Alice Deal Middle School

Think globally - Listen compassionately - Act inclusively  

 

The Weekly Bulletin 

deal modernized
 
Our school mission:
Alice Deal Middle School inspires excellence, curiosity, and compassion through intellectual and social engagement.

What we believe:
All members of the Deal community feel valued, connected, respected, and supported.
deal front        Ecology Field Trip

Principal's message: 

There was an interesting article in the Washington Post this morning about our DCPS middle schools. While I am always excited when our local paper covers our schools, I remain perplexed by the narrow focus these types of articles take. In this case, the article noted that DCPS middle schools continue to struggle, even with some additional funding. For the last few years, this has been a continuing refrain - there is something wonderful happening at Deal, but this doesn't extend to other schools. The loss of students at the DCPS middle schools to competitive middle charter schools is an indication of the lack of parent faith in DCPS schools to deliver. PARCC scores are low. And so forth.

My own children attended one of the lowest performing high schools in Fairfax County. The school was historically identified as having a significant gang problem and realtors steered families away without an ounce of shame. In Fairfax, there are no charter schools yet, so the battle was intensely personal. Of course, there is always a story inside of the story. Many students arrived at that school with little learning under their belts, but teachers were devoted to the community. The spirit in the building was lovely, and students felt cared for. There were actually almost no cliques in the school - and school culture was robust. There was an amazing theater and music (and IB) program. Of course, the gang fight incident had happened 20 years ago - 20 years! - but stuck to the school like gum on a shoe. Parents whose children did go to the school fought its reputation, supported its staff, and kept working on it. The end result - their own children prospered and looked back with fond memories at the hidden gem that really was our experience. Isn't that what we want? I know I did.

In DC, we have history working against us. We talk about principals and reputations and charter schools, but how much do we really know about any school? I was recently in one of the DCPS schools continually treated harshly by the press, and in every classroom students were ready to work, attention was on teaching, and the school culture was growing and robust. How are families supposed to find out about the good that is happening? Charter schools are in the business of recruiting students, so by definition they are not expected to ask for a balanced perspective.  DCPS schools are your schools. These are not the same schools as five or ten or twenty years ago - they are   better . DCPS works harder on what it is trying to do - academically, culturally, structurally, with its leadership - then any other district I know about. The work is difficult - but it is slowly, slowly making a difference. Remember, there were lots of families (there still are) that wouldn't have touched Deal with a 10-foot pole. Perspectives can change - if we are open.

We have to realize that it isn't any one thing that makes schools work - it isn't a principal by themselves, a "correct" feeder elementary pattern. It is whether parents are willing to stay and do the work with the educational team. Deal parents have to work hard at school - we expect them to. We have disruptions in the class - so we have to be held accountable for them as well. Everyday we need to start the day focused on students - and parents help us do that.

This type of article is a self-fulfilling prophecy and it saddens me. This article will live in the Post archives and dampen enthusiasm for years.  Was anyone responsible at a school or instructional superintendent level really asked about what is going on?  My own experience tells me that it won't matter how good the schools are in the end. Reputation and history are everything. Our schools can only continue to improve if we and our neighbors want them to - not if we leave it up to someone else to tell our story and someone else to do the work.

Please excuse the soapbox!

James Albright ( james.albright@dc.gov)

NB. Here is an activity that is not well known, happening at Deal. Some years ago, we made an arrangement with Winner's Lacrosse. Every Spring, students from Deal and other schools make their way to our field and practice lacrosse and play in club games. These lacrosse teams are amazingly reflective of our city. The enthusiasm our students have for lacrosse - brought about by this continuing commitment - is heartening. And good news abounds - a team composed of mostly Deal girls has won their division three years in a row - and this year was undefeated! Keep this activity in mind when you wonder if you know everything about any one school.

2017-2018
DCPS Annual Enrollment 

All students must be enrolled  for the 2017-2018 school year by  June 14th.

Current 5th, 6th and 7th grader's  parents should bring their proof  of residency to the Deal Welcome  Center to complete the pre-printed enrollment  documents starting Monday, April 3rd.  Evening hours are scheduled every  Thursday until 7:00 pm for families who are not able  to come to the school during the  day. 8th graders should take  their proof of residency to the  high school they will attend.

The required residency verification guidelines are attached here.
Updates from the Alice Deal Community Association  (ADCA)
 
There are only a few weeks left in our school year and it feels like it has flown by for us! We  want to say thank you for all you have done to make the year such a success for Deal and our students! 
 
Please Join us of our Next ADCA Meeting & Guest Speaker
Join our next ADCA meeting this Wednesday, May 24 at 6:30 pm . We will meet in the Reno Conference room for a brief ADCA meeting followed by a guest speaker. Pizza and soft drinks will be served. At the meeting, we will discuss open ADCA board positions for next year and hear an update from Principal Albright. Our guest speaker, Dr. Emily Niu, will then talk to us about common sports injuries and how to prevent them.

Emily Niu, MD, is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports. She completed her orthopedics residency training at Stanford University Medical Center and her fellowship in pediatric sports surgery at Boston Children's Hospital. Her clinical and research interests include sports related injuries in children and adolescents such as ACL tears, shoulder labrum tears and instability, hip labrum tears and femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), and osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the knee, elbow, and ankle. Her surgical expertise includes physeal sparing ACL reconstruction, hip arthroscopy, and cartilage restoration.
 
   
Deal Presents: Schoolhouse Rock Jr! Live
This popular musical features Emmy Award and Grammy-nominated songs from the television show of the same name!

What happens when a young schoolteacher lets his nervousness at starting at a new school year get the best of him?  He turns to technology to try to relax. But as he turns on the TV, he finds that the characters from his television come to life in his living room!  This hilarious and entertaining show is for all ages.
 
