Weekly Announcements

VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL of STEM
WEEKLY BULLETIN
Wednesday, January 13th – Tuesday, January 19th, 2021 

CALENDAR OF COMING EVENTS AT VMS:

Wednesday, January 13^th – Distance Learning Day for all students

Thursday, January 14^th – Cohort A – Distance Learning

Friday, January 15^th – Cohort B – Distance Learning

Monday, January 18^th – NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS – Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Tuesday, January 19^th – Cohort B – Distance Learning

Wednesday, January 20^th – NO SCHOOL FOR ALL STUDENTS – Staff Development Day

  

STAFF AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS: (New announcements are in italic)

From Mrs. Spychalla:

1. Sixth grade teams can still sign up for the virtual Stock Market Game. If you would like to play, please email me the names of students on your team and the captain’s name. A team can be from 2 to 5 players. I have registered teams who have already contacted me. I should get your user name and password within a week.
2.  If you submitted a VFW essay last fall, within the next few weeks I hope to get more information. Stay tuned. We will probably have a zoom meeting for the participants.

 

From Mrs. Martin:

R.E.A.D. Club returns on Wednesday, February 10^th – this time it’s Hogwarts Escape Room!  More details will be available soon. Mark your calendar and plan to join us for the fun!

 

PARENT AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

From Mrs. Thomas: School pictures are in. Please stop by the VMSS office and pick yours up between the hours of 7am – 3 pm.

***PICTURE RE-TAKE DAY WILL BE ON FEBRUARY 17^TH, 2021. MORE INFO COMING SOON!***

 

PARENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

From Food Service:

Meal kit pick up times have changed on Fridays beginning the week of January 18^th TO 10am – 11am

NO MEAL KIT DISTRIBUTUION ON MONDAY, JANUARY 18^TH DUE TO MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR DAY

Food Service meal kit pick up times beginning the week of January 18^th:

Monday 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm ***Reminder - January 18^th – NO PICK UP available***

Tuesday 7:30 am – 9:00 am

Wednesday 10:00 am – 11:00 am

Thursday 7:30 am – 9:00 am

Friday 10:00 am – 11:00 am

VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL of STEM
WEEKLY BULLETIN
Wednesday, January 6th – Tuesday, January 12th, 2021

CALENDAR OF COMING EVENTS AT VMS:

Wednesday, January 6^th – Distance Learning Day

Thursday, January 7^th – Cohort A – Distance Learning

Friday, January 8^th – Cohort B – Distance Learning

Monday, January 11^th – Cohort A Distance Learning

Tuesday, January 12^th – Cohort B – Distance Learning

Wednesday, January 13^th – Distance Learning Day

 

STAFF AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS: (New announcements are in italic)

From Mrs. Spychalla:

1. The Stock Market Game for 6^th graders will begin soon. This year it will be virtual. If you would like to join, please email me with the following information: Names of team members (two to five students) and the name of captain. If you messaged me before winter vacation, please reply again.
2. This message is for students who submitted a VFW essay to me last fall: The VFW has finished reading and evaluating your essays. They have ordered participation tokens and an award for at least one student. They will contact me when the award is ready. The recognition ceremony will be virtual later this winter. I will update you in the weekly bulletin when I know more.

 

From Mr. Lindquist and Mr. Roseen: Attention all VMSS students!

Have some great pictures of your hard work while at home during this crazy time of Covid? Submit them here so we can capture them in the yearbook for your memories to look back on even though we wouldn’t want to relive this time.

Link: https://images.jostens.com/415463726

We would love to have some awesome candid shots as well as some great posed pictures of you while you are working and living at home.

Looking forward to seeing your pieces of art that represent you in this time of Covid.

VMSS Yearbook Club

 

From Mrs. Martin:

R.E.A.D. Club returns on Wednesday, February 10^th – this time it’s Hogwarts Escape Room!  More details will be available soon. Mark your calendar and plan to join us for the fun!

 

PARENT AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

From Mrs. Thomas: School pictures are in. Please stop by the VMSS office and pick yours up between the hours of 7am – 3 pm.

VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL of STEM
WEEKLY BULLETIN
Wednesday, December 23rd – Tuesday, January 5^th, 2021

CALENDAR OF COMING EVENTS AT VMS:

WINTER BREAK – WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23^RD – FRIDAY, JANUARY 1^ST.

Monday, January 4^th – SCHOOL RESUMES -  Cohort A – Distance Learning

Tuesday, January 5^th – Cohort B – Distance Learning

Wednesday, January 6^th – Distance Learning Day

 

Have a great and safe winter break!

 

 STAFF AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS: (New announcements are in italic)

From Mrs. Martin:

R.E.A.D. Club returns on Wednesday, February 10^th – this time it’s Hogwarts Escape Room!  More details will be available soon. Mark your calendar and plan to join us for the fun!

 

From Mrs. Spychalla: Sixth graders who would like to play the Stock Market game virtually, please find 1 to 4 other sixth graders to be on your team and email their names to Mrs. Spychalla.

 

From Mrs. Vaillancourt and Mrs. Erickson:

All students participating in Declam, should be joined up with our Schoology page for details about our meeting schedule.  Also, make sure you have signed up to participate in MyPaymentsPlus so you are officially part of our team!  We look forward to an awesome virtual season!!!  See Mrs. Vaillancourt and Mrs. Erickson with any questions you have.

 

PARENT AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

From Mrs. Thomas: School pictures are in. Please stop by the VMSS office and pick yours up between the hours of 7am – 3 pm.

 

PARENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

There will be no meal distribution Dec. 23 through Jan. 3. Meal distribution resumes Monday, Jan. 4 from 4-5:30 p.m. If you could benefit from additional resources, we have put together this list of local food shelves and community meal opportunities.

VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL of STEM
WEEKLY BULLETIN
Wednesday, December 16th – Tuesday, December 22^nd, 2020

CALENDAR OF COMING EVENTS AT VMS:

Wednesday, December 16^th – Distance Learning Day for all students

Thursday, December 17^th – Cohort A – Distance Learning

Friday, December 18^th – Cohort B – Distance Learning

Monday, December 21^st – Cohort A – Distance Learning

Tuesday, December 22^nd – Cohort B – Distance Learning

WINTER BREAK – WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23^RD – FRIDAY, JANUARY 1^ST.

Monday, January 4^th – Cohort A – Distance Learning

 

STAFF AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS: (New announcements are in italic)

Message for Students from Mrs. Mills

Please download and install OS 14.3 as soon as possible!

Many iPads are getting TOO FULL to install the update or install an app.

Please see the link below on how to fix this.

VMSSiPadCriticalUpdates

·         Technical Issues

·         Schoology/Seesaw Issues

·         Asistencia en español.

·         Caawinta Afka ee Af-soomaaliga

From Mrs. Martin and Mrs. Kump:

Winter break will be here SOON, so get yourself a great book or two to read while you have time off from school! Place books on hold through the catalog or contact Ms. Martin or Mrs. Kump for help in selecting the perfect titles.

From Mrs. Vaillancourt and Mrs. Erickson:

Hello all! We are excited to tell you that our SPEECH/DECLAM TEAM will be virtual this year! We will have all of our meetings and meets over ZOOM!

Mrs. Erickson and I will be hoting our first meeting/practice on Monday, December 21^st and Tuesday, December 22^nd, and we would love to see you!!!

All are welcome…this includes all 6^th, 7^th, and 8^th graders. We will be meeting virtually, starting weekly the week before winter break through the first week in February. We’d love to have you join the team!

