12/15 - Pride Alliance Mtg
Blake Winter Band Concert
12/19-12/23 - Blake Spirit Week! (see details below)
12/20 - 7th Grade Field Trip to A Christmas Carol
Blake Winter Orchestra Concert
12/21 - Blake Student Council
12/22 - Pride Alliance Mtg
Blake Winter Concert Snow Date
12/23 - ½ Day for Students and Staff
12/24-1/2 - Winter Vacation
12/1 - Happy New Year!
12/2 - Blake Site Council
Blake’s Question of the Week
To encourage dialogue and reflection about the process of learning and role that creativity plays, our question for the week is: What helps you to be creative and learn? Why? Encouraging Learning (Week of 12/11/22) (This is an anonymous Google Form)
Term 1 Report Cards
During advisory on Monday, 12/12, students received their report cards for Term 1, along with a Term 1 Report Card Sign-Off Sheet to be completed and returned to advisors. 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. In addition, your student’s guidance counselor is an important resource.
Reporting and Feedback System
The purpose of reporting on learning is to provide feedback on a student’s progress and to help direct future efforts. Effective feedback to students during the learning process is essential to a healthy and productive learning experience. On our report cards, students are receiving feedback in two major realms: (1) Priority Standards and (2) Learning Skills.
The feedback on Priority Standards provides information on the student's progress toward meeting the aligned curriculum benchmarks addressed by each department. Priority standards are the ‘essential standards’ determined by each of our respective departments (i.e. math, English, science, etc.) - they stay consistent from grade to grade, but the specific topics within each content area vary in accordance with the MA state curriculum frameworks.
The feedback on Learning Skills provides information on the student's progress toward acquiring skills important for life-long learning that we strive to foster and help develop in our students.
Below I have outlined some information regarding our feedback and reporting system…
- All Blake classes utilize a 1-4 scale for the priority standards.
- 7th and 8th grade students receive a single end-of-term letter grade for 'academic' classes (math, science, SS, ELA, and World Language) based on their work throughout the term. This grade will align to the following format: A, A-, B+, B, B-, C+, C, C-, Does Not Meet Standard.**
- Feedback on the Learning Skills is reported using a frequency scale.
** Here is a link to the ‘summation models’, outlining the composite mapping of how the summation of the priority standards establish the letter grades for grades 7 and 8…
Blake Summation Models - 2022-2023
This system was refined and made in consultation with Dr. Nathaniel Brown, Associate Research Professor of Measurement, Evaluation, Statistics, and Assessment at Boston College's Lynch School of Education. Dr. Brown is a leading expert in assessment and evaluation and he has provided professional development for our staff. Later this term we will be holding informational sessions for families, in an effort to collaboratively support the learning process for our students. Our overarching goal remains to continue steadfast efforts to provide meaningful, actionable, learner-centered feedback for all of our learners via...
- more descriptive and actionable feedback to students and families
- more meaningful and personalized assessment and grading practices
- greater calibration of expectations and assessment practices between/amongst teachers
Reflection For Students
After receiving their report cards, time was spent in advisory for all students to reflect on their work thus far via a Google Form. Our hope is that this reflection will help students identify areas of success as well as areas for growth, and to foster more connections with staff and trusted adults. I have outlined the questions below and encourage you to have conversations this week to help bridge the connections between home and school...
- The second half of Term 1 has been positive for me. (Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree or Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree)
- Explain why you chose the answer you did to the question above.
- During the second half of Term 1, I Iearned something interesting or did something in school that excited me. (Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree or Disagree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree)
- Explain why you chose the answer you did to the question above.
- At Blake there are opportunities for me to do what I do best every day.
- What are some ways teachers could or do provide opportunities for you to be successful in school?
- I have fun at Blake.
- Explain why you chose the answer you did to the question above.
- Reflecting on your learning and experiences during Term 1, what are you most proud of?
- Reflecting on your learning and experiences during Term 1 and the Term 1 reports from your teachers, what surprised you? Was this a positive or negative surprise? Why?
- Would you like to check in with your advisor or one of your teachers?
- If you answered yes to the previous question, which teacher would you like to speak with and about what? Put "none" if you do not wish to check in with one of your teachers.
- Your learning skills are evaluated based on how often teacher's observe you demonstrating each skill. Reflect on your learning skills, the feedback you have received from your teachers, and what you have learned about yourself as a learner. WHAT IS AN AREA OF STRENGTH that you have shown and demonstrated? Explain how you have demonstrated/shown this strength in your class(es).
- Your learning skills are evaluated based on how often teacher's observe you demonstrating each skill. Reflect on your learning skills, the feedback you have received from your teachers, and what you have learned about yourself as a learner. WHAT IS AN AREA OF GROWTH/IMPROVEMENT for your learning? What is one step you can take to improve/grow in this learning skill?
