1. education
2. school

Dear Parents:
The second semester for the 2014/15 school year has arrived. The third marking period began
on Monday, January 26th. Report cards, for those students whose parents are not on parent
portal, were mailed on or around January 30th.
We will hold our building-level Spelling Bee Competition on Thursday, February 5th, at 2:30pm
in the MS/HS auditorium. Fifteen students who qualified through their grade-level Spelling Bee
will compete for a chance to go to the Scripps Regional Spelling Bee, to be held in March at
General Brown High School.
Our next awards assembly will be held on Thursday, February 26th, 2015 beginning at 9:00 am.
The week of February 9th is Spirit Week. Students will enjoy wearing a variety of attire each day.
On Tuesday, February 10th, there will be a Dress for Success Day where middle school students
are invited to get together in the middle school gym from 2:30 – 3:30 for music and dancing.
School will not be in session for the mid-winter recess from February 16th, through February 20th.
Classes will resume on Monday, February 23rd.
The Wellness/Fitness Center is now open to the community. Check the school website calendar
for hours of operation.
Sincerely,
Michael Bashaw, Jr.
Principal
To be able and willing to persuade, guide, and direct others in a certain
direction.
Grade 6: Haylee Alteri, Kennady Amo, Hunter Bismarck, Chase Brooks, Dereck Cupernall, Alex Davis, Kyle
DeLuke, Ashley Forkey, Nick Fox, Drew Fulmer, Ava Handley, Xander Howard, Micah Ingerson, Mia
Jongeneel, Jenna Leone, Connor MacKay, Nick Mason, Sam Madison, Holden Manning, Mari Matthews,
Rachel Ramie, Emma Resch, Olivia Riddoch, Jack Thompson, Natalie Wetterhahn, Roree Wilkie, Harrison
Wood, Evan Youngs.
Grade 7: Tommy Bannister, Gabe Clement, Megan Kilborn, Lanie Lindsey, Luke Riddoch, Claudia Wedel.
Grade 8: Matthew Barton, Logan Beerman, Kelsy Dennie, Hannah Ingerson, Hunter McFarland, Jason
Reprogle, Antonio Rodriguez, Ariana Strong, Kira Votra, Alita White.
Several articles of clothing have been turned in to the Middle School office. Please have your
student(s) stop by to see if any of the found items belong to them. Items that remain in the
office after Friday, February 13th, will be donated to charity.
Special Educator’s Corner
Tim Lauraine
Many times students, as well as parents, will ask me exactly how to study. Studying is not hard but learning
how to best study for you takes some work. Here are a few ways that may help you learn how best to study:
√ Say or repeat the information – daily is best
√ Type or write the information
√ Break it into small chunks: chunking
√ Make it into a song
√ Draw or chart the information
√ Make 3 x 5 cards
√ Create a story
√ Have a friend ask you questions
√ Teach the material to someone else
√ Elaborate on the facts
√ Associate it with something you can remember
√ Invite some friends in your class over and have a study group
√ Make a mnemonic device – in fourteen hundred ninety two, Columbus sailed the ocean blue . . . . .
Reviewing the information for 20 minutes may be enough to study the important science vocabulary or
practice a new math formula. The important thing is to do something that works for you.
If you have any “special” questions feel free to contact me at [email protected].
7th Grade Science Happenings
Mrs. Bowman
Seventh grade science classes will be starting a unit on living things and classification. Students will
learn an array of new vocabulary terms and will also work on classification. In January students had
the opportunity to participate in whale classification activities compliments of Cornell University. In
February students will further their classifying skills by working with dichotomous key labs focused on
local trees and fish common to the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River.
As always you can find out weekly assignments in seventh grade science
by checking my website. Go to the school’s homepage, click on district,
teachers, and my name.
Counselor’s Corner – Mrs. Bartlett
Parents of Sixth Grade Students
Your child will attend a foreign language presentation in French and Spanish. The presentation by the
foreign language teachers will give your child the opportunity to obtain information on both languages
that are offered here at Thousand Islands.
