Mandarino Minute for 12-14-15

Dear Parents/Guardians,

8th Grade EDP's-
8th graders in their Social Studies classes on Friday worked on their Educational Development Plans (EDP's) that follow them 7th-12th grades.  They worked on these with the guidance of their counselors.  EDP's are completed via CareerCruising.com http://public.careercruising.com/en/, and include a Learning Styles Inventory and a Career Interest Inventory. The counseling department is encouraging students to access Career Cruising and share their EDP with their parents.

Concerts-
Just another reminder that we have two concerts this week at Upton Middle School.  Tomorrow (Tuesday, December 15th) features our 7th & 8th grade orchestras and our 6th-8th grade choirs, and on Wednesday, December 16th will be the middle school and high school bands.  These concerts both start at 7:00 P.M. at the SJHS auditorium.  They are always a great way to get you in the spirit of the season. The concerts will also be streamed live on the St. Joe Bears Network on youtube for your relatives from out of town that are unable to attend at:  youtube.com/c/stjoebearsnetwork

All State Orchestra-  Kevin Wang
Congratulations to 8th grader Kevin Wang for being selected to the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association (MSBOA) all state orchestra team.  Kevin has now been selected two years in a row for his playing performance.  This truly is quite an honor!

Variety Show Informational Meeting tomorrow (Tuesday, Dec. 15th)-
Tomorrow, Tuesday morning at 7:30 A.M. in the Upton Media Center will be a short informational meeting for students interested in trying out for the variety show.  The Upton Variety show will take place on Friday, March 18th.  We encourage all and any sort of talent to please give it a shot.  Mrs. Schrock will once again be directing our show.

Wrestling Meeting after school Tuesday, December 15th-
Students should come after school tomorrow Tuesday, December 15th for an informational session on wrestling.  They will receive information and meet the coaches.  If your student is unable to attend, please have them email Mr. Lokey at blokey@sjschools.org

Community Corkboard-
Please visit the community corkboard for all the latest programs in the area at:  http://www.sjschools.org/sjps-parents/community-cork-board-district

The Break-
The entire Upton Middle School staff would like to wish everyone a wonderful Christmas break.  It should be a time to connect with family & friends, relax, unplug as much as possible, and just take it easy.  We hope it is a memorable time for you. :)

Quote of the week:
"The love of family and the admiration of friends is much more important than wealth and privilege."- Charles Kuralt

Best always,
Mr. Mandarino

Mandarino Minute Update for 12-10-15

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Great "Informance"and ...-
I think everyone will agree that the 6th grade "informance" Tuesday evening was outstanding! :)  The 6th graders have come a long way in 90 days. 

Remember that 7th/8th grade orchestra & 6th-8th choir concert is next Tuesday, December 15th and the MS/HS Band concert will be on Wednesday, December 16th. Both concerts will be at SJHS beginning at 7:00 P.M.

Variety Show Informational Meeting-
Next Tuesday, December 15th at 7:30 A.M. in the Upton Media Center we will have an informational meeting for anyone interested in trying out for the Upton Variety Show.  Mrs. Schrock will once again be our director.  We hope your son/daughter considers showcasing their talent! :)


Star Wars Movie Night at SJHS -
S.J.H.S. United Nations Club is hosting a Star Wars Movie marathon this Saturday, December 12th from 3:00 P.M. – 10:00 P.M. in the High School Student Center (same place middle school conferences were at) .  They will be showing Star Wars episodes 4, 5 and 6.  The cost is $5.00 for all viewing all three movies.  Popcorn and drinks will also be available to purchase for $1 each.

Book Fair and Toys for Tots ends tomorrow, Friday Dec. 11th-  
Tomorrow, Friday, December 11th is the end of our book fair here at Upton.  We appreciate your support of the fair and will now be able to add other books to our collection.
Our annual Toys for Tots drive will also end tomorrow.  If you would like to send in any last minute new unwrapped toys our local Marines would really appreciate it.

Elk’s National Free Throw Contest
This Saturday, December 12th at SJHS in the main gym is the Elk's National free throw contest.  This competition is for boys and girls ages 8-13 years old.  The registration begins at 11:00 A.M. and the
competition begins at 11:30 A.M.  We have flyers available in the Upton office.  For more information contact Doug Mikkelsen at 269-369-0920 or 269-923-0314 or email Elks National Free Throw Contest Question

Social Media #2 Update-
On November 16th I sent out an update on some social media sites that our students are exploring and using.  Today I am listing a few more that you as parents should be aware of.  Take a few moments and familiarize yourself with these apps if you are not familiar with them.

