Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Middle School
Published December 6, 2020
Volume 63
Adam Vinson - Middle School Principal
A MESSAGE FROM MR. VINSON
In Philippians 4:2-3 Paul calls for unity between two women who are at odds with each other. Not only does he affirm the value of each woman, he intentionally does not choose sides. I believe that in a case like this neither woman was technically right in their position or stance. Instead, they shared varying opinions and perspectives about something and were at odds about what to do next. Rather than trying to affirm one as right and one as wrong, Paul appeals to both to seek unity and agreement with each other. The only way this is possible is if both women are willing to take a step back and see the perspective of the other. I find this passage convicting because I am tempted to see myself as right in most situations. What a great reminder that as a believer who is committed to the gospel, I have to strive to see the views of others and be willing to do whatever necessary to pursue unity with those around me, even if I don’t always agree with someone.
LAST WEEK IN CHAPEL
Our middle schoolers competed in our annual Spelling Bee. Congratulations to the following students who will be moving on to the GISA Spelling Bee.
Tucker Boone (8th grade)
Ainsley Lawson (8th grade)
Emma Mauldin (6th grade)
DECEMBER MEMORY VERSE: John 3:16-17 (ESV)
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.
LIONS OF THE WEEK
Congratulations to the following students that were nominated by their teachers for making good choices or setting a good example recently.
6th Grade = Caroline Burgess
7th Grade = Campbell Askew
8th Grade = Bryson Jones
HABITUDES MOMENT
Ask your child about this month’s image that is being focused on in our Habitudes leadership/character development classes.
6th - Fun House Mirror
Carnivals often have mirrors that distort how we really look. Poor leaders do this, pretending or posing to be better than they really are. Our level of integrity is the true reflection of who we are.
7th and 8th - The Calcutta Paradox
Humility is magnetic in a leader. When we “under-speak” in regard to our value, others are drawn toward us and our influence increases. When we “over-speak,” others are repelled. When it comes to self-description, leaders know people will fill what is lacking and empty what is too full.
DISCIPLESHIP DAY
Be praying for God to do great things on Wednesday, December 9. Remember, drop your child off at NCG theatre between 7:45-8:00am. If you need to drop off earlier, we will have limited shuttle service to transport students to NCG theatre from TCS beginning at 7:45am.
Note: Be sure to send your child with a sack lunch as we won’t be offering hot lunch this day due to scheduling conflicts.
MIDDLE SCHOOL EXAM WEEK (Week of Dec. 14) INFORMATION
CALCULATION OF MID-TERM GRADES: Note: All Mid-Term Exams will actually count as a test grade. Exams WILL NOT count as a separate percentage grade as in previous years.
Bible = Final grades will be calculated through assignments given up until Dec. 11 - there will be no assessment given during the exam week.
English = Students will be given a writing assignment in class (the week before exam week) and a reading assessment (exam week) with both assessments being combined into 1 final test grade (weighted as 1 test).
History = Students will give a presentation in class (the week before exam week) and will take a unit test (non-comprehensive, exam week) with both assessments being combined into 1 final test grade (weighted as 2 tests).
Math = Students will take a comprehensive final test (exam week) that will cover all material learned so far this year (weighted as 1 test).
Science = Students will submit a project (the week before exam week - due Dec. 11) and will take a unit test (non-comprehensive, exam week) with both assessments being combined into 1 final test grade (weighted as 2 tests).
*Teachers will be providing information about the History presentation and Science project when we return from Thanksgiving Break so that ample time is given for students to complete all of their work.*
Exam Schedule
Monday-Wednesday (School with half-day dismissal)
NOTE: Please arrive at the appropriate time, and do not arrive earlier to avoid traffic issues.
Students with Pre-K siblings - Dismissal begins at 11 am
Students without Pre-K siblings - Dismissal begins at 11:30 am
Monday - Christmas Breakfast and Exam Review Day
Students will have the chance to enjoy a grade level Christmas party first thing in the morning.
Students will attend class on an abbreviated schedule with a review for exams being the focus.
Tuesday - Science and Math Exams
8:00-8:45 Optional Study Time (students may choose to arrive late and will not be counted tardy as long as they are in the classroom by 8:40)
8:45 Science Exam
9:55 Math Exam
Wednesday - History and English Exams
8:00-8:45 Optional Exam Study Time (students may choose to arrive late and will not be counted tardy as long as they are in the classroom by 8:40)
8:45 History Exam
9:55 English Exam
Thursday (Teacher Workday, Lower School programs - NO SCHOOL for students)
NOTE: Pre-K-3rd grade and 5th-grade Chorus will have Christmas programs taking place on campus throughout the day.
Friday (NO SCHOOL - MERRY CHRISTMAS)
*For students who are unable to be picked up at the half-day dismissal time on Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday, we will provide free care until 3:30 pm. Normal Extended Day rates will apply after 3:30 pm.
EXAM EXEMPTIONS AND CONFLICTS
Students may exempt up to 2 exams (English, History, or Science) if they have a 95% or higher in the class. Exemptions ONLY APPLY to the portion taken during exam week. Students will still be responsible for projects, presentations, and other assignments leading up to exam week. Teachers will communicate exemption eligibility as we get closer to exam week. Exempt students are not required to attend school during the exam they have exempted.
Students needing to take an exam early due to an absence-related issue must submit a Pre-Absence Request Form to Mr. Vinson by Monday, December 7 so that appropriate arrangements can be made.
Reminders
Sick Absences - Be sure to email Adam Vinson (adam.vinson@tcslions.org)
House Competition - Follow along all year www.tcshouses.weebly.com
Staff Contacts
Director of Student Life - Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)
Available to assist with student life-related questions (field trips, parties, etc.), discipline issues, and social and emotional-related challenges
Dean of Students - Ryan Tipton (ryan.tipton@tcslions.org)
Available to assist with disciplinary concerns.