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Northley families,
February has been full. A lot of good things are happening in our building right now. We’re recognizing students, preparing for spring, celebrating accomplishments, and keeping our focus where it belongs. I continue to be impressed by the way our students show up each day. There’s effort, there’s pride, and there’s growth. That matters.
Potential Snow / Flexible Instructional Day Reminder
There is potential snow Sunday into Monday. Please keep an eye out for communication from the district.
If a Flexible Instructional Day is needed, it will be a Day 1. Students should check Schoology for links and login information. The Day 1 schedule is included below. More details will be shared if necessary.
NMS Representatives at the County Wide Spelling Bee
Good luck to our spelling bee representatives, Yousef K. and Brielle H., as they compete at the county level. We’re proud of you and know you’ll represent Northley with confidence.
Student of the Month
January’s focus was Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood. This habit emphasizes listening to others, waiting your turn, and communicating respectfully. The following students were recognized for consistently demonstrating these skills in their classrooms and throughout the building:
Charlotte R., Josiah D., Zoey L., Karis L., Lucas O., Shane D. Camryn I., Brielle H. Dylan P.
These students model thoughtful communication and respect for others, helping to create a positive learning environment for everyone. We recognized them this week with a breakfast for them and their families!
PAMLE Conference and Schools to Watch Recognition
Mr. Shivone, Mrs. Armbruster, and Mrs. Dwyer are attending the PAMLE Schools to Watch Conference. They will be learning from other middle schools across the state and proudly accepting Northley’s Schools to Watch award. We’re excited to bring new ideas back while celebrating this recognition.
Celebrating Black History Month
Our students are honoring Black History Month in meaningful ways. Throughout the month, they’ve been creating mosaic projects that highlight influential leaders and changemakers. More importantly, they’re having thoughtful conversations about the impact these individuals have had on our nation’s history. It’s been great to see students engaging, reflecting, and learning from one another.
Spring Sports Ahead
Spring sports are right around the corner. Students should be on the lookout for upcoming information sessions hosted by coaches. If you have questions, please reach out to our Athletic Director, Mrs. Genovese, for details.
Northley Café
Mrs. Kikut and Mrs. Roches’ classes continue to run the Northley Café, providing breakfast for staff while building real-world skills. Students are learning retail operations, customer service, money management, baking, and interpersonal communication. It’s hands-on learning at its best and a great service to our staff.
Olympics at Northley!
Mrs. Kikut and Mrs. Roches’ classes recently hosted their own Olympic Games. Students competed hard, but more importantly, they competed the right way. We saw teamwork, encouragement, resilience, and real sportsmanship. They cheered each other on, handled wins and losses with maturity, and represented Northley well. It was a great example of what positive competition looks like.
Math in Action!
Students are bringing math to life using algebra tiles in class. These hands-on tools help make abstract concepts visible and easier to understand. It’s great to see students actively engaging with the content and building strong problem-solving skills.
Readers Are Leaders. Schoolwide Reading Reset
We are seeing the effects of increased screen time on student focus, stamina, and reading fluency. When reading time decreases, it impacts learning across all subject areas, not just English Language Arts.
Beginning February 9, we are resetting expectations around reading across the building.
- Students will read during homeroom as a daily routine.
- Reading will be the expectation when students finish classwork early.
- Staff may use quick, informal “Book Up in the Air” checks to reinforce habits.
- Short Stop, Drop, and Read moments will be built into the week.
- Light incentives will support engagement, including
- Bingo Bookmarks and small rewards for completed books.
Spring Book Fair. February 27 through March 6
Our Spring Book Fair will run from February 27 through March 6. This is a great opportunity for students to explore new books, build personal libraries, and strengthen their connection to reading. Additional details will be shared as the dates approach.
Book Fair Volunteers Needed
We’re looking for parent volunteers to help during our Spring Book Fair. If you’re able to give some time, we’d truly appreciate the support. Volunteers help students browse, manage check-out, and keep things running smoothly.'=
You can sign up using our Sign Up Genius link below.
Sign Up Genius for Book Fair Volunteers
Please remember that all volunteers must have current clearances on file with the district in order to participate.
Thank you for helping make this a great experience for our students.