Tumblr
https://www.commonsensemedia.org/facebook-instagram-and-social/what-should-parents-know-about-tumblr?utm_source=103015+Parent+Default&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=weekly

https://d1pmarobgdhgjx.cloudfront.net/parenttip/PT_CMSE_Tumblr.mp4

Vine
https://www.commonsensemedia.org/facebook-instagram-and-social/what-should-parents-know-about-vine
 
https://www.commonsensemedia.org/videos/what-is-vine

10 most violent video games of 2015
https://www.commonsensemedia.org/blog/10-most-violent-video-games-of-2015-and-what-to-play-instead?utm_source=October+2015+-+Violent+Video+Games&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=weekly
 
 Short Meeting for 7th & 8th grade girls interested in trying out for basketball-
A short meeting will take place tomorrow, Friday, December 11th in the Upton Auditorium for any young lady interested in going out for 7th or 8th grade basketball beginning at 7:30 A.M.

Spirit Week #2 next week-
Monday- Pajama Day
Tuesday-  Twin Day (Two or more people who dress alike)
Wednesday- Favorite Sports Team Day
Thursday- Fitness Wear Day
Friday-  Christmas Day (Red, Green, Ugly sweaters, etc.)
  
Quote of the day:
"Anyone can carry his burden, however hard, until nightfall. Anyone can do his work, however hard, for one day. Anyone can live sweetly, patiently, lovingly, purely, till the sun goes down. And this is all life really means." ~Robert Louis Stevenson

Have a good one,
Mr. Mandarino 

Mandarino Minutes for 12-7-15

Dear Parents/Guardians,

6th grade Informance and Upcoming Concerts

Tomorrow (December 8th) there will be the 6th grade orchestra "informance" beginning at 7:00 P.M. in the Upton Blue Gym.  Come see how much the students have grown over the school year! 

The Upton Choirs and 7th & 8th grade orchestra concert is next Tuesday, December 15th at the SJHS auditorium beginning at 7:00 P.M.  Next week Wednesday, December  16th will be the MS/HS band concert also beginning at 7:00 P.M. in the SJHS auditorium.  This is a great way to put a smile on your face for the upcoming Christmas season. :)

8th grade Parents--- Save the Date for the High School informational meeting
Informational Scheduling Meeting for 8th Grade Students & Their Parents who plan to attend
St. Joseph High School Fall 2016

Tuesday, February 9, 2016 6:30pm
St. Joseph High School Auditorium

You will receive 2016-17 scheduling materials, learn about high school scheduling process, meet department representatives and tour the school.  This is a very important informational meeting and encourage all 8th grade students and their parents to attend.

One-Hour Delay

This Wednesday, December 9th is a district one-hour delay.  Buses will run one hour later and breakfast will still be served at UMS.  School will begin at 8:45 A.M.

The Book Fair Continues -

The book fair runs through this Friday, December 11th at Noon.  We will be running some evening hours tomorrow (December 8th) from 6:30 P.M.-8:30 P.M.  We want to thank you for past, present, and future support of our media center. :) 
  
7th & 8th Grade Girls Basketball

Any young lady wishing to tryout for 7th and 8th grade basketball there will be a short meeting before school in the Upton auditorium from 7:30 A.M.-7:45 A.M. this Friday, December 11th to hear more information from the coaches.  We will also have a signup sheet on the office windows for those interested.  
 
First Lego League Robotics from the desk of Robotics coach Denise Clark

Saturday our Robotic teams participated in the FIRST LEGO League Robotics Qualifying Tournament at Lakeshore Middle School.

The IROBOTS scored well in robot matches and their robot surprised them by hitting it's mark and getting the sorter to operate.  This excited the team members and they went back to the pit to program the robot to perform more missions.  With this new creative and inspiring energy they were on their way to place 2nd in the single elimination tournament. 

The CIRCUIT BREAKERS increased their scores with each robot match.  They were excited with this performance which inspired them to go back to the pit area and program their robot to perform more missions.  Part of the tournament involves project, core values and robot design judging.  The CIRCUIT BREAKERS were awarded the Judges Award for their unique efforts and performance.  Below is a picture of the CIRCUIT BREAKERS:

It was a pleasure working will all the students.  We are so proud of all of them.  They showed teamwork, Gracious Professionalism, Cooperation and had great fun.

