Jaguar Reminders: March 16-29
Success & Nothing Less: Jaguar Excellence!
Hello Jaguar Family!
The Journey Continues......Continuing to celebrate Greatness!
Jaguar Family,
Please click here to view the Principal's Message for the month of March.
Sandtown Family,
I am so appreciative of the parent community and stakeholders for their showing of support, flexibility and dedication to our scholars during this time. The school doors may be closed for a period of time, but learning will continue for our scholars. The district is also offering meals and resources for our scholars. Our team of teachers and staff members are relying on your support to ensure our scholars are engaging in school work each day.
Talk to your scholars about COVID19: Easy Read!
Extended-Digital Learning Plan (TeleSchool)
- Extended Learning will take place each day following the content and course for each day. Teachers are available each day via email and will respond to your email within 24 hours.
- Monday: ELA
- Tuesday: Math
- Wednesday: Connections (A Day and B Day)
- Thursday: Science
- Friday: Social Studies
Proximity and Fulton Virtual
- All virtual learning will continue, as normal. Students who are enrolled in Fulton Virtual are expected to continue accessing their course daily. Students enrolled in Proximity are expected to access the course daily during their normal expected time. If for any reason a scholar is not able to access course, please email our Virtual Learning Assistant, Mecca Coates (CoatesM@fultonschools.org). If administrative support is needed, please email Mrs. Sonya West-Jones (WestS@fultonschools.org)
- Any concerns related to Fulton Virtual School (FVS), please email the FVS teacher directly.
Grades
- Students are expected to complete all assignments. Teachers will submit missing work reports and contact students and parents via email to discuss missing work and recovery. Grades are captured during the extended learning period.
- Please assist the team in reinforcing this period of time is not an extended break or vacation, it is an extended learning period and school is in session, with a unique structure to our learning environment.
Student Email Addresses-vs-Parent Email Addresses (Student Accountability for their work assignments)
Many of our parents have inquired on the best way to ensure our students have direct access to school communications, especially during a time when assignments are pushed out to our students. We are working with our student information team to merge student email addresses. However, all of the information shared comes directly to our parents. We want to ensure you are informed and have the necessary resources to guide our scholars. But, this does not indicate limited accountability for our scholars. We want to develop independent scholars who take ownership for their academic success! Be sure to direct your scholar on how they can access the Jaguar Reminders, which includes the daily lesson plans. Here are a few recommendations:
- Direct your scholar to save the Sandtown Middle School web-page as a favorite on their phone. The Jaguar Reminders are listed at the very bottom of the Sandtown Middle School web-page.
- Forward the weekly text message to your scholar; the link is included in the SMS Text sent weekly. “Jaguar Alerts” are a great way to make sure your scholar has access to the weekly SMORE. (FORWARD the text message)
Within this week's weekly reminders, you will find resources to support our scholars and parents. Please review the reminders very carefully!
Please reference our local school updates listed below, and the FCS website for more information related to COVID 19.
- We ask that our staff and families continue to follow the COVID-19 guidelines as shared by GDPH and the CDC including monitoring you and your child’s health for fever and symptoms of respiratory illness including a runny nose, cough and/or shortness of breath. Please call your local health provider for assistance if these symptoms occur.
Fulton County’s Website: https://www.fultonschools.org/coronavirus
Thanks to all, please remember: “You are so awesome! You are so amazing! Your students need you and you are making a difference in their lives. Keep on teaching, teachers! Keep on leading, Leaders! Keep on supporting, Support Staff. Keep on parenting, parents! All, let's keep on making the difference.”
Again, and as always, thank you for all that you do to ensure we are normalizing excellence!
Your Partner,
Our Mission
Success for Every Student!
Our Vision
We will prepare scholars for success by establishing a mutually respectful culture that promotes high expectations, academic achievement, and personal growth. We will develop scholars' self-awareness, creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and leadership skills. We will prepare scholars to leave ready to pursue and succeed on their chosen paths. We will provide our faculty and staff members a special place to pursue the art and science of teaching. We will provide teachers with experiences that deepen their skills and be a place where careers can flourish. We will enhance education by setting an example as an effective, safe and accountable school by constantly investing in ways to become better at our craft. We will share our learning with colleagues in the field of education.
"Success & Nothing Less: Jaguar Excellence!"
Reminder: Write it Down; Save it; Just Don't forget.....
