WGO - MS Archive: Aug 21

WGO

Issue #2: August 21, 2025

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From the Principal

Mr. Billy Thomas

We are thrilled to have completed our first full week of school, and what an energizing start it has been! Our students are settling into routines, building new friendships, and engaging with their teachers in meaningful learning. The positive energy around campus has been inspiring, and we are so proud of how quickly our middle school community is coming together to launch a successful year.

We would also like to warmly invite you to our Back to School Night on Monday, September 1st at 5pm. This evening will give you the chance to meet teachers, learn more about the Middle School, and connect with other families. Thank you for your support and partnership during these first two weeks—your encouragement makes a world of difference in helping our students thrive. We look forward to seeing you soon!

MS Celebrations

Grade 7 students wrapped up class by practicing their Self-Regulation and Collaboration skills through a team puzzle challenge. Without knowing what the final image would be, they had to rely on careful planning, clear communication, and teamwork to make progress.

The activity required them to remain flexible and adaptable, adjusting strategies as needed to support the group. By the end, students strengthened not only their problem-solving skills but also their ability to work together effectively toward a shared goal. Way to go team!

MS Updates

MIDDLE SCHOOL ACTIVE PARENTING WORKSHOP

Join us starting September 9th at 5:30 PM for a 6 week parenting class. Learn and practice parenting skills relevant to raising tweens/teens like building cooperation, problem support, and when to use different types of consequences.

Additionally, this is a great chance to build some connections with other middle school parents and grow together.

Click here for all the information and to sign up. Space is limited.

MS BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT

You are cordially invited to the Middle School's Back To School Night:

Monday, Sept 1 from 5:00pm - 7:00pm

This is a wonderful opportunity to hear from the Leadership team and to meet all of your child's teachers.

More information will be shared next week.

MAP TESTING

At the end of this month, Middle School students will participate in the NWEA MAP testing.

These tests are designed to provide teachers with an understanding of students' competency levels in:

Reading Comprehension
Language Use
Math

From here, we are able to better differentiate the learning in every classroom to support student growth.

There is very little students can do to prepare for these tests other than:

Action Required: Prepare their laptop BEFORE testing days
Be well rested (MS children require 8-10 hours per night)
Have a good healthy breakfast
Have their laptop fully charged
Be willing to try their best

For more about the MAP assessment, click on NWEA MAP Family Toolkit.

ADVENTURE JORDAN

Preparation has begun for Middle School’s Adventure Jordan trips in October!

Families will receive detailed information about the trips over the next 6 weeks. However, below are some initial details:

Destinations

Grade 6 - visit Ajloun (Oct 8-9)
Grade 7- visit Petra (Oct 7-9)
Grade 8 - visit Wadi Rum (Oct 7-9)

Travel

All groups travel by bus
All trips will depart from school.
All trips will return to campus before the end of the school day on Thursday, Oct 9. Children

WALKING HOME

As our MS families settle into their school routine, we know the majority of children either catch a bus or car home, however we are aware that some families live very close to school and would like their MS child to walk home.

Action Required: If you are planning for your MS child to walk home, please complete THIS FORM for our records.

Please note, this is NOT an option for ES children.

From the Athletics Office

Fall 2025 Tryouts & Activities Sign-Up

Scorpions, the wait is over! It's time to gear up for the new season!

PowerSchool sign-ups opened on Tuesday, August 12. Sign up early to secure your spot and know your schedule for the season.

Watch THIS VIDEO to understand how to apply through PowerSchool (the video is a HS example but the same process is required for MS).

Activities & Tryouts Coming Up:

Sunday, August 31:

U14 Soccer (Boys & Girls)
U14 Volleyball (Boys & Girls)
Boys Soccer (U18 & U16)
HS/MS Theater Performance

If you missed the tryouts on August 19 but you are still minterested, see Mr. Mo in the Activities Office near the gym.

Full Fall 2025 Tryout Schedule:

Stay in the Loop

All schedules and updates will be posted on the Activities Calendar — your go-to spot for the most current schedules information.

ACS Activities Program: 2025–2026

Curious about what’s happening in student activities this year? From after-school programs to performances and student leadership, the ACS Activities InfoBoard gives you a full overview of what’s planned across all grade levels.
You can also visit the Activities Page on the ACS Activities website, which will always have the most up-to-date details as things evolve. The InfoBoard offers a great starting point, while the website reflects ongoing updates throughout the year.

Let’s make 2025–2026 our best year yet. Bring your energy, your commitment, and your Scorpion pride!