Dear PVMS West Families,

The first marking period report cards will be made available in the Home Access Center (HAC) on Monday (11th) at noon.  Reminder - Although our schools no longer print report cards for all students, if you would like to request a print copy, simply email a MS West secretary, Mrs. Dickey (cdickey@pvsd.org) or Mrs. Sitron (csitron@pvsd.org), and one will be furnished for you/sent home with your child.  (Please let our secretaries know if you need any school resources/materials in print form.)

Special thanks to our students, parents, and teachers who participated in scheduling focus group discussions this past week.  Our East/West scheduling committee is looking forward to working with Mr. Merenbloom again on the 18th of this month.

The information that I am sharing this week largely provides reminders about conferences, American Education Week, the musical, yearbooks, the Talent Show, etc.    

from Home and School:

Giant, Box Tops, and Amazon:  Easy and lucrative fundraising opportunities – Please see this attachment!  Box Tops, Giant, and Amazon, 19-20.pdf

New News:

Musical – Frozen, Jr. - All sixth, seventh, and eighth graders are encouraged to audition for the musical!  Paperwork and audition pieces will be made available in West’s main office beginning on Monday, November 11th.  Auditions have been scheduled for December 9th, 2:30-5:00; with call backs, December 10th, 2:30-4:00.  Show Dates: March 13th, 7:30 p.m.; March 14th, 6:30 p.m.; March 15th, 2:00 p.m.  Students must pick up a form in the main office, and they must return a completed permission form in order to audition.  West is also looking for a parent volunteer to help supervise and organize students from 2:30-3:00; if anyone is interested in supporting the musical cast in this manner, please email Miss Yerkes, kyerkes@pvsd.org.  (Volunteers should have all clearances on file.)

Yearbooks on Sale - Pre-order your yearbooks now for only $28.00 at jostensyearbooks.com!  In the electronic age, it’s rare to come across stories and photos that aren't seen from a digital screen.  Lucky for us, the tradition of the yearbook is not only alive, but as strong as ever. It’s the one place where you can revisit friends, events, memories and stories from the school year without having to turn on your computer.  Again this year, we’re partnering with Jostens to bring you a convenient way for students to order their books. The yearbook will always be the perfect way for them to look back and share school memories with friends they made along the way.  You can order your book online at jostensyearbooks.com, by phone, or through the mail. It’s quick, easy and ends the hassle of bringing money to school. Please refer to the form you received in the mail for ordering and payment options.

Reminders:

from The Athletic Department – Winter Sports registration - Due by November 11, 2019.  Wrestling begins November 18, 2019 and basketball tryouts begin December 2, 2019.  Parents can register at pvvikings.com.

Reminder:  Basketball Hoops Season Kick off Youth Clinic:  Boys - For players, grades 2-8, November 9, 2019, 8:15-11:45.  Girls - For players, grades 2-8, November 9, 2019, 12:00-3:00. Link for registration, shared last week.

Talent Show - November 15, 2019.  Tickets ($7.00) will go on sale in the cafeteria on Nov. 4th.  The door will open at 6:30 p.m., and the Talent Show will begin at 7:00 p.m. 

American Education Week, Revised Date – Nov. 18-22, 2019 - American Education Week is a celebration of public education and the people who contribute to our students’ success. Please join us in this celebration by making plans to stop by one of our schools on Parent Visitation Day. All of our schools will be welcoming parents to visit on Wednesday, November 20th (Middle Schools and High School: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.)  A few notes for parents:  We cannot make accommodations for parents to eat lunch (or attend recess) with their children.  Volunteer clearances are not necessary to visit on this day, but you will need to be prepared to show your driver’s license when you sign in at your child’s school.  Please do not bring younger siblings along for the visit. Please be respectful of student privacy issues and refrain from capturing photos/video during your visit.

Jordan Sonnenblick Visit – Author (The Sheriff of Sixth Grade, Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie; Notes from the Midnight Driver) and friend to Perkiomen Valley, Jordan Sonnenblick will be coming to PV Middle School West on Thursday, November 21, 2019!  Mr. Sonnenblick will present two assemblies and a writer’s workshop.  To fully celebrate reading, students will be encouraged to “drop everything and read” whenever they can throughout the day. 

We still have a few copies of award-winning YA author, Jordan Sonnenblick’s, titles that will be autographed. Anyone who purchases a signed copy of one of Mr. Sonnenblick's books will be entered into a raffle to have lunch with him on November 21, 2019. Students should bring an order form with money to the library if they are interested in purchasing a signed book. Click here  for a copy of the order form.

3-2-1 Thanksgiving – Faculty, staff, and students will feast together during lunches on November 21, 2019.  Students will be encouraged to think of three things for which they are thankful, two people they need to (call and) thank, and one thank you note they need to send!

Parent/Teacher Conferences - Parent/teacher conferences will be offered on Monday, November 25th, and Tuesday, November 26th.  Middle school conferences offer parents/guardians the opportunity to meet with their child's instructional team.  Please know that conferences are not mandated, but our staff will be available on these two days to engage in conversations about a child's progress.  Likewise, if a team feels the need to meet with parents, a conference may also be initiated by the team of teachers. We will be using SignUp.com to schedule conferences this year; we ask that parents/guardians only elect one conference block.  (If anyone has trouble with a link/signing up, just let us know and we will troubleshoot and re-release.) Please see the links below:  

from the Foundation:  Harlem Wizards - The PVSD Foundation is proud to present the Harlem Wizards on Saturday, Nov. 16, beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the high school competition gym.  Ticket form - you can find a form online, or you can purchase a ticket at the door for $12.  Please join us for what is sure to be a fun evening of the Harlem Wizards displaying their basketball and comedy talents as they play against teachers and staff members from across the district. Our concession stand will be selling hot dogs, water and soft pretzels; Wizards merchandise will also be on sale.  We look forward to seeing you at this fundraiser for the Foundation, which provides grant funding to teachers and staff members to support innovative classroom instruction and other initiatives. If you have questions, please email pvsdfoundation@gmail.com, or visit pvsdfoundation.org.

