Weekly Hook

In an attempt to get a bit of inspiration on what to write about this week I Googled "what to tell teachers after Thanksgiving break." I can tell you that the search did not turn up anything inspirational. I did find this article that talks about how difficult it is to teach during the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas https://trevormuir.com/2018/11/26/teaching-after-thanksgiving/ and a couple of funny Eddie B videos.

I know that I want to tell you all to finish the semester strong. We have a lot to prove this year and saying we want the A rating and actually getting it takes hard work and dedication to providing rigorous, standards-aligned lesson everyday. But I already know you all are doing that and will continue to do so.

Mostly I wanted to tell you not to forget to take care of yourself. I know I've discussed this in a previous Weekly Hook, but this is a stressful time of year. and it bears repeating. I know that with all that goes into our profession, on top of all the holiday stuff, we can run ourselves ragged. Stress can take a toll on us. Here are some suggestions on ways to take care of yourself:

• Set specific time slots when you don't work.
• Get enough sleep.
• Exercise regularly.
• Talk to family and friends
• Eat good food.
• Go outside
• Get organized.
• Read a book for fun.
• Schedule time for yourself.
• Say no.
• Take deep breaths.
• Laugh a lot.

Whatever you do to take care of yourself, don't feel guilty doing it! In the end it will make you a happier, more productive person in all aspects. I think y'all are the best and deserve the best! Let's make this a great three weeks!!

This week I want to brag on my trusty sidekick, Lauren Lewis. I can honestly say I don't think I could do it all without her. She is a dedicated educator who is committed to excellence and she continually challenges me to be committed to excellence at all times. Mrs. Lewis is not a "yes man" to me. We've had many heated "discussions," but end up seeing each others point of view and make the best possible decisions. She makes me do cute things...and I'm not a cutesy person. I know when I ask Mrs. Lewis to do something it gets done beyond my expectations. Most importantly, she has a passion for students and ensuring that they all feel accepted, valued and safe.

Pass Christian Middle School students Jalynn Bloodsworth and Skye Godley recently won our congressional district's 2019 Congressional App Challenge! This is a distinguished accomplishment to be incredibly proud of. It is our hope at PCMS that these young ladies, as well as all other students who participated in this challenge, will continue to pursue opportunities that showcase their passion for programming and entrepreneurship. Congressman Steven M. Palazzo wrote a letter to all students that submitted an App to the challenge stating, "It has always been one of my highest priorities to continue the advancement of computer science and STEM education. It is bright students, like yourself, that are going to impact the world one day." Congratulations to Jalynn and Skye on a job well done!

By: Jesse Carman

12/3 & 12/4: 6th & 7th ELA

12/5 & 12/6: 8th ELA & 6th MTH

12/9 & 12/10: 7th & 8th Math

All testing must be completed by the 19th. Students with rush flags of an "off" result should be considered for retesting. Please consult with me and I will reassign diagnostics on a case by case basis.

Scott Beebe with the Jackson County FABLAB will be on campus on January 13th & 14th. He will be available to speak to you all during your planning periods about how you can use the FABLAB in your classroom. He will also talk about exciting opportunities for you to participate in the FabLab summer camps that we will be hosting here at the K-8 site.

Monday 12/2/19

• Regular Schedule
• Admin Meeting 8:00AM
• Weekly Perfect Attendance Drawing
• Faculty Meeting @3:15PM
• PCMS Basketball vs. PRC @4:30 (Home)

Tuesday 12/3/19

• Regular Schedule

Wednesday 12/4/19

• Regular Schedule

Thursday 12/5/19

• Regular Schedule
• PCMS Basketball vs. Poplarville @5:00 (Away)

Friday 12/6/19

• Regular Schedule

Looking Ahead (Week of Dec 2-29)

• Grade Level Meetings (12/9)
• PCMS Basketball vs. West Wortham @4:00 (Home)
• PLCs (12/10)
  
• PCMS Basketball vs. East Central @4:00 (Home)

The mission of the Pass Christian Public School District, in partnership with families and community, is to empower all students to be college-career ready learners, critical thinkers, and contributing citizens.

Students excel when:

Curriculum is challenging and progressive

Actively engaged in the learning process

All have an equal opportunity to learn

Learning is a shared responsibility

Held to clearly defined, high expectations

All are accepted, valued, and safe

Committed to Excellence

Interim Principal

Email: bbellipanni@pc.k12.ms.us
Website: https://pcms.pc.k12.ms.us/
Location: 280 West Second Street, Pass Christian, MS, USA
Phone: 228-452-5220
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pcmspirates/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel&eid=ARBum9LgR3kA1q8FfbcJBNWvVJGNOAJ7_aV9zb68sT4gnJp7H1poW74QDlrLm6gqrxhVxVZKAYZOAeLM