All FCS Schools and District Offices are closed. Stay tuned to the FCS Website for more information. (March 16-Until further notice)
- April 6-10
- April 21
- May 19 (School is in session)
Spring Break-Schools Closed
Digital Learning Day-Students Do Not Report
Opt-In for Digital Learning Day (Vote Submitted)
Digital Learning Day-Students Do Report
Opt-Out for Digital Learning Day (Vote Submitted)
Important Dates:
All FCS Schools and District Offices are closed. Stay tuned to the FCS Website for more information. (March 16-Until further notice)
Monday-Friday, April 6-10
Spring Break Observance-School are closed!
What Happening This Week & Next Week:
Upcoming extramural/performing arts/academic clubs/student clubs
- N/A
Upcoming Events:
- N/A
TeleRemote Learning Highlights: FCS Rising
COVID-19 has created a worldwide challenge; fortunately, the Fulton County Schools community is up for it. There are thousands of inspiring stories being generated during this time of crisis. Teachers, students and families are connecting in many creative ways.
Be sure to send your highlights to Principal Miley and post them to our twitter page @SandtownMS #FCSrising #Jaguarexcellence
Our scholars are doing a great job in a TeleRemote Learning environment and we are super proud. Parents, please showcase their engagement in learning and allow us to shout you out for the great work you are doing!
Send photos and comments to: Sandtownprincipal@fultonschools.org
March 16-22: TeleSchool Extended Learning Plans
March 16
- TeleSchool-Extended Learning: ELA Day
- Complete iReady-ELA Session (30 Minutes)
- Read for 45-60 Minutes
- Amnesty Day (Work on ELA make-up assignments)
March 17
- TeleSchool-Extended Learning: MATH
- Click here to view the math assignments (Math assignments for the week of 03/16 are ready for viewing on 03/17)
- Proximity Learning (Access during your scheduled course time)
- Read for 45-60 Minutes
March 18
- TeleSchool-Extended Learning: CONNECTIONS
- Click here to view the connections assignments (Connections assignments for the week of 03/16 are ready for viewing on 03/17)
- ART Resources-6th
- Art Resources-7th and 8th
- Art Resources-Intro to Art-9th Grade
- Proximity Learning (Access during your scheduled course time)
- Read for 45-60 Minutes
March 19
- TeleSchool-Extended Learning: SCIENCE
- Click here to view the Science assignments (Science assignments for the week of 03/16 are ready for viewing on 03/17)
- Proximity Learning (Access during your scheduled course time)
- Read for 45-60 Minutes
March 20
- TeleSchool-Extended Learning: SOCIAL STUDIES
- Click here to view the Social Studies assignments (Social Studies assignments for the week of 03/16 are ready for viewing on 03/17)
- Proximity Learning (Access during your scheduled course time)
- Read for 45-60 Minutes
March 21-22
- No School Events: All school based events are canceled, until further notice.
March 23-29: TeleSchool Extended Learning Plans
March 23
- TeleSchool-Extended Learning: ELA
- Click here to view the ELA assignments (ELA assignments for the week of 03/23 are ready for viewing on 03/22)
- Proximity Learning (Access during your scheduled course time)
- Complete a session of iReady-ELA
- Read for 45-60 Minutes
March 24
- TEACHER WORKDAY (Reference the FCS Calendar)
- Students will not have any mandated assignments
- Read for 45-60 Minutes
March 25
- TeleSchool-Extended Learning: CONNECTIONS
- Click here to view the Connections assignments (Connection assignments for the week of 03/23 are ready for viewing on 03/22)
- Proximity Learning (Access during your scheduled course time)
- Complete a session of iReady
- Read for 45-60 Minutes
March 26
- TeleSchool-Extended Learning: SCIENCE
- Click here to view the Science assignments (Science assignments for the week of 3/23 are ready for viewing on 03/22)
- Proximity Learning (Access during your scheduled course time)
- Complete a session of iReady-MATH
- Read for 45-60 Minutes
March 27
- TeleSchool-Extended Learning: SOCIAL STUDIES
- Click here to view the Social Studies assignments (Social Studies assignments for the week of 3/23 are ready for viewing on 03/22)
- Proximity Learning (Access during your scheduled course time)
- Complete a session of iReady-ELA
- Read for 45-60 Minutes
March 28-29
- No School Events: All school based events are canceled, until further notice.
- Continue to practice Social Distancing-Stay Safe!
