
This film will be shown during the school day of March 19 to all Medfield High School students in Grades 9-11. Please join us to watch the film the following week so that you are able to discuss the content of the film your student. This film is great for parents of any age child, as the content will be applicable to most families at some point in the near future. There is a solid focus on screentime, but also on managing mental health in your soon to be teen/tween.

Mathematics Placement Process
Math teachers at Blake will soon start the process of course placement for the 2020-2021 school year. The goal of the process is to see that every student is placed in a class that allows them to learn math well while feeling good about their efforts. For current 6th and 7th grade students, decisions on student placement are made by considering current class performance, placement test grades, MCAS scores and teacher recommendations. For current 8th grade students, placement is determined by success in their current class level and teacher recommendation. We are very mindful during this time to consider the whole child while making these decisions. Additionally, it is important to us that parents feel they have a voice in this process. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to your child's teacher. If your questions involve long-term planning for math, do not hesitate to email Jess Safer, Math Department Chair at jsafer@email.medfield.net. Thank you!

Putting for Patients - 3/22/20
On Sunday, March 22nd from 12:00-3:00pm, Medfield High School’s Student Council is partnering with the Jimmy Fund to put on our 6th Putting for Patients event! Bring your family and friends to the MHS gym to take part in the 18 hole mini-golf course, hole-in-one contest, opportunity drawing, caricaturist, and photo booth! The link below contains all the information for the event, as well as the link to register online. If you can’t make the event but would still like to contribute, the same link doubles as our donation page. All contributions go directly to the Jimmy Fund to find a cure for cancer! We’ve raised over $24,000 through our years with the Jimmy Fund. Contact medfieldstuco@gmail.com if you have any questions.
Here is the link to donate/register: http://danafarber.jimmyfund.org/goto/p4pmedfield
Hope to see you there!
Sincerely,
Medfield High School Student Council

Blake STEM Event - 3/19/20
Our fifth annual celebration of our students and STEM will be held at 3:30 pm on Thursday March 19, 2020. All BMS students are invited to participate as individuals or in groups (single or multi grade) and show their passion for or interest in answering some question or learning more about a particular topic - including but not limited to - recent genius hour projects, maker space projects or personal interest projects or investigations. General information was sent to students and their families via email recently.

Jazz Night - 4/15 at 7 p.m.
The Medfield Music Association is excited to announce that Jazz Night, presented by Needham Bank, will be taking place on April 15, 7pm, at MHS. Guest artist, renowned trumpeter, composer, and professor of music Alex Lee-Clark will be working in pre-event clinics with students, and then sharing the stage on Jazz Night with Medfield's own MHS Jazz Ensemble, MHS Jazz Choir, Junior Jazz Choir, Blake Middle School Jazz Ensemble & Junior Jazz Lab. Tickets available at medfieldmusicassociation.com or at the door.

Save the Date - Miss Amazing (3/28/20)
Massachusetts Miss Amazing is coming to Medfield High School for its seventh annual event! Miss Amazing’s mission statement reads, “Miss Amazing provides opportunities for girls and women with disabilities to build confidence and self-esteem in a supportive environment.” Join us in supporting this goal and giving these girls and young women an opportunity to shine. This full-day event is Saturday, March 28th, 2020 and will be held in the Medfield High School Auditorium at 6 PM. Ticket sales are open to the public beginning on March 14th at ma.missamazing.org. If you would like to donate, visit https://missamazing.org/donate/. If you want to volunteer with the event, you can sign up to be a buddy, half day volunteer (helping hand), or a right hand man online at https://missamazing.org/volunteer/. If you know a girl or young woman who might want to participate in this event, refer them to the Miss Amazing website so they can learn more! Sign up a participant at https://missamazing.org/participate/. See you there!

School Survey
The Blake Site Council has taken time to review the data collected from last year's survey and an Executive Summary will be distributed to families in the coming weeks. Focus areas on the survey centered on the topics of school culture, academic workloads, stress, and habits. Our intent is to distribute the 2019-2020 survey in early Marchin the hopes of gathering the data by the end of March. Stay tuned!

Blake PTO Update
Our ANNUAL APPEAL is underway! The Appeal, which replaces having the kids fundraise, allows the PTO to support educational activities and initiatives for your children! The PTO will have representatives at each of the upcoming PIN nights to answer any questions. Thank you in advance for your support!

Week of 3/3/20-3/9/20

3/3/2020

Important Dates
3/4 - Incoming 6th Parent/Guardian Info Night (6:30 p.m.)
3/11 - Blake PTO Meeting - 7 p.m.
3/12 - Incoming 7th Grade Nature’s Classroom Info Session (6:00 p.m.)
           Incoming 7th/8th Parent/Guardian Info Night (6:30 p.m.)
3/16 - Blake Site Council Mtg - 3:30 p.m.
           Safe and Inclusive Parent/Community Presentation (6:00 p.m.) - see details
           below
3/17 - Worcester Art Museum Field Trip (White Cluster)
3/18 - Worcester Art Museum Field Trip (Red Cluster)
3/19 - Worcester Art Museum Field Trip (Blue Cluster)
           Blake STEM Event (see details below)
3/20 - Term 2 Ends
3/23 - Safe and Inclusive Learning Environment Discussions - Grade 6
           Screenagers - The Next Chapter (see below)
3/24 - Safe and Inclusive Learning Environment Discussions - Grade 7
3/26 - Safe and Inclusive Learning Environment Discussions - Grade 8
3/27 - Term 2 Report Cards go home

Topic/Question for the Dinner Table
To help encourage conversations and dialogue about the environments and conditions that need to be in place for learning, our topic/question for the week is: What needs to be in place to help you learn? Environments for Learning (Week of 3/2-3/6) (This is an anonymous Google Form)

Term 2 Interim Reports
All outstanding interim report 'sign-off' sheets need to be handed into advisors asap.

Parent Information Nights - Mark Your Calendars!
3/4 - Incoming 6th Grade Parent Night at 6:30 p.m.
This night is for all parents/guardians of incoming sixth grade (current fifth grade) students. We will be presenting information about the 6th grade program of studies and curriculum, previewing the students' experience that they will have next year along with an overview of the middle school. A more detailed presentation about the logistics of the 2020-2021 academic year’s mobile learning Initiative will take place during this evening as well.

3/12 - Incoming 7th/8th Grade Parent Night at 6:30 p.m.
** Nature’s Classroom Info Session for Incoming 7th parents starts at 6:00 p.m.
This night is for all parents/guardians of incoming seventh grade (current sixth grade) students. We will be sharing information about the 7th and 8th grade program of studies and curriculum, previewing the students' experience that they will have next year.

Forms for All Incoming 6th-8th Grade Parents/Guardians
All incoming 6th-8th grade parents/guardians must complete these course selection form…
2020-2021 Blake Middle School Music Selection
2020-2021 Blake Middle School World Language Selection

Advisory Update for Blake
In Advisory this week, there will be a team-bulding activity. Each Advisory will choose their activity for this day.
Blake Wednesday Advisory Website

Fostering A Safe and Inclusive Learning Environment for Our Students and Community - Monday, March 16 at 6:00 p.m.
Schools are supposed to be a place where all students can learn. They need to be a place where students can explore who they are and find their strengths and work on their weaknesses. All groups should be accepted so that they can flourish and become contributing members of society. - Peter DeWitt
Please join us for an introductory parent/community presentation and discussion with Colby Swettberg (see bio below) and Blake educators as we discuss how to best foster a safe learning environment for our community, specifically our LGBTQ+ youth and families. As outlined below, this event will lay the foundation for our upcoming work we will be doing with our students, staff, and the greater community to assure an inclusive atmosphere of respect, acceptance, and understanding. It is an opportunity for parents and community members to learn more about this endeavor and get answers to questions that exist. The evening will include...

Sharing of vocabulary, terminology, and legal updates/implications for schools
Panel discussion of educators, parents, and mental health providers
Outline future programming for Blake students (see timeline below)
Question and answer forum

Mathematics Placement Process
Math teachers at Blake will soon start the process of course placement for the 2020-2021 school year. The goal of the process is to see that every student is placed in a class that allows them to learn math well while feeling good about their efforts. For current 6th and 7th grade students, decisions on student placement are made by considering current class performance, placement test grades, MCAS scores and teacher recommendations. For current 8th grade students, placement is determined by success in their current class level and teacher recommendation. We are very mindful during this time to consider the whole child while making these decisions. Additionally, it is important to us that parents feel they have a voice in this process. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to your child's teacher. If your questions involve long-term planning for math, do not hesitate to email Jess Safer, Math Department Chair at jsafer@email.medfield.net. Thank you!

Blake STEM Event - 3/19/20
Our fifth annual celebration of our students and STEM will be held at 3:30 pm on Thursday March 19, 2020. All BMS students are invited to participate as individuals or in groups (single or multi grade) and show their passion for or interest in answering some question or learning more about a particular topic - including but not limited to - recent genius hour projects, maker space projects or personal interest projects or investigations. General information was sent to students and their families via email recently.

Parking Reminder
This is a general reminder to all parents to be sure to follow the parking regulations in the parking lots and around the 'flagpole circle'. When dropping off or picking up students, vehicles should not be parked ('stationary' or 'live') in the fire zone. We need to make sure that we are providing a safe environment at all times for our students and community. Thank you for your cooperation.

Blake Softball Interest?
We are looking for 7th and 8th grade girls interested in playing softball. All skill levels are welcome. At the middle school level it is not too late to pick up this sport, so we do welcome those who've never played. If interested please sign up, or reach out to Cynthia McClelland, my email is: cmcclelland@email.medfield.net

Save the Date - Miss Amazing (3/28/20)
Massachusetts Miss Amazing is coming to Medfield High School for its seventh annual event! Miss Amazing’s mission statement reads, “Miss Amazing provides opportunities for girls and women with disabilities to build confidence and self-esteem in a supportive environment.” Join us in supporting this goal and giving these girls and young women an opportunity to shine. This full-day event is Saturday, March 28th, 2020 and will be held in the Medfield High School Auditorium at 6 PM. Ticket sales are open to the public beginning on March 14th at ma.missamazing.org. If you would like to donate, visit https://missamazing.org/donate/. If you want to volunteer with the event, you can sign up to be a buddy, half day volunteer (helping hand), or a right hand man online at https://missamazing.org/volunteer/. If you know a girl or young woman who might want to participate in this event, refer them to the Miss Amazing website so they can learn more! Sign up a participant at https://missamazing.org/participate/. See you there!

School Survey
The Blake Site Council has taken time to review the data collected from last year's survey and an Executive Summary will be distributed to families in the coming weeks. Focus areas on the survey centered on the topics of school culture, academic workloads, stress, and habits. Our intent is to distribute the 2019-2020 survey in early Marchin the hopes of gathering the data by the end of March. Stay tuned!

Blake is Social - Any Submissions?
Blake is social is featuring baby pictures of noatible African American's on our story, and we've been asking students if they can guess who they are. As always we are looking for more entries. Our focus for this month is poetry . We just posted an amazing poem regarding depression on our website. If you have a poem to share we would love to have it. Work and submissions can be e-mailed to cmcclelland@email.medfield.net or blakeissocial@email.medfield.net

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 http://www.medfield.net/o/medfield-public-schools/page/employment-opportunites--7 and find applications under the tab "employment opportunities". Please contact Kelly Campbell at kcampbell@email.medfield.net with any questions.

Substitute Nurses
As with our teaching positions, from time to time our nurse, Tricia Williams, will be out of the building and we need a substitute nurse for these days. We are fortunate that we have several substitute nurses in the district who are able to work on those days. If you are a registered nurse and have an interest in potentially serving as a substitute throughout the year, please let us know. You can contact me (nvaughn@email.medfield.net) or Tricia Williams (twilliams@email.medfield.net). By the same token, if you have friends in the area who would have an interest in serving as a substitute, please let them know that they can contact us as well. The safety and well-being of our students is always our top priority, and we would appreciate your interest in one of these roles.