In the third quarter your child will be choosing a foreign language and a music selection for the 20152016 school year.
The following are course choices that your child will have next year:
French or Spanish (once chosen your child must continue with the same language)
*Band, *Choir, or *Guitar
*Band, *Choir, or *Guitar guidelines for adding or dropping:
Students must stay in the music they chose for the remainder of the school year; they cannot drop that
music choice. A student can however add choir after the Holiday Concert in December.
ALL seventh grade students are required to take one of the following: Band, Choir, or Guitar.
Parents of Seventh Grade Students
If your child chooses band and/or choir they will be required to stay in the class for the entire eighth grade year.
If your child has taken band/choir or guitar in the seventh grade they will not be required to take music in the eighth
grade but are encouraged to continue with their band or choir class.
Parents of Eighth Grade Students
During the week of February 23rd, the high school counselors will be presenting
to the eighth graders in their Family & Consumer Science classes. Students will
learn more about the New York State graduation requirements, and will have the
opportunity to request their courses for their ninth grade year. A follow up letter will be sent home to parents in
March, which will include their child’s course selections for the 2015-2016 school year, core classes (English, Social
Studies, Science, Math, and Foreign Language) as well as Physical Education and Fine Arts class (Studio Art, Band,
Choir, or Design & Drawing for Production).
In June eighth grade students will learn more about the transition to high school directly from current ninth and
tenth grade students. Students will hear about what the first day of high school is like, high school teacher
expectations, and how high school is different from middle school directly from current high school students.
FACS NEWS – MRS. CURTIS
FACS Club Welcomes Guest Speaker
COMING SOON . . . Bake for Good Kids!
It’s a free educational program put on by the
King Arthur Flour Company. On March 4th, a
representative from the company will be
coming to present a bread baking assembly
for the sixth and seventh graders. Students
will learn to make bread from scratch. They’ll
discover that math, science, reading, and
baking know-how all add up to delicious
bread! At the end of the school day each
student will be given the recipe, the
ingredients, and other materials so that they
can bake a couple loaves of bread at home.
Your family can enjoy the
bread with an evening meal.
The only thing we ask is that
each student would bring back the other loaf
to be donated to a local food pantry.
At the last FACS Club meeting, on January 14th, the
students enjoyed having Mrs. Lynette Chapman,
Cafeteria Manager here at TICS, as a special speaker.
She shared that recently there have been more
students taking advantage of the breakfast foods
offered early each morning in the cafeteria. This may
indicate that more of the students are realizing that
breakfast is important for their ability to learn better
in school. For those students who rush out of the
house every morning without breakfast, the food
items offer some energy to begin their day. The
members of the club asked Mrs. Chapman questions
about the lunch menus and she shared some of the
criteria and regulations that she uses to create the
menus. She also willingly received some ideas from
the students for use in the future.
6th Grade FACS – Food Unit
The students in the sixth grade are getting an
opportunity to prepare some foods and then
taste them. In December they made
Christmas cookies and in January they made
some quick breads. All of the breads were
successfully made, looked and tasted great!
As they sampled each bread, they were given
the task of comparing the taste, appearance,
and texture, along with the nutrition and the
time each would take to prepare. Next week
they will learn how to make Focaccia bread.
The students really enjoyed the day when a
local chef, Christian Ives, came into the
classroom and demonstrated safe knife
techniques when cutting up vegetables and
fruits.
8th Grade FACS – Careers
The eighth graders have been learning about the
process of actually getting a job. They have each filled
out a Job Application and created a personal resume.
They learned the difference between a friendly letter
and a business letter. They then wrote a cover letter
to be sent off with their resume. There has also been
some class discussion about interviewing. On
February 3rd they will each have the experience of
being interviewed by an adult.
Student Council has been working hard to plan our middle school Spirit Week, February 9 th – February 13th.
