Friday, November 20, 2009

SchoolCenter Picture A Message from Mr. Kea SchoolCenter Picture

I would like to thank all those who have offered me such a warm and encouraging welcome to this school. I am enthusiastic about the future of this school and the success of the students in its care. Many people have contributed to the success and achievements of Warsaw Middle School and these people have made this school prosper and grow to where it is today; I am excited to be a part of this community.

The school grounds and building, the presentation, cleanliness and the thoughtful use of learning space have impresses me. I am amazed at the energy of the people who share the space as a working and learning environment; by this I mean teachers, support staff and parents.

I have met quite a few parents, and indeed intend to meet you all! The parents I have had the pleasure to speak with are all concerned for their children's safety and are able to express their dreams and aspirations for their children's future success. The families are open and friendly, and above all, caring. We will strike up a terrific working relationship, one that at all times supports the learning of each of our students and that gives a notion of "shared responsibility" for all facets to Warsaw Middle School.

The teachers are a highly committed group of professional. I have been impressed by their attention to detail, their knowledge of teaching and learning and their desire to facilitate the best possible learning environment for all. Warsaw Middle School is indeed fortunate to have such a strong and well-informed educational influence available for your children. They are a great example of Teamwork in action.

The students of Warsaw Middle School are a vital and happy group who have also made me feel welcome. Many children have come to speak with me, to ask me questions about my experiences and my family.

High Expectations For All

The Warsaw Middle School staff is committed to high expectations for all. Helping students reach their potential requires planning, individualization, and teaching strategies that reach all students. We find that if we expect a lot from our students they can often surprise us with how much they can achieve.

Engaged Learners

Engaging our students is critical to their academic success. Out staff values a connected of integrated curriculum that reaches across subject areas and ties them together while exploring their relationships. As we implement the state standards we try to expand opportunities to study complex topics based on real world issues. For example, one such study might be focused on the water quality in our community as it connects to scientific research, mathematics, social studies, and research skills.

Lifeskills

Students at Warsaw Middle School learn about responsibility, respect, and problem solving. Our goal is to create a caring environment that assists students with developing those skills that will carry them through life such as initiative and flexibility. The staff at Warsaw Middle School uses this language with students and we encourage parents to do the same so that there is consistency and a stronger foundation.

Cooperative Learners

Cooperative learning is a tool we frequently use to develop social skills and it provides a valuable foundation for life as a worker, family member, and citizen. Working together students learn the skills of collaborating, managing responsibilities in a group, and resolving conflicts.

Comprehensive Assessment

Our staff strives to expand assessment tools beyond test scores to include a detailed and continuous profile of a student's progress. Teachers, parents, and individual students can closely monitor academic strengths and weaknesses in order to focus on areas that need improvement and celebrate achievements. This also allows teachers to modify instructional strategies and assignments to meet the needs of each child.

Community

We seek to build strong partnerships with our parents. Our belief at Warsaw Middle School is that students learn more when parents are involved with their education and school. Parent participation is welcomed in classrooms, PTO, and other committees. Teachers also offer opportunities for parents to attend workshops of training sessions on literacy and math.

At Warsaw Middle School we value each child as an individual and strive to meet their needs both academically and socially. Warsaw Middle School has many strengths. It is seen as a solid, yet innovative school where children find a safe and nurturing environment. While the staff is relatively diverse, we share a common child-centered focus based upon understanding about child development, learning styles, multiple intelligences, and other factors that create a kaleidoscope of differences in every classroom.



Mr. Leon Kea