HMS Family Newsletter | Apr. 2nd

 
HMS Newsletter Template 25-26

Principal Corner

Dear Hastings Middle School Families,

This week at Hastings Middle School was marked by steady learning, thoughtful conversations, and leadership opportunities for our students. As I walked through the building, I saw students settling into routines, supporting one another in class, and continuing to take pride in doing things the Raider Way. Our daily reminders about being safe, respectful, and responsible helped set a positive tone as we moved through the week.

One of the week’s highlights was our continued focus on student leadership. Sixth and seventh graders were invited to apply for the WEB Leader team. This is a key role that supports welcoming and mentoring our incoming fifth graders. The application form went live this week. I appreciated hearing from students who were curious and enthusiastic about leading with kindness, and we are proud of the many thoughtful responses already submitted. These early steps are helping build a strong foundation for next year.

Reading also remained a central focus in classrooms. This week’s featured book recommendation, Wonder by R.J. Palacio, sparked meaningful conversations about friendship, identity, and seeing beyond first impressions. It has been encouraging to watch students connect those themes with how they treat one another throughout the day in the halls, at lunch, and during group work. Those lessons in empathy and perspective are just as important as academics, and they were on full display.

Ryan Wynn

Behind the scenes, our staff continued to collaborate in ways that strengthened instruction and built consistency across grade levels. Team meetings were focused and purposeful, ensuring we are aligned in how we support each child’s learning journey. That ongoing work matters. It’s what allows classrooms to stay energized, responsive, and inclusive.

As we head into the long weekend, I want to thank you for your ongoing encouragement. When we return, we’ll continue preparing for upcoming student events, MCAs, and the leadership opportunities that help make HMS a place where every student belongs and grows.

Go Raiders!

Ryan Wynn
Principal
Hastings Middle School

Dates to Remember

4/8: PTO Meeting

4/9 and 4/10: Middle School Play

4/23: Middle School Jazz Night

MCA Testing Schedule

Our spring MCA assessments are right around the corner. Please review the schedule below and help your student come prepared with a charged Chromebook, wired headphones, and a good night’s rest.

Reading MCA

  • Tuesday, April 14
  • Wednesday, April 15

Math MCA

  • Tuesday, April 21
  • Wednesday, April 22

Science MCA

5th Grade

  • Wednesday, April 29 (A Day)
  • Hours 1–3

8th Grade

  • Friday, May 1 (A Day)
  • Hours 1–3

We appreciate your partnership in ensuring students are ready to do their best. More details will be shared with students during the school day as we get closer to testing dates.

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!

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

5th and 6th grade Dance Fun Last Friday

Thank you to our 5th and 6th grade parent volunteers, our student council members, and our 7th and 8th grade student WEB leaders for your help in last Friday's 5th and 6th grade dance. This dance was so much fun and we were especially impressed with the safe, respectful, and responsible behavior from our students. Great work, Raiders!

7th and 8th grade Dance April 17th: Parent volunteers needed

We are in need of parent/family volunteers for our upcoming 7th and 8th grade dance on Friday, April 17th from 6:30-8 p.m. If you are interested, call the HMS Wellness Center at 651-480-7084. The theme of our 7th/8th grade dance will be Sky Full of Stars. Thank you for your support!

🏥 Keeping HMS Healthy

It’s officially allergy season! 🌼 Many students may begin to experience symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, or itchy eyes this time of year. Over-the-counter medications can often help manage symptoms and keep students feeling comfortable and ready to learn.

For more information on seasonal allergies and how to manage them, check out this helpful resource from Mayo Clinic:
👉 https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hay-fever/in-depth/seasonal-allergies/art-20048343

If you have any questions or concerns about allergies, immunizations, or your student’s health needs, please reach out to Nurse Erin or Nurse Katie.

Thank you for your continued partnership in keeping HMS healthy! 🌸
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:

  • May 1

  • June 9

Parent Lunch

Parent/guardians are welcome to eat lunch with their student. Please alert Kerry Pottinger in the Welcome Center 24 hours in advance either by phone (651-480-7062) or email (kpottinger@isd200.org). When notifying Kerry Pottinger, 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