Showtimes:
June 2 at 6:30 PM
June 3 at 5:00 PM
 
Schoolhouse Rock Jr! Live is being performed entirely by 6th grade students at Deal Middle School. The show runs just under one hour.

 
Important Upcoming Dates
Mark your calendar for these upcoming ADCA and community events:   
  • May 24, 2017, 6:30 p.m. - ADCA Meeting and Guest Speaker
  • June 3, 2017, 5:00 p.m. - School House Rock 6th Grade Musical
As always, please contact Lori at ADCAPresident@gmail.com if you have any questions or concerns.
 
Thanks, 
The ADCA Board
Week of 
May 22, 2017
  Bell Schedule
 
Monday -Bell I ("B" Schedule) 
Tuesday - Bell I ("B" Schedule)
Wednesday - Bell I ("B" Schedule)
Thursday - Bell I ("B" Schedule)
Friday - Bell I  ("B" Schedule)
Upcoming Dates
 
May 23
Principal's Coffee, 9 am
WTU, meeting
 
May 24
ADCA General Meeting, 6:30 pm
 
May 25
Faculty Meeting, 3:30 pm
 
May 26
Deal Tour, 9 am
 
May 29
Memorial Day
No School 
 
June 
1
Ecology Trip - 7th Grade 
8th Grade I&S Civil War DC 
NTD, 3:30 pm

June 2
LSAT, 7:30 am
Karaoke by Music Dept 3:30
8th Grade I&S Civil War DC  
EAP Mini-UN @ Reagan Building, 8am - 3 pm
 
6th Grade Musical; 6:30 pm 
Ecology Trip - 7th Grade 
 
June 3
Saturday Academy 9-12 
Music in the Parks
 
6th grade Musical; 3:00 pm
 
 
June 5
Math & ELA LEAP Seminar; 3:30 - 4:45 
 
June 6
Team Leaders (all), 3:30 pm 
 
June 7
Deal Gives Back
 
June 8
6th Grade Awards (8:45 - 10); Caf., MPR, Aud. 
NJHS Induction
ALT 3:30
WTU Meeting; 3:30 in E200 
Faculty Meeting, 3:30 pm
 
June 9
6th Grade Awards (8:45 - 10); Caf., MPR, Aud. 
8th Gr. Kings Dominion 
 
June 12
6th Grade to Cameron Run; 10 - 3:30 
Deal Day 
8th Gr. Promotion Practice 
8th Gr. Dance 
 
June 13
6th Grade Deal Day; 1:30 - 3:0 0
8th Gr. Promotion 10 am 
 
June 14
Records Day/ Term 4 Ends/ Term 4 Marks due in Aspen; Students dismissed at 12:15 
International Baccalaureate Updates
 
During the month of May, students exlpore design principles through Science 6 and all world language courses. We need your help with some supplies to get this initiative off the ground. Ms. Law and the Science 6 team request the following items: 
  • Glue guns w/glue sticks
  • tacky glue (wood glue)
  • sticky back foam sheets 
  • jumbo wood craft sticks
  • wood skill sticks (building popsicle sticks)
  • wood buttons (for car wheels)
  • mini solar panels
  • Legos
Donated items can be sent to Ms. Brown in C227 or Ms. Law in E101.
The MOST affordable sports camp in DC! Hurry, early bird pricing ends  April 1st! Sibling and multiple week discounts available as well. 

Deal is Hiring!
 
Deal is growing! As our enrollment increases, so does our need for remarkable, dedicated educators. Deal will add two teams next year and will have a number of positions available for the 2017-2018 school year. Talented, engaging teachers are encouraged to apply!
 
 Deal is currently interviewing candidates for English, math, science, social studies, arts (music, visual, dance, or theater), Arabic, and Spanish. If you or someone you know has what it takes to lead the best kids in DC, visit our website to apply
 


We know that some of our best teachers come from referrals from our community and staff. Please consider spreading the word to talented teachers in your conversations and social media posts. Our students deserve the best and Deal is a great place to teach! 
Media Center  News

Center Hours
B efore School 8:00 - 8:40 am
  After School  3:30 - 4:30 pm

 Students are welcome for independent reading and homework. Please review the expectations and complete the permission slip available in the Library or on our website  Alice Deal Library Pass .


Alice Deal 


Have you lost something during the school day? Check out the lost and found section of the website ( http://alicedeal.org/lost-found/) for photos of items found in common areas at Deal, including in the cafeteria, field, and gallery. Lost items will be kept for approximately two weeks before they are donated. To claim an item, please ask a staff member in the cafeteria to guide you to the lost-and-found.
 
We make an effort to identify labeled items and make announcements for students to pick these up in the Welcome Center. Please help us by putting your full name on all lunch boxes, back-packs, and other items you bring to school on a regular basis.

Don't see what you've lost? Most classrooms have individual lost-and-found areas. Consider checking in with your teachers. You can also stop by the lost-and- found in the cafeteria as not all items may be pictured.
Bus Information
................................................
 
The D31 morning trip times were adjusted effective Monday December 5th, 2016. 
 
One trip will begin 10 minutes earlier, departing 16th Street & Eastern Avenue at  7:26 AM, to arrive at Deal approximately  8:15 AM.  The second trip will remain unchanged, departing 16th Street & Eastern Avenue at  7:36 AM.
 
Here is a link to the bus route schedule.

If an issue occurs with your designated school transit service, please contact the number below:

Bus Operations
(202) 962-1825
 
As always, please send an email about bus problems or concerns to james.albright@dc.gov. 

DCPS Attendance Protocol and Policy: Things to Remember
 
Important: please provide a note for any absence as soon as possible (day of or soon after) to alicedealattendance@gmail.com. The note can be emailed to or brought to the attendance office next to the school entrance. Or you can complete the attach attendance link to excuse absences. It is also suggested that you email your child's teachers so that they can plan accordingly.

