Principal Snyder's Weekly Update

Good evening, Hugh Mercer Students and Families,

I hope everyone is enjoying the extended weekend and in observance of Veterans’ Day on Monday. Remember that school is closed tomorrow, Monday, November 11, and will reopen for normal school on Tuesday, November 12.

Reminders from last week

Thank you for helping Hugh Mercer increase its average daily attendance and thank you for helping to decrease student absences from school.

Please remember that school starts at 8:20am and that students arriving by car need to be dropped off before 8:20am.

Beginning, this Wednesday, November 13, please take a moment to make a suggestion for the Gladys West Elementary School Mascot.  The new elementary school will open in August 2025 and is looking for mascot suggestions.  The survey link can be found on our school and division websites. The last day to submit a mascot suggestion is Wednesday, November 20.

Instruction and Assessment

Interims for the second nine-week period were sent home on Friday, November 8. Please take time to review them with your child(ren) to see their efforts and learning at this point in the grading period.

Remediation and support for students not demonstrating proficiency on their grade level SOL standards and grade level skills has begun. Remediation and support are given during our intervention blocks during the day and during our after-school support sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Safety and Behaviors

Families, please encourage conversations about conflict resolution with your child(ren). HMES does not allow students to settle conflict by using hurtful words or physical touch. Integrity and empathy are essential skills for your child to have when dealing with conflict or social situations that may cause anxiety.

Our students are here to learn and prepare for their future, not to disrupt the classroom environment. I encourage you to review our Patriot Pride expectations with them, emphasizing what respectful behavior looks like in the classroom, cafeteria, hallways, and on the bus.

Upcoming Events:

  • November 11: School Not in Session (Veterans' Day)

  • November 12: Fall Picture Retakess

  • November 12 @ 5:30 PM: PTA Meeting @ HMES Library

  • November 26 @ 12:45: Early Dismissal

  • November 27-29:

    Thanksgiving Holiday Break

As always, we are looking forward to another productive and positive week ahead. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns. Your partnership is essential, and working together ensures the success of every Hugh Mercer student.

I hope you enjoy your evening and look forward to a wonderful week ahead.

Patriot PRIDE, always,

Mr. Snyder