Dear Mullica Families,
I am pleased to welcome you to the 2022-23 school year at Mullica Township Middle School. The first day of school is September 6, 2022. Students may begin to arrive at 8:30, and must be in homeroom by 8:40. Student dismissal is at 3:25. Students in all grades may be dropped off in the front drop off/pick up loop and students 3-8 have the option to use the rear drop off/pick up loop.
Now that the majority of COVID-19 restrictions are behind us, we can embrace the social events that make Middle School a very special time for students. Some of the exciting things I am thrilled to see this school year are the return to more flexible student groupings, the reduced need for social distancing, the freedom for students to choose their table mates at lunch, school dances, school-wide assemblies, and more. Other special programs being continued this year include the middle school Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) program and the Exploratory program. Exploratory allows students to explore content that is not part of our usual curriculum and make lasting connections with fellow students and teachers while sharing a common interest. Teachers will oversee classes on topics that are outside of their usual content area or an extension of their content. We have teachers skilled in creative writing, robotics, mindfulness, fitness, etc. Students will be able to choose the class in which they would like to participate on a trimester basis. Additional information and class selection booklets will be provided in late September.
Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) are an integral part of our school community. This year our PBIS theme is Celebrate the Coyote Calling. Each month a trait of the calling will be highlighted and celebrated. We invite all students to join in the celebration and show their Coyote spirit by wearing Mullica Spirit Wear, or green and white clothing during the first week of school. Please look for additional information during the first week of school on how you can use PBIS Rewards to track your child’s PBIS Points and communicate with teachers.
The safety and security of our school community are a priority for the Mullica Township School District. Two School Resource Officers (SROs) maintain the security of our building and grounds. As mandated, New Jersey Schools practice for emergency situations by conducting a Fire Drill and a School Safety Drill every month. Our staff will ensure that students are prepared in the case of an emergency. At the conclusion of each drill, students and staff will hear an announcement that the drill has ended and families will be notified of the drill.
Our commitment to our students’ social-emotional well-being continues to be a priority. The district has continued its partnerships with AtlantiCare and the Youth Advocacy Program. These programs have brought Ms. Emily Chau and Heather Costello into the Mullica school community. In partnership with our school counselor, Mr. Bill Maher, they are here to support students with the social-emotional challenges students face.
In preparation for the school year, please ensure you are able to access your child’s schedule and grades on the OnCourse Parent Portal. Taking the time to review the Middle School Student Handbook with your child will ensure that they are prepared to meet the expectations at school. Finally, all students will continue to be provided with a Chromebook to be used at school and home. Students are responsible for ensuring their device remains damage free, with the exception of wear and tear. The district offers optional Chromebook Insurance to parents to cover some of the costs that may be incurred if a student accidentally damages their Chromebook. More information on Chromebooks and insurance can be found here.
Collaboration between families and teachers is essential for student success, please plan to attend Back to School Night on September 21st to learn more about what is planned for your child this year. Mullica Township Schools are fortunate to have a very active Parent Teacher Association (PTA), that supports many activities for our students. Please consider joining the PTA and getting involved in our school.
I look forward to working together with families to make the 2022-23 school year fun and engaging for all of our learners. Please contact me with any questions or concerns.
Respectfully,
Maris C. Lynn
Principal