Blake PTO Update
Our ANNUAL APPEAL is underway! The Appeal, which replaces having the kids fundraise, allows the PTO to support educational activities and initiatives for your children! The PTO will have representatives at each of the upcoming PIN nights to answer any questions. Thank you in advance for your support!

Medfield Music Association
Medfield Music Association's monthly meeting will take place on Tuesday, March 3, at 7pm in the MHS band room. Meeting guest, Superintendent Jeff Marsden, will kick off the session with an overview of the district budgeting process, which will be followed by regular MMA business, including upcoming events and updates from music director Jason Bielik. All current music parents welcome!

Week of 2/25/20-3/2/20

2/25/2020

Important Dates
2/27 - Incoming 9th Info Night (see details below)
3/2 - Read Across America
3/4 - Incoming 6th Parent/Guardian Info Night (6:30 p.m.)
3/11 - Blake PTO Meeting - 7 p.m.
3/12 - Incoming 7th Grade Nature’s Classroom Info Session (6:00 p.m.)
           Incoming 7th/8th Parent/Guardian Info Night (6:30 p.m.)
3/16 - Blake Site Council Mtg - 3:30 p.m.
           Safe and Inclusive Parent/Community Presentation (6:00 p.m.) - see details
           below
3/17 - Worcester Art Museum Field Trip (White Cluster)
3/18 - Worcester Art Museum Field Trip (Red Cluster)
3/19 - Worcester Art Museum Field Trip (Blue Cluster)
           Blake STEM Event (see details below)
3/20 - Term 2 Ends

Topic/Question for the Dinner Table
To help encourage conversations and dialogue about the characteristics that foster learning, our topic/question for the week is: What qualities, behaviors, and attributes make someone a good learner? Why? A Focus on Learning (Week of 2/24-2/28) (This is an anonymous Google Form)

Advisory Update for Blake
In Advisory this week, clusters will be taking time to view the Black History Month timeline that includes major events and spotlights of the accomplishments of many Black Americans. Each Advisory contributed to this timeline. Once it has been viewed, students and staff will be reflecting on their learning experience and posting their thoughts on the bulletin board in front of the school. A big thank you to everyone who helped contribute to this masterpiece!
Blake Wednesday Advisory Website

Term 2 Interim Reports
All outstanding interim report signature sheets should be turned into advisors ASAP. If you have any questions about your child's work on the reports, please start by having a conversation with your own child. If questions still exist, you should contact the teacher directly to gain more insight.

Fostering A Safe and Inclusive Learning Environment for Our Students and Community - Monday, March 16 at 6:00 p.m.
Schools are supposed to be a place where all students can learn. They need to be a place where students can explore who they are and find their strengths and work on their weaknesses. All groups should be accepted so that they can flourish and become contributing members of society. - Peter DeWitt
Please join us for an introductory parent/community presentation and discussion with Colby Swettberg and Blake educators as we discuss how to best foster a safe learning environment for our community, specifically our LGBTQ+ youth and families. As outlined below, this event will lay the foundation for our upcoming work we will be doing with our students, staff, and the greater community to assure an inclusive atmosphere of respect, acceptance, and understanding. It is an opportunity for parents and community members to learn more about this endeavor and get answers to questions that exist. The evening will include...

Sharing of vocabulary, terminology, and legal updates/implications for schools
Panel discussion of educators, parents, and mental health providers
Outline future programming for Blake students (see timeline below)
Question and answer forum

Our primary goal at Blake is to establish an emotionally and physically safe and healthy learning environment for all of our students. In May, 2016 the entire Blake staff participated in a half-day workshop with Colby Swettberg (bio is copied below), a consultant who presented on the topic of Working Effectively With Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning (LBGTQ) Youth. Colby had previously presented at Medfield High School in December, 2015 and presented to the elementary school staff in February, 2017. In the spring of 2017, Colby worked closely with the Blake staff and community to provide a similar structure of learning for students, families, and community as outlined below. These workshops have been timely, enlightening, and meaningful. As a Blake staff we have discussed how we can carry forth this work for our students and believe that continuing to work with students, parents, and staff to provide ongoing support is a critical next step. In an effort to be consistent and have shared language and experiences, we have worked closely with Colby and their team to develop a program for all of our students as outlined below. We look forward to the important and meaningful work that lies ahead...

3/16 - Blake Staff Meeting - Workshop with Colby Swettberg
3/16 - Blake Site Council Meeting - Discussion with Blake Site Council (this meeting is open to all parents/guardians and community members)
3/16 - Parent/Guardian and Community Presentation/Discussion (see outline above)
3/23, 3/24, 3/26 - Work and Presentations with Blake students in Cluster and Advisories focused on fostering a safe learning environment for all of our students at Blake

Our core values at Blake help guide our work, and we must continue to remind and assure our students that Blake is a safe school for all students and adults and our efforts and expectations remain steadfast to both welcome and embrace all learners. Ours is a culture of acceptance and inclusivity, regardless of one's race, gender, religious beliefs, or sexual orientation. As such, it is important that we continue to live by these three principles...

Every individual at Blake (students, staff, parents, and the greater community) matters, is cared for, and is an important piece of the Blake fabric.
We are a community of learners who must 'practice what we preach'.
We must always be present and continue to be here for one another.

It is our belief and hope that this work will help to broaden our community’s (students, staff, and greater community) definition and understanding of acceptance and diversity to establish a safe and welcoming environment for all. We are excited about this work and look forward to enhancing the Blake culture of support and acceptance for our community. Please click this link to RSVP for our evening presentation...
Safe and Inclusive Learning Environment Parent/Community Evening (3/16/20)
** Colby Swettberg's Bio...
Colby Swettberg (they/them) earned a Masters degree in Education at Harvard's Graduate School of Education with a focus on LGBTQ issues. Colby is a former high school English teacher who started the first gay-straight alliance in the district where Swettberg taught. Colby later went on to help start Waltham House, the first co-ed group home for LGBTQ youth in the country. The Massachusetts Department of Children & Families hired Colby and a team of trainers to conduct LGBTQ sensitivity training for over two thousand social workers in the Commonwealth. This training initiative set a national precedent which Colby has helped other states to replicate. As Colby’s professional focus gravitated toward child welfare, Swettberg returned to graduate school to complete a Master of Social Work and has continued to work with systems involving young people for nearly 20 years.

Blake Reads Across America
Blake students and staff will be Reading Across America during Advisory periods on Monday, March 2. School kids from across the country will read that day to together celebrate the sheer joy of reading - no quizzes or discussions! The annual event takes place each year on March 2, which is Dr. Seuss' birthday. To ensure every Blake student has a great book for the event, the Blake Library Media Center is hosting an awesome book (both new and old) open house this week. Happy reading!

March is Women’s History Month
March 1 marks the beginning of Women’s History Month. Please share any ideas you have as to how we can recognize this month within the Blake community. Here are a couple of reads of interest…
What Schools Teach About Women’s History Leaves a Lot to Be Desired
The Long & Winding Road to Women’s Rights
Educational resources are available from federal sources and the National Women's History Museum, among others.

Blake STEM Event - 3/19/20
Our fifth annual celebration of our students and STEM will be held at 3:30 pm on Thursday March 19, 2020. All BMS students are invited to participate as individuals or in groups (single or multi grade) and show their passion for or interest in answering some question or learning more about a particular topic - including but not limited to - recent genius hour projects, maker space projects or personal interest projects or investigations. General information was sent to students and their families via email recently.

SBIRT Screenings and Protocol - Message for All 7th Grade Families
In response to the increase in drug and opioid use in Massachusetts, Governor Charlie Baker signed into law, “An Act relative to substance use, treatment, education and prevention” (H. No. 4056). Among its many components, this law mandates that school districts annually conduct verbal substance use screenings for one grade at the high school and one at the middle school. The goal of the program is to provide early identification and prevention of harm from substance use. School nurses will screen all 7th grade students using the SBIRT protocol (Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment) developed by the MA Dept of Public Health. The interview style screening will be conducted confidentially, in private one-on-one sessions using the CRAFFT II screening tool, the most commonly used substance use screening tool for adolescents in Massachusetts.

Students who report not using substances will have their healthy choices reinforced. The screener will provide brief feedback to any student who reports using substances. If appropriate, we will offer students a referral to counseling staff. This program focuses on prevention, and students’ responses will not lead to any disciplinary action. The results of the screening will not be included in students’ academic or health records. In keeping with M.G.L. Chapter 71, Section 97, information disclosed by students during verbal substance use screening is confidential, and unless a student is in immediate medical danger, parents will not be notified about the results of this screening.

If you have any questions about this program or prefer your child not participate in the screening, please contact Tricia Williams Blake School Nurse by Friday, February 14, 2020 at 508-242-8554 or email her directly at twilliams@email.medfield.net. This program is voluntary and students may choose to not answer any or all of the questions. Screenings will be conducted starting the week of February 24, 2020 for seventh grade students during their health classes. Postural and BMI (height/weight) screening is also being conducted for all seventh grade students during their physical education classes the same week. You may opt your child out of any of the screenings by conducting Tricia Williams as noted above.

As a child’s brain is not fully developed during adolescence, substance use during this time can substantially alter brain functioning for a lifetime, often leading to addiction and long term health risks. We encourage all families to talk about substance use. Research shows that parental disapproval is the #1 reason young people decide not to use drugs or alcohol. For ideas on how to begin these important conversations, please see this parent guide and refer to the Health Resource List for additional resources.. Together we can make a difference in the health of our youth!

Sincerely,
Tricia Williams, RN, BSN, NCSN        Aimie Keigan, RN, BSN
twilliams@email.medfield.net           akeigan@email.medfield.net
Office: 508-242-8554 Office: 508-242-8554

Update from ADL
ADL 7th and 8th grade Peer Leaders visited 6th grade advisories last Wednesday to lead an interactive activity around identity, community, and inclusion. Teachers' reports on this first leadership experience have been very positive -- well done! The New England ADL Youth Congress will be held in Boston on March 27th.

Black History Month
On Friday, 2/7, we kicked off Black History Month at Blake with a short assembly during advisory to learn about the origin and importance of learning more about accomplishments of African American people throughout US history and the importance of looking for missing voices and representation in history. Links to two videos shown to students are copied here…
Kids Explain Black History Month
The Most Searched: A Celebration of Black History Makers
Prior to vacation, advisories researched notable black Americans, creating informative posters and posting them on our evolving timeline in the front hallway at Blake. Check out our black history timeline when you are at Blake. Our month will culminate with a reflective walk through the completed timeline and opportunities for students to reflect on what they have learned, ways they hope to impact their community, and feelings they experienced. For more info about how Black History Month came to be and why it is celebrated, check out this link: Why Is Black History Month in February? Learn the Holiday's Origins

Parent Information Nights - Mark Your Calendars!
3/4 - Incoming 6th Grade Parent Night at 6:30 p.m.
This night is for all parents/guardians of incoming sixth grade (current fifth grade) students. We will be presenting information about the 6th grade program of studies and curriculum, previewing the students' experience that they will have next year along with an overview of the middle school. A more detailed presentation about the logistics of the 2020-2021 academic year’s mobile learning Initiative will take place during this evening as well.

3/12 - Incoming 7th/8th Grade Parent Night at 6:30 p.m.
** Nature’s Classroom Info Session for Incoming 7th parents starts at 6:00 p.m.
This night is for all parents/guardians of incoming seventh grade (current sixth grade) students. We will be sharing information about the 7th and 8th grade program of studies and curriculum, previewing the students' experience that they will have next year.

Message for 8th Grade Families
Medfield High School is excited to welcome the Class of 2024 to MHS! Please be aware of these upcoming dates:
- January 2020 - Students take placement tests
- Thursday, February 27 - 6:30-8:30pm - 8th Grade Student and Parent Night
- Thursday, March 5 @ 3:00 - The Aspen portal is "live"
- March 6-12 - Students will complete course selections
The program on February 27th is for students and parents to learn about the culture, classes, and extracurricular offerings at the high school.
The 2020-2021 Medfield High School Program of Studies will be shared with all students and parents in early February.

