Principal's Message

 

Dear McAuliffe Community,

I am grateful you are here! McAuliffe Middle School has a long history of excellence in academic achievement, and we pride ourselves on student opportunities for connection and belonging. During your time at McAuliffe Middle School, I hope you are able to connect to school through activities, athletics, and the arts. Rooted in Christa McAuliffe's vision to "be yourself, try your best, and never be afraid to dream," the McAuliffe teachers and staff are constantly striving to support students during their middle school years.

In addition to our academic and extracurricular programs, McAuliffe continues to remain focused on student wellness through several initiatives:

• Challenge Success: In the Fall of 2021, McAuliffe entered into partnership with Stanford University to examine school practices and policies that contribute to student stress or student wellness. Moving into the 22/23 school year we have implemented Conflict Calendars in every classroom to help teachers and students understand academic load in every class. We have implemented an additional Nutrition Break between 2nd and 3rd period that will allow for students and staff to have an extra break in their morning schedule. Additionally, beginning later this Fall, we will pilot a Tutorial Schedule to allow students additional time to receive academic support, time to complete homework assignments, opportunities for Social Emotional Learning, and extension lessons.
• "The Corner"--A McAuliffe WellSpace: Continuing our work on student mental health, McAuliffe Students will continue to have access to the McAuliffe WellSpace in Room 7. This space is staffed by one of two mental health professionals at all times and is specifically designed to provide students with a place to receive support for the hard things life throws at us! If your student needs support, please email our school counselor, Mrs. Olmstead (solmstead@losal.org), to coordinate a time to see one of our clinicians, Dr. Jensen or Mrs. Collins.
• Inclusion: Throughout the school year, we will continue to focus on inclusion for all students. Through Cultural Heritage Months, Abilities Awareness Week, PEACE and Kindness Weeks, student clubs, Human Relations Education, and regular Social Emotional Lessons, students at McAuliffe will continue to be exposed to messages of kindness and inclusion. We want all students to feel welcomed and safe when on campus. It is our goal to create a welcoming environment on campus for ALL students that celebrates diversity and the unique ways each person contributes to the McAuliffe community.

Thank you for being here! Please don't hesitate to contact me with any questions you may have.

 

Ryan Weiss-Wright, Ed.D.

Principal

rweisswright@losal.org