PARENT AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

From Mrs. Thomas: School pictures are in. Please stop by the VMSS office and pick yours up between the hours of 7am – 3 pm.

VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL of STEM
WEEKLY BULLETIN
Wednesday, December 9th – Tuesday, December 15th 2020

CALENDAR OF COMING EVENTS AT VMS:

Wednesday, December 9^th – NO SCHOOL – TEACHER WORKSHOP DAY

Thursday, December 10^th – Cohort A – Distance Learning

Friday, December 11^th – Cohort B – Distance Learning

Monday, December 14^th – Cohort A – Distance Learning

Tuesday, December 15^th – Cohort B – Distance Learning

Wednesday, December 16^th – Distance Learning Day for all students

 

STAFF AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS: (New announcements are in italic)

From Mrs. Martin and Mrs. Kump:

The library is still open!  You may request books online when you sign in to the VMSS library catalog.  If you have problems requesting a book, just message Mrs. Kump at sheri.kump@district196.org.  She will put the book on a cart in the entryway of VMSS.  (There is a Return Box there too.)  If you can’t get to the school, message Mrs. Kump and she will figure out a way to get your books to you.  **Try to read 20 minutes every day!**

From Mrs.Vaillancourt and Mrs. Erickson:

PARENT AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

From Mrs. Thomas: School pictures are in. Please stop by the VMSS office and pick yours up between the hours of 7am – 3 pm.

PARENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Child Care Worker Job Openings

District 196 is seeking applicants to fill vacancies in our tier 1 critical worker child care program. The position is 10am-2pm, Monday through Friday, at various elementary and middle school buildings across District 196. Rate of pay is $17/hr. Please apply online. 

From the District Office:

District 196 is in need of both Teacher and Clerical Substitutes.  You can substitute teach with a 4 year degree in District 196 by obtaining a Short Call Substitute License at https://mn.gov/pelsb/ .  Along with that license, you will need to attend an orientation for Short Call Substitutes with District 196.  Please consider signing up at https://www.district196.org/services/human-resources/substitute-teaching .

Clerical Subbing covers a wide variety of duties with very flexible hours.  Please consider your availability and if your able to help out.  To attend and an orientation, visit https://www.district196.org/services/human-resources/clerical-substitutes .  All questions can be directed to Barb Hall barb.hall@district196.org .

VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL of STEM
WEEKLY BULLETIN
Wednesday, December 2nd – Tuesday, December 8th 2020

CALENDAR OF COMING EVENTS AT VMS:

Wednesday, December 2^nd – Distance Learning Day for all students

Thursday, December 3^rd – Cohort A – Distance Learning

Friday, December 4^th – Cohort B – Distance Learning

                LAST DAY OF TRI 1

Monday, December 7^th – Cohort A – Distance Learning – TRI 2 begins

Tuesday, December 8^th – Cohort B – Distance Learning

Wednesday, December 9^th – NO SCHOOL – TEACHER WORKSHOP DAY

 

STAFF AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS: (New announcements are in italic)

From Mrs. Spychalla: The unofficial geography bee is planned for next week. If you want to participate and have not emailed Mrs. Spychalla, please contact her for the details.

The Stock Market Game for 6^th graders will begin in January and go through the end of April. Students choose their own teams so begin thinking about who you would like on your team. There is no cost.

 

From Mrs. Thomas: School pictures are in. Please stop by the VMSS office and pick yours up between the hours of 7am – 3 pm.

 

PARENT AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

PARENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Child Care Worker Job Openings

District 196 is seeking applicants to fill vacancies in our tier 1 critical worker child care program. The position is 10am-2pm, Monday through Friday, at various elementary and middle school buildings across District 196. Rate of pay is $17/hr. Please apply online. 

 

From the District Office:

District 196 is in need of both Teacher and Clerical Substitutes.  You can substitute teach with a 4 year degree in District 196 by obtaining a Short Call Substitute License at https://mn.gov/pelsb/ .  Along with that license, you will need to attend an orientation for Short Call Substitutes with District 196.  Please consider signing up at https://www.district196.org/services/human-resources/substitute-teaching .

 

Clerical Subbing covers a wide variety of duties with very flexible hours.  Please consider your availability and if your able to help out.  To attend and an orientation, visit https://www.district196.org/services/human-resources/clerical-substitutes .  All questions can be directed to Barb Hall barb.hall@district196.org .

VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL of STEM
WEEKLY BULLETIN
Wednesday, November 25th – Tuesday, December 1st 2020

 CALENDAR OF COMING EVENTS AT VMS:

Wednesday, November 25^th – Distance Learning Day for all students

Thursday, November 26^th – NO SCHOOL – THANKSGIVING BREAK

Friday, November 27^th – NO SCHOOL – THANKSGIVING BREAK

Monday, November 30^th – Cohort A – Distance Learning

Tuesday, December 1^st – Cohort B – Distance Learning

Wednesday, December 2^nd – Distance Learning Day for all students

Thursday, December 3^rd – Cohort A – Distance Learning

Friday, December 4^th – Cohort B – Distance Learning

                LAST DAY OF TRI 1

 

STAFF AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS: (New announcements are in italic)

From Mrs. Spychalla: Students who contacted Mrs. Spychalla about the geography bee will get the details after Thanksgiving.

 

 

PARENT AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

PARENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Child Care Worker Job Openings

District 196 is seeking applicants to fill vacancies in our tier 1 critical worker child care program. The position is 10am-2pm, Monday through Friday, at various elementary and middle school buildings across District 196. Rate of pay is $17/hr. Please apply online. 

 

From the District Office:

District 196 is in need of both Teacher and Clerical Substitutes.  You can substitute teach with a 4 year degree in District 196 by obtaining a Short Call Substitute License at https://mn.gov/pelsb/ .  Along with that license, you will need to attend an orientation for Short Call Substitutes with District 196.  Please consider signing up at https://www.district196.org/services/human-resources/substitute-teaching .

 

Clerical Subbing covers a wide variety of duties with very flexible hours.  Please consider your availability and if your able to help out.  To attend and an orientation, visit https://www.district196.org/services/human-resources/clerical-substitutes .  All questions can be directed to Barb Hall barb.hall@district196.org .

VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL of STEM
WEEKLY BULLETIN
Wednesday, November 18th – Thursday, November 24th 2020

 CALENDAR OF COMING EVENTS AT VMS:

Wednesday, November 18th – Distance Learning Day for all students

Thursday, November 19^th – Cohort A distance learning

Friday, November 20^th – Cohort B distance learning

Monday, November 23^rd – Cohort A distance learning

Tuesday, November 24^th – Cohort B distance learning

Wednesday, November 25^th – Distance Learning Day for all students

Thursday, November 26^th – NO SCHOOL – THANKSGIVING BREAK

Friday, November 27^th – NO SCHOOL – THANKSGIVING BREAK

 

STAFF AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS: (New announcements are in italic)

From Apple Valley High School: Did you know that Apple Valley has a girls’ gymnastics team!
Dec. 7 is the first day of practice at Eastview High School. Deadline for sign up is the Wednesday before Thanksgiving break. Any questions, call Keni Pittman 612-849-2326 or email at Kendrea.pittman@district196

 

From Mrs. Spychalla: Although the official National Geography Bee is canceled for this year, I have some questions from several years ago. If you would like to participate in an unofficial geography bee zoom session, please email mary.spychalla@district196.org by Tuesday, November 24 with your name and grade.

Students who are interested in space travel - SpaceX launched four astronauts to the International Space Station earlier this week. Want to learn more? Check out SpaceX, International Space Station, NASA, Elon Musk (founder of SpaceX), and Kennedy Space Center.