- Describe a goal for yourself as a learner as we begin Term 2. What is one step you could take to help accomplish this goal?
- How can we help you as a learner? Please share ideas.
- What idea(s) do you have for activities in advisory? Other 'community building' ideas? Any suggestions for how we can recognize Dr. MLK, Jr. Day or Black History Month in February?
- If you had time to learn about anything you want this year, what would it be?
- Do you have anything else you would like to share with us? What questions do you have? (Optional)
Spirit Week at Blake - 12/19-12/23!
Student Council cordially invites all staff and students to participate in a December Spirit Week next week- Monday 12/19 to Friday 12/23. The spirit days are as follows:
Monday 12/19 World Cup Day
Wear your favorite team jersey and/or colors!
Tuesday 12/20- Class Color Day
8th Grade- Pink
7th Grade- Blue
6th Grade- Green
Wednesday 12/21
Comfy Cozy/PJ Day
Thursday 12/22
Neon Day
Friday 12/23
Festive Friday
We can't wait to see all your spirit!
- Blake Student Council
Reminder for all Blake Students and Families - Gift Giving
This is a reminder that as a school we will not be orchestrating 'Secret Santa' type activities for students in which gifts are being purchased and/or given. For a number of reasons, school is not the proper forum for the exchange of gifts, and we appreciate your understanding and support.
Computer Science Week at Blake!
Computer Science Week at Blake was a great success! Thanks to Diane Horvath for providing hands-on activities for students to experience STEAM!
CS Week & better known as the Hour of Code is celebrated around the world during the week of Grace Hopper’s birthday. It is an annual call to action to inspire K-12 students to learn computer science, advocate for equity, and celebrate the contributions of students, teachers and partners in the field.
This year Blake expanded the CS activities into each content area to show how CS is related, applied and its impact, such as learning about CS Heroes, binary numbers, solar systems & sonification, history of Morse Code/ Cybersecurity. Some of the activities were unplugged and involve no coding and other activities are online, self-paced tutorials for students to complete. The goal was for every student to have opportunities to explore career pathways, the potential impact of CS, discover creative tools, learn a new language, apply some math & science, and have fun!
Samaritans Presentation Follow Up
The 7th graders participated in the Samaritans, Inc. Suicide Prevention Training this week. The goals of the program are:
- To help our students understand that depression is a treatable illness, and help them assess whether or not they may have symptoms consistent with depression.
- To explain that suicide is a preventable tragedy that can occur as a result of untreated depression.
- To provide students training in how to identify serious depression and potential suicidality in a friend.
- To impress upon our students that they can help themselves or a friend by taking a simple step of talking to a responsible adult about their concerns.
The parent webinar provided parents with information regarding:
- Suicide risk factors and warning signs
- Coping skills and resiliency building
- Facts, figures, and myth-busting
- Best practices for talking to and helping someone who may be suicidal
- School and community resources
Additional resources can be found here and on the Guidance Department website.
Blake Intramurals
The Winter Intramural session is loosely set to run from mid January until the beginning of April. Be on the lookout for the offerings shortly after we return from winter break. If you have any questions, please contact Matt Marenghi ([email protected]).
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!
‘Coats for Kids’ Drive
We are collecting winter coats for those in need. The coat drive is called “Coats for Kids”, but coats for all ages are more than welcomed. The collection box will be located in the Blake front lobby. Please check if you have any coats that your family no longer needs that can be donated. The collection will run up until winter vacation. Thank you for supporting this great cause!
Blood Drive for MLK, Jr. Weekend
** Please see the message below from Cynthia McClelland...
Hello Medfield community,
I am proud to announce our annual MLK day blood drive, and it will be held at the middle school. Right now, we are looking for students to serve on the blood drive committee. Students on the committee will be responsible for organizing, promoting and supporting the Red Cross in running the blood drive the day of. If your child is interested they can reach out to Cynthia McClelland at [email protected].
Message from Medfield’s Destination Imagination Team…
Medfield's Destination Imagination organization is looking for volunteers to be appraisers at either of the regional tournaments (March 4th in Medfield or March 12th in Beverly). It is the perfect opportunity for someone 18 years or older (and out of high school) who would like to spend the day praising the accomplishments of each dedicated and hugely creative Destination Imagination team and awarding as many points as possible. It is truly a fun day spent enjoying the creativity of students in grades 3-12 and is a great community volunteer opportunity for anyone- college students, retired folks, those who have previously participated in Destination Imagination, etc.). Contact [email protected] for more information and learn about Destination Imagination at destinationimagination.org.
National Science Bee
Registration is now open for the National Science Bee. Registration is free and easy! Click on this link National Science Bee for information and click on this link to navigate to the qualifying event (20 min Online Regional Qualifying exam.
Students compete in separate grade divisions to keep things fair and fun. Study guides and free practice questions from past years' competitions can be found on this website.
