Monday, April 27, 2020

Mandarino Minutes for 4-27-20

Dear Parents/Guardians,


Dr. Bruce's Message -

I hope you had a chance to listen/watch Dr. Bruce's message.  I am not at all discouraged by the 88% participation rate, but we would like to improve it.  If your daughter/son is struggling with engaging with their teachers, please reach out to the teachers directly, Ms. Toth or Mrs. Peterson, Mr. Jeffers, or I and we would be happy to help.  We will be doing a weekly attendance of participation in your student's classes and reaching out to assist if we can.  Remember one of the best ways to see what your daughter/son is supposed to do for the week is to sit down with them and have them show you on the itsLearning calendar.

Many of you have seen the remote learning plan before, but for those that would like to see it again here you go to view again:






8th grade Salmon in the Classroom -

On Friday, Dr. Ann St. Amand released the salmon from the 8th grade Salmon in the Classroom project.  This is always a great field trip for our 8th graders as they have a fun-filled day doing science experiments, getting in the creek, and the culmination of the release of the fish that they have seen grown up from eggs.  We had about 75 people watch it live and around 250 total views so far.  Here is a clip to watch if you would like to see the event from Friday:






The Guidance Department is here for your family! -

One thing we’ve noticed this week as we are connecting with students is how they are excited to see one another.  In this time of “social distancing” it’s important to remember that ‘physical distance’ does not have to equal ‘social distance’.  Encourage your student(s) find ways to connect with peers and have some fun!  Remember to take time and do this for yourself as well. 
If you need some ideas, check out our google site: 
This site includes a variety of resources to support you and your families.  We will be updating it regularly.  Please consider bookmarking it :)

This week’s update includes:
  • New articles in the parent resource section about social connection
    • Safe social sites & chat rooms
    • Surprising apps kids use to chat
    • Socializing at a distance
    • 3 ways to stay connected during COVID
    • Helping teens remain connected with peers while socially distant
  • A new local hotline in our community resource section: 
    • Michigan Dept of Health & Human Services has launched a peer-run warmline to assist with mental health needs related to anxiety, depression & trauma.  Call  the Michigan Mental Health Warmline at: 1-888-PEER-753 (1-888-733-7753)  - available every day between 10am - 2am.
  • In counseling resources: 
    • Michiana Behavioral Health in Plymouth, IN offers inpatient mental health treatment for 6-17 year olds
  • In self care & wellness:
    • Digital binging - is it a problem
    • Self care during COVID.
    • Schedules & activities bank
    • Pluto the dog’s inspiration
    • HS offered a virtual social hangout  for students on Wednesday
    • Have your student(s) keep an eye out for more ways to connect socially...opportunities will be shared via itsLearning



Ren Baldwin Technology Festival: Going Virtual  -

Here is a link to the Ren Baldwin Technology festival items:




Logo designed by 7th grader Dylan Walters





Wonderful UPTO -

I wanted to just let you know that your wonderful UPTO has been hard at work behind the scenery supporting students in need, planning for next school year, and supporting Upton teachers.  This group has been a real blessing to UMS students and staff this school year!




Student Yoga opportunity tomorrow -

Here is a link for your daughter/son to be a part of a free yoga retreat:       






Virtual Board Of Education Meeting -

  Notice of a Virtual Board of Education Meeting

The public may participate by dialing 478-268-6009 and entering PIN 596 836 350# when prompted.



Quote of the week -



Have a great week,
Mr. Mandarino



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Mandarino Minutes for 6-9-23

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