 

From Mr. Spiegelberg:  Have you heard about the VMSS MATH TEAM?  We have a Zoom every Wednesday at 1:00PM where we hang out and do some fun and challenging math.  All are welcome.  Please email Mr. Spiegelberg for more info!  Len.spiegelberg@district196.org

 

PARENT AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

From Mrs. Martin: Dear Parents and Families:

The Scholastic Book Fair is back! While the Fair will be exclusively held online this year, we still plan on making it a fun experience for our students. Features include:

·          Valley Middle School of STEM’s own online store, with a large selection of titles, at the right price points

·          A Virtual Fair so you and your kids can experience the magic of the school shopping experience. Browse titles by grade, meet popular authors, and discover the comfort and joy of our Fair

·          Every dollar you spend will benefit our school directly (25% back in rewards!)

Save these dates and view our school’s Fair site: Fair Dates: Monday, November 16th – Sunday, November 29th

Online Store: https://www.scholastic.com/bf/valleymiddleschool

 

We can’t wait to “see” you at the Fair!

 

PARENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Child Care Worker Job Openings

District 196 is seeking applicants to fill vacancies in our tier 1 critical worker child care program. The position is 10am-2pm, Monday through Friday, at various elementary and middle school buildings across District 196. Rate of pay is $17/hr. Please apply online. 

 

From the District Office:

District 196 is in need of both Teacher and Clerical Substitutes.  You can substitute teach with a 4 year degree in District 196 by obtaining a Short Call Substitute License at https://mn.gov/pelsb/ .  Along with that license, you will need to attend an orientation for Short Call Substitutes with District 196.  Please consider signing up at https://www.district196.org/services/human-resources/substitute-teaching .

 

Clerical Subbing covers a wide variety of duties with very flexible hours.  Please consider your availability and if your able to help out.  To attend and an orientation, visit https://www.district196.org/services/human-resources/clerical-substitutes .  All questions can be directed to Barb Hall barb.hall@district196.org .

VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL of STEM
WEEKLY BULLETIN
Wednesday, November 11th – Thursday, November 17th 2020

CALENDAR OF COMING EVENTS AT VMS:

Wednesday, November 11th – Distance Learning Day for all students

Thursday, November 12^th – Cohort A distance learning

Friday, November 13^th – Cohort B distance learning

Monday, November 16^th – Cohort A distance learning

Tuesday, November 17^th – Cohort B distance learning

WINTER I SPORTS HAVE BEEN CANCELED.

 

STAFF AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS: (New announcements are in italic)

From Mr. Spiegelberg:  Have you heard about the VMSS MATH TEAM?  We have a Zoom every Wednesday at 1:00PM where we hang out and do some fun and challenging math.  All are welcome.  Please email Mr. Spiegelberg for more info!  Len.spiegelberg@district196.org

 

From Mrs. Spychalla:

1. Reminder: 6^th GT zoom meeting is Wednesday, November 11 at either 10:00 or 1:00. I messaged you the link earlier in the week.
2. Students who are in virtual trips of STEMLink, the Creatives or Young Authors – check your November calendar to see days and times of the LIVE presentations. All LIVE events will be recorded and posted so if you are unable to view them LIVE, you can check them out later.
3. All students may still register for STEMLink, the Creatives, or Young Authors through MyPaymentsPlus on the FAMILIES page of the school website.
4. Stock Market Game 7^th and 8^th grade teams are busy trading. I send the captains of teams articles from the national Stock Market Game. Please share with your team.  

 

From Mr. Podmers: Attention: 6th Grade Science Students 

There is an opportunity for you to continue to use the Fab Lab, during distance learning, for the remainder of the 1st trimester. 

 

SIGN UP WILL BE DONE VIA THIS LINK (Please COPY and PASTE the link below in a web browser):  

http://public.district196.org/vms2/students/student_admin/FAB_LAB_ExtDay/

 

Schedule

Starts on November. 12th, Ends on December 4th

 

Students will attend on OPPOSITE days they have classes (for example: Cohort A students have classes on Mondays and Thursdays, so they would attend Fab Lab on Tuesdays and Fridays).

 

Mondays and Thursdays:  COHORT B students ONLY (need to find own transportation) 10am – 2pm

Tuesdays and Fridays:  COHORT A students ONLY (need to find own transportation) 10am – 2 pm

Wednesdays:  COHORT A or B students who need transportation (12:00 to 1:55 pm) Lunch is available on Wednesdays.

 

Students who will need transportation to and from school will need to choose Wednesdays only.  Wednesday students will arrive at 12 noon, and leave at 1:55 pm.  Lunch is provided.  In order to insure transportation, students need to register by 2 pm on Monday.

 

If transportation is needed, I will make sure it is set-up and I will let you know via email/Schoology when and where you will be picked up. FOR WEDNESDAY ONLY.

 

There is only room for 10 students max on each day, so students will be chosen by the first 10 forms submitted for each day.  There is a waiting list too.

 

From Mrs. Mills: Get your iPad Ready for Distance Learning!

-Make sure the iPad is charged every night so it is ready for to be on Zoom each day

-Update the iPad to OS 14.2

-Reinstall apps from Self-Service

 

VMSSiPadCriticalUpdates

 

District 196 Restart2020-21 webpage https://www.district196.org/about/restart2020

 

Technical Assistance Form     https://www.district196.org/techhelp

• • Schoology/Seesaw Issues
  • Asistencia en español.
  • Caawinta Afka ee Af-soomaaliga

 

 

PARENT AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

From Mrs. Martin: Dear Parents and Families:

The Scholastic Book Fair is back! While the Fair will be exclusively held online this year, we still plan on making it a fun experience for our students. Features include:

·          Valley Middle School of STEM’s own online store, with a large selection of titles, at the right price points

·          A Virtual Fair so you and your kids can experience the magic of the school shopping experience. Browse titles by grade, meet popular authors, and discover the comfort and joy of our Fair

·          Every dollar you spend will benefit our school directly (25% back in rewards!)

Save these dates and view our school’s Fair site:

Fair Dates: Monday, November 16th – Sunday, November 29th

Online Store: https://www.scholastic.com/bf/valleymiddleschool

 

We can’t wait to “see” you at the Fair!

 

PARENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Child Care Worker Job Openings

District 196 is seeking applicants to fill vacancies in our tier 1 critical worker child care program. The position is 10am-2pm, Monday through Friday, at various elementary and middle school buildings across District 196. Rate of pay is $17/hr. Please apply online. 

 

From the District Office:

District 196 is in need of both Teacher and Clerical Substitutes.  You can substitute teach with a 4 year degree in District 196 by obtaining a Short Call Substitute License at https://mn.gov/pelsb/ .  Along with that license, you will need to attend an orientation for Short Call Substitutes with District 196.  Please consider signing up at https://www.district196.org/services/human-resources/substitute-teaching .

 

Clerical Subbing covers a wide variety of duties with very flexible hours.  Please consider your availability and if your able to help out.  To attend and an orientation, visit https://www.district196.org/services/human-resources/clerical-substitutes .  All questions can be directed to Barb Hall barb.hall@district196.org .

 

Your child may be eligible for free or reduced-price school meals

District 196 provides healthy meals each day for all students. And your family may qualify for free or reduced-priced school meals. If you participated in this program last school year and wish to participate again this year, you must submit a new application each year. 

 

Federal funds and school-related fees are determined with this information. The failure to complete the application could result in the loss of millions of dollars to our school system, which would negatively affect teaching and learning in a significant way.