Thank you to all the parents that helped and provided snacks/drinks throughout this season and at the tournament.  You should be very proud of your students.  Mrs. Clark

Upton First FTC Robotic Team From the Desk of Mr. & Mrs. Zimanski

The UPTON robotics FIRST FTC team finished in 8th place out of over 40 entries
at the Allendale Middle School on Saturday.

On behalf of Mr. White and Mr. Fisbeck, I would like to thank you for the opportunity
to help mentor the team this year. The students (and parents) have shown outstanding dedication and support for the team. These young engineers are our future! They will be the ones who take us to Mars and beyond and will cure cancer! They will make this world a better place.

I look forward to being part of this program for many years to come.

Your Upton Team:

Mr. Ryan White SJHS - Team Leader
Mr. Greg Fisbeck - Whirlpool - Programming Mentor
Mr. Mike Zimanski - EAGLE Technologies Group - Build Mentor

Mr. Aditya Ajoykrishnan - Build Team
Mr. Zachary Conybeare - Build Team
Mr. Jonah Cox - Build Team
Mr. Will Fisbeck - Programming Team
Mr. Cole Koetsier - Build Team
Mr. Dashiel Matlock - Programming Team
Mr. Steven Markert - Build Team
Mr. Sean Thursby - Programming Team
Mr. Nicholas Zimanski - Programming Team

Congratulations to all!  Mr. & Mrs. Zimanski


Honors Day Quotes for the quotes of the week:

"It takes many good deeds to build a good reputation, and only one bad one to lose it." -Benjamin Franklin 
 
“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams.  Live the life you’ve imagined.” -Henry David Thoreau
 
“There is no substitute for hard work.”- Thomas Edison

“Keep your dreams alive. Understand to achieve anything requires faith and belief in yourself, vision, hard work, determination, and dedication. Remember all things are possible for those who believe.”- Gail Devers

"It's not only children who grow.  Parents do too.  As much as we watch to see what our children do with their lives, they are watching us to see what we do with ours.  I can't tell my children to reach for the sun.  All I can do is reach for it, myself." ~Joyce Maynard

Have a great week and see you at the upcoming concerts,
Mr. Mandarino  
   

Mandarino Minutes for 11-30-15

Dear Parents/Guardians,


Honors Breakfasts

You received an evite from the PTO if your son/daughter qualified for the honor roll breakfasts this week.  The breakfasts begin tomorrow. If you have not RSVP'd then please do so today.  Here is a quick glance:

What:  Honors Breakfast
When:  6th grade- Tuesday, Dec. 1st; 7th grade- Wednesday, Dec. 2nd; and 8th grade- Thursday, Dec. 3rd
Where:  The Upton Cafeteria
What time:  Breakfast begins at 7:15 A.M. and the certificate and short presentation begins at around 7:25 A.M.

6th grade Orchestra Informance

Next Tuesday, December 8th beginning at 7:00 P.M. in the Upton Blue Gym will be the 6th grade orchestra informance.  Our 6th grade orchestra will have an opportunity to show you how much they have grown since early September. :)

7th grade vision screening

The 7th grade vision screening is tomorrow (Tuesday, December 1st) at Upton.  The students were given a half sheet pre-screening form for you to fill out last week.  This screening is done by the Berrien County Health Department staff.

7th & 8th grade Dance

The 7th & 8th grade dance will take place this Friday, December 4th from 6:00-9:00 P.M. in the Upton Blue Gym.  The admission is $4 or a toy worth $4 or more towards the Toys for Tots Drive. Please have rides here at 9:00 P.M.

Upton Equestrian Meeting 

The Upton Equestrian Club will be having a meeting for all students and parents that are interested in the equestrian team on Tuesday, December 8th @ 6:30 in Ms. Kietzerow's room at Upton.  For more information please contact Cindy Phillip  http://stjoeequestrianteam.weebly.com/  or you may also email Cindy at cphilip@vbisd.org.

Community Corkboard

Have you visited the community corkboard lately? If not, please visit  http://www.sjschools.org/sjps-parents/community-cork-board-district  for all the latest community events.

One-Hour Delay

We will have a district one-hour delay a week from this Wednesday on December 9th.  Buses will run one hour later, and breakfast will still be available at Upton.