Physical Education - Volleyball Tournament
The volleyball unit has come to an end for Physical Education classes, capped off with the annual student v. teacher volleyball championship that took place the Friday before vacation. This is always a highlight of the year and this year did not disappoint. Students had an opportunity to compete for their grade championship through playoffs within their classes and then between classes. The winning team then played the teachers in front of their whole grade- both sides genuinely entertained and impressed their audiences. All of our students showed significant improvement in their volleyball skills and demonstrated great sportsmanship through what can be an intense unit. The PE staff is so proud of the effort and energy, as well as the skill that all of our students demonstrated through this unit.

Blake Softball Interest?
We are looking for 7th and 8th grade girls interested in playing softball. All skill levels are welcome. At the middle school level it is not too late to pick up this sport, so we do welcome those who've never played. If interested please sign up, or reach out to Cynthia McClelland, my email is: cmcclelland@email.medfield.net

Save the Date - Miss Amazing (3/28/20)
Massachusetts Miss Amazing is coming to Medfield High School for its seventh annual event! Miss Amazing’s mission statement reads, “Miss Amazing provides opportunities for girls and women with disabilities to build confidence and self-esteem in a supportive environment.” Join us in supporting this goal and giving these girls and young women an opportunity to shine. This full-day event is Saturday, March 28th, 2020 and will be held in the Medfield High School Auditorium at 6 PM. Ticket sales are open to the public beginning on March 14th at ma.missamazing.org. If you would like to donate, visit https://missamazing.org/donate/. If you want to volunteer with the event, you can sign up to be a buddy, half day volunteer (helping hand), or a right hand man online at https://missamazing.org/volunteer/. If you know a girl or young woman who might want to participate in this event, refer them to the Miss Amazing website so they can learn more! Sign up a participant at https://missamazing.org/participate/. See you there!

School Survey
The Blake Site Council has taken time to review the data collected from last year's survey and an Executive Summary will be distributed to families in the coming weeks. Focus areas on the survey centered on the topics of school culture, academic workloads, stress, and habits. Our intent is to distribute the 2019-2020 survey in early February in the hopes of gathering the data by February vacation. Stay tuned!

Blake is Social - Any Submissions?
Blake is social is featuring baby pictures of noatible African American's on our story, and we've been asking students if they can guess who they are. As always we are looking for more entries. Our focus for this month is poetry . We just posted an amazing poem regarding depression on our website. If you have a poem to share we would love to have it. Work and submissions can be e-mailed to cmcclelland@email.medfield.net or blakeissocial@email.medfield.net

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 http://www.medfield.net/o/medfield-public-schools/page/employment-opportunites--7 and find applications under the tab "employment opportunities". Please contact Kelly Campbell at kcampbell@email.medfield.net with any questions.

Substitute Nurses
As with our teaching positions, from time to time our nurse, Tricia Williams, will be out of the building and we need a substitute nurse for these days. We are fortunate that we have several substitute nurses in the district who are able to work on those days. If you are a registered nurse and have an interest in potentially serving as a substitute throughout the year, please let us know. You can contact me (nvaughn@email.medfield.net) or Tricia Williams (twilliams@email.medfield.net). By the same token, if you have friends in the area who would have an interest in serving as a substitute, please let them know that they can contact us as well. The safety and well-being of our students is always our top priority, and we would appreciate your interest in one of these roles.

MMA Update
Borchers Trust Law presents the third annual A Cappella Night THIS FRIDAY, Feb. 28 at 7pm, MHS Auditorium! Come hear Medfield's own MHS Soundwaves, the Junior Jazz Choir, featured guest, Berklee College's On the Vox, and groups from Newton North, Xaverian Brothers, Westwood, and Montrose High Schools at last count. Tickets can be purchased at medfieldmusicassociation.com or will be sold a the door.

Blake PTO Update
Mailers for our 2020 Annual Appeal are going out this week! The Appeal, which replaces having the kids fundraise, allows the PTO to support educational activites and initiatives for your children! The PTO will have representatives at each of the upcoming PIN nights to answer any questions Thank you in advance for your support!

Weeks of 2/11/20-2/24/20

2/11/2020

Important Dates
2/11 - Medfield Talks - The Importance of Sleep (see details below)
2/14 - Blake Volleyball Tourney
2/17-2/21 - February Vacation
2/27 - Incoming 9th Info Night (see details below)
3/4 - Incoming 6th Parent/Guardian Info Night (6:30 p.m.)
3/11 - Blake PTO Meeting - 7 p.m.
3/12 - Incoming 7th Grade Nature’s Classroom Info Session (6:00 p.m.)
           Incoming 7th/8th Parent/Guardian Info Night (6:30 p.m.)
3/16 - Blake Site Council Mtg - 3:30 p.m.
3/17 - Worcester Art Museum Field Trip (White Cluster)
3/18 - Worcester Art Museum Field Trip (Red Cluster)
3/19 - Worcester Art Museum Field Trip (Blue Cluster)
3/20 - Term 2 Ends

Topic/Question for the Dinner Table
To help encourage conversations and dialogue about the importance of actively pursuing learning, our topic/question for the week is: What are you currently excited about learning? Why? Pursuing Learning (Week of 2/10-2/14) (This is an anonymous Google Form)

Medfield Talks - The Importance of Sleep - 2/11/20
Dr. Judith Owens
See link below for more information...
Medfield Talks with Dr. Judith Owens- The Importance of Adolescent Sleep on 2/11/2020
To RSVP to this event, please click here

Advisory Update for Blake
In Advisory this week students and advisors will be working on their Black History Month Spotlight project. They will be choosing an African American to learn about and create a visual for the timeline in front of Blake!
Blake Wednesday Advisory Website

Term 2 Interim Reports
All outstanding interim report signature sheets should be turned into advisors ASAP. If you have any questions about your child's work on the reports, please start by having a conversation with your own child. If questions still exist, you should contact the teacher directly to gain more insight.

Blake STEM Event - 3/19/20
Our fifth annual celebration of our students and STEM will be held at 3:30 pm on Thursday March 19, 2020. All BMS students are invited to participate as individuals or in groups (single or multi grade) and show their passion for or interest in answering some question or learning more about a particular topic - including but not limited to - recent genius hour projects, maker space projects or personal interest projects or investigations. Information will go out this week via email to students and their families.

SBIRT Screenings and Protocol - Message for All 7th Grade Families
In response to the increase in drug and opioid use in Massachusetts, Governor Charlie Baker signed into law, “An Act relative to substance use, treatment, education and prevention” (H. No. 4056). Among its many components, this law mandates that school districts annually conduct verbal substance use screenings for one grade at the high school and one at the middle school. The goal of the program is to provide early identification and prevention of harm from substance use. School nurses will screen all 7th grade students using the SBIRT protocol (Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment) developed by the MA Dept of Public Health. The interview style screening will be conducted confidentially, in private one-on-one sessions using the CRAFFT II screening tool, the most commonly used substance use screening tool for adolescents in Massachusetts.

Students who report not using substances will have their healthy choices reinforced. The screener will provide brief feedback to any student who reports using substances. If appropriate, we will offer students a referral to counseling staff. This program focuses on prevention, and students’ responses will not lead to any disciplinary action. The results of the screening will not be included in students’ academic or health records. In keeping with M.G.L. Chapter 71, Section 97, information disclosed by students during verbal substance use screening is confidential, and unless a student is in immediate medical danger, parents will not be notified about the results of this screening.

If you have any questions about this program or prefer your child not participate in the screening, please contact Tricia Williams Blake School Nurse by Friday, February 14, 2020 at 508-242-8554 or email her directly at twilliams@email.medfield.net. This program is voluntary and students may choose to not answer any or all of the questions. Screenings will be conducted starting the week of February 24, 2020 for seventh grade students during their health classes. Postural and BMI (height/weight) screening is also being conducted for all seventh grade students during their physical education classes the same week. You may opt your child out of any of the screenings by conducting Tricia Williams as noted above.

As a child’s brain is not fully developed during adolescence, substance use during this time can substantially alter brain functioning for a lifetime, often leading to addiction and long term health risks. We encourage all families to talk about substance use. Research shows that parental disapproval is the #1 reason young people decide not to use drugs or alcohol. For ideas on how to begin these important conversations, please see this parent guide and refer to the Health Resource List for additional resources.. Together we can make a difference in the health of our youth!

Sincerely,
Tricia Williams, RN, BSN, NCSN        Aimie Keigan, RN, BSN
twilliams@email.medfield.net           akeigan@email.medfield.net
Office: 508-242-8554 Office: 508-242-8554

Update from ADL
The ADL peer leader group finished their intensive three days of leadership training last week. Exposure to activities related to bias and practicing ways of being an ally were the focus of the training. 7th and 8th grade peer leaders will be practicing their leadership skills in 6th grade advisories by running an activity on Wednesday, February 12th. The New England ADL Youth Congress will be held in Boston on March 27th.

Black History Month
On Friday, 2/7, we kicked off Black History Month at Blake with a short assembly during advisory to learn about the origin and importance of learning more about accomplishments of African American people throughout US history and the importance of looking for missing voices and representation in history. Links to two videos shown to students are copied here…
Kids Explain Black History Month
The Most Searched: A Celebration of Black History Makers
This week, advisories began researching notable black Americans, creating informative posters and posting them on our evolving timeline in the front hallway at Blake. Check out our black history timeline when you are at Blake. Our month will culminate with a reflective walk through the completed timeline and opportunities for students to reflect on what they have learned, ways they hope to impact their community, and feelings they experienced. For more info about how Black History Month came to be and why it is celebrated, check out this link: Why Is Black History Month in February? Learn the Holiday's Origins

Parent Information Nights - Mark Your Calendars!
3/4 - Incoming 6th Grade Parent Night at 6:30 p.m.
This night is for all parents/guardians of incoming sixth grade (current fifth grade) students. We will be presenting information about the 6th grade program of studies and curriculum, previewing the students' experience that they will have next year along with an overview of the middle school. A more detailed presentation about the logistics of the 2020-2021 academic year’s mobile learning Initiative will take place during this evening as well.

3/12 - Incoming 7th/8th Grade Parent Night at 6:30 p.m.
** Nature’s Classroom Info Session for Incoming 7th parents starts at 6:00 p.m.
This night is for all parents/guardians of incoming seventh grade (current sixth grade) students. We will be sharing information about the 7th and 8th grade program of studies and curriculum, previewing the students' experience that they will have next year.

Message for 8th Grade Families
Medfield High School is excited to welcome the Class of 2024 to MHS! Please be aware of these upcoming dates:
- January 2020 - Students take placement tests
- Thursday, February 27 - 6:30-8:30pm - 8th Grade Student and Parent Night
- Thursday, March 5 @ 3:00 - The Aspen portal is "live"
- March 6-12 - Students will complete course selections
The program on February 27th is for students and parents to learn about the culture, classes, and extracurricular offerings at the high school.
The 2020-2021 Medfield High School Program of Studies will be shared with all students and parents in early February.

Physical Education - Volleyball Tournament
All grades are currently participating in a Sport Education Volleyball unit and each student has been assigned to a team that they will be with for the entire unit. The unit is broken down into a pre-season (developing skills and team camaraderie), a regular season, and a postseason playoff tournament. Students signed up for an individual role/job that they will perform throughout the season. The jobs include: Team Captain/Coach, Statistician, Fitness Leader, Equipment Manager and Camaraderie/Spirit Captain. Students have practiced the skills of the forearm pass, the set and underhand serve. There continues to be a strong emphasis on communication and teamwork.

The regular season has wrapped up and playoffs are off to a great start. All teams make the playoffs for a chance to play in a grade-level tournament on Friday morning, 2/14. Each grade will have a championship team that gets to play against an excited staff team in front of their grade. There is definitely excitement in the air leading to February break. We are very proud of all the spirit, camaraderie, teamwork and skill building we have seen in this unit. We hope everyone has a restful and relaxing break.