 

All students in our district are currently eligible to receive free breakfast and lunch through the extension of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s free meals program, however this funding is not guaranteed long-term. It is important families who qualify for free or reduced-price meals still apply this year.

 

To apply, click here, or visit https://paypams.com/Applynowisd196 or call 651-683-6958 if you need assistance filling out the application.

VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL of STEM
WEEKLY BULLETIN
Wednesday, November 4th – Thursday, November 12th 2020

CALENDAR OF COMING EVENTS AT VMS:

Wednesday, November 4th – Distance Learning Day for all students

Thursday, November 5^th – Cohort A

Friday, November 6^th – NO SCHOOL Staff Development Day

Monday, November 9^th – NO SCHOOL – for all students Staff Workshop Day

Tuesday, November 10^th – NO SCHOOL – for all students Staff Workshop Day

Wednesday, November 11^th – Distance Learning Day

Thursday, November 12^th – DISTANCE LEARNING FOR ALL STUDENTS until further notice

WINTER I SPORTS HAVE BEEN CANCELED.

 

STAFF AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS: (New announcements are in italic)

 

PARENT AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

From Mr. McKeag: There will be no Winter I Sports at VMSS (Girls Basketball and Wrestling) due to District 196 middle and high schools going to distance learning. If you already signed up and paid the fee, please send Cindy Hanson an e-mail requesting a refund at: cindy.hanson@district196.org Thank you for your understanding

 

From Mrs. Spychalla:

·        Everyone who registered for the Young Authors, Creatives, or STEMLink virtual trips should have received emails from me with a password AND the November calendar. Please let me know how you like the events. Anyone may still register at MyPaymentsPlus which is on the school website under FAMILIES. You can also check out details about the trips at successbeyond.org. Students who register will have access to the virtual trips until the end of May.

·     All 7^th and 8^th grade team CAPTAINS who emailed me about a stock market team should have received their use name and password. You may still register. Questions – contact Mrs. Spychalla.

 

Seventh graders who have received all A and B grades in 6th and 7th grade AND are in financial need may apply for information about a scholarship. Email mary.spychalla@district196.org for more information.

 

From Mrs. Martin: Dear Parents and Families:

The Scholastic Book Fair is back! While the Fair will be exclusively held online this year, we still plan on making it a fun experience for our students. Features include:

·          Valley Middle School of STEM’s own online store, with a large selection of titles, at the right price points

·          A Virtual Fair so you and your kids can experience the magic of the school shopping experience. Browse titles by grade, meet popular authors, and discover the comfort and joy of our Fair

·          Every dollar you spend will benefit our school directly (25% back in rewards!)

Save these dates and view our school’s Fair site:

Fair Dates: Monday, November 16th – Sunday, November 29th

Online Store: https://www.scholastic.com/bf/valleymiddleschool

 

We can’t wait to “see” you at the Fair!

 

PARENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

From the District Office:

District 196 is in need of both Teacher and Clerical Substitutes.  You can substitute teach with a 4 year degree in District 196 by obtaining a Short Call Substitute License at https://mn.gov/pelsb/ .  Along with that license, you will need to attend an orientation for Short Call Substitutes with District 196.  Please consider signing up at https://www.district196.org/services/human-resources/substitute-teaching .

 

Clerical Subbing covers a wide variety of duties with very flexible hours.  Please consider your availability and if your able to help out.  To attend and an orientation, visit https://www.district196.org/services/human-resources/clerical-substitutes .  All questions can be directed to Barb Hall barb.hall@district196.org .

 

Your child may be eligible for free or reduced-price school meals

District 196 provides healthy meals each day for all students. And your family may qualify for free or reduced-priced school meals. If you participated in this program last school year and wish to participate again this year, you must submit a new application each year. 

 

Federal funds and school-related fees are determined with this information. The failure to complete the application could result in the loss of millions of dollars to our school system, which would negatively affect teaching and learning in a significant way.

 

All students in our district are currently eligible to receive free breakfast and lunch through the extension of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s free meals program, however this funding is not guaranteed long-term. It is important families who qualify for free or reduced-price meals still apply this year.

 

To apply, click here, or visit https://paypams.com/Applynowisd196 or call 651-683-6958 if you need assistance filling out the application.

VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL of STEM
WEEKLY BULLETIN
Wednesday, October 28th – Tuesday, November 2^nd 2020

CALENDAR OF COMING EVENTS AT VMS:

Wednesday, October 28^th – Distance Learning Day for all students

• School pictures for Cohort C (Distance Learning) students will be taken
• Winter I sports sign up through MyPaymentsPlus – Wrestling and Girls Basketball

Thursday, October 29^th – Cohort A

• School pictures for Cohort A students will be taken
• Winter I sports sign up through MyPaymentsPlus – Wrestling and Girls Basketball

Friday, October 30^th – Cohort B

• School pictures for Cohort B students will be taken
• Winter I sports sign up through MyPaymentsPlus – Wrestling and Girls Basketball

Monday, November 2^nd – Cohort A

• Winter I sports sign up through MyPaymentsPlus – Wrestling and Girls Basketball

Tuesday, November 3^rd – Cohort B

• Winter I sports sign up through MyPaymentPlus – Wrestling and Girls Basketball

Wednesday, November 3^rd – Distance Learning Day for all students

 

STAFF AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS: (New announcements are in italic)

From Mr. Tidwell: Winter I sports sign up’s are taking place NOW for Wrestling (grades 6,7,&8) and Girls Basketball (grades 7 &8) Students must have a current sports physical on file with the school. Sports Physicals are good for 3 years. Parents/Guardians will need to sign you up on their MyPaymentsPlus account. Winter I sports will begin on Monday, November 9^th and will go through Friday, December 11^th. The cost to participate this year is $50.00.

Students in Cohort A will participate on Mondays and Thursday’s after school. Students in Cohort B will participate on Tuesdays and Friday’s after school. Cohort C students will participate on Mondays and Thursday’s if their last name begins with the letters “A – K”. Cohort C students will participate on Tuesday and Friday’s if their last name begins with the letters “L-Z”.  Any questions please see Mr. Tidwell.

 

From Mr. Adedeji: 1.Girls Basketball begins on Monday, November 9^th. There will be an informational meeting during first advisory on Thursday, 10/29 and Friday, 10/30. Please attend this meeting if you are interested. 

2. We are accepting any new or gently used winter clothing for our ‘Winter Clothing Drive’. All donations will be brought to Dakota Woodlands Homeless shelter in Eagan. We are looking for hats, scarves, gloves/mittens, and coats. The donation box will be in the music area until November 6^th. Please donate  if you can. Thank you!

 

From Mrs. Spychalla:

• If you registered for Young Authors, Creatives, or STEMLink virtual trips by October 18, you should have received an email with a password from me. Please let me know how you like the events. If you registered AFTER October 18, you will get your password from me within a few weeks. You may still register at MyPaymentsPlus which is on the school website under FAMILIES. You can also check out details about the trips at successbeyond.org. Students who register will have access to the trips until the end of May.

• Many 7^th and 8^th graders have emailed me about the yearlong Stock Market Game. If your team captain contacted me by October 20, you should have received the team’s user name and password from me. Please check in with me at mary.spychalla@district196.org if you did not get the information yet. If your captain contacted me AFTER October 20, I have asked for your team’s information; when I receive it, I will forward it to the captain. You may still register. Questions – contact Mrs. Spychalla.
• Students who submitted a VFW essay – I have sent the essays and student entry forms to the Rosemount VFW Post. They will read and evaluate the essays. We usually hear in mid-winter about the recognition ceremony.

