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Dear Northley Families,
As we move deeper into November, there’s a lot happening across our building, and I want to take a moment to keep you updated. This stretch of the school year is busy, but it’s also one of the most meaningful times because we get to celebrate student growth, connect with families, and recognize the staff who make this place feel like home for our kids. Below you’ll find important updates, upcoming events, and a few things we are proud to highlight here at Northley.
American Education Week
Next week is American Education Week, a nationwide week that recognizes the work of teachers, support staff, and everyone who helps our students grow. It’s a reminder of how important it is for schools and families to work together for kids.
Throughout the week, we’ll highlight the people who make a difference every day at Northley. Please take a moment to complete the form below. I’ll use your responses to create a staff word cloud and share shoutouts on the morning announcements.
Click here --American Education Week
If you’d like to take part at home, a simple thank-you note or quick email to a teacher or staff member goes a long way. Our team works hard for your children, and hearing from families means a lot. Thank you for your continued support and for being an active part of our school community.
Schools to Watch
We welcomed the Schools to Watch committee on Tuesday, November 11. Representatives visited classrooms and spoke with teachers, parents, and students. We’ll hear the final decision in a few weeks. No matter the outcome, we are proud of the work happening every day at Northley.
Report Cards
Report cards are live. They include academic performance and attendance data. Regular attendance plays a major role in student success, so we want families to have a clear look at both.
Honor Roll and Distinguished Honor Roll
Certificates will be distributed next week. Congratulations to all students who earned Honor Roll and Distinguished Honor Roll. Their hard work shows.
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Conferences will be held on November 24 and 25, with evening conferences on November 25. This is one of the most important times of the year for families, students, and teachers to come together to discuss learning and growth.
Northey’s student-led conference model allows students to share their academic progress, goals, and reflections. Teachers will also schedule traditional conferences where needed. Whether student-led or teacher-led, these conversations strengthen our partnership to support every child’s success.
Weber's warriors Online Shirt Sale
One of the most special things about Aston is the way we always come together as a community. When someone we love is in need, we show up every single time — and this moment is no different.
Ms. Weber, a much loved 5th grade teacher at Aston Elementary for 26 years, is about to begin a battle against cancer, and she needs all of our love, strength, and support.
The Aston Elementary PTL is selling #WebersWarriors T-shirts and sweatshirts in her honor, with all profits donated directly to Ms. Weber to ensure she has everything she needs throughout this fight.
Place your orders using this link. The shop will be open until December 1st.
https://preview.chipply.com/store.aspx?eid=452010
We stand behind Ms. Weber with everything we have.
And if cancer thinks it knows who it’s messing with…
it clearly hasn’t met the Aston community — and it definitely hasn’t met Susan Weber.
Attendance Matters
Students learn more when they attend school regularly. Research shows that missing just two days a month adds up quickly and can have a major impact on learning, confidence, and long-term achievement. In middle school, strong attendance helps students stay on track with classes, build routine, and keep up socially. We appreciate your support in keeping students in school every day unless they are sick. A new section to the news letter is below with importance details regarding attendance
Nurse Health Screenings
Our school will begin health screenings next week with routine height, weight, and vision screenings.
Save the Date: Sun Valley Information Night
8th grade parents are invited to Sun Valley High School on Thursday, November 20, from 6:30–7:30 PM. Learn about academic programs, athletic opportunities, activities, and the arts. Hear from current students about the Sun Valley experience and take a guided tour of the school and its facilities.
Northley Fall Pep Rally & Spirit Challenge!
We’re excited to announce our upcoming Fall Pep Rally on Friday, November 21! During the event, we’ll recognize our fall sports teams, Students of the Month, perfect attendance, and honor roll recipients. It’s a great opportunity to celebrate our students’ hard work and Viking pride.
Leading up to the pep rally, we’re kicking off a two-week Viking Vision Challenge!
Students can earn tickets for demonstrating that they are Ready, Respectful, and Responsible. Staff will hand out tickets throughout the next two weeks, and students can drop them into their grade-level bins in the cafeteria during lunch for a chance to participate in pep rally games and win prizes.
Pep Rally Spirit Colors:
- 8th Grade – Blue
- 7th Grade – White
- 6th Grade – Gold
Students are encouraged to wear their grade’s color on pep rally day!
During lunch that day, each grade will also select 25 students to take part in fun events like Musical Chairs, a Turkey Relay, Box Stacking, and a Pie Eating Contest. We’re looking forward to a fun day celebrating school spirit and our amazing Vikings!
NMS Book Fair
Get ready NMS students! The Scholastic Book Fair is coming to our school! Find bestselling series and characters that you love from more than 100 publishers. Plus every purchase benefits our school. We hope you can join us the for Best. Week. Ever!
To get ready, check out these links:
Northley Middle School Fall Book Fair Volunteers Needed!
Our Fall Book Fair is coming up, and we need your help to make it a success! We’re looking for parent volunteers to assist with setup, sales, and cleanup throughout the week of 11/17/25-11/21/25.
If you’re available to lend a hand, please sign up using the link below. ALL VOLUNTEERS MUST HAVE CLEARANCES ON FILE.
Your time and support help make events like this possible for our students — thank you for being part of our Northley community! Sign Up Here
Thanksgiving Food Drive
Our annual Thanksgiving Food Drive is officially underway! Each homeroom is collecting Thanksgiving-themed food items, and the homeroom that donates the most items will win a homeroom breakfast.
We’re looking for items like canned vegetables, fruits, gravy, cranberries, yams, and boxed mashed potatoes and stuffing.
The food drive runs through Tuesday, November 19. Thank you for helping us support families in need this holiday season!
Winter Formal
Northley PTL is excited to host the 8th Grade Winter Formal. The cafeteria will be transformed into a winter wonderland, and complimentary treats will be available.
- Students may be dropped off at 6:45 p.m. at the main entrance.
- Dress Code: Dresses/skirts or a dress shirt and tie. No jeans or shorts.
- Cost: $10 per student, cash only, sent in with a signed permission slip in an envelope labeled “Northley PTL – 8th Grade Formal.”
- Permission Slips: Accepted from 11/17 through 12/3 during homeroom.
- Late orders cannot be accepted.
- A full permission slip was sent home with all 8th grade todays on November 14th 2025.
- Questions can be directed to Teresa Mai at Antmai08@gmail.com.
Student of the Month Breakfast
This month, students were recognized for demonstrating the Leader in Me habit “Begin with the End in Mind.” They set goals, plan ahead, and follow through—showing the kind of focus and responsibility that leads to success. We celebrated our Students of the Month with a special breakfast for them and their families. We’re proud of their effort, character, and leadership.
October Honorees
Charlotte, Brady, Josephine, Luke, Joseph, Olivia, Gavin, Addison, and Alina.
Their commitment to doing their best each day reflects the heart of our school’s mission: Every Mind Focused. Every Action Accountable.
After-School Academic Support
Northey’s After-School Academic Support Program will begin in the coming weeks. 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
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. Free or Reduced-Price School Meals
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]
Thank you for taking the time to stay connected with us. Your involvement plays a major role in your child’s success and in the strength of our school community. We appreciate your support, your partnership, and the trust you place in us each day. If you ever have questions or need anything, please reach out. We’re here for you and your child.
Justin Shivone
Principal, Northley Middle School
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