Principal's Update 3-6-26

 

 

PVIS Families,

If you haven't read Middle School Matters by Phyllis Fagell, it is worth the read and is a piece I often refer back to both as a educator and parent. I have summarized a parent hand-out of it here for you. Thank you as always for your partnership in supporting our students.

Have a great weekend, Be Legendary!

Micah J. Farrell, Principal

 

 

Supporting Your Child Through the Middle School Years 

Middle school is a time of rapid change socially, emotionally, and academically. Middle School Matters emphasizes that this phase is less about "fixing" kids and more about staying connected, building skills, and coaching them through challenges. This handout highlights key ideas and conversation starters for families. 

 

What Makes Middle School Different 

• Confidence often dips as kids compare themselves to peers and face higher expectations. 

• Emotions run high while impulse control and judgment are still developing. 

• Friendships, belonging, and identity feel especially intense. 

Your steady presence and perspective matter more than having the perfect answer. 

 

Skills That Matter Most 

Middle school is a prime time to help children develop life skills such as: 

• Problem-solving and critical thinking 

• Emotional regulation and coping strategies 

• Empathy, kindness, and integrity 

• Resilience and healthy risk-taking 

• Self-advocacy and confidence 

These skills support long-term success in school and beyond. 

 

Relationships Come First 

Strong relationships are the foundation for growth. 

• Start with trust, even when kids make mistakes. 

• Stay calm and curious when problems arise. 

• Separate behavior from character criticize the choice, not the child. 

• Keep communication open, even when conversations are uncomfortable. 

 

Common Middle School Challenges 

Families often navigate: 

• Shifting friendships, popularity, and social drama 

• Gossip, mean behavior, and bullying 

• Homework struggles and school stress 

• Growing independence around technology, relationships, and identity 

These challenges are normal, appropriate, and manageable with support and partnership. 

 

How Parents Can Help 

• Coach, don’t control: guide decision-making rather than solving everything. 

• Name feelings: help kids put words to what they’re experiencing. 

• Focus on strengths: notice effort, growth, and character. 

• Partner with the school: schools and families work best together. 

• Model balance and self-compassion: kids learn from what they see. 

 

A Helpful Question to Keep in Mind 

“What is my child trying to learn through this experience—and how can I support that learning?” 

Middle school is a journey. With empathy, patience, and connection, we can help students grow into confident, capable adolescents. 

--- Adapted from the Parent Discussion Guide in Middle School Matters. 

 

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We are excited to host the event again this year on Wednesday, April 22nd, from 8 AM to 3 PM (setup will be Tuesday afternoon). We would love for you to be part of it again!  Each country’s table will receive $125 in support, and lunch will be provided for all volunteers. If you are unable to host a table, we would still appreciate your help with various tasks throughout the day.  The more the merrier.  

If you are interested in participating, please click HERE  to sign up. Your time and creativity make a meaningful impact, helping our school community grow stronger each year.

We hope you will join us for this special event.

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Good Luck Audrey at the City Competition!!! 

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A Note From Our School Nurse- School Safety 

If your student is using any medications, over the counter or prescription, please note that they must be registered with our school nurse. 

The District has a specific Request for Medication to be Taken During School Hours Form for all medications, regardless of whether prescribed or over the counter - they must be documented on that form for each medication separately.

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