There are some very special events planned. The following dress themes have been selected:
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Monday – Pajama Day
Tuesday – Wear Your Best, Dress for Success Day
Wednesday – Favorite Sports Team Day
Thursday – Twin/Multiple Day
Friday – Unity Day
On Friday students are asked to wear the unity shirt given to them by the PTO. Homeroom counts will be
done each day and prizes will be given to the homerooms whose dress shows the most spirit.
On Tuesday, Dress for Success Day, middle school students are invited to a get-together in the middle school
gym from 2:30 – 3:30. Students will be able to listen to music and dance.
On Wednesday, Favorite Sports Team Day, Student Council members will track and tally our overall middle
school favorite sports team based upon student dress. It will be fun to see which sports team our middle
school supports the most.
Math 7 – Ms. Roux
Can you believe it is already February? We are more than half-way through the
school year! As we begin this quarter we will be really buckling down and preparing
for the State Assessments. If you haven’t had a chance to look at the Engageny website,
I encourage that you take a look. The website has a section for parents that you may find useful.
I have enough Casio scientific calculators for all students to use during classes as well as on the assessment.
However, I am not able to have these leave my room, to assure that they will be here for the testing. You are
welcome to purchase a calculator for home use. Any scientific calculator is allowed to be used on the tests.
If your child wants to use their own calculator they are welcome to do so, however, they need to make sure
they know how to use the functions, as I am unable to help during testing. The State Math Test is April 22 nd,
23rd, and 24th.
Many of our students are getting low on writing utensils and supplies. Would you please ask your child how
this situation is for them? Teachers are running extremely low on writing utensils and paper, and are at risk
of depleting our own reserves. I would appreciate it if you would ask if your child needs some pencils or
other supplies. They do need to use loose leaf paper for their homework most nights, which is assigned four
nights a week.
Enjoy your winter break and stay safe!
COMMUNITY PRESENTATION ON DRUG USE
THOUSAND ISLANDS HIGH SCHOOL WILL BE SPONSORING A
PRESENTATION ON THE ISSUE OF DRUG ABUSE IN OUR SCHOOLS
AND COMMUNITY. THE PRESENTATION WILL TAKE PLACE AT
THE END OF FEBRUARY. WATCH FOR ADDITIONAL
INFORMATION TO COME HOME WITH YOUR STUDENT,
INFORMATION ON OUR WEBSITE, WWW.1000islandsschools.org
AND IN THE THOUSAND ISLANDS SUN.
Sixth Grade Band
Mrs. Wiley
This month in sixth grade band we have discussed and practiced the difference between legato and
staccato, dynamics, tempo, and balance. We have learned our concert B flat scale and practiced
watching the conductor while playing this scale. We continue to work on achieving the best
possible sound on our instruments. We have also talked about tuning our instruments; what it is
and how to do it. I continue to be impressed with the effort these band students are putting forth
on their instruments.
The band has two of their concert pieces and is working hard! Our first performance will be the
Sixth Grade Band and Choir Tour and then the Middle School Spring Concert.
Many members of the sixth grade band have also decided to participate in NYSSMA Solo-Festival in
April. These students will be preparing solos and scales to be played in front of a judge on
Saturday, April 18th. This is a great way to enhance their musicianship skills.
7th/8th Grade Band
Mrs. Wiley
The 7th/8th grade band continues to develop their musicianship skills during band rehearsal and lessons. The
band has a great blend and balance as they work on concert music. These will also be the pieces that we will
be competing with at the NYSSMA Majors Festival in May.
Please continue to encourage your instrumentalist to play their instrument at home. They should be playing
from their Method Books, NYSSMA Solos, and band music.
Many members of the 7th/8th band have also decided to participate in NYSSMA Solo-Festival in April. These
students will be preparing solos and scales to be played in front of a judge, on Saturday, April 18th. These
students have gone above and beyond by preparing a NYSSMA Solo. Thank you for making yourselves better!
Keep up the great work and remember to enjoy your music!
7th/8th Guitar – Mrs. Ingerson
Student guitarists have had a very successful first half of the year!
They have learned to play and read the notes on the first four strings and
are getting quite good at sight-reading new material. We have also learned tablature.
