JANUARY 2012 HOME OF THE HURRICANES PAGE …...JANUARY 2012 HOME OF THE HURRICANES PAGE 1 Harper...

JANUARY 2012 HOME OF THE H URRI CAN ES PAGE 1

Harper Park Middle

701 Potomac Station Dr.

Leesburg, VA 20176

School Hours 8:30-3:18

Main Office 571-252-2820

Attendance 571-252-2822

Clinic 571-252-2821

www.lcps.org/hpms

Contents:

From the Main Office……...….2

School Menu………………........4

Yearbook Ordering Info..……...7

Counselor‘s Corner……….........8

Dean‘s News……………............10

Team News.…..……....…..........14

January Calendar……….….....26

Harper Park Middle School ―A School to Watch‖

PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE

By William S. Shipp

HOME OF THE HURRICANES

Jan. 16 — MKL holiday

Jan 17-20—semester exams

Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable winter break. With

the New Year upon us, we have many important and exciting events planned in

the days, weeks and months ahead. However before we move too quickly

ahead, please note that many seventh and eighth grade students will be taking

end of semester exams during the last four days of the semester, and we ask

that you please help your child prepare for these exams by reminding them to

study, eat well and get plenty of rest. The first semester will end on Friday,

January 20, and our second semester will begin on Tuesday, January 24, with

an ―A‖ day.

For those of you who enjoyed the December concerts performed by our seventh

and eighth graders, you‘ll be pleased to know that many of our sixth grade mu-

sic students will take the stage in January. The music department will present

the sixth grade band concert on Wednesday, January 25, and the sixth grade

chorus will perform on Tuesday, January 31. Both concerts will begin at 7 PM.

These concerts will be especially fun as many students will be showcasing their

musical talents for the first time.

As we go into 2012, I would like to thank everyone who has been involved in our

DASH (Dads at School Helping) program. The participation has been out-

standing and we look forward to the contributions the Dads provide every day.

Our outstanding PTA has been very busy recently coordinating a number of

events here at school. Thank you to Nikki Holton, Jen Zecca and the rest of the

HPMS PTA for providing staff with delicious cookies during our annual PTA

Cookie Exchange on December 15. What a festive way to begin our Winter Holi-

day! We cannot thank our PTA enough for the wonderful support it provides

each and every day. Our first PTA meeting of the New Year will be on Thurs-

day, January 12, at 7 PM. Hopefully you can take some time that evening and

join us for the meeting.

We expect 2012 to be an outstanding year at Harper Park! We wish everyone

the best and look forward to your continued support and encouragement.


From the Main Office

Visitor, Volunteer, and

Late Student Sign in Procedure

All visitors need to stop by the Main Office upon

arrival. All visitors, volunteers, and late students

will log into the computer located in the main of-

fice. A pass or name tag will automatically print

out. While at HPMS, all people signing in will be

required to wear a visitor‘s name tag. Students

will take their late pass to their House Office and

sign in there as well. Please be prepared to show a

valid ID.

Early Dismissals

If at all possible, please send a note in with

your child the morning of an appointment.

The student‘s house secretary will write a

pass to excuse the student at the appropriate

time. This will alleviate the need to disrupt

the classroom, and your child will be waiting

in the front office when you arrive. If send-

ing a note is not possible, please arrive

5 minutes early to assure a smooth pickup of

your student.

HPMS Contacts

Main Office

Principal………………………...William S. Shipp

Asst. Principal…………………….Don Keener

Asst. Principal…………………….Beth Robinson

Main Office Secretary…………...Susan Lang

Main Office Secretary……….…Teresa Burciaga

Bookkeeper………………………...Janice Steele

Parent Liaison……………………..Neldy Negron

Nurse……………………………….Terri Thomson

House A (8th grade)

Dean………………………………….Meshelle Cary

Counselor…………………………….Cherie Krisa

Attendance Secretary ..…………….Linda Young

House B (7th grade)

Dean…………………………………...Fitzroy Frew

Counselor……………………….Zamarit Simpkins

Secretary…………………...………..Debbie Wells

House C (6th grade)

Dean……..…………………..Mary Beth Woodford

Counselor……………….…………..….Leslie Kole

Secretary…………………..Catherine Happersett

School Work Requests

When students are absent, the parent or

guardian should call the Absentee Line at

571-252-2822 and inform the school of the

reason of absence and when they will return

to school. When a student misses 3 or more

days, the parent/guardian may request

missed school work from their child‘s House

Secretary by calling before 9:00 a.m. The

missed class work from the teachers will be

collected and available for pick up after

3:30 p.m. on that day. Please do not request

class work on the Absentee Line. Attendance Harper Park Middle School parents: we

need your help! When your child is absent,

please call the attendance line at 571-252-

2822 to notify the school. For your conven-

ience, this is a 24-hour answering machine.

An absence will be unexcused if the school

does not receive a note or a phone message

from the parent or guardian.

Tardies

All students must be in their classroom by the 8:30

a.m. bell. Any student arriving to class after the

8:30 a.m. bell will be considered ―tardy‖ and must sign

in at the Main Office and receive a ―tardy‖ pass. A par-

ent/guardian should accompany his/her child to the

office or send a note with the child when arriving late

to school.


November 2011: Why Advisory? Q. In his keynote presentation at the AMLE Annual Conference, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan noted that in a recent study published by AMLE, only half of the schools had advisory programs. What’s the point of advisory and is it really necessary?

A. The answer is excerpted from Advisory: Finding the Best Fit for Your School, by James Burns, Jaynellen Behre Jenkins, and J. Thomas Kane.

Advisory is an essential and integral part of a developmentally responsive middle school, one that fosters trust, communication, and a true sense of belonging for the student as the result of positive relationships between students and teachers, and students and fellow students.

Advisory is a vehicle to enhance the essential relational work within the middle school community so no pupil is lost

amid the school population.

Advisory is an opportunity for discussion and dialogue on issues important to young adolescents. It enhances positive self-concepts and gives pupils direction toward positive lives as young teens.