Students must submit a note from their parents to be excused from being absent from school. DCPS' list of reasons an absence can be excused are limited to:
  • Death in the family
  • Illness (doctor's note must be provided for absences that exceed 5 days)
  • Medical appointment
  • Emergency
  • Religious holiday
  • Court summons
  • School activities (DCPS sponsored sports events, academic activities etc.)
  • School visit (tours, interviews, etc.)
If you have any questions or concerns more, please contact our Attendance Office at alicedealattendance@gmail.com
or by calling (202) 939-2010.

Deal Athletics
Fall Sports: Girls Volleyball, Football, Cross Country and Cheerleading.
Winter Sports: Indoor Track, Basketball and Cheerleading.
Spring Sports: Softball, Baseball, Outdoor Track and Soccer
 
Softball
Practice Dates:
Monday, May 22
Tuesday, May 23rd
Wednesday, May 24

Game Dates:
Semi-final games will take place at 4:00 pm on 5/25 and 5/30
The championship game will take place at 4:00 pm on 5/31 at Nationals Academy

Please contact Coach Spann for more details.
 
Winners Lacrosse:
Monday: Girls Practice, 6:00 - 7:30 pm
Tuesday: Boys Practice, 6:00 - 7:30 pm
Wednesday: Girls & Boys Practice, 6 - 7:30 
Thursday: Winners LAX
Student & Parent Information
 
New: "B Week Schedule" this Week
Due to ongoing 7th grade PARCC testing, Deal will be on a "B Week" schedule with 6th and 7th periods in the morning and 1st and 2nd periods in the afternoon. Classes for all grade levels will be held according to the following schedule:
 
6th  -  8:45am - 9:50 am
7th  -  9:54am - 10:44 am
3rd - 10:48am -11:38 am
4th  - 11:42am -12:32 pm
5th  - 12:36pm -  1:26 pm
1st   - 1:30pm -   2:20 pm
2nd  -  2:24pm -  3:15pm
 
This schedule allows students to attend classes in the subjects they missed last week. Announcements will be made each morning to remind students of the change.  
 
New: Sailing Club 
Ahoy! The Deal Sailing Club will enjoy our last afternoon on the water this season on Tuesday, May 23rd. This trip was rescheduled from last week. Students with a signed permission slip (available from Ms. Law in E101) is invited to join. Students should meet in the auditorium at 3:00 pm and will return to Deal at approximately 7:00 pm.

New: National Portrait Gallery Reception 
There will be a special NPG Reception for all 8th graders and their family and friends with the National Portrait Gallery from 5:00 - 6:00 pm in the Deal Library on May 23rd to share our year-in-review, with an opening of our Notable Americans Portrait Gallery. We hope you will join us. Cookies and lemonade will be provided.

New: Model United Nations Kudos 
Congratulations to the conference staff and participants of ADMUN! More than thirty 6th graders attended our inaugural conference, staffed by more than fifteen 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th graders! Special thanks to the 6th Grade I&S Team for all of the support in preparing their 6th graders, Ms. Neal for speaking at our opening ceremonies, Ms. Huber and Girl Up for running a bake sale during our conference, and Ms. Brandt and Mr. Hill for all of the logistical set up and supports!  

The results of our conference are as follows:

UNEP (Sustainable Energies)
- Best Position Paper (China):  Malcolm Hornsby and Ethan Schaefer
- Honorable Mention (Germany):  Joe McDonald and Grzzia Moscoso Joyo
- Outstanding Delegation (Chile):  Leah Carrier and Leah Braden
- Best Delegation (Iceland):  Rigby Zentner and Tess Belman. 

For the UNDP Committee (Economic Empowerment of Women in Developing Countries)
- Best Position Paper (Afghanistan):  Jonathan Hobbs and Samara Auseon-Zogby
- Honorable Mention (Argentina):  Elena Vol and Amaia Noursi
- Outstanding Delegation (France):  Lily Shaw
- Best Delegation (USA):  Holly Palermo.  

Special kudos to our secretariat: Lachlan Bond and Alissa Simon and our Chairs:  (UNEP):  Clinton Jones and Eli Faber and (UNDP):  Maya McDaniel Shaw, Aicha Sanogo, and Temidayo Famakinwa;  and our staff:  Maddie Feldman, Peter Coviello, Sophie Rosenstock, Maya Landweber, Nicole Lytle, Charlotte Patrick-Dooling, and Abby Patrick Dooling. 

Parkour Clinic
One June 8th   , DCPS Health and PE Team and American Parkour will host the inaugural Parkour Jam event at Deal Middle School. All students who learned Parkour skills in their physical education course are invited to join expert American Parkour Trainers in an open-session to practice skills and refine technique. The event will run from 4:00 - 6:00 pm in the Deal gym. Contact Miriam Kenyon ( miriam.kenyon@dc.gov ), Director of Health and Physical Education, with any questions.
 
STAMP World Language Testing
8th graders in world language classes will take the STAMP exam beginning on May 30th. The STAMP exam is an internationally-recognized online test administered to assesses language proficiency in Arabic, Mandarin Chinese, French, Italian, or Spanish across four language skills: listening, reading, speaking and writing. The test will take approximately 4 class periods and the results will be used to help students decide on their correct placement for high school world language courses and to set proficiency goals for themselves as they continue to study the language. Students can prepare by working hard in their language classes every day. If you want to see sample questions visit the STAMP4s test website 
and view the STAMP practice test.
 