This is exciting because most contemporary music that is published for guitar is written this way. We have also
found that it has reinforced the students’ understanding of note-reading and finger position. Our knowledge of
chords and strumming has advanced to full C & G Chords (Eleanor Rigby, Duke of Earl, and Tell Ol’ Bill) and now
includes Em & D7. A more complex strumming pattern of down and up strokes are gradually being incorporated
into these pieces as well as a pick-strum technique where the bass notes are plucked first. We have had our first
opportunity to play a duet with another classmate as we learned the French folksong, Au Claire de la Lune.
6th Grade Choir
Mrs. Ingerson
January has been a great month for all sixth grade vocal musicians. We have been spending much time
sharpening our sight-reading skills in the key of C and F major. This has helped our overall musicianship and has
assisted us in preparing for our Spring Concert music. We have successfully learned a three-part round, I Music,
Sweet Music, and have started working on our spring concert repertoire. We will include some popular favorite
selections and some good concert choir repertoire choices. We have lots of movement and solo opportunities
planned for this program which includes: We go Together, (from Grease), Manx Lullaby, Galop, 50 Great States,
and Boats That Sail on the Rivers.
7th/8th Grade Choir
Mrs. Ingerson
7th/8th grade choir has had a tremendous month building their sight-singing skills. We devote 10 minutes of each
first rehearsal a week toward the goal of achieving successful sight-reading and solfege work with sing back
patterns! So far we have focused on C and F major. We will be adding the keys of G and Eb major, using the
sight-reading criteria from the NYSSMA manual. We have also been spending most of our time learning new
pieces. Our spring repertoire will feature them in a traditional Appalachian fiddle tune called Shady Grove. As we
develop this piece it will also include a fiddler from our group, along with non-traditional percussion that will
typify this style. Other selections will include a Zambian call and response style piece called Bonse Aba, Hallelujah
from Shreck, a beautiful piece called I Was Here by Lady Antebellum, and an English madrigal, Sing We and Chant
It.
Congratulations again to all Bi-County Junior High Chorus participants on your selection to the Spring Festival
Chorus: Lily Connerton, Ailene Lindsey, Kassandra Votra, Logan Beerman, Alyssa Nugara, Aidan Sullivan, Jonathan
Clark, Lonnie Campany, and Luke Riddoch. These middle school students will join others from 25 school districts,
representing T.I., as part of the JLCMTA Junior High Chorus at the annual Spring Bi-County Festival on February
27th & 28th at South Jefferson. The first preparatory rehearsal is on Thursday, February 12th. Rehearsals will be
held again on Monday Feb. 23rd and Thursday, Feb. 26th. Prior to these rehearsals all students will be given music
and a CD of their particular part so they can practice and have the music learned before February 12th. On the
festival rehearsal days students will take the bus to South Jeff. A bus schedule will be published shortly.
NYSSMA sign-ups are now complete. All students who signed up to prepare a NYSSMA Solo should make weekly
arrangements to see Mrs. Ingerson to choose and practice their solo. A practice CD will be provided upon
request.
