
Video Link: bit.ly/olyRCv3
Students hear from teens about the benefits and drawbacks of presenting themselves differently (or even anonymously) to others online, and consider what it means to "be yourself" in digital spaces.
Games, social media, and other online spaces give kids opportunities to meet and chat with others outside the confines of their real-life communities. But how well do kids actually know the people they're meeting and interacting with? Help students consider whom they're talking to and the types of information they're sharing online.


Unified PE students went bowling today to thank our awesome PE buddies for a wonderful semester! This class promotes inclusion & helps break through social barriers. #spartanproud


OMHS Angel Tree Deadline Friday!


Three of our football players were recognized at the Board of Education meeting for their All State recognition. Nolan Yeary - Academic All State & All State Honorable Mention; Blake Youngren - Academic All State; Chase Litwiller - All State. Congratulations boys on your well deserved recognition at the State level!


Current 8th, 9th, 10th, or 11th graders, if you are interested in joining band or color guard for the 2024-25 academic year, fill out the Google form attached. You do not need to fill this out if you are already a current member of either group. Serious responses appreciated. If you have any questions, please reach out to Mr. Spencer at james.spencer@olympia.org.
Band Interest Form:
https://forms.gle/upzMcWamY2uRN4d89
Color Guard Interest Form:
https://forms.gle/xQBsg278th3VemB46


Olympia Wrestling team defeated Farmington 57-18 and Defeated Eureka 54-25. The wrestling team is now 7-0. Next meet is Thursday VS El Paso at El Paso.

When we talk about our personal beliefs and politics, passions can run high -- especially when we're online. These intense moments can often lead to tit-for-tat insults, or worse. But, if addressed calmly and coolly, they can be an opportunity to find common ground and deeper understanding. Teach your children to keep disagreements civil so their ideas will be heard and so they can advocate for positive change.
In this video, you will hear from Cameron Kasky, Parkland school shooting survivor and March for Our Lives activist, on what he learned about civil discourse online and how to foster common ground with others, even in disagreement.
Video Link: bit.ly/olyRCv7
Video Discussion Activity: bit.ly/olyRCda2


The middle school chess team had a blast traveling down to Decatur for the 3rd Annual Macon County 4-H Chess Tournament. We had 6 players attending their first chess tournament ever. Each player won at least one match, with Casey Williams getting a team high 3 wins and a draw!


Another successful weekend for the Spartan wrestlers. The team finished 3rd out of 24 teams at the Munch Invitational in Pontiac. We had several placers, and two tournament champions, Jordan Bicknell at Girls 140lbs, and Kelton Graden at Boys 165 lbs.



Parenting can be hard! Holidays can add stress. Find hope, answers, and stay current on parenting trends. Check out this Spartan parent resource: https://parentguidance.org/
This resource is available to all parents, grandparents and staff.


Olympia High School wrestling improves to 5-0 tonight at Lincoln High School for the annual Manahan Duals honoring legendary coach Mike Manahan. We had 3 duals, first defeating Heyworth 72-12, then Lincoln 48-32, and finally U-High 58-20.



Tomorrow is the last day to register for the OHS Dance Mini Clinic. See the flyer for more information!


High School Wrestling had our first dual meet tonight at Illini Bluffs. Defeating East Peoria 51-39 and Illini Bluffs 45-33, starting the season with a team record of 2-0!



Social interaction is part of what makes online gaming so popular and engaging for kids. Of course, online communication can come with some risks. Show your kids how to keep their gaming experiences fun, healthy, and positive.
Video: bit.ly/olyRCv1
Video Discussion Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HQQ_lgKj5SVL5aGWYOrIfDfcwtxxjK9sI9-hJmSs3XY/edit


Soon after kids start reading and writing, they often begin interacting with others online. Whether they're chatting within games or texting family members, kids need the skills to interact respectfully. These skills will help kids -- and the people they're communicating with -- have positive experiences online. Throughout December, be on the lookout for these 4 Family Tips for elementary families who are looking to build a strong foundation for online relationships and communication!
1. Give them the right words.
2. Play a game of telephone.
3. Help kids navigate online friendships.
4. Develop their instincts.

So much of kids' social lives happens online. Whether they're texting with their study group, flirting on social media, or voice-chatting on game platforms, middle and high schoolers can learn to communicate in safe and healthy ways. These skills will help kids -- and the people they're communicating with -- have positive experiences online.
Give them the right words.
Learn about their worlds.
Empathize with the pressure to overshare.
Develop their instincts.

Olympia Wrestling had another great tournament this weekend in Bethalto at the Steve Bradley Invitational. We had 8 kids place in the top 8 and the team finished 4th out of 22 teams.



Send off for the 7th Grade OMS Basketball Team will be today at 12:15 from Olympia West through Hopedale and out to the interstate. They play at 2:30 vs Southwestern Piasa at Auburn High School.


Check out Coat Giveaway Details:


Caring for individuals with disabilities can be hard, do you know about respite care?