ADMS Student News - Episode 3 
Join 6th grade anchor Dante Chinni as he reports on two very special events at Deal - the Newseum Field Trip and 6th grade Spirit Week! Be sure to check out this latest episode at bit.ly/ADMSnews 
 
DCPS Summer Learning 2017
Summer Learning 2017 is open to all current Kindergarten through 8th grade students (rising 1st through 9th grade students) and takes place from June 26th - July 28th. Students at Deal will attend Brightwood EC for Summer Learning. Registration for Summer Learning is open online. More information, including summer course descriptions, can be found at this link and flyer. Information on all DCPS summer programs can be found at dcps.dc.gov/summer. 
 
National Junior Honor Society
The National Junior Honors Society (NJHS) is an opportunity for middle school students to be recognized for their excellence in scholarship, service to community, and character. To participate, students must be in the 7th or 8th grade and meet the following criteria to be eligible for induction into the Deal Chapter of NJHS:

-Maintain A's or B's in all classes through the 3rd Advisory
-Complete 10 hours of community service
-Participation in a school club or activity

Evidence of these requirements will be submitted with a National Junior Honor Society Application after the 3rd Advisory on April 28th. Applications will be shared with all eligible students in March. If you have any questions about NJHS Eligibility, please reach out to Mark LaLonde ( mark.lalonde@dc.gov) or Eunice Humphrey ( eunice.humphrey@dc.gov).

Peer Mediation
Peer mediation is a process of conflict resolution in which trained student mediator assists disputants to discuss and resolve their conflict. Mediation is available at Deal for student disputes on a referral basis. If students have a conflict or want to let someone know about a potential conflict situation, there are two ways to refer the issue:
1. Any student or adult may fill out the blue Mediation Referral form found in Ms. White's mailbox in the Welcome Center and in each of the grade level counselor offices.
2.  Students may also talk to a trusted adult who will refer the matter to one of the grade level counselors.
It is important to note that mediation referrals can be submitted anonymously. This means that those referring others for mediation can do so without putting their name on the form. 
 
Deal Gives Back
Deal Gives Back is our annual community service  day in which all Deal students and teachers serve our local community. Deal is looking for new activities and ideas for this year's sixth grade students. If you are a part of an organization or know of one that can use student volunteers, please contact Alana.Brown@dc.gov. Deal Gives Back will take place  Wednesday, June 7th.
 
Edline
If you need support with your Edline account or have questions about the system, please email DealEdline@gmail.com
 
Follow Us on Twitter! 
Be sure to follow @DealVikings on Twitter for a glimpse in to the daily life of Deal students and all the latest news. Don't forget to tag us when you mention your favorite Deal moments! 
       
6th Grade Corner
 


School House Rock Rehearsal Schedule
All rehearsals will take place in the auditorium and start at 3:15 pm.

Monday 5/22 until 5pm
MUSIC sing through of the show
All soloist should know their lyrics!
ALL CAST

Tuesday 5/23 until 5pm
DANCE review
This is our last day of review with Ms. Cosby.  Please review all videos BEFORE coming.
ALL CAST

Wednesday 5/24 until 5pm
DANCE review of Preamble, Bill, and Three is a Magic Number
ALL CAST (we will do the numbers in the order listed.  Once you are finished you may leave)
HOMEWORK - review blocking at home

Thursday 5/25 until 5:30 (note later time)
Muddle thru of entire show
ALL CAST

Friday 5/26 until 5
Muddle thru of entire show
ALL CAST

WEEKEND - Review all dances, songs and blocking at home

Tuesday 5/30 until 6
Run show with costumes and lights and sets,  any last minute fixes
ALL CAST 

Wednesday 5/31 until 6
Run show with sound and sets, any last minute fixes
ALL CAST 

Thursday 6/1 until 6:30 or whenever we are finished
DRESS REHEARSAL Run show with all tech and costumes
ALL CAST 

6/2 Friday 5:15 call for all cast and crew
6:30 curtain
(please eat BEFORE you arrive)  

6/3 Saturday
3:45 call for all cast  and crew
5:00 curtain

6/7 Wednesday (Deal Gives Back Day)
Details TBA

HOMEgirls Homework Club
Does your daughter, niece, or granddaughter need help catching up on past assignments? Does she have an NTI or two in Edline? Or, is she in need of a quiet, supportive place to complete the day's homework assignments? If so, the HOMEgirls Homework Club is the place for her! Girls will work on current and missing assignments, and receive organizational strategies and study tips! HOMEgirls will meet in Room C116 every Monday and Wednesday from 3:30 - 4:30 pm.

6th Grade Team Meetings
Douala - Monday
Nassau - Wednesday
Colombo - Wednesday
Marrakesh - Monday 
 
Contact Information
Do you have concerns, questions or comments?

Ms. Chambliss - Dean of Students
Naima.chambliss@dc.gov

Ms. White - Counselor
Camille.white@dc.gov

Ms. Buchanan - Social Worker
Elizabeth.buchanan@dc.gov

Ms. Neal - Assistant Principal
Diedre.Neal@dc.gov


7th Grade Corner

PARCC Testing Continues!
Seventh grade will continue PARCC testing this week on a "B schedule" (see above in this bulletin for details). We need students to be well-rested and on time each day. To ensure that students are in class on time they should arrive no later than 8:25 am. This will allow students time to get through the front entrance and to class before the bell rings.
 
If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to use the 7th grade staff contact information below.

Contact Information
Do you have concerns, questions or comments?