Remote Learning and Technical Help Hotline
Questions and Technical Help Hotline
Beginning Monday, March 16, 2020, a Remote Learning Hotline (470-254-2300) will be live to answer technical assistance questions, such as resetting a password or finding a student ID number. The hotline is open 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. during the regular school week, Monday through Friday. Frequently asked questions are posted to the Remote Learning website: https://www.fultonschools.org/remotelearning
Teachers are working regular school hours from their homes and will be responsive to students’ questions sent by email. Staff email information is posted on every school’s website. Students who do not have access to email should call the Remote Learning Hotline at 470-254-2300.
Meal Distribution:
Effective Monday, March 23, 2020, the FCS Nutrition program will expand its meal distribution from six to 21 sites. Families can pick up meals for all children under the age of 18, or under the age of 21 for youth with special needs. The hours are 11-1. Children must be present in order for meals to be provided. This is a curb side service. Please click to see the updated English or Spanish food distribution site list.
Comcast Essentials
REMINDER about Social Distancing:
REMINDER about Social Distancing:
We also encourage our community to follow CDC guidelines about social distancing.
The CDC and public health officials are continuing to share guidance for the general public to practice “social distancing,” which they have described as “all individuals should limit community movement and adapt to disruptions in routine activities.” The CDC also says, “social distancing means remaining out of congregate settings, avoiding mass gatherings, and maintaining distance (approximately 6 feet or 2 meters) from others when possible.” Please be mindful and take precautions daily. These measures and overall good hygiene practices will help mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 coronavirus.
City of South Fulton: A State of Emergency COVID19
(CITY OF SOUTH FULTON, GA – March 18, 202o) – City of South Fulton Mayor William “Bill” Edwards, with support from the City Council in their Tuesday, March 17 meeting, adopted an emergency resolution declaring a state of emergency in the City of South Fulton in an effort to take proactive measures for the health and safety of residents during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak.
We know this is a stressful time for students, families, and educators. Concerns about the spread of COVID-19 are growing. Our Counselor Connect Team is readily available and equipped with resources to assist our scholars with developing the social-emotional skills they need to get through these challenging events. The Counseling Connect Team is also available to speak with parents and students during their time of need, or just to say "hello". Just click on the title or hyperlink above to schedule an appointment to "chat" with a member of the Counselor Connect Team.
- Community Resources
- Individual Support
- Connecting with a school counselor or someone from the Counseling Connect Team
- Just to say "Hi"
- I am missing school, what can I do to balance my social needs?
- Staying focused!
Grade-Level Happenings! Newsletters
Always Remember: "In the Middle"
Middle school is more than just a grade configuration, Lounsbury explains: "It doesn't matter whether a child is in a K through 8th grade school or a 6th through 8th grade school. It doesn't matter if students wear uniforms, or if boys are taught separately from girls. It's how they're taught that makes the difference." Anyone who has spent more than five minutes in the presence of a "tween" — a term commonly applied to kids falling between the ages of 8 and 13
knows this is true. Middle schoolers are a diverse, unpredictable group. Brazen and cocky one minute, timid and self-doubting the next; bored and self-conscious one day, excited and inquisitive the next — they ride the proverbial rollercoaster of emotions, abilities, and needs.
Congratulations to our Science Fair Participants & Winners:
The following students received top honors at the Regional Fulton County Science & Engineering Fair Awards Ceremony February 29th at North Springs HS:
- Kayla Griffin
- Olivia Turk
- Rayne Randle
Kayla Griffin has been selected to advance to the State Science & Engineering Fair for Georgia! GSEF will be held March 26-28 in Athens, GA.
Congratulations Kayla, Olivia and Rayne! We are so proud of you!
Congratulations to our Social Studies Fair Winners * 1st Place Recipient Kree Willingham!
Thank you to all of our students who were selected to represent Sandtown Middle School at the District Fair on Wednesday, February 05. A special kudos to our Science Fair Department Chair, Mr. Carlton Lapan and our Social Studies Administrator, Mrs. Sonya West-Jones.
All of our scholars represented at the district fair. All of our scholars placed within the 1st-3rd category. Congratulations to Ms. Kree Willingham. She will represent the district in the Regional Social Studies Fair. Kree we are very proud of you!
- Robert Wilson
- Kwasi Gray, Jr.
- Makayla Sellars
- Kaitlyn Levine
- Jori Smith
- Madysen Webb
Congratulations to our Scholars: Above and Beyond!
Congratulations to our Overall Teacher-of-the-Year and Professional-of-the-Year and our Finalists........
