2021.3.26 – Saxe Weekly – The Saxe weekly

March 26, 2021

Dear Saxe Family,

As we round out the last full week of March and head towards the April break, we are reminded how quickly time flies. While this year has been filled with events and circumstances unlike anything that we have ever experienced, time marches on. It is important for us to remember to pause every once in a while and be grateful for everything that we have in front of us, in the moment. I am reminded of this often as I make daily rounds around the building. Whether it is in a classroom in session, students celebrating with fun outfits, or seeing teams interacting and enjoying recess, there is a sense of pride and appreciation for the commitment and dedication that our staff and students exhibit daily. This is what makes Saxe special, especially now…

This week in the Saxe Weekly, you will see some of this come to life as we take a look at Social Studies, Science, Spanish, LOTS of Saxe Spirit, and important travel reminder, Saxe Clubs, The NC Color Drop, NCPS Mascots, Mock Trial, mental health support/services, some birthdays, some artwork, the Library March Madness brackets, some sights around Saxe, and more! Enjoy and have a wonderful weekend.

Be Well,

Dave Gusitsch

Principal, Saxe Middle School

Upcoming Noteworthy Dates:

3/31: 1/2 Day for students, Professional Learning for staff; NC Color Drop

4/1: NC Color Drop (Rain Date)

4/2: April Break – ENJOY!

*Quotes that resonated with us this week:

“It took me quite a long time to develop a voice, and now that I have it, I am not going to be silent.”

-Madeleine Albright

“The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate.”

-Oprah Winfrey

“I attribute my success to this: I never gave or took any excuse.”

-Florence Nightingale

“When you get into a tight place and everything goes against you, till it seems as though you could not hold on a minute longer, never give up then, for that is just the place and time that the tide will turn.” -Harriet Beecher Stowe

“Never underestimate the power of dreams and the influence of the human spirit. We are all the same in this notion: The potential for greatness lives within each of us.”

-Wilma Rudolph

Important travel reminder:

All travelers should quarantine for 10 days upon returning to CT from another state (besides NY, NJ, RI) or a country unless:

You test negative within 72 hours of return, or after returning, to CT.
You’ve recovered from a positive COVID-19 infection within 90 days.
Your stay was less than 24 hours.
You’re fully-vaccinated (14-days after the last shot)

Social Studies: Grade 8

On Thursday we were pleased to have Judge Victor Bolden and Mrs. Hellmann (attorney) visit us (via Zoom webinar) to explain the independent role of judges and the Rule of Law in our country. Judge Bolden is a United States District Judge for the District of Connecticut. The American Bar Association which sponsors the event each year says, “These local leaders believe in our legal system and the importance of independent judges to preserve democracy. Civics education which promotes understanding of the role of the judiciary provides vital support for the function of this “least understood” branch of government.” Attorneys and judges visit schools each year in March for this program. Students and their teachers have the opportunity to ask questions. It was a fascinating glimpse into the judicial branch of government. We were privileged to have both with us for this special event.

Science

This week in science, the 8th grade green team simulated the process of mutation and natural selection. Students mimicked various traits in a fictional alien species to show how mutations can cause new traits. Students discovered that the new traits can be helpful, harmful, or neutral depending on which task they had to complete. Students then “designed” the alien best suited to its environment.

Spanish

In Senora McMahon’s class, 7th graders are wrapping up a unit on the restaurant. Here the students are practicing their ordering and serving skills, and some even whipped up a tasty entrée!

Saxe Spirit

This week was about more than just spirit. The Spirit Club & Student Leadership Team joined forces to develop CHARTER WEEK. This initiative and inaugural endeavor was created to combine our Charter Words (Comfortable, Happy, Included, Respected, Safe), 5 Cs (Celebrate, Community, Caring, Commitment, Communication), Middle Level Education Month, and Spirit Days. It was amazing to see how enthusiastic and involved our respective clubs have been and our student body did not disappoint! Enjoy a few pics from this week:

Monday – Charter: Happy; C: Celebrate; Theme: Neon

Tuesday – Charter: Comfortable; C: Caring; Theme: Clash

Wednesday – Charter: Respected; C: Communication; Theme: College

Thursday – Charter: Safe; C: Commitment; Theme: Career

Friday – Charter: Included; C: Community; Theme: United

Saxe Clubs

A special “thanks” to the Garden Club! They did some Spring cleaning in the Hawk’s Nest Courtyard where students and faculty enjoy lunch when the weather is nice! Your hard work is appreciated!

NC Color Drop

The NC COLOR DROP is next Wednesday – buy your golf ball today before someone else claims it! 100% of the funds raised go towards scholarships for our NCHS graduates.

For more information or to purchase your ball, click HERE.

And, check out our awesome Saxe Hawk interacting with the rest of the NCPS cool characters to promote this meaningful event!

Mock Trial

Last night, the Third Annual Saxe Mock Trial Competition was held. Students prepared for months, practicing their scripts as witnesses, drafting questions, as attorneys, and collaborating their theories of the case. Students ranged between 5 – 8 grades. All this was done virtually through Zoom. These students went well above and beyond and deserve a shout-out for their effort and dedication. We also congratulate and thank their awesome advisors, Ms. Adrian and Mr. Fusci!

Mental Health Support/Resources

Dial 211 or 1-800-203-1234 – 24 hours a day for crisis mental health services and information/referral.

Kids in Crisis – (203) 661-1911 – available 24 hours a day for confidential crisis counseling and advice for youth and families.

“Talk it Out” – a helpline available to provide parents support during stressful times- 1-833-258-5011. (M-F, 8:00-8:00; S-S 1:00-8:00)

New Canaan Cares – 203-966-7862, is another community resource that offers parents support and access to community resources to strengthen youth and families

Domestic Violence Assistance: – 1-888-774-2900, Connecticut Safe Connect offers a 24 hour helpline (call or text) and information and referral

Talking About It A community resource offering monthly podcasts on a variety of topics to reduce stigma around mental health, and to promote healthy relationships.

Financial Resources/ Community Information

Community organizations are available to assist families in need with lunches over the weekends and during the summer. Please contact your counselor, social worker, or principal if you would like more information. You can also contact Susan Bliss, Student Support Coordinator, susan.bliss@ncps-k12.org.

New Canaan Youth and Family Services – 203-594-3081, are available for help with financial assistance, and information and referral to other community resources.

Sights Around Saxe

What’s better than hearing about a birthday at a.m. drop off? (Happy birthday, Kate!)

Hearing about a “double birthday” at a.m. drop off! Happy Birthday to these two!

What does Saxe look like on a beautiful day at 1:45 on a Friday? Ms. Fulco’s class is “finishing through the finish line” as they silently read and take notes to get ready for a class discussion on the Roman Empire. Great focus and nice work!