Week #30- March 24, 2025

I greatly enjoyed seeing many students and families enjoying the evening at MES this past Thursday. It was fun to watch the Bridgewater College students interact with students. The activities were fun and the energy was outstanding. Thanks to all of you who came out for the Spring Title I Literacy Night. 

Prior to returning to the school for the event, I attended the reception for RCPS Teachers of the Year at the Simms Center in Harrisonburg. It was a privilege to see Mrs. Howard recognized along with great teachers from other RCPS schools. Beau Dickenson, RCPS Supervisor of Social Studies, spoke about the life and impact of Lucy Simms, for whom the RCPS Teacher of the Year award is named. Lucy Simms taught for fifty-six years! While I am certain I will not enjoy a fifty-six year career as an educator, I am hopeful that I can have even a fraction of the impact that great teachers like Lucy Simms and Etta Howard have had. Congratulations, Mrs. Howard and thank you for what you do!

If there is a teacher that had a special impact on you or your child, take a few minutes this week to let them know how special they are. Educating children is challenging, and your words of encouragement are greatly appreciated.

Thank you for continuing to support MES!

Other Announcements/Reminders from the MES Office:

  • The final MES 10-Day Attendance Challenge will be held May 5-16! Mark your calendars!

  • March Menus; April Menus (Note the changes for this week)

    • Monday, March 24- Walking Taco or Yogurt Combo for lunch

    • Tuesday, March 25- Only option for lunch is BBQ Chicken on Bun

    • Wednesday, March 26- Only option for lunch is Stuffed Crust Pizza

    • Thursday, March 27- Manager’s choice for breakfast

  • MES Theme and Spirit Days 2024-2025

  • MES Library Information: Library Catalog Tutorial explains how families can access the MES Library Catalog and how to use the search, history and hold features of the catalog.   Learn more at the MES Library Website.

  • Attendance Tip: The last family member to see students before they catch the school bus or unload at the school play a critical role in supporting positive attendance habits. Make a positive statement about school and be specific when it makes sense. A statement such as “You’re going to rock that math quiz today!” or “You’re going to have a fantastic day!” can help set a tone for the day. The manner in which students are greeted as they arrive home each day may also impact how they feel about school. Asking students about their day and having them recall positive events and things they learned will strengthen the relationship between home and school.

Parent & Family Resources & Information: 

Activities & Events at MES:

Spring Pictures- March 25

RCPS School Board Members Visit- March 27

Teacher Workday/No School for Students- Friday, March 28

Spring Break- March 31-April 4

MES STEM Day- April 8

MES PTO Meeting- April 9

MES Talent Show- April 17

RCPS Schools Closed- April 18

No School for Students/Teacher PD Day- April 21