Advisory in middle schools ensures that each young adolescent learner will be known well by at least one caring adult at school. Advisory is intended to scaffold each student’s likelihood for success in school, including academic achievement, with a distinct focus on development of positive relationships and effective communication with both peers and adults.

Advisory is not a curriculum, but a relationship.

These “definitions” make it clear that the term “advisory” is indeed a broad and nebulous term that is not easily ful ly encapsulated in a sentence or two. While an advisory program is usually the major element in a middle school’s efforts to fulfill its advocacy responsibility, the exact nature of that element varies tremendously. But what always distinguishes advisory from content courses of study is that it is primarily relational work with a focus on the affective aspects of an education. However, it should be said— and emphasized— that advisory supports and serves both directly and indirectly the cognitive, academic side of an education.

Why does Harper Park have an advisory program and what is it?

The administrative team and staff at Harper Park take great pride in all of our accomplishments over the

past thirteen years. This would not have been possible if we did not adhere to a philosophy based on ―what‘s

in the best interest of the students‖ and ―best practices‖ in education. Our intention is to educate the whole

child and with that comes building strong, secure relationships between students and staff. The advisory

program we utilize at Harper Park helps us respond to the need of all students to feel a sense of belonging

through positive relationships.

The following excerpt from a keynote address given by Secretary of Education Arne Duncan is beneficial in

helping parents further understand the reason why HPMS has had various forms of an advisory program for

the past six years.

The Deans


Week 3 cycle menu – Secondary Schools

Week of January 2nd

And Week of January 23rd

Hot Meal Line: Chicken Nuggets with

Wheat Roll Breaded Mozzarella Cheese Sticks with Marinara Sauce Sandwich Line: Crispy Chicken Sand-

wich

Peanut Butter & Jelly

Ham & Cheese Wrap

Corn Dog

Hamburger

Cheeseburger

Pizza & Salad Line: Cheese Pizza

Pepperoni Pizza

Vegetarian Chef Salad

Traditional Chef Salad

Hummus/Pita Vegeta-

ble Platter

Fruits & Vegetables

All Lines: Choice of 3 different

fruits and vegetables

Choice of 8 oz. 1% or

skim milk

Hot Meal Line: Chicken Nuggets Open Faced Beef Steak

Sandwich All Above: Steamed

Rice Sandwich Line: Spicy Chicken Sand-

wich


Chicken Salad Sand-

wich

Steak & Cheese Sub

Grilled Cheese Sand-wich

Pizza & Salad Line:

Cheese Pizza

Pepperoni Pizza



Chicken or Turkey

Caesar Salad

Fruits & Vegetables

All Lines:

Choice of 3 different



skim milk


Soft Pretzel Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl Sandwich Line: Crispy Chicken Sand-

wich


Turkey Sandwich

Corn Dog

Hamburger

Cheeseburger


Pepperoni Pizza Vegetarian Chef Salad


Hummus/Pita Vegeta-

ble Platter

Taco Salad on Taco

Day Only

Fruits & Vegetables




skim milk

Hot Meal Line: Chicken Nuggets

Beef Lasagna & Wheat

Roll

Sandwich Line: Spicy Chicken Sand-wich


Tuna Salad Sandwich

Steak & Cheese Sub

Bean & Cheese Burrito


Pepperoni Pizza



Fruit Salad with Yo-

gurt

Fruits & Vegetables All Lines: Choice of 3 different



skim milk

Hot Meal Line: Chicken Nuggets Hot Dog/Chili dog with

cornbread Sandwich Line: Crispy Chicken Sand-

wich


Chicken Caesar Wrap

Fish Filet Sandwich

Hamburger

Cheeseburger


Pepperoni Pizza

Tuna Salad

Hummus/Pita Vegeta-

ble Platter

Fruits & Vegetables




skim milk



Week of January 9th

And Week of January 30th


Macaroni & Cheese

All Above: Wheat

Roll

Sandwich Line: Crispy Chicken Sand-

wich


Ham & Cheese Wrap

Corn Dog

Hamburger

Cheeseburger


Pepperoni Pizza



Hummus/Pita Vegeta-

ble Platter

Fruits & Vegetables




skim milk


Pork BBQ & Coleslaw

All Above: Wheat

Roll

Sandwich Line: Spicy Chicken Sand-

wich


Chicken Salad Sand-

wich

Steak & Cheese Sub

Grilled Cheese Sand-

wich


Pepperoni Pizza



Chicken or Turkey Cae-

sar Salad

Fruits & Vegetables

All Lines:




skim milk


Taco Pie

All Above: Soft Pret-

zel


wich


Turkey Sandwich

Corn Dog

Hamburger

Cheeseburger


Pepperoni Pizza



Hummus/Pita Vegeta-

ble Platter

Taco Salad on Taco Day Only

Fruits & Vegetables




skim milk


Spaghetti & Meatballs

or Marinara Sauce and

String Cheese

All Above: Steamed

Rice


wich


Tuna Salad Sandwich

Steak & Cheese Sub



Pepperoni Pizza



Fruit Salad with Yogurt

Fruits & Vegetables




skim milk


Chicken and cheese

Enchilada


wich


Chicken Caesar Wrap

Fish Filet Sandwich

Hamburger

Cheeseburger


Pepperoni Pizza

Tuna Salad

Hummus/Pita Vegeta-

ble Platter

Fruits & Vegetables




skim milk



Week of January 16th

Hot Meal Line: Chicken Nuggets Teriyaki or Orange

Chicken All Above: Wheat

Roll Sandwich Line: Crispy Chicken Sand-

wich


Ham & Cheese Wrap

Corn Dog

Hamburger

Cheeseburger


Pepperoni Pizza

Vegetarian Chef

Salad

Traditional Chef

Salad Hummus/Pita Vege-

table Platter

Fruits & Vegetables




skim milk

Hot Meal Line: Chicken Nuggets Turkey Tetrazzini All Above: Wheat Roll


wich


Chicken Salad Sand-

wich

Steak & Cheese Sub

Grilled Cheese Sand-

wich


Pepperoni Pizza

Vegetarian Chef Salad Traditional Chef Salad

Chicken or Turkey

Caesar Salad

Fruits & Vegetables

All Lines:




skim milk

Hot Meal Line: Chicken Nuggets Beef or Bean Soft Taco All Above: Soft Pretzel Sandwich Line: Crispy Chicken Sand-

wich


Turkey Sandwich

Corn Dog

Hamburger

Cheeseburger


Pepperoni Pizza Vegetarian Chef Salad


Hummus/Pita Vegeta-

ble Platter

Taco Salad on Taco

Day Only

Fruits & Vegetables




skim milk

Hot Meal Line: Chicken Nuggets Chicken Parmesan with mari-

nara Spaghetti Noodles All Above: Steamed Rice Sandwich Line: Spicy Chicken Sandwich