Quotes for the week:

“No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”- Eleanor Roosevelt   

“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.”   - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Have a good week,

Mr. Mandarino

Mandarino Minutes for 11-23-15

Dear Parents/Guardians,


Conferences and Big Thanks-

The teachers, counselors, and administration would like to thank you for coming to conferences last week.  We have a nice turnout.  If you were unable to attend Thursday, we will be sending home the report cards and NWEA scores in their first hour classes tomorrow (Tuesday, November 24th).  We would also like to thank the parents, PTO, and coordinator Amy Peterson for providing a delicious meal from Charlie's Piggin' N' Grinnin Award Winnin' Barbecue between afternoon and evening conferences.  The meal was very appreciated!!


Junior Equestrian Team-

The Junior Equestrian Team at Upton Middle School is looking for students with all experience levels. Mrs. Cindy Phillip will be the coach and is excited to guide our team.  For more information you may go to :  http://stjoeequestrianteam.weebly.com/  or you may also email Cindy at cphilip@vbisd.org



Logo Contest for the Ren Baldwin Technology Festival-

SJPS is having a logo contest for the 2016 Ren Baldwin Technology Festival.  If your son/daughter would be interested in entering the contest the following link gives the details for this:
https://goo.gl/z1AfFU



Dressed for Success-  

Tomorrow (Tuesday, November 24th) will be our 8th annual dress nicely the day before Thanksgiving Day! :)


Battle of the Books-

The 28th annual Battle of the Books was a huge success!  Thanks so much to Mrs. Humes, Mrs. Dirlam, Mrs. Anderson, our ELA department, retired Upton employees, and the numerous parents volunteers that made the day so special.  The winning team came from Mrs. Gressley's 2nd hour class with the winning team named the Nerdy Knights.  The team consisted of :  Hannah Blazina, Gabriella Ott, Paige Dahlen, and Matthew Maher.  The runner-up team from Mrs. Gressley's 3rd hour, Hooked on Books,  consisted of:  Anika Benthem, Lauren Arel, Andrianna Nimtz, and Abby Peterson.


Toys for Tots-

Many of the schools in Southwest Michigan were approached by the United States Marines to participate in Toys for Tots and the Upton Middle School Student Council has agreed for Upton to be a drop-off area.  If your family would like to donate a new unwrapped toy our collection will run Monday, November 30th-Friday, December 11th.  All of our toys stay in Southwest Michigan to less fortunate kids.


Dance-

The 7th and 8th grade dance will take place on Friday, December 4th in the Upton Blue Gym from 6:00-9:00 P.M.  This dance is dress-up optional. (Not required)  The admission is $4 or a toy worth $4 or more towards the Toys for Tots Drive.


Builders Club-

The Builders Club will be meeting next on Wednesday, December 2nd after school until 4:30 P.M.


Honors Breakfast-

An invitation will be coming via email soon from the Upton PTO on Honors Breakfast.  They will take place next week Tuesday, December 1st (6th grade), Wednesday, December 2nd (7th grade), and Thursday, December 3rd (8th grade) and each day breakfast will be served at 7:15 A.M. and the presentation of Honor roll certificates will take place around 7:25 A.M.  You can refer to the November 2nd blog post for the honor roll criteria.


Book Fair-

The Upton Book Fair will take place from Monday, November 30th-Friday, December 11th.  The fair is in our Upton Media Center.  Any proceeds made from the Book fair goes right back into the Upton Media Center.


Lost and Found-

We have had the lost and found out at Upton for two weeks now.  If you know your son/daughter has lost something please have them check the tables out.  We have had many happy kids in the last few weeks to see long lost items discovered.

Quotes of the week:

"All I ever wanted really, and continue to want out of life, is to give 100 percent to whatever I'm doing and to be committed to whatever I'm doing and then let the results speak for themselves.  Also to never take myself or people for granted and always be thankful and grateful to the people who helped me." - Jackie Joyner-Kersee

“Do not indulge in dreams of having what you have not, but reckon up the chief of the blessings you do possess, and then thankfully remember how you would crave for them if they were not yours.” - Marcus Aurelius

I wish you and your family a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Mr. Mandarino

Mandarino Minutes for 11-19-15

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Conferences-

We hope to see you today between the hours of 12:30 P.M.-4:00 P.M. or 5:30 P.M. -8:30 P.M. for parent-teacher conferences at the SJHS Student Center.  You will pick up the report card and NWEA Fall results at the check in desk with Mrs. Olson (Last name A-K) or Mrs. Lownds (Last name L-Z).

