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3/4/2010

March 4, 2010

6th Grade Office 439-2015 7^th Grade Office 439-2065 8th Grade Office 439-2064

Main Office 439-2000 Fax Number 439-2001

BERRY MIDDLE SCHOOL

PARENT NEWSLETTER

March 4, 2010 Vol. 15, #450

Spring Holidays are March 15 – 19. Students will return to school on Monday, March 22.

Report Cards: The end of the 3^rd nine weeks is Friday, March 12. Report cards will go home Thursday, March 25.

The service learning fundraiser “Help Heifer, Help Haiti” t-shirt sales began on March 2^nd. So far we have made excellent progress, making over $700 on the first day! The sales will go on until the t-shirts have sold out. We have sold over half the shirts in just two days! House pins made by Berry art students are also being sold for $3 and will continue to be sold until they’re gone. Please consider buying a shirt ($13) or house pin in the mornings on the first floor lobby. Your support is appreciated in helping Heifer, help Haiti.

Science Olympiad: Berry's Science Olympiad team competed in the regional Science Olympiad competition held at the University of Alabama. One student brought home the silver medal with his knowledge of Dynamic Planet and the Bronze medal with his insights of the Solar System. Two other students won the bronze medal with their Bio-processing skills. This is a tough competition and our members did very well.

Math Team Results: Over 1100 students competed at Pizitz last Saturday. Berry/Simmons came away with 5 team trophies and 7 individual trophies.

6th grade:

The Berry team again came in first, beating Pizitz for the 2nd or third time this year! Simmons took 3rd place after Pizitz. Berry and Simmons had the top two ciphering scores as well.

7th grade:

Simmons got the 5th place trophy over a tie-breaker with Berry.

8th grade:

Berry took 3rd place and Simmons 5th place.

Next up: The 8th graders and some 7th graders will be at HHS next weekend, while the 6th graders and some 7th graders will be at Altamont.

Reading and math enrichment: Looking for reading and math enrichment for your upcoming 6th and 7th grader (ages 10-12) this summer? UAB will once again host enrichment programs at Rocky Ridge Elementary. Please contact Dr. Kirkland at 934-8358 (Director, Children's Learning Center) www.ed.uab.edu/cclc

Below is the link for the “Let’s Keep Talking . . . To Keep Kids Drug Free” Tip of the week. This week’s tip is called “Smart Strategies for Tricky Terrain”. http://www2.hoover.k12.al.us/depts/studentassistance/Pages/Let'sKeepTalking.aspx

Berry Singers: Any student interested in being in the 2010-2011 Berry Singers (award winning show choir) needs to see Mrs. Johnson THIS WEEK! The deadline to turn forms in is Tuesday, March 9^th.

Congratulations to 2^nd Semester Choir Class Leaders for 6^th grade.

Cheerleader Parent Meeting: A mandatory parent meeting will be held on Monday, March 8^that 6:00 p.m. for all new cheerleaders. The 7^th grade basketball cheerleaders will meet in Ms. Miller’s room and the 7^th grade football cheerleaders will meet in Mrs. Wingard’s room. All 8^th grade cheerleaders will meet in the cafeteria.

Annual Athletic Physicals: Help Needed!

Spain Park High School Sports Medicine Department along with Champion Sports Medicine and Lemak Sports Medicine will be hosting our annual physicals for Spain Park and Berry Middle School athletes on Friday, May 7, 2010. We will begin at 12:00 p.m. and do our best to end around 3:00 p.m.

Physicals will cost $20.00 per athlete. We will gladly accept cash or check. Sixth and seventh graders need to make checks payable to Berry Middle School. Eighth graders and high school athletes need to make checks payable to Spain Park High School.

While we receive some support from our team physicians and their staff, we cannot make this day happen without support from our parents. We depend on our parents who are physicians, physician assistants, and/or nurse practitioners to help us get through this day. Please check your calendars to see if you will be able to help conduct the heart and lung portion of the physical examination. Any amount of time you can volunteer will be greatly appreciated and beneficial to our program. If you would be willing to help us on this day or know of any fervent volunteers, please contact us at your earliest convenience. We cannot thank you enough for your time and support of Jaguar Athletics.

Erica Farnham, ATC (205) 439-1436 efarnham@hoover.k12.al.us

Morgan McDaniel, ATC (205) 439-1463 mmcdaniel@hoover.k12.al.us

Arielle Mytyk, ATC (205) 439-1462 amytyk@hoover.k12.al.us

Matt Bowden (BMS) (205) 439-2066 mbowden@hoover.k12.al.us

Football: For all 6^th and 7^th grade students interested in playing football for Berry next year, there will be a Mandatory Parent Meeting in the school cafeteria on Thursday, March 25^th, at 6:30 p.m.

Softball: The Lady Jags will play Hewitt at home on Monday, March 8. They will play at Liberty Park on Wednesday, March 10.

Spain Park Football: There will be a football parent meeting on March 9^th at 6:00 p.m. in the theatre at Spain Park for all current 8^th grade (upcoming freshman) students interested in playing football.

Tennis: The tennis teams played at Oak Mountain on Monday. The Boys’ tennis team beat Oak Mountain 7 matches to 2. The Girls’ tennis team beat Oak Mountain 8 matches to 1. Both teams will play Mountain Brook at home this afternoon.

Track and Field Team: The track and field team will compete tomorrow afternoon at Vestavia Hills.

Berry Volleyball: 7^th and 8^th grade volleyball tryouts will be held May 3^rd – 7^th from 3:00-5:00. Any girl trying out must have a current physical and consent form on file at the school. Please make sure your child is picked up no later than 5:15 at the back west side of the school.

Volleyball Tryouts for Spain Park High School will be held April 26^th-30^th from 4:00-5:30 p.m. in the SPHS competition gym. If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to contact Head Coach Paula Dill pdill@hoover.k12.al.us

Girls’ Basketball at Spain Park High School: To any 8^th grade girl interested in trying out for basketball at Spain Park, tryouts will be held the following days from 3:45 – 6:00 p.m. at SPHS: Tuesday, April 13; Thursday, April 15; Monday, April 19; Tuesday, April 20; Thursday, April 22. For more information, contact Coach Mike Chase at mchase@hoover.k12.al.us or 439-1539.

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2/25/2010

February 25, 2010

6th Grade Office 439-2015 7^th Grade Office 439-2065 8th Grade Office 439-2064

Main Office 439-2000 Fax Number 439-2001

BERRY MIDDLE SCHOOL

PARENT NEWSLETTER

February 25, 2010 Vol. 15, #449

With extraordinary Berry Pride, the faculty and staff of Berry Middle School congratulates Dr. Kathy Wheaton for receiving the Hoover City Schools Finley Character Award for 2010. This award recognizes individuals who demonstrate the best character our system has to offer! Dr. Wheaton was nominated by parents, teachers and students whose lives she has touched throughout her tenure with Hoover City Schools. Thank you, Dr. Wheaton, for continuing to look for the greatness in all of us!!

From the service learning team: Berry Service Learning t-shirt sale supporting Haiti and Heifer International will begin on Tuesday, March 2^nd, the first floor lobby. T-shirts will cost $13 with all proceeds going to Heifer International. Along with t-shirt sales, we are also selling Heifer Houses pins that Berry Art classes made for $3. We appreciate your support as we help others in need. See t-shirt design at http://berryservicelearning.wiki.hoover.k12.al.us/

Town Hall Meeting: The Hoover Coalition will be launching its newest ad campaign educating parents and our community on the dangers of hosting underage drinking parties. The Coalition needs your support and would like you to attend this very important town hall meeting on Tuesday, March 2, from 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. at the Hoover Public Library – Plaza. Light refreshments will be provided. Please visit www.hostpays.com for more information on the campaign.

Peer Tutoring: Any 7^th grade student interested in taking Peer Tutoring for their 4^th nine weeks elective can see Mrs. Ferguson to sign up. This is a great class for anyone who thinks they might like to be a teacher. Students who sign up for this class should make As and Bs on their report cards and be interested in helping others with their school work. The deadline for signing up is Friday, March 5.

Congratulations to 2^nd Semester 7th Grade Choir Class Leaders. (Stay tuned in the coming weeks for 6^th Grade.)

Congratulations to Berry’s Debate Team: Mrs. Alison Parker, Debate Team sponsor, just received the results from the 3rd BADL in January, and Berry came in 3rd place! This is the first year for Berry to have a Debate Team and for our students to be placing against schools with well established programs, and often times, debate classes, we should be very proud of their hard work.

