Message from the Principal

Dear Parents/Guardians,

After a fast start to the 2009-2010 school year, the first quarter is rapidly coming to a close.  The students have settled into the natural flow of the school day and adjusted to the new year.  The Sawtooth Middle School staff continues to concentrate on developing individual student growth by fostering a progressive and reflective culture and by embracing the mission of the school.   

The 2009-2010 school year will bring very few changes but those that are made will assuredly have a significant impact on student learning.  Most notably Joint School District #2 has adopted Exit Standards for the 7^th and 8^th grade students.  The purpose for the Exit Standards is to increase academic accountability for our students and to align with high school expectations.  The Exit Standards for the grade levels are as follows:

7^th Grade Exit Standards                                                              8^th Grade Exit Standards

*60% grade average in each of the following courses:                 *60% grade average in each of the following courses:

-Math                                                                                             -Math

-Literature and Strategies                                                             -English

-Writing and Composition                                                            -Physical Science

-Life Science                                                                 *No more than 6 absences per semester

*No more than 6 absences per semester                                        *Successful completion of PACE

 

In addition to the Exit Standards, Sawtooth Middle School continues to follow a common grading policy.  In short, the policy allows student to redo assignments/tests/quizzes and to submit late or missing work and still earn a maximum of an 80%.   Student success and learning through work completion are the focal points of the policy.  You can note the common policies by reviewing the class expectations provided to students by their teachers. 

Teacher collaboration continues to be a defining characteristic of the school and district culture.  On each Wednesday throughout the school year we will continue with our late starts.  Our staff will meet on Wednesday mornings from 7:15-8:00 to engage in grade level and content area work that has the primary focus of student learning.  The specific collaboration model that we embrace is identified through a Professional Learning Community.  For more information on Professional Learning Communities, you can visit www.allthingsplc.com. 

 Parent-Teacher conferences will be held Wednesday, November 4 from 5:00-8:30 and Thursday, November 5 from 1:00-4:00 and from 5:00-8:30.  Your attendance at the conferences is critical.  The information that we as the educators can gain from a quick visit with you can make a difference for the student.  Please make the necessary arrangements to attend.

Lastly, it is important to the Sawtooth staff that you know how fortunate we are that we can share in the journey that the students are embarking upon.  We understand that adolescence can bring change and we are committed to supporting the you and your students through these wonderful years.  As always, thank you so much for the continual support you have provided to Sawtooth Middle School.

Sincerely,

David Moser, Principal