Food Drive & United Way-

Right around 1,500 items were collected for the food drive for our local emergency shelters.  Your generosity will make for a better Thanksgiving and Christmas season for many. 

Thanks also to your son/daughter as we raised $150 for United Way Hat Day on Tuesday.  All the funds we raise for United Way stay local. 

An Upton Tradition Continues-

For many years now it has been a tradition at Upton to dress-up nicely the day before Thanksgiving break.  Students and staff come dressed as if they were going to a job interview, wedding, etc.  It is a nice tradition!  The date will be this Tuesday, November 24^th.

8^th grader – Kevin Wang- Another High Achieving Talented Student

8^th grader Kevin Wang was among 300 middle school students that were recognized by Northwestern University’s Midwest Academic Talent Search.  The score’s Kevin achieved on the SAT/ACT put him in the top 1%-20% of college-bound seniors.  This was quite an accomplishment!  Congratulations Kevin!

Congratulations Breckyn Bussey-

6^th grader Breckyn Bussey was recently crowed Southwest Blossoms Pre-Teen 2016.  This competition was among 9-12 year olds all over Berrien County. Breckyn will represent pre-teens in many parades and other events all through Southwest Michigan.

Quotes of the Day:

“At the end of the day, the most overwhelming key to a child’s success is the positive involvement of parents.” - Jane D. Hull

"Education is a shared commitment between dedicated teachers, motivated students and enthusiastic parents with high expectations." – Bob Beauprez

See you this afternoon/evening,

Mr. Mandarino

Mandarino Minutes for 11-16-15

Dear Parents and Guardains,


7th grade Battle of the Books-
The final battle has arrived!  This Wednesday, November 18th at 9:00 A.M. is the 28th annual Battle of the books for our 7th graders.  They have done such a fantastic job of reading the past several weeks and their hard work will pay off.  Thanks for encouraging the reading!
  
Conferences
Who:  You 
What:  Parent-Teacher Conferences Open House
Where:  St. Joseph High School Student Center
When:  Thursday, November 19th, 2015 from 12:30 P.M. - 4:00 P.M.  and  5:30P.M. - 8:30 P.M.
How:  You get in a line to meet with each teacher for 2-5 minutes each
  
Wrestling

Please go to this link if your son/daughter is interested in wrestling:  http://www.sjschools.org/images/District/Community%20Cork%20Board/Wrestling.pdf

EDP's

7th graders developed their Educational Development Plans in Social Studies classes on Friday with the guidance of their counselors. EDP's are completed via CareerCruising.com http://public.careercruising.com/en/, and include a Learning Styles Inventory and a Career Interest Inventory. The counseling department is encouraging students to access Career Cruising and share their EDP with their parents.

UPTO-

Our wonderful UPTO met last Thursday and are once again going to be providing a dinner between afternoon & evening conferences four our teachers.  They also sponsored the purchase of a book for the counseling department.  Our UPTO will also soon be sending email invitations to the Honors breakfasts that take place on December 1st (6th grade), December 2nd (7th grade), and December 3rd (8th grade).  The honors breakfasts begin at 7:15 A.M. and finish around 7:45 A.M.ish.

United Way Hat Day-

Tomorrow (November 17th) will be a Untied Way Hat Day.  Students may pay $1 to wear a hat and the money will go towards the SJPS United Way drive.   They will give the money to their 1st hour teacher.

Social Media

Would you like a little more information about some of the apps your son/daughter has on their phone, iPad, etc.?  Here are a few apps with explanations about each to better inform you what some middle school and high school students are using and communicating with. It is always a good idea to occasionally check your son/daughter's devices to see what they are doing, how they are communicating, and to see if they are responsibly communicating with others.  This week I will feature 3 apps, and in the future a few more.