Below is the link for the “Let’s Keep Talking . . . To Keep Kids Drug Free” Tip of the week. This week’s tip specifically relates to Teens Drinking with Parents and issues an invitation to next week’s Town Hall meeting hosted by the Hoover Coalition Promoting a Safe & Healthy Community. The tip is applicable for parents of all ages.

http://www2.hoover.k12.al.us/depts/studentassistance/Pages/Let'sKeepTalking.aspx

BMS Author Visit Will Be April 28^TH: We are pleased to announce that award-winning author, Irene Latham, will be speaking at Berry Middle School this spring. Latham’s historical novel, Leaving Gee’s Bend, was inspired by The Quilts of Gee’s Bend art exhibit. Set in 1932 Gee’s Bend, Alabama, it is a heart-touching tale that is sure to inspire our students. The Media Center will sell her book beginning the week prior to her visit. More information will come later. Call the Media Center at 439-2042 if you have questions.

Community Math Nights: The Greater Birmingham Mathematics Partnership (GBMP) will host the following session:

"Multiplication: Will Children Know Their Basic Facts?" from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. at Tarrant Intermediate School TONIGHT.

Learn about the kind of mathematics education that will prepare your child for high school, college and life in the 21st century. Each session features Ruth Parker, Ph.D., dynamic speaker and nationally known educator and CEO, Mathematics Education Collaborative. For more information, contact Jennifer Stoves at 934-3738 or visit www.math.uab.edu/GBMP/parents.htm

Dance Team forms were due in grade level offices by 3:00 p.m. TODAY. No exceptions! Dance Team clinic will be March 1^st- 4^th with tryouts on Friday, March 5^th. Students must have an updated physical and consent form to participate in clinic and tryouts.

Congratulations to the 2010-2011 7th Grade Basketball Cheerleaders.

Congratulations to the 2010-2011 7^th Grade Football Cheerleaders.

Congratulations to the 2010-2011 8^th Grade Basketball Cheerleaders.

Congratulations to the 2010-2011 8^th Grade Football Cheerleaders.

2010-2011 Wrestling: Any 6^th or 7^th grader interested in wrestling next year needs to see Coach Swiderski. He has information on a summer camp that will be held in Hoover on June 1^st to June 3rd. The camp will have two days of technique and skill. The third day will be a tournament. I encourage everyone wanting to participate in wrestling to go to the camp. It is a great opportunity to learn and grow as a wrestler and young adult. We are in the process of looking at getting new singlets and a new wrestling mat. Coach Swiderski is in the process of setting up a fundraiser with Papa John’s. More information will be provided when the fundraiser has begun.

Congratulations to the 2010 Berry Girls Golf Team.

Softball: The softball team will play Oak Mountain at home this afternoon beginning at 4:30 p.m. at Spain Park’s softball field. Come out and support your Lady Jags!

Tennis: Congratulations to the boys and girls tennis teams. The girls’ team opened their season by beating Simmons 9 matches to 0. The boys’ team won their opening match against Simmons by beating them 5 matches to 4. The tennis teams will play at Pizitz Middle School this afternoon. They will play at Oak Mountain on Monday, March 1st and at home against Mountain Brook on Thursday, March 4th.

Track and Field: The track and field team will compete at Hoover High School tomorrow afternoon, February 26^th. They will compete in a Metro South Meet at Hoover High School on Tuesday, March 2^nd.

Football: For all 6^th and 7^th grade students interested in playing football for Berry next year, there will be a Mandatory Parent Meeting in the school cafeteria on Thursday, March 25^th, at 6:30 p.m.

Spain Park Football: There will be a football parent meeting on March 9^th at 6:00 p.m. in the theatre at Spain Park for all current 8^th grade (upcoming freshman) students interested in playing football.

Spain Park Dance Team Try-outs: There will be an information meeting for anyone interested in trying out for the Dazzlers on Monday, March 1^st, at 6:00 p.m. in the SPHS Small Theater. This meeting is mandatory for both students and parents. All try-out information will be distributed at the meeting. If you have any questions, please contact Rachael Matherson at rmatherson@hoover.k12.al.us

Volleyball Tryouts for Spain Park High School will be held April 26^th-30^th from 4:00-5:30 p.m. in the SPHS competition gym. If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to contact Head Coach Paula Dill pdill@hoover.k12.al.us

Girls’ Basketball at Spain Park High School: To any 8^th grade girl interested in trying out for basketball at Spain Park, tryouts will be held the following days from 3:45 – 6:00 p.m. at SPHS: Tuesday, April 13; Thursday, April 15; Monday, April 19; Tuesday, April 20; Thursday, April 22. For more information, contact Coach Mike Chase at mchase@hoover.k12.al.us or 439-1539.

Posted at 10:58 AM by Caver, Susan | Permalink | Email this Post | Comments (0)

2/18/2010

February 18, 2010

6th Grade Office 439-2015 7^th Grade Office 439-2065 8th Grade Office 439-2064

Main Office 439-2000 Fax Number 439-2001

BERRY MIDDLE SCHOOL

PARENT NEWSLETTER

February 18, 2010 Vol. 15, #448

From the service learning team: As you know, many lives have been destroyed by the devastating earthquake in Haiti. Berry’s Service Learning Team is trying to help the suffering in the country by using our annual t-shirt sale fundraiser to raise money. The proceeds from the shirts will go to Heifer International, an organization that helps communities become sustainable. If you or your child is interested in helping those in Haiti, buy a t-shirt beginning February 23^rd. The shirt will cost $13 and be sold in the mornings in the 1^st floor lobby.

Service Learning/Heifer T-Shirt Design Contest: A BIG congratulations to the winners of the Service Learning/Heifer T-Shirt Design Contest. The designs of two students will be combined to create the final design. Congratulations to you both! We know your fellow students will enjoy wearing your artwork to help Haiti.

The question and answer session with Superintendent Andy Craig and members of the Central Office staff scheduled for Monday, February 15^th, at Berry Middle School was cancelled due to inclement weather. We will let you know when the session has been rescheduled.

Congratulations to 2nd Semester 8th Grade Choir Class Leaders. (Stay tuned in the coming weeks for 6^th & 7^th Grade.)

Town Hall Meeting: The Hoover Coalition will be launching its newest ad campaign educating parents and our community on the dangers of hosting underage drinking parties. The Coalition needs your support and would like you to attend this very important town hall meeting on Tuesday, March 2, from 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. at the Hoover Public Library – Plaza. Light refreshments will be provided. Please visit www.hostpays.com for more information on the campaign.

Below is the link for the “Let’s Keep Talking . . . To Keep Kids Drug Free” Tip of the week. This week’s elementary tip is called “ ‘Sweet Talk’ Tools for Families”. The Tip for Teens is entitled “Addiction Runs In Our Family”. http://www2.hoover.k12.al.us/depts/studentassistance/Pages/Let'sKeepTalking.aspx

MathCounts Results: MathCounts competition was held at Berry on Saturday. Berry, Bumpus and Simmons had stiff competition. For the first time ever, Cullman competed with the Hoover schools instead of in a different division. ASFA brought a team of four, all but one of which was either in Algebra 2 or Geometry, while in the 8th grade. The top 3 schools, advancing to state are ASFA, Cullman and Pizitz. Simmons came in 4th, and after a tie-breaker, Bumpus beat Berry out for 5th.

BMS Author Visit Will Be April 28^TH: We are pleased to announce that award-winning author, Irene Latham, will be speaking at Berry Middle School this spring. Latham’s historical novel, Leaving Gee’s Bend, was inspired by The Quilts of Gee’s Bend art exhibit. Set in 1932 Gee’s Bend, Alabama, it is a heart-touching tale that is sure to inspire our students. The Media Center will sell her book beginning the week prior to her visit. More information will come later. Call the Media Center at 439-2042 if you have questions.

Community Math Nights The Greater Birmingham Mathematics Partnership (GBMP) will host the following sessions:

Session #1 "Mathematics and Your Child's Future: The Basics and Beyond" from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. in the Bumpus Middle School Library on Monday, February 22;

Session #3 "How to Help Your Child with Math at Home" from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. in the Clay-Chalkville Middle School Cafeteria on Tuesday, February 23;

Session #6 "Number Talks: Helping Your Child Learn to Reason with Numbers" from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. at the Rudd Middle School Cafeteria on Wednesday, February 24; and

Session #2 "Multiplication: Will Children Know Their Basic Facts?" from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. at Tarrant Intermediate School on Thursday, February 25.

Learn about the kind of mathematics education that will prepare your child for high school, college and life in the 21st century. Each session features Ruth Parker, Ph.D., dynamic speaker and nationally known educator and CEO, Mathematics Education Collaborative. For more information, contact Jennifer Stoves at 934-3738 or visit www.math.uab.edu/GBMP/parents.htm

Dance Team forms are due in grade level offices by 3:00 p.m. Thursday, February 25^th. No exceptions! Dance Team clinic will be March 1^st- 4^th with tryouts on Friday, March 5^th. Students must have an updated physical and consent form to participate in clinic and tryouts.