Update for Grade 6 Choral Parents from Mrs. Oxholm
The Grade 6 Chorus is presenting a Valentine's Day Tea to our neighbors in the Tilden Village Community. The event has been rescheduled for Wednesday, 2/26 from 3:00 to 5:00 pm at the Tilden Village Meeting House at 30 Pound Street. The Chorus has been practicing small group ensembles for our upcoming outreach. They will also perform some larger ensembles, all with the theme of love! We are very excited about this upcoming event! The Chorus members will walk over to the meetinghouse and set up right after school. The permission slip for the field trip is below. Please fill it out - I have only heard from 5 parents.

We will need some paper items, baked goods and snacks for this event. Please fill out the sign up genius below if you would like to help out. The paper goods should be delivered as soon as possible. Have your child bring them to our weekly choral rehearsals. The baked goods may be dropped off at Blake Middle School office the day of the event.

I have been in touch with the parents who signed up to help with this event. Should I need more volunteers, I will let you know. There is not a lot of space at the meeting house for more than the residents, but the chorus will perform some of our "Love Songs" for you at our Spring Concert.
Permission for Valentines Day Outreach
Sign Up Genius (Items needed for the Valentine's Day Tea)
Let me know if you have any questions.
Musically yours,
Barbara Oxholm
Music Specialist and Choral Director
Dale Street and Blake Middle Schools
Web Page
boxholm@email.medfield.net
Medfield Music Department

iPad Case Reminder
This is a gentle reminder that all students should have cases on their iPads at all times. Three websites that we have found to be useful, as they detail the various covers, rates them, and describes why covers are needed, are:
Recommended by Apple: STM Dux Case
Griffin Survivor Case
Top 5 Rugged iPad Cases

Reminder about Locks
All Blake students are required to be using a combination lock to lock their hallway lockers. As this is the time of year when students can begin to be lax about using their locks and keeping them locked during the day, we appreciate your reminders at home as well. A photo of locks that fit on Blake lockers can be found on the school supply list page (School Supply Lists).

Empty Bowls
DUE TO POPULAR DEMAND, another bowl making workshop has been added!
Secure your spot on the Sign Up Genius. Get involved in this amazing community event, learn something new, and get together with friends to benefit the Medfield Food Cupboard! A $25 ticket bought in advance gets you dinner along with two pottery classes to create a bowl to eat dinner and bring home with you.

No time to make your own bowl? Choose a handmade bowl at dinner, fill it with delicious soup donated by local restaurants, and take your bowl home with you! All ages welcome! While advanced sign up is required, payments can be made via cash, check, or Venmo at the door. Last year was a lot of fun and we raised almost $2000 for the Medfield Food Cupboard! Please feel free to reach out with any questions and we hope to see you there!
Sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60b084eacaf2ca1fc1-empty. Contact Sara Higger with any questions - shigger@email.medfield.net.

Save the Date - Miss Amazing (3/28/20)
Massachusetts Miss Amazing is coming to Medfield High School for its seventh annual event! Miss Amazing’s mission statement reads, “Miss Amazing provides opportunities for girls and women with disabilities to build confidence and self-esteem in a supportive environment.” Join us in supporting this goal and giving these girls and young women an opportunity to shine. This full-day event is Saturday, March 28th, 2020 and will be held in the Medfield High School Auditorium at 6 PM. Ticket sales are open to the public beginning on March 14th at ma.missamazing.org. If you would like to donate, visit https://missamazing.org/donate/. If you want to volunteer with the event, you can sign up to be a buddy, half day volunteer (helping hand), or a right hand man online at https://missamazing.org/volunteer/. If you know a girl or young woman who might want to participate in this event, refer them to the Miss Amazing website so they can learn more! Sign up a participant at https://missamazing.org/participate/. See you there!

School Survey
The Blake Site Council has taken time to review the data collected from last year's survey and an Executive Summary will be distributed to families in the coming weeks. Focus areas on the survey centered on the topics of school culture, academic workloads, stress, and habits. Our intent is to distribute the 2019-2020 survey in early February in the hopes of gathering the data by February vacation. Stay tuned!

Blake is Social - Any Submissions?
Blake is social is featuring baby pictures of noatible African American's on our story, and we've been asking students if they can guess who they are. As always we are looking for more entries. Our focus for this month is poetry . We just posted an amazing poem regarding depression on our website. If you have a poem to share we would love to have it. Work and submissions can be e-mailed to cmcclelland@email.medfield.net or blakeissocial@email.medfield.net

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 http://www.medfield.net/o/medfield-public-schools/page/employment-opportunites--7 and find applications under the tab "employment opportunities". Please contact Kelly Campbell at kcampbell@email.medfield.net with any questions.

Substitute Nurses
As with our teaching positions, from time to time our nurse, Tricia Williams, will be out of the building and we need a substitute nurse for these days. We are fortunate that we have several substitute nurses in the district who are able to work on those days. If you are a registered nurse and have an interest in potentially serving as a substitute throughout the year, please let us know. You can contact me (nvaughn@email.medfield.net) or Tricia Williams (twilliams@email.medfield.net). By the same token, if you have friends in the area who would have an interest in serving as a substitute, please let them know that they can contact us as well. The safety and well-being of our students is always our top priority, and we would appreciate your interest in one of these roles.

MMA Update
Borchers Trust Law presents the third annual A Cappella Night on Feb. 28 at 7pm at MHS Auditorium! Come hear Medfield's own MHS Soundwaves, the Junior Jazz Choir, and groups from Newton North, Xaverian Brothers, and Montrose high schools at last count. Tickets can be purchased at medfieldmusicassociation.com or will be sold at the door.

Blake PTO Update
Look out for details about our upcoming Annual Appeal which kicks off after February break! The Annual Appeal, which replaces having the kids fundraise, allows the PTO to support educational activities and initiatives for your children!

Week of 2/4/20-2/10/20

2/5/2020

Important Dates
2/4 - 1/2 Day for Students
         8th Grade Career Day
         Professional Afternoon for Staff
2/6 - Tri-County Interviews
2/10 - Blake Site Council - 3:30 p.m.
2/11 - Medfield Talks - The Importance of Sleep (see details below)
2/14 - Blake Volleyball Tourney
2/17-2/21 - February Vacation
3/4 - Incoming 6th Parent/Guardian Info Night (6:30 p.m.)
3/12 - Incoming 7th Grade Nature’s Classroom Info Session (6:00 p.m.)
           Incoming 7th/8th Parent/Guardian Info Night (6:30 p.m.)

Topic/Question for the Dinner Table
To help encourage conversations and dialogue about strategies for becoming more mindful and ‘less stressed’, our topic/question for the week is: Share a strategy or ‘step you are taking’ to be more mindful, present in the moment, pay attention, and ‘less stressed’? Be specific. Practicing Presence (Week of 2/3-2/7) (This is an anonymous Google Form)

Term 2 Interim Reports
This past Friday students will be bringing home their interim reports for the first term. The interim report is a mid-term progress update on students' effort and work based on the first half of the term. We encourage students and families to take time to reflect upon their work thus far and to set healthy goals for the second half of the term. The signature sheet that accompanies the report should be returned to advisory teachers. If you have any questions about your child's work on the reports, please start by having a conversation with your own child. If questions still exist, you should contact the teacher directly to gain more insight.

Medfield Talks - The Importance of Sleep - 2/11/20
Dr. Judith Owens
See link below for more information...
Medfield Talks with Dr. Judith Owens- The Importance of Adolescent Sleep on 2/11/2020
To RSVP to this event, please click here

Update from ADL
The ADL peer leader group finished their intensive three days of leadership training last week. Exposure to activities related to bias and practicing ways of being an ally were the focus of the training. 7th and 8th grade peer leaders will be practicing their leadership skills in 6th grade advisories by running an activity on Wednesday, February 12th. The New England ADL Youth Congress will be held in Boston on March 27th.

Advisory Update for Blake
Our weekly advisory activity will be done on Friday this week instead of Wednesday. All grades will be participating in a Black History Month kick off assembly on Friday.
Blake Wednesday Advisory Website

Black History Month
On Friday, 2/7, we will kick off Black History Month at Blake with a short assembly during advisory to learn about the origin and importance of learning more about accomplishments of African American people throughout US history. Throughout February, advisories will be researching important Black Americans and posting them on our evolving timeline in the front hallway at Blake. Our month will culminate with a reflective walk through the completed timeline and opportunities for students to reflect on what they have learned, ways they hope to impact their community, and feelings they experienced. In addition, 7th grade Current Events classes are sharing quotations from prominent black Americans on morning announcements during the month of February. For more info about how Black History Month came to be and why it is celebrated, check out this link: https://bestlifeonline.com/this-is-why-black-history-month-is-celebrated-in-february

Parent Information Nights - Mark Your Calendars!
3/4 - Incoming 6th Grade Parent Night at 6:30 p.m.
This night is for all parents/guardians of incoming sixth grade (current fifth grade) students. We will be presenting information about the 6th grade program of studies and curriculum, previewing the students' experience that they will have next year along with an overview of the middle school. A more detailed presentation about the logistics of the 2020-2021 academic year’s mobile learning Initiative will take place during this evening as well.

3/12 - Incoming 7th/8th Grade Parent Night at 6:30 p.m.
** Nature’s Classroom Info Session for Incoming 7th parents starts at 6:00 p.m.
This night is for all parents/guardians of incoming seventh grade (current sixth grade) students. We will be sharing information about the 7th and 8th grade program of studies and curriculum, previewing the students' experience that they will have next year.

Message for 8th Grade Families
Medfield High School is excited to welcome the Class of 2024 to MHS! Please be aware of these upcoming dates:
- January 2020 - Students take placement tests
- Thursday, February 27 - 6:30-8:30pm - 8th Grade Student and Parent Night
- Thursday, March 5 @ 3:00 - The Aspen portal is "live"
- March 6-12 - Students will complete course selections
The program on February 27th is for students and parents to learn about the culture, classes, and extracurricular offerings at the high school.
The 2020-2021 Medfield High School Program of Studies will be shared with all students and parents in early February.

Physical Education - Volleyball Tournament
All grades are currently participating in a Sport Education Volleyball unit and each student has been assigned to a team that they will be with for the entire unit. The unit is broken down into a pre-season (developing skills and team camaraderie), a regular season, and a postseason playoff tournament. Students signed up for an individual role/job that they will perform throughout the season. The jobs include: Team Captain/Coach, Statistician, Fitness Leader, Equipment Manager and Camaraderie/Spirit Captain. Students have practiced the skills of the forearm pass, the set and underhand serve. There continues to be a strong emphasis on communication and teamwork.

The regular season has wrapped up and playoffs are off to a great start. All teams make the playoffs for a chance to play in a grade-level tournament on Friday morning, 2/14. Each grade will have a championship team that gets to play against an excited staff team in front of their grade. There is definitely excitement in the air leading to February break. We are very proud of all the spirit, camaraderie, teamwork and skill building we have seen in this unit. We hope everyone has a restful and relaxing break.

Message for Grade 6 Choral Parents from Mrs. Oxholm
The Grade 6 Chorus is presenting a Valentine's Day Tea to our neighbors in the Tilden Village Community. The event is on Wednesday, February 12 from 3:00 to 5:00 pm at the Tilden Village Meeting House at 30 Pound Street. The Chorus has been practicing small group ensembles for our upcoming outreach. They will also perform some larger ensembles, all with the theme of love! We are very excited about this upcoming event! The Chorus members will walk over to the meetinghouse and set up right after school. The permission slip for the field trip is below. Please fill it out - I have only heard from 5 parents.

We will need some paper items, baked goods and snacks for this event. Please fill out the sign up genius below if you would like to help out. The paper goods should be delivered as soon as possible. Have your child bring them to our weekly choral rehearsals. The baked goods may be dropped off at Blake Middle School office the day of the event.