MakerSpace Materials
Thanks to all who have been bringing in cardboard for the Makerspace. We are all stocked up for the moment! But, there is always a need for different kinds of tape, hot glue sticks,small binder clips, brad fasteners, small magnets, popsicle sticks, etc.- basic office supplies/crafty stuff.
Private School Applications
For those families looking to apply to private school for next year, please make sure all materials (all teacher recommendation forms, transcript request, an 8x11 envelope and 4 stamps per envelope) are to the guidance office at least 3 weeks prior to the application due date. We want to make sure the teachers have sufficient time to provide thoughtful letters for all students applying. If the forms will be sent electronically to the teachers, please e-mail Mrs. Avery and your student's guidance counselor to inform them. Mrs. Avery tracks all applications and makes sure they get out in time. Any questions, please contact Mr. Marenghi (6th), Ms. Allen (7th), or Mrs. Dondero (8th).
Recess Reminder for All Parents/Guardians
This is a gentle reminder to families that students are going outside for recess and should bring weather-appropriate clothing like winter jackets and gloves so that they will be warm outdoors.
Late Bus For MS/HS Students
Late bus service runs Monday through Thursday departing from outside the auditorium entrance at Medfield High School at 3:45 PM. We are unable to provide door-to-door service, but our bus company established a route with seven stops strategically placed throughout the town. These stops will remain consistent throughout the year.
Stop 1 - Corner of Lantern and Flintlocke
Stop 2 - Corner of Blacksmith and Marilyn
Stop 3 - Corner of Bridge and Marsh
Stop 4 - Corner of Algonquin and Orchard
Stop 5 - Corner of Indian Hill and Hopi
Stop 6 - Corner of South and Wilson
Stop 7 - Corner of Hummingbird and Granite
We will run this pilot throughout the 2022-2023 school year and then evaluate the interest for next year. Please contact the business office at 508-359-2302 if you have any questions.
Blake’s Pride Alliance
We are pleased to announce that the club formerly known as Blake GSA is now called Pride Alliance! This more inclusive name better represents the values of our club, where we strive to create a safe space for people in the community, those who want to learn more about the LGBTQIA+ community, and also those who wish to learn how to become a better ally. Meetings are every Thursday until 2:45 in room 502. Everyone is welcome to join, regardless of identity.
Blake Student Council
Blake’s Student Council meets every Wednesday afternoon from 2:15-2:45 in Mrs. Shaw’s room (525). All are welcome to join - the more members we have, the more we can accomplish! Spread the word!
Substitute Applications
Blake is always looking for substitute teacher applicants. Applicants need not have teaching licensure but should be energetic, flexible and enjoy working with children. For more information or to apply, please visit Medfield Public Schools - Employment Opportunities and look under ‘Substitute Teaching’. Please contact Marcia Berkowtiz ([email protected]) with any questions.
Message from the Medfield Alumni Association
Looking for the perfect gift for the holidays? Our Alumni shirts are back in stock and ready to ship! We also have future alumni shirts in youth sizes! Limited quantities so get yours before they sell out! All proceeds go towards our scholarship programs!
Please reach out to [email protected] with any questions! https://form.jotform.com/223328237287056
Medfield K-8 PTO Dues Flyer - 2022
Dear Medfield Families:
The Medfield K-8 Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) would like to extend a warm welcome to all new and returning families to the 2022-2023 school year! The K-8 PTO is a volunteer organization that supports initiatives, activities and events designed to enrich and supplement the educational experiences of every Medfield K-8 student. Each school has its own PTO
Board that works closely with the staff to provide opportunities tailored specifically to that school. We come together as a K-8 organization during the school year to share ideas, fundraising opportunities and provide
financial support across the district.
HOW CAN YOU SUPPORT THE MEDFIELD K-8 PTO?
● Contribute – The K-8 PTO runs entirely on donations! Last school year, we started 2 new traditions: K-8 Medfield Madness Online Auction and the K-5 Rainbow Run. We are excited to announce that Medfield Madness will be back this school year and the Rainbow Run is planned for Fall of 2023. We are thankful for the support of so many to make both fundraisers a huge success.
Today we are asking for your support to kick off the new school year with our Annual Dues Drive. The need is always greater than what we can fund throughout the year, so every dollar raised is appreciated. The suggested $30 per student amount is just a guideline - all donations welcome! You can now pay your dues online through Venmo or PayPal, as well as by check.
● Volunteer – The K-8 PTO needs you! We encourage you to attend school PTO meetings and become involved. Our online volunteer sign-up form is a great way to stay informed. There is no obligation to volunteer. As events are created and/or volunteer opportunities arise those on the distribution will be the first to know. Please sign up today by visiting www.medfieldk8pto.com.
Thank you for your continued support. It’s going to be a year to remember, and we look forward to supporting each and every child inside and outside of the classroom!
Sincerely,
Nicole Drummond
K-8 PTO President