Volleyball Tryouts for Spain Park High School will be held April 26^th-30^th from 4:00-5:30 p.m. in the SPHS competition gym. If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to contact Head Coach Paula Dill pdill@hoover.k12.al.us

2010-2011 Wrestling: Any 6^th or 7^th grader interested in wrestling next year needs to see Coach Swiderski. He has information on a summer camp that will be held in Hoover on June 1^st to June 3rd. The camp will have two days of technique and skill. The third day will be a tournament. I encourage everyone wanting to participate in wrestling to go to the camp. It is a great opportunity to learn and grow as a wrestler and young adult. We are in the process of looking at getting new singlets and a new wrestling mat.

Softball: The softball game originally scheduled for Monday, February 15, against Bumpus will be played this afternoon at 4:30 at Spain Park High School. The softball team will play in the Thompson Tournament on Friday and Saturday, February 19 – 20. The Lady Jags will play Clay at home on Monday, February 22; Homewood at home on Wednesday, February 24; and Oak Mountain at home on Thursday, February 25. These games start at 4:30 p.m. at Spain Park’s softball field. Come out and support your Lady Jags!

Tennis Team: The tennis team will play their first matches against Simmons on Monday, February 22, at home beginning around 3:30 p.m.

Track and Field: The track and field team will compete at Hoover High School on Friday, February 26, beginning at 4:00 p.m.

Football: For all 6^th and 7^th grade students interested in playing football for Berry next year, there will be a Mandatory Parent Meeting in the school cafeteria on Thursday, March 25^th, at 6:30 p.m.

Spain Park Dance Team Try-outs: There will be an information meeting for anyone interested in trying out for the Dazzlers on Monday, March 1^st, at 6:00 p.m. in the SPHS Small Theater. This meeting is mandatory for both students and parents. All try-out information will be distributed at the meeting. If you have any questions, please contact Rachael Matherson at rmatherson@hoover.k12.al.us

Posted at 11:36 AM by Caver, Susan | Permalink | Email this Post | Comments (0)

2/11/2010

February 11, 2010

6th Grade Office 439-2015 7^th Grade Office 439-2065 8th Grade Office 439-2064

Main Office 439-2000 Fax Number 439-2001

BERRY MIDDLE SCHOOL

PARENT NEWSLETTER

February 11, 2010 Vol. 15, #447

Congratulations to the students who were selected Students of the Month for February.

All-State Choir: Congratulations to the students who were selected to the All-State Choir.

District Choral Festival: Berry’s choirs received superior ratings at the District Choral Festival on February 10. Way to go!

Congratulations to Berry’s Character Award winners for 2009 – 2010.

First Priority: This is an invitation to all 6^th, 7^th and 8^th graders to join us for First Priority this Friday, February 12^th for a new and exciting “Huddle Group” time! 6^th graders will meet in Room 310 and 7^th & 8^th graders will meet in the Bandroom. We look forward to seeing you this Friday!

Make-up Snow Day is Monday, February 15. As you know, schools were closed on Thursday, January 7, in anticipation of inclement weather. February 15 is the identified make-up weather day indicated on our approved school calendar.

You are invited: Mr. Craig and members of Central office staff will be at Berry Middle School for a question and answer session with parents on Monday, February 15^th, at 8:30 a.m. in the library. All parents are invited and encouraged to attend.

Community Math Nights The Greater Birmingham Mathematics Partnership (GBMP) will host the following sessions:

Session #1 "Mathematics and Your Child's Future: The Basics and Beyond" from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. in the Bumpus Middle School Library on Monday, February 22;

Session #3 "How to Help Your Child with Math at Home" from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. in the Clay-Chalkville Middle School Cafeteria on Tuesday, February 23;

Session #6 "Number Talks: Helping Your Child Learn to Reason with Numbers" from 6:30 p.m - 8:30 p.m. at the Rudd Middle School Cafeteria on Wednesday, February 24; and

Session #2 "Multiplication: Will Children Know Their Basic Facts?" from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at Tarrant Intermediate School on Thursday, February 25.

Learn about the kind of mathematics education that will prepare your child for high school, college and life in the 21st century. Each session features Ruth Parker, Ph. D., dynamic speaker and nationally known educator and CEO, Mathematics Education Collaborative. For more information, contact Jennifer Stoves at 934-3738

or visit www.math.uab.edu/GBMP/parents.htm

From the service learning team: As you know, many lives have been destroyed by the devastating earthquake in Haiti. Berry’s Service Learning Team is trying to help the suffering in the country by using our annual t-shirt sale fundraiser to raise money. The proceeds from the shirts will go to Heifer International, an organization that helps communities become sustainable. If you or your child is interested in helping those in Haiti, buy a t-shirt beginning February 23^rd. The shirt will cost $13 and be sold in the mornings in the 1^st floor lobby.

Congratulations to the 2010 Berry softball players. Their first game will be Monday, February 15, at home against Bumpus at 4:30. Berry plays its home games at Spain Park’s softball field. They will play Chelsea in a double header at Chelsea on Tuesday, February 16, beginning at 4:30.

Freshman Spain Park Cheerleader/Mascot Meeting Changed: Due to the basketball playoffs, the mandatory cheerleader/parent meeting has been moved to TONIGHT in the SPHS theater. If you do not attend the meeting, along with a parent/guardian, you will not be able to tryout. All information and necessary paperwork will be given out on February 11^th. Please see Brooke Smith or email bsmith@hoover.k12.al.us with any questions. Thanks!

Dress Code Reminder: #13 in the Dress Code reads, “All students are required to wear their hair in such a manner that it is not considered unkempt, unclean, or impairing vision. Students are not to wear hair dyed in unusual colors, spiked hair, shaven head areas, shaven head patterns (numbers, names, symbols, designs, etc.)” This includes eyebrows.

Volleyball Tryouts for Spain Park High School will be held on April 26^th-30^th from 4:00 p.m.-5:30 p.m. in the SPHS competition gym. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact Head Coach Paula Dill pdill@hoover.k12.al.us

2010-2011 Wrestling: Any 6^th or 7^th grader interested in wrestling next year needs to see Coach Swiderski. He has information on a summer camp that will be held in Hoover on June 1^st to June 3rd. The camp will have two days of technique and skill. The third day will be a tournament. I encourage everyone wanting to participate in wrestling to go to the camp. It is a great opportunity to learn and grow as a wrestler and young adult. We are in the process of looking at getting new singlets and a new wrestling mat. These items are costly. We are accepting any donations people want to make to our wrestling program. If you would like to make a donation, please do so we can continue to build and have a successful program.

Tennis Team: The tennis team will play their first matches against Simmons on Monday, February 22, at home beginning around 3:30 p.m.

Track and Field: The track and field team will compete at Hoover High School on Friday, February 26, beginning at 4:00 p.m.

Posted at 3:44 PM by Caver, Susan | Permalink | Email this Post | Comments (0)

2/4/2010

February 4, 2010

6th Grade Office 439-2015 7^th Grade Office 439-2065 8th Grade Office 439-2064

Main Office 439-2000 Fax Number 439-2001

BERRY MIDDLE SCHOOL

PARENT NEWSLETTER

February 4, 2010 Vol. 15, #446

Progress Reports will go home with students on February 8^th.

Make-up Snow Day is Monday, February 15. As you know, schools were closed on Thursday, January 7, in anticipation of inclement weather. February 15 is the identified make-up weather day indicated on our approved school calendar.

Open House will be held on Tuesday, February 9^th from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. in the gym. Not only will you have an opportunity to see what your students have been doing in their academic classes, you will have an opportunity to see this year’s Berry Singers group.

A special thanks to Carlissa Strong for being our January career speaker. Ms. Strong works for Compass Bank and shared with the students not only her knowledge regarding the banking industry, but invaluable information about preparing for the workforce. Our next career sessions are scheduled for Friday, February 26.

From the service learning team: As you know, many lives have been destroyed by the devastating earthquake in Haiti. Berry’s Service Learning Team is trying to help the suffering in the country by using our annual t-shirt sale fundraiser to raise money. The proceeds from the shirts will go to Heifer International, an organization that helps communities become sustainable. If you or your child is interested in helping those in Haiti, buy a t-shirt beginning February 23^rd. The shirt will cost $13 and be sold in the mornings in the 1^st floor lobby.

Below is the “Let’s Keep Talking . . . To Keep Kids Drug Free” Tip of the week. This parent tip encourages parents to make a promise or pledge to keep talking with their child and/or teen, and to look for specific opportunities to listen to their kids -- and to "be there" when their child wants to talk.

http://www2.hoover.k12.al.us/depts/studentassistance/Pages/Let'sKeepTalking.aspx

Congratulations to the students who were selected to the 2010 Jaguar Tennis Teams.