I have been in touch with the parents who signed up to help with this event. Should I need more volunteers, I will let you know. There is not a lot of space at the meeting house for more than the residents, but the chorus will perform some of our "Love Songs" for you at our Spring Concert.
Permission for Valentines Day Outreach
Sign Up Genius (Items needed for the Valentine's Day Tea)
Let me know if you have any questions.
Musically yours,
Barbara Oxholm
Music Specialist and Choral Director
Dale Street and Blake Middle Schools
Web Page
boxholm@email.medfield.net
Medfield Music Department

iPad Case Reminder
This is a gentle reminder that all students should have cases on their iPads at all times. Three websites that we have found to be useful, as they detail the various covers, rates them, and describes why covers are needed, are:
Recommended by Apple: STM Dux Case
Griffin Survivor Case
Top 5 Rugged iPad Cases

Reminder about Locks
All Blake students are required to be using a combination lock to lock their hallway lockers. As this is the time of year when students can begin to be lax about using their locks and keeping them locked during the day, we appreciate your reminders at home as well. A photo of locks that fit on Blake lockers can be found on the school supply list page (School Supply Lists).

Summer Reading Input?
It's summer at Blake! The summer reading team will meet in early February to begin looking at titles for this summer's reading choices. Have a book you'd like to recommend? Please share with Kara Gelormini, kgelormini@email.medfield.net. Happy Reading!

Tri-County Interview Information for 8th Grade Families
On February 6, Tri-County will be hosting their interviews for applicants. The interviews are approximately 15-20 minutes. Sample questions can be found here http://www.tri-county.us/node/271. The purpose of the interview is to clarify the student’s reason for attending Tri-County, choice of program areas, career goals, interests and motivation. In the case of student absence on the interview day, or in the case of a late applicant, the interview schedule will be mutually agreed upon between the Director of Guidance and the student’s counselor and/or parent(s)/guardian.

Empty Bowls
DUE TO POPULAR DEMAND, another bowl making workshop has been added!
Secure your spot on the Sign Up Genius. Get involved in this amazing community event, learn something new, and get together with friends to benefit the Medfield Food Cupboard! A $25 ticket bought in advance gets you dinner along with two pottery classes to create a bowl to eat dinner and bring home with you.

No time to make your own bowl? Choose a handmade bowl at dinner, fill it with delicious soup donated by local restaurants, and take your bowl home with you! All ages welcome! While advanced sign up is required, payments can be made via cash, check, or Venmo at the door. Last year was a lot of fun and we raised almost $2000 for the Medfield Food Cupboard! Please feel free to reach out with any questions and we hope to see you there!
Sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60b084eacaf2ca1fc1-empty. Contact Sara Higger with any questions - shigger@email.medfield.net.

Save the Date - Miss Amazing (3/28/20)
Massachusetts Miss Amazing is coming to Medfield High School for its seventh annual event! Miss Amazing’s mission statement reads, “Miss Amazing provides opportunities for girls and women with disabilities to build confidence and self-esteem in a supportive environment.” Join us in supporting this goal and giving these girls and young women an opportunity to shine. This full-day event is Saturday, March 28th, 2020 and will be held in the Medfield High School Auditorium at 6 PM. Ticket sales are open to the public beginning on March 14th at ma.missamazing.org. If you would like to donate, visit https://missamazing.org/donate/. If you want to volunteer with the event, you can sign up to be a buddy, half day volunteer (helping hand), or a right hand man online at https://missamazing.org/volunteer/. If you know a girl or young woman who might want to participate in this event, refer them to the Miss Amazing website so they can learn more! Sign up a participant at https://missamazing.org/participate/. See you there!

School Survey
The Blake Site Council has taken time to review the data collected from last year's survey and an Executive Summary will be distributed to families in the coming weeks. Focus areas on the survey centered on the topics of school culture, academic workloads, stress, and habits. Our intent is to distribute the 2019-2020 survey in early February in the hopes of gathering the data by February vacation. Stay tuned!

Blake is Social - Any Submissions?
Blake is social is still looking for work to post on our instagram and our website. If you come across great work please consider asking your student to submit it. Work and submissions can be e-mailed to cmcclelland@email.medfield.net or blakeissocial@email.medfield.net

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 http://www.medfield.net/o/medfield-public-schools/page/employment-opportunites--7 and find applications under the tab "employment opportunities". Please contact Kelly Campbell at kcampbell@email.medfield.net with any questions.

Substitute Nurses
As with our teaching positions, from time to time our nurse, Tricia Williams, will be out of the building and we need a substitute nurse for these days. We are fortunate that we have several substitute nurses in the district who are able to work on those days. If you are a registered nurse and have an interest in potentially serving as a substitute throughout the year, please let us know. You can contact me (nvaughn@email.medfield.net) or Tricia Williams (twilliams@email.medfield.net). By the same token, if you have friends in the area who would have an interest in serving as a substitute, please let them know that they can contact us as well. The safety and well-being of our students is always our top priority, and we would appreciate your interest in one of these roles.

MCPE Update
MCPE's Treasured Experiences Online Auction is OPEN for bidding! There's something for everyone from VIP seats at graduation, to dance and icecream parties with teachers to student principal for a day! Go to medfieldcoalition.org to start bidding!

MMA Update
Borchers Trust Law presents the third annual A Cappella Night on Feb. 28 at 7pm at MHS Auditorium! Come hear Medfield's own MHS Soundwaves, the Junior Jazz Choir, and groups from Newton North, Xaverian Brothers, and Montrose high schools at last count. Tickets can be purchased at medfieldmusicassociation.com or will be sold a the door.

Blake PTO Update
There's always opportunities to get involved! Volunteer by clicking on the link to the volunteer form. Thank you!! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScVH6fbiK1-cVI5r7yu42e6szW5bnuT2EUO9qk3CLc

Week of 1/28/20-2/3/20

1/28/2020

Important Dates
1/29 - D-S Challenge Success Presentation (see details below)
1/31 - Term 2 Interim Reports go Home
2/3 - SEL Focus Group - 3:30 p.m. at MHS
2/4 - 1/2 Day for Students
         8th Grade Career Day
         Professional Afternoon for Staff
2/6 - Tri-County Interviews
2/10 - Blake Site Council - 3:30 p.m.
2/14 - Blake Volleyball Tourney
2/17-2/21 - February Vacation
3/4 - Incoming 6th Parent/Guardian Info Night (6:30 p.m.)
3/12 - Incoming 7th/8th Parent/Guardian Info Night (6:30 p.m.)

Topic/Question for the Dinner Table
To help encourage conversations and dialogue about the ways we can allow ourselves to take a new perspective, reflect, and learn, our topic/question for the week is: What helps you to see something (i.e. an idea, perspective, concept, belief) differently or ‘in a new light’? A New Light (Week of 1/27-1/31) (This is an anonymous Google Form)

Term 2 Interim Reports
This Friday students will be bringing home their interim reports for the second term. They will be spending time in their advisories reflecting upon the work they have accomplished thus far, and setting healthy/measured goals for the second half of the term. Our hope is that this communication tool will give you an update on the progress your child is making in school. If you have any questions about your child's work or the reports, please start by having a conversation with your own child. If questions still exist, you should contact the teacher directly to gain more insight.

Advisory Update for Blake
After our two week focus on learning styles, in Advisory on Wednesday students and advisors will be participating in a team building activity of choice!
Blake Wednesday Advisory Website

Black History Month Update
The Black History Month planning team has met twice to formalize plans to celebrate Black History Month at Blake. Plans are underway for a Black History Hallway Timeline, Picture Books for read aloud in advisory, activities via Current Events Classes, and highlighting important figures in Black History through content areas. Stay tuned for more information and opportunities. Please reach out to Kelly Campbell if you'd like to help or have ideas.

Blake Blood Drive Summary
The blood drive committee would like to thank everyone who played a role in our blood drive. It was an amazing success. We collected 87 units. When the nurses reported the number to me they remarked that drives this large do not usually occurs in small towns. The last time one of them had numbers like this was at Fenway and TD Bank Pavilion drives. Medfield is a special community and this proves how special Medfield is. Again, thank you everyone and I hope to see you all again next year.

Parent Information Nights - Mark Your Calendars!
3/4 - Incoming 6th Grade Parent Night at 6:30 p.m.
This night is for all parents/guardians of incoming sixth grade (current fifth grade) students. We will be presenting information about the 6th grade program of studies and curriculum, previewing the students' experience that they will have next year along with an overview of the middle school. A more detailed presentation about the logistics of the 2020-2021 academic year’s mobile learning Initiative will take place during this evening as well.

3/12 - Incoming 7th/8th Grade Parent Night at 6:30 p.m.
This night is for all parents/guardians of incoming seventh grade (current sixth grade) students. We will be sharing information about the 7th and 8th grade program of studies and curriculum, previewing the students' experience that they will have next year.

Message for 8th Grade Families
Medfield High School is excited to welcome the Class of 2024 to MHS! Please be aware of these upcoming dates:
- January 2020 - Students take placement tests
- Thursday, February 27 - 6:30-8:30pm - 8th Grade Student and Parent Night
- Thursday, March 5 @ 3:00 - The Aspen portal is "live"
- March 6-12 - Students will complete course selections
The program on February 27th is for students and parents to learn about the culture, classes, and extracurricular offerings at the high school.
The 2020-2021 Medfield High School Program of Studies will be shared with all students and parents in early February.

Summer Reading Input?
It's summer at Blake! The summer reading team will meet in early February to begin looking at titles for this summer's reading choices. Have a book you'd like to recommend? Please share with Kara Gelormini, kgelormini@email.medfield.net. Happy Reading!

Empty Bowls
Last year was our first annual Empty Bowls event, and this year we are back at it! For those who may not remember, Empty Bowls is a collaborative community dinner of soup and bread to raise money for Medfield Food Cupboard. A $25 ticket bought in advance gets you dinner along with two pottery classes to create a bowl to eat dinner out of and bring home with you. No time to make your own bowl? Choose a handmade bowl at dinner, fill it with delicious soup donated by local restaurants, and take your bowl home with you! All ages welcome! While advanced sign up is required, payments can be made via cash, check, or Venmo at the door. Last year was a lot of fun and we raised almost $2000 for the Medfield Food Cupboard! Please feel free to reach out with any questions and we hope to see you there! Contact Sara Higger with any questions - shigger@email.medfield.net.

Save the Date - Miss Amazing (3/28/20)
Massachusetts Miss Amazing is coming to Medfield High School for its seventh annual event! Miss Amazing’s mission statement reads, “Miss Amazing provides opportunities for girls and women with disabilities to build confidence and self-esteem in a supportive environment.” Join us in supporting this goal and giving these girls and young women an opportunity to shine. This full-day event is Saturday, March 28th, 2020 and will be held in the Medfield High School Auditorium at 6 PM. Ticket sales are open to the public beginning on March 14th at ma.missamazing.org. If you would like to donate, visit https://missamazing.org/donate/. If you want to volunteer with the event, you can sign up to be a buddy, half day volunteer (helping hand), or a right hand man online at https://missamazing.org/volunteer/. If you know a girl or young woman who might want to participate in this event, refer them to the Miss Amazing website so they can learn more! Sign up a participant at https://missamazing.org/participate/. See you there!

School Survey
The Blake Site Council has taken time to review the data collected from last year's survey and an Executive Summary will be distributed to families in the coming weeks. Focus areas on the survey centered on the topics of school culture, academic workloads, stress, and habits. Our intent is to distribute the 2019-2020 survey in early February in the hopes of gathering the data by February vacation. Stay tuned!

Blake is Social - Any Submissions?
Blake is social is still looking for work to post on our instagram and our website. If you come across great work please consider asking your student to submit it. Work and submissions can be e-mailed to cmcclelland@email.medfield.net or blakeissocial@email.medfield.net

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 http://www.medfield.net/o/medfield-public-schools/page/employment-opportunites--7 and find applications under the tab "employment opportunities". Please contact Kelly Campbell at kcampbell@email.medfield.net with any questions.

Substitute Nurses
As with our teaching positions, from time to time our nurse, Tricia Williams, will be out of the building and we need a substitute nurse for these days. We are fortunate that we have several substitute nurses in the district who are able to work on those days. If you are a registered nurse and have an interest in potentially serving as a substitute throughout the year, please let us know. You can contact me (nvaughn@email.medfield.net) or Tricia Williams (twilliams@email.medfield.net). By the same token, if you have friends in the area who would have an interest in serving as a substitute, please let them know that they can contact us as well. The safety and well-being of our students is always our top priority, and we would appreciate your interest in one of these roles.