Peanut Butter & Jelly Tuna Salad Sandwich

Steak & Cheese Sub



Pepperoni Pizza



Fruit Salad with Yogurt

Fruits & Vegetables All

Lines: Choice of 3 different fruits

and vegetables

Choice of 8 oz. 1% or skim

milk


Wheat Roll

Beef or Bean Nachos with Tortilla Chips Sandwich Line: Crispy Chicken Sand-

wich


Chicken Caesar Wrap

Fish Filet Sandwich

Hamburger

Cheeseburger


Pepperoni Pizza

Tuna Salad

Hummus/Pita Vegeta-

ble Platter

Fruits & Vegetables




skim milk


LOOKING FOR THAT PERFECT GIFT FOR YOUR

MIDDLE SCHOOLER THAT IS:

A. PERSONAL

B. ONE SIZE FITS ALL

C. NO LINES TO STAND IN

D. ALL OF THE ABOVE

IF YOUR ANSWER IS D, THEN ORDER A HPMS YEARBOOK NOW!

ORDER ONLINE 24/7 AT WWW.JOSTENSYEARBOOK.COM

NOW UNTIL FEB. 11TH $30 - AFTER FEB 12 TO MAY 27TH $35

MAY 28TH AND AFTER – NO LONGER AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE!

Or mail to:

Jostens Yearbook Service Center

P.O. Box 17609

Denver, CO 80217


Congratulations to all students who earned the privilege of attending the Recognition Reception for the first quar-

ter honor roll, PE stars of the quarter, Dean‘s Dozen and Perfect Attendance. Keep up the good work! BUG

(Bring Up Grades) Club will start next quarter. The criteria for BUG Club is listed below and another way for

students to earn academic success. Second semester ends on January 20th. Exams will be administered to all

students taking high school classes for credit, e.g. Algebra 1, Foreign Language, from January 17th to

January 20th. Please encourage your children to stay focused on academics. In addition to Resource class, most

students still benefit from at least an hour a night in home study; reviewing and preparing for classes. Attendance

is extremely important at this time.

6th Grade: Over seventy-five percent of our 6th grade students made the honor roll for the first nine week grading

period. Keep up the good work! Congratulations! Sixth grade students will not take exams this year. Next year,

students taking high school credit classes will be required to take semester and final exams. Students will receive

a lesson in Conflict Resolution through Language Arts classes during January. Please contact Mrs. Kole at 571-

252-2820 with any questions or concerns.

7th Grade: At the end of the month, semester exams will take place for students taking high school level classes-

Algebra I and Foreign Language I. Students should begin to prepare with daily review. Students will partici-

pate in a guidance lesson on sexual harassment during resource class in either January or February. Students

will learn what constitutes sexual harassment, why it is wrong, strategies to use as a target or a witness of harass-

ment, and consequences for this misconduct. Please contact Mrs. Simpkins at 571-252-2820 with any questions or

concerns.

8th Grade: We are approaching the end of the 2nd quarter. Semester exams will take place from January 17th

and January 20th in all high school credit classes. The students‘ semester grades will be calculated using the first

and second quarters, along with the exam grade. The exam grade will count for 1/5 of the semester grade. Eighth

graders will receive a guidance lesson on ―Why College?‖ at the end of the month and into February. In the lesson

they will use the College Board website to research requirements for admission at various colleges.

Important Dates

Academy of Science

Friday, April 8th – Decision letters will be postmarked to applicants.

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology

January – Letters postmarked to semifinalists regarding status

Immediately, return the Counselor Information Sheet to Mrs. Krisa

Monday, February 13th – Student Data sheets and recommendations due to Mrs. Krisa

Saturday, March 31st – Final notification of accepted students

Counselors‘ Corner


COUNSELORS‘ CORNER cont.

Rising 9th Grade Students

Rising Freshman Information Night at Heritage – Wednesday, March 7th at 7 PM in the auditorium at Heritage! Parents and 8th grade students are invited to attend this information session

to learn all about transitioning to high school. Advance Placement curriculum, course objectives and exams will also be dis-

cussed.

Our rising 9th graders will visit Heritage High School on March 20th.

The B.U.G. CLUB

(BRING UP GRADES CLUB)

Another way to recognize our students for academic improvement is induction into the BUG Club (Bringing Up

Grades Club). Starting with the second report card, students will have the opportunity to become members of

the BUG Club. The criteria for being a member of the BUG Club are to:

Earn all passing grades.

Keep all grades from falling (Do not drop a full letter grade.)

Raise at least one grade a full letter grade (If the grade remains the same or has not gone up a full grade, it

does not qualify.)

All ‗A‘ students are automatically BUG Club members.

CAMPUS

CAMPUS, a college access program, invites interested rising ninth grade students to apply. CAMPUS, a Guid-

ance Services initiative of Loudoun County Public Schools, is an academic and college preparation program.

CAMPUS is designed to meet the specific needs of historically under-represented students and prospective first-

generation college students. Accepted students will participate in mandatory CAMPUS activities in grades 9-12

and will gain academic enrichment as well as college and scholarship preparation. Application packets will be

available sometime this month.

The SAC ( Student Activity Council) would like to thank every-

one for your contributions to our coat drive. We had a great

response. This month we will be collecting hats and mittens.

Thanks in advance for your help.