Kik

https://d1pmarobgdhgjx.cloudfront.net/parenttip/PT_CMSE_Kik.mp4







Snapchat

https://www.commonsensemedia.org/facebook-instagram-and-social/what-should-parents-know-about-snapchat



Instagram

https://d1pmarobgdhgjx.cloudfront.net/parenttip/PT_CMSE_Instagram.mp4

https://www.commonsensemedia.org/facebook-instagram-and-social/what-should-parents-know-about-instagram


Thanksgiving Luncheon

Our ladies in the kitchen made an absolutely delicious Thanksgiving luncheon for our students last week.  The special luncheon took tons of preparation and the students and staff really appreciated the tasty meal.  The picture below is of Ben Anderson, Josh Terry, and Andy Blomgren who voluntairly asked if they could help clean-up after the meal was over. :)

Community Corkboard

Have you visited the SJPS Community Corkboard lately?  Here is a link if you have not :  http://www.sjschools.org/sjps-parents/community-cork-board-district

Planetarium Night-

On Monday, November 23rd Mrs. Francis will be hosting “Dawn of the Space Age” at 6:30 P.M. in our Upton Planetarium.  The October showing was a great success!  This show is geared for 6th graders and up.  Here is the link to the trailer:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DgYhrrYV-5Q

Quotes of the Week:

"Do you want to know who you are?  Don’t ask.  Act!  Action will delineate and define you.”- Thomas Jefferson

“Being politically correct means saying what’s polite rather than what’s accurate.  I like to be accurate.” - Robert Kiyosaki

See you at conferences Thursday afternoon or evening,
Mr. Mandarino

Mandarino Minutes 11-9-15

Dear Parents/Guardians,

8^th grader- Amy Paine-

8^th grader Amy Paine was among 300 middle school students that was recognized by Northwestern University’s Midwest Academic Talent Search.  The score’s Amy achieved on the SAT/ACT put her in the top 1%-20% of college-bound seniors.  This was quite an accomplishment!  Congratulations Amy!

One-Hour Delay-

We will have a district one-hour delay this Wednesday, November 11th.  School will begin at 8:45 A.M. and buses will run one hour later.  Breakfast will still be available at school.

UPTO Meeting 11-12-15-

This Thursday, November 12th we will have our November UPTO meeting beginning at noon in the Upton Conference room.  Please check into the office and join us if your schedule allows.

Parent-Teacher Conferences-

Just a reminder that our conferences will take place on Thursday, November 19th at the St. Joseph High School Student Center.  The times are 12:30 P.M.-4:00 P.M.  and 5:30-8:30 P.M.  It is an open house atmosphere. The parents wait in line for each teacher to discuss how things are going with their student.  This is our conference format 6th-12th grades.  If you have a 9th-12th grader their conferences will take place at the same times in the SJHS Field House. No middle or high school conferences will take place on Friday, November 20th.  The students will have November 19th and 20th off from school.

SJHS Musical-

St. Joseph High School students will present Cinderella on November 20th at 7:00 P.M. and November 21st at 2:00 P.M. & 7:00 P.M.   The musical will take place a the John & Dede Auditorium at SJHS.  Tickets for adults are $10, and Seniors & Students are $8.  Tickets can be purchased ahead of the show through the following emails and contact #:   Jon Wallace: jonrwallace@yahoo.com, jwallace@horizonbank.com  or by calling 269-449-8972

Other Dates to remember:

 -  Friday, November 13th  High School home football regional championship 7:00 P.M. at Dickinson Stadium

-  Monday, November 23rd  Upton Planetarium Community Night 6:30 P.M.

-  No school Wednesday, November 25th-27th for Thanksgiving Break

Quotes of the Day-

"An investment in knowledge pays the best interest."-  Ben Franklin

"How old would you be if you didn't know how old you are?" - Satchel Paige 

Have a good week,

Mr. Mandarino 

Mandarino Minutes 11-4-15

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Thanks for reading the blog from Monday.  I have a few more items to add this week.

Notes for Appointments-

Whether it is a doctor, dentist, orthodontist, or another appointment we would appreciate if your daughter/son would bring a note to the office before school.  We will then give them a pass immediately that they will present to the teacher to come to the office at the determined time.  It is preferred to have the note over a message left on the voice mail.  When you come into the school to sign them out they will put the pass in a little wire basket by the door, and when they return to school they use this same pass to admit them back into class.  Thanks for your help with this.

6th grade Book Club-

Mrs. Humes along with Mrs. Amy Nolan from the St. Joseph Public Library are starting a 6th grade only lunchtime book club.  The first book that they are going to discuss is Chasing Vermeer. This is a very exciting book written by Blue Balliett.  If your son/daughter are interested they should go to the Upton Middle School Media Center for a permission slip.  We hope that your son/daughter consider this.