from West’s Music Team:  The Winter Concert is approaching fast; in fact, it is Thursday, December 5, 2019 at 6:30 p.m. and 7:45 p.m.  The West bands, choruses, and orchestras will present a night of wonderful music. (Sixth-grade concert, 6:30; Seventh- and Eighth-grade concert, 7:45 p.m.) This also means that our ensembles are in their final preparations.  If you are the parent of a student musician, please ask him/her to play/sing their music for you. As this is one of our most popular events, we have not only split the concert times, but we will also be adding as much seating as possible! 

from West’s Counseling Center:  Student/Family Support…

New Perspectives on Addiction and Recovery with Keven McCauley, MD (The Sylvia W. and Randle M. Kauders Foundation) – Dec. 3, 2019, 6:30, Main Line Unitarian Church, 816 S. Valley Forge Road, Devon, PA 19333  Registration Information: https://conversation.zone/calendar/  (See “Tickets” icons for registration.)

Future Transition Event - Eight grade will begin the High School Transition process beginning on January 17, 2020.  From 7:56 to 8:48 a.m., Joe Paddock, one of the North MontCo Technical Career Center counselors, will present information and options for application to NMTCC.  If a student is interested in the possibility of attending, he/she will be presented with an application. Completion of the application does not guarantee that a student will be accepted into the program of his/her choice.  Completion of the application is only an indication that student and parent are open to the possibility of NMTCC as a high school option. West students who return their applications will be taking a trip to NMTCC on January 24, 2020 from 8:00 to 11:00 a.m.  The NMTCC Open House – Feb. 6, 2020, 6:00-8:00 p.m. - is a wonderful opportunity to enhance parents’ knowledge of the programs available to our students. 

Attendance Email:  Parents can use MSWAttendance@pvsd.org for any/all attendance emails.

from West’s Chromebook Service Center:  Chromebook Charging/Security: Please encourage your middle schooler to charge his/her Chromebook each and every evening and to bring it to school every day.  Thank you! Also, students should still use their lockers for valuables (i.e. phones and Chromebooks), especially when their backpacks are left unattended, i.e. lunch, PE, sports, etc.  Additional note: If you child loses a Chromebook charger or stylus (Chargers are $25 and a stylus is $22), he/she can purchase replacements at the library. Please send a check made payable to "Perkiomen Valley School District."

from Mrs. Lind - Nurse’s Notes:  Nurse’s Notes: Please know there is still time to send in your child’s sixth-grade physical along with any immunizations he or she may have had recently.  The school physician will be here in the spring, and if your child hasn’t turned in his/her physical by that time, he or she will be seen by Dr. Brosius.  Also, seventh-grade students require a dental form to be handed in to the nurse. If you have any questions regarding these requirements, please don’t hesitate to contact Mrs. Lind, 484-977-7210 or email clind@pvsd.org.

A reminder to parents and guardians:  If you ever need clarification or assistance with anything mentioned in my reports or if you have general questions, please email (dmilligan@pvsd.org) or call (484-977-7210).  Our entire front office team will be happy to assist you!

Stay warm!

Donna Milligan, Principal, PVMS West

Important Dates:  November

12- Talent Show Rehearsal - see your email for details

12- AMC 8 Testing, two sessions during the school day

15- Talent Show

18- Winter Sports Begin

20- Parent Visitation (adjusted date)

21- Jordan Sonnenblick visit, Holiday luncheon

25-29 No School for Students (25, 26 - Conferences)

Dear PVMS West Families,

Although there are only fifteen student days in November, this month is filled with many events.  The first marking period concludes today, and report cards will be available electronically in Home Access Center (HAC) after noon on the (revised date) 11th.  Please contact our main office if you would like to request a paper copy of your child’s report card.    

from Home and School:

Box Tops Contest - West collected 3,250 box tops for $325.00.  We also had 118 bonus certificates for $11.80 for a grand total of $336.80.  Thank you, everyone! Mr. Murphy’s homeroom was the winner with a total of 732 collected.   All, please keep clipping!

Here are the top three teacher results - for bragging rights, of course!

Mr. Murphy - 732

Mr. Cook - 443

Miss Gimber - 376

Mrs. Nelson – 296 (Honorable mention!)

Giant, Box Tops, and Amazon:  Easy and lucrative fundraising opportunities – Please see this attachment!  Box Tops, Giant, and Amazon, 19-20.pdf

New News:

Sports (Cross Country) News:  On Tuesday, West’s Boys' and Girls' Cross Country teams wrapped up their season with a solid performance at the PAC10 championships.  Medaling in their respective races were Jacob A. (13th place finish among 7th grade boys), Rebecca D. (10th place finish among 8th grade girls), and Sienna M. (1st overall girl among both 7th and 8th grade girls).  In the girls' Varsity race, Sienna M. not only finished first, overall, but she set a new course record with a time of 11:17. This performance capped an undefeated season for Sienna who finished first overall in every meet this season.  Congratulations to Sienna, Rebecca, and Jacob and to all of our runners who experienced increases in their personal times throughout the season. (I will endeavor to share more stories like this as our coaches, directors, supervisors, etc., in turn, share them with me.)

Are you ready to FALL back?  Daylight Savings Time ends, Sunday, November 3, 2019 at 2:00 a.m.