Shelly Owings - Sponsor


DEANS‘ NEWS AT THE PARK

6th Grade

Happy New Year! I hope that you enjoyed the holiday

season! January offers us new beginnings and opportu-

nities at Harper Park.

The first semester of your student‘s middle school career

ends this month on Friday, January 20th! On that same

date, we will enjoy the sixth grade hockey tournament as

teams play through their P.E. classes to advance to the

final game. Students will then have a day off from

school on January 23 as teachers work to prepare their

grade reports for second quarter/first semester.

We will have two sixth grade music concerts in January.

Mark your calendars: January 25 is the sixth grade band

concert, and January 31 is the sixth grade chorus con-

cert. Both concerts begin at 7 p.m. in the auditorium.

As demonstrated in November at the sixth grade strings

concert, the students always do a great job and it is won-

derful to see them excel at something new!

Please encourage your student to dress appropriately

during these winter months wearing long sleeves, long

pants and a jacket. Wearing layered clothing is helpful

in moderating student comfort in classrooms as they

move throughout the building during the school day.

Weather permitting; we will continue to offer students

the opportunity to go outside to enjoy fresh air and sun-

shine during their lunch break.

Please contact your student‘s teacher(s) if you have a

question and/or want to schedule a conference. If you

need any assistance, you may also contact me at mary-

[email protected]

As always, thank you for sending us respectful and re-

sponsible students who are ready to meet the challenges

of each school day!

Mary Beth Woodford, 6th Grade Dean

7th Grade

It is amazing to think how quickly the first half of the

school year has come and gone. As a reminder, please

ensure that your sons and daughters are dressing appro-

priately for the winter months. During lunch, if the

temperature outside is 45 degrees and above, students

will be invited outside for a mini recess. On Thursday,

January 5th, immediately after the holiday break, sev-

enth graders will host a college day. College students

will visit Harper Park and present to seventh graders

various aspects of college life. Some of the presenters

may speak on topics such as what it takes to excel in

college, balancing socializing with studying, adjusting to

life away from home and parents, balancing academics

and athletics, etc. The presentations will take place dur-

ing Resource. Once college day has passed, students will

turn their attention to various Benchmark Assessments.

January will also mark the end of the second quarter

and the first semester. Students, especially those in

high school bearing credit classes, will be challenged

with semester exams. As always, the seventh grade

teachers are working tirelessly to challenge and prepare

students for what lies ahead. If you have any additional

questions, comments, and/or concerns, please contact me

at [email protected], or at (571) 252-2820.

8th Grade

Let the New Year Bring a New Attitude The place to improve the world is first in one‘s own

heart and head and hands. -- Robert M. Pirsig

What does the midpoint of eighth grade look

like? Take a look at what your child is doing

academically, socially, behaviorally, emotionally

and physically- what do you see? Talk with your

child on a daily basis about school and look for

growth of ideas, expectations, motivation and

tolerance and acceptance of different things.

This is a time of great change for eighth grade

students. Give them space to grow, learn and

experience the world, while remaining as a guide

and role model for them. Some students will have

more difficulty adjusting than others—just be there

for them, love them and enjoy these years. Let‘s

have a new year and a positive new attitude toward

supporting the change our student are growing

through. Meshelle H. Cary, 8th Grade Dean

mailto:[email protected]




1. On Thursday, January 5th in the morning, the 7th and 8th grade Bands will travel to Broad Run High School to

hear THE Navy Concert Band, considered one of the finest in the world. This is a real treat!

2. Try-outs for District 16 All District honors Band are on Saturday, January 7 at Seneca Ridge middle School.

There are 15 from Harper Park trying out this year from the 7th and 8th grade. Wish them luck!

3. On January 18 and 19 (Wednesday, and Thursday), the 6th grade band will have after school rehearsals un-

til 4:25 to prepare for their concert on Wednesday, January 26th.

4. The 6th grade band will have their first performance on Wednesday, January 25 at 7pm in the HPMS audito-

rium.

January 14th—A Cappella Workshop at Loudoun County High School

January 16th—Encore sings at the Douglas Center for Martin Luther King celebration

January 26th—6th Grade rehearsal

January 30th—6th Grade rehearsal

January 31st—CONCERT: 6th Grade Chorus, and Encore Concert

Congratulations on an outstanding concert in December! We have several events happening in January so please take

note and check your calendars.

Thursday, January 5th—7th/8th grades after school rehearsal 3:30-4:25pm; attendance is required as this prepares us

for our field trip this month.

Monday, January 9th—7th/8th grades strings after school rehearsal; attendance required as this prepares us for our

field trip this month.

Wednesday, January 11th—7th/8th grade Strings on Field Trip to Francis Hazel Reid E.S.

Wednesday, January 25th—7th/8th grade strings after school rehearsal: attendance required as this prepares us for

our field trip in early February.

Please note: if we have inclement weather and school closes, the ―A‖ and ―B‖ days could change at any moment. Please

be aware of this possibility and know that if we miss a rehearsal day due to a snow day, our rehearsals would be sched-

uled for the next available ―A‖ day.

BAND

CHORUS

STRINGS


Foreign Language Department News

All Level I and II Foreign Language classes are preparing for their Midterm Exams to be taken

at the end of this quarter. All students will be taking county wide assessments in each of their languages.

These tests review all material introduced in the first semester. Students will be evaluated in all four

skill areas of language acquisition: speaking, reading, writing and listening. Good luck to these students!

Sra. O‘Leary‘s Level II Spanish classes will be creating, practicing and presenting a Flipchart

Presentation of their Special Event as a means of review for their midterm exam. This oral project will

not only showcase the creativity of her students but is also an excellent resource providing review for their midterm exam. Level I Spanish classes are completing the unit on Food and Health and are

gearing up for their Midterm Exam. In Sra. Engleman's class, students are learning to talk about their

favorite activities at home and in school. Study Guides were distributed before the Winter Break and are

due the day of their Exam should you want to take advantage of the extra points being offered. Sra. Engleman and Sra. O‘Leary wish all of their students, and their families, a joyous holiday.