D-S Challenge Success Presentation - 1/29/20
Dover-Sherborn has graciously opened up this event to the Medfield community...
RAISING RESILIENCE
A Mindfulness Presentation for K-12 Parents and Caregivers
Wednesday, January 29, 2020
6:30 - 8:30 pm
Choral Room, Dover-Sherborn Middle School
Psychologist and educational consultant Dr. Chris Willard will join the Dover-Sherborn community to speak with parents and caregivers about the tools and techniques he uses to help children and adolescents successfully navigate the stressors and anxieties in their lives. Dr. Willard is president of the Mindfulness in Education Network and author of several parenting books including Growing Up Mindful: Essential Practices to Help Children, Teens, and Families Find Balance, Calm, and Resilience. Please RSVP here…
Raising Resilience with Dr. Chris Willard
For more information on Dr. Willard and his work, please see his website at http://drchristopherwillard.com.
Psychologist and educational consultant Dr. Chris Willard will join the Dover-Sherborn community to speak with parents and caregivers about the tools and techniques he uses to help children and adolescents successfully navigate the stressors and anxieties in their lives. Dr. Willard is president of the Mindfulness in Education Network and author of several parenting books including Growing Up Mindful: Essential Practices to Help Children, Teens, and Families Find Balance, Calm, and Resilience. For more information on Dr. Willard and his work, please see his website at http://drchristopherwillard.com.

MCPE Update
MCPE's Treasured Experiences Online Auction opens January 30! There's something for everyone from VIP seats at graduation, to dance and icecream parties with teachers to student principal for a day! Go to medfieldcoalition.org begining on Thursday to start bidding!

MMA Update
Borchers Trust Law presents the third annual A Cappella Night on Feb. 28 at 7pm at MHS Auditorium! Come hear Medfield's own MHS Soundwaves, the Junior Jazz Choir, and groups from Newton North, Xaverian Brothers, and Montrose high schools at last count. Tickets can be purchased at medfieldmusicassociation.com or will be sold a the door.

Blake PTO Update
There's always opportunities to get involved! Volunteer by clicking on the link to the volunteer form. Thank you!! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScVH6fbiK1-cVI5r7yu42e6szW5bnuT2EUO9qk3CLc

Week of 1/21/20-1/27/20

1/21/2020

Important Dates
1/21 - SEPAC Meeting - 7 p.m. (Blake LMC)
1/23 - Blake PTO Meeting - 7 p.m. (Blake LMC)
1/24 - 7th/8th Grade Dance - 7-9 p.m.
1/27 - SBR Parent Focus Group - 6:30-8:00 p.m. (see details below)
1/29 - D-S Challenge Success Presentation (see details below)
1/31 - Term 2 Interim Reports go Home
2/3 - SEL Focus Group - 3:30 p.m. at MHS
2/4 - 1/2 Day for Students
         8th Grade Career Day
         Professional Afternoon for Staff
2/6 - Tri-County Interviews
2/10 - Blake Site Council - 3:30 p.m.
2/14 - Blake Volleyball Tourney
2/17-2/21 - February Vacation

Topic/Question for the Dinner Table
To help encourage conversations and dialogue about purposefully matching our beliefs with our practices, our topic/question for the dinner table is: What commitment can/will you make to support your own learning? What commitment can/will you make to support others’ learning?   Purposeful Reflection - Aligning Beliefs with Practices (Week of 1/19/20) (This is an anonymous Google Form)

Professional Development Follow Up
For our professional development afternoon on Friday, January 17 the Blake staff engaged in an ‘EdCamp’ - #EdCampBlake. All staff engaged in staff-established focus groups under the umbrella of ‘feedback’. The discussions and working groups were productive and meaningful. Topics included…
Session 1 - Creating Feedback Tools/Assessments to Align with Benchmarks; Using Feedback in Choice Reading Time to Foster Independence and Growth for CRT/Readers; Genius Hour - What does feedback look like?; Interactive Notebooks; Transition to High School - Giving Feedback to Help; Universal iPad Rubric for Video Projects linked to Learning Skills; Behavioral Feedback to Students - What works? What doesn't? Why?; Assessing and Providing Feedback on Creativity in the Academic Classroom; Calibrating Benchmarks with Grade Level Content Team ; Daily 'quick quizzes' for World Language: Ideas, types, assessing, feedback, etc.; Writing and Reviewing 504 Plans; Ways to Streamline SBR in Related Arts and Shared Classes; SBR in the Music Classroom
Session 2 - Conferencing - Students? Parents? What can we do with that?; 7th Grade SS Calibrating and Grading Online Discussions on Google Classroom; Placement Feedback: Setting Expectations for 8th to 9th Transitions (with Christine Power); Most Effective Feedback on Writing Assignments (Essays/Longer Pieces); Feedback Podcast - Sharing Thoughts on the Evolution of Feedback Over the Past Few Years; Portfolio Development for Grade 7 and Grade 8 World Language Proficiency; Learning Skills - Making Them Relevant for Kids; Working on Calibration/Development of Assessments for Grade 6 Math; Creative Critique in the Art Studio; #FeedForward - Check-Ins; Choosing Power Standards; Creating Benchmarks for Students; 6th Grade Narrative Writing - Calibrating/Grading

Martin Luther King, Jr. Weekend - No Homework Weekend for Blake
Thank you to all of the Blake staff for their support and help in making our 'No Homework Weekend' this past weekend a reality. This effort was part of our continued work to provide down time for students, staff, and families.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service
Thank you to Cynthia McClelland for spearheading and organizing the 'Day of Service' and Blood Drive at Blake. It was a wonderful scene on Monday, as student and staff volunteers worked together, and we are thrilled that this has become a tradition for our community.

Black History Month Update
The Black History Month planning team has met twice to formalize plans to celebrate Black History Month at Blake. Plans are underway for a Black History Hallway Timeline, Picture Books for read aloud in advisory, activities via Current Events Classes, and highlighting important figures in Black History through content areas. Stay tuned for more information and opportunities. Please reach out to Kelly Campbell if you'd like to help or have ideas.

Message for 8th Grade Families
Medfield High School is excited to welcome the Class of 2024 to MHS! Please be aware of these upcoming dates:
- January 2020 - Students take placement tests
- Thursday, February 27 - 6:30-8:30pm - 8th Grade Student and Parent Night
- Thursday, March 5 @ 3:00 - The Aspen portal is "live"
- March 6-12 - Students will complete course selections
The program on February 27th is for students and parents to learn about the culture, classes, and extracurricular offerings at the high school.
The 2020-2021 Medfield High School Program of Studies will be shared with all students and parents in early February.

ADL Update
The ADL student group participated in their second full day of peer leadership training which focused on identifying bias and "isms" here at Blake and working through some personal identity activities. The short term goal is for peer leaders to get into 6th grade classrooms in early February. The ADL peer leader group will meet on Tuesday, 1/21, after school in room 505. Our final day of training is scheduled for Thursday, 1/23. We ask that peer leaders also fill out the Google Form emailed to them indicating if they are able to join for the ADL Youth Congress, held in Boston on 3/27, no later than Friday, 1/24.

Parent Focus Group Meeting - 1/27 6:30-8:00 p.m.
SBR and Systems of Feedback
Description from Christine Power...
As you may be aware, I am in the process of gathering and analyzing data regarding the Standards Based Reporting project at Blake Middle School. On Wednesday, January 8th, I held a Blake Parent Focus group during which parents shared their thoughts about Standards Based Reporting. There was much robust conversation during this session and this important input will be included within a culminating report. I am writing to extend another opportunity for parents to provide their thoughts on the Blake SBR project. I will facilitate a focus group discussion on MONDAY, JANUARY 27th from 6:30- 8pm at the Blake Library. If you are interested in participating, please rsvp to me directly at cpower@email.medfield.net.
Christine Power
Director of Instruction and Innovation
Medfield Public Schools

7th/8th Grade Dance - 1/24/20
Our Winter Wonderland dance for 7th and 8th grade students is Friday, January 24th from 7:00-9:00 p.m. in the Blake gym. Please plan to pick up students promptly at 9:00 p.m. We will be meeting with 7th and 8th graders this week to review expectations for safe and respectful behavior at the dance so please reinforce this at home in your family conversations. The cost to enter is $5.00. Attire for this dance is 'dressy optional' - we recognize that some students do like to dress up for this dance, but this is NOT a requirement and the dance is NOT a semi-formal. Many students may choose to dress a bit nicer than they do for a typical school day. For ALL of our dances, students are expected to abide by the guidelines of decency, cleanliness, and safety at all times. The use of cell phones and videoing is prohibited, except in the designated 'Cell-Phone Use' zone outside the gym.
If a student has not yet turned in a dance contract for the 2019-20 academic year, they should see Mrs. Ruminski or Mrs. Shaw before Friday, January 24th. Students who did hand one in for the first dance are all set. Any student who may be arriving late or leaving early, must reach out to Kelly Campbell prior to 1/24.

Summer Reading Input?
It's summer at Blake! The summer reading team will meet in early February to begin looking at titles for this summer's reading choices. Have a book you'd like to recommend? Please share with Kara Gelormini, kgelormini@email.medfield.net. Happy Reading!

Project 351
I am thrilled to announce that Zina Avagyan, one of our eighth grade students, has been selected as Medfield's ambassador for Project 351. Project 351 is a statewide community service project that brings an eighth grader from all 351 cities and towns in the commonwealth together on one single day to perform a service project. Ambassadors should embody the ethic of service and associated values -- humility, integrity, compassion, commitment, and generosity of spirit. In essence, Project 351 celebrates and encourages students' leadership and commitment to others. We are proud and honored that Zina will be representing Blake and the community of Medfield.

Advisory Update for Blake
In Advisory on Wednesday this week will be part of the learning styles lessons. Students will be grouped by learning style (learned last week), and they will be given a certain set of directions to create a paper airplane. We will then see which set of directions was the easiest to follow.
Blake Wednesday Advisory Website

Empty Bowls
Last year was our first annual Empty Bowls event, and this year we are back at it! For those who may not remember, Empty Bowls is a collaborative community dinner of soup and bread to raise money for Medfield Food Cupboard. A $25 ticket bought in advance gets you dinner along with two pottery classes to create a bowl to eat dinner out of and bring home with you. No time to make your own bowl? Choose a handmade bowl at dinner, fill it with delicious soup donated by local restaurants, and take your bowl home with you! All ages welcome! While advanced sign up is required, payments can be made via cash, check, or Venmo at the door. Last year was a lot of fun and we raised almost $2000 for the Medfield Food Cupboard! Please feel free to reach out with any questions and we hope to see you there! Contact Sara Higger with any questions - shigger@email.medfield.net.

Save the Date - Miss Amazing (3/28/20)
Massachusetts Miss Amazing is coming to Medfield High School for its seventh annual event! Miss Amazing’s mission statement reads, “Miss Amazing provides opportunities for girls and women with disabilities to build confidence and self-esteem in a supportive environment.” Join us in supporting this goal and giving these girls and young women an opportunity to shine. This full-day event is Saturday, March 28th, 2020 and will be held in the Medfield High School Auditorium at 6 PM. Ticket sales are open to the public beginning on March 14th at ma.missamazing.org. If you would like to donate, visit https://missamazing.org/donate/. If you want to volunteer with the event, you can sign up to be a buddy, half day volunteer (helping hand), or a right hand man online at https://missamazing.org/volunteer/. If you know a girl or young woman who might want to participate in this event, refer them to the Miss Amazing website so they can learn more! Sign up a participant at https://missamazing.org/participate/. See you there!

School Survey
The Blake Site Council has taken time to review the data collected from last year's survey and an Executive Summary will be distributed to families in the coming weeks. Focus areas on the survey centered on the topics of school culture, academic workloads, stress, and habits. Our intent is to distribute the 2019-2020 survey in early February in the hopes of gathering the data by February vacation. Stay tuned!

