Summer, 2021

Dear Smith Academy Middle School Students, Parents, & Guardians,

Greetings! Here is some information about school supplies middle school students will need for the upcoming school year and a summary of some important academic guidelines. Full academic polices can be found in the school handbook.

We look forward to an exciting academic year, full of stimulating challenges.

The Smith Academy Middle School Team

SMITH ACADEMY MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHERS

Backpack Policy

Students are not permitted to carry backpacks or bags during the school day unless with prior permission from the school nurse for medical purposes. Backpacks and bags may be used to transport books to and from school. Students have time to go to their lockers after every two classes. Our reasons for continuing this policy include a concern for students’ safety, a need for safe passage in classrooms and hallways, and a desire to promote organizational skills. Please note that school lockers are narrow (about 9” wide) and some larger backpacks don’t fit in them.

Homework Assignment Notebook

The school will provide a homework assignment notebook to all middle school students. We write homework assignments on our whiteboards, explain what students are expected to do, remind students to write down the assignment in their assignment book, and give them sufficient time to do so every day. In addition, students and parents will be able to access information about learning goals and class assignments for core academic classes through our online weekly overviews.

Notebooks and Binders

For each class, students will need a section of a binder, a folder and a notebook (or a place to write or take notes). Here's what we recommend:

• Two or three three binders (1-1 ½” three ring): A system that works well is one binder dedicated to English and Social Studies/Civics, another to Math and Science, and a third for afternoon classes.  
• Several pocket folders (one for each class) in which to store handouts. Plastic folders hold up better than paper, and three-hole punched folders help keep binders organized.
• For each class, students should also have single-subject notebooks or a dedicated section of a binder with lined paper for class notes.

It is important that students develop good habits about storing handouts in folders and binders. Tucking papers into textbooks is not an effective organizational strategy, and it can ruin the book. This may result in a fine for replacing or rebinding the book at the end of the year. Examples of how students have organized their binders can be found here.

Other Supplies

In addition to a binder, folder and notebook, students should always bring pencils to each class. Some teachers require additional supplies:

Art

• Pencil case, stocked with pens and pencils (including about 12 high quality wooden pencils, such as Ticonderoga brand)
• One "Scotch-Brite" type sponge (yellow sponge with green scouring pad)

English

• One subject notebook (three hole punched) for Ms. Guiel’s English class (Interactive Notebook)
• One glue stick and scissors for Ms. Guiel’s Interactive Notebook.
• A three hole punched pocket folder for English.

Math

• Calculator (A basic calculator is fine; a limited number of graphing calculators are available for students to use in class. Graphing calculator apps are an inexpensive and useful option for students who have handheld devices such as phones and iPods, but these cannot be used during tests.)
• Composition notebook and plenty of loose leaf paper.

Health

• Subject notebook (to leave in class)

Students can bring supplies to school on the first day and staff will help them get set up. Supplies will need to be replenished periodically throughout the year. Please check your student’s supplies from time to time to see if it is time to restock.

Computers

Smith Academy computers are PCs.  Students have school-issued Google accounts, and we use Google Drive for most assignments, which can be accessed from any computer connected to the Internet.

Physical Education

Students will need to bring sneakers (no hiking boots or platform sneakers), t-shirt & shorts (optional: sweatshirt, sweatpants).  Please: no tank tops or clothing with inappropriate language or artwork.

Contacting us

Faculty at Smith Academy can be reached by phone at the school or by e-mail:

firstinitiallastname@hatfieldps.net