Builders Club-

Our November project is “Knock-Out November,” a food drive for our local Emergency Shelter Services.  We will be collecting food items through November 18th.   All students are welcome to attend and try out Builders Club.  Membership applications and dues should be turned in by November 18th. Please contact Mrs. Reck (kreck@sjschools.org) or Mrs. Hunnell (shunnell@sjschools.org)  with any questions.

Football game behavior-

Overall Mr. Jeffers and I have been happy with the behavior of the students in the Upton Middle School student section.  Students must either be with you during games or in the Upton section.  We allow students to visit the concession stand at quarters and half only.  We ask for respectful behavior during the national anthem, and we stress no throwing of items.  Thanks for your support!

Quote of the Day-

"It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men." - Frederick Douglass

Have a good day,

Mr. Mandarino

Mandarino Minutes for 11-2-15

Dear Parents/Guardians,

End of the 1st Marking Period-

Tomorrow (November 3rd) is the end of the 1st marking period.  We will have a copy of the 1st marking period report card at conferences.  If you do not attend conferences then the report card will be given to the student at Upton to take home to you.  We only print report cards at the end of the 1st marking period and at the end of the school year.  (Marking periods 2 and 3 can be viewed online.)


Honor Roll Criteria

Marking Period Honor Roll Criteria-

Principals' Honor Roll:
Straight A's (or A-'s)

Honor Roll:
At least 2 A's (or A-'s) and no grade lower than a B.  This means B- or lower disqualifies.

This honor roll was designed by our student council several years ago, so it was a student-driven initiative. 


Parent-Teacher Conferences

Our conferences will take place on Thursday, November 19th at the St. Joseph High School Student Center.  The times are 12:30 P.M.-4:00 P.M.  and 5:30-8:30 P.M.  It is an open house atmosphere where you can meet with each of your child’s teachers for about 5 minutes each. (30 minutes total of teacher conferencing)  The parents wait in line for each teacher to discuss how things are going with their student.  This is our conference format 6th-12th grades.  If you have a 9th-12th grader their conferences will take place at the same times in the SJHS Field House.


Benefit Volleyball Game

We want to thank the students, staff, and parents for a great benefit volleyball game last week for our 8th grader battling cancer.  I know the Flores family was very grateful for the generosity of everyone.  It was great to see all the students and parents in the stands supporting such a wonderful young lady!

One-Hour Delay-

We will have a district one-hour delay on Wednesday, November 11th.  School will begin at 8:45 A.M.

Quote of the day:

"The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart." - Helen Keller

Have a good week,
Mr. Mandarino

Mandarino Minutes for 10-23-15

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Spirit Week Next Week (Oct. 26th-30th)-
Monday-  Favorite Sports Team
Tuesday-  Neon Day
Wednesday-  Decades Day (50's, 60's 70's, 80's)
Thursday-  Pajama Day
Friday-  Halloween Costume Day

8th grade Field Trip-
A special thanks to all our parents who chaperoned the two trips this week to the fish hatchery and SJ water plant.  The students had a good time and learned a lot.  Here are a few shots from Tuesday and today:

One-Hour Delay-

Next Wednesday, October 28th will be a district one-hour delay.  Classes will begin at 8:45 A.M. and buses will pick-up one hour later.

End of the 7th grade rotation one today-

Today (Friday, October 23rd) was the end of the first rotation.  7th graders will begin their new rotation on Monday, October 26th. 

Staff vs. 8th grade Volleyball Players-

Our staff will be taking on the 8th grade volleyball team this Wednesday, October 28th beginning at 6:00 P.M.  at Upton Middle School.  Their will be a free will donation taken at the door to benefit Madie Flores and her family.  As you know from earlier Mandarino Minutes, Madie is battling leukemia and is currently in Grand Rapids at the hospital.  Her medical journey can be followed at :

www.caringbridge.org/visit/madieflores

7th & 8th grade Dance-

We will have our first 7th and 8th grade dance on Friday, November 13th at Upton Middle School.  More details to follow in a future M.M.

Community Corkboard-

Remember to regularly check the community corkboard on our district webpage for many happenings around Southwest Michigan.  http://www.sjschools.org/sjps-parents/community-cork-board-district

Quote of the Day-

"Eagles come in all shapes and sizes, but you will recognize them chiefly by their attitudes."  - E.F. Schumacher

Have a great weekend,

Mr. Mandarino

Mandarino Minutes for 10-16-15

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Choir Concert-
What a great job our Upton Choirs did last evening at SJHS! All of our choirs sounded great, were well prepared, and the last song when they all came together was moving. :)  Congratulations Mrs. Gray-Roll and the choirs!