 

From Mr. Spiegelberg: Math Team is back for 2020!  Do you want a little more math in your week?  Do you want to hang out (virtually) with other students who love math as much as you do?  Do you want to complete (virtually) against students from the other Dist196 middle schools?  The math team is for you!!!

 

We will have our first meeting via Zoom Wednesday, Oct 28^th, at 1:00PM.  (that’s today!).  If you have more questions or you can’t make the meeting or you missed it, please email Mr. Spiegelberg:  len.spiegelberg@district196.org

 

Zoom link and info:

Wed, Oct. 27, 1:00PM

https://zoom.us/j/94809785110?pwd=OEwwVnpRTWpXL2NyeFlta0dvTUVIZz09

Meeting ID: 948 0978 5110
Passcode: 0GsRxH

 

PARENT AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

From Mrs. Martin: Dear Parents and Families:

The Scholastic Book Fair is back! While the Fair will be exclusively held online this year, we still plan on making it a fun experience for our students. Features include:

·          Valley Middle School of STEM’s own online store, with a large selection of titles, at the right price points

·          A Virtual Fair so you and your kids can experience the magic of the school shopping experience. Browse titles by grade, meet popular authors, and discover the comfort and joy of our Fair

·          Every dollar you spend will benefit our school directly (25% back in rewards!)

Save these dates and view our school’s Fair site:

Fair Dates: Monday, November 16th – Sunday, November 29th

Online Store: https://www.scholastic.com/bf/valleymiddleschool

 

We can’t wait to “see” you at the Fair!

 

PARENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

From the District Office:

District 196 is in need of both Teacher and Clerical Substitutes.  You can substitute teach with a 4 year degree in District 196 by obtaining a Short Call Substitute License at https://mn.gov/pelsb/ .  Along with that license, you will need to attend an orientation for Short Call Substitutes with District 196.  Please consider signing up at https://www.district196.org/services/human-resources/substitute-teaching .

 

Clerical Subbing covers a wide variety of duties with very flexible hours.  Please consider your availability and if your able to help out.  To attend and an orientation, visit https://www.district196.org/services/human-resources/clerical-substitutes .  All questions can be directed to Barb Hall barb.hall@district196.org .

 

Your child may be eligible for free or reduced-price school meals

District 196 provides healthy meals each day for all students. And your family may qualify for free or reduced-priced school meals. If you participated in this program last school year and wish to participate again this year, you must submit a new application each year. 

 

Federal funds and school-related fees are determined with this information. The failure to complete the application could result in the loss of millions of dollars to our school system, which would negatively affect teaching and learning in a significant way.

 

All students in our district are currently eligible to receive free breakfast and lunch through the extension of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s free meals program, however this funding is not guaranteed long-term. It is important families who qualify for free or reduced-price meals still apply this year.

 

To apply, click here, or visit https://paypams.com/Applynowisd196 or call 651-683-6958 if you need assistance filling out the application.

VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL of STEM
WEEKLY BULLETIN
Wednesday, October 21^st – Tuesday, October 27^th, 2020

 

CALENDAR OF COMING EVENTS AT VMS:

Wednesday, October 21^st – Distance Learning Day for all students

Thursday, October 22nd – Cohort A

Friday, October 23^rd – Cohort B

Monday, October 26^th – Cohort A

Tuesday, October 27^th – Cohort B

Wednesday, October 28^th – Distance Learning Day for all students

 

STAFF AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS: (New announcements are in italic)

From the District 196 Nordic Ski Team:

SNOW!  It must be getting close to the start of the Nordic Ski season! Our 2020-21 season is scheduled to begin November 30.

 

Visit https://isd196nordic.shutterfly.com/ if you're interested in a fun and safe sport this winter. Follow instructions on the website to join or for additional information simply email us at isd196nordicskiteam@gmail.com. Registration is also live at MyPaymentsPlus.

 

All skiers and at least one parent must attend the Nordic Ski Information Meeting on Sunday, November 1 via ZOOM. Please join us for updated information even if you haven't fully committed to joining (registration through MyPaymentsPlus required by the first day of practice). Email invites for attendance will be sent after completing the Team Enrollment Form on the website. New skiers will be asked to join from 6:30-7:30 and returning skiers from 7:30-8:30 p.m. 

 

If you have a conflict and are unable to attend, please contact Coach Abery at abery001@umn.edu

 

From Mrs. Spychalla:

• To: Students who registered for a virtual field trip – Young Authors, STEMLink, or Creatives – your payment will be sent to the organization that provides the yearlong events. When I receive information about how you can access the site(s), I will email you and your parents. Students who  missed the deadline, can still register on MyPaymentsPlus which is on the school website under FAMILIES. However, you will not get information about the trips as quickly as those who have already registered. Check the website successbeyond/org for more information.

Questions? Email Mrs. Spychalla at mary.spychalla@district196org

• To 7^th and 8^th graders: The yearlong version of the Stock Market game has started. This year teams can be from ONE to FIVE members. There is NO cost. Students can still register. If you would like to play, please email Mrs. Spychalla with the names of students on your team and which student is captain. If you have already contacted Mrs. Spychalla, the captain should have already received your team’s user name and password. Stock Market game for 6^th graders will start in January.
• Students who submitted a VFW essay to Mrs. Spychalla received an email saying their essay has been received and has been sent to the Rosemount Post. The VFW judges will read and score each essay. Mrs. Spychalla will contact you when the judges are finished – probably in early winter. Questions? Email mary.spychalla@district196.org

PARENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Your child may be eligible for free or reduced-price school meals

District 196 provides healthy meals each day for all students. And your family may qualify for free or reduced-priced school meals. If you participated in this program last school year and wish to participate again this year, you must submit a new application each year. 

 

Federal funds and school-related fees are determined with this information. The failure to complete the application could result in the loss of millions of dollars to our school system, which would negatively affect teaching and learning in a significant way.

 

All students in our district are currently eligible to receive free breakfast and lunch through the extension of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s free meals program, however this funding is not guaranteed long-term. It is important families who qualify for free or reduced-price meals still apply this year.

 

To apply, click here, or visit https://paypams.com/Applynowisd196 or call 651-683-6958 if you need assistance filling out the application.

VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL of STEM
WEEKLY BULLETIN
Wednesday, October 14th – Tuesday, October 20th, 2020

CALENDAR OF COMING EVENTS AT VMS:

Wednesday, October 14^th – Distance Learning Day for all students

Thursday, October 15^th – NO SCHOOL – MEA TEACHER CONVENTION

Friday, October 16^th – NO SCHOOL – MEA TEACHER CONVENTION

Monday, October 19^th – Cohort A

Tuesday, October 20^th – Cohort B

Wednesday, October 21^st – Distance Learning Day for all students

Thursday, October 22nd – Cohort A

Friday, October 23^rd – Cohort B

 

STAFF AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS: (New announcements are in italic)

From Mrs. Spychalla:

• Reminder that the Young Authors, STEMLink, and The Creatives virtual field trips are for ALL students. Registration is through October 18. Parents should register on MyPaymentsPlus which is on the school website under FAMILIES. The cost for each trip is less than the one day trip of previous years. Do not register elsewhere because the cost is higher. Valley students get a discount. The sites are available all year, are secure and are updated frequently.