Don’t forget about the Annual
Valentine’s Day Dessert Theater
and Silent Auction
Featuring T.I. High School Select Vocal Ensemble
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
Doors open: 6:15 PM
Music: 7:00 PM
Emceed by Mr. Mel Busler of Channel 7 News
All proceeds benefit the Select Vocal Ensemble fund raising efforts
toward their trip to NYC in April
Tickets can be purchased through any Vocal Ensemble member or by requesting them through
Kathryn Ingerson @ [email protected]
MONDAY
TUESDAY
2
Ham Sandwich
Or
Shrimp Poppers
w/Cocktail Sauce
Rice
Green Beans
9
Ham Sandwich
Or
Bosco Cheese Filled
Breadsticks
Spaghetti Sauce
Green Beans
16
3
Turkey Sandwich
Or
Soft Shell Taco
w/Lettuce, Cheese,
and Salsa
Baked Beans
10
Turkey Sandwich
Or
BBQ Rib Sandwich
Seasoned Corn
WEDNESDAY
4
Ham Sandwich
Or
Grilled Cheese
Sandwich
Tomato Soup
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
6
Tuna Sandwich
Or
Cheese Pizza
Romaine Salad
w/Dressing
17
11
Ham Sandwich
Or
Chicken Patty on a
Bun
French Fries
Carrot Sticks
18
5
Turkey Sandwich
Or
Hamburger on a
Whole Wheat Bun
Tater Tots
Carrot Sticks
12
Turkey Sandwich
Or
Hot Dog on a Bun
Macaroni and
Cheese
Baked Beams
19
NO SCHOOL
NO SCHOOL
NO SCHOOL
NO SCHOOL
NO SCHOOL
23
Ham Sandwich
Or
French Toast Sticks
w/Syrup
Sausage Patty
Hash Brown
24
Turkey Sandwich
Or
Nacho Grande
w/Cheese and Salsa
Baked Beams
25
Ham Sandwich
Or
Cheeseburger on a
Whole Grain Bun
Waffle Fries
26
Turkey Sandwich
Or
Chicken Nuggets
Mashed Potato
w/Gravy
Green Beans
27
Tuna Sandwich
Or
Personal Pan Pizza
Romaine Salad
w/Dressing Cup
USDA Is An Equal Opportunity Provider And Employer
Menu Is Subject To Change Without Notice
13
Tuna Sandwich
Or
Stuffed Crust Pizza
Romaine Salad
w/Dressing
20
February
Thousand Islands
K–8
Lunch Menu
Daily Entrée Choices
PBJ Sandwich
Yogurt Parfait
Salad w/Grilled Chicken and
Dinner Roll
Choice of Sides
Fresh Fruit
Canned Fruit
Applesauce Cup
Choice of
Fat Free White Milk
1% White Milk
Fat Free Chocolate Milk
THOUSAND ISLANDS MIDDLE SCHOOL CALENDAR
FEBRUARY 2015
SUNDAY
1
8
2
9
MONDAY
Day 6
Day 5
3
*BOE Mtg. –
6pm
10
Day 6
15
*Faculty Mtg.
– 2:30pm
16
17
22
23
24
Day 4
TUESDAY
Day 1
Day 5
*DLT Mtg. –
3:30pm
*BOE Mtg. –
6pm
WEDNESDAY
4
Day 2
5
THURSDAY
Day 3
6
FRIDAY
Day 4
SATURDAY
7
*Grade 6
Foreign
Language
*MS Spelling
Demonstration Bee – 2:30pm
11
Day 1 12
Day 2
*Wear Red
Day
13
Day 3
14
*HS Select
Vocal Dessert
Theater
18
*Bi-County
Festival
Rehearsal
19
*Locker CleanOut
*Christopher
Hopper
Presentation
9am
20
21
25
26
27
28
Day 6
*BPT Mtg. –
2:30pm Room
117
Day 1
*Awards
Assembly – 3rd
Period
Day 2
*Bi-County
Festival
Rehearsal
*Bi-County
Festival
T. I. Middle School
8481 County Rte. 9
Clayton, NY 13624
SCHOOL CLOSING
The decision for closing or delaying the school will normally be made by 6:00am. If school is
closed or delayed, the announcement will be made over Radio Stations: Regents Broadcasting 790 AM WTNY, 1410 AM WUZZ, 93.3 FM WCIZ, 97.5 FM WFRY; Community Broadcasters:
1240 AM WATN, 103.1/100.1/104.3 FM WTOJ Majic, 106.7/92.7 FM WBDI/WBDB The Border,
100.7 FM WOTT Real Rock, 102.7 WBDR KIX Country
TV Stations: TV 7 WWNY, TV 50 WWTI, TV 3 WSTM Syracuse and, News 10 NOW.
In the event that school is delayed, it will always be a two-hour delay. Parents should
be advised that bus students will be picked up two hours later than normal.