Middle School

Seward Midde School Principal's Report

March 2008

by Steve Schrad

March 07, 2008

We have very positive feedback from students and staff about the flexible schedule that we piloted the week of February 19-22. Teachers were able to have 84-minute class periods that week. Some exploratory classes still met during the regular 42-minute period. This showed me that our middle school could manipulate the schedule in ways that benefit overall student achievement. After surveying the teachers, I found that most enjoyed longer periods and could actually get more accomplished. Students enjoyed longer periods in most classes, felt they learned more, and had more time to complete homework since their classes met every other day. The information gained can be used for the future. It is possible, that with positive communication, our middle school teams could implement various aspects of flex scheduling to help improve student achievement.

We have a lot of music news to report this month. First of all, congratulations to our middle school jazz band for their performance at the state capitol on March 4. They were selected to perform for Music Education Week. Also, we had 10 girls participate in Sing Around Nebraska in Omaha on February 16. On March 13, the Jazz Band and 15 solos/small ensembles from 6-8 grades will participate at the Malcolm Music Contest. The 8th grade choir will be traveling to Brainard for the East Butler Music Contest on March 29. Finally, on April 4, 12 7th/8th grade students have been selected by audition for a 1/2-day clinic for the Meridian Honor Band. That event will end with formal performance @ 7:00 PM

We have several music and band concerts coming up this spring. Below are the dates and times:

April 15         6th Grade Music Program, “Rockin' America”         7:00 p.m.
                    @ High School Auditorium
April 22         6th Grade Band Concert at band shell                     6:30 p.m.
April 28         Jazz Band Concert at band shell                             6:30 p.m.
May 5            7th/8th Band Concert at band shell                         6:00 p.m.

Terra Nova/In View achievement tests will be held on March 11-15. We encourage all students to be in attendance during this week of school.

Winter sports have ended for the season. Track practice begins the week of March 10. We have anticipated 80-100 7th and 8th students to sign up for track this spring. The first track meet for the middle school is April 8.

Please let me know if you have any questions. Thanks for your support.