Weekly Principal's Message January 28, 2024

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cares photo

Congratulations to Denisse Stein, who was the Region 5 FCPS Cares Winner of the Month. Ms. Stein was recognized for her work with the Stone community. Ms. Stein hosted Stone's first winter boutique where families could come shop for free winter clothes and supplies. 


We are so happy to have Ms. Stein as a Panther here at Stone Middle School. 


Dear Stone Families, 

As we embark on the third quarter of the school year, it means the start of a new semester, which includes new schedules for some students. Student schedules are available in SIS. Students will also receive a new paper copy of their schedules on Monday January 29th when they arrive at school. 

I wanted to take a moment to update you on a few important matters.

  1. School Supplies Review:

As we transition into the third quarter, it's a good time to review your child's school supplies. Ensuring that they have all the necessary materials can contribute to a successful and organized learning experience. Please take a moment to check that your child has replenished any depleted supplies, especially pencils and paper, and is well-prepared for the remainder of the school year.

  1. Cell Phones and Ear Buds Usage:

I would like to address a growing concern regarding the use of cell phones and earbuds during the school day. Unfortunately, we have noticed an increasing number of students using these devices inappropriately, which is in direct violation of our county-wide policy.

Our school policy prohibits the use of cell phones and earbuds during the school day from 7:30am to 2:15pm. This includes classrooms, hallways, and other areas where students are expected to focus on their studies. In order to maintain a conducive learning environment, it is crucial that students adhere to these guidelines.

I kindly request your support in emphasizing to your child the importance of following school policies. To address this issue, we will be reinforcing the school-wide policy on cell phone and earbud usage. Teachers and staff will be taking cell phones and ear buds from those who violate the policy for the school day. Anything taken will be returned to the student at the end of the school day. Your cooperation in reinforcing these expectations at home will greatly contribute to a positive and focused learning environment at school.

Let’s have a great week Panthers, 

Sonya Williams

Principal


After School Program

The 3rd quarter Activity Calendar is now live and you can view it here.  Please see the new calendar below to see what fun and interesting programs you'd like to participate in. Some of the new clubs being offered this quarter include:

- Model UN

- Cooking Club (only for five weeks, limited to 15 students)

- "Paws & Listen" Podcast

- Panther Pride Shop

New Cooking Club with Ms. Egbers

Our new Cooking Club will kick off this quarter, starting February 15 for five consecutive Thursdays.  Ms. Egbers has requested that those students that sign up have NO food allergies to dairy, eggs or gluten.  The club will consist of students making simple and quick 30 minute meals that they can prepare with minimal supplies.  There will be a maximum of 15 students allowed to sign up for the Cooking Club.  If interested, please sign-up here.

“Winter Wonderland Party” this Thursday

The ASP Winter Wonderland Party will be held February 1st in the cafeteria.  You can still purchase entry to the party through MySchoolBucks until Tuesday.  On Wednesday only, students may pay via cash during all lunches for entry to the dance.  Entry is $5 and includes a slice of pizza and drink.  The party will begin at 2:30 and end at 4:25.  There will be NO other clubs or activities running during the dance. 


FCPS Academy Open Houses

Advanced technical and specialized elective courses are available at the High School Academies for students interested in pursuing coursework in a variety of options related to career pathways.  See more information on the upcoming Open Houses and programs here


National School Counseling Week February 5th-9th

Please help us celebrate our amazing school counselors in the upcoming weeks!  Our theme this year is “Stone Counselors are all Heart ♥”  We would love for our students and families to send notes to their counselor to thank them for their service to our school and community!

National School Counseling Week 2024, “School Counseling: Standards-Based, Student-Focused,” sponsored by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), will be celebrated from Feb. 5–9, 2024, to focus public attention on the unique contribution of school counselors within U.S. school systems and how students are different as a result of what school counselors do. National School Counseling Week highlights the tremendous impact school counselors can have in helping students achieve school success and plan for a career!