Read Across America Spirit Week. March 2–6
We are excited to celebrate Read Across America Spirit Week from March 2 through March 6. This week combines school spirit with a focus on reading and imagination, inspired by Dr. Seuss. Each day highlights a different reading-themed message, along with a fun dress theme.
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Monday, March 2 – Team Up for Reading - Wear any sports team attire
- Tuesday, March 3 – Reading Takes Us to Great Places - Wear a shirt from somewhere you’ve been
- Wednesday, March 4 – Hats Off to Reading - Wear a hat
- Thursday, March 5 – Cozy Up With a Good Book - Wear pajamas or comfy clothes
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Friday, March 6 – Reading Makes for a Bright Future - Wear bright colors
We look forward to a fun week that celebrates reading, creativity, and school spirit across Northley.
PTL Cash Bingo Fundraiser
Northley PTL is hosting its Cash Bingo Fundraiser on Friday, March 13, 2026 at the Brookhaven Community Center. Doors open at 6:00 PM and games begin at 7:00 PM. This is a 21 and over event, so grab your friends and make it a night out.
We’ll play 10 rounds of bingo, plus there will be raffle baskets and a 50/50.
Tickets are $35 in advance or $40 at the door if seats are still available. Tables seat 8 people, and you can reserve a full table for $280. A limited number of VIP tables are also available for $500. VIP tables seat 10, include two bottled beverage choices for the table, two bingo cards per person, and early entry at 5:45 PM.
This event sells out every year, and all proceeds benefit the Northley Class of 2026. More details, including payment information and registration, can be found on the flyer.
8th Grade Families – Ireland and the UK Educational Tour
This opportunity is for current 8th grade students only who will be attending Sun Valley High School.
We are excited to share that an Ireland and UK educational tour is planned for Summer 2028, and your student is invited to join. This experience will bring history and culture to life.
Highlights include:
- Exploring Dublin’s historic Georgian squares, Temple Bar district, and St. Patrick’s
- Cathedral
- Visiting EPIC, the interactive Museum of Irish Emigration
- Touring Edinburgh Castle and Scotland’s capital city
- Experiencing London’s iconic landmarks
Travel opens doors. Students build independence, broaden their perspective, and grow in confidence.
To learn more about the itinerary, activities, academic connections, and trip cost, join us for a virtual information meeting on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at 6:00 PM via Zoom.
Please register here to reserve your spot: https://bit.ly/4jaffDN
Space is limited, so we encourage families to attend and hear the details.
After-School Activities
We’ve updated our list of current clubs and activities happening after school. Northley offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved and explore new interests. For this dates of meeting please click here: Activity Schedule
After-School Academic Support
This program offers students additional help with assignments, challenging concepts, and key skills in a supportive environment. Teachers and counselors will identify students who would benefit and contact families directly. If you have any concerns, please check with your grade level counselor
Student Drop-Off Reminder
Forgotten items can be dropped off on the table in the vestibule. Please make sure everything is clearly labeled with your child’s name so we can get items to them quickly without interrupting classes.
Nutrition at NMS
Every student at Northley has access to free breakfast each school day, except on half days. A good breakfast helps students stay focused and ready to learn. If you believe your family may
qualify for free or reduced lunch and haven’t yet applied, please visit the Food Services page on our district website. Directions for how to apply can be found there. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to your child’s grade-level counselor for support.
Positive Office Referrals
Our students continue to impress us with their respect, responsibility, and kindness. Through Positive Office Referrals, we recognize students for choices that reflect true Northley pride. Every positive action helps build the culture we’re proud of.
Walking to School Reminder
Safety always comes first. Please remind your child to use crosswalks and sidewalks when walking to and from school. Students from Brookhaven and Parkside should not walk or bike due to limited sidewalks. Thank you for helping us keep every student safe.
Lost& Found
Our cafeteria lost and found is filling up quickly with jackets, water bottles, and sweatshirts. Please remind your child to check it soon before items are donated.
Safe2Say Something
The Safe2Say Something program remains an essential tool for maintaining school safety. It allows students to confidentially report concerns or seek help for others. Please remind your child that using Safe2Say shows leadership and care for their peers. [Safe2Say Link]
We have a busy stretch ahead, and that’s a good thing. Thank you for staying connected and supporting your child and our school. When families and school stay on the same page, it makes a real difference. We’ll keep pushing forward and finishing the month strong.
Justin Shivone
Principal, Northley Middle School
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