At Pizitz, we seek to find ways to measure our growth in both quantitative and qualitative ways. Test scores (such as ACAP & iReady), grades, discipline referrals, participation and attendance help us to look at the quantitative data of students' growth over time. Qualitative data helps us to measure growth in a positive student experience and character over time. We use feedback forms and small group opportunities with teachers, students, and staff to gain insight qualitatively. Recently, we shared student survey data with our students. We also had a panel of teachers and students share with the Leadership Vestavia Hills team who visited Pizitz. Here are a few quotes from the student panel that affirmed the good work at Pizitz:
We have different learning pathways for different classes...Being in the right environment is important because it brings out the best in you and builds your character.
Excellence isn't being the best, it is trying your personal best.
Family can be defined in many ways...Teachers don't just teach academics, they nurture, mentor and inspire!
What a gift to hear firsthand from our students about their experience. At the end of December, some of our teachers participated in what we call Shadow-a-Student Day. This is an experience for teachers to see the school day through the life of a middle schooler (and some of them even dressed like our students). Take a moment to watch the video below from the teachers about their experience in classrooms at Pizitz.
It's Not Too Late to Join!
We are excited to offer a parent book club for any Pizitz parent who is interested in taking a closer look at the book: The Anxious Generation.
Feel free to join us for one or all three book club meetings. If you don't have a copy of the book, we will have one for you to borrow. Don't have time to read, come and join in the conversation and learn from others. Fill out the Google Form here to share your interest and get more details. See the dates outlined in the graphic and on the form.
Scoliosis Screening
We will have our Scoliosis screenings during PE on February 27. Only those who return the form as a YES to screen will be screened. If you do not want your child screened you do not have to return a form. Paper copies will go home this week if you are unable to print the form at home. You may also email the form to me if that is easier. If there is a positive screen, you will receive a letter from me requesting that you follow up with your pediatrician. This letter does NOT state your student has scoliosis, just that you need to follow up.
Here is the link to Children's of Alabama Scoliosis information site and video.
Please email or text Nurse Nancy if you have any questions (Hennekern@vhcs.us or
205-936-1280).
Grub Club
The Counseling Department presents Grub Club! This is going to resemble a lunch and learn for each grade, but it is going to be over topics like time management, friendships, social skills, etc.
Our first Grub Club will be on Wednesday, January 22nd in the library and it will be on time management. Students are able to sign up through their grade level Google Classroom that each counselor has created. Students will get their lunch first and then go straight to the library for our session.
It Is Almost Time to Pitch-In!
We are so grateful for the collaborative efforts of our PTO and Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation who help support the work of the schools throughout the year. This year, PTO and Foundation have both provided our schools with thousands of dollars in school grants.
Next week (January 27-31) is our chance to pitch-in and give back to the Foundation. We will be collecting monies during carpool each morning next week. Next Monday, plan to wear your Rebel Gear! More info coming soon about each assigned day of the week.
Student Involvement
Career Day
Every year, we look forward to opening our school to LOTS of community members and parents who come to share with us about their careers. Students, we look forward to hosting the Career Day event at the end of the month on January 24. We will have an altered schedule on Friday.
Cheer Tryout Interest Meeting
There will be a Cheer Tryouts Interest Meeting on Monday, February 3rd at 5:30 p.m. in the lunchroom. Parents, if your child is interested in trying out for cheer, you will need to attend this meeting. Please email logsdone@vhcs.us if you have any questions. Go Pirates!
Gold Championship Track Meet
Congratulations to the Indoor Track & Field team for a top 7 finish at the Alabama Middle School Gold Championship last Thursday. The team had their best meet of the season and we are all proud of their competitive work. The following athletes scored for the team:
Abby Whyte - 2nd in Pole Vault
Ava Thompson - 5th in Pole Vault
Girls 4x200 Relay - 6th place with Abby Whyte, Brynlee Beckner, McKenzie Currie, Blayklie Nelson
Caroline Taylor - 7th in High Jump
Abigail Oliver - 8th in Long Jump
Colt Carson - 2nd in Pole Vault
Sam Shunnara - 5th in Pole Vault
Cooper Mitchell - 7th in Pole Vault
William Oglesby - 7th in High Jump
Hudson Hatchett - 8th in Pole Vault
Way to go, Pirates!
Outdoor Track & Field Interest Meeting
Attention 7th & 8th Graders:
Do you like to run? Do you like to jump? Do you like to throw things? Then Track & Field might be the sport for you!
There are 2 more informational meetings for the Outdoor Track & Field Team:
1. Tuesday, January 21, 8th period in the Library/Media Center
2. Monday, January 27 8th period in the Library/Media Center - for athletes in Winter Sports
Students must check in with their 8th period teacher first for attendance then come to the Library/Media Center.
Students must meet with Coach Williams before signing up for the team.
Outdoor Track & Field sign-up end Jan. 31.
Go Pirates!
Jordan Sonnenblick is visiting Pizitz!
Tuesday, February 11, Jordan Sonnenblick, author of Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pies, will be visiting Pizitz. He will speak to the entire school at a morning assembly, autograph copies of his books, and hold a writer's workshop in the afternoon. Be sure to bring your book(s) to school February 11 for him to autograph.
Calling All Poets!
Do you like to write poetry? Would you like your poem included in the Young American Poetry Digest? If so, stop by the library to find out more information and pick up an application! The deadline for entries is March 21, 2025.
First Priority
First Priority is a student-led, Christian organization that meets before school at Pizitz. We will meet this Wednesday, January 22nd at 7:25 in the choir room. Join us for prayer, devotions, worship, games and fellowship (AND donuts this week!).
If you are interested in being part of First Priority leadership or if you have questions, reach out to Mrs. Windle (windleh@vhcs.us).
Dance Class
The Pizitz dance class is accepting new students for the spring semester. In this class you will learn the basics of several different styles of dance.
Here are a few important things to know about the class class:
When/Where: Class meets on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 2:30 - 3:30 on the stage in the upper gym
Pick up: Starts promptly at 3:30. Students should be picked up in the 7th grade carpool loop
Dress: Students should dress in something they can comfortably dance and move in. They are welcome to change clothes before class if needed.
Shoes: You will need skin toned jazz shoes. Parents may purchase their own or Ms. Bostany can order them for you for $26.00.
Performance: Our class will perform in the Spring Showcase at Vestavia High School. Rehearsal will be May 7th and the show is May 8th.
Contact Ms. Bostany at bostanyk@vhcs.us to sign up or just stop by the upper gym during our class time.
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