- Latoya Baker, 8th Grade Teacher
- Camille Crowder, 8th Grade Teacher
- Jason Reeves, Graduation Coach
- Kenyatta Stacker, Science Coach
- Synthia Slaughter, Paraprofessional
Teacher-of-the-Year: Ms. Latoya Baker, 8th Grade
Professional-of-the-Year: Mr. Jason Reeves, Graduation Coach
Annual Title-I Reminder: FY 20 Parent Family Engagement Plan & School-Family Compact
Greetings Parents, this is just a reminder to return the Signature Page (completed, signed and dated) you received with your School-Family Compact, Parent, Family Engagement Plan and the District Parent, Family Engagement Plan. For your convenience, you may access these documents online with the links below:
FY20 Parent Family Engagment Plan
Title I District Information
Jaguar Excellence: Uniform Policy
- All students are required to wear uniforms to school every day. Uniform points are provided during the homeroom block daily.
- The standard school uniform consists of a polo top and khaki shorts or pants.
- Uniforms are worn on Monday-Thursday.
- To alleviate re-purchasing uniforms each year, we will adhere to the three year uniform trend.
- Sixth Grade: Gray/Khaki
- Seventh Grade: Royal Blue/Khaki
- Eighth Grade: Black /Khaki
- Jeans are allowed to be worn with uniforms (no ripped or frayed jeans)
- Every Friday is Spirit Wear and Free Dress Day *Students are permitted to dress out of uniforms on Friday. All students are expected to adhere to the dress code, which is strictly enforced. (No shredded, ripped or frayed jeans are allowed)
Vendors: Walmart, Old Navy, Brandhouse Ink and 3D Printing and Accessories
*All independent vendors are invited to our Annual Open House.
Game Changer(s): The Building Management Team!
We appreciate Mr. Wade, Mr. Moore and Ms. Williams!
Content Corner: WHAT'S IMPORTANT TO KNOW IN CORE CONTENT
The Standards Mastery Framework (SMF) is a set of tools designed to ensure a guaranteed and viable curriculum and deepen personalization of the learning experience for FCS students.
The tools will include:
Learning Maps consist of
Prioritized standards
Proficiency scales
Evidence blueprints
Assessment items and tasks
Scoring guides and student exemplars
Scales for reporting student success skills
Focus Lessons
Student Support Team: Response to Intervention
Georgia educators are aligning to create a preventive framework to improve performance outcomes of all learners. Georgia's Tiered System of Supports for Students is continued implementation of Georgia's Systems of Continuous Improvement, the statewide plan to provide a tiered system of supports for the districts, schools, and students. The tiered system includes evidence-based interventions and screenings that will provide different levels of support needed to maximize student achievement and reduce behavior problems.
- Weekly Focus: iReady Diagnostic (Grades 6-8)
Connections Corner: News Flash-Orchestra is now accepting new students!
*Connection courses follow pathway selections, students must complete pre-requisitie courses in order to select an advanced course within the connections selections.
- Band
- Orchestra: Orchestra is accepting new students who are interested in learning the Violin, Viola, Cello, or Bass. There is no experience needed. If your scholar is interested, please see Ms. Miller next week.
- Art
- Broadcast/Graph Communications
- Engineering/Tech Systems
- Health
- Physical Education
- Foreign Language: Spanish
Free & Low Cost Resources from First Book Marketplace
First Book is a nonprofit social enterprise that provides new books, educational resources, and other essentials--including coats, snacks, and hygiene kits--to educators serving children in need. First Book provides these resources free or at low cost to schools and programs serving children in need, ages 0-18. Their purpose is to raise the quality of education for all children by making sure they have access to the resources they need to be successful in school and life.
APEC: Before & After Care; Tutoring Assistance
Future Foundations: 21st Century After School Program
If you are interested in securing a spot in the 21st Century: Future Foundations program, please stay tuned in for more information forthcoming very soon. The program will begin in September.
Contact: Future Foundations Main Office
(404) 766-0510 office
(404) 766-0736 fax
Contact: School-Based Leader
Happy Birthday!
Happy Birthday to All of Jaguars: March Birthday's
It is our pleasure to wish you a very happy birthday. We wish you many more to come!
The Jaguar Family!
Student begin the instructional day at 8:55; all students arriving after 8:55 a.m. are marked tardy. Please arrive on time and ready to learn! Jaguar Excellence requires an intentional effort!