Herr Boland and Herr Stutzman‘s German I & II students will be attending a concert by a Schülerband from Bochum at Heritage High on Friday, January 13. The concert will begin around 11am and will be appropriate for all levels of instruction. The group is called ARTIG and consists of 4 young gentlemen

aged 21 and 22. They have been on the music scene for about 3 years in Germany and will be touring the

US in January. You can also find much of their work on You Tube. Two songs which Herr Boland has

selected for his students to learn are: "Zeitlos" and "Egal, wo".

French I students will work on describing their day at school for the remainder of the second quarter and

present activities that they like and don't like to do for their quarterly project. It is also time to begin

thinking about midterms! The exam will assess listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills, so

students should study a little bit every night to prepare for their midterm. The Review Guide will be distributed once we return from the break, so be looking for it! French II students are working hard

discussing sports and leisure activities in the past tense. As the end of the 2nd quarter approaches, these

students should also begin thinking about their Midterm Exam! Remember to study a little bit every night until the midterm, reviewing notes and vocabulary from Chapters 8-11. The Review Guide will be

distributed after the break, so be looking for it!


The first semester has proven to be a wonderful time for creating art! Be sure to see our displays in the Main

Office Lobby and down the halls of the Park. Our huge exhibit is in May at the Dulles Town Center. We will

be sending more information as we get closer to May.

Mrs. Basinger‘s 8th graders have been working hard on drawing in several styles with realistic pencil render-

ing, graphic design, and a challenging project using 3 Point Linear Perspective with the theme of ―Fantasy

Land.‖ These projects are impressive! We‘ll close out the semester with a sculpture. It would be helpful if

students could bring small trinkets and found objects that they can embed into their sculpture. Ms. Taczak‘s

8th graders have been working very diligently on portrait drawing, specifically drawing their classmates with

their final culminating portrait being a self-portrait using Artist?s acrylic paints and a specified color scheme.

They have also done shadow drawings, highlight drawings, and expressive color portraits. Earlier this fall,

they completed with portfolios and created a art work out of an every day object.

Mrs. Basinger‘s 7th graders have completed Collagraph Printmaking, expansions on their prints, and clay

tiles reflecting the same ―In the Air or Under the Sea‖ theme. They will be starting linear perspective and

observational drawing in the new year. Ms. Taczak‘s 7th grade students are working on two-point perspective

drawing and will complete this unit with a realistic color architectural perspective drawing. They have also

completed gesture drawings that were painted, expressive line designs, and their portfolios.

Mrs. Basinger‘s 6th grade students will be ending their semester so they will be bringing home their portfolios

filled with projects using 1 point perspective, observational drawings, printmaking, color theory paintings,

and clay luminaries. Some of these fabulous projects will be held onto for the Dulles Town Center in May.

Ms. Taczak‘s 6th grade students have completed contour drawing, still life drawings, 1 point perspective cul-

ture drawings and are currently working on their clay projects. It‘s been a great semester and we will miss

our students!

Happy New Year

From HPMS ART Department


6TH GRADE

TEAM NEWS

Mr. Water‘s Language Arts classes will have a busy, but exciting, month ahead! Students will be wrapping up

figurative language and finishing our unit by creating ―figurative language menus.‖ Sixth graders will also be

taking their first benchmark test of the year, which will provide students feedback with their reading progress

thus far. As always, feel free to email me at [email protected], with any questions or concerns. I truly ap-

preciate your support! Please congratulate our ―Readers of the Month‖ for the month of December; Shejprit

Kaur Singh, Matthew Goldfield, and Nick Skafidas, for their hard work and determination!

Science 6 students are learning about the layers of atmosphere that surround the earth. After learning about

the atmosphere, students are going to be investigating the role of water and air pressure in the weather events

that occur in the troposphere.

In American History, Mr. Kapp‘s classes are finishing their Colonial America unit this month and will begin

studying the American Revolution. First semester benchmark tests will be given in early January. This is a

diagnostic test only and will provide important feedback on your student‘s progress this year.

Ms. Davis‘ classes are making great progress with their 40 Book challenges. Ask to see your student‘s chart to

find out just how many books they have read this school year. During this month, the students will take their

first benchmark test. This provides students feedback with their reading progress thus far. The students are

beginning research projects. Warm up with a great book!

Ms. Lee's Math 6 classes will be multiplying and dividing fractions and mixed numbers. Accelerated Math

classes will be going into proportional reasoning. Students should still be studying their properties.

WHIRLWIND (Mr. McClellan, Mr. Kapp, Ms. Davis, Mr. Waters,

Ms. Hinch and Ms. Lee)



6TH GRADE

TEAM NEWS

Thanks to all Team Lightning students for the beautiful holiday cards you made for the Wounded Warrior Founda-

tion. They were delivered in December and were very much appreciated.

In History, we are finishing up our Colonial America unit and will be moving on to exploring the key people and

events of the Revolutionary War. One of the highlights of this unit is when the students create Revolutionary War

timelines. Congratulations to all Geography Bee classroom winners! We had quite a competition and wish them

luck in the next round.

Our Language Arts students will be beginning research in January. Greek and Latin root-based vocabulary will be

introduced after the first of the year. We will also continue reading, writing, and grammar each day. Please con-

tinue to remind your child to read every night.

In math, both the Math 6 classes and the accelerated classes are working hard to become more familiar with alge-

bra and rational numbers.

Science students will be studying atmosphere and weather for the month of January. Please watch the weather

forecast with your student. Also please visit www.achieve.weatherbug.com and try some of the activities.

LIGHTNING (Ms. Ensminger, Ms. Gould, Mr. Avery, Ms. Zane,

Mr. Slauson, Ms. Youhana and Ms. Avdellas)

http://www.achieve.weatherbug.com


6TH GRADE

TEAM NEWS

Team Thunder has begun working on their research projects in language arts. We also continue to read and

write on a daily basis. The students made wonderful, life size characters from the book "SEEDFOLKS". If you

are at Harper Park come down the main hall to see what a GREAT job they have done. The students are doing

quite well on their vocabulary and spelling. The tests/quizzes for both will be on alternate Fridays. Please check

your students agenda. Make sure your student is reading every night!!!

