Where do I go in the morning?

When the students arrive at 7:45, 6^th and 7^th graders report to the gymnasium and the 8^th graders report to the cafeteria. Students will be released to go to their lockers and then to their first period class at 8:00 a.m. If you are dropping off your student, please remember to do so at the rear enterance of the building, so as not to interfere with bus traffic.

What time does school begin?

The first bell rings at 8:00 a.m. and the second bell rings at 8:12 a.m.  By the second bell students must be in their designated 1^st period class or they are considered tardy.

How many periods each day?

Each student attends seven 40+ minute periods a day (Five academic and two specials). The last three periods of the day rotate.

Are the classes set up in “teams”?

6^th grade has two teams.  However, all specials and some classes have students from both teams.  7^th and 8^th grade has one team each.

Do the students eat lunch all together?

Lunches are broken up by grade. In other words all 6^th graders will be together in the cafeteria at the same time. The time will vary based on a lunch rotation.

How big are the lockers?

The lockers at WMS are small. Most students bring a lightweight jacket or sweatshirt and backpack that is not too bulky. Zipper style ring folder/organizers are not suggested as they take up too much locker space.

Do the 6^th graders interact with the upperclassmen?

WMS really tries to ensure the 6^th graders are secure. All classes for 6^th graders are on the 1^st floor except for specials. The interaction is limited so your student can adjust to the new environment.

What about parent involvement?

Just because your child is in middle school doesn’t mean you are not needed. Being involved in the WMS PTO is the BEST way to stay informed. However, the changes our students experience in the middle school environment are often felt by parents active in the elementary PTOs. Middle school PTO is more focused on supporting the teachers and staff in their efforts, assisting in building community and school spirit, and traditional teacher appreciation type events. Meetings are kept to an hour and many things are coordinated via electronic methods. If you have an email address, be sure to provide it to the PTO and LISTSERV to receive electronic notices throughout the year. The PTO email address is WickfordMIddlePTO@gmail.com.

What happens at dismissal?

At the end of the day students are released by grade and report to the front of the building. It is the student’s responsibility to “catch” their assigned bus. Parents may pick up students in the rear of the building as well. No note is required for parent pick up at regular dismissal time. Students are only allowed to ride their assigned bus. No bus passes will be issued for any other bus.

What if a student forgets a book or homework at school?

The school building remains open until 4. It is possible to return to the school to pick up a forgotten item. Students are encouraged to be responsible and make sure they take home needed items.

Do the students change clothes for PE?

Yes, students are required to bring a change of clothes. Reminding them to bring them home to be washed is part of the middle school experience.

What should I bring the first day of school?

Bring a notebook and a pen and pencil. Also a positive attitude will make every day more productive.

What does a student need to do for early dismissal?

Students need to give a note to their 1^st period teacher so that it can be forwarded to the office. Information on the note should include approximate time of dismissal and who will be picking up the student.

What if a student is sick?

Please call the clinic at 268.6470 and let us know as early as possible.

What if a student is late to school?

Students who are late need to report to the office to receive a pass to class. Parents do not need to come in with the student or call to notify us that a student will be late.

What if a student forgets to bring a lunch or lunch money?

Students will be able to borrow money to buy lunch. However, students need to pay back the money the next day and remember to bring a lunch or lunch money on a regular basis every day.

Is there a “Lost and Found”?

There is a lost and found located in the cafeteria. Please encourage your student to check it for lost items. We donate a great many items to charity several times a year that have been left unclaimed.