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H.L. Watkins Middle School
Bi-Weekly Newsletter November 7, 2022
Storm Update - Schools Closed November 9 and November 10
Parents and Staff,
Out of an abundance of caution, Superintendent Mike Burke has made the decision to close
District-operated schools and offices on Wednesday, November 9 and Thursday, November 10,
as Subtropical Storm Nicole continues to track closer to Florida’s east coast.
Additionally, all athletic practices and competitions at the middle and high school levels are
canceled for Wednesday and Thursday. Also, effective immediately, all athletic practices
previously scheduled for today, November 8, are canceled.
The District is working closely with the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) to
determine make-up dates for football playoff games. The rescheduling of all other athletic
events will be determined on a school-by-school basis once the District reopens.
Palm Beach County’s Department of Emergency Management determines when emergency
shelters are open. At this time, the District has been directed to open six school-based shelters
beginning tomorrow at 7 a.m. The shelters are: Independence Middle School, Palm Beach
Gardens High School, Palm Beach Central High School, Park Vista High School, Lake Shore
Middle School and Pahokee Middle-Senior High.
Specifics regarding shelter rules, as well as all District-related updates, will continually be
shared via email and phone, and updated on the District’s designated Storm Update webpage.
That webpage contains important information about the storm’s potential impact on our School
District, along with information about emergency contacts, county and state updates, and
resources for supporting young children who may be frightened by the storm.
“We have been watching Subtropical Storm Nicole closely before making our decision to close
schools,” Superintendent Mike Burke said. I will continue to work closely with emergency
managers and make timely decisions in the best interest of our students and staff. I do not
anticipate that the District will need to make up the two days I have designated that we will close
this week.”
While schools and District offices will be closed Wednesday and Thursday, employees will be
notified by their supervisors if they are needed to report to work for storm-related support.
Thank you for your support of the School District of Palm Beach County. Please stay safe and
remain informed.
From the Principal's Desk
Dear Seminole Parents, Families and Students,
Can you believe that November is already here? Time flies when you are focused.
Our softball and baseball seasons have ended, but Girl's Volleyball and Boy's Soccer games will be starting very soon. The Cheer and Drill teams are practicing their routines every day as well as our Band and Drum Lines. As I walk through the courtyard during their practice, I am honored to have the opportunity to witness their talent! And more celebrations of our scholars continue with HERO and achievement levels on FSQs. Plus later this week we will celebrate our Honor Roll students.
The campus is thriving with greatness!
I have a few things I need your help with: Parents, once you drop your child off in the morning, many are leaving campus before school starts to visit the shops near by. I'm asking that no matter how early your student is dropped off, that they remain on campus, no matter how early. We have before school care and tutorial should your family require this service. This ensures that we can maintain their whereabouts and safety. Thank you for your support in this.
Additionally, student dress code is still in effect. Students, I reiterate the expectation that you remain in dress code. This contributes to an academic environment and avoids progressive discipline.
We are here to support you if you have any questions or concerns. Contact the school at 561-776-3600 or email me at Presley.Charles@palmbeachschools.org.
Best Regards,
Dr. Presley Charles, Principal of Howell L. Watkins Middle School
“Excellence is the Standard, We are ONE!”
Tutoring is available to everyone!
Click here to register.
Our 8th Graders had a busy week!
Their week started off with presentations from area high schools providing information on their Choice Programs. Please reach out to Ms. Tona or Mrs. Alexios if you need assistance with the Choice application process.
A group of students then took a trip to the Kravis Center downtown for a live performance.
We are looking forward to more field trips for our scholars, but need your help! Join us on November 15th for 8th Grade Parent Night.
🎉Celebrating Achievements!
Tuesday, November 8 is Voting Day, No School For Students
Here is our Dress Code Policy
See Something, Say Something
For Your Planning:
No School - Students
Tue, Nov 8, 2022, 09:30 AM
Election Day
Tue, Nov 8, 2022, 07:00 AM
8th Grade Parent Night
This meeting will serve the purpose of welcoming of parents to their Scholar's 8th Grade Year. We will be discussing planned 8th Grade Activities and associated costs, High School Prep (including assisting with Choice Program applications), etc.
Tue, Nov 15, 2022, 05:30 PM
Paper 24/7 is here to help with homework - take a look!
Contact Us:
Email: Presley.charles@palmbeachschools.org
Website: https://hlwm.palmbeachschools.org/
Location: Howell L. Watkins Middle, Macarthur Boulevard, Palm Beach Gardens, FL, USA
Phone: 5617763600
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HLWatkinsMiddle/
Twitter: @WatkinsSeminol1
Instagram:@HLWMSOFFICIAL