Nov. 5, 2019:  Election Day, No School for PVSD students

The Talent Show is scheduled for November 15, 2019.  Tickets ($7.00) will go on sale in the cafeteria on Nov. 4th.  The door will open at 6:30 p.m., and the Talent Show will begin at 7:00 p.m.  (MS West plans to push the second Activity Night to later in the school year. )

Jordan Sonnenblick Visit – Author (The Sheriff of Sixth Grade, Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie; Notes from the Midnight Driver) and friend to Perkiomen Valley, Jordan Sonnenblick will be coming to PV Middle School West on Thursday, November 21, 2019!  Mr. Sonnenblick will present two assemblies and a writer’s workshop. To fully celebrate reading, students will be encouraged to “drop everything and read” whenever they can throughout the day. 

In addition, Mr. Krown and some West band students are planning to play “Take 5,” “When the Saints Go Marching In,” “All Blues,” and “In the Midnight Hour.” (We are hoping that Mr. Sonnenblick will join the band!)

If a student would like to purchase an autographed book, please click here to view the order form attachment. Those who purchase an autographed book will be entered into a raffle to eat lunch with Mr. Sonnenblick!

3-2-1 Thanksgiving – Faculty, staff, and students will feast together during lunches on November 21, 2019.  Students will be encouraged to think of three things for which they are thankful, two people they need to (call and) thank, and one thank you note they need to send!

Reminders:

 Middle School Schedule Review - On November 6th and 7th, Mr. Elliot Merenbloom, a scheduling consultant, will be in-district to gather data and engage in conversation about our middle school schedules.  Mr. Merenbloom will review existing schedules/scheduling materials and speak with stakeholder groups to ascertain what is important to our academic culture - our students, families, schools, and district; eventually, he will offer recommendations based on both stakeholder input and his years of research/expertise.  We are excited to learn from and explore new ideas with Mr. Merenbloom. East and West parents are invited to meet with Mr. Merenbloom on the evening of November 6th, in East’s auditorium, from 6:00-8:00 p.m.   More information:  https://merenbloomseminars.com/

Harlem Wizards - The PVSD Foundation is proud to present the Harlem Wizards on Saturday, Nov. 16, beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the high school competition gym.  Ticket form - you can find a form online, or you can purchase a ticket at the door for $12.  Please join us for what is sure to be a fun evening of the Harlem Wizards displaying their basketball and comedy talents as they play against teachers and staff members from across the district. Our concession stand will be selling hot dogs, water and soft pretzels; Wizards merchandise will also be on sale.  We look forward to seeing you at this fundraiser for the Foundation, which provides grant funding to teachers and staff members to support innovative classroom instruction and other initiatives. If you have questions, please email pvsdfoundation@gmail.com, or visit pvsdfoundation.org.

American Education Week, Revised Date – Nov. 18-22, 2019 - American Education Week is a celebration of public education and the people who contribute to our students’ success. Please join us in this celebration by making plans to stop by one of our schools on Parent Visitation Day. All of our schools will be welcoming parents to visit on Wednesday, Nov. 20th (Middle Schools and High School: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.)  A few notes for parents:  We cannot make accommodations for parents to eat lunch (or attend recess) with their children.  Volunteer clearances are not necessary to visit on this day, but you will need to be prepared to show your driver’s license when you sign in at your child’s school.  Please do not bring younger siblings along for the visit. Please be respectful of student privacy issues and refrain from capturing photos/video during your visit.

Parent/Teacher Conferences - Parent/teacher conferences will be offered on Monday, November 25th, and Tuesday, November 26th.  Middle school conferences offer parents/guardians the opportunity to meet with their child's instructional team.  Please know that conferences are not mandated, but our staff will be available on these two days to engage in conversations about a child's progress.  Likewise, if a team feels the need to meet with parents, a conference may also be initiated by the team of teachers. We will be using SignUp.com to schedule conferences this year; we ask that parents/guardians only elect one conference block.  (If anyone has trouble with a link/signing up, just let us know and we will troubleshoot and re-release.) (Links will go live next week.)

from West’s Counseling Center – Student/Family Support…

Ask a Question, Save a Life:  You’re Invited to a Q.P.R. (Question, Persuade, Refer) Gatekeeper Training (Recognize the warning signs of suicide, Ask someone about suicidal thoughts, and Offer and connect to help – Nov. 6, 2019, 6:30-8:30, Upper Perkiomen Valley Library, 350 Main Street, Red Hill, PA  18076, RSVP: https://upperperkqpr.eventbrite.com

New Perspectives on Addiction and Recovery with Keven McCauley, MD (The Sylvia W. and Randle M. Kauders Foundation) – Dec. 3, 2019, 6:30, Main Line Unitarian Church, 816 S. Valley Forge Road, Devon, PA 19333

Registration Information:  https://conversation.zone/calendar/  (See “Tickets” icons for registration.)

Future Transition Event - Eighth grade will begin the High School Transition process beginning on January 17, 2020.  From 7:56 to 8:48 a.m., Joe Paddock, one of the North MontCo Technical Career Center counselors, will present information and options for application to NMTCC.  If a student is interested in the possibility of attending, he/she will be presented with an application. Completion of the application does not guarantee that a student will be accepted into the program of his/her choice.  Completion of the application is only an indication that student and parent are open to the possibility of NMTCC as a high school option. West students who return their applications will be taking a trip to NMTCC. Please see your email for details.  The NMTCC Open House – Feb. 6, 2020, 6:00-8:00 p.m. - is a wonderful opportunity to enhance parents’ knowledge of the programs available to our students.

Last Week’s Reminders:

Safe2Say - https://www.safe2saypa.org/tip/ - Safe2Say Something is a youth violence prevention program run by the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General. The program teaches youth and adults how to recognize warning signs and signals, especially within social media, from individuals who may be a threat to themselves or others and to “say something” BEFORE it is too late. With Safe2Say Something, it’s easy and confidential to report safety concerns to help prevent violence and tragedies.

Boys’ Basketball Hoops Season Kick off Youth Clinic:  For players, grades 2-8, November 9, 2019, 8:15-11:45.