Cheerleading tryouts will be held Tuesday, February 16 – Friday, February 19. A mandatory parent meeting for all girls trying out will be held TONIGHT at 6:00 p.m. in the cafeteria. Students must have an updated physical and consent form to tryout.

Dance Team information meeting will be held on Monday, February 8^th , at 6:00 p.m. in the library. Dance Team clinic will be March 1^st-4^th with tryouts on Friday, March 5^th. Students must have an updated physical and consent form to participate in clinic and tryouts.

Freshman Spain Park Cheerleader/Mascot Meeting Changed: Due to the basketball playoffs, the mandatory cheerleader/parent meeting has been moved to THURSDAY FEBRUARY 11^TH in the SPHS theater.

If you do not attend the meeting, along with a parent/guardian, you will not be able to tryout. All information and necessary paperwork will be given out on February 11^th. Please see Brooke Smith or email bsmith@hoover.k12.al.us with any questions. Thanks!

Boys Golf Parent Meeting - Attention all 7^th and 8^th grade boys interested in trying out for the golf team. There will be a parent meeting on February 9^th at 6:27 p.m. in the lunch room prior to open house.

Girls Golf Parent Meeting will be held Tuesday, February 9th at 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria, just before open house. A parent must attend the meeting to get important information about upcoming tryouts and details about the season. All 7^th or 8^th grade girls interested in playing this year need to come by and see Coach Clark (room 203) ASAP.

Wrestling: Students who are interested in wrestling next year should see Coach Swiderski about summer camp information. He has flyers for a three-day camp at the beginning of June in Hoover.

Berry Middle School

February 2010

The Power of the ‘Questioning’ Strategy:

Rather than fact questions, children should be asked interpretive questions that require creative responses from them. Parents, ask your child open-ended questions that welcome unexpected, divergent answers that extend the topic.

Factual questions determine the students’ comprehension.
Interpretive questions develop deeper understanding.
Divergent questions encourage the reader to ‘think’ outside the story.
Evaluative questions challenge the child to make judgments about the text/story.

Examples of these questions:

ü Factual: What happened?

ü Interpretive: Why did it happen?

ü Divergent: What if something else had happened?

ü Evaluative: What did you think about what happened? Why do you think so?

These openings provide only a skeletal framework to start your child thinking.

Source: Some of My Best Friends Are Books: A Guide for Parents, Teachers, Librarians, and Counselors by Judith Wynn Halsted

Independent Reading: Helping Your Child to Choose Books That Challenge

Parents, you can help your child learn to make good choices when choosing his/her independent reading novel. The old saying, “It doesn’t matter what they read as long as they are reading,” is an attitude we cannot afford to use with our children. If we do, we do them a great disservice. They need guidance in choosing books with substance and literary value. Children need to read books that appeal to their intellectual and emotional development.

Books that appeal to a child’s intellectual development typically have important themes that present the larger picture; themes that deal with elements of heroism, moral issues or social issues, and relationships. Examples of these include The Phantom Tollbooth, A String in the Harp, Call It Courage, The Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, and the Slake’s Limbo.

Reference Books About Children’s Literature:

Best Books for Children: Preschool through Grade 6 by John Gillespie (1998)

Best Books for Junior High Readers by John Gillespie (1991)

Fantasy Literature for Children and Young Adults by R. N. Lynn (1994)

Best Books for Young Adults by Betty Carter (2000)

Notice of Nondiscrimination for all Mass-Distributed Publications

Effective July 2009

EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

(Board policy, 6.6) No student will be unlawfully excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination in any program or activity offered or sponsored by the Board on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, disability, creed, national origin, sex, immigrant or migrant status, non-English speaking ability, or homeless status. All career and technical education opportunities are offered to all students regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability.

Dr. Barbara Mayer, IDEA Coordinator Hoover City Schools

Dr. Tara Ferguson, Section 504 Coordinator 2810 Metropolitan Way

Dr. Deborah Camp, Title II Coordinator (grades K – 5) Hoover, AL 35243

Dr. Ron Dodson, Title II Coordinator (grades 6 – 12) (205) 439-1000

Dr. Barbara Mayer, Title III Coordinator

Carol Barber, Title IX Coordinator

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1/28/2010

January 28, 2010

6th Grade Office 439-2015 7^th Grade Office 439-2065 8th Grade Office 439-2064

Main Office 439-2000 Fax Number 439-2001

BERRY MIDDLE SCHOOL

PARENT NEWSLETTER

January 28, 2010 Vol. 15, #445

VERY IMPORTANT: Spain Park High School Curriculum Fair/8^th Grade Parent Night will be held at SPHS TONIGHT from 6:00-8:00 p.m. All incoming 9^th grade parents and students are strongly encouraged to attend. Incoming 9th grade parents will receive their course selection packets. Two incoming freshmen meetings will be held in the theater to discuss course selection and other relevant procedures.

From 6:00 -7:00 p.m., students with last names beginning with A - J will gather in the Theater to hear the course selection presentation while students with last names beginning with K - Z will attend the Curriculum Fair in the cafeteria and Band room. From 7-8 pm, the two groups will switch.

The Curriculum Fair consists of booths for elective courses being arranged in the cafeteria with representatives available to answer questions regarding elective courses. Teachers of Pre-AP and AP courses will be available in the band room. The English and Math Department Chairs will be available to answer department specific questions. In addition, guidance counselors will be available to answer general questions.

Congratulations to the Berry Debaters: Each one of our teams won at least one of their two matches. Congratulations to Alison Parker, Berry’s Debate Coach!

Band News: On Friday, January 29, several band students will be participating in the District IV Honor Band. This is one of the results of their audition for All State on Saturday, January 16.

Next week, February 4-6, several band students will be participating in the Auburn Honor Band at Auburn University.

On April 15-17, several band students will be participating in the All State Festival at Auburn.

Also, the 7^th and 8^th Grade Bands’ Spring Trip to Atlanta is April 9-10. Those going will miss most of the day on Friday, April 9. The 6^th Grade Band Spring Trip to Atlanta is May 1 (This is a Saturday, so students will not miss school.)

Make-up Snow Day is Monday, February 15. As you know, schools were closed on Thursday, January 7, in anticipation of inclement weather. February 15 is the identified make-up weather day indicated on our approved school calendar.

Open House will be held on Tuesday, February 9^th from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. in the gym.

Lost and Found: Please place students’ names in jackets, so that if lost, they can be easily returned.

Below is the “Let’s Keep Talking . . . To Keep Kids Drug Free” Tip of the week for this week. This parent tip is about helping children and teens understand Anger vs. Frustration, and how parents can encourage children and teens to express anger and other emotions in a healthy way. http://www2.hoover.k12.al.us/depts/studentassistance/Pages/Let'sKeepTalking.aspx

Results of Muscle Shoals Math Team Tournament held last weekend. 6th grade: Out of over 300 students competing in 6th grade, 4 of them had 100s on the test; 3 of those were ours! Berry came in 1st place, Pizitz 2nd, and Simmons 3rd. In ciphering, Simmons had the top score, Pizitz 2nd and Berry 3rd.

7th grade: Only one person made 100, and it was a SMS former student! Pizitz dominated this group, taking 1st place. Berry took 4th and Simmons 5th.

8th grade: Again Pizitz won, with Berry in 2nd place and Simmons in 4th.

Next week: ASFA. On Feb 13, Berry will host the MathCounts competition.

Tennis Tryouts for 7^th and 8^th grade students will begin Monday, February 1^st from 3:15 – 5:15 p.m. at Berry. Please see Coach Bowden if you have not signed up and received a tennis packet. Players must have an updated physical and consent to tryout.

Cheerleading tryouts will be held Tuesday, February 15 – Friday, February 19. A mandatory parent meeting for all girls trying out will be held February 4^th at 6:00 p.m. in the cafeteria. Students must have an updated physical and consent form to tryout.

Spain Park Cheerleader/Mascot Tryouts for the 2010-2011 season are scheduled for March 12, 2010. Anyone interested should attend a MANDATORY parent meeting February 8 at 6:00 p.m. in the SPHS theater. If you do not attend the meeting, along with your parents, you will not be able to tryout. All information and necessary paperwork will be given out on February 8th. Please see Brooke Smith or email bsmith@hoover.k12.al.us with any questions. Thanks!