Questions? Email Mrs. Spychalla at mary.spychalla@district196org

• To 7^th and 8^th graders: The yearlong version of the Stock Market game has started. This year teams can be from ONE to FIVE members. There is NO cost. Students can still register. If you would like to play, please email Mrs. Spychalla with the names of students on your team and which student is captain. If you have already contacted Mrs. Spychalla, the captain should have already received your team’s user name and password. Stock Market game for 6^th graders will start in January.
• Students who submitted a VFW essay to Mrs. Spychalla received an email saying their essay has been received and has been sent to the Rosemount Post. The VFW judges will read and score each essay. Mrs. Spychalla will contact you when the judges are finished – probably in early winter. Questions? Email mary.spychalla@district196.org

PARENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Your child may be eligible for free or reduced-price school meals

District 196 provides healthy meals each day for all students. And your family may qualify for free or reduced-priced school meals. If you participated in this program last school year and wish to participate again this year, you must submit a new application each year. 

Federal funds and school-related fees are determined with this information. The failure to complete the application could result in the loss of millions of dollars to our school system, which would negatively affect teaching and learning in a significant way.

All students in our district are currently eligible to receive free breakfast and lunch through the extension of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s free meals program, however this funding is not guaranteed long-term. It is important families who qualify for free or reduced-price meals still apply this year.

To apply, click here, or visit https://paypams.com/Applynowisd196 or call 651-683-6958 if you need assistance filling out the application.

VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL of STEM
WEEKLY BULLETIN
Wednesday, October 7th – Tuesday, October 13th, 2020

 

CALENDAR OF COMING EVENTS AT VMS:

Wednesday, October 7^th – NO SCHOOL – STAFF DEVELOPMENT DAY

Thursday, October 8^th – Cohort A

Friday, October 9^th – Cohort B

Monday, October 12^th – Cohort A

Tuesday, October 13^th – Cohort B

Wednesday, October 14^th – Distance Learning Day for all students

Thursday, October 15^th – NO SCHOOL – MEA TEACHER CONVENTION

Friday, October 16^th – NO SCHOOL – MEA TEACHER CONVENTION

 

STAFF AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS: (New announcements are in italic)

From VMSS Cultural Family Advocates:

The Families of The Woods Apartments. We’re coming out to you on Wednesday, October 7^th from 1-3pm. We’re setting up at the Gazebo area to answer any questions you may have about school work, technology or connection issues. We will also have resources available to you so please join us. Interpreters will be provided.

 

Qoysaska degan Wood Apartments. Waanu idinku soo soconaa maalinta Arbacada,October 7 marka laga bilaabo 1 ilaa 3 galabnimo. Waxaanu ka sameyneynaa Gazebo agagaarkiisa  meel aad ka heli karto jawaab iyo sualaalo wixii aad qabto ee ku saabsan dugsigan,tiknolijiyadiisa ama xidhiidhkiisa. Waxa kale oo aad ka heli karta wixii agab ah ee la heli karo fadlan nagala soo qayb gal. Turjubaano ayaa ku jooga.

 

A las familias que viven en The Woods Apartments. Personal de la escuela estaremos el Miércoles 7 de Octubre de 1 a 3 p.m. en el gazebo de ahí de sus apartamentos. Vamos a apoyar a sus hijos en  cualquier pregunta que puedan tener sobre el trabajo escolar, la tecnología o problemas de conexión. También tendremos información de recursos ¡Venga a vernos! Habrá intérpretes disponibles.

 

From Mrs. Spychalla:

• Three virtual field trips are available online this year: Young Authors, STEMLink, and The Creatives. Registration is open now and goes through October 18. Parents need to register on MyPaymentsPlus which is on the school website under FAMILIES. The cost for each trip is less than the one day trip of previous years. The site is available all year and is updated frequently. Check out the FREE links until October 8 when they will disappear.

Young Authors Conference: https://successbeyond.org/programs/yac/virtual-yac/

The Creatives: https://successbeyond.org/programs/creatives/

STEMLink: https://successbeyond.org/programs/stemlink/

Questions? Email Mrs. Spychalla at mary.spychalla@district196org

• The National Geography Bee will be cancelled this year due to COVID. In previous years, all Valley students participated in the first round of the competition in their social studies classes. Last year several 7^th graders advanced to the semi-final round. We had wondered if one of them would be the school champion and take the qualifying test to see if the school winner would advance to the state. The national bee hopes to resume the competition in 2021. Contact Mrs. Spychalla with questions.

• To 7^th and 8^th graders: The yearlong version of the Stock Market game has started. This year teams can be from ONE to FIVE members. In other years, at least two students needed to be on each team. There is NO cost this year. Students can still register. If you would like to play, please email Mrs. Spychalla with the names of students on your team and which student is captain. If you have already contacted Mrs. Spychalla, your teams have been turned in and the captain should get your user name and password within a week.

VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL of STEM
WEEKLY BULLETIN
Wednesday, September 30th – Tuesday, October 6th, 2020

CALENDAR OF COMING EVENTS AT VMS:

Wednesday, September 30^th – Distance Learning Day – NO AFTER SCHOOL SPORTS

Thursday, October 1^st – Cohort A

Friday, October 2^nd – Cohort B

Monday, October 5^th – Cohort A

Tuesday, October 6^th – Cohort B

Wednesday, October 7^th – NO SCHOOL – STAFF DEVELOPMENT DAY

Thursday, October 8^th – Cohort A

Friday, October 9^th – Cohort B

 

STAFF AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS: (New announcements are in italic)

From Mrs. Spychalla: 1. Aviation Day – this year the event is online and open to all middle school students – not just girls. It will be held on Saturday, September 26^th. Register at: wai.org before Saturday.

2. Hey Everyone – Math Club is open to all students. Mr. Spiegelberg is the coach. Check in with him for the details.

3. Calling all 7th and 8th graders - the yearlong stock market game will begin within a couple weeks. Teams will consist of two to five students and you will participate online this year. I will post information to 7th and 8th graders on Schoology by the end of the month.  Sixth graders will be able to do the winter/spring competition beginning in January.

4. Great news! The Young Authors Conference and StemLink field trips are being offered virtually this year. Registration details are being finalized. Contact Mrs. Spychalla now for more information.

Virtual Field Trip Opportunities 2020-21

Valley Middle School is offering three virtual field trips to all students through Success Beyond the Classroom, a non-profit organization that partners with schools and the community to bring enrichment opportunities to students. They have redesigned their traditional field trip programming into safe, virtual environments. In the past, we offered field trips to the Young Authors Conference, STEMLink and Creative Con. 

Unlike the one-day field trip experiences in the past, the newly formatted virtual field trips span the entire school year! We are excited for our families to learn more about these enrichments.

Success Beyond the Classroom is offering a FREE “Sneak Peek” for families and teachers from October 1^st-8th. During this time you may access the links below to become familiar with the virtual field trips. 

• Click to learn more about Virtual Young Authors Conference: https://successbeyond.org/virtual-yac-october/

• Click to learn more about Virtual STEMLink: https://successbeyond.org/virtual-stemlink-october/

• Click to learn more about Virtual The Creatives: https://successbeyond.org/virtual-creatives-october/

How to Register for a Virtual Field Trip:

• Registration is open from October 6 – 18
• Use “My Payments Plus Account” -  On Valley’s website, click on FAMILIES, then MyPaymentsPlus. Parents need to register for each trip separately.
• The cost of each field trip is $30 for the entire school year’s programming
• Passcodes to begin the Field Trip experience will be emailed to families after registration closes and Success Beyond the Classroom receives payment from the district.  (Estimated time: end of October)

Questions about the trips: Email Gifted and Talented Coordinator, Mary Spychalla at mary.spychalla@district196.org

 

Community Education:

Chess!