Math 6: Fractions, Fractions, FRACTIONS!

Not only will we be operating with fractions and mixed numbers, but we will also be using real world applications

that include fractions. We won‘t focus on the algorithm alone, but multiple representations when using fraction

operations so that the students understand the ―behind the scenes‖ when it comes to adding, subtracting, multi-

plying, and dividing fractions and mixed numbers. We want them to understand the WHY behind the algorithm

and not just memorize HOW to do the operations. Check out your child‘s notes from class so that you can assist

at home if needed.

Accelerated Math 6/7 and Math 7: Expressions, Equations, and Inequalities!

Focus this month will be on evaluating Expressions and solving Equations and Inequalities. We will be using

Hands-On-Equations in class and using a pictorial representation at first then moving on to only the algebraic

methods behind solving equations and inequalities. From there we begin Proportional Reasoning using real

world applications. Check out your child‘s notes from class so that you can assist at home if needed.

Mr. Smith – Science 6 :

Science 6 is currently working with the universal solvent – WATER! We just finished up pH and used water to

help us find the pH of solids by dissolving them in water. This has led us into working with water and experienc-

ing its many other qualities that make is so unique and special. We completed a lab with pennies and drops of

water/ drops of soapy water to observe and test the effect of cohesion and adhesion. We are now move into testing

warm vs. cold water and the effect it will have on surface tension. Warm water molecules move faster than cold

and thus surface tension is not as taught. Happy Holidays!! The plan when the students come back is to finish

up with water doing the water Olympics.

In January, Team Thunder is working on Chapter 5: ―Revolution‖. Students will be getting into ideas about gov-

ernment, representation, and taxation. Any insights or thoughts you want to share with your student on these

topics would only make the content easier to understand. Don't forget that homework is due every Thursday or

Friday on whatever new material was covered the previous week.

THUNDER (Ms. Ives, Mr. Smith, Ms. Owings and Mr. Penka)


7TH GRADE

TEAM NEWS

Students have been working hard in math. They have become quite skilled at working with Rational Num-bers. They will be applying this knowledge to all of the new material that they will learn this year. These web sites are fun and a good way to review what you are studying in class. Here are some sites that you might en-joy:

Ms. Dodson's Language Arts classes have been reading Much Ado About Nothing by William Shake-

speare. Students studied the Elizabethan era, and will concentrate on research skills. Students should be

reading at least 30 minutes every night to help them achieve their goal of seven books this quarter.

Storm History students are completing study of immigration and the rise of cities and will soon begin learning

about industrialization and the rise of big business. Be sure to check Mrs. Turner's assignment calendar to

keep up with notes if you are absent or have questions about what was covered in class.

Ms. Karunaratne's Life Science classes have been learning about photosynthesis and cellular respiration.

Coming up: cell cycles and all about DNA! Remember to review your Terms2Learn daily!

http://www.google.com/search?q=integer+game&hl=en&safe=active&rls=com.microsoft:*&prmd=ivns&ei=p

hHiTtP0KIn40gH-rPz6BQ&start=10&sa=N -- This site helps with Integers and order of operations.

http://www.google.com/search?q=integer+game&hl=en&safe=active&rls=com.microsoft:*&prmd=ivns&ei=p

hHiTtP0KIn40gH-rPz6BQ&start=10&sa=N -- This game helps you operate with Integers.

http://www.google.com/search?q=integer+game&hl=en&safe=active&rls=com.microsoft:*&prmd=ivns&ei=ph

HiTtP0KIn40gH-rPz6BQ&start=10&sa=N -- This site will help you with +, -, x, / Integers.

http://oswego.org/ocsd-web/games/mathmagician/cathymath.html -- This site helps you memorize numbers

The following sites have many fun math games:

http://www.mathsisfun.com/games/index.html http://hoodamath.com/games/

http://www.coolmath.com/

http://www.mathplayground.com/games.html

STORM (Ms. Karunaratne, Ms. Dodson, Ms. Maddern, Ms. Turner

and Ms. Carter)

http://www.google.com/search?q=integer+game&hl=en&safe=active&rls=com.microsoft:*&prmd=ivns&ei=phHiTtP0KIn40gH-rPz6BQ&start=10&sa=N






http://oswego.org/ocsd-web/games/mathmagician/cathymath.html

http://www.mathsisfun.com/games/index.html

http://hoodamath.com/games/

http://www.coolmath.com/

http://www.mathplayground.com/games.html


BOLT (Ms. Ives, Mr. McClellan, Ms. Matos and Mr. Penka)

7TH GRADE

TEAM NEWS

Mrs. Matos – 7th Grade Language Arts

In the second marking period, we learned several note-taking techniques, and we practiced them as we took notes about

Shakespeare‘s life and times. The seventh grade students are exploring Shakespeare‘s play, ―Much Ado About Nothing‖.

Soon we will begin to explore research writing. During our mini-lessons, we are cleaning up common writing errors. Our

next Book Report Project is due on January 5th or 6th. Keep reading!

In January, Team Bolt is working on Chapter 5: ―Industrialization‖. This is a great time to discuss business and

finances with your student. Don't forget that homework is due every Thursday or Friday on whatever new mate-

rial was covered the previous week.

Mr. Smith – LifeScience

Life Science students have been doing labs and homework related to osmosis and diffusion. We just finished up a

lab that we observed over the course of 10 days placing an egg in: vinegar (to dissolve the shell) and watched the

egg become enlarged. Then placed the egg in corn syrup and watched the egg shrink. Finally, we placed the egg in

regular water. We took the mass, diameter, as well as measured the amount of fluids before and after to see where

the fluid moved to and from. Most recently we created a recipe book to discover the secrets of photosynthesis. From

here we will move on to cellular respiration and then on to genetics! Happy Holidays!! Keep studying a little each

night, create and use flash cards to help study for upcoming tests.

Accelerated Math 6/7 and Math 7:

Expressions, Equations, and Inequalities!