Berry 2010 Softball Tryouts will be held for 7th and 8th grade girls Monday, February 1st and Tuesday, February 2nd from 3:30-5:00 p.m. at the Spain Park High School softball field. Girls will need to meet in the main lobby Monday and Tuesday immediately after school to walk down to the high school field together. All participants must a have a current consent form and physical on file prior to trying out. Please bring cleats and equipment (glove, bat, batting helmet, etc.) for outdoors and tennis shoes for indoors in case of rain. A sign up sheet will be posted outside the girls’ locker room and outside Coach Carey's classroom. You may sign up at either location. Please contact Coach Carey (ccarey@hoover.k12.al.us) if you have any questions.

Boys Golf Parent Meeting - Attention all 7^th and 8^th grade boys interested in trying out for the golf team. There will be a parent meeting on February 9^th at 6:27 p.m. in the lunch room prior to open house.

Girls Golf Parent Meeting will be held Tuesday, February 9th at 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria, just before open house. A parent must attend the meeting to get important information about upcoming tryouts and details about the season. All 7^th or 8^th grade girls interested in playing this year need to come by and see Coach Clark (room 203) ASAP.

Wrestling: There will be a wrestling camp this summer for 7^th and 8^th grade boys interested in wrestling next school year. They need to see Coach Swiderski in order to get the information. Each child interested in wrestling will need to provide Coach Swiderski with a phone number and e-mail address. Information regarding the camp as well as next season will be sent through e-mail or a phone call.

Notice of Nondiscrimination for all Mass-Distributed Publications

Effective July 2009

EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

(Board policy, 6.6) No student will be unlawfully excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination in any program or activity offered or sponsored by the Board on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, disability, creed, national origin, sex, immigrant or migrant status, non-English speaking ability, or homeless status. All career and technical education opportunities are offered to all students regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability.

Dr. Barbara Mayer, IDEA Coordinator Hoover City Schools

Dr. Tara Ferguson, Section 504 Coordinator 2810 Metropolitan Way

Dr. Deborah Camp, Title II Coordinator (grades K – 5) Hoover, AL 35243

Dr. Ron Dodson, Title II Coordinator (grades 6 – 12) (205) 439-1000

Dr. Barbara Mayer, Title III Coordinator

Carol Barber, Title IX Coordinator

Posted at 10:14 AM by Caver, Susan | Permalink | Email this Post | Comments (0)

1/21/2010

January 21, 2010

6th Grade Office 439-2015 7^th Grade Office 439-2065 8th Grade Office 439-2064

Main Office 439-2000 Fax Number 439-2001

BERRY MIDDLE SCHOOL

PARENT NEWSLETTER

January 21, 2009 Vol. 15, #444

Hope Chest: A special thanks to those who contributed to the Hope Chest before the holidays. Approximately $7000.00 was collected and you helped to provide Christmas to more than 50 children. May you be blessed in the New Year.

The Track and Field parent meeting will be held TONIGHT at 6:00 p.m. in the cafeteria. Please be prepared to order spirit packs at this time. If you have questions, please contact Coach Streeter at 439-2082.

Winter Awards Assemblies will be held TOMORROW, Friday, January 22, in the gym. We would like to invite you to attend. The 8^th grade assembly will be held at 8:00 a.m. The 6^th grade assembly will be held at 9:50 a.m., and the 7^th grade assembly will be held at 1:15 p.m. To alleviate possible conflicts during morning carpool drop off, we are asking parents who plan to attend the 8^th grade assembly (8:00 a.m.) to enter the parking lot at the four-way stop on the west side of the building; park in the parking lot on the west side, (opposite carpool) and enter the building by the gym.

Attention Parents of 7^th and 8^th Grade Band Students: The field trip for the MPA Clinic scheduled for Tuesday, January 26, will be postponed until a later date.

VERY IMPORTANT: Spain Park High School Curriculum Fair/8^th Grade Parent Night will be held at SPHS on January 28, 2010 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. All incoming 8^th grade parents and students are strongly encouraged to attend. Incoming 9th grade parents will receive their course selection packets. Two incoming freshmen meetings will be held in the theater to discuss course selection and other relevant procedures.

From 6:00 -7:00 p.m., students with the last name beginning with A - J will gather in the Theater to hear the course selection presentation while students with the last name beginning with K - Z will attend the Curriculum Fair in the cafeteria and Band room. From 7-8 pm, the two groups will switch.

The Curriculum Fair consists of booths for elective courses being arranged in the cafeteria with representatives available to answer questions regarding elective courses. Teachers of Pre-AP and AP courses will be available in the band room. The English and Math Department Chairs will be available to answer department specific questions. In addition, guidance counselors will be available to answer general questions.

Open House will be held on Tuesday, February 9^th from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. in the gym.

Have you seen the “portable traffic guide” posts that they have at banks or stores? We are hoping you know of a business that no longer uses them and they could donate some to the Media Center. These posts can be expensive and we were hoping there might be a business that may be able to help us out. Please call the Media Center if you have any helpful information at 439-2042.

Reminder: Please remember that students are not to deliver invitations, thank you notes, flyers, bring food, presents, or have these items delivered to other students at school. (Page 10 under “Disruptions During the School Day” in the Student Handbook located in your child’s agenda.)

Below is the “Let’s Keep Talking . . . To Keep Kids Drug Free” Tip of the week for this week. The Elementary Tip advises that children hear more than they will admit, and the Tip for Teens helps parents to encourage healthy risk taking.

http://www2.hoover.k12.al.us/depts/studentassistance/Pages/Let'sKeepTalking.aspx

S.A.F.E. Inc. is coming to Berry Middle School Physical Education Classes. They will be with the girls classes January 26^th, 27^th,and 28^th and with the boys classes February 2^nd, 3^rd, and 4^th. The goal of this program is to encourage students to set clear life goals and to make healthy decisions that will build positive self-esteem. Your child will be bringing home more information this week. Please sign and have your child return the form to their physical education teacher no later than Monday January 25^th. Copies of the material are in the library for your review if you have any questions.

Email addresses: We are still missing a number of parent email addresses. We are requesting parents to email their child’s grade level secretary so we will have accurate email addresses. Rosalie Pollini is the 6^th grade secretary. Her email address is rpollini@hoover.k12.al.us Fran Stainback is the 7^th grade secretary. Her email address is fstainback@hoover.k12.al.us Celia Hooks is the 8^th grade secretary. Her email address is chooks@hoover.k12.al.us We really appreciate your help in this endeavor.

To all Latino Issuses Partnership participants: Spanish-speaking taxpayers earning less than $48,000 should mark their calendars. Los Impuestos y Usted airing over the Telemundo network on Sunday, January 24, 2010, will tell them about an important tax credit that could put up to $5,600 or more into their pockets. The Earned Income Tax Credit – or EITC – can be a financial boost for working people hit by hard economic times. But, taxpayers must file federal income tax returns and claim the credit, even if they aren’t required to file, to receive the money. New EITC provisions mean even more money for larger families. IRS estimates one in four eligible taxpayers could miss out simply because they don't check it out. Please help us ensure your clients aren’t among those missing out. Los Impuestos y Usted is currently scheduled to air at: 3:00pm Eastern, 2:00pm Central, 2:00pm Mountain, 3:00pm Pacific. Taxpayers should check their local program listings for more information. EITC has been making the lives of working people a little easier for 35 years.

H1N1 packets were sent home in December 2009. The H1N1 clinic at Berry has been scheduled for February 1^st for students who returned consent forms. Contact Kelly Ferrell, RN at 439-2072 for more information.

Tennis Tryouts for all interested 7^th and 8^th grade students will be February 1 – February 3rd. If you did not attend the parent meeting, please see Coach Bowden in room 218 to sign up and get a tennis packet.

Cheerleading tryouts will be held Tuesday, February 15 – Friday, February 19. A mandatory parent meeting for all girls trying out will be held February 4^th at 6:00 p.m. in the cafeteria.

Berry 2010 Softball Tryouts will be held for 7th and 8th grade girls Monday, February 1st and Tuesday, February 2nd from 3:30-5:00 p.m. at the Spain Park High School softball field. Girls will need to meet in the main lobby Monday and Tuesday immediately after school to walk down to the high school field together. All participants must a have a current consent form and physical on file prior to trying out. Please bring cleats and equipment (glove, bat, batting helmet, etc.) for outdoors and tennis shoes for indoors in case of rain. A sign up sheet will be posted outside the girls’ locker room and outside Coach Carey's classroom. You may sign up at either location. Please contact Coach Carey (ccarey@hoover.k12.al.us) if you have any questions.

Enjoy the City Coupon Books: The Spain Park Diamond Club is selling “Enjoy the City” coupon books. Proceeds from the fundraiser will go toward the Spain Park High School and Berry Middle School softball programs. The coupon books are loaded with buy one get one frees, numerous restaurant discounts, grocery store coupons, and more. The majority of the coupons expire December, 2010. If you are interested in purchasing a coupon book for $20.00, please email Ginger Knight at emjullimited@bellsouth.net or Coach Carey at ccarey@hoover.k12.al.us.