Make A Difference – Be a Volunteer Coach!

Do you want to encourage positive emotional, social, mental, and physical development in the girls of our community?  Do you envision a world where every girl knows and activates her limitless potential and is free to boldly pursue her dreams?  If you said “yes” to either question then Girls on the Run of Berrien County wants  you to join our team!

Girls on the Run provides a unique opportunity for you to give back to the community and make a difference in the lives of young girls by being a Volunteer Coach!  If you are interested please email Megan Dongvillo at: mdongvillo@sjschools.org

Bus Changes effective 10-26-15  -
A few changes of stops and bus assignments have been made due to the ridership numbers.  Yesterday (Thursday) and today (10-16-15) hard copy notes were given to the students on the buses.  To see the new assignments and times please go to this site:
http://sjschools.org/about-upton-parents/transportation
 
Planetarium Community Night-
Next Thursday, October 22nd will be a planetarium community night at UMS.  Mrs. Francis will present, “Sesame Street:  One World, One Sky” at 6:30 P.M.  Here is a trailer to describe more about the show:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dnrRfK91-LU

8th grade science field trips-
Just a reminder that half of our 8th graders will be out on Tuesday, October 20th and the other half Friday, October 23rd for their fish hatchery & water plant field trip.  This will be a great opportunity for the students to see their curriculum in action.

7th & 8th grade boys basketball tryouts-
Tryouts will begin next Friday, October 23rd at 3:00 P.M. for 7th and 8th grade boys basketball.  A valid physical form that was done after April 15, 2015 must be given to the Upton office or handed to the coaches the day of tryouts.  If you have any questions please email Mr. Sonnevil at esonnevil@sjschools.org


Quotes of the day:
In honor of our beloved Cubs I thought it would be appropriate to quote the greatest Cub of all time.

"Loyalty and friendship, which is to me the same, created all the wealth that I've ever thought I'd have.”- Ernie Banks

"You must try to generate happiness within yourself. If you aren't happy in one place, chances are you won't be happy anyplace.”- Ernie Banks

Have a great weekend,
Mr. Mandarino

Mandarino Minutes for 10-12-15

Dear Parents/Guardians,

 

UPTO-

Our wonderful UPTO met last week Thursday, October 8th and continues to do a great job.  If you would like to be a part of the UPTO Facebook page please ask to join at :  https://www.facebook.com/groups/UPTOBears/ .  Minutes of UPTO meetings will be coming in future Mandarino Minute blogs.

 Late-Start Wednesday, October 14th-

We have a district one-hour delay this Wednesday, October 14th.  Buses will run one hour later and school will begin at 8:45 A.M. Breakfast will still be available to students that would like it.  Our morning supervision is also still in place.

7th & 8th grade Football games at Dickinson Stadium tomorrow, Tuesday, October 13, 2016-

10/13 Upton Football Schedule, Played at S.J.H.S. Dickinson Stadium.  We will be operating a gate for this game, and it is is the only home game we charge for.  ($3.00 for adults and $2.00 for students)

3:45 P.M. – Upton 7th Grade vs Lakeshore 7th Grade
5:15  P.M. – Upton 8th Grade “B” vs Coloma 7th/8th Grade
6:45 P.M. - Upton 8th Grade “A” vs Lakeshore 8th Grade

If any parent could give of some time in the concession stand tomorrow during any of the games it would be very appreciated. :) Ann Essig would be happy to have you and assist you in knowing the ins and outs.  

Choir Concert Thursday, October 15th-

Upton Middle School choirs will host their first choir concert of the year this Thursday, October 15th beginning at 7:00 P.M. in the high school auditorium.  Mrs. Gray-Roll and her choirs will entertain you with a variety of choral music.

MSBOA Fall Clinic-

Good luck to our 7th & 8th grade orchestras as they perform their Fall Clinic this Saturday.  This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to interact with other string players from across the state of Michigan and to perform in front of clinicians.  

 

Quote of the day:

“Always do right.  This will gratify some people and astonish the rest.”-  Mark Twain 

Have a good week,

Mr. Mandarino