HMS Family Newsletter | Dec. 5th

 
HMS Newsletter Template 25-26

Principal Corner

It’s been a busy and rewarding week at Hastings Middle School. Walking through classrooms, I saw students engaged in math challenges, science experiments, and lively discussions. Their hard work is really paying off. We also had special events that showcased our students’ talents and voices.

On Thursday, our orchestra students gave a wonderful performance for their peers and families. Their dedication and practice truly shined. Earlier in the week, I sat down with student focus groups to hear their thoughts on school life. I’m so proud of these students for speaking up to help make HMS even better.

Community support was also a highlight. We received news of a grant to fund new acoustic panels in our cafeteria, which will make lunchtime quieter and more enjoyable. Our staff and PTO are planning a fun “Jingle Bingo” event for later this month, and we’re grateful to the parents who have already volunteered or donated prizes this week. Your involvement shows the strong community spirit at HMS.

Thank you for your continued support. Enjoy the weekend. As always, feel free to reach out with any questions.

Ryan Wynn

Go Raiders!

Ryan Wynn
Principal
Hastings Middle School

Building Closes at 2:45 PM

Now that winter weather has arrived, we want to remind families that all students must exit the building by 2:45 PM unless they are with a teacher, attending a supervised activity, or participating in after-school programming.

Over the past few weeks, staff have been needing to clear students out 10–15 minutes after the bell, which creates safety concerns and prevents our custodial team from beginning their work on time.

Please help us by reinforcing this expectation at home:

  • Students should gather their belongings and head out promptly at dismissal.
  • Rides should be arranged to arrive no later than 2:45 PM.

Thank you for partnering with us to keep dismissal smooth, safe, and efficient during the winter months!

Dates to Remember

12/11 Choir Concert (Grades 7-8)

12/16 Choir Concert (Grades 5-6)

12/24-1/4 No School: Winter Break

Join Our Team! 🌟

We’re currently hiring Paraprofessionals (PSAs) across the Hastings School District! These positions play an important role in supporting our students and staff every day.

If you or someone you know is interested in making a difference in our schools, we encourage you to apply today!

👉 Apply Now!

🎁 Project Share Holiday Assistance Program

While we’re just settling into fall and enjoying the cooler temperatures, it may seem early to think about the holidays, but Hastings Family Service is already preparing!

Project Share is an annual holiday gift and meal assistance program for families who live within ISD 200 and have children. Registration opened October 22, when families will meet one-on-one with a volunteer to:

  • Share their children’s holiday wish lists

  • Indicate whether they’d like gifts wrapped

  • Request a holiday meal

  • Select small gifts or stocking stuffers for each household member

Project Share

If your family could benefit from this support, or you know someone who might, please visit Hastings Family Service to learn more and register.

📚 The Scholastic Book Fair is Coming to HMS! 🎉 

The Scholastic Book Fair is a fantastic opportunity to share the excitement of new books with your child. Independent reading fosters a love for learning and supports academic success, so don’t miss out!

Book Fair Homepage: Scholastic Book Fair – Hastings Middle School

Set up a Book Fair eWallet, a secure digital payment option that allows your child to shop cash-free at the Fair! Visit our homepage to learn more.

School Dates:

  • Monday, December 8 | 7:35 AM - 2:45 PM
  • Tuesday, December 9 | 7:35 AM - 2:45 PM

Location: Hastings Middle School Library Media Center

We can’t wait to see you there! 

Student Support Team

Main Office📞 651-480-7060

 

Ryan Wynn – Building Principal

Pam Johnson – 7th & 8th Grade AP

Scott Addyman – 5th & 6th Grade AP

Wellness Center📞 651-480-7084

 

Brooke Johnson – 5th Grade Counselor

Jade Achman – 6th Grade Counselor

Ellen Rademacher – 7th Grade Counselor

Megan Latch – 8th Grade Counselor

Cyndi Sheehan – School Social Worker

About Us

Main Office 651-480-7060

Wellness Center 651 480-7084

Nurse's Office 651-480-7072

Attendance Line 651-480-7061 (late or absent), 651-480-7062 (passes to leave school)

🕒 Schools Hours

7:55 AM – 2:35 PM

🏴‍☠️ Raider Way Updates

The Raider Way is a team of dedicated staff who work to ensure that everyone at HMS is being safe, respectful, and responsible by using the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework.

Jingle Bingo

On Tuesday, December 23rd our Hastings Middle School will be doing Jingle Bingo for students! We are in need of parent/guardian volunteers and donations.

To donate, use this Amazon wish list and drop off items at the Hastings Middle School welcome center: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3JNOE2VRZM9GG?ref_=wl_share

To volunteer your time, sign up with this link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090A4BAAA928A3F85-60788976-hmsjingo#/

Thank you for your support!

🏥 Keeping HMS Healthy

We’ve had a lot of stomachaches in the health office this week. 🍎 A good reminder for all students — don’t skip breakfast!

Starting the day with something nutritious helps the body and brain do their best work and can prevent those mid-morning stomach pains. Encourage your student to eat something before school or take advantage of our school breakfast options each morning.

Wishing everyone a healthy and energized week ahead,
Nurse Erin and Nurse Katie 🌸

HMS Website
HMS Family Resource Page

Additional Notes

Lost and Found

Lost and found items are primarily located near the gym. These include clothing, water bottles, hats, and similar items, which students can collect during the school day. After school, students and families can access these items by entering through the gymnasium doors.

Smaller valuables, such as headphones and jewelry, are kept at the Welcome Center. These can be retrieved during school hours or after school until 3:30 pm.

Please remind your child to regularly check the lost and found for any missing items throughout the school year. Unclaimed items will be donated on the following dates:

  • December 23

  • February 25

  • March 13

  • May 1

Parent Lunch

Parent/guardians are welcome to eat lunch with their student. Please alert Rachel Boatman in the Welcome Center 24 hours in advance either by phone (651-480-7062) or email (rboatman@isd200.org). When notifying Rachel Boatman, please state the day you are planning on coming in to eat lunch and your child's name/grade level. To enter the building, you will need to show your driver's license as part of our check in system.

Grade Level Lunch Times are Below:
Grade 5: 11:19-11:44
Grade 6: 12:16-12:41
Grade 7: 10:50-11:15
Grade 8: 11:47-12:12

Parent Portal and Schoology Access

If you need assistance logging into the Parent Portal and Schoology:

Reach out to Natalie Zeyen nzeyen@isd200.org 651-480-7084

Parent Partnership

Parent partnership is a vital part of making Hastings Middle School a success! Whether it’s through volunteering your time or contributing resources, your support makes a big difference for our students and staff.

PTO Membership
Our PTO is looking for parents/guardians to join and help continue supporting our school community. If you are interested, please contact Devyn Dimmick-Partington at devyn.dimmick@gmail.com.

Ways to Get Involved:

  • Volunteer Sign-Up (Raider Cove): Click here to volunteer

  • Raider Cove Amazon Wish List: View the wishlist here