Boys Golf Parent Meeting - Attention all 7^th and 8^th grade boys interested in trying out for the golf team. There will be a parent meeting on February 9^th at 6:27 p.m. in the lunch room prior to open house.

Girls Golf Parent Meeting will be held Tuesday, February 9th at 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria, just before open house. A parent must attend the meeting to get important information about upcoming tryouts and details about the season. All 7^th or 8^th grade girls interested in playing this year need to come by and see Coach Clark (room 203) ASAP.

Dance Team: Congratulations to the dance team for placing 3^rd at the American All-star competition held at Samford University on Saturday, January 16^th.

Boys’ Basketball: The Boys’ basketball teams will play at Oak Mountain this afternoon. They will play Simmons at home on Monday, January 25^th; 7^th grade plays at 4:30 and 8^th grade plays at 5:45. The 7^th grade boys will play in a tournament at Liberty Park and the 8^th grade boys will play in a tournament at Berry beginning Wednesday, January 27 – Saturday, January 30.

Girls’ Basketball: The Girls’ basketball teams will play Oak Mountain at home this afternoon; 8^th grade plays at 4:30 and 7^th grade plays at 5:45. They will play at Simmons on Monday, January 25^th; 7^th grade plays at 4:30 and 8^th grade plays at 5:45. The 7^th grade girls will play in a tournament at Oak Mountain Middle School and the 8^th grade girls will play in a tournament at Thompson Middle School Wednesday, January 27 – Saturday, January 30.

Wrestling: There will be wrestling matches at Spain Park this evening beginning at 6:00. They will participate in the Metro South Championship Tournament at the Hoover Freshman Campus January 29 and 30.

Notice of Nondiscrimination for all Mass-Distributed Publications

Effective July 2009

EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

(Board policy, 6.6) No student will be unlawfully excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination in any program or activity offered or sponsored by the Board on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, disability, creed, national origin, sex, immigrant or migrant status, non-English speaking ability, or homeless status. All career and technical education opportunities are offered to all students regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability.

Dr. Barbara Mayer, IDEA Coordinator Hoover City Schools

Dr. Tara Ferguson, Section 504 Coordinator 2810 Metropolitan Way

Dr. Deborah Camp, Title II Coordinator (grades K – 5) Hoover, AL 35243

Dr. Ron Dodson, Title II Coordinator (grades 6 – 12) (205) 439-1000

Dr. Barbara Mayer, Title III Coordinator

Carol Barber, Title IX Coordinator

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1/14/2010

January 14, 2010

6th Grade Office 439-2015 7^th Grade Office 439-2065 8th Grade Office 439-2064

Main Office 439-2000 Fax Number 439-2001

BERRY MIDDLE SCHOOL

PARENT NEWSLETTER

January 14, 2009 Vol. 15, #443

Schools and Offices will be closed on Monday, January 18, in observance of Martin Luther King’s birthday.

Congratulations to the students who were selected Students of the Month for January.

Winter Awards Assemblies will be held Friday, January 22, in the gym. We would like to invite you to attend. The 8^th grade assembly will be held at 8:00 a.m. The 6^th grade assembly will be held at 9:50 a.m., and the 7^th grade assembly will be held at 1:15 p.m. To alleviate possible conflicts during morning carpool drop off, we are asking parents who plan to attend the 8^th grade assembly (8:00 a.m.) to park in the parking lot on the west side of the building (opposite carpool) and enter the building by the gym.

Berry Middle School Spelling Bee: The students were fantastic spellers again this year. Our school winner and runner-up will be recognized at the Hoover Spelling Bee on Tuesday, January 26, at 9:00 a.m. at Hoover High School. Our winner will compete against the winners from Bumpus, Simmons, and the Hoover elementary schools. Congratulations and good luck!

VERY IMPORTANT: Spain Park High School Parent/Student Registration Meeting for next year’s freshmen will be held Thursday, January 28, at 6:00 p.m. at Spain Park High School Auditorium. EVERY CURRENT 8^TH GRADER AND AT LEAST ONE PARENT SHOULD ATTEND! Course selection packets will be given out that night.

H1N1 packets were sent home in December 2009. The H1N1 clinic at Berry has been scheduled for February 1^st for students who returned consent forms. Contact Kelly Ferrell, RN at 439-2072 for more information.

Have you seen the “portable traffic guide” posts that they have at banks or stores? We are hoping you know of a business that no longer uses them and they could donate some to the Media Center. These posts can be expensive and we were hoping there might be a business that may be able to help us out. Please call the Media Center if you have any helpful information at 439-2042.

Yearbook staff is looking for pictures of girls’ and boys’ basketball, wrestling, and any other pictures you may have taken at Berry events. If you would like to share your photos please e-mail them to lrhinehart@hoover.k12.al.us

Safe-House Presentations: Kathy Holsombeck, Prevention Educator for Safe-House of Shelby County, will be spending a day with each 6^th grade team presenting a lesson on Healthy Relationships. The presentation will cover friendships, communication skills, bullying/harassment, and abuse. We hope that through education we can encourage healthy relationships among friends and reduce the incidences of violence. We look forward to her visit.

Congratulations to the dance team for placing 3^rd in the high kick category and 8^th in the hip hop category during the 2010 Alabama Dance Championship.

Ecology Club: We are still collecting bottle caps, the type that screw on to bottles, such as coke or shampoo bottle caps. Thanks for recycling!!!!!!

Welcome to our new students who enrolled last week: Upon enrollment you were given an Agenda with School Rules as well as a Code Of Conduct book. Each one has an acknowledgment for the student and parent to sign. Please return the forms to your grade level office.

This link is for the first “Let’s Keep Talking . . . To Keep Kids Drug Free” Tip of the week for 2010! This parent tip is about making New Years Goals and Plans to help a child make healthy and positive choices.

http://www2.hoover.k12.al.us/depts/studentassistance/Pages/Let'sKeepTalking.aspx

Email addresses: We are still missing a number of parent email addresses. We are requesting parents to email their child’s grade level secretary so we will have accurate email addresses. Rosalie Pollini is the 6^th grade secretary. Her email address is rpollini@hoover.k12.al.us Fran Stainback is the 7^th grade secretary. Her email address is fstainback@hoover.k12.al.us Celia Hooks is the 8^th grade secretary. Her email address is chooks@hoover.k12.al.us We really appreciate your help in this endeavor.

Reminder: If your child is absent from school, please call your child’s grade level office and send a note explaining their absence the day they return to school.

To all Latino Issuses Partnership participants: Spanish-speaking taxpayers earning less than $48,000 should mark their calendars. Los Impuestos y Usted airing over the Telemundo network on Sunday, January 24, 2010, will tell them about an important tax credit that could put up to $5,600 or more into their pockets. The Earned Income Tax Credit – or EITC – can be a financial boost for working people hit by hard economic times. But, taxpayers must file federal income tax returns and claim the credit, even if they aren’t required to file, to receive the money. New EITC provisions mean even more money for larger families. IRS estimates one in four eligible taxpayers could miss out simply because they don't check it out. Please help us ensure your clients aren’t among those missing out. Los Impuestos y Usted is currently scheduled to air at: 3:00pm Eastern, 2:00pm Central, 2:00pm Mountain, 3:00pm Pacific. Taxpayers should check their local program listings for more information. EITC has been making the lives of working people a little easier for 35 years.

Basketball: The 7^th grade girls and boys play at Bumpus on Tuesday, January 19. 8^th grade boys and girls will play at Berry on January 19. The boys will play at Oak Mountain on Thursday, January 21^st; 7^th grade plays at 4:30 and 8^th grade plays at 5:45. The girls will play Oak Mountain at Berry on Thursday, January 21^st; 8^th grade plays at 4:30 and 7^th grade plays at 5:45.

Cheerleading tryouts will be held Tuesday, February 15 – Friday, February 19. A mandatory parent meeting for all girls trying out will be held February 4^th at 6:00 p.m. in the cafeteria.

The Track and Field parent meeting will be held Thursday, January 21^st at 6:00 p.m. in the cafeteria. Please be prepared to order spirit packs at this time. If you have questions, please contact Coach Streeter at 439-2082.

Berry 2010 Softball Tryouts will be held for 7th and 8th grade girls Monday, February 1st and Tuesday, February 2nd from 3:30-5:00 p.m. at the Spain Park High School softball field. Girls will need to meet in the main lobby Monday and Tuesday immediately after school to walk down to the high school field together. All participants must a have a current consent form and physical on file prior to trying out. Please bring cleats and equipment (glove, bat, batting helmet, etc.) for outdoors and tennis shoes for indoors in case of rain. A sign up sheet will be posted outside the girls’ locker room and outside Coach Carey's classroom. You may sign up at either location. Please contact Coach Carey (ccarey@hoover.k12.al.us) if you have any questions.