Mr. Lalonde - Dean of Students
Mark.Lalonde@dc.gov

Ms. Monkou - Counselor
Joy.Monkou@dc.gov

Ms. DeAngelis - Social Worker
Margaret.Deangelis@dc.gov

Mrs. Stallworth - Assistant Principal
Alieze.Stallworth@dc.gov

8th Grade Corner
     
 
New: 8th Grade Parent Meeting
The counseling and student support departments will host a special 8th grade parent meeting on Thursday, June 1st from 6:30 - 7:30 pm for parents of students with IEP, 504, or ELL support. We will have representatives from Wilson on hand to answer questions you have about the transition to high school    
 
New: Walking Passes for Early Dismissal on June 12th

Our 8th grade dance will take place the evening of June 12th and many 8th grade students traditionally ask to leave early to get ready for the big event. Students are not required to leave early this day, but if they do need to leave early, they must either be picked up by a relative at least 18 years old or have a "walking pass".  Here are the (strict) guidelines for walking passes: 

  • Send in a handwritten note asking that your child be permitted to leave at 12:30 pm on June 12th. The note must include:
    • Your student's name
    • Your name and signature
    • Date and time of departure
    • A phone number where we can confirm permission

  • Your students must turn in the note to their homeroom teacher no later than 3:30 pm on Friday, June 2nd. As the Welcome Center will make confirmation phone calls, this deadline is firm.

  • Students will receive their "walking pass" and dance ticket from their homeroom teachers at 12:30 pm on Monday, June 12th.

Important notes:
  • Students must attend school the morning of June 12th to receive their tickets for the dance.
  • Students must be 14 years old on or before June 12th to receive a "walking pass". Younger students must be signed out by an adult if they wish to leave early. As we will need to confirm a large number of passes, teachers will not accept walking pass requests after the June 2nd deadline.
Please reach out to the team with any questions or concerns.
 
New: Promotion Payments Due 
Payments for 8th grade promotion activities (trip to Kings Dominion and the 8th grade dance) will be accepted by team teachers every Thursday. Please submit your payments as soon as possible because your 8th grader does not want to miss these exciting events! For more information, please read the
8th grade promotion letter.


New: 8th Grade Dance Help
Attention 8th grade parents: We need your help to make our 8th grade dance a safe, fun, successful evening! Parent volunteers are needed at the following times on June 12th:
  • Set-up: 12:45 - 6:00 pm
  • Chaperone: 7:00 - 10:00 pm
  • Clean-up: 9:00pm until the end of the dance
Please email michael.haller@dc.gov if you are available to help for any part of the fun! 
   
8th Grade Promotion Dates  
Mark your calendars now! The end of the year is a busy time for our 8th graders and we have confirmed dates for all the fun:
  • Kings Dominion Trip - June 9th
  • Promotion Practice - June 12th
  • 8th Grade Dance - June 12th
  • Promotion - June 13th
This year's promotion will take place at George Washington University's Lisner Auditorium on Tuesday, June 13th at 10:00 am. Due to space constraints, each student will be given two guest tickets. We look forward to sharing this special time with our oldest, wisest Vikings! 

National Junior Honors Society
8th graders who were inducted last year, do NOT need to complete the application this year. They are still members of NJHS.  

8th graders who were not inducted last year and would like to be inducted this year, please email Mrs. Humphrey and she will send you the application. In order to be eligible you must meet the following requirements:  

-10 hours or more 
- Club or sport at Deal MS 
- On Honor Roll Advisories 1, 2 & 3 
- No behavioral referrals  

8th Grade Team Texts
Sign up for team-specific texts for community project, field trips, and other information using Remind 101. Signing up is optional, but this is a good way for students and families to stay connected via text when your email inbox is overflowing!  
Community Project Updates
Many of our 8th grade students are wrapping up the final stages of their community projects. Several are running drives that will benefit our local community. If you are able to contribute to any of the following, please send your child with the following items to Ms. Brown in C227. I will deliver your donations to the students who are running the collections.
  • New make-up for women in DC shelters
  • Gently used musical instruments
  • Used shoes of all sizes and styles
  • Toiletries and books for children in foster care
  • Gently used sports equipment
  • Toys for animals
What's next?
Students should have their community projects completed or very near completion at this time. In May, students will meet with their supervisors one last time and begin preparing their presentations to be shared on June 7th. 

Wilson Registration
Students have signed up for next year's classes. If your child has not done so, please have him/her come see Ms.Travers or Mrs.Humphrey. Students were given a copy of the course selection form, with the classes they selected. If you did not get the copy or would like to see the courses that your child selected please email Mrs. Humphrey and a copy will be sent to you.

Requesting a Transcript 
Many high school applications will ask for a transcript or school records. Requests should be sent to Ms. Humphrey ( Eunice.Humphrey@dc.gov) in writing at least two weeks prior to the submission deadline. If your student applies to

Contact Information
Do you have compliments, questions or comments? Let the 8th grade team know:

Ms. Outten - Dean of Students
Kate.Outten@dc.gov
 
Mr. Boccardi - Social Worker 
Peter.Boccardi@dc.gov

Ms. Humphrey - Counselor
Eunice.Humphrey@dc.gov

Ms. Travers - Counselor
Johnet.Travers@dc.gov

Mr. Rottman - Assistant Principal
Patrick.Rottman@dc.gov
This Week at Deal

Monday:
Outdoor Basketball Club
The After School Outdoor Basketball Club will meet on Monday, May 22nd at 3:30 pm behind the school on the court next to the Cottage. In the event of poor weather, we will meet with Mr. Namian in Room C217.

Tuesday: Sailing Club 
Students participating in our final sail of the year should have signed permission slips (from Ms. Law in E101) and should meet in the auditorium at 3:00 pm. Dress for the weather and hope for sunny skies! 
 
Wednesday: Model UN
Model UN will meet two more times this year during our regular meeting times: 
  • Wednesday, 5/24:  We will debrief ADMUN, share pictures and stories.
  • Wednesday, 5/31: We will celebrate the school year and all that members have accomplished and participated in!
We will meet both days in E205 at 3:30 pm.

