Categories
Parent Square

Stop Signs, Dress Code, Tardies, & Counseling Updates

Spring Fever is upon us, and there are a few crucial reminders we want to pass along to make 4th quarter a great end to the school year.

Stopping Before Crosswalks

We have several crosswalks in our parking lot, and we’ve had quite a few close calls. As a result, we’ve had stop signs installed today to help prevent injuries. They look like this:

Please help us keep our students safe and make sure you stop and look both ways before driving across a crosswalk. 

Also, as a friendly reminder, please make sure to only turn right when exiting the parking lot during drop off and pick up. 

Being Late to Class

We see more students arrive late to class during the 4th quarter than any other time of year. This first few weeks of the quarter, we are making a push to really reinforce the importance of being on time to class. Here’s what to expect:

  • Teachers will close and lock their door at the start of class
  • Once they’ve gotten the class going and taken attendance, they’ll step out in the hall and talk with any tardy students. This should be a positive conversation to get context, reiterate expectations, and troubleshoot why they are late in the first place.
  • If it continues, they’ll message you directly in ParentSquare to get your help in reinforcing the importance of being on time at home.

Dress Code Reminders 

We have seen a major uptick in students dressing outside the guidelines of the dress code. 

Below is a quick guide to student outfit guidelines. Please help us ensure your student arrives within these guidelines. This poster outlines the District dress code guidelines in simple terms for you and your student. 

Managing Anxiety

SoJo counseling is offering a small-group counseling program focused on developing effective strategies for managing anxiety.

Anxiety is a common challenge for many students, and this group is designed to provide a supportive and confidential environment where students can learn practical skills to handle these feelings. The primary goal is to help students identify the sources of their anxiety, understand the physical and emotional responses, and develop coping mechanisms to navigate stressful situations more effectively.

Program Details:

  • Focus: Developing coping skills, stress reduction techniques, and cognitive strategies for managing anxiety.
  • Duration: The group will run for approximately 4 to 6 consecutive weeks.
  • Structure: Sessions will be held during PROWL so students won’t miss class time.
  • Confidentiality: All discussions within the group are kept confidential to ensure a safe space for sharing and growth.

If you believe your student would benefit from participating in this program, please fill out the Google Form.

Counseling Survey for Parents

Every three years, the counseling department gathers feedback from parents, students, and teachers to see make the South Jordan Middle School counseling program be the best that it can be. We would greatly appreciate input from parents. You can click the link below to access the survey. If you are asked for a code, use this: I91HQ9

There are about 50 questions and it will take approximately ten minutes to complete. Thank you!

https://www.utscsurveys.com/CTESurvey?PointerId=646&SchoolId=162

ASPIRE Testing April 23rd and 24th

9th-grade students will participate in ASPIRE testing on April 23rd and 24th. 8th-grade students will complete their Writing portion of the RISE. All other RISE testing for 7th and 8th will be later, we will send an announcement closer to the testing date. We will have an accommodated bell schedule on both of those days to allow time for testing.

What can you do to help us? 

  1. Please make sure your student is in attendance those days. Since this is a state-mandated test, we have to ensure every student is tested. If they aren’t present those days, we will have to pull them out of class to test. We want them in class!
  2. Make sure your student arrives with a charged Chromebook on both of those days! 
  3. Have a solid breakfast and get plenty of sleep the night before. 
  4. Get your student excited! This is a great way for them to show how much they know and for you to see where your student’s learning is at! Plus, this is great practice for the ACT!

If you have any questions regarding opt-outs, please reach out to either Ivie Smalling or Melanie Pew.