The annual Junior World Cup Soccer Clinic will be held at Spain Park High School on Monday, January 18th. The clinic offers boys and girls, ages 5-13, the opportunity to improve their soccer skills, no matter what their current ability--beginners are encouraged to attend as well. Campers will receive individual attention from selected members of the Spain Park girls’ (state champions!) and boys’ teams, under the direction of varsity coaches, Joe Carter, Matt Hall and Robert Starr. This is a great alternative for families looking for an activity for their students who are out of school for the MLK holiday. The clinic is $75 per camper ($10 discount for each additional family member) and runs from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. In addition to great instruction in soccer, each camper receives a new soccer ball, a long-sleeve t-shirt and lunch. Advance registration is strongly recommended because the camp has been growing in popularity each year. Registration forms may be downloaded from the Spain Park Soccer website (http://www.spainparksoccer.com/assets/jr%20world%20cup%20registration%20download.pdf), and must be received with payment by TOMORROW, January 15th. If you have questions, please e-mail JaguarSoccer@gmail.com.

Enjoy the City Coupon Books: The Spain Park Diamond Club is selling “Enjoy the City” coupon books. Proceeds from the fundraiser will go toward the Spain Park High School and Berry Middle School softball programs. The coupon books are loaded with buy one get one frees, numerous restaurant discounts, grocery store coupons, and more. The majority of the coupons expire December, 2010. If you are interested in purchasing a coupon book for $20.00, please email Ginger Knight at emjullimited@bellsouth.net or Coach Carey at ccarey@hoover.k12.al.us.

Swim Birmingham YMCA is now accepting registrations for the spring session. The spring session is from 1/4/10-5/14/10. Swim Birmingham YMCA is a year-round swim team offering training for beginners through national level competitive swimmers. Registrations are accepted either online at www.ymcabham.org or you may register at any participating branch of the Birmingham YMCA. For additional information regarding swimming with Swim Birmingham YMCA, contact Susan Becker or Coach Frank Myers at 205-981-0144 or go to www.swimsby.com

CHILD FIND

Help Hoover City Schools locate, identify, and evaluate Hoover residents from birth to age 21 who have disabilities or who are suspected of having disabilities. Contact the Department of Instructional Support Services for Hoover City Schools at (205) 439-1051.

BUILDING BASED STUDENT SUPPORT TEAM OR BBSST

In keeping with the Hoover City Schools belief that every student should be provided with every opportunity to be successful, Berry Middle School provides a Building Based Student Support Team (BBSST) designed to assist students with a wide range of issues which may develop during the course of a school career. BBSST seeks to identify and work with students who may have difficulties with school, family, peers, or everyday life experiences and to seek services which can assist students in achieving their educational and person potential. Difficulties for which students may receive assistance include, but are not limited to, depression, grades, family issues, substance abuse, domestic violence, etc. A faculty member, a student, or a parent may make referrals to BBSST. If you are interested in these services, please contact your child’s counselor.

Notice of Nondiscrimination for all Mass-Distributed Publications

Effective July 2009

EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

(Board policy, 6.6) No student will be unlawfully excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination in any program or activity offered or sponsored by the Board on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, disability, creed, national origin, sex, immigrant or migrant status, non-English speaking ability, or homeless status. All career and technical education opportunities are offered to all students regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability.

Dr. Barbara Mayer, IDEA Coordinator Hoover City Schools

Dr. Tara Ferguson, Section 504 Coordinator 2810 Metropolitan Way

Dr. Deborah Camp, Title II Coordinator (grades K – 5) Hoover, AL 35243

Dr. Ron Dodson, Title II Coordinator (grades 6 – 12) (205) 439-1000

Dr. Barbara Mayer, Title III Coordinator

Carol Barber, Title IX Coordinator

BUILDING READERS

January 2010

Book Picks:

The following books were recommended by some of our Berry students:

Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer (www.stepheniemeyer.com)

The Angel Experiment by James Patterson

Percy Jackson series by Rick Riordan

The Third Eye and Stranger With My Face by Lois Duncan

Hoops by Walter Dean Myers

Motivate with Magazines!

Is your child a reluctant reader? Why not introduce him/her to the world of magazines? They’re

Attention-grabbing: The color and photos are a great way to entice your youngster to open a magazine and read.

Short: A quick read on a topic your child likes isn’t overwhelming and will keep him coming back for more.

Full of variety: One magazine may have many different types of articles, pictures, puzzles, and games that will hook any child.

Made for sharing: When your youngster finds an interesting bit of information, he’s apt to share it with his friends and family.

*Note: Whatver your child likes, there is probably a magazine for him. Soccer, history, science,---the list is endless! Check wth our librarian, Irene Jones, for details. J

Family Fun: Playing with Words

Bluff-ulary

This bluffing game is a fun way for children to use their imaginations---and learn their vocabulary words.

1. Write each vocabulary word and its definition on separate index cards.

2. Place the first word faceup in the middle of the table.

3. Ask players to write a made-up definition on a black index card. Note: They should make the definition sound as realistic as possible.

4. Shuffle the cards (including the card with the correct definition).

5. Read them aloud.

Players score a point for choosing the correct meaning. They also score a point when someone else chooses the definition they made up.

6. Repeat for each vocabulary word. The player with the most points wins. J

Posted at 3:26 PM by Caver, Susan | Permalink | Email this Post | Comments (0)

12/17/2009

December 17, 2009

6th Grade Office 439-2015 7^th Grade Office 439-2065 8th Grade Office 439-2064

Main Office 439-2000 Fax Number 439-2001

BERRY MIDDLE SCHOOL

PARENT NEWSLETTER

December 17, 2009 Vol. 15, #442

The H1N1 packets containing the consent form were given out on Monday December 14, 2009. Please note that the consent form in the packets is different from the form that was signed and submitted in October. The form in October, as the letter stated, was a letter of intent for a head count so we would know the number of vaccines to order. The packets contain information on the H1N1 vaccine and the consent. Please return both copies of the consent. One will be for the ADPH and one for the school. If you have any further questions, please notify Kelly Ferrell, school nurse at kferrell@hoover.k12.al.us Again, the form completed in October was NOT the consent form. If you plan on your child receiving the vaccination, please submit the consent by Thursday, December 17. Thank you.

Geography Bee: This fall Berry held the Geography Bee, which is part of the National Geographic Society‘s annual competition for students in grades 5-8. The questions test students’ knowledge of geography with some history and current events also mixed in. All students participated through their social studies classes. Every Berry student answered the Preliminary Round questions. The top 55 students in terms of most correct answers advanced to the Final Round of competition with 40 actually participating. The Final Round was held December 15^th after school in the Media Center. In the Final Round students were eliminated after their second incorrect answer until there were only two remaining students. It took many questions given to a student on Team 6-2 and Team 8-1 before one of them was eliminated and the other one qualified for the Championship Round. These two students competed in the Championship Round with the one who had the most correct answers for the final three questions emerging as the school winner and the other student as first runner-up. This year a sixth grader was the school winner and an 8th grader was the runner-up. Congratulations to all who participated and especially to our winner who will next take a qualifying written test to determine if he is eligible to compete in the State Geography Bee to be held April 9, 2010.

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is internationally recognized for its pioneering work in finding cures and saving children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases. The Math-A-Thon is a volunteer-based fundraising program for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The program includes a free math curriculum supplement for grades K-8 that students complete after obtaining sponsorships from family and friends. The benefits of Math-A-Thon add up to help a good cause. Students who participate will improve math and comprehension skills, solve age-appropriate math problems, and understand the importance of helping others. This all equals help for St. Jude patients battling cancer and other catastrophic childhood diseases. This year, Mrs. Lee’s math classes (Team 6-4) raised $410.00 and Mrs. Miller’s math classes (Team 6-1) raised $455.00 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Congratulations Teams 6-1 and 6-4 for making a difference in the lives of children.

First Semester 8^th Grade Exam Schedule: Exams for 8^th graders will be December 15^th through December 18^th. We would like to encourage parents to keep the exam schedule in mind when scheduling orthodontic, dental and doctor appointments during this week. School will be in session until 3:00 p.m. December 15-17. School will be dismissed at 1:00 p.m. on December 18^th.