Blake is Social - Any Submissions?
Blake is social is still looking for work to post on our instagram and our website. If you come across great work please consider asking your student to submit it. Work and submissions can be e-mailed to cmcclelland@email.medfield.net or blakeissocial@email.medfield.net

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 http://www.medfield.net/o/medfield-public-schools/page/employment-opportunites--7 and find applications under the tab "employment opportunities". Please contact Kelly Campbell at kcampbell@email.medfield.net with any questions.

Substitute Nurses
As with our teaching positions, from time to time our nurse, Tricia Williams, will be out of the building and we need a substitute nurse for these days. We are fortunate that we have several substitute nurses in the district who are able to work on those days. If you are a registered nurse and have an interest in potentially serving as a substitute throughout the year, please let us know. You can contact me (nvaughn@email.medfield.net) or Tricia Williams (twilliams@email.medfield.net). By the same token, if you have friends in the area who would have an interest in serving as a substitute, please let them know that they can contact us as well. The safety and well-being of our students is always our top priority, and we would appreciate your interest in one of these roles.

Shoveler Needed
If you know of a student who can help with shoveling for a senior citizen in the following neighborhood, please reach out to Kelly Campbell. The student must be able to help in the following neighborhood:
Lowell Mason near Johns Ave and Castle. NO other volunteers are needed at this time so please respond only if you can help in this location.

D-S Challenge Success Presentation - 1/29/20
Dover-Sherborn has graciously opened up this event to the Medfield community...
RAISING RESILIENCE
A Mindfulness Presentation for K-12 Parents and Caregivers
Wednesday, January 29, 2020
6:30 - 8:30 pm
Choral Room, Dover-Sherborn Middle School
Psychologist and educational consultant Dr. Chris Willard will join the Dover-Sherborn community to speak with parents and caregivers about the tools and techniques he uses to help children and adolescents successfully navigate the stressors and anxieties in their lives. Dr. Willard is president of the Mindfulness in Education Network and author of several parenting books including Growing Up Mindful: Essential Practices to Help Children, Teens, and Families Find Balance, Calm, and Resilience.
Please RSVP here…
Raising Resilience with Dr. Chris Willard
For more information on Dr. Willard and his work, please see his website at http://drchristopherwillard.com.
Psychologist and educational consultant Dr. Chris Willard will join the Dover-Sherborn community to speak with parents and caregivers about the tools and techniques he uses to help children and adolescents successfully navigate the stressors and anxieties in their lives. Dr. Willard is president of the Mindfulness in Education Network and author of several parenting books including Growing Up Mindful: Essential Practices to Help Children, Teens, and Families Find Balance, Calm, and Resilience. For more information on Dr. Willard and his work, please see his website at http://drchristopherwillard.com.

MCPE Update
There are still a few spots left for our Trivia Night! Grab your friends for a fun night out on January 31 testing your trivia knowledge! Go to medfieldcoalition.org for more information and to register.

Blake PTO Update
Volunteers Needed for Blake! Please click on the link to the volunteer form below. Thank you!!
Blake PTO: 2019-2020 Volunteer Sign-Up Form

Week of 1/14/20-1/20/20

1/15/2020

Important Dates
1/15 - Superintendent’s Parent Advisory Council - 9:30 a.m. (Blake LMC)
1/16 - Black History Month - Student Planning Meeting (see details below)
1/17 - 1/2 Day for Students
           Professional Afternoon for Staff
1/20 - MLK, Jr. Day - No School
           Blake Day of Service
           Blood Drive at Blake (see info below)
1/23 - Blake PTO Meeting - 7 p.m. (Blake LMC)
1/24 - 7th/8th Grade Dance - 7-9 p.m.
1/31 - Term 2 Interim Reports go Home

Topic/Question for the Dinner Table
To help encourage conversations and dialogue about adapting and changing to make improvements, our topic/question for the dinner table is: What adjustments are you trying to make to become a better learner/student? Adapting Our Systems (Week of 1/12/20) (This is an anonymous Google Form)

Message for 8th Grade Families
Medfield High School is excited to welcome the Class of 2024 to MHS! Please be aware of these upcoming dates:
- January 2020 - Students take placement tests
- Thursday, February 27 - 6:30-8:30pm - 8th Grade Student and Parent Night
- Thursday, March 5 @ 3:00 - The Aspen portal is "live"
- March 6-12 - Students will complete course selections
The program on February 27th is for students and parents to learn about the culture, classes, and extracurricular offerings at the high school.
The 2020-2021 Medfield High School Program of Studies will be shared with all students and parents in early February.

ADL Update
The ADL student group participated in their first full day of peer leadership training. Through the three scheduled trainings, students will work on their own education on topics related to bias and on finding their voice to be leaders in the Blake community. The ADL peer leader group will meet on Tuesday, 1/14, after school in room 505.

7th/8th Grade Dance - 1/24/20
Our Winter Wonderland dance for 7th and 8th grade students is Friday, January 24th from 7:00-9:00 p.m. in the gym. The cost to enter is $5.00. Attire for this dance is 'dressy optional' - we recognize that some students do like to dress up for this dance, but this is NOT a requirement and the dance is NOT a semi-formal. Many students choose to dress a bit nicer than they do for a typical school day. For ALL of our dances, students are expected to abide by the guidelines of decency, cleanliness, and safety at all times. The use of cell phones is prohibited, except in the designated 'Cell-Phone Use' zone outside the gym. If a student has not yet turned in a dance contract for the 2019-20 academic year, he/she should see Mrs. Ruminski or Mrs. Shaw before Friday, January 24th .Any student who may be arriving late or leaving early, must reach out to Kelly Campbell prior to 1/24.

National Geography Bee at Blake
Congratulations to 7th grader Carl Kirchoff, winner of this year’s National Geographic GeoBee. Carl will now advance to the Massachusetts state competition. 6th grader Rhudra Mishra placed second, with 8th grader Max McGary coming in third. Congratulations to all who participated - see the chart of finalists below!

The National Geographic GeoBee is a geography competition designed to inspire and reward students’ curiosity about the world. Questions cover not only geography, but also ancient and world civilizations, cultures, and physical features. The Social Studies department is pleased to facilitate this fun and engaging common learning experience for our students. We commend all of the students for their participation.
Finalists
6th Grade: Alana Dolan, Brody Masters, Charlie Hurley, Cian Blake, Deven Careau, Gabby Cotaj, Henry Kaiser, Lauren Barr, Rhudra Mishra, Sam Stevens, Zain Abbas,
7th Grade: Ally Bonoldi, Amalia Miri, Amelia Mehan, Anna LaRowe, Carl Kirchhoff, David Sapozhnikov, Jack Daley, Jackson Razza, Maddie Harrington, Max Grzeskowiak, Shane Unger
8th Grade: Abby O’Neill, Alex Munz, Emma Rusin, Jason Gelormini, Matthew Stevens, Max McGary, Megan Hatch, Nick Gangemi, Richie Bradbury, Suran Warnakulasariya, Thomas Waters, Will Griffin

MLK, Jr. Day of Service - 1/20/20
We are about to kick off the MLK day of service. MLK day is a day of community service and we would like to give students a great opportunity to give back by opening up the school that day and having students come in and clean classrooms. Be on the lookout for sign ups the week of 1/13. Teachers please consider coming by and helping to chaperone this day. It is only from 10-12. We would love to have you!!
We are always open to new ideas for how we can serve the community and support making Monday, January 20 a day on! If you have any questions or suggestions, please e-mail Cynthia McClelland at cmcclelland@email.medfield.net.

Blake Blood Drive
The blood drive is off to a good start but we are still in a great need for donors. Please consider donating blood, especially from the noon to 2pm slots. Monday, January 20th 8am-2pm.Your student should be coming home with a sign up sheet if not please feel free to reach out to Cynthia McClelland at mcclelland@medfield.net . If you can't donate we would greatly appreciate it if you simply ask someone to take your place The blood drive is off to a good start but we are still in a great need for donors. Please consider donating blood, Monday, January 20th 8am-2pm.Your student should be coming home with a sign up sheet if not please feel free to reach out to Cynthia McClelland at mcclelland@medfield.net . If you can't donate we would greatly appreciate it if you simply ask someone to take your place. Words can't express how much this drive means to the student. Thank you for your help. e. Words can't express how much this drive means to the student. Thank you for your help.
Blake Blood Drive Sign-Up Form - 1/20/20
Give the gift of life this month by donating blood! Every two seconds someone is in need of blood; that’s 43,200 times in one day! There are four main red blood cell types; A, B, AB, and O. AB is the universal recipient; O negative is the universal donor of red blood cells. Each time you donate one pint of blood you can save up to three lives!

Blake History Month Planning Meeting
Our planning for Black History Month is underway! We are offering an afternoon for any students who would like to help with planning some events to celebrate Black History Month at Blake. Any interested students are invited to attend the meeting in Mrs. Cuomo's room 204 on Thursday, January 16th right after school. All are welcome!

MLK, Jr. Weekend - No Homework Weekend for Blake
In a continued effort to provide down time for students, staff, and families, MLK, JR. Weekend will be a 'No Homework Weekend' for all of Blake. No assignments will be given with a due date of 1/21 and tests, quizzes, and projects will not be due nor given January 21 or 22. Thank you to all of the staff for their support and help in making this happen. If you have any questions or concerns, let us know.

Project 351
I am thrilled to announce that Zina Avagyan, one of our eighth grade students, has been selected as Medfield's ambassador for Project 351. Project 351 is a statewide community service project that brings an eighth grader from all 351 cities and towns in the commonwealth together on one single day to perform a service project. Ambassadors should embody the ethic of service and associated values -- humility, integrity, compassion, commitment, and generosity of spirit. In essence, Project 351 celebrates and encourages students' leadership and commitment to others. We are proud and honored that Molly will be representing Blake and the community of Medfield.

Advisory Update for Blake
In Advisory this Wednesday, students will be starting a two week learning styles activity. They will begin by completing a quiz to learn more about their learning style. Students will organize their results in a graphic organizer and watch a video that summarizes each type of learning style.
Blake Wednesday Advisory Website

School Survey
The Blake Site Council has taken time to review the data collected from last year's survey and an Executive Summary will be distributed to families in the coming weeks. Focus areas on the survey centered on the topics of school culture, academic workloads, stress, and habits. Our intent is to distribute the 2019-2020 survey in early February in the hopes of gathering the data by February vacation. Stay tuned!

Blake is Social - Any Submissions?
Blake is social is still looking for work to post on our instagram and our website. If you come across great work please consider asking your student to submit it. Work and submissions can be e-mailed to cmcclelland@email.medfield.net or blakeissocial@email.medfield.net

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 http://www.medfield.net/o/medfield-public-schools/page/employment-opportunites--7 and find applications under the tab "employment opportunities". Please contact Kelly Campbell at kcampbell@email.medfield.net with any questions.

Substitute Nurses
As with our teaching positions, from time to time our nurse, Tricia Williams, will be out of the building and we need a substitute nurse for these days. We are fortunate that we have several substitute nurses in the district who are able to work on those days. If you are a registered nurse and have an interest in potentially serving as a substitute throughout the year, please let us know. You can contact me (nvaughn@email.medfield.net) or Tricia Williams (twilliams@email.medfield.net). By the same token, if you have friends in the area who would have an interest in serving as a substitute, please let them know that they can contact us as well. The safety and well-being of our students is always our top priority, and we would appreciate your interest in one of these roles.

Moxie Strings - 1/16/20
The MMA is proud to sponsor a return visit of The Moxie Strings on Jan. 16. The Billboard Top 20 classical strings musicians will work in clinics with Blake and MHS orchestra students during the day, and perform a can't-miss, high-energy concert with Medfield orchestra students that evening at 7pm in the MHS Auditorium. Admission is free to all Dale, Blake, and MHS orchestra students, and $12 for the general public. For tickets, visit medfieldmusicassociation.com or purchase at the door.

Shoveler Needed
If you know of a student who can help with shoveling for a senior citizen in the following neighborhood, please reach out to Kelly Campbell. The student must be able to help in the following neighborhood:
Lowell Mason near Johns Ave and Castle. NO other volunteers are needed at this time so please respond only if you can help in this location.