PV Girls’ Basketball Hoops Season Kick off Youth Clinic:  For players, grades 2-8, November 9, 2019, 12:00-3:00.  Please see link/registration form!

from The Athletic Department – Winter Sports registration - Due by November 11, 2019.  Wrestling begins November 18, 2019 and basketball tryouts begin December 2, 2019.  Parents can register at pvvikings.com.

Activity Fee:  If your seventh- or eighth-grade child is planning to play a sport this year or take part in a club/activity, there is a $100 fee each year; this covers all activities for the year. A complete list of activities can be found on West’s website. Please read the linked Activity Letter - Activity Fee, 2019-2020.pdf

Chromebook Charging/Security:  Please encourage your middle schooler to charge his/her Chromebook each and every evening and to bring it to school every day.  Thank you! Also, students should still use their lockers for valuables (i.e. phones and Chromebooks), especially when their backpacks are left unattended, i.e. lunch, PE, sports, etc.  Additional note: If you child loses a Chromebook charger or stylus (Chargers are $25 and a stylus is $22), he/she can purchase replacements at the library. Please send a check made payable to "Perkiomen Valley School District."

Dress Reminder – As the temperatures continue to drop, please encourage your child to wear a sweatshirt or coat, especially in the morning.  West is a climate-controlled building, so many of our classrooms run a little cool. All students are encouraged to leave a sweatshirt and sweatpants in their lockers or gym lockers.  We also suggest leaving a pair of sneakers on site for classes such as PE, Tech Ed, FCS, science, and art. Our dress code can be found in our Student Handbook.

Lost and Found - We are no longer leaving lost and found items on a table outside the cafeteria.  Please encourage your child to check for lost items in the counseling center, locker rooms, or main office.  The assortment of items ranges from eyeglasses to sweatshirts. Items such as eyeglasses, jewelry and technology are stored in the main office.  Shoes, clothing, lunch bags, and water bottles are stored in the counseling center/locker rooms. Parents are welcome to check for items during Conferences. 

Attendance Email:  Parents can use MSWAttendance@pvsd.org for any/all attendance emails.

from Mrs. Lind - Nurse’s Notes:  Nurse’s Notes:  

Please know there is still time to send in your child’s sixth-grade physical along with any immunizations he or she may have had recently.  The school physician will be here in the spring, and if your child hasn’t turned in his/her physical by that time, he or she will be seen by Dr. Brosius.  Also, seventh-grade students require a dental form to be handed in to the nurse. If you have any questions regarding these requirements, please don’t hesitate to contact Mrs. Lind, 484-977-7210 or email clind@pvsd.org.

Mrs. Lind is currently doing the state-mandated screenings on all grade levels.  If there are any concerns, a letter will be sent home so that you may follow up with your eye doctor.  Please be safe during the upcoming holiday season! And check out the hand washing tips below from the CDC:

Wash Your Hands Often to Stay Healthy

You can help yourself and your loved ones stay healthy by washing your hands often, especially during these key times when you are likely to get and spread germs:

• Before, during, and after preparing food

• Before eating food

• Before and after caring for someone at home who is sick with vomiting or diarrhea

• Before and after treating a cut or wound

• After using the toilet

• After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet

• After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing

• After touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste

• After handling pet food or pet treats

• After touching garbage

from Montgomery County Office of Public Health: No Cost Flu Shots -  For any Montgomery County resident who wishes to reduce their risk of getting the flu! Everyone 6 months of age and older should get the flu vaccine every year!  If you are a Medicare Beneficiary or have Health Insurance, please bring insurance cards. Be assured there will be no co-pay or cost to you.  Please see the schedule below for days, locations and hours.

A reminder to parents and guardians:  If you ever need clarification or assistance with anything mentioned in my reports or if you have general questions, please email (dmilligan@pvsd.org) or call (484-977-7210).  Our entire front office team will be happy to assist you!

Warm regards and, if you family chooses to celebrate, Happy Halloween!

Donna Milligan, Principal, PVMS West

Important Dates:  November

Home and School Activity Night

5- No school, Election Day; Inservice for Teachers

Home and School Activity Night

12- Talent Show Rehearsal - see your email for details!

12- AMC 8 Testing, two sessions during the school day

15- Talent Show

18- Winter Sports Begin

20- Parent Visitation (adjusted date)

21- Jordan Sonnenblick visit, Holiday luncheon

25-29 No School for Students

25, 26- Conferences

Dear PVMS West Families,

Congratulations to PVSD’s 2019 Hall of Fame Inductees: Lisa (Thompson) Angleson, Dr. Joseph DeSimone, the late Thomas J. Keenan, and Charlie Kramer!

I hope this update finds you doing well as the month of October draws to a close.  Our first marking period concludes on November 1st, and report cards will be available electronically after noon on the 8th.  (Please check Home Access Center and contact teams/individual teachers about any questions or concerns that you may have.)  In addition, parent/teacher conferences are scheduled for November 25th (day and evening) and November 26th (day). 

Please see below for a variety of items that will keep you informed about district and/or MS West events and opportunities.    

from Home and School:

Thank you to all of our families who supported the Walk for West this year.  Thanks to your generosity, we raised over $4,500.00, and donations are still coming in!  If you would still like to donate, please send a check made out the "Perkiomen Valley West Home & School."  Don't forget to see if your company does donation matching. Giant, Box Tops, and Amazon:  Easy and lucrative fundraising opportunities – Please click here to see this attachment! 

New News:

Special thanks to PVSD and Sacks and Sons, Inc. for installation two basketball nets in our front parking lot!