Learn the game played by kings, queens, presidents, and laureates for centuries. Chess benefits focus, sportsmanship, problem solving, mental fortitude, and more. 

Chess for Beginners 1.0 - Online (grades K-5)

Wed | Sep 23 - Oct 14 | 4:15 - 5:15 p.m. | 4 sessions | $52 | Live Online

Thu | Sep 24 - Oct 15 | 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. | 4 sessions | $52 | Live Online

Chess for Beginners 2.0 - Online (grades K-5)

Thu | Sep 24 - Oct 15 | 4:15 - 5:15 p.m. | 4 sessions | $52 | Live Online

Chess Intermediate & Advanced 3.0 - Online (grades K-5)

Thu | Sep 24 - Oct 15 | 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. | 4 sessions | $52 | Live Online

Chess Advanced 4.0 - Online (grades K-5)

Wed | Sep 23 - Oct 14 | 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. | 4 sessions | $52 | Live Online

Thu | Sep 24 - Oct 22 | 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. | 4 sessions | $52 | Skip Oct 1 | Live Online

 

Extreme Coding: AR & Augmented Reality (grades 4-7)

Sun | Sep 27 | 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. | $39 | Live Online

 

Coding Club - Level 1 Online (grades 2-4)

Wed | Sep 23 - Oct 28 | 4:45 - 5:25 p.m. | 6 sessions | $89 | Live Online

Also available on Thursdays and Saturdays

 

Hablemos Espanol-University Language Center Spanish-Online! (grades K-8)

Please register by September, 28.  

Grades K-1

Mon & Thu | Oct 5 - May 20 | 11:00 am - 11:25 a.m. | 4 payments of $181.25 | Skip Nov 26, Dec 24, Dec 28, Dec 31, Mar 22 & Mar 25 | Online

Mon & Thu | Oct 5 - May 20 | 11:30 am - 11:55 a.m. | 4 payments of $181.25 | Skip Nov 26, Dec 24, Dec 28, Dec 31, Mar 22 & Mar 25 | Online

Tue & Fri | Oct 6 - May 21 | 11:00 am - 11:25 a.m. | 4 payments of $181.25 | Skip Nov 27, Dec 25, Dec 29, Jan 1, Mar 23 & Mar 26 | Online

Tue & Fri | Oct 6 - May 21 | 11:30 am - 11:55 a.m. | 4 payments of $181.25 | Skip Nov 27, Dec 25, Dec 29, Jan 1, Mar 23 & Mar 26 | Online

 

Grades 2-3

Mon & Thu | Oct 5 - May 20 | 11:30 am - 11:55 a.m. | 4 payments of $181.25 | Skip Nov 26, Dec 24, Dec 28, Dec 31, Mar 22 & Mar 25 | Online

Tue & Fri | Oct 6 - May 21 | 11:30 am - 11:55 a.m. | 4 payments of $181.25 | Skip Nov 27, Dec 25, Dec 29, Jan 1, Mar 23 & Mar 26 | Online

 

 

Grades 4-6

Mon & Thu | Oct 5 - May 20 | noon-12:25 p.m. | 4 payments of $181.25 | Skip Nov 26, Dec 24, Dec 28, Dec 31, Mar 22 & Mar 25 | Online

Tue & Fri | Oct 6 - May 21 | noon-12:25 p.m. | 4 payments of $181.25 | Skip Nov 27, Dec 25, Dec 29, Jan 1, Mar 23 & Mar 26 | Online

Grades 6-8

Mon & Wed | Oct 5 - May 19 | 4:30-5:15 p.m. | 4 payments of $181.25 | Skip Dec 28, Dec 30, Mar 22 & Mar 24 | Online

 

Connect & Share: Virtual Visit Sheltering Seniors

Become a virtual visitor! Connect with a senior citizen and brighten someone's day. Reach out with a smiling face and a listening ear. Help keep our older adults connected to community while social distancing is in effect. From the comfort of your home, you can connect with others and enhance their lives. Visits on the Zoom platform of 20 minutes may be scheduled by you, weekday daytimes, some evenings and some weekends. Pick a time that is convenient for you! Register now to receive an email from a senior living facility with a link and instructions to schedule your virtual visits. Just chat, read a book or a poem, play an instrument, sing, talk sports, share your pet or anything else you have in mind to share. Free!

 

A warm smile is the universal language of kindness. -William Arthur Ward

 

Swim Lessons

Learn to swim in District 196 Community Swim Lessons. Our caring and dedicated instructors are Red Cross-trained to help you and/or child enjoy developing swimming and water safety skills in our positive learning environment. A parent or household member who is at least 15 years old must be in the water with all Preschool and Levels 1, 2 and 3 lessons. Fall sessions are on weekday evenings, Saturday mornings and early afternoons also Sunday afternoons and evenings beginning October 7 at our middle school pools. Visit ce.district196.org/swim for more information and to register.

VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL of STEM
WEEKLY BULLETIN
Wednesday, September 23rd – Tuesday, September 29th, 2020

This year we will only be sending out a “Weekly Bulletin” on Wednesday’s.

CALENDAR OF COMING EVENTS AT VMS:

Wednesday, September 23^rd – Distance Learning Day – NO AFTER SCHOOL SPORTS

Thursday, September 24^th – Cohort A

Friday, September 25^th – Cohort B

Monday, September 28^th – Cohort A

Tuesday, September 29^th – Cohort B

Wednesday, September 30^th – Distance Learning Day – NO AFTER SCHOOL SPORTS

Thursday, October 1^st – Cohort A

Friday, October 2^nd – Cohort B

 

STAFF AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS: (New announcements are in italic)

From Mrs. Spychalla: 1. Aviation Day – this year the event is online and open to all middle school students – not just girls. It will be held on Saturday, September 26^th. Register at: wai.org before Saturday.

2. Hey Everyone – Math Club is open to all students. Mr. Spiegelberg is the coach. Check in with him for the details.

3. Calling all 7th and 8th graders - the yearlong stock market game will begin within a couple weeks. Teams will consist of two to five students and you will participate online this year. I will post information to 7th and 8th graders on Schoology by the end of the month.  Sixth graders will be able to do the winter/spring competition beginning in January.

 

From Mr. Vaillancourt: Now is the time to sign up for Cross Country, Soccer, and (Girls) Tennis.  No experience necessary to play.  For the first time in 8 years we have activity busses to get you home (VMSS attendance area).  No more excuses, let’s get outside and play!  If you are having trouble signing up, ask a coach for help, we would love to have you on our team; Coach Pelinka, Coach Cross, Coach Scott, Coach Adedeji, and Coach Vaillancourt.  Cohort A and C with last names A through K practice on Monday and Thursday and Cohort B and all others practice on Tuesday and Friday.  Have your parents or guardian sign you up on www.mypaymentsplus.com today!

 

From the Administration:  1. VMSS has bike racks for student use.  Students should park and lock bikes only on bike racks on the east side of the building close to the drop off/pick up lanes in the main parking lot. Please do not chain your bike to trees or lamp posts.  Thank you.

 

2. All students, if you forgot something at home, please pick it up in the main office between classes or during the noontime.  Please ask an adult if you are not sure where the office is. We will not page students for the purpose of picking up forgotten items.  IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to come and check.

 

Community Education:

Chess!

Learn the game played by kings, queens, presidents, and laureates for centuries. Chess benefits focus, sportsmanship, problem solving, mental fortitude, and more. 