Focus this month will be on evaluating Expressions and solving Equations and Inequalities. We will be using

Hands-On-Equations in class and using a pictorial representation at first then moving on to only the algebraic

methods behind solving equations and inequalities. From there we begin Proportional Reasoning using real world

applications. Check out your child‘s notes from class so that you can assist at home if needed.

BOLT (Ms. Ives, Ms. Matos, Mr. Penka and Mr. Smith)


7TH GRADE

TEAM NEWS

Mrs. de Groot's Life Science classes have been going "cell" crazy. We have seen, drawn, and described cells un-

der the microscopes. We have watched osmosis take place across the cell membrane and it happened right in

front of our eyes with plant cells! Now, we are exploring photosynthesis, cellular respiration, mitosis, DNA, and

genetics. We will also begin exploring mutations and adaptations.

Mr. Kern‘s Language Arts classes have been studying William Shakespeare‘s Much Ado About Nothing. We

have learned about the Elizabethan era, and this month students will be honing their research skills. Students

should be reading a book or magazine for 30 minutes every night.

In Social Studies, Mr. Knor‘s classes are just finishing their unit, ―The Rise of Cities.‖ For the rest of January,

we‘ll be studying Big Business and starting World War I.

Ms. Beckwith‘s math classes have been busy learning integer rules, working with fractions, and learning about

the Order of Operations. And who says you can‘t have fun in math class!

TWISTER (Ms. Cooper, Ms. deGroot, Mr. Kern, Ms. Fults, Mr. Knor

and Ms. Beckwith)


8TH GRADE

TEAM NEWS

We hope everyone had a great winter break! On December 21st, we had a team activity where we created snow-

flakes to adorn our hall and decorated cookies to enjoy! We all enjoyed these team-building activities!

In English, we completed our unit on short stories where students learned how to identify and explain the impor-

tance of literary elements and appreciate fine literature. Students continued to improve their writing techniques

by learning new revision practices and composing different types of writings. Additionally, students prepared for

their benchmark test.

―Where‘s the on button?‖ ―What is the difference between copper and insulated wire?‖ ―Wow! Look how bright it

is!‖ The students‘ enthusiasm for our electricity and magnetism unit has been impressive and illuminating. Stu-

dents are learning about circuits, current, Ohm‘s Law, conductors and insulators. They even built their own elec-

tromagnet motor! To wrap up the quarter we will be learning about waves and sound. Students will continue to be

exposed to the Jason Project and the multiple resources available online (www.jason.org). As we move into the

third quarter, students will be expected to become more responsible for their own learning objectives and outcomes.

While retakes will still be allowed, students will need to take the initiative to ask for assistance and schedule re-

takes on their own.

In January, we will continue to focus our studies on Federalism and the Three Branches of Government. Students

learned about the Benchmark Essay topics just before Winter Break and will work one of the three choices in and

out of class. They are expected to give a final presentation of their views mid January; you are encouraged to help

with this process. Students will have a cumulative quarter test grade which will be in mid January. A review

packet will be handed out ahead of time to help the students narrow their thoughts for the assessment. We will be

on a fast pace throughout the month of February so we can be prepared to begin Economics and the Stock Market

Game in March.

With second semester just around the corner, it‘s important that Jet Stream students continue to come to class pre-

pared and ready to work. It‘s hard to believe that half of the school year has almost passed! Our best wishes for a

wonderful New Year!

JET STREAM (Ms. Austin, Ms. Bangert, Ms. Furtner, Mr. Meyer

and Ms. Novak)

http://www.jason.org/


8TH GRADE

TEAM NEWS

Hello all and welcome to the team CYCLONES newsletter installment. It is always difficult to get

back into the swing of things upon return from winter break, but we‘ll do our best. Here‘s what is going on this month:

ENGLISH: Students will be continuing to work on their writing through various assignments in preparation for the SOL writing test, high school, and beyond. We will also be working on a PO-

ETRY unit whereby students will read various selections, understand and identify elements, and

eventually will create their own book of poems. Great fun!

CIVICS: Our classes have completed our unit on historical documents. This month we will take a more in-depth look at the United States Constitution and then begin a brand new unit on the three

Branches of Government.

SCIENCE: For this month, students will begin a unit on Electricity and then we will start Magnet-ism.

We hope that all of our Harper Park students and their families enjoyed their winter holiday and

have a happy and healthy NEW YEAR!

CYCLONE (Mr. Baker, Ms. Greenburg, Ms. Lyford, Ms. Malli and

Ms. Reedy)


8TH GRADE

TEAM NEWS

In English, the students are reading their first novel, The Giver. It leads itself to great classroom discussions.

They are working on creating productive reading groups and leading discussions on the theme and issues within

the book. They are also working on identifying literary passages of importance. They are also writing a five

paragraph essay. The emphasis is on developing a detailed essay with an introductory and concluding para-

graph. Then they will learn and implement three various revision techniques.

In Civics, students are beginning to learn about the United States Constitution and the group of men who cre-

ated it! Their compromises and accomplishments will be studied. This unit was initiated with a study of the

weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and how this led to the need for a stronger national government.

This is Mrs. McPhillips‘ favorite topic of the year, and she hopes that her enthusiasm is contagious.

In Science, we have completed the unit on energy, using activities such as designing virtual roller coasters on

the computer and building them in class. Students did exceptionally well during the energy unit. We're now

heading into our Electricity and Magnetism unit, which will also have several experiments that will help stu-

dents grasp the concepts. We used a Van de Graff machine, which was a "shocking" experience for all and had

the "Static Electricity 500," where students raced aluminum cans using only a balloon. These activities rein-

force the main concepts of the unit.

In Math, we have continued the in-class focus on grasping foundational algebra concepts, and recently com-

pleted simplify expressions through use of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. We have now

moved on to solving one and two step equations. If students are ever looking for extra help, please don't hesitate

to have them let me know so I can provide the extra help they need.

TSUNAMI (Ms. Eyerman, Ms. O‘Leary, Ms. McPhillips and

Mr. Kilmartin)


7th grade FACS (Family and Con-

sumer Science)

Mrs. Brower

The Family and Consumer Science (FACS) students

have finished up their second Growing Up Ready mod-

ule. They enjoyed experiencing the fun activities in a

couple different modules this semester. We have con-

tinued working on correctly structuring a paragraph

with opening and closing sentences in the critical writ-

ing assessment at the end of each module rotation.