Red Ribbon Week – 10/28-11/1 – Red Ribbon Week is an alcohol, tobacco, and other drug and violence prevention/awareness campaign observed annually in October in the United States.  For more information: http://redribbon.org/theme/.  West will demonstrate our commitment to a drug-free lifestyle by participating in lessons during Advisory as well as the following spirit days  (Some revisions from last week):

Mon. Be a “jean”-ius and be drug free! = Jeans

Tues. Being drug free is no sweat! = Sweatshirts

Wed. Have the power to say no to drugs! = Superhero gear

Thurs. “Orange” you glad to be drug free? = Orange

Fri. Use your head; wear red! = Red

(Thursday/Halloween:  West neither encourages nor discourages dressing up for Halloween.  If students do choose to dress up, Please - no masks, heavy/gory makeup, or props of any kind.  Costumes may not infringe upon safety or instruction/participation in any/all classes.)

Printed Report Cards, Etc. – Although our schools no longer print report cards for all students, if you would like to request a print copy, simply email a MS West secretary, Mrs. Dickey (cdickey@pvsd.org) or Mrs. Sitron (csitron@pvsd.org), and one will be furnished for you/sent home with your child. 

(Please let our secretaries know if you need any school resources/materials in print form.) 

Middle School Schedule Review - On November 6th and 7th, Mr. Elliot Merenbloom, a scheduling consultant, will be in-district to gather data and engage in conversation about our middle school schedules.  Mr. Merenbloom will review existing schedules/scheduling materials and speak with stakeholder groups to ascertain what is important to our academic culture - our students, families, schools, and district; eventually, he will offer recommendations based on both stakeholder input and his years of research/expertise.  We are excited to learn from and explore new ideas with Mr. Merenbloom. East and West parents are invited to meet with Mr. Merenbloom on the evening of November 6th, in East’s auditorium, from 6:00-8:00 p.m.   More information: https://merenbloomseminars.com/

Activity Night - West's Home and School invites all West students in November.  More information to follow.

Harlem Wizards - The PVSD Foundation is proud to present the Harlem Wizards on Saturday, Nov. 16, beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the high school competition gym.  Ticket form - you can find a form online, or you can purchase a ticket at the door for $12.  Please join us for what is sure to be a fun evening of the Harlem Wizards displaying their basketball and comedy talents as they play against teachers and staff members from across the district. Our concession stand will be selling hot dogs, water and soft pretzels; Wizards merchandise will also be on sale.  We look forward to seeing you at this fundraiser for the Foundation, which provides grant funding to teachers and staff members to support innovative classroom instruction and other initiatives. If you have questions, please email pvsdfoundation@gmail.com, or visit pvsdfoundation.org.

American Education Week, Revised Date – Nov. 18-22, 2019 - American Education Week is a celebration of public education and the people who contribute to our students’ success. Please join us in this celebration by making plans to stop by one of our schools on Parent Visitation Day. All of our schools will be welcoming parents to visit on Wednesday, Nov. 20th (Middle Schools and High School: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.)  A few notes for parents:  We cannot make accommodations for parents to eat lunch (or attend recess) with their children.  Volunteer clearances are not necessary to visit on this day, but you will need to be prepared to show your driver’s license when you sign in at your child’s school.  Please do not bring younger siblings along for the visit. Please be respectful of student privacy issues and refrain from capturing photos/video during your visit.

Parent/Teacher Conferences - Parent/teacher conferences will be offered on Monday, November 25th, and Tuesday, November 26th.  Middle school conferences offer parents/guardians the opportunity to meet with their child's instructional team.  Please know that conferences are not mandated, but our staff will be available on these two days to engage in conversations about a child's progress.  Likewise, if a team feels the need to meet with parents, a conference may also be initiated by the team of teachers. Sign-up information will be posted soon.

from West’s Counseling Center – Student/Family Support…

Mental Health First Aid Training (Youth):  Preparing you to help others experiencing a mental health problem (Presented by the National Council for Behavioral Health, MontCo Dept. of BH/DD, and the southwest regional Mental Health Services Coordination Office – Oct. 26, 2019, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Green Street Social Hall, 269 Green Street, Royersford, PA 19468, MHFA Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/se-regional-mental-health-services-coordination-office-6035664963 (There are additional sessions available.)

Ask a Question, Save a Life:  You’re Invited to a Q.P.R. (Question, Persuade, Refer) Gatekeeper Training (Recognize the warning signs of suicide, Ask someone about suicidal thoughts, and Offer and connect to help – Nov. 6, 2019, 6:30-8:30, Upper Perkiomen Valley Library, 350 Main Street, Red Hill, PA  18076, RSVP: https://upperperkqpr.eventbrite.com

New Perspectives on Addiction and Recovery with Keven McCauley, MD (The Sylvia W. and Randle M. Kauders Foundation) – Dec. 3, 2019, 6:30, Main Line Unitarian Church, 816 S. Valley Forge Road, Devon, PA 19333 Registration Information:  https://conversation.zone/calendar/  (See “Tickets” icons for registration.)

Lost and Found - We are no longer leaving lost and found items on a table outside the cafeteria.  Please encourage your child to check for lost items in the counseling center, locker rooms, or main office. PV

Attendance Email:  Parents can use MSWAttendance@pvsd.org for any/all attendance emails.

Future Transition Event - Eight grade will begin the High School Transition process beginning on January 17, 2020.  From 7:56 to 8:48 a.m., Joe Paddock, one of the North MontCo Technical Career Center counselors, will present information and options for application to NMTCC.  If a student is interested in the possibility of attending, he/she will be presented with an application. Completion of the application does not guarantee that a student will be accepted into the program of his/her choice.  Completion of the application is only an indication that student and parent are open to the possibility of NMTCC as a high school option. West students who return their applications will be taking a trip to NMTCC on January 24, 2020 from 8:00 to 11:00 a.m.  The NMTCC Open House – date TBD - is a wonderful opportunity to enhance parents’ knowledge of the programs available to our students.