Club/ Activity
Teacher
Description
Day
Time
Loc.
Girl Up Club
Huber/ Massaquoi
Mentoring young girls, helping them get through their day-to-day
M
3:30 - 4:30
E307
Concert Choir
McKeithen
Classical Music Choir
M
7:45 - 8:30
Audit.
Pen pals
Dziato/ Parish
Get to know another middle school half way across the world in Singapore. You will send your pen pal letter, emails and even video messages.
M
3:30 - 4:30
RG01
ELA Peer Tutoring
Culp
ELA Peer Tutoring
M
3:30 - 4:30
E105
After School Outdoor Basketball Club
Namian
All are welcome to participate in Mr. Namian's Outdoor After School Basketball Club. Girls, boys, players grades 6-8, novices/experts. If you like the greatest game ever invented, then this is the club for you! After an hour of supervised pickup, each session culminates with Mr. Namian's famous wild half court shootout for Gatorades.
M
3:30 - 4:30
Cottage
Science Fair Help
Rhoads
7th and 8th Grade Science Fair Help
M
3:30 - 4:30
RG02
Noted
McKeithen
Jazz/Popular Music Vocal Group
M
3:30 - 5:00
CG21
Peer Mediation
White
Students in all grades learning how to help their peers resolve conflict in a peaceful way. Club members will mediate disputes that have been referred by staff and students throughout the school year.
M
3:30 - 4:30
C117
Shoelogy101
Kim, Giron
Come design shoes! Learn about how you can customize your own pair.
M
3:30 - 4:30
C224
Student Council
Wickersham/Haller
Governing student body at ADMS
M
3:30 - 4:30
Reno Room
Trading Card Games
Kirschenbaum
Students play trading card games of their choosing (Pokemon, Magic, etc.)
M
3:30 - 4:30
N103
Tennis
Smith
Tennis club is a casual weekly gathering for those interested in the sport. A typical day involves 15-20 minutes of drills to improve skill, followed by 20-30 minutes of friendly competition. Depending on the amount of interest, the club may split into 2 groups based on skill level. The club typically breaks during the winter. Tennis shoes are required, a racket is recommended, and I will provide tennis balls.
M
3:30 - 4:30
W201
Culture Club
Donaldson
The Culture Club will explore and celebrate different countries/cultures from across the world each week with pictures, videos, food, etc.
M
3:30 - 4:30
N116
Speech
Martis
Students will practice their public speaking skills and work towards practicing for competitions.
M
3:30 - 4:30
W106
Girl Up
Scott
Since 2010, Girl Up has partnered with the United Nations to support programs that give girls an equal chance for education, health, social and economic opportunities, and a life free from violence.
M
3:30 - 4:30
E 307
Apples To Apples Kids
Boccardi
Come join Mr. Boccardi and play Apples. Apples to Apples is a fun games that requires you to make whacky comparison based on your opponents personality and character.
M
3:30 - 4:30
C302
Brainteaser Club
Brown
Come stretch your brain with logic puzzles, optical illusions, and visual workouts. This club will be a break from homework, but will still make you think!
M
3:30 - 4:20
C217
Yoga club
Quinn
Little yogis will learn the basics of yoga and functional movement.
M
3:30 - 4:15
R116
Philosophy
Otterstatter
In this club, students will discuss the "real questions"... what is the meaning of life, etc.
M
3:30 - 4:30
E304
Banana Splits
Alphonse
A safe place for students with divorced parents to come and express feelings and engage in fun activities
M
3:30 - 4:30
C103
The Stock Market Game
Jang
The Stock Market Game curriculum, lessons, and activities combine content knowledge, critical thinking, research, and analytical skills in a real-world simulation.
M
3:30 - 4:30
TBD
Cheerleading
Baxter/ Clark
Students learn stunt, dance, tumbling and motion techniques to be performed at various competitions
M
3:30 - 5:30
Gym
Chess Club
Car'Mon
Students will learn to play chess.
M
3:30 - 4:30
RG10
Peer Mediation
White
Submitted previously
M
3:30 - 4:30
C310
International Cinema
Brown
Students meet for snacks and an international film viewing
M
3:30 - 4:30
N112
Scrabble Club
Fatis 
Compete against one another in the game of Scrabble. For serious player or those looking to have fun.
M
3:30-
4:30
Cafe
Student Librarians
Redekopp
If you love organizing and helping your classmates, consider becoming a student librarian! Choose a day to come after school to help with shelving, organizing, and assisting your fellow students.
M
3:30 - 4:30
Media Center
Today, Tomorrow and Monday!
Stroud
A group of seventh graders have requested an opportunity to explore current events and how they impact upon a middle schooler's today and tomorrow!  Of course, in line with the club's name, will meet on Monday at 3:30 in room W206
M
3:30-4:30
W206
Student Librarians
Redekopp
Working in the media center.
T
3:30 - 4:30
Media Center
M indful Art
White
Students who are interested in a relaxing environment where they can craft their way to calm should check out this after school activity which focuses on the practice of mindfulness through art and creativity. 
T
3:30-
4:15
C117
Debate
Stroud
Students will practice their public speaking skills and work towards practicing for competitions.
T 3:30-4:30
W206
Ultimate Frisbee
Kouri/ Martini
The Ultimate Frisbee club is open to all levels of experience. Players will practice offensive and defensive strategies, learn different throwing techniques, and embody the spirit of the game through sportsmanship.
T
3:30 - 4:30
W104
Sailing Club
Rottman /Law/ Philip
This seasonal club is a great chance for students to go sailing in DC! Sign ups are in the bulletin, students can come as much or as little as they like, and no experience is necessary.
T
3:00 - 7:00
TBD
Concert Band
van der Horst
Concert Band is a performing ensemble open to all students who play a wind or percussion instrument. There will be performance opportunities outside school hours.
T
7:45 - 8:00
CG20
Ell Homework Club Hasan/Thomas
Homework Assistance, guidance
T
3:30-4:30
CG06
Jazz Band
