We will have the portable Market set up this Friday outside the cafeteria at 3:15-3:35. Stop by and grab what you need.
It's easy to get distracted from homework (and life) when the phone never stops pinging and the next episode plays automatically. Let's set some common sense guidelines by signing this Family Media Agreement within your family: bit.ly/OlyAgreement
Election season stressing you out? This article from The Chicago School syncs up nicely with many of the Social Emotional Learning (SEL) skills that we teach at Olympia; practice mindfulness for self-awareness, take mental health breaks, set boundaries, etc... These skills will help kids and parents alike navigate the media landscape during stressful (or even day to day) events.
In November Olympia will be focusing on finding the right balance between our devices, an onslaught of media, and our own personal well-being. Read more of our philosophy around this topic here: bit.ly/OlyMediaBalance
Article: New Healthy Media Habits for Young Kids
Now that screen-time recommendations are more flexible, it's time for new rules. | Caroline Knorr
https://bit.ly/OlyMBCK
Walk through what to do if your kid is being bullied online. First, step away. Ignoring a bully can be very effective. If the bullying continues, take screenshots or print out evidence. Then block the person. If it gets worse, report the behavior to a trusted adult.
Article: bit.ly/OlyCBA5
Other than straight-up cyberbullying, what are some other reasons our kids might be bummed by others' online behavior? Read more about ghosting, subtweeting, griefing (plus more), and learn some simple tips on how to handle these situations.
Video: bit.ly/OlyCBV3
Chatting online can feel just like talking to someone in person, but it's actually quite different. It's all because of something called the "online disinhibition effect," which makes us more likely to share/communicate differently than if in person.
These outstanding sixth graders are the first inductees to the Sixth Grade Hall of Fame. These students consistently exhibit the qualities identified as the sixth grade Honor Code and were nominated by their peers. Congratulations, Spartans!
The basketball season is coming quickly as we are just 19 days away! Here is a team store link to celebrate the season and get some new Spartan Basketball gear. We can't wait to see everyone on December 2nd for our first home game! #TogetherWeAreOne
https://orders.minervapromotions.com/olympia_hs_basketball/shop/home
If you notice your kid getting pulled into digital drama, help them take a break. They might need some help setting limits. Putting devices to bed at a specific time, plus breaks for mealtimes and face-to-face connection, can help kids recharge.
Join us tomorrow Wednesday (October 23) for a Spaghetti Dinner prior to the Fall Choir Concert! Enjoy a meal! Pick up some Simply Sweet Cakes cupcakes and some Olympia swag! Try a lotus drink!
Resources: bit.ly/OlyCBR2
There are A LOT of "social media" sites out there. You know about Twitter & Facebook, but what about Reddit, TikTok, Snapchat, or Discord? Educate yourself with these "Parent's Ultimate Guides" from Common Sense media!
Video: bit.ly/OlyCBV4
For kids, miscommunication is a common occurrence online and on social media. Plus, being behind a screen makes it easier to say things they wouldn't say in person. So how do we help kids avoid the pitfalls of digital drama? Hear it from the source!
Let kids know that supporting someone who is being bullied makes a difference. If they feel safe confronting the bully, they should. If not, a PM can help someone through a tough time. Speaking up against hate speech is important too!
Olympia Middle School staff spent the afternoon digging into The Writing Revolution 2.0. Our school wide learning goal this year is to improve student writing. We have been working hard to break down writing skills into manageable steps for students. The staff spent time learning different ways to offer specific and actionable feedback to student writing. We believe that strong writing skills are essential for students to achieve success in all subject areas.
Video: bit.ly/OlyCBV5
Digital harassment happens when teens use texts, instant messages, emails, and social media posts to keep tabs on or threaten someone else. It usually involves two people in a close relationship. Here are four ways to help teens avoid digital harassment.
Help Olympia Football tackle hunger this Friday.
If kids feel like they might have trouble removing themselves from digital drama, experiment with some different ways they can make a graceful exit. Talk through words they can use, ways they can steer conversations in positive directions, etc.
Video: bit.ly/OlyCBV6
Cyberbullying is something most families hope they never have to deal with. But if your kids are texting, sharing photos, and posting comments, it’s important to talk to them about how to deal with online harassment. Learn 5 ways to stop cyberbullies.