Reminders:

Safe2Say - https://www.safe2saypa.org/tip/ - Safe2Say Something is a youth violence prevention program run by the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General. The program teaches youth and adults how to recognize warning signs and signals, especially within social media, from individuals who may be a threat to themselves or others and to “say something” BEFORE it is too late. With Safe2Say Something, it’s easy and confidential to report safety concerns to help prevent violence and tragedies.

Boys’ Basketball Hoops Season Kick off Youth Clinic:  For players, grades 2-8, November 9, 2019, 8:15-11:45.  See previous update.

from The Athletic Department – Winter Sports registration - Due in the athletic department, by November 11th, 2019.  Students who fail to meet this deadline may lose their opportunity to participate.

Talent Show – Save the date, Nov. 15th!  Tickets ($7.00) will go on sale in the cafeteria on Nov. 4th.  The door will open at 6:30 p.m., and the Talent Show will begin at 7:00 p.m.

Chromebook Charging/Security:  Please encourage your middle schooler to charge his/her Chromebook each and every evening.  Thank you! Also, students should still use their lockers for valuables (i.e. phones and Chromebooks), especially when their backpacks are left unattended, i.e. lunch, PE, sports, etc.  Additional note: If you child loses a Chromebook charger or stylus (Chargers are $25 and a stylus is $22), he/she can purchase replacements at the library. Please send a check made payable to "Perkiomen Valley School District."

Activity Fee:  If your seventh- or eighth-grade child is planning to play a sport this year or take part in a club/activity, there is a $100 fee each year; this covers all activities for the year. A complete list of activities can be found on West’s website. Please read attached Activity Letter - Activity Fee, 2019-2020.pdf

Dress Reminder – As the temperatures continue to drop, please encourage your child to wear a sweatshirt or coat, especially in the morning.  West is a climate-controlled building, so many of our classrooms run a little cool. All students are encouraged to leave a sweatshirt and sweatpants in their lockers or gym lockers.  We also suggest leaving a pair of sneakers on site for classes such as PE, Tech Ed, FCS, science, and art. Our dress code can be found in our Student Handbook.

from Mrs. Lind - Nurse’s Notes:  Please know there is still time to send in your child’s sixth-grade physical along with any immunizations he/she may have had recently.  The school physician will be here in the spring, and if your child hasn’t turned in his/her physical by that time, he/she will be seen by Dr. Brosius.  Also, seventh-grade students require a dental form to be handed in to the nurse. If you have any questions regarding these requirements, please don’t hesitate to contact Mrs. Lind @ 484-977-7210 or email clind@pvsd.org.  Mrs. Lind is currently doing the state mandated screenings on all grade levels.  If there are any concerns, a letter will be sent home so that you may follow up with your eye doctor.

from Montgomery County Office of Public Health: No Cost Flu Shots -  For any Montgomery County resident who wishes to reduce their risk of getting the flu! Everyone 6 months of age and older should get the flu vaccine every year!  If you are a Medicare Beneficiary or have Health Insurance, please bring insurance cards. Be assured there will be no co-pay or cost to you.  Please see the schedule below for a day, location and hours.

A reminder to parents and guardians:  If you ever need clarification or assistance with anything mentioned in my reports or if you have general questions, please email (dmilligan@pvsd.org) or call (484-977-7210).  Our entire front office team will be happy to assist you!

Warm regards and, if you family chooses to celebrate, Happy Halloween!

Donna Milligan, Principal, PVMS West

Important Dates:  October   

28 - Nov. 1 - Red Ribbon Week (For more information please visit http://redribbon.org/)

November

Home and School Activity Night

1 - End of Marking Period 1

5- No school, Election Day; Inservice for Teachers

6- Parent Stakeholder meeting with Scheduling Consultant, Elliot Merenbloom, MSE, 6:00 p.m.

11 - Winter Sports Registration due in PVHS Athletic Office

12- Talent Show Rehearsal 5:30 p.m.

12- AMC 8 Testing, two sessions during the school day

15- Talent Show, Door Opens at 6:30 p.m.

18- Winter Sports Begin

20- Parent Visitation (adjusted date)

21- Jordan Sonnenblick visit

25-29 No School for Students

25, 26- Conferences

• Elementary Schools: 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Middle Schools and High School: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

• We cannot make accommodations for parents to eat lunch or attend recess with their children.
• Volunteer clearances are not necessary to visit on this day, but you will need to be prepared to show your driver’s license when you sign in at your child’s school.
• Please do not bring younger siblings along for the visit.
• Please be respectful of student privacy issues and refrain from capturing photos/video during your visit.

Dear West families,

Only a few informational items to share this week...nevertheless, we are excited for our high school  and high school football team as they go up against their formidable rival, Spring-Ford! Go Vikings!

from Home and School:

A big Home and School (and West) thank you to all of our East and West parents who helped at Activity Night last Friday.  It was a huge success and the kids all had fun!

Did you know that West’s Home and School has a Facebook page?  It is a great way to find out about West news. Right now, we're running a contest to get more parents signed-up.  The 250th person to sign-up will have their choice of a $5 Wawa card or a Pura Vida bracelet. We won't forget about our parents who have already signed-up; we'll do a drawing for a prize for you, as well!

New News:

Limerick Evacuation Forms, duplicates due today - It is very important for every family to return this form so we have the correct information on file for your child in the event of an emergency.  If you have not submitted this form, please do so as soon as possible.

Wireless Ear Buds/AirPods – Please help us remind our students not to wear these during their classes or while transitioning from class to class.

Mid-marking Period/End of Marking Period – October 2nd, mid-point of the first marking period; November 1st, end of the first marking period.  Please check Home Access (HAC) and contact teams/individual teachers about any questions or concerns that you may have.

Breast Cancer Awareness – Operation Help is sponsoring a week-long activity (10/21-10/25) that entails a fundraiser – voluntary change donations to homeroom buckets - and spirit days:

           Sock it to Breast Cancer – Monday – Wear your craziest socks!

