Thompson Friday Forecast

February 16, 2024

From the Principal.... Matt Clark

Ryan's Story Presentation for Students

Dear Thompson Families,

Thompson Middle School is committed to taking proactive steps to curb a problem that is found in schools everywhere: bullying and cyberbullying. In support of this, we have invited Mr. John Halligan, an international speaker and author, to conduct a presentation for our students. He will relay his own tragic experience as a parent whose 13-year-old son took his own life in 2003 after experiencing bullying from his peers since the 5th grade, both in school and online. Mr. Halligan further shares that Ryan wrestled with underlying mental health issues and depression, and these factors contributed to Ryan’s vulnerability and ultimate suicide.

His story is riveting and compelling and reminds students that there is a face, a person, and a heart on the other end of the screen. His presentation on February 29th will begin with a short video collection of home movie clips and still pictures of Ryan. Mr. Halligan will then tell the story of Ryan’s life and the factors that led up to his son’s suicide. The students will gain a perspective from inside the family of a child who is a victim of bullying and cyberbullying. In the wrap-up session, they will receive life-changing lessons about forgiveness, suicide prevention, the role of bystanders, and a challenge to apologize to someone. We encourage you to visit a website named for his son, www.RyansStory.org, for more information.

Because of the sensitive nature of this topic, we wanted to inform you about this presentation in advance. Students will engage in a pre-lesson before the presentation and will have a post-lesson after the presentation.

We encourage you to ask your child about the presentation and discuss it together. Our Support Services Staff will be available throughout the assembly and after for any students who need additional support.

Should you have further questions or if you would prefer that your child not attend this presentation, please email me at matthew.clark@d303.org before February 27, 2024.

Dr. Matt Clark

Principal

Ryan's Story Parent Presentation

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Dear Parents and Guardians,

I’d like to invite all of you to an evening presentation on Wednesday, February 28 at 7 PM in the Wredling Middle School cafeteria to discuss the intersection of social media and mental health issues in teens. The suicide rate among middle and high-school-aged children has increased drastically since the introduction of the smartphone, and cyberbullying has been a significant contributor to this alarming trend.

As a principal and parent, I know first-hand how overwhelming and dangerous the misuse of social media can be. That is why we booked John Halligan to speak to you. He has developed a presentation about his son, whose heartbreaking story changed his life forever. Through his story, Mr. Halligan has inspired students to reach out before it’s too late.

His program has received much praise for its effectiveness in helping parents and children better understand bullying, suicide prevention, and self-advocacy. He will tell his son’s story and discuss the above-mentioned critical topics. He will also advise parents and guardians on mitigating potential mental health risks. It would mean a lot to me if you could join us.

Please see the included invitation for more details.

Sincerely,

Matt Clark

Please Complete the Illinois 5 Essentials Survey

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Dear TMS Parents and Guardians:

This is a follow-up to the email I sent about the IL 5 Essentials Survey...this data is important for our growth. We only have 141 surveys completed and I need about 200 more for the survey to be valid. Can you help me?

This survey only takes about 10 minutes to complete!

Here is the link to the survey. It is in Spanish and English.

Please be sure to put in Kane County as our county so you can find Thompson. Also, please read the questions and possible answers carefully as they sometimes mix up the "importance" of the responses.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Matt

D303 Boundary Updates

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The District 303 Board has approved boundary maps for elementary, middle, and high schools. Maps are effective with the 2024-2025 school year beginning this fall. The Board's decision completes a process that began last fall to reduce school overcrowding and help to ensure equitable learning experiences across the District. District 303 had contracted with demographer RSP & Associates to create concept maps based on Board-approved guiding principles and community feedback. Please see the parent notice from Superintendent Gordon to learn more and review the approved maps.

Save the date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024

Join us for a delicious night of giving back!

Indulge in a Take-out and Delivery Fundraiser with Lou Malnati's Pizzeria located at 1048 Commons Dr, Geneva, IL. Not only will you be treating your taste buds to some amazing pizza, but you'll also be supporting Thompson PTO!

Lou Malnati's is generously donating back 20% of all proceeds to Thompson PTO, so every bite counts towards a great cause.

This evening is extra special with Thompson Middle School Girls Basketball and Honor Band Concert, along with performances by High School Bands at St Charles North High School. What better way to enjoy the night than with the convenience of Lou Malnati's Pizza?