Week of October 20, 2008

Beginning of the Second Quarter
This week marks the beginning of the second quarter. Teachers are posting grades for the first quarter report cards which will be mailed out early next week. The 8th graders have an advantage over the 7th graders. They already know how to juggle classes, meet with several different teachers each day, and what to expect. For 7th graders, it’s all brand new. New teachers, new schedules, staying organized, and not falling behind are huge changes for many incoming students. Though the change can be difficult, I believe it is worth the experience.

The middle school years are a great time of change anyway. The adjustments students make during these two years can create wonderful opportunities. I am proud of all our students. I am proud of their ability to adapt, form new friendships, strengthen old ones, try new clubs, go out for sports, and learn new ideas. Next week’s reports card grades will offer a look at how they are doing.

Sports
Let me hear a big Gi-normous YEAH! for our Hawk teams. The boys football team, led by Coach Daryl Lee, swept the Whitney League going undefeated and claiming the championship. Our young men worked hard, played as a team, and rolled over every team in the league. In volleyball, led by Coach Larry Haas, our team claimed a respectable third place. We played against some pretty tough teams who go on to be the same tough competition in high school. Our Lady Hawks know the game and looked as impressive as some high school teams. Way to go ladies! Our cross-country team, led by Coach Robert Steigleder, also captured third in league. Competing against as many as fifteen other schools during the regular season, our runners showed their strength and ability. We have proven Sequoia is now a major contender in sports. Congratulations to all our teams.

Tryouts/sign-up’s for girls basketball, boys soccer, and co-ed gold will be this week. Days and times will be announced at school.

Band
The Sequoia Middle School Marching Band will be performing their fieldshow during halftime at the MHS JV Homecoming football game this Friday night at Rankin Stadium up at Granite Hills High School. Our band is talented and has worked hard at putting this show together. Our students are led by Band Director Jillian Calvao. Come our and support the band. I'm sure you will like what you see and hear as well as get a glimpse at what high school life will look like. See you there!