           Beat Breast Cancer – Tuesday – Wear camo!

           White Out – Wednesday – Let’s Erase Cancer!  Wear white.

             Scare Away Cancer – Thursday – Wear black!

Pink Out – Friday – Wear pink and/or all items supporting Breast Cancer research, awareness, and survivors.

Proceeds will be donated to chemotherapy care packages for men/women who are fighting for their lives.

Red Ribbon Week – 10/28-11/1 – Red Ribbon Week is an alcohol, tobacco, and other drug and violence prevention/awareness campaign observed annually in October in the United States.  For more information: http://redribbon.org/theme/.  West will demonstrate our commitment to a drug-free lifestyle by participating in the following spirit days:

Talent Show – Save the date, Nov. 15th!  Tickets ($7.00) will go on sale in the cafeteria on Nov. 4th.  The door will open at 6:30 p.m., and the Talent Show will begin at 7:00 p.m.

Lost and Found - We are no longer leaving lost and found items on a table outside the cafeteria.  Please encourage your child to check for lost items in the counseling center, locker rooms, or main office.

from the Counseling Center:  Be a Part of the Conversation Parent Information Nights 

Media, Messaging, and Youth:  Living with technology and reconnecting with kids – Oct. 22, 2019, 6:30, Hatboro-Horsham High School, Horsham Road, Horsham, PA  19044

Kids and Stress – Oct. 23, 2019, 6:30, K.D. Markley Elementary School, 354 Swedesford Road, Malvern, PA 19355

New Perspectives on Addiction and Recovery with Keven McCauley, MD (The Sylvia W. and Randle M. Kauders Foundation) – Dec. 3, 2019, 6:30, Main Line Unitarian Church, 816 S. Valley Forge Road, Devon, PA 19333

Registration Information:  https://conversation.zone/calendar/  (See “Tickets” icons for registration.) 

Reminders:

PV Boys’ Basketball Hoops Season Kick off Youth Clinic:  For players, grades 2-8, November 9, 2019, 8:15-11:45.  Please click here to see the  link/registration form!

Attendance Email:  Parents can use MSWAttendance@pvsd.org for any/all attendance emails.

Chromebook Charging/Security:  Please encourage your middle schooler to charge his/her Chromebook each and every evening.  Thank you! Also, students should still use their lockers for valuables (i.e. phones and Chromebooks), especially when their backpacks are left unattended, i.e. lunch, PE, sports, etc.  Additional note: If you child loses a Chromebook charger or stylus (Chargers are $25 and a stylus is $22), he/she can purchase replacements at the library. Please send a check made payable to "Perkiomen Valley School District."

Giant, Box Tops, and Amazon:  Easy and lucrative fundraising opportunities – Please click here to see this attachment! 

Activity Fee:  If your seventh- or eighth-grade child is planning to play a sport this year or take part in a club/activity, there is a $100 fee each year; this covers all activities for the year. A complete list of activities can be found on West’s website. Please click here to read attached Activity Letter.

Dress Reminder – As the temperatures continue to drop, please encourage your child to wear a sweatshirt or coat, especially in the morning.  West is a climate-controlled building, so many of our classrooms run a little cool. All students are encouraged to leave a sweatshirt and sweatpants in their lockers or gym lockers.  We also suggest leaving a pair of sneakers on site for classes such as PE, Tech Ed, FCS, science, and art. Our dress code can be found in our Student Handbook.

from Mrs. Lind - Nurse’s Notes:  Please know there is still time to send in your child’s sixth-grade physical along with any immunizations he/she may have had recently.  The school physician will be here in the spring, and if your child hasn’t turned in his/her physical by that time, he/she will be seen by Dr. Brosius.  Also, seventh-grade students require a dental form to be handed in to the nurse. If you have any questions regarding these requirements, please don’t hesitate to contact Mrs. Lind @ 484-977-7210 or email clind@pvsd.org.

Mrs. Lind is currently doing the state mandated screenings on all grade levels.  If there are any concerns, a letter will be sent home so that you may follow up with your eye doctor.

from Montgomery County Office of Public Health: No Cost Flu Shots -  For any Montgomery County resident who wishes to reduce their risk of getting the flu! Everyone 6 months of age and older should get the flu vaccine every year!  If you are a Medicare Beneficiary or have Health Insurance, please bring insurance cards. Be assured there will be no co-pay or cost to you.  Please see the schedule below for days, locations and hours.

A reminder to parents and guardians:  If you ever need clarification or assistance with anything mentioned in my reports or if you have general questions, please email (dmilligan@pvsd.org) or call (484-977-7210).  West’s front office team will be happy to assist you.

Have a great weekend!

Donna Milligan, Principal, PVMS West

Important Dates:  October   

21-25 – Breast Cancer Awareness Week/Operation Help

24 - Picture Retakes

28 - Nov. 1 - Red Ribbon Week (For more information please visit http://redribbon.org/)

November

1 - End of Marking Period 1

5- No school, Election Day; Inservice for Teachers

8- Home and School Activity Night

12- Talent Show Rehearsal 5:30 p.m.

12- AMC 8 Testing, two sessions during the school day

15- Talent Show

18- Winter Sports Begin

20- Parent Visitation (adjusted date)

21- Jordan Sonnenblick visit

25-29 No School for Students

25, 26- Conferences

Dear West Families,

What a truly beautiful day to Walk - for - West!  Each team participated in the walk, jog, run event as well as some backyard games, and each homeroom scored points for their collective laps.  Special thanks to our Home and School officers and parents for sponsoring, organizing, and supporting this fundraiser/ event!  And kudos to our motivational faculty! This afternoon, we will be tallying laps to find out which homerooms will win the Golden Sneaker Awards, favored and coveted prizes!