December 15^th – 2^nd period Spanish/French exam (7:55 – 9:15); 4^th period exam (1:00 – 2:20)

December 16^th – 1^st period exam (7:55 – 9:15); 7^th period exam (1:00 – 2:20)

December 17^th – 3^rd period exam (7:55 – 9:15); 8^th period Spanish exam (1:40 – 3:00)

December 18^th – 6^th period exam (8:53 – 10:13)

Winter holidays will be observed from December 21^st through January 4^th. Teachers will return January 4^th for a teacher workday (no students). Students are scheduled to return January 5^th to start the second semester. Report cards will go home January 7^th.

Is your child withdrawing? Please call your child’s grade level office or the main office to let us know if your child will not be returning to Berry after the winter break. This will allow our secretaries to prepare the proper paperwork in a timely manner.

Congratulations to the students who were selected Students of the Month for December.

Mathcounts: Berry Middle School will have two teams participating in the 2010 MathCounts competition that begins in February.

“Let’s Keep Talking . . . To Keep Kids Drug Free”: This week’s tip deals with Childhood Stress, and Teen Stress. Here’s the link: http://www2.hoover.k12.al.us/DEPTS/STUDENTASSISTANCE/Pages/Let'sKeepTalking.aspx

Lacrosse: Spring Lacrosse Registration is here!! Any boy or girl interested in playing lacrosse must sign up online at www.gbyla.org . Contact Coach Jordan if you have any questions djordan@hoover.k12.al.us .

Track And Field – 7^th and 8^th graders, if you are interested in participating on the Track and Field Team please see Coach Streeter to sign up. A current physical and consent form must be on file. Additional information on the parent meeting will be announced at a later date. If you have any questions please contact Coach Streeter at 439-2082 or dstreeter@hoover.k12.al.us.

CHILD FIND

Help Hoover City Schools locate, identify, and evaluate Hoover residents from birth to age 21 who have disabilities or who are suspected of having disabilities. Contact the Department of Instructional Support Services for Hoover City Schools at (205) 439-1051.

Notice of Nondiscrimination for all Mass-Distributed Publications

Effective July 2009

EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

(Board policy, 6.6) No student will be unlawfully excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination in any program or activity offered or sponsored by the Board on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, disability, creed, national origin, sex, immigrant or migrant status, non-English speaking ability, or homeless status. All career and technical education opportunities are offered to all students regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability.

Dr. Barbara Mayer, IDEA Coordinator Hoover City Schools

Dr. Tara Ferguson, Section 504 Coordinator 2810 Metropolitan Way

Dr. Deborah Camp, Title II Coordinator (grades K – 5) Hoover, AL 35243

Dr. Ron Dodson, Title II Coordinator (grades 6 – 12) (205) 439-1000

Dr. Barbara Mayer, Title III Coordinator

Carol Barber, Title IX Coordinator

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12/10/2009

December 10, 2009

6th Grade Office 439-2015 7^th Grade Office 439-2065 8th Grade Office 439-2064

Main Office 439-2000 Fax Number 439-2001

BERRY MIDDLE SCHOOL

PARENT NEWSLETTER

December 10, 2009 Vol. 15, #441

Hope Chest: Each year, we invite all members of our Berry family to participate in a fund-raising activity for the holidays known as Hope Chest. Funds from Hope Chest are used to purchase Wal-Mart gift cards for needy families in our community. Donation checks may be made payable to Berry Middle School with “Hope Chest” in the memo. Donations may be given to homeroom teachers. Thank you for considering this activity.

First Semester 8^th Grade Exam Schedule: Exams for 8^th graders will be December 15^th through December 18^th. We would like to encourage parents to keep the exam schedule in mind when scheduling orthodontic, dental and doctor appointments during this week. School will be in session until 3:00 p.m. December 15-17. School will be dismissed at 1:00 p.m. on December 18^th.

December 15^th – 2^nd period Spanish/French exam (7:55 – 9:15); 4^th period exam (1:00 – 2:20)

December 16^th – 1^st period exam (7:55 – 9:15); 7^th period exam (1:00 – 2:20)

December 17^th – 3^rd period exam (7:55 – 9:15); 8^th period Spanish exam (1:40 – 3:00)

December 18^th – 6^th period exam (8:53 – 10:13)

Winter holidays will be observed from December 21^st through January 4^th. Teachers will return January 4^th for a teacher workday (no students). Students are scheduled to return January 5^th to start the second semester. Report cards will go home January 7^th.

Is your child withdrawing? Please call your child’s grade level office or the main office to let us know if your child will not be returning to Berry after the winter break. This will allow our secretaries to prepare the proper paperwork in a timely manner.

Geography Bee: All Berry students have participated in the first round of the Geography Bee in their social studies classes. Now the top 50 or so students school-wide (based on their score in the first round) will be invited to participate in the final Championship Round to be held in the Media Center on December 15. These students will receive a written invitation that will need to be signed by their parents and returned in order to participate.

H1N1 and Seasonal Vaccine Clinic: We have just been notified by the Alabama Department of Public Health that there will be another clinic December 16^th at the Shelby County Health Department from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. If you have questions, please contact the Shelby County Health Department.

Lost and Found: If your student has lost items while at school, please encourage them to look in the lost and found areas. There are a number of items in the first floor lost and found near the lunchroom and also on the 3^rd floor in the lobby. Items left in lost and found after the holidays will be donated to a local charity.

Reminder: As the holiday season approaches, remember that students are not to deliver invitations, bring food, presents, or have these items delivered to other students at school. (Page 10 under “Disruptions During the School Day” in the Student Handbook located in your child’s agenda.)

Students: “Mohawk” haircuts are not allowed as Code of Conduct page. 32, #13 states, “no designs are to be cut into hair.”

“Let’s Keep Talking . . . To Keep Kids Drug Free” Tip of the week - Elementary Parents will read about “Saying No vs. Saying Yes”. Parents of Teens will read about “How do I Prepare My Child For College” (which addresses more than just academics, as you might expect).

http://www2.hoover.k12.al.us/DEPTS/STUDENTASSISTANCE/Pages/Let'sKeepTalking.aspx

Basketball: The 7^th grade girls and boys will play Bumpus at home on Monday, December 14; girls play at 4:30 and the boys play at 5:45.

Lacrosse: Spring Lacrosse Registration is here!! Any boy or girl interested in playing lacrosse must sign up online at www.gbyla.org . Contact Coach Jordan if you have any questions djordan@hoover.k12.al.us .

Swimming: The Spain Park High School boys’ and girls’ squads finished ninth in their respective team standings at the 2009 Alabama High School Athletic Association Swimming and Diving Championships at the James E. Martin Aquatics Center in Auburn last weekend. Spain Park’s 200-yard freestyle relay team finished fourth overall with a time of 1:42.27 in the girls’ standings. The Jaguars’ boys’ 200-yard freestyle relay team came in fifth overall with a time of 1:34.64. The quartet also finished fourth overall in the boys’ 400-yard freestyle relay event with a time of 3:25.34.

Wrestling: The wrestlers will participate in the Homewood Christmas Duals on December 11^th and 12^th. They will also participate in the St. Nick Invitational at Pelham.

BUILDING BASED STUDENT SUPPORT TEAM OR BBSST

In keeping with the Hoover City Schools belief that every student should be provided with every opportunity to be successful, Berry Middle School provides a Building Based Student Support Team (BBSST) designed to assist students with a wide range of issues which may develop during the course of a school career. BBSST seeks to identify and work with students who may have difficulties with school, family, peers, or everyday life experiences and to seek services which can assist students in achieving their educational and person potential. Difficulties for which students may receive assistance include, but are not limited to, depression, grades, family issues, substance abuse, domestic violence, etc. A faculty member, a student, or a parent may make referrals to BBSST. If you are interested in these services, please contact your child’s counselor.

CHILD FIND

Help Hoover City Schools locate, identify, and evaluate Hoover residents from birth to age 21 who have disabilities or who are suspected of having disabilities. Contact the Department of Instructional Support Services for Hoover City Schools at (205) 439-1051.

Notice of Nondiscrimination for all Mass-Distributed Publications

Effective July 2009

EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

(Board policy, 6.6) No student will be unlawfully excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination in any program or activity offered or sponsored by the Board on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, disability, creed, national origin, sex, immigrant or migrant status, non-English speaking ability, or homeless status. All career and technical education opportunities are offered to all students regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability.

Dr. Barbara Mayer, IDEA Coordinator Hoover City Schools

Dr. Tara Ferguson, Section 504 Coordinator 2810 Metropolitan Way

Dr. Deborah Camp, Title II Coordinator (grades K – 5) Hoover, AL 35243

Dr. Ron Dodson, Title II Coordinator (grades 6 – 12) (205) 439-1000

Dr. Barbara Mayer, Title III Coordinator

Carol Barber, Title IX Coordinator

Posted at 10:44 AM by Caver, Susan | Permalink | Email this Post | Comments (0)

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