April Greetings . . . It is hard to believe that the end of the school year is just a few months away.  It doesn't seem that long ago that we were welcoming students back to school after a summer break.  But before we think about June 13 ^th (the last day for students) and a change in routine that summer provides, I wanted to communicate the importance of finishing strong in these coming days.  When we see the end to something (e.g. a task, project, or hurdle of some sort) it is easy to slow down, let up, or not put in the effort that we demonstrated at the start of the endeavor.  I am reminded of this as I sit in the stands and watch track athletes running the 400-meter race.  They all start off strong, but those who win the race also finish strong.  The act of learning can fall into this same subtle trap - beginning with effort and focus, but finishing with exhaustion prior to the goal.  I want to encourage our students, staff, and parents to not be caught off guard in letting this happen.  We don't need to lose a day given to us by coasting to the finish.  Rather, we need to give it our all -  one final push.

Our 8 ^th grade students will begin a new chapter of their education at the high school level next fall.  During these next few months - their last at the middle school level - it is important that they do their best to finish strong so they can be the best prepared for the next stage of their educational journey.  Following is an excerpt from a letter that was sent out to all households of 8 ^th grade students in early February - one that is worth reminding both students and parents of as we approach the end of this school year:

As educators, we work to promote student learning in both academic and non academic areas.  In addition to teaching writing, reading, math and other important skills needed to succeed in life, we encourage the development of positive character traits such as personal responsibility; traits needed in helping students prepare for constructive adult living.  The transition from middle school to high school is one that not only should be celebrated, but also marked with expectations of the young adults that our students are becoming.  This is the purpose of the La Pine Middle School 8 ^th grade accountability program.   

By successfully completing the following requirements, your student will be invited to the end of the year afternoon and evening activities on June 12, 2012.   If, for some reason, your student does not meet all of the following activities they will be invited and able to attend the breakfast and awards assembly only.

The requirements are:

• No more than one F for the 3 ^rd trimester .  Students receiving a D or F during Trimester 2 will receive a probation letter, notifying them that if they receive more than one F during Trimester 3 they will be unable to attend the end of year 8 ^th grade activities.
• No Out-of-School Suspensions during the 3 ^rd trimester .
• ALL fines cleared (library, textbooks, cafeteria, athletics, etc.) as of June 8 .  Students may have the option to work off fines - contact the front office early , if you are interested in this option.
• Completed waiver form (to be sent out at a later date) to attend the parent-sponsored school activities at a site to be determined.

We want every eighth grade student to participate in the activities that have been planned for them this year.  Please encourage your child to adhere to the expectations listed above so they can join us in all of the celebrations recognizing their promotion to the ninth grade.

Jim Boen, Principal