It is hard to believe that a full month has already come and gone, and it's starting to feel like fall.  The students have settled into their routines, and we are just shy of reaching mid-marking period, Oct, 2nd.  Therefore, I encourage all parents to check the Home Access Center (HAC) to monitor your child’s/children’s progress.  If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s performance, please contact your child’s team of teachers or individual teachers.  Let the counselors, Ms. Militello or Mr. Montgomery, or me know if we can be of additional assistance as well.

New News:

from West’s Home and School:  The Home and School has a lot to be thankful for this week.  First, thank you to all of our parents who donated playground equipment for the students to use at lunch.  We have two big bins full of supplies!

  Second, thank you to all of our families who donated to Walk for West.  You are all what allows our group to continue to support West students and staff, and everyone is grateful.

  Third, we want to thank the parents who volunteered their time to help at the Walk.  It would not have been the fun event that it was without you!

  Finally, thank you to all the parents who donated snacks for the dance on Friday night and volunteered to work at the snack stand.  We were overwhelmed by your generosity and the generosity of all of our West parents. You are truly the reason why we can continue to say, "West is Best!' 

  If you have any questions, please contact Amy Butler at amyjpowers@hotmail.com or any of our board members:  Kim Fortino, Stacey Verguldi, and Christine Leifer.    You can also check out our Facebook page for more information.

Home and School Envelope Drive - A reminder from West's Home and School:  To donate, please fill out the envelope, attached to the Walk for West flyer, and return it to your student's homeroom teacher by Friday, 10/4 -- IF your child forgot to bring it in this week!

Measures of Academic Progress Reports - MAP Reports are being sent home with your child, Friday, Sept. 27, 2019.

West and West’s Student Council will hosted our first school DANCE! Please see your email for specific details.

Reminders:

No School for Students - Sept. 30th (Holiday) and Oct. 1st (Inservice)

The PAYS (Pennsylvania Youth Survey) – Our sixth- and eighth-grade students will be participating in this survey on October 2, 2019.  For more information about the survey, please see - https://www.pccd.pa.gov/Juvenile-Justice/Pages/Pennsylvania-Youth-Survey-(PAYS)-2019.aspx, specifically “Information about the Pennsylvania Youth Survey.”

Sixth-grade Camp- The sixth-grade teams will be participating in Outdoor School.  The outdoor school program affords students experiential-based lessons designed to complement the science curriculum.  In addition, students will participate in group challenges to foster teambuilding. See your email for more details. Please don’t forget to submit both a permission slip and payment.

Limerick Forms – All are encouraged to resubmit a new Limerick form to your child’s homeroom teacher.

Attendance Email:  Parents can use MSWAttendance@pvsd.org for any/all attendance emails.

Chromebook Charging/Security:  Please encourage your middle schooler to charge his/her Chromebook each and every evening.  Thank you! Also, students should still use their lockers for valuables (i.e. phones and Chromebooks), especially when their backpacks are left unattended, i.e. lunch, PE, sports, etc.

Giant, Box Tops, and Amazon:  Easy and lucrative fundraising opportunities – Please click here to see this attachment!  

Dress Reminder – West is a climate-controlled building, so many of our classrooms run a little cool.  All students are encouraged to leave a sweatshirt and sweatpants in their lockers or gym lockers.  Also, for students who prefer to wear flip-flops, we also suggest leaving a pair of sneakers on site for classes such as PE, Tech Ed, FCS, science, and art.  Our dress code can be found in our Student Handbook.

PVSD Foundation – Please click here to see the Boon Supply (formerly Mixed Bag Designs) fundraiser. 

Activity Fee:  If your seventh- or eighth-grade child is planning to play a sport this year or take part in a club/activity, there is a $100 fee each year; this covers all activities for the year. A complete list of activities can be found on West’s website. Please click here to read attached Activity Letter.

from West’s Counseling Center:

Be a Part of the Conversation, Events Calendar:  https://conversation.zone/calendar/

PA System of Care Partnership Montgomery County Family Support Groups and Organizations: https://www.pacarepartnership.org/family-partner/family-support/montgomery-county-support-groups-orgs  Example - Grandparents Raising Grandchildren, etc.

from Mrs. Lind - Nurse’s Notes:  Please know there is still time to send in your child’s sixth-grade physical along with any immunizations he/she may have had recently.  The school physician will be here in the spring, and if your child hasn’t turned in his/her physical by that time, he/she will be seen by Dr. Brosius.  Also, seventh-grade students require a dental form to be handed in to the nurse. If you have any questions regarding these requirements, please don’t hesitate to contact Mrs. Lind @ 484-977-7210 or email clind@pvsd.org.

Mrs. Lind is currently doing the state mandated screenings on all grade levels.  If there are any concerns, a letter will be sent home so that you may follow up with your eye doctor.

Vaping - A national health concern.  Parent guides and information:

The Vape Talk:  https://www.lung.org/stop-smoking/vape-talk/  

E-cigarette, Vapes, and Jules:  What Teens Should Know:  https://www.lung.org/stop-smoking/smoking-facts/e-cigarettes-teens.html

The Impact of E-cigarettes on the Lung:  https://www.lung.org/stop-smoking/smoking-facts/impact-of-e-cigarettes-on-lung.html

Have a wonderful weekend!

Donna Milligan, Principal, PVMS West

If you have any questions or concerns, please call our office 484-977-7210; we will be more than happy to assist you!  

Important Dates:

September  30 - No School, Holiday

October      Home and School, East/West Combined Activity Night 

     - see your email for details!

Outdoor School for sixth grade students

• see your email for details!

   1 - No school, Inservice

                    8 - Half day, Inservice

                    9 - No school, Holiday

                   15 - Home and School Meeting, 7:00 p.m., MS West Library

                   24 - Picture Retakes MSW