It doesn’t seem possible that we are nearing the end of another school year, yet students are less than a month away from summer break. As I reflect upon the year, I feel compelled to share what a wonderful experience I’ve had being the principal of one of the finest middle schools in Kansas. The teachers are to be commended for their commitment to the students, the parents are to be commended for their commitment to our schools, and the students are to be commended for their commitment to the educational process. This group of students has demonstrated leadership, pride and sportsmanship in their academic and athletic endeavors, and has modeled citizenship and a commitment to their community through activities such as Mitten Tree, Holiday Food Drive, Pennies for Patients, and much more. This is due largely to the efforts of the parents and teachers, and I am honored to be part of such a caring, nurturing environment.

We still have a busy month ahead of us and welcome your attendance to many upcoming events, including our final recognition assembly on Friday, May 15. Also that day will be our annual school picnic followed by a school-wide talent show and the ever-popular yearbook signing party. Spring sports will be drawing to a close and the music department will host their final concerts. Please check the district calendar for these events. Also, May 4-8 is staff appreciation week. I encourage each of you to take a moment to thank your favorite teacher or staff member for his or her efforts. Encourage your students to do the same.

Our last day of school is Wednesday, May 20. Students will clean out lockers on Tuesday, May 19 and will not have access to their lockers the last day of school. The only items students need to bring on the last day are a pen and/or pencil and paper. In the past, this procedure has proven successful in preventing any major problems. Our goal is to have a safe, productive final day of school.

There will be a few new faces among our staff as some of those familiar to our building leave us. Emilee Moss, special education teacher, has accepted a position in another district. Joyce Williams, technology teacher, will be retiring at the end of the school year. She has taught in Goddard for the past nine years. Finally, Monte Jackson will also retire in May after dedicating the past 29 years of his career to the Goddard School District. All of these staff members will be greatly missed at Robert Goddard Middle School. We wish them all the best and thank them for all they have done for our students, school and district.  

On behalf of the faculty and staff at Robert Goddard Middle School, I would like to wish each of you a safe, relaxing summer.

It seems impossible that the school year is just about over.  As I reflect upon the year, it feels like just yesterday that we were conducting the new student orientation and staring at nervous seventh graders who didn’t seem sure they could adjust to life as middle school students.  These same students who lacked confidence at the beginning of the year have matured and will be positive role models for next year’s seventh grade class.

In addition to maturing, our students have also worked hard in the classroom this year. Two other groups are instrumental in making sure our kids are successful in the classroom:  our parents and staff members.  Their support and dedication along with hard work on the part of our students combine to provide our children with a quality education.   

Now that warmer weather is here, I would also like to remind the students and parents of the RGMS dress code.  Our dress code permits students to wear shorts as long as they reach mid thigh.  Short shorts are prohibited.  No mesh, see-through, halter, crop, low cut shirts or shirts that expose the midriff may be worn.  Spaghetti strap shirts may be worn as long as another shirt is underneath.  The dress code applies to all school related activities and sporting events.  Please help us by monitoring what your son or daughter wears to school.

Thank you again for an excellent school year.  I hope that each of you has a safe, enjoyable, and relaxing summer break.

MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of Robert Goddard Middle School, in partnership with parents and the community, is to provide a safe, positive learning environment in which all students:

• Experience a superior academic curriculum enhanced by a variety of extra-curricular activities.
• Apply knowledge acquired to reach their highest potential.
• Demonstrate behavior that is responsible, resourceful and respectful.
• Become productive citizens who will make positive contributions in the 21st century.