The school year will soon come to an end and many exciting activities are happening at the Middle School.  I have listed a few of them below: 

The ASK 6-7-8 state tests are just around the corner.  The Middle School tested very well last school year and passed all areas in Language Arts, Math and Science.  We passed every sub group and every one of the 41 indicators required under the NCLB law.  I am so proud of the students and staff.  We are working even harder this year as the passing limit numbers set by the state have increased.  The testing dates are as follows:  ASK 7-8 on April 28-May 1, with make up dates May 5-8; the ASK 6 on May 5-8, with make up dates May 12-15.  The students that are testing will have a half day with a dismissal time of 11:40 a.m.  Students not testing will remain in school for a full schedule with a dismissal time of 2:30 p.m. 

Study Island is an online computer-based tutoring program that the Middle School has used for the last two years.  The students work diligently on Math and Language Arts programs to assist the classroom instruction.  This is used at school and can be used at home as well.  It has been very successful. 

Many students have been arriving 45 minutes early to attend the Zero Period Morning Program.  They are getting extra instruction in Math and Language Arts four days a week to better prepare them for the curriculum and state testing.

Project Success is an afterschool program in which students get extra instruction in Math and Language Arts.  They also get assistance in homework.

Spring Sports began on March 10 with try outs in Softball and Baseball.  Track season began on March 17.  The boys and girls are doing well and we can only hope the weather cooperates for the teams.

The Gifted & Talented students will participate in the Annual Ocean County Convocation that will be held at the Ritacco Center this year.  This is an annual event in which schools participate against each other in contests.  The students enjoy the competition and camaraderie.

The Annual “Buddy Days” will be April 21-25 this year with the Parent/Student meeting on April 28.  “Buddy Days” are when the Grade 5 students visit the Middle School in preparation for next school year.  The students are shown around the Middle School to follow the schedule and learn about the workings of the Middle School.

The 8th Grade students are preparing for the end of their Middle School career.  Many activities are scheduled to celebrate their time here at the Middle School.  They will attend the Annual 8th Grade Trip to Medieval Times in May.  Stand By Me Day will be May 23 and the 8th Grade Dinner Dance is June 6.

I want to thank the Manchester community for all their assistance in establishing and maintaining these very beneficial programs for the students.