Modules expose students to a variety of employability

skills in several Family and Consumer Science clus-

ters.

In FACS throughout the semester, we have empha-

sized measuring. Students have had several lessons

on fractions. We continue to work on ―recipe math‖

and ―sewing math‖. Seventh grade students have had

a lot of fun as we sew pillow using a sewing machine.

Students were exposed to a lot of new sewing vocabu-

lary. Seventh grade FACS students can all sew on a

button too. Life skills! We take what we learn and

use it in real life. Learning is fun in FACS!

8th grade FACS (Family and Con-

sumer Science)

Mrs. Duhring

It's almost that time of year again... time to schedule

those classes and get ready for the next school year to

start. In thinking about the 8th grade program, the

FACS department would like to share some informa-

tion about the 8th grade FACS program. This pro-

gram is available full and half year, so your student

can take additional electives if they are torn between

this and other courses that are available full and half

year as well.

Family and Consumer Sciences was formerly known

as ―home economics.‖ Now, the FACS curriculum cov-

ers 20 different topics relating to life skills. In FACS

classes, students learn about the importance of per-

sonal and family living from a practical, problem-

solving approach, addressing enduring questions

across the life-span. I addition, FACS teaches young

men and women their roles in society, life skills, con-

sumer rights and responsibility, and how to be in-

volved in their community.

In 8th grade FACS courses, students develop knowl-

edge and skills in: resource management, including

time management and financial literacy; individual,

child, and family development; nutrition and food sci-

ence; clothing and textiles; living environments

(housing and interior design).

FACS courses provide education for the whole child

and practical applications to develop 21st Century

Learning Skills. A former slogan for this content area

was, ―If you don‘t pass FACS, you may not pass life.‖

FACS courses prepare students for their current and

future roles as individuals, family members, and mem-

bers of society. They learn how to balance work and

family in order to have a well-rounded, successful life.

Mrs. Duhring and Mrs. Brower look forward to seeing

your child in 8th grade FACS next year!


P.E. Department News

Jumping back into January!

We hope you've had a wonderful holiday! We just want to remind you about checking out the

department's home page to find useful information such as the "Homework and Event Calen-dar" page and the "Document for PE and Health" page. (Ms. Walker still maintains her own

site as well.) You can monitor homework or check when quizzes, tests, or projects are due.

There are many documents on the latter page, including sports rules sheets (study guide),

M.A.P. (My Activity Plan--assignments are due weekly), and/or some material related to

Health.

The MAP is a monthly calendar that students use to set various goals and keep track of their

exercise. The MAPS are to be brought to school on Mondays/Tuesdays (A/B day) to be

checked, but can be kept at home otherwise. Students are given a hard copy, but if it is lost,

they can access and print a copy online.

This quarter in Health, 7th and 8th grade will be doing a brochure related to Recreation and

Non-communicable Diseases, respectively. There is a copy of the brochure in a variety of dif-

ferent formats plus an information page (8th grade only) located in the Documents page on

the web site. This was assigned before the holidays and is due January 9th or 10th (depending on when your child has Health/PE). 6th grade will be doing a poster in class re-

lated to either Communication or Family.

As always, if you have any comments or concerns, please feel free to contact us. Enjoy a

happy, healthy January!


Subscribing to PE and Health Content E-Alerts (and other areas) For you to receive Content E-Alerts for Health and PE about some homework, due dates, and other important information, you must subscribe to that area of our website (FREE). E-Alerts can be sent by teachers to let you know when new content has been posted to the website. To sign up for Content E-Alerts, you must first register for the website.

1. Go to the Harper Park Website and click on REGISTER in the top middle area of the webpage. 2. Enter your birth date to prove you are over the age of 13. Your birth date information is

collected only to validate your age and is not stored. Click SUBMIT. 3. Enter your first and last name, email address, user name and password. If you want, you can

fill in the other items. Entering your zip code will allow the site to calculate your distance from locations listed on the site. Click SUBMIT.

4. Then click on SIGN IN at the top middle of the webpage. Sign into your website. 5. Click My Account. A drop-down list displays. 6. Click Edit Account Settings. The Account Settings window opens on the General tab. 7. Click the Subscriptions tab. 8. Click Add Area. The Add Area window opens. 9. Click on Other Areas. Change drop down menus to Harper Park – All Channels 10. In the Search box type HEALTH. Click Search. 11. Click in the check box to the left of Health & Physical Education

Harper Park Middle School / Departments / Health & Physical Education and your child’s teacher channel.

12. Click IM DONE. 13. Click Save. Your selections display on the Subscriptions tab. You will receive Content E-Alerts

from those areas when teachers send them. You can unsubscribe from an area at any time simply by clicking Remove to the right of that area on the

Subscriptions tab.


Harper Park Middle School

701 Potomac Station Dr.

Leesburg, VA 20176

Check the Loudoun County Public Schools Website for the latest information about meetings, school

closings, etc. at www. lcps.org with a link to HPMS’ website @ www.lcps.org/hpms

Persons who, due to a disability, need assistance to be able to participate meaningfully in any school meeting, should contact Mr. Shipp at the school

(571-252-2820), at least five working days prior to the meeting.

LOUDOUN COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

January 3 Classes Resume

12 PTA Meeting, 7PM

16 no school, Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday

17-20 Semester exams

20 End of grading period

23 Student Holiday/Teacher Workday

February 1 Report cards

9 PTA Meeting 9AM

15 Rising 6th grade orientation

20 No school— Presidents Day Holiday

Future Dates

To Remember

http://www.statcounter.com/

http://www.statcounter.com/

JANUARY 2012 HOME OF THE HURRICANES PAGE …...JANUARY 2012 HOME OF THE HURRICANES PAGE 1 Harper...

Documents

Transcript of JANUARY 2012 HOME OF THE HURRICANES PAGE …...JANUARY 2012 HOME OF THE HURRICANES PAGE 1 Harper...