Gregg Hall
Character Education
This November, our students are embracing the theme of Gratitude. We’ll be focusing on appreciating what we have and recognizing the goodness in our lives. Practicing gratitude not only nurtures a positive outlook but also supports physical and emotional well-being—leading to benefits such as better sleep, reduced stress, and stronger relationships.
Independent Living Skills
Our students have been busy building practical life skills:
7th Grade Girls
Recently, they walked to the public library to apply for their own library cards! This activity helped them practice pedestrian safety skills—such as staying alert around traffic, crossing at designated intersections, and using crossing signals. They also learned about the many services the library offers and the responsibility that comes with borrowing materials.
8th Grade Girls
Laundry Day was a success! Students practiced washing and drying their clothes, learning how to select the right machine settings, choosing appropriate water temperatures, and measuring detergent correctly.
6th Grade Girls
Time management was the focus for this group. Using daily schedules broken into 15-minute increments, they learned how to prioritize tasks and manage responsibilities effectively.
Dorm Life
Although Halloween has come to an end, excitement is building for the holiday season! Our girls are planning a “Grade vs. Grade” decorating contest in their dorm areas. They’ll use existing decorations and create handmade pieces to bring festive cheer.
In addition, the kitchen has been buzzing with activity as students prepare snacks and treats. These experiences are helping them develop culinary skills while exploring new recipes, each attempt adds to their growing confidence and creativity!
Friendly Reminders
Avenues Mall Trip – December 8
If you’re sending money for this trip, please place it in an envelope labeled with your child’s name and ask them to give it to dorm staff.
School Food Drive
Thank you to everyone who has already contributed! We’re still collecting items such as Stove Top stuffing, instant mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, canned yams, pumpkin pie filling, graham cracker crust pie shells, hot chocolate, evaporated milk, and canned vegetables. Your generosity makes a difference!
McLane Hall
Celebrating Gratitude
As we welcome November, our character focus for the month is gratitude. This season is a great opportunity to help our middle school boys reflect on what it means to be thankful and how to express appreciation in everyday life.
💛 Practicing Gratitude Daily
We continue to guide our students in showing kindness and respect through simple, meaningful actions:
Greeting others with a friendly “hello”
Holding doors open for peers and staff
Saying “thank you” and replying with “you’re welcome”
Acknowledging the efforts of others and expressing appreciation
These habits help build a culture of respect and gratitude that extends beyond the dorm.
🏆 House Points Celebration
Each quarter, we recognize students who demonstrate outstanding behavior in the dorm through cooperation, responsibility, and respect.
Congratulations to our Pod Champions for the 1st quarter:
Michel D.
Josiah B.
Gaius M.
Ezra G.
Colton G.
Diallo W.
Alexander B.
And a big shoutout to our Runners-Up:
Logan P.
Jordan S.
Branlin S.
Klyne H.
Felipe C.
Evan O.
Luke W.
We’re proud of all of you—keep up the great work!
🤝 High School Mentorship Program
Our mentorship program with high school students continues to be a valuable experience. Their visits to the dorm offer insight and encouragement, helping our middle schoolers learn about independence, responsible decision-making, and the importance of keeping their living space clean and organized.
🍽️ Thanksgiving Celebration – Thursday, November 14
The cafeteria provided a special Thanksgiving dinner last night. It’s a time to reflect on the many things we’re grateful for:
The nourishing meals we share
The strong relationships across campus
The education our students receive
The care and protection provided by our dedicated staff
And most importantly, the love and support of family—whether near or far
We look forward to celebrating together and reinforcing the values of gratitude and community.
🧥 Cold Weather & Thanksgiving Break Reminder
Parents: As the weather turns colder, please make sure your student returns to the dorm with appropriate warm clothing. This week brought some freezing temperatures, prompting us to bundle up in coats and pants. Along with warm clothes, please ensure your student has:
Adequate grooming supplies
Enough everyday clothing
A few snacks for the week
Also, a reminder that students will head home for Thanksgiving Break starting November 21. They will return to the dorm on Sunday, November 30, and day students will resume school on Monday, December 1.