D-S Challenge Success Presentation - 1/29/20
Dover-Sherborn has graciously opened up this event to the Medfield community...
RAISING RESILIENCE
A Mindfulness Presentation for K-12 Parents and Caregivers
Wednesday, January 29, 2020
6:30 - 8:30 pm
Choral Room, Dover-Sherborn Middle School
Psychologist and educational consultant Dr. Chris Willard will join the Dover-Sherborn community to speak with parents and caregivers about the tools and techniques he uses to help children and adolescents successfully navigate the stressors and anxieties in their lives.

Dr. Willard is president of the Mindfulness in Education Network and author of several parenting books including Growing Up Mindful: Essential Practices to Help Children, Teens, and Families Find Balance, Calm, and Resilience.
Please RSVP here…
Raising Resilience with Dr. Chris Willard

For more information on Dr. Willard and his work, please see his website at http://drchristopherwillard.com.
Psychologist and educational consultant Dr. Chris Willard will join the Dover-Sherborn community to speak with parents and caregivers about the tools and techniques he uses to help children and adolescents successfully navigate the stressors and anxieties in their lives.

Dr. Willard is president of the Mindfulness in Education Network and author of several parenting books including Growing Up Mindful: Essential Practices to Help Children, Teens, and Families Find Balance, Calm, and Resilience.  For more information on Dr. Willard and his work, please see his website at http://drchristopherwillard.com.

MCPE Update
There are still a few spots left for our Trivia Night! Grab your friends for a fun night out on January 31 testing your trivia knowledge! Go to medfieldcoalition.org for more information and to register.

Blake PTO Update
Volunteers Needed for Blake! Please click on the link to the volunteer form below. Thank you!!
Blake PTO: 2019-2020 Volunteer Sign-Up Form

Week of 1/7/20-1/13/20

1/7/2020

Important Dates
1/7 - SEL Task Force - 3:30 p.m. (MHS)
1/8 - Focus Group Meeting - SBR/Feedback - 8:30 a.m. (see info below)
1/13 - Blake Site Council - 3:30 p.m. (Blake LMC)
1/15 - Superintendent’s Parent Advisory Council - 9:30 a.m. (Blake LMC)
1/17 - 1/2 Day for Students
           Professional Afternoon for Staff
1/20 - MLK, Jr. Day - No School
           Blake Day of Service
           Blood Drive at Blake (see info below)
1/23 - Blake PTO Meeting - 7 p.m. (Blake LMC)
1/31 - Term 2 Interim Reports go Home

Topic/Question for the Dinner Table
To help encourage conversations and dialogue about finding, developing, and using strategies to improve and learn, our topic/question for the dinner table is: What strategies do you use to help when you are feeling stressed? Making Progress (Week of 1/5/20) (This is an anonymous Google Form)

Parent Focus Group Meeting - 1/8 at 8:30 a.m.
SBR and Systems of Feedback
As you may be aware, we are in the process of gathering and analyzing data regarding the Standards Based Reporting project at Blake Middle School. On Wednesday, January 8th from 8:30-9:30 am, we will hold a Blake Parent Focus group during which parents will have the opportunity to share their thoughts about SBR. This meeting will be held in the Blake library and will be conducted by Christine Power, Director of Instruction and Innovation. If you are unable to make this meeting and you have questions or would like to share feedback, please contact Christine Power directly at cpower@email.medfield.net.
Christine Power
Director of Instruction and Innovation
Medfield Public Schools

Blake Winter Intramurals
Our winter intramurals have begun - if you have any questions, please contact Matt Marenghi (mmarenghi@email.medfield.net).

National Geography Bee at Blake
The grade level winners will be competing after school in the LMC at 2:15 p.m. on Thursday, January 9 to determine our school representative.

Blake in the News!
Check out some recent posts that highlighted Blake…
Medfield students participate in Hour of Code event
BMS 8th Graders Serve Up a Holiday Feast at Tilden Village!

Thank You to MCPE and PTO
Thank you to the Blake PTO and MCPE (Medfield Coalition for Public Education) for their generous support of our endeavors/grants. We greatly appreciate the contributions as we look to provide unique and innovative experiences for our students!

MHS Alumni Visit Blake
Last Friday, January 3 during 8th grade science classes, our students heard talks from Medfield graduates who are majoring in or working in the field of STEM. Twelve recent graduates volunteered to come to Blake and talk on topics including computer science, medicine and chemistry. Special thanks to Orla Berry for her help organizing these visits!

Blake Blood Drive
January is Blood Donation Month
An American Red Cross Blood Drive Is Coming Soon!
When: Monday January 20, 2020
from 8 AM to 2 PM
Where: Blake Middle School Gym
Donating blood can save up to three lives. January is usually a time when hospitals experience blood shortages, so your donation is needed now more than ever. Sign up here:

Blake Blood Drive Sign-Up Form - 1/20/20
Give the gift of life this month by donating blood! Every two seconds someone is in need of blood; that’s 43,200 times in one day! There are four main red blood cell types; A, B, AB, and O. AB is the universal recipient; O negative is the universal donor of red blood cells. Each time you donate one pint of blood you can save up to three lives!

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service - 1/20/20
Martin Luther King, Jr. was a man whose goal was to make our country a better place for everyone. While his life was cut short due to assassination, MLK's goal to make our country a better place is still very much alive. On November 2, 1983 President Reagan made January 15th ( MLK Jr'.s birthday) a federal holiday, a day off for all. But a day off to support a man who gave his life to the betterment of our country did not really seem like a fitting honor so on August 23, 1994 President Bill Clinton signed a bill that moved the date of the holiday from MLK, Jr's birthday to the Monday after that day. The bill also stated that it was meant to be a day of service. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is a not a day off, but a day on. To honor this day of service Blake Middle School will open its doors from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. to give students an opportunity to serve their community. Some of the activity students will be doing during this day of service will be: beautifying the school, making Valentine's day cards, bookmarks and paper flowers, for soldiers and those living in the nursing home. Students will also be making bracelets, which we will give to Children's Hospital for ill children. We are always open to new ideas for how we can serve the community and support making Monday, January 20 a day on! If you have any questions or suggestions, please e-mail Cynthia McClelland at cmcclelland@email.medfield.net.

Project 351
I am thrilled to announce that Zina Avagyan, one of our eighth grade students, has been selected as Medfield's ambassador for Project 351. Project 351 is a statewide community service project that brings an eighth grader from all 351 cities and towns in the commonwealth together on one single day to perform a service project. Ambassadors should embody the ethic of service and associated values -- humility, integrity, compassion, commitment, and generosity of spirit. In essence, Project 351 celebrates and encourages students' leadership and commitment to others. We are proud and honored that Molly will be representing Blake and the community of Medfield.

Advisory Update for Blake
Happy New Year! In Wednesday's advisory this week, advisors are encouraged to search the team building portion of the website to help gear up for the new year!
Blake Wednesday Advisory Website

Information from Mrs. Williams and Mrs. Keigan
It seems to be that time of the year when we are starting to see an increase in illness throughout the school. Our Blake school nurses, Mrs. Williams and Mrs. Keigan, have asked that we share this Illness guidelines link for information on sending your child back to school following an illness. Additionally, please note the following reminders:

Students should go to the nurse's office if they are feeling ill, rather than text parents directly and getting dismissed via the main office. It is important that we are tracking illness in our school community and that students are cared for by an adult while they are not feeling well at school.
Please review handwashing, hand-sanitizing, and tissue disposal ettiquette with your child so that they can minimize the spread of germs at school.
Please remind students that sharing foods, drinks and utensils at lunch can lead to the spread of illness. It is a surprisingly common occurrence.
Please avoid sending your sick child to school just to take a test or quiz. We are happy to provide another time for your child to take it so that they can stay home, rest, and avoid spreading illness to other students.
If your child is out for multiple days, you may contact the grade level guidance counselor or cluster leader to request that work be left in the guidance office for someone to pick up so that your child does not fall behind.

We hope that this information is helpful. Do not hesitate to reach out to Tricia Williams, School Nurse, at twilliams@email.medfield.net if you have questions or concerns.

Community Service Club Information - Coat Drive
The Community Service Club of Blake is holding its annual coat drive right now. The drive will conclude in early January. Please donate new or gently used WINTER coats. The donation box can be found at the front of the school. All coats that are donated will be delivered to Medfield's Anton Cleaners who sponsors the drive.

Blake is Social - Any Submissions?
Blake is social is looking for winter sports submissions. We would love pictures from ski club, or from basketball, or just an amazing snapshot of your snowman. What is Blake up to in the winter??? Work and submissions can be e-mailed to cmcclelland@email.medfield.net or blakeissocial@email.medfield.net

Blake’s Affinity Groups
The purpose of an affinity group is to provide a forum of support for students who may feel a disconnection relative to identity to their larger school community. Such disconnections to identity may include, but not be limited to, race, ethnicity, gender, religion, ability, and sexual orientation. An affinity group’s goal is to play a vital role in ensuring an inclusive environment where all are valued, included, and empowered to succeed.

An affinity group is open to students across every grade level. It is arranged for students in an affinity group to meet at least once a month during a mutually agreed upon time and the meetings are supervised by at least one staff member at Blake.

As the need for an affinity group may stem from a lack of or weaker connection to the larger Medfield community, efforts will be made to strengthen connections to the community. To this end, members of the community are welcome and at times will be invited to attend affinity group meetings.

For more information about starting or joining an affinity group at Blake, please contact Matt Marenghi, Guidance Counselor: mmarenghi@email.medfield.net or 508-359-2445.

Blake Site Council Book Discussion Group - Middle School Matters
This year the Blake Site Council’s first book is Middle School Matters by Phyllis Fagell. Stay tuned for more information and we hope you can join in these discussions!

Theme of Courage for 2019-2020
Our theme for this academic year at Blake is one of Courage. We believe that this theme will extend the work we have done over the last seven years with our themes of Community, Perseverance, Creativity, Acceptance, Collaboration, Empathy, Diversity, and Happiness. As a staff we have begun brainstorming ideas and I encourage all families to join us in the brainstorming process as well. As ideas and thoughts come to mind, do not hesitate to e-mail me (nvaughn@email.medfield.net) or Kelly C. (kcampbell@email.medfield.net).

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 http://www.medfield.net/o/medfield-public-schools/page/employment-opportunites--7 and find applications under the tab "employment opportunities". Please contact Kelly Campbell at kcampbell@email.medfield.net with any questions.

Substitute Nurses
As with our teaching positions, from time to time our nurse, Tricia Williams, will be out of the building and we need a substitute nurse for these days. We are fortunate that we have several substitute nurses in the district who are able to work on those days. If you are a registered nurse and have an interest in potentially serving as a substitute throughout the year, please let us know. You can contact me (nvaughn@email.medfield.net) or Tricia Williams (twilliams@email.medfield.net). By the same token, if you have friends in the area who would have an interest in serving as a substitute, please let them know that they can contact us as well. The safety and well-being of our students is always our top priority, and we would appreciate your interest in one of these roles.

Moxie Strings - 1/16/20
The MMA is proud to sponsor a return visit of The Moxie Strings on Jan. 16. The Billboard Top 20 classical strings musicians will work in clinics with Blake and MHS orchestra students during the day, and perform a can't-miss, high-energy concert with Medfield orchestra students that evening at 7pm in the MHS Auditorium. Admission is free to all Dale, Blake, and MHS orchestra students, and $12 for the general public. For tickets, visit medfieldmusicassociation.com or purchase at the door.

MCPE Update
Registration for our 7th annual Trivia Night is open! Have you gotten your teams of 8 together yet for this fun and popular event?? Visit medfieldcoalition.org to register! Teams of up to 8 adult players (21 and over) will compete for prizes on January 31! This promises to be fast-paced and humor-filled, testing your knowledge in geography, sports, history, and more. All proceeds from this event will support our Medfield Schools.

Blake PTO Update
Volunteers Needed for Blake! Please click on the link to the volunteer form below. Thank you!!
Blake PTO: 2019-2020 Volunteer Sign-Up Form

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