November - Middle School News
Hello, Families!
As we approach the end of the first quarter, I want to express my gratitude for your continued support throughout the year. The first quarter will officially conclude on November 1, and students will be dismissed early at 12:35 PM. We will begin the second quarter on November 4, and we're excited to keep building on the progress we've made. Please continue to or start making yourself familiar with Infinite Campus. We have truly enjoyed our transition over from Skyward.
Picture retakes will be held on November 7, so if your student needs a retake or missed the original picture day, make sure they’re ready for that. On November 11, we invite you to join us for our Veteran’s Day Program at 9:30 AM in "The Nest." It’s a wonderful opportunity for us to honor the veterans in our community and reflect on their contributions.
Later in the month, Parent/Teacher Conferences will take place on November 21 from 3:30 to 8:30 PM, and November 22 from 7:45 AM to 3:45 PM, with no school on that Friday for students. We look forward to discussing your child’s progress and goals for the year.
If you participated in our Bakers Square fundraiser, pie pick-up will be on November 26 from 3:30 to 8:00 PM in The Nest Foyer—just in time for Thanksgiving! Speaking of Thanksgiving, there will be No School on November 28 and November 29. I hope you enjoy the holiday break with your loved ones.
Thank you for your continued involvement and support. Let's make the second quarter as successful as the first!
Go, Windom Eagles!
Sincerely,
Mr. Dane Nielsen
Principal, Windom Middle School
Building Resilience
Dear Families,
One of the greatest challenges our middle school students face is the temptation to give up when the simplest tasks become difficult. Whether it's a challenging assignment, a new concept in class, or a personal goal. It's important that we get on the same page and teach them that struggle is part of the learning process and life. Perseverance builds resilience, and every small victory gained by pushing through tough moments boosts their confidence and growth.
As parents, teachers, and mentors, we can support our students by reminding them the most meaningful successes come from effort and persistence. Let’s encourage them to face challenges with a positive mindset, knowing that they are capable of more than they realize. Enough with this just quit mentality when we face the smallest bit of discomfort. It's time to start embracing the pain that can be life. We can also help our kids learn that we all feel agony at times, but leaning on one another will help to rise above.
Together, we can help our students build the determination they need to succeed.
Sincerely,
Dane Nielsen
Upcoming Events
Veteran's Day Program Monday, November 11 9:30 AM - The Nest
Our annual Veteran's Day program returns on Monday, November 11 at 9:30 AM. This will be the 38th annual program that our school has collaborated with American Legion Post 206 to present to our community and honor our veterans. This special program highlights the musical talents of our youth while honoring the service of our local heroes. This event is always open to the public and we encourage you to take a moment to join us in honoring those who have served.
Election day
The general election is fast approaching - Tuesday November 5 is a big day for our country, and very specifically a big day for local Windom races. Of course the presidential election has taken much of the attention for the national media, but it is worth noting the local races that we have and the involvement of our youth. Our seniors have the option of taking a political science course for college credit through SMSU in Marshall. Students in this class were given the opportunity to organize and run a debate for the Windom Mayor race. Nine students planned every detail and held a tremendous debate on October 7. We wish to thank Jenny Quade, Dominic Jones & Hilary Mathis for participating and modeling what civic discourse looks like for our students. It is only by having real discussion among local civic minded people that true progress can be made, both for our community and for our nation. It is inspiring to have such strong leaders in our senior class who had real practice in civic discourse in a very important race. All students who are 18 as of election day have the opportunity to vote during the school day with administrative permission. Best of luck to all candidates and please remember to VOTE!