van der Horst
A traditional jazz ensemble open to students with at least one year experience on their instrument. An audition is required.
T
3:30 - 4:30
CG20
Do It Yourself (D.I.Y) Club
Quiambao
Get together to create projects from a variety of old and new items to create something fun and useful.
T
3:30 - 4:30
W105
Power Walking Club
DeAngelis
Power Walking Club is perfect for Vikings who want to exercise and stay healthy throughout the school year!
T
3:30 - 4:00
C203
Pause devoirs
Mbayu
French homework help.
T
3:30 - 4:00
C308
Scrabble Club
Gentile
Compete against one another in the game of Scrabble. For serious player or those looking to have fun.
T
3:30 - 4:30
E103
GeoPlunge! (6th grade)
Martini
All 6th graders are invited to play GeoPlunge - a fun card game played using cards with facts and trivia about the 50 states!
T
6th Gr Lunch
W104
Inspiration Choir
Shipmon
After-School choir that will sing uplifting and inspiring music.
T
3:30 - 4:30
CG04
Creative Writing
Silberman
Students will write short screenplays, short stories, and poetry with special focus on enhanced description, structure, and plot development.
T
3:30 - 4:30
C104
Concert Choir
McKeithen
Classical Music Choir
W
7:45 - 8:30
Auditorium
Student Librarians
Redekopp
Working in media center.
W
3:30 - 4:30
Media Center
Concert Band
Van der Horst
Concert Band is a performing ensemble open to all students who play a wind or percussion instrument. There will be performance opportunities outside school hours.
W
7:45 - 8:00
CG20
Yearbook
Hyatt
Students will work throughout the year to produce the 2016-2017 ADMS Yearbook! Students will take photos, organize layouts and write descriptions for the yearbook!
W
3:30 - 4:30
E201
Reading Support Club
Fraser
Gain confidence in reading and join our reading support club!
W
3:30 - 4:30
R104
Model UN
Trenkle
Students will discuss global current events, work on Model UN Skills, and participate in MUN Conferences. This club is for 7th and 8th grade students, or 6th grade students with experience.
W
3:30 - 4:30
E205
Girls Soccer (Spring '17)
Ngwa
DCIAA Spring soccer league
W
3:30 - 5:00
Field
Girl Talk
Fullington/ Humphrey
Girl Talk will be designed to provide educational and recreational experiences through positive social interactions, peer mentoring, and teamwork and life skills development.
W
3:30 - 4:30
E105
Sports Rap
Burt
In Sports Rap, students will engage in socratic seminar type discussions, debating the major issues in the sports world. Students will also view and discuss current highlights from major sporting events. A fun activity for the serious sports fan!
W
3:30 - 4:30
W103
Coloring Club
Gentile
Do you love to color? Adult coloring is growing in popularity. According to CNN, coloring "has therapeutic potential to reduce anxiety, create focus or bring [about] more mindfulness," Whether you want to reduce stress or just enjoy coloring, come join coloring club!
W
3:30 - 4:30
E103
Math HW Club
Lewis - Samuels
The Math HW Club is designed to assist 6th grade math students to complete their math homework in a setting with a math specialist. Students will work at their pace to develop skills and confidence to improve their math performance.
W
3:30 - 4:30
C213
Robotics Club
Slocumb-Bradford
Students will have an opportunity to design, build, and program devices and robots to accomplish simple and complex tasks.
W
3:30 - 4:30
E206
Girl Talk
Monkou
A club where girls can share middle school adventures. Some topics will include fashion, academics, future goals and more.
W
3:30 - 4:30
C310
Book Club
Belser
Begins second semester. Welcome readers!! Book club will meet once a week to discuss a book we are all reading independently.
W
3:30 - 4:15
W207
Science Olympiad
Schuettpelz
Students involved in this club need to commit to practicing. This is a science team competition
W
3:30 - 4:15
W200
Student Librarians
Redekopp
Working in media center.
Th
3:30 - 4:30
Media Center
Cheerleading
Baxter/Clark
Students learn stunt, dance, tumbling and motion techniques to be performed at various competitions
Th
3:30 - 5:30
Gym
8th Gr. Anime Club in C212
Schick
Students will enjoy in healthy debates about anime while reviewing age-appropriate cinema and eating snacks. Open to 8th graders.
Th
3:30 - 5:00
C212
Jazz Band
van der Horst
A traditional jazz ensemble open to students with at least one year experience on their instrument. An audition is required.
Th
3:30 - 4:30
CG20
Concert Choir
McKeithen
Classical Music Choir
F
7:45 - 8:30
Auditorium
Concert Band
van der Horst
Concern band practice.
F
7:45 - 8:00
CG20
Guitar Club
Neal
Come and play guitar with your friends; learn from each other!
F
3:30 - 4:30
C114
7th Gr. Comic Book Club in C212
Schick
Students will participate in healthy debates about comic books and superheroes while eating pizza and watching animated superhero shows and film.
F
3:30 - 5:00
C212
East Asia Studies
Diaz
If you love Asian culture and would like to learn more this is the club for you. We watch Korean or Japanese films and we discuss their culture.
F
3:30 - 4:30
R113
Videogames
Perrin
Students can gather to discuss their favorite video games, which Pokémon they just caught on Pokémon Go, and more.
F
3:30 - 4:30
W205
Football, Girls Basketball, Baseball, Lacrosse
Downing
Athletics
TBD
3:30 - 5:30
Gym/Field
Dr. Steve Science Journal Club
Newman
Read and discuss current events in the field of science. Dr. Steve, who spent his career developing vaccines at NIH, leads discussions.
TBD
3:15 - 4:15
R102
Passport to History
Daniels
8th grade students can accompany Ms. Daniels to sites around the city for their Passport to History project.
TBD
3:30 - 5:00
W305
Photography
Reddy
In this club, students will understand the key principles of digital photography and the post production techniques. We will also be taking a lot of photographs.
TBD
3:30 - 4:30
E301
Yearbook
Hensley
Yearbook
TBD
3:30 - 4:30
E204/6
 

