5/17/2019

The SOLs continue today with a pair of tests — 7th graders will be taking Civics and Economics, while 8th graders tackle World Geography. We will be following “Team Time Bell Schedule A” — with a testing window from 8 to 10 a.m., and 6th graders following an adjusted class schedule starting at 8:15.
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Testing locations are listed on the call-boards by the cafeteria and auditorium, or you can check with your TA teacher. Test-takers are reminded that you may ONLY bring the following items: your fully-charged iPad, a pencil or pen, a book to read, and earbuds ONLY if you have an approved audio accommodation for the test.
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Please be aware that the testing window may extend beyond 10 o-clock — so students should remain in their designated locations until Mr. Boykin makes an announcement over the PA — at which time students may proceed to class.
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Any other questions or concerns? Check with your teachers, grade level counselors, or Ms. Cameron. Good luck on the SOLs, 7th and 8th graders!
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And now, we’d like to welcome a pair of special guests to the WOLF-TV studio. They’ve got an important message about how we can all help one another — when times are tough.
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KENNEY: Good morning Williamsburg! My name is Ms. Kenney.
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TUTTLE: And I’m Mr. Tuttle.
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KENNEY: May is Mental Health Awareness Month — and today, we’re here with another MINDFUL MOMENT — a special activity to help us all stress LESS.
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TUTTLE: According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 1 in 5 children ages 13-18 have, or will have, a serious mental illness.
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KENNEY: And suicide is the third leading cause of death amongst 10-24 year olds.
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TUTTLE: So today, we are here to talk about getting HELP.
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KENNEY: A major hurdle for those seeking help is — STIGMA.
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TUTTLE: What is stigma? It’s when people suffering from mental illness are viewed NEGATIVELY by others — or even by yourself. This stigma can result in feelings of shame and embarrassment.
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KENNEY: Unfortunately, many people FAULT those who suffer from a “mental health condition” — think it’s made up, not that serious, or something that you can just [snap your finger] SNAP OUT of. But that kind of thinking is just plain WRONG.
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TUTTLE: So let’s start the healing together by confronting the STIGMA of mental illness — head on.
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KENNEY: Here are THREE STEPS to follow….
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TUTTLE: Step one. Educate yourself and others. Know the facts about mental health and reject the negative stereotypes.
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KENNEY: Step two. See the person, not the condition. Each person dealing with a mental health condition has their own story. Treat yourself and others with kindness and empathy.
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TUTTLE: And step three. Take Action. If someone you cared about got sick — you’d take them to the doctor. So if someone you care about was struggling with their mental health — you should offer support and try to find them help.
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KENNEY: Whether it’s a counselor, a parent, a teacher, psychologist or other trusted adult in your life — you have the power to make a difference — in ending this stigma, and getting the help we need.
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TUTTLE: Thanks for joining us today in this Mindful Moment. And remember….
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BOTH: Stress LESS!!
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Thank you, counselors, for that important message. A quick reminder that the library is CLOSED during the testing schedule — but students may still stop by after school. Also, be aware that all library books are DUE on June 3rd — so read fast!
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The LAST Kindness Club meeting of 2019 will be held next TUESDAY during ASP 1 in room 201. Participants from throughout the year are invited to come by and celebrate all the accomplishments — and kindness — you’ve created in our shared community. Any questions? Please see Ms. Schaefer, Ms. Zeller or Mr. Johnson.
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And finally, it’s the LAST DAY of Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week — and we’ve got TWO more SUPER surprises for our teachers. First off, be sure to bring your appetite to the Teacher’s Lounge this afternoon, as the PTA caters a “whale-sized” lunch from Moby Dick’s.
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And we’ve also got something for you RIGHT NOW. On behalf of all the students here at Williamsburg, we’d like you to know how much we appreciate everything you do for us — everyday. And to show our thanks, the WMS student body has prepared a special video. Thank you, super teachers — you are SUPERHEROES!!

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