Chess for Beginners 1.0 - Online (grades K-5)

Wed | Sep 23 - Oct 14 | 4:15 - 5:15 p.m. | 4 sessions | $52 | Live Online

Thu | Sep 24 - Oct 15 | 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. | 4 sessions | $52 | Live Online

Chess for Beginners 2.0 - Online (grades K-5)

Thu | Sep 24 - Oct 15 | 4:15 - 5:15 p.m. | 4 sessions | $52 | Live Online

Chess Intermediate & Advanced 3.0 - Online (grades K-5)

Thu | Sep 24 - Oct 15 | 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. | 4 sessions | $52 | Live Online

Chess Advanced 4.0 - Online (grades K-5)

Wed | Sep 23 - Oct 14 | 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. | 4 sessions | $52 | Live Online

Thu | Sep 24 - Oct 22 | 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. | 4 sessions | $52 | Skip Oct 1 | Live Online

 

 

 

Extreme Coding: AR & Augmented Reality (grades 4-7)

Sun | Sep 27 | 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. | $39 | Live Online

 

Coding Club - Level 1 Online (grades 2-4)

Wed | Sep 23 - Oct 28 | 4:45 - 5:25 p.m. | 6 sessions | $89 | Live Online

Also available on Thursdays and Saturdays

 

Hablemos Espanol-University Language Center Spanish-Online! (grades K-8)

Please register by September, 28.  

Grades K-1

Mon & Thu | Oct 5 - May 20 | 11:00 am - 11:25 a.m. | 4 payments of $181.25 | Skip Nov 26, Dec 24, Dec 28, Dec 31, Mar 22 & Mar 25 | Online

Mon & Thu | Oct 5 - May 20 | 11:30 am - 11:55 a.m. | 4 payments of $181.25 | Skip Nov 26, Dec 24, Dec 28, Dec 31, Mar 22 & Mar 25 | Online

Tue & Fri | Oct 6 - May 21 | 11:00 am - 11:25 a.m. | 4 payments of $181.25 | Skip Nov 27, Dec 25, Dec 29, Jan 1, Mar 23 & Mar 26 | Online

Tue & Fri | Oct 6 - May 21 | 11:30 am - 11:55 a.m. | 4 payments of $181.25 | Skip Nov 27, Dec 25, Dec 29, Jan 1, Mar 23 & Mar 26 | Online

 

Grades 2-3

Mon & Thu | Oct 5 - May 20 | 11:30 am - 11:55 a.m. | 4 payments of $181.25 | Skip Nov 26, Dec 24, Dec 28, Dec 31, Mar 22 & Mar 25 | Online

Tue & Fri | Oct 6 - May 21 | 11:30 am - 11:55 a.m. | 4 payments of $181.25 | Skip Nov 27, Dec 25, Dec 29, Jan 1, Mar 23 & Mar 26 | Online

Grades 4-6

Mon & Thu | Oct 5 - May 20 | noon-12:25 p.m. | 4 payments of $181.25 | Skip Nov 26, Dec 24, Dec 28, Dec 31, Mar 22 & Mar 25 | Online

Tue & Fri | Oct 6 - May 21 | noon-12:25 p.m. | 4 payments of $181.25 | Skip Nov 27, Dec 25, Dec 29, Jan 1, Mar 23 & Mar 26 | Online

Grades 6-8

Mon & Wed | Oct 5 - May 19 | 4:30-5:15 p.m. | 4 payments of $181.25 | Skip Dec 28, Dec 30, Mar 22 & Mar 24 | Online

 

Connect & Share: Virtual Visit Sheltering Seniors

Become a virtual visitor! Connect with a senior citizen and brighten someone's day. Reach out with a smiling face and a listening ear. Help keep our older adults connected to community while social distancing is in effect. From the comfort of your home, you can connect with others and enhance their lives. Visits on the Zoom platform of 20 minutes may be scheduled by you, weekday daytimes, some evenings and some weekends. Pick a time that is convenient for you! Register now to receive an email from a senior living facility with a link and instructions to schedule your virtual visits. Just chat, read a book or a poem, play an instrument, sing, talk sports, share your pet or anything else you have in mind to share. Free!

 

A warm smile is the universal language of kindness. -William Arthur Ward

 

Swim Lessons

Learn to swim in District 196 Community Swim Lessons. Our caring and dedicated instructors are Red Cross-trained to help you and/or child enjoy developing swimming and water safety skills in our positive learning environment. A parent or household member who is at least 15 years old must be in the water with all Preschool and Levels 1, 2 and 3 lessons. Fall sessions are on weekday evenings, Saturday mornings and early afternoons also Sunday afternoons and evenings beginning October 7 at our middle school pools. Visit ce.district196.org/swim for more information and to register.

VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL of STEM
WEEKLY BULLETIN
Wednesday, September 16^th – Tuesday, September 22^nd, 2020

WELCOME BACK EVERYONE!

This year we will only be sending out a “Weekly Bulletin” on Wednesday’s.

 

CALENDAR OF COMING EVENTS AT VMS:

Wednesday, September 16^th – Distance Learning Day

Fall Sports Registration – on-line MyPaymentPlus see list below for what sports are available

Thursday, September 17^th – Cohort A reports to school

Fall Sports Registration – on-line MyPaymentPlus see list below for what sports are available

Friday, September 18^th – Cohort B reports to school

Fall Sports Registration – on-line MyPaymentPlus see list below for what sports are available

Monday, September 21^st – Cohort A

Fall Sports Begin

Fall Sports Registration – online MyPaymentPlus

Tuesday, September 22^nd – Cohort B

Fall Sports Registration – on-line MyPaymentPlus

Wednesday, September 23^rd – Distance Learning Day – NO AFTER SCHOOL SPORTS

Thursday, September 24^th – Cohort A

Friday, September 25^th – Cohort B

 

STAFF AND STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

STUDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS: (New announcements are in italic)

From the Administration:  1. VMSS has bike racks for student use.  Students should park and lock bikes only on bike racks on the east side of the building close to the drop off/pick up lanes in the main parking lot. Please do not chain your bike to trees or lamp posts.  Thank you.

 

2. All students, if you forgot something at home, please pick it up in the main office between classes or during the noontime.  Please ask an adult if you are not sure where the office is. We will not page students for the purpose of picking up forgotten items.  IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to come and check.

 

From Mr. Tidwell: Registration is open now through September 25^th for students wanting to participate in fall sports. Registration and payment are processed through MyPaymentPlus (link on VMSS web site under “Families” tab). Participants need to have a completed physical on file before they can be registered. Sports will start on Monday, September 21^st. See our Athletic Director, Mr. Tidwell, if you have any questions. Fall sports available are:

7^th & 8^th Grade Boys and Girls Soccer

6^th, 7^th, & 8^th grade Boys and Girls Cross Country

6^th, 7^th, & 8^th grade GIRLS Tennis

 

From Mr. Vaillancourt: Let’s get outside and play! 

Registration for Fall Soccer opens September 8^th for all VMSS student athletes (grades 7 and 8).  This year we will be working on game fundamentals as well as scrimmaging with other VMSS teams.  Students will be practicing in accordance with MN Dept. of Health and District 196 safety policies implemented to reduce the risk to players. 

 

There will be Activity Busses to bring you home at the end of the practice.  Seriously, how cool is that?  Sign up now!  Practice starts September 21^st.

 

Students in Cohort A and those with last names A-K in Cohort C practice Monday and Thursday.  Cohort B and those with last names L-Z will practice on Tuesday and Friday.

 

Sign up using the new payment processing system at: https://www.mypaymentsplus.com/welcome.