Community Information
(Items in this section are not sponsored by Deal)

Do you have a community event or organization you would like to see included in the weekly bulletin? Please contact dealbulletin@gmail.comwith submission requests.


Wilson Field Hockey 
Rising 9th grade girls y
ou are invited to a pre-summer meeting about Wilson Field Hockey, on  Wednesday, May 31 , from  5:30-6:30 pm  in the Wilson atrium.  You will meet coaches and players, hear about the schedule, uniform and equipment requirements, summer camps, required conditioning, and tryouts. Each year we have taken a few beginning players on the team, but their experience is so much better when they have prepared as much as possible over the summer. 
 
Please contact Head Coach Sarah Whitener at mdwhitener@aol.com if you have any interest in the team or have questions. Hope to see you there!


Celtic Soccer Academy 2017
Celtic Soccer Academy 2017 is a soccer camp featuring the youth academy coaches from the world famous Celtic Football Club (Glasgow, Scotland).  The soccer camp is open to boys and girls 7-18 years of age of all ability.  The camp will be conducted at Woodrow Wilson High School.   Proceeds from the camp will go towards the Wilson soccer program.  

The first 25 registered campers will receive an official Celtic FC Camp ball and New Balance sack pack.  A $35.00 value.

Parents can register at the  www.dcpda.com website or call  202-280-2080
 
Howard University Youth Basketball Camp
The Kevin Nickelberry Youth Basketball Camp Jul 31 -Aug 4 at Howard University. Space is Limited. Please see the attached brochure for more details.  
 
Opportunity To Participate in an ADHD Study 
If you have a child who has been diagnosed with ADHD, please consider joining a study that is investigating a dietary intervention that may alleviate symptoms without medication.
 
This study requires 2 months of participation - the first month will be completed mostly at home and the second month will involve visits to our lab. Gift cards will be given to both parents and children! 
 
If interested, please contact us: 
The Nutritional Neuroscience Lab 

Expert Middle and High School Tutors Available
Course content tutoring, academic skill development, standardized exam and admission coaching, and educational planning services

Serving NWDC, Bethesda, and Silver Spring
Summer 2017 slots available

Our services cover one-on-one tutoring and summer skills. Areas include reading and writing across the curriculum, pre-algebra through AP calculus, and ISEE, SSAT, ACT, SAT, and GRE preps. Also, we assist with college and university selection, and with drafting and polishing the Common Application and supplementary essays for admission.
We are two established tutors who hold advanced degrees in linguistics, social sciences, math education, and computer systems. Together, we count decades of experience with students in grades 5-12 + community college and college, Common Core, AP, and IB curricula, and high school and college admission.
Our motivated students attend high performing public schools, as well as Georgetown Day School, National Cathedral School, Sidwell Friends School, St. John's College High School, Washington International School, and Washington Waldorf School.
Recent scores rose 30-40/100 points on the ISEE, SSAT, and similar middle and high school assessments. Recent college admissions include Cal, as well as Cornell, Johns Hopkins, McGill, and Stanford Universities; 2017 applications included liberal arts and test optional colleges with attention to merit aid.
Please contact Maggie Ronkin ( maggie.ronkin@gmail.com/202-316-2263)  for more information and scheduling availability.

DC Stoddert Soccer Travel Program Try-Outs: 
Is your child a talented soccer player who wants to excel to the next level? DC Stoddert Soccer's Travel Program targets youth players with above average skills and a strong drive to develop their technical and tactical abilities as well as foster a deeper love for the soccer. Travel players receive guided practice and coaching instruction from professional, nationally-licensed coaches, some of whom are also college soccer coaches. Partnerships with hometown professional teams-DC United and the Washington Spirit-further increase opportunities for training and exposure to soccer at the highest levels. DC Stoddert has full and partial fee waivers available for players with financial need.
 
Summer Opportunity for Community Service and Leadership Growth
Spark the Wave is an organization that encourages young people to become leaders within their communities. Wave Week is a Service Leadership Institute for youth which takes place in the summer. Wave Week offers an intensive program of leadership development, community service, team building activities and fun. During this week, participants will plan their own community service projects and gain the leadership skills necessary to implement these projects. Both residential and commuter options are available at Georgetown University and at Villanova University. This summer program is open to students in grades 6-11. For more information or to register please visit www.sparkthewave.org/register. 
 
Opportunities for Tweens and Teens at the Camp @ Cleveland Park
The Camp @ Cleveland Park Club offers weekly sessions from June 19 to August 11 for campers ages 4.5-10, counselors-in-training ages 11-12, and counselors ages 13+. Fun and educational projects vary with weekly themes and a portion of each day includes free swim in the Club's outdoor pool. Counselors-in-training (CIT's) experience the fun of summer camp while also taking on new responsibilities. CIT's are mentored by teenage counselors and adult staff, learning team cooperation, responsibility and motivation. For young teens, counselor positions are available week-to-week and entail more training and responsibility.
 
Summer Youth Sailing with DC Sail
DC Sail offers youth racing programs in the spring and fall for high school and middle school students from the DC area. Students do not need prior sailing experience to participate as learning is part of the fun! Scholarships are available for families with a demonstrated need.
Click here for more information and to sign up for the spring season.
 
Kids Elite Sports Summer Camp 
It's that time again to be thinking about camp even though the weather is freezing!  Kids Elite Sports Summer Camp is a multi-style camp that takes place at Wilson High School.  The camp was created by Wilson Track Coach, Desmond Dunham, who is a warm, friendly, thoughtful educator who gets kids and knows how to engage and motivate them. A total of 8, 1 week sessions are offered starting June 19th and ending August 11th.  More information can be found at  www.kidselitesports.org